Saturday, March 16, 2013

Big Cocks and Shamrocks Blog Hop : Condom Conundrum

Condom Conundrum you say??  What is that?  Well the perfect post for my big cocks stop!!!!  Plus on top of the amazing giveaway attached to this wonderful guest post ($10 amazon card, print books and e-book bundles) you have the awesome Basket Full of Naughty, and of course...I'll be giving away a Naughty Box whip, blindfold, handcuffs) plus a $10 amazon card!!!  3 great giveaway and the intro to a hot and sexy erotic writer.  Take it away Marina:  
The Condom Conundrum by Marina Maddix

Offspring sling, tunnel funnel, manhole cover, hog holster, pud pod, dick dike, weenie beanie, cumbrella, rubber raincoat. There are many euphemisms for that safest of safe sex devices, the condom. Sadly, none of them are particularly sexy.

So what’s an erotic romance writer to do? On the one hand, we all want to promote safe sex, but we also want to offer our readers a fantasy world where spontaneous hook-ups with Ryan Gosling-hot billionaire bikers are possible, if not likely. It’s a conundrum that frustrates many writers.

In my erotic romance short Knight Fall*, Kelly and Rick enjoy a spur-of-the-moment assignation. The piece was heavy on sexual fantasy and light on reality, so I chose not to have them use any protection. I’ve yet to receive a complaint, but friends who write in the same genre have. Some have been knocked by one-star reviews for neglecting the condom, while others get angry emails.

As I began the novel-length sequel, Vegas Knights, I knew it would lean much more heavily toward romance than erotica (though there are plenty of hot sex scenes, so consider yourself warned!). Many romance readers, bless their hearts, seem to be heavily invested in condom use in their reads, so I felt it was important to address the birth control issue.

I spent quite some time working out a solution that not only acknowledged my characters’ previous recklessness but also illustrated something about the hero’s character. I am pleased how well it worked with the story, but it leaves me wondering how I’ll handle it for my next book.

What about you, dear reader? Is condom use in erotic fiction important to you? Would you leave a one-star review for a book you otherwise enjoyed because the author left out a mention of birth control? Let us know what you think in the comments!

*Note: While Vegas Knights is a sequel, it's not necessary to read Knight Fall (just 99 cents) first.


Vegas Knights

DESCRIPTION:
After a passionate public encounter with a mysterious and very sexy biker, big girl Kelly Saunders finds herself on the ride of her life. Her 'Knight on shining armor' -- Rick Knight, billionaire heir to a motorcycle legacy -- whisks her away from her soul-sucking corporate job to Las Vegas, where she finds the road to love is treacherous.
 As urgent business matters demand more and more of Rick's attention, Kelly is left to wonder about the future of their relationship. A ruthless betrayal throws her life into turmoil, and a devastating discovery threatens to pull them apart. Is their love just so much Vegas glitter or is it strong enough to survive beyond the dazzling lights of Sin City?

EXCERPT:
They sat entwined under the stars, swaying slightly with the rhythm of their own bodies. Rick's hands moved slowly from her hair down her back. Shivers of anticipation rippled through Kelly. They were going to make love under the stars. It had always been a fantasy of hers but she'd never imagined it would come true. But a lot of things she'd never imagined were happening lately.

Feeling the need to show him she wasn't some precious flower that needed tending and special care, that she was an independent woman, Kelly took control. His eyes never left her body as she moved to stand over him, legs spread, hands on her hips.

"Strip." The single word brought a knowing smirk to Rick's face. Without a word, and still never taking his eyes from her, he eased his off his jacket, throwing it aside. His gaze was positively smoldering as he loosened his tie and started to pull it over his head.

"Leave it." Kelly commanded on impulse. His hands paused, then dropped to the front of his charcoal Armani button-down, his eyes burning into her flesh like a brand. His fingers worked slowly, deliberately, intensifying her need for him. But she wouldn't give him the satisfaction of seeing her impatience. Cocking her hip, she let him tease her with his leisurely pace.

When the shirt was lying atop the leather jacket, he looked up expectantly, awaiting her next instruction. When she nodded toward his pants, triumph flashed across his face. She realized her mistake as he moved to stand. Once on his feet, he would tower over her, emphasizing her vulnerability and his dominance.

"On second thought, scratch that." One of his eyebrows shot up, and a look of exasperation took the place of triumph. She knew the score and she wasn't going to give him an advantage if she could help it. He leaned back on his elbows -- shirtless and irresistible -- and studied her.

She couldn't afford to make a misstep or show any hesitation. This had become less of a game for her and more of a demand for equality in this relationship. He may be rich, but that didn't mean he was in control here. Either he accepted that they were in this together, as equal partners, or he would be taught that lesson. Of course, she suspected that would be a lesson he might enjoy learning.

AUTHOR BIO:
Marina Maddix is a romantic at heart, but hates closing the bedroom door on her readers. Her stories are sweet, with just enough spice to make your mother blush. She lives with her husband and cat near the Pacific Ocean, and loves to hear from her fans. 

Connect with her by email, on Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads or her website www.MarinaMaddix.com.

Marina's part of the Insatiable Reads book tour with 15 other sizzling hot romance authors. Different authors will be featured on various blogs throughout the month of March, culminating in several excellent giveaways. Check out the tour at www.InsatiableReads.com, where you'll find a schedule of Marina's other blog stops.
Amazon  *  Nook  *  Kobo

Remaining Blog Tour Stops:

3/5 Romance Addict (Getting Romantic in Las Vegas)
3/7 Readers Guide to Epublishing (The Whys & Hows of Reviewing Books)
3/8 Belle’s Book Bag (The Benefits of Pole Dancing)
3/8 I Love Lady Porn (Book Spotlight)
3/10 Under the Covers (Character Interview with Rick Knight)
3/12 The Jeep Diva (Author Interview)
3/13 Caribbean Accent (Author Interview)
3/15 It’s All About Romance (Book Spotlight)
3/16 A Little Fiction for Every Flavour (Book Spotlight)
3/17 Close Encounters of the Night Kind (The Condom Conundrum)
3/17 Musings from an Addicted Reader (Book Spotlight)
3/18 Babbling About Books (Are Alpha Males All That?)
3/19 Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (Book Spotlight)
3/20 Heart Breaking Reviews (Book Spotlight)
3/20 My Fiction Nook (Book Spotlight)
3/21 United by Books (Is It Real or Is It Fantasy?)
3/21 Romance Junkies (Speed Dating Interview)
3/22 Way Too Hot Books (Book Spotlight)
3/22 HEA Romance with a Little Kick (Trash Talking Friends)
3/23 Dr. Pepper Diva (Book Spotlight)
3/24 Hesperia Loves Books (Guest Post)
3/24 Wicked Readings by Tawania (Book Spotlight)
3/25 Books & Tales (Book Spotlight)
3/27 The Book Tart (Guest Post)
3/28 Cocktails & Books (Author Interview)
3/29 Day Dreaming Book Reviews (Author Interview)
3/31 Beach Bum Reads (Author Interview)




SO...you have 3 rafflecopter to fill out!!!  
a Rafflecopter giveaway a Rafflecopter giveaway 
Insatiable Reads Book Tour
(1 $10 Amazon GC, 2 signed hard copies of Vegas Knights, 3 Knight Fall/Vegas Knights ebook bundles):
  a Rafflecopter giveaway
Be sure to hop on to the rest of these great blogs!!

140 comments:

Shanon (Escaping With Fiction) said...

Ha! That bit about the condoms made me chuckle! I had no idea people had issues with this!

I have never once thought about condoms while reading erotica. It honestly doesn't bother me as a reader, and I would never give a book a low rating for a failure to use a fictional condom. =P

I need to read Vegas Knights, that excerpt was hot! ;) Thanks for sharing!

Shanon (Escaping With Fiction) said...

What would I do on a 2 week Las Vegas vacation? Hmm, I would definitely check out some of the various shows they put on there, and I wouldn't mind meeting new people and just seeing where the night takes me. =)

Unknown said...

The use on condoms in an erotica has not really mattered. If they are included, hurrah to the author for thinking of it, if not, then it doesnt change my thoughts on the story and how I rate it.

laurie said...

The use on condoms in an erotica has not really mattered. If they are included, but kudos to the author if its included

and if i had a two week trip to las vegas i'd be seeing all the shows!

Unknown said...

You know I'm all about protecting yourself but if it's not mention then I don't frown about it I just use my imagination that they are protecting theirselves and go on with the book but I would NEVER leave an Author a bad review over the use or lack there of use of a condom.... When knowing at one point in our lives the passion has got the better of us and we have forgotten.... Nobody's Perfect!

Thank you for an AWESOME giveaway

angelalove@uwmail.com

Debby said...

I think condoms should be used and if mentioned I am delighted but if not I would not give them a bad review.
debby236 at gmail dot com

Unknown said...

Condom use in books doesn't really matter to me either way. Using them makes situations seem more real maybe but then they maybe get in they way.... two weeks is a really long time to be in Las Vegas. I would probably venture out of Las Vegas some during that time.

Unknown said...

I like that they use condoms in the stories, but I dont use that as part of my rating. I dont think it is a problem that they dont.

Eva @ All Books Considered said...

Would not affect my rating at all!

booksconsidered[at]gmail[dot]com

Eva @ All Books Considered said...

It's my hometown so I'd eat at all my favorite restaurants and see all my friends and family!

Anonymous said...

i could care less about birth control mentioned

Unknown said...

Thank you so much for hosting me today, Nikki. This was a fun idea to explore and I'm thrilled to find out what your readers think about it. Thanks to all of you for sharing your thoughts.

Oh, and BTW, the Insatiable Reads Rafflecopter giveaway includes a Kindle Paperwhite with all 16 IR book preloaded onto it!

Sue Sattler said...

I would never leave a bad review for an author for not using condoms in their book, but I do like when they make a point of adding it in.

Kassandra said...

I think it has it's place in books BUT I would never leave a 1 star review simply because the author chose not to use birth control methods in their writing.

Kassandra
sionedkla@gmail.com

NyX said...

That's a great question that I never thought about but it's a valid point! Alas I would never leave a 1 star review for a hot and steamy read ;). I can't imagine how people would get so hot and bothered about birth control methods in books lol its fiction!
~Steph Trujillo
(nyxofshadow@gmail.com)

Sue Sattler said...

If I had a two week vacation in Vegas, I would see all the shows that I could fit in.

Christine Merritt said...

If there is no birth control mentioned I always wonder if a pregnancy is in the works for the story - but i would NEVER give only a one star review for it.

JeanMP said...

Wouldn't give a bad review if they didn't use condoms in their book, always am pleased to see if they use them in the story.
Jean
skpetal at hotmail dot com

JeanMP said...

Two weeks in Vegas, would see a lot of shows and eat at a lot of restaurants.
Jean
skpetal at hotmail dot com

wpogrant said...

The use on condoms in an erotica has not really mattered.

wpogrant said...

if i had a two week trip to las vegas i'd be seeing all the shows!

Lisa said...

I like when the hero uses a condom, but it doesn't bother me if it's not used. I would never give a 1 star review for not using a condom. This is fiction & a review, IMO, should be based on the story.

Wolphcall(at)bellsouth(dot)net

CBarton said...

Really, people care? I am reading a book the last thing I am concerned with is a condom. Some people need to get a life.

cmucha319(at)yahoo(dot)com

Anonymous said...

I don't think condom use should be required, but there have been times where the lack of it took me out of a story (depending on the characters or behaviors). If an author manages to eroticize condom use (it can be done!), that's a big plus for me.

vitajex(at)aol(dot)com

Kaylyn D said...

Yes it does bother but I would never give a one star for that. Thanks for hosting the hop!!

Lisa said...

Since the only time I was ever in Vegas,was over 20 years ago, I would visit every place I could. It's changed a lot since then.

Wolphcall(at)bellsouth(dot)net

Carol L. said...

I never really thought about the use of condoms while I'm reading. And I certainly would give a lower rating because it wasn't mentioned.
Look forward to reading Vegas Knights.
Carol L
Lucky4750 (at) aol (dot) com

Carol L. said...

I'd take it bight by night my 2 weeks in Vegas. Hit all the shows I could and then see who I met. :)
After all, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. right ? :)
Carol L
Lucky4750 (at) aol (dot) com

Carol L. said...

Great giveaways.Please count me in for everything except the e-books because I can't read them on this computer.
Carol L
Lucky4750 (at) aol (dot) com

Unknown said...

I would never leave a 1 star review over a condom not being covered in a book; while I think it is important issue to address; I still wouldn't do that.
Thank you for the contest and the chance to win all of these great gifts!
bluebirdsub24 at gmail dot com

Unknown said...

So, sorry but I didn't include that for a 2 week Vegas vacation I would want to be pampered in the best hotel's private club; surely they would have a one; have a experienced Dom who had been vetted, take me under control, and the rest of the stay would be under his direction! Sigh!
Thank you for the contests!
bluebirdsub24 at gmail dot com

nayjf said...

I advocate condom use in film and literature when appropriate, but I would never give a story a lesser score because they didn't. I would imagine that if I thought the author was being irresponsible in their storytelling, that would come out in other ways as well.

antane

Unknown said...

I really don't think about condoms while I'm reading and I would never give a book a low reading because of it as it doesn't bother me at all.
Thanks for the giveaway.

dragonkeep62(at)gmail(dot)com

Shadow said...

It depends on the way the book is written and how the author words it. But for the most part, whether the condom is mentioned, doesnt really bother me or phase me. All i want is a good book with spiciness! :D

Unknown said...

I think about the realism of a sexual situation. If it's a random hookup, I expect a condom. If it's a committed relationship, I don't think it's necessary.

Tiss said...

YOu know? its up to the author how they write their book and if they don't wear condoms, maybe the heroine wants to get pregnant. I won't give a bad review because they didn't. I read the story, not worry about the small stuff.

Tiss said...

Didn't answer the question sorry, I would see the sights, and if I had some money, gamble alittle.

Lady Hawkeye said...

The use on condoms in an erotica has not really mattered its up to the authors how they write their book :)

Terri. said...

Doesn't bother me either way

curlyblu918 said...

Honestly does not bother me either way....

bas1chs said...

Usually I don't mind it - except sometimes it can take me out of the moment: just the details of it really - I always think, why does he just happen to have a condom (a guy, I know, but still). Or sometimes why doesn't a girl use it as part of her foreplay?
Usually I like it when it just flows with the story and not something that is like - stop the presses? he's got to cover up. LOL

Lexi said...

Ha! The condom conundrum, great post.
Doesn't bother me, I like my fiction as fiction. I don't need to be thinking of safe sex, I want the story to flow and make me feel what the characters are feeling. Sometimes it plays into the story line, and that is fine. But I will never read a hot scene and think, now that was irresponsible of them.

Di said...

I'd see a lot of the shows in Vegas!

Michelle Brack said...

To me that's so hilarious that people even think about that! If you are reading erotic fiction, protection is the LAST thing on my mind!:)

Kerry said...

Birth control is not going to affect my review - I would prefer to see it, but lets be honest - that might be IRL, but my fantasy would definitely ignore it :)

Unknown said...

Really don't care though I don't know if I can explain it or not... Sometimes it,lol, "fits" sometimes it doesn't into a story. So it really depends on the story line.

Vegas...visit everything I can while I am there with my hubby and try to see some family that is close by.

Pommawolf Emeraldwolfeyes said...

It always amazes me how small minded people are when they are reading "fiction".
It doesn't bother me in the least whether a condom is used in a scene of erotica.
I want a good book to pull me into a connection with the MC's. I am an emotional reader who simply wants to enjoy the moment of the connections between the MC's. If the reader can't separate fiction from reality then it's the reader with the problem. If a reader rates a review poorly due to the lack of condom, then its the reader whose done an injustice to the author and the book.
Keep doing what your doing cause I've added your books to my gotta have list because I can't wait to read them after sampling the excerpts.....lol
Thank you for the giveaway!
Wishing you continued success, and all the best!

Darcy
pommawolf @hotmail.com

books4me said...

As long as there is an explanation why the woman doesn't get pregnant, I don't care but it should be explained or discussed somewhere. I will NOT give someone a low reading score just for that ONE thing, though. I would mention it in my review.
~Barrie

Nay Nay said...

While it’s nice to see birth control evident in some erotic romances it makes no difference to me at all. As long as the story is a good one, I don’t care if condoms/birth control is mentioned or not. If I like the story, I will give it 3 or 4 or 5 stars. Thanks for being part of the hop and for the chance to win. <^_^>
reneebennett35 (at) yahoo (dot) com

(\__ /)
(='.'=)
(")_(")

Nay Nay said...

Swim, take in a show, have a fabulous dinner and of course gamble a little. LOL
Thanks for being part of the hop and for the chance to win. <^_^>
reneebennett35 (at) yahoo (dot) com

(\__ /)
(='.'=)
(")_(")

JoAnna said...

Ok, I would not leave a 1-star review because condoms were not used. I do think it is important for characters to have some responsibility when it comes to safe sex.

Two-week vacation in Vegas. Lot's of shows, hanging at the pool but not too much gambling.

nancy said...

I prefer my characters to use a weenie wrapper. As to 2 weeks in Vegas, well I would certainly eat well as the restaurants are wonderful.

Unknown said...

I never thought about condoms while reading. It would have no effect on any book I read. Thanks for the giveaway. Tore923@aol.com

carolann88fan said...

Wow you know what they say What Happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. I would also never give a bad review over that lol

VampedChik said...

Honestly it doesnt really matter all that much. Once im into a story I may not notice those little details.
-Amber
goodblinknpark(AT)yahoo(DOT)com

vadeluna07 said...

I never knew this was an actual issue! I honestly couldn't care less if the main characters use protection or not. I understand that promoting safe sex is important, but seriously! It's a book! Books are meant to be enjoyed and let us live our deepest fantasies through the characters, not make us worry about the consequences of not having safe sex. So use a condom, don't use a condom, I couldn't care less as long as the story is good. I would never give a bad review just because the author didn't mention the characters using protection.

Holly Letson said...

No, that would not cause me to leave a low-ball review. It's not really that big a factor.

angela0040 said...

meh, it really doesn't make a difference to me if they say anything about it or not

Eva's Flowers said...

I'll think about it when the scene is being played out, are they being responsible, did they think about it at all...lost in lust so to speak...but it would not make me think any less of the author, if the scene was well written, that's what I care about.

Eva
evitap67(at)gmail(dot)com

Betty Hamilton said...

I do like to see the hero practicing safe sex..... and LOTS of it!! ;o)

lisagkendall said...

Even though I might be disappointed in the choice, depends on the situation, I would not let it sway my review. Thanks for the post and the contests. lisagk (at) yahoo (dot)com

Mary Preston said...

If no condom is actually mentioned, I'm happy to assume.

mcv said...

I wouldn't let lack of condom use influence my reviews, but I'm always happy when there is safe sex in the novels I read.

Shan said...

I tend to notice rather condoms are used only if the author doesn't acknowledge that there were no condoms used. If condoms are not used there should be a moment that the characters either think about or talk about the consequences. ie. wondering if the female could be pregnant, talking about rather both are clean, etc...

However, the lack of anything mentioned above will not entirely color my judgement. As as the writing and story are good I would still give it a review that I felt it deserved as a whole.

sam1slim1@gmail.com


Happily Ever After One Book at a Time said...

Wow! I can't imagine giving a bad review over whether a condom is used. I don't mind when they are used, better safe than sorry, but where would all those unexpected baby books be if everyone used them? LOL. I just assume they are used unless it is specifically mentioned.

Sayomay said...

I would give it a lower rating just be a condom wasnt used. But do like the mentioning of it! I realized a while ago that if I read romance w/ the condom being used it tend to use a condom more (I only have one partner) and if I read stuff that doesnt I tend to not. So for me, I prefer the mentioning of it!

wyndwhisper said...

ii hadn't thought about it before but yes it is important and i would give it a lower rating. probably not a 1 but less than a 4 or maybe even a 3 depending on the rest of the book.

thank you for the chance at such great giveaways.

tammy ramey
trvlagnt1t@yahoo.com

SheriV said...

That's crazy about the whole condom thing. :)


smurfettev AT gmail DOT com

wyndwhisper said...

thanks for the great excerpt and the contests. i look forward to reading the book but i doubt i would take a trip to Las Vegas anytime soon. I use to live there and i got my fill of "sin city".
if i had 2 weeks for a vacation i would probably spend it in some of the map kind of place like a small cottage in the scottish highlands,taking the train across Siberia(it's a tour you can do) or the one i look forward to the most:going to the part of Romania that use to be Transylvania and going to the Dracula theme park.(sounds fun huh!) LOL!

thanks again and sorry for the ramble.
tammy ramey
trvlagnt1t@yahoo.com

JessS said...

Hmm, it's not super important to me, and I definitely wouldn't leave a 1 star review if there was no mention of safety and all. But I do like it when the author includes it, because it makes the story more realistic, and safety is important.

Anonymous said...

I think condom use in a book is important, it helps to keep up the idea to younger readers that safe sex is the way to go. I probably wouldn't give a book a 1 star just because of that though.

lavendersbluegreen said...

I actually enjoy each sex or love making scene in context. Life is life and not everyone uses protection every time even if we want them to. Why would characters in books be any different? Of course I would not necessarily leave a 1 star review for that reason alone. However if the context left me feeling dirty (not in a good way) it would definitely make me go lower in my review... so what else do I like or not like in the book? What is the context? One story I loooooved a few years ago had a couple using a condom... and the male was a former demon; he overflowed the condom.... needless to say there was a happily ever after....

Beckey said...

I do like to see that the practice of safe sex, use of protection is written in stories. As to give one star reviews because of the lack that would be redicoulous, I would simply note in my review...

Unknown said...

No I would not leave a 1 star over it but I do think it is a great way to get the word out about safe sex

Anne said...

I don't really pay attention to condom use in books, but they really should be included unless the characters discuss/mention being tested. Always best to promote current health standards.

Anne said...

Two week Vegas vacation? I spend more time just checking out the various casinos, trying lots of restauarnts and I'd probably also get out to Red Rocks.

Shane R. said...

Sometimes I find mention of a condom clumsy in erotic fiction. I often read erotic fiction to escape "real life" issues such as safe sex and all that so it's not necessary in a fantasy world.

Shane R. said...

If I were in Vegas for two weeks, I'd do a lot of drinking and gambling. Maybe take in some live entertainment. I'd pretty much live on the Strip.

Filia Oktarina said...

I never though that, i just read all along.

Emily said...

It's not something I've ever thought about while reading, unless it was mentioned in the story. I think it is silly to be upset by something like that being left out. We're all adults, it's not like this is what kids are reading and getting their sex education from.

Hai-Yen said...

I wouldn't give a one-star review because of lack of condom use but it's a detail that I would notice while reading. That would give me indication of the type of person (hero/heroine) that would overlook that important detail. Thank you for this giveaway!

Hai-Yen said...

If I had a 2-week vacation in Vegas, I would definitely visit all the main attractions and make the best out of my time there! :)

Mary Kirkland said...

People actually have a problem with the mention of a condom?I really don't have a problem with it at all.

I live in Vegas so any book mentioned or set here is great for me, love it.

miztik_rose@yahoo.com

Unknown said...

I'm not put off either way with condom use.

As for Vegas - I'm not much of a gambler. I'd soak up the sun and see all the shows.

kesummer69(At)Gmail(dot)com

Unknown said...

It doesn't bother me one way or the other. I can only imagine how difficult it is to write putting one on into a story is.

As for Vegas..I love Vegas. We went there for our 10th anniversary and are so ready to go back. I love going to Ellis Island.

Mel
bournmelissa at hotmail dot com

veRONIca said...

I do like reading about there being some kind of protection, but if an author chooses to not include any I'm not going to hate or rate the book lower just because of that. Obviously you are reading fiction, don't get so hung up on the details people

Jillyn said...

It doesn't matter to me, why would it? I"m not the girl in the story, and I can't get pregnant via text.

Thanks for the giveaway.

Ellen Thompson said...

The use or lack of use of a condom does not effect my opinion about a book either way. It is probably a good idea to include it but it is not anything that really bothers me. Thanks for the awesome giveaway and excerpt!
thompsonem3 at aol dot com

Ellen Thompson said...

If I had a 2 week trip to Vegas I would see all of the shows and try to make sure I did everything there is to do in the area. I have never been to Las Vegas and I am not sure that I would make a second trip so I would need to make the most of it. Thanks for the giveaway!
thompsonem3 at aol dot com

Ellen Thompson said...

The use or lack of use of a condom does not effect my opinion about a book either way. It is probably a good idea to include it but it is not anything that really bothers me. Thanks for the awesome giveaway and excerpt!
thompsonem3 at aol dot com

Unknown said...

When I'm reading a book, I could care less about the formalities of safety. It does take away from the story in my opinion and when birth control is mentioned it doesn't bother me either. As long as the book is good and the love scenes are hot then it doesn't matter.
uilani25(at)hotmail(dot)com

Booklover Sue said...

I don't care one way or another! I know in my mind that this is fiction and not real life and I am just enjoying the story!

susanmplatt AT hotmail DOT com

Kirsten! said...

I like when they're included, but it wouldn't lower my opinion of a book if they weren't.

Unknown said...

My editors ask about condoms sometimes. If I think my characters would use them, I include them. Unfortunately, I don't know that they always think smart.

Mer said...

I'm a big fan of safe sex (and think condom use can be included in the story without sounding preachy or taking away from the moment), but I also like realism--there are characters who wouldn't use use them.

Anonymous said...

Wow that was hot. My upcoming release includes condom use and they have addresed unwanted pregnancy and sexually trnasmitted diseases. I can take or leave it as a reader though.

Unknown said...

I read for enjoyment so it doesn't affect my opinion either way as long as the story is good!!

josiehink122026(at)gmail(dot)com

Ashley Applebee said...

I have to admit I have never heard a condom called those things before!! lmao!! I couldn't careless about condom use in a book! It's a BOOK! It's not reality!!! In the real world, yes we all have to use protection but in the fiction world we don't. I would never give a book a lower review because there was no condom use mentioned. So yeah I really don't care personally. To me a book is like a dream and there aren't any STDs or pregnancy scares in dreams. Your book sounds awesome and thanks for the great giveaway!!
Ashley A
ash_app(at)hotmail(dot)com

crystalguidroz1 said...

No, it does not affect me whatsoever. Really I could care less if they do or don't and never really put much thought in it before now. Some books I read mention them and some don't and the ones that usually do is because there is some important reason why they need protection or it goes to support that characters faith, belief, or values.

Crystal Guidroz
cguidroz2@cox.net

Unknown said...

It doesn't bother me either way... If there is an interesting way the condom is put on via mouth whatever cool... If there is more than one partner then yes write about condom use, main characters not using condoms ok thats fine.. 4+ not using condoms yeah that gets questionable.

magic5905 said...

Nope, its a book so I don't care if the author remembers to write that they wear a condom or not.

Unknown said...

When I am reading a book I am not going to think bad of the author or write a bad review if they don't address condoms, pills, shots, implants or any other type of birth control. I believe unless this plays into the book at a later time then it isn't a bit deal. This sounds like an interesting book and I will add it to my tbr list.

Stacey said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Stacey said...

I don't think about condoms and such in erotica unless one of the characters mentions it before hand or in thought that it is important to them, then I will want to know that it's used or discussed.

As for 2 weeks in Vegas...well since I live here, it's just another day ;)

Thanks for sharing

Vanessa N. said...

It doesn't bother me as long as the story flows. Thanks for the chance.

mythic021@gmail.com

Froggy said...

it doesn't bother me either, its just a story

Unknown said...

The use on condoms in an erotica has not really mattered. as long the story is good, i will enjoy.
thank you :)

sunshine_pinkystar(at)yahoo(dot)com

Lona said...

It does not matter to me about the condom use, I have no issues either way.

Vegas, I would love to do some gambling, and to see some shows.

Thx for the great give away.

blinkysthebest at aol dot com

RILEKAT said...

Condom use in a one night stand or first encounter or swinging situation would be fine. Committed relationship don't need them

Vegas, I would love to go with my husband and see the shows and the scenery.
rilekat2 at gmail dot com

Jennifer Mathis said...

i dont think i would leave a bad review for lack of condom use I mean we are talking fiction here so maybe the book is set in the land of no stds or unwanted pregnancies

meandi09@yahoo.com

Alina P said...

When the characters don't use it, blatantly, it gets me so crazy that I usually decrease the rating 1 or 2* :D
alinutza4u2004[at]yahoo[dot]co[dot]uk

jessiel said...

The use of condoms depends on a few factors for me....
Is it a form of birth control?
Do they have multiple partners?
Is there relationship in the beginning stages?
Sometimes the act of putting it on is in itself hot

JessieL62(at)comcast(dot)net

Unknown said...

If the book is interesting & well-written such a detail wouldn't catch my attention. I'd be too much "into-the-book" state to pay attention.

Thanks,
Adila (from Azerbaijan)

Dovile said...

I don't particularly care either way, unless it's distracting from the action.

Dustykatt said...

I don't find it at all important. I understand that they are fictional. You do raise a good point about how to write that in without disrupting the scene. It's not easy to make condom use sexy. It would never make a difference to my review.

Dustykatt said...

A two-week Las Vegas vacation? I would make a point of finding out all the cool places that the tourists don't go. You know? Spots where the people that live and work there go to get away from all the outsiders.

Cassandra said...

I don't care one way or the other if the author uses birth control in books. If I enjoyed the book then who cares?
All I can say is what happens in Vegas better stay in Vegas if I'm there for two weeks haha
Thanks for the awesome giveaways!

Booklover1335 said...

I don't mind if birth control is not used when in the heat of the moment, but I do like it when it is addressed by the characters at some point in the book. Either by discussing it before or after and the consequences (if there are any) but I certainly wouldn't leave a one star review if it wasn't addressed. That kind of thing doesn't make the story "less" IMO.

Unknown said...

I think that the use of comdomes are redundant in a book about people that dont exist, and if someing comes out of the encounter so be it.

Meghan said...

Honestly, it's not THAT important to me. Reading a book like these are all about being in a fantasy world an d in my fantasy world, condoms are not essential.

mestith at gmail dot com

Unknown said...

I I was on a two week vacation in Las vagas I would play a bit of cards and take in the sites with my girlfriend.

Tabathia B said...

Nope it doesn't matter but I prefer it if the characters are sluts

Chrystina said...

It doesn't bother me either way. It's fiction, so a character not using a condom isn't that big of a deal for me. Great excerpt by the way :)
bookliaison(AT)yahoo(DOT)com

Mimi Smith said...

I'd have lots of fun and gamble :)

Tina B said...

Great post and excerpt!
I have to say that although it is very important in real life, I am aware that I am reading fiction, therefore, I don't mind if they are or are not used. Sometimes it is a mood killer. Lol.
I think it really depends on how the author writes it into the book.
Also, I my favorites are PNR and most of the time, the characters can't contract diseases or get a "human" pregnant, so the condoms are irrelevant.
Thank you for the wonderful giveaway~!

Catherine Lee said...

I never heard those euphemisms for condoms! This is fiction! If condoms don't fit easily or naturally into the moment or scene...leave them out. I would not ding a book for that. NOW, if you're talking an m/m book where the guys have been players, that might be different.
catherinelee100 at gmail dot com

SdyLion said...

I do not care if they use birth control or not- it does not affect my opinion of the book either way. sdylion(at)gmail(dot)com

Unknown said...

i hadn't really thought of it before. but yeah, i like the detail about birth control a lot more. i have read books with both and it just seems like an obvious conversation. but i don't think i would rate a book lower if there wasn't mention of condoms or BC in it. it isn't a deal breaker for me.
pepperpenn42 at gmail dot com

June M. said...

It really doesn't matter to me. After all, these are fiction stories so the characters are not real. The use of condoms in romances can add some funny moments though, lol. The use of or lack of condoms in books though do not affect my feelings for books.
June
manning_J2004 at yahoo dot com

June M. said...

I am not sure what I would do for two weeks in Vegas. I guess see some shows, check out various casinos, other nearby landmarks, etc. But since I have problems with crowds, I don't see it happening anytime soon.

-mer- said...

What would I do for 2 weeks in Las Vegas. I would see Cirque du Soleil shows. Play the slots, have some good food, and check out some sites.

Krysykat said...

I like it when they use it and when they don't.
I think if I had two weeks in Vegas I'd be a really sore ;)

Krysta B.

Sherry said...

I really don't care if they use condoms in erotic fiction. I would never give a poor review for a book if they didn't either.

Jolene and Family said...

It doesn't really bother me, but I do take notice when the character does and think it's very responsible of the author to put it in there. There have been some instances where a character doesn't put one on and then doesn't pull out. It's a tiny bit of a disappointment but doesn't really take away from the story itself

Unknown said...

It really doesn't bother me one way or the other....if the story's good, it doesn't matter!

Thanks for the amazing giveaway!
elizabeth @ bookattict . com

Unknown said...

It doesn't matter to me. I would never give a book a bad rating based on birth control. If the book is good, birth control is the last thing I would think about.
I would love to go to Las Vegas. Just to get away from this cold and snow.
lauratroxelatyahoodotcom

Unknown said...

It doesn't matter to me. I would never give a book a bad rating based on birth control. If the book is good, birth control is the last thing I would think about.
I would love to go to Las Vegas. Just to get away from this cold and snow.
lauratroxelatyahoodotcom

jessiel said...

I would like to thank you for your efforts in putting together such a fun hop.

JessieL62(at)comcast(dot)net

Unknown said...

I work in STD/HIV Prevention, so I truly understand the importance of using condoms for more than just birth control. But when reading erotica, it doesn't seem to make much difference to me whether a barrier method of protection is used or not, and I wouldn't rate it lower if condoms were not used. Weird, isn't it?.

Thank you for participating in this blog hop.

karen(dot)arrowood(at)sbcglobal(net)

Kaci Verdun said...

I wouldn't care and would not change my rating!

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