Kissin the week of April 29-May 4 Goodbye

4.29.13

Cover Reveal…..Moonlight by Lisa Kessler

Kimberly reviews The Pleasures Of Winter by Evie Hunter

Jennifer reviews The Collector by Victoria Scott

Kimberly reviews The Professional/The Player by Rhonda Nelson

4.30.13

Release Day Madness

Who did you want to have tea with? Find out here!

Spotlight Feature with Cristal Ryder

Kimberly reviews Summer He Came Home by Julianna Stone

Kimberly reviews Paradise Hops by Liz Crowe

5.1.13

Guest Reviewer Charity Reviews Desperate Choices by Hildie McQueen

Interview & Tour Wide Giveaway with Robin Perini

Kimberly’s review of Midnight Secrets by Ella Grace 

Jennifer reviews Gone With The Wolf by Kristin Miller

5.2.13

Thursday’s Thought……

Spotlight & Giveaway with Ana Blaze

Medusa Birthday Bash Tour by Sasha Summers

Kelly’s review of Her Warriors’ Three Wishes by Carrie Ann Ryan 

Jennifer reviews Hot Blooded by Amanda Carlson

5.3.13

Larissa Reinhardt’s Portrait of A Dead Guy Blog Tour

Guest Blog& Giveaway with Jennifer Ryan

5.4.13

SINsational Saturday Series:

 The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games #1

Could you survive on your own, in the wild, with everyone out to make sure you don’t live to see the morning?

In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV.

Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister’s place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before—and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender.

If she is to win, she will have to start making choices that will weigh survival against humanity and life against love.

*****

Catching Fire

The Hunger Games #2

Katniss is the spark to a revolution, and the Capitol wants revenge. She won the Hunger Games and returns alive with District 12 Tribute partner Peeta. But he and longtime friend Gale both reject her. On their Victory Tour of all the districts, locals riot but the winning duo must appear lost in their love.

*****

Mockingjay

The Hunger Games #3

Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has survived the Hunger Games twice. But now that she’s made it out of the bloody arena alive, she’s still not safe. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge. Who do they think should pay for the unrest? Kat, her family, friends, and entire District 12.

 


 

Guest Blog& Giveaway with Jennifer Ryan

The Right Bride – Book 3: The Hunted Series

Cameron Shaw has two beauties after his affections. One’s out for his bank account, the other his heart.

Let’s meet our bachelorettes and see who really is The Right Bride.

Describe Cameron.

Shelly: Rich, powerful, handsome, the perfect guy.

Marti: Kind, generous, loving, a truly good and decent man. He’s a great father.

Describe Cameron’s daughter, Emma.

Shelly: Nice girl. Talks too much. She’s constantly in the way and interrupting.

Marti: Smart. Pretty. Wonderfully imaginative. She brings out the child in me.

Cameron invites you on a date, where do you ask him to go?

Shelly: The most exclusive restaurant in town only someone like Cameron can get into without a reservation made three months in advance.

Marti: A picnic at the park with Emma and a round of miniature golf.

You attend a business party with Cameron, what do you wear?

Shelly: Sexy red strapless mini.

Marti: Classic little black dress.

Describe your perfect wedding.

Shelly: Huge and lavish. Everyone who’s anyone will be there. All eyes on me.

Marti: Cameron, Emma, and I with our closest friends and family.

Describe your perfect wedding gown.

Shelly: Strapless, the gown hugs every curve to the floor with a small flare at the back.

Marti: Classic Cinderella. Cap sleeves, a fitted bodice and full skirt and train.

What does happy-ever-after look like for you?

Shelly: Cameron and I live in a huge mansion, travel the world, and have everything our hearts desire.

Marti: Cameron and I live with Emma and our other children, building memories as a family. We watch our children grow and enjoy our grandchildren long into our old age. No matter what comes our way, we’re together.

While it may seem clear who Cameron should marry, it’s not so cut and dry when Shelly announces she’s pregnant. Will he fall into her trap, or marry The Right Bride


 

The Right Bride 

Book 3: The Hunted Series 

Available 4/30/13

High-powered businessman Cameron Shaw doesn’t believe in love—until he falls in love at first sight with beautiful, passionate, and intensely private, Martina. She’s perfect in so many ways, immediately bonding with his little girl. Martina could be his future bride and a delightful stepmother…if only Cameron wasn’t blinded by his belief that Shelly, the gold-digging woman he’s promised to marry, is pregnant with his child.

No matter how much his friends protest his upcoming marriage to Shelly, he knows he has a duty to his children, so he’s determined to see it through.

Will he find out in time Shelly’s lying and Marti’s the one actually carrying his child? It’ll come down to the day of his wedding. After choosing Shelly over Marti at every turn, will he convince her she’s his world and the only woman he wants?

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About Jennifer:

Jennifer lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband, three children, her dog, Bella, and cat, Shadow.

When she isn’t writing a book, she’s reading one. Her obsession for both is often revealed in the state of her home and how late dinner is to the table. When she finally leaves those fictional worlds, you’ll find her in the garden, playing in the dirt and daydreaming about poeple who live only in her head, until she puts them on paper.

Learn more about Jennifer HERE

Larissa Reinhardt’s Portrait of A Dead Guy Blog Tour

PORTRAIT OF A DEAD GUY

A Cherry Tucker Mystery #1

Amazon KindleAmazon Paperback | B&N Nook |  B&N Paperback  | Kobo

In Halo, Georgia, folks know Cherry Tucker as big in mouth, small in stature, and able to sketch a portrait faster than kudzu climbs telephone poles — but commissions are scarce. So when the well-heeled Branson family wants to memorialize their murdered son in a coffin portrait, Cherry scrambles to win their patronage from her small town rival.

 As the clock ticks toward the deadline, Cherry faces more trouble than just a controversial subject. Between ex-boyfriends, her flaky family, an illegal gambling ring, and outwitting a killer on a spree, Cherry find herself painted into a corner she’ll be lucky to survive.

ABOUT LARISSA:

Larissa Reinhart loves small town characters, particularly sassy women with a penchant for trouble. STILL LIFE IN BRUNSWICK STEW (May 2013) is the second in the Cherry Tucker Mystery Series. The first, PORTRAIT OF A DEAD GUY, is a 2012 Daphne du Maurier finalist, a 2012 The Emily finalist, and a 2011 Dixie Kane Memorial winner. Expect HIJACK IN ABSTRACT and a Cherry Tucker novella in THE HEARTACHE MOTEL out in November and December 2013.

She lives near Atlanta with her minions and Cairn Terrier, Biscuit. Visit her website; her expat blog; or find her chatting with the Little Read Hens on Facebook; at her Facebook page; Twitter; and Goodreads.

 

 

 

 

 

GIVEAWAY INFO:

Larissa is giving away the following prizes on her tour:

Grand Prize:  (1)  $20.00 Visa Gift Card

Runner-Up :  (1) eBook of Portrait of a Dead Guy

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Larissa Reinhardt’s

Portrait of A Dead Guy

Blog Tour Schedule

 

4/28-  Love in A Book

http://www.loveinabook.com/

4/29-  Bianca2b

http://bianca2b.wordpress.com/

4/29  – Fandom Fanatic

http://fandomfanatic.blogspot.com/

4/30-  Book Monster Reviews

http://www.bookmonsterreviews.com/

5/02-  Literal Addiction

http://www.literaladdiction.com/

5/03-  Books-n-Kisses

http://www.books-n-kisses.com/

5/04-  My Book Addiction

http://mybookaddiction.com/

5/06-  Mad Hatter Reads

http://madhatterreads.blogspot.com/

5/07-  Salacious Reads

http://www.salaciousreads.com/

5/08-  United by Books

http://unitedbybooks.blogspot.com/

5/09-  The Jeep Diva

http://thejeepdiva.com/

5/11 – Froggarita’s Bookcase

http://www.froggaritasbookcase.com/

Guest Blog & Giveaway with Ana Blaze

Seven Reasons Beth (and You) Should Give Colin Pratt a Chance to Win Your Heart

            Colin knows he doesn’t fit the standard definition of a romance hero. After all, his only serious girlfriend ditched him for his brother, he’s a bit of a klutz and the word lanky works its way into his description fairly often. But I think he isn’t giving himself enough credit. The tweed-wearing cutie is a catch. Here’s why:

 

  1. He has a dreamy British accent.
  2. He looks great without a shirt … or pants.
  3. He likes Doctor Who.
  4. He admires strong woman.
  5. He like his curry hot.
  6. He has a Master’s Degree in dirty talk.
  7. Someday he’ll make a great dad.

So what do you say, would you give him a chance?

*****

The Best Man

by Ana Blaze

Available April 29

Purchase HERE

Blurb

Beth Chase is too busy planning perfect weddings to worry about the lack of action in her own love life. But if she was looking for a man, she wouldn’t be looking at Colin Pratt. Her boss swears that Best Man Colin is a quiet scholar and science fiction writer who couldn’t possibly cause a fuss at his own brother’s wedding. He’s clearly never met the man in question. Snarky, sexy and more than a little inebriated, Colin is the final obstacle between Beth and the last perfect wedding she needs to make partner. Of course, when she helps him into a taxi at the end of the night she has no idea that he’s only just begun to poke holes in her professional exterior. Colin might have the skills to seduce a romance professional, but can he convince her that he’s the best man to share her happy ever after?

 

About the Author: 

Ana lives just outside Washington DC with her very supportive husband and three rather demanding cats. She loves the ocean, Indian food, IKEA, and cooking. Ana admits to watching too much television and she swears that someday she’s going to learn how to play the guitar resting on the bookshelf in her office.

Website: www.anablaze.blogspot.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/AnaBlazeLove

Twitter: @ana_blaze

Book trailer: http://youtu.be/PiNLdS1d1h8

 

Blog Tour Giveaway (US only)

One lucky reader will win The Best Man ebook and a goodie pack to share with the best man or woman in their life. The pack contains candles, Godiva chocolate, Tuscan lavender soap, Sensual Massage Oil from The Body Shop and two lip treatments from The Body Shop. It will come packaged in a pretty photo box.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Extra stuff

Mr. Right, a free novella by Ana Blaze, is available now at Smashwords.

  

Find out more here: http://www.entrancedpublishing.com/readers-club-4/entranced-extras/

Thanks from the Entranced team for being part of
The Best Man blog tour. 

“Medusa” Birthday Bash Tour by Sasha Summers

“Medusa” Birthday Bash Tour

By Sasha Summers

 

AmazonB&NKoboAll Romance ebooks

Goodreads 

Book Blurb:

It’s said love can change a person. Medusa wasn’t always a monster…

Medusa is ruled by duty, to her Titan father and the Goddess Athena. She’s no room for the tenderness her warrior guard, Ariston, stirs. When Olympus frees her from service, her heart leads her into the arms of the guard she loves… and curses her as the creature with serpent locks.

Ariston goes to war with a full heart… and dreadful foreboding. He learns too late of the danger Medusa faces, alone, and a Persian blade sends him into the Underworld. But death, curses, nor the wrath of the Gods will keep him from returning to her.

Poseidon will use Greece’s war to get what he wants: Medusa. He does not care that she belongs to another. He does not care that she will be damned. He is a God, an Olympian, and she will be his.

 

Giveaway Time!!!!

THE PRIZE: 

Autographed copy of “Medusa, A Love Story (Loves of Olympus Series, Bk #1)”
Autographed copy of “For the Love of Hades (Loves of Olympus Series, Bk #2)”
Thea (owl) Necklace
“Medusa” car charm
Series Swag

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Want more chances to win?????  Follow the whole tour HERE.  The more  you comment, the better chance you have of winning.

Book Trailer

Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90fH7xoZiCo

Sahsa’s Bio 

Sasha is part gypsy. Born June 9, 1974, stories have always played an important role in her life. Her passions have always been storytelling, Hollywood, history, and travel. It’s no surprise that her books include a little of each. Her first play, ‘Greek Gods and Goddesses’ was written for her Girl Scout troupe. She’s been writing ever since. She loves getting lost in the worlds and characters she creates; even if she frequently forgets to run the dishwasher or wash socks when she’s doing so. Luckily, her four brilliant children and hero-inspiring hubby are super understanding and supportive.

Author Links:

Website/Blog |  TwitterFB Author PageGoodreads | Pinterest | YouTube

Interview & Tour Wide Giveaway with Robin Perini

Hi Robin,

Welcome to Books-n-Kisses. Can you please share with us a little about yourself

I live in the southwestern United States. By day, I work for an advanced technology corporation, and in my spare time (what there is of it), you might find me giving writing workshops or training in competitive small-bore rifle silhouette shooting.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

I lost my heart to storytelling when I was a child, sitting at the knee of my great-aunt. She mesmerized me with her tales of ‘The Little Match Girl’ and ‘How the Tiger Got its Tail.’ She wrenched my heart, made me laugh and cry. She fed my love of reading and learning. Perhaps it was inevitable that I followed in her footsteps.

Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?

I have so many authors who have brought me incredible joy since I was a child. In fact, on my website (http://www.robinperini.com) I have included a page listing many of my all-time favorite books and authors.

Those books typically evoke deep emotions within me. They are my window into pain, joy, insight, and wisdom. One of my favorite authors is Sharon Sala. This New York Times Bestselling Author has written novels that twist my heart through a painful journey, but end in hope. Her ability to touch my soul makes me go back to her stories again and again.

Even more than that, Sharon Sala is a mentor to me. She read my first published novel, In Her Sights, several years ago. She believed in me and my book at a time when it was hard to believe in myself. I’m not sure I would be here today without her encouragement. She is an amazing writer, of course, but even a more amazing person.

I’d like to be her when I grow up.

How did you get into writing in this specific genre?  Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre?

Romantic suspense by its very nature forces strong heroes and heroines to face their worst fears and greatest flaws while battling a villain who manipulates on both an external and internal level. If I can create heart-stopping suspense and poignant romance that ends with my reader feeling hope and optimism, I’ve accomplished the very best romantic suspense has to offer.

I am always interested in writing other genres. In fact, I’ve tried my hand at several. As long as I believe I can emotionally impact my readers—that’s a genre I would write.

What are some of your writing rituals?

I’m actually one of those irritating morning people. I write from 5:30 am – 7:00 am weekdays. Mostly to get the adrenaline pumping because I thrive on deadlines—and being panicked! If you only have an hour and a half, you have to make the most of every second. Also, I write in ‘sprints’. 20 minutes of writing and a 10 minute break. This idea was introduced to me my fellow writer, Angi Morgan (www.angimorgan.com) and it really works for me. If nothing else my body doesn’t go numb from sitting in the chair. In fact, every twenty minutes we report to each other in a free chat room (you can get chat rooms at www.chatzy.com) how many words we’ve written. For ten minutes we brainstorm, discuss, whine, stretch, whatever. It’s a great way to keep pushing through.

On Saturday, I write for about 5 hours in the morning, and on Sunday, after church, I write for three hours.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

Behind the Lies is the second Montgomery Justice novel, and NO MAN IS AS UNFORGETTABLE AS A MONTGOMERY MAN (I love the line my publisher came up with for this story).

Of the six Montgomery brothers, Zach has always walked on the wild side. He rocketed to fame playing a hero in a movie, but offscreen he’s living in the shadows. Zach’s dark secret: he leads a double life as a CIA operative. When a mission to stalk a terrorist goes horribly wrong, Zach’s cover is blown. He’s on the run and fighting to stay alive long enough to discover whom he can trust—and who betrayed him.

Jenna Walters thought she’d married the perfect man—until she unearthed his terrible secret. Now, desperate to escape his crosshairs, she and her son take refuge in Zach’s secret hideaway. Sparks fly between Zach and Jenna even as danger explodes around them.

From Afghanistan to Turkey to the mountains of Colorado, assassins track them and are closing in. Not only is Zach’s life at stake, but now Jenna and her son are targets in this high stakes game.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

I really wanted to write a story about a man with five brothers who were heroes…and he played a hero in the movies. Of course, he finds out that he does have a hero’s heart. That he did all along. Zach Montgomery and Behind the Lies were born out of that single idea.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

I’m finishing up The Cradle Conspiracy right now (Harlequin Intrigue, December, 2013). And after that, I’ll start to work on Gabe Montgomery’s book. I’ve got quite a heroine planned for Gabe. An ex-military helicopter pilot with some big secrets. Bound by Secrets comes out in 2014.

Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.

 

Well, Zach and Jenna are stuck on the top of a mountain. You should never walk in the mountains at night…my grandfather and dad taught me that. Too easy to walk right off the edge. So, they’re stuck in a cave, and Zach is doing his best to keep from falling for Jenna. It’s not working! <grin>

What would you be if you were not an author?

Actually, I’m living my dream. I work during the day for an advanced technology corporation, and before work and on the weekends, I write. My left and right brain get a work out, but it’s fun and challenging.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

I have Sharon Sala’s RITA finalist, Don’t Cry for Me, on my TBR pile right now. I’m really looking forward to reading that book. As soon as I deliver my latest manuscript, I’m opening page one of that puppy!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thanks so much for having me. It’s been a real pleasure and I really do love to hear from readers. You can read excerpts, read reviews, sign up for my quarterly newsletter or mailing list, check out my book trailers and even request trading cards or a Authorgraph on my website at www.robinperini.com. I’m also on Twitter, Facebook, Goodreads and Pinterest. And, if you enjoy my stories, you may want to consider being part of the Rockin’ Robins, my street team. There are lots of special giveaways and more.

I’d love to know what your dear readers have on their To Be Read Pile. I’m just finishing up a manuscript and would LOVE some recommendations!

TOUR GIVEAWAY INFO:

Robin is giving away the following prizes on the tour:

Grand Prize: $100.00 gift card to Amazon or B&N

Runners up: Two (2) Runners-up will each receive a $25.00 gift card to Amazon or B&N

2nd Runner-up: Runner-up will receive an autographed complete collection of Robin’s books which will include Finding Her Son, Cowboy in the Crossfire (2013 RITA Finalist), Christmas Conspiracy, Undercover Texas (Carder Texas Connections) and In Her Sights and Behind the Lies (first two Montgomery Justice Novels)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*****

IN HER SIGHTS
Montgomery Justice, Book 1

SWAT Team Sniper Jasmine “Jazz” Parker can thread the eye of a needle with a bullet. As the only female sniper in the state of Colorado, Jazz is unique for more than her extraordinary marksmanship skills and cool head. Jazz Parker and her weapon defend the helpless by exacting swift and uncompromising justice. Not bad for the daughter of the town whore.

After growing up on the seedy side of town, Jazz believed when she’d changed her name and her life at fifteen, she’d buried her past. Two years ago, she even drove away the one man she believed she could love—ex-Army Ranger turned reporter Luke Montgomery—to protect her secret.

Then, in a fleeting second, the time it takes for one clean shot, one perfect hit, to save the life of the Governor’s daughter, Jazz’s world begins to crumble around her. Her past and her present now threaten to destroy the life she has carefully constructed for herself. Her face and name have been splashed across the front page—by none other than Luke Montgomery—and her past has reawakened with a vengeance. A vicious enemy is bent on destroying Jazz’s life, forcing her to turn to the one man she can never have in order to stop a killer before she and everyone she cares about pay with their lives.

Click here to read an excerpt.

Order Now:  Kindle | Paperback | Audible

BEHIND THE LIES
Montgomery Justice, Book 2

Of the six Montgomery brothers, Zach has always walked on the wild side. He rocketed to fame playing a hero in a movie, but offscreen he’s living in the shadows. Zach’s dark secret: he leads a double life as a CIA operative. When a mission to stalk a terrorist goes horribly wrong, Zach’s cover is blown. He’s on the run and fighting to stay alive long enough to discover whom he can trust—and who betrayed him.
Jenna Walters thought she’d married the perfect man—until she unearthed his terrible secret. Now, desperate to escape his crosshairs, she and her son take refuge in Zach’s secret hideaway. Sparks fly between Zach and Jenna even as danger explodes around them.
From Afghanistan to Turkey to the mountains of Colorado, assassins track them and are closing in. Not only is Zach’s life at stake, but now Jenna and her son are targets in this high stakes game.

Available on April 23, 2013:   Kindle | Paperback | Audible

BEHIND THE LIES TRAILER

http://youtu.be/N9MvUWeavGE

EXCERPT (BEHIND THE LIES)
She’d give the FBI one last chance.
“Fallon.” The crisp voice on the other end of the phone didn’t calm her as it had in the past. In fact, he sounded shaken.
No more out of sorts than she. “He knows.”
“Jenna?”
“One of the bugs is in pieces. I’m telling you, he knows. I’ve got to get out of here. Now. I don’t know why he hasn’t already killed me. Probably because he couldn’t find a babysitter on such short notice.” The forced laugh didn’t hide the panic in her voice.
Who was she kidding? She shoved underwear into the bag and yanked open another drawer.
“Wait a minute, Jenna. Let’s think this through. We can salvage the operation.” He didn’t sound like himself. Something was wrong. The gut instinct that abandoned her when Brad had swept her off her feet revved into overdrive.
For months after her dad had died, she’d survived on the streets, instinct and desperation her only allies. At fourteen she’d kept herself safe by trusting her gut.
Right now, every fiber in her being told her that the man on the other end of the phone was lying to her.
She couldn’t afford to doubt. Besides, why should she be surprised that another person she’d trusted was a liar?

Robin Perini Bio
National Bestselling and award-winning author Robin Perini sold seven titles to publishers in one year after winning the prestigious Romance Writers of America® Golden Heart® award in 2011. Her writing’s motto: “When danger and romance collide, no heart is safe.” An analyst for an advanced technology corporation, Perini is also a nationally acclaimed writing instructor and enjoys competitive small-bore rifle silhouette shooting. She makes her home in the American Southwest.
Connect with Robin:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Robin Perini’s
BEHIND THE LIES
Blog Tour Schedule
4/19 – 4/04

4/19 – Curling Up With A Good Book

4/20 – Toot’s Books Reviews

4/21 – Page Flipperz

4/22 – Cocktails and Books

4/23 – Romance Junkies

4/24 – Book Lovin’ Mamas

4/25 – The Reading Café

4/26 – Riverina Romantics

4/27 – Deal Sharing Aunt

4/29 – Book Monster Reviews and LITERAL ADDICTION

4/30 – Alexx Mom Cat’s Gateway

5/01 – Books-N-Kisses

5/02 – Beach Bum Reads

5/03 – Books, Books and More Books

5/04 – Books A La Mode

 

COMING SOON

UNDERCOVER TEXAS –

His most important mission brought him to Texas—and reunited him with the son he never met…

RT Top Pick. 4.5 Stars.  “Perini’s action-packed, terrifying tale grips the reader from the first sentence and doesn’t let go until the final climactic page.”

Spotlight Feature: Being Ariana & Being Bound by Cristal Ryder

Being Ariana & Being Bound

Being Ariana

 

Is it better to get lost in your fantasy, or be found in another’s?

Ellie Taylor lives her erotic dreams by masquerading herself as Ariana and visiting the Black Phantom. In this club where anything goes, she plans to perform onstage before an audience, building her sexual excitement to a fever pitch before selecting her man. But Ariana is sidetracked by a tall, blond masked maitre-d. He captivates her and all thoughts of performing are forgotten. He’s every bit as domineering as Ariana and pushes her to her sexual limit. Their true identities concealed, they set out to use each other for pleasure–no risk of entanglement or commitment…but that may prove easier said than done.

WARNING: Explicit sex/language, domination, bondage and kink

Excerpt:

Ariana was coming out to play.

A little over a week ago through underground channels, word reached Ellie Taylor that the Black Phantom’s Lost in Fantasy Affair was tonight. Ellie knew she would be drawn out for some naughty fun masquerading herself as Ariana, her bolder alter ego.

For a week Ellie, a highly paid and respected Senior Vice President of Beauty for an international department store chain, moved through her day job in a high state of erotic anticipation.

She felt like a child waiting for Christmas morning. The time seemed to crawl by and focusing on her tasks became a chore, but being a professional, she survived the wait on a knife edge of arousal. Her daytime persona paid the bills. A life which satisfied her for the most part and gave her a normalcy she craved. But no matter how hard Ellie tried to keep Ariana at bay, her mysterious night side craved to come out and play.

Thinking about what she might do as Ariana this evening at the Affair made her breath hitch a little more rapidly and her heart tango in her chest.

Finally, tonight is here.

Ellie sat before the mirror with an array of powders, blushes, lipsticks and brushes and Ariana slowly emerged under Ellie’s creative fingers. Ellie took a moment to sit back and gaze at her masterpiece. She watched her lips as they rested against the edge of the crystal goblet and sipped the delicious red wine. Creating the right mood for Ariana’s materialization was critical, and the ruby liquid along with the scented candles and dimmed lighting in her dressing room accomplished an ambience fitting for Ariana’s arrival.

Ellie’s distinctive sea-green eyes couldn’t be camouflaged but she could alter them with black eyeliner, smudged kohl and thick eyelashes, creating a complete shock against her almost translucent skin. The eyes were important to her and needed to be just right. She pressed her baby finger to the outside corner and rubbed lightly, blending out the shade.

Of course, the makeup she used came from the best companies. She laughed out loud. If only they knew the expensive products showered on her were used to completely change her appearance.

Ellie outlined her shell pink lips and stained them with chili-pepper red, a stark contrast adding to her disguise along with the black tinted blush she swept across her cheekbones. Now as Ariana, she raised her chin and turned her head from one side to the other, critically assessing herself. One last touch and she was done. Ariana smoothed a few stray hairs on the deep auburn hairpiece before securing it in place. It was cut in a bob that ended just below her chin. With her blond hair wound up under the wig, Ellie transformed into sultry, mysterious Ariana. No one would ever guess Ariana was Ellie, and that’s how she wanted it.

Taking the goblet of wine between her fingers, she rose and padded naked to the walk-in closet. It was extraordinarily neat and bigger than most bedrooms. A true perk to the position she held in the real world.

No longer Ellie, Ariana now stood before a three-way mirror, and how she loved it. She could view her body from all angles. She sipped the wine and turned slowly, looking at every inch of her skin over the rim of the glass. As a teenager she’d hated her body, but as she matured she realized the power it held and learned to love who she was. She became expert at artfully draping clothes to accentuate her voluptuous shape, incredible legs and an ass even Jay-lo would envy.

Ariana viewed her latest tattoo, set in the graceful curve of her waist, just above her hip and slightly to the back. The artist had expressed surprise when she’d asked for a wren. But once she’d showed him the image she wanted, he didn’t ask any more questions and had set about recreating the small and delicate bird on her flawless skin.

She longed to touch herself, and it took all her determination not to. Her stiff nipples and the firm skin along her belly to the springy neatly trimmed curls between her legs beckoned her fingertips, to caress and stroke. She ached with need but restrained herself, clutching the wine glass a little tighter. Ariana knew if she gave in and her fingers reached the juncture of her thighs, she wouldn’t be able to stop. And pleasuring herself would detract from later. So she let the anticipation of touch satisfy her for now. She must wait, and licked her lips with expectation. It was time to cover up and dress for the Black Phantom.

 

 

~Being Bound~

Lyrical’s readers choice for 2012

Sometimes reality is so much better than fantasy.

A man used to getting what he wants, Tom Rourke doesn’t take being discarded lightly. Smarting from rejection, Rourke decides the complication of women is distracting him from his goal. He refocuses his energy into ownership of the Black Phantom, where he meets Heather Canyon.

Drawn into her erotic web, he can’t get her out of his mind. But can he trust her? The only way to know is to experience her first hand.

Dominatrix Heather Canyon is looking for a new beginning, and a safe place where she can let her talents shine. Rourke’s proposition is the perfect opportunity. She must test him to ensure they are the right fit for each other and challenges him at every turn. She isn’t looking for a partner, but has she found her match with Rourke?

WARNING: Light BDSM, kink, explicit sex.

Excerpt:

Their gaze met and he smiled, showing his white, even teeth. He was a handsome man. There was no doubt about that.

“Heather.” He reached his hand out and she waited for the jolt of desire when their palms met. She wasn’t disappointed.

“Rourke.”

His gaze boldly slipped from her face and took in her appearance. She stepped back and opened her coat for him so he could see what she wore. Heather slipped it off and held it out without moving her gaze from Rourke.

“Viktor.” She didn’t say anything more, simply his name as a test to see how responsive he was.

He scurried over and grabbed the supple leather as she dropped it, making sure it didn’t hit the floor, then disappeared behind the curtains of the stage.

No look of surprise crossed his face once her full costume was revealed to him and her small sense of disappointment intrigued her. She had expected a reaction and wanted it. But didn’t receive one. Her eyes narrowed ever so slightly and she watched his features. She knew she look perfect and sensed he was trying to remain unaffected.

“So then, shall we continue our discussion?” Heather turned and looked out from the stage. She moved to the edge and stood with her legs wide and hands resting on her hips.

“What more is there to discuss?” He was behind her and she felt his heat. It raised her body temperature and a sweet fullness began to settle between her thighs. Heather couldn’t deny she was highly attracted to Rourke. But for now, she would enjoy the edge it gave her and not fall prey to his seduction. His breath fluttered her long hair.

“Boundaries, rules, trust, salary.”

He chuckled and the deep rumble from his chest slipped around her like a thunderclap.

She turned to face him and before he could reply she continued. “You find that funny?” His smiled stayed, but an eyebrow shot up. “I can tell this is all new to you,” she said with a dismissive wave, the black leather arm sheath shining in the dimming light, “it is quite serious business not to be taken lightly.”

He stepped back from her and crossed his arms over his powerful chest, still not saying anything.

Heather continued in an even and firm tone, “I know of your club and didn’t come without, quite possibly, better knowledge than you.”

He shook his head, “I doubt tha—”

Heather put her hand up and he halted mid sentence. “I have certain expectations, as I’m sure you do.” She walked to the far side of the stage. She felt the weight of his gaze on her and almost smelled his desire. “I’d like to see the back rooms.” She swung her gaze back to him. His face showed his surprise. Did he really think I wouldn’t know? She could tell he was thrown off balance. She accomplished the most important feat in less than ten minutes. He had to feel her power and control and accept it. When he didn’t say a word and led her backstage, he had made it evident her power radiated over him.

Cover Reveal……Moonlight by Lisa Kessler

Release Day: July 15, 2013

Pre Order here: Amazon| B&N

Rancher Adam Sloan is more than meets the eye. As the heir to his Pack, the sexy werewolf’s biggest challenge is keeping his kin’s true nature under wraps. But a group of jaguar shifters threatens to reveal the pack, blasting into town killing humans in plain sight. And when he smells one at the local diner, his standing orders are to take her out.

Lana Turpin doesn’t realize she’s a moving target. Raised in the foster system, she only knows that she blacks out during the new moon and wakes up without remembering a thing. But now she’s being tracked by some strange organization that wants her back—even though she’s never stepped foot inside their compound. And the stranger across the diner is watching her like an enemy.

It should be a simple mission for Adam, but when he touches the frustratingly beautiful Lana, his inner wolf howls…mate. Now, the two must find and stop the people who hunt her…and Adam must keep his own family from killing the only woman he will ever love.

Add to your Goodreads list HERE

Kissin the week of April 22nd-27th Goodbye

4.22.13

Interview & Giveaway with Laura Moore

Kimberly’s review of Dream Seeker by Strom Savage

Kimberly’s review of Flirting Under a Full Moon by Ahyln Chase 

4.23.13

Release Day Madness

Interview & giveaway with Jessica E Subject

Kelly’s review of How Beauty Met the Beast by Jax Garren 

Kimberly’s review of Love Letters Volume 1 

4.24.13

Guest Reviewer

Interview & Giveaway with Grace Burrowes

Spotlight feature of Her Cowboy’s Heart by Marissa Dobson

Kimberly’s review of Enchantress by Rae Morgan

Kimberly’s review of Lush by Lauren Dane

Kimberly’s review of A Vampire’s Salvation by Virna DePaul

4.25.13

Thursday’s Thoughts…..

Jennifer’s review of Greta & The Goblin King by Chloe Jacobs

4.26.13

Cover Reveal: CLAIMED by Stacey Kennedy

Interview & tour wide giveaway with Sidney Bristol

Interview & giveaway with Karina Cooper

Kimberly’s review of  Down in New Orleans by Heather Graham

4.27.13

SINsational Saturday Series:

Dark Mission Series by Karina Cooper

 

Dark Mission Series by Karina Cooper

Before the Witches 

Dark Mission 0.5

In America, they didn’t care about witches. But all that was about to change.

Katya Zhuvova fled a country that feared her gifts, but her escape to Seattle left her at the mercy of a ruthless man. With no one left to turn to, Katya hatches a desperate escape plan. Undercover Detective Nigel Ferris is determined to bring down a prostitution ring, whatever the cost. In order to the get answers he needs, he attempts to win the trust of one of the prostitutes involved—but one look at the deceptively sultry Katya and the cool, objective cop disappears. Before either can put their plans into place, Mother Nature shrugs: a cataclysm rocks Seattle, and life is turned upside down.

Brought together by chance, Nigel and Katya are in the fight for their lives. Surrounded by death and fear, shattered by immeasurable loss, they have only a bond forged in fire to cling to as they struggle to survive in a world gone straight to hell.

*****

Blood of the Wicked 

Dark Mission #1

 When the world went straight to hell, humanity needed a scapegoat to judge, to blame . . . to burn.

As an independent witch living off the grid, Jessie Leigh has spent her life running, trying to blend in among the faceless drudges in the rebuilt city. She thought she was finally safe, but now she’s been found in a New Seattle strip club—by a hard-eyed man on a mission to destroy her kind.

A soldier of the Holy Order, Silas Smith believes in the cause: trawling the fringes of society for the murderous witches who threaten what’s left of the world. Forced into a twisting web of half-truths and lies, he has to stay close to the most sensuous and electrifying woman he has ever seen and manipulate her into leading him to the witch he has to kill: her brother. Silas doesn’t know that Jessie’s his enemy, only that he wants her, needs her, even as he lies to her… and must protect her until his final breath.

*****

Lure of the Wicked 

Dark Mission #2

 Naomi West was plucked from one prison and placed undercover in another: the gilded cage that is Timeless, New Seattle’s premier spa and resort, where owner Phinneas Clarke—the most seductive man Naomi has ever met—may be hiding a killer. She’s an agent of the Holy Order, trained to hunt the guilty and render justice. But while she’s tracking down a rogue agent on a killing spree, Phin is determined to uncover her most damning—and dangerous—secrets. Whatever the cost.

*****

No Rest for the Witches 

Dark Mission #2.5

 New Seattle is changing. Witches and witch hunters have become allies, and the Order’s grip on the city is slipping. But they won’t go down without a fight…

After the disastrous end to their last mission, Jessie, Silas, and Naomi regroup at their sanctuary far beneath New Seattle. But their brief rest is shattered when Jessie “sees” two of their own attacked topside. Dodging bullets and black magic, they risk it all on a treacherous rescue mission. Already stretched to the limit, danger waits in unexpected corners. If the Holy Order finds them, the team is as good as dead. But they can’t hide forever..

*****

All Things Wicked 

Dark Mission #3

 Juliet Carpenter thought of the coven as family, but when she falls for a man who betrays them all, she’s left alone and desperately searching for a reason why. Caleb Leigh has spent the past year in hiding, unable to escape his demons. When Juliet finds him again, her need for vengeance clashes with the hunger still burning between them.

It’s a fight born from the embers of a half-forgotten attraction and the wounds of a past too raw to ignore. With enemies circling and secrets threatening to consume them, Caleb has no choice but to fulfill a promise made long ago–protect her, save her. Even if it costs him his blood, his body . . . and what’s left of his mind.

*****
Sacrifice the Wicked 

Dark Mission #4

 Parker Adams has always done what’s expected of her . . . until a double agent with nothing to lose ignites a passion she doesn’t dare give in to.

Mission Agent Simon Wells is everything Parker Adams has been trained to fight: manipulator, murderer, spy… witch. But for her, what makes Simon most dangerous is his mesmerizing sexual magnetism, powerful enough to tempt even the famed ice queen of the Mission. Though she knows better, each encounter with the deceptive agent leaves her craving more.

Simon isn’t a man to let go of what’s his, and his pursuit forces Parker, a woman he can’t get out from under his skin, to make a stand that could destroy her. If they can work together, they might survive the politics that have enslaved their devastated world—or fall victim to the pitfalls of desperation, bone-deep mistrust, and a hunger that threatens to consume them.

*****

Wicked Lies

Dark Mission #4.5

In this Dark Mission novella, Jonas Stone emerges from the shadows into his own story, and finally allows himself to have the same shot at love he’s given his friends. Jonas Stone has been given his first independent operation: rescue the insurrection leader’s imprisoned grandson from the Mission. Getting the job done means more than getting Danny Granger out–it means staying with him while he heals. Staying too close, for way too long.
Danny is everything Jonas isn’t: confident, optimistic, honest–a man to be reckoned with. If only it didn’t mean going against everything Jonas has planned. He’s kept his secrets for years, hid behind a mask no one could see through…until now. Danny isn’t the kind of man Jonas deserves. But he might be exactly the man he needs.

*****

One for the Wicked 

Dark Mission #5

Expected publication: April 30th 2013 by Avon

In this thrilling finale to Karina Cooper’s Dark Mission series, New Seattle’s witches will rise again…or fall forever.

Dr. Kayleigh Lauderdale possesses the only cure for what’s killing the city’s witches. Desperate to acquire it, the resistance sends their best agent, but Shawn Lowe has his own agenda, and it doesn’t include saving anyone—least of all, the daughter of his sworn enemy. He has to ignore the blistering attraction he feels the instant they meet, because he can’t give in until he gets what he wants. He just never counted on wanting her…

Kayleigh can’t believe how out of control Shawn makes her feel. He lies to her with one breath and excites her beyond reason the next. A reckless encounter could steal her heart, while the danger hovering over the city may prove too much for either of them to handle. When the world turns upside down, it will take everything Kayleigh and Shawn have to hold on…to life, to hope, to each other.

Karina Cooper Books on AmazonKarina Cooper Books at B&N