Authors in Bloom 2018 with S.J. Maylee #gardeningtips #romance

Posted on April 18, 2018 by S.J. Maylee

Welcome to the Authors in Bloom Blog Hop!

Gardening is one of my favorite things. In fact, it even inspired my tagline.

Blooming Hot Romance.

❤

Life can be harsh. <- There is some honesty. It’s definitely my truth. Over the years, I’ve looked to my garden for tranquility. But it can be such a big undertaking, so overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. Below you’ll find links to my posts filled with tips from my first two years from the Authors in Bloom hop, including new tips for this year, and details on my giveaway and the grand prize. I hope you find something that makes your gardening life easier, less harsh, and enjoyable.

Keep reading for my gardening tips, my giveaway, AND how to enter for your chance to win the fab GRAND PRIZE!

S.J.’s Tips for Starting Seeds Indoors!

I’ve started seeds before, but over the years I’ve gotten a bit more committed. 🙂 Here’s a look at a few of the things I’ve collected, heating pad, mini and larger seed trays, mini and larger lids for those trays, peat moss plugs, and adjustable lighting.

Before I get started, I spend time reading about my seeds. I take notes on the blooming or harvesting stats. After subtracting from the day I want them to bloom, I determine the day I start my seeds. Just this past week, I started several sunflower seeds. I’ll be starting several more over the next couple months. This year, I’m attempting to have sunflowers blooming in my garden all summer long.

There are several seeds that I don’t start indoors. Carrots, peas, and cucumbers sprout quickly. After I prepare my garden in the spring, I place the seeds directly into the ground.

To start seeds indoors you’ll need to control a few things.

Heat : Seeds need warmth to sprout. Most homes are warm enough for the seeds, but this time of year, our home is a little cooler. A seed heating pad will lift the temp by about ten degrees.
Dirt : Most soil is a bit too heavy and, well, dirty. Lol. Yes, I did call most soil dirty. Seeds need a clean environment, free of disease and no competition for the attention of the important stuff like moisture, heat, and light. Sterile starting soil is the way to go. Peat moss also creates a lovely environment for seeds. It holds onto moisture, but not too much. It’s light and won’t stop the delicate roots from growing.
Container : The container is another area with lots of options. You certainly could put the soil in any small container. I’ve found peat moss plugs that fit perfectly into a seed starter tray. I have the smaller trays you see in the picture above, since I’m only starting a few seeds at the moment. Depending on how much growth you get, you may need to re-pot your seedlings before transitioning them outdoors. Here’s an extra tip: When transplanting, pull tiny plants up by the leaf, not the stem. The stem is delicate at this stage and easily damaged.
Moisture : Your seeds need water, but not too much. Your soil starter should be wet, but not dripping the day you put your seeds in place. Each day there after, you’ll want to ensure the soil is moist and the air has humidity. If you have a tray with a plastic lid, be sure to set this on your tray to hold in the moisture. You can be creative here, lots of lids will do, as long as light can get through. If your container has holes in the bottom and you have it sitting on a tray of some kind, put some water, not a lot, in that bottom tray. The starter soil can suck up the water as needed through the hole in the bottom of the container. The last thing you want is the seeds to dry out! Dry seeds do not sprout. Each day, check on the water in the tray as well as the soil. Add water as needed.
Light : Seeds don’t need light before they sprout, but as soon as they do, they’ll need light. Get ready! To ensure you don’t have leggy, bendy stems, you’ll want to supplement sunlight. A simple sunny windowsill is not sufficient for young plants. Don’t make your tender plants bend to find the light. If you want straight plants, get that light directly overhead. Florescent lights are perfect for this task, even better if you can position that light a few inches from your plant. As your plants grow, you’ll need to raise the light. I actually have a lid for the larger tray you see in the pictures that will accommodate my young plants once they’ve outgrown the shorter lid. By raising the roof and raising the light, you’ll be directly the plants straight up.
Notes: It will be some time until you can tell what’s what. Be sure to document what seeds you have where. I have popsicle sticks ready to stick in as soon as the lids come off. Also, take notes on your process, based on your results, you can get ideas of what to change for next year and what to do the same.

Hardening : Once your seedlings are growing strong, and the risk of frost has past, it will be time to transition them to growing outside. To start, take your plants outside for a few hours each day, in a protected (not windy) area, and bring them back inside at night. If you have a cold frame, that would be a perfect place to harden your plants. Each day, lengthen the amount of time you leave them outside and then at the end of a 7-day period, you can plant them in their final spot in your yard.

Hope these tips help!

Extra Tips:

General Gardening Tips – Authors in Bloom 2017

General Gardening Tips – Authors in Bloom 2016

Be sure to subscribe to my >> New Release Newsletter << One subscriber wins a $5 gift card in every issue.

Here’s a look inside the newest release in my Assassins and Sweethearts Series:

Unexpected Destiny

Book Description:

Elizabeth Martin thought she already had her happily ever after, that is until her husband mysteriously disappeared. Aidan Clery is a skilled assassin for hire who wants nothing more than to find the love of his life. Fate throws Liz in his path and everything is perfect, except Aidan just won the contract on her life.

The truth surrounding Liz’s estranged husband takes the pair on a dangerous journey. Nothing in their lives will ever be the same. Destiny may be unexpected but it will be up to Aidan and Liz to discover the truth and claim their real happily ever after.

Excerpt:

Aidan turned off the faucet and caught the reflection of those gorgeous brown eyes in the mirror.

“Oops. Wrong door,” said his girl as she turned around.

“I can share.” He could handle the surveillance later. This woman deserved his attention.

She stopped and turned around. “Okay then.” She took a step toward him. “You know what? I should have asked for confirmation earlier.” Her gaze was full of mischief.

“You’re right. You should have asked.” He took a hold of her hand and pulled her close. “I sure would like to see that tiny scrap of lace.” And just like that his night got infinitely better.

She stopped her forward movement when their chests were a mere inch apart. A nice rosy blush heated her cheeks. He kept hold of her hand while her other played with the lapel of his dark leather jacket. “I can’t believe I’m doing this.”

“You need to get back to your friends?”

“Yes, but…” She licked her bottom lip. “Maybe I could stay here for a few minutes.”

“At least a few.” He tapped the bottom of her chin. “How about you start by telling me your name?”

“Liz.” Her gaze met his and he wanted time to stop. Something about the lonely look in her eyes called to him to not let her get away. She shifted closer. “Who are you?”

He pushed his finger over her waistband, rubbing her hipbone. “I’m Aidan.” He squeezed the hand he still held. Her soft body relaxed against his.

“I should probably go. I need to get my friends home.”

“I don’t think you should go anywhere.” He brushed his nose against hers.

A delicious moan slipped from her lips. “I don’t want to leave but I need to make sure they get home safely.”

“It’s nice of you to look out for them.” Damn, she smelled good. It was lilacs or roses or something.

“I’d rather stay here with you.” She leaned in and their lips almost met. “My friends are always right. I should have gone out with them months ago.”

“Stay a few more minutes.” He caressed over her hips to her round ass. Hot tension filled his thoughts. Forget a few more minutes, he’d take all night and then some to explore this beautiful woman.

“More.” She scraped her teeth over her bottom lip.

A second later, the door opened. “Lizzy, we got to go. Emily isn’t feeling well.”

She dropped her head to his shoulder and he wrapped his arms around her.

“Oh, I’m so sorry, Lizzy.” The woman held the door open. “You’re right. He is cute. Bring him with you. Emily won’t mind.”

“She’ll be right out,” he said. Once the friend left the bathroom, he brushed her hair behind her shoulders and stroked her back.

“I feel like I’m cursed.”

“You and me both, sweetheart.” He didn’t let her go.

“Well.” She looked up at him from under her long, dark lashes. “It’s not what I had in mind but would you help me with my friends?” The soft tone of her voice had him imagining how she’d purr if he made her come. “I think I might be the only one sober and they can be a bit much to wrangle into a cab. They live north in Edgewater and then we could do something, maybe go back to my place.” She worried her poor bottom lip once more.

“I’d like that.” He squeezed her ass. “Sure. I’ll help, Lizzy.” He tugged on her hair. Then he’d help himself to more of her.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND BOOKS BY S.J. MAYLEE:

Evernight Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

BookStrand | Smashwords | iTunes

S.J. Maylee’s International Giveaway:

I’m giving away ALL the ebooks currently published in my Assassins and Sweethearts Series to one lucky commenter. To enter, leave a comment below with your favorite gardening tip and then click my >> Rafflecopter << for more chances to win.

GRAND PRIZE: We are giving away a Kindle Fire or Nook (winner’s choice) along with a 2nd prize of $25 gift card! Only those visitors who visit EACH and EVERY stop are eligible for the grand prize. So, keep hopping and comment at every stop. 😀

Powered by Linky Tools

Click here to view the list of links to the authors in the hop….

Winners will be posted on both Dianne Venetta’s blog and the BloominThyme websites.

Giveaway ends April 27th at 11:59pm EST.

Remember to take the time to smell the roses.

Meet S.J. Maylee at the Great Lakes Book Bash this weekend! #GLBB2017

Posted on October 25, 2017 by S.J. Maylee

Great Lakes Book Bash is happening again in Kalamazoo, MI October 27 and 28, 2017.

I’ll have a table with all kinds of stuff to give away and I’ll be selling three of my books too. See more details below.

I’m looking forward to meeting everyone and buying lots of new books.

It’s a fabulous event in a lovely city. Hope you’ll consider attending. ❤

You can find all the details on the event at https://greatlakesbookbash.com/

I’ll have THREE books for sale this weekend, each are highlighted below. I’ll have all kinds of swag to giveaway, including pins, zipper pulls, book cover post cards, and Evernight Publishing swag too. And if you buy a book, I have a special book cover beaded zipper pull for you.

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Love Projects Vol 1: Taking Chances and Taking Courage

Taking Chances Book Description:

Lydia’s father walked away from her when she was eight. She’s struggled to not let him affect her, but fears she wasn’t loveable enough to make him stay. Jake wants to love one woman, but after scaring the last woman he met outside of the club, he doubts he deserves the right. She protects her heart by sticking with her fantasies and he lives by a set of rules that excludes women who choose a vanilla lifestyle.

The two will be kept in a conference room working together until their special project is complete. If Lydia and Jake hold tight to their bland lives, they’ll always yearn for love that is out of reach. Together they find common ground, passion, and a reason to take chances. Once they discover the grand possibilities of the love they desire, they find themselves in the very place they tried never to be again, facing unguaranteed loved.

Taking Courage Book Description:

Janna’s ready to make over her life and get out from under the controlling thumb of her father. She doesn’t want another failed arranged marriage. She’s ready to do whatever it takes for the career she wants, enter the lifestyle she craves, and to earn the trust and love of the man that has captured her heart, but heartbreak and career hiccups seem to be her destiny.

Simon’s still recovering after his last submissive lied her way into his life. He’s not ready for Janna and how she pushes against his prejudices. He needs to decide if he’s willing to lose her or if he’ll fight for her love and submission.

Executive Assistant Anthology

Includes Unravel Me

executive-assistant 300x200

Unravel Me Book Description:

Mary is determined not to be distracted by the devilishly handsome Colin whose business deal is halting a much needed park. Armed with a plan, she tries to ignore her growing attraction.

After reading her resume, Colin believes Mary isn’t right for him or his office. However, he’s about to risk his biggest business deal yet when Mary knocks him off his game. The pair gives in to their growing desires, but Mary’s plan might unravel everything they’ve been building.

Unexpected Destiny, Assassins and Sweethearts Series

Unexpected Destiny by S.J. Maylee 400x600

Book Description:

12 Covers

New Release! Rush by C.E. Vescio #RomanticSuspense #Ballet @CaraVescio

Posted on October 24, 2017 by S.J. Maylee

RUSH BY C.E.VESCIO

BLURB

As the prima ballerina for a prominent San Francisco ballet company, Scarlet Rush is used to being on her toes- but after a failed kidnapping attempt, even her nimble feet aren’t enough to keep her out of reach of her rivals. Begrudgingly, she’s forced into the protective services of Alex Strong, a former private military contractor turned bodyguard. Scarlet isn’t thrilled to have Alex follow her every move, but as hidden dangers rise, she has no choice but to trust him.

Soon, Scarlet and Alex find themselves passionate partners in a dance all their own. Alex is captivated by Scarlet and knows he must protect her at all costs despite the pain of past demons still haunting him.

BUY LINKS:

Amazon // Evernight // Barnes & Noble // Book Strand // Smashwords

GOODREADS

RUSH SPOTIFY PLAYLIST

RUSH EXCERPT

Alex kept his gaze intently locked on her, watching the fluid movement of her silent twirls. He heard the soft thumps of her shoes and the sharp intake of her breathing as she glided over the dance floor. When she danced into the light, her expression held a soft sadness, and he could tell she was immersed in a secret world where no one could touch her.

From the point of her toes to the tips of her fingers, her grace held him captive, and he had to remind himself to blink. He understood now why Edward had chosen her. She commanded eyes to watch her with just her presence.

Scarlet danced around, holding her hands out to nothing, as if pleading to an invisible partner. Her leg rose in a controlled lift, and she extended her reach out. When her leg descended, she executed a turn, overstepped, and stumbled.

“Shit,” she muttered. She stopped and bent down to grab a towel on her bag. She wiped her forehead, then let her head lean back to stretch her neck.

Alex took another few steps into the room. “Is your back feeling better?”

Scarlet jumped, her hand flying to her mouth. She squinted at Alex, and recognition registered on her face. Scarlet smiled, putting the towel down to grab a water bottle.

“Yeah,” she said, taking a quick drink. “This is just a duo dance and it’s a little difficult when I don’t have my partner around, but he has a social life.”

Alex nodded. “So, even if you weren’t under curfew, you’d be here?”

“I like it here,” Scarlet said. “My grandmother always said dancing is the closest thing to magic.” She looked around and shrugged. “Guess I just get lost in my world. You don’t mind, do you? I won’t be much longer.”

“It’s fine,” Alex said. “I like watching you dance. It’s calming, even without music.”

Scarlet kept her eyes on him for a moment before she tilted her head in question. “Hey, do you want to do me a favor?”

Alex blinked. “Uh, depends.”

She chuckled, throwing the water bottle down. “I just need you to stand here as a base. I need to nail this sequence and the fouetté. Grab under my leg when I raise it to you. Then lift me from a floor position to mid, which is where your chin is, and right back down. I’ll guide you.”

Alex had no idea what she said, but he doubted it would be that complicated. He shrugged. “Okay.”

“Thanks.” She pointed at the floor. “Just stand here.”

Alex unbuttoned his blazer, removing it and his gun. He placed them on a chair against the wall and moved to the middle of the floor as directed.

Scarlet took a deep breath and her face relaxed. She fell into the same zone Alex had observed earlier, where it seemed nothing existed to her but dance. She stepped up to him, brushing her hand from his shoulder down to his palm. She grabbed hold and leaned in, kicking up behind her. He closed his eyes briefly as her movement made his pulse quicken.

Scarlet moved around him like an ethereal creature, her agile and controlled movements softly brushing against him. She ran her hands over his shoulders and his chest. He could hear her short breaths as her arms and legs executed their perfect action. He tensed up, attempting to push out the not-so professional thoughts that were slowly invading his mind.

Breathe, he commanded himself.

She stretched her body away from him, balancing perfectly on the tip of one foot, then turned back into him. Her back pressed into his chest and she brought her hands up toward his head, not quite brushing his face. He looked to the mirror across the room, studying the lines of her body.

He held his breath in again, as if it would help him feel less.

Scarlet spun around him one more time, ending in a series of turns before dropping down to his leg, and pushing away from him as if frightened.

He looked down at her in worry, but without missing a beat, she stretched away from him, arching her back.

Scarlet reached up a graceful hand to him. “Now pull me up to you.”

He took her hand, and pulled too hard. His strength lifted her easily off the floor and into his arms, which automatically closed around her as she collided with his chest.

She stopped and looked up at him in surprise. Both of their breathing elevated, despite Alex not having moved a muscle. He swallowed again and parted his lips, wanting to say something, but not knowing what.

Scarlet lifted her chin a little. Alex stared at her lips. The seemed to inch closer, full and waiting. He wanted to let the heated captivation of her dance push him over that edge, and the heavy tension of their embrace dared him to make that move. The sudden rush of desire surprised him.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

E. Vescio is a jack of all trades- and mastered at least one. Her first novel, Elegantly Wasted, touched on the demented and humorous side of a delightfully dysfunctional family. She’s a fan of writing and reading science fiction, urban fantasy, romantic suspense and contemporary fiction.
E. is a Navy vet, professional photographer, web designer, gamer, cosplayer, and a sporadic burlesque performer. She’s from Phoenix, but lives in Las Vegas with her husband, John and three mutts. They’re expecting their first child in January of 2018.

She’s passionate about typography, Shakespeare, theology, the music of Paul Simon, and Loki as portrayed by Tom Hiddleston.

FOLLOW C. E. VESCIO:

WEBSITE // TWITTER // FACEBOOK // INSTAGRAM // PINTEREST

Release Day! Smoke and Sin, The Perfect Gentlemen Series by Shayla Black and Lexi Blake #OneClick

Posted on September 26, 2017 by S.J. Maylee

New York Times Best Selling Authors Shayla Black and Lexi Blake invite you back into a world of passion and scandal.

More than a decade ago, Roman Calder had a scorching affair with the sister of one of his best friends. Augustine Spencer drove him so crazy he thought of nothing but her. The only thing they did more often than heat the sheets was fight. Unprepared for the intensity of their relationship, Roman broke things off and concentrated on things that made sense to him: his career and putting his best friend, Zack Hayes, in the White House.

Gus Spencer is known to Washington insiders as the president’s secret weapon. Gorgeous and brilliant, Gus runs the press pool with the determination of a shark. No one dares to cross her, not when she’s known for having a spine of steel…but long ago one man melted her down. Despite the fact that she’ll never forgive Roman for breaking her heart, now that they work together she can’t get him off her mind.

When a dangerous investigation leads both Roman and Gus to London, the heat between them becomes unbearable. As they begin to unravel an international conspiracy, they find themselves falling all over again. But when a killer threatens their world, can they fight to stay together or will the sins of their past keep them forever apart?

Kindle US | Kindle UK | Nook | iBooks | Kobo | GooglePlay | Amazon Print

ABOUT SHAYLA BLACK:

Shayla Black is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than fifty novels. For nearly twenty years, she’s written contemporary, erotic, paranormal, and historical romances via traditional, independent, foreign, and audio publishers. Her books have sold millions of copies and been published in a dozen languages.

Raised an only child, Shayla occupied herself with lots of daydreaming, much to the chagrin of her teachers. In college, she found her love for reading and realized that she could have a career publishing the stories spinning in her imagination. Though she graduated with a degree in Marketing/Advertising and embarked on a stint in corporate America to pay the bills, her heart has always been with her characters. She’s thrilled that she’s been living her dream as a full-time author for the past eight years.

Shayla currently lives in North Texas with her wonderfully supportive husband, her teenage daughter, and two spoiled tabbies. In her “free” time, she enjoys reality TV, reading, and listening to an eclectic blend of music.

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ABOUT LEXI BLAKE:

NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.

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New Release! Alphas of Danger Anthology is now LIVE!!! #RomanticSuspense

Posted on September 19, 2017 by S.J. Maylee

** 2016’s Alphas of Sin Anthology we’ve raised $5,000 to 4 Paws for Ability! We’ve been able to sponsor a puppy pen and not one but TWO puppies named Vixen & Frenzy. We will be following the journey of these two puppies to hopefully graduate and become service dogs to a family in need. You can come join our journey on our Facebook page Once Upon An Alpha. We are now BACK with Alphas of Danger, available NOW for a LIMITED TIME with ten bestselling authors and we hope you join us on the journey for 2017’s Alphas of Danger with ten never-been-told stories by ten bestselling authors**

COVER DESIGNER: COVER ME DARLING – MARISA-ROSE SHOR

PHOTOGRAPHER – WOODEN GATE PRODUCTIONS

MODEL – JASE DEAN

ALL NET PROCEEDS OF SALES DONATED TO 4 PAWS FOR ABILITY

Happy-Ever-After has never been so intoxicating…

Danger…

When a man has beaten it, he becomes a hero.

Lust…

When a woman tastes it, she is helpless to resist his pull.

Love…

It won’t come easily, especially between alpha men and their headstrong women. Threats lurk in the shadows, and the price for passion is often exacted with a bullet or a blade…but the sacrifice is worth it when devotion is the reward.

Ten bestselling authors, masters of spine-tingling romantic suspense, bring you brand-new stories that will yank you to the edge of your seat and have your heart pounding as you turn the pages.

Best of all, the proceeds will benefit 4 Paws for Ability, a worldwide agency that enriches the lives of children and veterans with disabilities by training and placing quality, task-trained service dogs.

Stories Contributed to Alphas of Danger:

SHAYLA BLACK – DEVOTED TO WICKED

LEXI BLAKE – COUNTDOWN

MARI CARR – POWER STRUGGLE

KRIS COOK – CIA COVERT TEAM: RAINBOW KNIGHTS (M/M)

ANISSA GARCIA – WITH A VENGEANCE

KYM GROSSO – HARD ASSET

JENNA JACOB – REVENGE ON THE ROCKS

KENNEDY LAYNE – SEDUCING DANGER

ISABELLA LAPEARL – ENFORCE HER – A LEATHER, PIPES & PASSION SHORT STORY

CARRIE ANN RYAN – EXECUTIVE INK – A MONTGOMERY INK SHORT STORY

For more information about this nonprofit organization: http://4pawsforability.org/

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SHAYLA BLACK

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LEXI BLAKE

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance that she found success. She likes to find humor in the strangest places. Lexi believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome or foursome may seem.

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MARI CARR

Writing a book was number one on Mari Carr’s bucket list and on her thirty-fourth birthday, she set out to see that goal achieved. Too many years later, her computer is jammed full of stories — novels, novellas, short stories and dead-ends and she has nearly eighty published works.

Virginia native, Mari Carr is a New York Times and USA TODAY bestseller of contemporary erotic romance novels. With over one million copies of her books sold, Mari was the winner of the Romance Writers of America’s Passionate Plume award for her novella, Erotic Research.

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KRIS COOK

Though starting in straight erotic romance, Kris’s total focus now is on gay romance. When asked why recently, his answer was “My muse finally came out of the closet. Isn’t it about time? I’ve been out since I was twenty-five.”

A voracious reader, Kris loves many genres of fiction, but this writer’s favorite books are romances that are edgy, sexy, with rich characters and unique challenges. Kris’s influences include Anne Rice, JR Ward, Lexi Blake and Shayla Black.

Kris is also the co-host of Romance OUT Loud, an audio podcast that features some of the best voices in gay romance fiction like, Andrew Grey, Damon Suede, Kindle Alexander, Felice Stevens, L.A. Witt, Sarina Bowen, and more.

Kris is married to the love of his life – Stephen.

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ANISSA GARCIA

Anissa Garcia earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Speech Communications and English. She held an array of jobs including Public Relations Manager for Barnes and Noble. Wanting a change of pace, she attended The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and trained full-time in theatre for two years. After working in Hollywood as an actress and casting assistant, she relocated to Austin, Texas and began writing freelance for Cosmopolitan and other publications. Her first book, A Promise Kept, is available now. A Promise Made will be available November 2016. When not writing stories, watching movies, or drinking a latte, she loves to daydream about romantic fictional men.

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KYM GROSSO

Kym Grosso is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the erotic paranormal series, The Immortals of New Orleans, and the contemporary erotic suspense series, Club Altura. In addition to romance novels, Kym has written and published several articles about autism, and is passionate about autism advocacy. She is also a contributing essay author in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Raising Kids on the Spectrum.

She lives in suburban Pennsylvania but has a not-so-secret desire to move to a beach in southern California where she can write while listening to the roar of the ocean. She holds a bachelor’s degree from West Chester University and a MBA from Widener University. In a previous life, she was employed as a speech therapist, a health care consultant, and a product manager for a software company. In 2012, Kym published her first novel and today, is a full time indie romance author.

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JENNA JACOB

USA Today Bestselling author Jenna Jacob paints a canvas of passion, romance, and humor as her Alpha men and the feisty women who love them unravel their souls and heal their scars to find their happily-ever-after kind of love. Heart-tugging, captivating, and steamy, Jenna’s books will surely leave you breathless and craving more.

A mom of four grown children, Jenna and her Alpha-Hunk husband live in Kansas. Jenna loves books, Harleys, music, and camping. Jenna’s zany sense of humor and lack of filter exemplify her motto: Live. Laugh. Love.

Meet the wild and wicked family in her sultry series: The Doms of Genesis. Or become spellbound by the searing love connection between Raine, Hammer, and Liam in her continuing saga: The Doms of Her Life (co-written with the amazing Shayla Black and Isabella La Pearl). Journey with couples struggling to resolve their pasts to discover unbridled love and devotion in Jenna’s new contemporary series: Passionate Hearts.

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KENNEDY LAYNE

Kennedy Layne is a USA Today bestselling author. She draws inspiration for her military romantic suspense novels in part from her not-so-secret second life as a wife of a retired Marine Master Sergeant. He doubles as her critique partner, beta reader, and military consultant. They live in the Midwest with their teenage son and menagerie of pets. The loyal dogs and mischievous cats appreciate her writing days as much as she does, usually curled up in front of the fireplace.

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ISABELLA LAPEARL

Isabella LaPearl is a USA Today bestselling author known for her collaboration with Shayla Black & Jenna Jacob for the Doms of Her Life Series. She enjoys writing sexy, erotic romance. A wife, mother, writer, reader and a love for riding motorcycles.

To say it’s been an extraordinary journey thus far would be an understatement… what a rush! What a thrill to realize dreams and see them go from a seed to fruition. So for all you aspiring Authors, who like me, have a fire inside that burns brightly and demands to be sated by writing… Never give up.

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CARRIE ANN RYAN

Carrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary and paranormal romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Redwood Pack, Talon Pack, and Gallagher Brothers series, which have sold over 2.0 million books worldwide. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over fifty novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not writing about bearded tattooed men or alpha wolves that need to find their mates, she’s reading as much as she can and exploring the world of baking and gourmet cooking.

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New Release! Stirring Up Glory, Stirred by Love Series by Kacey Hammell @KaceyHammell #MustRead

Posted on September 18, 2017 by S.J. Maylee

STIRRING UP GLORY
Stirred by Love Series: Book 2
Contemporary Erotic Romance, Rubenesque/BBW
ISBN: 978177394053
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Cover Artist: Jay Aheer

Shaken and Stirred with a splash of dirty.

She’s not the one he wants…

Drew McKenna is obsessed with the woman who saved his family’s business. She’s the last woman he should want, but his dreams are flooded with the sultry, sexy woman who gets under his skin. He’d not prepared to end their lengthy riff just so he can give into his desire to have the gorgeous woman under him.

But she is the one he needs…

Glory Pierce gave up on Drew the second he flung vicious insults her way. The harder she tries to forget how deep those scars run, however, the more he invades her thoughts. When tragedy strikes, Glory is forced to put aside her anger and work with the man she despises. But as they mix business with pleasure, the heat between them reaches fever pitch, secrets are revealed, and passions are stirred up in ways neither of them can ignore.

Excerpt:

Glory exited her father’s room and leaned against the wall. Drawing in deep breaths, she closed her eyes and kept the tears at bay. It was so strange to see the strongest man she knew so vulnerable. Her father worked day in and day out with little time off. It was hard to equate him to the man in that room. Though Dr. Cooper had tried to sound optimistic, her gut told her otherwise. Her father might not make it and she had to reconcile herself to that fate.

She adjusted her duffle bag on her shoulder and headed toward the front exit. There was nothing for her do tonight and sleep was her best recourse. The next few days would be full of tasks she wasn’t ready to handle. But he’d left her in charge—for whatever reason—and she’d do everything possible to handle his affairs until he recovered. And she had to hope that he’d recover. But she didn’t like the thought that she could screw something up and he’d have to fix later.

Sadness and panic churned in her stomach at the possibility of losing him and what she’d have to face with the family either way. Most of the Pierce family thrived on drama and conflict. She’d escaped it when her folks divorced, but growing up, she’d still spent as much time with her father as he allowed. They didn’t always have the best relationship, due to the chaos Freddie and Tanya preferred to create whenever she was around, but she loved him. And she never questioned his love for her.

Her father had always been transparent in his views of her. He’d never had faith in her to carry on the tradition of the men in her family to become mayor, but he’d done his best she supposed. Every first-born child of the last five generations was male and she was an anomaly by the way her family carried on. And since they held the mayor occupancy in town, no one ever let her forget that she’d broken the lineage and would never carry on that importance. It wasn’t a shoe-in whenever there was an election, but for generations, her family held the most power in town. It saddened her that Freddie was the only one left now to task the job to. And his troublemaker ways and disregard for anyone but himself and his mother, did not go unnoticed. Most of the town prayed there’d be another person to go against Freddie if her father was no longer able to hold his post. There wasn’t much to be happy about with that scenario.

As she stepped outside, she breathed in deeply, filling her lungs with fresh air, and rolled her shoulders to relieve the tension. As always, her stepmother and the gossipmongers of her family never ceased to stress her out. She avoided every family gathering for the sake of her sanity, which always irritated her father. But, it was her only salvation against the nosey-nellies who never kept their noses out of her business.

“How’s your dad doing?”

Her heart rate kicked up a few notches. The last thing she needed was more of Drew McKenna tonight, dammit. Raw from the long-buried emotions about her father, having him around could only cause more chaos. And the usual heartache.

But damn if he wasn’t hell-to-the-oh-my-god sexy as he leaned against his Harley. Arms crossed, biceps bulged beneath the sleeves of his t-shirt tucked into the waistband of his blue jeans. It appeared multiple finger swipes pushed his hair back to maintain the untamable ringlets that fell over his forehead and curled around his ears. Those sexy strands were one of the best things she loved most.

Love? Ugh, as if, lady. Speak for yourself.

Glory shoved the nagging voice away, unwilling to handle such nonsense tonight.

“Why are you still here?”

He shrugged. “Thought I’d offer you a ride home.”

“I don’t need your charity, Drew. Since when do you care what I do?” As soon as the words left her mouth, she wanted to eat them back again. Like a bull poked, his nostrils flared as usual and reminded her that their tumultuous but civil relationship always ended in an argument. And too much resentment.

“Let’s not do this again.” Drew stood, and waved a hand at his back seat. “You’ve had a long night, you’re worried for your old man, and I’m too damn exhausted to go toe-to-toe with you, Glory. For once, please shut up. Can we put aside whatever keeps us at one another’s throat for one night?”

Surprised, her jaw fell open and her eyes widened. Had Drew McKenna sounded reasonable and mature? A foreign impression in the years she’d known him, but she supposed he had a point. Over a decade of combating with him was now tiresome. How she’d allowed it to go on for so long was ridiculous, but wearing her coat of armor against him was her only defense.

“Are you coming or not?” He sat astride the bike, a second helmet in his hand and extended toward her.

“I’m only doing this because my car is in the shop and too tired to wait for a cab. You better not get me killed on this contraption, McKenna. I swear, I’ll haunt your ass forever if you do.” Glory grabbed the helmet and placed it on her head, then adjusted the strap beneath her chin. She moved closer, made sure her duffle bag was over both shoulders was tight, and lifted one leg over the seat.

“You haunt me now, woman, but don’t worry, you’re safe with me.” The engine cut out many of his words and Glory wasn’t sure what he meant about haunting him, but she’d had to have heard him wrong. Her gut instincts knew better than to trust him.

“Ready?” he glanced back at her.

After a hard swallow, she set her hands at his waist. Her body shivered as his warmth curled around her fingers.

“You have to hold on tighter than that, doll.” Drew grabbed both her wrists and dragged her forward until her chin hit his back. She crossed her arms at the front of his waist and held on.

The bike vibrated beneath her as he gunned the engine and roared through the parking lot and into the streets.

Her nipples tightened beneath her bra as she rested against his hot back and his enjoyable rich aroma of sandalwood wafted into her nose. Glory leaned a cheek on his shoulder, closed her eyes and blocked out the buildings rushing by. His potent scent reminded her of one night, so long ago.

A memory that never stopped breaking her heart. No matter how much she tried, it played in her head over and over, when she least expected it and left her vulnerable and aching. With her forehead on his back, the vibration of the machine beneath her ass pulsed through her. Shit. A reminder of how long it had been since she’d been with a man was the last thing she needed. Though her dating life sucked and there had been a couple men in her life over the last decade, she’d hoped the heartbreaking memories would fade quickly. But the more she wished to forget the past, the less and less pleasure she found in dating because she couldn’t erase the memories.

During the nights at Controlled Iris—as she succumbed to her voyeuristic tendencies that appeased her well enough—never stopped her from going back again and again. The small solace of pleasure she sought there kept her sane with the unattended needs and hunger coursing through her often. One exciting night a decade ago had ruined her for life. She wanted the same thrill of pleasure and the powerful delirious ecstasy again. But it was unattainable.

He was unattainable.

Nothing compared to that one night. And while Controlled Iris fed a few of her baser needs and fetishes, it wasn’t enough. Though it wasn’t a place of orgies or bondage or chains and whips, Controlled Iris opened their doors for those who loved to watch, but not engage. Through glass windows or up on balconies looking into each room, those who entered could witness the carnal appetites of others. Patrons weren’t allowed to join in the sex, only to witness the bliss of voyeurism and the thrill of being a peeping Tom—or Thomasina in her case.

Though she had no trouble getting herself off, Controlled Iris pushed her harder and drove her faster to the edge of pleasure for when she returned home. Role playing and the uninhibited prowess of each person, men and women, showed her more about sex than she’d ever thought possible. One night of pleasure did not make her an expert in any way, and CI filled her curiosity.

She lifted her head when the bike came to a halt. So lost in her thoughts, she’d missed the short ride home. Drew shut off the engine. He slid off the bike, undid the helmet and handed it to him. He scooted back and got off.

“No need to stick around.”

“Not even a cup of coffee to repay me for going out of my way?”

Glory rolled her eyes and started up the porch steps. “You don’t drink coffee and I didn’t ask for the ride, you offered. Good night, Drew.” As if fire chased her, she hustled to her front door and stuck the key in the lock.

“We should talk, Glory,” his voice filled her left ear, and startled her. She whipped around, and found herself pressed against the door. Shit. She didn’t need to get trapped by him tonight.

“You’re too close. Back off. And we have nothing to discuss.” Body quivering from his closeness, she gazed up into his dark eyes. Lightheaded, Glory inhaled a shaky breath deep into her lungs. How evil was it to tempt her with such deliciousness when her heart and soul already ached from ripping emotions?

“Haven’t we done this Mr. and Mrs. Smith thing long enough?”

“Really, dude?” she scoffed. “That’s what you compare us to? Two gun-wielding married assassins who lie to one another? When have I ever lied to you?” Glory didn’t know if the comparison was accurate or not. They weren’t married, and they weren’t assassins either, but the sexual chemistry and tension between the Smith duo was always tumultuous and charged with chaos. She supposed there was justification for that comparison.

Drew crowded in on her, and she lifted her hands to his chest. Her knees shook as the heat of his skin beneath his shirt warmed her palms. The motherfucker didn’t play fair.

“I’m not the only one who gets turned on whenever we’re around each other. And you can’t deny it.”

Praise for Stirring Up Glory:
“a hot and sexy read.” ~ SJ Maylee, author of Assassins and Sweetheart series
“Do you like reading erotic romance with hot scorching scenes, then you should definitely check out Stirring Up Glory! You won’t be disappointed!” Nicole, Top 100 Amazon Reviewer

Buy Links:

Evernight Publishing – http://www.evernightpublishing.com/stirring-up-glory-by-kacey-hammell

Amazon US — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0757XMR54

Amazon Canada — https://www.amazon.ca/Stirring-Glory-Stirred-Love-Book-ebook/dp/B0757XMR54

Amazon UK — https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0757XMR54

Bookstrand – http://www.bookstrand.com/stirring-up-glory-mf

B&N Nook – https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/stirring-up-glory-kacey-hammell/1127041474

Kobo Store – https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/stirring-up-glory

iTunes – http://apple.co/2esBwNx

Smashwords — https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/745285

More Bookstores — https://books2read.com/u/bzaopE

Goodreads — https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36153588-stirring-up-glory

And of course, Book 1, Stirring Up Dirty is always available at all online bookstores.

https://kaceyhammell.com/bookshelf-2/stirred-by-love-series/stirring-up-dirty

About Kacey:
Avid Reader. Romance Author. Redhead…

Canadian-born author Kacey Hammell is definitely a book-a-holic. A romance reader from a young age, she fell in love with happily ever afters. These days, as a multi- published erotic romance author, she enjoys adding a lot of heat, sass, and emotion to the many genres she writes.

Mom of three, Kacey lives her own happily ever after with her perfect hero in Ontario, Canada.

Readers can find all my titles under the drop down “Bookshelf” menu on my website – www.kaceyhammell.com

Please consider following me on

Twitter – http://bit.ly/2cYpPM4

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New Release! Lost Faith, The Firm Series 1 by April Zyon @aprilzyon

Posted on July 21, 2017 by S.J. Maylee

About Lost Faith:

Gabriella Moreno was just a job, in and out to gain the objective, the death of her father. She turned out to be far more than that to Tobias Casey, however, from the moment he laid his hands on her too hot for words body.

Gabriella had just come home from a two-year stint abroad. The first night home she snuck out, never dreaming for even a moment anyone would be stupid enough to take her. Boy, was she wrong.

Faced with brutal truths, Gabbie followed her gut, and her heart, which, it seemed, all led to one place, Tobias. The heat of her homeland was nothing compared to the touch of this man. In his arms, she found something she had craved all her life, the other half of her soul.

Yet, how can she ignore the fact that the man who owns her heart is also the man who wants to take the last of her family?

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Find it here:

Kindle Unlimited for FREE!

Amazon US | Amazon CA | Amazon UK | Amazon AU

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Teaser

Another day, another dollar. Only these days, Tobias and his team were getting paid a hell of a lot more than they had been in the military. Now they could set their own fees for doing the jobs that no one else wanted to do, or maybe couldn’t do, since they did on rare occasion work for their government’s shadier sectors. But there was no oversight, no backseat driving, and they paid big to get shit done.

Their current operation was one they’d been working on for nearly three weeks now with no success. The first week had been recon, getting oriented, and making sure they had their exits memorized for when they achieved their strike.

The only thing was, as they’d discovered during week two, the target they were after didn’t ever leave his super secure compound. Not that Tobias could blame the guy. Their target was a dictator, an arms dealer, a drug dealer, and a mass murderer. There were people worldwide hoping that Tobias’ team finally managed to do what no one else had to date.

Now it was week three and they were still watching the compound to figure out their way in. Or as Tobias was beginning to believe would be easier, how to get the asshole to come out. They’d tried forty different ways to infiltrate the compound. None had worked. Which actually made sense, given the target, Juan Moreno, or Senor X as they referred to him over com, had hired himself an ex-Special Forces soldier to be the head of his security. Tran Quan was American born but had ties to the Yakuza. Extra weight to be brought to bear should it be requested.

Taking a small drink from his canteen, Tobias ignored the sweat trickling down his spine. His attention was locked on a small group of vehicles approaching the compound. Binoculars up, he brought the lead car into focus and easily recognized one of Moreno’s drivers. His attention moving to the second car, he was surprised to see Quan in the front passenger seat. The man was normally glued to Moreno’s side so to see him out without Moreno… this was big.

“Ripper, we have four cars approaching the compound. I need to know who exits the second car once they stop inside. Get pictures.”

“Roger that, Rogue.”

Ripper and Cherry were up on the mountain using some seriously high-powered tools to stare down into the compound. Their position was treacherous since they were, literally, dangling off the face of that mountain. One wrong move and they’d be headed straight down toward death.

“They’re turning toward the gate now. Not stopping either, they’ve been waved right through,” Tobias reported. The gates slid shut but not before he spotted a slender leg wearing a dainty shoe at the end slipping out of the door being opened by a guard. Instantly, he felt his gut clench in need to see the body went with that limb.

A soft whistle came through the com. “Damn, she’s fucking hot. Think she’s banging senor X?” Herc asked.

“Too young for him, you oaf,” Cherry said.

“Like that would stop the old fucker. We all know he doesn’t care about age. One of the reasons why we’re here to see him shot,” Herc told her. “Personally, it’s my only reason to see his head explode under the impact of my bullet.”

“Cut the chatter. Tell me you have photos for everyone that came in those vehicles.”

“Confirmed,” Ripper said.

“Good, get your asses down from there. Scout will be here to relieve me soon, then we need to get back and review everything.” Tobias was hopeful that somewhere in those photos he might find a way to pull Moreno away from his security blanket.

* * * *

“It’s his daughter, Gabriella Moreno.” Rainer said. His words had everyone’s attention. Tobias couldn’t figure out who was more shocked. Turning in his seat Rainer shook his head. “I had to dig, and dig deep. The old man has her buried.”

“Makes sense,” Winston muttered. “She’s his Achilles.”

He was right. “We need to keep eyes on her. If we get the opportunity, she’ll be the one we grab. I have a feeling that even with all his enemies gunning for him, he’ll do anything to protect her.” All they had to do was get their hands on her and use her to bait Senor X.

Picking up the picture Rainer had printed out Tobias stared at it. It wasn’t a shot from the compound but one he’d pulled from social media. Gabriella had her head tipped back, laughing at something or someone. She looked carefree and totally at ease. Young, too.

The young woman was just over five foot three inches but those come fuck me heels made her closer to five feet seven, she was thin but not waiflike like so many of the women today. Her hair however, was a riot of auburn red curls that seemed to have a mind of their own, and she didn’t bother trying to tame them. Which said something about the woman herself. She might not have the largest breasts that he had seen in his life but hers seemed to work her body perfectly, like a perfect handful, that distracted him completely.

“We need everything on her from birth until the moment she went through those gates, Rainer. Leave no stone unturned. I think we’ve just found our hot button for daddy Moreno. We grab her and he’ll deliver himself right to us.”

“You sure you want to do that, boss?” Cherilyn asked. At his sharp look, she held up her hands. “I’m down with it, but even if she does leave the compound, you know she’ll have a taskforce worth of guards with her. No way is Moreno letting her out in this country without protection up the ass.”

“And we’ll be ready for that. Our best shot will be if she goes into the city. It’ll allow us to blend in and when the time’s right, grab her up.” At Cherilyn’s snort, Tobias turned a glare on her. “What?”

“Dude, no offense or nothing, but you do not blend.”

Rainer was shaking his head. “I have to agree with her, boss. You tend to stick out.”

“I can blend just fine, I’ll have you know.”

“You keep thinking that. In the meantime, I think I’ll update the other boys and we can add their hilarity to the vote count against you.” Cherilyn patted his chest, walked past, and promptly burst out in laughter.

“I can and will fire your ass,” Tobias called after her.

“No, you won’t,” she bellowed back.

No, he wouldn’t, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t think about it, in great detail.

New Release! Viktor, Happy Evil After: Book One by Sarah Marsh @SM_fiction

Posted on July 20, 2017 by S.J. Maylee

Viktor

Happy Evil After: Book One

By Sarah Marsh

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Cover Art: Jay Aheer

When the heroes have reputations like these, who needs a villain?

Blurb:

Have you ever read a fairy tale and wondered why the goody two-shoe Princes and Princesses were always the ones who got their happy endings?

Pandora is a Fairy Godmother who’s never fit in with her own people. Only she has the power…and the attitude, to step in and help those who others have decided aren’t worthy of a happy ending. How hard could it be to manipulate some of the most feared beings in their world?

Viktor has spent his entire un-dead life being the bogey man to the paranormal community and that’s the way he wants to keep it….with everyone else far away from him. When the opportunity arises to take his revenge on his nemesis, he can’t resist—even if it means risking his reputation and rescuing the damsel in distress.

Halle never expected to find herself in need of a savior, especially one with a reputation like Viktor’s. But she’s used to listening to her instincts and her cat trusts the strange woman who pops up and claims to have some solutions.

If a girl can’t trust her own Fairy Godmother, then what is this world coming to?

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amzn.com/B0731FTJ8H

Evernight: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/viktor-by-sarah-marsh/

Excerpt:

“I mean you no harm, lady. You can go. I’m only here for what’s in the car,” he said slowly walking towards her. She was a cute little thing, all soft curves with golden skin and hair.

“Ummm, yeah, about that … I’m what’s in the car, Mr. Krescech. You have to take me with you out of here,” she said almost nervously, those big green eyes pleading with him.

Clearly, she was also insane. What was with the women he was running into this week? Viktor had had more than his fair share of groupies throwing themselves at him in the bars, wanting to take a walk on the wild side for a few hours, but this wholesome little beauty certainly didn’t look like the type, so he had no idea exactly what she was asking him for.

“I don’t think so,” he said, moving past her towards the open back door to search the car.

“Seriously, there’s nothing else in the car. They were taking me from my family and my pard to be married to Conrad. I have to go with you to get away from him,” she continued, putting her tiny little hands on her very curvy hips in a way that distracted him far more than it should have.

Interesting, so this little number was a leopard shifter? Viktor hadn’t really had any interaction with the pard in this country, but by reputation, they were a good lot. Why on Earth would she agree to marry Conrad?

“I don’t rescue damsels in distress. I eat them,” he said with a flash of fang. “So run along, little kitten.”

The tiny spitfire threw her hands dramatically up in the air and sighed loudly.

“You just saved me from a life of baby-making slavery. Aren’t you supposed to whisk me away to your super-secret villain lair and ravish me? Sheesh, where’s your follow-through?”

Viktor just stood there and stared at her for a moment. He didn’t know whether to laugh at her ridiculous statement or take her up on her offer and bend her over right here on the trunk of Conrad’s car. He was extremely turned on by the fact that she didn’t seem the least bit afraid of him. He’d always tried to pretend that his reputation in the paranormal community pleased him, that it helped him by keeping the rabble away. But deep down it bothered him that everyone always thought the worst of him. His honor was just yet another thing that Melisandre and Conrad had stolen from him when they took his mortality.

“Don’t you know who I am, woman?” he finally said as she just stood there looking at him expectantly.

“Yes, I know who you are. Who else is capable of keeping me out of Conrad’s douchy hands?” she said sounding a little impatient.

“Don’t you have a family you can go to?” he asked, still wondering why he was even standing here talking to her.

Well, that wasn’t entirely true. Once she’d said the word “slavery” he knew he couldn’t leave her to Conrad’s tender mercies. Viktor knew more about slavery than he ever wanted to, and no being should ever be held against their will. That and he had seen firsthand what Conrad enjoyed doing to women. It still sickened him to think back to the horrors he’d had to witness as Melisandre’s pet.

“If I go back to my family they’d just have to hand me right back over to him again. My pard owes him a blood debt, and I am the payment. I need this to look like Conrad’s men lost me in the confrontation with you. This needs to be his fault, as otherwise, it will start a war between my family and his coven,” she said, stepping ever closer.

She stood so close now that Viktor could smell the strawberry and coconut scent of her shampoo. Good Gods, she smells good enough to eat.

“Why would you think that I should care whether or not this starts a war for your people? I will not be fighting in it,” he answered, trying to sound like he didn’t care one way or another.

“Because I think that you hate Conrad just as much, if not more than I do, and there’s nothing he wants more than to possess me,” she answered quietly, her huge green eyes staring right into his grey ones.

She was right of course. There was no one on this Earth that he hated as much as he hated Conrad. That’s what he told himself anyway when he ultimately decided he would take the girl with him—whether it was the whole truth about his motivations or not.

“First, tell me how your pard was thoughtless enough to enter into a blood debt with a killer like Conrad?”

“It’s not like we had any choice. My father was jumped one night by a bunch of rogues, and Conrad just happened to be there to offer his assistance … for a price.”

The venom in her voice clearly stated that she suspected they’d been set up. The rogues were most likely paid to attack by Conrad himself. It was a trick the coward had used over and over again.

“Fine,” he said with a sigh. “You can come with me, but just until we find somewhere to stash you that Conrad cannot reach you.”

“Thank you!” she said with a squeal just before she reached up and hugged him before he could stop her. “I’m Halle, by the way.”

Clearly, his reputation was never going to recover from this if anyone saw him being hugged in the alley, but with her luscious frame leaning against his, smelling so sweet, he had a difficult time finding a reason to care.

Author Bio:

Sarah Marsh was born in British Columbia where she still lives, she has only recently began her writing career finding it the perfect outlet for taking the edge off a nine to five office job. She’s been a science fiction and romance junkie for years and when her imagination started to take the characters she’d read about even further in their adventures she decided to try writing something of her own.

Sarah’s also a former pastry chef and spends a lot of time cooking and baking for friends and family as well as painting and knitting. Her biggest weaknesses are animals of any kind…she even loves the ones that wake you up at four in the morning because they can almost see the bottom of their food dish.

When it comes to life in general she’s a big believer that laughter is the best medicine and that there’s no such thing as too much love, which is why she’s such a sucker for a happy ending.

Author page links:

Blog: http://sarahmarshfiction.com/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/sarahmarshfiction/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SM_fiction

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarah_marsh_fiction/

Facebook Street Team link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/955387561187276/

Newsletter sign up: http://eepurl.com/b50yvX

Bookstrand: http://www.bookstrand.com/sarah-marsh

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/sarahmarshfiction

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14226436.Sarah_Marsh

Evernight Publishing: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/sarah-marsh/

New Release! Winning the Campaign Manager by Lucy Felthouse @cw1985 #shifter

Posted on July 11, 2017 by S.J. Maylee

Blurb:

Politics has never been so sexy!

Cade Avery is running for a position on his local county council. He’s extremely good at what he does and is a valuable asset to his community. The trouble is, he upsets people, says the wrong things, and rides rough-shod over other people’s plans and ideas. His assistant, Mary, eager to improve Cade’s public image, hires him a campaign manager.

Quentin Rayworth is thrilled to be working with such a formidable public figure. It’ll be a challenge, but he’s confident he can help Cade to win the election, and knows that the achievement will look impressive on his CV.

It’s soon clear that the two men are set to be an excellent team. That is, until Cade’s werewolf makes its intentions known—in Quentin, it has found its mate, and it will not rest until he has claimed him. But can Cade—and his wolf—win over the campaign manager?

Buy links (other retailers coming soon):

Amazon (universal link): http://mybook.to/WTCM

Evernight Publishing: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/winning-the-campaign-manager-by-lucy-felthouse/

BookStrand: http://www.bookstrand.com/winning-the-campaign-manager-mm

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35581577-winning-the-campaign-manager

*****

Excerpt:

“You’ve done what?” Cade Avery yelled, fixing his long-time friend and colleague, Mary Summers, with a glare. He slammed his hands down on his desk, making a bunch of pens jump and rattle, and causing water to splash over the side of his glass. “Why the hell would you do such a thing?”

Mary, by now used to Cade’s temper and frequent outbursts, didn’t flinch. Standing firm on the other side of his desk, she calmly stated, “You heard me, Cade. I’ve appointed you a campaign manager. And as for the why, I think it’s pretty damn obvious.”

“Not to me,” he grumbled, snatching a handful of tissues from the box in his top drawer and swiping irritably at the liquid he’d spilled. “Seems like an unnecessary expense.”

With a heavy sigh, Mary replied, “Do you want to win this bloody election or not?”

“Yes, of course I do. What sort of a stupid question is that?”

“Well then, you need a campaign manager. The rest of the team and I already have enough on our plates. We can’t handle that side of things, too. Not to mention the fact that you really need someone with … expertise … in that department. Someone who can boost your public image, make you more likeable … you know, so people will actually vote for you.”

Screwing up the wad of soggy tissue and dumping it in the wastebasket beside him, Cade snapped his gaze to Mary. She stood, the ever-present iPad clutched against her chest, looking as determined and immovable as a five-feet-one, slim thirty-five-year-old was ever going to get.

He sat back in his chair and folded his arms. “What’s wrong with my public image?”

Rolling her eyes heavenward, her body tensing, Mary’s cool demeanor actually looked on the verge of cracking. Taking a deep breath and releasing it, she looked back at him. “Give me strength, Cade. Are you fucking serious?”

She may have used the deep breath and probably a considerable amount of willpower to dampen down her physical reaction to his question, but her actual words gave her true state of mind away. As a rule, the word “bloody” was as bad as it got for Mary. To have enticed a “fucking” out of her, and within the same conversation, no less, meant she was in real danger of losing her temper with him. And despite her diminutive frame and usually chilled-out personality—especially in comparison with his huge frame and fiery personality—when she did lose it, she was utterly terrifying. Possibly the fact that she rarely got angry was what made it so potent when she did. Mary’s ire could turn even the thickest-skinned person into a blubbering wreck.

“Mary,” he cooed, backtracking quickly, “come on, sit down. Why do you always insist on standing up in here?”

“Because, unless we’re having a meeting, I don’t generally need to stay long. I normally impart my information, you give your feedback, and we get on with our day.” She shifted restlessly and narrowed her eyes. “But today, it seems, you’re having a bit of a brain fart. Do I really need to spell it out for you?”

Raising his eyebrows at her increasing irritation, and wondering if there was something going on in her private life that was making her so touchy, he nodded. “Yes, I really think you do.”

A few seconds of silence passed, in which Mary again seemed to be getting a grip on her irritation. She finally said, “All right. But don’t forget; you asked for it.”

*****

Author Bio:

Lucy Felthouse is the award-winning author of erotic romance novels Stately Pleasures (named in the top 5 of Cliterati.co.uk’s 100 Modern Erotic Classics That You’ve Never Heard Of, and an Amazon bestseller), Eyes Wide Open (winner of the Love Romances Café’s Best Ménage Book 2015 award, and an Amazon bestseller), The Persecution of the Wolves and Hiding in Plain Sight. Including novels, short stories and novellas, she has over 160 publications to her name. She owns Erotica For All, and is one eighth of The Brit Babes. Find out more about her writing at http://lucyfelthouse.co.uk, or on Twitter or Facebook. Sign up for automatic updates on Amazon or BookBub. Subscribe to her newsletter and get a free eBook: http://www.subscribepage.com/lfnewsletter

New Release! Break Me by Elyzabeth M. VaLey @ElyzabethVaLey #darkromance

Posted on July 10, 2017 by S.J. Maylee

Thank you for having me on your blog today with my new release, Break Me.

Break me is a dark, twisted, erotic romance, which was fascinating to write. Among other things, one of the things I enjoyed the most while crafting this story was digging deep and uncovering each of the layers that made up both Grisha and Ayla’s personalities.

And I must tell you, there’s more than meets the eye when it comes to those two. 😉

I hope you enjoy reading the story as much as I did writing it.

The monster lay dormant, until it saw her…

Every few years, the beast within Grisha Vasiliev rouses, clamoring for blood. When he sees Ayla Clark dancing, her movements exuding grace, passion and joy, he knows he must have her.

Grisha kidnaps Ayla expecting the usual: resistance, tears, pleas for mercy. But when Ayla breaks the mold, his whole world spirals out of control and feelings he thought he could never have again resurface.

He thought she was perfect, but she’s the broken doll on the shelf.

The last thing Ayla Clark remembers is celebrating her performance as Giselle and flirting with the handsome Grisha Vasiliev, the owner of one of the most prestigious ballet companies in the country. Now, she’s tied up and at his mercy, begging for more of his attention, while fighting to keep her own secrets buried in the dark.

Be Warned: BDSM, knife play, whipping

Available at:

Evernight Publishing

Amazon.com

Amazon.co.uk

Bookstrand

And More!

Excerpt:

Ayla turned on her heel and raced out the door. Her bare feet slapped against the cool floor almost painfully. The glass shard cut into her hand but she didn’t dare release it yet. Lights blinked on as she ran down the hall and up a set of stairs. Tripping, she dropped her primitive weapon.

“Fuck.”

She didn’t stop to pick it up but continued until the top. She clutched her stomach. It couldn’t be. A thick metal door loomed before her. She lunged at it, screaming and crying, shouting for help, but it didn’t budge.

“Please,” she whimpered.

“You’re going to hurt yourself. The door is pure steel, locked with a key and an electronic panel.”

She spun to face Grisha. He stood a few steps behind her, arms crossed over his chest, eyes gleaming with predatory intent. Her shoulders slumped. A lump formed in her throat.

“No. Please, Grisha. Let me go.”

“I can’t do that.”

“Why? You’re rich, powerful. You can have anything you want. Why?” she insisted. “I swear I won’t say anything. This never happened.”

“That isn’t the way this works, sweetheart.”

“Please, Grisha.”

Her knees gave out and she slid to the floor. Her head spun. None of this made any sense. Grisha towered over her. Tears gathered behind her lids. She inched forward, hugging his left leg.

“I beg you.”

Grisha lay his hand on her head. She looked up at him. The power of his gaze undid the well of emotions within her. She would never get out of here. Sobs racked her body. She clung to him, beseeching him.

“I’m sorry, sweetheart.”

He settled on the floor next to her and pulled her onto his lap. Ayla’s arms wrapped around his neck naturally. He caressed her back in soothing circles. She burrowed her face into the collar of his shirt, his fresh, woodsy essence entering her system. Familiar. Welcoming. Slowly, her tears ebbed replaced by confusion. Why did he comfort her?

“What are you going to do to me?” she whispered.

He caught her chin. His gaze danced over her face for an instant. His brow furrowed. The blue in his eyes darkened to midnight depths. Then his lips were on her, pressing, claiming, sparking her body alive. Her brain shut down. His tongue met hers and she opened up, eager to taste more. He demanded and she willingly gave.

Ayla was his to do as he pleased. His hands touched her everywhere, leaving behind a trail of burning need. Liquid gathered at the apex between her thighs. Her clit throbbed.

Grisha cupped her swollen breast, squeezing the turgid nub between his fingers. She moaned. He bent his head and took her nipple in his mouth, hungrily sucking. She arched, whimpering. His heavy hand slid across her thigh to her pussy. Relentless fingers probed her entrance.

“You’re soaked.” He groaned.

She turned her head, embarrassed. Grisha thrust a digit into her. Ayla sucked in air.

“You like this. You want this,” he said, his voice husky and gritty.

“Yes,” she whispered.

“You enjoy this,” he whispered, pushing another finger into her, slowly pumping them. She mewled.

“My sweet little dancer wants my cock in her cunt, doesn’t she?”

She shook her head.

“No? That’s not what this tells me.” He curled his finger across her G-spot and began to massage it. She shook from head to toe.

“Please.”

“What is it, sweetheart? Want more?”

Three fingers rubbed her. The pressure increased. Ayla threw back her head. Her hips swayed involuntarily. His strokes turned quick and short. Sweat trickled down her back.

“Grisha,” she panted.

“You’re going to come for me, Ayla, and you’re going to do it now.”

About Elyzabeth M. VaLey

Elyzabeth M. VaLey is a writer of sizzling, sexy romance who firmly believes in happy ever after. From paranormal to contemporary, fantasy, or historical, she enjoys exploring her characters’ darker side and writing stories about tortured heroes, strong heroines, and all that comes between them and their love.

When she’s not writing, she can be found walking in the Spanish countryside with her black Lab, exploring castles, or enjoying some tapas with her friends.

Follow her at:

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