Friday Fun!! The talented LYNDA BAILEY!!

The Rougher Side of Romance

Huge thanks to my gal-pal, Jenn, for hosting me today and for previewing my upcoming release, On the Corner of Heartache and Hopeful—KIRA.

So what do you think the rougher side of romance means? If you answered BDSM, you’d be right.

BDSM. That’s bondage (and discipline), dominance (and submission), sadism and masochism. (Got your attention, didn’t I? <G>)

I believe it’s safe to assume that the recent rise in the popularity of this sub-genre of romance can be directly attributed to the 50 Shades of Gray phenomenon. (I, myself, have never read the books.) Please understand, though, that BDSM stories have been around for-e-ver. Much longer than the Shades series. In fact, years ago I read a submission for a national contest that had serious BDSM elements. At the time I was shocked, and more than a bit intrigued. <wink> If you’re a fan of Shades, I would strongly encourage you to check out a few BDSM authors that I have read. Delilah Devlin and Qwillia Rain.

As a writer of erotic romance, it seemed a natural transition for me to broaden my romantic horizons to include at least some aspects of BDSM into my stories. I started with MIC, the first novella in my Heartache and Hopeful series. (Available on Amazon. com. http://amzn.com/B009RE0JKG) Nothing too hot and heavy happened—other than the sex, of course! But I did have a scene where Scott fulfills Mic’s fantasy of being tied up while making love. In KIRA, I delved a bit deeper and gave my heroine a spanking fetish. I plan to go deeper still (no pun intended—really!) in my next novella, GRACE.

If I’ve learned just one thing in my research of BDSM, it’s that you cannot make any assumptions about this lifestyle or the people who live it. These folks are just as committed to their partners, love just as deeply, hurt just as badly as anyone else. Because I’m a non-participant in the lifestyle, I wanted to make damn sure my characters’ goals and motivations were believable. The last thing I wanted was insult those who live the BDSM life. Hopefully I came at least kinda close to accomplishing that objective.   

So what do you think about BDSM? Does the idea titillate or repulse you? Share your thoughts for the chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card.

Also stop by my blog to read the first chapter of On the Corner of Heartache and Hopeful—KIRA. www.lyndabailey.net   

Thanks again to my BFF, Jenn, for having me here today!

BLURB:

Kira Grant, daughter of a multi-mega millionaire, leaves her over-protective father—and her sizeable heritance—for the simple life in Tatum, NE. She’s also leaving behind her sordid urges. Or so she thought…

Hunter Rice has only one goal: clear his name of doping charges and climb back into the ring where he belongs. And if he has to “convince” some wealthy mogul’s daughter she should move back home in order to reach that goal, so be it.

Lives, like streets, can run parallel or they can cross. Sometimes those crossroads lead to heartache or they lead to hope.

EXCERPT: (Please note! This is NOT a PG13 selection. Mature audience only.)

Hunter leaned forward until he was an inch from her face. “And just what is going to happen between us?”

In answer, Kira unbelted her robe. It dropped to the floor. So did his jaw.

She did indeed have on fishnet stockings that were attached to a black garter belt. She also wore a black corset, ribbed with a shiny, purple fabric. Her breasts strained against the purple lace edging the top of the corset with each of her breathes. By the wisp of material barely concealing her mound, he doubted she wore a thong. Had to be a g-string. Though Hunter had seen Kira buck naked, this getup was damn near sexier than her being in her—altogether.

He said nothing for a long time, not that he could talk. His tongue was glued to the roof of his mouth and his mind was equally stuck. He just feasted on her appearance. Over and over and over again. Thoughts, explicitly carnal thoughts and lots of them, filled his head. And his dick.

Finally, his gaze meandered back to hers. Uncertainty etched her features. He almost regretted ogling her. Almost.

Hunter swallowed twice then found his voice. “Okay. You’ve got my attention.” In more ways than one as his erection pressed against his zipper. “Mind telling me what the hell is going on?”

“This is going on.” She walked to the bed and flung the blanket away from a corner.

Stepping closer to see what she’d revealed, Hunter’s gut reeled and his stiff cock hardened even further. There was a ping pong paddle and a wooden spoon, both covered with what looked to be felt cloth. They reminded him of the BDSM toys found at the back of sleazy men’s magazines. He rifled his gaze to hers. “You are not spanking me with those things.”

She picked up the spoon and whacked it against her palm. The sound reverberated at the base of his spine. “By staying, you agreed to do whatever I want, remember?” Whack. “But relax.” Whack. Whack. “These aren’t for you. They’re for me.”

Friday Fun: Debut author JENNIE MARTS!!

Please help me welcome my friend, debut author, JENNIE MARTS! Jennie is here today with her hilarious novel -- the first in a series -- ANOTHER SATURDAY NIGHT AND I AIN'T GOT NO BODY :) 

Jennie is offering 1 Free eBook to a lucky commentator so be sure to leave your email addy. This is a book you do not want to miss. Unless you hate laughing or enjoying a good read..... then you won't want it. LOL

Welcome, Jennie, and congrats on all your success so far with this novel!

 *********

Hi, my name is Jennie Marts and I am excited to share a little bit with you about my recently released romantic comedy, Another Saturday Night and I Ain’t Got No Body. My story features an ordinary school teacher named Sunny Vale whose well-meaning friends decide to help her find her Mr. Right.

BLURB:

Sunny considers herself a dog-loving, romance-reading, homebody. But her life goes from dull to deadly when her book club fires her from her own love life and sets her up on six blind dates- one of whom might be with a murderer. More trouble arrives in the dead of night, in the form of Jake Landon, a mysterious stranger, who breaks into her neighbor’s house and possibly her heart. But Jake is packing more than a loaded gun in his well-fitting Levi’s. He brings an arsenal of secrets and plenty of heat to Sunny’s ho-hum summer.

Jake Landon finds himself caught up in the capers of the sexy blonde in the house next door. But he has his own agenda which doesn’t involve playing hero to a curvy second-grade teacher and babysitting her panty-puking puppy. He's got other problems like fiery explosions, a missing person...and a parade of jerks Sunny insists on dating.

Could Sunny’s Mr. Right be right under her nose? Even though Jake is gorgeous, likes her dog, and has abs she can crack an egg on, can she really go out with him if he’s just murdered her next door neighbor?

**** 

Today, I am sharing with you a little inside scoop not available in the book. Let's take a peek into the small town of Pleasant Valley, CO, where Janice Tuttlebaum, local reporter has just cornered Jake in the coffee shop. The whole town is talking about Walter's disappearance and this handsome stranger who has moved into Walter's home. Nobody's nosier than Janice, except maybe Edna, Sunny's 80-year-old neighbor, friend and fellow book club member. Edna has been suspicious of Jake from the start, ever since she saw him sneaking around the night of the -- but I'm giving too much away.

I think Janice is trying to interview Jake now. She certainly has her chair pulled close enough to his to smell his aftershave or sneak a bite of his danish. Let's listen in.....

“This is Janice Tuttlebaum from the Pleasant Valley Times,” she says into a small handheld recorder. She also has a steno pad on the table and is scribbling notes whiles she talks. “I am here today interviewing Jake Landon, the witness who reported our local townsmen, Walter Mead, missing. Jake, what do you know about Mr. Mead's disappearance?”

Jake sighs and folds his newspaper in half. “Not much. I expected him to be here when I arrived in town. It's been several weeks and we really have no idea what happened to him.” He takes a sip of his coffee, then turns the questions to Janice. “How well do you know Walter? What can you tell me about him?”

“Well, he was just the sweetest old man. He fixed my front gate last summer and wouldn't let me pay him a thing. He said his only payment was to have me bake him one of my cherry pies. My pies are prize winning at the county fair every summer. I mean, er.....I will be conducting this interview, Mr. Landon.” Flustered by the attention of this handsome rogue, Janice pats her chest and tries to take back control of the interview. “Exactly what is your relationship with Walter, er...Mr. Mead?”

Jake gives her a mischievous grin. “I'd rather talk about this cherry pie of yours....”

A bell tinkles as the front door opens, and in walks Edna, fanning herself from the summer heat. "Whoo-ee, it's hotter than two rats -- What are you doing here, Mr. Froofroo Coffee? Do you think you have enough whipped cream on that drink?”

Another sigh escapes Jake. “I ran into Ms. Tuttlebaum here while I was getting my coffee, and she asked to interview me for the local paper.”

“Why are you sitting so close together?” Edna asks, as she squeezes a chair in between them. Fluffing her hair, she turns to Janice. “Now, let me tell you, I have been neighbors with Walter for almost twenty years, and I am telling you, I suspect foul play. You work for the paper, what are you doing to find Walter?”

“Well, we...uh...we certainly would cooperate or try to help....wait a minute....doesn't anyone understand I am the reporter here. I ask the questions.”

“Geez, touchy.” Edna turns to Jake. “What did you do to make her mad?”

“Nothing! I don’t even know her. I was just sitting here drinking my coffee, trying to read the paper...”

“Why is she all grouchy then?” Edna asks in a not-so-subtle whisper.

Janice huffs. “I am most certainly not grouchy. Now if you will excuse us, I was trying to conduct an interview, Ms......?”

“Allen. That's with two L's.” Edna looks pointedly at her steno pad, and gives her a conspiratorial wink. “In case you want to quote me.”

The bell tinkles again and Sunny marches in, eyes scanning the store for her neighbor. “Edna, what is taking so long? I've been in the car for 10 minutes...... Oh, hi, Jake. What are you doing here?”

“Evidently NOT drinking coffee, OR reading the paper. I think I'll just take my coffee to go. Bye, Sunny.” Jake nods his goodbye at the women. “See you around. Edna. Nice to meet you, Janice.”

Janice and Sunny watch him walk out the door, both obviously appreciating the view.

Edna taps on the reporter's notebook. “Alright Janice, now we can get down to the real story. If you two could peel your eyes off the man's bum for a minute, I am telling you this guy, Jake, is the real trouble. We don't know where he came from or what he does. I think he's dangerous.”

Sunny scoffs. “Oh Edna, you are always exaggerating! Don't start rumors.”

Janice, now all ears, flips to a new page in her steno notepad, clicks her pen several times then begins taking notes. “Now, Ms Allen, with two L's, you said. What exactly do you mean by danger?”

“Well, now I've got your attention. You might want to wipe that drool off your chin, Janice. Let me tell you about this Jake character....”

“Alright, that's enough.” Sunny says. “Sorry, we don't really know anything about the man.”

“Oh, she's just saying that because she has the hotsie-totsie's for him! If you know what I mean, Janice.” Edna winks at the reporter again, but Janice doesn’t notice as she continues to write furiously.

“What? I do not! What are you writing there?” Sunny cranes her neck to see Janice’s pad. “Quit writing! Edna, I am leaving, so if you want a ride home, you better get your hotsie-totsie out to the car! I don't even want coffee anymore!” She pulls on Edna's purse strap while Edna is making 'call me' miming motions with her hand up to her ear to Janice.

“I gotta go, Janice. But mark my words, this guy might be booty-licious, but there is trouble brewing in Pleasant Valley...”

Well, that’s a small dose of life in Pleasant Valley. For more of the antics of Sunny and her pals, the Pleasant Valley Page Turners, check out ‘Another Saturday Night and I Ain’t Got No Body, available on Amazon.com in paperback and Kindle editions.

I am often told that Edna is a favorite character in my book, due to her fun and quirky personality. I would love it if you left a comment about a favorite character you love, in fiction or in real life, that makes you laugh just by thinking about them. Edna is a composite character made up of several older women in my life, but especially, my own grandmother, who always had me stitches. Thanks for stopping by Jennifer’s blog.  

Friday Fun! Meet author Jocelyn Bell!

Thanks for being here, Jocelyn! Just gotta say how much I really loved this novella. Coop is a hero to die for! :) Best of luck and wishing you tons of sales!

*******

TGIF! First I would like to say thank you to Jennifer Jakes for hosting me on her blog today. I always have a good time when I am here and look forward to getting to know all of her great readers!

I thought I would talk a little about Pen Names, because I was always fascinated with them as a reader and as an aspiring writer, it didn’t make sense that someone would not want to take full credit for their work. Then as an author it suddenly came up and I found some pretty rational and maybe one, tiny little, less rational reason to use pen names! J Here is my quirky story on pen names.

Many authors have pen names and I am sure that everyone has their own special reason. I use them for three reasons. One, because I write more than one genre and I don't want anyone who is a fan of my Contemporary Romances (Kelly Rae) to be offended should they pick up one of my Adult Contemporary Romances (Jocelyn Bell), that includes my dad who only needs to know about the less steamy books!

Second, I chose not to use my married last name, because I didn't want my ex-husband to get a sliver of credit for my words, my work. It sounds less rational as I write it down, but it's the truth! So, I made a deal with my son to put his name all over the place in my Contemporary works, because at nine he was concerned that no one would know that I belonged to him. Super amazing kid, right? RIGHT! I wanted my novels to be all mine, so Kelly Rae it is!  

And thirdly (what an odd word, lol),  I chose to name my alter ego Jocelyn Bell, which is so far removed from my actual name, because she is really another whole side of me. As a writer I can be anything I want, write about anything I want, BE whomever I want. What power?

When I am writing books like, What If... I am the hopeless romantic, mushy, endless love sort of woman. But I cannot sustain this raw, sometimes overwhelming emotion all the time. There are days I am cynical or a real non-believer in happily-ever-after’s and more of a happy for now, sort of girl. On these days, I prefer to write about lust, not love. Or work on romances that are meant to be grand and wonderful, but short-lived.

Not every couple is meant for happily-ever- after. On those occasions Jocelyn Bell gets to come out and play and write novellas like the Voyeur Series, a three-part novella series about finding the person that fits for right now and doesn't focus so much on the forever and ever part. In the first novella Dare Me , a recently divorced Gina finds that her neighbor next door is the perfect escape from thinking about the loser husband who left her for a barista. In Want Me, which came out on December 18th, Angie is trying to avoid good-looking charming men and take her mother's advice to find a mediocre looking man, because they don't cheat. The only problem, her new roommate is fire and sweetness all rolled into one. What's a girl to do...beg him to leave or beg him to stay?

I love getting to be all the sides of myself as I write a new story. In my computer sit at least five different genres of started stories, on some I will write The End and others will just sit. But, either way for the moments that I spent writing a bit on each one, I got to be exactly who I am/was, in that moment. It's some pretty powerful stuff to get to express all of who you are in your work. Sometimes, the characters and stories are nothing of me or my life and all of my imagination, which is just as much fun. I think it must be why there are so many people who want to be actors in this world. It’s fun to be someone else for a while. The opportunity to be all that you are and nothing of who you are at the same time is very intoxicating!

Writing is simply the best!

For those of you who also enjoy a steamier read from time to time, Dare Me is currently available on Amazon, just click here to purchase, or preview if you like. If you stop by and grab a copy today, it’s FREE and there is an excerpt of novella number two, Want Me, in the back. This baby just got a new cover this month and I LOVE it!

       

If you have already read Dare Me and are ready to step into my next novella click here or on the cover above to preview or purchase Want Me!  Thanks for stopping in today, Happy New Year and New Books to all of you!

Xoxo

Jocelyn Bell

Friday Fun: Meet author Elke Feuer + Give*Away!

Hi, Jennifer. Thanks so much for having me as your guest today. I'll give away 1 eBook to a lucky commentator! Be sure to leave your email addy!

Thanks, Elke!! 

Tell us about your real life romance?

My husband and I met at the workplace during a training session. Luckily we didn’t work in the same department. He asked me out and the rest shall we say is history. We’ve been married almost four years.

What is your favorite writing conference to attend?

At the moment it’s RWA’s Regional Conference. I went for the first time two years ago, met amazing people, sat in informative sessions, and came back a new writer. I highly recommend it!

If you could time travel would you go forward or backward

Couldn’t I do both? I’d love to travel backward to see how people lived in the Victorian and Medieval times. Forward to see if they finally invent the device to combine my computer, phone, iPod, eReader into one tiny item that fit neatly in my handbag, right next to my car device like the one in Tron Legacy. Hey, a girl can dream can’t she?  

Tell us about your latest WIP

It’s called Deadly Bloodlines and what makes it exciting to write is that’s set in where I live in Grand Cayman and is about the daughter of a serial killer. I’m hopeful it will be the first of many set in Cayman. 

What is your favorite time of the year?

Without a doubt, Christmas. I get to spend more time with friends and family than any other time of the year and the weather is nicer in Grand Cayman where I live. The humidity drops and breezes blow cool enough that you can open your window.

How likely are people to end up in your next book?

Very likely. I’m a people watcher and a lot of times something about them jumps out at me and says “write me”. Who am I to say no?

Book Blurb

Restoration architect Josie Fagan takes on a project with lawyer and senator’s son, Patrick Pullman. It’s the perfect match. She needs his endorsement to save her business and he wants to restore his ancestral Chicago home. Love wasn’t part of her plan. Neither was being asked to stay at his home, haunted by ghosts, or discovering she has a claim to his home – which she adores. When she finds out his family may be responsible for her aunt’s disappearance fifty years ago, it’s a race to unearth the truth before she loses not only her business and her heart, but her life.

Patrick can’t deny his attraction to Josie and is willing to take a chance on love since his broken engagement a year earlier. Things become complicated when he learns of their family connection and her claim to the home he loves. He doesn’t believe in ghosts, or that his family is involved in her aunt’s disappearance, so insists they work together. But, when he starts seeing his uncle’s ghost, and threats are made on her life, he’s forced to confront the possibility his family could be responsible.

The ghosts of their aunt and uncle forge a connection through them, but is what they feel love or just the ghosts living out their unfinished lives?

Excerpt

Her breath stopped when she walked into his office.

At home, he’d been imposing with his broad shoulders and confident, arrogant air. In the courtroom, he was known as Calculating Pullman for the way he won cases. Seated behind his large mahogany desk he was a frightening force.

“Please have a seat.” He pointed to a chair in front of his desk.

Her heart dropped. She hoped he wasn’t going to give her a long speech like the ones his father gave. Just give me a straight yes or no, don’t sugar coat it. She sat calmly in the black leather chair, smiled through gritted teeth, and for a moment regretted her blatant confidence when they met.

His fingers played with the onyx paperweight on his desk. “Did you get new clients?”

Her heartbeat raced as she shook her head slowly.

“Good, I want you to do the restoration.” His eyes rose to meet hers.

Oh man! There was a catch, and she wasn’t going to like it.

“I want you stay at the house during the renovations and not take on any other jobs until mine is done.”

“What?” He couldn’t be serious. She searched his face. He was. “Why do I need to stay at the house?”

“I need this project finished on time and that will mean having you close to discuss designs and restoration changes. Living at the house is the best option and also eliminates the risk of theft.” He leaned back in his chair. “Room and board is free. You don’t want to waste money your business needs, do you?”

Damn, he knew about her finances and was going to play hardball. Well, she had no intention of letting him use it against her. She was the best candidate and they both knew it. If she wasn’t, he would’ve hired another company. “I want a flattering personal reference,” she countered.

A cocky grin curved his lips. “Then I want guarantees.”

She held his gaze.

“You’ll get your reference if you meet my six-month deadline, if I’m satisfied with the quality of the work, and if the job comes within budget.” He moved his chair back into the upright position.

“That will not include changes you make to my original estimate or if you select inferior products,” she added quickly.

His smile broadened and a boyish dimple winked at her.

Is he enjoying this?

Damn him, he is!

She didn’t like it one bit. He was taking away the control she wanted, needed, to have.

The excitement she’d felt when he agreed to hire her vanished. The masculine atmosphere that had floated in the air like cheap cologne when she arrived squeezed around her, making her uncomfortable.

“Do we have a deal?”

I love hearing from readers. They can contact with me at:

http://elkefeuer.com/

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/pages/Elke-Feuer/185367964831994

https://twitter.com/ElkeFeuer

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6550227.Elke_Feuer

http://www.crimsonromance.com/elke-feuer/

Where to get the book

http://ibookstore.com/

Amazon.co.uk

Amazon.ca

eBooks.com

Friday Fun: Meet Megan Kelly! + Give*Away!

Please help me welcome my friend and RWA chapter mate, the talented MEGAN KELLY!

Thank you for having me here, Jennifer.

I'm offering two items today to one commenter who will be drawn at random. 1) a .pdf version of either Holly & Ivey or Santa Dear (winner's choice) and 2) a hand-knit scarf resembling one featured in Holly & Ivey. There's a fun scene when this comes into play. I wanted to honor the story and give the readers a little something extra. (I'll need the winner's email and home addresses to award both items.)

Now, what do you want to know, Jennifer?

 Do you have critique partners?

Let me shout a resounding YES to this. My crit partners supported me through the writing of HOLLY & IVEY. They steered me back on the path, told me when I was being too cute or obscure, read fast and read through the holidays for me. I had extra helpers this time, including a beta reader.

One of my techie partners held my hand through the self-publishing part. Me, formatting and uploading? Pass the tequila!  Someone rushed me emergency chocolate. Others cheered from the sidelines. It takes a village for me to produce a book.
Tell us about your real life romance. I have the most supportive husband on the planet. He's grown used to my odd hours. In fact, he's often rising for work when I'm going to bed. Earlier this week, I told him my character was unexpectedly injured and it screwed up my entire idea for the next chapter--that now this really cool thing couldn't happen. He asked why and I said because my character sprained his ankle!  "Why did he sprain his ankle?" my DH asked. My response: "I don't know. I didn't plan for that to happen."  He nodded and said, "I understand."

And he does.

 Now, that's love.

 If you could time travel would you go forward or backward? No. [grinning]

I wouldn't go forward because I'd worry about messing with the time continuum. If I went backward, I wouldn't change things, but I'd spend time with my father who died when I was too young to appreciate him.
 If you could switch places with one of your characters would you? I don't think so. I've already been them, in a sense, when they emerged from my fingertips. My characters all find everlasting love, and I have that. (I'm sounding like a total dweeb, aren't I?)
 Tell us a little about your WIP. "Holly & Ivey: Christmas in Stilton" came about due to a publisher's call for a holiday story. Three friends helped me brainstorm it one night in a hotel. I believe wine was involved. Since I'd planned a vacation already which overlapped the deadline date, I chose to publish it myself instead of rushing the writing. I learned so much during the process, but it never would have come together so well without the help from my friends. As stated in disclaimers in the front of books: all screwed up parts are my fault (or words to that effect).

Thank you for having me, and thanks to everyone for reading along. Please visit my website at http://www.megankellybooks.com.

  

BLURB:

"HOLLY & IVEY: Christmas in Stilton"  Holly MacDonald rushes to the town she left as a child to prevent her friend from marrying an unfaithful groom. Her old buddy, Luke Ivey, is the best man and intends to stop her interference. She's no longer his tomboy pal, and he's no longer her nerdy sidekick. They fall for each other despite their different views on the wedding. But when "The Wedding March" fades and Christmas is over, will they stay together?

Holly & Ivey buy links: http://www.amazon.com/Holly-Ivey-Christmas-Stilton-ebook/dp/B00AFGKDU6/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1354246453&sr=1-1&keywords=holly+%26+Ivey

Holly & Ivey excerpt:

http://www.megankellybooks.com/excerpt_H&I_Megan_Kelly.pdf

Santa Dear buy links:

Kindle http://www.amazon.com/Santa-Dear-ebook/dp/B006LSLXOC/ref=sr_1_9?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1323888317&sr=1-9

Nook  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/santa-dear-megan-kelly/1107967081?ean=9781618426543&itm=1&usri=santa%2Bdear

Apple (iProducts) https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/santa-dear/id488841113?mt=11

Santa Dear excerpt: http://www.megankellybooks.com/excerpt_Santa_Dear.pdf

Friday Fun : Meet Ashlyn Mathews!! + Give*Away!

Jennifer,

Thank you so much for having me on your blog. I’d love to offer your readers a chance to win Shadow Watcher delivered to their Kindle or Nook. Also, I’m running a contest on my website, www.ashlynmathews.com, to win all three of my books. Good luck!

Was your road to publication a delightful stroll in the park or a tiring jog over hot coals? My road to publication was easy. Sometimes so easy, I’m embarrassed to admit it. However, it’s the “after” that was the most challenging. For Shadow Watcher, I was asked by my editor to do a “wholesale rewrite.” What that meant was several subplots were cut, secondary characters were killed off, and my premise of the hero and heroine being soul mates was abandoned. I also went from a 75k manuscript to 55k. That happened in 3 weeks. I agonized and cried over the changes. However, in the end, I hunkered down and rewrote/revise, and I think my story is better for it.

What is the most difficult for you to write: Characters, conflict, emotions? Conveying emotion on paper is the hardest for me. Conflict I get. My characters I know from birth before I write their stories. But to convey emotion in a non-cliché manner is hard. I remember with Shadow Watcher, my editor was like, this is a romance. Readers expect your characters to show or tell us what they feel. I’m very action oriented so I try to convey my characters’ emotions through action. That may or may not be the right way to do it, but that’s what has worked for me. A character can only cry or smile in so many different ways, lol.

Do you have critique partners? I don’t have critique partners but I use two or three consistent beta readers who give me a general idea of what they like/dislike, any plot holes, and clarification points that need addressing. They don’t focus on grammar but the overall picture. I find this process more useful than a critique group or partner. When I have used critique partners or a group, I find that it takes me longer to finish a book because I’m constantly changing things based on that critique. Then I doubt myself and it becomes a spiraling free fall of constant rewrites and edits which I don’t have the patience for. I get really cranky, lol. I’m sure for some writers, a critique group is invaluable. I say do whatever works!

What music are you listening to lately? I like to listen to angsty, haunting music that represents my books. For Shadow Watcher, I suggest Skillet’s Awake and Alive. For If Only, it’s 3 Doors Down’s Here By Me. Right now, I’m listening to Richard Marx’s Hazard based off of a fellow author’s top 10 favorite tunes. Mostly, I like rock. But I enjoy all types of music. For my latest WIP, Echo UnMarked, it’s the Phantom of the Opera.

Tell us a little about your WIP. My next WIP is Echo UnMarked, a Shadow Watcher novel. I have some ideas of a plot but nothing concrete yet. Readers can find a blurb and excerpt on my website www.ashlynmathews.com.

Favorite romance movie? One of my favorite romance movies is House of Flying Daggers. The movie begs the question of “Is there such a thing as love at first sight?” It’s a tragic love story with a love triangle set in the forefront of an impending war. I’ve watched it several times and the ending still has me grabbing for my box of Kleenex.

Blurb for Shadow Watcher: Demon Hunter Sophie Sinclair and ex-Homicide Detective Ryan Campbell are pitted against one another, tested by mysterious forces in a dangerous game of secret identities, contracts for murder, and past betrayals.

Sophie Sinclair was presumed dead. When an enemy’s transmitter reveals her existence, she must return home to bargain for her ex-lover’s life and face the unanswered questions from her past.

Ryan Campbell is a reluctant fighter. Bitter since his father’s murder, he wants nothing to do with the paranormal world. When his act of betrayal is discovered, he must do the unthinkable to save his life.

Duty above love, duty above family, and to protect the weak from the strong. Sophie has always lived by her family’s motto. Will she choose to protect the ex-lover from her past or the reluctant fighter who could be her future? She can save only one man.

If Only (Available 12/3/12):  One night. One accident. A friendship torn. A chance at love lost.

Excerpt:

A funeral was the worst place for a reunion. Beneath her umbrella, Asa kept her head lowered. Otherwise, her eyes would be drawn to the man standing in front of the casket, his shoulders hunched beneath his suit, his gaze down cast as cold rain fell from the skies.

Rhys Miles. The man who had hurt her with an insensitive comment during one of the most memorable nights of her life, and a man she had hurt in return with her own painful words. The minister’s final prayer and the whispers of “Amen” from the handful of mourners pulled Asa out of her thoughts. Giving the casket one last glance, she hurried away, but wasn’t quick enough.

 “You weren’t invited, Asa.”

Rhys’s tone was harsh and filled with animosity. Asa dug her nails into her palm and gripped the umbrella’s handle tight. Yet, beneath his dislike of her was a grief she could relate with, and for his sadness, she stopped and faced the man who used to be one of her good friends.

“I loved your grandmother, and she cared about me. I have every right to be here.”

Unlike the other mourners, who came prepared with an umbrella in hand, Rhys appeared to enjoy the rain as he tilted his face to the sky. The ink of his hair appeared darker than her own strands of black, if that were possible, while his suit molded to his body like a woman offering him her comfort.

He was a tall guy. If things were different between them, she could share in his grief and settle her head on his chest, over the spot above his heart. She’d run her fingers across the straight brows over his intense hazel eyes then down the chiseled plane of his face before she would press her lips to his cheek.

But their situation remained the same for the past year. He avoided her. She tried to forget him. It hadn’t been easy. Asa waited for him to say something, anything. The rain continued to fall while his silence echoed in her ears.

Taking a deep breath, he redirected his attention back on her. “You might’ve been Jo’s neighbor, and yeah, she might’ve loved you like you were her own flesh and blood, but she damn well knows how I feel about you.”

How I feel about you. His last words whispered hot on her forehead. The umbrella, with its edges tipped upward, should’ve distanced them. Instead it concealed their exchange from curious stares as the others filtered to their cars leaving her alone with him.

Shoving her free hand inside her coat pocket, Asa mentally counted to ten. The simple task proved difficult. She hadn’t been this close to Rhys since they had slept together at a party almost a year ago.

He had loosened the tie around his neck, exposing tan skin she remembered flicking her tongue over, the salty taste of him from their lovemaking still embedded deep in her memory. Through the smell of wet rain, she caught a whiff of his deodorant. Old Spice. Sexy, familiar, and very much Rhys.

Friday Fun! Celery, Sex and Other Things ....

I have a weird and raunchy sense of humor. Tell me a dirty joke, I won’t only laugh, I’ll share it with the world!

The Harder series began with Monkeys, Sex and Other Birthday Surprises. It was supposed to be a stand-alone erotic short story, but then Missy’s family started telling me their stories! I figured I’d better listen to the voices in my head so they would shut up.

To get through most things in life, I believe you need a sense of humor. Thank goodness for mine! The second book in the series, Celery, Sex and Other Good Things for the Heart is another comedy about two people taking a chance and trying to get it right. In real life, mistakes happen. People have misunderstandings. Love and sex don’t always go according to plan. This is what I want my characters to do to. Go after what you want, be willing to laugh at yourself, love fiercely, be naughty and have fun! Beware – this book is an erotic experience that will be sure to make you laugh out loud!

Blurb:

On the eve of her sister’s birthday party, Miranda knows her sister will be getting some action from her dream man. After all, Miranda did orchestrate them meeting in person. Jealous, Miranda thinks it’s high time she get some herself, and who better to satisfy her needs than her hot friend, Dan? But she doesn’t like it vanilla, and worries that Dan may be all talk and no action.

Thrilled doesn’t begin to describe Dan’s feelings when he and Miranda finally agree to act on their attraction. He knows she struggles to maintain control of situations, largely due to her unpredictable family who create havoc in her life. He is willing to let her take control in the bedroom, but knows he has to make her see that surrendering to him is what she really needs.

Throw in her interfering family, a surprise visit from her brother and his pet primate, Miranda’s wish to make an ordinary vegetable sexy, and it makes for an evening neither one will soon forget. These lovers discover that love is even better for your heart than celery.

Excerpt:

She shrugged and opened the refrigerator, rummaging around inside. “We’re a weird bunch in my family.”

“No shit. Okay, let me get this straight—you’re willing to blow me to A. make your sister jealous, or B. brag to her?”

Glancing at him over the top of the fridge door, her expression one like he’d sprouted two heads. “Blowing you? Presumptuous.” Ducking down again, she opened a drawer. “Damn—I need to get groceries. All I have is celery.” She straightened, waving a stalk of celery, the leaves bobbing from side to side.

“Rabbit food?” he questioned.

“Celery is good for the heart, the digestion, and it helps you feel full so you don’t want to snack.” She closed the fridge and placed one hand on her hip.

Now he looked at her as if she’d grown another head. “Say what?”

She rolled her eyes, and said, “I’ve been trying to lose weight, remember? I’ve added more veggies to my diet.”

He grabbed the piece of celery from her hand, and tapped her nose with the leaves. “You don’t need to diet. You’re perfect just the way you are.” His gaze roved her curvaceous form, his loins tightening in response. Brushing the celery leaves against her cheek, he stared back into her eyes. “Every sexy inch of you.”

She snatched the vegetable out of his hand. “Celery isn’t sexy.” A mischievous light sparkled in her eyes. “Or is it?”

Available now at:

http://store.secretcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=book_info&cPath=4&products_id=434

Bio:

Kellie Kamryn spends most of her days as a sweet lady working as an occasional chauffeur, part-time cook, half-time maid, arm-chair psychologist, and full-time captain of her crew. In her spare time, she brings out her sassy side using her imagination to write stories and poetry that sweep herself and readers into other worlds. Whether you like it sweet, or hot and steamy, Kellie is sure to write something to melt your heart or your undies! Her vivid story-telling and quirky sense of humor have gained her numerous 5-star reader and reviewer reviews. Multi-talented, she does voice work recording audiobooks, available on Amazon, iTunes, Audible and other retailers. Readers can visit with her at www.kelliekamryn.com to check out all the books she has to offer, or chat with her on facebook: www.facebook.com/KellieKamryn or twitter https://twitter.com/KellieKamryn

Release for hot, new "Vegas" Series – Are you feeling lucky

  

Thank you, Jennifer, for letting me visit your blog today and for your support in helping me spread the news about my new series called "Vegas"

~Welcome~

This is release day for the new romantic suspense

Vegas Series by Mimi Barbour

  "Partners" Book One in the new Romantic Suspense Vegas Series. 

Riveting and fast-paced, this short blockbuster will introduce you to Aurora Morelli and Kai Lawson, the characters who are the stars of the Vegas Series.

In this novel, Aurora is forced to accept one very difficult fact—she's lonesome for her partner Debbie. An attack by a maniac put paid to their working together and Aurora is pissed. She's out to get the madman who hurt her friend and God help anyone who gets in her way.  Therefore when a new partner is forced on her, a bloody hotshot no less, the kind of dude she always stays as far away from as possible, she's even more pissed.

This action–packed short is humorous and will sweep you into the lives of these Las Vegas Detectives.

Short Excerpt – Chapter One

So this is what missing someone feels like. Kind of sad and lonely mashed together, eating away at you all day long. Aurora had never felt this way before; wouldn’t have given herself permission. This time the annoying ache refused to stop.

She seldom allowed gloomy thoughts to grab hold and mess with her head. But looking around the small office assigned to her and another, seeing the empty desk, sorrow gnawed away until she gave in. Her old partner Deb left behind a hollow emptiness, a sensation she wouldn’t ever admit to anyone else. What did you expect? She chastised herself. Not having the person you trust more than anyone else in the world backing you up sucked big time.

Two weeks ago, life had been normal. She’d gone to get a cup of the sludge they called coffee and left Debbie working on their backlog of case files. Returning to their office, Lieutenant Cory Ashton had caught up with her and they’d stepped into the room together, both coming to a dead stop. Debbie, who’d lately taken to the layered look with sloppy clothes, had bent over to pick something up from the floor and everything had draped open— her pregnant belly had been revealed for all to see.

 "Roll the Dice" Book Two in the romantic suspense Vegas Series.

“You shot me!” Aurora is incensed. Her new partner shrugs and answers. “I saved your life.” From the very first page of this riveting story, these two battle for supremacy in trying to catch the serial rapist who ripped both their lives apart. With all her might, she fights the attraction to his baby blues that tease and start her internal warning devices humming. After all, her job is her life and determination has always been her lifeline.

Kai has a mission of honor to undertake. The man who’d raped his sister can’t be allowed to live. After all, she hadn’t! Revenge fills his soul while visions of his new partner fills his heart. The sassy woman rattles his calm, and he can’t keep his hands to himself. Doesn’t mean she has the power to stop him from doing what has to be done.

Short Excerpt – Chapter One

“You shot me!”

“You told me to.”

“Dumb shit!” Aurora pushed her new partner from hovering over her so she could sit up. “I didn't mean it. I just wanted you to scare Rhondo.” She felt blood poring from the wound on her arm and purposely kept her head turned away.

“Shooting you did scare him. He let you go, didn't he?”

Aurora frowned at him. Why did his voice have to sound so damn reasonable?

“What-ever!” She hoped her scorn would get to him.

“Hey! I saw his eyes, you didn’t.  He had every intention of using that knife. You know, the sharp one he had pressed against your throat. If I’d shot him instead of you…” He shrugged.

Aurora shuddered, fighting off nausea. She didn’t want to listen to reason. Being angry made the situation a whole lot easier to deal with. Sarcasm, the best weapon she had in a macho man's environment, replaced whining.

She glared at him and saw his shapely eyebrows rise. The light of the bulb hanging from the ceiling of the cruddy apartment haloed his head making the bare skin shine.  “Just my frigging luck to end up with a partner who thinks and looks like Bruce Willis."

Kai chuckled. Her glower put a quick end to his merriment. He tried changing the subject with sweet talk. "I've been told I have a nicely shaped head for being bald."

"Sure and it goes swell with your baby-blue eyes." She sneered on purpose. No way would she admit he did look good.

His response was a grunt of displeasure. “Are you always this crabby?”

Disbelief shone in her amazed expression. “Not at all…” She said, disdain evident. “…only when I’ve been shot.”

"Vegas" Contest Rules

(Sept 15 – Sept 30th)

1. Read the book called "Roll the Dice".

2. Write an honest review for Amazon.

3. Send a copy of Amazon's notice to

mimibarbour@hotmail.com

Then…

you'll have a chance at being the lucky winner of a

$50 Amazon Gift Certificate

I've purposely set the price of the book down to $.99 for this contest and on Sept 19 & 20 it will be promoted in the

www.Freepartay.com

and will be …

…you guessed it!

FREE!!!

Good Luck!!!