Vallory Vance's Blog, page 17

Shameless Desire and A Giveaway

I want to thank Author Tina Donahue for dropping by the Vallory V Blog and sharing her new release with us. It sounds as great as the title.

Passion without limit. Carnal hunger that knows no bounds.

Within Earth’s five dimensions, nothing is as it seems…and desire is never far away.

In E4’s jungle, Kuma was the Alpha werewolf, bent on revenge against the hated guards. Swept with them into the E1 dimension, now he prowls Seattle at night, stopping the thugs from abducting women for use as sex slaves in E4’s Pleasure Palace.

On her way home from her nursing job, Gwen senses danger in the night’s shadows—an instant before a stranger attacks. Clinging to consciousness, she watches the impossible, a wolf fighting him off…protecting her. She wakes in her own bed, convinced it must have been a dream until she sees Kuma in human form. Virile, intense. A man like no other.

Within his powerful embrace, Gwen experiences rapture she didn’t believe existed. His unrestrained lust and burning need end her loneliness, though not the menace they face. The guards are a constant threat in their hunt for women and their determination to see Kuma dead. Together, he and Gwen must fight—for his life, her freedom, their future.

PRODUCT WARNINGS

Out-of-this-world sex and a romance to die for. Features a hunk whose inner beast won’t be tamed, and the woman who craves his most shameless desire.

Excerpt:

This couldn’t be happening. It was too damn weird. Maybe she was still unconscious and dreaming, having the mother of all nightmares.

“Do you want me to show you?” he asked. Not waiting for her answer, he lowered his hands to his jeans’ button and fly.

Staci made a strangled sound that could have been fear or arousal. “Is he going to strip?” she breathed.

Appeared that way, which made Gwen wonder if this would be the first or second time he’d done so tonight.

“Stop it right there,” she ordered, frowning at how weak she sounded. As though she wanted him in the buff. “Just take me through this verbally. Your name’s Kuma. You’re from E4. You’re not a man, you’re a…”

Gwen couldn’t continue without shivering or laughing at how outrageously screwed up this was.

“Werewolf,” he said.

Staci made a gagging noise. “What?” She spoke to Gwen. “He’s on drugs, right? I should call 911, get the cops over—”

“I’d be gone before they ever arrived,” he said to her, then asked Gwen, “Is that what you want?”

She chewed her lower lip, not certain whether to tell him to get lost or to see this through, whatever it might be. He wasn’t on drugs as Staci had claimed; his eyes were too clear, his touch too enticing, at least those parts of it she recalled. He was as sober as she was. His thought processes, however, were definitely off. Maybe he was a psychiatric patient…an extremely hot one who thought he was a wolf, having seen the one in the alley.

Where had it come from? Where had it gone?

Didn’t matter, as long as it wasn’t in here, and it was not. The damn thing would have been jumping on her furniture, destroying it, leaving its drool all over the place. There were no sounds of crashing glass or splintering wood, only Staci’s rapid breathing and the pounding rain breaking the quiet.

“Do you?” he murmured when Gwen didn’t answer.

His manner was nonthreatening, his baritone gentle. Despite Gwen’s misgivings, she couldn’t deny that he had seen to her safety after the attack tonight. Her being here proved it. So did the cruel scratch marks on his arms.

Lowering her revolver, Gwen pushed to all fours to get a closer look at his injuries. In the gloom, the lacerations appeared black. She recalled when he’d been in the bathroom. He must have been washing the blood off. If those gashes were from the wolf, Kuma would need rabies and tetanus shots. She stated the obvious. “You’re hurt.”

Her breasts appeared to entrance him. His Adam’s apple bobbed with his hard swallow. “I’m fine.”

Spoken like every other man she’d ever known, so macho they’d deny a bullet to the heart. “Screw that. You’re still bleeding.”

He ran his fingertips over the wounds. They narrowed instantly, closing to thin lines as they healed.

Gwen gaped. “Oh my God, how’d you do that?”

“Do what?” Staci asked, moving toward him.

Kuma regarded her. She stepped back and flapped her hands. “I won’t come any closer. Don’t hurt me.”

“He won’t,” Gwen said, even though she didn’t reach for her gun again. Somehow, she knew she wouldn’t need it…at least not against him. “I don’t understand any of this. What you just did, it was a trick, right?”

“No.”

“Then how—”

He interrupted, “The experiments the rulers conducted on my kind millennia ago allowed us to heal ourselves to some extent, as long as the wounds are superficial. For serious injuries…” He stopped, a pained look racing across his face.

“What?” Gwen asked.

His expression changed, as though he noticed her again. “The rulers wanted to use my ancestors to benefit their kind as warriors, fighting whatever battles they faced. They bred us for strength, resiliency and intelligence. We’re able to adapt quickly, learning customs, languages, whatever we need to survive.”

Their kind? His kind? Rulers? Gwen forced down a swallow. “I get it that you’re not from here.” It took her a moment to continue. ”That is, Seattle or this country.”

“This plane,” he said.

That didn’t sound good at all. Before Gwen could stop herself, the words rushed from her. “Are you saying you’re from another planet?” Was such a thing even possible?

“Not another planet,” he said. “Another realm. E4.”

Staci moaned.

More info: http://store.samhainpublishing.com/shameless-desire-p-7360.html

 

About the Author

Tina Donahue is an award-winning, bestselling novelist in erotic, paranormal, contemporary and historical romance for Samhain Publishing, Ellora’s Cave, and Kensington. Booklist, Publisher’s Weekly, Romantic Times and numerous online sites have praised her work. Three of her erotic romances (Adored, Lush Velvet Nights, and Deep, Dark, Delicious) were named finalists in the 2011 EPIC competition. The French review site, Blue Moon reviews, chose her erotic romance Sensual Stranger as their Book of the Year 2010 (erotic category). The Golden Nib Award at Miz Love Loves Books was created specifically for Lush Velvet Nights, and two of her titles (The Yearning and Deep, Dark, Delicious) received an Award of Merit in the RWA Holt Medallion competition (2011 and 2012). Take Me Away and Adored both won second place in the NEC RWA contest (different years). Tina is featured in the 2012 Novel & Short Story Writer’s Market. She was the editor of an award–winning Midwestern newspaper and worked in Story Direction for a Hollywood production company.

Email: tina@tinadonahue.com

Website: http://www.tinadonahue.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/tinadonahue

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/tina.donahue.75

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/authortina/my-books/

Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/author/tinadonahue

My page at TRR: http://erotic.theromancereviews.com/mypageprofile.php?location=tinadonahue

  *** CONTEST ALERT *** CONTEST ALERT *** CONTEST ALERT ***

 

In celebration of Shameless Desire’s release, I’m offering one of my backlist ebooks to one lucky commenter. The winner’s choice includes:

1. Adored – RWA award-winning; EPIC 2011 Finalist; 4 Stars RT

2. Deep, Dark, Delicious – EPIC 2011 Finalist; Holt Medallion Award of Merit

3. Lush Velvet Nights – EPIC 2011 Finalist; Golden Nib Award

4. In His Arms – SIX 5 Star Reviews; 4 Stars RT

5. Sensual Stranger – 2010 Book of the Year (erotic); 4 Stars RT

6. The Yearning – Top Ten Bestseller

7. Take Me Away – #1 Pick, Miz Love Loves Books

8. Unending Desire – Best Book Rating LASR

9. SiNN – Nominated for Book of the Week LASR

10. Sinfully Wicked – Magnificent – Romancing the Book

11.  Claiming Magique – Top Pick – NOR

Make sure to comment for your chance to win and leave your email address.

Sad Song for Tuesday – Love Is

Researchers have found, according to a NPR report on a random day, that Americans are most unhappy on Tuesdays. The happy effect from the previous weekend has passed and the upcoming weekend seems far away.

So from the Vallory V blog, I add artistic validity to this sad day:

Love Is as sung by Vanessa Williams and Brian McKnight.

At Least I’m Doing Other Things…

I haven’t gotten a lot of manuscript writing done lately. It’s hard to begin working in earnest on a project after finishing one.

But I’ve been doing other things.

I finally finished Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Loved it!

I’ve been blogging and you’ll see me all around the blogoshere in the next week:

April 22, 2013: I’m visiting Jamallah Bergman’s Stories of Love and Romance

April 25, 2013: I’m appearing on the Tracee Ford Spring Fever Blog Tour

April 25, 2013: It’s my day over at Luscious Literaries! I’ll be talking about my experience with taxes and the business of writing.

April 25, 2013: The Tortured Hero Blog Hop begins (I need to write that post.) Yikes!

April 30, 2013: Last day to enter my giveaway on Goodreads for a chance to win a print copy of Deja Vu.

See I’ve been doing stuff. Even wrote up this little unexpected blog post!

~Val

Hump Day Hook – Deja Vu

This is a weekly blog hop that happens every Wednesday–Hump Day–where authors can showcase and share their work.

My hook is from my new release Deja Vu, a contemporary romance available on All Romance, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Smashwords. This snippet is near the end of Darcey and Vincent’s first official date.

She thrust the box back at him. “I can’t accept it. It’s too expensive.”

It wasn’t gratitude he sought. He wanted her, needed her to have something from him that was especially for her. He leaned forward taking in a deep audible breath. “Darcey, when I give someone a gift. I expect them to accept it because it’s a gift. Like I told you before, this isn’t a marriage proposal. Take the damn earrings. Wear them when we’re together.”

He pressed the box firmly into her hands and sat down. “In fact, why don’t you wear them now?”

To find others joining in the Hump Day Hook, click here.

You just may find your next read!

And for a visual of Darcey’s and Vincent’s story, view the trailer on Youtube!

Sad Song for Tuesdays – Cumbersome by Seven Mary Three

Researchers have found, according to a NPR report on a random day, that Americans are most unhappy on Tuesdays. The happy effect from the previous weekend has passed and the upcoming weekend seems far away.

So from the Vallory V blog, I add artistic validity to this sad day:

P.S. This song is best minutes before a break-up.

My favorite line: 

Too rich or too poor, she’s wanting me less and I’m wanting her more

The bitter taste is cumbersome

Sunday Chat with Ray Sostre

I am very happy to welcome author Ray Sostre to the Vallory V blog!

Where are you from?

Hi, thanks for having me here. I’m Ray Sostre, and I live in Nevada, but not near Las Vegas or Reno; it’s a small town close to Salt Lake City, just two hours away. I’m originally from New York City, and yes, I’m a proud city-boy. Although, I didn’t grow in NYC all of my life; I’ve lived in New Jersey and Northeast Pennsylvania before moving out to Nevada.

Tell us a bit about your family.                     

Well, I’m a son of a retired New York City Transit Worker, and a son of retired school teacher. I’ve always considered myself an unusual kid growing up. I had a cool childhood, but I was also the ‘black sheep’ of the family – lol.

What is your favorite quality about yourself?

Well, I never give up. While my schedule is chaotic, I always get things done. I have a spontaneous mind when it comes to writing, and I’ve always had the appreciation for all kinds of arts –both erotic and non-erotic – and I’m always willing to learn about other people’s work.

What is your least favorite quality about yourself?

I have to take the bad along with good, and accept that I’m never going to be perfect. I strive to improve what I struggle with, and I also learned that I’m not going to please everyone.

What is your favorite quote, by whom, and why?

In 2001, I was sampling a song on my turntable, when I DJ’d, called “Burning” by Hybrid, and the beat rock rocked, and this quote got to me – “Life is all about expressions. You only live once and you’re not coming back; so express yourself.” I’ve kept this motto in my mind for a long time, until I learned this quote was a sample taken from Salt ‘n Pepper “Express Yourself” ten years prior.

Although, it was from the original artist, my inspiration moment was from this track by Hybrid. If anyone grew up with the good ol’ days of DNB and Breakbeats, you’ll know what I was talking about.

  What are you most proud of accomplishing so far in your life?

*sigh of relief* My accomplishments was in 2010, when I decided to pick up a flash drive and a keyboard and type my first published short story at a story submission site… RSVP Erotica and then the site I established in October 2010 – AfterDark Online.

AfterDark Online was also another accomplishment I created. I established a site for readers of erotica, and beginner authors of erotica. This site also hosts interviews, contests, and weekly events for other sites.

My third accomplishment is establishing my first ebook in September 2011. It was my first erotic story, which is only available on Smashwords – Their First Night Together. Although, it was rough around the edges, it was my first crack at it, and I felt I can continue as an author in publishing books.

What is your favorite color?

I have actually four favorites – Blue, Silver, Black, and Purple.

What is your favorite food?

This would definitely be the hardest one. Right now, my girlfriend and I could live off sushi.

What’s your favorite place in the entire world?

If I could live in the area, I would. My favorite place in the world is Lake Tahoe, California or Carson City, Nevada. I live 6 – 7 hours east from the area, and I vacation there every year. I party in South Lake Tahoe and Reno, and I love the area. Like I said, if I could live there I would. I’m four hours away from the Bay Area; I have other parts of California to visit, and I could go to Reno whenever I feel like it, or go party in Lake Tahoe.

When and why did you begin writing?

While I’ve been writing erotic romance since 2010, I actually started writing in 1990, while I was serving detention. I remembered the first story I wrote, but I never titled it, and I don’t have it ‘til this very day. Although, I remembered writing a story about a guy serving detention with his secret admirer, and in the end he met his secret crush. I wanted to pursue screenwriting, but I put aside my writing in 1997 to follow a new passion – music.

I DJ’d in the club for the next 7-8 years, spinning mostly house music. When that passion died, I didn’t’ return to writing until the summer of 2010, and that actually happened by accident, when I came across that hobby. The very first erotic story I wrote was a threesome, but I never published it, nor had I ever posted it on my blog. It was rough around edges, and it needed reworking. I was so rusted with my writing I had to re-learn the process, because I was away from it for more than a decade. But when I completed the story called Lonely Hearts – a story about two online pals that realized they were neighbors, I felt there was hope for me to advance with my passion for writing, and that’s when I decided to write erotic romance.

What inspires you to write and why?

Lots of things today, erotic pictures, stories I’ve read, and then spontaneous moments. What inspires me to write is also reading other people’s erotic stories. I prefer to read erotic, because it’s what has inspired me ‘til this very day to write.

I could look at a picture of a man and a woman, or two women making out or having sex on the sofa or bed, and if the scene is intriguing, I’d find ways to get my thoughts through and write a short snippet based off that scene.

What genre are you most comfortable writing?

I prefer writing erotic because it’s where I feel the most comfortable. I love the drive it gives me when I’m writing erotic. I prefer erotic romance, because I want to write something with a purpose. I love mixing the story with drama and comedy, but without erotica, I don’t think I’d have the interest in writing. I have to be honest with myself in what I want to read and write.

I learned that some of the authors from this genre were once sweet romance writers. Some still write erotic romance, others have returned to their sweet roots. I have nothing but love and respect for them, and understand that this was there originality, but for me, I love writing erotica, and the fan base that comes along with it.

One author told me she’d never want to work with me since I wrote the genre, and I was quite fine with it, because I wanted a style that I was most comfortable with; not to please the author I am working with. I enjoy writing about lustful attractions between a man and a woman, or two women, or three or more people that share the same passion with each other.  I believe sex is part of life, and I don’t find it taboo to talk about it. While I don’t discuss my sex life, I enjoy writing about fictional sex lives.

What inspired you to write your first book?

When I wrote the first book – Their First Night Together, I was writing based on an era I grew up in and where I grew up – New York in the 1990’s. I wanted to write a simple erotic romance about two people that went to high school together, but didn’t reunite until eight years after. I wanted to write a story where I could call it my pride and joy. Back in 2011, I was in the tadpole stages of being an established author. I wanted to get my foot in the door of the e-publishing world and to be taken seriously as a male erotic author. A month prior, I finished a novel, which I haven’t yet published, because I wasn’t ready to get it published.  It was for once where I wanted to write something that more than 3k words, and less than 10k. It was perfect when I wrote it, and I will re-write now that my style has gotten better.

Do you intend to make writing a career?

I actually do. I also want to make a career with my other baby – AfterDark Online. Three things I want to keep in my life, since I find them very important to me – my long time girlfriend, my website, and my writing. I love all three of them. Although, the reality lives up to your expectations when you don’t have enough money, but I’m in it for the passion while I keep a real job.

Can you share a little of your current work with us?

Surely, the book “Her Angela & Protection” is a series that I’m working on. It’s my first f/f story, and the story is about two best friends from high school that start living together, after the heroine of the story, Vivienne, was thrown out of her place by her good-for-nothing husband. Angela lets her stay, and could use her company, but she soon develops feeling for this woman, but wondered if Vivienne felt the same way, because of her inviting gesture towards her. The name of the story is officially In The Beginning, because it explains how these two end up being lovers. While the story is a short novella, another sequel to the story is in the making.

How did you come up with the title?

Funny to say, lol, it all came up from a song remix I heard from 3LW feat Nas – I Can’t Take It (No More), respectively. This was a track I heard back in 2000 & 2001, and the phrase, which originated from Eric B & Rakim, respectively, in their 1986 Paid In Full song, “Let me be your angel and I’ll be you’re protection.”

Can you tell us about your main character?

When I originally designed the characters, I painted Angela & Vivienne  a little bit like Risoli & Isles. And funny to say, I never saw the TV show, but I wanted to paint these characters as best friends and lovers; these two were meant for each other. Angela was the tomboy, while Vivienne was the girly-girl. I wanted to design these girls as the odd couple, but lovers.

Why did you choose to write this particular book?

I wrote this story because I was very fascinated in writing an f/f story. Plus, as a male erotic writer, I wanted to break down the barrier of men that wrote the typical f/f stories. I wanted my stories to have meaning and purpose, and be taken serious as an author of f/f erotic romance.

I was inspired by Dawne Prochilo’s ebooks Rachel’s Desire and then her following f/f Callie’s Way – VW Club. and then everything else fell into play. Upon completing my story, I had it read by three other people. One author who inspired me to come out with a series was a f/f author Erin Miller. She came out with a f/f series about Jackie and Honey, and I was left with a positive feeling after reading the story, and that’s what inspired me to write a series.

How can we purchase your book?

People can purchase these books easily through:

No Boundaries Press

All Romance eBooks (ARe)

Amazon Kindle

Barnes & Noble

Do you write under a pen name and why?

No, I have no pen name. I write under my real name – Ray Sostre, because I love the way it sounds I guess, lol. But perhaps if I wrote another genre other than erotica (which I highly doubt), I would probably use one. However, all of my stories are under my real name.

Have you started another book yet?

Yes, I’m working on the sequel to the story “Her Angela & Protection: Moving On.” This story is about Angela and Vivienne being faced with challenges of their relationship. I intend to get more in depth with the characters; show where they’d came from before they got into the relationship.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I actually see myself in five years doing what I truly love, establishing my site – AfterDark Online as an influential site for both amateur and professional writers,  and writing lots of erotic romance stories.

What are your current writing projects now?

I’m in a middle of several. One series that I’m dying to publish,  hopefully by next year is the Darla Love’s Tyler Series, and the first story to the series is “About The Night Ride Home.” This story I wrote dated back in 2011, but I never published it, because my writing style was different at that time. I so much want to get this story published, and these are my most favorite characters to write about. But I waited so long, because of other commitments; I have many other writing projects.

I’m currently writing several stories; one in particular is a cougar-erotic romance called “Finding Possibilities” about a woman who just turned forty and meets a man who is ten years younger than her. This story I’m writing is about the stereotypes and the possibilities of a younger man/older woman relationships.

I’m also working my attempt to make a five-flame erotic romance called “The Weekend.” It’s about a single woman (Sylvia) who spends the weekend over at their best friends’ place (Jacob and Melissa). The three spend the weekend out partying when something takes a turn – all three end up sleeping with each other, and the decision to take their friendship further weighs in with them. Were they meant for each other? It’s a polyamorous ménage story, and that’s why I’m working on a five-flame.

I also have a few others coming out. I have a second f/f short story called “To Get With Stephanie” This story is for the Erotic Countdown and soon on Amazon.com In addition, I am working on a holiday story called “Snow Day” another attempt on a five-flame story, and lastly my erotic comedy called “Service With A Smile”

How do you deal with bad reviews?

Depends, how informative they are. I learned that many reviewers can be helpful; depending on how the author takes it. I’ve encountered those who are nit-picking at the author over the pettiest little things, like not enough realism, when the story is supposed to be fiction. I learned some reviewers don’t know how to review too, but I don’t let them discourage me, because I strive on improvement, and I understand that some people have a different flavor to what they read. I remember one person was overly-critical that she forgot to give the positive aspects of the story; nothing but the negative. Show me an author that likes a bad reviews, and I’ll show you a very offended author. But you have to take them with a grain of salt, and see if they’re going to help you improve, or hurt your feelings out of spite.

Do you have any advice for writers?

Yes, don’t stop because you’ve learned everything. You’re always learning, but always keep an open mind for new things. You don’t have to change who you are or your style, but you can learn from others and either adapt to their success or avoid their failures. And one cardinal rule – never quit. You’ll never know what you can make out of it if you’re persistent.

What is the demographic for your targeted audience?

My demographic audience is women, and I’m happy to say that, but I’m most comfortable writing for younger women, particularly the generation X & Y, because of their open-mindness to the genre, especially from the younger generation now born 1995 and before.

I also want to have an LGBT following, especially for the f/f genre. I want to cater to that audience as well, people who have a love for contemporary m/f stories, f/f and f/f/m stories. It’s who I am, where I feel best comfortable writing.

Why do you feel you can write for them?

I feel readers of f/f or f/f/m, should be represented. What I want to separate myself from other authors is the typical sex stories. I want to write the stories with meaning, even though the sex scenes are there. I have a love for ménage stories that involve two women and a man, and two women also. I want to represent them, even thought the numbers were small. I’d rather represent those readers than just do the typical.

If you could have any supernatural power, what would it be and why?

To be impervious, lol. But I’d use this kind of power wisely to help the helpless against the evil.

If you could have a book signing anywhere in the world where would it be and why?

Salt Lake City. Why? Because my writing career begins here and I want to represent those readers who showed me the love.

Wow, I truly want to thank you for your time, and I had fun answering the questions. I can’t wait to finish my next story and go ahead to get it published. It’s been a real honor to be interviewed by you – thank you. 

Thank you, Ray. Very informative interview!

Deja Vu and Youtube.com

I’m trying all sorts of things to get the word out about my work:

Goodreads giveaway of five print copies (available in the US, GB and CA)

Upcoming Blog Hops

Guest posts hosted by some wonderful bloggers

Facebook Event – May 11, 2013 – I’ll be giving away gift bags and print copies of books. (If you don’t have your invite, please let me know I’ll send you one along!)

And I posted a trailer to YouTube!

Let me know what you think.

Really, let me know before I start promoting this thing and find out it sucks!

 

Sunday Chat with Really Rashida

The Vallory V blog welcomes Really Rashida ~

Where are you from?

A: I was born, raised, and currently live in Cleveland, Ohio.

When did you first know you could be a writer?

A: In first grade we had “Book Day” every Tuesday. Each student created a book and presented it to the class. I always took this very serious. I always loved the feeling of writing stories so it was then that I knew I could be a writer.

What inspires you to write and why?

A: Everyday life inspires me to write. All of my stories come from the crazy things that I’ve encountered in life. I want to show ladies like me that just because we come from the ghetto don’t mean that our stories aren’t worthy of being told. With every story I write I keep my homegirls in mind.

What do you consider the most challenging thing about writing a novel, or about writing in general?

A: Developing characters. It really takes time to give birth to a character that is realistic and intriguing so that the readers believe that the person is just as real as they are.

Can you share a little of your work with us?

A: My latest novel is called ‘Toxic’. It’s a suspense thriller in the urban genre. Here is a blurb:

Love is a hell of a drug and Tracey is a full-blown addict. Just when she thought she was over the lies, abuse, and betrayal from her boyfriend, Andre, she had fallen right back into his trap. What started out as a romantic reunion between the estranged lovers ended in kidnapping and over twelve hours of torture for Tracey.

When she was finally set free she ran to the person who always bails her out when she gets knee deep in drama: her best friend and mentor, Sandra. Hearing how Andre violated Tracey again told her that it was time to introduce an unorthodox way to stop Andre permanently. Tracey was going to kill him and Sandra would teach her how.

The plan was done and the scene was set perfectly. All Tracey had to do was slip some poison in Andre’s drink. Unfortunately, the murder goes terribly wrong and he escapes. Now Tracey has to find him and finish the job before it’s too late.

Can you tell us about your main character?

A: The main character is a young lady named Tracey. Tracey is naive girl who is looking for love in all the wrong places. Despite all that, she is strong and persistent. She is the type of girl that you love and feel sorry for all at the same time.

What was the hardest part about writing this book?

A: The hardest part was giving the book a good love story. I don’t read romance novels that often so writing it didn’t come naturally.

How can we purchase your books?

A: You can purchase my books in all formats via Smashwords and Amazon

Have you started another book yet?

A: Absolutely! It’s called Beautiful Liar and it’s an urban murder mystery. I’m very excited about it.

How do you deal with bad reviews?

A: I accept it and move on because I know that not everyone will like my writing. We are all entitled to our opinions. I just see if I can use that criticism to get better at what I do.

Do you have any advice for writers?

A: Learn as much as you can about the craft and business of writing before you write your first word. Then continue to learn because the industry is always changing and you will want to be on top of your game.

If you could have supernatural power, what would it be and why?

A: I would be able to turn invisible whenever I want. That way I can disappear and not be bothered when I want. Plus, it would be fun to mess with people.

Find Really Rashida online: 

Website: http://reallyrashida.wix.com/books

Twitter: http://twitter.com/reallyrashida

Facebook: http://facebook.com/reallyrashida

Youtube: http://youtube.com/reallyrashida

From the author: As a special gift to your readers I have a coupon code for 15% off for the duration of the tour, which ends May 3, 2013. They will have to purchase the book from the following link - https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/287784
Then enter the following coupon code at checkout: UG56V

Thanks Rashida!

Bad Vallory, Bad!

Look at that lovely banner!

Notice the date? YES! March 11, 2013! Totally slipped my mind.

I had a blog tour and was hosted by the following wonderful bloggers:

The Avid Reader
I am, Indeed
Pink Fluffy Hearts: Diary of a Coffee Addict
Books to Light Your Fire
YA Books of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Queen of the Night Reviews
Sweet n’ Sassi
Sapphyria’s Steamy Book Reviews
Bunny’s Review
Kaidans Seduction
Buffy’s Ramblings
Book Addict
Books & Tales
A_TiffyFit’s Reading Corner
My Seryniti
herding cats & burning soup
Bea’s Book Nook
The Darker Side of Romance
Coffee & A Book Anytime
Paranormal Romance and Beyond
My Bookshelf
Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, Mystery and More!

I gave away prizes! The winners were: Chenise, Breanna and Vampiros Sorenos!

My apologies to all the bloggers for having flaked. I am truly grateful for your time and congrats to the winners!

~Bad Val

Wednesday Chat with Jamallah Bergman

Welcome Jamallah Bergman to the Vallory V blog!

For those that know me well, I am a stickler for old movies.

I have a huge love for old movies for as long as I can remember. My mom says that my love for old movies comes from my dad, who was also a movie lover. I particularly love movies from the silent era onto the 60’s. I mainly love drama, comedy, musicals and horror but I am particular about the horror. I love old horror, black and white, cheesy B movie horror movies with Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney, Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee.

When I decided to write my latest book “The Admission” I took the idea for the story from one of my favorite movies called “The Heiress” which starred Olivia de Havilland and Montgomery Cliff. If you haven’t watched the movie, I so suggest that you please watch this amazing cinematic story and you will understand completely as to why I wrote this story.

This particular story really brought out a lot of emotion for me when I wrote it. I was sad, I was angry, I swooned a bit, I laughed and cried a bit at the same time. I honestly had to walk away from the story sometimes because of how much raw emotion went into these pages. Even though this story has been told over the years, never did I think when I wrote it that the characters would have such an impact on my life as well as the story of Cathy’s evolution from a timid introvert to a woman who finds love as well as strength despite never having been loved by the one person whose loved she craved more than anyone in her life….her father.

I really did enjoy writing this book and I do hope that when readers get the chance to read this amazing story that they will love how someone could remake a classic like ‘The Heiress’ into a modern story of admission as well as finding love.

 

Book Blurb: The Admission

All she ever wanted was her father’s love.

Cathy Sanderson tries her best to impress her father despite his resentment over her. She seemed to contemplate most days, “Why me? Why do you hate me so daddy?”

He’d belittle her about every little thing. The pain and anguish she felt as his only child had her day dreaming that one day he would treat her special.

Cathy loves her father and tries to make him proud of her, but everything she tried, never seemed to work.

Her shyness plays against her, and makes her a prisoner within her own mind.

She feels nothing in her nonexistent life could be made any better.

Until, she met him.

Rodrigo “Rod” Coram lives the life that most men fantasize about. He’s the owner of a fabulous club, The Orchid Lounge. He has great clients, great friends and the eyes of every woman around.

One thing Rod didn’t have was a woman to love.

Rod’s best friend Frank asked him for his help. He needed an extra groomsman for his cousin’s wedding.

That’s when fate brings an unloved woman, and a man looking for love, together.

New Love.  Secrets.  Regrets. Two people find each other, but their personal lives may keep them apart.

EXCERPT

Rod looked up toward the DJ, getting his attention as he put up a peace sign. This was his sign to change up the music as the DJ nodded. Soon the lights in the place changed as well as the music.

The mood of the club quickly changed while some of the folks started clapping and shouting. “Alright ladies and gents, we are going to slow it down a bit tonight so grab a honey and get on the dance floor.”

“Dance with me?” Rod asked her and a shocked looked came across Cathy’s face.

“But I can’t dance,” Cathy reminded him as he took the glass from her. Putting it on the counter Rodrigo took her by the hand while walking through the crowd of people.

“Now have you ever slow danced before?”

She shook her head no and he smiled. “That’s fine, I’ll take you in my arms and you will hold my hand like so.” And with that, he did what he said as his arm circled around her waist drawing her closer to his own body.

She nearly lost her breath looking up at him. Taking her hand in his, his fingers softly closed around hers. God, she thought, he had some big hands with soft long fingers too. He held their hands against his own chest as they found the rhythm of the music while swaying back and forth. Their eyes stayed upon each other while the music continued playing. “There now, you are dancing my dear.” Rodrigo smiled. She did too trying not to look into his eyes, but she couldn’t help it. She swore it had to have been the liquor making her feel so tipsy because she thought this was the most handsome man she had ever seen in her life.

“Do you know how handsome you are?” Her words slurred a bit, God she couldn’t believe how drunk she was after only two drinks. He must think she was a complete fool telling him this.

Rod had never seen such a sweet sight as this woman he was holding in his arms. He knew she was drunk but he tried his best not to laugh at her. For even though she was drunk, this woman was way too cute.

“Thank you for saying that.” Rodrigo smiled feeling her head lying softly against his chest. He leaned next to her hair inhaling deeply the sweet smell of coconuts. The way her body next to his felt like a glove and he wanted so badly not to overwhelm himself much less scare her off. He knew taking advantage of a first time drunk was wrong, but something came over him at that moment. He couldn’t understand what it was that made her so irresistible while they swayed to the music. Maybe it was because he hadn’t had a woman this close to him in such a long time.

“Can I call you Rod?” Cathy asked him.

“Sure you can, all of my friends call me Rod.”

“Am I your friend?”

“Of course you are.” Rodrigo smiled as he heard her giggle while she snuggled even more in his arms.

“Did I mention how cute you were, too?”

This time he had to chuckle looking down at her lovely face, her eyes seemed to dance around a bit while trying to focus on his own. “Well you did say I was handsome but as far as cute, I haven’t heard anyone call me cute since my mom, and that was when I was little.” Rodrigo was happy she was having a good time. He didn’t want her to feel uncomfortable and now he knew at least he was doing a good job of being a great host to her.

Soon the couple found themselves laughing. “Well you are cute and handsome too, probably the most handsome man I’ve ever seen before in my life.”

No more drinks she thought to herself while her eyes closed. Breathing in his cologne seemed to suffocate her, but not in a way that would choke her, no in a way that made her feel even more lightheaded. Never in her life would she that she would be in a nightclub having drinks and dancing with a very handsome man. He felt so good, she thought, as she felt his fingers tighten around her own. His other hand pushed her more into his chest. She enjoyed the feeling that he gave her even though he might not have known what he was really doing to her. She had never had a man make her feel the way this one did. God, Cathy thought, wouldn’t it be nice if they could just stay right here holding each other like this? That way she wouldn’t have to go back home and be bothered with her father’s words of hate.

About the Author

Writer Jamallah Bergman was born in Jamaica Queens, New York. Although her family moved around a bit; from New York to Alabama to Georgia. Jamallah’s childhood was mostly spent in Roswell, Georgia.

At the age of twelve, Jamallah started writing scripts for her doll babies. As she got older, her inclination to write grew.

Soon after reading her first romance novel at fifteen; she became hooked on romance and deviated from writing her doll baby stories, to romantically inclined stories.

Her thirst to write eventually sent her from one out of the box experience to another. She eventually engaged her thoughts and writing into writing erotic stories.

As Jamallah’s interest as a reader grew, questions aroused her curiosity. Why were the heroines in the stories she loved so much, nothing like herself. She felt none of the women were full figured, or plump. To coin a phrase from the well known comedienne Mo’Nique, like “Thick Madame”, a thick and curvy woman.

Often she became upset because she felt there should be stories out there about all types of women, including thick, beautiful women like herself. Why were there no stories about full figured women who got the handsome hunk? She would ask herself after reading another romance story where the beautiful main character was thin.

After researching and finding very few stories about curvy women, Jamallah thought it was time the romance readers market read more stories about full figured heroines.

She started to write stories where the full figured woman ‘ALWAYS’ got her man!

BUY LINKS

Amazon US
Amazon UK 
Barnes and Noble 
ARE
SCP
Bookstrand

CONTACT INFO

Contact Info:

Webpage: http://jamallahbergmansstoriesoflove.weebly.com/

Twitter: @silentbutloud1

Email: jamallahbergman73@gmail.com

Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/jamallahbergmanauthor

My Romance Novel Center Profile: http://www.romancenovelcenter.com/jamallahbergman

Jamallah, thank you so much for stopping by the blog. I’m a huge fan!

~Val