Romancing the Hop Blog Hop

 

Hello and Welcome to this stop on the blog hop!  Books have been an important part of my life since I was around 3 years old.  I have enjoyed countless fairy tales and mysteries, and then at the age of 11 I got a hold of my very first romance novel.  I was hooked.  Since that day I have branched out and read all types of romance from paranormal to historical to contemporary to scy-fy to erotica and finally BDSM.  I can honestly save I have truly loved them all, as long as they have an HEA.  I believe in torturing your characters as much as you like, just in the end give them a version of an HEA, even if it comes 5 books from now!!  LOL!!  To help celebrate my love for romance I have joined in this hop.  You have the opportunity to win 2 prizes here:  $10 amazon card and a copy of a very sexy book entitled A Measured Risk.  But there is more!!  We also have a grand prize giveaway for a few lucky commenters.  SO remember to comment and Leave your Email address!!!!!  Here are the details for the grand prize:

 

Make sure you comment on EVERY stop.  The comments are what get you in for the main prize!!  So yes, you have the opportunity to get over 100 entries for 3 grand prizes!! 

 

Now what are those prizes?

1st Grand Prize: A Kindle Fire or Nook Tablet

2nd Grand Prize: A $130 Amazon or B&N Gift Card

3rd Grand Prize: The following Swag Pack!

 

 

 

Now....What can you win here?  I'm giving away 2 prizes.  The first is an e-copy of :

 

 

Book one in the Regency Risks Series

He is her most dangerous temptation, the only man she has ever trusted and now he is demanding her submission. Dare she take the risk?

Emotionally scarred in the horrific accident that took her husband’s life, Lady Cranfield is imprisoned by her lingering terror of horses and carriages. Lady Cranfield longed to be closer to the fascinating Earl of Ruel. She sensed intuitively that he could teach her how to overcome the terrors that held her in bondage.

And now she’s willing to risk almost anything-her reputation, even her virtue-to find out. But what he proposes startles her.

When the shy, studious and socially awkward young widow approached him, Ruel instantly sensed she would be the sweetest, most submissive experience of a lifetime-if only he can gain her total and complete trust. He makes her a non-negotiable offer. His help in return for her submission and obedience.

But Lady Cranfield grew up neglected by her ducal parents, raised by servants and then later ignored by her handsome, charming husband. She’s learnt to protect her heart at all costs and she trusts no one but herself.

How can the jaded Earl of Ruel break through her self-protective defences and show her how to love when he has spent his lifetime avoiding that tender trap?


Reader Advisory: This is a work of historical fiction, it is not meant to be an accurate portrayal of or guide to how people recover from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. It is also not meant to be an accurate portrayal of modern BDSM or D/s lifestyles.

This is a work of Erotic Historical Romance and it uses the graphic language and situations of Erotic Romance.  You can take a look at my review HERE

 

And a $10 amazon card!!  Just fill out the rafflecopter for your chance to win.  If you are just commenting, answer this question:  What is your favorite sub-genre of romance?

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Sweet, Sexy, Scorching Giveaway Hop

 

An enchanted book, a mysterious evil, and a protective alpha male…
Who could ask for more? 

When Meru Tanner receives a mysterious birthday present, The Book of Veils, her world is turned upside down. Now she’s “seeing” things that aren’t supposed to be real, gabbing with gods and having erotic premonitions about one sexy wolf-man she’d do anything to tame.

 

She tempted the feral beast inside him to come out and play. Damon Arkadios has kept the animal part of his nature leashed for thousands of years. He is a guardian, the leader of the Fianna warriors — but from the moment he caught her scent, he knew she was more than just another assignment. Protecting the sexy little seer will challenge his own beliefs — and his control.

 

Their lust quickly spins out of control, even as danger lurks behind every corner. Can she accept the legacy handed down to her from the distant past and convince her Lycan to be a part of her future? Or will the ancient evil that threatens to destroy their world keep them from making a new beginning together?

 

Book 2 of Temptation Unveiled continues the magic with two Vikings, a curse, and a battle to the death at a Renaissance Festival….
It bears repeating. Two Vikings. 

Twins Hawk and Val are Fianna warriors under the vengeful curse of a scorned goddess. Following the prophecy in the Book of Veils, they search for the one who can help them retrieve the Claíomh Solais before their enemies get the chance.

 

Their quest leads them to Linnea. One touch and there can be no doubt that they have found their match. But will she accept them once she knows the truth?

 

Linnea is no one special. So why is she on the run from evil faeries and her egotistical ex? Why is she suddenly spending time in the company of dragons, druids and one kinky Viking with a split personality? All she knows is she has to keep her family safe from danger, and her heart safe from another betrayal.

 

RG will be giving away a $10.00 gift card to Amazon or Barnes and Noble!!

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blog Barrage: The Pirates of Vampire Island

 

 

Title: The Pirates of Vampire Island, A Paranormal Romantic Thriller

Series: Steamy Voyages, Series #1

Author: Phoenix and Lover Boy

Publisher: Self (Amazon and B&N)

Length: 61,700 words

Genres: Paranormal Romance (Adventure)

Heat Level: Sizzling

 

AVAILABLE AT:

Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/Pirates-Paranormal-Romantic-Thriller-ebook/dp/B0090OOOX6

 

B&N – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-pirates-of-vampire-island-a-paranormal-romantic-thriller-steamy-voyages-1-phoenix-and-lover-boy/1112584812

 

 

 Blurb:  Pretty Jane O'Doherty always chooses the wrong kind of guys. Her specialty seems to be guys who have serious flaws and who break her heart.  Her last breakup was a year ago and still she can hear his final words, "I'm sorry, Jane. I've found someone else."  A 30-day cruise through the exotic Indonesian Islands with her best friend seems like the perfect distraction to mend her broken heart. On board, she meets devastatingly gorgeous Nick, who attracts women in droves, including our lovely Jane.  And she meets Peter, who is the cute geek with puppy dog eyes.

Will either one just lead to another broken heart?
Should she run the other way from them both and just enjoy the cruise?

But before Jane can decide, the ship is attacked by modern day pirates. Unlike the pirates of old, these guys are vampires and are more interested in human treasure than gold and jewels. They take over the ship and take twelve women hostage. And the handsome pirate leader-with eerie chalk-white skin, and red eyes, is looking for a special prize. He wants a woman for his mate and queen . . .
Jane catches his eye, but she, along with Nick and Peter, manage to escape in a lifeboat and onto the open sea.  They drift for fourteen days before finally finding an island.  But the fates are cruel, and their island turns out to be the home of the pirates and the lair of the Vampire.  The Pirates of Vampire Island is non-stop action . . . filled with adventure, suspense . . . and steamy romance.

Sneak Inside:

 

As we approached the outdoor swimming pool on the top deck, I saw dark clouds threatening a storm. My hair was whipping in the wind. I shivered. Bad idea. But Remy was undaunted. She immediately ran and did a cannonball. As I stood wondering if I should just go back to the cabin, a waiter came up, a small, dark boy about sixteen, probably a native of the area. He wore a short white jacket with epaulets and black pants.

 

"Would you like a drink, mum?"

 

"How about a snow suit?" I laughed. "Just kidding. No, I'm good for now." I surveyed the sunbathers and swimmers. There he was. As usual, he was surrounded by women. He was dressed in a simple white pullover sweater and tan slacks, but the cut and fabric screamed money. His luxurious, curly black hair whipped in the wind, making him look very unkempt, rugged, and nonchalant, as if fine grooming was so not important because he was stunningly handsome no matter what he wore or did.

 

"Excuse me, sir?" I said.

 

The waiter turned.

 

"What's that guy's name? The one with the black curly hair."

 

"Nickolas Angelopoulos." He stood for a moment. "Anything else I can help you with?"

 

"Nope. Thank you," I said, not taking my eyes off the amazing-looking man.

 

"You're gawking."

 

I shook myself and looked down. Remy was hanging on the side of the pool. "Yeah, I guess I am."

 

Enough of that.

 

"I'm coming in." I walked over to the diving board and performed a perfect dive. I had always been very athletic, and I knew my body showed it.

 

I swam several laps, trying not to look at this guy named Nickolas, and climbed out of the pool, dripping water, and squeezing it out of my thick mane. I shivered a little in the cool wind, and as I finished drying, I saw out of the corner of my eye that Nicholas was staring at me – well, at my chest anyway. I looked down to see that my nipples were perfectly erect through my black bikini. I quickly draped my towel around my shoulders so it covered my breasts and was suddenly looking for a quick way to exit.

   

Spotlight On: Last Vamp Standing

Back Cover Blurb:
Tortured by demonic voices, Dante’s soul is as black as they come. But when he meets Ariana—an innocent vampire fighting demons of her own—he second-guesses everything he’s ever known about sacrifice, passion, and soul-scorching love.
Before Dante wages war against Crimson Bay’s greatest threat, he must make a choice: love Ariana the way she deserves, risking her life in the process—or fight to protect her, unleashing the monster he’s determined to bury.
Purchase Links:
Amazon.com: http://amzn.to/QYDl3k
Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/Op3Mj5

Author Bio:
Kristin Miller has had a passion for language and literature her whole life. Born and raised in Small Town USA, she often made up stories about faraway places and edge-of-your-seat adventures.
After graduating from Humboldt State University with a degree in psychology, Kristin realized there is no scarier place than the warped human psyche. Wanting to combine her love of writing with her desire to paint twisted villains, Kristin wound up in the unlikeliest of places—the classroom. She taught high school and middle school English before giving in to the desire to create her own world, where villains can be sympathetic and heroes can be devilishly good.
She is represented by Nalini Akolekar of Spencerhill Associates Ltd. and writes dark paranormal romances and toe curling romantic suspense.

Giveaway Details:
Two random commenters from the entire tour will win their choice of either a Kindle or Nook format eBook of
Last Vamp Standing.
The tour host with the most comments will receive a Kindle or Nook format eBook of Last Vamp Standing.
Please leave a comment along with your broken up email addy.
Contest is open the duration of the tour (August 20 - September 7) and Internationally.
Winner will be randomly selected and notified via email.
Tour Stops:
Additional tour stops can be found at:
http://events.litconnect.com/last-vamp-standing-by-kristin-miller
The more stops readers comment on, the greater their chance of winning.

**** If you use Rafflecopter for your giveaways ****

Conduct your giveaways the way you normally would, however, you must include the following details for your commenters: The randomly selected Rafflecopter winner from this blog, will go into the final drawing for the tour giveaway. All drawings use random.org to select a winner. You will also need to keep the drawing open the duration of the tour.
Rafflecopter Extra Entries:
‘Like’ Kristin on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kristin.miller.102
Follow Kristin on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/KM_Miller
You will then need to email me the selected winner (name and email addy) from your blog by September 10, 2012 (a few days following the end of the tour).
Find Kristin at:
Website: http://www.kristinmiller.net/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/KM_Miller
 
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kristin.miller.102

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1222405.Kristin_Miller?origin

 

 

Thanks so much for having me on the blog today!  I’m taking you to Chapter One of Last Vamp Standing. You’ve missed a prologue, where Dante and Ariana are teleported out of a vampire elder black market and into the forest surrounding Ariana’s haven, Black Moon.

Enjoy!

 Sneak Peek:

If the Watcher sucking face with a platinum-blonde wood nymph in front of Black Moon’s ocean access gate wasn’t already hovering on the brink of excommunication, Ariana would’ve had him thrown out on his ass. He wasn’t supposed to sneak back to their haven to body-rock with a scantily clad nympho on a healing binge. He was supposed to be at his post, just outside the ring of fir trees in the forest, watching over her body as she astral-projected to the streets of San Francisco.

If he’d done his job, she might’ve been able to do hers.

Now, because he’d been distracted by velvet words and the jerk of a tiny hand, a vampire from the elder black market had piggybacked on Ariana’s projection.

He’d gotten too close to their haven, to her.

Ariana could still feel the heat from his liquid gold eyes scorching across her skin. And even though she hadn’t gotten more than five minutes with him—at the black market when he’d caught her eye, then the forest when she’d told him never to think of her again—he was permanently etched into her memory. He had disheveled, chestnut-brown hair that she longed to graze her fingers through. A hard, set jaw that showed every strain of his body, and broad, warrior shoulders that could bear the weight of the world.

She’d never met anyone like him.

Everything Ariana had learned about vampire elders didn’t prepare her for what had happened back there, with him. Elders had mawares—powers bestowed upon them when they transitioned into the ethereal Ever After—and Ariana thought she’d seen them all: orbs of protection, wicked cool time warping skills, control over the weather or elements … but she’d never seen a run-of-the-mill vamp teleport.

But that was exactly what her vamp had done.

Except instead of teleporting them to his destination of choice, wherever that might’ve been, Ariana’s astral-projection had snapped them back into Black Moon’s range like a rubber band returning to form.

She thanked her lucky stars that the stranger was on his way to Darkly Meadow. She was finally free from his penetrating gaze. He looked at her with ravenous hunger, yet remained tense and fiercely in control, with tight white lips she wanted to soften with a slow swipe of her tongue.

He wasn’t wrong for looking at her that way. He was a hormonal vamp male, after all.

Ariana was wrong for liking it, especially as much as she did. Her skin flushed merely thinking about the way his eyes had devoured her body.

 

Sweet Sexy Scorching Giveaway Hop

     

Lucy Does F/F Erotica like no other!

Take a look at just some of her F/F book

 

Blurb

Three hot lesbian short stories for your delectation!
While the Boys Are Away
On a camping trip with their boyfriends, best friends Amelia and Gemma are having a great time. However, when the boys have trouble lighting the barbeque, the girls decide it’s time to leave them to it and beat a hasty retreat to the shower block. Once there, they take a seriously steamy shower together and become oblivious to everything except the taste of one another.
Beside the Seaside
When Ella meets Candy outside the tattoo parlour, she’s instantly smitten. Candy is cute, confident, and what’s more, she’s recently had her tongue pierced. When Candy suggests that she and Ella should go and grab some fish and chips, Ella is more than happy to go along with the plan and spend more time with her new crush. But it soon becomes apparent that Candy has more on her mind than a good meal – and Ella’s about to get up close and personal with the newly pierced beauty.
The Inner Circle
When Adele spots her good friends Donna and Josie spending time together and being all chummy without her, she’s devastated. After seeing the two women heading into one of their houses together, she’s determined to find out exactly what’s going on. Peering through the front window of the house reveals more than Adele was betting on, and what’s more, she likes it.
While the Boys Are Away has been previously published in British Flash. Beside the Seaside was previously published in Tea and Crumpet, but has been extended. The Inner Circle was previously published in Lesbian Erotica 3.

Available from:

Amazon UK
Amazon US
All Romance eBooks
Barnes & Noble (Nook)
iBooks
Sony Reader Store
Waterstones

 

 

 

Two luscious ladies kiss and make up after a disagreement over a dildo in Show Me Yours, featured in I Kissed A Girl – A Virgin Lesbian Anthology. (Also available now, I Kissed A Girl II: More Virgin Lesbian Stories)

Excerpt:

Show Me Yours
I always felt I’d fallen on my feet with my University digs. Despite having a two-bed room, I’d never had to share. I was incredibly lucky to have all that space to myself, and I’d always made the most of it. All that changed when Celeste arrived. She’d come over from France on a placement, gaining experience of the English language for her own degree, or something.
It was up to my University to find her somewhere to stay and, ever the cheapskates, their own property was the cheapest option. Therefore, she ended up in my room. I know it’s not like I had to give up my bed or anything, but I’d gotten so used to my own space that I felt affronted having anyone share it.
When she arrived, though, it wasn’t so bad. I was expecting a language barrier and awkwardness, speaking only the most basic French myself, but she turned out to speak better English than I do!
Celeste settled in quickly and we got on famously. Just as well since we were living in such close proximity, I guess. My main problem with the situation was the lack of privacy. I’d always been able to go to the loo with the door open, or wander around in the buff if I wanted to. They were proving difficult habits to break. Not to mention masturbation. I’d taken that TOTALLY for granted. No more slipping into bed with my Rampant Rabbit for a quick session before sleep time – even if Celeste was asleep that damn noise would wake her up!
After a few frustrating wank-free weeks, I was at bursting point. As we were both always popping in and out of the dorms all day, there was no guarantee that she wouldn’t come in at any minute. Finally, I got so desperate that I decided to take the risk. Having no boyfriend at the time, it was the only way I could get any relief. I was sure she had a lecture at twelve for an hour. I was going to do it.
I skipped over to the window and closed the curtains, but not before peeking out across the courtyard to make sure Celeste wasn’t around; I had visions of her coming back to collect a forgotten book or something. It would be just my luck. The coast was clear; excellent.
I drew back from the window and cursed as my top caught the handle of the dressing table drawer. Celeste’s dressing table. I untangled myself and went to shut the drawer; until I saw what was inside.
The saucy minx had a dildo in there! One of the thick, veiny lifelike things, complete with balls. I was astounded. Here was me, desperate to masturbate and yet she was finding time to use this bad boy! Or was she? Just because it was there… after all, she was in the same predicament as me. Perhaps she used it in the shower, with the noise of the running water to drown out her cries?
I was lost in reverie – images of Celeste standing under the shower, stuffing herself with this monstrous synthetic cock – when the door opened.
Startled, I shoved the hand holding the dildo behind my back. I must have looked like a kid stuck with their hand in the cookie jar. I suppose I was, in a way. Celeste walked into the room, frowning at the dimness and flipped on the light.
“Liz? What are you doing? Why are the curtains closed?”

Available from:

Amazon UK (print)
Amazon US (print)
Amazon Kindle
RavenousRomance.com
Kobobooks.com
iTunes (iPhone App)
Sony Reader Store
Nook
All Romance eBooks

 

 

More F/F love from Lucy Felthouse you don’t want to miss out on:

 

Lucy Does F/F Erotica like no other!

Lucy will be giving away a $5.00 gift card to ARe to one winner.

      a Rafflecopter giveaway

Dirty Little Secret # 63

Dirty Little Secret # 63

<a href="http://underthecoversbookblog.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://i1106.photobucket.com/albums/h367/utcgraphics/Memes/dirty-little-secret.jpg" border="0" /></a>  

Dirty Little Secret is a weekly meme hosted by us at Under the Covers. Every Thursday we get to know other bloggers and our readers more intimately by asking them a question hoping to reveal their dirty little secrets. We hope that you will all join us!

To participate in the meme all you need to do is:

1. Be a follower of Under the Covers.
2. Create a post in your blog taking the meme image (code above) and copy instructions.
3. Answer the question we propose! This can be done in any way you like, post a video, write a post etc.
4. Then add your link below.

Non-bloggers: We want to hear from you as well!!! Let us know your answer in the comments!

We hope you join us and let us know your Dirty Little Secrets!

This week's question:

"Book abuse! What's the worst thing you've done to a book."

 

I was so excited when this book came out:

 

 

Because I LOVED the other 3 books in the series.  This ended up happening when my daughter decided to help mommy:

 

 

And I went and bought another copy the next day...lol!!  What about you?

 

The Rack: Special Addition with Eve Langlais and Her Hell Series

   

Hello and Welcome to a special addition of The Rack, coming to you live from my lowest level in the dungeon with none other than The King of all Naughtiness himself Lucifer. By the way, thank you for the latest addition to my dungeon. The way he can stretch his...err..."muscle" is truly quite amazing. As I know business is booming down there these days, I won't keep you long :) Besides my new toys arrived today and I am dying to try them out. Gaia was here last week and she mentioned your newest nefarious plot at matchmaking! Of course she also relieved me of all of my Woodland Fairies. Its a shame because they were quite happy here....oh well. So let's get crackin! I'm going to work while we talk, gotta keep these boys happy and I don't get down here as much as I would like to.


Can I get you a drink? Whip? Here try this. I just got in the latest remote controlled rack! No more cranks and levers. Its all done by a button...lol..just don't press the blue one. The demons are the only ones that can take that amount of heat without going crispy.
Lucifer: The rack. Such a beautiful piece of equipment. How far it's come. I'll admit, I'm a bit old school though. There's nothing like turning that crank myself, listening to joints pop and the screams of agony as my subjects repent their sins. Let me know if you'd like to take a turn. I do so love to play with it for fun. As for a drink, I'd better not. I'm in full detox for the upcoming golf match against my brother. Stupid rules don't allow for performance enhancing drugs. Thank Hell, Viagra's not on that list.
Ahh..but now you can have a whole level of racks, and keep torturing on schedule.  It is all about downsizing the staff...lol.

 

How are your new couples doing?
Lucifer: Very well, too well. Their damned happiness is killing my appetite. But, I could stand to use a few pounds especially since I think one of them is already breeding my next generation of demons. I hope it's a boy. I've got my eye on a crib made from recycled bars recovered from Alcatraz. Some even have the gnaw marks of prisoners desperate to escape.

Oh how delightful!! That place truly held some delightful examples of humanity.



So tell me your thoughts behind your hookups? Is it purely more productively with happier employees or is there a master plan?
Lucifer: Who cares if they're happy? This is Hell after all not some bloody vacation resort. But in answer to your other query, my newly paired demons have been more than productive, getting their tasks accomplished in half the time it used to take so they can get off work early and spend time screwing like bunnies. I've got videos if anyone wants to watch. No takers? Spoilsports.

LOL...your witch has quite a few on you...I'd be afraid of retaliation.  You do a superb job in the Macarena.



Are you going to branch out or just stick with your favorite demons? You have such a luscious stock by the way. I'm truly envious. While mine are truly yummy, I have been thinking about adding to my collection again..possible something in red
Lucifer: Whoever is unlucky enough to catch my eye is fair game. But not just any demon will do. I want the toughest, smartest, most dangerous of my minions hooking up and popping out the next generation of soldiers. I hear you might be in the market for a demon or two of your own. If I wasn't forced into monogamy by Gaia, I'd take you for a spin myself.

Agh..monogamy...truly a foul word.  How does one spend its immortality with one being?  Though I'm flattered, no thanks.  I think the last female being you said that to is still trying to unlace all her orifices that Gaia sewed up.



So who is your next victim....err future happy couple?
Lucifer: Can't say. I don't want to give the demon any warning. Suffice it to say, I'm going to kill two birds with one stone. I'm not only going to pair up two of my nastiest demons, I'm going to improve my chances in the golf tournament as well. That cup is coming home to Hell where it belongs.
Good Luck with the tourny!  Sounds like to me an angel might be involved.  They are quite beautiful when they fall , although quite difficult to hold until they....err "decide" to.  Their wings turn interesting shades of black.  I'll be expecting my compensation for your wife's spring job...Maybe something in orange or red?  You can send him with my usual shipment.

So let's take a look at the series connected with this amazing exclusive with the King Himself!!!!!!!!  

 Remy’s not ready to settle down, not when the ladies love him so much. A giving demon, why would he deny them the pleasure of his excellent technique? But his view on monogamy changes when he meets a saucy witch with a firm grasp of the word ‘No!’ Who could resist the challenge? However, before he can put his demonizing days behind him, he needs to catch the bad guys, save the witch, and find a way to convince her to love him, not kill him.

Warning: This story contains a sexy demon with corny pickup lines and a sassy witch who works for Satan. There is coarse language, hot scenes, a twisted version of Hell and a whole lot of giggles. If you possess an open mind, a good sense of humor and a tainted soul, then read at your own peril. 

I have had the pleasure of reviewing this book!!  You can read my review Here.

      

 

With a giggle and an outrageous mouth – perfect for things other than talking – Katie comes flying into Xaphan’s life, upsetting centuries of self-inflicted misery. How can he stay true to the one he lost when a bubbly psycho, with mismatched eyes, keeps consuming his thoughts – and awakening his desire?

So she was a tad bit nuts, Katie’s insanity came in handy as the Devil’s favorite problem solver. But killing’s not on the menu when a dragon goes missing, and worse, Lucifer teams her up with Hell’s grumpiest demon. His rejection of her advances only makes her more determined to seduce him. And despite her violent reputation, a part of her is oddly tempted to let him live.

 

Be sure and stop by and take a look at all of Eve's fabulous books!!!  Website

Sweet Sexy Scorching Giveaway Hop!!

 

Book Summary for Sexy Beast 9

 

The Between. A race of people between light and dark. Good and evil. Human and animal. The world discovered their existence over a decade ago, and so far the balance between humans and Between has been precarious at best. One bite is all it takes to cross the line from human to Between. It doesn’t matter what species of shapeshifter bites a human–only the soul can dictate what kind of animal is most suited to a Between. Many humans think they’re dangerous and should be locked away, while others covet their power.

On a fateful camping trip, fiery Oregon beauty Rhiannon Reid is kidnapped and turned into a “Between”–a magical shape-shifting creature. Now forced to prove her worthiness to the group’s golden king, lion-shifting Elan Delacourt, the two test each other’s strength and character–but lose themselves in the hot-blooded battle…

Book Summary for Night Shift

Max Delacourt is many things–a Between, a red wolf, a former soldier, an expert in security, and a prince. His father was the royal bastard who revealed their race to humanity and put them all in danger. His older brother Elan has been scrambling to preserve the simple human rights of their people ever since. As soon as his brother assumed the throne, Max knew what he had to do–he resigned his commission in the Marines and became the head of the King’s Guard. Elan might be working to protect the Between, but someone has to protect the king from those humans who’d like nothing more than to see their race thrown into chaos with no leader. No one would ensure Elan’s safety like Max would, so he left the military without a backward glance.

There’s nothing about his brother that Max envies, except the love of Kira Seaton. Like Max, Kira left her position with the Los Angeles Police Department to join the King’s Guard as second in command. She’s known both brothers since they were children on the Between island kingdom of San Amaro. Then, she’d been a servant’s daughter with a burning desire to prove herself. She’d been determined to keep up with both the older boys no matter what.

Years with the LAPD gave her a place where her natural curiosity and tenacity as a fox-shifter was valued, but it was never where she belonged. Elan becoming king meant he’d need help from those loyal to him, and it seemed as good a time as any to return home–this time in a position of influence that meant she had nothing left to prove to anyone.

Despite what Max thinks, she’s most definitely not in love with Elan Delacourt. No, she has the grave misfortune of loving the younger Delacourt brother. Half the time, she’s not certain if she wants to punch Max or kiss him.

 

Crystal is giving away one lucky winner both On the Prowl and Prowl the Night books in either print or pdf!!
    a Rafflecopter giveaway    

Spotlight On: Taming Talia By Marie-Nicole Ryan

Loving the Lawman, Book 2

 

Over her not-so-dearly-departed husband’s grave, newly widowed Natalia Montrose vows to shake off the memories of her abusive marriage by bedding the first suitable man she meets. Enter handsome, flirtatious Jared Fields, who offers to help her manage her assets.

Natalia has no intention of giving up control of the ranch her father traded away—along with her hand—for gold. But she intends to enjoy this stranger’s advances until all her desires are sated.

Jared is a rarity among Pinkerton agents. Well educated, the disowned black sheep of a wealthy New York City family, he enjoys the freedom afforded by his various assignments. But discovering whether the fiery Widow Montrose had her husband killed is a challenge with an unexpected twist. All he can think about is what he’ll do when he gets her in bed.

Natalia and Jared circle each other warily, feeling the pull of sensual heat. But when the Blizzard of 1889 hits, the sexual sparks may not be enough to keep them warm...or alive.

Warning: Contains a sex-starved widow and a saddled-hardened Pinkerton agent who set the sheets afire.

 

About the Author:

Marie-Nicole Ryan was born in a small western Kentucky town, but after college and marriage, she said "Good bye" to small town life. After spending three years as an army wife, she landed in Nashville, TN, where she spent many years working as an R.N. and case manager. Finally in 2002, she achieved her dream of becoming a published author.

She loves reading mysteries and writes romantic suspense, sometimes very erotic romantic suspense, one of which, TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, won a 2008 EPPIE for erotic romantic suspense. One of her early books, SEE YOU IN MY DREAMS, won the Golden Wings award from the publisher for excellence in romantic suspense. In addition, her mystery/suspense novel, ONE TOO MANY, was a 2009 EPPIE Finalist.

She's an active member of RWA, Music City Romance Writers, and PASIC. Recently she has returned to her old hometown. When she's not slaving away at her current work in progress, you might find her walking her dog Cassie, a sheltie rescue, or at the Y. But you won't ever find her in an airplane. No, not ever.

Website

Excerpt:

Sarita entered the sitting room and cleared her throat. “Someone to see you, señora.”

“I’m not seeing callers.” Natalia held back her exasperation, keeping her tone soft. There’d been enough shouting at servants while her husband was alive. She had no intention of continuing his rude manners.

“He say not social.” The housekeeper’s dark eyes sparkled with excitement. “Very nice-looking man. Dressed in black.”

Natalia wrinkled her nose. “The padre? I had enough of him at the service. Tell him I’m indisposed.”

A quick shake of the housekeeper’s head set her starched white cap to bobbing. “Most definitely not a preacher man.”

“You said ‘nice looking’?”

“Muy handsome. Sí.”

Good old Reginald had forbidden any of the house servants from using their native language, but that was only one of the many changes she planned. She smiled. After all, it was her native language too. “I’ll see him. Show him to the front parlor.” She nodded at the housekeeper. “And since he’s muy handsome, serve us some coffee.” Maybe Natalia would do more than see him.

She waited until Sarita left the room, then walked over to an ornate gold-framed looking glass and surveyed her appearance with an arched brow. Excellent. More than good enough for the man in black.

Composing her emotions, she walked down the central hall to the front parlor, where a fire had already been laid to ward off the chill of the late October evening. She found a tall, lean man, dressed in black as the housekeeper had said, standing in front of the fireplace, his back to her. “You wish to see me? Señor—”

He turned and smiled, his dark mustache quirking to one side. His square jaw was clean-shaven, and he smelled of spicy Bay Rum, denoting a very recent visit to the barber. His dark brows shot up, his pale gray eyes glittering with obvious interest. “Fields, Jared Fields, at your service.” His voice was low and possessed a cultured tone.

Madre de Dios. Sarita was right. Muy handsome indeed. Tall, lean, clean and saddle-hardened—just what a frustrated widow needed. What could he want?

“Señor Fields, how may I help you?” His accent and manner weren’t those of a Californio or a common cowboy. Maybe he was someone who’d known her husband before he came west. If so, she didn’t trust his coming here. Not now. She had too much to lose.

“I met one of your hands today. Said you needed someone for a cattle drive.”

Disappointment stabbed through her. A vaquero after all. “Then see my foreman.” The sharp retort escaped before she could call it back. Ready to sweep from the room, she picked up her skirts but was stopped short by the sound of his voice.

“Hear me out. Your hand, a Mr. Foulkes, also mentioned you were running the ranch alone.”

She halted, glancing over her shoulder at the tall stranger. “I already have a foreman.” Dios, but he was a choice specimen of manhood. He held a black Stetson in his hands, and a half grin occupied his lean, tanned face. What did he have to be amused about?

“Madam, if you would allow me to say my piece…” His dark, raven’s wing brows elevated as he awaited her answer.

She let out a small sigh and faced her visitor. “Go ahead, then.” She took a deep breath, knowing the act would cause her breasts to jut and capture his attention. If only he would stop talking.

His gaze flickered from her face. “It wasn’t my intention to hire on as one of your hands. It comes to me that you might need my advice—financial advice, that is. I’m from St. Louis and built up a successful firm which does just that. Did, I should clarify. I sold my half of the business to my partner and came westward. On my arrival in this fair—uh, city, it came to my attention that as a new widow of substantial holdings, you might have need of such advice.”

“I see.” In spite of his elegant manners, Mr. Fields was more interested in her money and land than her body. What was it with men and money? She drew up, gathering her most imperious and fiery manner. “Mr. Fields, do I appear as if I was born last night? It comes to my mind that perhaps you are a confidence man who, rather than advise me, would take advantage of what you suppose is my ignorance.”

Her handsome visitor’s eyes widened, and his back straightened. “To the contrary, it’s obvious to me, and should be to anyone, that you are an exceptional woman of perspicacity, and as such I would advise you to telegraph my former business partner in St. Louis to check my references. Perhaps doing so would convince you of my good faith.” He nodded, but still a smirk played about his mouth.

“And perhaps I don’t require your services at all.” At least not those. “I’m quite capable of managing my late husband’s holdings.”

“Madam, your late husband’s holdings lie far beyond this ranch.”

“Is that so?” Raising her chin a notch, she took a step toward him, each of her hands clenching a fistful of silk skirts. “And how do you come by your knowledge?” Who was he really? Most assuredly an opportunist, at the very least. Possibly he was someone sent by Reginald’s family.

Not that either scenario precluded her using him for her own amusement.

“The town weekly, the La Mesa Messenger, I believe it’s called, devoted several columns to his”—her visitor paused and cleared his throat—“death and history.”

Natalia’s cheeks burned. “Yes, the weekly rag was quite generous with its coverage.” As if everyone within ten miles wasn’t already aware of the humiliating details. Gossip spread faster in La Mesa than wildfire on the prairie. And yet standing so near to such a virile and handsome man had her heart fluttering. Heat suffused her cheeks. Could he tell she was so moved by his presence?

Eager to change the subject, she walked to the settee and sat. “Where are my manners? Please be seated, Mr. Fields.” She gestured to a straight-backed oak chair.

Her visitor nodded and sat across from her.

Sarita arrived with a tray and set it on the sideboard, then withdrew. Ah, her housekeeper and friend had impeccable timing. Natalia rose and walked to the sideboard, then glanced over her shoulder at her visitor. “How do you take your coffee? Or would you prefer tea?”

“Black. Coffee is fine, Mrs. Montrose.”

“I thought as much. Most men seem to prefer it that way,” she offered with a smile. After adding sugar to her coffee, she carried both cups of the steaming, fragrant brew and handed one to her visitor. She sat and sipped. The sugar cut the bite of the strong coffee Sarita made a habit of brewing.

Natalia cradled the cup in her hands, relishing the warmth. “Why are you really here, Mr. Fields? La Mesa is a small town. Surely you could find more lucrative business opportunities farther west in, say…San Francisco. Or maybe you’re chasing gold or silver? Is that it—did you journey west for adventure or to seek your fortune?”

“It’s true I’m of a mind to see San Francisco, but I also wanted to see this wide and wonderful country of ours.”

“Yes, a good bit of it used to belong to my people…and not so very long ago.”

He nodded in her direction, a smile playing across his lips. “You’ve done very well…”

“Done very well?” Her breath caught in her throat. This tall, elegant man sitting before her had no idea what Reginald had put her through. Who was he to judge?

“You have a comfortable situation here. Land, cattle, and no doubt a good deal of money to invest.”

“Ah, back again to my money.” She tamped down her irritation and averted her gaze shyly. “And here I hoped your interest might be more…personal.”

His brows shot up, but his gray gaze grew warm, and one corner of his mouth twisted upward in a grin. “Alas, I would never presume, as I am only too cognizant of your recent loss.”

Presume indeed? His very tone mocked her, even as his words were faultlessly respectful.