Today’s First Kiss Friday featured guest is Cynthia Owens, author of historical romance Yesterday’s Promise.  Welcome Cynthia!

A bit about Yesterday’s Promise –

…Like the Wild Geese of Old Ireland, five boys grew to manhood despite hunger, war, and the mean streets of New York…

An army doctor, Declan Morrissey fought for the survival of every wounded soldier, rejoicing when they recovered, mourning bitterly when they died.

Valerie Stanton was his beautiful battlefield nurse, strong, courageous, and dedicated.

He never dreamed she was an heiress, or that she’d break his heart in a desperate gamble to save the life of another man.

Now that they’ve found each other again, can they overcome past deception and claim the happily ever after they dreamed of?

Yesterday’s Promise, Book 4 of The Wild Geese Series.

First Kiss from Yesterday’s Promise –

“What does he do to you?”

“Don’t!” Valerie shook her head wildly and pushed back her chair. Her entire body began to tremble, her heart raced, and she glanced frantically about the room, desperate to escape. Her throat dried, tears burned behind her eyes. “Please, Declan.”

The next thing she knew he was beside her, pulling her to her feet, and a moment later his arms closed around her, her head resting against his shoulder, his hands making soothing circles on her back. “Ah, whisht, now, love. Whisht, now. Sure, I never should have asked, never should have pushed you. ‘Tis sorry I am, my darlin’ girl.” His voice dissolved into roughness, and she cuddled close against his warmth. Oh, how she wished she could absorb some of that warmth, absorb some of Declan.

They stood there for a long moment. Declan murmured soft, soothing endearments in English and what she supposed must be Irish. Oh, his hands felt so wonderful on her back, even through the layers of clothing she wore. His breath stirred the hair at her temple, warmed her, eased her torment as nothing and no one else could.

“Forgive me, darlin’. I never want to hurt you. God help me, all I want to do is see you safe.” She pressed closer, feeling the sudden tension in him. “Safe from the world. Safe from your father.” His voice roughened. He pulled back just a fraction, framed her face in his hands, and pressed a feather-light kiss to her lips. “I want to be the one to protect you, Valerie.” His lips roved over the curve of her cheek. “I’ve wanted that…wanted you…since that first day at Bull Run.” He pulled her closer, closer still, molded her body against his. “Ah, sweet merciful Heaven…Valerie…”

“Declan.” She should resist him, but her arms crept up and around his neck, pulling his head down to hers. She shivered as his hands wandered over her heated flesh, bringing her alive as she hadn’t been since she’d last been in his arms, kissed him. “Declan, please…”

We can’t do this. Not here. Not now. Once, yes, oh, yes. Once we might have loved each other, become one, lived happily ever after. But no more. We mustn’t. I’m tied here. I can’t leave. Oh, Declan, I love you, but I can never have you.

Even as the words formed themselves in her mind, she stubbornly ignored them. Just a few moments, a few moments in his arms, in his heart. That’s all she’d ever ask, and more than she could ever hope for.

Declan heeded her breathless plea. He was helpless to do anything else as she pressed against him, her lithe body warm and alive under his hands. She was so soft, so yielding, her arms clinging tenaciously, holding him to her.

‘Twas almost like the time, so long ago, when he’d believed she could be his.

He crushed his mouth to hers. Her soft, moist lips blossomed sweetly under his as she stroked his nape with fingers of fire. He groaned, a shudder of longing racking him, and molded her body to his. “Valerie…ah, blessed St. Patrick, ‘tis you’re the beautiful woman.” He murmured the words against her mouth, teasing her, tasting her with hands and lips and tongue. He heard her soft moan as she shivered against him, her fingers burying themselves in his hair, pulling his mouth back down to hers for another deep, drugging kiss, another and yet another. He couldn’t get enough of her. “Sure, a man could drown in you, love, and be happy for it.”

Dimly, he heard the sound of a distant clock as it chimed the hour. She stiffened against him. Ah, no! Not yet! Just let me hold her a while longer. Don’t let her leave me now.

But before he could catch her, she’d jerked away, her cheeks flushed, her lips red and damp and swollen from his kisses. She stepped away from him. To put distance between them? Or to regain what was left of her usual cool composure?

She faced him squarely, her eyes shuttered, her shoulders rigid. “Declan. We can’t. We can’t do this. It’s over. It’s been over for a long time. You must accept it.”

Yesterday’s Promise will be releasing over the next few weeks. Until then, here’s how to contact Cynthia:

Website: http://www.cynthiaowensromancewriter.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCynthiaOwens

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Cynwrites1

Google +: https://plus.google.com/u/0/+CynthiaOwens/posts

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Cynthia-Owens/e/B003DQ1V2E

Laurel O'Donnell - Medieval Romance Novels, Paranormal Romance Novels and Urban Fantasy

Here’s the first kiss from my bestselling medieval romance novel, Midnight Shadow!  Midnight Shadow is one of the novels featured in the new boxed set Tall Dark and Medieval!

Terran seized her shoulders and slammed her up against the blacksmith’s shop.  “Enough!” he roared.  “Enough of your insults.  I have endured them from your father and grandfather, even from Dysen.  But I will not tolerate them from you.”

Bria’s mouth dropped open for only a moment before her shock vanished, replaced by fury.  She opened her mouth to reply, but Terran slammed his open palms on the wall on either side of her.

“I said enough!”

For a long moment, Bria could do nothing but stare at him.  And slowly, a realization came to her.  She was alone with him.  And he was close — very close.  His hands were on either side of her, effectively trapping her.  His lips were but inches from hers.  Her eyes scanned his face, his rugged square jaw, his sensual lips, his dark eyes.  Lightning lit the sky above, but Bria barely noticed except for the reflection in his eyes.  Was that remorse in them?  Or was she imagining it?

He leaned closer to her until his face was beside hers, almost cheek to cheek.  Bria stiffened.  What was he doing?  But she didn’t protest.  His hair brushed and mingled with hers.  “I didn’t mean to kill him, Bria.”

She felt a soft wave of hot breath on her neck, but his words were so soft Bria wasn’t sure he’d spoken them at all.  She turned her head to try to see him, and he shifted his gaze to look into hers with eyes that seemed a little lost.

In the next moment, he was brushing his lips against hers, seeking, exploring.  She was unsure of what to do and found herself frozen, half wanting him to kiss her, half wanting to flee.  His touch was gentle, almost soothing.  Not at all what she had expected.

He pulled slightly back to look into her eyes, studying them as if waiting for her to deny him.

But she couldn’t.  She didn’t want to.

He cupped her neck and pulled her to him, claiming her lips with a more urgent need.  A fierce, reckless desire seared through her.  His arms pulled her tight against the length of his body.

Her world spun out of control.  He coaxed her lips open to his exploration and when his tongue entered her mouth, warring with her own, Bria felt the ground rumble beneath her feet.

He kissed her fully, expertly exploring every part of her mouth.  Then he pulled slowly away, ending the kiss, leaving her weak and confused.

He stepped back, taking his strength and support with him.

Bria’s knees buckled and she almost fell, but he reached out to steady her.  Humiliated and awed by her reaction to his kiss, she expected to look up and see him laughing at her.  But when she gazed into his eyes, she found no laughter there.  He appeared just as baffled as she.

Laurel O'Donnell - Medieval Romance Novels, Paranormal Romance Novels and Urban Fantasy

Today’s First Kiss Friday featured guest is Elizabeth Rose, author of paranormal romance The Dragon and The DreamWalker.  Welcome Elizabeth!  The Dragon and The DreamWalker is one of the novels featured in the new boxed set Tall Dark and Medieval!

A bit about The Dragon and The DreamWalker –

Drake of Dunsbard saves Brynn from being sacrificed to Dracus, the dragon of Lornoon. He is shocked to see the dragon’s fire has not harmed her, and realizes she must be the Lady of Fire that the villagers fear and call a witch.

Brynn has faerie blood running through her veins, and while fire cannot harm her and gives her power, water weakens her and can destroy her. She is thrilled to have been saved by a heroic knight, until she awakes and realizes he has brought her to her late father’s castle. She knows at once her savior is none other than the infamous Dragon’s Son. The feared man of all, and also the man who stormed her father’s castle and claimed it as his own. And while their relationship on the physical plane is rocky, Brynn has the ability to dreamwalk, leave her body in her sleep, and their relationship on the etheric plane is much different indeed.

Can two feared people work together to destroy the dragon, or will they be stopped by their haunting pasts as they realize they really fear themselves?

First Kiss in The Dragon and the DreamWalker –

Drake turned slowly back toward her, and by the look on his face, she knew every ounce of his energy had been spent.

Her own realization of just how much he needed her had her backing closer to the fire for strength. She could see it in his eyes. Like a lost soul crying out for help before giving up to defeat, he silently cried out to her, and a part of her wanted nothing more than to take his hand and tell him everything would be all right. Oddly enough, she felt as if she cared for him. She could no longer deny it. She’d looked inside her heart just like Juturna had told her, and saw that what the old woman said was true. Somehow, some way, she felt their meeting was planned from the start.

They stood silently, looking at each other for what seemed like eternity, the fire behind her giving her the strength she needed to face her unspoken confession of attraction. His eyes drank her in, and she felt his gaze heating her body, hotter and hotter.

Then he opened his mouth as if to say something, but his eyes opened wide instead. He ran to her and her heart leapt. He picked up the coverlet on the way, and throwing it around her, knocked her down and rolled atop her upon the floor.

“Get off of me,” she commanded, hitting him with her fists, wondering why he’d done this. Mayhap he was no better than Calais, being vulgar and wanting to mate right on the floor.

“You’re on fire!” he told her, holding her tightly, rolling around the floor with her to put out the flames that indeed had caught her skirt ablaze when she backed too close to the hearth.

With the flames extinguished, he lay atop her, his arms supporting his weight from crushing her. His face was alarmingly close to hers, his hair hanging down and brushing her cheek. She trembled as her body vibrated from his touch.

He didn’t say anything, but his eyes rested on her lips as he brought his mouth daringly closer. She lifted her chin to meet him, closing her eyes as their lips touched. His kiss warmed her down to her belly. She was in a dangerous position, being kissed by The Dragon, but was unable to stop herself from opening her mouth as his tongue entered. She let him in, welcomed The Dragon into her mouth, reveling in the taste of this warrior man invading her with his strength and claiming her as his own. He reached out to run his finger softly against her cheek and she found herself wanting him to run his fingers over the rest of her body as well.

Website: Http://elizabethrosenovels.com

Laurel O'Donnell - Medieval Romance Novels, Paranormal Romance Novels and Urban Fantasy

Today’s First Kiss Friday featured guest is Barbara Devlin, author of historical romance Arucard.  Welcome Barbara!  Arucard is one of the novels featured in the new boxed set Tall Dark and Medieval!

A bit about Arucard –

WANTED: DEAD OR ALIVE.

It is the year of Our Lord 1307, and by papal decree, Templar Knight Arucard de Villiers is a hunted man. One of a handful of mariners to escape the Inquisition and Philip the Fair’s treachery, Arucard sets sail for England, where good King Edward II has outlawed torture. While the Crown is more than happy to offer exile and create a new Order to accommodate the famed warriors of the Crusades, such assistance comes with a price. But is the cost one Arucard is willing to pay?

The world in which Isolde de Tyreswelle exists defines her as chattel. Nothing more than a means to an end, she is a puppet in her unscrupulous father’s dastardly play and is thrown into the courtly arena. To further her family’s political aspirations, she is betrothed to a man she has never met and, with her husband, must fight to survive the intrigues and betrayals of her new life. With good reason, she fears men. Can Isolde learn to trust Arucard before they are destroyed by their enemies?

First Kiss in Arucard –

As she scanned the witnesses, she wondered when her groom would arrive.  Hoping for an aged, dull, and feeble noble in search of an heir, a chatelaine, and naught more, and possessed of a deep-seated abhorrence for belts, she assessed the spectators, but none met her low but reasonable expectations.  Perchance her intended had no penchant for punctuality.

“Now then, as both parties art present, let us begin the ceremony.”  Archbishop Winchelsea held up a leather bound tome and cleared his throat.  “Prithee, join hands.”

When the tallest, most colossal giant stepped to the fore, a harsh realization dawned, and Isolde emitted a whimper.  Uttering a silent entreaty for mercy, as she would never survive one of his lashings, she retreated in panic, but Father shoved her forward, into the enormous arms of her future husband.

“My lady Isolde, art thou unwell?”  With tenderness of which she had not thought him capable, her soon-to-be-spouse held her upright.  “Dost thou require a moment of rest, as thither is a small bench around the corner, whither thou might take thy ease?”

“What my daughter needs is strict authority to reinforce obedience.”  Sneering, Father adjusted his cloak.  “Heed my advice, Sir Arucard.  Spare not the strap, as she is a willful sort.”

With that she teetered, but the knight extended unshakeable support.

“How very kind of thee to offer sage counsel, Lord Rochester.  But whither I come from, we shield our women.”  So her new master was called Arucard, and she favored his judgment and his name, as well as his rich baritone.  “We do not batter them.”

“That may be, but thou art in England, now.”  A telltale red hue spread across Father’s face, as he stuttered and stammered, and she was grateful she no longer shared his house, but she worried about the servants who often bore the brunt of his ire in Isolde’s stead.  “And thou must honor our traditions.”

“Allow me to assure thee, I am aware of my locale, Lord Rochester.”  Twining his fingers in hers, Sir Arucard peered at her and smiled.  “But I would argue thither is little honor in such barbarity.”

“Thank thee for thy concern, my lord Arucard.”  In that instant, she decided, were she given a choice between the two, she rather preferred her knight, despite his immensity, as his proclamation did much to soothe her frazzled nerves.  And in light of her father’s reliable temper, she opted to hope for a new and better future.  “We may commence the service.”

Without further ado, the archbishop flipped through the parchment, until he found his mark.  “Dearly beloved friends…”

And in the next hour, Isolde became a wife to a creature she knew not.

In true English tradition, the actual nuptials took place outside the Chapter House.  Listening with determination, she made her vows, repeating the archbishop’s pronouncements with care and nary a misstep.  With the King in attendance, her husband lifted her veil.  For a few minutes, he simply scrutinized her.  Then he bent and pressed his lips to hers.

Theirs was not the most romantic kiss, as they were, for all intents and purposes, utter strangers.  But she viewed the simple formality as the beginning, of sorts, to a long journey; the destination of which she pledged would end in friendship.  Again, she kept her presumptions modest, as never would he love her, and she was not so naïve to set such lofty aspirations that would only result in desolation and disappointment.  If they could form an abiding connubial bond based on mutual respect, she would be content.

Laurel O'Donnell - Medieval Romance Novels, Paranormal Romance Novels and Urban Fantasy

Today’s First Kiss Friday featured guest is Lana Williams, author of victorian romance Loving the Hawke.  Welcome Lana!

Thank you for having me on your blog, Laurel! I’m excited to share the First Kiss from my latest release, Loving the Hawke, a Victorian Romance.

A bit about Loving the Hawke –

After five seasons as a wallflower, Lettie Fairchild is resigned to spinsterhood. Mostly. Determined to claim more meaning for her life than seeing her younger sisters married, she seeks a purpose. She finds what she’s looking for when she happens upon a book describing seven curses that plague London.

Nathaniel Hawke is attempting to adjust to civilian life after retiring from the military, but his injured leg and memories of his time in the service prevent an easy transition. On his long walks during London’s darkest hours, Nathaniel is appalled by what he sees taking place on the dirty streets and alleyways. He is determined to take action. Coming upon a proper, if rebellious, lady in the desolate area both intrigues and frustrates him.

Nathaniel’s disregard for his personal safety infuriates Lettie even as her heart is touched by his determination to aid the city’s neglected children.

As the two wounded souls stumble upon each other time and again in slums and ballrooms, they realize they fight a common cause—and share an unbridled passion.

Will the curse they fight be their downfall? Or will love win the day?

First Kiss in Loving the Hawke –

“You have no say over me, Mr. Hawke.”

“What would your father say if he knew where you had spent the luncheon hour?”

She gasped. “Are you threatening me?”

“No. I am trying to keep you safe.”

“You don’t know my name. Besides, I am old enough to see to my own safety.”

“And you obviously are quite good at it, since you are now riding in a carriage with a stranger un-chaperoned. Do you have any idea what happens to nice ladies such as yourself in situations like this?” He leaned closer, hoping his presence was enough to frighten her into avoiding such trips in the future.

Her chin went up a notch as she met his gaze. With his next indrawn breath, her sweet scent that held a hint of orchids filled his senses. He’d grown fond of their heady fragrance during his time in India. Why couldn’t she have smelled of roses or something normal like other English misses?

“Nothing untoward ever happens to me.” She said the words with the utmost confidence. Yet they held an underlying hint of something he couldn’t identify. Was it regret?

His gaze dropped to her lips. He could tell the moment awareness of the danger she was in struck her, for she gave a tiny gasp. The pulse just visible at the base of her throat sped. His gaze caught on the dent in her chin before he stared into her eyes once more, telling himself he needed to back away before doing something he’d regret.

But those hazel-green eyes with specks of gold left him no choice. There was a question in their depths. He recognized it as he had one too.

“Damn,” he muttered then took her mouth with his. Any idea of intimidating her fell away the moment his lips met hers. A surge of desire took him under, and he slipped his tongue into her mouth, swirling in its depths.

His entire body quivered at the spicy flavor of her. She tasted as good as she smelled, with a hint of cloves and cinnamon. Then her tongue hesitantly moved against his as though she was unfamiliar with doing so, and he nearly groaned. He tilted his head to deepen the kiss.

Her gloved hand fluttered up to the side of his face, whether to push him away or draw him closer, he didn’t know.

The knock on the carriage door had him jerking back.

“We’re blockin’ traffic,” his footman called out.

Nathaniel shook his head in an attempt to clear it. The woman appeared as startled as he. Indeed, she should be after that potent kiss. He quickly opened the door and exited to assist her in alighting right outside the bookstore she’d named, as promised.

Her hand trembled in his as she stepped down to the street. Rather than please him, as it had been his initial intent to frighten her, it angered him. Now that he’d been successful in scaring her, regret filled him. Somewhere deep inside, he’d wanted her to enjoy that kiss as much as he had.

“Do not venture there again,” he said then cleared his suddenly dry throat. “It’s far too dangerous. Do I make myself clear?”

“Perfectly,” she answered as she looked up at him.

He stared hard at her. Surely that couldn’t be delight in the depths of her eyes or a hint of a smile on those luscious lips. Not when her hand shook so. She pulled it from his grasp.

“Good day, Mr. Hawke.” She turned and walked into the bookstore without a backward glance.

LOVING THE HAWKE is available at Amazon

Connect with Lana at:

Website

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Laurel O'Donnell - Medieval Romance Novels, Paranormal Romance Novels and Urban Fantasy

Today’s First Kiss Friday featured guest is Marianne Rice, author of contemporary romance Sweet on You.  Welcome Marianne!

Designed by TOJ PUBLISHING SERVICES
www.tojpublishing.com

A bit about Sweet on You –

Rayne Wilde wants the husband, the house full of children and the white picket fence. Which is why she cannot sleep with Trent, the confirmed bachelor whom she’s befriended. As their friendship grows and skeletons creep out of their closets, their relationship is put to the test. Stakes get higher, and the spark between them burns hotter than ever before. Can they handle the heat when life-changing secrets are exposed, or will the fear of being burned send them on two different paths?

First Kiss from Sweet on You –

Trent stormed in the house and zeroed in on Rayne. Cote and Thomas were flirting shamelessly with her and Claire in the kitchen. Not caring how cavemanish he looked, he grabbed Rayne by the arm and pulled her down the hall. “Come with me. Now.”

Shoving open his bedroom door, he pulled Rayne inside, slamming it behind her, then stalked up to her, pinning her to the wall with his body. Almost. He didn’t dare touch her. But he had to fix this mess.

“Trent, what’s wrong? You look…” She reached up to touch his face but he grabbed her wrist and pinned it to the wall above her head. Her gasp turned him on far more than it should have. He braced himself, propping his body away from hers.

“I…” he crushed his mouth to hers quickly, “…am not…” he whispered now, staring down at her pink, wet lips, and slowly brushed them with his mouth. “Gay.” He opened his mouth and prayed to God she would let him in. No coaxing necessary. Rayne opened up and gave him free rein.

It was true bliss. Strawberries and cream. He licked her, played with her, and she gave as much as she took. Her free hand fisted his shirt and pulled him closer. Damn. He could do this all day. The bed was five steps behind him. He knew he could dance her over, lay her down and strip her of her tight denim shorts and sexy-as-sin red tank top. And she’d love every minute of it.

Someone moaned.

Rayne Wilde had lips and a body that were meant for loving—but no, Rayne Wilde was made for more than that. For true love. White knight. House. Kids. Promises. Trent was none of those things and he respected her too much to pretend otherwise. And making out with her like a dog in heat would only fill her head with romantic thoughts. And Trent was anything but romantic. And the exact opposite of relationship material. Damn. She molded her body to his, asking—hell, begging—for him to give her more. Rayne didn’t deserve this. He couldn’t let her think the kiss was anything more than a point being proven. Next thing he knew she’d be picking out flowers for the wedding.

Reluctantly, Trent pulled back and leaned his forehead against hers. “Clear?”

“Wow.” Her milk chocolate eyes darkened, and he imagined what they’d look like if he touched more than just her lips.

Yeah, totally shouldn’t have done that. She wanted a husband and kids. Badly. And she had a guy in the other room who was probably willing to give her a multitude of babies and the American Dream.

“I’m not, never have been, and never will be. Got it?”

“Hmm?”

“Gay. I’m not gay.”

“What?” She seemed to wake up now. Loosening her grip on his shirt, she tried to step back, but the wall prevented her from moving.

Realizing he had her trapped, Trent moved away, allowing her some room.

“You’re not gay?”

Trent rubbed both hands up and down his face. “Not even close. Why the hell would you think that?”

If he could only read the thoughts going on in that sexy mind of hers.

“But…Zumba?”

“Zumba? Zumba made you think I was gay?”

“No, well, yeah.” She pulled her hands through her hair—which she wore down, and damn if he didn’t find that sexy—and sighed. “The only men who have ever taken my class have been…gay.”

“We’ve been friends for over a month, talk almost every day, hang out a few times a week, and you hadn’t figured out that I’m not?”

“Well.” She was flustered and adorable, her lips begging to be kissed again. “Then there was Faith.”

“Faith told you I was gay?”

Rayne laughed. “No.” She relaxed a little and finally made eye contact. Damn those silky eyes. They made him think of erotic images of chocolate sauce and sweet whipped cream and all the wonderful ways he and Rayne could experiment and play. “Brian came in with her and you two seemed so sweet together with the baby. And she looks like him and also like you…I know that doesn’t make sense. She couldn’t obviously be both of yours but it’s clear how much you both love her and each other.”

“Faith is my niece, my only relative other than Claire, and I love her dearly. Brian, well, yeah, I love him in the brother way, not…” He gestured with his hand.

“And you dismiss the looks and pick-up lines from so many women like they mean nothing to you. It’s like you’re embarrassed because they don’t know your secret. And the way you treat me…our friendship. You’ve never treated me like a piece of meat, or like you were trying to get in my pants. I thought you actually wanted to be…friends.”

Trent cursed. Friends. The worst F word in the dictionary. She wanted his friendship and so she’d have it. Obviously hurt after years of being raked over the coals by so many men, she didn’t need him pawing at her.

“Definitely friends, Rayne. Always friends. I’m sorry I kissed you. I shouldn’t have. I just…needed you to know that I’m not…gay. It won’t happen again. We’re cool, right?”

BUY LINKS:

http://www.mariannerice.com/

amazon.com/author/mariannerice

http://www.limitlesspublishing.net/product-category/pre-orders/

Laurel O'Donnell - Medieval Romance Novels, Paranormal Romance Novels and Urban Fantasy

Today’s First Kiss Friday featured guest is Marie Higgins, author of historical romance Secrets and Lies.  Welcome Marie! 

A bit about Secrets and Lies –

On secret assignment from President Grant, Nicole Bastian is tasked with investigating a string of train robberies in which government money was stolen. The stakes are high and she is utterly devastated when she uncovers information that indicates the man of her dreams, Ashton Lee, one of the wealthy owners of Conrail is the number one suspect. Desperate to remain cool and impartial, Nicole strives to keep her suspicions quiet until she learns what Ashton is keeping from her. At the same time, she’s determined to keep her own secrets from Ashton, hoping he never finds out.

Ashton Lee is immediately attracted to the woman he’d met at the masked ball. Unfortunately, there’s something not right about her, and he can’t put his finger on why he thinks this way. She’s mysterious, beautiful, but very secretive. Dare he allow her to soften his heart? And more importantly, will she understand why he keeps secrets from her?

First Kiss in Secrets and Lies –

“Tell me, Miss Bastian, why are you grinning right now?”

She shrugged. “As hard as it is for me to admit, I was thinking the same thing as you—about getting away from those men. I find it quite humorous that you can read my mind.”

If only Ashton could read it now. The way her stare latched onto him made him wonder what else was going through her mind at this moment. He stepped closer and dared do what he’d wanted to do a few minutes ago when she’d taken off her mask. He ran the back of his knuckles over her soft cheek. Her skin was just as smooth as he’d imagined. “I would like to read your mind now.”

Suddenly, the laughter left her expression, and in its place was desire. He liked seeing that. Liked it too much.

“No,” she said in a soft voice. “Reading my mind now would not be a good thing.”

“And why not?”

The side of her mouth pulled up into a half-grin. “What would you say if I admitted that you are no longer my Prince Charming?”

“I’m not?” His heartbeat stalled, not knowing if that was a good thing—or bad.

“No. You’ve swiftly become my knight in shining armor, instead.”

Peace settled inside his chest. “Why, may I ask?”

“For rescuing me.”

Strange emotions surrounded his heart and crawled up his neck, making it hard to swallow. “Oh.” His voice came out much too low. “I’ve just seen the way those men are with women. They aren’t very respectable, and that’s when they are sober. I don’t want to know how they would act around a woman as lovely as yourself when they are filled with liquor.”

This time it was her turn to move closer as she placed a hand on his chest. Her touch almost shot his breath right out of his lungs as warmth spread through him, starting where her hand rested.

“Then indeed, you are my knight,” she said.

He took hold of her hand, but kept it against his chest as he stared deep into her shadowed eyes. Desire stirred in him like never before. This wasn’t good at all! “Miss Bastian, you shouldn’t say such things to me.”

“Why not?”

“Because I’ve never felt more like a man than I do right now in your presence.” He slid his free arm around her waist, and closed the space between them. “And that, my dear, could get very dangerous out here, all alone with me in the shadows, and in the moonlight.”

A small gasp sprang from her throat, but she didn’t move her hand, nor did she pull away. Her head tilted back as she gazed up into his face. Heavens, she looked so lovely. He really needed to get control over his emotions. Feeling like this for a woman he didn’t fully trust was not a good thing. But being with her had indeed made him feel more like a man than anytime he could recall.

The smile remained on her pleasant expression. “Once again, Mr. Lee, your words have warned me to stay away from you, but your actions speak something entirely different. Do you or do you not want me to leave?”

Chuckling softly, he shook his head. “I wish I knew my own mind right now, but I fear I cannot even govern my own thoughts, because although you should leave, I want you to stay in my arms.”

He leaned in further, wanting to kiss her so badly, but he fought the urge. Instead, he closed his eyes and rubbed his cheek against hers. Skin as soft as silk smelled faintly of roses. He could easily get lost in her fragrance. Her free hand slid up his arm to his shoulder, then to his hair as her fingers threaded through his hair. The warmth from her touch melted him, and although he knew this shouldn’t be happening, he had no power to stop it.

A quiver rushed inside him, and her body trembled against his. Smiling, he continued to rub his cheek against hers, but soon his face dropped to the curve of her neck. Her delicate skin was so close to his mouth, he just had to rub his lips over her flesh.

Another gasp escaped her, this time it was much lower than before. No more were her hands stroking over his prince costume, instead they were grasping the material as if she didn’t want him to pull away.

Her breathing grew heavy and breezed against his ear. This woman definitely knew how to make him come alive—which had never happened to him before. He didn’t know if it was their costumes, their roles of Cinderella and Prince Charming, or if it was just because he was looking for a distraction from the stress happening in his life right now, but Miss Nicole Bastian was certainly affecting him in ways he could not comprehend. Perhaps he should worry about it, but right now, he’d just relax and enjoy the moment.

“Ashhh-ton,” she sighed deeply, “what are you doing to me?”

The sound of his name on her lips was like Heavenly harps playing in his ears. He wanted to laugh with delight, knowing he was affecting her the same way she was doing to him. But laughing would only ruin the mood right now, and he could not have that.

He lifted his head just enough to peer into her face. Her eyes had been closed, but then opened slightly as she met his gaze. His heartbeat pounded so fiercely like a runaway train, and he knew he must kiss her or collapse.

“What am I doing to you, Nicole?” he whispered.

The smile touched her eyes seconds before her mouth stretched wider. “You’re making me believe in fairytales. You’re making me think dreams really do come true.”

Releasing a groan, he pressed his mouth against hers. Immediately, her arms wrapped around his neck and she responded to his kiss just as he hoped she would. Fireworks exploded behind his eyes. Indeed, he’d never experienced such a kiss, and Heaven help him, he wanted more kisses like this…more from her and only her.

Buy on Kindle – http://amzn.com/B00US3BKAI

Buy paperback – http://amzn.com/1519332718

Laurel O'Donnell - Medieval Romance Novels, Paranormal Romance Novels and Urban Fantasy

Cozy up under a warm blanket on this Christmas Day and read how kissing under the mistletoe really started!  My medieval holiday novella, Mistletoe Magic, is now available!  Only 99 cents for this charming story.    Here’s the first kiss between Jaclyn and Alexander.

Jaclyn held the bag over her shoulder as she ran through the tall grass in the field, avoiding the knights’ tents just over the rise. She rushed into the forest, not breaking her pace. She had come this way so many times that she could do it in her sleep. She easily leaped over a fallen tree and skirted some bushes. Dappled moonlight washed over the leaves on the floor, shining through the trees from above. Jaclyn hurried forward. She hoped Paul would remember to bring his horse, Nilly, so they could practice the joust.

When she broke into the clearing she could see the pond glistening beneath the stars above. She put the bag on the ground and spun, searching for Paul.

The mistletoe glen was empty. Chills of apprehension shivered up her spine. It is all right, she told herself. It’s early yet. He still has time.

She sat on the ground. Where was he? She tried to concentrate on something else. The feast this eve had gone well. There had been no fighting. But she guessed all the men were on their best behavior before the joust. When the joust began and there were official losers, then she guessed she would see more unchivalrous behavior.

She looked over her shoulder. Where was Paul? Suddenly, she heard footsteps. She stood, her heart thundering with joy.

Alexander exploded into the clearing. He looked around the clearing. “Where’s Paul?”

Her happiness vanished. What was he doing here? Following her again? She scowled. “He’s not here yet.”

He marched straight for her. “You came here to practice?”

“Well,” Jaclyn stammered,”when Paul gets here.”

“D’Sayre is coming.”

“What?”

“He followed you.” Alexander kicked the bag behind the tree.

“Why is he following me? Why are you following me?”

He grabbed her arm. “D’Sayre is trying to learn your secrets. Me? I just want a kiss.” He pulled her into his embrace and pressed his lips to hers.

Laurel O'Donnell - Medieval Romance Novels, Paranormal Romance Novels and Urban Fantasy

Today’s First Kiss Friday featured guest is Michele Drier, author of paranormal romance SNAP: The World Unfolds.  Welcome Michele! 

A bit about SNAP: The World Unfolds –

SNAP, a multinational celeb TV show and magazine, is the holy grail for Maxie Gwenoch. When she snags the job as managing editor, she’s looking for fame, fortune and Jimmy Choos. What she finds is a media empire owned by Baron Kandesky and his family. A family of vampires. They’re European, urbane, wealthy and mesmerizing. And when she meets Jean-Louis, vampire and co-worker, she’s a goner.

The Kandesky vampire family rose in Hungary centuries ago. They gave up violence and killing to make a killing on the world’s commodities markets and with that beginning they built SNAP, an international celebrity multimedia empire. Now cultured…and having found food substitutes for killing…they’ve cornered the world market for celebrity and gossip journalism.

They haven’t fully left the past behind.   Their Hungarian neighbors and rival vampire clan, the Huszars are starting to ramp up attacks, maybe looking to start a war to take over all the Kandeskys have built.

Maxie believes she’s found her ultimate career.   She doesn’t understand that she’s found a family feud like none other, a centuries-old rivalry between vampire families, with her as the linchpin. Bells ring with Jean-Louis, but she only realizes they’re alarm sirens when she learns that Jean-Louis is second in command of the Kandeskys, and by then it’s too late.

The first kiss in SNAP: The World Unfolds –

I went into the cabin, looked at the big bed, chose a side, turned on a bedside lamp and got ready to read myself to sleep. Sometime later I jerked awake. Someone was in the room with me. I wasn’t awake enough to remember this room was at 35,000 feet; I screamed. A short scream and just one sound before Jean-Louis put his hand over my mouth. “Hush.”

He was glimmering and his eyes were so dark they looked black. He smiled at me, broad enough that I glimpsed his fangs as he leaned toward me. I lurched upright and shrank away.

“Maxie, what’s wrong?’

His voice, soft and lulling, brought me fully awake. “I’m sorry, I guess I was still asleep.”

“Dreaming again?”

“No,” I shook my head. Had I been dreaming? There weren’t any noises like before. No vestiges of chases or feelings of fear.

“I wanted to talk to you about the plans. Stefan has allocated a suite of eight rooms for you. It’s in the same wing as my suite. You have your apartment and your maid has a room as well.   We know, or we assumed, that you’ve never lived with other people and servants around, so we set it up to give you as much privacy as possible. We, I, want you to feel this is your home”

I got stuck on “your maid,”

“I have a maid assigned? Who?”

“Lisbet’s sister has agreed to come and work for as long as you’re there.   She’s been working in Budapest but was glad to come home. Her name’s Elise. I think you’ll like her.”

Once again, the vampires had done it right. They were courtly, mannered, urbane. I flashed on suggesting that they give lessons to the world’s diplomats.

“If we were great at diplomacy, we’d have won over the Huszars by now,” his glimmer got stronger. He ran his hand down my face and my skin tingled.

This time, when he leaned toward me, I didn’t flinch. His lips caressed my face, my ear lobes, my eyebrows. I closed my eyes, my bones melting, and began an almost purr as he kissed my eyelids.

“You are soft,” he whispered as his hands pulled up the shirt I was sleeping in. He found my mouth with his tongue and sucked my tongue into him. Fangs? No, they were gone. His kiss was so deep I couldn’t breathe. He touched my breasts and ran a hand down, over my thigh. I couldn’t resist. My body was limp and I silently told him to do whatever he wanted to. He heard my language, and slowly, slowly made love to me.   It was outside any sensations, any sex, I’d ever had and after it was over, we lay twined together.

If this was an introduction to my new world, I was ready.

Buy Links –

http://amzn.com/B0059K50D8

https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/snap-the-world-unfolds (Kobo)

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/snap-michele-drier/1112308381?ean=2940012818157 (Nook)

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id683793091 (iTunes)

http://www.amazon.com/Michele-Drier/e/B005D2YC8G/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0 (Amazon author page)

Laurel O'Donnell - Medieval Romance Novels, Paranormal Romance Novels and Urban Fantasy

Today’s First Kiss Friday featured guest is Amber Kallyn, author of paranormal romance Bloodstorm.  Welcome Amber!  Today is an extra special feature as this book is FREE at all e-retailers!

A bit about Bloodstorm –

When duty forces a shaman to stop a vampire from her revenge, love doesn’t just burn… it bites.

For two hundred years, Niki DeVeraux has been tracking the monster who murdered her family and made her a vampire. She finally catches up to him only to face more than she bargained for in a too-sexy sheriff who makes her remember she’s still a woman. With duties as Keeper of the Peace and sheriff, Shane Spencer must protect humanity and stop the friction between the local Arcaine races before it turns into an all out blood war.

First Kiss in Bloodstorm –

There was little warning as the air stirred. The sheriff slammed his hands on the fence, one on either side of her, trapping Niki between his body and the wood.

She glanced up at him, amused.

He practically bit out his words. “I have a dead shifter with vampire marks, a truce close to breaking, though hell if I can figure out all the whys, and a Rogue vampire in town.”

His scent overwhelmed her and Niki couldn’t resist playing with fire. Just a little. She leaned closer. “And I’m obviously guilty. After all, I’m a murderer merely because I’m a vampire.”

She bared her fangs.

He didn’t flinch. His face reddened and he glanced past her, to the wooden fence, before meeting her gaze once more. His voice softened the tiniest bit. “I didn’t mean that the way it sounded.”

“Oh? It was pretty clear to me.”

He opened his mouth, then snapped it shut. Niki continued to stare at him, wondering what he’d been about to say.

“Look,” Shane said, his voice soft and seductive now. She didn’t trust it. “I believe you didn’t do this. But if you know who’s behind the killings, I need to know too.”

“You can’t con me with sweet smiles and pretty words,” she replied, though her breath came just a little faster at his nearness. He smelled of soap and smoke and spice. It set her nerves on edge and she could barely think as his scent filled her.

His eyes widened as if he could read her thoughts. She licked her lips and his gaze drew lower, to her mouth. He swallowed loudly, drawing a tiny bit closer.

As if pulled by some magnetic field emanating from him, Niki leaned in.

She stared into his golden eyes, unable to break from his gaze, to move back from the hot energy rolling off his body.

“Niki,” he whispered huskily, need in his voice. His shoulders tightened and his jaw clenched.

If she hadn’t been who she was, her body would have melted into a puddle, right then and there. She couldn’t bring herself to pull away.

Time stood still, the rest of the world fading into nothingness. Thoughts of her duty faded. All she could do was stand before him as her body came alive, reminding her she was a woman.

Shane growled, crossing the last hairsbreadth of distance between them. He pressed his lips to hers, firm and warm.

Gasping against his mouth, she drank in the feeling.

His touch was electrifying. Inside her, something long dormant and frozen for centuries began to wake. The short stubble on his chin scraped against her skin deliciously.

An unbidden desire to embrace him fully pushed at her. Her hands curled with the thought of what his skin, his flowing hair would feel like. The thought finally gave her a sliver of control. She broke away, slipping beneath his arm and backing up to the other side of the alley.

She stared at him, breathing fast and sharp.

He seemed shaken. As unsteady as she felt.

“I don’t…” he stopped, as if unsure what to say.

She remained mute, confusion fogging her mind. Then a survival instinct kicked in. She had to get away from this powerful man who could make her feel. She turned and raced into the night.

Buy Links:

Free at all E-tailers

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Bloodstorm-Heart-Vampire-Book-1-ebook/dp/B007R730AQ

Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bloodstorm-amber-kallyn/1110202585?ean=2940044763555

Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/bloodstorm-heart-of-a-vampire-book-1

iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/bloodstorm-heart-vampire-book/id545540711?mt=11&ign-mpt=uo%3D4

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Amber_Kallyn_Bloodstorm?id=A-qmAgAAQBAJ

Laurel O'Donnell - Medieval Romance Novels, Paranormal Romance Novels and Urban Fantasy