Category Archives: Promo

PROMO SPOTLIGHT & REVIEW ~ The Cedar Tree Series by FREYA BARKER

SPOTLIGHT & REVIEW

Cedar Tree series
Author ~ Freya Barker


Book #1 ~ Slim To None

 
Synopsis:

Since moving to beautiful Cedar Tree, Colorado, Emma Young, mother of one adult daughter, has worked from home doing some online bookkeeping and baking for her best friend’s diner to supplement her disability pension. Life has been pretty damn good. That is, until she received a strange phone call that started an alarming chain of events.

 

Investigator Gus Flemming was hot on the trail of a bail skip with organized crime connections, when he ended up in Cedar Tree. Here the focus of his investigation landed squarely on the gently rounded shoulders of the vivacious red-headed Emma, whose physical limitations have done nothing to dampen her zest for life. 

 

When it becomes clear that Emma is at risk, Gus doesn’t hesitate to step in and protect her. Call it a job with some very hot benefits…..

 

PURCHASE LINKS

 

Amazon US:
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iTunes:
Kobo:

Goodreads Link:

EXCERPT: 

A few hours and half a dozen breaks later, the living room, dining area, and the kitchen were back to normal, and
Emma was about to fall over from hunger.

“Hey, you hungry?” She called out, not quite sure where Gus went off to.

“Gettin’ there.” Was the response coming from the vicinity of the other end of the hall.

“Gonna make us some sandwiches and a quick soup, that okay?”

“Sounds good to me.” Seeing Gus sticking his head around the door of her bedroom had her drawing in a sharp breath. Her bedroom. Fuck. He’s in her bedroom?

“Erm…need any help in there?” She quickly made her way over to see how deep his investigative powers went, hoping to God her little bedside buddies were still in their protective pouches and tucked away nicely.

“Nope. Finding everything just fine, thanks.”

Oh no. She could hear it. She couldn’t see it yet, but she could hear the contained laughter in his voice. Cocky bastard has had found something to smile about. Deep breathing to fight off the blasted perimenopausal flush that was creeping up her chest again. She made her way around the doorway to find him sitting on the bed with the contents of all her drawers spread out around him.

“What are you doing?” She managed to get out.

Eyes sparkling with amusement, the bastard, he looked at her with the edges of his mouth twitching, like he was fighting a losing battle not to burst out laughing. He’d better win that battle, or he might find a cane up his arse!

“Picked up everything that was tossed from the drawers onto the floor and put it on your bed. I was just trying to sort through it to see if I could put some stuff back for ya.”

“Uh huh… and, eh… were you successful?” She ground out, now trying to hold back on her own grin that was trying to make its way out.

“Sorta…” Gus said, bringing his hands up from beside his legs, where they seemed to be resting on the bedspread, but instead, were apparently covering her best little buddies…

“I rescued these from the floor. Is there any particular spot you would like these?” And with that, Gus let go, bending over laughing,  while clutching her pink rabbit and her sparkly g-spot stimulator to his stomach, which, in turn, made Emma loose it.

“I’m really sorry, again.” Gus said over lunch. “I probably should’ve just stayed out of your bedroom, but I wanted to get a head start there, so we’d have more time for the office.””Don’t sweat it. Other than it being a tad embarrassing to have you find
my mechanical companions..…” Emma blushed, “…it is what it is. I’m too old to really give a shit, so there. If you have any lasting issues, well… Then I guess, that’ll be your problem.” She looked at him from under her eyebrows, giving him a little smartass smile.

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Book #2 ~ Hundred To One

 

Synopsis:

Arlene Bowers is as tough as nails. She has survived a less than perfect marriage, managing to move past it to run her own diner. Her abrasive exterior has always been a way for her to hide behind the darkness and pain that she has endured, but a recent, violent attack and several disturbing phone calls have that tight hold on her emotions wavering.

Seb Griffin showed up in Cedar Tree eight months ago and was hired on at Arlene’s Diner as a cook. An ex-con with secrets of his own, Seb walks a fine line. Since he began working at the diner, he’s developed feelings for his fierce, stubborn boss, and the need to keep his distance from her, to protect her, is a daily struggle.

When it appears that Arlene’s past has come back, rearing its ugly head while her defenses are low, Seb steps up and claims responsibility for Arlene, praying that he can keep her safe from whatever is coming her way.

 

**Due to content of a sexually explicit nature, this book is recommended for a mature audience only.**

 

PURCHASE LINKS

 

Amazon US:
Amazon UK:
Amazon CA:
Amazon AUS:

B&N:
Kobo:

Goodreads Link:

Picture

 

EXCERPT:

“You were nice.” He says with an eyebrow raised.
“So? I can be nice. Just cause I haven’t had a reason to before doesn’t mean I don’t know how.” And I immediately busy myself wiping down the counters… again.
“Uh huh…” Comes from right behind me before I feel arms sliding around my waist.
“I like you nice.” He mumbles with his face buried in my neck, which has my body on high alert and aching.
“Don’t get used to it.” I manage, but I can’t resist leaning back a little, feeling his hard chest behind me. One big hand slides up under my work shirt and his rough fingers skim my stomach. My instant reaction is to suck that baby right in, but he catches me.
“So soft. It’s nice.”
Just the feeling of a man’s hands on me; this man’s hands on me, causes me to moan. It’s been so long since I have felt anything other than anger from a man’s hand. There is no anger in Seb’s touch, just a teasing gentleness that makes my wild side flare up and take notice.
When I feel his callused fingertips brush the underside of my breast, then slip under my bra, my breath hitches in anticipation. Damn I want his hands on me, his mouth on me. My nipples are so tight, they are almost painful, and when his touch finally finds them I can’t hold back anymore.

“Seb…” Reaching behind me I pull his head down and attack his mouth. My tongue eagerly finding entrance and tasting his. Hands tangling in his hair. I can feel his resistance waning and a greedy whimper escapes me.
He breaks the kiss, looks at me with eyes that are almost as black as midnight. Turns and lifts me up on the counter, initiating himself between my legs. Pulling at my knees so that my wet and aching center is lined up with what is a mouthwatering erection. Instinctively I wrap my legs around him, pressing him closer to my core. His hands now both under my shirt and working at releasing my bra. He shoves it out of the way along with my shirt and latches on to my breast while plumping the other with his hand. And I have lost all reason.
“So fucking tasty,” is all I can hear before he switches to the other side.
Eager to touch him, my hands trace his arms, shoulders and with my fingers I start pulling up his shirt, needing to touch his skin.

The phone rings.

“Fuck!” Seb swears as he leans his head to my sternum, all movements stilled by the insistent ringing. He pulls my shirt down and half in a daze I reach over to grab the receiver off the hook.

“A- … Arlene’s Diner.” I manage to get out.

“You think you can get away with that? You fucking whore! I’ll teach you…”

 

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AGAINST ME Ecover

 Book #3 ~ Against Me

Synopsis:

Patience has always been Caleb Whitetail’s strength. Quiet and unassuming is what you see with the GFI investigator, but the blood boils hot right under the surface. He kept his distance for years only to see the woman who has held his attention almost lose her life not just once, but twice. He is done standing in the shadows.
Katie Acker, once a tough and athletic security specialist now struggles daily to walk. The closest to family she has are her colleagues at GFI. Especially the man who saved her life and always has her back. So when she unwittingly becomes the focus of a Mexican cartel, it’s no big surprise she finds him right by her side.
With the combustive change in their deepening bond, Katie and Caleb do not see the oncoming danger – until it surrounds them.

PURCHASE LINKS

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Amazon UK:
Amazon CA:
Amazon AU:

Add to Goodreads:

Teaser 6

Excerpts

The sound of voices gets louder as I make my way through the now dark guesthouse to the bedroom. Leaning against the doorway into the room, I can just catch the last few sentences exchanged between the women sitting on the big bed. It’s obvious from the tearstained faces that some emotional stuff has gone down and I feel guilt eating at my insides. But then I hear Katie say that me walking out earlier meant I must have regretted what happened between us, I have to set her straight. She can’t be further from the truth and it’s time she knows it.
The moment her head swings around and her eyes meet mine, everything else disappears. I barely notice Emma leaving. In a few steps I reach the bed, lean in and pick Katie up.
“Whoa!” she calls out, scrambling to hold onto my neck. “Whatcha doing?”
“You in my bed means I can’t think, and I’m having a hard enough time thinking around you. We need to set some things straight.” I tell her, trying not to get lost in the feel of her soft body against mine, her subtle scent teasing me and her restless fingers playing against the short bristles in my neck. My dick, however, is a goner, and there is no way to hide it when I sit down on the couch with Katie in my lap.
“Stop squirming, you’re making it worse,”
When she throws me an irritated look I’m glad to see the fire back in her eyes. There she is.
“Okay, enough of the manhandling, Caleb,” Katie bats at my hands as I shift her around so she faces me. The old tank top and shorts she wears as PJs aren’t doing much to cover her and I can’t help the tortured groan that slips from me. Fucking hell, this is gonna be torture, with her nipples poking through the threadbare material. Right in my face.
“What the hell is this? I honestly don’t know whether I’m coming or going with you.”
“Shhhhh, don’t get upset,” I try to settle her before the tears I hear wobbling in her voice start flowing. “I just needed a minute.”
Cupping her face between my hands, I tilt her head so I can look her in the eye. “This I have wanted and waited to do for so long, I need to make sure I don’t miss a thing.”
Her eyes are big and a little uncertain and her lips are perfectly parted when I brush my nose along hers, breathing in the soft pants of her breath. A light brush of my mouth over hers, barely skimming, and then I taste the length of her full bottom lip with my tongue before sucking its plumpness in my mouth. Fucking heaven. Her taste is heaven and I need more. Katie’s fingers rubbing against my scalp is all the encouragement I need and I finally let go of my hunger for her and take her mouth. Jesus. Delicious wet heat meets me when my tongue plunges between her lips. Someone groans… and in the now furious tangle of lips and tongues I can’t tell anymore. I want inside her. In one twist and without my mouth ever leaving hers, I have her below me on the couch, and I’m grinding my painfully throbbing cock between her legs. It isn’t until she wrenches her lips from mine and murmurs, “Caleb…” that I realize I am fucking humping her like some deranged rutting animal. I shoot back upright and move to sit on the coffee table, my head in my hands.
“Fuck!”
Why? Why does she make me lose all control when control has always come so easy?
“Are you gonna walk out of here again?” The amused tone of Katie’s voice tells me she may be a little more attuned to the struggle I’m waging than she was before. “Because, that would seriously mess with my self-esteem, you know; getting rejected based on my abilities for giving head and kissing?”
I throw my head back and laugh. “Oh sweetheart, you couldn’t be further from the truth if you tried.”
~

Teaser 4

 ~

“Morning, better sit yourselves down ’cause Emma’s cooked for an orphanage,” Gus says as he holds the door open for us.
“Shut your mouth, Gus, or you’re not gonna get any,” Emma pipes up from the kitchen, “and when I say ‘any’… I mean any!”
The faux-shocked expression on Gus’ face inadvertently makes me chuckle, “Show me the way to the food, but I’m warning you – if I get any fatter, I’ll need a sumo wrestler to wheel me around.”
The dead silence should’ve been an indicator my joke doesn’t go over too well.
“I need a word, Katie,” is my only warning, before my chair gets pulled around and pushed back outside. Okay then. Next thing I know Caleb is in my face with his eyebrows scrunched up.
“Please don’t do that.”
“What did I do?” I know, I just don’t want to admit it.
“Tell me honestly,” he asks, “is who you are so wrapped up in what you look like that you think it is all anyone sees? Cause I’m not buying it.”
I shake my head, because it’s not. It really isn’t, but insecurities pop up and spill out all over the place – unattractive as they may be.
“Aside from the fact that ‘fat’ is not an adjective that should ever be used in a description of you, it’s a load of crap. You want it straight? You have gained weight, rounded out and softened up. You have flesh my fingers want to sink in and my body wants to rest on. But I’d have taken you any way, thin, firm, soft, cause the only place you can find ugly is on the inside.”
I nod. Shit, what else am I supposed to do? It’s beautiful, what he says, I don’t want to take anything away from that.
“Let’s go eat.”

 



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Book #4 ~ Clean Lines

Synopsis:

When her surly teenage son moves back to live with ER physician Naomi Waters unexpectedly, her motherly instincts go on high alert. Nothing could’ve prepared her for the wave of trouble that follows him back into her life.

Sheriff Joe Morris blew his chance with Naomi a few years back when he’d moved faster than his own past allowed. At the first opportunity to get his foot back in the door, he takes it and risks everything to keep her and her son safe.

But working for a future isn’t easy when you’re fighting to survive your past.


PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon UK
Amazon USA

Add To Goodreads

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Excerpt

On the short drive home, with Joe riding my bumper, I still have way too much time to think. And what I’m thinking is that I’ve gone and lost my mind. Who says shit like that? I behaved like some two-bit sex operator and sounded no better. If I didn’t need both hands on the steering wheel, I’d have my face covered right now; I’m that embarrassed. Emotional. Too fucking emotional. It’s either flat or deep with me and it’s exhausting. Why I have to be this emotionally unbalanced every time around Joe, I have no idea, but I’m sure the man’s had enough of crazy women for a lifetime.

When I park the car, I turn off the engine and drop my head on the wheel. Maybe this is not such a good idea. I probably should’ve stayed with Katie and the baby and not just gone running off with Joe at the first opportunity. Well, not exactly the first opportunity but still. It seems inappropriate. Doesn’t it?

The door beside me opening startles me, but even more so does the feel of Joe’s firm hands pulling me down from my seat.

“Don’t. Don’t sit there and talk yourself out of something we both know is going to happen,” he says talking to the top of my head because I am studying the tips of my toes.

“Naomi?” He leans in and I can feel the heat of his words penetrate my skin as he speaks. “I need you. I need to feel your fingers tangle in my hair, your tongue in my mouth, your skin under my hands and your pussy squeezing my cock. I need it all, honey.”

Slowly raising my eyes, I find his burning with lust and something more. Need? I trace my fingers over his lips and along his jaw before whispering, “Let’s go.”

 

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BLP REVIEW ~ Rebecca

 

Where the fuck do I start this review???

Because wow. Just. Fucking. WOW.

The Cedar Tree series which I have just read back to back is outstanding. Freya Barker is just crazy ass talented and I’m totally fucking overexcited with my discovery and wanting the world to know, this means in my usual fashion the profanity when excited goes into overdrive, leaving me swearing like a sailor with tourettes, however as her writing is so flawless and overwhelmingly real – whilst also being hot as fuck (see I told you, profanity and excitement go hand in hand!) – I also want to wax lyrical and eloquent.

So where does that leave me?

A motherfucker of a poem?

Possibly.

Because I want to shout, put it on billboards, skywrite it and advertise far and wide, share with the world albeit in a colourful fashion that Freya Barker has a gift, writes real, heart-warming and emotional, funny, hot books with characters whose banter, friendships and stories will have you rooting for them, getting serious feels for them, purchasing new batteries for toys because oh boy did I mention HOT as FUCK, and all while effortlessly throwing in suspense, intrigue, fabulous funny sarcasm and humour. She dares to go where few authors will risk, writing older characters with health issues, disabilities, the reality and the fantasy seamlessly intertwined and breathtakingly beautiful. I remember when I finished my first Kristen Ashley immediately downloading the rest of the series, devouring them one after the other while the family took care of themselves because I was on a mission, déjà vu for Freya Barker. I have no clue why she is not more well-known or why this series, especially Slim to None, is not a huge bestseller because for me they were a special read, the author an awesome discovery and I had a real ‘oh my fucking god’ moment when I finished the fourth book Clean Lines because, apart from KA, not many have written a series where I literally could not choose my favourite, where every single book boyfriend was ‘The One’ and every single heroine I wanted to be or wanted as a bestie, all abso-fucking-lutely fabulous, the fantasy escape we read romance for but so bloody real. And yeah I’m gushing, I’m also stalking and pimping her crazy talented ass out, much as my blog partner-in-crime has done for some time, because she needs that one tiny little touch of luck to put these books where they belong…

……………………………………

So let’s start with Slim to None, with my gorgeous Gus and sassy Emma whose start is the amazingly steamy “porn” phone call (I say “porn” firmly tongue in cheek by the way, check out the one star “porm” review!!) which personally I thought was hilarious, hot and worked for me!

 

“Sure thing. We’ve only known each other for what? Three, four days?” Forcing out a chuckle, she finished. “Just fun and games, right?” She could feel his growl behind her. “Fuck no, woman.” He bit out. “You know it, and I know it. We’ll sort it, but now is not the time. You’re exhausted and I have a team to set up. So, when I say ‘sort it’, I mean I’ll have myself up in your face, and under your skin and into your body so deep, you won’t be able to doubt my intentions.

 

Oh Lordy I’m having a flush just reading that quote! Gus is all man, alpha male written with a vulnerability, warmth and humour that you will fall into a puddle at his feet, worshipping at the dream that is Gus. Emma is so strong and sassy, refusing to let life get her down, choosing to live and enjoy even with health limitations, without giving spoilers let’s just say the thoughtfulness shown by Gus for making Emma comfortable while still being sexually adventurous was all kinds of hot I wasn’t expecting. The chemistry between these two when it does explode is so well done that it’s seamless, the physical and emotional so well intertwined with sassy humour and banter that you almost miss, through the sheer panty melting hot scenes, the friendship and emotional attachment that is developing between them. This introduction to the Cedar Tree series is totally addictive because while being captivated by Gus and Emma, their intimacy and relationship and the friendships of the secondary cast all merges together to create a world I didn’t want to end.

……………………………………

Hundred to One is the second outing, and features Arlene and Seb. A very different couple yet again Ms Barker managed to engage me with 100% attention, devouring this story.

 

“There is nothing to miss – there is too much to take in. Do you realize how unique it is to find what we have? With our backgrounds, both of our fucked up histories? We were a hundred to one odds. Who could have imagined that you and I would hit it off, let alone fall in love. I don’t want perfection… you don’t want perfection, we both want real and this is as real as it gets. Wrinkles, blemishes, nose hair and hang-ups… All of it.”

 

Arlene is just bloody fabulous, I adored her, strong willed, independent and fiercely loyal she was a joy to read, her altercations and interactions had me laughing out loud, Emma and Arlene could be me and my bestie talking! Seb was a bit of a sleeper for me, Gus and Caleb I was an immediate take me now! As Hundred to One progressed I was yeah I’ll take Seb as well. Dibs. They are a perfect match, I didn’t see it at first but as their pasts unfold and their relationship picks up speed then for me it was a real life fairytale. I don’t want to give spoilers but the ring is perfection and I’m fanning my face thinking of cold storage!

……………………………………

Against Me was a knockout. I never cry, my blog partner will be in tears, wailing like a demented woman and I’ll be all “yeah it was emotional” but to get a tear or lump in the throat from me is epic!

 

“Amazing how one moment you realise it isn’t so much how people treat you that holds the power, but how you interpret and react to the treatment.”

At the end of Caleb and Katie’s journey I was a mess. MOTHERFUCKING CAPS LOCK FULL ON MESS! It has so much emotion packed in and is written so flawlessly that it is not a story, it is a journey, a hard, messy, emotional journey that shreds you while having such beauty it’s outstanding. Yet again Ms Barker gives us a couple different in feel from the previous two, Caleb is a patient man, silently in the shadows waiting for his time with Katie. Katie is dealing with huge physical and emotional issues recovering after an incident so she’s feeling vulnerable and has a loss of confidence. Watching these two come together and the development of the relationship was a joy, Caleb is my favourite type of book boyfriend – throw in the suspense, intrigue, feels, plus a secondary cast who interweave throughout again and you have a recipe that is mouth-watering and delivers. Doesn’t harm that again it’s as hot as fuck with almost a bit of kink thrown in, grab those batteries because OH LA LA that boy, panties not needed! My favourite so far and a reread for many years to come.

……………………………………

And so to Clean Lines – Joe and Naomi’s book. The development of the storyline as a whole in Clean Lines is fabulous, SO much going on! And a total shocker of a surprise I never saw coming. Joe and Naomi have been dancing round each other due to misunderstandings for a while, Joe doesn’t help his own cause a lot of the time (typical man!) and Naomi, to be fair, worries too much and won’t take a chance. Their dance is very different again to the three previous couples but just as engaging, a determined to fix his mistake Sheriff and a determined to do right for herself and her child Mom, romance way down her list of priorities leads to some interesting misunderstandings and complications.

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The overwhelming factor for me that makes all of these such an enjoyable read is the amazing banter between all the characters, primary and secondary. The affection, humour and love shines through, the teasing, flirting, arguing, dirty sexy talk and insults flung around through these books make them a pleasure to experience. Like every family, whether blood or choice, they will frustrate and exasperate you – you will be rooting for them while screaming at them!

Kindle and the indie writing world gave me Kristen Ashley and Madeline Sheehan, I now add Freya Barker to the “I don’t need the cover or blurb because it’s an automatic one click on the strength of the author alone” list. There is no better compliment I can give to Ms Barker other than Thank You, you have created characters that will remain in my heart and memories for a long time to come, an outstanding series.

And oh yeah, dibs on Clint. Just saying!!!!!

~ R xx



 About the Author

 Freya Barker

Freya Barker has always loved being creative. From an early age on she danced and sang, doodled, created, cooked, baked, quilted and crafted. Her latest creative outlets were influenced by an ever-present love for reading. First through blogging, then cover art and design, and finally writing.

Born and raised in the Netherlands, she packed her two toddlers, and eight suitcases filled with toys to move to Canada. No stranger to new beginnings, she thrives on them.
With the kids grown and out in the world, Freya is at the ‘prime’ of her life. The body might be a bit ramshackle, but the spirit is high and as adventurous as ever. Something you may see reflected here and there in some of her heroines…. none of who will likely be wilting flowers.

Freya craved reading about ‘real’ people, those who are perhaps less than perfect, but just as deserving of romance, hot monkey sex and some thrills and chills in their lives – So she decided to write about them.

 

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SPOTLIGHT ~ Tempered Steel series by Maggie Adams

SPOTLIGHT

Tempered Steel series
by
Maggie Adams

Whistlin' Dixie (Tempered Steel, #1)


A man on a mission….
Mackenzie Coalson was determined to rebuild his hometown after a devastating flood left it in ruins. He has no time for a relationship and all the romantic junk that goes with it. He has a vandal to catch and no sweet smelling bundle of femininity is going to sway him.

A woman protecting her family…..
Dixie Harris charged into the county sheriff’s office with a sassy sway and a smart mouth, eager to give the sheriff, and anyone else, a piece of her mind. When she locks horns with the devil himself, in the form of Mac Coalson, she quickly learns he has a temper to rival hers, even if he’s the living epitome of her sexual fantasies.

When the two unite to catch a potential murderer, it’s in everyone’s best interest to keep it, “business only”. But that’s hard to do when their combined attraction is volatile enough to burn down the town.

AMAZON.COM


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Sam Coalson, ex-Navy Seal, has returned to Grafton for the wedding of his brother. After being run out of town fifteen years ago for a crime he didn’t commit, he’s determined to claim what is rightfully his and take on anyone crazy enough to try and stop him.

Angel Devereaux is smart, sexy and definitely on Sam’s blacklist. After siding with Sam’s enemy fifteen years ago, Angel can’t help but wonder what if….what if Sam had never left? What if he could forgive her now? She had her reasons, but he won’t listen. So enough with words, sometimes action is exactly what’s called for

AMAZON.COM

 


Something's Gotta Give (Tempered Steel #3)
Chance Coalson loves women. And they love him. Young or old, no woman is immune to his charm.
Except one.
Georgia Haines is the only female volunteer firefighter in Grafton. She’s had a crush on Chance Coalson since he offered her his handkerchief at her momma’s funeral. But she’s smart enough to know that it takes a special woman to tame a charmer like Chance, and there’s nothing particularly special about her.
When fire breaks out at the Coalson’s construction business and Chance is trapped inside, Georgia braves the flames to save him, only to discover her “crush” has morphed into love. And she’s helpless to hide her desire.
Chance awakens to find an angel breathing life into his lungs with a kiss. The woman he wanted more than any other was the one who paid the “Casanova of the County” no mind.
So how does a man with a bad reputation convince a shy firefighter that he’s worth taking a chance on love?
By fighting fire with fire…..

AMAZON.COM


BLP Thoughts – Tracy

Whistlin’ Dixie
Tempered Steel #1

I was offered the chance to read and review Whistlin’ Dixie and after reading the blurb knew this was gonna be a good read!

Mac and Dixie’s story was frustrating at times – personally, it took me a little time to warm to our leading man but finally he won me round. Pretty much from when we meet him he seemed arrogant and close minded when it came to what was going on but when we found out about the trouble that is being waged on his family business I kinda understood why he came across as he did.

Dixie was fiery and determined, having had to look out for her brother and herself for some time but she was also sweet and tried to see the good in people.

The snark and back biting between this pair was entertaining and had me laughing out loud at points and the attraction was more than obvious even if it did take them a while to admit that they felt something for each other. When they do finally get things sorted, they are smokin’ hot (quite literally!!)

We are introduced to Mac’s brothers and parents and you just know that the other Coalson’s are gonna have a story to tell!!!

An enjoyable read and a very good start to a series from a new author. I’m looking forward to more from Maggie Adams.

 
 
 Leather and Lace
Tempered Steel #2


I was looking forward to Sam and Angel’s story as soon as I put down Whistlin’ Dixie… I was intrigued as to why Sam was determined to stay so cold and angry with the gal who seemed to really love him.

They were a really great read. The story that unfolded around this pair wasn’t quite what I was expecting but it made so much sense once the secrets were exposed!!

A romantic story that was at times hot & sexy it was also packed full of action & suspense. The storyline that started in book 1 continues in Leather & Lace, but we are still at a loss as to who is out to cause the family so much worry and trouble!!

I love that the Coalson family are all part of each others stories and how they are prepared to stand up for each other regardless of what’s going on.

Can’t wait for more in this series!!!

Something’s Gotta Give
Tempered Steel #3

After meeting Chance in the previous books in the series I couldn’t wait to read about the Coalson romeo….

Chance and Georgia were fab… This is definitely my favourite book of the 3 so far!!

Georgia has felt alone and abandoned for most of her life and her trust and belief in people to stay with her is understandably lacking…. Even though she has loved Chance for years she can’t believe he would ever be interested in her.
Following an accident, she finds herself laid up and in need of help which comes in an unexpected package!!

We knew that Chance was a bit of a lad but following the fire-raising incident earlier in the series it was quickly apparent that our romeo was turning over a new leaf! When he finds out that Georgia needs help he instantly steps up – even though he has no real idea of what he’s set himself up for… but at the same time, he is determined to use this time to make the gal he loves believe in him, see a different side to him and give him a chance (pardon the pun!!)

A shortage of confidence and the meddling of a couple of green eyed monsters has the possible relationship floundering before our couple even have a chance to see if it can go anywhere.

More intrigue follows the troubles that the Coalsons have been encountering but I got the feeling that we might find out who is behind the vandalism and problems soon.

Maggie Adams has a great series on her hands and I’m excited to see what the next installment brings.

~ I received an ARC of all of these books in exchange for honest reviews – I have to say that I love the series so much that I have now purchased the 3 books in the series so far!! ~

 


About the authorMaggie  Adams

I live in Southern Illinois with my high school sweetheart and two terrific kids.  I’ve always loved books and dreamed of one day making writing my career.  Life happens while dreaming but I never gave up.  I believe humor can be found in the most awkward situations as my family can attest, and happily ever after is work but true love is worth it. 

In addition to contemporary romance, I also write paranormal romance, erotic romance, and women’s fiction.

Links:
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PROMO ~ One Year Anniversary ~ Vanquish (Triumph #1) by

  Vanquish Triumph #1 CoverThe one year anniversary of Vanquish (Triumph Series #1) is on Wednesday, July 8
and to celebrate the book will be on sale for $0.99 for more than a week. 

 
The sale will run Wednesday, July 8 – Sunday, July 19!!

J.S. is running a signed paperback giveaway (US Only).

 

********************


GIVEAWAY


Link to Rafflecopter


Vanquish Synopsis: 

Jared Roman has lived his entire life feeling unworthy, unwanted and unloved. He’s lived a life of abuse, addiction and abandonment. Zhoe Dawson comes from a different world than him. She comes from money and social status. But with that comes the dictatorship her father runs. All Zhoe’s ever wanted is to break free of his rules, and to feel loved.When they learn Jared is the reason for Zhoe’s pain, her loss, and heartbreak he tries to walk away. But, Zhoe offers him the one thing he’ll never be able to leave behind – her heart. Can Zhoe’s love save him from his past?

Can she help him conquer his fears and doubts?

 

teaser3 copy


 

Vanquish Buy Links:

SALE BLITZ ~ Run Series by Kandice Michelle Young

 

¸.•*´¨)¸.•*¨ ) SALE 99c ¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
Run To You
by
Kandice Michelle Young
 


I moved to New York for a fresh start.  I did not move here to fall for a man like Sebastian.
Sebastian Black came into my life like a storm in the peak of the night…dark, raging, all-consuming, and guaranteed to leave destruction in his wake. From the moment our eyes met, he had a hold on me. I wanted, craved, and needed him like nothing I had ever desired before.
The problem was he needed total submission. From the moment he handed me the contract, I knew what he was proposing would destroy me. What I had not planned was his ability to make me crave destruction. I would lose myself in him. Sebastian knew how to take me over the edge, and before I even knew it, I wanted to go freefalling.
It was evident that my past had the ability to destroy us. What I had not calculated was the power of his to do the same. My dark, brooding, impeccably sexual, alpha-male had his own crosses to bear. I was not sure I was strong enough to handle them, or the woman who helped chain him there.

 

 

 

 


 


 


 

¸.•*´¨)¸.•*¨)  SALE $1.99 ¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
Run From You
by
Kandice Michelle Young
 


 

Sebastian called me his princess, but he was far from my white knight. He was my drug. One hit and I was addicted to him.I ran from him to save my life. I kept running to regain my sanity. Kyle would help me with that. His warmth and familiarity were just what I needed to get back on track. Beautiful in his own right, Kyle was everything I once knew to be good about the world. Kyle was perfect for me, he always had been.Except he wasn’t Sebastian, he could never be. The horrors of my past pulled me away from him. The nightmares of my present would bring us back together. Confused though I was, I knew Sebastian was the only choice. The damage done
was great, our love greater. Surviving each other would take everything we had, but it was the only option.

Every mistake we had made would collapse on top of us, burying us alive in a mountain of anger and guilt. Neither of us could have prepared for what was coming. The only way out was through. The question became, would we be strong enough to make it through together or would our secrets tear us apart once more?


 


 


 


 

Kandice is… …a serial lover of all things pink, self-proclaimed chocoholic, home-schooling mother, and wannabe yogi.
Her debut erotica novel, Run to You, the first in the series Run, is coming soon. Kandi’s love of storytelling can be traced back to her fourth grade year, when a history lesson on Native Americans became too unimaginative for her liking.  She took it upon herself to liven things up by creating a story that was based on half-truths about a self-named Indian Princess. Kandice is in fact of Native American heritage (her great-grandmother was a full-blooded Cherokee) and in her own mind a princess, so you can see where her inspiration came from.  Her story was a huge hit with friends, and an author was born. Kandice was born and raised in rural Arkansas, where she currently lives with her husband and three children. Though, if you ask her she’ll confirm that her soul is lost somewhere on the west coast waiting for the day that her body can rejoin it. 



 

 

 

 


Hosted by
 
 


BOOK BLITZ ~ The Blue Hearts Series by Kennedy Kelly


GENRE: Erotic Romance
 

THE RIGHT KIND OF LOVE 

(Blue Hearts Series Book One)


SYNOPSIS:

Damaged, but not broken, Sydney Summers picks up her life and moves halfway across the country. 

After a tragic event that has rocked her to the core, she is determined not to let it taint her future. Her entire world is turned on its axis when her new roommate isn’t the person she thought they would be. Making the best of the situation, like she always does, she trudges forward and learns that, although life may not seem perfect all the time, it can end up being pretty damn good.

Damien Blue, a tattoo artist by day and a musician by night, is a man-whore. With a revolving bedroom door, he knows no limits when it comes to women. Then he meets his game-changer. Everything he knew before is completely and utterly turned upside-down when he can’t keep the one woman he thinks is too good for him from his mind or his heart.

When fate rears its ugly head again, will they be able to come together as one, surviving their hot and cold relationship? Will Sydney be able to let go of her past and fight for their future? 

Together, will they be able to find The Right Kind of Love?


Right Kind of Love


 


 

Chapter One

One Month Later
 
With one broken rib, a healed black eye, and a busted lip, I drove into Vegas. What I saw had my belly full of butterflies and a huge smile on my face. I’d finally made my way from Detroit, Michigan to the glamour and glitz of Las Vegas, Nevada. I needed a new start to my life after what I’d endured, which I tried not to think about, because I wasn’t going to let that vile bastard rule my life. Yes, I was now damaged, but I wasn’t broken. A fresh start away from the memories and those familiar things was what was needed in my life. Plus, I didn’t want to be anywhere near the bastard.
 
I had thrown fifty small pieces of folded up paper, each with a name of a city and state, into a hat.
 
What I drew out of the hat was good ol’ Vegas. I couldn’t believe I actually was making the move. But a clean break and change was exactly what was needed.
 
I was driving down Tropicana. I had my dog, Zeus, at my side, and a smile on my face. Life was definitely better. I was taking in the beautiful huge Palms Hotel. It was all lit up and inviting with signs flashing and the big Playboy sign on the side. I couldn’t wait to visit. What twenty-two-year-old wouldn’t want to live a life in Vegas? I was determined not to fall into a habit of partying and going to the casinos, because let’s face it, that would mean we clearly would have a problem, Houston. But I would at least go out and have some fun, do a little gambling, and hit some clubs. It was my goal to hit all of the buffets. My stomach rumbled at the thought.
 
I wanted to stop off and visit all of the hotels. However, I had to make my way to my new apartment. I was running a little late. I had emailed my new roommate to let her know I was going to be there in the afternoon, but the sun was setting as it was evening now. My belly started to rumble again. I was starving. Once I was settled, I would have to find something to eat.
 
Luckily, I had landed a job before I moved. Until I established my clientele, I wouldn’t be able to afford to live on my own, though. Cosmetologists could make a killing, but it was only if you were in the right place at the right time. Bangs Salon and Spa was very reputable and had a steady stream of customers from what I was told. When I’d
looked up their website, and then had done the phone interview, I was more than impressed.
 
My living arrangements left me a little nervous. I’d gone through an apartment finder for a roommate. From the pictures, the place looked amazing, but I still didn’t know how I felt about living with a stranger. Since I was fairly outgoing, I knew she and I would have no trouble making fast friends.
 
As I pulled through the gates of the complex, I noticed the beautiful Spanish-tiled roofs on the stucco buildings, ginormous palm trees, and a pool that looked like it belonged on its own oasis. I couldn’t wait to throw on my bikini and get some much-needed sun. It was a far cry from Detroit.
I parked my car in front of building B, got out of my black Jeep Liberty, and cracked the window. I didn’t want my little guy to die from the heat. “Zeus, I’ll be right back, buddy, I’m gonna go meet our new roommate.” I gave him a kiss on the nose and then shut the door. The apartment placement said small dogs were fine, but I still had trepidations about my roommate actually liking Zeus. He was such a good dog, and I couldn’t imagine going anywhere without him. I’d gotten him a few years ago after my mom had died. My stepdad worked nights so Zeus kept me company when I was home alone. And then when I had moved in with Bee, my best friend, she was all about Zeus.
 
I grabbed my phone out of the pocket of my black skinny jeans and pulled up the information about the apartment. Yes, I was at the right place—Ovation Apartments building B. Now I just needed to find apartment 215, which I assumed was on the second floor. I made my trek from the parking lot, crossing over to the sidewalk where I
noticed beautiful green grass and shrubberies with flowers lining the walkways. This place was pretty damn nice. It would be my own personal paradise. I made my way up the stairs and found 215.
 
Time to meet my new roomie.
 
I lifted my hand and let out three distinct knocks. The door swung open to a woman scantily dressed with platinum blond hair, caked on makeup, and long legs that stretched far outside of her very short mini dress.
 
“Who the fuck are you?” the woman asked me. She couldn’t be over twenty-five and had quite the attitude, but if she could dish it, I could dish it right back. My mother never taught me to sit in the back of the bus. She taught me to stand up for who I am.
 
“Well, who the fuck I am is Sydney Summers. I’m looking for Dana Blue. Is that ‘who the fuck’ you are?” I pumped out my hip and popped my leg for extra measure.
 
She looked down at me because, let’s face it, I was a shorty at five foot. “I think you must have the wrong place.” And with that, she slammed the door in my face.
 
What a complete psycho bitch.
 
Taking my phone out of my pocket again, I looked at the information and then  confirmed it by looking at the door once again. Yes, I was in the right spot.
 
Fuck her. So I was going to be living with a psycho bitch.
 
Gathering my wits, I brought my hand to the door and knocked once again, but this time I didn’t get in three knocks.
 
The door swung open and this time, a guy answered. I looked up at him and my breath hitched. He was gorgeous. He was well over a foot taller than me with hair that was longer on the top and shorter on the sides, giving him the look of a toned-down version of a Mohawk. He had brown hair and brown almost black eyes, the color of the blackest espresso I’d ever seen. From the looks of him, he seemed like he was a regular at the gym, and have mercy from beyond, from his black short sleeved shirt peeked out all sorts of tattoos. He was breathtaking. Not the typical kind of guy I would go for, but there was just something about him that screamed raw sex appeal. I was slightly shocked that he didn’t immediately intimidate me after what I’d been through. But there was something about him that spoke to me. I knew he was safe. I’m usually a good judge of character when I first meet people. Usually. Wes had proven me wrong. But fresh start, new beginning, right?
 
Clearing my throat, I gave it another try. “Hi, I’m looking for Dana Blue.”
 
He took his long fingers and scratched at his completely messy hair. “Well, I’m Damien Blue and you must be Syd?” He looked puzzled.
 
I stuck out my manicured hand. “Hi. Yeah, I’m Sydney Summers.”
 
“Not to be blunt here, but I wasn’t expecting a fucking female. I thought you were a dude?”
 
“Since we’re being honest here, I wasn’t expecting a fucking male.” Take that. Oh, my God. Clearly, this apartment search had royally fucked up in a huge way. I was expecting a female roommate and he was expecting a male. I would have to call them and get to the bottom of this and to see if they could pair me up with someone else.
 
He opened the door further and the psycho bitch from earlier stepped out and ran into me, shoving me aside.
 
She didn’t say sorry or excuse me. She wrapped her arms around his neck and jammed her tongue down his throat. “Thanks for today, Damien. Call me when you want to hook up again.” And she turned toward me scowling, dismissing me as she walked on her red sky-high heels down the steps. I was a huge shoe connoisseur, but I would never wear anything that high and lethally dangerous for my health. I would fall and break my flippin’ back.
 
Damien resumed looking at me. “So now that that little distraction is out of the way, let’s resume our conversation.”
 
Little distraction? More like a psycho on stilts.
 
“So where were we? To be clear, the name is Damien not Dana. My last name is Blue, and I was expecting a dude named Syd.”
 
“Well, clearly, they got their wires crossed and made a mistake. I’m indeed a Sydney, as in a female. Let’s move past this. I’ll just leave and go find a hotel to stay at until the Apartment Search people can get this situation sorted.” Hopefully, they would be able to find me something else.
“Nonsense. Let’s try this again.” He stuck out his large hand to me. “For the third time, the name is Damien. I live here and I’m expecting a new roommate. I had thought I was going to have a dude as a roommate, but we can make this work.” His lips upturned and he gave me a megawatt smile, showing off his very white and perfect teeth.
 
Holy fucking shit.
 
How was I ever going to live with a guy, not to mention one that was so freaking attractive? I really was rather done with the male species. Let’s be real here—after what I had been through, I didn’t really trust them. The one person I had trusted almost half my life had turned on me, which is how I ended up in a vulnerable situation and
facing a roommate that wasn’t a female.
 
What the hell?
 
I stuck my hand out once again. “Sydney Summers. It’s a pleasure and I appreciate you letting me stay. Although, once I get settled, I’ll see about finding another roommate.”
 
“We can make this work as long as you don’t cock block me.” He was serious as a heart attack. What kind of mess have I gotten myself into?
 
“Well, if you are referring to cock blocking as in you and me, then you need to get your facts straight. I don’t date or do anything else with men, for that matter.”
 
“Whatever you say, sweets.” Sweets?
 
“The name is Sydney not Sweets.” I deadpanned.
 
“Well, sweets, are you going to stand there all day or are you going to come in and see your new home?” He waved a hand welcoming me into his, or shall I say our, apartment.
 
I walked in, but then I turned back to him and met his deep black eyes. “The name is Sydney.” I gritted through my teeth.
 
Holy hell, this place was nice and actually immaculate. For a guy, he ran a pretty tight ship when it came to tidiness. He would probably be less than thrilled with me because I was such a slob. But so be it. He wouldn’t be in my room to see what it looked like, and I would do my best to keep our shared living quarters clean.
 
I took it all in. Beige walls surrounded me. There was a one-butt kitchen, as my aunt Theresa would call it, off to the right with black speckled granite countertops, cherry cabinets, and stainless appliances. It had a breakfast bar with chrome and red padded bar stools pulled up to it. Next to the kitchen was a kitchen table set with four chairs.
Connected to the eating area was a huge family room. On the wall, facing the entrance into the apartment there was a fireplace and above it had to have been at least a sixty-inch flat screen TV. Placed in front of the TV, there was a black leather sectional couch and a slate tiled coffee table. To the right was another door, which I could only imagine
led to the deck that I saw at the front of the apartment when I was walking in.
 
“Well, I see you’re checking it all out. Do you want me to show you your room, and then I can help you get all of your things brought up here?” He turned on the TV and classical musical blasted through the room.
 
I gave him a funny look because he didn’t fit the classical music type. “You like classical music?”
 
He winked at me. “I like all sorts of music. I’m actually lead guitarist in a band. I sing as well, but the guitar is what my world is built around. You should come hear us play sometime. We play at some of the different hotels on the strip and bars off the strip, too.”
 
“Cool, I’ll think about it.” And I would. I loved music. I was a sucker for it. Plus, I could only imagine what his voice sounded like. He had such a rich, deep baritone voice. Lead guitarist and vocals. Damn, that sounded hot. But I wasn’t going to let myself get carried away with that thought. Men were on the list of no-go for me.
 
He led me out of the family room and down a hall.
 
We passed a built-in desk where he had a very nice desktop computer set-up. We came to what appeared to be a long closet door. “Right here’s the laundry.” He swung open the doors and showed me a front loader washer and dryer.
 
“Nice machines. You’re all about the good shit when it comes to appliances in this place.”
 
“Thanks. I don’t mess around when it comes to furnishing the house. I work my ass off to have the things I do and having a roommate now will help me stay on top of the bills.” He shut the doors.
 
We walked further down the hall and approached two doors. He gestured to his left. “This is my room on the left and here is your room on the right. Don’t ever come into my room unless I tell you it’s okay.” He opened the door for me. “Oh, and in front of you is the guest bath.”
 
“Geez, Damien, chill the hell out. I told you I wasn’t going to cock block you.” I walked into my room to get away from the player. I’m surprised his dick wasn’t giving the tour. He was hot and that was about all he had working for him in my book. I was a bit intimidated by men at this point, after what I’d been through, but I had to remember to be strong and to not let my past control my future. I wouldn’t allow myself to live in fear. Of fear of what happened with Wes.
 
I took in the room. It was fairly large and actually had a king-sized bed. Wow, I wasn’t expecting such a luxury. “Um, a king-sized bed?”
“Yeah. That’s what my brother had and he didn’t take it with him.” He winked. What is up with this guy? Did he have a twitch or something? 
 
“I guess I’ll be going to Target after I get everything settled. I only brought bedding for a double.” I sighed. I was so tired from all of the driving; that was the last thing I wanted to do along with unpacking all of the shit and lugging it up a flight of stairs.
 
“It’s cool. I’m off tonight, so I’ll take you there so you can get what you need.” He walked further into my room and opened a door.
 
“No, that won’t be necessary. I’ll drive myself.” I looked through the door and saw a toilet with a shower tub. “Nice, I didn’t realize I had my own bathroom.”
 
“Yeah. Both of the rooms have their own baths. They’re both set up like masters.” He waggled his eyebrows at me. I could only imagine what went on in his master. My momma, who passed away not many years ago, had better be watching over me, because I honestly didn’t know what the hell I was getting myself into with having a male
roommate.
 
“That’s awesome, Damien. This place is really nice. I appreciate you letting me stay until I can work something else out. But I’m gonna give it to you straight. Don’t ever come into my room without knocking first—ever.” I hoped like hell that the door had a lock on it because if it didn’t, I would be for sure picking one up while we were at Target.
 
“Point taken. I get it. You don’t want me in your room, and I sure as hell don’t want you in mine.” He gestured toward another door. “Let me show you the kick-ass closet.”
 
I walked over to where he was standing with the door opened and walked in. Damn! It was freaking huge! Like, bigger than my closet back at home. It was lined with lots of shelves and racks for me to hang clothes. At the bottom, there were cubbies for me to put shoes in. I had definitely hit the jackpot. If only I were living with another female. At that time, my stomach betrayed me and grumbled really loud.
 
Damien turned to me and looked down at my stomach. “You hungry?”
 
I bit my bottom lip and then released it. My damn stomach had to choose that moment to growl. How embarrassing. “Yeah, I haven’t eaten all day.”
 
“Well, let’s get all of your shit up here, and then we can go get something to eat and hit Target. Sound good?”
 
“Sure, I suppose that worked. Shit, I need to get Zeus. Poor baby probably needed to do his business.” I started walking out the door, and he placed his hand on my arm to stop me. I pulled my arm away and looked back over my shoulder. “What?” I hadn’t been touched by a man since that night, and it had taken me completely off guard.
 
“Who the hell is Zeus?” He crossed his arms across his chest.
“Zeus is my dog.” I smiled just thinking about my little guy. At least he was here with me.
 
“You brought a fucking dog? I honestly don’t know if that’s going to work. There won’t be enough room in here for all of us.” He gave me a questioning look.
 
“Chill, Damien. It will be fine, come meet him. I assure you that you’ll think he’s cool.” If he didn’t let me keep my dog, the deal was off. I would have to find another place and fucking fast.
 
“All right, lead the way to your car so I can meet this Zeus.”

 





CAPTIVATED BY YOUR LOVE 

(Blue Hearts Series Book Two)


SYNOPSIS:


She’s fire and he’s Ice, both demanding and both used to getting their way. Put them together and there is one hell of a storm. Two souls drawn together by an unexplainable force, their chemistry is off the charts it sizzles. Some say what they do best is fight, but they know what they do best isn’t in the fight, but the makeup sex that comes after.

Jealousy and impulsive decisions find Abbee now answering to Mrs. Blue. Can the newlyweds find a way to tame themselves and each other long enough to truly allow love to flourish? Or will a jealous ex and pride be too much to handle? Will they be able to stop fighting with each other long enough to fight for each other? Follow along as Abbee Burkhart and Justice Blue find out why everyone says love is worth fighting for.


 



Chapter One
Abbee
 
The sun streamed into my bedroom through my window and it felt like it was beating down on my nose and bronzing my skin. I would never get used to the Vegas heat. But this morning it felt so much hotter than just the sun. It was like the thermostat was turned up to 100 degrees. I was roasting hot but in a good way. I felt a thin sheen of sweat layered on the back of my neck and across my upper brow. Then I suddenly realized it was because I wasn’t alone. So not alone.
 
The thing is I didn’t remember being out with my boyfriend Jensen last night so I should be alone. At least one would think. Keeping my eyes screwed shut, I tried to take in my surroundings. The room smelled of sex. Dirty, just like I liked it. But, again, my memory of Jensen from last night just didn’t exist.
 
I didn’t want to open my eyes for the fear in my belly of what I might find. Oddly, I felt a presence in my front and at my back. Which was a little alarming. Then it hit me. The air rushed out of me and my breathing grew unsteady. Fuck. Fuckity fuck fuck. The memories flooded my head like a typhoon. Shit. What had I done? I was a bad girl and knew exactly what I had done. Although it was very wrong of me to cheat on Jensen, I couldn’t deny that I didn’t like it. Guilt overcame me and my lips turned down into a frown. Damn, I couldn’t be trusted.
 
It was time to quit playing hide-and-seek with myself. I needed to open my eyes and face what would lay ahead of me. It wouldn’t be a surprise that I would like what I would find. Memories of hot bodies and sweat clad skin sliding against each other filled my mind. I had never had a threesome before. Until last night, that is. I had always wanted to, it was actually written in bold red ink on my bucket list along with a million other wild and crazy things I wanted to do before I died. Guess I can check that one off. I felt a shift to my front and I slowly, ever so slightly, cracked one eye open and got a glimpse and then closed it quickly again. Justice. A smile begged to peek out while my brain screamed at me.
 
Shit.
 
Shit.
 
Shit.
 
Putting on a brave face and fighting with the butterflies in my stomach, I opened the same eye again and then the other. What I found staring back at me were beautiful blue eyes the color of the clearest ocean or blue sky. He had the goofiest lopsided smile on his face. He took his hand and tenderly rubbed it along my jaw and then brought his lips to mine. I pulled away from him and shook my head with a big fat no. First, I had morning breath. Second, no matter what we did last night, I still had a boyfriend and I could no longer blame anything on the massive amounts of alcohol in my system. He backed off immediately and his lips turned down. I knew I had upset him but I couldn’t worry about that right now. I had to get out of there, out from under his spectacular gaze. Jenson hadn’t done anything to deserve this from me. Guilt racked my chest and it was all I could do to not look Justice in the eyes.
 
Then I felt hands slip around me from behind and they landed on my waist. Out of nowhere a deep growl rumbled from Justice’s chest and I looked at those blue eyes to see fury marred his face. My stomach dipped again because although I was an independent chick, I kinda liked the idea of someone being possessive over me. I really liked it a lot. I thought it was sexy as hell when a man was that crazy about his woman. I knew from being around him and what Damien and Sydney said that Justice was pure raw Alpha male. He was one of a kind. Bossy, just like I liked.
 
He shook his head slightly and took a deep breath in, and just like that, his eyes returned to the sexy lust filled depths they had been just moments before.
 
Then he spoke. “Good morning, Abbee.” His voice was deep and rich and I felt it all the way down in my southern regions; my pussy grew a little wet and my nipples started to get hard. I also felt something very hard and oh so familiar poking my belly. Damn, I didn’t remember it being so big last night. But it was big. It felt delicious so close to me. What I wouldn’t give to get on him right now and ride him reverse cowgirl. Now that would be fucking hot. Last night was fun. He fucked me six ways from Sunday while I sucked off his brother. I got a little hand action from Reeve at one point too; man do those hands know how to work it. Those boys definitely inherited the big dick gene because neither were lacking. Not that I was taking measurements. Gah, who am I kidding, I was so doing an inspection of the male variety.
 
“Seriously, the name is Bee. That is what I go by; please try to use it.” My tone was clipped and my eyes narrowed. The only people who called me Abbee were my parents and even that irritated me. I liked Bee. He cocked an eyebrow at me and I just stared at him, trying to punctuate my point. You didn’t mess with Bee Berkhart. Not in the slightest.
 
I felt the hands that were around my waist loosen a little bit and then felt a kiss being placed behind my ear. I shivered from head to toe and the hair on my body stood up. It was soft and very sweet. Then there was that damn growl again and this time I had to laugh. He did sound sexy as hell when he growled and I couldn’t help but love it.
 
“You two are cracking me up. Justice, you need to chill the hell out. Reeve, enough of the kisses.” He just looked at me, trying to soften his features, but I saw the look in his eyes. It was a look of possession. Like he wanted to own me. And there was the tiniest little part of me that wanted to be owned by him. That is if I didn’t have a boyfriend. Fuck, fuck, shit, shit. I was the world’s worst girlfriend and clearly wasn’t as committed as I thought.
 
“But, baby, you are mine,” he said to me and then gave me a lopsided smile.
 
I had to laugh, like full on belly laugh. “Sorry, but first of all I have a boyfriend. Hate to break it to you boys and second, I’m not anyone’s. I’m my own person.” I wanted to remove their hands from me but it just felt so damn good being in our little sexual cocoon. I was lying to myself and them by saying I had a boyfriend. I wasn’t being true to him, not in the slightest, and I was enjoying the compromising position I was in. I was seriously going to hell.
 
“Last night when I had my cock deep inside of you, you said you were mine.” Damn it. Why did he have to remember that? Don’t you drink alcohol for a reason? I remember those damn shots going down so easily and all the cocktails we consumed. I was lucky I wasn’t bent over the toilet this morning.
 
“The hell she did Justice. I think you were hearing her say that she was mine. Come by the hospital and I’ll check your ears for a blockage.” I had to laugh again. If anyone could see us and hear this conversation they would think they just stepped into an HBO comedy special.
 
“The hell she didn’t. You didn’t even have sex with her so I don’t know what you are even talking about.” Damn men, they were so clearly confused. Or were they? I think Reeve was just trying to get a rise out of Justice which was pretty great. I loved seeing him get his boxers in a twist.
 
“Dude, you’re the one that didn’t have sex with her. She and I did the deed all night long.” Justice growled again and then pushed Reeve’s hands away from me.
 
Justice wasn’t really wild about the idea of including Reeve, but it did happen. Thank goodness the alcohol had loosened him up because right now he was being a bear to deal with. I know I’m supposed to be moving in with Jenson but last night I flirted my ass off with both Justice and Reeve. And it ended better than I could have hoped for. With both brothers naked in my bed.
 
Justice was just so sexy and irresistible. It was the way he walked and carried himself with confidence that was really a turn on. Not to mention I personally thought he was the best looking brother of the Blue bunch. Sure they were all gorgeous, but there was just something unique about Justice. Plus, I was always a sucker for a man in uniform. Every time he had come over to spend time with his brother Damien (my best friend Sydney’s now fiancé) my mouth went a little dry and my heart sped up a little faster and it might have skipped a beat. He was the full enchilada. So damn sexy. But last night at the bar when it was just the two of us talking I had seen a softer side to him that I really liked. It was evident that he wanted to know me better and had really focused on listening to me. Many times I would talk to Jensen and feel like he wasn’t even listening to anything I had to say. It totally pissed me off but I swept it under the carpet trying not to acknowledge the obvious.
 
Reeve was a bit more uppity for me. I worked in the hospital so I was familiar with how some of the doctor’s would treat us nurses. Now I hadn’t worked with Reeve. He actually had a reputation of being one of the nice doctor’s but he just wasn’t my taste. At least for more than a single sex filled night. I preferred more of the blue collared kind of guy and Justice was pure, raw, male, blue collar. I wish we had gotten out his cuffs and played last night. Now that would have been something else to check off my bucket list. The things I could do with this man were endless. Gah. What was I saying? I was in a relationship and supposed to be happy. But was I really happy? I had to ask myself that. If I allowed myself to have sex with another man, not just one, but two, was I really satisfied with the man I was with?
 
The answer was no. I was just happy with the idea of having someone in my life. Damien and Sydney had one another and I saw how their faces would light up when one of them got home from work or just sometimes it was the simple silence of them snuggling on the couch. I wanted that kind of special for myself. But who was I fooling? Jensen wasn’t that guy. The bad part about it is that I had already agreed to move in with him. When I gave someone my word I always followed through with it. So like it or not, despite my curiosity and slight feelings for Justice, I would be spending my time with Jensen. My stomach sank at the thought. I had signed up for a life that I didn’t know I could live, especially after spending a night with Justice. He treated me like I wanted to be treated and we just clicked. Like really clicked. We got along really well.
 
“What the fuck, dude? Not cool.” Reeve slid his hands back around my belly again and Justice removed them again.
 
“Seriously, you two need to knock it the hell off. It was fun, it was. But I’m not with anyone other than my boyfriend. Yes, that may make me sound like the biggest ho in the world and like a total tramp but last night was just fun.” I looked at Justice and then looked over at my shoulder at Reeve. I took a deep breath. “The thing is I didn’t tell either of you that I was yours. So you two need to get over it.” I was telling baldfaced lies to these men and I prayed that they didn’t see right through me. I had told Justice I was his. And in so many ways, even if I had only spent one night with him, I did want to be his.
 
“Get over it?” Justice’s eyes blazed with heat. He looked over my shoulder at Reeve. “Reeve, you know I don’t share. Last night was a rare one-time thing for me. Abbee is mine. So you better back the hell off.” Damn he was going all Alpha male on me.
 
I had had enough. I untangled myself from both of them and sat up. “Okay, boys, I think this little slumber party is over.” My room was in shambles. My bedding was all over the place and I was sure if I looked over the side of the bed I would see condom wrappers. And not just one. My body heated from the thought. What an amazing night. One that I would never forget. 
 
“It wouldn’t be over if Justice shared. You know, Justice, you never shared even as a child. What the hell is wrong with you?” Great, now the brothers were going to end up in a fight over me in my bedroom. Shit, in my bedroom. What was Sydney going to say? I knew Damien would more than likely pat his brothers on the back and give them a high five but Sydney couldn’t know about this – or could she? She would probably beg me to leave Jensen and go for Justice. Which wasn’t a bad idea. Gah, what was I thinking, it was a horrible idea. I had already planned to live with Jensen. That would be my life. But there was something that kept on pulling me, like an unexplainable force, to Justice. Last night when we were at the bar I felt like he really paid attention to me and got me. He was very interested in what I had to say and treated me with kindness and respect. Sometimes I have to question whether Jensen respects me. He can flat out be mean when he wants to be.
 
I brought myself back to the situation and listened to them bickering at one another. I could see this going into a full on fight with them rolling on the ground wrestling and blood being spilled. Fuck my life. I had sure made a big mess out of things. The numbers on my clock glowed bright. 8:30. It was early…but not so early I could sneak the guys out. I placed my hands on my temples squeezing my eyes shut and rubbing them gently. I really needed to figure out a way to get the hell out of this situation.
 
“Fucker, I do share just not my women.” Justice growled again.
 
“For the last time, Justice, I’m not your woman.” It was my turn to growl back. I was getting pissed. I wasn’t being a firecracker, I was a fucking stick of dynamite and I felt my face start to heat. When I got mad you better watch out. I would say I had a semi short fuse when it came to bullshit before I would just lose my shit on you. Sydney and I had gotten into it a few times over stupid nonsense but in the end we loved one another like sisters. Jensen hadn’t seen that side of me yet. I felt like I could never truly show the person I was to him. I usually always walked a fine line between what I wanted to be and what I needed to be. It was tough.
 
I heard my phone go off beside my bed on the night stand. It was the familiar beep I had set especially for when Jensen would text. Fuck. Fuck. Shit. 
 
“Um, Justice, sunshine, could you please hand me my phone?” He rolled over and reached for my phone handing it to me and then he sat up. I unlocked the screen with a manicured finger and read the message from Jenson. My stomach dropped and I felt light headed yet drowning in guilt.
 
Jensen: Hey baby missed you last night. I’ll be over to pick you up in twenty minutes we are going out to breakfast.
 
Fuck.
 
Shit.
 
Fuck.
 
What the hell was I going to do? Not only was I butt naked in my bed with two guys that were fighting, but Sydney and Damien would surely see them leave and then Jensen come over. They would think our house had turned into a brothel. With deft fingers I typed out a reply.
 
Me: This morning isn’t good for me. I’m actually not feeling very well. 
 
That would buy me some time. I would get them out of the house and then maybe I wouldn’t see Jensen until tonight when I could wash the smell of sex from my body and paint on a different face. And that was what I was doing when I was with him. I wore a mask to try and be the perfect girlfriend. The girlfriend that I knew he wanted.
 
My phone chimed again.
 
“For the love of God could someone just make this nightmare stop.” I looked at the text again. Yup, wasn’t getting out of this situation very easily.
 
Jensen: Be there in twenty better get your ass up and ready. You can be sick later.
 
He really wasn’t the nicest guy. I felt my stomach drop. How did I ever end up with him? The thing was I knew there were better guys out there. The way Justice treated me was a good example of that. Reeve had been so sweet and gentle as well. It was obvious they were raised right. I had met their parents and they were good people. Sydney spoke highly of them. I knew in my heart I should be with someone more like them.
 
I felt a presence over my shoulder and then I heard a growl again.
 
“He’s coming over here now?” Justice asked.
 
“Damn you. Quit reading my texts will you? Nosey.” I shoved him with an elbow into his gut and I felt a whisper of breath hit my back. I had packed a little mustard into it.
 
I climbed off the bed and went around to Reeve’s side. He was still lying down just staring at nothing; probably looking at the ceiling, if I had to guess. His eyes met mine and he smiled. I looked down at myself and realized why. I wasn’t wearing a stitch of clothing. I was butt naked standing before Reeve while he assessed me.
 
I wasn’t shy about my body. Unlike most women who were modest and self-conscious, I loved my body. Justice and Reeve had been over so much to hang out at the house that I was used to them so there was a comfort there. But he didn’t have to gawk at me. I didn’t have time to worry about him looking at me like he wanted to devour me. I needed to get his ass up and out.
 
Rolling my eyes at him, I reached down, took his hand in mine and used all my strength to get him up. I wasn’t exactly big so I had to put all my muscles into it. “Alright, Reeve, time to get up and get out. Up you go.” But when I pulled on him he pulled harder, causing me to fall on top of him. My breasts hit his face and I felt him bite my nipple. I quickly jumped off of him but his hand lingered. I slapped it away.
 
“Stop, now up you go.” But I won’t lie, that little nipple bite made my pussy tingle a little and my nipples grow hard.
 
“Oh alright. I need to get to the hospital anyway.” Great, one down, one to go. Now I know it won’t be this easy to get Justice out of here. I had a feeling I was in for the fight of my life.
 
I quickly made it to the other side of the bed and grabbed Justice by the hand, but when I pulled he did the same thing – he pulled me down on top of him. Our faces were mere inches apart and my eyes flickered up to his, holding his gaze. I gasped. Being so close to him set my body on fire. I felt it deep in my belly. This man could be my complete and utter undoing. There were so many things I wanted to say. I wanted to tell him to stay and that I wanted to get to know him better. I wanted him to continue to be possessive with me. But most of all I wanted to slip under the covers with him and have my wicked way with him without Reeve. He had been amazing last night and I wanted to experience that again. But I couldn’t. I was now in the biggest pickle of my life. I was post threesome with two naked men in my bedroom and my boyfriend was going to be here in less than twenty minutes.
 
I quickly broke eye contact with him. I looked over my shoulder to see Reeve was just slipping on his shirt and already had on his jeans. I thanked God. I turned back to Justice. “Alright you need to get your ass up and leave,” I said rather sternly. If I was going to have any luck I needed to give it to him straight and stay firm.
 
He just looked at me and then kissed me tenderly on the tip of my nose. I inhaled deeply and felt shivers course down my spine. What he did to me. He was like my own personal aphrodisiac. I was heady with his scent and feeling him all around me as our bodies pressed into one another. I looked to the clock and knew I had to get my shit together. I quickly rolled off of him and this time I grabbed him by the leg.
 
“Justice, I’m serious, you need to get the hell up.” This time he rolled over and sat up on the edge of the bed. He just sat there staring at me.
 
“Quit looking at me like that.” Damn the way he was looking at me made my entire body spasm.
 
“How exactly am I looking at you, Abbee?” He smiled at me, still not removing his eyes from me. It was like he was seeing inside my soul. Like he knew that I really didn’t want him to leave. It was like he had all of the answers to all of my problems, even the ones I didn’t know I had. 
 
“It’s Bee and you need to get up and get dressed like your brother is. Please and thank you.” I left him sitting there and walked over to my dresser and got a pair of panties out, and then leaned down and pulled open a drawer to get a pair of shorts out. But when I leaned down I felt him at my back his warm cock pressing firmly against me. It took everything in my power not to throw him back down on the bed. I tore myself away from him and went and stood on the other side of the room.
 
“This, you and me.” I pointed to him. “It’s over. It was one night full of fun. Now it is time for you to leave.” I huffed out an exasperated breath.
 
“I’m not leaving. Reeve, suit yourself.”
 
Reeve walked to me, gave me a hug, and kissed me on the cheek.
 
“Thanks, Bee, I’ll see you soon.” He opened the door and exited and I prayed he would go unnoticed by my roommates. I would have a lot of explaining to do. Oh, who was I fooling? The more I thought about it the more I couldn’t wait to tell Sydney. She was going to die, but in a good way. I admired Reeve in the way he was a nice guy and followed my instructions. This is the way things were supposed to go down and apparently he had gotten the memo, but Justice was another story. I took my hands and placed them on my hips and gave him a glare.
 
“Justice, you have 2.5 seconds to get your ass dressed and out of my room or I’m going to go get Damien and have him remove you.” That was totally an empty threat. I wasn’t going to go get Damien. Plus with the way Justice was built, all fine lines and hard muscles, he could clearly take Damien. He had the perfect body. One that I wanted to lick all over.
 
He just smirked at me. Fucker. “I’ll get dressed but I’m not going anywhere. I told you, you are mine. When your boyfriend gets here I’m telling him to get lost.”
 
I huffed out a breath again. I could feel my face heat up as I clenched my fingers into my palms and rolled my head around. I was tight. “Justice, get your shit on and get out.”
 
“Why the hell are you acting all bitchy to me?” He bent over and grabbed his shirt. Thank God he was finally getting the message.
 
“I’m not. I just can’t have you here when Jensen gets here.” Damn, I was running out of time and was really going to be cutting this one close. “And I’m not a bitch.”
 
“Then quit acting like one.” He bent down, picking up his jeans and shimmied them up his legs. 
 
I walked over to my dresser and grabbed a shirt out and threw it on over myself, sans bra. At this rate I was doing good just to get clothes on before Jensen got here. Granted, I smelled like sex. I grabbed a bottle of perfume of my dresser and spritzed myself with it hoping it would help, but all I felt was hopeless at the moment. “Fuck my life, I smell like sex, Justice.”
 
“You smell perfect, like me.” He walked over and sniffed me. The thing is, I kinda liked his smell on my body. I sniffed one last time and deeply inhaled his scent.
 
Looking over my shoulder, I noticed Justice went back to getting ready and was slipping on his shoes. I wanted to do a happy dance I was so excited. Hopefully I would get myself out of this sticky-ass situation. He stood up from the bed and walked over to me he slipped his arms around me and brought his mouth to mine. I didn’t stop him this time. Despite my morning breath I kissed him back. I didn’t know if this would be the last time I had the opportunity and I didn’t want to regret it for the rest of my life.
 
He fisted his hand in my hair and I grabbed him behind his neck, holding on to him for dear life while he deepened our kiss. It was sweet, wet and full of so much emotion. I didn’t want to let him go. I wanted to stay wrapped up in his arms and brave Jensen together. I wanted to tell Jensen that I wasn’t his and that I was Justice’s like I had clearly told him last night. I wanted to be his. To be owned and possessed by him. But I couldn’t.
 
I was getting so lost in our kiss and thoughts of a life with Justice that I didn’t hear the door crack open.
 
“Bee?”


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BLOG TOUR / PROMO BLITZ ~ The Fighting to Survive Trilogy by Brenda Kennedy

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TITLE : A Life Worth Fighting

AUTHOR : Brenda Kennedy

GENRE : Soft Romance

RELEASE DATE : June 19, 2015

 


 

synopsis

Leah and Robert Grether face many battles after losing their only child, three-year-old Jamie. Leah still grieves and battles depression while Robert fights his own inner demons of guilt.

As they try to move on, their attempts to conceive work.

Leah is making progress. Her business is thriving and her pregnancy is progressing. Robert is a pro boxer with a personal and professional goal of taking the championship title away from Abel Kennedy, to whom he has lost once already.

Leah realizes that Robert won’t stop his crusade to fight Kennedy until he gets a second chance to fight him, although Kennedy has already killed one opponent in the ring.

And then Leah and Robert receive devastating news that could tear their world apart, forever.

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Brenda Kennedy

Amazon Best Selling Author

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First and foremost I am a wife, mother and grandmother.

I am also a nurse and a new author.

I moved to sunny Florida in 2006 and never looked back.

I love fresh squeezed lemonade, crushed ice, teacups, wineglasses, non-franchise restaurants, ice cream cones, boating, picnics, cookouts, throwing parties, lace, white wine, mojitos, strawberry margaritas, white linen tablecloths, fresh flowers and Pinterest. I also love to read and write and to spend time with my family. My books thus far, have been inspired by the things I love and the people who influence me, every single day to be a better person.

CONNECT WITH BRENDA

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OTHER BOOKS BY BRENDA KENNEDY :

The Starting Over Trilogy:

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The Freedom Trilogy:

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The Fighting To Survive Trilogy:

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Tour proudly hosted by Christina at #CBB Productions

PROMO TOUR ~ Heartstrings by Kelli McCracken

 

 

Heartstrings
by Kelli McCracken

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“You’ve suffered a terrible tragedy, Jo.” That’s what my doctor keeps telling me. All I know is that I’ve lost everything — my ability to play piano, six years of my life, my will to live…

The only thing keeping Jocelyn ‘Jo’ Hayes from falling apart is her brother, Brighton, whose past is sketchier than her mind. Brighton’s hiding secrets. He refuses to give Jo the answers she needs, but after she meets the mysterious
Adam, she decides to keep secrets of her own.
As Jo’s recovery fluctuates, Adam’s purpose in her life grows more confusing. Then Paxton Carr shows up at her door. His resemblance to Adam sends Jo’s on a quest to discover the truth and regain her memories.

But the truth doesn’t always set someone free. Will Jo find the missing pieces of her memory and solve the riddle she calls life, or will the ugly truth destroy what’s left of her mind?



 
 
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What people are saying about Heartstrings:
 
All I can say is Kelli McCracken blew my mind but in a good way. WOW! So AMAZING! ~ Sweet N Sassy Book A Holics
 
I am not new to Kelli McCracken’s ability to create art with words…as having read the Soulmate series books, but I must
say she blew me away with this book! Her characters are so real and simply become a part of your life from page one until the end…and linger after that. ~ Lara Lynn
 
This book has the most precious love story written. I would love to see it on the big screen. Without a doubt, Kelli is the Queen of Romance within a mystery package. She is especially my number one author for love stories. ~ Dee Archer
 
I cannot begin to describe how much I enjoyed this book. It’s so full of emotion and keeps you guessing all the way
through! I couldn’t bare to stop reading, and devoured it in just one day! ~ Kim
 
 
 
Tell us a little about yourself and your background?
 
I’m just a crazy lady who listens to the voices in her head and writes stories about these pesky people. lol. I’ve been writing since I was 13 years old (11 if you count poetry). I’m a chocolate connoisseur, professional percolator, and master in the art of procrastination. Some people say I have a sense of humor. Who’da thunk it? 😀
 
I write paranormal romance, though it’s on the lighter side. The first book in my Soulmate Series was mistaken for a contemporary romance by a lot of readers. There’s more of a paranormal element in the subsequent books. I do plan to write a few contemporary novels soon, but paranormal is my chosen genre.
 
Which writers inspire you?
 
Edgar Allan Poe is part of the reason I began writing. His work is dark but passionate. He knew how to hit a nerve with his readers. Stephen King inspires me as well. To me, he is one of those people who defines perseverance. The man received so many rejection letters early in his career but he kept writing and submitting his work until it made it into the right hands. Whenever I feel like giving up on writing, I think about what he went through. 
 
Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?
 
Marlon Teixeira is a male model, so I’m not sure about his acting skill 😉 but visually, he makes a great Dylan McBride
 
Heaven Lewis is a tough one. I’ve always imagined Natalie Portman or Crystal Reed (ex Alison from Teen Wolf)
 
Cam Gigandet would make a great Layne Perry
 
When did you decide to become a writer?
 
I’ve always loved writing and reading. I’ve had an overactive imagination since I was a kid, but writing came into play through poetry when I was 11. I started writing stories at the age of 13. I decided to do this full time back in 2010 and published my debut novel in November of 2011.
 
Do you write on a typewriter, computer, dictate or longhand?
 
Believe it or not, I write quite a bit on my iPhone when I can’t get to my laptop, which is where I do most of my writing.
 
Do you work to an outline or plot or do you prefer just see where an idea takes you?
 
I used to get an idea and just run with it, but with my last two books, I used on an outline. I did the same for my current work in progress. Not that characters like sticking to what I plan for them. Layne Perry is a prime example of this. He wasn’t originally supposed to have such a huge part in this series, but when Dylan grew quiet, Layne didn’t. His story came to the forefront.
 
Do you read much and if so who are your favorite authors.
 
I’ve had a love affair with books even before I could read. I would sit with my picture books in my lap for hours, creating my own stories to match the illustrations. I love reading, though I don’t get to do it as much as I used to. Some of my favorites are J R R Tolkien, Johanna Lindsey, PC & Kristin Cast, Amber Scott, Elena Gray, and Stephen King.
 
Do you think that giving books away free works and why?
 
If you mean by doing giveaways and contests, I’m not really sure. I think authors have a 50/50 shot in gaining a new reader this way. When it comes to free books on Amazon, the answer is no. When Amazon’s Prime program began in late 2011, it created a buzz that drew in customers. But as more and more authors began using it, the site became saturated with free books. Most people who shop for free books never read them. I’m not saying everyone does this. I have a good friend who shops for free books to find new authors. It’s a great way to discover a new author without having to pay for a book you may not like. But most people who get free books don’t read them. It also opens up more piracy opportunities.
 
How do you relax?
 
Relax? What is this relax thing you speak of? lol. When I can find the time, I like taking walks or soaking in a long hot bath with a glass of wine. Whenever I release a book, I like to veg out with a movie marathon.
 
What is your favorite book and why?
 
I can’t pick a favorite. I love PC & Kristin Cast’s House of Night series and Johanna Lindsey’s The Devil Who Tamed Her. Stephen King’s Carrie is one of my all time favorites.
 
What is your favorite quote?
 
“Here’s to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes… The ones who see things differently — they’re not fond of rules… You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them, but the only thing you can’t do is ignore them because they change things… They push the human race forward, and while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do.” —Steve Jobs
 
What is your favorite movie and why?
 
Again, this is another hard decision. There a couple movies I could watch over and over.
 
1) Pretty Woman
2) He’s Just Not That Into You
3) Dazed and Confused 
 
Which famous person, living or dead would you like to meet and why?
 
J. R. R. Tolkien. I love his work. His imagination was so vast. I’m envious.
 
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
 
Don’t go into this industry expecting to be a best seller. Go in with the idea of creating something that makes you happy then share it with the world. As long as you’re happy with what you’ve created, no one else’s opinions matter, and you will be faced with many opinions. 
 
Where can you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
 
 I don’t see much changing, other than having more published books. I’m in this for the long haul. 
 
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
 
Funny you should ask that considering my characters have some superpowers of their own. 😉 I would have to say I’d want teleportation abilities. Imagine how much money you’d save in gas and car expenses. 
 
What secret talents do you have?
 
I’m ambidextrous. Oh, I read tarot cards too. 
 
Where is one place you want to visit that you haven’t been before?
 
Greece and Ireland. Greece, because of the amount of history. Ireland, because of family heritage.
 
What is something you want to accomplish before you die?
 
Learn to play guitar
 
What does your writing process look like?
 
A hot mess. 🙂 As scenes come to me, I take notes on my phone and usually transfer them to my computer when I have time. I use Scrivener to organize my notes and create my outlines. Once my outline is complete, or pretty close, I start writing. Sometimes I write before I do an outline. Either way, it gets me where I’m going. After I start writing, I’m a slave to the story from 7am to 4pm each day. I used to write around the clock, but having a family makes that impossible. I want time with my kids and husband too.
 
What do you consider to be your best accomplishment?
 
Aside from my kids? 🙂 To me, it was taking control of my career. Being an indie author isn’t easy by any means, but I like the fact that I have control of every aspect of my career. 
 
Is there a certain type of scene that’s harder for you to write than others? Love? Action? Racy?
 
I don’t think so. When I first started, I had a little trouble with action scenes, but I think I’ve gotten better. I just write the story the way the characters tell it.
 
Did you learn anything from writing your books and what was it?
 
Yes. I learned that love is about more than being with someone. It’s about the sacrifices you’re willing to make for that person, not because you have to or it’s expected, but because you want to.
 
Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
 
I’m fortunate that I have a lot of supportive people. Naming one seems a bit unfair because I consider them a part of my team and without them, none of this would be possible. My two editors, my PA, and a few good friends are to me, on entity. My team.
 
Can you share a little of your current work with us?
 
Sure. I’d love to share it. Thank you for asking. This if from my newest release, Heartstrings:
 
It was gloomy, and cold, and the rain misting upon me was so light, it was as if I’d stumbled into a spider web, dragging it along with every step. The fog, like my confusion, thickened the further I walked. The constant whirling in the distance ignited my curiosity. I wasn’t sure what lie ahead, just out of view, but I knew it was something important, something that resulted from dire consequences.
 
The surrounding trees with their aggressive limbs slowed my progression. If not for them or the snow-covered ground, I would have sworn I was walking through sand. The snow wasn’t much better, and the trees… Each low hanging branch grabbed at my clothing like skeleton fingers, just as slim, and harsh, and terrifying.
 
I picked up my pace as best I could. My heart raced to the point I thought it would break free of the cage in which it was captured—my ribs. I wasn’t sure how I’d gotten here, or where here was, but I knew if I didn’t find my way out, I’d be lost in darkness forever.
 
Lights flickered in the distance. I hurried toward them though my head spun fiercely. The faster I moved, the more they grew out of reach. It was like being in a bad dream and seeing a door at the end of a tunnel. Despite how many steps I took, I never reached the end.
 
Screeching pieced my ears. The sky above was dark and dreary, but showed no signs of the owl I swore had made the noise. Yet the noise reoccurred, only louder—closer. Its sharp, crisp vibrations didn’t resemble an animal, but something mechanical. Perhaps it was a piece of heavy machinery. My father operated them all his life. I’d been to his job sites and knew the sound well. Still, something in me said I was wrong about the sound again.
 
The air grew tainted with smoke. It coupled with the putrid scent of something resembling burnt rubber. There was another scent I didn’t recognize, and it was worse than the former. I stumbled through the fog, desperate to find the source of the commotion, as well as the stench. Dread pumped through my veins. I had no clue what lie ahead. The fog wouldn’t dissipate, which left me fumbling my way through the snow.
 
What appeared to be the edge of my woodland purgatory loomed ahead. I would soon have answers. Just a little further to edge and—
 
The sound of metal twisting split the air. I fell to the ground, taking cover just as crunching echoed through the woods. Each heartbeat vibrated my chest. The amount of fear was insurmountable.
 
Though part of me wanted to stand up and drive forward into the unknown, I couldn’t. My joints froze, keeping my body still. The feeling that something terrible was happening wouldn’t fade. No matter how afraid I was of what was occurring just out of view, I needed answers.
 
Pushing myself back to a stand, I clung to a tree, gawking at the edge of the woods. More lights flickered. Each flash beckoned me forward until I couldn’t resist the urge to move. I crept closer, hoping my heart wouldn’t explode before I received the answers to my questions. And just as I stepped from the slumbering, snow filled woodlands, blackness entrapped me. And I fell.
 
My body twirled through a bottomless pit that pulled me further into its desperate nothingness. I grabbed and kicked about frantically. My last hope of finding something to stop me slipped away.
 
Then my body crashed into something hard. I lurched forward as my eyes flew open and the spinning stopped. My hands fisted the soft fabric beneath them. Once they came into view, a breath of relief filled my lungs.
 
I was home, safe and sound and tucked into my bed. The fabric was nothing more than my sheets, and the nothingness from which I’d came, a bad dream. Knowing as much provided me with a small sense of peace. But it didn’t last long. Despite the fact that I’d escaped the darkness of my subconscious, I was faced with one reality I didn’t want.
 
The answers I sought were still questions waiting to be unraveled. And the memories I longed to regain were still locked away in the part of my brain that refused to cooperate.
 
Tears warmed my cheeks before I buried my face into my pillow. And I wept. Uncontrollably. Profusely. Hopelessly…
 
Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?



 

PROMO POST ~ The Last Legacy by Taylor Lavati

tll-2Picture  BLURB:

Disaster strikes North America, leaving people without the most basic amenities. Lana
is taken from her home and forced to accept a world full of infected, violent beings. Life as humans know it is over, and in its place is a constant fear of death, paranoia, and savagery.
The mission in this new world is simple: survive. But survival comes at a cost few can bear.

As Lana and Jim find more survivors, new threats surface, their past decisions haunting them as they pass through abandoned towns. Armed with nothing but the pack on her back and a long-handled knife, Lana fears whether or not they’ll make it to their destination–or if she’ll perish along the way.

Pre-Order Link:

Goodreads: 

With Number On Bottom Spine 


The Last Legacy: Season One PLAYLIST

Pre- SOUND GARDEN: Black Hole Sun

1- BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE: Road to Nowhere

2- BLINK 182: Dammit

3- DEMI LOVATO: Skyscraper

4- ALL AMERICAN REJECTS: Move Along

5- LINKIN PARK: Lost in the Echo

6- FLORENCE + THE MACHINE: Shake it Out

7- KELLY CLARKSON: Stronger

8- DAVID GUETTA: Titanium

9- CAGE THE ELEPHANT: Ain’t No Rest For The Wicked

10- ARCADE FIRE: Rebellion (Lies)

Bonus: MICHAEL FRANTI: Hey World (Don’t Give Up)

 


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About the Author
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Taylor Lavati is the twenty-three year old author of the bestselling fantasy trilogy, A Curse Books. She also writes contemporary romances, such as A Reliant Love and For The Love of Ash.
More books under her name can be found under the “BOOKS” tab.
Raised in a small Connecticut town, Taylor now works at a local gym, writing in her free time, and going to school at night to be an elementary school teacher.
She loves to read–the author who most inspires her: Jodi Picoult. 
She’s a Gemini to the core. She married in August 2014, and has a pretty little fur-baby. She was on the varsity Ice Hockey team in high school. She performed dance at various arenas, like Disney World Epcot center and Madison Square Garden. And she’s probably the most competitive person on the face of the earth (especially when playing video/board games with her husband). 

AUTHOR LINKS:
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** SALE ** ~ Hard Rock Harlots series (Books 1 & 2) by Kendall Grey

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WHAT:  Kendall Grey’s Hard Rock Harlots (Rock Star Erotica) Ebook sale!

Strings – $.99 or FREE on select retailers! (regularly priced at $2.99)
Beats – $.99 (regularly priced at $2.99)

WHEN: June 16 – 18, 2015

WHERE:

STRINGS (Book 1 in the Hard Rock Harlots series/$.99 or FREE sale):

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Amazon US:

Amazon UK:

Amazon CA:

Amazon AU:

Barnes & Noble:

Kobo: FREE!

iTunes: FREE!

Google Play: FREE!

 

BEATS (Book 2 in the Hard Rock Harlots series/$.99 sale):

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Amazon US:

Amazon UK:

Amazon AU:

Barnes & Noble:

Kobo:

iTunes:

Google Play:


SALE BLITZ – One Day At A Wedding by Kelly Rae

ODAAW Banner Sale

Title: One Day At A Wedding Series
Author: Kelly Rae

Sale Blitz: June 8-10
Hosted by: SBB Promotions

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Bride in wedding day in lavender field


Synopsis Logo

Once Upon a Wedding Story Synopsis

Cassie Anderson, bridesmaid extraordinaire, is tired of attending her friend’s weddings either solo, or with her best friend, Thad. Finding a real date is simply too much work. Especially when she sees an old acquaintance from high school, Dan, at her friend Shelley’s wedding. After the spark shared between them, Dan has become the object of her affection. Too bad he has a nasty habit of having a date on his arm at every turn. Stealing another woman’s date is against the rules, but if she could just catch him alone…well, that would be fair game! Unfortunately, timing is everything, and she and Dan seem to have the worst. Always the bridesmaid, walking away with nothing more than a dreadful dress,

Cassie is committed to changing her luck and getting her man.

Once Upon a Wedding

Every Other Wedding Synopsis

Cassie Anderson has been the girl of Dan’s dreams since high school. Unfortunately, her return to his life comes at the worst time possible. As he tries to put his life back together, he keeps an eye on her, hoping to find her single at the right time. A time when it all hurts a bit less. A time when he can offer her all of the love she deserves. After three weddings of happenstance meetings, Dan finds himself to be a little more ready for everything that is Cassie. Putting himself out there, he can only hope she is everything he thinks she might be — his forever girl.

Anything but a Wedding

Thad never expected to find anyone who meant more to him than his best friend, Cassie. She was the one woman he loved enough not to sleep with. He was a player, but an honest one. Unfortunately, not everyone felt that balanced out his love ’em and leave ’em ways. He just didn’t see a need to settle down — yet. Then, he met Brianna, who made him think about the future — a future with her — which was a new experience for Thad. Brianna is also a new kind of woman and convincing her that they have a future might just be the challenge of his life.

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Not One More Wedding

Brianna works through men like she works through her closet — seasonally. Any other way has always been trouble. When she meets Thad, she is thrilled. Not only does he intrigue and excite her, but he is just like her — noncommittal. He sets her on fire with his smooth talk and honest approach to dating. Even without being physical beyond a kiss, the thought of him makes her entire body hum. Except, Thad has gone and gotten attached to her in a way neither of them expected; attached in a way she simply cannot allow. Unfortunately, he won’t allow their relationship to become physical until she surrenders her heart to him, which is a battle she isn’t sure she can win. The longer it lasts, the less sure she becomes of wanting it to.

ODAAW Teaser2

Bonus Story! When Cassie Met Thad

Were you curious about how Cassie and Thad met? Read all about their story in this bonus story exclusive to this version.

Buy Links

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Excerpt from Once Upon a Wedding Book One:

“Cassie. Cassie, did you see who’s here?” Shelley tugged at her skirt, trying to get her attention directed toward the back of the church.

“What’s the matter with you?” she asked Shelley and then turned to face the back of the church. “Ohh, now I see what you mean.”

“And yet, you ignored me,” Thad said from the other side.

She just blew him off with a wave. He would get over it in two seconds or less anyway.

There he stood, looking as dapper as a GQ cover. His suit was a very nice shade of blue, with a white shirt and what appeared to be a pinstripe tie. By the time Shelley had gotten her attention, he had already selected a pew and scooted by people for a seat. The most important thing Cassie noticed was his lack of a date.

Who doesn’t take their fiancée to a wedding?

This could be a good sign. Of course, she would have to do some more investigating before she determined whether he had a single status at this point, or remained affianced. It then dawned on her that she, herself, had brought a date to the wedding. She took her eyes off Dan long enough to glance over at Thad, currently very busy staring at the legs of the woman next to him.

Boy, can I pick ‘em. Even my pretend boyfriends are losers.

“Thad, do you think you could be a little more discrete about your appreciation for our neighbor there?” she asked through gritted teeth, trying to keep her disdain to a low roar.

“Oh, shit, I’m sorry Cassie. But did you see her calves? I swear, it’s just a professional thing,” he said this with the gigolo grin, his specialty, one that hardly ever worked on Cassie. Hardly ever.

“If this is where you tell me how you’re a critic and you were just admiring her legs in a professional manner, don’t bother,” Cassie uttered in her most stern, yet quiet, voice. “You critique the arts, Thad, her legs are not performing.”

“I could argue that point, but seeing how your face is scrunching up at me, I won’t. You’re right, I’m sorry. It won’t happen again.”

Thad did his best to appear remorseful and even went so far as to kiss her forehead and squeeze her hand. She did not squeeze back.

To Cassie’s way of thinking, the fact that he had been holding her hand the whole time, including while checking out the lady’s legs next to them, made it a little worse. What could she say, though, considering she had been waiting and hoping for the appearance of another man?

She turned her head and caught Dan glancing in her direction. His mouth immediately curved up into a smile and he waved in Cassie’s direction. Cassie returned the smile and raised her left hand to reciprocate the wave, realizing she’d brought Thad’s hand along with her. Making it obvious that she had brought a date to the wedding, she immediately dropped Thad’s hand. Too late. She knew Dan had seen already.

Damn it!

 


 

Kelly Rae is mom to an amazing young man. Everything else is just a way to keep busy between laughs with her son, or a way to pay for his sports equipment and growing feet. When she was twelve years old, she hit the big leagues by winning a Young Authors Award (okay, okay, it was only within her school district. Shh.) Although she has been unable to duplicate this success in her adult writing, she is giving it her best shot. Kelly, her son, and their chocolate lab, live in the Pacific Northwest where they enjoy the sun when it shines and the snow when it falls. When they aren’t dancing in the rain or singing at the top of their lungs in the car, they are planning their dream vacations…which they might even get to take some day.

Kelly Rae

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