Guest blog & giveaway with Ashlyn Chase

Top Mistake You Can Make When Dating a Dragon

In her journal, Bliss Russo should have written: Note to self…Next time you’re carried out of a burning building by a hot fire fighter, remember to grab your laptop with your whole life on it!

Instead, what she really wrote (and what her horrified roommate later read) was this:

A dragon? Seriously? A dragon. I think I’ve finally met a guy who might be worth a shot, and he turns out to be some kind of circus freak.

I’d never have believed him if I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes. Transform? Yeah, right… Then he did it! Ack!

I keep waiting to wake up and find out this is just a crazy nightmare. Nope. I’ve pinched myself and then slapped myself for pinching myself. Still not popping out of any coma.

I’ve even wondered if I was drugged. Drake never slipped me any pills. He didn’t even bring me a beer. Nope. Nothing went into my mouth except, well…him. Heh-heh.

Hey, I wonder if dragon penis can cause hallucinations? Naw. That doesn’t make sense. Because if it does, that means he’s a dragon and I didn’t hallucinate anything but the truth.

And while we’re at it…, no wonder he said he can’t get me pregnant. We’re not even the same species! Oh, man. If we ever got married, my mother would be in seventh heaven until she learned that little fun fact. Then she’d descend to the seventh circle of hell and never be seen again.

Why do I care what my mother thinks? Haven’t I always known she means well, but…

Yeah, there are no words following that “but.” Never have been. Never will be. Some things are better left alone.

So, back to Drake. What am I supposed to do with this information? He seemed relieved after he told me, but now I’m the one who’s all jiggy. I don’t know how I’ll feel next time I look at him…if there is a next time. Didn’t he say that biker chick was probably setting the fires and he had to stop her?

I may not have known him long, but one thing I’m certain of—he won’t hit a girl. I doubt he’d even fight back unless his life depended on it, and it well might. She must be some kind of psycho to beat him up and then set fires all over the place. All because he brought me flowers? I swear, if he lives through this, I’ll ask him never to bring me flowers again.

So…as you can see, there are loads of mistakes you can make when dating a dragon. The question to ask yourself is: “Is it worth it?”

If your dragon is as hot and heroic as Drake Cameron, you may be willing to make a few mistakes.

Here is my website where you’ll find all the major buy links, reviews, blog schedule, etc.

http://www.ashlynchase.com

So…what else would you like to know? Okay, there are a couple of important things. This is book 2 in the Flirting with Fangs series from Sourcebooks. Book 1 Flirting Under a Full Moon was released in April. And there will be a third book in March of 2014 called Kissing with Fangs. All take place in my beloved Boston in the Beacon Hill area.

Series arc: Anthony Cross is a vampire who believes that the different paranormal factions would get along if they simply got to know each other. So he opens a bar in Boston’s classy Beacon Hill area as a safe place for paranormals to congregate and socialize. Since immortals don’t seem to need or want wait-staff jobs, Anthony has to hire humans. The #1 rule for all paranormals is to keep humans ignorant of their existence.

But when some of the humans fall for their regulars, they could be in for the shock of their mortal lives!

HOW TO DATE A DRAGON

by ASHLYN CHASE

IN STORES SEPTEMBER 2013

Let the Sparks Fly…

Bliss Russo thought nothing exciting ever happened in her life. Until her building caught on fire and she had to be carried out of the flames in the arms of a gorgeous fireman. Sure, her apartment is now in shambles and she’ll have to start her huge work project completely from scratch. But at least her love life is finally looking up…if only she can find her red-hot rescuer again.

Dragon shapeshifter Drake Cameron is the last of his clan, and the loneliness is starting to claw at him. He’s met only one woman who might be able to stand the shock of his true nature. After all, she barely batted an eyelash when her home burned down. And feeling her curves against him was just as hot as the inferno. Just when he thinks he’ll never track her down, she walks into his firehouse—with no idea what she’s about to get herself into…

“[Ashlyn Chase] entertains with a voice that makes reading her stories pure pleasure. It’s like spending time with your favorite friends. Reviewer Top Pick” —Night Owl Reviews on How to Date a Dragon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Award-winning author Ashlyn Chase specializes in characters who reinvent themselves, having reinvented herself numerous times. She has a degree in behavioral sciences, and has worked as a psychiatric nurse and Red Cross nurse for several years. She lives with her true-life hero husband in New Hampshire. For more information, please visit www.ashlynchase.com.

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July 30, 2013July 24, 2013

Guest Blogger: Laura Florand

A Peek into the World of THE CHOCOLATE TOUCH

Four books into the Amour et Chocolat series (THE CHOCOLATE THIEF, THE CHOCOLATE KISS, THE CHOCOLATE ROSE, and now THE CHOCOLATE TOUCH), you would think I would get tired of chocolate, but I guess I’m one of those people who is always ready to take another bite. For one thing, every time I go behind the scenes to make sure I’ve got the details right for one book, I encounter such fascinating stories and people and settings that they end up inspiring another book.

In the case of THE CHOCOLATE TOUCH, I was researching with one of the top chocolatiers in the world, Jacques Genin, in a final effort to make sure I had the details of THE CHOCOLATE THIEF right before it went to press. (To be honest, I will go behind-the-scenes with a dozen chocolatiers to make sure one book is right if I have to! Or even hundreds! I am selfless in my pursuit of good chocola—ahem, that is, in pursuit of accuracy in my work. People have no idea of the things I’ve had to eat and the lengths I’ve had to go to, to write these books.)

As soon as I got a proper look at Jacques Genin’s kitchens and salon de chocolat, I knew I had found the setting for Sylvain Marquis’s obstreperous rival Dominique Richard, and that he was going to have to have his own story.

Now, of course, THE CHOCOLATE TOUCH is fiction and in no way meant to exactly represent any one setting. But as with Paris itself or the Maison des Sorcières in THE CHOCOLATE KISS, often I encounter real settings that are so beautiful or inspiring that they just work their way into characters in my mind, helping to form who those characters are, until both characters and their setting have to have a story.

I love it when readers write to me that they have gone on a pilgrimage through Paris to find places mentioned in the books.

THE CHOCOLATE TOUCH has a particular focus on the area around République and the Canal Saint-Martin, an area of Paris that is a sentimental favorite of mine, and if readers go to visit it, I highly recommend a stop at Jacques Genin’s (133, rue de Turenne 75003 Paris). You won’t find Dominique Richard there unless you take THE CHOCOLATE TOUCH with you. But I can promise you won’t be disappointed in the chocolates! And you can have fun paging through the book and seeing how many elements of the setting have worked their way into its pages.

Here are a few photos to help you get started. Have you been to Paris yourself? What places there have inspired you? What places would you like to see if or next time you go?

Check out Laura’s series HERE

July 24, 2013July 17, 2013

Guest blog & Giveaway with Eliza Watson

Just How Far Would You Go To Achieve Your Goals?

We all have goals in life, whether it’s to land a dream job or compete in a triathlon. Each time I start writing a new book, my goal is to write the best book possible, which involves conducting extensive research. I’ve done some interesting things for the sake of research, like being blasted with pepper spray, test driving a Vespa scooter—when I’d never driven a motorbike in my life—and touring funeral homes. Kissing My Old Life Au Revoir is the book of my heart and I went to great lengths researching it, including traveling to Paris. Ah, what an author must go through for the sake of research. A few years ago when my husband and I visited Prague and Budapest, I decided to stop over a few days in Paris on the way home, since it was no additional airfare cost. I’ve visited Paris several times, so I didn’t need to play tourist. Instead of visiting Notre Dame, I infiltrated hospital maternity wards, took in puppet performances, and browsed the shops in Pigalle—the red-light district.

I needed to know not only the layout, but the security level at hospital maternity wards in Paris. When I toured a maternity ward in Milwaukee, I had to be buzzed in and out and signed in at registration. Babies wore security anklets, so if they neared an exit the entire floor shut down. Very high tech security. When I went to a children’s hospital in Paris, my heart raced. What if I was stopped by hospital security and had to explain myself in broken French? However, I waltzed inside to find the reception desk unmanned. I walked up the stairs to where a man in scrubs opened the gate with a pleasant bonjour, allowing me access to the floor. I strolled down the hallway taking it all in, and then headed back out of the building. Mission accomplished. I’d learned what I needed to know. Security at maternity wards in Paris—at least this hospital—was much more relaxed than in Milwaukee. This is largely due to the fact that it’s not needed, unlike in the United States.

I attended several puppet performances, including a traditional show with hand puppets, tucked into a quiet spot just off of the Champs Élysées. After the show, I ate dinner and then returned for the second performance. The puppeteer was collecting money and asked me if I wasn’t at his last show. I responded that I was researching puppet shows for a book. With an intrigued glint in his eyes he told me that I needed to participate in a performance to get a good feel for it. I was giddy with enthusiasm as he led me to the back of his shed and allowed me access while several envious children looked on. I sat inside during the performance, taking in the sound of the puppeteer’s animated voice, children’s laughter filtering into the shed, and the handmade puppets lining the wall beneath the stage. I committed every sight, sound, and smell to memory.

My research in Paris was a huge success! I went home and spent several weeks polishing every little detail in Kissing My Old Life Au Revoir. My next women’s fiction book is set in Ireland. I went a wee bit too far with the research for that book and just bought a vacation home in Ireland—my ancestor’s homeland. I wonder if I’ll be able to deduct that as a writing expense…

I would like to thank Kelly and Books-n-Kisses for helping me celebrate the release of my women’s fiction book, Kissing My Old Life Au Revoir.

Giveaway Time!!!!

One commenter will win an autographed print copy of Kissing My Old Life Au Revoir.

(US & Canada only are eligible for a print copy, but international winners are eligible for an e-book.)

To enter to win, please leave a meaningful comment or question about my post.

Thank you for stopping by!

Author Bio

Eliza’s first attempt at creative writing was in fourth grade. She and her friends were huge Charlie’s Angels fans and she would sit in her bedroom at night writing scripts for them to act out at recess the following day. She was Kelly Garrett. The journey from fourth grade script writer to published author wasn’t an easy one, but it was always an adventure and the final destination was well worth it.

When Eliza isn’t traveling for her job as an event planner, or tracing her ancestry roots through Ireland, she’s at home in Wisconsin working on her next novel. She enjoys bouncing ideas off her husband Mark, and her cats Quigley, Frankie, and Sammy.

Learn more about Eliza here:

www.elizawatson.com

http://www.goodreads.com/ElizaWatson

https://www.facebook.com/ElizaWatsonAuthor

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords.

Event planner Samantha Hunter is prepared for a few challenges when escorting a group of good ole boy beer distributors to Paris, the city of haute cuisine and fine wines. However, she doesn’t foresee being passed up for a promotion because she is too professional and doesn’t knock back beers with her clients. Her focus soon switches from landing the well-deserved promotion to finding her free-spirited sister, who lives in Paris and has disappeared, leaving behind family secrets to be uncovered. A sexy puppeteer helps Samantha search for clues to her sister’s whereabouts and teaches her to embrace her inner child. And a funeral-crashing psychic demonstrates the importance of living life to the fullest. It takes Samantha’s life spiraling out of control for her to finally get a life.

July 18, 2013July 12, 2013

Guest blogger: Dee Tenorio

Never Say Never

One thing a writer shouldn’t do—not as a law, just for good discipline—is tell themselves they are never going to write about something. Or worse, never write about it “again”. Because that’s like waving a red flag at your imagination. And I don’t know about you, but my imagination is a bull with boss issues. I only get to go where it says. Mind you, there are arguments, but between the two of us, I don’t win as much as I’d like.

And most of the time, that’s a very good thing. The right thing.

Let me explain. I can be what I like to call, a twitchy little cow. My brain analyzes patterns in everything and I can get obsessive about what those patterns are doing in my life and work. I’m not all “Beautiful Mind” about it, but it can be hard to ignore.

Now, an important theme in my life that comes through in my work is the topic of abuse. I see, every day, the effect scars of abuse can have on a person and its important to me that when the topic comes up in my books, it not be sugar coated or watered down. But I had come to realize that I had several books covering the topic and I didn’t want readers to start thinking it had become my “formula” or that I was using the theme to take a shortcut into their affection for my characters. No more, I said. Not for a long time. Because I don’t want to belittle victims in that way.

I didn’t say never, but apparently, it was close enough.

So there I was, having finished writing “The Virgin’s Revenge”, which is about a young woman trying to come out from under the protective range of her brothers, especially that of her eldest brother, Locke. The heroine’s best friend had nearly succeeded in stealing the book with her sassy jokes, mysterious past and particularly her curiously antagonistic relationship with the heroine’s brother. Susie Packard had entered my life.

My editor, never one to miss an angle on a story, immediately asked, So when are you writing Locke and Susie’s story?

I blinked several times. Uh….Locke and Susie’s story???

She pointed out that there was no way I hadn’t already planned it, it was too clear in the manuscript that these two had something going on. Like, immediately.

I was still blinking. You know why? Because the hints I had gotten from Susie’s past were clear earmarks of someone who had been hurt, very badly, by someone she loved. Possibly everyone she’d ever loved. And I’d just promised myself that I wasn’t going to write another character with abuse in her background.

Susie, if you’ll come to know her, is not the type to be told no when she sets her mind to something. Neither, for that matter, is Locke. I resisted, of course.

I have other jobs ahead of this.

I can’t quite commit at this time.

I already planned to write a different member of the family…

But no. The scenes started taking focus in my mind. I could see them so clearly. Both of them wanting to be together, but always, Susie pulled back. Time and again, her fear made her twist away, almost choking her with the desperation to flee. How could everything she wanted be contained in the personality of a man she knew would instinctively dominate their relationship? How could she, who was so broken and lost, possibly stand up to his kind of influence?

But then I saw her raise her chin. Saw her determination glitter in her eyes. Don’t dismiss me so easily…

This was a character who was more than she realized. Weighed down by her secrets and insecurities, she thought she was all bravado. She’d lost sight of what she had to offer, even to herself. Susie needed redemption for what she’d been through. And not from the people around her. But that wouldn’t be an easy road and she would never want to travel it. All the same, it seemed to be the road she was on.

Thats when I knew what I would be writing next. That was a story I hadn’t told. A story I don’t think many people even would know about. But one that had to be shared.

So I stopped fighting. And I found something beautiful. More than a love story that wrung me out and made me sigh. This book took part of my heart with it as it formed and wove it through the pages. But that’s okay. I have a feeling it will be safe there and hopefully, it can be part of something larger. Something meaningful to others. Others like Susie. And maybe a few others who could be like her. Others who have never known people like Susie were even out there.

Fact of the matter is, when a book is finished and goes out into the world, you don’t have any control over it or how people interpret it. They will love it, hate it, discard it or share it, all without your approval or consideration. As it should be.

But if authors allowed themselves to say never…well, those stories probably wouldn’t be there in the first place. So you give them wings and hope they fly. Fly to someone who will love them.

Maybe, someone like you.

***

So tell me about you. Have you ever done something you ordered yourself not to do, only to find that it was the best choice you ever could have made? Leave an answer in the comments and be entered to win an ecopy of “Trust In Me”!

July 12, 2013July 2, 2013

Interview with Heather Hiestand

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Heather Hiestand to the blog for the first time to talk about her newest release The Marquess of Cake.

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

I’m 43 and live in south Washington State with my husband and four-year-old son. Both of them keep me on my toes. Technically I’m a full-time writer, which means I mostly get to work when my son is at preschool. I first sold in 2004, a mystery short story, then sold my first novel in 2006. Marquess of Cake is my 9^th novel (I think). I’ve written many novellas and shorts too, under two names, Heather Hiestand and Anh Leod.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

It started early for me. I wrote my first story at the age of seven. I never stopped dreaming about being a writer, though I was in my mid-twenties before I buckled down and took my dream seriously. I took classes, researched by reading, and put in the hours to do the actual writing.

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

If I can get organized before my son wakes up, I can carve out a couple of pages in the morning. He’s unpredictable, though. Then I have a couple precious hours to work in peace while he is at school. I read while he’s entertained at home, especially while he’s in the bathtub. He loves to splash around so I get some solid time then with my Kindle or a paper book for fun or research.

Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?

The most challenging part for me these days is the distraction I feel while waiting to hear if contracts are going to be offered. I’ve had a lot of that lately. I also have trouble powering through scenes if I don’t have enough handle on my setting. Otherwise, I’m not much of a procrastinator and I write fast, when I know what I’m doing. I love when my plot spreadsheet comes together and I know the basic shape of my story, subplots and all.

Can you please tell us about your latest book?

The Marquess of Cake is the first in the Redcakes series from Kensington. It is a “Victorian” historical romance, set in 1886 London.

Here’s the blurb:

Coffee. . .tea. . .or a pastry chef sweeter than any confection. . .

Scotch trifle fit for Queen Victoria, scones with clotted cream. . .Alys Redcake knows the way to a man’s heart. Yet she is unaware that with each morsel–and flash of ankle–she is seducing the handsome marquess frequenting her father’s tea shop. Unmarried at twenty-six, Alys’s first love is the family business. But thoughts of the gentleman’s touch are driving her to distraction. . .

With his weakness for sugar, the Marquess of Hatbrook can imagine no more desirable woman than one scented with cake and spice. Mistaking Alys for a mere waitress, he has no doubt she would make a most delicious mistress. And when he finds himself in need of an heir, he plans to make her his convenient bride. Yet as they satisfy their craving for one another, business and pleasure suddenly collide. Will Hatbrook’s passion for sweets–and for Alys–be his heart’s undoing?

How did you come with the idea for this story?

My son had lots of health issues as a baby, and we spent too much time in front of the TV. I became hooked on cooking shows, like the cake decorating ones on The Food Network. The 1880s time period I was working in for steampunk stories and the cake decorating bubbled together in my brain until The Marquess of Cake mixed into a novel, thanks to my idea about the people surrounding a tea shop in Victorian London.

Can you share with us your current work in progress?

I’m busy working on my Redcakes Victorian romance series for Kensington. Book 2, One Taste of Scandal, Judah’s story, is at the copyedit stage, and Book 2, His Wicked Smile, Gawain’s story, is with beta readers. I’m writing a novella, Redcakes 3.5, right now.

Who are some of your favorite authors?

I’ve been reading romance since the mid 1990s, so I’ve read a lot of stories. Some of my favorite historical authors, regardless of genre, are Delle Jacobs, Sherry Thomas, Connie Willis, Elizabeth Peters, Rhys Bowen, Karen Ranney, Carla Kelly, Sabrina Jeffries, Mary Jo Putney and Courtney Milan, to name just a few of my current auto-buys.

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

I can think of a few. Connie Willis for her questing characters, always trying to figure out where they are and how they are going to fit in. Nora Roberts. Her love of detail about careers and businesses has made me less worried about reader acceptance on these topics. Recently, I have to thank Sherry Thomas, Courtney Milan and Julie Ann Long for expanding the nineteenth century-set historical romance novel due to fresh ideas about plots and characters.

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

Michael leapt up, his thigh slamming the edge of his table as he caught her by the apron, then found purchase for his hands around her hips. The tin tray clattered to the floor as he pulled her curvy hips flush against his legs. Her body pressed against him. He scented that delectable perfume of hers. Eau de Redcake’s.

The ladies at the table shrieked and another employee ran toward them, a cloth in her hand. Michael glanced down and saw the cakie’s large brown eyes staring into his, confusion evident.

He blinked at the girl. “How beautiful you look today.” He peered at the black embroidery on her apron. “Alys.”

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

I’m a sucker for Anne Boleyn books, and I just bought The Boleyn King by Laura Andersen. That’s one I can’t wait to read though I don’t know much about it. I’m writing this on May 14^th, the day it was released. Also released today was His Majesty’s Hope by Susan Elia MacNeal. I preordered that one months ago!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I’ve had so much fun creating my Redcakes world. I love how strong my female characters are, and how unconventional my male characters are, within the framework of the historical romances I love so dearly.

To read about Marquess of Cake go to http://www.kensingtonbooks.com/book.aspx/22722 You can purchase there or find all the links to your favorite etailer.

To learn more about Heather Hiestand and the stories she creates go to: http://www.heatherhiestand.com or http://blog.heatherhiestand.com or http://www.twitter.com/hahiestand

Heather is on a blog tour during the month of July. Check her blog to find out where she is. Many of the blog spots have prizes!

July 9, 2013July 2, 2013

Guest blog & giveaway with Shona Husk

The Truth About Fairies

Fairies are real, but because they don’t live in our world, they live in Annwyn, we don’t see them very often. And when we do see them we can convince ourselves that it was just a person and the magic was track of the light. However, since they are real and can be dangerous here are a few essential things to keep in mind should you find yourself face to face with most beautiful person you’ve ever met.

Check their eyes. Fairies have pale eyes, ice pale and they come in all different colors including odd ones like orange and pink, as well as the greens and blues. Even changelings have pale eyes.
Changelings are mortal, but they are fairy. They have a tendency to love deals and gambling and they always have some psychic ability like psychometry or seeing the future.
Never make a deal with a fairy. It might seem like a really good idea at the time, but it will unravel and you will be left worse off.
Never accept a gift from a fairy. First, that gift will not remain shiny and beautiful. Things made in Annwyn change in our world. Gems will become coal, fine clothes will become course. Second, accepting a gift puts you in their debt. It’s never a good thing to owe a fairy.
Not all fairies live in Annwyn. Plenty live among us. Some by choice, some are exiled and some are banished.
Exiled fairies are the least dangerous. Exile is a social death. They are not allowed to return to Annwyn and lose all social standing but they are still connected to the power, however they don’t want to occur an extra penalty so they are on their best behavior. They often work as Brownies or other roles helping mortals.
Banished fairies are the most dangerous. Banishment is a slow wasting death cut off from the magic that once sustained them. They will do anything to get home, lying, cheating, stealing and generally making trouble. Sometimes they’ll make trouble for fun, after all if they are suffering so should everyone. They are the imps, boggarts and monsters in the closet. Children can often see them (and all fairies), so next time your child says there’s something under the bed they may not be lying.
Fairies need humans. Without a human partner they can’t have children. A child born in Annwyn is fairy, but a child born in our world is changeling.
Fairies are not immortal. But compared to our lifespan they may as well be. Can you imagine what it would be like to live for centuries? To live so long you lost track of time? To have so much time you can literally waste a year playing dice or creating elaborate schemes to bring down your enemy?
Because of their long lives and the way the Court of Annwyn works, they have different morals than us. They aren’t beautiful humans, or harmless beings. They are dangerous and deserve to be treated with caution and respect. That said they are capable of caring and falling in love—which they happen to consider very foolish and one of the most dangerous things a fairy can do.

THE OUTCAST PRINCE

by SHONA HUSK

JULY 2013

Amazon | B&N

Just One Taste Is All It Takes…

This is no ordinary mirror. Caspian caught a hint of color, a whirl of a waltz just past his reflection—a glimpse into the decadent Fairy Court of Annwyn. The home he could never have. It called to him, whispering temptation after temptation…if he could only reclaim his rightful heritage.

To Be Forever Lost…

Caspian has an even stronger reason to stay in the world of humans. He’s just met a woman who captivates him like no other. But loving him has proven to be dangerous. And he will do whatever it takes to protect Lydia from the vicious, seductive world of Court—even if doing so requires the ultimate sacrifice: his soul.

Praise for The Outcast Prince:

“Brilliantly unique, beautifully sensual, The Outcast Prince had me spellbound from the first page! Shona Husk’s engaging voice and vivid, creative world-building make every one of her books a must-read!” — Larissa Ione, New York Times bestselling author

“Innovative fantasy… An emotional and engaging tale.” —RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A civil designer by day and an author by night, Shona Husk lives in Western Australia at the edge of the Indian Ocean. Drawing on history, myth and imagination, she writes about heroes who are armed and dangerous but have a heart of gold—sometimes literally. Look for the next book in the Annwyn Series, Lord of the Hunt in January 2014. You can find out more information about Shona and her edgy romances at http://www.shonahusk.com/ or follow her on Twitter, @ShonaHusk.

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!!!!!

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July 8, 2013July 7, 2013

Guest Post with Daryl Wood Gerber & Giveaway

Daryl Wood Gerber is here today to talk about her new release, Final Sentence, and share one of her yummy recipes. I can’t wait to try this myself.

In all my culinary mysteries, I include recipes. I had no idea when I started writing mysteries that I would have to be a cook, too. Luckily, I was. I catered during college. I worked at restaurants. I even subbed for the chef at one restaurant. Now I offer up recipes every week on Mystery Lovers Kitchen with other author pals. All of us like to cook up crime.

In the Cookbook Nook Mysteries, I’ve included cookie recipes. Jenna, the protagonist in the series, loves her sweets. I’ll be sharing some of those recipes on Mystery Lovers Kitchen after the book’s release.

This Five-Cheese Mac and Cheese recipe is from the Cheese Shop Mysteries. It wasn’t included in the recipes at the back of the book, but a fan wrote me and begged for it. Sure, why not? Then a friend of hers posted the link (it’s on my website) and it went viral!

There is a tavern in town that Charlotte and her pals go to for girls’ night out. Tim, the fun-loving Irish owner, makes some of the best appetizers and sides. I don’t know about you, but there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a macaroni and cheese to me. [This can be made gluten-free and it’s amazing.]

Five-Cheese Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

2 cups dried macaroni, cooked to tender (about 4-5 cups cooked) [You can use gluten-free macaroni]
3 cloves garlic chopped
8 tablespoons butter [a cube]
1 1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup white wine
3 Tbs. rice flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/2 tsp. paprika
2 cups grated cheese (equal parts Cheddars, Smoked Gouda, Parmessan, Monterey Jack, Havarti)

Directions:

Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside. May be made a day ahead. Note: Do not forget to drain and set aside. You do not want the pasta to be “wet.”

In a large sauce pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook about 2 minutes. Add rice flour and stir. Cook 1 minute, let boil and thicken, stirring constantly.

Add milk and wine, stir and let boil to thicken.

Remove from heat and add cheeses and seasonings.

Pour sauce over drained macaroni.

Serve with a crisp salad.

QUESTION: Have you ever shared a recipe via twitter or the Internet or even via email with friends?

About the Author:

DARYL WOOD GERBER aka AVERY AAMES pens the Agatha Award-winning, nationally bestselling Cheese Shop Mystery series. As DARYL, she writes A Cookbook Nook Mystery series, featuring a culinary bookshop and café owner. Daryl’s short stories have been nominated for the Agatha, Anthony, and other awards. As an actress, Daryl has appeared in “Murder, She Wrote” and more. Visit Daryl & Avery at www.darylwoodgerber.com. Check out her recipes on her blog www.mysteryloverskitchen.com And friend her on Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of Final Sentence

TITLE: Final Sentence

SERIES #: A Cookbook Nook Mystery #1

CHARACTERS: Jenna Hart & Aunt Vera

AUTHOR: Daryl Wood Gerber

PUBLICATION DATE: 07/02/13

ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS: In need of a change, Jenna Hart leaves the high-pressure world of advertising to help her aunt Vera open a culinary bookshop and cafe. Back with her family in Crystal Cove, California, Jenna seems to have all the right ingredients for a fresh start–until someone adds a dash of murder.

As a marketing expert, Jenna wants to make sure the grand opening of the Cookbook Nook draws a crowd, and no one is better at getting attention than her old college roommate, celebrity chef Desiree Devine. But when Desiree arrives in quiet Crystal Cove to do a cookbook signing, the diva stirs up more trouble than business…especially when she turns up dead.

Known for stealing husbands and burning bridges, Desiree left behind plenty of suspects–including Jenna. Though the celebrity’s life always appeared to be an open book, Jenna will have to read between the lines in order to clear her name, and catch a killer before another body is served cold.

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Jennifer NUMBER OF STARS: Four Stars

REVIEW: This is the first book in a new series and I believe that this series is off to a great start. Jenna Hart has returned home to Crystal Cove after the death of her husband to start a new life and help her Aunt Vera open a culinary bookstore and cafe. For the opening festivities, Jenna has asked her friend and famous chef, Desiree Devine, to hold a book-signing event to help bring in customers for their new store. Instead of a book-signing, Desiree ends up dead on the beach and Jenna is the prime suspect in her murder. Jenna is now out to clear her name before it is too late and the entire town believes she is responsible for the murder.

Daryl Wood Gerber creates a delightful cast of characters set in an inviting little coastal town that will charm anyone. I liked Jenna because she was trying to get back on her feet after the death of her husband and was hoping that returning home would help her start a new life. She was very smart and even though she wasn’t a great cook, she never let her short-comings get her down. I liked how her family and friends helped rally around her and it will be interesting to learn more about them in other books in the series. The mystery in Final Sentence will keep you guessing and I definitely enjoyed visiting Crystal Cove. I’m looking forward to reading more about Jenna and her adventures in the next installment of this delightful mystery series.

Giveaway

I have one copy of Daryl’s new release, Final Sentence, to give one lucky reader. Please leave a comment answering Daryl’s question or let us know your favorite recipe. A winner will be chosen on July 10th.

June 28, 2013June 19, 2013

Guest blog & giveaway with Michele Hauf

Hmm… I just counted. I believe my latest release, BEAUTIFUL DANGER, is book #55. That’s a lot of books since I was first published in 1997! And it never gets boring, or old. It’s always interesting, exciting, fascinating, mysterious, even uncomfortable, every time I am working on a new book.

Learning about the characters is a gradual process that evolves over the entire time it takes to write the book. Even after I’ve done the first draft, hopefully getting at least 50K words to the page and the basic story out of my head, I still might not have a clear idea of who the hero and heroine are. What shaped them and made them who they are at this moment on the page? It can take many more drafts, each time going through the story from beginning to end, layering in details, and researching, and learning, bit by bit, until I’ve finally got a real, solid character. It’s very rewarding!

I knew a lot about Domingos LaRoque stepping in to this story, though. He hadn’t been vampire very long, and was once a talented cellist. He gave up his music because it felt wrong to taint something so perfect with vampirism. And I’m pretty sure Domingos is my most tortured hero ever, too. Literally. At the beginning of the book he escapes a werewolf pack that had held him captive and tortured him in the blood games. Poor guy. He just needs some tender loving care!

Enter, the heroine, who is a vampire hunter. The last person you’d expect to cozy up with a vampire. Lark has issues as well, and she’s recently lost her husband because of vampires. She does not like vampires. But there’s something so compelling about Domingos. She can almost experience the emotions her husband went through while in captivity through Domingos. But does she want that?

Domingos’ music becomes a catalyst between them (Lark plays violin as well). Together, they will begin to heal, and perhaps even, make beautiful—but dangerous—music.

Find Michele here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinerest

Beautiful Danger

In the Company of Vampires #1

Amazon | B&N

Could Her Sworn Enemy Lead Her Out of Darkness?As a member of an ancient order of hunters, Lark has found that eliminating dangerous vampires is about more than duty. It’s personal—a kill for every day her husband was held captive before his death. Staking her prey isn’t a challenge until she confronts Domingos LaRoque. Mad with vengeance and the blood of a powerful phoenix, Domingos tests her skillsand seduces her soul.

Once a talented musician, Domingos can’t escape the constant music in his heador his need to destroy the werewolf pack that tortured him. Though trusting the hunter ordered to kill him could be his gravest mistake, the dark desires between them can’t be refused. Yet as he and Lark become allies to defeat a mutual threat, loving the enemy may be the ultimate sacrifice.

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

June 26, 2013June 20, 2013

Guest Blogger: Sherry Soule

“Favorite Character Moments”

Author Sherry Soule, who is celebrating the release of her latest novel, IMMORTAL ECLIPSE provides today’s post. If you like supernatural suspense mingled with a dash of chick-lit and a healthy dose of paranormal romance, then this is the book for you! Sherry is sharing two of her favorite moments from her new novel.

Enjoy the teasers!

Passage 1

Dorian pulls me to my feet and I find myself pressed against the tree. I raise my hands to push him away, but his strong fingers imprison mine above my head. I stare into those hypnotic eyes. My knees tremble. Blood springs from my heart and pounds in my brain. Desire flares in his bold stare, and I’m lost. I can’t move. I can’t think. The world has vanished. Nothing exists outside of this thrilling moment. Dorian leans in close, and a spark of response leaps between us. His fingers tighten on my wrists.

“I should do what’s right”—he inclines his head and places his mouth near my ear—”and leave you alone.”

Oh, I hope he does what’s wrong.

I’m unsure whether to step away or invade his personal space. After a moment’s hesitation, I lean into him and his hold loosens. The heat of his body enters mine, and his vibrant masculine presence overwhelms and robs me of breath. Things like that will do something funny to a girl’s head. They must. Because after swallowing twice, I say huskily, “Oh, Dorian…Dorian…” Kiss me.

Passage 2

Victor Pratt steps even closer, almost invading my space, eyeing the amulet resting between my breasts for a long second, before his gaze lingers on my boobs. His stare is downright creepy. There’s no way Victor thinks I’m a hottie—we can’t be less each other’s type. And the guy makes my skin crawl. But while I might not know how to handle the spooky stuff, I do know how to handle lecherous men.

“Y’know, being stalked isn’t really a big turn-on for most women.”

He doesn’t answer, just stares at my lady lumps.

“My eyes are up here, Victor.” I put a finger under his chin and tilt his head upward.

Victor looks down again and licks his lips.

Ewww! Annoyed, I flick his forehead with my index finger and thumb, making him blink sharply.

He rubs the red spot. “Hey!”

I glare. “Stop it then!”

His expression turns wolfish. “Why? Is it affecting you?”

I cross my arms. “Of course not. You’re being a pig.”

“Am I? So sorry.” He doesn’t even have the decency to act regretful. He has that air about him that says he knows who he is and doesn’t care what anyone else thinks of him. I envy that.

Places you can cyberstalk Sherry Soule:

Official Blog: http://www.sherrysoule.blogspot.com

Twitter @WriterSherry: http://twitter.com/writersherry

FACEBOOK: http://on.fb.me/tdro6f

goodreads: http://bit.ly/uzohif

Read an excerpt: http://sherrysoule.blogspot.com/p/adult-urban-fantasy_11.html

BUY IMMORTAL ECLIPSE:

Amazon Paperback: http://amzn.to/1074dUY

Kobo: http://bit.ly/12BgpdY

Amazon Kindle: http://amzn.to/14IbgG5

Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/11QIbnz

Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/14edSHU

Thank you so much for letting me chat up my NA novel with all of you. It’s been an honor to share my favorite moments. If you haven’t seized your copy of IMMORTAL ECLIPSE yet, please do so. I hope everyone enjoyed this post, now go feed your mind and read a book! Preferably mine. 😉

June 21, 2013June 19, 2013

Guest blogger: Carrie Ann Ryan talks about The Redwood Pack

An Introduction to the Redwood Pack World

Every time I open a book to read I get to jump into a new world. When I started writing, I was so excited because I got to make up my own world. The Redwood Pack is an ancient Pack of wolves who hide their animal halves from the unsuspecting humans.

In each Pack there are different hierarchies. Not all Packs are the same. Not all positions and powers in the Pack are known to the other Packs.

In the Redwoods there are certain positions and most of them surround the Alpha’s family—the Jamensons.

Edward Jamenson is the Alpha, their leader. He and his wife Pat, have six sons and one daughter. Kade, the eldest son, is the Heir, the next in line to be Alpha. His story was told in book 1 of the series, An Alpha’s Path. You see, it started with a blind date that turned into something more with Melanie.

Jasper is the second son and the Beta. His story is told in A Taste for a Mate. His story with Jasper brought out the entire world of darkness with the Central’s war.

Adam is the fourth oldest and is the Enforcer. He went through so much before this series started that in his book, Enforcer’s Redemption (Book 4) that it literally took it all out of me and readers to get through it. But he found his mate in Bay.

Reed is the fourth eldest and doesn’t hold a position in the Pack outside of being a family member. He is though, in a relationship with Josh and Hannah. He loves them both and literally went through hell to keep them in Trinity Bound.

Maddox and North are twins and next in age. Maddox is the Omega, while North does not hold a position. Maddox and North have been within each story line and now Maddox has his story FINALLY with Ellie in Shattered Emotions. North will have his soon as well, but now it’s Maddox’s turn.

Cailin is the baby and the only girl. Her mate will have to be someone strong as hell to deal with her feisty attitude.

My Jamensons are werewolves. They have two souls – one of man and one of wolf. They work hard for control, but are inherently good. But the Jamensons aren’t the only wolves out there. There is another Pack bent on destroying all that the Redwoods hold dear. It will take everything they have and every power they possess to save themselves and the humans.

Each sibling will find their mate or mates J and do all that they can to keep them. There is love, heat, *ahem* sex, fighting, sorrow and happiness. Everything that I love to read. LOL I love making new worlds and finding secrets.

The Redwood World is dark, twisty, hot, feisty, and full of secrets. I can’t wait for you to indulge.

Shattered Emotions

Maddox Jamenson is the Omega of the Redwood Pack, the one burdened by emotions stronger than his own. He’s spent his entire life shrouded in the secrets of his “gift” and the price he has to pay to keep it, yet the cost just escalated. He’s known a mate could be in the cards for him, but he can’t have what he wants. Not when the battles he has yet to fight could destroy her.

Ellie Reyes was the Central’s princess, the daughter of the most hated Alpha of all time, yet not prized. No, she’s spent her life as the toy of her brother’s sadistic torture and has endured a pain that no one else should have to even contemplate. Though when she’s rescued, the one person who could help her, her mate, turns his back on her for reasons unknown to her. As each day passes, the strength that everyone sees in her dwindles to a point that there may be no coming back from.

When the Centrals find a new way to attack, leaving Ellie’s only protection a mate that she doesn’t think wants her, they’ll both have to overcome their fears and fight for something stronger than their pain. The war isn’t over and new players are coming that will decide the outcome. Maddox and Ellie’s connection will be tested even as their fragile bond is only newly forming.

Excerpt:

Ellie Reyes gripped Maddox’s hand as tight as she could. Yes, it was the first time he’d voluntary touched her since he’d picked her up out of the back of the Jeep when they’d first met, but, honestly, that wasn’t important now.

She’d think about the calloused hands of a hard worker—one who helped his Pack and brothers, not necessarily in his job—and how they would feel against her skin. She’d think about what it all meant later.

Maybe later she could even relish his touch and imagine the scents of wolf and forest washing over her.

Later.

Right now, all she wanted to do was hide in a corner so the others would stop staring at her. Or, she could raise her chin at them all and show them they couldn’t hurt her. Her wolf whimpered at the thought, not knowing if that were possible. She didn’t know if she was broken or strong anymore.

She’d been hurt far more than they could ever imagine. They had no idea what she could endure. Oh, they’d all guessed and given her their pitying looks, but they didn’t know.

They couldn’t know.

About Carrie Ann:

Carrie Ann Ryan is a bestselling paranormal and contemporary romance author. After spending too much time behind a lab bench, she decided to dive into the romance world and find her werewolf mate – even if it’s just in her books. Happy endings are always near – even if you have to get over the challenges of falling in love first.

Carrie Ann’s Redwood Pack series is an bestselling series that has made the shifter world even more real to her and has allowed the Dante’s Circle and Holiday, Montana series to be born. She’s also an avid reader and lover of romance and fiction novels. She loves meeting new authors and new worlds. Any recommendations you have are appreciated. Carrie Ann lives in New England with her husband and two kittens.

Carrie Ann loves hearing from readers. You can find her at:

Website | Facebook | Goodreads | Twitter: @CarrieAnnRyan |

Giveaway

Carrie Ann is giving away a special swag pack and a copy of her backlist to a lucky commenter. Be sure to leave your email to enter!

June 12, 2013June 12, 2013

Guest blogger & giveaway with Sandra Sookoo

Thanks so much for having me back on your blog! I’m excited to announce the release of my newest book MISFORTUNE’S LADY which is the third story in my Scandal in Surrey series. It’s a m/f/m ménage set in the Regency time period.

Originally, when I set about creating the Scandal in Surrey series, I had no idea there’d be a ménage scenario involved. The overriding theme that connects the books is acceptance in an oftentimes unyielding Society coupled with the heat (literal and figurative) of scandal. These stories are erotic in nature, so please be advised. Unveiling a threesome is pretty scandalous.

The idea came together one afternoon when I was goofing around, brainstorming a flirty scene with a friend. It wasn’t necessarily for this book. In fact, I didn’t have a plot or characters in place for this story yet, but the gist of it was: how about a sexy scene on an outdoor terrace where the men are pursuing the woman with a very determined manner? So, I set out to type said scene. There were no character names except guy 1 and 2. I did have the heroine’s name at that time. The funny thing was, once that scene came together after the crazy brainstorming session, it kickstarted the whole book.

I hope you enjoy it!

Amazon | Smashwords | ARe

Blurb: She wants a slower pace… Miranda Ellis Mason Craythorne is three times a widow. Some say bad luck has dogged her steps; she rather thinks it’s just life, yet the rumors sting. She’s long left her wild youth behind and now lives at her country estate, content to play matchmaker. Seeing John sets fire to the tendre she’s carried for him and causes her to rethink remaining in widowhood even though avoiding matrimony is for his own good.

He wants to settle down… Mr. John Goddard has admired Miranda from afar for years, but their timing has never been right. As a Bow Street Runner-turned-private investigator, he knows mortality has an expiration date. What better woman to start a family with than the one he’s held a torch for? But his penchant for the occasional ménage might sour the plans.

He wants the next exciting game… Richard Howick, who is rarely on home soil, is a spy who wants nothing more than the next adventure. He’s giving life a merry chase and has no plans to domesticate. He’s too much of a rake not to take pleasure when it’s offered, and the opportunity to play the occasional third thrills him.

Life presents an unorthodox chance…While rumors abound and scandal nips at their heels, between the three, desire explodes. If their luck holds, they might just find love in the mix.

Excerpt (Steamy rating):

“Ah.” Her pulse tripped into double time. Mr. Howick had no business being so mysterious or attractive, yet she couldn’t resist engaging him in conversation. “Mrs. Miranda Ellis Mason Craythorne.” Thinner than John, but equally masculine, he sported short, light brown hair and a completely different build. Whereas John had a good three inches of height, the other man seemed leaner, as if he were constantly in motion and used to moving quickly. “Thank you for responding to my invitation.” She dismissed explaining the real reason for her invite. No, Mr. Howick was not a candidate for Annabelle.

Richard grinned and stroked a forefinger along the thin mustache clinging to his upper lip. “I have no doubt we will grow close as the days go by.” He threw a glance to John then focused his gaze on Miranda. “Is there a reason you’ve been widowed three times or are you truly a victim of luck?”

She eyed the men warily. “Does it matter?” Logic and self-preservation dictated she lead them both into the house and among the other guests, yet curiosity demanded she let the scene play out. Why did they both seem on the prowl?

“It does.” John closed the distance between them. He slid an arm around her waist and drew her against his chest. “Perhaps the legality of it all dooms your relationships. Perhaps luck will only favor you if you take a lover.”

Miranda had scarcely drawn a harried breath before Richard came behind her, his hands warm on her hips, effectively holding her between their two hard, male bodies. “Perhaps you need two men to head off any more misfortune because, after all, two of anything is always better than one.”

Dear heavens, what have I fallen into? She stared into John’s face. The crisp, clean scent of his shaving soap sent threads of need between her thighs, yet the spicier aroma that clung to Richard teased her senses and put her in mind of sumptuous bedrooms in the Middle East. “That largely depends on the viewpoint. If an antelope is tracked by two lions, that’s not good for the antelope.” Which is exactly what I feel like. Gentle rain seeped into her gown but did nothing to cool her overheated skin. If she stood outside much longer, the resulting mess would be talked about with more enthusiasm than if she’d dampened her petticoats.

“Does the antelope wish to be caught?” Richard whispered into her ear.

She fought a shiver. In the men’s loose embraces, waves of need crashed over her. “I can ill-afford scandal, gentlemen. Perhaps we should join the party.”

John’s smoky chuckle caressed her. “It’s only a scandal if we’re caught.”

“I’ve left that life behind.” They had to understand she wasn’t gossip’s consort any longer. She enjoyed her staid life too much to damage it by a careless and dangerous flirtation.

He tucked the escaped curl behind her ear and his fingers lingered on her cheek. “Will you vanish into obscurity then? Give your vitality to the flora and fauna here?” John tsked. “That isn’t the Miranda I used to know, the woman I lusted after.”

“People mature.” She couldn’t help the tremble gliding through her body. Oh, how she’d missed a man’s touch, if nothing else but to be reminded she was still young and alive. “There’s nothing wrong with my life.”

Richard pulled her backside flush against his front. “Except your bed is lonely and cold.”

Oh, God, what would it be like to have them both in her bed? At one time she’d dreamed of having John’s affections, but to know both of these men in carnal ways? A shiver shook her. She banished the inconvenient thought. I want only to rusticate. Yet her body continued to betray her. Her nipples tightened into buds that fairly screamed to be touched. “That is not something I wish to discuss—with either of you.” She couldn’t tell John that at times she cried from needing a man’s presence, for no other reason than to be held in the wee hours of the night.

“Are you quite certain of that?” Richard’s breath warmed her skin and the touch of his lips at her nape seared her.

“I…” Any moment now, Annabelle would come looking for her. What would her cousin think? A smidgeon of guilt assailed her. Who was she to enjoy the attention of two men when she’d asked them here to catch Annabelle’s eye? Thoughts continued to whirl. Or worse, what would happen if she were found in such a scandalous tangle by Lady Underhill? “If we linger on this terrace, all three of us will have the devil to pay.” Decadent, wicked heat chased through her insides and culminated between her thighs. It had been so long since she’d known a man’s touch at her sex. How naughty to even contemplate having them both in her bed, but how could she choose between them as they seemed to come as a matched pair?

Regardless of what her body wanted, she firmly shoved away the delicious thoughts. I am not that woman. I do not need to revisit scandal.

John’s eyes twinkled. He ran the pad of his thumb along her lower lip. “Then, by all means, let us adjourn to somewhere more private.”

“And close,” Richard added while brushing his fingers along the side of her neck. “It would be vastly more superior to sipping lemonade and making dull conversation with those chits I glimpsed on my way in.”

The words snapped Miranda out of the fog she’d fallen into. She broke from their combined embrace and backed away. Her chest heaved with the effort of remaining calm. Both men seemed inordinately interested in her bosom. “Gentlemen, I thank you for the interesting introduction, but I really must dash. I have guests waiting, and if my good luck holds, a business venture to embark upon.”

John pinned her with a gaze that smoldered with enough heat to set her skirts on fire. “Our conversation isn’t over.”

She gained an open doorway and stumbled over the threshold. It was clear they wouldn’t be put off so easily. “If you wish to talk with me, call tomorrow for tea.”

You can find this book on all digital book outlets. (At the time of creating this blog post, the book hadn’t been released yet)

Connect with my on social media:

Website: http://www.sandrasookoo.com

Believing is Seeing blog: http://sandrasookoo.wordpress.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/sandrasookoo

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sandra.sookoo

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2931453.Sandra_Sookoo

Contest information:

One lucky random commenter will win a copy of Scandalously Independent (which contains the first two Scandal in Surrey series—Lady Parker’s Grand Affair and The Bride’s Gambit) Said winner can either have it in paperback form or digital format.

So, answer this question: If you enjoy Regency stories, what is one of your favorite story lines? Please remember to leave your contact information. Contest will be open for a week.

*****Please make sure you leave your email address too!!!!!*****

Giveaway ends 6/18 midnight

June 12, 2013June 7, 2013

Playing the Part Release Party

PLAYING THE PART Release Week event

I love movies. I love movie stars. I love romance novels.

In my latest release, PLAYING THE PART, I got to combine all three and set the book in L.A., a private estate in Hawaii, and in NYC. My story took place on movie sets, glamorous premieres, and the Oscars.

And I got to write about the action-movie star voted the Sexiest Man Alive for the past two years: Mick Blackwell. He’s a sexy, intriguing playboy who loves to break the rules. But he’s met his match in Piper James — a sassy romance novelist who decides that Mick is just what she needs to spice up her short visit to L.A.

I loved writing this book.

Early reviews for PtP have been amazing. NYT and USAToday Bestselling author Gina L. Maxwell said, “PLAYING THE PART blew me away with it’s great characters, fast pace, and enough heat to warrant more than a few cold showers. Mick and Piper complement each other perfectly and make the reader root for them from Page 1. Robin’s writing is tight and engaging and she nailed her characters. Definitely one of my favorite reads of 2013.”

To celebrate the release, I’m giving away 11 packs full of awesome! The prize pack includes: A movie (either a Mick Blackwell action movie or a Piper James romance-my choice), popcorn, movie candy, and Robin Covington SWAG.

And . . . one lucky winner will get a prize pack and a $50 Amazon gift card!

I will pick the winners on Friday, June 20, 2013 at midnight EST.

So what do you have to do to win here? Just – use the rafflecopter widget below and you will be entered to win! You can enter at each stop to increase your chances.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Burn it up,

Robin

Sizzling Romance. Burning Up the Sheets . . . one page at a time.

June 10th – 21st

June- 9- Reading Between the Wines
June 10 – Reading in Pajamas
June 10 – A Book Whore’s Obsession
June 10 – Book Chick Blog Reviews
June 10 – Ravishing Romances
June 11- Sandwich Making Book Bitches
June 11 – Michelle Chew Writes
June 12 – Books n Kisses
June 12 – Scorching Book Reviews
June 13 – Nothing Better than a Book
June 20 – Book Lovin Mamas

Robin’s Bio:

Robin Covington, who NYT Best Selling authors, Robyn Carr and Carly Phillips, said was their new “auto-buy author”, writes sizzling hotcontemporary and paranormal romance.

A Night of Southern Comfort, her best-selling debut novel earned 4.5 stars and was touted by RT Book Reviews as bringing a “fresh, modern feel to the genre while still sticking to the things that get our adrenaline pumping — sex and danger”. When she’s not exploring the theme of fooling around and falling in love, she’s collecting tasty man candy, indulging in a little comic book geek love, and stalking Joe Mangianello.

Robin is a member of the Romance Writers of America, the Washington Romance Writers, a faculty member at Romance University, a member of the Waterworld Mermaids, and a contributor to the Happy Ever After blog at USA Today. You can find Robin on her website, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter (@RobinCovington).

Robin lives in Maryland with her hilarious husband, brilliant children, and ginormous puppy.

Social Media:

Facebook | Twitter |Website | Blog

Playing the Part

Amazon | B&N | Itunes | Kobo

The harder they play . . . the harder they fall.

After publicly self-destructing over a heartbreak a year ago, bestselling romance writer Piper James is now making nice with her publisher by agreeing to teach Hollywood’s favorite action star how to act like he’s in love. Only playboy Mick Blackwell has no clue what love looks like.

When a seductive heat ignites between Piper and Mick, she jumps at the chance for a bit of fun between the sheets, but with two stipulations: she’s kept out of the public eye and things end when she returns to New York. Only Mick keeps changing the rules on her. Tempted by America’s favorite bad boy, Piper is wondering how far she’s willing to bend…

Just How Far Would You Go To Achieve Your Goals?

Giveaway Time!!!!

Never Say Never

The Truth About Fairies

THE OUTCAST PRINCE

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!!!!!

Beautiful Danger

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!!

Shattered Emotions

***Giveaway***

Playing the Part

Giveaway