Harlie's Book Blog

Dead Faint by Lizzie T. Leaf - Review

2012-10-12T01:00:00.000-05:00

The first two books in the series will be free from Amazon today and tomorrow. If you are looking for a great read with a different twist on vamps, its not to be missed. :) Buy link is below.

BLURB:

Waking up to discover you're a vampire then fainting at the sight of your number one food source isn't healthy.

Billie Joyce’s dream visit to New York City turned into a nightmare. Now not only is she one of the living dead, but she has to contend with a know-it-all vampire who wants to tell her how to talk. Not gonna happen!

Review:

When I was offered to read and review this series I was elated! Well...I was too late to read book 1 but I jumped at the chance to read book 2, Dead Faint. O.M.G. This series is hilarious! I now have the first book. (Highly recommended)

If you are looking for a completely different twist on the whole vampire genre, this series is for you. Its laugh out loud funny, sexy and real. I really felt like I was there in the alleyway when Billie Joyce (BJ) was turned and Daniel coming to her rescue...BJ is this timid girl from the country and did not expect to find vampires, become a vampire and have to deal with drinking blood. The ways that she had to drink was priceless.

Daniel is the vampire with the task of trying help BJ in her new world. He didn't expect to be attracted to her or her to him. Their relationship was sweet and felt completely natural to me. Minus, the blood. :)

I know that most writers either like being compared to other authors or not but Ms. Leaf's turn on the vampire world is reministant of MaryJane Davidson with her pacing, plotting and humor. Vampire stories don't have to be all gothic to make a point and be good.

I would recommend this book and so far, the series to my mother, aunts, cousins for the humor, dialogue and twists and turns the book takes.

BIO:

Award winning author, Lizzie T. Leaf started life in Kansas, continued her growing in North Carolina, and currently shivers through the winters in Colorado. She has numerous e-books in varying lengths and her first print book, Struck by Lightning, won dual 2007 Beacon awards, in addition to being a finalist in two other contests.

In addition, Making Christmas, a Christmas Historical novella set during the Civil War won Love Romances Café Best Historical for 2011 and is a finalist in the Aspen Gold for Best Novella.

Beyond Magic, the first book in the Magical Love series won the 2012 Award of Excellence Best Paranormal/Fantasy/Sy-Fi, and is a finalist for Best Paranormal in the Aspen Gold. Winners are announced in mid to late October.

Since discovering the fun of writing paranormal, she plays with creating vampires, faeries and other immortals. Her current focus is the DEAD series. Musa Publishing has re-released the first four novellas in the series and DEAD Hot, a new novella, is scheduled to release in October. Emerging Magic, the second novel in the Magical Love series will also release in late October or early November with Passion in Print Press.

When not creating mischief for paranormal beings, she can be found exploring the other genres she wants to write. She also serves as the 2012 President for the Heart of Denver Romance Writers.

Lizzie loves to read, spend time with her family and travel with her best friend husband during her free time, on which most of friends ask…“what free time?”

ONLINE LINKS:

Website www.lizzietleaf.com

Blog http://lizzietleaf.blogspot.com/

Facebook http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=826769827

Twitter http://twitter.com/lizzietleaf

Harlie's Books is Moving...

2012-10-09T04:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, Harlie is moving to WordPress in the next few days. If you follow with GFC, I'm sorry but GFC hates WordPress. Please follow me by email, Networked Blogs, Linky. I will have another way for you to follow Harlie once the WordPress site goes live.

Also, you can follow Harlie via her Facebook page and on Twitter.

Links:

Facebook link

Twitter Link

I realize that this does not make alot of people happy but with all the Feedburner and Blogger issues of late, Harlie needs to make the move. I have two other blogs on WordPress and love it. User friendly, templates are better and since I own the domain, I can self host on WordPress so I can manage the content.

I hate to lose all of my followers because of Feedburner and GFC but the decision has been made.

I will let everyone know via Facebook, Twitter and email when the change happens. Hopefully in the next few days.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

I will have a contest when the move is complete. And yes, I know that I owe books and GC to people. I promise, you will get them. The house move is complete now. Whew!!!!!

The Pirates of Vampire Island by Phoenix and Lover Boy - Review

2012-10-09T02:00:00.000-05:00

Title: The Pirates of Vampire Island, A Paranormal Romantic Thriller

Series: Steamy Voyages, Series #1

Author: Phoenix and Lover Boy

Publisher: Self (Amazon and B&N)

Length: 61,700 words

Genres: Paranormal Romance (Adventure)

Heat Level: Sizzling

AVAILABLE AT:

Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Pirates-Paranormal-Romantic-Thriller-ebook/dp/B0090OOOX6

B&N – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-pirates-of-vampire-island-a-paranormal-romantic-thriller-steamy-voyages-1-phoenix-and-lover-boy/1112584812

BLURB:

Pretty Jane O'Doherty always chooses the wrong kind of guys. Her specialty seems to be guys who have serious flaws and who break her heart.

Her last breakup was a year ago and still she can hear his final words, "I'm sorry, Jane. I've found someone else."

A 30-day cruise through the exotic Indonesian Islands with her best friend seems like the perfect distraction to mend her broken heart.

On board, she meets devastatingly gorgeous Nick, who attracts women in droves, including our lovely Jane.

And she meets Peter, who is the cute geek with puppy dog eyes.

Will either one just lead to another broken heart?

Should she run the other way from them both and just enjoy the cruise?

But before Jane can decide, the ship is attacked by modern day pirates.

Unlike the pirates of old, these guys are vampires and are more interested in human treasure than gold and jewels.

They take over the ship and take twelve women hostage.

And the handsome pirate leader—with eerie chalk-white skin, and red eyes, is looking for a special prize. He wants a woman for his mate and queen . . .

Jane catches his eye, but she, along with Nick and Peter, manage to escape in a lifeboat and onto the open sea.

They drift for fourteen days before finally finding an island.

But the fates are cruel, and their island turns out to be the home of the pirates and the lair of the Vampire.

The Pirates of Vampire Island is non-stop action . . . filled with adventure, suspense . . . and steamy romance.

EXCERPT #3:

As we approached the outdoor swimming pool on the top deck, I saw dark clouds threatening a storm. My hair was whipping in the wind. I shivered. Bad idea. But Remy was undaunted. She immediately ran and did a cannonball. As I stood wondering if I should just go back to the cabin, a waiter came up, a small, dark boy about sixteen, probably a native of the area. He wore a short white jacket with epaulets and black pants.

"Would you like a drink, mum?"

"How about a snow suit?" I laughed. "Just kidding. No, I'm good for now." I surveyed the sunbathers and swimmers. There he was. As usual, he was surrounded by women. He was dressed in a simple white pullover sweater and tan slacks, but the cut and fabric screamed money. His luxurious, curly black hair whipped in the wind, making him look very unkempt, rugged, and nonchalant, as if fine grooming was so not important because he was stunningly handsome no matter what he wore or did.

"Excuse me, sir?" I said.

The waiter turned.

"What's that guy's name? The one with the black curly hair."

"Nickolas Angelopoulos." He stood for a moment. "Anything else I can help you with?"

"Nope. Thank you," I said, not taking my eyes off the amazing-looking man.

"You're gawking."

I shook myself and looked down. Remy was hanging on the side of the pool. "Yeah, I guess I am."

Enough of that.

"I'm coming in." I walked over to the diving board and performed a perfect dive. I had always been very athletic, and I knew my body showed it.

I swam several laps, trying not to look at this guy named Nickolas, and climbed out of the pool, dripping water, and squeezing it out of my thick mane. I shivered a little in the cool wind, and as I finished drying, I saw out of the corner of my eye that Nicholas was staring at me – well, at my chest anyway. I looked down to see that my nipples were perfectly erect through my black bikini. I quickly draped my towel around my shoulders so it covered my breasts and was suddenly looking for a quick way to exit.

Review:

Add one woman with so much lacking in the self confidence department, one completely arrogant playboy, the boy next door that grows into a man, a cruise gone wrong and an island full of nasty vampires? The Pirates of Vampire Island. Whew!!! I'm tired but its a good tired.

If you are expecting sparkly vampires, this book is so not for you. Expecting the arrogant playboy to change? Nope, again. The heroine to finally get some self confidence? You bet. The boy next door growing up...yes again.

I won't rehash the plot summary but this book is the wildest ride I've been on in awhile. Its violent, well plotted, the setting is rich and you can tell that the authors researched the islands and pirates in general. At first Jane was your typical romance heroine. Mousey, unsure of herself, dating the wrong men and going on a cruise that was supposed to be a break from her life. I will admit that I didn't connect with her in the beginning. I kept thinking to myself, surely she will grow on me and grow in the book. Yes, she did.

Nickolas, the arrogant playboy can and will charm the panties off of anyone. As you know, I love a great Harlequin Presents hero - like Nickolas - but he was beyond redemption for me. I never liked him but that was the point. His character was written perfectly in my opinion. Great job.

Peter to me was the true hero in the book. In fact, if Nickolas didn't exist in the book, I think Peter's character would have been lost. The difference between both men was apparent and necessary for Jane's growth in the book. Loved it.

I will caution you on a couple of things in the books. The vampires are nasty, cruel and violent. Yes, there is violence and its brutal. No sparkly vampires here and it was nice to read a different twist on the whole vamp genre. Leon, the leader is such a bad ass that you need to read this book and try to disagree with me. Also, this book is defintely a thriller which I loved. The action and story were different from the typical romantic suspense that I usually read. The twists and the overall flow of the book was spot on.

I can't wait for book #2 in this series. I'm hoping that Remy's story is next. Hint, hint!!! No pressure.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

I was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, and grew up in California. I came from a long line of Americans who were pioneers and individualists. The family tree is filled with rugged people: rough coal miners, pioneers, and farmers living in log cabins in the early west. I wrote A Whisper from Eden, A Historical Fantasy, but like to write in several genres.

Lover Boy (aka my husband) was born and raised in Anaheim, California and wishes to remain anonymous because he doesn’t want anyone to know he likes to write romance novels. (Let's keep his secret.)

We wrote THE PIRATES OF VAMPIRE ISLAND, A Paranormal Romantic Thriller (Steamy Voyages #1). And we are working the sequel to Steamy Voyages and a dystopian thriller, The Trash Pile People. We live in Hollywood with our ornery tomcat, Snickers.

Website: http://www.fictionbyphoenix.com

E-mail: read@booksbyphoenix.com

Twitter: @PhoenixRead

Goodreads: Phoenix Reads

Facebook Page: Fiction by Phoenix

Facebook Profile: Lee Jordan

Pinterest: Lee Jordan

Amazon Author Central: Amazon.com/author/phoenixread

Amazon Reviews by Phoenix Profile Page: http://amzn.to/P8T5QD

Halloween Heat V Menage Anthology - Guest Post/Giveaway

2012-10-06T02:00:00.000-05:00

Book Blurb:

Five scorching contemporary erotic tales of ménage love to heat even the coldest Halloween night.

Giveaway is a $25 GC and its tour wide. Good Luck. Make sure that you fill out the Rafflecopter at the end of the post.

Heating Up Halloween…

Halloween is one of my favorite times of the year. It's like the naughty, raucous stepsibling of the more formal, sometimes stuffy holidays. You know, a slightly embarrassing relative who tends to drink too much and say things we really wish they wouldn't have and is never officially invited to the party, but always shows up anyway? Yep, that's our ol' Halloween.

Who says costumes and candy are only for kids? A time for mischievous, playful fun, it offers up a chance for adults to get in on the act. And when grown-ups let go of some of their inhibitions, things can get interesting. Imagine the things that may happen if a certain grown-up doesn't have many inhibitions to begin with…or none at all.

My short story, Taking Candy, is about one such adult. And while Candy may not need an excuse to throw caution to the wind, for the more reserved of us, it helps--even if our version of “going wild” only consists of daring to dress up. Halloween offers the wonderful opportunity to become a character of your choosing.

I haven't dressed up in a few years, I have to admit, but the last time I did I was a sexy (ahem, if I do say so myself), little Alice in Wonderland while Candy opts for a most revealing cheerleader's costume. If you were to dress up this year--or better yet, if you're going to!--what costume would you choose? What character would you become if only for one fun, crazy night? What's your personal Halloween style? Sexy? Funny? Morbid? I think they're all good, but, then, I always have been a fan of playing dress up.

Connect with us

Alyssa Turner
www.alyssaturnerwrites.blogspot.com
www.facebook.com/alyssaturnerwrites

Jennifer James
http://www.authorjenniferjames.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jennifer-James/212335188856799

Eden Summers
www.edensummers.com
https://www.facebook.com/authoredensummers

Vristen Pierce
http://vristenpierce.wordpress.com/
https://twitter.com/vristenpierce

Ana Maria Pasion
https://www.facebook.com/AnaMariaPasion

Buy Links

All Romance Ebooks - https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-halloweenheatv-968822-146.html

Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16056467-halloween-heat-v-menage

Amazon- http://www.amazon.com/Halloween-Heat-V-ebook/dp/B009MBUOQI/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1349497947&sr=1-7&keywords=halloween+heat

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A Practical Arrangement by Nadja Notariani Review/Giveaway

2012-10-04T02:00:00.000-05:00

Practical plans go awry when prim sensibilities unwittingly capture the heart of a scandalous seducer.

BLURB:

Miss Evangeline Grey, intelligent and sensible, has no desire to marry, her reluctance born from the dire warnings of her overly emotional mother. Her father has other ideas, however, and decrees that unless she weds by the spring, he will choose a husband for her.

Prim and proper Evangeline accepts her father's issue with little more than mild alarm. Knowing herself plain of face and sharp of tongue, she believes herself capable of warding off any perspective suitor. Her plan goes awry when the scandalous seducer, Mr. Thomas Masterson, visits her family's home, for Thomas has learned that he must procure a wife to receive his full inheritance.

When he discovers Evangeline's predicament matches his own, Thomas determines to orchestrate a practical arrangement. A war of wit and word results, and Thomas finds himself ever more beguiled by the soft heart he discovers under Miss Grey's stern, inhibited exterior. Patiently, he endeavors to gain her respect and awaken her passions. As tenuous trust blooms between the rake and the reluctant, unfortunate events – and Thomas' past reputation – threaten to destroy the peace and happiness he has found within the bonds of his Practical Arrangement.

Review:

I'm on a historical kick right now with my reading. I shied away from them for awhile because they tended to read the same way. Rogue/rake, virginal heroine/mouse of a woman, marriage of convenience/arranged, evil characters trying to break them up, and then of course, my favorite...hero ignores the heroine. Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. Boring. Well in the last two days, I've read some of the best historicals written in a long time.

Evangeline is a strong willed and sometimes too smart for her own good heroine. She doesn't want to marry. When her father hears about this, he decides to take the matter in his own hands. He decides that she must marry by spring or he will choose someone for her. Paying no attention to the edict set by her father, she is meets Thomas. A notorious seducer.

Thomas hears of her plight and when he proposes an arrangement to help each other out, he was not prepared to actually fall for Evangeline. Thomas is not your typical historical hero. He admits to his rakish ways, his ability to do nothing but play around. I liked him from the start and by the end of the book, he stole my heart.

The dialogue between Evangeline and Thomas was witty and intelligent. While their personalities were different, they complimented each other. The needed each other. The characterizations of the secondary characters were great. Not overpowering and they kept the pace going. While there is no "true" villain in the story, one of the secondary characters kept popping up and I wanted to smack them upside their heads.

Keeping in tradition of "mainstream" historicals, the bedroom scenes were passionate, sweet and emotional. I truly adored the building of their relationship and kept turning the pages for more. It never felt rushed and was sweet. I highly recommend A Practical Arrangement for the dialogue, sweetness of their relationship and the overall crispness of the story.

BIO:

Nadja Notariani was born in Rochester, Pennsylvania. Her upbringing included very diverse environments, affording wide and varied richness of ethnic and religious tradition. Raised in both an Italian/Mediterranean American home and a traditional German household, Nadja gleaned the unique benefits of viewing the world through two widely different lenses.

Nadja resides in Northeastern Pennsylvania, ever embracing new adventures with her husband, three sons and faithful German Shepherd. She also boasts two grown daughters, who have flown the nest to pursue their own adventures.

Within her titles, readers can find romance and adventure, from contemporary to paranormal to historical, always with a happily-ever-after. Nadja enjoys hearing from readers and can be found at her website, on Facebook, Goodreads, and at Romance Novel Center. Readers are welcome to contact her via email.

nadja.notariani@gmail.com

BUY NOW LINK:

· Amazon Kindle Copy

ONLINE LINKS:

· Website http://nadjanotariani.blogspot.com/

· Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nadja-Notariani/207762699237066?ref=hl

Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/author/dashboard

9/24 Arianne Cruz Guest Blog and Giveaway http://ariannecruz07.blogspot.com

9/25 My Devotional Thoughts Guest Blog and Giveaway http://www.mydevotionalthoughts.com/

9/25 Sultry Storyteller Interview http://sultrystoryteller.blogspot.com/

9/26 All Things Writing Guest Post http://www.allthingswriting.blogspot.com

9/26 Reading Romances Review and Giveaway http://reading-romances.com

9/27 T B R Review and Giveaway http://tbr-io.blogspot.com/

9/27 Free Book Dude Guest Post http://FreeBookDude.com

10/1 Queen of the Night Reviews Review, Guest Blog, and Giveaway http://queenofthenightreviews.blogspot.com/

10/1 A Chick Who Read Review, Guest Blog, and Giveaway http://achickwhoreads.blogspot.com/

10/4 I Just Wanna Sit Here and Read! Guest Blog and Giveaway http://www.sithereandread.com/

10/4 Harlie's Books Review and Giveaway http://harliebooks.blogspot.com/

10/8 Identiyy Discovery Guest post http://www.identitydiscovery.net/

10/9 The Insane Writings of a Crazed Writer Guest Blog and Giveaway http://www.jessekimmelfreeman.com/blog.html

10/9 The Bunny's Review Review, Interview, and Giveaway http://bunnysreview.com

10/10 Just Another Rabid Reader Review, Guest Blog, and Giveaway http://justanotherrabidreader.info

10/10 My Cozie Corner Review http://coziecorner.blogspot.com

10/10 Reviews By Molly Review http://reviewsbymolly.com/

10/11 Mademoiselle Le Sphinx Review http://aliaaelnashar.blogspot.com/

10/12 Reading on the Wild Side Guest Blog and Giveaway http://readingonthewildside.blogspot.com/?zx=1013a8f156087770

10/12 Oopie Poopie The Bibliomaniac Review and Giveaway http://oopiepoopiethebibliomaniac.blogspot.com/

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Cover Reveal by Nikki Lynn Barrett

2012-10-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

BLURB:

The magic of Christmas has been lost to Jacob Winston. At the suggestion of his
ill sister, Jacob takes a job as a Secret Santa at a mall, hoping to restore his
Christmas spirit. Even that doesn't seem to work until a special little boy
ambles up to make a very special wish...

Cheyenne Jensen is struggling to raise her two kids without the help of her ex
husband who refuses to acknowledge his daughter's existence and doesn't provide
for the son he does. Christmas is shaping up to be as heartbreaking as the last
until her son Ben's kind actions lead a stranger to them.

Ah, but it's Christmas time and the magic has begun.

When Jacob and Cheyenne meet, neither can deny their immediate attraction to one
another. As situations arise that require they spend more time together, the
stronger their feelings grow.

With Christmas fast approaching, the pair learn what matters most in life, now
if only they could ditch the ghost of Christmases past.

Maybe this holiday will bring some wishes come true- for everyone after all.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nikki Lynn Barrett is a mother and a wife, and loves all things creative. Writing has been a passion since she was in elementary school. Along with writing, she is a reviewer, blogger, online bookstore owner, photographer and most recently, she went into business with her mom to design jewelry. Nikki currently resides in Phoenix Arizona, where she spends her summers dreaming and wishing she had a swimming pool to float around in, and dodges raindrops as monsoon storms roll in and she's out with her camera. The Secret Santa Wishing Well is her debut book, but look out world, for this will not be the last you hear of her, as she has more stories planned to share with everyone.

You can like Nikki's Facebook page here:

http://www.facebook.com/NikkiLynnBarrettauthor

Love's Debt by Rachel Brimble Review/Giveaway

2012-10-03T03:00:00.000-05:00

Title: Love's Debt

Author: Rachel Brimble

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Length: 91 pages

Genres: Historical Romance

BUY LINK(S):

The Wild Rose Press - http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=195&products_id=4967

BLURB:

To keep herself from the depths of poverty, Milly Shepherd needs to be appointed manager of the Red Lion Tavern. The elderly owner is in failing health and has promised her the job permanently if no one more suitable applies. Milly will fight with her entire being to make the job her own.

Joseph Jacobs needs to supplement his income to pay off his father’s creditors and save him from debtor’s prison. Though the job as manager of the local tavern looks promising, Milly is favored by both the owner and customers. Instead, Joseph swallows his pride and agrees to tend bar.

As they work together, their attraction grows, their goals cross, and both Millie and Joseph find they must face their fears …the question is whether they face them alone or together?

EXCERPT #1:

Joseph Jacobs closed the tavern door behind him and paused a moment to take in his surroundings. As a man used to looking over his shoulder and sensing trouble, experience taught him to be aware of others before they became aware of you. He narrowed his gaze. The meager number of patrons at the tables surprised him at an hour when he expected the bar to be fairly busy. He glanced at the clock; maybe it wasn’t time for the workers yet.

He shifted his gaze to the woman standing beneath the clock and his heart kicked. Her green-gold eyes held him where he stood. She stared and Joseph swallowed, willing some words to come forth from his frozen tongue or at least a smile to curve his paralyzed lips.

She lifted her eyebrows and slowly pulled a cloth from her shoulders. Her hair was a mass of fire-tipped curls around her oval face, her skin creamy-white and her parted lips, a soft delicate pink. Joseph cleared his throat and belatedly removed his hat.“Good evening, miss.”

Her smile slipped easily into place. “Good evening to you, sir.” Her voice was smooth, clear and full of confidence. “Are you looking to quench your thirst or just planning on soaking up the atmosphere?”

Joseph inhaled a long breath through flared nostrils as if trying to smell her. Something told him she’d smell of lavender…or maybe musk. Something to throw a man off guard, to lower his defenses.

He stepped forward. “Neither. I am looking for the landlord. Would you happen to know if he’s available?”

Her gaze lingered on his a moment longer before she looked to the four glasses at the table beside her. She grasped them expertly between her fingers and carried them behind the bar without answering his question.

Joseph couldn’t take his gaze from the natural sway of her hips beneath the deep burgundy dress she wore, the bustle a little too prominent for the current fashion showing her lack of money to afford better. Why else would a woman with the features of an artist’s model be working in a tavern unless necessity demanded it?

Review:

Let me start off by saying that Rachel is my English Rose. I adore her as a person, writer and as someone that has cheered me up when I needed it. This is her second Victorian historical romance and it doesn't disappoint.

I know that my English Rose is nervous about this review and she shouldn't be. Its a sweet,
historical with a complete twist on what you expect from two Victorian characters. Ms. Brimble writes with a deft hand and her settings are perfect. I really feel like in the story; walking down the street; in the tavern; on the docks. Her imagery is fantastic but it doesn't over power the story. Only enhances it.

Milly is not your typical Victorian English Rose. Oh no, she works for a living in a tavern and is looking to be promoted to manager of the tavern. She provides for her mother and sister and will not let a man take that position away from her. She's smart, friendly and different from the standard Victorian lady. She is a lady but has no use for balls, fancy things. She wants all of that for herself and family but it will have to wait. She's not a bitter person but a very happy person and very well liked. What she never counted on was fighting for a job and her heart.

Joseph is a the complete opposite of what an English gentleman. Down on his luck, sharing a room with his father and losing his stature. I really felt for Joseph. He really wanted the tavern manager job but ended up working for Milly in the end. His pride was wounded and he wouldn't ask for help. Damn English pride! When a part of his past catches up with him, will he let Milly help him or push her away.

Milly and Joseph were well thought out and drawn characters. I understood what motivated them and kept them from truly opening up to one another in the beginning. Their romance was sweet and uplifting. I felt their need for each other and keeping their independence. Again, Ms. Brimble puts the characters in opposite roles that are standard in Victorian novels and she does a great job.

I highly recommend Love's Debt for all you nay sayers about Victorian novels. This one is different, fresh and heartwarming.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rachel lives with her husband and two young daughters in a small town near Bath in the UK. She started writing short stories about eight years ago but once her children were at school, she embarked on her first novel. It was published in 2007. Since then, she’s had several books published with small presses as well as securing her first contract with Harlequin Superromance in May 2012.

Represented by US agent Dawn Dowdle, of Blue Ridge Literary Agency, Rachel is a member of the Romantic Novelists Association and Romance Writers of America, When she isn’t writing, you’ll find Rachel with her head in a book or walking the beautiful English countryside with her family. Her dream place to live is Bourton-on-the-Water in South West England. And in the evening? Well, a well-deserved glass of wine is never, ever refused…

Contact Rachel at:

Website - http://www.rachelbrimble.com

Blog - http://rachelbrimble.blogspot.com

Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/rachelbrimble or @rachelbrimble

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachel-Brimble/181873201887441

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Hear Me by Skye Warren - Book Tour/Excerpt-R rated/Giveaway

2012-10-02T02:30:00.000-05:00

Title: HEAR ME

Author: Skye Warren

Length: 32,000-word novella

Genre/Heat Level: Dark erotica

ISBN: 9780988363205

Blurb:

She doesn’t remember her past, only her training. She can’t talk, not that a good slave should speak out of turn. None of that matters when she wakes up in the warm, rustic room. Her new master is distant but kind. There’s only one problem: he doesn’t want her.

Longing for the shackles of safety, she pulls from the last dregs of her will to prove her worth as a slave. It seems to be working. He responds first to her body and next to her submission. The secrets of his past haunt the cabin, fraying the tightening bond between Master and slave, but it is her own memories that may finally unravel it.

This book contains a bonus short story Escape, set in the same dark erotica world.

WARNING:
This book contains explicit scenes of sex, including dubious consent and captivity situations. The BDSM does not conform to literary conventions, making it sometimes more realistic, and other times not. This is a work of fiction not appropriate for anyone uncomfortable with these situations or anyone under the age of eighteen.

Book Trailer:

http://youtu.be/HsAdyjitG3E

My review will be posted on Thursday. Haunting story folks and that's all I'm saying right now.

Excerpt 2 (Some sexual references)

In a reckless burst of courage, she reached out and put her hand directly on his cock. At first it felt like nothing, just the flat stiffness of his jeans. But then, there, it jumped beneath her palm, lengthened.

This was solid ground. She could arouse him, then she would get him off. Any way he wanted it, she had probably done it before, or she could learn. He would see her value then. It wasn’t exactly obedient to grope your Master without express orders to do so. The opposite, really, but she was desperate.

He put his hand on the top of her head, not pushing her closer or away. It was sweet, his hesitation, and she thought for a moment that he would let her get away with it. God, she would do anything. Please.

He gently pushed her hand away.

She wanted to live. How pathetic.

Tears fell in hot tracks down her cheeks.

“Someone really did a number on you, didn’t they?” he asked.

At his words, she looked into his eyes. Amazingly, they were filled with something like understanding. It was probably better that she couldn’t speak then, because she would have begged for him to help her. But she didn’t deserve his benediction. She’d failed.

“Here’s what we’re going to do.” He slid his hand around her neck, grasping her firmly from behind. She melted into the firm touch. “You’re going to sleep now. Stay off the floor. Nod for me.”

She nodded vigorously, her eyes downcast in joy.

His fingers still curled behind her neck, he swept his thumb along her cheek, then down over her neck. Back and forth, he caressed her. She stayed still, watching as her breath ruffled the dark hairs on his forearm.

He moved his thumb against her mouth then pushed it inside. She closed her lips around it, eager to suck it. He tasted of salt and earth and hope. This was her chance to touch him, to please him, to show him badly she wanted this.

She swirled her tongue around the tip, worshipping his thumb like she wanted to worship his cock. Like she wanted to lick every part of him, if it meant she could stay. The soft wet sounds filled the room, tangling with the harsh sounds of his breathing.

She begged with the warmth and wetness of her mouth. She implored with the skill of her tongue. Every swipe promised pleasure, if only.

He pulled his hand away.

Author Bio:

Skye Warren writes unapologetic erotica, where pain and sex and love collide. She has been called "a true mistress of dark and twisted erotica" and her dark erotica series has reached the bestseller lists at Amazon and been a Night Owl Reviews Top Pick.

Author Links:

Website: http://skyewarren.com/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/skye_warren
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/skyewarren

Buy Links:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Hear-Me-Dark-Erotica-ebook/dp/B009BUR5QM

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hear-me-skye-warren/1112922458?ean=2940015690354
All Romance: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-hearme-943870-144.html

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Passionate Tour (Countermeasure) with Chris Almedia & Cecilia Aubrey - Giveway/Guest Post

2012-10-01T02:00:00.000-05:00

Chris and Celila will be offering one commenter a copy of Countermeasure and a grand prize of the entire Countermeasure Series (5 ebooks total) Please put the rafflecopter code below your post for your giveaway. Your readers must comment on the blog post and fill out the rafflecopter to enter.

Each contest stays open for the entirety of the tour and all winners will be picked by me and notified via email. All commenters will be allowed to go back and enter the previous contests.

Blurb:

Cassandra James, an ex-CIA agent, was injured in the line of duty and upon recovery accepted a job at her father's security company. She never expected to fall in love with her suspect in an industrial data espionage case, however, when she met Trevor Bauer, he rocked her world and turned everything she had convinced herself about love upside down.

Trevor Bauer, an NSA analyst, has struggled with the disappearance and possible death of his parents. He reopens his parents' case looking for answers to the mystery of their disappearance. When the first real clue manifests itself, he doesn't expect his little intrusion would lead his dream of a soul mate to his door step much less someone who would take up the mantle of his quest and embrace it Cassandra had. They embark on an exciting adventure.

Their search will lead them into the mysterious and violent world of data espionage and will test their love as they sweep the world with romance, sex, love, and intrigue to find their answers.

Deep POV and Show in Romantic Suspense

We start our Blog Tour with thanking all the host blogs for the opportunity to showcase all the Countermeasure books this week and welcome the release of our latest short story in the Countermeasure Bytes of Life, Passion at Dawn.

A big thank you goes out to Harlie for having us on the first day of the Passionate Tour and to Leagh Christensen for the amazing help with setting up the whole shebang and for keeping us sane.

To kick off the tour we will introduce the subject of deep POV and show in Romantic Suspense.

Deep POV is third person Point of View on steroids. Not only do you, the reader, see the scene through the character’s eyes but also his/her emotions, thoughts, experiences. The 3D feeling is achieved by giving not only the emotions but the senses. Taste, smell, touch, sight, and hearing give color to the pictures painted in the reader’s mind.

Cecilia and I use our Role Play experience to enhance the deep POV in our books. Typically, we try to keep POV in our scenes limited to one or two characters. The length of each character’s POV is determined by the type of scene, but when we do switch, we avoid head hopping by giving a good distance between the hops. When the scene gets heated (which eventually happens with Cassie and Trev), we convey both sides of the scene, giving the full onslaught of emotions, sensations coursing through both characters. In those scenes, not just the physical aspect of it is important but the emotional aspect, the connection they have.

In Romantic Suspense, things go about the same way but with a punch. Literally. The fight, torture, and murders scenes happen in full Technicolor. The reaction of the character during tense scenes, like the one in the hotel room in Monaco, explains a lot about his/her inner steel. Emotional and physical reactions, as well as thoughts, play a big part in those scenes, pulling the reader with the character on a wild ride. The faster the pace, the more show, the deeper the POV.

By diving deep under the character’s skin, we are able to give a deep POV with shows and makes the characters pop from the pages, breathe through the words. They make you feel heartbreak, sorrow, happiness, and terror through the their eyes.

How about you? Have you ever been overwhelmed by a fictional character’s emotions? Leave your comment to enter the giveaway for a chance to win a copy of Countermeasure.

Sláinte!

Chris

Buy Links

Available in Print from:

http://www.amazon.com/Countermeasure-Cecilia-Aubrey/dp/0987921738/

http://www.bookdepository.com/Countermeasure-Chris-Almeida/9780987921734

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/countermeasure-chris-almeida/1108255823?ean=9780987921734

https://www.createspace.com/3787761

Available in Digital format from:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/countermeasure-chris-almeida/1108255823?ean=9780987921734

http://www.amazon.com/Countermeasure-Series-ebook/dp/B006WFMMI0/

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-countermeasure-675859-149.html#

http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/Countermeasure/book-IsucBjJGX0SugqrdokMZmw/page1.html

Tour Schedule:

10/1 featuring Countermeasure ~ Harlie's Books
10/2 featuring Ectasy by the Sea ~ Queen of the Night Reviews
10/3 featuring Cuffed at Midnight ~ Guilty Pleasures
10/4 featuring Passion at Dawn ~ Kinky Book Reviews
10/5 featuring To Russia with Love ~ Author Alannah Lynne

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Hot Ride by Kelly Jamison - Review/Guest Post/Giveaway

2012-09-30T03:30:00.000-05:00

Release date: September 11, 2012

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Length: Novel

Buy Links :

Samhain - http://store.samhainpublishing.com/hot-ride-p-6981.html

Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Hot-Ride-ebook/dp/B008L40O08/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1346744213&sr=1-1&keywords=hot+ride+kelly+jamieson

B&N - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hot-ride-kelly-jamieson/1112120181?ean=9781619211230

Courage is feeling the fear... then pouring on the throttle.

Abandoned or betrayed by everyone she ever loved, Sera Manning’s life spiraled out of control until a near death experience left her with a mission. Now a DEA agent, her sole focus -- and her first undercover assignment -- is to take down a drug cartel that’s manufacturing seductive, deadly angel sugar.

To do it, she needs access to Operation Black Abyss to establish a connection between the cartel and the Death Angels outlaw motorcycle gang. Which means she must pose as a couple with another agent who’s already deep undercover.

ATF agent Ryan Thomas desperately needs a female agent to maintain his cover in the gang, but the last thing he wants is a rookie agent jeopardizing his op. Especially one that is a sexy reminder why it’s a bad idea to get involved while on a case.

Living together, surrounded by crime, pretending their sizzling sexual tension is just for show is getting harder by the day. But as the mission comes to a head, the two fiercely independent warriors must decide which fear is worse. Losing their quarry... or losing each other.

Warning: Features a badass biker hero and kickass heroine who go at it undercover -- and under the covers.

BLOG POST:

Near Death Experiences

The heroine of Hot Ride, Sera , had a near death experience as a teenager and this was why she felt so powerfully motivated to undertake her mission, in fact, her entire career. I’ve never had a near death experience myself, so I had to do some research. Apparently with medical advances and the ability to resuscitate people, there are more and more reports of this phenomenon

Many people report a feeling of hovering above their own body and observing it, a sensation of weightlessness and floating, feeling free and relaxed and serene. People report hearing people who are still living talking. They also often report seeing a dazzling light and a feeling of crossing a border or divide, or moving through a long tunnel. Some have reported seeing a loving, warm spirit, who asks them to evaluate their life. Some say that they felt reluctant to return to the “real world” because they felt such intense joy and peace, a sense of calm and no fear.

People who’ve experienced this are often hesitant to share their experience for fear of being mocked by people who think they’re crazy. For those of us who’ve never experienced it, there is a tendency to be a little skeptical or to doubt that it’s possible. In Hot Ride, Sera’s experienced the humiliation of people who didn’t believe her, and Ryan is definitely skeptical…but something happens to change his mind…

I’m open-minded about near death experiences. I think it could happen. What do you think?

Review:

I’m going to start off by saying Kelly Jamieson is one of those rare writers that no matter what she writes, her stories are always well plotted, character driven and you are in for an emotional ride. Hot Ride does not disappoint on any of those levels. Trust me, I’ve read every word that she has written. Yes, I’m a stalker. Just kidding…well, no I’m not. J

With Hot Ride, she ups the ante with the suspense elements that are in the book and they are perfect for Harlie. What’s not to love about an ATF and DEA agent and the politics that are involved with the two agencies? Well done, Ms. Jamison. She writes with the authority of a seasoned suspense writer and I was constantly turning the pages to see what else was going on with the OMG characters and Sara and Ryan.

Sera or Sara is a complicated woman with a lot of baggage. Not opening herself to even herself is hard enough but to open up to Ryan is the hardest thing that she’s ever done. I loved her. She’s complex, flawed, sexy and strong. Doing her job is the most important thing to her. Not falling for another agent isn’t in the game plan.

Ryan, oh Ryan. *sigh* He is almost perfect. Almost, I say. He is not without his flaws and quirks. Ryan is everything that Sara needs to complete herself and is afraid of losing again. He is a cop through and through. But what happens when the lines are crossed when you are an undercover cop? Ryan wrestles with this at times and the way Ms. Jamison handles is top notch.

Don’t think that the book sugarcoats gangs, federal agents and what those agents do in their jobs. It doesn’t and it shows in the grittiness within the story. The sexual tension between Ryan and Sara starts from their first meeting and gradually builds. As always, Ms. Jamison writes some of the best sex scenes in the business. Emotional, at times raw but always spot on for the characters.

I really hope that Ms. Jamison writes another romantic suspense book. I was hooked from the first page and I didn’t like that book ended. I wanted more of Ryan and Sara.

Kelly Jamieson - Bio

I'm a married mother of two who lives a very ordinary life outside of my imagination. When I'm not writing I'm usually reading. I also like to cook and that means I like to read cookbooks and cooking magazines. In the summer I enjoy spending time gardening and in the winter I like to read gardening magazines and seed catalogues. I love lying on the beach or on my deck with a glass of wine and a good book. I also love to travel. As you can see, pretty much all my activities involve reading somehow! Although I don't have as much time for it any more, I also love to shop, especially for clothes and shoes. Some think I'm obsessed with shoes but that is not true (although my husband would point out that there is no room left in our closet).

I love to hear from readers, so Tweet me on Twitter, leave me a comment on Goodreads or Amazon or my blog , or email me at info (at) kellyjamieson.com.

Nine Naughty Novelists

a Rafflecopter giveaway

More stops on the Book Tour

9/ 11 Caribbean Accent Book Reviews

9/14 Sweet, Sexy, Scorching Blog Hop (12 Stops)

9/16 Harlequin Book Blog

9/18 Book Whore

9/20 Ms. Romantic Reads

9/24 Book Obsessed Chicks

9/26 Cari Quinn

9/27 The Autumn Review

9/29 Under The Covers

9/30 Harlie’s Book Blog

10/1 Ana’s Attic

Help Wanted

2012-09-28T09:54:00.001-05:00

Harlie needs help. She is becoming overwhelmed and with her just signing a book contract, she needs an administrator for the review blog.

Here's what she is looking for:

1. Must know Blogger.

2. Privacy is key. No sharing of what Harlie is doing with anyone.

3. She participates in a lot of tours, so help with setting up blogs for the tours is a must.

4. Must be willing to help at a day's notice.

5. Help with prize giveaways, if needed.

6. Love books, period.

If you are interested, please email Harlie at maw1725@gmail.com with the subject titled: Administrator

Serious inquiries, only.

Thanks.

Dawn's Desire (Dark Kings Book #3) by Donna Grant

2012-09-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

ISBN-13: 978-1466807457

Ebook Only

Dark Kings #3

September 25, 2012

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dawns-desire-donna-grant/1112484039?ean=9781466807457

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008V9Y648?ie=UTF8&creativeASIN=B008V9Y648&linkCode=xm2&tag=donnagranthis-20

Dawn’s Desire

For centuries, the immortals knows as the Dragon Kings have hidden their shapeshifting powers from the world. But when a mortal enemy threatens to expose them, the warrior Banan must leave his secret lair in the Highlands, risk his life for the dragons within – and resist the temptations of human love…

Jane Holden has never considered herself beautiful. But when the impossibly handsome Banan casts his gaze upon her, smoldering with sensuality, she feels like the sexiest woman on earth. Banan, however, is a man on a mission. He refuses to succumb to this modern woman’s charms – or his own desires. Two of his warrior brethren have already surrendered to forbidden love. But as the danger closes in, Banan realizes that he needs to possess Jane – mind, body, and soul. For she is more than his match.

She is his destiny…

“Jane!” Richard’s voice shouted again through the desk phone.

She hurriedly rose to her feet, only to be stopped by Elena’s hand on her arm.

“He treats you poorly,” Elena said, her sage green eyes holding a wealth of sadness and a measure of anger.

Jane shrugged. “Yes, but it’s a good job, and I really like my flat. In order to keep it, I need the money he’s paying me.”

“Jane!” This time his voice bellowed through the door.

Elena’s brows snapped together. “I don’t care. No one should be treated like that. Don’t let him do it to you, Jane.”

Jane wanted to acknowledge Elena was right, but when she needed every penny earned, a begger couldn’t be choosy.

“Thank you,” she said before she rushed to see what he needed, only to find herself running errands more suited to a mailroom clerk.

Richard kept her dashing about the rest of the day. She even missed lunch. When she finally looked up from the letter she was drafting to grab a drink of water she noticed it was after six.

Then she saw the sticky note on her computer. She was supposed to go with a company driver and pick up a client at the airport a half hour ago.

Jane grabbed her purse and ran to the elevator. Fortunately she didn’t have to wait long for it to arrive, but every second felt like an eternity. She could just imagine how Mr. Arnold would react when he learned she’d been late to pick up his client.

By the time she reached the bottom floor, she had all kinds of excuses lined up to present the client, as well as ways to make it up to them.

Jane pushed open the door and her foot came out of her shoe. She tried to turn around to get it only to find people behind her, stomping on her shoe. Jane waited for them to move so she could get her shoe and put it back on her foot.

A rumble of thunder greeted her on sidewalk as she straightened. A quick look around showed her there was no car waiting. Had they left? Had Richard sent someone else and not told her?

A sick feeling began in her stomach. She blew out a breath and moved to the side of the building so she could lean against it. The day hadn’t started off well, and it was ending even worse.

“You look like you could use a drink.”

Banan
Banan has never had a problem using humans to help further hide the Dragon Kings. Not once has he ever thought twice about lying regarding who he was to get what he wants. After all, he'd been one of the Kings who had fought to save mankind.

But all that changes the moment he sees Jane Holden. It's his duty to get close to her and discover any secrets she might have regarding the Kings, but when her life is threatened, Banan doesn't hesitate to save her. Or show her who he really is.

Dragon Color:	Dark Blue
Power:	Hallucinations
Favored Region:	Mountains

Banan has never had a problem using humans to help further hide the Dragon Kings. Not once has he ever thought twice about lying regarding who he was to get what he wants. After all, he'd been one of the Kings who had fought to save mankind.

But all that changes the moment he sees Jane Holden. It's his duty to get close to her and discover any secrets she might have regarding the Kings, but when her life is threatened, Banan doesn't hesitate to save her. Or show her who he really is.

Donna is Giving away a Kindle or Nook copy of

Book 2 in the Dark Kings series, Night's Awakening

to one lucky commenter today!

Be sure to check out ALL the Stops on Donna's

Dawn's Desire Blog Tour for new blurbs every day ~

and a new chance to WIN!

Sept 23rd ~~ www.thejeepdiva.com

Sept. 24th ~~ http://queenofthenightreviews.blogspot.com

Sept. 25th ~~ http://www.books-n-kisses.com/

Sept. 26th ~~ http://hangingwithbells.blogspot.com/

Sept. 27th. ~~ http://maw25.wordpress.com/

Sept. 28th ~~ http://harliebooks.blogspot.com

Sept. 29th ~~ http://jacaburintexas.blogspot.com

Sept. 30th ~~ http://www.booklovinmamas.blogspot.com/

Oct. 1st ~~ http://zcrazyartist.blogspot.com

Oct. 2nd ~~ http://www.lovetoreadforfun.com/

Oct. 3rd ~~ www.simplyali.com

Oct. 4th ~~ http://mimmismusings.blogspot.com/

Oct. 5th ~~ http://underthecoversbookblog.blogspot.com/

2nd stop ~ http://bookmonsterreviews.blogspot.com/

Oct. 6th ~~ http://nikkibrandyberry.wordpress.com/

Donna Grant has been praised for her “totally addictive” and “unique and sensual” stories. She's the author of more than twenty novels spanning multiple genres of romance—Scottish Medieval, dark fantasy, time travel, paranormal, and erotic. Her latest acclaimed series, Dark Sword, features a thrilling combination of Druids, primeval gods, and immortal Highlanders who are dark, dangerous, and irresistible. She lives with her husband, two children, a dog, and three cats in Texas.
Learn more about Donna Grant and her books here --
http://www.donnagrant.com/category/books/?series=dark-kings

The Dark Kings series is a spin off the Dark Warriors series and Dark Sword series.

Read all three of The Dark Kings Books ~~

Dark Craving
Dark Kings #1
July 31, 2012

Night’s Awakening
Dark Kings #2
August 28, 2012

Dawn’s Desire
Dark Kings #3
September 25, 2012

Cassandra by Starlight by Suan Mac Nicol - First Chapter/Giveaway

2012-09-28T02:00:00.000-05:00

BLURB:

Cassandra by Starlight

by SUSAN MAC NICOL

A London woman is swept off her feet into the glamorous yet surprisingly dangerous world of an up-and-coming star of stage and screen.

TO CATCH A RISING STAR

Unconventional though she may be, Cassandra Wallace leads the life of an average Londoner, from blind dates to rush hour traffic. Then, along comes Bennett Saville. Charming, erudite, the up-and-coming actor is like the hero of a romantic movie. He sets Cassie afire like he has the stage and screen, and defies the tragedy that brought them together. From the tips of his Armani loafers to their scorching hot first kiss, he’s perfect. Only, he’s ten years younger and from the upper class, and those emerald eyes invite dangerous secrets. The world is full of hungry leading ladies, and every show must have its villain. Yet a true romance will always find its happy ending.

Chapter 1

The day the sky fell changed Cassie Wallace’s world forever. She woke up that morning with the expectation that this day would be like any other. She also had a slight hangover from the abundance of wine she’d drunk the night before to try and get through a blind date organized by her work colleague, Sarah.

The evening had been a total disaster. Not only had the man been an absolute misogynist, one of the cardinal male sins on Cassie’s unwritten list, he’d also had a habit of leering at her chest every time he spoke as if he thought it might talk back to him.

She’d smiled politely whilst thinking she’d like to take his smarmy public school tie and shove it down his throat. When she’d finally left at around eleven, she hadn’t been able to get away fast enough.

She stood in her bedroom, checking her outfit in the mirror and sighed.

Was it too much to ask to find a decent man just to share things with and have a good time? They all seemed to be absolute idiots and in the old but true cliché, only interested in one thing.

Cassie had been out on a few dates in the past few months but somehow she never made it past the first one. A previous date gone wrong had told her she was too independent and perhaps a little bit ‘emotionally challenged, not affectionate enough’ for him.

She’d shrugged this off but it had hurt her deep down especially as she knew it to be true.

My bloody expectations aren’t even that high, she thought in exasperation as she

fastened her necklace. It’s not as if I’m such a great bloody catch myself! Middle-aged and not really all that exciting. I’ll take what I can get within reason.

Cassie smoothed her skirt down over her hips and picked up her handbag.

When she left the house at six thirty, it was a typical dark English winter morning. Fortyfive minutes later she was sitting in the traffic on the motorway, listening to the news bulletin.

“Bloody idiot,” she mumbled in between bites of a banana that she had hastily grabbed on her way out. “He wouldn’t know a bloody budget if his life depended on it. Silly sod has got no idea how to run a bloody country.”

She crept forward in her Honda Jazz at about two miles an hour, watching the traffic in front which seemed to have ground to a halt for no reason at all.

I really need to try and find something closer to home, she thought, not for the first time. This travelling lark is really starting to piss me off. Four hours a day in traffic is not my idea of time well spent.

Cassie wasn’t sure what other quality pastimes she’d be engaging in if she did have more free time, given her current ‘lack of male’ situation but she supposed she’d find something. Join a book club perhaps, or find more time to get to the gym. She might even start writing that novel she’d always planned on doing.

Her fingers impatiently drummed on the steering wheel in time to a melody on the radio. In response to another bulletin by the newscaster regarding the level of binge drinking in the county, she burst into a further diatribe. “For God’s sake, let the bloody idiots lay where they fall. If they had any brains they wouldn’t let it get that far so they needed an ambulance to take them to A and E. It’s my taxpaying money that’s looking after these morons!”

She glanced at the clock on the display. Seven thirty a.m. She’d be lucky to make it in on time today.

The story of my life, she thought resignedly. Slow death by traffic jam.

The traffic still seemed to show no signs of moving any time soon. She switched off the engine and took out her Kindle. She may as well catch up on her reading whilst she had nothing better to do.

Her concentration span was low as she tried to read. Last night’s ‘date’ kept replaying itself in random snippets of conversation. Cassie could still hear Ron’s supercilious comment about women needing to have a man in their lives to keep them focused on what was important—the man and the provision of all his needs.

She’d almost choked on her wine when she’d heard this and only just stopped herself retorting sarcastically that as a man’s needs were so simple, the only ‘provision’ they really needed was a soft toy shaped like a pair of boobs to play with and talk at. As she had very little money in her purse other than her taxi fare home, she’d stopped herself.

After the hell she’d been through sitting and listening to Ron’s drivel, the least she’d make him do was pay for dinner. Cassie had made a decision after last night. She’d stay home with her own company for the near future, with a bottle of wine and a couple of decent movies. She’d rather drool over a virtual Mark Harmon in NCIS than a real life douche bag like the Ronalds of his world. As for sex—well, that was what vibrators were made for.

It was nearly ten minutes later before the car in front of her re-started its engine and she followed suit and sped up to about twenty miles an hour as the queue took flight. She settled in as it got back up to the more respectable speed of fifty miles an hour.

As she drove she glanced idly up at the foot bridges to see the people strolling with dogs, on bicycles and footing it on their way to work.

At the bridge just ahead she saw a solitary figure leaning over looking down at the motorway below. She slowed down a little. Ever since those incidents a few weeks ago when someone had thrown a concrete bucket off the bridge at a passing car, she tended to be wary of people standing watching the traffic.

The figure didn’t appear to have anything in its hands but then she had only caught a glimpse of it before turning her eyes back to the road. She increased her speed as the traffic flowed easier.

There was no warning, just a sudden deafening bang of metal as the windscreen of her car collapsed inwards. Cassie screamed in terror as glass flew towards her like wafer thin slivers from a frozen icicle. Her hands left the steering wheel in panic, her foot pressing down on the accelerator.

The Honda Jazz went out of control, spinning around like a dirt dervish. Debris from the windscreen flew like lethal missiles around the interior of the car. Cassie cried out in pain as she was subject to a vicious assault by anything lying loose in her vehicle. She tried to cover her face in an instinctive reflex but her left arm seemed unresponsive. The pain horrifying. She whimpered as she glanced down and saw the bone shard sticking out.

In her pain and terror she didn’t notice that the car had stopped spinning. Everything went quiet. Cassie lay slumped in the driver seat, dazed and unresponsive as the shock set in She could hear the sounds of people shouting and heard someone asking her if she was all right.

She vaguely registered the sound of screeching metal as someone tried to pull the driver door open. It was as if everything was being done underwater. The sounds were muted and her brain was sluggish.

The older man looking in at her from the road was speaking but she couldn’t hear what he was saying. Cassie looked at him blankly. She couldn’t see clearly, as if a can of fine red spray-paint had been aimed at her and the nozzle depressed, coating her eyes. She tried to move her body but the pain in her right leg was excruciating.

She watched dully as the man outside starting pulling away metal struts and twisted the door to get inside to her. She could hear his voice vaguely now, a rough London Cockney accent as he spoke reassuringly whilst trying to free her.

“All right, darling? Just stay calm and I’ll try and get to you. The ambulance is on its way. They’ve told me not to move you so I just want to try get in and keep you company till they arrive. You look as if you could do with a bit of company. Just stay with me now. Don’t go anywhere.”

He smiled at her, trying to keep her reassured. With a final tug at the door, he made enough of a space to squeeze in slightly and he took her right hand, avoiding the bad condition of her left arm with its broken bone. Her hand was freezing and he rubbed it gently.

“There we go. That should feel better. You just stay calm now and we’ll have you back to your old man in no time.” He continued holding her hand, talking to her as she slipped in and out of consciousness.

In one of her lucid periods she raised an unsteady hand to her face to wipe her eyes. The fog cleared a little and she was able to focus, then desperately wished she hadn’t. Lying in front of her, across the bonnet, was a face, pulped and looking as if dark sticky jam had been smeared all over it.

She could see the eyes open, looking at her and she could see the mouth forming words before she screamed and screamed and eventually the fog of blackness claimed her and the face could be seen no more.

Doctor Ian Spencer frowned as he read the patient chart in his hand. He glanced at the patient, an old man in his seventies, matted grey hair curling around his face like tendrils of an octopus, framing a bucolic face of cherry red, his bulbous nose caked with fresh snot.

“Up to your old tricks again, Terry?” the ER doctor asked resignedly. “I thought perhaps last time we had reached an understanding of sorts?”

The old man chuckled hoarsely.

“The drink beckoned again, Doctor, I’ve told you before, cider waits for no man.” He coughed, his body wracked with spasms. The doctor motioned with a hand to the waiting nurse who offered Terry a glass of water. He drank it greedily and lay back in the hospital bed.

Ian Spencer made a notation in his patient’s chart.

“You realise this time, Terry, you’ve really outdone yourself? You had what we call a minor varicose bleed which basically means your insides leaked with blood because they couldn’t do what they were supposed to do. I managed to stabilise you and you’ve been in intensive care for two days. Given the state of your liver you were very lucky not to have it worse. As it is, you’ll need to be here a few more days before I can release you.”

“I’m very grateful to you, Doctor.” Terry leered at the nurse who moved out of the way of his groping left hand. “I can always count on you to put me right.”

“Not always, Terry, not always.” Ian passed the chart to the nurse and continued on his way.

He’d just completed his surgical rounds and was walking down the hospital corridor when he heard an ambulance arrive and saw the frenetic activity bursting through the double doors. He heard the ambulance staff calling out their incoming triage procedures to the attending doctor and watched as a trolley with a woman covered in blood was wheeled into the waiting operating theatre.

One of the staff nurses, Judy, a good friend, hurried past him.

“I don’t believe this one,” she muttered to him. “Some poor woman minding her own business on the motorway and somebody falls on top of her car. We were lucky no one else was hurt as well when she spun around or we’d be running out of space this morning.”

“What about the man who fell?”

“He’s dead, poor bugger.” Judy’s voice was terse as she hurried off.

It was some hours later in passing Ian saw his colleague, fellow trauma surgeon Phil Moodley, come out of the operating theatre where the woman had been wheeled.

“Phil!” Ian hurried to catch up with him. “Wait up.”

Phil turned and proffered a tired smile when he saw Ian.

“Ian, how are things? I’m just on my way to catch a few minutes doze. It’s been a long day.”

“How did things go in there?” Ian motioned to the OR. “I heard she was hit by a man falling on her car.”

“Yes, it was very bad. The poor woman has a ruptured spleen, a hairline skull fracture, a broken femur and radius, and a wealth of lacerations and internal bruising.” He frowned.

“She also has a small foreign body embedded in her left temple. It’s in an awkward place and fairly deep. I’ve recommended not removing it at this time. I’m not sure it would be prudent. It doesn’t appear itself to be life threatening. She’ll be in intensive care for some time. I need to keep an eye on her for any possible embolism. She’ll probably need some physical therapy afterwards if there are no complications.”

He squinted at Ian with tired eyes. “You seem interested in this one, Ian? Did you know anyone involved?”

Ian shook his head. “I was involved in a similar situation some years ago when I was at Lakeview Hospital and that one—that one I did know. The person that fell though, not the victim.”

Phil nodded his head.

“This woman was very lucky, the young man was not. He was dead at the scene. His relatives are on their way.”

Ian nodded. “Thanks, Phil. You’d best get off and get that sleep, you look all out of it.”

Phil patted Ian’s arm and wandered down towards the staff room. Ian wouldn’t tell Phil the real reason for his interest. It was too personal and no one in the hospital knew anything about his reason for leaving Lakeview three years ago and joining Tilhurst Hospital on the outskirts of Essex.

In 2009, his wife Sandra had jumped off a foot bridge straight into the path of a passing mini-van. To this day he had no idea why. The mini-van driver, a young man called Freddy Clifford, who had just become a father, had died in the incident with Sandy. The feelings of guilt for both Sandy’s and the man’s death (he should’ve known what was going on in his own marriage for God’s sake!) had never left him.

He’d left Lakeview and started again where no one knew his history and no one could feel sympathy for him. He felt he didn’t deserve it. He was sure a psychiatrist would have some insight to offer on his reaction but he had never engaged with one, preferring as he did to manage it himself.

Ian made his way over to the nurses’ station outside intensive care. He saw Nurse Angie, a bubbly young woman with bleached blonde hair and a Carry On set of breasts, sitting behind the desk. She smiled as she saw him approach.

There were more than a couple of nurses who’d tried to form a relationship with him but none of them had been successful so far.

“Doctor. What can I do for you?”

“The woman that Dr. Patel has just operated on—can you tell me a little bit about her?

How’s she doing?”

Angie consulted her notes.

“Let me see. Hmm, she’s in a private ICU room, so she must have great insurance. Room 310. Cassie Wallace, forty-seven years old, divorced. Her sister is coming in to see her. She’s on her way from Kent.”

She looked at Ian enquiringly. “Has Dr. Patel asked you to keep an eye on her?”

Ian shook his head. “No, just curious about how she’s doing. It just seems so tragic, minding your own business then POW! You find yourself in this situation. Thanks for the info, Angie.”

Ian made his way towards Room 310. He couldn’t say why he was so interested in this woman, only that he felt he had to find out more about her.

He clothed himself up with a mask and gloves and nodded at the ICU nurses as he walked through the main ward to the private ones at the back. The hum of machines and the absolute quiet in the ward was strangely restful. Ian reached Room 310, opened the door and slipped in.

Cassie Wallace lay on her back, surrounded by soft light from the equipment. The constant beep of the life support machines and monitoring equipment comforted Ian. This unit was dedicated to keeping people alive with the best care the hospital could provide. Cassie Wallace was in good hands.

Cassie had her left arm in a splint, her fingers cold and pale like soft, limp white gloves. Her right leg with its broken femur rested on the bed covers. Ian guessed she had pins and rods inside keeping it together.

Her face was battered and bruised from the accident. He could see the rise and fall of her chest as she breathed. Her pale strawberry blonde hair was spread across the pillow like soft gold straw, with a large bald patch on the left side where Dr Patel had shaved her skull.

Even through the cuts and bruises, Ian could see she was a very attractive woman. Not just pretty or beautiful, but with a look of her own that even under current circumstances made her look younger than her forty-seven years. She reminded him very much of a curvier Michelle Pfeiffer. A noise at the door made him turn. Judy stood there, looking surprised to see him.

“Ian? What are you doing in here?” she whispered.

“I was just checking up on her. I know I’m not her doctor but I really wanted to see how she was doing.”

“It’s all right, Ian.” Judy patted him on the arm. “She can do with all the help she can get. I need to check her vital signs now. Do you want to stick around?”

“No Judes, I’ll let you get on with your job. Thanks.” Ian left the nurse with her patient and made his way back towards the main reception.

BIO:

Sue Mac Nicol was born in Headingley, Leeds, in the United Kingdom. When she was eight years old her family emigrated to Johannesburg, South Africa. One day, after yet another horrific story of violence to friends, they decided it was time to leave. In December 2000 they found themselves in the Arrivals area at Heathrow and have stayed in the UK ever since, loving every minute of it.

In between her day job as a regulatory compliance officer for a financial services company in Cambridge and normal daily life, the inspiration for the Starlight series was born; Sue’s characters, Cassie and Bennett, finally made their debut onto the flickering screen of a laptop and gave her the opportunity to become a published author—a dream she’s had since being a young girl old enough to hold a pencil.

Sue is a member of the Romance Writers of America and the Romantic Novelists Association in the UK. She lives in a town house in the rural village of Bocking, Essex, with her husband of twenty eight years, Gary (who believes he deserves a long service award for putting up with her for so long), two children, Jason, 24, and Ashley, 19, and a mixed collie mongrel called Blu.

BUY NOW LINK:

· All Romance

· Amazon

· Smashwords

ONLINE LINKS:

Susan Mac Nicol Online:

Website http://www.boroughspublishinggroup.com

Blog http://www.boroughspublishinggroup.com/blog

Facebook http://www.facebook.com/boroughspublishing

Twitter http://www.twitter.com/BoroughsPubGrp

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Cassandra by Starlight - Susan Mac Nicol-Review Blitz

2012-09-24T01:22:00.001-05:00

BLURB:

Cassandra by Starlight

by SUSAN MAC NICOL

A London woman is swept off her feet into the glamorous yet surprisingly dangerous world of an up-and-coming star of stage and screen.

TO CATCH A RISING STAR

Review:

After just reading the first chapter, I knew that I would stay up well into the read to finish this book. And yes, I did just that. The first chapter reads like any other start to a romance book and then BAM, you are head first in a plot that you have no idea where its gonna lead you and where its going to end.

Cassandra was minding her own business, sitting in traffic one morning when the unthinkable happens to her. Enter Bennett Saville; suave, sexy, younger and seemingly interested in her. But why? There's an age gap between them. She's not as pretty as his last girlfriend. Cassandra has no idea what lies ahead of her when she meets Bennett, she knows that her world will never be the same again.

When Bennett got the call that no one ever wants to receive, he reaches out to Cassandra and finds that he likes her. She intrigues him like no other woman has. Dealing with being a television/stage actor and all that ensues with it, he is more than ready to see where his relationship with Cassandra will led him.

The family dynamic in this book is wonderful. Between Bennett's mother and father; Cassandra's sister and her sister's partner, it works. Cassandra and Bennett are from two totally different backgrounds but when they are together, nothing and no one else matters. The friends that they have between them are well written secondary characters. Not intrusive but necessary for Cassandra's and Bennett's growth as individuals and as a couple. Dylan, straight up is hilarious!!! Just saying.

I can not tell how wonderful it was to read a British author and find that her publisher didn't try to change her voice. British authors have a way with making a Yankee, even worse a Southern like myself, wish that they lived in England. They way the characters talk; what they eat; how their hospitals work; just everything is laid out in a such a way that even a dumb Southern understands what is being said and why. I hate when publishers try to change an author's voice. Bravo for not doing this in this book.

If you are wondering why I haven't mention the sex in the book well, its not graphic in nature but its there. Loving, sometimes animalistic, and also emotional. Another thing that I'm glad Susan didn't do was make Cassandra hate her body and herself for being older. Trust me, the age gap is NOT an issue in the bedroom. Read and you know what I'm saying...

The suspense element that is woven in this book is very well thought out and nicely played. My only problem with the book is that it was slow read for me. I felt like that some parts of the book were too drawn out and somewhat lagged. Finding out who did what to whom and where was different, too. Again, its that BAM factor again. You are reading along and than BAM. Bravo for keeping it real, too. The author touches on some issues that are normally not brought up in a romance novel and it was refreshing to see how her characters reacted to them.

Overall, I would recommend Cassandra by Starlight for its leisurely pace, brilliant British voice and two characters that I already miss. Cassandra and Bennett took ahold of me and now have a permanent place in my heart.

4 1/2 Harlies and a recommended read

BIO:

BUY NOW LINK:

· All Romance

· Amazon

· Smashwords

ONLINE LINKS:

Susan Mac Nicol Online:

Website http://www.boroughspublishinggroup.com

Blog http://www.boroughspublishinggroup.com/blog

Facebook http://www.facebook.com/boroughspublishing

Twitter http://www.twitter.com/BoroughsPubGrp

Demon's Caress (Book #1 Demon Heat) by Crystal Jordan

2012-09-21T01:00:00.000-05:00

Feel the burn.

Demon Heat, Book 1

Usually, Maron is the hunter—a demon sent to earth to imprison evil souls and hurl them into the pit. It’s a dirty, thankless job, but someone has to take out the trash. By necessity, demons need a partner to tag ’em and bag ’em. Since her partner got roped into a Demon Triad, though, she’s stuck with just the tagging part until her boss sends reinforcements.

Her backup turns out to be the last two men she wants to see. Two bonded demons who’ve been trying to seduce her into a Triad for months. Sure, the Triad’s sexual bonds generate phenomenal soul-trapping power. Give up her independence? Never. Still, it’s quite a thrill to be the hunted, for a change.

Since a night of debauchery in which the three of them experienced a level of power that’s nothing short of explosive, Raum and Kobal have been maneuvering to complicate her eternity…and make her like it. She thinks she’s the most relentless demon hunter around? She ain’t seen nothin’ yet. They’re determined to claim her heart and body…if they can cage the evil soul they’ve been sent to capture.

Product Warnings

Three demons doing very wicked things to each other. Guy on guy, guy on girl, guy on guy on girl, and any other combination they can think of. Some anal, a little flameball throwing, a few evil souls sent down to hell. All in a day’s work. Hey, they’re born to be bad…and they’re so good at it.

Review:

I am not a virgin to Crystal's books by any means. Her Unbelievable series from Samhain is awesome and I highly recommend it. But holy cow, why did I wait so long to read Demon's Caress? Apparently too long. This book came out in early January and I'm just now reading it. Shame on me for waiting. And if you know me, I abhor waiting!

As most know, I'm not a huge paranormal junkie like everyone else but I do love angels and demons. There are so many ways that you can write about angels and demons. Crystal's take on demons is original, sexy and believable. The world that she has built for her demons is fantastic because hey, its everyday life among the humans. It made sense to this reader and I didn't need a primer to figure everything out.

Raum and Kobal are demons that are as different as night and day. Perfect for each other but needing that third for their Triad. After one night with Maron long ago, they knew that she was the one. Maron, on the other hand had been badly burned when she bonded with her partner and never really got over it.

Maron is you. Me. And everyone other woman that has been badly burned in a relationship before. I felt her need to love and be accepted but I understood her closed off emotions from Raum and Kobal. What she thought she needed wasn't what she needed after all.

After I finished reading this book, I felt a little bereft. Crystal's books read fast but they are never rushed. You just get sucked into them and before you know it, its over. With your pulse racing and heart hammering long after the last word, you realize that you have been seduced into a world that Crystal has created and you want to go back. *sigh*

5 Harlie's and a "when's the next book in the series coming out?" Because I abhor waiting.

Recommended read by Harlie

No Strings Attached by Jennifer Labelle Review/Giveaway

2012-09-19T01:30:00.000-05:00

Title: No Strings Attached

Series: DP's The EDGE Series

Author: Jennifer Labelle

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Length: 20 pages/5,400 words

Genres: Contemporary Erotic Romance

Heat Level: Sizzling

AVAILABLE AT

Decadent Publishing:

http://www.decadentpublishing.com/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=182&products_id=581&osCsid=6c1232251c1e45744bd0b3ee7262f414

Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Strings-Attached-Edge-Series-ebook/dp/B008KEUFP8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1342131379&sr=8-2&keywords=no+strings+attached+decadent

Barnes & Noble:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/no-strings-attached-jennifer-labelle/1112060964?ean=2940014606080

BookStrand:

http://www.bookstrand.com/no-strings-attached-2

All Romance E-Books (ARe):

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-nostringsattached-870974-166.html

EXCERPT #3

Her nerves slowly evaporated during the five minute drive from her house to the pub, and before she knew it, she was exiting the car. They made their way to the door, and stood inside for a minute to let their eyes adjust to the dim atmosphere.

Shots was a lot larger than it looked from the outside but still had a cozy feel to it. Big booths lined the walls on either side, with tables in the middle. A few pool tables sat off to the left, arcade machines near the bathroom, and various vintage wall decorations, old license plates, pictures, and rock memorabilia to enjoy.

“Do you see him yet?” She headed straight for the bar and decided to look around. The pub wasn’t particularly busy, and she’d hoped it would be easy to spot him. No such luck.

“Nope. Let’s grab a drink in the meantime.” Anna took one more look around the bar. “Damn it, will you be okay for a minute? I really need to use the ladies room.”

“Already? We just got here.”

“I know, I know. I’ll try to be quick. Order a drink for me, will ya? I’ll only be a minute. I promise.” She waved behind her and hurried away.

“Can I help you?”

“Yeah, I’ll take a couple of Screwdrivers, please.” She handed the bartender some money, and rummaged in her purse for the picture of Ryan that she’d brought.

Large hands wrapped around her hips, a solid body pressed her closer to the bar, and what felt like an impressive erection poked her behind. Ryan.

“Your picture doesn’t do you justice,” his deep baritone said. Ryan’s lips grazed her ear, his hot breath against her earlobe giving her goose bumps, and she shivered. “And all I can think about is lifting this sexy dress, squeezing that luscious ass, and taking you from behind.” He ground his hips against her again and sucked on her lobe.

“Well I hope that means that I look even better.”

“Without a doubt.” He snickered and stepped back so she could turn around to face him.

His dark hair had a slight wave to it. He wore it a little long so that it curled at the nape of his neck. Big dark eyes watched her with a predatory stare, as if he wanted to devour her on the spot. Her nipples puckered in response. Broad shoulders, impressive arms, and ripped abs outlined his slim fitting khaki T-shirt as she peered lower. Perfect fitting camouflage pants encased thick thighs and that impressive cock she’d felt against her ass moments before. He smiled while she finished checking out his goods and she winked with a silent promise of sinful things to come. That is, if he passed Anna’s inspection, too. She wasn’t getting any weird vibes. In fact, she couldn’t think about anything other than his sexy words, and impressive body. Her inner slut surfaced, and hoped she’d be going home with him real soon.

“You’re quite impressive yourself.”

Review:

I am so loving the Edge line from Decadent. Perfect short stories for the one the go reader. Jennifer does not disappoint with Ryan and Julie. From the very begining word, I was totally taken for a wild ride and I'm glad I did.

The beginning of the book sets the tone and we instantly get to know the characters. They both have demanding careers that leave little time for committment so why not a little nookie every now and then. Perfect set up right? Julie is having second thoughts but with a nudge from her friend, she goes through with it.

The dialogue, action and feelings were spot on for such a short story. They cut to the chase early and never stopped. *fans self* What made it different was the email exchange before they actually met. It made sense, I didn't feel rushed at all.

My only problem with the story was that I hope Jennifer has a follow up story about Julie and Ryan. I really loved this people and would like to read more about them.

5 Harlie's and find yourself a military man quick!

REVIEW

"The author has thoroughly seduced me and left me a panting mess with this sexy, hot quickie. I loved it..."~MsRomanticReads, Michelle W.

http://msromanticreads.blogspot.ca/2012/08/review-jennifer-labelle-no-strings.html

AUTHOR BIO

Jennifer Labelle resides in Ottawa, Ontario Canada with her husband and three beautiful children. After her third child she became a stay at home mom. In her busy household Jennifer likes to spend her down time engrossed in the stories that she creates. She is an active reader of romance (especially historical), mystery and anything paranormal. With an education in Addictions work she's decided to take a less stressful approach in life and hopes that you enjoy, as she shares some of her imagination with all of you.

Website: http://www.jenniferlabelle.com

Blog: http://labellebooks.blogspot.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/1jenniferlabell

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4649930.Jennifer_Labelle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Jennifer-Labelle/168414043184292

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Link to Schedule: http://cblspromotions.blogspot.com/2012/09/scheduled-vbt-no-strings-attached-edge.html

The Power of Three by Jessica E. Subject Review/Giveaway

2012-09-18T02:00:00.000-05:00

Title: The Power of Three

Series: DP’s The EDGE Series

Author: Jessica E. Subject

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Length: 4,500 words

Genres: Erotic Paranormal Romance (Time-Travel, M/F/M, M/M/F)

Heat Level: Sizzling

AVAILABLE AT

Decadent Publishing:

http://www.decadentpublishing.com/product_info.php?products_id=587&osCsid=98a84t8vqlahkk21b3ejqevre4

Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Power-Three-Edge-Series-ebook/dp/B008MP36YM/

Barnes & Noble

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-power-of-three-jessica-e-subject/1112147522?ean=2940014966825

All Romance eBooks

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thepowerofthree-884414-140.html

For more buy links and information, please visit: http://www.markofthestars.com/wp/?page_id=10029

BLURB

Cursed to live amongst several stone gargoyle statues, Oscar watches a young couple, yearning to participate in their sexual activities. For he has been away from his own lovers for over a year, and longs to touch and be touched again.

When he tumbles off the headboard onto the couple, he is released from the statue but must find a way home. His only thought: a ménage with the man and woman who freed him. But will they try something new to grant him his return passage, or leave him wandering Earth alone?

EXCERPT #3

“I’m from Wigbay,” [Oscar] stated. “I’m not sure how to explain where that is except to say, it’s in another dimension. I was sent here, trapped as a spirit inside your gargoyle statues when I refused to take on another female lover.”

On the day he’d been sucked away from his life partners, Catalis had arrived at his shared home, shouting curses and calling him out for not taking her as his mate. Against their advice, he left Lianna and Lewis on the love platform, anxious to dispose of their unwelcome visitor. But she had other ideas.

When he met her outdoors, she waved her arms in wide circles, uttering an ancient chant. Her malicious words drew the air around them into a swirling mass. Without the combined power of his mates, he was weak to stop her. Catalis used an energy field to bind him then tossed him into the center of the twister. Lianna and Lewis raced out the door and launched themselves onto the sorceress, but they were too late.

“You were in our statues?”

Oscar blinked hard, returning his attention to his hosts.

Bo’s eyes grew wide, his face a mess of contradictory emotions.

“Another lover?” Delayna asked.

“I’ve been able to move amongst the gargoyles you own for the past year. It feels like forever since I’ve seen Lianna and Lewis—my mates, my lovers.” A wave of sorrow threatened to wash over him, but one glimpse of the sparkle in her eyes brought back his immediate need.

“You’ve been spying on us for a year?” Bo turned to his wife. “I don’t believe this shit about being trapped, but there could be hidden cameras in your statues. I swear, Delayna. I’m throwing every single one of them away as soon as we get this whackjob out of the house.”

“Please, Bo.” She whispered something in his ear and he smiled until he caught Oscar looking at him.

Bo stood up, letting the pillow fall to the floor. “Like what you see?”

He smiled, taking in the man’s full figure, each rippled muscle, his thick arms, legs, and luscious cock. “Oh, yeah.”

Delayna giggled again, tossing the sheet aside. She spun around as if eager for him to see all she had to offer.

Yet he already knew and was eager to sample. Oh, to be sandwiched between these two.

Bo scowled, but his betraying shaft stood up even straighter. “So, what the hell do we do now? How do we get you back to wherever-the-fuck you’re from?”

An idea formed in his mind, one that would leave him satisfied in so many ways. These two had set him free from his prison of stone gargoyles. Perhaps they could send him back to his sanctuary as well? “A ménage? It was your combined touch that unleashed me in the first place.”

Bo’s face turned red. With clenched fists, he stepped closer, his nostrils flared. “Get. Out.”

Delayna squeezed between them. If only they could move that position to the bed, against a wall, anywhere.

“Maybe…if he just watches…?” She chewed on her bottom lip, making him yearn for a taste. If her flavor matched her scent, he would sample cherries with every lap of his tongue. Gods, let’s get started.

Bo grabbed her shoulders. “You believe him?”

She nodded. “He appeared out of nowhere. You saw it, too.”

Glancing down at the crumbled statue, Bo sighed.

“It might be exciting to have someone watch us. You always like to try new things.” She stroked his pole then moved to the side, waving Oscar closer. “And maybe you could teach him some of your stellar moves.”

Review:

Okay, she had me at time travel...I'm a sucker for a time travel story. Throw in a gargoyle and I'm your girl. I bet yall didn't know that about me. I love them both. Gargoyle's are a different form of paranormal and not one that is written about alot. Immediately, I was hooked.

For such a short story, I immediately felt connected with all three characters. Oscar was trapped but yearned for his own lovers touch so watching Bo and Delayna was pure hell for him. Being cursed and trapped in stone with a raging libido was not good. All Oscar wanted was to go home.

Bo and Delayna didn't know what to think when a gargoyle statue fell on Bo's head right after having sex. After revealing in shock and dismay with Oscar's story, passion soon took over for all three. Good heavens, the sex is completely off the charts between all three of them. Part fantasy, part necessary and part lust, it was pure magic. I like it when a man throws down the rules in a menage that really isn't supposed to happen and then for him to get totally turned on by it? *fans self* Yes, it was that good.

While The Power of Three is a short story it covered all the bases for me. Great plot, characters that I cared about, a touch of paranormal and time travel and hot smexy!!!

Great job Jessica and I really need to read Celestial Seduction and Beneath the Starry Sky.

5 Harlie's and a great getcha in the mood story *wink*

AUTHOR BIO

Jessica Subject started writing to encourage her daughter to read. Now she writes to keep herself grounded. Although she reads many genres, she enjoys writing Science Fiction Romance the most and believes everyone in the universe deserves a happily ever after. She lives Southwestern Ontario, Canada with her husband and two kids and loves to hear from anyone who has enjoyed her stories.

Website/Blog: http://jessicasubject.com

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/jsubject

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jessica-E-Subject-author/205759796126370

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/jessicasubject

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Blood Spirit by Gabrielle Bisset Book Blitz presented by BTS

2012-09-17T03:00:00.000-05:00

Title: Blood Spirit (Sons of Navarus #3)
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance
Author: Gabrielle Bisset
Release Date: September 17, 2012 (Print and ebook)

Blurb:

I am everything you seek. I am vampire.

Blessed with the gift of telepathy, Terek always knows what a woman wants. His gift has afforded him nightly sensual pleasures and exotic treats for centuries, but beneath the surface he yearns for much more.

Ilona can give him what his soul craves, but only if he trusts his heart. One fateful choice made out of desire puts all he cares for in danger. With a civil war and the threat of Archon hunters at every turn, this Son may lose everything if he can't find the balance between heart and mind.

Author Bio:

I'm a romance author and my newest release is Blood Spirit, the third book in my new PNR series, Sons of Navarus, and the sequel to Book #1, Blood Avenged, and Book #2, Blood Betrayed.

For me, there's nothing like a sexy, strong hero and his wonderful heroine ending up happily ever after (or for more erotic romance, happily for now). I write mostly paranormal romance, but I always love to mix in some history too.

When I'm not writing, I can be found reading, romance novels but often mysteries, cookbooks, and anything dealing with ancient and medieval history and European history, in general. I also love the outdoors, so I enjoy the wonderful weather Pennsylvania has to offer. I live there with my son and a herd of pets.

Some of my favorite authors are Charlotte Featherstone, Robin Schone, Marie Treanor, and Gena Showalter.

Look for all my books on Amazon:

Vampire Dreams Revamped (A Sons of Navarus Prequel Novella)ebook
Blood Avenged (Sons of Navarus #1) ebook and paperback
Blood Betrayed (Sons of Navarus #2) ebook and paperback
Blood Spirit (Sons of Navarus #3) ebook and paperback
Stolen Destiny ebook and paperback
Destiny Redeemed ebook and paperback
Love's Master (2nd in the Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy)ebook
Masquerade (3rd in the Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy)ebook
Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy One Volume ebook and paperback (the only place you can find the original novella Vampire Dreams, 1st in the Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy)

You can find out more about me, including finding free reads related to the Sons of Navarus series, at my blog at http://gbisset.blogspot.com/ or at my website at http://www.gabriellebisset.com/

I love to hear from readers. Please contact me at gabriellebisset@gmail.com

Devil's Mountain (Book One of the Devlin Legacy) by Bernadette Walsh - Review/Giveaway

2012-09-17T02:00:00.000-05:00

Title: Devil's Mountain (Devlin Legacy #1)

Author: Bernadette Walsh

Publisher: Lyrical Press

Length: 122 pages

Genres: Paranormal/Fantasy Romance (Horror)

Heat Level: Steamy

BLURB

You will hate Him for all that he's taken, but you will love Him. God help you, you will love Him.

Mary Devlin accepted her fate years ago, to serve Slanaitheoir, the mountain spirit who saved her ancestors from the Irish Famine. The hauntingly beautiful woman submitted to His every caress, His every humiliation, but He’s gone too far by threatening her family.

Mary’s daughter-in-law is now an unwitting pawn in the fickle spirit’s game. Mary must challenge her fate and that of all future Devlin women, but Slanaitheoir is the most powerful being in the land. And when part of her still yearns for His touch and love, how can she fight him and win?

R-RATED EXTENDED EXCERPT:

Marcie, one of the Wanna-Be Manhattan Moms who had also experienced success, lived a few blocks away on East 85th Street. A group of successful Wanna-Be Manhattan Moms had formed a little Upper East Side sorority. We would go to Mommy-and-Me classes, play dates and at times babysat for each other. I’m not sure exactly what happened to the not-so-successful Wanna-Be Manhattan Moms. None of us mentioned them.

Marcie agreed to babysit Aidan while I went to my acupuncture appointment at the Yorktown Natural Fertility Clinic. Bobby refused to go back to the New York Infertility Institute. In fact, it was all I could do to convince him not to use condoms. “I’ve got my beautiful wife and my beautiful son,” he said in a sing-song voice whenever I raised the topic of another child. “That’s all I want. That’s all I need.”

Why wasn’t that all I needed?

The first few months of Aidan’s life, I was completely satisfied. I’d never been so happy or imagined I could be so happy.

But then, the old familiar niggling started. I’d take Aidan in his stroller through Central Park and see a woman pushing twins in a stroller. Or a mother holding the hands of a small boy and a girl. And I would get that sour taste in my mouth, the same one I had tasted for years whenever I saw a pregnant woman.

And so it began.

I couldn’t very well steal a vial of Bobby’s sperm and take it with me back to Dr. Feinberg’s office. But we had, somehow, managed to conceive Aidan on our own. Perhaps with some Chinese herbs and acupuncture we could conceive again. Marcie swore by acupuncture, and after she had been thrown out of two Manhattan IVF clinics she tried traditional Chinese medicine and conceived her own miracle baby. Why couldn’t I too, conceive a little miracle baby with the help of magic teas and shiny needles?

Just one more, I thought to myself as I opened the heavy glass doors of the Yorktown Natural Fertility Clinic. “Just one more miracle. And then. Then I’ll be happy and content.”

I promise, I silently swore to God, the universe or whoever else might be listening to my thoughts.

***

A row of needles lined my bare stomach. They were in my ears, on my wrists and even between my toes. The acupuncturist, a hippy-looking woman in her mid-fifties with frizzy red hair, twisted the needles between my toes once more before she lowered the lights and left the room.

The first five minutes were always the hardest. Inevitably at least one of the needles would burn. Dr. Hippy-Dippy said that meant it was working. It was all I could do not to rip the offending thing out.

I breathed in and out slowly, and tried to focus on my breathing, on anything rather than the needles. As I lay in the darkened room, with only the sound of a small fan to block out the traffic from Second Avenue, my shoulders, which had felt like they were jacked up below my ears, relaxed. I continued my purposeful breathing and closed my eyes.

Someone took my hand. I opened my eyes and was no longer on the table, but clothed in a long red robe and standing in a forest. And the most beautiful man held my hand.

“My love,” He said, His voice harsh and guttural. And somehow familiar.

A lone ray of sunlight made its way through the heavy woods and shone on His black hair. His pale skin glowed and His jade eyes glittered in the low light. They drew me in.

Without another word He led me to a roaring fire outside of a cave. The fire was hot, and a small bead of sweat formed on my upper lip. The man unbuttoned the red robe and took it from my shoulders. Underneath I wore only a thin sheath of white silk that hid nothing from His probing gaze.

I should have been embarrassed, but the hungry look in His hypnotic eyes stirred a fire within me. With a finger, he gently followed the lines of my plump, full breast.

“So ripe,” He whispered in a harsh rasp. “So fertile.”

That word hit me like a hard slap. I turned away. “No,” I choked out, “I’m not.”

He pulled me to Him, His lips mere inches from my own. His musky breath filled my

nose. “You could be.” His lips covered mine. At first soft, like the finest silk, but then more forceful, moreurgent. My passion soon met His and I couldn’t help but run my fingers through His magical hair as he devoured my lips.

He tore the sheath in two and it fell away from me, leaving me naked. His green gaze bore through me, and it was almost as if I could feel the very cells of my body change. My breasts felt heavier and skin softer, my lips fuller. It was as if He transferred His own beauty to me. I ran my hands across my face first, and then my breasts, my nipples, taut and tender. Instead of being embarrassed, I reveled in my newfound beauty.

My skin was hot but His hands were hotter and they almost burned my flesh as they explored every inch of me. Every touch brought both pleasure and pain.

I pulled at His golden shirt, eager to see all of Him and He seemed surprised by my daring, my need for Him. He smiled, like a wolf about to catch His prey, and ripped the silk from His body as well.

This nameless man pushed me onto the soft grass beside the fire. Starting at my toes, His scalding tongue sucked and bit me. As He traveled up my calf and along my thighs, I trembled, not with fear, but with a hunger I’d never felt before. A ravenous, ancient hunger.

He spread my legs and His rough, scalding tongue explored me, possessed me. Before I could climax, He stopped.

“Don’t,” I begged. “Don’t stop.” His animal gaze bored into me. “Are you mine?” I threw my head back and arched my back, inviting Him to enter me. “Yes, yes. Go on!”

“Are you mine? Will you give me what I want?”

My skin was on fire, dying for His touch. “Anything,” I moaned.

A terrible smile contorted His beautiful face. “Don’t you want to know what I want?”

I couldn’t take it anymore. I rubbed myself against Him. “Anything. You can have

anything.”

“I want you to have my child. I want to share the blood with you.”

I don’t know where I got the strength, but I pushed Him off me. He lay on his back, more surprised than hurt. His eyes darkened, but before He could get up I pounced on him, lowering my swollen sex onto Him, allowing Him to fill me. I ground into Him and felt Him grow even larger within me. I rocked back and forth, overcome with ripples of orgasms as I fucked Him, as hard as I could. Like a woman possessed.

Like an animal.

Review:

Okay, can I admit that I'm not one for horror/paranormal? For some reason, paranormal to me is horror. So the chance to read book one in a new series completely intrigued me and I'm so glad that I picked it up to read.

Devil's Mountain had themes and places that I really like. Ireland (on the bucket list, plus I'm Irish), mythology, folklore, witches, devils and yes, the baby troupe. Ms. Walsh handled the baby troupe brilliantly. Instead of it being the usually, had sex, got pregnant and hid it. She put a completely different twist on it that had ramifications through out the book. Great job for this tried and trued Harlequin reader.

Having the book told in different POV's was also great. I've read a couple of books like this and for me, it made the book richer and I understood what each of the characters was thinking, doing and feeling. I never felt lost in the process of reading either.

Caroline was a hoot to read and get to know. She angered me at times but I got her and what motivated her. Mary was a completely different story. There was a time or two that I really wished I could have reached in the book and slapped her. In the end, she made sense. Getting into Mary's backstory and motivation was interesting and of course, set up Caroline's destiny.

I laughed, cried, felt complete sadness and utter shivers while I read this book. I can't wait to read about the other Devlin women.

4 1/2 Harlie's and can't wait to read the others...

AUTHOR BIO

Bernadette Walsh has been writing contemporary and paranormal romance for four years. She has published three novels to date (The House on Prospect (Echelon Press) and Gold Coast Wives (Lyrical Press)) and the first book of her paranormal trilogy, Devil’s Mountain -- Book One of the Devlin Legacy. While Bernadette has hopped around genres, all of her books to date have a common theme: strong women handling what life throws at them the best way they can.

Website: http://bernadettewalsh.com

Twitter: @BWalshWriter

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bernadette-Walsh-Author/196567653686807

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5321197.Bernadette_Walsh

AVAILABLE AT

Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Devils-Mountain-Devlin-Legacy-ebook/dp/B008BGICYG

B&N

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/devils-mountain-bernadette-walsh/1109558411

iTunes

http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/devils-mountain/id535770891?mt=11

All Romance eBooks

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-devil039smountain-832980-140.html

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Link to Schedule: http://cblspromotions.blogspot.com/2012/09/scheduled-vbt-devils-mountain-devlin.html

Test

2012-09-15T18:41:00.001-05:00

This is only a test. Gotta a smartphone and trying out mobile blogging.

My Sister's Boyfriend by Sylvia McDaniel Blog Barrage/Giveaway

2012-09-13T01:30:00.000-05:00

Title: My Sister’s Boyfriend

Series: The Trouble with Twins

Author: Sylvia McDaniel

Publisher: Virtual Bookseller

Length: 167 pages/70,000 words

Genres: Contemporary Romance (Comedy)

Heat Level: Sensual

BLURB

The trouble with identical twins…

He's back. The one guy she never wanted to see again. Her high school indiscretion, Brent Moulton, has returned to Tyler, Texas. Only Jennifer Riley knows the truth about that night so long ago when she switched places with her twin sister, Julie, and gave her virginity along with her heart, to her sister's boyfriend in the backseat of his father's Mustang.

…they look alike.

Fifteen years later, life has thrown them back together. Will Brent realize he slept with the wrong twin? Will he overcome his commitment issues and realize that Jennifer just might be the right twin for him.

EXCERPT

"Never again," Jennifer Riley vowed as she stepped into the black-paneled wooden coffin outside the entrance to the Hilton Hotel in downtown Tyler, Texas. Traffic whizzed by on Main Street, some cars slowing at the sight of a woman climbing into a coffin.

Jennifer tugged at her filmy black chiffon dress, trying to cover as much of her exposed cleavage as possible. "No matter how busy Julia gets or how much she pleads, I refuse to do this again. I didn't come back to Tyler to dress up as an over-the-hill sex queen."

Paul, her sister's employee, stood quietly by, holding the lid open. "Ready?"

Jennifer took a deep breath, dreading the darkness that would engulf her. "Yes, make it quick. I hate lying inside this creepy box."

Jennifer watched the coffin lid come down, shutting out the noise and headlights from the traffic.

"You all right?" Paul asked.

"Hurry!” Her breath sounded harsh in the darkness. She felt the pallbearers lift the coffin onto the cart and roll it along the sidewalk into the hotel.

After tonight, Julia, her twin sister, would have to find someone else to jump out of coffins and sing seductively when she needed help with her business. No ifs, ands, or buts!

As the new Development Director at County General Hospital, Jennifer would be way too busy to fill in at her sister's fledgling singing telegram company. Not to mention that popping out of coffins could be damaging to her career.

The cart jostled along the hallway of the hotel until she heard wolf whistles and loud, boisterous, voices cheering, and she knew they'd arrived at the party.

Paul rapped on the coffin lid. "Are you ready?"

Jennifer cleared her throat and searched for the button that would pop open the door. Whatever happened to women jumping out of cakes? What nut case thought coffins were funny?

The coffin lifted. She gripped the sides, trying to find her balance as the pallbearers slid the casket off the cart until the box stood upright. She landed with a jarring thunk on the floor. Why couldn't you get good pallbearers these days?

Paul tapped on the side of the coffin to let her know it was show time.

"In honor of your birthday, your friends and family have given you a gift from the other side. The other side of the hill, that is," Paul announced as the noise from the crowd swelled.

Music started to play, and Jennifer hit the button on the inside of the wooden box. The lid sprang open and she slinked out, her chiffon dress clinging like a second skin that left little to the imagination.

"Happy Birthday," she sang in her alto voice, her eyes blinded by the lights. She blinked rapidly, hoping her eyesight would adjust to the brightness of the room. When her vision finally cleared, she found herself staring into the face of the one man she'd hoped never to see again.

There before her, wearing a stunned expression on his face and a Marvin the Martian child's birthday hat on his head, sat Brent Moulton.

"Well, I'll be damned," said the captain of her old high school football team, the person voted most handsome and most likely to succeed.

Jennifer's voice cracked as she gazed into the emerald eyes of the boy who'd once been the object of her teenage dreams. A lock of dark hair lay across his high forehead. His full lips smiled as she stumbled over the words to the song she'd sung countless times.

I should never have agreed to do this tonight!

Dancing for a man who, almost fifteen years ago, hadn't known the difference between her and Julia was anything but special, but the show had to go on.

She slinked around him, her heart beating in her throat as she ran her hands along the hard, contoured muscles of his shoulders. Brent must have existed on nothing but Wheaties, because his physique resembled a professional football player's rather than that of a high school kid.

Of course, he would never remember her. She had portrayed Julia that night so long ago when they'd pulled a switch on him. Nevertheless, deep down inside, the foolish young girl Jennifer had been back then had convinced herself that he’d known which twin he was with. Yes, they looked alike, but when someone really knew the two of them, their differences were obvious.

With a coo that she hoped resembled Christina Aguilera’s crooning, she ran her fingers down his cheek as she began the last chorus of the song, the place in the act where she was supposed to lean forward and placed a chaste kiss on his cheek. She gazed at his lips, full and inviting, and remembered the feel of them against her own that moonlit night when he believed he was kissing Julia's lips.

She chickened out.

As the song ended, Brent reached up and unexpectedly pulled her onto his lap, wrapping her in his muscular arms. A full-blown explosion of magnetism rushed at Jennifer like a Eurail locomotive as she gazed into his laughing emerald eyes, catching her completely off guard.

Fifteen years had passed since that night, and still he'd tag teamed her libido and brought back all those annoying yearnings she thought she’d buried long ago.

Sprawled across Brent's lap, her bottom rested against his legs, and her head lay against his muscular arm. The memory of his kiss had her heart beating a sharp rhythm against her chest. Hopefully he'd forgotten his date with Julia the night before they left for college.

He ran his hand down her arm, leaving a trail of goose bumps beneath the black chiffon sleeve of her dress. "Hi," he said as his gaze swept down the length of her, his voice deeper, sexier than she remembered.

"Hi," she managed as a shiver ran down her spine and her lungs tightened beneath the unyielding black dress.

“It’s been a long time.” The corner of his lips turned up in a cocky grin. "Shouldn't I get some kind of official birthday kiss?"

Determined to control the situation, she placed her hands on his jaw and brought his face close to her lips. She placed a quick, chaste kiss on his cheek. "Happy birthday!"

AUTHOR BIO

Sylvia McDaniel and her very supportive husband Don, the love of her life, live in Texas with son Shane, Putz the klutzy dachshund and Ashley our shy dachshund. During the day, she works for a small insurance agency from home, helping clients with their commercial insurance coverage.

The weekends are spent working out in the garden until the temperature climbs above ninety degrees. Recently, with the help of her husband, she learned to make homemade blueberry and blackberry jam. Cooking is not her favorite past-time and she prefers Don’s cooking any day of the week.

Currently, she’s written fourteen novels. In the last year, she’s been a finalist in six writing contests and was a 1996 Romance Writers of America Golden Heart finalist. Sylvia is very involved with the Dallas Area Romance Authors.

She can be reached by email at Sylvia.McDaniel@verizon.net.

Buy Link:

http://www.amazon.com/Sisters-Boyfriend-Trouble-Series-ebook/dp/B008ZU0HFU

Link to blog schedule:

http://cblspromotions.blogspot.com/2012/09/scheduled-barrage-my-sisters-boyfriend.html

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Empty Net by Toni Aleo/Giveaway/Guest Post/Review

2012-09-12T01:00:00.000-05:00

A Day In My Writing Life

Toni Aleo

My day starts early; midnight to be exact. I go to my job as an at home nurse and work for 8 hours. Once I am , my day really begins.

8:00am.

I come home and see the mess my family has made while I was gone or in my writing cave. Disgusted, I proceed to get my little people ready for school. Mikey is seven, hates getting ready for school, and would much rather watch Ben 10. Alyssa is four and would rather sleep than do anything Mommy wants.

8:45am

The kids are dropped off and I head back home.

9:00am

I am face down, in my bed, passed out.

12:00pm

I…am….hungry…rawr.

12:45pm.

Finally having had a chance to eat and ready to start my author work. I get online; check my Facebook, Twitter, blog, sales, and my reviews on Amazon, B&N, and GoodReads. After all that, I do any work that I need to do; posting or answering emails, just normal stuff.

1:25pm

Now, the fun stuff starts. My characters have been going nuts in my head for the past 24 hours and are ready to be written. I sit down; have my phone beside me and a tall glass of water. I look at the screen and off I go.

3:25pm

“I can’t stop now!”

This is what I usually scream when this time rolls around. Gotta go get the kids.

3:50pm

My house is nut case. Everyone is looking for dance shoes, soccer cleats, ice skates, or something else that is needed for that afternoon’s activity.

4:15pm

We leave for the activity. If it’s Mikey’s day, then Alyssa plays on his DS while I try to finish the chapter I started earlier. If it’s Alyssa’s, then Mike does homework while I am writing.

6:00pm

While dinner is being made, I am reading my last chapter, yelling at the kids to clean their rooms, do their homework, and stop fighting. Yes, in that order.

6:30pm

My husband comes home and everything gets louder.

7:00pm

We sit down for dinner.

8:00pm

Baths and kids go to bed. Husband and I snuggle while watching hockey or our shows.

9:00pm

Husband goes to bed and I continue to write.

10:01pm

I’ve usually fallen asleep on my keyboard.

11:45pm

My alarm goes off telling me to go to work and I haven’t even finished what I was doing.

Then it all starts over again!

My question to Toni is...do you ever sleep? :)

Blurb:

Definition of an Empty Net: When a team pulls the goalie for an extra attacker, desperately seeking a goal.

Audrey Parker was in a horrible place.

She hated her job, her sister was getting married and moving out, but worst of all, she was in love with a total jerk. No matter what she did, every guy she met hurt her. All she wanted was her happily ever after. Her Prince Charming. Her Lucas Brooks! She didn’t know how to change her life but she knew she needed too.
Feeling like she was about to hit rock bottom, Audrey wakes up next to Tate Odder.

Tate Odder had lost everything.

After being brought up from the Assassins’ farm team, the Florida Rays to the Nashville Assassins, Tate hopes he’ll forget everything he has lost. He doesn’t. Each day gets harder to live in a place he doesn’t know. Even being the first rookie goalie to shut out an opposing team three times during the Lord Stanly Cup Finals, he still felt empty. With the loss of his parents and sister still heavy on his heart, Tate isn’t sure how to live like everything is okay.

But when he wakes up beside Audrey Parker, things start to change. She turns his life upside down with her kooky sense of humor and her bright clothing. She is intelligent and beautiful, and for once, he doesn’t feel empty.

Will Audrey be the person to fill the holes in Tate’s heart, making him whole again?

Or will another player ruin everything, leaving him feeling forever like an empty net?

Review:

I will start my review with a confession...I love hockey. Yes, I live in Texas so you would think I'd be all about football. I do love my football but its not the same as hockey. My first love is Baseball, hands down my first love. Hockey is my paramour. I used to sneak my love for hockey from my friends. My dad took me to my first hockey game back with the Dallas North Stars first came to Dallas. It was different than watching it on television and so much better. When I had the opportunity to work for the Dallas Stars, I took it. I worked all the home games and I watch them win the Stanley Cup (in Buffalo at 3 am in the morning). Then the next year, I had to watch Scott Stevens skate the Cup in our house. I cried my eyes out when I got home. Couldn't cry while I was working. It would have been unprofessional. Many playoff games later, I still love my hockey and the players that play. Heck, our son is named for Brian Leetch, defensive and Team Captain for the New York Rangers back in the day. So forgive me or just bear with me on my review. I will be using some hockey slang...

Tate Odder reminded me of some of the hockey players that I got to know over the years. Young, innocent and sure of themselves on the ice but not so much off the ice. His backstory was emotional and heartbreaking but it made him who he is as a person and a player. Besides being sexy, generous and perfect for Audrey, he had his emotions and feelings to go through. He was a multi layered character that I sometimes don't find in sports themed romance stories. Great job Toni. You made me root for him through it all. *sigh*

Audrey is me. No seriously, she is. It was like I was reading about me. My thoughts, my self doubts, my image issues. She had real issues that she had to get through. I mean, really a hot hockey guy liking her? In her wildest dreams, she thinks. After the crap she had to deal with her last relationship, I understand where Audrey was coming from. I've been there, bought the t-shirt and now its a rag.

While I enjoyed both Audrey and Tate, sometimes I did want to shake Audrey. Sometimes the self doubt wore thin but knowing that Tate was there to help her see that she was beautiful, smart and successfull.

I completely fell in love with Audrey and Tate. I really need to go back and read the first two books in this series. Piper's book should be a hoot and I can't wait.

If you are looking for a feel good, emotional driven story with great characters, even better dialogue and a multilayered story, Empty Net is for you.

5 Harlie's and a recommended read

Entangled Launches a New Line---Bliss! Contest

2012-09-06T11:46:00.001-05:00

Entangled Publishing has a launched a sweet & sassy short romance line called Bliss. They are giving away a Nook eReader. All you have to do is fill out the Rafflecopter form below. Easy peasy, lemon squeezey!

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Harlie's back....sorta

2012-09-04T02:30:00.000-05:00

I'm sure most of yall thought I had died, forgot about you or just didn't care. Well, I've been busy. We moved to another town last month, kid started school and my 8th wedding anniversary is today.

Harlie's been doing the blog tour thing lately...grateful for scheduling stuff way out in advance...but now I will be posting more often. If you have won something from Harlie, please email her at maw1725@gmail.com so she can get your prize to you this week. Speaking of prizes, I will be using random.org to pick my print book winners from my moving giveaways, too.

I have sent my winners from Biting Oz, Re/Bound and Seven Sexy Sins to the coordinator. I will announce those tomorrow. Plus, I haven't forgotten the BDSM Blog Hop winner either. :) Announcing that winner tomorrow, also.

Yes, have I been lax? Yes and I'm sorry. There is no excuse for that. Please remember that the Labor Day Hop is through September 15th. Plenty of time to go to all the other blogs to increase your chance to win.

Harlie

Claiming Magique Blog Tour Day 8 - Contest

2012-09-02T01:00:00.000-05:00

DAY EIGHT - ‘CLAIMING MAGIQUE’ BLOG TOUR

Hanging in there? Enjoying the excerpts? Leaving comments for your chance to win?

Hope so! Claiming Magique , Book One in my Appointment with Pleasure series at Ellora’s Cave, is one steamy romance with an Alpha hero and a woman who puts him through his paces. J

Here’s the cover, blurb and a brief excerpt to give you an idea of the plot.

I’m also offering a contest – the tour winner will have her choice of THREE of my backlist ebooks. So, read on!! And leave comments at each of my stops (check my blog daily for details: http://www.tinadonahue.com/blog/ ) for your chance to win! The more comments, the better your chances.

Blurb:

Claiming Magique

Book One – Appointment with Pleasure series

Tina Donahue

A man at the center of power…a woman who won’t be ruled…

They call her Magique.

Sought out by the District’s elite, she’s no ordinary call girl, deciding who will pleasure her for the evening. Her preference is for several men at once. Games of bondage and submission heighten her arousal and desire to have a strong male take her…to be adored.

Lobbyist Hunter Prescott was only looking for a good time, not a woman who unleashes a hunger so deep it changes his world. He won’t stop until Magique is his alone, a prisoner of his lust, powerless against his growing need for her body and heart.

With this man, resistance isn’t allowed. For this woman, he’ll create a world of sensual delight and yearning like none she’s known. Proving that only with trust and true surrender will she find unparalleled rapture.

Excerpt:

The name she uses is Magique.

French for magic. According to Hunt’s client, who’d paid close to twenty grand for tonight’s “date”, Magique was available only when the mood hit her.

Hunt had laughed at the notion, asking, “Seriously?”

“You won’t be grinning if she doesn’t choose you,” Jack Kilhan had said.

Nearly as rich as Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg, Jack was a VIP client at Givens and Strobe, the firm where Hunt, David and Tim worked. Hunt had helped get legislation passed that saved Jack’s companies a lot of bucks and regulatory headaches. As a reward, Jack was providing the coming hours with Magique.

That is, if she chose Hunt.

“Seriously?” he’d asked the man again, dutifully sobered this time.

Jack pursed his lips and drew hard on his illegal Cuban cigar, releasing aromatic smoke with his words. “She doesn’t do this for the money, Hunt.” He offered a knowing smile. “She doesn’t need to.”

Really. “She has a day job? She’s a lobbyist too? Someone’s aide? Part of the POTUS’s inner circle? His mistress?”

Jack smoked his cigar.

Hunt pressed on. “If she doesn’t need the money for living expenses, then why does she do it?”

“Why do you or any man?”

Dumb question. They craved sex, the high of an orgasm, the warmth of a body and close comfort without any of the nasty complications.

“Hey,” David said, real quiet as though he feared being overheard. His Asian features were tight with concern as he studied Hunt. “You all right?”

He was horny as hell and hadn’t even seen her. What the fuck was the matter with him? He enjoyed women, always had—for sex and an occasional friendship, not anything soul shattering, knowing how easily love could become a weapon. He’d seen enough of that shit as a child.

Had Jack been putting him on with that she-might-be-inaccessible crap? There was only one purpose for tonight…unrestrained indulgence. For her, him and his buddies.

“She prefers three guys at once,” Jack had informed. “Rather than one on one.”

Hunt wasn’t about to question why.

“I’m fine,” he said in answer to David, then cleared the tightness in his throat as he headed for the front door.

Tim followed, his strides decisive, his blond good looks downright preppy and at home in this well-to-do neighborhood.

The cab hummed down the street, leaving a whiff of diesel the breeze washed away. Branches tapped the home’s windows. The glass glowed with amber-colored lights, the gentle illumination spilling onto the darkened walk. Hunt thumbed the doorbell. Its chime was feminine and soft, tempering his impatience, though it didn’t keep him from jabbing it again.

A woman answered.

Buy link: http://www.jasminejade.com/p-10319-claiming-magique.aspx

Tina

Tina Donahue

“Heat with Heart”

CLAIMING MAGIQUE (AVAILABLE NOW)

THE YEARNING (HOLT MEDALLION AWARD OF MERIT)

UNENDING DESIRE (BEST BOOK Rating - LASR Erotic)

SENSUAL STRANGER (BOOK OF THE YEAR 2010)

DEEP, DARK, DELICIOUS (HOLT MEDALLION AWARD OF MERIT)

Website: http://www.tinadonahue.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/tinadonahue

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/authortina/my-books/

*** CONTEST ***

To celebrate the release of Claiming Magique , I’m offering a contest. One lucky commenter during this blog tour will have her choice of THREE of my following ebooks**:

1. Adored – RWA award-winning; EPIC 2011 Finalist; 4 Stars RT

2. Deep, Dark, Delicious – EPIC 2011 Finalist; Holt Medallion Award of Merit

3. Lush Velvet Nights – EPIC 2011 Finalist; Golden Nib Award

4. In His Arms – SIX 5 Star Reviews; 4 Stars RT

5. Sensual Stranger – 2010 Book of the Year (erotic); 4 Stars RT

6. The Yearning – Top Ten Bestseller

7. Take Me Away - #1 Pick, Miz Love Loves Books

8. Unending Desire – Best Book Rating LASR

9. SiNN – Nominated for Book of the Week LASR

** Winner chosen at random. Winner chosen September 13

Banan Banan has never had a problem using humans to help further hide the Dragon Kings. Not once has he ever thought twice about lying regarding who he was to get what he wants. After all, he'd been one of the Kings who had fought to save mankind. But all that changes the moment he sees Jane Holden. It's his duty to get close to her and discover any secrets she might have regarding the Kings, but when her life is threatened, Banan doesn't hesitate to save her. Or show her who he really is.