Tuesday 29 October 2013

Hot Halloween Heroes Giveaway Hop

I have to admit my favorite type of romance is the paranormal kind. For me, there's nothing like a hero with a bit of mystery or hidden beast about him, especially when he battles to keep control of it, maintaining his humanity against all odds. It gives me shivers, especially during the hot and heavy scenes in an erotic tale. I also like men with vulnerabilities. No, not emotionally stifled men embittered beyond repair from their past experience, but men that have real issues and challenges they face on a daily basis. Something that plagues them but they've successfully learned to live, like bursting into flames if they go out in the sun. 

As you can probably tell, for me it's not the battle over good and evil that often appears in the paranormal novels I read that enthralls me, it's the inner struggle of each character. The hero battling control of his inner or alternate self, the struggle for acceptance in a human world so different from his own. The heroine, usually mortal or at least a different species of immortal, coming to terms with falling in love with a creature so different from herself. How do they fit together, can this relationship work, will we be accepted by our peers. For me paranormal romance is a reflection of real world issues in an unreal setting, a world of myth and legend. 

Paranormal heroes are the ultimate alpha males, which speak directly into my little submissive heart and soul. Dominance and submission swirl through most pages of the novels I read. Paranormal romances, even if not expressly advocating a relationship often thought of as belonging only within the BDSM lifestyle, reflect the D/s situation well. Claiming or owning a mate, the alpha control and protection of the women he loves, and that word I so love to read in most paranormal books...mine. I swear I tremble just thinking about it. 

Because I love the genre so much it took me quite a while to dip my toe into that pool in a writing sense. I finally did it and at the beginning of October my first paranormal erotic romance appeared in an anthology called Edible Delights,  Vol 3. My novella, A Tasty Little Treat, appears with three other stories by Aussie authors. I've included the book blurb and an excerpt from the story to tempt your taste buds. I hope you like it. 



A Tasty Little Treat by Jan Graham

Faye Redwood won’t be anyone’s tasty little treat, especially not sexy vampire, Owen Ashmore’s. It seems however, Owen is intent on convincing her otherwise.
Faye Redwood is different to other humans. She sees supernatural beings. When it comes to surviving as a Seer, Faye always follows her grandmother’s advice, whatever you do, don’t let them feed on you. As a result, Faye has managed to avoid being any creatures’ dinner for twenty-seven years now. A late night walk through the park and a chance encounter with a sexy vampire is about to change that situation for ever.
After being a creature of the night for the last two and a half centuries Owen Ashmore has become pragmatic about the human race. They are a source of food and a side order of carnal delight if the mood takes him. However, Owens opinion is about to change. Faye Redwood is unlike any human he’s ever met. He isn’t content to simply make her his tasty little treat, Owen is about to help her become so much more.  
Excerpt
Faye breathed in deeply and exhaled slowly. After twenty-six years of avoiding the paranormal, keeping her distance, why tonight did her inner voice fail? She picked up her mobile phone and stared at the screen, just rummaging through her bag to find nothing would be too suspicious. With no sixth sense to guide her, only one course of action sprang to mind. She replaced the phone in her bag, then continued on her way. She moved slowly, a few sluggish steps at a time, reluctant to leave the area. The creature certainly posed a threat to her, but would he harm other innocent passersby. Self-preservation finally won the battle with her conscience, so she picked up her pace.
“I know you can see me, little fairy.” Faye spun around, expecting to see the man standing behind her. Instead, she saw nothing. Turning her head, she gazed up at the creature on the roof. He remained there, sitting forward now, his body more alert than before, his eyes fixated on her. “And now I know you can hear me as well.”
Damn it.
Faye spun back around in the direction she needed to head, out of the park, toward home, to safety. The adrenaline of being discovered enabled her body to click into gear, legs finally propelling her forward at a rapid rate. Not that running away did any good. Breath forcefully expelled from her lungs as she hit the solid mass in front of her.
Damn, he moves fast.
Rebounding from the impact, she would have fallen to the ground had his arms not encased her, holding her steady.
“Fuck.” She only meant to curse silently, but the word spilled from her lips along with a groan of frustration as he pulled her against his hard body. She lifted her gaze to his, confirming her suspicions. Black eyes, with a thin red line circling the iris, white pupils staring at her, a structurally perfect face covered in pale pristine skin, his smile exposing a hint of elongated canine. Faye stood wrapped in the arms of a vampire, probably a hungry one at that.
“What a delightful greeting, little fairy, but I think it’s far too early in our relationship to discuss sex, don’t you?” His smile appeared wicked, in a sexy kind of way.
“I think it’s too early to call this a relationship, now let me go.” Faye tried not to wiggle against him, she simply pushed her hands firmly on his chest, hoping he’d take the hint and release her. Her heart rate continued to accelerate as her fear increased, she could feel the pulse in her neck fluttering. Not a good state to be in when facing a hungry vampire, no matter how sexy he looked.
The red rim around his eyes indicated he needed to feed so the last thing she wanted to do was send him into a bloodlust. She stilled, realizing her efforts to push him away were futile. He wasn’t letting go anytime soon especially considering the rim around his irises had noticeably thickened in the short time he’d held her, as did something at his groin.
“I like the feel of you against me, my little fairy, just as I like your smell.” A seductive smile displayed his lengthening canines. “The scent of your arousal while you struggle to free yourself makes me appreciate you all the more.”
“I am not aroused by you. I’m also not anybody’s little fairy, especially yours,” Faye snapped indignantly, then swiftly changed her tone in case her resistance inflamed the situation. “Now let me go…please.
Her grandmother had taught her many things, one of them being—you attract more bees with honey than vinegar. Her final words were therefore sweetly polite, with a hint of vulnerability.
Faye rested quietly in his arms, trying to calm the race of her pulse, deepen the shallow gasps of her breathing and still the strange heat thrilling through her body, which shouldn’t be occurring under these circumstances. Vampires were cold to the touch so being held this close should make her shiver, not flush with heat. Unless, no he couldn’t be correct. Faye adjusted her position slightly, failing to stifle a groan as her erect nipples rasped against the fabric of her bra. His assertion regarding her state rang true, she was aroused.
“As you wish, but only because you asked so politely.” He released her from his embrace, stepping back with a slight bow. “Allow me to introduce myself. I am Owen Ashmore.”
“Faye.” She stated nervously in reply, intentionally omitting her last name, Redwood.
As Owen stood once again to full height, a wicked grin creased his lips. Their gazes remained locked through the entire encounter and even though he released her from a physical hold, Faye remained entranced by his intent stare. A chill raced over her body, the night breeze cooling her flesh.
How could she be aroused? Yes, he was stunning to look at, but he wasn’t human. Faye ensured she never became attracted to anything other than a real man. After all, humans were only a source of sustenance to vampires, nothing more. Although some vampires did cohabitate with humans, using them as a meal replacement program until the mortal died, either from old age or being drained in an accidental feeding frenzy. Faye didn’t fancy experiencing either fate.
Blog Hop Giveaway 
For my giveaway you can win a copy of Edible Delights Vol 3 (ebook version in PDF only) simply by leaving a comment and your email at the end of this post. 
Entrants must be over the age of 18 yrs, this giveaway is international, the winner will be selected using via random.org. 
While your hear don't forget to check out the other participants blogs via the linkylist below and see what other great prizes are up for offer 

This hop was organised by Felicity Heaton and Indie Romance Books, thanks for setting up this wonderful event.

Hot Halloween Heroes Giveaway Hop

Monday 28 October 2013

New Release Sneaky Peek - SIMPLE MAN by Lydia Michaels

Months after Shane Martin’s sister vanishes, life crashes down and he finds himself the guardian of a nephew he never knew existed. Blissfully ignorant, Shane trades in his musician status, full of late nights and fast women, for midnight feedings and lullabies. But when Kate McAlister, his prissy, stuck up caseworker, arrives unexpectedly, he realizes he could lose everything.
Kate isn’t impressed by Shane’s messy bachelor pad, rocker image, or sexy tattoos. As a matter of fact she finds it all very sophomoric. The sooner she’s off the case the better. Everything from his long hair to his sarcastic attitude threatens her professionalism. But when he lowers his guard and asks for help, she discovers a side to this tattooed musician she can’t resist. Behind this simple man is an unsung hero.

Book Trailer:


Simple Man is told strictly from the male hero’s POV and takes readers on a comical and heartwarming journey.

EXCERPT

When Duce left, Shane sifted through the bag. There were tiny diapers, wipes, some sort of yoga mat thing, a bunch of creams. He laughed when he saw something called Butt Paste. That was self-explanatory.
There was something resembling a miniature turkey baster. He found clothes, itty-bitty socks, a knit cap, a few rattles, two containers of formula, some bottles, and a small booklet with doctor’s visits listed in it. He recognized the writing as his sister’s and a strange, sad nostalgia settled over him.
Was she here watching him now? “He’s beautiful, Noel,” he whispered. “I’m gonna do this. Don’t worry. I’ll figure it out and I’ll take good care of him for you. You’ll see.”
By the time Duce returned Shane was reading the bottle of formula. “What’s that?” his friend asked as he plopped down the paper takeout bag of food.
“Formula. I didn’t find any food. Do you think I should wake him to eat?”
“Uh, isn’t there some rule about never waking a sleeping baby?”
Shane shrugged. “Maybe I should make up a bottle so it’s ready when he does wake. He’s been sleeping for two hours. He’s gotta be hungry.”
Shane wished he had Internet. He wasn’t really computer savvy, but people were always talking about finding shit online. Duce was staring at him with a peculiar look. “What?”
“I think you should give him back.”
“Give him back? There is no back. I’m it.”
“He’s just all perfect and small. What if you fuck him up?”
“Hey, don’t curse in front of him. And I’m not going to mess him up. I just need some practice. I’ll figure it out.”
“Maybe you should ask someone who has kids what to do.”
Shane reached for an egg roll. “I don’t know anyone with kids. I have to take a class and I have a crap load of reading material.”
“When do you take the class? Maybe that was something you should have done beforehand.”
“It starts tomorrow night. I’ll be fine.”
They ate and zoned out to some reality TV. Baby Shane was so quiet they’d almost forgotten about him. Then Duce’s face began to twitch. “Dude, what’s that smell?”
Shane sniffed and choked. Whatever it was, it was powerful enough to make his eyes water. “Aw man, did you fart?”
“Wasn’t me.”
In unison, they slowly turned to the baby who still slept soundly. He leaned over and sniffed, almost gagging as he jerked back. “Holy crap! How could something so pintsize smell that bad?”
Duce covered his mouth and went to the window, quickly opening it to let some air in. The little guy made a tiny nook-nook sound and his miniature fist curled up by his chin in a dainty stretch. He looked like the fighting Irish.
“It’s moving,” Duce whispered as though the baby were a bomb about to detonate. And suddenly an explosion happened.
Baby Shane’s face screwed up tight, turning an unnatural shade of red. His mouth opened wide, showing nothing but pink gums, and an unholy squawk roared out of him.
They jumped and stared as the baby screamed, his little chest working in quick breaths as he drew in only enough air to force out another shrill, squawking cry.
“Do something!” Duce demanded.
Shane panicked. He reached for the book and began to thumb through, not sure what he was looking for.
“Don’t fucking read! Pick it up!” Duce snapped.
Shane tossed the book on the couch and quickly kneeled in front of the angry baby. He wailed and Shane began to freak. Was he in pain? Ugh, the smell coming off of him was burning the back of his throat. “Sweet Jesus, he stinks!”
He quickly removed the soft blanket. Shane was strapped down with some sort of five-point harness a person needed a degree in engineering to figure out. He pressed buttons and undid latches, shaking with the urgent need to make him stop screaming.
Sweat seeped through the baby’s tiny cotton jumper. The closer he got the worse the stench became.
“I thought babies were supposed to smell good?” Duce said, fanning the front door to let some air in.
“So did I. I can’t figure out how to unbuckle him!”
“Hit the red buttons on the side. You gotta get the handle out of the way.”
Sweat trickled into his eyes as he tried to dismantle the carrier. Finally he had the harness undone. “Now what?”
“Pick it up!”
“He stinks!”
Duce scowled. “So, my ear drums are about to burst. You gotta get in there. Tough it out. Take one for the team!”
Shane carefully picked up the screaming baby. He held him in front of his chest like a potted plant. He was so incredibly light. “What now?”
“I don’t know. You’re the one who’s supposed to be Mr. Mom. Comfort it. Pat its back. Sing or something!”
Shane stood and awkwardly turned, swaying slightly. He didn’t want to shake him and break him. He sang the first song that came to his mind, wincing at the lyrics about loaded guns.
Duce’s mouth fell open. “Teen Spirit? Really? How about Rock-a-bye Baby?”
“I don’t know Rock-a-bye Baby. Nirvana’s the first thing that popped into my head.”
“It’s not really appropriate, Shane,” Duce said coolly as if he were suddenly more qualified than him with babies.
“You wanna try?”
“No, I’m set.”
He continued to sing Teen Spirit and eventually Baby Shane quieted. Blue eyes stared back at him and slowly the world began to settle.
Shane was sweating and Duce looked petrified.
“Hi,” Shane said. The baby blinked. “I’m your Uncle Shane.”
“I don’t think he can talk.”
“No shit, Sherlock.”

Buy Links:



About the Author

Award winning author, Lydia Michaels, writes all forms of hot romance. She presses the bounds of love and surprises readers just when they assume they have her stories figured out. From Amish vampyres, to wild Irishmen, to broken heroes, and heroines no man can match, Lydia takes readers on an emotional journey of the heart, mind, and soul with every story she pens. Her books are intellectual, erotic, haunting, always centered on love. Lydia Michaels loves to here from readers! She can be found of Facebook or contacted by email at Lydia@LydiaMichaels.org


Other Titles by Lydia Michaels
FALLING IN
BREAKING OUT
COMING HOME
WHITE CHOCOLATE
ALL 4 YOU
TO CATCH A WOLFE
CHASING FEATHERS
BREAKING PERFECT
SIMPLE MAN
CALLED TO ORDER
CALLING FOR A MIRACLE
CALL HER MINE
SACRED WATERS
SKIN

Thursday 24 October 2013

New Release Sneaky Peek - Romancing the Stars Anthology - featuring Kacey Hammell


Romancing the Stars Anthology
Genres: New Adult, Contemporary Erotic Romance, Multicultural/Interracial
144 Pages
ASIN: B00FE2IACY

Romancing the Stars
~Fantasies that will make you see stars
Sexy stars abound in this collection of five, naughty stories that take you from red carpet premieres to time off from the screen and the auditioning, filming, and parties in between. Featuring young love rekindled, old lovers reunited, multicultural and interracial red carpet hook ups with the potential for more, and a BDSM couple with unexpected proclivities, there's something to curl everyone's toes and leave fans craving more.

A Sunday Kind of Love by Kacey Hammell
For Sunday Reardon, once an A-list actress, leaving the spotlight, hectic schedules and tabloid gossips behind for the quiet tranquility of her hometown was the best decision she ever made. She’s surrounded by her family, her gardens and has everything she needs. Except the love of her life, a past co-star who offered so many promises years ago, only to break them all.

When she’s nominated for an Academy Award, Sunday’s world shifts into confusion and what-might-have-beens as she comes face to face with the one man who broke her heart…and still sets her body on fire.

Read more about each Romancing the Stars story from these talented authors:


Excerpt:  A Sunday Kind of Love  © Kacey Hammell, 2013

“God, you feel so amazing in my arms. I wish you could come with me.”
Eyes closed, she nodded. “I can’t. I’m sorry.” Opening her eyes, she gazed at him. “Once the editing is finished, I need to get away from all this. I can’t deal with it any longer. And you know my dad’s having hip surgery. I need to help my mom.”
Shifting his stance, he slid his hands over the globes of her ass, urging her closer. “I know, babe. It’s okay. I won’t be gone long.”
She dug her fingers into the hair at the nape of his neck. “Nine months seems likes forever. You won’t forget me will you?”
A moan erupted from his throat as he dipped his head and latched his mouth onto hers. She savored him in her arms, revelling in his tongue dancing with hers. Passion, yearning, hunger, it was all there in his kiss.
Flexing his hips, Josh shifted his shaft to fit in the V between her legs. She gasped, her head falling back. Josh kissed his way down her neck, nibbling, biting, and driving the temperature a million times higher. She wanted to succumb to him now, to finally make love to him, but they couldn’t risk being caught.
He hauled her tighter, holding her so close she could barely breathe. But Sunday didn’t care. All she would ever need was this man in her arms. Feeling him against her, his body fevered against hers—nothing else mattered.
Josh lifted his head, his forest green eyes bore into hers. She could drown in his loving and hungry gaze. He knew her better than anyone else. While filming, they’d enjoyed so many secreted-away moments, revealing hopes and dreams and shared childhood stories imparting laughter. He was everything she’d ever need. And she couldn’t wait to tell the world.
But they couldn’t. Not yet.
“I know my leaving, since filming of my next movie is starting sooner, throws a kink in what we’d planned, but I promise, babe, I’ll be back as fast as I can. I’d rather be with you, starting our journey toward what I think will be a great future together. If I had any other choice—”
Understanding about commitments and responsibility, she covered his lips with her hand. “I know. It’s okay. We have time. We do. I’ll be waiting for you.”
He sighed. “I love you more than anything else.” He caressed her face. “I’ve waited so long for you already, it’ll be hell, but I know it will be worth it. Especially when we’re far away from prying eyes.”
She smiled, her heart booming with happiness. “And I love you.”
His cell phone vibrated. He yanked it from his pocket and groaned. “Damn, I have to go. They’re looking for me. Our flight leaves in forty-five.” His lips captured hers.
She poured all the love, hope, and belief of their relationship into the kiss. He had to come back. She couldn’t live without him now.
“I miss you already,” Josh whispered when he stepped back. His gaze travelled over her face as if memorizing every facet. Then he leaned down for his duffel bag. Straightening, he said, “I love you, Sunni.”
Tears in her eyes, she watched him walk toward the door. “I love you.”
He stared at her from across the room. Sunday wanted to rush over, wrap her arms around him and beg him not to go. But she couldn’t do that. She loved how dedicated and honest he was. There was no way she’d ever ask him to break his word.
With a last long, deep breath, he turned the door handle then exited the trailer. Feeling alone already, she sat in the vanity chair and gazed into the mirror. The love of her life had just walked out the door for war-torn Afghanistan. She worried for his safety but knew his people and the movie company would keep him safe while filming. All she could do was hold the love she had for him in her heart, and wait.

Buy Links:
Amazon US / Canada / UK

About the Author:

Avid Reader. Romance Author. Redhead…
Canadian-born author, Kacey Hammell is definitely a book-a-holic, who began reading romances at a young age and became easily addicted.  These days, as a multi-published erotic romance author, she enjoys adding a lot of heat, sass and emotion to the Contemporary Romances she writes.

A mom of three, Kacey has made certain each of her children know the value of the written word and the adventures they could escape on by becoming book-a-holics in their own right. She lives her own happily ever after with her perfect hero in Ontario, Canada, and is a true romantic at heart.

Connect with Kacey…


Tuesday 22 October 2013

New Release Sneaky Peek - Taking Flight by Tabitha Rayne

Tabitha Rayne is visiting my blog today to give us a sneak peek at her new novel. Welcome, Tabitha, and thanks for dropping by ☺. 


Thank you so much for having me at your place!

I’m here to highlight my new erotic novel, Taking Flight – it’s book 2 in The Meeting Point trilogy – but don’t worry if you haven’t read book one yet (A Clockwork Butterfly) because it doesn’t matter which order you read the first two.

Hope this whets your appetite for a raunchy dystopian adventure ;)

Tiny snippet
“If we part ways,” he started but Deborah pressed a finger to his lips, she didn’t want to hear it, speaking it might make it true. He pushed her hand from his face and held it at his chest, his woozy gaze fixed on hers. “Deborah, if we part ways, I’ll find you. I’ll find you at the meeting point. Do everything you can to come. We are more than the physical.”

Blurb
“Find me at the meeting point. We are more than the physical.”

Four generations from now, toxins are ravaging the land and the future of mankind is in peril. The surviving men are being rounded up and taken to holding facilities. Research scientist, Dr Deborah Regan is hoping to stabilise the decreasing male population before her lover, Marcus becomes one of those taken away.


When the authorities come looking for Marcus, Deborah abandons her research to go on the run with her lover. They flee to the forests where they stumble across a couple who are intent on finding an ultimate sexual union where at the point of climax their spirits break free from their bodies and unite. Plunged into a life of lust and survival, Deborah soon realises she can easily slip into this trancelike state and she and Marcus set out to create a transcendent bond of their own. Can they achieve the ultimate unity before fate separates them for good?

An erotic dystopian fantasy following a young couple trying to elude capture and separation.

The prequel to A Clockwork Butterfly.

In a dying world – is love the only means of true survival?


Excerpt – Marcus and Deborah have just finished making love
Marcus flopped on top of her and she struggled to breathe with the weight of him on her chest. He shifted his body a little to allow her to take in air but held her fast with her fingers still jammed to her sex and him still inside her.
‘I want you to remember this moment. Remember this time of us being utterly as one.’ That look had returned, and panic rose in Deborah’s chest.
‘Silly talk …,’ she said dismissively and feigned a giggle, but his intense stare never wavered and she had to look away.
He was right. They’d got away with it for too long. He was sure to be found soon and taken to the farms. She thought of the day they’d made the decision to hide him here, in their home. He’d quit his job, saying he was going back to look after his parents south of the border. That was before the pleasure farms were common knowledge; where men were taken and used as playthings for the increasingly powerful Archmatria government. Deborah had heard rumours of their existence and they’d acted on them immediately, playing out an acrimonious split for the benefit of neighbours and colleagues, but he’d never left. He’d simply stayed indoors and hid.
 ‘Why don’t we start an uprising?’ Marcus had said, only half joking, before he’d gone into hiding. But they’d both known it would have been a futile waste of their remaining time together.
They’d decided the only way was to keep working on a cure. Or at least discovering a reason for the sudden proliferation of the toxins.
Deborah prised her way out from underneath Marcus and rolled onto her side. Their mingled fluids trickled from her onto the sheets and she reached down between her legs and gently cupped her hands over her sex, trying to keep it all inside. If she could keep it all in, maybe he would be able to stay for ever. The excitement from the discovery at the lab ebbed away, leaving a soft melancholy in its wake.
***
Harsh banging at the front door woke Deborah and Marcus into full alert. Panicking, Deborah frantically clutched at the detritus on her bedside table, searching for a clock.
‘Don’t bother.’ Marcus reached over and laid a calming hand on hers. ‘It’s still dark. They’ve come for me...’

Buy Links for Taking Flight Available in ebook and paperback


Buy links for A Clockwork Butterfly Available in ebook and paperback


About the Author

Tabitha Rayne has been told she is quirky, lovely and kinky – not necessarily in that order or by the same person. She writes erotic romance and as long as there’s a love scene – she’ll explore any genre.

Her short stories are included in anthologies from Xcite, Oysters & Chocolate, Cleis, Ravenous Romance, Mischief, and House of Erotica. She has novels with Beachwalk Press and Xcite Books.

Amazon Author Page UK  Amazon Author Page US - provides an up to date book list   Goodreads 



Thanks again and happy reading x x x


Sunday 20 October 2013

Exciting and New

I thought it might be time to give you all an update on what's exciting and new in my life. It's been a while since I've posted anything personal about where I'm up to with my work so here goes.

The exciting news is easy, Switching Mercedes, the fourth book in my Wylde Shore series has been contracted to Siren Publishing and will be released in ebook in January next year, with the paperback version coming out a few months later. 

What a way to start 2014 (insert happy dance here).

As you know Zane and Mercedes have been dancing around there feelings for each other  for a while now so they needed a book to sort it all out, with a few surprises along the way. I'll be doing some pre-release teasers starting next month, which I hope you'll enjoy.

I'm hoping to follow up that release fairly quickly with the fourth and final book in the series, Tempting Marcus. The research for that one is now complete and it's time to get words down on the page. Chapter one is nearly finished so there's only about twenty five or so left to go...lol. 

That leads me to the new, yes a new series, to follow where the Wylde Shore series finishes. For those who've read the books, you've only been given a tiny introduction to Marcus Delaney (via a cameo appearance in Playing Jax) however, he features a little more in Switching Mercedes and of course his will be the last book in that Series. 


So what does he have to do with the new series I hear you ask. Well, Marcus runs a team of devilishly gorgeous mercenaries...can you guess where this is leading. Yep, the Mercenary Heat Series. No it isn't just an excuse for me to perv at pictures of hot male bodies looking for inspiration,  it's a series screaming to be told. I'm discovering all Marcus's operatives have stories to tell, and they've decided they need their own books. Of course, I keep telling them to shove off until I've finished Marcus's book but they are demanding men, just the sort I love. ☺ So, new plots abound and there's constant lobbying for pole position (no pun intended) in the who-goes-first stakes. 

Ah, if only real men were vying for my attention so desperately. 


Friday 18 October 2013

New Release Sneaky Peek - Mean Girls by Lucy Felthouse

Mean Girls by Lucy Felthouse


Adele Blackthorne is a big girl, a curvy chick. She knows it, and she’s been picked on all her life because of it. But she’s gotten to the stage where she doesn’t care. She may be Rubenesque, but she’s healthy, too. Much healthier than the mean girls at the leisure center that point and stare and say spiteful things about her. Adele rises above it all, and simply enjoys her secretive glances at the center’s hunky lifeguard, Oliver.

As the bullying of Adele becomes worse, Oliver finds it increasingly difficult not to intervene. He doesn’t want to get into trouble with work, but equally he can’t stand to see Adele treated in such a horrible way. Especially since he doesn’t agree that she’s fat and unattractive. He thinks she’s a seriously sexy woman, and would like to get to know her better. Much better.


Excerpt:

As usual, Adele Blackthorne felt the weight of gazes on her as she walked from the changing room to the steps to get into the swimming pool. She was used to it by now, and had learned not to react, to just carry on as though she hadn’t noticed people staring and not-so-subtly pointing at her.
With a polite nod to Oliver, the lifeguard, as she passed him, Adele was grateful for his much more favorable reaction. If he thought she resembled a beached whale, he hid it much better than everyone else did. The warmth in his eyes as he nodded back even looked genuine. But she had no illusions, he probably slagged her off the moment he got into the staffroom, or home, talking about the fat woman who went swimming three times a week without fail. But for now, she’d pretend he didn’t. Pretend he thought she was sexy, and wanted to get lost in her abundant curves. God knows she’d like him to.
It was true, she was a big girl and she was most definitely aware of it. Ever since she’d gotten to the age where her excess weight could no longer be called puppy fat, she’d tried to do something about it. Every diet under the sun, ridiculous amounts of exercise… nothing worked. Adele had grown so depressed in her teens that she’d become bulimic. Naturally, she’d lost some weight that way, but she’d also made herself so ill that she’d had to be hospitalized. It had terrified the life out of her, and ever since, she’d resolved that she’d much rather be healthy than skinny.
Which was why she visited her local leisure center three times a week. She used the gym and sauna, and went swimming. And every single time she went, she’d catch someone gawping at her. But because of the years she’d spent—especially at school—being called all the names under the sun, she’d developed an incredibly thick skin. She was happy and healthy—so healthy in fact that she could probably beat all of those skinny bitches at a swimming race. Of course she never offered, never called anyone out on their rudeness and ignorance, but it made her feel better to know that she was fitter and much more polite than them.
Slipping into the fast lane, she settled her goggles carefully into position—she hated getting water in her eyes—then lifted her legs to rest the bottoms of her feet against the end of the pool. Looking at the clock on the wall that counted seconds, she waited until the hand reached the top, then pushed off from the side and launched herself into the lane. It was quiet, so she had this section of the pool to herself. Her arms cut through the water, her legs flapped wildly and she did ten laps without losing any speed. Emerging from the water, she checked the clock again and was pleased to note she’d beaten her previous time.
She was just about to start another ten laps, when she heard voices from the other side of the pool. Voices that clearly forgot how well they carried on water. It was as though they were right next to her.
“God, I’m surprised all the water doesn’t jump out of the pool when she gets in. And the way she swims—she’ll cause a tidal wave one of these days.”
The spiteful words were followed by a trio of sniggers, and Adele gritted her teeth. Part of her wished that she could create a bloody tidal wave, so it would sweep those bitches under water and drown them. The other part of her tsked at the thought. Ideas like that made her just as bad as them, just as unpleasant, just as cowardly.
Because they were cowardly—the way they spoke about her behind her back proved that. If they ever passed her somewhere in the leisure center or its car park, they never said anything, not one word. They’d just scurry away as fast as they could, then titter when they thought she was out of earshot. She hoped that just one time, someone would say something to her face, so she could retaliate, speak up for herself. There was no way she’d start anything—she didn’t want to add confrontational to the list of faults that the mean girls had obviously compiled about her.
Sucking in a deep breath, Adele launched into another ten laps, allowing the chilly water and the exertion of powering through it to burn away her irritation. Because that’s all it was—irritation. She wasn’t angry. Anger was too powerful an emotion, and one that was totally wasted on those ignorant women. She almost felt sorry for them, actually. If they had nothing better to do than to stare at her and slag her off all the time, then they clearly had very dull lives.
The thought cheered her considerably and when she completed her twentieth lap, she lay her forearms on the edge of the pool and hoiked herself up. Her back was pressed against the side, and from here she had a perfect view of the rest of the pool. Tugging her goggles down so they hung around her neck, she had a damn good look at everyone else. The small children and their guardians in the kids’ pool right at the other end of the enormous hall, the old people who swum so slowly as they chatted that she was surprised they stayed afloat, the relentless movement of the man in the medium-speed lane and, of course, the mean girls who were in the same sort of position she was, but at the side of the pool rather than the end. The side which faced the lifeguard station.
Adele narrowed her eyes and watched them—the two waif-like blondes and a brunette—as they chatted and giggled, and it seemed for a change, not about her. They’d clearly changed the subject since their previous spouting of vitriol. Their focus was very firmly on Oliver as he sat on his lofty perch, surveying the pools before him, ready to jump in should anyone get into trouble. She often toyed with the idea of faking a problem, just to get him into the pool and his strong arms around her. However, she knew that although he’d undoubtedly do his duty and help her, he’d never believe such a strong swimmer would need his assistance. Then he’d lose all respect for her, and probably stop hiding his disdain for her so effectively. And the polite nods and smiles she got from him were the only thing—aside from the center’s top-notch facilities—that made the place bearable. She was sure that if the three witches—a nickname she’d secretly come up with for the women—had their way, there would be a sign on the main doors to the building saying ‘No Fat People Allowed.’

About the Author:

Lucy Felthouse is a very busy woman! She writes erotica and erotic romance in a variety of subgenres and pairings, and has over seventy publications to her name, with many more in the pipeline. These include Best Bondage Erotica 2012, 2013 and 2014 and Best Women's Erotica 2013. Another string to her bow is editing, and she has edited and co-edited a number of anthologies. She owns EroticaFor All, and is book editor for Cliterati. Find out more at http://www.lucyfelthouse.co.uk. Join her on Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to her newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/gMQb9


Monday 14 October 2013

Author Hot Seat Welcomes - Kay Jaybee

Today I'd like to welcome Kay Jaybee to the Author Hot Seat. Kay is currently in the middle of a blog tour to promote her new book, The Retreat. Information about the book can be found at the end of the interview along with buy links. The Retreat is book two in the very popular Perfect Submissive Trilogy and in the next day or so I'll be including a highlight from each book and review in relation to each. Before that happens though, lets meet Kay and see what she has to say in response to a few tricky questions.

About your writing:

How many books have you written during your career so far and which is your favorite?

So far I have written 18 solo books, including 6 novels (such as The Perfect Submissive, Making Him Wait, and The Voyeur), 4 novellas (inc. Digging Deep and Not Her Type: Erotic Adventures With A Delivery), 7 anthologies (inc. The Best of Kay Jaybee, Equipment, and Yes Ma’am), and the stand alone short story, Punished.
It’s really difficult to choose a favourite from all these, as each one is quite different from the next, but at the moment my latest release, The Retreat, is very close to my heart. This was a book I didn’t think I’d ever write, for it is the sequel to my novel The Perfect Submissive- which, to my amazement, was so popular that my publishers asked me to turn it into a trilogy!!

Have any of your books received negative reviews and how did you handle the criticism?

I have been fortunate enough not to have many poor reviews (so far!!)- but I did have one for my erotic romance, A Sticky Situation, that really upset me. It wasn’t a criticism of the book, but a personal attack on me. The reader left a review on Amazon- they really hated that I’d used English words and not American ones. However, I’m English, the book was set in England, and all the characters within the story were English. If the story had been set in the US, then it would have been a fair comment, however abrupt- but it wasn’t, and it really got under my skin. I handled it by drinking more coffee and eating chocolate!!

Do you believe in writer’s block and if so, how do you overcome it?

I do- it’s a nightmare. For me writer’s block is more an overload of ideas that just won’t move from the brain to the pen, rather than a total absence of ideas. I deal with it by walking it off- a long walk usually puts the brain cells back in gear.


What is the one genre you would never write and why?


Teen fiction- I was no good at being a teenager myself- I’ve never been into popular bands, or fashion, or makeup- frankly I’d be hopeless at it!! I just haven’t got the skills to think on the correct mindset.

Have you ever written a book that you’ve regretted publishing and why?

Not so far thank goodness!

If a reader said they wanted to write a book, what advice would you give them? 

Go for it!! But do it because you love to write, because something in you burns to produce a good story. Don’t do it if you think it’s an easy way to make a living- I promise, it is the most fun, but it’s very hard work and for the majority of writers there is little or no financial return.

About you:

Tell us what a typical day in your life is like?


I’m very much a creature of routine, and every weekday is pretty much the same.
I’m up at 7am, and at my computer by 7.30 putting out the days blogs, and PR for both my web sites (www.kayjaybee.me.uk and www.jennykane.co.uk)
Once my children have left for school, I scoop up my pad and pen (I largely write long hand), and head towards my local coffee shop, where I write from 8.45 until 11.30.
Then its home again, where I work via the Internet as an administrator for a Distance Learning Company from 12 until 1.30pm. Then I’m on the move again- back to a cafe in town to write from 1.45 until 3.15.
Life pauses for an hour then, so that I can do the return school run- before going back to my admin job from 4.30 until 6pm.
During the evenings I then type up, edit or produce new blogs for the following few days.
I really am that regimented!!!

What sort of things put you in a bad mood?


Lack of consideration of the feeling of other’s feelings, and when people assumed because I wear hearing aids I’m stupid.


Do you have a bucket list and what’s one thing you still want to do that you haven’t done?

Up until this summer I had a bucket list. The last thing I wanted to do on my list was to see Pompeii in Italy, and in August I did just that!! It was every bit as incredible as I thought it would be!!
Admittedly my bucket list was only short- but I didn’t want to have a list I had no hope of finishing! Now I’ve done everything on it, I guess I’ll have to write another one!

What makes you laugh?
Being with my friends, being happy- I’m a big laugher and smiler. I like clever comedy- MASH, Only Fools and Horses, Blackadder, QI- I can’t stand anything that get’s its laughs from humiliating or belittling other people.

What is the most embarrassing thing you’ve ever done?

Where shall I start?? I’m always dropping myself in it! Most of my embarrassing moments come from misunderstanding people. As I don’t hear very well, I rely on lip reading and gestures a great deal whenever I’m in crowded noisy places- so you can imagine how many times I’ve got things wrong.
I won’t go into details- as I promised I wouldn’t- but once I jumped on this poor guys foot really hard because I thought he’d asked me to. What was I thinking!!!??? Why would he have done that? I wasn’t drunk- no excuses- just got it wrong- again!! Whoops.

Do you like to read and what are you reading at the moment?

I love to read, and wish I had more time to enjoy other peoples work. I’m currently indulging in reading the brilliant Death Is Now My Neighbour by Colin Dexter. I just adore his Inspector Morse novel. The TV series was fantastic- but the books are even better.

If you couldn’t write anymore, what would you do instead?

I’d be doing historical research or working as an archaeologist. I trained in both fields when I was at university, and have a degree in archaeology and a PhD in Medieval Criminology- there is very little I don’t know about Robin Hood!!!

Fun Stuff:

If you could go out with one famous person who would it be and why?

Stephen Fry- his mind fascinates me.

Do you have a habit that drives your partner/friends/family nuts and what is it?

I like to sing to myself- I can’t sing- totally tone deaf- drives everyone bonkers.

In your opinion, what makes a person attractive?

Kindness combined a happy smile and nice eyes

What is the strangest food you’ve ever eaten?

Snake- I was on dig in Africa- it was snake or starve. It was very chewy!!

Would you rather have a classic 1969 convertible Mustang or have the use of a beach side condo any time you want?

The car every time.

And finally:

Would you rather survive an apocalyptic event (yes, even a zombie apocalypse) or die instantly without knowing what happened to your family and friends?

I’d pick the apocalyptic event- at least then I could try and save my family and friends, even if there was no hope.

Many thanks for inviting me here today Jan!

Kay xx

The Retreat by Kay Jaybee

Carrying on 6 months after Miss Jess Sanders has adapted to her new life as a working submissive at the Fables Hotel in Oxfordshire, The Retreat takes her on a new and challenges adventure…

Just as Jess is beginning to relax into her new life as a submissive at The Fables Hotel, her employer Mrs Peters announces that she is loaning both Jess, and her dominatrix Miss Sarah, to one of their most demanding clients; Mr David Proctor.
Whisked away by the mysterious Kane to The Retreat, hidden in a remote part of Scotland, Jess and Miss Sarah find themselves teaching another submissive to meet Proctor’s exacting rules.
As Jess comes to terms with the techniques of The Retreat Mistress, and the strictly overpowering dominatrix Lady Tia, she discovers that Proctor’s motives may not be all they seem.
Just who or what is Fairtasia? And why does Jess feel like she’s walked into a warped fairy tale?
In order to get back to The Fables, Jess is going to have to be more than just a perfect submissive...  

If you’d like to buy The Retreat, it is available from Amazon –
Amazon UK   or   Amazon US 

If you’d like to find out more about Kay’s work you can find details at www.kayjaybe.me.uk

You can follow Kay on Twitter- kay_jaybee
Kay also writes romance as Jenny Kane- www.jennykane.co.uk