Category Archives: Marvelous Monday Reads
Marvelous Monday Reads: Eluding Illusions
Happy Monday, folks! Let’s get stuck into the week with Wren Michaels’ gorgeous new book Eluding Illusions, now available from Evernight Publishing and other purveyors of erotic romance. Take it away, Wren!
Emma Banciu dreams about her novels taking on a life of their own. Thanks to a centuries old Gypsy curse, they tend to do just that. Writing with pen and paper she brings things to life, and hell hath no fury like an antagonist scorned. Now she’s on the run from Kyrin, an evil demon warlord who surfaced from one of her first manuscripts. And the only way to get rid of him is to destroy the manuscript.
Enter JG1988, her long-time online friend. He knows nothing of the curse nor the magick Emma possesses. His only wish is to finally meet her in person and take their relationship to the next level. He reveals a surprise of his own when he shows up at Emma’s door as international recording artist Jake Griffin.
Destroying the manuscript will not only get rid of Kyrin, but also end her relationship with Jake. But keeping secrets from him may end up doing just that. In order to survive they’ll resort to love, lies, and a little Gypsy magick.
Story Excerpt
Jake led her into the adjoining room where a baby grand piano sat in the corner.
Turning the piano bench sideways, he sat back and motioned for her to sit in front of him. His arms slid alongside her shoulders as he reached out for the ivory bars, and he tightened his legs against her outer thighs. The heat radiating off him surrounded Emma like a blanket of safety. She snuggled up against his chest as his fingers tickled the keys.
Succumbing to the enchanting melody, her eyes fell closed. His chest pressed against her back, rising and falling as he sang out the verses he wrote just for her, simply titled, Emma’s Song. The words took her breath away how he spoke so lovingly of her through song. Each refrain more passion filled than the one before, pouring his heart out with each note. The emotions welling up inside confused her, as she let herself become entranced by his baritone voice. Fear and happiness pooled in her eyes, releasing in tears that slid over her cheeks.
They met for the first time tonight in person yet it felt like they had known each other all their lives. Their electronic relationship manifesting into something real and tangible excited her, but also scared her to death.
The keys stopped dancing, and the room held a silence marred only by the heaving of Jake’s breath. Reopening her eyes, Emma turned her head toward him. His fingertips pressed against her jaw line, guiding her head as he leaned in. Their lips met with a cautious tenderness. She swung her body around on the seat, raising her hands to encompass his neck. He pulled her closer, parting her lips as he swept his tongue over hers. An innate ache pulsed through her, taking over her self-control. His very touch tingled every nerve along the way.
She slipped her fingers through the back of his wavy hair, massaging his head in rhythm with their exploratory kisses. His breathing grew heavier, as he cradled her in his arms. A startling mixture of sharp chords rang out through the air as her back landed against the keys.
Soft laughter danced through their kiss as Jake picked her up by the hips off the bench and placed her on top of the baby grand. Her chest heaved in succession with the thumping of her heart. He stared at her with such intent she’d never seen. His intense eyes hypnotized her, holding her gaze.
“I’ve pictured this a thousand times, but nothing compares to the actual taste of your lips,” he whispered as he laid her back, brushing the chestnut locks of hair from her face. Lush lips caressed her neck, kissing the delicate skin down the plunging neckline of her dress.
Words made no sense. They circulated in her head, jumbled by the emotions coursing through her. Her body ached for him to take her completely as his hands caressed the length of her body, exploring every inch of her, memorizing every curve.
She dreamed about this moment. He wanted her as much as she wanted him. Her head screamed no, she’d only hurt him. But her heart shouted louder as she let her fingers ride up the length of his forearms, pressing against the hard muscle.
“As breathtaking as you look sprawled across my piano, I have a better idea,” he whispered.
Pulling her to him, he slid her off the piano. She wrapped her arms and legs around him as he carried her to the sofa, laying her beneath him. Carefully, he slid the silken dress above her hips, exposing her stomach where he decorated her skin with the warmth of his tongue and lips. A shiver climbed her spine releasing itself in a vocal aching of want and need.
In celebration of the ELUDING ILLUSIONS release, I’m giving away a copy of my other recently released novel, VEXED. Click below to enter the Rafflecopter giveaway!
Where to Buy
Evernight Publishing
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Barnes & Noble
All Romance eBooks
Bookstrand
iBooks
Smashwords
Goodreads
About Wren Michaels
Wren Michaels hails from the frozen tundra of Wisconsin where beer and cheese are their own food groups. But a cowboy swept her off her feet, and carried her away below the Mason-Dixon line where she promptly lost all tolerance for snow and cold. They decided they’d make beautiful babies together and they got it right on the first try. Now Wren lives happily ever after in the real world and in the worlds of her making, where she creates book boyfriends for the masses to crave.
Where to find Wren Michaels
Marvelous Monday Reads: Alpha Gladiator (Warriors of the Arena)
Happy Monday, folks! Getting back to the work week doesn’t have to suck, especially when it means you have Beth D. Carter’s pyroclastic new erotic romance Alpha Gladiator (Warriors of the Arena Book One) waiting for you. Alpha Gladiator is now available from Evernight Publishing and other online retailers of erotic romance. Enjoy!
Okay, I admit it. I fell in love with Spartacus as played by Andy Whitfield in the Starz adaptation. How horrible that he succumbed to non-Hodgkin lymphoma shortly after wrapping up the first season. During the second season, the producers decided to introduce a new gladiator which, in my opinion, was one hot hunk to watch! So when the third season came back, with a new lead to play Spartacus, it didn’t seem such a sad departure from Andy.
I became fascinated by the dynamics of the politics behind the gladiator games. The origin of gladiatorial combat is open to debate. There is evidence of it in funeral rites during the Punic Wars of the 3rd century BC, and thereafter it rapidly became an essential feature of politics and social life in the Roman world. Its popularity led to its use in ever more lavish and costly games. The gladiator games lasted for nearly a thousand years. (Thanks, Wikipedia!)
The Alpha Gladiator was actually written to be part of an anthology, but it came out as too sci-fi, so I switched it to the novella story line, Romance on the Go, for Evernight Publishing. The Spartacus story might have provided the idea, but I moved everything into a futuristic slash paranormal setting. The next story I have planned in this line features more of the slave and gladiator dynamics, not quite so paranormal but still within the realms of mystical. Hopefully that will be written soon, after I wrap up a few other series.
How long have you been writing erotica and what was the passion behind writing this genre?
I was first published in 2009 and have been trying to perfect my craft ever since. I love romance and erotica is just a way of writing romance with no blinders on. It feeds on fantasy and imagination, and I love transporting myself from my own hum-drum life into one of pure sensation. I love being turned on, and so when I write I want my readers to get turned on.
Was there as specific part of the story that you absolutely loved writing as well as not enjoyed writing?
I loved dreaming up a future where the barbaric gladiator games had been resurrected. I used much of the same terminology, same names of places. Bringing a new world to life is one of the more thrilling parts of being a writer because the possibilities are endless.
There wasn’t much in this book I didn’t enjoy writing. I’m a very liner type of writer, meaning I don’t really jump around scenes too much. I start at point A and finish at point Z. So, sometimes just writing the in between stuff, the ordinary day to day, can be tedious because your job is to still make that monotony interesting.
You’ve written in a variety of subgenres. Which is your favorite?
My books are all different, with different genres and different pairings, which is great for my creativity but bad for readers to identify with my work. Personally, I like to think there is something for everyone. But when you hear the name Beth D. Carter what type of book do you think about? Like Lisa Kleypas or Tymber Dalton, when you see their books you know know what they writes. With the publication of my first book I was unsure where I was headed as an author. I knew I wanted to push myself and not fall into one stereotype, at least, not until I discovered where my voice was heading. Sometimes I still feel like I’m test driving every type of genre that I can, but perhaps soon I’ll settle into a pattern.
Ravage is the fierce Alpha of his people, the Lycans. During the mating celebration, while their guards are down, his people are attacked and twelve are captured for the gladiator games of Kappuah, including Aleirah, the woman Ravage wants above all others.
He tries to resist, but he’s unwilling to see his men and his female harmed by the ruthless tyrants of the games. He must make the ultimate sacrifice of taking lives if he’s to protect his people.
But there is one secret no one knows, and Ravage is more than willing to show how some myths are based in truth, by letting his inner wolf come out to destroy all those who enslaved them.
Story Excerpt
“I remember.” He looked around. “You are a compassionate woman. Caring and kind. You would make me a great mate.”
Her mouth dropped open. “Excuse me?”
“A mate. I have been waiting for you to enter the mating ceremony for ten years, Aleirah. Surly you knew that?”
She shook her head. “No. I … ah … no. I don’t think I would make a very good mate for an Alpha.”
“Why would you think that?” he asked, a bit vexed. Ravage was fast learning she could be a little stubborn.
“I’m…” She paused and cleared her throat. “I just don’t think I would.”
“I beg to differ, and I hope you allow me to change your mind.” He stepped closer to her and her breath hitched in her throat. He tilted her face up and her mouth dropped open on a breathless little sigh. The he offered her his elbow. “Would you take a walk with me through the night?”
She bit her bottom lip with her top teeth, and the action had an interesting effect on his dick, which jumped to attention. Ravage could just imagine her sinking her teeth into his shoulder as he thrust into her beautiful body. Hesitantly, she took his arm and as soon as she touched him, he placed his hand on top of hers, trapping her by his side. Now that he had her, he wasn’t about to let her get away.
He pulled her away from both bonfires, into the woods, letting the darkness shroud them. Sometimes it was easier to let go of secrets and fears when the other person was cloaked in shadow. The night had always been a friend of the Lycanis people, so Ravage used the moon to his advantage.
“I remember you from when we were children,” he murmured.
“I remember you too,” she said softly.
He grinned, pleased with her answer. She may deny that she wanted to be his mate, but the pheromones coming off her body indicated otherwise. Aleirah found him desirable. Whether or not she wanted to be his mate, her body had already begun changing to accept his claiming bite. Now, he just had to get her to admit it, and he wasn’t above using seduction on his part.
Where to Buy
Evernight Publishing
Amazon
All Romance eBooks
Bookstrand
Abut Beth D. Carter
I like writing about the very ordinary girl thrust into extraordinary circumstances, so my heroines will probably never be lawyers, doctors or corporate highrollers. I try to write characters who aren’t cookie cutters and push myself to write complicated situations that I have no idea how to resolve, forcing me to think outside the box. I love writing characters who are real, complex and full of flaws, heroes and heroines who find redemption through love. I love to hear from readers so I’ve made it really easy to find me on the web:
Where to find Beth D. Carter
Marvelous Monday Reads: A Conquest Like No Other
Happy Monday, folks! Let’s kick a hot and sultry August off right with the steamy new erotic romance A Conquest Like No Other from Emma Anderson, now available from Evernight Publishing and other online retailers of erotic romance. Enjoy!
When Nikki Greene is kidnapped by a crime boss, the last thing she expects is for an even more dangerous man to rescue her. She’s already survived one brutal attack by a man claiming to care for her. She’s not in the market for love, even though her tattooed hero awakens urges she never expected to feel again—and some she’s never felt before.
Viper, a renowned playboy, doesn’t want a mate. He likes the freedom of taking a different partner to bed each night. But the moment Nikki enters his life, his bachelorhood is doomed. Now he must work past Nikki’s trust issues to win a place in her life and bed. He’s determined to prove that her scars are only skin-deep and together they can have it all.
But trouble is coming for Nikki. A menacing presence lurks on the fringes of her world, waiting for the chance to prove to Nikki that revenge isn’t sweet, but it is deadly. Can Viper save her this time, or will he lose her for good?
Story Excerpt
Nikki slumped with her back against the closed front door. To say she was relieved to see Viper leave was an understatement. Again her hormones reacted to him. Why they had to come to life after three years, she had no idea. And even worse yet, for her best friend’s new brother-in-law. The situation had disaster written all over it. Even if her fear would allow her to make a move on the unsuspecting man, her conscience wouldn’t. As he had pointed out, they were now family. And she couldn’t risk Gabby’s happiness by throwing herself at Viper. It would lead to uncomfortable family gatherings.
Pushing herself off the door, she attempted to eject her sexy rainbow-colored angel out of her mind as she went about getting herself ready for bed. By the time she was snuggled under the blankets, she was exhausted. Half an hour later, sleep still refused her. Her body needed something—something she knew B.O.B. could provide.
Reaching across to her bedside table drawer, she pulled out her purple vibrator. This silicone cock had been the only form of male company her body had allowed over these last three years. And he never disappointed her, except when he ran out of batteries.
Throwing the blankets back, she quickly removed her pajamas. The cool air hit her sensitive nipples, causing them to harden further. They were begging to be teased. Her hand molded around her tiny breast, roughly massaging it. The harsh manhandling had more juices leaking from her already flowing pussy. Her thumb and index finger found her pebbled nipple, pinching it hard.
A groan escaped her as her hips lifted from the mattress, seeking out its partner. The hand that held B.O.B. travelled lower. B.O.B.’s head circled her hypersensitive clit. Electricity raced through her whole being, enticing her orgasm closer to the surface.
As if on its own accord, B.O.B. found her entrance. Scooping up some of her escaped juices, it slowly entered her. Each thrust took her higher, but still it wasn’t enough to take her over the edge. Suddenly Viper’s image popped into her mind. No longer were her fingers pinching and pulling at her nipples. Instead, his mouth had engulfed her breasts, his teeth worrying her nipples and sending shock waves throughout her whole being. As for B.O.B., he had been replaced as well. Viper was carrying her body to the heavens, and she welcomed it. Her imagination took the fantasy further.
Her legs widened, allowing room for Viper’s large body. The thrusts were coming harder and faster. Her orgasm quickly approached, catapulting her over the edge. Still Viper’s body continued to drive into her. Suddenly he pulled out and turned her. With her head on the mattress and her backside in the air, he slammed back into her. At this angle it was enough to encourage another orgasm to make itself known. It danced around the edges, avoiding her pleas for completion. More punishing thrusts were delivered from behind. Then it came, a command her body seemed to be waiting for.
“Come for me, sweetheart.”
Light burst behind her closed eyelids right before she screamed her completion. As she tumbled back to earth she felt tears falling from her eyes. Her head was turned to the side, allowing the sheet and mattress to absorb them. It was then that she realized how uncomfortable she was. True to her fantasy, her backside was in the air, while her head rested upon the bed. One arm held her balanced while the other one was under her body. Her hand was between her legs, holding B.O.B. in her pussy.
As she went about cleaning B.O.B and remaking her bed she expected embarrassment to consume her. It never came. In its place was confusion. How could that fantasy have felt so real? In her mind, she felt his body against hers. Never before had any of her masturbating sessions felt like that.
The man she was trying to view as family had somehow accomplished the impossible. In her mind, he had truly been with her in this bed. Yet the fear that usually accompanied the idea of being sexually involved with a male was absent. How was that possible? Why was he having such an effect on her?
This man with his brightly painted skin and rusty red hair had her craving things she didn’t think were possible to ever want again—a sexual relationship. His messy locks with their just-out-of-bed look called to her fingers. They desperately wanted to delve into his thick mass of hair. His plump, kissable lips had her mouth watering and her chin itching. In her mind she could see the stubble rash that would appear after a kiss from her new fantasy go-to guy. How was she ever going to look at that man again without blushing?
She was glad that she didn’t have to see him every day. Otherwise she suspected her rampant hormones would have her doing something impetuous. With her hormones in overdrive she knew it wouldn’t be long before she threw herself at this man who was only being friendly with her because of Gabby’s relationship with Devil. She needed to minimize her exposure to Viper. It was the only way she wouldn’t embarrass Gabby and herself.
Where to Buy
Evernight Publishing
Amazon
All Romance eBooks
Bookstrand
Where to find Emma Anderson
Bookstrand
Reader’s Email
Author’s Email
Facebook
Blog
Tsu
Google+
Amazon
Goodreads
Manic Readers
Marvelous Monday Reads: Ruled
Happy Monday, folks! Let’s say goodbye to March with J.J. Lore’s Ruled, the brilliant new entry in Evernight Publishing’s Planet Alpha series, now available from Evernight and other online retailers of erotic romance. Enjoy!
While on a clandestine visit to Earth, Prince Edem of Alpha and his bondmate Mallet by chance meet a humble cook who intrigues them. The impulsive prince feels a brief fling with an exotic human female sounds like the perfect way to conclude their travels, while his more pragmatic bondmate urges caution.
Despite all the reasons to avoid her, the Alphans seek her out, intrigued by her prickly pride and defiant disposition. For her part, Corrine is intimidated by these imposing and mysterious alien men, but finds herself overwhelmed by their determined courtship.
Edem and Mallet convince themselves their deepening feelings for Corrine do not have to include bonding, since such a commitment is forbidden by the King and subjects of Alpha, determined to keep the bloodline pure. But when danger threatens, the three are forced to choose between having the galaxy at their feet or losing each other forever.
Story Excerpt
They made her shake. She’d thought it was first with anger, then fear, but as Mal eased his mouth against hers while Edem circled his fingers down her back, she knew she was shaking with lust. How had she gotten here? She’d been so insulted by the gift she’d rushed to them thoughtlessly and had somehow admitted to them she was frightened of sex, but now was barely able to keep on her feet for the heat blooming in her pussy.
Someone’s hands were pulling at the hem of her shirt, and she drew away from Mal to glance down and discover Edem had insinuated his fingertips underneath the material and was now rubbing along her bare waist. Her skin tingled. Mal reached for her buttons and had the front of her shirt open before she realized what was happening. When the cool air reached her nearly exposed breasts, she automatically reached to bring the edges back together, her breath rushing in and out with a mix of desire and caution.
“Let us see and touch. Just here,” Edem said softly as he caressed her lower back. Mal stared at her, his eyes darkening as he gave a slight nod. It was stupid to even consider it, but she seemed to be doing lots of stupid things lately. This could be the test. She could say no and hope they would stop. Would they let her control this? She didn’t want to say no yet, though. She sucked in a breath and urged her stiff fingers to cooperate as she released her grip on the shirt. She was wearing a bra, so she could say no when then tried to remove that final layer and expose her.
Edem let out a sigh and tugged at her sleeves, her blouse falling from her shoulders. She couldn’t stop her shiver as the cool air trickled across her back and stomach. Mal tightened his grip on her waist, and with a start she realized he had a sizeable erection and it was pressed into her belly. Normally, she’d shy away, but somehow knowing how aroused he was pleased her rather than made her anxious.
Mal trailed his fingers along her collarbones. “You’re lovely.”
“So delicate,” Edem chimed in, and she glanced at him, wondering what he thought of her faded, repaired bra. He was a powerful man on his planet and was probably used to women who were perfumed, groomed, and attired in beautiful chiffons and laces. She failed on all counts.
Sliding his hand along her side, Edem cupped one of her breasts, pushing her flesh slightly up. Her nipple contracted in a painful nub, and she inhaled deeply. He ran his thumb over the sensitized bit of flesh, and the material of her bra bit into her.
Mal dipped his head her way, long strands of his dark hair trailing along her bare shoulders. He pressed a kiss to the top swell of the breast Edem was holding, and she shook at the sensation of both of them caressing her in synchronicity. She clenched her hands in confusion. She wanted to touch them but wasn’t sure how. She’d always been confused and tense with the few men she’d been with, which had undoubtedly contributed to her discomfort with the act.
Soft lips nibbled at her neck, and she leaned away from him, not to avoid the touch as she should, but to allow him more room. The ticklish sensations crept over her nerves, and she compulsively reached up to clutch at Edem’s head, her fingers sinking into his surprisingly silky hair. He bit her throat gently in response, and a surprised moan burst from her. Before she could think further, Mal had fastened his mouth over her nipple and pressed his teeth to the sensitized flesh. Her whole body jolted uncontrollably, and she cried out, unable to hold back the sound of surprise and excitement.
“It would be better without this,” Edem whispered in her ear as he ran his fingers under the shoulder strap of her bra. Mal rumbled against her breast, and she reached her other hand out to trace into his hair, careful to avoid those curving horns. “May I?”
Where to Buy
Evernight Publishing
Amazon
All Romance eBooks
Bookstrand
About J.J. Lore
J.J. Lore needs three things; strong, black coffee, time to write, and…well…you can guess the third. When she isn’t inventing fantastical tales filled with passionate people, she’s shaking sriracha on whatever she’s eating or reading about the Justinian plague. For updates on her bestselling erotic romance releases, visit her at http://mllesnarratif.com/j-j-lore/ or follow on Twitter.
Marvelous Monday Reads: A Centaur’s Solstice Wish
Hello, and welcome to this spandy new edition of Marvelous Monday Reads! I’m betting we can all get through this chilly February Monday with some help from the hot M/M paranormal erotic romance A Centaur’s Solstice Wish by the lovely and talented Siobhan Muir, now out from Three Lakes Books.
Read and enjoy!
When making wishes on the Hunter’s star…
It will take more than wishes to improve Sedgewick Icetrotter’s Solstice. After being sent to the infirmary, again, for dislocating his shoulder while stringing his bow, he figures he’s got a snowball’s chance in hell to impress the centaur he loves. Until Corporal Ronin Creekjumper brings in two injured centaurs suffering from unusual insect bites, and Sedgewick knows how to treat them.
Ronin can’t believe his good luck when Sedgewick saves his men. It also gives him a chance to do more than light candles for his injured friend. Ronin takes the chance and invites Sedgewick to spend the Solistice holiday together. Just the two of them.
And a pack of hungry dire wolves who’d like to put Sedgewick on the menu. Who says Solstice can’t be exciting?
Story Excerpt
Ronin had never been so glad to see his injured soldier in his life. Sedgewick Icetrotter constituted one of the worst soldiers he’d ever trained, but he’d shown determination and persistence despite his setbacks. When he’d dislocated his left shoulder trying to string a bow, Ronin had seen the defeat in the younger centaur’s face along with the pain. Ronin’s heart ached for him, but he’d kept his words to himself. No need to compound his shame.
Now Sedgewick stepped forward, arm in a sling, with more confidence Ronin than had ever seen him display, and some of his tension melted away. By the Goddess, let him be able to do this. Ronin rarely prayed, but he wanted the best for Sedgewick. The man had a gentleness and beauty Ronin had never seen in any other centaur, and some part of him wanted to preserve that. It would be ruined by fighting and war.
“What do we do, Sedgewick?” Bethany fixed her green-brown gaze on the buckskin stallion. “Do you know what caused the welts?”
“Yes, Master Bethany. They’re called winter lace stars and they have a bad toxin that shuts down the organs if there are enough of them.” Sedgewick ran his hands lightly over the welts on Navarro’s arm and the man groaned. “We’re going to have to make an antidotal salve and smooth it over each of them.”
“Do you know what goes into the salve?”
“Yes. My granddam taught me.” He grimaced and wouldn’t meet Ronin’s gaze. “The problem is I can’t make it with only one arm.”
Ronin gripped Sedgewick’s shoulder. “I’ll help you. Just tell me what you need done and I can be your extra hands.”
Both Bethany and Sedgewick gaped at Ronin for a moment. Hellfire, he’d surprised himself with the outburst, but he wouldn’t go back on his offer. His men needed him and he’d do anything he could. And if you’re really honest with yourself, you’d admit you want to spend a little time with Sedgewick.
Bethany was the first to recover. “Thank you, Corporal. That will be very helpful.” She nodded to the injured men. “First, I’ll need you to get these men stripped so we can see the extent of the damage.”
Ronin stuffed his disappointment behind a sharp nod. “Will do.”
“Good. Sedgewick, please show me what you need and let’s get started.”
While Ronin helped the other soldiers to undress Navarro and Colver, he kept Sedgewick in sight as the buckskin directed Bethany in a soft but sure voice. The men moaned when they lifted their shirts and armor, and he cringed in sympathy. Great, swollen welts spread across their backs from skull to tail, disfiguring them in red sores.
Medicinal scents accompanied the grind of a pestle against a mortar bowl, and Ronin turned just as Bethany called for him.
“Can you please grind this while I prepare the salve base, Corporal?”
“Yes, of course, Master Healer.”
Ronin took the pestle as the human woman gave him a friendly smile and he tried to smile back, but Sedgewick’s presence beside him made it difficult. Oh, for the love of Epona, I should be able to do one simple task. He bent to it, putting his strength and focus into the action of grinding the medicinal herbs. He almost jumped when someone laid a hand on his forearm.
“Firmly, but gently, Corporal. Marble isn’t as good as the herbs for healing.” Sedgewick’s voice held amusement as well as warmth.
Heat blossomed across Ronin’s cheeks and chest. “Forgive me, Sedgewick. My concern is with my men.”
Sedgewick lost his smile and nodded, releasing Ronin. “Of course, Corporal. But if you grind them too much, they lose potency.” Sedgewick nodded to the mortar. “I think they’re ready. Bring them to the fire, please.”
Ronin regretted his words immediately and cursed himself for a nervous fool, but dutifully followed the buckskin soldier and swept the crushed herbs into a pot of boiling water. Sedgewick nodded and stirred them with a soothing rhythm, his good arm flexing in ways that set Ronin’s heart galloping. Sweet Goddess, what I’d give to feel his arms around me.
Ronin mentally balked at the uncharacteristically tender thoughts and shook his head. “Must you keep stirring?” The question came out harsh, but Sedgewick smiled.
“Yes. It’s necessary to boil them down to their essences.” He shrugged. “Long work, but worth the effort.”
He stood beside Sedgewick, watching him stir the pot of herbs in a companionable silence. His motions added a level of comfort to Ronin’s world, an unusual sensation, and one he’d sorely missed. It reminded him of times spent with his dam while just a wee colt, when she’d ruffled his hair and told him he’d someday find a mare of his own to stable.
Ronin mentally shook his head. Despite his mother’s prediction, he’d never been interested in mares or mating. His focus had been on the military life with his brothers-in-arms. He’d striven to be the best soldier and leader to those who depended on him. It had been all he needed.
Until now.
Where to Buy
Amazon
All Romance eBooks
Smashwords
About Siobhan Muir
Siobhan Muir lives in Cheyenne, Wyoming, with her husband, two daughters, and a vegetarian cat she swears is a shape-shifter, though he’s never shifted when she can see him. When not writing, she can be found looking down a microscope at fossil fox teeth, pursuing her other love, paleontology. An avid reader of science fiction/fantasy, her husband gave her a paranormal romance for Christmas one year, and she was hooked for good.
In previous lives, Siobhan has been an actor at the Colorado Renaissance Festival, a field geologist in the Aleutian Islands, and restored inter-planetary imagery at the USGS. She’s hiked to the top of Mount St. Helens and to the bottom of Meteor Crater.
Siobhan writes kick-ass adventure with hot sex for men and women to enjoy. She believes in happily ever after, redemption, and communication, all of which you will find in her paranormal romance stories.
Siobhan’s latest release, A Centaur’s Solstice Wish, is the second story in her new Rifts series. She has published A Hell Hound’s Fire (a free read), The Beltane Witch, and Cloudburst Ice Magic in the Cloudburst Colorado series. Siobhan has also published Bronco’s Rough Ride and The Navy’s Ghost in the Bad Boys of Beta Squad series, Not a Dragon’s Standard Virgin and Queen Bitch of the Callowwood Pack through Siren Publishing, and Her Devoted Vampire through Evernight Publishing.
Where to find Siobhan Muir
Website
Blog
Google Plus
Facebook
Twitter
Tsu.co
Goodreads
Pinterest
All Romance
Amazon
Bookstrand
Marvelous Monday Reads: Moon Dance
Hello, and welcome to Marvelous Monday Reads! Today we have Michaela Rhua on to talk about her sizzling new erotic romance Moon Dance, now available from Evernight Publishing and other online retailers of erotic romance. Here’s what she has to say about her book:
Thank you for having me on your blog.
I don’t know what the New Year has brought for you, but for me comes a new release. Moon Dance. So what’s the story about? It is the usual girl meets girl and love begins to bloom. The problem is Raya and Amari are from opposite sides of the community and mistrust has always been a key factor between the two sides. What do you do when you are attracted to your enemy? After all Love is love, whatever shapes, colour or gender it comes in. It’s one of those times when you have to hold onto what you have just found – the chemistry between the two is strong but will it withstand the discovery related to Raya’s past? The finger points to her new love. So what next?
I will leave you with a teaser.
A quick pick up and a night of sex was just what Raya was looking for. Only meeting Amari set her insides on fire and she had to have more of this Indian beauty. Witches and shifters aren’t meant to bond only Raya and Amari can’t ignore the chemistry flowing between them. Trouble strikes the lovers when a past trauma hits Raya and Amari’s mother could be to blame. Finally Raya has a chance to get even with the old witch, who destroyed her life. When that revenge reveals that Raya’s past holds secrets she wasn’t aware of, it throws into question everything she believes in. Can the lovers unite to help Raya find her true self or is it all too late?
Story Excerpt
“My mom practices a lot of the traditional methods she learnt as a child in India. People here call it the Craft, some use Wiccan to describe how they live.”
Raya was momentarily surprised, and then came to her senses when she thought about trying to explain her own background.
“Did that shock you?” Amari asked, stopping by her car.
“Not at all. I can trade your weird for my weird any day.” Raya smiled at Amari and was straight away captured by her brown eyes, reminding her of her orgasmic fantasy. Her pussy clenched just thinking about it again.
“Hey, I’m up for a trade anytime.” Amari giggled.
Raya watched her brown eyes sparkle as she giggled. It was beautiful, even the sound of her voice was like music to Raya’s ears. She reached out and stroked Amari’s cheek.
“Hmm, silky soft.” Raya leaned forward and met no resistance.
Amari’s pink, plump lips looked inviting. Raya brushed hers lightly across Amari’s who parted them slightly and her hand went to Raya’s waist. This was the green light that Raya wanted. She didn’t hesitate but continued to brush her lips against Amari’s until she felt Amari’s hand squeeze her waist. Then she deepened the kiss. She tasted and possessed as she let her tongue delve into Amari’s mouth, where she was met with equal enthusiasm by Amari’s tongue. Raya captured the tongue being offered and sucked, enjoying the wetness and the way Amari’s hands grabbed at her waist, bringing their bodies closer. Raya stroked Amari’s hair then fisted it in her hand. Her other hand stroked Amari’s breast, which was just as she imagined, full and overflowing in her hand. Raya’s pussy tingled, wanting in on the action.
A buzzing noise interrupted the moment. It was Amari’s phone. Raya stopped and Amari reached into her bag to pull out her phone to answer the call.
Where to Buy
Evernight Publishing
Amazon
Amazon UK
All Romance eBooks
About Michaela Rhua
Michaela Rhua always dreamed of writing but this never happened until she met the lovely group of ladies known as UCW. Their passion for writing and encouragement inspired her to see if she could do it too. Now she is multi published and loves writing!
She has teenage children who also keep her busy. However, it is whilst travelling into work that she has time to create her characters and imagine other places in which they exist as her world skims by the window. Conversations overheard often lead to the birth of new ideas that she scribbles down in her trusty notebook.
Where to find Michaela Rhua
Marvelous Monday Reads: Journey Across Time
Hello, and welcome to this holiday edition of Marvelous Monday Reads, angels! Let’s warm up the last Monday before 2015 with the smouldering time travel erotic romance Journey Across Time by C.R. Moss. This is what C.R. has to say about her series:
Hi all! Thank you for having me here today! 🙂
I’m pleased to share information about my new release, Journey Across Time, and the first book, Dream Across Time, with everyone. Journey Across Time is the second book in a renewed series of mine, which is now called Raritan Manor Ranch.
Many years ago in a state far away (Texas at that time), I started to write romance. Before that, as some of you may already know, I’d been into writing horror. Still am, but that’s a tale for another day under my other pen name. Anyway, at that time, I came up with ideas for a few stories that revolved around a particular family and a matchmaking cat who all lived in New Jersey. New Jersey is where I’d been born (even more years ago) and raised.
There was a house and piece of property up the road from my family’s place that I’d been enamored with and considered buying if it were ever to find itself on the market. Obviously, I never did make that particular real estate purchase since I live over two thousand miles away from it now, but I did the next best thing. I used it as the house in the series, though please note, I’ve taken artistic liberties with its architectural plans. 😉 The house on the cover does resemble what it looks like in real life. One of the pics I’ve included for this post is a blurry one, taken when hubby and I drove past it one day.
Some of you might notice that the first two stories (and the third one once it becomes available) seem familiar. The first three books in the Raritan Manor Ranch series had found a publishing home once upon a time, but alas, as some relationships go, that wasn’t meant to be a lifetime one. Back in their ex’s home, they had different titles and a different series name. Now the books have been given new life through Evernight Publishing. The fictional house and family in the stories have relocated to Nevada, word count has been added, the stories have been re-edited, and the current series title pays homage to a river in NJ that I grew up near. And, yes, the cat (who is modeled after my own fur baby) still plays a part in the stories.
Thanks for giving me a few minutes of your time! I do hope you’ll check out this series and my other books. 🙂 You can find the first book, Dream Across Time, here: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/dream-across-time-by-c-r-moss/
There is magic on the ranch.
A woman examining life. A man on a quest. Time restores his spirit and her love.
Trent, a man in the past on a mission to discover where he belongs, embarks on a spiritual journey. His spirit guide, to his dismay, is a frisky feline named Myrddin. During a ritual, the cat brings the soul searcher forward into Julie VanAlder’s world.
Julie is attracted to the newcomer on the ranch, but his strange mannerisms and speech dictate she use caution, especially when she learns where he’s from. A botched relationship, supposed time travel, spiritual mumbo jumbo…it’s almost too much for Julie to take.
Can Trent make her believe in destiny and win her love before it’s too late?
Story Excerpt
But now Trent doesn’t even look like he was ever affected by the car ride. Amazed at how much energy he had, she sat up and crossed her legs. Boy, what a sight he is.
Trent, shirtless and showing off his built body, strolled from the water, moving with precision. The women around her tittered, whispering fast and lewd phrases about “the hunk.” Her gaze swung to one group of females whose attentions and words confirmed their obvious appraisals of the man. She looked back at Trent. His quadriceps rippled with each stride, fighting against the sand’s resistance. He stopped and wiped his forehead. Beads of water trailed down his light brown skin, glistening on him like pixie dust. He bent over, then quickly straightened. His long black hair made an arc in the air, casting off the seawater. Trent ran his fingers through his slick and shiny locks.
Poseidon come to life. Beautiful Greek god incarnate. Julie sighed. No wonder he’s making the women flap their lips. If one of her girlfriends were nearby, she’d be chatting up a storm with them about him too.
Her pussy warmed, as did her breasts. He seemed to be a heady dose of sizzling hormones just by looking at him, making her body flush with desire that rolled into a burning need.
She shook her head. Stop thinking about how handsome he is! Just friends. That’s all it can be. With him or any man since I don’t want my heart broken again.
He sauntered over and retrieved a bottle of water from a cooler. After taking a long draught, he proceeded to dump the water over his head. He ran his fingers through his wet hair again. A mischievous glint twinkled in his eyes. His gaze traveled over her, then to the other sunbathers around them. A smile lit his face and faint lines creased around his deep brown eyes, slanted provocatively.
She lifted an eyebrow. “What’s that look for?”
He chuckled. “I am astounded by all the scantily clad women…showing much more than just an ankle.” He watched a tall, thin blonde dressed in a bikini walk by, his head turning as she passed. “How decadent and scandalous…arousing, actually. I may not be able to contain myself.” His gaze whipped back to Julie and he winked.
Drawn to him by his charm, Julie rolled her eyes and smiled back. She couldn’t help it. Talk about arousing. His six-pack abs were right there, two feet from her face. All she’d have to do was lean forward, extend her hand, trail a finger along the dark divots of the muscles.
Where to Buy
Evernight Publishing
Amazon
All Romance eBooks
Bookstrand
About C.R. Moss
An eccentric and eclectic writer, C.R. Moss pens stories for the mainstream and erotic romance markets, giving readers Worlds of Possibilities.
So what does she write? She writes stories from the light and sweet to the dark and deadly with varying degrees of sexual heat. Writing as C.R. Moss gives her and her muses the freedom to explore worlds of possibilities when it comes to love. And where does the tag line “Love & Lust in the Wild West” fit in? Well, for one, she lives in NV. Two, her stories take place, either in part or in full, in and around the Las Vegas area. In fact, even this website sports “a look of home.” The background picture was taken in an area just a few miles west of Las Vegas and happens to be the inspiration for the setting of the Double D Ranch Tales saga.
She also has a passion for penning dark fiction. Writing under the name Casey Moss allows her to slate other stories under Horror ~ Paranormal ~ Suspense ~ Thriller ~ Urban Fantasy. Visit: http://caseymossbooks.com
Where to find C.R. Moss
Website
Blog
Facebook
Twitter
Goodreads
Pinterest
Romance Readers’ Conference in Las Vegas, NV! – HMK October 2015 – Come see C. Moss & other wonderful authors – http://www.hotmojaveknights.com
Marvelous Monday Reads: The Bear Treatment
Welcome to another edition of Marvelous Monday Reads, pumpkins! Today I’m featuring Doris O’Connor and her yummy bear shifter novel The Bear Treatment. And now, here’s Doris!
Thanks so much for having me here today with my new release The Bear Treatment.
There is nothing worse than being dumped by your boyfriend is there, even if that person turned out to be a right schmuck. Louisa doesn’t have much luck in the boyfriend department, mainly, because the one man she really wants is way, way, way out of her league—or so she thinks.
In her words…
He was so way out of her league it wasn’t even real. Not only because he was very much a Dom, but also because Louisa didn’t have the first clue how to be what he looked for in a woman. After all, he would no doubt want to settle with another shifter like himself.
Somehow she didn’t think a smart mouthed, overweight, thirty-something, fresh out of yet another failed relationship, screw-up like her, would be his idea of the perfect submissive.
Little does she know that this Dom has just been biding his time and when she turns up in his spa, ready to experience a taste of the lifestyle, she is in for the bear treatment…
There’s nothing quite like being dumped by another good-for-nothing boyfriend to focus a girl’s mind. Fun has been missing from Louisa’s life for far too long, and a bit of wax play at the spa-with-a-difference is just what she needs to take her mind off her birthday.
What can possibly go wrong? It’s not as though the man she’s been secretly lusting after for years would turn up and see her in all of her wobbly bits glory, or give her one mind blowing orgasm after the other, is it?
That would mean she is getting the bear treatment. You know the one—ends up being mated to one droolworthy, dominant, bear shifter—and ticks off the council no end. One thing’s for certain. After this birthday nothing will be the same again.
Story Excerpt
When he bit down on her clit her orgasm rushed through her with so much force that she screamed and bit her lip hard enough to taste her own blood, in an effort to muffle that scream.
They were on top of a crowded restaurant, for God’s sake. If she turned her head she could see the people dining below. All it would take was for one of them to look up and they would see her sprawled along the table with Luke once again lapping at her cream as she gushed her juices into his waiting mouth. The thought that one of the diners would look up, made her orgasm burn hotter, and with her body still shaking in delicious aftershocks she almost didn’t notice the slight pressure against her little puckered hole until Luke slipped a slick finger wet with her own arousal knuckle deep into her ass.
She would have bowed off the table had his hot hand on her tummy not held her down, and she lost herself in the heated stare of his golden eyes as their gazes connected.
“That’s my girl.” His voice had dropped an octave, dripping in lust, and her body went limp under his possession. “This ass and this pussy are mine to do with as I please are they not, my sweet Lou?”
He pushed deeper into her butt, and she gasped at the burning pain of another finger slipping past that ring of muscle. Discomfort gave way to heat when he started to thrust those two fingers in and out of their tight confines, and added the thumb of his other hand to her clit and rubbed that sensitive bundle of nerves in small circles designed to push her over the edge once more.
The strange sensation in her ass awakened unused nerve endings, and she clamped around his digits, increasing the heady sensations bombarding her.
“That’s it, my sweet. Ride those fingers. I can’t wait to see your little hole stretched with a butt plug to prepare you for my cock, and you will let me take you back here, won’t you?”
The veins on his neck stood out, his smile showed his fangs, and with the eyes of his bear looking down on her he never looked more the wild animal he had inside than right now. The thought should have terrified Louisa, but instead it had the opposite effect on her. She was his prey, his for the taking, and the thought turned her on even more.
“Yes, yes, God yes, I’m yours to do with as you please, Sir.”
Her whispered answer made him step up his assault on her senses, and everything inside of her drew tight as she climbed up those rungs of lust until the world narrowed to just the feel of his fingers in her ass, and his big body covering her.
Luke bent closer, not once slowing his fingers as they fucked her into another orgasm, and then he kissed her. His tongue mimicked the action of his digits, and she kissed him back until her lungs screamed at her they needed air, as her body shook in the grip of the tremors wracking through her. She winced when he withdrew his fingers from the tight clasp of her ass, and then gasped when he shrugged out of his shirt. The man’s torso was magnificent and sprinkled with liberal amounts of hair that she wanted to run her fingers through. His pectorals flexed as he threw the shirt across the room, and she let her gaze admire the play of muscles. The way his hair thickened to a dark trail that acted like a beacon to his magnificent cock. Despite her earlier attention to that particular body part, he was once again erect. Veins ran along the length of the impressive organ, and the thick mushroom head glistened in the muted lighting of the room. Louisa licked her lips, suddenly desperate for another taste of his salty musk, and Luke laughed. Low and menacing, the sound was more animal than human, and set her arousal to fever pitch.
“Not this time, my sweet. This time I want to bury my cock into your tight cunt. I want to see your lips stretched around my girth, as you struggle to take all of me, but you will, won’t you, pet? You’ll milk my cock like the good little subbie you are, and you’ll gush your cream all over my dick again and again, won’t you?”
“Yes, Sir.” How she managed to force the words past her kiss swollen lips she would never know. Her gaze was riveted to his cock, where Luke was fisting himself slowly. He squeezed the tip of his dick until his pre-cum slid on his fingers and with a wicked grin held those digits up to her mouth.
Louisa opened up eagerly, only too willing to taste him again, and she groaned when he hooked those fingers inside her mouth holding her in place while he ran the tip of his erection through her wet slit repeatedly. He bumped into her clit at every upstroke, sending jolts of electricity through her system, and her nostrils flared as she tried to breathe through her nose.
“Look at me, pet.”
His rough command made her eyes snap to his again, and she swallowed hard around the digits in her mouth. The intensity of his golden gaze was hard to take, as he pinned her in place with the sheer force of his will.
“You’re mine, and when I sink my cock into your cunt, I’m going to sink my fangs into your flesh and mark you as mine.”
Where to Buy
Evernight Publishing
Amazon
Amazon UK
All Romance eBooks
Bookstrand
About Doris O’Connor
Glutton for punishment would be a good description for Doris… at least that’s what she hears on an almost daily basis when people find out that she has a brood of nine children, ranging from adult to toddler and lives happily in a far too small house, cluttered with children, pets, dust bunnies, and one very understanding and supportive husband. Domestic goddess she is not.
There is always something better to do after all, like working on the latest manuscript and trying not to scare the locals even more than usual by talking out loud to the voices in her head. Her characters tend to be pretty insistent to get their stories told, and you will find Doris burning the midnight oil on a regular basis. Only time to get any peace and quiet and besides, sleep is for wimps.
She likes to spin sensual, sassy, and sexy tales involving alpha heroes to die for, and heroines who give as good as they get. From contemporary to paranormal, BDSM to F/F, and Ménage, haunting love stories are guaranteed.
Where to find Doris O’Connor
Website
Blog
Twitter
Facebook
Pinterest
Evernight Publishing
Amazon
All Romance E-Books
BookStrand
Barnes & Noble
Marvelous Monday Reads: A Second Chance
Hello, and welcome to another edition of Marvelous Monday Reads, angels! Today I’m featuring Iyana Jenna and her smoking new Romance on the Go story A Second Chance, now available from Evernight Publishing. Read on!
Chance Devereux and Ryder Adkins have worked on the same TV series for three years and share a house near the set. Yet Chance can only watch from afar when Ryder gets engaged. Even though Chance is still deep in the closet, he can’t help be jealous.
Since the first day of shooting, Ryder has had his sights on his costar, but Chance has a girlfriend and Ryder thinks Chance is straight. After years without a concrete result, Ryder decides to forget his desire to be with Chance and go back to Mike.
During a hiatus, Chance does an interview with journalist, Sebastian Vanderbilt. Sebastian opens Chance’s eyes, and he decides he needs to make Ryder his. Can they work it out, or are they all out of retakes?
Story Excerpt
Without waiting for Mike’s answer, he slid his phone open and scrolled down to Chance’s number. Ryder glanced briefly at Mike, who simply nodded and turned away to give him a semblance of privacy. Ryder turned his attention back to the call he was making and nearly jerked in anticipation when it was answered.
“Hey. Chance, it’s—”
“I’m sorry, but Chance can’t answer the phone right now.”
Ryder’s eyes bulged. Taken aback, he swallowed. “W-what? Who is this?”
“May I ask who’s speaking, please?”
“It’s, uh, Ryder. I’m his, his best friend—”
“Oh, Ryder. Sure.”
Ryder lifted an eyebrow when the man laughed a little.
“Chance talks a lot about you,” the man went on.
“Thanks, but….” Ryder’s eyes flickered to Mike, who was observing him closely. His mind began to wander to places he didn’t want to go. How could he not? The man had Chance’s cell. “Where is he? Do you mind if I talk to him?”
“No, of course not.” The man sighed. “But he really can’t.”
“What? What happened? What have you done to him?”
“Whoa, wait a second. I’ve done nothing to him. But he’s asleep right now. He hasn’t been able to sleep for some time. He’s been in so much pain he couldn’t even rest.”
Ryder slumped in his seat, rubbing his face. “Oh, God.” Mike had been right. Feeling lightheaded, Ryder whispered into the mouthpiece. “What’s wrong with him? God, is he okay now?”
“Yeah, I truly hope so. He’s much calmer now. He caught a stomach bug a couple of days ago.”
“And you’re—you’re Sebastian, right? Sebastian Vanderbilt? I saw the pictures.”
“That’s me. Oh, and Ryder?”
“Yes?”
“I heard about your engagement. Congratulations, man.”
“Well, I don’t—”
“Hey, look,” Sebastian cut him off. “I’d love to talk to you, but I really have to go. I’ll tell Chance that you called, okay?”
“Wait, Sebastian. I’m just… you know, I—” But it was too late. Sebastian had hung up. Sucking in a breath, Ryder could only gawk in disbelief.
****
Sebastian didn’t know for sure why he felt reluctant to talk to Ryder. He had no reason to feel threatened by him, though if the way Chance talked about Ryder in the interview was anything to go by, Sebastian might have to consider how he felt toward the guy. This was such a new thing for him, feeling insecure. He wasn’t that kind of guy. Sebastian wondered what Chance had done to him.
Back in the guestroom where Chance was resting, Sebastian found him awake. Chance’s gaze wandered, his expression half-studying his surroundings, half-wondering how or why he was there in the first place. He turned to Sebastian only when he heard him clear his throat. Warmth surged in Sebastian’s heart at the fleeting blush on Chance’s freckled face. He wondered what Chance thought about the room. Sebastian loved his place, but perhaps it was childish to want to hear what Chance had to say about it.
Sebastian went to sit next to Chance, reaching out to feel his brow.
Chance groaned, shying away. “I’m not a child, Sebastian.”
“No.” Sebastian smiled. “But you gave me quite a scare.”
“Sorry.” Chance looked down.
“Hey, that’s not your fault. You were sick and obviously you hadn’t fully recovered when you left the hospital. How are you feeling now?”
“Much better.” Chance licked his lips.
“Water?”
“Please.”
Sebastian watched Chance drink slowly, and when he pulled back, some drips still clung to his lower lip. Sebastian knew he’d been staring, and he completely ignored the glass shoved back into his palm. Finally, he chuckled, put the glass away on the nightstand, and took off his shirt.
Chance’s eyes widened before they darkened a bit.
“May I?” Sebastian gestured toward a space on Chance’s huge, fluffy pillow.
Chance shifted a little to give him more room, much to his delight. He slipped under the cover and could feel Chance stiffen slightly. His face—mere inches from Sebastian’s—was taut before he relaxed and snuggled into Sebastian’s bare chest. Chance’s body felt sleep warm under his thin T-shirt, and Sebastian braved Chance’s reaction and slid a hand under it. He palmed Chance’s flat abs and up to his muscled torso, sighing appreciatively at the deep moan wrenched out of Chance’s throat.
“Beautiful,” Sebastian said huskily. “Very beautiful.” He tweaked a nipple and was rewarded with the stretched column of Chance’s smooth neck as he threw his head back, lips parting, his guttural growl sending Sebastian’s blood to his groin.
Where to Buy
Evernight Publishing
Amazon
Bookstrand
Barnes & Noble
All Romance Ebooks
About Iyana Jenna
Iyana writes M/M short stories and novellas. Her works have been published by Evernight Publishing, JMS Books, Books to Go Now, Torquere Press, Bitten Press, Leap of Faith Publishing, Breathless Press, and Alfie Dog Fiction.
Iyana lives in Jakarta, a city famous for its traffic jams, a lot of cars and motorcycles, and people selling stuff on the roads. You can spend two hours on the road going to a place you can reach in half an hour in a normal situation. Thanks to the traffic jams, though, Iyana can come up with a lot of stories, mostly shorties, as she prefers to spend the time during her trips writing into her cell phone rather than sleeping.
Another thing Iyana loves is kitties. Right now she has three of them. Their names are Cil, Horus, and Betsy, and one kitten. When she doesn’t write, she plays with them, or they would play with her when she writes.
Where to find Iyana Jenna
Marvelous Monday Reads: The Beginning (Witches of the Bayou)
Hello, and welcome to another edition of Marvelous Monday Reads, angels! Today I’m featuring Cherrie Mack and her delicious Free Read The Beginning (Witches of the Bayou), now available from Evernight Publishing and other fine retailers of erotic romance. Read on!
First, I would like to thank my hostess for having me as a guest today. I am thrilled to be here.
My newest read is free, courtesy of Evernight Publishing. This paranormal romance is based on a character from A Late Summer Bloom. It occurred to me, Cecily Jareau, needed her story told. Why was she so jaded? What caused her to hate her royal coven? Why did she want to walk away from her power and her witchhood?
Because her story comes to a satisfying conclusion in A Late Summer Bloom, I thought it would be fun to go back, just a little and tell the story of how it all began. After all, don’t we all love to fall in love? That no holds barred, can’t keep our hands to ourselves, butterflies in the belly kinda love?
Yeah, me too. My hope is you take the time to download and read, The Beginning-Witches Of The Bayou and love it as much as I loved writing it.
A young and powerful witch of royal birthright longs to be human. When she meets a human man who gives her the love she’s never known, her decision to renounce her heritage is an easy one. But, not everything is what it seems.
This exciting, short story is a prequel to A Late Summer Bloom—Witches Of The Bayou.
Story Excerpt
Cecily sat at Al’s House of Blue’s for the fifth night in a row. She sat in the same seat sipping the same drink and watching James play his trumpet. Having a date afterward had become a welcome routine. She was falling hard for the dashing, swoon-worthy musician and her libido had suddenly awakened from its life of hibernation. Wanting him on every level, not just physical, had her worried.
Did she dare to dream he felt the same way? He certainly gave off a territorial vibe when it came to her. And although being human was James’ advantage, it served as his drawback as well. The fact remained, she was a witch—a witch of royal status. The covens wouldn’t allow her to renounce her origins so easily.
She sighed. James hadn’t even kissed her yet and here she was thinking of a life outside the boundaries of magic.
“You look far away tonight. Everything okay?” James stood near, his aftershave soothing her anxiety.
“I’m fine.”
He pulled a chair up close to her and sat down, taking her hands in his. “No. You were thinking about something that made you sad. I could see it in your eyes.”
“And that bothers you?”
“It bothers me a great deal.”
She stared at his mouth, licking her lips. “Why?” And why haven’t you kissed me?
Without warning, swift and certain, James leaned in and kissed her lips. The contact surprised her, making her pull back. But as she leaned away, he leaned forward, not allowing her to move out of his reach. His lips claimed her, branding her with a fiery passion she never experienced. The crowd was no longer a consequence as she returned his affection. Their tongues entwined in a blistering exchange sending a mass of intense impulses bolting through her blood.
The velvety texture of his mouth was more than she could stand. His tongue, hot and slick, moved in a sinuous rhythm, owning her, imprinting his being within her heart. This wasn’t a kiss—this was a declaration. And Cecily wanted more of it. When he pulled away, she felt exposed, like a raw bundle of nerves left unprotected in the smoky atmosphere.
Applause could be heard from behind her, the audience clapping at their display. The glorious feeling disappeared quickly when Cecily recognized Brigitte standing at the back of the room. James leaned over to whisper in her ear. “After this set is over—I wanna do that again.”
She gave him a nervous smile. “Yes. I’d like that. But right now, I need to use the powder room.” She fanned herself, gave him a wink and rose up on wobbly legs. When she headed for the ladies room she saw Brigitte fall in step behind her.
After they waited for it to clear out, Brigitte leveled a stern look at her. “A human man? Really?”
Cecily stood with her hands on her hips. “James. His name is James. And yes I want a human man because ultimately, I want to be human.”
Brigitte’s eyes widened as if Cecily had committed the worst of sins. “They are unworthy. Not just of a witch but—but you? You have aristocratic blood in your veins. You can’t be serious.”
“Oh I’m serious. Neither you, nor Percy and his band of blue-blooded bullies are gonna change my mind.”
Brigitte’s facial features relaxed. “We’ll just see about that.” Cecily panicked. She’d been living as a human for over a week, performing no spells, no magic. She washed dishes and clothes and floors. She purchased food at the market, she cooked. And she was comfortable doing all of it. Now, about to embark on a human relationship, so close to a physical, loving connection, an obstacle was thrown in her path.
Just like always. Her life was one big hurdle after another. Happiness was a breath away and once again she was faced with a complication she never saw coming. That kiss should have been one of her happiest moments but was ruined by the mere presence of another of her kind.
Where to Buy
About Cherrie Mack
Cherrie Mack is a multi-published romance author who grew up in Flushing Queens NY, the youngest child of six. The city’s diversity gave her a great appreciation for many different cultures and lifestyles. After love finally claimed the girl from the city and dragged her to the suburban madness of Long Island, she settled into a quiet life with her new husband. Two children and one mini-van later, the family found themselves moving towards the sunny skies of Florida where they currently reside. When she isn’t writing, she is busy chasing her children around, laughing with her husband, struggling to learn meditation and hanging out with her best friend–a mutt named Bailey.
Over the last year, Cherrie has continued to flourish, writing contemporary erotic romance, romantic comedy, urban fantasy and her latest, paranormal romance. Her ability to cross genre’s fuels her imagination and gives her the desire to continue to push her boundaries and branch out as a writer. Although she hasn’t settled into any given sub-genre, she is confident her ability will lead her down the right path.
A member of Romance Writers of America, Cherrie is slowly spreading her wings as a romance author. Look for her books at all digital bookstores such as Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Bookstrand, ITunes, Nook, Kobo and many more.
Nicola Cameron Writes 