Hey guys, sorry I'm posting this late in the day. Got a late start, had to go to the post office then had to work on a computer that began to give me a migraine. Ugh. Anyway, the box is all packed for the Grand Prize Winner and I also decided that a second winner will be getting an Author Promo Pack. Winners will be notified via email before being announced. Anyway, here is a snippet of the Flash I talked about. I wrote it for Teeka, who loved it. :-). So here you go.
Selena
P.S. I finished Lida's story just have to edit it and send it over to my editor. *Grin* Also, check out the fabulous Tilly Greene's Interview over at the website at: http://selenaillyria.pinkchairdiaries.com/interviews/
Goodbye Lover
By:
Selena Illyria
Copyright © 2008 Selena Illyria, All Rights Reserved
I/R, Futuristic, Sci-Fi
Bodies danced and gyrated everywhere she looked but her eyes were only on one person. Case, stood by the door, his large muscled arms folded across his chest. His obsidian eyes surveying the club’s interior. She knew she just had to get closer to him. Making her way through the sea of people, pushing passed the groupies near the DJ booth, she was finally standing in front of her goal.
“Case.”
“Teeka.”
“You busy?”
“Yes.”
“But I have a problem.”
She resisted the urge to pout. Instead making her move. She unlaced the tight corset giving him just a peek at the black lace confection of her bra.
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“I want you Case, from the moment I saw you.”
He raised a black eyebrow.
“I’ve been watching you for weeks and I’ve finally decided to make my move. Meet me in the parking lot at closing time.”
“You giving me an order?”
“You bet your ass.”
Teeka turned and walked away, putting a little extra something in her walk, swaying her her leather encased hips. She walked over to the bar, corset still unlaced giving the bartender an eyeful.
“Shot of whiskey, neat.”
She swiveled around in her seat and waited.
-end of excerpt-
*Selena ducks and hides*
Part of the Flash will be posted on Wednesday, in the meantime enjoy Guest Blogger, Emma Ray Garrett's post:
Stress, coffee, and "Wild Orchid"
Coffee. Stress. "Wild Orchid". If I didn't have any of the aforementioned things in my life, I wouldn't be the writer I am today, LOL!
I love to read. I've been reading since I was three and I have no intention of stopping, ever. I love to write and have been doing it just as long. But I'll be honest. I never really thought I'd be a 'writer'. Writing was such an integral part of my life that I didn't think of it like many writers/authors think about composing words to tell a story. I wanted to be a cop, a vet, a CIA agent. But a writer? I already was a writer, in my mind, but I never really thought about it beyond doing it for myself to relieve stress or get good grades.
Until I saw "Wild Orchid", that movie... wowza, "9 1/2 Weeks" was okay, but I was so HOT after seeing "Wild Orchid", I immediately grabbed a pen and paper and started writing out all of these wicked fantasies, LOL! I'd written some erotic thoughts before, but not with the cohesion I had after seeing "Wild Orchid". Alas, that phaze passed and pretty soon I was so busy working and raising a family that my writing was choked back to brief journaling when I had a few spare minutes. Until I read a book, the latest in one of my favorite series, and it was a total wall-banger. That book is what really stripped away all my excuses for not writing. I knew I could write a better story, one that I'd be satisfied with at the end. And so I did. And when the story came to life, and I had moments of sensuality or sexual intimacy, my mind flashed on "Wild Orchid". I wanted to make the readers feel the same gut-pulling, breath-stealing, overwhelming hunger I felt as I watched the movie unfold - in every emotional scene.
Coffee. A must have in most writer homes. Coffee is fantastic for so many different reasons. The smell alone gives me a smile and makes me feel alert and ready for the day. It also brings certain memories to mind about my grandparents. Grandpa took his black, no muss, no fuss. He brewed it at the crack of dawn and the smell never fails to make me smile and think of him. Grandpa never stopped - he was always on the go, moving, working, DOING. I know it wasn't the coffee that did it, but the man he was. However, every cup of coffee makes me feel like I'm channeling a bit of him and I drive myself to produce.
Stress is the last thing anyone would think a creative mind would need. And partially, that's true. Too much stress steals away my creative energy with such a fury that no amount of coffee can recharge. That said, I firmly believe that in order for any artist to create - regardless of medium - they have to be a little unhappy, a little angry, a little irritated. I think artists draw from that dark spot most people try to hid when they create. A writer can make a reader feel the exquisite joy a character feels because the writer them self has experienced the most horrible sorrow. A writer can make us laugh out loud because they have been so down that laughter became a figment of imagination. A writer makes vivid emotion because they feel the spectrum and because they know how bad things can get, but with a writers unique take on things, they are able to embody hope and happiness in the written word, even though they may be suffering as they write said words.
So, in short, coffee, stress, and "Wild Orchid" are some of the best things that have ever happened to me. What about you guys? What three things in your life, good or bad, do you think have had a profound impact on the person you are today?
Emma Ray
Stress, coffee, and "Wild Orchid"
Coffee. Stress. "Wild Orchid". If I didn't have any of the aforementioned things in my life, I wouldn't be the writer I am today, LOL!
I love to read. I've been reading since I was three and I have no intention of stopping, ever. I love to write and have been doing it just as long. But I'll be honest. I never really thought I'd be a 'writer'. Writing was such an integral part of my life that I didn't think of it like many writers/authors think about composing words to tell a story. I wanted to be a cop, a vet, a CIA agent. But a writer? I already was a writer, in my mind, but I never really thought about it beyond doing it for myself to relieve stress or get good grades.
Until I saw "Wild Orchid", that movie... wowza, "9 1/2 Weeks" was okay, but I was so HOT after seeing "Wild Orchid", I immediately grabbed a pen and paper and started writing out all of these wicked fantasies, LOL! I'd written some erotic thoughts before, but not with the cohesion I had after seeing "Wild Orchid". Alas, that phaze passed and pretty soon I was so busy working and raising a family that my writing was choked back to brief journaling when I had a few spare minutes. Until I read a book, the latest in one of my favorite series, and it was a total wall-banger. That book is what really stripped away all my excuses for not writing. I knew I could write a better story, one that I'd be satisfied with at the end. And so I did. And when the story came to life, and I had moments of sensuality or sexual intimacy, my mind flashed on "Wild Orchid". I wanted to make the readers feel the same gut-pulling, breath-stealing, overwhelming hunger I felt as I watched the movie unfold - in every emotional scene.
Coffee. A must have in most writer homes. Coffee is fantastic for so many different reasons. The smell alone gives me a smile and makes me feel alert and ready for the day. It also brings certain memories to mind about my grandparents. Grandpa took his black, no muss, no fuss. He brewed it at the crack of dawn and the smell never fails to make me smile and think of him. Grandpa never stopped - he was always on the go, moving, working, DOING. I know it wasn't the coffee that did it, but the man he was. However, every cup of coffee makes me feel like I'm channeling a bit of him and I drive myself to produce.
Stress is the last thing anyone would think a creative mind would need. And partially, that's true. Too much stress steals away my creative energy with such a fury that no amount of coffee can recharge. That said, I firmly believe that in order for any artist to create - regardless of medium - they have to be a little unhappy, a little angry, a little irritated. I think artists draw from that dark spot most people try to hid when they create. A writer can make a reader feel the exquisite joy a character feels because the writer them self has experienced the most horrible sorrow. A writer can make us laugh out loud because they have been so down that laughter became a figment of imagination. A writer makes vivid emotion because they feel the spectrum and because they know how bad things can get, but with a writers unique take on things, they are able to embody hope and happiness in the written word, even though they may be suffering as they write said words.
So, in short, coffee, stress, and "Wild Orchid" are some of the best things that have ever happened to me. What about you guys? What three things in your life, good or bad, do you think have had a profound impact on the person you are today?
Emma Ray
First off I'd like to Thank Pamela Tyner for posting about my debut novella and the April Contest on her blog. *Grin* Big Hugs.
Also, on Friday, Tilly said I looked saucy. LOL. I was wearing a pinstripe pencil skirt, slit up the back, my platform boots, rouched corset top and a little sateen jacket. Shar agreed. LOL. I didn't think I looked saucy when I put it on. LOL. And I got to meet Angela Knight and her husband before headed over to the front to meet Shar. They were both very nice. :-) That's it I think. Okay, Day 5 Recap, *sigh* My last day. Oh and I'm fully aware that I used the words "fun" and "nice" over and over again. LOL
Selena
Day 5 Recap
When I woke up that morning I was exhausted. I didn't have the energy for yet another day at the convention. Shar was sick so after some talking we both agreed it was time to go. *sigh* I knew I was getting sick. Tilly and her Cutie were lovely and allowed me to hitch a ride with them when they left that afternoon. I headed over to USPS to get boxes, Sam, was a doll and said he'd ship the boxes for us. After getting the boxes and headed back up to the room to drop things off, I got on the elevator. Sam got on and in front of a full elevator filled with people asked me if I had, had fun with the Vampire Guy. I was blushing like mad. Soooo, evil, but I forgive. LOL. I headed back to the table at the bar where I had left Shar, who was using the laptop.
We ran into the publisher of Red Rose who was having trouble with internet, Grrrr. No matter what we did or where we moved the laptop, no signal, after talking for a bit, I headed back over to Shar and we went to the Business Center. After that it was outside for a bit before heading back up to pack up boxes and suitcases. Before packing up the boxes, I had to drop off my bags at the car with Tilly's hubby. Poor guy, I had so much stuff, I blame Promo Alley. Shar called me a Promo Whore and she would be right. Couldn't walk through that place without grabbing some promo to give away for contests and such. After we managed to get my suitcases into the trunk, it was back to the hotel to finish packing.
We found something else to give Dakota so we headed down to the ballroom to the Bookfair. It was packed! People were everywhere and some of the lines were authors were long. Shar and I said good bye to a lot of people and bought books. There were so many people I was going to miss. I can smile at so many memories. The Pub on Friday, LMAO! *sigh* Once we were done at the bookfair it was time to finish packing. We brought the boxes down to Sam and then back up to the room to get Shar's bags down to the lobby. *sniff* After getting teary we had to say good-bye. I would miss one of my bestest friends. After hugging, I had to go down to the ballroom. Once the doors opened I was confused, the floor was dark. After a few minutes the lights came on. Well, it was an interesting end to the convention. I found Tilly and we left the ballroom, found her Cutie and headed out to the parking lot.
It was a beautiful day, a bit warm but nice. Driving back to Jersey was fun. We talked and laughed. :-). It was great hanging out with Tilly and her Cutie. By the time I got home I was exhausted, but I still had to check emails, get back to people and check on Shar to make sure she got to her hotel okay. I could barely remember anything. But I did know one thing, I did have fun and made some new friends. I really hope to go to RT next year and see everyone.
If I left anything out, I'm sure I'll just post about it later. Hugs, guys, I'm getting tired. Tomorrow (Tuesday) I'll post a bit a Flash, not part of the series mind you. I hope you like it. Hugs.
Selena
Also, on Friday, Tilly said I looked saucy. LOL. I was wearing a pinstripe pencil skirt, slit up the back, my platform boots, rouched corset top and a little sateen jacket. Shar agreed. LOL. I didn't think I looked saucy when I put it on. LOL. And I got to meet Angela Knight and her husband before headed over to the front to meet Shar. They were both very nice. :-) That's it I think. Okay, Day 5 Recap, *sigh* My last day. Oh and I'm fully aware that I used the words "fun" and "nice" over and over again. LOL
Selena
Day 5 Recap
When I woke up that morning I was exhausted. I didn't have the energy for yet another day at the convention. Shar was sick so after some talking we both agreed it was time to go. *sigh* I knew I was getting sick. Tilly and her Cutie were lovely and allowed me to hitch a ride with them when they left that afternoon. I headed over to USPS to get boxes, Sam, was a doll and said he'd ship the boxes for us. After getting the boxes and headed back up to the room to drop things off, I got on the elevator. Sam got on and in front of a full elevator filled with people asked me if I had, had fun with the Vampire Guy. I was blushing like mad. Soooo, evil, but I forgive. LOL. I headed back to the table at the bar where I had left Shar, who was using the laptop.
We ran into the publisher of Red Rose who was having trouble with internet, Grrrr. No matter what we did or where we moved the laptop, no signal, after talking for a bit, I headed back over to Shar and we went to the Business Center. After that it was outside for a bit before heading back up to pack up boxes and suitcases. Before packing up the boxes, I had to drop off my bags at the car with Tilly's hubby. Poor guy, I had so much stuff, I blame Promo Alley. Shar called me a Promo Whore and she would be right. Couldn't walk through that place without grabbing some promo to give away for contests and such. After we managed to get my suitcases into the trunk, it was back to the hotel to finish packing.
We found something else to give Dakota so we headed down to the ballroom to the Bookfair. It was packed! People were everywhere and some of the lines were authors were long. Shar and I said good bye to a lot of people and bought books. There were so many people I was going to miss. I can smile at so many memories. The Pub on Friday, LMAO! *sigh* Once we were done at the bookfair it was time to finish packing. We brought the boxes down to Sam and then back up to the room to get Shar's bags down to the lobby. *sniff* After getting teary we had to say good-bye. I would miss one of my bestest friends. After hugging, I had to go down to the ballroom. Once the doors opened I was confused, the floor was dark. After a few minutes the lights came on. Well, it was an interesting end to the convention. I found Tilly and we left the ballroom, found her Cutie and headed out to the parking lot.
It was a beautiful day, a bit warm but nice. Driving back to Jersey was fun. We talked and laughed. :-). It was great hanging out with Tilly and her Cutie. By the time I got home I was exhausted, but I still had to check emails, get back to people and check on Shar to make sure she got to her hotel okay. I could barely remember anything. But I did know one thing, I did have fun and made some new friends. I really hope to go to RT next year and see everyone.
If I left anything out, I'm sure I'll just post about it later. Hugs, guys, I'm getting tired. Tomorrow (Tuesday) I'll post a bit a Flash, not part of the series mind you. I hope you like it. Hugs.
Selena
Sorry no update yesterday, I was trying to remember what had happend on Day 4 but my brain wasn't cooperating with me. Let's see if it's working for me today. LOL. Sorry, no Friday Flash, buuuuut maybe a weekend Flash if you're good. LOL. Okay, Day 4 recap, there was a lot happening so I may get the order of events out of sequence.
Selena
Day 4 Recap
The day started off at The Nightwalker Stud Muffin Morning Mixer. It was so much fun! Jacki is awesome. LOL. After hanging out for a bit, Shar and I went outside. Shar had a cig, I spotted Sahara and we went over and said, Hi! Sahara is awesome and so sweet. :-). We then met Maya outside, after talking a bit we went inside. We missed the St. Martin's Spotlight, so we hung out at the bar. We were joined by Marty and Beth. :-). After sitting and talking for a bit, I spotted Lori Foster. I got up the courage and went over and said, Hi and thanked her for donating to the trunks. She was so nice. :-).
I went back to the table, Marty, Shar and Maya were back. I got up and dragged Savannah over to us. LOL. We hung out and talked for a bit before going over to the Kensington Spotlight. That was fun and very informative. After it was over, talking to a few people we went out to the lobby. Some one, sorry can't remember who, pointed out J.R. Ward to us. At first Shar wasn't going to go over to her but I dragged her with me. Shar called out to her and she stopped and talked to us. She was very nice. :-).
We went up to the Awards Luncheon and grabbed a table and a good time. Shar and I sat with D. Renee Bagby, Stephanie Burke, Stephanie Burke's Husband, L.A. Banks, Renee's mom and we managed to squeeze Savannah at our table. We honestly thought we were going to get kicked out, we just had so much fun, laughing and talking.
Afterward, it was time for the Sinfully Sweet party. We had fun, we played Dirty Minds and Pin the Junk on the Hunk. We gave away all the prizes and laughed a lot. Afterward, Shar and I hung out at the bar, I got to have a Bailey's on Ice. Mmmmm . . . nice! When it was time we headed up to the Safari Happy Hour. It was fun, I got a book signed by Sylvia Day and Sasha White. :-).
After that it was just hanging out at the Pub with Shar, Terri Pray and Sam. We got to sit and talk for awhile. I then spotted a guy a the bar weaing vampire regalia. I said, "Nice costume."
His response, "It's not a costume."
I got teased by Terri, Sam and Shar. LOL. Cause I wanted a piccie. After blushing a lot, I finally got up and asked for a piccie. He was nice and obliged. Sam took the pic but not without much teasing and me blushing. LOL. I soon went off to find Savannah. I found Savannah and we went back up to the bar. I ran into Samantha Kane during my search for Savannah and said hi. We hung out at the bar. Vampire dude (no, I didn't get his name) came back and asked me if I had went to party. I had gone in for a second and went back out. Now the timeline gets a bit fuzzy because I was also hanging out with Dakota, Renee, Michele, Terry, Jaynie and Lori (If I'm wrong or left anyone out please do yell at me) sometime that night too. I blame the fuzzines on the Bailey's, lol. I returned to the bar sometime and hung out with Liz, Mary, Liz K, Bianca, Jess, Shar, Savannah and her friends. We had laughed a lot and had a good time.
Gwen joined us for a bit before up to the hotel room at around two in the morning, I think it was two could have been one, not sure. All in all it was a fun time. More tomorrow. Hugs.
Selena
P.S. Before I forget, sometime during the day I gave Dakota a cute little bag to give away. She was so sweet, she asked me and Shar to sign it. Also, sometime during the day, we spotted Brenda Jackson. Shar hadn't wanted to go up to her because she was on the phone. So, we left and then came back. I urged Shar to say something, which she did. Shar got a pic with her and they ended up talking. *Grin* Okay, that's about it. If I remember anything else, I'll post it. Laters. :-)
Selena
Day 4 Recap
The day started off at The Nightwalker Stud Muffin Morning Mixer. It was so much fun! Jacki is awesome. LOL. After hanging out for a bit, Shar and I went outside. Shar had a cig, I spotted Sahara and we went over and said, Hi! Sahara is awesome and so sweet. :-). We then met Maya outside, after talking a bit we went inside. We missed the St. Martin's Spotlight, so we hung out at the bar. We were joined by Marty and Beth. :-). After sitting and talking for a bit, I spotted Lori Foster. I got up the courage and went over and said, Hi and thanked her for donating to the trunks. She was so nice. :-).
I went back to the table, Marty, Shar and Maya were back. I got up and dragged Savannah over to us. LOL. We hung out and talked for a bit before going over to the Kensington Spotlight. That was fun and very informative. After it was over, talking to a few people we went out to the lobby. Some one, sorry can't remember who, pointed out J.R. Ward to us. At first Shar wasn't going to go over to her but I dragged her with me. Shar called out to her and she stopped and talked to us. She was very nice. :-).
We went up to the Awards Luncheon and grabbed a table and a good time. Shar and I sat with D. Renee Bagby, Stephanie Burke, Stephanie Burke's Husband, L.A. Banks, Renee's mom and we managed to squeeze Savannah at our table. We honestly thought we were going to get kicked out, we just had so much fun, laughing and talking.
Afterward, it was time for the Sinfully Sweet party. We had fun, we played Dirty Minds and Pin the Junk on the Hunk. We gave away all the prizes and laughed a lot. Afterward, Shar and I hung out at the bar, I got to have a Bailey's on Ice. Mmmmm . . . nice! When it was time we headed up to the Safari Happy Hour. It was fun, I got a book signed by Sylvia Day and Sasha White. :-).
After that it was just hanging out at the Pub with Shar, Terri Pray and Sam. We got to sit and talk for awhile. I then spotted a guy a the bar weaing vampire regalia. I said, "Nice costume."
His response, "It's not a costume."
I got teased by Terri, Sam and Shar. LOL. Cause I wanted a piccie. After blushing a lot, I finally got up and asked for a piccie. He was nice and obliged. Sam took the pic but not without much teasing and me blushing. LOL. I soon went off to find Savannah. I found Savannah and we went back up to the bar. I ran into Samantha Kane during my search for Savannah and said hi. We hung out at the bar. Vampire dude (no, I didn't get his name) came back and asked me if I had went to party. I had gone in for a second and went back out. Now the timeline gets a bit fuzzy because I was also hanging out with Dakota, Renee, Michele, Terry, Jaynie and Lori (If I'm wrong or left anyone out please do yell at me) sometime that night too. I blame the fuzzines on the Bailey's, lol. I returned to the bar sometime and hung out with Liz, Mary, Liz K, Bianca, Jess, Shar, Savannah and her friends. We had laughed a lot and had a good time.
Gwen joined us for a bit before up to the hotel room at around two in the morning, I think it was two could have been one, not sure. All in all it was a fun time. More tomorrow. Hugs.
Selena
P.S. Before I forget, sometime during the day I gave Dakota a cute little bag to give away. She was so sweet, she asked me and Shar to sign it. Also, sometime during the day, we spotted Brenda Jackson. Shar hadn't wanted to go up to her because she was on the phone. So, we left and then came back. I urged Shar to say something, which she did. Shar got a pic with her and they ended up talking. *Grin* Okay, that's about it. If I remember anything else, I'll post it. Laters. :-)
I'm feeling a bit better, the headache is gone which is good, I'm just waiting for the rest of me to feel better. *sigh* Okay, a few notes.
I loved Stephanie Burke's and D. Renee Bagby's Costumes.
Sorry the pic is blurry. I can tell you the costumes were great. I especially loved Renee's boots. I left when the music started to play, I was tired and cold. So, I headed back to the room. The end of another day. More tomorrow. Hugs.
1- We met Jacki Frank on Tuesday. Shar went out for a cig, I followed and Jacki was sitting on a bench. Jacki is just a totally lovely, wonderful, fun person. I adore her. That evening we sat at her table and I got to try a Silver Bullet, now I don't normally like licorice, which is what the drink tastes like at first, but I tried it. I loved the light fruity after taste. Very yummy. :-) We also got to meet Chris Winter who was a sweetie.
Also, on Tuesday, I introduced myself to Dakota Cassidy, who is an absolute sweetheart. She invited myself and Shar to the workshop she was doing Reinventing: How to Tread New Mystical Ground Workshop and to the Evening Temptation party on Thursday.
2- As we were leaving the EC party Shar introduced me to Sasha White! I adore her. She knew who I! LOL. Sasha is awesome. I loved her hair, she cut it short and had a blue streak in it. I wonder if Maria can do that for my hair? LOL.
I think that's all for now, let's move on to the Day 3 recap shall we?
Selena
Day 3 Recap
We had a pretty busy day. After grabbing some coffee and hanging out a bit at the bar we headed over to the Samhain Spotlight, which was fun. :-). After that we made our way over to the Erotica Workshop. It was very interesting and fun. A lot to think about especially in categorization of Erotica. After it was over, I got to talk to Louisa Burton who was very nice and informative, I also asked her to do the Pink Chair Diaries :-).
We stopped for lunch at the restaurant, I briefly ducked out to intro Savannah to Sasha White. Did I mention Sasha is awesome? LOL. After lunch we headed over to the Ellora's Cave Spotlight. I got to say hi to Ciana Stone. :-). The Spotlight was fun and interesting. At the end we got to see Lynne Connolly's Ausus eee computer which was just soooo cute. I wanted one after seeing how compact and adorable it was.
We got to meet Sherri L. King, Darrell King and Tawny Taylor, who were all so nice. I got to pitch to, well tried to pitch the Pink Chair Diaries to Sherri, Shar had to help me because I getting a bit flustered, lol. Sherri loved the idea and said she knew some other authors might love to donate to the site to. *Grin* We did good, lol. I hope Tawny also wants to contribute too, I pitched to her as well. *Smile*
(Quick Note: The Pink Chair Diaries is up to 40,000 Hits, *Squeeeee* Thank You!)
We called Ce and told her the news, she was so excited. *Smile* After that we went inside and headed for the bar. We had at least an hour and half to kill before the Evening Temptation Party at six. We sat drank a bit before heading down to the party. We spotted Renee George and started to talking to her while waiting in line. Renee was about to go when Michele spotted us and pulled us out of line and into the party, before anyone else was let in. *Grin* It felt so weird.
We found a table and sat down for a bit. I went to grab two goodie bags, one for me and one for Shar. We took the bags to be signed. When I brought my bag up Mary Janice signed over Michele's name and Michele signed over Mary Janice's name *giggle*. The party was great. I had introduced myself to Camille Anthony at the EC party but at this party I got to talk to her. She was lovely and funny. :-)
After that, it was time for the Faery Ball. Shar wasn't feeling well and decided to stay up at the room. I went down and stood in line, waiting for the doors to open. It was cold, again and once inside the ballroom it was freezing, I was actually shivering. It was fun, the food was good and the costumes were interesting. The ballroom looked great.
I loved Stephanie Burke's and D. Renee Bagby's Costumes.Selena
Hey guys, currently, still not feeling well. But I muddling through it as best I can. Right now I have a headache, *sigh*. We'll see how I feel tomorrow. Anyway, Day 2 recap, let's go.
Selena
Day 2 Recap
Wednesday was the Ebook Expo. I decided to wear my Book Cover T-Shirt, which I loved! Too bad I didn't get to wear it all day, more on that later. We started the day at registration. It was only 8 or a little after 8, when we got to the ballroom level. There was already a long line coming out of the ballroom. We waited a bit and finally they were ready to start. When I got my badge, there was a mistake and I had to wait three hours for it to be fixed because there was something wrong with the computer. *sigh* So, while waiting we headed upstairs, I bought some cute green and black earrings from a vendor who had some gorgeous jewelry. Before going up to the room, to grab some promo, I met D. Renee Bagby in the lobby. We grabbed an elevator up to the seventh floor and I headed to the room to grab promo. After making sure I had everything, I went back down to the lobby.
Shar and I headed to promo alley to set up, we put out the postcards and business cards for the Pink Chair and business cards for myself and the Book Cover Business Cards out, arranging everything as best we could, since I hadn't realized we could just put promo out, so we had no baskets for everything. That was fine, improvisation. After wandering for a bit we headed back downstairs for my new badge. Less of crowd this time and I got my badge which was all nice and fixed. *Grin*
A bit more wandering after getting the badge. Headed to the Pub where we met Maya and Beth. After sitting down, I ordered a cherry coke. Then something happened, the drink slid off the table and spilled all over me and landed a bit on Shar. I don't know how it happened, it was on the table, I swear. *sigh* My shirt and jeans were soaked. I had to go back up to the room to change. I did get to wear a pretty, pretty tunic top that, since I'm short could double as a dress on me. LOL.
I checked Promo Alley to see if we were low on anything and put more out if it was needed. Went back into the pub, then outside and hung out for a bit. I got to meet Renee George! *Grin* We then headed for the Reinventing: How to Tread New Mystical Ground Workshop, which was so much fun. I loved it, we laughed a lot. Shar and I left early because we had to head to the Changeling Press spotlight, where I met M, Lacey Savage and Flash. Apparently Lacey and I are of the Fae people according to M, because we're both short. M has yet to meet Ce and According to Dawn, if you put myself (brunette), Ce (blond) and her (red head) together we'd be Neapolitan Fae. LMAO!
Anyway, I had fun at the CP spotlight it was great meeting my publisher. *smile* After that M, Stephanie Burke (aka Flash), Stephanie's Hubby, Shar and me headed down to the ballroom for the Ebook Expo. Shar and I helped set up. Shar helped me set up my place at the table. Even thought I signed up, albeit last minute, for the Ebook Expo, I didn't have a place card. Shar made my sign and made up my display of business cards and postcards (Thanks, hon). A pic of my display below.
I was nervous. I wasn't sure if anyone would stop by and take some of the promo. It didn't help that the codes for buying the books from ARe, hadn't been handed out so I couldn't make any sales if anyone would be interested. But it was okay, I was nervous enough without worrying if anyone would want to buy my book. I sat at my place just looking around once the Expo started. I wasn't bored per say, just alert, oh and cold. LOL.
My Expo experience went from just waiting for someone to stop by to just grinning like a idiot when a reader told me that my book was on their list. *Squeeee!* My book was on someone list whether to read or buy or whatever, who cares, they were interested in my work. *Big Grin* Then someone told me they had read my book and liked it. Another squeee! The expo was great, Dakota came over, after seeing some of my promo all arranaged, she asked me to sign something to go in a giveaway. *Big Grin* I signed a Pink Chair Postcard. *Smile*
The Expo went by and despite the cold it was fun. I got to talk to Aleka Nakis, who was so nice and asked me to do an interview. *smile* Once the Expo was over I wove through the crowds of people leaving, trying to find Tilly Greene. Found her packing up, hugged and we walked to the elevator. She told me she loved my book, yes folks another *squeee*. I adore Tilly's work and it meant a lot to me for her to say that. She was one of the few people in the beginning who got to read Green Beer before I changed it and loved it as is. *Smile*
After seeing the line for the elevator we tried the service elevator. I got off on the seventh floor only to get lost trying to find my way out. Had to take the service elevator to the eighth floor and go down. Yeah I know, but I was in a hurry. I didn't have time to try and figure out where the freaking door that led out to the seventh floor was.
Rushed through getting ready for the EC party, then headed down to the ballroom with Shar. We finally got in and met Liz Andrews and Mary. :-). The EC party was fun, didn't stay for all of it. We headed to the bar to meet up with some people. They weren't there but that was okay. We sat, talked with a few people we knew and then Shar used her magic.
Mary Janice Davidson walked into the bar. I wanted to say hi and tell her how much I loved her books but didn't have the guts to. Soooo . . . Shar got up and she actually got Mary Janice Davidson to come to the table and say, "Hi!". OMG! She was so nice. I was all smiles for the rest of the evening. We got to talk to Terri Pray and her husband Sam, wonderful people. Adore them! :-)
I believe after that the night was over, too tired. All in all a good day. I'm pretty surprised, I remembered more than I thought I would. More tomorrow. Hugs.
Selena
God, I hope I can remember everything. Currently my brain is on tired mode. Woke up from a nap and just knew I was getting sick. Time to break out the cran-grape and Blueberry Smirnoff. Don't look at me like that Shar. LOL. I promised a look at the fabulous Blood Kiss Candle that JFay of Studio 3b made, check it out. *grin*
Lovely yes? I can't wait to work on more candles with her. I've got ideas. Mwhahahaha. She is fantastic to work with, I adore this candle. Soooo, I'll be giving this away as part of the April Contest, some lucky person will get the first Blood Kiss Candle, as well as a few RT goodies I managed to snag.
Ce, Shar and I are already planning for next year's RT. Be afraid people, very afraid. The PCD Trio will be there in full force. LOL. I've decided next year I actually want to dress up, thinking the Gothic Lolita look. *grin* I adore that style.
Okay, let's see what I can remember from Day 1 yes? I'm sure Shar will correct me and I'll let you guys know. All I know is Thursday is sketchy can remember certain things but not remember the order. I'm sure Shar will tease the hell out of me for this. LOL. I hope she blogs about RT, I can't wait to see her take on things. LOL. Please pardon anything out of order, as I said trying remember things.
Selena
P.S. I updatd the Contest and Review Page on my Website, please go check out what I've add.
Okay, Day 1.
We arrived at RT on Tuesday. I called Savannah to let her know we had arrived and were checking in. (Savannah is gorgeous by the way. She's gonna kill me. LOL. No posting piccies I promise!) Met her in the lobby and we hugged. She told us registration wouldn't be happening until Wednesday morning, which was a bit annoying, wanted to get signed in now, but whatever. Went to the room to check it out, uh, small?
Two small beds, which were the biggest thing there. The bathroom had a sliding glass door with frosted glass on it, have they heard of privacy? We arranged our stuff as best we could, given that there were four people total staying in the room. I'm not even going to talk about the state of the hallway. After that we headed down to the pub, Savannah had to go help peeps so it was just me and Shar in the pub, taking things in.
We were soon joined by Maya, Marty, Angela, Bianca, Cat and the girls from FAR, Gwen Eve. We started to talk and laugh over drinks and reminiscing about last year's RT. I got stories, lol. I'm sad I couldn't go last year. Sounded like a lot of things happened. *smile* We soon left the pub, went out with Shar for a smoke (I don't smoke but I went anyway). When we got in we met up with Maya who invited us to a party in her room.
We got to meet fellow authors and readers, talk more, laugh and have a bit more fun. Soon we were leaving. After that it was bed time. All in all, a good first day, the madness was soon about to begin.
Before I go, I'm apart of two scavenger hunts going on. You can find the info here:
http://romanticdaysscavengerhunt.blogspot.com/
and here:
http://www.joyfullyreviewed.com/ContestPage.html
Good Luck!
Selena
I'm back from RT and exhausted, my stomach hates me and I've got the beginnings of sinus headache. I'm so tired and I'm trying to sort out all my memories and compose them. I'm sorry I didn't blog like I promised, the Internet at the hotel was sketchy you either got a connection to the Internet, got it and got dropped or didn't get a signal at all. I'm so sorry, you can flog me later.Wait, I'm just kidding. Shar put down the flogger! Ce! Hey! Let go of my wrists. A little help here? LOL
I will blog about RT once I get my bearings. I'd like to give a special Thank You Tilly and her Cutie. You guys are awesome. Thank You again, so much! :-)
Once I get my bearings, I'll also post a piccie of the Blood Kiss Candle from Studio 3b, JFay rocked and I can't wait to work with her again. *Grin* I hope you guys love this candle, I just adore it, smells like Black Cherry. *smile*
When I got back, I also, finally got my little rubber stamp, ugh. I'll talk about that, along with the pretty, pretty book marks with my cover and blurb on them (Thanks Ce!) and Rated M, authors. *Grin* Oh and the two scavenger hunts I'm apart of. *Grin*
There are just so many people I have to Thank and people I got to meet. It was just lovely all around. *Smile* Hugs all around.
Selena
I will blog about RT once I get my bearings. I'd like to give a special Thank You Tilly and her Cutie. You guys are awesome. Thank You again, so much! :-)
Once I get my bearings, I'll also post a piccie of the Blood Kiss Candle from Studio 3b, JFay rocked and I can't wait to work with her again. *Grin* I hope you guys love this candle, I just adore it, smells like Black Cherry. *smile*
When I got back, I also, finally got my little rubber stamp, ugh. I'll talk about that, along with the pretty, pretty book marks with my cover and blurb on them (Thanks Ce!) and Rated M, authors. *Grin* Oh and the two scavenger hunts I'm apart of. *Grin*
There are just so many people I have to Thank and people I got to meet. It was just lovely all around. *Smile* Hugs all around.
Selena
This week or next. I've been running around all week and barely had time to catch up. I did manage to sub a story though. *grin* I'll be blogging about RT, if I can. *crosses fingers for internet reception*. Okay, Laters guys, I have to go, RT week kicks off now, in a few hours I'll be meeting up with Ro, Eve and Shar. Whooo hooo! Laters and Hugs.
Selena
Selena
Artistic Musings: Stella Price
Bio and Links: Stella Price is a multi-published award winning author and cover artist. She is the Art Director for Tease Publishing, and does artistic consulting for several firms in the field. She is a cover artist for BluPh'ier publishing, Mystic Moon Press, FireDrake Weyr, Phaze books and does all the exclusive design work for several bands and Authors.
With over 12 years experience and a BA in Industrial Design, Stella Price brings new life to the graphics industry with her designs. Please see her client list for all the companies she has and does work with/for.
Check out her author website at http://www.stellaandaudra.com/ and her full deviant art portfolio at: http://stellaprice.deviantart.com/gallery and her website home: Twilight Industries: http://www.twilightindustries.net/
Q&A:
1) When did you know you wanted to be a Graphic Artist?
I have always been an artist. I went to college for Industrial Design and Special effects. My Major was puppetry, my minor was English. Go figure. I actually had no desire to be a 2D artist, I loved model making and prosthetics, so I was never really into the graphic art. It wasn’t till I got into the Literature and publishing industry and saw what was passing for covers that I got interested.
2) How long does it take you to do a (design, book cover, website)?
Book covers can take anywhere from 2 days to 4 months, depending on the intricacies of the piece. Websites, take about a week to design and then three days to set up. I’m not the fastest out there, but I feel the work I do is quality.
3) Where do you get your inspiration?
I look at everything in a conceptual light. When I do a cover, I think “would think look good on the shelf at the bookstore?” and work from that.
4) Any tips for aspiring Graphic Artists?
Learn how to use your program. always work on projects and try to better your work. There are leaders in the covers industry, study them, see what kind of work others are doing… see if you can do the same, and take it one step further. Always, Always hone your craft.
5) How do you calculate your price for one of your (figures, book covers, websites)?
Depends on the amount of work you put in. Covers I personally charge a flat fee, but I have a large enough portfolio that I can charge a flat fee and they know they are getting quality. For websites, again, it depends on the amount of work you do for the site.
6) What is your favorite (book cover, figure, website) that you’ve created?
I have a few, but my two favorites would have to be Kayleigh Jamisons’s Leading Her to Heaven cover and Adra Steia’s Swamp Baby cover.
7) Is there a place other than your website, where we can view your work?
My deviant Art Page: http://stellaprice.devaintart.com/gallery
8) I know there a few programs that an Artist uses to create their work, such as Daz or Photoshop, what do you use?
I use PSP X exclusively.
9) Silly Time, what would a lion, elephant, zebra, penguin and snake look like smooshed together to create one animal and what would you call this new creature?
Good lord that sounds like something you dream about after a bottle of tequila and couple of rancid bratwurst.
10) Anything you want to say or add? Anything you want to ask me? And for the record, yes I am crazy so you can’t ask that.
LOL nope… LOL.
If you are also an author, please include a blurb of your latest work as well as buy link and excerpt.
Frost and Flame: A tale of the Eververse
Book Three
Stella and Audra Price
Thirteen years is a long time apart… and enough time to make things right… and when Fire and Ice Collide…
The Exiled prince and rightful heir of the Conglacio Throne, Cassiel, Casha or Cash to his friends and family, has dealt with much in the past thirteen years, madness, betrayal and the loss of not only his first born child but its mother, Princess Faris, Heir to the Cento throne. He’s spent his time on earth wisely, trying to collect the ten thousand souls he needs to return home, to get back to his Family, his throne and his Princess, and kill the Demon that took it all from him. He’s not even Close to attaining his goal.
Princess Faris had a plan, one that involved returning to the love of her life, regardless of the consequences. It seems now the stakes are much higher, as she doesn’t want History to repeat itself. Nothing will stand in her way, not her would-be Husband, her father’s right hand man, or her Father, King of the Centos and overlord of the Afterverse. After all, lighting doesn’t strike the same place twice…
Buy NOW: http://allromanceebooks.com/product-frostandflame-7613-140.html
Bio and Links: Stella Price is a multi-published award winning author and cover artist. She is the Art Director for Tease Publishing, and does artistic consulting for several firms in the field. She is a cover artist for BluPh'ier publishing, Mystic Moon Press, FireDrake Weyr, Phaze books and does all the exclusive design work for several bands and Authors.
With over 12 years experience and a BA in Industrial Design, Stella Price brings new life to the graphics industry with her designs. Please see her client list for all the companies she has and does work with/for.
Check out her author website at http://www.stellaandaudra.com/ and her full deviant art portfolio at: http://stellaprice.deviantart.com/gallery and her website home: Twilight Industries: http://www.twilightindustries.net/
Q&A:
1) When did you know you wanted to be a Graphic Artist?
I have always been an artist. I went to college for Industrial Design and Special effects. My Major was puppetry, my minor was English. Go figure. I actually had no desire to be a 2D artist, I loved model making and prosthetics, so I was never really into the graphic art. It wasn’t till I got into the Literature and publishing industry and saw what was passing for covers that I got interested.
2) How long does it take you to do a (design, book cover, website)?
Book covers can take anywhere from 2 days to 4 months, depending on the intricacies of the piece. Websites, take about a week to design and then three days to set up. I’m not the fastest out there, but I feel the work I do is quality.
3) Where do you get your inspiration?
I look at everything in a conceptual light. When I do a cover, I think “would think look good on the shelf at the bookstore?” and work from that.
4) Any tips for aspiring Graphic Artists?
Learn how to use your program. always work on projects and try to better your work. There are leaders in the covers industry, study them, see what kind of work others are doing… see if you can do the same, and take it one step further. Always, Always hone your craft.
5) How do you calculate your price for one of your (figures, book covers, websites)?
Depends on the amount of work you put in. Covers I personally charge a flat fee, but I have a large enough portfolio that I can charge a flat fee and they know they are getting quality. For websites, again, it depends on the amount of work you do for the site.
6) What is your favorite (book cover, figure, website) that you’ve created?
I have a few, but my two favorites would have to be Kayleigh Jamisons’s Leading Her to Heaven cover and Adra Steia’s Swamp Baby cover.
7) Is there a place other than your website, where we can view your work?
My deviant Art Page: http://stellaprice.devaintart.com/gallery
8) I know there a few programs that an Artist uses to create their work, such as Daz or Photoshop, what do you use?
I use PSP X exclusively.
9) Silly Time, what would a lion, elephant, zebra, penguin and snake look like smooshed together to create one animal and what would you call this new creature?
Good lord that sounds like something you dream about after a bottle of tequila and couple of rancid bratwurst.
10) Anything you want to say or add? Anything you want to ask me? And for the record, yes I am crazy so you can’t ask that.
LOL nope… LOL.
If you are also an author, please include a blurb of your latest work as well as buy link and excerpt.
Frost and Flame: A tale of the Eververse
Book Three
Stella and Audra Price
Thirteen years is a long time apart… and enough time to make things right… and when Fire and Ice Collide…
The Exiled prince and rightful heir of the Conglacio Throne, Cassiel, Casha or Cash to his friends and family, has dealt with much in the past thirteen years, madness, betrayal and the loss of not only his first born child but its mother, Princess Faris, Heir to the Cento throne. He’s spent his time on earth wisely, trying to collect the ten thousand souls he needs to return home, to get back to his Family, his throne and his Princess, and kill the Demon that took it all from him. He’s not even Close to attaining his goal.
Princess Faris had a plan, one that involved returning to the love of her life, regardless of the consequences. It seems now the stakes are much higher, as she doesn’t want History to repeat itself. Nothing will stand in her way, not her would-be Husband, her father’s right hand man, or her Father, King of the Centos and overlord of the Afterverse. After all, lighting doesn’t strike the same place twice…
Buy NOW: http://allromanceebooks.com/product-frostandflame-7613-140.html
Hi everyone!
I'm Guest Blogging today at the Readers Lounge at The Cata Network. Please drop by and say hi!
http://readerslounge.catanetwork.com/
Selena
P.S. Don't forget to check out the April Contest and Recommended Reads post.
I'm Guest Blogging today at the Readers Lounge at The Cata Network. Please drop by and say hi!
http://readerslounge.catanetwork.com/
Selena
P.S. Don't forget to check out the April Contest and Recommended Reads post.
Win:
1 Copy of The Pursuit of Happiness Widescreen Edition of the movie
1 Laura Ashley 50 Page Journal
1 Copy of Coming Soon by Jo Leigh
1 Aloe Vera Bath Travel Pack
1 Natural Handmade Jasmine Rice Bar of Soap
1 Author Promo Pack
To enter all you have to do is send an email to selenaillyria DOT contests AT gmail Dot com with the words April Contest in the subject line and let me know where you heard the contest from. All entries must be in by Midnight EST on April 30th, 2008. More goodies may be added later. Good Luck!
Selena
1 Copy of The Pursuit of Happiness Widescreen Edition of the movie
1 Laura Ashley 50 Page Journal
1 Copy of Coming Soon by Jo Leigh
1 Aloe Vera Bath Travel Pack
1 Natural Handmade Jasmine Rice Bar of Soap
1 Author Promo Pack
To enter all you have to do is send an email to selenaillyria DOT contests AT gmail Dot com with the words April Contest in the subject line and let me know where you heard the contest from. All entries must be in by Midnight EST on April 30th, 2008. More goodies may be added later. Good Luck!
Selena
* * * * * *
Recommended Reads
Blurb:
No one knows better than Alexis Donovan how the universe turns around IAS patrols. You play or you're spaced. When she's given an offer she can't refuse, she has no choice but to bring in the bounty, alive. A mark's a mark, right? But what's a girl to do when the man she has to bring in is the man who haunts her sleep at night?
A courier exchange gone wrong has sent Mack Hernandez into a whirlwind of chaos. Torn from the family he tried to save and thrust into Spaceport Adana, he does what he can to survive. An incredible encounter… or two… with a bounty hunter has him walking a fine line between life and death. What starts out as a struggle for freedom between the two sends them careening headfirst into a cover-up big enough to blow the Haze patrol sector apart.
When the heat turns on and the adrenaline rides high, can they keep their hearts strong and steady?
Buy Link:
http://www.changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=820
Selena Says:
I loved this book. It had action, sci fi, a kick ass,, strong and sexy heroine and a hot, sweet, strong hero. The world created was just so cool. Kind of reminded me a bit of Firefly, which I loved! I would love to revisit this world again. K'taran was just adorable, although I doubt my own cat would be willing to get such a wild dye job or any dye job for that matter, lol. I highly recommend this book. To find out more about the Space Port Series click here. To find out more about Ms. Montgomery and her work check out her website.
2Nd Recommended Read:
Blurb:
Sex therapist by day, erotic lucid dreaming sex kitten by night, Eryn can't understand the driving need to find her dream lover. Sure the dreams are hot, and the man is even hotter, but as a modern woman, she's not supposed to allow hormones to rule her.
When a trip to Ireland brings her face to face with the man of her dreams, though, she throws caution to the wind and submits. But what happens now that it's no longer a dream?Publisher's
Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable.
Buy Link:
http://www.loose-id.com/detail.aspx?ID=668
Selena Says:
I loved this story, hot, sweet and sexy all rolled into one. Geez can I find a man like Brendan? LOL. I adored how he let go and accepted love, but I totally understood Eryn's hesitation. This story made me want to go to Ireland, although come to think of it, I don't really need that much encouragement now do I? LOL. I highly recommend this book. To check out more works from Ms. Hasker, see her website.
Until next month, Hugs all around.
Selena
Why I Write Straight from my Shameless, Outrageous, Passionate Heart.
by Ashlyn Chase
I just read an article about how comedy writers should not use too much humor and how they should temper it, i.e. curb the urge to let the heroine crawl out the bathroom window. Huh? What’s wrong with that? Hey, I’ve done it myself (and I’m not just talking fiction!)
Fine. Some people aren’t comfortable letting their slips show. Isn’t that what editors are for? To reel us in when necessary? I don’t care if my Freudian slips show and it seems to be okay with my editor. Even more okay with fans. I can hardly believe that I actually have fans or that my work generates great reviews and reader mail! Maybe others are warped too, I don’t know.
What I do know is this. 1) Our world can use a few good belly-laughs and a lot of love. 2) I enjoy writing when I’m having fun with it and the more fun I have the less I care what people think. And 3) Readers can tell when words come from a place of passion and truth. My passion is making people laugh.
And truth? You might think that’s an odd word to describe a fiction writer’s goal, especially one who writes Vampire and Shapeshifter comedies. Here’s the thing…a wonderful quote I read ages ago said it best. “You must be fearless to be a writer.” I wish I could remember the fearless female’s name, but I can’t. The idea being that each writer has some sort of truth to tell, regardless of the manner in which they tell it. It takes guts to tell your own truth with your own voice.
We all have words to live by. Whether positive or negative, some of these words hit a chord and stick. I’ve found some wonderful mentors along the way who’ve imparted words of wisdom. My number one wise woman was my mother. She often said to me, “Nothing ventured; Nothing gained.” Yup. She was right. Well, except when great things just fall into one’s lap with absolutely no effort, but how often does that happen? It even takes faith, foresight and effort to buy a lottery ticket.
She also said people would be jealous of me all my life. Wow, that was a trip to lay on a teenager! But she was right about that too. And you can’t let jealousy stop you. Some people will be jealous of the time you spend writing. Tough noogies. Some will be jealous that you can do something they can’t. Yay you. Who knows…some people might even be jealous that you once had the guts to climb out a bathroom window to avoid a lounge lizard who thought he could charm your pants off. So what? Be fearless enough to write about it. Whatever your gift, embrace it. Be passionate about it. Write whatever you really love and take no prisoners!
by Ashlyn Chase
I just read an article about how comedy writers should not use too much humor and how they should temper it, i.e. curb the urge to let the heroine crawl out the bathroom window. Huh? What’s wrong with that? Hey, I’ve done it myself (and I’m not just talking fiction!)
Fine. Some people aren’t comfortable letting their slips show. Isn’t that what editors are for? To reel us in when necessary? I don’t care if my Freudian slips show and it seems to be okay with my editor. Even more okay with fans. I can hardly believe that I actually have fans or that my work generates great reviews and reader mail! Maybe others are warped too, I don’t know.
What I do know is this. 1) Our world can use a few good belly-laughs and a lot of love. 2) I enjoy writing when I’m having fun with it and the more fun I have the less I care what people think. And 3) Readers can tell when words come from a place of passion and truth. My passion is making people laugh.
And truth? You might think that’s an odd word to describe a fiction writer’s goal, especially one who writes Vampire and Shapeshifter comedies. Here’s the thing…a wonderful quote I read ages ago said it best. “You must be fearless to be a writer.” I wish I could remember the fearless female’s name, but I can’t. The idea being that each writer has some sort of truth to tell, regardless of the manner in which they tell it. It takes guts to tell your own truth with your own voice.
We all have words to live by. Whether positive or negative, some of these words hit a chord and stick. I’ve found some wonderful mentors along the way who’ve imparted words of wisdom. My number one wise woman was my mother. She often said to me, “Nothing ventured; Nothing gained.” Yup. She was right. Well, except when great things just fall into one’s lap with absolutely no effort, but how often does that happen? It even takes faith, foresight and effort to buy a lottery ticket.
She also said people would be jealous of me all my life. Wow, that was a trip to lay on a teenager! But she was right about that too. And you can’t let jealousy stop you. Some people will be jealous of the time you spend writing. Tough noogies. Some will be jealous that you can do something they can’t. Yay you. Who knows…some people might even be jealous that you once had the guts to climb out a bathroom window to avoid a lounge lizard who thought he could charm your pants off. So what? Be fearless enough to write about it. Whatever your gift, embrace it. Be passionate about it. Write whatever you really love and take no prisoners!
Website: http://www.ashlynchase.com/
Coming April 11th to Ellora's Cave
SAHARA KELLY
Bio –
Born and raised in old England, Sahara now makes her home in New England – a delightfully symmetric circumstance, which appeals to her slightly skewed sense of humor. Married for twenty-five years to the same patient man and the mother of a son now graduating from college, Sahara reconnected with her passion for writing several years ago (her first book was published over twenty years ago, but motherhood got in the way of things for a while!). Now the author of nearly fifty titles for Ellora’s Cave, Sahara loses herself with glee in her latest work, only taking a break now and again to relax with her other love – graphic arts. She believes that everyone should have fantasies – and is well aware she’s blessed to be living her own!!!
Links –
Sahara’s website – http://www.saharakelly.com/
Partners in Passion – http://www.partnersinpassion.net/ (shared with co-writer S.L. Carpenter)
The Hussies – http://www.thehussies.us/
The Hussies Blog – http://www.thehussiesblog.blogspot.com/
Publisher – http://www.ellorascave.com/
Blurb –
Sahara’s latest release is a Medieval-set HUSSY™ novel titled FLY BY KNIGHT:
A Knight condemned to death. A Welsh woman with a quest. Is it fate that brings these two together—or the mystical touch of an ancient warrior? Aubrey Thaxton doesn’t really care, since he’s facing his imminent demise and isn’t averse to some bedsport before he burns at the stake. The strange wench who appears in his chamber is just what he needs.
Gwyneth Mor Hafren wasn’t planning on enjoying Baron Thaxton’s physical charms, however. She’s there to rescue him, driven by a knowledge given her long ago in a dream. Together these two unlikely cohorts escape Castle Thaxton and journey into what is, for Aubrey, enemy territory. Wales.
Surrounded by hostility and betrayal, Aubrey and Gwyneth discover passion amidst the turmoil, a deep and abiding emotion that binds them to each other more tightly than the strongest chains. It will save them both, complete Gwyneth’s quest and take them on a wild journey to a place where their hearts are free to “Fly By Knight”.
Excerpt – FLY BY KNIGHT (The Hussies™) Now available from Ellora’s Cave
“You’re not afraid to be here.” It was a statement more than a question, since the lad was collecting the fine garments from the pile on the bed where Aubrey had tossed them.
“No, Lord.” He pointed to a rough tunic and worn breeches. “These are for you.”
“Will they fit?” Aubrey knew his size was above that of the normal man.
“Wilfred the farmer is a big fellow.”
“That he is.” Aubrey nodded. “And he has offered up his clothing for my death? Nice of him.”
“He was suitably recompensed, I believe.”
“I’ll wager he was—“ Aubrey paused. “Mouse?”
He looked up.
“Your vocabulary is not that of a kitchen servant, you know.” Aubrey stared at the lad. There were only three tapers lit in the room and he could barely make out the figure. “Come here.”
Mouse took one step forward.
“Closer, lad.”
Obediently, Mouse took one more step toward the tub.
“You smell.” Aubrey wrinkled his nose.
“My apologies, Lord. Not many of us enjoy the luxury of a private bath.” He glanced at the objects by Aubrey’s hand. “Nor fine milled soap and soft linens for drying.”
Aubrey was truly intrigued. This Mouse, this lowly serf, was addressing him in a voice that was both cultured and educated. A surprise, to say the least of it. Perhaps there was one last mystery to be solved, one last challenge he could enjoy before the end of it all.
Mouse’s next words set the seal on Aubrey’s determination. “If you are to end your existence, Lord, may I suggest a quick cut along the length of your arm. Both of them, in fact. The blood will flow quicker.” He gave a tiny shrug. “And if you do it over the water, then there will be less for the servants to clean up on the morrow.”
Aubrey’s eyelids lowered a little, a movement that his fellow Knights would recognize as Baron Thaxton at his most dangerous. “’Tis good advice, lad. If you’d pass me that towel so I can dry off the handle of this dagger…”
Almost without thinking, Mouse moved up to the rim of the large tub and reached for the folded linen.
In a swift move, Aubrey had him by the neck, pulling him over the side of the hammered copper bath and into the water with a resounding splash. “Got you.” He felt his lips peel away from his teeth in a satisfied grin. “Now let’s see what we’ve caught, shall we?”
Mouse struggled in vain against a hold that clamped down, yet refused to give up the fight, swamping little waves of water over the side of the tub as he tried to break free.
“Stop it. I wish merely to wash off some of this filth.” Aubrey grabbed a small soapy cloth and began to scrub the slim figure one-handed. He started with the face, since getting a mouthful of bathwater was enough to quieten anybody, let alone a writhing handful of small servant.
A ripping sound indicated the end of Mouse’s threadbare tunic and Aubrey tore at it, tossing it from the tub to the stone floor where it fell with a wet plop. Suddenly, Mouse sank almost to his nose beneath the water and froze.
“For God’s sake, boy, I’m only going to wash you. You need this bath a hell of a lot more than I do.”
Heedless of his nudity, Aubrey stepped from the tub and kept a wary eye on Mouse who was now staring wide-eyed at him like some kind of strange fish. Other than eyes and nose there was nothing to be seen. Everything else was submerged beneath the milky bathwater.
A breeze stirred the flickering tapers, the summer evening air blowing in with the soft scent of newly mown grass and the slight tang of the ocean. Aubrey ignored the waiting clothing and his own bare body, letting the droplets of water cascade around him as they willed. He was determined to clean this servant, driven by some desire to accomplish one final task. If he could die in a state of physical cleanliness, then it would be good to know that at least one person watching him burn on the morrow would be clean too.
Plus there was the unanswered question about Mouse’s conversation.
Ah well. Aubrey grinned as he lathered up a cloth with plenty of soap. There was nothing like a good scrubbing to loosen the tongue. At the very moment he began to apply his rough and ready cleansing techniques, Mouse blinked at him, eyes wide, body shivering a little and making ripples in the water.
Aubrey’s hand paused and he reached forward, washing the face staring at him, rubbing the scented soap over grime and grease and then rinsing it away. He reached beneath the surface and grabbed a sharp chin, lifting it so that he could complete his job.
Even as the face tilted upward, Aubrey felt an odd prickling at the back of his neck. He stared down, rinsing away the soap and the grime.
The chamber was silent but for the slight lapping of the water in the bathtub.
Eyes of a luminous green were fixed on him, wide and betraying something that wasn’t quite fear and wasn’t quite anger. Flecks of gold flared from large black pupils and a lacy frill of black lashes framed the whole. The skin he’d cleaned was pale, dotted with a few freckles here and there. The lips were rosy and full, the mouth wide.
As knowledge crept up on Aubrey, he lathered Mouse’s hair, sweeping the heavy stuff free of dirt and bits of straw. Within moments it lay heavily in his hand, a silken mass of darkness glimmering with fire.
He rinsed and lathered and rinsed again, more and more certain of what he’d found.
Finally, he sat back on his heels and stared for long moments at the figure in the bathwater.
“Well, well. Mistress Mouse.”
The figure in the tub shook her head in denial. “You mistake, Lord.”
“I think not.” He plunged his hand into the water, making Mouse gasp aloud as he found the cord securing her breeches and tore it away, nearly dunking her completely beneath the surface as she wriggled in an effort to avoid him. He pulled them free and dropped them on the tunic. “Stand up, if you dare. Prove me wrong.” He dipped his hand back into the water, swirling the lather around soft curves and delving between thighs that clamped shut around his wrist in an effort to preserve her modesty.
She failed. Aubrey’s fingers felt soft curls, a mound of them, and beneath…the folds of flesh hiding her womanhood. He stroked once—twice—his cock hardening at what his eyes could not see but his touch recognized so well.
Sputtering, Mouse glared at him, sparks of fury shooting from her eyes. Oh no, he’d not mistaken anything at all. He had a wet and naked and very angry female in his bathtub.
Aubrey withdrew his arm and grinned. “I’m waiting.”
Bio –
Born and raised in old England, Sahara now makes her home in New England – a delightfully symmetric circumstance, which appeals to her slightly skewed sense of humor. Married for twenty-five years to the same patient man and the mother of a son now graduating from college, Sahara reconnected with her passion for writing several years ago (her first book was published over twenty years ago, but motherhood got in the way of things for a while!). Now the author of nearly fifty titles for Ellora’s Cave, Sahara loses herself with glee in her latest work, only taking a break now and again to relax with her other love – graphic arts. She believes that everyone should have fantasies – and is well aware she’s blessed to be living her own!!!
Links –
Sahara’s website – http://www.saharakelly.com/
Partners in Passion – http://www.partnersinpassion.net/ (shared with co-writer S.L. Carpenter)
The Hussies – http://www.thehussies.us/
The Hussies Blog – http://www.thehussiesblog.blogspot.com/
Publisher – http://www.ellorascave.com/
Blurb –
Sahara’s latest release is a Medieval-set HUSSY™ novel titled FLY BY KNIGHT:
A Knight condemned to death. A Welsh woman with a quest. Is it fate that brings these two together—or the mystical touch of an ancient warrior? Aubrey Thaxton doesn’t really care, since he’s facing his imminent demise and isn’t averse to some bedsport before he burns at the stake. The strange wench who appears in his chamber is just what he needs.
Gwyneth Mor Hafren wasn’t planning on enjoying Baron Thaxton’s physical charms, however. She’s there to rescue him, driven by a knowledge given her long ago in a dream. Together these two unlikely cohorts escape Castle Thaxton and journey into what is, for Aubrey, enemy territory. Wales.
Surrounded by hostility and betrayal, Aubrey and Gwyneth discover passion amidst the turmoil, a deep and abiding emotion that binds them to each other more tightly than the strongest chains. It will save them both, complete Gwyneth’s quest and take them on a wild journey to a place where their hearts are free to “Fly By Knight”.
Excerpt – FLY BY KNIGHT (The Hussies™) Now available from Ellora’s Cave
“You’re not afraid to be here.” It was a statement more than a question, since the lad was collecting the fine garments from the pile on the bed where Aubrey had tossed them.
“No, Lord.” He pointed to a rough tunic and worn breeches. “These are for you.”
“Will they fit?” Aubrey knew his size was above that of the normal man.
“Wilfred the farmer is a big fellow.”
“That he is.” Aubrey nodded. “And he has offered up his clothing for my death? Nice of him.”
“He was suitably recompensed, I believe.”
“I’ll wager he was—“ Aubrey paused. “Mouse?”
He looked up.
“Your vocabulary is not that of a kitchen servant, you know.” Aubrey stared at the lad. There were only three tapers lit in the room and he could barely make out the figure. “Come here.”
Mouse took one step forward.
“Closer, lad.”
Obediently, Mouse took one more step toward the tub.
“You smell.” Aubrey wrinkled his nose.
“My apologies, Lord. Not many of us enjoy the luxury of a private bath.” He glanced at the objects by Aubrey’s hand. “Nor fine milled soap and soft linens for drying.”
Aubrey was truly intrigued. This Mouse, this lowly serf, was addressing him in a voice that was both cultured and educated. A surprise, to say the least of it. Perhaps there was one last mystery to be solved, one last challenge he could enjoy before the end of it all.
Mouse’s next words set the seal on Aubrey’s determination. “If you are to end your existence, Lord, may I suggest a quick cut along the length of your arm. Both of them, in fact. The blood will flow quicker.” He gave a tiny shrug. “And if you do it over the water, then there will be less for the servants to clean up on the morrow.”
Aubrey’s eyelids lowered a little, a movement that his fellow Knights would recognize as Baron Thaxton at his most dangerous. “’Tis good advice, lad. If you’d pass me that towel so I can dry off the handle of this dagger…”
Almost without thinking, Mouse moved up to the rim of the large tub and reached for the folded linen.
In a swift move, Aubrey had him by the neck, pulling him over the side of the hammered copper bath and into the water with a resounding splash. “Got you.” He felt his lips peel away from his teeth in a satisfied grin. “Now let’s see what we’ve caught, shall we?”
Mouse struggled in vain against a hold that clamped down, yet refused to give up the fight, swamping little waves of water over the side of the tub as he tried to break free.
“Stop it. I wish merely to wash off some of this filth.” Aubrey grabbed a small soapy cloth and began to scrub the slim figure one-handed. He started with the face, since getting a mouthful of bathwater was enough to quieten anybody, let alone a writhing handful of small servant.
A ripping sound indicated the end of Mouse’s threadbare tunic and Aubrey tore at it, tossing it from the tub to the stone floor where it fell with a wet plop. Suddenly, Mouse sank almost to his nose beneath the water and froze.
“For God’s sake, boy, I’m only going to wash you. You need this bath a hell of a lot more than I do.”
Heedless of his nudity, Aubrey stepped from the tub and kept a wary eye on Mouse who was now staring wide-eyed at him like some kind of strange fish. Other than eyes and nose there was nothing to be seen. Everything else was submerged beneath the milky bathwater.
A breeze stirred the flickering tapers, the summer evening air blowing in with the soft scent of newly mown grass and the slight tang of the ocean. Aubrey ignored the waiting clothing and his own bare body, letting the droplets of water cascade around him as they willed. He was determined to clean this servant, driven by some desire to accomplish one final task. If he could die in a state of physical cleanliness, then it would be good to know that at least one person watching him burn on the morrow would be clean too.
Plus there was the unanswered question about Mouse’s conversation.
Ah well. Aubrey grinned as he lathered up a cloth with plenty of soap. There was nothing like a good scrubbing to loosen the tongue. At the very moment he began to apply his rough and ready cleansing techniques, Mouse blinked at him, eyes wide, body shivering a little and making ripples in the water.
Aubrey’s hand paused and he reached forward, washing the face staring at him, rubbing the scented soap over grime and grease and then rinsing it away. He reached beneath the surface and grabbed a sharp chin, lifting it so that he could complete his job.
Even as the face tilted upward, Aubrey felt an odd prickling at the back of his neck. He stared down, rinsing away the soap and the grime.
The chamber was silent but for the slight lapping of the water in the bathtub.
Eyes of a luminous green were fixed on him, wide and betraying something that wasn’t quite fear and wasn’t quite anger. Flecks of gold flared from large black pupils and a lacy frill of black lashes framed the whole. The skin he’d cleaned was pale, dotted with a few freckles here and there. The lips were rosy and full, the mouth wide.
As knowledge crept up on Aubrey, he lathered Mouse’s hair, sweeping the heavy stuff free of dirt and bits of straw. Within moments it lay heavily in his hand, a silken mass of darkness glimmering with fire.
He rinsed and lathered and rinsed again, more and more certain of what he’d found.
Finally, he sat back on his heels and stared for long moments at the figure in the bathwater.
“Well, well. Mistress Mouse.”
The figure in the tub shook her head in denial. “You mistake, Lord.”
“I think not.” He plunged his hand into the water, making Mouse gasp aloud as he found the cord securing her breeches and tore it away, nearly dunking her completely beneath the surface as she wriggled in an effort to avoid him. He pulled them free and dropped them on the tunic. “Stand up, if you dare. Prove me wrong.” He dipped his hand back into the water, swirling the lather around soft curves and delving between thighs that clamped shut around his wrist in an effort to preserve her modesty.
She failed. Aubrey’s fingers felt soft curls, a mound of them, and beneath…the folds of flesh hiding her womanhood. He stroked once—twice—his cock hardening at what his eyes could not see but his touch recognized so well.
Sputtering, Mouse glared at him, sparks of fury shooting from her eyes. Oh no, he’d not mistaken anything at all. He had a wet and naked and very angry female in his bathtub.
Aubrey withdrew his arm and grinned. “I’m waiting.”
Quick Note:
Sorry there was no Friday Flash, had to play catch up due to problems with my Word Program. But it's up and running now and I'll being doing a long Friday Flash for this Friday. In the meantime please enjoy the Author Spotlight.
Selena
Authors Spotlight:
Bio:
Liz Andrews is a critically acclaimed, multi-published author who enjoys writing erotic romance almost as much as she enjoys reading it. A romantic at heart, Liz is a fierce believer in happily ever after and heroes who make the heart swoon. When not writing, the Ohio native enjoys reading, going to the movies and hosting dinner parties for her friends. You are welcome to email her at msliz@lizandrews.net.
Wounded Hearts
By Liz Andrews
Available in e-book from Loose Id
Blurb
Erin Riley receives a "Dear Jane" letter just days before her fiancé is due home after two years away on active duty. Angry at first, she convinces herself it must be because she's overweight while he's become a honed military hunk. Determined to convince him he's just forgotten what he was missing on the home front, she screws up her courage and sets out to seduce him despite her own misgivings about her figure. But she's surprised to discover Patrick is a changed man. No longer her loving high school sweetheart, he's harder and she discovers he has a dark side. Although he succumbs to her lush charms, he remains adamant their engagement should remain broken. Fortunately, Erin isn't someone who gives up easily.
Patrick O'Rourke has seen a lot during his two years away. After a tragic incident, he's convinced he's no good for anyone, especially his innocent young fiancée. He's not the same man he was two years ago and he doesn't want to defile Erin with his needs and desires. But from the moment he walks through the door, she makes it perfectly clear she's not going anywhere and she's unwilling to surrender without a fight. He tries to scare her away, allowing the dark side of his personality to take over. Instead of running away, however, Erin embraces the new experiences he offers.
Good communication and some hot, unconventional sex - that's what it takes to heal two wounded hearts.
Excerpt
Patrick stood and walked toward the bedroom, telling himself he only wanted to check on her well-being. He stopped for a moment at the door. Allowing his eyes to adjust to the darkness, he had no trouble seeing Erin curled up asleep in his bed. She’d kicked the covers off and the short nightgown she had on last night was rucked up her legs, exposing her full pale hips to his hot gaze. The tiny matching string bikini she wore barely covered her. Her hands were tucked under her head and with the moon shining into the room he was sure he saw the tracks of tears dried on her face.
Just as he was telling himself to do the right thing and leave her alone, Erin turned onto her back. The material of her nightgown strained across her chest, while her bountiful breasts practically spilled out of the confines. She must have sensed his presence in the room, because she blinked and slowly opened her eyes.
It had been two years since they’d been together and real life was better than fantasy any day. His own hand was no substitute for the lusciousness in front of him. He knew what he should do, what he had to do, but his body and heart were telling him something completely different. This was his woman.
“If you don’t get your ass out of my bed in the next twenty seconds you’re going to find yourself fucked and fucked hard.” His cock straining against his zipper was telling him to take what was presented. Patrick was certain she’d run at his threat, but she remained silent, just staring at him while he continued to gaze at the succulent offering in his bed.
Patrick loosened his pants and pushed them down over his hips. He stood naked before her, his cock standing in anticipation. Without a word, Erin opened her arms. He walked over and joined her on the bed.
“This is only sex.” He wanted to push her away but he couldn’t resist the call of her charms.
“Keep telling yourself that.” Erin reached out and grasped his cock, her soft warm hands stroking him.
Patrick groaned at her touch. He had to keep his head, if only for another minute. “You understand it doesn’t change anything, right?”
“Stop talking and come love me.” Erin released his cock and tugged him down to her.
He wanted to deny her words, but he couldn’t lie to himself as easily as he’d been lying to her. He still loved Erin and couldn’t imagine a time when he wouldn’t. Pushing back those thoughts, he rolled over pinning her to the bed.
Patrick began to kiss her jaw line, moving down to her neck. As he nibbled around her collarbone she shivered in response. Sitting up for a moment he reached down and pulled off the gauzy gown, exposing her more fully to his gaze. Her nipples immediately puckered, whether from the cool air or his stare, he wasn’t sure.
Erin was breathing heavily, causing her chest to rise and fall with every inhalation. Cupping a breast in his hand he massaged the ample flesh. He sucked her nipple into his mouth, biting and teasing it till it was rock hard. Turning to her other breast he took her nipple between his fingers and pinched it hard.
“So good,” Erin moaned softly, undulating under his rough touch.
He’d never been rough with her before, always treating her with respect and gentleness. The sight of her reaction sent him into overdrive. Releasing her arms Patrick traveled down her body, biting and kissing until he reached the apex at her thighs. He hooked his fingers in the string of her damp panties and pulled them off. Erin arched her body against him, silently begging for more attention.
“Tell me what you want.” He wanted to hear her say it, something she’d never been willing to do before. Erin had been a virgin the first time they’d made love and he hadn’t had much more experience. Although he often prompted her to talk about what she liked, she’d been shy to express herself in the bedroom.
“Inside,” she gasped. “I want you inside me.”
Patrick was surprised at her response and pleased at the same time.
“Like this?” His fingers slipped inside her, testing the depth of her arousal. She soaked his hand as she twisted her hips and dug her heels into the bed.
“More.” Erin was moaning as Patrick petted and teased her, pinching her clit before thrusting his fingers back and forth. Erin responded to his every touch, grabbing his hand and trapping it between her legs.
“No you don’t.” He pulled his hand back as she gasped, obviously intent on obtaining her orgasm.
Pushing her legs up, Patrick began nibbling at her knee, making his way along her inner thigh. As he reached her pussy he could smell the evidence of her arousal and see the glistening dew. Without touching her there, he gently blew, causing a sharp intake of breath from Erin. Chuckling, he switched to the other leg, licking back up her thigh to her knee.
“Stop teasing me.”
Hankie Pankie
By Liz Andrews
Available in e-book from Ellora’s Cave
Blurb
When Amie Taggert discovers an invitation for a BDSM Halloween party on her boyfriend's computer, she's concerned he's unsatisfied with their relationship. Wanting to show him she's willing to try anything once, Amie signs them up. Imagine her surprise when she discovers he's clueless about the event.
Eric Hammond wonders if this is Amie's way of saying she's interested in spicing up their love life. He's more than willing to be adventuresome in the bedroom.
If the exotic rooms at the club are any indication, Halloween will be a night of hankie pankie neither will forget.
Excerpt
“So you want to tell me where we are and what we’re doing here?”
Amie blinked up at Eric, unwilling to admit what a colossal fool she’d been. Either he had no idea what was going on or she’d blundered into something he didn’t want to reveal to her. Nevertheless, perhaps she could salvage some of her pride and get them out of there before this went any further. “Um, this was a huge mistake. Let’s just go.”
The large doors swung open revealing a woman dressed in a leather corset and skintight black pants. She looked like Halle Berry in Catwoman. “Welcome to the Hankie Pankie Halloween Event.” She handed them a small plastic jack-o’-lantern and then sweeping her hands wide, ushered them into the foyer. “Personal Items can be left in the room off to your right and you are welcome to begin exploring any and all rooms. This is a night to make your fantasies come true.”
Eric raised his eyebrows slightly but said nothing. Instead, he grasped her hand and tugged her into the coatroom. Fishing around in the jack-o’-lantern, Eric chuckled and Amie’s eyes widened as he pulled out a strip of condoms, waving them in front of her face. “I think there must be a story here.”
“Do you really have no idea what the party is?” Amie could hear her voice crack as she spoke. The embarrassment of having to explain this was beyond her worst nightmare.
“None, but I’m really interested in why we need condoms and,” poking around the plastic pumpkin he pulled out a small bottle, “lickable strawberry lube to make our fantasies come true.”
Burying her face in her hands, Amie took a couple of deep breaths. “It’s a fetish party.”
“A what?”
She’d have to face him sometime and there was no time like the present. Raising her head, Amie stared at Eric’s shocked expression. “A fetish party. You know, bondage and domination and…stuff.”
“Stuff?”
“I told you this was a mistake. Can we please just go?” Amie tugged on his hand but Eric wasn’t budging. In fact, his previous shock had turned to speculation.
“I didn’t know you were into this.”
“I’m not. I thought you were.” It was a good thing the coatroom was dim since Amie knew her face must be flaming at this point.
“Why would you think I was into dominance and bondage?”
“I found the website for this party on your computer. What else was I supposed to think?” It was something Amie had thought little else of the past two weeks. Their sex life, although satisfying, had no kinky elements. She’d been happy, although even she had to admit some of the spark had gone out of their encounters.
“My computer?”
“Yes, your computer. Do you remember when I asked to use it last week?” At Eric’s nod, she continued. “I was going to look up haunted houses, but when I started to type, the website for this party popped up.”
“And you thought I was planning for us to attend?”
“I wasn’t sure what I thought at first. Shock mostly, I guess. I couldn’t believe you were into this stuff.” After finding the website, Amie had begun to wonder if Eric was looking for someone to fulfill some hidden need of his. Amie loved Eric and she was determined to be that someone.
“I’m not.” Eric’s insistence rang true.
“Well, I didn’t know that. But when I explored the site and saw there was a party coming up, I thought maybe we could check it out together.”
Veterans: Through the Fire
By Liz Andrews
Available in e-book from Loose Id
Coming Soon in print form
Blurb
Baldwin Garrett should consider himself a lucky man. After surviving a tour in Iraq he's finally home. But instead, he's riddled with guilt and despair. As a young man he spurned his parents' wealth, looking down on their power and influence. Now as an injured Vet he has accepted their help to get the best possible medical care available--an option that wasn't available to his comrades in arms. His guilt has overpowered him to the point he's pushing everyone away.
Kena Rutherford was hired by Baldwin's mother to open his house. She unwisely decides to skinny-dip in the pool, only to be discovered by Baldwin when he arrives home unexpectedly early. Although he's a bit surly, she's intrigued by this man who seemingly has everything, but is despondent about his life. She doesn't let their boss/employee relationship get in the way of her speaking her mind.
Baldwin finds Kena's sassy disposition and sharp words arouse his desire like no other woman he's ever met. Can she pull him through the fire of his despair and make him see how blessed he truly is?
Excerpt
Baldwin dove into the pool and let the cool water wash over him. He took out his pent-up frustration, cutting through the clear blue liquid with brusque even strokes. The physical activity meant to relax him was having the opposite effect, however, and his mind raced with thoughts of Kena and how things had ended yesterday.
He was a fucking idiot. He should have never let her leave. If he had the chance to do it all again, he would have taken what she’d offered. His one moment of chivalry had left him aching. Thanks to her, he’d tossed and turned all night, finally having to take matters into his own hands, literally. The lackluster experience had left him physically sated, but only briefly.
Unfortunately his dissatisfaction returned tenfold when he awoke this morning. His attempts to distract himself had been fruitless. Even the crisp water did nothing to ease his throbbing cock. He needed to get laid but appeasing his hunger was no simple matter. The idea of being with anyone other than Kena was as unappealing as Gloria had been yesterday.
The only relief from his frustration had been the constant pain in his leg. He’d purposely left his usual swim until dusk, hoping the exercise would tire him out to the point where he would be too exhausted to do anything but sleep tonight. Regrettably it hadn’t yet worked. Deciding to take a break, Baldwin stopped and reached out to grab the bottle of water he’d left at the end of the pool, but came up empty.
“Is this what you’re looking for?”
Wiping the water off his face, he looked up to see Kena sitting on a lounger next to the pool with the aforementioned water bottle. The sight of the cause of his ongoing frustration was both stimulating as well as disconcerting.
Unlike the last two times he’d seen her, she was wearing makeup. Not a lot, but just enough to accentuate her high cheekbones. Her full lips were shining in the fading sunset, begging to be kissed. She was wearing a pink tank top and patterned skirt that ended at her knees, showcasing her long, lean legs.
Rather than show his pleasure at her presence, he held out his hand, requesting the water. “If you don’t mind.”
As she walked to the edge of the pool, she pursed her lips in obvious annoyance. Leaning down, she handed him the bottle. “I thought maybe we could talk.”
Did she now. He unscrewed the cap and took a long swallow before asking, “About?”
Baldwin knew he was being difficult, but he wanted to see where she was going to take this. Besides, the longer she stood there the more opportunity he had to stare at her legs. The view had him hard and wanting her all over again.
“Are you looking up my skirt?” Kena’s accusatory tone had him dragging his glance from her alluring charms to her face, which was marred by a frown. He liked her much better when she was smiling.
“What do you expect, darling? When you present the gift in such an enticing package, you can’t expect a man not to look.”
She rolled her eyes, but the frown faded to be replaced with a Mona Lisa smile. “It wasn’t an invitation.”
“It certainly seemed that way to me.” He noticed she had stepped back, but otherwise had done nothing to dissuade him other than acting affronted, which he believed was just that, an act.
“Look, I came over here to apologize for my actions yesterday.”
Baldwin’s brow furrowed in displeasure. Great. While he’d been obsessed with thoughts of her, she’d been regretting their experience. He began to wonder if it had just been a pity kiss, one designed to let him feel like a man again, since she’d called a halt to things when it had gotten a little too intense.
“Okay, I don’t know what that look is, but I think you’re getting the wrong idea.”
“Really? What idea might that be?” Baldwin could feel his ire rising and tried to tamp down his irritation.
“I’m not really sure, but I’m sorry I was baiting you yesterday. That wasn’t my intention.”
“What was your intention then?”
“Hell, I don’t know anymore. Sometimes I speak without thinking. I guess I was trying to get a rise out of you.”
She’d certainly accomplished her goal, although probably not in the way she’d intended.
“So let me get this straight. You’re apologizing for the disagreement?”
“Yes, of course. Wait a minute. What did you think I was apologizing for?”
“The disagreement.”
“No, no, you thought I was apologizing for something to do with the kiss, didn’t you?”
“Not at all.” Although he’d been caught in the lie, it was kind of amusing to see her getting worked up over the issue. She stepped forward again, standing just at the edge of the pool. Her hands were now on her hips and her legs braced and ready for a fight, which only allowed him a better view up her skirt.
“Damn it, are you looking up my skirt again?” Kena gathered the material around her like a shield and bent down until she was almost at face level with him. “You are such a pervert.”
“You’re easily riled.”
“I am not. I just don’t understand how we can be having a serious conversation and the entire time you’re more concerned about looking up my skirt.”
He chuckled at her naivety. The reason was so obvious it hardly deserved an answer, but since she asked, “Because I’m a man?”
“You’re infuriating is what you are.”
“And you need to cool off.” Reaching up, he grasped her upper arms and tugged, pulling her into the pool. He could see her eyes go wide with the realization of what was to come just as she hit the water. He moved toward the shallow end of the pool as she came up sputtering and wiping her wet hair out of her face.
“You. Are. A. Dead. Man.”
Each word was enunciated distinctly. But instead of worry, Baldwin was too interested in noticing what the water had exposed. Her pink tank top was plastered to her skin and it was obvious she wasn’t wearing a bra. Her nipples were puckered and poking through the damp material.
“Did you hear me? Dead. Man. Do you know how long it’s going to take to flat iron my hair again?”
“Why would I know that?”
“Better question, why would you pull me into the pool? Something is seriously wrong with you.”
“You think so.” The madder she became, the harder he grew. Something was definitely wrong with him all right, because her fiery temper turned him on.
“I know so.” She moved through the water until she was standing right in front of him. Her dark eyes were flashing with anger and her black hair lay like strands of seaweed. She was the epitome of a drowned rat, but it didn’t detract from her beauty. He was beginning to believe nothing could.
“You’re an insufferable ass. I’m going to kill you.”
“But first you’re going to kiss me.”
He reached out and pulled her forcefully into his arms. Surprisingly she came willingly, grasping at his shoulders. Leaning down he captured her lips. She moaned and wrapped her arms around his neck as he slipped his tongue into her mouth.
The taste of Kena was as good as he’d remembered, hot and spicy with just a hint of sugar. Her tongue dueled with his as they kissed. Baldwin grasped her hips, bunching the material of her skirt in his hands. All he could think about was getting her out of her wet clothes so he could have access to her delectable skin.
With a quick yank he pulled the skirt over her hips and down past her thighs. She cooperated quite nicely by kicking her feet a few times, sending the skirt floating away. He broke their kiss and began nibbling down her neck, gently biting and then soothing her with a swipe of his tongue. At the same time she began to do some exploring of her own. Her free hand stroked down between them to touch his cock.
At the first touch of her hand, Baldwin moaned and thrust his hips in reaction, pressing his cock toward her questing fingers. He grasped the edge of her tank top and swiftly pulled it off, exposing her breasts to his gaze. The tips were like two dark brown berries, ones he was dying to taste. Taking advantage of the bountiful offering, he captured one of her turgid nipples in his mouth.
“Oh hell, yes.”
Sugar and Spice
By Liz Andrews
Available in e-book from Loose Id
Blurb
Rayne Jankowski is the middle sister in a family of psychics. The problem is, she the only one without powers. Or so she believes.
Unbeknownst to the customers at her health food café and Rayne herself, there's something extra in her muffins, and it isn't just sugar and spice. It's her will. Rayne is unknowingly infusing her power of persuasion into these baked goods. People come in with problems and walk out with solutions...of the mystical kind that is.
Unfortunately for her, her longtime crush Scott Marsten is also partaking of her psychic desserts, which now leaves her to wonder if he asked her out because he's drawn to her or because she mistakenly slipped him a mojo mickey.
For the life of him, Scott can't figure out why Rayne is suddenly pushing him away. Now that he's finally had a taste of the plus-size beauty, he isn't willing to just walk away. Scott believes in psychic powers almost as much as he believes in tooth fairies. He knows what he feels for Rayne is real; now if he could only convince the stubborn beauty of that.
Sugar and spice is nice...but true love is magical.
Excerpt
As they climbed the stairs to her apartment, Rayne was eager and filled with anticipation. Their bantering tonight had been fun, especially knowing their connection existed outside the confines of early mornings in the café. During the concert she had felt so comfortable in his arms. When he had taken the initiative to kiss her, she knew she was ready for their relationship to go further.
She had kissed many men in her life, but never had any of them affected her like he had. His lips on hers had sent an electric charge through her body. The rest of the audience had melted away. Her focus was centered totally on him and the feelings he was evoking. She wouldn’t have quibbled a bit if he had stripped her bare right then and there.
As she wrestled with the key to her apartment, she wondered where tonight might take them. Would he be a generous lover? Was he passionate in bed? Would he…
“Change your mind?”
Sheepishly, Rayne glanced up at Scott, embarrassed she had been caught fantasizing about their first time together instead of actually opening the door so they could live it out. Not wanting him to get the wrong idea and leave, she smiled and shook her head. “Nope, not at all.” With a renewed vigor, she unlocked the door to her apartment and ushered him inside.
Nervously, she turned on the light and shut the door, giving herself a few more minutes to gather her wits. After locking the deadbolt, she turned to face him. Instead of getting undressed like she’d hope, he was standing in the middle of the room, with hands in his pockets, looking around. “Nice place.”
“Thanks.” She tried to perceive the room from a stranger’s point of view. There was a faint smell of yeast and cinnamon from the bakery that permeated the room. The walls were painted a warm yellow and decorated with accents of red. Her furniture was all dark woods, but the room was large enough to handle the bold colors. Thankfully, her landlord allowed her to paint, because the sterile white walls would have sent her into a depression after two weeks.
“So what can you tell from my decorating?” Rayne took off her jacket, dropped it onto the floor, and walked purposely toward him.
“You’re very close to your family.”
“You already knew that.”
Scott flopped onto the extra wide chair and pulled her down onto his lap. “True, but if I didn’t, this room would have told me in a heartbeat.”
Looking around, she could see why he said that. She had pictures of her family everywhere. They were especially prominent across the mantel of her fireplace. She loved the older photos most of all, the slightly wrinkled sepia-toned ones of her great-grandparents. But thoughts of her family weren’t what interested her right now. She was more fascinated with the hardness she felt under her ass.
“Scott, don’t take this the wrong way, okay?”
“Okay…”
“But I don’t want to talk about my family anymore tonight.”
“Then what do you want to talk about?”
“That’s just it.” She lowered her gaze coyly. “I don’t want to talk.”
Slowly, she began to slip the buttons from their holes on his shirt, exposing his chest to her hungry gaze. She’d seen him covered in a tight T-shirt, but never bare-chested. It was a sight to behold. She spread his shirt and ran her hands over his chiseled torso. How this handsome man was interested in her was beyond her scope of understanding, but she wasn’t about to question her good fortune.
While she concentrated on her discovery, Scott’s hand had crept beneath her skirt and was now resting on her thigh. The feel of his callused palm on her soft flesh made her want to experience more. She leaned forward to kiss him.
The moment her lips touched his, his hand tightened on her leg as he explored her mouth. He urged her off his lap for a moment, only to turn her slightly before pulling her back down. This time, however, he spread her legs wide until she was straddling him. The apex of her thighs was now aligned with his cock, which was straining against his zipper.
His hands delved beneath her T-shirt, and he quickly had her bra unhooked. Not bothering to remove the garment, he pushed it up and out of the way. Rayne’s eyes closed as the sensations rushed over her. He cupped her breasts and kneaded the soft flesh as his thumbs brushed over her hardening nipples.
“Hmm, that feels so good.”
“Do you like this?” He pinched her nipples, bringing them to tight peaks.
Shivers of delight coursed along her body, and she could barely speak. “Ahh…yes, I like.”
He chuckled as he continued to tease and torment her sensitive nubs. She could feel the pull all the way to her pussy, and she shifted restlessly on him.
“Stop moving.”
“I can’t help it.” His touch had her pleasure centers whirling out of control. She wanted it all and she wanted it now.
“Lift your arms for me.”
She obeyed him immediately, and, he pulled her T-shirt off and then quickly divested her of the bra as well. Although she’d allowed him to disrobe her, she felt vulnerable sitting there topless while he was completely clothed. Especially when her plus-sized body was in full view. She crossed her arms over her chest and stomach, trying to camouflage what she didn’t want him to notice. Fortunately, he quickly quelled her doubts.
“None of that now.” He pulled her arms wide and leaned forward to capture one of the turgid peaks in his mouth, nibbling at the swollen tip before lathing it with his tongue. He released her arms, and her hands grasped at his shoulders. The solid feel of his cock beneath her had her rocking her now-aching pussy against him.
Rayne never heard the front door opening, but she was startled by the sound of her brother calling her name.
“Rainbow baby, what’s the…oh shit, sorry.”
“What the fuck?” Scott erupted in indignation.
“Oh my God.” This was a nightmare. How in the world did she forget her brother was staying with her? It wasn’t as if she was prudish when it came to nudity; she’d grown up on a commune for Pete’s sakes. But dancing around naked as a kid and getting caught by her brother while going to second base were two different things.
Rayne valiantly attempted to cover herself as Scott struggled to assist her and stand at the same time. It was a futile effort at best. “Who the hell are you?”
“Hey man, I’m sorry.” Forrest stood across the room, his back to them both as he shifted from foot to foot. “I’m Forrest, the older brother.”
Sorry there was no Friday Flash, had to play catch up due to problems with my Word Program. But it's up and running now and I'll being doing a long Friday Flash for this Friday. In the meantime please enjoy the Author Spotlight.
Selena
Authors Spotlight:
Bio:
Liz Andrews is a critically acclaimed, multi-published author who enjoys writing erotic romance almost as much as she enjoys reading it. A romantic at heart, Liz is a fierce believer in happily ever after and heroes who make the heart swoon. When not writing, the Ohio native enjoys reading, going to the movies and hosting dinner parties for her friends. You are welcome to email her at msliz@lizandrews.net.
Wounded Hearts
By Liz Andrews
Available in e-book from Loose Id
Blurb
Erin Riley receives a "Dear Jane" letter just days before her fiancé is due home after two years away on active duty. Angry at first, she convinces herself it must be because she's overweight while he's become a honed military hunk. Determined to convince him he's just forgotten what he was missing on the home front, she screws up her courage and sets out to seduce him despite her own misgivings about her figure. But she's surprised to discover Patrick is a changed man. No longer her loving high school sweetheart, he's harder and she discovers he has a dark side. Although he succumbs to her lush charms, he remains adamant their engagement should remain broken. Fortunately, Erin isn't someone who gives up easily.
Patrick O'Rourke has seen a lot during his two years away. After a tragic incident, he's convinced he's no good for anyone, especially his innocent young fiancée. He's not the same man he was two years ago and he doesn't want to defile Erin with his needs and desires. But from the moment he walks through the door, she makes it perfectly clear she's not going anywhere and she's unwilling to surrender without a fight. He tries to scare her away, allowing the dark side of his personality to take over. Instead of running away, however, Erin embraces the new experiences he offers.
Good communication and some hot, unconventional sex - that's what it takes to heal two wounded hearts.
Excerpt
Patrick stood and walked toward the bedroom, telling himself he only wanted to check on her well-being. He stopped for a moment at the door. Allowing his eyes to adjust to the darkness, he had no trouble seeing Erin curled up asleep in his bed. She’d kicked the covers off and the short nightgown she had on last night was rucked up her legs, exposing her full pale hips to his hot gaze. The tiny matching string bikini she wore barely covered her. Her hands were tucked under her head and with the moon shining into the room he was sure he saw the tracks of tears dried on her face.
Just as he was telling himself to do the right thing and leave her alone, Erin turned onto her back. The material of her nightgown strained across her chest, while her bountiful breasts practically spilled out of the confines. She must have sensed his presence in the room, because she blinked and slowly opened her eyes.
It had been two years since they’d been together and real life was better than fantasy any day. His own hand was no substitute for the lusciousness in front of him. He knew what he should do, what he had to do, but his body and heart were telling him something completely different. This was his woman.
“If you don’t get your ass out of my bed in the next twenty seconds you’re going to find yourself fucked and fucked hard.” His cock straining against his zipper was telling him to take what was presented. Patrick was certain she’d run at his threat, but she remained silent, just staring at him while he continued to gaze at the succulent offering in his bed.
Patrick loosened his pants and pushed them down over his hips. He stood naked before her, his cock standing in anticipation. Without a word, Erin opened her arms. He walked over and joined her on the bed.
“This is only sex.” He wanted to push her away but he couldn’t resist the call of her charms.
“Keep telling yourself that.” Erin reached out and grasped his cock, her soft warm hands stroking him.
Patrick groaned at her touch. He had to keep his head, if only for another minute. “You understand it doesn’t change anything, right?”
“Stop talking and come love me.” Erin released his cock and tugged him down to her.
He wanted to deny her words, but he couldn’t lie to himself as easily as he’d been lying to her. He still loved Erin and couldn’t imagine a time when he wouldn’t. Pushing back those thoughts, he rolled over pinning her to the bed.
Patrick began to kiss her jaw line, moving down to her neck. As he nibbled around her collarbone she shivered in response. Sitting up for a moment he reached down and pulled off the gauzy gown, exposing her more fully to his gaze. Her nipples immediately puckered, whether from the cool air or his stare, he wasn’t sure.
Erin was breathing heavily, causing her chest to rise and fall with every inhalation. Cupping a breast in his hand he massaged the ample flesh. He sucked her nipple into his mouth, biting and teasing it till it was rock hard. Turning to her other breast he took her nipple between his fingers and pinched it hard.
“So good,” Erin moaned softly, undulating under his rough touch.
He’d never been rough with her before, always treating her with respect and gentleness. The sight of her reaction sent him into overdrive. Releasing her arms Patrick traveled down her body, biting and kissing until he reached the apex at her thighs. He hooked his fingers in the string of her damp panties and pulled them off. Erin arched her body against him, silently begging for more attention.
“Tell me what you want.” He wanted to hear her say it, something she’d never been willing to do before. Erin had been a virgin the first time they’d made love and he hadn’t had much more experience. Although he often prompted her to talk about what she liked, she’d been shy to express herself in the bedroom.
“Inside,” she gasped. “I want you inside me.”
Patrick was surprised at her response and pleased at the same time.
“Like this?” His fingers slipped inside her, testing the depth of her arousal. She soaked his hand as she twisted her hips and dug her heels into the bed.
“More.” Erin was moaning as Patrick petted and teased her, pinching her clit before thrusting his fingers back and forth. Erin responded to his every touch, grabbing his hand and trapping it between her legs.
“No you don’t.” He pulled his hand back as she gasped, obviously intent on obtaining her orgasm.
Pushing her legs up, Patrick began nibbling at her knee, making his way along her inner thigh. As he reached her pussy he could smell the evidence of her arousal and see the glistening dew. Without touching her there, he gently blew, causing a sharp intake of breath from Erin. Chuckling, he switched to the other leg, licking back up her thigh to her knee.
“Stop teasing me.”
Hankie Pankie
By Liz Andrews
Available in e-book from Ellora’s Cave
Blurb
When Amie Taggert discovers an invitation for a BDSM Halloween party on her boyfriend's computer, she's concerned he's unsatisfied with their relationship. Wanting to show him she's willing to try anything once, Amie signs them up. Imagine her surprise when she discovers he's clueless about the event.
Eric Hammond wonders if this is Amie's way of saying she's interested in spicing up their love life. He's more than willing to be adventuresome in the bedroom.
If the exotic rooms at the club are any indication, Halloween will be a night of hankie pankie neither will forget.
Excerpt
“So you want to tell me where we are and what we’re doing here?”
Amie blinked up at Eric, unwilling to admit what a colossal fool she’d been. Either he had no idea what was going on or she’d blundered into something he didn’t want to reveal to her. Nevertheless, perhaps she could salvage some of her pride and get them out of there before this went any further. “Um, this was a huge mistake. Let’s just go.”
The large doors swung open revealing a woman dressed in a leather corset and skintight black pants. She looked like Halle Berry in Catwoman. “Welcome to the Hankie Pankie Halloween Event.” She handed them a small plastic jack-o’-lantern and then sweeping her hands wide, ushered them into the foyer. “Personal Items can be left in the room off to your right and you are welcome to begin exploring any and all rooms. This is a night to make your fantasies come true.”
Eric raised his eyebrows slightly but said nothing. Instead, he grasped her hand and tugged her into the coatroom. Fishing around in the jack-o’-lantern, Eric chuckled and Amie’s eyes widened as he pulled out a strip of condoms, waving them in front of her face. “I think there must be a story here.”
“Do you really have no idea what the party is?” Amie could hear her voice crack as she spoke. The embarrassment of having to explain this was beyond her worst nightmare.
“None, but I’m really interested in why we need condoms and,” poking around the plastic pumpkin he pulled out a small bottle, “lickable strawberry lube to make our fantasies come true.”
Burying her face in her hands, Amie took a couple of deep breaths. “It’s a fetish party.”
“A what?”
She’d have to face him sometime and there was no time like the present. Raising her head, Amie stared at Eric’s shocked expression. “A fetish party. You know, bondage and domination and…stuff.”
“Stuff?”
“I told you this was a mistake. Can we please just go?” Amie tugged on his hand but Eric wasn’t budging. In fact, his previous shock had turned to speculation.
“I didn’t know you were into this.”
“I’m not. I thought you were.” It was a good thing the coatroom was dim since Amie knew her face must be flaming at this point.
“Why would you think I was into dominance and bondage?”
“I found the website for this party on your computer. What else was I supposed to think?” It was something Amie had thought little else of the past two weeks. Their sex life, although satisfying, had no kinky elements. She’d been happy, although even she had to admit some of the spark had gone out of their encounters.
“My computer?”
“Yes, your computer. Do you remember when I asked to use it last week?” At Eric’s nod, she continued. “I was going to look up haunted houses, but when I started to type, the website for this party popped up.”
“And you thought I was planning for us to attend?”
“I wasn’t sure what I thought at first. Shock mostly, I guess. I couldn’t believe you were into this stuff.” After finding the website, Amie had begun to wonder if Eric was looking for someone to fulfill some hidden need of his. Amie loved Eric and she was determined to be that someone.
“I’m not.” Eric’s insistence rang true.
“Well, I didn’t know that. But when I explored the site and saw there was a party coming up, I thought maybe we could check it out together.”
Veterans: Through the Fire
By Liz Andrews
Available in e-book from Loose Id
Coming Soon in print form
Blurb
Baldwin Garrett should consider himself a lucky man. After surviving a tour in Iraq he's finally home. But instead, he's riddled with guilt and despair. As a young man he spurned his parents' wealth, looking down on their power and influence. Now as an injured Vet he has accepted their help to get the best possible medical care available--an option that wasn't available to his comrades in arms. His guilt has overpowered him to the point he's pushing everyone away.
Kena Rutherford was hired by Baldwin's mother to open his house. She unwisely decides to skinny-dip in the pool, only to be discovered by Baldwin when he arrives home unexpectedly early. Although he's a bit surly, she's intrigued by this man who seemingly has everything, but is despondent about his life. She doesn't let their boss/employee relationship get in the way of her speaking her mind.
Baldwin finds Kena's sassy disposition and sharp words arouse his desire like no other woman he's ever met. Can she pull him through the fire of his despair and make him see how blessed he truly is?
Excerpt
Baldwin dove into the pool and let the cool water wash over him. He took out his pent-up frustration, cutting through the clear blue liquid with brusque even strokes. The physical activity meant to relax him was having the opposite effect, however, and his mind raced with thoughts of Kena and how things had ended yesterday.
He was a fucking idiot. He should have never let her leave. If he had the chance to do it all again, he would have taken what she’d offered. His one moment of chivalry had left him aching. Thanks to her, he’d tossed and turned all night, finally having to take matters into his own hands, literally. The lackluster experience had left him physically sated, but only briefly.
Unfortunately his dissatisfaction returned tenfold when he awoke this morning. His attempts to distract himself had been fruitless. Even the crisp water did nothing to ease his throbbing cock. He needed to get laid but appeasing his hunger was no simple matter. The idea of being with anyone other than Kena was as unappealing as Gloria had been yesterday.
The only relief from his frustration had been the constant pain in his leg. He’d purposely left his usual swim until dusk, hoping the exercise would tire him out to the point where he would be too exhausted to do anything but sleep tonight. Regrettably it hadn’t yet worked. Deciding to take a break, Baldwin stopped and reached out to grab the bottle of water he’d left at the end of the pool, but came up empty.
“Is this what you’re looking for?”
Wiping the water off his face, he looked up to see Kena sitting on a lounger next to the pool with the aforementioned water bottle. The sight of the cause of his ongoing frustration was both stimulating as well as disconcerting.
Unlike the last two times he’d seen her, she was wearing makeup. Not a lot, but just enough to accentuate her high cheekbones. Her full lips were shining in the fading sunset, begging to be kissed. She was wearing a pink tank top and patterned skirt that ended at her knees, showcasing her long, lean legs.
Rather than show his pleasure at her presence, he held out his hand, requesting the water. “If you don’t mind.”
As she walked to the edge of the pool, she pursed her lips in obvious annoyance. Leaning down, she handed him the bottle. “I thought maybe we could talk.”
Did she now. He unscrewed the cap and took a long swallow before asking, “About?”
Baldwin knew he was being difficult, but he wanted to see where she was going to take this. Besides, the longer she stood there the more opportunity he had to stare at her legs. The view had him hard and wanting her all over again.
“Are you looking up my skirt?” Kena’s accusatory tone had him dragging his glance from her alluring charms to her face, which was marred by a frown. He liked her much better when she was smiling.
“What do you expect, darling? When you present the gift in such an enticing package, you can’t expect a man not to look.”
She rolled her eyes, but the frown faded to be replaced with a Mona Lisa smile. “It wasn’t an invitation.”
“It certainly seemed that way to me.” He noticed she had stepped back, but otherwise had done nothing to dissuade him other than acting affronted, which he believed was just that, an act.
“Look, I came over here to apologize for my actions yesterday.”
Baldwin’s brow furrowed in displeasure. Great. While he’d been obsessed with thoughts of her, she’d been regretting their experience. He began to wonder if it had just been a pity kiss, one designed to let him feel like a man again, since she’d called a halt to things when it had gotten a little too intense.
“Okay, I don’t know what that look is, but I think you’re getting the wrong idea.”
“Really? What idea might that be?” Baldwin could feel his ire rising and tried to tamp down his irritation.
“I’m not really sure, but I’m sorry I was baiting you yesterday. That wasn’t my intention.”
“What was your intention then?”
“Hell, I don’t know anymore. Sometimes I speak without thinking. I guess I was trying to get a rise out of you.”
She’d certainly accomplished her goal, although probably not in the way she’d intended.
“So let me get this straight. You’re apologizing for the disagreement?”
“Yes, of course. Wait a minute. What did you think I was apologizing for?”
“The disagreement.”
“No, no, you thought I was apologizing for something to do with the kiss, didn’t you?”
“Not at all.” Although he’d been caught in the lie, it was kind of amusing to see her getting worked up over the issue. She stepped forward again, standing just at the edge of the pool. Her hands were now on her hips and her legs braced and ready for a fight, which only allowed him a better view up her skirt.
“Damn it, are you looking up my skirt again?” Kena gathered the material around her like a shield and bent down until she was almost at face level with him. “You are such a pervert.”
“You’re easily riled.”
“I am not. I just don’t understand how we can be having a serious conversation and the entire time you’re more concerned about looking up my skirt.”
He chuckled at her naivety. The reason was so obvious it hardly deserved an answer, but since she asked, “Because I’m a man?”
“You’re infuriating is what you are.”
“And you need to cool off.” Reaching up, he grasped her upper arms and tugged, pulling her into the pool. He could see her eyes go wide with the realization of what was to come just as she hit the water. He moved toward the shallow end of the pool as she came up sputtering and wiping her wet hair out of her face.
“You. Are. A. Dead. Man.”
Each word was enunciated distinctly. But instead of worry, Baldwin was too interested in noticing what the water had exposed. Her pink tank top was plastered to her skin and it was obvious she wasn’t wearing a bra. Her nipples were puckered and poking through the damp material.
“Did you hear me? Dead. Man. Do you know how long it’s going to take to flat iron my hair again?”
“Why would I know that?”
“Better question, why would you pull me into the pool? Something is seriously wrong with you.”
“You think so.” The madder she became, the harder he grew. Something was definitely wrong with him all right, because her fiery temper turned him on.
“I know so.” She moved through the water until she was standing right in front of him. Her dark eyes were flashing with anger and her black hair lay like strands of seaweed. She was the epitome of a drowned rat, but it didn’t detract from her beauty. He was beginning to believe nothing could.
“You’re an insufferable ass. I’m going to kill you.”
“But first you’re going to kiss me.”
He reached out and pulled her forcefully into his arms. Surprisingly she came willingly, grasping at his shoulders. Leaning down he captured her lips. She moaned and wrapped her arms around his neck as he slipped his tongue into her mouth.
The taste of Kena was as good as he’d remembered, hot and spicy with just a hint of sugar. Her tongue dueled with his as they kissed. Baldwin grasped her hips, bunching the material of her skirt in his hands. All he could think about was getting her out of her wet clothes so he could have access to her delectable skin.
With a quick yank he pulled the skirt over her hips and down past her thighs. She cooperated quite nicely by kicking her feet a few times, sending the skirt floating away. He broke their kiss and began nibbling down her neck, gently biting and then soothing her with a swipe of his tongue. At the same time she began to do some exploring of her own. Her free hand stroked down between them to touch his cock.
At the first touch of her hand, Baldwin moaned and thrust his hips in reaction, pressing his cock toward her questing fingers. He grasped the edge of her tank top and swiftly pulled it off, exposing her breasts to his gaze. The tips were like two dark brown berries, ones he was dying to taste. Taking advantage of the bountiful offering, he captured one of her turgid nipples in his mouth.
“Oh hell, yes.”
Sugar and Spice
By Liz Andrews
Available in e-book from Loose Id
Blurb
Rayne Jankowski is the middle sister in a family of psychics. The problem is, she the only one without powers. Or so she believes.
Unbeknownst to the customers at her health food café and Rayne herself, there's something extra in her muffins, and it isn't just sugar and spice. It's her will. Rayne is unknowingly infusing her power of persuasion into these baked goods. People come in with problems and walk out with solutions...of the mystical kind that is.
Unfortunately for her, her longtime crush Scott Marsten is also partaking of her psychic desserts, which now leaves her to wonder if he asked her out because he's drawn to her or because she mistakenly slipped him a mojo mickey.
For the life of him, Scott can't figure out why Rayne is suddenly pushing him away. Now that he's finally had a taste of the plus-size beauty, he isn't willing to just walk away. Scott believes in psychic powers almost as much as he believes in tooth fairies. He knows what he feels for Rayne is real; now if he could only convince the stubborn beauty of that.
Sugar and spice is nice...but true love is magical.
Excerpt
As they climbed the stairs to her apartment, Rayne was eager and filled with anticipation. Their bantering tonight had been fun, especially knowing their connection existed outside the confines of early mornings in the café. During the concert she had felt so comfortable in his arms. When he had taken the initiative to kiss her, she knew she was ready for their relationship to go further.
She had kissed many men in her life, but never had any of them affected her like he had. His lips on hers had sent an electric charge through her body. The rest of the audience had melted away. Her focus was centered totally on him and the feelings he was evoking. She wouldn’t have quibbled a bit if he had stripped her bare right then and there.
As she wrestled with the key to her apartment, she wondered where tonight might take them. Would he be a generous lover? Was he passionate in bed? Would he…
“Change your mind?”
Sheepishly, Rayne glanced up at Scott, embarrassed she had been caught fantasizing about their first time together instead of actually opening the door so they could live it out. Not wanting him to get the wrong idea and leave, she smiled and shook her head. “Nope, not at all.” With a renewed vigor, she unlocked the door to her apartment and ushered him inside.
Nervously, she turned on the light and shut the door, giving herself a few more minutes to gather her wits. After locking the deadbolt, she turned to face him. Instead of getting undressed like she’d hope, he was standing in the middle of the room, with hands in his pockets, looking around. “Nice place.”
“Thanks.” She tried to perceive the room from a stranger’s point of view. There was a faint smell of yeast and cinnamon from the bakery that permeated the room. The walls were painted a warm yellow and decorated with accents of red. Her furniture was all dark woods, but the room was large enough to handle the bold colors. Thankfully, her landlord allowed her to paint, because the sterile white walls would have sent her into a depression after two weeks.
“So what can you tell from my decorating?” Rayne took off her jacket, dropped it onto the floor, and walked purposely toward him.
“You’re very close to your family.”
“You already knew that.”
Scott flopped onto the extra wide chair and pulled her down onto his lap. “True, but if I didn’t, this room would have told me in a heartbeat.”
Looking around, she could see why he said that. She had pictures of her family everywhere. They were especially prominent across the mantel of her fireplace. She loved the older photos most of all, the slightly wrinkled sepia-toned ones of her great-grandparents. But thoughts of her family weren’t what interested her right now. She was more fascinated with the hardness she felt under her ass.
“Scott, don’t take this the wrong way, okay?”
“Okay…”
“But I don’t want to talk about my family anymore tonight.”
“Then what do you want to talk about?”
“That’s just it.” She lowered her gaze coyly. “I don’t want to talk.”
Slowly, she began to slip the buttons from their holes on his shirt, exposing his chest to her hungry gaze. She’d seen him covered in a tight T-shirt, but never bare-chested. It was a sight to behold. She spread his shirt and ran her hands over his chiseled torso. How this handsome man was interested in her was beyond her scope of understanding, but she wasn’t about to question her good fortune.
While she concentrated on her discovery, Scott’s hand had crept beneath her skirt and was now resting on her thigh. The feel of his callused palm on her soft flesh made her want to experience more. She leaned forward to kiss him.
The moment her lips touched his, his hand tightened on her leg as he explored her mouth. He urged her off his lap for a moment, only to turn her slightly before pulling her back down. This time, however, he spread her legs wide until she was straddling him. The apex of her thighs was now aligned with his cock, which was straining against his zipper.
His hands delved beneath her T-shirt, and he quickly had her bra unhooked. Not bothering to remove the garment, he pushed it up and out of the way. Rayne’s eyes closed as the sensations rushed over her. He cupped her breasts and kneaded the soft flesh as his thumbs brushed over her hardening nipples.
“Hmm, that feels so good.”
“Do you like this?” He pinched her nipples, bringing them to tight peaks.
Shivers of delight coursed along her body, and she could barely speak. “Ahh…yes, I like.”
He chuckled as he continued to tease and torment her sensitive nubs. She could feel the pull all the way to her pussy, and she shifted restlessly on him.
“Stop moving.”
“I can’t help it.” His touch had her pleasure centers whirling out of control. She wanted it all and she wanted it now.
“Lift your arms for me.”
She obeyed him immediately, and, he pulled her T-shirt off and then quickly divested her of the bra as well. Although she’d allowed him to disrobe her, she felt vulnerable sitting there topless while he was completely clothed. Especially when her plus-sized body was in full view. She crossed her arms over her chest and stomach, trying to camouflage what she didn’t want him to notice. Fortunately, he quickly quelled her doubts.
“None of that now.” He pulled her arms wide and leaned forward to capture one of the turgid peaks in his mouth, nibbling at the swollen tip before lathing it with his tongue. He released her arms, and her hands grasped at his shoulders. The solid feel of his cock beneath her had her rocking her now-aching pussy against him.
Rayne never heard the front door opening, but she was startled by the sound of her brother calling her name.
“Rainbow baby, what’s the…oh shit, sorry.”
“What the fuck?” Scott erupted in indignation.
“Oh my God.” This was a nightmare. How in the world did she forget her brother was staying with her? It wasn’t as if she was prudish when it came to nudity; she’d grown up on a commune for Pete’s sakes. But dancing around naked as a kid and getting caught by her brother while going to second base were two different things.
Rayne valiantly attempted to cover herself as Scott struggled to assist her and stand at the same time. It was a futile effort at best. “Who the hell are you?”
“Hey man, I’m sorry.” Forrest stood across the room, his back to them both as he shifted from foot to foot. “I’m Forrest, the older brother.”
Lexxie did an Amazing Job!
BIO
Born a coal miner’s daughter, B.J. McCall lives on the beautiful Central Coast of
California. Multi-published in Ebook and print, B.J. writes sensual romance in contemporary, futuristic and paranormal genres.
A perfect day includes writing the final chapter of a book and spotting dolphins or whales playing offshore.
The phrase “do what you love” applies to B.J. She loves to write and each story is special. She hopes her readers will enjoy each and every one of them.
Website: http://www.bjmccall.com/
Born a coal miner’s daughter, B.J. McCall lives on the beautiful Central Coast of
California. Multi-published in Ebook and print, B.J. writes sensual romance in contemporary, futuristic and paranormal genres.
A perfect day includes writing the final chapter of a book and spotting dolphins or whales playing offshore.
The phrase “do what you love” applies to B.J. She loves to write and each story is special. She hopes her readers will enjoy each and every one of them.
Website: http://www.bjmccall.com/
Lunar Eclipse
BUY LINK
http://www.changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=837
Blurb
Canon Ross seeks his birthright, to live among his mother's pack. Reluctantly, received Canon is establishing his place in the pack until he's seduced by a she-wolf.
Violet Winter's father has decided it's time for her to settle down. Violet wants to mate for love and has refused to bend to his will. Brought before the pack elders, Violet is told to choose a mate by the conclusion of the lunar eclipse.
Sex with the unacceptable half-breed during the eclipse was an act of defiance, meant to demonstrate her independence, but the flames ignited aren't easily extinguished and Canon Ross isn't going to be a werewolf easy to dismiss.
Excerpt
“Wow!” Violet Winter glanced at her friend, Macy.” You weren't kidding.”
Her gaze returned to the half-naked hunk climbing a ladder. Like the rest of the construction crew working in the blazing afternoon heat, the guy had taken off his shirt.
“Nice butt.”
“Thought you'd appreciate it.“
Reaching the top of the ladder, the well-built worker stepped onto a framing beam providing Violet with a full frontal view.
She sucked in a breath. “He is serious eye candy.”
Macy laughed. “Now you know why I've been running in the afternoon instead of in the morning.”
His golden skin glistening with sweat, the hunk pulled a gray bandanna out of the back pocket of his cut-off jeans. Raising arms bulging with muscles, he raked his black hair off his forehead and tied the bandanna around his head. A triangle of dark hair was sprinkled across his chest, descending in a narrow strip down his belly and disappearing beneath the metal button of the frayed cut offs.
Ohhhhhh, God.
“Does Jack know about this?”
“Raising three wild boys entitles me to a daily treat. I just look, never touch, but I'm gonna be real disappointed when this house is finished being built.”
Muscles rippling, the hunk picked up a nail gun and secured a two-by-four.
“Who is he?”
“Trouble.”
Violet's insides went molten. “Define trouble.”
“He's the half-breed everyone is gossiping about.”
“They didn't say he was built like a god.”
Earthly Pleasure by B.J. McCall
Jewels of the Nile I anthology
Available in Ebook and Print
Blurb:
Renee Tremaine maintains a sanctuary, a place for celestial warriors to rest and recuperate on Earth. A late night summons from a wounded warrior sends her rushing to his aid, but this wounded warrior demands more than medical assistance and his mission will change her life.
Chosen by the Celestial Council to seed the female called Renee, Itan intends to perform his task well and complete his mission. When his Earth duty transforms into heavenly pleasure this battle-hardened warrior is destined to lose his heart.
Excerpt
Suddenly self-conscious of her state and unable to explain her actions, Renee set up. Her panties were lying on the floor. At the moment Itan had ripped them off, she practically melted from the intensity of heat between them.
She scrambled off the bed and adjusted her skirt.
“Going somewhere?”
She considered remaining with him, but decided to seek the isolated comfort of her own bed. It wasn't as though they were lovers or even friends. Now that his needs were satisfied, he'd want to sleep. Healing and rest were the reason the sanctuaries existed. Renee told him she'd see him in the morning.
Before she taken two steps, he'd wrapped an arm around her waist and lifted her off her feet. Holding her against his chest, he carried her back to the bed. Kneeling, they faced one another. Renee wondered what he intended to do next. The anticipation of his actions brought a whole new heat.
From the moment she'd laid eyes on him, she'd reacted like an animal in heat.
Grasping the hem of her chemise top, he pulled it up and over her head. His gaze focused on her bare breasts. Without saying a word, he reached out his right hand and touched his fingertips to her breast. The tender, yet sensual, exploration set her pulse to racing. His thumb slid over her nipple. The magic of that simple caress brought forth a sharp gasp, and when he removed his hand, Renee wanted to cry out in protest.
Eager to feel flesh against flesh, Renee unzipped her skirt. The skirt and shoes discarded, his gaze slid over her body and his hands followed with gentle caresses. He molded his palms to her breasts, cupping and lifting, raking his thumbs over her nipples until they were firm, responsive points of pleasure. His fingers danced over her skin as he caressed a path down her torso to her hips. Splaying a hand across her belly, he fanned his fingertips through the curls guarding her sex.
“You're as soft as an angel.”
The tone of his husky exclamation and the admiration burning in his eyes told Renee she pleased him. And she wanted to please him. She didn't know anything about Itan except he carried an honored family name, but she wanted this warrior more than she'd wanted any man.
Itan drew her to him, crushing her breasts to his chest. This close, his scent enveloped her. Her heart pounded, her skin tingled and her pussy pulsed.
Renee wrapped her thighs around his waist and rubbed her breasts against the solid wall of his chest. If she were a cat, she would have purred.
Guiding her onto her back, he remained on his knees with his gaze locked on her pussy. Leaning down, he touched his tongue to her throbbing flesh. Clasping his head in her hands, Renee lifted her hips in silent submission. With a gentle thrust, he tongued her heated flesh. A hot flick to her clit made her gasp and shudder, left her dancing along a delicious edge. Catching the bud between his lips, he suckled her to trembling completion.
Her sex still quivering, he lifted his head. The deep fire of desire burning in his eyes was confirmed as he sat up and rested his buttocks on his heels. Reaching out, Renee curled her fingers around his swelling cock and stroked his hot flesh from root to tip.
Gently, she circled the broad head with the pad of her thumb, bringing forth a bead of moisture.
Groaning, Itan grasped her by the waist and lifted her onto one hard-muscled thigh. She threw her arms around his neck.
“Your wounds.”
He guided her legs around his waist and balanced her butt in his hands. “What wounds?”
Grasping his cock, she positioned the tip to her throbbing center. “You should rest.”
“Want to make me feel better? Ride me hard.”
Blurb:
Renee Tremaine maintains a sanctuary, a place for celestial warriors to rest and recuperate on Earth. A late night summons from a wounded warrior sends her rushing to his aid, but this wounded warrior demands more than medical assistance and his mission will change her life.
Chosen by the Celestial Council to seed the female called Renee, Itan intends to perform his task well and complete his mission. When his Earth duty transforms into heavenly pleasure this battle-hardened warrior is destined to lose his heart.
Excerpt
Suddenly self-conscious of her state and unable to explain her actions, Renee set up. Her panties were lying on the floor. At the moment Itan had ripped them off, she practically melted from the intensity of heat between them.
She scrambled off the bed and adjusted her skirt.
“Going somewhere?”
She considered remaining with him, but decided to seek the isolated comfort of her own bed. It wasn't as though they were lovers or even friends. Now that his needs were satisfied, he'd want to sleep. Healing and rest were the reason the sanctuaries existed. Renee told him she'd see him in the morning.
Before she taken two steps, he'd wrapped an arm around her waist and lifted her off her feet. Holding her against his chest, he carried her back to the bed. Kneeling, they faced one another. Renee wondered what he intended to do next. The anticipation of his actions brought a whole new heat.
From the moment she'd laid eyes on him, she'd reacted like an animal in heat.
Grasping the hem of her chemise top, he pulled it up and over her head. His gaze focused on her bare breasts. Without saying a word, he reached out his right hand and touched his fingertips to her breast. The tender, yet sensual, exploration set her pulse to racing. His thumb slid over her nipple. The magic of that simple caress brought forth a sharp gasp, and when he removed his hand, Renee wanted to cry out in protest.
Eager to feel flesh against flesh, Renee unzipped her skirt. The skirt and shoes discarded, his gaze slid over her body and his hands followed with gentle caresses. He molded his palms to her breasts, cupping and lifting, raking his thumbs over her nipples until they were firm, responsive points of pleasure. His fingers danced over her skin as he caressed a path down her torso to her hips. Splaying a hand across her belly, he fanned his fingertips through the curls guarding her sex.
“You're as soft as an angel.”
The tone of his husky exclamation and the admiration burning in his eyes told Renee she pleased him. And she wanted to please him. She didn't know anything about Itan except he carried an honored family name, but she wanted this warrior more than she'd wanted any man.
Itan drew her to him, crushing her breasts to his chest. This close, his scent enveloped her. Her heart pounded, her skin tingled and her pussy pulsed.
Renee wrapped her thighs around his waist and rubbed her breasts against the solid wall of his chest. If she were a cat, she would have purred.
Guiding her onto her back, he remained on his knees with his gaze locked on her pussy. Leaning down, he touched his tongue to her throbbing flesh. Clasping his head in her hands, Renee lifted her hips in silent submission. With a gentle thrust, he tongued her heated flesh. A hot flick to her clit made her gasp and shudder, left her dancing along a delicious edge. Catching the bud between his lips, he suckled her to trembling completion.
Her sex still quivering, he lifted his head. The deep fire of desire burning in his eyes was confirmed as he sat up and rested his buttocks on his heels. Reaching out, Renee curled her fingers around his swelling cock and stroked his hot flesh from root to tip.
Gently, she circled the broad head with the pad of her thumb, bringing forth a bead of moisture.
Groaning, Itan grasped her by the waist and lifted her onto one hard-muscled thigh. She threw her arms around his neck.
“Your wounds.”
He guided her legs around his waist and balanced her butt in his hands. “What wounds?”
Grasping his cock, she positioned the tip to her throbbing center. “You should rest.”
“Want to make me feel better? Ride me hard.”
Hey Everyone,
A Fling in Vampiropolis is up for Best Book Cover for April. You have to be a member to vote.
Here is the link to the Group:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/rb_afterdark/
Here is the link to the poll:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/rb_afterdark/surveys?id=2359437
Selena
A Fling in Vampiropolis is up for Best Book Cover for April. You have to be a member to vote.
Here is the link to the Group:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/rb_afterdark/
Here is the link to the poll:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/rb_afterdark/surveys?id=2359437
Selena
