Monday, March 31, 2014

New Release and Character Interview from A.S. Fenichel


Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked! Today, A.S. Fenichel stops by on her blog tour for her newest release Joshua's Mistake, and a character interview with her hero. This tale is a hot and sexy sequel to Kane's Bounty, and continues Ms. Fenichel's paranormal romance series.

Interview with Joshua Lakeland from Joshua’s Mistake

A.S.: Joshua, we know that you’re a psychic government agent. Tell us how you came to join such a dangerous organization?

Joshua: I didn’t really join. I was recruited at a young age.

A.S.: Where were you before you were recruited?

Joshua: My brother Kane and I were living in an orphanage somewhere in the southern part of the United States.

A.S.: Can you tell us what happened?

Joshua: I was five or six, my psi gifts had already begun to show up in little ways. One day two men came and took me away. After that, I was trained to use my psi skills. I was taught to fight and survive in any conditions. When I was older I began getting assignments from the FBI and CIA.

A.S.: What happened to Kane?

Joshua: He was recruited a few years later by another organization. He became a bounty hunter, but I didn’t see him again for many years.

A.S.: That must have been difficult for you.

Joshua: (casual shrug) We found each other. That’s all that matters.

A.S.: Are you still working for the same organization?

Joshua: For the moment, but I’ve been thinking for a long time that it might be time to open my own agency. I want to make sure that people with psychic powers are not used for the wrong reasons or at least give them a viable choice of where to work. Some get taken advantage of, but for some the lure of a big payday is too seductive. When I open the Psi Alliance, it will be different.

A.S.: I understand there’s some resistance to you going private sector.

Joshua: (another shrug) The people who matter are in my corner. Tessa and I will make a go of it.

A.S.: But didn’t you and Tessa Clark meet under unpleasant circumstances? Weren’t you ordered to take information from her mind by force?

Joshua: You know, I’m grateful for only one thing, the greed and fear of some officials brought Tessa into my life. I don’t owe them anything. I gave it all already.

A.S.: You didn’t answer the question.

Joshua: (a wicked smile) I guess you’ll just have to read the book…

If you're interested in reading Joshua's Mistake, you can find it:
Ellora's Cave
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Kobo

Here's the blurb:

Accused of treason and the murder of her Psychic Special Forces team, Tessa is in the custody of the FBI. She’s shocked and terrified when the most powerful Psi Agent in the world shows up to probe her mind and discover her guilt or innocence.

Joshua never expected to find a victim of one of his probes attractive, but he can’t seem to leave her behind when all hell breaks loose. Saving the stunning blonde means being drawn into a psychic war that will definitely end his career—and likely both of their lives.

The rhythm of their psychic auras hums to perfection and neither can fight the bond, but it’s all ripped away by a madman with a grudge. Tessa falls into a coma, and Joshua will have to risk his heart and soul to pull her back from the brink.

Excerpt

Joshua got up from the farm table. “I’ll be back in a little while. Peggy, can you show Tessa where she can rest?”

Peggy smiled warmly. “Of course. You’ll be wanting a shower too. If you give me those clothes, I’ll get them in the washing machine and have them clean when you wake up.”

“You’re very kind, Mrs. Flack.”
She waved a bony hand in dismissal. “You just call me Peggy. Everyone does.”

Tessa had said all the right things to Peggy. She had been polite and controlled her emotions. Inside, she was just short of full on panic. He was leaving her. Who could blame him? Tessa didn’t want to alarm the Flacks so she remained silent, yet practically screamed in her mind, “Where the hell are you going? Are you leaving me here?”

Part of her wanted him to hear and another part of her understood why he would want to get as far away from her as possible. Just because she could feel his emotions didn’t mean he would sense hers. He was undoubtedly very practiced at closing off his mind. If he was really a level ten psychic, he would have to just to stay sane.

He’d likely get killed if he stayed with her. At least he’d gotten her to a place where she could try to catch a few hours of sleep and then she’d be on the run. Probably for the rest of her life, however long that might be.

From the way his head spun around, she might as well have spoken out loud. His eyes widened and then he stalked toward her. He was visceral and terrifying. His body language said he wanted her and he might take her right there in the kitchen.

Tessa held her ground in the center of the old linoleum floor. She didn’t know if she wanted to move closer or run away. Everything about Joshua made her at once, curious, aroused and afraid.

Bill cleared his throat and walked out the door with his shotgun in his hand.

Peggy said, “Well, um…I’ll just wait for you in the next room, Tessa dear.”

Joshua didn’t stop until he was standing with only a sliver of light between them. She had to crane her neck to look up at him. His mouth came within a centimeter of hers, but he never touched her.

“I’m not leaving you.”

Her heart pounded in her chest and her stomach clenched painfully. “I can take care of myself.”

One side of his mouth lifted. His right hand came up and calloused fingers slid across her cheekbone. He was powerful. He could kill her. If his psi rating was true, he could likely kill her without touching her, but he could just as easily snap her neck. She could defend herself, but what would be the point. This was Joshua Lakeland. Eventually he would win.

Those same fingers continued until they were threaded through her hair and he forced her to look him in the eye. “I know you can, Tessa. I’m not leaving because I don’t want to leave you. I can’t explain why, but we’re in this together. You’re going to have to learn to trust me.”

She had to force air into her lungs. “I’ve already taken several leaps of faith. You just said you were leaving. If you want to go, then go.”

He shook his head, but didn’t release her. “I’m going to get rid of the car. I don’t want to get picked up by the local police because we made a rookie mistake and kept a stolen car too long.”

“Oh.” She could feel her cheeks flushing.

His left hand came up and cupped her other cheek. He ran a thumb along her bottom lip. She wanted to be impervious to his attention, but her body trembled at his touch.

His mouth drew closer. His breath mingled with hers as her lips separated partially in shock at what was about to happen and partially in need of his kiss. Those deep blue eyes locked with hers and she couldn’t blink or look away. He scanned her face to her lips, closed his eyes and stepped away.

Tessa’s instinct told her she should throw her arms around his neck and take the kiss he’d nearly given. Her cautious nature kept her feet planted in the spot on the linoleum.

Only the sound of heavy breathing filled the kitchen for several ticks of the clock.

“I’ll be back in a little while. You’d better get some rest.” Joshua walked out the kitchen door into the yard.

Thanks for stopping by and happy reading! :)

Sunday, March 30, 2014

Snippet Sunday - Bronco's Rough Ride - An Odd Request


Welcome to the Snippet Sunday on the Weird, the Wild, and the Wicked. Thank you so much for visiting. If you choose to comment today, I really appreciate it. The snippets are from my upcoming release, Bronco's Rough Ride, a military romantic suspense set in Las Vegas. It's a prequel to The Navy's Ghost, set 10 years earlier. No paranormal critters in this one, though there's plenty of kick-ass adventure and hot sex. You can read last week's snippet HERE.

Chief Petty Officer John "Bronco" Andrews has never encountered this situation in all his years as a SEAL operator. And now the detective playing the dangerous game with him needs him to do something for her...

Bronco wished he could ask her to repeat the question. Officer Lindsey Jarvis from the Las Vegas Metro Police Department wanted him to get a hard-on for her? Of all the things he’d been required to do as a SEAL in the US Navy, this had to be the oddest request ever. Not that it would be too difficult with her soft touches, sultry voice, and her exquisite body. Had he seen the woman in a bar, wearing the slinky black dress with a slit up to her ass, he would have made a play for her immediately.

Of course, in his current state, he wouldn’t be making a play for anyone until he got out of this situation. It had looked bleak until she’d walked in and told him who she was. Then possibilities had bloomed in his mind faster than he could lock on them. Must be the fucking drugs. They befuddled his mind for all they left him conscious. He hadn’t forgotten who he was, but the details of how he’d gotten here had fallen into obscurity. As far as he knew, he’d been on leave on his way…somewhere. Now he lay strapped to another bench of some kind, naked, with his body still unresponsive.

Ah, but at least Bronco has some fun company. ;) There are several great authors on the Weekend Writing Warrior list and in the Snippet Sunday Facebook group. A few of my favorites are Anastasia Vitsky, SJ Maylee, Gem Sivad, Goran Zidar, Zee Monodee, Veronica Scott, and Karla Doyle.

If you're interested in more from Bronco's Rough Ride, here's the blurb:

What happens in Vegas, stays in the heart...

Chief Petty Officer John "Bronco" Andrews only meant to stay one night in Vegas for a little R&R before resuming his duties as a US Navy SEAL in Coronado. But someone slips him a mickey in the bar and he finds himself in Madame LeBeau's sex trade. As the product. Doped up on ketamine to keep him docile, Bronco has no choice but to let it ride.

Detective Lindsey Jarvis has been undercover in LeBeau's sex slave racket for two years and she almost has enough evidence to take it down. Between abduction, prostitution, and murder, she has LeBeau by the short hairs. All she needs is a "product". John is the perfect witness if she can get him out before the drugs shut down his heart. Then she'll be free to start a normal life.

Lindsey doesn't count on her overwhelming attraction for Bronco or her need to see him through detox. But she's a cop in Vegas and he's a Navy SEAL, two lifestyles with too much unpredictability to maintain a relationship. Neither have time for more than one wild rough ride, and what happens in Vegas, stays. Forever.

It's now available at Smashwords, Amazon, and All Romance eBooks. Thanks so much for stopping by and happy reading. :)

Friday, March 28, 2014

#ThursThreads - Week 114 - Winners


Week 114 of #ThursThreads had some terrific tales and a great turnout. 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 for helping me celebrate these years of flash. It was also wonderful to have some new folks stop by. Welcome! Great thanks to Fred Edwards for judging this week. Be sure to check out the #ThursThreads #flashfiction group on FB to keep up with news, etc. And just a reminder: There will be NO #THURSTHREADS next week. I'll catch you on April 10th.

Entries:
  • Silver James | @SilverJames_
  • Olivia Starke | @OliviaStarke
  • Sheilagh Lee | @SweetSheil
  • Richard Gibney | @ragtaggiggagon
  • Sandra Bunino | @SandraBunino
  • Kelly Heinen | @Aightball
  • David Kluge
  • Charles W Jones | @ChuckWesJ
  • Siobhan Muir | @SiobhanMuir
  • Anna Lund | @AnnaLund2011
  • Anne Odom | @AFOdom
  • Mark Ethridge | @LurchMunster
  • Hunter Frost | @HunterFrostMM
Fred says: All the submissions were great! It was tough to judge.

Winners Announcement:

Honorable Mentions

Silver James | @SilverJames_

Richard Gibney | @ragtaggiggagon

Siobhan Muir| @SiobhanMuir
Fred says: I loved how you all sucked me into each of your worlds in so few words. I liked how all created a world and drew me into it. Also I liked the writing style as it was easy to read in all of them.

Week 114 Winner



Fred says: I especially enjoyed how the author took on the challenge phrase and made it part of the story. The story kept my interest, I enjoyed how it unfolded and it was easy for my antihistamine laden brain to follow - I’ve been fighting a cold – so “easy to read” and “capturing my interest” were key.

“You want a what?” I twisted my yellowing over-dyed hair into a knot and secured it with a pair of pencils.

“Cupcake vodka, with Limoncello, and a twist of lemon for garnish.”

“Here.” I passed her a slice of lemon poundcake and poured a splash of vodka over the top.

“That’s disgusting, Lu.”

“Well it’s the best you’re gonna get, because I don’t have all the rest of that crap.” I grabbed a cold beer for myself.

Ella scrunched up her nose but shoved the cake in her mouth just the same. “Who is it tonight?”

“Jogger. He runs alone. Passes in front around 10PM.”

“So what’s the plan?”

“He thinks he’s safe in the dark, what with being a man.” I knocked back a good half my beer and belched. “He heads to the park and runs off track into the wooded area. No idea why. But good cover for us.”

“Simple and clean.” Ella picked up her duffle. “Got fresh empty blood bags. Small ice chest for the organs. Better organ preservation bags, since the last one leaked. Oh, and refills of Celsior solution.”

“Excellent.” I strapped on my knives, downed the rest of the beer, and tossed the can across the room into recycling. “Two points! Now let’s go get the man.”

Congratulations Winner Anne, Silver and Richard! 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! :)

Thursday, March 27, 2014

#ThursThreads - The Challenge That Ties Tales Together - Week 114


Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked. It's Thursday today, so what should you be doing? Writing #FlashFiction, that's what! Welcome to Week 114 of #ThursThreads, the challenge that ties tales together. Want to keep up each week? You're welcome to join the FB #ThursThreads group where we'll do events and make announcements. 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 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 114:

Botanist, full time federal bureaucrat, part time gardener, paranormal romance fan, and Luddite, Fred Edwards.


And now your #ThursThreads Challenge, tying tales together.

The Prompt:

“Go get the man.”

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!

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Mid Week Tease - Bronco's Rough Ride - Securing the Goods


Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for a new year of Mid Week Tease hosted by Sandra Bunino.

Authors: this is a great opportunity to spotlight a few lines or even a paragraph or two from a new release or backlisted title. Readers: you get to sample some delicious snippets! We’ll do our best to tease, titillate and tantalize you into the weekend.

My Mid Week Tease is from my newest release Bronco's Rough Ride, the prequel to The Navy's Ghost. Chief Petty Officer John "Bronco" Andrews is just trying to get from Virginia to California to resume his duty as a Navy SEAL for Team 9, Bravo Squad. But someone slips drugs into his drink and he winds up tied to a slab in a cell somewhere. Detective Lindsey Jarvis is undercover as the Black Widow of Vegas in Madame LeBeau's reverse sex ring and she's determined to make sure she gets him out. She just has to make sure he's hers.

Lindsey glanced at the handsome hirsute man bound to the table. Her stomach curdled at the way he’d been drugged and trussed up. His dog tags lay on his chest and scars from real action marred the skin in a few places. The reminder of all he’d paid for made her gorge rise. Lindsey nodded and hoped the furious disgust didn’t show on her face as she preceded Madame LeBeau out of the observation room.

Deep breath now. You can’t save them all, but you can save this one and get him to tell you everything you need to bring her down.

The madam led her to a bank of elevators and stepped into the first car. Once the doors had closed, she inserted a key and pressed an unmarked button on the console. The elevator made a smooth descent and they rode in silence. Lindsey eyed the woman curiously as the car stopped and the doors open.

“These are our holding cells for prospective buyers to inspect the merchandise up close.” LeBeau gestured for Lindsey to follow her down a dark, concrete hallway. “As you have already chosen, as soon as you’ve enjoyed your sample, we will have your purchase sent to your suite whenever you desire.”

“Do I get to keep my goods in my room or must I return them to you when I’m done for the night?”

“The goods are returned to the holding cells for maintenance and upkeep.”

Lindsey did some quick calculations and flattened her mouth in displeasure. “How will I be assured no one else will have access to my purchase?” Sweet God, I won’t let anyone else touch him.

“We take our customers’ property very seriously, Ms. Black. Once you’ve confirmed your selection, your goods will be marked as taken.”

“How long do I have to make my decision?”

“Within twenty-four hours of sampling.”

“Excellent.” She’d already made her decision.

Madame Le Beau nodded and unlocked the faux bedroom door where the soldier lay.

I will take you down, bitch, just for harming someone who has already paid his dues.

“There you are, Ms. Black. I hope you enjoy.”

“Thank you, Madame LeBeau. I will.”

Bronco's Rough Ride is now available at Smashwords, Amazon, and All Romance eBooks. Thanks so much for stopping by and happy reading. :)

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Sunday, March 23, 2014

Snippet Sunday - Bronco's Rough Ride - Picture Worth a Thousand Words


Welcome to the Snippet Sunday on the Weird, the Wild, and the Wicked. Thank you so much for visiting. If you choose to comment today, I really appreciate it. The snippets are from my upcoming release, Bronco's Rough Ride, a military romantic suspense set in Las Vegas. It's a prequel to The Navy's Ghost, set 10 years earlier. No paranormal critters in this one, though there's plenty of kick-ass adventure and hot sex. You can read last week's snippet HERE.

Detective Lindsey Jarvis is undercover as Mistress Jenna Black in Madame LeBeau's sex-trade. She has managed to be vetted and now gets to choose her own toy. You can read a beginning of this scene HERE. But Lindsey needs evidence and a video of her time with "John" would help her case immensely. Lindsey speaks first.

“Madame LeBeau, I’m not asking you for the original or all copies of it, I simply want a personal copy so I can enjoy my time over and over again. I’ve paid well enough for such an unusual request and if it cannot be granted, I will require a refund and I shall leave immediately.” Lindsey picked up her purse and looped it over her shoulder. “Do we have a deal or will I be expecting recompense from you?”

Madame LeBeau stood tall, staring down her Gallic nose at Lindsey, but as one of the few female undercover cops, she’d dealt with far more intimidating men and women on the job. The elegant madam didn’t hold a candle. Besides, Lindsey needed the video as evidence to bring this bitch down. She just hoped LeBeau wanted the money more than Lindsey wanted the video.

“Very well. I shall allow one copy to be delivered to your suite when you’re done with your acquisition.” She gestured toward the door on the other side of the bank of monitors. “Are you ready to inspect your purchase up close?”

I love when Lindsey shows her steel. ;) There are several great authors on the Weekend Writing Warrior list and in the Snippet Sunday Facebook group. A few of my favorites are Anastasia Vitsky, SJ Maylee, Gem Sivad, Goran Zidar, Zee Monodee, Veronica Scott, and Karla Doyle.

If you're interested in more from Bronco's Rough Ride, here's the blurb:

What happens in Vegas, stays in the heart...

Chief Petty Officer John "Bronco" Andrews only meant to stay one night in Vegas for a little R&R before resuming his duties as a US Navy SEAL in Coronado. But someone slips him a mickey in the bar and he finds himself in Madame LeBeau's sex trade. As the product. Doped up on ketamine to keep him docile, Bronco has no choice but to let it ride.

Detective Lindsey Jarvis has been undercover in LeBeau's sex slave racket for two years and she almost has enough evidence to take it down. Between abduction, prostitution, and murder, she has LeBeau by the short hairs. All she needs is a "product". John is the perfect witness if she can get him out before the drugs shut down his heart. Then she'll be free to start a normal life.

Lindsey doesn't count on her overwhelming attraction for Bronco or her need to see him through detox. But she's a cop in Vegas and he's a Navy SEAL, two lifestyles with too much unpredictability to maintain a relationship. Neither have time for more than one wild rough ride, and what happens in Vegas, stays. Forever.

It's now available at Smashwords, Amazon, and All Romance eBooks. Thanks so much for stopping by and happy reading. :)

Friday, March 21, 2014

#ThursThreads - Week 113 - Winners


Week 113 of #ThursThreads had some terrific tales and a great turnout. 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 for helping me celebrate these years of flash. It was also wonderful to have some new folks stop by. Welcome! Great thanks to George Varhalmi for judging this week. Be sure to check out the #ThursThreads #flashfiction group on FB to keep up with news, etc.

Entries:
  • Sandy Layne | @sandyquill
  • Sheilagh Lee | @SweetSheil
  • Siobhan Muir | @SiobhanMuir
  • Mark Ethridge | @LurchMunster
  • S.J. Maylee | @SJMaylee
  • K.B. Gardener | @KBGardener
  • Kelly Heinen | @Aightball
  • Anna Lund | @AnnaLund2011
  • Silver James | @SilverJames_
  • Cate Derham | @Cate_Derham
  • Cynthia Hudson Keane | @AuthorCAKeane
  • Charley Descoteaux | @CharleyDescote
  • Nellie Batz | @solimund
  • Hunter Frost | @HunterFrostMM
  • Robin Abess | @Angelique_Rider
George says: Very tough to make choices there were some amazingly good stories.

Winners Announcement:

Honorable Mentions

Hunter Frost | @HunterFrostMM
George says: I love the conviction and the strength to make a stand. It is especially hard to do so in front of family. I can feel the voice and power behind the conviction.

Silver James | @SilverJames_
George says: Two opposites of the same coin of sorts. Someone is going to get fucked up in Silver’s story. There’s a lot of power and anger in those words and the world is going to crash down on the poor soul who created those feelings.

Nellie Batz| @solimond
George says: Curiosity killed the cat, or in this case fed the beast. The question remains will poor Tracy come out alive or not remains to be seen. She remained defiant, but for how long? Well done.

Week 113 Winner


Camera Shy Cate Derham

George says: We have all been stuck in our mind, second-guessing ourselves but the shock of when it all goes our way and the joy it brings is captured magnificently. I have been there a few times. I can feel the doubt, the fear creeping in and shock of disbelief of it going your way.

She knew it was a mistake. Didn't matter. She would go ahead and do it anyway. He was just too sure of himself. The fact that he was so ruggedly handsome was no reason to resist challenging him.

Okay, yes, that annoying little voice in her head told her for the sixth or seventh time not to do it.

Did she listen? She never listened. Her silly pride always got in the way.

She went up to him and accepted his challenge. Ride the bronco for twenty seconds or forfeit the new jeep she was struggling to make payments on.

So there she was, sitting in the mud, on her bum, wet, dirty and humiliated.

You would not listen so don't expect pity, her inner voice said.

She had to admit the voice was right. Actually she didn't remember a time the voice was wrong. If only she would listen to it.

"Congrats, Savannah, you did it. Twenty-eight seconds." Carly beamed with pride for her sister.

"You mean I get to keep my jeep?"

"Never mind the jeep, sis. Go get the man. He's what you really want, you're just too stubborn to admit it."

Congratulations Winner Cate, Hunter, Silver and Nellie! 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! :)

Thursday, March 20, 2014

#ThursThreads - The Challenge That Ties Tales Together - Week 113


Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked. Happy First Day of Spring 2014! Are you feeling it? ;) It's Thursday today, so what should you be doing? Writing #FlashFiction, that's what! Welcome to Week 113 of #ThursThreads, the challenge that ties tales together. Want to keep up each week? You're welcome to join the FB #ThursThreads group where we'll do events and make announcements. 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 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 113:

Rock nerd, paleo-geek, mining geologist, and comic book aficionado, George Varhalmi.


And now your #ThursThreads Challenge, tying tales together.

The Prompt:

“You would not listen.”

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!

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

#BookHooks - Bronco's Rough Ride - Daddy Issues


Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for a new year of Wednesday Book Hooks hosted by MFRW Blog.

Readers: you get to sample some fantastic snippets! We’ll do our best to hook you into the depths of our books.

My Book hook is from my upcoming release Bronco's Rough Ride, the prequel to The Navy's Ghost. Chief Petty Officer John "Bronco" Andrews is just trying to get from Virginia to California to resume his duty as a Navy SEAL for Team 9, Bravo Squad. But someone slips drugs into his drink and he winds up tied to a slab in a cell somewhere. Detective Lindsey Jarvis is undercover as the Black Widow of Vegas in Madame LeBeau's reverse sex ring and she'll be damned before she loses Bronco.

Lindsey Jarvis let her gaze rest on the monitors of the bound man and forced her expression to remain serene. Outrage burned through her veins at the treatment of men in general, but specifically this serviceman from one of the armed forces. The bitch must have slipped him a real Mickey to bring him down. Even in modern day 2004, sometimes the oldest tricks worked best for manipulation of the strong.

“I want him. He reminds me of my father.” Thank God the man looked nothing like her father. Let the creepy madam think she had daddy issues. “But he’s much better built than the old man and I’d like to see how muscles like that feel.”

Bronco's Rough Ride will be available everywhere on March 21, 2014!

BLURB:
What happens in Vegas, stays in the heart...

Chief Petty Officer John "Bronco" Andrews only meant to stay one night in Vegas for a little R&R before resuming his duties as a US Navy SEAL in Coronado. But someone slips him a mickey in the bar and he finds himself in Madame LeBeau's sex trade. As the product. Doped up on ketamine to keep him docile, Bronco has no choice but to let it ride.

Detective Lindsey Jarvis has been undercover in LeBeau's sex slave racket for two years and she almost has enough evidence to take it down. Between abduction, prostitution, and murder, she has LeBeau by the short hairs. All she needs is a "product". John is the perfect witness if she can get him out before the drugs shut down his heart. Then she'll be free to start a normal life.

Lindsey doesn't count on her overwhelming attraction for Bronco or her need to see him through detox. But she's a cop in Vegas and he's a Navy SEAL, two lifestyles with too much unpredictability to maintain a relationship. Neither have time for more than one wild rough ride, and what happens in Vegas, stays. Forever.

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Sunday, March 16, 2014

Snippet Sunday - Bronco's Rough Ride - Bound and Silent


Welcome to the Snippet Sunday on the Weird, the Wild, and the Wicked. Thank you so much for visiting. If you choose to comment today, I really appreciate it. The snippets are from my upcoming release, Bronco's Rough Ride, a military romantic suspense set in Las Vegas. It's a prequel to The Navy's Ghost, set 10 years earlier. No paranormal critters in this one, though there's plenty of kick-ass adventure and hot sex. You can read last week's snippet HERE.

Chief Petty Officer John "Bronco" Andrews is stuck in a cell somewhere in Vegas and he can't move his body at all. Two women come into the cell and are talking over him like he's a product. The older-looking of the two is trying to get the financial sponsorship from the one named Aislynn.

Aislynn nodded. “And who is this?”

“This is one of our latest acquisitions.”

“Acquisitions?” She raised an elegant eyebrow. “You don’t appreciate the male of the species?”

“On the contrary. I highly appreciate them.” The older woman leaned close, the cloying scent of her perfume swamping John’s nose. “Especially when they’re docile and immobile. The best man is bound and silent, am I right?”

Oh, that woman is diabolical. ;) There are several great authors on the Weekend Writing Warrior list and in the Snippet Sunday Facebook group. A few of my favorites are Anastasia Vitsky, SJ Maylee, Gem Sivad, Goran Zidar, Zee Monodee, Veronica Scott, and Karla Doyle.

If you're interested in more from Bronco's Rough Ride, here's the tentative blurb:

What happens in Vegas, stays in the heart...

Chief Petty Officer John "Bronco" Andrews only meant to stay one night in Vegas for a little R&R before resuming his duties as a US Navy SEAL in Coronado. But someone slips him a mickey in the bar and he finds himself in Madame LeBeau's sex trade. As the product. Doped up on ketamine to keep him docile, Bronco has no choice but to let it ride.

Detective Lindsey Jarvis has been undercover in LeBeau's sex slave racket for two years and she almost has enough evidence to take it down. Between abduction, prostitution, and murder, she has LeBeau by the short hairs. All she needs is a "product". John is the perfect witness if she can get him out before the drugs shut down his heart. Then she'll be free to start a normal life.

Lindsey doesn't count on her overwhelming attraction for Bronco or her need to see him through detox. But she's a cop in Vegas and he's a Navy SEAL, two lifestyles with too much unpredictability to maintain a relationship. Neither have time for more than one wild rough ride, and what happens in Vegas, stays. Forever.


The release date is March 21 and it will be available at Smashwords, Amazon, and All Romance eBooks. Thanks so much for stopping by and happy reading. :)

Friday, March 14, 2014

#ThursThreads - Week 112 - Winners


Week 112 of #ThursThreads had some terrific tales and a great turnout. 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 for helping me celebrate these years of flash. It was also wonderful to have some new folks stop by. Welcome! Great thanks to Marla Monroe for judging this week. Be sure to check out the #ThursThreads #flashfiction group on FB to keep up with news, etc.

Entries:
  • Liz March | @Chattmor
  • Sandy Layne | @sandyquill
  • Sheilagh Lee | @SweetSheil (poem)
  • Charles W. Jones | @ChuckWesJ
  • Siobhan Muir | @SiobhanMuir
  • Hunter Frost | @HunterFrostMM 
  • Anna Lund | @AnnaLund2011
  • Kelly Heinen | @Aightball
  • Leigh Ellwood | @LeighEllwood
  • Silver James | @SilverJames_
  • Sheilagh Lee | @SweetSheil (prose)
  • Kasey Lane | @kaseylanewrites
  • Charley Emma | @Charley_001
  • Louisa Bacio | @LousiaBacio
  • Mark Ethridge | @LurchMunster
  • Cara Michaels | @caramichaels

Winners Announcement:

Honorable Mentions

Charles W Jones | @ChuckWesJ
Marla says: This one intrigued me with wanting to know why the others were missing. I knew that something was different then learned what it was, but not how or why. I want to know more. Always leave them hungry for more. It assures they'll turn the page.

Hunter Frost | @HunterFrostMM
Marla says: I liked the voices in this one along with the inner dialogue that told the story along side the character actually doing the talking. The unexpectedness of the end left me feeling sorry for the guy. Eliciting feelings for the characters is important.

Leigh Ellwood | @LeighEllwood
Marla says: This was beautiful to me. It expressed an issue many people live out every day. The grass is always greener—my ass is too big. We always want what we don't have and the one we covet is already coveting us. The style was intriguing as well as the word choices. I could hear it at a slam poetry reading and at the same time, I could hear it in a song.

Week 112 Winner



Marla says: This one caught my attention from the start. It gave just enough to hold your attention with an end that told you he'd killed her but made you want to know more. Why did he kill her? How did he kill her and who else had he killed? Leaving the reader with questions so that they turn the next page is what every writer strives for.

“It was never a matter of not loving you. Loving you was the easy part,” Charlie said, as he stepped over her body. She looked peaceful and quiet.

“I wanted to keep you safe and just love you, but no …” he said walking over to the queen size bed. He pulled and struggled with the pink rose pedal bed sheet. Some of the red blotches covered the pedals making it look as if it was bleached in blood.

“You would not listen. You wanted time apart, ” he spat and tugged harder at the corner of the bed where the sheet remained stuck, as if it knew its new purpose and struggled to avoid it. The sheet finally popped and he covered her semi-nude body.

“You look like you had a big date. Well, I know it was not with me.” Charlie lifted her lifeless body and took her downstairs to the garage and into the trunk of her vehicle.

“It did not have to end this way, precious.” Before he closed the trunk he covered her again with a long plastic tarp.

“I told you about Amelia, she would not listen either, and ended up just like you.”

Congratulations Winner Lizzie, Charles, Hunter, and Leigh! 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! :)

Thursday, March 13, 2014

#ThursThreads - The Challenge That Ties Tales Together - Week 112


Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked. It's Thursday today, so what should you be doing? Writing #FlashFiction, that's what! Welcome to Week 112 of #ThursThreads, the challenge that ties tales together. Want to keep up each week? You're welcome to join the FB #ThursThreads group where we'll do events and make announcements. 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 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 112:

Cat lover, research aficionado, and erotic romance author, Marla Monroe.


And now your #ThursThreads Challenge, tying tales together.

The Prompt:

“Just like you.”

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!

Monday, March 10, 2014

5 Questions of a Historical and Erotic Romance Author: A.S. Fenichel


Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, and the Wicked. Today I have the honor of hosting historical romance author A.S. Fenichel with her newest release, Wishing Game! I met A.S. on Six Sentence Sunday when she shared her snippets of her Mayan Destiny series. She had me hooked with her storytelling and hints of magic. I’m absolutely delighted to have her here on my blog.

Welcome, A.S. Thank you so much for being with me today.

A.S. : I’m delighted to be here, Siobhan. You were so wonderful to ask me.

What started you on the path to becoming a romance author and what did you do before that?

A.S.: My mother always said I was Pollyanna. I always believed everything would be all right as a child. I still do. I guess my way of insuring the Pollyanna attitude can continue, is to write books that must end in a “happily ever after”. For me, if the story doesn’t end in an HEA then it’s not over yet.

Though I was only published in 2011, I’ve been writing for about twenty years. So before I was published I had a day job. I worked in Customer Service and Logistics for years and then finished off my business career as an IT specialist for the SAP ERP software program.

Congratulations on your release of Wishing Game. Introduce us to the main characters and premise of your story.

A.S. : Thank you. I’m really excited about Wishing Game. This is my second published Regency historical romance. 

Lady Mary Barrow is about to lose everything when her ailing father dies unless she marries before that sad day. Mary gives the impression of a really practical young lady, but she continues to refuse offers of marriage. She makes a wish for a solution to her problems.

Avery is a distant cousin who is the next in line to inherit. He is wealthy in his own right and riddled with guilt for his part in Mary’s ruination. Having been contacted by the old earl and a solicitor, he comes to the estate in hopes of being of service.

Did something in particular inspire this story?

A.S. : Ellora’s Cave had a Regency book call for submissions. I love the idea of two people living within circumstances that should rip them apart and feed into a mutual hatred. Then you thrust them together and see what happens.

Wishing Game is a Blush romance from Ellora’s Cave, a departure from most of your other books. Why did you choose to write this sweeter romance?

A.S. : As I said, EC “called” for sweet historical. I wrote Christmas Bliss for the 2012 Christmas season and I loved writing that sweet book with all the rules and customs of the Regency ton. I do love writing erotic romance as well, but there’s something about the innocence of a cotillion story that I will always go back to. It’s a nice departure and a challenge to create a warm and engaging romantic story without the use of sex or graphic language.

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

A.S. : I hope you’ll see them all. ;) I just finished the second book of a series that began with Kane’s Bounty. It’s a paranormal erotic romance about psychics in law enforcement. I’m pretty sure the series will be called “Psychic Mates”. Joshua’s Mistake is book two and will come out this spring. I’m under contract with Ellora’s Cave to write two more for that series and I’m nearly finished with book three, Training Rain. I hope it will hit the virtual book shelves in the late summer 2014.

I have more going on that I can’t really talk about yet. I can say, I just agreed to write a big paranormal historical romance series. I expect to see the first book available summer 2014. As soon as all the i’s are dotted and t’s crossed, I will be shouting it from the highest mountaintops.

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

A.S. : It’s been my pleasure to join you, Siobhan. Thank you very much.

If you’d like a copy of Wishing Game, you can find it at:

And be sure to check out Ms. Fenichel’s other releases. Ellora’s Cave  Amazon    BN

Ms. Fenichel is gracious offering an ecopy of Wishing Game to one lucky commenter. Leave her a comment and a valid email address or Twitter handle. The giveaway is open internationally and goes from Monday March 10 2014 to 8:00 pm Pacific time Wednesday March 12.

You can find Ms. Fenichel at:







An Excerpt From: Wishing Game

Copyright © A.S. FENICHEL, 2014

All Rights Reserved, Ellora's Cave Publishing, Inc.

It would be easier to hate Avery Townsend, if he weren’t so damned nice. And why did he have to have those arresting, amber eyes? They reminded her of a painting she’d seen of a lion. She couldn’t tell if he was about to devour her or cuddle her as if she was one of the barn cats. 

Why was he encouraging her to marry? If she had a husband, he would have no inheritance. “My cousin would marry me if I wished it. He and I are very close, more like brother and sister.” 

He made a sour face. “I suppose it is not a very appealing prospect to marry a man you think of as a brother.”

“No. However, if I were smart I would do it anyway.”

He frowned. Could it be he really was worried he would lose the lands and house? The tea arrived and she did not ask the incredibly forward question. Once the maid had left the parlor, Mary poured the tea. 

“You could stay here, cousin.”

Her heart thumped wildly. “What, in this house, after my father is gone and you are the owner?” 

He did not look up from his cup. “Yes.”

“As what, exactly, Mr. Townsend?”


His strange eyes lifted and his gaze settled on hers. She had no idea what the man was thinking. “Exactly as you are now, if you choose. I shall not put you out of your home.”

“And where will you be, cousin?” She used the familiarity he requested but bit out the word so there was no doubt of her distaste. 

He stood up and moved toward the window. The rain continued to pour down. “I shall not trouble you much more than to stop and check the accounts from time to time.”
Her entire body grew hot with rage. Her voice rose in both volume and pitch. “Am I to be your mistress? Do you think me so desperate?” 

His neck grew red. When he spoke there was no doubt, she had angered him. “You misunderstand me, madam.”

She stood up and carefully placed her tea on the table. “Do I? How will it be proper in any way for me to live in this house after you take possession? It’s already scandalous that you are here before my aunt arrives.”

“It is your house.” His voice rose over hers. 

She took a step forward, refusing to be intimidated by any man. “No, sir. That is where you are wrong. When my father dies, you have the happy luck to be the heir to Heartshorn. If I stayed, the neighborhood would be aghast.” She took a deep breath. “I hope you will keep the staff on. I would hate to see them out of work after serving the Earl of Westbridge most of their lives.”

He crossed to her and stood towering over her with only inches separating them. His eyes flashed with danger, but she held her ground. Her heart raced and fear rushed to every nerve. Had she gone too far? She must learn to control her temper and stay her wicked mouth. 

She thought he might strike her, but his hand came up and touched her cheek with a gentleness she wouldn’t have equated with the man or the situation. She watched his Adam’s apple bounce several times. His mouth opened and closed and his eyes flicked from her mouth to her eyes. 

Mary could not have moved if the roof had caved in on her. She was in a trance.

He closed his eyes for a brief moment and when they opened, she could see his temper was quelled. “Forgive me, cousin.”

Thanks for stopping by and happy reading.