Interview with the ladies of Dangerous Attraction

TODAY WE’RE CHATTING WITH THE WOMEN OF DANGEROUS ATTRACTION, ONE OF THE FASTEST SELLING BOXED SETS IN THE ROMANCE WORLD.

Within hours of going live, your book was one of Amazon’s top Movers and Shakers. Why do you think readers are so taken with this romantic suspense set?

Jill Sanders: With the line-up we have, how could they not jump at the chance to get 10 great books for that price. I think we have some top-notch authors and books included and the readers seem to agree.

Patricia Rosemoor: Ten authors who all have achieved success on their own have chosen to work together to give readers an outstanding array of romantic suspense offerings — nine novels and a bonus Christmas novella — for a stunningly low introductory price.

Debra Burroughs: The cover is eye-catching and the deal is impressive. When you see that you can get 10 romantic suspense tales from 10 bestselling authors, all for only 99 cents, why wouldn’t you pick up a copy?

How did this particular group of writers come together?

Dana Marton: Jill and I met online and we became instant friends. She is an excellent author with some serious marketing skills and so much energy it makes my head spin. We were talking about marketing our indie titles, and the idea of a multi-author boxed set came up. We invited more friends to the party, and DANGEROUS ATTRACTION was born. I still can’t believe that I’m in an anthology with some of my favorite authors!

What made you want to be a part of the project?

Lori Ryan: When Jill and Dana contacted me about the boxed set, there was simply no way to say no. The opportunity to work with such a great group of writers was much too good to pass up. Someday, I’ll be as good as all of the company I’m currently in… I hope.

Toni Anderson: Dana approached me with the idea and I jumped at the chance. I love getting to know other authors better, and the idea of reaching more readers was irresistible. The project has been a lot of hard work but it’s all been worth it.

What can readers expect to find in this boxed set?

Rebecca York: Edge of the seat romantic suspense coupled with a love story that will have you rooting for the hero and heroine’s HEA.

Toni Anderson: A real diversity of Romantic Suspense stories from sweet to super sexy, from complicated spy stories to classic women-in-jeopardy adventures.

Marie Astor: I would like to take this opportunity to thank the amazing authors of Dangerous Attraction Boxed Set. I’m truly honored to be included in such wonderful company! Readers will enjoys hours of entertainment from bestselling authors of romantic suspense: sexy CEOs, rogue heroes, romance, suspense – this boxed set has got it all!

*****
DANGEROUS ATTRACTION will be officially released November 10th, and the authors will celebrate the release with a 90% OFF SUPER SALE for 1 week only, pricing the entire boxed set at just 99 cents from November 10-16.

*****

Now for a look at Dangerous Attraction:

AMAZON US: http://amzn.to/18Ya4Oc
AMAZON UK: http://amzn.to/1ahU8nO
BARNES & NOBLE: http://bit.ly/1cJi4aH
SMASHWORDS: http://bit.ly/1bOocy8
KOBO: http://bit.ly/1gfq2J7
iBOOKS: http://bit.ly/1cmZDsi

From sweet to scorcher, these stories are a must read. It’s a mini-vacation for your mind for 99c! Fall in love with our sexy cops, tough military heroes, and hot CEOs. Treat yourself to an amazing reading experience by some of the top authors of romantic suspense.

DANGEROUS ATTRACTION includes the following 9 full-length novels:

Ignited by award-winning author and national bestselling author, Kaylea Cross – Can sexy ex-SEAL, Hunter keep Khalia safe from the men who took her father’s life? (Scorcher)

Secret Guardian by international bestselling author, Jill Sanders – Will ex-special forces hero, Ethan, save Ann in time, only to lose himself to love? (Scorcher)

Deathscape by Daphne du Maurier Award of Excellence recipient and Rita Award finalist, Dana Marton – Detective Jack Sullivan will do anything to put Ashley in prison for her crimes…even if he’s falling in love with her. (Sensual)

Legal Ease by award winning and national bestselling author Lori Ryan – Marrying Kelly solved the problems this steamy CEO faced at his company, but will he ever be able to forgive himself for the price she has to pay? (Scorcher)

The Killing Game by international bestselling author, Toni Anderson – Forced to choose between his country and his heart, British SAS Soldier, Ty Dempsey risks it all to save Axelle. (Sensual)

Fallen SEAL Legacy by national bestselling author, Sharon Hamilton – Will Navy SEAL Cooper be able to survive the loss of the woman he loves, or will his self-sacrifice be enough to keep Libby safe? (Scorcher)

Three Days in Seattle by national bestselling author, Debra Burroughs – A gorgeous Blonde, a kidnapped Sister, a handsome Stranger, and a vengeful Killer. The desperate race is on to find the sister before both women wind up dead. (Sweet)

See Me in Your Dreams by Patricia Rosemoor, Golden Heart Winner and two-time recipient of the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award – Her dreams allow her to see through his missing daughter’s eyes, but he thinks she’s a con woman…until she dreams of something known only to him and the girl. (Sensual)

Catching the Bad Guy by national bestselling author, Marie Astor – Top-notch white collar crime investigators Janet Maple and Dennis Walker team up to solve what could be the biggest case of their careers, but will their attraction to each other get in the way? (Sensual)

Bonus Christmas Novella, Christmas Captive by Romantic Times Career Achievement Award Winner and Rita Finalist, Ruth Glick – Her special sight let her glimpse the Christmases past of this international financier, but did he have a Christmas future?

November 11, 2013November 11, 2013

Release Day Blitz for Cynthia Eden

A Vampire’s Christmas Carol

Cynthia Eden

Blurb

This holiday season has bite.

Ben Prescott hates Christmas—he’s a vampire, and to him, there’s certainly nothing jolly about the holiday season. While the humans are running around being merry, he’s hunting in the shadows. Ben plans to spend the holidays his way…by stalking deadly prey.

Continue reading “Release Day Blitz for Cynthia Eden”

November 11, 2013November 11, 2013

Interview & giveaway with Amanda Forester

Can you please share with us a little about yourself

Thanks for inviting me to share with you today. I am excited to announce the release of my newest Regency novel, Midsummer Bride. I took a chance with this book and wrote an unconventional heroine – an American heiress who is more interested in scientific experiments than finding a husband. I see a little of myself in her and hope even science nerds can find love!

Have you always wanted to be an author?

I have always had stories floating around I my head, but I never thought of actually being a writer until a friend gave me a copy of a historical romance novel. When I read the story, it resonated with the stories I had in my head such that I wanted to try writing one myself.

Can you share with us your typical writing day. Is there anything you have to have while writing?

Because I also have a day job and a family it’s hard to say I have a “typical” writing day. Most of my writing happens when everyone else is in bed!

Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?

The most challenging part of writing is going back every day and continuing to slog along, even when I have no idea where I am going. The best part about writing is getting to watch the characters that have been running around my brain come alive on the page.

Can you please tell us about your latest book?

Midsummer Bride was just released last week and is my second in the Marriage Mart trilogy (but you can read the books in any order!) Miss Harriet Burton, a horrendously rich American heiress, laughs too loud, states her opinion directly, and even conducts science experiments. Her aristocratic uncle is desperate to get her off his hands and is offering a king’s ransom to anyone able to arrange a suitable marriage that comes with a title. In contrast, Harriet’s interests lie in science, returning to America, and avoiding matrimony, until she meets Duncan Maclachlan, Earl of Thornton. When Thornton is falsely accused of being a traitor, Harriet must use her knowledge of chemistry to find the real culprit and spark true romance.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

I grew interested in writing an American heroine when I discovered how English ships of this time were patrolling the newly formed American waters, seizing American vessels, and since American citizenship was not recognized, impressing American sailors into service for the Royal Navy. And all this was legal under British law! Of course the Americans felt differently about this and it was one of the reasons for the War of 1812. Anyway, I began to wonder what would happen to an American heiress who gets caught up in one of these raids and is taken back to England, hence Midsummer Bride.

Can you share with us your current work in progress?

I am currently finishing Winter Wedding, which completes the trilogy and the story of Miss Penelope Rose, marriage matchmaker, and the Duke of Marchford, marriage avoider, who are featured prominently in all three Marriage Mart books (Wedding in Springtime, Midsummer Bride, and Winter Wedding).

Who are some of your favorite authors?

There are so many I can hardly count, but I know Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer definitely drew me into writing in the Regency period. I especially enjoy books with a lively plot and a dose of humor!

Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style?

We all stand on the shoulders of the authors who have come before us, particularly those pioneers of historical romance who have established the genre. However, when I write I tend to look inward at my own stories and characters. It is tremendously rewarding to see the characters who have inhabited my brain come alive on the page.

Open your book to a random page and please reads us a few lines.

Ok, this is fun! I have randomly opened to page 180.

“Legend has it the faeries and other fey creatures come out to play on Midsummer’s Night Eve. So for centuries people have been building bonfires to keep away unwanted spirits intent on causing mischief,” said Thornton.

“Like Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream?” asked Harriet.

“Precisely. Best to keep out of the forest lest that mischievous sprite Puck give ye a love potion.”

“Disastrous! I shall stay away!” She wondered how she could arrange a meeting with this Puck. Might be useful to have a love potion.

Thornton smiled. “Aye, beware the faeries.”

If he knew what she was thinking he would do well to beware of her.

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

Christmas novellas. I’m crazy about them! I love reading short holiday themed stories around the holidays. Now if I could just finish my work in progress!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thanks so much for inviting me. I hope a little Midsummer Bride will warm your hearts this holiday season! I love to hear from readers so come visit me at my website, facebook, or twitter.

Amazon | B&N
Love is one experiment this scientist hasn’t tested…

Miss Harriet Burton, a horrendously rich American heiress, laughs too loud, states her opinion directly, and even conducts science experiments. Her uncle is desperate to get her off his hands and is offering a king’s ransom to anyone able to arrange a suitable marriage that comes with a title.

To avoid marriage, Harriet swears off all men, until she meets Duncan Maclachlan, Earl of Thornton. But when Thornton is falsely accused of being a traitor, Harriet must use her knowledge of chemistry to find the real culprit and spark true romance.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

November 8, 2013November 6, 2013

Spotlight Feature, Excerpt and giveaway with Laura Wright

ETERNAL SIN

Mark of the Vampire, Book 6

Available November 5, 2013

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon | B&N | Kobo

Love and Vengeance…

The violent attack left Synjon destroyed and his lover dead—at the will of the evil vampire Cruen. Syn’s passionate savior was Petra. When she became pregnant with his child, it should have been a blessing—until Syn vanished after discovering the truth: Petra was the daughter of the man he despised above all others. The daughter of Cruen.

When Petra’s health begins to decline, she contacts Syn to help save their baby. Though reluctant to see Petra, he cannot turn his back on his own innocent child. But night after night, as his feelings for Petra are rekindled, Syn becomes increasingly torn.

Although everyone assumes that Cruen is dead, Syn is not convinced—and is still hell-bent on finding and destroying him once and for all. But will his thirst for vengeance keep him from seeing what is really worth living for before it is too late?

ETERNAL SIN Snippet #6

“You drank from him, didn’t you?” Dani called over her thickly feathered shoulder to Petra as they flew past a stand of teak that housed three of the Avian’s twenty-two nesting grounds.

Avoiding her best friend’s massive wings, Petra leaned forward and wrapped her arms around the hawk’s neck. “Of course I did.”

“Well, I hope you drained him dry. I hope he could barely breathe. I hope he was coughing and sputtering and losing consciousness—”

“I get it, Dani,” she shouted over the wind. “You want him to suffer.”

Dani glanced back, her hawk eyes flashing with ire. “Did he tell you how close he came to having sex with me?”

“No, you told me, remember?” Petra returned.

“Of course, for me,” Dani went on, “it was all part of the act. We needed to get him alone, get him as vulnerable as possible. He’s a total manwhore, and last night I made sure he chose me.”

This wasn’t a subject Petra felt all that comfortable with. Especially a second time. And yet she couldn’t seem to stop herself from asking, “So, if Sasha and Val were late or hadn’t shown up, were you actually going to—”

“Fuck him?” Dani called back, sounding appalled before she actually snorted. “Hell to the no.”

“You make it sound like a fate worse than death, Dani. The guy’s incredibly hot. And the things he can do . . .” What the hell am I doing? She shook her head. It felt like someone else was running her mouth.

“I don’t want to hear about his magic tongue,” Dani shouted.

Heat flared in Petra’s cheeks. “You can stop now.”

Dani laughed. “Fine, then. His magic penis.”

“Okay,” Petra said, completely mortified now. “I think we should play the quiet game, don’t you?”

“No. I don’t.” And just to send that message home, Dani dive-bombed into the forest, pulled up right before they would have hit the ground, and then started serpentining through the trees.

Petra gripped the hawk’s feathers, her mouth dry as she panted with fear. “That was unnecessary,” she called through gritted teeth.

“I don’t think so,” Dani called back. “You need your brain shaken up, reworked. You’re talking about this guy being all hot and everything, and all I can think is he screwed my best friend, got her preggers, and couldn’t care less.”

Petra winced. Her best friend’s words cut deep. As they were meant to. “You know my father took away his emotions. He couldn’t feel a thing now even if he wanted to.”

The hawk made an irritated sound. “Are you seriously defending him?”

“No.” And she wasn’t. That would be insane. That would make her foolish and optimistic, and worse yet, a glutton for punishment.

“You totally are,” Dani returned. “Please tell me that blood you took from him didn’t shatter the reality of the here and now, and his major dickhood.”

TOUR GIVEWAY:

Laura is giving away a $10.00 Amazon card at EVERY blog stop.

To Enter please leave your name, email address and tell me who is your favorite Vampire.

*****

Now a look at the rest of the Mark of the Vampire Series:

*****

ETERNAL HUNGER

Mark of the Vampire, Book 1

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / B&N / Audible.com / Tantor Audio

FEAR IS IN THE BLOOD

Alexander Roman wants nothing to do with the controlling rulers of his vampire breed or the family he escaped from a hundred years ago. But as a new threat to the pureblood vampires emerges, Alexander’s ties to the past are forced upon him again, and without warning, he finds himself – disoriented, terrified, and near death – at the door of a stranger.

TRUST IS A RISK

Dr. Sarah Donohue is dedicated to removing the traumatic memories of her patients – like those of the stranger at her front door. But what he tells her of his past is too astonishing to be anything more than the delusion of a madman. Yet she has seen his flesh scarred by the sun and witnessed his inhuman strength. And never more has she felt so conneted to a man, by both fear and seductive excitement.

LOVE IS ETERNAL …

But as their worlds collide, Sarah and Alexander are bound by something even stronger, as one becomes hunter and the other prey. And Sarah’s only chance of survival is to surrender to the final – and most unimaginable – desire of her life.

*****

ETERNAL KISS

Mark of the Vampire, Book 2

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / B&N / Audible.com / Tantor Audio

Sacrifice will be their downfall. And their resurrection.

Family is blood.

His father unknown, his mother dead, Nicholas Roman was raised by the vampire Breed with one wish: to live as a normal vampire. But once he’s transformed against his will into a gifted immortal, Nicholas now has one goal: to stop the Eternal Order of vampires from controlling his life and from transforming more males from his bloodline for their vicious reign. Then comes a beautiful stranger with a startling secret.

Vampire Kate Everborne claims she’s sheltering Nicholas’ long-lost son. If this is true, then who is the mother? And how endangered are they if, indeed, Nicholas does possess the bloodline so coveted by the Order? These are questions that with every seductive whisper, every silken touch, draw Nicholas and Kate intimately closer and nearer still to the truth. But aroused too are Nicholas’ fears that this tantalizing woman has even more secrets—both dangerous and provocative—she has yet to share.

*****

ETERNAL BLOOD

Mark of the Vampire E-special, Book 2.5

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / B&N / Kobo

Gray Donahue is crippled by the guilt he feels for his father’s death. An Impure vampire cursed with the ability to hear the thoughts of others, he indulges in blood and sex to stave off the pain of his existence. He is then abducted by the Eternal Order of Vampires, who subject him to a nightmarish ritual. But when he is rescued by the icy pureblood vampire Dillon, he finds something that is worth living for, dying for, killing for….

*****

ETERNAL CAPTIVE

Mark of the Vampire, Book 3

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Lucian Roman knows he must stay away from Bronwyn Kettler for sanity’s sake. Since feeding her his blood, he can think of nothing else but possessing her—fighting an uncontrollable desire to kill her, if need be, and the vampire she has sworn to wed.

Bronwyn, a brilliant vampire genealogist, can never escape her connection to Lucian. He sustained her when she was starving. He still rules her dreams. And when the nights get dark enough, she still craves him. Though his essence still courses through her body, she has found a true mate in someone else.

But when a dangerous enemy threatens Bronwyn, only Lucian—bound to her forever by blood—can save her life. Even if it means sacrificing his own…

*****

ETERNAL BEAST

Mark of the Vampire, Book 4

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Ever since his abduction by the Eternal Order of Vampires, Gray Donohue has finally found his true calling: vengeance. He will stop at nothing to bring his fellow Impure vampires the freedom they deserve. Now if he could just release his primal need for the beautiful vampire who saved his life-and rules his thoughts and desires . . .

After nearly killing the senator she was assigned to protect, Dillon is now in mortal danger. The jaguar within her has been unleashed, and she can no longer control it. Sex is the only thing that can tame her shift. And Gray is the only man who can make her surrender to a passion strong enough to overpower her inner beast. But she doesn’t want to surrender-she wants her life back. Because she is determined never to belong to anyone, especially not Gray-the man who destiny claims is her mate.

*****

ETERNAL BEAUTY

Mark of the Vampire Series E-special, Book 4.5

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

He is captivated by the one who saved him from death—until he finds out who she is…

When his lover is murdered by evil vampire-beast, Cruen, the grief-stricken Synjon Wise believes his life over. Enraged, he flashes her away to a remote spot in South America to give his beloved’s body a proper burial. But when the sun blazes overhead and takes her body before his eyes, Synjon’s mind completely unravels. Mad with the need to join her, he walks into the sun a morphed male, prepared to die.

He awakens to find himself amongst a breed known as Shifters. As he is nursed back to health by Petra, who saved his life, Synjon feels no gratitude—only anger and guilt that he is still alive. But this female is strong and refuses to let Syn waste away. For the bond that will form between them will be enduring: as nurse and patient, male and female, savior and saved.

Betrayer and betrayed

*****

ETERNAL DEMON

Mark of the Vampire, Book 5

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

When Erion’s son is kidnapped by the evil vampire Cruen, Erion vows to stop at nothing to find his hideaway—including intercepting the traveling party of Cruen’s beautiful bride-to-be. But instead of a vulnerable caravan, Erion is met by a feral band of female demons that includes Hellen, the bride—a creature of dark magic and darker passion.

Though the safety of his son is foremost, Erion can’t deny his unexpected connection to Hellen—inflaming a manic desire as primal as it is irresistible. As their bond intensifies, they move toward an inevitable and terrifying battle. With time running out, Erion realizes he must not only find and rescue his son but protect Hellen from Cruen and the underworld forces waiting to destroy her for her betrayal.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Author of the Bestselling Mark of the Vampire series, Laura Wright spent the early years of her life immersed in the worlds of singing, acting and competitive ballroom dancing. But when she started writing, she knew she’d found her true calling. Laura lives in Los Angeles, California with her husband, two children, three dogs, two frogs and two fish. She’s been thrice nominated for a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award, and loves hearing from her readers.

Connect with Laura:

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

November 8, 2013November 7, 2013

Interview & Tour Wide Giveaway with Jessica Lee

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to have Jessica Lee on the blog again today.

Jessica, can you please share with us a little about yourself

Let’s see… I’m a wife, mother, former science geek with a passion for writing romance novels filled with alpha male characters who bite.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Believe it or not, if someone had told me 20 years ago that I’d end up becoming a published author, I would have sworn they were crazy. Back in college, I would drop a course if I had to write a paper. lol I just don’t think I’d found the right inspiration until later in life when I picked up my first paranormal romance.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

Possibly that I’m neither a plotter or a pantzer. lol I’m a little of both worlds. I always know the beginning of a new story and how it may end, and then I plot a little bit at a time as I go along.

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

My latest release is Undying Embrace, A Novel of the Enclave, book two.

In Undying Embrace we learn more about Enclave warrior Arran MacLain and the female member of the team, Gabrielle Stevens who’s claimed his heart. Both carry a ton of baggage from their past, and because of those issues, they continue to fight their attraction.

Arran is vampire on a mission to find his partner, Markus, the male who betrayed not only him but the Enclave. During his search, he runs into Gabrielle who is on a mission herself to locate her missing sister. Together, they have to put aside their personal pain and join forces to fight the evil that’s invaded both their worlds.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

As with most of my stories, I usually have no idea how they pop into my head. lol This is book two, so Arran and Gabrielle’s story had already sparked in Undying Destiny. Somehow my characters invent themselves inside my head and come to life as I pen their story.

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

Currently I’m working on book three in the Ariel Estate series, Breaking the Ice. This series features my lion shifters! Next, I return to finishing book four in the Enclave series. Book three, Undying Desire, I expect Entangled Publishing to release the novel sometime in early 2014.

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

I’ve met Karen Marie Moning briefly once before at a luncheon and book signing, but it would be such an honor and amazing to spend a work day with her and pick her brain. lol For me, she is a master story teller!

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?

Never give up, and never stop honing your craft. In my opinion, no matter how long you’ve been writing, there is always something more to learn.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

My bucket list…hmm…I’ve always wanted to travel through Ireland and Scotland on an extended vacation and tour all the beautiful castles.

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

Oh, that would be Styxx by Sherrilyn Kenyon. It’s next on my list followed by KMM’s upcoming release Burned!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you so much Books ‘n Kisses for the opportunity to stop by on my tour! Great questions!

*****

Amazon| B&N

Goodreads

Arran MacLain is a vampire on a suicide mission, driven to kill his former partner who betrayed him and the Enclave they served. But two things stand in his way: Gabrielle, the human female who holds his heart, and the past that won’t let him go. If only death was enough to cleanse his soul.

Gabrielle Steven’s sister is missing. Her hunt for clues brings her face to face with the one vampire she can’t forget. Their missions combine and thrust them into the heart of evil. Will their passion be enough to overcome the pain from their past, or will their dark desires destroy them both?

Giveaway

Giveaway Info:Carolina Cool Charleston Gift Basket & $20 Amazon GC.

If International $50 Amazon E-giftcard http ://www .shop .carpentiersgourmetbaskets .com /Carolina –Cool –Charleston –Gift –Basket –Carolina –Cool .htm

RC to be provided by Entangled.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Author bio:

Almost every author’s bio states they’ve been writing since they learned how to read. It’s what they’ve always wanted to do. Well, my journey wasn’t so straight and narrow. I was a nurse for over twenty years and hold a bachelor’s degree in science with a major in biology. So as you can see, my career path had originally gone in the opposite direction. I didn’t discover my passion for the craft until after I’d had my son and decided to work part-time.

I’ve always loved to read but had never read a paranormal romance. Then one night at work on break, I began reading Karen Marie Moning’s Spell of the Highlander. I couldn’t believe what I’d been missing, and I immediately fell in love with the genre.

I wanted to write like that. I wanted to create worlds where others could find the same escape and fascination I did when I read my first sensual paranormal romance.

And I hope that’s what I’ve accomplished in my work. Please dive in, hold on tight, and enjoy the adventure. Just be careful in the dark—you might find more than you expected waiting for you there.

Jessica Lee lives in the southeastern United States with her husband and son. She loves writing and can’t wait for that quiet time each day when her son is in school, and she can get lost in another place and world with the fantastical, sexy creatures in her head.

She’s a member of Romance Writers of America, FF&P, and Carolina Romance Writers.

Website Blog Twitter Facebook Goodreads Contact

Tour dates – 10/21-11/8

10/23: Guest Blog – Kayla’s Place

10/24: Interview/Review – Book Cellar

10/25: Interview or Tens List – Laurie’s Thoughts

10/28: Guest blog – Romantic Reads and Such

11/1: Guest post – Books to Get Lost In

11/2: Spotlight – In Shadows

11/2: Spotlight – You Gotta Read Reviews

11/3: Spotlight – Indie Authors Books and More

11/4: Interview – Becky on Books

11/5: Guest Post/Spotlight – Lusty Penguin Reviews

11/5: Spotlight – My Erotic Notions

11/6: Guest blog/ review – Literal Hotties Naughty Book Reviews

11/7: Spotlight – Mary H. Collins – Author

11/7: Spotlight – As the Page Turns

11/8: Interview – Books n Kisses

11/8: Interview – Romance with Flavor

November 6, 2013October 4, 2013

Interview & Awesome Giveaway with Julie Ann Walker

Welcome back to Books-n-Kisses Julie Ann.

For those who missed your prior visits can you please share with us a little about yourself
Julie: Hello! *waves* My name is Julie Ann Walker. I write the bestselling Black Knights Inc. romantic suspense series. I’m addicted to three things: coffee, handbags, and shoes. I adore travelling and hope to visit 100 countries before I die – so far I’ve been to 43, which means I still have a lot of plane rides ahead of me. LOL! I’ve been married fifteen years to the love of my life. And I ride my bicycle everyday when the weather is nice.

Have you always wanted to be an author?
Julie: Well, I got my degree in mathematics, so I suppose the answer to this question in no. 😉 On the other hand, I’ve always written. It’s just that I treated it more like a hobby because I figured the dream of actually becoming a published author was too big, unattainable for the likes of little ol’ me. Imagine my surprise, then, when first a literary agent, and then a publisher actually wanted to print my books. LOL!

Are you a plotter or a pantser or combo of both? And can you explain the difference?
Julie: I’m a pantser all the way – meaning I write by the seat of my pants. A plotter is someone who outlines their books beforehand, thinking through all the ins and outs, devising all the plot twists and character arcs. Sometimes I wish I could do that. It certainly seems more efficient. But, alas, my method it to just sit down at the keyboard and go… letting the story take me where it will. Yeehaw! *wink*

What is your most interesting writing quirk?
Julie: I don’t know how interesting it is, but I’m obsessed with post-it notes. If I have an idea about what should happen 20 pages further along in the book, I use a post-it note. If something has occurred to me that should be added to a scene I’ve already written, I use a post-it note. If I have an upcoming book reading or signing, I use a post-it note. If I have a payment due for, say, a conference or something, I use a post-it note. My office looks like total mayhem, but it’s actually quite organized. Just DON’T TOUCH MY POST-ITS! Or I might have to murder you… *gives the evil eye*

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?
Julie: I’d love to! So, Born Wild is sort of the book BKI fans have been waiting for. The hero and heroine, Wild Bill Reichert and Eve Edens, have been dancing around each other since the beginning of the series. We know there’s history between them… deep, dark, delicious history. And in this book we finally find out what all the hot fuss is about. Plus, in standard BKI form, there’s a devious villain, some flying bullets, kick butt motorcycles, and, of course, smokin’ hot sexy times. 😉

How did you come with the idea for this story?
Julie: Like most of my books, I pulled this one straight out of my… ahem… you know. *shakes head* I never know where exactly the story will take me until I’m actually finished with it.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
Julie: Absolutely! I’ve just started working on the seventh book in the series. It’s hero is BKI’s crazy cool Latin lover, Carlos “Steady” Santos. And the heroine is the President’s daughter, Abigail Thompson. There’s a kidnapping, ransom demands, a race through Southeast Asia, and some sweet lovin’ that’s guaranteed to set the pages on fire. I’m having a blast writing it!

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?
Julie: I would kill to meet Suzanne Brockmann. She is the reigning queen of romantic suspense, and she’s the entire reason I started writing in the genre. If I ever get the opportunity to meet her, I’ll likely prostrate myself at her feet. So if you see me on the floor of a hotel lobby, kissing some woman’s toes, you’ll know it’s Suz Brockmann standing before me. *snicker*

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?
Julie: Read, write, read, write, rinse, and repeat until you’ve got something that’s ready to be put out into the world!

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.
Julie: I would love to live abroad in Ireland for a year. It’s one of my most favorite spots on the planet. The pubs, the Guinness, the soda bread, the fields of heather, the blarney… *sigh* Heaven.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
Julie: My friend, Amanda Carlson, writes some of the best Urban Fantasy out there. The third book in her series, Cold Blooded, debuted about a month ago, and I can’t wait to dig in!

What is one book everyone should read before they die?
Julie: Gone With The Wind… without a doubt. I’ve read it at least a dozen times. And every time, I find something new and wonderful about the story. Scarlett is such a difficult heroine. She’s so complicated and easy to hate, yet she’s amazingly strong and resilient. I love characters that are deeply three-dimensional.

What is your favorite time of year & why?
Julie: Summer! I’m outdoorsy. And when I can’t go out and play, I get – as my husband so delicately puts it – cranky. 😉

Who is your Celebrity crush? And what would you do if you ever meet them?
Julie: Currently, I’m a bit enamored of Tom Hardy. I mean, those lips. Hubba, hubba. If I ever met him? Well, I’ll probably try to steal a kiss. Just a quick one. Nothing to get me in trouble with Mr. Walker. LOL!

Is there anything else you would like to add?
Julie: Just a giant cyber hug and my heartfelt thanks for having me back on Books-N-Kisses. This is always such a treat!

BORN WILD

IN STORES NOVEMBER 2013

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Julie Ann Walker dives back into action with the red-hot romantic suspense Black Knights Inc. series! They claim they’re bad-boy bikers who own custom motorcycle shop, but these special-ops guys–a mix of Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, Marines, FBI and more–handle the jobs too tough for the government to tackle.

TICK…TICK…

“Wild” Bill Reichert knows a thing or two about explosives. The ex-Navy SEAL can practically rig a bomb blindfolded. But there’s no way to diffuse the inevitable fireworks the day Eve Edens walks back into his life, asking for help…

BOOM!

Eve doesn’t know what to do when the Chicago police won’t believe someone is out to hurt her. The only place to turn is Black Knights Inc—after all, no one is better at protection than the covert special-ops team. Yet there’s also no one better at getting her all turned on than Billy Reichert. She has a feeling this is one blast from the past that could backfire big time…

PRAISE FOR BORN WILD:

“One heck of a riveting plotline… Born Wild is definitely not to be missed!” —RT Book Reviews, 4 ½ Stars

“A wild roller coaster ride of a story… Nonstop action.” —Fresh Fiction

“Drama, danger and sexual tension… Romantic suspense at its best.” —Night Owl Reviews, 5/5 Stars, Reviewer Top Pick

A little about Julie Ann:

Julie Ann Walker is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Black Knights Inc. romantic suspense series. She is prone to spouting movie quotes and song lyrics, and prefers impromptu travel over the scheduled kind. You can find her on her bicycle along the lake shore in Chicago or blasting away at her keyboard, trying to wrangle her capricious imagination into submission. For more information, please visit www.julieannwalker.com or follow her on Facebook, www.facebook.com/jawalkerauthor, and Twitter, @JAWalkerAuthor.

You ready for an awesome giveaway?????

Check out the rafflecopter below for details.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

November 5, 2013October 15, 2013

Interview with TJ Bennett

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome TJ Bennett to the blog today .

TJ, can you please share with us a little about yourself
My father was career military, so I traveled quite a bit in my youth. I’ve been all over Europe, visited Morocco, and even managed to hit Australia in my older years. I think that is where my love of historicals comes from. Seeing all that history up close. I’ve also been a contract negotiator, an educator, a ghostwriter, a cake decorator, an editor, a dissertation reviewer, and currently I coordinate professional development programs for the staff of a state university in East Texas. I know, it sounds like I can’t hold down a job, right? Learn more about TJ here: Website Blog Twitter Goodreads Newsletter

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Pretty much since I was eight years old. I stopped to do other things for a while (see my response to your first question), but the desire has always been in there somewhere.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?
I always have to go edit the last few pages I wrote before I can move on to the next part. It is my way of getting back into the mood and character of the story. That, and the munchies. Must have munchies when I write. That might be why I suffer from what is affectionately (or lamentably) known as “writer’s bottom (insert your own euphemism here).”

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

When young widow Catherine Briton is washed ashore, the sole survivor of a violent shipwreck, all she wants is to go home to London. But injured as she is, she can’t escape when a shadowy stranger rescues her and takes her to his castle—where she’s healed with suspicious, almost magical speed.

The more time Catherine spends in the castle, the more her curiosity rises where her fiercely handsome new “master,” Gerard, is concerned. As she begins to investigate, though, her discoveries only bring more questions. It seems Gerard isn’t the only one on the island keeping secrets…The small town is full of strange mysteries and townspeople who know more than they should about her. And when a hulking beast that stalks the nearby hills and valleys catches up to her, Catherine must figure out what’s going on before it’s too late.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

The first line of the book came to me, and it just spun out from there. I felt much of the time I was working on it that the book was writing itself. It really isn’t like anything I’ve ever done before.

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

I’m working on a late-Victorian set piece that has a lot of drawing room wit in it. At least I hope it does. I’m enjoying the characters and their banter and repartee. The characters are showing up fully realized, another thing that is unusual for me, and it looks like there might be more than one story to tell there—several intriguing characters in star-crossed lover sort of tales. We’ll have to wait and see.

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

Laura Kinsale. She is just brilliant. Her characters are multi-layered, complex, her research is extensive and yet seamlessly woven into the story and she always does something unexpected and smart. I’d love to just talk to her and find out how her brain works.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?

Make sure you do your homework, pay your dues, have very thick skin, and a whole lotta patience, because you are going to need it! Also, don’t give up your day job. It can take a long time for you to hit it big, if ever, no matter how talented you are.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

I have always wanted to travel to Alaska by ship. And I’d love to go back to Scotland and do the Highlands and Islands tour this time. My husband and I went to Scotland early on in our marriage before the kids were born and we’ve talked about going back and seeing what we missed, but there never seems to be time.

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

I actually like the Richard Castle mystery books. They are quite good, and since I love the TV show, I can picture the characters behaving the way they do in the show. I’ve downloaded the latest but haven’t read it yet. I’m also anxious to get started on JK Rowling’s nom de plum book The Cuckoo’s Calling.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thanks for letting me visit! I hope your readers get a chance to read Dark Angel.

Amazon | B&N

The small town is full of strange mysteries and townspeople who know more than they should about her. And when a hulking beast that stalks the nearby hills and valleys catches up to her, Catherine must figure out what’s going on before it’s too late.

Find more tour stops here:

10/22: Spotlight – http://www.authormaryhcollins.com/blog.html

10/23: Guest post – Bea’s Book Nook http://beasbooknook.blogspot.com/

10/24: Guest Blog – Romantic Reads and Such – http://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpress.com/

10/25: Spotlight/Review – Lusty Penguin Reviews – www.lustypenguin.com

10/26: Spotlight – Indie Authors Books & More – http://indieauthorsbooksandmore.blogspot.com/

10/27: Tens list or interview – Laurie’s Thoughts http://lauriethoughts-reviews.blogspot.com/

10/28: Guest post – Mark of the Stars http://markofthestars.com/

10/29: Guest post – Books to Get Lost In – http://bookstogetlostin.blogspot.com/

10/30: Spotlight – Deal Sharing Aunt –http://dealsharingaunt.com

11/1: Spotlight – In Shadows – http://brynnacurryguests.blogspot.com

11/3: Interview – Romance with Flavor – http://www.romancewithflavor.com

11/4: Spotlight – Must Read Faster – http://mustreadfaster.blogspot.com

11/5: Interview – Books n Kisses – http://books-n-kisses.com

11/6: Interview – Becky on Books (http://beckymmoe.com)

11/6: 2nd stop – Spotlight – http://www.myeroticnotions.blogspot.com/ (Daryl Devore)

11/7: Spotlight – Le Book Squirrel – http://lebooksquirrel.blogspot.com/

11/8: Interview – You Gotta Read Reviews – http://yougottaread.com

November 5, 2013October 28, 2013

Guest blog & giveaway with Cynthia D’Alba

May I Have This Dance?

Hi All! Cynthia D’Alba here. Thanks to Books-N-Kisses to having me here today to celebrate the release of my newest book, TEXAS TANGO. It’s the second book in the Texas Montgomery Mavericks Series. (It follows Texas Two Step released last year.)

I wrote a scene that takes place at a country club dance. Growing up, a “country club dance” was the height of social activities. It meant a fancy dress (preferably new!) and a date wearing a suit (instead of jeans (of questionable cleanliness) and a polo (instead of a T-shirt if you were a special date!) Writing the scene stirred up quite a few nice memories, like the time mom made me a full hoop skirt dress and if I didn’t sit down just right, the front of my dress would flip over my head! I think I might have been channeling Scarlet O’Hara at the time.

In TEXAS TANGO, the dance is being held at Whispering Springs Country Club as a fundraiser for the local high school football team. In the south (since I’m Southern, born and raised, I have no idea what it’s like in the rest of the country!), the combination of a country club dance with high school football is much like peanut butter and chocolate. They go together so well. Let me give you a taste of the scene…

Travis took Caroline’s hand, interrupting her conversation with KC’s brothers. “If you’ll excuse me, I have to get my date on the dance floor before she finds someone else to dance with.”

“Nice to meet all of you,” Caroline said with a wave. “Get me on the dance floor?” she whispered.

“If we don’t move on, we’ll be there talking to them for hours. I know my uncle. He’ll talk ranching until my ears fall off my head.”

“Got it. So are we really headed to dance?”

“Sure.” He swung her around and caught her with a hand at her waist.

She put both hands on his strong shoulders. No padding needed in his jacket. All man and all muscle. And for tonight—and the next four months—he was all hers. A dangerous trill raced through her. She slipped her hands up and around his neck. As though of a mind of their own, her fingers stroked the back of his neck. Up and down and then around in a circle.

He hissed out a long breath. He tightened his hands at her waist. Jerking her snug against him, he whispered, “You are the sexiest woman in this entire room. And if you don’t stay close, everybody else will know exactly the effect you are having on me.”

The hard evidence of his arousal pressed firmly into her stomach. His chest vibrated against hers as he hummed along with the song. She found herself perversely pleased by how comfortable she felt in his arms.

But on the other hand, maybe she needed to get a hold on her feelings. They had no future beyond this fall. She had to keep telling herself that.

As the song came to its closing note, Travis hugged her before ending the dance with a deep dip. She laughed with delight. Travis grinned and then brushed her mouth with a quick kiss.

Curious about TEXAS TANGO? Here’s a little more:

Texas Montgomery Mavericks

Book 2

Dr. Caroline Graham is happy with her nomadic lifestyle fulfilling short-term medical contracts. No emotional commitments, no disappointments. She’s always the one to walk away, never the one left behind. But now her great-uncle is gone and her grandmother is on her deathbed, more concerned about Caroline’s lack of a husband than her own demise. What’s the harm in a little white lie? If a wedding will give her grandmother peace, then a wedding she shall have.

Travis Montgomery has one dream left—to build the ranch he and his wife planned before he lost her to cancer. There’s just one thing standing between him and the last bit of acreage he needs—a last living heir who has one traveling foot out the door…and an unusual request that challenges his determination to never again place his heart at risk. The land he wants in exchange for a faux marriage. Everyone wins. Until things start to snowball…and the hearts they stand to lose are their own.

Want more? Click HERE to read the opening to Texas Tango.

TEXAS TANGO is available at your favorite online bookstore or use one of the links below:

Amazon | Samhain | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

Is this your first time to come across me? Here’s a little more about Cynthia D’Alba: I was born and raised in a small Arkansas town. After being gone for a number of years, I’m thrilled to be making my home back in Arkansas living in a vine-covered cottage on the banks of an eight-thousand acre lake. I started writing on a challenge from my husband in 2006 and discovered having imaginary sex with lots of hunky men was fun.

My first book, Texas Two Step, released in 2012 to outstanding reviews, was a Samhain Publishing best seller. The second book in the Texas Montgomery Mavericks series, Texas Tango, released November 5, 2013, again from Samhain Publishing. In February, 2014, Texas Fandango, a Novella in the Texas Montgomery Series will be released by Samhain Publishing. I am currently at work on book 3 of the Texas Montgomery Mavericks series (Texas Twist).

I love love love to hear from readers and there are lots of ways to find me. Online, you can find me most days at my website or my group blog.

Follow me at Facebook, Twitter, Google +, Goodreads or Pinterest.

or email me at cynthia@cynthiadalba.com

To send me snail mail, write to: Cynthia D’Alba PO Box 2116 Hot Springs, AR 71914

So now for the fun stuff! J

I want to know about the dances you went to as a teen. Are country club dances in your history? What about high school football…was it a big deal where you grew up? What’s your favorite dance or high school football memory?

In the spirit of Christmas sneaking up on us, I’ll pick among the comments for someone to take home a western-themed ornament. Here’s just a sample…

Plus, I doing a jewelry-themed For my TEXAS TANGO Jewelry-Themed Rafflecopter Giveaway. Be sure and look for the Rafflecopter widget at the end of the post. Also check out my personal blog for other places you can enter! Here’s the loot you can win…

AND I have freebies for the asking! But when it’s gone, it’s gone. Pens, jar openers, postcards, bookmarks, trading cards…just go by my contact page and send me a note.

Thanks for coming by! Be sure to leave a comment for a chance to win one of the Christmas ornaments!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

November 4, 2013November 1, 2013

Cover Reveal of Christmas in July by Debbie Mason

Thanks for taking part in our cover reveal! I’m so excited to share the cover for CHRISTMAS IN JULY with you. I love Grace and Jack’s second-chance story and art director Diane Luger and her talented team have created the perfect cover. I’m not sure they even realize just how perfect it is.

Every detail, big and small, reveals something about the story. The house is similar to the old Victorian on Sugar Plum Lane that Grace has dreamed of buying since she moved to town. Although Grace’s dream home is pink, yellow was the perfect choice. The bright, cheerful color makes me think of sunshine and light; our wounded hero and heroine’s journey to joy and happiness. The old Victorian plays an integral role in Jack and Grace’s story as it’s part of their conflict and their happy ending.

A blue door symbolizes refuge, calm, and loyalty. And a white picket fence represents home sweet home. Red roses in full bloom mean “I still love you.” Something Grace struggles with. While she’s in love with her husband, she has legitimate reasons for doubting his love for her. The yellow ribbons show support for the military. Jack is a Black Hawk pilot who has been MIA for seventeen months. They’re a symbol of hope, of waiting for a loved one to come home, and forgiveness. Jack returns to a town he never thought of as home, a wife and son he doesn’t remember. By the end of the book, with the help of his family and the citizens of Christmas, Jack realizes that home is where the heart is.

I hope Jack, Grace, and little Jack will capture your heart as they have captured mine. You can meet Grace in the first book in the series, THE TROUBLE WITH CHRISTMAS, as she struggles to raise her son, keep her bakery afloat, and hold on to the hope her husband will come home. The first chapter of CHRISTMAS IN JULY is also included in the book.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY (Forever Mass Market; June 24, 2014; 9781455527694; $8.00)

Amazon |B&N

Grace Flaherty had given up hope of ever seeing her husband again. After all, it’s been over a year since he went missing in combat. So when he strides through the door of her bakery in downtown Christmas one sunny afternoon, she can hardly believe her eyes. But her happily-ever-after is going to take some effort – because Jack has no memory of his family.

All Jack Flaherty remembers about Christmas is that he couldn’t wait to leave town. Now he’s a local hero with a wife and son he doesn’t know. Even as he struggles to rekindle the romance with his wife, he knows in his heart what he wants: a second chance at love.

About Debbie Mason:

Praised as a “writer to watch” by RT Book Reviews, Debbie Mason also writes Scottish-set historical paranormals as Debbie Mazzuca. Her MacLeod series debuted in April 2010 and is said to “combine the passion of Hannah Howell’s Highand romances with the seductive fantasy of Karen Marie Moning’s bestsellers.”

Connect with Debbie here: Author’s Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

November 4, 2013November 3, 2013

Spotlight feature of Far Too Tempting by Lauren Blakely

Far Too Tempting

Lauren Blakely

Amazon| B&N

Goodreads

Jane Black has written the breakup album of the century, earning her a Grammy, a huge legion of new fans, and the pressure to repeat her success. Sure, the heartbreak from her husband’s unconventional abandonment might have been her inspiration, but it hasn’t done her any favors in the dating department. So when Matthew Harrigan, the toughest music journalist out there, asks for an interview, Jane agrees—as long as her personal life is completely off-limits.

British, gorgeous, and way too tempting, Matthew’s the first guy Jane’s been attracted to since her husband. As she spends more time with him and their relationship heats up, though, so does her writer’s block. How can the queen of the break up pen the perfect follow-up when she’s seriously in love?

Author Bio:

Lauren Blakely is an unabashed fan of clever jokes, toast, and good guys in novels. Like the heroine in CAUGHT UP IN US, she thinks life should be filled with movie kisses and coffee drinks. Lauren lives in California with her husband and children, and spends her days writing both true stories and make-believe ones.

Website Blog Twitter Facebook Goodreads Newsletter

Far Too Tempting - Lauren Blakely - Banner

10/21 – 11/8

10/21: Spotlight – You Gotta Read Reviews

10/23: Guest post – Ramblings from this chick

10/24: Spotlight and Review – The Revolving Bookcase

10/25: Spotlight – Erzabet’s Enchantments

10/27: Spotlight – Indie Authors Books and More

10/29: Guest post – Romancing the Rakes

10/30: Guest post – The Book Queen’s Palace

10/31: Spotlight – In Shadows

11/1: Guest post – Literal Hotties Naughty Book Reviews

11/2: Spotlight – As the Page Turns

11/4: Spotlight – Becky on Books

11/4: 2nd stop – Spotlight – Books-n-Kisses

11/5: Guest blog – Romantic Reads and Such

11/6: Interview & Review – Storm Goddess Book Reviews

11/7: Spotlight and Review – Lusty Penguin Reviews

11/8: Spotlight – http://mkendallauthor.blogspot.com.au/

November 2, 2013November 1, 2013

Tiara Trouble Blog Tour and Giveaway

One foreign policy question five years ago sent Destinee Faith Miller’s dreams of being Miss American Universe up in flames and landed her back in her hometown of Phenix City, Alabama, with her tail between her legs. But like the mythological bird that her hometown is misspelled after, she rose from the ashes to create Destinee’s Dolls, a thriving pageant consulting business knee-deep in pink, prints and glitz. A death at the local level of a national pageant lands her the job of pageant emcee, and Destinee dares to dream of bigger things—maybe even a reality TV show! But when judges start dropping like flies, she has her hands full just keeping herself alive long enough to see those dreams come true. Contending with catfights, car bombs, and the camouflage-colored funeral of a redneck’s dream, Destinee gets a little help from her friends, family, and a pit bull named Clarabelle, to track down the killer and, more important, produce a simply magnificent pageant.

Amazon / B&N

About the Author:

Lane Buckman is a former beauty queen from Phenix City, Alabama. Growing up, she wanted to be Miss America, a criminal lawyer, a super model, the President, a Bond girl, a brain surgeon, a journalist, a back-up singer for Duran Duran, and a college professor of Medieval Literature. In order to fulfill those dreams, she became a writer. She lives in Texas with her family, and enjoys every miserably hot second of it.
Her solo debut novel, TIARA TROUBLE, is available from Cozy Cat Press on October 28, 2013, with a sneak peek launch the week prior at the BOSTON BOOK FESTIVAL. TIARA TROUBLE, a light-hearted cozy mystery, marks a departure from Lane’s earlier works in the darker horror/fantasy genre.

The well-received THE ORDER OF THE BLOOD (Black Bed Sheets Books, April 09, 2011), co-authored with Nicole Vlachos, was Lane’s first novel. She has ghost written and consulted on two others. Follow Lane on Facebook and Twitter, and keep up with her world on her blog.

Facebook/Twitter/ Website

My Review (4 Stars):

Tiara Trouble was a very cute mystery set inside the fascinating world of pageants. I was very surprised at how much preparation and work was actually involved in becoming a pageant contestant. Destinee was a fun character who was a past pageant contestant herself and now runs a school to coach future young ladies. I liked her humor and her straight-forward attitude while dealing with the never-ending obstacles that happened over the course of this story. I also liked the supporting cast of characters involved in Destinee’s life that helped to make this an enjoyable read with a mystery that will keep you guessing.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a signed copy of Tiara Trouble and a swag bag from the author. This giveaway is for US Residents only.

To be entered in the drawing by November 6th, answer me this question in the comments:

What do you think about pageants?

November 1, 2013October 24, 2013

Interview & Giveaway with Thea Harrison

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Thea Harrison to the blog today.

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Thea Harrison is the pen name for Teddy Harrison. Thea has traveled extensively, having lived in England and explored Europe for several years. Now she resides in Colorado. She wrote her first book, a romance, when she was nineteen and had sixteen romances published under the name Amanda Carpenter.

She took a break from writing to collect a couple of graduate degrees and a grown child. She experienced waitressing as a teenager, has worked as an activist for a non-profit consumer rights organization, has been a receptionist, an office manager, a penniless graduate student, a director of development and research, and a single mom. Her graduate degrees are in Philanthropic Studies and Library Information Science, but her first love has always been writing fiction.

Her paranormal Elder Races series began May 3, 2011 with Dragon Bound, which won RT Book Review’s Book of the Year Award, and the Romance Writer’s of America RITA in the paranormal romance category.

All five of her full length novels in the Elder Races series have won Top Picks from RT Book Reviews. Book two in the series, Storm’s Heart, and book four, Oracle’s Moon, hit the USA Today bestseller’s list, while book three, Serpent’s Kiss, hit the New York Times extended bestseller list. Her fifth book, Lord’s Fall, hit both the USA Today and the New York Times extended lists.

She adores animals and currently resides with two small dogs that have very large personalities.

Q: What is one of your favorite Myths/legends to write about?

A: When I started to write my reply to this question, I realized it wasn’t going to be a simple or easy answer! I’ve had so much fun with the world building in the Elder Races series. It’s almost impossible to pick just one.

I really enjoyed taking the Oracle of Delphi and putting it into a modern context for Oracle’s Moon. When I turned my attention to the witches’ demesne in Louisville, I wanted to make sure it felt as rich and developed as the rest of the world building I’d done for the other demesnes and mythological creatures. That story was fun for a lot of reasons, because I also really enjoyed building the Djinn society based on Middle Eastern legends.

Another favorite has been developing the Elves, in Lord’s Fall and continued in Kinked. And a third was when I created my own version of Vampyres in Serpent’s Kiss. I have two more Vampyre stories that I’m dying to tell. When I get excited about a story, it’s hard to wait for the right time to tell it!

Q: You’ve been gifted (or cursed) with the ability to shift into another form by a witch. What kind of shifter are you and why? (All creatures, including mythological, apply.)

A: Awesome question! I think I have two answers for that one. If it was a gift, then I think it would have to be something winged and strong. I think there’s something to be said for being as fearless as a harpy, although I’m quite sure I wouldn’t win any popularity contests!

If the ability was a curse and meant to be nasty, the witch would probably turn me into my phobia—a spider! That would be the meanest, nastiest thing anybody could ever do to me!

Q: Since Aryal is a harpy and considered an immortal Wyr, how did you approach her character development in order to make her believable and someone that readers can identify with?

A: I’ll be honest, I was worried about writing Aryal. I really didn’t want to compromise her identity. Aryal has strong emotions but no real morals in the abstract sense, no true compulsion to do what is right for its own sake. She’s abrasive and dangerous… And I had to figure out how to also make her sympathetic.

My first decision was to not be in a hurry to write her story. I wanted to take the time to show her character from a couple of different points of view. The reader first sees Aryal from Pia’s perspective in Dragon Bound, but then in Storm’s Heart I was able to show Aryal from Tricks’ point of view, someone who loved her. I also wanted to make sure that humor came into the mix. Still, the real test came when I sat down and actually started writing Kinked. Then I had to get close enough to her to write her as a main POV character. It helped that I had so many established relationships and characters to work with—such as Grym, Dragos and Graydon—and the world-building in place. With that in place, I could concentrate on developing Aryal herself. I’m very grateful to my editor Cindy Hwang for providing such a supportive platform to write Kinked.

Q: Do you have an Elder Race Bible to help keep your facts start? If not, how the heck do you keep your facts start?

A: So far I’ve had two things in my favor—I’ve got a bit of a freakish memory for detail when it comes to writing, and I also have fantastic beta readers who are good at spotting issues. Still, the world has become big and complicated enough that I’ve got someone working on a series bible right now. It’s over a hundred pages by now and should be done by the end of the year.

Q: Who was the harder character to write Aryal or Quentin and why?

Neither character was as hard as I had feared they would be when I started Kinked. Still, Quentin was easier. I felt more confident writing his character, and I felt the stakes were pretty high on getting Aryal’s character right.

Q: Was there anything about Aryal that surprised you as her story unfolded?

A: I think I probably had the same experience as a writer that several readers have had so far in reading the book—I was surprised at how much I ended up liking and enjoying her. I wouldn’t want to rush out and befriend a real-life Aryal, but I think she’s pretty cool between the pages, and I’m really looking forward to writing more about her.

Q: In the event of an apocalypses (zombie, alien, solar flare or 4 horsemen) which of your characters would you like to team up with?

A: I would absolutely like to team up with Dragos—as long as I was someone he valued, otherwise he might ditch me in a heartbeat.

Q: What is next for the Elder Race series?

A: I’m now contracted for books 7-9, so I’m writing Graydon’s story which will be released around August of 2014. The main characters have also been decided for books 8 and 9, and I’m eager to get to those stories!

I also wrote a self-published project, a novella entitled Dragos Takes A Holiday, which releases November 25^th. I loved spending time with Dragos and Pia, and their little son Peanut gets his POV debut.

It’s been a pleasure to visit with you. Thanks for having me!

*****

Kelly’s review of Kinked:

TITLE: Kinked
SERIES #: Elder Races #6
CHARACTERS: Quentin Caeravorn & Aryal
AUTHOR: Thea Harrison
PUBLICATION DATE: Nov 5, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

Two opponents must confront the cause of their obsessive fury in the latest Novel of the Elder Races…

As a harpy, Sentinel Aryal is accustomed to dealing with hate, but Sentinel Quentin Caeravorn manages to inspire in her a burning ire unlike anything she’s ever known. Aryal believes the new Sentinel to be a criminal, and vows to take him out as soon as the opportunity arises. But the harpy’s incessant wrath has pushed Quentin to the limit, and forces him to make a deadly vow of his own.

To put an end to the conflict, Dragos, Lord of the Wyr, sends them on a reconnaissance mission to the Elven land of Numenlaur. Forced to work together, Aryal and Quentin’s mutual antagonism escalates. Each fight draws forth more passion—culminating in an explosively sexual confrontation. But when their quest reveals real danger, Aryal and Quentin must resolve their differences in ways beyond the physical, before the entire Wyr is threatened.

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Kelly
NUMBER OF STARS: 3 1/2
REVIEW:
Aryal has been on a mission since the moment she met Quentin. She wants to air out all his dirty laundry and then kill him. But Aryal has been finding that a little difficult she can’t find anything on him.
Quentin has avoided getting close to anyone for so long, that even sex is a hand off act. But Aryal brings something to the surface that he doesn’t like or can control.
Forced together to work on a mission these to are either going to kill each other, come back to no jobs, or learn to work with each other and finally bury the hatch.
Which one will it be.

I enjoyed this story, it was not love until the end. I really enjoyed watching Aryal and Quentin fight each other, the attraction and fate. But there were parts and pieces of the story that were a little boring for me but overall it was a good story. Lots of action, lots of drama and lots of words that I don’t have a clue how to pronounce. 🙂

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

*****

Giveaway Time!!

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Giveaway Time!!

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