Aimee Duffy's Blog, page 15

Interview with the talented Lindsay J. Pryor

I’ve not only snatched up Lindsay J. Pryor to tell us a little more about Caitlin Parish and the bad ass (and let’s not forget sexy) vamp, Kane Malloy, but I get to interview both of them too!
Blood Shadows is the first Book in Lindsay’s Blackthorn Series featuring dangerous ‘third-species’ in a futuristic world where vampires, werewolves and other nasties live amongst, and separate from, humans.    
We’ll kick it off with Lindsay’s take on Caitlin and Kane…
What was it like to work with Caitlin & Kane? I can’t imagine they made your life easy.
Caitlin was really good to work with. She kept her head down and got on with what she needed to do. She did have her moments winding Kane up or exacerbating the situation, which had me sighing with despair or worrying for what that would evoke Kane to do, but she knows her own mind so it’s inevitable I guess. And Kane does tend to push her buttons.
Kane was a handful from beginning to end. He took on such a personality of his own that half the time I didn’t know what he was going to do. I’d plan out scenes and then he’d say something or do something that would evolve into a whole other conflict or confrontation. He changed the whole end of Blood Shadows from the original plan.
As a couple, they were effortless. I just left them too it most of the time. They spark off each other so easily and even during the silent moments they’d be sussing each other out. It really was a lot of fun writing them.
I can imagine Kane changed the story to suit himself, but that’s why we love him!
Can you give us five things you like about Caitlin?
I like her tenacity, her drive and her refusal to be intimidated. I admire the way she worked her way from shadow reader to securing a place in the VCU. Obviously I know much more about her background than what appeared on the page and she had some tough moments trying to prove herself in the past. A lot of her colleagues didn’t want to give her a chance. She’s got a good heart and has the best intentions, even if she is a little naïve at times. But I respect the fact she knows her own mind.
And Kane?
Where to start with Kane… His loyalty. His ability to see things as they are. The fact he’s not ashamed of who he is. I like how upfront he is. And he has a genuine tenderness about him under all that raw sexuality.
What annoys you the most about them?
I think Caitlin doesn’t help herself sometimes. She’s lucky Kane is the vampire he is or I think she could have met a tragic end already. Sometimes her refusal to be intimidated does mean she’ll walk into situations that on occasion (in her past) she’s been lucky to get out of intact.
As for Kane, he can be so stubborn. And he can’t let things go.
I know Caitlin believes she can handle Kane, keep control of any situation between them, but do you think she can?
Hmm. I tried to equip her that way, but Kane is quite a force to be reckoned with. Obviously Caitlin will never be able to handle Kane physically, but very few can. Intellectually I think she gives as good as she gets and I think she handles those situations with Kane exceptionally well. Emotionally it’s a constant one-upmanship there so I’m never quite sure who’s in control – whoever is less vulnerable at the time, I guess! I don’t think Caitlin keeps control of many situations but there are plenty of occasions when I think she manages it as best she can.
And Kane’s very self-assured, almost like he believes nothing and nobody can touch him. Do you think that’s a front?
I don’t think it’s all a front, no. He’s a survivor. He learned to look after himself from a very young age, let alone his sister (who was quite a handful, by the way!). He’s got a lot of life experience, he’s smart, he can handle himself physically, and emotionally he’s developed quite the tough shell. He’s trained himself not to show weakness and self-assurance is the first step in that direction. Caitlin had him worried on a few occasions though and he didn’t like that, so I think he does know he has a vulnerable side.
Did you always know the spark between them would lead to something more?
The moment I put characters on a page, I can tell if they’ll work or not. It’s a technique I use when I’m trialling new stories. I have characters in mind, think of a core conflict that’s integral to the plot and lock them in a room alone together and see what happens. If the dialogue sparks, I know they’re a match. Add sexual attraction and I know I’m onto a winner. I basically speed date my characters. Kane and Caitlin hit it off from the moment they met in that corridor (or down an alley as I wrote it in the novella version). It was instantly as if I wasn’t even there and I think that always makes the best stories.
What a fantastic idea, and I could feel the sparks on that scene in the corridor.
Who do you think changes the most during their time together, and is it who you expected?
I think they both do. I won’t say too much because of spoilers, but I think they both become more of who they are when they’re together. I think they liberate each other in a good way.
I was lucky enough to catch up with Kane and Caitlyn way back when. Thought I’d save this interview for a special occasion though I’ll admit, Kane had me shaking in my Jimmy Choos. Still, I was tempted to slip behind the vamp-proof glass…
We’ll start with Caitlin, since she’s the one with the obsession ;)
*adopts Jeremy Kyle’s persona*
Q) When did you decide you wanted to join the Vampire Control Unit?
Caitlin: The moment I was old enough to understand what my dad did for a living. I used to listen to him talk to Rob – that’s my ex – about the job. I always admired what they did. It’s tough enough out there on the streets of Blackthorn, but the VCU take on aspects of third species management that you wouldn’t want to wish on your worst enemy. My dad was a brave man – one of the unsung heroes out there doing their best to safeguard us all. I guess I wanted to continue his work. I believe strongly that the only way we’ll ever find neutral territory with the third species is by taking out the anarchic first.
Q) Do you think that’s a decision your parent’s would support if they were still with us?
Caitlin: Mum never wanted me to go into it – I guess because of what happened to dad. They didn’t even want me to take up the shadow reading but they had no choice in that. Shadow readers are under obligation to train and use their skills – those who make it through the training, that is. When I told mum I wanted to transfer to the VCU she wasn’t happy at all. Neither was Rob. I know they were just worried for me. I know my dad wouldn’t be happy either as he knows exactly what the job entails. I think he’d be proud of how well I’ve done though. I guess sometimes you’ve got to find your own way in life and do what you feel is right for you.
Q) Caitlin, we all know how hard you’ve worked to get where you are in the Vampire Control Unit, but why choose Kane Malloy as the project as so many have failed?
Caitlin: Because so many have failed. Kane Malloy needs to be brought in. He’s got too much power on the streets of Blackthorn. He’s building up to something and we need to know what. If others can’t bring him in, I will.
Q) Aren’t you worried you might end up in the missing person’s database?
Caitlin: I can handle myself. I can also handle Kane. I’m not going in cold. I’ve spent years studying him. I think the only person who would know him better is his mother, and I know things about him I’m sure even she never knew.
Q) Well, I hope for your sake you know what you are doing. I didn’t think being a shadow reader makes you a fighter. What is your plan for bringing in Kane, or is that confidential?
Caitlin: As a shadow reader, you’ve got to be a fighter. Some of these third species’ shadows are dark places. I’ve seen things I’d rather forget. It’s also showed me just what they’re capable of. As for Kane, I have ways and means of bringing him in. And once he’s in, he’s staying in. I’ll see to that.
Q) Is there more to this than doing your job, Caitlin? It seems to go beyond what you do. Like you’re obsessed with him in some way…
Caitlin: I’m obsessed only with doing my job to the best of my ability. And I don’t appreciate the insinuation to anything to the contrary. So if you’ll excuse me, there are things I have to do.
Hmmm, I think she’s fibbing a little…
And Kane…
*hides behind vampire proof glass*
Q) Have you always lived in Blackthorn, or were you born somewhere else?
Kane: I was born elsewhere. Where exactly is my business. I’m here now and I have my reasons.
Q) *holds hands up* Okay, next question. I’d like to know if the rumours are true.Are you the most feared vampire in Blackthorn, and if so, can you tell us why?
Kane: *smirks* You’re the one behind vampire proof glass, you tell me.
Q) True, though I’d have to even if you weren’t Kane Malloy. Just a precaution, you see. Anyway, let’s move on. People believe you’re cold and heartless, but I don’t think that’s completely true. Losing your sister must have been hard. Do you want to talk about it?
Kane: Do I look like I want to talk about it? Maybe if you come around this side of the glass, I’ll be more tempted to share my feelings.
Q) No, you don’t look like you want to talk at all. *grinds teeth together*. I’ve been hearing whispers of a vampire prophecy. Are the rumours true?
Kane: It depends what rumours you’ve heard. How about we discuss what you know somewhere more private?
Q) I’ll pass, thanks. Let’s move onto something safer. Why do you fight so hard against the VCU, why not respect the law like most third species? Do you have a God complex, Kane?
Kane: Their laws – not mine. God complex, huh? Thanks for the compliment. I’m sure he’ll be flattered.
Q) I’m sure you’ve heard about the new agent they have on your case. Do you think this one will succeed?
Kane: Agent Caitlin Parish – the VCU’s golden girl. Yes, I’ve heard she’s on my case. She’s the one who likes to think she’s in control, right? Needless to say we haven’t met. Yet.   
Well, thank you Kane for being here. I’m sure the effort wasn’t as painful as you make it seem.
Now I’m going to gush. Blood Shadows is a really amazing story. I pre-ordered it the first day I could. The second it plopped through my letterbox I devoured it, all in the space of twenty-four hours. But it wasn’t just the sexy and elusive Kane, or the feisty and determined Caitlyn which held my interest.
Blood Shadows has sexual tension that rivals the best erotic stories (and the love scenes are explosive as a result), but the anticipation, the speed at which the plot twists and turns away from the predictable left me breathless. Add to that the strong emotions that develop between the two, the inevitable doom every page seems to bring and two deep, well-rounded characters and I think I found my favourite book of 2012. Also, I’ll say very little on this but the twist in the end of this book left me gobsmacked (in a good way). I couldn’t believe I missed that!
If you’re still not sure Blood Shadows is the book for you (the mind boggles), Lindsay has excerpts on her website, here.
Here’s the back cover copy:- Gifted with the ability to read the shadows of ‘third species’ beings, Caitlin Parish is the Vampire Control Unit’s most powerful agent. Despite that, her mission to hunt down Kane Malloy – a master vampire – comes with a death wish. Many have tried but few have survived.For Caitlin, tracking Kane is about more than just professional reputation. With her parents both mysteriously killed seven years apart to the day, Caitlin knows that without Kane’s help she is next.She has four days to make a deal with the wicked, the irresistible, the treacherous Kane Malloy.The vampire who despises everything she stands for.Or die.    One of many...   You can buy Blood Shadows on Amazon in paperback or for the Kindle. I have to warn you though, it’s not for the feint hearted! ;)
Thank you for agreeing to come on my blog today Linds. It has been a ball getting to know these two better. Can’t wait for Blood Roses to be released.
XOXO

Why we love Christmas

Melissa Blue and I both have Christmas stories out this month and thought we’d do something a little different. 

In true Christmas fashion, we’ve taken the twelve days of Christmas and turned it around to our twelve reasons for loving the season. 
We’ll kick it off with Mel:- 
Since we've split the difference here are my reasons for loving Christmas.
The Christmas Story. The old school black and white version. Love that movie. Love it. But, for some reason there's a deep gouge in my copy. Right where Scrooge stands at his grave. But I swear it's a great comedy. You should all go see it. I laugh every time I do.Because nothing gets me more excited than the thought of spending so much time with my family. I even prepare a few weeks out by stock piling Xanax and Lexapro.Gifts. I ask for the same thing every year because nothing says Merry more than something with an 80 proof percentage. Yes, you guessed it—I ask for booze.In-Laws. Oh, they are my fav out of everything on this list. I love seeing them pull up to my home. They usually come bearing gifts and when they leave my children are usually with them. Because usually by then my lovely little * coughheathenscough * angels have spent a week asking me when can they open up their gifts.Candy Canes. Years back I've learned that you can eat one and then somehow the end will turn into a sharpened point. Great for stabbing...gifts open. (Or eyes. Or family. Or in-laws.)Ok. I lied. My all-time favorite part of Christmas is all the stock photos you can find showing me what this holiday really means. Why it's the thought that counts. Really, really. 
CollegeHumor's Favorite Funny Videos
See. Doesn't that make YOU feel all warm and fuzzy about Christmas? And now for me:- 

That makes me feel something, but jury’s still out on what.  
And my six reasons… 
I’m Scottish, we love an excuse for a good party, and this is the ultimate party season. Older or younger, teetotaler or alcoholic, the pubs, restaurants and clubs are always jam packed this month. Regardless of the chill, all the women dress scantily, the guys go out without jackets and we all pretend blue skin is sexy. My crazy family. I have one of those massive families, on both sides, and on Christmas day it’s a constant stream of people passing through my parents’ home. From silly o’clock right through until it's past time to pass out on the bathroom floor there are people crammed into every corner. But it isn’t annoying, even if I have to sit on the floor or in another room. Some of them live in England, some Ireland and Christmas is the only time I get to catch up with them all. Though this year I’m a bit worried as a lot of them read my debut and my family aren’t shy in telling me what they think, and they aren't subtle about it! Shoes. Clothes. Fluffy slippers. Flannel jammies. Handbags. I get these all every year and I love it. Though at 26 I think I’m a bit old for pressies, but the rule in my family is you get the gifts showered on you until you have kids so I’m making the most of the fact I’m childless at the moment ;o) Singstar. For all who don’t know it’s a game for the Xbox/Playstation. My teenage brother has the game and the only time he is too happy to care about us trying to sing is Christmas day. It gets very competitive in my parents’ house, with all of us having a go at the songs and trying to get a higher score than everyone else. I’d love to say I’m up there with the winners, but sadly my singing voice doesn’t rival Adele’s. I sound more like a cat being swung about in a sack… Buchannan Street in Glasgow. I try to make a point of visiting every year. The shops are always filled with people frantically getting their Christmas shopping sorted, but being a last minute kind of girl, I only go for the Christmas lights and trees. No matter how much I hate decorations in my house (it looks so depressing when they all come down), I love looking at the decorations and Glasgow has some of the best I’ve seen. Especially after 4pm when the sun goes down and the lights go on. Vodka jellies. I’m not one for shots usually but on Christmas day all that goes out the window. My mum makes enough to get fifty people drunk (and that’s not including the champagne, wine, vodka and beer she keeps stocked for visitors). Also, it really helps with my confidence when playing Singstar :o)
And I’ve found a Christmas pic of my own.
 Now that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy! Mel’s Sugar Plum Kisses is available now on Amazon and I, for one, adore it!




Twelve days to entice her...

Two years, two missed opportunities and Blaine Tucker refuses to have another chance pass him by. This Christmas he's going to risk it all to have Simone Michelson. Unfortunately the woman of his dreams, his wants and desires ties his tongue into knots. She's kind, sexy and funny as hell. Even if she could see him in a new way, he's not sure if the heartache of her past will stand in their way. There's only one solution: entice her with gifts. The kind of gifts that don't say he's a nice guy. A nice guy who also happens to be her boss.

Who in their right mind would take one look at Mousy Simone and want to leave her seductive gifts and love notes? No one she can think of. She hopes like hell it's Tucker, but if he felt anything for her, he'd have said it by now. The man could smile at any woman and get her to forget her name or morals. He's vibrant and she's drab. He's nice and she's prickly. Even if her Christmas wish came true, how could she trust what he felt was real?

Together they must face their fears and doubts to make this year's Christmas unforgettable.  You can find it here:- 
Amazon UK; Amazon US

You can find Mel here.
And my holiday short, Believe In Me, is part of a Beachwalk Press anthology with stories by ten talented authors. Holiday Kisses is free right now and you can find it here:- Beachwalk Press; All Romance Ebooks; Kobo; Coffee Time Romance; BookStrand; Manic Readers.
What do you guys love about the holidays?

What I’ve learned so far…revisions

Okay, I’m cheating a bit because I haven’t actually finished these revisions. In fact, I’ve only outlined a plan to tackle them. I think this post will be split into two—one before, one after.

If you’ve been following this blog you’ll know that I had a revise and resubmit from Harlequin on another story, a full request with revisions for my SYTYCW entry, Flirting With Trouble and at the end of last month I received revisions on the full.
They weren’t too bad, honestly, but at first glance they seemed daunting. The main thing I had to change is what Alexa ends up doing for the hunky, Spanish, Enrique (Ric). Unfortunately this means a lot of what I had isn’t going to work, but I think a couple of my favourite scenes can be salvaged.
Ric is too much like a Presents hero at the moment, but the lovely Incy Black suggested an easy fix for this allowing me to keep him alpha, but more RIVA. (See, writing buddies are worth their weight in gold at times like these). Also Michelle Smart gave me a great idea to move forward with.
For me, I think rewriting is the cleanest and easiest way to move forward. I don’t have to change much in the first three chapters, only tweak to fit my new Ric, so that part should be easy enough. From chapter four onward in the plan, I’ve sketched out ideas for each chapter, even throwing in and highlighting scenes from the old version that can be tweaked.
I’m not usually one for planning every last detail, but another writer buddy, Amalie Berlin swears by it and it makes sense when tackling something like revisions to go with a plan of attack when there’s such a short time frame.
The best piece of advice I can give though, when it comes to revisions, is read the instructions over, let them sink in, then if you have questions, ask. My editor is an absolute gem and doesn’t seem to mind my questions. After all she wants the same as me, for the book to be the best it can.
Right, now I’m off to actually do the revisions. Wish me luck :)
XOXO

Sneak Peak - Isle of Sensuality. Warning, Hot!

Warning, not suitable for readers under 18

With a month to release day, I thought a teaser was appropriate, since I’ve been chatting about my steamy action-packed story all over the place :). In reality, it’s the movie they’re shooting that’s action packed, but Caitlyn and Jake want each other. Did since the moment they met when he arrived in Rio over a week late.
So how did Caitlyn go from bitter because he was making her miss her sister’s show to his bed? Well, here’s a hint…
 “Okay, guys, you know the drill,” Sean said and sunk into a fold-out chair beside the wicker wardrobes.
The cameramen set up at the side and rear of the bed. Jake approached her, his jaw tense and his eyes shuttered. She tried to stand, willed herself to run, tried to move at all, but couldn’t. She was trapped in his gaze and under the spell of want his near-naked presence had caused.
He lowered himself onto the bed next to her, and then leaned close to her ear. “It will be okay. You’ll do great. I promise.” The whisper of his breath made her shiver.
The secret place between her thighs ached and her nipples tightened. She wished, with all her heart, she could just be immune to him. Caitlyn had been counting on the vodka to assist. She never had any luck.
Caitlyn nodded, not trusting her voice. He took her hand, stood, and pulled her up with him. One of his hands settled on her lower back and rubbed small circles, while he threw back the sheets. Even through her robe, she could feel the heat of his skin seeping into her, turning her body into a shell of vibrating hormones.
He laid down on the bed and tugged her hand for her to follow. She kept her attention on his eyes, knowing his body would only make her arousal far worse. A deep, almost feral hunger was barely concealed in the chocolate depths. Her stomach quivered as that same hunger sped through her body, banishing her insecurities. With trembling hands, Caitlyn slid off the robe.
Jake pulled her to his side with a tenderness she wouldn’t have guessed he possessed. Her heart gave a tug in her chest, but the heat raging through her veins, blended with the warmth of the vodka glow, made every inch of her skin sensitive and wiped the thought away.
With the covers propped loosely on his hips, he rose over her and she instinctively opened her thighs. Jake moved between them and propped his weight on forearms bracketing her head, the muscles there bunched with the pressure. He gave her a tense smile.
“Action,” Sean called, and Caitlyn’s breathing sped.
Jake threaded his fingers through her hair and angled her head toward his face. Tension lined the hard planes of his jaw. She linked her arms around his back and felt the muscles bunch beneath her fingers. His breathing grew ragged along with hers.
Jake brushed his mouth against her jaw, her cheek, and then finally her lips. Caitlyn could feel his bare thighs against hers. Fire spiraled out from her core and spread to every part of her body. His spicy smell made her blood boil, and her hands snaked around his neck as she wrapped her legs around his torso.
“Caitlyn,” Jake whispered into her mouth, a broken whisper which she didn’t so much hear as feel. She groaned, tasting the addictive substance his kiss was made of and let instinct take over.
The length of Jake’s arousal rubbed the thin, cotton panties which were now almost soaked through. She moaned into his mouth as one pretend thrust skimmed her sensitive nub of flesh, now swollen and desperate to be touched. She ground her hips against him, again and again, the vodka warmth and fire inside her morphed into a pressure which ached to be released.
What on earth had she been thinking of, shying away from something as amazing as this all her life?
Jake’s thrusts increased in speed and pressure. Her mind went fuzzy around the edges. Everything around her disappeared. All that was left was the sound of blood pounding in her ears. His mouth against hers. The feel of his hard strength pushing her closer to some unknown pleasure.
Caitlyn hovered at some undiscovered edge. Needing more pressure. Needing, something. She couldn’t think. Moans escaped her mouth that sounded almost alien to her. This…this was almost bliss. It was so close she could feel it.
“Cut!”
Jake froze, the tension in his body clear from his rigid frame. Caitlyn trembled with unfulfilled need. For a moment, she couldn’t figure out what had happened. Where she was. Then the world came back into focus, and she remembered.
The frustrated embarrassment made her cheeks flame unbearably. The vodka burn did nothing to hide her internal torture. Just one more second and she’d have known. She’d have known what that unbelievable mounting of pressure would do when it exploded. She’d wanted it more than she’d ever wanted anything. And now, now it was ripped away.
“Let’s shoot that again. Less panting, more moaning,” Sean declared.
Jake sank his head into the pillow next to her and groaned, his body still taut. She could understand his frustration. If he felt even an ounce of what she did, then this would be torture for him too.
If you wanted something to happen, I certainly wouldn’t protest.
Jake’s words rang in her head, and at that moment she wanted to grab his offer with both hands. How could she not want more of this? If he could rouse so much pleasure from a barely-there touch, what would it be like when he did touch her? When his impressive length was hard inside her?
She swallowed. Her core ached for him. Jake wasn’t her Mr. Right, Caitlyn had no doubt about that, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t be her Mr. Right Now. After all, they both wanted each other. Why not make the most of the time they had on the island?
No, he wasn’t her soul mate. She knew that. But he was hot and they had chemistry. What harm could a short fling do? She wasn’t exactly storing her virginity for Mr. Right. The only reason she’d never had sex was because she’d never wanted to sleep with a man. Not Archie. Not any other man she’d met.
Or was it the vodka making her think this way? She knew alcohol could change people. It had turned her father into a monster. Was it turning her into a wanton fool? Or was the attraction she had for Jake some sort of chemical reaction?
Then again, from the second she’d met Jake, he raised her temperature and made her want. Why couldn’t she have him? At that moment in time, Caitlyn couldn’t think of a single reason.
 
So, what do you all think? Steamy enough?
 XOXO

#freebook Holiday Kisses is out now

The Beachwalk Babes have a new free anthology out today. Holiday Kisses is made up of short stories by Pepper Anthony, Patricia Bates, me, Hazel Gower, Tara Mills, Ashlynn Munro, Kaylie Newell, Tamaria Soana, Sidda Lee Tate, Elsie Whyles and Lacey Wolfe.
If you want something to keep you hot during the cold winter nights, go download yourself a copy! You can find it at Beachwalk Press’ website.
Here’s a little about my story, Believe in Me.
Leona Sharp and Ryan Lee have been friends forever, it seems. Although there’s an attraction between them, they've never acted on it. On New Year’s Eve, Leona finally allows herself to give into the temptation, but she vows that it will only be for one night and as soon as the clock strikes midnight they will put it in the past and go on as if it never happened. Ryan, however, has other plans…And the trailer:
XOXO

Six Sunday...Isle of Sensuality

It’s been a while since I’ve done this. Since Isle of Sensuality will be out next month I thought I’d share a little of Caitlyn & Jake’s story. Here’s a little more about it.  
Who knew being with Mr. Wrong could be so right?

Caitlyn Hart is shooting her first movie, and she doesn't want to screw it up. Still, she's on a deadline and when her co-star, Mr. Hot Shot Campbell, holds filming up, he's immediately on her shit list. But she can't ignore his charms for long or the overpowering want she feels for him. Even though she knows he's her Mr. Wrong, she doesn't mind him being her Mr. Right Now. If only her silly heart would stay immune.

Having been burned once, Jake Campbell doesn't have the capacity to love, but that doesn't mean relationships of a purely sexual nature are off limits. After all, a man has needs. His sexy co-star with fire red hair and a passion to match ignites his own desire and he sets out to convince her a fling is the only way to scratch the proverbial itch. Little did he figure that she'd be the one to penetrate the thick scars on his heart and make him feel.
And my six.
“Hungry?” Jake’s eyes glowed with laughter as he looked down at her. Caitlyn quickly snapped her mouth shut.
The motorcycle looked huge and dangerous and there was absolutely no flipping way she was getting on it with him. “No.” Her stomach rumbled.
You can get your hands on Isle of Sensuality on 21stJanuary and it’s already up on Goodreads if you want to add it.
Visit Six Sunday's website for more.
Happy Sunday!
XOXO

Something More Giveaway!

Fancy a chance to win a copy of Ella's new release, Something More? Then enter the Rafflecopter at the end of this post! Good luck to all :)  Something More by Ella Jade
   An affair and a shocking secret threaten to tear apart a rich and powerful family.

Claudia Samson, housekeeper to the privileged Callahan family, finds herself alone and pregnant after a brief fling with Gavin, the youngest Callahan son. When she informed him of the pregnancy he accused her of running a scam and made it clear that she was on her own.
Brody Callahan, Gavin's older half-brother, has devoted his entire life to running the family business. He doesn't realize what he's been missing by throwing himself into his work until he finds Claudia asleep in the family guest bedroom. He has discovered his very own Sleeping Beauty. Intrigued by the young woman, he vows to get to know her better.

Although Claudia is instantly attracted to the charismatic businessman, she knows her secret will destroy any chance they have for a future together, but Brody's awfully hard to resist.

Meanwhile, as Gavin watches Brody and Claudia's relationship develop, he begins to devise a plan to use the secret to his advantage. He wants full partnership in the business—something he was denied by both his brother and their deceased father—and maybe now he can finally obtain it.

Can Brody and Claudia survive the storm, or will the secrets and blackmail destroy both them and their love?

Content Warning: graphic sex and some explicit language

Beachwalk Press Buy Link
 
Excerpt
As Claudia placed the last throw pillow on the bed, she couldn’t help but think how inviting it looked. It was a little after three o’clock, and she still had an hour to work, but she was so tired, and her back was sore. She just needed to sit for a moment. She knew Angela was down at the stables and wasn’t due back for a bit, so she sat on the edge of the bed and closed her eyes.She was only eleven weeks pregnant, but that little baby was sucking every last ounce of energy from her body. The afternoons were the worst. All she wanted to do was cuddle on the couch in her tiny apartment and sleep for an hour or two. She leaned back and sunk deep into the soft mattress. Her bed at home was nowhere near this comfortable. Everything was spotless and pretty in the guest bedroom. The sunlit room smelled like fresh-cut roses. The soft pink tones adorning the walls and curtains lulled her into a deep state of relaxation.The last thing she remembered was the white of the ceiling before she heard a voice pull her from her unintentional slumber. She felt a warm hand on her arm. As soon as she opened her eyes she realized what had happened.She’d fallen asleep, on the job, in a guest bedroom of a home she was hired to clean. As she gazed into his stunning blue eyes she tried to recover from her nap. She’d never noticed how clear his eyes were. Then again, she’d never been this close to Brody Callahan before.“Is everything okay, Ms. Samson?” He pushed a strand of his thick, dark hair from his forehead. He and Gavin had almost the same messy kind of haircut, but Brody’s hair was darker and tamer.Claudia stood from the bed much too quickly. The room swirled around her and then she lost her balance, falling against his hard, muscular chest.“Whoa.” He caught her by the forearm, staring down at her with concern. “Are you okay?”“I’m sorry, Mr. Callahan.”Could my day get any worse?
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 About the Author:Ella Jade has been writing for as long as she can remember. As a child, she often had a notebook and pen with her, and now as an adult, the laptop is never far. The plots and dialogue have always played out in her head, but she never knew what to do with them. That all changed when she discovered the eBook industry. She started penning novels at a rapid pace and now she can't be stopped.Ella resides in New Jersey with her husband and two young boys. When she's not chasing after her kids, she's busy writing, attending PTO meetings, kickboxing, and scrapbooking. She hopes you'll get lost in her words.Site      Facebook Author Page      Twitter Giveaway: a Rafflecopter giveaway

Best. Day. Ever.

This afternoon I received an email from my editor with the contract for Never Say Never, Book 2 in the Price of Fame Series! I was so excited I printed it off, scanned it in and whipped it back in record time. Seriously. Fifteen minutes had yet to pass from receiving the email and it was in an envelope, addressed and ready to be posted. Yup, I’m a big kid. So, what’s it about? Book 1 in the series, The Monster of Fame (which, by the way, is now available at Coffee Time Romance and there’s 20% off!), is set on the reality singing competition Do You Have What it Takes? and the hero in Never Say Never is introduced as one of the judges. Never Say Never is Sander Chase’s story. He’s the blond muscly hunk who Anna’s friend Jess fancies, though he doesn’t have time to date. But it comes to a point when he needs a fake date and Chloe Butler is perfect for the job. She doesn’t swoon over him, and she’s pretty enough that he doesn’t need to feign attraction. There’s no blurb yet, but when I whip something up I’ll share. Promise. In the meantime, I used Never Say Never on The Next Big Thing blog hop. You can see the post here. Another reason for it being the best day ever is that my internet’s up and running. After nearly two weeks of depravity, I can finally get back online. Is it sick that I felt like I’d lost a limb without the world wide web? :D XOXO

Believe in Me, Part 5 #freeread #smokinhot

Here’s the final instalment of my story for the Holiday Kisses anthology. Warning. Adult content and smokin’ sex.  

BlurbLeona Sharp and Ryan Lee have been friends forever, it seems. Although there’s an attraction between them, they've never acted on it. On New Year’s Eve, Leona finally allows herself to give into the temptation, but she vows that it will only be for one night and as soon as the clock strikes midnight they will put it in the past and go on as if it never happened. Ryan, however, has other plans…
* * * *“I want this.” And because she wasn’t certain he did, she had to ask, “Don’t you?”He studied her. Leo’s heart lodged in her throat. His expression softened, and something bright and new shined from his eyes. He trailed a finger down her jaw and circled her lips. “I’ve always wanted this.”Her breath caught. Before she could recover, his lips were on hers. The contact sent a jolt of lust through her and muddied all rational thought. She wanted him naked, wanted to feast her eyes on his chest. Wanted to lick, nibble, and bite it.Tugging at the corners, she ripped the popper buttons of his shirt apart, then her hands were on his sculpted abs. Rye broke the kiss and lay back against the sofa, studying her from hooded eyes. She took the chance to devour his body with her gaze. Masterpiece. The fire inside her flared. She needed more. Now. If there was a round two, she’d get to the tasting.With impatient fingers, she undid his slacks and freed him from his trousers. His erection stood proud. She grabbed it.“Leo, fuck.” Rye’s breath hissed out between his teeth as she slid her hand up and down his velvet skin.Her panties soaked through and her core throbbed. She wanted him inside her, but the way his hands gripped her thighs gave her a sense of power. He was at her mercy and lost in what she was doing to him. The feeling emboldened her.Rising on her knees, she positioned herself over his erection. Using her free hand, she pushed her thong to the side.“Wait.” Rye grabbed her hips and held her firm. “Leo, you need—”“I need you inside me, Rye. I’ve needed this for so long.”With a hand in her hair, he pulled her head down and kissed her. The way his lips brushed against hers was soft, gentle, and almost loving. Leo felt a tear escape and roll down her cheek. She didn’t want to feel this way with him. After tonight, it would be hard enough to pretend they were still friends. But he’d said he wanted to give them a chance, maybe—Rye stopped kissing her. “Condom.”He dug his hand into his slacks and came up with a foil package. Too impatient to wait, Leo grabbed it, ripped it open, and sheathed him in record time. She was rewarded with a look that questioned her expert skills in the condom-fitting department.Grinning, she said, “I’m good with my hands.” Pointing to her chest, she went on, “Beauty therapist.”Rye returned the grin, relief clear in his crystal eyes. Grabbing her hips, he positioned her over his erection, then looked at her with a frown. “You sure, Leo?”In answer, she pushed herself down onto him. Rye groaned. His lids fell to half-mast, but he never took his gaze off hers. The feel of him inside her was exquisite, and she froze for a second, savoring the fullness and clenching her muscles around him. His breathing sped.Unable to hold off any longer, Leo ground her hips against him. He gripped her bottom and thrust up. The sensations zapping through her body were more intense than any she’d ever felt. She was as much at his mercy as he’d been at hers earlier, and there wasn’t a thing she’d change.His foggy blue eyes held hers, but she couldn’t have looked away if she wanted to. Every feeling she ever had for him intensified and lit her body up like a bonfire. She pumped her hips onto him harder as she felt the tell-tale heat building in her pelvis.Her orgasm kept building and her heart filled with emotion. She hadn’t expected this, hadn’t wanted to fall in love with him. But love burst through her body along with her flaming orgasm, and she bit her bottom lip hard to keep from screaming how she felt.* * * *Leo convulsed around him. He’d held on by the skin of his teeth, but his balls burned and his stomach cramped from holding back. He let go and his whole body stiffened as he shot everything he had inside her. She collapsed onto his chest, her breathing heavy and her forehead damp. Rye ran his hand through her hair, wondering how he got so lucky to meet someone as perfect as her.He’d loved Leo for so long, and even though he told himself it was a sisterly love, he’d known exactly how wrong he’d been last week. Spending Christmas without her wasn’t something he wanted to do again. It felt like he’d left a part of himself back in London—the best part—and now that they were together, he wasn’t ever going to let go.“That was…” Leo sat up suddenly. Her eyes widened. “This can’t happen again.”She was off him and had straightened her dress before her words registered. He stood and buttoned his trousers. “What do you mean?”She backed away from him. “I’m not a number, not another one of your conquests. I won’t ever be.”She trembled and tears glittered in her jeweled eyes. Shit.“Leo, you’re everything to me. Those other women meant nothing.”She bit her lip.He wanted to pull her into his arms. The glow of their lovemaking muddied his mind, but he tried to think around it. “I didn’t bring you here to make love to you.”“Then why?” There it was again. Vulnerability and hope.It gave him the courage to give her the present. “Because I love you.”Tears spilled over and fell down her cheeks.“I’ve loved you for so long, Leo. It just took being away from you last week to see it.” He pulled a box out of his trouser pocket and dropped down on one knee. “Tell me it’s not just me. Tell me you love me too.”He held out the box. The countdown to the New Year sounded from the other room. Leo turned to the door as if she heard it too, tears still streaming down her face.“I love you too,” she whispered.“Marry me.” The clock struck twelve and screams and cheers erupted from the club. His heart was in his throat.“How do I know…” She shook her head. Swallowed. “How do I know you won’t leave?”“Believe in me, Leo. Believe in our love.”She looked down at the box. He opened the lid. Anticipation and dread played havoc with his insides. His hands shook while she stared at the ring.* * * *Leo didn’t think she’d ever felt this happy. Rye, who she’d probably always been in love with, loved her back. He wanted to spend the rest of his life with her and here she was gaping at the ring like an idiot.“Yes.” There wasn’t any other answer. There never could be.He scooped her up and kissed her lovingly. Leo kissed him back, showing him she felt the same.Rye broke away first, gasping for breath. “Happy New Year, Mrs. Lee.”Leo mock-punched his shoulder. “We’re not married yet.”“Soon,” he promised. The word made her giddy with excitement. “Now I’m taking you home to make love to you properly.”Leo couldn’t wait, for any of it. She grinned from ear to ear as he carried her out of the Med.* * * * 
Make sure you pop over to Kaylie Newell’s Blog tomorrow for the final installment of her story, Winter Break. You can find Kaylie’s Blog here.And Lacey Wolfe's also posting part of her story, The Gift Beneath The Tree, tomorrow. You can find her Blog here. Well, that’s it from me folks. Be sure to check out the other babes’ stories. If you missed any don’t worry, the full Anthology, Holiday Kisses, will be available from Beachwalk Press and Amazon as a free download on 3rd December. Be sure and grab yourself a copy. xoxo

Spotlight & Review - A Heart's Endeavor

I'm thrilled to have another fellow Beachwalk Babe on my blog today with her debut release, A Heart's Endeavor. Read on to find out more, read an excerpt watch the trailer and see my review! 

A Heart's Endeavor by Mary Wehr

There are times when it's best to allow your heart to overrule your head.
Being diagnosed with depression not only messed up Melanie Manning's life, but her marriage as well. Her husband made it very clear that he considered her "damaged goods" and he didn't have time to coddle a mentally ill wife. After his sudden death, Melanie knew she was destined to be alone. Loneliness sounded a hell of a lot better than exposing her illness to another man. Her self-esteem couldn't survive another blow.
When state trooper Jack Horan meets Melanie, the attraction is immediate. Her deep blue eyes make him weak in the knees, but those eyes also hold a hint of sadness. Jack is determined to wipe away her pain, but how can he do that when Melanie refuses to let him get close to her?
Can Melanie learn to face her fears and trust her heart in the hands of another man?

Content Warning: some strong language, spanking, and sex play with a piece of fruit wielded by a hot guy in uniform.

Excerpt:
Melanie poked her head under the table piled high with Kaiser rolls, paper plates, and plastic utensils. She swept the candy into a neat pile. There. That should be the last of them. She rested on her heels and arched her back. Geez, I'm getting too old for this.

A low hiss sounded from above and she twisted at the waist. The first thing she saw was a pair of black shoes spit-polished to a shine. Dark, charcoal gray slacks covered a pair of long legs. Her gaze continued upward and a gun came into view. Great, a state trooper. It would be her luck to meet one in this undignified position. If the poor guy had been standing there the entire time the upper half of her body was underneath the table then he sure as hell didn't get a view of her best side. Not that she had one.

Melanie recognized a flashlight and radio tucked in the utility belt hugging his lean waist. Other unfamiliar items were strapped to it too. The belt looked heavy enough to weigh a pound or more. How in the world did his pants stay in place if he had to hit the ground at a run? Her cheeks warmed. Of all the things that could've popped into her head, why did she always think of the most inane?

She purposely avoided looking at the impressive bulge peeking between his fingers. Oh, and what a bulge it was. Stop it, Mel. You're here to work and get your mind off your problems.

She tilted her head. Her heart skipped a beat. The man was gorgeous. Square jaw, firm lips, hawk-like nose, and forest green eyes framed by ridiculously long lashes mixed well with his short, black hair. A touch of gray at his temples sexed him up all the more. Powerful shoulders stretched the seams of a meticulously pressed light gray uniform shirt. The name tag pinned to the right of his broad chest read Horan. Her eyes rested on his face. Stone face. The noise she heard hadn't come from this guy.

Embarrassed to be caught in such an awkward position, and by a state trooper no less, Melanie scrambled to her feet. She hurried to the sink and washed her hands. She did her best to act the professional employee, but the pulse hammering at the base of her throat threatened to cut off her air supply. Her lips trembled and the palms of her hands grew moist with sweat.

"W-what can I get you, officer?" Way to go, now you're stuttering.

A dark brow arched, but he remained silent. She bit her bottom lip in consternation. Okay, not a talker. But how was she supposed to know what he wanted?

After a second or two had passed he said, "I'd like something hot."

Melanie blinked and her breath hitched. She wouldn't have minded being on the menu. He means food, you dolt. No way can you be considered hot. She tossed a dish towel over her shoulder and gestured toward the two crockpots on the table behind her. "Um, we have homemade chili and pulled pork barbecue, plus hoagies made to order." Her voice rose to a nervous pitch. Her first impulse was to run, but she stood there and waited for him to decide.

She shuffled her feet. Men in uniform always made her pulse leap. A leaping pulse she could deal with, but the throbbing between her legs threw her for a loop. As far as she was concerned that pulse just didn't…pulse anymore.


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My Review!
Mary has a very intriguing writing style that sucked me in from the first sentence on the page—as did Jack, the sexy state trooper who this story kicks off with. He’s everyone’s ideal man; a little bit alpha, a whole lot of sweet, drop dead gorgeous and creative between the sheets!
I really loved Melanie. She’s a real woman who has curves, but doesn’t dwell on that too much. Struggling to cope with depression and the emotional scars her deceased hubby left on her, the story kicks off with her getting her life back together and I for one admired her for this.
The romance—hot sex notwithstanding—is very sweet and Jack is just lovely when he finds out about her illness and more than willing to help her through. In my opinion, he’s the perfect hero. He wants to save Melanie, help her heal and get all kinky with her at the same time. Oh, and a trooper, or did I say that already! ;)
I really loved A Heart’s Endeavor and can’t wait for more from Mary Wehr!


About the Author:

Mary Wehr has always been an avid reader of romance novels and dreamed of someday writing one of her own. After years of dreaming about it, she finally did it.

She lives in northeastern Pennsylvania with her husband, pet dove, and guinea pig. She has one grown daughter.

Mary has a soft spot for animals and works part time at a doggie bakery, making treats for our four-legged friends. She’s a nature lover and when the weather is warm she can most often be found outdoors.

She'd love to hear from you. You can e-mail her at mkwehr@verizon.net