Inside Look with Erin Leaf author of Mr. Rockstar

I have a special guest today, fellow Evernight Publishing author, Erin Leaf. She’s answered several questions for me and she’s sharing from her new release, Mr. Rockstar. Enjoy.

click the logo to see all the Inside Looks

Okay, Erin, get comfortable. Picture your favorite place in the world. Now, can you tell us a little bit about the place you’ve pictured?

My favorite place, hmm… When my two boys were little, it used to be an imaginary place called Alone and Quiet. Now it’s a gorgeous lookout on a hiking trail I’ve been going to lately. It’s got great views and, incidentally, happens to be both solitary and silent. Coincidence? I think not…

How lovely. There’s a trail here that I adore. It’s not far from the city, but whenever I’m there I feel at peace. I’m glad you have a spot too. We’ll have to share pictures some time. When you are not writing what are your favorite hobbies?

I love to hike. The more isolated the area the better, though I have to admit, the last hike included a bit more rock scrambling than I expected. I was super sore for a week. My other favorite hobby is ballroom dancing. My husband and I have been doing it for years. It kind of feels like flying with your eyes closed: scary and thrilling at the same time.

I’m impressed, Erin. Those are hobbies to be proud of for sure. My husband and I took waltz lessons before we got married. Our first dance was pretty sweet. Of course, we’ve forgotten all we’ve learned, lol. What turns you on creatively?

Music. A really good movie or a really good book. I’m rather fond of superhero stories and apocalyptic tales, don’t know why. I think it might have been all those years as a girl wishing for the ability to light things on fire with my brain. 😉

What is your greatest fear?

That someone I love will be injured or pass away.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Most people will probably say: “Oh, my car, or that sauna I had installed last year.” When I think about our family budget, though, by far most of the money goes to food. I’m a bit of a foodie. I don’t eat fake anything. I adore a perfect meal and I tend to cook a lot.

I want to come eat at your house. 😀 What is the one thing you do after finishing a story?

Start the next story! Sometimes I drag my husband out for dinner, too.

Tell us a bit about the projects you are working on now?

My latest release is a really fun book about a shy woman who needs a hero to come rescue her from the horror of attending a wedding all by herself. Who is this sexy man? Her brother’s best friend, rocker Vin Clementine. Mr. Rockstar was definitely one of my favorite books to write. It has humor and love and sexy-times as well as some pretty difficult decision making on the part of the heroine.

My latest work-in-progress is Angel’s Power, the second in a book about angel shifters. Angel’s Honor is set to be released in November, so I’d like to get the sequel ready to go so no one has to wait for too long to find out the next part of the story (but don’t worry, I don’t write cliffhangers).

My other work-in-progress is an intense zombie apocalypse story. The three main characters are fighting for their lives right now. I can’t wait to see what happens next!

Fascinating! I love your variety, Erin. This was fun. Thank you for playing along. Okay, I want to hear more about Mr. Rockstar.

********

Mr. Rockstar cover - click to see on GoodreadsMr. Rockstar by Erin M. Leaf now available!

Contemporary, Erotic Romance, Romantic Suspense, Rubenesque, MF

Word Count: 42,300

Heat Level 4

Published By: Evernight Publishing

ISBN: 9781771305945

An Evernight Editor’s Pick!

Description:

Isabelle’s best friend is getting married and guess who’s the maid-of-honor?

Going to the wedding alone isn’t an option, so when Isabelle’s brother sends his buddy to her rescue, she can hardly believe who it is: rocker Marvin Clementine! He shows up at her door incognito, but nothing can hide the sexy smile that melts her spine.

At the wedding, he is the perfect gentleman right up until Isabelle’s ex-boyfriend attacks him. When Marvin punches him in the nose, taking him down with one swing, what can Isabelle do except take Mr. Rockstar home and kiss his wounds until he’s better?

Of course, one night of bliss isn’t enough for her to overcome her fears. Marvin’s celebrity lifestyle freaks her out, and it would be crazy to move to L.A., right? Especially for someone as shy as Isabelle. Unfortunately, she’s pretty sure Marvin is her one true love…

Be Warned: anal sex, sex toys, knife play

________________

Where to Buy: 

________________

Author Details:

Erin M. Leaf is a romance novel devotee, the steamier the better, with a specialty in edgy erotic tension. She also writes romance as Marie E. Blossom.

website: http://erinmleaf.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/erinmleaf

Twitter: @erinmleaf

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4355929.Erin_M_Leaf

Evernight: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/erin-m-leaf/

________________

Mr. Rockstar Excerpt:

He shrugged off his jacket and hung it from the hook on the back of her door. “I’m fine.”

“I just want to make sure it won’t get infected,” she said, unnerved by how he seemed to dominate her bathroom. She had flowers on the sink in a vase and fluffy pink towels and Marvin was tall, muscular, and very masculine against all the pastels. He flashed her a smile and sat down, unbuttoning his cuffs. The tattoo on his left arm peeked out as he moved, reminding Isabelle that he wasn’t just Marvin. He was also Vin, famous rocker. Bad boy. Suddenly, she felt like she couldn’t get enough air into her lungs.

He didn’t seem to notice her fascination with his skin as he casually shoved his sleeves up his arms. His tie was already loosened, but he pulled the knot out and undid another button. Isabelle stared for a moment, mesmerized by the soft-looking hair peeking through the open top of his shirt. His arm was exposed enough now that she could see his mourning doves tattoo up close. Their sad eyes stared out at her and she shook herself a little, trying to break the spell his physical presence had cast over her.

“Okay, I’m ready,” he said, voice low and sexy and a little bit amused.

Isabelle opened the medicine cabinet. “Yes. Okay.” She pulled out some gauze and disinfectant. “This may sting a little.” She wet the gauze and brought it to his cheek, blotting at the cut. It was mostly clean, thankfully. He didn’t wince when she patted his skin. Instead, his green eyes stared at her, the pupils dark and mysterious. Her hand began to tremble. The heat from his body made the hair on her arms stand up.

“Belle,” he said. “I’m fine.” He cupped a hand around her wrist delicately, the thumb rubbing gently along her pulse point. “It’s okay.”

And just like that, all the feelings she’d been so desperately suppressing for the past day roared up, like someone had just turned up the volume on the radio. His finger on her wrist made her hyper-aware of him: his size, his strength, his virility as he sat in her girly bathroom without complaint. Her face went hot and she dropped the gauze to the floor. Even with the bruise and cut on his face, he was gorgeous.

“This is crazy,” she whispered as he tugged her down. She tumbled onto his lap, wedged between the tub and the sink, legs akimbo.

“I don’t care,” he murmured against her mouth.

She kissed him, unable to stop herself. He smelled like antiseptic and himself, a potent combination that made no sense. He tugged more strongly and she fell against his chest, magenta tulle foaming around them both. He kissed her and she let him, hopeless to resist when his hands slid up her back and splayed across her bare shoulders.

“Belle, you have the most perfect name,” he said, nipping her collarbone.

She shivered. “You’re crazy.”

He chuckled. “If I’m crazy, so are you.”

She pulled back, confused, but then he very deliberately slid his hands around the front of her dress and dipped the tips of his fingers into her bodice, teasing. It wasn’t enough. It wasn’t nearly enough.

“Let me make love to you,” he said, hands moving, but never where she wanted them to go. Her breasts ached.

She bit her lip, breathing faster. The corner of the bathroom vanity was cutting into her arm and her legs were cramped as they tried to fit into the small space. Was she really considering this? You don’t have to marry the guy, a little voice inside her head said. Marvin kissed her shoulder, smiling coaxingly at her.

“Okay,” she finally said, not sure if she was entirely sane anymore. Arousal and need had taken over her body. She realized she’d felt this way since the beginning, when he’d first appeared on her doorstep yesterday afternoon. Was it only yesterday that I met him for the first time? It seemed like much longer than that. She’d denied her feelings, not wanting to admit her attraction to him. Now that she’d gotten to know him a little, it was impossible to ignore.

“Okay,” he said back to her, smiling. To her dismay, he took his hands out of her dress. Just when she was going to protest, he slid them snugly under her ass and stood up, lifting her with no apparent trouble.

“Oh my God, Marvin! You’re going to hurt yourself,” she cried, hands wrapping around his shoulders. The muscles under her palms bulged, his thin shirt no barrier.

He laughed. “You’re not nearly large enough to give me trouble.” He walked out of the bathroom and into her bedroom. “Wrap your legs around me,” he said. She did as he asked, heart pounding when the position pulled her dress up her thighs.

I shouldn’t be doing this, she told herself as he walked, the excess fabric of her dress bunching up between them. He’s going back to L.A. tomorrow. She didn’t let go, however. I want this, she admitted when he kissed her again, somewhat shocked at herself. I want him. The light near the window lit the bedroom with a soft glow, somewhat disguising the clothes strewn all over the place. Marvin pulled back from her mouth and glanced around, quirking an eyebrow at her.

She blushed, squirming against him, then froze when his erection slotted right up against her pussy. “I didn’t have time to clean up,” she muttered, too embarrassed to look him in the eyes. His cock pressed right against her clit. Every time he shifted his weight, it shoved against her deliciously. She tried to keep still, but couldn’t. He felt so freaking good.

He tilted his face toward her, still seemingly unperturbed to be holding her in midair, and kissed under her ear. “I don’t give a shit about your room.”

Don’t Miss The Writers Helping Writers AMAZING RACE!

Angela Ackerman & Becca Puglisi at Writers Helping Writers (formerly The Bookshelf Muse) have added two more books to their Descriptive Thesaurus Collection: The Positive Trait Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Attributes and The Negative Trait Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Flaws. To celebrate, they are hosting a race, and not just any old race, either. It’s the…

Writing is hard, isn’t it? Create the perfect hook. Make your first page compelling. Craft an amazing 25 word pitch. Knock out a query that will blow an agent’s mind. On and on it goes. And sometimes, well, you just wish someone would help.

WISH NO MORE!

From October 21st until October 27th, Writers Helping Writers is posting an OPEN CALL for writers. You can fill out a form, requesting help with critiques, book visibility, social media sharing, blog diagnostics, advice and more.

An army of Amazing Racers are standing by (ME INCLUDED!) waiting to help with your submissions. How many people can we help in a week? Let’s find out! Did I mention there are Celebrity Racers too–amazing authors and editors who know their way around a first page. Maybe one of them will pick your submission to help with!

Each day this week, there’s an AMAZING giveaway, too. So stop in at Angela & Becca’s new Writers Helping Writers website and find out how to take advantage of this unique, pay-it-forward event for writers. I’ll see you there!

Inside Look with Jamallah Bergman author of Renzo

Please help me welcome Jamallah Bergman, writer of many contemporary, erotica, and interracial romances. I’ve gotten her to open up and share several things with us. Below, you’ll also find details on Renzo, The Ciprianos of Kellington book one and some information on book two as well. Enjoy.

click to see all the Inside Looks

Let’s start with the basics. Tell us about yourself: Who are you and why did you start writing?

Well my name is Jamallah Bergman and I write mainly interracial/multicultural romance, sometimes Contemporary or Erotic. I was born in Jamaica Queens New York but now reside in Atlanta Georgia with my teenage daughter. I started writing because like most writers, I had a story that needed to be told that could be related to what other people are struggling with right now.

Yes, I understand that reasoning. I definitely have stories to tell. 🙂 When you are not writing what are your favorite hobbies?

Well I like to go thrift shopping and I like to find cookbooks or Cobalt Blue glass items that I don’t have just yet. I love collecting those things most of all.

I bet you have a beautiful collection. Can you tell us about your challenges in getting your first book published?

Well that story is interesting. For a number of years, I had wrote my 1st book “If…Only You Knew” but of course I would send out query letters to publisher after publisher only to get a rejection letter saying ‘It’s too short’ or that ‘It’s not what we are looking for’. Well I had been going on this website called ‘Hub Pages’ where people who loved to write would showcase their work or their current WIP they were working on. Either that or they would write an article about a current event. This is where I met my good friend Mike Arsuaga, who is a publisher author that writes on his own as well as with his wife Cynthia, well I was telling him about my problem with getting this story I wrote out. He told me that the company he publishes for, which is who I publish with right now Secret Cravings Publishing, that they took submission for ebooks, which was something that I was new to because I had never heard of a ebook before. So he gave me the link to the website to check out and I did just that. After a day or so, I decided to send in my 1st book for submission…..about a month later, I got a email and contract saying that they loved my story and wanted to publish it. That was how my first book got published and I always make sure to let others know about how I thank Mike daily for helping me getting with my publisher.

Can you tell us about a criticism you’ve received that pushed you into a better writing place?

Well like most authors, I’ve gotten criticism over some of the things I’ve written so far. Most have been good and some have been bad and others have been downright disheartening to even want to read the review that was posted. True not everyone will like what you have written but of course that just makes me want to keep writing even more because for those that don’t like it, there are some that do enjoy my work and for those people that do, I will continue writing no matter what.

You make your fans very happy with that reasoning. 🙂 Which one of your characters would you most like to meet in real life?

I would have to say Brooke Langley from “The Lady of Gladstone Manor” is probably more like me than anything of the characters I’ve written even though most of the female characters are more a part of me than anything. Brooke has lived a sheltered life, which was something like what I had been dealing with for most of my life due to illness and being ashamed of my appearance. Like Brooke she has lived mostly within her family home, not having the love that she had often craved from another man except her own father who had passed away years ago.

Brooke is much like me for I have struggle throughout life to come out on top.

She sounds like a fascinating character. I’d like to meet her too. What turns you on creatively?

For me is finding a topic that peaks my interest and makes me want to write about it. I often come across things that will make me want to write about it. Whether it’s one of my favorite movies (which is how I came up with my book “The Admission”) or just a random topic that I remembered from some other thing I had heard about (which is how “Special Kind of Woman” came about) or a picture of a very handsome man (which is where my current series “The Ciprianos of Kellington” came about) or just something that is part of our daily life that we would never think of happening before (which is how I came up with “Sorry…Wrong Number”). Anything around me or anything that I’ve had to deal with peaks my creative interest.

What is your greatest fear?

My greatest fear….hmmmm…getting writers block that last for a very long time.

Ugh! Don’t even think it, lol. What is your greatest extravagance?

I really don’t have one….except when I get a sweet tooth moment and I have to satisfy the craving 🙂

What is your favorite music (genre/artist/album/song)?

I love music from the 70’s, 80’s & 90’s. I play a lot of the songs on Youtube when I am writing so it usually sets the mood for me.

What is the one thing you do after finishing a story?

I make sure everything with it is alright and then afterwards I take a deep sigh of relief and figure out what I plan on writing next.

Tell us a bit about the projects you are working on now?

Simone_TheCiprianos_MEDRight now I am working on the 2nd book in my ‘Ciprianos of Kellington’ Series called “Simone”. I really love this story because it’s not only beautiful but it’s also sweet and tells the story of the second brother Simone and that of the woman in his life Delia. I won’t go into great detail about this story but it will be something that I know my readers have been waiting for since they have fallen in love with my 1st book ‘Renzo’.

Now Renzo I had wonderful time writing about. He’s the oldest brother and like most he’s been through a lot in his life. Dealing with the divorce and a crazy ex-wife, also being the owner of two very prosperous restaurants but the one thing he hasn’t been able to find in life is love. He could have any woman he wanted but of course he isn’t into one night stands like he was back when he was younger. Now that he’s older, he only wants to find the love that he thought that he was going to have with his ex. He soon finds it in the owner of the antique shop down the street, Jaslyn Whitman.

I am also working on a WIP that I am keeping totally TOP SECRET as of now. I don’t plan on saying a thing about it until I have things finalized for sure.

BLURB:

Renzo_MEDRenzo, Simone, Gianni and Federico Cipriano

Each brother was thriving on their own working in what they were best in doing.

But it’s their mother’s wish for her son’s to find love and happiness like she had with their father, since they have not only been well known for their work ethics but also for their sexual conquest.

Watch as the Cipriano brothers of Kellington try and find love in probably some of the most unlikely of places. Along the way you’ll meet some of the women who take their hearts as well as their minds on a whirlwind ride like no other.

Renzo, the oldest Cipriano brother, lives a life that consists of working at his restaurants, dealing with customers as well as with a persistently aggravating ex-wife. He never had the chance to find the one thing that eluded him the most…..love.

That was until he walked into her store that rainy afternoon…..

Jaslyn Whitman, owner of Timeless Treasure Antiques, lives for a sale as well as making other people happy with the things she has in her shop. Being the ‘new girl in town’, she of course has been on the radar of some men. But she mainly tries to put work over dating men whose only intentions are to get her into bed.

Who thought tall dark and handsome would walk through her door?

Once these two meet, sparks immediately fly…for Renzo. Jaslyn however isn’t ready to deal with what would happen if she got involved with a Cipriano man. It’s up to Renzo however to show Jaslyn that there is more to him than just rumors and lies.

STORY EXCERPT:

It had been three days since Renzo sent the flowers to Jaslyn. He had yet to hear one word from her. He thought she would have at least called or come by the restaurant or something. But he got nothing at all and it irked him. Despite being Sunday, he didn’t have much to do before the restaurant opened, so he decided to go by her store. When he walked inside, the first thing he noticed were the flowers sitting on the table where she had sat with his mother. He smiled.

“Hello?”

Looking to where the voice came from, he saw her walking from the back with a clipboard in her hands and a smile on her pretty face. “Why hello there, Mr. Cipriano, how are you today?”

Even her smile made his heart skip a beat. She was strikingly beautiful even wearing a simple, royal purple dress with a wide belt accenting her hips. Her long legs went on for days tucked inside a pair of brown suede boots that went to her knees. Renzo needed to say something before he ended up looking like a goofball in front of this woman. “Please call me Renzo, Ms. Whitman.”

“And you can call me Jaslyn. I’m sorry I haven’t been able to thank you for the flowers. They were lovely.”

“I’m glad you liked them. As long as my mom is happy then I am happy.”

“I’m the same with mine as well. So what can I do you for today?”

Now what Einstein? What are you going to tell her your reason for being here is? You should have thought of something before you walked in here, stupid. Take a deep breath and just figure out something. “I came to find something for my living room.”

“Oh, well are you looking for some type of furniture or just an accent piece?” Those hazel eyes of hers twinkled at him. God, he could stare at them for days. But he could see by the look in her eyes, she was waiting for his answer.

“I’m looking for an accent piece for my living room. Like a new lamp, vase, or something different or maybe something for my office.”

“Well, come with me and I will show you some pieces that you might like.” As he followed her through rows of pieces of furniture, Renzo released a huge sigh of relief. She showed him several pieces, all of which were beautiful, but he hadn’t a clue on what he wanted to pick. “Your mother told me that you weren’t accustomed to shopping for things,” said Jaslyn.

“Yeah, my ex took most of the stuff in the divorce. I ended up getting a designer friend to redo everything in my place. But I would like to get a vase or another lamp for my office.”

“Now a desk lamp, I have some of those around here. Well, I do have one around here somewhere. I had three of them, actually, if I remember. Oh here they are…over on this desk here. I also have one on that table right there and another on that mahogany desk.” She pointed over toward them as he saw the three in question.

They were all beautiful pieces in their own right, yet he still had a hard time figuring out which one he wanted to get. “Pick one.”

“What?”

“Pick one out. I told you I wasn’t good at picking out furniture and stuff. Now anything dealing with food I’m all good. But interior stuff like this, I’m totally clueless.”

She laughed. “It’s unusual I get to pick out a piece. I mean sure I give people my input on certain items we have here, but most of the time my customers know what they want.”

If she only knew what I really wanted, Renzo thought as she picked up a desk lamp with a beautiful blue lampshade. “I like this one because it’s stained glass. This is an antique banker’s desk lamp. I like the pretty flowers and the dragonfly…see. The blue is an unusual color.” She walked over to him with lamp in hand. He should have been looking at the lamp, but Renzo was too busy looking at her beautiful hair. He had a sudden urge to touch it, run his fingers through it and take a deep whiff to see just how it smelled.

Steady, old man, easy before you do something stupid.

“Do you think this will look nice on your desk?” she asked.

“Since it’s as lovely as you, Jaslyn, it will make a nice addition to my office,” he said watching a silly smirk spread across her lips turn into a cute giggle.

“I’m sorry for giggling. Let’s go up front and I’ll write you up a ticket.” She walked away leaving him there as he smacked his own head for saying such an asinine comment. Boy, did he feel like the village idiot while walking back toward the front.

BUY LINK:

http://www.amazon.com/Renzo-Ciprianos-Kellington-1-ebook/dp/B00F2SZFBO

Where you can find Jamallah:

blog: http://jamallahbergmansstoriesoflove.weebly.com/

facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamallahbergmanauthor

https://twitter.com/silentbutloud1

Inside Look with Donina Lynn author of Arms of Serenity

>> Click here for my Evernight Birthday Bash Post <<

I have a debut author today. Just like me, Donina had her debut with Evernight Publishing. Congratulations, Donina!! I got her to answer a bunch of questions and share several things about her debut, Arms of Serenity. Please help me welcome, Donina Lynn.

Inside Look logo by SJ

Thank you so much for having me on your blog today! I’m very excited to be here and to be sharing my debut novel Arms of Serenity.

I’m so glad you’re here. Okay, let’s get you comfortable. Picture your favorite place in the world. Now, can you tell us a little bit about the place you’ve pictured?

That’s a tough question. There are so many amazing and wonderful places to see. If I had to pick just one, I would go for New Zealand. I always wanted to vacation there. Years ago, I first fell in love with the landscape while watching Hercules and Xena. The country is breathtaking and I just gave away how old I am by mentioning those shows, didn’t I? 😉

Lol! I remember those shows. I’d love to go to New Zealand too. Great choice. Tell us about yourself: Who are you and why did you start writing?

I’m a small town girl who works for the local electric company in the warehouse. I get to drive around forklifts! I have a teenage daughter and a German Shepherd. Other than that, I’m quite a boring person. Back in school, I enjoyed writing and have always been a romance novel junkie. So, one day I decided to sit down and try writing one. Honestly, I think it was some part of my mid-life crisis! Instead of going out and getting a shiny car, I decided to write a steamy novel.

I’ve always loved the romances too. It was meant to be, Donina. 🙂 When you are not writing what are your favorite hobbies?

I am the definition of a couch potato!  I love, love, love the TV. In fact, it stays on at all times even when we’re not in the living room. When there isn’t anything good on the channels, Netflix and Vudu are my best friends. Nothing like losing yourself in a good kick-butt movie … Oh, I like reading too. Can’t forget that!

I do get plenty of inspiration from TV. Now, I just call my couch potato time research. 😉 Can you tell us about your challenges in getting your first book published?

Does punctuation count? I’m grammatically challenged and didn’t know it until I saw my first edits. Whatever my editor makes, it wasn’t near enough for all the work she put in on my manuscript!

I’m right there with you, editors can’t possibly make enough. Love my editor. I can’t wait to work with her again. Can you tell us about a criticism you’ve received that pushed you into a better writing place?

I honestly haven’t had any outside criticism. At least, not yet. I’m my own worst enemy when it comes to that, though. I’ve always been harder on myself than most outside influences.

That’s good though. I hope you also patted yourself on the back for getting published. Which one of your characters would you most like to meet in real life?

Oh, I love this question!  I want to meet them all! Eva is so full of spunk. I want to bottle her and I love Nick and Becca. But, if there is one that I want to meet over any it would be Todd. Sounds odd wanting to meet one of the secondary characters, but my inspiration for him was Dwayne Johnson and seriously who doesn’t want to meet The Rock? 😉

I do, lol. You love your characters. That’s awesome. What turns you on creatively?

Everything. Inspiration is everywhere. You can find it in someone you might know, hearing a phrase or song, watching people … the list goes on and on.

What is your greatest fear?

I have an extreme fear of snakes. It’s so bad I can’t even really handle the reptile buildings at a zoo. Go figure, I live in the country where they are all over the place. I have a philosophy, though. If they don’t let me know they exist and show themselves, I’ll pretend they aren’t out there and ignore them!!

What is your greatest extravagance?

Wow! I really don’t have one. I think I’m a bit sad over that and have now decided to go get one!

You definitely deserve one, Donina. What is your favorite music (genre/artist/album/song)?

Everything except Rap. I’m a rock fanatic mostly and like anything that I can jam too. Country is my second favorite and will boot scoot whenever I get a chance.

What is the one thing you do after finishing a story?

Relax and go back to being a potato on the couch and enjoy some down time.

Love it. We need to hang out together. 🙂 Tell us a bit about the projects you are working on now?

I started a few novellas. Not sure where they are heading yet, though. I also have the preliminaries for the next story in the Rock Services Series down on paper. There have been so many characters and stories that have been rattling around in my head lately, I’ve been rushing to get them started before losing them. I think I would like to try my hand at a ménage or something paranormal or sci-fi somewhere down the road. So many stories, so little time! I guess I should get writing, huh? 🙂

Yes, get writing. 🙂 Thank you so much, Donia, great answers. Okay, before you share your blurb and excerpt, tell us a bit about your debut, Arms of Serenity and how it all started.

When I first sat down to think about what I wanted to write, the one thing I knew I wanted to incorporate was a message. That being that the events of the past shouldn’t dictate how we live our lives in the future.  We should learn from our experiences and look to the future as an opportunity for a new beginning. Simple, right? But when we are unable to move beyond those events and they threaten to determine who we are today, is it ever that easy to forget and find the peace within ourselves to allow happiness into our lives? Life and especially love are never that simple.

In Arms of Serenity, you meet Nick and Becca. Both are emotionally damaged and in desperate need of someone to show them how to let go of their pasts and that love is possible as long as they are willing to let it in. Their story is full of inner struggles, laughs, romance and even a smidgen of danger. Doesn’t every good love story need at least one or two bad guys? 🙂

Arms of Serenity cover - click to see on GoodreadsArms of Serenity

Rock Services, Book One

by Donina Lynn

Blurb:

Plagued by guilt, Nicholas Hollsten ended his military career in the Special Forces and returned home only to be forced into a life he never wanted. Nick found himself running his father’s company and making good on a promise to his team. Angry and frustrated with the direction his life was taking, he calms his thoughts by filling his evenings and bed with soft distractions. Until one woman captures his interest.

Rebecca Klayton thought she was happy in her small town, running her bakery and avoiding love. That emotion only meant heartache and being left exactly where you started—alone. Lesson learned. But, when the sexy stranger from their hot New Year’s Eve party shows up at her counter, will she be able to ignore the temptation or will she find what she’s been missing in the Arms of Serenity?

Excerpt:

Becca got as far as the curb outside before she heard Nick’s voice calling her name. She closed her eyes and groaned.

Almost made it.

Why was he following her? Couldn’t he just leave her alone? She held up her hand to signal a taxi and hoped ignoring him would work until one stopped.

Becca heard him say her name again. Only this time he was too close to pretend that she didn’t hear him. She turned to find him holding the picture frame.

“You forgot this.”

He just wanted to give her the frame. She sighed in relief and reached to take it from him.

“Thank you.”

He looked at her and put a smug smile on before saying, “You forgot these also.” He reached into his pant pocket and pulled out a glimpse of white lace material.

Becca gasped when she realized it was her forgotten panties. She got closer to put her hand out.

“Thank you for finding them.”

Nick pushed them back in his pocket. “How about that coffee?”

Becca took a step back and crossed her arms. “Are you seriously holding my underwear hostage until I go out on a date with you? Doesn’t that border on blackmail?”

Nick laughed. “Just using whatever means I have at my disposal to get you to say yes.”

Becca would laugh too if she wasn’t so angry. He was being an arrogant pushy ass. She glared at him. From his polished shoes, tailored pants, and what looked like a cashmere sweater, he was head to toe everything that Becca wasn’t. Why was he doing this? Damn him for coming after her. Damn him for wanting more when he could go back into the ballroom and have anyone of those models sitting at the table.

“You’re not my type.” She turned away from him and once again put her hand up in the air.

She stood there not wanting to look back. He hadn’t answered her, and Becca silently hoped that he had walked away. She was a mess. Her insides trembled at the conflicting emotions of anger and longing coursing through her. It would be so easy to give in and go with him.

Becca felt a hand brush against her neck and his voice against her ear.

“I’m going to have to argue that statement. I seem to remember being exactly your type last night as you shook and screamed in pleasure when I was buried deep inside of you.” He kissed the spot behind her ear, and she gasped in response. Shivers cascaded through her, and she leaned back melting into his body.

Becca cursed herself.

Dammit, Becca get some control! He’s just a rich guy who thinks he can get anything he wants.

Becca pulled away and turned around to face him as a taxi finally came to her rescue. Opening the door, she stood behind it to use as a barrier between them and took a breath to steady her trembling legs and gain some courage.

“Nick, last night was great, and thank you for not saying anything back in there.” She nodded her head in the direction of the hotel and continued. “But I’m just not interested.” She got in the cab, closed the door, and stared ahead as she gave the driver her destination. As the taxi pulled away, she could see him in the rearview mirror. For the second time in less than twenty-four hours, she left him just standing and staring after her.

Available at:

Evernight Publishing:  http://www.evernightpublishing.com/arms-of-serenity-by-donina-lynn/

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Arms-Serenity-Rock-Services-ebook/dp/B00FE686L0

All Romance eBooks: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-armsofserenity-1304421-149.html

Bookstrand: http://www.bookstrand.com/arms-of-serenity-mf

Author Bio:

Donina LynnHi! I live in a small rural Pennsylvania town on the outskirts of the Poconos. As in small, I mean we don’t even have a traffic light. We do, however, have a DG, a pizzeria and a Chinese restaurant. Thank goodness! Because, I would probably starve without takeout and a microwave. Cooking is something I enjoy during the holidays and for special occasions. But on a normal day, I take full advantage of a supermarket’s frozen section.

Even though I was born and raised a country girl, my idea of communing with nature is gazing out my window while guzzling mass quantities of coffee. Next to the microwave, my Keurig is my prized possession. Seriously, the inventors of that gadget deserve an award and are personal heroes of mine.

When I’m not at my day job, hanging with my family or friends, curled up with my Kindle, or typing away at the computer, you can find me in front of the TV watching anything paranormal, sci-fi or a good action flick. Kudos go to any movie or show that incorporates explosions, big guns, and gratuitous butt shots.

My addiction to romance novels started as soon as I could turn a page and has stayed with me until much later in life when I decided to sit down and give writing one a whirl. Who knew that decision would have brought me here? I am extremely grateful it has and hope you enjoy reading about the characters that have taken up residence in my head. There is a bit of a warning, however. I have a fondness – bordering on obsession – with the military, public service, bad boys, and men with bald heads, goatees or tattoos.  Heroes with one or many of these traits might be a reoccurring theme until I can work through these issues. 🙂

You can find me at:

http://www.doninalynn.com

http://www.evernightpublishing.com/donina-lynn/

https://www.facebook.com/donina.lynn

https://twitter.com/DoninaLynn

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7277385.Donina_Lynn

http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00FE8T3HY

Inside Look with Eve Meridian author of Sam’s Learning Curve

>> Click here for my Evernight Birthday Bash Post <<

Inside Look logo by SJI have a treat for you today. Eve Meridian is here with her new release from one of my favorite lines, Romance on the Go! Eve’s sharing all kinds of stuff with us and I got her to answer some questions too. Enjoy.

Thank you, Sidney, for having me on today! I’m excited about my newest release with Evernight, and I’m hard at work on my next project. I know that you’ve had a recent release as well, so you know how exciting it is to get your creations out into the world! Wishing you the best of luck with Taking Chances!

Aw! Thank you, Eve. I know you’ve shared the blurb and an excerpt below, but tell us a little bit about your new release.

My latest published piece is Sam’s Learning Curve. It is part of the multi-author Romance on the Go line offered by Evernight Publishing. It has a little bit of humor mixed in with some sexy scenes.

Yeap, this sounds like something I want to read. Okay, here we go, first question:  Picture your favorite place in the world. Now, can you tell us a little bit about the place you’ve pictured?

My favorite place is a sandy beach in the late afternoon. The sun is shining, my toes are in the sand, and the water rushes to cover them every few minutes with the upcoming tide. Oh, and I’m drinking a frothy adult beverage with an umbrella in it.

Nice! That sounds lovely. 🙂 Tell us about yourself: Who are you and why did you start writing?

I have always been an avid reader and have dabbled in writing for years. (Seriously, I started my first novel in the 3rd grade. I didn’t finish it, though.) I have a B.A. with an emphasis in Creative Writing and English Lit. A few years ago, my husband bought me a Kindle Fire for Christmas. I had no idea that the ebook industry was such an incredible market. After reading a number of books via my Kindle, I realized it was time for me to pursue my dream of being a published author. I didn’t set out to write romance, but I found that I really liked it.

The ereaders certainly do open us up to a whole new world. When you are not writing what are your favorite hobbies?

I’m a runner, currently in training for my first marathon. It’s a great way to stay in shape and decrease stress. I also like yoga. And drinking red wine. (Actually, I love red wine.)

Impressive. My dad was a track and cross country coach, but I never really ran, until last year actually. I prefer red to white wine. After spending some time in Italy many years ago, I enjoy a good glass of red. Can you tell us about your challenges in getting your first book published?

So many challenges – such as making the time to write and committing to getting it done. Then there’s the questions to self-publish or submit it to a publisher who may or may not accept it. I decided to send my work to Evernight because I really liked their selection. They are also very easy to work with.

They are so easy to work with. We are very lucky, Eve. 🙂 Which one of your characters would you most like to meet in real life?

Hmmm…probably Ben, from Sam’s Learning Curve. I like a man with tattoos and a motorcycle with a head for business. There’s something sexy about that combination.

Yes, definitely sexy. What is your greatest fear?

There’s too many to list – just kidding. Skydiving used to be a big fear, but I conquered that by trying it. I’m still here, so it worked out okay. 😉 And although I love motorcycles, part of the adrenaline rush is from fear, so I took the motorcycle safety course and learned to actually ride one.

I don’t think I’ll ever have the guts to jump out of a plane. Yes, I’m very impressed. What is your greatest extravagance?

Hmm…I guess that would be my Frye boots.

Sweet! I’d love a pair. What is your favorite music (genre/artist/album/song)?

I like all types of music. My current favorite (especially while running) is “Blurred Lines” by Robin Thicke. I also love Cee-lo, The Dixie Chicks, Franz Ferdinand, Gwen Stefani, Me First and the Gimme Gimme’s, The Black Keys, Dropkick Murphys….I could go on, but I’ll stop.

My musical tastes are eclectic as well. Tell us a bit about the projects you are working on now?

I’m currently working on what I hope will be the first book in a series. It’s about a woman who finds her true calling after a divorce and a job loss. Of course, she also finds her true love. But the road to love is rarely easy….

That sounds like something I’d like to read too. Hurry up and finish it. 🙂 Okay. Give us a closer look at Sam’s Learning Curve.

Blurb:

Sam's Learning Curve cover - click to see on GoodreadsSam is perfectly fine being single. She has a job that she loves and the company she works for is promoting her after she finishes her M.B.A. She has great friends and a newly found love of running. Then she meets Ben, the sexy bike builder who just moved back into town and is unlike anyone she’s ever dated. Can she overcome her fear of getting hurt again and the fear of riding motorcycles so she doesn’t miss out on a great guy? Is it finally time for Sam to learn how to love again?

Excerpt:

“So how was your first ride? Did you like it?” he asked as he walked up and stood beside her.

She turned to him. “I loved it,” she said simply. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Ben was glad. It seemed important to him that she liked riding. He didn’t know why, but he found himself drawn to her.

“Seriously, I needed that. I guess I just didn’t know it.” She looked up at him with a smile playing on her luscious lips.

“Glad to be of service, ma’am,” he said as he turned towards her.

She closed the gap between them so that their bodies touched. Her chest was against his, and it felt like every point of contact between their two bodies was electrified. She had slid her sunglasses up on to her head, and he could see directly into her eyes.

He leaned down slightly, and the next thing he knew, their mouths were touching. Their kiss was tentative at first, but within seconds it grew. Her lips parted, and he slid his tongue into her mouth. She tasted sweet, and he leaned closer to her, wanting more. He felt her arms wrap around his neck and pull him in even closer. The next thing he knew, his hands were around her waist, grinding her body against his.

BUY LINKS:

http://www.evernightpublishing.com/sams-learning-curve-by-eve-meridian/

http://www.amazon.com/Sams-Learning-Curve-Romance-ebook/dp/B00F9Y9MJC/

https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-sam039slearningcurve-1297345-149.html

About the author:

I live in a small Ohio town with my military husband, two daughters, a neurotic cat named Max and a Lab/Newfoundland mix named Freyja. I’m an avid runner. I love writing (and reading) contemporary romances. Coffee and red wine are my two favorite food groups.

Here’s where I can be found online:

http://www.facebook.com/evemeridian

goodreads

Amazon

Twitter @Eve_Meridian

http://www.evernightpublishing.com/eve-meridian/

Inside Look with Bethany-Kris author of A Mile High

>> Click here for my Evernight Birthday Bash Post <<

click the Inside Look logo to find other interviews herePlease help me welcome Bethany-Kris. She’s here to celebrate her debut,

Here we go, first question: Picture your favorite place in the world. Now, can you tell us a little bit about the place you’ve pictured?

Yellow, orange skies. White sand. Crystal water. (Clearly I need a vacation)

Lol, so do I! Tell us about yourself: Who are you and why did you start writing?

My name is Bethany-Kris, and yep, I spell it just like that with no last name. I’m a Canadian author, lover of much, and mother to two young sons named Rohan and Lexan. One is almost four, the other is almost two. They keep me crazy busy. I love just about anything that’s bad for my health, work way too much, and don’t write nearly as often as I would like.

I started writing during an ordered best rest with my first pregnancy. I posted online for free under a different penname. All that is still there, also. I wasn’t the best at first, but who really is? I got better. I met great people. Betas with awesome talent were suddenly working with me. So, I continued. Nearly five years later, I’m still writing, except now it’s on a more professional level.

That’s awesome. My sons are just a little bit older and they keep me crazy busy too. Motherhood is hard work for sure. When you are not writing what are your favorite hobbies?

Wait…writing is my only hobby! Ha ha. No, really, it is. Between my fulltime job and the two boys, two cats, and two dogs, when I get to write, it is my time away.

I know what you mean. Writing is such a joy for me that I don’t need or want time away from it. Can you tell us about your challenges in getting your first book published?

Well, my first, A Mile High, wasn’t the first book I put out there under a publisher’s scrutiny. A different manuscript was, and it was denied. That was a hard pill for me to swallow, but I did, and I continued. Three days later, my submission for A Mile High was accepted.

My story is very similar. Can you tell us about a criticism you’ve received that pushed you into a better writing place?

One of my stories from a long time ago was given a great deal of criticism, not because of the writing, the grammar, the editing, whatever…no, but because the readers didn’t agree with the choices I made in regards to the plot. Crit is one thing, bashing someone on a personal level is something entirely different. I made a choice then to turn cheek at bad comments, reviews, whatever. I’ll accept anyone who wants to help me be better, and by learning to overlook the ones who don’t have that to offer allowed me to enjoy my writing as I wanted it to be seen and heard. It made me happier with my own writing, honestly.

That’s awesome and a very important thing to learn. Which one of your characters would you most like to meet in real life?

Oh, Sal from A Mile High, definitely. He’s tall, dark, and handsome. He’s got the charm going on and the humor to boot. Not to mention his ability to convince a woman to sleep with him on a plane. Hands down, Sal.

He sounds like a fabulous book boyfriend. 🙂 What turns you on creatively?

Music, pictures, general circumstance. It can be anything that catches my mind’s eye for a moment. If I can plot something out in my head by the way the leaves turned color in a week’s time, I’ll do it. Inspiration hits everywhere for me.

What is your greatest fear?

Surprisingly, it’s not failure. Being a writer, I kind of figure there will be a time when something will be seen as a failure. No, my greatest fear kind of revolves around my beautiful children. I hope the lives I gave this world are proud of me for the accomplishments I’ve made. Every word I put to paper is for them, in one way or another.

That’s beautiful. I bet you’re a really wonderful mom. What is your greatest extravagance?

Heh—Phones. Seriously, I update mine at least once every six months. Something new comes out, and I gotta have it.

Oh, and books. I have a library in my house…no, really, an actual library. So, I pick up paperbacks and hardcovers by the handful every time new releases are out.

Wow, that’s so cool. I have books all over my house. I think when my kids are older, I’ll have to designate their playroom as my library. 😀 What is your favorite music (genre/artist/album/song)?

Lana Del Rey is a favorite artist. Anything by her makes it into my fave list.

The Civil Wars – Poison and Wine is also a song that haunts me forever.

Finally, Counting Stars by OneRepublic reminds me of A Mile High, so it gets a special mention.

I love The Civil Wars. They are uber talented. What is the one thing you do after finishing a story?

I celebrate, usually with coffee…and cigarettes (see, things that are bad for me). The manuscript can need hours of work, but I still stop to enjoy my moment of finishing something worth reading.

Yeah! I. Love. Coffee. It definitely helps me soak in a moment. (I’m not even going to mention the cigarettes. Nope. Promise.) Tell us a bit about the projects you are working on now?

I have two works in progress, A Love Unfinished. This is a paranormal/shifters romance that’s nearly finished, so I’m about to have a celebratory dance for that.

Another is The Scandal of Three, a ménage erotic romance that I have just begun.

But, right now, I’m working on promoting A Mile High. It’s a contemporary erotic romance published by Evernight Publishing. It’s brand new, and my first ever release.

A Mile High cover - click to see on GoodreadsHere’s the summary for it: Olivia wants a vacation, that’s all, but when the airline screws up her plans for a week getaway to the beautiful Barbados, instead putting her on a new path that intertwines with the handsome, funny, and charming Sal, she can’t say no to his offer of joining the mile high club. Their meeting is explosive, attraction intense, and when the flight ends, Olivia is unwilling to part ways but unable to voice her wants. Still, fate is at work with its own plan, and where it finishes just might not be where it ends up.

There’s nothing quite like sex at a mile high.

****

Thank you for having me on your blog today!

You’re very welcome, Bethany-Kris. Congratulations on your debut. 😀

A Mile High can be found at: 

Evernight Publishing: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/a-mile-high-by-bethany-kris/

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/A-Mile-High-ebook/dp/B00FEXO4TQ/

ARe: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-amilehigh-1304746-149.html

And you can find me on Twitter, Facebook, and Blogger.

Cover Reveal: Bared by Stacey Kennedy

>> Click here for my Evernight Birthday Bash Post <<

Bared cover - click to see on GoodreadsBARED

Club Sin, Book Two

Stacey Kennedy

Publisher: Loveswept

(Random House Publishing Group)

ISBN: 9780804178884

Release date: February 2014

+ Add to goodreads

PRE-ORDER BUTTONS:

Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Bared-Club-Sin-ebook/dp/B00EMXC022

B&N – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bared-stacey-kennedy/1116525826

Book Description:

In a novel that’s perfect for fans of Fifty Shades of Grey, Stacey Kennedy returns to Club Sin with another wicked and wild tale of submission, seduction, and love.
 
At Las Vegas’s exclusive Club Sin, Aidan Knight is the Master, unleashing the erotic yearnings of his submissive lovers. But his dominant façade conceals a devastating loss—something he instantly recognizes in his personally trained submissive Cora Adams. Sworn to unearth her secrets, Aidan uses his seductive skills to ignite her wildest desires until Cora yields to the pleasure she can find only with him.

Cora came to the BDSM club to act out her sub-and-dom fantasies without ever revealing the heartbreak that haunts her. But Aidan’s masterful touch is bringing her closer to the edge . . . and deeper into a world of control and surrender. He refuses to allow her to submit to any other man—nor does she want to. It’s a dangerous game they’re playing. For as they give in to passion, they must lay bare their souls for a love that could heal—and free—them both.

Bared is an erotic romance intended for mature audiences.
 
Praise for Stacey Kennedy’s Claimed
 
Claimed sucked me in! Stacey Kennedy weaves together the intense BDSM lifestyle with the soft touch of a sweeter, more traditional love story in a novel with an engaging heroine at its heart.”—J. Kenner, New York Times bestselling author of Release Me

“Deliciously sexy, Claimed will captivate you at once, leading you on an erotic journey that you won’t want to end. A fabulous talent, Kennedy shines in this fast-paced and exciting novel.”New York Times bestselling author Cheyenne McCray

“Tender, emotional—and smoking hot!”—Savanna Fox, author of the Dirty Girls Book Club series

About the Author:

staceykennedy1Stacey Kennedy is an urban fantasy lover at heart, but she also enjoys losing herself in dark and sensual worlds. She lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, who gave her a happily-ever-after. Together, they have two small children who can always make her smile, and who will never be allowed to read Mommy’s books. If she’s not plugging away at a new story, you’ll find her camping, curling up with the latest flick, or obsessing over Sons of Anarchy and Game of Thrones.

Website – http://www.staceykennedy.com/

Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/AuthorStaceyKennedy

Facebook Fan Page – www.facebook.com/StaceyKennedyFanPage

Twitter – https://twitter.com/#!/Stacey_Kennedy

Goodreads – http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3473046.Stacey_Kennedy

Loveswept websitehttp://www.readloveswept.com

CHECK OUT THE FIRST BOOK IN THE CLUB SIN SERIES:

Claimed sucked me in! Stacey Kennedy weaves together the intense BDSM lifestyle with the soft touch of a sweeter, more traditional love story in a novel with an engaging heroine at its heart.”—J. Kenner, New York Times bestselling author of Release Me

Final ClaimedA novel of erotic discovery and forbidden desire that goes beyond Fifty Shades of Grey.

Presley Flynn is ripe to experience her secret fantasies . . . and Dmitri Pratt wants nothing more than to fulfill them. Once inside the elite Club Sin in Las Vegas, Presley is nervous but excited—and determined to surrender to her every desire. Dmitri is her Master, and his touch is like fire. With each careful, calculated caress, he unleashes her wildest inhibitions, giving her unimagined pleasure.

Presley is different than the other submissives Dmitri has mastered. The BDSM lifestyle is new to her, and so are the games they play at Club Sin. From the start, Presley stirs emotions in Dmitri far beyond the raw purity between a dom and the perfect sub. For the ecstasy they share goes beyond the dungeon, igniting a passion that claims the very depths of the heart.

Claimed is an erotic romance intended for mature audiences.

BUY LINK – http://www.randomhouse.com/book/229124/claimed-by-stacey-kennedy

Happy Birthday Evernight Publishing! It’s a Birthday Bash Blog Hop

Celebrate like a ROCK STAR because Evernight Publishing is THREE!

Evernight 3rd bday blog hop button - click to go to EvernightPublishing.com

In three short years, Evernight has grown by leaps and bounds thanks to readers like you! Evernight is pulling out all the stops and throwing an extreme BIRTHDAY BASH BLOG HOP in your honor!

That’s right! It’s Evernight’s birthday but YOU get the presents…

Prizes include:

Samsung Galaxy Tab

Kindle Paperwhite

Kobo Touch

$100 Evernight and Amazon Gift Certificates

Mega Evernight Swag Pack

Plus, each author on the hop will offer his/her own special prize!

As an author, I’m thrilled to share my stories with you and Evernight helped to make my debut, TAKING CHANCES shine! Here’s why I love Evernight Publishing:

The experience from the start has been quite rewarding. The warm welcome started right away. The authors at this publishing home of mine are incredible. They’re a silly bunch and very helpful. You have a question, someone will have an answer.

I was so nervous to work with my editor. Goofy me. She was awesome, so supportive, and I’m incredibly proud of the final touches she helped me make. I can’t wait to work with her again. I mentioned her in my dedication too. 

Next stop was the cover art. Sour Cherry Designs is amazing. Right of the bat they gave me the cover I’d dreamed of. I love it.

Soon, I was ready for release day. I’ve been having such a good time. The fun and support just keeps going and going. I can not wait to do it all over again with Evernight Publishing.

It’s an incredible honor to be published through Evernight Publishing. They Rock!

For my part in this rock star party:

I’m giving away one $10 Evernight Gift Card

>>> a Rafflecopter giveaway <<<

TAKING CHANCES cover - click to see at Evernight Publishing5 Star Review: “Taking Chances, is a must read for anyone who wants a great story, well written, smoking hot smexy scenes and an oh so hot hero.”

5 Star Review: ”Taking Chances is SJ Maylee’s debut novel and she does an excellent job of creating interesting characters searching for connection while providing enough kink and spice to heat things up.”

5 Star Review: “it’s well written, there’s no slw moments and it’s packed full of hot sexual tension”

BLURB:

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 has 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. But together they can 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 love.

Excerpt:

“Come on in, Lydia. I want to talk about a few things before we get started today. We need to make it quick, since we need to report to Keller at ten this morning.” When she remained in her spot he added, “Lydia, come here.”

Not wanting Gina to take anything further from her, she lifted her head and walked to Jake. She stopped at his desk, but felt instantly unworthy. Gina was more Jake’s style. She fought the need to lower her chin.

“Look at me, Lydia.”

He pushed her. “Why?” She shifted her gaze and hit him with her direct stare.

“Thank you. I needed to see your eyes.” He reached out and swiped a lock of hair from her face. He tucked the strand behind her ear, and let his finger drag down her face to her shoulder. All the while his gaze captured hers, not letting go. “How are you this morning?”

“I’m okay.”

“Okay? Hmm, maybe I should do something to improve your mood? What would you say to that?”

“Here?” she gasped and quickly turned to look out the door.

He grabbed hold of her shoulders, lifting her slightly off the floor.

“Yes, here.” He brought their bodies together, claimed her lips and swept his tongue through her mouth, awakening her sexual hunger.

She felt wanted. She felt claimed. Images from the night before swam in her mind. Silly challenges from the office mean girl were all forgotten. He set her down and nipped at her lower lip.

“We have a lot to do today. Unfortunately we cannot go any further, now.” He stepped back behind his desk as casually as if he’d just greeted the mail man.

“But you would want to?” Still looking at the papers on his desk, she didn’t think he heard her. She took a step closer. “You would repeat last night?”

Her words stopped him. His gaze searched her face. Placing his hands on the desk he leaned forward and said, “Lydia, I fully intend to further explore your body and mind. After all, there are a few places I haven’t yet completely inspected.”

Her mind ran through what he had done to her last night, and there was only one place she could think of. Warmth fluttered through her face.

“Now, that is a beautiful sight.” He returned to his papers. “I’m going to have to keep thinking of ways to shock you simply to see you blush again.” With the papers properly sorted, his attention returned to her. “Is Gina a problem?”

Gina was a lot of things, but she’d never thought of her as a problem. “I don’t think so.”

“Don’t be afraid to put her in her place. She likes that more than she lets on. She’s the type to push so she can be pushed back.”

“I hadn’t thought of her that way. Interesting.”

“Let me know if she becomes a problem.” His gaze drilled into hers, not letting her escape.

“Okay.”

“Okay?” His posture remained controlled, but the smirk couldn’t be missed.

She added her own version of the devilish grin, which ignited another blush before she even spoke. “Okay, Sir.”

“Trouble.” He stalked towards her and ruthlessly swept his hand under the hem of her skirt to press firmly along her panties. His lips pressed to her ear. “Hot and damp.”

The palm of his hand pressed on her clit, and he bent his knuckles, sending the tips of his fingers past the edge of her panties to drag along her slit.

“Be careful what you say to me, sweetheart, or you’ll shatter my control.” With one last drag of his fingers, he pulled away and walked from the room.

She turned around and watched him go. Her heart pounded. All she could do was follow him, but she couldn’t move. The exchange with Jake left her bones unsettled, and the all too familiar ache tried to set-up shop in her chest. She hadn’t expected him to crave more from her, and now she couldn’t deny he did. Was she going to deny herself the pleasure of getting to know him?

BUY LINKS:

Evernight | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookStrand | All Romance Ebooks

Enter to win the EVERNIGHT PUBLISHING Grand Prizes using this Rafflecopter:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

It’s the perfect time to buy the Evernight titles on your TBR list, as well as new gems you find during the event, because Evernight’s entire backlist is on sale at evernightpublishing.com through October 14th!

Don’t forget to visit my rafflecopter for your chance to win

a $10 Evernight Gift Card.

Please consider following me and keep in touch.

Twitter | Facebook Page | Google+ | Goodreads | Pinterest | Amazon 

Keep the party going there’s 100 stops in this rock star hop.

Have a great time!

Inside Look with Nicola Cameron author of Grading the Curve

click to see all the Inside Looks posted here at SJMaylee.comI have Nicola Cameron in the ehouse today and she’s giving us the inside look into her new release, Grading the Curve. It has been released through one of my favorite Evernight Publishing lines, Romance on the Go. First up, I got Nicola to answers some questions and below you’ll find the cover, blurb, an excerpt, and all her links. Enjoy.

What turns you on creatively?

Something unusual that piques my curiosity. One time, I got stuck in downtown Dallas traffic and noticed the proliferation of pyramids that are used in architecture there. As I thought, “Gee, someone who could use pyramid power would love this place,” a plot bunny landed and I got a book out of it.

That’s fabulous. Plot bunnies really are everywhere, lol. What do you consider your greatest achievement?

My mother would have said it was surviving past the age of 6 (I was a bit clumsy when I was young). I would have to say it’s my writing career — 2013 in particular has been an absolutely spectacular publishing year for me.

Ha! My sister-in-law is the same way, total klutz. I’d bet 2014 is going to be even better yet. What is your greatest fear?

Being forced to do work that I hate just to survive. I’ve had to do it before, and I really, really don’t ever want to go back to that place again.

I hear you. Evil day jobs are the worst.What are some of your favorite curse words?

As the daughter of a Marine, “fuck” and variations thereof are usually on my playlist.

Nice! That’s one of my favs too. J What is your favorite music (genre/artist/album/song)?

I like a wide variety of music from classical to rock. I like writing to instrumental soundtracks, and Sherlock Holmes, Pirates of the Caribbean, Stage Beauty, and The Fountain are some of my favorites.

Instrumentals can definitely be fabulous to write to. I don’t pick them enough. I’ll have to try these out. Thanks! When you’re not writing what are your favorite hobbies?

Do you have a couple of hours? When I’m not writing, I knit, quilt, crochet, make dollhouses, design jewelry, make dolls, and

Wow. Very interesting. What is your greatest extravagance?

Ebooks and crafting stash.

What quality do you most admire in a man?

Kindness. Too often, men these days are taught that it isn’t manly to be kind, and that’s just so damn wrong.

Truth! I saw several character trait lists today for various heroes and kindness definitely wasn’t listed that often. What is the one thing you do after finishing a story?

Enjoy the day-long writer’s high that comes with it. I don’t know what goes on in my brain when I finish something, but it’s better than Vicodin.

I know that feeling. It’s so very satisfying. Tell us a bit about the projects you are working on now?

I’m currently working on Breaker Zone (Book Two in the Olympic Cove series), a sci-fi caper romance called Two to Tango, and an MMF time-traveling adventure called Pharaoh’s Desire.

Grading the Curve cover - click to see on GoodreadsGRADING THE CURVE

by NICOLA CAMERON

BLURB:

Ellen Ragsdale is a scholarship student who just wants to get her college degree and start her life. Alexander Cord is a widowed English professor who hides his loneliness behind a sardonic facade. School rules have kept them at arm’s length all year long. But on the last night of Ellen’s college career, the two of them risk everything to find out if their mutual attraction is more than a classroom crush.

BUY LINKS:

EXCERPT

“Did you know that you always blush when you talk to me?” he said quietly. “It’s charming. You look like a medieval maiden receiving her first suitor.”

It felt like someone had painted fire across her skin. She ducked her head, staring dumbly at the hallway’s scarred paint. He couldn’t know. Nobody knew that about her. It wasn’t that obvious.

Was it?

“Interesting.” She could hear the smile in his voice. “I meant it as a compliment, but perhaps I struck closer to the truth than I’d intended.” He moved closer, and she could feel the heat from his whole body now, warming her like an invisible caress. “Are you?”

She swallowed hard. He couldn’t be asking what she thought he was asking. “A-am I—”

“A maiden. A virgin. I believe a popular term is ‘unicorn bait.’” His voice dropped, turning into a soft rumble. “I have to admit, I’m puzzled as to how someone as lovely and intelligent as you could still be virginal.”

Her entire face now felt like it was on fire. She’d gone on the occasional date, usually doubling with Keisha or Dianne, but once the guys found out what her schedule was like they didn’t bother calling again. “Too busy, I guess. Working, studying.”

To her surprise, cool fingers slid under her chin, gently turning her face up. “What a shame,” Cord said, his voice low and soft. “But if it’s of any consolation, men your age do tend to be rather slapdash and impatient when it comes to women. I assure you, you haven’t missed out on much by skipping the undergraduate sexual circus.” The façade of the academic disappeared. Underneath was a man she didn’t know, warm and standing so close to her. “That being said, I wonder … would you be willing to consider me?”

“What—” Her throat clicked, it was so dry. She swallowed and tried again. “What are you saying?”

He tilted his head to the side. “I want to take you to bed, Miss Ragsdale. I want to kiss that pink mouth of yours, undress you ever so slowly, play with those gorgeous breasts and suck your nipples before I caress every inch of your body. I want to bury my tongue between your legs and lap at your clit, and when you’re dripping wet I want to bury my cock in you. I want to see that sweet mouth of yours open and scream my name as I make you come over and over again.” Now she could smell his cologne, something masculine, woody, and underneath that, the musk of clean male. “Come home with me tonight, Miss Ragsdale. Let me make love to you. I promise you, you won’t regret it.”

BIO

Nicola Cameron is an expatriate Chicagoan who has lived in England, Canada, Holland, and Sweden, and keeps a confusing amalgamation of languages in her head as a result. Currently located in the clavicle of Texas, she has finally mastered the proper use of “y’all,” much to her Chicago family’s dismay.

Despite a healthy interest in sex since puberty, it wasn’t until 2012 that Nicola decided to try writing about it. As it turned out, the skills she picked up during her SF writing career transferred rather nicely to erotic romance. When not writing, she wrangles cats, smooches her husband, makes dolls of dubious and questionable identity, and thanks almighty Cthulhu that she doesn’t have to work for a major telecommunications company any more (because there’s BDSM, and then there’s just plain torture…).

Spotlight: BET ON ECSTASY by Stacey Kennedy

click to see all books Spotlighted by SJPact of Seduction, Book 3 is here. I can’t wait to read BET ON ECSTASY. I’ve been loving this series. See the series on Goodreads here. Enjoy!

Bet on Ecstasy cover - click to see on Goodreads

BET ON ECSTASY

Pact of Seduction, Book 3

By Stacey Kennedy

Publisher: Loose Id

ISBN: 978-1-62300-462-0

Release date: September 24, 2013

BUY LINKS:

Author website – http://www.staceykennedy.com/bet-on-ecstasy/

Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Bet-Ecstasy-Pact-Seduction-ebook/dp/B00FEIYY5K

Loose Id – http://www.loose-id.com/pact-of-seduction-3-bet-on-ecstasy.html

Book Description:

Business partners, Smith and Brock share their fortune, success, and they share their women. A healthy competitive streak built MDR Software into a multi-million-dollar enterprise, and their on-going bets continuously raise the stakes. The current proposition: an arranged ménage encounter through the sex club, Castle Dolce Vita. The prize: a sexy kitten, Kyra.

While the two wealthy, powerful men are enough to pique Kyra’s interests to fulfill the Pact of Seduction and live out her ultimate fantasy, a bet forged between the men comes with an intriguing promise. Her pleasure is now part of their wager.

Soon, Kyra fights against her desire for the men as she struggles through the complications of a ménage relationship. Of course, the men take their bets seriously and are determined to show Kyra that in this game of seduction no one loses.

About the Author:

StaceyKennedyStacey Kennedy is an urban fantasy lover at heart, but she also enjoys losing herself in dark and sensual worlds. She lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, who gave her a happily-ever-after. Together, they have two small children who can always make her smile, and who will never be allowed to read Mommy’s books. If she’s not plugging away at a new story, you’ll find her camping, curling up with the latest flick, or obsessing over Supernatural, True Blood, Lost Girl, and Sons of Anarchy.

Website – http://www.staceykennedy.com/

Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/AuthorStaceyKennedy

Facebook Fan Page – www.facebook.com/StaceyKennedyFanPage

Twitter – https://twitter.com/#!/Stacey_Kennedy

Goodreads – http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3473046.Stacey_Kennedy

CHECK OUT THE OTHER BOOKS IN THE PACT OF SEDUCTION SERIES:Bind Mehttp://www.staceykennedy.com/bind-me/

SK_BegForIthttp://www.staceykennedy.com/beg-for-it/

EXCERPT:

“Prick.” Smith slammed the pool cue down on the table, cursing the game that had cost him a thousand dollars. The muscles in his neck ached, as did the throb in his head from concentrating on winning for the last twenty minutes.

His business partner, Brock, laughed. The black ball spun in the corner pocket, and the white ball swept up the table to hit one of Smith’s two remaining striped balls. “Pay up,” Brock stated.

Smith scowled at the glow in Brock’s blue-gray eyes. He mentally flipped Brock off for his satisfied smirk. With a snort, Smith grabbed his wallet from his back pocket, then tossed the money onto the pool table. “You got lucky.”

“Lucky!” Brock gave a booming laugh. “It’s all skill, buddy.”

He cursed again under his breath, dropping down into the leather seat in the corner of his office. Perhaps he shouldn’t have purchased the new pool table. Then he wouldn’t have had his ass handed to him.

His secretary had thought he’d lost his mind when he asked her to place the order. Smith figured it made total sense. A game in between the long hours he worked kept him sane, which made a thought rise. “Did you go through the last stack of résumés?”

Brock nodded. “Sure did, but no one stood out.”

Smith pointed. “You’re too damn picky.” He’d seen at least four résumés that fit exactly what they were looking for to hire new employees to ease up their workload.

Brock grinned. “Perhaps.” He hesitated, then gave a halfhearted shrug. “Why change something that works.”

Even if the month-long search grated on Smith’s last nerve, he also couldn’t deny the truth behind Brock’s statement.

MDR Software had been built upon years of hard work and sweat, not only from Smith, but from Brock too. When the company had celebrated its five-year anniversary, it had grown into a million-dollar venture in Chicago. After the takeover a year later of fellow software company HighDot, located in the heart of Baltimore, MDR’s worth tripled.

Brock leaned against the pool table, his gaze glowing. “New bet?”

“You emptied my wallet, who says I want another bet?”

While Smith did have money in the bank, he didn’t have any other cash on him. It had taken a good year to stop the memories of living paycheck to paycheck and pinching every penny. Though he’d grown more comfortable with money, he’d never forget when they first opened the company, he ate hotdogs for an entire month.

“Not interested in winning your cash back?” Brock asked, stretching his arms.

The sardonic look Brock delivered usually raised the stakes in their bets. A competitive streak had remained healthy between them, and not only in business. For the most part, Smith enjoyed betting on things, except when he lost. “Possibly.”

Smith laced his fingers behind his head, catching a glimpse of the Baltimore skyline out the large panoramic window. The dark night was typical. There wasn’t a day he, or Brock, didn’t put in a ten-hour shift.

Hard work made for a solid company. Yet the long hours had also been the reason why Smith had been pushing for new employees. He wanted a life, not more time in his damned office.

The telephone next to Smith rang once, and Brock’s grin became sinful. Smith’s irritation at the loss of the game morphed into a new type of heat, pooling low in his groin. He reached for the phone on the side table, then held it to his ear. “Smith.”

“Kyra Garner is here to see you,” the security man, Antonio, said. “I realize it’s late, but she said you were expecting her.”

“Send her up.” Smith placed the phone back on the base, spotting Brock’s expression shift in intensity. Smith also sensed the growing impulse to control and conquer. It’d been a long day waiting for Kyra to arrive, and now Brock’s question held a stronger appeal. “I take it she’s the bet?” At Brock’s nod, he added, “What’s the wager?”

Brock smirked. “Ecstasy.”

Smith had always understood why women flocked to Brock; his charisma, handsome features, matched with a lighthearted personality impressed the ladies. Smith witnessed the toughest businesswomen crack under the assault of that smile. “Bet on ecstasy, hmm?” He rubbed his jaw, considering the proposition. “I’m intrigued, but why that one?”

Brock lifted a lazy shoulder. “Any other bet would make us assholes.”

Smith nearly offered a bet on who Kyra would take an interest in, perhaps who she might want to date when the night concluded. It had happened before. Smith had attempted to date two of the women he’d met through ménage adventures with Brock. The last woman had become near obsessive, causing Smith to shut her down when she showed up at his office. The only thing that resulted from any relationship lately was money-hungry women who wanted a certain lifestyle he wouldn’t give them.

Even the women he dated who weren’t into ménage relationships ended up more interested in where he took them for dinner. The social circuit in Baltimore had been disappointing and hadn’t given him anything other than one-night stands.

After consideration, he dismissed the thought of his idea for the bet. Anything too emotional crossed a line neither him, nor Brock, would cross. He preferred no-strings-attached sex, but he wasn’t a coldhearted bastard. “Interesting bet. Indeed.”

Brock ran a hand through his sandy-colored messily styled hair, which amused Smith. No matter if they were surrounded by millionaires, at work, or watching Sunday-night football, his hair always remained disheveled. “Christ, she’ll reap the rewards anyway.”

From what Smith heard out in the hallway, Kyra was nearly at his office, her high heels clicking along the marble floor. “No one loses,” Smith agreed. “Well, except one of us, which will be you.”

“Dream on.” Brock jumped off the pool table as the sound of her heels against the floor drew closer. “You in?”

Smith nodded. “Double it up.”

The clicks of Kyra’s heels sounded right outside the door. One second passed of silence—far longer than he expected. He wondered if she searched for bravery. When she finally entered through the opened door, the sight of her stunned him, and his entire body came to life.

His cock hardened to steel, causing him to groan as raw primal need tensed his muscles. He experienced a pull to her that shocked the wind right out of his lungs—it was more than lust; it was raw chemistry. Kyra was beautiful.

Standing at the doorway, she offered a sweet smile that held a mysterious edge. Her green eyes were a stunning light color he’d never seen before. Her long black hair would drape beautifully over his thighs when her puffy lips pleasured him.

“Hello, Kyra,” he murmured.

She strode into the office with a confidence he favored in women, chin high, gaze fixated directly on him. Once in the center of the office, she licked those lovely glossy pink lips. “Smith.” Her gaze cut to the right. “Brock.”

“Pleasure to meet you.” Brock winked, a playful smile teasing the corners of his mouth. “I mean to say, in person, and not through e-mails and texts.”

Her laughter was as lovely as the women who owned it. “Yes, exactly.”

Smith stood from the chair in the corner, gesturing to the leather couch. “Please take a seat.”

Kyra approached the couch, and her scent carried to him. Smith inhaled the mix of flowers and spice that suited her. Sweet with a slice of fire. He reveled in that combination. “Would you like a glass of wine?”

Her smile was polite. “Yes, thank you.”

Smith chuckled under his breath, unable to stop himself. An outsider would think she arrived tonight for business. Kyra looked all too proper in her rose-colored blouse and black pencil skirt, but her killer legs were anything but appropriate.

The meeting tonight had nothing to do with discussing software.

Brock closed the office door and locked it before he dropped down into the couch across from her, while Smith retrieved her wine from the small bar in the corner.

“Do tell us, Kyra, about this pact of seduction you made with your friends,” Brock said. “I must admit, I found your ad at the Castle Dolce Vita…appealing.”

A personal ad Smith and Brock had stumbled upon late one night on the Web site’s forum. Castle Dolce Vita was located out of Bowleys Quarters, a half-hour drive from Baltimore. The castle catered to everything from ménage encounters to BDSM to just about anything the mind could conjure.

Smith poured her wine and corked the bottle. He turned to hear her reply in a strong voice, “It’s a silly pact between friends to live out our ultimate fantasies. Call it boredom, or maybe insanity, but that’s the gist of it. Two of my friends have already completed the pact, and so, here I am.”

Smith enjoyed the strength Kyra portrayed. Most women wouldn’t voice such thoughts so freely without a stumble in speech or mere hesitation. Impressed by her, he approached, eyeing her silky calf crossed over her knee, envisioning exactly where and how he planned to touch her.

Smith reached her, raised his attention to her face, and she bewitched him with her elegance. He offered her the wineglass. “You all joined the Castle Dolce Vita to fulfill this pact?”

She accepted the glass and as she did, he brushed his fingers over hers. Kyra’s eyes widened, breath hitched. “Yes, we all joined. It seemed like the best place to find others looking for similar ventures.”

The perfect place, Smith thought.

Though that interested him, he couldn’t take his eyes off her, more than pleased he wasn’t the only one affected by the clear heat between them. Tonight would be enjoyable for all, if her reactions were anything like she’d shown from the simple touch.

He and Brock had both been members of Castle Dolce Vita since they relocated to Baltimore. Of course, they also had visited many sex clubs around the country who catered to sexual exploration. He’d reveled in the freedom. No emotions. No needy women. He could have fun, then walk away.

While both of them had numerous relationships throughout the years, some lasting longer than others, all failed miserably. Their tastes included an active sexual appetite. Smith had never met a woman who fulfilled him enough, and none of their ménage relationships had ever worked out. The women they’d been with had thought they could handle two men, but it always turned out two was just a little too much.

“Why are you members?” Kyra asked.

Simple question. Simple answer.

Together, they weren’t only solid partners in business and excelled at their work, but with a woman between them, they shone. They’d shared their fortune, success, and enjoyed sharing their women.

Smith watched as Kyra took a sip of her wine and her eyes fluttered closed, indicating she enjoyed the taste of the wine. At six hundred dollars a bottle, Smith wasn’t surprised. He sat down in the leather chair to her left, gazing over the long lines of her shapely, silky legs.

Images of them wrapped around his waist while he drove into her could be his undoing. He forced his gaze onto her face again, which was currently turning a lovely rose color under his examination.

Smith liked the effect he had on her.

He fought to remember her question and cleared his throat. “Our business is our top priority. This tends to mean our time is limited. The castle has provided a means for us to enjoy sex without involving relationships. Also, it has the highest form of privacy.” Even he heard the cold distance in his voice and saw her eyebrows rise.

Every person who joined the castle signed a waiver swearing to keep things private and not share identities to nonmembers, and everyone went through STD and AIDS testing. Smith preferred knowing his sexual partners were clean rather than having casual sex with strangers from a nightclub, and the privacy of the castle offered a sense of freedom.

Kyra took another mouthful of her wine, then with a twinkle in her eyes, tipped the glass at him. “Understandable. Privacy is something I can appreciate too.”

Woman, you are to be appreciated, and then some.

Brock chuckled at Smith, clearly reading his thoughts. He turned to Kyra. “Tell us a little something of yourself. More than the basic details in the profile we saw when we discovered you, kitten.”

The side of her mouth arched at the nickname indicating she didn’t mind, and why would she? Smith had no doubt Brock lowered his voice to inflict a straight attack on her hormones.

“I’d prefer if we kept the small talk to minimum,” she said.

Smith leaned back in his seat. He’d never met a woman who didn’t want some type of intimate connection before they had sex. Not in any of the encounters that had been arranged through the castle, or relationships out of the castle for that matter.

He lifted his chin. “All business, then?”

She drank a larger sip of her wine before she lowered the glass. “We’re not here to get to know one another, are we? We’re here to fulfill my ménage fantasy.” Her eyebrows rose higher. “That is what we agreed to, yes?”

“All action. No talking.” Brock’s grin widened as he rubbed his jawline. “Damn, kitten, you’re my type of woman.”

While Brock seemed eager and accepting of her response, Smith wasn’t so easily swayed. Women, even if they came in different colors and shapes, were still women rich with emotions. Right now, Kyra acted more like a man, void of any emotional connection. “Are you comfortable with that arrangement, Kyra?”

Her deep swallow displayed her nerves, but she sipped her wine in haste controlling the reaction. “I prefer it.”

Smith grinned at her while she shifted uneasily in her seat. He enjoyed that he unnerved her, since her presence gave him a hefty erection. Plus, she made him far more interested than he’d ever been in any woman.

While he believed she had, in fact, lied to him with her answer, he wouldn’t speculate as to why. He also wouldn’t argue it out with her either. Her emotions belonged to her. “Fair enough.”

He paused while she drank her wine again. Once he had her fixated on him, he leaned forward, resting his arms on his elbows. “It’s important you’re aware of what’s ahead of you tonight. Before you arrived, Brock and I decided to make a bet on you, if you’re agreeable.”

Suspicion darkened her eyes as she lowered her glass onto her lap. “What sort of bet?”

“Your orgasms,” Brock declared.

A blush crept over her face, yet her expression didn’t hold any wrath at such a bet, which Smith would’ve expected. She blinked. “E-excuse me?”

Brock added, “The wager is simple: orgasms for points. Whoever gains the most points from your pleasure by the end of the night wins the money.”

Her pupils dilated, and her lips arched up into a sexy smile. “Might I ask what the value of this bet is?”

“Two thousand dollars,” Smith stated.

All the heated reaction vanished in a millisecond replaced by wide eyes, and her mouth fell open. She glanced around the office as she must’ve realized their wealth. Maybe only now she realized they didn’t just work at MDR Software, but they owned the company.

Smith had seen the reaction many times—fancy things impressed women, sparkly things even more. What he hadn’t ever seen before, once the surprise faded from her eyes, she didn’t seem at all interested in that. “Seriously, a two-thousand-dollar bet on my orgasms?”

“Yes, kitten, we’re quite serious.” Brock grinned. “Are you willing?”

Christ, Smith could only grip the armrests to stop himself from going to her, tossing her legs over his shoulders, and having himself a snack. No woman had ever made him this damn hard.

In a slow, seductive slide of her finger she traced the rim of her glass as she regarded them. “I’m agreeable to join the bet.” Her cheeks flushed a color that wreaked havoc on Smith’s cock, making it ache in need. “But I’m afraid there’s a problem.”

Smith forced his attention away from her slender finger that he hoped would make a similar move on his dick. He also ignored her pinkish cheeks that he prayed burned deeper while she writhed beneath him. “Which is?”

She hesitated, then said on a quick breath, “I don’t orgasm easily.”

Smith smiled. As if that would be a problem. But it was glaringly obvious she pretended to be a sex kitten who was, in fact, more or less, in way over her beautiful head.

He could see himself respecting a woman like Kyra.

He exchanged a look with Brock, who gave him a firm nod, indicating their thoughts ran on the same line. Smith turned to Kyra again, and he noticed how she squirmed in her seat.

Exactly how he wanted her.

Smith appreciated a confident woman who fought to be brave, and he respected the trait, yet without a certain vulnerability to her, the appeal would fade. He loved pink cheeks and a stunned speechless woman under his touch. More to the point, enjoyed when a woman unraveled in his presence. To hold such heady power fed a greedy part in his soul.

In the minutes Kyra had been in his office, she’d given him all these things.

He tilted his head, regarding the treat awaiting him on the couch. “Quite the dilemma, isn’t it?” He stood from his seat and approached her. It delighted him how she sucked in a deep breath, and how ragged it sounded from her parted lips.

Once in front of her, he took the wineglass from her hands. The stunning clarity in her eyes mesmerized him. “Sit on the desk. Do not cross your legs.”

Her eyes blazed with reservations, even as she licked her lips. “Why?”

Smith scanned over her long, beautiful neck, her silky skin stretching over her hammering pulse. “We take our bets seriously and need to know what we’re up against. It’s a lot of money to wager if it’s bound to fail.” He leaned down into her face, his cock pressed against the zipper in his slacks. “Get on the desk, Kyra.”