Home Is Where The Hunk Is – My #Review

Today, I’m blogging about fellow author Nancy Fraser, and her latest release, Home Is Where The Hunk Is, which came out in October. I’m not gonna lie; this is one of those books that defines the concept of judging a book by its cover. Seriously, it’s gorgeous. Tell me you don’t agree:

Here’s the book blurb:

When globe-trotting photographer Allison Cain comes home to her family ranch in Montana it’s to get to know her nephew and to make amends with the widowed brother-in-law she’s left alone to raise his young son.

Evan Carver could never deny his late wife’s younger sister anything, despite the fact she’s been conspicuously absent over the past three years since her sister’s death. Now she’s home again on what she’s called an extended vacation. Evan’s first concern is for his son, Cody, and how his aunt’s visit will affect the five year old when she decides to return to her high profile career.

Allison has no intention of going back to work. In addition to getting to know Cody, she needs to confess her biggest secret to Evan. How do you tell the man you’ve always loved that you’re not just his son’s aunt, but also his mother?

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I had the pleasure of recently reading this book, and I figured I’d share my review with you all.

Home is Where the Hunk Is is a story about inadvertent deceptions and secret loves, with a ranch in Montana as a backdrop. It isn’t quite a western, but there are a lot of elements that would appeal to those who enjoy reading western romance. The author does a wonderful job of describing ranch life, of making the reader feel as though we are there, on the ranch, with Ali, Evan, and Cody.

Ali and Evan have known one another forever, as their parents’ ranches butted up against one another. Ali has harbored a crush on Evan since she hit puberty, and was forced to watch from the sidelines while he courted and eventually married her older sister, Elaine. When Elaine approached her about being a surrogate mother to their child, Ali thought she was doing the right thing by agreeing. She didn’t find out Evan didn’t want her to be the surrogate until it was too late. Now, Ali is back home, on the ranch she has always loved, and is determined to do right by her son, and his father.

Cody is the adorable outcome of Ali’s decision to become Evan and Elaine’s surrogate. He is such a charming child, the reader will not be able to help falling in love with him – or his wonderfully mischievous puppy, Riley.

Evan is Cody’s father, Ali’s brother-in-law, and the object of her desires. His wife died of cancer, and he’s just trying to raise his son and take care of the combined ranches. And trying to keep his hands off his sister-in-law, because he figures she’s only in town for a short while, and then she’ll leave again and possibly leave him with a broken heart. He doesn’t know she’s Cody’s biological mother, or that she intends to stay forever – if he’ll let her. While I am not necessarily a fan of men who expect men and women to hold to traditional roles in their relationships, I know there are many, many readers out there who would swoon at the idea of a man who is determined to take care of everything. Those readers will love Evan, and will wish they could take him home to take care of a few chores around their house.

I give Home Is Where The Hunk Is four stars. It’s an easy, enjoyable read, and to be perfectly honest, it made me want to take a vacation out to Montana, to find that secret swimming hole with the waterfall, where it all began for Ali and Evan.

Are you interested in checking it out for yourself? Home Is Where The Hunk Is just released in October. It’s available on Amazon.

Are you interested in learning more about the author? Here’s Nancy’s bio:

Like most authors, Nancy Fraser began writing at an early age, usually on the walls and with crayons or, heaven forbid, permanent markers. Her love of writing often made her the English teacher’s pet, which, of course, resulted in a whole lot of teasing. Still, it was worth it.

When not writing (which is almost never), Nancy dotes on her five beautiful grandchildren and looks forward to traveling and reading when time permits. Nancy lives in Atlantic Canada where she enjoys the relaxed pace and colorful people. She invites you to visit her website (www.nancyfraser.ca) and follow her on Twitter (@nfraserauthor). Or, more importantly, just enjoy what she writes.

Nancy also blogs, and is on Facebook and Goodreads:

Blog: http://nancyfraser.ca/wordpress/

Facebook: http://facebook.com/nancyfraserauthor

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7206382.Nancy_Fraser

Thank you, Nancy, for the enjoyable read and the happily ever after. And thank you, readers, for taking the time to read my opinion on Nancy’s book. Be sure to check back next week. There’s always a new post, at least once per week. Until then, happy reading!

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November 3, 2014 2

Celebrate the Season with the Caretaker’s Lady

Today, I turn my blog over to Rita Bay, blogger and author extraordinaire. A few weeks ago, when my latest release, Love Gumbo, came out, Rita featured me (specifically, my writing desk) on her blog. The post is here. Now that she has (another) new release, the least I can do is return the favor. So let me introduce you to an amazing author … Rita Bay!

Thank you to Tami for allowing me to visit and write about my favorite season. Fall is approaching and I’m amazed at the change of color in the Blue Ridge Mountains. On the Gulf Coast, we’re lucky to see an occasional popcorn tree change color. Over a weekend, green leaves clinging tenaciously to trees morph into fallen detritus scattered on the ground in desperate need of raking. Not so in Georgia.

The extent of my knowledge about Georgia was a state mostly covered in red clay. Not being a fan of red clay, I pretty much crossed the state off the list of places I would live, even temporarily. Then I discovered North Georgia. I never expected to find magnificent mountain vistas, orchards and farms, and year-round festivals celebrating mountain life.

While writing The Caretaker’s Lady, I needed a magical place for famous romance author Cathy Morrow to rediscover her muse. Where better than a mountain resort? So… In a luxurious resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia where the trees stand cloaked in fall colors, the apples and pumpkins are ripe for harvest, and pots of apple cider simmer beside the fireplace, a couple in the autumn of their lives surrender to lust and discover love.

Pass the grits and call me y’all. Jasmine Bloom, queen of the bodice rippers for three decades, never thought she would become a victim of writer’s block. When family stress causes Cathy Morrow, who writes as Jasmine Bloom, to miss a deadline, Blaylock Publishing accepts a mysterious invitation for Cathy to visit The Mountain Ridge Resort to revive her muse.

Divorced for two decades with three grown children and two grandsons living in her home, Cathy can’t find the inspiration she needs to write the sizzling-hot romances that gained her fame and fortune. At the resort, Cathy meets a hot maintenance worker who warms the cool nights. Will she be content to role-play his favorite scorching-hot love scenes from her novels then return home to her dull routine?

The caretaker’s job at the resort allows billionaire John Murdock to live the life he loves in the Blue Ridge Mountains and keep a centuries-old family vow. When Cathy Morrow arrives at the resort, she lights a fire he’d banked years ago. Will she look beyond his white hair and menial job to appreciate what he offers—passion with the prospect for love?

John stopped on the path. She halted beside him.

“Close your eyes for a moment while we step onto the overlook.”

She frowned. “That requires a bit of trust.”

He squeezed her hand. “You can always trust me, Cathy.”

“Okay.” She closed her eyes and took his arm as he guided her forward a few feet.

“Open your eyes now.” She heard the excitement in his voice. Then she saw why.

The Blue Ridge Mountains lay before them in their early autumn colors. In places, the clouds obscured the sunlight, creating a chiaroscuro patchwork of brilliant color and shadow in the valleys and on the mountainsides.

“Thank you for sharing this with me, John. It’s magnificent. Pristine, as though people have never walked these mountains.”

He laced his arms around her and pulled her close. “They seldom do. Several thousand acres belong to the resort. I prefer this to the manicured beauty of the areas surrounding the buildings. State and federal lands, which will never be developed, lie beyond.”

“Do you bring guests here often?”

“No. When we walked beyond the gate, we were in a private area. I never wear my uniform here. None of the staff would bring guests up here. It can be a dangerous hike, definitely not for someone unaccustomed to walking.”

She’d noticed his jeans and sweater when he entered her suite. He looked really good in the casual clothing, but she hadn’t realized the significance. “You brought me here. John, not the caretaker. It’s a date.”

“Exactly. Besides, you’re in great shape. I had no doubt you could manage the hike. You might be sore in the morning, here and there.”

John removed his backpack and set it beside them. “I have a surprise for you.”

BUY LINKS: Liquid Silver Books / Amazon

Rita Bay – WEBPAGE & BLOG / FACEBOOK / PINTEREST / AMAZON

Rita Bay happily writes sizzling contemporary stories, historical romance sagas, shapeshifter and vampire tales, and humorous mythology-based erotic romps. Her stories are set near her home in Atlanta, along the Gulf Coast, and in picturesque locales across Europe. Her webpage/blog (http://ritabay.com) offers more info about Rita and her stories, as well as risqué, macabre, and extraordinary posts about the history and culture of Western Europe and the United States.

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Did you enjoy this post? There’ll be a new one next week. Be sure to check back again. And if you have a chance to read one of Rita’s books, please consider leaving a review wherever you purchased it. Thank you!

September 19, 2014 2

DAY TWO: A Week of Wands, Fangs, & Wings Paranormal Blog Tour

Welcome to DAY TWO of

A Week of Wands, Fangs and Wings – A Paranormal Book Blog Tour!

From August 15-22, we will feature books by EIGHT different authors who write paranormal. What do we mean by paranormal? Well, just as the title implies: wands, fangs, wings and everything in between. Pretty much, if it isn’t real, it might be here. If you enjoy reading all things paranormal, we are about to hand you heaven on a gilded plate. Or, at least, on your e-reader.

What do we have in store for you? Excerpts from cool books. A fun Q&A session with the even-cooler authors who wrote them. A rafflecopter contest in which you could win a total of ELEVEN e-books. Wait, let’s note that again, just for clarification.

Eleven. Books. Free.

Score! The contest closes Thursday at midnight eastern and the winner will be announced Friday evening, so don’t forget to enter. As if you would. In the meantime, let’s learn about Rachel Medhurst and Misti Murphy, and their featured books, The Deadliners and Raven Falling!

Let’s talk to Misti Murphy first. She has lived in a fantasy world most of her life, so it’s no surprise she’s ended up writing paranormal books. She also loves Facebook. Speaking of, you can find Misti at ‪https://www.mistimurphy.weebly.com on Facebook: ‪https://www.facebook.com/mistileemurphy and on Twitter @mistileemurphy.

We asked Misti a few get-to-know-you questions, and this is what she had to say:

1. Do you like heroines who get rescued, or heroines who do the rescuing? Everyone needs someone to rescue them, having said that I believe in strong heroines who can step up and be the rescuer.

2. Morning or Evening? I don’t sleep well so evening is always better for me, and besides everything is better in the dark!

3. Favorite book genre? Romance, as long as it has some romance to it I’m happy.

4. Sweet or Spicy? Definitely Spicy, no wait, definitely sweet. I’ll take both please.

5. Ebook or print? Both have their good points. Ebooks are easier to store. With the amount I read I would be on an episode of Hoarders if it weren’t for ebooks. However, as an author it’s always nice to flip through carefully bound pages.

Hmm… What sort of book do you think Misti writes? Here’s a taste below of Raven Falling:

He handed her two more blades. “I want you to try and hit a moving target.”

“How am I going to do that?” There was nothing here to hit beside the damn trees.

“Aim at me.” Ash was in her face, his big gray eyes solemn as he pressed the blades into her hands.

Raven frowned. “You can’t be serious.”

“Of course I am. I’m going to run and you are going to try and hit me.”

“But what if you get hurt?” she asked, scared she would have to see him bloody, or even dead by the time they were finished. She couldn’t hurt him. He was the only person who knew what she was going through, and she needed him.

“Rae, I’m an Angel remember? I promise you won’t hurt me.” His hands had moved to her shoulders, and he gave them a light squeeze as he tried to assure her everything would be fine.

“I don’t want to.” She shook her head. How could he ask her to do this?

“I know but you have to practice.” He let go of her, running across the clearing, in a zigzagging move, which made it more difficult for her to hit him. He didn’t need to. It was already the hardest thing she had ever had to do.

Raven watched him, as she felt the tears prick her eyes. He looked back at her, encouraging, no demanding she do what he needed her to do. She fought her own body as she slowly raised her arm and aimed at him, following him across the clearing with her eyes. Balancing the blade in her hand she concentrated on her target. It was only two blades. She could do this. She let the first one go, flinging it hard, hearing the almost silent whistle as it hurtled toward him. Shutting her eyes, she didn’t see if the blade had reached its intended target. Taking a deep breath she prepared to throw the next.

He was still running across the clearing, she hadn’t managed to hit him. She pulled herself up, straightening her spine and gripped the handle of her final blade tightly. She slowly brought her arm up, visualizing her target, several feet away from where he had been. Pulling her hand back to her ear she pushed all the strength she could muster into her shoulder and hurled the blade, watching as it spun through the air.

She collapsed to the ground her eyes never leaving the blade as it reached its destination at the exact same time he did. She was sure the blade had hit its mark, when she saw him fall to the ground. She sprinted toward him as he pulled himself up onto his knees. The blade lay in the grass next to him, its tip bent flat. She felt the tears gather and she struggled to hold them back, her relief palpable. She sank down into the grass beside him and pressed her palms to her eyes to keep the tears from escaping.

****

Now let’s talk to Rachel Medhurst. Rachel grew up in Surrey, England. She writes to prove that no matter where you come from, you can be anything you want to be.

Find Rachel at ‪www.rachelmedhurst.com, on facebook at ‪Rachel Medhurst – Writer and on twitter @rachelmedhurst, and check out her interview below:

1. Fave paranormal author? That would have to be Kim Harrison, I love the Rachel Morgan Series.

2. If you weren’t a writer, what would you be? A dancer. I love to dance along to most music.

3. Do you already have an actor in mind to play the hero when your book becomes a movie? Who? – Yes, Gerrard Butler would be Danny… and I would love to help him on set.

4. Writing inspiration? Enid Blyton – Her books made me want to write to give hope and happiness to people.

5. Fave Vampire series? Blackdagger brotherhood. I love this series a lot!

Interesting – and amusing – answers! Let’s check out the excerpt of The Deadliners:

‘Last time we were here, you bargained with me for an extension of six months.’

Nodding, she ignored the burning muscles in her throat. Her feet were firmly planted and her hands were at her side.

‘And the time before that…?’

‘I got the deadline extended for two years.’ She lowered her slender frame onto the grass and leant her back against the cold wall. His shoulders dropped but he stayed standing as he looked down at her.

‘Two years and six months later, here we are again. Are you satisfied that everything’s been done?’

Her head bent back, her bobbed brown hair brushed her shoulders and her eyes landed on the top floor window directly above her. Shaking her head, she let air rush out of her lungs.

‘I’m sorry, Anna, I can’t give you any more time. I’ll give you this though…the rest of today, to spend here, before you come back.’

Her neck snapped forward, her gaze landing on the red cigarette end.

‘Give Mia six months and I’ll give you a whole day.’

The lit end of the cigarette glowed as he sucked the life from the dying tube. She nodded at him and smiled. The corners of his lips lifted as she stood and turned towards the house.

Making her way inside, Anna glanced into the rooms that she passed. The décor was stuck in the eighties. White walls with peach carpets. Glass cabinets and shiny brass handles.

She could hear the television, but she didn’t follow its sound. Her feet carried her up the stairs and into a bedroom. The walls were black with big white circles on them. A bed in the corner had an Aztec patterned throw over it. Bon Jovi posters littered the ceiling, their yellowing edges curling in on themselves. A collection of paperweights sat on a dressing table, trapped in a time that no longer existed. Anna concentrated her energy as she thrust out her arm, swinging it in an arc. The paperweights leapt into the air and thudded onto the wooden floor.

She heard her coming up the stairs, her light footsteps attacking the carpet. Rushing into the room, the grey-haired woman came to a stop. Her eyes landed on the scattered mess on the floor. She ran her hands over her face and knelt on the wood. There was a carrier bag sitting next to the weights. Looking around the room, the woman let tears roll down her cheeks. Picking up the bag, she slowly lowered each weight into it. When she’d finished packing up the room, the lady lay down on the bed and let the breath escape her lungs. The dust danced in the sunlight that shone in through the window. Anna started to cry as she sat next to the sleeping woman. She smiled and sighed in relief as the lines on the woman’s face relaxed for the first time in twenty years.

‘I’m sorry, Mum, but it’s your deadline and I’ve come to collect you.’

Are you as intrigued as we are? Be sure to enter the rafflecopter contest for a chance to win both books plus nine more, or, if you can’t wait, the links to purchase these books are below:

The Deadliners: Available in the US: http://www.amazon.com/The-Deadliners-Rachel-Medhurst-ebook/dp/B00K5OKIYE/ref=cm_rdp_product

Available in the UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Deadliners-Rachel-Medhurst-ebook/dp/B00K5OKIYE/ref=cm_rdp_product

Raven Falling: Available here: http://www.amazon.com/Raven-Falling-Shadows-Light-Novel-ebook/dp/B00LRHKUGE/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1407326499&sr=1-1&keywords=Raven+Falling

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f6defd8610/

August 16, 2014 0

Smexy, Sweet, Western & Paranormal… My Typical Reading List

I’ve read a few books recently, which I’ve dutifully reviewed on both Goodreads and Amazon, because, hey, I’m a writer, and I understand how important those reviews are. Even as a reader, I understand the importance of reviews. They are more often than not the determining factor in whether I purchase a particular book.

Since I am so aware of the importance of reviews, and I love to support my fellow writers, I decided to blog about those reviews, so that you, too, could read them. And maybe buy one or two (or four).

This is what I read:

1. A delicious, dirty, utterly smexy book with an oh-so-sweet ending.

2. A sweet romance with a surprisingly naughty slant towards the end.

3. A paranormal with fascinating concepts and plenty of intriguing backstory that could be weaved into future books.

4. My first western romance. In fact, it’s been a while since I’ve read anything at all historical.

Yeah, no one can put my reading habits into a perfect little shoebox.

The first was Taint, by @MrsSLJ. I knew nothing at all about this author prior to a few months ago. This read is proof that blog tours work. Oh yeah, and hot covers. And catchy blurbs. “My name is Justice Drake and I’m going to teach you how to f*ck your husbands.” What? That outrageously sexy guy smirking at me from the cover is going to teach me how to get it on with my hubs? Ohh…. how? I mean, my God, I had to read it after that.

I wasn’t disappointed. In fact, I only finished it two weeks ago, and I am already giving serious thought to reading it again. I can only think of two other books that had this affect — The final Harry Potter, and the first in @KatieMacAlister‘s dragon series. (Maybe it’s just guys named Drake who do it for me. While there wasn’t a Drake in HP, there was a Draco. Close, right?)

Let me see, what’s the best way to review this one…? It made me laugh out loud, it made my heart ache, and it made me hot. A book that can provoke all those emotions at once? Bring it. You should read this book if you like spicy, if you like seriously alpha males, if you have a soft spot for assholes… who aren’t really assholes. And if you like innocent, imperfect, yet utterly adorable heroines, this is also the book for you. In case you need another six billion opinions on the matter, here’s the Goodreads link.

The next book was Sweet Dreams, by @jsenhaji13. It’s her debut novel, and it’s definitely sweet. But keep reading, because just about the time you think this is one of those closed doors romances, bam, she hits you with the sex scenes. Juicy, graphic sex scenes. Still, it is a very sweet romance, and while you will be annoyed with the hero and heroine for not figuring it out sooner, you will also be so happy for them when they finally do. Because they are just such sweet people, and really should be together.

Bonus to this book: the author does a wonderful job pulling you into the scenes. We travel with the heroine from a small town in California to the gorgeous countryside in Italy and a few places in between, and I now have such a vivid picture in my head that I am certain I will recognize these places, if I am ever lucky enough to someday visit.

If sweet, gentle romance with a heavy dose of sex (once they finally get around to it!) is your reading taste, try Jennifer Senhaji’s book, Sweet Dreams.

My next read was a paranormal, Raven Falling, by @mistileemurphy. I love a good paranormal read. I love forming pictures in my head of the worlds the author weaves. And many (most?) paranormals seem to have some sort of twist that I usually don’t see coming. This one had several (although I admit, I guessed one of them!). It keeps you turning the pages all the way to the end, because you just know something big is about to happen… And you will not be disappointed. Just be prepared: It’s a bit of a cliffhanger. BUT, I have it on good authority that the author is diligently working away on the second installment in the series.

If you like paranormal, and are intrigued by the concepts of heaven and hell (and don’t mind your preconceived notions getting tossed out the window), I suggest reading Misti Murphy’s Raven Falling.

The final book on my completed reading list is a western romance. @HaleyWhitehall recently released Wild and Tender Care, a historical romance about a half-breed doctor and a forced-to-be-reformed madam, who, despite their differences, manage to fall in love. I love books with flawed characters whose flaws just make them stronger as individuals. This book definitely had that aspect.

If you enjoy sweet romance, if you enjoy reading about an attractive and adorable hero and a strong heroine, you will enjoy this book. If you like historicals or westerns, even better. Wild and Tender Care can be purchased here.

Well, that was my reading list for the past couple of weeks. I’m looking forward to what I’ll unearth over the next few weeks. Tell me, what are you reading now? Maybe that will be MY next read…

Like this post? You’ll probably love my books, which you can check out by clicking the links at the top of the page. And check back next weekend, when I join a blog tour – A Week of Wands, Fangs & Wings. Each day, I’ll have a new post, featuring paranormal reads from eight different authors. And there’ll be a prize: enter to win a copy of every single book featured on the blog that week. Totally worth checking back next week!

Thank you!

August 9, 2014 2

Romance Author Elle Rush Tells Us About Writing Hollywood Style

For today’s blog, I’ve invited romance author Elle Rush to join us and talk about writing, Hollywood, and characters that just won’t leave her alone. She just released a new book on July 28. There’s an excerpt below and the links to buy it at the end of the blog. And in between, Elle tells you how you can stalk her on social media.

Hello Elle Rush! Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m a romance author from Winnipeg, Manitoba. When I’m not writing, I’m reading, watching sci-fi TV shows or investigating new places to visit.

In which genre do you write?

I write contemporary romance with a heavy dash of humour.

Is there anything specific that inspires you? How did you come up with the idea behind your most recent book?

I love television and movie making. I have no acting talent, but I’m enthralled with everything that goes on behind the scenes. Yes, I’m the person that watches all the DVD extras. If I’d known how to get into screenwriting after high school, I would have done that. Since I didn’t, I figured the next best thing was to write about it. I’ve made everything as authentic as possible. I’ve drawn on my experiences on set from when I was an extra (background performer) and from my tours of film lots in Los Angeles.

How many books have you published?

I currently have 5 romances out in e-book form, with two more stories coming out this year. That number might go up depending on how the response is to DRAMA QUEEN because I’m already well into book 3 in my Hollywood to Olympus series.

Tell us about your latest release.

My latest release is DRAMA QUEEN, book 2 of the Hollywood to Olympus series. It’s a contemporary romance.

Layla Andrews isn’t really a bitch – she just plays one on television. For the last eighteen months, she’s acted like one in real life too while she was forced to serve probation for something she didn’t do. Now the Queen of Olympus has done her time and she’s ready to start living again … but she’s forgotten how.

Russ Vukovick, the show’s fight coordinator, had been attracted to Layla since the first time he saw her. Recently he’s caught glimpses of a new side of her – one that makes her irresistible. But as he gets closer to her, he also sees more of what she hides beneath the mask she wears.

As Layla and Russ try to navigate their new relationship, families, danger and secrets work against them at every turn. Can they find a true happily-ever-after when they are surrounded by lies?

Romance readers always like to know: how steamy is it?

It’s a 1 on the steamy scale. I tried to write it hotter but Layla and Russ kept closing the door whenever they headed to the bedroom. They like their privacy. At least they got farther than Chris and Sydney (the couple from SCREEN IDOL) – they only got to kiss.

Is this part of a series? Tell us about the series (no spoilers!).

It’s part of my Hollywood to Olympus series. When I originally thought of the cast of the television show “Olympus”, I knew exactly what was going to happen to all of them. I knew there were four stories I wanted to tell. Unfortunately, my original characters introduced me to their friends and things are getting a little out of hand in Hollywood. I have a short story in the literacy-fundraiser LOVE IS anthology which was released today starring Benny, the show’s photographer who appears in both SCREEN IDOL and DRAMA QUEEN. I’m already halfway Nick and Ashleigh’s story, and I have outlined a fourth book. But there may be one more story after that because another character won’t leave me alone.

When was DRAMA QUEEN released?

It came out on July 28^th from Liquid Silver Books.

Do you have a favorite excerpt you want to share here?

“So, if you’ve forgiven me, I thought you might kiss me again.” He looked up at her, not far up because even standing when he was sitting there wasn’t much of a difference, and let loose a slow, sexy smile that made her feel like she was bursting into flames all over.

“What?” she squeaked.

Russ patted the cushion beside him. “It wasn’t really fair, you know. A sneak attack like that. I wasn’t ready to respond. I can do a hell of a lot better. I’m sorry, Layla. Can we try to redo the ending to last Friday? I didn’t even get a good night kiss.” When she didn’t move, he did. He stood up and hovered over her. “I’d really like a good night kiss, Layla.”

He leaned over in slow motion and Layla watched as his lips got closer. The second they touched hers, though, she closed her eyes and lost herself in the kiss. Russ knew what he was doing. God, did he know.

I love it! The tension between Russ and Layla is so palpable in this excerpt. Now, let your newest fans know how to stalk you — a website? Social media?

I have a free newsletter you can sign up for at www.ellerush.com/newsletter . I also have a blog on my website www.ellerush.com and I’m on Goodreads as Elle Rush and on Twitter at @elle_rush

Lastly, ask my blog readers a question, which they can answer in the comments below.

If you could have a behind-the-scenes tour of any TV show, which one would you pick?

Thank you for joining us today! Now, for the important question: How can we read your books?

Hollywood to Olympus series:

SCREEN IDOL (book 1): Amazon, Kobo, iTunes, Liquid Silver Books

DRAMA QUEEN (book 2): Amazon, Kobo, iTunes, Liquid Silver Books

THE HOLLYWOOD GAMBIT (book 2.5): Coming August 5, 2014!

PUERTO VALLARTA SUNSETS: Amazon

PRIVATE ENCORE: Amazon, Kobo, iTunes, Liquid Silver Books

BEAR WITH ME (Beneath a Spring Moon): Amazon, Kobo, iTunes, Liquid Silver Books

And coming soon… CUBAN MOON! Check out the super cool cover below:

Elle, thank you so much for joining us today on Tami’s Thoughts. I’m sure I echo our readers’ thoughts when I say we all look forward to reading DRAMA QUEEN as well as the rest of your books. Keep writing!

Readers: If you enjoyed this post, let me know in the comments below, or by spreading the word via social media. And check back next weekend. There’s a new post at least once a week!

August 1, 2014 2

Haley Whitehall Takes Us Back to the Old West for Some Dr. Love

Today, I’ve invited Haley Whitehall to join me here on Tami’s Thoughts. She’s going to tell us a little about herself and her books. Haley was also kind enough to let me read her latest release, Wild and Tender Care, which, beside having a super steamy, hot cover, was a great read. First, we’re going to get into the author interview. Then my review of Wild and Tender Care. And then the important stuff: how to buy Haley’s books.

Shall we?

****

Hi Haley. Thanks for joining us here on my blog today. Tell us a little about yourself.

Let’s see… I have a history degree and have wanted to be an author since I was four years old. I paired my two passions by writing historical stories. I am a cat person and can see myself turning into the crazy cat lady. I am addicted to coffee and enjoy going on hikes.

If it’s any consolation, I feel like most authors are animal lovers, so you’re in good company. Tell us about the genre in which you write.

I write historical fiction and historical romance. Most of my stories are set around the Civil War era. I love the 19^th century.

Is there anything specific that inspires you? How did you come up with the idea behind your most recent book?

I read a lot of history books, diaries, and journals. Most of my stories are partly inspired by some snippet of history. Wild and Tender Care was inspired by Silverheels, a dance hall girl in 1861 in the mining town of Buckskin Joe, Colorado.

Since I’ve already read this book, I can tell you that learning this tidbit of information is fascinating! I love it when authors who write historical weave reality in their stories. Tell us, how many books have you published?

Counting my short stories and children’s books I have published 14. I have several partially finished stories sitting on my hard drive waiting for me to get back to them.

That’s good news. It means you have plenty of potential to get your readers even more books. Tell us about the latest one.

Wild and Tender Care is my first historical western romance. I loved watching western movies growing up and have always wanted to write one. This isn’t your typical western story though. The hero is a half-breed doctor and the heroine is an ex-madam turned laundress. They have both been outcasts all their lives. Despite their differences, I think it is their understanding of the pain in each other’s past that makes them perfect for each other. Ida is hesitant because she knows first-hand the town’s cruelty. Can they find that their rightful place is in each other’s arms?

So romance readers of nearly every genre love to know…How steamy is it?

Wild and Tender Care is a hot historical romance so I’d give it a heat rating of 3. While it has the same heat rating as all my romances writing this one made me blush. I think it was the fact that Ida was an ex-madam and was very experienced in the bedroom.

I love that it made you blush while writing it! This is a PG-13 excerpt, but there is plenty of tension in this teaser:

He glanced up at the sun. “Colorado Territory does have pretty skies, don’t you think?”

What was this, a feeble attempt at small talk? She didn’t have the strength to keep up the charade any longer. It was much easier to be friendly. “A blue sky is a blue sky.”

He shook his head. “But this sky has horses and castles and giant flowers.”

She peered up at the clouds dotting the stretch of endless blue. Looking for shapes in the clouds had been a fun game when she was little. She pointed to a large cloud. “That one looks like a boat.”

Dr. Steere sidled up to her and followed her finger to where she was pointing. “Yes, it does.”

His masculine musk filled the air, surrounding her. A deep-seated ache migrated through her body and settled between her thighs. It had been a long time since she’d been with a man. Even though whoring had been her business, she’d learned to derive pleasure from her clients. A pleasure she’d been long denied. Dr. Steere was not like any of the usual men who had called upon her nightly services. His presence alone aroused her. She didn’t even need his touch to remind her body what to do.

Her long-suppressed need for male companionship rose to the surface. Watching him out of the corner of her eye, she noticed the corners of his lips twitching. Had he caught her looking at him?

If this was a game for him, she’d be happy to lose. Her heart raced, beating with eagerness to be with him. It would be more than sex with him. They had a deeper connection. He wanted to court her, make her his wife, and she longed for him to drop on one knee and ask her.

She could enjoy his strong, steady presence all day especially if it led to the bedroom. Damn, this was a precarious situation. He wanted her and her body wanted to be with him, but she knew the people of Big Rock better than he did. Was she ready for the storm that would follow?

While she was in charge of her own life, not the good Christians passing judgment on her, she did have to live within their community. Would it be more or less painful to live as Mrs. Steere?

Is this your favorite of all the books you’ve written?

I like this story, but it is not my favorite. My favorite historical romance is actually the first I’ve written Midnight Caller. It made me fall in love with the genre and also showed me how much fun interracial romance can be when it is set in the 19^th century. I like the added tension that comes with the taboo factor.

Do you have a favorite excerpt of Wild and Tender Care that you want to share here?

It is hard to choose a favorite. Dr. Steere is an alpha male and had to get the fiery redheaded Ida to see that they could have a happy future together. This excerpt always makes me smile.

He sucked in his lips. She hadn’t said she didn’t have feelings for him. That was a good sign. By the way she looked at him he could tell she was interested. He just had to persuade her somehow that they could be together in Big Rock.

“I see, Miss Page. Well, I will be by tomorrow to check on you.”

“Check on me? Now listen here, Dr. Steere, I didn’t get shot. I didn’t even break a bone. There is no reason for you to check on my sprained ankle.”

Fire burned in her eyes. He didn’t respond, merely headed for the door.

She liked him, wanted him. Usually it was the boy who showed he loved the girl by antagonizing her. Miss Page was flustered because she loved him. He’d bet all his money on it. Of course, he longed for her to say those words. Hopefully in time she could.

Stuck in the chair with her foot emerged in the bucket of water Miss Page couldn’t run after and chastise him. However, her glare scorched his back. “Did you hear me, Dr. Steere?”

He turned around and grinned. “Yes, I heard you, Miss Page. I’m just doing my job. All my life I’ve had to work extra hard for the things I’ve wanted.” And I want you.

His piercing lust elicited a tiny shiver from Miss Page. His gaze having the effect he wanted gave him silent encouragement. Oh yes, she wanted him. “It was hard getting into medical school as a half-breed. I wouldn’t take no for an answer.”

I remember that part of the book, and I loved it too! Thanks for sharing! Now, let’s get to the stalking part. Website, social media, that sort of stuff. If fans want to know, how do they?

I guess I don’t mind a few stalkers, lol. Yes, I do have a website. Here are my social media links:

Website: http://haleywhitehall.com

Twitter: http://twitter.com/HaleyWhitehall

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

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5752677.Haley_Whitehall

Blog: http://haleywhitehall.com/blog/

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Haley-Whitehall/e/B0078EO6CE/

Newsletter: https://tinyletter.com/HaleyWhitehall

Now, before we get into my review of Wild and Tender Care, ask my blog readers a question, which they can answer in the comments below.

If you had a time machine which time period would you visit and why?

Oh, I like it! Thank you, Haley, for joining us today. Before I show our readers how to purchase your books, I want to give them my review of Wild and Tender Care. Read on, dear readers…..

I think it’s important to note that westerns are not a genre I read often. I don’t really have a reason for this, and to be honest, now that I’ve read Wild and Tender Care, I suspect I will seek out western romance on a more frequent basis. I love the picture of the time period that Haley painted behind the characters.

One reason I was excited about reading one of Haley’s books is because (as she noted in her interview), she’s written a lot, so I figured if I liked it, I’d have plenty more from which to choose. You see, I am one of those readers who tends to fall in love with a particular author and read everything else they’ve written.

I’ll definitely read more from Haley Whitehall.

Wild and Tender Care is a novella, so it’s a quick read. Perfect for lounging at the beach or curled up on the couch on a rainy day. Most readers, I suspect, will be able to devour it in one day.

I wasn’t disappointed in this book. It was a fun read. Dr. Steere is not at all the strong, angry heroes we see in so many of today’s books. He is a sweet, gentle man who is determined to be a successful doctor and find himself a wife, despite the bigotry he feels in the new town he calls home. He is exactly the sort of man I would love for my daughter to marry.

The heroine, Ida Page, made me proud every time I read from her point of view. She is strong and also determined to make her way in the world, despite her very real insecurities as a result of her past. One thing I liked in particular about this book was that the author did not drag out the hero and heroine’s insecurities to the point where I was annoyed with them. This so often happens in books, unfortunately, and it was refreshing when each one overcame those insecurities long before I reached the point of annoyance. Kudos to Haley for that!

Even if western romance is not your typical genre, I would recommend this book if you enjoy sweet romance, if you enjoy a strong heroine and a warm, loving hero (who happens to be exceedingly good looking to boot). I think you’d thoroughly enjoy it.

Oh yes, and I forgot to mention: FOUR STARS!

Now, finally, here’s how YOU can purchase this (or any other book from Haley Whitehall) book:

Wild and Tender Care

Liquid Silver Books

Amazon US | Amazon UK

Barnes and Noble

ARe

Buy links for Midnight Caller

Liquid Silver Books

Amazon US | Amazon UK

Barnes and Noble

ARe

Buy links for Soldier in Her Lap
Decadent Publishing
Amazon | Amazon UK
Barnes and Noble
ARe

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog today! Come back soon. There’s a new post every Monday, and occasionally on days in between.

July 25, 2014 2

Blog Tour Stop – The Discord Trilogy

I am honored to be a stop on this blog tour. These books are raw, gritty and exciting. It is worth your time to check out the descriptions and then the excerpt below. When you realize you want more, click on the buy links at the bottom. You won’t be disappointed.

THE DISCORD TRILOGY

The Golden Apple of Discord – Book 1

***Winner of the Compulsion Reads Quality Book Endorsement***

Taralie Severin and her three sisters are a powerful coven of modern-day witches who banish mythical creatures in between classes and shifts at the police station. But when Taralie is kidnapped by vampires and converted into the undead, her sisters are ordered to execute her for crimes against the Milunfran order. Refusing, the sisters become fugitives from both their kind and vampires alike.

Ignorant and hunted, Taralie becomes entangled with unlikely allies, a band of vampires in hiding from the ruling vamperic government. With this new addition to their coven Taralie must balance duty with desire while learning not everything is as it seems, their enemies are worse than she knows, and she could be on the verge of ending a thousand-year-old civil war.

Abomination – Book 2

Taralie Severin and her sisters have secured a non-aggression pact with the rulers of the vampire world, the Noricum. Having relocated to Cannon Beach, Oregon, Alexander prepares to marry his beloved Tara. But when an encounter with average vampires goes wrong, the Severin coven’s fragile amnesty with the Noricum is destroyed. With the supremacy of their rule challenged, the Noricum set out to restore the balance of power, leaving the Severin family two choices – die on their feet, or live on their knees.

Rubicon – Book 3

Hidden away on a Caribbean island, Tara’s body survived abomination while her mind did not. Strangled from within by Verus’s accumulated memories, the eldest Severin sister struggles under the weight of so many conciseness inside her mind. But the Noricum are not idle, nor are they forgiving. Enraged by Tara’s murdering of their princess, they hunt the Severins relentlessly. After turning a powerful halfling and declaring open war, the Severin coven must choose between defending the Milunfran witches protecting humanity or their own extinction.

The below excerpt is one of the author’s favorites:

“What the-” Cora says. Melise is muddy, crying, and down a couple of digits.

“Watch this!” Tara kicks Melise’s legs out from under her and forces her face into the mud. In vivid color, Tara forces the scene of Blake’s death into her mind. Draco and Lucius appear in his living room with Blake sitting in a recliner, grading math papers on the coffee table. He pulls a lighter out of his pocket but doesn’t get it open before Lucius throws him up against a wall.

First he uses Blake as a battering ram to destroy Tara’s childhood home. Then Lucius feeds on him.

“It was just one human!” Melise screams.

Tara punches the back of her head several times. “I’m the human’s daughter.” She pins Melise’s wrist under her boot and snaps off another finger.

Cora raises her arm, planning on separating the huntress and her prey but Thomas pulls her back by her jacket.

“I want to see what Tara has been concealing from all of us,” he says.

In between punches Melise says, “Please. He’ll give you anything!”

Tara stills her hand and smiles. “Will he now? Let’s go find out.” Placing her hand on Melise’s throat our prisoner goes slack, followed by Tara collapsing on top of her.

All eyes remain on the pile of bodies. The thoughts of everyone, even Aggie, are stunned beyond understanding.

“What was that,” Ruben says.

“Stekie,” Aggie whispers.

“Why are we letting this continue?” Cora asks.

Thomas says, “It’s gotta come out some time.”

We don’t have time for this right now.

“Ann, come with me to the throne room,” I command and offer my hand.

Ann stands beside me in the corner of the great hall. It’s just as we left it but quieter. Only a dozen servants remain. The others have possibly gone to deal with arriving emergency vehicles. The throne room is tucked away under the courtyard in the middle of the castle insulated from the noise outside. The occupants of the throne room are somber. Sabine has returned bearing a gift no one wants. She hands Lucius the finger Tara broke off. He’s cradling it like delicate glass.

“Lucius?” Melise calls out, across the room from the four thrones. His head snaps up. Tara stands next to her.

The vampires part to the sides of the rectangular room leaving Verus, Draco, Sabine, and Priam standing behind Lucius. Tara and Melise move toward them. Ann and I stay hidden in the corner behind some retreating servants.

“He told you killing the father was foolish,” Tara says.

Lucius is incensed. “Return her!”

“Arrogance. That just cost her another finger.” They both disappear.

“Where is she?!” Lucius roars at Draco.

I reply from the corner, “You have no idea what you’ve unleashed.”

My former spy master along with everyone else in the ancient hall snaps their gaze towards me.

“Alexander?” Draco asks, “How did you find her?”

“It doesn’t matter. What matters is we were content to leave you alone.”

Tara returns with Melise. She’s missing another finger. She can’t feel the pain of her body in this state so Tara’s way of torturing Lucius is giving her a reprieve.

“Please,” Melise says to Draco.

“I cannot save you,” he says.

“Lucius?” her voice quivers.

“What do you want, Taralie?”

Tara moves to him very slowly. Her voice is pleasant. “Ask.”

He looks around to the dozen vampires watching with baited breath. His desperation thinly veiled. “Return her.”

She leers in a little closer. “Say please.”

His shoulders sag. “Please, return her.”

“Tell me why? Tell me what she means to you.”

He looks at Melise. “I love her.”

“Kneel.” Tara growls in a low voice. He sinks to his knees, bowing his head to his wife’s torturer. “Beg.”

“Please do not kill her, I will give you anything.”

“There is one thing that will spare her, such as she is.”

“Anything.”

If she was really here, her breath would be on his face.

“My father’s life.”

“Noooooo!” He falls forward with a pained cry. Priam comes to his side.

“You sent her to me, the lion at the door. She will die as my father did and you will wish for death before I am done with you.”

Tara announces to the entire room, “It begins with her.”

“Please, Priam, do something!” Lucius begs from the floor.

Tara disappears. The sudden change in scenery and rain on my face tells me Ann has broken the stekie and while the laments of the soon-to-be widower are no longer available to me, the soundtrack here is no better. My wife is once again beating Melise and snapping off fingers.

“We have to stop this.” Ruben whispers as he helps me from the ground. I agree but now that Cora is here for Tara to mimic, are we even capable of it?

“Thomas, sedate her. We have to stop this now.”

“Alex, we should have stopped this weeks ago.”

After a few more punches Tara tears the head off of our doomed prisoner. Tara smiles then takes the gas can Aggie fetched from inside the cabin while I was in Bolugone. She douses her new kill, then takes the box of matches Aggie offers. She strikes a match. Melise erupts into flame.

With the flames and smoke of a Noricum princess rising behind her, Tara takes Melise’s ring out of her pocket, tosses it to Cora, and wipes her muddy hands on her pants. “Next.”

PURCHASE THE BOOKS

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lauren’s Website / Twitter / Facebook / Pinterest / Instagram

I’m Lauren Hodge, a chemist turned author with three children, a lot of friends no one else can see, and a swearing habit. Writing is something I stumbled into on accident. I was reading fiction for the first time as an adult and wondered if I could do it. It never crossed my mind to publish until my twin got a hold of my manuscripts and pressured me into it like the cool drug seeking kid from the After School Specials.

Because of that, my books are different. I don’t write because I have a story to tell. I write because there is a story inside my head and it’s merely using my fingers to get out. I enjoy writing protagonists that are flawed and enemies that aren’t. Not everyone is all good or all bad and I love the philosophical process of defining that grey area.

There are two parts of communication. What is articulated and what is received for only the latter can compel action. You, the reader, are more important than me, the author. I relish understanding what you receive from my articulation. To help with that, I have editors – lots and lots of editors. Editors are the heroes authors need, but not the heroes they deserve. As an author, I strive every day to be worthy of professional editors.

I’m the oldest of seven and have an identical twin/perfect organ donor.

July 9, 2014 0

Guest Author – TD Hassett Debuts the Third Book in a HOT Rock and Roll Series

Today’s guest is rock-n-roll romance author, TD Hassett. If you haven’t done so yet, take a look at the books she has up on Goodreads. Who doesn’t love a sexy, sweet romance about rock-n-roll gods? I know I do!

Today, TD tells us about her latest release, Darling’s Desire, and she gives us a few teasers from the book, including a seriously steamy scene between Darling and rock star, Ross Daniels. Oh, and don’t forget to leave the answer to her question in the comments below!

TT: Hi there! And your name is…?

TD Hassett and yes, the T is for Tiffany.

TT: Give us a little insight into the person behind the books.

I am sure this won’t surprise anyone but I love to read and will happily devour 2-4 books a week. My Kindle requires charging quite often!

I love to cook but am not very good at it. I keep on trying though – one of these days I might serve up something that the dog will eat. You know you have kitchen issues when a golden retriever turns down your homemade pancakes. I have two children who think I am fabulous on some days and evil on others. Both threatened to run away to New York City before the age of five. I like to think having a creative mom will give them something to talk about in therapy down the road. I just celebrated thirteen years of marriage last May and am pretty certain that the majority of wedding guests on both sides of the aisle are shocked that we lasted. Some days, so am I.

TT: In which genre do you write?

Contemporary Romance (with erotic and suspenseful elements).

TT: How many books have you published?

I have three books published and hope to get two more out by the end of the year.

TT: Tell us about the latest release.

My most recent release Darling’s Desire is my favorite because it has lots of suspense and lots of passion.

Here is the blurb:

Darling Roberts is going back to the lake house her mother disappeared from thirteen years ago. She needs to decide to stay or sell. The locals believe the place cursed, but her best friend thinks it would be a blast to spend the weekend there before heading to Europe. BFF Madison is determined to set Darling up, even if that means dragging a recently widowed rock-and-roll drummer to the scene of a murder.

Ross Daniels has a secret. He can’t stand the pitying looks well-wishers have given him since his wife’s accidental death. The European leg of the Becket tour can’t come soon enough. A weekend stay at a mutual friend’s lake house seems like a decent way to kill a couple of days before hopping a plane, at least until he spends some time with temptation herself.

Passions ignite and Ross feels his heart beginning to beat again. Darling isn’t who he thought she was, and he can’t get enough of her sweet soul and lush curves. Darling is determined to take charge of her life, and the lake house is just the place to begin. Ross is a scrumptious distraction, but she knows she has to keep things in perspective. Why would a world-famous drummer want to hang out with her in a small town even the locals want her run out of?

TT: How steamy is it?

I give my most recent release a score of 3 on the steam meter and posted a paragraph for flavor below.

In a quick and incredibly coordinated move, he had her panties off, and she was lying on her back on the wonderfully oversized couch. He was over her, like a predator waiting to make a meal out of her; she shivered in anticipation. He bent his head to leave a trail of kisses down her throat, across her collarbone, landing on her nipple. He licked and sucked one while sliding his thumb gently over the other. It was a special sort of torture that sent even more moisture pooling between her thighs. Her body clenched her inner muscles in anticipation. He pulled and twisted her throbbing nipple, looking into her eyes and balancing his weight on an elbow. She mewled in frustration. She wanted just a little bit more. She stroked her hands up and down his back, dipping her greedy hands into the waist of his jeans and giving a gentle tug.

“Are you in a hurry, baby?”

The endearment sounded so sexy coming from his lips. She whimpered a bit and rubbed herself against him.

TT: Yum! Is this part of a series? If so, tell us about the series (no spoilers!).

This book is the third in my Love and Music series but they can be read in any order. The series follows members of the rock band Becket as they transition from tour schedules to studio time. Each of these sexy alpha men wind up falling in love and lust when they least expect it.

TT: I love it! I bet I’m not the only one out there with fantasies of taming a rock star. So tell us, do you have a favorite excerpt you want to share here?

Darling’s Desire – When the hero and heroine first meet

Excerpt:

The champagne was flowing, and Darling was feeling a happy buzz hit her. At least until she noticed the two men approaching from down the street. She recognized Madison’s husband, Link, and the drummer from Becket in an instant. Link would be easy to chat with, but John Ross was another story. It was just so sad; his wife had died in a boating accident and he was in deep mourning. She never knew what to say to people who’d experienced such a loss. After all, she’d lost her mom when she was only nine years old, and nobody had ever said anything that helped her.

Madison continued talking about her son as Darling watched the men get nearer. Link put his finger to his lips, indicating that she should not say anything about his impending arrival. She almost nodded in response but stopped the action at the expression on his bandmate’s face. John Ross looked irritated. As if he was scowling at the whole world. His stride was stiff, and he appeared as if he hadn’t shaved in days. His longish light brown hair was stuffed under a cowboy hat, and he wore faded jeans and a black T-shirt, even in this heat. Even dressed sloppily he was taking-her-breath-away gorgeous. She was just noting his black boot tips when the men stopped behind Madison’s chair.

Link bent to place a kiss on Madison’s lips and brushed his fingers against her cheek. She jumped in her seat and flushed red in the face before swatting at his hand. Link laughed gently at his wife before coming around to Darling’s side of the table and chastely kissing her cheek. “You two ladies look up to no good. What have you been plotting?” Link asked, walking over to stand behind one of the empty chairs.

“I’m always on good behavior. It’s your wife you have to watch out for. She gets these ideas in her head.” She glanced over to see Madison welcoming Link’s friend, whom she wasn’t sure if she’d ever been introduced to before. Link and Madison had so many friends it was hard to keep track. She knew John Ross from pictures and videos but didn’t think they’d ever really met. Most of the time she and Madison did stuff, just the two of them, but she’d met some of Link’s friends and bandmates at the wedding and a smaller group at their son’s first birthday party.

“That wife of mine does have a wicked mind.” Link leaned over and tapped his friend. “Hey, Junior, meet one of Madison’s closest and oldest friends, Darling Roberts. Darling, meet Junior.” Link pulled out his chair and sat gracefully. His friend looked her up and down as if he was studying her. She wished he’d just ignore her altogether. Good-looking men made her nervous.

He pulled his chair out and sat watching her for a moment before finally saying, “Hey there, Darlin’, I’m John Ross. Ross to friends,” in a deep drawl.

She nodded her head feeling inordinately shy. She wasn’t sure, but from what few words the man spoke, he seemed to be straight out of the south. He took his hat off, exposing dirty-blond hair that was a bit too long. He was tan, so the outdoors was no stranger to him, and his eyes might’ve been blue or a very deep green; she didn’t want to get caught looking long enough to figure it out.

“Don’t mind him, Darling. He scowls at everyone but is a total pussycat.” Madison pointed at John Ross before adding, “Be nice, this is my BFF.”

“Yes, ma’am,” he answered and let out a mock purr that sent Link to laughing and slapping his hand on the small table, rattling the glassware. Darling began to count the wrought-iron rungs of the courtyard fence, feeling a bit out of her element now that the party had expanded.

“So, Darling is going to be staying at her late grandmother’s house for the summer and watching Beauty Belle for us there. It’s a big house built right on the water and surrounded by, like, acres of marsh and forest. Darling hasn’t been back to the house since she was a kid, so I got to thinking”—Madison paused, smiling brightly before continuing—“we have to practically drive past the lake on our way to Boston, and I thought it might be fun to go with her and check out the place. We could spend a couple of nights, soak up some sun, and be off to London. I could help Darling and Beauty Belle settle in while you take Will to the beach and all. What do you think? Link?”

“I don’t know, baby. I told Junior Ass here that he could ride up with us to Boston.”

“Oh, that’s fine. He can stay with us too. It’s a big house.” Madison looked at each of the men in turn, waiting for a response. Darling kept her mouth shut, amazed by Madison’s audacity.

Link found his voice first. “Sure, honey, if you want to we could stop by for a couple of nights.” He motioned the waiter over and ordered a couple of beers.

Darling waited with bated breath to see how her friend would proceed. She really should spend more time watching Madison to learn from the master. How did she just get him to agree without raising any suspicions? She was going to tell them the whole deal, right?

“I knew you’d think this was a good idea. You see, Darling inherited the house when her grandmother passed, over a year and a half ago or something like that, and has been meaning to check it out. She’s just a little nervous after so many years away from the family homestead, and well, that little incident that happened a week or so back was a nuisance. But I saw some pictures, and the house is really pretty and right in a quaint New England town.” Madison sipped her drink and picked at the salmon in front of her.

Darling had to hand it to her; she did have a way of avoiding the pesky details and focusing on the positive of any situation. The waiter arrived with beers for the guys and whisked away an empty appetizer plate.

“What do you mean by a little incident?” John Ross asked in a deceptively soft voice.

Darling attempted to answer. “A late tropical storm struck late last fall, flooding the dock, and there was a blizzard over the winter that caused some additional damage to the dock and one of the house’s decks. The house is still usable, and I contacted a company to begin repairs, but—”

Madison cut her off midsentence. “But the house is fine, and it would be an adventure.” She smiled at the seated men and pushed a plate of fruit and cheese toward them.

Ross picked up a few grapes, popped them in his mouth, and waited.

“Is anyone else wondering about this incident that has yet to have its curtains pulled open?” Obviously John Ross was a man of few words; he got right to the point. It was clear he was not one to fall for Madison’s ploys. How unusual.

“Well, there is a little more to it.” Darling attempted once again to explain, only to have Madison interrupt.

“Oh, stop. Just pour me another glass of champagne.” Madison tilted her glass to Link, who obliged, deftly pulling the bottle from the ice bucket. “Darling, you always focus on those little pesky details. It really is a lovely house, and we could use some time sitting on a beach.” She winked.

John Ross looked at her, an eyebrow raised in question. She took her time looking into his eyes; they were green and intense. She was beginning to squirm under his scrutiny. His looks could melt frozen chocolate.

He dropped his square jaw, keeping his eyes level with hers. “I’m thinking whatever you girls are leaving out is more than a few pesky details, so why don’t you, Darling, or whatever your name really is, fill us in on the meat and potatoes of the deal.” He swigged from his beer without breaking eye contact with her. Perhaps he had experience interrogating prisoners or something, because even Madison didn’t try to stop her from speaking this time. She knew she couldn’t follow the lead her friend had set. She needed them to know the whole story.

“I haven’t been to my grandmother’s lake house since the day my mom disappeared thirteen years ago. She was grabbed from the house, her car found abandoned in town, and eventually presumed dead. After that my father and I never went back there and instead summered on Cape Cod. Too many memories, I guess.” The story poured out of her in a just-the-facts manner. She’d had to explain the events to so many people over the years she’d become detached from the details. “My grandmother stayed, living in the house until she passed away. The house has been empty since, as I wasn’t sure what to do about the property. Then, I got a call from my aunt who lives in town and owns a real estate agency advising that I should just put it on the market. I was all set to do that, but with one of the deck pillars dropped and the end of the dock submerged in the lake, I needed some repairs. I wound up calling a local restoration company, and they sent a contractor to assess and repair the damage.”

Madison was opening her mouth to interrupt, but John Ross held his hand up and Link smirked, probably amused that someone could get his wife to hold her tongue.

Darling sipped her drink and went on. “Well, the handyman must’ve had an accident or something because his body was found up at the top of the driveway with a flathead screwdriver in his rib cage—it punctured the poor man’s lung. It was hard for the police to tell much because apparently some coyotes or bobcats got to the body, tore it up, and dragged it toward the street. He was found a few days later by a jogger.” She shrugged her shoulders and waited for her friend’s reactions.

Link just stared at her, perhaps trying to take in what he’d just heard. John Ross was less circumspect. “Holy fuck.”

Madison was done keeping quiet. “Oh please, Darling, you make it all sound more dramatic than it is. The repairman probably just fell down while holding some hand tools, and everyone knows that scavengers will mess with anything they can get.”

John Ross fixed his gaze right on her. “So you’re saying you and Madison want us to go spend a couple of nights at an isolated lake house, surrounded by dangerous animals, and where there may have already been at least two murders? Am I getting it all? Because I thought I was in a band, not guest-starring in a damn Scooby Doo episode. I’m not too gung ho about hopping in the mystery machine and looking to unmask old man Withers.” He slapped his beer onto the table. “Damn, little girl, you must be out of your tree. You ladies should go spend the weekend at the spa or something while the house gets cleaned out and sold for whatever some crackpot will pay. Place is probably haunted to boot.” He punctuated his comments by tipping the beer bottle toward her in emphasis.

John Ross’ comments set her teeth on edge. There had been a streak of bad luck at the house recently, but it wasn’t cursed. She might not have gone there for years, but it used to be a special place where her family spent every summer until her mom vanished. She’d loved to swim in the lake and take out the sailboat with her dad. She was ready to face the memories again and certainly didn’t need some rock-and-roll drummer giving her attitude about what she should be doing with her inheritance. She picked up her champagne flute and tipped it in a toast toward John Ross and asked, “So basically you’re scared, is that it?”

“I’m not scared of ghosts, if that’s what you mean. I just don’t want to go settle in there only to have you girls get all spooked in the middle of the night and start carrying on the way women do once the sun goes down. Not that it would be my problem ’cause I’ll be at the Four Seasons in Boston by tomorrow night.” He winked at her before shaking his near-empty beer at Link.

“Sounds good to me; they have a lobby with a grand piano at the Four,” Link kicked in.

“You know what, Darling, I think both these boys are a little rattled about your house. Maybe I should just come with you for the weekend and meet up with them in Boston on Sunday night?” Madison offered with a knowing smile.

Link signaled the waiter to bring two more beers to the table. “Now hold on, honey. I’m not letting you out of my sight for a whole weekend. Junior can find something to do if he’s spooked, but I’m in.”

“Who said I was spooked or rattled? I’m just thinking about you girls. I’m fine with hanging with the group. Besides you guys are driving me up to Boston. I don’t want to leave my baby at airport parking for two months. She’s getting garaged and wiped down with a diaper every day until I get back.” The waiter dropped the beers off for the guys, and John Ross took a healthy sip.

“So it’s all settled, then.” Madison smiled wide. “See, Darling, I told you I had good ideas. We’ll drive up in the Rover on Friday night and meet you. This is going to be so much fun!” Madison clapped her hands together with glee.

“Just one question before we all pack our bags for this little adventure. How exactly did your grandma pass?” John Ross asked, and all eyes at the table pivoted to look her way.

“She fell off the third-floor balcony.”

TT: Wait – that’s it? You’re leaving us hanging? Luckily, there’s a link to purchase the book below. But before you go….TD, how can fans stalk you?

I would love to talk to new fans via social media. They can reach me on twitter at tdhassettauthor.twitter or at my facebook fan page

TT: And a little more about the author herself…

T.D. Hassett grew up reading the romance greats—Jackie Collins, Julie Garwood, and Judith McNaught. She was certain that life should be like a romance novel, with lots of passion, some incredible adventures, and a guaranteed happily ever after. She attended college in New England, earning a B.A. in History and an M.S. in Clinical Psychology before changing her mind again and studying education. Currently Ms. Hassett lives in Connecticut with her very patient husband and two young children. Her rambunctious family shares their home with three crazy cats and a darling golden retriever named Delilah. Her eccentric relatives and their quest to make her feel like the only normal nut in the family tree inspire her writing.

Visit her at http://tdhassett.wordpress.com — She loves to hear from readers!

TT: Thanks for being our guest, today, TD. Now it’s your turn. What one question do want to ask our readers? Readers – leave your reply in the comments below!

How many books do all of you read in a month and are they all in the same genre?

TT: Excellent question. I can’t wait to read the answers! Finally, the most important question of them all: How can we read your books??

LSBooks: http://www.lsbooks.com/darling-s-desire-p916.php

Amazon: Darling’s Desire (Love and Music Book 3) – Kindle edition by T.D. Hasssett. Romance Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.


			Darling’s Desire (Love and Music Book 3) – Kindle editio… Darling’s Desire (Love and Music Book 3) – Kindle edition by T.D. Hasssett. Romance Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.
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Thank you for taking the time to read this blog. If you purchase the author’s books, please consider leaving a review when you are done. Most important … Enjoy the read!

July 6, 2014 2

WOLFLING SAGA – Second Book Release!

It is my privilege to show off Kate Bloomfield’s new series, the Wolfling Saga. Alpha Girl is the first book in the saga, and Lone Girl, which just released on June 30, is the second. This is a raw, gritty series that is not intended for audiences younger than 15 years of age. If you are easily offended, you should probably pass on this series. If you like intense stories that push your own personal limits, then pick up your copies today!

Book title: Lone Girl (Wolfling, #2)

Series: The Wolfling Saga

Books in this series: 2

Prequel: ‘Alpha Girl’

Author: Kate Bloomfield

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Release Date: June 30^th 2014

Best-selling and independent Australian author, Kate Bloomfield, has successfully made a name for herself in the world of self-publishing at just twenty-five years old. Her newest series ‘The Wolfling Saga’, tells the story of a controversial Paranormal Romance between a student and teacher. A book not for those easily offended.

Kate was born in Enfield, London in 1989, but has lived in Wollongong, Australia for most of her life. Working full time as an independent author, Kate has published six novels in the last 2 years

Her sixth novel ‘Lone Girl’ is the sequel to ‘Alpha Girl’ a paranormal romance that explores a complicated student/teacher relationship.

Synopsis of ‘The Wolfling Saga’

Seventeen year old Rose Goldman is highly unpopular in the little town of Halfway. Ever since the ‘attack’ when she was a girl, people and animals have been afraid of her. She gets bullied in school, and called ‘wet dog’ because of the way she smells, despite being extremely hygienic. However, life takes a turn when a new teacher starts at Halfway High. Mr. Stone, the quirky and charismatic English teacher is twice Rose’s age, but she feels an unexplainable pull towards him from day one. Despite her better judgement, Rose pursues a friendship with Mr. Stone, who seems unable to stay away from her.

Review of The Wolfling Saga

“I was riveted. [The Wolfling Saga] is quite intimate and has a fairly small cast of characters. The protagonist is very believable and wasn’t annoying, which is a frequent problem in a lot of books featuring teenage lead characters narrating in the first-person. This is a romance (albeit a twisted one). Don’t pick up this book expecting a darkly sweet, cutesy love story. This series will blast you out of your comfort zone and make you hate yourself for turning the page. But you will turn the page.”

– Review of Alpha Girl by Mark Carver, Author of The Age of Apollyon.

Available exclusively through Amazon

Buy ‘Alpha Girl’ #1 eBook ($2.99USD): http://amzn.com/B00C1JULJI

Buy ‘Lone Girl’ #2 eBook ($2.99USD): http://amzn.com/B00LDIVDAO

Soon to be available as a box set for $4.99USD (Save 99c when you buy the bundle)

For more information about The Wolfling Saga, please visit: www.bloomfieldkate.com

Blog: www.katebloomfieldauthor.blogspot.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/katebloomfield

Facebook: www.facebook.com/katebloomfieldauthor

Wattpad: www.wattpad.com/katebloomfield

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/KateBloomfield

Amazon: http://amzn.com/e/B0077DUFJO

CLICK HERE TO ENTER FREE GIVEAWAY! Contest ends July 7!

As always, if you enjoy Kate’s books, please let her know by leaving a review on Goodreads or wherever you make your purchase. Thank you for supporting indie authors and be sure to check back on Monday, July 7 to meet another fabulous author, whose book just came out in June.

July 5, 2014 0

Tag: readers