Snippet Sunday - Not a Dragon's Standard Virgin - True Dilemma

 

Welcome to the Snippet Sunday! Thank you so much for visiting. I'm sorry I didn't get to your blogs last week. I had a really sick kid and spent the week helping her keep food down. :( If you choose to comment today, I really appreciate it. Most of these snippets are unedited, works in progress, and while my snippets aren't consecutive, they are in order within the story. You can read last week's snippet HERE.

Today, I'm offering a snippet from my new release out in TWO DAYS entitled Not a Dragon's Standard Virgin. Woohoo! I'm so excited to get this one out to all of you. In this snippet, Isabelle Andersen is worried she'll be the next dragon sacrifice, but she's never just stood by and let others decide her fate, even in 1547 Scotland.

Isabelle had no intention of dying for the village, especially now with her mother gone. She may not have agreed to how women should behave, but she certainly didn’t want to die for her opinion. Sometimes she hated her village, but it was home and what she knew best. Her sister remained at the tavern while she waited for Thomas to gather his bride price, and Isabelle loved her. Sarah was the only one in the family besides their mother who’d accepted Isabelle for herself.

So, if I don’t wish to die in the Virgin Sacrifice, I shall have to lose my virginity.

Isabelle looked out onto the Loch and sent a prayer out to her mother in the wind.

“Forgive me, Mama. I know you wanted me to be a good girl, but I just can’t let myself die for a village that scorns me. I would rather be a ruined woman alive than a good virgin girl dead.”

What would you do to escape someone's planned fate for you? ;) There are several great authors on the Weekend Writing Warrior list and in the Snippet Sunday Facebook group. A few of my favorites are Sarah Ballance, Charmaine Gordon, Goran Zidar, Karla Doyle, and A.S. Fenichel.

If you're interested in Not a Dragon's Standard Virgin, here is the cover and blurb:

Sacrificial virgins are so sixteenth century, but unless Isabelle finds a man to take her innocence, she’ll likely be next.

For Isabelle Andersen, being a virgin in a dragon-plagued Scottish village is dangerous. Potentially the next dragon sacrifice, Isabelle’s only solution is to lose her innocence, and fast. All she needs is one handsome stranger she can coax into bed, but Lochmore Cott doesn’t get much in the way of visitors.

Jonarrion Swiftwind has sworn off virgins. The last time he took one to his bed, his family paid the price for his lust at the hands of her demon-possessed father. He’s made it his mission to destroy all demons. Nothing distracts him from killing this demon until lovely Isabelle offers him tea. And her virginity.

Just one night of passion makes Jon realize he doesn’t want to let the independent beauty go. But will Isabelle accept him when she discovers the only real dragon in her village… is him?

Thank you all for stopping by and happy reading! :)

#ThursThreads - Week 68 - Winners

 

Week 68 of #ThursThreads had some terrific tales! Thanks to all who came to write yesterday. I'm honored to see all of the returning writers and read your stories. Thank you for coming back again and again to write. And I'm delighted to see new writers stopping by. Great thanks go to Clair de Lune for reading the stories.

Entries:

• Theresa Breaux | @theresabreaux
• Rebecca Brennan | @bexbrennan
• Silver James | @SilverJames_
• Lizzie Koch | @Lizzie_Loodles
• Sandra Bunino | @SandraBunino
• Susan Hayes | @capricia13
• Siobhan Muir | @SiobhanMuir
• Veronica Jordan | @RevolutionaryVJ
• Doris O'Connor | @mamaD8
• Kelly Heinen | @Aightball
• S.J. Maylee | @SJMaylee
• Mark Ethridge | @LurchMunster

Clair says: I didn't think this was going to be easy and it wasn't. I read all the stories a few times then went with the one that appealed most to me, then I did  the same with the honorable mentions. I think the standard of writing was high and want to congratulate all those who took part. I really enjoyed reading your stories as I get so little time to read at the moment.

Winners Announcement:

Honorable Mentions

 

Sandra Bunino | @SandraBunino

Clair says: I liked this from the start too. Her turmoil and determination not to give in then the surrender in the final line. The hints about their past and his nature were well done.

Susan Hayes | @capricia13
Clair says: Loved this idea and can see it happening. Nightmare scenario. No dialogue but I assume thhat was deliberate and very effective in conveying the anonymity of the whole process.

Veronica Jordan | @RevolutionaryVJ
Clair says: There was a good mix of dialogue and exposition. I liked the way the dress was introduced and the way a scent was used to evoke a scene. Nice ending too.

Week 68 Winner

Doris O'Connor | @mamaD8

Clair says: Ever since I read Guy de Maupassant at school I have loved a story with a surprise ending "a sting in the tail" as it's called. Doris O'Connor's story captured my interest right from the start. I love Sci Fi too and this idea intrigued me. The build up of tension was well done and maintained until the final line... Great story. I enjoyed it.

"You have got to be kidding me. I'm not going into that thing."

The mere thought of having to enter that clanging box made her hyperventilate. The room spun and her hands grasped the first firm object she could find.

"Easy there, I've got you."

The deep masculine voice belonged to the broad chest she was holding onto. The owner of that voice smiled down on her, when she managed to lift her head to study her rescuer. This time Eliza had a hard time drawing air into her lungs for the man watching her from under hooded eyes was one specimen of wet dream inducing hunk. Heat flooded her cheeks, and she inwardly cursed her inherent diabolic timing.

Here she was about to climb into the Sizeomatron to be fitted with the perfect sex-android, and she had to encounter the most desirable man she had ever laid eyes on.

"Miss, it's standard procedure." The disembodied voice of the technician overseeing her Android fitting broke through the fog in her lust for brains head. "We need to take exact internal measurements, to program your Orgasmatron to fit for maximum pleasure penetration. The easiest way to achieve that is with an all over body scan. This was all explained in the brochure."

Eliza groaned and wished the ground to swallow her up.

"Do we have to do this in front of an audience?"

She smiled at the man still holding her, and the technician laughed.

"We do, cause that's your android."

Congratulations Doris, Sandra, Susan, and Veronica! Don't forget to claim your badges and display them with pride. You certainly earned it! :)

Pass on the great news on Twitter, Facebook, Google Plus, shiny mirrors, Morse Code, and signal flags. Check out all the stories here. Thanks for stopping by and happy reading! :)

#ThursThreads - The Challenge That Ties Tales Together - Week 68

 

Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked, and #ThursThreads, the Challenge that Ties Tales Together. Let's get started. It's Thursday again, so what should you be doing? Writing #flashfiction, that's what! Welcome to Week 68 of #ThursThreads, the challenge that ties tales together. Need the rules? Read on!

Here's how it works:

• The prompt is a line from the previous week's winning tale.
• The prompt can appear ANYWHERE in your story and is included in your word count.

Rules to the Game:

• This is a Flash Fiction challenge, which means your story must be a minimum of 100 words, maximum of 250.
• Incorporate the prompt as written anywhere into your story (included in your word count).
• Post your story in the comments section of this post
• Include your word count (or be excluded from judging)
• Include your Twitter handle or email (so we know how to find you)
• The challenge is open 7 AM to 7 PM Pacific Time
• The winner will be announced on Friday, depending on how early the judge gets up. ;)

How it benefits you:

• You get a nifty cool badge to display on your blog or site (because we're all about promotion - you know you are!)
• You get instant recognition of your writing prowess on this blog!
• Your writing colleagues shall announce and proclaim your greatness on Facebook, Twitter, and Google Plus

Our Judge for Week 68:

Erotic romance author, dragon lover, and Scotswoman, Clair de Lune.

Clair on Facebook

Clair on Twitter

So now your #ThursThreads Challenge, tying tales together.

The Prompt:

“It’s standard procedure.”

All stories written herein are the property (both intellectual and physical) of the authors. Now, away with you, Flash Fiction Fanatics, and show us your #ThursThreads. Good luck! :)

Snippet Sunday - A Hell Hound's Fire - Pillow Talk

 

Welcome to the Snippet Sunday! Thank you so much for visiting. I'm attending the Las Vegas Highland Games today, so I will have to visit your blogs upon the morrow. If you choose to comment, I really appreciate it. Most of these snippets are unedited, works in progress, and while my snippets aren't consecutive, they are in order within the story. You can read last week's snippet HERE.

Today, I'm offering another snippet from my paranormal romance novella AVAILABLE NOW entitled A Hell Hound's Fire. Best part? It's free, on Amazon, Smashwords, All Romance Ebooks, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks! :D In this snippet, Alex and Sarah are sitting on the couch and she's exhausted. Alex has no problem being a pillow. This is in Alex's POV.

    “I suspect demons make it hard to unwind, but I think you’ll be able to get some good sleep tonight.” He shifted his body until his back wedged between the armrest and the upright cushions. “Lay your head on my chest and get some sleep. I’m not going anywhere.”

    Sarah gave him a long look. “You want me where?”

    Alex patted his chest. “Lay your head here, your hips here."

    “You want me…between your legs?”

    Hell yeah, I want you between my legs, hot and snarling and begging for more.

How many want to get between his legs? Raise your hands, now. ;) There are several great authors on the Weekend Writing Warrior list and in the Snippet Sunday Facebook group. A few of my favorites are Sarah Ballance, Joyce Scarbrough, Goran Zidar, SJ Maylee, and A.S. Fenichel.

If you're interested in A Hell Hound's fire, here is the cover and blurb:

Love can be found in the most unlikely places, even the heart of a Hell Hound.

Alex MacLaren figures he'll never find love again after his mate dies. As one of the rare Hell Hound werewolves, his chances are slim to none. And slim went home. When the local Morukai shaman calls on him to protect a lovely Irish werewolf and her young son from demons, he can't help but take the job.

Sarah Flanagan is desperate to save her son Liam from the deadly monster trailing them, but she's out of options and places to hide. She lost her mate the last time she encountered a demon, and with Liam depending on her, the stakes are far higher this time. After meeting Alex, she's not sure about the Hell Hound, but she’s no fool. He’s their best hope for survival... and hers for another chance at love.

Thank you to everyone who helped make it free on Amazon. It took all your efforts and I greatly appreciate it. :D

Thank you all for stopping by and happy reading! :)

#ThursThreads - Week 67 - Winners

Week 67 of #ThursThreads had some terrific tales! Thanks to all who came to write yesterday. I'm honored to see all of the returning writers and read your stories. Thank you for coming back again and again to write. And I'm delighted to see new writers stopping by. Great thanks go to Miranda Kate for reading the stories.

Entries:

• Kimberly Gould | @Kimmydonn
• The Imaginator | @theimaginator20
• Mark Ethridge | @LurchMunster
• Shyla Colt | @ShylaColt
• Ryan Derham | @Ryan_Derham
• Susan Hayes | @capricia13
• Doris O'Connor | @mamaD8
• Lizzie Koch | @Lizzie_Loodles
• Theresa Breaux | @theresabreaux
• Veronica Jordan | @RevolutionaryVJ

Winners Announcement:

Honorable Mentions

 

Mark Ethridge | @LurchMunster

Miranda says: Another complete story, a glimpse into the initiation of a new father. I loved that his dad told him it was a way to show that he loved his wife! With great realistic dialogue that flowed really well.

Doris O'Connor | @mamaD8
Miranda says: This piece made me laugh, although I was a little daunted on her behalf. Very nicely done, and very funny.

Lizzie Koch | @Lizzie_Loodles
Miranda says: This was a nice tight piece, with great atmosphere. There was a sense of 'is he catching someone, or is he the predator', so the ending wasn't a surprise, but I liked it.

Week 67 Winner

Susan Hayes | @capricia13

Miranda says: The story was complete for a flash piece, giving us everything, but contained so much in it that I wanted to know more. It had a unique sci-fi storyline too, which intrigued me. I wanted to know, not only what had happened, but what life was like inside the fortified areas too. Well written and concise, and I found myself reading more than once to try and glean more each time. Would definitely read this as a novel!

ID Please

“You must have been tagged at some point ma’am. It’s standard procedure.” The clerk was looking at me like I’d spawned two new heads.

“I’m telling you I’ve never been here before. I live out there.” I waved back towards the the line of jagged red rock that rose up out of the shattered ground, marking the beginning of the Dead Zone.
“No one lives out there. So please stop being difficult and tell me where you were last assigned living quarters and let me scan your tag.”

“Son, I’m telling you, I’ve never been tagged. Never been to a Fort until today.” Fortified Areas they called them. I called ‘em prisons. The walls and gates might keep the danger out, but they kept the living firmly trapped under the government’s boot heel. I had my share of prison in the before times, I had no desire to go back. But Jessica needed me, so here I was, arguing with an idiot to try to gain entry to a place I had no desire to be.

“You’ve never been to a Fortified Area?”

“Not even once.” I grinned and tugged at my white hair. “Thought I should probably do it once before I die, check it off the bucket list.”

“Uh…right.” Kid had no idea what a bucket list was. He’d been born after the Cataclysm, all he’d know is what the government funded schools had spoon fed into head. It was going to be a long, damned day.

Congratulations THREE TIME WINNER Susan, Mark, Doris, and Lizzie! Don't forget to claim your badges and display them with pride. You certainly earned it! :)

Pass on the great news on Twitter, Facebook, Google Plus, shiny mirrors, Morse Code, and signal flags. Check out all the stories here. Thanks for stopping by and happy reading! :)

#ThursThreads - The Challenge That Ties Tales Together - Week 67

 

Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked, and #ThursThreads, the Challenge that Ties Tales Together. Let's get started. It's Thursday again, so what should you be doing? Writing #flashfiction, that's what! Welcome to Week 67 of #ThursThreads, the challenge that ties tales together. Need the rules? Read on!

Here's how it works:

• The prompt is a line from the previous week's winning tale.
• The prompt can appear ANYWHERE in your story and is included in your word count.

Rules to the Game:

• This is a Flash Fiction challenge, which means your story must be a minimum of 100 words, maximum of 250.
• Incorporate the prompt as written anywhere into your story (included in your word count).
• Post your story in the comments section of this post
• Include your word count (or be excluded from judging)
• Include your Twitter handle or email (so we know how to find you)
• The challenge is open 7 AM to 7 PM Pacific Time
• The winner will be announced on Friday, depending on how early the judge gets up. ;)

How it benefits you:

• You get a nifty cool badge to display on your blog or site (because we're all about promotion - you know you are!)
• You get instant recognition of your writing prowess on this blog!
• Your writing colleagues shall announce and proclaim your greatness on Facebook, Twitter, and Google Plus

Our Judge for Week 67:

The cat lover, winch operator, and Rune stones reader, Miranda Kate.

Miranda on Facebook

Miranda on Twitter

So now your #ThursThreads Challenge, tying tales together.

The Prompt:

“Not even once.”

All stories written herein are the property (both intellectual and physical) of the authors. Now, away with you, Flash Fiction Fanatics, and show us your #ThursThreads. Good luck! :)

Evernight's Book Boyfriend Blog Hop and Giveaway

Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for the Book Boyfriend Blog Hop! Book Boyfriends...

Can be strong and sexy, dark and dangerous, rebellious and reckless or cute and quirky. We love to fall in love with these irresistible heroes and Evernight Publishing has them all!

The authors of Evernight invite you to a Speed Date challenge. Their cowboys, Doms, detectives, millionaires, royalty, vampires, soldiers, shifters, even steam-powered heroes are waiting to meet you on each author website. 76 heroes in 7 days. Are you up for the challenge?

Pull up a chair and get to know every single one. I’d love to introduce you to Fredrick MacGregor, a man on a mission, and a vampire full of devotion...

Fredrick shrugged out of his leather trench coat and hung it on the peg beside the booth before settling into the creaking leather. Despite the many disappointments he'd experienced, excitement pounded through his veins. Tonight could be the night. She could be here. He'd been searching for decades for the one woman who embodied the Goddess. The one woman he'd protect against all enemies and dangers.

As soon as he rose for the evening he'd received hints of her and a strong urge to come to this restaurant tonight. He'd cleared his schedule, purchased a small bouquet of three roses, and drove to town. The roses lay before him on the table, two red and one white, for love and pure devotion. Now all he had to do was wait and she'd show. He knew it.

Fredrick shifted his gaze around the room, scenting the interest of the women already there. A few threw him coy smiles and a wink or two, much to their dates' dismay, but he ignored them. His lady, the Goddess's Avatar, hadn't arrived yet.

Fredrick sighed and sat back. Normally, he had great patience, but the anticipation rode him too hard tonight, along with his blood lust. He'd need to feed if she didn't arrive soon. She'll be here and I'll see her face clearly for the first time. The lady he'd love forever. The lady he'd protect with his life. The lady who'd hold his heart sacred. All he had to do was wait.

He threw his ponytail over his shoulder and watched the door. The scents of spring flowers mixed with the roses as the door swung open and she stepped through...

HER DEVOTED VAMPIRE

Did you get your roses? ;)

So guess what else is up for grabs?

• One lucky hopper will win a KINDLE PAPERWHITE eREADER sponsored by Evernight Publishing.
• Every book blogger/reviewer site is giving away one free eBook from Evernight (winner’s choice of any eBook from Evernight Publishing’s website).
• Plus, each author offers their own unique prize! So visit each blog hop stop for a host of fabulous prizes to win.

How to enter?

Answer this question: What do you love most about a Book Boyfriend?

I'm giving away a copy of Her Devoted Vampire to one lucky commenter. Be sure to leave the answer and your email address in the comments section below to be eligible to win a prize. You must be 18 years or older and please void where prohibited. My giveaway is open internationally and you have until Midnight, April 21st Pacific US time to enter. 

Keep hopping to the next author or blogger. After you’ve met each hero click here to vote for your favorite book boyfriend. You’ll earn an extra grand prize entry!

You’re one step closer to meeting your next Book Boyfriend...

Snippet Sunday - A Hell Hound's Fire - Perfect Timing

 

Welcome to the Snippet Sunday! Thank you so much for visiting. If you choose to comment, I really appreciate it. Most of these snippets are unedited, works in progress, and while my snippets aren't consecutive, they are in order within the story. You can read last week's snippet HERE.

Today, I'm offering another snippet from my paranormal romance AVAILABLE NOW entitled A Hell Hound's Fire. Best part? It's free, both on Smashwords and All Romance Ebooks! :D In this snippet, Sarah has gone upstairs to tuck in her son and Alex remembered the bed had no sheets. He came to help make the bed and stopped to listen to her read to Liam. However his mind is going elsewhere. This is in Alex's POV.

He had to get his head back in the game and focus on the threat, not on the luscious female in the next room. She’d experienced enough difficulty already. The last thing she needed was some horny male backing her against the wall and kissing the hell out of her.

The idea made his cock swell.

Shit, get downstairs before she sees you, fool.

Alex lurched off the wall and shoved the sheets back in the closet. Then he bolted for the stairs, damn near tripping on the way down.

Sarah’s voice floated after him, “Your mountain needs moving, so get on your way.”

I’m going, I’m going.

Timing is everything, yes? ;) There are several great authors on the Weekend Writing Warrior list and in the Snippet Sunday Facebook group. A few of my favorites are Sarah Ballance, Charmaine Gordon, Goran Zidar, Karla Doyle, and A.S. Fenichel.

If you're interested in A Hell Hound's fire, here is the cover and blurb:

Love can be found in the most unlikely places, even the heart of a Hell Hound.

Alex MacLaren figures he'll never find love again after his mate dies. As one of the rare Hell Hound werewolves, his chances are slim to none. And slim went home. When the local Morukai shaman calls on him to protect a lovely Irish werewolf and her young son from demons, he can't help but take the job.

Sarah Flanagan is desperate to save her son Liam from the deadly monster trailing them, but she's out of options and places to hide. She lost her mate the last time she encountered a demon, and with Liam depending on her, the stakes are far higher this time. After meeting Alex, she's not sure about the Hell Hound, but she’s no fool. He’s their best hope for survival... and hers for another chance at love.

You can also find this on Amazon, but it's not free. If you'd like to help me get them to price match, please go to the Amazon page and click on the like "tell us about a lower price." Just put in the All Romance Ebooks URL and hopefully they will get the hint soon.

Thank you all for stopping by and happy reading! :)

#ThursThreads - Week 66 - Winners

 

Week 66 of #ThursThreads had some terrific tales! Thanks to all who came to write yesterday. I'm honored to see all of the returning writers and read your stories. Thank you for coming back again and again to write. And I'm delighted to see new writers stopping by. Great thanks go to Cara Michaels for reading the stories.

Entries:

• Cara Michaels | @caramichaels
• Sheilagh Lee | @SweetSheil
• Nanette Pitts | @nanettePITTS
• Mark Ethridge | @LurchMunster
• Charles W Jones | @ChuckWesJ
• Simon Abernathy
• Siobhan Muir | @SiobhanMuir
• Sandra Bunino | @SandraBunino
• David A Ludwig | @DavidALudwig
• Kelly Heinen | @Aightball
• Grace Black | @blackinkpinkdsk

Cara says: Overall, I was a bit disappointed to see so many writers take the YA teen angst route with the prompt. I confess I’d hoped to see folks stretch the idea in new directions and uses. Also, I can’t stress enough, though this is flash fiction and just a fun moment of writing for some, it’s no time to be a lazy writer. Punctuation, spelling, tense, and POV errors left a lot of folks out of the running in just a sentence or two. Flash fiction is a wonderful opportunity to strengthen your writing… use it wisely!

Winners Announcement:

Honorable Mentions

 

Mark Ethridge | @LurchMunster

Cara says: Mark, you gave another fun take on the teen theme. Give me a little more action (and interaction) over exposition, rework some of the passive language, and this is a winner. The mating rituals of your future society make me weep for the world. ;)

Week 66 Winner

Simon Abernathy

Cara says: Doc, your story made me LAUGH. OUT. LOUD. What a fun take on teen angst across species. There is a heavy reliance on passive language (was / that), but the story is well told and full of humorous turns. The details of your world made the story stand out. I wish all the guys “phosphored” when I walked by!

TALE WAS REMOVED FOR PERSONAL REASONS

Congratulations Simon and Mark! Don't forget to claim your badges and display them with pride. You certainly earned it! :)

Pass on the great news on Twitter, Facebook, Google Plus, shiny mirrors, Morse Code, and signal flags. Check out all the stories here. Thanks for stopping by and happy reading! :)

#ThursThreads - The Challenge That Ties Tales Together - Week 66

 

Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked, and #ThursThreads, the Challenge that Ties Tales Together. Let's get started. It's Thursday again, so what should you be doing? Writing #flashfiction, that's what! Welcome to Week 66 of #ThursThreads, the challenge that ties tales together. Need the rules? Read on!

Here's how it works:

• The prompt is a line from the previous week's winning tale.
• The prompt can appear ANYWHERE in your story and is included in your word count.

Rules to the Game:

• This is a Flash Fiction challenge, which means your story must be a minimum of 100 words, maximum of 250.
• Incorporate the prompt as written anywhere into your story (included in your word count).
• Post your story in the comments section of this post
• Include your word count (or be excluded from judging)
• Include your Twitter handle or email (so we know how to find you)
• The challenge is open 7 AM to 7 PM Pacific Time
• The winner will be announced on Friday, depending on how early the judge gets up. ;)

How it benefits you:

• You get a nifty cool badge to display on your blog or site (because we're all about promotion - you know you are!)
• You get instant recognition of your writing prowess on this blog!
• Your writing colleagues shall announce and proclaim your greatness on Facebook, Twitter, and Google Plus

Our Judge for Week 66:

The erotic romance author, Sci-fi adventurist, and Typo Sniper, Cara Michaels.

Cara on Facebook

Cara on Twitter

Cara on Goodreads

Cara on Google Plus

Plus today, Cara has a new release out: Orange Karen Tribute Anthology (ebook) and Print. Pick up your copy today. :)

So now your #ThursThreads Challenge, tying tales together.

The Prompt:

“Sixteen and never been kissed.”

All stories written herein are the property (both intellectual and physical) of the authors. Now, away with you, Flash Fiction Fanatics, and show us your #ThursThreads. Good luck! :)

5 Questions of a Contemporary Erotic Romance Author - Elyzabeth M. Valey

Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, and the Wicked. Today I have the honor of hosting contemporary erotic romance author Elyzabeth M. Valey with a new release through Evernight Publishing, Welcome Aboard. I met Elyzabeth at Six Sentence Sunday and like me, she's been defined as weird for a long time now. She fits right in here. ;) Elyzabeth has graciously offered an excerpt of her new release. Remember this is erotic romance, so if that's not your thing, please exit stage right. :)

Welcome, Elyzabeth. Thank you for being with me today.

Thank you for having me, Siobhan! It’s great to be here.

What started you on the path to becoming an erotic romance author?

Santa. LOL. I’ll explain. When I started writing with the conscious decision to be published, I wrote sweet romance but I wasn’t getting any acceptance letters. One cold December night, an idea occurred to me and I decided to spice things up a bit. I was an avid erotic romance reader, so why not a writer? Thus, The Sweetest Christmas Candy came to existence and I walked the first steps down the erotic romance path as an author.

So you're on the naughty list, yes? Lol Congratulations on your recent release on Welcome Aboard with Evernight Publishing. Introduce us to the main characters and premise of your story.

Here is the blurb: Julie is on vacation! After months of breaking her back at the office she’s ready for a weekend of absolute relaxation: a little reading, good food and some lazing at the beach are her idea of a perfect plan. However, when a handsome man with a sexy smile and naughty accent takes the seat next to hers on the train she’ll enter a wicked ride of passion and delight that will blow her mind and body away.

The story centers around Julie, but there are also two very fine looking gentlemen that share her trip: William and Richard. The story is not a ménage, but I won’t say more.  You’ll have to read it to find out how they’re both involved with Julie and her naughty train ride. *laughs evilly*

Did anything in particular inspire this story?

I guess you could say my daily commute inspired the story. I spend around 2 hours a day on buses and subway trains to and back from work. My Kindle and my notebook are my faithful companions during those trips and during one of them they conspired with the Muse to come up with Welcome Aboard.

Your story has the travel-romance element in it. What attracted you to write that style of romance?

It was an unconscious decision, although once again I guess it’s all the long hours I spend on public transport what started it. Though it hasn’t happened to me, the possibility of meeting someone while on a trip is always there. I just took it a few steps further with Julie.

What other projects are on the horizon for you that we’re likely to see?

Well, I’m super excited because this Friday April 12^th my paranormal –urban fantasy erotic romance, A Dragon’s Heart, A Demon’s Tale releases! And last week I signed a contract for an upcoming mm erotic romance titled Spanish Diversion.  Both stories will be published by Evernight Publishing so if you’re interested you’ll be able to snag a copy there or on any other major retailer.

Thank you for joining me today, Elyzabeth, and we look forward to all your upcoming releases!

Thank you for having me, Siobhan! It’s been a pleasure :-)

If you’d like a copy of Welcome Aboard, you can find it at:

Evernight Publishing

Amazon.com

Amacon.uk

All Romance Ebooks

Bookstrand

If you’d like a copy of Elyzabeth's other books, you can find them at:

http://www.evernightpublishing.com/pages/Elyzabeth-M.-VaLey.html

https://spsilverpublishing.com/index.html?book_authors_id=74&typefilter=book_authors&zenid=45df0696d2505b12b68120c522cb385a

You can find Elyzabeth at:

Facebook

Twitter

Goodreads

Blog: www.inadreambeyond.blogspot.com

Website: www.elyzabethmvaley.weebly.com

Excerpt:

“We’re on a train,” she hissed, gesticulating wildly.

William laughed, the lines on his forehead vanishing.

“I noticed.” He lifted the armrest and placed his hand on her thigh again. Julie bit back an unwanted moan.  “What you failed to have seen, my sweet, is that we’re the only ones in this particular wagon.” He smiled smugly, drumming her thighs in a rhythm that almost had her lifting her hips.

Julie huffed. Yes, her body was weak with desire but she wouldn’t back down so easily.

“It’s a public space.”

“And doesn’t that excite you?” William asked, grasping her flesh, his fingers digging into her skin pleasurably.

Julie’s thoughts scattered. This was crazy. Out right crazy. She wasn’t a one-night-stand kind of girl. Sex in public had been out of the question, and yet—

She observed William. He was impassive, waiting for her resolution while toying with her lust. She shook her head. They could get caught. There could be cameras on the train and it was illegal.

“It’s illegal!” she blurted as the tips of his exploring fingers brushed against her sex.

“So?”

Grasping a strand of her hair between thumb and forefinger, he caressed it before neatly placing it behind her ear, brushing his thumb over the shell.

“It’s only illegal if we get caught, my sweet. I have no intention of allowing that.”

“But--”

His brown eyes bore into hers, the desire swirling in them making her weak at the knees.

“You want to, Julie. I know you do.”

“How?” She cried out the question as he finally pried his way underneath her jeans, resting his fingers above her soaking panties.

“For one, you’ve been squirming in that chair, a lot.” He smiled at her obvious discomfort. “Then,” he murmured, rubbing his finger over her swollen nether lips. “You’re dripping wet. If I wanted to, if you wanted to, I could probably slide this finger inside you without any restraint whatsoever. Maybe even two.”

This was so wrong. His scorching eyes begged her to accept the challenge. Julie bit down on her lip. She couldn’t say yes, not here.

“Tell me you want to, Julie.”

William’s finger found its way under the elastic of her thong. A moan became lodged in her throat as he touched her, learning the wet contours of her cunt with a single digit. 

 “I—"

She hesitated. Did she want to? Did she really want to do this crazy thing? The tip of his finger hovered over her entrance, daring her to accept.

“Say yes, Julie.” His gaze was heated, his breath as shallow as hers.

She wanted this. Damned be it all, she wanted William’s fingers deep inside her pussy. She wanted the dazzling pleasure, the relief to the unrelenting throbbing between her legs. The realization of what she was about to do spiked her desire and cut off her ability to speak. Opening her legs wider, she smiled shakily. William’s lips parted slightly, his gaze fierce as he pushed a finger inside her. Julie reclined against her seat. Her eyes fluttered shut and she whimpered as another thick digit joined the first. She responded to him. He was her master puppeteer and she was his puppet, rolling her hips with every thrust.

“You want more?” he murmured, his lips hovering over hers.

Julie opened her eyes. William regarded her, his long lashes framing deep eyes that she couldn’t help thinking belonged to a poet at heart.

“Yes,” she whispered, closing the distance. Soft and compliant, she mewled her approval, as she tasted him. Her fear had vanished and left behind an ardor that required urgent appeasing. William grunted into her mouth as she teased his bottom lip, nipping at the full bow with relish. Tilting his head to the side, he swept his tongue over the seams of her mouth in a request for entrance. She granted it readily, taking in his tongue with a desperate hunger that rivaled his as they tangled.

He was relentless, his fingers toying with her sex even as he kissed her. In and out, the thick digits of his left hand pumped into her slowly. It was a delicious torture that only succeeded in making her hotter and more desperate for what was to come.

Thank you so much for stopping by and happy reading! :)

Sunday Snippet - A Hell Hound's Fire - A Little Movie Magic

Welcome to the Weekend Writing Warriors! Thank you so much for visiting. If you choose to comment, I really appreciate it. Most of these snippets are unedited, works in progress, and while my snippets aren't consecutive, they are in order within the story. You can read last week's snippet HERE.

Today, I'm offering another snippet from my paranormal romance AVAILABLE NOW entitled A Hell Hound's Fire. Best part? It's free! :D Ahem, definitely not excited in the least. ;) In this snippet, Sarah and Alex just finished their kiss (broken up by the pot boiling over). Sarah's trying to regroup. This is in Sarah's POV.

True Mate. Her Sister self seemed so certain.

She wanted to scoff, but she didn’t want Alex to think she didn’t believe him. “It’s all right. I’m sure it’s just the ‘poor me’ attitude I was giving you. Isn’t there a line in Under the Tuscan Sun where the bloke says she has to stop crying or he’d be forced to make love to her? I’m sure it’s just something like that.”

Did she just suggest he’d been thinking of making love to her? Can you be any more forward with a man trying to help you? Chewed bones. She felt her face flush and ran a hand over her hair.

Alex chuckled and shifted his hips as if his jeans had become too tight.

 

At least she knows what she wants, lol. ;) There are several great authors on the Weekend Writing Warrior list and a few of my favorites are Sarah Ballance, Charmaine Gordon, Goran Zidar, Karla Doyle, and A.S. Fenichel.

If you're interested in A Hell Hound's fire, here is the cover and blurb:

Love can be found in the most unlikely places, even the heart of a Hell Hound.

Alex MacLaren figures he'll never find love again after his mate dies. As one of the rare Hell Hound werewolves, his chances are slim to none. And slim went home. When the local Morukai shaman calls on him to protect a lovely Irish werewolf and her young son from demons, he can't help but take the job.

Sarah Flanagan is desperate to save her son Liam from the deadly monster trailing them, but she's out of options and places to hide. She lost her mate the last time she encountered a demon, and with Liam depending on her, the stakes are far higher this time. After meeting Alex, she's not sure about the Hell Hound, but she’s no fool. He’s their best hope for survival... and hers for another chance at love.

You can also find this on Amazon, but it's not free. If you'd like to help me get them to price match, please go to the Amazon page and click on the like "tell us about a lower price." Just put in the Smashwords URL and hopefully they will get the hint soon.

Thank you all for stopping by and happy reading! :)

#ThursThreads - Week 65 - Winners

 

Week 65 of #ThursThreads had some terrific tales! Thanks to all who came to write yesterday. I'm honored to see all of the returning writers and read your stories. Thank you for coming back again and again to write. And I'm delighted to see new writers stopping by. Great thanks go to Scott McKinley for reading the stories.

Entries:

• @LupusAnthropos
• Sheilagh Lee | @SweetSheil
• Toni Morrow Wyatt | @Toni1777
• Rebecca Brennan | @bexbrennan
• Kayla West | @bookwormattack
• Leigh Cramer-Espinosa | @GarfieldRollins
• Siobhan Muir | @SiobhanMuir
• Robin Abess | @Angelique_Rider
• Mark Ethridge | @LurchMunster
• JM | @JMwandering
• Sandra Bunino | @SandraBunino
• Grace Black | @blackinkpinkdsk
• The Imaginator | @theimaginator20
• Irene Constantine | @ireconstant
• Angelica Dawson | @AngelicaDawson
• David A Ludwig | @DavidALudwig
• Kirsten Arnold
• Dr Magoo | @drmagoo
• Veronica Jordan | @RevolutionaryVJ

Scott says: This was very difficult as they were all guid. Thanks Siobhan fer asking me tae do this.

Winners Announcement:

Honorable Mentions

 

Kayla West | @bookwormattack

Kirsten Arnold

JM | @JMwandering

Week 65 Winner

Grace Black | @blackinkpinkdsk

Scott says: It was well written and interesting. Being a former Special Forces Soldier and Bodyguard this one just stood oot fer me as I found it easy tae relate tae.

The fear wasn’t nearly as palpable as it should’ve been pressed flush against his solid form serving as a human shield. Under normal circumstances, if she’d been mashed against his wall of muscle, her rapid heart rate would probably be throbbing elsewhere, but these weren’t normal circumstances. Still, her brain seemed confused by this fact.

Cara was wedged between a metal shelf and Trey’s hard body—a body she’d eyed numerous times from a distance—in the middle of the QuickMart. She’d never seen someone move as fast as he had before the shots rang out. A muddled mess of panic and regret clouded her mind as she lay pressed against his back. Sixteen and never been kissed.

Trey signaled and she obeyed, shimming farther towards the back. Without a word, Trey had secured a position near the armed robber and delivered an effortless forward sweep, knocking the guy down and disarmed him in record time.

“You okay?” Trey questioned after the police arrived.

“Un-huh.” Cara’s eyes traced the too tight shirt stretched across his torso and swallowed.

“You sure?” He smirked.

Giving a shaky nod, her breath caught as his hand slipped around her waist to steady her; they stood toe-to-toe.

“Please, don’t look at me like that.”

“What?” she squeaked.

“That look—don’t, kid.”

“I’m not a kid!”

“Trust me, you are. If you weren’t, I’d gladly give you what your eyes are desperately begging me for. Nothing personal, kid.” He smiled and walked away.

Congratulations Grace, Kayla, Kirsten, and JM! Don't forget to claim your badges and display them with pride. You certainly earned it! :)

Pass on the great news on Twitter, Facebook, Google Plus, shiny mirrors, Morse Code, and signal flags. Check out all the stories here. Thanks for stopping by and happy reading! :)

#ThursThreads - The Challenge That Ties Tales Together - Week 65

 

Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked, and #ThursThreads, the Challenge that Ties Tales Together. Let's get started. It's Thursday again, so what should you be doing? Writing #flashfiction, that's what! Welcome to Week 65 of #ThursThreads, the challenge that ties tales together. Need the rules? Read on!

Here's how it works:

• The prompt is a line from the previous week's winning tale.
• The prompt can appear ANYWHERE in your story and is included in your word count.

Rules to the Game:

• This is a Flash Fiction challenge, which means your story must be a minimum of 100 words, maximum of 250.
• Incorporate the prompt as written anywhere into your story (included in your word count).
• Post your story in the comments section of this post
• Include your word count (or be excluded from judging)
• Include your Twitter handle or email (so we know how to find you)
• The challenge is open 7 AM to 7 PM Pacific Time
• The winner will be announced on Friday, depending on how early the judge gets up. ;)

How it benefits you:

• You get a nifty cool badge to display on your blog or site (because we're all about promotion - you know you are!)
• You get instant recognition of your writing prowess on this blog!
• Your writing colleagues shall announce and proclaim your greatness on Facebook, Twitter, and Google Plus

Our Judge for Week 65:

Cover model and romance author, Scott McKinley.

Scott on Facebook

Scott on Twitter

Scott on Goodreads

So now your #ThursThreads Challenge, tying tales together.

The Prompt:

“Nothing personal, kid.”

All stories written herein are the property (both intellectual and physical) of the authors. Now, away with you, Flash Fiction Fanatics, and show us your #ThursThreads. Good luck! :)