A.R. Von's Blog, page 20

February 26, 2014

Finding You by Kelly Harper Blog Tour

FindingYou_KH_TourBanner Synopsis How far would you go? When Sarah moved away from her hometown to go to college she thought she was doing it to be with her boyfriend Huck. But when she discovers he's a cheater out to get whatever he wants, she finds herself alone in a new city. Armed with only a few people she can trust, Sarah sets out to carve her place in the world.Jeremy's life came to a stand still two years ago, but now he's trying to make something of himself. He heads off to college to put his past behind him and start something new. When he meets Sarah he knows he's in for a roller coaster ride. He hasn't felt this way about someone in a long time--he never felt like he'd feel this way, again.As Sarah and Jeremy get to know each other, she realizes there's something special about him. Something she has never felt before. But there's something he's holding back from her, something he's keeping hidden. Can Sarah find a way to trust someone again, or will Jeremy's past reveal itself? And will she be able to handle it if it does?Finding You is book 3 of The By You Series but can be read as a standalone novel. Buy Now Finding You   AMAZON / AMAZON CA / AMAZON UK / BARNES & NOBLE add-to-goodreads-button31 Excerpt Sarah's stomach exploded into a jittery mess when she saw Jeremy standing there, giving her that sexy smile. Before she could say anything, he took a step closer and threw his arms around her, pulling her into a tight hug. All at once she felt the hardness of his chest against her cheek, and the sweet smell of his cologne--it smelled expensive, whatever it was. As their bodies pressed into one another, Sarah's breath slipped away from her. One moment she had been watching Billie, and the next she had found herself in the arms of the guy she'd been thinking about all day. Heat rushed to her face, and she was thankful he couldn't see her.Get a hold of yourself, you barely even know this guy.When they pulled away, he still had that beaming smile on his face. And those crystal blue eyes took all of her in--they might have been the most gorgeous eyes she'd ever seen. He was wearing a fitted, black button-up shirt with his hair spiked like it normally was. His jeans were tight, and they were rolled up at the bottom with black shoes to round off the image. The top two buttons of the shirt were undone. MeetTheAuthor FACEBOOK / GOODREADS / TWITTER / WEBSITELike for many, life for Kelly didn't really begin until her 30th birthday. That was when she decided she was done with the corporate ladder and was going to start publishing some of her stories to see if people liked them. Fast forward a couple of years, and she's still amazed that she's able to spend her time doing something she's loved doing since she was a little kid.Most of her free time is spent working in front of the computer at various coffee shops around Houston. But when she's not working on her next book, she's probably sitting in front of the TV with her eyes glued to whatever Netflix show she happens to be obsessed with at the time. Do we really have to wait this long for the next season of Orange Is The New Black?!Follow her on Twitter, @harper_books, or head over to her Facebook page (http://on.fb.me/1fo0reU) and leave her a message. Her website is currently going through some construction, and will be up and running sometime in February. Giveaway a Rafflecopter giveaway Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000039_00075] Hosted by EJ Button
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Published on February 26, 2014 21:00

February 25, 2014

#WedBriefs It's All in the Tips #8


Happy Hump Day and welcome to Wednesday Briefs Flash Fiction! As always, I was given numerous options to inspire this weeks brief. Today I chose to go with the 2 photos included below and the following word prompt: “You’re not leaving, are you?”

I hope you enjoy & thank you for reading!"It's All in the Tips #8"

I don’t think she knows who or what she truly is. I still don’t know a hundred percent myself, only a recognizable portion that’s currently calling out to a kindred spirit. The portion of her that’s like me.
            Now that I’m sensing a bit more of her, I’m shocked no one else has pointed out to her how valuable her rarity or existence is. To all that exist in the paranormal world she’s a treasure, a queen. I had no idea of it up until her power started seeping, flowing throughout the bar as she plays the piano. The emotions are being filtered from me, through her and back with such intense lightness. I feel so free and content.                 Getting closer to her the way I am at the moment brings even more welcome emotions to the front lines, mate, mine. I wonder if this is the reason why I’m sensing her inner tenant, so to speak. The fact that she’s calling to my beast, it’s screaming, clawing for its mate. It started as soon as we got close to her while she was playing the tune. There was nothing but an attraction, a desire prior to that. This is all so very strange…
            I never thought I’d have one, ever. A mate is so rare for my kind, almost unheard of! And to find out right this moment, that she’s just like me, but with…more. Makes it all the better. At least I think it does.
            I take a step away from her after whispering in her ear that she can confide in me and I instantly feel the loss of her presence and comfort. I’m not used to this. To having any of these feelings. These are good feelings, positive feelings, feelings that have been few and far between throughout my years.
            In a rush I get the urge to take her far away to a secluded island, where no one would find us, and keep her under me until the end of time. Just the two of us until our time comes to an end, which with true mates like my inner beast is claiming she is to me, when one dies, the other quickly follows. But this is all ridiculous. I don’t even know if she’d enjoy submitted to me, giving me complete control in the bedroom. Domination her body, pleasing each and every single one of her nerve ending until she screams my name and begs me to stop. I don’t even know if she feelings anything as I do.
            For all I know she might be the dominant type between the sheets. I can imagine her taking control, riding me until I was drained dry. Commanding me to eat her sweet pussy until she passed out from the greatest of pleasure. I’d have no problem with that. None what-so-ever. But again, all of these thoughts, feelings, emotions, all of it right now feel so…strange.
             I need some space, some time. I need to think before I can no longer ignore this pull I feel directing me toward her, Renee. She’s definitely not fully aware of the paranormal world or what lurks right around her. I don’t want to frighten her by telling her too much too soon. It’s best I leave and gain my composure. I’ll come back another time while I have control over my feelings for her and slowly reveal the paranormal world to her, what I am and what I believe she is.
            I take one more step backward, then turn to head out the door. I didn’t realize she stopped playing until I heard her say softly, “You’re not leaving, are you?”
            Frozen in place. I was not sure what to say to her. I don’t want to lie, no relationship, friendship or otherwise, that you truly cherish should ever be based on a lie. The truth is always best. Actually true mates could never lie to one another. It’s instinct to tell the truth even if you think up a lie. But I can’t give her all of the truth at the moment. Turning around to face her, I omit many of the things I need to tell her and speak the truth with some trimming. “Yes ma’am.”
            She’s not aware that I know her name yet. We’ve not even been properly introduced yet. I don’t want to give her any wrong ideas or anything.
            “It’s pretty late and I have to make my way home.”
            I clear my throat, feeling awkward, “It’s best I leave now.”
            Her eyes flash with sadness and she looks down at the floor. My feet move on their own accord and quickly I find myself kneeling before her without realizing my movement. What the fuck?
            One of my hands is on her knee while the other tucks a lock of hair behind her ear, then glides down to her chin lifting her face so I can look into her eyes. The shock that travels through me as our eyes meet is indescribable…





Be sure to check back for the next brief!


Here are other AMAZING Wednesday Briefs for you to visit:
Andrew Q. Gordon Jon Keys JC Wallace Shelly Schulz Larry Benjamin MA Church Chris T. Kat Sarah Hayes Grace Duncan   Rob Colton Raine O’Tierney Cia Nordwell  Victoria Adams Tali Spencer Lily Sawyer   Julie Lynn Hayes
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Published on February 25, 2014 21:00

February 23, 2014

Walk Into Me Blitz




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I know I will never get over her. Watching her walk away with him ripped my heart out and left it bleeding on the floor. But I can’t hide anymore. I have to face my life without her. ~ Brad
Brad has been in love with Lisa for as long as he can remember. One night years ago they took each other’s virginity but while it was the best night of Brad’s life, for Lisa it was a way to forget about Bobby. Or was it?  Brad re-emerges right when Lisa needs him most. Only Brad knows everything about her and when Lisa’s insecurities come to the surface the shoulder Lisa needs is Brad’s. Now Brad has to decide if he has it in him to trust his heart.   
PrologueBrad She left with him. I watched them walk out of the party into the cold night air with his arm around her. What is she thinking? He is only back for a few days and she’ll be alone again and she’ll be crying on my shoulder that he doesn’t call or write. I know she loves him and I can see the pull they have on each other, but really, why does she do this to herself?

I make my way over to the keg and get another beer. I might as well get drunk so I don’t have to think about him touching her. Joe is there and he pats my shoulder, “How you doing?”

“I was having a great time until a few minutes ago,” I say, pouring my beer. “Hey, let’s get a game of quarters going,” I suggest. Joe’s kitchen table is just right and it wouldn’t take much to clear it off. Joe’s not much of a drinker, but he starts rounding up some of the guys to play.

Richie, Doug, and Rob come over as I’m moving bags of snacks to the counter. Rob starts flipping a quarter while Richie looks in the cabinet for a glass.  “Good idea Brad, we need to get this party rockin’,” he says sliding the glass into the middle of the table. By that time George and Chris have joined us and a few of the girls are standing by to watch. We each take a few practice shots to get used to the table and then we start. Within 15 minutes I have downed 3 beers and started to get a buzz. I should feel fine by the time midnight comes around.
Suddenly she’s there, standing across the room, with tears running down her beautiful face. What the hell did he do to her this time? I stand up and tell the guys I’m out. I walk over and hold out my hand like she’s a wounded animal I have to get to trust me. She looks at me and falls into my arms.
“He doesn’t want me,” she cries.
I kiss her head and lead her out the sliding glass door.  “How can he not want you? I’m sure you’re wrong.” I stroke her back and god she smells great.“We were making out...and other things, but when he found out I was still a virgin, he stopped and told me to get dressed. That he didn’t want to be the one to take my virginity.”  Her words come out all sniffly and I can feel my shirt getting wet from her tears. “I should have just done it with Steve and then I would be in his arms right now. I mean what does it matter if he is the first or someone else is? I don’t want to be a virgin anymore.”
I know the feeling but the only person I want to be with is currently crying in my arms about another guy. I’ve loved her since the sixth grade, when she sat next to me on the bus the first time. I can’t imagine my life without her.
“Will you do it?”  She looks up at me.  “Will you sleep with me Brad?”
My heart stops, she did not just ask me that. Just the thought of touching her like that has me hard. “You don’t mean that Lisa, you’re just upset,” I say as I brush the hair away from her eyes.
“No, I’m totally serious. I don’t want to be a virgin anymore and other than Bobby I can’t think of anyone I would rather do it with.”  She puts her hand behind my head and pulls me down for a kiss. She is tentative and sweet and I can taste her tears on her lips. I have waited so long to kiss her.  I lick the seam and her mouth opens to me. I moan because my whole body is on fire and I am not going to be able to stop. My hand fists in her hair and I pull it back to angle her head and my tongue explores every crevice of her mouth. I have wanted this for so long and now here she is letting me kiss her. I press her body against mine so she can feel how she affects me. Her hands start stroking my back and my shirt starts to pull up, my cock jerks when her fingers touch my skin and I suck the air out of her mouth. I know we have to move, we can’t do this here.
I break the kiss and stroke her cheek, her eyes are half closed and I hope she’s not thinking of him, but even if she is I am taking my one chance, “Let’s get out of here, my parents aren’t home,” I lean down and give her a quick kiss.“I’m driving Jodi home; I can’t leave her,” she starts to pull away and I can see she’s thinking about what we’re doing. This is not going to end the way I want it to unless I get her out of here now.
“Hold on,” I tell her and take out my phone. “Hey John, Lisa is upset and I’m taking her home.  We will leave her keys with Joe, can you drive Jodi home?” I listen as he relays what I’ve said to Jodi and hear her ask where we are. “Let Jodi know she just needs to be somewhere else right now.” I pull her against me and stroke her hair. God, I love this girl and I hope to show her how much tonight. I am going to worship her body with mine. John agrees to get both Jodi and Lisa’s car home and I hang up. “Let’s give your keys to Joe and get out of here,” I take her hand and lead her in. I can tell she’s a little hesitant, but she’s still coming with me. Lisa hands Joe her keys without saying a word and walks towards the front door.
“Is she okay?”  He whispers to me.
“Bobby did a job on her again,” I pat his shoulder. “I’ll make sure she’s okay. What are friends for right?”
He knows I want to be more than just her friend. Hell, everyone knows, even Lisa, but it’s never been possible before. Now maybe he fucked up enough for her to give me a shot. I gotta believe this will be more than just one night.I follow her out to my car and she is waiting for me. “Are you sure?” I ask even as I wonder why I feel the need to give her an out?
“I’m sure Brad. I want it to be you.”  She leans up on her toes and kisses me. If I don’t stop this I will never get her home. I open the door for her and she slides in. It only takes us fifteen minutes to get to my house, and we have the place to ourselves.
Taking her hand, I lead her up the stairs to my room.  I’m so glad my mother makes me keep it clean; I know there are no dirty clothes lying around.  I close my door behind us and just look at her. I have fantasized about having her here for years. Not that she hasn’t been here before, but never for more than doing homework.
She walks up to me and starts to unbutton my shirt, she doesn’t say anything as her fingers work from one button to another. I reach down and put my finger under her chin, she finally looks at me. “Lisa, we don’t have to do this.”She runs her hand up my now bare chest to my neck and pulls me down towards her mouth, “I want this,” she says breathlessly into my mouth as our lips meet. My hands find her hips and pull her against me. I let my tongue explore her mouth, god she tastes sweet! My cock is jerking in my pants and her hand stroking my chest is driving me crazy. I move my hands under her short skirt and grab her ass. I’ve been obsessed with that ass, I love to watch her walk away from me.
I lift her up, she puts her legs around me, and I let my fingers explore her slit. Her panties are damp and I hope to god that is from me and not him.  I can’t think anymore. All I feel is her and I want to be inside her. I walk us over to my bed and place her on it. I stand up and take off my pants leaving my underwear on and she takes off her shirt and skirt. “God, you’re beautiful Lisa,” I say, laying down beside her.
I tentatively reach out for her breast and gently touch her nipple through the lace. I hear as she sighs, “I need you to touch me Brad.”
Losing all control, I pull the bra down and take her nipple into my mouth.  I suck her and lick that tight little nub. My cock is straining against her leg and I rub myself against her. She reaches behind her, undoes the clasp, and her bra falls away. I grab onto the other breast and kneed it roughly.
Arching her back, she moans, “More Brad, I need more.”
I move my hand lower and slip it under the silk into the wetness.  Lisa lifts her hips to meet my hand and I slip a finger into her, I stroke her a few times before adding another. She is so tight and I worry about hurting her.  She pushes her underwear down, lifting her hips and pushing my fingers further inside, she says, “That feels good Brad, please.”
“Please what?” I look up at her face.
“Now. I want you inside me now,” she says seriously as she looks at me. 
“Please.”
I pull off my boxers and reach into the drawer next to the bed to get a condom. Thank god for health class. I roll the condom on and position myself between her legs and push inside. It feels so good, she’s tight and I have to stop for a moment or I’m going to lose it before I’m totally inside her. I pull out almost all the way and push back in harder and feel her barrier give way. She inhales sharply and I know I’ve hurt her.  “Are you okay?” I ask.
She looks up at me with tears in her eyes, “I’m fine just give me a moment.”I don’t know if I can, the urge to move is too great. I start to pull out and she shuts her eyes. I have to move and I start stroking slowly. She keeps her eyes closed I don’t know if I’m hurting her, but I can’t stop. I move faster and within a minute find my release. I lean down to kiss her and she lets me.
That was the best night of my life. The worst...was when I watched Bobby carry her away.
Teasers




Playlist: 
Into Me Playlist



And don't forget about the first book! Fall in love with Lisa and Bobby all over again! 


Buy Links:    
 AMAZON  KOBO  ITUNES

Blurb:

At the age of seventeen, Lisa was broken when Bobby left. He was supposed to be her first. First Love. First Time. First Everything. No word for six long years. She moved away from the painful reminders sacrificing her relationship with her best friend Brad. 

Now six years later she returns as a strong, successful woman grabbing a job at one of New York’s hottest marketing agencies. She is dating a gorgeous guy with his eyes on a corner office. But it all changes when she sees Bobby.

Can she risk another heartbreak from Bobby? Will she be able to repair her friendship with Brad? Lisa will have to decide between the man she's with, and the two men that want her.

Who will she be with, and who will she tell to "Watch Me Walk Away?"





Dreamcast: 


BRAD

Lisa

Bobby

Meet Jill Prand



Amazon * Website * Goodreads * Facebook * Twitter * Pinterest
Living in Northern New Jersey and originally from Long Island, Jill Prand is a wife and mother of two girls. She's been an avid reader all her life, spending Sunday afternoons curled up with a good book. 

"We had a huge bookshelf in our den when I was a child with a diverse set of authors like Ayn Rand, Stephen King, Mario Puzo & Danielle Steele. I cut my literary teeth on Walter Farley, Judy Blume and SE Hinton before raiding my parents library." 
Jill is currently working on the Walking Series as well as a stand alone novel. She loves to hear from readers.




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Published on February 23, 2014 21:30

Review Infinity Unleashed (Valkyries: Soaring Raven #2) by Sedona Venez

"Infinity Unleashed" 17800668 Author: Sedona VenezGenre: Paranormal RomancePages: 254Source: Author in exchange for an honest review.Published: December 10, 2013
Buy Links: Amazon





Blurb:*New Adult Paranormal Romance*

A new adult story of Betrayal. Sex. Addiction. Love. And Power...

Mason's diabolical plan had actually worked.

In a matter of minutes he had kidnapped me, stripping me of everything...money, family, and freedom. It was humbling, depressing, and damn infuriating but I refuse to go down without a fight. I refuse to be defeated.

Boulder will find me. I didn't know how, but I felt it deep in my soul.

Boulder...the one man that made my body quake with just one look. It was madness. There was so much I didn't know about him. For that matter, there was so much that he didn't know about me…like the evil darkness lurking inside me, waiting to be unleashed.

Could he accept me without judging?

That's where most men failed. Accepting the real me. But after years of hardening my heart, and sealing it behind a steel cage, I was ready to give myself to him freely. Knowing, that he planned to take everything I offered with both hands, until all I thought of...and wanted...was him…
My Review:A great continuation from where book one of the series left off. I'm a bit grrr about the way it ended. But all in all I found it to be an entertaining read that most fans of the genre will enjoy.
Also, I recommend reading book 1 (Infinity) before starting on this one so you'll understand and enjoy it more :)

Infinity is being pulled, tugged, manipulated and virtually brain washed to pieces because so many desire her for what she's to become. But what about her? What about what Infinity wants?
That's answered and more once the higher ups get involved and shed some much needed light on the situation.

I absolutely adore Boulder. He's the man and a perfect match for Infinity! I look forward to what's in store in the next of the series.




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Published on February 23, 2014 21:30

Blitz Goodbye Caution & Goodbye Secrets


For anyone that has yet to meet Jacquelyn you are in for a treat. This is her official author bio!I am a Domestic Engineer (born and raised in NJ) whose sole responsibility is to guide three young impressionable kids into becoming phenomenal adults. This challenging, yet rewarding work requires a lot of love (coffee), patience (wine) and determination (periodic exorcisms). I work all of this magic in the beautiful state of New Hampshire. Before becoming a Domestic Goddess (not really), I spent over a decade working in the medical field where I wore more hats than the Queen. I have had a love for the written word and the great escape it provides since I was a little girl. When I wasn't reading about people and the places they lived, I was creating my own characters and adventures. Finally, I have been putting a pen to paper allowing my characters to come to life. When I don't have a pen and paper in hand,you can often find me laughing at the conversations my characters are having in my head.Now she forgets to add into that that she is, in the very best way possible, as crazy as a box of frogs, once she gets to know you, you can expect……..•      Mad dances on your twitter timeline!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNGIg8...•      Arcs in your e mail! Whoo Hooo •         Emoji’s and love notes ;-) in your morning inbox She is honestly one of the most ‘giving’ people we have ever come across and here at BNW we are happy to call her our friend.And –she’s as you may have guessed, an author!!You need to check out her work!!Goodbye Caution (lost and found #1) released in January Becca Campbell is a mother, friend, and widow to a war hero (may he rot in hell). She just wants to raise her daughter right and keep her bed-and-breakfast afloat in this economy. Her traumatic past leaves her with no desire for a relationship—until Grayson James walks through her door. He’s not the type of man you can easily say “no” to. Becca can’t quite understand the pull she feels toward him. But then his controlling nature starts to push her away—and into Ray McNeil’s comforting arms. Which is right where Ray has always wanted her. Who will Becca choose? Will she finally give in to her feelings for Ray, or continue the tumultuous relationship with Grayson? Only one thing is certain—either choice will mean saying goodbye to caution. Review Snippets for Goodbye Caution AMAZON US: AMAZON UK: Goodbye Secrets (Lost and found #3) releases 26th Feb What if your life wasn’t exactly as you thought it was? What if there were secrets you kept—from yourself? Becca Campbell has no idea her world is about to be turned upside down when she and Grayson return to New Hampshire. Pieces start flying into place, answering the questions of the puzzle she calls her life. Things finally add up—it all makes sense. All that was lost is now found. But will she be able to move forward, knowing the truth? ADD TO GOODREADS: Goodbye Uncertainty (Lost and Found #3) release to be confirmed. Jacquelyn has lots of other works in progress too! Check out our interview with her to see what’s coming up!Hi Jacquelyn and welcome to the virtual HQ of BNW!  Im sorry for the mess *shuffles tour packets and Arcs out of the way*So my first question starts at the beginning with Goodbye Caution. It’s an unusual book, very fast paced, and it touches on some risqué subjects. Where did the idea for Goodbye Caution come from?When I think back to the very beginning stages of Goodbye Caution, I can't help but chuckle. The Elm Creek Quilt novels by Jennifer Chiaverini inspired me, actually. This wonderful series is based around women who've built their friendships from their common love of quilting. Being a scrap booker myself, I could see the potential in building a series around the love of scrapping. So Becca Campbell and her lovely Bed and Breakfast (that host Scrapbooking weekends) were born. However, once she was, she sort of took over the reigns. It was not going to be as wholesome as it was set out to be. Becca turned into your everyday, quirky, fun-loving kind of person. I wanted her to be relate-able. Look like most women, have real issues and love the things that other women love. So she's the girl next door with a heart of gold, a great sense of humour, and an effed up past.Grayson can be demanding, all consuming and overpowering at times, how did you manage to make him so likeable and hot at the same time?You know, I think having his POV the entire story makes him likeable (to most). I was actually shocked as to how many women are on Team Grayson! He can be a right bastard! But the fact that you get to see his thoughts on things softens him around the edges. You know that he isn't happy with the way he behaves. He has a lot of remorse over his actions and he does try to correct his behaviour a lot. I think if readers didn't see that, there would be a lot more for Team Ray! As far as his hotness is concerned, who doesn't love a confident man? Confidence and sense of humour are a sure fire fit for likeability and hotness!I think you are right; his acceptance of his mistakes is a very likeable attribute. You've brought us nicely onto Ray........so similar to Gray yet so different. I struggled throughout Goodbye Caution flitting between rooting for Ray, and not. Have you had that response a lot?Yes I have. Ray is a great character and swoon worthy in his own right. He's not as abrasive as Grayson but you can tell he's a man's man! He's got that rugged charm and great sense of humour. He's calmer than Gray is. I, of course, happen to love them both. The readers will learn a lot more about Ray in the next two books and I think everyone in general will be on the fence once again!People cant wait for Book 2, the very title Goodbye Secrets hints that lots of questions will be answered! Can you tell people a little about your writing process? Do you pre-plan your books or did the idea come to you in dribs and drabs?I think a little bit of both now that I have quite a few under my belt (not all published yet). For The Lost & Found Series, I had the idea that I mentioned and it just took over from there. Most of the time, that's how it is. The different paths my characters lead me down always surprise me. Though I get ideas for books, I just jot the idea down. I'm not one who outlines the story because I never know where the story is actually going to lead me. I do jot down conversations that happen between characters that are not necessarily happening at the part of the book I'm writing. It will usually get weaved in later when it's appropriate. Fun Fact, by the way, this series was not only hand written but it was written as one entire book! lol. I typed it all up and said....uhh...no! This is three books, not one. It could've been stretched to 4 or 5 due to the size of the first two, but I didn't want to drag it out for people. Hand written? In one huge book? Thats so funny! You must have been engrossed in the story!! It’s no secret that the series deals with aggressive characters and spousal abuse and the fact that some of the proceeds are donated to a charity to help abused women and children shows it’s a subject you feel strongly about. Can you tell us a little about why you went in this direction and how you do your research?Yes! It took up residence in several notebooks that I carried around with me EVERYWHERE! Engrossed is an understatement! I lived, breathed, and slept this story. As far as some of the elements in this book regarding abuse, yes it is something that I do feel strongly about. Most of us, I think, can relate to Becca's character whether we have been the subject of one's abuse or have witnessed a loved one go through it. I knew that when I was creating Becca's character that she would have survived an abusive relationship. However, being a student of psychology and knowing several different people with various shades of abuse in their background, I wanted to take her character to a different level. What readers need to understand about Becca is that she never gained the strength to walk away (or run) from her abusive husband. She was pulled out of that situation by the powers that be, if you will. So, in return, her psyche is very different than that of a person who did walk away. Though she's kept her distance from other possible relationships, she never really "unlearned" the behaviour patterns of an abused woman. That is why we see her fall so easily into an obsequious roll. The great thing about Becca, though, is that she does grow through out the series and we all see this when she questions her own reactions to Grayson's temperament. Then she starts putting her foot down. Like I said before, I was surprised as to how many people fell in love with Grayson, but just like Becca, everyone can see that he really isn't mean spirited. His insecurities tend to get in the way of his judgement. I think people will enjoy learning more about Grayson and the reasons behind his behaviour in book #2. And for your final question, it is also important to know that while I have personal knowledge of this sort of behaviour pattern, I've also confirmed it with a Licensed Social Worker (therapist) who has worked with abused women for over thirty years. Though my book is fiction, I would never write about such a sensitive topic without any knowledge or proper research. And yes, a portion of my proceeds goes to Emily's Place which is a local shelter, near my town, that is run by YWCA.org. If you would like to donate the YWCA or see how you can help by volunteering, please go to their website to see how you can help! Obviously being careful of spoilers can you tell us what type of scene you enjoy writing the most??I love writing from the male POV. Some authors have a difficult time doing it but I find it very freeing and fun. It's boring to act like a "lady" all of the time. But you asked about what type of scenes. I love writing the heart to heart scenes when you really get to the bottom of things. That's when a character truly shines for me!If you absolutely had to, would you be team Grayson or Ray? You HAVE to.......OMG . . . I really can't! You can't make me! I love them both too much!LOL Ok I won’t make you......What have you got in store for your readers?I'm so excited about this year! There are so many things happening that will be leading right into 2015! Right now I am in the middle of finishing off my novella for The Southern Seduction box set that 12 of us Indie Romance Author Chicks are collaborating on. Very excited for that! We will be releasing that on April 14, 2014. Roughly around the same time, I will be releasing the last instalment of The Lost & Found Series. However, I think we will hear from Becca again in a prequel as the requests are already coming in. In June, I will be introducing my newest series to everyone called The GEG series. These will all be standalones based around 5 best girlfriends (2 being sisters). Each book will focus on one of the friends but still have the others intertwined. As with my other books, I touch upon a subject that causes great grief in the first instalment, but it's not a dark read like Caution and Secrets can be at times. So far "Under Contract", which is the first book based on Mitch and Charlotte, has been the most fun to write! It's really got a lot of obnoxiously, in-your-face, laugh-out-loud moments (well, to me! lol). These characters were so funny to write. It was really great to step into a lighter story after The Lost & Found Series. I am currently working on "In the Mix", the 2nd book. Other than that, I have been enjoying being a part of an amazing group of indie authors called Indie Romance Author Chicks. We started out as a small sprinting group, cheering each other on. Helping one another to stay positive. It's grown nicely and we continue to keep that positive attitude and try to send those vibes out to others. Speaking of sending things out.... we are formulating a plan to send all or most of us to one fabulous location in 2015 for our first IRAC signing event! We're all very excited about this! Stay tuned!Oh that will be amazing, any chance it could be my side of the pond??  I only wish!!!Well chatting has been an absolute pleasure. The novella sounds exciting and I can’t wait for Goodbye Uncertainty and the GEG series. Claire, I'd like to thank you for all of these wonderful questions. I really enjoyed myself and appreciate you taking the time! Thank You!
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Published on February 23, 2014 21:00

February 21, 2014

Review His Secrets (Inside Out #3.1) by Lisa Renee Jones

"His Secrets" 18711026 Author: Lisa Renee Jones
Genre: Erotic Romance
Pages: 60
Source: Netgalley
Published: February 24, 2013
Author's Website



Goodreads Blurb:
 An Inside Out story, Chris's POV

In a world where my only escape has been my art, Sara has been the light in my darkness. And there is darkness, the kind of inky black that can bleed from my life to hers.
She doesn't see it. She doesn't understand what I've shown her. And my biggest fear is that soon...she will.
My Review:
It was fantastic to be inside Chris' head for a change! His Secrets is a short, satisfying look at what it's like through Chris's eyes that we all know from the start we were all sitting there with those first few books in our hands thinking to ourselves "what IS he thinking?"
This is the fourth book I've read from the Inside Out series (yes, I missed a few in-between), but regardless of that. It's a fantastic read that many fans of the series and fans of the genre will enjoy. I DO suggest reading the series from the beginning so you have a better understanding of what's going on inside this hot alpha males head ;)
Now we know!




Overall Rating:


 Sex Rating: 






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Published on February 21, 2014 21:00

Stranded with a Billionaire Anthology interview!



Good day Ladies and Gentlemen and Welcome to the Stranded with a BillionaireAnthology interview!
We will be speaking with the six ladies who each wrote a story for the anthology and getting to know a little about them.
Joining us is:

Siobhan MacKenzie
Seraphina Donavan
Leanore Elliott

Nikki Prince
Brandi Gillilan

Kate Baum

Now that we know our lovely authors, let’s get started shall we?

Q. What is the title of your Anthology?
Siobhan: FallingSeraphina: Wrong for Ms. WrightLeanore: Lucky BreakBrandi: Let It SnowKate: Rich Girl
Nikki: Snowed In

Q. Would you give a brief summary?
Seraphina: This is really about finding yourself in a situation, with people you wouldn’t normally associate with, where money can’t get you out of it.
Siobhan: Alexander St. Thomas is involved in a watery plane crash off the coast of Alaska, forcing him to find his own way to safety with the only other survivor, pilot Grace Allyn. They will brave the water, the storm, and the elements to keep each other safe – and maybe find that there’s a little attraction in the mix.
Brandi: Having worked herself into exhaustion, Natalia gets taken into the mountains for rest by her former friend Jace. He’s still in love with her and doesn’t realize she feels the same. A massive snowstorm traps them in the cabin and when the power goes out they have to be very close for warmth.
Kate: Raisa Hughes is the daughter of one of the most powerful billionaires in the world.  As his only child, she has been groomed from a young age to take over his empire.  Nicknamed the “iceberg” by her school mates, she finds she doesn’t care that others perceive her as cold and aloof.  She has learned early on to mask her emotions to learn to survive in a world dominated by powerful men.  She’s always in control.  One winter night her car breaks down on a deserted rural road.  Raisa finds herself stranded.  For the first time in her life, she feels helpless.  Then a mechanic drives by and sees her standing next to her disabled vehicle.  Raisa never lets herself appear powerless…until she locks eyes with Trent.  He just had to be the most stunning sexy man ever to assist a woman on the side of the road.   Raisa finds erotic urges that she never knew were there…and that she doesn’t mind being rescued after all. 
Nikki: My heroine and hero are an estranged married couple who are billionaires. They are both stranded at their cabin and forced to work out their issues.
Leanore: Val is an average girl, although she can’t seem to keep anything…A job, home or a relationship.—Tucker is a billionaire, although he wishes he was an average guy. Fate deems that they meet and the adventure begins, as they both get stranded in a Semi-Trailer, going 75 miles an hour down the interstate.
Q. What inspired this story?   
Seraphina: I wish I knew. I just had this idea, and thought how neat. Then I got other people involved and it just snowballed from there.
Leanore: When the theme was suggested? I envisioned a woman delivering a message to a man who’s stepping out of a Limo, just as a semi truck tries to run them over.
Nikki: I was asked to write a story with a billionaire that was stranded somewhere and his or her money couldn’t get them out of being stranded.
Brandi: The theme was inspiring. Trapping a billionaire and getting them to realize there are more important things than money and work got several ideas going for me. As well as the song Let It Snow.
Kate: I wrote this novella to follow my Girl series.  I’m finding I’m enjoying my characters so much, I keep writing additional stories so I can keep interacting with them.

Q. What is one habit you feel you must do while writing? Have a certain snack, music, etc.
Brandi: I have to listen to music, lately it’s a playlist of Glee music. I also have to have either tea, Coca-cola or Dr. Pepper and if possible candy.
Kate: Take lots of breaks.
Leanore: COFFEE!
Siobhan: I have to set my writing space and get my head in the game. Sometimes I need quiet; sometimes I need music. Sometimes I can only write with an outline; sometimes I have to wing it. But the one thing I always do first is set my space. Once I’ve done that, I never vary that routine until the work is done.
Seraphina: Have a certain snack, music, etc. I always have a playlist. I spend hours building a playlist on ITunes before I write the first word.
Nikki: I always multitask. I listen to the TV or radio and get into my happy place and write wherever I am.  This enables me to be able to write anywhere because I can deal with noise.
Q. What is the hardest part of writing a book?

Leanore: Editing…lol
Siobhan: Starting! Deciding where in the story is the right place. Deciding what the first sentence is. And then, getting myself the kick in the butt to sit down and get moving on it. I’m a great procrastinator and I have to work hard to overcome that.
Kate: Since I work full-time as a librarian the hardest part about writing for me is finding the time!
Brandi: For me it’s the start because I take forever to figure out what should start off the story and the end because I hate to end a story.
Seraphina: Writing a book is easy, getting out there, promoting it so that people will read the story you’ve worked so hard to tell... that’s the hard part.
Nikki: For me it’s stopping all the other stories that pop into my head while I’m writing on the current.
Q. How do you prepare to write a story? Do you make lists and outlines or do you wing it or something in between?
Kate: I do something I think it is kind of add.  I dream about my characters before I write about them.
Nikki: I fly by the seat of my pants…so yeah I basically wing it.
Leanore: I get an image…Then, I write. I am a Panster by visual means.
Siobhan: I set my space, set up what my routine is going to be. I tend to like to just start and let it run. Usually, after a chapter or two, I can find my ending from what I have. After that, I treat it like a road trip and I set up “my map” by writing my plot points on sticky notes (a writer’s best friend, sticky notes). The rest is writing about “the trip.”
Seraphina: I wing it. Sometimes if I get stuck, I’ll go back and outline, but generally, and especially for short stories, I just start writing.
Brandi: I wing it. I have tried outlines but they feel to restraining. All I need is a short summary of what idea I’m using and character profiles.

Q. What is next on your list?
Siobhan: My next work to be published will be another four Rick and Dave stories from the His Man… series. I’ll also have a new novel coming out, Wilde Mountain Time. I’ll be finishing No Sooner Loved and starting on the sequel to that, A Pair of Stairs. And I have two other books to finish – Her Scottish Exile and the other two books in that trilogy. After that, the sky’s the limit.
Seraphina: Oh, it’s endless. Another anthology. A full length novel to finish up the DuChamps’ Dynasty Series. I’m going to write a novel for Ronan, a supporting character in the Casanova series. I have a paranormal/romantic adventure tail in the works. I’m insane.
Brandi: I’m working on another anthology with some authors, a few from this book and a few different. It will be called Hot Soldiers. I also have a paranormal romance in the works called Eye of the Tiger. And anything else that pops into my head.
Leanore: Hot Soldier Antho with 6 other authors, Nowhere Arizona, Book Three…Then Hammered Velvet, Book 4 in the Velvet Series
Nikki: Too many things to mention truly, I try to stay busy and if the muse is busy…that means I am constantly writing.
Kate: So far, I have six books planned for the Girl series.  I just finished book three.
Q. Did you have fun writing with your fellow authors?
Seraphina: I loved it. Writing is so often a solitary process. Getting to work with others was amazing.
Brandi: I did. This was my first anthology and they were all very helpful with any questions I asked.
Siobhan: I do, I really do. I like sharing experiences but I like the interaction I get from my fellow authors. We all excel in something and collaborations show off what each of us excels in. And finding out how we complement each other in the doing.
Kate: I am so fortunate to belong to the wicked women authors’ facebook group started by Leanore Elliott.  I’m inspired, supported and I laugh every day.
Leanore: Hell yeah! I got to read the entire antho first, due to being its Editor and Formatter.
Nikki: I love the group in this anthology.  So yes, I had fun.
Q. Is there anything we should know about you?
Siobhan: Other than being a terrible procrastinator, a hopeful romantic, and an all around poetic mess? Can’t think of a thing.
Seraphina: I need a vacation. And chocolate, and until I get one of those two things, I could be dangerous.
Kate: I love my secret life.  Nerdy librarian by day and naughty writer at night. 
Brandi: I’m currently in college for Game Design. Also I’m an anime and manga junkie.
Nikki: I am a gamer.  Yep for quite some years I played World of Warcraft religiously! Hehe.
Leanore: I’m Wicked Leanore with 20 books and a Book production Company called, Wicked Muse Productions, we do Covers, Trailers, Editing, Formats & Conversion
Q. How long have you been writing?
Siobhan: Sometimes it feels as if I’ve been writing all my life. I guess I have. Now, ask me how long I’ve been publishing and that’s a different answer.
Seraphina: I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t writing, but I’ve only been published since 2011.
Brandi: Since I can remember. I have always been a writer.
Leanore: Since I was 8 years old.
Kate: I finished my first book in December of 2012.
Nikki: I’ve been writing off and on since the age of 12.
Q. What got you interested in writing?
Siobhan: I got tired of reading other authors’ work and wanted to write my own, where I could live out my own fantasies and romances.                                                      Leanore: My vivid imagination needed an outlet, cause I kept getting into trouble with it, as a child.
Seraphina: I’ve just always been a storyteller. It’s part of my Appalachian heritage, I think.
Brandi: Figuring out that I could make up a story and have anything I wanted happen.
Kate: As a librarian, I read a lot.  I’ve always thought about writing but never got that push to start.  Reading erotic romance finally did it for me.  It made me excited about the genre and anxious to write my own fantasies into stories.
Nikki: I started reading romances at the age of 12 and after my first romance I knew I wanted to write too.
Q. Is there anyone that’s close to you that’s really supportive, always been there when you wanted to quit but kept you going?
Seraphina: She’s no longer physically here with me, but I think about my mother. She was, in a word, indomitable. I strive in many ways to be like her, and so when I feel down or disheartened, I just keep pushing because that’s what she always did.
Siobhan: My Beautiful Man, the love of my life. He never lets me give up on myself, never lets me give up on the stories. He reads everything, gives great feedback, and helps me practice those love making scenes. He is my rock and my cheerleader, and I love him for it.
Brandi: My Mama and two of my sisters. They told me to go for it and if I failed try again but don’t give up.
Kate: I wasn’t sure if I was going to ever write book two of my series.  I wrote book one and waited to see the fallout.  Then I received an email from a blogger for riverina romantics blog, Tina.  She gushed about my story and gave me the motivation to start on book two. 
Nikki: I have a few author friends who have cheered me on in those moments as well as some close friends.
Leanore: Yes, Lea Ellen Borg…Now an Editor. Met her at Amazon threads years ago when she was just a reader and we are BFF’s. Then, there’s Ava ( A.R. Von) Chasity Bowlin, Sheri Fredricks, & my biggest supporter for years…Nikki McCarver of The very popular Close Encounters Blog.
Q. What is something you want to do? Like bungee jump, skydive, scuba dive, rock climb, etc .
Siobhan: I would love to live in London, England for a time. Somewhere in the West End, near the theater district. I want to see all of the sights and sounds of London, and see the shows there. Maybe some traveling to Scotland and Ireland
Leanore: No, I’ve already done a lot. I just want to keep living my dreams in books, and helping Newbies achieve authorhood.
Seraphina: I want to rip Henry Cavill’s clothes off, dip him in honey and lick him clean.
Brandi: I would enjoy being able to visit a few places like Ireland and England. I would also love to see some plays like Wicked.
Kate: With five children and two in college, I just hope to have enough money to be able to travel one day. 

Q. Any guilty pleasures?
Nikki: Cheesecake…mmm New York Style and I’m in heaven.
Leanore: Chocolate and Sex—preferably, both at the same time…
Siobhan: Too many to count – but let’s just say, I’m a sucker for sappy movies and naked pretty boys.
Kate: Coffee and cookies.  Seriously, who doesn’t like that combination?
Seraphina: Chocolate. Henry Cavill.
Brandi: Glee. I started watching it last fall and became addicted. Also I am addicted to lemon candy, it’s sour and sweet which makes it right up there with chocolate.
Q. Is there anyone famous you’d love to meet?
Siobhan: Tom Hiddleston. Nathan Fillion. Orlando Bloom. Diana Gabaldon.
Brandi: Plenty lol. A few would be Christ Colfer, Darren Criss, Chris Hemsworth, Alan Rickman, Mark Harmon, Micheal Weatherly just to name a few.
Seraphina: Henry Cavill. I know. Broken record.
Leanore: Tom Hanks.
Kate: I am very impressed with the goals of Elizabeth Warren, senator for Massachusetts.  She is a true advocate for the middle class.
Nikki: Hmm…since I write romance there are tons of people I’d like to meet…I’ll give you a few:  Bertrice Small, Oded Fehr, Norman Reedus, Andrew Lincoln, Vin Diesel…whew…so many more.

Q. What is a pet peeve of yours?
Siobhan: I can’t stand people chewing gum and cracking it. Close your mouth and chew it quietly.
Seraphina: Henry Cavill’s girlfriend? Seriously, different things bug me at different times. I get annoyed when people assume that writing isn’t a job just because it doesn’t have regular hours that you don’t have to do it when you say you have to do it. I.E. “I’m writing now.”--me. “Well you can finish that later. Let’s go do (fill in blank)”.--Everyone I know.
Brandi: People feeling they are entitled to things they aren’t, that they don’t have to work for anything and should have it given to them on a silver platter. I know a few people like this and it drives me crazy with how they treat their family and expect to be waited on hand and foot.
Kate: Bullies.
Nikki: I hate being late. I’m always early.
Leanore: In the house? Clean floors and counters.
Q. What is a pet peeve you see in writing that bothers you?
Siobhan: I understand the importance of an editor but at least learn how to spell, learn the correct rules of grammar, and apply that knowledge for yourself. To depend solely on an editor to do it for you is flat out lazy
Seraphina: I don’t like overly flowery prose in erotica. It’s erotica. If you’re thinking up that many big words then the blood is flowing in the wrong direction!
Nikki: I hate characters who whine incessantly
Brandi: Too much or too little detail. A story can be bogged down with too much detail. I don’t need the same bookshelf described five different times in the same chapter. But I do want to know what the décor of a room is and if there isn’t enough detail then a reader can’t get a fully clear image in their mind.
Kate: When other authors turn up their nose at erotic romance alluding to the idea that it’s trashy just because there are sexual scenes. 
Leanore: THAT? Is too big a list as I edit Pro…lol However, I have a saying: A Reader Cannot Read Your Mind—Only Your Words.
Q. What is your go-to song?
Siobhan: Depends on what I need a go-to song for. For sex scenes, Closer by Nine Inch Nails. For fight scenes, Walk by the Foo Fighters. To just get through a crappy day, I’ve Got a Dream by Jim Croce
Kate: “Holding out for a hero”
Seraphina: Different ones for different things, but right now, I’ve been listening to a lot of Justin Timberlake. It’s the energy factor.
Brandi: It’s hard to pick just one so a few are Teenage Dream, Blackbird, Baby It’s Cold Outside, Defying Gravity, Dog Days, I Want To Hold Your Hand or any song done on the Glee series.
Nikki: Right now I’m in the mood for 80’s songs.
Leanore: So many…Firework for inspiration and Symphony Of Life.
Q. Most romantic song?
Siobhan: Like the Sun by RyanDan
Seraphina: To Make You Feel My Love.
Kate: Elvis Presley “Falling in love with you.”
Leanore: And Love Said No…By H.I.M.
Brandi: It’s a tie between Last Kiss sung by Pearl Jam and Crash My Party sung by Luke Bryan. Last Kiss is of regrets of a love ended to soon and hopes to be able to reunite in death and Crash My Party is about crushes and newfound love.
Nikki: God…lol so many but right now I am in love with an oldie from Bon Jovi called Always.

Q. Favorite movie?
Siobhan: Today? Thor and Thor: The Dark World
Seraphina: Man of Steel. Yes, I know. There is a restraining order in the works.
Brandi: The Harry Potter series, Narnia movies, Lord of the Rings or really most Fantasy and Sci-fi
Kate: Thelma and Louise    
Leanore: Forrest Gump
Nikki: Yikes another too many …but here are some of them: Grease, Independence Day, Sound of Music, Jurassic Park, Bride before Prejudice, 9 ½ Weeks.

Q. Are there any genre of books you don’t like to read?
Siobhan: Not big on non-fiction, but mostly I’m not into shlock – anything that’s bad gratuitous. Anything that the author put out there without perfecting the work. Again, laziness and a lack of respect for the reader. And I’m rather vampired out, thanks to Twilight, but that’s changing. Oh, and I don’t do zombies or horror.
Seraphina: It isn’t a genre thing, but I don’t like to read books written in the first person. I want to be told a story, I don’t want to be in the story, and when I’m reading “I this” and “I that”, it kind of kills it for me.
Brandi: I’m not big on any non-fiction books like biographies or memoirs. I also don’t care to read extremely religious books.
Kate: As a librarian, I obviously love to read and appreciate all genres.  I have a hard time getting into poetry and wish I didn’t have to admit that. 
Nikki: Chick Lit…which is kinda funny but true. LOL
Leanore: Male on Male…Not because it’s gay, but I can’t ever get past the fact that some woman is suffering out there, because some package of hot male, will never be available for her. Lol Like oh man, WE females lose out.


If anyone would like to purchase Stranded With A Billionaire You can find it on  AMAZONIt's currently $.99

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Published on February 21, 2014 21:00

February 19, 2014

WILD by Adriane Leigh ♥ POST RELEASE BOOK BLITZ

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webgoodreads Title: Wild (Wild #1)Author: Adriane LeighRelease Date: December 11, 2013Genre: Erotic Romance add-to-goodreads-button31  
SynopsisAn independent woman, a controlling man, and one wild one-night stand…Kat Kennedy moved to the rugged coast of Maine to start a new life, but encountered much more than she bargained for in dark, dangerous, and seductive Lane Wild. Desire and temptation smolder before she succumbs to her darkest fantasies with the captivating stranger. She doesn't expect to see him again after an explosive one-night stand leaves her breathless and craving more, but just like lightning in the darkness, he shows up in her life at the most unpredictable moments. A sensual game of cat and mouse ensues before the attraction between them reaches a fever pitch—the magnetism combustible, the sexual tension nearly unbearable—and Kat finally abandons inhibition and explores the cunning, selfish, and sexual side of a world she's never known. They have the perfect non-relationship—passion-fueled nights with no strings attached—until life gets real and the past and present collide in a dangerous storm of lust and obsession
Buy the BookAmazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble 
Coming SoonRidge (Wild #2)Expected Release Date: March 3, 2014 webridge add-to-goodreads-button31 Sometimes doing the wrong thing feels so right...I'm a player. I'm an asshole. I'm someone you should stay away from. I have demons.I've made mistakes.And the biggest can't be taken back. I've gone to hell and back in twenty-nine years and I'm only now coming to terms with moving forward, righting my wrongs, and making amends. Except not everyone deserves forgiveness. Sometimes the damage done is beyond repair.Everyday is exactly the same. I focus on the pain, in the quest to feel and forget, but I remember everything. When I close my eyes the darkness encroaches and some days it feels like the things that kill me are the things that make me feel alive.  
About the Author Adriane Leigh Adriane Leigh was born and raised in a snowbank in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and now lives amongst the sand dunes of the Lake Michigan lakeshore. She graduated with a Literature degree but never particularly enjoyed reading Shakespeare or Chaucer. Adriane is married to a tall, dark and handsome guy, plays mama to two sweet baby girls, and is a voracious reader and knitter.
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Published on February 19, 2014 21:00

February 17, 2014

Finding Us by Harper Bentley Cover Reveal

Finding Us Cover    add-to-goodreads-button31 Synopsis


Jag Jensen and Ellen Love had been best friends their whole lives until he turned thirteen and started noticing girls his own age, but that didn’t mean he stopped watching out for eleven-year-old Ellen. By his senior year in high school, baseball had taken the front seat in his life, with a scholarship to college and a pro career looming on the horizon, when sophomore Ellen caught his attention and they struck up their friendship again. Although Ellen wanted more, Jag didn’t want to drag her into what he knew would be a crazy life, but love has a way of deciding one’s future, and eventually they became a couple. Ellen followed him to California as he began his pro career, but his wild and hectic lifestyle screwed everything up. Now Jag is lost, realizing he’s never been without his best friend in his life. Learning to live without Ellen doesn’t settle well with him, so while trying to remain at the top of his career, he also wants to get his girl back, which proves to be more difficult than he thought it’d be. Will Ellen give him another chance or does that sort of thing only happen in the sappy romance novels she always used to read? Jag hopes she’s willing to try again as he puts his heart on the line for the woman he knows will always be his forever and a day.
Teaser Quote1 Quote4 Excerpt My name is Jagger Jensen, I’m twenty-seven, should be in the best place in my life as a star pitcher for the Dodgers, making a mint for every ball I throw, yet I can’t get my head in the right place because of all that’s happened with my girl over the past couple years which is why she’s not here with me now.To say I screwed up royally with her would be an understatement, but it’s damned near as close as I can get to telling the truth. The love of my life walked out on me because I’m an asshole. MeetTheAuthor FACEBOOK - GOODREADS - BLOGHarper Bentley has taught high school English for 21 years. Although she’s managed to maintain her sanity regardless of her career choice, jumping into the world of publishing her own books goes to show that she might be closer to the ledge than was previously thought.After traveling the nation in her younger years as a military brat, having lived in Alaska, Washington State and California, she now resides in Oklahoma with her teenage daughter, two dogs and one cat, happily writing stories that she hopes her readers will enjoy. 
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Published on February 17, 2014 21:30

Flashes of Me tour

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Blurb:
Henley, the head of cyber security at Blaine Technologies, is a man no one crosses. He watches employees constantly using his network of cameras and enforces his rules by any means possible. Rumors of his violent past, his scarred hands and huge size have resulted in him being feared by everyone… almost everyone.

Katalina, the new intern, worries about the revelation of her most painful secret much more than she fears her sexy boss’s wrath. She sees the loneliness in his dark eyes, feels the gentleness in his marred fingers, tastes the need in his kisses, and she knows he watches her. His silly rules about not stripping for the cameras and no sex at the office are destined to be broken.

Kat likes to be watched. Henley can’t look away. Will this beauty be able to tame her beastly boss?
Buy LinksAmazon: http://www.amazon.com/Flashes-Me-Novella-Cynthia-Sax-ebook/dp/B00F2I2GXOARe:   https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-flashesofme-1411711-149.htmlB&N:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/flashes-of-me-cynthia-sax/1117322925

Excerpt:
No one in this coffee shop knows who I am. I stand in the line, waiting to place my order. They don’t know about my past. They don’t know my last name. I tap my lavender heels against the floor, drumming an up-tempo tune into the tan-colored tile. They won’t remind me why I shouldn’t be happy.
I need to be happy. I need to laugh, to have fun, to focus on this fresh start. If I don’t, I’ll cry, and I promised my father I wouldn’t cry. I plaster a silly smile across my face and I tap my heels harder against the floor. These two actions lighten my mood, allowing me to cope with my emotions.
The bleary-eyed woman swaying in front of me yawns, adding vocals to my beat. For LA locals, it’s six in the morning. For a recently displaced New York native such as myself, it feels like nine o’clock. I’m eager to start my new job and my new life on the West Coast.
I’m two hours early. The internship orientation session at Blaine Technologies is scheduled for eight o’clock sharp, not one minute before and not one minute after. Although caffeine is the last thing I need, standing in line at this coffee shop gives me something to do and someone to watch.
I slide my gaze to the fascinating someone waiting at the front counter. The biggest man I’ve ever seen in my entire life looms over the cash register, his feet braced apart as though he’s preparing for battle. His ebony hair is cropped close to his head, hiding nothing, and he’s dressed completely in black like a villain from a 1970s spy movie.
I survey my behemoth’s broad shoulders. It’s all him under his jacket, not a hint of padding disturbing the cut. His suit is bespoke, custom made especially for his big body, and I suspect the designer was English. My mystery man is wearing Barker Blacks, his leather shoes as large as the rest of him. Even his matching dress shirt is well made, the collar and cuffs stiff and crisp.
He glances over his right shoulder, meets my gaze, and I inhale sharply. His eyes are as dark as his ensemble, his nose flattened and his chin square. Everything about him screams power, strength, vitality, and the woman in me responds, my nipples tightening, my breasts pressing against the blazer of my favorite lavender suit.
My behemoth returns his gaze to the frazzled barista and I exhale, my head spinning. It has been years since I’ve allowed myself to notice a man, to think about what I want, what I need. My fingers tremble as I smooth my flared skirt. I want this stranger desperately, more than I’ve ever wanted anyone in my life.
This is a problem, as I have no idea how to snag his attention. My last date took place when I was seventeen, and I suspect flashing my breasts at a pep rally won’t land me this sophisticated man. I chew on the inside of my cheek, having no other clever ideas.
I ponder my next steps, and my stranger moves away from the front counter, clasping a cup of coffee with his thick fingers. He ordered plain black coffee, no cream, no sugar, no whipped cream, and hell no to the chocolate sprinkles. My father likes his coffee the same way.
My mystery man stops at the lid and stir stick island and a stout man wearing mismatched jacket and pants rushes to the counter, barking his order at the disheveled barista. The rest of us shuffle forward in line. The tall skinny brunette behind me pleads into her sparkly pink phone, begging her boyfriend to give her one more chance. She’ll be the girl he needs, she promises. She’ll lose those last five pounds.
I don’t know where she’ll lose those five pounds. She’s already as thin as a yard of fine silk ribbon. I look down at my more ample bosom, my breasts wrapped snugly in the blazer.
“No, please.” The brunette sobs. “Derek! Derek!” She glances at her phone’s small screen and her face crumples. My heart aches for her. She doesn’t know how to hide her sorrow, not like I do. I can help her with this.
I touch the girl’s bare arm, diverting her attention away from her phone. “Who did your pedicure?” I feign an interest in her perfect pink toes. Although her beige sandals are adorably strappy, my goal is to distract her from her grief. “I have to know,” I insist.
The brunette wipes away her tears with the back of her hand. “I—I—I—”
I glance around us fervently as though I’m afraid someone will overhear us. The behemoth is watching me, his dark eyes glinting with intelligence. Some people think big men are dumb. Some people also think blond women are stupid and no one should wear pink at a funeral. I learned long ago to ignore some people.
“Look at what happened to me on the flight here.” I slip my right foot out of my lavender pumps and wiggle my big toe. A huge chip of coral polish has flaked off, revealing raw nail. “I rushed for a flight, banged into a baggage cart, and that was it. My pedicure was ruined.”
The brunette’s red-rimmed eyes widen. “That’s terrible.”
“It’s a disaster.” I ignore the behemoth’s shaking shoulders. He doesn’t understand. My mystery man has the strength to deal with loss directly. He doesn’t need to pretend, to use trivial distractions as a means to cope. He would never travel across an entire country seeking to escape his sadness.
“I’m in a strange city,” I explain. “I have so many cute sandals and I can’t wear them.” I shove my foot back into my shoe, hiding the offending toe.
As we exchange information and bad salon stories, the behemoth leaves. I watch his broad shoulders disappear into the LA sunshine and feel as though I’ve lost a piece of my soul, a part of my future.
Bio:
Cynthia Sax lives in a world where demons aren’t all bad, angels aren’t all good, and magic happens every single day. Although her heroes may not always say, “I love you”, they will do anything for the women they love. They live passionately. They fight fiercely. They love the same women forever.

Cynthia has loved the same wonderful man forever. Her supportive hubby offers himself up to the joys and pains of research, while they travel the world together, meeting fascinating people and finding inspiration in exotic places such as Istanbul, Bali, and Chicago.
Author Website: http://cynthiasax.com/Blog: http://tasteofcyn.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cynthia.sax Twitter: @CynthiaSax
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Published on February 17, 2014 21:00