Blurb:Candy is on top of the world. She’s a high priced corporate lawyer with expensive cars, time on her hands, and money to burn. Although, she has no one to burn it on, except for a yearly ritual of buying toys and treats for the needy at Christmas time.
Cain is an egotistical enigma. A very deprived and hurting enigma, who feels wishes are for fools. A car accident leaves them stranded together, and the two have no choice but to warm each other’s cold bodies, lest they freeze to death.
As the temperature dips outside, the heat begins to sizzle inside. Candy and Cain, though worlds apart in society, begin to feel perhaps they have more in common than either could ever wish for.
Will they both discover the miracle of Christmas wishes isn’t just for the very young?
REVIEW
In this recently released festive short story we have a very strong conflict between the main two characters, Candy and Cain. But despite their differences, circumstances lead them to be stranded together and the result is some very hot, steamy moments of passion between them that will leave you hoping for more!
Candy has had a tough life, yet she has made a great career for herself in becoming a corporate lawyer. She is grateful for her upbringing, no matter how poor her family’s status was, and feels like she can now give something back to similar families and their children who appreciate her kindness and goodwill. But, the one thing that Candy doesn’t have in her life now is love – love from a family, love from a man. She is lonely, and the one wish she does have for Christmas is quickly taken from her mind with the thought that:
‘Christmas wishes were for children.’
Personally, this is something I have never believed and never will. But Candy, remaining realistic and mature pushes her fleeting thought to the back of her mind.
When she first bumps into Cain, although there was an initial attraction with this slightly dishevelled but handsome man, with a large, warm chest, there is instantly a love/hate relationship developing as they comment in adolescent ways to each other. The reader can sense both characters being a little irked with the other.
A little later, when they both become stranded together, the tension is and still there and Cain seems quite mysterious. His hard, outer shell displaying some annoyance with Candy and yet he does all he can (plus more!) to ensure that they both survive the freezing, cold night. It begins to get a little sexy between them as they only have a blanket and each other’s bodies to keep them warm in the cab of his truck, and while Candy’s thinking sensual thoughts, Cain begins carrying them out!
‘It was an odd mixture of entrapment and safety.’
During the time they have known each other, they have been judgmental towards each other, not realising the truth of their backgrounds and true feelings. But maybe they both have something in common. They have both experienced loss, and it can feel even worse at this time of year. But will they both realise this before they go their separate ways?
Candy Cain offers all you would want in a festive story: there’s the heart-warming moments of caring for the needy and their gratitude, the Christmas shopping, the presents, the snow and, of course, the romance. It is a fun and quirky read at moments, as well as being suspenseful in other instances. I am certainly looking forward to reading more from this author.
A copy of C.L. Scholey’s ‘Candy Cain’ was provided by Torrid Press for the purpose of an honest and fair review.
By reading the contents of this post you confirm that you are aged 18 years or over.
We are delighted to be joining in with the cover reveal for Nina Mason’s upcoming release, *Devil in Duke’s Clothing* which is scheduled for release early in 2015. The novel is a highly erotic historical romance set in Scotland during the Restoration Period (1680). The book features voyeurism, bondage, flagellation, and a voyeur menage. It will be the first in a trilogy titled Royal Pains, which will feature the Duke and Duchess of Dunwoody. Scroll down to have a peep at the gorgeous cover, read the blurb and check out the 18+ trailer. You can also find out how to connect with the author. Tina 🙂
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Isn’t this a gorgeous cover?
What’s inside is just as wickedly delicious.
Devil in Duke’s Clothing, an erotic historical romance set in Scotland in 1680, tells the story of an innocent bride’s struggles to come to grips with her new husband’s eccentric erotic tastes amidst the instability and hedonism of the reign of Charles II. The book is coming in January from Nina Mason, the author of The Queen of Swords and The Tin Man. Book One in the Royal Pains Trilogy, Devil in Duke’s Clothing is highly erotic, features scenes of voyeurism, bondage, flagellation, and a voyeuristic menage.
Here’s the blurb:
Maggie York, a convent-raised foundling, knows the Duke of Dunwoody’s sexual tastes are a shade or two darker than normal, but marries him anyway—partly because she has no other prospects and partly because, try as she might, she can’t seem to exorcize her desire for the dashing ducal devil. Two years ago, she watched him swive and spank her lady’s maid, luring her from the garden of innocence into the orchard of fleshly delights–and she’s been hungry for more ever since.
Robert Armstrong, the duke, is a Roman Catholic whose extreme devotions as a child warped his desires as a man. He’s also a slave to the times in which he lives–and to his king. Everything he is, everything he holds dear, depends on staying in Charles II’s good graces. Unfortunately, Maggie isn’t the bride the king selected for him. Now, to make amends, the duke must choose between the lesser of two evils: whore his wife or be reduced to a penniless commoner.
Whose interests will Robert choose to serve, his own, the king’s, or the woman he loves?
Here’s the trailer (18+ only, please):
Here’s an excerpt from the Prologue:
Maggie York had not set out to be a spy.
She’d only come into the housekeeper’s closet to look for a bootlace. It had finally stopped raining and she was eager toescape the musty, smoke-choked prison the castle had become over the past se’nnight. Sick to death of books and needlework, she yearned to be out of doors picking flowers or stalking rabbits, but could do neither of those things until she’d replaced the broken lace on her boots.
Her abigail, as usual, was nowhere to be found, so Maggie had ventured below stairs to apply to the housekeeper for aid. To Maggie’s vexation, Mrs. McQueen was nowhere to be found, either, and, too impatient to await her return, the young ducal ward elected to hunt for the needed item herself.
Now, she was where she should not be and someone was coming. Two someones, actually. If they caught her here, she’d be punished the way she’d been several years past when she’d broken the vase belonging to the duke’s mother. The old duke, the young duke’s late father, had tanned her hide so severely she hadn’t been able to sit down for a full week without wincing.
Fear pumped through Maggie’s veins as the larksome duet drew nearer. The lady was her absent abigail. The gentleman’s laughter she could not place. The duchy employed several male servants—footmen, a valet, a coachman, a gardener, and a handful of strapping young grooms–but the baritone tenor was unlike any of theirs. Neither was it the laugh of the duke’s younger brother, who’d been blessed with a cheerful disposition. The sounds of Hugh’s gaiety echoed so often through the castle’s corridors, she would have known it anywhere.
There was, however, one gentleman residing at Balloch who’d never laughed within range of her hearing. Once or twice, he’d deigned to grace her with a smile—and, Lord bless her—what a thing of beauty ‘twas to behold. Like the sun breaking through the clouds on a gloomy day. The merest glimpse made her bones feel like they were made from tallow. What a pity he was so seldom cheerful.
The laughter grew still louder. As the door opened wider, panic erupted in Maggie’s chest. She could not let them find her snooping like a common thief. Pulse racing, she closed the French doors betwixt closet and room as swiftly and quietly as circumstances permitted.
As luck would have it, the door’s linen curtains were arranged in such a way as to allow her to see into the room without being observed. The man came in first.
Her breath caught when she saw ‘twas none other than the duke himself—in naught but his kilt and shirtsleeves!
Mistress Honeywell, her lady’s maid, soon followed in her usual tartan dress but sans shoes.
Why were they both half undressed? What could they be about?
Maggie bit her lip as she watched in breathless silence.
After locking the door, the duke dropped the key into his sporran and led Mistress Honeywell to a long sofa facing the closet. Maggie’s heart leapt into her throat. She drew back and held her breath. If he saw her, she was doomed.
The maid sat quietly whilst he filled the antimonial cup with Mrs. McQueen’s medicinal whisky. Was the duke ill perchance?
His grace returned to the sofa and handed Mistress Honeywell the whisky. Was it the maid who’d taken ill? If so, why apply to the duke for physick? Maggie could not reason it out.
He stood over the maid as she drank the whisky. Since his back was to the closet, Maggie could not see what passed between them. After a spell, Mistress Honeywell rose and they turned to face one another, providing a perfect view of their full-length profiles.
Maggie expected them to embrace, but they did not.
Instead, Mistress Honeywell set about unlacing her bodice whilst he watched with rapt interest.
The maid wore no stays, but clearly had no need of their support. Her paps, though large, stood as proud and sure as a pair ofcockerels.
When Mistress Honeywell was down to her shift, the duke stepped forward, untied the neckline drawstring, and reached inside with both hands.
Maggie swallowed a gasp when he seized both the maid’s breasts and proceeded to knead them like dough. Mistress Honeywell, astonishingly enough, offered no reproach. She only tipped back her head, parted her lips, and emitted a breathy sigh.
How could she abide, let alone enjoy, such exploitation? If a man ever treated Maggie thusly, she’d slap him so hard he’d see stars for a week!
The duke swept the shift off the maid’s shoulders. The thin garment slipped down her body to her ankles. To Maggie’s astonishment, Mistress Honeywell appeared to be unashamed–either by her nudity or his grace’s covetous stares.
By the light of Our Lady’s brow! Such impiety was not to be borne. How could they be so wicked? As Roman Catholics, both had to know what they were doing was sinful.
Here’s a wee bit about the author:
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 has two books out at present: The Queen of Swords, a darkly erotic Scottish paranormal romance/urban fantasy, and The Tin Man, a political thriller.
Ms. Mason is currently at work on two new series’: an erotic historical trilogy titled Royal Pains and a four-part erotic paranormal/fantasy series titled The Knights of Avalon. Devil in Duke’s Clothing is book one in Royal Pains. Starry Knight, book one in the Knights of Avalon will be released on August 4, 2015 by Lyrical/Kensington>
When not writing, she works as a communications consultant, doll maker, and home-stager. Born and raised in Orange County, California, Ms. Mason currently lives with her husband, teenage daughter, two rescue cats, and a Westie named Robert just north of Atlanta, Georgia.
A huge welcome today to The St Nicholas’ Day Wager, by Em Taylor, a seasonal Regency Romance. This author writes hugely romantic and sensual reads and never fails to deliver. I hope that you enjoy reading the excerpt as much as I did! Tina ❤
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In Regency times, the Feast of St Nicholas, which falls on December 6th signified the start of the the Christmas season. For the poor, this propbably did not mean much as they still had to work for a living. For the rich, it was another excuse to party and attend balls and functions, drink and make merry. So not much change there either.
The St Nicholas Day Wager begins just before midnight strikes the beginning of St Nicholas’ Day in 1818. It’s a night that will change the lives of the Viscount Eastden and Lady Gabriella forever.
Blurb
As the clock in White’s hallway chimes midnight on St Nicholas’ Day morning, Lord Nicholas, Viscount Eastden makes a stupid wager. Somewhat foxed, he agrees to a wager which states that he can marry the spinster sister of the Earl of Thornwich by Christmas eve. If Thornwich wins the wager and Eastden fails in his quest to marry her, he will get ten thousand pounds and vice versa. Having grown up on neighbouring estates, Nicholas can’t figure out why a nice girl like Gabriella failed for so many seasons on the marriage mart. Gabriella appreciates the viscount’s honesty when he explains the wager. Knowing the dire straits of her family’s finances and her brother’s addiction to gambling, it seems that marriage to Nick may be the only option. But can she overcome his cruel words from their childhood when he taunted her about the strawberry birthmark on her face which blights her appearance? After such a rocky start, can the Spirit of Christmas find its way into the lives of Nick, Gabriella and their families or will injury and grievances from the past keep hem apart forever?
Excerpt
Nick has been injured by thugs in the street and although he is staying at his own rooms in Brook Street, a kindly friend brought his back to his parents house where his betrothed, Gabriella, is staying. She is supposed to be being chaperoned by her maid while Nick’s father sees to his mother who is understandably upset that her son has been attacked. Nick has a badly sprained and bruised knee, injured ribs and a cut to the head.
“Gah!” Nick roared as Gabriella lifted his knee gently, holding it until her maid placed a pillow under it and then let it down slowly. The pain was so intense it made him want to cast up his accounts there and then. But he would not show himself up in front of her.
I am sorry,” she whispered, “but it does need to be elevated.” She placed cold, wet cloths over the knee he was sure was twice the size it was supposed to be.
“Shall I take the dirty water down to the kitchen, my lady?” asked the maid, scowling into the large bowl of water he assumed to be somewhat bloody given the state of his head.
“Yes please, Molly. I shall use the bowl on the side there but please bring up some more cold water.”
Yes, my lady.” Molly bobbed a curtsey as Gabriella placed a hand on either side of his face and pushed his face into her bosom so she could inspect the wound at the crown of his head. His body reacted instantly. The poor girl was clearly not thinking about the situation she was currently in as she ran a damp cloth over the head wound. He sucked in a breath at a sharp sting and placed his hands on her waist. It wasn’t that the head wound itself was sore, but he was already nauseated from the pain in his knee. Damn, she had luscious breasts. Every part of his being, and one part in particular, wanted him to stick out his tongue and lick the skin just under his lips.
Thank heavens for the fischu. It seemed to taunt him and remind him of his need to be honourable at this moment. Meanwhile the throbbing in his knee reminded him he could hardly tumble the girl even if he wanted to. And the new ache in his groin told him he desperately wanted to.
“It has nearly stopped bleeding,” she remarked as another sting made him suck in a breath, filled with her scent of lavender. Involuntarily his hands moved higher. His manhood was straining at the fall of his breeches and she still had no idea what kind of predicament she was in. He brushed the knuckles of his thumbs along the underside of her breast and she gasped. Was it a gasp of pleasure or one of outrage, he was not sure. He moved his thumbs again.
“My lord,” her voice was husky. More desire than protest then. He smiled against her décolletage and pursed his lips, dropping a kiss to the one bit of spare skin her fischu did not cover. She stepped away, biting her lip. “My lord, that is wholly inappropriate,” she said, the censure in her voice somewhat lacking.
“Did you like it though, Gabby?” he asked.
Her throat worked as she swallowed and looked anywhere but at him. “My lord, we are not yet married.”
“No, we are not. But I asked if you liked it. Did you?”
Her cheeks were crimson, almost hiding the strawberry birthmark. She nodded slowly.
“Me too.” He grinned.
My lord!” she chastised.
“Oh don’t ‘my lord’ me, Gabby. You were the one who stuck my face in your bosom. I just…took advantage of it.”
“I did and I am sorry.”
“I am not sorry. It took my mind off the pain in this blasted knee.”
“Well I am afraid my bosom will no longer be acting as a distraction for you, Nicholas.”
“Oh my darling Gabby, even from here it is a delightful distraction.”
About the AuthorEm was born and brought up in the Central Belt of Scotland and still lives there. She was told as a child she had an over active imagination–as if that is a bad thing. She’s traded her dreams of owning her own island, just like George in the Famous Five to hoping to meet her own Mr Darcy one day. But her imagination remains the same.
Secret Confessions: Sydney Housewives, a series of short reads, each one giving us a snapshot of the adventures of a different member of a group of women from the City’s elite, is HOT stuff! The series is penned by some of Australia’s finest writers of erotic romance and erotica and each tale delves into the psyche of each female character, giving a no holds barred account of their sexual predilections and fantasies. Each scorching instalment can be read as a stand alone, but we also get a chance to meet the other characters throughout. I had the pleasure of receiving the first three reads in the series to review: Virginia, Lana and Nella. Read on for my thoughts… Tina ❤
Series Blurb
From the hottest writers in Australia comes a scintillating new series. Enter the world of Sydney’s elite, and find out what goes on behind the doors of the most exclusive addresses in the country…
Meet the Housewives of Sydney. They are wealthy, elegant, poised, and constantly in the public eye. But what goes on behind closed doors, in the private homes and parties where the cameras and paparazzi aren’t welcome? Delve into the most personal details of their relationships, their friendships and their lives. The only question is: can you handle the heat?
Virginia #1, by Rhian Cahill
Blurb
Cool, collected, confident – those who know Virginia in her personal and professional life would never expect to find her in Boyd’s, a bar across town from her circle of friends and socialite world.
But Boyd’s offers her something she can’t get among her rarefied acquaintances: sex. Rough, hard, mind-blowing, anonymous sex.
In her casual clothes, she’s no one important. Incognito, unnoticed by everyone except one: the bartender who knows her drink order – and would like to know a whole lot more.
Oh my oh my! This tale of the ice queen Virginia certainly gets this series off to a great start and introduces some of the other women who will each have a book of their own. I was frantically fanning myself as I read this as I loved the hero Carter. Carter has known Virginia for a couple of years and, as the bartender in her favourite bar, she has confided in him more than most. I ADORED the chemistry between then and also the fact that he does not judge her. He is determined to get her to open up and let him in, not just in a physical sense but in every way. He has his work cut out though as Virginia likes to keep her more intimate playmates at a distance and her secrets (of which she has a major one) close to her chest. Seeing who will prevail while the couple involve themselves in some mind blowing sex made this a fun and entertaining read for me and I am looking forward to reading more about them in future instalments..
Lana #2, by Cate Ellink
Blurb
Lana lives her life by her own rules – and she has very few. What she wants, she goes for, and she very rarely fails. So when a young, handsome waiter at her favourite restaurant catches her eye, she has no hesitation in asking him to escort her home.
But one night of passion opens up exciting new possibilities, and a chance for Lana to enact one of her deepest, most illicit fantasies.
This is a fun and oh so sexy read: Lana is a cougar who knows exactly what she wants and is not afraid to pursue it and the younger men who can meet her desires. I loved the confidence that she has and the fact that she is keen to ensure that the men she enlists to give her pleasure go away as satisfied as she is. However, when she meets Tom, a waiter, she finds that he is willing to go to great lengths to indulge one of her fantasies, and Lana finds a new level of fulfilment in a mind blowing erotic scene – a scene that I for one have fantasised about!
Nella #3, by Cathleen Ross
Blurb
Nella is one hundred percent in control of her life – all aspects of her life. She excels at knowing what everyone needs, and in meeting those needs.
So when it comes to her husband, Michael, and his deepest desires and most fundamental requirements, she is committed, creative, and unswerving in her responsibilities. A strong man needs a strong woman, and Nella’s love is as strong as steel.
Nella likes to control and this control extends to being in charge of meeting the needs of Michael, her husband. This read explores in delicious detail how Michael gains relief from his stressful career as a top executive through Nella’s loving dominance, as described in a wickedly sexy role play scene between them. As someone whose reads often explore the male as the dominant and the woman as the submissive this was a refreshing and somewhat challenging read for me, as it turns what I am used to reading on its head. What came across strongly in the read for me was how well it worked for this couple and how much Nella’s dominance freed him from his executive responsibilities.
Reviewed by Tina Williams
A copy of each of these short stories/novellas was given to me for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
We welcome Tara Tolly’s YA release *FIRST SUN* to our blog today. It looks a fabulous read! Scroll down to read the blurb, check out the teaser and connect with the author. Tina ❤
When the bad boy son of the United States president sets his sights on Eden Warren, she is not impressed. The first son is dubbed “First Disaster” by the public for his questionable antics and Eden has no intention of becoming his latest conquest. What could this former playboy do to convince Eden that he has truly changed his ways, especially when she discovers he’s hiding a government-protected secret that could permanently alter the course of life on Earth?
Tara Tolly lives in Cedar Rapids, Iowa with her husband and four children (two human and two canine) where she spends her days shaping the minds of impressionable fourth graders and her nights and summers shaping the lives of her make-believe characters.
She loves to escape the pressures of the real world by entering into the fictional worlds she creates within the depths of her imagination. When not immersed between the covers of a book (or in reality, the glow of her Nook screen) or typing away on her computer, she loves spending time with her family, running, and participating in other creative endeavors such as photography, crafting, and baking.
FIRST SUN is her first YA novel and is forthcoming in September 2014 by Fire & Ice YA.
Sidney has a rough life. Her mom is incredibly abusive both mentally and physically. One day, she’s awarded the escape she’s always wanted and thrust into a world she barely understands. Each day is a struggle to feel human and not terrified of everything around her.
Sidney has rules. Routines. Structure. It’s the only way she can cope
When a handsome, yet mysterious stranger inserts himself into her life, Sidney begins to come apart at the seams. She’s having trouble sticking to her habits and it’s threatening to shred any hope of a normal life to pieces. Will this stranger help her in ways no other person can, or will things get worse for her?
He comes with his own set of problems and secrets he’s unwilling to share. Will they work together through the mess of their pasts or will they get caught up enabling each other? Will their toxic relationship ultimately be destined for demise?
My Review
I so loved this book, which I found to be such an absorbing, romantic and original read! Apartment 2B chronicles the heroine’s journey from abject cruelty and unimaginable abuse to healing and true love, drawing me in right from the start. It also has a brilliant plot twist to it, which is expertly done and took me completely by surprise!
The abuse that Sidney undergoes at the hands of her own mother is truly horrific and has left her physically and emotionally scarred. I applauded her as she seeks to make a life for herself after her mother’s unexpected death. She has serious issues to contend with arising from her abuse, but is fortunate to find a friend in Tina, a counsellor, who gives her valuable support. The rules and routines that she adopts to cope with life are truly heart breaking. Yet the day she meets a handsome and mysterious young man living in the apartment next to her, her life changes forever…….
The hero Liam is also a conflicted character. They are mutually drawn to each other and he respects Sidney’s physical boundaries that she has put in place. Their relationship and budding romance is sweet, erotic and touching and he is very protective of her. Yet there is a sense to the reader that there is more to Liam than meets the eye and he is unwilling to volunteer what appears to be tearing him apart. I was absolutely gobsmacked when his secrets were revealed and the direction this book took – the plot twist is really something special!
Sidney is fragile – can she cope with what is revealed? I feared for her throughout the book but was more than satisfied with the outcome. If you are intrigued you will have to read Room 2B and see for yourself. I will say though that I found this to be one of the most beguiling and original reads this year.
If you believe in fate, the magic of love and redemption you will love this book too!
A BIG welcome today to Beckie Stevenson’s forthcoming release Noah and Me! Check out the super cover and read an excerpt (it’s one of the most intriguing excerpts I have read this year!) There is also a super giveaway where you could win an ARC of the book. Tina 🙂
RELEASE DATE: 15th December 2014
“So you fix broken hearts, do you?” I ask. “Seems a little ironic.”
Noah Carter is one of the best cardiothoracic doctors in the country. He’s incredibly intelligent, funny, kind and he’s a beast in the bedroom. He has scars that drizzle down his chest and painful memories of an unforgettable night that plague his every waking hour.
Seven years ago, Noah stumbled upon me at the side of a grave and saved me in one of the most compassionate ways another human being can save another. I will always love him for that. Always.
He loved me in a way that no man has ever loved me since, and I gave him everything. I gave him it all until my secrets and lies tore us apart, forcing me to shatter his heart into a thousand little pieces.
Seven years ago he loved me, but now he hates me. And I hate that he hates me. Leaving Noah is my biggest regret in life – and I have a lot of things that I regret. A lot.
I’m Ariel Miller and this is the story of Noah and Me.
I glance around the corner of the small building and spot a woman who isn’t dressed like a smart teacher. She’s wearing white stilettoes and a tiny little black dress that just about coversher backside. Her breasts, which are definitely fake, protrude out from the scoop neckline of the dress. Her chocolate-coloured hair is poker straight and falls to her shoulder blades. I hear her giggling. I see her hand shoot out to touch a glistening, tanned and extremely toned forearm.
“That’s Candy,” whispers Ben.
“What does she do?” I ask. She arches her back and pushes her breasts out even further than they were before.
“She’s a Lawyer,” he tells me. “They call her the black widow.”
I glance at Ben and realise he’s not joking. I look back at Candy and hear her giggle again, watching as she flicks her hair over her shoulder. “Does she eat men after she’s slept with them?”
“No,” he says, shaking his head. “She eats them after she’s done with them in court instead.”
More like she hypnotises them with her breasts and hair flicking, I think. “I see,” I say.
“Her tongue is evil,” he says before adding, “and not in a good way.”
I grin at him.
“Anyway,” he says, pulling on my elbow, “we should go and say hello to the birthday boy.”
I take a step forward and then the earth stops moving as all of the blood in my body rushes to my ears. I can hear the beat of my own heart as it bangs against my chest. The birthday boy’s blue eyes collide with mine and they’re slowly turning to hard stone in front of me. He steps away from the wall, roughly pushing Candy off him, and marches towards me.
I can’t take my eyes off him. How can someone who is beyond beautiful look so ugly at the same time? His light brown hair is styled perfectly on his head as if he’s just got out of bed. Or maybe he has, if Candy’s performance was anything to go by. His pale, crystal-blue eyes display nothing of the thoughts that I have no doubt are obviously running through his mind. He’s wearing a dark grey shirt and black trousers. Even with his clothes on, I can tell that there’s a wall of pure muscle hiding underneath them. I see a faint smattering of chest hair poking out from the top of his shirt where his top button is undone. His face is tanned and freshly shaven.
“You!” he says, his deep voice wrapping around me like a warm blanket. His gaze shifts to my neck like lightning. His eyes linger for a fraction of a second on my necklace and I see a hint of astonishment flash across his face. Then it’s gone, replaced by the cold, screwed-up face that he had before.
I open my mouth but nothing comes out. Every single hair on my skin stands on end as his angry breath washes over my face. Air leaves my lungs and doesn’t come back in. How the fuck is he here? Of all the places in the entire world, how is he here?
I finally realise he’s still towering over me, looking as if he wants to strangle me. I take a deep breath. I can’t do this.
“Erm, do you two know each other?” asks Ben.
Ignoring Ben, I continue to stare at him. He stares at me. What could we possibly say to each other that would make any of it okay? I can’t be here. I can’t be near him. I need to leave.
“No,” he hisses, as his eyes trail all over me.
Liar.
“I don’t know who this girl is,” he says.
I know it’s wrong to feel hurt that he called me a girl, but I do. I don’t want him looking at me like that either. Not when I feel so shitty about what I’m wearing. I wish I could cover myself up, but I don’t have enough clothes on to even start.
Ben blinks, looking confused. “Noah, this is Ariel. Ariel, this is the birthday boy, Noah.”
This isn’t Noah. This is a stranger that doesn’t know me anymore.
“I’m going,” I announce, tearing my gaze away from Noah. I look at Ben and feel myself beginning to panic. “Erm, I have to go.”
“You have to?” Ben questions.
I nod quickly and start to back away from them. “I have to go. Right now. I have a horrible headache. Here,” I say, pushing my glass into Ben’s hand, “take this. And I’m sorry.”
“Ariel,” Ben calls as I turn to leave.
“Let her go,” Noah says. “She wasn’t invited and she’s not welcome.”
AUTHOR BIO:
Beckie’s real name is Rebecca, but she get’s called (and answers to) any of the following…Beckie, Bek, Becca, Rebecca, Pip, Pippy or Stevo. Beckie is the author of ‘Sorrow Woods,’ the ‘Existing’ series and ‘Noah and Me.’
She is due to publish more YA and NA novels in 2015/16.
She lives in Staffordshire, England, with her partner and two children. Beckie likes putting music on in the house and dancing around like a mad woman. When she isn’t playing with her children, doing housework, dancing around the house like a mad woman, walking, cycling reading or writing, then she can be found working in an investment bank. Or sleeping.
Laura Dantonville is shocked to learn her strange genetic mutation, is linked to a dark family secret—a centuries-old curse that turned her Roman ancestor into a vampire. Now that she has come of age, she is the key to breaking that curse. But she’s also the prey of rogue vampires who inhabit the city’s frightening and violent underworld, as her blood gives them the ability to daywalk. For her protection she’s assigned a guardian—the handsome, sexy and dangerous Alec Munro.
Former military doctor and current leader of the Brethren, Alec Munro has no intention of being responsible for Laura. After all, it was her damned family who was response ble for his untimely death and subsequent transformation. He owes them nothing, yet he also knows his own fated role in breaking the curse, and the unthinkable consequences should he not accept.
To the Brethren, the ending of the curse spells disaster. Among a powerful few malice grows…
I’m a fifty-something-young woman who lives on the Central Coast, an hour’s drive north of Sydney in Australia. My little house is surrounded by bushland, possums and seed-dropping Rosellas on one side, and waterways on the other. I moved out of the big city a few years ago, and the only thing I miss about it are the quaint shops and cafes. But I’ve gained fresh air and a home with front and backyards–with a garden swing–and wooded hillside views.
Before becoming a writer, I was a practicing archaeologist, and was fortunate enough to have worked on some amazing digs around the world. After several years in the field I was drawn to teaching and ended up as Head of History in a local high school. While there I took the opportunity to take my students overseas to visit various archaeological sites in Europe and Britain. It was a fabulous way to combine my love of history with travel, and share it with others. On one tour, in Italy, I managed to indulge my other passion – gelato ice cream. We renamed it The Gelato Crawl of Italy!
I’ve always been a storyteller, but it wasn’t until five years ago that I seriously ventured into writing. The result was Bloodgifted. In 2011 it was shortlisted in the Atlas Award and came fourth. In 2012 it was listed among the top ten in the Choclit Search for an Aussie Star Competition. In 2013, I was offered a publishing contract but declined in favour of going indie. I liked the idea of being in charge of my own creation.
Bloodgifted is just the start of a four-part series I’ve entitled, The Dantonville Legacy. Book 2, Bloodpledge, was released four months ago, and Book 3, Blood Vault, is due for release June 2015. Later I intend writing individual books on the other characters in the series, for they all have their own story.
With his smart mouth, dirty talking, and possessive behavior, Sebastian Brand has me hooked in the most shameless way. I’m obsessed with him. However, now that I’ve escaped the mental hospital, he seeks to control my every move.
The overwhelming aloofness in his attitude and the darkness in his mind tells me there is more to this man than sheer dominance. Depravity is his playground and pain is a necessary evil.
Keeping me away was his first instinct.
Capturing me was his second.
Claimed by a man with the exterior of an angel and the mind of a brute, I will do anything to unveil his secrets and face my own demons.
A body in exchange for freedom. A heart in exchange for truth.
Life is never a given. Only a certain death.
This is Volume 1 in the Delirious Series, which contains 3 volumes and a prequel. This book is a full-length novel. These books should be read in order.
WARNING: This book contains very disturbing situations, strong language, drugs and alcohol, dubious consent, and graphic violence. Contains a cliffhanger that will make your eyes pop.
Clarissa Wild is the USA Today Bestselling author of FIERCE, a college romance series, but she’s best known for the dark Romance novel Mr. X. She is also a writer of erotic romance such as the Blissful Series, The Billionaire’s Bet series, the Doing It Series and the Enflamed Series. She is an avid reader and writer of sexy stories about hot men and feisty women. Her other loves include her furry cat friend and learning about different cultures. In her free time she enjoys watching all sorts of movies, reading tons of books and cooking her favorite meals.
After reading many horrors and crime thrillers, I fancied a change and have been reading chick-lits/romantic comedies for a more uplifting feel. Yesterday I reviewed C.J. Pinard’s ‘Boots Beneath My Bed (Miranda’s Story)‘, book 3 of her Duty & Desire series, which was an absolute pleasure to read and a great deal of fun.
And carrying on that chick-lit feel for this weekend I have Milly Johnson’s ‘An Autumn Crush‘, which I thought was just perfect to fit in before the end of November due to it’s seasonal title.
Title: An Autumn Crush
Author: Milly Johnson
Genre: Chick-lit, contemporary romantic comedy
Release: 2011
Publishers: Simon & Schuster Ltd
Length: 417 pages
Blurb: In the heart of the windy season, four friends are about to get swept off their feet…
Newly single after a bruising divorce, Juliet Miller moves into a place of her own and advertises for a flatmate, little believing that, in her mid-thirties, she’ll find anyone suitable. Then, just as she’s about to give up hope, along comes self-employed copywriter Floz, and the two women hit it off straight away.
When Juliet’s gentle giant of a twin brother, Guy, meets Floz, he falls head over heels. But, as hard as he tries to charm her, his foot seems to be permanently in his mouth. Meanwhile, Guy’s best friend Steve has always had a secret crush on Juliet – one which could not be more unrequited if it tried…
As Floz and Juliet’s friendship deepens, and Floz becomes a part of the Miller family, can Guy turn her affection for them into something more – into love for him? And what will happen to Steve’s heart when Juliet eventually catches the eye of Piers – the man of her dreams?
REVIEW
An Autumn Crush is a real fun, girly read with humour that put me in the mindset of Helen Fielding’s ‘Bridget Jones’. There are some real laugh-out-loud moments that make this a refreshing, feel-good read, although there are also some scenes that are a little more sombre which make for a complete storyline.
Beginning in late Summer, working it’s way through to November, it captures the season perfectly. And whilst there is a clear change in season, there are also some major changes happening in the lives of these characters. Juliet has recently moved into her new place and is seeking the perfect flatmate (who she finds in Floz), Floz has an ‘old flame’ contact her after eighteen months of nothing – not even a reason for ending his contact, Guy is about to buy his own restaurant and Guy’s best friend, Steve, is hoping for some attention from across the Atlantic with his professional wrestling.
From the offset, An Autumn Crush very much follows Juliet and how she seeks the perfect flatmate, which her friend Coco helps with. Although suffering from a divorce and adjusting to her new place, Juliet seems to be coping well and it is clear that she is fondly thought of by her family and her friend. The reader also has an insight into Steve’s feelings for her, but to Juliet he was always no good, despite him helping her brother, Guy, in his time of need. Instead, Juliet’s mind has focused on her employer, Piers, who is very attractive, sophisticated and wealthy, and most probably in demand from every woman who crosses his path!
Guy has had his fair share of dark moments, which he is trying to leave behind him. But when he first sets eyes on his sisters new flatmate, as well as falling head over heels for her she does resemble a person from his past that he is trying to move on from. He cannot get Floz out of his mind and works himself up so much that every time he sees her he makes a fool out of himself. His nervousness, awkwardness and mix up of words creates a great deal of the fun, that only Steve is really aware of (and, of course, the reader).
Floz is my favourite character as she has a much more upsetting current situation than the others, and at times it felt like she was the main focus of the novel, even though Juliet appears to be initially. Floz has no idea of Guy’s affections towards her, and feels that he dislikes her as he is always short and sharp with her and then disappears. But her mind is also very focused on a secret she doesn’t share with the others: she has been in touch with an old online friend/love interest from Canada, and although it was their dream once to meet – they never did. Now back in touch, they exchange e-mails from a different perspective, but not all is as it seems, and Floz is most likely going to be very hurt.
The dialogue between the characters is strong and keeps momentum with the humour and pace. And with references to modern day celebrities, such as Simon Cowell and Louie Spence, it adds realism so that the reader can easily identify with the characters and their conversations. In addition to this, there are also many awkward moments, especially with Guy, which displays his flaws, making him more human and believable. These moments create even more humour.
One of my favourite aspects of the story is that each character has their own challenges, as opposed to just one main character. They have all had bad experiences, and sometimes use these to judge each other. They then end up at times not seeing eye to eye, and yet not knowing the full picture of the others’ actions or behaviour. There are many instances of ‘will they/won’t they’ and this adds to the suspense and excitement.
Any chick-lit or romantic comedy fan above 15yrs will love this novel. It is an enjoyable read that will leave you feeling good. It has certainly made me want to read more of Milly Johnson’s books!
Although a stand alone novel, An Autumn Crush, is one of four ‘seasonal’ novels from Milly Johnson. The other three being A Spring Affair, A Summer Fling, and A Winter Flame.
Author: C.L. Scholey
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