Showing posts with label Blog Hop. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Blog Hop. Show all posts

Monday, January 5, 2015

New Year's Blog Hop Winners


Thank you to everyone who joined us for the New Year's Blog Hop. As promised I have two winners randomly selected from my commenters.

The winner of the Year's Worth of Romance calendar is: Patricia Burleson

The winner of the Siobhan Muir Mug is: Jennifer Mathis

Again, thank you all for joining me on the blog hop and have a wonderful new year! Happy reading.

Siobhan

Tuesday, December 30, 2014

New Year's Blog Hop and New Beginnings


Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for the New Year's Eve Blog Hop. This has been a crazy difficult year for a lot of people, so why not send it out with a kick in the ass and some wonderful goodies.

Did you get an ereader of one kind or another for Christmas this year? Or is your current ereader feeling sad and lonely with no new books? You're in luck! My new release came out just before the holidays and it's all about new beginnings. It's called Take the Reins and you can find it everywhere ebooks are sold.

Social change is normal for a senator’s daughter, but affecting gender politics in centaurs wasn’t on Bethany’s agenda.

All Bethany Stanton needed was time away to think. She never imagined a walk with her horse might lead her so far from home. When she steps through a rift between worlds at an old archaeological site, she realizes she has bigger problems than marriage to the man of her nightmares. Like a herd of centaurs with distressing views on gender equality and “mythical” humans.

As part of the Supernatural Anomalies Investigative Field Unit, Major Stephen “Mack” McMacken has seen and done more weird stuff than written in a science fiction novel. When called in to track down a U.S. Senator’s missing daughter, Mack figures it’s more a case of runaway rich girl than supernatural mystery. Until his team finds the portal and he’s nearly torched by a dying phoenix.

In a world ruled by mythical beasts, Mack and Bethany find themselves on trial for endangering the centaur village. With the only escape route they know gone, working together to establish their innocence might prove easier than avoiding seductive Sirens and ravenous native beasts.

And then there’s the not-so-simple matter of finding a way back home…


But this week I have a special treat, a companion story to Take the Reins, entitled A Centaur's Solstice Wish, a sweet M/M romance about two soldiers wishing for their hearts' desires. Good thing the Goddess is listening, yes?

Ronin had never been so glad to see his erstwhile soldier in his life. Sedgewick Icetrotter had been one of the worst soldiers he'd ever trained, but he'd shown determination and persistence despite his setbacks. When he'd dislocated his left arm trying to string a bow, Ronin had seen the defeat in the younger centaur's face along with the pain. Ronin's heart ached for him, but he'd kept his words to himself.
Now Sedgewick stepped forward, arm in a sling, with more confidence Ronin had ever seen him display, and some of his tension melted away. By the Goddess, let him be able to do this. Ronin rarely prayed, but he wanted the best for Sedgewick. The man had a gentleness and beauty Ronin had never seen in any other centaur and some part of him wanted to preserve that. It would be ruined by fighting and war.
"What do we do, Sedgewick?" Bethany fixed her green-brown gaze on the buckskin stallion. "Do you know what caused the welts?"
"Yes, Master Bethany. They're called Winter Lace Stars and they have a bad toxin that shuts down the organs if there are enough of them." Sedgewick ran his hands lightly over the welts on Navarro's arm and the man groaned. "We're going to have to lance each one and smooth an antidotal salve over them."
"Do you know what goes into the salve?"
"Yes. My granddam taught me." He grimaced and wouldn't meet Ronin's gaze. "The problem is I can't make it with only one arm."
"I'll help you. Just tell me what you need done and I can be your extra hands."
Both Bethany and Sedgewick gaped at Ronin for a moment. Hellfire, he'd surprised himself with the outburst, but he wouldn't go back on his offer. His men needed him and he'd do anything he could. And if you're really honest with yourself, you'd admit you want to spend a little time with Sedgewick.
Bethany was the first to recover. "Thank you, Corporal. That will be very helpful." She nodded to the injured men. "First, I'll need you to to get these men stripped so we can see the extent of the damage."
Ronin stuffed his disappointment behind a sharp nod. "Will do."
"Good. Sedgewick, please show me what you need and let's get started."
While Ronin helped Navarro and Colver undress, he kept Sedgewick in sight as the buckskin directed Bethany in a soft but sure voice. The men moaned when he lifted their shirts and armor, and he cringed in sympathy. Great, swollen welts spread across their backs from skull to tail, disfiguring them in red sores.
Medicinal scents accompanied the grind of a pestle against a mortar bowl, and Ronin turned just as Bethany called for him.
"Can you please grind this while I prepare the salve base, Corporal?"
"Yes, of course, Master Healer."
Ronin took the pestle as the human woman gave him a friendly smile and he tried to smile back, but Sedgewick's presence beside him made it difficult. Oh, for the love of Epona, I should be able to do one simple task. He bent to it, putting his strength and focus into the action of grinding the medicinal herbs. He almost jumped when someone laid a hand on his forearm.
"Firmly, but gently, Corporal. Marble isn't as good as the herbs for healing." Sedgewick's voice held amusement as well as warmth.
Heat blossomed across Ronin's cheeks and chest. "Forgive me, Sedgewick. My concern is with my men."
Sedgewick lost his smile and nodded, releasing Ronin. Ronin regretted his words immediately and cursed himself for a nervous fool.
"Of course, Corporal. But if you grind them too much, they lose potency." Sedgewick nodded to the mortar. "I think they're ready. Bring them to the fire, please."
Ronin dutifully followed his former soldier and brushed the crushed herbs into a pot of boiling water. Sedgewick nodded and stirred them with a soothing rhythm, his good arm flexing in ways that set Ronin's heart galloping. Sweet Goddess, what I'd give to feel his arms around me.
Ronin mentally balked at the uncharacteristically tender thoughts and shook his head. "Must you keep stirring?" The question came out harsh, but Sedgewick smiled.
"Yes. It's necessary to boil them down to their essences." He shrugged. "Long work, but worth the effort."
They stood side by side, watching Sedgewick stir the pot of herbs in a companionable silence. His motions added a level of comfort to Ronin's world, an unusual sensation, and one he'd sorely missed. It reminded him of times spent with his dam while just a wee colt, when she'd ruffled his hair and told him he'd someday find a mare of his own to stable.
Ronin mentally shook his head. Despite his mother's prediction, he'd never been interested in mares or mating. His focus had been on the military life with his brothers-in-arms. He'd striven to be the best soldier and leader to those who depended on him. It had been all he needed.
Until now.
Ronin's gaze rested on the bunching muscles of Sedgewick's arm and an unbidden desire for touch welled up in his chest. Ronin wanted Sedgewick by his side and in his barn, sharing the military life with him. Even if he does make a terrible soldier. He took a breath to say something, but an uncharacteristic fear closed his throat. Fear that Sedgewick would find his interest unwelcome. The buckskin stallion had never shown a proclivity for male-male interaction.
Please, Goddess, give me this one chance.


I hope you enjoyed and this story will be available at the end of January 2015. But let's get to the good stuff - GIVEAWAYS! I'm offering a Siobhan Muir A Year's Worth of Romance 2015 wall calendar and a Siobhan Muir coffee mug to two separate winners. All you need to do to win is comment with an answer to this question: What new beginning are you going to try in 2015?


Leave your email address or Twitter handle (so I can contact you if you win) with your comment. The giveaway goes from December 31, 2014 to January 4, 2015 6:59 pm EST, and is open to U.S. and Canada only. You must be 18 yrs or older to win and please void where prohibited. Hopefully you came from Karen Michelle Nut's blog and if you click on the button below, you'll move on to the next blog and the next chance to win.

Happy reading!


Sunday, October 5, 2014

Mix Up Some Romance Blog Hop


Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for the Mix Up Some Romance Blog Hop.

Ah fall. This is my favorite time of year and the best time to be in the kitchen baking up goodies. Why? Heats up the house without any extra effort. :D At this time of year when the weather is heading toward cold, sometimes the simple act of baking and cooking leads to healing of both heart and body. It's the case in my paranormal romance, The Beltane Witch, where a little magic, mayhem, and motherhood can ease anyone's heart.

I love baking so today I'm sharing one of my favorite recipes (and Mr. SM drools each time I make these).

RECIPE: CHOCOLATE CHIP KISS COOKIES

  •  48 Hershey's Kisses (I use the Special Dark, but any kind of Kisses will do)
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) of butter or margarine, softened
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 cup mini chocolate chips (semi-sweet)
  • Chocolate Drizzle, recipe follows (optional)
Directions:
  1. Heat oven to 375 F. Remove rappers from Kisses.
  2. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla in a large bowl until well-blended.
  3. Add flour to butter mixture and blend until smooth. Stir in small chocolate chips.
  4. Mold teaspoon's worth of dough around each chocolate Kiss, covering completely. Roll between hands into a ball. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet (I usually put them on foil).
  5. Bake 10-12 minutes or until set. Cool for two minutes, then remove from sheet to a wire rack and cool completely. Makes 48 cookies.
This is where I usually stop since the drizzle is extra and not necessary for the deliciousness of the cookies. But if you'd like to add it:
 

Directions for Chocolate Drizzle:
  • Place 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon shortening in a small microwave-safe bowl.
  • Microwave at Medium (50%) for 30 seconds, stir.
  • Microwave at Medium an additional 10 seconds at a time, stirring each time, until chocolate is melted and smooth. Drizzle over completely cooled cookies.
Can you imagine eating these things with your lover? Should cure all ills. ;) And speaking of ills, check out this excerpt of magic, mayhem, and motherhood.

EXCERPT of The Beltane Witch

“What preparations do you usually make?” Darius sipped his tea as if they’d shared breakfast hundreds of times.
Sabrina rubbed her head and tried to think. “Give me a moment. My head still hurts.”
“How much?”
“Sorry?”
“How much does it hurt?” He set down his mug and stood, reaching for her head.
“More of a dull ache than anything. Oohhhh…”
The moment he touched her, comfort and heat permeated her skull and soothed the pain. She hadn’t realized how much it hurt until he relieved it. She relaxed her shoulders and leaned into his warm hands, grateful the pain had stopped.
At last he stood back and tipped her chin up. Sabrina reluctantly opened her eyes.
“Better?”
“Yes, thank you.”
Darius smiled the same sincere smile she’d seen the day before. “You are welcome.”
Damn, she wanted to fall into those eyes, let him tell her everything would be all right and believe him. Why can’t life be so easy? But she knew better. She’d be alone again in a few days.
Sabrina jerked her attention back to the subject at hand. “Okay, what I usually do is make sure there’s enough firewood for the fire, attach the ribbons to the May Pole, and make two dozen Deviled Eggs.”
“Eggs seem like an odd feast item for a fertility ritual of the Goddess.”
“Maybe, but they taste so good and we have to do something with all those eggs from Easter.”
Darius raised his eyebrow. “You celebrate Easter?”
“Yes, at least dyeing the eggs and hiding them for the girls. And we have baskets full of goodies to enjoy.”
“Oh? What’s in your basket, Sabrina?”
The way he said her name sent fire into inappropriate places. Her pussy tingled and her heartbeat sped up. What is wrong with me? All he did was say my name.
She cleared her throat and sucked down her tea to buy some time. “I prefer chocolate and essential oils, but sometimes all I get are jellybean eggs.”
He leaned toward her, his gaze smoldering, and some part of her wondered how the morning had gone from comfortable to sexy. “I’d be happy pack your basket with chocolate and essential oils, Sabrina. I find it very endearing you choose to celebrate all the holidays.” His gaze dropped to her lips and her pussy clenched.
Kiss me, kiss me, kiss me.
Darius tilted his head and reached out to tuck a stray strand of hair behind her ear. A small smile curled his lips as he cupped her cheek with his hand and drew her to him.
Darius brushed his lips against hers and her arousal hit the ceiling. He tasted of crisp autumn mornings, her favorite time of year, and she wanted to fall into his sweet flavor. She would have kept kissing if she hadn’t heard the furnace rattle and the girls loudly discussing who would put which wreath where. Reality intruded and Sabrina jerked back, her face hot.
Darius wore a similar dazed expression and they stared at each other for a few moments, trying to recollect their thoughts.
What am I doing? He’s a seductive player, a gigolo, and all he wants from me is to do the rituals. None of this is real.
“What are you doing?”


So there you have it. Now for the good parts. The Grand Prize is the KitchenAid mixer for all your cooking and baking needs, and you must sign up through the Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post. In addition, I'm offering a $10 Amazon gift card to a random commenter. To enter to win, please leave your Twitter handle or email address along with a comment answering this question: What is your favorite autumn baked treat?

You must be 18 years or older to win, and the mixer is only available to US residents. If you live outside the US and your name is drawn, you'll be awarded $100 Amazon gift card instead. Please void where prohibited. The drawing closes at 11:59 Eastern US Time October 10th 2014. To get to the other blogs on this hop, follow the link below. Good luck and happy reading! :)

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Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Mayday Book Party hosted by #MFRWorg on May 1st.


It's Time to Party!
hosted by Marketing for Romance Writers (#MFRWorg)

JOIN ME & over a dozen other authors on MAY 1st as we share excerpts from our contemporary romances. With all heat levels represented, there's something for everyone. Join in on the hourly contests and win prizes. This is a party you do not want to miss and it's going on all day on May 1st.

Confirmed Participating Authors INCLUDE:
Victoria Barbour - Vicki Batman - Paloma Beck - Gemma Brocato - Lisa Carlisle - Carly Carson - Margie Church - Karen Cino - Wendy Lynn Clark - Margo Bond Collins - Kandie Delley - Emerald - Candance Gold - Lily Harlem - Susan Jaymes - Mona Karel - Patricia Kiyono - Adriana Kraft - Jan Meredith - Siobhan Muir - Martha O'Sullivan - Skylin O'Thomas - Victoria Pinder - Irene Preston - Jana Richards - Christi Williams - Sabrina York


Watch for me at 7 pm Pacific/10 pm Eastern. I'll be sharing my book, The Beltane Witch. And I'll be offering a $10 Amazon Gift Card in my contest. Hope to see you there. Are you ready for Beltane?


Friday, December 13, 2013

A Little Christmas ICE Magic in the Home for the Holidays Blog Hop

Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for the Home for the Holidays Blog Hop hosted by MFRW bloghops.

It's that time of year again when the weather turns frightful and the company is (hopefully) delightful. Lights appear on houses and tree, and joy is everywhere. Usually.

At my house, however, it's a mad dash to get things done for the holiday. Schools want you to do all sorts of extras to help them help your kids celebrate in addition to all the White Elephant parties, Christmas Parties, and family get-togethers. I get to the point where I don't care what day we celebrate on as long as it's mellow. Hard to find that kind of peace with kids or family visiting. But with eggnog scones and sparkling apple cider, it's usually a happy time for the Muir family.

Not so much for Lily Sinclair, the heroine of Christmas ICE Magic in the Happy Holidays from the Crescent Moon Lodge Anthology. For her, life is dark, bleak, and full of sorrow since the death of her twin brother two years earlier. She doesn't feel like anywhere is home and she's just looking for one last moment of peace before she hits oblivion. Fortunately for her, her brother has a little trick up his sleeve.

EXCERPT of Christmas ICE Magic

“Oh, God, Linus, I’ve missed you so much.” She pressed her nose against his chest and tried to stop the sobs shaking her body. She only succeeded in crying harder.
“Hey, now, Lil, don’t cry. I’ve been here the whole time.” Linus squeezed her gently. “You still felt the connection, right?”
Lily pushed back a little and looked up at him. “No. What connection? You died. You were gone and my heart was empty. I was all alone. How could you do that to your younger sister?”
Linus chuckled. “I’m only older by ten minutes.”
“Still.” She thumped him in the arm with her fist. “You’re not supposed to leave your little sister by herself.”
“Yeah, well, I’m sorry about that.” He gave her a sad smile. “I didn’t know it was part of the plan or I would’ve given you a heads-up.”
Lily’s lower lip trembled. “I didn’t get to say goodbye, you big knucklehead. I was in Australia.” She shook her head and tears splashed her cheeks. “I shouldn’t have gone.”
“Bullshit.” Linus pushed her down on a nearby crystal. “You’d wanted to see what Christmas was like in the tropics and you got the opportunity.” He dropped beside her. “No one could’ve known what would happen. You can’t live your life defensively. That’s not living.”
Lily huffed a laugh, swiping at her tears. “Says the dead guy.”
He grinned. “I should know, shouldn’t I?”
“Heh. Yeah.” She rubbed her nose on her sleeve.
“Here’s the thing. I’ve been with you every step of the way, keeping an eye on you, and you’re starting to freak me out a little, Lil.” He took her hand and met her gaze, his usually dancing eyes serious. “You’re pushing too hard and it’s going to end up killing you.”
Lily pursed her lips and looked away. How could she tell her dead brother she didn’t want to live anymore? “There’s nothing really left for me…here.”
“Bullshit again.” Linus shook his head and gave her a dry look. “You have Fleur, Penny, and Elle back at the Lodge. You have Mom and Pop, who worry about all the risks you take now. All those people love you and don’t want to lose you. Hell, you have four hundred and twenty Facebook friends, right? I bet they’d notice if you were gone.”
Lily didn’t laugh. “They don’t understand. No one does. The magic is gone. You’re gone.”
“Jeez, there are days you’re dumber than a bag of hammers.”
“What?” She blinked up at him as he stood over her with his arms crossed on his chest.
“Lily, I still have a connection to you. You feel it every time you get the thrill of hang gliding or standing at the edge of Niagara Falls. That’s the magic you and I share, even now.”
“But it fades and leaves me more empty than before.”
Linus crouched before her and took her hands. “That’s because you’re trying to hold on to the past too tightly. The past is empty, there’s nothing there. You have to make new memories and experience the magic of the present. What did the old tortoise say?” Linus scrunched up his nose, narrowed his eyes, and made his voice sound old. “Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present.” He grabbed her shoulders. “Take the gift and unwrap the magic, Lily. It’s there for you, you just have to reach for it.”
The tears scalded her cheeks in burning trails. “But it’s not the same without you, Linus. My heart is empty now that you’re gone.”
“Then you’re going to have to fill it with something better, right? Take the gift, Lily. It’s Christmas, after all.” He gave her one more squeeze and stood up again. “All joking aside, it’s not time for you to give up. You have so much more you need to do and so many others who need your adventurous spirit, got me? So, instead of getting busy dying, you need to get busy living.” Linus glanced past her shoulder, a cheeky grin quirked his lips. “There’s more magic in the world than you know and you have to take a chance. You have to hang in there long enough to discover it.” He met her gaze again. “Promise me you’ll take the chance, Lil.”
She shook her head. “I can’t do it alone.”
“Yes, you can.” He glanced past her again and nodded as if in greeting. “But it looks like you won’t have to. Now promise me.”
“But—”
“Promise.” Linus crossed his arms over his chest.
“I promise.”
“Good. I’m going to hold you to that, you know.” A warm smile filled his features. “I love you, Lil. Remember you promised. I think I know someone who can help you keep it.”
“What? Who?” Lily looked over her shoulder, but she didn’t see anything beyond a bright, flickering light. When she turned back, Linus had retreated and jogged away from her through the crystals. “Linus, wait!”
She jumped up to follow him, but he only increased his pace, a loving smile on his face.
“Get busy living, Lil. And go play in the snow. It’s Christmas!”

So let's get busy living and play in the snow. There are four holiday stories in the Happy Holidays from the Crescent Moon Lodge anthology and each one should bring a smile to your face. You can find a copy of it on:
Amazon
Smashwords

In the meantime, I'm offering a $10 Amazon gift card to one lucky commenter who answers this question: Where is home for you during the holidays? For me, it's anywhere with my immediate family, my husband and kids. Please leave a valid email address or Twitter handle so I can contact you if you win. The givaway is open from 12:01 am Pacific time on Dec 13 2013 until 11:59 pm Pacific time on Dec. 15 2013, and is open internationally. You must be 18 years or older to win and please void where prohibited.

Thanks for stopping by, good luck on the hop, and happy reading! :)

Sunday, October 20, 2013

Big Cocks and Broomsticks Halloween Hop


Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for the Big Cocks and Broomsticks Halloween Hop. Sounds naughty, doesn't it? It just might be.

Have you ever wondered how werewolves and vampires celebrate Halloween? What would they dress up as? What do they think are mythical creatures?

I stopped by the little town of Callowwood, Nevada last weekend and asked some of my favorite Moon Singer residents what their costumes would be this year.

Julianna Lightfoot nee Morris: "HAHAHAHAHAH. Holy Goddess, I haven't even thought about it. What happens when you are the monsters they've been warning you about?" *shakes head* "I think I'll go as Lady GaGa this year. She's sufficiently weird, and she's human...I think." *looks worried*

Jeff Lightfoot: "I'm going as a dog catcher. I get a kick out of the nervous looks from some of the betas when I walk around with my tranq gun and leash with collar." *winks*

Tawny Lightfoot: "I'm going as Elvira, Mistress of the Night. I'm pretty sure I can get my boobs to do that. Goddess knows I have to match my Luna." *grins*

Eloise Farkas: "I think I'll be a zombie bride. It's really the only way I'm likely to get married at this point." When I asked her what happened to her engagement to Tommy Scatterstone, she raised an indignant eyebrow at me and said, "Yeah, what do you suggest happened?"

Kyle Howler: "I'll be dressing up as a werewolf - you know, the goofy kind, wearing torn up clothes and a cheesey mask that looks vaguely like an ape. That should piss off a few folks."

Sabrina Westwind: "I'll be dressing up as Siobhan Muir, paranormal romance author." *winks* "I hope this gets her on the ball to write Kyle and Eloise's story."

Eep! And on that note, I'd best get after it. But first, here's the blurb to Queen Bitch of the Callowwood Pack.

Julianna Morris didn’t know werewolves existed…until she became one.

Hiding her new identity, Julianna returns home only to find her teenage crush, Jeff Lightfoot, is the future Alpha of the Callowwood werewolf pack. She’s unexpectedly chosen as a candidate for the pack’s next Luna, the Alpha female—and Jeff’s mate. This is perfect, except Julianna knows nothing about being a werewolf, and someone’s determined to make her fail the Seven Tests of the Luna.

Jeff Lightfoot lusted after Julianna for years, even when he thought she was human. Now she’s home and all his—if she passes the tests. She’s his True Mate and he wants no one else, but pack politics trump Mother Nature and will prevent him from choosing Julianna if she fails.

For the future she wants, Julianna must pass the tests to become Queen Bitch of Callowwood—or watch Jeff take another woman as his mate.

You can find Queen Bitch of the Callowwood Pack at:


Now for the Giveaway. I'm giving away some Hot Mojave Knights conference swag with goodies from Starla Kaye, Jacelyn Rye, Shannan Albright, Sabrina Devonshire, Lexi Ryan, Morgan Kearns, and many more who came to the con. To win, answer this question: What will you be for Halloween? Just leave your answer with a valid email address or Twitter handle. You must be 18 years or older to win, and please void where prohibited. It's open internationally, and ends 11:59 pm Pacific US time on November 11, 2013.

Plus there is a grand prize of $100 Amazon or Barnes and Noble card, winner's choice!
Second place: $50 Amazon or Barnes and Noble card,
Third place: $25 Amazon or Barnes and Noble card.
Just sign up in the raffle copter below and follow the linky list to have more chances to win. Thanks for stopping by and happy hopping!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Fall Into Romance Hop Hosted by The Romance Reviews


Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for the Fall Into Romance Hop hosted by The Romance Reviews. As authors we spend a lot of time talking about our books (and if you're learning about me for the first time, all my books are in the right hand sidebar of my blog), but we're also readers. It's how most of us started writing in the first place.

One of my favorite authors out there is Karla Doyle. I first met her on Six Sentence Sunday and she would share snippets, six sentences at a time, of her stories. I was hooked immediately, and bought the book. Then she came out with her latest release Body of Work and her snippets pulled me in so fast, my wallet complained.

Here's the blurb:

Cassie has fantasized about the ginger-haired personal trainer for months. Brian is friendly, but never more—until he appears on her doorstep and shows her how much her flirting has affected him. The more she’s with him, the more Cassie wants the fairytale, not just hot sex with the six-two hunk. She can give Brian full access to her body, but after her ex’s reaction to her explicit photography business, sharing her secrets, and her heart, isn’t an option.

Brian knows better than to break the rules. Don’t date gym members. Keep his inner beast on a leash during sex. Cassie tested his resolve on number one her first day in the gym. Shattered the second rule when he touched her. The petite pixie shares his preferences in the bedroom. She makes him laugh and love—but past mistakes haunt him, emotionally and tangibly. Cassie’s worth the price he’ll pay for breaking the rules. Now he must convince her to give him her heart.

What I loved about this book was the reality Karla gave the characters. I could really see myself as Cassie and understand her fears. She wants to be seen as beautiful and to be appreciated for what she does, not just treated as a means to an end or another notch on a bedpost. And Brian has his own fears, with real world and long lasting repercussions from the past, that keep him under the thumb of the scumbag/sleezeballs we love to hate. Their journey in this story is both frustrating and heartwarming, and you cheer for them both the whole way through. Plus, these folks are hot and sexy when they get into bed (or on the table or up against the wall) together. ;)

Karla writes hot stories with witty and funny banter. I was sucked and laughed a good portion through the book, and I so wanted these folks to succeed together. I highly recommend it as a read and as Karla Doyle as an author. She's already on my auto-buy list. :D

Vegas Dice Keychain Swag
So what does this mean for you? Well since this is a giveaway hop, I'm giving away $10 Amazon Gift Card and some fun Vegas swag to TWO lucky commenters. All you have to do is:

  • Follow my blog (under the pomegranate on the right sidebar)
  • Come like my Facebook Page
  • Leave a comment on this post with a valid email address or Twitter handle
  • Answer this question: Would you keep going to a gym just to see a handsome guy who works there?
The giveaway is open from September 13th to 11:59 PM Eastern US time September 21st 2013. My giveaway is open internationally for the giftcard and US only for the Vegas swag. Winner's choice of the black or gold dice keychain.

So are you ready to hop? Click on the button below to visit the next blog. You need to be logged in at The Romance Reviews to hop via the button. If you haven't registered, click on the button and go to the top right side of the TRR page. Registration is free. Good luck and great hopping.

The Romance Reviews Hop

Thanks for stopping by and happy reading. :)

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Lovestruck Giveaway Hop - Swoon-worthy Heroes


Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for the Lovestruck Giveaway Hop. I think I get the every time I come up with a new story idea because there's a hero (and a heroine) who I love, and want to know more about, and ultimately, want to torture until they get their HEA. Authors are an odd breed because we LOVE our characters, but we push and torture and beat them up so by the time they get what they deserve, they've been put through the ringer. But we love them all the same.

Many of my heroes come to me in dreams and give me a whole backstory with which to work. Darius Winterbourne, the hero of The Beltane Witch, did that to me. He came with laughing eyes edged with crow's feet, great broad shoulders wide enough to carry a large sword, and an arrogant confidence  which made me want to alternately smack him or snuggle with him. He also came with a recognizable face.

Sean Bean as Boromir from LoTR
Yes, he looked exactly like Sean Bean as Boromir from Lord of the Rings, complete with fancy over-tunic and hooded cloak. What I loved most about Darius was his relative fragility and strength. He'd been doing his job a long time and gotten so good at it, nothing challenged him anymore, and he'd grown jaded. Until he meets Sabrina Foxglove. In my dream, it was me, but the combination of confidence and strength mixed with flaws and hidden vulnerability sucked me in and had me smitten.

Here's an excerpt of The Beltane Witch from Darius's POV.

Skating turned out to be a comedy of errors and Darius found it easiest to watch Sabrina and her children from the edges of the rink. He took pleasure in exchanging the hideous skates for his comfortable boots. Bloody awful things. Holly and Tansy were masters at the sport and Darius grudgingly admitted admiration for their coordination. Sabrina floated like an angel across the wooden floor and he caught himself gaping like a fool.
Sabrina’s mahogany brown hair waved behind her in a silken tail, a few wisps escaping the band holding it at the nape of her neck. He knew the softness of those tresses and his fingers ached to trail through them again. When had she become more beautiful than most of the Fae lasses with whom he’d dallied? She didn’t have their willowy physique, her beauty more grounded in an earthy solidity he preferred. He liked her strength and resourcefulness as well as her unwillingness to bow to every one of his wishes. She represented a challenge and it interested him far more than a biddable female.
Watching her laugh with her children struck a chord in his chest and he rubbed a hand over his heart with a groan. An odd mixture of yearning and hope bloomed inside, followed swiftly by fear and despair. When had he started wanting a family? Why did this little witch affect him so strongly? Her very humanity made it impossible for them to be together. He’d outlive her by centuries—he already had—and he had his duty to the Sidhe Summer Court. He couldn’t set it all aside for one human witch.
But the yearning refused to abate when Sabrina and her daughters rolled off the rink’s floor, laughing and chattering about how fast they could go. Sabrina’s eyes sparkled with love and joy for her children, and Darius wished she’d look at him with such emotions.
Like she did in my dream. He kept strong control over his wayward cock and hoped his expression remained relaxed and pleasant.
“Mom, can we get some hot cocoa and cinnamon buns afterwards?” Tansy looked up hopefully as she worked on removing her skates.
“I don’t know.”
“Pleeeese?” Holly piped up. She tried to jump up and down, but her skates shot her feet out from under her and she toppled backwards with a frightened squeak.
“Steady, Miss Holly.” Darius caught her and cradled her in his arms. A sudden protective instinct gripped him and he squeezed her gently. “It seems wiser to take your skates off first then you may jump.”
“Okay. Thank you.” Holly’s politeness always surprised him. He’d never encountered such good-natured children.
We were never so polite until after Father left.
The old anger tried to rise again, but he stuffed it away. Holly’s and Tansy’s father had run out on them as well and he’d be damned before he left them in the lurch.
What am I thinking? I won’t be here past Beltane. But he wanted to stay for more than just their mother’s hot body. He wanted to stay to teach them about… What? What do you know more than Courtly intrigue and manipulation? He shoved the snarky voice away. He wanted to stay with Sabrina and help her raise her children. He had no idea where the certainty came from, but it left a warm spot in his chest and he smiled as he helped Holly sit down. “Would you like some help with your laces?”

See? So strong, and yet so vulnerable and lovable. Sigh...

So, want to read more? Now you have the opportunity. I'm offering a $15 Amazon giftcard to one lucky commenter who answers this question: Which hero from which book got you smitten the first time, and why?

You must leave a valid email address or Twitter handle in your comments to be entered in the drawing. If you can't wait that long read more of the story, you can find The Beltane Witch at All Romance Ebooks, Amazon, B&N, Smashwords, and Kobo Books.

The giveaway runs from August 14 2013 to 11:59 pm August 20 2013 Pacific time. You must be 18 or older to win and the giveaway is open internationally. Please void where prohibited. I will announce the winner here on the blog after randomly choosing a comment. And don't forget to visit all the blogs on the linky list. Over 130 chances to win great goodies.

Good luck, thanks for stopping by, and happy reading! :)

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Sinful Sirens Giveaway Hop


Welcome to the Weird, the Wild, & the Wicked for the Sinful Sirens Giveaway Hop hosted by Under the Covers Book Blog. Ready for some hot summer reading? Now you have over 150 chances to win books and goodies from authors and bloggers. Woot!

I'm going to keep this short and sweet (since you have so many other folks to visit) and give you a little, hot excerpt from my newest release, Not a Dragon's Standard Virgin, a bestseller in M/F romance on Bookstrand.com.

Here's the 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?

Excerpt:

He tried to smile around the heat of her satin skin against his hand, but he feared it came out more of a grimace. She swallowed hard and squeezed his hand, and he resisted the need to bury his nose in the sweet flesh of her neck.
He had to be a gentleman. When have I ever been a gentleman?
“Peace, Isabelle. I only wanted you to be sure of your resolve.” He stroked her cheek with his free hand and smiled. “And you may call me Jon.”
“Right, then. Jon. Shall we get started?” She rose and grasped the laces of her cincher in tight fingers.
“Easy, lassie.” He stood and held her hands still, the tension humming through her. “There’s no need to rush this.” He drew her back to the bed and sat down. “Come. Sit between my legs and let me help you relax.”
“Between your… Isn’t that where your—” She gestured at his tenting kilt and blushed.
“My what, Isabelle?”
“You know.” The red spilled down her throat and flushed her bosom. He wondered if it carried on straight to her pussy. “Your manly bits.”
He wanted to laugh at her choice of words, but he didn’t wish to anger her. “There are many names associated with my ‘manly bits,’ but it’s most commonly called a ‘cock,’ and yes, that’s where I carry it.”
“Cock.” She repeated the word in her husky voice, and his said anatomy flexed with her attention. “Does it have a mind of its own, then?”
“What?” Where had she learned such things as a virgin?
“Well, it just moved.” She gestured at his groin, and he resisted the urge to cover it with his hand.
He let out a startled laugh. “Actually, my dear, it often responds when called by name, and you said it so well. It couldn’t help but take notice.”
A mischievous smile curled her lips and damn near curled his toes. “Cock.”
True to form, his dick flexed again and his arousal swelled. Her sassy confidence grabbed far more than her sweet innocence. She’d fought years of tradition within this human community to come to his room, and now added some wanton wench into the mix. Sweet Goddess, this might be better than he’d expected.
“That’s exactly how to say it, lassie.” Her smile shot straight to his balls. “Now then, let’s take off that cincher so you may relax, and you can learn the feel of my body.” And I can enjoy yours.
He reached for her laces, but she pulled back a little. “I can get them.”
“I’m sure you can, Isabelle, but it’s more fun if I do. Will you permit me?” Jonarrion stared into her beautiful eyes and waited for her decision. She bit her lip again, and he had to bite his tongue to keep from moaning. Hellwinds, she’s sexy.
“Very well, Jon.” Isabelle sidled closer, and he inhaled her woman’s scent.
She had a wild, earthy scent like a rainy spring forest, or the shores of a windswept loch. Blended with it were the more mundane scents of cooking oils, fresh bread, and ale. His heart ached with nostalgia for home, and he closed his eyes, imagining her tending his hearth. How does she smell so good?
“Are you well, Jon?”
He opened his eyes to realize he’d pressed his cheek against her belly as he held her hips. What was wrong with him? He’d never lost track of his actions with a lover before. He glanced up at her and smiled. At least she hadn’t shoved him away.
“Aye, better than well. Intoxicated.”
He loosened her laces and released her breasts, the full globes bouncing gently under her chemise as he pulled away her stays. His mouth watered, but he kept his eyes on hers and settled his hands on her hips.
“You’re lovely, Isabelle.”
She snorted softly. “Right.”
“’Tis true, sweets. See what you do to me.” He drew one of her hands down to his kilt and tried not to thrust into her palm. “I don’t grow this hard unless I find a lassie beautiful.” He scooted back a little and patted the bed between his legs. “Come. Sit.”
“Are you sure I won’t hurt you with such a malady?”
“Malady?” He laughed. “Nay, lassie, it doesn’t pain me to be hard.” Unless it’s all night long. “You sitting here will only bring me pleasure.” He patted the bed again.
She turned slowly, and he enjoyed the swell of her arse in her skirt, but he especially enjoyed it when it settled against his rigid shaft. They sighed at the same time, and he couldn’t help but wrap his arms around her waist.
“Ah, that’s lovely, Isabelle.”
“You’re so warm.” She snuggled back against his chest, and he tightened his hold on her.
Why did she feel so good there? He brushed her hair aside and dipped his head, trailing small kisses across her neck and shoulders. She gasped and stiffened with the brush of his lips on her skin, and he paused, inhaling her delicious scent.
“What are you doing, Jon?”
“I’m kissing you, sweet Belle. Is there something amiss?” Other than his raging cockstand and his unusual lack of control.
“Nay, not amiss. Just…strange.”
“Strange, how?” He slid his fingers over her shoulder and across her collarbones, reveling in the smoothness there.
“I feel strange, as if everything is tight and loose all at once.” She shivered when his hand dipped lower and cupped her breast.
“Are you well, Isabelle?”
She inhaled and nodded sharply, gathering up her courage.
“I’m fine.”
He dropped his hand to her waist again, rubbing in small circles. “We can take this slower if you need to.”
“Och, nay. ’Tis better to get it over with.” She straightened her shoulders and waited as if facing her execution.
“I don’t want to get it over with, Isabelle.” He pushed a strand of auburn hair behind her ear and turned her head to meet his gaze. “This might be a business transaction to you, but it still should be pleasant. If you find it too distasteful, we can stop.”
“Nay, not distasteful.” She turned and knelt between his knees, her arms resting on his thighs. “Just strange and…and I don’t know what to do. I feel useless.” She dropped her chin. “I haven’t learned the art of being with a man—not that I wished to. Oh bother!” She sat back on her heels and wrapped her arms around her waist, pushing those lovely breasts up until he wanted to shove his cock between their full embrace.
“What do you wish to do, Isabelle?”
“Lose my virginity, o’ course.”
“But?” Jonarrion reached out to tip her chin up so he could meet her eyes. “What else?”
“How do you know there’s aught else?”
He drew his thumb across her full lower lip, and his cock twitched at her gasp. “Because you strike me as a woman who takes pride in your abilities to accomplish your tasks. What more do you wish to accomplish?”
Isabelle sighed and smoothed the fabric of her skirt. “I wish I knew how to pleasure you.”
Exquisite joy and pleasure surged through his chest at her courage. Done. “Ah, my sweet Belle, then you have succeeded already.”

How would you like a sexy guy to teach you about being a sexual goddess? I think I see a few hands out there waving and voices screaming "I volunteer!" :D

Since this is a giveaway hop, I'm offering a PDF copy of Not a Dragon's Standard Virgin to one lucky commenter who follows my blog and answers this question: If you'd been able to choose anyone, either living or fictional, with whom to lose your virginity, who would you have chosen at the time?

The giveaway runs from Midnight Pacific Time on May 15 to 11:59 pm Pacific May 20th and is open internationally. You must be 18 years or older to win and please void where prohibited. Be sure to leave a valid email address or Twitter handle in your answer so I can contact you if you win.

Don't forget to visit all the other blogs on the hop - over 150 chances to win! Thanks for stopping by and happy reading. :)

Monday, April 15, 2013

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...



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...