Book Junkie: August 2011

Interview with Author Kaily Hart............

Today I would like to welcome author Kaily Hart to Book Junkie. She is here to celebrate her latest release, POINT BLANK from Ellora's Cave! Please give Kaily a warm welcome and enjoy the interview............

1. If someone were writing a story about Kaily Hart, what would your blurb say?

Kaily Hart, a seemingly straight-laced mother of four left corporate America and a high-powered, lucrative career to be a stay at home mom. Ha! That lasted about four weeks, during which time she realized she had a deeply repressed dream - to write. And romance at that! By day, Kaily plays conservative wife and soccer mom, but at night crafts hot and steamy tales of romance and love with gorgeous heroes who wouldn’t dream of leaving the toilet set up. Ever. She’s smart and sassy, at least in her own mind, and is trying her best to bring the alpha male solidly back to contemporary romance, one hot story at a time. Three years ago she never would have thought she’d be doing this, but now that she is? Well, you couldn’t pay her enough to do anything else.

2. Can you tell us a little about your newest release POINT BLANK that isn't in the blurb?
It’s about secret yearnings and ‘what ifs’. I think everyone has things in their past that they often think about, that they often wonder if they’d done something different what would have happened, what they’d do if they had a second chance. That’s the core of POINT BLANK. These characters both have an opportunity to make different conscious decisions. It’s fun to write about scenarios that skirt the edge of the possible.

3. What was your inspiration behind the creation of POINT BLANK ?

I’ve always wanted to write a long-ago, secret crush book. I mean, who hasn’t had one of those? I was supposed to be finishing another book when this (then unnamed) hero (of the future book, POINT BLANK) started talking to me. I did what I always do when this happens. I jotted down the details and got back on with the book at hand. Except this time, he wouldn’t quiet down. He was persistent, unrelenting and Rex ended up getting his story written way earlier than I’d intended to write it. Squeaky wheel and all that. Sound crazy? Such is the life of a writer J!

4. What was your favorite scene to write in POINT BLANK ?
One of the scenes in any book I like to write is often the time the hero and heroine really get together for the first time. It’s such a great opportunity for character development and for furthering their relationship. It could go smoothly. Or not so much! In POINT BLANK, the heroine hasn’t exactly had great sex in the past. Let’s just say she’s got some hang-ups. The hero quickly addresses and then negates them and it was a really fun scene to write!

5. What accent is sure to make you swoon?
I may be in the minority here, but particular accents don’t really do it for me. Perhaps it’s because I live in a country where I’m the one with the accent J?? I think it all depends on the source.

6. What was the most challenging thing you’ve done in the name of research that might have been out of your comfort zone?

Mmmm. The majority of my research is really done on the internet. I cringe to think what I would have done years ago without access to that huge amount of data. And the ability to stay anonymous. Mostly. Whenever I do a search on some weird, ‘out there’ topic I always wonder if I come up on some screen somewhere as a ‘warning’ LOL. Can you imagine? “Seriously, I’m an author! It’s research!” You’d back me up, right?

7. Please share with us something that readers would be surprised to learn about you.
One of the things for me that still hasn’t lost its novelty factor is that I have identical twins. They’re just so fascinating to me. I have my own little research project at home. Some things in terms of how close they are I expected, but others? They’re a constant source of entertainment. I’m determined to write a twin story one day with some unique spin to it.

Oh and I get emotional every time a reader reaches out to me if they liked one of my stories. Every. Single. Time. That will never get old.

8. How can the readers stay in touch with you online?
Gosh, I’m pretty much all over. I’m constantly on Facebook and Twitter and blog regularly on my own blog as well as a group blog. I’d love it if anyone wanted to reach out to me (but don’t make me cry, ‘K?). My social networking real estate is:

Web – http://www.kailyhart.com/
Blog - http://kailyhart.blogspot.com/
Group Blog - http://passionatereads.com/
Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/kaily.hart
Twitter - http://twitter.com/kailyhart

9. Favorites List… fill in the blank

1. Favorite City – I’ve been fortunate in that I’ve traveled quite a bit and lived in some of the most exciting cities in the world. To pick a favorite would be like trying to choose which child I liked best LOL. One city I do love and lived in on two separate occasions, is San Diego. It has so much to offer and I love to go back and visit whenever I get the chance!

2. Favorite Romance book of all time (your go to book you can read over and over again) –

It’s incredibly difficult to just list one, but the one that came to mind first was Dance with the Devil by Sherrilyn Kenyon. I just love me a tortured hero, especially one who has lost all hope of redemption in everyone’s eyes, except the heroine. This is one of the few books I have re-read more than once.

3. Favorite type of hero –

Okay, that’s easy. I’m firmly on the side of the alpha hero. One who is very much a ‘guy’, who is tough, perhaps a little rough around the edges, but who has an inner core of integrity and an unwavering devotion to the woman who finally breaks through the brash exterior. Sigh… That’s the kind of hero I live to write.

4. Favorite Quote –
I love to see new quotes all the time, especially current ones, and probably really couldn’t pick a favorite. One that resonated recently was one about success and writing – “Each journey is our own, and we're all the better for it. Rather than wishing for lightning to strike quickly, it's better to enjoy seeing it flash in the distance and know that our time will come." – Nathan Bransford. I literally get a shiver each time I read that.

10. If you could ask readers any one question, what would it be?

Writing is about trying to find that balance between what you like and what will entertain and move someone else, the reader. I guess if I could ask it would be simply ‘what do you like about my stories’?

ENDEARMENTS IN ROMANCE

When I’m building characters for my books I always think about their interactions first and foremost. Once names have been established, this thought process inevitably comes around to what the hero & heroine call each other. I take into account the personalities I’ve built for these characters, their backgrounds and history, the nature of their relationship and the stage it’s at. I want to make it as realistic as possible, but it has to be consistent, believable, something the reader will relate to. Will there be shortened names, nicknames, pet names, endearments? Perhaps there’s something one of them calls the other that’s not very complimentary? In a book I just finished writing, the heroine calls the hero ‘Mr. Hot Bod’ and it’s not meant to be a compliment. At first anyway J, but it fits the more ‘in your face’ character of the heroine. In my book, PAY UP, the hero has a shortened name for the heroine that only he uses. They’re friends and it’s developed over time so it works. It’s really it’s own form of endearment. I’ve also written books where there’s nothing and that fit the characters and the story as well.

This planning aspect can be a lot of fun. As with most things in writing, there’s often an element of reality from the writer’s life and I use a lot of what I see, hear and experience as inspiration. It usually never translates literally, but often there’s a seed of realism from somewhere there. So when coming up with endearments? Well, I eavesdrop a lot LOL! A LOT. Of course, there’s a great deal I hear that I would NEVER use in a book. You won’t ever find a hero of mine using ‘snookems’ for instance. ‘Love muffin’ either. I think a lot about reader reaction in picking these types of things and how it reflects on the character, so I thought I’d throw it out there today and ask YOU. I’m always looking for new ideas!

So…what names have you been called? What endearment is your favorite, something you’ve heard or even something you’ve read in a book?

About Kaily:

Kaily Hart, a seemingly straight-laced mother of four left corporate America and a high-powered, lucrative career to be a stay at home mom. Ha! That lasted about four weeks, during which time she realized she had a deeply repressed dream —to write. And romance at that! By day, Kaily plays conservative wife and soccer mom, but at night crafts hot and steamy tales of romance and love with gorgeous heroes who wouldn’t dream of leaving the toilet set up. Ever. She’s smart and sassy, at least in her own mind, and is trying her best to bring the alpha male solidly back to contemporary romance, one hot story at a time. Two years ago she never would have thought she’d be doing this, but now that she is? Well, you couldn’t pay her enough to do anything else.

Kaily’s books, PICTURE THIS, PAY UP, PLAY ME & POINT BLANK (yes, she has a thing for book titles that start with ‘P’), are all currently available from Ellora’s Cave and other ebook outlets.

If anyone would want to contact me (which I would love by the way) or just keep up with what I’m doing, you can find me all over:

Web – www.kailyhart.com

Blog - http://kailyhart.blogspot.com/

Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/kaily.hart

Twitter - http://twitter.com/kailyhart

DON'T MESS WITH TEXAS by Christie Craig

Oh la la! Have I got a great series for you to read. Well, actually it is Christie Craig's DON'T MESS WITH TEXAS which will be avail from Grand Central Publishing Aug 23rd! And I say it is a definite can't miss. Why, a little mystery, revenge, ex husbands dead in your trunk, sexy PI's who come to a girls rescue. Even though she does puke on him twice.

Broke and a little battered from a rough ending of her marriage Nikki is contemplating meeting up with him again.... OK it actually makes it sick to her stomach but she helps support the only person who has ever shown her love, her Grandma. But knowing in her heart of hearts that she could never go back to the jerk who cheated on her... in her own office... with her own assistant.

But now he is dead, dead, dead in her trunk, she finds herself the prime #1 suspect, and she pukes twice on the sexy cowboy who is an ex cop, ex ex-con, now PI. Did you get all that??

Don't worry you will. With just the right about of wit, downright laugh out loud humor from not just Nikki and Dallas but from the whole cast of supporting characters you will not only be utterly charmed by them all, you will find yourself sucked into the mystery of who killed the cheating husband!

Nikki's heart is so vulnerable, but Dallas is one hell of a man. Just the right amount of Alpha, humor and sensitivity that will truly melt your heart. He has had his own heartbreaks and rough times, but he knows Nikki is innocent, he believes in her 100% and is all too familiar with everyone thinking you are guilty as sin and more than ready to lock away the key.

I adored their romance, it immediate attraction, but both were cautious and knew the score. This was just for the moment, right? Not a forever kind of love. At least that is what they thought. It is all about the journey and this one will fill your heart with laughter all the way until the end. Anxious for the next installment I might just have to read this one again!!!

Nikki Hunt thought her night couldn't get worse when her no-good, cheating ex ditched her at dinner, sticking her with the bill. Then she found his body stuffed in the trunk of her car and lost her two-hundred-dollar meal all over his three-thousand-dollar suit. Now not only is Nikki nearly broke, she's a murder suspect.

Former cop turned PI, Dallas O'Connor knows what it's like to be unjustly accused. But one look at the sexy-though skittish-suspect tells him she couldn't hurt anyone. The lead detective, Dallas's own brother, has the wrong woman and Dallas hopes a little late-night "undercover" work will help him prove it . . .

I LOVED YOU FIRST by Reena Jacobs Blog Tour

Today I am thrilled to be apart of Reena Jacobs blog tour for her latest release I LOVED YOU FIRST. This is a heartbreaking fantastic story of friendship and such a deep love that is almost breaks two people to the core. Alex and Seth are both deeply passionate characters who are trying to find their way. Alex is so in love with her best friends who by the way dates other women to keep hidden the fact that he is gay.

A journey, sometimes a painful one it has become beyond necessary that Alex and Seth give their relationship or friendship a much needed breather. It is harsh for Alex when she has to terms that Seth is gay, no exceptions to that fact. He only dated all those woman to keep up appearances and wasn't ready to come out of the closet.

Rich in emotion and such a stunningly real character driven story, Jacobs delivers everything the readers are looking for and more!!!

Alexandria (Alex) Carmichael guards two secrets close to her heart. One—she’s in love with her best friend, Seth. Two—he’s gay.

As a freshman in college, Alex looks forward to fun times with her best friend. When Seth decides cycling through girlfriends is the way to fit in with the straight crowd, Alex must make a choice: watch Seth give his affections to another while her heart breaks or come clean with her feelings and risk losing his friendship forever.

I Loved You First is a new adult love story told through the eyes of an African-American/Caucasian student who takes a journey of self-discovery while watching her best friend come to terms with his sexuality. Turn the pages and find a message of hope, new beginnings, and positive change.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Reena Jacobs is just your typical writer who loves to see her words in print. As an avid reader, she’s known to hoard books and begs her husband regularly for “just one more purchase.” Her home life is filled with days chasing her preschooler and nights harassing her husband. Between it all, she squeezes in time for writing and growling at the dog. You can find Reena on Ramblings of an Amateur Writer, Amazon, Goodreads, Barnes amp; Nobles, and Smashwords.

Reena Jacobs - Author of Lots of Words

http://www.reenajacobs.com/

www.reenajacobs.com/blog

http://twitter.com/ReenaJacobs

***GIVEAWAY***

Reena is having two giveaways:

What's up for grabs? One of two signed copies of I Loved You First. The other one will be part of the blog tour itself. Everyone is eligible for these two giveaways.

***This is an international giveaway***

As long as US people aren't restricted from mailing to your country, you may win a copy, so don't be shy.

I Loved You First S.W.A.G. Pack giveaways

For the giveaways, she's doing S.W.A.G. packs. The giveaways are international to anyplace the USPS delivers first-class mail. If any readers are unsure, they can refer to this list: http://pe.usps.com/text/imm/immpg.htm

Leave a comment, then head over to Reena's blog for a chance to win a signed copy of I Loved You First.

Giveaway ends Sept 01!!!!

leave a comment, then head over to Reena's blog for a chance to win a signed copy of
I Loved You First.
follow the tour stops HERE
*courtesy of aobibliophileTM

Guest Author and Giveaway with Shelley Munro......

Today I would like to give a warm welcome to one of my favorite authors, Shelley Monro!! Her latest release, a gay paranormal romance called LONE WOLF from Samhain Publishing is set to release on Tuesday, Aug 23rd!!! If you have ever read any of Shelley's books then you know you are in for a very sexy and always addictive and if you haven't you are in for a really special treat!! So please give Shelley a warm welcome, enjoy the interview and don't forget to enter the contest!!

1. If someone were writing a story about Shelley Munro what would your blurb say?
Thanks so much for having me to visit today. My blurb would read, “The girl who lives Downunder in New Zealand. She likes to laugh and travel and writes lots of spicy tales featuring love, laughter and adventure.”

2. Can you tell us a little about your newest release Lone Wolf that isn’t in the blurb?
Corey, the young hero in Lone Wolf has a love of black clothes and makeup. He dyes his hair black. He wears black eyeliner and lipstick and black nail polish on his fingers and toes. He’s most distressed when he learns that shifting to werewolf keeps messing with his nail polish!

3. What was your inspiration behind the creation of Lone Wolf?
A combination of things contributed to me writing Lone Wolf. One of the animals I really wanted to see when we visited Yellowstone National Park was a wolf. It’s actually very difficult to spot a wolf during the summer months. It’s much easier to sight one during the winter when the snow is on the ground. Although I didn’t see one, we woke up in the morning and heard them calling. Their howls were eerie yet very beautiful. I’d wanted to write a werewolf story for a while but couldn’t think of a plot that worked for me. Visiting Yellowstone started me thinking. I decided I could hide werewolves in plain sight at Yellowstone because of the natural wolf population. Maybe that would work for a setting. And lastly, for some reason, I suddenly wondered one day what would happen to the nail polish worn by a werewolf/feline shifter during a shift. The elements all tied together in my mind and Lone Wolf is the result.

4. What was your favorite scene to write in Lone Wolf?
My favorite scenes are the ones were the young students change to their werewolf forms and experience the wild for the first time. Toward the end of the book, there’s a scene where the students have to make a kill. I can’t say much because I’ll give the plot away but, Corey and his best friend make a kill each. The circumstances they find themselves in mean they give up their kills. They tell the truth about what happens but no one believes them. There’s humor in the scene, which is another reason why I like it so much.

5. Are there any other genres you want to tackle?
LOL – I’ve tried writing most of them already. Besides writing gay and paranormal romances, I’ve tried my hand at contemporary, historical, futuristic and sci-fi. I’ve written quite a few books now, and I think any lover of romance should find something to their taste in my backlist. Check out my books at my website. I have books divided into genres and there’s also a theme page where you can check which of my books fit your favorite themes.

6. If you could trade places with one of your characters, would you want to and who?
You know, I’m quite happy acting as director most of the time. I’m quite mean to some of my characters, and if I jumped into a book, they’d probably aim for payback! The one character I’m really fond of is Emily Mitchell from my Middlemarch Mates series. She’s the only character who makes her appearance in every book in the series. I could trade places with her.

7. What accent is sure to make you swoon?
I’m a big fan of the Irish accent. It’s very sexy and easy on the ear. My husband and I worked in London pubs for several years. London is a real tourist Mecca and, since it’s a large city, it also brings in workers from other regions in search of jobs. We’d hear so many different accents over the course of a day ranging from English, Scottish and Irish to American, Australian and Middle Eastern. The accents that always threw me were those of people from the Manchester and Liverpool regions of England. I still recall the embarrassment I felt when a male customer was trying to order a rum and coke. I was sure he said rum and cock. Even after asking him to repeat it about five times, I thought he was trying to flirt and doing it badly. All the poor man wanted was a drink!

8. What was the most challenging thing you’ve done in the name of research that might have been out of your comfort zone?
Ha! I do most of my research in the library or online and my embarrassment is limited, although at present I’m working on a book about strip clubs. I’m pondering what I need to do in the way of research. It could be fun since one scene is a ladies’ night. Thunder Down Under anyone?

I do tend to set my stories in places I’ve visited. Lone Wolf is set mainly in Yellowstone National park, which I’ve visited twice. I’ve also set stories in Australia, England, India and of course, my home country of New Zealand.

9. Please share with us something that readers would be surprised to learn about you.
I was born with a heart murmur, and when I was younger, I had to go for hospital check ups every few years. I still have the murmur, but luckily it’s never stopped me playing sports or doing the things I enjoy.

10. How can readers stay in touch with you online?
I have my website at http://www.shelleymunro.com/ which I keep up to date. I blog most days, have lots of guests and do a few contests. http://www.shelleymunro.com/blog

I also Facebook http://www.facebook.com/shelleymunro and Tweet http://www.twitter.com/shelleymunro
If you want to write to me just send an email from the contact address at my website. I love to hear from readers.

11. If you could ask readers any one question, what would it be?
Is there a genre or a specific type of book e.g. small town, younger man/older woman, amnesia, reunited lovers etc that you’d like to see more of on book shelves and in stores?

When you fall out of step, that’s when everything falls into place.

R.J. Blake begins a new session tutoring young werewolves in the old ways—before the introduction of the shift-suppressing drugs that allow their kind to live secretly among humans. He expects nothing out of the ordinary. Until sexy, smart, aggravating-as-hell Corey Wilson arrives. Older than the others, son of a powerful Los Angeles pack leader, Corey is an instant temptation he cannot afford.

The last thing Corey wants is three months stuck in the Yellowstone wilderness, followed by the stifling life his father has all mapped out for him. One glimpse of R.J., though, sparks a determination to seduce the older man before he leaves. Yet as R.J. guides him through the sometimes terrifying process of rediscovering his heritage, a deepening respect calls to his artistic soul and fuels a burst of creativity.

When their time comes to an end, Corey senses hesitation behind R.J.’s insistence that theirs was simply a summer fling. Inspiring him to take a leap of faith with consequences neither of them saw coming. A dangerous plot that reaches from the heart of their love to the highest office in the land…

Product Warnings

This book contains a young werewolf intent on seduction, an older werewolf determined to resist said seduction, werewolf politics and brutality, a little spilled blood, and hot, naked manlove in the great outdoors.

EXCERPT:

R.J. jerked his gaze away to focus on the two girls in the group. “What can you smell?”
The kids fell silent and tested the air with intent expressions on their young faces.
“The different plants,” one of the girls replied. “They have a strong scent, more pungent than the ones in the city park at home.”

“The dirt,” the other girl said.

Teague grinned in triumph. “Animal droppings.”

Perfume,” Corey said.

“I can hear people,” Scott said, after they’d taken stock of their surroundings again. “Arguing.”

R.J. nodded in approval. “A family group is heading down the trail toward us.” He’d no sooner finished his sentence than four people—two adults plus two children—came into view on the track ahead of them. All were dressed casually in shorts and T-shirts, and footwear unsuitable for tackling the terrain. Their faces were flushed red with exertion. Sweat shone on their brows. R.J. stood back for them to pass. “Did you see anything interesting on the trail?”

“Nothing,” the father said in disgust. “Not a single animal. What a waste of an hour.” They continued past, talking in loud voices, a wave of chemical perfume wafting in their wake.

R.J. waited until they’d disappeared into their campervan. “They didn’t catch a glimpse of any wildlife because they spoke in loud voices, and you might have noticed their scent. Any sensible animal hid the instant they sensed them. If you want to see animals, you must move silently and blend with the surroundings. The same is true when you’re in wolf form. If I’m hunting, I’ll sometimes roll on the grass or rub up against the bushes to disguise my scent.” His gaze slid to Corey. “Corey, if you start to feel strange I want you to tell me immediately. Stopping the suppression drugs abruptly can mess with you.

“We’re going to take the trail to the summit of this peak and we’ll take a break there for our lunch. It’s not a race. We’ll pace ourselves and will stop regularly. Questions?” He noted their anticipation with approval. Succumbing to Yellowstone’s charms didn’t take long, and the transformation never failed to give him a sense of satisfaction.

Purchase link: http://store.samhainpublishing.com/lone-wolf-p-6304.html

ABOUT AUTHOR:
Shelley Munro is tall and curvaceous with blue eyes and a smile that turns masculine heads everywhere she goes. She’s a university tutor and an explorer/treasure hunter during her vacations. Skilled with weapons and combat, she is currently in talks with a producer about a television series based on her world adventures.

Shelley is also a writer blessed with a vivid imagination and lives with her very own hero in New Zealand. She writes mainly erotic romance in the contemporary, paranormal and historical genres for publishers Carina Press, Ellora’s Cave, Liquid Silver Books and Samhain Publishing. You can learn more about Shelley and her books at http://www.shelleymunro.com/ and you might even find her lurking at Facebook http://www.facebook.com/shelleymunro or Twitter http://www.twitter.com/shelleymunro

Links: Shelley Munro

Website: http://www.shelleymunro.com/

Blog: http://www.shelleymunro.com/blog

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/shelleymunro

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

Purchase link: Samhain Publishing http://store.samhainpublishing.com/lone-wolf-p-6304.html

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Lone-Wolf-ebook/dp/B0057WU6VY/ref=sr_1_6_title_0_main?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1309857668&sr=1-6

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/lone-wolf-shelley-munro?store=book

***GIVEAWAY***

Shelley will be giving away a $20 Amazon gift certificate to one randomly drawn commenter

TO ENTER:

MUST be a follower or become one

MUST answer Shelley's question above

MUST leave e-mail (winner will be contacted by Shelley directly)

Contest ends 08/26

Open to all

Winner of CLAIMED BY THE CAPTAIN.....

Maria... you are the lucky winner of Tara Kingston's CLAIMED BY THE CAPTAIN!!! Congrats!

(you should be getting an e-mail shortly from her)

A Heart of Little Faith by Jennifer Wilck..

Are you ready for a an emotional roller coaster, of love reborn from tragedy and second chances. A Heart of Little Faith by Jennifer Wilck from Whiskey Press (you can read my interview HERE)

There is definitely something to be said for second chance love and Lily and Gideon are most assuredly headed for one heck of an emotional whirlwind. A not so chance meeting by Gideons sister to set the two lost souls up almost ends in disaster from the moment go. Just a few years ago Gideon's life changed, or the worst if you ask him, he was in a terrible accident and is now wheel chair bound with a life altering paralization. Still successful but damaged all the same, he hasn't been with a women since his accident. Resentful but still loving his sister with all his heart he is not only not open to her attempts at match-making, he is quite bitter and standoffish. Even if that means if being a jerk to Lily will push her away.

Lily has an adorable and sharp little girl who falls for Gideon hard. They become great friends fast, but emotions run high as Lily and Gideon run hot and cold depending on his mood at the time. Lily is sweet, she is a good mom and showers her daughter with love. In her own high stress job she tells herself that she to doesn't have time for romance and surely not with Gideon. Not because of his disability, that for one isn't something that bothers her. If anything she is one person besides his sister that really treat him with the respect of any man, that is when he isn't being cross with her.

What starts out as a cold fish when it comes to their relationship or lack there of, blossoms into a really refreshing friendship with undercurrents of passion. Both want to be loved and to love again in turn. But with Lily still healing and feeling like she is betraying her dead husband they will need to learn that sometimes it is worth the leap into love, even if you do get burned. If you don't try how will you ever find out.

Soon the two are caring on an affair, as with every word they utter and moment they spend together their love and their bond gets only stronger. Although Gideon was racked with a mass of contradictions when it comes to their commitment towards new love, a new beginning and a fresh start at life together. With all that readers will have a hard time not falling in love with Lily and Gideon, for all their faults it only makes them more human, more alive and almost tangible. Their love story has so many layers and complexities, yet so simple. Open yourself to love, and love will find you.

Lily Livingston is a widow raising her six-year-old daughter, Claire, in New York City. Devastated by her husband’s death three years ago, she’s in no hurry to fall in love again. Besides, trying to balance her career with motherhood leaves her little time for romance.

With a wheelchair instead of a white horse, and a vow against falling in love again as his armor, Gideon Stone is the last person Lily expects to sweep her off her feet. But when a business agreement forces the two of them together, that is exactly what happens.

As they navigate the minefield that fast represents their relationship, can either of them overcome the obstacles to find true happiness in each other’s arms? The answer is yes, but the bumps along the way demonstrate that neither of them can go it alone.

CLAIMED BY THE CAPTAIN by Tara Kingston....

Sexy Pirates galore, ok, well just one sexy pirate out for revenge and what better way to seek revenge then to kidnap the daughter of your enemy. In Tara Kingston's new release, CLAIMED BY THE CAPTAIN, the one man who was and is responsible for his father's downfall. One the high seas with pirate Jason Kane is perhaps a little more than Catherine Farrell can handle.

On a mission, the sexy Captain Kane isn’t prepared for the onslaught of lustful passion that takes over his good sense and judgment when it comes to Catherine. She is beautiful and sharp, including her tongue. A little fearful at first as she wakes up on a ship only to learn the desirable Captain plans on using her as a ploy to destroy her father who wronged his family and forced them to lose their fortune. Catherine's fater is a swindler and liar, and Kane is hell bent and determined to see his plan through no matter the cost.

But on the high seas and with his masterfully erotic possession of Catherine, Kane was not expecting to fall in love with the wealthy beauty. She is tough though and although Catherine tries all that she might to fight Kane off, not letting him mentally get the best of her or wanting to believe what he tells her about her father; she is overcome with his powers of seduction. Simply he is charming in that Alpha, I am going to take you now, and you are my woman sort of way. Thing is both are going to have to choose love or revenge, their is no happy medium. Kane is dead set on his plans and not quit ready for the whirlwind of emotion he is starting to feel for Catherine. Having has women before to seek his pleasure, he is almost blinde-sided by his quest to claim her but to eventually claim her heart as well.

Clever dialog, captivating characters, and a love story that plays out on the promise of longing, longing to be loved and wanted you will be hard pressed not to fall for Kane and Catherine as they not only fight each other but their lascivious desires for one another.

Carried away with their tale I couldn’t put it down until I read every last word!

Jason Kane lost everything to one man’s treachery. Thirsting for vengeance, the ruthless privateer abducts Catherine Farrell, daughter of the swindler who destroyed his family. Intending to extract the debt owed him from his tempting prisoner, he plans a cold-blooded conquest. Aroused by his captive’s sensual beauty, he claims her with seductive persuasion. As he plunges her into a world of pleasure, her passionate surrender sparks a deep longing in his heart and soul.

Catherine Farrell lived the sheltered life of a prosperous merchant’s daughter until Captain Jason Kane made her a pawn in his quest for retribution. Claimed by the captain, she finds herself at the mercy of a man who will settle for nothing less than complete domination. His tender mastery awakens Catherine’s passions and stirs her heart. If only she can convince him that love is far more satisfying than sweet revenge.

Guest Author and Giveaway with Wendi Zwaduk ....

Today I would like to welcome author Wendi Zwaduk who is here to celebrate her Aug 15th release from Total-e-Bound , EVER FALL IN LOVE, a contemporary erotic romance. So please give her a warm welcome, enjoy the interview and don't forget to enter the contest!!

1. If someone were writing a story about Wendi Zwaduk what would your blurb say?

Laundry, dog fur, and RVs...such is the life of Wendi Zwaduk. If she’s not at a local dirt track doing what she calls research, she’s being the mommy and wife she’s always dreamt of being. Like the chorus of a country song, the not so glamorous life means she’s doing heaps of laundry, chasing dog fur tumble weeds and writing about the sexy heroes and spicy heroines in her head. Come join the ride!

2. Can you tell us a little about your newest release Ever Fallen in Love that isn't in the blurb?

This is the revised version of the first story I’d ever written. Yes, I know, lots of people are scared to give their first works another shot in the light of day. I thought long and hard before I reopened the document. What if the story wasn’t up to par, even if I worked on it? What if it would never be in shape? I pushed the negative thoughts aside because I loved Megan and Tucker’s story way back when I first penned it. That didn’t mean there weren’t issues. It took me time and lots of TLC to make sure it was ready for submission. I hope the love I have for the characters and the sport of stock car racing shows in this work.

3. What was your inspiration behind the creation of Ever Fallen in Love?

NASCAR!!! Yes, I’m laughing to myself as I typed that. If you talk to me, see my site, or come to my house on the weekends, you’ll see why. I’m usually talking about racing, watching racing, researching racing, or well, reading about it. My very first stock car race to watch in its entirety was the 2001 where we lost Dale Earnhardt. It made me realize the fragility of life. It also showed me the darned coolness of racing.

Five years later, I read a Harlequin romance, the first in their NASCAR library line. The line isn’t quite as strong as it was to start with, but I still read them. What got me thinking was, I could write this stuff. I like racing, know the lingo, and know about romance. I didn’t immediately sit down and pen the next big race romance. Nope. I let it percolate for a while. I mean, it wasn’t like I knew the in’s and out’s of writing. That took time. But, I was open to listening to the characters who appeared. Megan and Tucker. And yes, they both love to talk, even if Tucker won’t admit to it.

4. What was your favorite scene to write in Ever Fallen in Love?

There’s a love scene at Tucker’s makeshift dirt track. Lots of drivers have large properties and the ones who consider racing a hobby as well as a job have little bitty tracks—asphalt, concrete, and mostly dirt. Tucker’s passion is racing on dirt, so he takes Megan to his itty bitty track. He’s got a Camaro, which she’s drawn to, and they end up testing the resilience of the hood. I’ve never initiated a Camaro hood (truck hoods....maybe), but I thought, yanno, they want to be there doing this...why not?

5. Are there any other genres you want to tackle?

I’d love to dabble in a story about baseball players. One of my favorite movies of all time is Field of Dreams. I’d love to try my hand at paranormal, but not just vampires, although I love them very much, something along the lines of an elemental or a nymph. I’ve never written about a faery and that sounds rather fun, too.

6. If you could trade places with one of your characters, would you want to and who?

Megan. Hands down. Not only does she run a company where there are race vehicles, but she gets to kiss Tucker. Oh, and maybe I could get him to teach me the finer points of using the clutch. I still can’t figure out the darned thing. I love the scent of race fuel, the tang of burnt rubber, and the roar of the crowd just because they are at the track. Yeah, I’d totally be Megan.

7. What accent is sure to make you swoon?

British. I love how they make everything sound so elegant. I bought a few books as digital recordings, read by a Brit. Holy cow. The man could read me the phone book.

8. What was the most challenging thing you’ve done in the name of research that might have been out of your comfort zone?

I’m not a big one on doing things that will get me hurt. In some respects, I’m a bit of a wuss. That said, I did spend an entire race in the pits. The danger was being so close to stock cars running at high speeds. I got to check out a couple of the cars after they sadly had to leave the race due to accidents and malfunctioning parts. I suffered a whammy case of sunburn, too. Oh, and I had a friend of mine take me for a ride on his Harley, just like Megan and Tucker. Was it dangerous or out of my comfort zone? Not necessarily, but hey, it was fun.

9. Please share with us something that readers would be surprised to learn about you.
I currently have a serious Queen obsession. Not the royalty. Heck no. They’re cool and all, but I’m talking about rock and roll royalty. I don’t know what it is about their work, if it’s catchy, if it’s poppy, but I’ve had it on a loop in my head. Don’t Stop Me Now is my song of the moment. Most of their biggest hits came out when I was a kid, but hey, you can’t knock great tunes.

10. How can the readers stay in touch with you online?
www.wendizwaduk.com
http://www.wendizwaduk.blogspot.com/
I’m on twitter @WendiZwaduk
I’m on facebook as Wendi Zwaduk

I’ve got a forum on Coffee Time Romance and a reader page on Manic Readers

11. If you could ask readers any one question, what would it be?
What would you like to read about if you could pick from any possible subgenre within romance? Why?
Tucker lost the love of his life once, but this time, he’s not taking no for an answer.

Once a driver, always a driver...

Racing consumes Tucker Poston’s life. Until he sees her again. Megan Rodney. She’s the one person to come between him and his ride. She’s the only woman to understand him. The only woman he’s ever loved. Circumstances tore their love apart. Now he’s determined to show her the contents of his soul, even if it means losing his heart.

Being a driver doesn’t warm his lonely nights. Too bad she’s not interested.

Megan’s not about to fall for his smooth lines and slick image. She’s got a good life as a team owner for a stock car team. Still, memories of their love affair burn bright in her mind. What’s a girl to do when the man of her dreams, the man who pushed her away, wants a second chance at forever?

Contains a little spanking, anal play, and domination shared between former lovers, but no one’s complaining. For good measure, there’s the sizzling use of a Camaro hood for outdoor pleasure.

Excerpt One:

“I come in peace.” Tucker Poston took a step back. In one hand, he held earphones. In the other, the radio. “Want me to talk to him? I’ve got my own headset. I understand race brain.”

“Race brain?” She rolled her eyes. “You can talk, sure. I didn’t expect you.” I’m not completely upset. She took in the way his t-shirt contoured to the dips and valleys of his chest. Muscles rippled under the soft cotton. She licked her lips. Years ago, she’d spent countless hours touching and tasting his skin. A slow burn started deep in her heart. For a split-second, she’d almost admit she missed him.

“Eric got waylaid. Your rear tire changer had his foot run over by the number four truck.”

“If it’s not one thing, it’s another.” Megan tugged at the hem of her blouse, smoothing out unseen wrinkles. She sucked in her stomach. What would he think of her extra pounds? Guys of Tucker’s calibre liked women in the size two range. Her size eight wasn’t anywhere close.

She turned away and massaged her forehead. She wanted to smack herself. What would he think? What was she thinking! His opinion didn’t matter, regardless of his obvious sex symbol status. She meant nothing to him.

“Eric suggested you and I settle our differences—at the track.” He wrapped the earphones around his neck and clipped the radio to his belt loops. “I want to help you and I’d guess there will be another couple laps under caution. What’s the team frequency?”

“Forty-seven. I can’t afford another trashed truck.”Although her gaze travelled south for a moment or two, Megan groaned. Noticing the way his jeans hugged his body and accentuated the strong muscles in his legs wasn’t going to make Mat a better driver. Nope, all it did was kick her libido, back from a long hibernation, into high gear. Truth be told, she didn’t want to deal with Tucker. The wounds from his betrayal were way too fresh even after ten years. Damn. Coupled with his way of wrapping her around his finger and she didn’t stand a chance of keeping him at bay.

Tucker hooked his index finger under her chin. “Hey, I’ve got a good rapport with him. He’s scared he’s not going to finish or keep his ride. It’s paralyzing. I know where he’s at because I’ve been there too many times.”

Her heart pounded and her hands shook. If she waited another minute, Mat could put the truck into the wall. Then again, Tucker could make another move and get closer. Megan shoved her second thoughts aside in favour of her team.

“See if you can get through to him, Professor Race Brain.” She found the frequency on his headset. “I’ve got faith in you.”

The corner of his mouth lifted in a smile. “I promise you my best.”

ABOUT AUTHOR:

I always dreamed of writing the stories in my head. Tall, dark, and handsome heroes are my favorites, as long as he has an independent woman keeping him in line. I tend to write books with titles taken from songs because music is one of my many muses. I earned a BA in education at Kent State university and as well as a Masters in Education from Nova Southeastern University. I've tried my hand at teaching, waitressing, and retail sales, but writing holds my heart. I love NASCAR, romance, books in general, Ohio farmland, dirt racing, and my menagerie of animals. I have six books under contract and more than my brain can handle percolating. I can't wait to share them with you! http://www.wendizwaduk.com http://wendizwaduk.blogspot.com

***GIVEAWAY***

Wendi will be giving away a $10 Amazon gift certificate to one randomly drawn commenter

To Enter:

MUST be a follower or become one

MUST leave e-mail (so Wendy can contact winner)

MUST answer Wendy's question above

Open to all

Contest ends 08/19

Guest Author & Giveaway with David M. Brown

Today I would like to welcome author David M. Brown who is here to celebrate his debut fantasy novel which is set in the world of Elenchera, Fezariu's Epiphany. Please give David a warm welcome!

1. If someone were writing a story about David M. Brown what would your blurb say?

David Brown was a man in crisis. He’d been outwitted by his six cats once again and he’d had enough. Glancing through a copy of the Argos catalogue David’s hopes were restored in the form of the latest Super Soaker. Armed with the cats’ worst enemy David prayed that peace would once more return to his home, but he didn’t count on the ingenuity of his six cats and the human shield that was his wife, Donna!

2. Can you tell us a little about your newest release Fezariu’s Epiphany that isn't in the blurb?
Fezariu’s Epiphany is the first in a series of self-contained novels set in the world of Elenchera. The reader won’t be obligated to read them in any particular order but each one will offer a taste of the twenty-three lands that make up this unique world and the 47,000+ years of history that currently makes up the timelines.

3. What was your inspiration behind the creation of Fezariu’s Epiphany?
When I was first writing the history of Elenchera I was disappointed to find one of my favourite institutions – The Merelax Mercenaries – always seemed to be in the background when it came to historical events. I was fascinated by the mercenaries and decided to devote a novel to them. Initially Fezariu’s Epiphany was simply about the main character joining the mercenaries and finding out that war isn’t as romantic as the mercenaries profess in their posters seeking recruits. The novel changed dramatically when I incorporated aspects of an old short story of mine, A Mother’s Blessing, into the main plot. Thanks to that combination and some brainstorming with my wife, Donna, the novel became a more emotional story and definitely a much better one.

4. What was your favorite scene to write in Fezariu’s Epiphany?
Chapter 20 depicts Fezariu’s first taste of battle when the mercenaries enter a coastal city – Redemption – which is in the midst of flames thanks to a slave revolt in the vortex. I remember that chapter being a joy to write, the words flowing seamlessly onto the page and my enthusiasm for it was reciprocated by my wife who read it in one sitting and praised it many times. Believe me, if she doesn’t like something I’ve written she’ll tell me, so that was a proud moment for me.

5. Are there any other genres you want to tackle?
I’m trying to do something different with fantasy and that involves maybe branching out into other genres. My next novel, A World Apart, will have some romantic elements in it. I don’t think I could ever fully abandon fantasy, I’d be too maladjusted leaving my comfort zone for long.

6. If you could trade places with one of your characters, would you want to and who?
I certainly wouldn’t choose Fezariu. I put him through far too much in the novel to want to go through it myself! The safe choice would be the retired mercenary, now messenger, Modius. He has the luxury of delivering letters all over East Elenchera so I would be able to wander my own world but not have to get involved in any of the fighting. I wouldn’t survive the recruitment process for the Merelax Mercenaries, that’s for sure.

7. What accent is sure to make you swoon?
I’ll have to be careful here, my wife will likely be reading this! I can’t think of any accents in the UK that would make me swoon so I’ll have to head overseas. The French language is a pleasant one, so I’ll probably go with that. Sorry Donna, I know you would have preferred me to say German!

8. What was the most challenging thing you’ve done in the name of research that might have been out of your comfort zone?
Most of my research is from the comfort of my laptop or just in the pages of a book. I do draw on life experiences when conveying certain aspects of my stories and one springs to mind that was certainly difficult! I do enjoy walking and can cover a fair distance but in June 2006 my brother and I set ourselves the challenge of walking from Huddersfield to Barnsley with the intention of arriving in time for England’s World Cup match against Paraguay. We managed the 15 mile walk in 5 hours with pizza and beer waiting for us at the end. A good thing really as I have seldom been more exhausted in my life!

9. Please share with us something that readers would be surprised to learn about you.
I can proudly say I’ve never broken a bone in my body but one injury did befall me at the age of 14 while at secondary school. It was July and the last lesson of the day was P.E. As a treat our teacher decided we would play baseball though we (or should I say “I”) soon found out why gloves are worn. I remember the ball hurtling towards me, I held out both hands and assumed it would land between my palms. Instead the ball landed between two of my fingers, simultaneously pushed them apart and back, splitting my hand open in the process! Thankfully, my hand went numb on impact and I felt no pain during the whole episode. I didn’t have my hand stitched up till the following day and lying in hospital my one consolation was that I was going to miss the last day of school. As it turned out the school roof collapsed during the night and everyone had the day off! Just the sort of news you want to hear when waiting in a hospital! I still have a scar on my hand to this day.

10. How can the readers stay in touch with you online?
You can find me on Twitter (@elenchera - http://twitter.com/elenchera) and Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/fezariu), if you want to know more about Elenchera and Fezariu’s Epiphany then head for http://elenchera.com and I also have a blog, The World According to Dave (http://blog.elenchera.com/). Finally, you can email me at dave@elenchera.com and please do! I love feedback and contact with readers.

11. If you could ask readers any one question, what would it be?
I’d probably ask for a secret formula to making my next book loved and cherished by every reader that picks it up. An impossible dream I know but a nice one all the same! On a more serious note, I’d simply ask for honest feedback.

The White Oak, Clarendon’s oldest brothel, lured and destroyed men by the thousands. Fezariu was different. He had never been drawn by the White Oak’s vices but the brothel had still ruined him when he was just a boy.

Salvation came in the form of the Merelax Mercenaries – Elenchera’s most prestigious hired hands. They gave Fezariu the chance to escape from his past. Immersed in the world of dangerous assignments in the colonies Fezariu longed to forget everything about his childhood but only in facing the past would he ever be free of it.

EXCERPT

Chapter 26

The White Oak betrayed the impact of the stranglehold of time. The once pristine sign above the main entrance had faded, while the outer walls were cracked and filthy, their once white coat blemished and degraded. Nonetheless, the clattering of glasses, raucous laughter and jovial music still flowed from the open windows out onto the filthy streets.

Across the street from the White Oak, Fezariu stood with one hand resting on the wall of a derelict house, his eyes were locked on the door of the White Oak and his mind was reliving that fateful day when he had seen his mother entertaining the patrons. She had pushed him aside then, defined the worthlessness that had consumed his very essence until he stumbled upon the path of salvation that led him to Merelax Island and to the mercenaries.

The last time Fezariu had seen the White Oak he had been nothing to his mother, nothing to anyone, but now things were different. He had changed his life around, he was successful now, respected by his peers and finally of some value. With the weight of achievement supporting him, Fezariu finally had the reason and purpose to come back to the White Oak, to prove to his mother what he had done with his life; that he had thrived without her love and without her help. Today he would dictate the exchange between them, show Wild Jessamine that she was just another whore to him and not his mother. As a child, Jessamine had looked down on Fezariu and cast him aside as she would stained garments, but now Fezariu would tower above her and make her feel the same worthlessness he had

Author bio:

David M. Brown was born in Barnsley in 1982 and first conceived the idea of Elenchera in college. His love of history and English led him to read these subjects at Huddersfield University. David is inspired by medieval history, Norse mythology and Japanese role-playing video games and anime films. He lives in Huddersfield with his wife Donna and their six rescue cats

Want to learn more about David and Fezariu's Epiphany? Or buy the book?
The Elencheran Chronicles: http://elenchera.com/
The World According to Dave: http://blog.elenchera.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/elenchera http://www.facebook.com/fezariu
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/elenchera
Book Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPgcNNLMBvY

***GIVEAWAY***

David will be giving away a $25 Amazon gift certificate. To enter the contest just leave a comment.

To Enter

MUST be a follower or become on

MUST leave email ( David will need to contact winner!)

MUST answer David's question above

Contest ends Aug 19th

Open to all

A Heart of Little Faith author Jennifer Wilck....

Today I would like to welcome author Jennifer Wilck to Book Junkie. She is here to celebrate her release A Heart of Little Faith from Whiskey Creek Press which is a heartfelt and sensual look at a second chance at love with two very wounded souls.

So please give Jennifer a warm welcome and enjoy the interivew.

1. If someone were writing a story about Jennifer Wilck, what would your blurb say?
Jennifer Wilck is a wife, mother, daughter and friend who juggles her everyday responsibilities with her dreams of becoming an author. With the June publication of her first romance, A Heart of Little Faith, she’s one step closer to making that dream a reality.

While chauffeuring her daughters to after-school activities that require an Excel spreadsheet to be kept straight, serving on her Temple Board, training the family dog, and cooking dinners that fit the needs of four very different appetites, she composes scenes and listens to the conversations in her head for her next book.

When those voices get too loud, she retreats to her computer, where she writes stories that let her escape from reality. In her made-up world, the heroines are always smart, sassy and independent. The heroes are handsome and strong with just a touch of vulnerability. Come along; it’s a great ride!

2. Can you tell us a little about your newest release A Heart of Little Faith that isn't in the blurb?
Sure. Lily and Gideon are two people, living in New York, who face physical, emotional and psychological obstacles in their search for true love. With the help of Lily’s six-year-old daughter, Gideon’s sister and a ridiculous “business” arrangement, they slowly come to terms with their feelings and learn that most of the obstacles facing them exist in their heads.

3. What was your inspiration behind the creation of A Heart of Little Faith ?
Well, I wanted to show that even strong women can be vulnerable and that it’s okay for them to accept help. At the same time, I wanted to show men are strong in ways other than just physically. I thought about all the reasons a man and a woman might think they weren’t ready for love, and then the reasons why they were wrong. This story just evolved from there.

4. What was your favorite scene to write in A Heart of Little Faith ?
I actually really liked writing the dream sequences that repeat throughout the book. Gideon has what starts out as an erotic dream and slowly descends into a nightmare about his ex-girlfriend. The dreams coincide with the times that he gets close—physically and emotionally—to Lily. Initially, when he has the dream, it convinces him to stay away from her. By the end, the “evil” ex-girlfriend in the dream is replaced by Lily and it transforms from a nightmare to a wonderful dream that leads him to declare his love for Lily. So they were fun to write—lots of imagery and progression that was a lot of fun to write.

5. What accent is sure to make you swoon?
I love a good Australian accent. There’s something self-assured about it that is definitely sexy!

6. What was the most challenging thing you’ve done in the name of research that might have been out of your comfort zone?
To write Heart of Little Faith, I had to get an idea of what life in a wheelchair is like—especially the psychological ramifications of someone who hadn’t always been in one. I ended up finding a very nice man online who was willing to talk to me. But it was very odd, and extremely uncomfortable on my part, to ask fairly intimate questions of some random guy I didn’t know. So I kept finding these really convoluted ways of pardoning my nosiness and asking my question and understanding if he didn’t want to answer. He was a great guy and very funny, so he tried to put me at ease, but that was definitely out of my comfort zone.

7. Please share with us something that readers would be surprised to learn about you.
The first time my husband read my book was after it was published. And no one knew I wrote until after I had a publishing contract.

8. How can the readers stay in touch with you online?
I love to hear from readers! They can reach me through my website at http://www.jenniferwilck.com/, on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jennifer-Wilck/201342863240160 or through one of my blogs, Fried Oreos: http://www.jenniferwilck.wordpress.com/ or Heroines With Hearts (I’m a contributor): http://www.heroineswithhearts.blogspot.com/.

9. Favorites List… fill in the blank
1. Favorite City: Paris
2. Favorite Romance book of all time (your go to book you can read over and over again): anything by Lynn Kurland, but especially This Is All I Ask
3. Favorite type of hero: Alpha, but not too alpha.
4. Favorite Quote: You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.

10. If you could ask readers any one question, what would it be?
What draws you into a book and makes you unable to put it down?