Cover Reveal of Laura Kaye’s “Hard As You Can”

Avon is proud to announce the publication of Laura Kaye’s second book in her hot Hard Ink series, HARD AS YOU CAN (On Sale: February 25, 2014).

Ever since hard-bodied, drop-dead-charming Shane McCallan strolled into the dance club where Crystal Dean works, he’s shown a knack for getting beneath her defenses. For her little sister’s sake, Crystal can’t get too close. Until her job and Shane’s mission intersect, and he reveals talents that go deeper than she could have guessed.

Shane would never turn his back on a friend in need, especially a former Special Forces teammate running a dangerous, off-the-books operation. Nor can he walk away from Crystal. The gorgeous waitress is hiding secrets she doesn’t want him to uncover. Too bad. He’s exactly the man she needs to protect her sister, her life, and her heart. All he has to do is convince her that when something feels this good, you hold on as hard as you can-and never let go.

Learn more about Laura Kaye here: http://www.laurakayeauthor.com/

August 2, 2013August 2, 2013

Interview & Giveaway with Laura Kaye

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome back Laura Kaye!!!!!!

Laura, we always love having you here. Can you please share with us a little about yourself

I’d love to! And thanks for having me back at Books-n-Kisses again! I write paranormal and contemporary romance and current have four series: Vampire Warrior Kings, of which Taken by the Vampire King is the third book; the Greek-mythology-inspired Hearts of the Anemoi series; the Heroes series, and my new Hard Ink series that debuts this November. I’m also a mom of two young girls, owner of a cute-but-bad dog, and total vampire nut!

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Not exactly. From a young age I knew I wanted to research, write, and teach history, so that’s what I did. I have a PhD in American history and have taught at the college level for the past 15 years. As part of that work, I am a non-fiction author. But it wasn’t until I suffered a minor traumatic brain injury five years ago that I developed an insatiable creative streak that most manifested itself in writing fiction. Now I couldn’t live without it.

Are you a plotter or a pantser or combo of both? And you explain the difference?

I used to be a total seat-of-my-pants writer (i.e., a pantser, someone who doesn’t do much or any advanced planning for a book), and I still prefer that. But once you start selling books on proposal and having back-to-back deadlines, plotting becomes more and more important and necessary (i.e., a plotter, someone who to varying degrees plans and outlines what’s going to happen in the book before they start writing). So now I’m a combination of both.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

LOL! Hmm… For most of my recent books, I’ve listened to one song on repeat hundreds of times while I wrote that particular book. A different song for each book. After a while, it becomes the best white noise!

Can you please tell us about your latest book?

I’d love to! Taken by the Vampire King is a beauty-and-the-beast story set in Tromso, Norway, featuring a dying vampire king and a terminally ill human woman determined to pursue her dreams for however long she has left. Here’s the blurb:

Henrik Magnusson is supposed to be immortal, but a mysterious ailment leaves the vampire king near death, and not even the blood of the Proffered, human virgins trained to serve the elite, can sustain him. Then he rescues a beautiful young woman from his enemies, and is filled with blood lust and desire he hasn’t felt for centuries.

Photographer Kaira Sorenson’s life takes a nightmare turn when she’s attacked by blood-thirsty creatures—and saved by a vampire. She should be afraid of Henrik, but she can’t deny her intense attraction to this regal, enigmatic being—nor the fact that her blood may be his only salvation. Now she must decide if she’s willing to be his forever… (order links below)

How did you come with the idea for this story?

I’ve always wanted to include the Northern Lights in a story! LOL And I’ve always loved the Beauty and the Beast set-up. And I always knew this king was dying. Those were the germs for the story and from there, it took shape.

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

I am currently writing Hard as You Can (Hard Ink #2) – hot, hot, hot contemporary romance about the survivors of a Special Forces team who run an underground mission out of the back of a tattoo shop.

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

J.R. Ward. Because she is my favorite author and I admire her writing very much. And to say thank you in person for recently providing me with a cover quote for my book, Hard As It Gets!!!

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

Keep working at it, keep writing, keep believing, even when things are hard. And read. A lot.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

A lot of my bucket list is travel related. I MUST see the Northern Lights before I die. And I have to travel to Ireland, Russia, and Egypt.

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

My TBR pile is ginormous! I want to read Emily McKay’s The Farm, Jennifer L. Armentrout’s new YA series, and I need to start Jessica Andersen’s books, to name a few.

What is one book everyone should read before they die?

I don’t think such a thing exists. Reading is such an intensely personal and intimate experience, so I would assume that a book that deeply meant something to me would impact everyone that same way.

What is your favorite time of year & why?

I love summer because you can be outside and I’ve always loved the beach.

Who is your Celebrity crush? And what would you do if you ever meet them?

Chris Hemsworth. I would probably be so star struck that I just grinned ridiculously the whole time and meeting him would be over before I knew it. LOL

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Huge thank you to the readers who make this all possible! Love you guys!

Add to Goodreads

Buy at Amazon | B&N | Kobo | iTunes

Excerpt:

“So, what? You want to drink my blood again?” Kaira drew her knees up under the hospital blanket.

At least her directness saved him the trouble of figuring out how to tell her what needed to happen here. “Ja.” He dragged a hand through his hair. Suddenly, an idea took shape in his mind. As much of a monster as this probably made him, he had to find out how feeding from her fully would impact his malady. But perhaps he could do something for her in return.

What if she fed from him, too?

His body snapped to attention, heartbeat pulsing in his fangs, cock hard and aching. He couldn’t remember the last time a woman had elicited these reactions. Blood lust and physical lust usually went hand in hand for a vampire, so he hadn’t craved the tight heat of a woman’s body in a very long time. Too long.

“That’s it? That’s all you have to say? Because, you know, I’m kinda using this blood over here.”

The angered heat behind her words did nothing to rein in his physical reactions. He swallowed hard, forcing down his hunger for her blood. And her body. “I know how this sounds, Kaira, and I am sorry. If there was another way…well, there isn’t. I’ve tried everything. I wouldn’t take more than you could afford to lose at one time. I don’t know if your blood will definitively cure me, but I do know without it…I’ve no chance at all.” He shook his head, still grappling with his thought of offering her his vein in return.

Usually, such a privilege was reserved for a vampire’s mate, especially given his rank and station. Not that he’d ever been successful at finding a blood match that might’ve led to his joining with a mate. For a single moment, he let himself imagine the immense satisfaction of Kaira’s lips at his throat, her tongue coaxing his blood into her mouth, her body clinging tightly to his.

His cock punched at the zipper to his jeans and his fangs stretched out against his bottom lip. And that reaction was another consideration. Could he feed her and not make it about sex? He wasn’t even sure it was possible.

Kaira gasped, her eyes trained on his mouth.

He almost turned away. But then he thought better of it. It would be good for her to see his true nature now and have the time to wrap her head around it.

At first, looming panic filled her expression. But then it shifted into what he would’ve sworn was abject fascination. Her respirations quickened, her heart rate thrummed, and the rich scent of her adrenaline filled the air—along with something else. Something hotter, sweeter, more feminine.

She was aroused. By the sight of his fangs.

He was merely a shadow of the male he’d once been. No delusions about what he looked like here. Was it really possible that someone as beautiful as Kaira could find him attractive?

“Kaira,” he said in a rasping warning. If she didn’t stop looking at him like that, he wouldn’t be responsible for his actions. She blinked and licked her lips. Which didn’t help his restraint one damn bit. He pushed onto his feet and braced his hands on each of the bedrails, a predator stalking her, boxing her in. “You need to understand how weak my restraint is right now.”

GIVEAWAY:

Did you have a favorite line from the excerpt?

One commenter who leaves their email address will win a $5 Amazon or B&N gift card!

Open to international! Good luck!

A little more about Laura:

Laura Kaye is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

July 8, 2013July 7, 2013

COVER REVEAL: Laura Kaye’s Forever Freed

Amazon Kindle | Amazon Paperback |B&N (coming soon) | Kobo

A heart can break, even one that no longer beats.

I stalk my new neighbors, a single mother and her child, drawn by the irresistible scent of their joy and love. I crave their blood, starved for some healing respite from my ancient guilt and grief. Now to lure them into my grasp.

But they surprise me. Little Olivia accepts me without fear–talking, smiling, offering innocent affection that tugs at my long-lost humanity. Her mother, Samantha, seeks me out when she should stay away, offering sweet friendship, and tempting the forgotten man within me. They lure me instead.

Ah, Dio, Lucien, run and spare them while you can…

NJRW GOLDEN LEAF WINNER FOR BEST PARANORMAL ROMANCE OF 2011
NJRW GOLDEN LEAF FINALIST FOR BEST FIRST BOOK OF 2011

GDRWA BOOKSELLERS’ BEST CONTEST FINALIST FOR BEST PARANORMAL 2012
GDRWA BOOKSELLERS’ BEST CONTEST FINALIST FOR BEST FIRST BOOK OF 2012

Excerpt (Adult):

The bedroom door had barely clicked behind me when Samantha grabbed and shoved me toward the bed. I fell backward, and she was on top of me, clawing at my clothes and ripping off her own. Whatever had been going on with her all day was now clearly finding a release.

“Sam?”

She kissed me roughly and shoved her tongue into my mouth. I groaned and pushed her back. Though we french kissed all the time, I generally kept her out of my mouth.

“Sam?”

Finally, she stilled. With her hands braced on my shoulders, her eyes burned down into mine. Her anger squeezed my chest. Her voice was strained. “Lucien, we’ll talk later. I promise. But right now I want you, and I need you. And I need you to know it, feel it.” Her words clarified little, but I nodded.

She unleashed herself on me, kissing and licking and roughly nipping at my upper body all while maintaining eye contact. I thrust my hips into her when she lingered over my Blood Mark. I finally had to grab her hair and tug her attention away from it.

With a groan, she reached a hand down between her legs and worked herself as she devoured me. When I realized what she was doing, I moaned and gripped her shoulders and rolled on top of her.

I grabbed her hand and pulled it to my mouth, then noisily sucked on her wet fingers. I groaned at the sweet nectar of her arousal.

“You see what you do to me, Lucien? What only you do to me?” she rasped. “Take me, Lucien. I’m yours,” she offered as she planted her feet flat on the mattress and pushed herself up forcefully against my erection.

Her aggression spurred mine, and I grunted. “You want me?” I asked as I ground myself against

her wetness. She ran a hand over the bedspread and found the packet she’d apparently laid out earlier. She slid herself against me as she opened it and then rolled on the condom. “God, yes,” she whimpered.

I plunged forward and filled her in one hard stroke. She screamed and wrapped herself around me. Hard breaths and grunts and strained curses in two languages filled the room as we battled through Samantha’s emotions with our bodies. She kissed me roughly and dug her nails into my flesh. The physical pain mingled with her radiating pleasure to coax what I was sure was going to be one of the most intense orgasms I’d ever experienced.

She came in a frenzy of screams and muscle contractions. And then bit against the taut skin at the base of my neck. Hard.

My fangs and release shot out at the same time. I growled and in a blur turned my head in search of my biceps. I missed the tender skin of her shoulder by a hair as the urge to bite down became irresistible.

Finally, I willed my fangs to retract and licked at the wound I’d made on my arm, then slid down a little and laid my head on her heaving breasts.

“I love you,” I whispered breathlessly.

She hugged my shoulders and combed her fingers through my hair. “I love you, too.” We lay together, panting, for a long time. “Lucien?” I lifted my head off her chest to look at her. “I’m ready to talk now.”

About Laura Kaye:

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

A look at the characters of Forever Freed

June 17, 2013June 14, 2013

Cover Reveal of Laura Kaye’s Taken by the Vampire King

A Story of the Vampire Warrior Kings

Earlier Books in Series:

*****

In the Service of the King

*****

Seduced by the Vampire King

*****

And now for the cover of Taken by the Vampire King

Releases August 1, 2013

Pre-Order Links: Amazon | B&N

Excerpt:

Henrik’s back slammed against a brick wall, the darkness of the narrow alley sheltering their trio from the tourists thronging Tromsø’s streets.

Lars stood at the entrance, making sure no one developed an unhealthy curiosity.

Jakob got right up in Henrik’s face, forearm pressing into the king’s chest. “What happened?”

He shook his head, swallowing thickly, his hunger burning so intensely it was almost a living thing within him. “Wanted her,” he rasped. It hadn’t been a decision. There wasn’t anything rational or conscious about it. From the first moment she’d approached him, he was awash in her appealing scent, like the smoky berries of a vintage wine or the rich bite of an aged, dignified whiskey.

“Wanted her how?”

“I wanted her.” He knocked his head against the brick. Even now, he couldn’t shake the image of the vein’s rhythmic dance along her slender neck or of the luscious dip of her cleavage, both displayed so invitingly by her upswept hair. His fangs throbbed with a want and a need he couldn’t remember feeling in ages. Not to mention the aching hard-on between his legs.

“Straight out no-shit bloodlust?” Something like hope sounded in the warrior’s deep voice.

“Ja.” Henrik heaved a deep breath of cold January air as his imagination unhelpfully replayed how it would’ve gone down. Tearing the gown from her trim body. Holding her curves in his hands. Bearing her up against the wall. Sinking his fangs and his cock in deep until every dark, needy part of him was sated.

“I’ll get her.” Jakob turned away.

The king slammed his hand down on his brother’s shoulder and gripped hard. “Nei.”

“You want her. You need her.”

“I’ll kill her.”

Because he wouldn’t be able to stop.

Once he got a taste, something base and instinctual told him he wouldn’t be able to make himself stop. He’d been so close to the edge of his restraint in the gallery. Only the sound of her voice had pulled him back from the brink.

All he’d wanted was a night out of their mountain citadel, away from the looming promise of death. He thought the jovial atmosphere of the festival would distract him from all that was to come. Instead, it had thrown it right in his face. Christ, he was a catastrophe waiting to happen, already more beast than man. He shook his head again. “I’ll fucking kill her,” he rasped.

“You won’t.”

Acid washed through his gut. “You willing to risk an innocent woman’s life—or her soul—to see which of us is right? I’m not.” He shuddered, the danger of becoming like his evil enemies one of his greatest fears. “Leave her be. I’ll not have it any other way.”

About Laura Kaye:

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

March 25, 2013March 23, 2013

Cover Reveal: Hard as it Gets by Laura Kaye

Amazon Kindle Pre-Order | Amazon Paperback Pre-Order | Nook Pre-Order Coming Soon
Add to Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17331433-hard-as-it-gets

Tall, dark, and lethal…

Trouble just walked into Nicholas Rixey’s tattoo parlor. Becca Merritt is warm, sexy, wholesome-pure catnip to a very jaded Nick. He’s left his military life behind to become co-owner of Hard Ink Tattoo, but Becca is his ex-commander’s daughter. Loyalty won’t let him turn her away. Lust has plenty to do with it too.

With her brother presumed kidnapped, Becca needs Nick. She just wasn’t expecting to want him so much. As their investigation turns into all-out war with an organized crime ring, only Nick can protect her. And only Becca can heal the scars no one else sees.

Desire is the easy part. Love is as hard as it gets. Good thing Nick is always up for a challenge…

About Laura Kaye:

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of nearly a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

March 20, 2013March 19, 2013

Guest Reviewer Hai-Yen reviews Hearts Of Darkness by Laura Kaye

TITLE: Hearts Of Darkness
CHARACTERS: Makenna & Caden
AUTHOR: Laura Kaye
PUBLICATION DATE: 04/21/11
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Makenna James thinks her day can’t get any worse, until she finds herself stuck in a pitch-black elevator with a complete stranger. Distracted by a phone call and juggling too much stuff, the pin-striped accountant caught only a glimpse of a dragon tattoo on his hand before the lights went out.

Caden Grayson is amused when a redhead literally falls at his feet. His amusement turns to panic when the power fails. Despite his piercings, tats, and vicious scar, he’s terrified of the dark and confined spaces. Now, he’s trapped in his own worst nightmare.

To fight fear, they must both reach out and open up. With no preconceived notions based on looks to hold them back, they discover just how much they have in common. In the warming darkness, attraction grows and sparks fly, but will they feel the same when the lights come back on?

REVIEW:
I first discovered Laura Kaye’s work with “Hearts in Darkness” (HID). This story falls into the contemporary romance genre, which was a first for me. I fell completely and utterly in love with HID on so many levels.

For starters, the cover got my attention. I don’t want to sound shallow but I do love a great cover and this cover caught my attention (I mean, have you seen it?!). After reading the blurb, I was curious. What is so special about the story of two strangers stranded in an elevator? Well, when it is written by Laura Kaye, let’s just say it is insanely hot!

Makenna James thinks her day can’t get any worse, until she finds herself stuck in a pitch-black elevator with a complete stranger. Distracted by a phone call and juggling too much stuff, the pin-striped accountant caught only a glimpse of a dragon tattoo on his hand before the lights went out.

The story is compelling and, at times, heartbreaking. The main characters are likable. You cannot help but get attached to them and wish them well. I have never read a love scene that is so explicitly well described and emotionally-charged. I laughed, cried and groaned while reading HID. A truly heartfelt story. I highly recommend HID. You won’t be disappointed. Promise. Laura Kaye has been on my To-Read list ever since.

Disclaimer: The above review was written by a guest reviewer, is the opinion of that reviewer and not a paid review.

August 12, 2012August 10, 2012

Kelly’s review of West of Want by Laura Kaye

West of Want
Hearts of the Amenoi #2
AUTHOR: Laura Kaye
PUBLICATION DATE: 07/10/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Betrayal is all he’s ever known, but in her, he’ll find a love strong enough to be trusted…

When Marcella Raines’ twin brother dies, she honors his request to be buried at sea, never expecting the violent storm that swamps her boat. Recently divorced over her infertility and gravely injured, Ella still fights to survive.

Zephyros Martius is the Supreme God of the West Wind and Spring, but being the strongest Anemoi hasn’t saved him from betrayal and loss—worse, he’s sure his brother Eurus is behind it. When Zeph’s heartbreak whips up a storm that shipwrecks a human, his guilt leads him to save her, but he vows not to get involved.

Ella’s honesty, empathy, and unique calming influence attract Zeph like no other, and he finds himself wanting…everything. Ella knows Zeph’s different and fears rejection, but falls for his otherworldly masculinity and ancient, sad blue eyes. When Eurus threatens Ella, she and Zeph struggle to let go of the past, defend their future, and embrace what they most want—a love that can be trusted

REVIEW:
After almost losing her own life Ella finds herself face to face with a stranger. A stranger that she is drawn to beyond explanation. But Ella is a little gun shy she has been hurt in the past. Trusted blindly and been burned. So how can she learn to put her full trust into someone she just met?

Zephyros suffered betrayal and loss many times in his very, very long life. So when he learns that he is the cause in almost killing a innocent human he does what ever it takes to protect her. But Zeph never thought that he would fall for her. But is he willing to put his heart on the line again?

Ella & Zephyros are two peas in a pod. Both have suffered from loss and betrayal. But can they both learn to trust each other blindly? Because that trust is the only thing that will keep them safe from the Eastern storm that is heading their way.

West of Want is Laura Kaye’s 2nd book in her Hearts of the Anemio Series. While I enjoyed this story I felt at times it was a little rushed. I mean, I am all for the lust at first sight, but Ella really just jumps into this relationship with Zeph with both feet and never looking. But other then that I really like this story a lot. I love the world that Laura has created and I am looking forward to what is next for the Gods.

April 10, 2012

Laura Kaye’s WEST OF WANT Preview & Prize Event

Happy WEST OF WANT Preview & Prizes Event, everyone! Today, April 10, was the original release date for Book 2 in my Hearts of the Anemoi series, West of Want. And then some really cool things happened: my publisher, Entangled Publishing, signed a huge deal with the nation’s biggest book distributor, which means for the first time ever, my books will be shelved in brick-and-mortar bookstores. And then, West of Want received a very nice pre-sales estimate by the booksellers and Barnes and Nobles bought it for all their stores nationwide (and it got bought for airports, too—squee!). The only bad news in this whole scenario was this: the release date got pushed back, by three LONG months! LOL So, I thought I’d celebrate the original release date with a preview of the book and a big contest, and give you a small taste to whet your appetite until the actual release date arrives.

“Laura Kaye’s captivating writing and vibrant world-building will have readers hooked on the gods of the Anemoi. WEST OF WANT is steamy, spellbinding, and a must-read for all romance fantasy fans.”

~Elisabeth Naughton, author of the Eternal Guardians series

Forty sites are celebrating with me today, and there are different posts at those different sites. To see the whole list of participants, click here. Now, without further ado, here’s the book blurb and one of four different never-before-seen excerpts from the book available for you to enjoy:

WEST OF WANT BLURB:

Betrayal is all he’s ever known, but in her, he’ll find a love strong enough to be trusted…

When Marcella Raines’ twin brother dies, she honors his request to be buried at sea, never expecting the violent storm that swamps her boat. Though she’s gravely injured–and still emotionally damaged from her recent divorce–Ella fights to survive.

Zephyros Martius is the Supreme God of the West Wind and Spring, but being the strongest Anemoi hasn’t protected him from betrayal and loss. Worse, he’s sure his brother Eurus is behind it. When Zeph’s heartbreak whips up a storm that shipwrecks a human, his guilt forces him to save her.

Ella is drawn to the vulnerability Zeph hides beneath his otherworldly masculinity and ancient blue eyes. And her honesty, empathy, and unique, calming influence leave Zeph wanting…everything. When Eurus threatens Ella, she and Zeph struggle to let go of the past, defend their future, and embrace what they most want–a love that can be trusted.

WEST OF WANT EXCERPT:

Restrained power made Zephyros’s hands tremble. At first, he’d wanted to help Ella because he owed it to her. Now, want bloomed into need. When he’d held her soft curves, the strength of her life force soaked into him. Seldom did he have any cause to interact with humans, let alone touch them, but the soft yellow aura that surrounded her body told him this woman was good, pure, true. A rare character, in his experience.

And then she’d said his name. Whispered it, really, but that didn’t keep him from fully enjoying the way her lips wrapped around the sound.

Silently, he summoned the ancient, elemental power, the one that flowed through him, that made him what he was. His palms warmed. Soft white light spilled from between his clasped hands.

Ella’s eyes cut to his glowing hands, went wide. “What? Don’t hurt…” She swallowed thickly. A tear leaked down her temple into her hair.

He met Ella’s barely focused gaze. “Fear not, I promise to hurt you no more.”

Her only answer was a shiver that racked her whole body.

Normally, a healing of this magnitude required sacrifice. It was how the gods worked. Quid pro quo, and all that. But, in this case, Ella’s case, that was hardly appropriate. After all, she wouldn’t need to be healed if he’d kept better control of himself.

Words in his native tongue spilled into the quiet of the room. He parted his hands, held them over her prone form, and let the healing energy cover her. The pale, white glow infused her aura, which absorbed the curative force, distributed small doses of it throughout her body.

Ella sucked in a breath.

“Be well, now,” Zeph whispered.

Pre-order West of Want on Amazon| B&N

So, what d’ya think? Want more Zephyros and Ella? Visit more participating sites to read all the excerpts, meet the characters, see the the West of Want romance trading cards, and enter to win! Thanks for reading! July 10 can’t get here soon enough for me! *grins*

~Laura Kaye

“Using ancient winter mythology as an allegory for grief, Kaye has written a sexy story that packs a powerful emotional punch. NORTH OF NEED is pure winter magic and Kaye’s sparkling talent warms the heart.”

~Stephanie Draven, author of the Mythica series about

multi-award-winning Book 1 in the Anemoi series, North of Need

About Laura Kaye:

Voted Breakout Author of the Year in the 2011 GraveTells Readers’ Choice Awards, Laura is a bestselling and award-winning author paranormal and contemporary romance. Hearts in Darknessis the EPIC eBook Award Winner for Best Novella, Forever Freed won the NJRW Golden Leaf Award for Best Paranormal of 2011, and North of Need, the first book in the Hearts of the Anemoi series, was named GraveTells’ Best Book of 2011 and won their 5-STAR Gold Heart Award, and won Sizzling Hot Read of the Year at Sizzling Hot Books. Laura lives in Marylandwith her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bayevery day.

Buy Laura’s Books

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

WEST OF WANT PREVIEW CONTEST!

Event-Wide:

Seven participants who enter through the Rafflecopter form will win gift cards from winners’ choice of Amazon or B&N valued between $15 and $100! Those prize winners will be announced on West of Want’s release day, July 10, 2012. As a special thank you to those who have pre-ordered the print West of Want through Amazon or B&N, you’ll receive extra entries – just enter your order confirmation number on the appropriate Rafflecopter line. Pre-orders are hugely important for an author because they determine how many books bookstores will actually stock and they count toward an author’s first-week sales which is when most authors have their best chance to hit the big bestseller lists. However, pre-orders/purchases are not required to enter. Commenting is the only required entry. Open to international.

2nd Chance to win Giveaway

One commenter from each participating blog site will win a West of Want bookmark and the romance trading cards for North of Need and West of Want. Simply comment to enter to win and be sure to leave your email address. These prizes will be announced soon after May 10. Open to international.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

February 19, 2012

Review of In the Service of the King

In the Service of the King

By Laura Kaye

Kael, Warrior King of the Vampires, loathes the Night of the Proffering. He needs the blood of either his mate or a human virgin to maintain his strength, but hasn’t enjoyed the ritual since he lost his mate centuries ago. Kael doesn’t want a new companion, yet his resolve is tested when he lays eyes on his new offering, Shayla McKinnon. He is drawn to Shayla’s beauty and poise…and the submission she offers. She is eager to give him anything he wishes, including her innocence, to please him. Will Kael give in to their overwhelming desire–even if it means risking Shayla’s life?

My Thoughts:

Shayla has been working hard to find a way to avenge her sister’s murder. Finally finds that way, in the King of Vampires. She just never imagined how much it would change her life.

Kael is just doing what he has to do to survive and have his people survive. But the last thing he wants to do is feed. But one look into Shayla’s mismatched eyes everything changes.

I liked this story, but didn’t love it. I was hoping for a little more action. Maybe a rescue scene or two, but at last it was not to happen. I really wished this story was long. It felt a little rushed to me. I felt like there was more to the story that was not told. Maybe Laura is planning another story for these two. I would like to know what happens next for them. Does Shayla get the revenge she seeks? Does Kael keep his family and people safe? So many questions.

February 6, 2012

Guest blog & Giveaway with Laura Kaye

Huge thanks to Books-n-Kisses for hosting me here today! I’m celebrating the release of my new dark paranormal romance, In the Service of the King, the first in my Vampire Warrior Kings series. I thought I’d play on the awesomely cute name of this blog and assert that there’s nothing better than vampires-n-kisses, too! *winks* And, to prove my case, I’m offering a few vamptastic excerpts to seal the deal.

First, there’s nothing like a first kiss, is there? Here’s Kael’s and Shayla’s:

Shayla’s mind erupted into a cacophony of joyous confusion. She’d been specifically told there would be no kissing. The king did not kiss. But, holy hell! Did the king ever kiss.

His large frame bent down over her, surrounding her in his heat. His full lips sucked and pulled at hers and his tongue demanded entrance and exploration, which she freely granted. His hard muscles bunched and thrummed around her, setting her body on fire everywhere they touched. The scent of powerful masculinity filled her nose, and the exquisite flavor of his tongue in her mouth intoxicated her. And, oh God, every time she felt the passing hardness of his fangs as they kissed made her whimper and moan. Her body readied itself immediately for his, moistening, opening.

Having shielded herself from physical relationships, she was astounded to learn her body had the ability to produce this crazy, urgent euphoria. Her brain scrambled to process each new, maddening sensation. In that moment, she would’ve done anything to maintain the feeling. Was it always like this?

Kael growled low in his chest as his mouth came at her again and again, and Shayla felt the vibration of the feral sound against her breasts. She squeezed her thighs together, seeking friction to satisfy even a little of her now uncontrollable lust. Her mouth was so filled with his probing tongue it was difficult to get enough oxygen, but his kisses convinced her she could live without it as long as he continued to devour her so intensely.

Never had she imagined the expression of physical love could make her feel so wanted, so needed.

His obvious pleasure throbbed against her stomach and flooded her with unbelievable feelings of power, and just a little fear. Because they were off the grid now, outside the bounds of the rules and expectations she’d been taught during her training. And she was thrilled it might mean he was as affected by her as she was by him. Wherever the king was leading them, she was only too happy to follow. In truth, she felt powerless to do otherwise.

While desperate kisses like the one above are amazing, there’s something to be said for soft, sensual ones, too. Like…this one, for example:

This wasn’t the wild kiss he’d claimed her with earlier. His lips found hers gently, reverently, as if he was savoring small tastes of a rare gourmet meal. One large hand grasped her shoulder and the other cupped her cheek—both brought her closer to him. He pulled and sucked at her lips, his hair falling around their faces as he rose up over her. She opened herself before he even demanded it of her—her body remembered his exquisite taste and begged for its return.

Their tongues stroked and explored, but she needed more. She pushed forward just enough to suck his whole tongue deep into her mouth.

Sweet fulfillment exploded against her taste buds, dragging whimpers and moans from her. He groaned and her hands flew to his hair. Her left hand found masses of thick silky bronze she gripped and tugged as she held him to her, but her right hand fell on his jeweled braid. Knowing the significance of it, she yanked her hand back, afraid she’d offended him.

But then his big hand grasped hers where it rested against his chest and pulled it back up

to his head. “Hold me,” he whispered against her lips. “Touch me.”

And, just to make sure my case for the awesomeness of vampires-n-kisses is full-proof, I offer you more kisses, just, this time, not on the mouth:

Shayla licked her lips as she gazed at the red-painted knot over Kael’s heart. She wanted to…to…

She sprang at him and opened her mouth over the red. The moment her tongue touched his skin, she groaned, a nearly strangled sound from deep in her throat. This was the urge she’d been feeling all day. She licked and sucked at the spot over his heart until only his clean tattoo remained. She drew back, whimpering. Not enough. It wasn’t enough.

“Here,” he rasped. He pointed to another symbol painted on the bulge of his bicep.

Needy sounds spilled from her as she pulled his arm to her mouth. She feasted on the mark, but it, too, was gone too soon.

He held his hair away from the left side of his throat. “Again.”

She moaned and climbed up him. His other arm strapped her against him, held her in place while she sucked and licked the red away. Kael grunted and shook under her frenzied attention and it drove her on.

It was blood. His blood. It sang to her, beckoned her. She needed more. So much more.

So, did I successful make my case? *winks* The awesome thing is: we don’t have to choose between books-n-kisses or vampires-n-kisses, do we? Because In the Service of the King proves one can have books-n-vampires-kisses altogether!

Thanks for reading!
Laura Kaye

Buy Laura’s Books

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

GIVEAWAY!

To celebrate her new release, Laura is giving away one e-copy of In the Service of the King at each stop on her New Release Tour, 1/30 – 2/15! In addition, all commenters from across the tour will be entered to win a prize bag filled with swag and various vampire items, perfect for the vampire lover! RULES: Must leave e-mail address & if from

U.S.

in comment. Ebook prizes open to international; prize bag to

U.S.

only.

About In the Service of the Kings

Book 1 in the Vampire Warrior Kings Series

Harlequin Nocturne Cravings

About Laura Kaye

Voted Breakout Author of the Year in the 2011 GraveTells Readers’ Choice Awards, Laura is the bestselling and award-winning author of a half-dozen books. Hearts in Darkness is a finalist for the EPIC eBook Award for Best Novella, Forever Freed won the NJRW Golden Leaf Award for Best Paranormal of 2011, and North of Need, the first book in the Hearts of the Anemoi series, was named GraveTells’ Best Book of 2011 and won their 5-STAR Gold Heart Award, and won Sizzling Hot Read of the Year at Sizzling Hot Books. Laura lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

GIVEAWAY TIME:

To enter for a chance to win Laura’s newest book. Please use the Rafflecopter form below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

December 29, 2011

Winter’s Favorite Giveaway Day~~29

Welcome to Day 29 of Winter’s Favorites

I have the most Awesome Laura Kaye sharing her favorite things about winter…

10 Favorite Things about Winter

By Laura Kaye

Thanks so much to Kelly for hosting me as part of this great winter celebration! She asked me to share my favorite things about winter, and I’m delighted to, especially as I’m currently celebrating a winter/holiday-themed book based on Greek mythology! My contemporary fantasy romance, North of Need, features a long-exiled snow god who falls in love with a grieving widow, so winter’s been on my mind! Here are ten of my favorite things:

Scarves – I am the hugest fan of scarves. I easily have 15 in all different colors and fabrics. I love how cozy and warm they keep you, and how comfortable they are on a cold day. Plus they come in so many colors and patterns, you just can’t have enough!

Christmas lights – Christmas lights still have the ability to make me feel like a kid. I love seeing houses that go all out, and I love driving through big displays of Christmas lights, which is a Christmas Even tradition in my house each year.

Snowmen – And not just because of my book! LOL Seriously! I’ve always loved seeing snowmen after a snow fall. They’re everything playful about winter. I even have a huge collection of snowman figurines, some of which my mom gave me as Christmas gifts when I was a teenager.

Hot chocolate – which lots and lots of whipped cream, natch. In fact, I’m totally okay having a skewed whipped-cream-to-hot-chocolate ratio: in favor of the whipped cream. Winter’s the only time of the year I drink hot chocolate, and it’s just part of the season for me.

Christmas carols – Somehow, they get old fast right after Christmas, but I really enjoy them in the weeks leading up to the holiday. They just make me feel festive and nostalgic.

Snow on the Bay – I live right on the Chesapeake Bay, and I love when it snows or gets cold enough to freeze the little inlet on which we live, and the Bay just sparkles with the wintry mix. It’s completely gorgeous and one of the things I love about winter on the Bay.

Tree light ceremonies – Standing in a crowd of people, everyone anticipating the big moment, counting down from ten: I love the atmosphere of a tree light ceremony!

The Abominable Snowman – I actually love all the characters in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and have eyed the figurines from it on many an occasion! LOL But the Abominable Snowman is just the awesomest. Poor guy just needed his tooth pulled. Come on!

Sleigh rides – I have always been a total horse nut. I don’t ride—though I always wanted to learn, but I still think horses are beautiful and majestic. So, put that together with a totally fun sleigh and a crisp winter night and jingle bells and a blanket to cuddle under, and I’m there!

Christmas morning – I don’t care how old I get, Christmas morning will always feel full of magic to me! And, now that I have small children, that feeling is multiplied tenfold at least. I love the anticipation of it, the just sheer and utter joy, and the kids’ total belief that Santa brought them presents.

So, those are some of my favorite things about winter. What’s yours?

Thanks for reading!

Laura Kaye

Buy Laura’s Books

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

Paperback Dolls called North of Need THE romance read for holiday gift-giving!:

Her tears called a powerful snow god to life, but only her love can grant the humanity he craves…

Desperate to escape agonizing memories of Christmas past, twenty-nine-year-old widow Megan Snow builds a snow family outside the mountain cabin she once shared with her husband, realizing too late that she’s recreated the very thing she’ll never have.

Called to life by Megan’s tears, snow god Owen Winters appears unconscious on her doorstep in the midst of a raging blizzard. As she nurses him to health, Owen finds unexpected solace in her company and unimagined pleasure in the warmth of her body, and vows to win her heart for a chance at humanity.

Megan is drawn to Owen’s mismatched eyes, otherworldly masculinity, and enthusiasm for the littlest things. But this Christmas miracle comes with an expiration–before the snow melts and the temperature rises, Megan must let go of her widow’s grief and learn to trust love again, or she’ll lose Owen forever.

About Laura Kaye:

A multi-published author of paranormal, contemporary and erotic romance, Laura Kaye’s hot, heartfelt stories are all about the universal desire for a place to belong. Laura is the author of the bestselling contemporary romance and award-nominated HEARTS IN DARKNESS and the bestselling and award-winning paranormal romance FOREVER FREED (NJRW Golden Leaf Award for Best Paranormal of 2011), as well as an erotic romance novella, JUST GOTTA SAY. Her fourth book, contemporary fantasy romance NORTH OF NEED, is the first in the 4-book Hearts of the Anemoi series. Laura lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

To enter for a chance to win a $10 Amazon e-gift card. Please leave Laura a comment, tell her what some of your favorite things about winter, then head over to the MAIN Winter’s Favorite page (<< — Click link) to enter the giveaway.

Because it is the season of giving. I am giving you another chance to win Laura’s book…North of Need is up for Sizzling Read of the Year and Eight GraveTells Readers’ Choice Awards–Please consider voting by 12/31. Sizzling Hot Book Review also is giving you a chance to win Laura’s book too, click HERE

September 30, 2011

My Review of Just Gotta Say by Laura Kaye

Just Gotta Say

by Laura Kaye

When Callie Davis stumbles upon two of her three male roommates in a surprising, molten-hot midnight tryst, she discovers a side of herself she never knew existed. Desire to play with them grips her, and she can’t stop fantasizing about having multiple men, particularly her three long-time best friends.

Callie is thrilled when a guys’ night out gives her the perfect opportunity to recreate her fantasy—with the help of a threesome porn video and a bag of sex toys. That is until Lucas, Jack, and Noah return early and catch her in the act. More than anything, the guys want to make her fantasy come true. But Callie has a secret, and she can’t help wondering if being with all three men will risk the future she’s always wanted with one of them.

As three strong sets of hands caress and undress her, Callie surrenders to desire, because sometimes you just gotta say…yes.

My thoughts:

One woman

One fantasy

Three Men *growl*

This was a great, fun, very hot & sexy short read. Laura does a fabulous job of bringing us into Callie & the boy’s world. It was great to see how much each of the guys truly loves Callie and how much Callie loves them. Even if one the holds her heart doesn’t know it yet.

I enjoyed the interaction between all 4 characters but if a little M/M action is not your thing, I do think you will find that in this story is very tastefully done. But I figured I better let you know. I would highly recommend Just Gotta Say to everyone.

A huge THANK YOU to Laura for letting me read Just Gotta Say and I really want to know what Jack & Noah went to go talk about.

Order here:

Decadent Publishing

Amazon

Learn more about Laura and her books HERE