Karen Docter's Blog, page 202

**Author Peek** Interview with Barbara Nickless

**Author Peek** Interview with

BARBARA NICKLESS!

INTRODUCING…Barbara.

Before we get started talking about your writing, tell us a little about yourself, where you’re from, what you do for a living (if you’re not a full-time writer) what hobbies you have, etc. Whatever you’d like to share to introduce yourself.

I was made in Japan, born in Guam and now live in Colorado where my full-time job is serving as staff to my rescue cat, Angel. When I’m not tending to Angel’s every need, I love to hike, cave, read, play piano and cook. Oh, and write novels.

1. What appeals to you about the genre that you write?

I’m a terrible plotter. But with a dead body (or ten), I have a central problem around which to build my story.

2. Are you a plotter or a pantser (one who writes “by the seat of your pants”)?

Yes.

Congratulations OCTOBER 2016 Blog Subscriber Giveaway Winner!!

Time to announce the OCTOBER 2016 #WINNER of my Monthly Blog Subscriber Giveaway, where special readers can win a read or coffee – two of my favorite things—on me!!!

And the winner is…

EILEEN DREYER…

Congratulations! You have won a $5 gift card from Amazon or Starbucks (your choice)! I’ll contact you privately to arrange for delivery of your gift.

Dear Readers,

If you missed this month’s giveaway, you can still subscribe to my blog at http://www.karendocter.com/ to get my blogs delivered straight to your email and be entered EACH MONTH into a random drawing for #FREE $5 gift card. On the first of each month, I’ll draw one name at www.random.org from all of my subscribers to receive the card.

More wonderful perks to subscribing to my blog? The blogs, when they appear in your Inbox, are pretty and easy to read. You can discover new authors, recipes and reader fun…and many of the authors sponsor GIVEAWAYS just for commenting!

If you’re only in the mood to receive my Special Release Alerts, you can subscribe to my mailing list instead. This is NOT a newsletter, but the occasional Karen/K.L. Docter news release.

Thanks for joining me on Karen’s Killer Book Bench!!

Karen/K.L.

To avoid SPAM filters, I will be announcing this random giveaway on the blog from now on because some have not responded to my emails about winning the drawing. If your name is announced and you don’t hear from me and can’t find an email in your SPAM folder, please contact me at kldocter@yahoo.com. Thank you!
Winners selected by random.org.

Congratulations Week 9-26-16 & 10-03-16 Blog Giveaway Winners!

 CONGRATULATIONS WEEK

9-26-16 & 10-03-16

BLOG GIVEAWAY WINNERS!!

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Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special  with Eileen Dreyer…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Eileen is giving away one (1) e-book copy of JAKE’S WAY to one lucky reader who comments on this Karen’s Killer Fixin’s blog. Thank you, Eileen, for sharing your story with us.

WINNER: GRETCHEN!!

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Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Adele Downs… 

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Adele is giving away a Starbucks card to one lucky reader who comments on her **Author Peek** Interview or Book Bench blogs. Thank you, Adele, for sharing your story and recipe with us.

WINNER: DEBRA GUYETTE!!

Readers Still Have a Chance to Win On The following Blogs…

33 hours left…Win one of three (3) Print Copies of DECEIVED (Dark Alliance Series Book One) from Kate SeRine.  http://www.karendocter.com/karens-killer-book-bench-safe-from-harm-protect-serve-book-2-by-kate-serine.html

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9 hours left…Win a $50 Amazon Gift Card and autographed print copies of HIS KIND OF COWGIRL, RAISING THE STAKES and UNDER AN ADIRONDACK SKY from KAREN ROCK. 

http://www.karendocter.com/karens-killer-book-bench-his-to-protect-uniformly-hot-by-karen-rock.html

~~~

32 days left…Win a Kindle Fire from CHARITY PARKERSON. 

http://www.karendocter.com/karens-killer-fixins-author-special-with-charity-parkerson-recipe-slow-cooker-reeses-peanut-butter-cup-swirl-cake.html 

~~~

EVERYONE’S A WINNER!!!

Don’t miss the SEASON OF THRILLS BOX SET for only $.99 !!

Five (5) full-length suspense/mystery/ thriller novels by Award-winning and Bestselling Authors JERRIE ALEXANDER, KIM CRESSWELL, K.L. DOCTER, RACHEL KENT and MARIAN LANOUETTE!! Thrills are always in season!!

Get your copy HERE:

Amazon –

Season of Thrills Box Set: 5 Mystery/Suspense/Thriller Novels by Bestselling Authors

KOBO – bit.ly/1VJAw3R

iTunes – apple.co/1huLmNC

B&N – bit.ly/1NvGZjL

chapters.indigo – bit.ly/1LmlQ9y

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All giveaway winners chosen by random.org from reader comments with the exception of Rafflecopter giveaways which are determined and announced offsite by publisher/authors. Thank you!

Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special** with Charity Parkerson #recipe ~ Slow-Cooker Reese’s™ Peanut Butter Cup Swirl Cake

Karen’s Killer Fixin’s

**AUTHOR SPECIAL**

with CHARITY PARKERSON!

Welcome to my Friday bonus feature called Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special**!! Today, in lieu of one of my own recipes, I’m going to introduce you to a new author who will share one of her favorite recipes. Not only will you and I occasionally learn how to make something new and delicious, but we’ll get a chance to check out some wonderful authors. Introducing author, CHARITY PARKERSON, and her favorite recipe: SLOW-COOKER REESE’S™ PEANUT BUTTER CUP SWIRL CAKE.

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UNSURPASSED

No Rival Book 1

By CHARITY PARKERSON

Blurb

For months, Aubree has been obsessed with two men—best friends, Max and Ryan. She’s resigned herself to having her desires be nothing more than a late night fantasy. When the pair invites her to a weekend party hosted by a famous MMA champion, Drew Alexander, she accepts without a qualm. She never expects the two men plan to make her secret longings into reality. Unfortunately, that’s only half their agenda. When Aubree learns the men’s true intentions, she turns to Drew for help.

Drew is unlike anyone she’s ever met. He’s fun and playful. Dark and brooding. He’s everything she’s been searching for rolled up in a delicious package. Unfortunately, Max and Ryan aren’t finished with her yet. Aubree has to choose—does she cling to the friendship she’s had with Max and Ryan, or risk everything on one man who could make all her dreams come true?

UNSURPASSED

No Rival Book 1

By CHARITY PARKERSON

EXCERPT

The blue of Aubree’s eyes twinkled as she made her confession. For a single moment out of time, Drew forgot where he was. “I commend your bravery for showing up. I’m sure it wasn’t an easy decision considering the theme.”

Aubree’s smile turned into a sad one, making Drew regret the words. Aubree’s father had been well known and respected in the fighting world. News of the car accident on Christmas day that claimed the lives of both Aubree’s parents had moved quickly through the MMA gossip mill. Drew didn’t want to dampen the mood, but he’d been moved to say something. Unfortunately, now he was almost desperate to bring the happiness back into her eyes.

“Just think,” he said, allowing a bit of devilry to show. “If you hadn’t shown up this weekend, you wouldn’t have met me. That would’ve been a real shame for you.”

Aubree narrowed her eyes, but her grin gave her away. She was ready to play along. “How do you figure?”

“You would’ve missed your chance to seduce me, and although I’m not easy, I’m totally worth every moment.”

Her teeth sank into her bottom lip. Drew could see her fighting back her laughter even as her eyes danced with it. He wasn’t content to let it stand there. “You’d better get started.” He made a show of looking at his watch. “I don’t know what time you usually go to bed, but I’ve only got a few hours left in me. Wine me, dine me,” he paused and smiled roguishly. “Well, you know the rest.”

Aubree threw back her head laughing loudly, snagging the attention of everyone nearby. She covered her mouth when several people turned in their direction. Her eyes swam with tears as she stared at him accusingly. With a chuckle, he held his hand out to her, pouring on the charm. “I would be honored if you would spend some time with me this evening. I can’t promise to behave, but as I said, I am worth it. Not to mention, I’m so good when I’m being bad.”

About Author Charity Parkerson… 

Charity Parkerson is an award winning and multi-published author with several companies. Born with no filter from her brain to her mouth, she decided to take this odd quirk and insert it in her characters. 

*2015 Readers’ Favorite Award Winner
*Winner of 2, 2014 Readers’ Favorite Awards
*2015 Passionate Plume Award Finalist 
*2013 Readers’ Favorite Award Winner
*2013 Reviewers’ Choice Award Winner
*2012 ARRA Finalist for Favorite Paranormal Romance
*Five-time winner of The Mistress of the Darkpath

~~~

Links to Charity’s Website, Books, & Social Media:

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2dBYAZw

Website: charityparkerson.com
Facebook: facebook.com/authorCharityParkerson
facebook.com/TheMenofSin
Twitter: twitter.com/CharityParkerso

I hope you enjoy the recipe Charity is sharing today on Karen’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy eating!

Karen

P.S. We’re at 280 recipes and counting with this posting. Hope you find some recipes you like. If this is your first visit, please check out past blogs for more Killer Fixin’s. In the right hand column menu, you can even look up past recipes by type. i.e. Desserts, Breads, Beef, Chicken, Soups, Author Specials, etc.

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Note from Charity: I’m not much of a cook, but I love making desserts. One of my favorites is Crock Pot cake. I can’t claim it as my own. It’s a Betty Crocker recipe which can be found online here.

SLOW-COOKER REESE’S™ PEANUT BUTTER CUP SWIRL CAKE

[Recipe courtesy of Betty Crocker here]

Ingredients:

1 box Betty Crocker™ SuperMoist™ yellow cake mix

1 cup water

3 eggs

½ cup creamy peanut butter

1/3 cup butter, softened

½ cup chocolate-flavored syrup

Toppings:

3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter

2 to 3 tablespoons milk

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons chocolate-flavored syrup

20 Reese’s™ peanut butter cups miniatures, unwrapped and cut in half

Directions:

1 Spray a 5- to 6-quart oval slow cooker with cooking spray. In large bowl, beat cake mix, water, eggs, 1/2 cup peanut butter and the butter with electric mixer on low 30 speed seconds, then on medium speed 2 minutes, scraping bowl.
2 Remove 2/3 cup of the batter to medium bowl; stir in 1/2 cup chocolate syrup to make chocolate fudge batter.
3 Spoon 1/2 of the peanut butter batter into the slow cooker, followed by all of the chocolate fudge batter. Top with remaining peanut butter batter. Swirl with a knife in a circular motion.
4 Cover; cook on High heat setting 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center of loaf comes out clean. Turn off slow cooker; uncover, and remove ceramic base from cooker to cooling rack. Let cool 15 minutes.
5 In medium bowl, beat 3 tablespoons peanut butter and 2 tablespoons milk with whisk until smooth. Add powdered sugar; mix until smooth. If necessary, gradually add additional 1 tablespoon milk until glaze is desired consistency. Spread peanut butter glaze over cake; drizzle with the chocolate syrup. Sprinkle peanut butter cups over top of cake.

~~~

Thanks, Charity, for sharing your book and favorite recipe with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Killing Thyme (Spice Shop Mystery #3) by Leslie Budewitz

 KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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KILLING THYME

A Spice Shop Mystery Book 3

BY LESLIE BUDEWITZ

Blurb

In Seattle’s Pike Place Market, Spice Shop owner Pepper Reece is savoring her business success, but soon finds her plans disrupted by a killer in the latest from the national bestselling author of Guilty as Cinnamon.

Pepper Reece’s to-do list is longer than the shopping list for a five-course dinner, as she conjures up spice blends bursting with seasonal flavor, soothes nervous brides fretting over the gift registry, and crosses her fingers for a rave review from a sharp-tongued food critic. Add to the mix a welcome visit from her mother, Lena, and she’s got the perfect recipe for a busy summer garnished with a dash of fun.

While browsing in the artists’ stalls, Pepper and Lena drool over stunning pottery made by a Market newcomer. But when Lena recognizes the potter, Bonnie Clay, as an old friend who disappeared years ago, the afternoon turns sour. To Pepper’s surprise, Bonnie seems intimately connected to her family’s past. After Bonnie is murdered only days later, Pepper is determined to uncover the truth. But as Pepper roots out long-buried secrets, will she be digging her own grave?

KILLING THYME

A Spice Shop Mystery Book 3

BY LESLIE BUDEWITZ

Excerpt

Chapter One

“Why is it called a salt pig?” Matt said. “Is that like salt pork?”

“No, silly. Salt pork is pork belly that’s cured by salting instead of smoking. Think bacon. My grandmother used it to flavor her Sunday pork and beans.” Cayenne’s dark eyes flickered open and shut in remembered rapture, long lashes brushing her high cheekbones.

The banter between the Spice Shop’s newest employees put a smile in my heart. No last-minute desperation hires this time. He knows retail; she knows food. And as their boss, I knew within days of hiring them that they would be great additions to the Pike Place Market, Seattle’s heart, soul, and stomach.

But Matt’s cocked head and half squint said her explanation hadn’t cleared up the muddle over the classic salt container.

“Some sources say it looks like a pig’s back end if you stand it sideways on its head.” Cayenne used a particularly porcine model-smooth, glossy, and pinky-beige-to demonstrate. “But I’ve also heard that pig is an ancient Scottish word for a clay pot.”

“That works for me.” Roundish, sixtyish, sporting the short, dark hair of an Italian pixie, Sandra lifted the lid off a celadon green oval jar and mimed scooping out salt with two fingers. “This one’s good. Lets you get a grip on the stuff.”

“That’s another thing I don’t get,” Matt said. He slid into the mixing nook beside the rest of us. Seeing the crew gathered for our Wednesday morning staff meeting, each sipping coffee or our custom-blended spice tea, a box of pastries open before us, gave me the satisfaction of a mother hen.

After all that upheaval . . . I perished the thought. As if he read my mind from where he lay under the table, Arf rested his muzzle on my knee. I rubbed a thumb on the magic spot on his forehead.

“A pinch is really a guess. Why not measure?” Matt continued. “And what about hygiene?”

“You measure with your eyes and your mouth,” Sandra said. “A recipe may look precise, but it’s a guideline. You can’t know how much salt your soup needs until you taste it. Is your broth salty? Are your carrots and onions on the sweet side? You taste and balance.”

“Except when you’re baking,” I said, raising a finger. “Then you’re talking chemical reactions. But with herbs and spices, you have more freedom.”

“And cooks are trained to wash their hands a lot.” Cayenne set the salt pig back in the weathered wooden box and withdrew a rounded container. The lower half was glazed a rich, blue-streaked mahogany, the upper a cinnamon-speckled oatmeal. A hand-carved wooden spoon poked out of the almond-shaped opening in front. “Isn’t this wonderful, Pepper? The potter’s new to the Market.”

She handed me the earthenware pig. The opening allows easy access while keeping the salt free of kitchen dirt and drips. Salt is hydrophilic, so an unglazed interior absorbs moisture and keeps the salt from clumping. Nice, in Seattle’s damp clime.

“It’s food safe, obviously, and dishwasher safe,” Cayenne said.

“Are you her new sales rep?” Matt gibed.

“No. I just love her work, and I think we should carry it.”

“Wish we could. But if she sells through us, she’ll lose her Market permit. And the artists’ tables are a huge draw-she’ll do better on her own.”

Cayenne opened her mouth to protest, but I cut her off. “Hey, I don’t make the rules.” I set down the pig and reached for the potter’s card. “Bonnie Clay-Potter-Functional Sculpture. Oh, too funny.”

Blank faces stared at me. “Continuing the Scottish theme,” I said, “`bonnie’ means pretty or attractive. So, her name translates to Pretty Pots.”

“Maybe she named herself,” Reed ventured. “Because of her work.”

Sandra snorted. “Ya think?”

She and Reed had come with the shop when I bought it nearly two years ago, and despite their differences in age and temperament, she treats him like a favorite puppy. Most days. Now, she ignored the wounded look on his gentle features, and he hunched over his tea, a lock of black hair flopping onto his forehead.

“Sorry, Cayenne,” I said. “Good find, but no go. I’ll take the samples back and talk to her.” We turned our attention to the long list of daily tasks. We’d all pitched in to train the newcomers while unpacking shipments, refilling hundreds of jars and canisters holding spices from around the world, making deliveries to restaurants, yada yada. Plus blending our own tea and spice mixes fresh every week. After years working all variety of retail, Matt had grasped our customer-first philosophy from the get-go. Cayenne oozes natural charm and has an encyclopedic knowledge of food. But she occasionally needs a reminder that no matter how busy she is sweeping up spilled thyme, the customer is never an interruption.

“Were you able to solve that glitch in the wedding registry software?” I asked Reed.

He opened his mouth, but Sandra spoke first. “There was no glitch. The bride has the same personality as her mother. The registry shows no gifts purchased because she has no friends.”

I suppressed a smile. The bridal mother had stomped in yesterday afternoon spewing complaints. We had wrongfully delayed sending her beloved daughter any gifts; our system bordered on false advertising, if not fraud; and we were not fit to kiss the hem of the most beautiful bride in Seattle’s pearl-encrusted train. “Send the bride our thyme gift box as a thank-you for registering.”

A perennial best seller, thyme was also our featured Spice of the Month. By mid-June, most Seattle gardeners are deep into maintenance mode, so we’d arranged the last few seedlings in the center of our main display table. The slightest movement of air sent pleasant grassy notes swirling through the shop.

“Anything else?” Three bright-eyed heads shook “no.” “Great. Let’s have a spicy day.”

The fourth head stayed bowed, and its owner stayed put. I waited until the others had slid out of the booth and started their morning routine. “What’s up?”

A long silence. “I hate women who bawl at work.”

Meet Author Leslie Budewitz … 

Malice 2014 teapot & me

Leslie Budewitz blends her passion for food, great mysteries, and the Northwest in two cozy mystery series. KILLING THYME, her third Spice Shop Mystery, set in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, is due on October 4. DEATH AL DENTE, first in the Food Lovers’ Village Mysteries, set in Jewel Bay, Montana, won the 2013 Agatha Award for Best First Novel. The immediate past president of Sisters in Crime, she lives and cooks in NW Montana.

~~~

Links to Leslie’s website, blog, books, etc.

Find her online at www.LeslieBudewitz.com and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/LeslieBudewitzAuthor

Available at:

IndieBound

Barnes and Noble

Amazon

Fact and Fiction

~~~

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**:  Leslie will give away one signed paperback copy of KILLING THYME (U.S. or Canada addresses only) to one lucky reader who comments on her Book Bench blog. Thanks, Leslie, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Luxury Model Wife by Adele Downs

 KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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LUXURY MODEL WIFE

BY ADELE DOWNS

Blurb

Antiques expert Steve Carlson must face the mistakes of his past to discover a treasure he never imagined: the heart of a vulnerable yet determined widow.

TRUE RICHES

Twenty-eight-year-old Victoria Van Orr just lost everything. With the death of her billionaire husband went his mature patience and warm encouragement; and the veneer of acceptance from everyone else. His friends and colleagues now ignore Victoria, and if his son succeeds she just might be forced back to the streets upon which she was raised. But money was never her goal. All she wants is love. Real love.

Antiques expert Steve Carlson knows the value of everything. Pain and betrayal? Those he gave away–and now they’re coming back. His worst mistakes were all with one man: an old friend, the son of a father figure, now the stepchild of a beautiful young widow who wants Steve to help her auction off the family estate. To help Victoria, Steve must face his past and become a better man. To find true love, he will discover her surprisingly pure heart, vulnerable yet determined. And beyond price.

LUXURY MODEL WIFE

BY ADELE DOWNS

Excerpt

Steve tilted his head, his bright blue eyes sizing her up. “Sorry, but I gotta’ ask. Do you always talk like that?”

Victoria felt her cheeks warm. “Whatever do you mean?”

“There.” He studied her again with not-so-subtle curiosity. “You sounded like your late husband James just now. Funny, you don’t seem like the snooty type to me. More like a regular girl.”

His comment touched a nerve like hot wires to stripped cable. Victoria bit back a retort while blood rushed through her ears. She closed her eyes against the sound to clear her head. Twenty-eight was hardly a girl, and she was damn tired of defending her right to be a Van Orr.

For five years she’d tried and failed to fit into the privileged world of her older husband—learning couture, keeping her posture as straight as a modeling school graduate, rounding her O’s when she spoke —apparently fooling no one on either side of the social spectrum in the process.

Defeat swept over her and her shoulders sagged beneath five-thousand dollar silk and linen. No matter how hard she tried, she’d forever be exposed as the abandoned kid who’d grown-up in shelters.

Strange though… when she opened her eyes and returned them to Steve Carlson’s handsome face, she sensed his remark was meant as a compliment and not a reminder that she lacked James’s pedigree. It was like he saw her.

Her. Not James’s luxury-model second wife.

Still, his manners were disgusting. Even store-owner-janitors should know how to behave. Snooty type. Who was he to say that to her? She was a potential client for heaven’s sake.

Victoria stood to leave. She was sick and tired of people voicing their opinions about her and her late husband’s disparate lineage. She’d been bullied and belittled since the day she’d become engaged. “You don’t know me well enough to analyze me, Mr. Carlson.” She kept the annoyance out of her reprimand. The rich had taught her that cool distain wounded more deeply than anger.

Steve grimaced, rubbed his jaw, and then stood to face her, his expression sheepish. He waved her back to her seat. “Please. I’m sorry I offended you. I’m a friend. Really. We’ve gotten off on the wrong foot.”

He ran a hand through his hair and his bicep bulged with the movement. Victoria’s gaze followed the lines and curves of sinew and muscle and took in the military tattoo peeking from the hem of his tee shirt.

She resisted the images that teased her dormant libido, and brought her eyes back to his face. Damn. That didn’t help. Why did this annoying man have to be so good-looking? Her attraction to him only made her feel guilty, like she’d betrayed James’s memory. Widowhood came with a unique set of baggage.

Meet Author Adele Downs … 

Adele Downs is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than 20 romance titles, including those written under another pen name, and a former journalist with hundreds of articles to her credit. When not writing in her home office in rural Pennsylvania, she can be found reading a book on the nearest beach, taking photographs, or riding in her convertible.

 

~~~

Links to Adele’s website, blog, books, etc.

Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Adele-Downs/e/B00G1RRS60

Website: http://adeledowns.com

Blog: https://adeledowns.wordpress.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/authoradeledowns

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Adele_Downs

Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/httpwwwgoodreadscomAdeleDowns

~~~

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**:  Adele is giving away a Starbucks card to one lucky reader who comments on her **Author Peek** Interview or Book Bench blogs.  Be sure to Like/Follow her Amazon Author Central page at https://www.amazon.com/Adele-Downs/e/B00G1RRS60/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1475507689&sr=8-1. Thanks, Adele, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: His to Protect (Uniformly Hot!) by Karen Rock

 KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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HIS TO PROTECT

Uniformly Hot!

BY KAREN ROCK

Blurb

Subject: Lt. Commander Mark Sampson

Mission: Keep his eyes on the skies…despite one sexy distraction! 

There are things a man can never undo. For Coast Guard search and rescue pilot Mark Sampson, it was the agonizing decision that cost him a teammate—and his faith in himself. But an unbelievably sexy blonde on a secluded beach may help him forget…if only for a night.

Cassie Rowe needed a distraction—and, boy, did she get one! How was she to know the brooding stranger who rocked her world was the pilot who’d left her brother to die? And now they’re on the same mission. She should hate him. But she can’t fight the storm of desire threatening to pull them under…

HIS TO PROTECT

Uniformly Hot!

BY KAREN ROCK

Excerpt

While the crowd responded to the DJ’s provocation, Mark flipped his hand so he was holding Cassie’s.

“So what’s that last category?” he pressed.

He squinted at her until her cheeks pinked and she squirmed. He wanted to haul her out of the bar and back to his room, where he could lose himself in that incredible body and mind-numbing sex.

But even if he was the type for casual hookups, something about her didn’t speak of one-night stands… despite her flirting. Maybe it was the pain tucked in the corners of her laughing eyes, the way her smiles slid off her face too fast, as if they rarely stuck. He was having a tough time reading her.

“It’s one I’m not prepared to judge just yet.” Her words were breathless.

He could feel the thrum of her pulse where he held her hand, the pace a rapid tattoo of nerves or excitement. Or something more.

“Now I’m even more curious.” He slid a thumb along the heart of her palm and imagined himself touching other parts of her that same way. With slow, lazy circles. “You can at least tell me what you would be critiquing.”

Her blues met and held his. No innocence there now. Only heat and daring.

“Sexual prowess.” She drew out the words like a long caress.

His whole body hardened like new-forged steel and just as hot.

They stared at each other across the table, the noisy world of the bar full of lap dancers not even a blip on his radar. He breathed in when Cassie exhaled, their shared air as hot as any kiss he’d ever tasted.

“You ready to cut out of here?” he asked, his voice low and his restraint disappearing.

He wanted nothing more than to drive her wild and fill her head with enough sexy dreams to satisfy her for the rest of the night. He tossed bills on the table, never taking his eyes off her.

She squeezed his hand. “I thought you’d never ask.”

Meet Author Karen Rock … 

Award-winning author Karen Rock is both sweet and spicy—at least when it comes to her writing! The author of both YA and adult contemporary books writes red-hot novels for Harlequin Blaze and small-town romances for Harlequin Heartwarming. A strong believer in Happily-Ever-After, Karen loves creating unforgettable stories that leave her readers with a smile.

She enjoys returning to her teaching roots when speaking at regional and national writing conferences and interacting with other writers. She has a Master of Fine Arts in English and has continued to learn and grow professionally through her work with YA co-author, fellow romance author, friend and sister-in-law, Joanne Rock.

When she’s not writing, Karen is an avid reader who’s typically immersed in three different books at a time, all in different genres. She also loves cooking her grandmother’s Italian recipes, baking, Christmas (no need to specify—she loves every bit of it), and having the Adirondack Park wilderness as her backyard, where she lives with her husband, daughter, dog and cat who keep her life interesting and complete.. 

~~~

Links to Karen’s website, blog, books, etc.

Link to Follow Tour:

http://www.tastybooktours.com/2016/08/his-to-protect-uniformly-hot-by-karen.html

Goodreads Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31140667-his-to-protect

Buy Links:    

Amazon | B & N | Google | iTunes | Kobo | Audio

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

~~~

Thanks, Karen, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Safe From Harm (Protect & Serve Book 2) by Kate SeRine

 KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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SAFE FROM HARM

Protect & Serve #2

BY KATE SeRINE

Blurb

There’s something about prosecuting attorney Elle McCoy that Deputy Gabe Dawson just can’t get enough of. Even with Gabe’s family legacy in law enforcement and promising career, Elle’s smart, sassy rejection of all his charm makes Gabe want her even more.

But Gabe’s confidence is shaken when he’s shot on the steps of the courthouse, protecting Elle from a terrorist intent on revenge. Worse, Elle isn’t out of danger yet. But as they race to counter the terrorist’s next move, Gabe determines to prove to Elle—and himself—that he’s a man worthy of her.

SAFE FROM HARM

Protect & Serve #2

BY KATE SeRINE

Excerpt

Gabe started awake, throwing off the covers and bolting to his feet. Pain shot up and down his leg as soon as he made contact with the floor, making him groan through clenched teeth and follow it up with a juicy curse.

“Motherfu—”

“I’ll just come back later.”

His gaze shot up to see Elle standing inside the doorway, gorgeous eyes wide, her peaches-and-cream skin flushed an alluring shade of pink that deepened as he gaped at her. When she dropped her gaze, turning first left, then right, as if forgetting where the door was, he suddenly realized his bare ass was hanging out of the back of his hospital gown giving her quite an eyeful.

“No, that’s okay,” he said in a rush. “Come on in.”

He straightened quickly, wincing with the sudden movement, belatedly realizing his wound apparently hadn’t affected other areas of his anatomy and he was sporting some serious morning wood, which was pitching one helluva tent beneath the thin cotton gown.

He cursed again and dropped down on the bed, throwing the blanket over his lower body in one quick motion and trying unsuccessfully to suppress another groan. He squeezed his eyes shut for a second until the wave of agony passed. When he opened them again, he was surprised to see Elle standing before him, her gaze searching his face.

“Are you okay?” she asked, her hand coming up to cup his jaw. The gentle warmth of her palm sent a chill through him, making him shudder. Her hand immediately dropped away at the response, mistakenly thinking her touch was unwanted when, in fact, he desperately he craved it. “I’ll get the nurse.”

When she reached for the call button hanging near the head of the bed, he gently grasped her wrist and drew her hand away. “Leave it. I’m fine.”

She swallowed and dropped her gaze briefly to their hands, looking like she wanted to bolt and rid herself of his touch. He almost released her, saddened that she found the contact so unwanted. But then he felt her pulse quicken beneath his fingertips.

So maybe it wasn’t revulsion she was feeling after all…

When her gaze drifted back up to his, he decided to test his new theory and let his thumb slowly smooth over her skin. “How are you?” he asked softly.

She gave him a tremulous smile and, God help him, he damned near dragged her into his arms and kissed her. But he managed to restrain himself as she said, “Shaken up a bit. But no lasting harm.”

He narrowed his eyes at that, not believing her for a second. “You sure about that, honey?”

“I’ll be okay,” she assured him, nodding a little, her lips pressed together as if she was trying to convince herself of the truth of her words. “It’s just…” She sighed. “I almost died yesterday.”

There it was. The truth they both needed to face. Elle was no fool. Hell, she was brilliant as far as he was concerned. She must’ve known as certainly as he did how close they’d both come to losing their lives the previous day. So there was no denying her words, no use trying to convince her she was mistaken.

“Yeah,” he said, still caressing her pulse point. “You sleep at all last night?”

She shook her head, her eyes beginning to glisten with unshed tears. “No. All I could see when I closed my eyes was—” Her words broke off when her voice hitched with emotion.

Ah hell.

He slipped his hand into the thick waves of hair at the base of her neck and pulled her toward him. Every inch of him—especially those hidden under the blanket—longed to kiss her, but at the last moment, he pressed his lips to her forehead in a lingering kiss.

He didn’t know what to say to make her feel better. It wasn’t like that time when Todd Jenkins had broken up with her a week before the homecoming dance and Gabe had hinted to Chris that maybe he should ask her. Or the time her biggest rival was made editor of the school yearbook and he’d broken into her locker before school to leave her flowers (anonymously, of course). Or the time he’d given Aaron Maguire a fat lip when that asshole had gotten a little grabby with Elle in spite of her saying no loud and clear. Or the time he’d driven two hours to the college she was attending to fix her car on the sly because her aunt Charlotte had mentioned that it wasn’t running and Elle refused to ask for the money to fix it.

He’d been secretly looking out for Elle for as long as he had known her, never letting on that he was the one, never asking for anything in return. Knowing she was safe and happy was enough. But he was at a loss on how to comfort her this time, when they were very literally face to face.

He’d never known how to deal with a woman when she was upset. He supposed he got that from his father, who wasn’t exactly the most nurturing guy. Normally, Gabe bailed when things got serious enough with a woman that she was actually sharing emotions. Okay, to be honest, he usually bailed way before that. But seeing Elle looking lost and afraid brought out a protective urge in him that he’d never really experienced with anyone else—not to this extent, anyway.

He could lie and say she’d be fine in a few days. But the truth was, it might be something that haunted her far longer. God knew he had plenty of nightmares—some of them walked and talked and dropped by for a visit in his hospital room in the middle of the night.

Elle’s hand came up to rest lightly on his chest, and he felt her breath quicken as tension began to build in the air between them. “Thank you for saving my life,” she whispered. She pulled back enough that their faces were just inches apart. And for a moment, he thought she might actually kiss him. The look in her eyes told him she was considering it, which shocked the hell out of him…

Meet Author Kate SeRine … 

Kate SeRine (pronounced “serene”) is a hopeless romantic who firmly believes in true love that lasts forever. So it’s no surprise that when she began writing her own stories, Kate vowed her characters would always have a happily ever after.

Kate lives in a smallish, quintessentially Midwestern town with her husband and two sons, who share her love of storytelling. She never tires of creating new worlds to share and is even now working on her next project—probably while consuming way too much coffee.

Kate is also the author of the award-winning Transplanted Tales paranormal romance series and the Protect & Serve romantic suspense series.

Connect with Kate at www.kateserine.com, Facebook.com/kateserine, or on Twitter @KateSeRine.

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Links to Kate’s website, blog, books, etc.

Link to Follow Blast:

http://www.tastybooktours.com/2016/08/safe-from-harm-protect-and-serve-2-by.html

Goodreads Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26810997-safe-from-harm

Goodreads Series Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/series/150554-protect-and-serve 

Buy Links:     Amazon | B & N | Google | iTunes | Kobo

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

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Thanks, Kate, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

**Author Peek** Interview with Adele

**Author Peek** Interview with

ADELE DOWNS!

INTRODUCING…Adele Downs.

Before we get started talking about your writing, tell us a little about yourself, where you’re from, what you do for a living (if you’re not a full-time writer) what hobbies you have, etc.

Thanks so much for inviting me to visit with you. It’s a pleasure to be here.

When I’m not writing or reading I love to take photographs and post them on my blog for my subscribers. During down time I watch movies or binge-watch TV shows on Netflix. I’m also a beach lover and divide my time between the shores of Delaware and my home in southeastern Pennsylvania. My writing schedule stays mostly the same wherever I am, and I take my laptop and cameras with me wherever I go.

1. What genre(s) do you write and why?

I write contemporary romance in all heat levels from sweet to scorching, depending on the characters and the story. A few of my books set in the modern world also have light paranormal elements. I like to think there’s a touch of magic in the world, if we know where to look, and sometimes these themes pop up in my books.

2.  If you were to choose one superpower, what would it be?

To be like Superman. I’ve often said I wished the world had a real Superman to depend on.

3. Do you ever get stuck when you’re writing a book? What do you do to get “unstuck”?

Whenever I get stuck on a plot point I take a walk, a shower, or sleep on it. The answer to the problem always arrives after I’ve relaxed and rested.

4. What is your least favorite part of writing?

My least favorite is waiting for my editor to send the contract, and then her revision letter, and then wait for production to begin, and then anticipate release day. In publishing, we do lots of waiting. That’s why it’s best to start working on another book immediately after a sale, if not before, so that we’re always busy with new projects.

5. If we came to your house for dinner, what would you prepare for us?

If you’re a seafood lover, I’d make homemade crab cakes or seafood bisque. If beef is more to your liking, I’d make beef stew with organic meat and vegetables and a side of warm, crunchy bread with real Irish butter. Those are my family’s favorites.

6. What is your typical day like?

I’m not an especially early riser—8AM is typical for me. Coffee is first on my To-Do list, and then I do a quick check through my email in case there’s something important that can’t wait until later. I get dressed, head to my office, and write until 1PM. After lunch I write again until dinnertime. In the evenings I work on publicity and my blog. I do take time off to go to the beach or have lunch with friends, but somehow, the books always get done.

7. What is most difficult for you to write?  Characters, conflict or emotions? Why?

I’m learning with each book to dig deeper into my characters’ emotions and to bring my settings to life. Authors get better with each book, if we’re doing it right.

8.  How likely are the people you meet going to end up in your next book?

Funny you should ask that. I’ve used almost everyone in my family and a few of my friends’ names in my books. It’s my way of giving them a hug.

9.  Tell us about your hero. Give us one of his strengths and one of his weaknesses.

Is it okay to say I love my hero, Steve Carlson? To me, he’s the perfect blend of physical and emotional strength and compassion. He has a wicked temper, but he’s level-headed enough to keep it under control—most of the time—unless someone messes with the woman he loves, Victoria Van Orr. Then, watch out. Steve battles mostly with himself and his guilty conscience over past wrongs, but more than makes up for his failings with his empathy and generous heart.

10. Tell us about your next book & when is it being published?

My novel LUXURY MODEL WIFE released September 20. Here’s a little about the story:

Antiques expert Steve Carlson must face the mistakes of his past to discover a treasure he never imagined: the heart of a vulnerable yet determined widow.

TRUE RICHES

Twenty-eight-year-old Victoria Van Orr just lost everything. With the death of her billionaire husband went his mature patience and warm encouragement; and the veneer of acceptance from everyone else. His friends and colleagues now ignore Victoria, and if his son succeeds she just might be forced back to the streets upon which she was raised. But money was never her goal. All she wants is love. Real love.

Antiques expert Steve Carlson knows the value of everything. Pain and betrayal? Those he gave away–and now they’re coming back. His worst mistakes were all with one man: an old friend, the son of a father figure, now the stepchild of a beautiful young widow who wants Steve to help her auction off the family estate. To help Victoria, Steve must face his past and become a better man. To find true love, he will discover her surprisingly pure heart, vulnerable yet determined. And beyond price

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Be sure to come back to read more about Adele and LUXURY MODEL WIFE,  on Wednesday’s Karen’s Killer Book Bench. Happy Reading!

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Links to Adele’s website, blog, books, etc.

Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Adele-Downs/e/B00G1RRS60

Website: http://adeledowns.com

Blog: https://adeledowns.wordpress.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/authoradeledowns

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Adele_Downs

Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/httpwwwgoodreadscomAdeleDowns

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Thanks, Wendy, for sharing your books with us today.

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special** with Eileen Dreyer #recipe ~ Cowboy Chili

Karen’s Killer Fixin’s

**AUTHOR SPECIAL**

with EILEEN DREYER!

Welcome to my Friday bonus feature called Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special**!! Today, in lieu of one of my own recipes, I’m going to introduce you to a new author who will share one of her favorite recipes. Not only will you and I occasionally learn how to make something new and delicious, but we’ll get a chance to check out some wonderful authors. Introducing author, EILEEN DREYER, and her favorite recipe for COWBOY CHILI.

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JAKE’S WAY

Wounded Heroes Collection Book 1

By EILEEN DREYER w/a KATHLEEN KORBEL

Blurb

Everybody knows Jake Kendall. Jake is a success story. Orphaned early, he did such a good job turning around a failing Wyoming horse ranch, he put his three siblings through school and gained a nationwide reputation.

Amanda Marlow is the epitome of an east coast author: bright, funny, curious. When she shows up at a cabin on Jake’s land to research a book, she threatens Jake’s entire world. She represents everything he longs for: freedom, exploration, learning. But Jake has a secret that could bring his entire life tumbling down. And if he lets Amanda close, she could expose it.

“A beautifully compelling story of love” Rendezvous

JAKE’S WAY

Wounded Heroes Collection Book 1

By EILEEN DREYER w/a KATHLEEN KORBEL

EXCERPT

“This is private property,” Jake taunted, knowing damn well that his voice was too harsh. He couldn’t help it. His hands shook. His belly was on fire. He wanted her so badly that if he weren’t careful, he’d take her right there in the doorway.

She smiled, and he was lost. “I know,” she answered. “I figured I’d negotiate with the owner to stay just a little while longer.”

“Negotiate?”

Amanda stepped forward. “Yes,” she answered, her voice slowing, thickening like warm honey. “I thought we could talk a little, and maybe share something to drink.”

Jake managed to raise an eyebrow. “Are you talking bribes here, woman?”

Her smile widened, and her eyes darkened. “If that’s what you want to call it.”

About Author Eileen Dreyer… 

New York Times Bestselling, award-winning author Eileen Dreyer has published 40 novels and 10 short stories under her name and that of her evil twin, Kathleen Korbel in contemporary romance, paranormal romance, historical romance, romantic suspense, mystery and medical forensic suspense. A proud member of RWA’s Hall of FAME, she also has numerous awards from RT BookLovers and an Anthony nomination for mystery. She is now focusing on what she calls historic romantic adventure in her DRAKE’S RAKES series. A native of St. Louis, she still lives there with her family. She has animals but refuses to subject them to the limelight.

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Links to Eileen’s Website, Books, & Social Media:

Available for Pre-Order on Amazon now, available 10/6/16!

https://goo.gl/cckwvO

Website: http://eileendreyer.com/

I hope you enjoy the recipe Eileen is sharing today on Karen’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy eating!

Karen

P.S. We’re at 279 recipes and counting with this posting. Hope you find some recipes you like. If this is your first visit, please check out past blogs for more Killer Fixin’s. In the right hand column menu, you can even look up past recipes by type. i.e. Desserts, Breads, Beef, Chicken, Soups, Author Specials, etc.

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Note from Eileen: This is a recipe I found in Country Living years ago that’s an absolute favorite in my household in the cold winter months. It’s good and hearty and something I could see the hero in my release, Jake’s Way enjoying after a long day working with his horses.

COWBOY CHILI

[Makes 6 cups, Serves 6]

[[Level Easy]]

Ingredients

1 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 lb. boneless chuck or rump roast
1 large onion
6 clove garlic
2 can low-sodium beef broth
1 tbsp. chili powder
1 tsp. cumin
1 can diced low-sodium tomatoes
2 dried ancho chiles
1 tbsp. masa harina de maiz (simply finely ground corn — similar to flour)
1 c. water
2 can pinto beans
½ tsp. salt
1 tbsp. cider vinegar

Directions

Brown the meat: In a large Dutch oven, add oil and heat over medium-high heat. Once oil is hot but not smoking, add beef and cook until browned — about 5 minutes. Remove beef, set aside, and reduce heat to medium.
Make the chili: Add onion to the Dutch oven and sauté until translucent — 3 to 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute. Return the meat to the Dutch oven. Gradually add 1 can beef broth and deglaze by scraping up the brown bits from the bottom of the Dutch oven. Add chili powder, cumin, and tomatoes. Reduce heat to medium low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
Puree the chiles: In a small saucepan over high heat, bring the remaining can of beef broth to a boil. Add ancho chiles and let stand 15 minutes to hydrate. Remove and discard stems. Place chili mixture and liquid in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth — 2 to 3 minutes.
Finish the chili: In a small bowl, whisk the masa and water together. Stir masa mixture into the chili. Add ancho chili mixture, pinto beans, salt, and vinegar. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. Serve hot.

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**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**:  Eileen is giving away one (1) e-book copy of JAKE’S WAY to one lucky reader who comments on this Karen’s Killer Fixin’s blog.  Thanks, Eileen, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!