~ Guest: Kali Argent - 3013: ALTERED ~

3013: ALTERED 

The ninth book in this best selling sci-fi/futuristic series!

Commander Ivy Dalton doesn’t believe in luck or chance. Everything in her life—her career, her ship, the respect of her peers—she’s worked hard to earn. When she and her crew are attacked during an exploration mission, sending her ship crashing onto an unidentified planet, her only concern is finding a way to contact the Alliance. She never expected a single, tiny incident in the infinite reaches of space to challenge all she thought she knew about fate, destiny, and…love. 

For thousands of years, King Kai Blackthorn has ruled over the people of his planet with selflessness and compassion, never taking anything for himself. Recently, however, he’s grown weary, malcontent, and the loneliness that has plagued him for centuries has become too pronounced to ignore. Then all that changes with the unexpected arrival of one sassy blonde with luscious curves and a dangerously sharp tongue. 

Caught in the midst of intolerance and corruption, two strangers from different worlds struggle to find a way to coexist. Kai can’t abandon his people, and Ivy can’t imagine a life grounded in one place. But fate will not be ignored. Decisions must be made, compromises that will change the course of their lives. For no matter which destination they choose, the journey will leave them forever altered. 

EXCERPT:

Her hostile stance eased marginally, and her mouth softened at the corners. “That,” she said, pointed to the translator, “is a language converter? It’ll allow me to understand you?”

Pleased, Kai smiled as he offered her the blinking strip of gold-plated metal. At the same time, he carefully removed his own translator, paused, and slid it back onto his earlobe, demonstrating to her how to wear it.

After a long, tense hesitation, Ivy shuffled around the chair with her arm outstretched, allowing Kai to drop the translator into her waiting hand. She didn’t affix it immediately, but studied the device for several long seconds.

“It looks like a staple,” she murmured. “Are you sure it works?”

Kai couldn’t help but laugh as he nodded his affirmation.

“Okay, here goes nothing.” Brushing a stray lock of golden hair back from face, she slid the translator onto her lobe, just as he’d shown her. “Well,” she said after a moment, “say something.”

“What would you have me say, my lady?”

“Oh.” Her full lips parted with a silent gasp, and her emerald eyes sparkled like the waters of the ocean. “Say something else.”

“Welcome, Commander Ivy Dalton, to the high city of Sommervail.”

“Incredible,” she whispered. 

A sharp pain rippled through his chest and down his abdomen, stealing his breath with its intensity. His legs began to shake, his pulse raced dangerously, and heat swept over his skin. All at once, he felt dizzy, unsteady on his feet, and shadows blotted the edges of his vision.

“Kai—it’s Kai, right?” Ivy took a single step closer. “Uh, are you okay?”

“Merely the excitement of the day.” He needed to get away from her before he did something humiliating, like faint at her feet. “I apologize.” Gripping the doorframe when the dizziness threatened to overwhelm him, he squeezed until his knuckles turned white. “We’ll speak again in the morning.”

“Wait, I have questions. You can’t just keep me here like this.”

“The captain will answer any inquiries you may have.” As if summoned, Tira appeared at his side. “Tira, I’ll leave it to your discretion.” He tried to smile, but by the females’ worried expressions, he imagined he’d failed miserably. “Until our next meeting.” He lowered his head slightly toward Ivy. “Rest well, my lady.”

Retreating, he staggered down the stairs, leaning heavily on the railing, and stumbled through the corridors until he reached his chambers. It troubled him to leave Ivy after such a short meeting, but with his stomach churning and his head pounding, he could barely undress before collapsing onto his bed. 

The silky gray sheets felt cool against his overheated skin, and the soft mattress cradled his aching body. Every muscle, tendon, and joint pained him. Even his hair follicles hurt. Stars above, he didn’t know what had come over him, but a part of him felt death would be preferable to such suffering.

Illness didn’t plague the inhabitants of Xenthian. Not once in over four thousand years had Kai experienced even something as minor as a sniffle. In the back of his mind, the part still fighting against what he already knew, he wondered if Ivy had somehow bewitched him. Burying his face into the pillow with a groan, he dismissed the notion as quickly as it came.

He was lying to himself, had been from the moment he’d walked into Ivy’s room. Upon seeing her, he’d felt the pull, the unshakeable desire to be near her. His entire being swayed toward the beauty, something inside him shifting to make room for this magnificent being he’d never even considered existed. 

Kai wanted her. Not for a day, a night, or even a hundred years. He wanted eternity with her. His heart had recognized what his mind had not, and his body had taken it upon itself to respond in the ways of their kind. 

Soulmate.

Being in Ivy’s presence had been like standing in the eye of a great storm, both beautiful and terrifying in the way she consumed him.

Soulmate.

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~ Guest: Into the Flames Anthology ~

INTO THE FLAMES

Firefighter Multi-Author Boxed Set Anthology

Release Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Seven smoldering stories. One great price. Only .99!

Firefighters. The word ignites bold images of heroes in dust covered helmets and ash stained turnouts who defy the odds and press on in the presence of danger.

Men and Women of Valor. A dedicated brotherhood of first responders whose honor, strength, and courage overcome obstacles to save lives.

Into The Flames. Eight NYT, USA Today, bestselling and award-winning authors offer romantic suspense, contemporary, historical, and paranormal tales of tough, iconic heroes who risk it all for their communities—but at the end of the day, seek the tender embrace of the one they love.

Pre-order Into the Flames:
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JOIN US ON THE ADVENTURE…

Rescue Me by N.J. Walters

When firefighter Frank Ellis rescues an old flame from a burning building, sparks ignite. He’ll do anything to protect her, even if it means she discovers he’s a mythical phoenix.

Flashpoint by Desiree Holt

...When everything explodes

Where There's Smoke by Cindy Spencer Pape

Firefighting in the 1920's is dangerous business, but so is falling in love.

FireBrew by Liz Crowe

Fate throws them together. But the horrific memory of a fiery disaster could tear them apart. 

Hook Me Up by Adele Downs

Firemen don't free cats from trees anymore—until a pretty schoolteacher gets trapped on a limb with her kitten and the county's hottest firefighter comes to their rescue.

Slow Burner by Sam Cheever

A love that burns slowly burns longest, creating the greatest heat.

Uncontrolled Burn: A RISEN Team Novel by Nina Pierce

A woman forced to live a life she didn’t choose. A vampire bound by honor to protect humans. A deadly game of revenge that threatens both their lives …

Book Spotlight

Rescue Me by N.J. Walters - When firefighter Frank Ellis rescues an old flame from a burning building, sparks ignite. He’ll do anything to protect her, even if it means she discovers he’s a mythical phoenix.

Frank Ellis - Hero’s secret fantasy:

Frank’s fantasy is simple. He wants one particular women—Martha Benson. She was out of his life for years until he recently rescued her from a burning building. Seeing Martha again has rekindled old feelings. He want a chance at a life with her. But how can he be with her when the sexual attraction sparking between us puts her life at risk?

Martha Benson - What about the hero drives her crazy?

Frank left her without a word years ago when they were both still teenagers. He’s still as secretive as ever, still as handsome and sexy as ever, and she can’t stay angry with him. How can she when he just rescued her from a burning building?

Why firefighters? 

Firefighters do what most of us would never be able to do—run into a burning building to rescue a stranger.

Find N.J. Walters at:

WEBSITE | BLOG | FACEBOOK AUTHOR PAGE | TWITTER | GOODREADS | AMAZON

About The Authors:

N.J. Walters is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author who’s always been a voracious reader, and now she spends her days writing novels of her own. Vampires, werewolves, dragons, time-travelers, seductive handymen, and next-door neighbors with smoldering good looks—all vie for her attention. It’s a tough life, but someone’s got to live it.

Desiree Holt is an award-winning author known the world over as The Oldest Living Erotic Romance Author. She has won an EPIC E-Book Award, the Holt Medallion and many other awards. She has been featured on CBS Sunday Morning and in The Village Voice, The Daily Beast, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, The London Daily Mail and numerous other national and international publications.

Cindy Spencer Pape is an award-winning author of 19 novels and more than 40 shorter works. She lives in southeast Michigan. When not hard at work writing she can be found dressing up for steampunk parties and Renaissance fairs, or with her nose buried in a book.

Liz Crowe is an Amazon best-selling author of 27 books, mom of three, Realtor, beer blogger, brewery marketing expert, and sports fan. She is a Kentucky native and graduate of the University of Louisville currently living in Ann Arbor. She has decades of experience in sales and fund raising, plus an eight-year stint as a three-continent, ex-pat trailing spouse. Her early forays into the publishing world led to a groundbreaking fiction hybrid, “Unconventional Romance. Worth the Risk,” which has gained thousands of fans and followers interested less in the “HEA” and more in the “WHA” (“What Happens After?”). 

Adele Downs is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than 20 romance titles, including those written under another pen name, and is a former journalist with hundreds of articles to her credit. When not writing in her home office in rural Pennsylvania, she can be found reading a book on the nearest beach or riding in her convertible. 

Sam Cheever is a USA Today Bestselling author who writes romantic paranormal/fantasy and mystery/suspense, creating stories that celebrate the joy of love in all its forms. Known for writing great characters, snappy dialogue, and unique and exhilarating stories, Sam is the award-winning author of 50+ books and has been writing for over a decade under several noms de plume.

Nina Pierce is a USA Today Bestselling author who spends her days at the keyboard writing stories of fated loves and soul mates, blissfully creating chaos for her characters by throwing in a villain or two, a little murder and a whole lot of mayhem as they struggle toward their happy-ever-afters. When she’s not writing, Nina enjoys spending time with her soul mate of nearly 40 years, their three adult children, one love-sick son-in-law and two precious grandsons.

Pre-order INTO THE FLAMES Now!
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~ Guest: Kali Argent - Shadow Soldier ~

I'm so excited to present the first book in the Revenant Series -- SHADOW SOLDIER! Happy Reading!

Available now from:

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When the Purge nearly wiped out humanity and gave rise to the Allied Races Coalition, Roux Jennings refused to become a paranormal’s new pet. Forced into hiding, she remains constantly on the move, never staying in one place for too long. It’s a harsh existence filled with too many dangers and not enough food, but at least she’s free.

Coalition Captain Deke Collins is tasked with protecting the citizens of Trinity Grove—both human and paranormal alike. Presenting the mask of a loyal and dutiful soldier isn’t always easy, but it’s a necessary evil. If anyone discovers he’s the leader of a group of rebels secretly known as the Revenant, he won’t live to see the next sunrise. 

When circumstances force him into the path of a beautiful and tenacious female, he’s immediately drawn to the human. Dragging Roux into his world may put her in more danger than even he realizes, but it’s a risk he must take to protect her.

In a reality where paranormals rule and humans are nearly extinct, lines are drawn, sides are chosen, and a war for freedom rages in secret.

CHAPTER ONE TEASER

Nevah shrugged and dropped the subject. “After we get supplies, we really need to move on.”

“That’s the plan.” Roux glanced sideways at her comrade. “We never stay in one place for too long, and we don’t stick around after a raid.”

Nevah shook her head. “That’s not what I mean. We need to get as far away from this place as possible, away from Trinity Grove.”

“What’s in Trinity Grove? Other than a horde of vampires, that is.”

“Not just vampires, but all kinds of Gemini.”

The Gemini. That was what everyone called them—the monsters with two faces, with dual natures. Vampires, werewolves, shapeshifters, and whatever other strange supernatural creatures prowled the night. Normally, most looked no different than her or any other human, but their dark essence always lurked just beneath the surface. Roux didn’t know where the term had originated, but she definitely found it fitting.

After the Purge, the Gemini had been all too eager to come out of hiding. With so few humans left to oppose them, they’d quickly risen to power, forming the Allied Races Coalition. By the end of the year, they’d divided North America into territories—cities and surrounding areas governed by prominent paranormal families—and nothing had been the same since. 

Trinity Grove resided in vampire-controlled territory, but beyond that, Roux didn’t know much about the town or the family that ruled it. 

“I still don’t get it,” she admitted. “Gemini are everywhere, what makes this place so different?”

“They call it the Devil’s Den,” Nevah answered after a long pause, her voice quieter, more subdued. “It’s controlled by the Diavolos family. Very old, very powerful, and very deadly. The rumor is their roots go all the way back to the amphitheaters of Rome.”

“Like gladiators?” Roux snorted and shook her head. “Are you serious?”

Nevah didn’t return her smile. “Exactly like gladiators. They’re not strangers to carnage, Roux, and they won’t be merciful if they catch us.”

As far as Roux could tell, they sounded no different than any other member of the Coalition, but she didn’t argue. The trees had started to thin, their branches trimmed back from the two-lane highway as houses and businesses appeared on the side of the road. Just ahead, past a two-story farmhouse with blue siding and white shutters, the grocer stood illuminated by a pair of yellow streetlamps. 

Bright paint decorated the glowing, storefront windows in a summer mural of colorful flowers and a corny depiction of a smiling sun. A shingled awning stretched over a wooden porch that wrapped around the sides of the small store, and by all appearances, the grocer had once been someone’s home. 

As usual, Cade went first, motioning for everyone to stay put until he’d crossed the highway and ducked into the shadows at the corner of the building. Denny followed next, moving quicker than his fragile appearance would suggest he could. Once Greg and Brody had joined them, Nevah stepped out of the tree line, her gaze cautious and alert as she started across the street.

Roux crouched in the bushes, sliding her utility knife from its sheath as she listened for Nevah’s footsteps to fade. The humidity of the day paired with the falling temperatures of the night produced a hazy fog that covered the ground and swirled around her feet. A light mist had begun to fall, and while it wouldn’t wash away the weeks of dirt and grime, Roux closed her eyes, allowing herself a moment to enjoy the cool water against her skin. 

The crunch of gravel reached her ears, meaning Nevah had reached the grocer’s parking lot. Rising from her position, Roux kept low, checking her surroundings once again before stepping around the neatly trimmed hedge. She’d just stepped across the white line on the edge of the asphalt when a scream pierced the air.

Denny.

A lump formed in her throat as her heart pounded a hard rhythm against her sternum. Torn between helping her group and saving her own ass, Roux stood frozen, one foot still planted on the street. She’d never proclaimed to be brave, and it wasn’t as though she could do anything useful. More than likely, she’d only end up dead, or worse…captured. Better to be dead than what awaited her in the city.

Against her better judgment and all of her instincts, Roux released the breath she’d been holding and darted across the highway. Instead of a direct route to the grocer, however, she veered to the left, slipping into the darkness cast along the side of the farmhouse. Another cry rose up on the wind, this one deeper, more guttural, and Roux instantly recognized it as Cade’s.

A line of peach trees separated the residential home from the small store, its low-hanging branches creating a perfect swath of shadows. Gathering her courage, Roux pushed away from the side of the house and hurried across the sodden grass to the nearest tree, just as the rain began to fall in earnest. With her back pressed against the wide trunk, she paused, fighting to control her rapid breathing. 

“Your plan is what, exactly?” a low, masculine voice asked from somewhere in the darkness to her right. “Rescue your friends armed with a single knife and determination?”

BUY LINKS:

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~ Guest: Elodie Parkes - Rescuing Cade ~

Elodie Parkes: I was asked to write a story for an erotic romance anthology. Almost immediately I had my character, Cade, form in my head and a love story for him, but then I was informed the anthology would be BDSM. I thought I’d have trouble with the genre, but the editor of the proposed anthology said, ‘give it a go’. I began to adapt the love story in my mind for the character Cade, thinking I’d have to consider the plot for a short time, but only a few days later the anthology was cancelled. By then Cade was so real to me and a story with a sprinkle of the genre, BDSM, was firmly in my mind, so I wrote it.

The story is much longer than I originally thought it might be, especially when it was going to be for an anthology, and the romance conflict arc is now about both Cade and my heroine, Marissa. As usual, I fell in love with my characters and couldn’t stop writing until they reached their HEA.

I did a little research for this story because I didn’t know much about the type of club Jack, Cade’s friend, takes him to. Once I no longer needed to place emphasis on dominance and submission, the story unfolded easily, interweaving with the original love story I had for Cade when he first began whispering in my ear.

With scorching hot love scenes, tender moments, a dash of angst and a splash of humor this is Cade’s journey to love again.

I hope readers enjoy it.

Cade’s trying to get over a broken heart when his friend Jack takes him off to a nightclub, named only, The Club. Although at first Cade is shocked by the place he meets Marissa. It’s not long before he and Marissa get together, but under the pressure of expectations from, The Club, and Marissa’s fear of commitment, they’re both running in opposite directions.

Gorgeous Cade has touched Marissa’s heart in ways she doesn’t want to admit. Lovely Marissa has lifted Cade’s sadness and opened his heart to love again. The trouble is — someone has to give a little. Who’s it going to be?

Excerpt

Cade took his time drinking his coffee on Saturday morning. He wanted to go out to the street market and call into the coffee shop to buy fresh grounds, but he knew the reminder of being with Marissa there the weekend before would hurt. He drove there and parked in the big flat lot at one end of the High Street. Thoughts of Marissa teased him as he sat for a moment in his car and assessed his feelings. She’d touched his heart and he knew it. He sighed and thrust away the idea of calling into her place on the journey home from the market. She doesn’t want me. 

He turned up the collar of his leather jacket against the cool breeze, and after checking he’d locked his car, since his thoughts drifted time and again to Marissa’s lovely face, he stalked off up the street. He avoided the market stalls he and Marissa had stopped at the week before, making straight for the farmers’ market section, where he bought two different kinds of apples and a couple of large potatoes he knew could be put in the oven and baked without him having to hassle around. 

When he entered the coffee shop he kept his face turned from the café end and ordered his usual Italian roast grounds, but then, longing to recall Marissa as she gazed at him over the table they shared the Saturday before, he glanced around—and there she was. 

She stared at him from a table in the middle of the café. 

Cade blinked to make sure he wasn’t just imagining she was there. He paid for his coffee order, and drawn to Marissa’s table as if by some invisible thread, Cade quickly walked over there. 

“Marissa, it’s so good to see you. I hoped you’d call me. May I sit with you?” He croaked out the words as his heart flipped about and the urge to pick her up, crush her to his body, and devastate her with a kiss scared him with its ferocity. 

She didn’t speak, only nodded an assent at him. 

Cade dragged out a chair and dropped his shopping to the floor. He sat down close to Marissa, but still facing her. 

She turned her coffee cup around and around in the saucer. Her gaze riveted on the coffee in there. 

She wasn’t wearing makeup. Her face was pale and her cloud of brown hair wisped around her heart-shaped face. 

Cade smiled noticing for the first time a faded splatter of freckles across her nose. The tremble in her fingers, didn’t escape Cade’s hungry observation. She’s nervous. Is that because she likes me or thinks I’ll make a scene and wishes I’d leave? He reached out and clasped her fingers in his. 

Her coffee cup clattered a little in the saucer.

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About Elodie:

Elodie Parkes is a British author writing romance, erotic, contemporary, and often with a twist of mystery, paranormal, fantasy, or suspense. Her books are always steamy. Her tag is, Cool stories: Hot love scenes.

Elodie lives in Canterbury with her two dogs. She works in an antique shop by day and writes at night, loving the cloak of silent darkness that descends on the rural countryside around her home.

Elodie writes for, Evernight Siren Hot Ink Press Eternal Press Secret Cravings Ra Jones Anthologies Side Street Cookie Publishing. She has also released titles as an individual indie author.

Find Elodie online: 

Blog Facebook FB Twitter Tsu Google + G+ Pinterest YouTube Amazon USA Amazon UK Smashwords Barnes and Noble ARe ManicReaders Tumblr Kobo

~ Guest: Kali Argent - New Cover Reveal - 3013: MENDED! ~

COMING SOON!

COMING JANUARY 6, 2015!

A scroll with exceptional abilities, Camille Brighton lived a life of wealth and privilege until tragedy changed everything. The gifts that had once made her special are suddenly a curse to be feared, and she finds herself a captive in her own home with a world of possibilities just beyond her reach. When the demons of her past return, though, forcing her to flee to the outer rim of Alliance territory, she soon realizes freedom isn’t exactly the adventure she’d thought it would be.

Running from his own past on Helix, Tariq Navarro has spent the last nine years as a mechanical engineer on Beta Station 4. Life has proven the only person he can depend on is himself, and he’s built an impenetrable wall around his heart, wearing suspicion and distrust like a second skin. Then a slip of a woman carrying the scent of fresh rain and lavender turns his world upside down with just a smile. He’s never wanted anything or anyone more, and he’ll go to the ends of the universe to keep Cami safe. With danger lurking at every turn, he may just be forced to prove it—even if that means protecting the angel from himself.

Betrayal left them broken. Can love see them mended?

~ 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:

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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

ARGENT.KALI@GMAIL.COM

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.

ON THE WEB

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | BLOG

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~ 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! 

Contact Dusty Rhoads on:

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Email: dustyrhoads1981@gmail.com

~ Guest: Jess Buffett - Cowboy's Chocolate Roses ~

jessbuffett@gmail.com

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Cowboy’s Chocolate Roses

Silver Stone Ranch 1

Available now from:

AMAZON | ARe | B&N

Having just signed a deal that will set his ranch up for life, Joshua Jell is totally unprepared for the changes that are headed his way. After a night spent with the woman of his dreams, josh is devastated when he wakes up alone. Packing his bags, he heads for home, nursing a broken heart.

Brianna Evans has spent the last two years struggling to take back control of her life after a horrific trauma. When events lead her to Josh, she finally believes there is a chance for her to be happy again. 

When a ghost from her past threatens to take everything away from her, Bri must trust that her cowboy will stop at nothing to keep her safe.

STORY EXCERPT

Waking up slowly, Bri groaned. Her mind was fuzzy, her head throbbed, and it felt like something had died in her mouth. God, why did she let Charlotte talk her into doing stupid things? And it would be Charlotte's fault. Her sister constantly pushed Bri out of her comfort zone. And drinking alcohol didn't agree with Bri. Why did I drink so much?

Because Charlotte had everything Bri wanted and might never have a chance to get. A pang of guilt wormed its way into Bri's thoughts. She loved Charlotte and wished her every happiness, but Bri would admit to having a streak of envy running through her heart, too. The perfect sister with the fairy tale wedding, a dream Bri gave up—no, she wouldn't think about it. Not now.

Blinking open her eyes, she winced when a sharp jab shot through her skull at the light, then instantly stiffened—though not from the pain. She didn't belong here. The warm beige walls and the dark, heavy furniture were nothing like those in her room. Oh, God. Where am I?

Bri shifted, trying to get a better look at her surroundings, but a strong arm around her waist pinned her to the mattress. A soft sheet draped over her, kissing her skin and Bri realized she wore nothing. Heat along her back, and a firm, naked erection pressing into her had a prickle of nervous awareness skittering down her spine. Her pulse beat wildly and she struggled with the implications. Oh, God. What had she been thinking? She could have gotten hurt…again. No! She wouldn't think about that.

She muttered, "Geez, Bri. What have you done, now?"

Cupping a hand over her mouth, afraid she may have woken the man behind her, Bri sighed in relief when the stranger grunted but remained asleep.

Pulling herself gently away, making sure not to rouse him, she slipped out of the bed. Her knees shaking, she inhaled deeply and exhaled slowly until the wobbly feeling decreased. Turning to inspect her bed partner she gave herself credit, he had handsome features. Thick blond hair, slightly longer on top to frame his eyes, and a chiselled, angular bone structure, the term masculine work of art came to mind. With the sheet draped to just below his hip, his hard, muscular body seemed huge against the white linens. Oh, wow. His erection peeked out from under the heavy cotton, long and thick, and almost begged for attention. Dampness pooled between her legs, surprising Bri. She'd never had such an instant reaction to a man before.

It scared her.

The sudden need to run became too hard to ignore. She trembled at the thought of him waking up and things turning ugly. She couldn't let it happen again. Bri fought for breath, sudden fear suffocating her. She hated being afraid. Hated feeling weak and helpless.

Grabbing her dress, she quickly pulled it on, before picking up her underwear, clutch, and shoes. Tiptoeing to the door, she glanced back, taking one last look at the beautiful man lying in the bed. Regret pierced her heart for a guy she didn't even remember, but so did an overwhelming sense of terror.

"One of these days, you're going to stop being so afraid," she said to herself.

Slipping on her shoes and stuffing the rest inside her clutch, she exited the room, then raced home as fast as she could. Home was good. Home was safe.

*****

Stretching his arms up above his head, Josh let them fall back by his side. Patting the space beside him, he opened his eyes and turned his head. Empty. He lay there dumbfounded for a moment. Josh thought he and Bri had really hit it off, but it seemed she didn't feel the same. Judging by the coolness of the sheets, he guessed she'd left some time ago.

Josh gazed at the ceiling wondering what had gone wrong. He had sensed something, knew it had her more cautious than most, but then she opened up a little. He assumed she had become more comfortable with him. Christ, he had spoken more to her than he had any other woman in his life.

"Nice one, Josh. She took you for a ride." He should have known better, but it had been nice.

No woman ever wanted to talk to him that much, most just tried to get into bed with him. They all assumed good looks and a cowboy hat equaled not a lot upstairs; he was just a cowboy after all. Bri clearly thought the same as those women, and that hurt. Josh actually thought they'd made a connection, one that could maybe go somewhere. He felt like a fool.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jess Buffett was born and raised in New South Wales, Australia. She is a mum of two, married to her high school sweetheart.

Jess is a hopeless romantic who is a huge fan of M/M and M/F romance with a happy ending—anything with hunky men in all their glory, whether they be Shifters, Vampires, Cowboys, or the boy next door. 

A caffeine addict who shamefully can’t make a decent cup of coffee to save her life, Jess believes in soul mates, happily ever afters, and in love at first sight, but that sometimes people need a second or a third for the brain to catch up.