Teaser from CHASING GINGER, a work in progress…

Recently, I’ve been working on something that is a little different from what I usually write. Chasing Ginger is a BBW romantic comedy, as well as book one of The Misfits Series. I am eager to share this snippet with you. In the post, I’ve included some character pictures (Colin Egglesfield is the closest celebrity image I can compare Lance to, so just deal with his hotness…LOL).

Anyway, let’s bring on the romance, right? 😉

Here is the teaser:

A scream tore out of her as someone snagged at her hair, and she yanked away. The pull on her scalp was nothing compared to the panic she felt now. She doubled her efforts as she raced down the sidewalk, her feet pounding in her matching green heels.

Please, please, God. I’ll never use a dating site again if you just get me out of this right now.

A hand shot out, grabbing her arm, and she screamed again.

“Sweetheart, come on,” a male voice coaxed. “There’s no time.”

The voice was soothing. Ginger instantly calmed and found she was led up a set of brief stairs into a large building. Inside, she backed away from the glass a little, breathing a sigh of relief as she saw the group of men pass by.

By now, she could barely breathe and her forehead, upper chest and lower back were sweaty. Her feet and legs ached. She felt like she did at the gym, exhausted, practically passed out, draped over the handlebars of the treadmill. Her breaths hitched in her chest. And she really wasn’t kidding about the boob pain. She winced, passed a hand over her face, and then turned to confront the new threat.

He was a looker, for sure, with dark, spiky hair and really nice blue eyes. He had handsome features and somewhat full lips that were made to be kissed. Get ahold of yourself, Ginger. The man wore a gray business suit. He’d obviously just come from work. And Jesus, he was tall and muscled.

His eyes widened as he took in her appearance.

“Not you too,” she moaned. But hell, for all she knew, maybe he’d never seen a perspiring green marshmallow before.

“Are you all right? Why were those men chasing you?”

She nodded and managed, “I don’t know.”

Because she didn’t. They hadn’t warned that InstaSin would be like this. And it was only day one. Extreme sexiness? Check, if the response she’d received was any indication. Grounds for a restraining order? Nope. They certainly hadn’t covered that in the description of the drug.

“Well, you’re safe now. I think they’re gone.”

His eyes were kind, she decided. And he didn’t look like he was sizing her up for a kink room or a coffin at all. Maybe InstaSin wasn’t supposed to work on every male. Duh, Ginger. If that was the case, there would really be a problem. Thank God. She could breathe a little better now.

“Thank you for the rescue,” she offered.

He smiled. “Anytime. Are you sure you’re okay?”

She nodded. “I think so. I…I mean, yeah. I’m good.”

“Honey, I’d be surprised if you were okay after that.”

“A little shaken at first.”

“Understandable.”

She detected a slight twang in his speech, and realized he was the consummate Southern gentleman. As the image of her as a Southern belle, trussed up in one of those huge, ruffled gowns, came to mind, she burst out laughing. Then she sobered as she caught his frown. “Ah…uh, sorry. Private joke.”

“I wish I knew the punchline.”

She couldn’t contain a smile, and knew she was blushing. The redhead’s curse. God, he was just too damned cute. Like one of those hot movie stars she couldn’t help fanning herself over. Maybe Henry Cavill? There was one fine man. And Chris Pratt wasn’t too bad either, at least in a rugged space cowboy kind of way. She cleared her throat.

“Right. I should let you get on with the rest of your evening.”

Yeah. First stop? Visiting her doctor friend, Laura Preston, whom she knew would still be at work this late. She wanted her take on that red pill. “I really appreciate your help. And you’re right. I should go.” She began to push open the swinging door.

“Wait.”

She tensed, then slowly turned back, measuring his steady gaze. He certainly didn’t look crazed, like those other men had been. “Yes?”

“Will you let me drive you home?”

 

“Oh. I…I’m not going home.”

“Then to the destination where you’re heading. Look, after what happened, I’m really worried about you. It’s not safe to be alone. And even if you insist, I’d rather make sure you got there in one piece.”

“Well, I suppose that would be all right.”

He nodded. “We can go out the back exit.” He reached in his suit pocket and used his cell phone. “Yeah, Frank? Pull the car in the parking garage, will you? We have a guest.” He nodded. “Thank you. See you in a few.” Then he pressed a button and shoved the phone back in his pocket.

Her eyebrows rose. Car? Guest? The man was speaking a different language. Maybe he’d just been talking to security or his valet, for all she knew.

“Come.” He offered his hand once more, this time waiting on her.

She glanced at it, considering. Geez, she was about to accept an offer from a complete stranger. This was what people warned you against. What if he was secretly a serial killer, or was a closet Dom or something? She shuddered. No way would she ever let someone Fifty Shades her to death.

“You can call me Lance. I promise you can trust me…ah, I don’t know your name, Miss.”

She nodded. “Maybe it’s better that way.”

A look of disappointment crossed his face. At least, that’s what she thought it was. “Very well. I respect your wishes. I’d still like to see you safely to your destination.”

“Okay. Thank you.”

“Of course.”

She took his hand then, knowing full well she was putting her life in his hands. But, there was something about him that made her trust him completely. It was his eyes, she thought. Everything in that gaze was genuine, full of concern for her circumstances. His grasp was firm, yet not harmful as he tugged her down the corridor to an elevator, pressing the button.

She glanced at him warily and he offered a reassuring smile.

“It’s all right. We’re just going down to the garage, where my driver is.”

“Oh.” She glanced at the elevator. It was a shiny gold, maybe made of brass or gold-plated. It couldn’t be real gold, right? But, it was still fancy. And he had a driver. How odd. Maybe he was an important man? She glanced down at his reddish brown dress shoes. Damn, were they Italian leather? More to cover the silence than anything, she ventured, “A driver, hmm? You must be special.” When the elevator dinged, they climbed in separately and she waited while he pressed ‘B’. The doors closed and the car shifted.

The man named Lance shook his head. “No, not really. I have my own company, nothing more.”

“So humble,” she murmured. “You realize that’s no small thing.”

“Perhaps. I try not to flaunt it as some people do.”

“That’s admirable really. I work for the owner of a company.” When she realized how stupid that sounded, she laughed and found herself blushing once more. “So foolish. I meant that I’m his assistant.” Little more than a secretary really, she didn’t add.

“Oh, well, that is important. A CEO is nothing without his assistant.”

She glanced away, nodding.

“That’s not what you want to do, though, is it?”

Ginger looked back at him. “I’m not sure what you mean.”

“I can see it in your eyes. You respect your boss, but he probably doesn’t treat you well or you’d be more content.”

She frowned.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to press.”

“No, he’s, ah…a good man.”

“But, you want more than that position?”

She shrugged. “I always wanted to sing.”

“On stage?”

Ginger didn’t answer.

“Why didn’t you?”

She shook her head. It wasn’t like she was going to tell him her dark truths, even though her shortcomings were obvious.

“Well, maybe it’s possible now,” he commented as if she hadn’t ignored his question.

“I wish that it was more than anything,” she murmured.

“Do you really?”

She avoided his gaze, pinning her eyes to the floor. It was marked in a black and white Harlequin pattern. God, she thought. It was pure marble. This really was a ritzy building. She hadn’t even paid much attention to where she’d ended up. He really was lowering himself to help her out.

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Random Teaser from Blood Instincts!

If you follow my work, then you know I published a paranormal romance/urban fantasy book called Second Nature in December of 2014. Well, the sequel is not done yet, but I randomly find myself working on book two of the Blood at First Sight Series. It is titled Blood Instincts. Here is a brief teaser to keep fans in the loop:

subbotina, 123RF Limited.

Again, the conviction that this “date” was a bad idea didn’t leave. It was too late to cancel, and what was more, he actually wanted to see her. She had a lovely face, somewhat exotic, with dark, shiny hair he wanted to touch. He’d bet her long waves were soft. Her skin too, he thought idly. And those eyes…she had dark brown eyes, almost black but not quite…eyes he wanted to gaze into as she climaxed under his hands.

Oliver shook himself with a reminder that he didn’t have to get involved with her to watch her. He’d go out with her tonight, but following her might be a better idea after all. Oliver finished dressing and went to the car he’d rented for the evening. He wanted to celebrate this woman in style, to really treat her right. When he realized how that sounded, he cursed. It was too late to change his plans now.

By six-thirty on the dot, he was standing at the door to her apartment. Clearly being a practical woman, he knew she’d appreciate punctuality. Absently, he ran a hand through his short hair, then looked down, saw the single rose in his hand and scowled. He couldn’t have made his intentions clearer if he’d tried. Myah was going to think he was interested, and not just for the short-term. Of course, it was possible that she didn’t know the meaning of flowers as he did, for a single red rose meant ‘life-long devotion and love’. His chest began to ache, and he attributed it to guilt. He didn’t want to use her, he realized, not for blood and not for her body. She deserved…more.

He took a deep breath, and then knocked. A few seconds later, the door swung open. He was still looking down at the bloom in his hand when he caught her scent. His nostrils flared, aware of the heady combination of jasmine and the sweet fluid in her veins.

“Oliver, is everything all right?”

“Yes, it’s…” His gaze swung back up to hers, but didn’t stop there. Oliver took her in like a man long deprived of water. Tonight, her hair had a fine sheen and was straight as if she’d ironed it. It fell straight down her back and she’d gone to a little more trouble with her makeup, yet she still appeared natural. She’d done something amazing around her eyes, however, and they really stood out. He wanted to drown in that gaze. How silly, he thought, but then got a look at the rest of her. Her silver earrings dangled down in a marquis pattern. Her neck and the top of her chest were somewhat exposed as she’d squeezed herself into a mid-thigh length black dress with thin straps. The dress was made of soft black lace, causing him to wonder if she wore matching panties as well. Her legs were athletic, but smooth, and he had to stifle the urge to drop to his knees and kiss all the way up her perfect thighs. Her small feet were strapped into shining black heels.

“Oliver, did you hear me? Are you okay?”

He cleared his throat, forcing his eyes back to her face. “Ah…I’m fine. My God, you look amazing.” His throat was incredibly dry, and he was aware of a thirst that not only had to do with her appearance but her life essence. He worked on suppressing the bloodlust.

The blush that moved across her cheekbones was charming. “Oh, thank you. You clean up well too, Mr. King.”

He smiled, then handed her the rose. “This pales in comparison to your beauty, but I wanted to give you something.”

“Oh, it’s lovely! How sweet.” She leaned down, inhaling, and as her nose got closer to the red rose, he thought she made quite the picture. Again, he wished to paint her; he would use the brush strokes to really capture who this woman was. When she looked back at him, there was a teasing light in her eyes.

“What?”

She shook her head. “Oh, it’s nothing.”

“Tell me,” he urged her.

“I wasn’t sure you were interested the other night or if you just felt bad for me and did it to appease your guilt.”

He shook his head. “I wouldn’t have asked if I wasn’t interested. I thought the diner was the way to try to make up for it, of course, but the more I saw you, the more I wanted to know.” He didn’t add that his foolish, impulsive side didn’t seem to want to listen to anything he told it. ‘No’ clearly wasn’t in its vocabulary.

That pretty blush returned to her face. “Ah…let me put this rose in a vase.”

“Sure.”

When she came back, she’d put on a black coat, closing the two buttons in the front as she got to the door.

“Do you have everything you need?”

She nodded.

“Great. Shall we?”

“Of course.” Myah locked up, and soon they’d left the apartment building. He led her to the sleek black car at the curb. “This is yours?”

He shook his head. “A rental. It is nice, but I don’t usually drive cars.”

“May I ask why?”

Oliver shrugged. “I just prefer walking, that’s all.”

She stared at him with a strange look on her face for a moment when he opened her door.

“Is there a problem?”

She shook her head and smiled. “Not at all. I am partial to walking as well. But, this car…it is very fine and appropriate for the evening.”

“That’s what I was going for.” Her cheek dimpled and he couldn’t resist leaning forward and pressing his lips against it. Her face was warm, incredibly soft beneath his mouth, and he had to move away before he did something really stupid. The surprised glance she sent him sealed the deal.

He had to go slowly with Myah. He sensed an unusual innocence about her, which only made his protective instincts fire even more. “My lady,” he murmured, gesturing to the open car door. He reached out and grasped her hand to give her some leverage as she climbed into the leather seat in those insane heels. Her quiet thank you was natural, and yet it made him feel like he could climb a mountain. He shook off the sensation, closed her door then rounded the car and got in.

 

Teaser from BLUE VISION, a work in progress…

Recently, I’ve been working on something that isn’t quite what I usually write. Blue Vision is a paranormal/sci-fi romance. In any case, it has been a blast to write and I can’t wait to share this snippet with all of you. Bring on the romance, right? Hmm…what should I choose to show you? This one should do just fine.

Here is the teaser:

The cold air practically cut through her pea coat now. Brooke shivered and just as she drew her coat tighter against her, she saw a sudden bright light in the sky. It streaked down, nearly at an angle, like a beam shooting down from the heavens. It was a bright green color and its descent was fast, too quick to discern the source. It went straight into the middle of the forest, then everything was dark once more. Just as she narrowed her eyes, straining to see better, the earth moved. She felt the tremor beneath her feet and at the railing under her grasp.

Thrown off balance, she fell back on her rump. After the initial shock wore off, she laughed, righting herself. Almost sure she had imagined the light, she suddenly saw a bright green glow coming from the woods to her right. Curious, she left the deck and entered the cabin once more.

She dialed Helen’s number using the landline in the kitchen, then sat down at the table there. “Yes, I’m calling from cabin 13. This might sound silly, but I think we just had an earthquake.” She paused for a moment. “You didn’t feel anything? But, I’m certain there was something. And the green light. No, of course I haven’t been drinking. I didn’t know there was any wine here.” She sighed. “Well, all right. Thank you.” She hung up, then stood, wrapping her arms around her trembling body. How could she be the only one who noticed it? “I know I didn’t imagine it.”

Brooke went to find a flashlight in one of the kitchen drawers and when she located one, she left the cabin, descending into the woods in the direction of the green glow. She was aware of it from a distance and as she trudged through the snow, scaling the slope of land, she thought she could hear a humming sound, almost mechanical. She pushed on, aware that her legs were quickly becoming numb and the wet snow was inching its way into her boots at a maddening rate. She pushed forwards, intent on finding the source of the light. Then everything went dark, including her flashlight.

She froze. A string of curses left her as she beat the infernal flashlight against her thigh. The battery rolled around in the chamber, but nothing else happened. There was complete darkness surrounding her. She strained to see the light that had been there just moments before, but to no avail. Nothing was there. And she couldn’t go further without seeing ahead of her. She didn’t want to stumble or injure herself if she headed back to the cabin. She certainly didn’t want to die on the ground in the forest in the middle of winter.

She shivered, pulling her coat tighter, but it did little to protect her from the icy cold. Suddenly the green light returned and it was just ahead. She pushed forward, trekking through the calf-deep snow in her awkward boots and short skirt. “Hello?”

As she neared the green ray of light, she saw a figure looming before her. It was shrouded in black. Startled, she screamed, tripping over her own feet. She landed face first in the snow. Coughing, she struggled and then eased back on her heels, trying to push herself up. She felt an arm around her, lifting her, assisting her. When she regained her footing, she whispered, “Thank you.”

But, there was no answer. She swung to see who it was, but no one was there. She turned back and saw the figure standing several feet away once more.

“I’m sorry to have startled you.”

Brooke laughed nervously. “I didn’t expect to see anyone else out here. No one believed me. But, I know what I saw. I came to see about the light.” Aware she was babbling and probably sounded like a loon, she clamped her mouth shut, crossing her arms over her chest.

“What…light?”

She frowned and pointed at the green beam of light just ahead, beyond the trees.

“You saw nothing.”

Her eyes narrowed. “What do you mean? It’s right there! Just look.”

He stepped closer to her, enough so that she could see his upper body and face. He was tall, his shoulders broad and his physique muscular, his shoulders wide like a football player. His hair was cropped short at his skull and dark brown. His eyes were so dark, practically black as he stared down at her. And there was a bluish tint to his skin. Her gaze widened as it traveled down. He was naked. Holy crap, he was really naked. Her breath caught at that discovery and her heart began to race wildly.

“You saw nothing,” he repeated, lifting her chin with one finger as he looked into her eyes.

She shivered, and then blinked. His eyes were electric blue now. Jesus, maybe she was losing her mind. People’s eyes didn’t shift color like that.

The Next Best Thing Blog Tour – My WIP

I want to thank Lois W. Stern for this neat marketing idea and to pass it along to all of you. Here is a way to help market yourself while helping your fellow authors.

The basic idea is to respond to ten questions  about something you’re currently writing or a book or story just published or to be published soon. Here are the rules:

1. Post your responses to the interview questions below on your own blog page.

2. Add my name and my book cover montage (image) to your blog page and link them both back to this page.

3. Send this blog to five or more other writers.

4. Each time you forward this message to someone, start with the “I want to thank  . . .” sentence as seen above, substituting her name, Lois W. Stern, for the one currently appearing in that first sentence.

5. Ask them to substitute your name for Lois W. Stern’s as they send out notices to their circle.

6 Tell them to post this same content on their website or blog, adding their book image and URL link, and to answer the questions below about their book.

7. Send her the URL of your completed blog page.

8. Lois W. Stern will add to her AUTHORS’ HALL OF FAME the first ten authors who complete the above instructions, post their interview questions/answers on their blog, and add her information to their AUTHORS’ HALL OF FAME linking her name and image to http://tales2inspire.com/?p=1617. E-mail her @ Tales2Inspire@optimum.net.

9. The writers you invite answer the questions; each one puts that blog up the week after yours goes up, and each one credits you as the inviter and includes a link to your blog.

10. They, in turn, tag five other writers, and the cycle continues.

* Substitute your URL and e-mail address for hers when you send this invitation to your circle. – See more at: http://tales2inspire.com/?p=1617#sthash.fXPMjhxT.dpuf

The posts follow a standard format.

THE QUESTIONS APPEAR BELOW, WITH MY ANSWERS.

Interview Questions for The Next Big Thing:

1. What is your working title of your book (or story)?

The title of my work in progress is Upon Your Love.

2. Where did the idea come from for these books?

Upon Your Love is part of the Heiresses in Love Series, a Victorian romance series with some suspense. Spurred from the first book, Upon Your Return, it all started with a woman who gets into a bit of trouble on the docks in La Rochelle, France. Hmm…my heroines in that series always seem to encounter trouble of one kind or another. The scene for the first book just came to me, and I didn’t question why Fara’s story had to be told. And I guess I’m still telling it, though each book is centered on a new set of characters. The ideas for the sequels came to me shortly after I received a contract for the first book. Suddenly, I knew the story wasn’t over, that other characters needed their say.

3. What genre do your books fall under?

Historical Romance.

4. Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?

In a way, this is tough for me because I’d want it to be perfect. Let’s see…I always liked the idea of Gerard Butler playing Captain Grant Hill, and maybe Isla Fisher or Amy Adams to play Fara Bellamont. They both have that elegant sensuality with a touch of fun. Also the red hair is perfect for the role. For the other characters in the series? Julianne Hough for Chloe Waverly and Simon Woods with dark auburn hair to play Gabriel Hill. For Fara’s parents? Jessica Stam would have to play Annabelle D’Aubigne for her bright blue eyes and red hair when she wears it that way. I think Brandon Routh would be a good bet as Andre Bellamont. For Eric Caron, I might choose Jeffrey Dean Morgan. Sara Carbonero would be a good fit for Claudette Giroux. For Elena Wyndham and Pierce Laroque? Maybe I would choose Ashley Benson and Michael Trevino. And finally, for Adrienne Hill and Christian du Plessis? I might pick Jessica Green and Eduardo Verastegui. Oh! Wow, I nearly forgot Marcel Armistead. For him, I would choose Ian Somerhalder.

5. What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?

The story is about the trials of love, and how each character faces them in one way or another.

6. Will your book(s) be self-published or represented by an agency?

I plan to submit this manuscript to Solstice Publishing, the Summer Solstice division.

7.  How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?

This book took me a year to write.

8. What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?

I’m not sure. I haven’t seen this technique used in other historical romances. Most usually focus on one couple. I did something completely different this time, and I included many interconnected stories in one book. The closest book I would compare it to would be J.R. Ward’s The King because she tends to have more than one story going at a time and you get to see all of the characters interacting, yet have their personal traumas. Although that book is a paranormal romance, not a historical.

9. Who or what inspired you to write this book?

My readers inspired me to write this book. I already knew Adrienne’s story needed to be told, but with the final book in the series, I wanted to answer questions readers had asked in reviews, comments on interviews and via social media. I wanted to show some of the things they might not have known about those characters not only by checking in on the characters from the previous books, but also introducing some new ones. I wanted to tell the stories that hadn’t been told yet.

Well, that it’s for now with regards to my work in progress, Upon Your Love, which is currently in edits now. The rest would be spoilers! Don’t forget to add at least 5 more authors to the network by tagging them on your blog. You can also use my blog by tagging https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/ or this specific post.

Below I have included the authors I am tagging along with a bio of each one plus their latest book.

Vicki-Ann Bush – http://vickiannbush.blogspot.com/

Author Bio

I was born in Queens N.Y. where I fell in love with writing during the 8th grade in Our lady of Victory catholic school in Floral Park. At the age of 14 my family moved to California. And with the huge change in my life, writing became a personal escape that was tucked away in a box. I composed my first book for children, Winslow Willow the Woodland Fairy. After much encouragement from my daughters, I started sending in submissions. The first company that responded positively was a small publishing house in Wisconsin, Salt of the Earth Press. I currently have another children book, The Queen of It. In addition, the YA novelette series…The Dusk Chronicles. This trilogy is available individually as ebooks and in paperback featuring all three books. Coming soon … the historical romance, The Garden of Two and a paranormal romance novella, The Fulfillment.

Celia Kennedy – http://www.womanreinventsself.blogspot.com/

Author Bio

Celia Kennedy was born in Wurzburg, Germany on a military base. Her parent’s penchant for traveling has stuck with her, she’s lived in and traveled through several countries.

The imagined world has always fascinated Celia. She has studied Art History, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, and Architecture. Her thirteen year career at UW in Seattle ended in 1996. Not wanting to be homeless, she left the academic world and worked as a Landscape Architect, married the love of her life, became a mom, has been PTA President, Girl Scout leader and Boy Scout leader.

The unimaginable wealth in her life is the most fascinating thing to her.

Her love of travel, the designed and natural world, friendship, self-discovery, wine, chocolate, AND love are the foundation of her books.

Celia published her first book, Charlotte’s Restrained, The Accidental Stalker in December 2012, Venus Rising in August of 2013, Sugar It’s Cold Outside, Cupid on the Loose Anthology, April’s Fool, Fool’s Rush In Anthology, 2015 AND Kathleen’s Undressed, The Accidental Enigma on February 23, 2015. Three other works are in progress.

Devika Fernando – http://www.devikafernando.com/blog

Author Bio

Almost as soon as Devika Fernando could write, she imagined stories and poems. After finishing her education in Germany and returning to her roots in Sri Lanka, she got a chance to turn her passion into her profession. Having lived in Germany and in Sri Lanka with her husband has made her experience the best (and the worst) of two totally different worlds – something that influences her writing. Her trademark is writing sweet, yet deeply emotional romance stories where the characters actually fall in love instead of merely falling in lust. What she loves most about being an author is the chance to create new worlds and send her protagonists on a journey full of ups and downs that will leave them changed. She draws inspiration from everyone and everything in life. Besides being a romance novel author, she works as a self-employed German web content writer, as a translator, and as a faithful servant to all the cats, dogs, fish and birds in her home. When she’s not writing, she’s reading or thinking about writing.

Having always loved to read and write, Devika made her dream come true in 2014 when she became a self-published novelist. The Amazon bestselling author has published several eBooks in the genres contemporary romance, paranormal romance and romantic suspense. Her German and Sri Lankan roots influence her writing.

Jordyn Meryl – http://www.jordynmeryl.com/

Author Bio

Once living under the guise of a passive, quiet, school librarian, books and kids were the passions which kept her mind fresh.  One day she decided to spread her wings and live the dream of her heart. As she sits in front of her computer, her fingers bring to life the voices in her head. But it is when the night muses visit Jordyn, her spirit rises up to wrap around the stories that float in her dreams.  Land locked in the mid-west, she envisions days on a white sandy beach with a laptop to write all her tales.  Crossing many genres she spins chronicles of romance, paranormal and fantasy, for they are stories worth telling, even at the risk of revealing true feelings.

Ella Quinn – https://ellaquinnauthor.wordpress.com/

Author Bio

Bestselling Regency author Ella Quinn lived all over the United States, the Pacific, Canada, England and Europe before finally discovering the Caribbean. She is currently living on a sailboat, with her wonderful husband of over 30 years, a cat and a Portuguese Water Dog. Ella loves when readers connect with her.

Crystal Miles Gauthier – http://crystalmilesgauthier.blogspot.com/

Author Bio

Crystal Miles Gauthier (a.k.a Crysmisty Lee)

Blonde Hair, Blue eyed, buxom, fiery tempered mature woman. Born in Lousiville, KY. Now living in Lansing, MI where I spent my youth. My mother and father worked for General Motors. I have one sister named Angela Miles Meredith who is also an author. I am a retired paralegal, housewife, mother of five and grandmother of 13. I have two cats. I have lived all over the northeast and south. Have traveled the USA. In 2001 I married my husband Joe, a retired Army Military Policeman, who is now a Regional Marketing VP for a local consulting firm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adrienne Davenport – https://vermillionquill.wordpress.com/

Author Bio

As a novelist, I enjoy my work immensely. My first book, A Fairytale; was written when I was eleven years old for an assignment I had in sixth grade. While the rest of the class was writing one or two pages, I created a book more than ten pages long. Since I’ve loved to write from that time that I was in first grade, it seemed the logical path to take. Miracles in the Making is my first novella. Up to this point however, I have published two other novels, Dishonorable Intentions and Stranger by Morning. Right now, I am working on a fresh new romance. Almost Wonderful is due to be released in the near future. I currently live in the beautiful town of Moab, Utah.

When I am not writing, I can usually be found spending time with my young son, Julian. As a single mom, it was a challenge at first to find a happy medium, but my son always comes first! I never stop loving what I do. I hope you enjoy my works.

Beverly Ovalle – http://beverlyovalleromance.blogspot.com/

 

 

 

 

Author Bio

Beverly Ovalle dabbled with writing on and off for years when her best friend finally dared her to submit a story to a writing contest. She decided she had nothing to lose and since she’d always wanted to be an author sent it in and agonized for months waiting to hear back.

Beverly has been obsessed with dragons and romance since she was a young girl, collecting dragon books and reading everything she could find on them even down to the care of real life dragons. On the other hand she’s always been slightly panicked that the world as we know it will end, so has prepped for it, haunting survivalist pages and prepper projects she felt she needed in the event her world ended.

An avid fan of all romance, Beverly’s goal is to share her love of the written word and write the hot and erotic romances that she enjoys. She writes what she loves to read and it was only a matter of time before her obsessions crept into her writing for her to share.

A Navy Veteran, Beverly’s traveled around the world and the United States to be able to bring her settings to life, meeting and marrying her husband of twenty five years along the way for her own romance. Reading romances since the fourth grade she’s followed as the genre changed and spread into the vast cornucopia of romance offered today.

E.J. Frost – https://emmafrostuk.wordpress.com/

Author Bio

I write speculative fiction set in the near and distant future. I like my science hard and my romance harder.

Snowburn, now available, begins a far-future, sci-fi/romance series set on the Deep Frontier. The sequel to Snowburn, Throwing Fire, will be released in spring 2015 and continues the adventures of Hale Hauser, Kez and their Norgir rabbits.

In 2016, the second phase of the Deep Frontier series launches with Hale Hauser’s distant cousin, Jon Hauser, taking the spotlight in The Lure of Space. Jon takes his rebellion interstellar in The Stars Avail.

Neon Blue, now available, begins a contemporary fantasy series, chronicling the path to power of urban witch Tsara Faa. Tsara’s powers expand in the short story, Black Magic Friday. The second book in the series, Blood Yellow, will be released in fall 2015. The conclusion to the series, Burning Bones, is scheduled for 2016.

I almost forgot my info, didn’t I? LOL.

Author Bio

Bestselling author of UPON YOUR RETURN and 19 other books. 2014 BTS Red Carpet Review Nominee. Finalist and Runner-up in the MARSocial’s Author of the Year Competition. Honorable mention in the January 2014 Reader’s Choice Award. Liebster Blogger Award for 2013 and 2014. Top 50 Authors on AuthorsDB.com. Winner of the Great One Liners Contest on the Directory of Published Authors.

Marie Lavender lives in the Midwest with her family and three cats. She has been writing for over twenty years. She has more works in progress than she can count on two hands. Marie has published twenty books in the genres of historical romance, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, paranormal romance/fantasy, mystery/thriller, literary fiction and poetry. Lavender just released Second Nature, a paranormal romance/urban fantasy, in December of 2014. She released Magick & Moonlight, a romantic fantasy, back in March of last year. Upon Your Honor, released last April, is her second historical romance. Her current series are The Heiresses in Love Series, The Magick Series and The Blood at First Sight Series. Feel free to visit her website at http://marielavender.com/ for further information about her books and her life. Marie is also on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and LinkedIn.

A list of her books and pen names are as follows:

Marie Lavender: Upon Your Return; Magick & Moonlight; Upon Your Honor; Second Nature

Erica Sutherhome: Hard to Get; Memories; A Hint of Scandal; Without You; Strange Heat; Terror in the Night; Haunted; Pursuit; Perfect Game; A Touch of Dawn; Ransom; Leather and Lace

Kathryn Layne: A Misplaced Life

Heather Crouse: Express Café and Other Ramblings; Ramblings, Musings and Other Things; Soulful Ramblings and Other Worldly Things

My Books through Solstice Publishing

Thank you all for stopping by to see the blog tour, and special thanks to all the participating authors!  🙂

Teaser from UPON YOUR LOVE

I’ve been steadily at work finishing up the final book of the Heiresses in Love Series, Upon Your Love. Current word count? 112,816 words. Lots more writing to do before I even think of edits. So, I thought I’d drop by today and offer a teaser. For those familiar with the series, you may have wondered if I was ever going to pair Eric, Grant’s valet and family friend to the Hill’s, with someone. Well, here’s the answer and a sexy teaser:

“You don’t approve of women who give their favors easily,” she said at last, her eyes fastened on him once more.

“That’s right. It’s not snobbery in any fashion. I believe that some women are placed in that position because of circumstances I can’t even imagine. I do see why it occurs, but it’s not my preference at all.”

“In what context is it all right then?”

He wondered where this line of questioning was going. Judging from her reaction just a few minutes ago, she couldn’t be in a hurry to repeat that intimacy. “If two people care about each other and are attracted to one another, then I believe there’s no reason they shouldn’t act on their feelings. Unless there are reasons they should avoid it.”

“Such as?”

He shrugged. “One is too young or it’s an extramarital affair. In those cases, it is, of course, the proper thing to avoid getting too close.”

“And what about us? Would that be proper?”

He swallowed hard. Couldn’t she see that she was tormenting him? “Ah…yes, I suppose. But, you don’t feel that way about me, Claudette.”

She frowned. “You’ve kissed me many times.”

“So I have. But, if you felt any more for me, you would have told me by now.”

She began to pace around the room, his eyes following her like she was his body’s only compass. “And what if I was waiting on you?”

“Were you?” he murmured, then shook his head. “You don’t mean that. Awhile ago, you thought I’d hurt you, which I would never do, chére. What you’re saying is not possible.”

“You’re wrong.”

He frowned. “What?”

“I wasn’t afraid you had attacked me.” She sighed. “I was afraid I’d had too much to drink…”

“That I’d taken advantage of you?”

“No, only that I let you, that I consented. But, then I saw that you were still dressed.”

“It was meant to reassure you.”

“Thank you for that.” She crossed the room and sat beside him on the bed. When she reached out and touched his cheek, he steeled himself against the urge to lean closer. “You’re a good man, Eric. I’ve never known anyone like you. It would be an honor to be with you.”

Mon Dieu, was she saying what he thought she was? His most fervent dreams couldn’t possibly be happening right now. “The honor is mine, I assure you. For any moment I spend with you is unforgettable.”

A fine sheen came over her eyes, making her green gaze appear luminous. Tears, he thought, but she didn’t shed them. He kept his eyes on hers, absorbing her nearness until she leaned forward and brushed her mouth against his. The tingling sensation moved throughout his entire body, creating fires that weren’t quite there before. Helpless to resist her invitation, he let himself dive into the kiss, seeking her sweetness with his tongue. When they came up for air, he speared a hand into her long hair. “Ah, Claudette, you know how much I want you. I cannot hide it. But, I want do to this properly.” He took a deep breath as he looked into her pretty eyes. “Tell me ‘no’ now, and I’ll leave this room.”

“I don’t want to say ‘no’.”

He groaned. “If you don’t, I’m going to make love to you and I doubt either of us will be the same again.”

Her lips parted and he stole a kiss, knowing he was on the edge. They both moaned. “Say it. Tell me ‘no’,” he said, tearing his mouth away.

“No one has ever made love to me. I should like to experience that.”

Her voice was barely a whisper, but his body heard every word, leaning closer. It took a second for his brain to weigh in. He nodded, and knew that he had to go slowly because of her limited experience, and she clearly wasn’t going to brush him off. He paced himself by touching her gently, brushing her exposed shoulders and arms with his palms as he leaned in to kiss her again.

 

Meet My Characters Blog…Hop?

I wasn’t exactly tagged in this blog hop, but I stumbled across it on Olga Núñez Miret’s blog here.  Olga is a fellow author in arms and the Heiresses in Love series had a spotlight on her blog recently.  Here is one of her recent books to entice you:

Anyway, I thought this would be an interesting opportunity to talk about one of my works-in-progress.  Here are the questions.

1. What is the name of your character? Is he/she fictional or a historic person?

Desir­­ee Edwards is the name of the heroine.  The hero is Alec Sullivan.  They are definitely fictional.

2. When and where is the story set?

The story is set in Baltimore.

3. What should we know about him or her?

Both of the characters are “supernatural” in their own fashion, but the details of Desiree’s abilities don’t come out until later in the story.

4. What is the main conflict? What messes up his/her life?

I would say that meeting one another changes them forever.  Alec first sees Desiree at a festival and he is instantly enamored of her.  Desiree, on the other hand, doesn’t notice him right away.  When she finally meets him, she is forced to come to terms with the fact that there is a whole other world out there.

5. What is the personal goal of the character?

I think they both want to be accepted.

6. Is there a working title for this novel, and can we read more about it?

Yes, of course.  It is titled Second Nature, and there are actually a few teasers on this blog here and here.

7. When can we expect the book to be published?

The manuscript is with beta readers now so as soon as I receive those last few responses back and do those edits, I will send it off to the publisher.  It will be published sometime this year possibly.

I’m not going to be tagging anybody, but if anyone wants to tell me something about their characters, please, I’d love to hear, and don’t worry about tagging me back!

Thanks for reading and if you’ve enjoyed it please share, comment, like and of course, take part if you want! And CLICK!

And yes, there is a reason why I post a picture of a park. And it has to do with the novella…Now, you’ll just have to wait and read it when it comes out!  🙂

Teaser from SECOND NATURE, a work in progress

I thought I’d share another teaser from SECOND NATURE, which is with beta readers right now.

The erotic growl came back and it ended on a purr. “If I do this, I can’t go back. I can’t undo it.”

She frowned and thought he was talking to himself more than to her. She couldn’t imagine what he meant. “I’m not going to change my mind. I want to help you, Alec. You need to feed and I can provide that for you.”

He was quiet for too long. “You don’t know what your trust means to me.”

She blinked back the tears that speared into her eyes. Like this, he certainly didn’t sound like a vampire or a supernatural being that had used people for years. He sounded…well, like a man. “Do it. I want you to,” she whispered, her body now trembling from a mix of anxiety and passion.

When his fangs struck her, she cried out at the bite, the burn. Suddenly it faded, replaced with only warmth. His arms encircled her, drawing her so close she couldn’t imagine not being with him in some way. The sucks, the slight pulls on her skin were very erotic and she knew she grew prepared for him.

She wondered how vampires could gauge what was enough, what was too much to take. Well, she could add that to her long list of questions, couldn’t she?

“So much thinking…relax, Desiree. I won’t take you if you’re uneasy about this.”

Her name sounded so right on his lips. She closed her eyes, and concentrated on the slow sucking sensation from his mouth. “I’m here. I’m fine,” she assured him. To ease them both, she lifted a hand to his hair. The black spikes were soft against her fingertips. His groan communicated itself to her. She moved her hand from his hair to the nape of his neck. His arms were like steel around her, but the strength wasn’t a deterrent. For a moment, she thought wildly of what it might be like to be a vampire, biting him, taking him as he took her equally. Her belly grew warm in a liquid slide.

His growl returned and she wondered if he’d read her mind. Probably.

She smiled and just held him in return.