Louisa Bacio -- Love Knows No Bounds

Valentine’s Blogfest, Day 6: First Fight

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:40:00 +0000

Warning: This blog contains major spoilers for Buffy the Vampire Slayer, so if you’ve never watched and plan to … beware. Today we're talking First Fights.

Innocence Lost.

1998: Season two, episode 14 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer broke my heart … and the heart of many viewers, along with that of Buffy Summers. In the episode “Innocence,” Angel loses his soul, and he turns viciously evil.

It wasn’t like Buffy had a relationship with Angel like she later did with Spike – fighting infused her liaison with the uber-sexy blond vampire. With Angel, it was more brooding and mooning, but when they were together … pure swoon.

And then she gives it up, experiences pure passion and Angel loses all control. What’s the message? Buffy was a “bad, bad, girl.” I cannot stand stories that “punish” a woman for her sexuality.

Still, after that break with Angel, it was hard to build back the trust, and truly it never was the same again, was it? Although the doomed couple tried, it went completely downhill from there. That’s the part that’s so difficult in fiction – and in real life – how do you come back? The key is to make the odds not so insurmountable. And not quite so bad. We understood and liked Angel after all he did, but that fear of “what if” always lurked.

In my erotic paranormal series, The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf, it’s Trevor – the were – who does most of the running from heated situations. If I break it down from a psychological perspective, it’s within his innate nature. He yearns for freedom, and at the same time craves the closeness of his family, his pack. Here’s a fight from book 2, Chains of Silver:

“Don’t push me,” Trevor said, and moved to bump his chest against Lawrence’s much taller form. “You’ve had your say. You have no idea what it feels like. I need to watch over her before her first shift. What if something happens without her knowing, when she’s with him? In that case, the hunter may become the hunted. And I can’t lose her again.”

“We all know how you handle potential separation, and loss, don’t we? And, if you don’t remember, we have plenty of unfinished business with Madame Teresa, which I have you to thank for.”

“For crying out loud. That again?”

“What do you mean, ‘that again?’ You don’t owe a favor to a high priestess of Voodoo. You don’t have to dig up a dead Queen’s bones.”

“You want some bones? I can find you bones. What else am I good for as a wolf?” Trevor responded.

Available via Amazon, and other e-retailers.

If one’s good, two’s better … then three has to be CRAZY, right? As part of my prizes, I’m giving away a daily prize of an electronic copy of one of the books from my backlist, and a few Grand Prizes:

1) $25 See’s Candy gift certificate

2) Certificate for a pound of See’s Candy

3) $10 Certificate for Ravenous Romance

Oh, yes, you get your own sweets! Leave a comment with an email address so I can contact the winners. (1 winner for each prize. Daily winners also will be entered into the Grand prize.)

Don’t forget to visit the other authors on these hops, and come back tomorrow for more “firsts.”

Vampires for Valentine's

For other participants on the "With Love, Valentine's Day Blog Hop," visit the Main Event Page.

From Sloppy to Sexy: First Kisses & Valentine's Wishes

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0000

My very first kiss took place in kindergarten in an oversized tire on the playground. I got reprimanded for smacking lips with Danny, and it only went uphill from there.

I used to play in our “bonus room” with the garage door open. In 6^th grade, J. rode his bike over. When he leaned in, I’m not sure what I was expecting, but it wasn’t what I got. I stayed closed lips, and went in for a full tongue-swapping, and the outcome wasn’t all that great. The next few years, there wasn’t too much to kiss-and-tell. After experimenting early, I hit a dry spell until high school. And then: Watch out.

These days, I’ve heard rumors against “public displays” in school. Back then, a little lip-locking in front of the classroom upped the hormones. But, still, there were those awkward firsts. In 9^th grade, I became the first for S., right in front of geometry. His teeth dug into my upper lip, and he sucked off the foundation surrounding my chin. (Oh yes, I wore MUCH heavier make-up those days.)

In fiction, thank goodness first kisses don’t go quite so badly. Instead, all the magic that one would want happens. Here’s a look at a first kiss in The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Threesome. Notice, though, the viewpoint: Someone not taking part in the kiss.

Lawrence leaned in and started to kiss Lily, softly on her lips, and then trailing down to her chin, and neck. She moaned, and Trevor knew intimately the sensations Lawrence created. The way his soft lips felt along his burning skin. Now Law centered that loving on Lily, but not a hint of jealousy ran through Trevor. Instead, his senses were on alert with anticipation.

With one swift movement, Lawrence pulled that delicate sweater over Lily’s head, exposing her beautiful full breasts. She wore a black lace bra, and the sight of that, with her pale white skin beneath, made Trevor’s heart race. Reaching up, Law pulled the straps down her shoulders, fully exposing her before deftly removing her bra.

Lily pulled her arms up to cover her chest, and Lawrence moved them back down again, holding them lightly behind her back.

“There’s no reason to cover yourself in front of us,” Lawrence said. “We want to see you in all your beauty. Don’t we, Trev?”

Available via Amazon, and other e-retailers.

1) $25 See’s Candy gift certificate

2) Certificate for a pound of See’s Candy

3) $10 Certificate for Ravenous Romance

Oh, yes, you get your own sweets! Leave a comment with an email address so I can contact the winners. (1 winner for each prize. Daily winners also will be entered into the Grand prize.)

Don’t forget to visit the other authors on these hops, and come back tomorrow for more “firsts.”

Vampires for Valentine's

For other participants on the "With Love, Valentine's Day Blog Hop," visit the Main Event Page.

Valentine’s Blog-A-Palooza, Day 4: First Dance

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 08:58:00 +0000

“Purple Rain” by Prince. “Careless Whispers” by WHAM! “Safety Dance” by Men Without Hats, when it meant more than an ’80s station on satellite radio. In junior high school, I spent most of the dances huddled with my girlfriends and whispering about the boys we liked. High school drifted into an experience of bodies tightly pressed on the dance floor.

I’ll be your freakazoid baby.

In college, I discovered musicians, not just bands. If a sexy man could play the guitar and sing to me … sigh. It made everything better. When I started covering bands, I fell in love with hot, strong female singers like mmmm, Bif Naked.

The subject of today’s blog, first dances, made me realize that none of my novels feature dancing. Music plays heavily, but no actual moving to the beat. I’ll have to fix that real soon. When it comes to Vampires, my favorite song continues to be “Bloodletting (The Vampire Song” by Concrete Blonde. It’s just too easy to imagine a few bloodsuckers swaying to the intoxicating beat. Have a listen

http://www.last.fm/music/Concrete+Blonde/Bloodletting

Look at all that LOVE! If one’s good, two’s better … then three has to be CRAZY, right? As part of my prizes, I’m giving away a daily prize of an electronic copy of one of the books from my backlist, and a few Grand Prizes:

1) $25 See’s Candy gift certificate

2) Certificate for a pound of See’s Candy

3) $10 Certificate for Ravenous Romance

Oh, yes, you get your own sweets! Leave a comment with an email address so I can contact the winners. (1 winner for each prize. Daily winners also will be entered into the Grand prize.)

Don’t forget to visit the other authors on these hops, and come back tomorrow for more “firsts.”

Vampires for Valentine's

For other participants on the "With Love, Valentine's Day Blog Hop," visit the Main Event Page.

How Suspense Ups the Sexual Tension with Tory Richards

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0000

If you’re looking for the Valentine’s Day Blogfest & Vampires for Valentine’s Day BlogHop, that’s one post below. But, Tory is offering up prizes, too!

Tory will be awarding a $20 egift certificate to Bath and Body to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour, and the host with the most comments gets a prize, too! So, show me some love!

My host for today has chosen a topic that pretty much defines the plot to The Mercenary Way. Heroine gets kidnapped. Hero rescues her. Bad guys are after them. Plenty of suspense as they make their way through an island jungle toward freedom. Sexual tension develops and grows with each incident that threatens to throw them into danger. So tell me, what’s not thrilling about a sexual encounter right on the edge of something precarious happening?

Suspense adds an extra element that raises the blood pressure, intensifies a situation so that all of your senses become alert, and engaged in that particular development. You might find yourself asking, what if I don’t get a chance to do this again? If I’m not going to be here tomorrow does it really matter if I eat that whole pie today? Get drunk or have the hottest sex I can with that stranger in the elevator? Being in a suspenseful situation where the outcome might be your demise almost compels you into doing or experiencing something you might not otherwise.

I looked up the meaning of suspense in the dictionary. It can mean enjoyable tension, a feeling of tense excitement about how something such as a movie will end. Or, anxiety, a state of intense worry about something. Number one was uncertainty, a condition of being unsure or in doubt about something. The suspense of getting caught in that quickie in the office at work, or in the back seat of a taxi might just be the best sex you’ll ever have. You don’t think, you just do it. What the consequences might be doesn’t enter into the picture.

The intense sex scenes in The Mercenary Way stem from several components. Clint’s number one main objective is to get Sarah off the island alive. Keeping her safe often creates an intimate situation between them that is heightened by the uncertainty of making it home alive. Add that to the strong attraction between them and you have the recipe for some hot, passionate lovin. And not always in a bed.

Excerpt –

His arms came out to catch her, the force of her fall catching him off guard. Suddenly, they were both crashing to the ground. He hit it with a grunt, his body cushioning the fall for her. For the second time that day, Sarah was sprawled on top of him. She began to wiggle like an eel out of water, aware of the intimacy of their situation but she didn’t care.

“Just what the hell are you doing?” Clint’s hands went to her waist as if to push her off. “Stop your damn wiggling,” he groaned.

Sarah ignored the deceptive calm in his voice. Too busy making sure she wasn’t lying in any of the sludge surrounding them, which meant remaining on top of him. She couldn’t help noticing everything about him was as hard as granite.

“I don’t want to get mud on me. Or snakes, or bugs, or anything else equally horrible,” she explained. Did any woman? Surely, he understood that.

“You don’t…” His hard tone was filled with disbelief. “Are you for real? You expect to trek for three days across an island and come out smelling like a rose?” His snort reminded her of an angry bull. “Not likely, angel.” In one swift movement, Clint reversed their positions, putting Sarah on the bottom. “You’re going to get more than a little mud on you.” She cried in outrage but he ignored her, grinding his body into hers. “I want to make sure you’re as covered in mud as I am.”

Clint took hold of both her wrists in one hand, and using his other, grabbed up fistfuls of mud. He ran it beneath her collar and at the opening where her shirt rode up her waist. The more his weight bore her into the ground, the more it filled every nook and cranny. Sarah felt every masculine inch against her.

“Damn you!” Struggling against him was useless. “Get off me!” She arched her body in an effort to throw him off. He thrust against her to keep her in place. “You’ve proven your point, I’m dirty enough!”

“Oh, I don’t know about that.” Clint pinned both her arms on either side of her head, making sure they were flat upon the muddy ground. He smiled down at her like a hungry wolf. “They say mud is good for the skin,” he commented outrageously. “Maybe I should strip you so you can fully benefit from the free spa treatment.”

Sarah could see the white of his teeth. “You do and it will be the last thing you ever do!” She promised, her voice tight. “Short of killing you, there are a number of ways I can think of to get even. Now get off me!”

The Mercenary Way came out Feb 1, 2012 with The Wild Rose Press.

http://www.thewildrosepress.com/all-the-right-moves-p-4254.html?zenid=ce68d670cc151320930aa9d067970d2d

Blurb:

When a ruthless gem smuggler mistakes Sarah for her best friend Susan, she's kidnapped and stashed on an island. Her only hope of rescue is Susan's cousin Clint -- a soldier-of-fortune whose my-way-or-else attitude is as infuriating as his muscular body is distracting.

Clint, ex-Navy SEAL turned mercenary, desperately needs a vacation. Rescuing a kidnapped woman from an island paradise isn't what he had in mind. And when he encounters Sarah's sassy mouth and tempting ways, he soon realizes he's the one in trouble.

____________

I hope you enjoyed the excerpt. It’s been a joy being here today. I always love making new friends! Please visit the following link for more information about me and my books. And join me on Twitter and Facebook. Thanks!

www.toryrichards.com

https://twitter.com/#!/ToryRichards

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100000953754308

About Tory Richards

I'm a fifty-something author who discovered my passion for writing and story telling at the ripe old age of thirteen. Before I received my first manual typewriter, with pencil in hand, I would jot my stories down on notebook paper. Later, after receiving that desired typewriter I spent hours in my bedroom, where my parents thought I was doing homework. Writing turned out to be a kind of therapy for me, something I didn't realize until years later.

I also hold down a full time day job. So basically I'm working all the time. Only writing is a hobby for me, something I do during the quiet of the evenings and on my weekends. My goals are simple and realistic. By the time I retire I'll be happy if I'm just making enough "mad money" from it to be able to travel a little, and spoil my grandchildren.

I'll travel any place a cruise ship will take me. I've been to: Greece, Italy, Croatia, Spain, and Alaska just to name a few places. I don't like to fly, even before I found myself on a plane on 9/11, but I will if I'm given enough legal drugs. I collect antiques and art, and I love chocolate, who doesn't? And I'm addicted to good coffee and sweet ice tea.

For a while life got in the way of my dreams. A few years ago I decided to get serious and haven't looked back!

Check out Tory's other stops on her tour through Goddess Fish Promotions.

Valentine’s Blogfest Day 3: First Date & Vampires for Valentine’s

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0000

Along with day 3 of the Ravencraft’s Valentine’s Blogfest, today kicks off the start of the Vampires for Valentine’s BogHop! It’s a round-up of love!

With the theme of firsts, today we’re talking first dates. Seal Beach, seafood and a romantic walk along the pier encompassed my first date with hubby. As we sat in the cool sand, I buried my feet and gazed into the setting sun. At that moment, I didn’t know how important the man next to me would become in my life. Yet, with every first date – there’s always that thrill of potential.

Here’s an excerpt from my m/m paranormal novella The Vampire & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Christmas. On their first night out together, Lawrence takes Trevor to Pirates Alley, where he introduces Trevor to the allure of absinthe.

Lawrence took another sip, letting the licorice-flavored liquid rest against his tongue in a gentle caress before swallowing. Oh, yes, the silky feeling begins. He’d spent more than one memorable night tucked in the back of the bar, afterhours, with Ms. Sarah. Tonight, though, he hoped Trevor let go of some of his inhibitions.

He shifted his leg under the bar, moving it so it rested ever so slightly against Trevor’s warm thigh. At the touch, the were looked down at their legs, but didn’t move away. A pulse of exhilaration shot through Lawrence. To feel like this, after all his time on earth … that meant something.

Available via Amazon, and other e-retailers.

Thanks for stopping by on day 3 of this Valentine’s Blogfest and the kickoff of the Vampires for Valentine’s Bloghop. As part of my prize, I’m giving away a daily prize of an electronic copy of one of the books from my backlist, a Grand Prize of a $25 See’s Candy gift certificate and I'm adding in a gift certificate for a pound of See's Candy. Oh, yes, you get your own sweets! Leave a comment with an email address so I can contact the winners.

Don’t forget to visit the other authors on these hops, and come back tomorrow for more “firsts.”

Ravencraft’s Romance Realm Valentine’s Blogfest

Vampires for Valentine’s BogHop

Valentine’s Blogfest Day 2: First Touch

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:05:00 +0000

A light caress. The feather-light stroke of fingertips trailed down the bare skin of the arm. Warm breath on the back of one’s neck. Super-sigh: So many physical sensations can be a part of that magical first touch.

On a personal level, I’ve got a bizarre physical reaction when I’m physically attracted to someone, bordering on love. And, no we’re staying pg-13 on this blogfest so don’t go there! It’s an ache that happens in the palm of my hands. Can’t really explain why it happens, but along with that beating heart and fluttering in my stomach, this sensation radiates from my hands, throughout my body. Thinking back to first meeting my husband, guess what? It returns.

On the subject of first touches, here’s a glimpse from The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf: Chains of Silver. In the story, Nick – a vampire hunter – tries to fight his attraction for his best friend’s “little” sister, Silver.

He brought both arms around her, holding her steady. Her scent wafted up, and he thought of open fields and wildflowers. One drink, and she already acted tipsy. The head between his legs definitely wanted to take advantage of her. But the more elevated one on his shoulders knew that playing with Silver was dangerous business. Out of respect for Preacher Sam and his best friend, who also happened to be her older foster brother, Nick needed to stay far away.

Now that she was technically legal, and definitely all woman—at least physically, that determination might get harder and harder to keep.

One touch, and that resolve changes.

Available via Amazon, and other e-retailers.

Thanks for stopping by on day 2 of this Valentine’s Blogfest. As part of my prize, I’m giving away a daily prize of an electronic copy of one of the books from my backlist, and a Grand Prize of a $25 See’s Candy gift certificate. Oh, yes, you get your own sweets! Leave a comment with an email address so I can contact the winners.

Don’t forget to visit the other author’s on this blogfest, and come back tomorrow for more “firsts.”

Valentine's Week Blogfest, Day 1 -- First Sight

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:49:00 +0000

Thrilled to be part of this BlogHop with some amazing & sweet prizes. Ready for the "first sight" of my hubby. Hmmmm .... I remember what I noticed most about him -- wide, broad shoulders and calf muscles that wouldn't quit. He was in the Air Force, and all that training and carrying did him well.

As part of my prize, I'm giving away a daily prize of an electronic copy of one of the books from my backlist, and a Grand Prize of a $25 See's Candy gift certificate. Oh, yes, you get your own sweets! Leave a comment with an email address so I can contact the winners.

Don't forget to visit the other author's on this blogfest, and come back tomorrow for more "firsts."

The Lure of the Dark with Anne Brooke

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Today, we welcome Anne Brooke with her m/m book, The Heart's Greater Silence. Anne's hosting a few contests as part of her book release tour. See below for details!

I don’t know about you but there’s just something about dangerous men with dark secrets that draws me every time. Not so much in my real romantic life, as I like to think I have my head well and truly screwed on (as it were) – though that alluring glint in my husband’s eye is surely the exception that proves the rule!

Not, it’s in my writing life where I absolutely can’t resist a hint – well, okay, more than a hint – of danger. Ah yes, because difficult men are always the ones who make my fingers well and truly fly over the keyboard. Give me a past trauma and I’m smiling. Raise the possibility of thwarted love and obsession, and I start to dance. Talk to me about overwhelming tension and the immediate threat of death, and I’ll crack open the champagne.

Am I really that odd? Wouldn’t I prefer to write a light-hearted romance where everything is sunshine and roses? Um, well, no. Thank you. I’m not sure I’d know how. Even when I do go for a comic romance or two, I can’t help focusing on issues of betrayal, split families, thwarted love, hatred, envy and the possible ramifications of drugs. In a jolly manner, of course. Say no more …

Call it a misspent youth or a way to live a life and experience highs and lows not necessarily my own, but my favourite characters to write about are the ones with a high proportion of the dark in their psychological make-up. And my favourite themes are love and obsession, sex and death. Because I think that when I explore the dark side in my fiction, I also shine a light on issues in my own life, both past and present. In this sense, writing becomes – almost – a creative form of therapy in which I can face my own demons by bringing them out into the open and acknowledging their truth via the use of fiction. Well, it works for me anyway, and I also hope it works – to some extent or other – in the mind of the reader.

In this sense, both writing and reading the “difficult” stuff becomes a kind of catharsis where both writer and reader can discover more about themselves and, in the process, become more fully human and more fully alive. We are, after all, the only animals on the planet who read.

To get you more fully into that dark side, here’s an extract from my latest gay story, The Heart’s Greater Silence, where my protagonist, Mark, has some difficult choices to face in terms of his relationships with two very different men:

As usual, I chose a seat at the back of the church, out of immediate view. It was where I felt safest. I preferred to watch rather than take part. In matters of religion, it was what I was best at.

I was just about to close my eyes, which was the nearest I ever came to prayer, when a slight movement at my shoulder almost made me jump. Richard was standing next to me, his clerical cross drawing my gaze. I didn’t know how long he’d been there as I’d not been paying attention, but he nodded when I noticed him.

“Mark.”

“Richard.” I nodded back, swallowing. I wondered if he’d talk to me, but he simply smiled and continued to walk down the aisle towards the altar. I watched him go, his slight black-clad figure creating its own shadows in the dark and light of the church. He disappeared into the vestry, and I closed my eyes.

I didn’t know how long I sat there, doing and feeling nothing, but when I finally opened my eyes, all my questions remained.

Candles had been left on the side table near the altar. Two of them were lit and I wondered who’d put them there, if it had been Richard. I shook my head, suddenly afraid of how much it mattered that I knew. Sitting back and looking up at the decorated ceiling, I took a deep breath, wiped the back of my hand over my lips, and stood. The creaking of the pew might have woken the dead, if I believed in that kind of faith.

I should leave now, and I shouldn’t come back. Some things, however powerful, were best left alone. If I had any sense, I’d turn right round, walk out of the church, and head back to Craig’s. I should sit on his doorstep all bloody night, waiting for him to come out so I could beg him to give me another chance.

Still, when I started walking, it was away from the door, not towards it. The shadows and shapes of the church swallowed me up. It felt as if I were entering a land far removed from the familiarity behind me, which was ridiculous as I’d been here a hundred times before. It shouldn’t be this strange, or this lonely.

In front of the side table, I paused and gazed at the candles. They’d been placed slightly apart on the stand, so I reached out and moved them closer together. Some people say every candle is in fact a prayer, but I had no idea if that was true or not. Didn’t even know if I wanted it to be.

Making a decision at last, I swung away from the table, clattered down the steps next to it and entered the vestry. My heart was beating fast and my skin felt way too cold. The sudden burst of light in the small room I found myself in made me blink, and it took a second or two to focus on Richard’s willowy figure sitting in the corner.

“Hello,” he said quietly. “I didn’t think you’d come.”

__________________________________

You can find more information about The Heart’s Greater Silence at Riptide Publishing, where you can see all the details about my ongoing Blog Tour. The tour focuses on a variety of subjects, including favourite songs, the lure of the short story, church life, bullying, and an interview with Mark, to name but a few. If you visit any of the blogs listed, then you will be entered into a competition to win ebooks from my backlist, a gift certificate to spend on Riptide books, and a host of other goodies as well! So do visit and enjoy getting in touch with the dark side for yourself …

Anne’s contest and prizes:

1. I have one contest per stop - with the prize being a backlist ebook giveaway for one commenter.

2. I also have a cumulative competition throughout the blog tour involving answering 3 questions from HGS - with the prize being 3 backlist ebooks for one commenter from the tour as a whole. The questions are

(a) What item of his trade is Richard wearing when Mark sees him in church?
(b) When Craig discovers Mark and Richard together, what does he do just before leaving?
(c) What action does Mark take at the end of the story?

3. One signed cover flat and magnet for one commenter per stop - with this NOT being the winner of Item 1 (see above)

4. One gift certificate to be drawn at the end of the tour - with this NOT being the winner of Item 2 (see above).

Creative duo Brenda & Steve celebrate release of 5th book, "Rainie's Lake."

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Hi Louisa! Thank you for featuring us on your blog again. First we’d like to tell the readers about our new release, Rainie’s Lake, our fifth book to be published. We are so excited! Steve and I began writing together in 2008; more on how we reconnected below.

Here’s the blurb for Rainie’s Lake and excerpt. Enjoy! Oh, there will be a drawing! Details below.

Blurb:

Taking a long over due vacation, Art Instructor, Dylan Bishop is eager to start his trip to the cabin in the mountains. When he saw the photo online with the rental ad, he knew this was his destination. Being drawn to the lake nestled behind the cabin with a private dock, Dylan hopes to regain his inspiration to paint.

His vacation takes an erotic turn when he meets Rainie Marks on a foggy morning by the dock. She is the most beautiful woman he has ever seen. However, there is sadness and a mystery about her. Finding his inspiration, he sketches her one evening and unable to resist the passion that has sparked between them, Rainie and Dylan share a sensual night together.

When Rainie tells him the truth about her past and the lake, the mystery she hides unfolds. The key to everything is the lake. Will Dylan be able to help her put the past to rest?

Excerpt:

Dylan wakes up with the sheets tangled around his legs. Both pillows are tossed about the bed and the comforter is on the floor.

Rainie is gone.

Grabbing the sheets away, he sits on the edge, running his fingers through his hair. When did she leave? I must have slept hard to not hear her get up. Putting on his jeans, he quickly heads to the kitchen to look out the window, frantically searching the shoreline. Relieved, he sees her by the dock. Opening the back door, he shivers as the cold air hits his chest; ignoring it, he calls out to her.

“Rainie, it’s freezing out here. Come on up.”

She turns around and walks toward the deck. “You’re going to freeze to death if you don’t put more clothes on.”

“I’ll put more on if you come in for coffee.” He opens the door wider. As Rainie brushes past him, he inhales the lavender scent from her hair, reminding him of last night. “Well, we can take off our clothes once I build a fire and repeat last night.”

“Last night?”

“Yes, and I forgot to thank you for such a pleasurable night.” Shutting the door, Dylan reaches for her coat. “I’ll get the fire started and make coffee right quick.”

Rainie stares into the flames as he hands her a cup and places his on the coffee table. “I’ll go put on a shirt. It’ll be a while before the room warms up.” Noticing the distant look in her eyes, he takes her hand. “Are you all right?”

Smiling, she squeezes his hand. “Yes, hurry back.”

Rainie open up to me, please. My heart aches when you are sad.

As he walks from the bedroom, buttoning his shirt, the scene before him slams into his heart.

Sitting on the floor in front of the fire, she holds her cup tightly in her hands while rocking slowly back and forth. The heat from the flames has kissed her face, causing a pinkish glow on her cheeks. Something is bothering her. Grabbing his cup off the table and settling beside her, he leans over and pushes his shoulder affectionately against hers.

Nuzzling his nose close to her ear, he whispers, “A penny for your thoughts.”

Smiling, she closes her eyes, takes a deep breath and shifts her body to face him. “Dylan, what I’m about to tell you may seem far fetched, but please listen and keep an open mind. Others who have stayed here did not believe me.”

“I’ve been waiting for you to tell me why you got upset while we were out in the boat. Wait. Just how many others?”

“No one like you. Meaning, I haven’t been with anyone else. For years, I’ve tried to get someone to listen.”

“I’m all ears, Rainie.” Leaning back on his elbows and stretching out his legs, he gives her his undivided attention.

She sighs, her eyes begging for understanding.

Rainie’s Lake is on Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Rainies-Lake-ebook/dp/B006YG7KH0/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1326821218&sr=1-1

Smashwords http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/123476

All Romance http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-rainie039slake-672449-144.html

Xcite Books http://www.erotica-romance-ebooks.com/rainies-lake.html

Erotic Escapes Ebooks http://www.eroticescapesebooks.com/catalog/Rainies_Lake.html

Now more about how Steve and I started writing together:

Steve Tindle and Brenda Woody were high school friends in Georgia who reconnected, on a social network, after 30 years of leading separate lives. During their re-acquaintance, they found their past and interests were similar; they had written poems, songs, and both had the desire to be published. Their combined experiences and fantasies inspired their first erotic novel Best Lover in Town, published June 2010 by Charles River Press. The rights for BLT were reverted to Brenda and Steve July 2011. Best Lover in Town was reedited and released with a new cover.

Best Lover in Town, available via Amazon.

Brenda moved to Dallas in 2009 to be closer to Steve, start a new chapter of her life and work on future books. Their second book Temptation Triggers, an anthology of seven erotic short stories, published by Charles River Press, was released June 2011.

Temptation Triggers available via Amazon.

Triangle of Secrets, Book One, a ménage M/M/F story, was published October 2, 2011. TOS is the first in a series of ménage relationships.

Triangle of Secrets, available via Amazon.

Black & White Affair, submitted in a holiday contest 2010 and received 3^rd place, was expanded and is available as a short read.

Future projects include “Scarlett's Cowboy” and “Triangle of Secrets, Book Two and Three.”

As you can see we’ve been busy since we met up again. Our stories are penned with the perspective of both male and female point of view regarding sexual desires and pleasures. We both write the POV for male and female, and have been told by readers they can’t tell who wrote what. We complement each other is this area. This is why it’s awesome writing as a team. We’re both open-minded and not worried at all about asking each other questions. And fans have told us how we met again is the start of a romantic story and we should write a book. Who knows maybe we will. *both of us smiles*

Drawing

Louisa, thank you again for allowing us to visit! Readers, there’ll be a drawing. All you have to do is follow us on our blog http://brenda-steve.blogspot.com/ either with Google or Networks, then come back here and leave a comment with your name you followed under and your email address. That’s it! The lucky winner will receive a copy of our backlist (ebook format, please note Temptation Triggers is in PDF only). Leave a comment by Feb 3 11 PM PST. We’ll draw on Feb 4.

Our links:

Facebook Fan page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Authors-Brenda-Woody-Steve-Tindle/155085384532803

Blogger http://brenda-steve.blogspot.com/

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

Web site http://brendawoodyandstevetindle.webs.com/

Amazon Author page https://www.amazon.com/author/brendaandsteve

http://www.amazon.com/Brenda-Woody/e/B0058AQHHC/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1324856083&sr=1-1

Purchase sites:

All books on Amazon http://tinyurl.com/3da3vkb

Smashwords http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/brendaandsteve

All Romance

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/storeSearch.html?searchBy=author&qString=Brenda+Woody+and+Steve+Tindle

Xcite Books http://tinyurl.com/6hxzrjg

Erotic Escapes http://www.eroticescapesebooks.com/authors/woodytindle.php

I'm a Guest Fox ... Stormy Weather Ahead

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 07:25:00 +0000

After reading the "Hound" Jeff Salter's witty columns on a weekly basis, I was thrilled when he asked me to guest blog. My thematic task: Use of weather in fiction. From Mary Shelly's Frankenstein to Laura Kaye's North of Need, I'm talking atmospheric conditions to set the mood.

Chime in at FourFoxesOneHound

Exclusive Excerpt From Rhi Etzweiler's “Blacker Than Black”

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Prizes:

Individual: One randomly selected commenter at each stop will receive a signed cover card and magnet. Open to all, regardless of location (winner selected from all comments posted to blog at 11:59 p.m. EST).

Tour: Two winners to be selected at random from drawing of all comments on tour (entry ending Feb. 2, 11:59 p.m. EST – comments with date/time stamps after this time will not be counted). Restricted to mainland US and Canada only, for shipping purposes. First winner will receive an autographed tote bag and pen, signed cover flat, and large magnet. Second winner will receive a t-shirt (size XL), pen, signed cover flat, and small magnet.

If you haven’t read it yet, the previous excerpt is over here at Literary Nymphs.

Now, here's an exclusive excerpt from Rhi Etzweiler's Blacker Than Black.

Chapter Ten: Garthelle’s Entertainment

The evening swiftly descends into a blur of vampires hailing from every conceivable corner of the country and beyond. They’re Garthelle’s equals in most cases, by my estimation. His cordial addresses lack even a hint of deference. From his chosen post behind the couch across from us, I doubt his keen gaze misses a single detail. He smiles occasionally, with all the warmth of the dead of night on winter solstice. For him, the curving of his lips is a weapon, not an expression, and he uses it to lethal effect.

Mademoiselle Ferdinand, a lithe, willowy woman with short blue hair, is dressed in a startlingly conservative gown shrouding every inch of her body from chin to toe. The billowing pleats of black lace overlaying the pale blue satin, though, are embroidered with the most obscene contortions of the human body I’ve ever witnessed.

Monsieur Kent sports a garishly loud suit in the most visually offensive combination of bright colors imaginable. It’s difficult to look at him. His idea of laughter, to which he subjects us upon observing Jhez and I perched on the couch together, is equally galling to the senses.

The two sitting on the couch across from us, to whom Garthelle doesn’t fail to introduce us, are siblings. The Durrams are far from reserved, but soft-spoken, much as their host is. I don’t much care for the way their twin dark gazes regard us, though. Bad vibes.

And so the evening goes, for the most part. Ferdinand can’t resist reaching out and hovering a spread palm over my stomach, where the core of my energy simmers like a hub. She probes me with a swift, harsh penetration resembling needles on my skin. As she withdraws her hand, she offers Garthelle a simpering smile of anticipation. Her probe isn’t so swift to recede, however; at least, not without nibbling along the edges of me and snatching a tendril of energy.

Garthelle’s gaze hardens as he watches her.

She isn’t the only one who takes liberties. And I’m not the only one subjected to it.

Finally, the female vampire withdraws. Her reluctance is blatant, but her gaze lowered to the floor as she glides past Garthelle drains the offense from it. Until she brushes her shoulder against the side of his arm. Challenging, in a passive-aggressive fashion. Garthelle doesn’t step away; no doubt that would be viewed as a retreat, a sign of weakness, to another vampire. Instead he leans into the contact, catching her off guard, unbalancing her. Ferdinand stumbles, catches herself, sketches a shallow curtsy. Not daring to turn her back on Garthelle until he looks away, focusing his attention back on us.

I watch her spin away. She throws a glare over her shoulder at Garthelle before scampering off like a rabbit given respite by a hawk too full to do more than toy with a potential meal.

Vampire politicking at its finest, I guess. I doubt I’ll ever understand them. I may have welcomed Ferdinand, had she not been the first. If the mademoiselle made me uncomfortable, it was only because I didn’t have the next lyche to compare her to.

Skin as fair as porcelain, her features are about as expressive. There is nothing to read in her face, or her eyes, which are as black as her hair. The ivory folds of her loose, flowing gown billow against the side of my arm as she comes to a halt. Doesn’t touch or probe, though. Not this one. She just stares.

There is something both disturbing and familiar about her. I can’t say what it is, but my skin crawls, gut clenching, and my desire to hide, to escape her scrutiny, is almost overwhelming.

The strange vampire turns to study Garthelle briefly over her shoulder before focusing her attention back on me and Jhez. “Seems like such a waste, Leonard, given your Modere strictures.”

For a brief, tenuous moment, I wonder who she’s addressing—another vampire, or a human lurking out of sight nearby? But one look at Garthelle makes it obvious. At the sound of his name—not his surname, not his title; what else could “Leonard” be?—a startling transformation occurs.

It’s as though the sound of his name releases him from a spell. “The Monsieur of York” falls away, a too-large coat slipping from his shoulders. His features relax, the line of his shoulders and spine loosening. Each movement no longer measured and calculated as he steps closer. Is he embracing the freedom she offers, the comfort of stepping outside his role of ruler and host? Or is she forcing it, demanding? The blindness frustrates me.

“Soiphe, Madame. So glad you came.”

She holds her hand out, hovering in the space between them, amber-orange aura haloing down her forearm to extend a few inches beyond her fingers. The tendrils remind me of what I’ve seen Jhez do on occasion, except Soiphe’s aura is completely steady, still. Almost solid, ethereal become corporeal. Less an extension of aura as an extension of self.

Garthelle doesn’t hesitate to reach out, holding his hand beside hers, palms facing but not touching. Not physically, at least. His aura—colors shifting and shimmering, pearl and platinum, gold and daffodil and the hundred shades of yellow I saw in his eyes—tangles with hers along the fringes, melding together in that one spot.

To me he is Garthelle—vamp, john, unknown and potentially hostile entity. But here in this intimate moment, despite the slightly public venue amongst all these other vamps, he isn’t the Monsieur, the ruling vamp, or even an employer. He is simply a friend greeting a friend. So beautiful I want to cry, and at the same time it’s strange he’d let us witness this.

“Not all resources need be expended, Madame. Surely you would agree with that sentiment.” Garthelle stares down at us, then returns his focus to the Madame. Leonard. The shift, the transformation, fascinates me. Not just that he switches roles. It’s a glimpse of what he truly is. Not the masks he wears or the roles he plays. I can’t help but watch him, follow his sharp gaze as it flicks back and forth along the length of my reclined form, over my sister’s arm draped across my chest like a shield. “Some are more valuable as assets.”

Soiphe pins Garthelle with her dark gaze, and my breath catches in my throat as I watch her. Jhez flinches, a faint twitch that makes me conscious that I’m digging my nails into her forearm. I try to relax my grip, but the woman’s face in profile horrifies me.

That nose, the line of brow and jaw. It’s been many years since we saw our father last. Decades. But some memories never fade. I want to deny the blatant evidence. Coincidental similarities, nothing more.

“Do you see it?” I tilt my head back, desperately seeking the reassurance of my sister’s gaze.

She stares down at me, eyes wide, face pale. Sneaks another quick glance at the vampire. “How could I not?” Her voice mimics mine, barely above a whisper.

“I’m delighted you elected to attend this gathering.” Garthelle’s deep tenor slides along my frayed nerves like aloe on a burn. I watch his lips, the corners of his mouth, as he speaks with the stranger. This close, the edges of his aura tangle with mine. His awareness, his focus, diverting in my direction. It charges the mix of lust and fear in my blood. “For a while, I despaired of having your presence.”

Soiphe offers a faint, short-lived grin. “For a while there, I had no intentions of it. Things are rather unsettled of late.”

Just as Garthelle is about to respond, a rustle of fabric and sudden movement announce the arrival of a second strange vampire. A flawlessly attired woman flanks our employer, approaching from the left. Blindsiding him.

Her arrival sends tension through both Garthelle and Soiphe, and I wonder what causes the disturbance. Is it how she interrupts them, or who she is? She is Soiphe’s opposite, from the honey blonde hair to the willowy body clothed in a tailored pantsuit. Powerbroker straight off Wall Street. I imagine she fits in with the rest of the sharks rather well.

The tension originates from something more than Garthelle donning his role as Monsieur and host yet again. Though the transformation is immediate and thorough, like flipping a switch. One moment his aura tangles along the edge of mine, doing things I don’t want to think too closely about right now, while he frowns at Soiphe’s chosen turn of phrase. The next, his aura is as close as his skin, tight and still, quiescent, and the shutters have slammed down on any twitch of emotional communication.

“Madame Desmonde. How kind of you to join the festivities.” Garthelle turns only enough to keep her in his peripheral awareness as he greets her.

I see politics at play, subtle and nonverbal, flying between the three vampires. It’s not as though their auras are giving them away. Those, they hold tight and keep close. Like phobic men in a sauna, clutching their towels as a shield against exposure.

“Kind, Monsieur Garthelle? I think not, though that’s considerate of you.” Desmonde casts a pointed glance about the populated room. “I doubt anyone is here out of kindness.”

In the ensuing, stilted silence, Soiphe’s mouth twists down at the corners and her gaze drifts back in our direction. I keep my eyes focused studiously on Garthelle’s arms, folded across his chest, to avoid attracting her attention.

Deep breaths, Black. Nothing strange here. Nothing at all.

Soiphe stretches a long-fingered hand in our direction, aura relaxing to reach out and brush against the halo of our melded energy. Jhez’s hand on my stomach curls into a fist, scrunching my shirt. The material pulls uncomfortably over my ribs, and I stare at the ceiling to keep from squirming.

“Oh, Monsieur Garthelle. What a find; they’re absolutely beautiful.”

Soiphe sounds stoned. Or under the influence of something that would’ve been a controlled substance thirty years ago. If you want to score some narcotics, you can get uncut angel dust on any street corner for pocket change these days. An aspirin you won’t find, though. And Gaia forbid you go hunting for some antibiotics. Good luck with that.

Soiphe steps closer, fingers fluttering as her hand hovers a scant inch above Jhez’s clenched fist on my chest. Jhez flattens her hand, arm tense, as if trying to put as much space between them as possible. But she doesn’t pull away; her fingers splay out, and I wonder what she’s trying to shield me from.

It should be enough that her aura blends with mine, the ebb and flow of energy between us lessening the vampire’s pull as we share it. Should be.

Desmonde moves to sidle up beside Soiphe, all but shouldering the other vampire away. Her body language is stiff. Not in a tense way; more like an alley cat who’s caught another feline encroaching on its territory. She shoves her hand out next to Soiphe’s, knuckles white with the strain as she pulls on me. I grunt, stomach muscles cramping.

“Like trailing your fingertips through liquid silk.” The croon of Desmonde’s voice reminds me of stories about the sickly sweet sound of temptation: harpies singing sailors to their deaths. She should narrate audiobooks or something.

“Ladies.” Garthelle’s voice is firm; he slices through the tension with the decisiveness of a sushi chef.

Gaia, I’m hungry. I’m also more than just a little bit irritated at Monsieur Garthelle for insisting we do this. Given any sort of option, I would’ve declined as gracefully as possible. My body isn’t up to this—the rampant hunger is one of those subtle warning signs. That it feels like my stomach is trying to gnaw through my spinal cord, though, isn’t so subtle.

Too much more of this and I’m going to be beyond done for the evening.

“Give them some room to breathe, yes?” Without touching, he guides the two rivals away from our couch and draws them into conversation elsewhere.

Don’t forget to leave a comment with your email address to enter the drawings! Look for the next excerpt that picks up where this one leaves off, tomorrow on Riptide Ripples. Or, if you can’t wait, get your own copy of “Blacker Than Black” over here at Riptide.

For more info on Rhi’s writings:

Email address: RhiAnon.Etzweiler@gmail.com

Website

Blog

Twitter: @musefodder

Facebook Profile: here

Goodreads Profile: here

Amazon Author Page: here

Google+ Profile: here

Get “Dark Edge of Honor” here

The Top 5 Places to Get it On at Work with Louisa Masters

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:00:00 +0000

Not to confuse you, but today I'd like to introduce you to Louisa Masters! Louisa is giving away three $10 Amazon GCs to randomly drawn commenters during the tour and to the host with the most comments (excluding Louisa’s and the host’s).

Sex in the office has been called a cliché, but like all clichés it exists for a reason. It's hot. And many of us imagine it.

Ever wanted to grab a co-worker and sneak off for some nookie? Maybe even the boss? You've been trading heated glances, flirting back and forth, or maybe you're already dating. Quitting time is a long way away—too long. Surely a quickie wouldn't hurt... You might not have the nerve to do it—I know I didn’t—but there's nothing wrong with a heated daydream.
So, where would you go to get it on at work? I delved through my own fantasies, and then did some research, and the five that come up most frequently are:
The copy room. To be more precise, on top of the photocopier. After all, why risk discovery if you can't have a souvenir?
The boardroom. A place where the boss holds sway, where important meetings are conducted. Time to negotiate a merger of your own...
The boss' desk. Don't we all secretly want to sweep everything off the desk and lay ourselves on it? Plus, doing it on the boss' desk is the ultimate way to defy authority! Unless, of course, you're with your boss...which is a fantasy all by itself!
The stairwell. Find a shadowy corner, or if there's a considerable height difference between you and your partner, stand on different steps. One of the bonuses here is that an opening door will warn you if someone is coming.
Supply closet. It might be a bit tight, space-wise, but that can definitely work in your favor! Just be careful to clean up afterward—you don't want anyone asking who left the big mess (no pun intended).
One reason office sex is so arousing is the idea of being caught. A lot of people don't realize they have discovery fantasies, but the truth is, there's a tiny part of everyone that gets turned on, thinking about the people who might walk in at a crucial moment.

Inter-Office Relations by Louisa Masters

With her resignation submitted, Jeannie Price has one last task she’s itching to perform before leaving her job. After months of sitting next to hot, sexy colleague Tim Harding, it’s time to turn fantasy into reality with a scorching invitation to collaborate on matters of the flesh in Conference Room B. Then she can walk away without regrets.

Tim’s dreams of wild, sweaty sex with Jeannie come true when he accepts her offer, but he’s stunned to learn she doesn’t want to see him again after their steamy tryst. She may be trying to brush him off as just one more item on her To-Do List, but he’s determined to convince her there’s nothing taboo about inter-office relations.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Excerpt 1:

“Do you want to have sex in Conference Room B?”

Tim Harding jerked his head up from the cost analysis on his computer screen. Jeannie Price was leaning on the partition between their desks, her dark eyes fixed on his face. He took a moment to admire them as he pondered her words.

“Is this a hypothetical question?” he asked finally. “Because—”

“It’s not a hypothetical question. It’s an invitation.”

Her words slammed straight to his cock. Was she joking? Had she guessed that she was the star of his late-night fantasies? He’d even pictured taking her in the office—okay, he’d imagined the boardroom, but he was flexible.

He swallowed, hard, his cock twitching. She’d been very flexible when he imagined her on his balcony. And in his shower. And...

“I’ll tell you what,” she said. “I’m going to be working in Conference Room B for the next half hour. You think about it, and if you decide to join me...” She shrugged, and her long brown hair slid forward, drawing his eyes to her breasts. In his dreams, her hair flowed over her naked breasts, her nipples peeking through the locks, and when he drew her down over him, it would swing forward, surrounding them like a silken tent...

She straightened, gathered up her laptop and notepad, and handed him an inter-office envelope.

“This may help you make up your mind.”

He watched her walk away, the sway of her hips and the way her dress slid across her ass making him shift uncomfortably.

Excerpt 2:

This is ridiculous. I’m hiding in the bathroom like a teenage girl.

Jeannie stared in the mirror, disgusted with herself, but not enough to go back to her desk.

She had to talk to Tim.

She had to talk to Tim.

She didn’t want to. Well, no, she wanted to talk to him, but not about sex. She wanted to talk about movies and books, weekend activities, silly habits and annoying colleagues. Like they always did.

As far as sex went, she wanted to rip off his tie and use it to bind his hands together so she could strip him naked and ride him like a cowgirl. The very thought made her shudder with need.

Okay, let’s be logical. She had to talk to Tim because they’d had sex on Friday. Wild, steamy sex. Her eyes drifted closed and she clenched her thighs together, the hot-wet rasp of Tim’s tongue almost too much to bear...

Focus! Her eyes snapped open, and she turned on the tap to splash cool water on her flushed cheeks.
So. She and Tim had had sex. And now they had to talk because sex had morphed their relationship to one beyond that of colleagues and friends.

That was a problem, because she didn’t believe in office romances.

Why was that, again? She’d thought about this over and over during the weekend, but it was getting harder and harder to remember why she hated relationships between co-workers.

About Louisa

A born reader, Louisa discovered her love of romance at an early age and began sneaking her mother's romance novels by age twelve. A sucker for a happy ending, she was often disappointed by the lead up–not enough sexy stuff. Where was the anticipation, the flirting, the tension? Her solution? Write it herself.

Living in Melbourne, Australia, she is renowned for complaining about the weather and the calories associated with eating ice cream, but has learned to ignore both and enjoy life anyway. Visit Louisa at www.louisamasters.com

Make sure to follow the tour and comment; the more you comment, the better the chances of winning. Complete Tour Dates Can be Found: http://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2011/11/virtual-book-tour-inter-office.html

A Vampire's Aura & Were Vamps Romance Gives "Chains of SIlver" 5 Stars!

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:15:00 +0000

I’ve been saving one super-special topic related to The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf: Chains of Silver, and that’s the research on a vampire’s aura. The sentence weighs heavily with terms that unbelievers may not know how to interpret: Vampire, aura and research? How does one look into a vampire’s life energy and come out alive?

To read the guest post, and the 5-star review visit WereVamps Romance.

5 Jobs Along the Way to Publishing Erotic Romance

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:31:00 +0000

I started working early, barely past 16, primarily in order to buy my own clothes at Contempo Casuals. Thinking back upon all those positions that let me earn money while developing my craft makes me realize that it all led to writing erotic romance.

Here are a few highlights:

1) Philadelphia Cheesesteak Factory

My first job in high school was working fast food. A cheesesteak shop may seem hip and glamorous if I had lived in, say, Philadelphia. In cow-town California, it was an odd choice. But, we made some awesome waffle fries and I discovered that wearing contacts shielded my eyes from the cry-fest caused by cutting onions.

Oh, and making out in a backseat of a car can be a lot of fun.

2) Selling T-Shirts in a Tourist Trap

Sure, Laguna Beach looks all glamorous in reality TV shows, but how about handling a busload of tourists, with a broken cash register, a half-hour before closing? Oh, and would you mind walking $3,000 in cash down Main Street to the night-deposit dropbox? Side benefit: Helping hunky stars such as Ray Liotta and having him comment on how hot your dress was (yes, that was me).

Oh, and making out in stockrooms can be quite cushy.

3) Secret Lingerie Holiday Rush

There’s nothing like desperation to make men spend money. The closer it got to Christmas, they more they were willing to shell out for the perfect gift. I sold three $300 robes, and was not asked back to stay after the season finished. Top complaints: I looked for extra stock in the stockroom too much. Yes, they do have it in back. The managers just don’t want to open to room to get it. And, although I was told that there wasn’t a length requirement for the mandatory skirts, I was sent home for wearing a too-short mini. Trust Issues: Management spot-checked employee purses every time an employee left the store. As if I’m going to steal a pair of panties.

First Glimmer of BDSM: Overhearing a male customer and his teenage son commiserate that, “Let’s ask the girl (referring to me). If she doesn’t know, we’ll whip her.”

4) College Newspaper Staff

So this is where the “real” experience comes in. You gain firsthand knowledge in multiple subjects. Wild parties, drinking and experimentation – plenty of extracurricular activities in college.

Making out in darkrooms late at night = totally awesome.

5) Entry-Level Editor at Automotive Magazines

With a ratio of five women for about 100 men, the odds of hooking up continued to shine. Free bathing suits, along with a salary … and all-expenses paid trips to watch hot racecar drivers. Wait. Why did I ever leave that job? Oh, yeah: Never a female editor in the 25+ years of the company.

Mmmm – Greater appreciation for men. All types of men.

Bonus: Reporter Covering Rock & Roll

Oh, baby – that’s a whole ’nother blog. If only I had the confidence that I do now. Hanging backstage introduced me more to the beauty of bi-dom.

What have you learned on job along the way?

A wedding, an evil plan, a love story and a sacrifice are the order of the day in Lucy Felthouse's modern retelling of Snow White and the Huntsman

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:18:00 +0000

Susie White and the Right Hand Man

Susie White and her stepmother-to-be have never seen eye to eye, despite all of Susie’s best efforts to be friendly. Eager not to spoil her father’s happiness, Susie still agrees to be bridesmaid at their wedding. When the big day comes, she meets Louise’s right hand man, Scott. Susie had never believed in love at first sight until that moment. The pair hit it off, sharing a mutual dislike of Louise and her wicked ways. Their camaraderie quickly develops into something more, and they date in secret until it’s time for Susie to leave for University – and freedom. Unfortunately, Scott has an earth-shattering revelation, which means the two of them of them must work together to unravel Louise’s evil plan, before it’s too late.

More info and buy links: http://lucyfelthouse.co.uk/published-works/susie-white-and-the-right-hand-man/

*****
Excerpt:

I should have known my stepmother was up to something when she offered to help me move all my stuff to my University digs. It wasn’t like her to be civil, much less helpful, but I figured that she was happy I was moving hundreds of miles away, and therefore would do anything to make sure it happened as quickly as possible.

As my father’s only child, I’m the sole heir to White’s Bites, a massively profitable confectionary company based in Wiltshire, England. My stepmother had made no secret of the fact she resented that she wouldn’t get a stake in the business, should anything happen to my father. Of course, the reason for this was that my father knew the first thing the witch would do was put the business on the market to get her greedy little hands on the cash. I, on the other hand, loved White’s Bites and would continue to run it to the best of my ability.

We’d never seen eye to eye, my stepmother and I. However, it wasn’t the usual ‘child resents someone trying to replace their parent’ syndrome, it was her that resented me.

My mom had died of cancer when I was fifteen. My father and I were devastated, as you’d expect, but I’d always urged him to get on with his life. After all, it’s what mom would have wanted, and I certainly didn’t want my dad to be lonely when I got married and left home.

So, a couple of years later, when dad met Louise and they started dating, I was thrilled. He was happy, therefore so was I. Soon it became more serious and dad wanted me to meet her. I was excited, but nervous.

When the time came and Louise had walked into our house, I’d been in awe. Don’t get me wrong, my mom had been beautiful, but in a natural way, as if she didn’t realise, or care. But Louise clearly did. Her gorgeous hair was perfectly quaffed, and her attractive features were enhanced by expertly applied makeup. Her outfit looked like something from a fashion magazine. I managed to pull myself together before she saw me standing there, all slack-jawed and stupid-looking. Walking towards her, I’d held out a hand.

“Louise!” I’d said, beaming, “I’m so pleased to finally meet you. Dad’s told me so much about you.”

She’d smiled thinly and without any real emotion. “Charmed, I’m sure, Susan.” She’d shaken my hand gingerly, as though she was afraid she’d catch something. I’d half expected her to wipe her hand on her clothes afterwards.

“Oh please, call me Susie.” I’d said, ignoring her odd behaviour. I’d been eager to get on with the woman, knowing it would please my father. “Everyone does.”

Another tight-lipped smile. I’d tried hard to make conversation with her and make her feel comfortable in our home. But I never felt like I was succeeding. At first, I put it down to her being nervous or shy, but as weeks and months passed, I still never felt as though Louise warmed to me. I never bothered my father with my concerns. After all, as long as she liked him, what did it matter?

While Louise and my father were just dating, things weren’t too bad. They went to restaurants, the theatre, the cinema, and so on. I didn’t see her very often, and therefore didn’t have to put up with her frosty behaviour towards me.

Naturally, everything changed when dad told me he was going to ask Louise to marry him. He’d sat me down to break the news – fortunately – and I’d done my best to act delighted. Luckily, dad hadn’t noticed anything was amiss, and as he’d chatted about ceremonies, honeymoons and Louise moving in, a cold shiver had run up my back. This could not end well.

More info and buy links: http://lucyfelthouse.co.uk/published-works/susie-white-and-the-right-hand-man/http://lucyfelthouse.co.uk/published-works/susie-white-and-the-right-hand-man/

*****

Lucy is a graduate of the University of Derby, where she studied Creative Writing. During her first year, she was dared to write an erotic story - so she did. It went down a storm and she's never looked back. Lucy has had stories published by Cleis Press, Constable and Robinson, House of Erotica, Noble Romance, Ravenous Romance, Summerhouse Publishing, Sweetmeats Press and Xcite Books. She is also the editor of Uniform Behaviour and Seducing the Myth. Find out more at http://www.lucyfelthouse.co.uk. You can also find her on Facebook and Twitter. You can also subscribe to her newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/gMQb9

5 Types of Drunks (& What You Can Learn)

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 23:27:00 +0000

As a writer and journalist, I’ve become an observer of humanity. I eavesdrop on conversations, picking up tidbits here and there. On New Year’s Eve, I watched the people around me drinking. The closer it got to midnight, the drunker everyone became. Right before countdown time, I hit the bathrooms, and encountered what I’ve now classified as one of the 5 types of drunks: The Weeper.

A Rainbow cocktail from Pat O'Briens
in New Orleans. And, yes, I drank it!

Here’s the Breakdown:

1) The Weeper: When the level of alcohol reaches a certain point, the tears begin to fall. Often, you’ll find these specimens hanging out in restrooms, lamenting about all of the “good years” they’ve given some guy, without anything in return. The midnight maudlin I’d run into was crying about how at 22 her life was over, and she’d given her boyfriend the last good five years. I wanted to tell her that really … there’s plenty of time left for heartbreak ;-) But who’s to listen to an old woman like me?

2) The Sleeper: I’ve got no idea how writers such as Stephen King and Anne Rice supposedly wrote these fantastic books while being drunk. After a few glasses of wine, I’m ready to hit the sheets, and not in a good way (see #5 below).

3) The Yeller: Ever heard the term “mean drunk?” It’s not just a cliché, but a category. Some say that liquor lets out true personalities, and some I’d rather not know. Usually, it’s men that fall into this niche, and if you know that you tend to pick fights and smash walls while drinking then maybe it’s better to abstain.

4) The Life of the Party: Take a shy person, mix in a few Cosmos and what do you get? Sometimes, a personality peeps out. Vivacious and friendly, people often wish that this hidden persona would show up more often.

5) The Sexy Drinker: Probably the classification most written about in erotic romance. Certainly, I don’t condone drinking into one gets “stupid,” and doesn’t know what they’re doing. But, if some of those inhibitions fall by the wayside, and the situation leaves them open to experiencing something new or pursuing that dream-mate, then it’s all good.

So what have I missed? Is there a category that I’m forgetting about? Do you know someone that falls into one of these categories? Usually when I write a post about drinking, I get a lot of comments about how the reader is not a drinker at all … fess up: What type of drinker are you?

Andrea Speed’s Diary of the Damned #3

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

We're featuring something a little different today, but just as alluring. Check out these offerings by Andrea Speed and Riptide Publishing. See the end of the post for information on Speed's contest!

In hopes of eventually publishing a book about his experiences at the Quik-Mart, Josh has decided to start keeping a work diary of his times on the night shift. Here is one random page.

11:54 - Some new guy I’ve never met before, Jordan, is filling in for Julia. There’s something a little off about him, and I’m not just saying that ‘cause he smells like cream soda. Although that’s part of it.

12:35 - First creature of the night, a lizard man who seems to love every kind of corn chip made. They must have stomachs made of steel, and taste buds made of steel too. (I mean, have you ever had the “zesty ranch” flavor? If a chemical factory could barf, I bet it tastes just like that.) Got a “tip” of $4.97 - biggest to date! I will take back every bad thing I’ve ever said about Doritos if I keep getting tips like this.

1:28 - A first! I think a werewolf in human form came in. He was a really hairy guy, looked like a bum, smelled like a wet dog, and made a beeline to the flea collars. He asked me if one brand was the biggest flea collar available, and I told him it was in this store. He bought three, and while I was making change for him, he scratched behind his ear and I swear his foot started tapping. I managed not to laugh until he left.

1:43 - A series of loud noises brought me out into the alley behind the mart. I don’t like to go there at night ‘cause of the hell portal, but there was so much screaming I had to check it out. A family of raccoons had gotten into it with a werewolf over the Dumpsters, and the mom and dad raccoon were two of the biggest raccoons I’ve ever seen in my life. Like pit bull sized. I’m not sure they were raccoons, now that I think about it. Whatever they were, they really messed up that werewolf. For what it’s worth, I waved the silver broomstick around, feeling like a stupid douchebag, until they all scattered. The raccoon things gave me a look that seemed to suggest leaving was their idea. I hope I didn’t make an enemy.

2:27 - The yeti returned. This time he brought me half of a radial tire. Maybe he thinks that’s what humans like? I asked him about raccoon things, but I might as well have asked about the ending of Lost for all he understood me.

3:15 - Colin arrived. Asked him about raccoon things. He asked me to be more specific (!). He’s not sure, but he thought they might be vilkacis (?), which are apparently some kind of creature that can shift into a multitude of different animal shapes. Colin may be making this up, I can’t really tell. Vampires have great poker faces.

3:20 - 4:13 - Fooled around with Colin.

4:15 - A loud noise, like a big thud, on the roof made us both shriek like little girls. I made Colin go check it out (well, he’s the undead guy …) and he came back in holding what looked like some kind of fruit bat upside down by its leg. It was cursing up a storm at him. He explained it was a kludde (?) named Claude - I’m 87% certain he made that up - and it was trying to dismantle the parking lot security cameras so it could sell the scrap for cash. It’s addicted to baking soda, apparently. So I gave it a box of Arm & Hammer and told it next time it tried to tear apart store property, I was sending the yeti after it. It couldn’t fly off fast enough.

4:16 - 4:48 - Colin hung around because I was so freaked out by all my beast encounters tonight. But just to make me seem like a complete fool, the only thing that happened was two different lizard guys showed up to buy chips. But it was sweet he cared.

5:53 - Jorge shows up for the morning shift, a little freaked out himself. It seems he just barely missed hitting the biggest dog he’d ever seen in his life. He thought maybe it was a coyote or something, but he was pretty sure it was wearing a flea collar. I was just glad it wasn’t a raccoon thing. I ended up blaming the broken parking lot camera on a meth head. I think Mr. Kwon bought it, but he gave me the strangest look.

Blurb from Pretty Monsters:

Josh knew the night shift at the Quik-Mart would be full of freaks and geeks—and that was before the hell portal opened in the parking lot. Still, he likes to think he can roll with things. Sure, the zombies make a mess sometimes, but at least they never reach for anything more threatening than frozen burritos.

Besides, it’s not all lizard-monsters and the walking dead. There’s also the mysterious hottie with the sly red lips and a taste for sweets.

Josh has had the hots for Hot Guy since the moment he laid eyes on him, and it seems Hot Guy might be sweet on Josh too. Now if only Josh could figure out whether that’s a good thing, a bad thing, or something in between. After all, with a hell vortex just a stone’s throw away, Josh has learned to take nothing at face value—even if it’s a very, very pretty face.

This title is #1 of the Josh of the Damned series.

Read an excerpt and purchase Pretty Monsters

Blurb from Peek-A-Boo:

As night-shift clerk at the go-to Quik-Mart for monsters with the munchies, Josh Caplan believes he’s seen it all. Battling lizard men, werewolves chasing cars in the parking lot . . . nothing fazes Josh anymore.

Or so he thinks, at least, until a yeti with poor communication skills drops a dead skunk on the checkout counter. Josh can’t figure what a living, breathing shag carpet wants with him, or why it won’t leave him alone no matter how hard he ignores it. But hey, at least it seems harmless . . . if perhaps a little slow on the draw.

But Sasquatch is plenty fast when two of Josh’s human customers try to out-monster the monsters. Times are strange when creatures from the hell portal save the day, but in the protective hands of a lovesick yeti and a sexy vampire boyfriend, Josh realizes that maybe his new normal isn’t so bad after all.

Read an excerpt and purchase Peek-A-Boo

Email address: aspeed2@gmail.com

Website URL: http://andreaspeed.com/

Blog URL: http://andreaspeed.com/

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

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Andrea-Speed/161826617217710

Goodreads Page: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3020553.Andrea_Speed

Question for the grand prize:

What two things does the yeti try to give Josh? Simple, but you'll have to have read the story.

The Grand Prize – The Infected series ebook collection

Send the answer to the question to aspeed2@gmail.com

Put the name of the blog and Contest Answer in the subject line.

They can send as many entries as they'd like. Contest ends January 20.

"The New Year Got Me Thinking" with Meggan Connors

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

I know, I know, it's a dangerous prospect. You never know what might come out of my mouth—or my fingers (not in a weird, shooting fire kind of way, though that would be awesome)—when I get to thinking.

Generally, I don't do New Year's resolutions. I usually save that kind of stuff for the Fall. Again, weird, but we all have our quirks. But with the start of the New Year, everyone is posting on his resolutions social media sites. You know, lose 50 pounds, get in shape, get published, blah, blah, blah. They are all very well intentioned, and, sure enough, I've made those same resolutions before, too. But I never achieved them. After all, at this very moment, I am looking at an elliptical machine that is currently being used as a coat rack.

With that in mind, in the coming year, I will:

Endeavor to watch more bad TV on crazy conspiracy theories, aliens and bigfoot.
Watch The Biggest Loser and eat pie while doing it. And I will laugh in the face of all that exercise (looks painful, by the way).
Order pizza for dinner and not feel guilty about it.
Wear my pirate shirt with geek pride (it really is super cute).
Not feel guilty about the stack of laundry in the hamper or the dishes in the sink. They'll get done eventually (you know, when we run out of plates or no one has any clean underwear… well, hopefully before that, but I don't want to stretch myself. That's not what this list is about).

So there you have it: attainable resolutions! So tell me, what are yours?

Leave a comment for a chance to win an e-copy of my debut novel, The Marker.

I would love to hear from readers (or anyone else, to be honest). You can find me at www.megganconnors.com or on Facebook.

While you're at it, take a peek at the blurb from The Marker, out now on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and from Soul Mate Publishing.

The Marker

The Marker
Meggan Connors

When her father loses her in a poker game, Lexie Markland is sent to work in the household of Nicholas Wetherby for one year to pay off the debt. Innocent, but not naïve, she is savvy enough to know she must maintain her distance from this man, who frustrates her with his relentless teasing but whose kisses bring her to her knees. Because although she may be just another conquest to him, it’s not just her heart in jeopardy should she succumb to Nicholas’ considerable charms.

Since his brother's death almost a year before, nothing has held Nicholas’ attention for long—not women, not booze, not even an excellent hand at cards. Nothing, that is, until he meets the woman he won in a drunken night of poker. Intrigued by his prize and her chilly reserve, he makes it his mission to crack Lexie’s cool demeanor. But even as passion explodes between them, the question remains: will Nicholas be able to take the ultimate risk...and gamble on love?

Goddess Fish Release Party: Who'll Bring Home the Tarot Cards?

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 18:28:00 +0000

Taking part in the Goddess Fish Release Party today, and giving away a deck of Tarot cards. Picked some up recently for contests, so stay tuned for more opportunities.

To enter, visit my guest blog & excerpt from The Vampire & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Christmas.

“A First For Me!” with Kate Davies

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

I’m hosting a special guest today – Kate Davies, who is celebrating something new! Love helping toasting other authors!

Kate Davies
Take a Chance on Me

Take A Chance On Me, my sexy contemporary romance, came out in print on Tuesday. It’s my tenth book, and my fifth print title, but also my first. See, this is the first time one of my books has been published on its own rather than in a collection.

I’ve got two shorts in multi-author anthologies, and two single-author collections with connected books gathered into a single print title. But when my author copies showed up just before Christmas, I suddenly realized it was the first time I was holding a full-length, single title book with my name on it. Let me tell you, I got a little misty over it.

Every book is a cause for celebration to me, but there’s something just a little bit special about book ten being book one at the same time!

Take A Chance On Me

Accept no substitute…for love.

The Lady Doth Protest Too Much

Jessica Martin is determined to earn a permanent teaching position at Summit High School. That means hard work, dedication, and even volunteering extra time to direct the school’s Shakespeare play. Which leaves no room for romance—especially with a co-worker. She didn't factor in the school's sexy security officer and the delicious fantasies he inspires.

Too Much Of A Good Thing

Former cop Tom Cameron likes his job. Or he did, until the new substitute busted his orderly life right open. Now, he can’t seem to avoid her—deserted hallways, empty theaters, classrooms after dark—but he’s got too many skeletons in his closet to risk his heart again. Asking her out to distract her from the play’s, well, drama is a friendly gesture. Nothing more.

The Course Of True Love Never Did Run Smooth

Their chemistry could melt down the science lab, and before long they’re burning up the sheets off-campus. And uncovering raw emotions—a stark reminder that love isn’t in their curricula. When a troubled student goes over the edge, though, the need to stop a tragedy brings them right back where they started—face to face with fate.

Warning: This book contains sexy encounters in classrooms, inappropriate use of school facilities, backstage shenanigans, and illicit activities on a ferryboat.

Amazon
Samhain (best price!)
Barnes and Noble

Bonus: Any comment during the blog hop – on this blog, or any others I posted on this week – is automatically entered into a contest to win a free copy of Take A Chance On Me. The more you post, the more chances to win!

Who Brought Home the Kindle Fire?

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 17:28:00 +0000

Thanks for making the New Year Blog Hop so successful! There were a total of 4256 comments across all the blogs. My page had 62 comments. Organizer Carrie Ann Ryan pulled the grand prize winners, and they are:

#192 from Malia Mallory’s site – Lilaz won the Kindle Fire! She’s been contacted, and her new Kindle should be on its way soon.

#2436 from VK Syke’s site – June won the $80 Amazon GC. Already sent to her!

Now for the winners on my page. They are:

$10 Ravenous Certificate – Joanne (e.balinski(at)att(dot)net)

Backlist Book – Elizabeth (elizabeth @ bookattict . com)

Message will be sent out to both of them. FYI – I’ll be turning off the comments on the Hop page, so there’s no misunderstanding on entry dates.

Congratulations to all the winners!

Coming up, I’ll be taking part in a few other blog hops, including one for Valentine’s Day, and one that celebrates the luck of the Irish (St. Patrick’s Day). Meanwhile, please follow me on Twitter, or Facebook, and visit the guest writers, who often have individual contests.

Louisa Bacio’s Haunting New Year & BlogHop

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:43:00 +0000

Take one mistress of young adult paranormal fiction, Marley Gibson; her fiancé (now husband) Patrick Burns of TruTV’s Haunting Evidence and a recurring judge on Travel Channel’s Paranormal Challenge; a few psychics, mediums, believers and a sprinkling of skeptics, and toss them into a documented haunted lodge on New Year’s Eve. What do you get?

One kick-ass, memorable night!

End of the year, 2010, saw my family and I trekking from Southern California to Sierra Sky Ranch, located near the southern entrance of Yosemite. While growing up, my husband, his parents and his grandparents used to frequent the lodge. My mother-in-law first visited more than 60 years prior. When we saw the information on an overnight paranormal adventure, we quickly signed up.

While I write primarily erotic fiction, I’ve been told on more than one occasion that my writing can be quite dark. It’s that paranormal side, and fascination with the unknown. That evening, spirits spoke from the darkness, and an unseen entity squeezed between me and another woman sitting on the couch. You know the feeling when someone sits next to you and brushes your thigh with theirs? We both got it, as it “pushed” its way between us.

At the end of the night, we returned to our rooms and I stopped at the door. I thanked the spirits for their welcome, but let them know that they were not invited into my room. Since my mother-in-law was watching our sleeping children inside, I didn’t want any darkness coming with us. As I shut and locked the door, no one was outside in the hallway. The moment the door closed, a loud, resounding BANG hit the outside of the wood.

Someone or something was unhappy about being excluded.

How’s that for a haunting New Year’s memory?

Here’s the info on this Blog Hop Contest:

More than 60 authors and reviewers joined together – and pooled our monies. Grand prize is a Kindle Fire and another winner will take home an $80 Amazon gift card. Enter to win by leaving a comment on any of the blogs on the tour … the more stops you visit, the more times you can be entered. Plus, each individual stop is offering their own prizes!

Make sure to leave an email address so the winner(s) can be contacted!

On my blog, one winner will take home a $10 GC to Ravenous Romance, and another can choose a .pdf copy of an ebook!
----------------------
Here's a look at my holiday release!

The Vampire & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Christmas

Vampires and werewolves don’t mix … or do they?

Before there were three, there were two. When a vampire swoops in to save Trevor from a rogue gang’s blood sport, the werewolf must fight his own inhibitions. The magic of New Orleans and the holiday season bring together these two unlikely lovers.

Now, don't forget to leave a comment, email address and get hopping!

Going the Distance – Wrapping Up the Chains of Silver Tour

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 17:44:00 +0000

We’ve reached the end of the year, and just about the end of the Chains of Silver release tour. Events and guest blogs jam-pack this final week. Many of these stops offer contests, from copies from my backlist to gift certificates and more.

Here’s a Wrap-Up:

Cocktails & Books

After booking with Bewitching Book Tours, I’ve been fortunate to discover a great many new book-related blogs. Talking about my first experience with The Green Fairy, absinthe in New Orleans, and how it features in my first m/m novella The Vampire & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Christmas.

Guys Like Romance, Too!

Such a fantastic gay-friendly blog. It’s got a great, easy vibe. Dishing on "Vampires & Werewolves in the Easy? Why Not!?"

Stuff Your Stocking with Books Blogfest

On Friday, I’ll be guest posting on “A Naughty New Year’s Eve.” Whipped Cream Reviews is wrapping up their Stuff Your Stocking with Books Blogfest, and each post has contests.

Coming up! New Year’s Blog Hop!

On Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012, I’ll be taking part in a major Bog Hop with lots of good prizes! At last count, I think we have 65 authors and reviewers. We’ll be talking about our favorite New Year Memory!

What does that mean for you? Well we are giving away gift cards, books and other swag goodies throughout the day! Each author will choose their own winner - so that means more than 50 winners! And you can win on multiple pages!

And the best thing? We have TWO Grand prizes.

One being a Kindle Fire to a lucky winner!

Our second grand prize is a $80 Amazon GC!

So that’s the *basic* wrap-up for the end of the year. Today, I head out camping for the holiday weekend, but I will be checking in and saying hello.

Enjoy yours!

Louisa

INTERVIEW with Nancy Lennea, author of LOVE TO THE RESCUE

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +0000

We've got a special treat today. Author Nancy Lennea takes a few moments to give insight into her process and varied background, plus offers up a unique contest of a emergency kit!

Louisa asked me to answer a few questions about myself, and my latest release, LOVE TO THE RESCUE. Thank you for having me here today.

Louisa- It's a pleasure. First, let's talk about you a little. Do you have people in your life supporting you as a writer?

Nancy- Do you mean monetarily? (laughs) My husband continues to work ‘out in the real world’ so I can write fulltime. My family members are great supporters. My mother, a grammar and spelling whiz, is one of several people who edit all my books. So far, no one in the family is embarrassed that I write ‘romance’.

Nancy (right) transferring snowmobile
accident victim to helicopter.

Louisa- Give us a random fact or two about yourself, something that might surprise your readers.

Nancy- Are you sure you want to know? Well, I should keep a FEW secrets, but I am proud that I have volunteered to help others for many, many years. From hospital candy striper, to Girl Scout, to Cub Scout Leader, to EMT and firefighter, I feel that even though I have never been wealthy, moneywise, I give of my time. Time is a commodity valuable to those in need. In addition, it feels good!

Louisa- Do you have a writing mentor? Do you mentor anyone?

Nancy- My writing really took off after I moved to North Carolina (from New Hampshire) about 4 years ago and joined the local chapter of Romance Writers of America. I have never seen so many New York Times best sellers in one room! I listened and learned. Once published, I started to pay-it-forward. I am stepping down next month as Vice President of my local chapter, but I will fill my time elsewhere, helping another writing group.

Louisa- I totally understand about the supportive network of a local RWA chapter. I get that with OCC/RWA. What do you want your readers to feel when they read your books?

Nancy- I feel that a complex relationship, maybe a few secrets, an insurmountable, obstacle, and a few laughs makes for a good story. I believe I accomplished that in both DESTINY’S MOUNTAIN and the continuing mountain sage from Red Rose Publishing, LOVE TO THE RESCUE.

Louisa- Is there anything unusual about your writing habits?

Nancy- Yes. I cannot believe I can be creative surrounded by chaos! There are papers strew everywhere, binders, three computers, and a cat that knocks everything to the floor. Yes, I keep very busy. Once a book is ‘finished’, off it goes to people I trust to edit it. I want it polished until it shines. Once I send a completed manuscript off to an agent or editor, I start the next book. Currently, I have two completed manuscripts out, and am nearly finished with a novella I will self-publish, and I have a series already started. Keeping everything straight is a job and a half.

Louisa- Wow. That definitely sounds like a handful. With everything you have going, and the holidays, thanks for being here today.

Nancy- My pleasure! Now, back to writing.

BOOK BLURB

The clashing relationship between tomboy Josie Miller and fellow paramedic-firefighter, Pete Thayer, escalates after he realizes Joe is not just one-of-the-boys. Pete has a sketchy history and has earned a reputation for one-night stands in the small town of Parmenter, New Hampshire nestled between the Mercy River, the mountains, and the state college. Since he arrived a year ago, Josie suspects he is hiding something. Something too horrible to share, even with her. Working side by side, Joe loves her job, and Pete.

They respond to accident calls, medical emergencies, and fast-moving forest fires amid sparks of another kind. Joe’s clumsiness and baggy uniform work against her when she yearns to be the kind of woman Pete wants like the pretty blonde they must rescue after her car hits a moose.

Outside influences come to play when the sister of Pete’s alleged victim shows up and accuses him of something even worse…her sister’s recent death. Once on track to be a doctor, the sister’s betrayal and lies caused Pete to run far away and keep women at a distance unless they agreed to share his bed…and nothing more.

Pete plans to skip town while Josie worries she has given her heart to a monster. His boss and the local police back off and he professes his innocence to Joe. After kissing her senseless, she lets him into her bed until her bothers intervene. Both keep an eye on Pete. A suicide note, some well-landed fists, stolen moments of love, and a desire to listen to their hearts lead these two heroes toward a climax filled with tension, pain, bloodshed, and atonement.

EXCERPT

“Anything that woman has to say is full of spite and lies. I don’t want to hear a word!” he yelled. His entire body shook with anger. Fear, evident in her too–pale face, made him pause. Pete turned away from her scrutiny and paced. The camper’s size hampered his movements, adding to his growing agitation. He stopped in front of her, lifted her to her feet, and held her close. He had planned to shake some sense into her when he noticed her face flushed a pretty pink and her body trembled under his touch. From lust, not fright.

What the hell?

Her scent, intoxicating as fresh–cut flowers in spring, filled his nostrils and made his head spin with the sudden sweetness. The pale skin of her neck beckoned him, the pulse just beneath the surface beating fast and strong. Her lips parted in response to his gaze. With an urge so strong his knees weakened, he kissed the gentle slope below her chin then slid up and captured both lips.

The kiss deepened, spurred on by a force screaming at him to take everything. She tasted sweet and spicy, of sugar and bitter coffee. He sucked her tongue and groaned with the pleasure of her particular taste. This isn’t right.

Some mysterious voice screamed in his head, but he ignored the warning. His hands roamed to her back before sliding lower. Each fingertip tingled with intense pleasure. Lower, still, his hands cupped her strong buttocks. One hand slid up to nestle against the nape of her neck. Her body squirmed, moving in increasing velocity to connect with his stomach, thighs, and groin.

“Easy, sweetheart, or this will be over before it’s begun.” Locked in his embrace, she kissed him in response. Agony, like a punch to the gut, made him realize whom he kissed.

He responded as if slapped.

Breaking the kiss, he backed away and gulped air. Oppressive heat surrounded them. His sweat–soaked shirt clung to his back and his shorts had grown painfully tight. Tepid air weighed heavy in his parched lungs.

Joe sucked in air and stood transfixed. Her eyes widened.

Both fists lay against his sides, clenched as tightly as his jaw. “That should never have happened.”

“Are you mad at me?”

“I am not mad at you, Joe. Do your lovers kiss you to show their anger?”

“Unfair question. Are you upset I’m friends with Sherri Barrington?”

Speechless at her repeated referrals to the Barrington girl, he glared at her. Slow as molten steel, he forced his gaze to drift to her breasts. Her chest heaved up and down. A shy grin crinkled her mouth until the smile spread across her face. Bolstered by her reaction, he raised a hand to the silken nape of her neck and drew her into his arms once more. His own lips curved upwards when her skin pulsed under his brazen fingertips. He nuzzled her neck, inhaling her sweet fragrance.

“I love how you smell.” He caressed a breast and she moaned. Pushing off him, she broke contact and stepped back. His brow lowered, but he kept quiet.

“This is a mistake, but I might as well take a chance or forever kick my own butt for not finding out.”

“Take a chance on what?” he asked.

CONTACT INFO:

Author Web: http://www.nancylennea.com

Author Blog: http://www.nancylennea-inlove.blogspot.com

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/v12gxG

Twitter: @NLBadger

Email: nancy@nancylennea.com

Nancy also writes paranormal romance as Nancy Lee Badger.

Title: LOVE TO THE RESCUE
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: Full-length Novel
Release Date: August 2011
ISBN: 978-1-937044-02-2
Red Rose Publishing Buy Link: http://bit.ly/nfz4Ma
Amazon Link: http://amzn.to/pfC3CA

Nancy is giving away a FABULOUS prize to one lucky person! Win this handy-dandy ‘Emergency Kit’ complete with bandages, hand sanitizer, pencil, pen, stapler, highlighter, paperclips, push pins, and tape. The pouch zips shut and makes traveling a breeze! Leave your comment AND your e-mail address. Good luck!

Release Day! Celebrate with The Vampire and the Werewolf: A New Orleans Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Louisa Bacio) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 15:34:00 +0000

Vampires and werewolves don’t mix … or do they?

“In her first foray into the m/m genre, Ms. Bacio sets the pages ablaze in this sexy Christmas tale featuring two irresistible characters from her The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf series. There’s nothing better on a cold winter’s night than cozying up with the vampire and the werewolf as they come together in this sizzling story. This is my Christmas present to myself.”

Rebecca Leigh, author of Dirty Housewives

__________________________________________________
The Vampire & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Christmas

Readers asked, and I listened ... Come see how the magic sparked between Lawrence and Trevor, in this very special holiday novella! Available now via Ravenous Romance.