Constance Phillips's Blog, page 12
July 27, 2015
Vineyards of Calanetti Release Day Blitz
The Vineyards of Calanetti
Return of the Italian Tycoon
by Jennifer Faye
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Amazon | Amazon – UK | Barnes & Noble | Harlequin | Kobo | iTunes | Books-A-Million
Promoted…to wife?
Tough tycoon Angelo Amatucci must return to the Tuscan village of his childhood. With a lot of work to do, he brings his dedicated assistant Kayla Hill with him.
As beautiful Kayla falls for the village’s charms, she also discovers a new, very attractive side to Angelo—working with him to secure a wedding contract is blissful torture! Especially as Kayla begins to wonder what it would be like to be Mrs. Amatucci…
The Vineyards of Calanetti
Saying “I do” under the Tuscan sun…
Award-winning author, Jennifer Faye pens fun, heartwarming romances. Step into the pages of exciting destinations with rugged cowboys, sexy tycoons & enchanting royalty. Jennifer is a two-time winner of the RT Book Reviews Reviewers’ Choice Award, named a TOP PICK author, and been nominated for numerous awards. Now living her dream, she resides with her patient husband, amazing daughter (the other remarkable daughter is off chasing her own dreams) and two spoiled cats.
Author Media Links
Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Google+ | Tsu
Amazon / Barnes and Noble / iTunes / Harlequin
Holiday romance on the menu?
Passionate chef Rafe Mancini is renowned for his food—and his temper! No one meets his exacting standards, until stand-in maître d’ Daniella Tate breathes new life into his restaurant, and Rafe…
Daniella is only visiting the picturesque Tuscan village of Calanetti, but with Rafe she finds the sense of belonging she’s always craved. Clutching her ticket home, Daniella must make a decision…return to her old, safe life or stay as Rafe’s bride!
The Vineyards of Calanetti
Saying “I do” under the Tuscan sun…
Amazon / Barnes and Noble / iTunes / Harlequin
The tortured hero’s happily-ever-after
Former navy SEAL Connor Benson is in beautiful Tuscany, but he can’t forget his time on the frontline. Meeting beautiful Isabella Rossi reminds him of everything he once fought for…and everything he can’t have.
Isabella understands what it’s like to be stuck in the past—since becoming a widow she’s been sleepwalking through life. But handsome Connor’s delicious kisses are waking her up, and his courage inspires her: she must fight for the love they both deserve!The Vineyards of Calanetti
Saying “I do” under the Tuscan sun…
Amazon / Barnes and Noble / iTunes / Harlequin
She’s back in Calanetti…
After a vacation in paradise, Marianna Amatucci returned to her family vineyard determined to make a fresh start. But her plans changed in an instant when two blue lines on a pregnancy test revealed she’d returned with a souvenir!
When she finds the father, Ryan White, he’s nothing like the laid-back surfer she met on the beach. In a tailored suit, he oozes masculine authority, and he’s staying in the penthouse! What will walking into his high-flying corporate world mean for their baby…?
The Vineyards of Calanetti
Saying “I do” under the Tuscan sun…
July 24, 2015
Friday Featured Author: Katie O’Sullivan
Crazy About youThis week’s featured author is one of my personal favorites! I’m so happy to share a bit about Katie O’Sullivan with all of you. Her sweet stories that are full of adventure is just one of the reasons she’s a go-to author for me.
Before we get to the interview and her new release, Crazy About You, here is a bit about Katie.
About Katie:
Katie O’Sullivan lives with her family and big dogs on Cape Cod, drinking way too much coffee and inventing new excuses not to dust. Living next to the Atlantic influences everything she writes, from her Cape Cod romances to her YA series about the mermaids who live near her beach. A recovering English major, she earned her degree at Colgate University and now writes romance and adventure for young adults, and something steamier for the young at heart.
Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page
The Interview:
Tell us about your latest release.
CRAZY ABOUT YOU is my second romance with The Wild Rose Press that’s set on the shores of Cape Cod. The first was MY KIND OF CRAZY, set in Harwich in the off-season filled with down-to-earth locals. This story is set on the tip of the Cape in Provincetown, during the height of tourist season. Provincetown is a totally unique place, and it was fun to set my story amidst the colorful characters who migrate there in the summer. Here’s the blurb:
Climate scientist Chase Anderson races from one project to the next, unwilling to slow down in his quest to save the world’s oceans. He has no time for family or relationships until he crashes into an impetuous blonde with a quirky sense of humor. One sizzling kiss makes him seriously reevaluate his priorities. And his sanity.
Emma Maguire left her small Cape Cod hometown years ago, seeking the fast pace and anonymity of New York City. She’s not sure what she’s searching for, but when a family crisis brings her home to Provincetown she’s caught in a crazy tangle of half-truths and mistaken identity… and falls for the handsome stranger who broke her cell phone.
Will untangling the web of lies drive them crazy, or lead to something even crazier – like love?
Are you a plotter or a pantser?
Totally a pantser, which is unfortunate. I wrote myself into several corners with this book, not knowing why things were happening, just knowing they had to. To unravel the twisted threads, I took a few long walks with my neighbor and our dogs and tried to work it out… the ideas we came up with were a little too outrageous, but it helped open my mind to possibilities. And it was a walk on the beach – always a good idea!
What was the most difficult part of the publishing process for you?
Finding a good small publisher. I’ve been writing and publishing for six years now, and have had a few bad experiences with small presses, either not paying me for my work, or going out of business. Being part of The Wild Rose Press is such a wonderful experience in comparison, and I’m so grateful for the support and camaraderie I’ve found there.
How about the most fun?
Meeting and talking with readers is definitely the best part of being an author. I actually enjoy being at book signings and chatting with people about books because I’m an avid reader myself. I also love getting emails and notes from readers, knowing someone enjoyed what I wrote is such a kick.
What inspired you to write your first book?
I’m one of those authors who always wanted to write. I wrote my first full book the summer before third grade, THE MYSTERY OF THE HAUNTED HOUSE. Original, I know. My aunt printed it for me, doing the illustrations herself, and made 50 copies for me to distribute to friends and family. An old friend recently sent me a photo of her autographed copy that she still has from my very first “book signing.” I was hooked.
The first book I published as an adult came about when my youngest child went off to full-day kindergarten and a friend dragged me to his novel writing class. That class resulted in UNFOLDING THE SHADOWS, which was published by Ellora’s Cave Press in 2009. I recently got the rights returned to me, rewrote the book almost entirely and contracted it with The Wild Rose Press to be published as GHOSTS DON’T LIE. It’s about a reluctant ghost whisperer and her abusive husband, and I just finished the second round of edits this week.
Do you have any writing rituals?
Not really… Well, maybe. Coffee. Lots of coffee. And wine for writing the steamier scenes. And beach walks for working out sticky plot points.
Who is your go-to author?
Besides you, Constance? (I love all your books!) I love Julie James and her smart, sassy heroines, she’s an automatic buy for me. I also love Jennifer Crusie for a fun beach read. She also writes smart, strong women. I recently read the first two Outlander books, and am hooked on Diane Gabaldon. I’ve already purchased book three, but am waiting for my next long plane ride to get started on it.
What projects are you working on at present? Plans for future projects?
I’ve been pretty busy lately. I just re-released the first book of my YA mermaid series with a new publisher, retitled DESCENT from Wicked Whale Publishing. Had a fun launch day last week with 9 other YA authors and a few great library events here on Cape Cod. I’m headed to the pirate museum in Provincetown to promote it next week during Family Week – pirates and mermaids go hand in hand, right? I’m busy rewriting the second book in that series, retitled DEFIANCE, for a December release, and working on book three for next summer.
This spring I wrote a fun novella as part of The Wild Rose Press 2016 Valentine “Candy Hearts” series. My heart was titled “Say Yes” and the story is about a Cape Cod artist and a gallery owner, both looking for second chances in life and love. That’s set to be published in January 2016 as one of the first books in the series. As I mentioned before, I just finished the second round of edits on GHOSTS DON’T LIE, a romantic suspense contracted with The Wild Rose Press. I don’t have a release date yet, but since the book is set in winter, I’m hoping for a winter release date.
Beyond that, I just started a new day job this summer and it’s cutting into my fiction writing time but giving me all sorts of new plot ideas. We’ll see where that leads!
Thanks for having me here today, to celebrate my new release and chat with you! This has been fun!
Crazy About You
Tag Line:
Drawn together by a dead cell phone, it’s the dead body that changes everything.
Blurb:
Climate scientist Chase Anderson races from one project to the next, unwilling to slow down in his quest to save the world’s oceans. He has no time for family or relationships until he crashes into an impetuous blonde with a quirky sense of humor. One sizzling kiss makes him seriously reevaluate his priorities. And his sanity.
Emma Maguire left her small Cape Cod hometown years ago, seeking the fast pace and anonymity of New York City. She’s not sure what she’s searching for, but when a family crisis brings her home to Provincetown she’s caught in a crazy tangle of half-truths and mistaken identity… and falls for the handsome stranger who broke her cell phone.
Will untangling the web of lies drive them crazy, or lead to something even crazier – like love?
Buy Links: AMAZON | THE WILD ROSE PRESS | BARNES & NOBLE |
Look for my review of Crazy About You next week!
An Excerpt from Crazy About You:
A blinding smile lit her face, and she waved with enthusiasm. His heart skipped a few beats as his blood all went lower down.
She beelined to the table, calling his name. “Chase? Chase! It’s so good to see you again! Thanks so much for inviting me to lunch!”
He found himself rising to greet her for the second time inside an hour. Instead of sitting, she came to where he stood and wrapped her arms around his neck. She planted an exaggerated kiss on his cheek, like the one he’d envied Tony for the prior day, those soft red lips wet on his skin. His arms slipped around her waist and his stomach clenched hard, inappropriate thoughts racing through his head at breakneck speed, leaving him dazed. Staring down, he saw similar confusion mirrored in Emma’s eyes, as if she felt it too, that electric current running fast and furious between them at every point where their bodies connected. And she wasn’t letting go.
July 22, 2015
Promo: Jenn Nixon’s Lucky Series
When creating characters for one of my novels, two things happen. 1. I create a general idea of what they look like in my head before I write or 2. They already look like someone I know or have seen – this doesn’t have to be a celebrity either.
One of my favorite things to do is to cast books for TV or Movies. So, here’s my cast ideas for the Lucky Series.
Lucky – 5’10, curvy, unknown Mixed race, curly honey brown hai, amber eyes.
With some modifications, I always thought Zoe Saldana would make a great Lucky. She knows how to kick ass, has tons of geek credit already, which warms my heart, but when I put in that exact description of Lucky in Google, I find this model. Wow, she’s perfect!
Noémie Lenoir
Kenji – 6’4, Half Japanese, Half South African, black hair, blue eyes.
Kenji came to me completely unlike any character I’d written before. I looked online for months and months for someone to convey what Kenji looked like. I figured with a bit of a tan, some contacts, and a wig, Ian Anthony Dale would make a good Kenji. Then, Game of Thrones started and Khal Drogo appeared on my screen. Ho. Lee. Crap. He IS Kenji, hands down, no one else I’ve seen so far comes close. Yum.
Jason Momoa
Phen – 6’0 Caucasian, white hair, hazel eyes, glasses.
Phen looks like Phen in my head, he’s like a mix of all of Batman’s Alfred’s in one. I would say the person that comes the closest to what I see is
John Slattery
Bet – 5’5 Half Caucasian, Half African American, short dark hair, brown eyes.
Bet is another who already had a specific look in my head, she was the shorter, punk-rockier version of Halle Berry but always changing up her hair styles. I think she would make a fantastic Bet.
Jasika Nicole
Author: Jenn Nixson
Publisher: WCP
ISBN: 978-1-61798-157-9
Genre(s): Romance/Suspense/Thriller/Romantic Suspense
Heat Rating: sweet
Length: 99,178
Price: $4.99
Purchase page:
All Romance eBooks: http://bit.ly/LuckysPromiseARe
Amazon: http://bit.ly/LuckysPromise
iTunes: http://bit.ly/LuckysPromiseiTunes
Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/LuckysPromiseBN — this one will be ready by release date
Kobo: http://bit.ly/LuckysPromiseKobo
OmniLit: http://bit.ly/LuckysPromiseOmni
Wild Child: http://bit.ly/LuckysPromiseWCP
Release date: 7/21/15
Author website: www.jennnixon.com
Author contact email: jennafern@gmail.com
Blurb:
After years of searching for her mother’s killer, Felicia “Lucky” Fascino is finally on the right track. With the help of her family, and on-again off-again boyfriend, Kenji Zinn, Lucky is getting closer to fulfilling the unspoken promise she made to her adoptive father.
As the group continues to dig deep into the assassin’s network, and search for the elusive Quimby, ties to the past come back full circle, endangering everyone Lucky loves and cares for. It’s only a matter of time before their secret is uncovered.
Excerpt:
Felicia swung her chair in his direction and said: “Are you going to tell me what’s wrong?”
“No.”
“Why not?” she said, bordering on a screech.
“It is the same conversation. ‘You can trust me, Felicia.’ ‘You can talk to me, Felicia.’ ‘I’m here for you, Felicia.’”
“You’re still mad because I didn’t want to talk about my crappy ass life while we were on vacation?” He lifted an eyebrow to make a statement, and her whole face flushed. “We were on vacation!”
“With no distractions. With no interference. Just you and I…and still you refused me every time I tried.”
“Fine. What do you want to know?” Kenji stared at her as she rose from the chair and hitched her fists on her hips. Her head jerked to the right, both eyebrows lifted on her forehead. “Well?”
“Humph,” he said, tossing the remote onto the bed and stalking into the living room across the hall. She wouldn’t answer his question, so he didn’t even bother asking. He went to the wet bar in the far corner. Searching through the miniature refrigerator, Kenji grumbled, finding nothing but wine.
“Phen and I are going to meet after breakfast and talk about the job.”
He glanced back. Felicia stood in the doorway, her hands in front of her body, fingers twisted together like a frightened child. A complete turnaround, again. It wasn’t an act; everything about her said she was scared. Why? Couldn’t she confide in him by now? His frustration threatened to swell again, and he was backing her into a corner. If he pushed, they would fight, and he didn’t want that. Not right now. Kenji sat down in the leather love seat and rubbed his temple.
She didn’t move from her position, but her heavy sigh filled the room. “It’s my last one before he puts me up as the new safety. I’m going to need some pointers….”
He bobbed his head but didn’t look up.
“Is it more than…me not talking?” she squeaked.
Kenji came close to spilling everything. Forcing her to face the feeling he had for her was unfair. Making her talk when she wasn’t ready seemed cruel. Confessing his fear for her safety would make him appear overprotective and controlling. The fury he felt, he didn’t completely comprehend himself. Discussing the situation with Taro was the only thing he could mention and remain truthful.
“I am still aggravated with myself.”
“I told you outside the restaurant it didn’t matter anymore. It’s over and done. I trust you, and if you trust your brother…it’s cool, babe.” Her disposition continued to change, now that he no longer pressed her.
“It will never happen again,” he said, adding a grumble.
“I know.” She moved into the living room and sat down on the coffee table between the two sofas. Felicia reached out, took his hand. He held back the rest of the clutter racing through his head. She bent her head down to look him in the eyes. “We okay?”
“Yes, beleza, we are.”
July 21, 2015
Tuesday Teaser: Shawna Romkey’s Crow Moon
(¸.•´ ★PRE ORDER CROW MOON
for just 0.99!
Will you be ready when the Crow Moon comes?
When Lenore Devereaux loses her father, she’s sent to live with her eccentric aunt. Leni wants to go off to college and do what her father has always wanted her to do, but the mysteries of her estranged mother’s family lead her to start unraveling the secrets long ago lost and hidden away. Will she be able to find out who she really is while living up to her father’s last wishes, or will the powers of the Crow Moon claim her for itself?
Paranormal | New Adult | American Gothic | Witches | Diverse | Witchcraft
![Crow_Moon_by_Shawna_Romkey-500[4]](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/hostedimages/1437530828i/15595505._SY540_.jpg)
Releases Aug. 19!
Links
Kindle: http://goo.gl/TiIH7f
Nook: http://bit.ly/1CQ10gJ
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1CQ14gl
iBooks: https://goo.gl/HjjE9h
About Shawna Romkey
Shawna grew up around farms in the heart of Missouri but went to the University of Kansas, was raised in the US but now lives on the ocean in Nova Scotia with her husband, two sons, one rescue dog and one overgrown puppy from hell. She’s a non-conformist who follows her heart.
She’s taught English at the university and secondary levels for close to twenty years and can’t quite fathom how all of her students have grown up, yet she’s managed to stay the same. She’s a huge geek and fan of Xena, Buffy and all kick ass women, and loves to write stories that have strong female characters.
July 14, 2015
Tuesday Teaser: Descent by Katie O’Sullivan
![Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000032_00038]](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/hostedimages/1436975731i/15524353._SY540_.jpg)
About the Book:
Shea MacNamara’s life just got complicated. When a freak tornado devastates his Oklahoma farm, fifteen-year-old Shea moves to Cape Cod to live with a grandmother he’s never met. Struggling to make sense of his new surroundings, he meets a girl along the shore who changes his life forever.
Kae belongs to an undersea world hidden from humans, where bloody war rages between opposing clans. A fragile peace accord hinges on marriage between the royal families, but treachery and magick lurk in every shadow.
With Kae’s help, Shea discovers his true heritage and finds that his destiny lies somewhere far below the ocean’s surface.
EXCERPT:
The blue-green coolness swirled around him as his body tumbled through the water, arms and legs flailing. He struggled to hold his breath. Millions of tiny bubbles of precious air traced the path of his descent, escaping from his clothing and through his nose.
Eyes wide, he watched a huge school of shimmering minnows part down the middle as they swam around him, surrounding him like a silvery box. Turning his face upward to the surface, he could see the blue sky receding further and further while he sank deeper into the water’s depths.
His throat and lungs burned from the effort of holding his breath. Darkness pressed hard against his eyes, and swirls of strange colors danced in front of him. His whole body strained against the lack of oxygen.
I need to breathe, he thought wildly, his whole body feeling like it was on fire. I can’t hold out much longer. His feet hit the mucky bottom with a thud, coming to a stop. The mud swirled around his legs.
There, hovering before him in the water, swam a beautiful woman with flowing golden hair…and a green fish tail, golden flecks sparkling among the scales.
A mermaid.
Her big green eyes looked familiar, just like the ones he saw in the mirror every morning. She smiled at him, reaching for his hand. His head pounded while searing pain ripped through his throat, as if his entire body would tear apart any second from the effort of holding his breath.
The mermaid squeezed his hand and the pain receded. Shea stared into her eyes, lost in their green depths. He opened his mouth to exhale the stale air that pounded like a jackhammer in his lungs. Large bubbles rushed to the surface. He struggled to breathe, but there was no air, only salty ocean water rushing in to fill his mouth, his lungs, his body…
Shea woke with a start, clawing at the sheets and disoriented for a full minute before remembering where he was. At the Hansen’s house. Because his own home – the farm where he’d lived and worked all his life – was gone, swept away and crushed by the freak tornado.
And his dad was nowhere to be found.
Want a chance to win Decent?
Goodreads Book Giveaway
Descent
by Katie O’Sullivan
Giveaway ends July 29, 2015.
See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.
About the Author:
Katie O’Sullivan lives with her family and big dogs on Cape Cod, drinking way too much coffee and inventing new excuses not to dust. Living next to the Atlantic influences everything she writes, including her YA series about the mermaids who live near her beach. A recovering English major, she earned her degree at Colgate University and now writes romance and adventure for young adults, and something steamier for the young at heart.
Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page
DESCENT BUY LINK:
AMAZON: http://amzn.to/1UYOKjK
July 10, 2015
Friday Featured Author: Desiree Holt
This week’s featured author is Desiree Holt!
Before we get to the interview…here’s a little bit about Desiree:
SONY DSC
Known the world over as The Oldest Living Erotic Romance Author, Desiree Holt
Has won an EPIC E-Book Award, the Holt Medallion and many other awards. She has been featured on CBS Sunday Morning and in The Village Voice, The Daily Beast, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, The London Daily Mail and numerous other national and international publications
“Get out the ice water and fan…Desiree Holt delivers smoking hot alpha heroes and red hot romances.” Lea Franczak, USA Today Happy Ever After blog
Learn more about her and read her novels here:
www.facebook.com/desireeholtauthor
Twitter @desireeholt
Pinterest: desiree02holt
Google: www.desiree02holt
LinkedIn: www.LinkedIn.com/desiree01holt
The Interview:
Tell us about your latest release?
I am such a football fanatic. Everything a out it fascinates me, which is why I finally took the time to craft a series, Game On. It’s the story of a hero-worshipping little girl who grows up to be a desirable woman and the former football player she has always been in love with. They have a lot of challenges to work through but I loved helping them jump through those hoops. If you like football and sex, this is the book for you.
Are you a plotter or pantser?
Maybe a little b it of both. I was always a pantser but when my writing schedule got so crowded I had to become a somewhat ploter, also. But my stories are character drive, so even if I have an outline of a plot, my characters can change it as I work my way through the story.
What was the most difficult part of the publishing process for you?
Making that first sale. I had 137 rejections before someone took a chance on me, but I never gave up. But lordy, it was very frustrating watching people around me sign contracts while I kept getting those rejections. I stuck to it, though, and I am so glad I did. Writing is my first love, after my family.
How about the most fun?
The most fun is creating the characters and seeing where they take the story. I love creating characters and play the What If game a lot. I cam be out eating with my family (trying not to embarrass them too much) and I’ll see someone who looks interesting. I’ll sit and she What if he/or she did such and such? Love seeing where that takes me.
What inspired you to write your first book?
That’s a two-pronged answer. I always said when I retired and had the time I’d write but I planned to write mysteries. That’s all I ever read. I did not read my first romance novel until 2004. But I could not seem to get past the first 3 chapters of that book. Then I read Cry No More by Linda Howard, fell in love with r/s, wrote that first book and I was off.
Do you have any writing rituals? (Time of day to write, must have beverages? Etc?)
I’m a very disciplined writer. Two hours in the morning to answer emails and take care of other business, a little more if I have a lot of promoting to do online. An hour on my treadmill then I write for six hours. Sometimes I have notes I made the night before, sometimes it doesn’t come to me until I’m in the shower (I create A LOT in the shower!). Break for late afternoon relaxation, eat dinner, then read and watch television. I also keep a notebook with me so I can jot those late at night ideas down. I think I need to make better notes, though, because today I have a great section I scratched out to go in my current WIP but I can’t for the life of me figure out where I wanted to put it
Who is your go-to author, the one you know you can always count on to deliver a great story?
I have a few but at the top of the list is Marie Force. I discovered her almost two years ago when her first McCarthys of Gansett Island book was on Bookbub and I have bought ever book since then. Some authors get to a point where I almost think they are phoning it in but not Marie. Every story is new and fresh and exciting. I think I want to be her when I grow up!
What projects are you working on at the present?
Finishing up Wet Heat, part of Cat Johnson’s Hot SEALs Kindle World. Then it’s Bound By Desire or a BDSM collection. I have a second BDSM novella after that (to be named). After that another in the Rawhide series, anther in the Naked Cowboys series, another in my rock star series and late this fall I will be launching a new action/adventure/romance series, Northern Star, set in Alaska. I’m sure I’m forgetting something! (LOL!)
What do your plans for future projects include?
At least 4 stories in Northern Star, a continuation of Rawhide, revising a series The Protectors for rerelease, rereleasing several of my old title with some fluffing and dusting and exciting new covers, and a series of short novellas about a community of 55 and older couples. Stay tuned!
Desiree Holt: Forward Pass (Game ON: Book One)Shay Beckham grew up idolizing her brother’s best friend, star quarterback Joe Reilly. There was no one in their Texas town who had the moves to match Joe on or off the field. Years later, he’s still a player who has what it takes to drive any hot-blooded woman wild. But Shay isn’t a kid with a bad case of hero-worship anymore. She’s grown-up and independent, with her feet on the ground and a serious head on her shoulders. If she could just say the same for Joe.
It’s been fifteen years, but Joe Reilly hasn’t forgotten the skinny little kid who used to follow him around like a shadow. What he can’t get over is that the skinny shadow has grown into one hell of an incredible woman. One any man in his right mind would kill to get his hands on. And one who seems to be completely immune to him. He knows he and Shay could have something special together. If he could only convince her he’s about more than just the game.
BUY: Amazon | Kensington | Kobo | iTunes | B&N
July 7, 2015
Tuesday Teaser: Forward Pass by Desiree Holt
Forward Pass
by Desiree Holt
Genre: Erotic Contemporary Sports Romance
Amazon
Kensington
Kobo
iTunes
B&N
Get Ready to Play Rough
Shay Beckham grew up idolizing her brother’s best friend, star quarterback Joe Reilly. There was no one in their Texas town who had the moves to match Joe on or off the field. Years later, he’s still a player who has what it takes to drive any hot-blooded woman wild. But Shay isn’t a kid with a bad case of hero-worship anymore. She’s grown-up and independent, with her feet on the ground and a serious head on her shoulders. If she could just say the same for Joe.
It’s been fifteen years, but Joe Reilly hasn’t forgotten the skinny little kid who used to follow him around like a shadow. What he can’t get over is that the skinny shadow has grown into one hell of an incredible woman. One any man in his right mind would kill to get his hands on. And one who seems to be completely immune to him. He knows he and Shay could have something special together. If he could only convince her he’s about more than just the game.
81,521 Words
Known the world over as The Oldest Living Erotica Author, Desiree Holt proves every day that she is more than the sum of her years and more than the grandmother who plays with Barbie and Ken dolls: She is The Hardest Working Erotica Author, producing one novel or more each month and receiving rave reviews.
She is twice a finalist for an EPIC E-Book Award, a nominee for a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award, winner of the first 5 Heart Sweetheart of the Year Award at The Romance Studio as well as twice a CAPA Award for best BDSM book of the year, winner of the Holt Medallion, multiple winner of the Whipped Cream Book of the Week Award and is published by five different houses. She has been featured on CBS Sunday Morning and in The Village Voice, The Daily Beast, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, The London Daily Mail and numerous other national and international publications.
“Get out the ice water and fan…Desiree Holt delivers smoking hot alpha heroes and red hot romances.” Lea Franczak, USA Today Happy Ever After blog
Learn more about her and read her novels here:
www.desireeholt.com
www.desiremeonly.com
www.facebook.com/desireeholtauthor
www.facebook.com/desireeholt
Twitter @desireeholt
Pinterest: desiree02holt
Google: www.desiree02holt
LinkedIn: www.LinkedIn.com/desiree01holt
July 3, 2015
Friday Featured Author: Tamara Ferguson
Today’s Featured Author is Tamara Ferguson. Before we get to the interview and her latest release, let me tell you a little bit about Tamara!
Bio
A member of the Romance Writers of America, as well as the FTHRW Chapter, Tamara Ferguson is the top-ten, best-selling and multi-award winning author of the Kissed By Fate Romance Series and the Tales of The Dragonfly Romance Suspense Series. Tales of the Dragonfly Book II: In Flight was a 2014 WINNER at the Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards. Her latest release, That Unforgettable Kiss was recently a top ten Amazon bestseller in Kindle Saga Fiction and has just received 3-5★editorial reviews from Readers’ Favorite.
Since she’s the mom and full-time caregiver of a severely autistic son, you can usually find Tammy working at home, where she spends a lot of time not completing numerous home improvement projects because she’s writing or helping indie authors promote their books on twitter.
Find Tamara: Facebook | Google+ | Linked In | Blog | Amazon Author Page
Websites:
http://www.TalesOfTheDragonflyTheBook.com
Email:
The Interview
Tell us about your latest release?
Two Hearts Surrendered is my contribution to the Magical Weddings Anthology.
Luke Bryant and Kelly Callahan met on the beach at Dragonfly Pointe when thirteen-year old Luke saved six-year old Kelly from drowning. He and Kelly shared an undeniable connection through their childhood. But with his tarnished past, Luke refuses to act on the attraction he begins feeling for her.
When he finally comes home on leave from the Air Force, and attends the Magical Wedding of Kelly’s sister Kate (That Unforgettable Kiss), Luke and Kelly spend an enchanting night together. They simply can’t help themselves – they’ve loved each other nearly their entire lives.
College student Kelly has everything going for her – she’s beautiful, smart and intelligent. So when Luke eventually returns home from Iraq as a wounded warrior, despite the fact that he doesn’t appear to want anything to do with her, she refuses to give up on him. It’s not about his looks, or his past – it’s all about the connection they’ve shared since they were kids. Fate has always meant for them to be together – she’s sure of it. But will Kelly ever be able to convince Luke to surrender his heart?
Are you a plotter or pantser?
Do I plot out my stories? Yes and no. I begin with a simple outline that includes my primary conflict and a prologue with action to (hopefully) hook the reader – even for my romance without the suspense! Once I’ve completed about twenty-five percent of my story, I sit down and write up some very simple chapter outlines, and usually, by then, I’ve decided how I’ll resolve my conflict.
What was the most difficult part of the publishing process for you?
Despite the fact that my contribution is a novella, the most difficult part for me was the time limit I had for writing and editing one of the most complicated stories I’ve ever written.
The first thing that popped into my head when I was asked if I’d like to contribute a story to Magical Weddings was this: why not try writing something a little different from what I’m accustomed to? Military stories are very popular these days. But with some of the terrible things happening in the world today, what I wanted was to get into the head of my character, who was returning home as a wounded warrior. Luke Bryant had struggles to begin with – he was abused as a child. It’s my heroine’s ability to believe in their love and to stand by his side, even though my hero is effectively attempting to shut Kelly Callahan out of his life – that eventually leads them to an enchanting happily-ever-after.
How about the most fun?
Enjoying the stories written by the other authors included in this anthology. We’re such a diverse group – contemporary, historical and fantasy – there’s something for everyone. I can’t tell you how excited I am to be included with this group of authors from all across the globe!
Our Magical Weddings headliner is Leigh Michaels, a national bestselling author who’s written over 100 novels. Leigh’s story is a lovely historical romance – Her Wedding Wager – about a heroine whose future is dependent on a bet. Aileen Harkwood’s contribution is The Last Wedding At Drayhome – an enchanting story about a witch and warlock – and a love too long denied.
Eve Devon’s captivating love story , The Dress, spans time – through a dress weaved with magic, while USA Today bestselling author Raine English has written Second Chance Bride, a charming story about a bride who might’ve chosen the wrong groom – as communicated by a telepathic rescue dog!
In Something Borrowed, Something Blue, Lynda Haviland’s heroine has a wedding to crash, before love gets in the way. And Jody A. Kessler’s Heart Of The Secret involves a curse, and a witch who will do anything to marry her true love.
How can she fight a calling from her soul? The heroine faces a dilemma in Jane Lark’s The Jealous Love Of A Scoundrel. Bess McBride’s contribution is A Wedding Across the Winds Of Time – about a couple who’re ready to be married, after finding each other through time.
In Kiss This, written by L.L. Muir, the florist actually catches the bouquet! Jennifer Gilby Roberts’ contribution is Caution is a Virture, about a heroine who’s afraid to take a risk with love. And Loving Lindy by Jan Romes? It’s a delightful story about a couple who pretend to be engaged, until real feelings get in their way.
Heather Thurmeier has written With This Kiss – about a kiss that could prove to be magical. Real Magic is by Elsa Winckler. Can a magical evening transform into reality? And unexpected guests may forever change the lives of a soon-to-be married couple in The Wedding Guests by Sarah Wynde.
What inspired you to write your first book?
Besides the fact that I’ve always loved to read and write, for years, there’ ve been threats of disability funding cuts for individuals like my son in the state of Illinois – even though Illinois is already at the bottom of the list for all states in what they provide. I began writing about six years ago, kind of hoping I might be successful, so I’d have something to fall back on in case it happened. And our funding crisis is beginning now – as of July 1, 2015.
Do you have any writing rituals? (Time of day to write, must have beverages? Etc?)
Some writers can sit down and write effectively at any time of the day – but not me. So I try to stick to a schedule when I’m deep into writing my next novel. Writing once I wake up after a decent nights sleep seems to work the best for me. As the mom of a demanding autistic son, it’s my concentration level that’s usually affected after about six to eight hours of interruptions. Oh – and I drink LOTS of coffee!!
What projects are you working on at the present?
I’ve been working on my next installment of Romantic Suspense – Tales of the Dragonfly Book III: Emergence. This is the story of Lucy Callahan, the eighteen-year old girl who was kidnapped and assaulted in Book I: In Tandem. The members of the human trafficking ring who were responsible for capturing her have remained at-large. It’s nearly a year later, and Lucy’s still having troubles recovering from her ordeal when she realizes she’s being stalked by the man who raped her. Her inner strength shines through when she assists the FBI and confronts her rapist – while falling in love with the former FBI agent who’s acting as her bodyguard. Lucy lives and works in Gabe Giordano’s home, as his seven-year old daughter’s nanny, while attending the college where Gabe has become an instructor.
With the success of That Unforgettable Kiss(Kissed By Fate Book 1), I’ve also begun the next installment of new adult romance, That Unexpected Kiss.
What do your plans for future projects include?
Many new beginnings – with a touch of magic – at the fated Dragonfly Pointe.
MAGICAL WEDDINGS: 15 Enchanting Romances
If you love contemporary wedding romance, enjoy a touch of the paranormal–witches, psychic pets, ghosts–or if your favorite beach read is romantic comedy, historical or military romance, don’t miss this engaging boxed set!
–All stand-alone wedding stories (no cliffhangers)
–Includes 14 New Releases written expressly for this set
–Limited time only (Buy your copy now!)
15 Romances by USA Today and National Bestselling Authors
Whether real or only in the hearts of the bride and groom, the magic of weddings is undeniable. And irresistible! As these 15 enchanting happily-ever-afters by bestselling and award-winning authors prove.
From sweet to spicy, the romances bundled into this set cross time and unite hearts, cast spells of laughter, battle wedding jitters and fight back tears, while weaving love’s hopeful magic throughout 1400 pages.
Her Wedding Wager by Leigh Michaels, National bestselling and Award-winning author. Unless Celia can marry a titled gentleman before Lady Stone’s house party ends, she’ll end up in an arranged marriage with her distant cousin Simon. It’s Simon who’s wagered she can’t win the most important bet of her life, so why is he the only one who can hold her attention?
The Last Wedding at Drayhome (Breens Mist Witches) by Aileen Harkwood, author of paranormal and fantasy romance. Never underestimate the power of a witch and warlock in love who have nothing left to lose.
The Dress by Eve Devon. Two couples, 400 years apart. From a masquerade ball in Venice 1615 to a wedding in England 2015, can a dress laced with magic weave its spell through the fabric of time?
Second Chance Bride by Raine English, USA Today bestselling and Award-winning author. She thinks she’s marrying the man of her dreams, until a telepathic rescue dog leads her to someone else… Will this bride-to-be say “I do” to the wrong man?
Two Hearts Surrendered by Tamara Ferguson, Bestselling and Award-winning author. After years of fighting their feelings, Kelly and Luke share a night of passion at her sister’s wedding. But will one night of enchantment be strong enough magic for Luke to surrender his heart to the woman he loves – once this military hero returns home as a disheartened wounded warrior?
Something Borrowed, Something Blue by Lynda Haviland. She has a wedding to crash–until love gets in the way!
Heart of the Secret (Witches of Lane County) by Jody A. Kessler, Bestselling and Award-winning author of new adult paranormal romance. A 500 year-old curse, a witch who will do anything to marry her one true love, and the heart of a secret that will either divide them or bring them together…forever.
The Jealous Love of a Scoundrel by Jane Lark, National bestselling author of Regency historical romance. How do you fight a calling that comes from your soul?
A Wedding Across the Winds of Time by Bess McBride, National bestselling author of time travel romance. Darius and Molly found each other Across the Winds of Time. Now, it’s time for their wedding!
Kiss This by L.L. Muir, National bestselling and Award-winning author. You never expect the florist to catch the bouquet…
Caution is a Virtue by Jennifer Gilby Roberts, author of Regency romance and women’s fiction. How much is too much to risk for love?
Loving Lindy by Jan Romes. In order to become the bank’s new Vice President, Gunther Justin has to be “settled.” With Lindy McPherson posing as his fiancé everything is set to go off without a hitch–until real feelings get in the way.
With this Kiss by Heather Thurmeier. Can a simple kiss under the Bridge of Sighs wield enough magic to reunite former lovers, or will what happens in Vegas simply stay in Vegas?
Real Magic by Elsa Winckler. She’s the bridesmaid, he’s a best man. Will the magical evening stay just that or will it turn out to be real after all?
The Wedding Guests (A Tassamara Short Story) by Sarah Wynde. When unexpected guests attend Akira and Zane’s wedding, lives will change forever. But for better or for worse?
BUY:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1GEDBPe
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1ewV9SE
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/1dyBCRp
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1SrS6us
iTunes: http://apple.co/1RcL2Ai
GooglePlay: http://bit.ly/1emycBp
June 30, 2015
Tuesday Teaser: Jean Murray’s Soul Awakened
Today’s Tuesday Teaser is Soul Awakened by Jean Murray.
LOVE FOR BLOOD OR HONOR
Kendra, an Egyptologist and demi-god in waiting, is the key to unlocking Bakari, the Egyptian God of Death, from his cursed slumber. Desperate to free him, she inadvertently binds herself to the god with a spell that only death will undo. To save Bakari from himself, she may have to sacrifice her innocence, and possibly her soul, before he becomes his family’s worst enemy.
HAUNTED BY SINS OF THE PAST
Bakari awakens to a world at war and a beautiful woman who has tethered his soul to hers. In the wake of his self-destruction Kendra is his only hope of salvation, but another has vowed to keep Bakari from the one thing he craves most– his Parvana. His butterfly.
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Buy Today!
REVIEWS
Night Owl Reviews: Reviewer’s Top PICK/ 5 Stars (Abigail, Feb2013) : “I know other readers are going to love this series as much as I do. Get settled in for a thrilling paranormal tale.” http://www.nightowlreviews.com/V5/Reviews/Angibabi4-reviews-Soul-Awakened-by-Jean-Murray
Bitten by Paranormal Romance, Ollie (Feb2013): 5/5 Alpha Howls, Hot
“I don’t know where to begin to describe the absolutely marvelous job that the author does in not only creating a wonderful world with so much depth and detail, but a story line the has the mystery and intrigue that will keep you glued to the pages.”
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16484518-soul-awakened
Releases July 1, 2015
Get your copy today and have it delivered to your Kindle July 1st.
CLICK: BUY SOUL AWAKENED TODAY!
EXCERPT OF SOUL AWAKENED
Kendra commanded herself to march straight out the door. Enough of this bleeding heart stuff. If only she could take that next step toward freedom. She sighed heavily. Who was she fooling? She wasn’t going anywhere other than straight to his bed. Heck, she had bled, almost died, and ran naked into his frigid subconscious in less than twenty-four hours of knowing him.
She had no sense of self-preservation.
Bakari lay in the center of the enormous bed. The size of two kings put together. She couldn’t very well assess him from her vantage point. Climbing in bed with him uninvited caused her heart to flutter. What if Bomani walked in? How would she explain this?
Irritated with her thoughts, she stepped on the sideboard and hoisted herself on the thick plush mattress. The bed barely moved or compressed under her dainty weight. She didn’t want to wake him or least that was the plan.
Check on him and go. Yep.
Thankfully, he didn’t move as she crept closer on her hands and knees. His body contracted tighter and he shook his head against the covers. Maybe she could break the nightmare with a light touch. It seemed to lessen his pain before in his cell.
With her weight on her right hand and knees, she reached out and gently brushed his damp black hair out of his face. Surprisingly, it was soft and shiny now and all the white had faded. He must have washed it sometime before she arrived.
She moved her knees forward and sat back on her heels with her hands on her thighs. Too scared before to take in his features, she measured his face in an unrushed appreciation. His cheeks had filled out from last night. The muscles in his jaw twitched, as he clenched and unclenched his teeth in his sleep. His skin had warmed to an olive tone. Not bad for what little food he had eaten.
She traced the angle of his cheekbone to his full jaw with her fingertip. He had Asar’s facial structure. Her finger stopped at his chin. She mentally traced the line of his mouth. His lips were perfect in size and shape. She pressed her lips together and wet them with her tongue.
Startled, she snapped her gaze away. Why the heck was she wondering what it would be like to kiss him? She had really lost her marbles. A virgin, but not a saint? Bad girl, she scolded herself. Now as she looked at herself kneeling uninvited on a man’s bed while he slept, it seemed even dirtier. She needed to have her head examined.
Holding her breath, she placed her palms on the mattress and pushed away toward the edge of the bed. She was getting the heck out of here. Her toes breached the outer seam.
A low growl preceded large hands clamping on her shoulders and flipping her in the air. The ceiling and black silk sheets flashed in her field of view before her back found the mattress and her head flopped into the pillow. She yelped as Bakari’s hard male body pressed her firmly into the padding. In one hand he pinned her wrists above her head. Despite being severely underweight, his torso and pelvis heavily restrained her.
“Did you see something you did not like, Parvana?”
Ready to read more Key to the Cursed Series?
Just click pre-order for the next book!
Series Pre-order / Release schedule
Soul Reborn – Book 1
Pre-order NOW / Release April 1st
Soul Unbound – Book 3
Pre-order on July 1st / Release Oct 1st
Soul Unleashed – Book 4
Pre-order on Oct 1st / Release Jan 1st
Soul Sacrificed – Book 5
Pre-order on Jan 1st / Release Apr 1st
“Only the strongest love can unlock the souls of the Underworld.”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
June 29, 2015
Fairyproof Relaunch, Blog Tour, .99 Sale
To celebrate the relaunch of Fairyproof, the book is on sale for .99 at Amazon. You can also get the book for .99 by using the coupon code YC85X at Smashwords. This sale and coupon is only valid for a limited time.
After her parents’ death and an unwanted proposal, fairy Monique seeks refuge in the human world. Her brother has warned her of the dangers, but she believes hiding will be a breeze. She can control any human with a flirtatious smile and an attraction spell. Until she meets Daniel Elliot, the only human who’s immune to both.
Can Monique’s brother find her and bring her home before she falls victim to whoever is killing fairies on the human world?
Will the reason Daniel’s fairyproof be too much for them to overcome?
The book is also on a blog tour. You can find reviews, promo pieces, interviews, etc at the following blogs on the given dates.
6/29-Ebooks Galore
6/30-Undercover Book Review
7/1-she READS
7/2-Bookworm Bridgette’s World
7/3-2 Bibliophiles
7/4-LBM Book Blog
7/5-A Bit Bookish
7/6-Dreamer Talks Books
7/7-Amanda’s Blog
7/8-Midnight Angel Book Heaven
7/9-Spreading the Word
7/10-Eskimo Princess Book Reviews
7/11-Shelly’s Books
7/12-A Book Addicts Delight
7/13-Sapphyria’s Steamy Reads
7/14-Literature Litehouse
7/15-Room With Books
7/16-Wing Beat Guest Blogs
7/17-Book Reviews & Takeovers
7/18-Carly’s Cozy Corner
7/19-Danielle’s Domain
7/20-My Reading Reality
7/21-Ebook Addicts
7/22-Carpe_Diem
7/23-We Read With A Glass of Wine
7/24-The Color of Ink
7/25-One Book Boyfriend At A Time
7/26-Shannan’s World of Books
7/27-Author Sandra Love
7/28-Literary Nook
And finally….Please join us beginning later today for the Facebook party. Twenty-four hours of fun and games with some awesome authors. Check it out here!
