Spotlight – Elemental Magic series

19 Tuesday Aug 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Brynna Curry, Earth Enchanted, Elemental Magic series, Fire’s Ice, Sea’s Sorceress, To Take Up The Sword, Wait for the Wind

Now we’re going to look at Brynna Curry’s “Elemental Magic” series, including TWO great sneak peeks.

*****

Earth Enchanted

by Brynna Curry

Blurb:

Writer Liv Corrigan has the worst luck with men — her telepathy tends to make them run for the hills. When she meets widower and ex-cop Jack Roarke, she decides to keep her talent hidden. Things are looking up until their third date crashes and burns as the man who murdered Jack’s wife turns out to be after him too.

Injured, Jack retreats with Liv to his house under armed guard. But with Liv’s mysteries rapidly coming unraveled, a diamond-thief killer to stop and passion in the air, the safe house is anything but safe for their hearts!

Series Buy Links (Now only $.99 each)

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Kobo│Kensington

*****

First meet between Hero and Heroine

Jack scanned the bookstore as he sat in the hard metal folding chair, at the small table, and wrote. He thought his hand would fall off. Whoever said writing wasn’t real work had to have been crazy. He knew things about two hours’ worth of people their mothers probably didn’t know. Mandy Lou something or other had a granny who thought he was grade A and she was his number one fan. She didn’t look old enough to be allowed to read his brand of horror, but she had two copies of each of his books.

Jack had politely—he hoped—shrugged off the forty invitations to dinner, fourteen offers for coffee, and two very indecent proposals for ‘wild, hanging from the chandelier sex’ to quote one lovely fan. All in all, a long day barely described it, but he’d seen people and observed, that was for sure. If it helped with the new book, it might have been worth it, and then again maybe not.

Ellie dropped by to see how things were going, and then promptly ran away when he tried to beg out. He didn’t like being maneuvered, and Ellie was a champion at it. Entertaining the notion of strangling her got him through the second hour, but considering he needed a good editor, he changed his mind.

The line grew shorter. While he juggled the newest Hastings baby on his knee, which the boy’s proud papa had insisted on, Jack inscribed a message in the front cover to Mrs. Hastings, another number one fan and the mother of six children all under ten. How does she have the time to read at all? His message to her read, “Mrs. Hastings, I’m your number one fan. You rule. Jack.” Mentally saluting her efforts, he passed back junior, and sent them on their way. He automatically reached for the book a slim hand offered. Eyes down on the cover of what he’d created, he said the same thing he’d told countless others. “Hi, who should I make this out to?”

“Just sign it to Olivia Corrigan, fellow mystery writer.”

Her voice alone lifted his eyes to meet hers, a musical lilt that teased of mist and bogs, faeries and leprechauns. She was dressed professionally, but he could easily imagine her calling up a wild wind or casting spells. She was only about 5’4” and slim, claimed black Irish coloring. He saw a flash of what might have been a premonition, but after blocking the gift so long he couldn’t hold on to it. Did he smell rain? Candles or lightning? But the sun was shining. For a moment he just stared, couldn’t speak , and was certain he knew her but couldn’t remember where from.

“Is something the matter?”

He quickly signed her book, before he forgot that was the reason for their meeting in the first place. She was the last in line, and he was free. Thank God! Sorry, muse, position filled.

“Jack Roarke, it’s a pleasure, Miss Corrigan.”

*****

Author Info:

Brynna Curry was born south of the Mason-Dixon Line. After living all over the southern states, she finally landed in North Alabama where she lives with her husband and their three children. Growing up, books fueled her dreams and imagination, ultimately becoming her salvation during the hardest times in her life.Writing is her passion, but she enjoys the fun of sharing those stories with others by reviewing books and working in publicity.

When she isn’t writing or promoting, she’s often found haunting the library for new books to read or just spending an quiet evening at home with Jackie watching old westerns on TV. Although her wizards, shifters and vampires are as real to her as anyone, she insists love is the truest magic and with it every day is another wonderful adventure.

Brynna’s Links:

Website│Twitter│Facebook│Street Team│Goodreads

*****

Exclusive Excerpt:

Laughter echoed out of the little cottage as Ryan looked through the kitchen into the living room, wishing he had called first. Not yet, he wasn’t ready. Liv sat on the sofa with a tea cup in her hand, her feet propped up on Jack’s lap. Jack absently rubbed her ankles. She had her back to Ryan.

Kate sat across from Liv in a puffy chair by the fireplace. They had a fire going, as the weather was cool this time of year. The memory of Kate lying in front of another roaring fire pushed to the front of his mind and tormented him. Gone were the wisps of long blond hair. She’d cut it in a more practical short, sunny cap that framed her slender face, giving her a pixie-like quality. No longer was she the girl who’d walked away from him–Kate was a grown woman. A gorgeous woman, he amended. Slender as a reed, and Ryan wondered if she still carried herself with a sexy air as if she owned the world. Her white lab coat reminded him of the years and pain between them. Stop it. She murdered your child. He swallowed hard, gave a cursory knock on the door and walked into his sister’s house.

Stepping into the room, for just a moment he let his eyes unerringly lock onto Kate’s. Ryan saw surprise and joy there, along with an aging that didn’t belong. Heat surged through him, a flame hot enough to burn a man. The memories all came flooding back too, until he was reeling from them, but years of hiding emotion allowed him to show her only indifference. He gave a polite nod to her and watched the light in her eyes fade a little. Squashing the pity, the joy, and yes most of the heat, Ryan pulled the door closed behind him.

“What? No welcome home party?”

Liv squealed and jumped up to hug him as quickly as her pregnant body would allow. “Ryan! Oh, you’re home! I’m so glad. Have you been to see Ma? Skye will be out on the cliffs by now, or maybe the pub. Jack, look! Ryan’s home!”

Jack laughed at her enthusiasm and walked over to him. “Hey, Ryan. Welcome home.”

Ryan peeled his sister away long enough to shake Jack’s hand.

“Hi, Jack. Always a hundred questions with you, Liv, isn’t it?” He was surprised he could laugh and mean it. “Yes, I just left there. The house looks good, Jack. Thank you for looking out for Ma.”

“Molly’s an amazing lady. I love her to pieces.” Jack took Liv’s hand and led her back to the sofa.

“I’ll go down to the pub later. How have you been? When are you due?”

Liv curled her feet on Jack’s lap, while Ryan took the chair opposite them next to the fire. “We’re due in about a month.”

“And the baby?”

“Is doing well and so is the little mother. Let me add my welcome, Ryan.” Kate shifted in her seat and crossed her ankles.

He had a mental flash of her slim and pale, rising above him in the moonlight. Impossibly blue eyes burning through his, then he killed the memory like a spider

*****

Giveaway:

$10 Amazon or B&N gift card to be given away on 10/1 during the kickoff of 31 Days of Halloween

1 digital copy of series

3 digital copies of Earth Enchanted

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*****

Elemental Magic Series

Tour Banner

Earth Enchanted

Elemental Magic #1

To Take Up The Sword

Elemental Magic #2

Missing diamonds and a killer on the loose…will a schoolteacher and FBI agent escape with their lives and hearts intact?

After the acquittal of Gueraldi’s right hand and favored killer for hire, Ashton Smythe, Special Agent Gabriel Spiller takes time away from his work with the FBI. Having failed in his mission to avenge his lost would be lover, Serena Roarke, Gabe returns to Alabama in search of the missing diamonds needed to reopen the investigation and to lay low from the death threats he’s received since Smythe went free.

Almost two years after her sister’s death, Leannan O’Neal feels the loss of Serena more now than ever. A secret meeting between them before she died left Lea with an ugly figurine and nothing but questions. Hang-up calls at work and a trashed house reminds her of the card Serena gave her. “If you find yourself in trouble, go to him and only him” were the last words her sister spoke to her.

With Smthye out for revenge and hot on her heels, Lea goes on the run in search of Serena’s ‘Angel’, but how long can Gabe keep her alive, and is the cost worth more than her life?

Wait for the Wind

Elemental Magic #3

Kate O’Connell grew up loved by the Corrigan family, all the while suffering from the inescapable reality of her own alcoholic father. At a young age she gave her heart and innocence to Ryan Corrigan. For once happiness seemed within her reach, until in one horror-filled night, the monster she called ‘Daddy’ changed everything.

Too many misunderstandings forced Kate and Ryan apart, but now Kate’s come home to open her clinic and raise her daughter, Allaina, closer to his family. Will she be able to open Ryan’s heart to his magic?

Ryan is glad to be back on Irish soil, but the reason he left still haunts him. As he tries to build a new life and redeem his past, can he forgive Kate and reclaim his healing gift in time to save his sister and her twins?

Sea’s Sorceress

Elemental Magic #4

Love can come along at the most inconvenient times…

Skye Corrigan treasures family above all else. Standing by his best friend Rhia while she suffers the heartache of losing her father to cancer has strengthened their childhood bond. Lately Rhia affects him in ways she never has before.

Rhiannon O’Malley shares Skye’s past and hopes for a future with him, but love must come with a willing heart. Her father’s terminal illness has left her in charge of the family pub. Skye has always been there for her, but when their relationship changes, will she find the courage to claim the future? Or will a thousand-year-old curse keep its grip on two hostage hearts?

Fire’s Ice

Elemental Magic #5 (series end)

Ultimate power, or endless love?

Born the son of a Scottish laird a thousand years ago, but now trapped by his cousin’s spell, Devin McLoch has seen countless battles and death. The erstwhile thief has turned away from darker pursuits to lead a life of peace, protecting those he loves and considers part of his clan.
However, there is one woman he can never forget, who must be given a chance to change, to accept her heart and his.

Arianne Farrell is just as dangerous and intoxicating as her power. Imprisoned in an ancient stone dance more than a thousand years ago, her only chance at freedom from the spell is through love—a love she denied. When Devin asks for her aid to save another from imminent death, she realizes there is more at stake than just her freedom or her heart.

Spotlight – Seducing Lauren

19 Tuesday Aug 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Kristen Proby, Love Under the Big Sky series, Seducing Lauren

Releasing today is the second book in Kristen Proby’s “Love Under the Big Sky” series. Check out the details below, including a great sneak peek and a cool giveaway.

*****

Seducing Lauren

by Kristen Proby

Blurb:

In the second book in the Love Under the Big Sky series from this NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY bestselling author of the With Me in Seattle series, life in Montana gets spicy when a woman and her divorce lawyer sign off the papers—and sign on to love.

Now that his best friend, Josh, has happily settled down with his true love on a Montana ranch, small-town lawyer Ty Sullivan starts thinking that maybe single life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. And when Lauren Cunningham’s no-good ex-husband comes after her for an unexpected trust fund, Ty steps in to protect her. But soon he can’t help but think of her as more than a client. Lauren’s in no mood to jump into another relationship, so how can Ty convince her that her mistake wasn’t getting married, but marrying the wrong guy?

And don’t forget to read the first book in the Love Under the Big Sky Series…

BUY LINKS:

*****

Excerpt:

As I approach his house, I see his Jeep parked in the drive, the hood up, and a tight, jean-clad ass bent over the side.

Okay, he’s definitely home.

I tentatively wander around the other side of the Jeep and lean against the side, looking at the engine. He hasn’t noticed that I’m here yet, and I’m not even sure how he’ll react to seeing me here, but I can’t seem to stay away. His dark head is bent low, his arms buried in the engine, tinkering with something. His arms are bare as he’s pulled off his T-shirt, which is draped over the windshield. A thin sheen of sweat covers his shoulders and back, and his entire sleeve tattoo, which runs from just above his wrist all the way up to the top of his right shoulder, is on full display, making my girlie parts all tingle and come to life.

Holy Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.

He’s so fucking toned it’s crazy. Jeez, his muscles bunch and stretch as he pulls on the wrench in his hand.

“Come on, you motherfucker,” he mutters. I have to bite my lips to keep from laughing out loud.

“So, what seems to be the problem?” I finally ask when he doesn’t notice me, keeping my eyes trained on the engine when his head whips up to look at me. I slowly lift my eyes to his and grin.

“I didn’t hear your car,” he murmurs with a smile.

“I walked.” I shrug and look back down into the bowels of his Jeep. “What’s wrong with your car?”

“You walked from your house?” he asks incredulously.

“No.” I shake my head and chuckle. “From Sips. I had coffee with Cara this morning.”

He stands up straight and leans his palms on the side of the Jeep, watching me. My eyes immediately fall to one drop of sweat slowly making its way down his hard chest.

“You had coffee with Cara?” He smiles.

“Yeah.” I shrug shyly. “I’m sorry to just stop by like this. I was out for a walk and just sort of found myself here.” I feel my cheeks heat and I back away, but he shakes his head and smiles widely.

“I’m glad you came by.” He raises his brows as I continue to stare.

I shake my head and raise my eyes to his, then bust out laughing.

“Why are you laughing?” he asks with a wide grin.

“Because I don’t think I’ve ever seen you without a shirt. I didn’t realize the tats went all the way up your arm. Who would have thought that under it all you’re just a bad boy?”

His eyes flash with heat as he narrows them on my face, watching me. He pulls a rag out of his back pocket and begins wiping off his hands, but his gray eyes stay on mine. Did I offend him?

“I’m not such a bad boy. Looks can be deceiving, Lauren.” He smirks as he lowers the hood on his Jeep. “But from the look of you right now, you don’t seem to mind the tats.”

“I don’t mind.” I shrug nonchalantly and try to ignore the way my heart picks up speed as he slowly saunters around the hood of the vehicle.

“Do you have any tats?”

“Yeah.”

His eyes widen in surprise and then rake over me from head to toe.

“Where?”

I grin, enjoying this flirtatious banter. “Here and there.”

“I have ways of making people talk, you know.”

“Bright lights and rubber hoses?” I ask with a raised brow.

He tosses his head back and laughs, an all-out belly laugh. “I’m not a cop,” he smirks.

“You might get to see them. Someday.”

He closes the gap between us and kisses me gently on the forehead, not touching me anywhere else.

“I hope someday comes sooner rather than later,” he whispers before pulling back and smiling softly down at me. “I would hug you, but I’m dirty.”

I wave him off, as if it’s no biggie, although I don’t mind so much that he’s a bit dirty and sweaty. “What were you doing?” I gesture to the car.

“Changing the oil.”

“There are places you can go,” I inform him with a perfectly straight face, “where you pull into this big garage, and then you leave your car and go into this small room with five-year-old magazines and stale coffee, and the people there will change your oil for you.”

“Or, smart-ass, I can do it myself in my own driveway.”

“Suit yourself.” I shrug.

“Did you sleep okay on the couch?” he asks, changing the subject.

“Yeah, actually, I did. But I could always sleep just about anywhere.”

“Hence the chaise in your office.” He chuckles.

I nod and stuff my hands in my pockets. “I’m sorry that I interrupted your morning. I was just out for a walk and found myself here.”

“I’m glad you did.” He scratches his stomach, and my eyes follow the movement. His abs are just delicious. For being so dark haired, he has little hair on his chest and stomach, but a light trail of hair falls from his navel and disappears into his jeans. He’s also sporting a V in the muscles on his hips that the heroes in my novels would covet.

“Lo?” he asks with a wide grin.

“Yeah?” I drag my eyes up to his again.

“I lost you for a second.”

I blink rapidly and feel heat fill my cheeks. Jesus, get a grip! You’ve seen hot men before, Lauren. “Sorry, my mind wandered.”

*****

Author Info:

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Kristen Proby is the author of the bestselling With Me In Seattle series. She has a passion for a good love story and strong characters who love humor and have a strong sense of loyalty and family. Her men are the alpha type; fiercely protective and a bit bossy, and her ladies are fun, strong, and not afraid to stand up for themselves.

Kristen spends her days with her muse in the Pacific Northwest. She enjoys coffee, chocolate and sunshine. And naps.

Links:

Website: http://www.kristenproby.com/

Twitter: @handbagjunkie

Facebook: www.facebook.com/booksbykristenproby

Author Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/kristenproby

SEDUCING LAUREN Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18123205-seducing-lauren?ac=1

*****

Giveaway:

Signed set of Loving Cara and Seducing Lauren, necklace and swag

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/9172c1a0185/

*****

Blitz – Kidnapping the Brazilian Tycoon

18 Monday Aug 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Carmen Falcone, Kidnapping the Brazilian Tycoon

Let’s kick off our week with the SIZZLING Kidnapping the Brazilian Tycoon ….

*****

Kidnapping the Brazilian Tycoon

by Carmen Falcone

Publication Date: August 18th

Genres: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis:

Passion was never in the bargain

Addison Reed lost her fiancé, but she’ll do whatever it takes to protect his legacy. When the gorgeous and arrogant landowner, Brazilian billionaire Bruno Duarte, who is thwarting her at every turn, refuses to meet with her, she puts her plan into action.

He will listen to her

Bruno’s plan was simple: return to Brazil and marry to fulfill his father’s dying wish. But when his engagement crumbles, and he’s then stranded with an idealistic woman hell-bent on saving a tribe of people on his land, he sees the perfect solution. If his feisty and passionate abductor agrees to a bogus marriage, he’ll relocate the tribe.

With the Brazilian heat rivaling the growing heat of their desire, will Bruno and Addison abandon their respective plans and give in to each other, or will their differences tear them apart?

Goodreads | B&N | Amazon | Kobo

*****

Excerpt:

“If you want to sleep with someone, just be discreet about it. But don’t lie to me. I can’t stand lies.” Her voice trembled at first and gained strength at the end.

He couldn’t help the way his lips curled into a smile. “I do want to sleep with someone.”

She bit her lip and nodded with quiet dignity. “Thank you for your honesty.”

“I won’t be the least discreet about it.” He stepped closer, feasting on the shape of her luscious lips, the vein pulsing on her neck. “In fact, when it does happen, we’ll need soundproof walls.”

Not wanting to miss her reaction, he stared into her eyes and enjoyed the blend of surprise and surrender in them. Her ragged breath overpowered the sound of faraway crickets and frogs. He had promised not to kiss her, and he hadn’t. But, by God, he hadn’t promised not to touch her. Not to share every filthy thought that crossed his mind.

Without being able to resist, he closed the remaining gap between them. With slightly trembling fingers, he outlined the waves of her hair ever so carefully. Maintaining control proved a hard task, and he feared if she responded, he would pull her against him and kiss her with the lust lodged in his throat.

“That’s exaggerating.”

“Not for what I have in mind.” He stroked her cheek with the back of his hand. She gasped, and he smothered a groan. Every time she was near him, his resolve to keep her at an arm’s length evaporated. With her eyelashes shadowing her freckled cheeks and pink, parted lips, Addie’s state of arousal confirmed what her words tried to mask—she wanted him.

He dipped his head down, coming close to breaking his promise not to kiss her unless she verbally asked him.

*****

Author Info:

Carmen Falcone learned at an early age that fantasizing about fictional characters beats doing math homework any day. Brazilian by birth and traveler by nature, she moved to Central Texas after college and met her broody Swiss husband—living proof that opposites attract. She found in writing her deepest passion and the best excuse to avoid the healthy lifestyle everyone keeps talking about. When she’s not lost in the world of romance, she enjoys spending time with her two kids, being walked by her three crazy pugs, reading, catching up with friends, and chatting with random people in the checkout line.

She loves to procrastinate, so please indulge her and drop her a line at carmenauthor@yahoo.com.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

Media Contact:

IndieSage PR www.indiesage.com

*****

Giveaway:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/5440a354114

Spotlight – What a Lady Craves

08 Friday Aug 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Ashlyn Macnamar, Book Review, What a Lady Craves

Now it’s time for Ashlyn Macnamara’s newest historical romance, What a Lady Craves.

*****

What a Lady Craves

Written by Ashlyn Macnamara

Published by Loveswept

August 19, 2014

ISBN: 978-0-553-39253-1

WHAT A LADY CRAVES on Goodreads

Blurb:

Ashlyn Macnamara weaves a delicious tale of two souls torn apart by circumstance and reunited by fate—perfect for fans of Julia Quinn, Eloisa James, and Sabrina Jeffries.

Henrietta Upperton is about to marry Alexander Sanford when he rushes off to India to salvage his family’s fortune. Then comes the devastating news that he has wed another. Eight agonizing years later, a storm washes Alexander ashore—injured, widowed, and hunted—and one glimpse of his ruggedly handsome face reawakens the desire Henrietta thought she had buried deep inside. Her body still yearns for his touch, but she’s determined not let him wound her again . . . not this time.

For Alexander, honor always comes first. But only now does he realize that when given the choice between two virtuous deeds, he picked the wrong one. On the run with his life in tatters and a pair of daughters in tow, Alexander burns for Henrietta. He knows he does not deserve forgiveness. And yet he longs to wrap his arms around her warm body once again. What’s more, he is sure the lady craves the same.

Get your copy of WHAT A LADY CRAVES

*****

Excerpt:

(from Chapter Two)

“Damn him. Damn him to hell.” A sharp gust off the sea ripped the invective from Henrietta’s lips.

The gray waters of the English Channel hissed over pebbles in an even rhythm that ought to have soothed after a sleepless night. They did nothing for her, nor did a lungful of salt-laden air. Bracing—that’s what they called this sort of predawn cold. It was meant to straighten one’s spine, stiffen one’s upper lip, and urge one forward. But her temper stood firm in the face of the steady headwind off the waves.

Damn him. Why did he have to come back still possessing the power to devastate her just as when she’d first laid eyes on him? Then, he’d done so with nothing more than his handsome features. Something about his somber expression had reached out and wrapped itself about her heart the night of her coming-out ball. She’d never believed he’d approach her among all the other hopefuls, and yet he had. He’d passed over a beauty like Sophia St. Claire and claimed Henrietta Upperton for a dance.

She closed her eyes against a memory of him—of Alexander—broad shoulders filling out a stark black topcoat, sand-colored hair falling in careless spiky locks, gray eyes sparking with interest. Unlike his friends, he’d never been a man given to easy smiles, but his square jaw, sharp cheekbones, and sculpted lips had drawn her gaze.

Then he’d led her to the dance floor and drawn her into a reel. His hand, large and steady every time they clasped, seemed to burn an imprint into her palm. Each separation left her breathless with anticipation for the moment when the dance brought them together again. Was she imagining his fingers lingering a moment too long? The slightest contact seemed magnified. All too soon, the music came to an end, and she had to recover from the sensation of soaring amid the other couples. He bowed low over her hand and promised to call, before leaving her with her mother, and she stood for the next few dances, the ghost of his lips tingling on the back of her hand, and a low pulse thrumming deep in her belly.

He kept his promise the following day. Before too many weeks had passed, he’d captured her heart.

No. She would not dwell on the pain that came afterward. But calling a more recent image to mind was hardly better. The intervening years had graven lines at the corners of his eyes and deepened the creases along his forehead. One might read such lines like a book of sorrows if one was so inclined.

Not that she was. Oh, no. She would not fall prey to that man once again. She would not allow the desire he’d awakened within her to overcome her reason a second time.

*****

Author Info:

Ashlyn Macnamara is the author of A Most Scandalous Proposal. She lives in the wilds of suburbia outside of Montreal with her husband and two teenage daughters. When not writing, she looks for other excuses to neglect the housework, among them knitting, reading, and wasting time on the Internet in the guise of doing research.

Connect with Ashlyn

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Connect with Loveswept

Website | Facebook | Twitter

*****

Giveaway:

$25 egiftcard + Loveswept mug and tote

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/235babe788/

*****

Review:

I have to be honest, I thought Alexander was a bit delusional. He gets himself engaged to Henrietta but then has to leave to try to make money so he can support his family, ends up married to someone else for 8 years without proper explanation, then comes home with kids in tow (but no wife), and thinks that Henrietta is just going to let it go and marry him … really? He’s surprised that she’s not going to forgive him that easily? They are hardly together more than 5 minutes before he’s suggesting they get married … and he keeps doing it, without so much as an attempt to explain his behavior.

The rest of them are good – Henrietta seems to have a solid head on her shoulders (although she does waffle a bit on her feelings for Alexander), the girls are adorable, and Alexander’s great-aunt is a hoot and a half. And I thought that the mystery of what was going on around him – the fact that those close to him keep dying and that someone has followed him home from India – was captivating and very well done. But after about the third proposal I had to shake my head at his idiocy. If you can overlook it, though, What a Lady Craves has a lot of other redeeming things about it and I found plenty to keep me reading to the last page.

*****

Click on the banner to check out the rest of the tour

Spotlight – Game Changer

08 Friday Aug 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Collette West, Game Changer

First up we get to take another look at Game Changer, complete with a new excerpt.

*****

Game Changer

by Collette West

Publication Date: July 25, 2014

Genres: Contemporary, Romance, Sports

Purchase from: Amazon

Add to Goodreads

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Blurb:

Young, rich, and unaware of how seriously hot he is, Brooks Davison is tearing it up as the latest shortstop for the New York Kings, despite his tendency to blush whenever girls scream his name.

When a health scare forces his best friend, Kyle Roberts, off the team, no one can stomach the thought of replacing him, especially so close to the playoffs.

Until Kyle’s sister, Sasha, steps in, convincing management to let her take his place. The idea of signing the first female player in Major League history proves too tempting for the Kings to resist.

Nevertheless, Brooks doesn’t want any part of it. Sasha is Kyle’s little sister, not some sideshow.

Yet when Kyle takes a turn for the worse, Brooks promises to do everything in his power to help Sasha win a championship for him. Because there’s no way he’s letting either of them down. Not now, not ever.

*****

Excerpt:

About an hour later, she opens the bathroom door with a towel wrapped around her body. She takes a step back when she sees that I’m still lying in bed, where I was dozing to the

whir of her blow-dryer.

“What are you still doing here?” she shrieks. “There’s no way you’ll be able to sneak back to your room now. The other guys will be up and moving around and you’re all the way down at the end of the hall.”

She looks panic stricken, like the world’s going to end if I get caught leaving her room after spending the night with her. But for me, it’s no walk of shame. I couldn’t be prouder of where I laid my head last night.

She shoots me a frazzled look, grabbing a pair of jeans and a striped top that was folded the way I’d taught her on the dresser, and strides back into the steam-filled bathroom to get dressed, slamming the door.

That didn’t go very well. But it makes me chuckle and wonder what it’s going to be like to live with her someday. I have a feeling that she’ll keep me on my toes.

A few minutes later, she barges out, sliding her feet into a pair of sandals with a towering heel, tossing the strap of her cross-body bag over her head. I enjoy sitting back and watching her get ready as she peers in the mirror, slipping a delicate pair of silver hoops into her ears before placing sunglasses on top of her head. Her allure is so natural that she doesn’t even realize how devastatingly attractive she is.

“Are you ready?” She turns around, raising an eyebrow in my direction.

“As ready as I’ll ever be,” I respond without even the slightest hint of sarcasm, getting out of bed.

“What are you up to?” She eyes me warily, her hand on the door handle as I shuffle up behind her.

“You’ll see.” I wink at her, bestowing a kiss on top of her hair.

She shakes her head, opening the door and peeking out before quickly ducking back inside. “Shit, Drake is holding court with Scott and Colton by the elevator. You’re never gonna get out of here without them seeing you.”

“Go ahead,” I urge as she looks up at me in surprise. “It’s time to face the music.”

*****

Author Info:

Collette West grew up as somewhat of a jock-nerd hybrid. Entering the world three weeks premature, her dad nearly missed her birth because he had seats behind the dugout for a sold-out, highly-anticipated match-up between two of baseball’s biggest rivals. Not to be outdone, her book-loving mom taught her how to read by the time she was three. A love of the game coupled with an appreciation for the written word were instilled in Collette’s impressionable brain from a young age. No wonder her characters believe in the philosophy: sports + romance = a little slice of heaven.

Splitting her time between the Pocono Mountains and Manhattan, Collette indulges her inner fangirl by going to as many games as she can from hockey to baseball and downloading every sports romance novel in existence onto her iPad. When she’s not clicking away on her laptop, she enjoys walking her dog in Central Park, satisfying her caffeine craving at the Starbucks on Broadway and keeping an eye out for Mr. Right. But above all, she loves dishing with her readers. Email her at collette_west@yahoo.com.

She is the author of NIGHT GAMES and GAME CHANGER.

Website • Blog • Twitter • Facebook • Goodreads

*****

Giveaway:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/5440a35488/

*****

Spotlight – Sleeping Beauty and the Demon

07 Thursday Aug 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Marina Myles, Sleeping Beauty and the Demon, The Cursed Princes series

First up this morning we’re going to look at the newest in The Cursed Princes series – perfect for those who like historical, paranormal or fairy tale romances. And we get a look at the first chapter!

*****

Sleeping Beauty and the Demon

The Cursed Princes Book 4

by Marina Myles

Genre: Historical/paranormal romance

Publisher: eKensington

Date of Publication: August 7, 2014

ISBN: 9781601832818

ASIN:B00IUPCLWW

Word Count: 75,000

Blurb:

Sleight Of Hand

Dragomir Starkov poses as an illusionist, a showman performing tricks, his Romanian accent and dark good looks all just a part of the drama. That’s how Rose Carlisle first sees him. She’s a respectable girl—she wouldn’t accept witchy birthday gifts from a demon.

But the hustle and bustle of 1912 New York City offers plenty of ways to slip around the strict old rules of propriety. A good thing, too, because once Rose meets Drago, she no longer cares about being respectable.

But the only illusion in Drago’s act is that his magic is smoke and mirrors. Every word of power he speaks is as real as Rose before him, in thrall to his lust and adoration. Drago knows about Rose’s curse, that she will die on her next birthday.

But the shadowy threat that stalks her hasn’t won her yet. If she can trust him, perhaps he can save her too…

Available at Amazon | BN | Kobo | iTunes | Google Play Books

*****

Excerpt:

CHAPTER ONE

New York City

1912

A torrential downpour bounced off the sloping roof of the Sunshine Theater. Inside the auditorium, an eager audience sat riveted by Dragomir Starkov’s onstage presence.

Dressed in black, he moved with confidence. With his hair slicked back from a widow’s peak and his eyes drawing the crowd into his mirage, he spoke in a heavy, Romanian accent. “Ladies and gentlemen, I will now attempt something few magicians dare. I will bring a creature back to life.”

Turning to the rear of the stage, he hid his hands from view. When he faced the audience again, he presented the body of what appeared to be a dead kitten. The small animal hung limply across his open palm. Murmuring a low chant, he waved it from one side of the stage to the other. Then, with a flick of his white-gloved fingers, he urged the kitten back to life.

The small cat sat up erect and blinked in astonishment. As it let out a satisfied “meow,” it sprang to the floor.

The audience clapped wildly. In turn, Drago stepped forward. That’s when he spotted the woman he had willed to come to tonight’s show.

With an abundance of flaxen hair that swayed from a ponytail like wheat in a summer breeze, and a flawless complexion that glowed against the stage’s low-lying gaslights, the young woman’s beauty imprisoned Drago like a padlock. In the sparkle of her violet eyes he saw something amazing—a unique essence of goodness that compelled him as he often compelled

She’s even more beautiful than she was in my vision.

The girl flashed him a smile—and when it illuminated his world of darkness like a bright spotlight, the need to protect and possess her rose within him. But it didn’t matter how he felt. He was here to banish a cruel curse cast upon her when she was a baby. And if he wanted to weave his unique spell around her, he needed to hypnotize her now.

A hush fell over the theater. Clasping his hands behind his back, Drago paced the stage like a caged animal. “For my next trick, I need a female volunteer from the audience.”

Numerous hands went up. He ignored them. Once he unlaced his dark cape, he threw it into the wings. “I need a very special participant for this mystifying trick.”

Pressing his forefinger to his temple, he pretended to use his powers of telepathy. Just then, the beautiful blond girl left her seat, accompanied by her dark-haired friend. They scurried to the theater’s center aisle, apparently adverse to the thought of being called on to volunteer.

“You there!” Drago thundered.

The duo froze in their tracks and wheeled around.

Pulling on her thick, blond ponytail, Rose—her name popped into Drago’s head suddenly—blushed.

“You, my dear.” He galloped halfway down the staircase at the side of the stage and extended his hand.

“Go on, Rose!” her friend encouraged. Drago was right about her name.

Rose smoothed her gingham dress. She joined him on the shadowed staircase, then took his hand. As Drago grasped it, an alarming chill raced up his spine. And when her pink lips spread into another shy smile, he found himself completely enchanted.

Leading her to center stage he said, “Please tell the audience your name, Miss.”

“It’s Rose Carlisle.”

“Have we ever met before, Rose?”

“No.”

“If you don’t mind, I’d like to tell the spectators how old you are.”

“I don’t know how you could guess that, but very well,” she replied in a sweet, clear voice.

He cleared his throat. “Today is your birthday, and you are twenty years old.” The number surfaced in his mind as surely as he knew his own birthday.

Rose’s jaw dropped open. She nodded vigorously. “How did you know?” Her friend, who had returned to her seat in the front row, mirrored her stunned expression.

Drago felt his affinity for the doe-eyed beauty grow. Yet he urged himself to be careful—and to make her feel as comfortable with him as possible.

“It doesn’t take a magician to see that you’ve attended this show without your parents’ permission,” he said. “Is that right, Miss Carlisle?”

The crowd chuckled lightly at the joke. Rose looked stunned. “I haven’t seen my parents since I was a baby. But my adoptive parents don’t know I’m here.”

“I see,” Drago remarked lightheartedly. But when he saw Rose clutching her hands together nervously, he sensed her pain ran deep.

“Have you ever been a magician’s assistant?”

“No,” Rose replied. “In fact, this is my first magic show.”

“We’ll have to make it one you’ll never forget.”

When he reached for her small, velvet hand, it trembled inside his at the suggestion.

“Promise me you won’t be anxious,” he said. “I would never allow harm to come to you.”

She slid a glance his way—and they locked eyes for what felt like an eternity.

“I’ll try not to be nervous,” she finally promised. “What do I have to do?”

“Absolutely nothing. Just close your lovely eyes and remain in one spot.”

Rose did as she was told. Drago took the opportunity to study her high cheekbones, dainty mouth, and hourglass figure. Though she was tall, her demeanor lent her a fragile air. She seemed to him a delicate, porcelain doll which could be broken easily if handled improperly.

Frowning, he tried to concentrate on performing his illusion. While Rose kept her eyes closed, he massaged the air in front of him with his fingertips. As he murmured something inaudible, he willed Rose’s feet to rise slowly off the ground.

It appeared as if someone was pulling her legs out from under her. Eventually, her torso, limbs, and head reached a plane parallel to the stage and she was levitating in space.

The crowd gasped as Drago reached for a large silver hoop. He proceeded to pass the circle back and forth over Rose’s stiff body. When he twisted and turned it in every direction, the audience gasped. The trick, which had been performed only one time before, proved it had the power to intrigue.

“Are you doing all right, Rose?” Drago asked in a gentle voice.

She nodded. Her ponytail swung toward the wooden floor.

“Excellent.” Drago passed the silver hoop to his brunette assistant, Katherine. “Ladies and gentlemen, I have a confession to make. The second half of this trick is new even to me. However, it’s something I feel bold enough to try with Miss Carlisle’s help.”

Drago’s assistant cast him an angry look. He continued on anyway. “Katherine, would you hand me that red silk drape?” he asked.

Clearly irritated, Katherine moved to the tiny prop table in the corner. Once she passed a large cloth to Drago, he unfolded it and draped it over the length of Rose’s levitating body.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” he said in a low tone. “Making a woman levitate in midair is one thing. But what if I made her …disappear?”

He whipped off the red drape and exposed nothing but air. Men in pinstriped suits leapt to their feet and women touched their hats in astonishment.

When the audience’s enthusiastic clapping subsided, Drago removed his gloves. “Now

I’ll make our lovely Rose reappear. Just… like… that.”

Snapping his fingers loudly, he moved to a cabinet in the middle of the stage. He opened the cabinet’s door with an exaggerated gesture and there stood a pale-faced Rose. Grinning, Drago took her hand and helped her out. Together they walked to the front of the stage and were greeted with thunderous applause.

As he took one step away from Rose, Drago bowed to her as well. Her cheeks regained their color—and she looked at him as if he were the most wonderful man in the world.

Although leaving her was the last thing he desired to do, he had no choice. Drago came closer to her and pressed something into her hand. Then he mouthed the haunting words, “Wear this and come back to me.”

Rose’s hand closed around the item the handsome magician had placed in her palm. The curtain closed with a dramatic whoosh—and as she stumbled up the aisle, she unfurled her hand and stared at the object. It was a beautiful amulet that bore a silver chain and mysterious Egyptian engravings.

*****

Author Info:

Marina Myles’s love of books began as soon as she read her first fairy tale. During her college days, she received degrees in English Literature and Communications—and enjoyed the unique experience of being a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader.

Now that she lives under the sunny skies of Arizona, she hasn’t left her glamorous life behind completely. After all, she gets to divide her time between her loving family, her loyal Maltese, and worlds filled with fiery—but not easily attained—love affairs.

Visit her at www.marinamyles.com

facebook.com/marinamylesauthor

twitter.com/#!/marinaauthor

amazon.com/author/marinamyles

*****

Giveaway:

20 downloads from iBooks (iTunes) US Only

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112ffc746/

*****

Schedule:

Fang-tastic Books

www.fang-tasticbooks.blogspot.com

Roxanne’s Realm

www.roxannerhoads.com

Angel’s Guilty Pleasures

http://angelsguiltypleasures.com

The Creatively Green Write at Home Mom

www.creativelygreen.blogspot.com

Lisa’s World of Books

www.lisasworldofbooks.net

Pembroke Sinclair.

www.pembrokesinclair.blogspot.com

Melissa Stevens

http://melissastevens.us

Kimber Leigh Writes

http://www.kimberleighwheaton.com

The Wormhole

http://wormyhole.blogspot.com

All I Want and More Books

http://alliwantandmorebooks.wordpress.com/

Book Liaison

http://www.bookliaison.net

Romantic Reads and Such

https://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpress.com

Corazones Literarios

http://corazones-literarios.blogspot.com

*****

Spotlight – Resisting the Musician

06 Wednesday Aug 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Ally Blake, Head Over Heels series, Resisting the Musician

Ok, y’all – to help you make it thru the mid-week slump I give you Dash and his oh-so-yummy cover … and his just as yummy sneak peek. Enjoy!

*****

Resisting the Musician

by Ally Blake

Blurb:

Bridal shoe company owner Lori Hanover is in way over her head. First, her designer sister has fallen head over heels for the rock star fiancé of a client – talk about bad PR! Now her business is falling apart. Lori’s only hope in saving her company is making the world believe it was true love, even if she’s not so sure herself. Her best bet? A song. For this she turns to the most frustrating musical recluse in America, Dash Mills, a man who could pass for Thor’s sexier brother. And even though this former rock superstar agrees to help, it comes at a price…

When Lori agrees to Dash’s terms, he thinks she’s the one in for a challenge. But the more time he spends with this spitfire bombshell, the more tempted he is to play her—in more ways than one. But Dash left behind the rock and roll life for a reason. And seductive as Lori may be, if she drags him back into that world, this time he won’t forgive himself…or her.

Goodreads *Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Entangled

Entangled Ignite:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndulgenceBooks

Twitter: @IndulgenceBooks

Steals and Deals

*****

Author Info:

Australian writer Ally Blake is a redhead, a footy fan, a devotee of the language of Aaron Sorkin; she is addicted to stationery and M&Ms and weak in the face of Italians and fire-fighters and a firm believer in love, luck, and fairies. She is also a best-selling author with more than twenty-five fun, flirty romance novels under her belt with over three million copies of her books sold worldwide. For Ally’s take on life, writing, and other fancy stuff, head to www.allyblake.com.

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads

*****

Excerpt:

His rumpled T-shirt lifted at his belly to reveal a happy trail and the fact that the top two buttons of his jeans had been left undone, as if he’d rolled out of bed, tugged them on, and headed off into the wilderness.

Also leaving her with the pretty sound impression that he wore nothing underneath.

When Callie had mentioned meeting Jake’s illusive reclusive ex-band-mate a few weeks before, Lori had briefly imagined an overweight, overly-tattooed guy who reeked of bourbon and past glory.

Instead, she’d found Thor.

*****

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/1cb554405/

*****

CLICK ON THE BANNER BELOW TO CHECK OUT THE REST OF THE TOUR

Spotlight – The Tycoon’s Convenient Bride … And Baby

04 Monday Aug 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Shoshanna Evers, The Tycoon's Convenient Bride ... And Baby

And now a sexy new look at a marriage of convenience.

*****

The Tycoon’s Convenient Bride…and Baby

by Shoshanna Evers

Blurb:

After her brother and his wife go missing and are presumed dead, Lauren Peters plans to raise their infant daughter. Her brother’s will, however, stipulates that baby Callie can only be raised by a married couple. Lauren’s as single as they come.

Mack Hansen can’t stand idly by while his business partner’s baby is thrown into a foster home. As he sees it, there’s only one solution—he and Lauren will marry for the sake of the baby—and he’ll keep his attraction to her at bay.

Lauren knows that Mack is all about business, including their marriage of convenience. But her unexpected feelings for him have her turned upside down. With passion sizzling between them, can Mack keep Lauren from stealing his heart…and becoming his wife for real?

Goodreads * Amazon * Barnes & Noble * iTunes * Entangled

Entangled Ignite:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndulgenceBooks

Twitter: @IndulgenceBooks

Steals and Deals

*****

Excerpt:

My wedding. It was nothing like she’d hoped it would be. She never dreamed she’d marry a man who didn’t love her. Who couldn’t love her, since all he saw when he looked at her was a solution to a problem. An obligation to his business partner and best friend.

“To love, honor, and cherish her. To be with her in sickness and in health,” the judge was saying. “Forsaking all others, keeping only unto her for as long as you both shall live?”

Mack looked at her and smiled. A smile that seemed to say, Wow, we’re really doing this. What a joke we’re pulling.

“I do.”

“And Lauren Peters, do you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband, to live together in holy matrimony. To love, honor, and obey. To be with him in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, keeping only unto him as long as you both shall live?”

The word “obey” bugged her, but she wasn’t planning on being with him for as long as they lived, either, so what was one more white lie in this marriage of convenience? Lauren swallowed hard around the lump forming in her throat. This was it.

“I do.”

“Mack, please place the ring on her left hand, and repeat after me. With this ring.”

Mack slid the thin platinum ring onto her ring finger.

He’d had his assistant run out to the jewelry store down the block from his lawyer’s office and buy two plain bands for them as placeholders. Of course she couldn’t have picked out her own ring, what was the point? None of this was real.

“With this ring,” Mack said.

The cool metal closed around her finger. It sure felt real.

Oh God.

“I thee wed, in love and truth…”

Mack smiled. “I thee wed, in love and truth…”

“And with all my worldly goods I thee endow.”

Well, at least for a while, until we get divorced. And then the airtight prenup she’d signed would eliminate that vow.

“And with all my worldly goods, I thee endow,” Mack repeated.

She wondered if he was thinking the same thing about the prenup as she said the words and placed the ring on his finger.

“Join hands,” the judge said.

She held his hand. It felt warm and comforting as it enveloped hers.

“Mack Hansen and Lauren Peters have consented this day to live together in holy wedlock. They have given and pledged themselves to each other in the presence of these witnesses. Therefore, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the laws of the State of New York, I now pronounce you…husband and wife.”

“Wow,” she whispered. This man, this near-stranger looming above her, staring down at her with that gorgeous face of his…was her husband.

Her husband.

“You may kiss the bride,” the judge concluded.

Suddenly Mack’s mouth was on hers, his warm lips pressing urgently against her own. She gasped in surprise at the passion behind the kiss. This kiss…this was no fake kiss.

It was real. At least…it felt real.

Did it feel real to him too?

His tongue slipped inside her mouth and she parted her lips, delighting in his taste. Kissing him was so…familiar, and yet so new at the same time. She’d always imagined what it would be like, and after that one drunken kiss almost a decade ago that she’d pretended to forget, she couldn’t help but fantasize about what would have happened if the kiss had gone further than it had.

She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him down toward her, deepening the kiss. Her husband. She was kissing her husband. This might never happen again—now might be the only time she got to experience this particular pleasure.

She heard a bemused clearing of a throat behind her.

Mack lifted his lips from hers and smiled at the judge. “Thank you, your Honor,” he said.

“Save it for the honeymoon,” the judge said with a smile, shaking his head. He called to the waiting couples lined up by the hall. “Next!”

She blushed at the thought. “We’re not going to… consummate this marriage, are we?” she whispered in his ear.

Mack tilted his head and looked at her, a slow gaze that left her feeling vulnerable—and desired. “You’re my wife now. I’ve agreed to monogamy, not celibacy.”

Oh God, that was true. She couldn’t expect a red-blooded young man to be abstinent for a whole year. And if she didn’t want him sleeping with anyone else…

She inhaled sharply, desire pooling in her belly. This was really happening. She’d painted herself into a corner with her own rules. Not that she minded her predicament.

Mack smiled again, his crooked incisor inspiring her to smile back. “Yes,” he said, “I expect we should consummate this marriage. Tonight.”

*****

Author Info:

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Shoshanna Evers has written dozens of sexy stories, including The Man Who Holds the Whip (part of the bestselling MAKE ME anthology),Overheated, The Enslaved Trilogy, and The Pulse Trilogy (from Simon & Schuster Pocket Star).

Her work has been featured in Best Bondage Erotica 2012 and Best Bondage Erotica 2013, the Penguin/Berkley Heat anthology Agony/Ecstasy, and numerous erotic BDSM novellas including Chastity Belt and Punishing the Art Thief from Ellora’s Cave Publishing.

The non-fiction anthology Shoshanna Evers edited and contributed to, How To Write Hot Sex: Tips from Multi-Published Erotic Romance Authors, is a #1 Bestseller in the Authorship, Erotica Writing Reference, and Romance Writing categories.

Shoshanna is a New York native who now lives with her family and two big dogs in Northern Idaho. She welcomes emails from readers and writers, and loves to interact on Twitter and Facebook.

Website * Blog * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads * Newsletter

*****

Giveaway:

Giveaway: $50 Gift Card

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/1cb554404

*****

Schedule:

7/28 ~ What Is That Book About ~ Promo
7/28 ~ Talking Books Blog ~ Promo , Review
7/29 ~ Toot’s Book Reviews ~ Promo
7/29 ~ Becky on Books ~ Review, Promo
7/30 ~ Night Owl Reviews ~ Promo
7/30 ~ First Page to the Last ~ Promo
7/31 ~ She Hearts Books ~ Review
7/31 ~ Book Nook Nuts ~ Promo
8/1 ~ In the Pages of a Good Book ~ Promo
8/1 ~ Living & Loving The Written Word ~ Review
8/ ~ Ramblings of a Book Lunatic ~ Promo , Review
8/4 ~ Read Your Writes Book Reviews ~ Promo
8/4 ~ Romantice Reads and Such ~ Promo
8/4 ~ Lore Lush Books ~ Promo
8/5 ~ Kate George – Author ~ Promo
8/5 ~ All Romance Reviews ~ Review
8/6 ~ Ramblings From This Chick ~ Promo
8/6 ~ Sapphyria’s Book Reviews ~ Promo
8/7 ~ All Things Romance ~ Promo, Review
8/7 ~ You Gotta Read ~ Promo
8/8 ~ Reading Between the Wines Book Club ~ Promo
8/8 ~ So Many Reads ~ Review

*****

Spotlight – Burning Love

04 Monday Aug 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Burning Love, Calendar Men, Cassandra Carr

We’re going to start off our week with a hot and sexy firefighter … an excellent way to begin our Monday!

*****

Burning Love

by Cassandra Carr

Blurb:

Jude Fisher thinks his life is over. He’s been injured on the job as a firefighter and not recovering as well as he’d like. His friend cajoles him into doing a calendar shoot for a friend and Jude actually enjoys himself, even more so after literally running into a beautiful woman on his way out.

Michaela owns a restaurant and works long hours to make it successful. The attraction between Jude and Michaela is instant, but their schedules are hell and they struggle to find time to connect. Then business at the restaurant skyrockets and Jude faces an uncertain future. As they battle for their livelihoods, both wonder if they’ll ever be free to pursue a real relationship or if they should just cut their losses.

BUY LINKS:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Burning-Love-Calendar-Cassandra-Carr-ebook/dp/B00M9P6H4M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406861528&sr=8-1&keywords=burning+love+cassandra+carr

All Romance: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-burninglove-1583661-149.html

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/463015

Goodreads: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/463015

*****

Excerpt:

They walked to his truck and shared an easy silence on the way home. Michaela couldn’t remember a time she’d been more at ease with someone she didn’t know well.

At her door, he pulled her to him. “Thanks for coming out with me. This was the most fun I’ve had in weeks. I’ll call you, and we’ll do it again soon.”

“I had a great time, too.”

“I’m glad.”

Jude lowered his head and kissed her, capturing her chin in his large palm and turning her mouth to more fully meet his. His other arm remained around her waist, tightening and bringing their bodies fully flush from chest to hip. He ran his tongue along her lips, and she opened to him with a moan. Somewhere in the back of her mind, she knew they were taking things really fast, but try as she might, she couldn’t think of a good reason to slow down. Their tongues tangled in an intimate dance before he retreated to his own mouth and she chased him, moaning again when he briefly sucked on her tongue.

His hand moved lower on her back, cupping her ample ass and pushing his groin into hers, making his erection obvious. They battled for control of the kiss, but Jude eventually won out, pushing the hand that had cupped her chin around to the back of her head to tilt her to his liking. Finally they broke apart, both breathing hard.

Jude gasped for air. “Holy hell.”

“Uh-huh.”

“We need to stop, or I’m gonna start begging to take you right here.”

“Okay.” At Jude’s expression of surprise, she realized what she’d said and had to resist the urge to roll her eyes at herself. “I meant, yes, we should stop.” Very witty commentary. “So you’re going to call me?”

Jude held up the phone containing her number. “Count on it.” He waited for her to open her door before backing away.

“See you soon, I hope.”

Famous last words.

*****

Author Info:

Cassandra Carr is a multi-award winning erotic romance writer with Ellora’s Cave, Sybarite Seductions/Twenty or Less Press, Decadent Publishing, Siren Publishing, and Loose Id. She lives in Western New York with her husband, Inspiration, and her daughter, Too Cute for Words. When not writing she enjoys watching hockey and hanging out online. Cassandra is the co-founder of two successful group blogs, Romancing the Jock and Dirty Birdies, and participates in several others as a contributor. Currently Cassandra also serves as president of Western New York Romance Writers.

For more information about Cassandra, check out her website, “like” her Facebook fan page or follow her on Twitter.

Links:

Website: http://www.booksbycassandracarr.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorCassandraCarr

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/cassandra_carr

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/booksbycasscarr/

*****

Schedule:

Aug 1 ~Becky on Books ~Spotlight

Aug 2 ~Inner Goddess ~Spotlight

Aug 3 ~Diane’s Book Blog ~Spotlight

Aug 4 ~Romantic Reads and Such ~Spotlight

Aug 5 ~Trips down imagination road ~review

Aug 6 ~Lusty Penguin Reviews ~Spotlight

Aug 7 ~A Passion for Romance ~Spotlight

Aug 9 ~My Erotic Notions ~Spotlight

Aug 12 ~USA Today Happy Ever After ~Interview

Aug 13 ~BlackHippieChick’s Reviews & Advice ~Review & Promo

Aug 19 ~You Gotta Read ~Spotlight

Aug 21 ~Bea’s Book Nook ~Review

Aug 26 ~In Shadows ~Spotlight

Aug 28 ~Vampires, Werewolves, & Fairies, Oh My ~Spotlight, and excerpt

*****

Guest Post – A Kiss on Crimson Ranch

01 Friday Aug 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

A Kiss on Crimson Ranch, Michelle Major

I’m so thrilled this morning to welcome the oh-so-wonderful Michelle Major as she shares with us her newest book, A Kiss on Crimson Ranch. Make sure you enter her giveaway to win your own copy!

*****

Thanks so much for having me here at Romantic Reads and Such. I’m very excited to share a little more about me and my new release from Harlequin Special Edition, A Kiss On Crimson Ranch.

*What do you like best about writing romances?

I love immersing myself in a story – the characters, plot, conflict and how they all come together is like a puzzle to solve in some ways. I like romance in particular because you can really examine so many aspects of life through a love story and what it takes for two people to reach their happy ever after. The research on who the hero is going to look like is an added bonus! 🙂

*What is your favorite romantic story (movie/book, fact/fiction)?

Oh, gosh. This is difficult because I have so many. Although I write contemporary, my favorite to read is historical romance. It’s how I first discovered the genre and when I have time to read (I’m quite a binge reader), I often choose historical. My go-to movies are most anything Jane Austen (Persuasion and Pride & Prejudice are my two favorites), The Princess Bride and Hope Floats. I’m really a sucker for any romantic comedy.

*If you could be any romantic character, who would it be and why?

Great question. I’ve never actually thought about this because I’m pretty practical in my every day life. When you have little kids, your husband taking the trash out without being asked feels like a romantic gesture. I’d probably pick Elizabeth Bennet so I could have a chance with Mr. Darcy. But when I was a girl, I really, really wanted to be Anne Shirley from Anne of Green Gables.

*Which of your characters/books was the most fun to write?

In A Kiss on Crimson Ranch, I loved writing the character of Sara Wellens. She was feisty, funny and had such a smart mouth. One of Sara’s habits is that she relates real-life situations to movies and can spout off random movie facts. It’s a defense mechanism for her – something she does when she’s nervous or feeling out of her element. I have an embarrassingly good memory for Hollywood trivia and names of actors – I mean, really, why can’t it be history or great literature or something that makes me sound super smart? But it’s the first time my useless well of movie knowledge has been put to good use.

*If you weren’t a writer and could be doing anything else you want, what would it be?

My career prior to writing was in Human Resources, and I loved parts of it—especially training and bringing on new hires. I definitely did not enjoy when the company downsized and it came time for layoffs—that was terrible. I’ve always thought it would be fun (although a lot of work) to own a guest lodge. My husband is an avid fly fisherman. I’d take care of the bed and breakfast and he’d be the official tour guide.

Question for giveaway: I’d love to know your favorite romantic movie? Comment below for a chance to win a signed copy of A Kiss on Crimson Ranch.

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A Kiss on Crimson Ranch

by Michelle Major

Find it at Amazon: http://amzn.com/0373658338

Blurb:

Former child star Sara Wellens has hit a dead end in Hollywood. When she inherits half of a crumbling guest ranch in Crimson, Colorado, Sara figures she’ll sell her portion to get back on her own two feet and be back in the black in no time at all. No harm, no foul…right?

The one thing she didn’t count on was her partner-in-property, hunky former bull rider and single dad Josh Travers. Sara is surprised at how quickly she bonds with the charming cowboy and his daughter. But she insists that she’s definitely not looking for a forever family. Can the rancher and the starlet let down their guards to find their own Hollywood happy ending?

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Author Info:

Michelle Major grew up in Ohio but dreamed of living in the mountains. Soon after graduating with a degree in Journalism, she pointed her car west and settled in Colorado. Her life and house are filled with one great husband, two beautiful kids, a few furry pets and several well-behaved reptiles. She’s grateful to have found her passion writing stories with happy endings. Michelle loves to hear from her readers at www.michellemajor.com.

You can also find Michelle at:

https://www.facebook.com/MichelleMajorBooks?ref=hl

https://twitter.com/michelle_major1

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Excerpt:

Sara didn’t make it back to her cabin until close to eleven, way past her bedtime with the early-morning hours on the ranch. She’d helped April clean up in the kitchen after Brandy and Claire had gone to bed, leaving the guys to relive old stories around the fire pit on the side patio.

To her surprise, Ryan had seemed to find his place in the over-testosteroned group, happily sharing stories of which Hollywood starlets had what body parts surgically enhanced.

She smiled to herself at the stories she could tell if she wanted then jumped at a noise from the trees next to her front door.

“Heart attack central over here,” she squeaked as Josh stepped out of the darkness.

“Sorry.” He didn’t look sorry. He looked big and gorgeous in his soft flannel shirt, faded jeans and boots. A light was on in her cabin, its glow illuminating the front step enough for her to see him clearly.

Late-night stubble shadowed his jaw, defining it even more and making her wonder how that roughness would feel across her skin. She quickly pulled her mind away from that train of thought. No good could come from there.

“Expecting someone else?” he asked.

“Yogi Bear?” she answered, still trying to catch her breath. “Or Grizzly Adams, maybe?”

One corner of his mouth hitched up, matching the catch in her throat. “Noah likes you.”

“I got the impression Noah likes anyone with breasts and a pulse.”

That drew a laugh from him. “Probably. The question is, do you like him?”

Something in his tone of voice put her on edge. “I don’t think that’s any of your business.” She took a step toward her door but he blocked the path.

“It is if you’re going to mix business with pleasure.”

She eyed him for a moment then swallowed, too tired to play games or even put up a fight. “I’m not interested in Noah.”

He watched her.

“Or Manny. Or Bryson.”

He continued to stare.

She huffed out a breath. “I’m not after your friends. Why do I feel like there’s still a problem?”

He blinked several times then mumbled, “Thank you.”

“I’m having trouble following you.”

“For tonight. You made Claire feel comfortable, and I have a feeling you suggested the stupid game to do the same for me.”

“Everyone had fun playing the game,” she said, letting a little temper seep into her voice. “I was just keeping the guests entertained. I’m sure you can handle your own feelings.”

“You’re right—it wasn’t stupid. We did have fun. Because of you.”

The cool night air licked across her bare arms and goose bumps tickled her skin in its wake. She took another deep breath, hoping the scent of the surrounding mountains would calm her. Josh’s gaze fell to her chest, which had the exact opposite effect on her jumbled emotions.

His eyes squeezed shut. “I don’t know how to do this.”

“Do what?”

“Want you so badly and not act on it.”

She knew that feeling. “There are a lot of reasons we shouldn’t be together.”

He nodded but said, “Tell me why I shouldn’t kiss you right now.”

Every shred of rational thought dissolved from her brain. Without meaning to, she swayed a tiny bit closer to him. “I don’t want to.”

“You don’t want to kiss me?”

“I don’t want to give you a reason not to,” she said on a shaky laugh.

He laced his fingers with hers and tugged her closer. With his other hand he cupped the back of her head, bringing her mouth against his. Like before, his kiss mesmerized her. Her defenses, her protective walls—everything inside her loosened and traveled south to parts of her body that hadn’t been lit up for years. Those bits were glowing now as he claimed her, pulling her against him and deepening the kiss.

A shiver ran across her back and he wrapped his arms tightly around her. She snuggled into the heat that radiated from his body, losing herself in his spicy scent.

Tugging at the hem of her T-shirt, his warm hands pressed against her skin for several minutes before his fingers worked at her bra strap. Yes, yes, yes, her reawakened senses shouted in her head. At the same time, a trickle of unease danced across her conscience.

Darned conscience.

She didn’t do casual flings. That was one of the few standards she’d held true to, both in and out of the spotlight. L.A. was filled with relationships built on nothing more than mutual attraction and soul-crushing loneliness. Sara hadn’t given her body or her heart in a moment of weakness in the past. She wasn’t going to let her hormones take over now. She knew how badly that could play out in the morning, and she wouldn’t risk her pride, no matter how good it felt.

The silent snap of her bra opening brought her fully to her right mind.

“Stop.” She wasn’t sure if she’d said the word out loud until Josh’s hands stilled on her waist.

He buried his face in the side of her neck. “Is this what you call a dramatic pause?” he asked, his voice ragged.

“We shouldn’t do this.”

“I hope you mean we should take it inside your cabin instead.”

Sara gave him a small push and he immediately moved back. “I mean the two of us is a bad idea for a lot of reasons.”

“If I’d known you’d actually muster an argument, I’m not sure I would have asked the question.”

“What do you want out of this summer, Josh?”

He tilted his head, massaged his thumb and index finger above his eyes. “Money,” he answered simply.

“Is that all?”

“Give me a break on the twenty questions, Sara. My brain isn’t firing on all cylinders right now.” He sighed. “I want a future for Claire and me. I want this ranch to feel like home for her.”

She nodded and tried not to admit that the truth in his words stung. She was used to not being a priority to anyone, even herself. But it still hurt to hear it out loud. “It’s about Claire for you. For me it’s about a second chance of a different kind.”

In a way, things had been easier in California. The day-to-day struggle to make ends meet had left her little time to ponder the sad state of the rest of her life. Now that she had that time, it was up to her to protect herself. No one else was going to.

She liked to believe that her grandma would have fought for Sara if her mother hadn’t made sure they never returned to Crimson. Maybe her grandmother would have been the positive role model Sara had so desperately needed.

She wanted to think that’s why Gran had left her the house. An olive branch of sorts. Sara had no intention of letting it go to waste.

“I want the money and the fresh start it will give me. I’m going to get it one way or another. Even if that means…”

The lingering heat in his eyes went instantly frosty. “Even if that means crushing my future to guarantee your own.”