Zara Stoneley's Blog, page 8

Faberge Nostromo - His Secret Dancer

Hi Faberge, thank you so much for dropping by. That cover is gorgeous by the way!

Book blurb –
Dan's drab life is a world away from his secret life as Danielle, the burlesque star of Tomasz's transvestite nightclub, Trans-Action.Having found 'her' inner T girl as a student, Danielle has discovered the power of her femininity and her talent to entice and excite—but she realizes that Dan's life is losing the passion it once had.As Danielle's relationship with Tomasz takes her deeper into both her lover and his world, encountering passions neither thought they dare explore, demure Francine is too often left to her own devices and desires. Her only release is in the fantasies inspired by the customers who pass through her life and her patisserie.Does she want a man in her life or a woman? Or both...Seeing her man exploring her wardrobe she decides to embrace the power of her own sexuality. Then a sizzling encounter with Tomasz unlocks the vixen in her and sets their two worlds on a collision course.Can Dan bring Dan's world and Danielle's together—especially when he discovers Danielle's secret lover secretly loving Francine?Or will Tomasz come between them both

Okay, starting off with the book (and phew it sounds action packed!)…
If you had to sum up ‘His Secret Dancer’ in 30 words or less what would you say?
Can love conquer all and these star-crossed lovers embrace their star cross-dresser in a boy-girl-boy/girl ménage a trois? 

Dan/Danielle sounds intriguing – what do you most like about him/her?
I like how Dan finds his inner girl and accepts who he/she is. And she has a great voice – and legs…

Is there anything about ‘her’ that frustrates you?
Yes – she's so nervous and unsure about her singing. Just get on stage and do it, girl!

What does Tomasz most admire about her? What draws him to her?
Her legs! But also she is different to the other T girls Tomasz has known. And she reminds him of his first experience with a dominant woman.

And what is it about Francine that grabs his attention?
It involves chocolate – hot melting chocolate and how she lets him lick some off the wooden spoon while she licks her finger. She is a complete unintentional minx.

Tomasz sounds like one hell of a guy – is he someone you’d trust if you met him in a bar, or would you steer clear?
I did meet someone who was like Tomasz. I liked him and we shared a bottle or two of wine, so yes – I'd trust him.

What/who inspired you to write the story?
I actually met someone who had been a burlesque dancer - a real life Dan/Danielle. We were chatting over drinks watching the sun set in a South African lodge and he happened to mention it. And when he showed us the picture of him as a dancer my jaw hit the floor. I've still never seen a pair of legs in fishnets as good.

And what about the characters - are they a little bit you, people you know, or did they just leap out and grab you (metaphorically speaking of course!)?
Well, as I said, Dan/Danielle is based on a real person, but Tomasz is also based on that person so they're a mix. They're people I've met but none of them is any one person. Francine surprised me most as the story evolved though. I thought I knew who she was but she thought otherwise!

And we, sorry I, being naturally nosy would love to know a bit about you… Where/when do you write?
When I can really – a lot of His Secret Dancer was written on trains commuting to work, sometimes on my phone (one finger at a time). The editing was mostly done in bursts while I grabbed a coffee on the way to work. My favourite time is when I have an evening to myself although my imagination is best in the morning. I have to make hurried notes for later!

What part of writing do you enjoy most, coming up with the idea, planning, writing it or typing The End?!
Writing it. Pure and simple. Sitting down and getting it onto the page. Typing The End is quite disappointing!

Sum yourself up in 30 words or less (ha, I hate questions like this!)?!
Writes - a bit, plays guitar – ok, sings – not really but tries.

Do you spend much time reading? What’s your favourite bedtime/holiday read? Favourite author/genre?
Since I got my Kindle I've read loads more than I ever did before. From Milton to Jane Austen via Dickens and Homer I've discovered all the stuff I avoided at school.

Coffee or tea (or wine!)?
Can't get by without coffee, but red wine in the evening.

Starter or dessert?
Starter. I've usually eaten too much to find space for dessert.

What would you be doing if time & money were no object?
Writing during the day, playing guitar at night.

Best bit of advice you’ve ever been given, and by whom?
You should write – by a few writers.

And before you run off, can you share a little excerpt?Sure – Francine has two customers who intrigue her –
A woman, slim, tall, smart business attire – dark blue jacket, strong shoulders, just above knee length skirt, black tights – possibly stockings, but an expensive pair – and a very nice pair of black court shoes, heels just under the low side of slutty but just above the high side of sensible. Her friend/partner was a little shorter; her hair a very neat, jet black bob over piercing eyes very subtly made up and the sexiest mouth Francine had ever gazed upon. Full, almost pouting dark red lips, shimmering with an understated but overwhelming moist invitation to kiss, if you dare. She seemed to smolder with an androgynous sexuality that made Francine catch her breath. They were plainly together, holding hands, eyes on each other and when the taller woman picked up one of the samples of cake that Francine had out on the counter and placed it with an innocent nonchalance, but oh so sexually, in the shorter woman's mouth Francine felt a shiver tingle from her clit through to the depths of her pussy. The shorter woman’s eyes closed as the fingers brushed her lips, dropping the sweet pastry onto her tongue. Her lips closed on the fingers and a soft ‘mmm’ escaped like a sigh as they were pulled away.

Thanks for sharing Faberge and good luck with ‘His Secret Dancer’.
Buy from – Breathless Press

There's dancing, and there's d a n c i n g...as Raven would say!

A massive welcome to Raven McAllan today and her deliciously naughty new story (this cover is amazing, don't you agree?) Over to you Raven...



There's dancing…and there's dancing.
Something for everyone surely?
That's how my Romance on the Go story, Will You Dance Miss Laurence came about. Just what would you call dancing?

Blurb
 Dancing lessons were supposed to be fun, but who ever heard of attending them without your knickers on?Shibari Master Ryan is intrigued by Ava, so when his cousin asks a favor, he is only too happy to help Ava out of the rut she says she is in.Will her past allow her to enjoy his bondage, or will true submission prove a step too much?
Excerpt
"I expect you to answer me, Ava. You did it so beautifully when we last met. 'Yes, Sir' will be the proper response. So, I ask again, are you ready for your first lesson?" She swallowed and Ryan guessed she was wondering if she did indeed want what lesson he could teach her. He could almost read her mind, her face was so expressive."Um…" She blinked several times and rubbed her hands down her skirt. Damp palms perhaps? That's good."Yes, I think so. Oh, er, Sir." The last word tumbled out as if she was worried he would walk away without the title. Ryan chose to ignore her hesitation."Good, take off your dress." He folded his arms, as he wondered how she would react to such a direct command."Eh?" A soft rosy glow suffused her cheeks."You heard. Take it off or walk away. Your choice. From now you do as I say." He didn't elaborate. He knew it would be no such scenario. Any person could negotiate a scene, and if they chose to, then walk away. His stark order might be cruel, but Ryan was intrigued just how Ava would react. He had a feeling that under her quiet demeanor was a hot, feisty woman just begging to be let free once more.She blinked again. Dammit, is this Morse code? Because it’s a helluva long while since I was a Boy Scout.Ryan tapped his foot slowly and deliberately."Then I go." Ava walked past him, stopped and made her way back to stand in front him once more. Her five foot three height made her crane her neck to look up at his face. "I do nothing without freedom of choice, mate.""Sir. And good, that’s what I wanted to hear. Let's talk." He took her arm and walked to where he'd put the bench earlier and wished he could adjust his cock, which was rubbing his leather trousers as it swelled and demanded attention. Her attitude was one he preferred, and Ryan looked forward to their exchanges. He was under no illusion that they would be many and less than fiery and often. "Sit legs astride, there's a good girl. Let your pussy feel the leather. It might be soft, but It will make you wet. Are you going to stain my bench, love?""What?" It was a squeak rather than a word. "Oh god, I can so not do this. I'm sorry, and I don't even know your name, but this is so not me. What on earth made Jane think I'd want knickerless lessons is beyond me. Seriously, I'm sorry I've wasted your time, but I'm not who or what you want. Whatever that is, it's not me. Really, it's not. Hells bells, I'm an ordinary overweight thirty eight year old widow with a dr…well with nothing that would interest you I'm sure. So Mr. ... Sir … er, whatever, I'll be off." She tried to tug her arm away from him.He'd never met anyone who could babble so much so fast, and still have breath left. He held his hand up, and to his surprise, she stopped the pull. It was just as well, because she had the stamina and strength of an anchorman in a tug of war team. He grinned inwardly. Definitely not the build of one though."Calm down, sit how you want for now, and listen to me." She glared at him, and Ryan knew she teetered on the edge of acquiescing or slapping him senseless. However, she nodded and perched on the edge of the bench, the skirt of her dress tucked firmly under her and tight across her legs. Ryan was certain she had no idea how enticing the dark shadow of her pussy curls was. Even though he preferred a smooth hairless cunt, he wanted to be the one to make it so, and this hint of things to come had his body taut."Okay, but no siring or anything…"He chuckled, he'd bet his new cuffs he'd have her Siring him before she left."My name is Ryan. Ryan Culliver." He saw the moment the significance of his name registered.


Raven lives with her long suffering, dust bunny accepting husband ,and two cats, on the edge if a forest in Scotland.

She loves men in kilts and hates midges. However she'll put up with the second to drool over the first.



You can find her (usually eating chocolate, drinking coffee and procrastinating) at
http://www.ravenmcallan.comhttp://www.ravenmcallan.blogspot.comhttps://www.facebook.com/rmcallan       (my page)https://www.facebook.com/ravenmcallan  (author page)https://twitter.com/RavenMcAllan

Buy links
https://www.evernightpublishing.com

TagLine Tuesday #TLT

It's Tuesday, and time to look at some more great taglines (and covers!). Click on the links to find out more.

If you're an author and  want to take part then drop me a line at ZaraStoneley@gmail.com - all I need is a cover, buy links and a catchy tagline.




TOO DEVIOUS TO TAME by Doris O'Connor


He is the key to a shared past she can't remember.  Buy from - Evernight, Amazon, Bookstrand, ARe 






THE PRICE TO PAY by Raven McAllan

Can Raig persuade Vairi that age is no obstacle to love?

Buy from - Breathless Press, Amazon (US), Amazon (UK), ARe, Bookstrand

    FREEFALLING by Zara Stoneley  Will mixing business with pleasure leave Hayley with a blank canvas and a broken heart?  Buy from -  Xcite Books, Amazon (UK), Amazon (US), All Romance, Barnes & Noble, Kobo  

Welcome Victoria Embers

Victoria Embers is here today with an excerpt from her latest book, Redemption (My Vampire Lover Part #2) and an insight into the story.
 
GiveawayVictoria is giving away an ebook copy of Redemption (My Vampire Lover Part #2) at Amazon to the 12th person who comments on this article. Please include your email address so she can contact you.
All yours Victoria!
QuestionsWhat is the theme of the overall series, My Vampire Lover?I love the romance novels where the lovers want to be together, but can’t. I like the idea of Caroline and Raphael wanting to be together, but because they come from different worlds it is a big struggle for them.  The way I set it up is that Conquest (My Vampire Lover Part #1) occurs 8 months after Caroline is kidnapped and taken to the Dark realm.Caroline is a werewolf and princess of the Golden realm and she has discovered a new love in her vampire captor, Raphael. She's willing to risk everything, even her life, to prove to him she loves him and has forsaken all others including her family and her pack.We pick up in Redemption (My Vampire Lover Part #2) with Raphael learning that his father has kidnapped this princess and he decides he wants to help her escape because he knows his father, the dark lord Asmodeus will kill this woman. He suspects that his father has been killing off her family.Who is the hero in your series, My Vampire Lover?Raphael, the tall, dark, handsome vampire who has a loving heart and wants to do the right thing.  He’s a lesser demon because he has a human mother and a demon father. And his father, the dark lord reminds him of his inadequacies. Raphael refuses to think of himself as a demon or half-demon and vampire is a good compromise. He’s a rather different sort of vampire because his mother is a sorceress. I wanted to play around with a magical world and decided Raphael would be a vampire who can shift or turn into a puff of smoke. Seriously JI love actors who have that dark look, the brooding vampire like Damon in the Vampire Diaries or the sensual, sexy John Mitchell from Being Human (BBC). Those actors with bedroom eyes and drop-dead gorgeous looks.With Raphael, I gave him blue eyes instead of brown so he’d be different. Brown eyes are my favorite so I’ll figure out another hero who is my big, brown-eyed babe. For now, I can already tell, the more I write for this character, the more I fall in love with him. I walked around on cloud nine while writing Redemption. It was silly how lovey dovey I was. It was a blast to write so I’m excited to get going on the next one.What inspires you to write?Actually I’m new to all of this. A friend suggested I sit down and write the story I have been telling her and that’s what I’m doing. It’s a new adventure for me and I’m very excited about doing something creative. Simply, I like to think of this series as a love story I’m writing. Once I complete it, I’ll look to the next story to write.How many books to you anticipate will be in this series?Probably 4 novellas. I’ve already started work on My Vampire Lover Part #3 and hope to have it out by the summer.
Thanks for letting me be on your blog today, Zara. I really appreciate it! Everyone be sure to leave a comment (with your email address) after you read the excerpt. I love getting feedback!
EXCERPT from Redemption (The following excerpt is for MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY)He smiled at me smugly and focused his attention on my hips.  I followed his gaze.  He wrapped both of his hands around mine as I held his cock against my naked belly.  He stroked my hands, and then opening up the palms of his large hands, he quietly encouraged me to assume the task.  When I took charge, he mumbled, “You’re stronger than you think.”A fever of blushes covered my face.  “Oh my goodness, did I hurt you?”  I wanted to blush again, but his declaration, that he felt something quite literally when he had met me surfaced in my mind and sent me into oblivion.  True love.  I gazed up at him, marveling at the look of pleasure on his face.  True love.He moaned and rocked his hips gently into my hands.I rubbed the head of his cock with my thumb, feeling a sweet stickiness at the tip.Raphael moved his hand between my thighs and rubbed my clit, his fingers pumping inside me a few times.My hips met his movements and I groaned, feeling the warmth of his manhood slide between my legs.“I don’t want to control these feelings I have for you.”  He gathered me up in his arms.  “I don’t know where they came from.  Maybe it was the wolf chant that did it.  I don’t know for sure, but I know I feel this.”A slight smile crossed his lips.  He embraced me tightly and then picked me up in his arms.I placed my hand over his heart.  “True love,” I whispered as the words expelled out of my mouth in the form of a few short breaths.  Could it be?“This can’t be wrong, Caroline.  I don’t want to deny the possibility of the love we can have.  Say you agree?”“I think I already love you, Raphael.  I’ve never known anyone like you.  You’re a glorious, magnificent vampire.”When I felt his easing himself into me, my body melted.  “Oh my god, yes,” I cried out.  “Yes!  Yes!”  Wanting to increase our pace, I started to ride him with a newborn intensity.  The warmth of his blood raced through my veins.  “I’m yours,” I cried out.  “I’m yours!”“Shh,” he said.  “Don’t listen to my blood.  I don’t want you to be my servant or blood source.  Equal.”  With his muscular arms, he brought me up and down a time or two, shifting the rhythm of lovemaking to a slower urgency.  “I want us to be equals.  I want to cherish this moment forever.  I want to look in your eyes as I’m inside you and know if we are never to be together again we had this one moment, out here in this wasteland.”“By this rock,” I purred, letting him assume control.“Not too fast, my sweet.  Savor this feeling.”I smiled down into his striking, pale blue eyes, watching how they glowed in the low light.  His dark eyelashes fluttered now and again, but he refused to take his eyes off of me as we made love in such a desolate place.  I grew hotter by the minute witnessing the desire in his stare.  I studied him.  There was an inherent strength in his features, almost a haughtiness I could visualize him giving to others he disliked.  For me, in that moment, that strength was etched across his face with a look of devotion and confidence I had never seen before.  The turquoise blue in his eyes brought out a growing passion I could see that was all for me.  This could be my destiny, being with this man forever.  If I was as bold as I had just been taking him in my hands, a future with this vampire could be in my grasp.  But it meant sacrificing everything.  Just for him.When I felt myself about to climax, my head fell backwards and I gave myself up to him completely.  I let him lead the way and delighted in the ecstasy of his deliberately slow pace.  Waves of warmth rushed through my body as I neared orgasm.  I’ll remember this moment forever.“Slowly, my sweet.  Slowly.”I screamed the first time I came.  His hands rhythmically worked my hips up and down on his cock, refusing to stop.  He increased the speed of his movements ever so slightly.  I was helpless to stop his lovely hastened pace.  My heart raced rapidly and I wanted to slam my body into his, feverishly, insanely, erotically like I was in control of him, like he was there to please me and only me.“Shhh,” he said.  He gathered me close against his chest.  “That’s the blood talking.  Don’t listen to that.  It’ll pass.  Focus on this.”  He pulled me upwards and let me slide down again on his massive manhood.  “Come for me again, Caroline.”


Victoria Embers splits her time between being a stay-at-home mom and reading paranormal romance. She believes good romance should make you purr while good steamy romance should make you scream, but in a good way of course. Embracing her love of vampires and werewolves and the naughty situations they find themselves in, she's currently writing a novella series called My Vampire Lover with a blend of paranormal romance, fantasy, and erotica featuring, you guessed it, vampires and werewolves.Her current series, My Vampire Lover includes:-          Conquest (My Vampire Lover #1) - Released Nov 2012-          Redemption (My Vampire Lover #2) - Released Feb 2013-          Day of Reckoning (My Vampire Lover #3) - Late May 2013You can read Conquest (My Vampire Lover Part #1) for Free on Amazon. Victoria included the first two chapters of Redemption in the free download as well.

Where to find her Victoria's blog - http://victoriaembers.wordpress.comFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/victoria.embersTwitter - https://twitter.com/victoriaembersMy Vampire Lover series on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/MyVampireLoverSeriesByVictoriaEmbers
Buy Links:Conquest – http://www.amazon.com/Conquest-Vampire-Novella-Sample-ebook/dp/B00A8PYYOA/ref=la_B00A8YDFK0_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1361722793&sr=1-2
Redemption - http://www.amazon.com/Redemption-Vampire-Lover-Novella-ebook/dp/B00BHMNZJS/ref=la_B00A8YDFK0_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1361722793&sr=1-3

TagLine Tuesday! #TLT

There was so much going on last week that I had to skip TagLine Tuesday - but it's back today with some more great taglines (and covers!). Click on the links to find out more.

If you're an author and  want to take part then drop me a line at ZaraStoneley@gmail.com - all I need is a cover, buy links and a catchy tagline.

If you enjoy reading contemporary romance why not check out Tagline Tuesday over on my Susie Medwell blog.

 
A TASTE OF LONDON by Lucy Felthouse


Two men. The trip of a lifetime. Girls, girls, girls. A Taste of London.

Buy from - all links


BLUE MOON HOUSE by Angelica Dawson
Can Julia convince seven Vampires that they want to keep her forever?Buy from - Naughty Nights Press, Amazon, Smashwords, ARe  










BLOOD BONDS (The Progeny Series #2) by Ashlynne Laynne


Forever. For always. For eternity.


Buy from - Amazon (US) , Amazon (UK ), BN , Smashwords

Serviced! How hot do you like your men in uniform?

It's the 1st March which means it's release day! Ten great stories from nine great authors, so can we tempt you?

All's fair in love and war, they say. Come find out if it's true in these ten stories where soldiers prove that their skills in the field are only rivaled by their skills in the bedroom.

For One Night Only by Allie A Burrow
Over A Dead Body by Leona Bushman
Reds, Whites, and Blues by Mickey J. Corrigan
Leave Taking by Angelica Dawson
First Date � The Italian Colonel by Jesabelle Jones
Major's Minah by Ravan McAllan
Knock Out by Natalia Petrovskii
A Chance At Love by Shelli Rosewarne
Taking Command by Zara Stoneley
Riding Out the Storm by Natalia Petrovskii



‘Taking Command’ Serviced Anthology Vol 1, Zara StoneleyMike Sands knows that loving a soldier can lead to heartache, so when he falls hard for his best mates little sister he knows he has to walk away. But can Jade let him, when one taste has left her desperate for more? Or dare she take command of the situation and prove to both of them that maybe what they have is worth taking a risk over?Sometimes one night of passion is not enough, sometimes you just have to stop thinking about the future and live in the present.
And a little teaser...
"You wouldn't believe how much I want you." He swallowed hard. "But, I should never have touched you." He should never have touched her, and he should never have left her. Shit, if she carried on doing that, he'd be coming. He shouldn't have kissed her; he shouldn't have wrapped his arm around that firm ass and pulled her in tight so that her breasts rubbed against his shoulder. He shouldn't have run his hand up the inside of her creamy thigh. Even though he wanted her so much it hurt, and she knew, they knew each other so well. Too well. Maybe, just maybe nothing would happen to him...and maybe she was strong enough to cope if it did. Jade wasn't his mum, Jade was unique. 
The string of rational thought shattered and his stomach clenched as she stepped closer, leaned down, and ran her tongue over his lips. She teased at his mouth with her teeth, pulling just short of pain, and he groaned. 
Want to be one of the first to snap up a copy? I'll add links as I get them, but you can order from Breathless Press now! Enjoy :-)

A chat with Dianne Hartsock - excerpt and giveaway!

Hi Dianne, thank you so much for dropping by.
Thanks so much for having me over, Zara!
Book blurb –
Willie has met an old flame, but is he willing to give up the decadence of Boston society for the man he loves?
For the past three years William Wilkerson has led the life of the privileged rich. Head of his father’s As his former tutor, Fredrick has been declared off limits by William’s father. Fredrick also believes he's beneath the attention of Wilkerson’s heir. Willie disagrees, but is he willing to throw away rank and privilege for the man he loves?

Okay, starting off with the book… If you had to sum up Wee Willie Winkie in 30 words or less what would you say?Willie is reunited with his true love, but after three years apart, is he willing to give up his life of pleasure for Fredrick?
William sounds intriguing– what do you most like about him?Being the author, I probably shouldn't say this, but I think he's adorable! Decadent and desirable and full of life. I love his joy and enthusiasm.
Is there anything about him that frustrates you?He can be a little self-absorbed at times and not notice how his actions affect those around him. He's been careless of people's hearts, but maybe Fredrick can help him with that.
What does Fredrick most admire about him? What draws him to William?Despite his shortcomings, Willie has a good heart and is true to his friends. Also, Fredrick is a more reserved man and William's vitality is a strong attraction to him.
William sounds quite wild, what are his redeeming features?William is a good business man, a loyal friend, a passionate lover and generous with his possessions. He's quick to anger but also willing to forgive if someone truly regrets what they'd done.
And is he the type of guy you could fall for, or would you steer clear?Like I said, I think he's adorable, but he's complicated and hot blooded. It would take a special person to balance his volatile nature. I think Fredrick's loving, gentle nature is exactly what he needs.
What inspired you to write the story?My publisher, Breathless Press, put out a call for Naughty Nursery Rhymes, and since Wee Willie Winkie has always been my favorite, I thought I'd write one about him. I always thought Willie would be a bit mischievous and cunning and it was easy to imagine him as an adult and the trouble he could get himself into.
And what about the characters - are they a little bit you, people you know, or did they just leap out and grab you (metaphorically speaking of course!)?I suppose my characters are a little of everyone, but honestly, when I think of a story, the characters come to me ready-made. I don't create them so much as discover them as I write their story.

And we, sorry I, being naturally nosy would love to know a bit about you… Where/when do you write?My son recently moved to his own apartment near his college, so I've converted his room into my writing space. All my lovely things are here with me! As far as writing, I get up an hour early to get some time in before work, then have about two hours in the evening. Then on my days off I squeeze in as much as I can.
What part of writing do you enjoy most, coming up with the idea, planning, writing it or typing The End?! Writing the story! The ideas come easily. Finding the time to write them takes some doing. But I absolutely love writing the story and watching it unfold on the page. I'm usually as surprised as the reader with where my characters take me!
Sum yourself up in 30 words or less (ha, I hate questions like this!)?!I'm a wife, mother, author, floral designer, good friend, loving daughter and sister, and a born introvert who struggles every day to overcome my shyness.
Do you spend much time reading? What’s your favourite bedtime/holiday read? Favourite author/genre?I read every second I can spare! I've been the original bookworm since I first learned to read. At bedtime I like to snuggle on the couch with the latest m/m romance I've bought.  Holiday story would be the latest romance (1880-1920) that I just bought to add to my collection. My favorite author is Dean Koontz. And no, I don't have a favorite genre. I enjoy all kinds of books in all different genres.
Coffee or tea (or wine!)?A caramel macchiato with whipped cream. J
Starter or dessert?Oh, dessert, absolutely!
What would you be doing if time & money were no object?Maybe it sounds a little sad, when I could be taking amazing trips around the world! But even if I were taking these trips, I'd still take my laptop and write. I have so many stories swimming around in my head, I'm afraid I'll never get them all written. And writing is my absolute favorite thing to do.
Best bit of advice you’ve ever been given, and by whom?Best advice I've ever been given is to be true to myself and my writing. Don't try to write like anyone else. Simply put the words that come to you down on paper (or computer). It's the only way to find your own unique writing voice. The one who gave me that advice was the very first editor I ever had, May Bestall. She worked for Wolf-Pirate Publishing and helped me work through my psychological thriller novel ALEX.



And before you run off, can you share a little excerpt?
Fredrick held up his glass and stared at the candle's flame through the amber liquid. He took a sip, savored the rich, biting taste on his tongue. He welcomed the burn down his throat. This was the very last drink he could afford, and he had to make it last.
A giggle erupted from the booth in the corner, the one whose curtains were drawn against curious eyes. A smile tugged at Fredrick's lips despite the dire state of his wallet. The laugh had been carefree, joyous, naughty. Fredrick shifted on the cushioned bench. Only a few straggling customers remained in the dining room. He wondered if any of them would notice if he shifted his cramped cock as it throbbed in sympathy with the bright laughter.
Rather than risk it, he watched the fruit vender outside the window beguile a customer. Another giggle and stifled moan swiveled his attention back to the corner. A silk-clad foot and slim calf peeked beneath the curtain. He grinned even as the delectable sight emphasized his own loneliness. It had been far too long since he'd had someone in his bed.
"Excuse me. Sir?"
Fredrick looked up, distracted from his memory of lush lips and white skin and wide, hazel eyes, and blinked at the stout innkeeper at his elbow. "Yes?"A frown fleeted across the man's homely face at another bout of laughter from the corner. "If they're disturbing you, I can have Wee Willie take his guest upstairs. Excuse me, I mean Mister Wilkerson." The man broke off, flustered by the slip of the tongue.
Fredrick's heart leaped on hearing the name mentioned. Is William really here? How could that be? The innkeeper coughed, and Fredrick frowned at the intrusion into his thoughts. The man was so damned serious about such a minor indiscretion. "They're no bother. In fact, I'm almost done anyway." He lifted his nearly empty glass. Hearing a shout, they looked over in time to see a young man tumble through the curtains onto the floor. Fredrick caught a glimpse of red hair and an embarrassed cheek before the gentleman crammed a hat on his head and strode passed them, face averted. The innkeeper shrugged and followed, likely to be sure he paid for his drinks.
Fredrick stared at the silk-clad foot still protruding from the parted curtains. He loosened his hold on his glass but had no way to stop the wild hammering of his heart. Before he lost his courage, he stood and swallowed the last of his brandy, then walked the short distance to the booth.
A grin tugged the corner of his mouth at his eagerness. It had been three years, after all, and they'd parted in anger. Would William acknowledge him? His hand trembled as he drew aside the heavy curtain and allowed his gaze to travel up the silky hose to bright blue trousers. Blood heated his face when he found the laces undone at the waist and the silk shirt open to expose white skin and rosebud nipples.
A sigh brought his gaze up to the pretty face that stirred his dreams. Rich brown curls surrounded lovely hazel eyes and full, pouting lips. He groaned when a delighted smile revealed the even, white teeth that had nipped his collarbone on more than one glorious occasion. "Freddie, is it you?"
Buy links – Amazon

 
Thanks for sharing Dianne, and good luck with Wee Willie Winkie.
Thanks again, Zara. It's been fun!
Prize time! Please leave a comment telling me your favorite naughty character for a chance to win an E-copy of any book on my backlist. Don't forget your contact info!


Bio -
Dianne Hartsock is the author of paranormal/suspense, fantasy/adventure, m/m romance, and anything else that comes to her mind. Currently, she works as a floral designer in a locally-owned gift shop—the perfect job for her. When not writing, she expresses herself through the rich colors and textures of flowers and foliage.


Where can your readers find you? Blog: http://diannehartsock.wordpress.com/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/diannehartsock Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/diannehartsock Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/4707011-dianne-hartsock

#SexySnippets - Seven from my man in Service!

Happy Sunday everyone! On Friday, 1st March, I will officially become a member of the Breathless Press family when the 'Serviced' anthology is released So, to celebrate, here's seven sentences from my story 'Taking Command' and my very sexy SAS man - but exactly who's in command?
She ran her tongue over her generous mouth, and smiled, so slow and so deliberate that he felt his mouth dry up like he was tasting dust. "Six months ago, you gave me what I wanted, Mike, what we both wanted, just before you ran away." Her lips parted and she dipped one finger deep into the soft warm depths of her mouth, drew it out slowly, her cheeks hollowing. Just the way she'd look as she sucked his aching dick. "I still want you and I think you still want me, don't you?" The husky voice snaked straight down his body to his aching balls. "You wouldn't believe how much I want you."
'Serviced, Volume 1' is already available for pre-order on the Breathless Press website :-)
Now I'm off to check out all the other SexySnippets, hope you'll join me!

Good News Friday - UPAuthors Award winner and more!

Hi! I've had a bit of a hectic week, so I thought I'd share the highlights before I go off to celebrate! Hope it's been a good one for you too - have a great weekend wherever you are and whatever you're doing :-)


My first bit of good news....I'm thrilled to say that 'Good Enough to Share' can now be called Award Winning!
In the recent UP Authors Erotic/Romance contest (UPAuthors.com) it was awarded Runner UP in two different categories - Best Title and Best Chapter.





Secondly, have you seen the new cover for 'Forfeit'?
I love the new look that Xcite Books have come up with - very sexy and intriguing. What do you think? I'd love to know :-)

So, why the new look? Well, part of the reason is that 'Forfeit' is now available in print. This is my first single title to come out as a paperback, so as you can imagine I'm pretty excited (a bit of an English understatement!).

You can already buy a copy direct from Xcite (click here), and it will be more widely available later in the year.







I also had a brief moment when I could have kissed the postman yesterday (okay, it was brief, I got over it pretty quick!) because he brought this! Excuse the picture quality, but I snapped as soon as it was out of the wrapper :-)
My novella 'Freefalling' was written for the Secret Library collection, and is one of three stories in 'Masquerade'. The other two are by the brilliant Elizabeth Coldwell and Poppy Summers. Each story has also come out previously as an individual e-book, and the collection is available as an e-book as well. But, wow, it feels so good to hold a paperback containing one of my stories! I do love e-books, but I also love a physical book I can hold (and I'm stroking this one too!).



Then, mid-week I discovered that the 'Serviced, Volume 1' anthology from Breathless Press is going to be released on 1st March - a week earlier than expected. You can already pre-order from Breathless Press if you want to make sure you're one of the first to read my short story 'Taking Command' and of course the other nine sexy soldier stories!





And, to complete my week of good news, I've just signed a contract for 'Spice It Up' with Xcite Books. The novella will be part of the Secret Library collection. If you've been reading #sexysnippets you will have already met my sexy Spaniard - if not, there will be more teasers coming soon!

'Sinfully Delicious' By Dirk Tyler and Kameron Brook

I'm lucky enough today to be joined by Kameron Brook, who is sharing an excerpt from 'Sinfully Delicious' with us.

Bio:  Kameron and Dirk, a passionate couple in and out of the bedroom, decided to join forces and bring their erotic imagination to life with words. Their solo stories are electric; however, the works they create together will practically sizzle off the page. Yes, they might live in a quiet suburb neighborhood, but they’re anything but tame and unadventurous. A fact you shall read and learn about soon enough.

Kam and Dirk collaboration – “Sinfully Delicious” (M/F)
 Christine's been without a man for far too long, so she lets her BFF Jasmine talk her into speed-dating. Unfortunately, far too many of her dates are romantic non-starters -- in the worst way. But all it takes is one... and when the right man comes along, he's Sinfully Delicious.

Buy link -
http://www.changelingpress.com/produc...


Excerpt:

Wednesday Evening

It’d been two years, six months, and fourteen days since Christine had felt the loving touch of anyone but herself -- not that she was keeping track. Which was the reason she’d allowed her best gal-pal, Jasmine, to talk her into heading out tonight and giving the speed-dating scene a try… again.

“Woo hoo, Christine. Come in. Are you with me?”

Christine studied her completed look in the glass door of the Midnight Rendezvous. She held the phone tucked between her ear and shoulder while she kept tugging at the hem of her dress, which barely covered her ass cheeks. “Jasmine, I can’t believe you talked me into this get-up. I’m literally popping out all over.”

“Babe, you look hot, so quit the bitching and stop tugging on it.”

Christine’s hands stalled and dropped to her sides. “How’d you know what I was doing? Are you lurking nearby?”

Jasmine’s voice rose an octave. “Hello, best friend here. I know you, and I know you’re freaking the hell out. Do me a favor and relax, because any man would be lucky to have you. Now, hang up and get your sexy ass inside.”

Christine gave herself a final once-over and took a deep breath, releasing it slowly. “Thanks, Jasmine. You always know how to calm me down. Love you.”

“I love you too. Now go.”

Christine nervously inched her way over to the sign-up table, paid the twenty-dollar fee, picked up a nametag, and found an unoccupied chair. As the announcer went over all the rules of the event, she eyed the prospects and found several who looked attractive. Hope began to blossom. It seemed simple enough. Every two minutes a new man would sit down across from her and engage in a brief conversation. If she believed a connection was made, she would place his name on a card. The men would do the same, and if there was a match between cards, both parties would be notified through an email. “I can do this,” she mumbled.

The announcer rang the bell.

The first eligible bachelor, Bradley, sat down, and it was two minutes of pure awkwardness. His hands shook uncontrollably, and he wouldn’t stop apologizing. He refused to make eye contact and finally excused himself to the restroom, leaving her alone.

Christine couldn’t believe how badly the night was starting off. She tried to embrace Jasmine’s glass half full attitude and hope the next guy would at least remain seated for the entire two minutes.

Ding. A very handsome man with perfect features slid into the chair across from Christine. She noticed right off the bat he had no wrinkle lines, crow’s feet, laugh lines -- nada. She found that odd until he spoke. Then it all became clear. Unlike Bradley, he didn’t say “Hi” or offer any other pleasantries. His gaze traveled from her face down to her chest, head tilting left to right, and then he spoke. “You have a beautiful face and body, from what I can see, for a woman of your age, but if you ever decide to fix your trouble spots, I’d be happy to give you a discount.”

Christine couldn’t believe her luck. She already doubted her looks, and now this man she didn’t know was judging her appearance? Great, just freaking great. If she were Jasmine, she would’ve been spewing words that would make a sailor blush; however, Christine hated public confrontations. Instead she put on a fake smile. “Don’t bother writing my name down.” Their remaining time couldn’t possibly end quickly enough for her liking.

Ding. “Thank God that’s over.” One look at the surgeon, and she realized she’d spoken aloud. She opened her mouth to apologize, but before she could get the chance, he turned and walked away.

Prospective dates three through twelve were nice enough, but she knew they’d be no more than friends, and not the kind with naughty benefits. Her shoulders slumped in depression and she wondered why she’d let Jasmine talk her into this. A dozen men had come and gone but none lit a fire in her belly. Eyes downcast, she waited to hear the sound of a chair scraping the floor.

Instead, she felt cool glass press against her palm and a warm breath against her ear. “I didn’t know what you normally drink, but I sensed you needed something strong.”

Christine looked up into the most gorgeous eyes she’d ever seen. They were almost hypnotic, and his voice was equally distracting, drawing her in. She was clueless about how long she stared at him like a lovesick puppy, but it was long enough that another bachelor took his position for the two-minute meet and greet. Spell broken, she addressed dreamy eyes first because she had to know his name. “Umm, yes, thank you, Mr…”

“You may call me Sin.” Then he stood upright and kept all his attention on her but clearly directed his words to the gentleman across the table. “If you were a smart man, you’d start the conversation by telling her how gorgeous she looks tonight. Let her know no other woman has ever looked lovelier in your eyes. That from the moment you saw her, you wanted nothing more than to feel her lips against yours, to touch her and be touched by her.”

Christine grew more aroused with each word Sin uttered. She’d come out tonight looking for a spark, and damn if she hadn’t found a five-alarm fire. Did Sin realize the effect his words were having on her?

He winked, and her silent question was answered. Damn him, he knew exactly what he was doing to her. The other bachelor cleared his throat. “Yeah, thanks for the advice, but I don’t need it. I’ve got this.”

Sin’s face tensed up. “Not yet, you don’t.”



Find out more about Dirk and Kam, or contact them, at:
Blog: http://www.dirkandkam.com
Facebook Author page: https://www.facebook.com/DirkandKam

Goodreads' links:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5781386.Kameron_Brook
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5120666.Dirk_Tyler

Amazon Author Pages:
http://amazon.com/author/kameronbrook
http://www.amazon.com/Dirk-Tyler/e/B0...