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.

Authors in Bloom Blog Hop 2017 with S.J. Maylee #gardeningtips #romance

Posted on March 27, 2017 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 pretty stressful and I find the quiet time in the garden is just the thing to clear my mind. Not to mention, when I’m writing, I often gaze at my flower beds as my mind searches for that next word. 😀 Throughout the post I’m sharing pictures from my garden last year.

Hope you enjoy!

Keep reading for my gardening tips, news on what I’m working on this year, my giveaway, AND how to enter for your chance to win the fab GRAND PRIZE!

Here are six of my general gardening tips:

1. Now that the ground is unfreezing, it’s a great time to start thinking about what seeds you’ll plant this year. April is planning month for me. It’s when I map out my garden and pull out my seed packets. A great tip is to soak your seeds for 24 hours prior to planting. They’ll germinate so much quicker!

2. Work compost or manure into your garden several weeks before planting. All that good stuff needs time to balance out the soil.

3. If you find earth worms in your garden, it’s a huge compliment. Your soil is probably healthy and those worms are making things even better. They allow air into your soil and they leave behind good stuff. So smile when you see those little guys.

4. I’m a fan of garden fabric, you can read about that in my post from last year’s Author’s in Bloom. I should state that I do use mulch in my flower beds, but if you want to use mulch in your vegetable gardens, make sure you’re using untreated mulch. You don’t want the chemicals from the pretty colored mulch getting into your healthy veggies.

5. Late last year, I bought new pots for my front porch, found a fab sale. I also wanted something larger, but I certainly don’t want to fill the entire pot with dirt. It will be so heavy. Eek! Also, it’s important to make sure the roots in your pots have room to breathe. This is why potting soil is so different from top soil. I’ve heard of putting rocks at the bottom of pots or bits of broken clay pots, but packing peanuts are also a great option. Simply pour several inches into the bottom of your pot before adding the potting soil.

6. Herbs. Love these easy to grow plants that add freshness to everything I cook. My big tip for growing herbs: use them all summer long. Every time you cut some, they’ll grow faster to replace what you’ve taken. I’m serious. And at the end of the season, cut what you haven’t used, clean/dry them, place in a freezer bag, and put them in the freezer. Then, don’t forget to use them before spring comes around again.

Extra tips: read my post from last year

This year I’m concentrating on THREE things: writing the next books in my Love Projects Series and Assassins and Sweethearts Series, and co-writing a book with one of my close author friends. I’m so excited about each project. Be sure to subscribe to my >> New Release Newsletter << You don’t want to miss any of these releases. Also, 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:

Be Warned: light BDSM, bondage, anal play

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 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.”

“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.

“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 Giveaway: I’m giving away one ebook from my Love Projects Series AND one ebook from my Assassins and Sweethearts Series. To enter, leave a comment below about which of my projects you’re looking forward to the most and then click my >> Rafflecopter << for more chances to win.

GRAND PRIZE: We are giving away a ereader ($200 value). 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 5th at 11:59 PM EST.

Valentine’s Day Blog Hop! Unexpected #Romance ~ Show Your Love @JocelynDex @WendiZwaduk

Posted on February 12, 2017 by S.J. Maylee

Welcome to the Valentine’s Day Blog Hop!

Have to admit, this holiday is sneaking up on me and I’m feeling totally unprepared. Eek. Sure, I’ve been married for almost 17 years now, but come on. I’d love to surprise my hubby this year with something sweet or fun or simply special.

Can you help this writer out?

Give me your ideas. What have you done or have always done that your special someone has enjoyed? Is it a certain recipe, sweet treat, something you do together??? What works for you? Please share with everyone. ❤ At the end of the hop, I’ll pick one random commenter (open internationally) to win an ecopy of one of my books.

ALSO, if you enter the rafflecopter giveaway below, you’re entered to win an Amazon Echo Dot! See all the link below.

My last release is the 3rd book in my Assassins and Sweethearts Series. The heroes in this series may be assassins, but they really know how to protect their sweethearts. Although I LOVE writing the intense fast paced scenes this Romantic Suspense series brings, these characters also show their vulnerability and in those moments we get to see who they really are and who they aren’t willing to live without. Now, that is something that makes my heart go pitter-pat. ❤ Here’s a bit about my latest release…

Unexpected Destiny

Assassins and Sweethearts Series

by S.J. Maylee

Contemporary Erotic Romantic Suspense

ISBN: 978-1-77233-978-9

Book Description:

Elizabeth Martin thought she had her happily ever after, 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.

Be Warned: light BDSM, bondage, anal play

Goodreads

Where you can find UNEXPECTED DESTINY

Evernight | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Bookstrand | Kobo | iTunes | Smashwords

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 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.”

“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.

“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.

New Release Newsletter

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

Evernight Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

BookStrand | Smashwords | iTunes

AandS Series Books 1 2 3

Rafflecopter:

https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/cbc5e7ff6/

Keep Hopping:

http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=693743

Big thank you to AM Griffin, Wendi Zwaduk, Jocelyn Dex, and Dena Garson for putting this all together. Thank you, ladies! ❤

valentine_bloghop2017_button

Authors in Bloom Blog Hop with S.J. Maylee #gardeningtips #romance

Posted on April 7, 2016 by S.J. Maylee

Welcome to the Authors in Bloom Blog Hop!

Gardening is one of my favorite things. Bright cheery flowers simply make me happy. From every window in my house, there’s a lovely view of one of my many gardens. I could talk about this topic all day. 😀

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

Here are six of my general gardening tips:

Plant for all the seasons. I’m in Michigan and many of my favorite flowers bloom only certain times of the year, but I keep this in mind when planning my gardens. This way, there’s always something blooming. Some of my favorites in the spring include Creeping Phlox, Pansies, and Tulips.
Feed the veggies and the flowers. We function best when we have all our vitamins and so do our friends in the garden. It makes such a difference. Follow the directions on the product of your choice and keep feeding throughout the season as directed. You’ll definitely lengthen your time with those pretties.
Prune. Don’t forget to cut back spent blooms. Not only does it keep your flowers looking fresh, but it gives space to the youngins to get the sun, water, and food they need.
Plant a variety of flowers. Different size, shape, and color can add variety to your beds.
Add pops of color to your deck and or porch with annual flowers. I’ve got my pots down to a method: something tall, something mid-height, and something to hang low. 🙂 If you can find different flowers of the same color, it can really look pretty in the pots.
If you have a vegetable garden, I highly recommend a little fence to keep the critters out. I also recommend using a garden fabric. The soil around your vegetables will be highly fertile for pesky weeds. The weed barrier may be time consuming to lay down, BUT it will save you countless hours of weeding throughout the summer.

FullSizeRender 2

My next release is book 1.5 in my Assassins and Sweethearts Series, Desire Protected AND it’s going to be a FREE read. 😀 I’m quite excited about this one. I’m in LOVE with my Assassins. Their stories are full of suspense and passion. I dare you to come fall in love with them too. ❤

Book 1 Description:

Life is passing Nadia Duskin by from her position in the mailroom. It only fulfills two necessities, keeping the repo man away and keeping her up to date on her sexy CEO.

Ethan Wright is prepared to frighten and fire the nosey girl who sorts his company’s mail. After engaging with her at one of his favorite places in the world, he digs deeper.

Together, they find the kind of pleasure that could keep them satisfied for a lifetime. Her love may be the key to putting both of their lives back on track, but to what end? When a man he’s been contracted to kill threatens Nadia’s life, he forces her to face reality. Either they’ll delve deeper into the desires neither expected or they may die trying.

Be Warned: spanking, light BDSM, public exhibition

Excerpt from book 1, Desire Unexpected:

“It reminded me of you.” He shook his head. “It’s just from the museum gift shop. I wanted to give you something for putting up with me. I hope you like it.”

“Thank you.” She took the little box and sat on her battered sofa. “Please, take a seat.”

He sat next to her, but kept to the edge, confirming there was nothing relaxed about this visit.

After slipping the green ribbon from the box, she pulled off the lid and pushed back the tissue paper, revealing the item she’d so long desired. Her heart raced and she scooted closer to him. He had no idea what he’d done. Her secret crush giving her the piece of jewelry she’d long desired was incredibly perfect. Neither were really her style and she wanted them all the same. She looked at him with heavy tears stinging her eyes. Brushing the box from her lap, she slipped the bracelet onto her wrist.

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. I’ve enjoyed our time together.” He brushed away the tear that had rolled down her cheek and cupped her chin.

“Don’t say that like it’s over.” She took a hold of his wrist and pulled it into her lap. “It’s not, right?” Panic raced over her. If he wanted to leave, she wouldn’t stop him, but her whole body hurt with wanting him to stay.

“I’m no good for you, Nadia.” He took hold of her hands. “You deserve a nice man with an uncomplicated life. I can’t give you what you need.”

“That’s not true.” She put her fingers to his lips. “Don’t.”

He took a hold of her shirt, not pulling her closer, just squeezing the fabric in his fist.

“I don’t know what’s going on with you.” She brought her touch back to his hands, trying to ease the pressure. “I just know the only time I feel alive is when I’m with you. You’re on my mind constantly.” She lowered her gaze, losing her courage by the second. “There’s something between us and I want to explore it. I want to know what drives you insane with need. Don’t you want me too?”

“Shit, Nadia, I haven’t stopped thinking about you since the first day at the windows.” He let her go and pulled out of her reach to slip around to the other side of the couch with his back to her. “I want things from you that I’m certain would frighten you.”

“I doubt that.” Knowing she had to make her move now or risk losing him forever, she pulled her shirt over her head and tugged off her sweatpants, tossing them both on the chair. “Do you remember the questions I asked about you before we met?”

“You’re playing with fire.”

“No, I’m not into fire play, but I have a feeling you know what I need.”

“What …” He turned, his gaze swept over her body and he brushed his hand over his mouth. “You take my breath away.” He stepped toward her, adjusting the bulge in his pants. “You think you want to play?”

“I do.” She sucked on her lip, wishing she’d worn her one set of matching bra and panties.

“Fuck, I want this” He brushed her skin ever so slightly up her arms, across her chest, and down between her breasts. “I’ve had dreams about this moment.” He raised her chin, forcing her to look at him. He dragged his fingers through her hair and tugged the length of it back. “I want you at my mercy. Do you have any idea what it’s like to give someone like me control?”

“Yes, sir.” She arched her back, revealing her neck. He kept pulling and tingles of pain danced along her scalp. “Please.”

“Are you already asking for mercy?” He tugged her hair again “I don’t think you know what you’re starting.”

“I don’t want you to stop. I want more, sir.” Her breasts pushed against his chest and her grip on his arms tightened. “I want to know.”

Where you can find DESIRE UNEXPECTED:

Evernight Publishing | Amazon US CA UK

Barnes & Noble | All Romance eBooks | BookStrand | Smashwords

S.J. Maylee’s Giveaway: I’m giving away one of my ebooks and one of my swag packs full of postcards, book charms, Assassins and Sweethearts pin, and a zipper pull. To enter, leave a comment below about something you love about Spring Time and then click into my >> Rafflecopter << for more chances to win.

Be sure to sign up for my >> New Release Newsletter <<. You don’t want to miss the release of Assassins and Sweethearts 1.5, the FREE read. Also, one subscriber wins a $5 gift card in every issue.

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 ereader and gift card. So, keep hopping. 😀

Powered by Linky Tools

Click here to view this Linky list and visit other stops in the hop.

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

Tour ends April 16th at 11:59pm EST.

Happy Birthday Evernight Publishing! Giveaways, Sales, Release and Coming Soon News

Posted on October 1, 2015 by S.J. Maylee

Evernight Celebrates 5 Years of Publishing!

Thanks to readers like you, Evernight Publishing has grown by leaps and bounds in five years so they’re pulling out all the stops and throwing an extreme BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION BLOG HOP in your honor!

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

Prizes include:

Apple Watch Sport

NEW Kindle Paperwhite

Fitbit Flex

Evernight, Amazon, and ARe Gift Certificates

Plus, each author on the hop has a special prize too!

To enter, see the rafflecopters at the bottom of this post.

I’ve been published with Evernight for over two years. I can’t say enough about them. The whole team is fabulous. I’ve found amazing and supportive friendships with the Evernight authors and I’m in love with this high quality publishing team. I’m proud to call myself an Evernight author. I hope to continue to work with them for years to come. ❤

There are several more books in my series that I plan to write and I already have ideas for more. First I’ll wrap up the three series I’m already writing. The third book in my Love Projects Series, Taking Over, released in June. The second book in my Club Blind Series, Far From Blind, releases this month and it’s an Editor’s Pick. Woot! 😀 My current project is the second book in my Assassins and Sweethearts Series.

Here are teases from the first books in the Love Project Series, Club Blind Series, and Assassins and Sweethearts Series. I’m giving away a copy of each of these to one lucky visitor. To enter, simply click on my rafflecopter below.

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

Evernight Publishing | Amazon US CA UK | Barnes & Noble | Nook UK

All Romance eBooks | BookStrand | Smashwords | iTunes

It’s a great time for an Evernight shopping spree because all Evernight titles are 25% off through October 9^th at AllRomance eBooks!

Enter to win S.J. Maylee’s Giveaway:

>>> Click Here to Enter S.J. Maylee’s Giveaway <<<

Enter to win the Grand Prizes:

>>> Click Here to Enter Grand Prize <<<

Hop to the next stop by clicking here!

❤

Happy New Year! Evernight’s Holiday Hangover Blog Hop @evernightpub

Posted on January 1, 2015 by S.J. Maylee

Happy New Year from Evernight!

Now that the Christmas cookies are gone, gifts unwrapped, and your holiday visitors have left, you’ve earned some well-deserved TLC. Evernight authors not only have the cure for your holiday hangover, they have fantastic new books for your 2015 reading list, too!

Be sure to visit every stop on the hop and answer each question. The more you blogs you hop, the more chances to win the GRAND PRIZE of an iPad Mini sponsored by Evernight Publishing (one entry per blog). Plus, hop each blog for a host of other fabulous prizes.

So sink into your favorite chair and enjoy your holiday hangover!

I hope you had a good time last night whatever you were up to, you naughty little minx. 😉 I’m going to share SJs magic cure for a hangover. It just so happens to be the magic ingredient to a good diet, and even weight loss. I’m going to share. Are you ready? The magic thing is …

Water.

Seriously. Hangovers are caused by dehydration. Drink up. Dehydration on a non-hangover day can also be misdiagnosed as hunger, causing you to eat unnecessary calories. Drink up. Water will also help your body to function better by flushing out the junk, keep your sinuses healthy, and even stop stains from setting up shop on your teeth.

Water. It’s the magical fix. You’re welcome. 🙂

Now that we have the serious water business out of the way, we can talk about the important stuff, sexy book boyfriends, and how we go about falling in love with them. I have big plans for 2015. Upfront and center is the delivery of many new sexy book boyfriends.

In February, I’ll introduce you to Miles. He didn’t have a chance when it came to Emma. He intended to ensure her safety and in return she stole his heart. Their story is coming to you along with nine others in the Evernight Uniform Fetish Anthology. Miles is a handsome man in blue, protecting the streets and looking sexy as hell. I can’t wait to share him with you.

Also this year, I plan on delivering the final two stories in my Love Projects series and the next in the Club Blind series. There are plans for a new series and at least one other surprise. 2015 is going to be full of new sexy book boyfriends! I can’t wait. 😀

Enter for a chance to win Evernight’s GRAND PRIZE of an iPad Mini and my blog prize of a $10 Amazon gift card by answering this question (be sure to include your email address to be eligible to win):

QUESTION: I’m currently plotting several stories I’m writing in 2015 and I’m searching for sexy inspiration. What would you like to read about this year? Do you want a demanding sexy alpha hero? Do you want them to make love in inappropriate places? Friends to lovers? Perhaps a spanking?

CONGRATULATIONS TO …

Shirley Ann Speakman

She’s the random winner of my $10 Amazon Gift Card

Thank you to everyone who commented!! My next hop will be Feb. 6-14.

Your Holiday Hangover continues here:

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Roll out the Red Carpet ~ Evernight Celebrates Four Years of Publishing!

Posted on October 3, 2014 by S.J. Maylee

Happy Birthday, Evernight Publishing!

Join authors, bloggers and reviewers as we take a RED CARPET tour featuring Evernight’s smart and sexy books. Slip on your virtual stilettos and walk the red carpet of award winning titles, spectacular reviews and paparazzi style interviews.

Be sure to visit every stop on the tour where you can enter for a chance to win great prizes, including a new eReader, gift certificates, swag, books and much more!

Don’t forget to visit the Evernight Publishing website where all eBooks are 50% off through October 13th!

Wow! 50% off! If you’re looking for me, I’ll be book shopping. 🙂
Here are links to my smart and sexy books at Evernight’s website:

Taking Chances | Taking Courage | Untangle Me | Executive Assistant

I am a happy author. My fabulous publisher, Evernight Publishing has published four of my books and that number will soon grow to five. I’m in the middle of my last round of edits. I cannot wait to share In the Blind with you.

Last year, I had no idea if my dream of becoming a published author would ever happen. When Evernight Publishing said yes that first time, they took a chance on a dreamer, a lover of romance, and a nervous Nellie, lol. Little did I know, I would be welcomed into a family with open arms. The friendships I’ve made are priceless.

Today, I want to talk about my most recent release with Evernight. It’s the second book in my Love Projects series, Taking Courage. Here are quotes from a couple reviews on Goodreads:

“Author SJ Maylee keeps getting better and better!”

“This second book in the Love Project Series is witty and very steamy. Through the twists and turns, this book keep me enraptured until the end. And having a little of Jake and Lydia thrown is was a plus. What’s next Ms. Maylee? Cause I cannot wait!!”

“Prep list before you start reading this book: 1. A comfortable spot 2. A glass of wine 3. A vibrator and finally total privacy. Not an exaggeration if the chemistry between Janna and Simon upon first meeting isn’t enough to melt your undies off some of their scenes definitely will do the trick!”

😀

Below is an excerpt from the first chapter. During her last night in town, Janna finally enters Club Voyage, a private BDSM club, as a guest. Her escort for the evening has asked her to strip and she’s about half way there. Enjoy!

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The sounds of the club nagged at her attention, but they couldn’t compete with the dominant male watching her every move. She had a feeling his attention could be addictive.

She shook her head. Now was not the time to analyze. It was time to act. Her bra and panties needed to come off. She needed to reveal her body, not to the room, to this man … correction, this Dom. She was not leaving without giving this a real try.

Her gaze locked onto his and remained. After one more deep breath, she reached around and unclipped her bra. The free hand held the cups and smashed them into her chest. One arm, then the other and her shoulders were free. After one more deep breath, her fingers clawed around the bra cups and pulled, revealing her small breasts.

Cool air swirled around her tender tight nipples, and his gaze remained, unwavering. Could he see the nerves dancing along her skin? Her thumbs dragged along her thighs to her hips, hooked the corner of her panties, and pulled.

With the last of her clothes set on the table, she straightened her back and let her shoulders fall. She’d done it.

Master Simon made quick work of the buttons on his shirt, pulling it off his thick shoulders and added the garment to her pile. He stalked towards her, stopped about a foot away, tempting her. “Well done, pet.”

She melted on the inside and swayed her hips as warmth filled her core. His gaze released her, and she stood silent as he looked her over. Nerves threatened to walk back in, but she barred the way.

“Turn back around now and watch the others around us.”

A couple of new scenes had started. One in particular caught her attention. The sub was strapped to a horse of sorts and the Dom was fucking her from behind. Janna’s nipples tightened further, and her core heated until honey coated her sex. She’d watched similar scenes on-line dozens of times. The live version was unbearably hotter. A moan escaped her lips.

“You’re beautiful.” His warm body pressed up against her back, and a hand slid along her waist pulling her into him. She melted. His mouth caressed her ear. “Do you like what you see, pet?” He pressed her hips back against his fly. His hand lifted from her belly and smacked her pussy.

“Oh.” A delicious mingling of sensations floated over her.

“You must answer my questions. Do you understand?”

“I do, Sir.” Her sex heated further.

“Do you like what you see?” His hand returned to her stomach and pulled, pressing their bodies together.

“Yes, Sir.”

“I will be touching you while you watch the sub get fucked. You are free to orgasm.”

“Thank you, Sir.”

“You will use your safe word if you need to?”

“Yes, Sir.”

He shifted and pressed his hard cock into the left side of her ass. “Very good, pet. Now, watch the couple while I explore your body.”

His hand moved along her stomach and up to take hold of her breast, molding and tugging on the supple skin. She had never felt more alive. Pressure encased her nipples as he pinched and pulled.

“Oh!” Clamps were no match for the tension he was able to elicit. Her breasts swelled with glorious pleasure. “Sorry, Sir.”

“You can vocalize your pleasure. I like knowing you like what I do to you. Now is not the time for conversation, however. Unnecessary words will lead to punishment.” He pulled her nipples again. “I suspect you like the way that feels?”

“Yes, Sir. I do, more than I even thought I would.”

He pulled tighter and let go. Blood rushed back in, and her pleasure rose. She wanted to beg him to touch her pussy, but knew that might halt his progress and bring her away from her impending pleasure.

She let go of her need and watched the sub. She was bound and only moved when her Dom entered her from behind. The subs here had no control over what happened to their bodies. These Doms decided what they needed.

He pinched and pulled again. Her sex screamed to be touched. Fortunately, he left her stinging nipples and traveled in a line direct to her bare pussy. He pulled her outer lips apart, revealing her inner lips to anyone looking back at them and allowed the air in the room to feather across her damp skin.

Vulnerable.

His fingers delved into her. First one finger and then two pushed into her pussy and dragged the wetness around her clit. He pinched and pulled in short tugs to her clit, each time drawing more blood to the tender area. The pattern drove her right to the edge.

“Take a couple steps forward, spread your legs, and support yourself on the table.” When she didn’t move he added, “Now, pet.”

_________________________

Did it just get hot in here. 😀

BLURB:

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.

Be Warned: sex toys, spanking, BDSM, public exhibition, anal sex

WHERE YOU CAN FIND TAKING COURAGE:

Evernight Publishing <- 50% off through October 13th!

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

All Romance eBooks | BookStrand | Smashwords | iTunes

Amazon.ca | Amazon.co.uk | Amazon.de

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Answer my question below in the comment section for a chance to win (be sure to include your email address):

Prizes Available

* Your choice of an Amazon Kindle Fire HD or Kobo Arc 7
* $100 Amazon GC
* $50 Evernight GC
* My blog prize: the first prize: $10 Amazon Gift Card the second prize: swag pack (US only and includes one of each item in the picture below and your choice of book charm – if someone outside the US wins they’ll receive an ecopy of one of my released books)

Question: once you’ve read the above excerpt from Taking Courage, answer this question in the comments below. Do you think Janna and Simon have a hot and steamy future together or will Janna lose her courage and walk away?

Thanks for stopping by! 😀

Want to know when my next book releases?

Hop to the next stop!

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Giveaway Winners!

Thank you to everyone who helped us celebrate Evernight Publishing’s 4th Birthday! I’ve used a random formula to locate my winners. Congratulations to Brandi Dagwan for winning the gift card and to Alaina for winning the swag pack. I’m emailing you both now. 🙂 I have a brand new giveaway starting tomorrow with the release of my next book, In the Blind. I hope to see you all here.

Thank

Guilty Indulgence is 4! Let’s Hop and Indulge in an Erotic Beginning

Posted on September 21, 2014 by S.J. Maylee

We’re Celebrating the Ndulgent Bloggers’ 4th BLOGiversary!

4 Years of Reviews. 4 Years of Supporting Authors. 4 Years of Great Books. 4 Huge Bags o’ Swag.

Congratulations to Guilty Indulgence on four fabulous years. 😀

I love to indulge, especially when it comes to my addiction to hot romances. My heroines are hard working ladies. I may not make their path to love easy, but I make sure the reward is worth it.

In my latest release, Taking Courage, Janna and Simon are having a hard time getting past their bumpy start. She fears he’ll never really want her and he’s not ready to see her go. In this snippet you’ll see if this is where it will end or if it’s just the hot indulgent beginning.

EXCERPT:

She pulled herself from his hold a little too easily. It only took a couple steps to get out of his reach.

“I’m sorry this didn’t work out. I’ll contact Charlie. Maybe she can set up a meet for Friday and I’ll be off your hands.”

“Now, wait a minute.”

“I’m sorry for the trouble I’ve caused you. I get it now.” She stepped closer to the door and her escape route. “I shouldn’t have put you in this position.”

“Would you just hold on for a minute? Stop running from me.”

She stopped moving.

“Get back over here. I didn’t release you.”

She pivoted on the balls of her feet, and he pointed to the space in front of him. She squeezed in between Simon and the desk. He leaned forward and forced her back. She rested her elbows on the desk and knocked her head into his laptop. He pushed it away.

Silently he opened her blouse. Her bra had a front closure, and he released it as well. She flicked off her shoes and pulled up her feet to rest them on the edge of the desk. He grabbed hold of her pussy and returned her to the moment and his control.

Long seconds ticked by as he watched her. Was he making a decision about her, or had he done it already? She bit her lip. Vulnerability rolled in waves over her. Simon had exposed her in a whole new way. Why was she letting him do this to her?

“Maybe I’m giving you a hard time because I’ve been hurt before by lies.” He looked like a judge deciding her fate.

“I’m sorry, Sir.”

“Thank you.” He flexed his fingers, reminding her of her position. “Here’s where I stand. I do believe your actions weren’t meant to be manipulative, and I’ll stop bringing it up.” His eyes raked over her, and flames licked through her body. “But don’t think I’ll let you get away with lies by omission again.”

“I know,” she spat out.

He squeezed the folds around her pussy.

“Thank you, Sir.”

“Now, as for me wanting you.” He pulled her hips to the edge of his desk. “Give me your hand.”

She reached for him, and he pulled her to sitting. With a kiss to her palm, he pressed her hand around the hard ridge of his cock.

“I’ve been hard for you all day. I know the soft, warm grip of your pussy, and it’s all I could think about today, especially after feeling your ass and watching your squirm through the meeting.” He stroked her hand up and down on his hard length. “You’re breathtaking, Janna. Having control over your body is quickly becoming my obsession. I can’t get you out of my head. I couldn’t wait to touch your pussy again, to taste you, watch you pulsate as your orgasm rises and you come all over my tongue.”

“Yes, please, Sir.”

“I’ll help you to learn the path as my submissive, and we’ll take the rest one day at a time.” He bent over her and took her left nipple into his mouth and pushed the heel of her hand down the edge of his cock.

“Oh, Sir.”

“I must warn you.” He tugged on her nipple with his teeth and let it go. “Do you remember your safe word?”

BLURB:

WHERE YOU CAN FIND TAKING COURAGE:

Evernight Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

All Romance eBooks | BookStrand | Smashwords | iTunes

Amazon.ca | Amazon.co.uk | Amazon.de

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For my giveaway of a $10 Amazon gift card : leave a comment here letting me know What indulgence do you enjoy reading about most and then click on this Rafflecopter

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In the Pages of a Good Book Blog Hop – Celebrating Friendships

Posted on August 29, 2014 by S.J. Maylee

Through the years I’ve made and lost many friends, but those I’ve met through my love of books are so very dear to me. Like my girlfriends from childhood, my book girlfriends get a part of me that many others can’t seem to reach. That’s right, with our noses stuck in the pages of a good book we found something to enjoy, to love, and to bring us together.

So, cheers to all the friends I’ve met along the way and especially to Beckey White and for all she does in and around her fabulous blog. Here’s to that book we love and that book we haven’t yet met. The future looks very bright.

I’d like to share with you my latest heroine, Janna. I like to think of her as my girlfriend. In fact, in this book you see her form a friendship with the heroine from book one in my Love Projects series and with Anne too. She’ll be the heroine of book four. I suspect they’ll be inseparable by then. Back to Janna, she’s fighting for not just her career but the potential love of her life. She has the kind of courage I dream about. I learned a lot from her.

Excerpt from what happens after this quote:

“Can we start over?”

“I hope you’re ready for the meeting. I don’t like my time wasted.” He leered at her with what looked like unrestrained disgust.

“I don’t deserve this. I know I shouldn’t have forgotten to tell you it was my first scene, and for that, I am sorry.” She’d done it. She’d admitted her fault in the matter. Would he let her off the hook? His mocking stare told her she was wasting her time. “I was ready for the scene, and you have to admit it went well.”

“I don’t have to admit anything, and I have no time for liars.”

It was a sucker punch, but she let it land. Her shoulders sagged with the weight of his revulsion. She hadn’t been open and honest. She hadn’t meant to leave out the truth, or had she done it on purpose?

She had been frightened of his rejection or being talked out of the scene, a scene that gave her necessary answers. A scene she desperately wanted repeated. But she was wasting her time. She’d have to find a way to push through with her professionalism and pray he didn’t give her any trouble.

“Well, I guess that’s it then.” She waited a couple heartbeats in one last hope he’d change his answer. “Thanks for listening.”

She turned and concentrated on getting to the door.

“Wait—shit.”

Tears welled up and threatened to escape, so she quickened her pace. She got her hand on the doorknob, and his hand landed on the door next to her face.

“I said wait.”

BLURB:

WHERE YOU CAN FIND TAKING COURAGE:

Evernight Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

All Romance eBooks | BookStrand | Smashwords | iTunes

Amazon.ca | Amazon.co.uk | Amazon.de

Now, for all the giveaways. 😀 The hop is on through Sunday. I’ll pick my winners Monday morning.

I’ll be giving away one copy of any of my released ebooks (international) and one swag pack (US only).

To enter, leave a comment on this post about book friendships.

Click this Rafflecopter link to enter the giveaway for a Kindle!
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Click this Rafflecopter link to enter the giveaway of books and gift cards
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Click this Rafflecopter link to enter the promo giveaway for authors
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Now, it’s time to hop on to the other participating blogs. Have Fun!
An InLinkz Link-up

Wicked Nights Giveaway Hop with all things S.J. Maylee

Posted on May 14, 2014 by S.J. Maylee

Welcome to the Wicked Nights giveaway hop hosted by Herding Cats & Burning Soup.

Wicked Nights. Oh, yeah. We LOVE those naughty…steamy… oh-so-wicked reads. Check out all of our favorite scorching hot books, heroes and heroines. There will be naughty giveaways at every stop so be sure to check them all out! And don’t forget to enter the Grand Prize Giveaway for an Amazon Gift Card!

I’m celebrating both of my current releases and the next two that are Coming Soon. They’re a sure fire way to steam up your nights and make them all kinds of wicked.

Taking Chances is the first in my Love Projects series and stars Jake and Lydia. She’s the quiet type with the naughty imagination. This pair may meet at work, but their first night together sparks all kinds of untapped passion.

One night during their story, Jake and Lydia find each other outside. You’ll need to read their story to find out how kinky they get and if they have any privacy.

Review from BDSM Book Review: Story Rating: 5 out of 5 paddles & Sting Factor (kink): 5 out of 5

Review from Romancing the Book: “The chemistry between Jake and Lydia is blistering. The sex scenes were scorching.”

Untangle Me is my second release and this story plays with temptation from an older and more experienced man. Rob and Ivy’s story seems like it will be simple at first, but then it gets all tangled. One thing remains true. This is a couple that likes it naughty.

One night during their story, Rob and Ivy meet in the middle of a crowded club. The music beats their passion to a new level. You’ll need to read their story to find out if they let go or if they hang tight to their tangled lives.

LASR “If you’re looking for a quick, enjoyable, sexy read, then Untangle Me by SJ Maylee is your book.”

All of my stories are stand alone, but they occur in the same world. You never know when you’ll see a familiar character again or when a side character will star in their own story.

The second in my Love Projects series will release in the next few weeks and stars Simon (Jake’s best friend and a side character in Taking Chances). Not too long after that, Unravel Me will release in a new Evernight Publishing anthology and will star Colin (a side character from Simon’s book).

Where to find S.J. Maylee books:

Evernight Publishing | Amazon | Smashwords | Barnes & Noble | ARe

It’s a great time to pick up my books at ARe.
They’re giving a 25% Rebate on all Evernight books during the whole month of May.