Friday, July 25, 2014

~ Symposium: Counting Stars ~

Hello Everyone! Welcome to my July Symposium!


Since we are at the halfway point of the year, this month I thought I’d asked my friends and fellow authors to give everyone an update on what they will be working on so all you readers out there will know what you have to look forward to. So, mark your calendars, ladies and gents...we have some awesome releases coming your way!


LAURIE ROMA: This year has been crazy so far, but I am looking forward to this next half and plan to stay pretty damn busy. I’m currently finishing up the 2nd book of my Breakers’ Bad Boy series, Nyght’s Eve, then I will be heading straight into my next contribution to the 3013 Series - 3013: SALVATION, which is Skylar, Dom and Arik’s story. I have several books planned for both of these series, but I also have another special project I will start working on here and there. It is going to be a trilogy, unlike anything I have written so far...and I think it’s going to be a lot of fun. For all my Arcadian and IAD fans, I do plan on continuing those series, but they will have to wait for a little while. Now, if I can only find the time to write all these books. LOL Happy Reading!

Jared “Hammer” Caufield is a former Army Ranger and retired professional MMA champion that had to give up his fighting career due to a knee injury. He is a bad boy through and through, but that doesn’t stop him from craving the sweet little bakery owner, even though he knows she is too good for him…

Bakery owner, Kalista Redford, is a woman who has had a difficult past. She has always struggled with her self-esteem, and her last breakup hasn’t done anything to help improve her opinion of herself. When Kalista finds herself pursued by the dark and dangerous man she has secretly dreamed about, will she be able to follow her heart or will past insecurities threaten to ruin her chance at true love?


BUY LINKS:

AMAZON     EVERNIGHT     ARe     B&N

JOEY W. HILL: I’m working on Elusive Hero, my contribution to the Invitation to Eden series (think Fantasy Island, with 27 authors writing 27 adventures for an island paradise). Elusive Hero is also a standalone in my Vampire Queen series. My heroine is an anomaly - a submissive vampire - and in Eden she embraces one weekend where she can submit…to a human male! 

Buy links are up to date at Invitation to Eden website as the books go live (3 per month!). This page also has the book schedule and blurbs – www.invitationtoeden.com


Vampires drink blood, they’re superior to humans, and they’re sexual Dominants. Every vampire knows those truths. A vampire’s human servant is property, plaything, pawn—and the only living being a vampire can trust. Though she may own him, body, heart and soul, a human servant keeps a vampire from feeling alone in her dangerous, political world.

But Kaela has a secret. She’s a vampire with a burning need to submit, to belong to a Master, and definitely not a vampire Master, who will use the advantage for political or emotional domination. But what kind of human male will consent to becoming a vampire’s servant, a 300-year life of utter servitude, to be her Master behind closed doors? An invitation to Eden offers her the chance to discover her elusive hero…and indulge the bliss of surrender.


CHECK OUT THE SERIES AT:


NJ WALTERS: What can readers count on over the next few months? Plenty. Because so many readers wanted more, I’ve written three novellas for the Hades’ Carnival series. Watch for Heart of the Serpent (January 13, 2015), Flame of the Phoenix (April 14, 2015) and Lure of the Jaguar (July 14, 2015). I’ve also been busy with the Salvation Pack series. Wolf on the Run (Cole’s book) will be released on October 28th, 2014 and I’ve already signed a contract for Wolf from the Past (Gator’s book). I’m starting work on the fifth Salvation Pack book (Louis’ book) right now. I’ve also got a new futuristic series coming soon with Ellora’s Cave. It’s about the Marks brothers, a group of deep space traders/mercenaries who are searching for their missing sister. Rescuing Rory will be out later this year and I just finished working on the second book in this new series. So many books to write! 

Is he Prince Charming or the Big Bad Wolf?  
Salvation Pack, Book 2 

Anny Conrad is a single thirty-year-old librarian—a cliché complete with two cats. Dragged out to a local bar, she’s rethinking her life plan over a few drinks when a man walks up and asks her to dance. And what a man. Tall, rugged and more than a little untamed. Before she knows it, she’s in his arms and throwing caution to the wind. 

With a pack war in full, deadly swing, the last thing Armand LaForge needs right now is a woman in his life, much less a human. But one thing is certain, he’s met his mate, the one woman in the world for him. 

The kindest thing to do is give her all the hot sex she wants and then leave her alone. But when the morning comes, fate isn’t done screwing with them. Anny is confronted with the fact that the myths in her library books are real…and now she’s one of them. 

Warning: A night out at a club can lead to a loss of inhibitions and hot sex with a werewolf. Your life will never be the same. You’ve been warned. 

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON      SAMHAIN     B&N     KOBO

SAM CRESCENT: It has been a pretty good year for me so far and I’m working on my bad biker boys. The series, The Skulls and Chaos Bleeds, took me completely by surprise. They’re rough biker men who are determined to claim their women when they find her. With how dominating my men are being I’d say to expect more biker books from me. For the rest of the year, I’m looking toward The Skulls, Chaos Bleeds, along with completing a couple of the series I’ve already got running. Also, I’ve had some fitting inspiration for some wolves LOL. I think I’m just going to spend the rest of the year as I mean to go on, whatever inspiration hits, I’m going to go with it. What do you have planned for the rest of your year?


Cole Fowler never settles down and he doesn’t do love. He likes sex and women and he’s not ashamed to have both in abundance. When his bike is in need of repair, he stops at a bar intent on earning enough money for the bike and to live off in the coming months. Then he meets Sandy and all bets are off. 

Sandy has never fit in. She hates to be controlled and studying at the local college doesn’t challenge her. Nothing interests her. The need to travel is in her blood. 

The attraction between them is instant. Sandy knows Cole will not stick around but no one ever said she couldn’t become a nomad, too. Has Cole finally met his female match?


BUY LINKS:


AMAZON     ARe     BOOKSTRAND     EVERNIGHT


SUSAN HAYES: I’m not happy with Laurie for reminding me this year is half over already! I have a lot to do before 2014 is over. Wilde Ink, book three in the Wilde Brothers series is my next project. Nick Wilde is already talking to me, and he’s got a great many opinions on how he thinks his story should go. (I already can tell he’s not going to get it all his way.) After Wilde Ink, 3013: TARGETED is next. I’m going back to Alpha Station X2 for this book, which will be about T’karra, a Krytos female I introduced in 3013: STOWAWAY. Somewhere in there, I also hope to do another short story for my Finders Keepers series. So, three books and three different genres. Sci fi, contemporary and paranormal. That should keep me busy until the holiday season, when I’ll start the cycle all over again. 

Sonja Grekov has spent her life in a gilded cage, trapped by her wealthy family’s expectations and the scroll tattoo on her face that declares her to be one of the coveted fertile women on Earth. No longer willing to be a pawn to further her parents’ ambition, she finally finds the courage to break free before she can be claimed in a loveless match. She is determined to set her own path, but never expected where it would take her... 

Trevar Storm and Deacon Wilde are Alliance Elites, but there’s nothing elite about their current assignment. They crew one of the oldest freighters in the fleet, ferrying goods across Alliance controlled space with just each other for company. With a reputation for trouble and no chance at promotion, the two men are planning for the day they can go into business for themselves and leave their military lives behind. 

A straightforward supply run turns into a life changing event when the two elites discover a treasure hidden in their cargo bay. Keeping their sexy stowaway may bring the full wrath of the Alliance down on their heads, but Trevar and Deacon won’t let her go without a fight. Will their journey end in heartache, or can three misfit hearts find love in the darkness between the stars? 

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON     ARe

LACEY THORN: Looking at my writing plans for the rest of the year has me ready to pull my hair out! Where has all my time gone, and why do I feel so behind schedule? I'd hoped to get so much more written this year! All in all, I'm pretty happy with what I've released and what's in the works to release by year's end! I still have two Awakening Pride books coming out. One is scheduled for August and the other in December! It won't be ending though! I'll jump back in next year with fresh stories. I have one more Pleasures book for this year, a Halloween spoof! Hoping fans of the series will enjoy it! I also have a special project I'm working on with several other authors! I can't be specific yet, but I will say there are two westerns coming out from me this year. Thanks to my awesome readers for all the love shown to me and my books! You guys rock!!!!


Skye has a secret she's kept from everyone. Three lovers who cross in and out of her life as time permits. Seeing her sisters so happy makes her want more for herself.

Rance, Sawyer and Jeff have taken turns joining in sex games with Skye. Now all three men are willing to admit they want more. If Skye wants to keep her agents of pleasure, she's going to have to agree to forever.


BUY LINKS:

RESPLENDENCE     ARe     AMAZON     B&N

REBECCA JOYCE: Counting the Stars…well let me count the numerous open WIPS on my dry erase board…um, that’s what I thought, a whole bunch! But seriously, I am looking to wrap up the Treasure Cove Series in the next two or three books, as I head on over to Celestial. That’s right, those wacky folks from Celestial are getting their own series. I’m still working on the next Armstrong book, (Mitchell’s story), and hope to have it finished by the end of this year. I’m also venturing into something different, something dark, and delicious, but it’s still in the formatting phase, but as soon as something concrete comes about, ya’ll will be the first to know. Other than that, I plan on writing whatever pops into my naughty little head. (((HUGS))) & LOVE to everyone and Keep Reading!!!


Sara Joseph is hiding many secrets. Trying to forget her past, she moves on and resigns herself to best-friend status, until one night when an opportunity presents itself.

Jason Ramsey, known as ‘the Kid’ at the Pleasure Cave, is unsure of his life path. After a horrible motorcycle accident scars his body, he hides beneath a mask which has become a second skin to him.

Chip Patterson is determined to take back what he let go many years ago. Accepting a job as the Master of Whips in Tunnel 4, he has no clue what lies ahead of him.

Secrets from the past come to a boiling point, and Sara must choose between her best friend and the Master who let her go. Choosing between them is not an option for her, but figures a little manipulation will go a long way, especially when the whips are stacked in her favor!

BUY LINK:

SIREN

JENIKA SNOW: This year is filled with a lot of new stories for me. I plan on adding to my already created series. My priorities right now are several more books in the Sweet Water series (a town full of shifters), adding some stories on my sci-fi, demon looking multiple partner series, The Warriors of Hades, and adding the next generation of stories to The Grizzly MC (a bear shifting biker club.) The next generation will be about the children of those bear shifting bikers. I have several more stories planned, and hope to write at least two books a month. For my next self-published endeavor I will be working on my contribution to the 3013 series, and adding another Dark Erotic story to my collection. 


Booshie, the vice president of The Vicious Bastards MC, wants Naggie in the filthiest of ways, but she is taken and off-limits. So, he backs off, and knows that this is one of the rare times he won't get what he wants. 

Naggie Conner is wild, speaks her mind, and is covered in ink. That is her life and she's happy with who she is. When she catches her boyfriend in bed with the town tramp, she doesn't hold back her anger.

A girls night out seems like the perfect therapy to put her ex behind her. But a night of drunken abandon ends up with her going home with Booshie. Being with the alpha biker is exactly how she envisioned: untamed, explosive, and addictive. But Booshie doesn't want just one night with Naggie, and he is not the type of man to be denied.

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON     EVERNIGHT     ARe

KD JONES: Hi everyone. It has been a crazy year so far. I have already written four books this year. I have more on the way. You will be seeing Isis (book 7 in the Galactic Cage Fighter Series.) which will be released August 26th, 2014. Then I will be working on book 2 in my Inter-Galactic Bounty Hunters Series, Book 9 in my Katieran Prime Series, and I will be introducing a brand new series that I hope everyone will love.

Isis fleas her homeworld and goes to the one place her own people would never think to look for her. She signs on as a fighter for the Galactic Cage Fighters Association on the halfsie side. It is a new start for a new life. The only problem is, she finds herself attracted to the wrong male. Her new life may be threatened as those that wish to control her, search for her.

Torch is a Voltan halfsie fighting for the Galactic Cage Fighters Association. He joined to get the GCFA so that he could get to know his niece. Torch knows he has a tendancy to self-destruct but can’t seem to stop drowning his loneliness in alcohol and females. But one female refuses his flirtations which drives him crazy. How could any female deny him?

He is fire and she is ice. The moment Torch sees her he knows that he has to have her. He is the one temptation that Isis cannot refuse. Will they give in to the mutual attraction? Will their passion erupt and burn them both? Or will the truth of who Isis is pull them apart forever?

AUTHOR LINKS:


VELLA DAY: I'm turning my focus to my Pack Wars paranormal books. Book 4, LOVING THEIR VIXEN MATE will be released Sept 10th. I will then turn my attention to Pack Wars, book 5 (untitled), but it will star the cousin and roommate of book 4's heroine. Sandwiched in between will be another contemporary novella, tentatively titled, AWAKENING PASSIONS. Should there be any days left in the year, I want to return to my MONTANA PROMISES series. Book 4 will star Vic Hart, the former undercover FBI agent from book 3. His heroine? He has yet to tell me, but recommendations are considered. 


What would you do if you were given a second chance to find love?

When fun loving, Ali McDaniels, is contracted to assist in creating an online training class for LACE hospital, she’s thrilled to be paired with her former college boyfriend, Dr. Randy Carstead. Too bad his ambition turned him into a too-serious doctor in the thirteen years they’ve been apart. Despite the job in Rock Hard being only three weeks, she’s determined to loosen him up. 

As an Emergency Room doctor, Randy has always had one goal—to help others. But when Ali McDaniels walks into his life, something changes. She intrigues him and turns his world upside down—both in and out of the bedroom.

What will Ali have to do to get Randy to go from scalpels and stethoscopes to being a bad boy biker and a tie-me-up, kiss-me-hard lover?

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON     B&N     KOBO     ARe     GOOGLE

ELODIE PARKES: Hi Laurie and readers, It’s great to be back at the July symposium to talk about what’s happening for me in the rest of the year. I have so many projects on the go it sure feels like a long hot summer. I have two releases coming up, ‘The Summer Heat’, and ‘Love at First Sigh,’ in August. I enjoyed creating these characters and stories so much. September I have a story, ‘The White Bear Prince’ in a Crushing Hearts anthology. September/October, Siren will release a full length story, ‘Café in the Park,’ a paranormal, erotic romance, and November I have a scorching love story in a Hot Ink anthology, titled, ‘Serendipity.’ I’ll be working with the publishers and editors on those releases in the latter half of the year. There’ll be exciting times when the cover art lands in my inbox and deadlines to meet with editing, but it’s so great when stories finally release. I put all my heart into everyone and hope that shines through. XOXO Elodie


When Melissa fleetingly meets Sascha in a nightclub, she hopes he will approach her.

Sascha has secrets and it’s a long time since there was a woman in his life.

Unknown to both of them someone watches jealously.

Will this jealousy stop the budding romance between two people who both have something to hide?

An erotic, paranormal romance, full of surprises.

BUY LINK:

AMAZON

ROSANNA LEO: Thanks to the lovely Laurie for hosting us again! This has been an exciting year for me with two hot releases and more coming soon. On Sept. 8, Predator's Fire, Gemini Island Shifters 5, is released, the newest installment of this sexy shifter series. I'm also busy with several new manuscripts. I have begun an incubus story involving a classical soprano, her hot conductor and a very possessive demon. I hope to finish this soon. I also hope to start the next book in my Orkney Selkies series. This seductive series caught the eye of a reporter at BBC Radio Orkney last year and it was featured for a short radio interview! And before long, I plan to write the last book in the Gemini Island Shifters series, and this one will be a menage featuring gorgeous jaguar brothers. Stay tuned and stay sexy!


For years, wolf shifter Bart Cairo has harbored secret feelings for his co-worker, Charlotte Moffatt. Even though he thinks he’s been discreet with his affections, everyone at Gemini Island’s Ursa Fishing Lodge knows he and Charlotte, a fellow wolf shifter, are meant to be mates. Everyone but Charlotte.

Charlotte couldn’t be less interested in mating. A free spirit, she wants nothing more than to succeed at her new career in the big city and leave small-town Gemini Island behind. However, she can’t deny Bart stirs up unwanted emotions inside her. Emotions she swore she’d never feel again.

The occasion of Bart’s family reunion compels him to assume new responsibilities, and to consider a role he never envisioned for himself. Family tensions rise to the surface as a new Alpha is proclaimed in his pack. And when old grudges escalate, Bart must stake his claim.

Charlotte resists as he stakes a claim on her as well. But when he begins to employ sexual tactics of temptation, she wonders if the only solution is submission to the enticing wolf man. Can she trust her heart again? And can they find their happy ending before an enemy cuts their story short?


BUY LINKS:


JESS BUFFETT: The year may be half through, but there is still plenty more coming from me for the rest of the year. I have three new series taking off – Wickedly Ever After, which is a co-authored series where we bring you your favourite fairy tales with a wicked twist. Shore Point Pack, a new series which has grown from a short Christmas story I wrote last year. And The Vaucluse Coven which is a spin-off of my Hunter Clan series. I also have a number of sequels on their way this year for both my cowboys series and my my Angels – Sons of the Seven. And the last two instalments to my Keepers series will be released for Halloween and Christmas. Though most important will be the re-release of my book Always Been You which will hopefully be out before Christmas and with more than 15k added to the original story! 

Tessa Cardwell’s life changed overnight when she was left to raise her five siblings. When a friend suggested moving to the small town of New Hope, she packed up her family and set out with not a clue of what waited for them there. Used to doing everything on her own, she finds herself in the middle of a life changing experience—that is if she can let go of her inhibition and hold onto the two men fate placed in front of her.

Leontis Harper searched for the woman who turned his life upside down a few months earlier. Determined to find her lands him in New Hope Valley and places him in a situation he has come quite used to—rejection. He had dealt with it his whole life, but he finds rejection hurts more when it comes from the two who were supposed to accept him without question. 

Sage Ashcroft is the last White Tiger Alpha. What the Alpha wants he gets, well until now. He finds himself in a situation which could enhance his life or destroy it, if he doesn't learn to compromise. The wrong choice, and he could be the one on the outside looking in on a life that was destined for him. 

With the prophesy hanging over their heads, secrets being revealed, and enemies banding together, the New Hope Valley Pride faces many changes. Join in as the Pride gains strength it never knew was possible until the Alpha, the onyx, and the fire combine.

BUY LINKS:

ARe     AMAZON     B&N     KOBO

ERIKA REED: I am excited about my new book I have just started working on. This new series is a special new project that I can’t really get into too many specifics about, but I assure all readers, it will be one that is sure to tap into everyone’s fantasies. I can tell you the research on this new book has been quite fascinating and has brought up new questions and even answers to things I have often wondered myself. I'll let you all in on a clue, at one time or another each of us have been curious and wondered, “what it would be like if” and that’s where my story pulls you in as a reader.  I have so many wild ideas pertaining to this new series and can’t wait to share them with you all very soon!

Sage Monroe is tired of being stepped on and feeling unloved by the people she cares most about in life. To make matters worse, her ex is trying to extort money from her with a video she knows nothing about. When the attractive Duffey cousins come to her rescue, she’s grateful, especially if they can help fix her problems before word gets back to her father. 

Tye, Kash, and Tristan Duffey have been smitten over the sexy little cocktail waitress since the moment they laid eyes on the beautiful blonde. When they discover Sage’s apartment had been robbed and her ex is blackmailing their woman, the three will stop at nothing to ensure her safety. The three cousins take control of the situation and vow to eliminate the problem that is causing chaos in her life. 

Can their love for one another overcome life’s obstacles that threaten to jeopardize their future? 

BUY LINK:


WILLOW BROOKE: Hi everyone! Thank you so much to the amazing Laurie for inviting me back again! Love you girl. As much as I hate to admit it, I get bored easily and start things I don’t finish. From the trash sack full of material shoved in my closet with my sewing machine, to the half afghan sitting on my dresser with the crochet hook still in mid stitch, the proof is everywhere. When I started writing, I found the perfect job that keeps me entertained and on a straight path that allows me to bounce around yet still finish what I start. So, you all know I have my military series, Breaking Protocol, my paranormal series, Twisted Fate, and the fairy tale series, Wickedly Ever After. Now that my muse has squirrelified once more, I’ve started a western and a detective series to add to my list with ideas for body guards and assassins on the back burner. I want to break through and embrace every genre I can with the hopes to have a little something for everyone. In the detective series, I’m taking a new approach. Instead of the normal 30 to 80k length, I want to push this one into full length novels over the 100k word count and expand my writing style with new angles and techniques. So, that’s my plans for the rest of 2014! Super hugs and happy reading!

Robin Hoode was born with a silver spoon in mouth, but never felt comfortable in the life of wealth and privilege. Growing up, she had always been the odd sheep in the family, taking her over abundance of lunch money and extra food to the homeless and less fortunate in secrecy. When the mayor taxes the town’s people out of their homes and out on the streets, Robin sees an opportunity to take a stand and give back to the very people whose blood and sweat built their city. Like a thief in the night, Robin Hoode steals from the rich to give to the poor. 

Will Scarlett had a great career, owned his own house, and lived a comfortable life…until Mayor Nottingham ruined the blue-collar economy and he lost everything. Forced out of his home, he joins forces with others like him and takes refuge in Sherwood Forest, living a life of serene simplicity. When a nosey little journalist starts poking around in their business threatening their existence with promises of money and supplies, he fights the undeniable attraction and the ache in his jeans to protect their last resort for survival. 

John Naylor, or Little John as he was known growing up, has loved Robin as long as he could remember. When she takes notice of him for the first time as the attractive man he has become, John risks it all to help her on her mission—even at the cost of family and his position in life. 

Come to Sherwood Forest where fairy tales are made and love has no boundaries. Robin Hoode, one thief—two men who love her—and a town full of despair. 


BUY LINK:

AMAZON

KALI ARGENT: It’s already July? How the hell did that happen? I guess you could say I’m a little late to the party since I just released my first book, so I’ll be playing catch-up for the rest of the year. The second and third books in the Prelude series are in the immediate queue. These are short, sexy stories of first meetings, accidental encounters, and new beginnings. Night’s Edge is a fun urban fantasy piece that I’m just so excited about I could spit, and I hope everyone loves Ara and Fawkes as much as I do! I’m also very pleased to announce my contribution to the 3013 series—3013: MENDED. I’m so honored and overwhelmed to be working with such a talented group of ladies, and I can’t wait to share with everyone. Happy reading! 

Sometimes, new beginnings come from unexpected places. 

To Cecily Baker, being unattached means making her own decisions, living by her own rules, and never answering to anyone. So when her sister drags her to a singles night at a local club—and then ditches her—it only strengthens Cecily’s conviction that dating just isn’t for her. 

Pulling double duty as a bouncer and a bartender, Rafe Serento has seen a parade of beautiful women walk through the doors of Electric Mist, but he’s never met anyone like Cecily. Lovely in every sense of the word, and just as stubborn, she challenges everything he thought he wanted in a relationship. 

The more Cecily pushes him away, though, the harder Rafe pushes back, and unless they find some common ground, they’ll both end up Alone. 

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON     ARe     B&N


***Everyone, be sure to stop by Kali Argent's Blog today to check out her Fourth Friday Faves. What would you need to survive the Zombie Apocalypse?***

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

~ Guest: Kali Argent - New Release - Alone ~

Sometimes, new beginnings come from unexpected places.

To Cecily Baker, being unattached means making her own decisions, living by her own rules, and never answering to anyone. So when her sister drags her to a singles night at a local club—and then ditches her—it only strengthens Cecily’s conviction that dating just isn’t for her. 

Pulling double duty as a bouncer and a bartender, Rafe Serento has seen a parade of beautiful women walk through the doors of Electric Mist, but he’s never met anyone like Cecily. Lovely in every sense of the word, and just as stubborn, she challenges everything he thought he wanted in a relationship. 

The more Cecily pushes him away, though, the harder Rafe pushes back, and unless they find some common ground, they’ll both end up Alone.

Now available from:

EXCERPT
“About four years now.” The tightness in her voice testified to her level of pain, but Cecily didn’t complain as she limped beside him. “Thank you, by the way. I’m sure this isn’t how you planned to spend your night.”
“Oh, I don’t know. I like to think I’m something of a superhero. Leaping tall buildings, racing bullets, and helping beautiful damsels in distress. It’s all in the job description.”
Cecily laughed at his lame joke, a deep, throaty chuckle that tripped his pulse into a gallop. “Mild mannered bouncer by night, milder mannered superhero by later night? Sounds intriguing.”
“Yeah, but it’s not all fun and games.” The breeze shifted, bringing with it the faint scent of floral perfume mixed with just a hint of vodka. “I mean, where do you even find a phone booth in this town?”
Nearing the crosswalk, Cecily pulled him to a stop and leaned heavily against his side. “Just one second, okay? Sorry about this.”
He could tell her not to apologize for something she had no control over, but Rafe had a feeling anything he said would fall on deaf ears. “I’m not in any hurry,” he answered instead. “I don’t have anywhere to be, and it’s not like I’ve got someone waiting up for me.”
“So you live alone?” Cecily sounded nothing more than mildly curious as she reached over to drop her shoes into the nearby trashcan. “I really liked those shoes,” she mumbled offhandedly. “They hurt like hell, but they were pretty.”
“I’m sorry for your loss. We’ll look into grief counseling in the morning.”
Cecily’s husky laughter ended abruptly when she sucked in a sharp breath through gritted teeth. “Light’s green. I’m ready.” She held a little tighter to his arm as they crossed the street, allowing him to support just a bit more of her weight. “You never did answer. About living alone?”
“Miss Baker, are you flirting with me? Trying to get me all to yourself?”
“I already have you to myself, Mr. Serento, but don’t worry. I promise not to take advantage.”
The Garden Apartments loomed just ahead, windows illuminated with soft amber lights or flickering with the glow of television sets. “Almost there. How you doing?”
“It hurts.” Cecily pulled his wool coat more securely around herself as she limped along beside him. “I’ll live, though. I think you were on to something with that bed rest and aspirin plan.”
Neither of them spoke again as they made their way along the canal to the complex. The silence was peaceful, not awkward or uncomfortable, and Rafe felt a small pang of disappointment when they finally reached their destination.
“Here we are, safe and sound as promised.” He gazed up at the wall of windows. “Tell me you’re not on the fifth floor.”
Ducking her head, Cecily tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and bit down on her bottom lip. “I’m on the fifth floor.”
“Well, okay.” In one fluid motion, he swept Cecily into his arms and strode toward the steps.
Cecily squealed, a sound he didn’t think her capable of making, and swatted him in the back of the head. “What the hell are you doing?”
“How else do you plan to make it up five flights of stairs?”
“Shut up.” With a disgruntled, though adorable, growl, she settled into his arms and stopped squirming. “Are you always like this?”
“Like what?”
“Logical.”
“Oh, absolutely not.” Rafe shook his head as he ascended the third flight of steps. “Probably ninety percent of the shit I say makes no sense whatsoever.”
“You’re not like most guys.”
It sounded like a compliment. She looked thoughtful instead of disgusted when she said it. I’m going to take it as a compliment.
“Do you need help getting settled?” he asked when they reached the landing on the top floor.
He expected her stubborn pride to make a comeback, so he was pleasantly surprised when she nodded and pointed toward her apartment door.
“If you don’t mind, I’d appreciate it.” Cecily paused and tilted her head to the side. “You’re not a serial killer, right?”
“Not recently.”
“Or a prude?”
“Uh…” The air suddenly felt thick and suffocating, and heat crawled up Rafe’s neck to his cheeks. “Why do you ask?”
Pushing the lapels of his jacket aside, she licked her full lips while her green eyes danced with what he could only assume was mischief. “My apartment key…” Cecily skimmed her fingers along the swell of her left breast and reached into the plunging neckline of her dress to produce a sing, gold key. “Ta-da.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR




Born with a silver tongue and a pen in her hand, Kali spends her days sleeping (she's part vampire) and her nights crafting scandalous romances with larger-than-life heroes.

Self-proclaimed patron goddess of reclusiveness, Kali currently resides in the Midwest with her oddly supportive family and tragically misunderstood cat. 

Seriously, though, the cat is evil.

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Friday, July 4, 2014

~ Bad Boys and Their Ink - Guest: Dusty Rhoads ~


HAPPY 4th OF JULY!


Today I have a very special guest, my friend and tattoo artist, Dusty Rhoads! Since I’m working on the next book of my Breakers’ Bad Boys series, I thought it would be fun to have Dusty come visit and chat with us about what he does. I asked some of my readers to provide some questions for him to answer, and he had graciously done so. 


Now, sit back and prepare to be entertained!


Thanks for the opportunity to let others see into the life of a tattoo artist. Answering some of these questions will probably shine some light on what goes on in my world...

1. Why do you think woman (and some men) are attracted to bad boys with lots of tattoos?

I think the attraction for some people with a “Bad Boy” as you put it, with lots of ink is an attraction to the unknown in some cases. These women or men may not have a tattoo, or have a small one or two, but can’t understand how someone like me—who is sleeved, full chest, thighs, calves, feet, and hands—could sit through all this tattoo work. Through forming a personal relationship with me, they start to see how patient, understanding and caring I can be. Their guard is let down and feelings of desire may form. It’s not love, but lust. The person will start touching my skin with wild eyes.

2. If someone has an old tat that is messed up, would you recommend touching it up or covering it with something new?

If a person has an old tat that is in need of attention, I suggest talking to a few artist or going to someone that you know their work and love it. Talk with your artist and weigh out your options, and what budget you would like to be in. Be open. Understand that nightmare cover-ups require lots of planning.

3. Without giving names, who was your worst client and why?

Worst client. Guy or girl walks in and says: “Hey.” 
Me: “Hello.”
Customer: “How much for a sleeve?” 
Me: “A sleeve of what?” 
Customer: “I don’t know, anything.” 
To which I reply with a bunch of ideas, like Japanese style, colorbomb graffiti, tribal, islander, photo realism... Do some homework about what you want to get a tattoo of as a customer. You have the responsibility to yourself do a little research for photo reference of a tattoo. When it comes to an entire sleeve who would pay at least a thousand dollars for “I don’t care?” If you don’t care what you get, should I spend three hours coming up with a sleeve, and hand draw marker to skin your sleeve to fit perfectly if you as the customer don’t care what you get? This type of customer is usually just getting work done to fit in with other tattooed people.

4. How did you become a tattoo artist? Where did you learn?

I learned to tattoo in Rockford Illinois. I did a piercing apprenticeship , and another for tattoos. I have been working in a tattoo shop for 13 years now. I’m 33 yrs old.

5. What is your advice to someone who wants to get a tattoo, but doesn’t know what they want?

If you want to get a tattoo, think long and hard about what and why. Research the meaning of some of the traditional designs, and see if something grabs you.

6. What is your advice to someone who is getting something you think will look horrible?

Ultimately, a stupid idea for a tattoo really depends on the client. People get little travel marks, or lovers names, or other spontaneous tattoos to mark an occasion. Is a tattoo of a peach a stupid idea? Not to a girl born in Georgia.

7. What do you think is the most difficult area of the body to tattoo and why?

Stomach is my least favorite, by far. It’s moving while you take a breath, and is a little painful.

8. What is the strangest place you have ever given someone a tattoo and why?

Tattooed a black heart on the shaft of my own penis. The why is a little difficult to explain...

9. What is the longest (time frame) tattoo you’ve given and what was it?

Longest was five or six hours without a break. After that, I took the rest of the day off. Tattooing can be exhausting.

10. Have you ever done a tattoo that offended you? What was it?

Nah, I’m not easily offended. It’s the people that can be offensive, not the tattoo. ;)

11. What’s the one thing you would tell someone about tattooing that no one seems to know when they walk into your shop?

Tattooing is a one on one business. Talk to me, form a connection with me, and your tattoo will be the best.


Wanna see the fun Dusty and I had together recently? Here is the new tattoo he did for me...it's a dragon that wraps around my side. I just love it! 





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Thursday, July 3, 2014

~ Guest: Erika Reed - Triple Her Chances ~



Sage Monroe is tired of being stepped on and feeling unloved by the people she cares most about in life. To make matters worse, her ex is trying to extort money from her with a video she knows nothing about. When the attractive Duffey cousins come to her rescue, she’s grateful, especially if they can help fix her problems before word gets back to her father.

Tye, Kash, and Tristan Duffey have been smitten over the sexy little cocktail waitress since the moment they laid eyes on the beautiful blonde. When they discover Sage’s apartment had been robbed and her ex is blackmailing their woman, the three will stop at nothing to ensure her safety. The three cousins take control of the situation and vow to eliminate the problem that is causing chaos in her life.

Can their love for one another overcome life’s obstacles that threaten to jeopardize their future?


Story Excerpt

“Shh…it’s okay, doll. We’re here for you. Everything will be okay,” Tye’s voice whispered against her ear as she lay in his arms. “You know who may have done this?” he asked.

Sage lifted her head. “I have a feeling it was my ex boyfriend Steve Pritchard. He has been harassing me for money lately, threatening me he would get it one way or another.”

“You hear that, Sergeant Matthews?” Tye said as she buried her face in his shoulder.

“Yes, sir. I will note that in the file and try and track down Mr. Pritchard for questioning. Until then I will be in touch if I have any further questions for Ms. Monroe.”

She could hear Kash and Tristan moving around her room putting the last of her belongings into bags. He then picked her up and carried her from the apartment. Sage heard Officer Matthews tell them that he would be in touch with her and for her not to worry.

Tye carried her to his truck and slid in with her. Her tears began to dry up and she noticed that Kash was driving them to a house she had never been to before.

Sage wiped her remaining tears. “Where are we?” she said as she watched a beautiful house come into view as he pulled into a dirt driveway that led to a two-story home. 

“You’ll be staying with us for a while until you get back on your feet and we figure out how to find that sleaze ball ex of yours,” Tye said.

Sage sat up in his arms as the truck stopped. “What? I can’t stay with you. Take me back to my place. I just need to get a locksmith out there to fix my lock. I will be fine by myself.”

The passenger door opened and Tristan took her from Tye’s arms and continued to carry her to the house. “Don’t worry about the locksmith. We already took care of that for you. We all think it’s best if you stay here with us for the time being until we get to the bottom of this.” Tristan was always sweet to her.

He then sat her on her feet of the entryway of the house. Tye disabled the security system that was along the wall next to the front door. 

“This is a beautiful house. I heard that Tye recently moved in with you. So you all live here now?”

Kash sat the large trash bag of her belongings down on the floor. “Yes, we all live here in the house. We recently finished remodeling. It needed a lot of help when we found it. But Tristan and I knew it was the house we had always wanted to own.” 

“What do you say we all go talk in the living room?” Tye asked as he walked ahead of her.

Sage followed him into the living room.

“Come sit down, Sage. You must be exhausted after your trip and then finding out about your apartment that way.” Tye said as he patted the seat next to him on the couch.

Sage was mentally and physically exhausted. She wanted nothing more than to go upstairs and sleep for days. But she knew she had to figure out where she was going to live because she didn’t feel safe at her apartment any longer even when she got a new lock. That’s why she wanted to save for a house in a family-oriented neighborhood where she could raise a family one day with a loving husband that would care for her and love her until the day she died.

“Honey, are you certain it was your ex, Steve? It almost looks like someone had a key, but tried to make it look like they forced their way inside,” Tristan insinuated.

Tye turned to face her as she sat on the couch. “Didn’t you get the key back from that asshole when you kicked his ass out?”

“Yes. He took all his stuff and left the key on the counter.”

Kash walked into the room at that moment. “That doesn’t mean shit. That asshole could have made another key at one time or another.” Kash sat in the recliner across from where Tye and Tristan sat with her. “What the hell did you see in that piece of shit, anyways, doll?”

Good question. “I ask myself that question every day.”

Tye grabbed her hand. “Why didn’t you answer my messages?”

That’s when she remembered her phone. “I turned it off last night after Steve had kept bugging me all day with constant text and calls. I guess I forgot to turn it back on. I didn’t want him to ruin my trip with Addison.”

Tye then said, “Has that asshole been bothering you still?”

Sage was embarrassed. She didn’t want to tell them about the sex video Steve was holding over her head, but she was in over her head now and she needed their help. She still feared that the video existed and he would use it to extort money from her because he knew her parents were rich.

“Steve has been trying to blackmail me since we broke up for money that he thinks I can get him for a video he supposedly has of the two of us having sex.” Sage looked down at her hands, feeling a bit embarrassed. “He says if I don’t give him five thousand dollars he will take it to my father, knowing it will jeopardize his position as senator.

Kash then said, “Is there really a video out there or could he be bluffing just to get money from you and your parents?”

Sage was exhausted. “I don’t know for sure. I have never seen it. But he knows who my father is and he is planning on using it to his advantage. He has always been a shady bastard and I don’t know what I ever saw in him.”

Tye nodded. “Don’t worry, sugar. We’ll help you.”


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