Karen Swart's Blog, page 32

Book blast & Giveaway: Conceiving Evil by @jennafoxrox

   BOOK INFORMATION

TITLE – Conceiving Evil AUTHOR – Jenna Fox GENRE – Erotic/Suspense with light BDSM and horror themes PUBLICATION DATE – October 16th 2014 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 35 pages/10,577 words PUBLISHER – Dark Hollows Press COVER ARTIST – 3 Rusted Spoons

  BOOK SYNOPSIS

A dark, chilling romance. Fall in love with the ultimate bad guy.

Like everyone else after the economic crash, Abby Torrance was struggling financially. But then Dorian Lincoln, a political and business icon, sweeps her off her feet and into a life of promise. He’s a man who has enough power to change the world for the better, a man who can give hope to the masses, a man who can give Abby a baby.

But the road to Hell is paved with good intentions and Abby is having strange dreams that seem both a warning and a prophesy. How can she give the evil undertones of her dreams any notice when she’s busy focusing on conceiving?

     BUY & TBR LINKS

AMAZON KINDLE US – AMAZON KINDLE CA – AMAZON KINDLE UK – ALL ROMANCE – BARNES & NOBLES NOOK – GOODREADS – SHELFARI

  EXCERPT

Dammit to hell. I can’t even enjoy a movie.

The nighttime air bit at my skin as thoughts of him chomped at my brain. He’d polluted me like a poison that spread throughout my mind and body, seizing every thought, leaving no rest. I loved horror movies and yet I couldn’t recall a single scene. Jimmie kept glancing at me, concern etching his face all the way through the ninety-minute show.

Soon Jimmie and I walked out of the theater, my hand resting in the crook of his elbow. Bitterness raged inside, heating my face against the breeze when I saw the limo roll toward us. He found me like he always said he would, but three fucking hours late.

I knew I wasn’t Dorian’s top priority, and I’d made some progress at keeping my jealousy under control, but no woman wanted to be shoved to the side every time it was convenient for a man. I tightened my grip on Jimmie’s sleeve and pulled him along just as the driver stepped into our path. I gave the chauffeur a shotgun-glare as he motioned me to the car. “Miss Torrance, Mr. Lincoln is waiting.”

My heart skipped ten beats, I couldn’t tear my eyes away when the dark window lowered and Dorian tousled his ebony hair with his fingers. He wasn’t in his usual attire, a business suit. Tonight he presented himself in casual wear. His sharp, handsome features were expressionless.

I closed my eyes, digging deep for the strength to tell him to get lost for standing me up, but I knew the words would never make it past my lips. I was a fool to entertain the thought. One look from those black eyes sifted me like wheat. Dorian practically owned me. That man was my tempter and my savior wrapped into one.

I met him at the lowest point of my life, after my mother died of cancer. The three jobs I was working to keep my head above water and pay off her medical bills were about to do me in physically. While I was waiting tables at the country club, Dorian swooped in from out of nowhere and rescued me like an injured bird. His amazing sixth sense alerted him that life was too much for me, and he offered me a strong shoulder to cry on. The floodgates opened and I unloaded my personal problems. Dorian Lincoln promised those problems would disappear with a simple acceptance of his proposition: give him power over my body, something Bianca wouldn’t allow.

Lifting my palm to Jimmie’s cheek, I smiled. “Thanks for the movie. I’ll call you next week.”

“He’s a prick. You deserve better, Abby!” Jimmie yelled, as I eased myself inside the limo.

Dorian opened a small refrigerator under the seat, his hands cupping the base of a champagne glass. “You’ve wasted no time finding another way of entertaining yourself this evening.”

“You wasted no time in standing me up,” I scoffed.

When I left his office that afternoon, Dorian said he wanted me for some ‘quality time.’ Eight-thirty rolled around before I realized he was a no-show. The food got cold and eventually the long stemmed candles I lit for dinner burned out, along with my patience.

“Meetings...clients,” he said.

Top secret meetings and clients were always the excuse. The coldness in his voice was a sword to my heart, a reminder of my temporary ranking in his life. I held on tight to his promise of our relationship becoming more when the time was right.

His stony expression broke into a devious grin. “You look beautiful in that dress and your enthusiasm is charming. But watching you masturbate will reimburse me, Miss Torrance.”

My stomach dropped and quivered as I pressed my thighs together. He was going to punish me.

I tugged at the straps of the red shoes he’d bought me, eyeing him as he sipped from the flute and moved his gaze toward the window. Overtaken by the need to be the object of his fascination, I almost begged him to turn those onyx eyes back on me. His attention was the only thing that kept me from going under.

“Dorian, please I-”

My words were cut off with the sharp turn of his head. Relief came in a warm caress, but suspicion moved in with a lift of his brow. The small amount of light coming through the tinted windows deepened the masculine angles of his face, lending them a sternness that echoed in his voice.

“No other men. I thought I was quite clear about that when we discussed the terms of our agreement, three months ago.”

“Jimmie is just a friend.”

“Jimmie is a man. A distraction.”

“A distraction from being pissed. I don’t like being stood up.”

I sounded so offended, but I had no right. Closing my eyes I regrouped, reminding myself that I freely agreed to make myself available to him. Dorian kept up his end of the arrangement. He took care of me, changed my life for the better. My phone stopped ringing from creditors, he gave me a great job at his company, and I had food on the table in a fabulous apartment. He seemed to know my every need before I voiced them. I could push aside my hostility and take his punishment and occasional negligence.

“You are mine, all mine.” he announced.

His words, saturated with power and ownership, sustained my hungry heart. I could hold out as long as it took, accepting the way things had to be until Bianca was more emotionally stable, and Dorian could ask her for a divorce. I had waited longer on losers, lazy assholes who wouldn’t work in a pie factory. This time I had struck gold.

Reaching over, I grabbed the seat when Dorian impatiently knocked on the divider and the limo picked up speed.

AUTHOR BIO

Jenna Fox is a civilized hillbilly, mother, wife and multi published author of erotic romance residing in Eastern Tennessee. She enjoys reading and jotting down poetry in her spare time. Besides juggling a busy family life, Fox reviews and critiques for other authors and crafts her own dark erotic tales. Stories always feature a mysterious alpha male with unexpected twists to shock the reader. She believes in HFN and HEA endings, although not always in a romantic or conventional way.

Her work is born from real life experiences, an overactive imagination and a consuming caffeine addiction. Sometimes she finds herself writing sex scenes on fast food napkins and store receipts while waiting in traffic, but she’s always guilty of keeping her mind in the gutter. Fox is a listener of hard rock music and a watcher of classic slasher films. In short, she’s a writer, a storyteller, able to make a boo-boo all better with just one kiss and a proud, world class expert at screwing up recipes and scaring away closet monsters. She believes in ghosts and God and is absolutely convinced chocolate soothes the savage beast.

  AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS

Blog – Facebook – Facebook Fan Page – Pinterest – Twitter – Goodreads – Amazon Author Page – GoodReads – Google Plus

  GIVEAWAY

Two free eBook copies of Sealed in Blood (erotic thriller)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blitz Organized & Hosted By:

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: It Don’t Mean a Thing by @kimrtaylor

 

 

It Don’t Mean a Thing

Kim Taylor Blakemore

Genre: Romance, Historical

Publisher: SilkWords

Date of Publication: August 4, 2014

ASIN: B00MG4C1E6

Word Count: 20,535 pick-your-path story

Book Description:

Ruby dreams of Hollywood. A chance encounter with The Harmoneers, an all-female jazz group, offers the opportunity of a lifetime. Follow the gang as they scheme and double-cross.

And love?

Well, it don’t mean a thing.

 

 

 

 

Sycamore Grove, California

1931

“I’m not marrying you, Audie McCardle. I most certainly am not.” Ruby Banks crossed her arms, pressed her lips tight, and gave a definitive shake of her head. She leaned toward the mirror over her hand-me-down vanity and stabbed a pin into her blonde curls. She twisted her head left and right, and fluffed the back of her hair. A strange tint of pink ran loose through the strands and waves. Maybe she should have been more careful with the mixture of peroxide and ammonia she’d used the previous night.

But between her mother running up the stairs and hugging her close, her father taking his pipe from his mouth long enough to yell that the hair potion was causing him an onset of lung disorder, and her little sister, Charlotte, jumping around and squawking nonsense about weddings weddings weddings, Ruby botched the dye job.

Never mind, she thought. If anyone asked, she’d say it was exactly the color she was hoping for.

Or she wouldn’t say anything at all. Jean Harlow wouldn’t say anything. Of that Ruby Banks was sure.

She snatched her apron from the end of her bed, bounded down the narrow stairs, and ignored her mother calling from the kitchen. Ruby pushed open the front gate and darted down the sidewalk. She was late (as usual) for her morning shift at the diner, and she still had to pick up the pies from Mrs. Jensen on the next block.

The early morning sun promised another day of horrible Central California heat. The sky would soon brown with the upturned soils of the fields, and the air already stank from the cows.

A beat-up Model T stake-bed truck rolled past Ruby. She heard the tires slow on the hard-packed soil of the street. Gears ground, and the truck reversed and pulled next to her.

John Mayer shifted his stub of a cigar to the other side of his mouth, tilted back his fedora, and smiled. His skin was bronze and wrinkled. He rubbed a weathered thumb across his chin. “Guess congratulations are in order.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” Ruby lifted her head and continued walking. John Mayer kept the truck rolling slowly in reverse.

“Fine boy, Audie is.”

“So everyone says.”

“You make a sweet couple.”

“We’re not a couple.”

He scratched the shirt on his chest. “You don’t say.”

“He can buy any house he pleases in the Sears Roebuck catalog, but that doesn’t mean we’re a couple. And it certainly doesn’t mean I’m going to marry him.”

“You don’t say.”

“I do say. I have plans of my own.” She blew back a curl that had come loose. “Don’t you have some hogs to tie or something like that?”

“I don’t have hogs.”

“You know what I’m saying.”

He chewed his cigar then shifted the gears. The truck took a jump and shimmied. “You got a mean streak, Ruby. Yes, miss, you do.” With that, he was off down the road in a swirl of dirt.

Ruby wiped her mouth with her handkerchief. She patted her hair and strode up the wood steps to Mrs. Jensen’s porch. She knocked three times on the screen door frame and stepped back. Mrs. Jensen shuffled to the door, balancing five boxes of peach pies.

Only the top of half of her face was visible above the stack. She passed the boxes to Ruby and wiped her hands on a flour-coated apron. “I hear congratulations are in order.”

“Aw, nuts.”

Ruby’s heels cracked against the pavement. She passed the Esso station and VFW Hall and drew near the two blocks that made up Sycamore Grove’s downtown. The neon spire of the Odeon dwarfed the squat brick of its neighbors. She glared up, worried that this upcoming non-wedding would be splattered in black and white across the marquee. Luckily not. It remained safely Gable and Harlow in Red Dust.

Maud Riley stood under the awning of Rexall Drugs, waiting, as she always did, for Ruby. Her gray felt cloche sat low on her head, the nutmeg tufts of her bob feathered under the soft rim. She shifted from foot to foot, tapping her fingers against her black-and mustard-checked skirt. As Ruby neared, Maud narrowed her eyes and blinked fast before shaking her head. She pursed her lips and twisted them into a strained smile.

“What’s wrong with you?” Ruby asked.

Maud’s eyebrows met in a frown. “Nothing. Not a thing.” She waved her hand for no reason that Ruby could ascertain and fell in step beside her. “I guess I have to wish —”

“Don’t you start.” She shifted the pies to her hip. “I can tolerate all the little gifts he gives me. I mean, a girl does need emery boards and cologne. But buying a house? That’s called unbounded impudence.”

“I think it was just a down payment.”

“It’s still a lot of cheek. What does he think? I’m going to roll over like a, like a starving dog and do whatever he commands?” Ruby stopped in front of the diner, set the boxes on the cement and faced Maud. “He hasn’t even asked me to marry him. And you know what? When he does, I’m going to laugh like this — HA-ha. Because I’ve got all that money Aunt Caroline left me, and come September, I’m going to take the bus to Merced and then the train to Hollywood. And in neither of those vehicles can you fit a Sears and Roebuck house and an ego the size of Audie McCardle’s. And when he comes in for breakfast, I’m going to tell him so.”

Maud crossed her arms over her thin frame and swayed back and forth.

“You got something to say, just say it.”

Maud bit her lip and shrugged.

“What does that mean?”

“It means nothing.” Maud swung her gaze around the street and up at the Odeon spire and then stared over her shoulder at the empty diner. “You like my skirt?”

“What?”

“I wore it just for you. So you could see how the pattern came out. And such.” She gave that funny wave again, as if she were swatting a big bug. “Never mind. I’ve got an early piano lesson to give.”

“Well, don’t let me keep you.” Ruby bent to pick up the pies. “Would you mind opening the door for me? I mean, if you have time.”

“I always have time for you.”

“Are you all right?”

“Of course I’m all right. Why?”

“You’re red as a beet.”

Maud put the flats of her palms against her cheeks, turned on her heel, and rushed away, the bell of her skirt flapping against her knees.

“But the door, Maud … ”

Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?

I was always a voracious reader, and thank my parents for giving me that lovely obsessive habit! But no, I was enthralled to the theatre and being an actor and director. I tired of that very quickly in the harsh world of Los Angeles. Whether I was a good, bad or indifferent, it was the wrong place to be a theatre actor.

When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?

I think it was with the sale of that first book, Side Dish. It was a light and silly romantic comedy, now out of print and the company that published it defunct.

Wait, now that I think about it, it was the writing of the first book that made me feel like a writer. Because I sat down every day and worked with words. It was the writing of the second book, Cissy Funk, which confirmed it.

How long did it take to get your first book published?

I chose, with “Side Dish”, to submit to small presses that accepted manuscripts without agents. I think it was about 2-3 months. And a year plus to publication.

Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?

I do, and I am very blessed to have it. I teach at a small private college (yes, for-profit, but we’ve been around 150 years). I love my students. I love how hungry they are to learn, how much they teach me. And the whole time I’ve been teaching there (16 years!) I have never had a day where I was not excited to go to work.

What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?

My historical novel “Bowery Girl”, set in the Bowery in 1883, was just re-released in January.

20 word summary: Two young women, a pickpocket and a prostitute, struggle for survival and a better life in 19th century New York.

Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?

I do a mix. My last three novels were traditionally published, my stories with Silkwords are a hybrid of traditional/new media, and my upcoming novel, Under the Pale Moon, will be indie-published.

How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?

I haven’t figured out a plan or system for this, as much as I want. My first novel, Side Dish, was written in 8 weeks. Cissy Funk took a year. Bowery Girl took a year and a half. The stories for Silkwords took 6 weeks. My upcoming is taking forever! It began as a completely different novel, and I wasn’t happy with it once it was completed. I chose to tear it apart and just take certain elements of it for Under the Pale Moon: a couple characters, the time period and setting, the post-War mood.

What can we expect from you in the future?  ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?

I define my fiction as Women’s Historical Fiction, which is a broad category but keeps the focus on stories about women and women’s experiences – this also allows the stories to be romance or fiction, about women who are straight or gay or somewhere in between. Besides that focus, my milieu is 1870 to the 1950s.

What genre would you place your books into?

Women’s Historical Fiction and Romance

What made you decide to write that genre of book?

It allows me to write about women and their experiences at different period in history. I am drawn to the topsy-turvy world in the U.S. from 1870 to the 1950s. It also allows a wide range of future books that can explore the relationships of women and men, women and women, children, families. And how they navigate and live in their worlds, whether on the streets of the Bowery in 1883 to a small town in California in the 1930s, the difficult post-war period, and everything in between. I wanted to combine the genres that call to me: Historical Fiction, Women’s Fiction, LesFic, Romance (sweet).

Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?

I have a few:

Mollie Flynn (Bowery Girl) – she’s sharp as a tack, tough, loyal, and a very good pickpocket.

Ida Lemperer Waite (It Don’t Mean a Thing) – leader of the All-Girl band, The Harmoneers. She’s talented, conniving, a schemer, and doesn’t let obstacles get in the way.

Kath Walker (Under the Pale Moon) – she’s full of contradictions, a nurse who has lost her compassion, a talented artist, an outcast, someone with huge love for the outcasts of the world, and not afraid to be different from what society in the 1940s-50s expects.

How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?

I’ve been writing seriously since 1996, although have had long spates of time where work and other life problems and opportunities got in the way. Hm…1996…that’s a while ago.

My parents taught me the love of reading; I am definitely a bookworm. And I have always made up stories in my head – letting “What-ifs” formulate and tangle and dance. I have so many beginnings to so many stories! It’s finding the ones that stick that’s harder for me.

Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?

When I am on a roll and excited about a scene or chapter, it doesn’t matter where I write – my desk, the couch in the den, the dining room table, on a folding chair under the huge birch tree in my front yard. When I’m hesitant or scared that the whole idea of writing is a stinking waste of time, I meet with a dear friend and writer and we work and write and share our scenes and ideas together. Our literary life raft! When nothing is coming to me, or doubt crawls under my skin, or I just want to take to the couch with someone else’s book (thank you very much and leave me alone), I haul the dogs in the car to my wife’s office and lock us all in for the day. While she heals sick animals and tends to their fleas in the clinic, I drink Starbuck’s and stew and hope for a page or two.

Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?

I go back and forth on that, because I’m afraid of being judged! But who isn’t, really…I do read the reviews. I learn a lot from them, looking for patterns in the reviews that might help me, curious about how my vision of the book matches up or is changed by a reader’s or critic’s vision.

Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?

Story first, and somewhere in the middle the title will come to me. Although for “It Don’t Mean a Thing” and “The Very Thought of You”, the titles came from scouring and listening to music from the time periods.

How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?

Setting is incredibly important to me, and often comes first. We are all molded by the physical spaces we live in, and the cultural mores of that location. In “Bowery Girl”, the Lower Eastside of Manhattan is a character in itself. In fact, I think setting is so important, I teach a workshop with PDX Writers called “Setting as Character”.

Once I pick the setting and time period, my next step is to brainstorm names that sound right for the main characters – and then I go on the Internet to find the popular baby names for the year they were born. It’s critical: Ida, Ruby, Audie and Maud certainly evoke a different era than Emmeline, Annabelle, Mollie and Seamus. Or Loretta, Evelyn, and Helen.

Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?

I do a mixture of both. I’ll write a lot of scenes just to see if the characters tick, and when they don’t. And then work on character questions all the way along.

Are there any hidden messages or morals contained in your books? (Morals as in like Aesops Fables type of "The moral of this story is..")

No morals, no hidden messages. It’s about walking with the people in the stories and seeing the world through their eyes.

Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?

I love to read fiction on my Samsung Phone! It’s got a great screen, and if I’m bored with one book, I can always click on the Complete Works of Shakespeare or the Complete Works of Jane Austen and be very happy not to heft the ten pound book! I buy paperbacks and hardbacks that I know I will use for research, as I am an old-school write-in-the-margins researcher. But if I have an author I love, and the luck to meet them at a reading, it’s hardback or paperback so I can get an autograph. Those books are on their own shelf: Jeanette Winterson, Sarah Waters, VM Whitworth and others…

What is your favorite book and Why?  Have you read it more than once?

I don’t have one favorite book, but I do have those that I love (and yes, bought the hardback/paperback!) and have read and re-read: Gone with the Wind, all of Steinbeck, all of Virginia Woolf, The Book Thief, Code Name Verity, Life and Fate, Anna Karenina, The Passion, Written on the Body…I’ll stop there. I said I was a bookworm!

Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?

I once posted on Facebook an image someone else had created of an iceberg (and we all know the iceberg) – the movie is what you see out of the water, the book is what is underneath the water. I truly think that it is because a movie is guided by a script and director who want you to see and feel what they want you to (Spielberg is brilliant at this), and a book allows you to have a private conversation with the language and characters and ideas.

Favorite adaptations: 1) Gone with the Wind. There is only one sentence in the script that was not the exact transcription from Margaret Mitchell’s book. You know what it is. 2) Atonement. Read the book, see the movie. The screenwriter and director were spot on with the arc of the story.

Your favorite food is?

Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

Your favorite singer/group is?

Big band and 1950s jazz. Wait. And anything by Sondheim. And wait again. Chopin, Debussy, and Mozart. And…Scott Joplin.

My friends keep trying to get me in touch with the times…that will be an uphill battle.

Your favorite color is?

Dark blue.

Your favorite Author is?

John Steinbeck.

 

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Kim Taylor Blakemore writes historical fiction and romance that explores women's lives and brings their struggles and triumphs out of the shadows of history and onto the canvas of our American past. She wishes to share the stories of women whose lives are untold, who don’t exist in textbooks: the disenfranchised, the forgotten, those with double lives and huge hearts filled with weakness and courage.

Her novel Bowery Girl, set in 1883 Lower Eastside Manhattan was recently re-released in Kindle and paperback. Under the Pale Moon, is due for release in Fall 2015. Set in post-World War II Monterey, California, it explores the relationship of a married woman breaking the bonds of conformity, and a combat nurse haunted by the ghosts of war.

Her interactive historical romances The Very Thought of You and It Don't Mean a Thing, are out now on Kindle and SilkWords.com. She is also the author of the novel Cissy Funk, winner of the WILLA Literary Award for Best Young Adult Fiction.

She’s a member of the Historical Novel Society, Women Writing the West and Romance Writers of America. In addition to writing novels, she facilitates workshops for PDX Writers in Portland, Oregon.

Web: www.kimtaylorblakemore.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kimtaylorblakemore

Twitter: @kimrtaylor

 

SilkWords is the go-to source for interactive romance and erotic fiction.

With gorgeous custom covers and a clean, sophisticated design, the SilkWords site offers a secure, upscale reading environment. In addition to content on their web site, they offer stories for purchase in the standard e-book formats.

SilkWords is owned and operated by a full-time mom with a background in genetics and an RWA RITA-nominated, multi-published sci-fi romance author.

Their technology guy and site designer was the founder of Microsoft Xbox Live.

SilkWords features two formats that allow readers to choose how the stories will proceed.

Pick Your Path:

Will she or won't she? With which man (or woman) in which location? With Pick Your Path romance, you decide. Romance and branched fiction are made for each other, like picking your favorite flavor of ice cream...positions, partners, and paraphernalia, oh my!

Reader Vote:

Readers vote at choice points and decide how the story will continue. These stories are a great way for readers and authors to connect. It’s exciting to be part of a developing story!

https://www.silkwords.com/

Book Blast & Giveaway: Mountain of Love and Danger by @Hopefulwords

BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – Mountain of Love and Danger SERIES – Fairwilde Fairy Tale Reflections AUTHOR – Gail Pallotta GENRE – Mystery and Romance PUBLICATION DATE – 10/14/2014 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) - 32, 440 PUBLISHER – Mountain Laurel Publishing / Create Space COVER ARTIST – Vanessa Riley BOOK SYNOPSIS Jack Greenthumb finds romance in Fairwilde Kingdom—a different day—a different girl. Then a cruel mystery begins. Dad’s beaten, the family farm destroyed and Jack’s true love, Gwendolyn Bante, kidnapped. Jack’s undercover operation reveals Gwenie’s a captive atop a mountain accessible only by helicopter. Reaching her is a dangerous expedition even for a champion rock climber like Jack. However, a Greenthumb Acres employee plants a miraculous seed from Heaven for the rescue. Suspense mounts as Jack scales the perilous cliff to face a brute and a treacherous descent in this retelling of the fairy tale, Jack and the Beanstalk. BUY & TBR LINKS AMAZON KINDLE – AMAZON PAPERBACK – BARNES & NOBLES NOOK – SMASHWORDS – GOODREADS EXCERPT

Lonely darkness fell around Jack as he slipped into his harness and put on his climbing shoes. He crept in and out of the moon’s shadows to the base of the alp and took hold of the strong plant, the itchy touch of it not a problem, the strength of it boosting his confidence. Fueled by the fire burning in his heart to find Gwenie, he stepped on the first node and glanced back. Just one quick look. He didn’t know why. Maybe something in his psyche wanted to see the ground from whence he’d come one last time in case he never set foot on it again.

He climbed up the next nodule and the next as fast as his feet and arms would take him. A sense of leaving the everyday world overwhelmed him as it always did when he climbed, but this time it wasn’t freeing. An eerie sensation sent shivers through his bones with every foot he scaled. The breaking of twigs, crunching of leaves, and howling noises below grew fainter and fainter as he ascended higher and higher.

“Whooo-whoo.” Halfway up he met an owl that turned its head in a circle as it sat on the highest limb of a towering oak. He pulled upward while pushing with his lower body as he passed boulders and scraggly bushes lit by the stars and moon. He searched with his right hand for the next node, found it, moved up and placed his foot on the spot where it had been. The jagged surface on this mountain could rip open a person in an instant, but it was Jack’s fear for Gwenie that gripped him. The yearning to hold her safe in his arms seeped deeper into his pores each time he forged upward.

His body ached as he pulled with nerves wound as tight as a corkscrew for wanting to hurry to the top. Soon his leg muscles cramped. A gray piece of granite jutting out like the seat of a chair with a slab for a back tempted him. How could he rest after what he’d done to Gwenie? He had to keep moving, but what if his arms and legs gave out, and he never reached her? His head throbbed with decision making.

Just for a second he let go of the living pole. His foot slipped, and he slid down the precipice, debris rolling, crashing beneath him until the belay caught the rope and stopped his fall. His head swam as he thrust the spring-loaded camming device into a crack and anchored the cable. He swung to his right and sank to the rocky seat. The stones settled below him and silence filled the darkness where he sat tucked out of the light from Heaven.

Two days ago he was a slap-happy player in love with Gwenie since childhood, but content to drink life’s single pleasures a while longer. Now the need to take hold of a more profound passion that seemed as fragile as one of Dad’s orchids burned in his soul. The breeze whipping around him blew away images of fast rides through Fairwilde with a blond or a brunette laughing beside him. He needed Gwenie. Please Lord, let her be alright waiting for me.

He stretched out his legs then rubbed his palms together. Upward.

He swung out, grabbed hold of the beanstalk, pulled up with his hand and pushed with his foot as a blast of strong wind swayed the sturdy stem. The stars grew dim then disappeared as clouds rolled over them. Raindrops hit his head while lightning flashed, lighting up the sky—nothing but dark space as far as he could see. Then the flash.

He pulled up with his hand and pushed with his right foot—pulled up with his hand and pushed with his right foot again and again through the black void cut by occasional lightning. The tiny glow from the lamp on his helmet did little good in this storm. Another burst of air whipped around him, and the plant quivered. He touched a flat spot. The one Fernando told him to look for? He moved his fingers around it.

Yes. Relief as strong as the gust that bent the trees swept over him. The top. He wanted to shout I’m here Gwenie! into the stormy night over and over, but instead he leaned forward trying to see a way into the cabin.

CHARACTER BIOSJack Greenthumb’s a great guy. He’s young and comes from a well-to-do family, so he’s been having fun riding girls around in his new car. However, when his dad’s attacked and his true love kidnapped, one quickly sees he’s courageous, determined and devoted to his family and girlfriend. Fortunately, he’s also a champion rock and mountain climber. AUTHOR BIO Award-winning author Gail Pallotta’s a wife, Mom, swimmer and bargain shopper who loves God, beach sunsets and getting together with friends and family. A former regional writer of the year for American Christian Writers Association, she won Clash of the Titles in 2010. Her teen book, Stopped Cold, finished fourth in the 16th Annual Preditors and Editors readers’ poll and was a finalist for the 2013 Grace Awards. She’s published short stories in “Splickety” magazine and Sweet Freedom with a Slice of Peach Cobbler. Some of her published articles appear in anthologies while two are in museums. Visit her web site at http://www.gailpallotta.com AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE / BLOG – FACEBOOK – TWITTER – GOOGLE+ - GOODREADS GIVEAWAY e-book of Mountain of Love and Danger a Rafflecopter giveaway Blitz Organized & Hosted By

Book Blast & Interview: Help Me Move On by @angiehemmings04

 

Help Me Move On

The Southern Ties Series

Book 1

Angie Hemmings

Genre: Romance

ISBN: 978-1502871800

Number of pages: 248

Word Count: 81079

Book Description:

Ally Dunn is a small town girl with big dreams planning a wedding that would never happen. Ally’s life revolved around being Eric’s wife…until she watched his best friend Isaiah step off that plane, his arm in a sling and Eric's casket behind him. Her grief consumed her, their last conversation not one filled with love but an argument over her favorite flower. He knew her favorite flower, he was just busy…fighting for his country. Isaiah made a promise to Eric, he would keep Ally safe even if that meant saving her from herself. Isaiah takes Ally away when her grief becomes too much but their return brings about something she never expected.

When Ally meets Colton Walker she knows her life will never be the same. She never planned to move on from Eric, the mere idea of moving on would send her into a panic. How do you move on from the man you loved, the man who shared your dreams, who made your heart feel whole? But Colton doesn’t push her, he doesn’t pressure her, he gives her everything she ever needed and he does it effortlessly.

Falling in love with Colton was like taking her next breath; she didn’t have to think about because it came naturally…only a cloud hangs over Ally. Isaiah trains her in Krav Maga, Eric trained her in gunfire. Colton sees all of this, asking the one question she can’t answer, why? Why would a woman who lives in such a small town need to know such aggressive self-defense? Isaiah vows to keep her safe, going so far as to track her every move…but why?

Surviving Eric’s death almost killed Ally, the hole in her heart never truly healed until Colton. Falling in love with Colton was easy, fighting for her life when everything she thought she knew was wrong…that was a completely different story.

Available at Amazon

Hey guys, I’m Angie Hemmings the author of Help Me Move On. We’re knee deep into this blog tour and I thought you guys would like a character interview from one of the leading men. When we watch Ally struggling with her grief it’s hard to not want to help her and even Isaiah tries but at the end of the day it’s Colton who helps her do what she never thought possible...move on.

So what better way to get to know this awesome guy than an interview?

 

Interviewer: You’ve been in charge of the Pilot Mountain Fire Department for how many years now Colton?

Colton: Three.

Interviewer: What made you decide to become a firefighter?

Colton: There was a fire at my house when I was younger. I was upstairs with my brother and we couldn’t get out. The fire was at our door and that’s when the fireman came. He saved us from burning alive and after that I knew what I wanted to be.

Interviewer: We rarely hear about your brother. How was it he died?
Colton: My brother was a good guy. When he started using meth we tried to help him but sometimes the best intentions fall short.

Interviewer: And you found your brother?

Colton: I came home from school that day and he was laying on the bathroom floor. Days without sleep, food, and too many drugs had finally caught up to him.

Interviewer: Would you say that your experience with your brother made you stronger? Perhaps helped you when it came to Ally and the grief we all watched her struggle with?

Colton: There are stages to grief and we all have to work through them. I don’t think finding my brother made me stronger but I do think it made me smarter. I learned what to look for in people. You have to pay attention to the little things if you want to understand the big picture and in the end I do think that helped me with Ally.
Interviewer: But your dedication to Ally is not one to be denied. From the day Ally came home you were there.

Colton: That was a lucky coincidence more than anything. Nate needed a ride and I was the ride.

Interviewer: As your relationship developed is it true that Ally began to receive flowers? Roses that did not come from you or anyone that she knew for that matter?
Colton: Yes.

Interviewer: Who do you think would send her flowers?

Colton: Someone who wants to send a message.

Interviewer: And that message is what?

Colton: I’ll tell you when I figure it out.

Interviewer: The fire that has been devastating the park has caused a lot of headaches for you. Fighting these fires all the while Ally was attacked in her own home. You left with her that day even though there were a lot of people who needed you to stay. There are many people questioning your dedication to the fire department that you say you love. How do you respond to those that feel you should be removed from your position?

Colton: I did have to leave but even in my absence the department ran just as I knew it would. We’ve trained for the fires that took over the park and we were prepared to fight these fires. In regards to those that feel I should be removed from my position I’m sorry they feel that way but it’s not going to happen. I’m good at my job and keeping this town safe is what I do.

Interviewer: About your absence, is it true that you were in a secluded cabin in the mountains?

Colton: Does it matter where I was?

Interviewer: If the rumors are true then yes. Is Eric Thomas alive? Is it true that he kidnapped Miss. Dunn?

Colton: Rumors have a tendency to be not only false but they cause unwanted trouble.

Interviewer: Could you clarify your relationship with Miss. Dunn?

Colton: Ally is off the market if that’s what you want to know.

Interviewer: How did your relationship begin?

Colton: I’ll say this. I met her on what was one of the hardest days of her life and I knew the moment I touched her that we would be together, I just had to be patient.

Interviewer: How did you feel when she joined the Peace Corps? Moving away to another country with another man? That had to be hard on you.

Colton: It was hard to watch her leave but she needed to go and I understood that. As far as Isaiah is concerned, he was there to protect her and that was it.
Interviewer: You’re not threatened by the fact Ally is close to another man?

Colton: To be threatened would imply that there was a threat. Ally has always looked to Isaiah more like she would a brother. I saw that even the day of the funeral.

Interviewer: All I see is a war veteran and a young impressionable woman who was grieving herself to death. It doesn’t seem unlikely that their bond would turn into more, especially while spending a year away in Uganda.

Colton: I guess it’s a good thing you aren’t me then.

Interviewer: Do you ever feel that you can’t compete with the memory of Eric? Her wedding was planned, the invitations had gone out, everything was planned and then he was gone. We all saw how she struggled, how much she loved him and then you come into the picture. Is it easy to follow in his footsteps?

Colton: I would never try to compete with Eric’s memory. He was Ally’s first love and I want her to have those memories. I want her to have the happy memories of their time together but I’m not walking in Eric’s footsteps and I’m definitely not competing with his memory.
Interviewer: You’re not?

Colton: No. Eric was her first love, he wasn’t the love of her life.

Interviewer: And you?

Colton: I’m the love of her life. It’s a fact and it’s not something to be challenged.

Interviewer: Is there wedding bells in your future Colton?

Colton: One day.

Interviewer: Now that you’re home what are your plans?

Colton: Spend time with Ally and plan my next mudbog.

And that ladies is Colton Walker.

I hope you guys enjoy Help Me Move On and the characters I’ve grown to love. I love the cool confidence we find in Colton and I love the fact he’s not threatened by Isaiah. Most men would be but with Colton it’s like he just knows. He knows that he’s going to get Ally it’s just a matter of time and he’s willing to wait for her to be ready which makes me love him all the more. To me there’s nothing better than a man who is sexy and confident yet he’s not an asshole. There’s a fine line between being confident and being conceded...Colton is the furthest thing from conceded all the while we see his past and you want to hug the man.

My perfect Alpha Male.

What would you say are your favorite features to an Alpha Male?

   

Angie Hemmings is a self-proclaimed romance addict. Her love for romance began at an early age but after years of reading romance novels she found herself wanting more which led to her first novel. She's originally from Mount Airy, a small town in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and she loves the art behind creating a new story. Getting lost in the romance, the struggle between her characters is what makes Angie Hemmings continue her work and writing is what she loves.

www.angiehemmings.com

@angiehemmings04

https://www.facebook.com/pages/angiehemmingscom

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7398893.Angie_Leonard_Hemmings

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Dating In The Dark by Tracy Rogers

Presented by: Dating in the Dark - Sweet Delights Series #1 by Tracey Rogers Audience: Adult - Genre: Contemporary Romance - Formats: E-book  - Publisher: Beachwalk Press - Cover by: Fantasia Frog Designs - Editor: Kelly Anderson - Pages: 150 (50K words) - ASIN: B00QYB19M2 - Date Published: Dec 15th 2014     Can you find what you need hidden within the dark? Hiding out in his sister's bakery to recover from a recent injury isn't an ideal solution for newly unemployed meteorologist Damian Trent. Especially since he doesn't like cake. But hiding anywhere is preferable to facing the media frenzy revolving around his life. He has no intention of being seen by anyone. That is, until he hears a honey-toned voice over the phone. Public relations agent Sophie Rose has a boss who makes her working week a hellish one. He drives her to her need for sugar, so the recently opened Sweet Delights Bakery is perfect for her much needed Friday treat. But one day when she calls to place an order, she gets an unexpected surprise. Sophie's keen to dump her V-plates, though only the right man will do. Damian, with his sexy, yet familiar sounding voice, seems the ideal person for her to gain some much needed experience with. But why do they need to date in the dark? Content Warning: contains sensual sex.   Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Beachwalk Press   Damian rested his arm across his forehead and sighed, trying to blot out the ringing sound and failing. Sleep wasn’t happening. He ached from his walk after pushing it to a run. With each step he’d remembered Sophie’s voice. He had very little else to occupy his mind, so she was an easy focus. Every stride had gathered pace, and before he knew it a walk had become a jog; a jog becoming a run. And her voice was still inside his head. Stretching out on the creaky sofa bed, he winced at the movement. Irritated, he tugged the sheet down from his bare chest to lean over and grab the phone. He placed it to his ear and muttered something unintelligible. “Hi, sorry—did I wake you?” “Sophie?” Or was he asleep and dreaming? “Oh, crap. I did, didn’t I? I’m so sorry. I couldn’t sleep, so I thought… Anyway, my apologies. Pretend I never happened, and goodnight,” she said speeding over her words. “Sophie, wait!” he called out, wanting to stop her before she hung up, needing to listen to her voice for a little while longer. “I couldn’t sleep either,” he reassured her as he heard her soft breaths. He shuffled higher against his pillow and propped one hand behind his head. Why couldn’t she sleep? Because of him? And how had she gotten his number? “Really?” Her relieved sigh made him smile. If he wasn’t careful smiling could become a habit of his. “When you left your number in the box, I thought…” Left his number? He had no idea what his number was. “What did you think?” “I thought you might want me to call?” she asked hesitantly, as if she was worried about his response. She wouldn’t be worried if she could see the stirring going on beneath the sheet. Or maybe she would be? Though she seemed confident, he still detected a shyness behind her words. “And did you want to call?” “I did.” His jaw clenched at her immediate response, a muscle flickering in his cheek. Interesting. Her honesty was evoking things inside that he was starting to like. A lot. “I like hearing your voice.” Christ, what was she doing to him? “What do you look like?” he asked, without thinking about the repercussions of his question. Silence. “Does that matter?” she said quietly, the warmth in her tone dropping a degree or two. “No, no it doesn’t.” He frowned, the admission taking him by surprise. “Tell me what you’re wearing instead.” “Why?” “Because if you don’t tell me you’re wearing something hideous, I won’t be sleeping for the rest of the night either.” She laughed then, the sound not helping his libido whatsoever. “Damian.” “Yeah.” “I’m not wearing anything hideous.” He groaned then, obviously out loud because Sophie was laughing again. “I’m not wearing anything.” Oh, hell. A sudden spike of desire sliced through his veins, making him regret his impulsive words. “Then I’m now very grateful I don’t know what you look like.” “You could. Know what I look like I mean.” “You want to tell me now?” “No. I want to show you. On a…date?” Damian lifted a hand to his face, massaging his fingers above his brow, then lower to scrub over his jaw. His breath felt restricted by his tightening lungs. As much as he wanted to see her, to touch her, to have someone touch him in a way that wasn’t clinical or trying to fix him—he couldn’t do it. How could he see her, without her seeing him? Supermassive Black Hole by Muse Born of Frustration by James Starlight by Muse No light, no light by Florence and the Machine Video Games by Lana Del Ray Cosmic Love by Florence and the Machine Beneath Your Beautiful by Labrinth Wires by Athlete Fix You by Coldplay Gravity by Embrace  

Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?

I declared I wanted to be a writer at the age of eight. Though I figured it was more of a dream thing so in ‘real life’ I wanted to be a librarian. I didn’t become one though, instead I fulfil my urge by tidying the shelves when I visit. I’m a bit precious about books.

How long did it take to get your first book published?

My first book started out as a chapter written for a competition, so from that and on to consideration and then submitting it elsewhere, it seemed to be around for a long time. Though in reality it was over eighteen months until release day.

What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?

Dating in the Dark is my latest release and is book one of the Sweet Delights Series. It’s a sexy romance combined with dates in the dark, the sweetness of cake and a sprinkling of humour.

Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?

I’m published by Beachwalk Press.

How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?

I’d say on average it takes four months. Depending on a clash with school holidays. My youngest reads very well now so a lot of secret writing goes on during holiday time.

What can we expect from you in the future?  ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?

I have more contemporary romance planned but they say write what you love and I love paranormal too, so I’m flexing my pen in that direction in the future.

What genre would you place your books into?

I write contemporary romance. I think my genre would always be romance.

What made you decide to write that genre of book?

Contemporary romance has always been my preferred reading genre. I love fresh stories with a hint of humour.

How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?

I have written for pleasure for years, but only considered the prospect of publication three years ago. I get inspired by the books I read and my close friends and family who have always supported my need to write.

Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?

I do! I’m so grateful that people take the time to read my work and then to review them that I always read them. The feedback is a useful tool to have as an author, it can help you develop and grow. Plus there’s the happy glow you get from them.

Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?

Even if I have the story all mapped out inside my head I can’t write a word of it unless I have a title to start with. It’s an annoying quirk I have.

How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?

My main character names generally come from the names lists I’d written to help select baby names during my last pregnancy. I guess they are kind of like my children too. Place names are a random selection from google maps.

Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?

I decide on traits before I start, but as the story develops they tend to change that for themselves. I love to see a character grow, or even accept who they are.

Are there any hidden messages or morals contained in your books? (Morals as in like Aesops Fables type of "The moral of this story is..")

I think every book has a message of some kind. In Dating in the Dark there’s a message of how you shouldn’t judge by what you can see.

Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?

I only read hardback if I can’t wait for paperback or ebook. I read mainly ebook but my preference is paperback.

Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?

My worst transfer is My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult. A good movie but it lost a lot of emotion in comparison to the book. My absolute favourite is The Lord Of The Rings trilogy.

Your favorite singer/group is?

Coldplay.

Your favorite color is?

Red.

Your favorite Author is?

I have too many to choose. I’m always hunting for more!

   a Rafflecopter giveaway   Usually found with a pen in my hand, or my head in a book, I’m a contemporary romance author who also thinks fangs and wings are a very attractive accessory. A devourer of books from an early age, imagination was my best discovery. I spent much of my childhood stepping into wardrobes, searching for that magical snowy world where conversing with animals would be expected. When I wasn’t searching for those worlds, I wrote about them instead. My first step into the world of romance was when I stole sneak peeks into my nana’s books. I’m still in that world and I refuse to leave. I live in Staffordshire, UK, with my husband and three wonderful children. An avid reader and writer of romance, I strongly believe that words make the world go around. I like nothing more than to be swept away by the words on a page. I hope I can sweep you away too. Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Amazon / Pinterest / Google + / Facebook Group Tour Schedule - Two Week Blog Tour for Dating in the Dark, Sweet Delights Series by Tracey Rodgers from Jan 19 to Feb 5, 2015. Jan 19 A Book Junky's Obsession - Promo http://abookjunkysobsession.com/ Books, Authors, Blogs - Promo & Top Ten http://therightbook4u.blogspot.com Sassy Southern Book Blog - Review http://sassysouthernbookblog.com/ Jan 20 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too! - Promo http://3partnersinshopping.blogspot.com Smile Somebody Loves You - Promo & Top Ten http://SSLYblog.wordpress.com Coffee Books & Art - Promo, & Top Ten http://sarityahalomi.blogspot.com/ Jan 21 Kimber Leigh Writes - Promo & Top Ten http://www.kimberleighwheaton.com Sweet Treat Reading Reviews - Promo http://strreviews.blogspot.com/ Jan 22 Trips Down Imagination Road - Review http://a-reader-lives-a-thousand-lives.blogspot.co.uk The Avid Reader - Promo, Author Interview & Playlist http://the-avidreader.blogspot.com Jan 23 Lindsey Gray ~ Author & Reviewer - Review http://lindsey-gray.blogspot.com The Idle Musings of a Writer's Mind - Promo & Author Interview  http://theidlemusingsofawritersmind.blogspot.com Jan 26 Cover Reveals - Promo http://CoverReveals.blogspot.com Jan 27 Rustys Reading - Promo http://www.rustysreading.blogspot.com Books Boys and Badass Bloggettes - Promo http://badassbloggettes.blogspot.co.uk Jan 28 Kelly P's Blog - Promo http://kellyatx.blogspot.com/ Booky Ramblings of a Neurotic Mom - Promo & Top Ten http://bookyramblingsofaneuroticmom.blogspot.co.uk/ Jan 29 Cajun Book Lover - Promo http://www.cajunbooklover.blogspot.com Indy Book Fairy - Promo http://paranormalbookfairy.blogspot.com/ Archaeolibrarian - I dig good books! - Promo & Playlist http://archaeolibrarianologist.blogspot.de/ Jan 30 Deal Sharing Aunt - Promo http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com Eclipse Reviews - Promo, Character Interview & Playlist http://www.eclipsereviews.weebly.com Feb 2 Fictional Rendezvous Book Blog - Promo http://fictionalrendezvousbookblog.blogspot.com/ Feb 3 G & Co. Book Blog - Promo http://www.ggwblogs.blogspot.com Bound 2 Escape - Promo http://www.bound2escape.com Feb 4 Portals to New Worlds - Promo, Author Interview & Playlist http://authorkarenswart.blogspot.com Feb 5 Angels with Attitude Book Reviews - Promo, Author Interview & Playlist http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-joelle.blogspot.com Room With Books - Promo http://roomwithbooks.com A Little Bit of R&R - Promo http://alittlebitofrnr.com/

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Cat by Julie Dewey

 

 

Cat

Livin’ Large Series

Book 1

Julie Dewey

Genre: Romantic comedy BBW

Publisher: JWD Press

Date of Publication: 12/09/14

ISBN: 1505455626

ASIN: B00QT8Q1JQ

Number of pages: 110

Word Count: 51,022

Cover Artist: Anne Sabach

Book Description:

My name is Cat and I am one sexy, stylin’ lady who just so happens to be a phone sex operator, or as I like to say, conversation specialist. LOL! Now don’t go dissing me until you hear my story, because it’s a good one. I have been an operator for years, and feel it’s my job to make my clients comfortable when talking to me about their fetishes; and trust me, they can get weird. Most clients have your typical fascination with role-play and bondage, but some are really out there. Regardless of the scenario I have to maintain my professionalism. Don’t worry, I won’t get into all the nitty gritty, but I gotta do my job to make ends meet.

Especially after my sister Landa, the ho, disappears and dumps her four multicolored kids on me, indefinitely. Ronny is the oldest and he is afraid of his own shadow half the time. Michelle, or as I like to call her, Miss Thang, is a sassy, chubby, pre-teen who is always in the pantry. Zoe, falls somewhere in between and half the time you wouldn’t know she was there. Then there is the baby, Jesse, who is sort of caramel colored. He is a cutie pie but he has a dairy problem and it is rank. I didn’t sign up for this, but I admit the kids are growing on me.

In the meantime, I admit, I get lonely without a man. One of my clients, Dale, has been with me for four years. He is your basic nerdy type who has probably never been laid, but there is something about him I like. Most of the time we just talk during our conversations, but he is ready to meet in person and take things to the next level. I am confident in who I am, given my larger than average size, but I am still not sure I am up for a face-to-face with Dale. Then there is Ed, now he is HOT. Alright so he is married and has kids, big whoop, he stirs something in me and we have crossed the line from associates to lovers.

Suddenly I have gone from being a lonely operator to a woman with two men knocking at my door, literally.

Available at Amazon iTunes BN Kobo Inktera Scribd

My name is Cat. No, it isn’t short for Catherine or Catrina. It’s just plain old Cat, as in meow. Don’t ask me what my mother was thinking when she named me. Apparently during her labor she lost her mind. What I can tell you is that I took some serious hazing for my name growing up; you can only imagine the pussy references I endured. Good Lord. The other thing I will share is that I am a natural red head. Not that bright Ronald McDonald fresh-from-the-box shade of red, but a nice deep red bordering on auburn. Also, my hair is nice and thick, just like the rest of me. I am a plus size, juicy, stylin’ woman with a deep, sexy voice and get this folks; I get paid to have phone sex with your man. You heard me right, but in case it went in one ear and out the other the first time, I will repeat it. I am a phone sex operator, or as I like to think, a conversation specialist. Men, and occasionally women, from all over the world pay the big bucks to listen to me purr and moan. It’s a tough life, but somebody’s got to do it. I’m not being coy when I say that. Well, maybe I am a teeny bit.

I refer to the individuals who pay to listen to my sexy voice as my ‘clients’, although sometimes I think of them as my secret lovers. To call them my clients sounds more sophisticated and reminds me that what we have is a business relationship. It’s a given that the majority of my clients have crazy sexual fetishes, however, with me they have the opportunity to live out their fantasies in a judgment-free zone. I ain’t gonna lie, it can get weird, I mean you can only imagine my clientele, right? I roll with it though, and think of it like being an actress. I got a role to play and hell, I don’t actually meet the men in real life. Don’t get me wrong, we have a personal relationship. We get to know each other as we chat, but we do it all on the phone or online. The World Wide Web has changed my life. It has allowed me to create a business plan that I can execute right from the comfort of my kitchen. This byatch right here is on fire, so look out.

Let me explain the details of my job. I have a website called “Listen to the Kitty Purr”. I am an excellent graphic designer and I am all over social media. I have a Facebook page, Twitter account, Instagram, and even an old MySpace account that I keep active. I am up to fourteen thousand likes on my website for crying out loud. You’d be surprised how many followers I have on my blog and how many questions I get from other women who want to go into business for themselves and make money doing what I do. I have an image of a kitten on my home page, but when you scroll over her with your cursor, my image shows up in its place. I don’t show too much, just my cleavage and the tattoo of a red rose on my right shoulder. I leave the rest up to the client’s imagination, I am not a prostitute for Christ sakes. And for crying out loud I am NOT a lesbian. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that.) But geeze Louise, let it go already.

I have paid advertisements in all the usual places. My phone number and website information can be found on porn site ads as well as the back of magazines. I pay hefty advertising fees for these, but it’s always worth it. So is having a land line so I don’t drop calls or get interrupted.

On my website I have an outline explaining how my program works. If a person reads, and then agrees to both my terms and prices, they can contact me. I work by appointment only and get paid up front (I learned that the hard way), and find PayPal is the best and easiest service out there. My clients range from the anxious nerdy types to the overachievers. I have had government officials, schoolteachers, counselors, firemen, and even stay-at-home moms contact me.

Once I have been contacted, I do a quick background check on my client. Safety first. If they don’t have any arrests, I get started. You are probably wondering what sets me apart from other phone sex operators. In other words, why would your average Joe call me and bother with terms, when he can pick up the phone and dial Dolly from Lusty Lines without any bologna? The bottom line is that what I offer is more than just a one time rodeo. I am always available to my caller, so as we get to know one another, over time, our conversations become even more satisfactory.

Most of my competitors work for companies that employ dozens of people who answer phones and entertain their clients. If a client has a really good time with a particular operator and wants to get them again for a future call, chances are slim to none. Operators with made up names like Candy and Mindy are incentivized with bonuses to engage up to twenty clients per hour. I know, it’s crazy, right? I guess they work under the premise that the caller is already worked up and rarin’ to go when they phone in; so the average call is only three to six minutes long. I, however, stretch out my calls and enthrall the client to ensure he calls back, and he always does. I charge twenty dollars for the first two minutes and two dollars a minute after that. If I do things right, I can earn up to seventy-six dollars per half hour. That’s on the high end, but still it’s not too shabby especially when you compare it to the minimum wage my competitors are collecting.

I don’t negotiate my price. I do, however, negotiate what topics we can discuss and what type of play is allowed. I have to be very firm about this at the beginning of our call so that future calls go well. I am a businesswoman first and foremost. The raunchier and more outlandish the client’s tastes, the higher the rate. For instance, if a client is into listening to me tinkle, then I maintain my sense of humor and professional status while I engage their fantasy and charge them double. If I can’t laugh at this then I am in the wrong business. I draw the line at bestiality, satanism, or anything involving kids or incest. I am not into that stuff and don’t want to pretend to be. Most clients have the basic foot fetish, bondage fetish, or shower fetish that are pretty run of the mill. I have studied up on all the possible topics by reading erotica and doing web searches so I am pretty well versed in all areas. I even have a client that prefers I speak in an English accent. I am happy to oblige him as it’s a fairly easy accent to mimic. Once a client asked me to speak Chinese, well let’s just say that was a debacle because I laughed the whole time.

I divide my callers into three categories, four if you count the newbies or one timers. First, I have “clean” callers that prefer I don’t use foul language or talk dirty. They like a sweeter more wholesome experience and I give it to them. Second, I have “dirty” callers that like profanity and hot sex, usually involving toys or bondage. Third are the “dangerous” callers. These are the clients that want to know all about me. They want to know everything from my favorite foods, to how I dress, where I live, and what my family is like. Sometimes they ask if I have kids or pets, which are indicators of a clientele I probably don’t want to be talking to. If I ever have to cut anyone off, it’s usually from this list.

My busiest days of the year are Christmas and Valentine’s day when guys are feeling lonely and vulnerable and in need of company. My slowest day is Super-bowl Sunday. Otherwise I maintain a fairly steady stream of callers from ten a.m. to midnight. Anyone that calls after hours without an appointment and wakes me up gets charged double.

I keep a thesaurus on my counter at all times in case I run out of words for “baby” or to describe certain parts of the anatomy, believe me there are only so many times you can use the same word over and over again in a fifteen minute appointment. I usually dress up for my appointments as well. It’s true I could talk to my clients while wearing sweat pants and they would never know the difference, but I feel sexier if I am dressed to the nines and that comes across in the call.

I also keep lozenges on hand at all times, that and water bottles or hot tea with honey. I do A LOT of talking and my throat gets dry fast.

Another way to make bank is through merchandising. I have an extensive list of items that are for sale, including stockings, garter belts, perfumes, and undergarments among other things. You would not believe how many people ask for these items. I should buy stock at Victoria’s Secret! I stock up on the sales, which are usually five pairs of undies for twenty dollars, and then I double the cost for a client, plus shipping.

I earn every penny the hard way, get it? The “hard” way, God, I crack myself up. I build relationships with my clients and strive to keep it real. Not all our conversations are about sex, sometimes the men are lonely or just need to vent about their wives. That’s where the professional conversationalist part comes in handy. Sometimes I am more therapist than phone operator, and I take this role very seriously. I always want to help my clients if they are struggling. I also want to provide a safe haven for them, a place that they can share secret thoughts without feeling ashamed.

The work is interesting and I learn as I go. I don’t Skype with clients, but I do instant message in real time. I used to record myself moaning and groaning and just press play when a client needed a quick release, but one time a client shared the feed and I had to threaten the bastard with breach of contract and a court date. I like real time interactions better anyway because we can hear each other and really connect. I know when someone is engaged or distracted based on his or her voice. This makes it better for business.fe

Some of the men get excited before I even start talking dirty. I talk to them about everyday things while we chat and ‘get to know each other’. I tell them I am making waffles with whipped cream and strawberries to give them a visual, and let them picture me however they want. They might ask what I look like, and my classic response is, “what do you want me to look like?” I take his or her response and build it up. I start out pretty perky and ask all kinds of questions. I praise a man at every turn and build his ego, priming him for future phone calls. At this point of the phone call, or online chat, he thinks he is the one in control. I let him go on thinking that, it’s all part of my plan.

Describe yourself what is your worst and best quality?

I am a sexy, self-made woman. Repeat, I am a sexy , self-made woman.

What is the one thing you wish other people knew about you?

How funny I am!

What is your biggest secret something no one knows about?

I bite my toenails. It’s hard to reach, but I manage.

What are you most afraid of?

Rats. Especially rats that nibble on your clothing while you are tied up to a pole. Not fun.

What do you want more than anything?

To be a police officer.

What is your relationship status?

Married with five kids.

How would you describe your sense of fashion?

Stylish, but finding plus size clothing is not always easy, I have to get creative. I also love to mix things up with my wigs and make-up, keeps things
fresh!

How much of a rebel are you?

Total rebel.

What do you considered to be your greatest achievement?

Raising my sister, Landa the ho’s, four blackish kids. Ronny, he’s the oldest and he’s afraid of his own shadow. Michelle, I call her ‘Miss Thang’ because she is so sassy, Zoe who blends in and you wouldn’t know was there, and Jesse the baby, who has a dairy problem. We’re working on it though.

What is your idea of happiness?

Happiness is chocolate chip pancakes with the family, Dale singing while we cook together and all of us joining in.

What is your current state of mind?

My current state of mind is focused, girl. I’m studying for the civil service exam so I can enter the police academy. Props.

What is your most treasured possession?

My wigs. The short, sassy wig is the best; think Whitney Houston when she had short hair.

What is your most marked characteristic?

My red hair.

What is it that you, most dislike?

People who are mean. People who judge, I don’t have time for that business.

Which living person do you, most despise?

My sister, I mean who leaves their kids?

What is your greatest regret?

Not spending more time with my mom when she was alive. Damn cancer.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

Dale is my man, and I like his swagger. He’s a sexy son of a gun, especially when he sings.

If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?

I wouldn’t, I like myself just the way I am, plus-size and all.

What is your motto?

Life is short, eat dessert first. Damn straight.

 

 

 

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Julie Dewey is the author of four novels, including Forgetting Tabitha: The Story of an Orphan Train Rider, One Thousand Porches and The Back Building. Two books ranked #1 on Amazon’s Best Seller List. She resides in Central New York with her husband and two children.

Her husband is a sexy trucker, her daughter’s a Nashville crooner, and her son, well he hasn’t figured out what he is yet but he’s got time. Livin’ Large is Julie’s first book series and she applies the motto to her own life. Live large, love life, and be happy, dammit!

To learn more about Julie, visit her online:

http://juliedewey.com/

https://www.facebook.com/authorjuliedewey

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7179658.Julie_Dewey

Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Blood Prophecy: Queen’s Destiny by @BloodProphecy_1

 

Blood Prophecy: Queen’s Destiny

Blood Prophecy

Book 1

Barb Jones

Genre: Adult Paranormal

Publisher: World Castle Publishing, LLC

Date of Publication: October 1, 2014

ISBN: 978-1629891521

ASIN: B00NCN1CJU

Number of pages: 211 Kindle

282 Paperback

Word Count: 71,417

Cover Artist: Kip Ayers

Book Description:

Amber Stone, once a child prodigy, has just become curator of a special collection of Macedonian artifacts for the Seattle Museum of Natural History. Chloe, a prodigy of a different sort, holds a position at the museum focusing on tribal art. The two become fast friends, united by Amber's unsettling dreams and Chloe's unorthodox ways of dealing with them. Two strangers arrive in town, bringing with them a prophecy recorded more than three-thousand years ago, a prophecy that places Amber directly in the midst of a battle that has spanned a millennia.

Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/79ydZ0W26tk

Available at Amazon and BN

 

 

 

Describe yourself what is your worst and vest quality?

My worst quality would be that I am really impatient.  It’s hard for me, especially growing up in New York, to be patient with those that just can’t seem to think as fast as me.  My best quality would have to be my sense of intelligence.  It has allowed me to graduate with advanced degrees at such a young age and to be able to travel.

What is the one thing you wish other people knew about you?  

I think people must really think I am naïve because I’m too smart in the book sense and not in the world sense.  Just because at first I didn’t know that vampires, witches, and werewolves existed doesn’t mean that I am naïve. My eyes were not open at the time.

What is your biggest secret something no one knows about?

Hmm. I guess not a lot of people know that I was adopted.  In fact, it wasn’t like I came out and just said “Woo – guess what? I’m an orphan.”  My parents adopted me when I was an older child, but they treated me kindly and I loved them.  But, no one knows that I am ashamed of my birthmark.  It’s strange, not like a circle or anything.  But, it does represent my destiny and purpose.

What are you most afraid of?

These are really good questions (laughing).  I’m probably most afraid of Valentine.  He’s the hunter but there is something about him that makes me shudder.  I feel like I know him and am disappointed in him but I do not know how or why this is the case.  Valentine just gives me the creeps.

What do you want more than anything?

I want to fulfill the prophecy.  I want to bring peace to all of us.

What is your relationship status?

You could say that I am taken.  I’m in love with Michal.  He’s my lover, my maker and he is connected to me through these markings I have on my body.  They connect me to Marcus, Chloe and Michael.  They all connect through the birthmark.

How would you describe your sense of fashion?

 Well, I don’t dress as gothic as Chloe.  I’m a little more conservative but I’d like to think that I dress sexy!  I love to show off my curves and all.

How much of a rebel are you?

Not at all except I’m learning to fight, thanks to the prophecy.

What do you considered to be your greatest achievement?

Probably the day I turned 20 and graduated with a few advanced degrees from college.

What is your idea of happiness?

Isn’t happiness subjective?  Oh look there I go again.  I’m called “genius girl” by Chloe for that reason (giggles).  I think happiness comes when you are in complete peace with everything.

What is your current state of mind?

I am a genius girl!  No, seriously, my mind is filled with memories of the past lives that were led before Illyris merged with mine.  It can be confusing but I’m sane.  I’m genius girl!

What is your most treasured possession?

I wear this pendent like amulet

What is your most marked characteristic?

I would have to say it’s this birthmark.  It’s so unusual but as I am learning about my destiny and all, I’m learning that it’s tied to it.  It is a crescent shape and I try to keep it hidden.  People think it’s a tattoo but it’s not.

What is it that you, most dislike?

I really, really, really dislike cauliflower.  Isn’t that the funniest thing I could dislike?

Which living person do you, most despise?

I don’t think I really despise anyone.  I mean, the world is full of different people, human or supernatural.  I believe in peace and unification.

What is your greatest regret?

My greatest regret is not visiting my folks more while I was in college.  But I was such a bookworm that I couldn’t stop studying.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

I would probably say his honesty.  A man who can’t be honest doesn’t deserve to be around me. But if you want to know physical traits, I would say his shoulders.  The broader, the better!

What is the quality you most like in a woman?

I prefer women to be strong and courageous.

Who is your favorite hero in fiction?

I always loved Wonder Woman, growing up.

If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?

Sometimes I wish I could remove my birthmark.  It’s just that no one else has a birthmark in a weird shape.

What is your motto?

 I like to remind people of justification and peace.  There is a reason why we do things and we need to remember why we do them.

 

 

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Barb Jones is a multi-genre author with a very vivid imagination. She writes with an uncanny ability to draw you into the supernatural world. She also carries the talent to write for children and allows them to feel as if they belong to the magical world of King Arthur. Barb is also a successful IT director in addition to being a mother. Her world is filled with imagination, creativity and passion. She made her debut in the paranormal genre with the start of an amazing series called Blood Prophecy for adults and The Adventures of Little Arthur and Merlin the Magnificent for children.

Currently residing in Sarasota, Florida, she enjoys the beaches and sunshine.

www.thebloodprophecy.com

www.facebook.com/bloodprophecybooks

@BloodProphecy_1

Book Blast, Interview & Giveaway: Another Mazzy Monday by @karenmbryson

Presented by: Another Mazzy Monday - Tawnee Mountain Resort #1 by Savannah Young & Sierra Avalon Audience: Adult - Genre: Contemporary Romance - Formats: E-book - Publisher: Short on Time Books -Cover by: http://www.goonwrite.com/ - Editor: Shirley Pearson - Pages: 200 pages - ASIN: B00R0F9ZKY - Date Published: January 6, 2015 When the wealthy and charming Drew Graham walks into the Tawnee Mountain Resort where I work and offers me a lucrative part-time job it sounds too good to be true. I just have to pretend to be his fiancée until he wins the election for Governor and then we can go our separate ways. It seems like an easy way to make a hundred thousand dollars…until his brother, Austin, returns from Europe and moves in with us. And I’m completely overwhelmed by my attraction to my fake fiancé’s rebellious younger brother. Amazon / Goodreads When I finally hit the last room in a long row of rooms I see a guy sitting there looking bored and staring at two fast food containers in front of him on the table. He glances up at me when I enter. The first thing I notice is his piercing green eyes. I don’t think I’ve ever seen eyes that green on a human being that weren’t Photoshopped The second thing I notice is his messy, light brown hair. It doesn’t look like it’s been combed it in a week. It makes me wonder if it’s some new hair trend or if he just doesn’t bother to style it. Not that I have too much room to talk when it comes to hair. My curly red mop has been the bane of my existence since I was a kid. About the only thing I can ever do with it is pull it back into a pony tail. “Sedona?” I nod. “Have a seat.” He points to the chair right next to him. I remember Lewis’s warning and take a seat across the table instead. I want to be as close to the door as possible. The guy is big and muscular and much more intimidating than I imagined he’d be. My heart is thumping in my chest because his size and rough demeanor are making me nervous. When he pushes one of the fast food containers in my direction I cringe. I rarely eat fast food and when I do it’s from Just Veggies, an organic vegetarian place near campus. He doesn’t hesitate to open his container and take a bite of the messy burger that’s dripping some kind of white sauce all over his pile of fries. My stomach turns in response. “I bought you a burger.” He points to the second container he’s pushed in my direction. “Ambrose scheduled our sessions during lunch.” I make a point of pushing the container back over to him. “No thank you.” He frowns. “It’s from Frankie’s. Everybody loves Frankie’s burgers.” “Clearly not everyone.” His brows knit like he can’t believe I refused the food he bought. “You don’t want it?” He actually sounds hurt. “No, I don’t.” “Why?” I lift my book bag from the ground and point to one of the many political cause buttons I have covering the knitted tote my mom made for me. He barely acknowledges it. “What is that supposed to mean?” Now I’m the one who’s frowning. “Meat is murder. It’s a slogan. It means that I don’t eat animal flesh.” “You’re one of those vegans?” He doesn’t bother hiding the condescension in his voice. “Technically I’m a vegetarian. I eat free range, organic dairy products.” “Fine. I’ll eat the burger.” He glares at me as he opens the second container and takes a huge bite of the burger. I’m appalled until I notice that he slyly pushes both containers away and doesn’t take another bite of either burger. “I guess I should have brought an apple for the teacher.” “Only if it’s organic. And I’m not actually a teacher. I’m a tutor.” We both stare at each other for a long moment. Awkward does not even begin to describe our pairing. We’re like two people from different planets trying to communicate when we don’t speak each other’s languages. I remove a slip of paper from my bag. “Mr. Ambrose gave me your schedule of classes for the semester. You’re taking Film Appreciation, The History of Jazz, Advanced Yoga and Stress Management. What’s your major?” He shrugs. “Undeclared right now. But I’ll probably go with Sports Management.” “So these are Gen Ed classes?” He cocks his head and looks confused. “General Education classes,” I clarify. “Elective classes you need to take to fulfill requirements that aren’t directly related to your major.” “I guess so.” I’m a little disturbed by his lackadaisical attitude, but I let it go for the moment. We’re clearly not going to be able to develop much of a rapport so maybe it’s best just to get down to business. “We’re just handed a class schedule,” he clarifies. “Assigned classes. We don’t pick them ourselves.” “And they assigned you the History of Jazz? That’s the class that you’re having trouble with?” “The dude who was supposed to teach the class croaked and they got this new chick who apparently doesn’t like basketball.” There is so much wrong with his statement I don’t even know where to begin. “Might I suggest that you call your professors either professor or doctor and not chick.” I bristle at my own use of the derogatory word, but I continue, “And what does her not liking basketball have to do with your performance in the class.” At this he gives me a sly smile. “Let’s just say she’s not willing to play ball the way the other professors are.” I’m not sure exactly what he means by that, but there seems to be some kind of sports reference that is lost on me. “So you’re saying your other classes are going well and you’re just having trouble with the one class, History of Jazz?” He leans back in his chair and eyes me for a few seconds before he nods. I don’t like when he looks at me like that. It’s like he’s examining some weird, new specimen and trying to make sense of it. “All of my other teachers are huge basketball fans and they know I’m the in the starting lineup. I’m not sure what the jazz goddess’s problem is.” I take in a deep breath before I say something that’s sure to get me fired. “Why don’t we start by calling her Dr. Fisher? I think that might help. And why do you think she has a problem?” “She doesn’t like basketball. That’s not normal. Everybody loves basketball. This entire campus lives and breathes the sport.” “I don’t love basketball. I don’t even like it. Not even a little bit.” He actually looks stunned for a moment. Like I slapped him. Then he regains his cocky composure. “You’re one weird chick,” he mutters almost to himself, but still loud enough that I can hear him. “Excuse me?” I say even though I heard him. I just didn’t like having an insult hurled at me by someone I don’t even know. “You. Are. One. Weird. Chick.” His words are slower and louder as if I didn’t hear him the first time. “I actually heard what you said. I just didn’t like it.” A smug smirk appears on his face that I would love to slap right off if I could. I continue. “In case you haven’t noticed I’m not a bird I’m a human being. I’d appreciate it if you didn’t refer to me as a chick.” He bites his bottom lip as if he’s actually giving it some thought. Then he says, “You’re one weird woman. Is that better?” “I’m not sure why you have to bring gender into the equation at all. Why not just call me a weird person?” That makes him laugh. “You don’t care that I think you’re weird. You just don’t want me to call you a chick?” “I’ve been weird my whole life. I’m used to it.” “At least you’re willing to own it.” “So did you bring your textbook with you or are you just going to spend the next ninety minutes taunting me?” “I kind of like taunting you.”     

Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be? Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?

I have worked as a counselor and an educator. I currently work as a university professor in addition to writing romance novels.

What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?

Another Mazzy Monday

Falling in love with her fake fiancé’s younger brother was not part of the plan…

Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?

I own my own publishing company, Short on Time Books. I publish my own books as well as the work on 15 other authors.

How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?

About four to six weeks.

What can we expect from you in the future?  ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?

I write romance novels using four pen names: Savannah Young, Dakota Madison, Sierra Avalon and Ren Monterrey. I have plans to write several other New Adult romances, a romantic suspense series and a comedic paranormal romance series under my various pen names.

What genre would you place your books into?

Contemporary romance and New Adult Romance

How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?

I started writing when I was about four years old, shortly after I learned to read. I’ve been writing ever since!

Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?

I try to write for at least two hours immediately after I wake up in the morning.

Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?

No way! I learned a long time ago not to read my reviews. Other people’s opinions of me or my work is their business not mine.

Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?

Sometimes I choose the title first and then write the book. Other times I write the book and then choose the title. It depends!

How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?

I try to make up places, if possible. Or I use places I am very familiar with. That’s why so many of my books take place in Arizona, New Jersey or Florida. Those are the places in which I’ve lived the longest.

Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?

I prefer paperback, but I will read anything.

What is your favorite book and Why?  Have you read it more than once?

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I’ve only read it once. I gave my copy to my mom to read after I finished it.

Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer? 

Some books work well as movies, others don’t. My favorite adaptation is The Devil Wears Prada.

Your favorite food is? 

 Asian Indian

Your favorite singer/group is?  

 Pearl Jam

Your favorite color is?   

Blue

Your favorite Author is?   

Colleen Hoover

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway      USA TODAY Bestselling author Karen Mueller Bryson writes romance under four pen names. SAVANNAH YOUNG’s stories take place in fictional OLD TOWN, which is very much like the rural Northwest New Jersey town in which she grew up. SIERRA AVALON’s stories always include a bit of sass and lots of spice. When Karen isn’t on her computer writing new novels she likes to spend time with her husband and their bloodhounds in their home outside Phoenix, Arizona. Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Amazon / Pinterest Tour Schedule - One Week Blog Tour for Another Mazzy Monday, Tawnee Mountain Resort #1 by Savannah Young & Sierra Avalon from Jan 26 to Feb 3, 2015 Jan 26 Books, Authors, Blogs - Promo http://therightbook4u.blogspot.com Coffee Books & Art - Promo http://sarityahalomi.blogspot.com/ Fictional Rendezvous Book Blog - Promo http://fictionalrendezvousbookblog.blogspot.com/ Jan 27 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too! - Promo http://3partnersinshopping.blogspot.com Angels with Attitude Book Reviews - Promo, Author Interview & Playlist http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-joelle.blogspot.com Jan 28 The Avid Reader - Promo, Dream Cast, Character Bio's, Author Interview & Playlist http://the-avidreader.blogspot.com Room With Books - Promo http://roomwithbooks.com Jan 29 Reading by the Book - Promo & Top Ten http://www.readingbythebook.com Booky Ramblings of a Neurotic Mom - Promo & Top Ten http://bookyramblingsofaneuroticmom.blogspot.co.uk/ Jan 30 Evanlea's Bookshelf - Promo & Playlist http://evanleabookshelf.weebly.com/book-news Indy Book Fairy - Promo & Character Bio's http://paranormalbookfairy.blogspot.com/ Feb 2 Deal Sharing Aunt - Promo http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com Eclipse Reviews - Promo, Dream Cast, Character Bio's & Playlist http://eclipsereviews.weebly.com Feb 3 Portals to New Worlds - Promo, Dream Cast, Character Bio's, Author Interview & Playlist http://authorkarenswart.blogspot.com A Little Bit of R&R - Promo, Character Bio's, Dream Cast & Playlist http://alittlebitofrnr.com/

Book Blast: At His Service by @Suzanne_Rock

   BOOK INFORMATION

TITLE – At His Service Part 1 SERIES – Playboys of Boston AUTHOR – Suzanne Rock GENRE – Contemporary/Serial PUBLICATION DATE – 2/3/15 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 60 pages PUBLISHER – St. Martin’s Press

     BOOK SYNOPSIS

First in an exclusive and red hot mini-series from New York Times bestselling author Suzanne Rock.

Leo Perconti's life is spinning out of control. As head of his family’s hotel conglomerate, it’s his job to save his family from bankruptcy. At the center of his turmoil is Karin Norell, a quiet, alluring housekeeping manager who compliments his dominating personality and lets him feel in control once more.

As Karin explores her passion her feelings for Leo deepen. Unfortunately, Karin and Leo come from different worlds, and when the two worlds collide, the cost can be devastating. As the service staff at The Palazzo rise up against the Perconti family, both Leo and Karin are faced with losing what each of them holds most dear. Together they must learn that true power comes from vulnerability and trust that can only happen when you let your insecurities go.

Read all four parts of this sensational e-series—and look for the full volume of At His Service in June 2015 from St. Martin’s Paperbacks.

BUY & TBR LINKS

AMAZON KINDLE US – AMAZON KINDLE CA – AMAZON KINDLE UK – AMAZON PAPERBACK – BARNES & NOBLES NOOK – BARNES & NOBLES PAPERBACK – ITUNES – GOODREADS – SHELFARI

EXCERPT

“Damn,” Leo muttered and downed the rest of his glass. “Political connections.” He shook his head and turned toward the bar. “They’re all playing him for a fool.”

Oh shit. Karin had been so caught up in the exchange she’d forgotten to move. How was she going to get across the living area and back to the service elevator without him noticing?

Leo let out a frustrated growl and gripped his tumbler until his knuckles turned white. Tension filled the room, and Karin held her breath.

“Everyone in this family is so self-centered. None of them can see what their selfishness is doing to the company.” He tightened his jaw. “Or to me.”

Karin thought he was going to throw his glass, but he didn’t. Instead, he placed it on the bar and pulled a small pill bottle out of his suit jacket pocket. Karin tried to focus on the writing, but couldn’t make out the words. Leo placed the bottle on the bar next to the ice bucket and pinched the bridge of his nose.

Dismissing the bottle, he let out a long breath as he refilled his drink and made his way toward the bathroom. Toward her.

Shit, shit, shit. Karin glanced around the bathroom. There was nowhere to hide. She clutched the cell phone to her chest and squeezed behind the door. Leo breezed past her into the room and turned on the hot water in the large tub. Steam rolled up from the marble basin, filling the small space. Karin held her breath as Leo undid the buttons of his suit coat and shrugged it onto the floor.

He’s undressing. Karin tried to force her muscles to move, but they refused to listen. She watched as Leo placed his glass of scotch on the floor and then peeled off his layers of clothing, one by one.

For once, Karin didn’t mind the mess. Wes was right, the Perconti brothers were sinfully handsome, and the oldest brother was the best looking of the lot. His tan stretched up his muscular arms, around his perfectly formed shoulders, and down his lean, angular back. Even his firm, tight ass was a golden color, putting delicious thoughts of Leo sunbathing nude in her mind.

She could easily picture his sleek body stretching out on some Italian beach, soaking up the sun. Karin wondered what it would feel like to press up against such a flawless physique and feel those solid hips between her legs.

She dropped her gaze down his torso as he turned toward the marble tub. Dark hair dotted his chest and lower abdomen, drawing her attention to his long, thick cock. Karin’s heartbeat drummed in her ears as he stepped into the bath. Something fluttered inside her as she imagined crawling in alongside him and running soap along his athletic frame.

Oh God, she needed to focus. It had been far too long since she’d had sex, even longer since she’d had great sex. Looking at the grace and muscular beauty of Leo Perconti’s body, she knew that a night with him would go a long way toward alleviating all of the stress that had been building up inside of her.

A dull ache formed between her thighs as she imagined straddling his hips and taking his hard cock deep inside her channel. She reached down her torso and pressed her hand against her mound and imagined his muscular body pressing up against hers. Embarrassment at her boldness heated her cheeks.

She bit back a groan of disappointment as Leo slid under the warm bathwater. His back was once again facing her and she knew that if she wanted to save her job, then she had to get out of there, fast.

Enough daydreaming. It was time to go. After one long, wistful glance at Leo, she slipped out from behind the door and edged out into the hallway.

“Stop.”

Karin froze as the thick Italian accent rose up from the tub.

“Come here.”

Karin turned back to the bathroom, unsure of what to do. She judged the distance from her spot to the elevator and wondered if she should make a run for it. Her escape depended on Wes having sent the elevator back up for her. If she had to wait for the doors to open, then she’d be caught. If Leo found cleaning staff in his room, she could get in trouble. Could she trust Wes to send the elevator back for her?

“I know Marco sent you.”

Karin blinked. “Excuse me?”

Leo chuckled. “There’s no need to be coy with me. I know all about my brother’s ‘connections.’ If the man spent as much effort fixing up this hotel as he did bedding socialites, we wouldn’t be in this mess.” He raised his glass to his lips. “So tell me, are you the pushy one, or the one who was willing to please?”

“I’m sorry, I …” Did Leo think she was one of the socialite friends Marco had offered him earlier? She scrunched her nose in disgust. She wasn’t an empty-headed socialite. And yet, there was something rather appealing about the idea of pleasing him.

“Don’t tell me you’re a man,” he said.

“I—no.” She glanced back at Leo’s long, lean form as it lounged in the tub. Wes’s words floated through her mind. You need some sex, girlfriend. Loosen up. “Not a guy.”

“I thought as much. You don’t sound like a man. Come here and let me see if my brother’s friends are as beautiful as he claims.”

Leo Perconti was brazen. She should feel offended, but that voice did things to her body that made her want more. Karin wanted to obey his command and see where things led. Besides, Leo didn’t ever have to know her real identity. It was the perfect opportunity for a glorious night of passion without consequence.

No, there was one consequence, a huge one. Leo was her boss’s boss. If he found out that she’d tried to deceive him, then he’d take it out on Marco. Not only would she be fired, but Marco could and probably would make the entire staff suffer for her indiscretion.

But then again, wasn’t she in charge of making sure Leo had a pleasant stay? If the night went well and he was in a better mood around his brother, then she would have done her job. It wasn’t like they’d be constantly running into each other. The staff was supposed to stay out of sight as much as possible. If by chance they should see each other again, she could always play ignorant. No one would have to know what had happened in this hotel room except her.

Karin looked from the hallway to the bathroom and back again. All she had to do was accept the night for what it was—pure physical bliss. No strings attached. If she could get away with this … it would be one hell of a night.

Resolved, Karin pocketed Wes’s cell phone and straightened her skirt. She paused over the hem as a new revelation hit her. Shit, my uniform. Leo would mark her as an employee as soon as he saw her.

Perhaps it could be part of the game. She could tell Leo that she’d needed the uniform to get past the paparazzi downstairs undetected. All she had to do was come across confident of her abilities.

Confidence. Ever since she had caught her former boss fucking a politician in his office, Karin’s confidence had remained hidden. She wasn’t sure if she had it in her to pulls omething like this off.

“Are you coming?” Leo asked. “Or am I going to have to come out and get you?”

“No, I’m coming.” She could do this, she just needed to stop overthinking.

Didn’t Wes just accuse her of being too serious? This night was about de-stressing and relaxing.

Karin cleared her throat and adjusted her bra. Her breasts were on the small side of normal, but hopefully they’d be enough to please him. She undid the top few buttons of her blouse, revealing the upper curve of her breasts. After pinching her cheeks, she hid her shaking hands behind her back and concentrated on swaying her hips as she moved closer to the large, marble tub. Here goes nothing.

OTHER BOOKS TO COME OUT IN THIS SERIES

At His Service Part 2 – February 10, 2015 - At His Service Part 3 – February 17, 2015 - At His Service Part 4 – February 24, 2015 - At His Service – June 2, 2015

AUTHOR BIO

A lifetime New Englander, Suzanne married her college sweetheart and has been with him for over twenty years. Every summer she drags her husband and two daughters to Maine on a quest for the perfect lobster dinner. Every fall she can be found down in Foxboro, Massachusetts cheering on her favorite football team. In between those trips, she’s a chauffeur, a maid, a chef, an event planner, a hairdresser, a wardrobe stylist, a tutor and a sometimes masseuse. To keep her sanity, she often drinks copious amounts of coffee and stares at the blank screen of her laptop, dreaming of great adventures. Sometimes she even writes them down for others to enjoy.

AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE / BLOG – FACEBOOK – TWITTER – GOOGLE+ - PINTEREST – TUMBLR – GOODREADS – SHELFARI – TSU

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Cover Reveal–Tranquility - Serenity Series #2 by @AvaOShay

Presented by: Sparkle Book Tours Tranquility - Serenity Series #2 by  Ava O’Shay Audience: New Adult - Genre: Contemporary Romance m/m - Formats: E-book and Paperback - Publisher: Ava O’Shay - Cover by: Raven Books and Design - Editor: Kara Leigh Miller - Expected Date of Publishing: March 9, 2015 Never believing he deserved more, Quill goes through life taking what he can and avoiding any meaningful relationships. Until he gets a job at a local guitar shop and discovers a talent for making music. Soon Quill meets Assad, a broody bass player who lives by the motto “love has no boundaries”. Struggling with nightmares of an abusive past and where exactly his heart lies, Quill has to decide how far he’s willing to go to find love. Goodreads / Amazon “I am not getting coffee with you.” Quill scowled. “Why not?” “Why not?” She laughed. “Yeah. Why not. You don’t like coffee?” Cori was sure he didn’t have a clue why she was turning him down. In fact, she kind of wanted to accept his invitation, but when she looked at his confused expression, it just made it worse. “Maybe because I saw you and your girlfriend last night in the hall.” “She isn’t my girlfriend.” “You know that doesn’t really help your case.” He frowned. “Yeah I guess it doesn’t” Cori bent down to collect her music folder. “You know you shouldn’t be so high and mighty. You were the rocker chick dressed in a skirt so short she gave the front row pussy shots all night, but apparently you have a set of higher morals when it comes to drinking coffee.” “I was not giving pussy shots. Whatever the hell that is. And even if I was, it’s different than sticking something in a pussy.” She crossed her arms over her chest. “You afraid?” His cocky tone was back. “Of your herpes ass? I don’t think so.” Quill suppressed a laugh. “I don’t think you can get herpes on your ass.” “I wouldn’t know.” “Nor would I. Coffee?” He tried again. “You can’t get herpes from coffee.” Quill’s gaze dropped to her hands. After many years trudging through the social awkwardness of high school and the whirl wind of college romances Ava finally landed in the Seattle area writing about the hell, horror, and don't forget the hot romance of youth. Ava loves all things outdoors and can be found hiking, kayaking, mountain biking or doing anything active. Ava is a former Mrs. Washington United States but hung up her crown to focus on family and career. She loves to learn and possess many degrees. She is a Christy McCullough Excellence in Education Award winner and she is Nationally Board Certified. Ava loves to interact with her readers and meet them at signings so never be shy to come up and give her a hug and ask for anything. Blog / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Amazon / Pinterest