Interview & giveaway with Jennifer Estep

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome the wonderful Jennifer Estep to the blog today to chat about being author, life and her newest release Poison Promise (Elemental Assassin)

Jennifer Estep author photo.Jennifer, can you please share with us a little about yourself

JE: My name is Jennifer Estep, and I’m the New York Times bestselling author of the Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series.

The books focus on Gin Blanco, an assassin codenamed the Spider who can control the elements of Ice and Stone. When she’s not busy killing people and righting wrongs, Gin runs a barbecue restaurant called the Pork Pit in the fictional Southern metropolis of Ashland. The city is also home to giants, dwarves, vampires, and elementals – Air, Fire, Ice, and Stone.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

JE: My mom used to take me to the library every Saturday when I was a kid, so that’s how I fell in love with books and reading in the first place. So I think wanting to write my own stories and be an author grew out of that love of books and reading.

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

JE: Some of my favorite writers are Robin McKinley, Donald Westlake, David Eddings, Ian Fleming, Lisa Kleypas, and too many others to name.

Every time I read a really great book, it always inspires me, and I hope that I can write something just as good one day.

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

JE: I’ve always enjoyed fantasy stories and strong heroines, so writing urban fantasy seemed like a natural fit for the kind of stories that I wanted to tell. I also write young adult and paranormal romance.

I have ideas for books in different genres, and I’d love to write a western or a heist book someday. But I will probably always write urban fantasy just because I enjoy it so much.

What are some of your writing rituals?

JE: I know a lot of authors listen to music while they write, but I don’t do that. It’s just me and my computer with no distractions. I always joke that the only thing I need to write is dead silence. LOL.

Poison Promise - cover imageCan you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

JE: Poison Promise, the 11th book in my Elemental Assassin series, will be released on July 22. My heroine Gin Blanco has to protect someone who witnesses a horrific crime, so there’s a lot of magic, action, and adventure in the book. I hope everyone has as much fun reading the book as I did writing it.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

JE: Many times in the series, Gin finds herself getting into trouble because she’s trying to protect her friends and family, and that’s what happens in Poison Promise as well. Being a protector and watching out for people is one of the core things that drives Gin, so it sort of naturally leads to a lot of story ideas.

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

JE: Right now, I’m working on Black Widow, the 12th book in my Elemental Assassin series which will be published on Nov. 25.

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

JE: In the first chapter of Poison Promise, Gin gets into a fight with a couple of vampires.

What would you be if you were not an author?

JE: Good question! I would probably still do something book-related, like be a librarian or work in a bookstore.

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

JE: I have about 40 books waiting in my TBR pile, so I’m looking forward to catching up on books/series by Katie McGarry, Sarah J. Maas, Alex Bledsoe, Scott Lynch, and several other authors.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

JE: Thanks for hosting me on your blog! I appreciate it.

If folks want more info on my books, they can check out my website at www.jenniferestep.com or follow me on Facebook, Goodreads, and Twitter.

Happy reading, everyone!

Jennifer Estep author photo.A little more about Jennifer:

Jennifer Estep is a New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author prowling the streets of her imagination in search of her next fantasy idea. Spider’s BiteWeb of LiesVenomTangled ThreadsSpider’s RevengeBy a ThreadWidow’s Web,Deadly StingHeart of VenomThe Spider, and Poison Promise, along with the e-shorts Thread of Death, Parlor Tricks, andKiss of Venom, are the other titles in her Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series for Pocket Books. The Mythos Academy young adult urban fantasy series and the Bigtime paranormal romance series are her other works. For more on Jennifer and her books, visit JenniferEstep.com and @Jennifer_Estep.

Find Jennifer here: Website Blog | FacebookTwitter (@Jennifer_Estep) | Goodreads

 

 

 

*****

Poison Promise

Poison Promise - cover image

Pub Date:   07/22/14

Amazon | B&N | BAM| Indie Bound Simon & Schuster

In book eleven of her New York Times bestselling Elemental Assassin series, author Jennifer Estep continues “one of the best urban fantasy series going on the market” (Fresh Fiction).
Gin Blanco is hard-nosed, sexy, and lethal. Nicknamed “The Spider,” she’s a stone elemental assassin who brings her unique mix of magic and tact to every assignment, no matter the target.

There’s a new drug on the streets of Ashland, and its name “Burn” sums up the potent effect it has on its users. When one of her restaurant employees is threatened by dealers of the drug, Gin steps in to set things straight…

 

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!!

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Masters of Seduction Release Day Spotlight + Giveaway

Books-n-Kisses is super excited to have four of our favorite authors on the blog today to help promote their new release of  Masters of Seduction: Books 1-4: Paranormal Romance Boxed Set.  I, for one can’t wait to jump into this box  set and learn all about these Masters.   So what do you say we take a little look into the world of the Masters of Seduction.

MOS

Amazon| B&N | Kobo | iTunes

In the realm of the Incubi Masters, pleasure is to die for and love is the deadliest game of all . . .

Surrender to sinful pleasures and forbidden passions with Masters of Seduction, the sizzling new paranormal romance novella series from New York Times and internationally bestselling authors Lara Adrian, Donna Grant, Laura Wright and Alexandra Ivy.

This all-new, never-before-published boxed set contains the first four novellas in the Masters of Seduction series. Each book in the collection is approximately 20-25,000 words.

For more information on the series, visit www.MastersOfSeductionAuthors.com

 *****

Are you interested yet?

Lara, Donna, Laura & Alexandra were nice enough to not only share their new box set but they are giving us a closer look into each story.

So here is a look at each of the stories.

Enjoy!!

*****

Merciless: House of Gravori 

by Lara Adrian 

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Seeking vengeance for the murder of his brother, Incubus Master Devlin Gravori demands justice from the high court of the Nephilim. But fury and retribution are no match for the consuming desire he feels for Nahiri, the beautiful Nephilim warrior he claims as his hostage.

Merciless Excerpt (Used with permission by Lara Adrian © Lara Adrian 2014): 

Nahiri awoke in the middle of a large bed in a strange room.

She shot upright the instant consciousness dawned, her hands reaching automatically for her weapons.

They were gone.

The leather sheaths that crossed her torso were empty.

No. That meant her nightmare hadn’t been just a dream. It was reality.

The Incubus in the temple…Devlin Gravori.

He really had taken her.

Nahiri’s eyelids snapped open in panic. Sunlight poured in from an open window across the room, blasting her vision.

Momentarily blinded, she squinted through her lashes, struggling to take quick stock of her new surroundings.

Creamy stucco walls. Dark hardwood floors and masculine-looking furnishings. Thick timber beams high above her head.

And beneath her, a massive bed. The mattress was as cushiony as a cloud, the cotton sheets and silken coverlet calling to mind all manner of sins.

All around her was the scent of intriguingly exotic spices and something even more enticing.

Him.

She sensed his presence even before she swung her head in his direction and found him seated in an upholstered chair beside the bed. No, not seated in it, exactly. Dominating it. The same way he seemed to dominate every space he occupied.

His big body lounged negligently where he sat, his powerful thighs spread, one arm draped over the side of the chair, the other propping his head up, fist curled loosely under the square line of his jaw.

He’d shed his suit jacket at some point, and now wore just his gray tailored pants and white business shirt. The collar was opened even farther than she recalled, just one more button loosened, but exposing enough of his tawny skin to make her mouth water with a sudden, unholy urge to taste him.

She wanted to dismiss the impulse as one he planted in her mind, but she could tell from the casual way he regarded her that any curiosity she felt in that moment was hers alone.

Nahiri scrambled off the bed. She backed into the farthest corner of the room, eyeing him warily. “Where am I? Where have you taken me?”

“You’re at Gravori House.” He cast a nonchalant look around the room. “More specifically, you’re in my bedroom.”

Even though she could have guessed as much, her heart still climbed into her throat. Since she’d gone to the temple to train at eighteen years old, she hadn’t left the sanctuary grounds even once. Let alone spent so much as a minute in a man’s bedroom.

She might be a virgin, but she had never been a wilting little girl. She was a grown woman. A skilled warrior. She refused to let him intimidate her.

“It was a bad idea to abduct me from the temple,” she informed him. “The Three will see you punished for this, Incubus, regardless of what you mean to do to me. And with or without my weapons, I am still a Blade. I will fight you every step of the way.”

“The same way you did in the High Chamber?”

Her cheeks flamed with heat at the reminder. With humiliation. Her weakness had shamed her in front of the other Blades, in front of the three priestesses who’d entrusted her with their lives. With their faith that she was the best, the strongest, of her peers.

And this demon had disproved all of that in a moment.

He would do it again if he wanted to. He could do anything he wanted to her. Nahiri could see it in the hard glint of his golden eyes.

No, for all her skill—for all her dedication to the teachings and training of the temple—Devlin Gravori could destroy her at his whim.

“I’m not interested in fighting you,” he murmured, as if he could read the troubled direction of her thoughts.

She swallowed, watching the way he stared at her from across the room. He didn’t move, and yet her body trembled as though his hands were already on her, as hot and roaming as his gaze. All the wicked, deviant things she’d ever heard about Incubi appetites poured over her in a rush of dread and terrible anticipation.

“In case you’re worried about it, I’m not interested in raping you either,” he drawled, the corner of his mouth curling around the sensual growl of his deep, rumbling voice. “Forcing a woman isn’t the Incubus way. Never been my way, at any rate.”

Nahiri hiked up her chin. “No, you’ll just bend my will until I submit. Or make me your Thrall so you can siphon my life’s energy for your own. Maybe you’ll manipulate my mind until I beg you to drain me completely. I suppose that would be more your way.”

He grunted, dark amusement in his tone. “I have plenty of women more than happy to slake my needs—all of my needs.”

As reassurances went, his did little to relieve her. He steepled his hands beneath his chin, his citrine gaze locked on her. Nahiri could hardly breathe. His dark energy was gathered about him, pulsating and vivid, but not the way she’d felt it in the temple.

He was holding his demonic allure in check now, despite the heat she felt licking along her limbs and putting a flame to her blood. He intrigued her as much as he unsettled her.

Heaven save her, but he tempted her.

Even as he terrified her, infuriated her…he stirred a dangerous longing in her.

And he knew.

The way he studied her, he knew she was struggling against an attraction she wanted desperately to deny.

One raven brow quirked nearly imperceptibly. “If I wanted to take you as my lover, Nahiri, or feed from you as my Thrall, I wouldn’t need force or Incubus magic to do it.”

The combination of her name on his lips and the terrible truth he spoke made her heart stumble in her chest. It beat shallowly, accelerating in time with her breathing.

And she tried not to notice how his gaze tracked every inch of her body, settling on her breasts as they rose and fell with each rapid squeeze of her lungs.

He got out of the chair and stood in place for a long moment. When he finally moved, his steps were measured, unrushed. So confident, as if doubt was something he never had to trifle with when it came to women.

Of course, he’d told her as much, so his arrogance shouldn’t surprise her now.

Nahiri stood, frozen, as he approached, his thick-muscled thighs carrying him in a slow prowl across the room. He paused an arm’s length away from her.

“Why did you bring me here?” she asked, grateful that the tremors of her body hadn’t found their way into her voice. She could not forget for an instant that she was dealing with a demon. “What do you want from me?”

His sensual mouth twisted in contemplation. “I haven’t decided yet. But let me be clear about one thing, little Blade. You may be pledged to the Three and their precious temple, but in this House, I am Master. So long as I have you under this roof, you will obey me. As of now, your well-being, your life—everything—belongs to me.”

She bristled, outrage shooting through her like fire. She welcomed the anger. It helped eclipse the desire that was still simmering inside her, unwanted and never to be admitted—especially to this overbearing heathen of a man.

Devlin Gravori was mad if he expected her to think of him as anything but her captor.

Her enemy.

And he might as well realize that now.

Nahiri peeled her lips back from her teeth in a furious smile. She squared off against him, ready to do battle even without the benefit of her weapons. “I would rather die before I give anything to you. Willingly or by force. I would see you dead before that day.”

He scowled as she hissed the words into his face. When he raised his hand, she thought for certain he would strike her.

Instead, his broad, warm palm came around the back of her neck. He held her in a firm grip, and brought his face terrifyingly close to hers.

When he spoke his voice was raw, as rough as gravel in his throat. “Be careful with your threats, Nahiri. Those are dangerous words. Particularly when my kin are already grieving the loss of one brother to your kind today.”

She stared up into his fierce golden eyes, transfixed by the power she saw there. By the pain and fury that hardened his handsome features and tightened the lush line of his mouth.

“On the other side of this bedroom door, I have a dozen Incubi brothers and cousins who might be tempted to take your threats against me to heart. They might be tempted toward other things too. But not so long as you’re under my watch. No one takes what belongs to me.”

As he spoke, his gaze drifted to her mouth. It lingered there, and suddenly Nahiri could hardly swallow for the lack of moisture in her throat. Her lips tingled under his gaze, aching for contact. Her temples pounded with her heartbeat, a rising, steady thrum that seemed to echo in the small space between her body and his.

Everything female in her was fixed on this man—this dark, deadly demon—and the unholy need he aroused in her.

“You will obey me,” he muttered, the command like velvet on her senses when it should grate like sharp stones. “As of right now, Nahiri the Blade, you belong to me.”

A little about Lara Adrian: Adrian_L

Lara Adrian is the New York Times and #1 internationally bestselling author of the Midnight Breed vampire romance series and numerous other titles published independently. With nearly 4 million books in print and digital worldwide, and translations licensed in more than 20 countries, Lara’s books have been called “addictively readable” (Chicago Tribune), “strikingly original” (Booklist) and “a must-read” (Fresh Fiction). She lives in New England with her husband, where she is currently at work on her next novel. To learn more about Lara’s books and to sign up for her email newsletter, visit her here  Website| Facebook | Twitter @lara_adrian | Goodreads

*****

Soulless: House of Romerac 

by Donna Grant

Soulless_600x900Incubus Master Canaan Romerac is focused solely on revenge against those who betrayed him and put him in the Oubliette for five hundred years. That is until he sets eyes on Rayna. Can the beautiful Nephilim heal Canaan’s wounded soul before it’s too late.  

Soulless excerpt (Used with permission by Donna Grant © Donna Grant 2014):

There was a pause. “Your skin is flushed, but not from illness.”

Conceited prick. Of course a sex demon would know when she was aroused. “I know you won’t force me, and I’m not interested. So go away.”

She waited for his response, waited to hear the charm and seduction she knew was coming. Except there was nothing. Rayna counted to fifty before she opened her eyes.

And promptly gasped when she found herself staring into eyes of blue-green as fathomless as the sea.

Rayna tried to look away, but only managed to move her eyes to his chiseled chin and jaw that sported a shadow of a beard, making him even sexier. If that was possible.

She caught a glimpse of coal black hair against his shoulder and saw it hung loose, the waves begging her to slide her fingers into the thickness. A lock of that hair fell over his wide forehead to fall against the corner of his eye.

Once more she was caught in his gaze. A woman could drown in such brilliance. Between the brightness of his eyes, the long black lashes, his midnight hair, and his olive skin, he wasn’t just handsome. He was striking, breathtaking.

Magnificent.

“Not interested?” he said, a hint of a smile upon wide, full lips. Lips that no doubt kissed as heavenly as he looked.

Rayna had to try twice to get enough wetness in her mouth to swallow. Even then her voice wouldn’t work so she shook her head.

He leaned forward and ran his index finger softly down the side of her face before pushing her hair over her shoulder. “Say it again.”

Was he insane? Didn’t he realize she was barely holding it together? Or perhaps that was the point. He did realize exactly what kind of precarious situation she was in.

It wasn’t as if she hadn’t known pleasure. She’d had her share of lovers, but not a single one of them had heated her blood like the Incubi before her. And he hadn’t even kissed her.

Victory shone in the Incubus’s beautiful eyes, and the resulting anger was enough that she could remember just why she didn’t want him. She refused to be a pawn in the game played between the Nephilim and the Incubi.

“I don’t want you,” she said. It might be a hoarse whisper, but the words had come.

To make her point even more clear, she shoved past him. It was a mistake as soon as her hand landed on his chest. The resulting heat, the primal need that thrummed through her veins, halted her.

He moved behind her, his warm breath fanning her neck. Unable to stop herself, her eyes closed and her head fell to the side. Soft lips touched the place where her neck met her shoulders. It barely registered before his hot, wet tongue flicked over her skin.

“You’re correct, Nephilim. I won’t force you,” he whispered into her ear. “Your kind is normally so willing to couple with us. What makes you so different?”

Rayna turned to face him, wondering if she was a masochist. Why else would she willingly face someone so damned gorgeous again?

“I walked away from that world. I want nothing to do with it.”

Before she could get in another word, his lips were on hers. There was nothing soft or romantic about the kiss. It was all heat and desire, need and passion.

Lust and longing.

It sent her world spinning. Her body was scorched from the intensity of the kiss.

As suddenly as it began, the kiss ended. Rayna blinked up at him, unsure why he stopped. She licked her lips, liking the taste of him altogether too much.

“Farewell,” he said and disappeared into the night before she could utter a single syllable in response.

A little about Donna Grant: donna_grant_new

Donna Grant has been praised for her “totally addictive” and “unique and sensual” stories.  She’s the author of more than twenty novels spanning multiple genres of romance—Scottish Medieval, dark fantasy, time travel, paranormal, and erotic.  Her latest acclaimed series, Dark Sword, features a thrilling combination of Druids, primeval gods, and immortal Highlanders who are dark, dangerous, and irresistible. She lives with her husband, two children, a dog, and three cats in Texas.

To learn more about Donna and her books, please visit her here: Website | Facebook | Twitter @donna_grant | Goodreads

 

*****

Shameless: House of Vipera

by Laura Wright  

Shameless_1000x1500

Sexy Incubus Master Scarus Vipera has grown weak, and the only thing that will strengthen him again is Rosamund, the power-rich female of the Harem. But the mysterious Nephilim is determined to leave the harem untouched, her heart intact.

Shameless Excerpt (Used with permission by Laura Wright © Laura Wright 2014): 

Rosamund gasped as the man ran his nose along the seam of her sex. Why couldn’t they go away? These stupid, silly Nephilim? Their opinions meant nothing to her. All she wanted was this male. His mouth on her. His tongue inside her.

“Rosamund, you must wake!” called the second female, more urgently this time. “Constance is on her way. There is to be an announcement.”

Rosamund drove her fingers into thick, soft hair in response. Yes! Yes! Right there, male, she urged, squeezing his scalp. He groaned, the sound vibrating against her heat as he nuzzled his way to her swelling clitoris.

The sound of a doorknob rattling entered her consciousness, but she pushed it away. It was the click of a lock being breached that truly yanked her from the rising pleasure, cutting into her dream like a guillotine to the neck. She came awake with a start, eyes flying open, body jackknifing upward into a sitting position. Breathing heavy, she glanced around, blinked. It was pitch black in her little anteroom—the space she’d claimed when she arrived in the Harem nearly one year ago. The space that was all hers. Every other Nephilim in residence lived in shared accommodations—very gratefully and happily. But Rosamund had wanted to be alone.

No. She’d needed to be alone.

“Rosamund, Constance will give you a week in the kitchens if you’re not in attendance,” Eva persisted, inching the door open.

Panic seized Rosamund. She couldn’t have them see her. Not like this. “I’m up,” she called, scrambling off her pallet and rushing to the door. She pressed herself against it, blocking their entrance. “I’m up. I’ll be out in a few minutes.”

There was a momentary pause, then a sigh. “All right,” Eva said. “We will see you in the courtyard. And Rosamund?”

“Yes?” she said with a touch of irritation she wasn’t quite awake enough to hide. Sleep still clung to her mind. Wet heat still claimed everything south of her navel.

“Good morning to you,” the female called.

Oh great Goddess, it had been, Rosamund thought with a groan as she listened to the females’ retreating footsteps. Or could have been. She heaved a sigh and let her head fall back against the wood. She was truly dying to know how her dream ended. She’d been having it nearly every night of her three hundred and sixty one nights in the Harem. And each time, the intensity grew, the need intensified. Granted, she could never see the male’s face clearly, but she knew it was Roger. The human man she’d met and fallen for three months before she’d been called to the Harem. The human man who believed she was away on a yearlong animal research trip in the Australian bush.

The human man who had held her in his arms the night before she left and sworn that he would wait for her forever. But Rosamund knew forever was a relative term—and that waiting wasn’t easy for anyone. Normally a letter from him came once a week, forwarded from a post office box in Sydney. But in the past couple of months she’d received nothing at all.

Her heart squeezed as she pushed away from the door. Just four more days, she reminded herself, setting about lighting the three lamps that lined her tiny bookcase and clothing rack. Four more days until she was back in San Francisco, back to Roger—back to creating the life, the home, the family, she’d always dreamt of having.

With quick, seasoned hands, she performed her daily routine. Tying down her breasts and padding her middle. Applying powders to her face to make her appear sallow and tired, and oils to her long, pale blond hair to make it appear unwashed. And the one last accompaniment that was a guarantee to her continued success—the one she’d had made before leaving San Francisco nearly a year ago—a dental prosthetic that made her teeth look almost rotten.

After slipping on the large pumpkin-colored day robe, she made a quick inventory of her appearance in the cracked half mirror. She looked as she did every day. A younger version of the witch who’d sold Snow White her poisoned apple. She heaved a great sigh of relief. Perfect. No male on Earth would choose her over the stunning Nephilim females of the Harem.

A little about Laura Wright: LauraWrightPic

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

*****

Ruthless: House of Xanthe

 by Alexandra Ivy

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Jian, Master of the House Xanthe, has devoted his life to returning his family to their former prominence.  When he’s offered a contract to hunt down the missing Sovereign, he’s eager to accept. The last thing he expects is to encounter a stunningly beautiful angel who stirs more than his lust

Ruthless Excerpt (Used with permission by Alexandra Ivy © Alexandra Ivy 2014)

Jian, the Master of the House of Xanthe, stood at the edge of the barren, uninhabited island in the middle of the Arctic Ocean.  He grimaced as he studied the jagged mountain of blue ice that soared toward the sky.

Despite the weak sunlight, the breeze was edged with a lethal chill and beneath his feet the ground trembled as the ice abruptly split open.  Only his swift leap to the side prevented him from tumbling into the deep fissure that formed.

Not the first place anyone would willingly choose to spend the night.

Not even a demon.

Thankfully, Jian wasn’t just any demon.

As a powerful Incubus, he could not only compel others with the force of his sexual enchantment, but he was physically impervious to the brutal elements.  He also possessed the unique ability to see through magical illusions.

Which was why he was the current Master of House Xanthe.

Unlike other Incubi Houses, Xanthe didn’t accumulate their wealth through vineyards, or sprawling hotel chains, or sex clubs.

No, their profitable spice trade had been destroyed, and worse, their lands stripped away, after Jian’s grandfather had stood against the House of Marakel and been labeled a traitor by the Council.  Now Xanthe depended on their own skills to rebuild their empire.

Two of Jian’s younger brothers were expert assassins who offered death for an obscene price.  And a handful of cousins sold themselves as mercenaries for other Incubi.

But it was Jian’s ability to gather and collect information that was slowly returning Xanthe to its position among the most respected Houses.

There was nothing in this world, or any other, that paid quite so well as secrets.

A wry smile twisted his lips as he recalled the extremely large fortune that had just been transferred into his account from a human politician who preferred to keep his habit of siphoning funds from his elderly donors from hitting the front page.

“This is a bad idea,” Taka growled.

Jian turned his head to study the large Incubus standing next to him.

The captain of Xanthe’s Watchmen, Taka looked exactly like what he was—a ruthless killer.  Dressed in leather pants and a T-shirt despite the frigid air, he was as large as an ox, with bluntly carved features and a smoothly shaved skull.  His skin was tanned to a rich mahogany, and his arms, which bulged with muscle, were tattooed with the Xanthe House emblem of a warrior.

Jian, on the other hand, was built along leaner lines, with the sleek muscles of a trained swordsman.

His skin was a smooth, unblemished honey and his straight blue-black hair was cut short on the sides, with the top long enough to fall over his wide forehead.  He had a thin blade of a nose and high, narrow cheekbones that whispered of his Far Eastern heritage.  His face was lean, with eyes that were faintly tilted and glowed like melted gold in the sunlight.

 

Alexandra IvyA little about Alexandra Ivy: 

Alexandra Ivy is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Guardians of Eternity series, as well as the Sentinels and Bayou Heat that she writes with Laura Wright.  After majoring in theatre she decided she prefers to bring her characters to life on paper rather than stage.  She lives in Missouri with her family.

Learn more about Alexandra and her books, please visit her here:  WebsiteFacebookTwitter @AlexandraIvyGoodreads

 

 

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GIVEAWAY TIME!!!

Books-n-Kisses will be giving away 2 digital copies of Master of Seduction to two readers.

Please fill out the Rafflecopter form below

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Release Day Blitz of Elisabeth Naughton’s Extreme Measures

*****

Extreme Measures 

(Aegis Security #1)
 
Being prepared for any scenario is the trademark of any good CIA operative, and Eve Wolfe is one of the best. But when her latest mission literally explodes in her face, she wakes up labeled a traitor and—even more surprising—in the custody of elite Aegis Security operative and ex-lover Zane Archer. Although she still secretly has feelings for Zane, he’s now demanding the one thing that she can’t give him: the truth.
When he caught her breaking the rules years ago, Zane let Eve walk away without an explanation. Now someone has not only sabotaged Aegis but also turned an American city into a war zone, and all signs point to Eve. Zane needs answers that can come only from Eve’s still-tempting lips, and he finally has the elusive operative right where he wants her—at his mercy.
Available for purchase at
            
Excerpt:
“I need to look at your shoulder again before you lay down,” she said
at his back.
He didn’t answer, just found the closest bedroom and pulled her
inside. Closing the door with his boot, he tugged off his jacket and tossed it
on a chair to his right, then did the same with his T-shirt and pulled her
toward the bed.
“Impatient, aren’t you?” she mumbled. He set the bag of supplies
they’d picked up on the bed beside him while she shrugged out of her
sweatshirt, dropped it on the ground, then began gently peeling away his
bandages.
Zane closed his eyes and drew in a deep breath. “I’m a man,
darlin’.  We’re always impatient.”
“I remember. This actually looks pretty good. I’m just going to change
the dressing.”
He didn’t want to think about what she remembered. He had enough
memories pinging around in his brains for both of them—and most were the
X-rated variety. He sat still while she removed the soaked bandages, added
antibiotic ointment and covered the wound again. But his stomach clenched every
time her soft fingers grazed his skin, and with every breath he drew, a whiff
of that sweet peach scent bombarded him, amping his awareness and sending blood
straight to his groin.
“There,” she said, placing the last piece of tape over the wound. “Now
you just need to take these before you pass out and you should be good.” She
handed him two pills from the bottle they’d picked up at the pet store and
stepped away.
He snagged her by the wrist. “Where do you think you’re going?”
“To get you a glass of water.”
“No water.” He popped the pills in his mouth and dry swallowed them.
There was just enough light coming through the window to see her exasperated
expression. “Wow. What a stud you are.”
He ignored the sarcasm and patted the mattress beside him. “Get
comfortable, sweetheart.”
She sighed. “Look, Archer. I—”
He jerked her toward him. A yelp slipped from her lips just before she
fell into his body. Heat immediately enveloped him, but he quickly flipped her
to her back, then climbed over her.
“Archer—”
Her warning was laced with just a touch of fear. Just enough to tell
him he’d surprised her. And considering nothing seemed to surprise this woman,
he was using that to his advantage.
He grasped both of her arms at the wrists and pinned them above her
head. Pain ricocheted from his shoulder down his arm and back up again, but he
ignored it. Just like he tried to ignore her trim hips locked between his knees
and the way the light from the window spilled over her breasts and bare abdomen
in that revealing top. “Here’s how this is going to work, sweetheart. I’m going
to close my eyes for a few hours and you’re going to stay right here beside me
where I know you can’t get into any trouble. Then, when I wake, I’ll call
Carter and we can both be rid of each other for good.”
She pursed her lips and lifted her chin, a clear challenge glinting in
her eyes. “I’d like to be rid of you right now.”
“Too bad. You’re stuck with me.” He lowered his weight onto hers, let
go of one arm and cinched the zip tie hidden in his hand around her wrist.
“Archer… What the hell?”
Zane looped the second zip tie through hers, tightened it around his
own wrist, then rolled off her onto his back and drew in a deep breath.
“Oh, my God.” She sat upright. “You did not just do that. Where the fuck did you get more zip ties?”
He yanked on her arm until his lowered back to the bed. “I stole them.
You’re not the only one who can filch goods unnoticed, beautiful.” He relaxed
back into the pillows and closed his eyes. “Now lie down.”
“You are so gonna pay for this.”
He didn’t need to see the smoke pumping from her ears to know it was
there. He could hear it in her voice and feel it in the heat radiating from her
skin. A wry smile curled his lips. “I figure I’m already doing time in
purgatory, thanks to you. A few more years won’t kill me.”
“And to think,” Eve snapped as she flopped back onto the bed, “I was
actually worried about you.”
Zane’s humor faded. “We both know you weren’t worried. You were just
biding your time until you could run. I’m not a stupid southern hick,
sweetheart. Now shut up so I can get some sleep.”
“Don’t mind me,” she muttered, crossing her arms over her chest and
dragging his hand with her. “I’ll just be sitting here plotting all the ways I
can murder you in your sleep.”
He chuckled. Now that was the feisty brunette he remembered. “Just do
it quietly. I’m beat.”
She let out a long, frustrated sigh, but the sound didn’t irritate
Zane like it should, instead it relaxed him. And man, either he was seriously
losing it or all those drugs had finally fried his gray matter. Because lying
next to his archenemy, feeling her heat and smelling her soft, arousing scent, he
suddenly wasn’t focused on revenge. Losing himself in all her softness sounded
a hell of a lot better. And more fun. And, holy hell, way more fucking erotic.
He just wasn’t sure what to do about it.

 

A little about Elisabeth:
Before topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A rabid reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned to a flame, and Naughton now writes full-time. Besides topping bestseller lists, her books have been nominated for some of the industry’s most prestigious awards, such as the RITA® and Golden Heart Awards from Romance Writers of America, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Golden Leaf Award. When not dreaming up new stories, Naughton can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home.

You can find Elisabeth here:

         
Presented By

 

 

Yasmine Galenron’s Night’s End Release Day Blast

NightsEndReleaseDayBlastButton

Welcome to the Release Day Celebration for the finale of Yasmine Galenorn’s Indigo Court series!! NIGHT’S END releases TODAY, and will conclude our journey with Cicely, Grieve, Rhiannon, and the rest of their friends as they battle to end Myst and defeat her army of vampiric fae.

nightsend

Eons ago, vampires tried to turn the dark Fae in order to harness their magic, only to create a demonic enemy more powerful than they could have imagined. Now, in a final push, Myst returns with a vengeance to bring the Golden Wood forever under the rule of the Indigo Court.

Newly crowned Fae Queens Cicely and Rhiannon have embraced their destinies and claimed their thrones. But Myst is rising once more, and now, at the helm of her armies, she begins her final assault on the Golden Wood. As Fae, vampires, and magic-born alike fall under the tide of blood, Cicely and her friends must discover a way to destroy the spidery queen before they—and their people—face total annihilation.

Preorder Night's End from  Amazon Order Night's End Order Night's End Order Night's End Order Night's End Order Night's End Order Night's End Order Night's End Order Night's End

Check out the playlist and read the first chapter of NIGHT’S END here!

For a chance to win a prize basket including a KINDLE PAPERWHITE and other goodies from Yasmine Galenorn, follow the NIGHT’S END blog tour this week and enter at each tour stop!

Sunday, June 29th

Post: The Qwillery

Review: Fang-Freakin-Tastic Reviews

Monday, June 30th

Post: Books Make Me Happy

Review: Saints & Sinners Books

Tuesday, July 1stNightsEndBlogTourButton

Post: Vampire Book Club

Review: Coffee, Books, Life Blog

Live Chat: Coffee Time Romance

Wednesday, July 2nd

Post: Paranormal Book Club

Review: Little Read Riding Hood

Thursday, July 3rd

Post: Literary Escapism

Review: Books That Hook

Friday, July 4th

Post: Herding Cats & Burning Soup

Review: Kelly Smith Reviews

Saturday, July 5th

Post: Reading Between The Wines Book Club

Review: Indy Book Fairy

Appearance / Booksigning: Seattle Mystery Bookshop 12pm – 1:30pm

IndigoCourtSeriesGraphic

If you’re new to the Indigo Court, you can check out some info about the series at these links:

Indigo Court overview
NIGHT MYST blurb, playlist, 1st chapter
NIGHT VEIL blurb, playlist, 1st chapter
NIGHT SEEKER blurb, playlist, 1st chapter
NIGHT VISION blurb, playlist, 1st chapter

 

 

Spotlight feature of Kimberly Kincaid’s Gimme Some Sugar + a tour wide giveaway

Kimberly Kincaid Blog Tour Banner

Kimberly Kincaid Author PicLet’s meet Kimberly:

Kimberly Kincaid writes contemporary romance novels that split the difference between sexy and sweet, taking the traditional idea of boy-meets-girl and infusing it with a sassy magic all her own. She believes in fiery yet flawed characters destined for a crash-course in falling in love– usually the hard way– and injects her trademark humor as well as poignant touches into her writing to create her stories.

Kimberly’s writing journey has led down some bumpy roads (that first manuscript is under the bed, where it is very likely to stay), but there has been some fresh pavement too (her second manuscript earned her very first contest final, and landed the fantastic Maureen Walters at the Curtis Brown Literary Agency). One thing is certain — the wild ride of being a writer is a lot richer in both its ups and downs because of friends and readers along the path.

When Kimberly’s not sitting cross-legged in an ancient desk chair known as “The Pleather Bomber”, she can be found practicing obscene amounts of yoga, whipping up anything from enchiladas to eclairs in her kitchen, or curled up with her nose in a book. She resides in northern Virginia with her wildly patient husband and their three daughters.

Places to find Kimberly Kincaid: WebsiteFacebook Twitter | Goodreads

*****
Gimme Some Sugar

Gimme Some Sugar Cover

 Amazon|KindleB&N Kobo | iTunes

Desperate to escape the spotlight of her failed marriage to a fellow celebrity-chef, Carly di Matisse left New York City for a tiny town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The restaurant she’s running these days may not be chic, but in Pine Mountain she can pretend to be the tough cookie everybody knows and loves. Until she finds herself spending too much time with a way-too-hot contractor whose rugged good looks melt her like butter…

Jackson Carter wasn’t looking for love. But he’s not the kind of man to walk away from a worksite—or from a fiery beauty whose passionate nature provides some irresistible on-the-job benefits…

It’s the perfect temporary arrangement for two ravenous commitment-phobes, except that Jackson and Carly keep coming back for seconds… and thirds… and fourths…

Make sure to check out Kimberly’s review HERE and Kelly’s review HERE.

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Tour Wide Giveaway

$20 Gift Card (Amazon or Barnes & Noble) + Swag Pack

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Guest Blogger Terry Spears

What To Pack When Headed To The Jungle

In Jaguar Hunt, shifter agents Tammy Anderson and David Patterson reluctantly get paired to investigate an important jaguar matter in the jungles of Belize. While they only have a short time to pack for their mission, both seem to know just what to bring. Since they are able to shift into large cats, weapons always at the ready, the focus is on intimate items … neither realizing just how much these items will come in handy when sparks between the two begin to fly.

So what do these enforcers pack when headed to the jungle?

Tammy

  • Lipstick and other essentials—just stuff she usually takes, though she never guesses she will see her lipstick marking a heart on a tree.

  • Lace and silk red hot panties—always a requisite, even though Tammy has no intention of David getting her bag and seeing an eyeful of her undergarments.

  • A teeny, weeny bikini—just in case she goes swimming, but she has no idea she will have to take a shower in it…

David

  • Bathing suit, just in case he can get some swimming in with the she-cat, while not in jaguar form.

  • XXL condoms, he means just to take a couple, not a jumbo size box, nor for Tammy to get HIS bag by accident. But you see, she ditches him, and he is running late, and…

  • Aftershave—the kind that drives females crazy, only he soon learns he doesn’t need to use it because he drives Tammy crazy without it.

So some might say that they look like they prepared for romance when they “signed” up for this mission. But Tammy would say that she only brought what she did for herself and not to entice some hot male cat into getting interested.

And David would say, with a smirk, of course, it’s always good to be prepared.

Here’s an excerpt from Jaguar Hunt showing just what is essential for a trip:

“Missing anything?” she asked. “Doesn’t look like anything else of mine is gone.” She was relieved for that.

“My bottle of aftershave lotion. Wild Earth Essence—the fragrance of Indonesian sandalwood combined with patchouli.”

She had to admit she would like smelling the aftershave on him, though only if he applied a hint of it—much more and her sensitive sense of smell couldn’t handle it.

“The hippies wore patchouli—the odor of pot, sex, and forest. It’s from the mint family,” she said, recalling reading about that somewhere.

“I never thought of it that way, but you’re right.”

She frowned at him, not meaning to, but still… “So you wear it to attract human women?” Here she was defending herself against her brother’s claim that she only dated humans. Did David?

“I haven’t dated a human since last year. Bad mistake.”

“What happened?”

“I learned not to date a woman who had a former boyfriend who wasn’t ready to let her go.”

She waited for him to elaborate, but he didn’t, though she was dying to know what had happened. Not that it should matter, but it piqued her curiosity. Would Maya know?

Maybe David’s brother had told Maya and Tammy could ask her. “I don’t remember you wearing it earlier before you took your shower.” She zipped up her toiletry bag.

“I didn’t need to. I wasn’t planning on being with any human woman,” he reiterated, and smiled a little as if he thought she might care. “In truth, the fragrance attracts jaguars and other kinds of big cats also.”

You see? It’s always important to be prepared!

If you were going on a mission in the hot jungle with a hot male jaguar shifter, what would be the essential item you would bring?

*****

JAGUAR HUNT

Jaguar Hunt

 Release Date: June 3, 2014

Amazon |  B&N

An agent and a jaguar-shifter chase trouble, and each other, through the jungles of Belize

Agent Tammy Anderson has a reputation: she prefers to work alone. So when she’s paired up on a mission with jaguar-shifter David Patterson-who’s only recently been released from jail-to say she’s less than thrilled is a understatement. Until she realizes that this sexy agent has what it takes…

Soon, what started as an “easy” mission to locate a missing jaguar takes the pair to Belize, where they’re chasing down two renegade teen shifters who know more than they’re telling. As the action heats up, can they keep their minds on the job and off each other?

Don’t miss Kelly’s review of Jaguar Hunt HERE

TerrySpearPhotoA little about Terry:

USA Today bestselling author Terry Spear has written over two dozen paranormal romance novels and medieval Highland historical romances. In 2008 HEART OF THE WOLF was named a Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year. A retired officer of the U.S. Army Reserves, Terry also creates award-winning teddy bears that have found homes all over the world. She lives in Crawford, Texas.

WebsiteGoodread Facebook Twitter @TerrySpear

Guest Blogger: Paige Tyler

HER PERFECT MATE (X-OPS Book One)

Paige Tyler

Thank you so much for having me at Books-n-Kisses!  I thought I’d introduce readers to the world of my new X-OPS Series with an inside look at a conversation between the hero, Special Forces Captain Landon Donovan and the resident psychologist at the Department of Covert Operations during a mandatory counseling session all agents must attend after completing their first mission with a new partner. While this scene isn’t in HER PERFECT MATE, I imagine it would have gone something like this.

Landon was a little nervous. He and Ivy had just gotten back from South America and he’d been called in for a mandatory counseling session with the DCO’s head shrink, Marlon Anders. After what happened between him and his new partner down in the jungles of Venezuela, Landon wasn’t too eager to let anyone go sniffing around in his head. But what choice did he have? These stress-reduction sessions were apparently part of the job description at the Department of Covert Ops. If he didn’t do it, he’d just draw that much more attention.

The door to Marlon’s office was open, and the short, curly-haired man motioned him in the second Landon poked in his head.

“Agent Donovan, come in and close the door.” He got to his feet and came around the desk. “I’m glad you were able make it. I know how busy you are right now.”

Busy didn’t even begin to cover it. He and Ivy had just gotten back to the States last night and had at a full day of training ahead of them starting in an hour.

“Have a seat.” Marlon gestured to the couch against the wall. “I’ll get you out of here as fast as I can.” He smiled as he made himself comfortable in an adjacent chair. “Remember, these are confidential sessions—you can tell me anything and it will stay just between the two of us.”

Sure it will. Landon had a sneaking suspicion whatever he said was going to end up in the written report Marlon gave to the director of the DCO. He eyed the sofa. Brown leather, it looked comfortable enough, but he didn’t sit. Marlon smiled at him in that unamused doctor kind of way and gestured to the couch again.

Landon sat, but promised himself he would not—under any circumstances—lie down.

“I understand things got pretty intense down there in South America,” Marlon said. “Tell me about that.”

Landon almost groaned as he remembered the sensation of Ivy’s mouth on his, her body under his hands. But he doubted that was the kind of intense that Marlon was talking about…at least he hoped that wasn’t where the shrink was heading with this.

He propped his ankle on his opposite knee, hoping it would hide the hard-on pitching a tent in his pants. “It wasn’t any more intense than I’m used to. We did the mission, got shot at, shot back, then got the hell out of there.” He shrugged. “Stuff like that was an everyday occurrence back in Special Forces.”

Marlon wrote something down on a pad, then eyed him over the tops of his reading glasses. “Then you and Agent Halliwell got along well? You didn’t find it too hard working with a female EVA?”

While Landon found himself shaking his head and giving a pat answer about how well he and Ivy had worked together—which was true—he couldn’t forget that little nap they’d taken in their tiny makeshift tent. His erection stiffened even more at that and he shifted on the couch.

“And that fact that she’s an EVA,” Marlon continued. “That doesn’t bother you at all?”

Landon hated that acronym—Extremely Valuable Asset. Who the hell came up with that anyway? “No. I have no problem working with a shifter.”

He’d never considered himself much of a cat person, but that was before he met Ivy. With her exotic beauty and long silky hair, she was the epitome of grace—even when she was out there kicking ass.

Marlon took off his glasses and dangled them between his fingers, his gray eyes piercing. “You know Agent Halliwell had problems getting along with her previous partners, right?”

Landon nodded. “She told me.”

“But the two of you have no problems working with each other at all?”

“None,” Landon said.

“I see. And why do you think that is?”

Landon grinned. “I guess we just have better chemistry.”

That was an understatement. Hell, they were jonesing for each other so badly they were practically going nuts. The only thing that had kept them from taking things too far when they were in Venezuela was knowing they were too good together as a team to risk getting split up. Which was what would happen if their boss found out.

Marlon jotted something else down in his notebook, then smiled. “I’m glad to hear that. I was a little concerned that they purposely sent you two on a mission so soon just to see you fail. Nice to see you proved them wrong. I think you two have the makings of a special team.”

Landon couldn’t agree more.

 

HerPerfectMate_CVR USA Today

Amazon |  B&N Are iTunesSourcebooks

He’s a High-Octane Special Ops Pro

When Special Forces Captain Landon Donovan is chosen for an assignment with the Department of Covert Operations, he’s stunned to find his new partner is a beautiful woman who looks like she couldn’t hurt a fly, never mind take down a terrorist.

She’s No Kitten

Ivy Halliwell isn’t your average covert op. She’s a feline shifter, and more dangerous than she looks. Her feline DNA means she can literally bring out the claws when things get dicey. She’s worked with a string of hotheaded military guys who’ve underestimated her special skills in the past. But when she’s partnered with special agent Donovan, a man sexy enough to make any girl purr, things begin to heat up. He doesn’t think she’s a freak-and he’s smokin’ hot. Soon they’re facing a threat even greater than anyone imagines…and an animal magnetism impossible to ignore.

Read an Excerpt

http://paigetylertheauthor.com/BooksHerPerfectMate.html

What are the people saying about Her Perfect Mate: 

“An absolutely perfect story-one I honestly couldn’t put down. One of the best books I’ve read in years. I hope this is the beginning of a very long series, because I definitely want more of Paige Tyler’s shifters.” – Kate Douglas, author of the bestselling Wolf Tales and Spirit Wild series

“A wild, hot, and sexy ride from beginning to end! I loved it!” – Terry Spear, USA Today bestselling author of A SEAL in Wolf’s Clothing

“Once I began, the outside world ceased to exist. It’s exciting and fast paced.” – Paranormal Kiss

“I love a good paranormal romance and this series has started off with a bang!” – Hopeless in Literature Reviews

Check out Kelly & Kimberly’s reviews of Her Perfect Mate HERE 

 

Paige_Tyler_-_Purple_Top_Standing-375x564A little about Paige: 

Paige Tyler is a USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, romantic fiction. She and her very own military hero (also known as her husband) live on the beautiful Florida coast with their adorable fur baby (also known as their dog). Paige graduated with a degree in education, but decided to pursue her passion and write books about hunky alpha males and the kickbutt heroines who fall in love with them.

She is represented by Bob Mecoy.

Learn more about Paige here:

WebsiteBlog Facebook Profile PageFacebook Author Page TwitterPinterestGoogle+ GoodreadsNewsletter | Email: paigetyler@paigetylertheauthor.com

 

Interview & Giveaway with Gina Conkle

Books-n-Kisses is super excited to have first time guest Gina Conkle on the blog today to talk about her newest release.

Gina Conkle 1Gina, can you please share with us a little about yourself

First, thank you for letting me be part of Books-n-Kisses.

I write Viking and Georgian romance with a softly sensual side, which stems from my history nerd-ness. Our family’s big news is we’re moving to the mid-west this summer. My husband grew up in Ohio, but my boys and I have never lived in snow. This will be an adventure!

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Pretty much, yes. I read Gone with the Wind in 5th grade and subsequently wrote a story called ‘The Girl Who Stopped World War III.’ That could be pre-teen hormone drama setting in, or I was bound to write someday.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

I can write just about anywhere. I prefer quiet or some music with my laptop, but I’ve had great productivity with a spiral bound notebook in airports, planes, restaurants, and doctor’s offices.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?9781402294273-PR

Meet the Earl at Midnight is a loose spin on Beauty and the Beast with my “beast” (Edward) quite happy as a recluse, but he needs a woman. He strikes a midnight bargain with Lydia that changes in the light of day with distracting chemistry and secrets revealed.

Edward’s passion for science and Lydia’s passion for art rule their lives until they find each other. The crux of their love story comes to decisions and sacrifices. Both have to answer the question: What do you truly want?

How did you come with the idea for this story?

I needed a break from the Norse hammers in my head! I write Viking romance as well but this character kept showing up covered from head to toe in leather with a tricorn hat pulled low. So, I started writing him and in walked Lydia.

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

I’m almost done with The Lady Meets Her Match (April, 2015). This is book 2 in the Midnight Meetings series and tells the tale of Cyrus, a self-made man dubbed England’s King of Commerce. Sparks fly at a masked ball between Cyrus and a mysterious woman named Claire. She flees at midnight, leaving a shoe behind…a common brown shoe. But, Claire is one Cinderella who doesn’t want her shoe back.

At the same time I’m deep into Norse Fire, book 2 in my Norse series (Dec., 2014). This story features Brand a rough-souled, lone wolf warrior who must work with a feisty slave to save the kingdom. Then comes book 3, Norse Wolf, with Addis, a bad boy Viking who finds himself at the mercy of a tender-hearted healer (Mar. 2015).

As you might’ve guessed there’s a lot of juggling lately.

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

Josie Litton (a pseudonym for Maura Seger). She’s a lyrical and prolific writer. Her book Dream of Me is my all-time #1 top favorite book.

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

Write everyday. Make it a habit.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

I want to hike Hadrian’s Wall. Badly.

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

My reward for getting certain tasks done is to buy Julie Brannagh’s Blitzing Emily and Christina Dodd’s Just the Way You Are.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Kelly, thanks again for hosting me on your blog. The questions were fun.

Learn more about Gina here:

WebsiteTwitter Facebook | Pinterest | NewsletterGoodreads 

9781402294273-PR

Amazon US | Amazon Canada B&N | Kobo iTunesGoogle Play

It’s going to take a Beast to tame this Beauty

Enigma Earl. The Phantom of London. That’s what the gossip pages call Lord Edward Greenwich, a mysterious nobleman who doesn’t show his face in London Society. With a reputation like that, no wonder Lydia Montgomery is horrified to be dragged from bed and packed off to live with him to save her mother from penury.

While Lydia has received all of the training a lady should endure, she’s decidedly un-ladylike. She despises her corset and isn’t interested in marriage. She’d prefer to remain unmarried and spend her time improving her art. But if she wants a chance at happiness, she’ll have to set aside her fear of the earl and discover the man hiding behind the beast.

Will Edward and Lydia’s greatest discovery be each other before time runs out?

Book 1 in the series Midnight Meetings

*****

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!!

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Spotlight Feature of Tangled Innocence by Carrie Ann Ryan

Tangled Innocence

Dante’s Circle Series, Book 4

Tangled Innocence (1)

by Carrie Ann Ryan

Release Date: April 15, 2014

AmazonARe Kobo eStoreAmazon Print | B&N

Humans aren’t as alone as they choose to believe. Every human possesses a trait of supernatural that lays dormant within their genetic make-up. Centuries of diluting and breeding have allowed humans to think they are alone and untouched by magic. But what happens when something changes?

As one of the seven lightning struck women, Nadie Morgan has known for a while now that her fate would be forever changed…and revolve around a certain dragon. From the first time Dante Bell saw Nadie, he knew she was the one for him. There’s just one problem–there’s another in his life he’s waiting on as well.

When Jace Goodwin, a bear shifter and Mediator, finally comes back to the human realm after years away under circumstances out of his control, his first stop is to Dante’s Circle where he not only finds his dragon, but the woman they both have been waiting for.

Once secrets are told and the sparks fly, Nadie’s new life becomes something she never thought possible. However there’s another realm at play and Jace and Nadie’s dragon will have to fight harder than he’s ever fought before to keep the life he’s waited eons for.

Warning: Contains one not-so-innocent human, a bear known for his bear-hugs, a tattooed and pierced dragon with a fiery temper, and a connection so explosive, you’ll be fanning yourself from page one.

Don’t forget to check out Kelly’s review of Tangled Innocence HERE

 

Carrie Ann Ryan (1)A little about Carrie Ann: 

USA Today Bestselling Author Carrie Ann Ryan never thought she’d be a writer. Not really. No, she loved math and science and even went on to graduate school in chemistry. Yes, she read as a kid and devoured teen fiction and Harry Potter, but it wasn’t until someone handed her a romance book in her late teens that she realized that there was something out there just for her. When another author suggested she use the voices in her head for good and not evil, The Redwood Pack and all her other stories were born.

Carrie Ann is a bestselling author of over twenty novels and novellas and has so much more on her mind (and on her spreadsheets *grins*) that she isn’t planning on giving up her dream anytime soon.

Carrie Ann loves hearing from readers. Visit the links to the left to contact her.

Get in touch with Carrie Ann Ryan!

Website BlogFacebook, Author PageFacebook, FriendTwitter Goodreads | Pinterest | Newsletter Email

Kelly’s review of Mine to Crave by Cynthia Eden

Mine #4TITLE: Mine to Crave
SERIES #: Mine #4
CHARACTERS: Drake Archer & Jasmine Bennett
AUTHOR: Cynthia Eden
PUBLICATION DATE: March 11, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

New York Times best-selling author Cynthia Eden continues her dark and sexy “Mine” romantic suspense series with…MINE TO CRAVE.

HE TAKES WHAT HE WANTS.

From the moment that billionaire casino owner Drake Archer sees Jasmine Bennett, he’s obsessed. Consumed by desire for the mysterious redhead, Drake will do anything necessary to claim her. Yet as desire rages between them, danger is stalking ever closer. Drake’s past isn’t dead, and the ex-Special Forces agent will soon have to face the ghosts he left behind.

SHE’S HIDING SECRETS.

Jasmine isn’t who she pretends to be. She’s a woman on a mission—and she’s supposed to be stealing secrets from the mysterious Drake. Falling for him isn’t on her agenda, but when lust and love tangle together, all the rules get broken.

AN ENEMY IS CLOSING IN…

When Drake learns of Jasmine’s betrayal…all hell breaks loose. He knows that he should turn his back on her, but it’s too late for him. He can’t let her go, but he can teach her a lesson. No one betrays him…not without paying a heavy price. Drake will destroy all of the enemies on his trail, he’ll bury his past, and he’ll teach Jasmine to want only him…just as much as he craves her.

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Kelly

NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4

REVIEW:

This was my first book in Cynthia’s Mine Series.  Mine to Crave easily read as a stand alone, but I will say that there are ties from this book that link back to book 1 so I would suggest starting from the beginning. I now have the first 3 books on my Kindle and will be going back and reading very soon.  That said on to the review.

Drake, Drake, Drake.  I am guessing that this guy has never hear that you don’t mess with fate.  Because she always wins.  No matter how hard you try to fight it Fate always wins.   In Drakes case it will be Fate tempting him with something, no someone he never thought he would want, need or ever have. Only problem is that what Fate gives Fate always takes away.

Jasmine is a girl with a lot of secrets and none of them are good.   So when she is hired to hack into Drake’s computer she has no problem.  At least not until she meets Drake and finds a very personal photo of him in his desk drawer.

These two have a bit of a wild ride ahead of them.  But it is a good ride.  Lots of twists and turns along the way.  I will say that there were a few surprises and a few things that were not as surprising.  But all and all I really like that story.  I can’t wait go back and read the first three books and I am looking forward to what Cynthia has in store for us next.

Disclaimer:

I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & Cynthia Eden  in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

 

 

Interview & Giveaway with Melinda Leigh

Books-n-Kisses is super excited to have Melinda Leigh on the blog again to talk about your newest Romance Suspense novel She Can Hide.

Melinda Leigh PicMelinda, for those who don’t know you can you please tell us a little about yourself

ML: Hi everyone! I’m the author of bestselling romantic thrillers, including SHE CAN RUN, my debut International Thriller Award nominated book, and my latest release, SHE CAN HIDE. I’m also a mom, a wife, a martial artist, and a dog person.  I have a fondness for rescue animals, British comedy, and ice cream.

BnK: Melinda, have you always wanted to be an author?

ML: Like all the best things in my life, I became a writer by accident. When my kids were small, I was reading 3-4 books a week because it was the only activity that didn’t wake them up from their afternoon naps. One day my husband suggested I try writing a book instead of reading one. I liked the idea. At first writing was just a hobby. It wasn’t for several more years that I’d try to write as a serious career, but I was hooked.

BnK:  Can you tell us a little about She Can Hide?

ML:  SHE CAN HIDE is the 4th book in the She Can Series (Don’t worry. They’re all stand-alone reads. The connections between the books she can hideare slim.) The story is all about trust. Can a woman who’s already been betrayed learn to trust again, even if her life depends on it?  

BnK:  What is next in the She Can…. series?  I heard a rumor of a novella?

ML:  I have a short story, HE CAN FALL, releasing March 26.  It’s a quick, fast read about a romantic weekend gone horribly wrong.  I’m considering another book in the series. I don’t feel like I’m through with the characters in Westbury, Pennsylvania just yet.  

BnK:  I know you write another Romance Suspense series The Midnight Series.  What is it about the Romance Suspense genre that you love so much?

ML:  Romantic suspense combines my two favorite genres, thrillers and romance. RS is the best of both worlds, a fast-paced exciting thriller with a happily-ever-after (a must for me!).  

BnK:  Do you ever see yourself writing any other genres?

ML:  Sure, why not? Who knows what the future holds? I love to tell stories.  I’m very happy writing RS right now, but I might want to try something else someday.

BnK:  I think I suggest not too long ago that you and Kendra Elliot should team up to write a book.  How is that project going? 😉

ML:  Shhhh. It’s all a big secret. J 

BnK:  What is up next for you?

ML:  Midnight Betrayal is scheduled to release in September, and I’m currently working on a new project, which might turn out to be the start of a new series.  I haven’t decided yet. New projects are so much fun. The possibilities are endless.

BnK:  Melinda, it is always a pleasure to have you on the blog!!  Is there anything else you would like the masses to know before we end?

ML:  I’d love to hear from your readers.  Do you love romantic suspense? What is it about the genre that thrills you?  For any of you who have read the She Can books, is there a particular character you’d love to see her his/her own story?

Once again, it’s been a huge thrill to be here at Books-n-Kisses.  Thank you so much for hosting me today.

BnK:  You are so very welcome!  We always love having you on the blog 🙂

 

*****

She Can Hide

She Can…..#4

she can hide

 Amazon| B&N

From the moment Officer Ethan Hale pulls Abby Foster from icy waters, he senses there’s more to her than meets the eye. Abby has no memory of the accident that submerged her car in the frozen river. Three years ago, Abby was kidnapped and abandoned in a well for a week. The botched police investigation nearly killed her. Abby had moved to the mountains of Pennsylvania for a fresh start, but when it becomes clear that this car crash wasn’t an accident, she knows the violence from her past has caught up with her. But Abby’s former assailant was convicted and imprisoned, so who else wants her dead? Ethan uncovers a fresh string of murders tied to Abby’s past. Someone is trying to kill her, and this time the stalker seems determined to finish the task. As the killer grows bolder, Abby begins to trust Ethan enough to share the truth, her heart, and her life. But to stop the murders, Ethan must make a decision that could jeopardize it all.

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Kelly reviews The Craving by Donna Grant

the cravingTITLE: The Craving
SERIES #: Rogues of Scotland #1
CHARACTERS: Ronan Galt & Meg Alpin
AUTHOR: Donna Grant
PUBLICATION DATE: March 10, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon

BOOK SYNOPSIS:

A QUEST FOR HAPPINESS

Resigned to a lonely life after a fierce betrayal of the man who broke her spirit, Meg Alpin retreats to her family’s castle. In her pursuit to move on with her life, she uncovers long buried secrets and discovers something magical amidst the furniture in the tower. In one instant, her dull world is given bright new meaning in the form of a Highlander too magnificent, too handsome to be real.

A DESIRE FOR FREEDOM

Cursed and caged in a mirror by a gypsy, Ronan Galt’s existence is complete darkness and unquenchable need. When he’s brought back into the light, his distrust of women is at odds with his instant attraction to the beautiful and strong Meg. In his quest to be free of his prison, he will learn the true meaning of love – but will it be too late to claim the woman that was destined to be his?

4 1/4 Hearts
A broken heart
A death and curse….

When you live in the dark for so long it is easy to give up faith of ever seeing the sun again. But when the chance at freedom presence itself Ronan is willing to do anything to gain his freedom again.

Meg knows about heartbreak and distrust. While she was never giving a second chance, Meg is willing to give Ronan a chance to live.

And maybe love?

The Craving is first novella in Donna Grant’s new the Rouges of Scotland series. This was a great story. And like any good novella it left me wanting more and because this was a novella I am going to leave you wanting more with my review. If you love Donna’s historical stories you will really want to grab a copy of this novella!!! I am already looking forward to the next novella in this series

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

4 Hearts
4 Hearts