Lori L. Clark's Blog, page 138

Stock Up for Summer Sale

Ten new adult/contemporary romance authors have gotten together to drop the price of one of their books to 99 cents for three days this weekend - May 9th, 10th, and 11th! They want to help you get load up your e-reader and get ready for an awesome summer of reading!


The Books
#1: TORN by Eleanor Green

“Be care how you look at me sweetheart, you’re putting some wicked thoughts in my mind.”

When Katie Harrington becomes engaged to Branson Stone she believes her life is right on track for all her dreams to come true.

However, flashes of a life she never lived haunt her—leading her to discover a past that has been purposely erased from her memory in order to protect her from horrible truths.

The look on her fiancé’s face as she retells everything she remembers will forever be etched in her mind. Instead of catching and comforting her, he lets her go.

Retreating to the family’s cottage on the Outer Banks for the summer, Katie’s heart begins to heal. She succumbs to the allure of a dangerously handsome local, Aidan Romero. But as soon as Katie begins to let go and move on with Aidan . . . Branson finds her.

Now Katie is torn between two lives—facing her painful past with Branson, or moving on with Aidan and keeping the secrets safely buried forever.

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes and Noble



#2: COLLABORATION by Nevaeh Lee and Michelle Lynn

“Now that little Southern Belle I just met…well, that’s a totally different story. I could feel the innocence just pouring off that one, and damn if I didn’t want to be the man to make a woman out of her.”

This is not your typical rock star romance. For one, the “rock star” is a rapper. And not just any rapper. Trace is the hottest ticket in the music industry right now, regardless of which definition of ‘hot’ you choose.

Taryn Starr is not the girl-next-door who unknowingly meets a celebrity. Known as “America’s Sweetheart,” the reigning country music princess and world-renowned superstar knows exactly who Trace is…or does she?

Their worlds collide when the musicians whose paths were never destined to cross are forced by their joint record label to collaborate on a song. The sparks fly and ignite a fire that blazes hotter with every minute they spend together—for better or worse. One thing’s for certain, the two media magnets can’t deny their explosive chemistry, but will life in the spotlight ultimately bring Trace and Taryn together or force them apart?

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes and Noble



#3: EVERSEA by Natasha Boyd

“It’s amazing,” he repeated, “that you seem to have no idea how fucking beautiful you are.”

When his co-star and real-life girlfriend is caught cheating on him by the tabloids, A-list hottie, Jack Eversea, finds himself in sleepy Butler Cove, South Carolina. Jack hopes the sultry southern heat in this tiny coastal Lowcountry town will hide him not only from the tabloids and his cheating girlfriend, but his increasingly vapid life and the people who run it. He doesn’t count on meeting Keri Ann Butler.

Keri Ann has relied on herself so long, dealing with her family’s death and the responsibilities of keeping up her family’s historic mansion, that boys and certainly the meager offering of eligible boys in Butler Cove, have never figured into her equation. But fate has other plans. Suddenly face to face with the man who played the movie role of her favorite fictional character, Jack has Keri Ann yearning for everything she has previously avoided … and Jack must decide whether this funny, sassy girl is worth changing his life for, before his mistakes catch up to him.

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes and Noble



#4: HE BELONGS WITH ME by Sarah Darlington

“I like you. I more than like you. As hard as I try, I can’t seem to stop and I sure as hell don’t want to try anymore.”

Two girls. One Leo.

Identical twins, Maggie and Clara Ryder, both grew up with Leo Maddox, billionaire playboy, apparent alcoholic, and heir to his grandfather’s world-famous Maddox hotel empire. Their roles were cemented long ago: Maggie, as his best friend and Clara as his childhood nemesis.

But when a simple twist of fate changes everything and both girls start to fall for the lean, mean, ridiculously sexy and seemingly spoiled Leo… which girl will win his heart?

Throw in a little mischief, drama, and one smoking-hot bartender and lines are sure to blur. But one thing’s for certain, neither good-girl Maggie nor rebellious Clara will be satisfied until they each figure out where they belong.

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes and Noble



#5: RUMOR HAS IT by Elisabeth Grace

“Rumor Has It is quite possibly one of the best New Adult debuts I’ve read–ever. I loved every hip-hop minute of it and can’t wait to read the rest of the series! I devoured it, from laugh out loud funny moments to hot Mason scenes, I was begging for more by the time I finished reading.”–Rachel Van Dyken, #1 New York Times Bestselling Author

All publicity is good publicity, right? Unless you’re recent college grad Ellie Wagner and an embarrassing video of you and your boyfriend goes viral. Every man in your life abandons you, but who knew a one-minute clip of your latest doomed relationship would brand you a slut, prevent you from getting your perfect job, and force you to keep doing the one thing you swore you’d never do again…live with your mother.

But staying with mom and her latest boy-toy (is this husband number four or five?) until your life turns around might not be all bad. Especially when you fall – literally – at the feet of a sexy, green-eyed stranger who offers you freedom and a life of luxury on a gold-rimmed platter.

There’s only one little problem – the man of your dreams is none other than Mason Nash, the latest hip-hop star busting up the music charts. Fame and fortune are his calling cards and he’s vying to steal the show on a new reality TV series that will catapult him into mainstream stardom. Hello spotlight. 
The man behind the famous persona is perfect for Ellie in every way, but can she overcome the ugly pitfalls that come with Mason’s celebrity status? Or will she be forced to choose between the man she loves and the independent life she longs for?

After all, fame and fortune aren’t always what they seem and not all publicity is good publicity…

Amazon US I Amazon UK | Barnes and Noble



#6: AT ANY PRICE by Brenna Aubrey

“Everything was spinning around me and I-I was spinning too, delirious with want. Like a woman drowning in the middle of a stormy sea, in desperate need of a life raft. That sea was Adam Drake and he was pulling me adrift, stranding me in some strange and forgotten land.”



Achievement Unlocked: Geek Virgin
When Mia Strong, proud geek-girl and popular gaming blogger, auctions off her virginity online, she knows she’ll make waves. But what she will not be making is a love connection. Her rules are set in stone: One night. No further contact.

It’s a desperate step, but it’s the only way she can go to medical school and pay her mother’s mounting hospital bills.

Difficulty Level: Millionaire CEO
Adam Drake, the enigmatic auction winner, is a software prodigy who made his first million at seventeen. Now, in his mid-twenties, he’s sexy, driven and–as CEO of his own gaming company–he’s used to making the rules. Before Mia knows what’s happening, he’s found the loophole in the rules of her auction. Every stipulation she’s made to protect her heart gets tossed by the wayside.

She can’t tell if he’s playing her…or if he’s playing for keeps.

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes and Noble



#7: BACK TO LIFE by Danielle Allen

“Before you, I just existed. I didn’t really live. I didn’t really feel. I was going through the motions. And then I met you…” I stroked his face and gazed up at him. “And you brought me back to life.”

Sahara Lee has spent the last ten years living with the guilt of a tragic accident and its aftermath. That night irrevocably changed the outgoing, fun-loving college freshman into an introverted, workaholic with no social life. Sahara isolates herself from everyone and everything that reminds her of home in an effort to forget what happened. Using art as a substitute for love, Sahara throws herself into music and art as a way to feel something other than the guilt that haunts her. She accepts her lonely existence as penance for the role she played in the accident. That is, until she meets Tyree Barker, the good looking entrepreneur with baggage of his own.

Blindsided by a legal loophole, Sahara is suddenly forced to confront the past she’s been running from. Juggling the guilty feelings of her past and the unexpected feelings of her present, Sahara’s future becomes complicated as she heads down a path of forgiveness, love, and heartbreak…and not in that particular order.

Back to Life reminds you that living and existing are two completely different ways to go through life. Grief will break you but guilt, guilt will destroy you. And once that happens, what can bring you back to life?

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes and Noble



#8: THE HIDDEN by Kelley R. Martin

“She was like quick-sand–the more I struggled to get out, the more I sank. So I’d decided to give up and embrace the sink down.”

On her first day of college, Emily meets a walking, talking god. With a gorgeous face, killer blue eyes, and a body to die for, it’s easy to see why Thomas Paige is the envy of every guy at Potomac Ridge University and why every girl within a fifty mile radius wants to get a piece of him.

Sounds great, right? Well, it would be if Emily didn’t think he was such an ass.

Since she’s not interested in becoming another notch on his bedpost, she tells him to shove it, and convinces herself that her novel use of the word “no” is what’s got him hounding her all over campus. But there are two sides to every story, and Thomas is determined to make Emily hear his. Even if it does sound crazy and impossible.

Amazon US | Amazon UK



#9: DON’T LET GO by Michelle Lynn

“I won’t give up. If you’re not going to fight for this…I’ll do it for the both of us.”

Sadie Miller is attempting to change her ways and hide somewhere no one knows her former self. She only wants to finish her final year of college, obtain her degree, and get out from the hold of her affluent parents. Then she meets Brady Carsen, the lead singer of The Invisibles, a popular local band in the college town. She tries to stay away but quickly realizes that, although he might not be what she’s used to, he’s exactly what she needs and more importantly, everything she could possibly want.

Unfortunately, Sadie’s troubled past left her with insecurities that make her question Brady’s true intentions. And while Brady is convinced that Sadie is the one for him, he has his own secrets that he fears will be their undoing. If they want to be together, they will have to stand united and fight the outside influences that are threatening to tear them apart. Can they put their pasts behind them for good in order to secure their future?

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes and Noble



#10: THE PERFECT EMOTION (Book 2 of the Perfect Series) by Melissa Rolka

“I’ve been waiting for you,” he whispers.

“I never asked you to,” I say with little conviction.


“And yet, here I am.” I slowly turn myself into him and bury my face in his chest. Even through his coat I can smell that familiar pine and masculine scent.

The story of Kate, Kyle and Reed continues in this second novel of The Perfect Series.

Kate (Katherine) Monroe is finally coming to heads with the decisions she’s made in the past to keep herself distracted at any cost. Learning to move on and forward with the conflicts in her life is harder than she expects though. With Kyle continuing to attempt reconciliation and Kate’s mom back at home, avoiding and running are no longer an option.

All along Kate’s mind and heart are consumed with Reed, but she fights to push her feelings and desires to the side. Despite the obvious pull and connection she has with Reed she finds it difficult to let him in… and trust in herself. However, Reed’s perseverance and patience never wavers and eventually he uses the one thing that had always brought them together… tennis.

As Reed and Kate begin to embark on a new relationship they face the past and the present head on. Along the way, new challenges and emotions arise testing the direction of their future together.

Can Kate forgive herself and trust Reed in order to latch onto the one emotion she needs most… love?

Amazon US | Amazon UK

Release Blitz: Drifting Into Darkness

I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, that there was a path we were all supposed to be on and the choices we made led us to those paths. My path led me to work on the Johnson farm in Texas, where I met Landon, the owner’s son. He worked there during the day and raced cars for fun at night. He was a bad boy with a reputation that exceeded my own. The guy all the girls wanted to change, the one that hooked up with random girls because he didn’t do relationships. He was exactly the kind of guy I wanted to stay away from, but there was something about him. It wasn’t just his looks, although they didn’t go unnoticed. There were layers I wanted to peel back and reveal. I wanted to know the real Landon Johnson. All the choices I made led me to him and he would change my life forever.
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Amazon​Amazon CA
Amazon UK
Releasing May 9, 2014 FACEBOOK * GOODREADS * TWITTER * AMAZONJ.M. La Rocca was born in Chicago, IL. At an early age, her family relocated to lower Alabama where she began her love for writing. She currently resides in Pensacola, FL with her husband and twin sons. As a stay at home mom, La Rocca was able to pursue her love for writing. It was always an unrealized dream to write her own book. With the encouragement of her mother, La Rocca began to set to paper her ideas for her first book. Landon arrived at the house ten minutes late. I heard him pull up and was about to hop off the couch and run out to meet him, but I held myself back. He could come to the door and get me. That’s what gentlemen were supposed to do, right?I was anxious as I waited, but thankfully I didn’t have to wait long. A few moments later, I heard a knock on the door. Quickly getting up from the couch, I made my way to the door and opened it up. Landon smiled at me as soon as he saw me, but I gave him no time to speak. I knew we were running late, but I pulled him inside. He had a stunned look on his face, but laughed as I shut the door, until I reached up and captured his lips.I had seen him the day before, but it had felt like forever since I’d kissed his lips. Something changed between us after our conversation and it only fueled my desire for him more. The intensity of the kiss was unlike anything I’d felt before. I knew he felt the need to be closer just like I did. Pulling away from me, he turned me and pushed me up against the door, firmly pressing his lips against mine. I opened up to him again and explored his mouth. But this wasn’t some soft kiss. This was a bruising kiss with sucking and biting. His hands roamed all over my body and ended up pulling at my nipples over my shirt. The heat level skyrocketed out of control.Grabbing my butt, he lifted me up and I wrapped my legs around his waist. Then he pushed me back up against the door. He trailed kisses down my neck and I moaned in approval as I ran my hands through his hair. I had my head tilted back with my eyes closed, as his kisses got lower.I felt like I was going to combust.He kissed the curve of my breast and I squeezed my legs around his waist causing him to groan. Looking down at him, I could see the primal lust in his eyes as his lips captured mine once again. His hand trailed up my waist, over my breast to the top of my sparkly tank top. Then without warning, he hooked his first two fingers into my top and pulled it down along with my bra, revealing my breast and my hardened nipple. He pulled back from the kiss and immediately went for it, causing me to buck and grind myself on him. He sucked and nibbled, before pulling down the other side to give the other one the same attention. He could have ripped the thing off and I wouldn’t have cared at that moment; I was so wound up.Grabbing his head, I pulled him back and captured his lips again. Cursing the jeans shorts I chose over the skirt I was going to wear. Then a phone started ringing. We ignored it and continued with our need to touch. His hand had just gripped the hem of my shirt, when a phone started ringing again, bringing me out of my lustful haze.We looked at each other, breathing heavily, as it continued to ring. “Holy shit,” I mumbled through my ragged breath.He leaned his forehead against mine as he fixed my bra and shirt, and then he gently set me down. “You can say that again,” he breathed heavily, giving a short laugh. “I definitely wasn’t expecting that.”I laughed shaking my head. “I bet that’s someone trying to figure out where we are.” I looked over at the clock and sure enough, ten minutes had past. “We are definitely running late now.”Tilting my chin up with a finger, he smirked down at me. “You can make me late anytime. Especially if you answer the door like that.” He leaned down and gave me a soft kiss on the lips before he pulled back and dug his phone out of his pocket.

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Book Review: Inked Armour

Inked Armour (Clipped Wings #2) by Helena Hunting: In this follow-up to Clipped Wings, the emotional love story continues between Hayden and Tenley; two young people who desperately want to love and be loved but are afraid to completely let go of their pasts.

In the wake of losing Tenley Page, tattooist Hayden Stryker's tumultuous past is haunting him. Plagued by nightmares about the murder of his parents, Hayden reaches out again to Tenley. Having run from the man she doesn't believe she deserves, Tenley finally lays her guilt to rest. Despite their intense physical attraction, Hayden and Tenley struggle to repair their fragile emotional connection. As Hayden gets closer to the truth, he must find a way to reconcile his guilt over his parents' death in order to keep the woman who finally cracked his armor, and found her way into his heart.
TeriLyn's thoughts: **Inked Armour generously provided by Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**

Inked Armour beautifully continues the dark, sensual, and deeply emotional love story between Tenley and Hayden. The prose begins where Clipped Wings left us emotionally hanging, wanting more immediately from these two fatefully destined characters. The story leads us on a journey of letting go of the tragedies from the past and the consuming guilt these tragedies left in their wake. Through a passionate and evocative portrayal we experience new beginning through Tenley and Hayden. They work through debilitating thoughts of regret, grief, and remorse for what they’ve lost all the while realizing the beauty of what lies ahead for them, together.

Their relationship became an addiction for each other, an intrinsic craving and evolves to where they become extensions of each other.Part of the reason I adore these characters so much stems from the depths of their emotions. The author brilliantly weaves together a quilt of refreshingly honest, comforting dialogue between the two with intriguing and real inner-monologues from both characters POV’s. Ms. Hunting’s character development thrives thanks to her beautiful, fluid writing revealing all the emotions, light and dark, these characters possess. The complexity of the woven webs of their pasts never escapes them but how they come to live with it touched me in such a connecting way. Hunting makes it effortless to fall back into the tormented world of Tenley and Hayden. The story is just a consuming as Tenley and Hayden find their relationship; a remarkable testament to the writing when the reader feels the raw emotions of the characters so fully.

I fell hard for Hayden Stryker in Clipped Wings and I fell even harder for him in this sequel. Hayden’s allure shines through the cracks of his armour. His vulnerability endears him to the hearts of the reader just as he’s endearing himself to Tenley. Hayden hopelessly devotes himself to her in so many telling ways. His desperation to make her happy and be a man worthy of her love is as beautiful as it is heart breaking. These depths of emotion and open, raw communication mixed with a passionate hunger for Tenley makes him irresistible. Any lapse in his control sends him spinning except where Tenley is concerned. Tenley’s growth in this story satisfies fully. Her acceptance of her past and her conviction to be exactly what Hayden needs stabilizes his story. She becomes an anchor staying strong through the storm, allowing him what he needs to understand the out of control feelings within him. Both of these characters make full strides in Inked Armour and it’s not an instant, all things are well, reunion. Trust seeds plant and bloom. The slowing down of their relationship made for some of the angst we had in Clipped Wings. The sexual build up and tension resonating from both characters is visceral. And of course, their discourse with each other shines so bright. They’re both young, witty, and funny, feeding off each other so easily. Hayden’s affection for cupcakes does not go unnoticed in this book and I love that about him. He’s such a simple man with the simplest of desires. Their fantasies are fulfilled by each other.

Inked Armour reminds the beauty of a caterpillar. Two tragically beautiful characters who need each other in a primal way fall in love and work through their tormenting pasts in order to better themselves for what they both deserve: each other. The story of Tenley and Hayden renews our faith through the angst and pain of these complex characters. The chrysalis of their fragile relationship blooms into a beauty like that of the butterfly. It’s peaceful, settling, and relieving – to know these two have found soul deep love and trust even through the pain of tragic pasts. I realize have a lot farther to go but I think together they’ll find their way. I hope we get to experience more of their journey because I fell in love with these books and look forward to more from this gifted author.

Favorite Quote:
“You know your family wouldn’t want you to be alone, right? They’d want you to have people in your life to love you and take care of you. I don’t know that they would have chosen me to be that person, but I want to be if you’ll let me.”

Blog Tour & Giveaway: My Clarity

Check out the Tour Page >>HERE<< for more chances to win!

Welcome to day two on the My Clarity V-Log Tour! 



My Clarity

By: M. Clarke (Mary Ting)

Available May 12, 2014 for ONLY $.99!!


** This is a New Adult romance novel recommended for ages 18+
due to sexual content and mature subject matter.**

Still reeling from the death of her father, Alexandria hopes to find both independence and reprieve from her grief by heading off to college. However, life throws her a serious curveball when she discovers that her roommate isn’t quite the person she had imagined.



Smoking, tattoos, and street racing for fast cash are Elijah’s only interests. A harsh life has made him apathetic and indifferent, until Alexandria enters his life. When their paths cross, turmoil abounds.



An inevitable encounter, an undeniable attraction, and an unexpected chance at love—will it be enough?

{{{ADD TO GOODREADS}}}


You can read the first 3 Chapters...

 https://docs.google.com/a/goodchoicereading.com/file/d/0B9nHkLUPnQnYNjA2c2VkZnlCMmM/edit
Join the Facebook Release Party!

https://www.facebook.com/events/439829042786270/?fref=ts


May 8th - Video Two











You could win a Kindle Paperwhite, or a $100 Gift Card to either Amazon or B&N! Winner's choice!

2nd place winner will win a beautiful bracelet made by Mary Ting/M. Clarke herself!

If you are international you will automatically win a $100 gift card.

Make sure to check back every day! New entries will be added daily!



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Mary Ting resides in Southern California with her husband and two children. She enjoys oil painting and making jewelry. Writing her first novel, Crossroads Saga, happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother, and inspired by a dream she once had as a young girl. When she started reading new adult novels, she fell in love with the genre. It was the reason she had to write one-Something Great. Why the pen name, M Clarke? She tours with Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children’s chapter book-No Bullies Allowed.

Website † Facebook † GoodReads † Twitter † Instagram † Pinterest 

Mary Ting is also a featured author at Chapter by Chapter Book Rave happening in NY on September 20th! 100+ authors will be signing! There will be YA BOWLING, BILLIARDS PARTY, and more!


Tickets available today! www.cbcevent.com

Promo Post: What If

SynopsisFor some people falling in love was a happy, glowing experience. For Briar Kelly
and Arrow Donovan it was more like getting hit by a freight train.


Caring for one another was never an easy feat. They constantly fought to
hold their feelings inside, not wanting to jeopardize their friendship. Then,
Arrow left for the Marines, and everything changed. Briar was shattered. Arrow
was hurt.

While Briar told herself she’d never let another man affect
her in such a way, Arrow still remained in the forefront of her mind. For Arrow,
his memories of Briar kept him alive in both of his near death experiences. When
Arrow’s demons threatened to drag him under, Briar was there, pulling him from
the darkness.

"What ifs" keep piling up while resentment and redemption
battles continue; will Briar and Arrow be able to find their happily ever after,
or will this be one war that Arrow can't win?



Excerpts
Excerpt #1“Wait, don’t forget the light,” she spoke quickly.             I nearly laughed. “Are you out of your mind, woman?” I pushed her legs apart and settled myself between them so she couldn’t close them tightly back together. I splayed my hands across her stomach.             “I like the light off,” her eyebrows drew together.            “Too damn bad.” I moved the tip of my pointer finger in small circles around her concave navel. “Do you know how many times I’ve played this scenario in my head? Try every day since I was fifteen years old. No way am I going to miss out on the way your body writhes underneath mine or the look on your face when I make you come.” Her hips tipped upward with my words.
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Cover Reveal: At Your Beck & Call

Hallen Jansen has it all. At 28, he has a flashy car, a great apartment, and a job he’s good at and that he loves – as an escort – working at your beck and call.
His life is easy, with no emotions or attachments slowing him down – choosing to keep moving, always running from the past.
But when a new client awakens unfamiliar feelings, all bets are off. Can he convince a recently divorced woman twenty years older to trust men again – to trust him? Can Hallen trust himself not to screw things up?

Surrounded by people who choose to judge them, will they make their relationship a reality, or is it heartbreak for both?
Not all services are professional. I was even more irritated when Sian laid a possessive hand on my chest, stroking me, as if I was some f*cking pet. Maybe I was more annoyed because that’s exactly what I was to her.
“Well, beautiful,” she said, cocking one eyebrow. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you quite this casual before.”
I glanced down at my ripped jeans, and old Fife Flyers t-shirt smeared with yet more paint.
“Except, of course,” Sian continued with a leer, “when you’re a lot more casual.”
She laughed throatily, a malicious glint in her eyes.
For the first time in a very long time, I felt embarrassed by her insinuation.Laura showed she had more class than her friend by skating over the comment.
“Are you an artist, Hallen?” she asked, raising one eyebrow, daring me to contradict her now she’d caught me with the evidence, nodding at the tubes of oil paints I was carrying.
“Ha, well, depends on who you ask,” I replied, playing along with the illusion that we were strangers meeting for the first time.
She smiled warmly, as if she was trying to convey some meaning beyond her words. “I do admire people who have creative talents.”
“Hallen has many talents,” snorted Sian. “Or maybe I should say one big talent. Oh yes, he’s definitely creative! In fact, you wouldn't believe how creative we can be when we get together. Is there anything we haven’t done creatively, beautiful?”
I felt my cheeks flush, and a small frown of disapproval appeared on Laura’s face. Sian was enjoying herself.
I stood up straight and took half a step backward so Sian’s hand fell away from me. I was not going to lose my shit in front of her.
“Well, I’d better get going. Enjoy your day, ladies.”
Laura smiled again, but Sian didn't even wait until I was out of earshot before I heard her loud laugh.
“He f*cks even better than he looks.”
FACEBOOK / GOODREADS / TWITTER / AMAZON / BLOG / EDUCATION FAN PAGE / EDUCATION SCRAPBOOK
I started writing contemporary romance two years ago. Before that, I didn’t think I could write a sex scene. Turns out I can!
My lucky number is 13 because I was born on the 13th and live near a haunted castle by the ocean. My number one past-time is watching hot surfers get changed into (and out of) their wetsuits.
My husband doesn’t read my books. My mother does.
Writing is my love, my hobby, my total addiction. All my characters are important to me and whisper their stories, even when I’ve finished writing their books. That’s why you’ll often find bonus chapters/out-takes from various books, because those voices just won’t be quiet.
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Cover Reveal: Changing Forever

We're very excited to share the gorgeous cover and a short excerpt from Changing Forever by Author Lisa De Jong! 


Title: Changing Forever (Rain 2, can be read as a stand alone)Author: Lisa De JongAge Group: NAGenre: Contemporary RomanceCover Designer: Mae I DesignRelease date: June 24, 2014Goodreads

Blurb:

I’ve always let my past dictate my future, letting it paint a picture of exactly what I don’t want to be. Where I don’t want to end up.

Drake Chambers is as arrogant as I am stubborn. A college quarterback, a national star. I thought he was just another one of those guys … the type every girl should stay away from, but he’s carrying more than the weight of the football team on his shoulders.

He unravels the feelings and beliefs I’ve held onto for so long.

I thought we had it all figured out. Two people who’d finally found their happily ever after, but the past always has a way of sneaking into the present.

With one decision, everything changes … forever.






Excerpt
Scanning the room again, I see her standing with Cole Dillon, laughing at whatever he’s saying. Cole’s one of the few guys on the team that I don’t consider to be a complete dickhead, at least when it comes to the way he treats girls. He’s one of the only guys who doesn’t disappear into a bedroom every Saturday night at these parties. He’s also the type of guy Emery deserves which makes watching this that much more difficult.

I stay in put, trying to convince myself she needs her space. I’m not good at this, and it all goes out the f*cking window when he puts his hand on her arm. My jaw clenches as I walk to where they stand, ignoring the crowds of people I pass. Just as I reach them, Emery throws her head back in laughter again, and Cole looks at her with a loving glint in his eye. At this point, he’ll be lucky if I throw the ball to him at all next Saturday.

When Emery finally sees me, she stops, putting her hand on Cole’s forearm. “Why didn’t you tell me Cole was so funny?”

My cheeks are probably bright red, because my face is f*cking burning. “I guess I didn’t realize Cole was a comedian off the field.” There’s a venomous bite to my voice. The way his expression changes tells me he heard it.

“He was telling me stories about the team’s road trips. I’m surprised any of these guys have girlfriends.” She smiles, bumping her shoulder against his. If she’s trying to irritate me, she’s doing a great job.

I clench my fists at my sides, trying hard to hold myself back. “I think it’s time for us to go,” I say, staring straight at Emery.

“But I’m just starting to have fun. Besides, you didn’t really want to come here together anyway. I’m sure Cole will give me a ride home.” She looks up to Cole again, and I swear to God I saw her wink.

I can’t do this anymore. I know she’s mad about what happened earlier, and if she’s trying to get back at me, she’s succeeding. I can’t remember the last time I wanted to punch somebody, especially someone I like.

Grabbing her free hand in mine, I walk to the door, giving her no choice but to follow. At first she drags her feet but I’m almost double her weight. She’s not going to win this battle.

“Drake!” She tries to pull her fingers from mine, but I win again.

“We’re leaving,” I say, not bothering to look back.

Before I can take another step, Cole’s in front of me, eyes blazing. “I don’t think she wants to leave with you.”

“She came with me. Now, get out of my way, Dillon. She’s fine,” I seethe. I just want to get the f*ck out of here.

He glances back at Emery, and even though I can’t see it, something must pass between them because he steps out of my path allowing me to walk past.

“Are you sure you don’t want to leave with Olivia?” I hear her faint voice behind me.

I stop, looking back. “What?”

I expected pissed on Emery, but she looks hurt. Genuinely hurt. “I saw you with her earlier. She must be good enough to be seen with here.”

Something snaps inside me. We continue the to fight our way through the crowd, but before we reach the door I change the plans. She tries to pull away from me but I don’t let her. Maybe it’s the two drinks I’ve had or the emotion I’m drowning in, but I find myself pulling her into the half bath off the living room. The look on her face when my eyes catch hers again is one of shocked surprise.

When we’re both inside, I push the door shut, reaching behind her to lock it. She doesn’t take her eyes off me, and I can’t take mine off her. This girl … I don’t know what she’s doing to me.

“You’re good enough, Emery. In fact, you’re too f*cking good for me. Don’t you get it? I want you so bad right now, but I’m fighting it because you should be with someone like Cole. He can be what you need … I can’t.”

Her eyes widen as she stares at me. “He’s not the one I want.”

Grabbing her hips with my hands, I pull her body so it’s flush against mine. She trembles in my hold but the hungry look in her eyes begs me to continue.

I run my fingertips up her sides, feeling the smooth texture of her t-shirt against my skin. Her chest heaves as my lips move toward hers. She’s hesitant; I feel it. I see it. This isn’t the first time I’ve done this to her, or the second.

I stop when my lips are so close to hers that one could debate whether or not we’re actually touching. Her warm breath tickles my skin, making it impossible to think. “I’m going to kiss you.”


Author Bio:



Lisa De Jong is a wife, mother and full-time number cruncher who lives in the Midwest. Her writing journey involved insane amounts of coffee and many nights of very little sleep but she wouldn't change a thing. She also enjoys reading, football and music. She is the author of When It Rains, After the Rain, Plastic Hearts and Glass Hearts.



Contact: lisadejongwrites@gmail.com, @LisaDeJongBooks, Facebook, Website

Book Review: Tempt My Heart

Tempt My Heart: A Brittan McKenna Novel by Danielle Jamie: **WARNING**

This book will emotionally wreck you!! Do not read at work or in a crowd of people unless you're okay with them watching you ugly cry like Farrah Abraham haaa!! Then as soon as you recover from your emotional breakdown prepare to be VERY hot & bothered!!!

This is a heart wrenching tale of love and loss with a sexy twist in the form of rockers Jordon Valentine and Brittan McKenna. If you love sexy rockstars and are a sucker for a sad story then Tempt My Heart is your kind of book. Bloggers say they haven't cried this hard since 'Taking Chances' By Molly McAdams and crushed so hard on a rocker since Kellan Kyle! This standalone is a must read! Brittan McKenna and Jordon Valentine are going to rock your world.

BLURB!
Brittan McKenna’s life was perfect. After getting engaged to her high school sweetheart her happily ever after seemed to be all planned out. However after 9/11 her fiancée drops out of college to enlist; Brittan’s life takes a swift turn. After enjoying a heartfelt reunion with Cane when he returned from his first tour, her joy was short lived as tragedy struck. Cane was killed in the line of duty during his second tour in Iraq. However after years of longing and pining for her dearly deceased, will her heart be able to beat again for another? Will she be able to take a leap of faith?

On the day Cane died, Brittan believed her heart had died along with him.......or so she thought until her passion for music causes her to blaze a new trail testing fate and “tempting tomorrow”.

Eight years marks the anniversary of Cane’s death when Brittan sets eyes upon Jordon; a guitarist whose shrouded in mystery and a world class bad boy for her bands opening act, Tempting Tomorrow. Will he have that spark to set Brittan’s heart a light? Does he have what it takes to win her heart and to make her love again?

Falling for a rock star is a dangerous game, but it’s a hopeless task when you both have hidden demons.

For Jordon love does not exist... not until he meets the lovely Brittan who has the power to tame the untameable beast inside of him.

Will Brittan open her heart to love or will she sabotage the relationship before it even has a chance?
Rosie's thoughts: Tempt my Heart by Danielle Jamie has taken me on a roller-coaster of emotions. I cried big ugly tears until about 50% of the way through the book.The tragic events of 9/11 changed the life of Brittan McKenna forever.

Her boyfriend and later her fiance, Cane, felt drawn to serve his country in its fight against terrorism. Sadly Brittan had the visit from men in uniform that no next of kin ever wants, giving her the news she never expected to hear. I could really tell that the author has had some personal experience of this as she wrote it with such raw emotion.

Brittan used this tragedy as a catalyst to give up school and take her band to stardom. Over the next 8 years the band goes from strength to strength whilst Brittan continues to grieve and gives in to drugs, ending up in rehab. Whilst there she cleans herself up ready to join her band on their next tour. At their pre-tour party Brittan finds herself in the arms of Jordan Valentine a member of the band who are supporting Brittan's band on tour. Over time Jordan becomes her rock and they become friends and lovers. The author develops this relationship in a really real manner showing the ups and downs of new love.

We see this relationship develop into happiness for Brittan.

I can't really put into words how great this book is. It is well researched, well written, real and captivating. This book has become my best read of 2014 so good that I read it in one sitting. Thank you Danielle Jamie your writing has amazed me and I certainly give it 5 hearts!

Book Review: In the Days

In the Days: A Tale of the Forgotten Continent by Andy Peloquin: The Empire of Atlantis: the most powerful nation in the world. Peace reigns across the continent, and an age of prosperity and enlightenment has made the Empire the center of the globe.

But, beneath the peaceful façade of life in the Imperial City, trouble is brewing. Assassins lurk in the shadows, intrigue abounds in the court of the Empress. Will political ambitions topple the House of Tah, or could the threat be one much more sinister in nature? Dark forces threaten the land, and the future of the Empire is at stake.

One man is shown a glimpse into the future--a future that could be, or the future that is destined to come?

This is the tale of the last days of the great Empire - the Empire that the world forgot. This is the story of Atlantis, in the days when it ceased to be.
Jordynn's thoughts: This book is a different genre than I am use to but the story was interesting. The reason this book got 3 hearts was that it took me a while to get into this story. There was a lot of action in this book which builds excitement and makes you feel you are there with the soldiers. The book was written in first person which I liked because I felt like I got to know the characters well. The downside to this book was that the chapters were short so it changes characters very quickly which sometimes added confusion.

Book Review: Fag

Fag by Krissy Bells: Aaron Garrett is many things in life: he is a son, a friend, a student, and caring boyfriend to his lovely girlfriend Leigh Ann. In these roles, he is kind, hardworking, smart, loving, dedicated, and considerate. At Jefferson High School, he is a leader, a football star, and well-respected by his peers. Aaron’s life is perfectly on track, he is pursuing a college scholarship and hopeful for the future, except for just one thing: Aaron Garrett is gay. When a former child star from Aaron’s small Southern town saturates the national media after making homophobic comments, Aaron’s life is turned upside down as supporters rally around the sentiments. Social media attention begins to swell nationally and locally until it begins to eat away at every part of Aaron’s existence.
Jordynn's thoughts: This was a very moving novel. As soon as you start the book it pulls you in and you are connecting with the characters. Aaron’s story was heartbreaking and it was hard to read about his inner turmoil about being gay. This novel teaches us that whatever someone may be showing on the outside they might be suffering on the inside. I was shocked about Aaron's friends and the drastic measures they went to exclude him. This is not my usual kind of book but it was an eye opener. I look forward to more novels by this author.