Winners!!!

I have 2 giveaways that have closed and you know what that means!!  We need to announce some winners!!

For Bonnie Bliss' Whips and Wax

The Winner is....Tressa Oliver!!

For Leanore Elliot's Realm of Fire:

And the winners are...Denise..Na...and books4me!!!!

Thanks to everyone who entered because you are all winners in my book!!!  The winners have 48 hours to email me back!

Demon's Slave Interview and Giveaway

Hello and welcome to this stop on Danielle's tour of her latest book Demon's Slave!  I was lucky enough to be able to grab an interview with her and get some insight into her life.  She has also agreed to give one lucky commenter a copy of her book.  Let's take a look at what she had to say:

Hello Danielle and welcome to CEWTNK!!  I’m so glad you could make it today! Let’s jump right into the interview!

How old were you when you first realized you wanted to write?

My mother would tell you I started the fire burnin’ when I was just a wee toddler. I apparently dictated a poem to her that involved such symbolic imagery as “eyes are windows”, etc. Yeah, I was THAT kid! Purple prose was in my future, apparently. I was always making imaginary worlds up and filling them with what I thought were interesting characters, and I started actually writing them down when I was around nine.

Amazing!  That is an incredibly young age. Most authors have an unusual story or way that they come up with their ideas for books…Do you have one?

It’s all a clusterf*** mishmash, to be truthful. Sometimes it’s listening to music, or watching a movie or documentary, or taking a shower and having “lighting strike” while I’m standing there shampooing (this works especially well for working out dialogue). I have walked into bars, tattoo shops, museums, or public bathrooms and had inspiration hit me like a freight train—you know, those creative “ah!” moments. Reading, of course, is a huge influence—reading the right story by the right author can lubricate my own artistic pathways and get the juices flowing.

Books can lubricate many things!!  LOL!  What was your biggest influence that steered you towards writing?

Honestly? My art. Drawing out my characters naturally led to me telling their stories in prose form. Art and the written word compliment each other quite well. When I draw, I want to write. When I write, I want to draw. They go hand-in-hand.

I can understand that!  I love to draw as well. I have to ask, what are the hardest scenes for you to write?Probably the scenes involving a very deep, emotional conversation between two or more characters. You have to put in a shit ton of effort to make the conversation, argument, or passionate professing of love or hate seem real—not stilted. Sometimes that’s hard for me, since my natural writing style is more poetic, more metaphoric. I have to sit and envision the characters in my head, as if it were a movie reel, to come up with the most real-world, believable dialogue. When I’m successful, it’s a great triumph.  

Are sex scenes difficult for you to word?

Heck, no! That’s the easiest part! Writing sex is very natural for me, and it tends to flow the easiest.

Lol!!  Do you see yourself writing in another genre?

Not as of right now. Paranormal fantasy and horror are where it’s at for me!

Has your family been supportive?

Incredibly. My husband said, “Go for it,” from the start. My parents buy both print AND Kindle edition copies of every one of my titles, including the ones that are as hardcore as they come. I have been very blessed to have such great support. No one has called me crazy…at least not yet!

Family support is always awesome! Are any of your characters reflective of you?

YEP!!! You bet! But not the character that everyone assumes. Everyone guesses that I’m Psyche, the artist heroine of “Psyche’s Gate”. Sorry, kids, it just ain’t so. Nope, I’m the hotter-than-hell, platinum blond, heavily tattooed half-demon hero with a prison body and a kielbasa between his legs…at least on the inside. Skriker’s laid-back side, AND his vulnerable side, are totally reflective of yours truly.

lol!  What do you like to do when you're not writing?

I paint, draw, watch foreign films, documentaries, and episodes of Sons of Anarchy and The Walking Dead. I love sampling local food and wine in my California hometown, and enjoying the local museums. I love getting tattooed and pierced (when I can afford to get the best work). Oh, and I change lots of diapers. Lots…and LOTS….of diapers. My son, Ryker, is the center of my universe.

Who is your favorite book heroine?

Rose is my fave heroine in my own books…she is dreadfully complex and therefore very interesting, and she’s also kick-ass without being cheesy, and she ain’t perfect. Her body may be beautiful, but she bears scars on her face, and in her heart, that make her a fragmented creature.

Do you have any unusual habits that revolve around writing?

I always have a beer, a whisky, a coffee, or a diet soda within reach, and I usually smoke a cigarette or two before and after a writing session. If I get stuck and need to mull over my next steps, I take a shower. Yep, it’s strange, but true. For some reason, soaping up and rinsing off really helps—it’s like lightning strikes the most easily when I’m spacing out with shampoo in my hair.

What is you favorite mystical creature?

It’s a tossup between gryphons and mermaids. If you’re talking just strict mythology, I love angels and demons. I have a huge library focusing on A&D as a subject, and I’m not talking about Dan Brown’s books!

What were some of your biggest challenges at the beginning of your career?

Landing that first contract. Every author gets TONS of rejections from publishers, agents, and PR firms in the beginning. There were days I refused to get out of bed, I was so depressed. But the key, as with all things, is persistence, not giving up. Charge on into that good night, and eventually you will find triumph! Or something like that.

How do you feel about reader comments?

Love ‘em! Send ‘em my way. I’m not one of those authors who gets butt-hurt if someone didn’t like my work. Not to say I don’t get hurt feelings…I can be quite thin skinned at times. But the difference is that I don’t go on a tirade with readers. I keep my injury to myself. I adore hearing from new readers and fans alike. I wish more would approach me!

Do you have any advice for new authors?

Don’t give up!!! And be professional. Make sure your book is polished, polished, polished! Follow submission guidelines EXACTLY. Believe me, when you sign the dotted line on that publisher’s contract it, will all have been worth it.

Where are your books available?

Everywhere! My biggest retailer is:

Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_tc_2_0?rh=i%3Astripbooks%2Ck%3ADanielle+D.+Smith&keywords=Danielle+D.+Smith&ie=UTF8&qid=1326660700&sr=1-2-ent&field-contributor_id=B003S863Y8

For other retailers check out: http://www.danielledsmith.com/buybooks.html

What can we expect from you in the future?

The Black Dog and Rebel Rose graphic novel is a HUGE thing for me right now…the biggest non-corporate (*cough* NOT Marvel or DC *cough*) comic book pubs will be getting proposal packages. I am also hard at work on the next Psyche’s Gate Saga book, “Nephil’s Curse”, and on the first Skriker and Rose holiday adventure, “Ghosts of Winter”, due out in spring/summer 2012. (Who said you can’t have Christmas in July?)

Where can we reach you and become informed of updates?

Visit my website:

http://www.danielledsmith.com

My blog:

http://www.theangelsgate.blogspot.com

My Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=522911002

Or find me on Twitter:

@DaniDSmith

You can also visit and join:

Skriker’s Facebook fanpage, Lovers of the Black Dog:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/181560128573594/

 Thanks so much for stopping by!!  Let's take a look at Demon's Slave:

Rose, Nephil daughter of a Warrior of Heaven, has betrayed her celestial heritage by falling for the guy from the wrong side of the tracks: Skriker, tattooed half-demon hunter, and the most irresistible chunk of hard meat that she has ever taken to her bed.

Rose knows that there is no love in all of Creation more forbidden than that between an angel and a demon, and that knowledge has left her terribly fragmented, despite her passionate love for her Halfling bad boy.

As Skriker's "Dirty 30" approaches, she will offer him the ultimate birthday gift: she will be his devoted sexual slave for three days and three nights, laying aside her angelic pride to fully commit to his pleasure (and hers) with every part of her being...and neither Heaven nor Hell will have any power to stop it.

**Publisher's Warning: This sordid tale contains graphic BDSM sex, including forceful oral and anal sex, bondage, blindfolding, slapping/spanking, nipple clamps, toe-curling dirty talk, hot wax, and crazy hardcore sex in a church.**

I just love the warning label :)  Makes it that more tempting to read!!  Just fill out the rafflecopter for your chance to win!!  Be sure and check out the rest of the tour here:  Demon's Slave Tour schedule.  Good Luck!!

Giveaway and Guest Post for The Kiss of Death Tour

Hello!!  I am very happy to be part of the Kiss of Death Tour.  Today I have with me Rebecca Zanetti as she talks about why we love Romantic Suspense books.  Why do you love them?  Rebecca is also giving away a print copy of her book claimed to one lucky commenter!!  Take it away Rebecca!!

Three Reasons to Love Romantic Suspense

By Rebecca Zanetti

Romantic suspense books can be absolutely breathtaking.  As a writer, I think there are three main reasons romantic suspense is so fun to read (and write).  First, romantic suspense books throw characters together and can get the romance moving a lot quicker than normal.  I mean, what’s more likely to get characters moving?  A gal going over to borrow a cup of sugar from her handsome neighbor—or two people fleeing for their lives and hiding out in an abandoned barn after running desperately through a rain storm?  How in the world might they warm up?

Second, romantic suspense plots let us delve deeper into the darker side of life.  The villains can be all the more villainous – for the stronger your hero, the stronger the villain needs to be.  Most of us (hopefully) won’t be running for our lives from a crazy, serial killer stalker.  But it sure makes for some exciting reading while we’re safe in our comfy pajamas in front of a fire.

The third and best reason I like romantic suspense is that intense situations bring out the strength of people—real or imaginary.  How your heroine reacts to the danger, how the hero leaps to save and protect—that’s fascinating.  There’s a complexity to a good romantic suspense novel that includes layer upon layer of characterization.  Those are the books that keep us coming back for more.

Rebecca is one of the many talented authors who belong to the Romance Writers of America’s Kiss of Death chapter. At Kiss of Death we believe that every great romance should include suspense. Whether a spy thriller in Regency times, a paranormal romance with a revenge-seeking zombie, or a traditional serial killer after the heroine, romance relies on suspense, leading the reader through the trials of the heroine and hero to see if they will get their happily ever after ending. If you can call your writing suspenseful, then the Kiss of Death has something for you! Find out more and join at http://www.rwamysterysuspense.org and follow us on Twitter at @RWAKissofDeath.

Rebecca Zanetti is a college professor by day and romance author by night.  Currently she’s busy writing the sexy Dark Protector Series from Kensington Brava, which has received excellent reviews.  Publisher’s Weekly said the following about her latest release, CLAIMED, “This thriller’s true strengths: sizzling sex scenes and a memorable cast.”   To find Rebecca on the web, drop by her website: http://rebeccazanetti.com .

Let's take a look at Rebecca's Book: 

By Rebecca Zanetti

A Daring Rescue: Emma Paulsen is a geneticist driven by science. But she's also a psychic, so when a dark, good-hearted vampire frees her from the clutches of the evil Kurjans, she realizes he must be the man who's been haunting her dreams. But with a virus threatening vampires' mates, Emma may discover a whole new meaning of "lovesick"...A Deadly Decision: As King of the Realm, Dage Kayrs has learned to practice diplomacy. Still, it's taken three hundred years to find his mate, so he'll stop at nothing to protect her - even if it means turning his back on his own kind.

Looks suspenseful and yummy!!  To be entered for your chance to win a print copy of this great book, just fill out the rafflecopter form and be sure to leave a comment answering the question!!  Good Luck!!!

Shadows To Light By: Regan Black

A supernatural healer, Mira escapes a trial of her peers only to be sent on an impossible mission: Rescue her scientist father from a madman who's using him to create bio-weapons. But she's no spy. On her own, with no real clues, she isn't sure where to turn.

Part of a covert task force searching for a missing government scientist, Jameson is tasked with staring at a laboratory building day in and day out. The boredom is overwhelming until Mira, a woman he cannot forget, shows up in a place she should never be.

Forced together by circumstance, Mira and Jameson enter an adventure that will push them to their limits - and quite possibly beyond.

My Review:

I can sum this book up in two words...it rocked!!  I am totally anal at starting a series from the first book, just because you can get lost in the sub-plots or miss clues.  Not so in this book.  The only hint that you maybe reading a series is the appearances of 4 more couples in a spot in the book.  Otherwise it reads just like a stand-alone or the first book in the series.

Mira is a healer who continuously pushes the boundaries of her job.  She is suppose to save people without drawing any attention to herself or her skills.  So basically she is supposed to take injuries that were critical or decapitating and turn them into something that was easily treatable by a doctor.  Miracles were not allowed in the order.  So she travels, to different places, in different jobs, helping people but always alone.  Until she shared a kiss with one lone solider that rocked her world.

How can one kiss change your life?  It had been a simple job for Jameson.  But one kiss with one extraordinary nurse had transformed him completely.  He had dreams about her, even obsessed about her to the point that when she came strolling down the street around his new assignment, he swore he conjured her up.  But what was she doing here?  And how was it that she was more captivating then the last time they bumped into each other?

So this is the story.  It is a unique tale beautifully woven with paranormal entities and an ever thickening plot.  It moved along with absolutely no dry spells through Mira's growth and transformation to a completely new entity.  Being a newbie to this series, I'm not aware if they explained certain aspects before, but I wasn't lost or confused and was able to jump right in.  LOL...well fall right in.  It was definitely a gripping book that sucked you because dull moments did not exsist in this realm.  Hats off to you Regan!!  It was truly comparable to Nalini's Psy series, and I hope I do not insult Regan with the comparison because Nalini is one of my favorite authors!!!  I will be going back to grab book one - four!!!  Thank you Regan for the absolutely gripping and wonderful read!

Winners!!

Lets Post some Winners!!

I had to do a redraw for The Lure of Shapinsay Giveaway!

And the winner is.....bookaddict!!!!lol...or Elizabeth @ bookaddict!

I have 4 winners for this hop:
Romance package:....Patti P.
Warrior package...Sophia Rose
Vampire package...SexyBlogger
Nightworld:...Lexi

Congrads to all my winners!!  They have all been emailed and have 48 hours to respond or I will redraw!! A big thank you to everyone out there who entered!!!

Falling In Between By: Devon Ashley

Welcome to CEWTNK!  I am part of Devon Ashley's Blog Tour.  I will have her on again next month interviewing one of the characters in her book.  Today I am going to post my review on her work.  Let's take a look at the book details:

Finally! A private conversation. And all I had to do was throw myself off a cliff, drown in a pond in my undies and let him put his hands on my breasts to bring me back to life. Yay me! (yeah, that’s sarcasm)

Yep, that pretty much sums up the most craptastic night of Jenna Baker’s life. She drowns after jumping off a cliff, meets a hotty named Chance in the pearlescent in-between and is brought back to life by her soon-to-be boyfriend Robert.

Just when things start to move forward with Robert, the guy she'd been crushing on for a year now, in walks the man of her dreams – literally. Chance suddenly appears in her dream every time she closes her eyes. So it's Robert by day and Chance by night. One in the real world and one in the dream world. What could possibly go wrong?

Absolutely nothing – until she comes face to face with the guy she met in the in-between, and realizes her romantic rendezvous with Chance may be more than just her imagination.  My Review This was the first book I have read by Devon, so I wasn't sure what to expect.  But I must say I am extremely happy that I signed up for her tour!!  Our story begins with two teenage girls sneaking around trying to get into some mischief.  Pretty normal for around that age:). Jenna had been avoiding jumping off of the cliff into the pond.  Yes, she had seen her roommate successfully jump several times, but it didn't make it any easier for her to do it.  She had taken the walk of shame, rather than jump, a few times before.  She had convinced herself that if she could make this jump, then she ultimately could finally dredge up the nerve to talk to Robert.  Scary thing was the jump off the cliff was looking like a breeze in comparison.  So she jumps, and almost drowns.  This is why I always walked away from dares because that would have sooo happened to me.  Luckily, her crush just happened to not only be on the swimteam, but also close by when her roommate starting screaming for help.  So Robert, her crush, has now become her personal hero.  But something happens to Jenna before Robert finds her and brings her back to life.  She finds herself in a rainbow void where she bumps into another person.  And just before CPR brings her back from the dead, a connection between them sparks to lifeJenna is a loner, not necessarily by choice, but she has learned not to get close to anyone.  Her roommate being the only exception.  They were instant friends upon meeting and Jenna found it impossible not to let her in.  After she wakes up in the hospital, she is surprised to see that her roommate isn't the only one who has been visiting.  Robert had consistently stayed with her as well.  As bad as she knew she looked, she was incredibly happy that her crush finally noticed her.  Who knew a near-death experience would finally land her a date?  But after she comes off of her medication, she starts dreaming of another guy, the same one she met in the void.  And that's when her life really becomes interesting.Jenna has been unable to emotionally connect with anyone most of her life.  So when Chance suddenly appears every night in her dreams, she feels as if its ok to be free with him because, well, he is just a dream.  Through her experiences with Chance, she forms an emotional bond with him.  One that is shocking hard to break.  She truly is living two completely different lives, one by day, and the other in her dreams.  In reality, its hard to say who actually saved who in this book.  While Robert saved Jenna from dying, I think Chance helped Jenna actual live.  Before the accident Jenna was so focused on her grades that she wasn't enjoying anything going on around her.  Chance helped her see that it was ok to let people in.  So was Chance real or just her dream guy?   That you'll have to find out for yourself!!  This book was an excellent read and had very lovable and relateable characters in it.  I was enchanted with this book and enjoyed it immensely.  I will defiantly be keeping an eye out for Devon's future works!!! 

 Devon is also giving away a doodlegraph during this tour and a few stops along the way are hosting giveaways.  Click here to enter and take a look at the tour schedule : http://devonashleywrites.blogspot.com/p/falling-in-between-blog-tour-giveaway.html

$10 Amazon card + E-book giveaway of Ghosts of Rosewood Asylum and interview with Stephen Prosapio

In celebration of Stephen's rerelease, Ghosts of Rosewood Asylum, he has generously offered not only a copy of his great book but also a $10 Amazon Card to one lucky commenter!!  I was lucky enough to catch an interview with him, as he is on tour right now, to get inside the mind behind this great book!! 

Welcome to CEWTNK Stephen!!  I’m so glad you could make it!!

Nikki, thanks for having me.

So Stephen, how old were you when you first realized you wanted to write?

I was an avid reader at a very young age. I gobbled up books at the library. I remember wandering around it, gazing at the rows and rows of books. I suppose it was my first crush, reading and my first love.

I remember at about nine or ten-years old telling my mom that I’d like to write a book. She looked at me and said, “Well Steve, people go to school for years and years to learn how to write books.”

I showed her. I went to school years and years and never wrote any. People told me along the way how I’d missed my calling. Finally, I found it.

LOL…rebelled against the gift eh? Most authors have an unusual story or way that they come up with their ideas for books…Do you have one?

I do. With my first novel, Dream War, I woke up one day and there was a key on my key ring that I had NO CLUE what it was for or how it had gotten there. It got me to thinking. What if someone knew they were under surveillance and had a key to another dimension (of course almost all of my ideas involve something really kooky!)?  Maybe he’d “hide” it on a neighbor’s key ring hoping to snatch it back after the heat died down. Ultimately the book transformed into something much differently, but that original idea helped get me going.

And eventually I did find out what MY key was for!

Hmm..Last time I woke trying to find a key..well..that’s for another time!! What was your biggest influence that steered you towards writing?

Well, I’d have to say reading. I honestly think that any prospective writer needs to start as a reader. Just “coming up with an idea” isn’t enough. You need to see what’s out there. What others are doing that’s working. I read sometimes and I get sooooo jealous at the way another writer turns a phrase. “Why didn’t I think of that?”

I do the same thing when I reading through interviews..Why didn’t I think to ask them that? LOL..I have to ask, what are the hardest scenes for you to write?

I’m currently reading a book about Lincoln. In the preface, the author talked about being so engrossed in the writing that he found himself somewhat shell shocked to finish writing and find himself in the 20^th Century (the book was written in 1977). I could relate. When I’m in a writing zone, I often find myself mentally rehearsing the parts of the people in the scene the way an actor might. Thus intensely emotional scenes are difficult. Afterward, I’m typically exhausted.

LOl…Good exercise!! Do you see yourself writing in another genre?

Sure. I also see myself as winning Major League Baseball’s Cy Young Award and winning the Mega Millions lottery. Time will tell I guess. The Cy Young might have to wait until the next life.

Ah…I can always see myself winning the lottery, a truly shared dream!! Has your family been supportive?

Yes. Very supportive. My dad has been bugging me for a year and a half for the next book. Of course his first comment to me after reading Ghosts of Rosewood Asylum was, “It was good. I don’t know if it was a series if I’d read more of them though.”

Gee. Thanks, Dad.

I think that’s just a dad way..Are any of your characters reflective of you?

I guess to some extent they all are, or maybe they begin as fractions of me. Bits and pieces of recollections. Then they (ideally) grow into full-fledged characters.

What do you like to do when you're not writing?

Read. It’s shocking how much reading a writer needs to do these days. First, any writer not keeping up with their genre is bound to flounder. Next, keeping up with the goings on in the publishing industry:  trends, news, technology, players etc is pretty important. And of course there is reading for pleasure.

Well, that definitely sounds like a full time job plus some! Who is your favorite book heroine?

Dolores Claiborne.

LOL…now that is an interesting answer!! Do you have any unusual habits that revolve around writing?

You mean like writing in the nude and shouting, “Surrender Dorothy” every time I type the word “wizard”? Why, um, no. Of course not. Not like that. Honest!

I do have a ritual that works to get me in the mood/zone. I read. I set a timer for usually 23 or 34 minutes (lucky numbers of mine) and do NOTHING but write until the timer goes off. Sometimes it’s hell—pure drudgery—other times the timer goes off and I write for another hour. Regardless, when I honor those timed units, sooner or later I get into a good zone.

Hmm…I’m skeptical now…nude writing? LOL!!What is your favorite mystical creature?

Mermaids. Maybe Sirens.

Ah..The half naked alluring sea creatures JWhat were some of your biggest challenges at the beginning of your career?

Interesting question. I’m still at the beginning of my career. At least I hope I am. I think the challenge for most writers, especially early in their careers, is trying to connect with their readers—expanding their fan base.

On the writing front, my biggest challenge was not “over writing” scenes. My stuff was coming off melodramatic rather than dramatic. Sometimes less is more.

How do you feel about reader comments?

I love them. I’m a firm believer that there are no good writers, just good rewriters. I feel like one of the best things I do as a writer is incorporate feedback into my work.

Do you have any advice for new authors?

Keep writing! Stay abreast of the tidal wave of changes happening in the publishing industry. Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks.

Where are your books available?

“Everywhere books are sold.” A saying which has become somewhat of a pet peeve of mine. People need to be reminded that not EVERY book is in EVERY bookstore, but they can order it. Unfortunately, it appears, that people working bookstores sometimes talk them out of ordering what they want, for what they’ve got in stock. That said. I’m online everywhere. DREAM WAR is digital only, but GHOSTS OF ROSEWOOD ASYLUM is available in all formats.

What can we expect from you in the future?

I just completed the second in the Xavier Paranormal Investigators series—the follow up to GHOSTS OF ROSEWOOD ASYLUM. After that, I’ve got a paranormal mystery series in mind. I’d also like to write part II in the DREAM WAR trilogy.

Where can we reach you and become informed of updates?

My website:  www.prosapio.com

The XPI website:  www.xavierparanormal.com

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

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/#!/stephenprosapio

Thank you so much Stephen for visiting with us today!!! Now let’s take a look at Ghosts of Rosewood Asylum:

Zach Kalusky, host of Sci-D TV's Xavier Paranormal Investigators, is ecstatic when he's given the opportunity to explore the most haunted site in Chicago for a Halloween Special: Rosewood Asylum, a place long made off-limits by the local government, plagued by decades of mysterious fires and unexplained events. It's Zach's dream investigation- but there's a catch: the network forces Xavier Paranormal Investigators to partner with the more dramatic-but less ethical-Demon Hunters. Now, Zach must fight for both his show's integrity and his team's loyalty while trying to protect his own secret: that he, himself, is possessed.


The book sounds absolutely amazing!!  Steve will be back with me next month for my first kiss promo :) Just fill out the rafflecopter below to enter in the drawing!  Here is a link to the rest of the book tour http://www.otherworldpublications.com/owp-calendar-of-events  Good Luck!!

Review: A Breach of Promise by Victoria Vane

On the night of her betrothal, Lydia Trent receives just a taste of what ecstasy will be at the hands of her fiancé…and then he leaves her wanting. After waiting six years, and tired of being neglected by her exceedingly reluctant husband-to-be, Lydia decides to break it off.

When Marcus, Lord Russell, receives Lydia’s letter requesting a release from their contract, he is stunned by her audacity. Confident he’ll have her eating out of his hand with his usual wit and charm, he’s determined to repair the damage. However, the headstrong woman she’s blossomed into is equally determined to thwart his every effort to win her back.

Marcus discovers, in spite of her conviction to end the union, Lydia is more responsive to his touch than he ever imagined. He just needs to get her alone to unleash the promised passion he sees within his wanton virgin. Marcus will use any tool in his arsenal to exploit her weakness—his kisses, his hands, his mouth…her own body. In short, he’ll just have to ruin her!  My Review:Historical Romances are where most readers started when they jumped out of the classics.  I have a fondness for this particularly category because it allowed me an escape from this time for many years.  But I just love the newer historical romances!!  Gone are the quivering and cowering virgins and in waltz the new age girls decked out in old-fashion attire!  I would like to imagine that there were many heroic women back then, and Lydia would be an excellent example.  She is promised to Lord Russell at an early age, since the mothers of the two in question were as close as sisters.  A union between the houses was a much anticipated event.  Lydia was also extremely excited by her good fortune because Marcus was very handsome and charming.  The night their engagement was to be officially announced, Marcus arrives horribly late and Lydia is completely crushed.  Marcus offers to take Lydia for a stroll in the gardens, which turns into a wickedly yummy scenario unfolding on a swing.  But after that fateful night that leaves Lydia on cloud nine and dreaming of him every night, he never comes to call.  Six long years have passed and Lydia has finally had enough.  She puts pen to paper to inform her reluctant groom that she wishes to break off the engagement.  But will she wiggle out of this so easily? Marcus had been busy trying to secure a name for himself .  True, he had no wish to marry, but he did not object to the thought of marrying Lydia.  He had good intentions in the beginning, that soon rose into being unable to face her because of guilt.  Six years was a bit long but he had every intentions of keeping his promise and marrying her, eventually.  So when the letter arrived while he was in town about her wish to break off the engagement, Marcus was shocked.  What happened to his meek little wallflower?  Determined to charm his way back into her good graces, he sends for her.  But this dashing rogue has no idea that he is about to meet his match!! Lydia is all grown up and has blossomed into a beautiful woman, so much so that Marcus doesn't recognize her.  His flowery words and apologetic excuses fall on deaf ears and much to his shock are rebutted and thrown back at him.  Lydia is no simpering female to fall to the floor because of his beautiful smile!!  So the battle begins between these two very-like minded and intelligent characters.  Marcus's mom, hands down, is my favorite character.  She is the master manipulator throughout this story!  But the interactions between the characters are completely entertaining!  And the sex scenes?  Completely red hot! I love my books with some spice, and this little historical romance is actually hot!  This book was very detailed and flowed quite beautifully from start to finish.  Mrs. Vane, you have captured my attention and I look forward to reading more of your books!!  I have been entirely seduced by your Breach of Promise!! 



Giveaway and Guest Post by Leanore Elliot and her Realm of Fire

Hello Everyone!!  Today I have with me one of my favorite and now wickedly award-winning authors Leanore Elliot!!  She will be popping in all this week to say Hi and answer any questions that you may have.  So make her work for it..LOL!  Take it away Leanore:

Hello, Close Encounters! I am stopping by to…LIGHT A FIRE! LOL I wanted to talk about one of my unique books, Realm Of Fire. With this one, I became a Mystery writer without even knowing it. I was in suspense and wondered how it would turn out just like the reader would. I wondered just what the heck was happening to this girl-firefighter.

To describe it? I have decided to let the readers do that for you.

Grammy (Amazon reader)

Our story begins in the middle of a fire, with teams of special firefighters working diligently on digging berms and taking equipment to places to get a handle on this blaze. All the firefighters are not men, one woman is amongst them Cybele, Belle for short. She's a member of the Hotshots, an elite corps, trained for these missions. With her, John Saxon watches from a distance. Her best friend in the Corp is Buck, another fighter. Both men are tall and handsome.

(I can feel the heat, my lips are parched and the brightness of the flames hurt my eyes, the descriptions bring you right on to the page.)

Monique (Owner and founder of Romance Novel Junkies)

Belle always had a thing for fires as long as she could remember. But as soon as she joined the force her nightmares began and they became more intense as time goes by. They then started to include her co-worker Saxon, who she really dislikes, she thinks he's cute but she really disliked him as well. The dreams becomes more sensual, and she isn't able to explain it. Belle becomes confused and thinks she's going crazy with her dreams and voices she hears, which are that of Saxon and Buck.

(I started reading not knowing what to expect and found myself talking back to my ebook reading device.)

(Loves to dive)Penelope Adams, Reviewer for The PRG

She is smart, tough as nails and not bad on the eyes. Saxon and Buck are as different as day and night, neither of whom most women would say no to. The play between Belle and Buck is fun to listen to; Buck's bad jokes and quips just make you giggle. There are some hot, hot, hot love scenes that will leave one fanning themselves and grabbing a glass of something cool.

It seems Buck and Saxon have a secret and soon, Belle will be pulled into a world beyond the Realm of Fire.

(I highly recommend this novella to anyone who likes hot people having hot sex and enjoys a twist or two along the way.)

Well, I do like that last line…"hot people, having hot sex" Yeah, that's how I like my mysteries!

FIRE EXTINGUISHER EXCERPT

“Shh,” he purred to her lips and spread her legs apart as his warm fingers probed her.

“Unh,” she breathed out as his caressing fingers played with her clit.

“We were interrupted before at just about...” He stuck a finger into her. “Here.” He lowered his mouth to hers and pushed his tongue inside.

Belle gasped and felt his finger pumping her and her own moisture seeped out between her legs as his plunging tongue dipped into her mouth. She couldn’t focus and she knew there were things they needed to talk about. But what were they?

Saxon lowered his mouth to her nipple and drew it in.

Belle stilled and shocks rippled along her skin as he switched to the other, and she panted with building need.

He took his time licking her nipples and caressing each one with his tongue. “I looked at these the entire time you were here before and my mouth watered for a taste.” He placed his mouth back on one and sucked with a gentle tugging. “Now I’m so gonna to fill my mouth with them,” he stated to her hardening nipple, lowering his hot mouth and continuing the oral assault.

After a few moments, Belle squirmed and struggled desperately for air. Instinctively pushing away from his mouth, she pushed her feet down on the bed. With a surprised gasp, she slid across those slippery, magic silk sheets.

Saxon tugged her back with a laugh, lifting her body onto his and wrapping his arms around her. “Just tell me no,” he whispered to her ear and tugged at her hair just as he used to do when they were kids.

Her body trembled. “I’ve always wanted you and I can’t tell you no,” she whispered back.

He set her away a little and grasped her face with both hands to look into her eyes. “I’m going to get into your realm now, Cybelle,” he threatened in a low voice and lifted her hips, setting her onto his waiting lap. She gasped loudly as his hard erect cock entered her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thanks for having me Nikki, and as usual, I'm giving away the heat. Three of your commenters will win a free copy of Realm Of Fire.

You know I love having you here!!  Just fill out the rafflecopter form below!!  Good luck!!

Review of Realm of Fire by Leanore Elliot

Blurb:
The meanest, grittiest work on Earth, fighting a demon with a roaring power to burn away land, animals and human flesh from the bone.

Belle was doing what she'd dreamed of, for her whole life. She was a Hotshot, part of the most elite force in the world of firefighters. All her dreams about fighting fire had come true. And that's when the nightmares began.

Dreams of that all-encompassing fire which reappeared again and again.... Burned charcoal-like remnants of what used to be living things lie scattered in an endless, gruesome array. She searched through the gloom and there was no trace of anything alive, while the death of scorched earth, trees and brush spread out before her vision. "Belle!" The voice shouted in her ear as she sat upright. She peered down to find her uniform and all of her fire gear burned away from her body.

It was the voice of Saxon, one of the crew members. He was always there while she fought fires and while she fought the nightmares. Was it premonition? Or was she cracking up? Maybe it was all manipulated by him and he was after her, but why?

Nothing is as it seems in the Realm—The Realm of Fire.

Review:
Belle was your average balls to the walls adrenaline junkie, that just so happen to also have a love and fascination with fire.  So it came as no surprise that when she grew up, she joined the most elite firefighting team where women are unheard of.  But being the only woman didn't bother her.  This was what she signed up for....or was it?  Belle has one true friend on her team and one man that completely rubs her the wrong way.  But was the rubbing friction, fire or a little of both?

Saxon had been searching for her for a long time and finally found her.  He knew she had always been drawn to fire but never actually believed that she would be fighting it.  He tries unsuccessfully to talk to her, but she keeps blowing him off.  If he can't get close to her, how can he make her remember who  he is?

There is no secret that I am a huge fan of Leanore Elliot's.  Her steamy novels have left me hot and bothered wishing for that particular hero to be prevalent in my life.  This book is no exception.  Saxon has been in love with Belle all of his life, even though she keeps running from him.  In this instance, the gap was a little too long and she has forgotten about him.  This doesn't deter him.  He would go through hell and back again just to have her.  He has proven it countless times. But this Realm is determined to hold her.  Will he finally triumph in his quest for her heart?  I loved Saxon :)  He was my favorite character.  Although the story doesn't have many of Leanore's melting sex scenes, it in no way takes away from her story.  This one has an adult fairytale ring to it that I found utterly enchanting!!  The concept behind this story was beautifully woven and  thoroughly enjoyable, as well as the characters!  I can't wait until the next addition!!

Giveaway and Guest Post of Author Bonnie Bliss and her newest Whips and Wax

Hello my naughty readers!!  Today I have a sizzling special ready to serve up to you!!!  I have Bonnie Bliss here today to give us a little insight behind the lifestyle.  Take it away Bonnie!!

BDSM realistic longevity….

I figured seeing as Whips and Wax was a BDSM erotica novella I would take some time to touch on a topic that may be unknown to some readers. Longevity during a scene, and how long a sub really can last before she, well, passes out.

I not only write BDSM I live the lifestyle. My husband and I have been playing for two years. And with each session I seem to be able to take more, and go for longer. It also helps that I have the best Dom for me. He can read me, knows how to push and hold back, and boy can the man test a hard limit. The reality is—everyone is different. What I may be able to take, the next sub may only be able to take half that play before she goes over the edge hits subspace and the scene is done.

Whips and Wax plays out in the course of a day, where Marie is caught breaking the rules and her punishment begins with forced orgasms. Not only is that scene very intense, but there are breaks in the middle of these orgasms. It takes the scene that could have been thirty minutes of bliss and a stint in subspace, and makes it drawn out, and more pleasing for both Dom and sub. It is a delicate process that, if you have a great Dom, will last for a long time. I have found that my ability to last long has increased. In the beginning I would hit my high point in under an hour and the scene was over. Exhausted and well used, I would be cared for and it would be all about another day.

However, after living with play sessions when we could get them, I have come to learn that I can last far longer than I used to. The reality vs. fantasy is hard to decipher, some people might say it is impossible. I know that people during Whips and Wax will question how much Marie is taking. Mixing fantasy with reality in this genre is a very delicate process. I like to be as true to life as possible. Yes, I am writing erotica, the sexual content is higher in my books. But I like to show the reader what is possible, what can be done, and what you can ultimately achieve if you handle all play with care.

Aftercare plays a big part in pushing a scene forward. If you are going to do a scene that lasts longer than an hour or even two, you have to find the balance. You have to care for the sub with a gentle, yet firm hand. You must not read a scene and go “I can do that, look at that, how can I do that all day.” In reality you most likely can’t. Will Marie blow your mind with how long she can last? Yes, she will. But she has breaks. She has the after care of Neil that will help her continue play throughout the day. Should you try this at home later tonight with your husband or significant other? Not without proper and safe play.

 I am ready to have my mind blown :)  Let's take a look at Whips and Wax:

Marie's day starts out fine when a hot delivery man brings her a new leather corset.After giving him a hot glimpse of her body she can't resist trying it on and masturbating in it
along with the matching leather thong.Neil comes home early and catches her in the act and the long hard punishment begins.

After four forced orgasms its down to the dungeon, tied up, no control, Sir whips his kitten and follows with hot wax play, ending with the rough hard fuck they both enjoy.

Follow the whole hot story in Whips and Wax, culminating in the perfect end, the collar, Sirs kitten is truly Owned!

Sneak Peek:

She laughed and cried at the same time. Her body thrust over the edge of any sort of sanity. Her hips bucked against him, the firm hit of his cock against her blood filled clit made it all slap down against her and she came. For him, for her Sir, for her lover, and husband, the only man that could make her peak like she had fireworks going off inside her body. Her juices shot from her, the pain it induced, the pleasure, all of it made her thrash her head back and forth. And still he taunted, thrusting, making her laugh. One thing they had learned about her, when she came hard—she laughed.

Neil had no intention of cumming yet. This was Marie’s time. He sat up, lifting his cock from her clit. She needed a few minutes to come down from the high. Neil swung himself off the bed and moved to look at her face. Stroking her hair while cupping her breast gently, he asked her. “Are you okay kitten?” Her eyes responded before her voice.

“Yes Sir.” She was sweating. A light sheen covered her forehead. And she had just lied to Sir.

“My shoulders are sore, Sir.” A light blush painted her cheeks at her correction. It might earn her a new punishment.

Neil leant down and softly kissed her lips.

“Thank you for being honest, kitten.”

He leant over and untied the belts, allowing her to sit up and stretch a little. He watched as she rubbed her wrists. Neil massaged her sore shoulder, pressing his fingertips into the tender flesh. Just as he finished he heard the front door bell.

“I’ll be right back.”

He grabbed his jeans from the chair and pulled them on, then left the room. Stepping down two stairs at a time he reached the door in seconds. He grabbed the keys on the telephone table and unlocked the door. A man in his forties stood with a parcel in his hand.

“Mr. Jones, a delivery for you, can you sign here please?”

“Yes, are you nearly finished for the day?” Neil took the electronic pad and scribbled his signature.

“I wish, I finish at six.”

“Crikey. At least you have good weather and it’s the weekend tomorrow.”

The courier laughed. “Yes, there is that. There you go, enjoy your afternoon.”

“Oh I will. Thank you.” Neil took his parcel and locked the door behind him. He knew what it was. Should he hide it and save it for later? He paused at the bottom of the stairs and thought about it. Marie had blatantly opened her corset and thong. Did she deserve this treat right now, her treat? Not really, it was Neil’s. He walked up the stairs and along the landing to the bedroom once more.

Marie had come around, she was ready for more. Her eyes lit up when she saw the box he carried. Neil put his finger to his lips.

“I’m glad this came while I was home. I’ll open it with you once I’ve finished with you, you naughty kitten. “

Just to tease her he placed the new package six inches from her head on the pillow. So close she would be able to smell the cardboard packaging. He watched the tension mount, her pupils dilated, her little pink tongue darted out and brushed over her lips in anticipation.

 This just sounds yummy!!!  So what do you need to do for your chance to grab a copy of this hot novel?  Just fill out the rafflecopter form below!!  Be sure to check out the rest of Bonnie's tour stops:

January

24 – Guest Blog @ Close Encounters with the Night Kind

25 – Interview @ Mike Woody

27 – Book Spotlight @ Sara Trimble

30 – Guest Blog @ Seriously Reviewed

31 – Book Spotlight @ Tamaria Soana

February

1 – Guest Blog @ Romance Book Junkies

6 – Guest Blog @ Mommies Point of View

10 – Character Interview @ Sexxy Blogger