Cover Reveal! Cup of Sugar by Karla Doyle

Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for a very special event. My friend Karla Doyle, an erotic romance author who infuses her books with humor, has asked me to help show off her gorgeous new cover art for her upcoming release, Cup of Sugar.

This is the first book in her new Close to Home series and it's bound to be good. Karla's books will make you laugh, and remind you there are still great things in the world. :)

Here's the blurb:

After several failed relationships, Nia has one rule—don’t date neighbors. Simple, except the guy next door is single, handsome, and not inclined to close his blinds while naked. When her car dies, Conn takes “being neighborly” to a new level by offering a ride to her long-distance destination. Nia has resisted his looks and charm for months. Surely she can handle a few hours in his truck…

For months, Conn has blatantly put himself on display, hoping his pretty blonde neighbor would tire of secretly watching and come knock on his door for a cup of sugar—or more. No such luck—until an unusual opportunity arises. After a six-hour drive turns into a sweet-and-sexy weekend, Conn wants more than neighborly status with Nia. To get it, he must convince her to break the rule protecting her heart—by putting his on the line.

You can find Cup of Sugar on Goodreads and you can add it to your "want to read" shelf.
Goodreads

And to keep up with Karla, you can find her here:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Google Plus
Goodreads
Amazon
Pinterest

EXCERPT

Well, look at that—Nia’s little Chevy, its lights on, but not running. Perfect timing.

Conn pulled into his side of the joined driveway and parked beside her car. For the eight months since she’d moved in next door, the twenty-four feet of asphalt separating their houses had been almost impassable. Whenever he got close to crossing the distance, something or somebody got in the way. A time-consuming sideline job he couldn’t afford to pass up. Phone calls from his family that he had to answer. His pissed-off ex-girlfriend dropping by to unleash her rage. Yeah, that last one had particularly sucked. 

The times he’d had the opportunity to speak to Nia, she’d blushed throughout their brief, casual conversations, bolting as soon as she had the chance. Polite, neighborly waving seemed to be her preferred method of communication. 

But he’d caught her looking his way. Many times. The pretty blonde’s ability to fry his circuits with her stolen glances had had Conn on high alert for months. Hell, he’d purposely put himself on display—doing all kinds of things—hoping she’d get tired of secretly watching and come knocking on his door. She never did.

He wasn’t one for making New Year’s resolutions, but this opportunity called for one. Tonight, he resolved that Nia wouldn’t get away so easily.

His steel-toed boots hit the snow-covered ground. Not much accumulation yet, but the forecast called for six inches before the calendar rolled over at midnight. He’d shovel it before it piled up, then again later, when it quit coming down. He’d do Nia’s side of the driveway too, as he did whenever she didn’t beat him to the job. She was a petite thing, but never shied away from property maintenance. Such as climbing a ladder to clean out the eaves troughs—which she’d done wearing cut-off jean shorts and a pale-pink, body-hugging tank top. Best day in all of August, that one.

He left the shopping bags in the back of his truck and cut between their vehicles. The groceries could wait a few. Spotlights mounted on Nia’s backyard pergola illuminated most of the driveway. She hadn’t started her engine, nor had she gotten out of the car. Intentionally avoiding him? If so, about time he found out why. 

He bent and peered through the window, giving a light rap on the glass as he did. “Hey, neighbor.”

Her muffled “hello” was as soft as Conn imagined her skin and hair would be—if she ever let him close enough to find out. Her gloved hands gripped the hell out of the steering wheel. The keys dangled from the ignition. Small clouds formed and dissipated as she breathed the cold air. She darted another glance at him, but didn’t move.

“Everything okay, Nia?”

Her shoulders slumped and a larger puff of fog left her lips. “My car won’t start.”

Chalk this one up as a late Christmas present from the universe. He motioned at the passenger door. She nodded in response, so he opened it, stuck his head and shoulders inside. “I’m at your service. I can jump you or give you a ride.”

She squeaked—actually squeaked—and the frost melted from her expression. Oh, she was still pink in the cheeks, the color just didn’t look cold-weather-induced. Maybe this New Year’s Eve wouldn’t completely suck after all.

Thanks for stopping by. Keep an eye out for Cup of Sugar. Happy reading. :)

Cover Reveal! Penance by Ann Mayburn

*SQUEEEE!* Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for a very special event. My friend Ann Mayburn, a hot and prolific erotic romance author, has asked me to help show off her gorgeous new cover art for her upcoming release, Penance.

This is the sequel and conclusion to the Still: Long, Slow Tease 1. Do you like FemDommes in BDSM tales? Ann writes them very well and I loved Still. The expected release date is March 6th 2014. I can hardly wait.

If you'd like to read the first story in this two book series, here's the blurb:

The story of a forbidden love forged in the heat of battle, a war hero haunted by PTSD, and the Dominatrix who won't admit her love for him, yet can't live without him kneeling at her side.

Dr. Michelle Sapphire and Gunnery Sergeant Wyatt Callahan formed an unbreakable bond and an unacknowledged, forbidden attraction to each other while serving together in Afghanistan. Their lives are forever changed when a mortar attack grievously wounds Wyatt and Michelle brings him back from the brink of death. But when they both return to the civilian world, Michelle discovers that her rock-solid Marine is suffering from severe PTSD and may even be suicidal.

Wyatt Callahan fell hard for the aristocratic blonde doctor the moment he laid eyes on her. After reentering civilian life in his hometown near Austin, Texas, Wyatt is plagued by nightmares of the death and suffering he witnessed during the war. He'd love to reach out to Michelle, but Michelle is a Dominatrix, and she has made it very clear to Wyatt she isn't interested in a relationship with anyone who doesn't accept her lifestyle. An Alpha male to the core, he can't imagine the appeal of being submissive. At the same time, the idea of serving Michelle, of being everything she wants and needs, rings true in his wounded soul.

Michelle has dark secrets of her own, and together with Wyatt she will have to battle her personal demons during their emotional journey of healing, redemption, and love.

You can find Still: Long Slow Tease 1 at:
Amazon
All Romance Ebooks
Barnes&Noble
Kobo Books
Smashwords

Thanks for stopping by. Keep an eye out in March for Penance. Happy reading. :)

Author Spotlight: Mellanie Szereto, Contemporary Romance Author and Giveaway

Good morning. Today I have to opportunity to introduce multipublished author Mellanie Szereto. I found Mellanie on Facebook when I realized her name means "Love" in Hungarian. We started talking about geology and cooking Chicken Paprikas. Which brings me to Mellanie's new release, Love Served Hot. Flynn Hastings is getting back in the kitchen and Lilith Montgomery is just the person to show him what's cookin'. Mellanie has generously offered an excerpt and a giveaway for you to enjoy.

But first, the Blurb for Love Served Hot:

As acting director of her uncle’s retirement village, Lilith Montgomery must hire a chef for the new restaurant. She’s interviewed several candidates, but instantly decides on the sexy Irishman whose culinary creations give her foodgasms. Her rotten luck with relationships makes her determined to resist her attraction to him, even if it means sneaking into the kitchen at night for a taste of his delectable entrées.

Flynn Hastings is finally getting his life back on track after a year of anger and guilt over his sister’s death. He’s returned home to be near his family and has found the perfect job—with one small problem. His boss makes him want to cook in more than the kitchen. Putting aside his hard and fast rule about mixing business with pleasure, he sets his sights on Lilith, hoping their budding friendship turns out to be more than a flash in the pan.

EXCERPT of Love Served Hot:

A glance toward the dark dining room brought him up short as he strolled past. Light filtered onto the carpet from beneath the serving door to the kitchen and through the porthole window.

Had he forgotten to flip off the switch when he left earlier?

He’d been distracted enough.

He backtracked down the hallway to the other entrance. As he lifted his hand to push the door open, a noise came from the other side.

Was that a moan?

Geesh. Please don’t tell me old people are having sex in my kitchen.

And why do I smell tomatoes and basil?

Hesitant about whether or not to enter, he strained to hear another sound.

“More. I want more.”

Was that Lilith’s voice? Did she have a guy in there with her?

Not if I can help it!

He shoved the door open and stepped into the room, shading his eyes against the brightness. A squeak brought his attention straight to the woman in question, her face half hidden behind a tipped-up carryout box. Only her wide green eyes were fully visible. She lowered the container, revealing flushed cheeks and a dab of red sauce on her chin.

He strode into the kitchen, grabbing a towel on his way to the sexiest female he’d ever met. Wiping away the drop of sauce, he bit the inside of his lip to hold in a combination of lust and amusement.

She liked his food.

No, she loves my food.

The week of not showing up for meals in the restaurant had nothing to do with his cooking.

Was she avoiding him because she wanted him as much as he wanted her?

Hope built in his chest—and lower.

Her gaze skittered away from him. “I was hungry. I didn’t have time to eat supper. You said I could help myself whenever…”

He took the licked-clean box from her to set it on the counter. “I did, and you can. Did you enjoy it?”

She nodded slowly, the tip of her pink tongue snaking out to lick the corner of her mouth. “It was delicious.”

The sensual action could’ve been involuntary, but it sent an electrical charge straight to his dick, either way.

Was she delicious too?

The need to know proved too much, and he leaned in closer for his own taste. Sounds like those she’d made deserved to be induced by something a hell of lot more interesting than campanelle and ports.

Soft, full lips met his, stealing his sanity and making his heart race. She raked her fingers through his hair, tugging him against her full breasts as her tongue slipped between his teeth.

Wrapping his arms around her, he held her in place, letting the mixture of spices from the entrée and the sweet flavor of Lilith feed his hunger. He rubbed his tongue over hers, relieved to finally be able to kiss her. Barely keeping a tight rein on his reaction, he rocked his hips forward, rubbing his erection against her hip. Damn, but he wanted to be inside her.

I need to be inside her.

Her hand closed over his butt, guiding him away from her hips and to her center. She arched against him, and a growl escaped him.

Mellanie is graciously offering a $10 Amazon gift card to one luck commenter who answers this question: What is your favorite holiday treat? Please leave a valid email address or twitter handle for us to contact you if you win. The giveaway goes until 11:59 pm Pacific time on Wednesday, Dec. 11 2013 and you must be 18 years or older to win. Please void where prohibited.

If you'd like to read more of Love Served Hot right now, you can find it at:
Smashwords
Amazon
All Romance eBooks
B&N

Mellanie's newest release is Love Served Hot, the first book in the Love on the Menu series. Look for Red Hot Pepper and Hot Tamale Nights in the coming months, as well as the short erotic novel series, Love on the Menu…With Extra Spice!

For Mellanie Szereto

When her fingers aren't attached to her keyboard, Mellanie Szereto enjoys hiking, Pilates, cooking, gardening, and researching for her stories. Many times, the research partners with her other hobbies, taking her from the Hocking Hills region in Ohio to the Colorado Rockies or the Adirondacks of New York. Sometimes, the trip is no farther than her garden for ingredients and her kitchen to test recipes for her latest steamy tale. Mellanie makes her home in rural Indiana with her husband of twenty-seven years, their two children, and two cats. She is a member of Romance Writers of America, Indiana Romance Writers of America, Hearts Through History Romance Writers, and PASIC.

You can find her here:
http://www.mellanieszereto.com
On Facebook
On Twitter
On Goodreads

Thank you for stopping by and happy reading! :)

5 Question Interview of a New Adult Romance Author - Morgan Knight

Welcome back to the Weird, the Wild, and the Wicked. Today I have the honor of hosting new adult romance author Morgan Knight with her newest release, Walking Into Darkness. Morgan and I have known each other for a while and we share the love of the weird and off the wall. Morgan is graciously offering the chance to win a copy of her book and an Amazon gift card.

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

Thank you for having me!

What started you on the path to writing new adult romance?

I’m not sure why I am drawn to the genre since, cough, I’m a couple years away from the sucky number 40. Maybe I yearn to stay young. Yeah, I bet that’s correct. I’ve tried to hold at 29 for years and it isn’t working! LOL. What I enjoy most about new adult is that I can sprinkle in life lessons I’ve learned. I hope they are subtle and somehow help younger readers. Or maybe it’s because I’m a mom and don’t want to see others make the same mistakes. Who knows? I will say that I am very young at heart and at times can’t believe I’m, cough, close to 40.

Congratulations on your release of Walking Into Darkness. Introduce us to the main characters and premise of your story.

The main character is Samantha Wright, a college graduate who has been unsuccessful at landing at job. Her life hasn’t been typical and all she yearns for is happiness and to be accepted the way she is. The premise of the story is her journey after moving back home and finding out disturbing information about her family, an ancient prophesy, and a twin sister named Sadie that may or may not be alive. During her quest to unravel the secrets, Samantha meets William, a hot priest to be. William wants to be her knight in shining armor and fights the desire to be more than just Samantha’s friend. As the two delve into the world of ancient prophesies, Samantha’s life is put in danger, and William’s oath to the church is as well. All in all, the story is one of finding love, even with the most unlikely of people. It is also about finding acceptance and happiness.

Did anything in particular inspire this story?

I think the biggest inspiration for this story comes from my own battles when I was younger. Mind you, I didn’t come from a family like Samantha’s, but I struggled to find my way, overcome the pain of the past, and all I ever yearned for was happiness. My road, much like Samantha’s, was full of potholes and detours. My life has been about self discovery and understanding that although flawed, I’ve overcome and found my rainbow. I hope the story is a reminder to readers that there are times when life looks bleak, and at times it seems to continually get worse, but we should push on, because we never know what life has in store for us.

That's a great wish. With your studies of myth and religion, did you discover anything surprising about yourself?

I’ve studied history and religions for years. I grew up very southern, attending services, and yet something has always been missing. My research was an attempt to understand religion better and how it came about. I wanted to understand why prayers aren’t answered, why some are destined to be left behind while others bloom and find happiness. I must say, for years I was a very miserable person. When I finally realized that my happiness depended on me and myself only, life got better. I am in control and I take responsibility. Not to offend anyone, but my research into ancient religions was a real eye-opener. I respect others and their beliefs, and hope others will respect my decision as well. My life and outlook changed the day I quit trying to please someone else. So to answer your question, in my research, I found out that I am Agnostic and it surprised the hell out of me. I can say with certainty, I’ve been a happier person since I accepted it.

I'm so glad you found something that fits well with you, Morgan. What other projects are on the horizon for you that we’re likely to see?

Coming up will be Sadie’s Story as the prophesy continues to be revealed and you will learn more about my Gothic dressed cutie.

That sounds great. Thank you for joining me today, Morgan, and we look forward to all your upcoming releases!

Morgan is graciously offering an e-copy of her book to one lucky commenter. She didn't have any specifics, but to be eligible to win, you must leave a comment and follow both mine and Morgan's blogs. The giveaway will run until Friday September 13 2013 at 8:00 pm Pacific time, so comment away. You can follow my blog under the pomegranate on the right sidebar. To follow Morgan's, click on the link.

If you can't wait that long and would like a copy of Walking Into Darkness, you can find it at:

Amazon

You can find Morgan at:

Blog

Facebook

Twitter

EXCERPT

William gently shut the door as I kicked off my shoes. I felt him behind me and shuddered. He placed his hands on my shoulders and pressed against my back. Gentle kisses on my neck made me hum immediately. The heat from his body warmed me and I felt his hard length push into my back.

“I need you.” William whispered into my ear.

A rush of wetness built between my thighs. I allowed a soft sigh to escape when he squeezed both my breasts and flicked his thumbs over my nubs. Inside I was screaming for more. I reached around to grab hold of his hips, pulling him tighter to me. We began to move, rubbing our bodies together, taking as much pleasure as we could from just touching.

I’ve never wanted anything or anyone so much. My pulse increased and my breathing came in quick bursts. William lifted my shirt, taking it off. Without delay his hands were back on my skin. Everywhere his fingertips touched left my skin tingling. He turned me around and lowered his mouth to mine. Urgency flooded between us as our kiss became hungry. We moaned as our tongues slid together, lips pressing roughly together.

I needed to feel his skin on mine. My hands tugged his shirt from his jeans. I started to fumble with the buttons. My fingers trembled so hard I couldn’t even complete the simple task. Fuck it! I grabbed the shirt and yanked, sending buttons flying. Light pings sounded where they crashed to the floor. William growled, kissing me harder.

Our hands explored and teased. The passion between us had built up so much we couldn’t stand it any longer. He unbuttoned my jeans and shoved them down in one motion. I stepped out of one leg and got my foot hung in the other side and stumbled. God, I was a clumsy mess. William caught me and pushed me down on the soft bed. I gasped. I felt as though my heart would explode.

“Let me help you with those,” William stated in a voice so deep and thick with passion, my body hummed with delight.

He slowly pulled my jeans and panties off, dropping them to the floor. I was mesmerized by the sight of him. Tall, lean, and built to perfection. His plump lips curved into a sensual grin as he began to unbutton his jeans. I quivered and watched, almost demanding that he hurry up. The zipper eased down at a snail’s pace, and my stomach flip flopped with enthusiasm.

“Gorgeous.” I exhaled the word as he pushed his jeans and boxers down. Muscles rippled down his stomach, flexing, delighting my eyes. He was perfection, from his sexy tousled hair, deep chocolate eyes, and plump lips to his fit and toned body. I dare guess, but if a god designed William, I was grateful and in awe of him.

William’s erection popped out, and I couldn’t help but gasp loudly. Hot moisture continued to build at the apex of my legs. He held himself and lightly stroked his length as I watched. I wiggled my finger for him to come to me. I scooted back on the bed and he followed. He crawled forward slowly, with fierce eyes, a predator victorious with his prey in his sights. He was large and opposing compared to me. The soft light of the moon highlighted his beautiful features. Tan skin wrapped over his magnificent body. His wide chest beckoned me to touch. He offered a devilish grin as he lower his body over mine, trapping me under him.

He stared at me for a moment as if creating a memory. His sensual eyes flickered with enjoyment before he nipped my bottom lip, teasing me. I couldn’t take it anymore. I grabbed his neck and pulled his mouth against mine. We were almost there, finally naked, in a bed, alone. I wiggled with anticipation when our tongues delved deep, hungry and wanting. William’s hand began a tortuous glide from my collarbone down over my breast, easing further to my stomach that clenched tight. It had been so long since I had been touched so intimately, but nothing could hold a candle to this experience.

Thanks for stopping by and happy reading!

Guest Post and New Release from Jess Buffett

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | SIREN | SILVER | TWITTER

Meet The Characters Of

Cowboy’s Chocolate Roses

Meet the characters Bri and Josh, and not only get a sexy snippet of a scene from the book, but a deleted scene that hints at an even hotter sequel!

Name: Brianna “Bri” Evans

DOB: September 3rd

Height: 5”10

Eye Color: Lavender

Occupation: Accountant

Bio: Bri is the daughter of a wealthy businessman. She is strong and stubborn, but finds it easy to enjoy the small things in life. For two years she has desperately fought to overcome a horrific trauma, and she is now ready to take back her life.

Name: Joshua “Josh” Kell

DOB: October 9th

Height: 6”6

Eye Color: Honey-Golden

Occupation: Ranch and business owner

Bio: Josh is the older, more responsible brother. Taking over the ranch when his parents passed, he has built it into a multi-million dollar business. But he is a simple cowboy at heart and is more than ready to settle down with the woman of his dreams.

Cowboy’s Chocolate Roses

Joshua Kell signs a deal that will set his ranch up for life and then spends the night with the woman of his dreams. Waking up alone, he returns home, nursing a broken heart.

Brianna Evans struggles to overcome a horrific trauma. After two years, she's finally taking back control of her life, but she panics when she wakes up next to Josh.

Bri has to find him again, and when she does, hopes he'll understand and forgive her for running. She wants the chance to be happy again. But when a ghost from her past threatens to take everything away, Bri has to trust her cowboy will stop at nothing to keep her safe.

BUY FROM AMAZON

EXCERPT

God, she suddenly wanted nothing else. She allowed him to pull her onto the bed beside him. Josh rolled them, holding himself above her. Leaning down, he delivered a series of soft kisses along her jaw, leading to her lips. They parted on a lustful moan and Josh took full advantage, slipping his tongue in and tangling it with hers.

Pulling back, he panted, "I won't let him near you, I swear."

"I know. Please… help me forget," she pleaded, pulling him back down.

He kissed her leisurely, whispering, "Not allowed to forget this time."

"Josh," Bri gasped as he leaned down to kiss the tender flesh of her neck.

His hands slid up and down her sides, moving higher and higher until he reached the curve of her breasts. A deep moan spilled out when Josh finally brought them around to cup her mounds.

"Josh. Please, yes…" she whispered.

Josh traced his tongue over her throat, then to her ear, nipping at it lightly. Her breath caught when he plucked at first one, then the other nipple through the flimsy material of her gown. Her legs drew up around his waist, holding him more firmly to her. Josh continued to knead her flesh, his hands abruptly drifting downwards, leaving her feeling bereft. She groaned in disappointment.

Her moan turned into a gasp when he grabbed the hem of the nightie and yanked it up and off of her. Hooking his fingers into the cotton of her panties, he pulled back long enough to slide them down and off her legs before settling back into place. She now lay naked and exposed, and she reveled in the feel of his body on top of her. A small cry left her lips when he slipped a hand between her parted legs, his fingers stroking at her folds. It had been so long.

Feeling her ready for him seemed to snap his control and Josh abruptly sat up. He undid the button of his jeans, shoving them down his hips, taking his briefs with them. He knelt between her legs, bare as she, his shaft leaking as it stood at its full length. He had to be at least nine inches. Lying on top of her, he dipped his head, his hot breath on her breast. She moaned when his mouth claimed her erect nipple, and she shuddered, clutching him tighter when he closed over the small nub and began to suck, sending shock waves of pleasure and excitement rippling through her.

Her need for him grew when his hand found its way lower and he pressed against the wet folds of her pussy again, this time parting them and finding her swollen clit. Stroking her with his thumb, he slid two fingers inside of her.

She cried out his name, "Josh!"

"God, you're so wet. So ready for me already," he groaned, thrusting his fingers deep.

"Yes. Please, I'm so ready. Take me, now," she demanded. She couldn't stand it anymore, she needed him now.

"Yes. Now," he rasped and positioned himself and drove into her.

Bri screamed out in ecstasy as she came.

BONUS “DELETED SCENE”

Here is a scene I couldn’t keep between secondary characters Mel and Caleb. It gives a sneak peek as to why there is some tension between them:

“Why do you hate me?” Caleb’s gaze bore into her, and she felt it to the very depths of her soul. She resented that.

Mel tried to move again, but he blocked her way. Sighing in aggravation, she narrowed her eyes. “Why do you suddenly care?”

There had been a time where the very thought of surrendering herself to the arms of this cowboy had made her weak in the knees. That was before she saw him for who he truly was. Knew it wouldn’t be just him she gave herself to.

“I have always cared.” He shook his head, confusion marring his handsome features. “I just can’t work out what I did. What I said.”

His breath caught when Mel leant forward, bringing her lips to his ear. “Oh, you didn’t say anything, but Lisa was more than happy to share the details.” She felt a slither of satisfaction at his shocked expression. “You know, if you and Noah are going to play around, you might want to make sure the girls know to keep it a secret.”

He stuttered. “I…we…Mel, look—”
Refusing to give him anymore of her time, she shoved hard against his solid chest. In his surprise, he stumbled back, giving her the chance to side step him and move away. Just as she reached the front door, she threw an icy glare over her shoulder. “Oh, and you both may want to learn to lock a door. You never know who may stop by for a visit. It was quite a show.”

Thanks for stopping by and happy reading!

Self-Publishing a "Bonus" Sequel Guest Post by Claire Gillian

Thank you for hosting me on my blog tour and for giving me the opportunity to talk about about my latest book:  Purely Relative, a follow-up novella to my debut, The P.U.R.E.

When I wrote The P.U.R.E. (which stands for Previously Undetected Recruiting Error), I had zero intentions of writing a sequel. That book had no major loose ends, and the couple was at least benefiting from a happy-for-now ending if not a happily-ever-after.

But a few readers asked for more, and while I had no desire to write another mystery (because they are hard work!), I found a fun little loophole in The P.U.R.E. --having the heroine Gayle meet and run the gauntlet of Jon's family as the woman who replaced his fiancée of five years.  **rubs hands together** Game on!

I got busy writing. The good news was Gayle was very easy to write as a character so long as I could put her in an underdog situation. Not a problem.

Having changed my mind about writing a sequel put me way behind from a publishing timeline, however. The P.U.R.E. released in April 2012. I started the sequel in June and piddled around with it off and on until the end of 2012. Good gravy, the one-year mark was only three and half months away!

Two dilemmas--my publisher for The P.U.R.E. asked in the contract for opportunity to publish any further stories featuring the characters. Unfortunately their turn-around time for a novel or novella would have been six months at least, which would most likely have put me into the fall or winter of this year. Not what I wanted for the readers, so I passed on going that route.

I would never have pitched book two of a series released by publisher A to faster publisher B, if there was even a willing B out there. That left...self-publishing.  **sound of record scratching and disapproving gasps**

I know, I know. Self-publishing has a rather unsavory reputation, but more and more of the top selling books are coming from self-publishers. Take a look at the New Adult age group and prepare to be amazed at how many of them are not the products of traditional publishing.

But was I prepared to do it all myself?

I was already learning Photoshop, creating phony book covers and blurbs for fun on Lila Shaw's blog (my other me). As an indie-published author, I was no stranger to self-promotion and marketing. File layouts and HTML did not scare me--I write computer programs as part of my day job. I also analyze statistics and negotiate contracts for corporate America. Setting up publisher accounts with the booksellers was no big whoop. My neighbor down the street is self-published author Tracey Jane Jackson, author of The Civil War Brides series and a most patient and enthusiastic teacher.

I had all the raw materials I needed. I could do this! And what I couldn't do, I could outsource, though my budget was small. What little money I did spend went mostly to a professional editor. The remainder went to securing royalty free stock photographs and music for the book cover and trailer. Minor costs compared to the editing, really.

The resource I spent the most on was labor. My own. Good thing I worked for free because there was definitely a learning curve to this thing called self-publishing.

Was it worth it? To have gained the knowledge from hands-on experience, absolutely. From a risk and return as far as the book itself was concerned? That remains to be seen. I hope so, but even if not, I'm very glad I tackled this project and fully intend to try again soon with additional feedback from readers, reviewers, booksellers and other industry sources.

More about the object of my self-publishing venture:

Purely Relative by Claire Gillian

Blurb:

Unemployed and living far from home, Gayle Lindley is nevertheless lucky to be alive after narrowly escaping her murderous ex-employer. She’s also thankful to the boyfriend gods for having blessed her with a former co-worker. Jon Cripps is brains, brawn and bedroom-certified, all in one delectable package. Life is finally on the uptick.

…Or so Gayle thinks until Jon pops the big question—no, not marriage, but meeting the rest of his family. What he neglects to mention is his loose familial definition also includes the parents of his ex-fiancée. And too bad Gayle has already met one sibling while engaged in a vigorous mattress inspection with Jon. Everyone will think she’s a man-stealing hussy!

As Gayle tiptoes into the bosom of Jon’s extended family, she is deluged with more secrets than even her curious nature can absorb. But the drama hits hardest when Jon, mysterious as ever, drops a bombshell that threatens to unravel every single stitch of progress she has made with him and his … ‘interesting’ relations.

Buy Purely Relative at these fine booksellers:

Amazon | All Romance Ebooks | Smashwords | Kobo | Apple iBookstore
(33% discount at ARe or use coupon code AU55X at Smashwords; Discount/coupon good until 5/15/13)

About the Author:

Claire Gillian is the pen name for a number-crunching executive by day. By nights and weekends she writes smart, witty stories for smart, witty readers. Her debut novel, The P.U.R.E. released in April 2012 and its sequel, Purely Relative, is hot off the press as of April 30, 2013. She also writes fifty shades of naughtier stuff under the pen name of Lila Shaw, but please don’t tell her mother.  No matter which name she uses, Claire is happiest penning romance drenched in humor with a dash of intrigue and loads of spice.

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