Niecey Roy's Blog, page 16
April 18, 2013
Flavor of Love ~~ Rain Is A Love Song by author Vonnie Davis
I have author Vonnie Davis on Flavor of Love today, and I am so excited for you all to meet her! She’s just released Rain Is A Love Song and not only is she sharing an excerpt with us today, but she’s also brought along a recipe!!! And you all know I’m a foodie, so I’m thrilled I have another recipe to try out 
Vonnie says…
I’m thrilled to be here on Flavor Friday because I have a freebie for all of you. Book two of my romantic suspense series is available today and tomorrow as a FREE download on Amazon. And who doesn’t like free?
RAIN IS A LOVE SONG is set in Paris, Budapest and Asheville, NC. Every book in this series starts in Paris, my favorite city in the world. Calvin and I are going back in September for two weeks and I cannot wait. One of my favorite things about the City of Light is the bakeries. The pastries in the windows are like works of art and I love…LOVE…every French calorie.
Paris is a city made for walking. Part of that reason is the taxi drivers. We once took a taxi ride where the driver got into a snit over a traffic snarl and sped backwards…backwards, mind you…on the sidewalk. By the time we reached our destination, I almost got down on my arthritic knees and kissed the ground.
One of the prettiest places to walk is along the Champs Elysées. I’ll never forget my first glimpse of the wide tree-lined street. We were climbing the steps from the Metro and when I looked up, the Arc de Triomphe sat perched on her throne at the end of the street—majestic, tall, breathtaking. The Champs is full of sidewalk cafés and high-end stores. Little did I know I would one day use this area in one of my books.
Rain Is A Love Song is FREE on Amazon NOW
Blurb:
What should be a wonderful trip to Paris turns menacing when Gwen Morningstar’s daughter is kidnapped by The Red Hand terrorist group. Fortunately, Jean-Luc LeFevre of France’s Counterterrorism Unit is there to rescue her little girl. Gwen is grateful, but her need to apprehend the abductors must override any desire she feels for the handsome agent with his own brand of justice…and danger.
Jean-Luc is not pleased when Gwen, a crime scene photographer with just enough training to get them killed, is assigned to work with him. Not only does she take too many risks, she drives him to distraction.
As Gwen and Jean-Luc track the terrorists, their feelings for each other grow as fast as the danger. Jean-Luc is determined to protect Gwen and her daughter, but the sinister grasp of The Red Hand is strong and far-reaching. It will take more than love to keep them all safe.
La Fouquet’s
I’m sharing an excerpt that takes place at a famous restaurant in Paris.
Excerpt:
About an hour later, they sat at an outdoor table at Le Fouquets, on the corner of the Champs Elysées and Avenue George V. The day, for all its horrors, was perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors. Gwen admired the many large palms and planters of ivy and miniature roses. A black wrought iron fence blocked off the seating area from the wide sidewalk. Gentle breezes rustled the palms. Espresso machines hissed. The fragrance of roses perfumed the air. Combined, they were a relaxing tonic to her frayed nerves.
“Will you allow me to order for you?” Jean-Luc glanced up from his menu.
“Why not?” She snapped her menu closed. “I’m warning you, though. I’m starving.”
The waiter appeared, and Jean-Luc ordered salads of smoked salmon over organic mixed greens, an entrée of baked chicken with a sauce of fresh lemon, imported capers and a side of frites, or french fries. He glanced at the wine menu and ordered what he assured her would be a very nice white wine.
“Eating here is always a treat. This place has been a Parisian icon since it opened in the eighteen hundreds. Are you a lover of history?” Jean-Luc shifted in his chair to face out onto the busy street.
“Somewhat. I enjoy American history. The Revolution and the Civil War. You?”
“I devour books on the subject.” He waved a hand in the direction of the street. “Take the Champs Elysées, for example. The name is the French translation of Elysian Fields which, in Greek mythology refers to the place of the blessed.” He sipped his wine. “We French are quite blessed to live in such a beautiful city, are we not?”
“My sister tells me it’s a gorgeous city. You boast its charm and beauty.” She glanced around at the stunning architecture, chestnut trees and abundance of flowers. “All I seem to see is danger.”
“Your experience is not the norm, I assure you. Why not allow me to show you more of the charms of the city? There are more delights than what I’ve shown you. Museums. Ancient Roman Baths. Quiet, intimate haunts. I could introduce you to some jazz clubs while Rhiannon is away for a few days.”
She twirled the stem of her wineglass between her thumb and index finger. “We’ll see. I’m not sure how long she will be gone. Tell me more about this excessively wide street.” It seemed as if everything in Paris was excessive.
Jean-Luc smiled. “At the turn of the twentieth century, this was the place to be. Any person who was anyone of importance walked these streets.” He sipped his wine and leaned toward her. “Not just walked, but promenaded like peacocks.”
She laughed, enjoying the sudden animation in his features as he shared history with her. “Really?”
“Oh, yes. One always dressed in their finery to promenade up and down this sidewalk. Furs, jewels…” His finger touched the new silver bangle he’d just bought her. “Women dripped with diamonds and pearls. Then the Nazis came.” A look of disgust clouded his expression. “One of the darkest days in French history was when German soldiers goose-stepped in formation up this very street toward the Arc de Triomphe. Men cried. Women prayed for deliverance.”
Recipe for backed chicken with lemon and caper sauce.
4 (6-ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons capers, drained
3 tablespoons minced flat-leaf parsley
Preparation
1. Place chicken between 2 sheets of plastic wrap; pound to an even thickness using a meat mallet or small heavy skillet. This also helps reduce cooking time. Sprinkle chicken evenly with salt and pepper. Place flour in a shallow dish; dredge chicken in flour.
2. Melt butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken to pan; cook 3 minutes. Turn chicken over. Add broth, juice, and capers; reduce heat to medium, and simmer 3 minutes, basting chicken occasionally with sauce. Sprinkle with parsley; cook 3 minutes. Remove chicken from pan; keep warm.
3. Bring sauce to a boil; cook 2 minutes or until thick. Serve over chicken.
Rain Is A Love Song is FREE on Amazon right now. Click HERE to get your copy!
Visit me at www.vonniedavis.com
Thanks so much for visiting today, Vonnie! And thanks to anyone who stopped by
Have a Sexy Smooches kind of day!
Sincerely,
Niecey Roy
Fender Bender Blues, a romantic comedy
Print & e-Book available at Amazon
Print available at The Wild Rose Press
Available everywhere May 3, 2013
nieceyroy@gmail.com
http://www.nieceyroy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/NieceyRoyRomanceAuthor
https://twitter.com/#!/NieceyRoy
April 16, 2013
We’re not in high school any more–thank heaven! ~~ author Alana Lorens
Hi everyone! Niecey here I have another guest today, author Alana Lorens. She’s such a sweetie; first she lets me get all nosey and ask a bunch of questions, and now she let me talk her into a guest post! Thank you, Alana!
We’re not in high
school any more—thank heaven!
by Alana Lorens
It’s that time of the high school year when it’s winding
down, and people wax nostalgic about “the good old days,” awards banquets,
prom, graduation, all those milestones in the passage into adulthood. Summer
comes along, home to so many high school reunions. Have you attended any of
yours?
High school was a sort of hell for so many of us, unless we
were the popular ones, and that was years ago. I imagine the current atmosphere
with the immediacy of social media added to display everyones peccadilloes (and
sometimes a lot more!) to the world make it even harder.
But high school ends—huge sigh of relief—and life goes on.
What you do with it afterward, that’s what really counts in the scheme of
things.
Seems to me that the reunion season can be pretty
frightening for the former top-of-the-world types, the prom queens, football
quarterbacks and so on, especially as the years pass. While they may have ruled
the school, as they say, they may not have continued on that golden path into
adult life. Without that strict social strata high school inevitably generates,
perhaps they slip from those upper tiers down into “normal” life. Or a
financial setback for the family can make the whole dynasty take a hit.
Those who travel around the middle layer, not particularly
remarkable but yet not labeled as one of the “geeks and freaks,” they can blend in comfortably and enjoy their
anonymity.
Those who weren’t so popular, though, the ones who people
ignored for the most part, they can sometimes surprise the class with
unexpected accomplishments. Maybe high school bored them and held them back—not
till they hit the real world did they find something that really inspired them,
or they learned in ways that didn’t
teach to the state assessment test. For me, these are often the most
interesting returnees at reunions.
What do you think? What was the most surprising revelation
of a reunion you attended?
Up-and-coming mommyblogger and single mom Marisol Herrera
Slade returns to her old hometown in western Pennsylvania for her 20th high
school reunion, reluctant and yet compelled to see her high school sweetheart,
Russell Asher, who dumped her for the homecoming queen.
Russell’s marriage to the golden girl, however, ended in a
nasty divorce, and he has been systematically excluded from his sons’ lives. In
his Internet wanderings, he’s found feminist blogger Jerrika Jones, who
glorifies single motherhood, essentially putting a stamp of approval on what’s happened
to him. He’s vowed to take this woman down if they ever should meet.
What he doesn’t know, when he thinks to rekindle what he had
with Marisol, is that Marisol and Jerrika are one and the same. When he
discovers the truth, will his drive for revenge derail any chance they have to
reunite? Or will they find they have more in common than they ever expected?
EXCERPT:
“Russell Asher? Holy smokes, you
haven’t hardly changed at all!” The man looked Russell up and down, then
greeted Russell’s companions, James Thompson and Stuart Fry, adding, “Don’t you
recognize me?”
Russell had to confess he didn’t. He
debated suggesting the man was the high school janitor, but held his tongue.
“It’s me, Marty Drogan! From the
basketball team. Man, are you blind?”
Astounded that one of his teammates could look like a sixty-year old guy, Russell set down his beer and
offered his hand. “It’s been a long time, man. How you doing?” he asked, though he wasn’t really sure he wanted to know.
“Can’t complain, can’t complain.” Drogan reached into his worn suit pocket and slapped a business card into Russell’s
outstretched hand. “Been in sales fifteen years. Working my way up to V.P. any
day now.” A big cheesy grin. “Me and Carrie have a big house out on Lake Drive.”
“’Not my Cherry’ Carrie? How’s she
doing?”
One of the guys Russell was playing with shook his head violently behind Drogan’s shoulder and made a face.
“Carrie’s the sweetest little thing ever, that good little woman who makes my day,” Drogan said. “She just sent me
to pick up some pizza. We’ll see you at the reunion, right?”
“Ah…sure. Sure you will.”
Drogan bustled off, all puffed up
with pride. Russell turned to James, who’d made the face. “What was that
about?”
“Man, that Carrie put on about a ton
with those kids of hers. No one in that house is starving, if you get my
drift.”
“Too bad. She was pretty cute back
in the day.”
“Coulda hit that.”
“As if.”
“Maybe I could.”
Russell let his thoughts
wander along memory lane to the old days, when he, Marty, James and the others
scored baskets on the gym floor, then scored more private points after the game
with the cheerleaders. James had dated Cherise Lang, but it hadn’t lasted long.
Marty and Carrie had hooked up early; Tiffy had come around a little later.
Maybe he should have taken that as a
hint. An omen. Leave the girl alone and find someone less ostentatious and more
solid… Other girls were interested in him. He’d been pretty steady with
Marisol Herrera for the summer after junior year, till the basketball season
had started in the fall of senior year. He’d just blown her off for a shot at
the stars.
and .
April 11, 2013
Blood on the Flavor of Love…eeekkk!!!
This is definitely going to be a fun post… 
My guest today is R.E. Mullins, author of It’s A Wonderful Undead Life (What happens when you pray for an angel and get a vampire instead???). She’s agreed to come and shock us with a guest post on the Flavor of Love, the blog that mixes yummies with romance.
~~R.E. Mullins ~~
Blood sustains us. Yes, blood is the flavor of love today.
Grossed out yet? No? Then I’ll continue.
Most cultures incorporate blood into the diet. We’ve all heard of blood pudding (or sausage) which is very popular in the UK. But have you heard about blood pancakes? You might encounter them while traveling through the Baltic or Scandinavian countries. Other Eastern European countries like to add blood as a thickener to their soups and stews. In Hungary you might get fried blood and onions for breakfast.
Shall I go on?
In China they allow the blood to congeal before cutting it into pieces and cooking making it into a sort of blood tofu.
Cow, pig, bird, sheep, or yak blood recipes abound all over the world. You would have to be completely vegan and very strict about it not to have eaten blood at one time or another.
People have drank and eaten blood since the beginning of time. Oh, yum.
Now doesn’t that make the idea of a race existing totally on a blood diet more plausible? Is it so difficult to imagine vampires living among us and feeding off our blood? Don’t believe? Are you sure?
While you think about it you might try this recipe for blood pudding. It is from a Wrightfood Recipe but I have made a few changes.
You choose where to get the blood. The butcher’s shop or the butcher himself, it’s up to you. Oh, a little hint – You’ll want to put the blood through a blender to help remove any clots.
Bon Appétit – R.E. Mullins
Blood Sausage
2 ½ cups pigs blood – fresh or frozen (defrost frozen overnight in refrigerator)
5 fl oz heavy cream
1 ¼ cups finely diced onion (less if you aren’t a big onion fan)
10 oz pork back – finely chopped
1/2 cup cooked rice
3/4 cup of raisins
1 tbs salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 wine glass of medium-dry sherry or wine vinegar
1 tablespoon bittersweet smoked Spanish paprika
Hogs casings – 6ft of them – soaked overnight in cold water
Large plastic soda bottle, empty, clean, with the base cut off.
Place diced onions and 1/2 cup of olive oil in a large pan. And a pinch of salt and cook gently over a low flame for 3 hours – stirring every 30 minutes. The onions should be deeply caramelized. This can be done a few days ahead of time if required – store the onions in their oil in the fridge.
Soak raisins in hot water for 20 minutes to soften. Drain water.
Drain the cooked onions,
Add rest of ingredients to bowl of blood (except casings). Mix very well.
Take soaked casings and rinse thoroughly. Tie one end of casing tightly shut with string, leaving long end. Cut the casing in to a 14″ length. Stretch the open end over the neck of the plastic bottle. Tie this in place with more string.
While constantly mixing the blood mixture (making sure all the good stuff doesn’t sink to the bottom) ladle the mix in to the plastic bottle. Use a chopstick or long spoon handle to gently push mixture through neck of the bottle and in to the casing.
Cut the sausage casing off the bottle, and tie off the other end of the casing with the tail of string left from the other end – you are essentially forming a loop.
Bring a large pot of water to low boil. Gently lower the blood sausage in to the hot water. Poach for about 30 minutes. If you see any air bubbles under the casing, you can prick with toothpick to remove air. It is also a good idea to prick the casing in a few spots after 10 minutes of cooking – just to help let some of the pressure out.
After 30 minutes, prick the sausage again. If the blood that comes out is brown and not red then the sausage is cooked.
Well, that was…romantic!!! Hee-hee!!! Now, I MUST read a blurb for It’s A Wonderful Undead Life!
It’s been a rough couple of years for Cailey Kantor. Now she’s not only facing her first Christmas season alone she’s also received some bad financial news. In desperation, she prays for an angel to come fix her problems. Instead, a sadistic, sociopathic vampire named Vincent who is working for the evil Toltecs confronts her. Trying to start a war between the two rivaling factions of vampires, he bites Cailey then forces her to drink blood stolen from the Nosferatu Gabriel Blautsauger.
Now dying she must protect Gabe and his family by allowing him to finish her transformation. Just when she is adjusting to life as a vampire, the Toltecs return and again she becomes the bait to destroy the Blautsauger family.
Trying to protect those she loves, Cailey is faces with lies, abduction and betrayal yet somewhere along the lines she manages to fall in love.
Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble ~ Bookstrand ~ The Wild Rose Press
contact/find R.E. Mullins:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/REMullinsauthor
Twitter: @REMullins
Pinterest: pinterest.com/robinelainem/pins/
Thanks to everyone for stopping by today for the Flavor of Love
April 10, 2013
Daughters of the Sea ~~ by author Kristen Day
Book Info: Forsaken
Daughters of the Sea Series-Book #1
By Kristen Day
Blurb: Once you’ve been touched by darkness, it never leaves you…
Abandoned by her parents as an infant; seventeen year old Hannah spent her childhood wading through countless foster families until being adopted by the Whitmans three years ago.
Unfortunately, Atlanta’s high society wasn’t quite ready for Hannah…or the strange events that plague her.
Chilling visions of murder, unexplained hallucinations, and dark, mysterious guy who haunts her nightmares all culminate to set in motion a journey of self-discovery that will challenge everything she’s ever believed; not to mention her sanity.
Sent to live at The House of Lorelei on Bald Head Island, NC for ‘kids like her’, Hannah quickly realizes things are not what they seem. Her fellow ‘disturbed’ teens are actually the descendants of mythical Sea Gods and Goddesses. And so is she.
But when Finn, the ghost from her dreams, appears in the flesh; her nightmares become reality and her dark visions begin coming true. Inexplicably drawn to him, she can’t deny the dangerous hold he has on her heart. The deadly secrets he harbors will ultimately test her courage and push the boundaries of her love.
She must decide if she is ready to embrace the ancient legend she is prophesied to be a part of. The fate of all the descendants will forever depend upon it.
Goodreads- http :// www . goodreads . com / book / show /15764736- forsaken
Book Info: Awaken
Daughters of the Sea Series Book #2
By Kristen Day
Blurb: The sacrifices we make have the power to shift the very fabric of who we are, and ultimately who we are meant to be…
After learning of her true destiny as the intended Leader of the Tydes, Anastasia Whitman must now embark on a perilous quest to the Underworld before the age of eighteen in order to plant the seed of immortality and complete her essence to become a true Sea Goddess. But before she can make her legendary journey, an unexpected new student transfers to Lorelei; initiating a sequence of events that will unravel Stasia’s new life, and test the boundaries of her relationship with the mysterious, dark, and sexy Finn Morrison. The line between the Underworld and the Living begins to blur as gruesome ghosts, morbid reveries, and pure evil haunt her waking hours as well as her sanity. Once the details of Finn’s own startling destiny are revealed, the dangerous secrets he’s been hiding will threaten the very love Stasia believed to be indestructible. As time begins to run out, she will be forced to choose between the one she loves and the destiny she cannot escape.
Goodreads-http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15...
Book Info: Chosen
Daughters of the Sea Series Book #3
By Kristen Day
Publication Date: January 29, 2013
Blurb: The essence of who we are lies not in what we have, but in what we are willing to give up. Because in the end, Time and Tide wait for no one.
After sacrificing all that she had, the evil princess of the Underworld is still successful in her bid to tear Finn from Stasia’s life. In the midst of her search to reclaim him, Stasia is summoned to the island nation of Cyprus to take part in an age-old ritual; unveiling the missing pieces of her ancestry and re-igniting an ancient war. As she struggles to both save Finn’s soul and free Carmen’s mind, Stasia’s bravery and determination will be pushed to its breaking point. A dark storm is forming on the horizon, and the forces who are vying to destroy her may be much closer than she thinks. Destiny weaves a sticky web of evil, betrayal, and revenge that can only be undone by the purity of love and the soul’s unyielding will to survive. In the last installment of the Daughters of the Sea trilogy, the past will collide with the present as Stasia’s future hangs in the balance. The prophecy that paved the way for her new life may indeed be the very thing that strips her of the ones she loves the most.
Goodreads-http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15...
About The Author: I am a southern belle at heart with a crazy streak that desperately tries to escape at every opportunity. I love all things nostalgic, rustic, and quirky. I’ve been told I see the world through rose-colored glasses, but I prefer to think of them as kaleidoscope glasses – swirling and morphing reality into something I can digest (who hasn’t pretended those pasty lima beans were really kiwi strawberry jelly beans?).
I am the author of the DAUGHTERS OF THE SEA trilogy, which includes FORSAKEN, AWAKEN, and CHOSEN (Winter 2012). I love all books, but really enjoy writing young adult, paranormal romances. I’ve loved to write for as long as I can remember. My first published work was my poem RED in second grade (you guessed it – it was a poem about the color red – life altering, I know) that won me 5 gold stars and a spot in my elementary school’s poetry book. That’s when my addiction to the written word officially began. I was the only kid in fifth grade that actually enjoyed diagramming sentences. Go ahead and laugh – it’s okay.
When I’m not writing I’m making jewelry, painting, drinking sweet tea, watching the discovery channel, or going on random adventures in the mountains of North Carolina with my amazing husband. I graduated from Appalachian State University and dream of becoming a full time novelist.
Author Links:
EXCERPT ALERT!!!
~~Forsaken~~
I jumped as Finn seemingly materialized next to me. I couldn’t tell if he was talking about the ocean or my desire to be close to him. I lost all train of thought as he fixed his blue eyes on me.
“What are you doing here?” I said, a little too spastic.
“Baking cookies,” he smirked at me.
“You shouldn’t tease me like that, it’s dangerous. I take baked goods very seriously.” A slow smile formed on his lips.
“Dangerous happens to be my specialty,” he said in a low voice, taking a step closer to me. My entire body warmed. He was like my own personal bonfire. “Being afraid reminds us how alive we are. What makes you afraid, Stasia?” I felt my legs get wobbly.
“Nothing scares me,” I said with as much confidence as I could muster. He definitely terrified me, but only because I didn’t trust my body to function correctly around him.
“Nothing at all?” His gaze intensified.
“Nothing at all.” I straightened and held my chin slightly higher to prove it.
“You’re not a good liar.” He leaned in closer and I could feel his breath on my cheeks.
“What makes you afraid?” I whispered. I was having trouble breathing. His answer was another slow smile. If I moved forward even an inch, his mouth would be on mine. Trying not to hyperventilate, I noticed when his eyes glanced down at my lips. His smile disappeared abruptly and he took a step back. As he turned his attention to the water, I tried to figure out what had just happened. My entire body, humming with electricity, was instantly cooled by the distance he’d put between us.
“Come with me.” He took my hand in his, leading me down to the water. It fit perfectly in mine and warmth spread up my arm and into my chest. We stopped once the waves hit our ankles. “Don’t move your feet.” He grinned down at me as I rolled up my jeans. He raked his fingers through his dark hair and the skull and crossbones trace on his forearm shimmered at me. In the pale light of the moon, it was dangerously alluring.
“I used to do this all the time when I was younger,” he explained with obvious nostalgia. My feet disappeared farther into the wet sand, locking me in place, while the water rushed onto the shore and then back out again.
“What happens if we need to go somewhere?” I asked. I could be buried up to my knees in no time at this rate.
“Who says we’re going anywhere?” He held my eyes and put a hand on my shoulder. Before I could come to grips with the tingling sensation his touch created on my skin, he lightly pushed backward. Too late, it dawned on me. Once set in motion, however, I had no way of preventing it. My knees bent and I fell right on my butt onto the wet sand. The water crashed over my knees, soaking my jeans. I tried to stand back up and failed miserably. I glared up at my assailant.
“What are you doing way down there?” He looked down at me with mock surprise. I scooted forward and pushed behind his knees with my hand as hard as I could. He came crashing down beside me. “What was that for?” he asked innocently.
“I told you I can be dangerous. Bad things happen to people who try to push me around.” If he only knew how true that was. I shook the thought and smiled at him. A piece of leather peeking out of the sand caught my attention. Wrapped around his ankle, it held four small black beads shining in the moonlight. I had a good guess as to which type of stones they were.
“If that’s all you’ve got, I’m not too worried,” he taunted me. I dipped my hand in the wet sand, grabbing a handful. I slowly raised it above his head threatening to release it. Before I even noticed, he caught my wrist and pulled it back down. Holding my eyes, he delicately threaded his fingers through mine, while the wet sand squished out. The gesture was somehow very intimate and a shiver ran down my spine. The wet sand ran down my arm but I didn’t even notice. We stayed like that, hand in hand, facing the ocean for what seemed like hours.
I had a million more questions waiting in the wings, but decided this wasn’t the time to open up that can of worms. So, I settled for the least complicated one.
“Why weren’t you in class today?”
“There was somewhere I had to be,” he answered simply.
“You missed a very important lesson. It was life altering.” I teased him.
“The only thing I really missed was sitting next to one very extraordinary girl.” I didn’t think I was breathing anymore.
“She sounds wonderful.” I tried some humor to shake off my nervousness.
“You have no idea.”
Someone laughed in the distance and I pulled my eyes away from his. I realized my roommates were probably getting worried about me.
“I should be getting back to the bonfire. They’re going to think I’ve been kidnapped.” He pulled me toward him in one quick motion.
“Kidnapped insinuates some sort of struggle.” He said in a low voice with a sexy grin. “You’d enjoy being captured by me.” My heart jumped in my throat, but I tried to remain cool.
“I’d like to see you try,” I threw back at him, “but first you’ll have to escape your own sandy death trap” I wiggled my feet out of the sand, stood up and washed my hands off in the water. He followed my every move with curious eyes.
“Sweet dreams, Anastasia.” I wasn’t sure if there was an underlying meaning to his words.
“Sweet dreams, Finn,” I responded, breathlessly.
April 9, 2013
Alana Lorens ~~ Author Spotlight & Quickie!!!
Author Alana Lorens was awesome enough to join me today so I could pick her brain She’s the author of By Any Other Name, a contemporary romance published by Desert Breeze Publishing. Thanks for joining me, Alana!
Alana, I’m curious, what is something readers would be surprised to learn about you?
That I am the mother (adopted or otherwise) of seven children, two of whom are on the autism spectrum.
That is truly amazing! I only have two, and they keep me on my toes, hee-hee! If you had to choose between living in a restored farmhouse surrounded by pasture land, a cottage in the English countryside, or a villa in Italy with grape vines as far as the eye could see, what would you choose?
Wow, that’s a tough one!! I can see advantages to all three—especially because none of them are attached to my law office with its two constantly-ringing phones! Hmm. I think I’d go for the Italian villa. And maybe a couple of nice-looking guys as crop managers. :)
Ha ha!!! I like that answer What would be the first thing you’d buy if you won the lottery tomorrow?
A decked out pickup truck with a sun roof and personalized plates that let everyone know I’m a writer.
Aaaahhhh…personalized plates and maybe your website URL on the back window… If you had to describe your writing in one tagline, what would it be?
Characters you love engaged in adventure that thrills.
QUICKIE TIME!!!
1. Heels or flip flops ? Flip flops
2. Salmon or lasagna ? salmon
3. Brownie or sponge cake ? brownie
4. Train or plane? train
5. Soda or coffee? coffee
6. Paperback or eBook ? paperback
7. Sexy ghost or beefcake fireman? You know, I think I’d choose the ghost. I love the mystery of it.
Can you tell us where we can find BY ANY OTHER NAME?
It’s for sale at , Amazon.com and other online sales venues.
Would you please share with us a blurb and/or excerpt?
BLURB:
Up-and-coming mommyblogger and single mom Marisol Herrera Slade returns to her old hometown in western Pennsylvania for her 20th high school reunion, reluctant and yet compelled to see her high school sweetheart, Russell Asher, who dumped her for the homecoming queen.
Russell’s marriage to the golden girl, however, ended in a nasty divorce, and he has been systematically excluded from his sons’ lives. In his Internet wanderings, he’s found feminist blogger named Jerrika Jones, who glorifies single motherhood, essentially putting a stamp of approval on what’s happened to him. He’s vowed to take this woman down if they ever should meet.
What he doesn’t know, when he thinks to rekindle what he had with Marisol, is that Marisol and Jerrika are one and the same. When he discovers the truth, will his drive for revenge derail any chance they have to reunite? Or will they find they have more in common than they ever expected?
EXCERPT:
She started for the Sweet Spot coffee shop across the street, but hesitated when a silver Lexus squealed a U-turn in the center of Main, screeching to a stop and blocking her little rental in place. The door flew open, practically ejecting a tall, well-built man in jeans and a blue cotton shirt, whose attention was fixed on the vehicle in front of Marisol’s.
She couldn’t move as she belatedly recognized his large dark eyes and something in the piqued set of his jaw.
Russell Asher.
He’d aged, as they all had. His hair wasn’t as solidly black as she’d remembered from the summer she left town. The jeans, no longer slim cut, though he wasn’t overweight. But it was him.
Nausea tumbled like panicked butterflies in her stomach. One hand slipped to her middle, almost trying to reassure them not to make her throw up right here. She’d never expected a sudden confrontation. She hadn’t prepared.
But as she watched him, she saw she didn’t need to worry. He wasn’t interested in her in the least. He marched over to the SUV and parked himself against its shiny fender.
After several tries, she forced her feet to move, at least far enough to retreat inside the gazebo, where she sat on the edge of the fence, half hidden behind a painted support beam, the shade from the maples overhead helping to conceal her. She couldn’t help it. She could have walked away, just left her vehicle and come back for it later, but the situation was a car wreck waiting to happen. She could tell by the tension in his shoulders and his hands, clenched into fists. No way she was going to miss whatever occurred next.
Soon after, Tiffany and the boys, one of whom looked about Mark’s age, one a little younger, returned from the shop. The blonde, thin to the point of anorexia, stopped several yards from her car when she saw Russell there. The boys hung back behind their mother, affecting bored poses of crossed arms and blank skyward stares.
“What do you want, Rusty?” she asked. Her voice carried clearly across the twenty or twenty-feet between the sidewalk and the gazebo.
“To say hello to Jon and Barret. Since you haven’t let them come see me for the last three months.” He didn’t move off the car. “Hey, boys, come give your old dad a hug, hmm?”
The boys mumbled something Marisol couldn’t hear. If anything, they retreated toward the store, and finally the younger of the two, who looked maybe fifteen, bolted, heading back inside.
“That’s fabulous, Tiffy, just fabulous. What a great mother you are. So much for what our order says, right? That we’re supposed to encourage the children to love and honor the other parent?”
“What have you done worth honoring? Hmm?”
Tiffany’s voice still cut like a knife. Marisol had been the recipient of that sarcasm herself on more than one occasion. The pitch sounded like it had aged well over the years, like a fine wine.
“They’re my sons. They’re my parents’ grandchildren. You can’t keep them from us.”
Marisol watched his face, peeking from around the post. His shoulders hunched over, and he didn’t face Tiffany directly, but turned to the side just a little. Four years of therapy after Kirby Slade had left her taught her about body language and presenting herself strong.
Russell Asher was…afraid.
IF you want to add a book giveaway, just let me know what title. Also, include any author bio at the end, as well as any images or book cover images you want included with the post.
Alana Lorens has been a published writer for over 35 years, including seven years as a reporter and editor at the South Dade News Leader in Homestead, Florida. Her list of publications includes the non-fiction book 101 Little Instructions for Surviving Your Divorce, published by Impact Publishers in 1999, stories in A Cup of Comfort for Divorced Women, in December 2008, and A Cup of Comfort for Adoptive Parents, in June 2009. Her Clan Elves of the Bitterroot series (writing as Lyndi Alexander) is available from Dragonfly Publishing; THE ELF QUEEN in 2010 and THE ELF CHILD in March 2011, with THE ELF MAGE in early 2012.
Her first release (as Alana Lorens) is SECRETS IN THE SAND, in the Crimson Rose line from The Wild Rose Press. Since then, the Wild Rose Press has also published CONVICTION OF THE HEART, another romantic suspense novel, the first in the Pittsburgh Lady Lawyers series, and Zumaya Publications published the second in that series, SECOND CHANCES. In September 2012, The Wild Rose Press released the contemporary novella THAT GIRL’S THE ONE I LOVE.
2013 will see both the third in the Pittsburgh Lady Lawyer Series, VOODOO DREAMS, as well as the sweet contemporary novella BY ANY OTHER NAME, from Desert Breeze Publishing.
In a little different vein, Alana contributed a story to the collection SIDEKICKS! in spring 2013 from Alliteration Ink. The story may be set at a wedding, but does love really have anything to do with it?
Alana also takes care of a husband and a bunch of kids and blogs on a variety of subjects, including autism, science fiction and life atAwalkabout.
Thanks again for joining me today, Alana! And thanks to everyone who stopped by
Sincerely,
Niecey Roy
Wishing you Sexy Smooches & Happily-Ever-Afters
April 5, 2013
Christine Elaine Black ~~ Flavor of Love
Christine is the author of Maximus, a historical romance set in Ancient Rome and published with The Wild Rose Press.Check out Maximus by clicking HERE
Hi Niecey, Thanks for having me on your blog today. Food in ancient times is one of the topics I researched to ensure authenticity during the Roman time period. Interesting subject.
If Maximus was to make a romantic dinner for Carissa he would prepare something special for her. In Roman times a guy can’t just go to the grocery store so planning ahead is crucial. He’s pretty good a catching game in the book and a favorite of his is rabbit stew. He’s managed to collect a few spices, a flask of wine or two, and he’s paying a local farmer for access to his vegetables and fruit trees – all in all I think he’d manage to treat Carissa to a lovely dinner for two.
My Website
My Blog
Maximus on The Wild Rose Press
Check out Maximus by clicking HERE
MAXIMUS ~~ Christine Elaine Black
BLURB:
Carissa Valeria distrusts the handsome soldier who rescues her reckless son from plunging to an early death. Recalling the man’s heartless treatment of her from years ago, she itches to even the score, but her son hails the rescuer as a hero. When he becomes her neighbor, her son’s friendship with the soldier threatens to uncover old secrets and place her family and her heart in danger.Exiled to the countryside by the Roman emperor, Maximus Octavius is confounded by the brittle countenance of the woman he’s willing to befriend. She’s afraid, and he’s determined to find out why. But helping Carissa and her son means confronting the guilt of his long-forgotten past and stirring the silenced passion in his heart.Can Maximus win Carissa before fear and revenge tear them apart forever?
EXCERPT:
Four cubits away, a man idly leaned against a tree, watching her with a carefree grin on his face.
Maximus.
“Have you come to finish the job, Ulla?”
Carissa’s hand instinctively went to the knife.
He shook his head. “That little weapon doesn’t scare me half as much as the arrow you had earlier. You’ve come without the protection of the bow this time. Why?”
Carissa held fast to the knife, estimating her chances at removing it before he reached her. “I’m looking for my boy, nothing else.” Her pulse raced, and her mind swirled in turmoil. She swallowed down her fear and held his gaze, desperately wanting to run away but knowing he would catch her easily.
“He is not here, as you can see.” The man’s intense blue eyes burned into hers, hungry for something she could name but preferred to forget.
“I’ll be on my way.” Rooted to the spot, she trembled. If she passed him, she would be unable to defend against an attack.
His grin faded, and he narrowed his eyes. “You don’t like me, do you? Is it all men or just me you have a grudge against?”
“Just you.”
Check out Maximus by clicking HERE
AUTHOR BIO:
Christine Elaine Black, born and raised in the West of Scotland, currently resides in Ontario, Canada. Her favorite stories to write are romantic fiction with an ancient Roman theme. Lovers of romance are transported to a world brimming with fascinating characters, unexpected plot twists, and more than satisfying romantic entanglements. Discover a world of romance in ancient times, filled with danger, true love, and heart-stopping heroes embroiled in page-turning situations that make you fall in love with the past … again and again.
Thank you so much for joining the Flavor of Love today, Christine! And thanks to everyone for stopping by
If you’d like to purchase Maximus click HERE!!!
Sincerely,
Niecey Roy
Fender Bender Blues, a romantic comedy
Print & e-Book available at Amazon
Print available at The Wild Rose Press
Available everywhere May 3, 2013
nieceyroy@gmail.com
http://www.nieceyroy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/NieceyRoyRomanceAuthor
https://twitter.com/#!/NieceyRoy
April 4, 2013
Aberrant by Ruth Silver ~~ Cover Reveal!!!
Book Info-
Title-Aberrant
By Ruth Silver
Expected Publication Date: April 17, 2013
Cover Designed by Lazy Day Publishing
Blurb-
In the future dystopian society of Cabal, the government instills equality for all and offers its citizens the perfect system. There is food, shelter and jobs for everyone. The one requirement is to follow the rules without question, including the government’s match in marriage and “The Day of the Chosen”, a lottery that randomly selects families to conceive children as natural means hasn’t existed in generations. Following her eighteenth birthday, Olivia Parker accepts her requirement to marry her childhood best friend, Joshua Warren, and is eager to start her work assignment and new life when it all comes abruptly to an end as she’s arrested and thrown in prison. The only crime committed, her existence. Olivia is unlike the rest of the world born not from “The Day of the Chosen.” The truth haunts the government and puts her life in grave danger as one simple fact would destroy the perfect system.
With Joshua’s help, Olivia breaks free of prison and is forced on the run. Together they set out to find the promised rebel town in search of a new home and new life together. Their situation seems less than promising as they reach the town of Haven. New rules and customs must be adhered to in order to stay. Leaving would mean most certain death in the large expanse of the Gravelands. Time is running out as the government mounts an attack to destroy Olivia and bury her secret with her. Thrown into a world unlike their own, they must quickly adapt to survive.
About the Author-
Ruth Silver attended Northern Illinois University and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Communication in the spring of 2005. While in college, she spent much of her free time writing with friends she met online and penning her first novel, Deuces are Wild, which she self-published in 2004. Her favorite class was Creative Writing senior year where she often handed in assignments longer than the professor required because she loved to write and always wanted to finish her stories. Her love of writing led her on an adventure in 2007 to Melbourne, Australia. Silver enjoys reading, photography, traveling and most of all writing. She loves dystopian and fantasy young adult stories. Her debut novel published by Lazy Day Publishing, ABERRANT is scheduled for release April 2013. Ruth has been actively writing since she was a teenager. She currently resides in Plainfield, Illinois.
You can visit her online at http://writeawaybliss.com
Blog: http://writeawaybliss.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/writeawaybliss
Twitter: https://twitter.com/writeawaybliss
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Ruth-Silver/e/B008NGH038/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1
April 3, 2013
Leanne Davis ~~ Author Spotlight & Quickie
Super excited to have Leanne Davis, author of Poison, joining me for an Author Spotlight and Quickie Let’s jump right in!
Leanne, what is something readers would be surprised to learn about you?
Ever been on a construction job site? That was my first job out of college. At the age of 22 and really short (like I just reach 5 foot) and very girlie looking, I was the assistant project manager for a general contractor. It was a little odd being the (mostly) only girl and very young, and well, not at all a construction worker! My work was the paperwork and correspondence but I spent a lot of time on the sites.
Hm. I suppose I could handle that job if the construction crew was full of gorgeous guys with super muscular bodies ha! If you had the chance to be taken into outerspace (think Star Trek, Next Generation-ish-ish), would you do it? Or are you happy with your feet planted firmly on Earth’s ground?
Feet happily planted on Earth; I use my imagination to go all the places I physically can’t!
Sometimes I like to sing my face off before I get to writing a scene, sort of like mood enhancement to shake things up a bit. What do you do to prepare for writing a scene, or do you just dive in and wing it?
I turn music up way to loud (or if people are around, my ipod). I always write to music playing, it gets me out of my ordinary life and into my imaginary one. What better job could there be???
Quickie time!
1. Lipstick or lip gloss? Gloss
2. Shimmery eye shadow or neutrals? Shimmery
3. Shake or malt? Shake
4. Fries or baked potatoe? Fries
5. Coffee or soda? COFFEE [ha ha!!! I love how you answered that one in ALL CAPS!!!]
6. Vanilla or chocolate? Chocolate
7. Paperback or eBook? eBook
8. Monsters or aliens? Monsters
Where can we find Poison?
Amazon KDP Select for now.
As of July 5th, Poison will be available in print and other distributors.
Can you share a blurb and excerpt from Poison
Cassie Reeves betrayed John Tyler a decade ago, but now, John is the only person Cassie can turn to for help protecting her son from her violent ex-husband. John’s quiet life as a small town doctor in Seaclusion, Washington has no place in it for Cassie, her son, or the feelings Cassie’s presence rekindles. John and Cassie’s mutual attraction reignites, despite everything that drove them apart a decade ago, and threatens to destroy them now. No matter how much Cassie has changed, and tried to right her past wrongs, there is no escaping her ex-husband. Cassie knows that only she can end what her ex-husband has started. But will she survive long enough to have a chance at the happiness that has escaped her for so long?
EXCERPT:
Cassie sighed and pushed the flowers onto the counter between them. She tidied her desk, avoiding his gaze. Finally she stood and gathered her things.
He watched her. He didn’t like hearing Tim was scared his mom wouldn’t come home from work. What kind of knowledge was that for a kid to have? Hell, he didn’t like that Cassie was scared that she wasn’t going to come home from work. He didn’t think anyone could fake the fear she had of the innocuous floral arrangement.
Cassie was just about to hustle past him, when he put a hand on her arm to stop her. She paused, looking at his hand, then up into his eyes. Her lips trembled. She quickly dropped her face from his view. She raised a hand to wipe at her cheeks. Tears?
Damn it all to hell. A stab of genuine sympathy filled him. He put a knuckle under her chin and forced her to look up him. Her eyes were glazed in moisture. She was trying not to cry. He swallowed, unsure why her efforts to hold back tears from him put a knot in his throat. Had he become so heartless with his anger that he couldn’t let her fear a man she seemed to think wanted to physically harm her?
“Cassie—”
Author Bio
Leanne Davis has earned a business degree from
Western Washington University. She worked for
several years in the construction management field
before turning full time to writing. She lives in the
Seattle area with her husband and two children. When
she isn’t writing she and her family enjoy camping trips
to destinations all across Washington State.
Thanks for joining me today, Leanne, and thanks to everyone for stopping by!
April 2, 2013
Sarah Hoss ~~ Author Spotlight and Quickie!!!
I’m super excited to have author Sarah Hoss with me today! Not only is she stopping by to visit my Flavor of Love for the Author Spotlight and Quickie, but she’s also going to give away a free eBook! So, if you’d like to be entered in the drawing, all you got to do is leave a comment below. Answer Quickie # 7 (with your own preference) and you’ll be entered in the drawing
So, Sarah, let’s just jump right in!!! What is something readers would be surprised to learn about you? 
I took 16 yrs. of tap and jazz dance lessons. I also performed for the Pan Am Opening Ceremonies in the late 80’s that were held in Indianapolis Indiana.
If you had to choose between being driven around in a limo or driving your own sexy car, say, a Beemer or a Ferrari, what would you prefer?
I would choose to drive myself. I don’t want people waiting on me. I want to take the time I need to do what I want and when I want. Besides, the money I save on paying for a driver, I can put toward gas money! ; )
If someone were to tell you, “I’m going to give you an all expense trip to anywhere, but you have to do it tomorrow,” where would you go?
Scotland!
Quickie time!
1. Fuzzy slippers or tennis shoes? Fuzzy slippers
2. Chicken or steak? Chicken
3. Brownie or vanilla cake? Brownie
4. Hiking or bike riding? Hiking
5. Soda or coffee? Soda
6. Paperback or eBook? Paperback
7. Sexy vampires or sexy wolfy-wolf? Sexy Vampires
All right, now that I’m done with my daily dose of NOSEY, where can we find DREAMS OF THE HIGHLANDER ?
I absolutely love the cover, by the way!!! Can you share a blurb and excerpt from Dreams of the Highlander ???
BLURB
Haunted by a recurring dream, Marlana Crawford ventures to Scotland in search of answers. But a careless wish lands her in the 17th century and the arms of Alexander Macpherson—a handsome, brooding, Highlander, who after losing his wife and babe during childbirth, vowed never to love again.
Surprised to find a mysterious, brown-haired beauty in his home, Alexander fights the undeniable attraction between them and is determined to figure out a way to send her packing without losing his head or his heart.
When Marlana has a chance encounter with his enemy, it changes the stakes, and Alexander is forced to face two battles, one to win Marlana’s affection, the other to save her life.
Purchase Dreams of the Highlander
EXCERPT
Newtonmore Scotland, 1701
“Mairi,” he whispered.
“I love ye with all of my heart.” The evidence of that love clung to her soft voice.
Alexander swallowed the lump of fear that rose in his throat. “I love ye, too.” He lowered his gaze to their beautiful son nestled in his arms. Brown hair dusted the little head and he gently ran his hands over the silky forehead as he fought back tears.
“I want ye to be happy, Alexander.” A blanket of confusion covered him as she turned away in sadness to stare out the window.
“What are ye saying, Mairi? Ye’re going to be fine.” He said it with as much conviction as he could muster. His hand cupped her cheek, his thumb slowly brushing strokes back and forth.
Alexander readjusted himself on the bed. She turned then, to stare back into his eyes, her hand grasping his. The sadness had left and in its place, determination settled in.
“No, I won’t and we both know it.” She swallowed with difficulty. “Promise me, Alexander. Promise me ye willna grieve for me forever.” He watched, stunned, as her hand dropped from his.
Alexander heard his mother sobbing in the background as he sat there with his stillborn son held tightly in his arms and watched his wife slip peacefully from this world.
Purchase Dreams of the Highlander
AUTHOR BIO:
Sarah Hoss grew up believing she could try anything and if she set her mind to it, she would succeed. Sixteen years of dance lessons, Cheerleading, and school plays proved to her that her parent’s words rang true. Writing was no exception. Reading the Outlander series made her fall in love with time travels and the historical places books could take her. Always a child with a vivid imagination, she realized as an adult, she could put her imagination to good use and began writing. Marrying her very own hero, they live in Indiana in the town where she grew up. They have three beautiful children and one hyper dog. When Sarah isn’t writing, she enjoys gardening, camping, and watching her kids’ play sports.
Purchase Dreams of the Highlander
Where to find Sarah-
Website- www.sarahhoss.com
Blog- www.heart-of-romance.blogspot.com
Twitter- @SarahHoss1
She is also on Linked IN, Pinterest, and Goodreads.
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sarah-Hoss/237219983049037
Remember! Answer Quickie #7 with your own preference (sexy vampires or sexy wolfy-wolf) and you’ll be entered in the drawing for a free eBook gifted by author Sarah Hoss.
Sarah, thank you so much for joining! And thanks to everyone for stopping by
Sincerely,
Niecey Roy
Fender Bender Blues, a romantic comedy
Print & e-Book available at Amazon
Print available at The Wild Rose Press
Available everywhere May 3, 2013
nieceyroy@gmail.com
http://www.nieceyroy.com/
http://www.facebook.com/NieceyRoyRomanceAuthor
https://twitter.com/#!/NieceyRoy
March 31, 2013
Alpha Girl ~~ author Kate Bloomfield
Book Info-
Title-Alpha Girl
Series-Wolfling Saga Book #1
By: Kate Bloomfield
Genre: New Adult/Mature YA ( 15 & up) Paranormal Romance
**not intended for audiences younger than 15 years of age, as it contains scenes of a sexual nature, and coarse language.
Please do not read if you are easily offended.**
Blurb-
Seventeen year old Rose Goldman is highly unpopular in the little town of Halfway. Ever since the ‘attack’ when she was a girl, people and animals have been afraid of her. She gets bullied in school, and called ‘wet dog’ because of the way she smells, despite being extremely hygienic. However, life takes a turn when a new teacher starts at Halfway High. Mr. Stone, the quirky and charismatic English teacher is twice Rose’s age, but she feels an unexplainable pull towards him from day one. Despite her better judgement, Rose pursues a friendship with Mr. Stone, who seems unable to stay away from her.
What is pulling this unlikely pair together?
~~ Goodreads ~~ Amazon (ebook) ~~ Smashwords ~~ Lulu (paperback) ~~
Reviews:
“I was riveted. Alpha Girl is quite intimate and has a fairly small cast of characters. The protagonist is very believable and wasn’t annoying, which is a frequent problem in a lot of books featuring teenage lead characters narrating in the first-person. This is a romance (albeit a twisted one). Don’t pick up this book expecting a darkly sweet, cutesy love story. This book will blast you out of your comfort zone and make you hate yourself for turning the page. But you will turn the page.”
- Review of Alpha Girl by Mark Carver, Author of The Age of Apollyon.
About the Author-Best-selling and independent Australian author, Kate Bloomfield, has successfully made a name for herself in the world of self-publishing at just twenty-three years old. Her newest and most precious book yet, Alpha Girl, is a controversial Paranormal Romance between a student and teacher. A book not for those easily offended.
Kate was born in Enfield, London in 1989, but has lived in Wollongong, Australia for most of her life.
Now working full time as an independent author, Kate has published four novels, and two short stories.
Her fifth novel ‘Alpha Girl’ is a paranormal romance that explores a complicated a student/teacher relationship. It is due for release on April 1st 2013.
For more information about Alpha Girl, please visit:www.bloomfieldkate.com
Blog:www.katebloomfieldauthor.blogspot.com
Twitter:www.twitter.com/katebloomfield
Facebook:www.facebook.com/katebloomfieldauthor
Wattpad:www.wattpad.com/katebloomfield
Goodreads:http://www.goodreads.com/KateBloomfield
Amazon:http://amzn.com/e/B0077DUFJO
Excerpt (Ch 8)-
Mr. Stone’s smile faltered. ‘I like my women to have a mind of their own – to be witty. Like you.’
My throat closed up. Like me?
‘You’re an amazing girl,’ he said suddenly.
His use of the word girl made my stomach twist painfully.
‘Am I?’ I asked.
‘Of course.’
‘A girl?’
He smiled knowingly. ‘An amazing woman,’ he corrected himself.
‘No one has ever told me that before,’ I said.
‘I don’t believe that,’ he smiled. ‘You’re clever, and beautiful, and damn witty.’
Mr. Stone’s jaw tensed as he realized what he was saying.
‘Beautiful?’ I asked, the word escaping as nothing more than a whisper.
‘Don’t you know?’ he asked.
My heart thundered as I stared at him. Oh please, my mind begged. Please tell me what is going on in that head of yours.
‘D-don’t I know what?’ I asked.
‘Don’t you know what you’re doing to me?’ He said as though I was torturing him.
‘What?’ My skin stung and my head swam with the possibilities.
‘Rose, I-’ He paused to collect his thoughts. ‘I’ve felt this … this pull towards you since day one. I can’t explain it.’
He didn’t need to explain it, because I felt it too. His eyes, his smile and his scent had me drawn in.
I placed a shaking hand over his, which was still on the steering wheel. He looked at our hands for a moment before allowing me to thread my fingers through his. I could feel his pulse in between each of my fingers.
Mr. Stone inhaled deeply. ‘Christ,’ he muttered, shutting his eyes tightly.
‘What’s the matter?’ I breathed.
‘That … that scent. The way you smell-’
I suddenly became very self-conscious. Bullies at school often accused me of smelling like wet dog. I
sniffed my shirt, but I smelled perfectly normal.
‘What is it?’ I said defensively. ‘I showered this morning-’
Mr. Stone laughed, and I felt my cheeks burn with embarrassment.
‘No,’ he said with a small smile. ‘You smell amazing.’
‘I do?’
‘Absolutely. You always do.’
I never wore perfume, only regular home brand antiperspirant.
‘It makes me dizzy,’ he confessed. ‘It’s intoxicating.’
‘What do I smell like?’ I asked, rather flushed.
Mr. Stone licked his lips as though he could taste me in the air. ‘Sweet,’ he said.
My cheeks burned crimson, and I wished he would look at me. I couldn’t believe this was happening.
‘I want to kiss you so very badly, Rose,’ Mr. Stone said under his breath. ‘But I can’t … and it’s killing me.’
My heart hammered so loudly against my ribcage that I was sure Mr. Stone could hear it from where he sat.
Suddenly, I felt powerful. He wanted me … and it terrified him.
‘Mr. Stone,’ I breathed, but he still didn’t look at me. ‘Tom.’
A small groan escaped him as though his name leaving my lips was taboo.
‘Look at me,’ I said, my eyes fixated on him.
‘I can’t,’ he said, shaking his head.
