Ella Jade

Crossfire of Love Blog Tour Starts Today...

2012-03-14T07:33:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

I'm over at Dawn's Reading Nook today kicking off my Crossfire of Love Blog tour.

http://dawnsreadingnook.blogspot.com/?zx=a81e9a59f860eab4

I'm talking about Crossfire of Love and giving you a sneak peek into my next Beachwalk Press release Make Me Stay. You'll also find out what super power I wish I had.

Stop by and check it out.

Crossfire of Love releases this Monday!

http://beachwalkpress.com/crossfire-of-love/

Can an arranged marriage lead to love?

Recent college graduate Gabriella has finally married the man of her dreams, the older, charismatic attorney Lorenzo Martinez. She's had a crush on him for as long as she can remember and always imagined they'd one day find their happily ever after. Unfortunately, they enter into a union arranged by their fathers.

Lorenzo is charming, protective, and loyal to his crime lord father Carlo. When Carlo asks Lorenzo to marry Gabriella he jumps at the opportunity. He's been drawn to her for many years and knows by marrying her he's helping to protect her father.

Gabby is resentful and won't be Lorenzo's charity case. But sparks fly and the couple soon gives into their desire, realizing they were meant to be together.

What happens when Carlo's enemies threaten their future? Will someone get caught in the crossfire?

***

Have a great day!
Ella
xoxo

Meet The Author... Jane Isaac

2012-03-13T04:03:00.002-07:00

Please welcome Jane Isaac to the mix today...

What motivates Jane Isaac the author? Why do you write?

I’ve always loved to read and had a pretty over-active imagination. Writing is the perfect channel for this. I like to write about strange events happening to real people; it could just as easily be you or I in my stories.

What is your favorite genre to write and why?

An avid reader of all types of crime fiction, I relish the pace and twists and turns. My biggest influences, in recent years, have been James Patterson and Jeffery Deaver, so I sought to write a page turner with an original twist.

How many hours a day do you devote to writing? Do you have a set routine or do you write when the mood strikes?

Like many authors, I fit my writing around a day job and a family. Instead of imposing daily word counts, I prefer to write in scenes, when the mood strikes, but my book is never far from my mind. I have been known to pull over on a drive to pen some notes, or wake in the middle of the night to get some lines down, that I later type up.

Is there a certain aspect of the story you begin with? Do you create the characters first or do you come up with the plot?

I usually start with a character that faces an extraordinary event associated with a murder, and explore how that affects their life and the repercussions thereafter, running this story alongside the police investigation. But I’m very much a pantser. My stories and characters develop as I write them.

Tell us about the most intriguing character you've created.

An Unfamiliar Murder contains snippets from the killer’s point of view throughout. Crafting his character required a great deal of research into serial killers and the behavior of psychopaths. Although intriguing, the reality of it all did give me nightmares at times. I only used the best parts for my character.

Who is your favorite author? And, if given the opportunity to meet them, what would you ask them?

I have been a huge fan Jeffery Deaver for many years now. The Empty Chair is my favorite of his crime thrillers and is a sizzling page turner. He was commissioned to write the latest James Bond novel, Carte Blanche, and I was lucky enough to meet him at the recent UK launch, where he told me that editing and re-writing are at the heart of his work: re-working pieces until he was comfortable with them.

What did you do when you found out your first book had been contracted?

At the very moment the email came through? Well, I’m a very excitable person – I shouted a few whoop whoops, and did a little dance around the lounge with my dog. Then I phoned everyone and we had a big family celebration.

Has there been a person or influence in your life that has helped you reach your writing goals?

My husband and daughter have lived with my characters for years. I couldn’t do this without either of them.

What advice would you offer a writer trying to publish?

Make sure that you edit your manuscript and it is the best possible work you can produce. Then send it everywhere and don’t be put off by rejection letters. There are a plethora of reasons for rejections: their lists are full, they don’t like the style, they just signed something similar etc… It doesn’t necessarily mean your work is poor, we are in a subjective profession – what one person hates, another may love. Just keep trying. You only need one yes.

Tell us about your current release.

An Unfamiliar Murder

What secrets lurk beneath a normal, healthy skin?

Arriving home from a routine day at work, Anna Cottrell has no idea that her life is about to change forever. But discovering the stabbed body of a stranger in her flat, then becoming prime suspect in a murder enquiry is only the beginning. Her persistent claims of innocence start to crumble when new evidence links her irrevocably with the victim...

Leading her first murder enquiry, DCI Helen Lavery unravels a trail of deception, family secrets and betrayal. When people close to the Cottrell family start to disappear, Lavery is forced into a race against time. Can she catch the killer before he executes his ultimate victim?

Buy Link:

Paperback US:
http://www.amazon.com/Unfamiliar-Murder-Jane-Isaac/dp/1937758060/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1326864285&sr=8-1Paperback UK:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Unfamiliar-Murder-Jane-Isaac/dp/1937758060/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1328031646&sr=8-2
Kindle US:
http://www.amazon.com/An-Unfamiliar-Murder-ebook/dp/B006YK6U18/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1326864285&sr=8-3
Kindle UK:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/An-Unfamiliar-Murder-ebook/dp/B006YK6U18/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1326868728&sr=8-1

Do you have any upcoming projects in the works?

I am currently writing the sequel to An Unfamiliar Murder, which should be out by the end of the year.

Where can readers connect with you?

You can contact me on my website at www.janeisaac.co.uk. I love to hear from readers and writers. Sign up to my newsletter for updates on An Unfamiliar Murder and its sequel which should be out by the end of 2012. Alternatively, follow me on Twitter: @JaneIsaacAuthor or on Face Book: Jane Isaac Author.

***

Thanks so much for joining us today.

Crossfire of Love Release Party!

2012-03-11T08:20:00.000-07:00

We're a little over a week away from the release of my contemporary romance Crossfire of Love. It's set to debut on March 19, 2012 with Beachwalk Press.

To celebrate the release,I'll be hanging out over on the Beachwalk Press Yahoo loop with my fellow author Tamaria Soana. Her suspense novella Obsession is releasing that day too.

We'll be giving away copies of our releases along with some Amazon Gift Cards. We'll post excerpts, gab about nonsense and answer any questions you may have for us. So, please join us on...

Monday, March 19, 2012 at 8pm est.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BeachwalkPress/

Can an arranged marriage lead to love?

Gabby is resentful and won't be Lorenzo's charity case. But sparks fly and the couple soon gives into their desire, realizing they were meant to be together.

What happens when Carlo's enemies threaten their future? Will someone get caught in the crossfire?

Join the loop today so you'll be ready to chat with us next Monday.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BeachwalkPress/

2012-03-09T04:00:00.002-08:00

I'm thrilled to have my fellow Noble Romance author Sarah Ballance here today!

Thank you for inviting me here today! It's an honor to share the stage with you today. ;c)

What motivates Sarah Ballance the author? Why do you write?

Girl, I have six kids—young ones, all 13 and under—and we homeschool. That means there's a lot of people in my house most days, and I swear I never finish *anything.* There's no end to the laundry, the dishes, the cleaning, schoolwork … *nothing* is ever finished. But a story? Yeah, I can finish that, and that feeling of accomplishment is the reason I write. I laugh about it, but it's absolutely true!

When did you know you were a writer? Was it always your destiny or did you stumble upon your craft by accident?

Total accident. I started copywriting several months after we had our fifth baby. One of my friends suggested I write a novel. My immediate reaction was to say I couldn't write fiction, but the thought started to bug me so I wrote one just to say I could. That first story was DOWN IN FLAMES and I sold it on the very first query. I've improved a lot since then, but it was an incredible (and astounding) experience!

What is your favorite genre to write and why?

I adore romantic suspense. The element of danger really raises the stakes for the characters, making everything hotter and more intense. I don't write explicit sex, but I do love thick romantic tension, and you can't beat suspense for that!

Is there a particular genre you haven't tried but what like to? What is it and why?

I secretly want to write horror. But don't tell anyone. ;c)

How did you get into eBook publishing?

When I queried my first story to Noble Romance, they released it in ebook format. A book contract can be super persuasive! LOL. (It'll be in print eventually—rumor has it they're working on their backlist.)

How many hours a day do you devote to writing? Do you have a set routine or do you write when the mood strikes?

I devote the morning, until about 10:00 a.m., to promotional activity, which can include setting up blogs and writing interviews. In theory, that leaves my after dinner hours free for writing, but it doesn't always work quite that way, LOL. Kids and chaos go hand in hand, and the combo isn't highly productive. ;c)

Is there a certain aspect of the story you begin with? Do you create the characters first or do you come up with the plot?

I get an idea—not even a plot, but a whim—and I start writing. From there, everything tends to fall into place, although I'm a bit of a panster. I love when things take an unexpected turn—it's an amazing feeling when my characters start making demands!

What did you do when you found out your first book had been contracted?

I didn't believe it. I thought writers were supposed to accumulate a huge pile of rejections first, so naturally I zeroed in on all the areas of the contract which gave them an "out," LOL. Like if they didn't take any steps toward publication after a year, the contract was null (or something—don't quote me on that). I lived in utter disbelief until the moment I saw it for sale at Noble Romance, and I can't say I believed it then, LOL. What an amazing moment, though!

Do you have any words of inspiration to aspiring authors? What advice would you offer a writer trying to publish?

Get a critique partner who will be honest with you about your work. NO ONE is perfect (even editors need editors!) so if your "critter" doesn't find room for improvement in your work, find someone who will. If you don't have your work thoroughly critiqued and edited in private, there are a great many readers who will be more than happy to call you out in public. Crits are GOOD! Relish them. ;c)

Tell us about your current release.

In UNFORGIVEN, my heroine comes home to a very unwelcome visitor: her ex, Gage, and his revolver, which he has pointed at her head. His brother was just murdered in what Gage believes to be a case of mistaken identity, and thanks to a nice set-up it appears Riley is the only one who could have pulled the trigger. But things aren't what they seem, and their reunion simply explodes from there. As for the identity of the killer? No one saw that coming!

Blurb: UNFORGIVEN

Riley Beckett's past just came back to haunt her . . . and this time, he's got a gun.

When Gage Lawton finds his brother shot dead on his back porch, every shred of evidence points to one person: Gage's former lover, Riley. He and she didn't part ways on good terms, and he's not planning to rekindle anything now--not when he's got a revolver pointed at her head and a finger on the trigger.

A year after Riley swore she and Gage were over, he returns in a hail of gunfire. One look into those achingly familiar blue eyes and she knows how wrong she was to let him go, but now far more than their heated past stands in the way. A twist of fate puts them in the crosshairs of a killer, leaving Riley with two slim options: trust her greatest betrayer or face a murderer on her own.

Buy Link: https://www.nobleromance.com/Books/325/Unforgiven

Do you have any upcoming projects in the works?

I sure do! TIDE OF LIES, the full length conclusion to my novella FAMILIAR LIGHT, releases April 2 from Noble Romance. Ahead of the new release, FAMILIAR LIGHT is just $1.50, a price exclusive to Noble. You can grab your copy here: https://www.nobleromance.com/Books/344/Familiar-Light

FAMILIAR LIGHT: Seven years of longing comes down to just one night.

Laney Kent returns to Barrier Shoals hoping to reunite with her first love, Bridger. She anticipates his reception might be chilly, but what she doesn't expect is to become the victim of a deadly obsession … or that this night with Bridger could be her last.

Bridger Jansen tangled a lot of sheets trying to forget about Laney, but his heart knew what the rest of him refused to admit: he could love no one else. He's determined not to forgive her for leaving him without explanation, but when he fails to protect her from a viscous attack, the person he can't forgive just might be himself.

*Available now for only $1.50 from Noble Romance*

Where can readers connect with you?

A- WEBSITE http://www.sarahballance.com/

BLOG http://sarahballance.wordpress.com/

AMAZON http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B003WKYEJI

TWITTER http://twitter.com/#!/SarahBallance

FACEBOOK FAN http://www.facebook.com/sarah.ballance.author.news

FACEBOOK FRIEND http://www.facebook.com/author.sarah.ballance

GOODREADS http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4103362.Sarah_Ballance

If anyone is inclined to join me on my blog, I'd like to let you know I offer a weekly giveaway for **email subscribers** only. Every week random.org chooses one winner, who receives their choice of a $10 gift certificate to Noble Romance or $5 to Amazon. The only way to enter is to subscribe, and you'll be automatically entered each week for as long as you remain a subscriber. You'll also be the first to find out about my many other giveaways, so I hope to see you there!

Thanks so much for hosting me, Ella. It's a pleasure to hang out with a fellow Noble Romance author and her awesome fans. ;c)

It was my pleasure. Stop back soon:)

The Steeple Town Series

2012-03-08T09:55:00.000-08:00

I've been quiet for a few days, well in front of the camera, anyway, but behind the scenes I've been my normal busy self.

I just completed the final read through on Crossfire of Love. My contemporary, erotic romance is set to release on March 19, 2012. We're almost there!

I've also turned in book one of my very first series. Why a series? As a reader, I enjoy them, but as a writer, I had never really given it much thought. Even when I started the first book, A Love Stolen, I didn't necessarily see it as a series until I realized the three female friends in the book all needed to find love. I wanted to tell their stories.

The three novellas take place in the fictional town of Steeple, Mass. The reader gets a peek into the lives of three best friends (Lila, Cali and Jenson) who are all very different in personality,

but are always there for one another.

The thing I enjoyed about creating these stories was the fact that as I move from story to story, I get to revisit the couples I've developed. As a reader, you are focusing on one story at a time, but you're able to see what the women are doing at that particular point in time. The books can be read out of order as they all stand alone, but they clearly connect to one another.

In A Love Stolen, we meet Lila and Trevor. Their beginning started out somewhat tragic and Lila ends up leaving Steeple. Six years later she returns to her hometown, her friends and Trevor. Can they find a way to rekindle their flame or where they nothing more than high school sweethearts?

Hopefully I'll have some news to share on this novella real soon;)

I'm halfway through book two and I've outlined book three.

A Love Discovered is Cali's story. Cali is the wild child of the group, but can an older, reclusive professor tame her?

A Love Unexpected is Jenson's story. She's the straight-laced girl of the trio, but what happens when she agrees to a one-night stand?

So, there we are. Three novellas, three women and three different stories. I hope you'll get lost in my words and identify with these girls as they find their HEA.

Stay tuned for details...

Meet The Author... Donna Del Oro

2012-03-06T04:39:00.000-08:00

Donna Del Oro spent her childhood in two places, Silicon Valley, CA and the countryside of East Texas, as her father tried several job opportunities. Finally settling in Silicon Valley, she grew up in a bilingual, bicultural world--Spanish on her mother's side and English on her father's. Comfortable in both worlds, she decided upon retiring from teaching to write about her Hispanic side. Four women's fiction books resulted and a series about professional singers, their careers and love lives. Retired and devoting much of her abundant free time to exercise, writing, singing and her grandson, Donna has finally reached a point in life that totally satisfies her. Life is good and she has no complaints, just a lot of gratitude for her many blessings.

***

What motivates Donna Del Oro the author? Why do you write?

Characters in my head want their stories to be told. Certainly, money doesn’t motivate me. Also, the need to be creative keeps me going.

When did you know you were a writer? Was it always your destiny or did you stumble upon your craft by accident?

I was thirteen and began creating my own comic strips.

What is your favorite genre to write and why?

I love the thriller genre because that’s the kind of book I love to read. Love all kinds of thrillers.

Is there a particular genre you haven't tried but what like to? What is it and why?

No. The romantic thriller is where I am right now and where I want to be in the foreseeable future.

How did you get into eBook publishing?

When I saw that eBook publishers paid more in royalties, I decided to give it a try. Also, I didn’t want an agent telling me what/how to write in order to conform to the “current market place.”

How many hours a day do you devote to writing? Do you have a set routine or do you write when the mood strikes?

This year, I have three books coming out and all my time has been spent promoting. Frankly—no offense intended--I hate this aspect of the business.

Is there a certain aspect of the story you begin with? Do you create the characters first or do you come up with the plot?

For my thrillers, I usually begin with an idea or theme that I want to convey in my story. The story and characters emerge from that theme. Like “Justice has a long memory” for my spy thriller, A BODYGUARD OF LIES, my recent release.

Tell us about the most intriguing character you've created.

Athena, my gifted clairvoyant in THE DELPHI BLOODLINE.

Who is your favorite author? And, if given the opportunity to meet them, what would you ask them?

Daniel Silva, the author of spy thrillers. I’d ask him, “What inspires you?”

What did you do when you found out your first book had been contracted?

I was happy, of course, but my print publisher turned out to be a shyster.

Has there been a person or influence in your life that has helped you reach your writing goals?

You can say, my sisters have been very supportive of my authorship. My husband, too, and my son and daughter.

Do you have any words of inspiration to aspiring authors? What advice would you offer a writer trying to publish?

Don’t let rejections get you down. Develop a rhinoceros hide, or get out of this business. And keep your day job.

Tell us about your current release.

A BODYGUARD OF LIES (release: Jan. 13^th, MUSA Publishing)

Lady Justice has a long memory as FBI analyst Jake Bernstein investigates a suspected Nazi spy wanted for war crimes.

A BODYGUARD OF LIES is a riveting blend of romantic thriller, mystery and WWII espionage. A Jewish-American FBI analyst, Jake Bernstein, is recruited by MI-5 to go undercover and investigate a naturalized American grandmother. The elderly woman is suspected by MI-5 of being a notorious Nazi spy wanted for war crimes. Jake Bernstein runs into a series of complications: This spy knows a secret that could endanger the British royal family; his attraction to the old woman’s beautiful granddaughter; an Irish, neo-Nazi group tries to kill him; and all the while, a clever, cagey old woman stands in the way of justice.

Buy Link:available on www.musapublishing.com, Amazon.com/Kindlebookstore, bnn.com, iPad bookstore

Do you have any upcoming projects in the works?

I’ll be writing a sequel to A BODYGUARD OF LIES and a sequel to my paranormal thriller, THE DELPHI BLOODLINE, coming out May 25 from Musa Publishing

Where can readers connect with you?

I love to hear from readers and fans. They can check out my website at:

http://www.donnadeloro.com/

or write me at:

donna@donnadeloro.com

At The Beach Part 8

2012-03-05T05:47:00.000-08:00

I know I'm a little late. I apologize to those of you who were waiting on me.

You know the drill... if you've missed Parts 1-7 click here to get the story in its entirety.

Waves of Change Final Installment

***CONTAINS ADULT CONTENT***

Cody removed her panties, stood up from the couch and reached into his pocket.

Thank God he came prepared.

Ally watched through lust filled eyes as he rid himself of his remaining clothes and skillfully rolled the condom into place. She wondered how many times he'd done this.

Did it really matter?

She spread her legs, preparing to receive him as he lowered himself onto her. His body was warm and strong. She moved her hands down his backside and over his rock hard thighs. As he pressed his lips to hers, he entered her with a tenderness she hadn't expected. His actions were affectionate and slow. It was nice.

"You're so beautiful," he whispered against her lips. "Perfect."

Ally wrapped her legs around his waist and moved her hips to the rhythm of his thrusts. She was more impatient than she'd thought she would be in this moment. She could feel the heaviness building in her stomach again.

So soon?

Her muscles tensed as she looked up at his stunning face. He smiled down at her.

"Again?" He looked awfully proud of himself. "I could make you come all night."

"Please!" Ally screamed out her release as she clamped down on him. Before she realized what was happening, Cody pulled out of her, flipped her onto her stomach and re-entered her. He wasn't as gentle this time, but Ally didn't care.

He sat up on his knees and pulled her to him, gripping her hips and pushing as far as her body would allow. Each time he was fully sheathed, he'd pull all the way out and slam back in. It was delicious.

"You're so tight." He squeezed her hips.

Ally reached for the arm of the sofa, closed her eyes and allowed herself to indulge in the feeling of him. Her body was slick with sweat, and she could smell the mixed aroma of her arousal and his bodywash. It was intoxicating. As he continued to move in and out of her she gripped the armrest and let go a third time.

Mind blowing…

"Hell, woman, you're good for my ego." She felt his body go rigid as he stilled inside her. "Ally…" Her name was the last words that spilled from his lips before releasing.

He collapsed onto her back, breathing against her neck. "That was, um, yeah…"

She giggled. The sound was so foreign to her because she couldn't remember the last time she'd laughed.

"Did I persuade you?" he asked.

"To model for you?"

"I want to paint you. I have to paint you." Cody grabbed a tissue from the coffee table and took care of the condom. He moved back onto the couch and pulled her into his arms. "You're all I think about."

She smiled over the irony.

"Please don't think I'm crazy." He pressed her into his side. "I didn't come here for this, but I'm glad it happened."

"Me too," Ally said. "I've never done anything like this before."

"Think of the sessions we could have at my studio." He ran his long, slender finger down her arm. "Just the two of us. I could paint and then when I'm finished we could explore one another."

"Hmm." She closed her eyes, getting lost in his touch. This was a feeling she could get used to.

"I need to learn every inch of you if the portrait is going to be realistic."

"I'll need you to return the favor." She turned to face him, working up the courage to tell him about her latest project.

"You want to paint me?" She saw the amused look in his eyes.

"I've already started." She got up and reached for the blanket to cover herself, but he stopped her.

"No time for modesty." He smirked. "I like you naked."

She bit her lip, feeling the heat spread down her body and land between her thighs. She wanted him again but his voice pulled her back to reality.

"What do you mean you've already started?"

She got up, took a deep breath and took her time walking over to the painting in the corner of the room. "You might think I'm a stalker after you see this." She pulled the sheet back to reveal his stunning blue eyes staring back at them.

"No way." He got up and walked over to the canvas. "This is why you've been sketching me when I work out every morning."

"You knew?" She was mortified.

"What else would you be doing down at the beach every day with that sketch pad?" He pulled her against his chest. "I like when you watch me. I'm flattered."

She placed her head on his shoulder. "I feel like an idiot."

"Hey, I wanted to paint you too." He tilted her chin up and looked into her eyes. "Don't be embarrassed."

"But you had the decency to knock on my door and ask."

"I may have gone about it a little unconventionally, too." He ran the back of his hand over her breasts. "I was here all of ten minutes and I had your clothes off."

"I didn’t argue." She pressed her lips to his mouth before working her way down his chest and stomach. "Maybe it's my turn to explore."

He tangled his fingers in her hair and guided her down to her knees. "All in the name of art."

"Exactly." She looked up at him and smiled.

The End

***

Thanks for getting lost in my words.

Ella

xoxo

Make Me Stay... Contracted!

2012-02-28T18:21:00.000-08:00

I'm thrilled to announce my newest novella, Make Me Stay, has been contracted by Beachwalk Press.

Make Me Stay is a 20k novella with BDSM themes, but the romance is front and center throughout. This will mark my third novel with D/s undertones, so I wanted to switch things up this time and come up with a different take on the popular genre.

Here's the premise...

Can the submissive teach the Dominant how to play?

***
As soon as I have release details and a cover I'll post here. I can't wait to share this one.

Ella

xoxo

Meet The Author... Desi Moon

2012-02-28T05:40:00.006-08:00

Hello Ella! Thank you for inviting me over for a visit!

Thanks for joining us. We're thrilled to have you here today.

***

Hi Readers! My name is Desi Moon- I am a writer, dog trainer (Almost all of my stories have at least one dog mentioned) and a Project Runway junkie.

I am living the fractured fairy tale with my wonderful husband Eben, who is a board game designer and a writer as well (Helps to have another creative neurotic in the house)

My family includes two great kids who keep me on my toes (mentally and physically) three entitled cats, and one issue plagued but none the less loveable.

***

When did you know you were a writer?

For as long as I can remember! I was the freak in fifth grade who asked for the extra credit assignments. The “punishment” was to get a photocopy of a piece of famous artwork and write a short story about it. I loved creating worlds out of Renoir, Monet, my favorite is still Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’.

Was it always your destiny or did you stumble upon your craft by accident?

Both! In high school I entered writing contests and indulged in my “hobby”. My parents never encouraged my writing instead steering me toward a more stable profession. It wasn’t until my husband said, “Just do it! What is the worst that can happen?” that I turned my “hobby” into a job.

What is your favorite genre to write and why?

Oh—UM, well love is love whether it is m/f, m/m, f/f. I merely take dictation from my characters. I tried to write erotica a couple times but it just wasn’t happening, so I am forever branded as a “sweet” romance author.

Is there a particular genre you haven't tried but what like to?

The beauty of the romance genre is all the sub genres. I have written contemporary romance, romantic mystery and even tried my hand at a time traveling sci-fi (That was interesting seeing as I don’t read sci-fi, but like I said, I merely take dictation from the voices in my head.)

How many hours a day do you devote to writing?

I strive for at least four hours in the afternoon, if I can get more in all the better

Do you have a set routine or do you write when the mood strikes?

Oh I have to stick to routine, it is not pretty if I wait for the mood to strike

Is there a certain aspect of the story you begin with?

I start at the beginning and work through to the end, I often have to double back when my characters throw little surprises at me, but it is too confusing for me to jump around in a story.

Do you create the characters first or do you come up with the plot?

Characters first, ALWAYS! They are the ones who come to me and start whispering in my ear, telling me their story.

Tell us about the most intriguing character you've created.

Oh- gosh- they all have their own special qualities. Some of them are based on me, some of them based on people in my life. The one that is pure fabrication (Sorry, hun but it is true) is Aunt Genie from Summerland. She is a no nonsense, loveable, nosy, sweet, bossy aunt that anybody would love to have in their life. And she rocks a turban like no one’s business!

What did you do when you found out your first book had been contracted?

Once the shock wore off and I stopped questioning whether the acquisitions editor got my manuscript confused with someone else’s??? I began to call myself a writer.

Has there been a person or influence in your life that has helped you reach your writing goals?

My husband is my biggest fan and loudest cheerleader. He understands my withdrawn state at the dinner table while I write passages in my head, and brings me a glass of Bailey’s over ice when I have writer’s block.

Do you have any words of inspiration to aspiring authors?

Stay true to yourself, don’t ever compromise for the sake of publication.

What advice would you offer a writer trying to publish?

Don’t give up! All bestselling authors have all felt the sting of rejection at the beginning.

Accidental Intent will be available March 17^th through Rebel Ink Press.

It is my first foray into the romantic mystery world.

Blurb:

The most exciting thing to happen to Lucy recently is the new flavor of coffee at the Howling Moon Cafe, but when her best friend stumbles upon a dead body, a new coffee is the least of Lucy’s concerns.

The seemingly quiet life that Lucy has grown to love unravels the moment her on again/off again lover begins to imagine a relationship that doesn’t exist. It grows even more complicated when she meets Nicolai Petrovski, a handsome detective who makes her blood boil, her knees weak, and her fingers itch to grab a fistful of jet-black hair.

When Lucy finds her name on the killer’s short list of victims, her first concern is for her furry four- legged family. Her second is for the closely guarded secret hidden in the back of her closet.

Between conference calls and coffee dates with her best friends, Lucy wades through the complicated world of love, honor, betrayal and the allure of a very hot man. But is there enough coffee to keep her one step ahead of the killer and as far away from Nicolai as she can get?

Do you have any upcoming projects in the works?

I am working on another contemporary romantic comedy tentatively titled Countdown, but it has been renamed several times.

Where can readers connect with you?

I lurk everywhere!!!!!

My Blog: http://dbmoonauthor.blogspot.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Desi-DB-Moon/151133504946130

Twitter: @DBMoonbook

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5097815

You Tube Book Trailers: http://www.youtube.com/user/DBMoonbook?feature=guide

Just to name a few J

***

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Crossfire of Love... Releases 3/19

2012-02-26T09:01:00.000-08:00

Release day is almost here! I've been booking guest blog spots, answering interview questions and writing guests posts in preparation for my March 19, 2012 release of Crossfire of Love.

I thought today I'd share a little excerpt from the book. I hope you enjoy:)

Can an arranged marriage lead to love?

Lorenzo is charming, protective and loyal to his crime lord father Carlo. When Carlo asks Lorenzo to marry Gabriella he jumps at the opportunity. He's been drawn to her for many years and knows by marrying her, he's helping to protect her father.

Gabby is resentful and won't be Lorenzo's charity case. Sparks fly and the couple soon gives into their desire realizing they were meant to be together. What happens when Carlo's enemies threaten their future? Will someone get caught in the crossfire?

Excerpt

Lorenzo walked up the porch steps, turning to stare at Gabby. “Are you coming, Gabriella?” No one but Lorenzo and his father called her by her full name. She liked when Lorenzo said it. He’d always made it sound so formal and sexy.

These were the first words he had spoken to her since they left the court house. They were married in the chambers of the prestigious Judge John Cartwright. He’d been a family friend of the Martinez’s for many years. He was their go to man whenever they needed something done fast and legally. Well, legal in her new father-in-law's eyes anyway.

She hurried up the steps and followed him inside their new home. It was built within a matter of months after she’d agreed to marry Lorenzo. Carlo wanted them to have their privacy, but he’d also wanted to keep them close. He didn’t trust she’d hold up her end of the bargain and keeping her on the property was the best way to insure she wouldn’t run.

It was silly, really. How could she run from a family like this? They had ties all over the world. There wasn’t any place she could escape to that they wouldn’t know about. She was a woman of her word. She said she would marry Lorenzo and she did. She’d find a way to cope. She always had.

Lorenzo pulled his jacket off, poured himself a scotch and then loosened his tie.

“Would you like a drink?”

“No, thank you,” she said.

Most brides would be dancing the night away and drinking champagne by this point in their wedding night. She didn’t think that was part of Lorenzo’s plan.

“I didn’t think you’d go through with it.” He sipped the amber colored liquid as he looked her over.

“I said I would.”

“I know, but when push actually came to shove, I thought you’d run.”

“You don’t know me that well,” she said. “I don’t run.”

“Good.” He smirked as he put the glass to his lips.

Gabby couldn’t take her eyes away from those lips. She’d never had the pleasure of having them on her own. Judge Cartwright hadn’t asked him to kiss his bride. She hated herself for thinking about Lorenzo that way.

***

I can't wait to show you how these two progress;)

Meet the Author... T.D. Jones

2012-02-22T04:23:00.000-08:00

What motivates T.D. Jones the author? Why do you write?

Readers motivate me. I want to produce something that they will go away and say, “That was the best book ever.”

Writing to me is a way I can talk with my heart. It speaks when I can’t say what I want to say. I love books. I love the smell of libraries when you walk in the door, always have.

When did you know you were a writer? Was it always your destiny or did you stumble upon your craft by accident?

I really think it was in my destiny due to I have thought about it and did ‘closet writing’ forever. But then when I started getting closer to around 48 I said either do it or give up that dream and move it. Once I decided that it was like I gave myself permission to write and make mistakes and just keep trying till it happened.

What is your favorite genre to write and why?

I love family drama with humor and romance always plays a part in there somewhere. I think I like knowing that people aren’t perfect and there is love out for there for everyone.

How did you get into eBook publishing?

I wrote my first book Hot Days and Melange-books gave me a chance. I really didn’t even know about e-books till then. But now it has opened up a whole new world. I love my kindle and think everyone should own one.

How many hours a day do you devote to writing? Do you have a set routine or do you write when the mood strikes?

I work at a hospital full time so I write at night and most of my weekend are devoted to some writing. I don’t have any kids at home so that helps a lot.

Tell us about the most intriguing character you've created.

I love Sheriff Will Tanner from Cockeyed Cowboy. He’s thinks like a man and what women doesn’t love to think for their man!

Who is your favorite author? And, if given the opportunity to meet them, what would you ask them?

Right now it Janet Evanovich. I love her humor. That humor has to come from somewhere within her so I think she would be a hoot to hang out with.

What did you do when you found out your first book had been contracted?

I was ironing my scrubs for work and when I saw the e-mail, I read it and cried. I nearly burnt my scrubs due to I was e-mailing the publisher back asking to make sure she had the right person.

Has there been a person or influence in your life that has helped you reach your writing goals?

My Aunt Hazel. She is my muse. She says the craziest stuff that makes me think ‘what if’

Do you have any words of inspiration to aspiring authors? What advice would you offer a writer trying to publish?

Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. I’m a firm believer in the power of vision. If you can vision yourself writing a book, then you can do it. It’s hard work and there will be times when you want to give up but if you really are meant to be a published author it will happen.

Tell us about your current release.

Coming Up For Air is a sweet romance about Maggie Dawson and Kevin Walker.

Maggie Dawson was left at the altar at the young age of eighteen. Now years later Kevin Walker is back in town and Maggie’s life is turned upside down. She is determined not to fall in love with this guy for a second time. He broke her heart once, she is not letting him do it again or is she?

Kevin Walker comes back to Clover, Texas to sell the family ranch and never expects to run into Maggie, who is now the town doctor. He starts to fall in love with her again, but will she let him in?

Maggie always had a secret thought deep down in her heart that someday Kevin would come back to her. He would say he was sorry for leaving, and everything would be wonderful. They would live happily ever after like in the fairy tales. Never in the fairy tale did she dream that her prince would come back to town, and bring his pregnant fiancée with him.

Buy Link: www.XoXoPublishing.com

Also on Amazon soon.

Do you have any upcoming projects in the works?

I have Salem’s World and Wrangled Hearts and Dangerous Game coming up pretty much back to back starting in March.

Where can readers connect with you?

Jonestd17@yahoo.com

www.tdjones.weebly.com

www.writingonthego.blogspot.com

www.twitter.com/TDJones5

facebook-TD Jones-Author

Thanks for having me.

***

Thanks for taking the time to join us. Good luck with the upcoming releases.

Hot Bods Series by Lacey Wolfe

2012-02-21T04:51:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Beachwalk Press released the second novella in Lacey Wolfe's Hot Bod series. If you haven't checked out this series yet, get a move on. The first two books are out and the third is scheduled to release in June. I'm told (on good authority) there is one more to come.

The books revolve around the lives of four women who meet up at the Hot Bods gym. Each novella tells the story of one of the characters finding true love. I've read the first two and simply adored them. The series is creative, hot, steamy, and will keep you intrigued enough to want to read the next story. It doesn't matter which one you pick up first either. They all stand alone.

More Than Useful

Can she settle for just a little fun?

Every Tuesday and Thursday morning Adam stops by Amy's bakery for one of her delicious muffins…and a little flirting. When he finally asks her out, Amy is thrilled.

Adam informs her from the beginning that he isn't looking for anything serious. Just a little fun. Amy agrees, even though she isn't entirely sure that's what she wants.

She does her best to play it cool, but Adam is sending so many mixed signals he's confusing her, which she finds incredibly frustrating.

Adam is terrified by the feelings he's developing for Amy. It would be so much easier if he just backed away from her. Then there's his sister, who is insisting that Amy is not the right girl for him.

Will Adam be able to figure out what his heart desires before it's too late and he loses his chance at true happiness?

click here for an excerpt

Fool Me Once

Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice…

Drew is the last person Skylar wanted to see across from her at a local bar. A month ago he'd wined and dined her all weekend, leaving her feeling fully in love, but then she awoke alone in an empty hotel room and she hadn't heard from him since.

The weekend Drew spent with Skylar was phenomenal. There had never been anyone who made him feel as complete as she did. He shouldn't have disappeared, he should have called, but his feelings for her scared him, so he distanced himself. But when he saw her again, he knew he couldn't stay away any longer.

Skylar's determined not to give Drew another chance to hurt her, but he's just as determined to win her back. Although it won't be easy, he's up to the challenge, and he's willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish his goal.

click here for an excerpt

***

Stop by Lacey's blog and check out the cool "Thank You" giveaway she's doing for the next month!

http://www.laceywolfe.com/1/post/2012/02/thank-you-readers-give-away.html

Falling In Danger by Kaylie Newell

2012-02-20T06:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Release Day Kaylie!

I'm pleased to welcome my fellow Beachwalk Press Author Kaylie Newell to the blog. Her new novel Falling In Danger released with Beachwalk Press today.

***

Ella, thanks so much for having me! I’m pretty excited- My contemporary/romantic suspense, Falling In Danger releases today and it’s a book that I hope will keep readers turning the pages late into the night ;)

It’s about a young, naïve reporter who stumbles onto an illegal dog fighting organization in Los Angeles. Even though the ring is busted soon after, she can’t forget what she’s seen. She’s driven to do a story on the dogs who were left behind and the sexy detective who ended up saving them. In the process, she discovers layers of her heart she never knew existed.

This book is a special one for me, not only because I fell in love with my hero, Ian Cole while writing it (luckily my husband doesn’t mind sharing), but also because I’m a huge animal lover. My amazing publisher, Beachwalk Press, has agreed to donate 40% of the proceeds from Falling In Danger to The Pixie Project animal rescue in Portland, Oregon. It’s my hope that some animal lives, as well as some human ones, will be touched by this incredible gift.

Happy reading!

***

Excerpt

This way.” Fitz pulled her down another hallway until they reached a door at the end. She limped along, her arm rigid in his hand.

“What are you planning on doing to me?”

Fitz eyed her as he opened the door. “Come on.”

Jessica leaned to the side, looking directly down an obscure flight of stairs which led God knew where. “Down there?”

He didn’t answer, but tugged on her arm, taking the first step down.

She locked her knees in place, her one useless Jimmy Choo sliding maddeningly on the tile. “I’m not going down there.”

“Yes, you are.”

“No, I’m not.” Her voice cracked.

“Yes. You are.”

She yanked, but it was no use. He held tight.

Full-fledged alarm finally lit her up like a firecracker. She kicked and clawed, while strange noises escaped her throat. She was vaguely aware of an arm wrapping around her waist, even as she arched away, bucking like something wild.

“Stop it,” he hissed. “You’re only going to make it worse, do you understand me?”

In reply, she turned and sunk her teeth into his shoulder.

“Shiiiit!”

He snatched her up, this time not seeming to care if he hurt her in the process. Again, she was slung over his shoulder as he made his way down the staircase. She twisted around, desperately trying to get a look at what was waiting at the bottom. Her heart slammed in her chest, and she couldn’t catch her breath. Being upside down wasn’t helping. Where was a paper bag when you needed one?

Fitz slowed and reached over to switch on a light at the base of the staircase, never easing his grip off the back of her legs. A weak, yellow glow overtook the room, and she looked up, shoving her hair out of her eyes.

It was sparsely furnished, and dim. She peered into every corner, trying to make out the details. The tangy, sweet smell of marijuana made her nose wrinkle, as well as something else she couldn’t quite put her finger on. Something vaguely familiar…and unsettling.

“If I put you down, are you going to be a good girl?”

She gritted her teeth, and mumbled.

“All right then.” With that, he leaned over and deposited her into a heap on the floor.

Glaring up at him, she scrambled to her feet, too overcome with fear to stay where she was.

She looked around again, stepping closer to Fitz, not knowing what should scare her more; him, or whatever was in the room with her.

Then she heard the unmistakable sound of a chain dragging in the corner. She whipped around and took a step backward, bumping into the wall of a man behind her. She flinched at the feel of his skin on hers, but couldn’t move away.

“What was that?” Her voice was no more than a squeaky exhale of air.

“That?” He took her arm and pulled her away from the shadows she gaped at. “That was Bruta.”

You can purchase Falling In Danger at Beachwalk Press, Amazon and Barnes & Noble

At the Beach Part 7

2012-02-18T11:47:00.000-08:00

We're almost there. I can't believe its been seven weeks since I started this. If you've missed parts 1-6 you can click here to see what's been going on. Otherwise...

***CONTAINS ADULT CONTENT***

Ally thought she would come on the spot. She'd never been this aroused before.

How could this be happening?

Cody moved one hand up to the silky lingerie and tugged it down her body, revealing her breasts and stomach to him.

"Fuck," he whispered as he licked his lips. "Better than I imagined."

"You think about me like that?"

"All the time. I'm hard for you most of the day. It's very distracting." He pushed her down onto the couch, kicked off his shoes and moved on top of her.

He pulled at the teddy until he had it completely off, leaving Ally in nothing but a lacy, little thong. She could feel how much he desired her as he pressed his body against hers, moving his hardness against her center.

As she moved her hands down his back, he took her face between his hands and kissed her with a force she hadn't expected. He wasted no time moving his tongue inside her mouth to explore her. She liked the way his fresh stubble scraped against her jaw.

"I've wanted to kiss you for weeks," he breathlessly moaned.

She hiked her leg over his hip and moved into him. He trailed his lips down her neck, nipping and sucking as he worked his way down to her breasts. She twisted her fingers in his hair, arching her back to offer him more. As he gently bit down or her nipple, he slipped his fingers inside her panties, rubbing them along her moist slit.

She couldn't stop the noises of need that escaped her lips. Her stomach muscles were coiled so tightly and she knew all he would have to do was brush against her clit and she'd be a goner.

"Touch me," she said. "Please."

"You don't have to beg, gorgeous. I'll touch you all night."

She jerked her hips forward, causing his fingers to slip deep inside her. As he moved them in and out of her she rocked against him, setting an enjoyable pace. The pressure was building deep within her desperate body. The feel of his lips against her heated chest, the scent of his freshly washed hair and the way his fingers stroked her from the inside pushed her into sensory overload.

"Cody," she whispered. "I…oh…"

He continued to finger her, pressing his thumb against her clit. Her muscles tightened around him as she closed her eyes and let go. She was panting and sweating as he continued to move his fingers, allowing her time to come down.

She trembled beneath him. She should have felt relieved after such a powerful orgasm, but it only enhanced her intense state of arousal. She wanted more. She needed him to fill her as only he could.

As he placed soft kissed on her neck and jaw she reached down between them. He lifted his head and looked into her eyes. With that one look she knew he'd seen everything. She couldn't hide her hunger for him. There'd been too many weeks of dreaming, wanting, needing.

He slipped his hands down to her panties, stopping to look at her briefly. Perhaps he was seeking permission to continue.

She nodded. "I want this."

"Me too." He shot her the most stunning smile.

Yes, she'd definitely have to find away to incorporate that smile into her secret indulgence.

***

We have two more parts to go.

Waiting... not my favorite thing to do...

2012-02-17T18:20:00.000-08:00

I'm an impatient thing. I don't like to wait for anything. Not presents, not vacations, not the birth of my children.... and especially not manuscripts under consideration.

Yes, I know some things are out of my control. So, I thought I'd share my two latest submitted books. At least while I'm putting this blog post together I won't be stalking my in-box. :)

Make Me Stay

Contemporary Romance, BDSM, Erotic Novella

Gracie Miller is a natural submissive and she'd thought she'd found her other half in Cade Jameson. He'd helped her through a difficult time in her life. She was young and impressionable, but Cade knew her body. He tapped into her submissive side and brought her more pleasure than she could ever have imagined. They were perfect for one another. When he tells her it's over and asks her to leave she's devastated, but because she's obedient she does what he asks her to do.

The story begins two and a half years later when Gracie returns a new woman. She disappeared to the city and found a "Master" who showed her what she was truly capable of. Now she's back and wants to show Cade exactly what kind of submissive she could be for him.

***

A Love Stolen

Book One - Steeple Town Series

Lila Crofton flees the town of Steeple when she learns of her boyfriend Trevor Matheson's betrayal. The young lovers are thrown a major obstacle in their relationship and Lila won't stick around and watch the only man she loves move on with another.

Six years later, Sheriff Trevor Matheson is going through a divorce and trying to pick up the pieces of his life. When his high school sweetheart Lila returns to Steeple to bury her father, Trevor sees it as a sign of fate. He's getting over a failed marriage and she's grieving the loss of her dad. They need one another.

Can the two overcome the ghosts of their past and rekindle a love lost. Is there a second chance in their future or is their stolen love gone forever?

This series is a collection of three novellas set in the fictional town of Steeple. It follows three friends as each find Mr. Right.

***

I'll keep you posted. When I know, you'll know. In the meantime, I guess I better start writing. The best way to keep your mind off waiting for an answer is to start the next creation.

"Like sands through the hourglass, so are the days of our lives."

More Winners...

2012-02-16T14:18:00.000-08:00

This has been the week of giveaways. I love it.

Thanks for stopping by and sharing your sexy with me. I appreciate all the comments:)

The winner of the signed Love, Again Anthology is...

Deb P.

And, the eBook edition goes to...

Cheyrl lmk

Congrats and thanks. You'll be hearing from me shortly.

Ella

xoxo

And the winner is...

2012-02-15T11:19:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of you who participated in the blog hop. I hope you had a blast hopping from blog to blog.

I LOVED reading all of you comments. I was pretty good about replying back, but as the hop progressed, the comments increased and I got behind. Please know I did read each and every one and I appreciate your wishes:)

I'd like to congratulate my two winners. They'll each receive an Amazon GC from me very shortly.

Patricia (Celtic Amazon)

and

Julie Lynn

You've each received an e-mail from me confirming your email addresses.

Thanks again to all who commented.

Ella

xoxo

Signed Anthology from Ella Jade... Two Prizes Up for Grabs!

2012-02-13T18:33:00.000-08:00

The Love Again Anthology releases today! My short story Home as well as six other stories are being featured in this sweet, sexy and erotic collection. It's available in both eBook and print! You can also find it on Amazon.

Would you like a chance to win a signed copy from little old me? All you have to do is leave a comment telling me what you find sexy. It can be anything.

Home

Dr. Chase Avery has worked hard to give his high school sweetheart and love of his life Elyse Jacobs the life she deserves, but in working toward their happily ever after, he missed out on the important things in life.

Six months after she leaves, Chase finds himself alone and overworked, dealing with the mistakes of the past.

When Elyse shows up unexpectedly on Valentine’s Day, can an old flame be rekindled or is it nothing more than one last night of passion?

***

So, what do you find sexy? Tell me in the comment section. Please be sure to leave your e-mail addy so I can contact you. I'll select a random winner and announce it here on Thursday, February 16, 2012.

But wait...there's more. I'll select a second winner to receive an eBook copy of the anthology.

I hope you have a wonderful day!

1st Prize - Signed Print Copy

2nd Prize - eBook Version

All entrants must be at least 18 years old to participate. By entering this contest you are stating you are 18+. Contest is open to international residents as well.

Meet The Author ... Anne Holly

2012-02-13T04:46:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for the With Love Valentine Blog Hop Post Please Click Here.

Today we have author Anne Holly joining us. She's here to talk about her new Valentine's Day themed release...

What motivates Anne Holly the author? Why do you write?

It might sound cliché, but I honestly write because I have to. I’ve written or told stories since I was a child, because I have an over-active imagination. It’s fun, and relaxing, and it’s something I do for myself. Now, as to why I publish… Sometimes, not even I can explain why I go through that stage, but I think it’s mainly because I felt ready to start sharing the things I write. I love the romance community, and I am pleased to give something back, be it ever so humble.

When did you know you were a writer? Was it always your destiny or did you stumble upon your craft by accident?

I used to just write for fun, and didn’t think much of it. It was a hobby, and my favourite type of school assignments. It wasn’t until the eighth grade, when an English teacher who was also an author, suggested to me that I start thinking seriously about it. Before then, I don’t think I had any idea of publishing what I wrote. Teachers can change lives! What a wonderful thing.

What is your favorite genre to write and why?

I love contemporary romance as a reader and as a writer, because I find those stories resonate most with me. My erotic romance is more or less an extension of my contemporary writing, in that it deals with realistic lives – but a bit naughtier than my sensual works, which is a lot of fun. But writing in all sorts of genres can be great. Paranormal is fantastic for the imagination, and it’s good to be released from the everyday once in a while.

How did you get into eBook publishing?

Mostly because I wasn’t sure if I wanted to take the years it generally takes to find a reliable agent, especially since there aren’t many agents handling romance writers in

Canada

at the moment. Most ebook publishers don’t require agents, so once I discovered that, I was off! I love paperbacks, as well, but ebooks offers an alternative to the traditional route, and I appreciate the option.

How many hours a day do you devote to writing? Do you have a set routine or do you write when the mood strikes?

I don’t really have a set amount of time. I try to do my 1k of fresh writing, which is about 40 minutes to an hour, plus whatever time I need to devote to editing or outlining at the time. Because I have a three year old, I write whenever I get the chance, but after he goes to bed or before he wakes up, especially the latter, are my favourite windows of opportunity.

Tell us about the most intriguing character you've created.

This is a hard question! I try to make them all compelling or interesting. But, as a reader, I’d have to say there are a couple heroes that really stand out and one heroine who I still find intriguing, even after writing them. My favourite would likely be Kale, my hero from Unwrapping Scrooge. He marches to his own drum, which I appreciate, and he’s a writer – I love books with writers in them!

Who is your favorite author? And, if given the opportunity to meet them, what would you ask them?

My favourite romance writer is LaVyrle Spencer. It’s because of her that I started writing romance, actually. Her stories just glow. It’s hard to explain that, but there’s an inner warmth that seems to welcome me in, and I love that. I become so emotionally connected to her books. If I ever met her, I might not be able to say anything, I admit, but if I found my courage I’d love to know what it was like for her when she was starting out, before she got famous. It’s helpful to remember that all the Big Writers were Little Writers at one point, and I’d be inspired to hear her version.

What did you do when you found out your first book had been contracted?

I just sat there for a while. Then I started digging even more into the publisher, I admit. I did research before submitting, but once it became real I wanted to know who I was dealing with before I signed anything. I confess there was an element of, “Perhaps they accepted me because they aren’t very good,” but I found nothing alarming, and they seemed to be a healthy young publisher, so I went with it. I’m glad I found the bravery to believe it was happening. I seriously expected rejection.

Once I got over all that, though, I nearly busted with happiness, naturally. It was a lifelong dream-come-true.

Has there been a person or influence in your life that has helped you reach your writing goals?

I can’t give enough credit to my publishers, editors and fellow writers. Without them, I might have just published that one novel and left it at that, which was the original plan – or, rather, I didn’t think beyond that one book. It’s because of the friendly romance community that I stuck with it.

Do you have any words of inspiration to aspiring authors? What advice would you offer a writer trying to publish?

Write, write, write. Bum in seat, hands on keyboard (or pen). Just write. You might not have anything you’re happy with until you have a dozen novels done, so just keep practicing. Also, read as much as you can. All writers need to be very well read. As to writers starting out in publishing, the best advice I can offer is research the people to whom you will be entrusting your work. Don’t let gratitude over an acceptance cloud your judgment. Make sure you’re publishing with someone trustworthy and of good quality. You owe your book that.

Tell us about your current release.

The book I am promoting this month is an erotic romantic comedy, V-Day, which is the Valentine’s Day installment in my Rebel Ink Press holiday series.

V-Day

It all started with a serenade…

A family like Daniel’s and the solitary pursuit of musical excellence is enough to make a young man crazy. No wonder all Daniel Vouks dreams of is getting away. He knows his violin will take him places in life, but the only place he really wants to be is next door. He’s been in love with his neighbor since he was fourteen, but can he ever make her see him as more than just a lovesick kid?V-Day is the story of a Valentine's Day weekend Daniel fears he may regret, but will never, ever forget.

Buy Link:

For more information about my Valentine’s Day erotic romantic comedy, V-Day, please see my holiday stories website: http://annehollyholiday.webs.com/valentinesdaytales.htm

Do you have any upcoming projects in the works?

This summer, Pink Petal Books will release my second contemporary romance novel, Textbook Romance, in ebook, with a paperback coming after in the fall. It centers around two single parents connected through a university – one willing to take a chance and make the leap of faith, and one completely anti-romance. She’s even written a book on why romance is killing us!

Where can readers connect with you?

I have a blog and a website, but I’m most present on Facebook and Twitter. I love to hear from writers, readers, and all varieties of book people!

Anne Holly is a Canadian writer of romance and erotic-romance, as well as a mother and teacher. You may visit Anne at her blog or website, or find her on GoodReads, Facebook and Twitter (@anneholly2010). Sign up for her newsletter here. Email: anneholly2010@gmail.com.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Valentine's Day ... With Love

2012-02-10T20:22:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my blog. Thanks so much for stopping by. I know you have lots of fun stops to make, so I'll get right down to business. Two lucky winners will have the opportunity to win $10 Amazon GC's from me this weekend.

This Tuesday I'll be celebrating the release of my short story Home. It's being included in the Love, Again Anthology. It'll be available in eBook and print. The theme of this anthology is finding a lost love.

Six months after she leaves, Chase finds himself alone and overworked, dealing with the mistakes of the past.

When Elyse shows up unexpectedly on Valentine’s Day, can an old flame be rekindled or is it nothing more than one last night of passion?

***

Leave me a comment with your e-mail address and I'll enter you into a random drawing for the Amazon GC. How ever you spend your heart day, I wish you love and happiness.

Ella

xoxo

Be sure to check out all the amazing stops this weekend.

http://thebloghopspot.com/event-page/

At the Beach Part 6

2012-02-10T05:02:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday!

I usually post on Sunday, but since I'm participating in the Valentine's Day Blog hop this weekend I decided to post today. If you missed parts 1-5 you can click here to see what's going on.

So, on with the show...

Ally's head spun as Cody continued to stroke her skin with the soft pads of his fingertips. Rationally this was crazy. She didn’t even know him. But, in that moment she couldn't bring herself to care.

"You're beautiful." He ran the back of his hand gently over her right breast. Her nipple immediately responded to his touch as it pebbled under the thin, silk of her nightie.

The way he studied her was just like she had observed him. She watched as his mind committed every feature of her body to memory. It was erotic the way they both detailed one another for the same purpose. Their eyes couldn't get enough of the perfection in front of them.

She had fantasized about being this close to him; this intimate. Before she let reality set in, she wanted to make this last a little longer. She reached for the buttons of his shirt and quickly undid them allowing her hands to move over the hardness of his chest.

"You use touch to help you remember too."

She nodded because she knew exactly what he meant. She could visualize all she wanted, but actually being able to touch him was helping her to see the finished product in the picture.

"I've been watching you from a distance for weeks trying to figure out how I was going to touch you," he said. "I've sketched you, but I needed a closer look."

"Do you want to touch more of my body?" Ally whispered as she pushed his shirt from his shoulders. "To help you visualize?"

She had no idea what had gotten into her. Her inhibitions were never so low. She loved her husband and they'd had great sex, but this was different. She'd never felt anything like this before. Her body shook with need as she felt the warm juices of her arousal seep from her panties.

He leaned forward, slowly slipping the straps of her teddy down her shoulders and letting them dangle on either side of her arms. The tops of her breasts were exposed to him and she was certain he could see the faint rose color of her nipples peeking out just where the material stopped.

He moved his hands down to her hips and snaked his fingers under her nightgown, stopping just where the elastic met her thighs.

She sucked in a breath and waited for him to move. She was so wet for him and she wanted him to know. She gripped his muscular biceps and pulled him as close to her as possible.

"When you pose for me." He pressed his lips against her jaw, working his way to her ear. "You'll be completely naked."

***

Is it hot in here?

Have a wonderful weekend!

Ella

Be sure to stop back on Saturday. I'm giving away Amazon GC's on the Valentine's Day Blog Hop.

Meet the Author... Samara King

2012-02-08T18:37:00.000-08:00

What motivates Samara King the author? Why do you write?

I am motivated by wanting to build a world of escapism mixed with a bit of reality for readers I love creating characters and seeing what trouble I can get them in.

When did you know you were a writer? Was it always your destiny or did you stumble upon your craft by accident?

I have to say that I stumbled into it, I think writing fiction was something I was always supposed to do. I knew I was a writer when that elated feeling of having created a scene with characters you’ve drawn out of your imagination popped.

What is your favorite genre to write and why?

Romance fiction with an element of suspense, I love the heightened element of “what if’s.”

How many hours a day do you devote to writing? Do you have a set routine or do you write when the mood strikes?

I don’t write every day, more like every other day and in hour segments.

What did you do when you found out your first book had been contracted?

I cried, it was a moment of achievement that I’m sure other authors have felt.

Tell us about your current release. My current release is Black Honey, in the SK MINIS Undressed Inc. anthology, in which the heroine Elle Taylor’s world is rocked when she discovers a notorious druglord is her father and in the process crosses paths with her ex-lover Durant Kane.

Blurb: BLACK HONEY by Samara King

Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/UNDRESSED-INC-SK-MINIS-ebook/dp/B00677KE24/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_7

Who could she run to?

When Officer Elisha “Elle” Taylor finds out crime lord Monty “Black” Kearns was her father, there is only one man she can turn to in the midst of a deadly plot for revenge. The very man she’d sworn never to touch again. Durant Kane.
Leaning on her father's enforcer and her ex-lover seemed suicidal when the hit on her father was said to be ordered by his own people. Yet, the impulsive and heady sexual chemistry between them was undeniable.

Do you have any upcoming projects in the works?

Yes, I have a short Valentine’s Day story coming up, Wicked Valentine, as well as Black Honey II: Sweeter Than This, will be released in the new SK MINIs series, Dip Me In Chocolate

Where can readers connect with you?

My website: http://samaraking.com/

***

Thanks for joining us today.

Meet The Author... Sharon K. Owen

2012-02-07T07:26:00.000-08:00

Today I'm pleased to welcome Sharon K. Owen to the mix.

What motivates Sharon K Owen the author? Why do you write?

I love to create characters and put them in situations that intrigue, inspire and entertain me. Then, I write them down and hope they will have the same effect on my readers.

I write the kind of books I like to read. I always want to entertain my readers and make their reading experience a positive one. I always hope my readers enjoy the book and feel better after they read it.

When did you know you were a writer? Was it always your destiny or did you stumble upon your craft by accident?

I've always known I was a story teller and a creator of imaginary universes. From my first memories as a child, I created stories in which I was, of course, the star, the heroine, the rescuer. Later, I started writing the stories down but seldom shared them with anyone else. Eventually, I had the courage to put them out there in the universe for others to make a decision on their worthiness.

What is your favorite genre to write and why?

I am an avid reader and enjoy many genres. I like cozy mysteries, psychological thrillers, police/legal procedurals, young adult, romantic suspense, regencies, urban fantasie and paranormals. I enjoy character driven contemporary novels with witty dialogue and interesting plots. My favorite writers are Nora Roberts, Janet Evanovich, John Grisham and John Sandford.

How did you get into Ebook publishing?

A good friend of mine, Ann Summerville, published her novels as Ebooks and encouraged me to try it. It's been a very good experience for me.

How many hours a day do you devote to writing? Do you have a set routine or do you write when the mood strikes?

I don't have a set routine as for as the number of hours I spend or the number of pages I produce. Maybe I should. However, I tend to write at night (usually 2 am to 5 am) and in the late afternoon (4 pm to 7 pm). If the writing is really clicking along, I extend those times.

Tell us about the most intriguing character you've created.

Kate O'Donnell, the protagonist of my first novel Thicker Than Water (Brands Crossing Series), is one who especially intrigued me because she was such a complex character. A talented singer/songwriter/musician, she moves from Nashville at 18, hoping to establish a successful musical career without depending on financial or social assistance from her influential family back in Texas. When a family crisis arises, however, she doesn't hesitate to leave a promising career and romance in Nashville and return home to support her family.

Who is your favorite author? And, if given the opportunity to meet them, what would you ask them?

Nora Roberts. I actually did have the chance to meet her early in her career. I was too shy to ask her any questions. If I have the same opportunity again, I have a whole list of questions, starting with how she finds the time to write so many wonderful books each year.

What did you do when you found out your first book had been contracted?

I self-published my first book. When I finally was satisfied—after reading the third proof copy—I poured a glass of pino noir, spread some brie on a fancy cracker and scooped out a spoonful of Blue Bell Pistacio Almond ice cream. One I finished my treat, I crawled into bed and took a nap.

Has there been a person or influence in your life that has helped you reach your writing goals?

Many people have influenced me, beginning with my grandfather who was a natural story teller. Through the years I've been lucky to have many teachers and mentors who shared their knowledge and experience very generously. I've also been fortunate to belong to a wonderful writing-critique group, Trinity Writers Workshop. The friends I've made at TWW have been a constant source or support in my writing journey.

Do you have any words of inspiration to aspiring authors? What advice would you offer a writer trying to publish?

Read. Read. Read. The most important things for a writer is a love of books and the ability to tell a story. Everything else can be learned. I believe the most successful authors write about what they know and in a genre they enjoy reading. They should also take creative writing classes and join a good writing workshop.

Tell us about your current release.

Thicker Than Water (Brands Crossing Series) is the first in a series of contemporary romantic suspense novels set in Brands Crossing, a mythical community in North Texas. This series chronicles the lives of the Kincaids, a prominent family in this small town, and focuses on a mystery that extends back to the mid-eighteenth century and the young Texas Republic.

The second novel, Whatever Goes Around, will be published in March of 2012.

Blurb:

My first published novel, Thicker Than Water (Brands Crossing Series) was published in July of 2011. As a child, KATE O'DONNELL spends summers at her grandparents' estate in Brands Crossing where she and her girl cousins battle make-believe monsters, rescue endangered victims and a save a mythical kingdom. At twenty-five Kate is a singer/songwriter living in Nashville and pursuing a promising relationship with computer game designer PHILLIP NORWOOD. There, her only battles are fought in Aidenne's Revenge, Phillip's online fantasy game based on her childhood adventures. With her grandfather's sudden death from injuries he sustained in a suspicious car crash, Kate is forced to make a choice. Will she remain in Nashville to focus on Phillip and her music career? Or will she move back to Brands Crossing and honor the promise she made to her grandfather that she would investigate the mystery surrounding his death? Family trumps career and romance and Kate heads back to Texas where the monsters, victims and endangered kingdoms are all too real. In an attempt to protect Kate from danger, Phillip joins her quest and helps her search for incriminating documents, investigate a centuries-old family feud and confront an anonymous rose-bearing admirer who stalks Kate in both real and virtual universes. Thicker Than Water is the first in a series of novels set in Brands Crossing, Texas. It chronicles the lives of the Kincaids, a prominent family in this mythical town, and focuses on a mystery that extends back to the mid-eighteenth century and the young Texas Republic.

My second novel, Whatever Goes Around (Brands Crossing Series) is scheduled for publication in March of 2012. CLAIRE KINCAID is the self-appointed fixer of all problems in her family. Despite her siblings' and cousins' beliefs that they are capable of managing their own lives, Claire knows they really need her guidance and offers it at every opportunity. When she discovers that sinister forces are disrupting her sister Madelaine's and her cousin Ann Marie's personal and professional lives, she doesn't hesitate to take steps to set things straight. Unfortuanately, she underestimates the enemies she confronts and unknowingly puts herself and her family in danger. Forced to rely on the help of family and friends, she has to reexamine her long-held belief that she always knows best.

Buy Link:

http://www.amazon.com/Thicker-Than-Water-Brands-Crossing/dp http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/thicker-than-water-sharon-k-owen/1104562615/1453772936/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1324544626&sr=8-1

http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/sharonkatherine

Do you have any upcoming projects in the works?

My second novel, Whatever Goes Around (Brands Crossing Series) is scheduled for publication in March of 2012.

Where can readers connect with you?

blog; http://sharonkowensimplycreating.wordpress.com; website: http://sharonkowen.com

https://www.facebook.com/?ref=hp#!/sharonkowen https://twitter.com/#!/sharon_k_owen email: sharonkatherine@sharonkowen.com

***

Thanks so much for joining us today.

Kris Andersson Guest Blogger

2012-02-06T04:43:00.000-08:00

I’m rather proud of my first collection of stories, While the Wife’s Away, and while I have developed my style in subsequent titles Acts of Passion and A Special Gift, I think these first three short stories have a raw energetic quality that makes them extremely entertaining.

Once the suggestion had been made that I might give gay fiction a so, I started to write with great speed, often surprising myself with the amount of words hat would spill onto the screen in a very short time.

My first concern was that the sex scenes would all be identical but you quickly realise that with just a little imagination, he act of penetration – and all the fun that surrounds it – can be described in many different ways and that the reader should never be bored so long as there’s plenty of variety and a few surprises along he way.

Perhaps that’s why, even though these are gay stories, two out of the three also include sex scenes involving women.

And I have to confess I find writing heterosexual sex scenes just as stimulating as I do the gay scenes – so long as the ladies are lusty, busty and enjoy shedding skimpy bras and stockings as part of their sex games, which must include lots of sucking.

Perhaps it’s just me but I find nipples enormously exciting and my male characters, just as much as my female characters, all enjoy having tits licked, bitten and sucked with great vigour – in fact, in my latest and soon to be published story I even enter the world of lactation and it’s hugely arousing sexual possibilities.

One scene I found particularly engaging to writ was the voyeuristic moment in The Sin of Father Anthony, my personal favourite from this introductory collection of stories, when the young narrator, hidden from view, watches the old Parish Priest enjoy a lively sex session with his big chested housekeeper…

Much to my surprise and complete fascination, he slipped his arms round her waist and them let his hands move up to grasp her enormous breasts.

I expected Iris to scream with horror but, to my amazement, all I heard was a little groan of what even a 16 year old boy could identify as pure pleasure.

And that seemed like the end of the scene – Iris continued to wash the pots and Father O’Hanlon returned to his chair, which was pulled back from the table, sat down and picked up his morning racing paper.

For some reason, though, I sensed that the drama wasn’t over and retained my place as unseen observer.

Iris finished washing the pots, turned, removed her rubber gloves and walked towards the table.

Now I had the stifle my own gasp as I saw her go down on her knees between the priest’s legs, pull down his flies and gently ease an erect cock from his black trousers.

It was the first male erection I had ever seen apart from my own and I was fascinated by its girth and length, especially when Iris placed it in her mouth and started to suck noisily…

By the time I had finished that section of the story I knew the only thing for the hero to do was go home and masturbate…and I knew exactly how he felt!

The story that most surprised me though was Masters and Servants, based on something I have experienced myself…not sex but redundancy.

The premise was really simple – how far would most of us go in our bid to find a job?

Using that as my starting point, I simply took my narrator into a variety of steamy workplace situations and shocked myself by how much he was prepared to do to get himself a salary.

I’m not saying I’d go quite that far myself but in times of genuine recession, who knows what any of us would be prepared to sacrifice…particularly if the person suggesting we make that sacrifice was fit and hairy!

*****

While the Wife’s Away is a collection of three gay short stories from well-known erotic author Kris Andersson.

While the Wife's Away: When the boss suggests an evening meeting at his home and makes it quite clear that his wife is away for the night, you can guarantee that there will be more than statistics and spread sheets on the agenda - and by the end of the night a new sort of business partnership has been created.

Masters and Servants: It's hard losing your job - and even harder looking for something new. But just how far will one man go to impress the boss? From steamy encounters in the office to passion in a scenic lift and shower room to lust in the potting shed, this is one job search that proves especially stimulating!

The Sin of Father Anthony: When a new priest arrives in town, one lapsed Catholic decides it's time to start attending Mass again - but he has more than absolution on his mind as he uses his girlfriend to get closer to the true object of his desire and give him a night he’ll never forget. From lusty housekeepers and choir mistresses to a hairy trucker with a taste for stockings and suspenders, this is a story packed with sexual thrills for a young man on a personal mission to satisfy his gay passions.

*****

Kris Andersson is an award-winning writer - and occasional actor - who specialises in gay erotica. His work has been described as both pacy and steamy. His current titles include While The Wife’s Away – a collection of three stories - Acts of Passion and A Special Gift. A fourth title is expected to be published very soon and will take Kris in a very different direction, a gay love story set against the horrors of the First World War and its aftermath.

***

While the Wife’s Away and Other Stories is out now from House of Erotica. It is available from Amazon UK, Amazon US, All Romance eBooks and many, many more.

At the Beach - Part 5

2012-02-04T12:18:00.000-08:00

You can check out parts 1-4 by clicking here.

PART FIVE

Ally couldn't believe she'd just invited her hot lifeguard inside. The words were out of her mouth before she had time to think it through. Cody's response was even faster as he stepped through the doorway.

"I'd love to."

He stood in front of her. He was so close she could feel his breath on her lips. She pulled the blanket up over her shoulders and held it tightly across her chest.

He smiled as he continued to stare at her.

"What?"

"You don’t have to be shy," he said. "I see you in a tiny bikini every day. You're seriously hot."

"Um, thanks." She blushed, but inside she was screaming he'd noticed her at all. "We can go up to the living room."

He followed her up the stairs.

"Would you like a glass of wine?"

"I'm good, thanks." He walked into the living room and glanced out the large glass doors that overlooked the beach. "Great view. No wonder you're so inspired to paint. You can see everything from up here."

"Yeah." She nodded. "Pretty much everything."

He turned, focusing his gaze on the covered canvas in the corner of the room. "Work in progress?"

"You could say that."

"Can I see?"

"Ah, no." She bit her trembling bottom lip. "I don’t like to reveal until it's finished."

"I get that," he said. "So, you did that one?" He pointed above the mantle over the fireplace. "It's amazing."

"Thanks," she said. "It was one of my first beach paintings. I did it the summer I graduated college."

"I can see how much of you is in your work. You have a real passion for this. I've been studying the paintings at the gallery. You have a distinct signature. I like it."

"Will I get to see anything from you?" She sat down on the couch and motioned for him to sit, too.

"I have a few finished pieces. You could come check them out if you want." He plopped down next to her. "Maybe tomorrow?"

"I'd like that," she said.

"Hmm." He reached out and twirled a strand of her hair around his finger.

Her whole body hummed with anticipation. She should have backed away, but it had been a while since anyone had touched her. And she'd been thinking about having him touch her for some time.

He studied the hair wrapped around his finger. "It's like cinnamon."

"The color?"

"Yeah." He looked up at her without releasing the strand. "I know exactly what color I'd use if you were my subject. Can I persuade you?"

"To sit for you?"

She observed his lips. Her eyes were glued to them. She couldn't wait to pick up a brush because she now had the shape embedded in her mind.

"Yes." He stroked her cheek. "I could definitely work with this bone structure."

She leaned into his touch, letting her eyes memorize every detail of his face. She'd probably never be this close to him again, so she needed to take it all in if that painting was going to be an exact replica of the Adonis who sat before her.

He ran his fingers down her jaw and across her neck. "You've never modeled before?"

"I'm an artist."

He pushed the throw from her shoulders, letting it fall behind her. "You're a work of art."

***

Swoons! He'd make my head spin;)

The Lonely Dominant available for Kindle/Nook

2012-02-02T16:10:00.000-08:00

Look what's found its way to Amazon and Barnes & Noble!

The Lonely Dominant

A BDSM Romance

Blurb

Successful businessman Alec Carter realizes his life is less than fulfilled when he meets beautiful Princeton University senior Clara Whittaker at a local coffee shop. Alec experiments in the BDSM lifestyle but doesn't consider himself hardcore until he crosses paths with the obviously submissive Clara. The more time Alec spends with young Clara, the more his dominant tendencies push to the surface. She could be what has been missing.

After her grandmother's death, Clara ends up a guest in Alec's home until she can finish school. She quickly learns she's a natural submissive and decides she wants to explore this new side of herself with the man of house. Alec shows her a life she never knew existed as they enter into a world of role playing, fantasy, and desire. Alec may be the Master, but Clara holds the key to his heart.

As the semester comes to an end, so does their arrangement. If Alec doesn't admit his true feelings for Clara, she could walk out of his life forever. But, Alec isn’t sure which she craves more . . . his dominance . . . or his love.

Excerpt

I broke the kiss and gently stroked her hair. "Thank you for letting me be the first to bring you that pleasure. You don't know how it pleases me."

I continued to stare at her for a few moments, occasionally placing a soft kiss on her lips.

"I want to please you," she said. "I can't explain it, but I have these urges to make you happy."

"What do you mean?" I said, figuring we might as well put it all on the table.

"Ever since I met you, there's just been something about you. It's the way you act, and you always seem to have control over everything. It's really sexy."

I smirked, because she got me completely.

"When I hear you on the phone for work, you just say what needs to be done. You never ask, and you always get results. There are times when I think I want you to talk to me that way. Is there something wrong with me? I can't even believe I'm telling you this."

I laughed, because if there was something wrong with her, then I was certainly a head case.

"Clara," I picked up her shirt from the floor and handed it to her, "there's nothing wrong with you. I think there's a very specific reason we're drawn to one another."

"Why?"

"Do you know what a Dominant is?" Why waste time?

I was never the type to beat around the bush. When I wanted something, I put it out there. This was no different. She may not have realized it, but she was attracted to me because she was submissive. Exactly how submissive? I wasn't sure, but I hoped to find out.

She quickly put her blouse back on and buttoned it up. We'd have to work on her modesty, too. I planned to have her naked quite a bit.

"I think so," she said. "It's when a person takes on the dominant role in a sexual relationship."

I smiled. "Yes, that's part of it, but it's also the Dom's responsibility to teach and help his submissive reach pleasure beyond her wildest dreams. It's a mutually beneficial relationship between two consenting adults."

"Alec, are you dominant?"

"In almost every aspect of my life, especially in the bedroom."

"Oh," she said, as she adjusted her skirt.

"Does that bother you?" I'd give her the opportunity to run screaming from the house.

"Actually," she said, and the blush took over her face again. "It kind of intrigues me."

"Really?"

She nodded.

"Do you know anything about that type of relationship?" I pulled her closer to me. She was so soft and warm, and I couldn't keep my hands off her. I'd touch her all day if I could.

"Not firsthand, obviously." She traced my lips with her fingertip. I liked when she touched me unprovoked. "I had a human sexuality course last semester and we discussed dominant and submissive behaviors, and I realized I could be a submissive. Not extremely submissive. I mean, I don't think I could be someone's slave, or do it twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, but I found it a turn-on."

Is this really happening?

"The more I learned about the subject, the more I realized I wanted to be dominated," she said. "But, it wasn't something I thought I could explore. I wouldn't even know how to go about it."

Surreal was the only way to describe what was happening here. Anytime I'd engaged in this behavior, I'd had to seek out my subs as discreetly as possible. I would go through friends I knew in the community to find a woman who was into the same things I was. I'd always had difficulty finding someone who was only interested in light play. Most subs were looking for long-term, hard play, and as secure as I was, I just wasn't into beating or humiliating anyone. I also liked having the power of being able to play when I wanted to.

"I'm not a hard-core Dom. I've dabbled, but I've never collared a sub, and I've never been in a relationship with one before. I enjoy the lifestyle, but I did it only with a willing partner, and only for brief periods of time. We both took what we needed from the experience, and then we mutually parted ways."

She looked disappointed by my response. Maybe she thought I was more involved in the lifestyle?

"It's a very satisfying experience when both participants are open and honest about their wants and desires. The pleasures I've gained through my past experiences were like none I'd ever experienced before."

"I'd like to try it," she said. "I want to submit to you."

"You're so young." Her age didn't bother me. Rather, I knew she was so inexperienced when it came to sex and relationships. I wasn't certain she could make this kind of decision. "I'd need you to be absolutely sure."

"You said it was consensual. I wouldn't have to do anything I didn't want to, and if I remember correctly, there are safe words we could use."

"I think you know more than you're letting on." I arched a brow at her, but I was impressed by her openness. I was surprised she had the courage to press the matter.

"I may have researched the subject a couple of times."

"You're right about safe words. They are set up to protect not only your physical boundaries, but your emotional limits as well. I would push your limits, but only to show you how much pleasure you could gain. I couldn't do this 24/7 either. We'd have to come up with some sort of agreement, since we live under the same roof." Are we really entertaining this?

"Weekends?" She shrugged. "Maybe we could try it out?"

I smiled and gently kissed her lips. "Yes, I think weekends would work perfectly."

Click here to read chapter one.

Amazon link...

http://www.amazon.com/The-Lonely-Dominant-ebook/dp/B0074ARRJG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1328215349&sr=8-1

B&N link...

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-lonely-dominant-ella-jade/1108540654?ean=2940014108904&itm=1&usri=the+lonely+dominant

Snowy Fate by Marissa Dobson Review

2012-02-02T04:47:00.000-08:00

Snowy Fate

Fate always knows when you’re ready for love.

The past is catching up with Aspyn Layton. The father she never knew passed away and she is left to deal with his estate. An unexpected snowstorm has her stranded at the one place she didn’t want to be—her father’s house—with a naked man.

Damon Andrews has a secret, one he shared with Aspyn’s father. He must convince Aspyn there is more to life than what she knows. How will she react when she finds out he is a mountain lion, and she is his mate? Their fates are intertwined.

***

This was my first shape shifter story. Well, unless you count Twilight, but this was definitely my first mountain lion shifter story.

When Aspyn's estranged father passes away, she's left to deal with his estate. But, when a snow storm hits, she has to deal with more than legalities. She finds herself stuck with a pretty hot man and her father's journal. When she first encounters Damon, he's naked and coming in from the storm. Strange, but hot. He encourages her to read the beginning of the journal.

Aspyn has no interest in the father who abandoned her and could care less what that journal has to say, but she reads it anyway and with each page she becomes more intrigued by what she learns. Once she lets the secrets of the pages sink in, Damon has some explaining to do.

This story was short and sweet. It clocks in at a little under 8k. If you're like me and some nights you just don't have the energy to read a full-blown novel, Snowy Fate is a perfect choice. I snuggled up under the electric throw and read it in one sitting. Its a smooth read and flows at a nice pace.

Ms. Dobson sets up the conflict between the two characters from the onset, but gives the reader the resolution the characters need by the books end. I felt Aspyn's pain and abandonment issues right off the bat. I could also identify with Damon's desire to fill the lonely void in his life. I was thrilled when these two found one another.

Snowy Fate is a cozy read for a cold winter night.

***

Excerpt

There are edits in the air...in the air...

2012-01-30T16:15:00.000-08:00

...and on the dining room table, living room floor, kitchen counter and the middle of my bed. My laptop, notes and phone keep following me from room to room.

I completed first round edits for my March release, Crossfire of Love, with Beachwalk Press. I sent them back to my editor and then like a Gremlin my upcoming release, Passion's Pain, with Liquid Silver Books showed up in my in-box. Funny how that happens;)

I happened to be on g-chat with my good friend and fellow Beachwalk Press author Tamaria Soana when I opened the edits. I was a little overwhelmed as I always am when I see the comments for the first time. I'm neurotic, I won't lie. She made me this...

I keep looking at it every time I think I might want to jump of the ledge. I've worked rather diligently today. I've made lots of progress and the manuscript is looking good. Funny how that happens too. Writing is rewriting, or so I've learned. You write, edit, polish, add, delete, write some more and then before you know it, you have the finished product. Something you can be proud to put your name on.

So, writers... when you're totally stressed, take a deep breath, relax and keep going. It'll all be worth it.

If you're wondering where I got the title for this post, once upon a time, not so long ago... I used to take my kids to Gymboree and we would sing, "There are bubbles in the air, in the air, there are bubbles in the air in the air..."

This video is not of me or my kids. I just googled the song and found it on You Tube. You can find everything on there.

Have a great day. I'm off to a hot shower and then I'll get back to it.

Ella

xoxo

At the Beach Part 4

2012-01-28T19:08:00.000-08:00

Here we are with the fourth installment of my At the Beach contribution. If you missed the previous parts click here.

Waves of Change

His jaw line was much more prominent than she'd originally thought. She'd have to fix that in the painting.

"Ms. Nicholas," the sexy life guard said. "I'm Cody Sanders."

Cody, of course that would be his name.

"Ally," she said. "Please call me Ally." Ms. Nicholas really made her feel like a cougar.

"Okay, Ally." He smiled and she decided she'd have to find a way to incorporate those sparkling, white teeth into her painting too. "I was wondering if you'd spare me a few moments of your time."

"For?" She knew what she needed from him, but she couldn't imagine what he'd want from her.

"I paint," he said.

"Excuse me?"

"I'm an artist, well, at least I'm trying to be, but I'm not very successful. My father told me you were showing a few of your paintings at a gallery in town and I was wondering if you'd mind helping me."

"Who is your father?"

"Mayor Dobson." He laughed. "I figured you knew who I was. It’s a small town."

"I keep to myself."

The freakin' mayor's kid?

"I know," he said. "I've wanted to approach you for a few weeks, but I didn't want to bother you."

"You wouldn't. I mean, I don't mind answering your questions."

"That's very kind of you," he said. "My dad's been pestering me to talk to you. He's kind of ticked about shelling out all that cash for NYU and now I'm back here lifeguarding like I did when I was in high school."

"You're finished college?"

"Yeah, last spring." He nodded. "I'm a twenty-four year old starving artist."

I'm only three years older!

Moisture gathered between her thighs at the notion of her no longer being a cougar. Three years didn't make her a cougar, did it?

"What do you paint?" she asked.

"Everything."

"Can you be more specific?"

"I see it and I paint it, but I love to paint live subjects. Do you do anything like that?" he asked. "Work with models?"

Oh, you have no idea.

"Um, well, I do like to paint people, but I don't have much experience with that. I've mostly done beaches, oceans and lakes. The pieces I have in the gallery are all based on this town. That's why the owner agreed to show them."

"I went to see them," he admitted. "They're breathtaking." He stepped closer to the entryway. "Just like the artist."

A chill ran down her spine.

Dear God, is he flirting?

"I apologize for being so forward," he said. "It's just I've been watching you these last few weeks."

She arched a brow at him.

"Not in a stalker kind of way." He nervously ran his fingers through his hair.

"I don’t think you're a stalker." How could she? She'd been studying him for a month and using her painting as an excuse to have some pretty hot fantasies just before drifting off to sleep every night.

"That's good. I figured another artist can understand."

"Understand what?"

"When you get a vision and it won’t leave you. I'd love to pick your brain about your paintings, but really, I can't stop thinking about what it would be like to have you as my subject."

The throw slipped from her shoulders, allowing Cody to get an even better look at her half-covered body. Suddenly she didn’t feel so awkward anymore.

"Would you like to come inside?"

***

I'll be back in a few days to let you see what happens next...

Home... Featured in Valentine's Day Anthology

2012-01-26T18:21:00.000-08:00

My short story Home is being featured in the Ruby Lioness Press Valentine's Day Anthology...Love, Again.

The theme to this anthology is finding a lost love. I'm thrilled to be included in the seven author compilation and I'm excited to bring you my story about Dr. Chase Avery and Elyse Jacobs.

Blurb...

Six months after she leaves, Chase finds himself alone and overworked, dealing with the mistakes of the past.

When Elyse shows up unexpectedly on Valentine’s Day, can an old flame be rekindled or is it nothing more than one last night of passion?

The anthology is scheduled to release on Valentine's Day and will be available in both eBook and print (my 1st print book!). To check out the other lovely authors and their story blurbs click here.

If you're looking for a sweet and "HEA" kind of read on the holiday for lovers be sure to check this one out.

The EBook Reviewers

2012-01-25T18:32:00.000-08:00

Hey Authors,

Looking for a place to promote your work? There's a new site in town and they want YOUR EBOOKS!

The EBook Reviewers is now accepting requests to review your work. If you're a new author and you'd like to get some feedback and exposure give them a whirl. If you're an existing author and you want a new place to get a review check them out. Since they're new the response time may not be that long.

Here's what they're looking for...

Review Submissions
We will only accept eBooks for review. If your book is part of a series, we may need the previous books in the series. We will try to review each eBook we receive in a timely fashion, though that cannot always be the case. If I accept a book for review, it does not guarantee a review, but it does guarantee promotion through my newsletter. I do not accept payment for my reviews.

We also forward reviews of our favorite books along with the link to authors and publishers. We also tweet out the review links on twitter.

We write fair and honest reviews, as such we may not always write completely positive reviews. Our reviews are the individual reviewer’s opinion, we will not however write snarky or nasty reviews.

What we will review:

Erotica

Contemporary Romance

Historical

Romantic Suspense
Paranormal

Sci-fi

Drama

Horror

Crime Dramas

BDSM

GLTB

You can check out their site and review their policies here...

http://theebookreviewers.blogspot.com/

Meet The Author... R. Renee Vickers

2012-01-23T04:37:00.000-08:00

Please help me welcome my fellow Noble Romance Author R. Renee Vickers. She's got lots to tell us and she's being generous and offering up an eBook copy of her sexy novel Sly's Surrender. So, leave her some love and she'll chose one random commenter.

***

Many thanks to the hostess, Ella Jade, for having me today. I really appreciate the chance to hang out with you and your readers. *waves* Hi! If you would, please allow me to apologize ahead of time for the eye strain, headaches, nausea, and indigestion this post might cause. Please take care when reading this while pregnant, thinking about being pregnant (yeah, I’m that good), if you have a history of heart disease, bad breath, or trench foot please consult a doctor prior to continuing on. As a matter of legality, I am not liable for the sudden desire to kick a tween you are about to receive. Watch out, I might just be making this shit up.

What motivates R. Renée Vickers the author? Why do you write?

I’ve lived with a fatal disease since I was very young, too young to remember exactly when I was first diagnosed. It’s called Artism. The doctors said I have only about ninety years left to live. And what a life it is. This grim existence is rife with emotional distress over images and form, context and texture, and well . . . .

The doctors had me on some effective, but short lived medications: painting, sculpting, drawing, jewelry making, quilting, and a bevy of crafts. But none lasted to this day and none truly satisfied. That was, until I found writing. I could gush, but I’ll save you from that and say that when I had my first taste of writing, nothing else seemed to sooth the symptoms quite as well.

Sorry, my smartass is showing. I’ve been driven to create for as long as I can remember, but it was only recently that I began pursuing my love for writing. I do it to exercise my creativity, to manipulate words and express my thoughts and ideas.

What inspires me to write ranges widely. From current events, to mythology and folk lore, anything that gets my gears going is what inspires me. I also like to explore the darker side of reality and human nature. I really believe that to appreciate the light and good, we need to understand the darkness within.

When did you know you were a writer? Was it always your destiny or did you stumble upon your craft by accident?

It wasn’t an accident, I think everything happens for a reason, but I didn’t plan on being a writer either. I started a couple of years ago writing a fanfiction – I had an image stuck in my head after reading some manga and no matter how many ways I drew or painted it, I couldn’t seem to capture the whole thing. It was a character. I tried writing it out and in very rapid order the character sketch turned into a scene, which turned into about 250 (horrible) hand-written pages. Soon after that I joined an online writing community which put me into contact with some fabulously talented folks who did nothing but encourage me. It was their support that made me think this was a passion I should pursue.

What is your favorite genre to write and why?

That’s a difficult one to answer. With every new write I find a new favorite genre/subgenre to read and write. Because I’m new to the writing scene I’m still exploring and experimenting with as many of the genres as I can get my hands on. I do find I like to read m/f, m/m, and BDSM the most, so far.

Is there a particular genre you haven't tried but what like to? What is it and why?

In Erotic Romance, I think m/m would be something I’d like to try to write one day for the challenge alone. In a way I think the challenge of it would be most rewarding since it would push me to really get into the mind and essence of the characters. I’d have to really explore what the male characters are experiencing, since I’m not a guy.

How did you get into eBook publishing?

A- A friend gave me some sound advice. “At some point you have to decide if it’s time to piss or get off the pot.” I’d been on a few writing websites for a several months and knew one day I wanted to be a real life author but didn’t think I was ready. When he said that, he followed it by telling me that I’m ready to start pursuing it. He was a relentless force in the encouragement department doing everything from helping me decide on a piece to answering every mundane and asinine question I had. Because of him, my one day came and went and I couldn’t be happier about that. I feel I’m solidly on my way and I couldn’t thank him enough for the push in the right direction.

How many hours a day do you devote to writing? Do you have a set routine or do you write when the mood strikes?

I try to write for an hour a day at least, but I haven’t really set down a strict schedule yet. It’s time to, I know that. There are days I don’t write, but it’s rare. However, when the mood strikes I’ve been known to sit down and write for three to four hour blocks of time, several days or weeks in a row. Keep in mind I work a full time job, five days a week and have a family and household to maintain also. So when the mood strikes I don’t sleep much.

Is there a certain aspect of the story you begin with? Do you create the characters first or do you come up with the plot?

I tend to see a scene in my head before anything else and then characters, plot and location are built around that. Even when I’m given a topic to write, there’s usually a scene that hits me over the head before I can sit down and begin flushing out a story.

Tell us about the most intriguing character you've created.

I’ve been working off and on writing a YA fiction about an assassin werewolf. The MC’s name is Ginokami and she’s one of my favorite characters to date. She’s a 16 year old ex-assassin who ran away from her family and sought asylum in a peaceful village. She’s also a werewolf. This new home is unlike anything she’s experienced, where werewolves live amongst humans in relative peace. She faces many obstacles including understanding what “human” is. Looking from her eyes, outside of humanity looking in, has redefined her views on life and her perspective on her former clan.

Who is your favorite author? And, if given the opportunity to meet them, what would you ask them?

Another toughie. I have to say I’m split down the middle between two authors, Charles De Lint and Laurell K. Hamilton. I adore them for different reasons but I think they’re both fine weavers of tales and crafters of characters. If I met Charles I’d have to bring a five subject notebook just to get through my questions on his perspectives of myths and science fiction. For Laurell, I’d have to ask her if her character Ted Forrester could have his own miniseries. (Pretty please with a cherry on top)

What did you do when you found out your first book had been contracted?

I squealed, I’m pretty sure of it. Once I calmed down enough to breath, my dear husband took me out to one of my favorite restaurants, Ruby Tuesdays. I think I walked around for about two weeks telling (and retelling) everyone I knew that I was going to be published.

Has there been a person or influence in your life that has helped you reach your writing goals?

Yes, there’s been a few. My husband is one. He supported me and tolerated the obscene amount of time I’ve poured into this. And a friend of mine has been particularly integral.

Do you have any words of inspiration to aspiring authors? What advice would you offer a writer trying to publish?

It can and will happen if you have the guts to pursue your passion. If you put your ego aside and decide you’re willing to learn what it takes to be successful, no hardship can stop you.

Advice wise, publication is a hard road so be sure to have your big boy/girl pants on. Be willing to put in the time and do the work, have a thick skin for criticism and rejection, take every opportunity you can, and rejoice in your successes with everyone who’s helped you along the way. Writing is a passion but it is 1/1000^th of the process of becoming successful author. I’m still working on that, myself.

Tell us about your current release.

My current release is Sly’s Surrender, a passionate tale of a woman who has to learn to release her strangle-hold grip on control. This story originally started off as a challenge by a friend just to see how comfortable I could be in writing in the Erotic Romance genre. This book surprised me by both being my very first publication and by landing on Noble Romance’s best seller’s list in the first two weeks.

Blurb:

By day Sly is a take-charge, no-nonsense restaurateur, and at night she plays her hand as a demanding mistress. Sly has everything her heart desires: a successful business with loyal patrons, a gorgeous boyfriend and a flair for dominating in the bedroom. Everything she’s ever tried has gone her way, every decision followed to success, every goal achieved, and yet she yearns for more.

One night she decides to try something new, giving up her customary control to the tall, dark, and sexy Jake. Jake is put in a position to prove to his lover just what he’s capable of, and Sly experiences the new pleasures to be found in letting someone else handle her reins.

Buy Link:

https://www.nobleromance.com/Books?author=200

Do you have any upcoming projects in the works?

A- Yes, thank you for asking. I’ve submitted a book for publication for Amber Green’s project, Lesbians versus Zombies. I’m hoping to have some good news to share about that soon. I’m also working on a piece for a charitable project J.S. Wayne is putting together called Writing Out Child Abuse (WOCA). I’m not done with that yet and it’s currently unnamed.

Where can readers connect with you?

I can be found hanging around my blog if anyone cares to stop by: http://museampoule.wordpress.com/. It’s a fun site where I conduct many interviews of a variety of creative people, and ramble about who knows what on any given day. I’ve also been known to bribe my readers with free copies of my work. Stop by and subscribe if you like what you see.

Thank you once more, Ella. It’s been a real pleasure hanging out with you today. And thanks to those readers who humored me in my ramblings today. You all are great!

***

Thanks for stopping by!

Readers - Leave a comment for your chance to win an eBook copy of Sly's Surrender.

WIP...Dancing Into Darkness

2012-01-21T16:09:00.000-08:00

My husband has been out of town since Tuesday. The week went pretty smoothly. The kids and I were really busy. Once the weekend hit, we slowed down. It snowed a few inches here last night and then it all iced up, so we didn't leave the house today. The boys were busy with Xbox and some computer game called Minecraft I don't understand.

Since I was basically solo, I was able to start work on my latest WIP. The story hit me the other day and I decided to sit down and see what happened. I know next week I'll be in over my head with edits. I heard from both of my editors over the past few days and they've both assured me to expect round one edits on Crossfire of Love and Passion's Pain. Don't ask me how they're both going to hit at the same time. I'm just lucky that way:)

In any case, my new story hasn't given me any trouble whatsoever. I almost didn't believe it myself when I glanced at the word count. I just started this thing late Thursday night and I've already managed to get 9,000 words down. How crazy is that?

I thought I'd share the prologue. Keep in mind it's rough and it will probably need to be tweaked and reworked but this is the general direction I'm headed.

***

Prologue

Move in with him? Could I?

Madison Devon's heart raced and her stomach fluttered with anticipation as she watched Dr. Gabe Hartford walked down the dimly lit tree-lined street. She'd been infatuated with him since moving to the quaint town a few miles off Cape Cod. When she came to the little town to start her life over a few months ago, she'd never expected to find love. She didn't want to. How could she after the past eight years of physical and emotional abuse she suffered at the hands of a man she thought loved her. She was weak and immature, but when she finally found the courage to take back her life she'd never felt so empowered.

She certainly didn’t expect the good doctor to sweep her off her feet and show her what it truly meant to love unconditionally. She smiled as she watched him turn the corner and head back to his large home that overlooked the ocean just a few blocks from the cottage she'd rented. She came there to start a new. To find a future. Gabe wanted to give her everything she'd ever dreamed of.

Madison wanted to live happily ever after with him. He'd asked her to consider moving in with him. As far as she was concerned there was nothing to consider. She wanted to start living again and she wanted it to be with him. She'd head to his house tomorrow with coffee and those cranberry cinnamon muffins he liked from Abbot's Bakery. She'd give him her answer.

She giggled as she skipped up the porch steps. The future held so many possibilities. She turned the handle on her front door, shaking her head and mentally scolding herself for leaving the door unlocked. A girl from the city should've known better. But the town was so warm and friendly, she'd gotten into the habit of leaving windows open and doors unlocked.

She walked into the dark house and flipped on the hall light. She smelled the faint aroma of a cigarette.

That's strange.

As she moved deeper into the cottage, she noticed the half empty bottle of the familiar Russian vodka on the coffee table. Her stomach was nauseous. Her legs refused to push forward, but she willed herself to look in the direction of the recliner. She sensed him before she saw him.

"Hello, my little kitten." He didn't move from the chair as he sipped his drink and stared at her. "You didn't think you could stay hidden forever, did you?"

Madison should have known her happily ever after was too good to be true.

***

Yeah, so there we have it. I'm hoping to get a few more pages down before my edits drop this week. I'll keep you posted.

Ella

xoxo

At the Beach Part 3 - Ella Jade

2012-01-19T17:12:00.000-08:00

So, here's part 3 of my contribution to the Beachwalk Press At the Beach author compilation. If you missed the beginning of this micro-novel, you can catch it here...

http://ellajadeauthor.blogspot.com/p/at-beach.html

Waves of Change

Ally quickly turned the faucet, changing the water temperature from hot to freezing. She needed to settle down. No man other than Jared had ever affected her in such a way, especially not a stranger.

She quickly toweled off and moisturized her tanned skin. If she was going to be a permanent resident of this quaint, little town she'd need to take care of her skin. She brushed out her long, cinnamon locks and slipped on her favorite soft, silky peach nighty. It made her feel attractive and desirable.

She walked back out to the living room, topped off her wine glass and settled on the couch. Just as she was about to pull the throw over her body she heard a knock at the door. She wasn't expecting any company. She pretty much kept to herself and didn't know many people in the town. It was filled with mostly vacationers during the summer months. There were only a few regulars, but she wasn't close enough to any of them to have them just pop in.

There was another quick wrap at the door. She hopped off the couch, taking the throw with her. She couldn't exactly answer the door in such a provocative nightgown. She draped it over her shoulders and headed down the steps to the foyer. She peeked out the glass panel window by the side of the grand, mahogany door. Even with his back turned to her, she knew who it was.

This couldn't be.

Her heart rate increased and her palms were suddenly clammy. Her mouth was dry and she could feel the heat creeping up the back of her neck. She tried to take a calming breath before she had a full out panic attack.

Get a hold of yourself!

She tucked her hair behind her ear and slowly opened the door. He shoved his hands in the pockets of his khaki shorts and quickly whirled around to face her. He let his eyes wander down her body and she felt her cheeks burn under his scrutiny.

Who answers the door in a nightgown?

"Hello." She swallowed hard because she almost didn’t recognize her own voice as it cracked over that one word.

"I'm sorry to intrude," he said. "You're probably busy."

She shook her head, trying not to appear too eager. He was more incredible up close, but damn if she hadn't nailed his eye color in that painting.

***

Hmm...

Check back next week for another installment.

Don't forget to check out Tamaria Soana's blog on Saturday for her next segment.

Taken Identity by Raven McAllan

2012-01-18T14:12:00.000-08:00

New from Noble Romance...

What do you do when a drop dead gorgeous man turns up on your doorstep, demanding his wife? Who, it seems has stolen your identity? Find out why of course.

When Gray Reynard turns up on Jules' doorstep expecting to find his estranged wife and finds her instead both are surprised. Especially as the air between them sizzles. But before they can do anything about that sizzle they need to find out what is going on. Or so they think.

But life doesn't always pan out as you want, and Jules and Gray have to decide whether to work together or walk away from what they are feeling.

Click here for an excerpt.

You can connect with Raven at...

www.ravenmcallan.com

www.ravenmcallan.blogspot.com

Crossfire of Love... Sneak Peek

2012-01-16T19:03:00.000-08:00

Can an arranged marriage lead to love?

***

I haven't started edits yet, but I hear they're coming. I thought today I'd post a little peek into my latest book. Crossfire of Love is set to release on March 19, 2012 with Beachwalk Press.

Here's a look at Chapter One

"We have a guest," Maria said. "Don't be rude."

"Lorenzo," Mrs. Martinez said. "This is Gabriella. She's Ace's daughter and she's recently moved in with him."

"Ace has a daughter? That's unexpected." The boy walked over to the table, grabbed an apple from the fruit bowl and smiled at her.

Gabby looked up at the older boy, but she was too shy to speak. She did notice he'd had the most unique green eyes she'd ever seen. She'd never seen such a cute boy before. His hair was dark and he had unshaven stubble on his cheeks and jaw. She didn’t know any boys who had hair on their face. He was so tall, too. He towered over his mother.

"I have to go." He bit into his apple. "I'm going to Aiden's house after school, so I probably won't be home for dinner."

"Did you clear that with your father?" Mrs. Martinez asked. "You know he likes us all here for dinner when he's available."

"But we never know when he'll be available." He kissed his mother's cheek. "Can you tell him, Mom? Please."

"Fine." She sighed. "Just be home before curfew."

"Thanks. You rock."

"So, I'm told." She laughed. "Be careful. You can't afford another speeding ticket."

"Dad can just buy the judge, I'm fine." He smiled as he glanced down at Gabby. "See you around, kid."

She gave him a small smile as she sat mesmerized by his face. That morning in the kitchen she'd experienced her first crush. Lorenzo Martinez was the cutest boy she'd ever laid eyes on. She'd spend many years scribbling his name in her notebook after that day. Her favorite thing to write was Mrs. Lorenzo Martinez.

Sometimes a girl should be careful what she wished for.

***

FYI - The italic text was a flashback. I kind of started the excerpt in an awkward place.

Follow me here for more sneak peeks into the book. I'll also introduce you to the characters. I'm in love with Lorenzo;)

Meet the Author... Pepper Anthony

2012-01-15T18:12:00.000-08:00

I'm thrilled to welcome my fellow Beachwalk Press author Pepper Anthony to the blog today.

***

What motivates Pepper Anthony, the author? Why do you write?

Wow, what a question! I write because I can’t not write. Sure, there have been periods of time when I had to put my literary aspirations aside, but I have always at least kept a journal, or written newsletters or short stories. I am drawn to the page. It’s really that simple. I bet most serious writers can identity with that.

When did you know you were a writer? Was it always your destiny or did you stumble upon your craft by accident?

Writing is my destiny for sure. At about the age of four my father read the classic Black Beauty to me. I remember asking him how a horse could write a book, and he explained that someone had imagined what a horse would write about. I was enthralled with that idea – that someone can just write down whatever they wish to imagine – and it wasn’t long before I learned to read and then write my own little stories and poems. .

What is your favorite genre to write and why?

I’d have to say that straight contemporary romance is my favorite, the steamier the better. Present-day settings and circumstances help me identify with my characters and their issues. Right now I’m exploring the “interracial” niche of contemporary erotic romance. I enjoy adding in that extra layer of possible conflict that the characters have to work through.

Is there a certain aspect of the story you begin with? Do you create the characters first or do you come up with the plot?

Usually an idea will just hit me and I’ll start with “What if – “. Ideas for stories are everywhere! Once the kernel of an idea occurs to me, I create the characters, their back stories and their main conflict. Then I let them loose to “play together”. I’m always fascinated at the plots my characters come up with.

Tell us about the most intriguing character you've created.

Last year I wrote a short BDSM story for an anthology. The main character is a storyteller in a make believe time and place. Her job is to entertain a depraved old queen with her BDSM tales, in hopes of winning her freedom. I’m very interested in going back and exploring both those characters more in depth. I’m sure the story teller has several more twisted tales that naughty Queen is waiting to hear.

What did you do when you found out your first book had been contracted?

My first piece of contracted writing was an 8K short for an anthology of ménage stories. I just about passed out when I opened that email and saw the contract attached. That’s a rush I never get tired of.

Has there been a person or influence in your life that has helped you reach your writing goals?

I can’t say enough good things about my two critique partners, Amy Lamont and Kaylie Newell. Not only are they great at pointing out (in a kind and constructive way) where my stories need help, but they are wonderful, supportive friends as well. I’ve faced some pretty tough personal challenges this past year, and I hate to think about trying to make it through without them. My family is also very supportive.

Do you have any words of inspiration to aspiring authors? What advice would you offer a writer trying to publish?

The most important thing is to never give up on your dream. Take time off if you have to, but don’t give up. When my second child was diagnosed as a toddler with a form of autism, I had to come to terms with the fact that there would be no time and energy left for my writing. He needed my full attention for many years, including years of homeschooling. Now he is grown and I’ve gotten back to writing. It’s never too late to pick up where you left off. Just don’t let go of that dream.

Tell us about your current release.

Macy’s Awakening, published by Beachwalk press.

Can Macy and Jerrod overcome the differences in their age and race to find lasting love?

On Macy Wilson's first grown-up adventure to the big city, she inadvertently ends up in jail. Her father hires an old college friend, defense attorney Jerrod Preston, to get Macy out of trouble. Jerrod is more than willing to help out his buddy by representing the gorgeous young black woman, but finds he must first battle his intense attraction to her, especially when the judge puts Macy under his protective custody.

Still an innocent at the age of nineteen, Macy ignores the differences in their age and race and sees the opportunity to learn all about sex from the handsome older man. On her second night in his home, a naked midnight rendezvous at the hot tub proves too powerful for either to resist, and Macy is awakened to pleasure like nothing she could have imagined.

But the morning brings feelings of remorse on both their parts. Macy knows her father wouldn't approve, and Jerrod is convinced Macy should be with someone closer to her own age. They settle into an uneasy platonic relationship, both secretly longing for the love that now seems just beyond their grasp.

Then an unforeseen circumstance raises the stakes, and Macy must make the toughest decision of her life. When she lays claim to the man she can't forget, will Jerrod send her away, or dare to open his heart to love once more?

Content Warning: explicit sex

Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/Macys-Awakening-ebook/dp/B005VXNXWI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1326232001&sr=8-1

Do you have any upcoming projects in the works?

I’m currently working on another IR, the story of an embittered, widowed architect and the young woman who comes to help organize his home. The working title is Delsy’s Chance.

Where can readers connect with you?

Website: http://www.PepperAnthony.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001859508548

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/pepperanthony

A little bit about Pepper...

Like most writers, I’ve done a lot of other things along the way—voice actor, artist, bookkeeper, retail sales—but my first, best love has always been writing. Now I’m working toward making that my full time career. I live in a rural area outside Portland, Oregon with my very supportive husband and younger son, and a small menagerie of furry writing assistants. A firm believer in the Law of Attraction, I like to remind my friends: we create in our lives that which we focus most upon. So fill your head with positive, sexy thoughts!

***

Thanks so much for hanging out with us today!

At the Beach Part 2... Ella Jade

2012-01-13T18:33:00.000-08:00

Thanks for checking back in with me. If you missed last week's post, you can find Part 1 here.

Ally wondered what it was about this particular lifeguard that intrigued her so. He was hot, there was no denying it. She'd found herself on more than one occasion taking an early morning stroll down to the beach so she could watch him work-out. He swam for miles at a time, did push-up and sit-ups by the shoreline and ran long and hard down the beach. He'd always end up at his post, by the water directly in front of her house and take his place on the high guard chair.

He was definitely younger than she was. He wasn't jailbait, but he was at least five or six years her junior. She felt like a cougar waiting to pounce as she watched him dedicate an hour each morning to keeping his body muscular and toned. She'd sit by the ocean, pretending to sketch, but she was really memorizing every detail of his fascinating body. She loved the way his blonde hair fell over his eyes and how the water dripped across his shoulders and down his ripped back when he exited the ocean. It made her stomach tingle and her insides throb. She hadn't felt that way in such a long time.

Research, she called it. Eventually she'd finish her secret painting. Even if no one else saw her creation, it could be her very special indulgence. She deserved it. She'd been sad and alone for a year, mourning the death of her husband. She wasn't hurting anyone by losing herself for a few hours a day. There were worse ways to fight depression, and having a little fantasy about a younger, sexy life guard wasn't one of them. Soon the summer would be over and he'd probably go back to his permanent residence. Thanks to her artwork she'd be left with the image she'd preserved on the canvas. No harm, no foul.

She often wondered what her surfer fantasy's name was. He looked like a Keanu or a Dylan, but that was too obvious. She'd wanted to introduce herself or at least say hello. She'd spent almost every day sitting on that beach, just a few feet from where he stood watch. She had worked up the nerve once or twice to smile at him, but then she'd quickly bury her head in a book before he had a chance to reciprocate. Ally feared he wouldn't respond at all and that rejection would crush any pleasant thoughts she'd had of the young cutie. It was better to just pretend and make him who she wanted him to be. It was safer that way.

She made her way to the shower, rinsing the sand and salt water of the day from her skin. She had a few pictures she'd taken that needed to be cropped and processed. She wanted to get them to the publication by the end of the week, but she she'd fallen behind. She was investing entirely too much time on the painting sitting in the corner of her living room.

As the hot, soapy water slid down her body, images of his face clouded her mind. That delicious tingle invaded the area between her thighs. Lately, the ache that settled deep within her core was getting harder to ignore.

***

I'll be back next week and maybe we'll meet her muse.

Check out Kaylie Newell's post on Sunday.

Don't forget to stop by and read the other participating authors...

Passion's Pain - Contract Offer

2012-01-11T15:35:00.000-08:00

I'm thrilled to announce my WIP Passion's Pain received a contract offer from Liquid Silver Books. I started writing this one last February, so to say I'm happy to finally be able to share it, is an understatement. This was one of those stories I really wanted to tell but couldn't figure out how to go about it. I kept putting it on the back burner and waiting for some sort of epiphany. Inspiration finally hit in September.

What took me so long? I created an unconventional triangle. Check out my summary and you'll see why I had my work cut out for me. I like where I ended up. This is also my longest story to date. Without the professional editor it clocks in at almost 80k.

Passion's Pain

One woman…two men. Who will she choose? The father or the son?

Lilli Daniels has been down on her luck for quite some time. She's been homeless, hungry and alone for far too long. When an intriguing, older stranger enters the strip club where she's waitressing her life takes on a new direction.

Successful attorney Jackson Avis maintains complete control of every aspect in his life. When he lays eyes on the beautiful, young Lilli he's captivated and has to have her. He tempts her with a life of privilege and security. He introduces her to a world she never knew existed. Complications arise when Jackson's son and aspiring doctor Cameron expresses an interest in his father's girlfriend.

Lilli fights the attraction, but Cameron wants to give into his heart's desire. He's the complete opposite of his controlling, manipulative father and will stop at nothing to protect the woman he's falling in love with.

Sometimes life leads you down one path only to bring you to your true destiny. Can Lilli come to terms and figure out exactly who her heart belongs to?

***

Earlier this week I talked about finding my inspiration. I use lots of imagery when I write. I like to look at pretty, sexy pictures. Sometimes those pictures trigger a full novel. Passion's Pain is one of those stories where I saw a picture and created a plot around it. The picture has nothing to do with the story, but when I saw this, my mind conjured up a plot. Here's the picture...

Stay tuned for details.

Ella

xoxo

Make Me Stay - New WIP

2012-01-09T20:17:00.000-08:00

Inspiration comes in strange places. I know many writers have music playing when they create. I've often said I need total silence when writing. Some of my best work gets written when everyone else in the house is asleep. It isn't that I don't like music. I love it. I just can't have it on when I'm writing.

Anyway, I was in the shower the other day (that's where some of my best ideas are born) and I was humming the Katy Perry song The One That Got Away. Don't know why but that tune has been stuck in my head for days. Maybe now there was a reason. As I sang the lyrics, I started thinking about a new story. It came out of nowhere. And quite frankly, has nothing to do with the song, at least not directly. But something in my subconscious made me create the story when I thought about the song. I'm not complaining. I've written 10K in two days.

Here's a little peek...

The story begins two and a half years later when Gracie returns a new woman. She disappeared to the city and found a "Master" who showed her what she was truly capable of. Now she's back and she wants to show Cade exactly what kind of submissive she could be for him. After five minutes of being together, they have explosive sex and Cade is left wondering why Gracie brings out this side of him.

***

Yeah, see I don't know what that song had to do with a D/s relationship either, but I got a book out of it. I just go with it. Inspiration and all...

Stay Inspired!

Ella

photo taken from http://photobucket.com/profile/deadnightwish/index