Guest Post – Waiting For You

20 Tuesday May 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

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This morning we welcome the lovely Heather Huffman as she gives us a little peek into her characters and what makes them so great. And then she gives us a look at her new book, Waiting For You (which looks super sweet and super fun).

*****

I thought it would be cute to make a list of ways my characters are smarter than me when it comes to love, but then I realized it boils down to two things that make all the difference for them.

First, they make time. I put my characters through the wringer, but they still manage to find time to picnic in the poppies or leap on the perfectly delectable man close enough to nibble on. All-to-often, I find myself so busy keeping my family afloat that I’m lucky to shower before collapsing in a gelatinous heap on the couch. I have to schedule time to shave my legs lest I start a rumor about the Ozark Sasquatch. No matter how busy my characters are, they still delight in being a girl. I should do that more often. (To that end, I did paint my toenails purple this morning. That should count for something.)

They also know who they are – and the ones that don’t figure it out. Some people mistakenly believe that I write about strong women because I am one. In truth, I’m a hot mess who’s allowed myself to be a doormat more times than I care to admit.

When I was younger, I hid the fears and frailties behind a spunky bravado, but they were still there guiding my decisions and actions. As I write about my heroines, I learn from their strength. I deal with my own demons on the same pages that navigate theirs. I really should have done more of that before I got married; I firmly believe it would have made for a smoother ride.

I love that my characters are strong enough for the romance to be about the guy, not just any guy. I hope to be just like them when I grow up.

*****

Waiting for You

by Heather Huffman

Release Date: May 7, 2014

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Blurb:

Sometimes a single spark is all it takes to change your life for good.

For years, Karise McAlister has been running: from her family, from herself, and from her dreams. Now she’s made it, with a successful career and a promising engagement. But when she meets the compelling and creative Aidan Donnelly, his down-to-earth charm provides the wakeup call Karise badly needs. Moving across country to start over, Karise devotes herself to her work, convinced she needs to be independent. But with handsome Aidan just down the road and a mischievous group of friends determined to set her up, Karise must face her concerns about life and romance head-on.

Amazon Goodreads

*****

Author Info:

Heather Huffman calls the beautiful Missouri Ozarks home. When not writing, this homesteading mother is busy raising three boys or tending the family’s myriad of animals, which includes alpacas, goats, chickens and ducks. Huffman’s optimistic and somewhat quirky view of life often finds its way into her novels.
Heather is the author of Throwaway, Ties that Bind, Jailbird, Suddenly a Spy, Ring of Fire, Tumbleweed, Devil in Disguise, Roses in Ecuador and Fool’s Game.

You can find out more about her family’s adventures as they strive to live off the land, as well as her writing and charitable work on http://www.heatherhuffman.net.

Author’s Links:

Face Book:https://www.facebook.com/HeatherHuffmanBooks

Twitter:https://twitter.com/Heathers_mark

Pinterest:http://www.pinterest.com/heatherhuffman/

*****

Excerpt:

Karise stepped forward, holding a hand out to skim the tops of the flowers as she waded into their midst. “Magical,” she whispered.

“Yeah,” he agreed, his voice taking on a huskier tone.

Karise studied the field for a moment longer before turning back to smile at Aidan. “Thank you for bringing me here.”

He took a step toward her. “You’re welcome.”

“You may never get me out of here. I just might decide to live right here, in this field.”

Aidan chuckled. “You might get cold at some point. Besides, the poppies don’t last long.

This is the peak of their season. After that, it’s just a field.”

“A field with a promise worth waiting for,” she amended.

“Something like that.” There was a pause. The expression on his face made Karise wonder what he was thinking. She was pretty sure that whatever it had been, it was more than his suggestion that they pick a spot to eat, which were the next words out of his mouth.

Karise only nibbled at the food he spread out in front of them. Her mind was racing in too many different directions, and her stomach had way too many butterflies for food to be a top priority. She listened as Aidan talked about how this field had inspired many of the designs used in his marketing material. The gentle cadence of his voice was like a caress. She couldn’t keep her eyes off of him – all of the excuses she’d been hiding behind faded away a little more with each syllable that fell from his lips.

Aidan paused mid sentence to eye her warily. “Is everything okay?”

Karise nodded. “Yes, sorry. Go on.”

“Am I boring you?”

“Quite the contrary.”

“You’re killing me, Karise. What is it?”

She hesitated then took a deep breath and threw caution to the wind. It’s possible she leapt at him. She couldn’t be entirely sure. All she really knew was that she was right where she wanted to be now: in his arms. His surprise quickly gave way to eager acceptance as he met her kiss with one of his own. He was salty and sweet at once. The hint of sandpaper on his jaw grazed her soft skin. A low growl of longing rumbled deep in his throat as he pulled her more firmly on his lap.

She wrapped her legs around his waist, arching into him as his mouth pulled away from hers to roam the skin exposed by the V of her shirt. Her fingers sank greedily into his dark hair as he left a trail of fire across her flesh. Karise couldn’t tell if she was flying or falling or something in between.

She kissed his temple, then his cheek, then reclaimed his lips. He leaned into her, deepening the touch. Time melted away. Karise was aware of only two things: She’d never felt anything remotely like this before, and she wanted more of him. She shifted positions, gently pushing him back on the blanket. She ran her hands up his sides, shoving his shirt out of the way as she did. Karise had lost many nights’ sleep thinking about the very muscles she now traced with her fingers. She moved to kiss his jaw, then his throat, then met her hands at his chest. He stopped breathing when she traced a feathery trail of kisses along his abdomen.

With lightning speed, he scooped her up and flipped her onto her back, his mouth setting fire to her throat while his hands splayed her small waist before moving up to her rib cage. He shifted his weight, the friction of his jeans against her shorts nearly her undoing. It hit her like a tidal wave – she’d reached the point of no return. Either she stopped him here or they crossed a threshold in this poppy field.

*****

Click on the banner below to see all of the sites participating in the tour!

Book Review – A Demon In Love

19 Monday May 2014

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

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A Demon In Love, Book Review, Holley Trent, Sons of Gulielmus series

We’re going to start off the week with look at A Demon In Love and a review. This one is perfect for any of you who love paranormal stories.

*****

A Demon In Love

Sons of Gulielmus Book 2

by Holley Trent

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Publisher: Crimson Romance

Date of Publication: 5/5/14

ISBN: 978-1-4405-8150-2

Number of pages: 163 (PDF)

Word Count: 79,000

Blurb:

Charles Edison has spent most of his 123 years courting women for Hell. As a faithful son of the demon Gulielmus, he’s never known true affection for women. Which is funny, seeing as how he’s descended from a love god on his mother’s side. Now that he sees his brother falling head over heels, Charles wants the same for himself. He wants to belong to someone.

The Fates conspire to right old wrongs, and Charles learns the woman destined for him is one he shouldn’t want. Marion Wilder’s family has been on the supernatural Most Wanted List for twenty-five years because they were responsible for the demise of a demon. Gulielmus would kill her if he had the chance.

But Marion’s the only human woman Charles can touch without harming. She’s his one chance at having a normal life and a real family, and he would give up anything to keep her. Even his father’s favor.

*****

Excerpt:

She bent to pick up the receipt she’d dropped, and then yelped at the sight of the stranger six feet from her. She blew her fright away on an exhale and put her hand to her heart.

Why did they always frighten her? By now, she should have been used to strange men approaching her. Sometimes they heckled her—the “little girl” truck driver. Occasionally, they tried to sell her things. Dick and weed, mostly. One she didn’t partake in. The other she sure as shit wasn’t going to pay for, even if she were that kind of desperate.

She rolled her eyes and shook her head, hoping he’d catch the drift. Not that they ever did. Bozos.

“Cold night, isn’t it?” he asked. His voice was deep and cultured in the way Shakespearean actors’ voices were. Trained. Odd, seeing as how the only culture this guy had likely rubbed off from the newspapers he slept on. She cocked her head to the side and really studied him. Maybe he was experiencing some sort of delusion and believed he was on the set of a BBC miniseries or something. Maybe a modern retelling of The Taming of the Shrew. She knew which character she’d be cast as, and was already gearing up to play the role if he said something sufficiently stupid. And he would. There was always something wrong with these truck stop guys. Pity, because this one was hot. He had to be around six and a half feet tall, and a nicely proportionate breadth to go with that height. Not bulky, but there were definitely some muscles beneath that jacket. He had to outweigh her by a good hundred pounds.

He fixed a stare on her she couldn’t tell was from blue or gray eyes beneath the pole light, but either way, it was oddly mesmerizing. She couldn’t bring herself to break free of it, although it somehow made her feel exposed.

Naked.

Why was he looking at her like that—like he knew her? She’d never seen the man before. She certainly would have remembered those startling eyes and all that dark hair. Jesus, she liked a bit of mane on her men. Someone could slap him on the cover of a romance novel. Just wrap him in tartan, hand him a sword, and set up an unobtainable fantasy for a few thousand women.

She pursed her lips, considering him. Nah, she’d read probably a hundred thrift store romance novels in the past year, and this guy was too tan to be a Scotsman and not dark enough to be a sheikh. Greek tycoon, maybe? Oh yeah. Put him on the deck of a yacht wearing some of those little European swim trunks and—

“Isn’t it?” he repeated, and raised one dark eyebrow.

“Huh?” She blinked. Did he want something?

He shifted his weight and shoved his hands into the pockets of his leather jacket, grinning at her. Shit, he could have lit up the entire parking lot with that smile. He was so pretty—now, what did he want with her? Whatever it was, she wasn’t paying for it.

She closed her eyes and drew in a bolstering breath. “It’s cold,” she said blandly and hauled her toolbox up into her truck cab.

“Montana’s a pretty inhospitable place, huh? There’s still a month until winter, but I don’t think the snow cares about timeliness.”

“Mm-hmm.” She patted her pockets in search of her keys. The next thing he’d probably say was that he could make it a lot more hospitable for her, if she had enough cash.

Prostitutes were pretty predictable, and she certainly got propositioned enough, though usually the truck stop hos were a little less—upright.

But, shit, did she really look like the kind of woman who’d pay a man for sex? She wrapped her fingers around the handle, prepared to slam the door.

He moved closer and grabbed the door’s edge before she could pull it. “Hey, why don’t you let me buy you a cup of coffee? You look like you could use a cup.”

“I don’t think so, dude.”

She could afford her own coffee, obviously, but no prostitute had ever offered to buy her anything. Must have been a new sales strategy—the hook ’em, then hump ’em.

She just wanted to get back on the road, but he was right. She did need to refill her thermos, fiend that she was. Coffee was her one vice, and she’d forgotten to take the canister into the restaurant with her during dinner. She didn’t want to give the guy the satisfaction, though, no matter how good he looked.

She let her gaze fall on him once again. He looked harmless enough, with his easy stance and hands jammed into the pockets of his coat. His boots were actually quite good quality. Brown leather with some scuffs. Broken in, and wet from snow, but they looked damned expensive. Didn’t seem like hand-me-downs, either. The heels were too good.

There must have been good money in truck stop whoring.

“No, thank you,” she finally managed, and gripped the door handle again after two failed attempts. “I-I need to get back on the road and get this load delivered.”

“Must be lonely,” he said. His grin waned slowly, and this time it was he who looked away, toward a truck entering the lot. He waited until it had circled around to the gas pumps.

“It’s a job,” she said when he looked up again. Damn, those eyes. They were so sad, and for some reason, that made her a little sad, too.

*****

Book Review:

A Demon In Love gives readers a very intriguing world and is a fascinating paranormal story. With characters just as interesting as the world they inhabit, if you are looking for a paranormal story, it is a fantastic choice.

But I’m not sure how it works as a paranormal romance. I liked the world that Trent created, but Marion and Charles spend most of their time apart – not apart in a romantic since, but actually physically apart. And large chunks of time will go by with minimal explanation of what events happen in that time. Not that we need a moment-by-moment narrative, but it was a little odd to me.

It is supposed to be able to stand on its own, which I suppose it can, but I’m not sure if reading the first book would have helped fill in some of the details. Or it could just be that it is supposed to be more paranormal than paranormal romance. I think I was just a little thrown off by the lack of interaction between the two and, to me, the lack of development of their relationship. Without having read the first story, I don’t know how it compares and if it would have helped with my enjoyment.

Even though I missed the romance element, I had a great time reading A Demon In Love and easily recommend it to anyone who is looking for a paranormal read.

*****

Author Info:

Holley Trent is a Carolina girl gone west. Raised in rural coastal North Carolina, she currently resides on the Colorado Front Range with her family. She writes sassy contemporary and quirky paranormal romances set in her home state.

She’s hard at work writing other stories set in the Sons of Gulielmus world, including one for the mysterious Creole cambion Claude.

See Holley’s complete backlist of paranormal and contemporary romances at her website, http://www.holleytrent.com. When she’s not on deadline, she boldly tweets under the handle @holleytrent.

Website: http://www.holleytrent.com

Blog: http://www.holleytrent.com/blog

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

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

*****

Giveaway:

-eBook copies of A Demon in Waiting and Melt My Heart (2 bundles, 2 winners)

-$25 e-gift certificate: ARe, Amazon, or B&N (1 winner)

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112f634/

*****

Click on the banner below to check out all of the sites involved in the tour.

Book Review – Dare to Resist

16 Friday May 2014

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

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Book Review, Dare to Resist, Laura Kaye, Wedding Dare series

Today’s tour includes another look at Laura Kaye’s Dare to Resist with a review. Check it out below and if you are looking for something steamy, this is definitely the one for you!

*****

DARE TO RESIST is the prequel novella to the sexy wedding event of the year! The Wedding Dare Series brings together five New York Times bestselling authors, one sizzling story of how the bride and groom fell in love, and four super sexy tales of bridesmaids who hope to get lucky in lust—or maybe even love—at their friend’s wedding. Here’s the story that starts it all!

Blurb:

Trapped and tempted, this battle of wills rages all night long…

Kady Dresco and Colton Brooks click on a level that defies logic. There are only two problems. One, he’s her older brother’s irritating best friend, and two, they’re bidding on the same military security services contract.

When the competition heats up, Colton is torn between wanting to strangle Kady (and her annoying brilliance) and kissing her into submission. Which is a bad idea for a million reasons, because Kady’s submission is exactly what he craves. Being trapped in a tiny motel room with the object of his darkest fantasies will require every ounce of his restraint.

Kady doesn’t want his restraint, but Colton knows better. She deserves love, marriage, and a white picket fence—three things Colton can’t give her. But her proximity and the memory of their steamy near-miss three years ago slowly destroys his resolve. And he’s not sure how much longer he can keep his hands off…or his heart closed.

Dare to Resist on Goodreads

*****

Excerpt:

Damn she had a smart mouth on her. So many things he’d like to do to temporarily cure her of that. And now he knew she’d enjoy them, too. “Kady, I just meant—”

She huffed, stoking both the flames of his aggression and his arousal. “I got it.”

He fisted his hands. “No, you fucking don’t, because you won’t stop talking long enough for me to explain myself.”

She blanched. “Well, do it. What do you want to say?”

Here it was. Moment of truth time. Fucking finally. “Three years ago—”

“Colton, I don’t want to talk about ancient—”

He was on her in a flash. One hand over her mouth, the other cradling the back of her head so that he didn’t hurt her when he shoved her against the closet door. He held her there with the weight of his own body, his legs on the outsides of hers effectively boxing her in. “It’s not your turn to talk. Understand?”

Eyes wide, nostrils flaring, Kady searched his eyes and finally nodded. He could almost feel the questions rolling off of her.

“Three years ago,” he said again, arching a brow, “I pulled back from what we started for a couple of reasons. Same reasons why I pulled away again yesterday when I wanted to kiss you. But this book…this book makes me wonder if maybe one of those reasons isn’t as relevant as I originally thought.” He heaved a breath and leaned his forehead against hers, bringing them eye to eye. “The guy in your book? I’m that guy,” he said, putting it in terms he hoped she’d understand.

A shiver ran over her body. Against his chest, her nipples went hard.

Holy hell. Did his declaration just turn her on?

Her pupils were dilating. Right there was his answer. His cock went from hard to downright torture.

“You get what I’m saying?” he asked. A small nod. “I get off on being rough. Because I like and respect you, and because you’re my best friend’s little sister—”

Her brows furrowed.

He pressed his hand more firmly against her mouth and nailed her with a stare. “I get it. After our talk yesterday, that’s not how I see you. But it is how Tyler sees you. How he’ll always see you. Big brothers are genetically programmed to be protective of younger sisters no matter their age. Trust me. I know from firsthand experience. So I’ve backed off because I didn’t want to scare you or offend you with what I want, and I certainly didn’t want to piss Tyler off, either.”

Her fingers pulled softly at the hand covering her mouth, a gentle plea. He removed his hand immediately. “Can I say something now?” she asked quietly.

When had Kady Dresco ever asked for permission to speak around him? But he’d exerted a little dominance over her, and she’d responded with submissiveness. Probably wasn’t even aware she’d done it. A dark satisfaction heated his blood and further hardened his cock. “Go ahead.”

*****

Review:

Dare to Resist has one of my favorite storylines – an intense attraction to a friend’s sibling (or a sibling’s friend) – with a touch of a friends to lovers transition. Both Kady and Colton are fun together. They are snarky and caring and have a wonderfully complex history. The dialogue between them is humorous and sassy and full of charm, and their chemistry bleeds through every page.

The biggest issues between Kady and Colton getting together pretty much fall on him. He’s got an honorable streak a mile wide and a huge blind spot to the fact that Kady is all grown up. She may be seeing him with clear eyes but he’s definitely still seeing her with a friend’s little sister filter. And with the horrible marriage his parents had, he’s not sure that he’s made for a long-term relationship. And then there are his more daring preferences in the bedroom.

Once their attraction comes to a head, Dare to Resist definitely heats up. It’s hot and sexy and daring. Brazen books are Entangled’s steamier fare and Kaye’s latest definitely fits in – Colton is a bad boy who will steal your heart in a second.

Once again I’m pleased by how well-developed a novella is. Dare to Resist is complete, intriguing and thoroughly entertaining. Even though it is just over 100 pages long, we get a good feeling for both Kady and Colton and for their motivations. Not only are we there for this latest chapter in their relationship, but Kaye also does a fantastic job of giving us their complicated past. And the ending is so sweet, and fits so well with these two, I finished the last page with a happy smile on my face.

(And it is the perfect introduction to the four Wedding Dare stories coming this summer. I’m definitely looking forward to those.)

*****

About the Wedding Dare Series:

When four bridesmaids dare one another to find lust—or maybe even love—at the destination wedding event of the year, the groomsmen don’t stand a chance. But little do the women know, the men are onto their game, and sparks will fly alongside the bouquet.

Four bridesmaids. Four groomsmen.

Four New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling authors. Long-carried torches, sizzling new attractions, and forbidden conquests will ensure a wedding never to be forgotten.

Tessa Bailey, Baiting the Maid of Honor

Diane Alberts, Falling for the Groomsmen

Katee Robert, Seducing the Bridesmaid

Samanthe Beck, Best Man with Benefits

Coming June 9!

All Wedding Dare Series Books on Goodreads

*****

Author Info:

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance and romantic suspense. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

*****

Giveaway:

$25 Giveaway and Wedding Dare/Brazen Swag

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/9172c1159/

*****

Review Tour Schedule

May 13

Little Read Riding Hood

Cocktails and Books

Make My Day Book Club

Hesperia Loves Books

Talking Books Blog

Books Books & More Books

May 14

The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club

May 15

Made For You Book Reviews

Bittersweet Book Love

May 16

My Favorite Things

Madison Says

The Romance Evangelist

Book Lovin’ Mamas

Read-Love-Blog

The Geekery Book Review

Reading Between the Wines

Romantic Reads and Such

Guest Post – If I Stay

12 Monday May 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

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If I Stay, Tamara Morgan

Dressing the Characters in IF I STAY

One of the biggest challenges for me as an author is to decide what my characters are wearing. As a rule, I’m not a very visual person (I prefer to deal in words, if you’d believe it), nor am I particularly fashionable one. I spend hours scouring online stores—not to replenish my own wardrobe—but to choose outfits for my hero and heroine.

My Montgomery Manor series provided a special challenge for me, since I not only had to dress a crew of downstairs staff members, but also the wealthy hotelier family they serve. Jeans and T-shirts I can handle pretty well, but designer duds? I’m useless.

Since IF I STAY focuses on the nanny and the chauffeur, I thought I’d give you a sneak peek at what they’re wearing as they go about their daily business. (Note: I created the photo boards on Polyvore, which I highly recommend to anyone who wants to lose hours upon hours of their life.)

Amy Sanders

Jeans, jean shorts, or anything else that allows her the flexibility she needs to run after a pair of active toddlers.
Loose, off-the-shoulder shirts that hint at her ballet dancing past.
Tennis shoes and other flats that give her the flexibility to move.

Ryan Lucas

Jeans or cargo pants—anything he can get dirty from all his work underneath the hood of a car.
Tight-fitting T-shirts that make the most of his muscular frame. He’s also quite partial to ‘80s band logos.
Flexible, functional footwear that’s seen plenty of use.

*****

IF I STAY

Author: Tamara Morgan

Release Date: May 12, 2014

Publisher: Carina Press

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Blurb:

Ryan Lucas would rather be anywhere but Ransom Creek, Connecticut. After losing his high-adrenaline career as a Hollywood stunt driver, he’s had to tuck his tail between his legs and take up employment as a chauffeur for the Montgomerys, a wealthy hotelier family.

Amy Sanders has returned home to Ransom Creek to take over her mother’s former position as nanny to the Montgomerys—bringing her close to dashing Jake Montgomery once again. She grew up with a major crush on Jake, and it’s not easy to leave those feelings behind, even though her friendship with the hard-edged family chauffeur, Ryan, has a sizzling undercurrent of undeniable attraction.

Amy’s determined to prove to Ryan that life at Montgomery Manor isn’t all bad, but each time they draw closer Jake swoops in. Amy is torn between two men—and two worlds. And Ryan is rapidly coming to learn that if he wants to make Amy his, he’ll have to prove to her that life downstairs can be everything they both want.

Buy Links

Amazon –http://amzn.to/1nuCkhy

Barnes and Noble –http://bit.ly/1fvImt8

iTunes –http://bit.ly/1jFHqKg

*****

Author Info:

Tamara Morgan is a contemporary romance author of humorous, heartfelt stories with flawed heroes and heroines designed to get your hackles up and make your heart melt. Her long-lived affinity for romance novels survived a B.A. degree in English Literature, after which time she discovered it was much more fun to create stories than analyze the life out of them.

Whether building Victorian dollhouses, consuming mass quantities of coffee and wine, or crying over cheesy 1950s musicals, Tamara commits to her flaws like every good heroine should. She lives in the Inland Northwest with her husband, daughter, and variety of household pets and only occasionally complains about the weather.

Website – http://www.tamaramorgan.com

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/tamaramorgan

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTamaraMorgan

Twitter – https://twitter.com/Tamara_Morgan

*****

Excerpt:

Amy scooted out from underneath Ryan and got to shaky legs. Giving in to the indulgence of a backward glance to find him staring openmouthed at her, she lifted her shirt off and tossed it to the hallway floor.

“What are you doing?” he asked, his voice gruff.

She kept moving, an extra sway in her hips as she unbuttoned her shorts and shimmied them off her hips. “Leaving you a trail of bread crumbs in case you get lost along the way.”

“Amy…”

She reached behind her and flicked open her serviceable white cotton bra. The only way to dress up that kind of bland plant material was to dangle it enticingly from one fingertip, which she did as she reached her door. It wasn’t locked—unless someone wanted to steal her ancient ten-pound laptop or her collection of Old World maps, there wasn’t much to take—so she pushed it open and slipped in.

One. Two. Three. Four. She flicked on the lights, assuming Ryan was right behind her. Five. Six. Seven. Was he seriously not going to follow her in here? Eight. Nine. Nine and a half.

She slipped out of her panties—more of the same boring white cotton, though at least they had bits of scalloped lace at the edges—and tossed them out the open door.

Nine and two-thirds. Nine and three-quarters. What the heck came after that?

“Goddammit.” Ryan stormed through the door and tossed all her clothes onto the floor. “Are you trying to kill me?”

He stopped, suspended in a swirl of desire that hit him from all sides, holding him momentarily aloft. In his haste to somehow find the ability to both walk and gather up Amy’s clothes, he’d forgotten that he held all her underclothes. Nothing stood between him and her completely naked body except distance and air—both of which mattered for absolutely zero.

*****

Giveaway:

10 sets of Tamara Morgan’s Getting Physical series (e-books)and a grab bag of contemporary romances

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/07c2365/

*****

Guest Post – Wingmen Warriors

02 Friday May 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Catherine Mann, Grayson's Surrender, Taking Cover, Wingman Warriors series

So who doesn’t love a sexy military man hero? Well, Catherine Mann has a whole set of them for us to enjoy and now you can get the first two in the same book. But before we take a look, Catherine is going to share her 10 best things about being a military wife …

*****

“Why Being a Military Wife ROCKS!”

How appropriate that this topic should land on this day, my military hubby’s birthday! So in celebration of my own personal flyboy hero’s special day, here’s one of my all-time favorite top ten lists – why being a military wife rocks!

10) He looks hot in his uniform.

9) Those obnoxious friends of his will be there for you in less than a heartbeat if you need furniture moved, broken mini-van fixed, or red tape cut.

8) His military career takes you to exotic places around the world. (Like Minot, North Dakota)

7) While he’s away, you can hog all the covers, read more romance novels and eat whatever you want while wearing flannel PJs.

6) You will form bonds with your military friends that last a lifetime.

5) There are many different uniforms for him to wear … and look hot in.

4) Moving often helps keep your closets clean.

3) No matter where you are on a trip, active duty or retired, you always know someone nearby that you’ve met at another base who would love to have you stop in for dinner.

2) The uniform!

And the number 1 reason being a military wife rocks …

1) Welcome home reunions!

Question for commenters: Where’s your favorite place you have visited?

*****

Grayson’s Surrender (Wingman Warriors #1)

and Taking Cover (Wingman Warriors #2)

by Catherine Mann

Genre: Contemporary Military Romance

Age category: Adult

Blurb:

See how it all started with the first two books in Catherine Mann’s RITA Award winning “Wingmen Warriors” series!

***This 2-in-1 is available in print only. If you wish to order the books digitally, they must be ordered individually.***

GRAYSON’S SURRENDER: Flight Surgeon Grayson Clark and NGO worker Lori Rutledge shared a passionate summer full of promise and ultimately heartbreak. After his turbulent childhood, Grayson knows well he’s ill-equipped to offer Lori the security she craves. But Grayson can’t escape Lori’s allure when they’re paired on a military rescue operation to an overseas orphanage. When one heart-tugging orphan charms her way into Lori’s life and Grayson’s heart, Lori and Grayson discover a new understanding of family – and a free-falling surrender to love.

TAKING COVER: Battle lines are drawn when Flight Surgeon Kathleen O’Connell temporarily grounds Captain Tanner Bennett from flying combat. No way does Tanner plan to watch his crew from the sidelines. Not that he has a choice, thanks to by-the-rules Kathleen and his ground duty assignment to investigate a crash. When Kathleen is teamed with him in the investigation, they’re both diving for cover as they battle an attraction ready to detonate!

You can find this 2-in-1 book Grayson’s Surrender and Taking Cover here on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19084994-grayson-s-surrender-and-taking-cover

You can buy this 2-in-1 book Grayson’s Surrender and Taking Cover here:

– Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/0373606249/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_9Cmctb0QYM3R1REZ

– Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/graysons-surrender-and-taking-cover-catherine-mann/1117542037?ean=9780373606245

You can also buy them separately.

Grayson’s Surrender:

– Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003M69WXK/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_CGmctb0SY2RQB

– B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/graysons-surrender-catherine-mann/1005244627?ean=9781426862854&itm=1&usri=9781426862854

– Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/grayson-s-surrender

– Harlequin: http://www.harlequin.com/storeitem.html?iid=41411&cid

Taking Cover:

– Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003M69VZ4/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_PHmctb1Z446B3

– B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/taking-cover-catherine-mann/1022116803?ean=9781426862861

– Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/taking-cover

– Harlequin: http://www.harlequin.com/storeitem.html?iid=45398&cid

*****

Excerpt:

Excerpt from Grayson’s Surrender:

“Nice patch there, Major.”

The words fell from her lips with a light Southern drawl, whiskey warm and just as potent.

Gray glanced down at his sleeve. Anything. Anywhere. Anytime.

The insinuation crackled along the humidity-laden air. Gray let his gaze slide back to her. “Wanna test the motto out?”

Lori laughed, husky, if a bit tight. “Same old gray.” Her chin tipped. “Been there. Done that. Lost the T-shirt.”

His arms folded over his chest. “You left it at my place.”

She laughed again. The great husky laugh of hers that rolled right into him. Just as fast, she had his hormones bombarding the defenses of his reason. Of course sex, great sex, incredible anything, anywhere, anytime sex, had never been their problem. But the minute they’d set their feet on the floor….

Excerpt from Taking Cover:

Captain Tanner “Bronco” Bennett gripped the cargo plane’s stick and flew through hell, the underworld having risen to fire the night sky.

“Anything. Anywhere. Anytime,” he chanted the combat mantra through locked teeth.

His C-17 squadron motto had gone into overtime today.

Neon-green tracer rounds arced over the jet’s nose. Sweat sealed Tanner’s helmet to his head. Adrenaline burned over him with more heat than any missile. He plowed ahead, chanted. Prayed.

Antiaircraft fire exploded into puffs of black smoke that momentarily masked the moon. The haze dispersed, leaving lethal flak glinting in the inky air. Shrapnel sprinkled the plane, tink, tink, tinking like hail on a tin roof.

Still he flew, making no move for evasion or defense.

“Steady. Steady.” He held his unwavering course, had to until the last paratrooper egressed out of the C-17 into the Eastern European forest below.

Offloading those troopers into the drop zone was critical. Once they secured the nearby Sentavo airfield, supplies could be flown into the wartorn country by morning. Starving villagers burned out of their homes by renegade rebels needed relief. Now. The scattered uprisings of the prior summer had heated into an all-out civil war as the year’s end approached.

Anything. Anywhere. Anytime. Tanner embraced it as more than a squadron motto. Those villagers might be just a mass of faceless humanity to other pilots, but to him each scared, hungry refugee had the same face – the face of his sister.

A flaming ball whipped past his windscreen.

Reality intruded explosively a few feet away. Near miss. Closer than the last. Time to haul out.

“Tag,” Tanner called over the headset to the loadmaster, “step it up back there. We gotta maneuver out of this crap. In case you haven’t noticed, old man, they’re shooting at us.”

“Got it, Bronco,” the loadmaster growled. “Our guys are piling out of this flying coffin as fast as they can.”

“Start pushing. Just get ‘em the hell off my airplane so we can maneuver.” Urgency pulsed through Tanner, buzzed through the cockpit.

His hand clenched around the stick. No steering yoke for this sleek new cargo plane. And it damned well needed to perform up to its state of the art standards today.

He darted a glance at the sweat-soaked aircraft commander beside him. “Hey, Lancelot, how’s it look left? Is there a way out on your side?”

Major Lance “Lancelot” Sinclair twisted in his seat toward the window, then pivoted back. A foreboding scowl creased the perspiration filming his too-perfect features. “Bronco, my man, we can’t go left. It’s a wall of flames. What’s it like on your side?”

Tanner leaned forward, peering at the stars beyond the side window for a hole in the sparking bursts. Bad. But not impossible. “Fairly clear over here. Scattered fire. Isolated pockets I can see to weave through.”

“Roger that, you’ve got the jet.”

“Roger, I have the jet.” He gave the stick a barely perceptible shake to indicate his control of the aircraft. Not that he’d ever lost control. Lance hadn’t been up to speed for weeks, a fact that left Tanner more often than not running the missions, regardless of his copilot status. “Tag, waiting for your all-clear call.”

“You got it, big guy.” Tag’s voice crackled over the headset. “Everybody’s off. The door’s closing. Clear to turn.”

Anticipation cranked Tanner’s adrenaline up another notch. “Hold onto your flight pay, boys, we’re breaking right.”

He yanked the stick, simultaneously ramming the rudder pedal with his boot. The aircraft banked, hard and fast.

Gravity punched him. G-forces anchored him to his seat, pulled, strained, as he threaded the lumbering aircraft through exploding volleys in the starlit sky.

Pull back, adjust, weave right. Almost there.

A familiar numbing sensation melted down his back like an ice cube. Ignore it. Focus and fly.

Debris rattled, sliding sideways. His checklist thunked to the floor. Lance’s cookies, airmailed from his wife, skittered across the glowing control panel. Tanner dipped the nose, embers streaming past outside.

The chilling tingle in his back detonated into white-hot pain. His torso screamed for release from the five-point harness.

The vise-like constraints had never been adequate to accommodate his height or bulk. Who would have thought a simple pinched nerve just below his shoulder could bring him down faster than a missile?

Doc O’Connell had even grounded him for it once before. He knew she would again in a heartbeat. If he let her.

Which he wouldn’t.

Tanner pulled a sharp turn left. The plane howled past a shower of light. He hurt like hell, but considered it a small price to pay. By tomorrow night, women and children would be fed because of his efforts, and he liked to think that was a worthwhile reason to risk his life.

Yeah, saving babies was a damn fine motivator for going to work every day. No way was he watching from the sidelines.

He accepted that none of it would bring his sister back. But each life saved, each wrong righted, soothed balm over a raw wound he knew would never completely heal.

Tanner’s hand twitched on the stick, and he jerked his thoughts back to the cockpit. He couldn’t think of his sister now. Distractions in combat were deadly.

He reined his thoughts in tight, instincts and training offering him forgetfulness until he flew out over the Adriatic Sea.

“Feet wet, crew.” Tanner announced their position over the water. “We’re in the clear all the way to land in Germany.”

He relaxed his grip on the stick, the rest of his body following suit. The blanket of adrenaline fell away, unveiling a pain ready to knife him with clean precision. Tanner swallowed back bile. “Take the jet, Lance.”

“Bronco, you okay?”

“Take the jet,” he barked. Fresh beads of sweat traced along his helmet.

Lance waggled the stick. “Roger, I have the aircraft.”

Tanner’s hand fell into his lap, his arm throbbing, nearly useless. He clicked through his options. He couldn’t avoid seeing a flight surgeon after they landed. But if he waited until morning and locked in an appointment with his pal Cutter, he would be fine. Doc Grayson “Cutter” Clark understood flyers.

No way was Tanner letting Dr. Kathleen O’Connell get her hands on him again–

He halted the thought in midair. Her hands on him? That was definitely an image he didn’t need.

Keep it PC, bud. Remember those soft hands are attached to a professional woman and a damned sharp officer.

All presented in a petite package with an iron will that matched her fiery red hair.

Forget reining in those thoughts. Tanner dumped them from his mind like an offloaded trooper.

Lance pressed the radio call button on the throttle. “Control, this is COHO two zero. Negative known damage. Thirty point zero of gas. Requesting a flight surgeon to meet us when we land.”

“What the–” Tanner whipped sideways, wrenching up short as a spasm knocked him back in his seat. “What do you think you’re doing?”

“Calling for a flight surgeon to meet us on the ground.”

In front of the crew? Tanner winced. “No need, Lance. I’ll be fine until I can get to the clinic.”

“Yeah, right.” Lance swiped his arm across his damp brow as he flew. “I’ve seen you like this before. You’ll be lucky to walk once we land. You need a flight surgeon waiting, man. I’m not backing off the call.”

“Listen, Lance–” Tanner wanted to argue, fully intended to bluster through, but the spasm kinked like an overwound child’s toy ready to snap.

He couldn’t afford to be grounded from flying again, not now. He only had six weeks left until he returned to the states to begin his rescheduled upgrade from copilot to aircraft commander. Not only could he lose his slot, but he would also lose six weeks of flying time, of making a difference.

Why the hell couldn’t he and O’Connell have pulled different rotations, leaving her back at Charleston Air Force Base with her perfectly annotated regulation book and haughty cat eyes?

The strain of ignoring the stabbing ache drizzled perspiration down Tanner’s spine, plastering his flight suit to his skin. Options dwindled with each pang.

“Fine.” Tanner bit out the word through his clenched teeth. What a time for Lance to resume control. “Just have them find Cutter to meet us. He’ll give me a break.”

Not like Doc O’Connell. She probably hadn’t colored outside the lines since kindergarten.

“And Lance, tell Cutter to keep it low key. Would ya? No big show.” Rules be damned, he wasn’t going to end a combat mission publicly whining about a backache. Cutter would understand. Tanner was counting on it.

If by-the-book O’Connell ran the show, he would be flying a desk by sunrise….

*****

TAKING COVER is a RITA Award winning novel.

Here are some review quotes:

This is Grade ‘A’ writing at it’s finest.” –Escape to Romance

“Catherine Mann is a shining star with her Wingman Warriors … right up there with Suzanne Brockmann and Lindsay McKenna!” –Reader To Reader Reviews

“Catherine Mann is a major talent…Don’t miss out on her first books and the start of a series that will have romance readers enthuse over a bright new star. ” –A Romance Review

“Catherine Mann’s first novel in the “Wingmen Warriors” is a must-read … written with sophistication, vitality and depth.” –The Best Reviews

“Catherine Mann has masterfully created very real characters and placed them in a deeply emotional conflict in GRAYSON’S SURRENDER, a warm story about the birth of a family.” –Romantic Times 4 stars

“Hot damn! The Air Force is flying into town on the wings of Catherine Mann’s fabulous new series, Wingmen Warriors… Get ready to lose your hearts to these men who pack a powerful punch to your emotions.” –Reader To Reader Reviews

“A powerfully told tale that all readers will treasure, GRAYSON’S SURRENDER comes very highly recommended.” –Word Weaving

The launch of the Wingmen Warriors series, GRAYSON’S SURRENDER starts off with rip-roaring vivacity and ends with an entirely satisfying conclusion, complete with emotionally touching pages in between. –Romance Reviews Today

“Catherine Mann’s impeccable knack for creating explosive situations, passionate encounters and combining them in the fascinating military world make her an author that you will not want to miss!” –The Romance Reader’s Connection

“Grab it up as fast as you can because it’s a keeper.” –Escape to Romance Reviews

“A dangerous mission and a passionate romance! TAKING COVER is a worthy addition to Ms. Mann’s series and one that I thoroughly enjoyed.” –The Word on Romance

“For an exciting book with true-to-life characterization, TAKING COVER is an experience not to be missed!” –Romance Reviews Today

*****

Author Info:

USA Today bestseller Catherine Mann and RITA Award winner, Catherine writes contemporary romance for Berkley, Harlequin, and Sourcebooks, With over two million books in print in more than twenty countries, she has also celebrated five RITA finals, three Maggie Award of Excellence finals and a Bookseller’s Best win. A former theater school director and university instructor, she holds a Master’s degree in Theater from UNC-Greensboro and a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts: Theater (with minors in both English and Education) from the College of Charleston. Catherine and her flyboy husband live on the Florida coast where they brought up their 4 children – and still have 5 four-legged, furry “children” (aka pets). Catherine is an active volunteer with her local Humane Society, serving on their Board of Directors and fostering puppies and special needs dogs (she stopped counting at a hundred). She recently checked off a major item on her “bucket list” by completing the hands-on training for the Florida State Animal Rescue Coalition. Catherine enjoys hearing from her readers and can be found online daily. To receive an autographed bookmark, send a SASE to: P.O. Box 6065, Navarre, FL 32566

You can find and contact Catherine here:

– Website: http://www.catherinemann.com/

– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CatherineMannAuthor

– Twitter: https://twitter.com/catherinemann1

– Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/93454.Catherine_Mann

– Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/catherinemann/

– Blog: http://www.catherinemann.com/category/blog/

– Newsletter: https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/CatherineMann_News/

*****

Giveaway:

There is a giveaway on each blog for 1 copy of winner’s choice either Rescuing Christmas (“Home for Christmas”) or Love Bites (“Dog Tags”). US & Canada only

To win, leave a comment with the name of your favorite military romance and tell everyone why.

I’ll choose a winner at random on 5/26.

*****

This blog tour is organized by Lola’s Blog Tours. The blog tour runs the whole month May, weekdays only. You can view the complete tour schedule on the website of Lola’s Blog Tours: http://www.lolasblogtours.net/blog-tour-wingmen-warriors-by-catherine-mann/

So far the Wingmen series contains 14 books: https://www.goodreads.com/series/42048-wingmen-warriors

Early Look – Fake It

30 Wednesday Apr 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Fake It, Jennifer Chance, Rule Breakers series

First up this morning we’re going to take a look at a hot new book coming out this summer, starting with a peek at the steamy cover!

*****

FAKE IT BY JENNIFER CHANCE – TEASER REVEAL AND COVER SPOTLIGHT

Jennifer Chance and Loveswept are thrilled to share the hot cover and first-look teaser of FAKE IT, the second book in the Rule Breakers series published by Loveswept!

From Jenn: “This cover is perfect for Jake–right down to the biker-inspired smoky blue flame background behind the title. It really shows that Jake and Anna’s adventure will be quite a ride!”

Read on for more about FAKE IT and a super sexy teaser!

*****

FAKE IT

by Jennifer Chance

Published by Loveswept

July 1, 2014

ISBN: 978-0-553-39228-9

Find FAKE IT on Goodreads

ABOUT FAKE IT:

As her sizzling new series continues, Jennifer Chance sparks some serious combustion between a sexy biker and a corporate go-getter who’s ready to let her hair down.

New grad Anna Richardson works hard—so hard that she’s given up having a romantic life. Anna has even convinced her friends that she’s dating an amazing guy—who they’ve simply never met. But now Anna has a wedding to attend and needs to produce the hottie she’s been lying about for the past six months. Enter Jake Flynn, her infuriating, motorcycle-riding, jaw-droppingly gorgeous neighbor, who’s more than willing to fake it for a weekend. In fact, Jake won’t be satisfied until things get real.

Though Jake is only playing the role of adoring boyfriend, he’s starting to feel the heat, and judging by Anna’s sweet blush, so is she. Letting chemistry this intense go to waste would be a real shame. Soon, though, the thin line between fantasy and reality fades. Jake may not be what every buttoned-up fast-tracker wants, but he’s sure as hell what Anna needs. And if she takes a ride with him, their adventure never has to end.

*****

TEASER REVEAL!

“Jake, the wedding would completely suck for you,” Anna protested. “My ex is a nightmare and you would hate all of my friends. You would think the whole thing is ridiculous—because it is.” He just watched her, maddeningly, his smile curving as she tried to sputter out her refusals. “You don’t want to do this. Trust me.”

“I just said I did.”

“But . . . you can’t . . . you wouldn’t . . .” Anna stopped, flustered. What was happening here? Was she actually turning down a viable date? “There’s so much you would have to memorize about Dave. There’s no way you’re going to want to do that.”

Jake just lifted his brows. “You know, for someone who’s just met me, you seem to know a lot about what I would and wouldn’t want to do.”

“I don’t! I mean, I can guess. But I just . . . can’t.” Anna swallowed. “Look, I appreciate it. If I strike out tonight, I’ll call you. How about that?”

“That sounds good.” Jake signaled to the bartender. “So I guess I should make sure you have my number, then.”

“Oh, well yes. I guess. Or, you know, I could just—” Before Anna could complete the sentence, Jake had a pen in his fingers. They were both leaning on the bar, their faces inches apart. He tipped the pen to its side, sliding its base alongside her jaw. The cool metal on her flushed skin startled her, and Anna’s gaze jumped to his. The challenge in his eyes was unmistakable.

“Hold out your hand, Anna,” he said, as if they weren’t in the middle of a crowded bar, in front of everyone.

“That’s not necessary,” she said quickly. “I have other people’s cards—you can just use—just write on one of those.”

His gaze grew hotter, more intense. “That’s no good,” he said. “You might lose it.”

Anna hesitated, then something was triggered deep inside her, and she felt a dangerous flicker of pleasure. She knew that flicker, remembered it from somewhere, even as life and work and responsibility had taught her to keep it doused, out of commission. It had been a long time since she’d let that fire burn.

But now Jake Flynn was positioned in front of her with gasoline and a blowtorch.

Someone cleared his throat beside them, and a disgruntled voice rang out. “Excuse me, I’m Gary, and your friend Lacey—”

“Take off, Gary,” Jake said without turning around. His gaze held hers. “Anna?”

Anna held out her hand, and Jake held her arm steady, cradling it with his fingers. Sensation rocketed through her at the intimate touch, intensifying sharply as she felt the smooth slide of ink on her skin. He wrote slowly, sensually, the pen tracing wickedly silken lines on the hypersensitive skin on the inside of her wrist, all the way down until he reached her palm. By the time he was finished, Anna was amazed she was still conscious. Then he glanced at her.

“Think it’s dry? Or should I blow on it?”

PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY OF FAKE IT – Want more of the Rule Breakers? ROCK IT, the first book in the series, is on sale now!

*****

Author Info:

Jennifer Chance is the award-winning author of the New Adult series Rule Breakers. A lover of books, romance, and happily-ever-afters, she lives and writes in Ohio. Visit her website and find her on Twitter.

Connect with Jennifer Chance

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Connect with Loveswept

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Guest Post – In Too Deep

28 Monday Apr 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

Due South series, In Too Deep, Tracey Alvarez

Join me this morning as Tracey Alvarez talks about her favorite kind of hero and gives us a peek at yummy West from In Too Deep.

*****

Choose your romance hero: A blue-collar works-with-his-hands type. Or, a white-collar rules-the-universe-from-his-Jaguar type. There’s a world of difference between each man but countless different ways to mix up the stereotypes.

Maybe it comes from my teenage years of reading multiple romances where the heroes were filthy rich and hired the heroine as a nanny or a secretary, but it takes a special white-collar hero to snag my interest. I admit to a long-standing lust for J.D Robb’s Roarke. I don’t think he’d appeal to me half as much if he didn’t have such a tough background which made him the man he is in the ‘In Death’ series.

Personally, I’m drawn to blue-collar heroes. Cowboys, construction workers (or the construction company owner—I’m not opposed to some wealth), cops, military men, and any man loaded with testosterone who’d be comfortable in a tool-belt. The kind of man who wouldn’t dream of calling a professional to fix the heroine’s leaky tap. A man with a smidgeon of dirt under his nails when he gets home from work, who takes seven minutes max to get ready in the morning. Who doesn’t own a tuxedo and wouldn’t know how to tie a bona-fide bow tie if his life depended on it.

West, from my first book, In Too Deep, proved a bit of a conundrum. On one hand he’s very much a blue-collar man. He manages a bar/hotel on Stewart Island—a rugged, harsh place where folk spend their whole lives carving out an existence in sometimes inhospitable conditions. West plays poker and rugby with his mates, and rides a motorbike. He’s also a pianist. He knows hair wax isn’t something derived from a bee-hive and he wears a button-down shirt to work—much to the hilarity of his mates. West knows how to fix the heroine’s leaky tap, but why waste time when he could call in a favor? Time mucking about with plumbing could be better spent coaxing Piper Harland into bed.

It’s the unexpected twists that make modern romance heroes so interesting. The construction worker who walks away from his family fortune because he wants to make it on his own merits. The CEO who teaches underprivileged kids basic carpentry skills and drives a classic Mustang, because who the heck wants to be seen driving a Jag.

I hope you enjoy reading about West in In Too Deep. He’s a slightly unconventional blue-collar hero, but he’s my kind of guy.

*****

Title: In Too Deep (Due South Book 1)

Author: Tracey Alvarez

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release Date: 20th January 2014

Blurb:

She vowed never to return.

To save her brother from financial ruin, Piper Harland must do the one thing she swore she’d never do—return to the tiny island hometown where Ryan “West” Westlake crushed her heart. Piper is tough, resilient and a little wild—much like the remote and beautiful Stewart Island where she grew up. As a cop who’s part of the elite New Zealand Police National Dive Squad, bringing the dead back to their families still doesn’t stop the guilt she feels over her father’s drowning death. Now nine years later she’s obligated to return to a hostile community as the outsider, and forced to work with the man who was once her best friend and first lover.

She’s a risk he can’t take.

West is an Island man, through and through. As owner of the local pub, he lives and breathes the local community, and sure as hell can’t imagine living anywhere else. But most of all he refuses to ever fall for a woman like his flighty mother. He lost Piper once to give her the chance to fulfil her dreams of becoming a cop. But now she’s back for an unexpected six week visit to help her brother—his best mate. Maybe West wants her a little bit, maybe he can’t resist the temptation to tease and touch her, but can he fall in love with such a flight risk?

Saying goodbye for the second time might just destroy them both.

Buy links:

Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HEZR8V8

Amazon.co.uk: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00HEZR8V8

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/in-too-deep-tracey-alvarez/1117786128?ean=2940045531726

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/389663

Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/in-too-deep/id786936923?mt=11&uo=4

Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/in-too-deep-42

*****

Author Info:

Tracey Alvarez lives in the Coolest Little Capital in the World (a.k.a Wellington, New Zealand) where she’s yet to be buried under her to-be-read book pile by Wellington’s infamous wind—her Kindle’s a lifesaver! Married to a wonderfully supportive IT guy, she has two teens who would love to be surgically linked to their electronic devices.

Fueled by copious amounts of coffee, she’s the author of contemporary romantic fiction set predominantly in New Zealand. Small-towns, close communities, and families are a big part of the heart-warming stories she writes. Oh, and hot, down-to-earth heroes—Kiwi men, in other words.

When she’s not writing, thinking about writing, or procrastinating about writing, she can be found reading sexy books of all romance genres, nibbling on smuggled chocolate bars, or bribing her kids to take over the housework.

Author Links:

Author Blog: http://www.traceyalvarez.com

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TraceyAlvarezAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TraceyAlvarezNZ

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/TraceyAlvarez

*****

Excerpt:

“Hey,” she shouted. “I wanna talk to you.”

“Leave me alone, Piper,” West’s voice rose above the running water.

He hadn’t told her to “piss off” or “stop bitching at me and go back to the city.” Progress, right?

“Not this time.” Catching West in the shower meant she’d have a captive audience.

Knowing he wouldn’t have locked it, Piper walked inside and shut the door behind her. In her imagined scenario, the steam-filled room would modestly conceal West in the shower cubicle while she talked.

She hadn’t taken into account an extractor fan. No steamed up mirrors, no fogged up shower glass, just the whirr of the fan and the hiss of the water. Plus the tanned and very bare length of West’s body. She froze beside the door and gripped the doorknob, her heart hurtling into her throat.

Thank God he faced away from her. The sight of his toned ass turned her breathing into an asthmatic wheeze. She debated a quick, quiet exit, but tossed that idea out—West was on the back foot here, since she had clothes on. Besides, the tension etched across the muscles of his back indicated he knew she was already inside.

Just keep it above neck level, say what you need to say, and get out.

She cleared her throat. “That was a crappy way to talk to your mother, you made her cry.”

West pulled his head out of the spray and scrubbed water off his face. “The woman cries at a drop of a hat, it goes with her artistic temperament.”

Then he turned.

Holy guacamole. Piper nearly wrenched the doorknob off the door. Her brain must’ve missed the memo to keep her eyes above West’s neck because, hello—nicely shaped pecs, washboard flat abs, corded thigh muscles…and then her gaze skipped straight back up to his, er, expanding interest.

“True, buhht…” Her tongue unfurled to her knees when West rubbed a bar of soap over his chest, never taking his direct, blue gaze from her.

“So you barged in here to tell me I was rude to my mother?” Water sprayed over his shoulder, running down his body. His soapy hand slid from pecs to the trail of dark hair low on his belly. A happy, happy trail indeed.

“Well, I…” She licked dry lips, looked at anything other than where his hand headed, and found her mud-flecked, crimson-cheeked reflection instead.

So much for West’s awkwardness at being butt naked—she was the one exposed and vulnerable. Her excuses for being there suddenly seemed lame. Under the circumstances maybe his reaction to Claire was understandable, and though she told his mother she’d talk to him, nothing was so important the conversation couldn’t wait until after West had finished being all wet and hot and naked.

The creak of the shower door made her jump.

“Piper?” His voice, low and loaded with seduction, blazed through her.

West left the shower, water cascading off him and onto the tiled floor. She averted her gaze and turned her back, yanking on the doorknob again. It slipped through her damp fingers.

“Is this really about my mother or did you barge in here for something else?”

The spicy scent of his shower gel curled around her and the heat of his skin singed the fine hairs on the back of her arm, but still she grappled with the stubborn doorknob.

“Like because you’re very, very muddy,” he said.

His breath touched the back of her neck, droplets of water falling on her shoulder. “There’s a clean spot here, I think.”

A thumb traced the sensitive skin behind one ear and her vision blurred.

“And another here.” Warm lips trailed along the curve where the cords of her neck met shoulder.

“But on the whole—” his hand snaked around her waist, fingers spread wide across her lower belly.

Hot shivers arrowed through her pelvis and struck its target.

“—you’re a dirty girl who should hit the shower—” He pressed her hips back against his body, shifting so his erection wedged intimately between her Lyrca-covered cheeks, “—with me.”

*****

Giveaway:

Enter for a chance to win 1 of 10 copies of In Too Deep (ebooks, 1 for each blog)

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/0173118/

*****

Tour Schedule:

April 28th–Romantic Reads and Such-Guest Post

April 29th–Bitches Be Writin-Spotlight

April 30th–The Book Queen-Interview

May 1st–Becky on Books-Spotlight

May 2nd–In Shadows-Spotlight

May 5th–My Erotic Notions-Spotlight

May 7th–Must Read Faster-Spotlight

May 8th–I’m Full of Bad Ideas-Guest Post

May 9th–YGRR-Spotlight

*****

Spotlight – Trusting Chance

17 Thursday Apr 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Sneak Peek

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Caitlyn O'Leary, Trusting Chance

As you might have noticed, I don’t discriminate based on the heat level in my books. As long as it is a good story and I get my Happy Ever After, it doesn’t matter to me if they never get past kissing or if they have down and dirty sex in graphic detail. I know that diferent people have different thresholds, so only keep reading if your’s is set to Super Hot.

Trusting Chanceis the first book in a new series written by new author, Caitlyn O’Leary. I was intrigued by the blurb but I also got a couple of sneak peeks and liked what I read, and I thought you might too. Check out the below (including a bit of Q&A with Caitlyn) and, if it seems like your cup of tea, the book released earlier this week so you can get your own copy. And make sure you come back and let everyone know what you think!

*****

If you had to choose to give up one, which would it be, chocolate or sex?

“Good-Bye cruel world, I couldn’t live here, if I was denied either one! Of course, the opposite is also implied…my happiest moments include both sex and chocolate at the same time.”

Since you’re married, describe your first date with your husband.

I was forty-five minutes late to meeting him, and he was walking out the door when I showed up. I did a sort of interview to find out if he was a “good guy”. He said he never felt more comfortable on a date. I got a lot of great information that convinced me he was a great guy and we should go out again!

Do you fall in love with the characters you write?

I fall in love with them every single time. In “Trusting Chance” I loved Chance’s mischievous humor and caring when he schemed. I loved Sam’s over protective, sometimes domineering side, but that he also had inner demons that he needed to work out. I fell in love with Josie as a great friend of mine, (even if she was so small that she could be carried around everywhere by the heroes!)

Where do you get the ideas to develop your characters?

Some things are definitely art imitating life, which makes it easy for me to understand what the characters are going through. Other things are just internal struggles that I’ve battled within my own psyche. I’m also an avid people watcher, and have worked with and listened to others for years. I’ve been blessed to see so many people struggle and grow. I hope that my characters embody the very real strength of others that I have known.

Do you ever get angry at the characters you write?

Yes, occasionally I get a little impatient them. My characters remind me of me, they are always doing something to paint themselves into a corner. For example in “Protecting Olivia” the main character always thought she was invincible because she knew that the cause she was fighting for was just, but she often ended up in harm’s way and needing help.

My characters don’t do things maliciously or stupidly they usually are trying to do what’s right, but they make a mess of things and it requires other characters to set them straight. I regularly require the people in my life to help put me back on the rails, as well. Thank God for good friends and family!

What genre(s) do you write?

I write erotica, Menage a Trois, Happily Ever After. What’s the point of writing a book without a happily ever after?

Why did you choose to write erotica?

I always knew I wanted to be a writer, and I was a fan of romances, so I was always going to write Happily Ever Afters. In the last few years, much to my husband’s delight, I’ve become a fan of erotica. I wrote a bit and found I was good at it. I truly believe we all need a little mental stimulation to keep us fantasizing and happy. This, in turn, makes our real lives so much sweeter!

Do you ever find yourself slipping away and becoming so immersed in your story it affects how you relate to others?

If I’m writing a really strong heroine, I’ll end up being a lot more blunt at work. I’ve I’m writing a more submissive heroine, I find myself deferring to others more than I normally would.

Are you in any of your books?

Because it is erotica, I have had mixed results, my husband is very supportive. All of my family is happy that I’m successful, even if they aren’t really thrilled with the genre that I’m writing. The funniest reaction is from my 80 year old father who is anxiously awaiting the print version of my first “dirty” book to come out. He’s got everyone in his retirement community and the food bank where he volunteers waiting to buy copies as well. Apparently they are all excited to read it. Thanksgiving is going to be really interesting this year.

*****

Trusting Chance

by Caitlyn O’Leary

Blurb:

Josie Decker and Chance Reynolds knew each other 25 years ago when they were in the same foster home, before her birth mother reclaimed her. Now, Chance and his best friend Sam Booth, an Afghan war veteran, are living in Fate Harbor, Washington, when Josie re-establishes ties with her former foster parents and opens a bakery in the quaint town. Chance did well in corporate America and is now free to manage his charities, but his most important project is capturing Josie’s heart.

He realizes that her time growing up with her mother has left her with physical and emotional scars and a belief that she is unworthy of love. A soul-healing sanctuary, Fate Harbor is accepting of Triad alliances, and Chance believes that he, Josie, and Sam can forge a lasting. fulfilling relationship. Sam suffered a childhood of bouncing in and out of foster care, added to recent trauma from fighting for his country that left him desolate. Chance despaired of saving the brother of his heart, but finding Josie again has given him hope that the three of them can make the perfect future together.

When Josie’s 18-year old, younger twin sisters arrive, Chance’s plans are challenged. After learning of Josie’s unorthodox relationship, one of them says the idea of the triad “hurts her heart”. Can Josie go against her beloved sister? How can Josie not follow her heart, in loving these two men unconditionally? With the help of Fate Harbor’s townfolk, a dance festival, and some hunky firemen, a happy ending is guaranteed for all.

*****

Author Info:

Caitlyn O’Leary was born and raised in a small town in the Pacific Northwest. She’s been an avid reader all her life. Her earliest creative writing endeavors consisted of “ghost writing” exercises in which she pretended to be her younger brothers and sisters when she did their homework assignments, before they turned them in as their own. Years in corporate America honed her ability to manipulate words by day, while at night she continued to read everything she could get her hands on, including many, many steamy romances!

Now, happily married to her long, tall Texan and living in Southern California, Caitlyn has finally found the time to write erotic Happily Ever Afters for Siren. She enjoys swimming, travelling, writing, babysitting her nieces and nephews, spending time with friends and family and doing lots of “research” for her upcoming novels with her husband.

Website – https://www.caitlynoleary.com/

E-Mail – Caitlyn@Caitlynoleary.com

Blog – https://www.caitlynoleary.com/blog

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/caitlyn.oleary.35

Twitter – https://twitter.com/CaitlynOLearyNA

*****

Excerpt:

“I don’t require a keeper, Sam. I’d like you to leave.” He turned to her.

“I think you need someone to watch out for you, someone who cares about you. When was the last time you had someone you could lean on?” When he saw her confused expression, he had his answer.

“How many people have you taken care of over the years?” he asked quietly.

Josie bit her lip, and he just couldn’t help himself, he brushed his fingers over her mouth, rescuing that bit of flesh. “I would love it if you would let me take care of you; just a little bit…is that so wrong?” He cupped her face, and bent for a slow taste of those luscious lips.

Josie couldn’t stop her response. His words had unlocked something deep within her. She couldn’t remember a time when she could literally lean into someone, and she reveled in it. Her arms lifted to encompass his broad shoulders. God, he felt so hard, so good and strong. Trying to get even closer she lifted up on her toes, and gasped in pain. He felt it in their kiss, and correctly interpreted it. He broke away and looked at her. In one quick moment, she was lifted in his arms and then found herself settled on his lap on her sofa. She looked up at him in wonder. “You’ll hurt yourself doing that,” she admonished.

“Baby, you’re just a little thing,” Sam said.

Josie snorted in disbelief.

“Okay, you’re lush and curvy, just the way I love women. I can’t stand a woman who’s going to blow away at the first strong wind. But, Josie, compared to me, you are a little thing, and you’re the perfect size, with the absolute perfect body. Do you understand me? Are you finally hearing me?” Josie looked up at him, and saw the absolute truth on his face. She turned away, and nuzzled his neck, not wanting him to see the sheen of tears in her eyes. This man, who made her blood sizzle, was turning her self-image upside down. She felt like a huge weight had been lifted from her heart.

“I know we’re going to talk about our injuries, but can you please tell me how such a beautiful woman could think she needed to hide in clothes four times her size? How she could think that she wouldn’t have men falling at her feet?” Josie couldn’t help giggling at the outrageous statement.

“I’m serious, Baby. At least a quarter of your male customers are coming into Sweet Dream Desserts to see the sights, not for the pastries.” Sam tilted her head so she was forced to look at him. “Let me guess, it was some guy who convinced you that you, you were less than perfect.”

“Actually, it started way earlier than that. My mom was one of those women who would blow away in the wind, and she was constantly harping on my weight. So, it’s pretty much ingrained that I’m fat. And, yeah, I got pretty serious about a guy, and when I finally agreed to sleep with him, well, he wasn’t all that impressed with my body. He insisted the lights be turned off.” Josie had to turn away from Sam. She couldn’t stand to see pity in his eyes.

Once again he turned her face, and she ended up looking up at him, and what she saw was anger. “Baby, that should never have happened. I understand a parent belittling you, boy do I understand that, but I can’t understand the asshole issues. If I was lucky enough to get a chance to make love to you, I would want all the lights on. I wouldn’t want to miss a thing.”

Guest Post – Through His Eyes

14 Monday Apr 2014

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

≈ 1 Comment

This morning the wonderful Deborah Camp gives us newbie writers some tips and then lets us take a peek at her newest book, Through His Eyes. . . which looks perfect for those who dig suspense stories. Enjoy!

*****

Tips for Novice Writers – and Reviewers!

Hi, everyone! Thanks for allowing me the chance to blog with you.

When I taught writing there was always a student in every class who would approach me after having a few pages edited by me and ask, “Should I just give up writing?” To which I would answer, “If all it takes is for me to tell you to, then by all means, give it up!”

Sure, I knew the student wanted me to stroke and coo and say, “No, you must not quit!” But really? If that’s all it had taken for me to stop writing, I would have thrown away my pen and paper in fifth grade!

If you’re a writer, you write. Doesn’t matter if no one but you reads it. Stories and characters waltz about in your brain and you simply have to allow them to blossom into text. However, once we do allow our works to be seen by people other than those who personally know us, then we have to learn to accept criticism and we must understand when to take advice to heart and when to dismiss it. These are difficult lessons to master.

Here are the top three things I’ve learned from reviewers:

Get as many reviews as possible from people you don’t know. Look for similar praise and beefs. If several reviewers praised your snappy dialogue, rejoice and strive to make your dialogue sparkle even more. Conversely, if several reviewers note that your pace is slow or that it was difficult to understand her heroine’s motivation, take a close look at those hiccups. Fix them before you write your next book.
When reviewers find typos or bad grammar and punctuation, hire a professional editor and proofreader for your next project. Be aware that editors and proofreaders aren’t the same thing. Editors discuss plotting, characterization, pacing, word choices, and sentence structure. Proofreaders catch typos, incorrect punctuation, misspellings, and continuity mistakes.
Be sure that the people who review your books actually like the type of book you’ve written. I’ve had yucky reviews from people who admitted that “I don’t usually read this kind of thing” or “romances aren’t my cup of tea.” I dismiss those. Same goes for the editor you choose. Ask the editor who she/he has read in your genre and what her/his favorite books are in your genre. If she/he hasn’t read any books that have been published in the past two years, then she/he probably isn’t savvy about what’s hot and what’s not in your field.

In closing, let me also caution you not to reply to a reviewer or editor until you’ve given yourself a day to think about it. Temper whatever you say or write, understanding that your work was published and people have a right to their opinion. With reviewers, it’s best to thank them, taking them to task only when they get “personal” in their critiques. With editors, it’s best to discuss why and how you can improve what you’ve put on paper. Great editors can make you a great writer, so when you find one, don’t ruin the relationship by being too cantankerous and stubborn.

*****

Through His Eyes

by Deborah Camp

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Date of Publication: April 4, 2014

Number of pages: 392

Word Count: 100,000

Cover Artist: Patricia Schmitt

Blurb:

Two psychics – one serial killer.

Someone is stalking women and murdering them in Key West.

Levi Wolfe and Trudy Tucker join forces to help identify the murderer and stop him. Levi can channel the deceased victims and Trudy can tap into the mind of the killer. As a psychic detective team, they’re formidable. As lovers, they discover that they’re insatiable.

But if Trudy can see through the killer’s eyes, can the killer see her?

Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/0JSQzxC8njM

Available at Amazon

*****

Excerpt:

Trudy drew in a breath and told herself to chill out. Levi sat in the rattan chair to her right, crossed his legs, and flicked a white thread from his black trousers. He was the picture of calmness and she felt as if her chest was full of butterflies.

“Do you two have separate rooms?” Trudy asked, trying to drive past her nervousness and get Quintara’s goat.

Levi smirked and glanced at a cackling Quintara.

“Levi’s too busy seducing all the pretty television anchor women to want to share a room with a well-rounded, older enchantress like me. Isn’t that right, Levi?”

“You’re the one who was announcing your room number to every waiter and barkeep we ran into last night.”

“And a lot of good it did me,” Quintara said, flipping her string of red beads and puckering her lips in a pout. “But let’s talk about murder.” She glanced from him to Trudy. “Have you felt anything, dear? He’s been talking to you, hasn’t he?”

Trudy fidgeted on the sofa. “Yes, a little. I don’t know . . .”

“You do know,” Quintara said, her tone scolding, scalding. “You have felt him?”

“Yes.” The word almost stuck in her throat. She glanced toward Levi and flinched when she saw that he was completely focused on her. Talk about intense! It was like she was being blasted by a laser beam. “He’s thinking of murdering a barmaid that he knows. But I’m not entirely sure—.” She caught the rapier-edged glance Levi and Quintara exchanged. “What?”

“You have the right person, dear.” Quintara nodded to a folded newspaper on the coffee table. “A barkeep was murdered last night. He mutilated her.”

“Oh, no!” Feeling as if she had been socked in the gut, Trudy reached for the newspaper and located the front page article easily. The details were sketchy. No clues. No leads. Used a serrated knife. Mutilation. Worked at the Gold Lagoon on Canal Street. A shiver ran through her and guilt brought hot tears to the back of her eyes. “I should have told you about the vision sooner.”

“And what? We would have cased out every bar in Key West and warned the potential victims?” Quintara shrugged. “We must have more to go on than that, dear. We’ll put our heads together and create a profile of this killer. We’ll get to know him so well that we can predict his movements. Eventually, we’ll be ahead of him and be able to identify him and help catch him.”

Trudy turned toward Levi to find that he was still studying her, one brow slightly arched. “What have you been getting about this guy?” she asked.

He lifted one broad shoulder. “The victims haven’t given me much to go on yet. They didn’t see him coming and were knocked out. The woman before this one – Janie Fullbright was her name – was blindfolded, gagged, and when she came to, her wrists and ankles were tied. She was a heroine addict.” He held out a hand for the newspaper. He wore a silver ring on his middle finger and the square black onyx in it glinted in the sunlight.

When he moved, Trudy caught a whiff of lemony lime. One cool customer, she thought. Everything about him was controlled, calculated almost. But there was an undercurrent of turmoil just below his polished surface. She’d always felt it and that intrigued her about him –more than his psychic abilities or his reputation as a womanizer.

*****

Author Info:

Author of more than 50 novels, Deborah lives in Oklahoma. She has been a full-time writer since she graduated from the University of Tulsa. Her background as a reporter for newspapers helped her to write fast and enjoy research. After she sold her first few books, she quit newspaper work to become a freelance writer and novelist.

Deborah’s first novel was published in the late 1970s and her books have been published by Jove, New American Library, Harlequin, Silhouette, and Avon. She has been inducted into the Oklahoma Authors Hall of Fame and she is a charter member of the Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of the Author’s Guild. She was the first recipient of the Janet Dailey Award.

Through His Eyes (April, 2012) is her first romantic suspense book. It has paranormal elements and is erotic. She plans at least two more books featuring Levi Wolfe and Trudy Tucker.

Also widely published in non-fiction, she and writes and edits for a magazine focused on small businesses. Deborah taught fiction writing for more than 10 years at a community college. She has been a guest speaker at numerous writers’ conferences, including Romance Writers of America (RWA), Writers, Inc., and the Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc. She has served as a judge in numerous writing contests throughout the United States and has judged manuscripts in RWA’s Golden Heart Awards and RITA Awards. She is currently working on her next historical romance set in the wild, wonderful west.

In 2012 her books were re-issued on Amazon for Kindle Direct and have attracted tens of thousands of new fans.

Deborah’s website www.deborah-camp.com

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

Blog www.deborahcampwritersdesk.blogspot.com

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/198990.Deborah_Camp

About the Books

Too Tough to Tame

“THIS IS A WONDERFUL BOOK.”

The book is funny and touching. I have read this book over 50 times already and I never get tired of it. Tess is so cute while Storm is strong and loving. They made a great couple. — Amazon review from Snowstar

Tough Talk and Tender Kisses

“ABSOLUTE GOLD!”

This is definitely the best novel in the “Tough Man” series. The entire series is great; this one just happens to be my favorite. I absolutely adore Reno Gold (hero) and I love how he wins Adele with love and humor. — Amazon review from A. Gideon

Lover of the west and the people who tried to tame it, Deborah likes to write about strong, independent women and the men who are their equals. She grew up on a diet of TV westerns which have served her well. Living in Oklahoma has also been a godsend. Since she appreciates men with devilish twinkles in their eyes, she likes to mix laughter in with the love scenes in her books.

Cheyenne’s Shadow

“ONE OF THE BEST!”

One of the best romance novels I have ever read. There is excitement, sadness, and passion in this book. I know I have read this book at least five times since I bought it. — Amazon review by S. Ceballos

A Tough Man’s Woman

“FIVE STARS!”

I really enjoyed this book as it was one that kept you guessing most of the time. — Amazon review from Phyl

Lonewolf’s Woman

“WONDERFUL STORY!”

Ah, fascinating to the last drop (or page). Highly recommended. Surely, a keeper! — Amazon review from M. Hartmann

Black-eyed Susan

“FIVE STARS!”

I found it hard to put down. It made me realize how things were in those years (long before I was born). I looked for more books by the same author. — Amazon review from C. Schmidt

Lady Legend

“I LOVED IT!”

The main characters in the book, Copper and Tucker, are great together even though they are totally different. I never read any of Deborah Camp’s books before, but after reading this one, I’m looking for more. — Amazon review from Love to Read Jan.

Books by Deborah Camp

Amazon Exclusive Release

To Seduce and Defend

Amazon Kindle Novella

The Madcap and the Miser 2012

Avon Historical Romances

Blazing Embers

Primrose

Fire Lily

Black-eyed Susan

Fallen Angel

Cheyenne’s Shadow

My Wild Rose

Lady Legend

Too Tough To Tame

Tough Talk, Tender Kisses

A Tough Man’s Woman

Harmony Hardcover

Belle Starr, Bandit Queen

Silhouette Romances

To Have, To Hold

Devil’s Bargain

This Tender Truce

Silhouette Special Edition

For Love or Money

In a Pirate’s Arms

Just Another Pretty Face

Vein of Gold

Right Behind the Rain

After Dark

Master of Moonspell

Harlequin Temptation

The Butler Did It

Wrangler’s Lady

Hook, Line, and Sinker

Love Letters

Weathering the Storm

The Second Mr. Sullivan

A Newsworthy Affair

Destiny’s Daughter

Taming the Wild Man

Oklahoma Man

Rapture Romance

Sweet Passion’s Song

A Dream to Share

Winter Flame

Midnight Eyes

Riptide

Serenade Romances

Tomorrow’s Bride

To Have and to Hold Romances

They Said it Wouldn’t Last

Strange Bedfellows

Available for the Kindle:

Wild Hearts

Passionate Hearts

Daring Hearts

Tender Hearts

Dangerous Hearts

Love and Laughter

Love and Adventure

Love Everlasting

*****

Tour Schedule:

April 7 Guest blog and review

Diaries of 2 Thick Chicks

http://diariesof2thickchicks.blogspot.com/

April 7 Spotlight

3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too!

http://3partnersinshopping.blogspot.com

April 8 Guest blog

More Romance Please

moreromanceplease.blogspot.com

April 8 Spotlight and review

Deb Sanders

http://DebSanders.com

April 9 Interview

Darkest Cravings – Adult Blog

http://darkestcravings.blogspot.com

April 9 Spotlight

Clutter Your Kindle

clutteryourkindle.com

April 10 Guest blog

The Snarkology

www.melissasnark.blogspot.com

April 10 review

Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock

www.pratr.wordpress.com

April 10 Interview

Butterfly-o-Meter Books

http://butterfly-o-meter.com/

April 11 Guest Post

Ebook Escapes

http://ebookescapes.com

April 11 Spotlight

Booklover Sue

http://bookloversue.blogspot.com/

April 11 Spotlight

Share My Destiny

http://sharemydestiny.blogspot.com

April 14 Guest blog

Romantic Reads and Such

http://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpress.com

April 14 Spotlight

Shut Up & Read

http://shutupandreadgroup.blogspot.com/

*****

Click on the banner below for more information on this tour!

Guest Blog – Ripe For Trouble

11 Friday Apr 2014

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

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Autumn Piper, Book Review, Ripe For Trouble

I’m super excited that we are hosting Autumn Piper this morning as she gives a little insight into her newest book Ripe For Trouble. She was nice enough to give me an advance copy so I’m sharing my thoughts on the story as well. Happy Friday!

*****

Hometown Do-Over: Back for More, or Oh, Heck No?

For some people, their teenage/high school years were their glory days. Others are happy that time is behind them. For most of us, the memories are a mashup of good and God-please-let-me-forget.

Maybe because teenage romance is involved, homecoming stories are fraught with angst, humor and often, revenge. Going back to one’s hometown usually means strife from close contact with family members, but it could also involve running into any number of people: old teachers, friends, that one special…nemesis. Or, perhaps, an old flame.

As a writer, I love the fertile ground of the “going home” theme. Maybe because I’ve been both the person living in her birth town as an adult, and also the person who left (three times I moved out of state and still end up back here!).

So. If you’ve moved away from your hometown (and stayed away), would you go back there if you could?

In Ripe for Trouble, Ivy not only goes back to her hometown; she moves back there. This is an act of true bravery, because she never fit in with her classmates. So now she has to face her old fears, her old nickname, and also an old crush.

Things don’t go so well when they meet up again for the first time. She’s just come up behind and overheard him and a friend rehearsing cheesy pickup lines:

EXCERPT:

So this was what life looked like from under the bus.

Ridley cleared his throat and turned to face the pumpkin patch goddess.

Her hands were on her hips, her eyes narrowed. “You!”

“You,” he repeated. Couldn’t be. Of course it was. “Ivy? Ivy League—er, Leeds.” The girl who’d gotten away had returned.

She curled her lip, kept those eyes squinted on him. “Well, well. If it isn’t Ridley Tucker. So you graduated from using crappy pickup lines on every female in sight, to using them on guys now?”

They were just…goofing around. And she was the same too-good-for-him snot as always. He lifted his chin. “Looks like you graduated from Princeton so you could be a pumpkin farmer in Rifle, Colorado.”

“Yale.” If her eyes narrowed any more, she wouldn’t be able to see the light of day. But hey, at least he’d managed to make her turn red. And at least she wasn’t hiding her eyes behind those giant glasses like she had in school. “I’m here helping my uncle for the weekend, and I have a job in town starting Monday.” Probably some fancy-pants lawyer going to court against a big company or something. “It’s good to see you didn’t end up in prison.” She looked him up and down, probably surprised to see him in new, clean jeans with no holes and a real white t-shirt meant to be worn alone, instead of a wife-beater. “I better get back to work. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance.” Her words said she’d help if he needed it, but her tone said she’d help him rot in hell if she could. She turned and strode away.

Sweet Jesus. She did not have an ass like that in high school. Same eyes, though. Like a clear sky on a warm September day up on the flattops. She’d definitely improved since her school days.

“Struck out, huh?” Miguel crossed his arms over his chest, and watched her walk. “Too bad. But you’re not givin’ up, right?”

Ridley blew a raspberry. “We…kinda know each other. Graduated together.”

“Yeah, buddy! Guaranteed score. Now you’re the rich guy with a TV show. You told her about the show, right?”

He shook his head. No point in playing that card. To Ivy Leeds, the smartest good-girl Rifle High had ever turned out, he’d always be Ridley Tucker, the fringe wannabe with a minor juvie record and unemployed parents who spent their days at the corner bar. She was right; it was amazing he hadn’t ended up in prison.

*****

RIPE FOR TROUBLE

by Autumn Piper

Blurb:

The biggest mistake she didn’t quite make just sauntered back into her life.

When Ivy Leeds takes a publicity job in her hometown, few things have changed…but Ridley, the bad boy of her graduating class, has cleaned up his act. Or so everyone else thinks. After hearing him and his friend practicing pickup lines, she has her doubts.

Ridley Tucker can hardly believe his eyes when Ivy, the president of the Brainiac Club, comes back to town. Some things never change—she’ll barely give him the time of day, and she still looks as good as she did that night at Prom.

Living in a small town means avoiding someone is nearly impossible, and those most worthy of avoidance turn up in such awkward places…

Content Warning: High school flame revisited plus reformed bad-boy equals combustion suitable for adults only.

*****

Author Info:

Born and raised in itty-bitty Rifle, Colorado, Autumn Piper studiously avoided trouble…but is now inclined toward it, particularly in her novels. She thinks the best things in life are funny, and the runners-up, romantic.

An admitted carb addict, Autumn writes, edits, manages two teenagers, one husband and many supersize houseplants, and does the cooking and cleaning when forced to.

Got romance? WEBSITE FACEBOOK TWITTER

*****

Review:

I have to say that I really needed this book to be longer. I love the idea of it but there is SO much potential here. It’s one of those cases where I really liked the characters but I wanted to know more about them. We get a brief explanation of their history but it has so much more that could be explored. We also get a glimpse at them now, how they are different from before, but again there is so much potential on the transformation.

For a snapshot in time, though, it is great. At 35 pages, it is a very fast read and fun. I felt for both of them because they have that horrible history to overcome. And, although I totally understand where Ivy is coming from, I really wanted her to give Ridley a break. It’s been a long time since high school and he could have changed. I think a conversation or two with a local would have helped the situation … but then there wouldn’t have been a story.

Ridley seems sweet and honest and like he’s turned his life around. This is one of those places where I really wished we had more pages – I’m assuming that becoming a dad helped with that transition. His son is absolutely adorable and the love they share is so cute.

Ripe for Trouble is cute and fun and the perfect read when you’ve got about an hour to kill. You’ll get through it quickly and be looking for more.

*****

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