When Angie goes head to head against her old nemesis Zach, “backroom negotiation” takes on a whole new meaning. As lawyers on opposite sides of a case, they’ve got plenty to argue about. She’s an environmentalist. He’s in-house counsel for a land developer.
But handling difficult clients, interfering family and friends, as well as courtroom battles proves easier than facing a growing mutual attraction that threatens to spin out of control.
While Angie wants to believe there’s more to life than legal briefs, she’s been burned before. Can she learn to trust Zach, or will complications of his playboy past derail any chance of a happily-ever-after?
(Please note: Though this is the third book in the Santa Monica Trilogy, it can be read as a stand-alone novel.)
“Heard your dad’s company is getting sued.”
Zach dove for the ball, slamming his shoulder against the floor. “What?”
Mike gave him a hand up. “It was on the CNS dinger this morning. You didn’t know?”
Zach scowled. As in-house counsel for Stewart & Landry LLC, it was his job to know. That’s why he regularly monitored the Courthouse News Service, and kept tabs by phone and email. It figured this would happen the one day he headed out the door without checking.
He swiped an arm across his sweaty forehead and readjusted his grip on the racquet. “Your serve.”
Another minute passed in silence, punctuated by grunts and the slap of the ball against polyurethaned hardwood and tempered glass.
“So who’s the plaintiff?” Zach asked when the volley ended.
Mike shrugged. “Some woman claiming CEQA violations.”
No surprise there. The California Environmental Quality Act was the bane of every developer’s existence, and a cash cow for any shady real estate lawyer who could find a tree-hugger willing to take up the cause.
“Damn leeches,” he muttered.
“What’s that?”
“You’d think people would be grateful that we’re infusing life into a sluggish economy.” He struck the ball with such force that it rebounded off the back wall and would have hit Mike if he hadn’t jumped out of the way.“If not for us redeveloping the area, they’d have nothing but urban blight on their hands. Some of those buildings are barely standing, with so many code violations they should have been razed decades ago.”
“Hey, don’t kill the messenger. If you want to be angry, take it out on the plaintiff’s attorney.”
“And who’s that?”
“Judge MacDowell’s daughter. Alice? Anna? Something with an A.”
Zach drew up short. “Angie?”
“Angela. That’s it. Pretty hot commodity in real estate law, from what I hear.”
“Yeah.” Zach forced his attention back to the game.
“Pretty hot in all respects, come to think of it.” Mike grinned. “The ass on that babe…”
Zach gritted his teeth. “Grow up, would you?”
“Oh, please. Like you haven’t thought the same thing?”
“Not about her.”
“What, are you blind?”
“No. But her sister’s a friend of the family.”
Mike blinked. “Then what’s she doing suing you?”
“I don’t know. But I’m sure as hell going to find out.”
~
The raised voices outside her office gave Angie a few seconds’ warning before the door burst open and a glowering Zachary Stewart stormed in.
“What is this crap?” He flung a large manila envelope on her desk.
“Hello, Zach.” She got up slowly. “I see the process server found you.”
“What the hell are you trying to pull here?”
Angie took her time responding. It wasn’t every day that six feet of ripped, fire-breathing male invaded her office. Her gaze slid down the broad shoulders and lean waist. Oh, my. The things he did for a navy pinstriped suit and oxford shirt should be illegal.
By the time she’d worked her way back up to meet his gaze, she could almost feel the anger rolling off of him in waves.
“You seem a little hot under the collar, Zach. Would you like an ice water to help you cool down?”
His blue eyes narrowed. “Knowing you, that water would likely get spilled ‘accidentally on purpose’ down my suit. No thanks.”
“You overestimate my aggressive tendencies.”
“I don’t think so. I still remember how you negotiated your sister’s settlement. You could teach a Doberman a thing or two about aggression.”
She folded her arms across her chest. “Roger and your dad started S&L together. It was only fair that Roger’s widow get compensated for his share of the company. And in case you forgot, there was no buyout agreement in place when he died. I wouldn’t have had to push so hard if there had been.”
“A buyout agreement wouldn’t have covered all the legal problems Roger caused,” Zach retorted. “In case you forgot, he was dabbling in suspect investments on the side.”
Angie bit her lip. Zach didn’t even know the half of it. Luckily, Eva had managed to emerge—with Angie’s help—from the legal and financial nightmare following her husband’s death. She’d had to sell her house and scramble for a job, but in the end, everything had worked out for the best.
Zach’s voice interrupted her thoughts.
“In any case, that’s over and done with. But this—” he leaned forward and jabbed a finger at the paperwork he’d tossed on her desk “—is ridiculous, and you know it. S&L has jumped through all the regulatory hoops mandated by state and local government. Your client had plenty of time and opportunity to voice her concerns. The Environment Impact Review was released for public comment over a year ago. And in that time, the city council, planning commission, and rent control board have held dozens of hearings. Everyone’s objections were duly noted and addressed.”
“You’ve got to be kidding me. The objections were swept aside and ignored. A de minimis change in your developmental agreement that doesn’t trigger further review of traffic and environmental impacts makes a mockery of the whole process. The city council basically rubber stamped whatever plans you put in front of it, with complete disregard for the residents’ concerns.”
“Everything S&L did was by the book,” Zach said.
“Maybe in your view, but my client sees it differently. And at this point, the only way to get the city council to sit up and take notice and hopefully redress her grievances is exactly this.” She nodded toward the manila envelope between them. “And while the courts re-examine everything, the injunction we’re requesting will at least prevent you from demolishing my client’s home.”
He scowled. “This is extortion, plain and simple. S&L made a more than generous offer for relocation payments to the residents. Your client was the only one who refused to sign.”
“She had good reason.”
Zach took a deep breath. “Look, let’s cut to the chase here. What will it take for this to go away?”
“If you’re asking me that, you obviously haven’t read our complaint carefully enough. It’s all spelled out in black and white.”
“I read it,” he said. “And it’s complete bullshit.”
Angie shook her head. “For shame, counselor. Is that the kind of language they teach you at Harvard Law?”
A muscle ticked in his jaw. “Angie…”
“You know the drill, Zach. Thirty days to file your answer.” She ushered him toward the door. “I’ll see you in court.
Jill Blake loves chocolate, leisurely walks where she doesn’t break a sweat, and books with a guaranteed happy ending. A native of Philadelphia, Jill now lives in southern California with her husband and three children. During the day, she works as a physician in a busy medical practice. At night, she pens steamy romances.
Saving people is FBI Agent Kaitlyn Rivers drug of choice. That’s not the only thing she loves about her job. The sexual tension is mounting between Kaitlyn and her alpha boss, Agent Joel Connor.
Assigned into an undercover operation to stop a serial child abductor with the pathetic Cole Sommers, Kaitlyn is silently thrilled when Cole is forced off the case and Joel steps in. Intense romance, steamy sex scenes, and a nail-gripping case that will attract fans of crime dramas and thrillers. This action-packed erotica is sure to leave you pleased three times over!
I swallow anxiously, my heart racing at lightning speed in my chest. “I never do as I’m told. You should know that.” We’ve had our own share of disagreements and butting heads in the past. This feels different, hotter, sexier. I feel my insides ache for release. Will he give it to me or tease me into submission?
Joel’s hand slides beneath my back. His warm touch startles and arouses me. I feel his leg move between mine and his knee climb closer to my groin, adding enough pressure to elicit a moan. I don’t know what will happen tonight and for the moment I don’t care. I want him, more than I’ve ever wanted anything in my life.
“Bad girls get spanked,” Joel whispers into my ear and flips me onto my stomach. Before I have time to respond or fight back, I feel his hands at my sides pulling down my pants and underwear, just enough to expose my bare flesh.
Ravyn is a sassy, fun-loving, and adventure-seeking young woman. She loves to travel and can’t wait for her next vacation, wherever it might be.
Ravyn writes romantic erotica. She began writing romance novels in college, spending her down time either reading a book or writing fiction. Please don’t make her choose between the two, she loves them equally.
Although BURNING DESIRE is her debut romantic erotica novel, it is not her first published book. She has been published professionally since 2013. You can find her other books here.
Today, we are featuring The Duke’s Bedeviled Bride, book two in the erotic historic Royal Pains series by Nina Mason. The series, set in Scotland and England during the Restoration period, is available in e-book or paperback.
The tawdry tale of the Duke and Duchess of Dunwoody continues… Maggie Armstrong, the long-lost illegitimate daughter of the heir presumptive to the throne, is bedeviled by her husband’s limited definition of fidelity. After observing him in a ménage à trois at the court of King Charles II, she is determined to bring him around to her way of thinking—by any means necessary.Robert doesn’t mind being punished for his transgressions. Rather, he enjoys being whipped, especially by his beloved bride. Unfortunately, her heart might not belong to him alone. His younger brother, who he’d sent abroad to clear the way for himself, is coming home sooner than expected, and Maggie’s feelings for Hugh may not be as dead as her husband had hoped.Both duke and duchess soon learn, to their peril, Hugh Armstrong is not the honorable man they’d been led to believe. Insanely jealous of his brother’s situation, Hugh will stop at nothing to strip Robert of all he holds dear—including his life.But the real danger for Robert and Maggie is not the villainous Marquess, but the growing friction betwixt Catholics and Protestants in Restoration Era Great Britain.Can their love survive the trials that await them?
Nina Mason is a hopeful romantic with strong affinities for history, mythology, and the metaphysical. She strives to write the same kind of books she loves to read: those that entertain, edify, educate, and enlighten.
She is the author of The Queen of Swords, a darkly erotic Scottish paranormal romance/urban fantasy; The Tin Man, a political thriller; Devil in Duke’s Clothing, an erotic historical set in 1680 Scotland; The Duke’s Bedeviled Bride, the follow-up to Devil in Duke’s Clothing; Starry Knight, the first book in a new PNR/UF series; and Dark and Stormy Knight, book two in The Knights of Avalon series. Born and raised in Orange County, California, Ms. Mason currently lives in Woodstock, Georgia.
Please note that this book contains scenes of spanking, flagellation, female ménage,voyeurism and dominance and submission. Also as it is difficult to review this book without some reference to book 1, Duke in Devil’s Clothing, it does contain some spoilers.
A Lusty Dose of the Restoration Period *****
In Nina Mason’s The Duke’s Bedeviled Bride, the scorching tale of love and lust between Robert, the dissolute Duke of Dunwoody and Maggie, his convent raised new wife, continues to unfold. I found it to be an exceedingly naughty and (at times) dark read.
After events in the previous novel, the couple are at an impasse concerning the nature of fidelity and Maggie is determined to ensure that Robert will remain totally faithful. I LOVED the wickedly delicious scenes of punishment in which Maggie ensures that Robert is fully aware of the depth of her displeasure! There is much tension between the couple but their love for each other is strong, despite the many trials they face in this novel.
This marital disagreement is the least of their worries, as with the unexpected arrival of Hugh, Robert’s younger brother, accompanied by his new bride, jealousy rears its head. It becomes evident that Hugh has his own agenda and all is not as it seems…. The drama takes place against the backdrop of growing unrest between Protestants and Catholics. Robert and Maggie are faced with a number of threats that test their very lives and love and help comes from an unexpected source. I will not say any more about the plot, but suffice to say that this erotic read was a real page-turner and I was wildly entertained throughout!
In particular, I adored how the author explores the nature of trust in the couple’s relationship and the fine line between pleasure and pain in some decadent scenes of dominance and submission. Nina Mason’s use of language in the book and her references to the religions, personalities and philosophies of the Restoration period, added significantly to my enjoyment.
If you enjoyed Robert’s and Maggie’s story in the first book, Duke in Devil’s Clothing (click on the title for my review), you will want to devour this read too. Recommended for readers who relish a heavy dose of eroticism with their historical romance.
Reviewed by Tina Williams
A copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of fair and honest review.
Bring home the girl, get the glory. He never thought being tied to the club would land him in cuffs. Retrieving the wildcat daughter of a fellow club member lands Paxton cuffed, naked, to her bed—which he is totally okay with.
Resident tattoo artist for the Hell’s Sons, Paxton inks badass bikers, but he wants to climb the ranks within the motorcycle club. When he asks the president for a task to prove his value to the club beyond his artistic abilities, he is given an assignment—bring back the uncontrollable wildcat Santana DeSoya, the estranged daughter of a club brother.
Since the day her father walked out on her mother during a desperate family crisis, Santana hasn’t seen him and good riddance. Then a brawny, tattooed god walks up to her, and commands her to get on his Harley and return to her father’s motorcycle club with him. She has no choice but to take matters into her own hands—or handcuffs, that is.With the tables turned and Paxton tied up—literally—he’s convinced his bid for club recognition is lost. While he calls to Santana’s vulnerable side and things heat up between them, putting her trust in a biker is almost as hard as returning to the club that nearly destroyed her family. Can Santana and her father settle their differences, especially when she rumbles back into his life on the back of Paxton’s bike, sporting his ink?
Em Petrova lives in Backwoods, Pennsylvania, where she raises four kids and a Labradoodle named Daisy Hasselhoff. Her dream is to buy an old pickup and travel small-town USA meeting people and hearing their stories. Her heroes are hardworking – in bed and out —and she is known for panty-scorching erotic romance.
The two Falconer boys, Raphael and Michael, were named for the archangels. Lily Herald knows that they are anything but. At twenty-two, she married Raphael, the first Falconer boy. By twenty-five, she was divorced, having traded in her wedding ring for two near-fatal bullet wounds—the best damned trade of her life. No one, especially not Michael Falconer, knows why she’s returned home, to the place of so many shared and painful memories, but he’s determined to find out before she destroys what’s left of his family.
Michael bit back a curse as he turned to leave the café, but Katie called out, “You really love her, don’t you?”
He looked over his shoulder. “Yes, I do.”
“Good.” Katie’s smile was unsteady, but it held. “Maybe I had someone like you after Raphael left me, I might have been okay too.”
“Does that mean you’ll tell me what Raphael did to Lily?”
She shook her head. “I don’t know what Raphael did to Lily. She didn’t tell me.”
“But that day, in the café—”
“When Lily and Anna fought? I told Lily what Raphael did to me. I thought she might understand. She did.” Her fingers twisted the hem of her T-shirt into a knot. “I needed someone to talk to, after all these years.”
Michael’s jaw dropped. “You haven’t told anyone? Not even your sister?” Katie shook her head. “I couldn’t.” She swallowed hard. “Raphael doesn’t hit. He doesn’t shout. What he does, it breaks you, on the inside. I couldn’t tell anyone; Raphael said no one would ever believe me, and he was right.”
“We would have believed you.”
“Would you?” Katie raised her gaze to Michael. “Didn’t you, like everyone else, once think that Lily must have done something terrible for Raphael to shoot her?”
Michael flushed.
She turned her face away. “Sit down, Michael, I’ll tell you what he did to me, and maybe it will help you reach Lily.”
Aspiring actress Ariel Falconer is out of dreams. Disillusioned and burned-out, she heads on a lavish, all-expense-paid vacation, determined to enjoy herself one last time before facing up to the fact that life has dealt her a big flat zero.
Professional beach volleyball player Jake Hunter is full of dreams. He holds a winning hand, but only if he can find a wealthy sponsor to finance his modest lifestyle while he trains for Olympic gold.
Their mutual attraction is immediate and scorching, but neither is ready for the emotional complications of false impressions and clashing expectations. Can Ariel and Jake escape unscathed, or will their conflict shatter their dreams and the promise of love?
“No, he’s not in a relationship of any sort.”
“Good, keep going.”
“He’s not looking for a relationship of any sort.”
“Well, neither were you, right?”
“Right,” Ariel said.
“So, no complications?”
The claw digging into her heart ripped a half-sob out of her.
Noelle’s eyes widened. “Oh my God.” She hustled Ariel into the ladies bathroom, which was mercifully empty. “What happened? What did he do to you?”
Ariel blinked back the tears that stung her eyes. “He thought I was rich.”
“So?”
“He was looking for a sugar mama.”
“So?”
Ariel said nothing.
Noelle tipped her chin up. “The Ariel I know would have thought it all hilariously funny. You’d have found a way to gently refuse him without damaging his ego— the way you turn down all those marriage proposals from men drinking their heartache away. So what’s different this time?”
“I thought he was different.” Ariel leaned against the sink. “He had big dreams, and he would never let anything get in their way, but he seemed to understand me. He helped me realize that my dreams were different from what I enjoyed doing.” She sniffled. “I wanted to be an actress, but auditions always made me panicky, which is probably why I flubbed every single one of them. I hated acting; I hated the pressure of having to say the right thing and do the right thing under the spotlight. He helped me realize how much I enjoyed the stuff I was already doing, like surprising people with mixed drinks that were just exactly what they wanted, and listening to people talk and learning about the world from them. He said I would probably enjoy bartending, and he was right. I do enjoy bartending. I always did; I just didn’t realize it until he told me.”
“And then you started falling in love with him, didn’t you?” Noelle finished quietly.
Jade Kerrion defied (or leveraged, depending on your point of view) her undergraduate degrees in Biology and Philosophy, as well as her MBA, to launch her second (and concurrent) career as an award-winning science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance author. Her debut novel, Perfection Unleashed, won six literary awards and launched the Double Helix series, which should be read in order for maximum enjoyment. (Hang in there for the happy ending…) Life Shocks Romances features her sweet and sexy contemporary romance series. She writes at 3:00 am when her husband and three sons are asleep, and aspires to make her readers as sleep-deprived as she is. She is the Executive Vice President of the Florida Writers Association, and the Regional Director for Miami-Dade and Broward counties. McSill Literary Agency represents Portuguese rights for her Double Helix series in Brazil.
Immersed in a new world at boarding school, Addy Buckley learns she’s not the only one with secrets. While trying to navigate the minefield of painful lies that seem to be rattling around her family’s past, she meets soft on the eyes and heavy on the heart, Napoleon Blake. When faced with the darkness, Addy must decide to cling to her new life and friends or let the monster carry her away. The choice is hers, sink or swim.
About Wendy Owens
Wendy Owens was born in the small college town, Oxford Ohio. After attending Miami University, Wendy went onto a career in the visual arts. After several years of creating and selling her own artwork she gave her first love, writing, a try. Her first novel flowed from her in only two weeks time. That moment was when she knew she had found her calling as an indie eBook author. Wendy now happily spends her days writing the stories her characters guide her to tell, admitting even she doesn’t always know where that might lead. Check out her New Adult Romance and Young Adult Fantasy books.
Attorney, Raven Gould, is tired of defending scumbags and fending off the advances of her boss. So she decides to quit her high-powered career and take a job at a popular ice cream parlor. Her aunt is alarmed at Raven’s decision and secretly convinces psychologist, Lucas Lusk, to check out her niece’s mental state.
Reluctantly, Lucas agrees. But after meeting the dusky beauty, he realizes he wants to do a lot more than check out her mental state. The problem is, Raven has a thing against psychologists and if she discovers why he keeps running into her—seemingly accidentally—she’ll never give him the time of day.
Raven soon finds herself intrigued by the tall, quietly sexy doctor, completely unaware of his relentless pursuit, or his determination to have her at all costs. And when a dangerous enemy from Lucas’ past wreaks havoc on his career, Raven must choose between guarding her heart or standing by the man she thinks betrayed her trust.
Excerpt:
Changing the subject, Raven said, “I want to thank you again for taking me to the theater tonight. Our seats were practically on stage. I felt as if I was part of the show.”
“I’m glad you had a good time and that the show lived up to its reviews,” Lucas said before sipping his Manhattan. “I really enjoyed the show, too.”
“Music is so powerful. It has a way of bringing people together. I came away with the feeling that we should hold fast to our dreams. That made me think of your mother and her fierce desire to live in the United States, no matter what.”
“I thought of her, too. You would’ve definitely liked her.”
Raven sipped her drink and dabbed at her lips with her napkin. “I’m certain I would have. Is your father still alive?”
“No. He died several years before my mother. Heart attack.” Lucas looked away a moment.
Raven touched his hand gently. He turned back toward her. “I’m so sorry.”
“At least my brother Michael and I had them both around while I was growing up.”
“Okay. Official change of subject to a happier topic,” Raven declared sensing his melancholy.
“Like what?” Lucas asked.
“Like I’d love to pick up the cast recording of the show,” Raven said.
“Here you go,” Lucas said, removing a CD from a pocket in his coat.
Raven’s eyes widened. “When on earth did you get that?”
“During intermission while you went to the ladies room.”
“Don’t you mean when I got on that mile-long relief line?”
Chuckling, Lucas said, “Yes, then.”
“I can’t believe this. How did you know? Thank you ever so much! You’re so thoughtful!”
“I know,” Lucas replied.
“And so very humble, as well.”
“Now, now, be nice. By the way, do you piss off Santa, too?”
Raven laughed until tears filled her eyes. When they cleared, she said, “Sorry my sarcastic side sometimes overpowers everything else.”
“We’ll listen to it together,” Lucas suggested.
“Fabulous idea. I second it.”
They finished their drinks and enjoyed another round. There seemed to be no limit to their conversation until a band consisting of a pianist, drummer and guitar player began to play a lively rendition of All You Need is Love.
“I had no idea this place had a band,” Lucas admitted.
“And they’re quite good.”
“I know you love music, but how do you feel about dancing?” Lucas asked. A big grin occupied most of his face.
“Would love to!”
The song ended and the band started to play Unchained Melody. Lucas reached across the table for Raven’s hand and led her to a small area where several other couples were dancing. Raven slipped into Lucas’s arms. His closeness was so male, so bracing and she soaked in his unique scent. A familiar shiver of awareness rippled through her, as if emerging from a long sleep. Her heart hammered in her chest foolishly.
Was this an indication that Lucas had already breached her defenses? Had she already cast her fate to the wind? It would certainly appear so. Especially since the thought of being alone with him—skin touching skin—was suddenly crowding her mind and allowing no other thoughts to enter. The sensations Raven now felt were not the usual ones she’d have whenever she desired to have sex with some guy she was attracted to. These feelings were similar to those she once had when she thought she was in love with Gordon White. That made sense, she reasoned. It definitely wasn’t casual sex she now desired to have with Lucas. No, not in the least. She wanted to make slow, sweet love with him—again and again.
Lucas nuzzled her neck. Oh, yeah. She wanted him all right. And if that hard object pressing into her thigh was what she thought it was, the feeling was quite mutual.
The band launched into their rendition of I Will Always Love You, and Raven continued to enjoy his closeness as she casually slipped her arms around his neck. She gave into the desire to run her fingers through the back of his hair. In response he kissed her neck sending a fresh sensual thrill straight to her sex. Raven moved closer continuing to soak up that uniqueness of him that was making her heady. The urge to run her hands up and down his body under his clothing was nearly overwhelming. Her logical mind was running scenarios of them having sex. Some were so hot she thought the circuits in her brain would overheat. She hadn’t felt so sexually charged in ages and began to fear what might happen if she didn’t sleep with him.
When the song ended, the band played a rendition of She’s a Maniac, before taking a well-earned break.
Lucas led Raven back to their table and got them another round of drinks.
Raven took a sip of her drink. “You seem to know your way around a dance floor.”
“My mother and father loved to dance. I guess I caught on watching them.”
“Well you obviously paid close attention.”
He grinned at her impishly. “Most girls liked boys who knew how to dance. And I liked girls.”
“Good to know. Perhaps after we leave here tonight we can listen to the CD from the show. ” Raven hoped he’d take the hint.
“It should sound wonderful on my Bose system,” Lucas said.
Raven’s heart fluttered as she began to anticipate what was going to happen.
After they finished their drinks, Lucas said,” if you’d like another drink, Raven, that’s fine. As for me, if I have another, we’ll have to take other transportation home.”
“No. I’m fine. In fact, I feel great!” She attempted to rise to prove her point, but never quite got to her feet. Gravity won the battle and she sat back down.
Lucas stifled a chuckle. “You seem to have gotten a real buzz on. Perhaps, I should get you home.”
“Nope. The night is still young. And the last time I checked, so are we… Or is it the other way around? Who cares? We’re in the greatest city in the world and should enjoy ourselves,” Raven said, as she nearly slid off her chair.
“Okay, happy girl, let’s go,” Lucas said as he came around to help Raven into her coat. He bent to kiss her tender neck. She made a purring sound of contentment.
They walked the short distance to his car and he helped her inside. As he drove out of the lot, he glanced at Raven. Her eyes were closed, but there was a smile on her face. It looked like she was just resting her eyes a moment, but by the time they were back on the expressway, the sound of her soft snores filled the car nearly making Lucas laugh. He fought valiantly to stifle them, not wanting to embarrass her. It wasn’t exactly the way he imagined the end of the date would go, but shit happens as they say.
Raven woke up when Lucas cut the engine in front of her house. Disoriented a moment, she asked, “Where are we?”
Lucas smiled at her. Her cheeks were flushed with sleep making her look adorable like a little girl. “At your place.”
“I thought we were heading to yours to listen to the CD?”
“That was the original plan.”
“Uh-oh,” she said quietly. Was I asleep?”
“Yup. You slept all the way home.”
“You’re kidding. Please say you’re kidding. I’m so embarrassed. That never—
I’m so sorry.”
“Don’t be. You’re adorable when you sleep,” Lucas said, unbuckling his seatbelt.
Raven rolled her eyes. “That won’t happen again. I promise.”
“You know we can keep doing this until we get a perfect,” he said. “Same time, next Saturday?”
A yawn snuck past Raven’s defenses and she apologized quickly, but not before Lucas chuckled. “I’d better get you inside while you’re still awake.” He leaned over the console and opened her seatbelt. Then he got out, walked around the car, and opened her door.
Smiling down at her, he asked, “Would you like me to carry you to the door?”
“Heavens no! What would my aunt think?”
“That I wore you out of course,” he said, offering his hand.
Raven took it to steady herself a moment before they walked to the door together. She had removed the keys from her purse and Lucas took them to unlock the door. Then he encircled her in his arms, drawing her closer to him. He kissed her gently. “Shall I pick you up at seven next Saturday?”
She nodded and placed her arms around his neck. “I’m truly sorry about tonight. I’ve never fallen asleep on a date before.” Her lips covered his, intending to be a sweet good night kiss. But instead of parting, their lips were pulled together like electromagnets coming together in an attraction of savage harmony. Both had totally forgotten that her aunt might be up and about. They were too engrossed with each other to think of anything else but kissing and touching one another.
Raven’s back was against the door as Lucas leaned into her, first devouring her mouth and then her neck. She grabbed handfuls of his hair, pulling his face close to hers. Their lips came together again in a fury, their tongues meeting in a tangled heap while they breathed as one.
Closer still, Raven rubbed against his straining cock. A soft moan escaped her lips. Lucas cupped her breast through her silk dress as he planted hurried kisses down her neck. His other hand inched up her dress toward her drenched panties.
Whether she’s writing a short story or novel, Candy Caine will make her interracial romances hot and spicy. Always striving to entertain her readers, Candy tries to breathe life into her characters, making life often interesting for her husband, Robert back in their home on Long Island, NY. And both are trying to teach their fifteen-year old yellow Lab, Sammy, new tricks.
Candy loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at candy@candycaine.com.
We are delighted to feature author Stacy Eaton on our blog today. This bestselling author has written a host of fantastic novels, encompassing women’s fiction, romantic suspense and paranormal romance. They are all showcased in this post, where you can read the blurbs and the excerpts and check out some super book trailers. We hope that you enjoy finding out about Stacy’s books as much as we did! Tina and Caroline ❤
Stacy has been a full-time police officer since 2000. Her current assignment is as Detective of her small town department. She enjoys crime scene investigation; taking a passion in putting the pieces together to figure out the crime. She is also a business owner where she helps people get the awareness out for the causes they care most about. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for her local Domestic Violence Center. She is a mother of two, a son proudly serving in the United States Navy and a tween daughter who is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and loves cheerleading. Her husband is also in law enforcement. She loves music and photography. Stacy has published 9 novels to date, with several more coming out in 2015.
“It sounded so simple in theory; ready… aim… fire… but what actually transpired was so much more.”
Officer Nicole Nolan holds the gun steady in her hands, knowing that life will be forever altered once she pulls the trigger. Her position as a small town police officer is to protect those who cannot protect themselves. It is her job, her career and her life.
Amanda stands where protection does not exist. With several failed relationships behind her, Amanda turns a blind eye to the possessiveness Josh displays in order to sooth her desperate need to be loved. As the mental abuse turns violent, Amanda must deal with the denial and embarrassment of being a victim once again. With her emotional and physical health siting on the edge, she must fight to regain control of her life.
A gripping story with one final destination, but will it be life or death?
Excerpt
“Steve, stop!” I managed to say. He dropped my arm and wrapped his thick arm tightly around my waist.
“Don’t tell me what to do, Amanda. You don’t tell me what to do. You got that?” The voice next to my ear sounded like it was shouting, but I knew it really wasn’t. This voice that, only a few months ago, had lulled me into feeling safe, now frightened me.
I didn’t try to fight him; the fear of being held against my will did not allow me to think straight, must less fight. His breath slid past my right ear; I needed a way to calm him down, but my mind went blank. I did not know how to deal with the anger and agitation that had been growing in him recently.
Steve released his arm from around my waist and turned me towards him, his other hand still wrapped around my thin neck. My eyes felt huge as I looked up at his face. Could he not see the fear and pain in my face? Did he not care? His brown eyes were wild.
“You will stay away from Mark. Do you hear me?” This time he did shout at me, and I tried not to flinch. Without thinking, I reached up to pry his hands from my throat.
There is a place that lies between heaven and Earth, it is called The Realm. Within this place, the Guards of Peace, known as Garda Síochána, learn to guide and protect the ones that live below until they are called home.
Officer Corey Hamilton is dedicated to being the best that she can be, in uniform and out. Her loving nature, compassionate thoughts, and warrior strength make her the perfect candidate to join the Garda Síochána and spend her eternity protecting and guiding others.
Just before Corey dies in a line-of-duty accident, she meets Officer Mitchell O’Reilly. Her feelings for him may change her destiny, but not for the better, as she falls in love with this married man. Brock, Corey’s personal Garda, will bring her home to The Realm and attempt to train her for her future, even while she still fights for her past.
Will Brock be able to direct Corey down the right path, or will she cross the line and fall from grace?
Join Corey, Mitchell, and Brock for an emotional and heart-pounding adventure that is sure to make you wonder if angels are really guiding us in our everyday lives.
Excerpt
A tremor passed down my spine as I realized what he must mean, “I’m dead.” I spun back to the younger man, his fierce sea foam gaze observing me closely.
“Yes, you are.”
I swallowed and turned away. I watched a man fall to his knees, the pain on his face so evident that I wanted to comfort him. I felt like I had to help him, and I took a step forward.
Brock materialized in front of me, blocking my path. “Not now, Coralenna. We must go.”
I jumped back into a fighting stance, my arms up, my hands lightly fisted. “How did you do that?”
A small chuckle came from behind me before Brock answered, “I just can, you will be able to soon, too. It is time to leave.”
“Where are we going?”
“Home, Coralenna, we are taking you home.”
Montgomery stepped up beside me and smiled pleasantly. Without thought, I returned his easy smile, feeling at peace until I glanced over the scene again.
“Did anyone else die?” I watched people running around. The man was now on his hands and knees, his head bowed as if he were crying. Was he crying for me? Why?
Jacquelyn Liveon is a small time detective who loves her job, but hates attention. When she steps in front of heartthrob silver screen actor, Ryan Palmer, to stop a gunman, she finds herself dangling in to the public spotlight. Ryan can’t believe a woman would save him and not want more from his glamorous life. Could the words “I Fear No Evil” that are printed on her shirt be more correct than he thought?
When Jacquelyn goes undercover, she gets submerged into a world she never wanted to understand. How does she deal with the threats against Ryan? What happens with a major event flips the movie set upside down and injures people that they care about?
Join Jacquelyn and Ryan as they act out the relationship for the assignment, and try to survive the secrets, the threats and the explosive relationship that burns behind the scenes.
Excerpt
“Sorry, but I can’t. Why are you pointing a gun at me?” I asked him, purposely keeping my voice low. Rule number one for any hostage negotiator was to always remain calm and talk softly, to try to get the person to stop and listen.
He regarded me again, glanced at his gun, and then looked back up at Ryan. “I’m pointing it at him, not you. Move!” he said loudly, although not quite shouting this time.
“Wait a minute, why do you want to point a gun at this guy?” I pointed to Ryan over my shoulder. I still stood directly in front of him and his fear continued to roll over me like a stormy night on the beach. Thank God, I didn’t normally get sea sick.
The gunman directed his attention back to me, this time keeping eye contact as he spoke. “Because I’m going to kill him. Now move, or I’ll shoot you, too!” His voice rose with each word.
“Why would you want to kill this guy?” I turned to glance quickly behind me and saw Ryan staring over my head at the man with the gun.
“Because my wife is in love with him!” he shouted. I almost found this funny. Almost. Half of the world’s population of women was probably in love with the Ryan. He was smoking hot, but you wouldn’t hear me say that out loud to anyone.
Detective Sergeant Mackenzie McAllister leads a team of police investigators. When the new kid, Drew Bradley, joins the squad Mack is bound by duty to show him the ropes. The chemistry between them is immediate, but with Mack being twelve years older, she fights becoming entangled with the young sexy detective.
Drew enters the unit, not only to help with the investigation they are conducting, but to find out what is really going on inside the walls of the unit. Working with the intense and strict Sergeant Mack is invigorating, but between the need to protect her and his second shield, he is at a loss and falling hard.
Together they will uncover the evil from within, and try to deny the passions that rage between them. Who in her unit is trying to keep her from finding out the truth? Who will take a life that will draw them closer? And what are the secrets hidden behind the shield?
Excerpt
Holy hell, Greek gods really did exist. I had never believed it before, but today, I saw one in the living, breathing flesh. Even the harsh flickering yellow fluorescent lights that lit the industrial-looking hallway did nothing to distract from this masterpiece. His black dress shoes reflected the light as they rapped out a cadence on the plain white floor covering. His black dress pants held the perfect crease as they slithered up his legs. With each step forward, the muscles bunched as they pushed against the polished cotton. A simple silver buckle on his dress belt winked at me, taunting me.
I locked my jaw to contain my drool. His tan dress shirt with thin black stripes, top button undone, and sleeves rolled up set off his physique to perfection, as if tailored for him.
His chin was down as he stared at the floor. Could he feel my gaze stripping him naked? Was that why he slowly lifted his chin? Immediate recognition lit his face, and something flickered in his bright blue eyes. The grin that spread over his full lips dipped ever-so-slightly on the right. Holy hell was right! This man could make an angel fall from grace with just a smile.
“There she is,” his words bounced off the plain beige walls.
Emergency room Doctor Rachel Wilde and Detective Grant Murphy meet by chance and it takes only one glance and a simple gentle touch to ignite their senses.
When Grant’s wife is in a tragic accident, Rachel goes above and beyond the call of duty to save her life. It is the moment she faces Grant again that their lives begin to spin out of control and they realize the lives of their loved ones were deeply intertwined.
The distorted loyalties of the ones they lost will drive a wedge between them and it will take another death, a last will and a look beyond the grave to find the path they must follow.
Excerpt
A deep masculine voice reached my ear over my right shoulder and caused a shiver to go down my spine. “I’m not sure I like the idea of your son buying my daughter a present.”
I spun around to view the man who had just spoken so intimately in my ear and had to look up. Holy cow! This guy could be the twin to the actor who played the leader of the wolf pack on that hot vampire cable series; only this guy had short hair.
For a moment, I wasn’t sure if he was being serious or joking with me, but a sexy smile slid over his lusciously-full mouth, and I realized he was very much not upset.
I cocked my head to the side, “And what makes you think it is for your daughter?”
He grinned, “Because I can see the teenaged lust in his eyes.” I laughed at his comment and glanced at Josh and Jazzy. They were standing close, and she was holding bottles up for him to smell. The pure look of pleasure he wore on his features had nothing to do with what he smelled.
“I’m Grant.” He held his hand out for me to shake and I placed my palm into his. His hands were huge and swallowed up my petite mitts.
“I’m Rachel.” His hand spread warmth all the way up my arm.
Detective Natasha Foster will put her job on the line to prove her gut feeling is dead on.
When Detective Foster responds to the scene of a crash, she finds the female passenger dead, a bag full of money in the back seat and a body in the trunk. It is only when the driver, whom she nicknames Jay, wakes up with no memory that she must go with her instincts and continue the investigation in a way that was never taught.
Jay finds himself lost, but drawn to the beautiful detective who steps above and beyond the call of duty. His need to know if he was a victim or the criminal pushes him to try and recall what happened and who he is. With the pull of a trigger, Jay’s memory will suddenly return and with it, the terrible truth.
Excerpt
“Hi Tasha. I know you told me not to reach out, but I wanted to thank you one more time. I can’t imagine going through what I did, without you by my side. You know, it’s funny, I have thirty five years of memories, and yet the only ones I want to think about are the six days with you. Why is that?” Jay signs heavily into the phone.
“I should probably go, but how can I saw goodbye to the woman who holds half of my soul? Before I met you, I never believed in love at first sight, or soul mates, but with the way I feel right not, my whole theory on life has changed. I’m making a lot of changes in me too, and that’s thanks to you. You made me want to be a better man, and I’m working on it.” He paused for a long moment.
“I guess I should go. I miss you every minute of every day, Tash. I hope you are doing really good and remember if you ever need anything, call me. I know you didn’t want me to tell you how I felt, but I have too. If I don’t say these words, someday I might regret the fact that I didn’t. I love you Natasha Foster, and I will never forget you. Goodbye.”
PUBLISHED: Revised and Re-edited December 11. 2014
“I’m still a cop, and my blood runs blue.” Officer Kristin Greene has always felt that something was missing from her life. Even though her job with the Fawn Hollow Township Police Department keeps her busy, she continues to feel as if there is something else out there she is meant to be doing. Kristin finds herself investigating a homicide where a young woman has had her throat ripped brutally out. As she begins to dig for the answers, she finds herself thrown into a world she never knew existed. When Julian and Alexander crash into her life, she finds herself being pulled into a love triangle that has been going on longer than she has been alive. Kristin in determine to figure out who they are and why they keep calling her Calista. Join Kristin as she fights to learn the truth about the recent murder, the two seductive men who have entered into her life and the real truth about herself in a suspenseful tale that weaves paranormal into to the realistic world of law enforcement.
Excerpt
For one small moment I felt her hand squeeze my arm with the last ounce of her strength, and then her fingers released my arm and fell to the ground with a soft thud. I would never have my answer. Mick and I watched as the life flowed out of her. In that brief moment, time stopped and all was silent. It was as though I had been listening to her heart beat, and then it was no more.
But suddenly, it was as if someone hit the volume button again, and the EMS and medics arrived and pushed Mick and me out of the way. We stood off to the side and watched as they tried to bring life back to this twenty-year-old woman. Damn…damn…damn! I clamped my eyes shut, took a deep breath, and yanked off my gloves as fast as I could, throwing them onto the ground in the growing pile of medical debris that was being used on her. It wouldn’t matter. No matter what they did, she was gone. I could not hear her heart beating anymore. Wait—I couldn’t hear her heartbeat even when it was beating…or could I? I shook my head to clear it. I was either more tired than I realized, or I was losing it.
Officer Kristin Greene is back for another suspenseful book packed with romance, mystery and intrigue. When Kristin goes back to work she’s happier then she’s been in a long time. Her new status in life has her solving crimes faster and better then she ever could before. She’s on top of the world, well for the most part. If she could just get him off the topic of finishing the transition, she’d be fine. When Alex goes missing, Kristin finds she finally has to reveal the secrets of her life to her friends. As the house fills up with people wanting to help, will Kristin be able to deal with the emotions that threaten to overwhelm her? Julian stands beside her faithfully as they try to locate Alex, but who is the strawberry blond woman who seems to appear at all the wrong times? What happens when Trent and Gabe enter the picture to help with the search? Will Trent be able to do as he’s told without falling for Kristin? Join us as we bring in a host of new characters to life in another suspenseful tale of romance and investigation.
Excerpt
“So here’s the deal…” I took a sip of my Firefly and inhaled again to gather my courage. “You guys remember three months ago when I was investigating that girl’s death, right?” Another nod around the room and they still remained silent.
“Well, you also know that is when I met Alex and Julian. They were also investigating the incident, but for a different reason. The person who killed that girl had killed a lot of other people. In fact, he had been killing people for almost forty years.”
“Wow…a serial killer and you got to work on the case?” Livy was impressed. “Why didn’t you say anything about that before?”
“Doesn’t Alex own a security company? Why would he be involved in a homicide investigation?” Izzy asked.
“Well, to answer both of your questions, it’s because of what the killer was. He wasn’t your regular run-of-the-mill guy just out on a killing spree. The guy was killing other people who were like him.”
“What, was he killing other criminals?” Kat laughed. “If that was the case, you should have let him continue.”
“No, not criminals.” I chuckled softly. “Man, I don’t even know how to say this.” I shook my head and downed the rest of my drink.
Barbara lives in constant fear of her husband. She finally summons the courage to leave with their young daughter, Allie, but dreads the moment her husband learns of their escape. In his desire to control them and bend them to his will, he will leave no stone unturned to punish them–especially Barbara.
Grey’s future seems bleak, especially the day he is fired, but everything begins to turn around the moment he absently sinks down on a bench occupied by wealthy Gloria Withers. Gloria sees something in him that no one else bothers to notice and, within moments, a friendship is sparked that will withstand many trials.
When Barbara makes good her escape and arrives on the doorstep of her grandmother, Gloria, whom she hasn’t seen for years, Barbara is greeted instead by Grey. It doesn’t take long for a different kind of spark to fly as Barbara takes up residence in the Withers mansion.
When Grey falls inexorably in love with not only Barbara, but also her daughter Allie, he vows to do everything he can to protect them from her husband who is out for revenge.
Excerpt
I wanted a man I could adore, and one that desired me for who I was, not how I could please him. I wanted a father for Allie, someone she could look up to so she could experience that not all men are as horrible as her father. I wanted a friend with whom I could share my life, the ups and downs and twists and turns that life threw at you. I wanted to be loved like a woman, not be a possession to be controlled.
My head told me over and over it was too soon to even consider filling that position, but my heart told me to take the vacancy sign down because the spot had already been filled. How was that possible? I stared at myself in the mirror a moment longer. I had my whole life to fall in love and have a happy family. I would take it one day at a time.
I skipped down the stairs and had just reached the bottom step when the doorbell rang. I pulled the door open wide, and my heart dropped into my stomach as I was ripped off of cloud nine.
“Well, if it isn’t my dear, sweet wife,” Todd smirked. “Don’t you look lovely—and alive.”
A big welcome today to the Blog Tour for Chloe Thurlow’s current release Katie in Love. Scroll down to read an author post and the book blurb. You can also find out about the author and enter a giveaway where you can win some signed books. Tina 🙂
AUTHOR POST
Books write themselves. The writer has to sit plucking at the keyboard long gruelling hours every day for months (do pass another bottle of red), but once the characters are created, they grow wings and live their own lives.
That was certainly the case with Katie in Love, my new novel. Katie had been in my head for a long time. Not me, but bits of me mixed with borrowed mannerisms and characteristics I needed in order to explore something I have always been afraid of: LOVE, that intangible puzzle of raw feelings and fizzing hormones.
Katie Boyd is promiscuous, shallow (not like me at all) with long dancer legs and that disdainful half smile men go crazy about. She meets Tom Bridge – a doctor suntanned in winter from his job running an orphanage in Sri Lanka, and they really hit it off in Katie’s big bed with windows looking out over the skyline of City banks.
Now what? Tom when he leaves next morning forgets his cell phone – a device that shows he is preoccupied (a character trait: he is worried about the hungry, war victims, orphan children). When he calls his own number to invite Katie for lunch, she is uncertain (a character trait) whether he merely wants his phone back or, indeed, wants to take her to lunch.
Once Katie had become herself and Tom had become himself, real people with real problems, needs, worries and phobias, I followed the road map that slowly unfolded until Katie in Love reached an ending that surprised me completely. It was a nice surprise, and I am inordinately proud of this book that Katie and Tom made me write.
BLURB
Katie Boyd has nothing in common with Tom Bridge, the volunteer doctor she meets at a party – except in bed shefinds a passion to match her own. Tom is intense, puzzling, a man who cares about others and compels Katie to question her own life drifting through the hip clubs and London party scene.
When Tom returns to his post in a Sri Lanka orphanage, Katie isn’t sure if their passion was lit by its brevity, or if love, unexpected and not entirely wanted, has edged its way into her life. Should she go back to being who she always was? Or follow Tom into the unknown?
Katie in Love is a compelling erotic-romance that will grip readers as they follow Katie’s journey to an ending they may have expected – but not in the way they expected it.
Brilliantly written and coolly self-aware, Chloe Thurlow was described by KM Dylan on Amazon as “…the Anaïs Nin of our times.” With Katie in Love – her sixth novel – Thurlow reveals a writer at the height of her powers.
Chloe Thurlow lives in London, loves movies and chatting about them after over pizza with friends. She has too many shoes, loves dancing, Mediterranean nights, hairless chests and broad shoulders. Katie in Love is her sixth novel and she is well-known for her naughty, wise, hilarious blog @ www.chloethurlow.com
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Their Second ChancebyMilly Taiden – Nick lost the woman he loved to the heartbreak of infertility. One locked door will either leave them broken forever or back together.
Forever Sheltered by Deanna Roy – A doctor with a secret falls for the unorthodox art therapist at the hospital where he works, sparking a love affair that could destroy both their careers.
Kiss of Memory by V. M. Black – Will has spent his adult life locked in a Victorian sanitarium because he suffers from seizures, but a mysterious baroness offers him a bargain he can’t refuse.
The Cowgirl Ropes a Billionaire by Cora Seton – Bella needs money fast, so she enters the reality show, Can You Beat a Billionaire. If she loses, she’ll have to marry him.
What A Girl Wants by Blair Babylon – Rhiannon, brand-new back-up singer in the rock band Killer Valentine, cannot fall in love with any of the band members. Really. She must not. Really.
Beyond Love and Hate by Zoe York – Tall, dark, handsome, and totally infuriating. Beth can’t stop thinking about her new colleague. But Finn isn’t the guy for her, and they both know it.
Ripped by Olivia Rigal – Lyv wants a life far from her dysfunctional family and their diner. What she gets is an absent rock-star baby daddy and one helluva choice to make.
Ready to Fall by Daisy Prescott – Falling in love is the last thing on John’s mind when Diane, a beautiful brunette with her own messy past, moves next door.
My First, My Last by Lacey Silks – Pierced, tattooed and hot as hell, Adrian steps back into Mia’s life after 20 years. Mature. More experienced. Intent on reclaiming his first love.
Azure by Chrystalla Thoma – On vacation in Greece, Olivia meets sexy and enigmatic Kai, but Kai belongs to the sea, and the sea won’t let him go, unless Olivia breaks the curse before it’s too late.
Wicked Little Sins by Holly Hood -The more wicked the sin, the deadlier it can be. Home for the funeral of their mother, four siblings unearth more than they bargained for.
The Royal Elite by Danielle Bourdon – Ahsan-Sheikh Ahsan Afshar, an arrogant, seductive rogue, falls for a woman whose deadly secrets could tear them apart.
All for Hope by Olivia Hardin – Brennan didn’t want to be the love of Hope’s life. He wasn’t the man she needed. But sometimes the safest distance between two hearts is none at all.
High Risk Love by S.J. Mayer – Risking it all for the one who could shatter her heart completely? Bad idea. Yet Jasmine can’t stay away from Jet any more than he can from her.
Rush by Violet Vaughn – Olympic hopeful Gretchen is all for a sex only relationship. But when it races out of control, love isn’t the only devastation that threatens her chance for gold.
First Taste by Mira Bailee – Cautious Olivia has no interest in the lives of celebrities until Devon Stone—sexy tabloid favorite—insists she cater a party at his mansion.
The Perfect Someday by Beverly Preston – Tracy lives by a strict moral code, but one masked night with a handsome Italian who entices her deepest desires changes everything.
St. Charles at Dusk by Sarah M. Cradit – Set amidst the lush and vibrant backdrop of New Orleans, Oz and Adrienne must survive forbidden love and startling heartbreak.
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