Interview & Giveaway with Mandy Harbin

Hi Mandy. Welcome to Books-n-Kisses. We are honored to have you on the blog to day

Can you please share with us a little about yourself

Sure! I’m an Arkansan with a teenage son. Yes, he is learning to drive, which means I have increased my wine budget. He and I live with two guys who are partners, one of which has been a best friend of mine for years. They are awesome and have been very supportive of my career. Of course, the BFF wants me to write hot M/M books…which I have also started to explore.

Learn more about Mandy here: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Yes and No. I have always loved writing, but I never thought it was a feasible career choice living in the Deep South. So, when I went to college, I studied Liberal Arts. I wanted to study writing creatively but also on a technical level to be applied to my day job as an IT analyst (I’d already earned a technical degree). It was how I could justify studying it on the collegiate level. Then I became a victim of corporate downsizing and decided to go back to college to work on my masters degree. I seriously, seriously considered focusing solely on getting my MFA in creative writing, but ultimately chose an MBA course because I still had a hard time wrapping my head around the possibility of turning my passion into a career. I eventually came to my senses and stopped that madness to focus more time on my writing, and I have never been happier.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

I talk to myself while I’m alone in the car. Seriously, I’ll mimic out scenes and then catch myself doing it, look around to see I if I got caught, and then tell myself to stop because people driving by will think I’m some kind of weirdo… only to start back up later. But I’ve come up with some great dialogue this way.

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

Surrounded by Secrets is the last official book in my Woods Family Series. It’s about the brother Jack who has been the asshole of the family. I saved him for last because I wanted people to fully grasp his hang-ups, and frankly, I knew I was going to have a blast pairing him with a woman who could go toe-to-toe with him. Because of the premise of the series—that no single women could be around them—I knew I’d have challenges introducing the heroines and still keeping each of the stories unique. But I took it a step further with Jack’s story. For me, it’s bringing the family story full circle by truly unlocking the myths of their heritage and gaining a better understanding of the fate of their deceased brother, Eric.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

I love shifter stories, but I hadn’t read one on mountain lions, so I’d been toying with the idea of writing a paranormal series with that animal (I’ve always had cats and love their mannerisms). However, not only had I never written anything paranormal before, but I’d never written anything erotic either. I came across an open submission call from a large publisher seeking short—as in 15,000 words max—stories in the paranormal genre. It was the push I needed to get my story out. However, when I finished the first draft of Josh’s story, it didn’t feel right. I put it away (deciding not to submit to the open call), but a few months later, it was still nagging at me. I decided then that I’d pull it back out and expand onto the story so that it felt whole to me, not limiting myself to any word count. I was so much happier with the newer version because it felt as if I’d finally done it justice. But I still wasn’t sure if publishers would agree. I decided I’d only send it to three publishers since I was working on other projects, and if I got any interest, then I’d pursue the series. I sent it to the three, got notification that it passed the initial phase of one and contract offers from the other two. I was floored.

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

Remember the m/m suggestion of my roommate? Um, yeah, I’m working on a contemporary m/m series. I’m also working on a BDSM story that isn’t really a sequel to my book Digital Possession but does involve a minor character mentioned in that book. Also, Darkest Sin, my full length contemporary erotic romance has gotten great reviews and was even featured in RT Book Reviews Magazine and prompted my local paper to interview me. I will be finishing book two in this series next.

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

Wow. Tough question. I love Laurann Dohner, but I met her. I was totally fan-girl stalkerish. We were both doing a book signing, but I kept leaving my table to go to hers. I haven’t met Sylvia Day or Megan Hart, but I have conventions booked this year where they’ve confirmed attendance. I will be embracing my fan-girl side then, too.

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

Write! And Read. You only get better at writing if you read books in your interested genre and actually put pen to paper. I release several books a year… this year, I believe I have seven scheduled for release…but I also read at least 100 books a year. You have to make time for both if you want to be a writer.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

I want to travel. I’d love to go to England—I am a direct decedent of British royalty, which means, I have the same great (times several) great-grand parents as the Queen. I’d love to visit the gravesites of previous kings and queens and other noble ancestors. And yes, my friends call me “princess” because they think they’re all comedians. LOL!

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

Laurann Dohner’s next New Species book!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I just want to remind y’all that if you haven’t started reading the Woods Family Series, my publisher has book one, SURROUNDED BY WOODS, for free right now on the major retailers. I’m not sure how long this will last, but it’s a great way to try out the series.

THE WOODS FAMILY Series

*****

SURROUNDED BY DEATH – Prequel

His family speaks of his death as a tragic example of why it’s too dangerous for the Woods men to be around available women.

Eric Woods is now dead, but was his last night as a living, breathing mountain lion shifter as horrible as his family has always believed?

Experience Eric’s last night with Simone–a woman whose need for carnal pleasures for exceeds all rational thought.

Reader advisory: This book contains graphic language and explicit sex. It is meant as a bonus read in the Woods family saga and should not be viewed as a typical romance.

Purchase Links: FREE at Amazon / B&N / ARe

*****

SURROUNDED BY WOODS – Book 1

When Mikaela Patterson must take on a client with specific requirements that no single women be allowed on his property, she keeps her broken engagement a secret. She doesn’t realize her client and his sons are mountain lion shifters whose instinct to mate with any available woman turns deadly.

Josh Woods is her client’s eldest son, and he is immediately drawn to Mikaela. Knowing his father would never allow an available woman on the property, Josh doesn’t understand his fascination with her. Josh and Mikaela fight their attraction because of their own secrets, but when the truth comes out about Mikaela’s true availability and Josh’s animal instincts, they must be prepared to face the consequences.

Reader advisory: This book contains graphic language and explicit sex.

Purchase Links: FREE at Amazon / B&N / ARe

*****

SURROUNDED BY PLEASURE – Book 2

Krista Owens is an attorney who works too much and plays too little. When her colleague, Mikaela, requests her assistance for a month on the Woods estate, hinting that her brothers-in-law are all hot with commitment phobias, Krista agrees to tell the guys she has a boyfriend, hoping to finally lose her virginity.

Toby Woods doesn’t want anything to do with Krista, but watching his brothers fight over her ignites his feral side. He wants her, and he’ll stop at nothing to have her.

He knows it’s temporary, but will he be able to let her go when it’s time?

Reader advisory: This book contains graphic language and explicit sex.

Purchase Links: Amazon / B&N / ARe

*****

SURROUNDED BY TEMPTATION- Book 3

When Krista needs Ariel’s biochemical expertise because her new boyfriend can turn into a mountain lion, Ariel thinks her sister has lost her mind. But the possibility of a major discovery like this is too much of a temptation to ignore. Create a drug to stop a shifter from forcing a mating? Only if she got to test his sexual limits herself.

Rob thinks Ariel is an angel in disguise, and he immediately knows she’s the one for him. But is he strong enough to resist his animal’s need to claim her once the temptation begins?

Warning: This book contains a shifter who must resist his feral need to mate and a biochemist who is hell-bent on testing his sexual limits. You’ll never look at science the same way again.

Purchase Links: Amazon / B&N / ARe

*****

SURROUNDED BY SECRETS-Book 4

Lillian Caldwell has eyes on the hottie with the body, Jack Woods, one of the men who bought her family land and now new boss. She has big plans for Jack, including the getting-him-horizontal variety, and she always gets what she wants.

Jack is the family hard ass who’s trying to make amends. His plans of digging into the family secret he discovered are thwarted when he’s forced to work with Lillian, his gorgeous, pain-in-the-ass neighbor.

But a night of passion will unlock the secrets surrounding them and change both their lives forever.

Warning: This book contains a spitfire woman who doesn’t take no for an answer and a strong alpha mountain lion shifter whose preverbal bark really is as a bad as his bite.

Purchase Links: Amazon / B&N / ARe

Giveaway time…..

a Rafflecopter giveaway

But WAIT….

There is more…..

GRAND PRIZE GIVEAWAY

Mandy is giving away a $100.00 Gift Card to either Amazon or B&N (winners choice) to celebrate the release of SURROUNDED BY SECRETS.

TWO runners up will receive an eBook of SURROUNDED BY SECRETS.

To Enter: Fill out the Rafflecopter widget below. The more tasks you complete, the more points you get.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

February 11, 2013February 9, 2013

Interview & Giveaway with Olivia Cunning

Books-n-Kisses is super excited to have Olivia Cunning on the blog today to talk about her new book Hot Ticket .

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

I don’t lead a very interesting life. I think that’s one reason why I write. I was born in the Midwest and my father joined the military when I was 2, so we moved all over the country and were stationed in Germany a couple of times. I have one son who is college, one cat who will not let you pick her up, and one dog that barks at everything including the wind. I have an advanced degree in Research Pathology. Until recently I was a college professor who taught Human Anatomy and Physiology and now I write full time. My hobbies are going to rock concerts, taking walks on the beach and playing video games. See? Much less interesting than fiction.

Learn more about Olivia here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Not always. My first choice of career was garbage man. Garbage woman? I wanted to ride on the back of the truck. Then I wanted to be a jet pilot, but found out you have to have great vision (this was before Lasik surgery), so that was out. Then I wanted to be a rock guitarist—stubby fingers, my father’s mockery and no talent destroyed that dream. At nineteen I decided I was going to write series romances for a living. Alas, that didn’t work out, so I went to school to be an elementary teacher. My professors pushed me into the science field, where I thought I would do research, but after obtaining the Master’s degree, went on to teach. I loved teaching for the most part. But I quit at the end of 2012 to be a full-time writer and so far, no complaints. I do miss my students, but not the grading! I heard somewhere that good teachers would teach for free, but you have to pay them to grade papers. I definitely identify with that!

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

I can’t write with my son in the room. But considering that he’s 20 and what types of books I write, I guess most people would feel a bit subconscious about writing sex scenes with their young adult kid present.

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

Hot Ticket is the latest release in my Sinners on Tour series. The books center around a rock band called Sinners. This one is about the bassist Jace Seymour who doesn’t understand love because of his childhood. His heroine, Aggie, who is probably the most patient woman on the planet, helps him overcome his past and recognize all the love in his life—from her and his band mates. Sinners is a family. A very dysfunctional, sex-crazed family, but a family. The guys really depend on each other.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

I usually start with a character and try to get to know them be putting them into situations. While I’m writing about the character, my story ideas come out of nowhere. So I’m not a writer who starts at the beginning and writes every well thought out scene from beginning to end. I go back and fill in the beginning of the story with details once I’m writing later scenes. The idea for Jace’s character was first spawned while listening to the song “Pain” by Three Days Grace. Pain without love. Those lyrics struck a chord as so many songs do. I wondered what kind of person would want pain? And why? What would get them to that point? And how would they learn to love? Thus, Jace Seymour was born.

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

I’m working on a serial series of novellas about a different rock band called Sole Regret. That series is unrelated to Sinners and occurs one night at a time. I wanted to try something a little different with that series. I’m also working on a spin-off series to Sinners about the band Exodus End. The rhythm guitarist of Sinners is Trey Mills and his brother, Dare, is in Exodus End, so you see bits of the band Exodus End in the Sinners series. You also see bits of Dare in the Sinners series. He’s a good guy. I’m looking forward to getting into his head and finding him a great heroine to love.

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

J.K. Rowling. I just love her writing. I’d go totally fangirl if I met her.

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

Don’t give up on your dream, but always seek to improve. The best way to improve is to write, write, write.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

My bucket list is a mile long. I checked off a couple things in January. I really want to go on a Safari. Maybe I’ll do that next. The biologist in me loves animals. Or skydiving. I’ve always wanted to hurtle myself out of a perfectly good airplane.

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

I really need to read J.R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood series. I bought the first six books as a boxed set and am looking forward to reading them. I’ve heard great things. Yes, I realize I’m late to the party.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just that I never thought I’d actually be where I am today as a writer. I dreamed it, but wasn’t confident that I’d succeed, so thanks to all of those folks who read my books and enjoy them. I am humbled everyday by your encouragement and generosity of spirit.

Amazon | B&N

Book #3 in reading order of events in book series, per author

There are things in bassist Jace Seymour’s past that he is unwilling to share with anyone. To cover his guilt and anguish, he seeks dominatrix Mistress V (Aggie) to temporarily placate his inner turmoil.

Aggie doesn’t have much use for men–besides the power rush she gets when they’re begging for mercy at her feet–but Jace isn’t like her usual clients. His cool defiance and unexpected dominance in the bedroom drives her to distraction and quickly steals her heart.

When circumstances threaten Jace’s position in Sinners, Aggie must help him regain his rightful place in the band while showing him that time and love can heal all wounds.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

February 11, 2013February 2, 2013

Kelly’s review of How Beauty Saved The Beast by Jax Garren

TITLE: How Beauty Saved The Beast – Tales of the Underlight #2
AUTHOR: Jax Garren
PUBLICATION DATE: 2.11.13
Characters : Wesley “Hauk” Haukon & Jolie Beniot
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Jolie Benoit left her old life behind to become an agent of the Underlight. Training under Sergeant Wesley Haukon, she’s honing her combat skills, all the while coping with the intense sexual attraction she feels for Hauk. She keeps their friendship casual, but when his high school sweetheart transfers into their division, Jolie finds herself grappling with jealousy.

The Underlight gave Hauk a purpose, but he can’t escape his past completely. The physical and emotional scars from the fire that killed seven fellow Army Rangers will mark him forever. Jolie sends his protective instincts into overdrive, but he’s convinced he’ll never be worthy of her love.

Hauk is determined to keep Jolie from harm. But when the Order of Ananke ambushes them with a new weapon that neutralizes Hauk, making him vulnerable, it’s Jolie who must tap into her hidden strengths to rescue him—or risk losing him forever.

REVIEW:
The second book in Jax Garren’s Tales of the Underlight Series brings us back together with Hauk & Jolie pretending that there is nothing more between them then friendship. But after a scorching hot kiss between them in the work out room the door to more is finally open. But who is going to take that first step in.Just when things look like they are finally going to go right for Hauk & Jolie in walks Hauk’s old high school flame. But the real question is who is this old girlfriend and what does she really want with Hauk.

Oh my goodness these two are killing me. I just wanted to grab them throw them into a room and lock the door. Hauk & Jolie are perfect for each other and I so can’t wait to see what Jax has in store for them in the next book in this series. This was another great story from Jax.

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.

February 10, 2013February 9, 2013

Kissin’ the Week of Feb 4th – Feb 9th Goodbye

2.4.13

Guest Blogger: Beth Williamson

Guest Blogger: Codi Gray

Kelly’s review of The Reunited by Shiloh Walker

2.5.13

Release Day Madness

Interview & Giveaway with Grace Burrowes

Kelly’s review of Finding Abigail by Carrie Ann Ryan

2.6.13

Guest Reviewer: Susan’s review of Poison Princess by Kresley Cole

Book Blitz: Erica Pike

Interview & giveaway with Kathryn Quick

Kelly ‘s review of Rush by Maya Banks

2.7.13

Thursday’s Thought

Chloe Neill’s House Rules Tour

Interview & Giveaway with Tracey Devlyn

Kelly’s review of Midnight Alias by Ella Kennedy

2.8.13

Book Blitz Tour: Kharisma Rhyane’s Knowing Thyne & Having Thyne

Book Blitz: Laura DeLuca’s Player

Kimberly’s review of Beach House No. 9 by Christie Ridgway

2.9.13

SINSational Saturday Series:

Chloe Neill’s Chicagoland Vampire Series

February 9, 2013February 5, 2013

Chicagoland Vampire Series by Chloe Neill

Some Girls Bite

Chicagoland Vampires #1

First in a brand new series about a Chicago graduate student’s introduction into a society of vampires.

Sure, the life of a graduate student wasn’t exactly glamorous, but it was Merit’s. She was doing fine until a rogue vampire attacked her. But he only got a sip before he was scared away by another bloodsucker-and this one decided the best way to save her life was to make her the walking undead.

Turns out her savior was the master vampire of Cadogan House. Now she’s traded sweating over her thesis for learning to fit in at a Hyde Park mansion full of vamps loyal to Ethan “Lord o’ the Manor” Sullivan. Of course, as a tall, green-eyed, four-hundred- year-old vampire, he has centuries’ worth of charm, but unfortunately he expects her gratitude- and servitude. But an inconvenient sunlight allergy and Ethan’s attitude are the least of her concerns. Someone’s still out to get her. Her initiation into Chicago’s nightlife may be the first skirmish in a war-and there will be blood

*****

Friday Night Bites

Chicagoland Vampires #2

The story of a young heiress’s initiation into the dark society of the Chicagoland Vampires continues:

Ten months after vampires revealed their existence to the mortals of Chicago, they’re enjoying a celebrity status usually reserved for the Hollywood elite. But should people learn about the Raves–mass feeding parties where vampires round up humans like cattle–the citizens will start sharpening their stakes.

So now it’s up to the new vampire Merit to reconnect with her upper class family and act as liaison between humans and bloodsuckers, and keep the more unsavory aspects of the vampire lifestyle out of the media. But someone doesn’t want peace between them–someone with an ancient grudge.

*****

Twice Bitten

Chicagoland Vampires #3

Shapeshifters from across the country are convening in the Windy City, and as a gesture of peace, Master Vampire Ethan Sullivan has offered their leader a very special bodyguard: Merit, Chicago’s newest vampire. Merit is supposed to protect the Alpha, Gabriel Keene-and to spy for the vamps while she’s at it. Oh, and luckily Ethan’s offering some steamy, one-on-one combat training sessions to help her prepare for the mission.

Unfortunately, someone is gunning for Gabriel, and Merit soon finds herself in the line of fire. She’ll need all the help she can get to track down the would-be assassin, but everywhere she turns, there are rising tensions between supernaturals-not least between her and a certain green-eyed, centuries-old master vampire.

*****

Hard Bitten

Chicagoland Vampires #4

Meet Merit, a “wonderfully compelling vampire heroine” (USA Today bestselling author Julie Kenner).

Chicago is beset by supernatural tensions, and Merit-vampire protector of a safe haven called Cadogan house-is worried that the humans will be reaching for their pitchforks any minute. It doesn’t help that yet another vampire rave is broken up by the mayor, and a new inhibition- reducing drug is circulating through the community.

It’s up to Merit to put her house in order-literally. And if that takes getting a little blood on her hands, so be it.

*****

Drink Deep

Chicagoland Vampires #5

“A strong-minded, sharp-witted heroine who will appeal to fans of Charlaine Harris’ Sookie Stackhouse series and Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake.” (Library Journal)

Clouds are brewing over Cadogan House, and Merit the vampire can’t tell if this is the darkness before the dawn, or the calm before the storm. With the city itself in turmoil over paranormals and the state threatening to pass a paranormal registration act, times have never been more precarious for the vampires. If only they could lay low for a bit…

Then magic rears its ugly head when Lake Michigan turns black. The mayor insists it’s nothing to worry about, but Merit knows a panic is coming. She’ll have to turn to friends old and new to find out who’s behind this, and stop them before it’s too late for both the vampires and humans.

*****

Biting Cold

Chicagoland Vampires #6

Turned into a vampire against her will, twenty-eight-year-old Merit found her way into the dark circle of Chicago’s vampire underground, where she learned there was more to supernaturals than met the eye—and more supernaturals than the public ever imagined.And not all the secrets she learned were for sharing—among humans or inhumans. Now Merit is on the hunt, charging across the stark American Midwest, tailing a rogue supernatural intent on stealing an ancient artifact that could unleash catastrophic evil on the world. But Merit is also the prey. An enemy of Chicagoland is hunting her, and he’ll stop at nothing to get the book for himself. No mercy allowed.

No rules apply. No lives spared. The race is on.

*****

House Rules

Chicagoland Vampires #7

In a city full of vampires, trouble never sleeps.

At the tender age of 27, Merit became a sword-wielding vampire. Since then, she’s become the protector of her House, watched Chicago nearly burn to the ground, and seen her Master fall and rise. Now she’ll see her mettle—and her metal —tested like never before.

It started with two . . . Two rogues vanishing without a trace. Someone is targeting Chicago’s vampires, and anyone could be next. With their house in peril, Merit and her Master, the centuries old Ethan Sullivan, must race to stop the disappearances. But as they untangle a web of secret alliances and ancient evils, they realize their foe is more familiar, and more powerful, than they could have ever imagined.

*****

Biting Bad

Chicagoland Vampires #8

Book 8 of the Chicagoland Vampires series by Chloe Neill

Welcome back to Chicago: Famous for sports, pizza, and vampires. At
the tender age of twenty-eight, Merit became a sword-wielding vampire.
Since then, she’s become the protector of her House, watched Chicago
nearly burn to the ground, seen her Master fall and rise, and saved her
best friend from self destruction. But this might be her toughest fight yet.

February 8, 2013February 2, 2013

Book Blitz Tour: Kharisma Rhyane’s Knowing Thyne & Having Thyne

Knowing Thyne

Buy Links: No Boundaries Press – Amazon – Barnes & Noble – ARe

It’s Thyne & Adison’s 5th wedding anniversary.

Adison has always known that Thyne had an interest in men. She could tell by the way he looked at them. Rather than be offended when he finally told her three years into their marriage, she found it arousing. Now, on their little getaway for their 5th anniversary, Adison wants to make things memorable for her husband. She wants to continue their great sex life and also wants to watch him with another man–hoping that maybe, in the end, he’ll let her join in with them.

Excerpt Knowing Thyne:

Adison smiled as she grabbed the keys from the counter and drug her wheeled suitcase behind her. She had started planning her sixth anniversary only several months after she and Thyne celebrated their fifth.

She’d booked the exact same hotel as last time. Why not? It held some great memories.

Smiling, she remembered the fun and excitement of the last time they were at the hotel. Would Thyne expect the same thing? They’re relationship had flourished since their getaway. And, to her surprise, Thyne hadn’t mentioned a desire to be with another man.

That had been her anniversary gift to Thyne. After five years of marriage, he’d never told her that he was bi. She had assumed it for a while and then suddenly, she had just been positive. It caused her to invite a beautiful gay man named Seth into their anniversary suite.

Even now she could feel herself getting wet remembering Seth and Thyne together.

Hurriedly, she deposited the suitcase into the trunk where Thyne had put his that morning. Always a workaholic, he wouldn’t take the Friday off to start the weekend away early. He had said that his work ethic was why they could take these getaways.

Smiling to herself, she headed back in. Wheels crunched on the driveway. She turned and watched Thyne pull up to the house. Maybe he was looking forward to the weekend as much as she.

****

Adison could tell Thyne was anxious from his chipped greeting and speedy shower.

Much as the previous year, they were silent on their drive to the hotel, simply holding hands. Check in was also went much the same and Adison was pleased to see Thyne’s reaction to the same suite.

“How did you manage the same room?”

“I booked it three months after we were here,” Adison replied with a smile.

When they entered the room, in yet another repeat of their first visit Thyne asked, “Want to go down to the beach before dinner?”

She smiled and shook her head.

“So then, tell me, Adison, what do you have planned for our weekend this time?” Thyne had an amused look on his face, as though knowing her reply would be to bypass the beach once again.

“Oh hell.” Adison tossed her hands in the air. “You know I wanted to wait a bit to get into this part. If you think for a minute I can top last year, you’re going to be very disappointed. You know, you’ve not mentioned wanting to be with another man either. Nor have your brought up Seth.”

Adison watched Thyne for some kind of reaction. No matter what she thought she might see, it wasn’t there. He simply sat waiting for her to continue speaking.

Reaching into her bag, she pulled out the strap on she had brought with her last year. They’d never used it.

“Remember this, Thyne? And how I asked if you’d let me use it on you?”

He gave a slight nod.

Having Thyne

Buy Links: No Boundaries Press – Amazon – Barnes & Noble – ARe

Another year has passed and Adison has planned an anniversary treat for Thyne that she hopes will surpass the last one. But in pushing her boundaries to outdo herself, will she push the limits of Thyne’s bounds?

Excerpt Having Thyne:

This was the weekend. Tonight she and Thyne would go away for their fifth wedding anniversary. Well, not really away as in exotic location, something had to be saved for their tenth anniversary, but to a beautiful resort hotel about an hour from home. She had them both packed and was ready to enjoy it. Would her surprise be too much?

After what seemed like forever, Thyne finally arrived. Adison had played this out in her head over and over. Now that the time was here, she was nervous. As he loaded their luggage into to the trunk she occupied her mind with different versions of how the weekend might play out. Would he enjoy her surprise?

Suddenly, this weekend gift looked like a huge risk.

Though they held hands all the way to the hotel, they rode in silence. Could her husband feel her panic? Or was it guilt? Was she doing the right thing?

Once in their suite, Adison relaxed. The view was breathtaking. The beach was stunning with its crystal clear blue water. The hot summer weather was perfect, a light breeze flowing into their room from the open balcony doors.

“So, what do you want to do first? Go down to the beach for a swim before dinner,” Thyne asked, snapping her from her enjoyment of the view.

“No, I don’t think so. Maybe in the morning, a day on the beach sounds nice.” Adison’s reply was deep with thought. She fidgeted within her suitcase simply moving items back and forth, even though there was nothing she needed. How would she start the evening?

“Alright then. So, what is it that you do want to do? Maybe we could go to dinner and have an early night?”

Thyne’s brow creased with his confusion. He had her number. That was certain. Normally she’d be dragging him to the beach to get the sand under her feet. She loved the beach; the sand, the sun, the water, time slowing down.

“Thyne, take off your clothes.”

About the Author:

Ten years ago, Kharisma traded in snow, ice and tornadoes for sun, heat, sand and mountains. She now lives in beautiful Arizona with her husband, 4 kids & 9 rescue dogs and 5 goats.

Now, in her eleventh year in Arizona, she is once again braving new terrain and has moved up into the White Mountains. This will be the first year that she will see freezing temperatures and snow.

Her love for nature and animals is well known and she gets to indulge it in her new home with wolves, coyotes, snakes, and various other creatures as her nearest neighbors. Living in the middle of nowhere is something she wouldn’t change for the world.

Dabbling in writing through Junior High and High School, Kharisma officially got her start writing LGBT, BDSM and erotica. Never one to slow down, she started writing several additional genres including crime, medical, historical and paranormal. Her latest adventure is a dark horror.

When you pick up one of her books, she wants you to walk away turned on and inspired! Come take a stroll into Kharisma’s worlds of ecstasy, love, adventure and fear.

Web – Blog – Facebook – Twitter @KharismaRhayne – Goodreads – Amazon

February 8, 2013February 2, 2013

Book Blitz: Laura DeLuca’s Player

*****

Player

Laura DeLuca

Amazon / Smashwords

Joshua Handover had it all. He was handsome, rich, athletic, and had always been popular with the ladies. Yet, until he gets paired up with his beautiful but shy lab partner, Rosa, he never allowed himself to fall in love. As the chemistry between them grows, Josh realizes that his player days have come to end. But it seems his change of heart has come too late. Not only is Rosa leery of his bad boy reputation, he has four vindictive ex-girlfriends who are on a rampage. At first he doesn’t take their threats seriously, but then his tires are slashed, someone tries to poison him, and one of the girls turns up dead. Josh doesn’t know who to trust, but one thing is certain. It definitely isn’t worth the price he’s paying to be a player.

Excerpt:

Someone else came over to offer Nadine their congratulations, so Josh said goodbye and went to his locker to get his backpack. He figured he would meet up with Andrea and Rosa in the parking lot. He fumbled with the combination before finally getting the door to swing open. Something glittered on the top shelf and caught his eye. He reached for it, and a small scrap of paper fluttered to the floor.

At first he wasn’t sure what he was holding. It was a pink plastic tiara with some big gaudy plastic jewels. It was the type of thing he had seen in dollar stores for little girls’ birthday parties. It was practically broken in half, and the edges were sharp. Josh pricked his finger on the jagged point, and a few drops of blood welled from the small wound. He put his finger in his mouth as he bent to pick up the paper that had fallen. When he read it, the broken crown suddenly made sense and he wondered how he could have been so naïve. He should have realized from the instant he saw it what it meant.

“Josh decided to play around

Now one of his girls is under the ground.

Another has a big bump on her head.

And by the end of the dance, the queen will be dead.”

About the Author:

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. Her current works include Destiny, Destiny Unveiled, Phantom, Morrigan and Player.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

February 7, 2013February 7, 2013

Thursday’s Thought…

February 7, 2013February 7, 2013

Chloe Neill’s “House Rules” Tour

Happy New Release to Chloe Neill.

House Rules is book 7 in the Chicagoland Vampire Series.

We are honored to be a part of Chloe’s House Rules tour…

Thank you Chloe 🙂

Chloe has stopped by to share one of her favorite quotes…

But first a little more about Chloe:

Chloe Neill is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Chicagoland Vampires and Dark Elite series.

She was born and raised in the South, but now makes her home in the Midwest–just close enough to Cadogan House and St. Sophia’s to keep an eye on things. When not transcribing Merit’s and Lily’s adventures, she bakes, works, and scours the Internet for good recipes and great graphic design. Chloe also maintains her sanity by spending time with her boys–her favorite landscape photographer/husband and their dogs, Baxter and Scout. (Both she and the photographer understand the dogs are in charge.)

Chloe is represented by Lucienne Diver of The Knight Agency. Chloe is a member of the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America.

Photo by Dana Damewood. (If you use this photo for promotional purposes, please credit Dana.)

About this site: This website was created using Thesis for WordPress. The background image is (slightly color-modded) Cranberry by Evan Eckard. The social media icons were developed by Noisette Academy.

Now… Chloe please share with us one of your favorite quotes from your Chicagoland Vampire Series.

*****

Let’s take a closer look at House Rules

*****

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, IndieBound.

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!

I have two prize packages to give to two lucky followers.

A huge thank you to Chloe for being so generous and putting together some awesome swag for us to share with out followers.

PRIZE #1

Prize #1 includeds

* One custom designed (for this tour) Chicagoland Vampire tote bag

* One custom designed (for this tour) Chicagoland Vampire pen (writing pen)

* One “i survied HARD BITTEN” pin

* Chicagoland Vampire Bookmarks

*****

PRIZE #2

Prize #2 includeds

* One custom designed (for this tour) Chicagoland Vampire tote bag

* One custom designed (for this tour) Chicagoland Vampire pen (writing pen)

* One “i survived HARD BITTEN” pin

* Chicagoland Vampire Bookmarks

*One signed copy of “Biting Cold” (damage on the back corner)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The fun doesn’t stop here.

Want more chances to win? You can also enter Chloe’s House Rules Grand Prize Giveaways, which will run January 30 through February 7 on Chloe’s web site.

What are the Grand Prize Giveaway prizes?

Prize One: The Paper Prize

A complete set of autographed Chicagoland Vampires novels
A $50 gift card from Amazon or Barnes & Noble (winner’s choice)
A set of personalized bookplates, courtesy of Felix Doolittle
A Chicagoland Vampires tote bag

Prize Two: The Tech Prize
A set of Chicagoland Vampires audiobook CDs (Books 1-6), courtesy of Tantor Audio
A $50 gift card from Amazon or Barnes & Noble (winner’s choice)
A Chicagoland Vampires tote bag

Both prize packages will include plenty of Chicagoland Vampires and Dark Elite swag, including bookmarks, stickers, pencils, or other goodies (as supplies last)

Check out the rest of the House Rules Blog Tour Schedule

January 28, 2013
Fangs, Wands & Fairy Dust
A Book Obsession

January 29, 2013
Reading and Writing Urban Fantasy & Paranormal Romance
Oh Paper Pages

January 30, 2013
YA Reads
Mystifying Paranormal Reviews

January 31, 2013
Saucy Wenches
Literati Literature Lovers

February 1, 2013
Readers Confession
Mostly YA Book Obsessed

February 2, 2013
Dark Faerie Tales (The Mating Game Event)
Fic Fare

February 4, 2013
Vampire Book Club (Character Love Letters)
Cocktails and Books
Paranormal Cravings

February 5, 2013 – Release Day!
The Autumn Review
Gizmo’s Reviews

February 6, 2013
A Great Read
The Book Twins

February 7, 2013
Books-N-Kisses
She Wolf Reads

February 8, 2013
A Thousand Lives
Forget About TV, Grab a Book

February 7, 2013February 2, 2013

Interview with Tracey Devlyn

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Tracey Devlyn to the blog today to chat about her newest book

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

I’m a small town girl who transplanted to the big city – or at least the suburbs!—several years ago. For the last eight years, I’ve been managing human resources for an environmental agency near Chicago. My adorable rescue Doberman keeps me youthful and my awesome husband keeps me grounded. J

Have you always wanted to be an author? Nope. The writing bug did not hit me until about six years ago. It never once occurred to me that I might have the chops to write a novel. Not long after I scrounged up the courage to put pen to paper (literally), I knew this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

Can you share with us your typical writing day. Is there anything you have to have while writing? My laptop and a quiet room is all I need to write. Every once in awhile I’ll light a candle, but I do that less and less these days. As for a typical writing day—I generally write for about three hours in the evenings and for 16-20 hours on the weekends. I have quite a few other things that vie for my time when I’m not at the day job, like email, marketing, publicity, website management, street team activities, social media, etc. I stay busy!

Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?

Because I have a strong suspense element in my stories, my plots tend to be a little more intricate than most historical romances. So, I’m constantly connecting the dots, both with the external suspense element and the romance. The most rewarding? Honestly, it’s all rewarding to me. I love the process of writing the books—even when it’s hard. I love interacting with readers. And I love the supportive nature of the romance community.

Can you please tell us about your latest book?

Checkmate, My Lord is the second installment in my—take a deep breath—historical romantic spy thriller Nexus series. That was a mouthful, wasn’t it? J Those of you who have read my debut, A Lady’s Revenge, will recognize Lord Somerton’s name. He was the heroine’s guardian in ALR and is now the hero in Checkmate. Somerton, aka Sebastian Danvers, is ruthless, dedicated to his country, attracted to his murdered agent’s widow, and is a magnet for a seven-year-old girl who likes to natter on about horses.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

Good question! Somewhere along the way it became obvious that book 2 in the series would be Somerton’s and it would have to take place in the country. Pairing him up with an organizing widow, who’s being forced to spy on him, a spymaster, seemed even more fitting.

Can you share with us your current work in progress?

Thanks for asking! Right now, I’m going through developmental edits for book 3, A Lady’s Secret Weapon. ALSW is Ethan deBeau’s story and will be available October 2013.

Who are some of your favorite authors?

I have so many! The authors that hooked me on romance forever are: Virginia Henley (The Raven and The Rose—first romance I ever read), Johanna Lindsay, Lisa Kleypas, Christina Dodd, Eloisa James, Mary Balogh, Christina Feehan, Kresley Cole, Adrienne Giordano—those are the ones I can think of off the top of my head.

Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style? There is one book that has affected my writing more than any other. Unfortunately, I have lost the name of the author and book. Believe me, I’ve tried to find it in my mound! But the historical author set the story in Italy. The hero and heroine were married and his Italian family refused to embrace his new English wife. The part that shocked me and has stayed with me so many years later was the brutal sexual assault against the heroine. Yes, very ugly, but the author somehow pulled it off. Now, I have no plans to go there, but what I took away from that story was – keep your readers guessing. Shock them, make them laugh, make them cry. Make them remember.

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

Chapter Six. In this scene, Sebastian enters his study to find Catherine waiting for him. The night before, he over-imbibed and sent her a note, asking her to join him in the morning to discuss a potential business arrangement. Unfortunately, he has absolutely no recollection of sending her the note. Needless to say, the unflappable Lord Somerton is feeling a little off-balance.

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

Let’s see. Books queued up on my Kindle right now are: Starters by Lissa Price, The Blood Gospel by James Rollins & Rebecca Cantrell, and The Heiresses #1 by Allison Rushby.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I love connecting with readers! Please stop by at any of these haunts and say hello!

TraceyDevlyn.com | Dangerous Darlings Street Team | Newsletter

Twitter.com/TraceyDevlyn | Facebook.com/AuthorTraceyDevlyn | LadyJanesSalonNaperville.com Goodreads.com/TraceyDevlyn | Discover a New Love

Thanks again for allowing me to hang out today on Books-n-Kisses!

Hugs,

Tracey

Available February 5, 2013

eBook Amazon | Apple | All Romance | Barnes and Noble | B-A-M Sourcebooks

A desperate mother falls in love with the spymaster she’s forced to betray.

THE STAKES ARE HIGH, THE PLAYERS IN POSITION…

Catherine Ashcroft leads a quiet life caring for her precocious seven-year-old daughter, until a visitor delivers a startling ultimatum. She will match wits with the enigmatic Earl of Somerton, and it’s not just her heart that’s in danger.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN…

Spymaster Sebastian Danvers, Earl of Somerton, is famous for his cunning. Few can outwit him and even few dare challenge him–until now. After returning to his country estate, his no-nonsense neighbor turns her seductive wiles on him–but why would a respectable widow like Catherine risk scandal for a few passionate nights in his bed?

REVIEWS:

“Devlyn’s seamless writing will entice readers and keep them eager for the next installment.” ~ Publishers Weekly, STARRED review

“Devlyn delivers an emotional, powerful read.” ~ RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars

“Devlyn’s edgy and sexy series is gaining momentum, and historical-romantic suspense fans, particularly those who enjoy Brenda Joyce, will delight in this.” ~ Booklist

“Love the characters, lots of mystery, murderers, spies and lots of romance!!!!!!!! CHECKMATE MY LORD is an edge of your seat exciting read!” ~ Fresh Fiction

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

February 7, 2013February 2, 2013

Kelly’s review of Midnight Alias by Elle Kennedy

TITLE: Midnight Alias – Killer Instinct #2
AUTHOR: Elle Kennedy
Characters: Luke Dubois & Olivia Taylor
PUBLICATION DATE:
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
She’s smart, seductive, and in way over her head.
He’s her only way out.

An undercover DEA agent has gone off the radar. Suspecting an internal mole, the government needs Luke Dubois and his elite team of operatives to recover their man, and the New Orleans native thinks he’s found his way inside the dark underbelly of Manhattan: Olivia Taylor, the girlfriend of a mob boss and the sexiest woman he’s ever laid eyes on. His new mission objective? Get past Olivia’s defenses and convince her to take a chance—on him.

All Olivia wanted was to finish law school and live a normal life, but that dream was shattered when one dangerous night put her deeply in a mobster’s debt. Now Luke and his team will help her escape—in exchange for intel on the missing agent. But Olivia doesn’t anticipate her intense attraction to the reckless Louisiana charmer or that she’ll be forced to risk everything—including her heart

REVIEW:
Under cover. Trying to find a missing DEA agent. Catch in a tangled web of lies and fear. Drugs, lies and guns. But through it all love will win. Or will it?

Olivia had never thought that her life would turn out the way that it has. But sometimes a girl has to do what a girl has to do. It is only a matter of time before she can make her escape. But just as Olivia is ready to make her more fate throws a wrench in her plans. Know Olivia finds herself helping out who she hopes are the good guys.

Luke could have never guessed the twists and turns his latest mission has taken him on. But I am sure that he is darn glad he did. All except maybe getting catch claiming out of that window and down the fire escape. What you want to know what I am talking about? You will just have to pick up a copy of Midnight Alias.

This was my first Elle Kennedy book and boy did I love this book. Luke is well in a word YUMMY!!!! I really did love this book. It kept my attention from page one. I am looking forward to more of the Killer Instinct series. There are so many pain in the butt characters that need to fall in love so badly. And Yes, I will be going back and reading book 1.

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.

February 6, 2013February 2, 2013

Guest Review: Susan reviews Poison Princess by Kresley Cole

TITLE: Poison Princess
SERIES: Arcana Chronicles #1
CHARACTERS: Jack & Evie
AUTHOR: Kresley Cole
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/02/12
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
She could save the world—or destroy it.
Sixteen year old Evangeline “Evie” Greene leads a charmed life, until she begins experiencing horrifying hallucinations. When an apocalyptic event decimates her Louisiana hometown, Evie realizes her hallucinations were actually visions of the future—and they’re still happening. Fighting for her life and desperate for answers, she must turn to her wrong-side-of-the-bayou classmate: Jack Deveaux.

But she can’t do either alone.
With his mile-long rap sheet, wicked grin, and bad attitude, Jack is like no boy Evie has ever known. Even though he once scorned her and everything she represented, he agrees to protect Evie on her quest. She knows she can’t totally depend on Jack. If he ever cast that wicked grin her way, could she possibly resist him?

Who can Evie trust?
As Jack and Evie race to find the source of her visions, they meet others who have gotten the same call. An ancient prophesy is being played out, and Evie is not the only one with special powers. A group of twenty-two teens has been chosen to reenact the ultimate battle between good and evil. But it’s not always clear who is on which side…

REVIEW:
Poison Princess is a Must Read!

Both my daughter and I are huge fans of Kresley Cole’s series….so a new venture from her grabbed my attention before it was even available…I read it the first day and was not disappointed! This story is so good, with well-developed characters and a great lead-in for another epic love relationship. It was rather refreshing to have a passionate love story that was age-appropriate yet kept this old lady’s interest! Not that I mind steamy stuff on occasion, but I like a good story that uses the love interest as an underlying strong element rather than the the focus of the entire story. The challenge Evie faces as she learns more about who she is and what she can do kept my attention to the end and I can’t wait for more!

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