Seductive Musings

Guest Author & Giveaway: Amanda Usen featuring Scrumptious

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

I love food. I love romance. Is it any wonder that I'm drawn to romances featuring men who can cook? LOL. A man who is delicious AND can create bliss with food....very sexy. Could be me just not liking to cook, yet wanting to eat ;)

My guest today is debut author Amanda Usen who is not only lucky enough to be married to such a man, but she also gets to write heroes who are just as tempting. Like the one in her new book Scrumptious. Amanda is here to share not only her recipe for love, but also one of the recipes that her hero Joe makes in the book. Yum! Read and enjoy!

How a Chef Becomes an Author: a Recipe for Love

In all honesty, I was a writer before I became a chef. I majored in creative writing at Vanderbilt University with a concentration in poetry. I dated bad boys who broke my heart with distressing regularity – actually, it would be more precise to say I dashed my heart to bits on them – and I wrote soul-torching poetry and short stories about my love life. I had every intention of pursuing an MFA in poetry but instead of writing, I cooked, so I went to culinary school. There I met a hot-chef-in-training who promised to make me happy for the rest of my life. Thus far, he has succeeded, but in one sense finding a good man was bad for me. My perfect husband made me too cheerful to write agonizing poetry!

But a writer doesn’t stop writing, and I became enchanted by the idea of a story about a chef and a pastry chef falling in love. After all, they do say write what you know…

Apparently, I know bad boys, bad girls and food. I used my hot chef husband as a jumping off point for Joe Rafferty (the ice-blue eyes, the shoulders to-die-for) but then he took on a life of his own. Trust me, if my Western New York born and bred husband ever called me sugar, I’d roll on the floor laughing. Now Joe…I’d let him call me anything he wants.

I’ll also admit Marlene Bennet is the pastry chef I’d like to be with bigger boobs and better hair. Why the heck not? I was writing the story! Her desserts are my standbys – and most of them were featured on the menu at Bayona in New Orleans when I was Susan Spicer’s pastry chef. In fact, I’m pretty sure I have the chocolate cheesecake in Chapter Two to thank for my warm welcome into my husband’s family. As for the rest of the food in Scrumptious, I used recipes my husband and I make all the time. (Yes, even the pig. We roast a whole pig for the block party every year.) It was easier that way – less research!

In Scrumptious, Joe makes red curry twice – once for Marlene and once for a food critic visiting the restaurant. Chef Corey Griffith of Nashville, TN, introduced me to Thai food just before I went to culinary school. I’ve loved dumplings and Thai curry ever since. Here’s my recipe for red curry. I wouldn’t exactly call it authentic. However, it is easy to throw together on a weeknight, and even my kids will eat it!

I used this recipe in Scrumptious because it holds so many happy memories for me. Do you have any foods that bring you joy when you eat them, or even think about them? What are they?

TALL, DARK & DELICIOUS

Joe Rafferty is just as mouthwatering as the food he cooks. But if he thinks he's going to waltz in and take over her kitchen, he's denser than a thick slice of chocolate ripple cheesecake. Marly has invested too much of her life in Chameleon to hand off the restaurant to someone else—especially a cocky–as–all–get–out superstar chef. But there's no denying the man knows how to light her fire. Question is: Can she have the sizzle without feeling the burn?

Read an excerpt

Congratulations Amanda and thanks for being my guest today! Scrumptious was a lot of fun, and just reinforced my belief that my perfect man will a) no how to cook, & b) play the piano (has nothing to do with the book, just something that I love). You are one lucky woman ;) Amanda's next book Luscious featuring a character from Scrumptious will be out this summer.

If you'd like to learn more about Amanda Usen and the delicious books she writes you can find her at her website www.amandausen.com, her blog, Twitter, and Facebook. I'm gonna be checking out all of the recipes listed on her blog...especially the XXX Chocolate Chip Cookies :) I love a good chocolate chip cookie, but I might just be won over by her chocolate mousse. Decisions, decisions.

To celebrate the release of Amanda Usen's debut, Scrumptious, her publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca, would like to giveaway a print copy of the book to one Musings reader. Here's how you can enter to win...

Ways to earn entries:

Mandatory: Answer the question Amanda asked readers in her post & don't forget to leave her some comment love or a question! (good for 1 entry)
Mandatory: You MUST be a Google Friend Connect (GFC) follower in order to be eligible to win (unfortunately an email subscriber, or subscription in Google reader, and a follower are not the same thing so make sure you are signed up as a follower if you'd like to win this book)
If you have a blog, or even if you don't, you can earn extra entries by telling your friends. If they successfully enter to win and mention that you sent them you can each earn extra entries. You can blog about it with a link to this post, post it on Facebook, Twitter, email...or even word of mouth (good for 5 entries for the referrer and the commenter for each friend) . Please note that to earn the points they must mention your GFC name so that I can match you.
You can also earn extra entries by sharing the flipbook excerpt on Facebook, Twitter, your website or blog or other social media sites. You can earn 5 entries for each place that you share it and leave a link in the comments.
Purchase any item from the Seductive Musings Amazon store by using this link, or the Amazon widget contained within this post and email a copy of your purchase receipt to me no later than the deadline to enter (email available in sidebar). Sorry purchases made prior to this date do not apply, and link contained in this post must be used. No faxes or snail mail copies are allowed. No purchases are necessary to win. (good for 25 entries, or 50 entries if a purchase is made from the featured author's available titles)

How to enter:

You can choose to enter as many different ways that you want, but please place all of your entries in ONE comment

Rules and disclaimers:

This contest is open to US & Canadian addresses only
You must be at least 18 years or older, or of legal age in your country
The contest will end on January 30th at 11:59 pm EST and winner will be posted after they have been selected
Winner(s) will be selected using Random.org
The winner(s) will have THREE days from the date they are posted to provide a mailing address. If you do not contact me within three days a replacement winner will be selected. NO EXCEPTIONS
The book(s) will be mailed directly from the publisher or author and no substitutions are allowed
Winners will be subject to one copy per household, which means that if you win the same title in two or more contests, that you will only receive one copy of the title in the mail
Seductive Musings is not responsible for prizes that are not honored, distributed in a timely manner, lost, stolen, or damaged during transit
All giveaways are subject to change/cancellation without prior written notice

Good Luck!

*Seductive Musings is an Amazon affiliate and receives a very small referral fee for purchases made via the links on the blog and through the Seductive Musings Amazon Store. Read the full disclosure here.

Guest Author: Vivian Arend....Cowboys have Great Hands

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

I know I said today I would have my 2011 favorites list and overall recap...but it's not done yet. Instead, I have something infinitely better! Sneak peeks to not one, but two new romances featuring cowboy heroes...both of which are good with their hands. Definitely better than some boring recap, right?

Vivian Arend is here to save my hide, so to speak, and share a preview of her upcoming contemporary romance, Rocky Mountain Desire, as well as Emma Lang's new historical romance, Matthew. See, told you it was better ;) Read and enjoy!

My friend Beth Williamson (who also writes as Emma Lang) and I got to talking, and we realized both of our next releases feature a to-die-for hero by the name of Matthew. Both books are westerns, although hers is historic and mine is contemporary.

It was too good a chance to miss. So I’ve arranged a little “Ode to Matthew”—five lovely little tidbits proving these cowboys are very good at a lot of things! We hope you’ll enjoy taking a ride with our boys! (The full list of places to visit to read tidbits is listed at my blog.)

In this post we’re going for Cowboys Have Great Hands…

A man learns to hold what is his…

It is a vast spread in the eastern wilds of the newly independent Republic of Texas, the ranch their parents fought for … and died for. To the eight Graham siblings, no matter how much hard work or hard love it takes, life is unthinkable without family…

In the wake of his parents’ murder, Matthew Graham must take the reins at the Circle Eight. He also needs to find a wife in just thirty days, or risk losing it all. Plain but practical, Hannah Foley seems the perfect bride for him . . . until after the wedding night.

Their marriage may make all the sense in the world, but neither one anticipates the jealousies that will result, the treacherous danger they’re walking into, or the wildfire of attraction that will sweep over them, changing their lives forever.

Enjoy this special excerpt from Matthew...and his "magic" hands :)

“Roll over and pull up your nightdress, Hannah.”

It didn’t sound sexy, but it sure made her feel naughty as she managed to do what he asked. Her muscles were in sorry shape, but it was the idea his bare hands would be rubbing her that was foremost in her mind.

“My hands are a little rough.” He opened the tin and put some liniment on his hands.

“I don’t mind,” she confessed into the pillow. “I like your hands.”

He chuckled softly. “I’m glad to hear it. Now try to relax.”

Now that would be quite a challenge. She wanted to enjoy the experience, but her anxiety was warring with her need.

Matt touched her behind her knees, making circles as he worked his way up to her thighs. Although his fingers were strong, his touch wasn’t overly so. She closed her eyes and focused on how good it felt.

Her sore muscles slowly unknotted under his hands. Matt’s thumbs swiped her inner thighs, so close to her core that she clenched her muscles. A jolt of pain slammed up her body at the sudden movement.

He stopped, his hands still touching her. “Easy, Hannah. I’m not going to hurt you. I promise.”

“I know. I, um, I’m not used to people touching me there.” She sounded foolish to her own ears.

“I’m not people. I’m your husband.”

Hannah was glad he couldn’t see her blushing. “Please keep going.”

After a moment, he started again. She wanted to show him how much she trusted him, truly she did, so she spread her legs wider.

He made a funny noise and his hands momentarily stopped. “You, ah, surprise me.”

“I hope so,” she spoke into her pillow but she hoped he heard her.

His thumbs traveled upwards again, nearing her pulsing core, then slid past to her behind. He spread her cheeks with each circle, allowing cold air to land on her heated center. Cold. Hot. Cold. Hot.

When he kissed the nape of her neck, a moan popped out of her mouth. The massage had turned into something much more.

If you enjoyed that excerpt you should check out Emma's blog where she is gifting her readers with sneak peek previews every day until release day, as well as the chance to win a copy of the book

Nothing comes easy. You’ve gotta work for it.

Matt Coleman always figured at this point in his life, he’d be settled down with a family. Since his ex split for the big city, though, no way will he give anyone else the chance to drop-kick his heart. Physical pleasure? Hell, yeah, he’ll take—and give—with gusto, but nothing more.

Hope Meridan is working long hours to hold on to her new quilt shop, going it alone since her sister/business partner ran off. Sex? Right, like she’s got the time. Not that she doesn’t have the occasional dirty fantasy about Matt. Fat chance he’d dream of knocking boots with her—the younger sister of the woman who dumped him. Nope, she’ll just have to settle for the F-word.

Friends would be far easier if there wasn’t something combustible going on between them. And when casual interest starts to grow into something more, their tenuous bond strengthens in the heat of desire. But it may not survive the hurricane-force arrival of the last person either of them ever wanted to see again…

Warning: Small-town rivals, men in pursuit and family meddling—in good and bad ways. Look for a cowboy who knows how to rope, ride and rein in a hell of a lot more than eight seconds of sheer bliss.

How about a second helping of Matthew? Enjoy this snippet from Rocky Mountain Desire...

“Okay, I’ll help you. Just…relax.”

She nodded, eyes closed. That made it easier—not having to watch those expressive orbs as he peeled off her outer layers and got her down to her T-shirt and slacks. Goose bumps rose on her arms, and he was a bastard for noticing her nipples were rigid under the thin layers of her top. When he led her into the bathroom, she went without a complaint.

He turned on the taps for the tub and she nodded. “Oh yeah, that’s what I need. Perfect.”

That’s when the lights went out.

A million scenarios flashed through Matt’s brain where this would be a good thing. If he’d rescued some random damsel in distress from the side of the road who he’d taken back to a hotel and the power had gone off, they’d have to share body heat to survive. One thing would lead to another, and the heat they generated would be most enjoyable.

Hope. This is Hope.

“Matt? I’ve got candles.”

She bumped into him. He’d half-expected it though and managed to keep his balance. Logic and self-control were going to be the only way out of this mess with his sanity intact. “You need a hand?”

“Yeah, but just wait.” She snuck past him, clinging to his waist for a second. Something clattered to the floor then a drawer opened. She groped her way down his arm just before icy cold fingers pressed the hard surface of a lighter into his palm. A rosy glow filled the room as he followed her directions and lit the couple dozen tea lights arranged around the room.

“Convenient.”

“Pretty,” she corrected. “It’s a part of my relaxation therapy. Never thought I’d need them for this.”

Steam rose from the tub. “Thank God for gas hot-water heaters. I didn’t make it too hot though—you’re too cold. We can add hotter water once you’ve warmed up.”

Hope nodded. “Matt? You’re not thinking of leaving, are you?”

He was thinking things that were going to send him to hell. He undid the button on her jeans as quickly as possible, opening the zipper. Ignored her soft gasp as his cold knuckles bumped the heated skin of her bare belly. “I’m not leaving until I know you’re okay. Take off your pants and get in the tub.”

She obeyed clumsily. “You too, right?”

Bloody hell. “Yes, me too.”

Want more? Enjoy an extended (and yummy) excerpt here.

Thanks Vivian! I can't wait to read both of these books, 'cause you all know how much I have a soft spot for cowboys! They are second only to Highlanders (the kilt...it's the kilt, and the sword that tops the cowboys...though in spirit they are much the same).

Emma Lang's Brava historical romance, which begins the new Circle of Eight series, Matthew, comes out next week on January 31st. Thank heavens for small favors, because I don't know if I would be able to wait much longer :)

Vivian's third release in the Six Pack Ranch series, Rocky Mountain Desire, doesn't come out until March 13th...torture...the wait will be torture my friends. She's been teasing readers with Matt's story since Rocky Mountain Heat. Evil, she's evil :)

If you'd like to learn more about either author you can find Vivian at her website, blog, Twitter and Facebook, and you can find Emma at her website, blog, Twitter, Facebook & Goodreads. Congrats ladies!

Finally, I thought I would give you one last parting gift....one of my favorite Matthews :) Have a good one!

Monday's Muse: It's All in the Thighs...

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Usually the saying is it's all in the eyes, but last week Carol L commented on the cover model's thighs on the cover of Surrender by Pamela Clare, and I had to agree that they were completely noteworthy :) Great thighs on a man are underrated in my opinion. I like them to have some bulk to them...not like massively big, but I do like them to be bigger than mine, LOL...all muscle of course :)

So in honor of noteworthy thighs that you can sigh over, I give you this week's Muse. Carol, this one is for you my friend, I hope he lives up to your expectations!

This week at Seductive Musings:

Tuesday & Wednesday: I hope to post a few reviews. Lord knows I have ~~just a few~~ tons to choose from so I'm just gonna wing it and hope to make at least two happen.
Thursday: 2011 Favorites. I was going to post this last week, but it took a little bit longer to put together, and didn't have time to finish it last week, and I want to make sure I at least get it done in January...which means this week is it.
Friday: Contemporary Romance author Amanda Usen will be my guest to share her new novel Scrumptious with us. Yum! Cupcakes and a hot man on the cover, what more could you ask for :)
Tempting Trailer: This week's tempting trailer is for Kresley Cole's new Immortals After Dark book, Lothaire. I'm a bit behind on this series. Have you read this latest one? Should I put it on my TBR? I also have to admit, once an author goes hardcover...it's usually the kiss of death for me. Sheree, is this Paul Marron? If anyone knows, it'd be you :)

Finally, I'd like to congratulate all of the authors with new releases this week, especially Musings authors Sabrina Jeffries, & Mari Carr!

Guest Author & Giveaway: Mia Marlowe featuring Sins of the Highlander

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

One of the first romance authors I remember reading and collecting is Connie Mason. The book that I found her with was Pure Temptation with it's Muse worthy cover and shimmery lettering, yeah it was the cover that caught my eye (hey it was the 90's don't judge..even though I actually bought my own copy in 2007), but it was the story inside that had me seeking out her entire backlist.

I've been a devoted fan ever since. And when I found out one of my current new favorites, Mia Marlowe (who wrote one of my favorite historical romances last year, Touch of a Thief) would be teaming up with Connie Mason to write a historical romance...I couldn't wait to read it. Let me just say that I was not disappointed. In fact it exceeded my expectations, and I have pretty high expectations. It was everything that I love about romances set in the Scottish Highlands!

Co-Author Mia Marlowe is my guest today to share a bit about writing with another author and their first book together, Sins of the Highlander. Read and enjoy!

Collaborating with Connie Mason was pure pleasure, but I can see why some author pairings might not work. Here are some of the reasons ours did:

We both love adventurous, sensual romance. While there is plenty of witty banter, there’s also plenty of action in our stories. A fight scene or a desperate escape can reveal character as deeply as a love scene (though we made certain to include plenty of those, too!)
We have similar writing styles. From my first book, reviewers compared my work favorably with Connie’s. Readers will find Sins of the Highlander reads pretty seamlessly.
We respect each other. Well, of course, I’m in awe of Connie’s body of work. After a Kathleen Woodiwiss title, my mom—who’s still a diehard romance fan—put a Connie Mason book into my hands. I grew up reading her novels. But I’m thrilled to share that she loves my writing too.

We love so many scenes in Sins of the Highlander, but here’s a taste of one of our favorites. After abandoning Rob MacLaren to keep him from meeting her father and his men in battle, Elspeth Stewart has been found guilty of being a witch. In this scene, she’s being led to the stake.

       Elspeth never thought so many people could fit into Drummond’s stronghold. On the other side of the ropes, they stood ten deep, chest to back, all jostling for a better view of her in her thin chemise. Their angry shouts were a wall of sound. Her hands were bound before her, but even if they were free, she wouldn’t have been able to stop her ears against their roar.

     She tried not to look around, focusing instead on the long tassel dangling from the back of the priest’s surplice. It swung back and forth as he led the way before her bearing aloft a gilt cross.

     Cold lanced the bottoms of her bare feet and shot up her shins. It didn’t matter. She’d wish for cold soon enough.

     One foot in front of the other. That was all she had to do. The last task. She must walk across the bailey with her head held high.

     The first rotten bit of cabbage that struck her came as a surprise. These were the very people who would have owed her fealty if Rob hadn’t interrupted her wedding to Lachlan. Now all they offered her was scorn.

     Elspeth hoped to heaven her parents were being held someplace where they couldn’t see what was happening.

   Then suddenly the walk was ended. They reached the stake. Lachlan Drummond was there, waiting for her with a death’s head grin on his face. She looked away. Her hands were jerked over her head. A leather strap ran from her wrists through the iron loop at the top of the pole. Elspeth had the eerie sense of watching herself from outside her own body, a poor marionette whose strings were so tight her arms couldn’t be lowered.

     The crowd quieted to listen to the priest drone on about something. Elspeth heard only the pennants overhead snapping in the breeze and in a distant meadow, the mournful call of a rain crow. There’d be a fine soft rain this night, maybe a hint of snow and the world would wake with hoarfrost painting every tree and bush and blade. The winter-brown grass would crackle under her boots. She closed her eyes. She could hear it crunching beneath her imagined tread. Then those sounds faded and all she heard was the rush of her own blood, pounding in her ears.

     Torches were lit as the light faded. Several guards held them nearby, waiting for something. Someone lifted a little boy up and propped him on their shoulders. He was a beautiful child, with a mop of poorly cut hair and the brown eyes of a roe deer.

     Elspeth smiled at the boy. She and Rob might have had a dozen just like him.

     Oh, Rob. Oh, God! I want to live.

I hope you enjoyed that excerpt. If you’d like to see how the story begins, please pop over to my website to read the opener at www.miamarlowe.com . While you’re there, be sure to do a bit of exploring and take time to enter the contest on my website. The Grand Prize is a new Kindle!

I love connecting with readers, so if you’re on Facebook or Twitter, I invite you to find me there at http://facebook.com/MiaMarloweFanPage or http://twitter.com/Mia_Marlowe.

Abduction
Never had Elspeth Stewart imagined her wedding would be interrupted by a dark-haired stranger charging in on a black stallion, scooping her into his arms, and carrying her off across the wild Scottish highlands. Pressed against his hard chest and nestled between his trong thighs, she ought to have feared for her life. But her captor silenced all protests with a soul-searing kiss, giving Elspeth a glimpse of the pain behind his passion—a pain only she could ease.

Obsession
“Mad Rob” MacLaren thought stealing his rival’s bride-to-be was the prefect revenge. But Rob never reckoned that this beautiful, innocent lass would awaken the part of him he thought dead and buried with his wife. Against all reason, he longed to introduce the luscious Elspeth to the pleasures of the flesh, to make her his, and only his, forever.

With two clans against them burning for battle, they must find a way to join together—body, breath and soul. Or both will be made to pay for the Sins of the Highlander.

Read an excerpt

Congratulations to both Mia and Connie! And big thanks to Mia for being my guest today. Like I said before, I really loved Sins of the Highlander. In fact it's the best Highland Romance I've read in a long time. It had everything that I love about romances set in the Scottish Highlands...a stolen bride, men of honor wearing kilts, a touch of highland lore, superstitions, a witch or two, as well as a pack of vicious wolves...not to mention the love story...you can't ask for more than that my friends. I hope to post my full review of the book sometime this weekend, in the meantime I can say it's very much worth your time and money.

If you'd like to learn more about author Mia Marlowe you can find her at her website, blog, Facebook, and Twitter. And you can find author Connie Mason at her website.

To celebrate the release of Sins of the Highlander by Mia Marlowe and Connie Mason their publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca, would like to giveaway a print copy of the book to TWO very lucky Musings followers. Here's how you can enter to win...

Ways to earn entries:

Mandatory: Tell me what your favorite line or moment is from either the excerpt in this post or on Mia's site. And please leave Mia a comment or question regarding Sins of the Highlander (good for 1 entry)
Mandatory: You MUST be a Google Friend Connect (GFC) follower in order to be eligible to win (unfortunately an email subscriber, or subscription in Google reader, and a follower are not the same thing so make sure you are signed up as a follower if you'd like to win this book)
If you have a blog, or even if you don't, you can earn extra entries by telling your friends. If they successfully enter to win and mention that you sent them you can each earn extra entries. You can blog about it with a link to this post, post it on Facebook, Twitter, email...or even word of mouth (good for 5 entries for the referrer and the commenter for each friend) . Please note that to earn the points they must mention your GFC name so that I can match you.
Purchase any item from the Seductive Musings Amazon store by using this link, or the Amazon widget contained within this post and email a copy of your purchase receipt to me no later than the deadline to enter (email available in sidebar). Sorry purchases made prior to this date do not apply, and link contained in this post must be used. No faxes or snail mail copies are allowed. No purchases are necessary to win. (good for 25 entries, or 50 entries if a purchase is made from the featured author's available titles)

How to enter:

You can choose to enter as many different ways that you want, but please place all of your entries in ONE comment

Rules and disclaimers:

This contest is open to US & Canadian addresses only. No PO Boxes.
You must be at least 18 years or older, or of legal age in your country
The contest will end on January 23rd at 11:59 pm EST and winner will be posted after they have been selected
Winner(s) will be selected using Random.org
The winner(s) will have THREE days from the date they are posted to provide a mailing address. If you do not contact me within three days a replacement winner will be selected. NO EXCEPTIONS
The book(s) will be mailed directly from the publisher or author and no substitutions are allowed
Winners will be subject to one copy per household, which means that if you win the same title in two or more contests, that you will only receive one copy of the title in the mail
Seductive Musings is not responsible for prizes that are not honored, distributed in a timely manner, lost, stolen, or damaged during transit
All giveaways are subject to change/cancellation without prior written notice

Good Luck!

Romance @ Random Reader Rally Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 04:58:00 +0000

Want the chance to win lots of great prizes from many authors and other bloggers, including daily prizes as well as a Grand Prize from Romance at Random? Then check this out.

What am I giving away as part of the Reader Rally? Your choice of TWO of these romance titles (+ some swag):

Amazon.com Widgets

Flawless by Carrie Lofty (historical romance)
Compromised by Kate Noble (historical romance)
Confessions of an Improper Bride by Jennifer Haymore (historical romance)
Highland Master by Amanda Scott (historical romance)
The Irish Warrior by Kris Kennedy (historical romance)
My Dangerous Duke by Gaelen Foley (historical romance)
Defiant by Kris Kennedy (historical romance)
Enemy Mine by Karin Harlow (paranormal romance) (I think I may have Enemy Lover stashed away somewhere too)
Night Falls on the Wicked by Sharie Kohler (paranormal romance)
Bound by Moonlight by Nancy Gideon (paranormal romance)
This Side of the Grave by Jeaniene Frost (paranormal romance)
Demon Marked by Meljean Brook (paranormal romance)
Blood of the Wicked by Karina Cooper (paranormal romance)
Shadowman by Erin Kellison (paranormal romance)
Snapped by Laura Griffin (romantic suspense)
Deadly Little Lies by Jeanne Adams (romantic suspense)
Heartstrings and Diamond Rings by Jane Graves (contemporary romance) ( I might also have Black Ties & Lullabies laying around somewhere too)
Hush by Cherry Adair (romantic suspense)
I Love This Bar by Carolyn Brown (contemporary romance)

Here's how you can enter to win:

Mandatory: Leave a comment telling me what your most anticipated reads of 2012 are (good for 1 entry)
Mandatory: You MUST be a Google Friend Connect (GFC) follower in order to be eligible to win (unfortunately an email subscriber, or subscription in Google reader, and a follower are not the same thing so make sure you are signed up as a follower if you'd like to win this prize)

How to enter:

You can choose to enter as many different ways that you want, but please place all of your entries in ONE comment

Rules and disclaimers:

This contest is open to US addresses only (sorry!)
You must be at least 18 years or older, or of legal age in your country
The contest will end on January 31st at 11:59 pm EST and winner will be posted after they have been selected
Winner(s) will be selected using Random.org
The winner(s) will have THREE days from the date they are posted to provide a mailing address. If you do not contact me within three days a replacement winner will be selected. NO EXCEPTIONS
The book(s) will be mailed directly from the publisher or author and no substitutions are allowed
Winners will be subject to one copy per household, which means that if you win the same title in two or more contests, that you will only receive one copy of the title in the mail
Seductive Musings is not responsible for prizes that are not honored, distributed in a timely manner, lost, stolen, or damaged during transit
All giveaways are subject to change/cancellation without prior written notice

Good Luck!

Review: Stripped by Tori St. Claire

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 19:13:00 +0000

Title: Stripped*
Author: Tori St. Claire
Genre: Erotic Romantic Suspense
Publisher: Berkley Trade
Format: E Book, Trade Paperback
Date/Year: January 2012
Reviewed by: DD

*This book was provided to the reviewer by the publisher in exchange for an honest review

Summary from the publisher:

Body of secrets…

As a member of the CIA’s elite, Black Opals, Natalya Trubachev must live a lie, working undercover as the lover of Dmitri, a Russian mob boss. His business is trafficking vulnerable Las Vegas strippers overseas for twisted sex games. Natalya’s business is to blow the ring wide open and bring down Dmitri and his American contacts. But the stakes are raised when she learns that the next target is her own sister Kate, a dancer in the famed club Fantasia. Only now does Natalya realize how personal her mission has become, and how far she’s willing to go to complete it.

Body of lies…

The manager of Fantasia is Brandon Moretti, an undercover detective who keeps a close eye on his girls, and an even closer one on his sinfully sensual hire. For Natalya, working the club could be the break she’s been waiting for. But for Moretti, Natalya is a possible link to a killer. Only he never counted on her being so lethally seductive or so dangerous to get close to. As every forbidden pleasure between them is stripped away, his own secrets threaten their security, but it’s Natalya’s that could destroy them both.

My Musings:

If I'm not mistaken, this is Tori St. Claire's first novel. I am super duper duper impressed. Reading through the first couple chapters, I am reminded of one of my very favorite suspense authors, Shannon McKenna. There is great sex, a creepy villain and a deep seated mystery. That is a huge compliment if I say so myself. There is an immediate feeling of "better than your everyday romance”, and when you dig in you know St Claire is articulate, creative, and seemingly accomplished far beyond her experience.

Natalya Trubachev is a toned lethal CIA kick ass machine who is an expert at compartmentalizing her feelings in order to accomplish her job and protect the people, especially women, of the United States and abroad who may become victims of the sex trade. She has a deep love of children and family but has been a block of ice for so long that she barely recognizes the melting of her soul when her Russian lover Dmitri decides the next victim will be her estranged sister, Katarena.

Natalya is an expert undercover operative. She goes through the motions and acts better than Meryl Streep through her disgusting relationship with the Mob boss who is responsible for several killings and trading of females overseas using critical and sometimes lethal doses of barbiturates. Natalya brings these women under her wing while they mistakenly think she is on their side, and she sacrifices them to the wolves for her Russian counterparts to play with at their whim. Her guilt is suffocating and though she knows it is for a greater good, she has an increasingly hard time living with herself. Natalya is about to meet Brandon Moretti, and finally realize in her soul what true happiness is after being long overdue.

Brandon Moretti is a product of Witness protection gone wrong, trying to right the wrongs in his life by becoming a public servant-undercover of course. Posing as the manager of the famous Gentleman's club Fantasia in Vegas, he is at the very center of the action, trying to pinpoint whom in the circle of his life is responsible for the killing and drugging of young blonde and beautiful exotic dancers. He has lost so many in his life, family, and most recently, a close friend and coworkers. One of his best dancers, Kate, recommends a seasoned entertainer-her fraternal twin sister Natalya. No one knows the relation and are blind to it, with the exception of a few of the inner circle. Brandon has no idea. All he knows is that he has an immediate and violent reaction to her. His need to possess Natalya is so strong upon first glance that while he realizes her performing will be a huge draw, possibly the best bait he has had access to so far, he cannot stomach her on stage for others to devour. He immediately casts her as house mother. Their relationship is heated and strained from minute one and they both struggle with their secrets while unaware they are both striving for a common goal. Their stories and fabric of their lives and families are woven together in a quilt of coincidence and circumstance, bonding them in love before they even realize it.

This book was excellent for many reasons. First off, not only was it highly, highly erotic and sensual, but it was a great textbook suspense. My heartstrings were pulled many times. I felt so sad for Natalya and who she had become. I wanted Brandon to realize that he was worthy of love and that the things that happened in his past to shape him were not his fault. I know I have said this about other novels and in other reviews, but these are the essential elements of a romance that pull you in and make you want happiness for the characters. The bad guy in all this is of course a twisted sick freak which we all love in a mystery/suspense novel. What I enjoyed, or loathed, whichever you prefer is that to a kindhearted reader, he was particularly disturbing and cruel not only with his physical manifestations and dire warnings, but his emotional and psychological warfare. This guy was really off. It's great.

If I had to criticize at all, it would be that the "red herring" meant to throw us off from the real goon wasn't that convincing. I knew who the villain was relatively early, which was a little disappointing but it didn't lessen the enjoyment of the novel for me. Also, I felt, as I mentioned earlier, a lot of coincidences occurred. It was necessary to tie and bond the characters together, but I felt it needed just slightly more backstory to make it plausible. But this was a great book, and I urge anyone who is a fan of Roxanne St Claire (relation?), Shannon McKenna and others in that class of Grande Dames to give this one a try. You will not be disappointed.

Ratings:

Overall: 4.75 Stars (Excellent book. Some issues, but nothing that she can't nip in the bud with the next one.)

Sensuality: 4.95 (Way erotic in my opinion. Nothing kinky, but just freaking awesomely hot.)

For a complete understanding and definition of the ratings at Seductive Musings, click here

Other Reviews:

Smexy Books (B)
Dear Author (B-)
Reading Between the Wines (4.5 wine glasses)

Winners: Alexandra Hawkins, Vivian Arend & Jodie Becker/Sidney Bristol

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 02:20:00 +0000

I have just a few winners to annouce :) I also need to let you know that if you've been a recent winner on the blog and haven't received your book/item yet it's probably because I am also behind in sending all of that info in to the different publishers and authors. It is my goal this week to get all of that taken care of. So don't worry yet, your prize should be on it's way soon!

To celebrate Head Games, Cassandra is giving away a set of signed Romance Trading Cards to Musings follower...

Tamsyn

(your info has already been sent on to the promotions dept so you don't need to send me any info)

To celebrate the release of Crash Into You, Roni Loren is giving away a set of signed "Crash" Romance Trading Cards to Musings follower...

Deniz Bevan

(your info has already been sent on to the promotions dept so you don't need to send me any info)

To celebrate the release of the fourth book in the Lord of Vice series, Sunrise with a Notorious Lord, Alexandra Hawkins is giving away a print copy of her book to Musings follower...

June M.

To celebrate the release of the new and improved version of Rocky Mountain Haven, Vivian would like to giveaway a digital ARC of Rocky Mountain Desire (Book #3 in the Six Pack Ranch series 3/13/2012) to lucky Musings follower...

(woo hoo for extra entries!)

To celebrate the release of both of their Ellora's Cave erotic romances, Jodie Becker & Sidney Bristol would like to giveaway a digital e-book copy of either Dirty Beautiful or Flirting with Rescue to lucky Musings follower...

scottsgal

Congratulations! As always, you can click on any of the links or the book covers found on this blog to purchase the books you are dying to read...even if you didn't win them. If you didn't win one of these, don't lose heart because I'll have some new ones for you soon!

If however, you've been lucky enough to have already won these book(s) in another giveaway please let me know so that alternate winner(s) can be selected. The winners will have until Friday January 20th to contact me with your mailing address, otherwise alternate winner(s) will be selected.

For new followers to Seductive Musings please take note I do NOT email you that you have won. The blog post serves as the announcement and it is your responsibility to contact me with your mailing address. You can send your mailing address to me by using the Contact link in the menu bar at the top of the blog then filling out the form.

Monday's Muse

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

As you know I've been mostly absent from the blog for the first few weeks of the new year. It was completely unplanned, trust me when I say that I wanted to be here...I was just feeling too badly to even sit at the computer any longer than it took me to check my email every couple of days. While I'm still not completely well, I have hopes that by the end of this week, and about 23 days on antibiotics, that I can finally kick this thing. Finally. I've been sick since Christmas and I'm beyond sick of being sick!

The only good thing to come out of my inadvertent sick bed was that I was able to read a few really really good books. I had been wanting to read Surrender by Pamela Clare ever since I fell in love with her I-Team series last year, but knew they were being reissued with new material so I waited....and WOWZA! I think the hero, Iain MacKinnon has to be one of my all time favorite heroes and ranks right up there with Jamie Fraser from the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. I won't have time to write an official review of the book, but I would give it 5.0 stars. I though it was perfect in every way! If you haven't read it I think you will love love love it. I did.

I fell massively in love with this book! I actually even dragged my miserable self to Barnes and Noble to track down a paper copy of the second book in the series Untamed because it was a need that could not be tamed :) And for some reason I had to have the book in paperback. I tend to be that way with books that I buy that I plan to add to my keeper library. With technology always changing...the books that I love and want to keep I buy in paperback. That way no matter what format, or what happens in the future I will always be able to read it. I have no problem buying a digital book that I know I will only read one time...almost like it's disposable so it's not a big deal if some day it becomes obsolete. Am I the only one with this weird quirk?

Again, I won't have time to write a review for Untamed because I am so far behind on official commitments, but this was a solid 4.25 stars. If I hadn't read it right after Surrender I might have loved it more, but I was thoroughly enamored with Iain at this point, so Morgan kind of paled in comparison...not that his story wasn't great, because it was...it just wasn't Iain and Annie.

Anyways, since I have some serious mad looooove for Pamela Clare and the MacKinnon's I've chosen the cover model used for both the new and improved versions of Surrender and Untamed as this year's first Muse (photo from Pamela Clare's blog). Anyone know his name? 'Cause, yeah....just holy cow yeah :) Could be just me projecting my Iain love on him, but yeah...he's pretty yummy.

This week at Seductive Musings:

Tuesday: I will have some winners from past giveaways to announce and maybe a review too (cause I'm even farther behind than before...so it's scary now)
Wednesday: I hope to have one, maybe two reviews to post
Thursday: I hope to post my 2011 Year End recap that is sadly overdue. I meant to post this the first week of the year, but then the plague hit so....yeah it's late too.
Friday: Author Mia Marlowe will be my guest to share with us her new historical romance written with Connie Mason, Sins of the Highlander. This is one of the books I read while sick and it was everything that I love about Highland romances. If possible I will try and post my review of the book on this day as well.
Tempting Trailer: This week's Tempting Trailer is for the second book in Charlotte Featherstone's The Brethren Guardian series, Pride and Passion that was released in December. It's one of the books I have to read. I enjoyed the first one, so I have high hopes for this one too.

Finally, I'd like to congratulate all of the authors will new releases this week. Congrats, Ladies!

Guest Authors & Giveaway: Jodie Becker & Sidney Bristol

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

What better way to kick off the weekend, but with a twofer? As in, two yummy heroes; two seductive stories :)

Ellora's Cave authors Jodie Becker and Sidney Bristol are my guests today to share a bit about what they like in erotic romance and their new releases Dirty Beautiful and Flirting with Rescue. Read and enjoy!

Seduction, the scenic tour

JODIE: Do you remember when erotic romance when it first came out was just about the sex? By page forty (in a novel) you were pretty much guaranteed that the hero and heroine were going to be at it on the bed, in the car and wherever they could because they were INSATIABLE. Sure that was fun to read, but after a while it just didn’t have the same pull. Nowadays in erotic romance it is more so the wooing that is just as important. The SEDUCTION. It sounds pretty easy, but ya know, I think and artful seduction is just as important as the final culmination in the bedroom. The way a man kisses a woman, or strokes her body or even talks to her. What is your take on it all Sid?

SIDNEY: Um, when erotic romance first came out I was probably way too young to read it. I'm the baby, remember? While there's nothing wrong with a good sex romping book, there's something about that wooing, the foreplay, the seduction of the heroine and reader that's my favorite. What really gets me in a seduction bit is when the hero or heroine really pays attention to their partner and does something remarkable. For instance, in Monica Burn's book Pleasure Me, the hero is ashamed of a physical deformity. The heroine realizes that something bothers him, so she allows him to blindfold her. It's not really BDSM as you might think, and it was a small part of the seduction, but the significance it played in making both of them comfortable together and able to connect really won me over. I guess I like thoughtful lovers. What about you Jodie?

JODIE: Dude, you won me on deformity. *notes to get Pleasure Me*. Huh? Oh yeah, we were talking about seduction. I do like the guy that isn't all about his penis. I like the guy who works the girl up with his hands, mouth, and even before he hits the bedroom, with his words. I am not big on the dirty talk in the bedroom. Some people are, but I'm not, it takes me out of the story. I can just imagine the heroine getting into it and the hero saying "You like my cock deep inside you, oh yeah baby." It feels kind of self-gratifying to me. I like it if they say something it's more emotion based. Plus, if you're doing the job right, then who has time to think of something sexy to say? That being said, some people really like it in the moment, on the sheets while trying to multitask, but me... meh, not so much. What about you Sid? Dirty talkers or no?

SIDNEY: You know, as much as I like to talk and simply can't shut up, dirty or sexy talking does nothing for me. Typically when I do first drafts, there's no talking during sex. None. When I revise I make sure to add some or else it's going to be two mute people. What I love is a goofy romance. Let's be honest, not everything about sex is nice and neat, sometimes it's downright funny, and I love when the seduction can also be funny. There's something about a man confident enough to laugh while romancing that's just too hot for words. What do you prefer, Jodie? A more focused seduction, or room for some giggles?

JODIE: Hmm, toughy. If I had to pick, I'd go for a focused seduction. I like the intensity of the moment that makes me just hold my breath. But I also like when it fails and they laugh about it. Oh, oh and I don't get the tickling? I find that sometimes that is used by rote. Like it's thrown in there to kinda break the ice or to create a mood. 'She doesn't want to do it? Tickle her!' I'm not sure if it's just me, but tickling really doesn't do it for me. I don't mind the whole 'didn't mean to tickle you, but found a soft spot' moment, but out right tickling hasn't ever turned me on, so I can't relate. LOL

SIDNEY: I hate tickling. I get that it's a personal thing, but tickling doesn't equate a moment of levity. I guess what we're getting at is that we like variety in romance. Sure, one hero might be a focused, thoughtful lover, but being able to spice that up really amps it to the next level. Seduction isn't all about, Step One: kiss, Step Two: fondle the gentiles. It's more than that! Seduction is a connection between two people, having sparks and taking it where it goes. Sure, within fiction there will be more going on and pulling the reader plays a big part in it.

So, I think Jodie and I want to share a little something something with you for your reading pleasure. Jodie? You want to go first?

JODIE: Okay, this is when Dylan and Erica first kiss in DIRTY BEAUITFUL.

Dylan stepped even closer, his breath against her ear. “If you don’t tell me to back off, I think I might kiss you.”

“Why?” she asked breathlessly.

He licked the lobe of her ear. “Because I wanna know if you taste like peaches.”

She turned into him, his kiss feather light. He captured her bottom lip gently within the warm cusp of his mouth. He suckled, then slid his moist tongue over the soft, plump flesh, adding a small flick at the end of each stroke, so reminiscent of how a man would make love to a woman’s core that it sent a quiver deep within her womb.

Erica gasped as he made a slow passage across her jaw. His fingers massaged the back of her neck and sent pulses of need down her spine. Her eyelids fluttered as he trailed hot, moist open-mouthed kisses down the column of her neck toward her collarbone. She tilted her head back in invitation and felt his lips drag back up to her ear, the blistering erotic sensation punctuated by the hot exhale of his breath.

“I was right. Peaches.”

Sidney: FLIRTING WITH RESCUE

“Are you blushing, bonita?” His grin said he knew she was.

“Shut up.” She couldn’t help but laugh. It was either laugh or scream in frustration.

“Is the state of my cock funny to you?” He teased her pussy, bumping her just enough to feel him.

“No,” she choked, trying not to laugh and failing.

“I think you should make it better.”

His voice had gone all low and growly, sending shivers skating up and down Cody’s spine.

“What? Kiss it and make it better?”

They both froze as soon as the words left her lips. Cody clamped a hand over her mouth as blood rushed in her ears. Scott looked surprised and predatory. Her breasts were back in her bra, but his hands were splayed over her ribs and sides.

“I wouldn’t say no, but I won’t hold you to it,” he said, graciously giving her an out.

Disillusioned by love, Erica has tasted the bitter pill of betrayal and wonders if she’s enough for one man. When a hot guy moves in next door, Erica decides to settle for good old-fashioned lust. What starts out as a simple seduction quickly evolves, and Erica is fast finding out Dylan is dangerous not only to her libido, but her heart as well.

Recently retired from the adult-film industry, Dylan hopes for a fresh start in Templeton where his porn persona, Drake Van Wulf, is unknown. His new neighbor is unlike the women he’s accustomed to, but she stirs his blood nonetheless. His rule not to get involved is quickly tested by Erica and her lush curves. Unable to withstand her allure, Dylan finds himself wanting more from Erica than just her body. He wants her heart also.

With the secret of his past hanging in the shadows, Dylan’s about to find out if love truly conquers all.

Read an excerpt

Sparks—and clothes—fly when hot veterinarian Cody-Lynn Parker shows up at Scott Carillo’s animal shelter. Scott’s had a bad run with women, but he can’t keep his hands off Cody’s luscious curves.

Cody’s trying to be professional, but she can barely concentrate on work thanks to her craving for the tall, dark and sexy Cuban. She kisses caution goodbye and Scott hello when his shirt comes off.

Between naked star-gazing and naughty massages, their steamy fling turns into an affair of the heart. But when thieves target Cody, she finds herself flirting with danger, and Scott wants to rescue her whether she thinks she needs it or not.

Read an excerpt

Thank you Jodie & Sidney for being my guests today! And HOLY COW, that kiss from the Dirty Beautiful excerpt was definitely seductive....and hot! I can also tell that Sidney's book is going to be flirty sexy fun. Jodie's book Dirty Beautiful is out now, and Sidney's book Flirting with Rescue will be released on January 18th. Congrats ladies!

If you'd like to learn more about author Jodie Becker you can find her at her website www.jodiebecker.com, on Facebook & Twitter. One of the extras that I loved on Jodie's site was the recipe for her heroine Erica's brownies that she used to break the ice with her hero Dylan. Yum (x2)! I love a good brownie (is there anything better than a brownie?) and me thinks you can't go wrong with one that's called Death by Chocolate ;)

If you'd like to learn more about author Sidney Bristol you can find her at her website www.sidneybristol.com, her blog, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, & Google +.

To celebrate the release of both of their Ellora's Cave erotic romances, Jodie & Sidney would like to giveaway a digital e-book copy of either Dirty Beautiful or Flirting with Rescue to one lucky Musings follower. Here's how you can enter to win:

Ways to earn entries:

Mandatory: What about you...sexy romp or thoughtful lover? Dirty talk...yes or no? Focused seduction, or a little slap, tickle & giggle? AND please leave a comment about the authors books or ask a question.(good for 1 entry)
Mandatory: You MUST be a Google Friend Connect (GFC) follower in order to be eligible to win (unfortunately an email subscriber, or subscription in Google reader, and a follower are not the same thing so make sure you are signed up as a follower if you'd like to win this book)
If you have a blog, or even if you don't, you can earn extra entries by telling your friends. If they successfully enter to win and mention that you sent them you can each earn extra entries. You can blog about it with a link to this post, post it on Facebook, Twitter, email...or even word of mouth (good for 5 entries for the referrer and the commenter for each friend) . Please note that to earn the points they must mention your GFC name so that I can match you.
Purchase any item from the Seductive Musings Amazon store by using this link, or the Amazon widget contained within this post and email a copy of your purchase receipt to me no later than the deadline to enter (email available in sidebar). Sorry purchases made prior to this date do not apply, and link contained in this post must be used. No faxes or snail mail copies are allowed. No purchases are necessary to win. (good for 25 entries, or 50 entries if a purchase is made from the featured author's available titles)

How to enter:

You can choose to enter as many different ways that you want, but please place all of your entries in ONE comment

Rules and disclaimers:

This contest is open to US & International addresses
You must be at least 18 years or older, or of legal age in your country
The contest will end on January 15th at 11:59 pm EST and winner will be posted after they have been selected
Winner(s) will be selected using Random.org
The winner(s) will have THREE days from the date they are posted to provide a mailing address. If you do not contact me within three days a replacement winner will be selected. NO EXCEPTIONS
The book(s) will be mailed directly from the publisher or author and no substitutions are allowed
Winners will be subject to one copy per household, which means that if you win the same title in two or more contests, that you will only receive one copy of the title in the mail
Seductive Musings is not responsible for prizes that are not honored, distributed in a timely manner, lost, stolen, or damaged during transit
All giveaways are subject to change/cancellation without prior written notice

Good Luck!

Review: Beautiful Criminal by B. L. Bonita

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:02:00 +0000

Title: Beautiful Criminal*
Author: B.L. Bonita
Genre: Erotic Romance
Publisher: Noble Romance Publishing, LLC
Format: E Book
Date/Year: September 2011
Reviewed by: DD

*This book was provided to the reviewer by the author in exchange for an honest review

Summary from the publisher:

A mountain woman's peace is about to be disturbed.

Mima Etu lives a quiet life with her sled dogs in the Canadian Rockies. During a routine run with her best friend, she comes across a recent plane crash and a pilot on the brink of death. With the sun setting and the temperature dropping, taking him to the nearest hospital isn't an option. She brings the mystery man back to her cabin and nurses him back to health.

On a deadly mission with precious cargo, Gabriel Miller loses control of his Cessna and plunges into pilot's hell. He awakens in the comfort of a log cabin with a gorgeous native woman tending his every need. Her soft-spoken beauty sparks his longing for a different kind of life--and a torrid love affair. But their liaison is about to end. The owners of the cargo are out to find him, and they don’t plan on leaving any witnesses behind.

My Musings:

Frankly, after reading several of them, I’m not the biggest fan of novellas. I never feel like they are enough, and sometimes they don’t do anything but make me want more. Kind of like today, when I ate sushi for lunch. It was yummy, but I was still hungry. I didn’t feel this way about Beautiful Criminal, however.. It was just enough, a tasty little morsel yes, but instead of being a sub-par lunch it was more like.....dessert.

Mima Etu is a native wilderness gal living in the remote Canadian Rockies alone after her family is killed in an avalanche.. She and her best friend Mary run and raise sled dogs, and lead an existence that is usually not penetrated by outsiders. One day, they are sledding with the team of canines and they come upon a small Cessna covered in snow. Mary is the queasy one of the two, so Mima braces herself and peers inside-She sees a beautiful man that is not moving and bloody. Since the hospital is miles away and she fears he may not be of this world much longer, the two ladies drag the stranger to Mima’s house (Mary is married). There is some interesting cargo in Gabe’s plane, and the women aren’t sure what it is or what reason he would have for flying in the remote area anyway. Against her intellect, Mima nurses him back to.....health *wink wink*. Does this sound familiar?? (Teeheehee). It has been done, but honestly, do we EVER get tired of that story line? I think not.

Mima is exotic and beautiful and sexy. She is also strong as can be, raises dogs, keeps fires going better than any boy scout, and shoots her own food. Through all of this, she manages to stay feminine-at least in Gabe’s eyes. She is a heroine that is just that-you can really look up to her and she is amazing. I don’t know if women like her exist, but if they do, there are some happy men in the Canadian Rockies.

Gabe is a huge super hot guy (except apparently he has a missing pinky toe and several hoop earrings. I find the earrings strange). He is good at his core, but a misguided father figure has courted him into a world that is not safe and not legal and damn the consequences. Since Gabe needed a hero after the devastating loss of his own father, he has done everything for this man. Not until his plane crashes does he enter a world where he understands what peace and contentment in your soul is really like, and that sometimes the agendas of those you love aren’t always genuine.

There is a bad guy in this story, and I really like that with the limited story line the villian was not over-explored. Really, we care that he is after the good guys, but we don’t really care what his thought processes are too terribly much. At least I wasn’t and I was glad I didn’t have to be bogged down with too much psycho-who-feels-he-is-wronged info. The love scenes were a little forced to me, but hey, when you wanna go at it, why wait?

All in all, I would be willing to read more from B.L. Bonita. She is refreshing, and I need more dessert. I’m hungry.

Ratings:

Overall: 4.75 Stars. There are a few things I would have changed but it was much better than the standard novella.

Sensuality level: 4.00. It is classified as an erotic romance. It is erotic, but there aren’t too many pages, so if we want to know anything about the characters they can’t have a boink fest on every page.

For a complete understanding and definition of the ratings at Seductive Musings, click here

Other Reviews:

Review: Dirty Beautiful by Jodie Becker

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Title: Dirty Beautiful*
Author: Jodie Becker
Series: n/a
Genre: Contemporary Erotic Romance
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave Publishing
Format: e-book
Date/Year: 11/2011
Reviewed by: ElaineReads

*This book was provided to me by the author for review.

Summary from the publisher:

My Musings:

Erica is a small town elementary school teacher in Georgia. She lives in her Grandmother’s house and apparently has never been anywhere else. She even attended college from home, so she would not have to leave her ailing grandmother.

Dylan, also a Southerner, although he is from Arkansas, has recently moved to this small Georgia town from Los Angeles. He is getting out of “the life” of being a porn star. Of course, he thinks he is going to be able to keep his past a secret.

Obviously, he doesn’t really know small towns.

The storyline was one I have not read before and that is saying something with the number of books I read. I found this one to be unique, if a little unbelievable. And that is my only real problem with the book. The characters are likable and Dylan’s reasons for becoming a porn star, as will as his struggle to return to a normal life, are convincing. However, I did have trouble buying that he introduces Erica to his friends in LA, but does not expect them to tell her about the business.

My real issue with the book is Erica and the town she lives in. I found her situation implausible in a number of ways. First, and this is a minor point, she has never seen a beach. This is Georgia, not Kansas, and Georgians go to the beach. No educated person is that isolated.

Which brings up another issue . . . Erica is an elementary school teacher in a small Southern town and when Dylan’s past life is revealed, there are very few repercussions from the townspeople. Teachers are expected to be like Caesar's wife . . . above reproach. There is no way the citizens would have accepted Erica dating, much less having an affair, with a porn star.

Finally, Erica has been betrayed by a previous boyfriend and has strong doubts that she can hold any man. Although, she is upset when she finds out about his past, she accepts that he loves her (eventually) and does not seem to have any problems with the fact that he has had sex with hundreds of women.

As you can see, I have had a hard time getting past the “yeah, right” portions of the plot. The storyline is unique, the characters are likable, and the book is well written. I just wish more thought had been given to the reactions of the characters to the situation.

And one more thing, I have been a teacher in a small town in Georgia . . . and St. Simon’s Island is my favorite beach.

Ratings:

Overall: 3 stars
Sensuality level: 4

For a complete understanding and definition of the ratings at Seductive Musings, click here

Other Reviews:

Booklovers, Inc. (3.5 bookies)
Smexy Books (D)
Two Lips Reviews (5 lips)

Guest Author & Giveaway: Tori St. Claire featuring Stripped

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

I know there's this whole fitness crave right now with stripping poles and dancing. And while I can appreciate the athleticism to do it, as well as the dancing ability necessary to pull it off....I just can't do it. I guess I just don't have the inner sex kitten pseudo-stripper gene :)

But don't let the title or the cover of Tori St. Claire's debut novel, Stripped, fool you, because this story has very little to do with stripping...even though it takes place in a strip club and is the basis for the story. It's more about the heroine's stripping down all of the layers of her Black Opal persona to rediscover the person that she used to be...wants to be again.

Tori St. Claire is my guest today and is here to share a bit about her complex heroine Natalya and the character's role as a Black Opal agent, and has provided a special excerpt just for Musings readers. Read and enjoy!

Understanding the Black Opals

They exist only in shadow. An elite team of deadly operatives created to satisfy increasing international threats. Their world is the dark underground, where sin and pleasure dominate and lies are second nature. To those who cross them, they are professional killers. Within the CIA, they are the rare Black Opals. . . .

One of the things I think it’s important to understand about the Black Opals is that they are not a band of undercover operatives who skip around and laugh and impersonate clowns. Nor are they the CIA’s equivalent of a good undercover cop.

They are professional killers. Let me say that again – they are professional killers.

Translation: assassin.

Which means, a Black Opal is going to do whatever it takes to get a job done. And you are going to experience those necessary evils with them. If you’re looking for a lighthearted read with elements of suspense, or even a more mainstream suspense, don’t be surprised to find the characters in the Black Opal series behaving more like villains than perhaps ideological heroes.

These men and women exceed the concept of normal by leaps and bounds. They do not exist on paper in any fashion, and very few governmental figureheads are going to be aware of their presence or utility. Many of them come from pasts that are equally as dark and uncomfortable as the lives they currently lead. Some of them, like Natalya in Stripped, just became wrapped up in her job and one day realized where she was at. What she’d become.

Fear is a word they don’t recognize. Failure isn’t part of their vocabulary. And when it comes to pleasure – well, if life can cease to exist at any given moment, they know how to indulge and enjoy like no other.

The worlds they walk in are dark, coarse, and raw. They deal daily with criminals and psychopaths whose motives make the Opals look like choirboys. To effectively interact in those environments, to make it to the next sunrise, they must have… shall we say flexible… morals.

But at the core of their beings, when all the layers are unraveled, all the deeds overlooked, they are human beings. Men and women who laugh, hurt, and love just like you and I. Their jobs are conducted to keep you and I safe. To keep our country intact. To eradicate the threats that exist internationally and make the world a better place. If that means eliminating someone along the way, if that means getting their hands equally as dirty…

You’ll see all of this in Stripped. Natalya is a Black Opal, through and through. An assignment is just a job. A separation between the heart and duty. The trouble arises when passion enters the equation and desire alters the stakes.

And only the best Black Opals can balance imminent danger with exquisite pleasure.

Read an excerpt from Ch.1
& enjoy a very special excerpt for Musings readers below:

     “Tell me what you want, beautiful.” His breath rasped over her cheek. Featherlight kisses accompanied the whisper, trailing across her skin in a taunting path toward her mouth.

     Kiss me. She turned her head in search of lips she instinctively knew would be warm, the words on the tip of her tongue. Kiss me until I don’t care whether I live or die.

     Honesty. Just once.

     He caught her lower lip with his teeth, the nip nowhere near gentle. But the lazy stroke of his tongue soothed the stinging bite. She parted her lips, dipped her tongue out to touch his.

     Brandon’s body tightened like a whip. The pressure in her lower back increased as his fingers curled into her skin. Their breaths mingled. The tips of their tongues met in a slow, sensual dance. As another spasm of ecstasy threatened to send her tumbling into his solid chest, she braced her hands on his shoulders.

     And then Brandon was gone, the magic of his fingers disappearing as he stepped back and set both hands on her waist. His gaze scorched in to flood her body with tingles. He waited, his question unspoken, but hanging between them.

     Tell me what you want.

     Clearly he intended to make her admit she wanted to feel him deep inside her. Wanted to experience the slide of his bare skin against hers. And God, how she wanted to kiss him. To taste the desire that burned in his gaze and the indescribable flavor of hot, aroused man.

     Confessing might lead her to an early grave, but for once, her conscious would be clear. She swallowed hard and dug deep for the courage that had kept her alive these last three years. His gaze followed the sweep of her tongue as she moistened her lips.

     “Kiss me.” Her senses honed in on her whisper, amplifying it and the ragged fall of their mutual breathing. She became aware of every minuscule sound as she waited for Brandon to either dip his head and honor her request, or shove her aside with a wicked sneer.

     He took a step closer, bringing their bodies in contact from chest to toes. One arm wrapped around her waist, then slid up her back to offer support between her shoulder blades. The other tangled in her hair, tipping her head back. Putting her where he wanted her—subtle dominance that thrilled her in places she hadn’t known existed. Her womb clamped hard, sending another rush of moisture through her pussy.

      His mouth descended. Warm lips played against hers, drawing her into the spell his body wove. Pulling her in so deep she struggled for air.

     The sudden, brassy ring of her cell phone jolted her out of hazy desire. She froze. With Kate and Sergei due to arrive at Fantasia any minute, there could only be one other person calling at this time of day—Dmitri. It would be almost one in the morning in Moscow. The time Dmitri put aside his work and crawled into bed. He’d want to talk before he slept.

     “Don’t answer that,” Brandon whispered against her mouth.

    Damn if those lips weren’t compelling. She’d had his mouth on her breast, knew the incredible magic his tongue could create there, but had yet to experience the tantalizing slide of his tongue against hers. The need to feel his mouth on hers, to get lost in his potent masculinity pressed her to ignore the ringing tones.

      Duty, however, rose up screaming. If she didn’t answer, Dmitri would get suspicious.

     “I have to.”

Congratulations Tori and thanks for being my guest today! I know that Moretti was more than distracted by Natalya's seductiveness, but Moretti was some pretty hot stuff so I can totally understand why Natalya risks it all to be with him. I know I would :)

If you'd like to learn more about author Tori St. Claire and her alter ego Claire Ashgrove (who consequently also had a release on Jan 3rd) you can find her at her website www.toristclaire.com, her blog, & Twitter. The next book in the Black Opals series is Lie to Me and is scheduled to release this summer in July 2012. Oh yeah, hot fun in the summer!

To celebrate the release of the first book in the Black Opals series, Stripped, author Tori St. Claire is giving away a $25 Amazon gift card to one lucky commenter during the tour! Here's how you can enter to win:

Ways to earn entries:

Mandatory: Ask Tori a question about Stripped or her Black Opals series. (good for 1 entry)

How to enter:

Leave a comment at each stop on the blog tour to earn additional entries for the $25 GC.

Rules and disclaimers:

The winner(s) for the $25 GC will be selected randomly from among all of the comments of the blog tour by either the author or by Goddess Fish Promotions who will also be responsible for contacting the winner(s).
Seductive Musings is not responsible for prizes that are not honored, distributed in a timely manner, lost, stolen, or damaged during transit
All giveaways are subject to change/cancellation without prior written notice

Good Luck!

Guest Author & Giveaway: Vivian Arend featuring Rocky Mountain Haven

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

I've been sick sick sick since Christmas which is why I've not been online very much the last few weeks. I couldn't even muster up the energy to do the last few Monday's Muse posts...which has never happened since I started the blog. Basically, I only did what I had to.

So when I was at the Dr.'s office with Little Love last week to get another round of antibiotics we were sitting in the waiting room...me feeling miserable, she of course playing with the toys which were probably infected with God only knows what (so that she can share the love with me even more) when in walks a woman in a great deal of pain. I hurt for her...even through my own misery.

So Little Love, who tells everyone she meets that she's "a little shy", walks over to her and asks her what's wrong. God love her, it's a good thing she's so cute :) The poor woman, trying not to cry, says that she hurt her back. And of course that answer is not complete enough for an inquisitive mind, so I think you can guess the next question which was, "How'd you hurt your back?" Which actually made the woman smile :) Like I said, Little Love is too cute for her own good. Anywho, the woman goes on to say "...you probably won't believe this but I hurt my back when I coughed really hard". The woman was saved from more rounds of twenty questions by being called in to see the Dr, but her answer made me realize that my own bronchitis (hacking up a lung for weeks then added the flu on top) could be so much worse. At least I hadn't hurt my back by coughing. That while I was miserable, it wasn't unbearable, and for that I was very very grateful...as well as having cough syrup with codeine :) Focus on the positive.

Now that I've probably bored you completely with my "poor me" story, I have the pleasure of having Vivian Arend as my guest today to share with us how she likes to write a book, choosing to concentrate on good things, and about her new and improved version of Rocky Mountain Haven, the second book the in Six Pack Ranch series. Read and enjoy!

Someone asked me how to write a book.

Yeah…

Well…

…you start at the beginning and go through until the end, and then you stop.

Easy, right? But where’s the beginning? In the case Rocky Mountain Haven, the beginning starts well before the opening pages of the book. There are pieces of both Beth and Daniel that have been molded and bent, and twisted even, long before they set eyes on each other.

Just like us, the characters in a book have a past that impacts their future. Makes decisions tough, makes them doubt and waver. It takes strength to move forward from our pasts and venture into a new future.

Even if there have been good things in our lives, face it—when you think about your past week, the temptation is not to look back at the ten good things that happened, but to concentrate on the one worst thing. I heard someone once call this the ‘Black Spot Syndrome’. If you have a perfectly-pristine white page and place one small dot on it, what is your eye drawn to? The almost virginal white that covers most of the page, or the small dark splot?

Right.

So looking where to start this story, I chose the moment when the heroine has promised herself to take her eyes off the black spot and concentrate on the shiny white future. It’s a point that all of us need in some way, whether it’s something big like Beth is dealing with, or smaller things. To promise ourselves it’s time to move forward. To look for new happiness.

To not so much erase the black spot, but to turn it into a real picture, full of life and light and happy moments.

I hope you enjoy Beth and Daniel’s search for their happily-ever-after.

It’s the quiet ones that take you by surprise.

Six Pack Ranch, Book 2

Beth Danube’s emotionally abusive husband is dead and buried. So is her heart. It’s no big deal, she has all she wants: her three little boys and a fresh start in a small Alberta town. What she doesn’t want is another man in her life—not now, maybe not ever.

After ten years of unsatisfactory, missionary-position sex, she never expected her libido to reawaken. One look at sex-in-boots Daniel Coleman in a Calgary bar, though, blows the dust off her sexuality.

Sensing an edge of desperation, even fear, beneath Beth’s come-on, Daniel finds himself giving in to the powerful urge to let his normally subdued desires run wild. The lady wants non-judgmental, non-vanilla sex? She’s got it—in and out of the bedroom.

At first, friends with blazing-hot benefits is more than enough. Then she realizes Daniel is burning away the protective fortress around her heart…and the guilty secret she dare not reveal.

This book has been expanded and revised from previous publication.

Product Warnings:

One woman determined to retake control of her life, a man with the single-minded purpose of offering her—and her body—everything she needs. Inappropriate behavior in barns, change rooms, and oh-my-gawd phone sex with a cowboy.

Read Ch 1

Congratulations Vivian!!! Happy release day! Daniel is a little bit of Six Pack Ranch heaven...vanilla, non-vanilla...doesn't matter what flavor, he's beyond yummy :)

If you'd like to learn more about Vivian Arend and all of the different types of romances that she writes you can find her at her website www.vivianarend.com, her blog, on Facebook, and on Twitter.

Ways to earn entries:

Mandatory: What's your favorite part of the excerpt, or the part that intrigued you the most? Me....I've gotta say that I love Daniel's "multiple choices" cause I'm a girl who likes options too :) (good for 1 entry)
Mandatory: You MUST be a Google Friend Connect (GFC) follower in order to be eligible to win (unfortunately an email subscriber, or subscription in Google reader, and a follower are not the same thing so make sure you are signed up as a follower if you'd like to win this book)
If you have a blog, or even if you don't, you can earn extra entries by telling your friends. If they successfully enter to win and mention that you sent them you can each earn extra entries. You can blog about it with a link to this post, post it on Facebook, Twitter, email...or even word of mouth (good for 5 entries for the referrer and the commenter for each friend) . Please note that to earn the points they must mention your GFC name so that I can match you.
Purchase any item from the Seductive Musings Amazon store by using this link, or the Amazon widget contained within this post and email a copy of your purchase receipt to me no later than the deadline to enter (email available in sidebar). Sorry purchases made prior to this date do not apply, and link contained in this post must be used. No faxes or snail mail copies are allowed. No purchases are necessary to win. (good for 25 entries, or 50 entries if a purchase is made from the featured author's available titles)

How to enter:

You can choose to enter as many different ways that you want, but please place all of your entries in ONE comment

Rules and disclaimers:

This contest is open to US & International addresses
You must be at least 18 years or older, or of legal age in your country
The contest will end on January 13th at 11:59 pm EST and winner will be posted after they have been selected
Winner(s) will be selected using Random.org
The winner(s) will have THREE days from the date they are posted to provide a mailing address. If you do not contact me within three days a replacement winner will be selected. NO EXCEPTIONS
The book(s) will be mailed directly from the publisher or author and no substitutions are allowed
Winners will be subject to one copy per household, which means that if you win the same title in two or more contests, that you will only receive one copy of the title in the mail
Seductive Musings is not responsible for prizes that are not honored, distributed in a timely manner, lost, stolen, or damaged during transit
All giveaways are subject to change/cancellation without prior written notice

Good Luck!

Guest Author & Giveaway: Alexandra Hawkins featuring Sunrise with a Notorious Lord

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

I love my Mom. I think she is the best, even if she is a bit passive aggressive, which drives me insane :) She always ready with helpful suggestions, and always with my best interests at heart...even if we disagree about those interests and how to go about it. But one thing she has never been is meddling, and for that I am eternally grateful :)

Alexandra Hawkins' newest hero "Vane", isn't quite as lucky since his mother is determined to see him married...like pronto. Alexandra is my guest today to share a bit about the fourth and newest book in her Lords of Vice series, Sunrise with a Notorious Lord with a special two chapter excerpt. Read and enjoy!

DOES MOTHER REALLY KNOW BEST?

In the fourth installment of the Lords of Vice series, Sunrise With a Notorious Lord, Christopher Courtland, Earl of Vanewright or “Vane” would politely disagree. While he loves his seventy-year-old mother and would move heaven and earth for her, he refuses to allow Lady Netherley to handpick his future bride. For several books, Vane has managed to dodge his mother’s not-so-subtle attempts at matchmaking.

However, what had once seemed amusing to Vane, has gradually become a silent battle of wills. Lady Netherley intends to see her son married, or else. In the opening chapters of Sunrise With a Notorious Lord, his mother’s stubbornness on the issue is beginning to worry Vane.

While he is content to remain a bachelor, if he did ever decide to marry, the lady would be one of his own choosing. When Vane encounters Miss Isabel Thorne in a dressmaker’s shop, he believes he has found the perfect lady to foil his mother. Especially, when the lady confides that she is “almost betrothed” and has no interest in anything other than friendship.

What I love about this story is that neither Vane nor Isabel has any interest in pursuing a relationship, and yet, a reluctant friendship springs up between them almost immediately. Their story turned out to be more light-hearted than some of the other Lords of Vice books as Isabel teaches Vane about sacrifice, and he charms and coaxes her into mischief, while both of them dance around the delicate issue of marriage.

It was truly a pleasure to write about the downfall of another Lords of Vice!

Dashing, decadent, and deliciously seductive, the notorious Lords of Vice indulge their every desire—from dusk until dawn…

Christopher Courtland, Earl of Vanewright—known around London as “Vane”—is the very picture of a rich, handsome ladies’ man. Why shackle himself to just one lady when he’s free to sample them all? In spite of his own mother’s attempts at matchmaking, Vane has sworn to stay single. Until he has a chance run-in with Miss Isabel Thorne…

A modest and refined beauty, Isabel is a lot more brazen than she appears. When a pickpocket tries to make away with Vane’s bejeweled snuffbox, Isabel attempts to thwart his escape…and manages to steal Vane’s heart. But the harder he tries to seduce the sharp-tongued, strong-willed Isabel, the more she resists. Now it’s up to this tried-and-true bachelor to find a new way to play the game…or risk losing the one woman who’s ever captured his heart.

Read a special excerpt of Ch 1-2 for Musings readers in the flipbook below:

or in this google document if you prefer

Congratulations Alexandra! As you know, I've been waiting for Vane's book for what seems like forever and am so excited that it's finally here! *Squee* Who wouldn't love a hero that was "Dashing, decadent, and deliciously seductive?"

If you'd like to learn more about USA Today Bestselling author Alexandra Hawkins, as well as the Lords of Vice series, you can visit her at her website www.alexandrahawkins.com, on Facebook, at Twitter, and at her Newsletter.

To celebrate the release of the fourth book in the Lord of Vice series, Sunrise with a Notorious Lord, Alexandra Hawkins is giving away a print copy of her book to one Musings follower! Here's how you can enter to win.

Ways to earn entries:

Mandatory: Answer this question: What's your favorite part from the excerpt? If you've read the LOV series who's your favorite hero so far, or the one you've been highly anticipating? AND please show Alexandra comment love with a question or thought about her Lords of Vice. (good for 1 entry)
Mandatory: You MUST be a Google Friend Connect (GFC) follower in order to be eligible to win (unfortunately an email subscriber, or subscription in Google reader, and a follower are not the same thing so make sure you are signed up as a follower if you'd like to win this book)
If you have a blog, or even if you don't, you can earn extra entries by telling your friends. If they successfully enter to win and mention that you sent them you can each earn extra entries. You can blog about it with a link to this post, post it on Facebook, Twitter, email...or even word of mouth (good for 5 entries for the referrer and the commenter for each friend) . Please note that to earn the points they must mention your GFC name so that I can match you.
You can also earn extra entries by sharing the flipbook excerpt on Facebook, Twitter, your website or blog or other social media sites. You can earn 5 entries for each place that you share it and leave a link in the comments.
Purchase any item from the Seductive Musings Amazon store by using this link, or the Amazon widget contained within this post and email a copy of your purchase receipt to me no later than the deadline to enter (email available in sidebar). Sorry purchases made prior to this date do not apply, and link contained in this post must be used. No faxes or snail mail copies are allowed. No purchases are necessary to win. (good for 25 entries, or 50 entries if a purchase is made from the featured author's available titles)

How to enter:

You can choose to enter as many different ways that you want, but please place all of your entries in ONE comment

Rules and disclaimers:

This contest is open to US & Canada addresses only. No PO Boxes.
You must be at least 18 years or older, or of legal age in your country
The contest will end on January 9th at 11:59 pm EST and winner will be posted after they have been selected
Winner(s) will be selected using Random.org
The winner(s) will have THREE days from the date they are posted to provide a mailing address. If you do not contact me within three days a replacement winner will be selected. NO EXCEPTIONS
The book(s) will be mailed directly from the publisher or author and no substitutions are allowed
Winners will be subject to one copy per household, which means that if you win the same title in two or more contests, that you will only receive one copy of the title in the mail
Seductive Musings is not responsible for prizes that are not honored, distributed in a timely manner, lost, stolen, or damaged during transit
All giveaways are subject to change/cancellation without prior written notice

Good Luck!

Guest Author & Giveaway: Roni Loren featuring Crash Into You

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Ever since reading Jane Eyre I've considered myself a "hopeless romantic", and proud of it frankly. Jane overcomes a lot to end up with Mr. Rochester. She's brave and bold and conquers her fears. Love that. Everything about it.

But since reading Crash Into You by Roni Loren, and learning more about the romances that this author writes...about characters who push beyond their fears and go after what they want...I think I might actually be more of a "fearless romantic" than a "hopeless romantic".

Romance author Roni Loren is my guest today to share a bit about her debut erotic romance, Crash Into You published by Berkley Heat, and why she writes stories for fearless romantics...like myself :). Read and enjoy!

On Being a Fearless Romantic

When I was developing my website, someone told me I needed a tagline--some little snippet that told people what my books were about and what kind of author I was.

The idea kind of freaked me out. How am I supposed to come up with half a sentence that encompasses all of that? Oh, and also find one that doesn’t sound ridiculously cheesy. (My first one I thought of was sinfully delicious romance—uh, yeah, *facepalm*. Sounds like a whacked-out version of the Lucky Charms “magically delicious” tagline. Suddenly I was picturing leprechauns getting it on. NOT what I was going for.)

So this led me to a brainstorming session. What were my books truly about? What kind of stories do I write? Yes, I write erotic romance. Yes, it has BDSM themes. I could go down any of those paths and come up with something related to bondage or being naughty or sexy or what have you. But was that really what the heart of my stories was about?

No. My books are romances. They are stories of people finding that person (or persons in some cases) who fulfill something inside them that no else can. My books are for people like me—the hopeless romantics who can’t resist a happy ending.

But it’s also more than that. My books are not for the faint of heart or for people who shy away from reading love scenes. My characters are people who, for one reason or another, aren’t satisfied with the status quo or the “typical” relationship. Some part of them craves something edgier (hence my series being called Loving on the Edge.) They are everyday people who are pushing past their fears and going after what they want. So that’s where I came up with the “fearless” part of my tagline.

And not only are my characters fearless romantics, but those who read the books are too. I love that erotic romance has boomed and so many women (and the occasional man, lol) are embracing a genre that pushes boundaries and explores things that used to be taboo.

So that’s how I ended up with my tagline: For the ~~Hopeless~~ Fearless Romantic

What do you think? Would you have laughed at my website if I had stuck with sinfully delicious? : ) Do you consider yourself a hopeless and/or fearless romantic?

Sometimes the past can bring you to your knees...

Brynn LeBreck has dedicated herself to helping women in crisis, but she never imagined how personal her work would get, or where it would take her. Her younger sister is missing, suspected to be hiding from cops and criminals alike at a highly secretive BDSM retreat—a place where the elite escape to play out their most extreme sexual fantasies. To find her Brynn must go undercover as a sexual submissive. Unfortunately, The Ranch is invitation only. And the one Master who can get her in is from the darkest corner of Brynn’s past.

Brynn knows what attorney Reid Jamison is like once stripped of his conservative suit and tie. Years ago she left herself vulnerable only to have him crush her heart. Now she needs him again. Back on top. And he’s all too willing to engage. But as their primal desires and old wounds are exposed, the sexual games escalate—and so does the danger. Their hearts aren’t the only things at risk. Someone else is watching, playing by his own rules. And his game could be murder.

Read an excerpt

And just for Musings readers here is an exclusive (& steamy) excerpt from one of my favorite moments in the book.

Preface: *CRASH INTO YOU is told in chapters alternating between the present and ten years earlier. This is from a “past” chapter.*

“I hopped an earlier flight.” He dipped his sun-tanned face closer and brushed his lips against hers. “I couldn’t stay away from you for another minute. I’ve never hated the beach so much in my life.”

“What? Too many beautiful, bikini-clad girls for you?” She poked his ribs.

“Ooh, jealousy. I like it on you.” His thumb stroked the small of her back, her skin coming alive beneath his touch. “And I didn’t need to check out the other girls. I already have the one I want.”

She stared into the bottomless blue of his eyes, unable to tell if he was being serious or simply being his charming self. How could she be what he wanted? He couldn’t even take her out in public for fear someone in his circle would see them. She pushed the ugly thought away and tilted her chin up. “Guess I shouldn’t have spent my week working my way through the guys in the office, then. I didn’t realize you were going to have such a strict moral code on your trip.”

“Oh, is that what you’ve been up to?” The corner of his mouth tipped up. “I’m not enough to satisfy you? Maybe I should’ve taken Jace up on his offer to join us for a threesome.”

Her eyes widened and retort got hung up in her throat. Reid and Jace. Whoa.

He laughed and kissed the tip of her nose. “Don’t worry. I told him no. Even though I’m guessing by the way your body just quivered, you’re not totally opposed to the idea. Naughty girl. Too bad I’m too selfish to share you.”

She shook her head, dismissing the erotic images the crazy suggestion had sparked. “You’re more than enough for me to handle.”

“Uh-huh. Then why are your cheeks getting all red?” he asked, trailing his fingers along the curve of her ass. “What other fantasies are rolling around in that pretty head of yours?”

Fantasies. She looked down so he couldn’t read her expression. Was that all this was about for him? Exploration. Games. Sex. Or did he get the same fist-to-the-solar-plexus feeling she got anytime she thought about the end of summer?

She hid her thoughts with a saucy smile. “Wouldn’t you like to know.”

“Vicious tease.” He dragged her away from the open fridge and lifted her with ease, guiding her legs around his waist. Her skirt bunched around her thighs, and he nipped at her lower lip. “Man, I’ve missed you like crazy this week.”

She couldn’t stave off the smile that hopped to her lips, a little zip of giddiness going through her at the obvious sincerity his words. Maybe he did feel something more. “Really? You missed me?”

“Ah, sugar, you have no idea.”

Her heart did a little flip, confirming how far into crazytown she’d strayed. Okay, so this was stupid. Insane. She was getting in too deep. She should run hard and fast. There were a thousand reasons why this couldn’t work long-term.

But she couldn’t bring herself to turn away from him. No one had ever made her feel this good, this free to be herself. Alive. So she shoved the worries in a mental closet and kicked the door closed. Stressing about the inevitable wouldn’t get her anywhere. She would figure out how to say goodbye. Soon.

But not while he was giving her that look that made her insides go liquid. She kissed along the curve of his neck. “So are you going to show me how much you missed me? Or do I need to call one of the other guys?”

A low growl rumbled from his chest as he swung her to the left and planted her back against the wall. “Well I was going to take you to get some dinner first. But if you insist. I’ll gladly fuck you right here. Grab the edges of the shelf above your head and don’t let go. I’ll show you exactly how much I missed you.”

Thank you so much Roni for being my guest today, and SUPER congrats on the release of Crash Into You which is out today! Woo hoo! I hope it's a big hit for you, because I absolutely loved it and can't wait for Melt Into You (7/3/2012) which is sure to bring some summer lovin' to my little booklover hands ;) I can't even begin to tell you how excited I was to see that Grant (the cowboy master) will be getting his own story...but not until January 2013 *sobs*. Oh yeah, I checked it all out :)

I plan to post my review of Crash Into You later this week to let you all know exactly what it was that I loved about this story and why Roni Loren may be a favorite find of 2012 (already!). If you'd like to learn more about Roni and the erotic romances that she writes you can find her at her website www.roniloren.com, her website blog, her writing blog Fiction Groupie, Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads, Tumblr, and Google+....whew, that girl is connected! I admit that I am a fan of her "Boyfriend of the Week" posts :) Can anyone guess why?

To celebrate the release of Crash Into You, Roni Loren is giving away a set of signed "Crash" Romance Trading Cards to one Musings follower, and your comment will also enter you to win a $25 Amazon GC to a randomly drawn commenter from the virtual tour! Here's how you can enter to win:

Ways to earn entries:

Mandatory: Answer the question Roni asked readers in her post and let her know what you think about the excerpts! Ask her a question...in general, show her some comment love :) (good for 1 entry)

How to enter:

Leave a comment at each stop on the blog tour to earn additional entries for the $25 GC. Your comment at Seductive Musings also enters you to win a set of signed Romance Trading Cards to be given away to one Musings commenter.

Rules and disclaimers:

The winner(s) for the $25 GC will be selected randomly from among all of the comments of the blog tour by either the author or by Goddess Fish Promotions who will also be responsible for contacting the winner(s).
Seductive Musings is not responsible for prizes that are not honored, distributed in a timely manner, lost, stolen, or damaged during transit
All giveaways are subject to change/cancellation without prior written notice

Good Luck!

Guest Author & Giveaway: Cassandra Carr featuring Head Games

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

After all of the holiday hoopla I could use a little pampering...ok, really it's more than just a little necessary at this point. I need a vacation, which sadly, isn't going to happen.

One thing that got me through all of the craziness was lists. I'm a list maker. I find them incredibly helpful, and it's not even to have the satisfaction of crossing things off, it's so that I don't forget something important.

Erotic Romance Author Cassandra Carr is my guest today with a list of her own...it's one kind of list that I've never made :) Cassandra and her heroine Kathy, from Head Games, discuss the pros and cons of having a menage relationship. Read and enjoy!

My heroine makes a pro/con list with a little help from me

Me: Kelly, I believe you're contemplating a life-changing decision. Can you tell us about it?

Kelly: Yes! These two hot guys I know have proposed that they share me. Can you believe it?!?

Me: Share?

Kelly: Yeah, like both be with me in a relationship.

Me: Ohh, kinky!

Kelly: *blushes* Yeah. But if you could see these guys...

Me: Oh, I've seen them. I created them.

Kelly: This is true!

Me: You know what always helps me make decisions like this? A pro/con list!

Kelly: *tilts her head* That might actually work!

Me: *getting out paper and a pen* Let's try it! Now, what would you say one "pro" to being with these guys is?

Kelly: Well, one that's obvious...they're both smokin' hot.

Me: I agree! *writes down 'smokin' hot bods'*

Kelly: And a con would be that if the public finds out I'm with both of those smokin' hot bods my reputation could be dragged through the mud.

Me: *nodding severely* Yes, that's possible. *writes down 'mud'*

Kelly: Another pro - they really focus on me. I feel like they really listen to me and care about the things I care about.

Me: Good point. *writes down 'listens/cares'*

Kelly: A con - they're out of town a lot to play games.

Me: Hmmm. *writes down 'possible strip club attendance'*

Kelly: Hey! I didn't say they might go to strip clubs.

Me: No, but I know hockey players, honey.

Kelly: But you created them! They aren't the types to do that!

Me: You've got me there. *erases*

Kelly: Another pro - they're totally supportive of the restaurant and of me having a career.

Me: Always a good thing. *writes down 'she can still work'*

Kelly: Oh, another pro - it seems silly but it's a big deal to me. Both of them are taller than me.

Me: All right. *writes down 'tallness means large'* Ow!

Kelly: That's not what I meant!

Me: Ah, but again you forget. I created them. I know how big they are.

Kelly: *blushes again* Fine, leave it there.

Me: Hey, it's a plus in my book!

Kelly: *snickers*

Me: So far the pro's are outweighing the con's.

Kelly: Then should I do it?

Me: If I two gorgeous, rich, attentive guys who wanted ME between them I'd do it in a heartbeat!

Kelly: *giggles* I gotta go.

And there you have it! See how the logic of a pro/con list can work?

Leo Laporte and Scott Schaeffer are teammates on the ice and roommates off it who also share women. They’ve been coming into Kelly Chase’s bistro after games for months, and they know they want her. As the attraction grows, the men realize they want more than a one-night stand - they want forever.

Kelly’s not so sure. Yes, she wants both men. But a permanent ménage relationship? That’s taking giving her heart away to a whole new level, and a chance she’s hesitant to take. Then Leo is injured and Scott’s on the trading block, and she realizes this may be her only shot at true, everlasting love.

There are so many questions swirling around inside Kelly’s head. Can she believe in Leo and Scott’s love? And will her business and her reputation survive once people find out she’s with two men?

Read an excerpt, & below is a special except for Musings readers:

“Okay, so let’s go over everything again – make sure we’re on the same page here,” Leo urged.

“All right. Can’t hurt. We need to present a united front if we’re gonna do this.”
“Exactly. So both of us want her.” They’d been attracted to Kelly since the moment they’d laid eyes on her, but had come to the realization a few months ago that their feelings ran deeper than simple lust.

Scott nodded; his eyes as determined and focused as Leo had ever seen them. “Yes, we both want her, and the only way that will work is if we share her. But we need to make it clear at some point, maybe not right up front, that we want her more than just sex.”

“And we think tonight is the night?”

“She’s definitely intrigued.” Scott paused and Leo could practically see the wheels turning in his friend’s head. “Even when we mentioned a threesome last week she didn’t run.”

“Yeah, and did you see the expression on her face? She wants it.”

“I think so, too. But don’t forget. We can’t push her too hard. And everything one of us does affects the other. We can’t let her tear us apart and if this thing starts to do that we need to reconsider.”

“Agreed,” Leo answered. He held up his fist. “Even now, even with Kelly, bros over hos, man.” The two men did a quick fist bump and Leo relaxed a little.

A few minutes later Kelly backed out of the kitchen, her arms laden with plates, and both men paused to admire her in her tight chef’s pants. She caught them staring and just shook her head, laughing.

Yes, they were done waiting for her to come around. It was time to put Operation Seduction into action.

Thank you Cassandra for being my guest today and sharing a bit about Head Games with us! If you'd like to learn more about author Cassandra Carr and the books she writes, including her upcoming Ellora's Cave story, Impact, you can find her at her website, her blog, Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads.

To celebrate Head Games, Cassandra is giving away a set of signed Romance Trading Cards to one Musings follower, and your comment will also enter you to win a $10 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn commenter from the virtual tour! Here's how you can enter to win:

Ways to earn entries:

Mandatory: Have you ever made an important decision with a pro/con list and if so how did it work out for you? (good for 1 entry)

How to enter:

Leave a comment at each stop on the blog tour to earn additional entries for the $10 GC. Your comment at Seductive Musings also enters you to win a set of signed Romance Trading Cards to be given away to one Musings commenter.

Rules and disclaimers:

The winner(s) for the $10 GC will be selected randomly from among all of the comments of the blog tour by either the author or by Goddess Fish Promotions who will also be responsible for contacting the winner(s).
The winner for the digital copy of the book will be selected randomly from among all of the comments at Seductive Musings on 12/30/11.
Seductive Musings is not responsible for prizes that are not honored, distributed in a timely manner, lost, stolen, or damaged during transit
All giveaways are subject to change/cancellation without prior written notice

Good Luck!

Friday Fun: Happy Holidays!

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

More than likely I won't be around the blog for a few days with final holiday preparations and then the actual celebration with family and friends. I know you're probably as busy as I am so I'll make this short and sweet. I hope you have a wonderful Holiday, whether you celebrate Christmas or not!

One thing I do every year is watch my favorite holiday movie, or at least one of them (the other is Little Women, but that one makes me cry which is not very pretty for Christmas photos). I love love love The Bishop's Wife. The original with Cary Grant and Loretta Young, (definitely NOT the remake with Whitney Houston...which was just a total travesty). It gives me such a feel good Christmas cheer because at the heart it's about reconnecting with who you are, with your family, the person you love but may take for granted, friends you may have lost contact with, and religion. Yes, it has some silly scenes, but for me it just adds to the charm :) And it has one of my favorite Christmas trees ever!

If you've never seen it I highly recommend it. I know most people like It's a Wonderful Life, but for me so much of that movie focuses on the depressing part of his life and you only get the feel good moment a few times...mostly at the end. The Bishop's Wife gives me that feel good, smile out loud kind of feeling all the way through. I would try to explain it, but this review on Amazon says it all. Can't beat that feeling ...nor all the tinsel on the tree :) What's your favorite holiday movie?

Happy Holidays!

Winners: All the Pleasures of the Season, Lorelei James e-book loan & Sourcebooks e-book

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

Because I have been so richly blessed I had a few surprise giveaways last week (that I'll continue to have sporadically). Here are the winners!

The winner of the promo code for a free Sourcebooks e-book is...

Artemis

(I hope you enjoy even more bytes that you can't do a damn thing with, LOL)

The winner of the Kindle loan of either Long Hard Ride, or Cowboy Casanova by Lorelei James (one of my favorite series, and authors) so that we can be addicted together is...

Carol L.

Even though you said don't enter you, you were the random winner...and who knows maybe you'll get the Kindle Fire for Christmas :)

To celebrate the release of All the Pleasures of the Season, Historical Romance author Lecia Cornwall is giving away a digital copy of the book to Musings follower...

Chelsea B.

Since you provided your email address in your comment I've already forwarded your info on, so you should hear from someone soon!

If however, you've been lucky enough to have already won these book(s) in another giveaway please let me know so that alternate winner(s) can be selected. The winners will have until Tuesday December 27th to contact me with your mailing address, otherwise alternate winner(s) will be selected.

Guest Author & Giveaway: Lecia Cornwall featuring All the Pleasures of the Season

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

I spent all last weekend baking, and candy making for the upcoming holiday festivities. I made peanut butter fudge, peanut butter blossoms, buckeyes (yep, more peanut butter) snickerdoodles and cut out cookies. It was a lot of work, but in the end we will enjoy every last bite :)

It's not altogether different than Historical Romance author Lecia Cornwall's making of her holiday Avon Impulse novella, All the Pleasures of the Season, except that she didn't wait until the last minute :) She had all the right ingredients to make a Christmas romance that we can satisfyingly savor until "the end".

Lecia is my guest today to share a bit about her Christmas confection (aka love story), All the Pleasures of the Season. Read and enjoy!

Recipe For A Christmas Love Story

On the day I was asked to write a Christmas e-novella for Avon Impulse, it was hot and sunny, and I had just finished planting my garden. I had spring mud under my nails, and Christmas was the farthest thing from my mind.

I had never written a Christmas story before, or a novella, for that matter. I didn’t know how I was going to wrap my mind around snow, mistletoe and holiday cheer while the tulips were blooming outside.

I sat down and imagined the ingredients of perfect Christmas…a castle, perhaps, in the snow-covered English countryside. There’d be the light of candles on frosted windows, the scent of evergreen boughs, the delights of mistletoe and stolen kisses, the glamour of a holiday ball, and all the pleasures of the season, including family, friends, and a winter wedding. I blended, stirred, and created this recipe for a Christmas love story.

ALL THE PLEASURES OF THE SEASON

1 Perfect Castle, set in a romantic landscape
In Secrets of A Proper Countess (April 2011) I mentioned that Carrington Castle was home to Blackwood’s grandfather. I discovered Holker Hall in the beautiful Lake District of England while I was doing my research, and it stands in for Carrington. You can see why I chose it: http://www.holker.co.uk/holker-hall-and-gardens.html

1 Heroine, in love with the wrong man
Lady Miranda Archer is the granddaughter of a duke. She’s expected to marry within her class. But that’s not where her heart lies…

1 Hero, infatuated, but uncertain
Gilbert Fielding is no match for Lady Miranda. He’s a penniless second son with no title or fortune, destined for a career in the army. Of course he loves Miranda, but her family and his would most certainly not approve of the match, even if he were brave enough to face Miranda’s formidable grandfather to propose.

1 Fool, vain and titled, with a dark secret
The Earl of Kelton is the perfect husband for Miranda. He’s got an excellent pedigree, and he’s considered the handsomest lord in England, a perfect foil for Miranda’s beauty. But five minutes after accepting his proposal, Miranda is already wondering if she’s made the right choice.

1 Family, unusual, but loving
Miranda’s family means well, and want only the best for her. Her sister Marianne considers herself the clever architect of her sister’s betrothal to Lord Kelton. Her brother wants to protect her from a man who’s all wrong for his youngest sister. Her grandfather wants to see his last grandchild married at last, so he can retire to the peace of Carrington Castle. And Marianne’s husband Adam is set on seeing that Gilbert realizes just what he stands to lose if he leaves now.

Stir together and add:

1 heart, broken
1 jaw, smashed
A dash mayhem and mischief
A hasty journey through dangerous weather
A touch of sparkle: jewels, eyes, lips and snowflakes
1 puppy
Salvation (not the kind you think)
1 magical wedding
1 Christmas Ball

Frost liberally with:

Love, enough for a lifetime—undeniable, eternal, and unforgettable—the kind that leaves you as breathless as a snowflake on skin.

Allow ingredients to simmer for several weeks, and unwrap in time for Christmas.

Doesn’t that sound delicious? I’ll be here today to chat with you, and answer your questions…and what’s Christmas without gifts and surprises? I’m giving away a copy of ALL THE PLEASURES OF THE SEASON (e-format only). You can see I have Christmas baking on my mind, so tell me, what’s the one holiday treat you can’t live without? The lovely ladies of Seductive Musings will draw the name of a one lucky winner, and I will send your copy electronically this evening!

Wishing each and every one of you all the joys and pleasures of the season!

Lecia

On the first day of Christmas:

Lady Miranda Archer accepts a marriage proposal

On the first day of Christmas and 15 minutes:

Miranda realizes she’s made a huge mistake.

For the next 12 days:

Miranda must find a way out of her engagement, which is harder than it looks, especially when her fiancé is pompous, mean, and desperate for her family’s jewels… and convince her true love that all she wants for Christmas is him...

Read Ch. 1

Thanks Lecia for being my guest today and for sharing that fun recipe! Having already had the pleasure of reading All the Pleasures of the Season I have to say that her recipe for love is an apt and delicious description :)

If you'd like to learn more about Lecia Cornwall and the books she writes you can find her at her website www.leciacornwall.com, blog, Facebook and Twitter. Her new full length novel The Price of Temptation is scheduled to be released next week on December 27th. Gifting us with two stories in one month? That's what I call getting into the Christmas spirit!

To celebrate the release of All the Pleasures of the Season, Lecia is giving away a digital copy of the book to one Musings follower, and your comment will also enter you to win a $25 Amazon GC to a randomly drawn commenter from the virtual tour! Here's how you can enter to win:

Ways to earn entries:

Mandatory: Answer the question Lecia asked readers in her post and please leave a meaningful comment or question for her regarding books.(good for 1 entry)

How to enter:

Leave a comment at each stop on the blog tour to earn additional entries for the $25 Amazon GC. Your comment at Seductive Musings also enters you to win a digital copy of All the Pleasures of the Season to be given away to one Musings commenter.

Rules and disclaimers:

The winner(s) for the $25 Amazon GC will be selected randomly from among all of the comments of the blog tour by either the author or by Goddess Fish Promotions who will also be responsible for contacting the winner(s).
The winner for the digital copy of the book will be selected randomly from among all of the comments at Seductive Musings on 12/21/11.
Seductive Musings is not responsible for prizes that are not honored, distributed in a timely manner, lost, stolen, or damaged during transit
All giveaways are subject to change/cancellation without prior written notice

Good Luck!

Monday's Muse

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

This week's Muse is dedicated to all of you! My loyal and faithful followers & friends who visit, share your thoughts, and make all the time it takes to have a blog worth it. That's why I selected this week's Muse just for you and your viewing pleasure. Yummy, huh?

Christmas is fast approaching and I know a lot of you will be busy preparing and celebrating all of this week and may not have a lot of time to read the blog. If you are traveling to visit loved ones and friends I hope you arrive safely and have a wonderful time! If you are staying at home, like me, I hope you take a few minutes to truly enjoy all of the blessings in your life, because everyone has at least one...and if you have a hard time thinking of one don't forget my gift to you, your Muse :)

I'll be here sporadically this week since Little Love is not in school this week (which is when I do most of my blogging). We'll be busy making a Barbie Gingerbread House, lots and lots of arts and crafts...and wrapping a gifts, which she swears she'll keep a secret, then at the first opportunity gives hints like it starts with "P" and end in "jamas". Yeah, it's exasperating and funny at the same time :)

She's 5, and this year Christmas is magical to her, which makes it that more special for me. And while I may not have found the love of my life...yet, I am surrounded by so much love in my life that I considered myself almost embarrassingly blessed. Happy Holidays!

This week at Seductive Musings:

Tuesday: I'll have some winners from the "gift" giveaways that were from last week. I hope to have at least one or two more this week so look for them. I may also have a review for you, but again it will depend on how much free time I can find :) Little Love demands all of my attention, and yeah I'm a sucker and can't say no :)
Wednesday: Historical Romance author Lecia Cornwall will be my guest to celebrate her new Avon Impulse title, All The Pleasures of the Season, as well as her new full length novel The Price of Temptation which releases next week.
Thursday-Friday: If I make it here it will be to post reviews, but I may be constructing gingerbread houses and baking cookies...hopefully not burning myself in the process.
Tempting Trailer: This week's Tempting Trailer is for Emily March's upcoming novel, Lover's Leap. I've not read this author before, have you? Is the Eternity Springs series similar to Robyn Carr's Virgin River series?

Finally, I'd like to congratulate all of the authors will new releases this week!

Friday Fun: We're Talking Covers

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

Last week Seductive Reviewer DD sent me a link to this video titled "The Making of a Romance Novel Cover" featuring the creative director Kristine Mills-Noble from Kensington Publishing (think Brava and Aphrodisia...) from a recent Time Magazine article. Thanks DD! (you might have to give it a few seconds to fully load)

After watching that video I had several thoughts.

How can I get the job of the spritzer woman...it's a tough job but someone has to do it right :)
I need to send Ms. Mills-Noble a Christmas card to thank her for the covers she gives us :)
And who will be the new "Fabio" from the 2000's? Ya know the one you look back on and think "Egads" did I really find that attractive? (Not that I was ever into Fabio, although I wasn't reading romance at that point in my life either)
Must get to the library and check out the December 5th issue of Time to read the interview...and check out any pics while I'm at it ;)

I love love love these types of behinds the scenes videos. I have another Thursday's Thoughts coming up about this, but that is a whole 'nother post. So tell me who you think the new "Fabio" is/will be?

And just for fun I searched out the covers that the model in the video might be gracing, and found the cover for Burning Up by Anne Marsh which will be released fall of 2012. I have to say, after seeing the images in the video I'm kinda disappointed in the actual cover. What do you think? The series sounds interesting though, "Smoke Jumpers".

WHERE THERE’S SMOKE…

For Jack Donovan, smoke jumping is a way of life. He lives for the adrenaline rush—the thrill of flying over the burning California hills, the intensity of diving straight into the inferno, the glory of taming the forces of nature. Love is a distant ember compared to the feeling he gets fighting fires—until an emergency call from his hometown brings him face to face with the one woman he can’t forget …

THERE’S FIRE

Lily never got over the handsome rogue who once kissed her senseless—and then left. She vowed she was done with love ’em-and-leave ’em men and small town life. Until a series of malicious fires set by a stalker has her running home to hide. Now, their summer is heating up as Jack fights to save her from the stalker’s fiery threats and to convince her to give the passion between them a second chance.

While I was prowling the upcoming releases I also happened across the newest cover in Elizabeth Amber's Lords of Satyr series, SEVIN...and it's positively, deliciously sinful!

Lord Sevin Satyr indulges freely in the delights of the flesh within his infamous Salone di Passione, the talk of 1880s Rome. Surely the Humans who would deny his kind their pleasures can be persuaded to share them in a new Salone he plans just for them—above all, the beautiful Alexa Patrizzi. Fiery and spirited, she is made for sin…

Sevin’s younger brother Lucien possesses powers he cannot control. Held in the Roman catacombs as a sex slave until he was eighteen, he finds refuge in the ElseWorld—and sexual healing in the arms of Natalia, a maenad, who thinks Luc too beautiful, too young for her. But when his mirrored eyes heat to molten silver at her touch, she can only love him more…

Excerpt

Finally on this Friday I thought I would share the ebooks I either purchased or were FREE that I recently downloaded. What did you get?

I'll try to be back later today with a long overdue review, and possibly another gift :)

Thursday's Thoughts: What Should Be #1 on Your Christmas Wishlist...

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

...that is if you don't already own one. An e-reader. Doesn't really matter which one you prefer, although after reading several comments by others it seems like some books are slower to become available via the Barnes and Noble Nook than other outlets.

Why do you say this, you may ask? Well, it's not only because they are one of the best things since sliced bread (even though I think they are) it's because the Romance writing community & Publishers' knee jerk reactions are changing faster than most can keep up with. One, thing that isn't going away any time soon though is e-books whether you like it or not. Sometimes you have to change with the times. So if you are book lover who loves to hold the paper I suggest you just buy a cover like this one to the right and suck it up :) Embrace it. Love it. Or, just get used to it :)

Am I taking a harsh stand? No, and I'll give you some of my reasons why.

It seems like publishers are trying to slow down the trend towards e-books, not only with:

the dreaded DRM,
but also with similar if not higher pricing on ebooks than the print version.
removing their digital titles from lending libraries
And recently I've noticed some publishers are now releasing some e-books days if not at least a week after the print version is available in stores and online. For instance many of Jill Shalvis' fans were upset that they couldn't get Head Over Heels which was recently made available in print on November 22nd, but it wasn't until December 1st that the e-book was made available. GRRR...

Has that stopped people from buying digital books in triple digit growths? No.

The tactics that Publishers are taking to try and slow down the trend will fail, and fail big time. They obviously are more concerned with their business model and bottom line than they are about the consumer that is purchasing their products. The individuals who are going to pay, more than figuratively, are You and Me my friends. You and me. Doesn't that just suck! The result of their efforts will have only one outcome, angry readers who couldn't get the book when they wanted to read it. In a world that is used to almost immediate gratification that is a HUGE mistake. Stupid. Publishers have become the Scrooge of Christmas while Readers are the poor crippled little Tiny Tim from Dickens' A Christmas Carol. Let's just hope they realize how detrimental their actions are before it is too late. LOL, they may even be visited by ghosts of authors past, present, and future ;) Keep reading you'll understand why in just a bit...

And yes, I strongly believe that there will be a point where it will be too late for them, and it may be sooner than they realize. Not because of their stupid actions to slow down the e-book trend, but because Authors are embracing digital publishing like it's their Christmas goose and it's the first bit of meat they've seen in forever. And why shouldn't they?

Over the past few months I've seen many authors that I read who have been traditionally published decide to self publish their future works for a variety of reasons including a larger share of the profits. Most recently I've seen authors Lila DiPasqua, Beverley Kendall, Ashley March, Shiloh Walker, Jackie Barbosa, and Bella Andre to name just a very few...announce their self publishing intents. It seems like the list keeps growing every week. And honestly I can't say that I blame them, especially when you take into account Courtney Milan's success with Unlocked which became a NYT bestseller. While it may be more work, authors can have greater control, and hopefully a bigger piece of the ~~pie~~...er, goose. Win, win, win.

I want talented authors to earn a MORE than decent living from their writing, really I do, but I also have some fears from a reader's perspective. Some of them are:

Will the quality of the writing continue to be what I've come to expect? Sadly, I've already experienced that not to be the case. A writer may employ editors, and have beta readers but it all comes down to honesty in feedback, and experience in the professionals that they hire. Only time will tell.
How many author newsletters must I subscribe to in order to find out about the new releases? As far as I can tell there is no one resource that let's you know what upcoming releases for self published books there may be, or when the book is actually released....except for the author newsletter, facebook, blog...UGH! For a person who likes to scan upcoming releases using a few of my favorite sites this is a big downfall to self-publishing. And frankly I can't handle any more emails, blogs, facebooks, twitter...whatever.
I'm a big, big library user. My library is great and is ranked as one of the top 100. For the size of the city I live in, it's amazing. And they always purchase the books I request them to :) While my library now offers digital e-book lending how long will it take for them to have self published books available for lending? My guess, not any time soon because they like to have reviews from trusted sources before they will buy a book for lending. Which may mean that I will no longer be able to read all of the authors that I love if too many of them decide to self publish. Ya know, because that thing called a budget....can only go so far :( I've found so many authors that I now religiously buy and read because of the library, and it makes me somewhat sad that in the near future that could end...even if it is only temporary.
Then we have to take into account that e-books will be available before a print version (in some cases), if there is ever a print version made available. That in and of itself is the biggest reason why a digital e-reader should be your #1 item on your wishlist. Because otherwise you may not be able to read the books you want...unless you want to read on your computer :( Not fun.

My final thoughts, all of this also makes me wonder about the quality of books overall. Not only self published books, but also books published by the biggies. Consider this, if some of the most talented authors decide to go it alone (as it seems to be happening), what will be left for NY to publish? Will it mean that NY published books will become mediocre as they try to replace the authors that they lost to self publishing? That would be the kiss of death for NY.

I'm sure hoping there is enough up and coming talent that that hopefully won't be the case...but it does make one wonder. Despite the biggies tactics to slow down digital books, I don't want to see them fail because I do think they have value...or at least used to. Things have changed dramatically in just one year. What will next year bring?

So what are your thoughts, and take on all of this? I'd love to know what you think, even if you do have a different take on all of this. Personally, I'm ok with however I get my romance fix, print, e-book, or whatever else may be invented in the future as long as in the end I'm the biggest winner by getting great romance reads. I may lament the loss of print books in the future, but then again I don't miss VHS tapes :) E-reader. Get thee an e-reader.

But wait there's more...LOL. If you read the entire post you deserve a surprise/gift/medal. I have a coupon code from Sourcebooks for one lucky Musings follower that will allow you to download one e-book from their site for FREE. But you gotta leave a comment :) I'll pick a winner....sometime within the next few days. Oh, and supposedly they for some reason don't support international readers yet :( So I guess it's US only.

Guest Author & Giveaway: Christine Young featuring Highland Honor

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

You all know I have a thing for Highlanders :) But most especially historical romances with English heroines and Scottish heroes...I can't help but think of...you guessed it Jamie and Claire, but also other beloved stories by Julie Garwood, Hannah Howell, and Bertrice Small to name just a few of my favorites. So when I ran across Highland Honor my interest was peaked. I can't wait to learn more, join me won't you? Please welcome Christine Young!

Which is stronger for a Highlander...Honor or Revenge?

Honor is the stronger characteristic, at least for Colin "Hawke" MacPherson. Revenge can take over a man's life and make him less than whole. So many decisions in life demand that integrity rules the choices we make. A man cannot reach conclusions and judgments without honor.

“Honor is like an island, rugged and without a beach; once we have left it, we can never return.”
Boileau, Nicholas

In Highland Honor, Hawke is forced to choose between honor and revenge. As he falls in love with Callie, this becomes no choice at all. He easily chooses honor over revenge. One cannot seek vengeance from an innocent. Although Hawke believes it was Callie's father who wronged his family, he cannot blame Callie. Yet Callie is convinced her father was also betrayed that eventful day when the MacPherson was convicted of treason against the English King and sentence to death. Together Callie and Hawke seek the truth and discover more than they ever bargained for.

Willfully stubborn, innocently courageous, Callie Whitcomb braves a journey through the treacherous highlands to the MacPherson castle. Callie flees from an unwanted marriage as well as her ruthless half brother. Naively she believes Colin MacPherson, the head of the clan, is loyal to her father and will give her sanctuary, protecting her from the vile plans that have been made for her.

As hard and as unyielding as the winter storms that sweep through the countryside, Colin is irresistibly drawn to the impetuous beauty who has magically appeared on his doorsteps. Despite his vows of revenge against her father, she stirs his passion as well as his sense of justice...but to love her would violate all his vows of revenge.

Here's a special excerpt for your reading enjoyment:

Scotland November 1512

A heavy frost sat on the frozen earth, and a full moon shone clearly between the heavy clouds dotting the sky. Lady Callie Whitcomb looked over her shoulder as she raced through the deepening gloom toward the lighted tavern ahead. Every shadow, every mournful sigh of the wind sweeping through the trees, every chilling animal sound filled her with terror. Fear for her life drove her to put all thoughts of danger aside. He would follow her, find her, and drag her home.

Home.

"Don't think of that now," she reminded herself fiercely, even while tears stung in the back of her throat and fear made her limbs tremble. "Don't ye dare think of home. It no longer exists." Nothing and no on could coax her back or make her believe there was naught but terror in the home where she'd been born.

"I will never marry Lord Huntington. Never!" she whispered fiercely, the chill night air solemnly echoing her words.

Her stepbrother, Archibald Covington III, made sure she could never return.

"There ye be, lass! I've been waiting for ye."

The voice rose from nowhere and surprised her. Her heart froze, lurched, then began an erratic beat, while raw nerves snapped, sending a myriad of sensations racing down her spine.

"Archibald--" she whispered, panic sweeping through her. "He's found me." All she could hear was the pounding of her own blood in her ears.

Thank you Christine for sharing Highland Honor with us today! If you'd like to learn more about author Christine Young and the books she writes you can find her at her Author blog, & at Rogues Angels.

In honor of the Highland Honor blog tour, Christine is going to giveaway a $50 Amazon gift card to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour, so the more you comment the better your chances of winning, and she is also giving away a Clan MacPherson book mark to one Musings commenter.

Review: Cowboy Casanova by Lorelei James

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:02:00 +0000

Title: Cowboy Casanova*
Author: Lorelei James
Series: Rough Riders series, Book 12
Genre: Contemporary Western Erotic Romance
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Format: E Book
Date/Year: December 2011
Reviewed by: DD

*This book was purchased by the reviewer for her own reading enjoyment.

Summary from the publisher:

His rough touch makes her lose control...

In Sundance, Wyoming, you can’t throw a boot without hitting a McKay cowboy, so Ben McKay is used to fading into the background. Except on weekends, when he’s Bennett, imposing Dom at The Rawhide Club, surrounded by a bevy of female subs eager for the attention of his long…whip.

As for the curvy brunette eying him from across the room? He’ll eat his Stetson if she's the experienced Domme she claims to be. Bennett offers her a deal—he’ll let her call the shots for one night. But the next night he gets to prove to her how freeing it'll be when he takes the reins.

Ainsley Hamilton is amazed by how well Bennett read her every secret yearning during that one explosive weekend—and she's stunned when they come face to face in their everyday lives as rancher and new bank president. Now Ben’s urging her to explore her submissive side outside the club, and there’s something in his commanding gaze that makes it too easy to let him take control—of her desires and her pleasure.

Can Ben help Ainsley overcome her fear that a relationship built on dark sexual appetites won’t survive the light of day?

Product Warnings:
This book contains a lot of kinky sex. No, seriously, there's A LOT of kinky cowboy sex in this Rough Riders installment. You've been warned.

My Musings:

My, my, my. What does one say about Miss Lorelei James that hasn’t already been said? She is a Goddess among us mortal women. But I swear, if she’s actually ever met a man like Bennett McKay (not seen, not spotted from afar, but conversed with) in the real world, I’ll just eat my brassiere right this second. I mean I know she lives in some kind of Dakota Wilderness or something, but I fail to think these men exist.

As has been said many times, James is an author that is so good you put down whatever you are reading. Reading a Paranormal Shape Shifting Historical Erotic Steampunk What the F*^# Novella? Ma’am, step away from that book. Put it down. Making the Bed? Please. Cleaning? Come On. Working? Nope. Sleep? I don’t think so. Drop whatever you’re doing; another installment of the Rough Riders is out…WoooooHooooo!!!

Let’s talk about Bennett McKay. Rancher? Check. Dominant? Check Check. Hot? Checkity Check Check. In short, if there ever was a fantasy man to make us desperate housewives and established career women faint from the vapors, it is this particular hero. The reason I love Bennett is because he is the epitome of a Gentleman. He does not kiss and tell. He keeps his private life fiercely private. And he is unapologetic for what he wants and needs. He loves his mother. He cares about his family and neighbors. He doesn’t want to hurt anyone with the knowledge of what he really is, but at the same time knows it’s no one’s business. With all this confidence however, he has the vulnerability that makes him completely irresistible to a woman. Being a middle child, Bennett has felt lost in the shuffle of the overpopulated McKay family. Yes he is rooted in reality and knows his own proclivities, but he has enough of a conscience to feel a modicum of shame about his preferred lifestyle. His family has no idea, but in a way it seems as though he is trying to get caught. He wants to unload his burdens but cannot trust anyone fully. Like he is crying out for an intervention, but no one is smart enough or perceptive enough to interpret his comments….

Ben Brushed Bongo with long strokes. “Trouble in Paradise? Has Libby been hanging out at Ziggy’s bar again?”

“Fuck off. No, a couple of the new, single teachers have asked her about you.”

“Teachers? Definitely not my type”

“Why not”

He patted Bongo’s withers. “I have a hard time believing a teacher would make a good student.”

“What the hell is that supposed to mean”

Thinking out loud always got him in trouble. “Nothin.”

Ainsley Hamilton has escaped a bad marriage where she was make to feel dirty and sordid because she wanted a little something more in the bedroom. She is the President of the new bank in town, so to make matters worse she is in an extremely male dominated conservative career. She has no outlet. She is unsure about how to face or handle her intimate life since the ruination of her marriage. She doesn’t want to risk her fragile standing in a new community that is small and judgmental. So her friend sets her up with a guest invitation at the Rawhide Club. The problem? Ainsley thinks she’s a Domme, and is basically “advertising” herself in the club as such. Is she? Well...that’s debatable. She is a small fish swimming in an ocean of Phiranas. Bennett is a master (pardon the pun) at observation and body language. He spots Ainsley and knows immediately that she is just full of it. However, he is intrigued by her beauty and confused by the mixed signals. And as the story usually goes, and the rest is romance history.

I can say with certainty that this is my favorite Lorelei James book so far. And there is a lot of them so that’s saying a lot. Ainsley is not my favorite heroine, but I adore her with Bennett. They compliment each other so well. I cried sometimes for both her and Ben. They are both wounded deeply, and truly, they are the bandages for each other’s souls. Yes, they practice BDSM elements. But for the first time I think, it wasn’t too much for me and it also seemed, well, sort of normal. Ainsley was a little past experimenting, and Bennett was open minded enough to not let his Dom persona rule him to a degree that is disturbing. I love that. They met in the middle and it is glorious. My problem with books with this Dom/sub subject matter is that one bad line that is over the top and I’m done. James handled this with finesse and not one time did I roll my eyes.

The sex scenes are truly some of the best and most scorching that I’ve read. They are amazingly written and intricate. I know however it is all about what appeals to you. I can’t presume to say what all women like or want in their romance novel, but I like an edge that isn’t so out there that it can’t happen. I felt like the story was realistic (if there really is a likeness of Bennett McKay-see above. LOL), and what a lucky woman it can happen to. We also read a lot about ranching business and family dynamic in this novel. In my opinion (I’m not a rancher and I don’t live in Wyoming but anyhoo) it is spot on. Without knowing what is going on with both Ben’s and Ainsley’s careers they would be one-dimensional. Without knowing how Ben becomes the way he is, I think both he AND Ainsley would have fallen flat.

When it comes down to it, the major reason why this book appealed to me is although Bennett is a dominant, he is not so caught up in a “lifestyle” that he can’t see past his role in everyday life and his relationship. He takes a look at his feeling and actions and after the usual denial and conflict, he wants in his heart to grab on to the one he is destined for. I think this fact surprises him. He is level headed for the most part. Quick to anger but not rash in reaction, that is until his heart is in tangles. And really, although some of us won’t admit it, isn’t sacrifice the grandest gesture a man can make? To give up something freely and without resentment so his mate will be happy? Don’t we all want him to finally surrender to love because of you and only you, his one true love? Isn’t this the John Cusak radio moment that we all dream about? I think so.

Ratings:

Overall: 4.99 Stars. (Darn that Lorelei James for making us think Bennett could be real.. I’m taking away a tenth just for that. )

Sensuality Level: 5.00 (Off the charts hot.)

Other Reviews:

Under The Covers (5 feathers? ...hurricanes...not sure what they are)
Happily Ever After (4.0 stars)
The Good, The Bad and The Unread (A)

psst...I loved it just about as much as DD did, and totally agree with her taking off a bit for Ms. James making us wish that Ben was real ;)

Have you read Lorelei James before? If not tell me what has held you back. (because if you read this blog and haven't read her yet then you are really missing out!), If you are thinking about giving her books a try, what aspect of DD's review intrigued you? I have either Long Hard Ride (RR #1), or Cowboy Casanova (RR #12) to lend a Musings follower that is new to this author that I am willing to loan via Kindle so that we can be addicted to Ms. James' brand of romance together :) Choose book 1 if you like to read a series from the start, or if you like the sound of book 12 and want to start with this one choose Ben...really you can't go wrong! ~Booklover

Winners: Head Over Heels & Victoria Alexander books

noreply@blogger.com (Booklover1335) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:01:00 +0000

To celebrate the release of the third book in the Lucky Harbor series, Head Over Heels, Jill's publisher Forever Romance would like to giveaway a print copy of the book to these three lucky Musings followers...

cheryl c

Kathleen O

In honor of Joan Swan's upcoming release of her debut novel, FEVER, and her Journey of a Debut Author Blog Tour, Joan is giving away the following books by Victoria Alexander to these very lucky Musings followers:

Winners of THE PERFECT MISTRESS are...

The_Book_Queen

Artemis

marybelle

The winner of the gorgeous hardcover of HIS MISTRESS BY CHRISTMAS is...

booklover0226

And last, but not least the coveted ARC of MY WICKED LITTLE LIES goes to...

DL Thomas

If however, you've been lucky enough to have already won these book(s) in another giveaway please let me know so that alternate winner(s) can be selected. The winners will have until Thursday December 15th to contact me with your mailing address, otherwise alternate winner(s) will be selected.