Got Romance Author Interviews

Welcome DC Juris with a free holiday read!

2011-12-23T19:42:00.000-05:00

"A Torottun Christmas"

Jinsu eased out of bed and tiptoed down the hall to Tristan's art room, where Kelan already waited. He peered over his brother's shoulder at one of Tristan's drawings. "He's so homesick. What are we going to do?"

Kelan shrugged. "Give him a piece of home, obviously." He pulled one of the sketches down. "Although I'm not sure where we will find…what did he call this?"

"A Chris Mass Tree." Jinsu frowned. Tristan had said the things were grown at farms, but the one he had drawn seemed to look like any ordinary tree. "Perhaps we can cut one from the forest?
"We'll have to. I don't know what to do about lights, though." Kelan held the paper closer for a better look. "These are on some kind of rope."

"Tristan called them strings. What about the orbs we hang for night festivals?"

"Those are awfully large." Kelan shook his head.

Jinsu took the paper from Kelan and studied it. His twin had a point; the orbs would never fit on a tree. They needed something just like them, only miniature. His eyes widened. "I have an idea! What about Pelldor? He can make tiny lights."

"The toy maker?" Kelan grinned. "That's perfect! He can probably even make the decorations. They're small like toys, after all."

"If you can keep Tristan occupied tomorrow, I can get everything set up." Jinsu's heart skipped a beat at the though they'd be able to pull this off for their mutual lover.

"What will you tell Pelldor, though? He can't know about Tristan's world," Kelan warned.

"Of course not." Jinsu frowned again. What would he tell the old toy maker? "I'll tell him…I'll tell him it's for a friend's daughter to decorate her room."

Kelan patted him on the shoulder. "Good thinking! We'd best get back to bed. If he wakes up without us, he'll be suspicious."

Jinsu carefully replaced the drawing in the exact same spot Tristan had put it, and followed his brother back to bed, though he knew he'd barely be able to sleep.

***

Keeping Tristan out of the house the next day proved nearly impossible, but Kelan somehow managed to pull it off. They returned that evening, Kelan leading the way inside.

Tristan gasped as Kelan stepped aside. "What…?"

Jinsu stood beside the tree, grinning from ear to ear. Pelldor had outdone himself. From the soft glow of the dozens of tiny orbs, to the intricately detailed ornaments, the tree certainly resembled the ones in Tristan's drawings.

Tristan crossed the room, mouth open, eyes wide and brimming with moisture. He circled the tree again and again, shaking his head. "I can't believe you two did this," he murmured.

"Why not?" Kelan spoke up. He moved to stand beside Jinsu and slid an arm around his twin. "You deserve a taste of home, after all you've given up for us."

"Is it a good Chris Mass present?" Jinsu asked.

Tristan faced them; tears flowing freely down his cheeks. "It's the best Christmas present ever."

Kelan took Jinsu's hand and led him over to the tree. They pulled Tristan into a hug, Kelan had to bite back his own tears at the strength of Tristan's grip, and how Tristan trembled. He stroked a hand through Tristan's hair and kissed Tristan's neck. "Happy Chris Mass, love."

Tristan raised his head and kissed Kelan, then Jinsu and back to Kelan, then Jinsu again. "I don't know what to say," he whispered.

Jinsu smiled and fitted his arms around Tristan's waist. "You don't have to say anything. Just enjoy it."

"It"—Kelan reached down and palmed Tristan's cock through his pants—"and perhaps us."

Tristan grinned and pulled them both close. "I think we have some packages to unwrap!"

***

Tristan and his alien lovers, twins Jinsu and Kelan, are from The Sky People Trilogy, which includes "Dream Come True", "The Door Under the Bridge", and "Follow His Heart."

"Dream Come True" blurb/buy link:

Driven by dreams of his soul mate, Tristan, Jinsu steps through the portal to Earth, leaving all he has ever known behind. Little does he know that Tristan has had dreams too, but unlike Jinsu, Tristan doesn't believe in them. When they meet, will they both discover that dreams really can come true?

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-dreamcometrue-448535-143.html

"The Door Under the Bridge" blurb/buy link:

Tristan and Jinsu are back! It's now seven months into their fairy-tale romance, and Tristan and Jinsu couldn't be happier. But when Jinsu falls ill with a mysterious, lingering condition, everything changes. Jinsu's magic is dying and taking him with it. Suddenly the couple's desire to find a way back to Jinsu's home world is more than just a dream--it's a necessity. With Jinsu's time quickly running out, Tristan is forced to seek help from someone he'd hoped to never, ever lay eyes on again.

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thedoorunderthebridge-501236-143.html

"Follow His Heart" blurb/buy link:

In the conclusion to The Sky People Trilogy, Tristan awakens on Torottu, but the portal wasn't meant for humans, and he's been near death since his arrival almost ten months ago. That's okay, though, because now that he's awake, he and Jinsu can start their life together. The problem? Jinsu has no idea who Tristan is--the return trip through the portal erased his memory of Earth, of their relationship, of Tristan himself. Winning Jinsu's heart again won't be easy, especially if Kelan, Jinsu's twin, has anything to say about it. Kelan loves Jinsu, too, and he won't be put aside for Tristan. Not again. Tristan knows his only chance for happiness--and the only chance for Jinsu and Kelan--is to follow his heart.

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-followhisheart-523916-143.html

And a little something extra:
Caliph's Favorite Holiday Memory

We shifters don't celebrate Christmas as you humans know it—instead, we celebrate Alms. Alms has no religious connotation, it's simply a time of year when those who have share with those who don't. My most treasured memory of Alms is the first one I spent with my kitten, Mateo, and our son, Jonus. Mateo and I visited the local shops and vendors for gifts for Jonus and each other. I loved the simple pleasure of sharing such a mundane thing with Mateo.

We gave Jonus a new bow and arrow, and his very first wooden practice sword. Mateo and I exchanged rings. I remember how my hands shook as I slid Mateo's on, how he held his hand up to the window to see the light glinting off the band, and how he cried happy tears.

We roasted and carved a bruta pig Jonus had managed to catch the day before—his first one!—and afterward, I watched as Mateo taught Jonus how to fight with his sword in the middle of our sitting room. We ended the day around a crackling fire in the hearth; Mateo lounging in my arms while we listened to Jonus read us a story he'd written. I suppose it sounds very simple by usual standards, but being with my kitten and my son, finally, as a family, was the most incredible gift I could've received.

The Knight Before Christmas - Cassea Major

2011-12-21T12:49:00.000-05:00

A Good Knight!

By Casea Major

Marianne Caldwell put the finishing touches on the tree. Not that the five-foot shrubbery needed any extra. The little thing was decked out with five hundred lights, six-dozen ornaments and twenty-five feet of the finest silver garland sold at Macy's. This tree was pimped to the high heavens. She breathed in the fresh evergreen scent as she tied on the small, red, velvet bows, praying for everything to be perfect.

Mare had never waited until Christmas Eve to put a tree up before. She'd never spent Christmas away from her family, either. Nor had she ever been wildly, madly, passionately in love with anyone. Until now. It seemed this was a year of firsts.

Her first one-night stand had turned into her first experience of "shacking up." Dad had taken a little bit of backlash from his conservative Baptist congregation over that one. But in the end, Robert had won them over. Or maybe Michael had. He was the most precious 5-year-old that had ever existed. It was hard not to love him…or his father.

She smiled, admiring her handy work. The little guy would be surprised when he came back from his grandparents. She glanced at her watch. Hopefully her big guy would be just as surprised. Her heart fluttered at the thought of his sapphire eyes and dark, wavy hair. Fifteen minutes and his shift at the station would be over. They would spend their first Christmas together. Maybe tonight would be the night she'd waited for. She hoped so.

Robert was the man of her dreams. She giggled. When he actually kept his hands to himself and let her dream. She'd never met a man with such insatiable…appetites yet so attentive and caring. But something was missing. He loved her, she was pretty sure. Everything he did made her believe it was true, but he'd never spoken the words outright. And now she was beginning to feel as if maybe she'd been kidding herself. She'd actually said the three little words twice during lovemaking. But he'd not responded in kind, and the rejection was driving a wedge in her heart.

She shook her head to rid herself of the horrid thought. This holiday was going to be perfect. That's why she'd decided on the tree last minute. Robert said he didn't want one, but it wouldn't be the same without it.

Her timer buzzed. The smell of the toasted sugar and creamy butter filled the Brooklyn apartment. She hurried to the kitchen at the same time keys jingled and the front door opened.

"Yo, babe. I'm home. Are ya decent?"

She hollered back, "Define decent. I'm in the kitchen."

Giving him a quick glance over her shoulder, she smiled as she placed the cookies on the cooling rack.

He strolled in and sidled up behind her. "Damn, that looks good." He rested his chin on her head and slipped his muscular arms around her waist. "And the cookies, too."

She laughed and leaned back against his broad chest. Even though his shifts were only twenty-four hours, being without him for a full day was like living without a limb—doable but a struggle. Her chest tightened. "I missed you." Though those weren't the words she wanted to tell him. She held her breath waiting for him to respond.

He spun her around. "I missed you, too, Dallas."

Closing her eyes, she tried not to let the disappointment show in her face. Though they'd been living together since October when she'd transferred from Dallas to New York with her company, she'd moved in with the understanding that it wouldn't be permanent. But the truth was, she didn’t want to go anywhere, and she wasn't looking very hard. However, if he didn't make a move soon she would feel forced to leave.

He brushed her nose with his and softly kissed her lips. God, when he did that her legs turned to jelly every time, and she forgot any reason she should be displeased with him. His warm mouth opened over hers, and he lazily caressed her lips. His hand slid under the elastic waistband of her yoga pants to trail electric desire across her behind. Digging his fingers into her flesh he pulled her flush against him, his arousal evident at her hip. Her body responded without thought. She laced her arms around his neck and held him tightly.

He pulled from the kiss and whispered, "Where's Michael?"

She breathlessly answered, "Still with his grandparents."

His breathing sped. He swept her up and carried her to the living room, laying her on the sectional. She shucked off her bottoms as he unbuttoned his jeans. God, he was gorgeous, and she would never get enough. The juncture between her legs throbbed, and her private placed readied to receive him. He unzipped the loose fitting denim and began to push them to his knees but stopped suddenly. His face clouded.

Mare lifted and propped her body up with her elbows. "Honey, what's wrong?"

His face was so strange—a mix of so many emotions she couldn't catalogue them all. His head turned toward the corner and snapped back to her, revealing only one emotion—anger. "What the fuck is that?" He raised his hand toward the tree.

Her heart jumped up in her throat. A shiver slithered across her shoulders and her voice squeaked out like a meek mouse. "A Christmas tree."

He glared at her. "I told you I didn't want a fucking tree, Marianne."

She sucked in a breath. He'd used her given name. Not good. She swallowed the lump in her throat and tried to keep her voice from cracking again. "I know, but I just thought it'd be nice."

"You just never fucking listen, do you? You act like this is your house, and you do anything you goddamn please." He jerked the zipper up on his pants and paced in front of her. "And I'm fucking sick of it."

She scrambled to find her clothes. Tears welled in her eyes, and chills covered her from scalp to toenails. So many emotions swirled around in her mind she couldn't lay claim to any single one. Hurt, shame, fear. Had she overstepped her boundaries? She hadn't realized his severe aversion to Douglas Fir trees. Maybe it was just an aversion to her.

Was he just being nice by letting her stay with him? He was getting lots of sex. Clearly, he didn't think this a long term thing. And now he was sick of her.

She blinked back the flood and tried to gather herself. What should she do? Afraid to meet his gaze, she watched his feet pace back and forth in front of the tree. His hands fisted and flexed.

Think, Marianne. Why is he acting like this? All the horrible self-doubt came crashing in, and the desire to run overwhelmed her. She evened her breathing, but the tears trailed down her cheeks. She'd take down the tree and go. Her heart ripped in two at the thought, but there was nothing to be done about it.

She ran to the bedroom, grabbed a box of Kleenex, and got the storage bin she'd bought. Robert sat on the couch, head in hands. He didn't look up when she came in. She slowly began to remove the bows and place them in a storage bag. With each piece she took off, her heart broke a little more. Sharp pains of what might have been stabbed through her mind.

The delicate glass ornaments felt cold and light in her hand, and the glitter left a residue on her fingers which sparkled like magic in the twinkling colored lights. This was how her mom decorated a tree – with every color. You can never have too many lights, she'd always said. Mare had never wished for home more desperately in her life.

A sharp rap on the door and voices outside startled her. Robert never looked at her but strode to the door. She continued to pull ornaments from the tree and wrap them in tissue, placing them carefully in the bin.

After a few brief words at the door, Michael came tearing into the room. Even through her tears she couldn't help but smile when the little boy gasped. "Cool, Daddy. A tree for me?"

Before Robert could answer, Michael jetted around the circumference, taking in every light and ornament. "Look a Shrek! And a Woody, Daddy."

Robert came up behind Michael. "Son—"

Mare stopped to watch, wondering how he was going to explain why they couldn't keep it, because she couldn't understand it herself.

Michael grabbed Robert's hand. "Daddy, you're helping Marmie decorate the tree for me?"

Marianne gasped. He'd never called her that before. She shot her apprehensive gaze to Robert, whose face had drained of all color.

He blinked. "What did you call her?"

The sweet angel smiled and with his other hand took her hand. "She's my Marmie." His lilting matter-of-fact tone shattered her heart, and she started to sob.

"Jesus." Robert's eyes filled with tears, and he pulled her to his chest. "Baby, stop now. Shhh. I'm so sorry…I'm so sorry." He pushed the hair out of her eyes. "Don't cry. It's gonna be okay."

They spent the next two hours putting the tree back together, decorating Christmas cookies, and watching Christmas shows until Michael fell asleep. Robert carried him to his bed while she cleaned up the kitchen. Nothing had been resolved other than the Christmas tree. And now seemed as good a time as any to make the break that appeared inevitable.

She dried her hands on a cup towel and turned off the light. The living room was dark except the twinkle of the tree. Robert sat in the corner of the sectional watching the lights flicker. She sat a distance away, careful not to touch him.

The lump formed in her throat again and began to throb. She stared down and laced her fingers, unable to look at him. "I've decided to go back to Dallas. I don't really want to look for a place here by myself. I think my company will let me transfer again. At least I know my old boss will take me back." She took a deep breath. "I wish it could've worked out. But I understand these things don't always. I mean, look at The Bachelor, for God's sake. These types of things don’t typically last, and there's no shame in that. We can go our separate ways…" You're rambling, Mare. Get to the point. She peeked up at him.

He stared at her with eyebrows knitted and a perturbed look on his face. She gulped.

He gestured vaguely with his hand. "You finished?"

Mare nodded.

"Good. Because for starters, you're not going anywhere except right here in my arms." He grabbed her and pulled her into his lap. The warmth of him engulfed her. She hadn't realized how cold and empty she'd felt. "As for you and I not working out, that's crap and you know it. We're great together. You and Michael are the best things in my life, and I'll be damned if I'm gonna let you go." He cupped her chin and gazed straight into her eyes. "I'm sorry I acted like an asshole earlier. You scare me, Marianne. This whole thing scares me. The last time I let a woman in..." His voice broke. He closed his eyes and sighed. "When Victoria died, a piece of me died with her. I haven't had a Christmas tree in my house since then. But you come in and muddle my heart and fuck with my familiar life..." He dropped his hand to his side and stared up at the ceiling. "Jesus Mariann, I love you so much it scares me shitless."

Liquid warmth poured over her. "You do?"

He captured her gaze. "Baby, I've loved you from the minute I laid eyes on you." He pulled out a little black box and handed it to her.

Her heart pounded against her ribs and her had trembled. She opened the lid and a gasp escaped her lips. A two-carat round-brilliant diamond sat in a classic six-pronged platinum setting.

"Marianne, will you marry me?"

"You bet your ass I will." She grasped his face and pressed her lips to his.

He slipped the ring on her finger and gave her a long, luscious kiss.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good Knight!

After signing up for a one-night stand through an exclusive matching agency, hopeless romantic Marianne Caldwell is swept away to a medieval land where she hopes to spend the night with a worthy man of honor.

Unsure of how she got from the Castillo Hotel in Las Vegas to a castle in the English countryside, Mare finds Robert, whose stunning physique and winning smile immediately convince her he's the Robin Hood she's been seeking. But despite his efforts in saving her from a corrupt sheriff, his Jersey Shore accent and coarse ways unravel her romantic visions.

With her fairytale fantasies coming unhinged, Mare must decide if Robert is just a crass car salesman from Brooklyn or the chivalrous knight she's looking for.

Major Love ~~~ Major Romance

Prior to becoming a writer of romantic fiction, Casea Major worked in the legal field for a non-profit dispute resolution company for ten years. She is now a full-time mom to three preschool children with whom she and her husband live happily...most of the time. When she isn't chained to her laptop, she enjoys Cary Grant movies and crocheting.

Website / Facebook / Twitter

Helping Santa by Nicole Zoltack

2011-12-14T10:15:00.000-05:00

“Hey, Mom, what’s up?” Rebecca Williams asked through her blue tooth.
“Just calling to see how you are. Are you sure you want to be all alone for Christmas?”
Rebecca rolled her eyes. “Mom, I’ll be fine.”
“But Christmas is about spending time with loved ones.”
And Rebecca’s list of loved ones had shortened recently. She'd broken up with her boyfriend, Derek, last week. They were better off as just friends. “I’ll stop by on Christmas Eve to give you two your presents. Listen, I’m driving, gotta go. Love you, bye.”
Rebecca pressed the disconnect button and made a left turn, on her way to the mall to buy her parents’ said presents. Up ahead, a car was pulled over to the side, its four-ways on. She had to giggle when she saw the driver was dressed in Santa garb, complete with a beard, although he was far too lean to be a convincing Santa.
She pulled up behind him and parked her car. “Do you need any help?” she asked, even though she doubted she could do anything.
He glanced at her. “Ho ho… hello, Becca.”
His jovial laugh changed into a familiar voice.
“Jason?” Rebecca couldn’t believe it, but there was no mistaking the twinkling blue eyes. Jason Carter had been her high school sweetheart. “I mean, Santa?”
Jason had started to remove his beard but snapped it back into place. “Someone’s trying to get off my naughty list by helping me out.”
She laughed. How long had it been? Once or twice after graduation, at parties, when it had been strained and awkward since she had decided to go to a school across the country. She’d thought about him on and off over the years, and always compared her boyfriends to him. Didn’t all girls do that with their first love?
Rebecca cleared her throat. “Well, first, Santa, it’s Rebecca now. And what’s wrong?”
“I’m waiting for a tow. Got a flat.”
“Santa doesn’t know how to change a tire?”
He grimaced. “If only it was that easy.” He pointed to the frame, which was horribly bent, cutting into the tire, rendering the car undrivable. “The tow should be here any minute.”
“That’s good at least.”
“Yeah, but I have to get to the mall in a fifteen minutes.” He shook his head, and a dark lock of hair peeked out from beneath his white wig. “I don’t know how I’m gonna make it in time.”
“I’ll—”
Just then, the tow truck arrived. The driver, a short, pudgy man who would have made a great looking Santa if not for his dour expression, spoke with Jason for several minutes before hitching his car.
Jason walked over to Rebecca, who leaned against her car. “I’m sorry, I should have told you to leave. I’m fine.”
“Oh really? Is Grumpy gonna give you a ride to the mall?”
He shrugged. “I haven’t asked him yet.”
She snorted. “I don’t think he’ll be willing to. Doesn’t strike me as having the Christmas spirit.”
Jason winced. “The poor kids…” he muttered.
Rebecca’s heart warmed. The Jason she had known had thought all kids were terrors. The few times she had convinced him to help her babysit neighborhood kids had done nothing to change his mind. How else had Jason changed in the past almost ten years?
She smiled. “Santa, where’s your Christmas spirit? Hop in.”
“I don’t want to inconvenience you.”
“It’s not a problem, I was going to the mall myself.”
His grin was barely visible through his bushy white beard. “Great, hold on a sec, let me make sure that everything is squared away with Grumpy.” He winked.
She laughed and watched him walk away. The Santa suit, although precious, gave her no indication as to whether or not Jason still had the same athletic form he had had in high school. If only he would take off the costume…
With a blush, she returned to her car and started it, and the heat.
A minute later, Jason sat beside her, and they were on their way.
***
Jason snuck glances at Becca. Whoops, Rebecca. Her hair was just as bright a blond as it had been in high school, her brown eyes that same spark. Her heavy winter coat prevented him from seeing the rest of her, and his mind kept providing examples.
He coughed to clear his thoughts.
“Oh no, don’t tell me Santa’s getting sick,” she teased.
“I’m fine,” he said, his voice a little tight. “How have you been?”
“I’m fine,” she parroted, her voice still teasing.
“Good.” He wanted to pummel her with questions—when had she moved back home, was she living here now, was she seeing anyone…. But so much time had passed, he had no claim on her now.
Hell, he should have fought harder, changed her mind or gone out there with her. But he hadn’t been as smart as her, and although athletic, he hadn’t gotten a full scholarship anywhere, and had to go to a state school. Becca—Rebecca—had gotten into her dream school with several scholarships, and her parents had paid the little balance that remained.
“Quarter for your thoughts?”
“A whole quarter?” He yanked his beard down. It was scratchy and unbearable in the heat of the car, although he welcomed the warmth; he’d been waiting for the tow car for a good fifteen minutes before Becca—Rebecca—came along.
“Yes. I’m in a giving mood today.” She glanced over and smiled at him.
“Just thinking you’re an angel for helping me like this.” He winced. Could he sound more desperate?
“Just one of your helpers.” She pulled into the mall parking lot but instead of parking, she stopped at the front entrance. “Here you go.”
Dropping him off. So sweet, and yet he regretted the extra minute they could have had. “Thank you so much.” He readjusted his beard and then reached for the door handle.
“Wait a second.” She undid her braid and pulled out a few bobby pins. “Come here.”
Jason leaned over.
She lifted his wig and secured his hair back with the pins. Then she pulled his wig down. Cupping his cheeks, she moved his face left and right. “There,” she said with a satisfied nod. “Can’t have you destroying little ones’ dreams.”
He grinned. They were so close he hardly had to move to kiss her.
He glanced down at her hands. She was wearing gloves, making it impossible to know if she were engaged or married.
Jason gulped and pulled back as a large knot formed in his stomach. “You’re one helpful helper,” he said, his voice a little rougher than he intended. If Rebecca was married, she might even have a child by now, could be here to buy for him or her.
What the heck was wrong with him? He had loved Becca once, but they hadn’t spoken in almost ten years. How could his feelings for her still be so strong? “Now as long as you don’t do anything naughty, you can expect some nice presents from me on Christmas,” he said, prolonging their time together as long as possible.
She smiled but said nothing, and Jason opened the door and climbed out. After a wave, he said, “Thanks again,” turned around, and entered the mall.
***
Rebecca waited until he walked inside to drive away and find a parking spot. She turned the car off. With a groan, she pressed her forehead to the steering wheel. “Why?”
Jason had never left her tongue-tied before. That was some of the reason why they had been so perfect together in high school, despite their traveling in different circles, her a brain, him a jock. Lots of other crushes had left her stammering and red-faced, but not Jason.
“Does that mean you’ll be sneaking into my house?” she should have said to him. Light and flirty without being too over the top. “Or even, so I’ll be seeing you again?”
She banged her head into the steering wheel again, and her car honked. “I’m pathetic.”
Get it together, girl.
Rebecca walked into the mall. A blast of warm air hit her, and she untied her pea coat.
She rounded the corner, and there before her was Santa’s workshop. Tall, with a chimney, lots of garland, and a huge Christmas tree with presents beneath it, it looked every part of a magical scene.
A large line of excited children waited to see Santa. Rebecca walked around them. Hiding behind yet another Christmas tree, she spied Jason. He sat on a black chair, looking impressively heavy, a pillow most likely. A mom was trying to convince her little girl to sit on his lap.
Jason said something, and the girl laughed. She gave a shy smile and climbed onto his knee. He whispered into her ear, and the girl smiled widely. A flash and the mom exclaimed, “It’s perfect!”
Rebecca pressed a hand to her chest. She was nearing thirty, and she’d thought she would have started her family before now. Although she loved working as an accountant—math had always been her favorite subject—she had never wanted to only have a career. She’d returned home to start her own business, and it was flourishing nicely. What had Jason done since graduating?
Rebecca shook her head and walked away. She had shopping to do. Reminiscing and wishing wouldn’t change anything.
Maybe she would call her mom and tell her she would be coming over for Christmas after all. Being lonely never felt so lonesome before.
***
A couple of hours passed, and Jason stood and stretched.
Heather, the photographer, nodded. “The line’s not bad. Want a ten minute break?”
He nodded. “Please.”
He walked away after Heather put out the signs that said Santa was feeding his reindeer and would be back in a few minutes.
His back was sore but he couldn’t complain. The delighted smiles of the kids as they whispered their Christmas wish list to him more than made up for a little discomfort.
When his older brother had asked him to fill in this year because he was too busy with his newest family addition, Jason’d scoffed at the idea. To humor Jeff, he’d donned the suit for his nephews. After seeing little Rick gasp and believe, Jason readily agreed.
It wasn’t until Rick had been born three years ago that Jason loved a little kid. He even entertained the idea of becoming a father one day himself, if he could ever find the right woman.
That is, if he hadn’t already had her and lost her.
After high school, Jason studied and became a reporter. For the longest time, he struggled at the bottom of the ladder, but in the past two years, he had finally made some headway and earned the promotion of investigative reporter. His editor-in-chief had given his blessing for the Santa project, and Jason had been writing several seasonal pieces, ever since Thanksgiving had passed.
“Quarter for your thoughts?”
His heart skipped a beat as he whirled around.
Rebecca stood behind him. She held out a Cinnabon and an extra fork. “Santa needs some fattening up.”
He grinned. She wasn’t wearing gloves anymore. Even better, she wasn’t wearing a ring. After he shoved some cinnaminny goodness into his mouth, he said, “Actually, what Santa needs is a Mrs. Claus.”
“Excuse me?” Her eyes grew wide as saucers as they sat on a nearby bench.
“For pictures. On the weekends.” He nodded toward the workshop.
Her cheeks stained a bright pink. “I…”
“You don’t have to, Becca,” he rushed to add. “I’m sorry. Rebecca.”
“You can call me Becca.” She smiled, and her cheeks turned from pink to red. “Or Mrs. Claus on the weekends.”
He ho ho hoed as he pulled her close for a hug. She whispered something about this Christmas not being a lonely one after all.
Oh no, he definitely didn’t think it would be lonely. Santa and Mrs. Claus were made for each other, just like he suspected he and Becca were.
My bio:

Nicole Zoltack writes fantasy/paranormal, romances, horror, historical, for adults, YA, MG, and PB, novels, short stories, and flash pieces. She's also an editor for MuseItUp Publishing and eTreasures Publishing, and a freelance editor for Passionate Writer Publishing.

When she isn't writing about girls wanting to be knights, talking unicorns, and zombies, she spends time with her loving family. She loves to ride horses (pretending their unicorns, of course!) and going to the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, dressed in period garb.

To learn more about Nicole and her work, visit her website at www.NicoleZoltack.com or her blog at http://NicoleZoltack.blogspot.com.

My Links:

Website http://www.NicoleZoltack.com
Blog http://NicoleZoltack.blogspot.com
Twitter http://twitter.com/NicoleZoltack
Facebook fan page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicole-Zoltack/93384618347
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2887586.Nicole_Zoltack.
My books on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/mn/search/?ref_=nb_sb_noss&url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=nicole%20zoltack&x=0&y=0&rd=1

Welcome Anne Holly

2011-12-12T11:42:00.000-05:00

I first met Anne Holly when her story, Unwrapping Scrooge was released. I thought, great name for the
author of a Christmas story…but then there were more, a Valentine’s Day book,
Thanksgiving, New Years, Halloween.
Yeah, I think maybe
the name inspired me, a bit. Unwrapping
Scrooge started it off, and it’s still one of my favourites:
Bestselling author Kale McKinnon is a modern Scrooge – eccentric,
misanthropic and reclusive, made bitter by the coldness of his wealthy family.
But when optimistic Canadian graduate student Molly Gillis visits Oxford and invades his
space, he realizes Christmas is about to change for him forever. But can he
make her stay, and force himself to un-Scrooge enough to be the right man for
her?
I love those
redemption themes!

I have a few holiday stories myself, they’re tempting, but
Anne, you seem to have a thing for the special days on the calendar.
It seems to have
turned out that way. I have seven titles directly relating to various holidays,
one novel that includes a holiday (Strings
Attached), and one on the way that takes place during two holidays and is
tied in with another. I also have a holiday collection coming out in 2012.

Do you have a favorite holiday?
I think, Halloween.
No major meals to prepare, and pure fun. The Thanksgiving and Christmas/New
Years holidays are good, too, because most of us get a little break from work.
I love all the fall/winter holidays, for the most part. The summer ones are too
hot for me to enjoy. But, yes, Halloween is my favourite.

What makes it extra special for you?
It’s for the kids,
and the inner child. The decorations are better than any other holiday, in my
opinion, and so are the movies and cartoon specials. The atmosphere is
wonderful, all Sleepy Hollow and spooky. A wonderful metaphor for the coming
winter gloom. Plus, what’s not to love about a holiday focused on candy?

Do any of your stories reflect your own memories?
Somewhat. In Unwrapping Scrooge, the heroine talks
about watching White Christmas and
eating shortbread as a family tradition, and that’s one of my little holiday
enjoyments. She also grew up without much money, which was a running theme in
my childhood holidays.

Tell us a little about it.
We never got very
much as kids in terms of gifts, but I never felt deprived. We enjoyed what we
had, and the food was great. And the beautiful, silent snow-covered trees… They
were lovely times, those winters in the woods as a child.
I’ve been perusing your sites, that guy on the cover of Good for the Goose is a real hottie!
We’d love to hear more about that story.
Yes! Isn’t he
gorgeous? I even adapted the story a little so the model could fit the
character, he’s so pretty. Rebel Ink makes some nice covers.
Good for the Goose is a sexy story, as well as a romance. It’s
about a woman who’s shattered by a divorce, and thinks, “Well, that’s it for me
and men!” But then she gets snowed in with that hot Spanish guy on the cover,
who also happens to be about ten years younger than her, and, well… Let’s say,
they melt some ice.
That’s what Christmas
is all about, isn’t it? Opening up your heart and taking the chance on renewed
life.

Do you have any more holiday stories planned?
Always! I’m not sure
exactly why they attract me, other than the fact that I always loved Christmas
romance novels as a teen, and they are such pretty, evocative seasons.
I think I will lay
off Christmas for a little while, since one can only promote so many books in
one season, but I have others up my sleeve. My next release will happen around
Father’s Day, since it’s a book about a single father (and a single mother)
struggling to find a love that can work. And, I’ll have a short story for
Labour Day next fall to promote the release of my Rebel Ink Press holiday
stories in a single paperback volume. I figure if I can make Labour Day sexy, I
can do anything.

What other news would you like to share with the readers?
I celebrated my first
paperback release ever a few weeks ago, for a paperback anthology, Yule be Mine vol 2, from Decadent
Publishing. That was pretty exciting! I also just this week signed a new
contract with Pink Petal Books for my second full length novel, in ebook and in
print editions – that news hasn’t even come out much yet, so you may be hearing
it here first.

Where will this Christmas Eve likely find you?
At home. Not
shopping. Not fighting through crowds of travelers to get some place. At home,
hopefully in my PJs, with my little three year old son, watching the snow fall
outside or enjoying a movie, and eating oranges and grapes and chocolate, and
drinking cider – my favourite things about the season.

Awww, that will be the best, my nephew is three and
completely into the Christmas experience! I hope all of your son's and your dreams
come true.
And where can our readers find you and your books?

You can check out my blog, or see my holiday
website. I’m pretty much all
over the net!
Thanks for having me!
This was fun. Happy holidays, everyone!
*
Bio:
Anne Holly is
a Canadian writer of romance and erotic-romance, as well as a mother and
teacher. She is the author of the novel Strings Attached, which was
described by The
Romance Reviews as “a classic contemporary romance.” She has been
published by Wild Horse Press, Decadent Publishing and Rebel Ink Press, and in
2012 by Pink Petal Books. Anne’s work is characterized by its unusual heroes,
sweet/spicy balance, witty dialogue, responsible citizenship, and its positive,
optimistic nature. She has found a particular niche in holiday romance. You may visit
Anne at her blog or website, or find her on GoodReads, Facebook and
Twitter (@anneholly2010).
Sign up for her newsletter here.
Email her at anneholly2010@gmail.com.

Kerri Nelson and Courting Demons...and a very cool prize!

2011-10-11T13:05:00.004-04:00

Welcome, Kerri! We've been seeing your gorgeous cover around and it's great that you could stop by today. Can you tell us a bit about the story of Courting Demons?

Blurb:
Paisley Barton was already having a bad day before she turned her husband into a rat.
First, she was fired by her boss and then came home to find hubby in the shower with a naked blonde chick. They say that hell hath no fury like a woman scorned but this break-up may just unleash hell on Earth when Paisley casts a spell of vengeance against her philandering husband.
After her spell casting inadvertently opens a portal between dimensions, Paisley finds her family home transformed into a nightly courtroom for settling disputes between demons of the underworld and she’s the judge! If that’s not enough, she’s got to deal with a charming, ancient demon named Camden who wants to be her personal bodyguard while trying to explain her husband’s sudden, mysterious disappearance to sexy police Detective Dalton Briggs.
But Paisley will show them all that an everyday working mom is better equipped than most to deal with the mystical mayhem…and with a tempting demon hottie and a flirtatious young detective vying for her affection, she soon learns that being single again isn’t so bad after all.
“When a wronged wife turns her cheating husband into a rat, you know you have to keep reading! Kerri Nelson offers up a lot of fun and wild magic in Courting Demons!” --Bestselling author, Linda Wisdom, Demons are a Girl’s Best Friend

Author Bio:
Kerri Nelson discovered her love of writing at an early age and soon became a columnist for her local newspaper winning the Outstanding Young Journalist of the Year Award for her efforts.

After a fifteen year career in the legal field, Kerri fulfilled her lifelong dream of publication and is now an award winning multi-published author of nearly every genre under the sun (and moon) and also writes young adult fiction under the penname K.G. Summers.

A true southern belle, she comes complete with a dashing southern gentleman and three adorable children for whom she often bakes many homemade treats.

Kerri is an active member of Sisters in Crime and Romance Writers of America as well as numerous chapters including Futuristic Fantasy & Paranormal Writers and her Presidency of Celtic Hearts Romance Writers.

Read more about Kerri’s books at her website: www.kerrinelson.com
Follow her on Twitter here.
Visit her industry blog, The Book Boost Blog here.

Buy Links (print and e-book versions available 9/15 wherever books are sold but here’s the publisher link—free gift available with purchase of print copy—while supplies last)

or
Amazon.com

Giveaway for the day:
Leave a question or comment to be entered to win today’s prize: A Mini Spa Kit!

Then, enter to win my book tour Grand Prize Kindle by following me on tour and e-mailing me the answers to each question of the day at the end of tour. The more questions you answer, the more entries you gain.
Question of the Day:
What was the name of the newspaper column I wrote in high school?

Details on how to enter to win the GRAND PRIZE Kindle at the end of my “Dark Days of Demons Tour” located here.

Excerpt link for Courting Demons.

Guest Blog:

Sexy + Mom = YOU!
Don’t you wish every day was Mother’s Day?

Unfortunately for most of us Moms—we don’t feel the love as much as we should. Particularly when we allow our kids to rule our lives (including our sex lives). Oh no! Feeling like a Mom and feeling like a sexy woman don’t always go hand in hand.

I recently found a great site which listed TEN ways to help us feel sexy again and courtesy of SmartMomma.com, I’m going to share those with you today along with my comments and suggestion on each (I have different takes on these ideas than they do).

Here we go…

1. Buy New Lingerie.
Kerri’s suggestion: Or…buy a book that has a sexy mom interacting with a sexy hero. There’s nothing like playing out a fantasy in your mind that will tempt you to play out one in real life.
2. Strip for him.
Kerri’s suggestion: Well, okay…not bad but I know a lot of men just want to get to the action. So, why not make him strip for you? That is sure to bring a smile to your face.
3. Exercise.
Kerri’s suggestion: We all need to do more of this. Moms always put themselves last. We take care of everyone else in our life BEFORE we do anything for ourselves. Take a walk today and enjoy the weather. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Or just do those kegel excercises while you’re reading (both of these will spice up the sex life).
4. Get a new hairstyle.
Kerri’s suggestion: Now this one would cause a huge problem with my hubby. He adores my long hair. If I were to come home with a major do re-do, he’d have a fit. Last year, I tried to go blonde after having my last baby. It was a nightmare of epic proportions. So, if you don’t feel ready to take this major step—maybe try a sexy wig instead.
5. Flirt with your partner.
Kerri’s suggestion: This one I like. I’ll bet that most of us do too little flirting these days. I love a big flirt (wink, wink).
6. Have a spa day.
Kerri’s suggestion: I love this idea and hubby actually bought me a gift card for one of these for my birthday last month. Haven’t used it yet but will do so soon. But if you can’t afford to do the real thing, just try getting together with a gal pal and doing a home pedicure and chick movie night. Or win today’s Mini Spa Kit!
7. Go on a trip with your significant other, without the kids.
Kerri’s suggestion: I’d adore this idea if it was possible for me. The closest I got to this was last weekend when I attended a writer’s conference with hubby and only 1 of my youngins in tow. See my blog post from last Thursday if you want to see how that turned out. Not quite as romantic as a journey to a romance writer’s conference should be!
8. Get a new scent.
Kerri’s suggestion: Ohh…I’m all about smells. I don’t like the yukky ones or the super strong ones and I love a sexy man smell that is subtle. Men, pay attention, this doesn’t mean to slather on the cologne like it is going out of style. I got on the elevator last weekend after just such a man had vacated it and almost passed out from the cologne overkill. Myself? I’m more of a freshly clean, lightly fragrant soap user who wants to smell clean and sweet. What about you?
9. Get yourself some toys.
Kerri’s suggestion: Toys? Whatever could they mean? Sex toys? I vote for that. New toys like a new microwave? Hmmm…well not sexy but does come in useful. A new car? Sigh. I’m dreaming now.
10. Spend the night with him.
Kerri’s suggestion: I did get to do this recently—go on a real date for our anniversary. We got to go to dinner “kidless” dinner. It was shockingly strange. I didn’t have a diaper bag or any snacks in my purse. Oddness. But we should try to do this more often than once a year.
When’s the last time you went on a kidless date with your significant other?
Thanks for hosting today, Valerie. Let a Mom in your life know you love her today and remind her that she’s still a sexy creature as well.

© Kerri Nelson 2011

Orion's Way

2011-10-07T09:57:00.000-04:00

Orion is a vampire with a tragic past. After running away from abusive parents at the tender age of sixteen, he was turned by a ruthless elder vampire and forced to torture and sexually abuse human feeders and submissive vampires. Though that's all behind him now, he still lives in the shadow of what he was, and it's cost him the loyalty of Xavier, the human feeder he loves. Malagan is Orion's closest friend--the vampire who saved him from brutality all those years ago. Malagan knows the dominant side of Orion--the side Xavier needs--is still there, lurking below the surface. But if Orion's going to find his way back to who he ought to be, he'll need help. And Malagan is just the man for the job.

JM Powers and Basket of Hope

2011-10-06T00:01:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the two of you.
J.M.: Hi there, thanks for having us. Machias feels a bit out of place in this era, but I thinks he’s okay now.
Machias: Ah, nonsense—what is that outside yon window?
J.M. : It’s a car, Machias.* Shrugs* Told ya...okay, on with the interview. I’ll do edits on my next book while you two chat. If you need any translations, let me know.
Machias, we hear that you’ve been ordered to pick a bride, do you have anyone in mind?
Aye, the maiden I love is not privy to my feelings yet. Kara is fair of face, and she all but takes my senses when she waits on my family. Ye may believe a scullery maid is a poor choice, nevertheless, my heart always knew of my love for her. Soon, I intend to make my feelings known—to everyone.
That possible choice must be causing some stress in the family, will you get your father’s blessing?
My father is a cruel man, but I know in his own twisted way, he thinks he knows what is best for the kingdom. He keeps parading the maidens he deems pure witches. I simply must show him Kara is best for me. That shall prove difficult, but I shall not budge. Mayhap my mother shall sway him—or even help me plan something behind his back.
If Kara agrees, won’t it put you both in great danger?
Alas, I know not if Kara shall take my offer. She thinks herself unworthy. If I deem she is any danger, I shall use use all my powers to protect her. However, in my eyes, naught can be more dangerous than my father’s incessant interference with matters that involve my heart. I hope that he dares not stand in my way, or he shall end up on the wrong side of a spell.
I understand that your bride should be a witch, and Kara hasn’t shown any signs of being one has she?
Ah, but she has! From the time we were children, I showed her little spells, in the hope that perchance she would feel comfortable around magic. But alas, her fear kept her from believing in herself. Her mother is an evil witch, and I suppose Kara feared she is the same. (I cannot ascertain, for she refuses to even of it.) Through the years, Kara denied herself, until she actually believes she is naught more than a mortal.
It’s all so romantic, can you protect Kara from all the dangers that surround you both?
I shall always protect Kara. Though evil is gaining power with each sunset, combining pure magic and true love in a marriage shall overcome even the greatest danger.
Your author JM Powers seems very nice, to tell your story in Basket of Hope, how did you meet her?
Ah, J.M. and I have been friends for all time. Kara and I share a space in JM’s mind with other characters. Every once in awhile, she creates a world for us to live in.
Does she have other books that readers might enjoy as well?
She has another magical world in Stellar Surprise. Kara and Zoe (the fairy in Stellar Surprise) are great friends. (However, Zoe is a bit...ahem, more experienced, so I am a bit relieved she is in another book.) J.M. wrote Stellar Surprise back in 2009 under a different pen name: Summer Falls. (That was the naughty J.M.)
My author is also expecting a new release this year. It is a full-length novel: Jewel of Ramstone, a medieval romance.
She has book trailers of all books on her blog.
Where can we find Ms. Powers?
Hopefully, she can be found in the hearts of her readers! Ah! So I suppose you mean where can we find her on that modern thing called the internet? One moment...*pulls out parchment and breaks the seal* I shall read it to you...I suppose you modern mortals can make sense of this:
Blog: http://jmpowersromance.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002182850652
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/JMPowersAuthor
And where can we find her books?
With Breathless Press Publishing:
Basket of Hope link: http://www.breathlesspress.org/Book/348
Stellar Surprise link: http://www.breathlesspress.org/Book/138
Machias: My thanks for allowing me to visit and speak of my world, ‘twas a wonderful experience. I hope to meet you again in Basket of Hope.

Blurb
All Hallows Eve looms near, and encroaching evil shall have its way if a marriage filled with true love and pure magic does not take place. Machias must choose a witch, something Kara never hopes to be.

Machias' father will do anything to ensure his son choses wisely—Lies, beatings and even an attempt to soil Kara's innocence is not past the man.

Machias' marriage announcement promises to burn Kara's hope to cinders...unless something truly magical happens at the All Hallows Eve Ball.

Basket of Hope-JMPowers—long excerpt 963 words

The thump of Thaddeus’ sword faded as Kara's gaze traveled from him to Machias. Coveting his body, she perused it, until she reached his buttocks, resting her gaze upon the curve and firmness, and following down to where it met his legs. Leather hugging breeches accented his form, caressing his lean muscles like a lover, and pronouncing his sinewy limbs with each of his movements. The way the sun glistened against Machias made her wish she could conjure magic, if only to make his clothes fall away. Kara squinted, trying to imagine Machias naked while she slipped another berry in her mouth. Naught could possibly compare to his beauty … in her imagination anyway. Her heart ached with love, and her body seemed to vibrate with the want of him. Each morn, the memory of his stolen kiss so many years ago, still remained her first waking thought.
Kara dabbed her brow with Stella's apron, feeling her cheeks heat at the reminder of her solitary attentions while fantasizing about Machias. Though she prayed for forgiveness, Kara could not help but touch herself as soon as she woke from her wanton dreams, her body still trembling with need. Stella caught her once and told her she needed to offer a village boy a good rut to ease her tension. Kara found the suggestion disgusting.
"I shall die a virgin," she whispered. Ah, if he but knew how I love him.
The men seemed to be done with practice. Machias rested his arm on the top of the pell talking to his brother. Her heart skittered when Machias gaze met hers from over Thaddeus' shoulder, seeming to feel her scrutiny.
Hoping her expression belied her thoughts Kara quickly turned her back to him and resumed picking berries. She concentrated on each tiny orb within the fruit, forcing innocent thoughts in the stead of reckless ones.
She glanced at the checked pattern on the apron, spurring a childhood memory of a game called Queek. Though his father, Lord Tanner, discouraged their play, Machias would meet her in the meadow, hiding the checkered cloth underneath his tunic. Out of sight, they would spread it onto the ground, and collect small stones. After guessing whether the stone would land on dark or light, they would toss it upon the cloth. She suspected Machias peeked, especially if she began to call Queek too often, but he never admitted it. She did not care if she won or lost. She simply relished the time spent with him. Over the years, Kara began to love him more than the game.
When Machias reached ten and five, bordering on the verge of manhood, he departed for training. He kissed her, among the first rays of sunrise, whispering his fare thee well. Be it innocent, 'twas a true kiss, and though her heart was young, it knew of her love for him even then.
Adrift with loneliness, Kara awaited his return for six years. She would inconspicuously lean closer while serving the evening meal, hoping to hear snippets of Machias' life through his parents' conversation, but they did not say much in her presence.
She bordered on giddiness when Machias returned. Although she had grown into womanhood, Kara was ill prepared to see the difference in him. Ah, what a true shock when naught of the lad she knew entered the gates, but a man. Muscles, perfectly sculpted as the marble statues in the gardens, seemed to flex with the smallest of movement. His angular jaw, sporting a hint of a beard under his dark complexion, only accented his rugged looks. Moreover, his voice…his voice, deep and tender at the same time, defined a grown man. Had it not been for the single dimple on his left cheek when he smiled, Kara often wondered if she would have recognized him at all.
At first, Kara believed he had the same issue with her, for the most attention he paid was discrete thanks when she served his meals or a request for a refill of sweet mead for his female guests. However, one day, he whispered a childhood endearment as he passed her in the garden. G'day, Kay-Kay. Oh how those words made her swoon, though she did a fair job of hiding her joy at the discovery that Machias did recognize her. He just saw her differently—beneath him. As did she, but in a sinful way.
Kara crumpled the apron in her fist, no longer finding joy in the pattern.
Ah, Machias, social standing became everything ta ye, and I became naught.
Machias waved from across the meadow. Kara looked to see who approached but saw no one. Smiling so hard her cheeks hurt, Kara slowly raised her hand. Spotting her berry-stained fingers, she snatched them down.
His smile flashed, bright and inviting. Mayhap the inviting part was simply her imagination. Just the same, Kara decided to join him and started his way.
At a poke from his brother, Machias turned away and blocked the next jab.
Kara's grin faltered and she pretended her intention was to give her mare a few berries. She grabbed a handful from her basket and outstretched her hand to Dunny. She peered over at the sound of Machias' voice. His broad back was to her, muffling his words to his younger brother, but she simply listened to the euphoric melody of the deep yet soft tones. Dunny snorted, seeming to ask for more of the sweet treat, but she returned back to the bushes.
"Why do I torture myself so?" she whispered, ripping berries from their hold. She did not even care that the thorns bit her fingertips. In a way, she welcomed the pain for 'twas preferable to the ache in her heart.

A visit with Gabe and Lily from Nopeming Shores

2011-10-03T22:48:00.005-04:00

Today we’d like to welcome Gabriel and his lovely wife, Lily from Margie's latest release, Nopeming Shores. They have something of a mixed marriage.

Gabriel, could you explain to our readers how you came to be...that is…your rather unique status?

I was serving in the military police in Afghanistan when I was blown up by an IED.

That’s horrible, what a shock to die so young. But usually, when a girl is widowed, she finds herself on her own. That certainly doesn’t seem to be the case here!

It's certainly not. Both of us were devastated by what happened to me and to our future together. So much so I couldn't leave the confines of earth. I got permission from God to help her through her grief and rebuild her life so I could move on, too.

Lily, doesn’t it make things difficult to have a ghost for a husband?

I can laugh about it now, but at first, I thought I'd lost my mind. I found these poems around the house and other places. They were in Gabe's handwriting, in his specific style of poetry, and it was impossible for them to suddenly appear since he'd been deployed and dead for months. Then, I thought I saw him in the living room. I slept with the lights on that night. When I started hearing his voice in my thoughts, I really freaked out. Even though Gabe was usually nearby, it wasn't like we were living together – he in his ghostly existence and me as a human. It was much different than that.

And remember, I'm trying to help Lily move on with her life. When Shane Keefe shows up, it complicates matters – a lot. It's pretty hard to explain jealousy from the grave.

Do your friends know about your situation, Lily?

Not really. I tried to tell my best friend, Jana, about what I suspected and saw. She thought I was whacko too. After that, I kept my mouth shut. Her reaction made me understand that seeing ghosts doesn't necessarily make people want to throw you a party….except the going away kind…in a white jacket.

Lily, is there anything else you’d like to share with the readers?

Our story is very powerful. It comes with a tissue alert. It's not just strong emotion on my part; Gabe also shares his anger, grief, and frustrations. There are some funny moments, and there are a couple of super-sexy scenes. Margie has been saying that if your heart doesn't race and you haven't cried a few times while reading this book, all your romantic bones are broken. She's right.

How can they read all about your fascinating story?

Noble Romance has exclusive rights on it for a couple of weeks, and then it'll be available at almost any eBook retailer. Here's the buy link.

One more thing we like to ask, how did you decide to have the fabulous Margie Church tell your story?

Don't give her a big head! :-p Margie wanted a special story for her 10th romance and so we let her write Nopeming Shores. LOL She had some experiences with tragic deaths, and the poet who co-authored the book, J. Andrew Lockhart, did, too. Together, they really understood what we were going through and told our story in such a beautiful, romantic, riveting way.

Wow! And where can we find more about Ms. Church’s other stories? I hear she has a vamp or two up her sleeve…among others.

Margie is a multi-published author (that's author-talk for has more than one publisher), so the easiest way to get the rest of her books is at Amazon. She has nine other books, including a bestselling, erotic gay romance. Here's the link.

If you need a nursery rhyme, she has one! Here's the link Kate, thanks for hosting Lily and Gabe today. Before they leave, I'd like to share the blurb from Nopeming Shores and offer everyone a chance to win an eBook copy. Tell me this: If a ghost visited you, do you think you'd tell people? Why or why not?

Blurb: Nopeming Shores by Margie Church with J. Andrew Lockhart

An IED snuffed out Gabe Holliway's life, but couldn't destroy his love. Using his unique gift, Gabe struggles to help his young wife, Lily, rebuild her shattered future.

But when Gabe's ghost reaches out to her, Lily fears she's lost her last hold on sanity. Can she trust what she discovers and what her heart says? When she sees Gabe face-to-face, can she believe her eyes?

When love transcends death, the answers are found in Nopeming Shores.

Two Guys from Starting Over by Starla Kate

2011-08-17T11:08:00.001-04:00

Character Interview: Corbin and Matt from Starting Over

Today we’re interviewing a couple of guys who don’t know each other, not yet anyway.

Madame Evangeline has given us special permission to chat with the guys who are being matched up, but they don’t know about each other yet so sshhh! They think it’s an interview for a business eZine. Don’t tell!

Hi Corbin, grab a seat and make yourself comfortable. Coffee, tea or scotch neat?

Scotch neat. Maybe a double.

Well, I know you’re busy so let’s get started. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Just stating facts here…I’m a self-made multi-millionaire. Bradley Financial Advisors being the heart of my dozen varied businesses.

I understand you own a large building downtown. To what do you attribute your success?

Yes, I own a prime piece of property here in downtown Oklahoma City and every business in it is one of mine. Again, not bragging just stating a fact…I worked hard for my success. 24/7 plus for a lot of years. I’m the kind of man who sets a goal and reaches it.

Okay, now I’ve got you all comfy—you married?

No. I was, for quite a few years. But…well, it ended.

A handsome, successful guy like you all alone? C’mon you must want to meet someone, what’s your dream date like?

(He blushes) Successful, yes. As to the other…well, that’s a matter of opinion. And, yes, I’d like to meet someone. I don’t like living alone. I miss going home and sharing my day with someone. Although my ex calls regularly and we still share a lot of our lives. She’s an amazing woman.

(He sighs heavily and has trouble meeting the reporter’s eyes.) That was part of the problem. Pamela being a woman, I mean. I’ve…we’ve finally come to terms with my being more drawn to men. But I don’t really know what a “dream date” would be like. I’m really new at all of this. Not that I haven’t fantasized…a lot…over the years.

(Another sigh and he meets her eye) Okay, I’ll take a stab at the “dream date” thing. I want to spend time with a man who is very comfortable in his skin, in his being a gay man. I want a man who makes me burn inside from the second I see him. That doesn’t mean he has to be drop-dead gorgeous, but that wouldn’t hurt. It means more that he needs to pull all of my strings just by being sexy, hot, and somehow showing me that he desires me in return. Asking much…yes. Expecting to find that…no. At least not anytime soon.

Whew! Sounds pretty sexy! If you meet him find out if he has a brother for me. Thanks for joining us today, I’ll let you know when your article will appear in Successful Business eZine.

You didn’t really dig much into my business reputation. But I know you received my PR kit. I suppose you’ll get the rest of what you need from that.

Now it’s time to interview the other fella, successful Landscape Designer, Matt. Welcome, Matt, to Successful Business eZine.

I’m pleased to be here.

Can you tell our readers about yourself.

I’m not sure what you want to know. I’m just an average guy who happened to finally find something to do as a career that really fit me. I dream about creating masterpiece gardens. I salivate over plant catalogues with unique flowers and bushes. Pretty dull stuff, actually.

Landscape design sounds very interesting, how long have you been in that line of work?

I started mowing lawns for a lawn service when I was 19, then helped with some garden clean ups. That’s where I got my first taste of working with plants. Over the years I moved from job to job…worked in greenhouses, worked in nurseries, took horticulture classes. Finally I started this business and it really started blossoming about five years ago…when I took on a very special partner.

Does your business involve much travel?

It didn’t in the beginning. But as my clientele got more elite, they spread the word of what I could do. I started designing for bigger businesses, for big money individuals. Finally I started getting clients all over Europe.

Your significant other must hate you being gone all the time.

He didn’t. We were business partners as well as life partners. (He looks away, swallows hard) We’re not together anymore. He died.

Oh, I’m sorry to hear that. Have you begun dating again, it must be difficult to start over after such a long term relationship, being so close to someone and losing them.

I’ve only been “single” about six months and I’m having a hard time getting beyond the grief. But I think I’m finally to the point where I’ll start taking a stab at dating again. I hate being alone.

(He flashes a smile, eyes still wary, expression determined) Eager readers, huh? What would it take to win me over? Hmmm…a spectacular body, sock-me-in-the-gut handsomeness, an 8-inch, thick dick. (He grins mischievously) Sorry. Shouldn’t have said that. (He laughs) That wouldn’t be bad, though.

(He turns serious) In truth, looks don’t matter as much to me as what is inside the man. Decency, loyalty, pride, concern for others. Still, a good ass wouldn’t be a bad thing.

Really? Sounds like a special kind of guy. Well, hope you can find him, you seem like a great guy yourself and we wish you all the best.

Thanks. I am a great guy…a super catch. (He flashes another sexy smile)

So…this is Misty Meadows, for Successful Business eZine. Be sure to catch our next interview,

Blurb for Starting Over

Corbin was finally trying to ease into his new lifestyle. He was scared shitless, wondered what had possessed him to agree to this 1 NightStand arrangement. He’d spent years fantasizing about this. As he neared the long, lean man with graying hair a bit shaggy, a hard on pushing at the front of his swim trunks, and a sexy-as-hell grin, the dreams paled in comparison.

Excerpt

Matt had considered changing his mind about this one-night arrangement. But as the tall, well-built man walked across the pool area toward him, all thoughts of that fled. Those broad shoulders, the amazing pecs, the spattering of dark hair on his chest…all of it called to him. He wanted to touch it, play with it. He forced himself to calm down. This was a virgin gay man. He would be his first male lover and he would have to find the inner strength to take his time. Could he?

Matt sat on a chaise lounge near the poolside bar, sipping on some fruity island drink the bartender had insisted he try. Not bad really, but he preferred beer. He’d been out here almost an hour and already had two women and a young stud make advances. He’d politely turned them all down, saying he was here with someone. Now he wished that someone would join him before he had to make excuses again to the Barbie-doll shaped woman heading in his direction.

She had no sooner wobbled up on her ridiculously high-heeled sandals than he spotted Corbin Bradley walking into the pool area. Well, well, well. Prime male and mine for the night. The thought surprised him, but he couldn’t deny the way his pulse raced and his body went on high alert. He grinned, glanced past the twenty-something blonde, and waved at his roomie. “Over here.”

Frowning her disappointment, the blonde walked off, muttering, “What a waste.”

He’d heard that kind of comment many times over the years and didn’t care a bit. He was comfortable with his homosexuality, even if others couldn’t easily see it until he revealed it. Unconcerned with her reaction, he studied the tall, well-built man making his way across the pool area. The photo he’d seen of Bradley didn’t do him justice. It seemed so wrong to ever hide those broad shoulders, the amazing pecs, and incredible six-pack beneath a suit, even an obviously expensive, tailored one. He longed to smooth his hands over what he saw, feel the muscles beneath his palms, play with the nipples and the spattering of dark hair on his chest. He wanted to…. God! Get it together. Stop salivating and be cool.

His cock had hardened and pressed the front of his trunks, so he lowered the hardback book he’d been reading and tented it over his erection. “Any trouble getting here?” A lame question, he knew.

“No.” He looked down at him and Matt saw uneasiness in his eyes. Yet he’d come all this way in spite of his rigid posture, the tightness in his jaw. He stretched out a hand. “Corbin, but I guess you know that already.”

Matt gave him a reassuring smile and shook it. Their hands, like their overall size, appeared similar, except his was callused from work. “Matt.”

With a slight nod of acknowledgment, Corbin eased onto the chaise lounge next to him, turning his head to take in the scene, the dozen sunbathers, the few people enjoying the pool. “I guess you can tell how nervous I am. I hope I don’t disappoint you.”

Matt relaxed. “I didn’t come here with a lot of expectations other than getting away, seeing someplace new, sharing the experience with someone.” He held Corbin’s gaze and said, “I’m a little nervous myself, but I think we’ll be fine together.”

His dark brown eyes looked hopeful. “As long as you understand….”

“Don’t worry about it.”

As if he needed to make sure Matt knew what he’d meant, Corbin leaned closer and said so only he would hear, “I’ve never…well, never been with a man.”

The admission took guts. Until that moment, Matt hadn’t really intended to actually have sex with the date he’d been matched with, although he’d toyed with the idea. Now he intended to be Corbin’s first male lover. He would guide him into what could happen between them.

Find out more about Starla at her BLOG

Allison from Carrie Pulkinen's To Catch a Spirit

2011-08-12T00:41:00.004-04:00

Hi Allison and welcome to Got Romance Reviews.

1. We hear you have a special talent? A healing method?
Yes. I have many psychic gifts, but I earn my living practicing Reiki, a form of healing through the manipulation of energy.

2. Can you tell us how you learned to use Reiki?
I know it sounds ordinary, but I took classes. There are three levels of Reiki classes, and I went through the entire course. That makes me a "Reiki Master"--meaning I can teach others the process.

3. I understand that form of healing can be used even long distance…has that been your experience as well?
It can, though it's much harder. Healing over a long distance requires incredible concentration and focus. The closer the subject, the easier it is to transfer the healing energy.

4. Do you have any an anecdote you can tell the readers to show how you use your gift to clear bad energy from furniture?
I wandered into Lucia’s Antique Furniture Store two years ago and was struck by a beautiful cherry-wood vanity in the back of the showroom. The moment I touched it, tendrils of sadness crept up my arm like ivy climbing a lattice. I saw a woman, who’d lost a child, sobbing at the vanity. She’d cried there every night. The furniture had trapped her energy.

“How long have you had this piece?” I asked Lucia.
“Too long,” the woman replied. “It’s so beautiful, but I can’t sell it. It’s 18th century, you know.”
“I know. It’s got a lot of negative energy stored in it. I can clear it for you. See if that helps it sell.”
“You can do that?” Lucia’s eyes widened. “Yes! Please, I’ll do anything to sell that piece.”
I closed my eyes and took a few deep, cleansing breaths. Then I put my hands on the vanity and focused my energy toward it. I opened myself up like a conduit, allowing the negative energy to pass through and out of me, releasing it back into the universe. When I was done, I pulled a crystal out of my pocket and placed it on top of the vanity.
“There. That should do it. Keep this crystal on it overnight, and I bet it’ll sell pretty quickly now.” I smiled at Lucia and turned to go.
“Wait. What about your crystal?”
“I’ll come back for it in a few days.”
When I returned three days later, the vanity was gone.
Lucia pulled me into a tight embrace and kissed me on both cheeks. “I sold that piece the next day. I can’t thank you enough.”
Heat flushed my cheeks, and I shrugged. “It’s what I do.”
“How much would you charge to work on all my furniture?”
“Umm, I don’t know. I’ve never worked on such a large scale before.”
“Is your office somewhere close by?” Lucia asked.
“I don’t actually have an office. I see what few clients I have in the park. I’ve been taking care of my mom. She was sick with cancer, but she passed away a few months ago. I’m still trying to get back on my feet.” I had to blink back the tears. I missed my mother terribly, and it still hurt to talk about her passing.
Lucia put her arm around me. “I’m sorry about your loss, dear. But meeting clients in the park is no way to start a business. You need an office.” She led me to the back of the showroom where a small door opened into an empty room. “It’s yours if you want it. We could work out a way for you to pay rent. Maybe you could work on my pieces in return for the space?”
The size of my bedroom, the office held a small counter and sink on one side. The soft jade walls produced a calming effect, and thick, camel-beige carpet covered the floor.
“It’s perfect.”
Lucia took me in, gave me a place to build a business when my hope was about to run out. I'll be forever thankful for the kind, motherly figure that came into my life at just the right time.

5. Why does furniture need clearing up?
Like the anecdote above states, it can hold on to negative energy. You might be in a bad mood whenever you sit in a certain chair, but you won't know why. If the energy is cleared from the object, it can't have negative effects on people.

6. What’s the scariest haunted location you ever visited?
Oh, definitely the old mental hospital on Halloween. It nearly killed me! But you'll have to read the book for all the details. Just thinking about it makes me queasy.

7. Can you tell us anything interesting about your author?
Well, she grew up next door to a cemetery, so she's been around death and spirits all her life. She's an empath, kind of like me, but on a smaller scale. Oh! She's also a ghost hunter. We have a lot in common!

8. Where can our readers find your book?
They can go to her blog: http://carrie-pulkinen.blogspot.com/p/my-books.html. There are links to the different places they can purchase it. They can also get it directly from Breathless Press: http://www.breathlesspress.org/Book/241.

9. If a reader should have a haunted house, would you be able to help them?
Hmm...I'm not sure. After the Halloween incident, I'm still a bit hesitant to take on any new spirits. Helping Logan with his ghost was difficult enough.

10. How can the readers find your author?
At her blog: http://www.carrie-pulkinen.blogspot.com
Or Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Carrie.Pulkinen
They can also email her at carrie.pulkinen[at]hotmail[dot]com
And follow her on Twitter: http://twitter.com/CarriePulkinen

Thank you so much for talking with me. It was fun!

BLURB:
Psychic Allison Dupuis has a soft spot for Logan Mitchell, even though she’s never met him. All it takes is one encounter for the millionaire’s true emotions to slip through Allison’s shields, and she is intrigued. He needs her help, but Allison soon discovers that the kind of help Logan needs is the kind she isn’t willing to give. Logan has a ghost, and Allison doesn’t work with spirits anymore.

But the ghost is the least of Logan’s problems. Born an empath, Logan is constantly barraged with human emotions. And while his talent has come in handy in the business world, it’s about to drive him insane. Literally. Logan has OCD, and his ability triggers unbearable attacks that have him counting and cleaning until he collapses from exhaustion.

Sex and money. That’s all anyone wants from him. Even worse, he’s plagued with recurring visions of his future wife’s death, so Logan has spent his entire life avoiding love. He’s given up hope of ever having a normal life, until he meets Allison. She’s everything he’s ever dreamed of, and now he has to decide if loving her is worth risking her life.

If she’ll even have him. Allison’s lost too much already – her mother to cancer, her father to suicide. But, Logan is so charming and so real, she can’t help but fall for him. Now she has to overcome her fear of commitment…and ghosts…or face spending the rest of her life alone.

EXCERPT:
She sensed them as they drew closer to her - many different spirits, their energy buzzing on varying frequencies.

"One at a time, guys. Please." she said. But they didn’t listen. These were the spirits of the mentally ill, after all. Taking turns wasn’t their concern, and they all rushed her. She felt their presence closing in on her like an avalanche, and she was consumed. Every mental illness imaginable was thrown into her psyche as she tightened her grip on Gage’s hand and slumped down in her chair.

"Allison! Allison, are you okay?" Gage’s voice was a distant echo as she fought to hold on to herself. She was slipping. Sliding into the depths of despair and the spirits were pulling her down.

"It’s . . .No . . .There’s a light . . .You need to . . .You need to go to it." She tried to help the spirits cross over, but they wouldn’t listen. There were too many. Twenty at least, and they were so consumed by their own illnesses they thought of nothing else. Paranoia, depression, anxiety. Allison felt it all, and it was going to kill her. The pressure. So hard to breath. Her hands cradled her head as the migraine overtook her. Sharp, pounding pain had her crumpled on the floor as she drew her knees into her chest and rocked back and forth.

"Make it stop. Please, just make it stop." She was paralyzed. Frozen by the anguish of the tortured souls that forced themselves upon her. Hot tears streamed down her face and blood trickled from her nose. She gasped for air as she heard a faint voice call, "Get her out of here!"

Freak Week Opening by Sarah Angel

2011-08-01T04:00:00.002-04:00

Hello kids! Sarah Angel, the original earth angel here.

Once again Freak Week is upon us, a glorious excuse to spend too much time on the computer, dish on paranormal happenings and give away the goodies in Stephanie Beck’s coiffures of fantasticness.

For schedules, scavenger hunt details, rules and all things relating to Freak Week, check out www.stephaniebeck.net and click on the Freak Sorority Tab—trust me, you’ll like it.

Anywhosers. What’s been happening with everyone since the last Freak Week? James, Ivy and I have been on a world adventure, checking out possible locations for a new Freak Sorority Headquarter. I’m leaning toward somewhere sunny, my vampire love has other thoughts. I’ll be on Facebook at www.facebook.com/StephanieBeckAuthor today for chit chat, so be sure to stop over there as well.

Now, for the real fun of Freak Week.

CONTEST:

*All correct answers will be ‘hatted’ and then chosen blindly. Duplicate answers by different commenters are okay, but try to be original when possible. (Answers will be accepted until 10:00 PM Central Standard on Monday Aug 1, 2011). Winners will be announced here and posted on www.stephaniebeck.net at the end of the contest day.

1. Name the first sorority recognized in the United States.

2. What women’s group was the first to be known as a ‘sorority’?

3. Name 3 movies with sorority themes.

***Three winners will be chosen from Monday’s answers, so get your answers in and tell your friends to stop by!*** (if you have troubles commenting, please email answers to stephaniebeckauthor@gmail.com )

Big hugs my Freak Week Friends!!

Cinnamon and Spice Scavenger Hunt

2011-04-25T10:28:00.005-04:00

L. K. Below’s Cinnamon and Spice Scavenger Hunt

Hello, everyone! As a writer of erotic romance, among other things, I’m very pleased to introduce to you my latest release -- and my latest contest!

Blurb: Jack is smart. Jack is charming. Jack is persistent.

But Melissa is dead certain that he isn't the guy for her. In a moment of weakness caused by his shiver-inducing voice, Melissa finally agrees to one date. She shows up on his doorstep determined to get it over and done with, but Jack has something different planned. With a home-cooked meal, wine, and cinnamon-scented candles, can he break down Melissa's resolve?

Can he steal her heart?

Rules:

1. Must be 18 or older to enter contest.

2. Contest open to entrants world-wide

3. Email me at the provided address (lbelow at lbelow dot net) with the answer to the question. No need to answer in essay format (unless you feel moved to do so) a simple sentence or even one word will enter you.

4. Only one ballot per question -- but if you visit my other stops and answer the other questions, you will be entered multiple times.

5. Contest open until May 2nd, 2011 at 11:59PM EST. Winner will have 48 hours to confirm their email address and give a physical address where they would like their prize to be mailed.

Prize:

1. A goodie basket of cinnamon-scented products.

2. A photo of the Cinnamon and Spice cover, signed by me (L. K. Below)

3. A PDF copy of Cinnamon and Spice.

CONTEST ALERT: To enter to win the above prizes, simply email the answer to the following question to lbelow(at)lbelow.net.

Question: Have you ever dated someone you weren’t attracted to?

Do you want more chances to win? Each scavenger hunt question answered counts for one ballot towards the prize. Check http://lbelow.blogspot.com for the full itinerary. Good luck!

Please Welcome Marianne Stephens

2011-01-10T14:07:00.003-05:00

Marianne, I thank you for coming today to share Tamerla’s story. She’s truly a woman who had to live through more than challenging times.

First of all, can you give us a little bit of background about your nonfiction book, “Guilty Survivor – Memoirs of Tamerla Kendall”; where it takes place, and what was going on there…in general terms.
“Guilty Survivor” takes place in Sarajevo during the Bosnian War (1992-1995). Ethnic groups became pitted against each other in a struggle for power. People living in Sarajevo became political hostages, finding themselves “stuck” in the middle or a war zone. A background overview about Tamerla Kendall is given before her war years’ story is presented, and information about her life after the war is added.

How did you happen to meet Tamerla and write her story?
Friends knew I’d ghostwritten an autobiography of a female speaker for a women’s shelter back in 1999. They were acquainted with Tamerla and her husband, and knew Tamerla wanted to tell her story.

I believe nonfiction is a new venture for you, was there a great deal of research to be done?
I approached this as I did my first ghostwritten, nonfiction book. I tape-recorded all our sessions so I wouldn’t miss information and took notes as Tamerla spoke. I guided her into dividing her comments for certain periods of time in her life. I even interviewed her husband.
I read information about the war, and contacted Dr. Florian Bieber, a professor (now living/teaching in Austria) who wrote reports about the war for the United Nations. I asked if he’d give me permission to use some of his text in the Foreword of my book as historical background. He told me to send what I wanted to use, and he’d allow me to use the revised version he put in his book about the war. I appreciate his gracious gesture!

I understand she had to make some extremely difficult decisions concerning her children and their safety?
Her daughter, Joana, lived with her in Sarajevo and faced the fears war brings. Going to school was difficult and dangerous. Her first husband had already left, fleeing the area because he was afraid of being picked up by the Bosnian army. Although Joana could have gone with him, Tamerla was afraid that if her husband got caught trying to leave, Joana would be left somewhere alone.
When sniper and grenade attacks escalated, Tamerla had no choice but to plan a secretive trip to get Joana to safety. Using two cars and different drivers, they passed three checkpoints and arrived at her parents’ home in Croatia. Tamerla returned, as she was the only one to save their family restaurant for their future.
Her son, Eddie, was born after the war to Tamerla and her second husband, an American. Eddie was shunned at times for being half-American. When Tamerla was assaulted at gunpoint, robbed, and threatened because she married an American, she decided their lives were in jeopardy. Once again, she had to make plans to keep her child safe…and that meant getting Eddie out of Sarajevo.

How did that affect their relationships with their mother?
Eddie misses his friends, but has made new ones in the United States. He’s happy living with his mother and father.
Joana, on the other hand, was brain-washed into believing that her mother “abandoned” her by her father. Although he encouraged Tamerla to stay in Sarajevo to keep the business operating, his plan wasn’t to return. He wanted her to sell the business at the end of the war and move to Montenegro, where he settled with Joana during the war. Tamerla divorced him, and Joana refused to listen to her mother or see her. Their relationship is tentative now that Joana is an adult, but many heartbreaking years went by without any bonding.

Where is Tamerla today and how is she doing?
Tamerla lives in the Kansas City area with her second husband and son. She’s taking more English lessons and classes for a degree in Hotel Management and Food Preparation. Her goal is to get back into the restaurant business.
She visits Sarajevo occasionally, but things are not the same. She became a US citizen last year.

Finally, writing this book, about people living in such difficult and tragic times, in a war-torn country…how did this affect you?
I had to keep focused on the tragedy and hardships she faced while putting myself in her position. I found I couldn’t write romance books at the same time, because I’d try to turn Tamerla’s story into a romance! Hers is a difficult journey of survival, crucial decisions, and finding inner strength.

Buy Link:
http://www.secretcravingspublishing.com/MarianneStephens.html
Other Links:
http://www.mariannestephens.net
http://www.romancebooksrus.blogspot.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/romancebooksrus
http://alldayallnightromancedivas.blogspot.com
http://www.secretcravingspublishing.com
http://www.xoxopublishing.com
http://www.breathlesspress.com
http://www.jasminejade.com/m-310-marianne-stephens.aspx

***Secret Cravings Publishing Grand Opening Contest Prizes include:
Registration for Romantic Times Booklovers Convention
Registration for Lorie Foster's Reader and Writer Get Together Weekend
Kindle, Nook, or Sony ebook reader
And more! Visit: http://www.secretcravingspublishing.com for details.
Thanks for having me here today to talk about “Guilty Survivor – Memoirs of Tamerla Kendall”!

Guilty Survivor – Memoirs of Tamerla Kendall
Link: http://www.secretcravingspublishing.com/MarianneStephens.html
A BLURB:

Tamerla Kendall is the woman you see rooting for her son at sporting practice. You might meet her in a grocery story. Perhaps you’ll see her planting a garden behind her home. Or, talk to her at school or work. She’s a student, worker, wife and mother.

Surviving a dark past is hidden by her façade of an everyday, average life. Reading her memoirs will reveal her true struggle to survive in a war zone, and is a testament to her courage.

Bosnian Croat, Tamerla Kendall, lived through the carnage and chaos in Sarajevo during the Bosnian War (1992-1995). Hers is a story of courage, fear, ingenuity, and survival. Difficult choices she made then still disturb her peace of mind and life today.

She made a few trips out of Sarajevo, only to return to keep the family restaurant business operating. One carefully planned, secretive trip was made to remove her daughter from the dangers of fighting, but this created a heartbreaking rift in their relationship. For her second trip, Tamerla masqueraded as a United Nations Protection Forces soldier and rode in a tank. A uniform and travel assistance came from a Ukrainian general.

Her hopes for a return to normalcy at war’s end diminished as corruption and religious zealots took control. She married an American, and this marked her as an outcast by some she’d trusted. When her life was threatened at gunpoint, she faced a critical decision concerning her family’s safety in her beloved country.

Guilty Survivor – Memoirs of Tamerla Kendall
Link: http://www.secretcravingspublishing.com/MarianneStephens.html
Unofficial Excerpt:
Restaurant Meli was attacked more than once by grenades. I was downstairs in the bakery area the first time when a grenade was thrown. It destroyed my beautiful winter garden. There was broken glass and debris everywhere and the storefront was damaged.
My first reaction was one of fear and panic. I froze where I stood, wondering if the basement had also been hit and damaged. My heart skipped a beat, and then began beating wildly. What if I’d been upstairs? What if customers and my employees had been there? Then, my fear turned to anger. Why was this happening? Who were the cowards who tried to steal my sanity and wanted to drive me away?
That same day, my employees and I put up a heavy protective wall covering in the front of the restaurant. This remained in place during the war and for some time after the war ended.
In that one instant, everything changed before my eyes. I had felt a kind of safety I’d convinced myself existed inside my restaurant. I now knew that was no longer true.
Another time, a grenade destroyed my roof. After my initial sense of heart-pounding fear, anger again took its place. I let frustration rule my senses. I got up on the roof and had some employees help me repair the damage.
It was a long, difficult job, and a saner person might have considered how vulnerable we were standing out in the open. I’d gone beyond sane level thinking and just wanted to fix the damn roof. My employees didn’t balk at this, but joined me in doing the job quickly.
We had to put rolls of material and hot asphalt on the roof. Roof attacks happened five or six times. We fell into a routine of accomplishing repair work between sniper attacks.
Death and destruction were everywhere. There was no avoiding this. Ignoring it as if it didn’t happen on a regular basis would be like ignoring an elephant sitting in the restaurant.

Getting to know PJ Schnyder

2010-12-28T00:01:00.000-05:00

Welcome PJ Schnyder!

1. Tell us your latest news. There’s plenty of exciting news to kick off the new year!

At Decadent Publishing, the first of the Terra’s Guardians series is going to print! Heart’s Sentinel will be released to print in the Spring.

I’ve also got a brand new sci-fi romance story coming out with Carina Press. Hunting Kat is scheduled for release in July.

2. What initially inspired you to become an author? I’ve been writing stories for a long time, since childhood. I’d never considered publishing my stories until the last year or two.

Friends online wanted me to share my stories. I wanted to improve my writing craft, challenge myself and learn more. The idea of sharing my stories, becoming a published author, took a surprisingly strong hold.

I had a big life change in January of 2010 and threw myself into my writing and into the idea of becoming a published author. Writing happily ever afters for readers to enjoy is incredibly therapeutic.

3. What is your favorite book? And Why? So many to choose from! If you look at my book shelves, you can tell which books I’ve read again and again. For some well-loved favorites, I’ve picked up the hard cover for a lasting collectible.

Why? Because they are stories of worlds so complete, of plots so compelling and of characters so vivid that I return over and over again to immerse myself.

There’s Anne Bishop’s Black Jewels trilogy and Patricia Briggs’ urban fantasy and older fantasy stories. Anne McCaffrey’s Dragonriders of Pern, Crystal Singer and brainship books have all been long time escapes for me. Lisa Kleypas’ Wallflowers have swept me off to England and Lora Leigh’s Nauti Boys and Breed series wrap me up in heat. I love them all!

4. 4. Do you have a particular time of day to write? We love to hear about a writer’s process.

While I don’t have a set time of day to write, I do most often find the time at night after the day job is wrapped up. I tend to head off to mixed martial arts training for a few hours to work off the stress of the day and then come home and take a long, hot shower, mulling over the next scene I’m going to work on. (Love my showers)

I sit down to my laptop, relaxed and refreshed, with a clear idea of the scene I’m going to write.

5. What do you find to be the most difficult part of writing? Knowing when to step away.

The scenes never come out as well when you force them. In the day job, I’m ruled by deadlines and I tend to want to apply that discipline to my writing. But I’ve found the stories flow much better at their own pace rather than forced. If the scene I planned to write doesn’t want to come to me, I switch to something else or take a break.

6. Do you have a favorite author? Wow, it’s impossible to pick just one. I have several favorites, each for a different aspect of their writing.

While I love Anne Bishop, I also can’t get enough of Lisa Kleypas, Kelley Armstrong, Patricia Briggs, Nalini Singh and Lora Leigh.

7. Tell us about your first published work. Heart’s Sentinel is set in a post-apocalyptic world where humans rebuild cities of advanced technology and shape-shifters restore the wilds of nature. I love shapeshifters and the possibilities of a futuristic world. Beyond that, I also tapped into the strength it takes to survive.

Mackenzie of Heart’s Sentinel never wanted to be a shapeshifter. After a shifter stalks and brutally Changes her, she runs to the jaguars of River Gap pride for protection from the stalker still searching for her, to come to terms with the attack and learn to control her new, powerful cougar body.

Learning self-defense and awareness are very important. In January 2011, I participated in a women’s self-defense workshop held by TriState Martial Arts Academy and gave away a free ecopy of Heart’s Sentinel with a signed cover flat to one of the attendees.

8. Do you have a favorite of your own works? Honestly, no. I love every one of my stories for their own characteristics.

9. Where can our readers find you on the web?

I’m all over the social media. LOL!

Website and Blog

Facebook

Twitter

Terra’s Guardians page

10. Where can they buy your books? All of my current releases can be found at:

www.DecadentPublishing.com

www.allromanceebooks.com

1placeforromance.com

amazon.com

11. Anything you would like to add? Thank you to Got Romance Reviews for having me!

Today we are chatting with Margie Church, author of Dangerous Love

2010-11-22T16:21:00.010-05:00

Welcome, Margie. Thank you for visiting with us today. I understand it’s a special day!
M –Yes, Kate, and I'm thrilled to spend the release day for Dangerous Love with you and Val. You two were some of my first friends when I got started as an author. Plus, I enjoy the support from Got Romance so much.

So Dangerous Love is out today, congratulations. This is book II in the Love Bites series. I enjoyed Love Bites when it came out last summer. Can you tell us how you came up with the idea for Love Bites?
M: I was staring at a photo of the Heidelberg castle and memories of having been there came back to me and suddenly the castle became personified as the vampire, Wade. I know it sounds crazy, but many authors can be inspired to write an entire book based on a single image, sound, suggestion, or experience. At times when I was writing Love Bites and Dangerous Love I felt overwhelmed by the task of creating these other worldly creatures and how many cities and countries they visit. It took a lot of research and thought!

Your take on vampires is a bit unique and in Dangerous Love you go further into both the relationship between Jui and Wade?
M: My vampires move among humans virtually unnoticed. They function in society and are peaceful to keep their true existance a secret. The angst in both these books comes when vampires develop romantic feelings for humans, as Wade does in Love Bites. Human emotions are forbidden and vampires who engage this way are harshly dealt with. Wade is no exception.

In Dangerous Love, the leader of the vampire nation comes after Wade in full force and he has his hands full trying to protect a mere human—Jui—from creatures she cannot fathom. Luckily for Jui, not only does Wade love her, he has genius intelligence. Coupled with vampire ingenuity, he will do anything including die, for the woman he loves.

A crazy aspect of these characters is also that some wield negative human emotions, such as jealousy, anger, and revenge that converge with shocking results.

What can you tell us about Dirk and Laddie?
M: If vampires could be psychopaths, Ladislav could be the poster child. He's cold and heartless toward anything and anyone except Victoria. You'll have to read the book to find out his connection to her over the years and her pivotal role between Ladislav and Wade. However I will say this, Victoria (Tori) is trouble beginning on the first page.

Dirk is a new character in Dangerous Love. He's the Master Prophet – he leads the shape shifter flock. He's a big dude who dresses in black leather and carries a whip. He's a Dom. Watch out for him because his face is in the moon on the cover. Not only is he dangerous, but he's unpredictable when he and Ladislav work together. There are several really intense, gritty scenes between these two leaders in Dangerous Love.

Well I’m sure the readers will enjoy Dangerous Love. I found it to be very exciting as well as touching. Wade and Jui are really special people to me after reading the two parts of their story you have so far. But you have also released a short recently, right?
Yes, my erotic romance, WET is on the market. It's a novella about Reagan and Noah, a divorced couple who are trying to build a different relationship because of their children. WET is very hot, funny, and emotional. When it rains one night, Reagan and Noah get wet in more ways than one. It's also available from Noble Romance.

What was the first thing you wrote for publication?
M: A haiku of mine was published in McCall's magazine when I was in sixth grade. I'm still friends with that teacher and he has read all my books!

Do you have any further projects in the works?
I'm writing a novella titled, Hard as Teak. This is my first venture into male/male love and I'm really enjoying it. Kade Marks is a nature photographer who takes a vacation to his cabin in northern Minnesota. While he's there to reconnect with his passion for work and his girlfriend, he meets Teak Jameson. From the first glance Kade recognizes how handsome Teak is and he's attracted to Teak but doesn't take it seriously . . . until their first kiss.

Readers who know my work often say I am very poetic in my narratives. Hard as Teak is like that. It's also a erotic romance. I expect to finish writing it by the end of November.

Thanks again for coming by. We wish you every success with Dangerous Love as well as all the books in your future!
M: It's always a pleasure to be here, Kate. I hope we'll be doing it again soon.

Contest:
One lucky winner will win a copy of Love Bites and Dangerous Love today! This is the only blog on the 10-blog tour with this double prize! Tell me whose face is in the moon on the cover of Dangerous Love and what your plans are for Thanksgiving! My birthday falls on the holiday, so maybe I'll spend Thanksgiving with you! LOL

Keep up with Margie:
Margie's website and blog: Romance with SASS
Twitter: @MargaretRChurch
Facebook: Margie Church
Red Lipstick Journals

Dangerous Love

Blurb: Wade Kairos faces deadly consequences for defying the leader of the vampire nation. Ladislav Husek partners with Master Prophet Dirk, to prove Wade can run but he can't hide. And neither can Jui Fabrice, the woman Wade loves. Every bit of his ingenuity is needed to protect her from being turned into a vampire or a prophet.

If that's not enough trouble for him, another vampire from Wade's past comes forward and makes it abundantly clear that what used to be hers is still up for grabs.
Adult Excerpt
Dangerous Love
By Margie Church
"Take off your shirt," she said while tearing open the foil package. His hard shaft jutted proudly in front of his body and Jui knelt, unable to resist sucking his gorgeous cock. She cupped his smooth balls as her lips and teeth moved up his length to the crown. She tickled the tip and let the long string of pre-cum cling to her tongue as she drew back. She smiled up at him before swallowing as much of his dick as she could. Her throat strained as she sucked him, and Wade's fingers digging into her shoulders told her how much he loved every second in her mouth.
When the ache in her body became irresistible, Jui pulled the condom out of its wrapper and began the tight journey over Wade's shaft. Then she bent over the couch and presented her glistening pussy to him. "Now it's my turn."
He pushed aside the thin strap of her thong and entered her. The pressure, the fullness of his shaft moving in her body, drove her crazy. She pumped hard against his hips, needing the glorious pain of release.
"Minx, slow down. I want to make this last."
She heard the words but couldn't obey. "We'll do it again. Make me come."
His teeth found a resting spot on her shoulder muscle. He reached around and slapped her clit.
She whimpered. "Yeah, again." The sting of his slap made her vaginal muscles tense with each tap, building the mindless need stemming from her pussy.
"Baby, you're out of control," Wade said. "Right now you just need to come. Let me give it all to you."
Wade pressed her hard against the back of the couch and drilled his cock into her pussy. Jui screamed with pleasure and encouragement. His finger teased her tight asshole and slowly entered. Her moans sounded loud and achy. She burned with lust. All she knew was his finger and cock were moving simultaneously in her, hard and fast and it . . .was . . . making . . . her come. She howled as her orgasm arrived, gripping his cock with her pussy, gushing slick juices around him.
His grunts grew louder and his thrusts slowed. "That's it. God you feel good, even with this nasty thing on my dick." He stiffened, and an extended groan filled the room. Suddenly, he pulled out, yanked off the condom, and spilled his cum on Jui's ass. "I'm going back in," he said in a raspy tone. "I have to feel you."
"Wade . . . ." Her sentence finished in a pleasurable groan as his wet shaft slid deep inside her.

Please Welcome Marius Granville From Lex Valentine's Common Ground

2010-10-30T23:59:00.001-04:00

1. Hi, please tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Marius Granville and along with my sister Elysia and brother Colin, I own Granville cemetery. My parents came to California from England during the Victorian era and built a cemetery and house that reminded them of home. The cemetery has a very Goth look to it as does my house. I love the fact that the house is nestled in the hills on a bit of land that allows me to keep horses. The beaches are just a drive down the freeway for me, but I’m not much into that although my mate is.

I’m pretty much a workaholic and if it weren’t for my two best friends Sean Antaeus and Alfred Stone, I would probably end up working seven days a week and never doing anything fun or social. But Sean and Al drag me out golfing at least once a week. I’m lucky to have such good friends.

2. I understand you’re mated to a werewolf. How does a mixed mating like that work out?

The issues I had with mating with Sair had nothing to do with the fact that we’re different races. It had more to do with the differences in our personalities. I mean, the Darkworld races have one thing in common and that’s that we get who we get for a mate. Destiny, fate, karma, the gods…whoever does the choosing is the final say.

There’s no rule that you can’t have more than one mate in your lifetime, but with vampires, they say that it has never happened. And I’m good with that. One bloodmate in my lifetime is enough for me. I can’t imagine loving anyone as much as I love Sair nor can I imagine losing her and being able to go on. If something happened to her, I’d prefer to seek the Afterworld myself in order to stay with her.

Things were a little rough at first between me and Sair. I wasn’t sure how a free spirit such as she is would work out for my lifestyle. But the thing is, mating is about compromise and finding your common ground. You have to create your “couple-ness.” It doesn’t just happen. You’ve got to work at it. Sair and I made a commitment to each other and we work at it all the time so that our relationship stays fresh and strong.

As for the issues others might have with our mixed mating, well, that just wouldn’t happen with Sair and I. She and her brother Ruan, the McCallan pack Alpha, are on the outs. Sair left their family home in Scotland to get away from him and his overbearing ways. Luckily, I don’t have to deal with the bastard. Her cousin Seth doesn’t have any real issues with her being mated to a vampire and neither does her younger brother Alastair. Both Seth and Alastair have left the pack as well and live not far from us.

My siblings both adore Sair and are very supportive of our relationship. But then, both of them are mated to black dragons so they are used to mixed matings.

3. Do you encounter prejudice from other vampires for your choice?
Not really. Like I said, when it comes to bloodmates, we get who we get. And truthfully, most of my friends aren’t vampires. I know there are some die-hard vamps out there who don’t believe in mixing the Darkworld races, but they change their tune if their bloodmate turns out to be something other than another vamp. Prejudice just doesn’t happen much in our realm because of the likelihood of your mate being of another race.

4. What is it like working with your author

I’d like to say she’s awesome, but the truth of the matter is the woman is driven. No sooner was she done with me and Sair than she was giving all her attention to Seth and Corey. Not that those two didn’t need the attention. I think they needed more help getting their HEA than Sair and I did. We had the Randalls to help us. Corey and Seth had Colin, who to be honest, only helped ‘cause he got pissed off.

If it weren’t for the fact that our author is so busy, we’d be a little more nuts about her. I do have to admit that we love what she writes though. Sair reads the good parts out loud and it’s better than foreplay sometimes! And the woman’s heart is in the right place. If she makes us unhappy, she makes up for it in the end. She’s a serious sucker for a tear-jerking happy ending. Which, of course, is perfect for all of us – her characters.

5. How can readers reach you and buy your book?

Well, other than golfing day, you can find me at the cemetery five days a week. On golf day I’m only there a half day and my siblings and I do alternating half days on Saturday.

As for my book Common Ground, it’s the fifth of the Tales of the Darkworld series and you’ll find it Pink Petal Books. (www.pinkpetalbooks.com)

6. Anything you’d like to add?

I’d just like readers to know that the next book in the series is out in October and that marks the halfway point for the series. Over the next year, each book will take us to the end of the Tales of the Darkworld. We’d like to invite readers to join us on this journey as our author finishes her first series ever. It’s a bittersweet journey for us and the more people who join us the sweeter it becomes for us because what we want is for readers to pick us up and re-read us over and over again. Your love is what gives us life.

http://pinkpetalbooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=6&products_id=71&zenid=3a1460741e1e7f0a8b5a58cef47907d6

Blurb:
Werewolf Sair McCallan escapes the confines of her brother’s pack with the help of a mated werewolf couple who believe in open sexuality and relationships. With Weylyn and Keir Randall, Sair experiences freedom in all things for the first time in her life. When she meets her mate, she’s shocked to find he’s a boring, broody vampire. Uptight Marius Granville has his staid and orderly life completely shattered by the arrival of his bloodmate, a beautiful werewolf who steals his heart and expects him to join in her kinky play with the Randalls. Marius is forced out of his hum drum existence and opens himself to new sexual experiences to please Sair. As her new mate strives to give her everything she needs, Sair battles internal demons that threaten their fragile new relationship.
Warning: This book includes sex on a washing machine, a make out session ala From Here to Eternity, sex between best friends (F/F), double penetration of a female (oh, baby!), and the best blowjob in the world (M/M) all within the confines of the hottest ménage a quatre the Darkworld has ever seen.Excerpt:

Sair shoved at him and Marius stumbled back a step. She dropped to the floor and slipped around him, trotting out of the bathroom. He followed her down the stairs and onto the deck at the back of the house. With a graceful leap, she jumped from the deck into the thick grass.
Marius came to an abrupt halt. With the silvery moonlight gilding her skin, naked Sair was a sight to behold. He sucked in a breath, his cock becoming even harder at the erotic tableau of his bloodmate stroking her hands over her moon dappled flesh.
“By the gods, Sair! You’ve no clue what you’re doing to me,” he complained as he stepped down into the grass.
Grinning wickedly, she backed away from him. “Yes, I do.” She laughed softly and darted around a tree as Marius took the shortest path toward her.
“You’re going to make me fuck you out here, aren’t you?”
She laughed again and skipped easily away from him when he tried to catch her arm. “What’s wrong with that? Are you allergic to grass?”
“No.” He stopped in a beam of moonlight, his head turning to watch her cavort naked in the dark, flitting between the trees. “But won’t the moon turn you furry?” he joked. “I don’t think I’d like to find myself coming inside a wolf.”
Momentarily startled, she stopped weaving in and out of the trees and turned to look at him. “You’d best be joking, my biter,” she said sternly. “You don’t see me assumin’ you can turn into a bat or become a pile of ash in the sun. Or, the gods forbid, sparkle.”
Her face scrunched up in an exaggerated grimace and Marius laughed. “I’m teasing about the moon. But you still haven’t shown me your wolf. Does she not wish to meet me?”
The grimace turned to a frown on her beautiful moon gilded features. “Do you ever go to the pet store and play with the puppies?” she asked in a cautious tone.
Shit, Marius thought. I’m caught.
Sair’s brows rose and he knew she’d heard his thoughts. “Yeeeeesss,” he replied, drawing out the single syllable of the word.
“This isn’t the same.”
Her sharply humorous statement hadn’t even faded from his ears before the outlines of her body began to shimmer. Marius had seen dragons shift before, their bodies becoming golden confetti in the air before solidifying. Sair’s shift didn’t take that long. The shimmer of her form took a split second and in the next moment, her human form disappeared, replaced by a grey wolf.
The wolf’s tail wagged and Marius smiled. Sair trotted over and thrust her cold, wet nose into his palm. He stroked her soft head and sank his fingers into her thick coat. Just like her human form, her wolf wasn’t big. Larger than a German Shepherd, but not nearly as large as other wolves he’d seen. She bumped against his legs, pushing him as her tail brushed his ass.
“You are all stuck on my ass tonight, aren’t you?” he teased.
You don’t like me admirin’ that firm masculine flesh?
“I didn’t say that. It’s just that other firm masculine flesh is crying out for attention.” With his free hand he stroked his cock.
You better hope no one sees you like this. Standin’ naked in the moonlight, pettin’ a wolf and strokin’ your dick. You’d get arrested and maybe sent to the psych ward.
Marius laughed and let go of his cock. “You’re right.”
When his fingers loosened on her fur, she dropped down to the ground and rolled to her back, displaying her belly. The fur there was lighter and he knew it would be softer. Kneeling beside her, her rubbed her belly with both hands, knowing that she had put herself in that vulnerable position to show him that she trusted him.
She whined as he stroked her and then shimmered. Instantly, her human form returned and Marius found himself stroking her naked belly, just above her mons. He grinned.
“Now, isn’t this convenient?” he murmured and slipped a hand between her thighs. He found her wet, her delicate folds slippery with arousal. She whimpered as he stroked her lightly.
Fitting his body between her thighs, he rubbed the tip of his erection in her wetness. She moaned, her hips surging toward him. With a hand on her belly, he held her down as she squirmed, trying to take his cock inside her.
“No, I don’t think so, my beautiful wolf.”
She gazed at him wide-eyed and moved urgently beneath his hands. “Yes. I want you. Please, Marius.”
“Oh, you’ll have me, just not like this.”
Deftly, with a swiftness and strength that gave away his preternatural nature, Marius flipped her onto her belly, then pulled her up on her hands and knees. Briefly, his palms caressed her ass cheeks. He pushed them apart and rubbed the head of his cock against the pink pucker of her anus. Her moans grew louder and she thrust her hips backward, silently begging him to take her in the ass.
“Not tonight, little wolf. But soon,” he whispered.

Alessandro - A demon with a mission

2010-10-30T10:23:00.002-04:00

This interview is not one of our usual. Instead of Kate from Got Romance asking questions, we have unearthed the interview between Alessandro from Demons Love Cinnamon and his superior demon in Hades on the occasion of his application to spend Halloween on Earth. We can’t tell you how we got this…but Valerie Mann’s hair is still looking a bit singed at the ends.
She did alter the name of the interviewer, something about how just saying his name brings on a hundred year curse… So we will just call him Bob.

Bob: So, Alessandro, my boy, after all these years! Finally you volunteer to go to on the Halloween mission. I have to tell you this interview is being recorded for later transcription and possible torture and/or dismemberment of one or both parties.
Alessandro: Yes.
Bob: Wanna get you some of that hot Earth hoochie mama, huh?
Alessandro: Well, not exactly. I would just like to take a look around, you know, see the sights.
Bob: And of course…?
Alessando: Of course what…sir?
Bob: All joking aside, you know this is the one opening we have to sneak some untainted souls down here. That’s the only reason the boss even lets everyone go. He’s all business you know.
Alessandro: Of course, sir. I understand. Are we done?
Bob: Not quite. I have to ask, why now? All these hundreds of years, you showed no interest.
Alessandro: Well I had my responsibilities. Finally I have an assistant who can cover while I’m gone.
Bob: Dude, don’t try to piss down my back and tell me it’s raining. You know damn well we could have found someone for your desk. You have the seniority.
Alessandro: I don’t know, really. I just know I have to go. It’s a compulsion.
Bob: Well go ahead, and have fun. Just remember your job and bring back a soul, the purer the better.
Alessandro: Right
Bob: And remember, if you fail in your mission, it’s the lowest pits for you, no matter how much seniority you have. We’d miss you up here in Admin, but it’s the rules!
Alessandro: We done here?
Bob: Yeah we’re done. I guess. I still wonder what’s got you going this time. Just be sure and get yourself some Earth ass for me. I’d go myself, but this year my boss is going and I have to cover. Damn bastard! Of course I could make you cover for me…
Alessandro: Oh, of course. Have a good time sir.
Bob: Have you no sense of humor whatsoever? You’d better get out of here now before I change my mind and chain your ass to this desk.

Recording ends here…

but you can find out what happens next by picking up Demons Love Cinnamon at http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-demonslovecinnamon-477891-140.html.

Brom Bones is here today from Sleepy Hollow

2010-10-28T10:25:00.002-04:00

GR: Today we’re glad to have with us Brom Bones from Sleepy Hollow.
Welcome Brom Bones. Brom is short for something right?

Brom: My real name is Abraham Von Brunt but because of my incredible strength of limb I have earned the nickname Brom Bones.

GR: I understand that there are some misconceptions about you that you might be able to help us clear up.
First, what can you tell us about a young lady you have been rumored to have an interest in…a Katrina I think?

Brom: Well, (((scratches head))) yes that is the rumor. Do not misunderstand. Miss Katrina Van Tassel is a lovely girl. Though she cannot sing a note, she loves a good scheme and I suppose that is what I like about her. As a friend. I must stress, it is just a rumor that we are courting. My interests lie with someone else and that individual has a rather active imagination which I don’t need to rile by perpetuating a rumor about me and Miss Van Tassel.

GR: Hmmm…sounds interesting. Care to enlighten us who your jealous beau might be? Does she have a name?

Brom: Since most people in Tarrytown, New York in the eighteenth century where I live do not have access to the internet I suppose I can tell you this: it’s not a woman.

GR: Really? Well, aren’t you just full of surprises, Brom Bones?

Brom: So it would seem.

GR: You care to give us the name of your lover?

Brom: No, but if you want you can read our story in ‘THE LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOLLOW’ rewritten correctly this time by Deanna Wadsworth http://deannawadsworth.blogspot.com

GR: Are you saying Washington Irving got the story wrong?

Brom: Not wrong, per se. He just left out all the good parts.

GR: Its common gossip that you have a liking for a good prank? Was that part of the original story true?”

Brom: (((laughs))) I’m always up for a fight or a frolic. I find sometimes that a good practical joke is the only way to get a person’s attention if that person is intent on ignoring you.

GR: I’m assuming you are referring to your male love interest that you won’t tell us about. Now don’t you think that sometimes these kinds of jokes can go further than you intend?

Brom: Well that depends on what you mean by that. My last prank was impersonating the Headless Horseman and scaring the wits out of Tarrytown’s schoolmaster, Ichabod Crane. And as far as I am concerned, that turned out exactly how I wanted. Better even.

GR: I’d love to hear how you met your author Deanna Wadsworth and why you allowed her to write the true version of what happened in Sleepy Hollow all those years ago.

Brom: Miss Wadsworth calls herself ‘vanilla’ though I don’t really know what she means by that. She lives in Ohio, is married and has three dogs. Two cocks and a wiener. Cocker Spaniels and a Dachshund, respectively. She has a fascination with all kinds of bizarre and exotic things and these often finds their way into her writings. After we read what she did with Red Riding Hood, we knew she was the writer for us. (http://www.decadentpublishing.com/product_info.php?cPath=1_49&products_id=137&osCsid=8dhn7e85nsk58mv44fkjrjn0o2

GR Then you would say you have a good working relationship with Deanna?

Brom: Definitely. I chat with her on Facebook all the time (add these links too please!) http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001206469235 and a friend of mine is hosting interviews on her blog right now. http://deannawadsworth.blogspot.com Icha—I mean, my lover and I thought she would be the perfect one to tell our story while keeping with the old fashioned writing style of our time.

GR: Oops! You almost spilled the beans. But it sounds like we will have to read your book THE LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOLLOW if we want to know what really happened. Where can we find this book?

Brom: THE LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOLLOW comes out October 23, 2010 from Decadent Publishing http://decadentpublishing.com and soon after that you will be able to order it at Amazon for your Kindle.

GR: Thanks for visiting us today. I know the readers will be thrilled to learn so much about you and your author, Deanna Wadsworth, as well. She sounds mondo talented, and I see why you chose her to tell the tale.

Please Welcome Elisabeth, a Witch Who Has Come For Tea

2010-10-25T22:37:00.004-04:00

Hi Elisabeth, thank you for coming to visit with us today. We’ve had lots of wild characters about the place and I’m delighted to have another witch to chat with. Finally, someone normal!

First off, would you like some tea? Or maybe something a little stronger? And we have some delightful mini-chocolate cupcakes and finger sandwiches…no, not real fingers! The werewolf last week was highly disappointed to find cucumber and cream cheese only.

Ok, now, to the interview…
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Well, first, thanks so much for having me. The sandwiches and tea look absolutely delightful and I’m sure all of your guests have been delighted with your baking skills. About me, well there’s not much to say. I am what you could call, a cross stitch witch. My magic came quite by accident when one of our servants tried to cast a spell on me in the mid-1800’s. Somehow it was reversed and I became immortal with the ability to sew things to life.

I enjoy gardening, spending time with my love, Marcato, baking and, of course, sewing.

Do you find being a witch to be an advantage in everyday life?

It has its moments of worth, but for the most part, I do for myself. I do count my garden my special pride when it comes to my magic. The flowers are all creations of mine, every flower and plant lovingly sewn with my own hands—the same hands that wash my dishes.

I’m particularly interested in your cross-stitching…any projects going at the moment?

Well, Marcato asked me to make him some mittens since winter is coming here in Wisconsin. I’m considering adding a little something to them. He’s not like most men of this time who get all squeamish if their apparel has a bit of fancy on them. Perhaps a moose or something similar would be appropriate for my fine man.

Is there anything special about your work…magickal?

Most days, no. Although, I will modestly say that most people who appreciate the finery do see something beyond most others skills—but doing anything for 200 years makes for a certain level of perfection. My works only take on a magical tone during full moons. For some reason when I stitch during that time, whatever I am making comes to life. My gardens, for instance, were created over many moons. I have to be especially careful during those times not to create something that I’d have a hard time reversing.

If I were interested in learning more about cross-stitch, any suggestions?

I would recommend heading to your local senior center or nursing home to really learn the stitches. A good book is wonderful, but it is the human touch in crafts that make them worth doing.

I understand Stephanie Beck has been helping write some of your adventures? How did you two meet?

Stephanie, just a honey she is. We met after Marcato returned to my life. He met Stephanie through her work with his partner at the Demon Hunters Guild, Pammy. Apparently she writes about the Freak Sorority’s antics and after I read a few of those stories, I realized she was the one to ask to write down what happened with me and Marcato.

I hear she has something in the oven? Cupcakes?

Ha, she always has cupcakes in the oven! Or bread or something equally delicious. She’s also expecting a little boy in the winter. She’s in Minnesota so I know she’s been plying her own craft trade—knitting in preparation of that wonderful event. Don’t tell her, but I’ve got a mind to stitch a few plants for her children. No one appreciates beauty quite as much as children do.

If we would like to read more about you, how can readers find you and Stephanie?

Well, I’m not so much to read about, just a cross stitch witch who minds her business and is busy being in love with her man. But you can find more about Stephanie and her Freak Sorority at www.stephaniebeck.net and also at www.facebook.com/StephanieBeckAuthor. So much technology, it makes me yearn for my days in the 1800’s…right until I need to use the rest room.

Thanks so much for sharing with us. Maybe we can get together sometime and share brew…err… stew recipes!

That would be lovely! I’ve got a wonderful recipe for a rabbit stew. And of course, since I understand you’re a California girl, we’ll have to add a side of good Wisconsin cheese curds to it as well. Thanks so much for having me.

Hunny Lapin, Bunny Shifter, is in the HOUSE

2010-10-23T23:54:00.001-04:00

1. Good evening. Can you tell our readers a little about yourself?

Hi. I'm Hunny Lapin. (plasters fake smile across my face) I like small animals, men in uniform, and saving the world. Yep, I'm a regular Miss Universe. Seriously though, I'm a bunny shifter so I do like small animals, especially if they are related to me, which odds are if they are bunny shifters, they are. I have a craving for men in uniform, especially bad boy Officer Drake. All tatted up and yummy. I accidentally fell into saving the world, having… ummm… stumbled across a piece of information I shouldn't have. Okay, okay, I hacked into my vamp boss's database and snagged some classified information.

2. I understand you have a boyfriend who has an interesting job

I wouldn't exactly call Officer Drake a boy-friend. He's no boy. Drake is all man, genetically enhanced EVERYWHERE, if you get my drift. He's a supercop, specially designed to protect and serve. He rids the streets of baddies, real baddies like the blood suckers and wolfboys. Yeah, he is a tough guy but he has a weakness for bunny softness. (blushes)

3. And what kind of job is it you do yourself?

I find those files you delete. Please stop doing that. It is annoying.

After you spend your lunch hour surfing the… well… the naughty sites, I rid your computer of those nasty viruses you 'mysteriously' get. News flash: Computer goddesses are all powerful. I can see where you surfed so there's no point spinning some story.

My forte is liberating information from restricted databases. That forte earned me a stint in the clink so my job isn't always all sunshine and roses.

4. I would think it would be hard to be a bunny shifter with all the bigger shifters around. Are they hard to deal with?

(Sighs) I get that question a lot. Maybe back in prehistoric times, natural defenses mattered, but as the Godrabbit, aka my Uncle Flopsy, likes to say, 'A big gun will more than compensate for lack of fangs.' In my case, the big gun is carried by Officer Drake (and no, I'm not referring to the one in his pants though that is nice also, quite nice).

Bunny shifters have other abilities like… our hearing is excellent and… (nose twitches as I think) we can make ourselves very small and we're fast where the expression quick as a bunny comes from and… did I mention we have excellent hearing?

5. What is it like working with your author?

I wouldn't say I worked with her, exactly. Cynthia Sax followed me around, scratching cryptic notes in her stenobook. Yeah, she used pen and paper. How primitive is that? She asked me most of the questions. Between you and me, I think she's a bit intimidated by bad boy Officer Drake. He looks scary with his bald head, tatts, and grim face, but he is a softie.

BTW… I dug into Cynthia Sax's past and… well… she doesn't have any. Either she lived her life off the grid or she's not who she claims to be. Either way, she's not completely on the up and up.

6. How can readers reach you and buy your book?
Badge Bunny is available for purchase here
http://www.changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1452
Officer Drake is on the cover.
Doesn't he look yummy?

Cynthia's site is here
http://cynthiasax.com/
Check it out. Notice the lack of entries before December 2009. I can assure you the woman is older than that. Yeah, I know. Very suspicious.

7. Anything you’d like to add?

Officer Drake says I talk too much so I better not add anything. Oh, some readers have been asking about Uncle Flopsy's story. That bad, bad bunny's story (The Godrabbit) will be out for Easter 2011 'cause nothing says Easter like vamp slaying mafia bunny shifters.

Blurb:
My name is Officer Drake. I'm genetically enhanced to be the best damn policeman there is. I can snap a werewolf in two. I can outrun a car. That's not boasting. Those are the facts.
I'm designed to protect and serve, and when I spot a plush little bunny shifter by the name of Hunny Lapin, that is exactly what I do. I protect her from a strip club owning vampire and serve up her every desire in bed. 'Course, that lands me in a whole heap of trouble, but it's nothing I can't handle. I'm a supercop, remember?
Excerpt:
"When was the last time you got laid, Drake?" This is my partner's idea of clever conversation. Shoot me now. To clarify, that isn't partner in the sexual sense. Hell no, I don't swing that way and even if I did, I'd never be that desperate. We're cops. Wright's got my back, most times, when he isn't juggling two exotic dancers on his lap.
When was the last time I got laid? When was the last time Wright groped a waist wider than a toothpick? Two dancers are needed to fill up the man's lap. I eye their skinny bodies with disinterest. It would take five of those chicks to satisfy my larger appetite.
I'm a big guy. I prefer to play with women my own size. That means yummy mommies with hand-filling curves, not little girls with pokey elbows and ribs I can count.
"Fuck off, Wright." I sip my scotch. The other undiscerning dickheads come here after hours for the tits and ass. I come here for the drinks. The Fox Hole doesn't water down their alcohol like other strip bars do.
"There's your answer." Sarge laughs like a hyped-up hyena shifter. Before you give him respect he doesn't deserve, his rank isn't sergeant. The asshole just acts like one, barking out orders any sensible cop will ignore if he wants to stay alive. "You know, Drake, you'd get lucky more often if you didn't act like such a scary son-of-a-bitch." Sarge pats down his lap mate. I've seen him handle his gun with more passion than he's touching his nearly nude stripper. "Hell, even the badge bunnies leave you alone, and they'll do anyone in uniform."
I grunt at his piss poor advice. It doesn't warrant a proper response, and for your information, I don't act. I am a scary son-of-a-bitch -- genetically enhanced to be the best damn policeman there is. I can snap a werewolf in two -- those furry buggers are notoriously hard to subdue. I can outrun a car, even one jacked up on rocket fuel. I sniff the recycled air. I can smell strawberries in a room full of sweat, pussy, and cum.
I turn my head slightly. There she is. Golden brown hair frames a round face dominated by a pair of big brown eyes and a twitching nose. That's a woman. Hunny Lapin -- despite her porn star name -- is everything I consider fresh and clean and wholesome. What's she doing here? I have no idea. I've seen her before so I know she isn't lost.
She sure doesn't fit in though. Why? She's fully clothed, for one. Her plush body is clad in a fluffy pink sweater and a knee-length skirt. For another, she starts at every loud noise. This is ridiculous as she's in a strip bar, not a library. The tone-deaf DJ throws on a new hip-hop song and she jumps. Naked bodies smack together as they tend to do in strip bars and she trembles. Krag Fox's men holler at each other, and she flinches.
Meatheads are positioned at all doors tonight. Someone is in deep shit. I'd step in and ensure this someone doesn't die a slow and painful death in one of the vamp's backrooms. But this is the Fox Hole. Anyone here I'll end up either arresting or killing. Fox, bless his non-beating heart, is simply doing my job for me.
The scent of strawberries intensifies and a wave of horniness engulfs me. Hunny is hurrying this way. She doesn't glide like some high-class chicks do. She bounces and all body parts -- I drop my gaze -- I mean all body parts bounce with her. Damn, she has a fine pair of breasts. I lick my lips, hungry for a taste.
Some men claim that more than a handful is a waste. I think they're full of shit. The bigger, the better, and Hunny's pair are at the top of my big breast list. They're even finer because they're real. One blast of cold air and those nipples can be listed as deadly weapons. They also jiggle when she jiggles, which is what she was doing now. I'd sit back and enjoy the show except every so often she fervently glances behind her at Fox's approaching goons. The girl is in trouble. Help me, she mouths. Those brown eyes widen with fear.
This is none of my damn business. I recognize that. I don't know her and if she messed with Fox bad enough to warrant a death sentence, she can't be as sweet and innocent as she appears. But I'm trained to protect, and Hunny needs my protecting. The cop genes kick in. I pull her onto my lap so she straddles me – panty-covered pussy to pant-covered cock. I grow hard 'cause I'm human. Soft angora rubs against my face. The pastel pink sweater, as nice as it feels, unfortunately has to go. Fox's men can spot it a mile away. I yank it upward over her head and drop it on the permanently sticky floor.
"Whoa, Drake." Wright gawks at me, his big mouth open. "It was just a suggestion. I didn't expect you to get laid right here."

Zarek, Talree and Ian McGregor..Three Deadly Warriors in one Interview

2010-10-23T16:46:00.000-04:00

“Today we’re talking with three of universe’s deadliest warriors. Zarek, Overlord of the Coletti Clans, his son, Talree also a Warlord and Ian McGregor, a Highland warrior turned way back in 1186. Gentlemen and I’m using this term loosely, please remember we have a no biting, fighting or mind control clause in our contract.”

Three sets of dangerously predatory eyes locked on me. “Okey-dokey, moving right along, Zarek how did you meet your mate, Detja?

Zarek’s smile was the scariest thing I’d ever seen. “She stole a Ditrim crystal from me and gave me the one finger salute as she made her getaway. That’s when I knew she was the one for me.”

“It took you, the ultimate predator, over six months to track Detja down.”

“She’s a very resourceful thief.” There was pride in Zarek’s voice.

“Detja was furious when you bought her from her father for the unbelievable price of one credit. Is it true this itty-bitty female managed to drug you, the most feared Warlord in the galaxy, lock you in a shipping container and put you on a ship bound for a penal colony?

The Overlord bared his fangs menacingly. “Her actions were unexpected but added spice to the chase.”

“Right, I imagine your ego was a bit dented?”

“Not at all, I was intrigued. I had lost two mates to the Alliance hunters and Detja’s ability to take care of herself made her the perfect mate.”

“Your home planet, Tanis, was almost destroyed six hundred years ago. My sources say that the chemicals used in the Great War created a genetic anomaly and only one female baby is born for every one thousand males. Faced with extinction you now raid other species for their women. Is that true?”

“For hundreds of years the Alliance High Command has put all their resources into exterminating our entire race. I take as many psychic females as necessary to ensure our survival.”

“And if they are unwilling?”

“Once the mate bond kicks in they belong to us mind, body and soul.”

“There’s no escape for these captive brides?”

“None.” Zarek eyed me like I was fresh meat and he was very hungry. “You have psychic abilities.”

“No! I don’t. You’re mistaken.”

“I never make mistakes.”

Crap. Kaylee was right. Zarek did make Darth Vader look like Little Orphan Annie. Swallowing hard, I quickly turned to Talree. “Warlord, how did you meet Kaylee?”

“Kaylee’s a Siren. She’s used her psychic abilities as an early warning system to keep Earth safe from the Tai-Kok and Rodan. She was mentally scanning her section of space for the Tai-Kok when I sensed her and I knew instantly she was my mate.”

“Wow! Just like that? Then why did Kaylee say and this is a direct quote, ‘I had an alien asshole stuck in my head who had a regrettable tendency to growl like a pit-bull.’”

“She was reluctant at first to accept me as her mate but I quickly changed her mind.”

“Because you generously offered to save Earth from annihilation?”

“Yes. The fate of both our worlds are intertwined. We must work together to stop my brother Malik and the Tai-Kok from destroying the galaxy.”

“Then why is Earth still on your to do list to conquer?”

Both Warlords said in unison, “We do what we must to ensure the survival of our people.”

A warning growl sounded from McGregor. “Conquer my world? Think again.”

With the eyes of death itself, Zarek and Talree rose from their chairs. “You think you can defeat us, vampire?”

“Whoa! Hold on a minute. No fighting. Remember?”

Talree flashed his fangs at me. “You think you can stop us, female?”

Oh hell no. “Please sit down. You do remember the penalty clause in the contract, right?”

All three warriors reluctantly sat down.

“Mr. McGregor you met your mate, Bunny, when she blew up your 1968 cherry red, mint conditioned Mustang.”

“Aye, she is a little she demon.”

“Bunny also skunked your 1964 Ford Cobra Shelby. That had to make you a bit angry.”

“Very angry. Challenging a Highland warrior is never a good idea.”

“You told her that you were going to hunt her down and fuck her till she screamed.”

“Aye and I did.”

I squirmed in my seat. Ian McGregor was one sexy dude. “What’s the greatest change you’ve seen in your eight hundred years?”

“Cars. Automobiles are mankind’s greatest invention.”

“Bunny told me you have over a thousand of them.”

“Aye, I’m a bit of a collector.”

“I’d thought a Highland warrior would feel more comfortable with a mighty steed between his legs.”

“I prefer a woman between my legs.”

Yikes. He’d give Don Juan a run for his money. “Gail Koger wrote all three of your stories. How did you meet her?”

“I saw the terrific job she did on writing the alien assholes stories and put the whammy on her. She’s now working on my mate’s book Bunny The Equalizer.

“What’s Gail like?”

“She’s a bit nuts but if you ignore the twitch in her left eye and keep her supplied with chocolate she’s good.”

“How can our readers find you and buy your books?”

A low growl sounded from Talree. “His book is not completed yet but if you want to learn about the Coletti Warlords you can find our stories, Just My Luck and The Warlord’s Comeuppance at www.whispershome.com or www.gailkoger.com.

“Any thing else you gentlemen want to add?”

“Buy our books or we will destroy Earth.”

“I’m outta here.”

Just My Luck blurb:

Kaylee Jones is a trouble magnet and chaos and disaster are her faithful companions. A powerful psychic, it’s her job to protect Earth from alien predators who consider our world an all-you-can-eat banquet. Unfortunately, her success at killing these alien freaks puts her on their most wanted list and lands her in a prison cell. Her roommate? A very hungry vampire. Okay, he’s really a Coletti Warlord who decides to make her his mate. Doesn’t matter that she’s not willing and this mate thing means he owns her mind, body and soul. She’ll admit the sex is hot and the bossy jerk has agreed to save our world from annihilation. But, the bad news is, Warlords aren’t benevolent do-gooder types and there is a price for his help. Our women. And the really bad news is, her Warlord’s low-down conniving brother has joined forces with our alien freaks and now we have to stop them from destroying both our worlds!!

Buy link:

http://www.whispershome.com/book_pages/just_my_luck.html

The Warlord's Comeuppance:

Stealing from a warlord and giving him the one finger salute as I made my getaway was not the brightest thing I’d ever done. Okay, it was an incredibly stupid stunt.

Did I mention that this particular Coletti warlord is the most feared in the entire galaxy? That Zarek’s the ultimate predator and even the other warlords are scared spitless of him? That he never ever stops until he either captures or kills his prey?

Yeah, I have the big, bad after me and all because of one little finger. Okay and a Ditrim crystal the size of my fist. Am I worried? Of course, only an idiot doesn’t fear a very angry Coletti warlord. But, I am very good at what I do. Bad news is, so is Zarek.

Buy Link:

http://www.whispershome.com/book_pages/the_warlords_comeuppance.html

Today Traian is going to tell us about his life in Bound By Obsession

2010-10-22T10:41:00.000-04:00

1. Good evening. Can you tell our readers a little about yourself?
I’m Traian, the third son of Adnan Komar. Everyone I call friend knows me as Tray. I have three brothers. Ivan, the oldest, is on a power-trip due to his high-ranking designation in our culture. Keep a wide-berth around him, he bites. You may have met Lucas. Recently, he got his head out of his ass and patched things up with his mate, Katiya. That leaves Mikhail, my closest brother and partner in crime. Right now, I’m not mated. I doubt I ever will be. Out of all the younglings my parents had, I’m the only who lucked out, looking like my grandfather. We both have long blonde hair and green eyes. I live in a cushy penthouse in the center of Westwood, Los Angeles. I’m a techno-wizard, and have a network the good ole Feds would drool over. I have a special talent called a Híbe. With this ability, I am able to manipulate nerve endings for either pain or pleasure. It’s handy in the torture department, too. If you were to ask my sister, Anna, what is unique about me, she’d say I’m the scary one in the family. I don’t sharpen my fangs or have claws, but I do have a temper and I’m not above eliminating threats. Mikhail deals with the bodies.

2. What do you find most challenging about being a vampire?
I don’t consider myself a vampire. We use blood to elongate our lives, keep healthy, and for procreating with our mates. Life would suck, yes, pun intended, if I had to skip out on eating delectable foods, forgo enjoying a cold brewskie, and sleep in a casket. The most challenging thing about being Kan Asma is knowing I can’t choose my own mate. I must wait for the Elders to find me a female, and keep my fingers crossed she won’t select me. It’s total crap. Especially if the woman you want is human and the Council won’t let you have her. Freaking bullshit, I say.

3. Do you find that people have a hard time accepting you, just because you’re a vampire?
We are a tight-knit community and keep our secrets to ourselves. No one in America even has an inkling about our existence. If they did, they’d be, well, dead. However, some thirty years ago, we were found out by a government bent on learning all about us. They didn’t approach it kindly. Many of our people died, while others are still being held as lab rats. Those of us who are refugees keep our lips locked about our kind. We might be strong and dangerous but there is strength in numbers. Being overrun at our most vulnerable time, in daylight, is not something any of us want to relive. Especially me, I’ve been there and done that. So, people do have a hard time accepting us, and I have many scars to prove it.

4. How old are you?
I’m sure you couldn’t guess how old I am. I’m coming up on my second century. And, yes, the years of experience do make me better in bed.

5. What is it like working with your author – is she susceptible to your charms?
Miss Paige is easy to speak to as long as she isn’t being badgered by one of her cops, or hogged by that new BDSM master who’s story is taking up all her time. I’d like to show him a thing or two about floggers, and not in a pleasurable way. I’ll vamp up and admit I haven’t been easy on her recently. I can be prig-headed, demanding, and angry. She probably won’t say it out loud, but sometimes I think I might frighten her. I don’t mean to, but what she wants to do with my future mate infuriates me. Sometimes she can forget that I can be one scary Mother… Uh… sorry, forgive the vitriol. I have had to remind her a couple times that Mikhail is the player and I’m dead serious. I expect that we will come to an amicable conclusion, soon. If not, well, I might have to bare my fangs and show her who is really in charge here.

6. How can readers reach you and buy your book?
Right now you can only see me in my sister Anna’s book. Also, a bit about me is in my brother Luke’s story. Keep your eyes open though in 2011. I expect to have my tell-all released in the new year. And, I’m the lucky one who got to go full-length first. Miss Paige has informed me that I have a bit of a fixation when it comes to my mate, so she’s aptly named my book, Bound By Obsession. Hey what’s a male to do when the lady he wants can’t be his and murder isn’t an option?

7. Anything you’d like to add?
Christa neglected me while she attended to a detective. After watching his story unfold, I understand why she devoted so much time to Tyler Mason and his love. His story is worth telling and he gets his woman at the end. Maybe that will be my fate, too. I’d say the cop has some wicked seduction tricks up his sleeve. While you are waiting for my story to come out, you might want to watch Mason charm the swimsuit right off of Sophia in, Star Spangled Kiss. Other than that, if you have any questions for me, send them to Christa at christapaigeauthor@gmail.com . While Mikhail lauds every fan-mail that comes in, I’m not adverse to a few letters myself. Go sparingly on the perfume though, I do have heightened senses.

Here is an excerpt of Bound By Obsession:

Soft footfalls captured Tray’s awareness. Settling back in his chair, he tried to tamp down the aggression simmering in his blood. He just needed a minute to see her. To make sure she was happy. Then, he would get the hell out of there and continue on with his miserable, lonely life.
The door opened and he couldn’t help his automatic response. Turning his head, the instant she walked through the threshold, he watched her stride into the chamber. Oh Christ, she had grown up and the infatuation he had felt those many years ago shattered into a million bits and was replaced by a desire so great, so intense that it was a wonder he didn’t bolt out of his chair, back her to the wall and claim her, irrevocably, as his.
Making a fist, he clenched every muscle in his body, forcing himself to remain seated. But it was a hard task to endure. She brushed past him and walked behind her desk. A mixture of expensive perfume and natural femininity tickled his nose, teasing his senses. He tracked her every step, watching the way she moved. Beautiful did not even begin to describe the woman now standing in front of him. Though, it was immediately apparent that she tried to stifle her looks by hiding them with nondescript clothes. But it hardly mattered. The way her plain black, A-line skirt hugged her hips and tight ass did something to his pulse. It kicked up, pumping double time as he imagined running his hands over those curves, gripping tightly and pulling her against him. Then they would be thigh to thigh, chest to breast; no space separating them.
But what if she is a mother, married, not available for your torrid needs? He admonished himself. No matter the truth, he had little power to rip his stare away. It settled at those lovely swells, gently hugged by a silky pin-striped blouse. He could make out the line of her bra. It was plain white with a front clasp. Perfect for easy removal.
Hell! Shaking his head, he battened down the lustful images flitting through his mind and steeled himself for the moment when their eyes would meet. Would she recognize him? Damn, but he wanted her to remember him. It would make things a little easier. Perhaps, it would soothe the beast inside which he struggled to keep caged behind an aloof mask.
A sliver of a second ticked by and he tipped his head back just enough to see her face. The instant he saw her mouth, the line of her lips pursed together, he had to quell the urge to soften them with his kiss. He wanted to nibble and, suckle there until the dusky flesh was swollen and bee stung. As if somehow his thoughts reached her, the tip of her tongue slid out and moistened the bottom lip. His pulse jacked up and his body hardened an instinctive reaction to such an evocative sight. She had pale skin, tinged with a natural blush which highlighted her cheekbones. That rosy flush stood out a little too much for his liking. It wasn’t age causing them to draw his notice. Instead, he realized belatedly her entire body had changed. Thin didn’t adequately describe the difference. More like, she hadn’t been taking good care of herself.
What the hell had happened to all those luscious curves?
Forcing his gaze up, he finally met her penetrating stare. Bethany’s eyes had always drawn him in and this happened once again. Wide and elegant, the almond shape gave her an air of innocence. The light brown had little flecks of gold dotted throughout the darker color. Most people would not be able to make out the different shades of amber but his preternatural eyesight allowed a deeper inspection. She met his look, lifted one finely arched eyebrow at his perusal.
“Are you finished?”
Her voice washed over him. Soft and yet concise, she knew that he had been checking her out. He grinned, “Not yet.” Taking his time, he deliberately continued his inspection allowing his stare to linger as he took in the bun containing her long auburn hair. His palms tingled wanting to pull the twist free so he could grip the thick tendrils as he brought her close, guiding her up to his hungry kiss.
God! And he was hungry. Starving even. He should have forced himself to take more from Tory’s vein. The reminiscence of that sour taste on his tongue made him recoil but he fought the urge to scowl. Diverting his focus back to Bethany’s lovely face, it took all his power to keep his fangs right where they were, retracted within his gums. No way in hell could he allow his base needs free rein. Not at his age. He did not pant and salivate like a horny teen! After all, he was the scary one of the family, cold and calculating. Hadn’t Mikhail reminded him of those lethal characteristics last night? Deadly, that was Tray in a nut-shell.
Bethany looked like the type who should have a man that cuddled and doted upon her. The kind of affection he gave would probably leave bruises.
The instant he thought of that, he found his stare fixed at her throat. He could almost see two neat puncture wounds, left from his imagined claiming. An overwhelming desire to bite her there, marking her as his, hit him like a fiery hot bolt of lust. Shifting in his seat, he gritted his teeth and willed his demons into submission. Not today. Not ever!
“Ok,” he said in a tone a tad deeper than normal. Luckily no other of his kind was around to hear that telltale edge in his voice.
“Ok, what?” she asked him with a business-like efficiency.
“I am done.” He almost laughed but only just smirked.
“Very well then,” Bethany retorted before sitting down into her big, leather chair. She leaned over and retrieved a file folder. Opening it, she set it on the blotter. Reaching for the pen, she looked directly at him, smiled, and asked, “What brings you here today, Mr. Komar?”
He drew in a lungful of air, waited and then exhaled. “You, Bethany.”

Please Welcome Angelica from Burning Love

2010-10-20T21:55:00.002-04:00

http://thepenmuse.net/archives/1526
1. Hi Angelica, it’s nice to meet you. It must be strange here with all the vamps and werewolves waiting to be interviewed. Can you tell us a bit about why you’re here on earth??

Shhhh! Don’t tell anyone I’m here on Earth! It’s strictly forbidden for angels to come down from Heaven and interfere with the affairs of mortals, but the two mortals I’m working with are so stubborn! Can’t they see they’re made for each other? I had no choice but to come to Earth and give them a good talking to. I’m desperate. If Iris and Riley don’t fall madly in love forever in the next six weeks, I’ll be booted out of Heaven’s Relationship division.

I had a few—shall we say—unfortunate incidents as I tried to find my perfect job in Heaven. Okay, so I messed up in Messenger division and accidently mixed up messages. The ninety-year-old great-grandmother actually took it quite well when I told her she was going to have a baby. And then I messed up the communication system in Divine Intervention division. Totally disabled it. My last screwup was when I accidently sent Avenger division after a poor old corn farmer in Iowa instead of the drug lord in New York City. All honest mistakes!

But this is my last chance. I can’t fail this time or I’ll spend the rest of the afterlife cleaning up and cooking for other angels in Service division. I’m too pretty to be a servant!

And by the way, Vampires and Werewolves are kind of scary. Very big teeth. I don’t like to be rude, but the Werewolves kind of smell like wet dog.

2. Are you having any trouble with humans?

Am I having trouble with humans? Let me tell you, sister. Iris and Riley are determined to make my life miserable. I know in my heart they’re perfect soulmates, but somehow they manage to resist each other. Honestly, humans!

3. Oh, hi, can you please introduce us to your friend? Looks like she’s an angel too.

This is Hildegard, my supervisor in Relationship division. And she’s my friend too. Don’t let that buttoned-down, sensible-shoes look of hers fool you. Beneath that brown tweed suit beats the heart of a rebel. She’s the one who insisted on breaking the rules and coming to Earth with me to help convince Iris and Riley they loved each other.

4. Can you share a bit about one of your adventures?

I found out that Hildegard and I have awesome angel powers. We can bend mortals to our will, make them do whatever we tell them. How cool is that? This angel stuff is great! Except when it stops working.

5. How did you meet your author?

Well, Jana thought I was such a fascinating character that she asked if she could write my story.

You mean our story, don’t you Angelica? You’re not in this alone.

Okay fine, Hildegard. Our story. And it’s Iris and Riley’s love story, too. They’re such a sweet couple. That’s why we have to get them together. Well, that and the deal we made. If my hunch about them being soulmates is right, you promised I could stay in Relationship division and help match up soulmates forever. Remember?

Yes, I remember. I won’t go back on my word.

6. What’s she like?

Who? Oh, you mean Jana Richards? Well, she loves to write all kinds of stories, from romantic suspense to contemporary romance, and historical romance to romantic comedy. She even likes to throw in a little paranormal now and then. Why else would she want to write a story about us angels?

7. How can our readers find you and buy your books?

Jana here. If you’d like to read more about Angelica and Hildegard’s adventures in “Burning Love”, check out my website at http://www.janarichards.net/Books.html You can link from there to my publisher’s website where you purchase my books. My books are also available on Amazon http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Jana+Richards&x=21&y=32 , Fictionwise (http://www.fictionwise.com/servlet/mwsearch ), and other fine on-line book stores.

8. Anything you’d like to add?

Just that I’d love readers to stop by my website at http://www.janarichards.net and say hello. You can also find me at http://prairiechickswriteromance.blogspot.com where I blog with a group of writer friends.

Thanks to Kate and Val at Got Romance for letting my angels come out and play with the vamps and werewolves.

Thanks for bringing some light into our Halloween gloom! Angelica is giving a copy of Burning Love to one lucky commenter...so pop in and say hi!

Please Welcome Max from Of Course I Try

2010-10-20T00:46:00.004-04:00

1. Good evening, Max. Can you tell our readers a little about yourself?
Hello and thank you for having me here.

A little about myself? I'm an investor, which means I make money by purchasing land and antiques at a bargain and reselling them for what they are truly worth. It's the world's easiest way to make a living, especially in this economy. To be honest though, when people are selling something for far less than it's worth due to need, I tend to throw in a little something extra. I've learned over the years that karma's a bitch, so I try to take care of good, honest people when I can.

The antiques are because of my love of history, specifically the first half of the twentieth century. Too many people neglect that era in favor of the imagined splendor of earlier periods or the nostalgia of the fifties forward. Every time has its hardships, but most ignore the work of the downtrodden in favor of riches. To me the time from World War I to World War II saw our nation in the most agony it's ever suffered, and the beauty that arose from the smoke and ashes is simply astounding.

(shakes off a faraway look)

I'm also fond of beautiful women and a good glass of wine—preferably red.

2. You seem to be a pretty take charge guy. Do you find that women respond to that quality?
While I don't let people walk all over me, I wouldn't necessarily consider myself take-charge. To me that implies ordering others around, and I don't like to do that. Especially since I have the ability to make you do whatever I want, even against your will. (pauses a moment while he lets that comment sink in) Using such powers to control people would make me little more than an animal, and an animal with a small brain at that. And I refuse to believe I'm not better than that.

I'd rather read people and lead them to what it is they really want. In my experience, an equal number of women are repelled by that as are drawn to it. Being with a man who can see that deeply into your soul is a frightening prospect for some.

3. How old are you?
That's a rather impertinent question now isn't it? Perhaps I should turn it around on you. How old do you think I am? (laughs after a long pause) Let's just say I'm old enough to know how to stay out of trouble and young enough to dive headfirst into it anyway.

4. What is it like working with your author – is she susceptible to your charms?
Seleste is…stubborn—she rarely listens to my advice on how things should go—but I know in her own way she adores me. Worships me really. You should see the dreamy expression she gets when she looks at my picture and plots the next bit of torture she plans to inflict. If I wasn't already so committed to Jocelyn…but I digress.
For those of you who are so inclined, here's a little snapshot into the way Seleste sees me (excerpt from Of Course I Try):
I cry out his name. The only word that matters. Max.
Soon enough, I can't even feel. Then there is nothing.
When I wake in the morning, everything is hazy. I remember coming over, remember the sex. The incredible, mind-altering sex, but then I'm blank. It isn't the first time.
There's a note on the pillow next to me.
Jocelyn,
I'm glad you came back. You have no idea how much I missed you.
Love forever,
Max
Something clicks in my brain, and I realize it isn't the first time I've read those words either.

5. How can readers reach you and buy your book?
The easiest way to reach me currently is through Seleste, she handles all my mail at her email: selestedelaney@gmail.com

As for my book, that is available at www.decadentpublishing.com as well as Amazon, All Romance Ebooks, Smashwords, 1 Romance Ebooks, and quite possibly other online retailers.

6. Anything you’d like to add?
Yes, a lot of people judge me by what they first see, but I'd caution them that there is much more to me than what is on the surface. Don't judge a book simply by its cover and that sort of thing.

Thank you very much for having me here.

Have a happy and safe Halloween, and as always, I recommend garlic and wolfsbane. Actually, skip the garlic—it doesn't work at all.

We have been graced with the presence of Claire Devereux

2010-10-19T00:08:00.001-04:00

1. Good evening. Can you tell our readers a little about yourself?

Good evening and merry meet Kate. As you know, my name is Claire Devereux and I'm a seventh generation witch. I'm married to a wonderful man who's also a gypsy. To say we've had an interesting marriage is only the beginning of that story. We have a lovely daughter, Simone, who's fallen into a bad situation with two poltergeists at the estate my late sister-in-law left to my daughter. Nasty business, but there's a serial killer who may have murdered Celeste. That's my main concern as I sit in the estate writing a spell that will relinquish the 100 year-old curse on the Irish brothers.

2. I understand you have a particular type of talent?

Yes, each of the women in our family line of witches has been blessed with a talent. Mine is the ability to touch/know. I touch objects and people to know what their history is and what they're feeling. Part empath, part historian, but I've learned to use my gift over the years with great success.

3. Is it difficult to function in ordinary life when you have so much other input coming to you?

When I was younger and newly married, I had difficulty handling my husband's clothes and objects. I would see other women from his life before me and just smolder with jealousy. My Aunt Margaret generously bound me with a spell so I couldn't use my gifts on my husband. I never told him, some things a witch does are private. Over the years, I've learned to compartmentalize my touch/know ability and only use it when there is a need. I work hard on my spells and am considered one of the foremost authorities in California with my coven.

4. Everyone always wants to know if a witch is white or black magickally inclined. What answer do you give to that?

That's a tricky question. To protect my family I would use whatever magick that works quickly and decisively. As a true witch, I have a responsibility to my family and coven. I try to stay ethical and don't use magick to force favorable decisions against someone's will. On the flip side of that coin, don't mess with my close loved ones or I can be a formidable witch. My wrath is deep, and knows no bounds if someone I love is in danger.

5. What is it like working with your author?

Cherie needed to do many rewrites to get the spell to work on the Irish brothers. I gave her a bit of trouble on that one; my emotions were all over the place. My daughter was in mortal danger, everything had to be perfect. Cherie also found me the herbs I needed at the last moment. Although, she put my husband and my daughter's lover at great jeopardy to do that. Overall, I think Cherie is flexible and as a witch herself, she's been supportive of my decisions to use black magick when necessary to ward off the serial killer. I appreciated that Cherie stuck close to the actual events that took place at the estate.

6. How can readers reach you and buy your book?

I live in San Francisco and all email can be sent to Cherie De Sues in San Diego at cheriedesues@gmail.com. You can find the author at one of her two websites at http://www.cheriedesues2.com or http://www.cheriedesues.com . Cherie can send the information on to me, but I might be slow to answer, I've had my hands full lately. The novel from our family's story can be found at Amazon or Noble Romance Publishing.

7. Anything you’d like to add?

As Samhain soon approaches, I'd like to offer your readers a spell to summon friendly spirits. You'll also find easy-to-follow instructions for a dumb supper, if you're so inclined, at Cherie's paranormal author blog, Irish Gypsy's Parlor.

To see or summon the spirits inside a home or cemetery, our family Grimoire suggests the following incense mixture. (A grimoire is a textbook of magic to create or learn about magical talismans, amulets, magical spells, charms, divination and summoning entities like angels, spirits, or demons.

1. Create your circle. I use spilt salt for this summoning.

2. Mix together aloe, pepper, musk, vervain, and saffron as a burning incense. If you know the person, add a bit of their perfume, aftershave, favorite flower, or their preferred tobacco when they were alive to attract their attention.

3. Use symbolic items to connect you to the entity. Their hair brush, car keys, comb or toothbrush would do nicely.

Use this incantation to bring the spirit to you.

I call the guardians of the Spirit World to hear my plea.

Guide me in this hour to bring ____ to me.

Those I do not call are not welcome in this place.

Only the soul known as _____ may enter this sacred space.

Repeat three times every ten minutes until you feel their presence in the room. This takes time and mental focus. You may feel their touch, their scent, a breeze upon your face or the candles may flicker. Now is the time to say your peace, ask your question or say goodbye. Once you've finished, remember to thank the guardians for guiding you.

Thank you for having me Kate.

Blessed Be. )0(

Thank you for coming Claire, and for sharing the spell for the readers. It's a good time to remember those who are gone ahead, and your gift is appreciated. Brightest Blessings to you and to Cherie as well.

Dangerous Love's Dirk and Ladislav Are Here in Person

2010-10-17T22:21:00.004-04:00

1. Hi Gentlemen, would you please tell us a little bit about yourselves.
D: I'm Dirk, he's Ladislav.
K: You don't strike me as the shy types, so how about a bit more info?
L: You're a witch.
K: Yes, is that a problem? You're a vampire.
L: Not as long as you mind your manners.
M: Ladislav, you're a guest. Park your attitude someplace in a cave and play nice. Sorry, Kate.
D: I'm the Master Prophet, Dirk. In the afterlife I'm a shape shifter and the leader of the Prophets. We are created accidentally when our careless vampire buds bite somebody and afterward, the human accidentally dies.
L: Bite me, Dirk. Those happy accidents keep your flock growing and give you something to do all day.
D: Don't quit your day job, Ladislav. Stand up comedians are a dime a dozen.
K: Okay, now that we've established Dirk's identity, how about your day job, Ladislav?
L: I am Ladislav Husek, the Ancient One, the leader of the vampire nation. We are the most powerful and largest legion of creatures in the afterworld.
K: No wonder Margie wanted safety measures around you. Do you like my copper bracelet?
L: Killjoy.

2. How do you know each other?
D: We have worked together about two hundred years, but who's counting? Prophets don't have a status in the afterlife and it really sucks. We're immortal but we aren't vampires, were, witches, faeries or any of those creatures. We enjoy creating mayhem and pain in defenseless humans as stress-relievers. We do a lot of work for vampires because they're busy doing vampire stuff.
L: Vampire stuff? Seriously, Dirk, you'd be bored out of your skull if we didn't funnel all these assignments your way. Vampires are normally quite peaceful creatures, but we have our issues. Rebels must be dealt with and there are vampires, like Wade Kairos, that can't seem to follow vampire law.
D: Did you have to bring his name up?
L: It's all over the book. It's not like he's a spoiler…although that ass Christophe spoiled him.
M: Ladislav, it's not nice to speak poorly of other characters.
L: When was the last time you had an attitude adjustment, Churchy, cuz you are really getting under my fangs.
M: You'd like that, but all I have to do is press the delete key and you're toast.
K: I think that's two rounds for Margie. What? Don't look at me that way, Ladislav or I'll cast a spell and rot your fangs.
D: Good one, Kate. I'd like to see that. Now we're getting somewhere.
M: Enough. As you can tell Kate, there's a huge amount of rivalry between Dirk and Ladislav. Dirk's flock is much smaller than Ladislav's nation, but they have a symbiotic relationship. It's strange but symbiotic nonetheless.

3. How do you deal with inefficient employees?
L: We kill them.
M: Nice, eh?
L: Here we go again. Don't you have a rosary to pray or something? Kate, darling, we don't have any of those human emotions or boundaries. If a vamp is out of line and can't be easily convinced to behave, we exterminate them. Simple. Why waste time trying to rehabilitate a creature that doesn't give a rat's butt about anything but where they're going to get their next pint of blood?
D: And we help Ladislav's Sergeant at Arms deliver the punishment. It's very rewarding work…. we enjoy it…it's fun…a creative way to spend eternity.
M: Dirk, are you done?
D: What? Is it a crime to enjoy your job? You do, hell you are always banging on that keyboard.

4. Speaking of that, how did you meet your author?
D: In a remedial writing class.
K: You have a crazy sense of humor, Dirk. But really, how did you meet?
L: Wade dragged her along to pick up a death certificate one day. Just showed up with her at my home in Brno. My life has been a public spectacle ever since. She's dragged me to more of these interviews and blogs than maggots on a corpse.
M: Geez, thanks Ladislav. I enjoy spending time with you, too, you freaking insomniac. How would you like me to . . . never mind.
K: Alrighty then, Dirk? How did you meet Margie?
D: Ladislav was having a little fun in a bar in Prague and needed my help. She was lurking. After that, she's pretty much followed me everywhere, too. Let me tell you, it's not good for my image to have a woman with her last name hanging around. Not good at all. In fact, Kate, I'll volunteer to do some favors for your witches if you take care of her for awhile.
K: Ahem, that would be a tall glass of wrong.
L: Another one. Geez, Churchy, don't you have any even half-evil friends?
M: Just you two.
5. How can readers find out more about you and maybe buy your books?
M: There are excerpts of Love Bites on the Noble Romance's website, on my blog, Romance With Sass: (check out an Interview with a Vampire), and on my website: RomanceWithSass.com . You can also read reviews on my website. The book is available from Noble Romance and from Amazon (Amazon-UK), All Romance Ebooks, OmniLit, pretty much any large Ebook retailer.
The sequel: Dangerous Love, is going to be out November 22 from Noble Romance. And the third book: Redemptive Love is in the pre-writing stages.
L: That means she's thinking about it.
M: Yes it does.
L: And can my picture be on the cover of Dangerous Love since I pretty much own the book? M: I'll talk to the artist, Fiona, about that and see what Wade and Jui think.
L: The place is full of killjoys. Dirk, I think we need to go make some of our own brand of fun.
M: Just be back in time for the release, boys.
D: Whatever.
K: Nice guys.
M: Ya think?
K: Not so much.

Carrick from Ambrielle Kirk's Liaison is Visiting Today

2010-10-17T11:54:00.002-04:00

1. Hi, please tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m known as Carrick and the meaning of that name is “Rock”. I have no surname—most demons don’t. I was given that name when my arch demon father ordered his servants to make a home for me in the caves when I was still a child. My home is among the rocks in the Otherworld. I am now a free roaming demon, but it has not always been that way. Have you ever felt like you were a prisoner of your own world? If so, you might understand my plight.

2. Where are you from?
I was born to a human mother on Earth, but have been residing in the Otherworld for most of my life. I was pretty much a prisoner there until I was summoned to Earth again by a witch. This witch is very special to me. You will find out why soon enough…I hope.

3. Do you find that people expect you to be bad all the time, being a demon?
Most people do expect me to live up to the reputation of a demon. For centuries, my kind have used humans either willingly or unwillingly for one thing, and that is their soul. You eat food to live and stay healthy. Don’t you? A demon’s food source is the soul and we need it to grow strong and thrive.

4. How did you meet your author?
You could say that I connected with my author through her soul. She is strong and determined and she was the only one that could tell my story to the world. I have always been quite the introvert, but it was so easy opening up to Ms. Kirk. She listens carefully without ridicule. There were times when we did not agree, but she bargains rather well. She let me into her world and I let her into mine.

5. How can readers contact you or buy your book?
I am a very busy man, yet I make time for readers and fans. Ms. Kirk agreed to take questions and emails for me. Here is her email address: ambrielle(dot)kirk(at)yahoo(dot)com. You may also keep up with me and other characters of my world at http://ambriellekirk.com and http://ambriellekirk.wordpress.com. The first book in the Soul Bond series, Liaison, is my story. My book is only the beginning, and as long as Ms. Kirk agrees to narrate the series, you will continue to read about more like me who are fated to live an eternity as a demon, hated and feared by humans. Do not let our reputation fool you—not all demons are deserving of ridicule. You will understand when you read the book.

Liaison: Soul Bond Book One by Ambrielle Kirk
Erotic Paranormal Romance

Blurb--

Fires raging in hell couldn’t match the hot, undeniable lust between a witch and a demon.

Hailed as Queen to her coven through the Ring of Power, Leona Moreau is the youngest witch leader to date. Lost in the Otherworld during her mother's reign, the Book of Power became Leona’s job to retain. Stuck in the Otherworld, Carrick struggles with an identity crisis and believes the Book of Power is the only bartering tool he can use to retrieve his soul from his evil, demonic father until Leona summons him to Earth. Attraction strikes between the witch and demon, but will Leona give up her fate as Queen to save Carrick’s soul?

Excerpt--
Leona crossed her arms over her chest and arched a perfect brow. "So, you do have it?"
Her insistency for the book matched his stubbornness to keep what was his. After all, her mother had given it up, so it was no longer hers. Why did she really call him? Was she trying to connect the book to the lost souls…and the lost souls to him? She didn’t trust him anyway and had even accused him of being a soul-stealer. "Yes, I have the book. If it’s the souls you are looking for, I couldn’t save them…or that of your mother. That demon died in a fire and carried them with him."
She cringed and shook her head.
"Tell me why you want it back." He had a feeling the reasons were more than keeping the knowledge away from demons.
"There are secrets that you should’ve never learned."
"Because I’m demon?" His father had told him that he would never fit in on Earth, despite his half-human blood. Humans were taught to fear their kind.
"That’s the main reason."
Would he be able to drag the others out of her? How could he explain to a witch that he had thought long and hard many times about bartering for his soul with her book? "Why is it so important to you if your mother gave it up?"
Leona stiffened, but drew in a deep breath before she answered. "She was possessed…not in the right state of mind when the demon lured her to hand it over. We know she made a terrible mistake."
"A terrible mistake, huh?" Carrick couldn’t read the language, but he had a hunch that the secrets it kept were important to Leona. What would’ve happened to her and her coven if he’d traded in her book? "You’ve managed without the book for several decades. This would imply that you or members of your coven know everything by heart. Why was this knowledge even written?"
"Demon, you ask too many questions!" She jumped up, rushed towards him, and tried to snatch his bag.
He grabbed her wrists, before they could reach his satchel, and clutched her to his chest. Blood rushed through his veins, quickening his pulse. No one touched his bag.
Curtains fluttered and whipped about as witch fury and demon intensity clashed. Chairs and furniture rattled against the floorboards. The crystal balls seated on the coffee table swirled with their magic and grew black. Candles went out and the scent of burnt wick fogged the room.
Carrick leaned in to bury his nose into her sweet-smelling hair. His face brushed against her soft cheeks, and she stiffened in his arms. Once her body relaxed, he released her wrist and snaked an arm around her waist.
Her chest pressed against his and her heart pounded with his own. With no desire to move away, he continued to absorb her scent. A shield of energy pushed at him. He recalled the summon's circle and her powers. It would take more than a witch’s spell to run him off. Little did she know, her powers were like a magnet to him. Leona was living proof that one so different from other humans could still live in the real world among them."I feel your power, Leona. Your energy could cause much damage. Do you use this for anything else other than destruction?"
Her eyes gleamed with anger as she struggled to break his hold. "I am not a witch of destruction. If it weren’t for you demons running amok, I might be able to devote all my time to healing."
"When was the last time you had a lover?" Carrick traced the soft outline of her jaw and paused to stroke the small cleft in her chin. She was so perfect and her floral perfume enchanted him. He couldn't get enough of her smell. Stroking the delicate curvature of her neck and collarbone, the pulse in her vein sped up under his fingertips. His hardened cock pressed against her belly. "When was the last time you used your energy to please yourself?"
Her eyelashes swept her cheeks as her body became pliant in his arms. "I…I don’t know."
Carrick wanted to give her what her body obviously desired. He understood her ache because he’d known the same for all of his life. His own urges consumed him and he needed… "You need release. That’s your problem, isn’t it?"
Leona parted her lips, but nothing came out. He licked his own, anticipating the taste of her.
"Well, I’d very much like to help you with the solution. Wouldn’t you enjoy that?"
Lust-filled eyes opened to meet his, but not before he spotted the flicker of doubt in them. Her opposition didn’t surprise him. After all, he’d known conflict all his life. He started to release her, but to his surprise, she took his hand and wrapped it around her waist.

Say Howdy to Latharn from Beyond A Highland Whisper

2010-10-16T00:11:00.003-04:00

1. Hi Latharn, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Good day to ye. Casts a furtive glance around the room while flexing massive arms. Do ye mind keeping your voice a bit low? If Deardha realizes my awareness travels out of the crystal, the vile witch will damn me straight to the abyss.
Relaxes a bit, a sad smile tugs at the corner of his sensuous, full lips. Have ye ever heard the saying, “Hell hath no fury like that of a woman scorned?” Well, I’m here to tell ye they should add a bit more to that phrase. Hell hath no fury like that of a woman scorned−and god help yer arse if the woman is a witch. I’ve been trapped in a crystal for over six hundred years, waiting for my beloved Nessa to finally speak the words to break the curse. I can speak to you and to my descendants guarding the crystal, but the curse forbids me to speak to Nessa when I appear in her dreams. Cocks a suggestive brow and gives a wicked grin. But e’en though I canna speak to Nessa, I communicate with her in other ways.
2. I understand you’re a real ladies’ man, what’s your secret?
Aye. My so-called charm is what landed me in this damn crystal. Folds arms across muscular chest and glowers. I have no idea why the lasses chase after me so. ‘Tis as if no one has ever shown them a bit of kindness. Mother said was because I always loved the bairns. Apparently, women tend to be rather tenderhearted toward a man who protects the little ones. Leans forward with a teasing wink. Of course, the lasses seemed verra satisfied with the way I treated them in other ways as well.
3. Any advice for modern men who would like to have more success with the ladies?
Eyes widen and shakes head. Hell no. The women of this time are complicated confusing creatures. Their beauty steals your breath away while their strange ideas boggle the mind. Frowns while thoughtfully tapping a finger against lips. But then again, they seem to like it if ye truly listen when they speak.
4. What’s under the kilt?
Warm, rich laughter rumbles accompanied with a wide smile Why a man’s pride of course! Another wicked wink And ye might take care about asking a Highlander such a question−he’s apt to show ye.
5. How did you meet your author?
Face grows thoughtful This strange flitting creature broke into my isolation one day. I believe she called herself a muse. She showed me the path to Maeve’s dreams so I might tell my story.
6. What’s she like?
Wide grin. Maeve Greyson? She’s a fine woman. Leans forward with a sympathetic nod. Of course, ye understand, she’s a bit addled and something of a dreamer but a good woman nonetheless.
7. How can our readers find you and buy your books?
Taps chin and frowns. I believe Maeve told me “Beyond a Highland Whisper” releases from a place called The Wild Rose Press in February 2011. Shakes head with a confused look. She also mentioned something about links to places where she can be found? Here. She told me to give you these:
Website: http://www.maevegreyson.com/
Blog: http://maevegreyson.blogspot.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Maeve-Greyson/201843591747
Twitter: http://twitter.com/maevegreyson
Beyond a Highland Whisper Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9gqnYdghYY
8. Anything you’d like to add?
Eyes narrow and casts a worried glance around the room again. My time grows short. I’d best be getting back lest Deardha sense my energy. I’ve truly enjoyed our visit. The cold isolation of my prison sometimes gnaws at the edges of my sanity. Maeve said ye might like a bit of a peek into our tale. She asked that I give ye this passage where Nessa and her friend Trish have finally arrived in Scotland. By the way, please excuse the part about my nephew Brodie. The lad and his wife have no’ been married verra long and canna keep their hands away from each other:
Latharn stared across the room, flattening his hands against the frigid walls of his prison. It was her. She had arrived at last. His Nessa stood in Scotland, sharing the same room as the accursed globe. She was beautiful. The sight of her stole the breath from his lungs. He clawed his fingers against the glass, itching to touch the silk of her hair. He yearned to caress her, to take her into his arms. She was so close. She was almost within his reach.
“Nessa,” he whispered.
“Excuse me. I was wondering if you could give us some directions? I must’ve gotten an out-of-date map at the airport.”
A flustered redhead stood tapping her fingers on the counter where she’d already spread out a several-times refolded map. Her face was dark as a storm cloud; it was obvious she and her companion had been having a heated discussion. The elfin brunette stood just behind her. The brunette was not happy. She leaned against the counter glaring at the redhead. A disgruntled look upon her face, she rested her head on her hand as though she’d rather be anywhere but standing beside the redhead.
Latharn tore his eyes away from Nessa long enough to sneak a glance at Brodie. “God’s teeth, Brodie.” The man’s cock stood at full attention making a pup tent of the front his kilt. If they were outside, Latharn would call up an icy rainstorm to help the man bring things under control. Scrubbing his face, Latharn chuckled to himself and leaned against the crystal wall. Well, the lad was on his own, he’d just have to keep his randy arse behind the counter.
Brodie coughed and adjusted the front of his kilt as he edged closer behind the waist-high counter. His voice a bit strained, he cleared his throat and smiled at the two young women.
“Where might ye be headed? I’ve not seen ye here in town before. And from your accent, I don’t believe ye’re from anywhere near Balnakiel.”
The tiny brunette grinned, her face lighting up with a victorious smirk as she nudged the redhead in the shoulder. “I told you we overshot Durness an hour ago and you should’ve turned right at the last burial cairn!”
“That’s my girl,” Latharn purred. He loved it when Nessa showed her fire. She looked tired. What he wouldn’t give to massage all the aches and pains from her body. She worked too hard. Well, that would soon be over. When he was free of the globe, she would work no more. He would take care of her. She wouldn’t have a care in the world. Her life and her happiness would be in his hands. He would take care of her every need.
“Don’t start with me, Nessa,” the redhead hissed in irritation. “We always end up where we’re headed.” Her voice softened as she turned to face the politely smiling MacKays. With a nod toward the map, she added with a tight-lipped smile, “We just sometimes take the scenic route. Besides. I didn’t realize this was a race.”
“Hmm…that one there is going to be the undoing of some poor man,” Latharn noted with a grin. He had been watching Trish’s friendship with Nessa for years. Latharn missed the camaraderie he’d once had with his clan whenever he watched the two women together. It reminded him of just how isolated he was. He swallowed hard as he pushed the memories of his clan aside. Enough of this senseless bickering. It was time to put on a little show.

Today Rainyn Clery, Lord of the Night is with us

2010-10-15T01:19:00.001-04:00

1. Good evening. Can you tell our readers a little about yourself? Good evening bella! I am Rainyn Clery, a classical musician and lord of the night who hails from the Victorian age. I also work at a male strip club/whorehouse for women and I truly dig rock’n’roll!
2. What do you find most challenging about being a vampire? I live in Florida, the Sunshine State. However, if I dare to step forth into the beams of the sun I’m pretty much melba toast. You do the math.
3. Do you find that people have a hard time accepting you just because you’re a vampire? For years I lead an exciting although somewhat lonesome life; it’s difficult not being able to reveal yourself to people; um, well, as a stripper I pretty much reveal myself to everyone, but you know what I mean! I always sought solace through my great friendships with my brothers of the night, Ramon and Xavier. And if the occasional lady discovered that my Facebook status should read Lord of the Night, I assured her that I don’t drink blood. I am a vampire of the incubus, meaning that I sustain myself through the sexual energies and excitement of women. For some reason the ladies seem totally cool with that concept.
I am very fortunate, though, to have found a woman—my beautiful Blythe—who truly understands and accepts me for who I am.
4. How old are you? I was turned when I was 21, back in Queen Victoria’s time; again I repeat, you do the math!:)
5. What is it like working with your author – is she susceptible to your charms? You mean the lovely Megan? She is our most loyal customer at Club Nuit. Her tips have personally financed a number of club remodeling projects, as well as accommodated the purchase of abundant supplies of G-strings and baby oil!
6. How can readers reach you and buy your book? Ladies, please write Megan or the gentlemen of Nuit anytime at goldenmuse@lycos.com. To buy a copy of Angel on Fire, which tells my story, please visit http://www.king-cart.com/Phaze/product=Angel+On+Fire/exact_match=exact
7. Anything you’d like to add? I want to send warm wishes and naughty notions to all of the ladies of the world; you are welcome anytime at Club Nuit! (winks)

Angel on Fire blurb:

Rainyn Clery is a gorgeous, kind-natured dancer at Club Nuit; a strip club/bordello where hot incubus vampires fulfill the deepest, darkest fantasies of everyday women. Despite his great passion for his work, Rainyn finds himself falling in love with Blythe, record company executive and Nuit regular.
Blythe Browning is engaged to marry Richard Billings, a city commissioner in her hometown of Clearview, Florida. Yet Richard's cruel, smug attitude drives

Welcome to Andre the Half-Demon EMT

2010-10-14T21:25:00.000-04:00

1. Hi, please tell us a little bit about yourself.
My name is Andre, and I’m a half-demon EMT. What a combination, right? But being half-demon means I’m half evil, and no matter how hard I try to make up for it, I’ll always have an evil side. If being half-human has taught me anything, it’s that demons shouldn’t be allowed to walk the earth. They should be burning in Hell where they belong. So I’ve made it my personal quest to seek out every demon I can and banish them all. I have to make up for who I am somehow.

2. Where are you from?
Hell. Well, sort of. I was born in Italy in 1546. That’s where my mother lived. Until she died giving birth to me. Human women aren’t made to carry demon babies. So my father raised me, if you could call it that.

3. Do you find that people expect you to be bad all the time, being a demon?
Not at all. But that’s only because no humans know what I am. Except for Miranda. She only sees the good in me, and I hope that’s all she’ll ever see.

4. Who, I mean what’s your favorite snack?
Twizzlers. I love the taste of sugary plastic!

5. How did you meet your author?
She was filling in for a coworker who was taking a break. She started daydreaming, and I popped into her head. My story started flowing out, and she wrote it on the back of a calendar with a half-sharpened pencil. I was so insistent; she didn’t have a choice but to tell my story.

6. Do you find her easy to work with?
Of course. She may have created me, but she lets me call all the shots in the story.

7. How can readers contact you or buy your book?
You can reach me by emailing my author at carrie.pulkinen@hotmail.com
My book will be available at breathlesspress.com on October 8th.

8. Anything you’d like to add?
Just that I try my hardest to be a good person. I save as many humans as I can with the magic I possess, and I try not to let anything get in the way of my quest. Except for Miranda. I can’t get that woman out of my mind.

Say hi to twin Vampires...how's that for a Wednesday

2010-10-13T15:23:00.002-04:00

1. Hi Gentlemen, can you introduce yourselves to our readers?
Remann: I’m Remann and this is my brother Aiden, we’re happy to be at your service. We are vampire heroes in Olivia Starke’s Order of Terminus series at Cobblestone Press. Blood Desires is Aiden’s story, and Blood Mercy is mine.
Aiden: This interview will be brief, right?
Remann: Ignore my twin, he has no social skills.
2. So, how did you get to be vampires, anyway?
Remann: It happened back in the dark ages, after we were rescued from death by a lovely vampiress.
Aiden: I wouldn’t say rescued so much as converted against our will.
Remann: Such a pessimist, brother. We were spared a horrendous death.
Aiden: To be granted with this curse of a life?
3. What’s the greatest challenge to being a vampire?
Aiden: The never ending desire for blood. It rules your thoughts day and night. And you don’t sleep, so not even that can be a retreat.
Remann: The cravings can be tempered. We drink donor blood or we take Feeders that volunteer it to us fresh from the source.
Aiden: A disgusting habit, I assure you.
Remann: You have never been one to condone logical actions, brother. Is it not logical that we should enjoy a natural meal from a willing body?
Aiden: *growls* We are not natural, we’re an abomination.
4. Wow, it’s interesting that you two have such opposing views to vampirism. So, who, I mean what’s your favorite snack?
Remann: The obvious answer would be blood, since little else compares. But I can think of something sinfully sweet that can only a woman can provide.
Aiden: Remann only thinks with his teeth or his c**k.
Remann: As if you were void of your baser instincts.
Aiden: I have priorities.
Remann: Ah, yes, ridding the world of nasty Dissenters. Those are feral vampires who prey on humans.
5. Both of you have such strong personalities. Which of you is the leader?
Remann: *laughs* Aiden would like to believe he is the leader, but I fear he doesn’t have the charisma.
Aiden: Are we finished with this yet?
6. How did you meet your author?
Remann: I met Olivia while on a walk, I believe. It was an early spring morning and she was walking these annoying little dogs.
Aiden: I was on a hunt, does it really matter.
7. What’s she like?
Aiden: She’s great, I have a hunt to get to so if you’ll excuse me…
Remann: *grabs Aiden’s arm* Don’t be an ass, sit down.
Aiden: Careful who you lay hands on.
Remann: You seem to believe your teeth baring threats intimidate me.
Aiden: I don’t need to intimidate you in order to take you out.
Remann: And when have you ever gotten the upper hand with me?
8. Um, so gentlemen, sorry to interrupt but our time runs short. How can our readers find you and buy your books?
Remann: Cobblestone Press (http://www.cobblestone-press.com/catalog/author/oliviastarke.htm)
9. Anything you’d like to add?
Remann: I apologize for my brother and I do hope you’ll ignore his impatience. I believe our mother must have dropped him on his head as an infant.
Aiden: We’ll finish this later Remann.

Welcome Aramir, Nicole Dennis's Fire Demon from Demon Heart

2010-10-13T11:49:00.001-04:00

1. Hi, Aramir, please tell us a little bit about yourself.
:: a sensual smile and low bow:: Greetings and thank you for allowing me to join you, delightful ladies, on this wonderful review site. My name is Aramir, a fire demon. Once I was a respected and honored prince of my homeland, now I’m an enslaved and cursed demon to a beautiful heart flame jewel by a horrendous black sorceress.
2. Where are you from?
Originally, I come from a land full of demons of different types and styles. Over the years I’ve been trapped in my jewel, I believe it’s been lost to time or forgotten. Lately, my home is the jewel which is a cold ruby in the shape of a heart with a flame coming out of the top.
3. You keep mentioning you’re enslaved to this jewel? What is this curse? How long has this curse been upon you?
A most cruel enchantment is upon me. After I shunned the advances of this cold enchantress, known as Rosezetta, when I was still a prince, she bound me to the heart jewel. If you ever met the woman, you would know why I shun her in the first place. ::a shudder of muscular shoulders::
A new mistress of the jewel must stand nude under the full moon, my jewel in her hands, chant the lines, and through mystics and moonlight I appear to her to do her bidding until she is done with me.
This horrible curse has been upon me for nigh upon 4,000 years now.
4. Oh my, that is a long time. What must you do during your enchantment or time out of the jewel?
Aye, it has been a long time. Some of it good, some horrible. My latest appearance has been the finest for it introduced me to my beloved, Constance Morelli.
::another sensual smile:: The sorceress turned me into a sex slave. I make all your most sensual, sexual dreams come true. Anything you dream about, I will do, must do, to fulfill the enchantment.
Also, I’m bound to protect my mistress from all evil and harm. I can command my sword and fire powers to protect her.
5. Do you find that people expect you to be bad all the time, being a demon?
When I was at my height of a demon prince, I enjoyed being bad, oh so bad, but after 4,000 years of being bound and a slave, I find my attitudes changing.
6. Who, I mean what’s your favorite snack?
My Constance introduced me to her cannoli. She is a fabulous baker. Have you had one? They are sinful. Though, I do enjoy snacking on my beloved whenever I get the chance. Especially her cannoli cream on my lady. Yum!
7. How did you meet your author?
Ahh, my sweet Nicole. Thanks to a rather snarky, flighty Muse who popped into my jewel and told me she could help me tell my story and give me a way out. All I had to do was speak to this author of hers, Nicole, but of course give the Muse all the credit for coming up with my story.
8. Do you find her easy to work with?
Oh she is a delight to work with once we set the cats after the Muse. She scribbled my story down in a little over a week, kept texting her cousin, Jena, who became the inspiration for my Constance. I’m not sure of all that, but it worked out in the end, for I love my lady.
9. How can readers contact you or buy your book?
My book, Demon Heart, comes out October 22 from Breathless Press at www.breathlesspress.com
You can follow my author, Nicole Dennis, at:
nicoledennis.author@gmail.com
http://nicoledennis.weebly.com - Web
http://www.nicoledennis.co.cc/ - Blog
Facebook Author Group: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=app_2915120374#!/group.php?gid=158600595178
10. Anything you’d like to add?
Unfortunately no, it’s time for me to go. My beloved Connie is calling me.
Though, I wish to thank you delightful ladies for asking me to join you for this interview. I hope I can entertain all of your wishes and delight your dreams. Please come and visit us in Maple, Maine where all paranormals and visitors are welcome. Be sure to visit Morelli’s Bakery for one of Connie’s cannoli. ::wink:: You will not be disappointed.

Blurb:
Running errands before Halloween, Constance Morelli passes a window display and is drawn to a dazzling ruby necklace. Not quite believing the story behind the piece, but intrigued by the possibilities, Constance takes the jewel home, only to find herself in possession of a naked demon-hunk, bound as a sex slave.
After four thousand years of dealing with various mistresses in one sexual way or another, Aramir knows what to expect when he appears in the moonlight. Only this mistress is different. He's fed, clothed, and treated like a real man. Not a slave. What is a bound demon to do with such a lady?

Gabriel fitz Michael, Duke of Dorre' is here today from Beauty's Beast

2010-10-12T11:01:00.004-04:00

1. Hi, please tell us a little bit about yourself. Well met. I am Gabriel fitz Michael, Duke of Dorré. I was a medieval knight until I was trapped in my wolf form and banished from my home. But then the brave and beautiful Lady Kathryn found me and came to my aid, and—well, it is a long story.

2. Have you encountered prejudice from other shifters? If I have ever met another werewolf he has not revealed himself to me. The people of my land have a deep prejudice against the werewolf. They believe him to be a savage beast who does much harm. I believed the same myself before I became a werewolf. And when I revealed to my wife, Alisoun, that I was a werewolf, she cursed me, trapping me in my wolf form. I was banished from my home, forced to live in the forest like an animal.

Also, the farmers whose chickens I steal seem to have a most egregious prejudice against werewolves. I wonder why that is so…

3. What’s the greatest challenge to being a werewolf? Figuring out where to hide my clothing once I have Changed.

4. Do you have any beauty tips to share? Apply honey to your wounds, it helps with the scarring.

5. Who, I mean what’s your favorite snack? I am awfully fond of fresh chicken.

6. How does the moon affect you? I turn into a large black wolf, although I still retain my human mind when I become a wolf. It is hard at times, though, to restrain certain wolfish urges. Usually I hide in the forest during my Change, so that I will not harm anyone, and every farmer's chickens will be safe from me.

Sometimes this plan works better than others.

7. How did you meet your author? One evening, she was reading the medieval poem "Bisclavret" for homework while a crusade movie was on in the background and suddenly she had an idea to write a story about a cursed werewolf knight. Me. The rest of my world and my companions evolved from that moment.

8. What’s she like? She is constantly reading and spinning stories in her head. She's a bit like my lady-love, Kathryn, in that way. The pair of them: always full of ideas and stories. She's also awfully fond of cats, and even named hers after a character from a play written by someone called Shakespeare. A bit after my time, I'm afraid.

At the moment my author, E.D., is attending something called a "university" in the New World. At a place called Berkeley, I believe. A savage land I'm sure, untamed and wild. I don't know how a delicate maiden can survive in such a place.

9. Does she run around with other characters? Yes. Constantly. She has even got a story written for young adults coming out soon all about pagan gods and their adventures in your modern world.

10. Anything you’d like to add? Even though it deals with the heathenish pagan gods, you probably should check out my author's upcoming release Heir to the Underworld from Sapphire Blue Publishing. The heroine, Frederica, though a trifle unconventional is a charming, vivacious young woman and her adventures among the pagan gods is well worth a read. You can learn more about this and my author's other stories on something called a website, located here: http://heirtotheunderworld.com/

It was a pleasure to speak with you, and my author conveys her salutations as well, and I thank you on her behalf for hosting me here at your...blog? Is that the correct word? Well, many thanks all the same. Good day.
Here’s the link to the book page:
https://www.nobleromance.com/ItemDisplay.aspx?i=173

Here’s the Blurb:
Lady Kathryn’s father sends her to court to find a husband, but being penniless and disinterested doesn't bode well for her success. Bored by the petty intrigues of court, her frustration and loneliness are eased when the king charges her with the care of his newest acquisition: a wolf he and his hunters have recently captured. What the king doesn't realize is his remarkable pet was once Gabriel, his favorite knight, cursed into wolf form by an unfaithful wife.

The beast's too-knowing eyes and the way he understands and responds to her every utterance convince Kathryn he is more than what he seems. Resolving to restore him, she doesn't count on the greatest obstacle being Gabriel himself. The longer he stays in wolf form as a captive of the court, the harder it becomes for him to remember his humanity and to fight his wolfish urges to maim and kill.

As Gabriel and Kathryn grow to care for one another despite his horrific curse, rumors of an uncanny wolf reach the ears of Gabriel’s former wife and her unscrupulous new husband, Reynard. Together, they plan to dispose of the king's pet, knowing if Gabriel ever regains his human form he could strip them of everything they have schemed so hard to gain.

Only Kathryn's affection and determination stand between Gabriel the wolf and Gabriel the man. But when Reynard returns to court, will Kathryn’s love be enough to keep Gabriel from exacting a brutish revenge that will condemn the wolf to death?

Here’s a short excerpt too if you have room for it on the blog:
Chapter One

Lady Kathryn de Réméré understood where her duty lay. She did—truly. The hitch, though, the tricky part, the really twisty trouble was . . . . Well, she was actually having a difficult time convincing herself that her duty was to do her duty.

The royal court had not taken part in a hunt since the marriage of the Princess Aliénor to their king a month previous. Kathryn had only been one of the queen's ladies since Aliénor's marriage, but in one short month Kathryn had grown very fond of her queen. She would do almost anything for her, but . . . did it have to be hunting?

Riding had never been one of Kathryn's favorite pastimes either, and when her father had gambled away the funds necessary to keep their horses, the loss of her late mother's bay mare had caused Kathryn only a small touch of regret.

Kathryn certainly liked horses, and riding could be pleasant, but this—this neck-or-nothing tear through the woods, the bouncing and jostling and branches hitting her in the face, and all the while the great brute below her ignoring all her most urgent instructions.

The horse recognized who was master, and it certainly was not the featherweight astride his back pulling ineffectually, and rather irritatingly, at his reins. He had his head now and would not have slowed for a rider twice as skillful as Kathryn.

Her horse broke from the group of hunters and went careening wildly off into the brush. A bare moment later, Kathryn heaved forward off her horse's neck, the ground rising up to meet her. She lay stunned in the damp leaves, the musty smell of the dirt thick in her nostrils, while the careless beast gleefully galloped his way back to his home stable for some oats and a good brushing down.

The chase was on, though, and Kathryn would not be missed by her companions for some time yet.

Only slightly dazed, when her wits recovered sufficiently and the world stopped spinning, she stood with the aid of an obliging tree trunk to take in her surroundings. The lush forest possessed a heavy covering of brush on the ground, clustering around the roots of the tall trees. Kathryn put a hand to her chest, trying to calm her still-hammering heart. "Help. Anyone? Hello?" The forest swallowed her cries, and the only sounds around her now were the gentle rustlings of the trees. She swallowed sudden fear, stifling it, and started walking, hoping someone had noticed her difficulties and come looking.

She would be having a long day if they had not.

Kathryn gulped in a deep breath, then tilted her head to listen as a strange noise caught her attention. She froze and held her breath.

Barking, horses and—the high-pitched howl of a wolf?

I thought we hunted the hart this day. This thought was swiftly chased away by another and rather more alarming one: They're coming this way.
***

Wolf of My Heart

2010-10-12T00:01:00.002-04:00

Interviewer: Today, I have three Weres with me: Jonah Killebrew, Brody Anderson, and Rhyan Knox, all from Linda Palmer's werewolf series, Wolf of My Heart, available from Wild Horse Press. Hi, guys. Please tell us a little bit about yourself.

Jonah: Should I go first? Okay. I'm currently attending college in Birmingham. I live with my mom and my step-dad, Harlan Hawkes, a cheesy magician she barely knows. We fight a lot...I mean me and Harlan do. Mom's pretty much a walking, talking Barbie doll at the moment. He wants me to move into a dorm, but I won't. Not while Mom's under his thumb. I think he put some kind of spell on her and I can't leave her alone with him. My real dad ran out on us when I was just a kid, so he's no help.

Brody: Guess I'm next. I live in Wolf-Run, Tennessee in an apartment house. I'm working on getting my GED since something happened when I was in high school, and I never graduated. My mom's a psychic with a hotline and a web page--the real deal. I haven't seen her in almost two years, but I know she knows I'm okay. Don't want to talk about my dad.

Rhyan: I'm originally from Louisiana, but I'm currently in Colorado, trying to get some help from a Quantauk shaman. I didn't graduate from high school, either. Same reason as Brody. I plan to get my GED when I...well...get my life together again. I'm hoping that will be soon so I can see my folks and my little sister. It's been over two years, and I really miss them.

Interviewer: I'm so sorry. That has to be hard. How did you guys become Weres, anyway? Uh-oh. I'm seeing a lot of exchanged looks. What happened?

Rhyan: A creep whose name we can't reveal is the reason we're all howling at the moon. He's a Palatine, which is a kind of Were assassin. That means he can legally kill us as far as the supernatural world is concerned. But the sups don't know the whole story.

Brody: I should tell you that none of us want to be Weres. We were recruited and bitten against our wills, and now we're all trying to deal with it.

Interviewer: Wow. Do you encounter prejudice from other shifters? Especially the ones who want to shift?

Jonah: I haven't. But then the Weres I hang with are all mostly in the same mess as me.

Brody: Ditto, though I actually have a few friends who like shifting.

Rhyan: My situation is a little different. I'm having to deal with Weres who had to walk what the Quantauk tribe calls the Wolf-Way to get to be wolves. They don't like me much at all. I think it's a pack thing. Or maybe it's because I was bitten. Anyway, I'm definitely an outsider even though I'm one-quarter Quantauk.

Interviewer: What’s the greatest challenge to being a werewolf?

Jonah: If I could just be a wolf now and then, I think I could handle it. But the three of us are in a really weird situation. We're sort of in a gang, and our leader makes us do things--

Brody: Illegal things.

Jonah: Yeah, and he also threatens to harm our girlfriends and our families if we don't cooperate.

Rhyan: So this hasn't been a fun experience for any of us.

Interviewer: How does the moon affect you?

Rhyan: When there's a full moon, we can shift into wolves and then shift right back into humans at will. If we shift any other time, there's a delay in the shift from wolf back to human. We think it has something to do with being turned with a bite.

Interviewer: Do you guys have girlfriends? Oh. I see some grins. All of you?

Jonah: I sure do. Her name is Andee Rivera, and she's a witch. She took me in when I was bitten and left for dead. I'm hoping she can help me get rid of this curse, so I can get the pack leader off my back and save my mom from Harlan.

Brody: My girlfriend is Cassiday Norris. I met her at my GED prep class. Though I knew I should stay clear so she wouldn't get involved in my problems, I just couldn't. So some bad guys kidnapped her. It was really sticky for a while there.

Rhyan: I'm in love with Tehya Crane. It was one of those love at first sight things.

Jonah: Awww.

Rhyan: Would you shut the ef up? It happens. "Chief," that's her grandpa, is the shaman I'm hoping will help me get my life back to normal. Teyha has some magical powers that she's keeping from him because she doesn't want to be tied to the res forever. What's ironic about us, is that I don't want to be a Were, but she'd love to be one. Unfortunately, tradition states that only Quantauk guys can walk the Wolf-Way.

Interviewer: How did you meet your author?

Brody: I met Linda Palmer in Arkansas, where she lives. I was there on a job for Titus. She seemed have an open mind about stuff like Weres, which drew me in. I wound up telling her my story. She wanted the world to read the truth.

Rhyan: Brody put her in touch with the rest of us.

Jonah: That's right.

Interviewer: What’s she like?

Jonah: She's unexpectedly funny and isn't afraid to tell it like it is. Plus she's fascinated with anything that goes bump in the night. You should check out her website. I think it's www.lvpalmer.com. Is that right?

Brody: I think so. Yeah.

Interviewer: Does she run around with other characters?

Rhyan: Sure. Psychics, witches, ghosts, Weres and even a Were-jaguar.

Interviewer: Anything you guys would like to add?

Jonah: Our stories are very different because none of us wanted to be Weres. I think you'll find them interesting. Mine is My-Wolf.

Brody: I agree. My story is called Wolf-Way. We've been through some heavy stuff, and Linda didn't pull any punches when she wrote about us.

Rhyan: My book is Wolf-Way. You should give them all a read. You can get them from www.the-wild-horse-press.com, www.allromanceebooks.com, and www.Amazon.com plus some other places.

Brody: How do you remember that kind of stuff, dude?

Rhyan: I pay attention.

Interviewer: Thanks, guys. It's been a lot of fun talking to you.

Brody, Rhyan, Jonah: Thanks for listening.

Today we're chatting with Xavier from Sandra Sookoo's Vegetarian at Midnight

2010-10-11T11:18:00.000-04:00

1. Hi Xavier, please tell us a little bit about yourself.

First off, let me say how wonderful it is to be here, talking with the charming ladies of this review site. Now, you want to know about me. Ah, one of my very favorite subjects to talk about. I have been called sexy, gorgeous, an Adonis among men, and I must say it’s probably because of my blond curls. Women seem to favor them as much as I like to wear a fedora and appear well bred.

I’m a fairly simple individual. I like fine things, rare things, objects that others will lust after but can’t have because I own them. Objects d’art, old wines, rare books and the occasional woman—of course, that came to an end once I met my better half, Sophia. She plays havoc with my libido and as much as she denies we’re soul mates, I know she’ll come around to my way of thinking—eventually. I always enjoy a challenge.

2. I understand you have a little problem with a curse?

Unfortunately, you are correct. It would seem somewhere in my family tree, one of my male relatives pissed off the wrong woman and she put a curse of the males of my family. I have made my peace with being a wolf, but now, it isn’t as fulfilling as it once was and I’d like to change that. How does one go about lifting a gypsy curse? I shudder to even contemplate the steps involved yet will go through it because my dear Sophia will be with me every step of the way.

3. What’s the greatest challenge to being a werewolf?

Besides shredding my expensive, name-brand suits every time I shift? LOL I would have to say keeping a lid on my temper is the greatest challenge. I’m terribly territorial and once I met Sophia, convincing her—and everyone else—that she belongs exclusively to me is becoming a chore.

4. If you could be any other animal, which one would you pick?

Ah, my dear, why in God’s name would I want to become yet another animal when I’m attempting desperately to lose the one I’m saddled with?

5. Who, I mean what’s your favorite snack?

Lately, I have an affinity of snacking on folks who indulge in petty crime, like vandals, burglars and the like. I have been known to eat a jogger or two in my time, but when not noshing on a human now and again, I’m very fond of beef. I’ve never met a cow I didn’t like, much to Sophia’s chagrin. She has designs on turning me into a vegetarian, but as fond as I am of her, that will never happen.

6. How does the moon affect you?

How does it affect you, good woman? Contrary to popular literature, the moon has zero affect on my urge to shift into the beast within. I’d much rather enjoy the lunar events with the woman of my dreams, clothing optional.

7. How did you meet your author?

Ah, now that is a bit of a story in itself. There I was, living my life my own way in the forests of northern Indiana, when I had cause to meet a woman named Hannah. My intention was to eat her as a snack, but she would have none of that and got straight to the heart of my issues. Loneliness and people-eating. It was she that put me on a venison only diet, much to Sophia’s annoyance, I might add. But back to the question. The dear author, Sandra Sookoo, decided my looks would be wasted if I was allowed to fade into the background and it was she who determined I needed to make my story known to all and sundry in my own book VEGETARIAN AT MIDNIGHT. I did tell you all women fall victim to my charm and good looks. The author is no exception.

8. What’s she like?

Much like any other writer, I would suspect. Reclusive, mysterious and nearly permanently attached to her keyboard. She agonizes over how to bring out a particularly character’s story, how best to showcase that person, who to pair them with. I’ve heard she’s very fond of chocolate and Chinese food. I have also heard she’s good at cooking. Perhaps I should drop in on her for a recipe or two.

9. How can our readers find you and buy your book?

Ah, a woman after my own heart when it comes to marketing and advertising! The good folks at Eirelander Publishing are graciously selling VEGETARIAN AT MIDNIGHT in book digital and print formats http://www.eirelander-publishing.com. I have been made aware of their new website and I must say, it makes me yearn to revisit Ireland, but I simply cannot leave my Sophia. My book is also available on Amazon and All Romance e-books, and I believe my author will also have print books on hand to autograph in the coming weeks.

10. Anything you’d like to add?

I’m sad to say I must leave you now. Sophia is calling to continue my quest for the curse-breaking potion and I can’t deny her anything. However, let me add this. My greatest rival and biggest thorn in the side Braeden Hollister (you will meet him in my book) is trying to one-up me by having his own story told in March of 2011. I implore you, good readers, that when you read his book, you come back to mine, because, after all, I am the better hero as you will very well see.

Thank you so much for hosting me and I wish everyone a safe, happy and thoroughly delicious Halloween.

Please say hi to Jacque Toussant from Soul Catcher

2010-10-10T11:53:00.003-04:00

1. Hi, please tell us a little bit about yourself.
First and foremost, thank you ladies for having me at Got Romance Reviews. You romance chicks are like us Southerners, real friendly. I’m Jacque Toussant. I’m what you call a Mutura demon or shifter demon. I command the legions of Hades, at least until Angel came along. Making sure that girl stays out of trouble is a full time job, but that’s what I get falling for a girl who made a deal with my uncle Lucifer. I knew she was trouble from the first moment I laid eyes on her, but couldn’t resist. Lol.

2. Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Hades or Hell, whichever is more comfortable to you. My father is one of the Seven Princes of Hell and my mother is the Egyptian goddess Isis. My uncle Lucifer is… Well, you know who he is. Try growing up in that family, talk about your inadequacy complex. Geesh.

Now, me and Ang hang out in New Orleans with our fam and friends.

3. Do you find that people expect you to be bad all the time, being a demon?
Yeah. That can be a problem at times. People always think we’re the “Big Bad.” I could see how they can make that mistake when you see all this. *flexes muscles* Hahaha! But seriously, we like anyone else. They’re good demons and bad demons. The only thing that makes us different is where we’re from and where some of us live. Hell, if I didn’t tell you I was a demon and you didn’t see my eyes flash red, you’d think I was any other hot guy you met on the street. *flexes muscles again* You like that… I see you smiling over there.

Shit… I think Ang is getting a little touchy about the showboating, so I’ll cut it out. *wink*

4. We understand you’re a soul catcher, what is that exactly?
Actually, I’m not the Soul Catcher. That’ll be my lady, Angel. She’s kickass, but I taught her everything she knows. I would consider myself more of her bodyguard, trainer, protector, maybe. All I know is that I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe and with me. And let me tell you, that’s hard work.

5. How did you meet your author?
You know, Vivi’s cool. Even though she was gonna cut me after Angel’s training, she’s still good people. Originally, she thought Angel would go through training with me and then go topside (Earth) and hitch up with some ridiculous vamp. But I wooed Vivi and Angel with my charms and neither could let me go. And as they say, that’s all she wrote. Ang and I started on our roller coaster ride to fight my uncle Luc.

6. Do you find her easy to work with?
*Breathes deeply* We have a love hate relationship sometimes. It was a difficult road sometimes. Like I mentioned earlier, I wasn’t suppose to stick around as long as I did. So, she had some spots where I caused some problems because my character was unfolding as she wrote the story. That’s what she get for being one of those Pantsers. Hahaha!

7. How can readers contact you or buy your book?

Well, the book will be release by Decadent Publishing. We don’t have a release date yet but follow Vivi on:
FB - http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000789746445#!/profile.php?id=100001071377027
FB Fan Page - http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000789746445#!/pages/Dueling-with-the-Devil-Series/140766029299050
Twitter - http://twitter.com/vividumas
Blog – www.vividumas.wordpress.com
Website – www.vividumas.com/wordpress/

8. Anything you’d like to add?
I want to thank y’all for inviting me to come speak to y’all. I hope I can entertain you ladies and prove to be the man, demon actually, of your dreams. If you’re looking for tall, dark and handsome, you came to the right place. I also know there are some really steamy scenes between me and my Angel. You look like you might enjoy that. *wink* Hahaha!

Blurb

One of the top supermodels in the world, Angel, lives the life of the rich and fabulous, until a heinous car accident mars her face. After thirteen surgeries and losing everything she deemed important, she seeks out the dark forces to salvage her life. Angel decides to conjure the Devil for help, making a deal to recover her beauty. In exchange for his help, Lucifer forces her to hunt supernatural renegades, which have eluded the pits of Hell. In her quest to find beauty and get out of her contract with Lucifer, Angel stumbles upon love in the arms of a demon.
Jacque Toussant is an Underworld demon, Commander of the Legions. He took the commission to escape the madness of a failed relationship and prove himself worthy of his demon heritage. Jacque is content with his existence as a field soldier until Lucifer gives him a special assignment to oversee a new trainee, a supermodel nonetheless. Humans hold low appeal for Jacque, especially the females— their unstable emotions are too overwhelming for his empath gift. That is until he meets Angel. Jacque risks everything to find a way to break Angel’s deal with Lucifer, including his life.

Please welcome Chelsea, Teenage Ghost from Whispers in Autumn

2010-10-09T01:05:00.000-04:00

1.) Hi, please tell us a little bit about yourself.

Hey. My name is Chelsea Martin and I'm the same age now that I was eight years ago, the same age I will always be, and that is fifteen years old. In life, I was an athlete. I won lots of trophies for the Hope Haven High School swim team. Coach Taylor said I was the best there ever was, and I guess that's probably true. That's why it's so unbelievable that I died the way I did. By drowning. Another thing I should tell you about me is that I have a hot temper. My dad always called me headstrong, and I think that's probably true, too. I always did exactly what I wanted to do, and that's the reason I am what I am today. A teenaged ghost.

2.) Is it hard being a teenaged ghost?

It's hard when I start thinking about all the things I won't ever get to do. Like I'll never get to drive a car or get married. And I'll never get to swim again. But at the same time, I'll never get old, like Mrs. Wilbert. She’s another ghost who lives at Shadow Lake. She's, like, eighty years old. She hobbles around in these beater high heels and this old purple hat with all this creepy netting across the front. At least I was wearing something hot when I died, which was my favorite black swim suit.

3.) Do you interact with people you knew before you died?

Well, for that I need a medium, ‘cause most people can't see or hear me, and that’s totally frustrating sometimes. That's why I was so stoked when Ms. Denning showed up at Shadow Lake. 'Course I had no idea the trouble she was bringing along with her. I had to practically save her life, but it's all good, because she was my only chance to get through to my dad, to explain what happened that night out on the lake. See, all these years he's been blaming himself for my death. Seeing my dad suffer and not being able to help him is the hardest part of being a ghost.

4.) Do you know any other ghosts?

Oh, you have no idea. There are tons of spirits here at Shadow Lake. Most of them are old people, like Mrs. Wilbert, and I don't have anything much in common with them except that we're all dead. But there's this ghost dog named Dutch. He's a German Shepherd and the gentlest, sweetest dog you ever met. He spends most of his time pacing back and forth on the docks, waiting for his master to come home. He's been waiting for, like, forty years, I think. I like to sit on the dock and talk to him. He's a better listener than all the humans I know put together.

5.) What's it like working with your author?

Jean was pretty cool to work with once she understood the rules. At first she was trying to make me say things I'd never say, so then I totally clammed up and she's all, "What's the problem, Chelsea?" But once she got it that I was the one in control, we got along just fine. Fact, toward the end of the story I started to feel like she knew me even better than I knew myself.

6.) Where can readers buy your book?

WHISPERS IN AUTUMN is available as a paperback or an ebook at www.blacklyonpublishing.com, or at Amazon.com as a paperback or a Kindle Book. You can also get it at your favorite book store. If they don't have it, ask them to order it for you!

7.) Anything you'd like to add?

I want to let people know that Jean's got a lot of other really great books, too. There’s Shadow Lake, which is part one of our series, and there are also books about ghosts and time travel and lots of other cool stuff. You can read excerpts and reviews on her website at:
http://mjeanpike.webs.com

Excerpt from WHISPERS IN AUTUMN

In the bathroom, Dove slipped out of her dress and pulled on a nightgown. She washed her face, brushed her hair, and headed back to the living room, yawning. A night of driving and a day of festivity had finally caught up with her. Sleep would come easily this night.
Crossing the room to pull the curtains closed, she froze when she saw a figure standing on the dock; a young girl in a black bathing suit. Her skin was milky white, her hair long and untamed. Dove pulled in a breath. Don't get involved...
She closed her eyes, exhaled softly. When she opened them again, the girl was still there, regarding her pensively with her dark, shadowy eyes.
Don’t...
Ignoring her inner voice, Dove slid open the door and stepped outside. She stood without speaking, her gaze locked with that of the specter.
You can see me? The girl finally asked.
Yes.
None of the others can.
What do you want?
I want ... I want you to tell him I'm sorry. Please?
Who?
She choked on a sob. My dad.
Who are you?
Silence fell like a thick, dark veil. The ghost drew closer. Shivering in her nightgown, Dove braced herself against a blast of frigid air, against the sheer, raw strength of the emotions that swirled like a cyclone inside the girl. Images exploded in her brain, one after another: a small girl splashing in the water, running with a jar of lightning bugs, riding piggyback high on a man's shoulders. She watched as each impression gave way to the next, as the pretty little girl became a lovely young woman. She saw her competing in a high school swim meet as a crowd of onlookers cheered, dancing in a lavender gown, a string of pearls around her pretty neck, riding a ten speed bike, her hair dancing in the wind. And then came a final, horrible image. A blood curdling scream as she plunged head first into the icy lake, her hands groping blindly in terror and confusion as the water closed in around her.
Dove nearly buckled beneath the force of its fury as the specter fought to gain entry into her being. Summoning her inner strength, she steeled herself against the onslaught until she felt its energy begin to weaken. Its fervor lessened and then disappeared, leaving only a whispered breath of air in its wake.
I'm Chelsea ...

Please Welcome Siobhan Bishop from The Order of the Golden Rose

2010-10-08T00:26:00.002-04:00

Hi Siobhan, would you please tell us a little bit about yourself.

Well, if you were to ask the nuns at the Catholic School I attended growing up, they’d probably shake their heads with sad regret, and say “Ah yes, Siobhan. Where did we go wrong with that girl?” These days I can be found in the Arcanum Bookstore, the occult shop I own in Harvard Square, Cambridge… or traveling to investigate mystical documents that people have a tendency to drop in my lap, accompanied by visitations from pleasant folks like the reincarnated murderous operatic diva who had a fetishistic obsession with sex and death, or the Aztec Sangre Angeles—“Blood Angels”—who ran a high class vampire sex resort, including a bed that doubled as a metaphoric sacrificial altar and an on-site dentist for filing teeth.

Those sound like rather intense adventures.

It’s been interesting, that’s for sure.

How do you cope with situations like that? Do you have—um, what would be the politically correct phrase?—“special talents” of your own?

You mean like my own set of fangs or angel wings or fire from my fingertips? No…I’m just a nice pagan girl who likes to read books. I do have a knack for astral travel, and some people have the idea that the Eye of Horus tattoo on my back gives me mystical vision, but that’s just silly gossip. Of course there is the sex magic…

Do tell. The grapevine tells us you have a very interesting boyfriend.

He’s definitely a special man. Professor Richard Blake of Harvard, but those are just his “above-ground” credentials. Off the record he’s a Magus of Golden Rose mysticism, one of the most intense forms of occult sexual magic ever created. Not to mention his profound skill with tantric sexual techniques, which have Sanskrit names that make my jaw ache just to pronounce them. Needless to say lot more is aching after an evening practicing them. But Richard’s finest qualities are his mind and soul. He is incredibly intelligent, caring, devoted, and has a sophisticated grace unlike any man I’ve ever known.

Dealing with the occult ever day must be tiring…do you have any tips for other overworked professionals?

I have to admit, it does get tiring at times. Particularly since when I fall asleep I have the tendency to experience wild and vivid visions…you know, more danger, death, sex and mysticism…so there are days that I wake up more tired than when I went to sleep. But really, it’s all in keeping perspective. The occult life is glorious like no other imaginable, filled with passion and revelation, excitement and fulfillment. Remembering that keeps me smiling.

How did you meet your author?

R. Paul? Oh, he was always hanging around the bookstore with his nose in the most obscure tomes possible. He’s a sweet man, even though when he talks it sometimes sounds like an encyclopedia has come to life. One day when he was browsing a 1901 copy of the notorious book “The Rose Missal”, which is full of the most beautiful but dangerous spells and poetry, I told him the whole story behind The Order of the Golden Rose, and he asked (a little shyly, but with his usual earnestness) if he could write and publish the tale. At first I wasn’t sure—I mean, who would believe the stuff that happens in my life? But in the end I said yes. Honestly, I thought he would have a heart attack when I told him about the later adventure I had with the Aztec vampires, not to mention the one after that about the woman who thought she was Lilith. But he just smiled and said “Only you, Siobhan.”

How can readers find out more about you and maybe buy your books?

“The Order of the Golden Rose” which was published by Passion In Print Press (PIP) is all over the place on the web. It’s actually a pretty accurate picture of me on the cover. The tattoo looks great. Anyway, readers can check out www.passioninprint.com, or look up the title on www.amazon.com, or just Google the author’s name, R. Paul Sardanas, for all sorts of other buying options. I’m told the second book, “The Blood Jaguar”, will be out in December. You can also visit R. Paul’s website, www.rpaulsardanas.com.

Anything you’d like to add?

It was fun coming out of the shadows for a bit. Thank you for having me. If you are ever in Harvard Square, come by the Arcanum Bookstore and we’ll browse the most fascinating books in the world, then go out to the Algiers Coffee House for some Karkadale Hibiscus tea. We’ll talk about love, sex and magic. And don’t worry, I said goodbye to those nuns at Catholic School a long, long time ago. I won’t divulge a thing in confession.

I sure hope I get the chance to head over that way one day. It sounds like things are likely to get more interesting than just a cup of tea and a good book…although those are two of my favorite things. And that R Paul guy sounds hot! All those brains…oops my zombie side is showing
Thanks! Come back anytime and visit us.

The Order of the Golden Rose, A Siobhan Bishop Erotic Underworld Novel
by R. Paul Sardanas
available from Passion in Print Press

In a stunning tale set against the rich urban landscape of modern-day Boston and Cambridge, Massachusetts, occult book authority Siobhan Bishop uncovers a century-old secret society of sexual mystics. A rare edition detailing the dark, sensual practices within the Order of the Golden Rose has surfaced. On her quest for answers, Siobhan encounters charismatic Harvard professor Richard Blake, and passion ignites, plunging Siobhan into Richard's circle of hidden knowledge and transcendent eroticism. But does love stand a chance amidst the twisted obsessions of Richard's scorned lover, Olivia Dorian? Having tasted the sexually charged magic of the Order of the Golden Rose, Olivia will not be satisfied until she possesses all of the perilous knowledge of the erotic mystics—no matter who is destroyed in the process.

Coming soon…

The Blood Jaguar, by R. Paul Sardanas

Passionate blood and fevered sex—the second book of the Siobhan Bishop Erotic Underworld series ushers the occult book expert into the superheated world of a vampire subculture thriving on the Gulf Coast of Florida. A package from Miranda Thomas, a childhood friend of Siobhan’s, arrives at her bookstore and inside is a priceless 500 year-old manuscript detailing the history and rituals of Mexican Aztec magic. Miranda disappears, prompting Siobhan and her lover—Harvard Professor and fellow mystic Richard Blake—to travel to the Gulf of Mexico to pursue the mystery surrounding her lost friend. They discover a cult of sun-worshipping Aztec-inspired vampires operating a fabulously successful private resort where the rich and famous journey in secret to experience intense, erotic blood raptures. Siobhan, attempting to free Miranda from a dangerous liaison with the hypnotic cult leaders Don Cipriano and Dona Alejandra Rodriguez, instead finds herself drawn into temptations of ecstasy that flow like hot blood.

Today we are talking with a Paranormal Marshal from The Darkness of Sable

2010-10-07T10:21:00.000-04:00

1. Hi, please tell us a little bit about yourself.

I'm a famous sculptress and a Paranormal Marshal. For a long time, my creations were dark, twisted pieces of my imagination, but when they suddenly began coming to life, I soon discovered that I had a supernatural power.

2. What’s it like being a Paranormal Marshal?

Well, I wasn't always a Paranormal Marshal. It took quite a bit of coaxing to convince Thomas that I'd make a good marshal. The Judges agreed, so by training to be part of the Old World team they're protecting me, and I learned how to protect myself too.

3. What’s the greatest challenge to your job?

Right now there's a sect off the New Order called the Dark Rift who wants my magical ability. The Dark Rift is primarily vampires, but there are other Paranorms who follow them. After my ex-husband, Hal, was turned and he murdered his new wife, things have really heated up. The Old World isn't sure yet why my power is so coveted, but we're taking precautions. We believe Hal plays a big role in the Dark Rift, but we're not sure how.

4. Do you have any beauty tips to share?

Not really, but if you're ever in Naples, Florida, stop in at The Elegant Curl and ask for Lucretia. Tell her I sent you. She can perform miracles with your hair!

5. Who, I mean what’s your favorite snack?

I enjoy fresh pineapple and a good brandy, but I have a friend who's a giant and he enjoys the occasional evil faerie. He says it's the fey version of Mexican food.

6. How does the moon affect you?

The lunar cycles don't bother me, but I do have to be careful when I'm out after dark. There are some nasty werewolves in New York City, where I currently reside, and with all the vamps pissed off at me, I carry a wooden stake around more than I do a cell phone.

7. How did you meet your author?

{laughs} F.L. Bicknell has one wildly imaginative mind. I met her one day when I was sitting in the dark minding my own business. Suddenly I found myself in a limo with a dreamy man who sold my sculptures and made me lots of money. Besides, without F.L. writing my love scenes, I'd have to content myself with toys. Trust me, Thomas is soooo much better than a B.O.B.

8. What’s she like?

The woman drives me and the other characters until we blow up, fall in love, get staked, drop off a balcony, or whatever other devious things she can dream up. Poor Hal doesn't have a chance with F.L. She has this thing about psycho ex-husbands that leads them straight to their demise. I only hope she gives me the satisfaction of shooting an arrow into Hal's little, black heart or staking him out in the sun to wait for the sunrise.

9. Does she run around with other characters?

Sure she does, but none of us mind. Without F.L. we wouldn't be here, now would we? When all is said and down and she types 'The End' that woman has one helluva party and everyone is invited. The deep-fried pixie appetizers are really good. You should stop by the nest completed-novel bash and try some.

10. Anything you’d like to add?

Well, I must admit that if you enter my world, you're for a dose of the unexpected, some wild romance, adventure, thrills, chills and hot sex. I love Thomas with all my heart, but that damn Rick nearly screwed it all up. That Phooka will be kissing the Judges' feet for several months. I have to find a way to turn my daughter, Cheyenne, back into a human, but from what little F.L. has let me see of book two, it looks like I'm going to have a young woman to train—and my-my does this woman ever have an incredibly unique power!

I'm curious to find out what happens to the vampires, and if my suspicions are correct, Emerald, a vampyress, is going to help the Old World track down the head vamps of the Dark Rift.

Now where is that tall, dark and handsome mane of mine? {sigh} He's probably out battling werewolves again. They've been chewing on the city's power stations trying to zap fleas, so they are a nuisance.

Happy Halloween!

Samael - A demon from Mid-Wilshire and Playing with Fire

2010-10-05T01:05:00.001-04:00

1. Hi, please tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Samael, but you can call me Sam. My job is to take the souls of the damned down to Hell (but don’t worry…not everyone has a one-way ticket to Hell. I just go after the bad guys). I’m currently stationed in Los Angeles -- been there for about 200 years now. It’s not a bad gig. Much better than working downside, if you know what I mean.

2. Where are you from?

Well, Hell. I mean, millennia ago all of us demons were up in Heaven, but no one likes to talk about that. Although I guess if you want to get technical, right now I’m from the Mid-Wilshire District in L.A. That’s where I have a condo.

3. Do you find that people expect you to be bad all the time, being a demon?

Actually, no one should even know I’m a demon. Those of us working topside look just like regular people. We can get in a lot of trouble if our cover is blown. That said, I suppose people would think the worst of me if they did discover I was a demon. We’ve got kind of a bad rap, after all -- too many cheesy movies about possession, if you ask me. Like we don’t have a full enough plate carting the souls of L.A.’s bad guys down to Hell. Who has time for possession? I’m lucky if I can read a paper once in awhile.

4. Who, I mean what’s your favorite snack?

Demons don’t eat people. What do you think we are, werewolves? Anyway, I’m partial to a good rib-eye, but I wouldn’t say no to a pizza with everything on top. No anchovies, though. I hate those little suckers.

5. How did you meet your author?

I guess you could say we sort of bumped into each other. She dropped me a line and said she was interested in telling my and Felicia’s story, so I figured what the hell…in a manner of speaking.

6. Do you find her easy to work with?

Most of the time. Sometimes she asks questions that are a little too personal. That can get annoying. There were a couple of times where she went off to tell someone else’s story and left me and Felicia hanging, but otherwise the whole process was pretty smooth.

7. How can readers contact you or buy your book?

I don’t give out my phone number, but you can always contact me through my author, Christine Pope. She’s got a contact form on her website (christinepope.com) that’s easy to use. She’s pretty trustworthy about forwarding messages. The book is available through the Pink Petal Books website (www.pinkpetalbooks.com), and you can also buy it in the Kindle store, All Romance Ebooks, 1Romance Ebooks, and a couple of other places I’m probably forgetting about right now.

8. Anything you’d like to add?

Demons have a bad reputation, unfortunately. I think if people read my story they’ll see that the situation isn’t quite what they’ve been led to believe. We’re just doing our jobs -- same as you.

BLURB:

Samael calls the City of Angels home, but he’s far from angelic. His assignment: Bringing the souls of L.A.’s unquiet dead to the underworld. His duties don’t preclude more earthly entanglements, as long he keeps things purely physical.

When he meets Felicia McGovern, he soon realizes his attraction to her goes far beyond her admittedly enchanting flesh. Her unexpected discovery of his true nature separates the lovers, but when her life is in danger, Samael risks everything to keep her safe. He faces certain punishment…or possibly a redemption he never imagined could be his.

EXCERPT:

She wanted him to go home with her. The realization struck Felicia with an almost physical force as she watched him break up the last bit of bread with his long, strong fingers. What would it feel like to have those hands moving up and down her body, touching her…exploring her?
Heat pooled in her lower belly, and she wadded up the napkin in her lap, then smoothed it out once again, hoping those simple actions would help to distract her from the waves of need that had begun to pulse through her. This was ridiculous. She’d never allowed herself to be ruled by her hormones before, so what the hell was it about Sam that made her want to toss aside every scruple about casual sex she’d ever had?
Well, technically, this is our second date. She had to repress a nervous laugh. Amazing, the rationalizations the human mind could come up with when it really, really wanted something. And she knew she wanted Sam. What difference did it make whether she slept with him on her “second” date or her tenth? They were both adults, right?
Although she made an effort to take the bill, he neatly snatched it away from her and handed it and a platinum Visa to the waitress without even bothering to look at the total. Bounty hunting must pay pretty well.
She didn’t have much time to gather her thoughts; the waitress returned with amazing speed, considering her slowness in bringing the actual food. Felicia found herself standing outside the restaurant, valet ticket clutched in her hand, before she had time to collect her thoughts.
If Sam was experiencing the same diffidence, he didn’t show much sign of it. The warm night wind ruffled his unruly black hair as he handed his own ticket to the valet.
“Thank you for dinner,” she blurted, even as the second valet station attendant turned to her, an expectant look on his face.
“You’re welcome.” A brief smile. “I think he wants your ticket.”
“Oh.” She shoved the card into the valet’s hand and waited for him to depart. Then she took a breath. “Did you -- that is, I was thinking we could go back to my place. It’s not too far. For a nightcap, I mean.” Oh, God, if he didn’t already think I was an idiot for that remark about his looks, he’ll sure think it now…
The smile broadened. “Sure. What’ve you got?”
Good question. She wasn’t much of a drinker. She thought she had a bottle of cognac someone had given her a few years ago at one of Lauren’s Christmas parties. It had never even been opened. “You like cognac?”
It must have been the sodium-vapor street lights that made it look as if a reddish gleam came and went in his eyes. “Love it.”
Through some miracle the valet brought her car around first, closely followed by a big truck that must belong to Sam. She gave him her address and some quick directions. He nodded, then climbed into his truck and waited while she slid into the driver’s seat of her Volvo.
Concentrating on fastening her seat belt and checking her mirrors helped keep her occupied for a minute or so. But once she was headed east on Third Street, the misgivings came back full force. What had possessed her to invite Sam back to her loft? All right, so she hadn’t been laid in -- well, if she stopped to count the months it would be too depressing, but it had been long enough. And fingers and vibrators could only get a girl so far.

Welcome Kya from Kya's King

2010-10-04T09:00:00.000-04:00

1. Hi, it’s good to meet you...uh, wait…my notes have conflicting information here. Is it Hannah or Kya?

I’m Hannah Hall, but I recently found out my birth name is Kya. You can call me whichever you prefer.

2. All right then, Kya, please tell us a little bit about yourself.

Let’s see. I was abandoned on the steps of a church at three years old and raised by my adoptive parents until they died in a car crash when I turned sixteen. I lived in a group home until a couple years ago when I moved to live and work at an animal sanctuary. The people at the sanctuary have claimed me as family, but I still long for something that is missing in my life. I want to study veterinary medicine, but Ja, this hottie with green eyes and long dark hair who showed up on my doorstep one night, says I have a responsibility to my clan. I am not so sure I agree. After all they abandoned me. I didn’t run way. I may have found a connection in him but I am not sure yet.

3. Do you know other types of shifters?

You believe in shifters too? That’s sort of funny. Ja claims I can shift to a wild cat, but seriously, that’s a bit incredible for me to absorb at this point. The sanctuary where I live has rumors of werewolves, ghosts, and even bigfoot, but I believe those stories about as much as I believe I can change. Ja is a gorgeous man, but I can’t imagine that he can change into a sleek, black panther anymore than the boys at the sanctuary can turn into giant wolves. The whole thing is too odd for me to wrap my head around.

4. What’s the greatest challenge to being a shifter?

I have no idea. If I had to answer that, I would guess the whole no pockets thing would be an enormous drawback. I never thought about it much, but animals don’t have anywhere to carry a wallet. So if a shifter starts a journey in animal form, I would guess they could wind up naked without even a credit card to use to buy knew clothes. Of course strolling through a town to pick up a few things could be a downer as well. Yep, no pockets would definitely suck.

5. How did you meet your author?

Becca showed up at the sanctuary one day. Apparently, she and her husband had found a sick golden eagle in a pasture near their home and were looking for someplace that would help rehabilitate it and release it. They had the giant bird in an outbuilding on their property for a couple weeks before someone told them about us. We thought at first that the eagle had lead poisoning and would not be able to return to the wild, but thankfully we were wrong. The bird snapped out of it about the third week that it was with us, and we released it a month later. Becca stopped by frequently to visit with Lady Guinevere until we set the eagle free one beautiful fall morning. It was lovely.

6. What’s she like?

I am not sure how to answer that. Becca is a little odd. She is passionate about weird things like alternative schools and baking. Strange combo, huh? She bakes cakes and cheesecakes for her friends and family and tries to make them as cool as possible. She made one of my brothers a full-on replica of his red bass guitar for his birthday and she made a giant Coor’s Lite can for a friend’s fortieth birthday. Both turned out really cool. She tries to see the positive in every situation and arbores confrontation so will avoid it if she can. She’s not always good at that though, but you have to give her partial credit for effort.

7. How can readers reach your author and buy your book?

Becca is pretty easy to find on Facebook. She also runs a blog that she tries to keep up regularly. http://beccadale.blogspot.com/

My story is called Kya’s King and will be released soon through Decadent.

8. Anything you’d like to add?

Becca is guest blogging with Got Romance Reviews on Oct. 23. She is talking about why people are drawn to paranormal. Check it out if you get time. She also has a recent release from the Wild Rose Press called Surrender at Sea that is about an entirely different kind of cougar and a holiday release coming soon from TWRP called Jingle All the Way. I know she adores hearing from fans and fellow authors so if you get a chance look her up on facebook or stop by her blog.

Please Say Hi to Kate from Requiem, but say it nicely

2010-10-03T11:00:00.000-04:00

1. Hi Kate. It’s lovely to meet you. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Before becoming a vampire succubus, I was the daughter of a prominent Roman politician. I was supposed to marry the son of a wealthy Roman, but when my maker presented this as an option, I took it and never looked back .

2. I’m sure you’ve seen a lot of changes in the world in 5,000 years. What do you consider to be the most significant change it that time?

The steam age was an amazing time. The world revolved around scientific thought rather than silly superstitions—granted the superstition was still there in the uneducated poor. I consider that time the first technological boom since my time in Rome. In the blink of an eye, humans suddenly had improved their lives, communications, and made the world just a bit smaller.

3. Do you consider humankind to be improving in all that time?

Humans are human. They adapt and change, but they often hold onto the same silly thoughts and prejudices. The only difference is the scope of knowledge they possess to base those beliefs. However, the thing that keeps me fascinated by you lot, is your imagination. The world changes because you’re so determined to do so much with the finite time you have in this world.

4. What is it like working with your author?

It can be very difficult at times—but I think we’ve established that it’s my story and it will be told my way. Why finesse the truth?

5. How can readers reach you and buy your book?

Readers can reach me via my author’s website: www.ashleymchristman.com

They can buy the book at Noble Romance, Amazon, and Smashwords

6. Anything you’d like to add?

It was a pleasure being here and I hope your readers will take a chance on a tale of an unrepentant vampire and my adventures.

Our guest today is Lyon Savage, Alpha Jaguar from Under A Shifter's Moon

2010-10-02T06:00:00.000-04:00

1. Hi, please tell us a little bit about yourself.
My name is Lyon Savage. I'm the Alpha of the Jaguar Pride in Los Angeles. My twin brother is Alpha of his own Pride, outside L.A. My truemate, my wife, is Kitlene, a human woman with Jaguar DNA. We have two beautiful twins: Carolene and Blade. Blade will one day be our Pride's Alpha –and it's very salvation.

2. Do you know other types of shifters?
L.A. –as well as the rest of the world –is full of other preternatural beings. The Jaguar Pride isn’t the only one here. I have had associations with Cougars, Wolves, Bears, Coyotes, and others. Humans would be –horrified –to know how many of us are here and living among them.

3. What’s the greatest challenge to being a jaguar?
There is no challenge. I'm Alpha. I'm Jaguar. My word is Rule, my strength is un-contested. The only problem I've been facing lately is trying to discipline and train Blade and Carolene. Kitlene is too soft hearted and fights me on this all the time.

4. Do you have any beauty tips to share?
You're not serious? You'll have to ask Kitlene that question. She's incredibly beautiful.

5. Who, I mean, what’s your favorite snack?
(GRIN) Hmmm. I really enjoy munching on prey. I mean, meat. Deer. Rabbits. Chipmunks!

6. How does the moon affect you?
I'm not a werewolf, but I have been known to get VERY 'frisky' when the Shifter's Moon is full…!

7. How did you meet your author?
Kitlene and I visited her in a dream. We felt our love story had to be told. We bugged her for several years to get it 'just right' before she managed to come up with the story. Good thing too, because I was about ready to send one of my Pride warriors after her –you know –just to give her some 'incentive'!

8. What’s she like?
She reminds me of a Chipmunk shifter. You know, cute, cuddly, always into something. She smiles a lot. She thinks too much sometimes. And she's a worrier. When she can't get the words right in a story she frets and eats a lot of chocolate for inspiration. All in all, she's a sweet, timid little Chippy that needs a hero…

9. How can readers reach your and buy your book?
My author says Under A Shifter’s Moon is available in all Bookstores, Amazon, and at the Publisher: www.blacklyonpublishing.com She also says the best way to get links and other info is to visit her site: www.authorkari.com

10. Anything you’d like to add?
It took Kitlene and me a few years to get our author to write the perfect 'book-of-her-heart' with "Under A Shifter's Moon", so I'd like you to tell everyone that if they love Shapeshifter Romance then THIS is the book for them! Don’t make me send one of my Pride Warriors after you, too…

Lord Benton Richards, English Earl and Werewolf, one of the stars of The Demon's Princess

2010-10-01T04:01:00.000-04:00

1. Hi, please tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Benton Richards. Well, technically, it’s Lord Benton Richards. I’m an English Earl, but I honestly don’t care about the title.

2. Have you encountered prejudice from other shifters?

I don’t really know any other ones, except my brother. It’s a family curse, and if there are others out there, they’ve kept to themselves. I know a demon though, and he has a tendency to use derogatory names for me. Apparently he doesn’t like werewolves.

3. What’s the greatest challenge to being a werewolf?

Getting a date. Seriously though, do you know how hard it is to have a relationship with someone without them knowing you turn furry every time the moon is full? It’s not exactly easy, and it isn’t easy to keep something like that a secret. Thankfully, I met the greatest girl who accepts me for I am, and we’re engaged to be married.

4. Do you have any beauty tips to share?

Um, no. I’m not really a beauty kind of guy. But if you want to know what I look for in a mate, I prefer someone with natural beauty. A girl who puts on a lot of make-up and just has to have the latest fashions, only to toss them out a few months later, is not the kind of girl for me.

5. Who, I mean what’s your favorite snack?

Actually, I enjoy eating pasta. But when I’m on my wolf form, I have a tendency to chase rabbits. Typical dog behavior I suppose.

6. How does the moon affect you?

Well, it makes me change into a wolf the moment it gets dark outside. Of course, when the sun comes up, I change back to a human (until its dark again). I’m usually a wolf for at least 3 nights a month. The shift isn’t painful, unlike the books say. It’s just natural, something I was born with.

7. How did you meet your author?

Would you believe me if I said at Starbucks? She has a thing for white mochas and practically lives there.

8. What’s she like?

Well, she seems to really get me, you know? And when I’m talking, she just let’s me finish whatever I have to say without interrupting. It isn’t like she tries to contain me or anything, I just get to be myself.
Her humor seems to be mostly of the sarcastic variety, but that’s okay, I’m used to it. But she’s open with me, doesn’t hold anything back. I get the feeling she’s like that with everyone. And she’s brutally honest, which be both a blessing and a curse.

9. Does she run around with other characters?

Yeah, she hangs with those wolves from Ashton Grove and Windsor, but that’s okay. It gives me more time with my Lucinda. I hear she may be hanging with some ghosts and vampires at the moment though, and I’m not sure how I feel about that. Werewolves don’t exactly like vampires. Even worse, there’s this fairy named Eric that I can’t seem to get rid of. No matter how much I snap and snarl he just keeps coming back to her.

10. Anything you’d like to add?

Yeah, if you want to hear me about me and my Lucinda, and that pesky demon, be sure to pick up a copy of The Demon’s Princess on October 26th in both e-book and trade paperback. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Please Welcome Deanna Wadsworth

2010-09-14T11:21:00.000-04:00

1. Tell us your latest news.

Well, my first book, Red Riding Hood, was released August 1, 2010 by Decadent Publishing. And just the other day I saw that it was available on Amazon for the Kindle….OMFG! Seeing it there was more surreal than when I got my contract back from Decadent! It was so awesome, you know, like the reality that I am a published author really sunk in!

2. What initially inspired you to become an author?

I would have to attribute my love of reading and writing to my grandparents. When I visited them during the summer, they would be like, “No more TV, read a book.” And we would spend all night reading. Back then I loved my grandpa’s Louis L’Amour books, Passin’ Through is still a fav. I had to be about twelve or thirteen when my grandma gave me a journal and told me to write a story. I guess I have been doing it ever since. I wrote all through my teen years but got distracted with life, career and marriage. Reading and writing fell by the wayside. When we moved into our second house my brother-in-law tried to pick up a box. It was so heavy that he and my husband opened it. It was full of books and my husband looked at me like a cow looking at a new gate and said, “You don’t read books, why do you have these?” That shocked me because it had become true. To prove the worth of keeping all those Anne McCaffery books and Dean Koonz I started rereading them. And I remembered my first love: the written word. I found all my old manuscripts (such bratty little heroines, what does that say of me at 16?) and I said, “I’m gonna write a book.” But it wasn’t until I learned about a local RWA chapter in my area that I realized my lifelong dream could be a reality….and now? Well, it is really happening!

3. What is your favorite book? And Why?

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, hands down. Every time I read the scene when Jane reappears at the Ferndean manor-house to surprise her ‘beloved master’ Mr. Rochester my heart skips and I can’t turn the pages fast enough. For my fifteenth wedding anniversary this year I ordered new wedding bands to inscribe the two phrases, ‘Her I love best’ for my ring and ‘Her who loves you best’ for my husband’s.
The story is about real love against all odds. While Jane is poor, plain and obscure and Mr. Rochester a crabby, less than attractive man, they find a connection they never had with anyone. Nothing, not even a fiend in the tower who burns people in their bed, blindness, age, handicaps, and poverty will keep them apart.

4. Do you have a particular time of day to write? We love to hear about a writer’s process.

Morning. I get out of bed, pass the computer on my way to letting my three little dogs outside (two cocks and a weenie) make coffee, fill the dog bowl, let the dogs back in, grab my coffee then plop my big booty in my giant comfy chair and my computer is ready to write! I don’t work on Monday of Tuesday and I have been known to write for ten or twelve hours non-stop.

5. What do you find to be the most difficult part of writing?

Too many ideas! Too many people living in my head that want their entire story told yesterday! I have WADD…Writers Attention Deficient Syndrome. My biggest issue is starting new stories all the time. As a plotter, I usually write a ten twenty page synopsis out for the entire book. Then I’m so jazzed I do the 30k lightning fast (like a week) but by that time I either got a request for a partial and I have to do some edits, or I’m going to a conference and I have to prepare a mss for pitching or some loud mouthed character starts yammering in my head for their turn. I tell the character and myself, “Well your story should only take a half a day to jot down.” But the characters are sneaky little bastards sometimes and they have no plans to let me finish their story so quickly. Two months later I’m still writing their story and the old story is in the ever growing to-do pile.
But I have a friend now that keeps me in line…though secretly I am working on a story she doesn’t know about. I know! I’m so bad, right? I feel so guilty. Like I’m having an affair or something! LOL Hopefully she doesn’t read this!

6. Do you have a favorite author?

That’s a tuffy. . . . . like picking just one candy out of the box of chocolates. Anne McCaffery, Sherilyon Kenyon, CS Lewis, Lewis Carrol, Diana Gabaldon, Kevin Anderson, Jane Austin . . . . I could go on but I won’t!

7. Tell us about your first published work.

It is an erotic fairy tale told in an old fashioned voice complete with the ‘Once upon a time’ intro and everything.
Red Riding Hood is on a journey to find the one man who can take her to heights she’s only sampled. She just doesn’t know it’s going to come in the shape of a powerful master in wolf’s clothing. I think it’s pretty darn funny for an erotica, too, if I do say so myself. Is that conceited? Sorry!
The inspiration for the story came when a friend told me I should write a dirty Red Riding Hood story because at the time all my other books were in various states of edit and she wanted to read something I wrote. Well, when I presented the story she went, “Holy crap, I didn’t meant that!” Guess she meant romance novel not a BDSM erotica. She forgot I am a writer and I take the word ‘dirty’ literally.

8. Do you have a favorite of your own works?

I tend to love all of my characters, because if they are just a passing idea I ignore their stories and move on to another book. See question #5. I am writing m/m right now and the two sexy men in my latest unfinished mss are my favorite. But I honestly love them all. To me my characters are real and I see their lives long after I type ‘the end.’ I guess that’s why I like the idea of writing series.

9. Where can our readers find you on the web?

I am still working on a website but you can find my blog “Midnight Ramblings” at deannawadsworth@blogspot.com

10. Where can they buy your books?

Decadentpublishing.com or Amazon.com under Kindle books

11. Anything you would like to add?

Just thanks, Kate! This was fun and I hope everyone checks out Red Riding Hood and keeps their eye open for my next erotic fairy tale…The Frog Prince!

Please Welcome Raven Carluk

2010-09-14T11:18:00.000-04:00

1. Tell us your latest news.

My latest book, stories with bite o,.,o, is now available on Amazon on the Kindle. Working through the last steps for the print book. It’s a collection of my short stories, and is very much worth checking out. I’m also working on making book trailers for both stories with bite o,.,o and All Hallows Blood. In October, I’ll be giving a little lecture at the Muse Online Conference about how to embrace your inner Mary Sue.

2. What initially inspired you to become an author?

I’m a natural born storyteller. Since I was young, I’ve been coming up with tales. It was inevitable that I start marketing my work, and putting it out there for people to read.

3. What is your favorite book? And Why?

Green Eggs and Ham. It’s the first book I remember reading. I still see myself sitting at the kitchen table, reading it to my mom while she made dinner. It’s stuck with me, because it has a great message; be willing to try something new. I think that’s an important statement, and more people should embrace it.

4. Do you have a particular time of day to write? We love to hear about a writer’s process.

I mostly write at work, which is through the afternoon and early evening. I’ve got my trusty notebook with my Orlando Bloom pictures in it, and I just write as much as I can. I work in a call center, so there’s downtime during calls and between them where I can pour out my creations. Some days it’s harder than others, but I get to write pretty consistently. If I don’t, I start to slowly go mad.

5. What do you find to be the most difficult part of writing?

The writing and editing parts are all pretty easy for me. I sometimes forget to include descriptions and details while I’m writing, but my beta reader pokes at me to get me on track. The hardest part about being an author has been the promoting part. I’ve never been much of a networker, or even someone who makes small talk well, so I sometimes feel I’m in over my head. It takes away my creative time, and balancing promotions with writing is pretty difficult.

6. Do you have a favorite author?

A couple. Michael Moorcock, because I love Elric so much. Carrie Vaughn has a fantastic world built in her Kitty series. And George RR Martin, who impresses me with his ability to keep such a huge world going.

7. Tell us about your first published work.

My first work is All Hallows Blood. My publication is a bit Cinderella, because I went from original idea to released to the public in just under two and a half years. I tried to write a unique book, and the fact that it was so quickly accepted proves that to me.

All Hallows Blood is a vampire romance. Keila O’Broin is a psionist from a long line of psychic warriors. At the beginning of the book, she’s been going through some hard times; both parents are dead, and she’s drinking herself into a stupor. Some dead teens ask her to avenge them, and she can’t tell them no.

Keila finds and fights the killer, only to find out he’s a vampire. Since she’s from this long line of psychics, she already knows vampires exist, and doesn’t think too much of it. Before she really has time to think, Varick, master vampire of Portland, pressgangs her into helping him.

So now my depressed and borderline alcoholic heroine is doing battle to protect the city, and slowly falling for the white-haired vampire Varick. There’s sex, and blood, and fighting, and sadness, and emotional growth. It moves pretty fast, and reaches a satisfying end. All which leave you ready for the sequel, which I’m still developing.

8. Do you have a favorite of your own works?

Other than All Hallows Blood, one of my favorites is The Opening. It’s the second story in stories with bite o,.,o, and it’s about this shy young woman at the opening of an art gallery. I don’t want to spoil the ending (it’s a pretty short tale), but it always just gives me a touch of hope. A “I am not alone” type moment.

9. Where can our readers find you on the web?

Raven.YouAreAnnoying.Us is my home page. I update that fairly regularly, and keep a bunch of short stories there. All my art is also on display there.

RavenCorinnCarluk.Blogspot.Com is my blog, and I post once or twice a week. More if anything cool happens.

Facebook, and Twitter.

I really look forward to hearing from everybody.

10. Where can they buy your books?
Amazon has the purchase links to both my books.

11. Anything you would like to add?

I like meeting new people, and talking about vampires, or fantasy, or dragons, or just about anything else. Reach out to me, even if not to talk about my books.