Spotlight Feature of Winterbloom by Marissa Dobson
Winterbloom is the first book in the Clearwater multi-author series.
It will be re-released April 26th.
There’s a release party on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/
Blurb:
What she needs….
Prepping Winterbloom for the incoming snowstorm is the only thing on Chloe Frost’s agenda when a stranger comes in from the cold.
What he’s looking for…
Tortured by the past, Jordan Sheppard fled everything he knew until his car broke down and sidelined him.
Trapped together…
When this unexpected guest needs a room, these two lonely souls find refuge in each other. Can Chloe help Jordan discover a path through the pain and anger to find love?
Interview with Kacey Hammell
Books-n-Kisses is pleased to have our pal Kacey Hammell back on the blog today to talke about her newest release Sweet Salvation
Kacey, can you please share with us a little about yourself
I’m a mom of three, cattle farmer, wife, school committee volunteer, avidreader, obsessive TV watcher, and I pen a few stories in between all that. *g*
Have you always wanted to be an author?
No. I never thought of it until my husband put the idea in my mind. And I haven’t looked back since!
Can you share with us your typical writing day. Is there anything you have to have while writing?
I have to have my teapot full beside me so I don’t have to get up a lot. I don’t have typical writing days. I strive to do 1-5k a day and sometimes have to write that in bits and pieces. Some days I start writing at 9 a.m. and don’t come up for air until about 3 p.m. – especially during the week when my kids are in school.
Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?
Most challenging – finding the time to write. Not to make excuses, but it’s not always easy with kids’ stuff going on, farming to do, gardening to tend.
Can you please tell us about your latest book?
Sweetest Salvation is a book about second chances, learning to live again and making coming out of despair and darkness after tragedy.
How did you come with the idea for this story?
It’s based loosely on a real-life experience that a dear friend suffered years ago. With her blessing, of course.
Can you share with us your current work in progress?
I have 4 WIPs on the go. I just finished a short story that is a no holds barred story of a prank gone awry. *g*
Who are some of your favorite authors?
There are many. Short list – Cherry Adair, Jaci Burton, Suz Brockmann, JD Robb/Nora Roberts, Sara Brookes, Lucy Felthouse, Lori Foster. The list is very very long. *g*
Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style?
Yes, many of the above have inspired me to work harder, try more things “outside the box”, focus on the characters and plot and remember that it’s about pleasing readers.
Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.
Page 41 (of PDF) – Andy is giving in, about to make love to Hunter … except she doesn’t see it that way. She just wants sex, moments to feel something other than pain and despair. Super hot!
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 the Jaye Wells series – Sabrina Kane series. I got a few of her books at RT Convention last year, signed, but it’s been awhile to get all the books in the series. I hate starting a series then having to wait so I try to get all the books first then sit and read back-to-back. Really looking forward to these books … once my daughter is done! LOL
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Thank you to all readers for their support. Kelly, as always Books-N-Kisses is top-notch in supporting authors. Thank you!
Sweetest Salvation
Contemporary Erotic Romance/Light Bondage
Content Warning: Contains Voyeurism, Spanking, Multiple Partners
ISBN: 978-1-77130-330-9
Available at Evernight Publishing / Amazon.com (more links below)
*An Evernight Publishing Editor’s Pick*
“Hammell did a masterful job creating a story that was an equal measure of sweet and oh-so-sexy.” 4 Stars, The Book Chick with Kick
After the deaths of her husband and child, tragedies that she blames herself for, Andrea “Andy” Sheaver has shut herself off from the world. The only place she finds any relief from her shattered heart is Club Splendor, where she and her husband often frequented together. There, Andy submits to pleasure and pain in situations so her grief is forgotten for a little while.
But Hunter Sullivan won’t stand idly by and watch Andy self-destruct. A friend of her husband, and the owner of Club Splendor, Hunter has kept his love for Andy hidden for years. He refuses to think of her at the club, cold and detached as she’s become, looking for an easy fix to take away the pain in her heart. Hunter wants her to vibrant in life again and sets out to prove he is exactly who she needs.
Excerpt © Kacey Hammell, 2013
“Mr. Sullivan is waiting for you. He said you’d know where to go.” He smiled and winked.
Cheeks on fire, she gave him a small nod and walked ahead. She moved into the bar area and looked around. The place was packed tonight.
There were a few people she recognized, but most were new faces. Hunter’s business was certainly thriving.
Bridget caught sight of her and waved. Andy did the same and turned to the left, down the hall that would take her to room fourteen and Hunter.
Movement caught the corner of her eye, and she looked to her right. At a table in the far corner, Paige and Nolan sat with another couple. She missed a step, but gained her balance again. She hadn’t thought about seeing them again. Paige waved and her husband smiled bright.
The couple’s kindness and understanding arced across the room. Andy smiled and waved back. They’d been there for her the other night. She’d be forever grateful for it.
Reaching the room, she took a deep breath and knocked. Hearing Hunter’s gruff, “Come in,” she turned the knob.
The room, similar to the one she’d used the other night, had a warmer feel to it. The fireplace ablaze, the heat of it welcomed her.
Andy’s gaze swept the room. Furnished with a full living room set, she loved the royal purple and black colors of the furniture and curtains than anything else. This room conveyed privacy and self-indulgence. Her heart rate increased just thinking of all that might have been done in this room.
It was made for sex. Especially with a glass display case that took up the most of wall. Inside were dildos, anal plugs, collars, floggers, cock rings and more toys of pleasure.
Andy’s gaze landed on Hunter where he sat in the center of the couch, arms stretched over the back of it.
“Hi, sweetheart.”
Her gaze narrowed on his and she shut the door behind her. “Don’t you sweetheart me, Hunter. And get that look off your face.”
“What look?”
“That self-righteous look. I might be here, but not for the reasons you think.”
“Then why are you here?” he questioned, his gaze unwavering.
“I wanted to tell you in person that your idea isn’t going to happen. We’ve been… friends too long. You’re Patrick’s best friend. It’s all kinds of wrong.”
He leaned forward, arms resting on his powerful thighs.
His red t-shirt molded his shoulders and the cuffs of the arms looked snug around his biceps. Damn him for being in such great shape.
She shivered, nipples tightening. She needed to get away from him.
“There, I’ve said all I have to say. Goodbye,” she muttered, and turned back toward the door.
Hunter was quickly behind her, arms encasing her as his palms pressed against the door and preventing her retreat.
His breath was warm against her ear. Andy wished she’d left her hair down. At least she wouldn’t be able to feel his breath on her neck.
A shudder ran through her. “Let me out, Hunter. I need to leave.”
“Why? You were so desperate to remain a member and be here the other night. I’m simply offering a safer solution. Me instead of strangers,” he rasped against her ear.
“I don’t have to worry about much with strangers. At least they aren’t people I have to see after the sex is over.”
Hunter pressed in closer behind her, which pushed her farther against the door. She’d always been claustrophobic. And right now, being caged in by this man, made it even harder to breathe than if she was locked in a closet. His chest was firm against her, his mouth against her ear, and his hoarse voice soft.
Her thighs rubbed together and her clit chafed against her thong. The string along her ass was snug. All she had to do was turn around and take what he offered. She wanted a cock inside her.
Dear lord, this was Hunter.
Could she step over the invisible line and take what he offered?
He was attractive, always had been to her. Hell, she’d only been married, not dead. She appreciated a gorgeous man when she saw him.
Hunter always treated with her respect and friendship. She didn’t know how much he dated but had heard women at the club mention his prowess in the bedroom. He could probably give her everything she needed. There would be a sense of safety with him at least.
And her body’s reaction to him today, while surprising, knew what it wanted. While she was sure it was a bad idea for them to journey down this path, she was overwhelmed by the sudden realization that not just any cock would do.
She wanted Hunter. Wanted only him inside her.
Her breath hitched and her lungs filled, making it hard to breathe. No, she didn`t have the courage to give into this man.
She needed to get out of this room and away from him. Grabbing the doorknob once more, Andy yanked.
Hunter’s palms never moved from the door, but in her hasty movements, his chest aligned tighter against her back.
Pressed against the door, she turned her head, her right cheek resting on it as her breasts pushed against her bra. The hard surface scraped against her clothing, which abraded her nipples. The urge to purr and rub against the wood was overwhelming.
Hunter’s body pressed against her; the cock cradling her ass told her that he was just as affected as she. His length was hard, solid. His hips dipped and shoved against the crack of her ass.
“Andy,” he whispered in her ear.
She closed her eyes, willed herself to push back against him until he let her go.
Her eyes opened when she realized her hips moved against his. Her pussy quivered and her stomach clenched. There was no sense in fighting a losing battle. She wanted him.
Buy Links:
Evernight Publishing / Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon UK /
aRe / Bookstrand / B&N / Kobo
~~~
Canadian author, Kacey Hammell is a multi-published erotic romance author who writes mainly in the Contemporary Erotic/Romantic Suspense genres. She is a true romantic at heart.
Where to find Kacey…
Website / Facebook / Facebook Author Page / Twitter / Amazon / Goodreads / Pinterest
Kelly reviews Love Irresistibly by Julie James
TITLE: Love Irresistibly
SERIES: FBI/ US Attorney #4
CHARACTERS: Cade Madison & Brooke Parker
AUTHOR: Julie James
PUBLICATION DATE: April 2, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
HE’S USED TO GETTING WHAT HE WANTS…
A former football star and one of Chicago’s top prosecutors, Assistant U.S. Attorney Cade Morgan will do anything to nail a corrupt state senator, which means he needs Brooke Parker’s help. As general counsel for a restaurant company, she can get a bug to the senator’s table at one of her five-star restaurants so the FBI can eavesdrop on him. All Cade has to do is convince Brooke to cooperate—and he’s not afraid to use a little charm, or the power of his office, to do just that.
AND WHAT HE WANTS IS HER.
A savvy businesswoman, Brooke knows she needs to play ball with the U.S. Attorney’s office—even if it means working with Cade. No doubt there’s a sizzling attraction beneath all their sarcastic quips, but Brooke is determined to keep things casual. Cade agrees—until a surprising turn of events throws his life into turmoil, and he realizes that he wants more than just a good time from the one woman with whom he could fall terrifyingly, irresistibly in love .
REVIEW:
This was my first book in Julie James FBI/US Attorney series. Yes, I started with book 4. But Love Irresistibly easily stands on it’s own. There was mention of other characters that I assume where from books 1, 2 or 3. But I never felt lost.
Cade & Brooke are a great couple. Both seem set on not really ever needing anyone in their life. Their jobs have always come first. But Cade & Brooke learn quickly that all work and no play is no way to live your life.
I really liked Cade & Brooke. I really like the story, although at times I was a little bored. But even with that I did enjoy this story.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
Jennifer reviews Greta And The Goblin King by Chloe Jacobs
TITLE: Greta and The Goblin King
AUTHOR: Chloe Jacobs
PUBLICATION DATE: 11/13/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
While trying to save her brother from the witch three years ago, Greta was thrown into the fire herself, falling through a portal to a dangerous world where humans are the enemy, and every ogre, goblin, and ghoul has a dark side that comes out with the full moon. To survive, 17-year-old Greta has hidden her humanity and taken the job of bounty hunter–and she’s good at what she does. So good, she’s caught the attention of Mylena’s young Goblin King, the darkly enticing Isaac, who invades her dreams and undermines her determination to escape. But Greta’s not the only one looking to get out of Mylena. The full moon is mere days away, and an ancient evil being knows she’s the key to opening the portal. If Greta fails, she and the boys she finds stranded in the woods will die. If she succeeds, no world will be safe from what follows her back….
REVIEW:
Chloe Jacobs has created a fantastic paranormal novel that had me entranced with its characters from the very beginning. Greta was a tough-minded young woman who did what she needed to survive in a world where she is the enemy that everyone fears. I was amazed at her character because she was hiding her true identity while trying to make a life in this strange new world. She tried to make the best of her situation while always hoping for a way back home to her family. I loved her interactions with Isaac, the Goblin King, and their love-hate relationship throughout the course of this book. Isaac was a very dark brooding hero and you were never really sure of his true motives when it came to Greta. This book was action-packed and never slowed down for a second for readers to catch their breath during this story. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author and I hope that there is another story about Greta and the interesting inhabitants of the Mylena World.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Guest Reviewer Jaime reviews The Maid and The Queen by Nancy Goldstone
TITLE: The Maid and The Queen: The Secret History of Joan of Arc
AUTHOR: Nancy Goldstone
PUBLICATION DATE: 03/29/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The untold story of the extraordinary queen who championed Joan of Arc.
Politically astute, ambitious, and beautiful, Yolande of Aragon, queen of Sicily, was one of the most powerful women of the Middle Ages. Caught in the complex dynastic battle of the Hundred Years War, Yolande championed the dauphin’s cause against the forces of England and Burgundy, drawing on her savvy, her statecraft, and her intimate network of spies. But the enemy seemed invincible. Just as French hopes dimmed, an astonishingly courageous young woman named Joan of Arc arrived from the farthest recesses of the kingdom, claiming she carried a divine message-a message that would change the course of history and ultimately lead to the coronation of Charles VII and the triumph of France.
Now, on the six hundredth anniversary of the birth of Joan of Arc, this fascinating book explores the relationship between these two remarkable women, and deepens our understanding of this dramatic period in history. How did an illiterate peasant girl gain access to the future king of France, earn his trust, and ultimately lead his forces into battle? Was it only the hand of God that moved Joan of Arc-or was it also Yolande of Aragon?
REVIEW:
It’s completely obvious Goldstone is a genius when it comes to telling tales of predominant historic figures, and this book is no exception. She captures the essence of Joan of Arc and Yolande of Aragon to a tee. The author’s work is flawless, and this well-written biography almost teaches us readers reminiscent to a textbook explaining who and why they are significant hundreds of years later. It’s tough enough to highlight one heroine, but the addition of a second in this book is just an extra sweet bonus of knowledge and talent that adds to history buffs’ must-read list. It’s paced perfectly so we don’t get confused with the overload of information, and the several illustrations throughout aid our creative thought and eases us through the enigmatic world which we have never explored previously. Many may not know the importance or the impact Joan of Arc has bestowed upon the world, but whether it was a curse or a blessing in disguise, her story is told beautifully and many will agree, unforgettable.
Disclaimer: The above review was written by a guest reviewer, is the opinion of that reviewer and not a paid review.
Interview & Giveaway with Grace Burrowes
Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome back Grace Burrowes to that blog today to chat about her newest release DARIUS.
Grace, can you please share with us a little about yourself
GB: In addition to writing romance novels, I’m also an attorney for foster children. My clients are the best part about what I do at the day job, but I think in any job where conflict resolution is a big part of what you do, you need mental recreation if you’re not to become emotionally exhausted. Reading and writing romance serves that function for me.
Have you always wanted to be an author?
GB: Before I could write cursive, I was keeping a journal in print. My first non-musician job was working on the campus newspaper at college, and after college, I wrote music reviews for The Washington Post. When I look back, I can see the dots that connected to form a lifelong love of writing, which I think is the same thing as wanting to be an author.
Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?
GB: Twenty-five-years ago… I was in bed, on my left side, waiting out the back end of a high risk pregnancy. In the hour a day I was permitted out of bed, I stole off to the bookstore. I found a copy of Judith Ivory’s Angel in a Red Dress, (Starlit Surrender, back then), and read it start to finish, three times in a row. The writing is superb, the characters daring and deft, the settings meticulously researched. I gobbled up everything I could get my hands on by her. I recall thinking, “If I ever write romance, I want it to be this good, this special.” Not sure I’ve hit that high water mark, but I’m having plenty of fun trying.
How did you get into writing in this specific genre? Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre?
GB: Sitting outside the lunch room in seventh grade, a friend offered to lend me a book, The Wolf and the Dove. I was gone and haven’t come back. A well-written romance will have the character arc of a tragedy, the happy ending of a comedy, the beautiful writing of literary fiction, the pacing of an excellent thriller, and will do it all times two. Maybe if I ever felt I’d mastered those challenges, I might take on another genre, but for now, romance is what I have inside me to write.
What are some of your writing rituals?
GB: I don’t know if this qualifies as a ritual, but I try to be reading a keeper (or potential keeper), a craft book, and a historical reference at all times. The craft book often inhabits the smallest room of the house, because some wisdom is best consumed in small portions. The historical reference goes in my shoulder bag, because again, I can pick it up and put down, regardless of where I am or when the phone rings. The keeper is on my nightstand, so I can always end my day in a good place.
Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?
GB: Darius is a bit of a departure for me, in that my hero, Darius Lindsey, starts out all but trading his intimate favors for coin. That’s not your typical Regency hero, says I to myself, but Darius has good reason for the compromises he’s made, and as I wrote his story, I found that his redemption was all the more moving for being so badly needed. His sense of honor was never lacking, but his self-respect was much in need of repair, and by the end of the book, he’s reclaimed it. Still, the premise—of gigolo with a heart of gold?—was a reach for me.
How did you come with the idea for this story?
GB: We’re told in writing workshops to torture our protagonists. When I met Darius in earlier books, (The Virtuoso, and later while I was writing Nicholas) I wondered what he was doing, looking so peaked and wan, out till all hours, and clearly not having much fun. So I asked myself, “What is the worst, most painful wound I can afflict him with, the hardest to recover from?” Any wound to a man’s honor is brutal. I tormented Darius further by making it an intimate wound.
And then—with Lady Vivian’s help—made it all better.
Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
GB: I’ve just completed a book about an English baron, trapped as a youth in France during the Peace of Amiens. As he comes of age, his only means of avoiding interment is to join the French Army, where he ends up—authors do these things to their characters—responsible for interrogating English officers captured out of uniform. We meet him when he’s back in England after the war, pardoned by the Regent, but now sporting the moniker, the “Traitor Baron.” Our hero is trying to rebuild his life when clearly, somebody would much rather he wouldn’t draw breath at all. Enter, his aunt’s pretty, practical companion….
Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.
GB: Lady Vivien has contrived to meet Darius at a ball, because she feels he’s entitled to know he’s going to be a father, and because she’s worried about him. The women threatening to reveal to polite society some of Darius’ more shameful exploits are circling in the garden, though Darius doesn’t yet know they’re lurking nearby….
What would you be if you were not an author?
GB: In addition to writing and representing children in foster care court, I’m also a mediator. It’s amazing—and very rewarding—to see how much benefit you can be to people just by paying attention to them, and letting them know you’re there to help them develop solutions to their problems.
What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
GB: Meredith Duran’s That Scandalous Summer, is on my nightstand. Carolyn Jewel just posted that she’s started the sequel to Lord Ruin, and I’m dying to read that.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
GB: Thanks so much for having me here!
*****
DARIUS
by GRACE BURROWES
IN STORES APRIL 2013
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Books-a-Million | IndieBound | Indigo/Chapters | Discover a New Love | Sourcebooks
A story that breaks all the rules…
Darius is a remarkable tale of desperation, devotion, and redemption from award-winning New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Grace Burrowes. Her gorgeous writing and lush Regency world will stay with you long after you turn the final page…
With his beloved sister tainted by scandal, his widowed brother shattered by grief, and his funds cut off, Darius Lindsey sees no option but to sell himself—body and soul. Until the day he encounters lovely, beguiling Lady Vivian Longstreet, whose tenderness and understanding wrap his soul in a grace he knows he’ll never deserve…
Praise for Darius:
“Burrowes brings to life a deeply moving romance that’s sure to be remembered and treasured.” —RT Book Reviews, 4 ½ Stars, Top Pick
“This rising author handles powerful romance and complicated family life with skill in romances with great appeal.” —Booklist
“Burrowes creates her usual intelligent characters, exciting chemistry, and flowing dialogue…” —Publishers Weekly
“Very compelling… Likable characters with enough angst to keep the story moving along.” —Night Owl Reviews, 4.5 stars, Reviewer Top Pick
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Grace Burrowes’ bestsellers include The Heir, The Soldier, Lady Maggie’s Secret Scandal, Lady Sophie’s Christmas Wish and Lady Eve’s Indiscretion. The Heir was a Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2010, The Soldier was a PW Best Spring Romance of 2011, Lady Sophie’s Christmas Wish won Best Historical Romance of the Year in 2011 from RT Reviewers’ Choice Awards, Lady Louisa’s Christmas Knight was a Library Journal Best Book of 2012, and The Bridegroom Wore Plaid was a PW Best Book of 2012. Her Regency romances have received extensive praise, including starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Booklist. Grace is branching out into novellas and Scotland-set Victorian romance with Sourcebooks. She is a practicing family law attorney and lives in rural Maryland. For more information, please visit www.graceburrowes.com.
Spotlight Feature of Her Cowboy’s Heart by Marissa Dobson
Sunshine Press ~ Kindle ~ Nook ~ Smashwords ~ All Romance Ebooks
Blurb:
A life threatening attack woke Jackie Wilder up. Tired of waiting, her lioness is determined to convince her mate to claim her.
Haunted by his past, Kevin Roberts doesn’t dare allow anyone close, not even the woman he knows is his mate. Years spent as a lab experiment left their scars on his body. But when a lioness hunts, his desire may be their undoing.
Can Jackie help him shed the shackles of his past? Or will his scars rend them apart?
Excerpt:
Jackie Wilder struggled to sit up and her head swam. Every fiber of her body screamed out in pain when she moved, but she was tired of being stuck in bed. Tired of staring at nothing, but the pale blue walls of her room at Half Moon Harbor Resort. Her twin sister, Jacey, pushed open the bedroom door and relief washed through Jackie. It wasn’t Kevin Roberts.
Jacey, Jay, and she had always been the closest of the Wilder siblings. While the rest of their sisters were off exploring the world, they had stayed in Wilderville to assert themselves as leaders of their family pride.
“Jacey, what happened with Kevin? He sits here by my side hour after hour, yet he won’t speak to me. When I ask him a question, I get nothing but a few words. Things were always so easy between us. The friendship we shared is gone, and I don’t understand why.” The words poured out the moment Jacey shut the door giving them at least the idea of privacy. In a house full of lion shifters privacy was rare.
“Jackie, you were brutally attacked. He’s coming to terms with the fact we almost lost you.” Jacey sat on the edge of the bed, ignoring the damp spot created by her wet pink bikini. “You should have seen him when we got the news. It hit him hard, he’s realizing he could have lost you before he had the opportunity to claim you as his mate. Give him time.”
Jacey still struggled with finding her mate at such an inopportune time. She wasn’t prepared to accept Blake until her abusive ex Gray was completely out of her life and the only way that would happen was with his death.
“Give him time? Time to what? Deny what’s between us? I can’t sit around waiting for him forever. We’re supposed to be—destined to be together and he needs to accept that.” The pain of his denial ran through her like ice water. Quickly she closed the dam, refusing to give him satisfaction of tears, yet her heart broke knowing her mate was in the other room denying her. What’s so wrong with me that he would deny me?
“What do you want him to do, claim you while you’re still recovering?” Jacey tried to laugh it off but when Jackie remained mute, her twin raised an eyebrow in question.
“Yes.” Ignoring the nausea swamping her when she moved, Jackie scooted up further in the bed. “After the attack, I didn’t know if I’d make it. I was so cold. He was all I could think about. I wanted him there with me, to feel his touch one last time. To feel his lips on mine. Nicholas kept telling me Kevin would be there soon.” Tears coated her throat. “But damn it, I’ve known for over a year he was my mate, and he had to have known longer. I shouldn’t have had to wait all this time and I sure the hell won’t have to wait any longer.”
Author Bio:
Born and raised in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, Marissa Dobson now resides about an hour from Washington, D.C. She is a lady who likes to keep busy, and is always busy doing something. With two different college degrees, she believes you are never done learning.
Being the first daughter to an avid reader, this gave her the advantage of learning to read at a young age. Since learning to read she has always had her nose in a book. It wasn’t until she was a teenager that she started writing down the stories she came up with.
Marissa is blessed with a wonderful supportive husband, Thomas. He is her other half and allows her to stay home and pursue her writing. He puts up with all her quirks and listens to her brainstorm in the middle of the night.
Her writing buddies Max (a cocker spaniel) and Dawne (a beagle mix) are always around to listen to me bounce ideas off them. They might not be able to answer, but they are helpful in their own ways.
She love to hear from readers so send her an email at marissa@marissadobson.com or visit her online at http://www.marissadobson.com.
Kimberly reviews Lush by Lauren Dane
TITLE: Lush
SERIES #: Delicious #3
CHARACTERS: Mary & Damien
AUTHOR: Lauren Dane
PUBLICATION DATE: 04/02/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Mary Whaley has her hands full running a successful catering company and overseeing her supper club. She has everything she ever wanted—or so she thought. When she meets ridiculously hot and very dirty rock star Damien Hurley at her friend’s engagement party, the attraction she feels is overpowering—and she isn’t about to deny herself.
Damien is used to a hard and fast life. He and two of his brothers started a band when they were fresh out of high school—then they hit the big time and stayed there. He’s also a legendary madman on the stage and in the bedroom. But when he meets Mary, something clicks, and the bad boy starts thinking he may have finally found something good.
What begins as a series of fleeting trysts soon gets much more complicated. Damien can’t figure out why Mary doesn’t want more from him. And before long, it’s Damien who wants more from Mary. But it turns out Mary is no stranger to celebrity news, and he’s got a very big job ahead of him: proving that he’s worth more than a one-night stand…
REVIEW:
First I have to say that I have not read the first two in the series so that made it hard in the beginning to follow who all the characters are. There are a bunch of people thrown in the beginning and it got very confusing. I hate to say it but I really don’t think this book can stand alone and needs to be read in the series.
I don’t know… I just couldn’t get into this book. I am not sure why. I don’t think the characters had much of a chemistry together. The friends had more chemistry than Damien and Mary. They are both too focused on what they do than what they want. There wasn’t enough time with them together as well. The sex scenes are good but not as “dirty” as I expected from the information I received on the book. I also had a hard time with the dialogue. It seemed so off from how a normal conversation would sound.
I can understand why someone who has read the rest of the series (and I think some other books before that too) would enjoy this book I just couldn’t get into it.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Kimberly reviews A Vampire’s Salvation by Virna DePaul
TITLE: A Vampire’s Salvation
SERIES #: Beyond Human Novellas #1
CHARACTERS: Frankie & Jacob
AUTHOR: Virna DePaul
PUBLICATION DATE: 04/22/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Jacob La Costa Rios is the head of the California governor’s security team; he’s also a vampire who wants the governor, a presidential hopeful, to support the peaceful integration of vampires into human society. Unfortunately, there are others who oppose Jake’s plan. Plus, Jake’s a little distracted by discovering his one true mate, the human female who can give him everything he’s always wanted: love, children, and continuing immortality. Francesca Marie Stewart is the governor’s “go-green” political consultant.
Although she’s been attracted to Jake from day one, her priority is her career and protecting her heart. But then Jake blatantly propositions her and Frankie, who hasn’t experienced sexual intimacy since she was seventeen-years-old, decides it’s time to take what she wants—within reason. No matter—once Jake makes love to Frankie, he knows reason will be the farthest thing from her mind. Then he just has to eliminate the person threatening her, reveal the fact he’s a vampire, and convince her that trusting him will bring both of them eternal happiness.
REVIEW:
This is a Vampire Erotica eNovella (say that 5 times fast). It is the beginning of the Beyond Human Novellas which means it really does not have an ending and I can not wait for the next one in the series. The characters have a connection immediately. And even though it is a short read of only about 70 pages the story is complete (ok not the ending but that is what the next story is for). The characters past are fully formed and the present is interesting.
If you enjoy vampire stories with a bit of erotica thrown in then this is the story to have on your ereader ready to read at a moments notice.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Kimberly reviews Enchantress by Rae Morgan
TITLE: Enchantress
AUTHOR: Rae Morgan
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/05/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Successful businessman Eric Thorsson Ward has worked hard to reach the stage in life where he could have anything he wants – – and he wants Gina Morelli. Problem is successful businessmen remind Gina of her father, a man who’d abandoned her mother, took her brother, and started a whole new family, one that didn’t include her.
When she finds her brother shot and the threatening phone calls start, Gina reluctantly accepts Eric’s offer of protection and help. After all, even if he breaks her heart, she’ll still be alive.
REVIEW:
3.5 Stars ~ I really enjoyed this story. Yes some parts of it got a little cheesy (“Petey”) but the story is complete and interesting. It is a short story only about 100 pages but it still feels whole. The characters are fully developed for a short story. The problem I had, while small was distracting, was the writing at some points made me wonder if the story was originally written as a shape-shifter story. There are a number of references to a wolf and the senses a wolf has “I could smell her danger across the room”, “like a wolf I mate for life”, etc type sentences and I kept waiting for the big reveal that never came. Mind you it would have made a great shape-shifting story.
If you are looking for a quick read with suspense and romance this would be a good story to pick up. *I believe this is a reprint*
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Interview & giveaway with Jessica E. Subject
Books-n-Kisses is pleased to have Jessica E Subject back on the blog today to chat about her newest release Made For Her.
Jessica, can you please share with us a little about yourself
Hi Kelly! Thanks for having me back on Books-n-Kisses! Hello everyone!
I’m Jessica Subject, and I write contemporary and science fiction romance, ranging from sweet to erotica. In my stories, you could meet clones, or a sexy alien or two. You may even be transported to another planet for a romantic rendezvous.
When I’m not reading, writing, or doing dreaded housework, I like to get out and walk. Fast. But I just may slow down if there is a waterfall nearby. I also like to do Just Dance 3 with my kids, but most of the time, they’re not willing to go up against their mom.
Have you always wanted to be an author?
No. I’ve always been writing in some form or another, but I never actually considered writing for wide-distribution publication until I was on maternity leave with my second child. I actually went to university for Business and wanted to get into marketing. Though I couldn’t stand the cut-throat mentality.
Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?
I’m glad you didn’t ask me to choose just one. LOL Before I started writing my own stories, I read books by Nora Roberts, James Patterson, and Janet Evanovich. Well, I’ve given them up for stories by Liz Crowe, Barbara Elsborg, Jennifer L. Armentrout, Kate Richards, LJ Garland, Lorna Suzuki, Kacey Hammell, and many others I know I’m guaranteed a great story. Plus, I’m always willing to try new authors if the blurb and the cover draw me in.
As for who has influenced my writing, I would have to say my four critique partners, who are also some of my fav authors, DL Jackson, Layna Pimentel, Zee Monodee and Rebecca Royce, plus the editors I’ve worked with, especially Kate Richards and Valerie Mann. They have all taught me so much.
How did you get into writing in this specific genre? Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre?
I’ve always enjoyed the romance in stories, rather than the other plots. I write the contemporary romances, because sometimes my ideas just don’t work with aliens, clones, or even out in space. And the sci-fi, well, that’s where my heart lies. Though I’m not a fan of the hard-core sci-fi that doesn’t consider the romantic or even social elements of society. That doesn’t appeal to me at all, and I won’t be writing stories like that. My sci-fi romances are another way for me to get across my point that we should accept everyone for who they are rather than who we want them to be. Plus, doesn’t everyone deserve a chance at love?
What are some of your writing rituals?
I don’t have a lot of rituals, because I try to fit in writing time whenever I can. The only thing I usually do is chew gum. I’m not chewing any right now, and my jaw is sore from clenching it. I tend to do that whenever I’m on the computer. Hence, why I chew gum.
Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?
Thanks for asking! Made For Her is a futuristic military erotic sci-fi romance. Yes, it covers a lot of romance subgenres. LOL It deals with a woman in the military who must train a clone that was created from her late husband’s DNA. Here’s the blurb:
After terrorists murder the love of her life, Colonel Mikayla Jones trains squadron after squadron of the clones he brought to life, to take to the skies. When she discovers a young clone of her husband in her newest class, her world spins out of control. How can she command the look-a-like when she can’t help but yearn for him to fill an ache in her heart?
Dare was created to be the best. As the first Daniel clone to leave Onatria labs, he needs to prove he is more than just a DNA copy. To do that, he must rely on the wife of the man who donated his genes. But when she refuses to train him, Dare faces discharge and returning to the labs. Can he convince Colonel Jones to finish his training and find a way into her bed? Or will long kept secrets unhinge the entire clone project?
How did you come with the idea for this story?
With this story, I decided to get away from aliens in my sci-fi and try something different. I’ve always asked myself the “what-if” about Human cloning as soon as I knew what cloning was. And since many sci-fi romances deal with the military, I decided to try that aspect as well. I had a LOT of help from Karlene Petitt, who is a pilot, DL Jackson, who served in the US military, and my editor, Rie Langdon, who also has military experience. They helped me to craft this story together, so that it worked and fit into the military romance subgenre.
Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
Sure! My current WIP is the third book in my sci-fi dystopian romance series, The Underground. The series started when I wrote the first book, Never Gonna Let You Go, loosely based on a story I wrote in my high school Science Fiction English course. But after the first story, I didn’t know where to go with the series. It took over a year for my muse to help me plot out the second book, Never Gonna Desert You, which is on submission. And right after I finished the second, I knew how the series had to end.
Each book in the series focuses on a different couple involved. The first story is MF with FF scenes, involving Erik, Calla, and Melina. The second book is FF, involving Melina and Brook. And the third book is MM, involving Tim and Will, and it will conclude the series.
What would you be if you were not an author?
I honestly have no idea. Before I started writing, I was working in retail as a store manager. I’d likely be doing the same thing.
What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
Oh my gosh! I have so many books on my Kindle from the above mentioned authors to read. Plus, I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in the Lux series by Jennifer L. Armentrout.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Yes. Thank you again for having me, Kelly! Before I go, I’d like to share an excerpt from Made For Her. Plus, I’m hosting a giveaway during the Made For Her tour. Details are below.
Amazon (Canada/US/UK) | Decadent Publishing | All Romance | Barnes&Noble | more
Excerpt:
Colonel Jones eyed each one of her new cadets, examining the neatness of their uniforms, while inspecting for signs of stress or over-anxiousness. She’d never seen the telltale muscle twitches or sweats in any previous clones, only in human-borns, but she had to look for them anyway.
The first generation of clones didn’t live long enough to become cadets. Their hearts gave out within a year after incubation. But the scientists at Onatria had plowed on, utilizing more of Daniel’s research, speeding up the aging process with hormones to create the perfect generation she saw before her.
She’d had female clones in previous squadrons, but the government filled the one in front of her with testosterone-driven masculinity. If she’d been younger, she’d have a hard time concentrating. But her days of crushes and fantasies were long over. She was devoted to serving her country and planet, and nothing else.
That didn’t stop her from going out on the town for a stress-relieving fuck from time to time. But these young men in front of her appeared so virile, sure to last longer than any of her previous sexual partners.
No. As junior officers, and more importantly, as clones, they were off limits.
Inspecting them gave her the opportunity to check out more than their fatigues and tics, but if they knew her thoughts, they’d walk all over her. She’d be done.
They were of varying nationalities, builds, and heights, all fit to serve the planet. None of the cadets revealed any indication he would put the lives of others in jeopardy. This will be an easy squadron, every one of them ready to fly in a matter of weeks.
She reached the last cadet and froze. Her stomach clenched. No, they couldn’t have!
She pivoted on her heel and rushed off the tarmac, leaving the squad without an instructor.
Giveaway!!
On April 30, 2013, Jessica Subject will be giving away a $10 All Romance gift certificate to one lucky commenter during the Made For Her tour.
Please leave your email address in your comment so that she can contact you if you win. Contest is international. Good luck!
Author Bio:
Jessica Subject is the author of contemporary and science fiction romance, ranging from sweet to erotica. In her stories, you could meet clones, or a sexy alien or two. You may even be transported to another planet for a romantic rendezvous.
When Jessica isn’t reading, writing, or doing dreaded housework, she likes to get out and walk. Fast. But she just may slow down if there is a waterfall nearby.
Jessica lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband and two energetic children. And she loves to hear from her readers. You can find her at jessicasubject.com and on twitter @jsubject.
Website/Blog | Newsletter | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon | Authorgraph