Nominations kick off November 1st and voting opens November 17th. Winners will be announced the first week of December.

Last Saturday, rock star hero Shawn Torien from the erotic romance My Biggest Fan took time off of his busy tour schedule to sit with me and discuss the world of rock music. Here’s another excerpt from our interview:

After watching Mötley Crüe’s video for the song Kickstart my Heart, he slouches further in the comfy chair and crosses his black army boots on the table between us.

A large grin lights his handsome baby face. “Whew.”

I nod, heart racing from both the kick-ass music and the spark of excitement in his dark doe eyes. “Yeah, what a rush! But Shawn, you didn’t answer my question. I asked what Nikki Sixx means to you. Is he the one who inspired you to pick up the bass?”

He sucks on his cigarette for a moment, pensive, before blowing out a long chain of smoke. “Hmm… Nikki and the boys intrigued me with their outrageous lifestyle, that’s for sure. I wanted to do the same, be the same. Have easy access to the dope and the girls and the fame.”

“Yes, but did Nikki influence your choice of instrument?”

“No. I mean, he’s a great musician, like many others out there, but the one who made me want to play the bass was Gene Simmons from KISS. In the 70s, before the Hottest Band in the World turned disco, and pop, later.”

“Oh, yeah. Gene the Demon.” I picture the bad-ass God of Shock Rock with the black and white make-up, platform boots and variety of iconic costumes and stage antics. Drooling blood, breathing fire, flying high above the ecstatic audience…

“Yep. He’s  one mean bassist.” I smile and resist the urge to stick out my tongue like in my childhood days to see how long it would go.

“He’s a larger-than-life persona, too. The guy is a rock giant. He not only influenced hundreds of musicians like me, but wrote lyrics, composed and sang half of the band’s songs as well. He’s a talented solo artist, music producer, film and reality show actor, published author, business man, etc.”

“And…?”

“What?”

“Are you forgetting his most famous talent?” I tease with a wink.

He raises an eyebrow, studies me.

“Bedding I don’t know how many thousands of women!”

“Ah, yeah.” He grins. “The one thing I’ll never be able to keep up with. Not now that I’ve met Sam, ha ha!”

A tiny sting of jealousy prickles inside my chest, but I quickly dismiss it. “So, what KISS song do you pick for our readers?”

“Pff. That impossible question again.” He rolls his eyes, but a corner of his mouth lifts into a half smile. “Well, personally, I’ve always preferred Let me go, Rock ‘n Roll—from ’74, I believe—cause it rocks so incredibly nicely and it’s damn close to some of the bluesy stuff Aerosmith and Whitesnake did.”

“Very cool! Here we go.”

Elodie Parkes is a British author writing romance, erotic, contemporary, and often with a twist of mystery, paranormal or suspense. Her books are always steamy, cool stories and hot love scenes.

Elodie lives in Canterbury with her two dogs. She works in an antique shop by day and writes at night, loving the cloak of silent, darkness that descends on the rural countryside around her home.

Elodie writes for Hot Ink Press, Moon Rose Publishing, Eternal Press, and Evernight.

She has also released titles as an individual indie author.

Find Elodie online: Blog | Tumblr | Facebook | Twitter | Google + | Pinterest | YouTube | Amazon USA | Amazon UK | Smashwords | KOBO | SONY | Barnes and Noble | All Romance eBooks | Manic Readers

Elodie is talking about her hot new Evernight Publishing release, Night of the Horse: 

‘Night of the Horse’ is erotic paranormal romance. A steamy contemporary love story with a twist. It’s set in present day England in a semi-rural town. Summer had just begun and Rosie, our heroine is feeling wistful. She’s lonely beginning to wonder if she’ll ever find love.

It’s a ‘Romance on the Go’ line book and so is short, about 12,000 words.

Blurb: A lonely young woman signs up for dance lessons. Two gorgeous guys find her as fascinating as she finds them. On the country road where she lives, she hears horses in the night, and opens her bedroom window to watch them gallop. They’re beautiful, a silver white horse and tall black horse…they turn to stare at her. Had they heard and understood when she sighed over them?

Buy links:  Evernight Publishing | Amazon USA | Amazon UK

Today two of the main characters Jude and Rosie are visiting the blog. 

Rosie, would you like to tell the readers about how you and Jude met? 

Rosie: We met on the high street in the doorway of the art supply shop didn’t we Jude? 

Jude: We did meet then. I liked her as soon as I saw her. That was before we actually met. I’d seen her around shall we say. I don’t want to give spoilers. 

Rosie: That’s true because although I didn’t know it I’d watched him from a distance.

Jude: You did more than watch you sighed over me. You sighed over Justin too. That’s another story, but just so you know my best friend loves Rosie too. It’s all cool.

He leans across and kisses Rosie, then keeps hold of her hand. 

Rosie, can you describe when you first knew you were in love with Jude? 

Rosie: That would be the first time we made love, it was sex that turned into making love. For me anyway. Although I liked him the moment I saw him, in the shop doorway. I wanted those arms around me right away.

Jude: I loved her from day one. I saw her in the country road where she lived and she passed the shop on the high street when Justin and I were moving the stuff in after we bought it. She hurried by and I watched her go. I said to Justin, ‘look at that lovely girl. The way she moves, her pretty hair, something about her makes me tingle.’ 

Rosie: You never told me that before. Justin said you were the one who said if it’s meant to be I’d find you both. That’s lovely Jude.

She leans across and kisses him this time .I better ask another question since now they are starting to get a little heated. 

What’s one thing you might have changed about your story?

Rosie: Not a thing, since it’s the real thing. Although I’ve never been happy with my name, and that I’m not very tall, both Jude and Justin can tuck me under their arm. 

Jude: That’s so sexy Rosie, that I can pick you up and cuddle you into my body. You’re beautiful the way you are.

As for me changing the story. More sex. Although there’s loads, I’m addicted to Rosie and I find it hard to keep my hands off her. I’m happy with the ending that’s the best ending ever. 

Jude, tell us something about Rosie, how would you describe her in a few words? 

Jude: She’s very pretty, slender, intelligent. I think she’s kind and generous, and she treats people really well. She’s brave too. She likes the countryside and animals. Starts to laugh and hugs Rosie. 

Rosie, describe Jude in a few words.

Rosie: Very sexy, giving, clever, thoughtful, a great lover, knows what he wants or needs to do and goes for it. Very creative and talented artistically. 

How about you both choose your favorite scene from the book. 

Rosie: It has to be a love scene for me, what about you Jude?

Jude: I’d like it to be a scene from the time we met, that’s very nearly a love scene. The expression in your eyes when you looked at me, it nearly stopped my heart. See there you go I was in love with you right from the start…

Read their chosen snippet:  

“We’re starting classes this evening, Rosie, so please sign up.” Jude’s voice and stare was dreamy. Rosie felt so drawn to him, and yet when Justin handed her a small form and a pen, his fingers touched hers and a jolt ran up her arm into her heart. She looked into his chocolate brown eyes, and then at his enticing lips, wanting to kiss him.

“Is it okay to come alone? Will there be other people there to partner with?” Rosie felt foolish and needy as she asked this. She scribbled her name, address, and cell phone number onto the form, and ticked the box to pay by credit card.

Jude leaned onto the counter top and turned the form around to read it. He looked across into Rosie’s eyes, his sapphire-blue gaze broadcasting sexual heat.

“I’ll partner you. I do that. Justin teaches, but he partners too if necessary. We have lots of people coming, almost twenty. You can start this evening, can’t you, Rosie?”

She nodded. “I can. I will. Do I need to pay now?”

Justin took the form out of Jude’s hand. “No, Rosie. See how you like it tonight, and then decide on the six-week course. If you go for that then you will need to commit to both Saturday and Wednesday sessions. Here’s the brochure.”

Rosie watched as he took a colored bi-fold from a stack and offered it to her. His fingertips brushed against hers. She opened the bi-fold to note the lessons were held in the village hall, and glanced back at both men. “Do I need special shoes or anything?”

Both of them smiled at her, their gaze soft and kind. Jude answered. “No. Just shoes that will stay on and not trip you when you’re dancing.”

Rosie didn’t want to leave the shop, but she knew she must. She backed away from the counter waving the colored brochure gently. “I’ll see you this evening. Thank you, for this.” The words she didn’t say hung in the air as she left the shop.

She walked up the main street feeling incredibly happy. They both like me. I’ll get to dance with Jude. I’ll feel his arms around me. How completely yummy. What a surprise. This is so great. Justin is incredibly sexy. Wow.

Copyright Elodie Parkes 2013

Elodie is giving away five copies of the book, ‘Night of the Horse.’

Enter the draw via the rafflecopter with just a comment on the blog.

Hello Everyone! Thanks Lea for having me on your blog all they way out in the beautiful UK! 🙂 Kudos on your awesome Goodreads rankings for Wild Hearted by the way and for Indie publishing too! Super awesome!

THE LAST CONCERT I WENT TO

So, the last concert I went to was a Madonna concert. (I hear you all snickering in the background!) I saw her at the Staples Center for her MDNA Tour in October last year. I had been wanting to see her since I was very young and I figured now was a good time before she broke a hip or something (totally kidding). My friends and I (not having been to a lot of concerts) arrived early to go to dinner. When we went into the Staples Center we found that there was another act on first and she wouldn’t be on for about three hours. Doh! To top it off, once you are in the arena there are no in-and-out privileges. So we had to hang out in one of the bars for a looong time! But I will say it was worth the wait! Madonna is a fantastic entertainer and she had some great new songs. One of my favorite things about the concert is that, when she sand an older song, she did it in a completely new way. If you haven’t ever seen her in concert, I highly recommend her!

Now, on to details of Rock Star Ex which is currently available…

BLURB:

Social media consultant, Eve Everett, is less than thrilled when her business partner hooks them up with a job covering celebrity rock band Arsenal.  Their new lead singer, Devon Quinn, is the man who broke her heart five years ago.  But there’s no way Eve can turn down the assignment. It’s the big break their fledgling company needs.

To boost Arsenal’s social media presence the band’s manager wants intimate coverage, especially of Devon,  which means traveling with the band  in their tour bus while they promote their new album.  It’s not long before Devon tries to rehash the past but Eve would rather leave it buried where it is.

When Eve is asked to be part of a music video, she decides it’s a great opportunity to reap some revenge by showing Devon what he’s missing. But soon she’s the one losing control. Will Devon once again claim her heart as well as her body?

EXCERPT:

“It’s good to see you again, Eve,” he said softly so the others wouldn’t pick up on it.  He knew she wouldn’t want to hear it.  It couldn’t be helped, but it just had to be said.

Her head snapped up, eyes wide.

“That’s what I wanted to say the other night, but you didn’t give me a chance.”

Big mistake.

Her eyes narrowed.  “I didn’t give you a chance?  Then I’d say we’re even.”

“Look, Eve, things didn’t happen the way you’re thinking.  It wasn’t like that.”  He set the bottom of Tommy’s guitar on the floor, his hand on the neck, and leaned closer in to talk to her.

“The way I’m thinking?” she repeated.  Standing up straight, she stuck one foot out to the side and said in a low hiss, “Look, Devon, the facts are the facts.  You left and I never heard from you again.  Not once.  It has nothing to do with the way I’m thinking.”

He tensed.  It was happening again.  She was misunderstanding him.  “No, look, that’s not what I mean, okay?”

“Oh, then what do you mean?”  She cocked her head at him and waited.

“It’s…it was hard on the road, to keep in touch with anyone, for a lot of reasons.  You don’t know what it was like.  I mean we were bouncing around from place to place, driving for long periods of time and then having to work until really late at night.  It was pretty much impossible to communicate.  Besides, you had no answering machine back then, remember?”

She visibly puffed up.  “I see, so it’s my fault you couldn’t communicate with me?”

“I’m not saying it was anyone’s fault, Eve.  Just that there was no way to call.”  He felt relieved.  He had finally been able to tell her, to explain.  Maybe now she would understand.  Well, when she calmed down at least.

“And you couldn’t write a letter?”   She spoke quietly but the words dripped acid.

She had him there.  Even though she was several inches shorter he suddenly felt very small.  He looked down and stuck a hand in his pocket, not knowing what to say.  That was an even more complicated topic.

Her cold eyes were on him.  The silence stretched on for another moment.  Before he could gather any other words to try to explain she turned and headed back up front, her ponytail slapping him in the face as she went.

BUY LINKS:

Evernight Publishing | Amazon | All Romance e-Books | BookStrand

Add it to your Goodreads reading list

AUTHOR BIO:

From a young age, Jewel Quinlan had an abundant imagination and strong desire to write novels.  She particularly enjoys writing paranormal and fantasy romance. An avid traveler, she has visited fifteen countries so far (which she enjoys using as settings in her novels) and has plans to see more of the world. She has a particular fondness for Bavaria and studies the German language as one of her hobbies. During the day, she works as a pharmaceutical sales representative and, at night, she writes romance. She currently lives in Orange County, California with her two dogs; Shimmer and Penny.

For more information visit www.jewelquinlan.com or you can follow her on Facebook (Author Jewel Quinlan) and Twitter (@JewelQuinlan).

* * *

NOW FOR OUR GAME!

Jewel Quinlan gives away a $10 iTunes Gift Card:

To win this cool prize, just leave a comment with the picture/link to picture of your favorite Rock Star.

AUTHOR DETAILS: Erin Ashley Tanner is currently a graduate student in her last semester at Florida State University. When she is not being forced to read boring materials for class, she enjoys leisure reading in all genres, as well as writing until her fingers hurt. She dreams of building a career as a best-selling author. To learn more about Erin, feel free to swing by her website, www.erinashleytanner.com, or reach her on Twitter @ErintheAuthor, or on her Facebook page Erin Ashley Tanner or her blog erinashleytanner.blogspot.com. 

INSPIRATION FOR THE BOOK: I have always been a fan of Greek mythology, particularly the myth of Hades and Persephone, but what really spurred me to write Goddess of Legend was reading Aimee’ Carter’s Goddess Legacy series. She did such an amazing job bringing the Greek myth of Hades and Persephone up to date while not being afraid to push boundaries and do something different. After reading the series I wanted to take a stab at modernizing the Greek myths as well. Since I’ve always believed Hades got a bad rap so to speak, I decided to do my best to finally give him a happily ever after. From that desire, Goddess of Legend was born.

BLURB: Cameryn Kane is a Private Investigator with a spirit problem. She can talk to spirits, solve any homicide and has no love life. When an unexpected death sends her world into a tailspin, Cameryn finds comfort in the arms of a talk, dark and handsome stranger, Hades, God of the Underworld.

When Hades promises to bring her loved one back from the dead if she allows him the chance to woo her for six months in the dark Underworld, Cameryn readily agrees. While fighting her growing feelings for Hades, Cameryn must deal with the return of his ex-wife, Persephone, who is determined to get her husband back.

Cameryn will soon experience love and betrayal while discovering powers she never knew she had. Along the way she will also learn that she is at the center of a prophecy that could cost her, her life, while contending with the emergence of a mother who will stop at nothing to see her destroyed.

EXCERPT:

“Good morning, beautiful,” he said lazily.

“I think we should talk,” she said cutting right to the chase.

“Okay. I’m all ears.”

“What happened between us was extraordinary. You made me feel like I was special, and I will always treasure that.”

“But?” H asked prodding.

“I’m a mess right now. My sister was killed in an accident yesterday. That’s why I was at the bar last night. It’s also why I brought you home with me. I wanted to forget about my pain.”

“I can sense your heartache. I would never want to do anything to add to it.”

“You’re not. You’ve been so sweet. Any other guy would’ve probably run away as fast as he could if he woke up next to a hysterical female.”

“I’m not like most guys. What is it, Cameryn? Tell me.”

“I think it’s best if we don’t see each other again.”

“I see.”

“I’m not trying to hurt you. It’s just I have a lot to deal with right now, and I can’t devote myself to a relationship. I’m sorry.”

“What if I want a relationship with you?” he asked quietly.

“I can’t, H.”

“If you weren’t grieving for your sister would you consider giving us a chance?”

“I’m not sure,” she said honestly.

“You’d give anything to have your sister back, wouldn’t you?”

“Of course I would. Anything. But death is final,” Cameryn said climbing out bed and grabbing her robe.

“No, it isn’t. You can have your sister back.”

 “Are you out of your mind? Deena’s dead, and nothing can bring her back,” Cameryn said as tears started rolling down her face.

“I can.”

“You can’t. Nobody can. Just go … please.”

“Not until you listen to me,” he said getting out of bed and walking over to her.

Cameryn tried to ignore his nakedness as he stood in front of her.

“I know this is going to be hard for you to believe, but I’m not really human. I’m Hades, the Lord of the Underworld, and I can give you back your sister,” he said softly touching her face.

Cameryn laughed. A deep bellyaching laugh. He was out of his mind. Trust her to pick up a crazy one night stand. What a waste.

“Listen, H, or whoever the hell you are, I’m not sure if you bumped your head or something, but clearly you have some mental issues. I really think you should go now.”

“Cameryn, I can assure you that I’m in complete control of my mental faculties, and I’m more than willing to prove it you,” he said smiling.

“Go ahead. Knock yourself out,” Cameryn said now fully convinced her dream lover was certifiable.

She crossed her arms and watched as he closed his eyes. He seemed to be concentrating hard. Cameryn couldn’t stop the gasp that came from her throat as she watched his naked body become magically swathed in black robes. She blinked rapidly, just to make sure she wasn’t imagining things. Nope. He was still standing in front of her wearing dark black robes. She started to shake when she saw a bright blue light surround him. When he opened his eyes and stared at her, she could see flames dancing in his eyes.

“Okay. You’re a magician, but you’re going to have to do better than that,” Cameryn said brazenly refusing to believe what she was seeing.

“Very well,” he said in a voice that now boomed.

Since when had his voice boomed? Cameryn screamed as he disappeared right before her eyes. When he reappeared in front of her a moment later, black clouds swirled around him. What had she gotten herself into?

“What are you?”

“I’m Hades, God of the Underworld.”

“You mean as in Greek god Hades? No. That stuff is only a bunch of myths.”

“And yet I stand before you now. You of all people should know that everything is not as it always appears, Cameryn.”

“What are you talking about?”

 “You can talk to the dead. You find their spirits that cry out for rest.”

“How do you know about that?”

“I know a lot about you,” he said staring at her intently.

“What do you want?”

“A chance.”

“A chance for what?”

“To woo you. Come to the Underworld with me.”

“Huh?” Cameryn asked too dumbfounded to believe what she was hearing.

“Come to the Underworld with me. Give me six months to show you that I can love you the way that you deserve. I want to make you immortal and have you rule at my side as my wife and queen for all eternity.”

He wanted her to be his wife! She had to be hallucinating. Maybe he’d drugged her last night when she wasn’t paying attention.

“If I agree to this, what happens at the end of six months?”

“Your sister will be returned to life, regardless of whether or not you decide to remain with me in the Underworld. It is my sincerest wish that during our time together you will come to love me as I already love you.”

“And if I stay with you, I’ll become immortal?”

“Yes. You will never grow old. You will never die. You will be eternally beautiful.”

“This is a lot to process. I don’t know what to say,” Cameryn said plopping down on her bed.

 “I don’t expect you to make a decision right now. I’m a patient man. Take as much time as you need,” he said starting to fade away.

“Wait. How do I reach you?”

“Just call for me, and I will come. Farewell, beloved,” he said caressing her face.

And then he was gone.

Goddess of Legend will be available for purchase starting October 14^th. You can purchase on Evernight’s website, Amazon, All Romance E Books and Bookstrand.

Please join my fellow Evernight author Naomi Clark for a few questions & answers about her recently released novel Blood Hunt!

Hi Naomi, congratulations on your book! What genre is it?

– Very firmly in the urban fantasy camp, with a touch of romance.

Is it part of a series?

– Yes, technically it’s Book Three of the Urban Wolf series. I say “technically” because it’s the second novel, but the third story. The first story is a short piece called WOLF STRAP and the first full novel is SILVER KISS, both available from Evernight Publishing

What led you to the story idea?

– I loved the idea of pitting a werewolf against one of their traditional enemies, but putting a twist on the age-old battle.

Have you written other books, and if so, what genres are they?

– Oh yes, I’ve been writing forever! My published works are all urban fantasy and paranormal romance, but my short stories have run the gamut from horror to thriller to “slice of life” flash fiction.

Would you write other genres?

– I would love to write a romantic suspense. I do have an idea for one based on a short story I wrote, but I just don’t have time for it right now! One for the future.

What makes this new story special compared to the others you’ve written?

– It’s set in Paris, which is where my fiance took me to propose, so it’s got a very special place in my heart.

What was your biggest challenge on writing it?

– Getting the French right! I was lucky enough to find a native speaker to check my French for me, so hopefully the final version is perfect. I haven’t spoken French since school, so I didn’t want to rely on my memory and Google Translate…

Which was your favorite part to write?

– I loved describing Paris and recreating the places I’d visited when we were there, as well as researching the places we hadn’t managed to get to.

What do you hope your readers will love the most about it?

– Hopefully the fact that this is a story about brave, smart, passionate women, working together, supporting each other and facing their fears will appeal strongly to readers. That’s something I love to read so it seems natural to write it too!

Which is your favorite book, the one you’ll always read again?

– I’ve just finished re-reading Tamora Pierce’s Immortals quartet. I generally re-read those books every couple of years and I never get tired of them!

What kind of stories did you read as a child?

– I was a high fantasy junkie. I loved The Hobbit and anything that featured dragons and magic! I also read a lot of horror, but I had to hide that from my parents as they were convinced it would warp me for life.

How much research do you do before beginning to write?

– Well, the trip to Paris was great research! I also did a lot of research on European werewolf lore and legend, which was loads of fun. One of the things I enjoy most about writing this story is putting a new slant on traditional werewolf myths.

Do you prefer to outline a story before you start, or do you write as you go?

– I cannot outline for the life of me. If I do, I get bored of the story. I usually have a few key scenes in my head when I start, but getting from one to the next is a surprise journey for me and that’s how I like it!

What are your plans for the future?  

– At the moment I’m working on Urban Wolf 4 and when I’m not writing, I make and sell perfume. My huge ambition for the future is to make writing and handmade perfume my full-time job. I’m a long way off yet, but that’s the goal!

Very cool, it’s so important to have a goal! In the meantime, let’s take a look at Blood Hunt (I LOVE the title, by the way!): 

BLURB:

Ayla Hammond is taking on Paris. Hoping for a romantic getaway in the City of Lights with her girlfriend, Shannon, she finds a city under the dark thrall of Le Monstre. Getting caught up in mystery and murder was the last thing Ayla and Shannon wanted or expected, but as the body count grows and tension rises between Parisian werewolves and humans, they find themselves stalked by an unknown terror.
What is Le Monstre and why does it make Ayla’s wolf want to turn tail and run? Can it be stopped before they become its next victims?

BUY LINKS:

Evernight | All Romance Ebooks

AUTHOR BIO:

Naomi Clark lives in Cambridge and is a mild-mannered office worker by day, but a slightly crazed writer by night. She has a perfectly healthy obsession with giant sea creatures and a preference for vodka-based cocktails. When she’s not writing, Naomi is probably either reading or watching 80s cartoon shows, and sometimes she manages to do all three at once.

You can get in touch with her on:

http://naomijay.blogspot.co.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/naomijclark

https://twitter.com/naomi_jay

It’s a true privilege to be chatting with guardian Marcus from Valerie Twombly’s paranormal romance “Eternal Flame”.

Hi there! So glad to have you here. What’s your full name?

Marcus Dagotto

Why were you given that name?

Fuck if I know

Do you have a nickname?

No one would dare

Where were you born?

A realm called Vandeldor

Do you have any scars, tattoos, piercings?

Yes, the gods gave me a tattoo of ankh with wings. The ankh means life and the wings are for the guardian

Do you have a personal scent (perfume or cologne)?

Are you saying I smell?

Do you have any siblings?

Yes, a sister Gwen and she’d slit my throat if I gave her age.

Who has been your greatest influence?

My father, but he no longer lives. He gave his life so he could join my mother on the other side

Where did you grow up? How do you feel about it now?

My home has been burnt to the ground how do you think I feel?

Where do you currently live?

I cannot divulge that information, too many lives are at stake

With whom do you live?

I live with my mate Cassie. The woman is the light to my darkness and I would die for her

Do you have any pets?

Does having a dragon for a friend count?

What’s your title and rank?

I am a guardian, my rank is second in command to our king and royal pain in the ass to the gods

How do you think your colleagues would describe you?

Demanding, overbearing, stubborn…oh wait that is how my mate describes me. I suppose my brethren would say the same

What’s currently your biggest commitment?

Keeping mortals safe from the plethora of evil that surrounds them

Who’s your best friend?

My best friend is Aidyn our king and he is like a brother to me. He was there when I had to take my father’s life.

Who’s your biggest enemy?

Since I’m supposed to be out hunting him now, rather than chatting with you I think we shall skip this one

What’s your greatest talent?

Perhaps you should ask my mate how many times I make her scream in bed.

What are you the most hopeless at?

Cassie, I’d give her anything, she only need ask

What are your hobbies?

Would beheading demons count?

What do you do to keep fit and healthy?

Nothing. My people were created in the eyes of a god, do you think he wanted us to exercise?

How would you spend an unexpected day off?

Guardians don’t have days off, if we did you would all be dead

What sort of transportation do you rely on?

Ah, now you speak my language. When in the human realm, I like to drive a 56 Shelby GT, red. Otherwise I simply flash to where I want to go

What’s your favorite or most dreaded holiday?

Hmm, never really thought about it. I suppose having a mate I’m about to find out

How deeply does your job define you as a person?

The guardians were created to protect humanity. I am both a healer and a warrior and there is no greater satisfaction than healing a fragile life

What’s your most cherished possession?

My mate, and yes, I possess every inch of her body

What makes you blush?

Nothing

How do you feel about the opposite sex?

Women are the beauty of the world and as much as I would like to protect them it’s not possible. I taught my sister to fight at an early age. She may be a female, but she is a warrior I’d trust with my life.

How do you feel about children?

I love children, as a matter of fact my mate is with child at this very moment

How did you and Cassie meet?

Oh for fuck sake, read the damn book

What were you doing before you met her?

Tracking a killer. I had only one purpose and the darkness covered my soul…now I have my Eternal Flame

Thanks for stopping by, Marcus. Now on to your book 🙂 

BLURB:

A woman he cannot have, a man who is only a dream…

When guardian Marcus Dagotto, discovers the Gods have gifted him with a mate, he is pissed. He has no room for love and even less for a human who has no idea he exists.

Cassandra Jensen, has a shattered heart and has given up on men. Only one man can set her body on fire, but he is a fantasy that haunts her sleep.

Two worlds, one desire.

When the two collide, fate will rip them apart and test their resolve. Will darkness and evil prevail? Or, will love conquer all?

BUY LINKS:

Resplendence Publishing

Coming soon on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

TOUR GIVEAWAY:

Valerie Twombly will be giving away 1 e-copy of Eternal Flame on Oct 31, 2013. Click HERE to enter the contest!

EXCERPT: 

She glanced at the clock, it was one a.m. But the last thing she wanted to do was sleep. She set her glass down and moved off the couch. “I’m not tired.” She reached for his hand and dug for her courage. She had a feeling he didn’t want to leave. “Kiss me.”

He pulled her close and ran his fingers down her cheek. He leaned down and brushed his lips against hers. Gently, he nibbled her bottom lip, coaxing her mouth open with his tongue. She parted her lips, he took full advantage, pressed his way deeper into her mouth, held the kiss before he broke away.

She opened her eyes and let out a sigh. “You’re a good kisser, Marcus.” She leaned into him and pressed her body against his. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she pulled him to her, and their lips came together. Her tongue did a deliberate slow dance across his, making him moan. Her core turned to lava, the heat almost too much to bear.

He pushed her away. “Cassie. I could stand here and kiss you all night, but I’d better go before I make an ass of myself and you end up hating me.”

She reached for his hand, knowing what his aim was. “Why do you think I would end up hating you?” She worried it might be the other way around. Would he think her a wanton woman? She tried to cap her desire, but the need to live what happened in her dreams overruled her common sense.

“I will not lie. I believe in the truth, always. I want you. I want to lie you on the bed and make passionate love to you until neither of us can move.”

“Then what’s stopping you?” she whispered.

“Love, did I hear you correctly?” Disbelief was written on his face.

She gazed into his stormy eyes. “I will admit, I’m not the type who sleeps with a man on the first date.” She looked down at his chest. “Hell, not even the second or third.” Her eyes moved back up to meet his. “I can’t say what it is, this connection I feel. I just know I need you.”

He pulled her close, his mouth crushing hers. Their tongues glided across each other in a play for dominance. Her nipples hardened and strained against the fabric of her dress. With only the thin layer of material between them, she felt his cock harden.

She pulled away and gasped for air as she led him to the darkened bedroom. Her courage wavered for a moment. She’d come this far, there would be no stopping now. She didn’t want to stop.

“Marcus, I don’t know how to explain it. I trust you, and to be honest, your touch sets me on fire. I need you, but if this isn’t what you want, then I’ll understand.” She held her breath and waited for his reaction.

He traced a finger along her cheek. “There’s no way in hell I’m leaving now, unless of course, you toss me on the street.”

She reached for his shirt, her fingers trembling as she loosened the first button. He grabbed her wrists. “If at any time you want to stop, tell me.”

Her head shook and continued with the buttons until they were completely undone. She pushed the shirt past his shoulders and onto the floor. Breath escaped her lungs when the moonlight filtered in the windows and danced across his chest. He was remarkable, better than her dreams.

He removed the clip that held her hair. Her chestnut curls spilled around her shoulders. He moaned when his fingers ran through the silky mass. The dress became a second skin, and she was ready to be rid of it, but before she could make a move, he reached behind her neck and untied the halter. The dress fell to her waist, exposing her bare breasts. His eyes became drunk with desire. He tipped his head down and ran his tongue over her nipple, causing it to pebble. God, she had almost come undone right there.

“You have too many clothes on,” she said, reaching for the button on his pants.

He moved off her breast, and she cried out from the ache he left behind. “I could say the same for you, love.” He kicked off his boots while she dropped her dress to the floor. She was left standing in a red thong and black heels. There would be no turning back now.

Grabbing the waistband of his pants, she yanked them to the floor, and his erection sprung free. Her tongue traced her lips, desperate to savor him. He was much bigger than she had experienced, but that only heightened her arousal. She dropped to her knees and ran her tongue over the tip of his shaft. He tasted of salt and seduction. He wrapped a fist in her hair and groaned. She sucked him in, taking every inch. Drunk by the pleasure she gave him.

He threw his head back. “Oh gods, Cassie, you feel so good. Don’t stop.”

As if she could. No, she was a woman possessed, determined to take him over the edge. At this moment, she wanted nothing more than to make him scream her name.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

As a child, Valerie would often get into trouble for peeking at her mother’s favorite TV show, Dark Shadows. She can still hear her mother saying “It will give you nightmares.” She was right of course, but that did not stop Valerie from watching. As an adult, her love of the fanged creatures never waned. She would watch any vampire movie she could find.

Being a true romantic, Valerie was thrilled when she discovered the genre of paranormal romance. Her first read was one of Lara Adrian’s, Midnight Breed Series and from there she was hooked.

Today, Valerie has decided to take her darker, sensual side and put it to paper. When she is not busy creating a world full of steamy, hot men and strong, seductive women, she juggles her time between a full-time job, hubby and her two German shepherd dogs, in Northern IL.

CONNECT WITH VALERIE:

Website| Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

In celebration of Evernight Publishing’s three-year birthday, Romance on the Go authors Angelina Rain, Lea Bronsen and Lyn Brittan are interviewed on the review site Book Bliss today.

Check out the interview with Lea Bronsen:

Book Bliss: Every author has had a struggle, from plots not working, to publishers not being interested, what has been your greatest challenge on your journey to writing? Do you have any advice to share on how you surpassed the challenge?

Lea: My greatest handicap is writing in a foreign language, but I refuse to let it stop me from targeting the English-speaking book market. My best advice on surpassing this particular problem is to surround yourself with friends who take the time to edit your work and to consult writing groups before submitting to publishers. And—this goes for native English speakers, too—make sure you have a dictionary available at all times *smile*

Book Bliss: Of course I have to ask the timeless question, if you had to pick one author to read for the rest of your life, who would it be and why?

Lea: It would have to be Cody McFadyen, because reading his thrillers (especially the first one in the Smoky Berrett series, Shadow Man) was like an awakening. With his words, he found a way into my soul and shook me. Profoundly. His writing is top-notch, intense, and full of emotions, gore, frantic action, and suspense. It doesn’t necessarily leave me with a good feeling, but I’m the kind of person that is drawn to this genre and feeds on it.

Book Bliss: Just what does your spouse have to say when you get into writer mode during the bedroom scenes?

Lea: Ha! Good question. My husband knows I write erotic scenes but seldom reads my work, so I, ahem, make sure to compensate when I’m off writer mode…

Book Bliss: Who would you say is your author bestie? Who would you love to collaborate on a novel with?

Lea: While struggling with my debut novel last year, I met D.C. Stone, a terrific person and highly talented author who taught me the basics of the writing craft and guided me through every step of the publishing process. I’m very proud and honored to be currently collaborating on a romantic suspense novel with her!

Book Bliss: If you could live in the world you’ve created would you? Why or why not?

Lea: No, I write fictitious stories because they are fantasies that allow me to evade reality. I still make those worlds as realistic and plausible as possible in order to pull the readers into my characters’ heads and make them “live” their stories. That being said, I might want to experience some of the hotter scenes myself, too. *grins*

Book Bliss: Authors all have their own schedules and quirks when writing a novel. Some like a certain room in the house, others a certain time of the day. Do you find yourself writing better under certain circumstances?

Lea: The busy life I lead as a full-time worker and mother of three children does not allow me to schedule my writing time. I have adapted to that uncertainty by learning to focus on/off and taking notes at any available moment, on any writing device, any place.

Book Bliss: Are any of the characters in your novels based on people from your life? Care to share any that are?

Lea: All my characters have bits and pieces from real people—some are even inspired by an eye-catching look, pose, or appearance in a film/photo—but none are directly based on persons I know. Which is probably a good thing, as most of my characters are broken souls to whom I’m pretty sure no one wants to be connected 😉

Book Bliss: If you were to get stuck all alone with any one of your characters, which one and why?

Lea: Can I really pick one? *beaming* I would choose Micaela, the gorgeous, long-haired Italian bicyclist in my erotica WIP. Though I made him irresistible for my heroine, I obviously like him myself, and he’s still enough of a mysterious person for me to want to…uh…explore him a little more.

Book Bliss: What would you say the difference is between writing a novel and writing a novella? Is it harder for you to scale back and keep things concise enough for the smaller manuscript or do you sometimes find it easier?

Lea: It depends on how much detail you want to put into a story. How much backstory it needs, how long you want to dwell describing the setting and explaining emotional behaviors, how many plots you weave into the story arc, and what kind of developments your main characters require. I totally love the sense of freedom and profusion of time the novel length gives me to develop a story, but producing 80-100 K is exhausting and takes a lifetime! In comparison, hitting the submit button after just a few weeks of condensing a story into a shorter format grants a speedier process and, if you’re lucky, instant gratification.

Book Bliss: You’re forced to only read one book for the rest of your life- what is it?

Lea: I would definitely choose Ken Follett’s “The Pillars of the Earth”. This seemingly endless (1000-something pages) chronicle and its sequel are the kinds of books that reveal new layers each time you give them a read. They not only take place in a very captivating, agitated time in European history—the medieval age—but their story arcs span over several decades with a mind-blowing amount of well-developed characters, multiple intricately interwoven plots, and a wealth of detailed setting descriptions. How Mr. Follett managed to keep track of it all is beyond me!

Thanks so much for having me 🙂

Celebrate like a ROCK STAR because Evernight Publishing is THREE!

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

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

Prizes include:

Samsung Galaxy Tab

Kindle Paperwhite

Kobo Touch

$100 Evernight and Amazon Gift Certificates

Mega Evernight Swag Pack

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

As an author, I’m thrilled to share my stories with you and Evernight helps make my books shine! Here’s one reason why I love Evernight Publishing: I’m previously indie-published and know all about the hard work to get a book out on the market. The day I joined Evernight with its dedicated staff and talented authors was a huge change in my life. I suddenly had a whole new family to help, support, and promote me! And boy do I love returning the affection 🙂

My first Evernight book, the erotic contemporary romance My Biggest Fan was released in August and I plan on writing many more:

BLURB:

Shawn Torien is a handsome, arrogant bassist with the groove rock band Bloodless. At thirty four, he’s seen everything, been everywhere, and all is handed to him on a silver plate—groupies included. His rock star attitude is questioned when the record company’s young webmistress Samantha joins the band to cover their life on the road.

Since she has crushed on Shawn for years, he takes great pleasure in teasing her and pushing her away… until he learns about the woman beneath the surface.

BUY LINKS:

Evernight Publishing | Amazon | All Romance eBooks | Bookstrand | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

EXCERPT: 

The backstage room is filling with people. Band members, roadies, management, and special guests such as family, media, and a few pre-selected fans. The place buzzes with chatting and chuckling, and I stop in the door to assess. Don’t see any eye-catching hotness yet.

Sweat runs from my head, along my back, and down my abs. My soaked shirt glues to my skin, and I stink of hour-long transpiration. I need a shower, but there’s so much else I want to do first: get a drink, a smoke, and some pussy before the tour bus leaves. None of these are allowed on board. I’m electrical, high. I need to move, and my whole body thirsts to get higher.

Next to a merchandise booth in a corner stands a table with plates of sandwiches and cut fruit, a selection of mineral water bottles, and alcoholic drinks.

“Shawn! Shawn!” Strangers rush me with expectant smiles, probably wanting me to sign CD covers or something.

But I’ve made up my mind. Ignoring them, I stride to the table, grab a can of cold beer and down it in one take. The icy beverage rushes through my throat and refreshes me. The sweaty hairs on my arms rise as if chilly air blew on them. I open another, gulp down the beer, and grab a third.

“Hey, Shawn,” a female says behind me.

I hate being interrupted, but I’ve heard that voice before. Beer in hand, I spin around.

Oh, Samantha from the record company. I don’t know if that pleases or annoys me. She’s cute, though, with long brown tendrils at shoulder-length, and hazel eyes glowing with warm intelligence.

The alcohol makes me a little tipsy; I can’t resist the want to tease her. I give her the can with a grin and proceed to take off my soaked shirt, as if it’s the most natural thing. Damp body heat and the sharp smell of sweat emanate as I lift my arms in the air, struggling to remove the wet fabric, groaning.

Once done, I drop it to the floor and cross my arms, making my well-trained muscles protrude, and scrutinize her reaction. Offering a little male sexiness has worked on most females before.

Flabbergasted is the best word to describe her face. I flash my teeth as her gaze runs over my torso. She can’t possibly be aware of her nostrils’ tiny movements, revealing her inhalation of my scent.

I let a moment pass, then ask, pointing at the can in her hands, “You gonna have that beer?”

“Oh.” She straightens with a deep breath, regains composure, looks at the brand logo on the can, and shakes her head. “No, I don’t drink alcohol at work.”

I like her voice. It’s soft, comforting, reminds me of my mother’s. But when she hands me my drink, the wolf in me wants to play. I cover her hand and tug while taking a step closer, pulling her toward me. She wears a discreet perfume, the scent of prairie flowers, I think. Her cheeks blush as she lifts her chin to meet my eyes, and her pupils grow feverish. She’s holding her breath. With my other hand, I grab her round, firm butt and press her stomach against mine.

All sounds around us vanish; the talking, the laughter. I focus on the girl in my arms. She’s not really my type, but knowing her infatuation, she’ll be an easy fuck. That’s all I need before getting on the bus. Tomorrow, it’ll be someone else.

I glance at the KISS patches on her chest. Gene Simmons once declared we’re all in this business for sex, and whoever says he does it for the music is lying. Besides, the girls beg to be screwed senseless by celebrities, so they can brag to their friends. Shawn in Bloodless slept with me! Squee!

Maybe she thinks I’m going to kiss her, but I’m not. Call me crazy, but there’s a little romantic in me saving that for a special girlfriend—if such a thing is in the cards for a guy like me. Instead, I move my hands to her denim jacket and start unbuttoning it from the top.

“You seem to need a little help with that,” I joke.

Damn, we’re so close, and her feminine heat makes my blood boil. I picture bringing her to a dark corner behind the stage curtain and having her hands on my cock. I suggestively push my hardness against her warm thighs.

She frowns and takes a step back.

No? What is it? My beer breath? I withdraw as well. Too fucking bad.

Eyes shimmering, she opens her mouth, but I turn and grab a new can. I mean, who the hell do you think you are to turn me down like that?

I gulp the whole drink, release a solid burp, and take what must be the fifth can before leaving.

_____________________

I hope you enjoyed this little read. Now, to the PRIZES!

To win my own blog prize – an ecopy of MY BIGGEST FAN – please leave an answer to the following question in the comment section:

Samantha made a terrible mistake. What do you suggest she should have done to keep her rock star hero interested?

Enter to win the GRAND PRIZES using Rafflecopter.

Hop to the NEXT STOP here.

It’s the perfect time to buy the Evernight titles on your TBR list, as well as new gems you find during the event, because Evernight’s entire backlist is on sale at evernightpublishing.com and allromanceebooks.com through October 7^th!