Category: Sizzling PR

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Interview with Laura Deluca

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Laura Deluca to the blog today to talk about her new book Phantom.  



Laura “Luna” DeLuca lives at the beautiful Jersey shore with her husband and four children.  She loves writing in the young adult genre because it keeps her young at heart. In addition to writing fiction, Laura is also the sole author of a popular review blog called New Age Mama. She is an active member of her local pagan community, and has been studying Wicca for close to eight years. 
Website / Facebook / Twitter

 

Can you please share with us a little about yourself. 

In addition to being a young adult author, I am also a mom to four great kids, own a restaurant, and run a product review blog called New Age Mama. I live at the Jersey Shore (no, I don’t know Snooki), and I love spending the summer on the beach. It’s the best place to write.

Have you always wanted to be an author? I knew I was a writer for as long as I can remember. When I was in kindergarten, I wrote a book about bunnies getting married. When I was thirteen, I completed my first novel. I think writing is definitely in my blood, and I’ll probably die with a pen in my hand.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?
I write like I’m still in the 90’s, when I was a teenager myself. I want to hang Guns N Roses posters on the wall, I have people talking on touch tone phones, and I never think to add in cell phones or computers on my first draft. Those are normally things I edit in on the second or third draft when I realize that I forgot what decade it is…

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

Phantom is a modern day version of the Phantom of the Opera.  The high school drama club is performing the play, and like the musical, my heroine, Rebecca, finds herself torn between her two co-stars, the Gothic Phantom, Justyn, and the surfing hero, Tom.  When real life begins to mimic the play, and people start to get hurt, Rebecca needs to figure out who is bringing the twisted character of the Phantom to life before it’s too late.

How did you come with the idea for this story?
I went with a shorter version of the book and play that were inspiration for the story.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
I am currently working on a fantasy novel calledMorrigan. Morrigan is a teenage witch who has been shuffled from one foster home to another all her life.  Now she is about to discover she is a princess from the mystical land of Tír Na NÓg. The handsome werewolf Filtiarn guides her through countless perils to find her mother, Ceridwyn, and grandmother, Hecate. Only together can they complete the magical triad and save their world. 

I am also considering a sequel to Phantom based on the musical “Sweeney Todd”.

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?
I would love to meet Christopher Pike. He was my favorite young adult author when I was a teenager, and he remains my idol to this day. His stories were unique and original. He is still writing today, but has moved on to adult novels.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?
Learn to take criticism and use it to improve your work. This is a harsh business at times, and I have gotten some rejections that made me want to cry. But when I really listened to what they were saying, I could see where my work needed improvement, and it’s made me a better writer, which has subsequently led to me getting published.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list? I want to see Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids before I die. I think it would be great inspiration for future novels.
What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
I am dying to read Taking 1960 by Rosa Sophia. She is my editor and her time travelling book sounds amazing. I actually have a copy already, and plan to start it shortly.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
Thanks so much for including me on your blog! It’s been an honor to visit with you.




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Interview with Christine Warner



Can you please share with us a little about yourself
I am living my dream in rural Michigan along with my husband, three children, one laptop and a much loved assortment of furry friends. 
Besides laughing until my sides hurt, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, reading, writing—but no arithmitic.  I am a confessed people watcher.  You’d be surprised how many times this activity has given me inspiration for stories.  I love to read and write about strong heroes and determined, sometimes sassy, heroines.
I also have a new addiction.  I’m a girl gone wild, at least where social media is concerned.  I enjoy meeting other avid readers and writers on facebook, twitter and my website at christine-warner.com.
Have you always wanted to be an author?
From the time I won a few essay competitions I was bitten with the writing bug.  But I think what really threw me across the line and made me think about writing books was when I was in middle school and won a writing contest.   My story was printed and bound then placed on a shelf in the library.  It was a huge moment for me.
Can you share with us your typical writing day.  Is there anything you have to have while writing?
It’s not very glamorous J  I normally wake up about 5am and start writing.  If I’m being good and the words are flowing on my WIP, I will generally write for several hours.  Sometimes I have to think through a scene and I find that it usually helps to get up and do housework…can you believe that?  Lol.  I have to admit that when I’m washing dishes, folding laundry, vacuuming or whatever, I can usually solve any plot dilemma I come across. 
If I’m not working on a story, or not feeling like working on my WIP, I will spend time outlining a new story, filling out character sketches or reading a book about craft.  I also enjoy socializing on my blog, facebook and twitter.  (which I think I mentioned above…it’s a fun addiction.)
The main thing I have to have while writing is quiet.  I don’t like to have music on or even the tv.  The only sounds I have in the background are the snores of my two dogs.  lol
Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?
The most rewarding part of writing is to start out with just a simple idea and watch it grow into a complete story.  I love the challenge of developing my characters and my plots and having them all fall into place.  And of course when you write “THE END”, there’s no better feeling of accomplishment.
Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?
I’d be happy to.  
Here’s my blurb for Some Like it in Handcuffs:
Some Like it in Handcuffs is available in print and digital format at:
http://thewildrosepress.com/
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/
http://www.amazon.com/

Sunny Kennedy, the only female in a family of blue blood male detectives, is determined to prove testosterone isn’t the only qualification required to solve a cold case. Handcuffed while undercover then taken to the precinct by an attractive detective, her domineering family demands she work with Detective Judson Blackwolf, or she’s off the case.
Judson Blackwolf thinks women in law enforcement should work behind the scenes. The prospect of working with his Captain’s sexy daughter doesn’t thrill him. He only agrees in hopes of solving the murder of his one time mentor’s daughter. Once the case is over, he’s moving to Montana to heal his wounds from the loss of his last partner.
But when their investigation takes a dangerous turn, Sunny and Jud soon realize their feelings for each other cannot be denied.
And here’s a small excerpt:
The sharp rap on the front door echoed through
her apartment and Sunny jumped. One of the
photographs slipped from her hand and fell to the
rug which covered the worn wooden floor. Chocolate
meowed, jumped from the edge of the yellow leather
sofa then took off for the safety of the bedroom.
Sunny hadn’t realized how quiet the room had
become. The crime scene photos absorbed all of her
attention.
On her way to the door, she looked over the top
of her reading glasses to check the clock on the far
wall. Relieved, she smiled, and pushed her glasses
up the ridge of her nose. There was plenty of time
before she needed to get ready for work.
Pulling the door open as far as the chain
allowed, her eyes widened when she recognized her
visitor. Pleasure welled up inside of her at the sight
of Judson standing on the doorstep. At the same
time, a cold grip of dread climbed her spine. She’d
avoided his calls the last couple of days in hopes he’d
forget about her. Apparently he was as persistent as
she.
“Detective Blackwolf, how can I help you?” She
sounded breathless, excited even, and it annoyed
her. Just because he sent her pulse into hyper-speed
didn’t mean she had to let him know.
“I stopped by to make sure you’re okay.”
“Yes, I’m fine. Thanks. Have a good night.” She
started to close the door, but he slapped his palm
against the wood.
“I’ve called and left several messages.” He raised
one eyebrow a fraction and continued, “How about
letting me in for a chat?”
“About what?”
“You can figure it out.” He stared at her through
the narrow slit in the door, his expression devoid of
humor.
“Hmm, you’re full of intrigue, hang on a sec.”
Sunny closed the door to release the chain and
paused chewing on her lower lip. If only she had
pretended not to be at home. She needed to invest in
a peep hole so she could screen her visitors. Taking a
deep breath, she released the lock and gestured him
inside with a defeated wave of her hand. “Come on
in. Let’s talk.”
As he sauntered past her, hands tucked inside
the front pockets of his trousers, her gaze drifted to
the taut fabric stretched over his behind. Heat flared
on her cheeks, and she looked away, but not before
her glasses slid down to the tip of her nose.
How did you come with the idea for this story?
This might sound silly, but I actually came up with the title first.  Some Like it in Handcuffs popped into my head and from that 5 word title a story developed.  Characters were formed, a setting was built and conflicts and plots were worked out.  That seems to be how most of my stories start, I come up with a title and work from that.
Can you share with us your current work in progress?
I’m actually finishing up edits before submitting the sequel to Some Like it in Handcuffs.  This next book is titled Some Like it on the Run and features Sunny’s brother Derek.  This is fast paced and full of action and I’ve loved writing it.  I’m also tweaking a contemporary romance that I’m planning to submit to Entangled Publishing.  They contracted another book of mine recently for their Indulgence Line with Lori Wilde and I’m hoping they’ll consider this next book as well
Who are some of your favorite authors?
If only it were that simple.  Unfortunately I can’t really pick just one.  There are so many authors and so may wonderful books.  I made a vow to myself this year to try new genres and I have several books loaded on my Nook ready to help me expand my reading world.  And in the process I’m excited that I’ll be adding more authors to my “must read” list.
Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style?
Since I don’t really have a favorite author I can’t pinpoint an answer to any certain person in particular.  I would have to say each book I’ve read over the years has influenced me and taught me what I like and don’t like about certain styles.  Of course all of that reading molded me and I’m sure I’ve incorporated several of those likes into my own writing.
 
What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
Besides reading romance, I love reading true crime.  Ann Rule is one of the authors I enjoy the most in that genre.  I’m hoping she’ll have something coming out soon.  As for a book I have in my tbr, unfortunately that pile grows quicker than I can whittle it down.  Time is limited lately.  I have several books I’d like to get started on.  One for sure is from an author friend Brenda Dyer and her book is titled Love’s Prophecy.  I made a promise to myself that I would go outside my comfort zone in regards to different genres and I’ve never read much paranormal.  Brenda’s book is about a vampire and I’m curious to check out her story.  I’ve read several short blurps and I’m way intrigued.
And you can find me at:
My blog/website:  http://christine-warner.com/
Twitter under ChristinesWords: https://twitter.com/#!/ChristinesWords
My Facebook page…stop by and give it a LIKE to keep up on what I have coming up: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Christine-Warner/143430882396013
I love to hear from readers and other authors J  
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Interview with Jenna Jaxon

Please help us welcome Jenna Jaxon to the blog today. 



Can you please share with us a little about yourself
I am a multi-published author of historical and erotic contemporary romance, a wife and mother of two teen-aged girls, a working theatre director and a college instructor.  I have a penchant for the darker side of romance—any way I can make things dark and twisty for you the reader, the better I feel I’ve done my job.
Have you always wanted to be an author? 
Yes.  I wrote my first story when I was in third grade about a woman who finds a kitten.  I distributed copies to the first grade class, so I suppose I can consider myself published at the age of 9. J
What is your most interesting writing quirk?
 When I write scholarly/academic papers, I have to have the TV on or music or music videos so I can tune them out.  When I write romance, I have to have dead silence to write quickly and efficiently.  I think I need to hear my muse and my characters whispering in my ear.
Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)? 
My most recent publication was Almost Perfect, an erotic contemporary novella.  It’s part of Decadent Publishing’s 1Night Stand series and this month’s Read For A Cure Book.  It’s the story of two people stranded on a deserted island who have to come to terms with how they’ve changed in the two years they’ve been divorced.  And what happens when their passion for each other flares again.
How did you come with the idea for this story? 
I was toying with the idea of writing for the 1Night Stand line, thinking about what two people I could bring together who would initially make each other miserable and the idea of a divorced couple suddenly popped into my head.  I was on the Metro in DC.  My muse has such a sense of humor.
Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
My next release (at this point still technically a WIP) is a full length historical romance, Only Scandal WillDo, set in Georgian London.  It’s set to release later this summer.  Then I’m querying another historical, a late-Victorian romance between an English lady and an American architect called As Long As You’re Mine. And this summer I’m working on revising the second book in the Scandal series, Only Marriage Will Do, and my medieval trilogy, Time Enough to Love.
Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?
 Jo Beverley, my favorite romance author.  I’ve loved all her works, especially her Malloren series.  She gave me my love for the Georgian period and my Georgian series is in large part due to her inspiration.
What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?   Keep writing no matter what.  A dear friend , romance author Judi McCoy, once told me  “You can fix crap, you can’t fix nothing.”  She’s absolutely right.
Can you share with us something off your bucket list.
 I want to take a hot air balloon ride.  I’m deathly afraid of heights, but the romance of a balloon ride still calls to me.  I’ll just have to have had a lot of pina coladas before I go. J
What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
 I actually just started one I’d been wanting to read—Stephen King’s 11/22/63.  But one I haven’t started but really want to is Diana Gabaldon’s  Drums of Autumn.  I love me some Jamie Fraser!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I mentioned that Almost Perfect is May’s Read For A Cure book and just wanted to let you know that all publisher proceeds from the book during May go to Relay for Life.  Please Read  For A Cure and help close the book on cancer.
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Interview with Cynthia Racette

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Cynthia Racette to the blog today.  We are looking forward to learning more about her and her new book Windswept. 



Can you please share with us a little about yourself?
I’m kind of a Renaissance woman. Another way of saying I didn’t know what I wanted to do. J My degree is in chemistry and I worked in that field for quite a while, then got a job as a newspaper reporter because I missed writing, then worked as a chemist again and started writing more then. I’m a professional photographer, water color artist, scrapbooker and now, an author.
Have you always wanted to be an author?
Not always, but from my mid-20’s on, yes. My college roommate was the acclaimed science fiction writer Nancy Kress and that was my turning point, I think. Now, I am a writer, and my daughter is also the multi-published erotic romance writer, Cassandra Carr.
What is your most interesting writing quirk?
I like quiet and hate having music on when I’m writing, but don’t mind background noise at all. My daughter and I write at a café in our area food market and the whole town could wander by and I wouldn’t know it.
Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?
My new release is called Windswept. It’s about a family that is torn apart when the husband is unfaithful. The wife, Caroline, must learn to cope on her own after David moves out. Her friendly neighbor tries to take advantage of the couple’s split to make a move for Caroline. She wants to reconcile with her husband but David is guilt-ridden and not sure they should get together. It all revolves around Windswept, the family’s beloved sailboat.
How did you come with the idea for this story?
My hubby and I are both sailors and had a sailboat for years that we adored. I wanted to write something about sailing but also show that in a broken relationship, both parties are hurting.
Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
I am doing my final editing before submission on a book where the husband is suddenly killed in an accident, leaving the wife alone with huge debts and no experience running a household alone. Both of her children grieve in different ways with her older daughter getting into trouble with the police. The detective that arrests her daughter finds himself drawn into the family and particularly to wife Anna.
Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?
Jo Rowling—I think she’s an amazing writer and I read her Harry Potter books over and over just to enjoy her writing.
What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?
Read, read, read and then write, write, write. Include in the reading some books on the craft of writing.
Can you share with us something off your bucket list.
Take my husband to Rome. I went there with my daughter ten years ago and I want him to experience it. St. Peters and the Sistine Chapel are incredible. Also would like to spend winters in the South.
What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
I’m anxious to read 50 Shades of Gray just to see what the furor is about, although I’ve heard it’s not well written. I want to read all the books written by our RWA members and some of ones my publisher has released.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I love writing and the whole publishing scene. There’s a camaraderie among authors and editors and agents, etc. that it’s nice to be a part of.  
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Interview with Xandra James

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to have Xandar James to the blog today. 

1.    Can you please share with us a little about yourself

I’m a married, British author, and have had a serious love affair with romance books, since I was very young and sneaking looks at my Mum’s large stash. If I say to some of your readers I’m a June baby (so a Cancer crab) I’m sure they’ll figure me out i.e. stubborn and moody 😉

2.    Have you always wanted to be an author?

Since I was about ten years old. I was always obsessed with books though. I was one of those kids who were completely happy when alone with multiple tomes – whatever the genre. It was a natural progression to start writing as my parents always said I had a very vivid imagination (although I think that was their way of telling me I could lie through my teeth with the most amazing excuses…lol)

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

I have lots of favourites and am always finding new authors to check out (just have to find the time to read ’em!!).

There are certain points, however, I can pinpoint and say a certain author influenced my own personal journey/writing. Johanna Lindsey was the first full length novel I read (Hearts Aflame) and so lead me to thinking there is (slightly) more out there than category ;). Sidney Sheldon gave me a love of suspense wrapped around a hot romance.  Janet Evanovich for making me laugh and realizing that this sort of book is what I would ultimately like to write. And Kerrelyn Sparks for making me love paranormal books again (with a little humour thrown in). All have been favourites and will probably proceed to be.

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

As I said, Kerrelyn Sparks gave me my love of paranormals back. It was before the whole obsession with vampires in tv and movies came out that I actually starting writing one, though. It started off as a suspense and morphed into a paranormal suspense, which eventually became (over a few years), Reluctant Revenge – my debut book.

And yes, I would consider writing in another genre. I’m not limiting myself – I’m only writing the story that comes out on the page, not trying to make it fit into one certain line.

5.    What are some of your writing rituals?

Well, at the moment, I’m loving taking my laptop and my trusty notebook into my dining room and sitting so I can look out onto the garden with the birds and trees. It’s good for my creativity, it seems. Other things I need are caffeine and little munchies. Apart from that, I don’t have any particular routines or rituals.

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

There’s my debut which is Reluctant Revenge. It’s an erotic, paranormal action/adventure and I love the hero – Nash – completely! 😉


Nash was bound to Sienna completely – by a blood connection and a deep desire. An Enforcer for the Supranormal community, he was obligated to protect his sexy assignment, despite her family devastating his world.

After being betrayed, Sienna falls into the arms of her surly protector; a demon with a secret of his own. But can she face her destiny knowing she’s more dangerous than those Nash was protecting her from?

My second is Shadow Justice – another erotic, paranormal romance with suspense and fantasy thrown in! Another hero I love, Luka, because he’s just so hot 😉

Luka was a bounty hunter who just wanted to do his job and get paid. Being a banished Shadow, he’d learnt the bitter lesson long ago that he was alone, after he was expelled from his home world by his own blood. Now, he needed to understand why he was wanted dead whilst his desire for the fiery haired witch erupted, out of control.   

As a rare moon-witch, all she’d ever known was a life of misery under the oppressive Fae-Guard. Nine years ago Cerys escaped the Meta-World after regretting the forced banishment of a Shadow. Now, she leads a normal life without her abilities and all she wants is to blend in. When a bounty hunter wants to take her back for a crime she didn’t commit, she’s willing to take a chance on her future by trusting the man who had no idea she’d wronged him years before.

7.    How did you come with the idea for these stories?

As I said earlier, the idea for Reluctant Revenge was definitely a work in progress for quite a while. It was actually after a rejection of the first chapter in New Voices 2010 (from mills and boon) that I made it darker and found that Nash had a past (who knew?! Lol). From there, the story just poured out and I wrote it in double quick time.

With Shadow Justice, I’d already written three chapters when I had the idea to make Cerys a moon-witch (probably because I’d spent a lot of time gazing at the night sky, figuring out the plot for my story!). I changed my characters some and then their story came pouring out too and I could barely keep up.

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

I’ve just finished a short story for an anthology called Her Demon Charms. It’s about a succubus who makes a deal with the devil to turn herself mortal. Problems arise when her deal terms state that she must make a man fall in love with her via a dating site and without using her natural, sexy charms to make him bend to her will!

I had a lot of fun writing that one and it’ll hopefully be out around June with Evernight Publishing, in an anthology called Keyboards and Kink.

Currently I’m scribbling down a general outline for a fairy tale. Not sure of the details as yet but I’m sure I’ll give it a good shot at making it fun and sensual 😉

9.    What would you be if you were not an author?

In the publishing/book selling business. I wish I’d have had more guidance at school, when I was choosing my college courses and taking classes etc. It never even crossed my mind that I could work towards something that I loved and be involved in the writing industry (I guess I was too busy hiding at the back of the class, pretending to be listening! Lol).

If I couldn’t be anything to do with the writing industry, I’d probably run a bar or a nightclub. 😉

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

I’ve just started reading the latest Kerrelyn Sparks book in her Love At Stake series. I’ve been waiting for some free time to actually appreciate it and not fall asleep with the book stuck to my face!

I’ve also got the next in the Chicagoland Vampire series from Chloe Neill which I can’t wait to find time to read. Oh and Immortal Love by Danica Avet. Oh and… err… loads actually!

11. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank so much, Kelly, for inviting me here today! I enjoyed answering your questions and checking out your blog.

Oh and I’m always around on the web, so if you see me, please say hi!

Website Twitter  Facebook  Romance Blog  Goodreads
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Interview with Judy Powell

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to have Judy Powell back on the blog today to chat about her newest book Hot Summer 


Can you please share with us a little about yourself.
Thanks so much for having me on your blog today, Kelly.  I live in Ontario, Canada, and I write primarily romance novels although I have one literary fiction novel as well.  I love to read (as do most writers) and I love to study.  I have 5 degrees (a Bachelor’s and 4 Master’s) and am applying to schools to enroll in a sixth degree program.  My brothers think I’m crazy but I love going to school.
Have you always wanted to be an author?
I’ve always loved reading.  I remember joining the library when I was five.  I checked out ‘Ramona the Pest’, my first library book.  I’ve been devouring books ever since, and that stirred in me an interest in writing.  I started to take this seriously about seven years ago and since then I’ve written seven novels and a memoir and have had my essays and short pieces featured in journals.

Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?  I love the late Kathleen Woodiwiss who wrote the historical romance novel, ‘The Wolf and the Dove’.  As we speak I have three copies on my bookshelf.  Every year or two I read the novel all over again, all five hundred pages.  I love the strong sexual tension, the conflict between the characters and their development as the novel progresses.  Of all writers I believe Kathleen Woodiwiss has influenced my writing the most because I try to give my readers the same thrill that she has given me with her expert writing style.  In another genre (memoir) my greatest influence has been Frank McCourt, author of ‘Angela’s Ashes’.  I absolutely enjoy his writer’s voice and, when writing memoir, I try to be as true to my writing voice as he is in his work.
How did you get into writing in this specific genre?  Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre?  When it comes to reading material the romance genre is my first love.  I enjoy reading about arrogant alpha males and the feisty heroines who challenge them.  Because of this, when it came to writing I chose that genre because it is the one I most enjoy reading.  I do write in other genres, however.  I have a literary fiction novel which starts in the fifteenth century and I’ve also written in the memoir category, both long and short pieces.  Another area I would like to branch into is nonfiction (self-help).  I already have the outline for a self-help book for children.
What are some of your writing rituals?
I get up at 4:00 a.m. every day to write, even on weekends.  During the week I write until 7:00 a.m. then break to get ready for my day job and to prepare my son for school.  Usually, by the time the day ends and I’ve made dinner and helped my son with homework I’m too exhausted to write more than a paragraph or two.  The mornings are my favorite writing time – greater focus and clarity at that time of day.
Although many writers type their story directly onto the computer I flow better when I write long hand.  Then a friend helps me out by typing the manuscript.  That way, I can usually get a novel done in a couple of months.
How did you come up with the idea for this story?
I’ve lived and worked in both Chicago and Jamaica (for the same multinational corporation) and so I decided to use both locations as settings in my romance novel, ‘Hot Summer’.  ‘Hot Summer’ was born when a good friend of mine, a record producer, was working on an album.  I was inspired to create the character, Lance, a record producer in Chicago, the typical arrogant alpha male found in lots of romance novels.  I pit him against feisty grad student, Summer Jones.  Both characters have strong personalities and when they butt heads you can imagine the result.  I love stories with characters who challenge each other so that’s what I created in ‘Hot Summer’.

What would you be if you were not an author?
If I were not an author I would be a perpetual student.  As I said before, I love to study because I love to learn new things.  Now, being realistic, I know most people don’t earn money from being a student so it is likely I would become a teacher as that would ensure my constant presence at an institute of learning.  I would be learning each time I interact with my students.
What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?  My ‘To Read’ pile keeps growing as I add writing projects and run out of reading time.  I’ve resorted to reading a lot of my favorite books on audio CD while driving or doing housework.  Right now my list includes ‘Teacher Man’ by Frank McCourt, ‘The Way to Wealth’ by Brian Tracy and ‘Pleasure, Pregnancy and a Proposition’ by Heidi Rice.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I love to hear from my readers.  Readers can reach me through my website at www.judypowell.com.  Stop by for a chat!
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Interview with Nana Malone

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Nana Malone to the blog today to chat a little about life and Sexy in Stilettos.  Her newest release… So lets get started. 

Nana’s love of all things romance and adventure started with a tattered romantic suspense she borrowed from her cousin on a sultry summer afternoon in Ghana at a precocious thirteen.  She’s been in love with kick butt heroines ever since.  With her overactive imagination, and channeling her inner Buffy, it was only a matter a time before she started creating her own characters.
Waiting for her chance at a job as a ninja assassin, Nana, meantime works out her drama, passion and sass with fictional characters every bit as sassy and kick butt as she thinks she is.  Though, until that ninja job comes through, you’ll find her acting out scenes for hubby and puppy while catching up on her favorite reality television shows in sunny San Diego.




Can you please share with us a little about yourself
I’m a Ghanaian American romance author who currently resides in sunny San Diego with Hubster, Bratlette, and Wonder Dog. I primarily  write sexy superheroes paranormals and sexy interracial contemporaries.
Have you always wanted to be an author?
Nope.  There was once a time I wanted to be an MTV VJ. since. My romance writing career started with Bridget…Jones that is. I was in New York hating pretty much every aspect of my PR job but the writing when I picked up Bridget Jones’s Diary from the library. After I stayed up all night to finish it, I wished I could do that, put words to paper and make people laugh or cry or cringe. Then I thought, why not.
What is your most interesting writing quirk?
I have to have a plan of attack.  If I don’t, or worse I deviate, I mentally shut down and spend entirely too much time watching Bravo.
Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?
Sexy in Stilettos is about what happens to you when you have no back up plan for life.
What’s worse than having to watch your sister marry your ex fiancé?  How about when that fiancé fires you from the family business?   
Hyper-organized, event planner Jaya Trudeaux is used to doing things by the book and never making waves.  It’s a strategy that’s served her well until she finds herself in failure alley with no fiancé, no job and her thirtieth birthday looming.  Maybe it’s time to change her methods.  Starting with an unlikely date to the wedding from hell.
The only thing that can tie carefree playboy, Alec Danthers down is his formidable step mother.  When she calls him home to help find his wayward brother, he never imagines an uptight, list making, sass- talking woman would make him think about putting down roots.
Can Jaya put the lists down long enough to enjoy the ride that is Alec?  Will Alec stop running long enough to recognize true love?
Warning: Sexy, sass talking women will make you laugh, cry and want a pair of killer footwear.
How did you come with the idea for this story?
Well my husband has been trying to get me to be more spontaneous and do things without having a plan.  Sometimes with minimal success. J I started to think about what would happen if I had two characters that were more extreme versions of our personalities and how in the world they would ever get together.
Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
Sure thing.  The next in the Protectors series, called Forsaken Protector is due out this June.  Then the next in the In Stilettos series is due this coming August.  I’ve also got three additional books slated for release this year, so busy, busy.
Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?
JR Ward.  She’s managed to build a world we salivate over and her marketing is amazing.  I’d love to pick her brain.
What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?
Write. Write some more.  Study your craft.  Keep writing.  Find someone to give you brutally honest feedback.  I promise you, your mother will not tell you the truth.  Oh, and then keep writing.
Can you share with us something off your bucket list.
Sure.  To see Victoria Falls.  Or the Smoke that Thunders as they call it.
What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
Lover Reborn – JR Ward
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Just a thank you for having me and if anyone wants to get in touch with me, here’s how:
Email: nana@nanamaloneromance.com
Website: www.nanamalone.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nanamalonewriter
Twitter: www.twitter.com/nanamalone
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Spotlight Feature of Sin’s Bite by Patricia Bates

Sin’s Bite  

Lady Kora has spent three hundred years within the hallowed walls of her ancestral home – now on the brink of becoming a full Vampire, she’s faced with the hardest choice ever…claim her mate, one sworn to hunt her kind…or spend eternity alone


Excerpt:
Pale, silver moonlight crept across the faded tapestries hanging from the cold, dank stone walls. Iron hinges creaked when a heavy door opened. A tiny candle flickered and danced as a lone figure moved through the empty halls. The shadows broken on the narrow beam of light fell on the lone occupant of the massive stone palace. Long golden hair curled down over her hips as she walked through the darkness.
She paused, her hand on the icy wall, her attention focused on the world outside the window. Below her, lights flickered and danced in windows. The rich, sweet smell of blood drifted along the wind through the open shutters. Her tongue rubbed over a single, sharp canine. Her pale eyes flashed with red before she retreated to the gloom.
Heavy, throbbing booms drifted up the stairwell. Scarlet lips lifted in a sardonic smile. Her steps beat a rapid tattoo along as she descended the stairs in a flurry of silk and lace. Smoothing a delicate hand down her body, she opened the door to meet the uneasy stare of a thin, hunched figure wrapped in rags.
“Yes?”
“I brung you your order.” He croaked out, his hand shaking badly as he held up a brown wrapped package.
“Thank you,” she turned and lifted a small sack. As she took the parcel, she pressed the coins into the old man’s hand. “You’ll bring me my next order in two days?”
“As you wish.” The old man wrapped his cloak tighter around his stooped shoulders before vanishing into the night.
Pressing the door closed, she eyed the bag for a moment before drifting into the parlor. A flicker of her eyes over the candles had the light rising in the room. Two intricately carved crystal goblets sat atop a silver tray, glittering in the live flames. With care she opened the package and swallowed. A small, intricately stitched leather bag was decorated with bits of bone and feathers, an obvious attempt to procure favor from the gods. Lifting it to her nose she inhaled. Sweet, untainted by the vile habits of humans, it smelled of fresh grass and cool, clear water.
Lady Kora opened the bag and poured it into the delicate looking decanter on the hutch. She drained the last drops into a glass and raised it to her lips. Warm and succulent it slid down her throat with ease, each swallow giving a few more drops of life within her. She sat the glass down atop the polished black piano and took her seat on the padded bench. Her fingers stretched out over the keys, trailing over them like a lover’s caress.
Her pulse throbbed in echo with the music, rising with the wind beyond the stained glass. Each chord sinking like her fangs into flesh, toying with her emotions as she swayed to the beat. Lonely, haunting she closed her eyes as the melody swelled around her like a tempest in a winter storm. The candles in the room flickered, danced before one by one extinguishing into darkness leaving the silver glow of the moon as her only companion.


A little about Patrica: 
Reading has been such a large part of my life. I cut my literary teeth on such author’s as Louis L’Amour, Nora Roberts and Janet Dailey. For me it wasn’t such a jump from reading the wonderful tales these author’s spun to imagining my own. 
Soon I was writing poetry, short stories and by junior high I’d written my first full length romance novel. Since then I’ve taken my love of history and my passion for writing and combined them into what I hope will continue to prove a successful career.
With six books contracted, four of which are currently available in print. All are available in electronic format with the last two ebooks due for a release in May and the other in the summer. I’m currently working on three projects, an erotic paranormal romance featuring a witch who loves Christmas, another Ancient Ireland novel, rich in the history of the Irish Celtic peoples, and plotting out a Cowboy Series tentatively titled “The James Gang”.
Of course I’ve got a lot more on the go. I’m developing and growing my editing company with some amazing authors, working on getting the books that Blade had revamped to fit the submission guidelines for some other publishers and keeping up on my writing and being a full time mom, working outside of the house…its amazing what I can manage in a 16 hour day.
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Interview with Sarah Ballance

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Sarah Ballance to the blog.  We are chatting about life, kids (and she has lots 6!!!) and her new book Tide of Lies.  So lets get started. 



Q1)  Can you please share with us a little about yourself
Hi, and thanks so much for having me! I’m a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom to six children ages 13, 11, 8, 6, 4, and 23 months. That aside, I don’t have a “real job” so I get to say I’m a full time author, LOL. My husband and I live within minutes of the beach and spend as much time on a boat as possible (although it’s not nearly enough!)
Q2)  Have you always wanted to be an author?
No. In fact, I specifically did NOT want to be an author. It wasn’t until after my first book was published (purely a dare and a whim, lol) that I discovered romantic suspense and realized I’d found my calling.
Q3)  What is your most interesting writing quirk?
I wouldn’t dare call any of my quirks interesting, LOL. The quirkiest, perhaps, is my tendency to listen to the same CD over and over and over. For the first couple of years, I wrote to Miranda Lambert’s Kerosene. Now I’m listening to Jason Aldean’s Wide Open. It’s like my brain is programmed to write as soon as I hear those first notes. It’s pretty awesome!
Q4)  Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?
TIDE OF LIES is a contemporary romantic suspense about an old flame, a shocking secret, and a devastating betrayal. When an ex-love reappears in my hero’s life, a chain reaction is set off involving a cold case, a recent crime spree, and this woman he can’t seem to let go. But she’s only the beginning, and the end isn’t one any of them saw coming.
Q5)  How did you come with the idea for this story?
I had to write a novella using the “Timeless Desire” theme for a blog tour, but my plot refused to stick to the 10k word count limit so I added a twist at the end of the first story, FAMILIAR LIGHT, so it leads into TIDE OF LIES. As for the plot itself, I had to sit down with my husband—who doesn’t read romance but rocks at plotting—to figure out how to tie the books together while leaving them as standalone titles. I dare say we pulled it off, but it all started with the blog tour prompt.
Q6)  Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
LAST CALL is a contemporary romantic suspense that will be out soon. Here’s the blurb:

An accidental witness to a murder-for-hire, ex-cop Rhys Clark becomes the target of ruthless killer—one determined to silence her at any cost. Playing dead seems to be the most likely way to stay alive, but when her protection comes in the form of mega-sexy former adversary Nick Massey, Rhys can think of  a few fates worse than death.
Nick Massey may have walked away from his troubles, but he never got past wanting Rhys. Once paired undercover, they’d been nothing but fireworks until a botched assignment ended her career, sending his into a tailspin. Now a mysterious client is willing to pay Nick anything to keep Rhys safe, but it isn’t until fate takes a critical turn that he realizes the devastating truth: he’s been her greatest threat all along.
I’m also working on a free read called STAY THE NIGHT. ;c)


Q7)  Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?
Aside of the couple of authors I already have plans to meet, I have to say Rosalie Stanton tops my wish list. She’s an awesome person, an unfailing friend, and the extent to which she’s helped my writing career is immeasurable.
Q8)  What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?
Find someone who will be honest with you about your work. As authors, we never stop improving (or we never should, that is) and the best thing you can do for yourself is find someone who will point out your weaknesses so you can improve upon them. A cheerleader is great, but endless enthusiastic praise is not how you become a better writer.
Q9)  Can you share with us something off your bucket list.
My husband and I bought a boat last year—one we thought we were years and years away from owning—and one thing we really want to do is travel on it. (When the kids get a little bigger, you just might find me somewhere in the Florida Keys with my laptop, a cold drink, and my hubby there for inspiration.) We wanted to travel the Great Loop (a 5,500-7,000 mile voyage up the East coast, west, and down the Mississippi), but our boat is actually a bit too big to make that particular trip—we need more water to float than some of the passages can afford. *shakes head*
Q10)  What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
I am dying to see Melissa MacKinnon’s debut, RETURN TO ME, with a buy link next to it. The story is amazing, and Melissa is a phenomenal author.
Q11)  Is there anything else you would like to add?
I offer a weekly gift card giveaway on my blog, and all email subscribers are automatically entered. Subscribers are also among the first to find out about the many other giveaways offered by myself and my guests, so it’s a definite win-win situation. *grins* I hope some of our readers will consider joining me. Full details are available at http://sarahballance.wordpress.com/weekly-giveaways/
TIDE OF LIES
A devastating secret. A shocking betrayal. A deadly obsession.

Haunted by three unsolved murders, Detective Holden Whitlow is stunned when his cold case takes a heated turn. Julia Cohen, his ex-lover, is back in town, and in the face of a brutal attack she’s ready to run. No matter how tightly she holds her secrets, for Holden, turning away from the woman he’s spent a decade trying to forget isn’t any more an option than walking away from his job . . .even when it threatens to cost Julia her life.

Julia is still reeling from a past she can’t bear to face. When she becomes the target of a killer, fate throws her back into Holden’s arms, but she’s yet to recover from a truth that has stripped her of everything—and everyone—she loves. Will she tell him the secret that will destroy him, or will her lie destroy them both?

BUY LINKS
NOBLE ROMANCE  https://www.nobleromance.com/Books/409/Tide-of-Lies
AMAZON http://www.amazon.com/Tide-of-Lies-ebook/dp/B007ULLNVC/
BARNES & NOBLE http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1110187690
SARAH BALLANCE | about the author
Sarah and her husband of almost fifteen what he calls “long, long” years live on the mid-Atlantic coast with their six young children, all of whom are perfectly adorable when they’re asleep.  She often jokes that she writes to be around people who will listen to her, but her characters aren’t much better than her kids.  Fortunately, her husband is quite supportive of her writing career, having generously offered to help her research “the good parts” . . .  and she’s never had to ask twice.
WEBSITE  http://www.sarahballance.com/
BLOG  http://sarahballance.wordpress.com/
AMAZON  http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B003WKYEJI
TWITTER  http://twitter.com/#!/SarahBallance
FACEBOOK  http://www.facebook.com/sarah.ballance.author.news 
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Spotlight Feature of Hot Summer by Judy Powell

Hot Summer
Order here:  Amazon | B&N
A hot-tempered spitfire and a sexy, arrogant man – put them together and sparks fly!
After her first embarrassing encounter Summer Jones vows to stay away from suave record producer, Lance Munroe. But then she ends up working for the man. Her quick temper and sharp tongue keep landing her in hot water with him but no matter how hard she tries she can’t deny her growing attraction for him. Then they go on a business trip to Jamaica – and her world is turned upside down.
Lance is intrigued by the feisty woman who practically tells him off the first time they meet. When they begin working together he realizes how much he enjoys the challenge of taming the little tigress. But, before he knows it, he’s the one caught in the snare of passion. The tables are turned – the tigress has tamed the lion.
If you love the sizzle of a romance between two strong-willed individuals, follow Summer and Lance from Chicago to Jamaica and be swept away in the thrill of their hot summer.

EXCERPT
As he spoke he leaned back into the couch and peered up at her through half-closed eyes. She turned away from his gaze and quickly opened the bottles and poured bubbling liquid into both glasses.
“Here you go,” she said with a smile and handed him the drink. She sat on the edge of the sofa beside him but as far away as was polite. She put the glass to her lips and sipped the sharp cold liquid, feeling the bubbles bursting in her mouth.
She felt his eyes on her and gulped more liquid, then opened her eyes wide as it flooded her throat. Her eyes burned and she struggled to swallow but it was no use. Before she could cover her mouth she coughed violently, spraying her lap and the coffee table with soda.
Summer clapped her hands over her mouth, but too late. The damage was already done.  Her eyes grew huge with distress and she looked across at Lance, hot with embarrassment.
“Are you alright?” He’d quickly rested his glass on the table and was leaning towards her, a large white handkerchief in his hand. She took it gratefully, still coughing. Then the spasms gradually subsided and she was able to look at him again. Her eyes were brimming with tears.
“Are you crying?” He looked incredulous, almost out of his depth, as he raised his hand and wiped away a tear with his thumb.
Summer dabbed at her eyes, sniffed, then looked up at him again, her lips curling into a grin.  “Of course not, silly. I’m not crying. It’s the coughing that made my eyes fill up with tears.” Somehow, seeing him look so nonplussed had made her more at ease with him.
“Silly, huh?” He smiled back at her.  “You’re the one who gulped down a carbonated drink too fast and ended up losing the whole lot all over yourself. So, who’s silly?”
While he was speaking Lance had rested his arm at the back of the couch right behind her head and had begun to gently stroke her nape with his thumb. Summer swallowed hard but couldn’t get the lump out of her throat.
 “I guess…I am,” she said, her voice breathless.
“Yes,” he whispered as he leaned forward to press his warm lips against the side of her neck, “you are.”
Summer’s breath came in shallow gasps as she sat still, not feeling she could move even if she wanted to. She was like a bird frozen in the mesmerizing stare of a snake, knowing it was about to be eaten alive but not able to make a move to save its own life.
She moaned and closed her eyes as his lips stroked the sensitive skin then moved to the base of her throat where he licked softly and gently. She didn’t realize that she was still clutching the handkerchief tightly in her hand until she felt his strong fingers pry hers open to pull it away so that he could seduce her palm with his thumb.
“Relax, baby.” He moved his lips up her neck and to her ear.  “You’re so tense. Just relax.”
As he spoke he pushed her back gently into the plush pillows and began to nibble her ear lobe. He gave a lick just behind her ear and shock waves ran down her spine.
“Oh, God,” she breathed, “what are you doing to me?”
“What someone should have done to you a long time ago, Summer Jones,” he whispered.  “Teach you what it means to be a woman.”
He dipped his head and slid his lips back down her neck, over her collar bone and down to that oh, so sensitive place between the curves of her breasts. Here he paused and she held her breath, eyes shut tight, wondering if he was going to stop now. She prayed he wouldn’t.
She was not disappointed. An involuntary gasp escaped her lips as he slipped a warm tongue down her cleavage, sliding it between the orbs and teasing her soft flesh until her body screamed and she felt she would die from the sweet sensation. She grabbed the back of his head and pressed him into her, wanting more of the pleasure, more of the sweetness…

A little about Judy: 
Judy Powell is a writer and marketing consultant who lives in Ontario, Canada. Her works are diverse, featuring romance novels, a historical novel and non-fiction essays which have appeared in anthologies.  Her titles include ‘Hot Summer’ which placed second in the Toronto Romance Writers Contemporary Romance Competition, ‘Hot Chocolat’ – the sequel to ‘Hot Summer’, ‘Some Like It Hot’ – a sensual multicultural romance novel, and ‘Coffee, Cream and Curry’ – a literary work which received the silver medal in a national creative writing competition. 
Judy is a great lover of learning which is reflected in the diversity of her studies which includes Masters degrees in Spanish, Marketing, Literature and Creative Writing and a BA in Foreign Languages & International Business. She is a member of Phi Beta Kappa (US Honor Society), Romance Writers of America, Toronto Romance Writers, and Writers and Editors Network of Canada.  She loves to travel and has lived in countries including Puerto Rico, the USA, France, Jamaica and Canada.  She likes to feature diverse cultures in her works. 
Website

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Interview with Krista Ames

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Krista Ames to the blog today.  



Q1)  Can you please share with us a little about yourself.  
Sure, I’m a wife to a wonderfully supportive man and we have 4 ornery kids.  I live in Michigan where I really don’t like snow in the winter.  I’m still trying to figure out why I moved away from Florida lol. 

Q2)  Have you always wanted to be an author?  
No not always, I wanted to be a Vet and a mom.  I never fulfilled the Vet part but I have 4 kids so I’m happy! And I do love to write.

Q3)  What is your most interesting writing quirk? 
I’m not sure that I’ve really developed anything too interesting.  I always have to have my notebook and a sharpened pencil and caffeine when I write but that’s about it. 

Q4)  Can you please tell us about your latest book(s).  
My latest book is a novella called Second Chances put out by Ruby Lioness Press.  Here’s the blurb:
If you could get a Second Chance…
When the love of Dana’s life leaves without a word, she is forced to move on with her life.  Despite loving him, she believes she will never see him again but, little does she know, she’s being set up for a night that will change her life forever.
Nicholas, A Navy man, did the only thing he could to save the woman he loved.  Driven by a secret, he disappeared and now returns, years later, with hope for love.  With one opportunity, will he be able to make things right, or is it just too late?  Will she deny any desire for Second Chances?
Q5)  How did you come with the idea for this story?  
Honestly I’m not real sure.  I love to read military stories and it just made me want to write one as well so I started with a navy man, came up with a heroine for him to love and the story developed from there. 

Q6)  Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?  
I’m currently working on developing books #2 and #3 after Second Chances called Second Nature and Second Thoughts.  I also have a couple short stories I’m working on in my spare time. 

Q7)  Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why? 
I would love to meet Kate Douglas in person because she is such a great lady and very down to earth.  She’s given me much advice and helpful hints in the last couple years. 

Q8)  What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?  
Don’t ever give up if it’s really what you want.

Q9)  Can you share with us something off your bucket list. 
I have always wanted to go to Ireland.

Q10)  What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?  
Oh gosh, my to be read pile is way beyond scary at this point.  Unfortunately, I don’t have much time to read these days, at least already published books.  There is one series that I really love and it’s Maya Banks’ Colter series.  I’ve only read the first 1 ½ so I’m anxious to read those. 

Q11)  Is there anything else you would like to add?  
I love to hear from my readers so I’d be pleased as punch if you all would come visit me at www.apassionforromance.blogspot or my webpage, www.kristaames.com.  I can also be found on www.twitter.com/kristaames, www.facebook.com/kristaames and www.goodreads.com/kristaames.
Kelly thank you so much for having me on Books-n-Kisses, I had a great time answering your questions!

A little more about Krista: 
Born and raised in Northern Indiana, Krista now resides in Northern Lower Michigan. (apparently she wasn’t getting enough snow in Indiana  ) She is married to a very supportive man, Chip, who allows her to follow her true passion of writing and never complains when she is pirated away on her computer for hours. He even helps with proof-reading and is her “in-house” editor and her idea sounding board. She is also a mother of 4 ornery and wonderful children who keep her plenty busy. With an addition of 2 beautiful chocolate lab sisters and 2 playful cats, there is never a dull or spare moment in her household.
Krista has always loved to read and would often sit up for hours into the night not able to put down a book until she was finished. She still reads when she can but her main focus is creating her own stories to share with the world.
She loves to communicate with her readers so please feel free to drop her a line anytime at krista@kristaames.com or visit her at http://www.kristaames.com or http://www.apassionforromance.blogspot.com.

Second Chance
Amazon | B&N 
If you could get a Second Chance…
When the love of Dana’s life leaves without a word, she is forced to move on with her life.  Despite loving him, she believes she will never see him again but, little does she know, she’s being set up for a night that will change her life forever.
Nicholas, A Navy man, did the only thing he could to save the woman he loved.  Driven by a secret, he disappeared and now returns, years later, with hope for love.  With one opportunity, will he be able to make things right, or is it just too late?  Will she deny any desire for Second Chances?

Excerpt:
He watched her knees buckle a bit as Dana clutched at Amy’s arm, never taking her eyes off him. She said something he couldn’t make out—he never was good at reading lips. He was good at reading body language, however, and he knew in an instant what she meant to do just as she turned and made a dash for the patio door. Instinctively, he propelled himself forward, his body miraculously unfrozen. He had to go after her. He was the reason she was bailing after all. He knew from the look on her face. He passed Dave and Amy and shook his head when Dave tried to speak.
 “Don’t. I’m sorry. I have to go after her.”
He closed the sliding door behind him and stood on the deck, searching the darkness. She wasn’t there. She couldn’t have gone far. She didn’t know anyone else here, and he doubted she was familiar with the area. He descended the stairs and walked out onto the yard along the water’s edge. Where’d she go? He started walking and, with relief, caught sight of a silhouette against the water toward the end of his property.
He approached her quietly. She stood, arms hugging tightly around her middle, and held her shoes in her hand while the gentle waves splashed up and over the seawall. Damn, he wanted to touch her. It’d been so long. He couldn’t deny the growing ache pushing against his heart and a sudden tightening of his groin at the sight of how well that dress fit her curves, but this definitely wasn’t the time for his libido to come to life.
He wanted to turn her, hold her in his arms, and nuzzle her beautiful neck just below her ear like she’d always loved. Would she still like it? Maybe she wouldn’t. Maybe he didn’t know her anymore, but he couldn’t stop himself. God, he wanted this woman still. He wanted her to know how very sorry he was for hurting her, and why. But she wouldn’t welcome his touch, especially now. He was certain of it. She’d likely administer a low blow, which he would totally deserve, and bolt. She was unpredictable that way. He loved that about her, too.
He was only human, however, and he couldn’t not touch her. She knew he was there—he’d seen her form go stiff at his presence. Careful not to scare her, he slowly ran his fingertips over her bare shoulders and down her arms, feeling her shiver at his touch before she took a step away. “Don’t, Nicholas,” she said in a low, shaky whisper.

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Interview with Stephanie Beck

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to have Stephanie Beck on the blog today.  We are going to be talking about SMUT!!!! Yep, you heard me right… SMUT!!!!!  So let’s get this interview started.  




Q1)  Can you please share with us a little about yourself
My name is Stephanie Beck. I’m a romance and erotica writer. I also happen to be a wife and mother with three kids under the age of 7. When I’m not writing or kid chasing I enjoy knitting and baking.
Q2)  Have you always wanted to be an author?
Nope. In my teens I wanted to be a lawyer and even fancied getting into politics. As I grew older I discovered my tolerance for BS was far too low for such fields. I have a real care-taking nature which led to me working as a nurse and home health aide. Now I’m a full time writer and I see my characters as the ones needing TLC.
Q3)  Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?
Kate Douglas, Lora Leigh, and Shelly Laurenston are three of my very favorites. I enjoy paranormal stories very much and these authors presented them in very different ways, yet when I start reading any of their stories, I simply can’t put them down. Influence wise, I think many romance authors opened doors for possibilities for up and coming writers. The standard category romance isn’t the only option anymore and that’s a marvelous thing.
Q4)  How did you get into writing in this specific genre?  Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre?
The series I did for Decadent Publishing was for their Edge series. The super short, super sexy erotica was a blast to write. I’ve read erotica and erotic romance for years, so writing it wasn’t a stretch. I write several different genres and heat levels. I’ve found when I try to focus too strongly on one specific genre or theme I lose my fire.
Q5)  What are some of your writing rituals?
I really don’t have any! With three little kids in the house, if I maintained rituals or schedules I would never write. I’m super flexible and have no problem pounding out a scene between opening fruit snacks and switching laundry.
Q6)  Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?
My latest books are part of the Decadent Publishing Edge Series. Smut Therapy, Smut Interrupted and Searching for Smut are three different mini-stories with different characters and situations, but each has a cowboy theme. The couples vary from husband and wife ranchers needing to spice things up to past lovers in a chance meeting at a sex addict’s class to Searching for Smut about a lady dom looking for a cowboy to ride off into the sunset…with, yeah, with.
Q7)  How did you come with the idea for this story?
My editor and friend, Kate Richards and I got on the topic of boots and boot knocking and how smutty cowboy stories were super fun. When I was invited to write for the Edge, I jumped on it and let the sexy-good cowboy fun roll.
Q8)  Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
At the moment I’m working on stories for my F*ck Like Bunnies series—sexy short stories featuring a cast of horny werebunnies out to find cupcakes and porn. I’m also working on a few other things, but time will tell where they go.
Q9)  What would you be if you were not an author?
I’d probably do a lot of the same of what I do now, only I’d knit more and probably watch other peoples’ kids more often. One day when my kiddos are grown, I’ve always thought running a yarn shop might be fun.
Q10)  What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
I am looking forward to summer reading when I plan to re-read the Harry Potter series and start again from book 1 in the Black Dagger Brotherhood books too.
Q11)  Is there anything else you would like to add?
Smut Therapy, Smut Interrupted and Searching for Smut are all available now and perfect for a quick, sexy pick me up. Thanks so much for having me!
Stephanie Beck is a full time mom, part time writer and armature speller.
She’s been writing since she was fifteen. Her first novel, “Love on the Mats” was a graphic, heartwarming tale of a wrestler and a cutie coed which was lovingly edited by the c-squad basketball team on the long bus rides throughout the season. They were all sure it would be published and it still has a home in a folder…somewhere.
Stephanie Beck loves romance and all things romantic, heart warming and usually funny, though a more serious piece will find its way in occasionally.
In her spare time she knits and sews, walks the dog, plays with her three wonderful children and tries to get her husband to act out the naughty things she researches…oh the sacrifices she makes for her craft.
Website / Facebook / Twitter

What’s a cowboy to do when the love of his life puts him on a boot-knocking schedule?

In hopes of having a baby, Jenny sets a strict sex schedule. For Aaron, the zealous plan takes the fun and freedom away from their sex life, leading to stress and irritability on both of their sides.

To make the baby they both want and survive each other’s tempers until that day, Aaron proposes a little smut therapy, but getting Jenny to agree will require more than words.

Excerpt:
“Are you going to just stand there, you, you, stinking cowboy?” Jenny grabbed aplastic cup from the coffee table and threw it at him, hitting him in the chest. “I was going to go clean the barn, but if you’re not going to help me with my boots then I guess we’re both going to be losers.”
Her breasts heaved with every breath. She wore his favorite tight pink tank top. Just like her snug jeans, it hugged all the right places. She bitched about being built like a boy, but Aaron sure as hell didn’t see the similarities. Maybe she was a little short, but her ass curved, breasts beckoned, and even spouting flames, he wanted her.
Concentrated sexy change was about to arrive at the A & J Ranch. He needed it. She needed it. Patience and understanding hadn’t cut through Jenny’s welling emotions in the past. Wrapped up with negative thoughts, she wasn’t going to be the one to break them out of their funk. And Aaron couldn’t stand being at odds with his wife any longer.
He pushed away from the counter and strolled toward her, taking his time with each step because he knew the lazy swagger drove her crazy. He was the “stinking cowboy” in their relationship, the same as he’d been the day they’d married, nearly five years earlier. Jenny seemed to have forgotten he also knew how to rope her up and make her scream.
As if his calm, quiet approach made her think, she dropped the pillow she held and refused to meet his gaze. Next, she’d cry and let out all her feelings in an avalanche of self-doubt. Even though he loved her and wanted openness, neither of them needed another trip down Emotional Lane.
Aaron nudged her chin up until she looked at him, tears sparkling in her eyes.
“I found your boots outside on the deck after I watered the grass. They’re ruined and I’m glad. They were ugly.”
Fire sparked in her azure gaze, tears gone. “What? You destroyed them?”
“Total loss.”
She shoved his chest. “Jeez, Aaron. You are such a jerk sometimes. Why didn’t you check first? You know where I leave my boots. I swear you do stuff like this just to make me insane.”
He snagged her elbows when she moved to push him again. He didn’t mind her physical nature, but it was time to channel the anger somewhere productive. She glared at him, but he grinned.
“You want me to make you crazy, Jenny? I can do that.”


Anna and Andy are taking a sex addict class against their wills. Seeing each other after years apart opens up all kinds of sexy fun doors. Attending the class is mandatory, but making the most of their breaks is a perk neither expected.

Donna is on the hunt for a cowboy to ride into the sunset. So far, she’s had fun, but nothing special enough to settle down with just one man. Cal’s plan is about to be set into action. After months of watching Donna go through cowboys, he’s done his homework and is ready to offer her everything she wants. When Donna’s real desires come to life, Cal will have to think on his feet if he wants to satisfy her.