A Look At Michaela Rhua & 'Guardian Possession' ( @MichaelaRhua @breathlesspress #paranormal #erom )

Today we have author Michaela Rhua visiting. Welcome back!

What would you like to tell readers about yourself?
* Michaela Rhua always dreamed of writing but this never happened until she met the lovely group of ladies known as UCW. Their passion for writing and encouragement inspired her to see if she could do it too. Now she is multi published and loves writing!
* She has teenage children and a husband, who also keep her busy. However, it is whilst travelling into work that she has time to create her characters and imagine other places in which they exist as her world skims by the window. Conversations overheard often lead to the birth of new ideas that she scribbles down in her trusty notebook.

What book are you going to tell us about today? Is it part of a series? If so, what's the order the books should be read in?
* Guardian Possession is book 2 of the Guardian series. The first is Guardian Awakening, which starts the whole series off. Although book 2 is the next one in the series it is not imperative that you read book 1. Of course I would be delighted if readers chose to do so.

How'd you/your muse come up with this story?
* As soon as Guardian Awakening was completed I knew this next book had to be written. As I started writing the story just emerged. So I just followed along really.

Describe the hero in five words.
* Zachriel is powerful, confused, strong, tormented and lost.

Describe the heroine in five words.
*Royanne is divided, feisty, sexy, determined and needy.

Who's your favorite character in the book & why?
* Zachriel for sure. The book started out about Royanne but as I wrote it, I soon discovered that is was more about Zachriel and his life and future.

What's your favorite line in the story?
* That's a hard one! Maybe….. Fire met ice.

A look into the story

~ Blurb ~ * Royanne longs to be free of everyone's expectations. Meeting a mysterious stranger who she is drawn to confuses her. He feeds her longing to be free and ignites a fire inside of her. She is aroused by this tortured soul. When he kidnaps her and reveals his plan, she is torn between loathing him and wanting him.
* Zachriel is under orders from the Dark Master—kidnap Guardian demon Royanne. Only hiding away until the coast is clear draws him closer to her, especially as she seems to see the real man in him.
* Rescued at last, Royanne feels uncertain what to do. For Zachriel his past is revealed and he must face the truth. This truth cuts to his very soul and questions who he really is. Now he must come to terms with the lie that has been his life. Royanne fights her feelings for Zachriel. She begins to see him as a kindred spirit. There is only one thing to do reveal her love for him. Can she convince him her feelings are real and he is worth loving?
~ Excerpt ~ * He could feel she was unhappy.
* "It all helps for the future, you know." He sensed her need for freedom.
* Royanne moved her hand away, but he noticed she lingered at little as they released their grips. He had her now; her mind was his, but he needed more. A taste of her, then the link would be stronger. Damn, there were too many people passing the entrance to the alleyway for him to make his move now. If he got her wanting him enough to go to a hotel room, that would be perfect.
* He could read strands of desire in her mind. He planted more, he planted himself. This little Guardian was proving easier to manipulate than he had first thought. But what did they know of strength? All their kind was good for was the torture of the young and weak. He was no longer young or weak. The Dark Master had ensured they took care of him, nurtured, and trained to be a warrior of worth. Zach reached out and touched her bare arm lightly. With feather-like fingers, he stroked her skin. Royanne's gaze drifted to his fingers playing on her skin. She had not recoiled, which was good. He became bolder as he moved his hands to her shoulder. Her skin was warm and smooth. Zach maintained eye contact, knowing it would strengthen his bond with her. He caressed her cheek, and he slid his other hand lower to hold her curved hip and then her rounded ass. He massaged her ass cheek, and when no resistance was apparent, he lowered his lips to her pinky full lips, that called to him to kiss and claim. She seemed frozen to the spot. Yes, just as he liked them, under his control, helpless. He had her mind.

Buy Guardian Possession here...
Breathless Press

Find Michaela Rhua here...
Website
Blog
Twitter
Pinterest
Facebook

Thank you for joining us here today, Michaela! It was a pleasure getting to know you and your story.

A Look At Michaela Rhua & 'Her Type of Guy' ( @MichaelaRhua @evernightpub #erom #anthology )

Today we have author Michaela Rhua visiting. Welcome!

What would you like to tell readers about yourself?
* Michaela Rhua always dreamed of writing but this never happened until she met the lovely group of ladies known as UCW. Their passion for writing and encouragement inspired her to see if she could do it too. Now she is multi published and loves writing!
* She has teenage children and a husband, who also keep her busy. However, it is whilst travelling into work that she has time to create her characters and imagine other places in which they exist as her world skims by the window. Conversations overheard often lead to the birth of new ideas that she scribbles down in her trusty notebook.

What book are you going to tell us about today? Is it part of a series? If so, what's the order the books should be read in?
* Her Type of Guy is an anthology of short naughty stories that feature 5 authors: Doris O'Connor, Raven McAllan, Ella Grey, Morgan King and me!
* Each of us have 2 stories in the anthology and they are all stand alone so do not need to be read in any order. My titles are Snail's Pace & Only When Allowed

How'd you/your muse come up with this story?
* It came about during a Facebook chat. You know, get 5 romance authors chatting and who knows where it will lead! In our case it led to this idea!

Describe the hero in five words.
* I have 2 heroes; Adam is slow, laid-back, undemanding, passionate and a dreamer.
* Alex is young, hot, a fast worker, needy and frustrated.

Describe the heroine in five words.
* Sophie is kind hearted, loving, caring and beautiful.
* Lillian is controlling, demanding, forceful, determined and a cougar.

Who's your favorite character in the book & why?
* Lillian! She is a Domme, in control, direct and no- nonsense type of woman!

What's your favorite line in the story?
* That's a hard one! Maybe… From Only When Allowed - "We'll have to do something about that!" She grabbed his tie and pulled him along the corridor, swiping her key card and almost flung him into her room.

A look into the story

~ Blurb ~ * For every desire, there's a man to meet it. Someone's annoyance is another's kink. In this naughty collection of short stories, indulge your fantasies, and follow our heroines as they find just the right type of guy or guys…
* From bouncing cocks to virgins, slow coaches, true Scotsmen, and messy play partners, sex toy experts and their mischievous friends, these guys are in need of their ladies. Why is one guy too grumpy to believe, another always too early? And can there ever be a future with a hired killer?
* Only one way to find out. You might just meet your ideal guy.
~ Snippets ~ From Snail's Pace in the hot little collection...
The deep timbre of his voice made her heart clench. She would miss the reassuring sound of his voice. Then she felt a warm hand on her shoulder, gently patting her. Looking up at his angular face, she did something she had longed to do. She reached out and stroked his beard. It felt bristly yet soft to touch. Then she dropped her hand.

And from Only When Allowed...
* He closed his eyes and felt at ease. This was not what he was used to. Women expected him to take control and lead the way, which he did with ease. This time he was quite enjoying doing as he was told. The bed dipped next to him and he looked forward to what she had planned next.
* "Keep your eyes closed. Do exactly as I say. I'll take care of everything," she said. One fingernail scraped up and down his cock, the feeling caused it to thicken all the more.

Buy Her Type of Guy here...
Evernight Publishing
All Romance eBooks
Amazon

Find Michaela Rhua here...
Website
Blog
Twitter
Pinterest
Facebook

Thank you for joining us here today, Michaela! It was a pleasure getting to know you and your stories.

A Look At Doris O'Connor & 'Under Orders' ( @mamaD8 @evernightpub #erotic #paranormal )

Today we have author Doris O'Connor visiting. Welcome!

What would you like to tell readers about yourself?

* I'm a mum of nine and happily married to my very own alpha hero for the last 23 years. A writer of all things naughty, I like to spin sensual, sassy, and sexy tales involving alpha heroes to die for, and heroines who give as good as they get. From contemporary to paranormal, BDSM to F/F, and Ménage, haunting love stories are guaranteed.

What book are you going to tell us about today? Is it part of a series? If so, what's the order the books should be read in?
* Under Orders is a paranormal office romance with a twist.

How'd you/your muse come up with this story?
* The idea came to me from a picture prompt used for a flash on my blog. You can find the original flash here: http://thetardisscribbles.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/tantalizingtuesdays-under-orders.html It kept niggling away at me until I sat down and wrote the story.

Describe the hero (or alpha male if M/M or alpha heroine if F/F) in five words.
* Sinful, Vampire, Protective, Dangerous, Alpha

Describe the heroine (beta if F/F or beta hero if M/M) in five words.
* Kick-ass, Independent, Intelligent, Tomboy, Romantic

Who's your favorite character in the book & why?
* Whilst the hero is too die for sexy, it has to be Anna, my heroine. She is feisty, and determined, and she has some of the best lines, lol.

What's your favorite line in the story?
* "Your body tells me all I need to know, but I want your mind, your heart, your soul, or I will walk away."

A look into the story

~ Blurb ~ * Who ever heard of being ordered to wear vibrating panties to a business meeting? The visiting CEO may be sex-on-legs-gorgeous, but Anna knows a sexual harassment case when she sees it. No one is going to order her to entertain Jonathan Symmonds—no one but her own body it seems.
* Jonathan proves a hard man to resist. When he reveals his secret identity, this daughter of a slayer ought to be running for the hills not play submissive to his dark side.
* Will passion and a shared past be enough to keep them together, or is their bond doomed to end at the stake?
Be Warned: bondage, public exhibition

~ Excerpt ~ * “Recognized me?” she asked, more confused than ever.
* “Anna Chapman is a common name, and you had red hair when you were little.” He smiled at her pussy, and Anna squirmed a little. She hadn’t shaved in a few days, and the little fuzz she did have would show her true hair color. Heat suffused her whole being, and he chuckled into her core, nuzzling against her and kicking her arousal right back up again. His breath against her sensitive lips, the lick of his tongue as he lapped the renewed gush of her juices slipping past her labia, caused the tingles to start. He tunneled his tongue into her quivering channel, his nose nudging her clit, and Anna couldn’t help her moans and sighs. She grabbed hold of his hair in a bid to keep him there, to urge him on, but it was useless. He took her right to the edge, and then withdrew. Sitting back on his haunches he smiled at her and licked his lips.
* “Delicious, little one.” His voice was hoarse, his hard long cock clearly outlined against the fabric of his trousers, and Anna’s pussy clenched in need. She so needed to feel him inside her. She must have said that out loud, because he closed his eyes and groaned.
* “Say that again.”
* His fingers dug into her soft flesh, and she winced, the pain just adding to her sensation overload, overriding the questions batting against her brain. He could explain that afterwards. Right now, she needed him like the air she breathed.
* “Fuck me, please. Make me yours.”

Buy Under Orders here...
Evernight Publishing
Bookstrand
All Romance eBooks
Amazon

Find Doris O'Connor here...
Website
Blog
Twitter
Facebook Page
Pinterest
Evernight Publishing
Amazon
All Romance eBooks
Bookstrand
Barnes & Noble

Thank you for joining us here today, Doris! It was a pleasure getting to know you and your story.

Cover art for 'Wild West Promise'! ( @rmsotera @evernightpub #western #erom #ROTG )

Cover reveal for our upcoming DDRT release!

* Once more the Las Vegas area is heating up!
* Get ready for another Wild ride…


Wild West Promise ~ book 3 in the Double D Ranch Tales series ~ a contemporary, western, erotic romance story with a hint of the supernatural set in Nevada and written for Evernight’s Romance on the Go line ~ projected for release August 2013 In life and the afterlife, on the Double D Ranch, one belief holds true—the power of desire changes lives.

* A rugged wrangler. A feisty Irish woman. A day full of promise. Times are wild on the Double D, and one ranch hand is in for the ride of a lifetime.
* Little does Maggie O’Hurley know her life is about to change. She visits the ranch to attend a friend’s bachelorette party and meets a wrangler named Kent. Her immediate attraction to him revs up her libido, and she plans to do what’s needed to snag the sexy cowboy…including making a decision she never thought she’d deal with again.
* As a workaholic, Kent Samuels hasn’t been with a woman in ages. When a bewitching redhead steps into his path, his world tilts, and she’s all he can think of. He doesn’t know if he’s able to give her forever, but he will give her what time he has. Once he does, he knows he can’t let her go.
* Past experiences war with ideas for the future, but can the pair make promises they can keep?

This story and others will be available at HMK! Come out to the hottest readers’ conference in the west, Hot Mojave Knights, and meet C.R., RM & other great authors ~ Las Vegas, NV - October 2013 ~ http://www.hotmojaveknights.com/

An EPIC(TM) Blog with Desiree Holt, EPICon Chair ~ ( @EPICorg @desireeholt #SO )

* Today I'm happy to welcome EPIC's Convention Chair, Desiree Holt. But first, a little bit about the wonderful organization...

* EPIC, the Electronic Publishing Industry Coalition(TM), was incorporated in 1998 to provide a strong voice for electronic publishing. Once an authors' organization, EPIC(TM) has expanded to include hundreds of professionals from all facets of the electronic publishing industry: authors, publishers, editors, artists, and others. EPIC(TM) members work together in a unique collaboration to further the industry. EPIC(TM) is not a publisher, but aspiring authors are invited to look at our member publishers. Check out "Our Members" for listings of our author, publisher, and other industry members.
* For more about the organization, visit www.epicorg.com

Now onto the interview! Welcome, Desiree Holt! Tell us, when did you join EPIC?

* I joined in 2006, right after my first digital book was released. And I attended EPICON at The Menger Hotel in San Antonio. A lot of authors from my writers’ group were there but I also met many, many new people who are still friends.

What did you hope to gain from being a part of the organization?
* I really wanted to make connections in an industry that was brand new to me. I was a neophyte writer, freshly published and greener than grass. I was trying to desperately understand the new digital publishing industry and learn who to maximize exposure and promote myself. Also how to improve my skills.

And, what have you gained from being a part of the organization?
* Besides the wonderful friends? I learned about online writing workshops, how to create a promotional program for myself without ever leaving my computer, and what the benefits and pitfalls are of digital publishing. I learned about new opportunities opening up because of digital publishing and how to take advantage of them. I was delighted to see EPIC kept a list of resources for its members on the web site and the conversations on the loops have answered a lot of questions. It seems problems are addressed as soon as they crop up.

Do you hold a position within the organization, and if so, could you tell us how you stepped into the position and what it entails?
* I serve on the Board of Directors and have since 2011. Mostly I think it happened because I stepped into the position of chair of EPICON less than five months before the 2012 event. I had become very good friends with President Betty Kasischke, she knew I had experience chairing events and since it was scheduled to be in San Antonio she recruited me. I co-chaired 2013 with the wonderful Kim Wollenburg/Cassiel Knight and am chairing EPICON 2014. I used to handle special events for a living in one of my many career options and brought that experience to the table with me. It is such a pleasure to put together an event that offers so much for members. This year is especially exciting because we have a lot of new members involved in active roles.

If you were speaking to someone who was interested in joining, what would you tell them are the benefits of membership?
* First and foremost it gives you a place on the loops and forums to ask questions and get answers. I don’t care how long you’ve been in the industry, new problems crop up all the time. It’s wonderful to have a place where people are always researching what’s happening and so are able to give out information. Secondly, EPIC provides a concise list of resources from editing to checking out publishers that is constantly updated. Third, on the forums things are set up so there are multiple topics. I don’t care what you want to chat about, there’s a group you can do it with. Kind of like having people into your living room for coffee. And it’s great knowing I’m part of an organization that’s really on top of the digital industry and is looking gout for my welfare.

Thank you for joining us today, Desiree, and telling us about EPIC(TM) and your part in the organization.

Desiree Holt’s writing is flavored with the rich experiences of her life, including a long stretch in the music business representing every kind of artist from country singer to heavy metal rock bands. For several years she also ran her own public relations agency handling any client that interested her, many of whom might recognize themselves in the pages of her stories. She is twice a finalist for an EPIC E-Book Award, a nominee for a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award, winner of the first 5 Heart Sweetheart of the Year Award at The Romance Studio as well as twice a CAPA Award for best BDSM book of the year, winner of the Holt Medallion, multiple winner of the Whipped Cream Book of the Week Award and is published by five different houses. Romance Junkies said of her work: “Desiree Holt is the most amazing erotica author of our time and each story is more fulfilling then the last.” You can find her at: Website | Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

A Look At Caden McCourt from 'Master' ( @RavenMcAllan @evernightpub #bdsm #erotic )

Today we have Caden McCourt visiting from the story Master. Welcome!

Caden, what would you like to tell readers about yourself? For instance, Where are you from? Do you have an interesting job? What brought you to the setting/point in the story where you come in? Etcetera...

* Hi. As I said I'm Caden McCourt and I'm in my early forties, own hair, own teeth. Grins I try to keep fit, although I do have a penchant for chocolate éclairs. I live in the South of England, and at the start of this book, I'm estranged from my wife. I own a BDSM Club, where I demonstrate and tutor. After fifteen years I've just found out where my wife is.

Are you happy with the way people perceive you?
* shrug yeah, I'm me. What you see is what you get, and I can't be any other way. I think the story shows how I've grown, and I reckon I should be perceived as one of the good guys.

Is humor important? Why or why not? Is expressing love difficult for you? Why?
* Without humor we're lost. If you can't laugh or see the funny side of life, life will be bland, dull and unpleasant. If you'd asked me about expressing my love, a few days ago, I'd've said I could do it no bother. Now I know that’s a load of rubbish, but given the chance I'm going to work on that.

Does your author ever try to take over the story? And how do you deal with it?
* She wouldn't dare now. We came to an agreement, I tell the story and she writes it. If she tries to plot, I shout louder and louder until she listens. This is my life (and Anna's,) our story, and only we can tell you what happens. After one or two sleepless nights, and a lot of deleting she gives in.

What was the best sexual experience you’ve had?
* Now, now, I don't fuck and tell, sorry.

What was the least interesting thing that has ever happened to you? (In bed or out.)
* Not being able to get Dundee thick cut marmalade in the local shop.

What’s your take on Athol?
* Ah Athol. Now there's a complex man. There's so much more to him that he shows to the world. He's loyal, hardworking, always there for you. And a mass of contradictions. I have to love and admire the man, not only for what he did to help Anna, and of course Anna and my life together, but because of what he's going though. It'll be interesting to hear his story.

If we were to spend a day together, what would we do?
* Well you understand it would include my wife? And probably be vanilla? We're not for sharing. However looks at me with speculation I could arrange for you to have a visit to Serendip, the club I used to own, or Dommissimma if you like? So we'll be in Scotland. I'll cook breakfast, then we'll go for a walk in the forest with the dog. Have lunch at Monacle Mhor, maybe a sea plane ride over the lochs and if it's a midge free, nice evening, champagne and strawberries in the garden before dinner. Of course the alternative is to hand you over to Linsey or Athol?

If you could time travel and/or live anywhere in the world, where would you go and/or where would that be?
* Exactly where I am

Now for some author information!
* My author is Raven McAllan. Raven lives in Scotland, along with her husband and their two cats—their children having flown the nest—surrounded by beautiful scenery, which inspires a lot of the settings in her books.
* She is used to sharing her life with the occasional deer, red squirrel, and lost tourist, to say nothing of the scourge of Scotland—the midge.
* Her very understanding, and long-suffering DH, is used to his questions unanswered, the dust bunnies greeting him as he walks through the door, and rescuing burned offerings from the Aga. (And passing her a glass of wine as she types furiously.)

You can find my author, Raven McAllan, here...
Website
Blog
Facebook
Facebook Author Page
Twitter

Now for some book information!
A look into the story Master
~ Blurb ~ * Caden McCourt did not expect to find his estranged wife Diana at a BDSM club. When he does, the renowned Master is determined to claim back his errand wife.
* When Diana left him fifteen years prior, she lost a part of herself. Seeing Cade again throws her into a tail spin.
* She cannot be the sub he needs, but she can't walk away either. When she's challenged by Cade to face her demons, her her old nightmares resurface. Can they overcome the chasm between them, or are the nightmares simply too strong?
Be Warned: BDSM, flogging
~ Excerpt ~ * Anna was unrepentant. Her knickers might need wringing out, and her nipples about to poke through her blouse—Cade always had that effect on her—but she wasn't going to submit in any way. Not now, not there. It's always the other people watching that screws me, every time.
* "I came because it's time to bury my demons and get rid of my past life," she said clearly. His grip tightened. Good, let him see I don't care anymore. Well even if I do, I'm not letting him know. "Let go of me, Caden, I'm not your…" her voice trailed off. The flash of anger in his eyes frightened her. Her skin crawled. What on earth had she done?
* "My what?" he asked his voice as smooth as the silk of her blouse.
* "Your anything," she finished. Her nails made tiny crescents in her palms, and she bet there'd be blood. Why oh why was she baiting him now after all this time? Did she have a death wish, or a wish to be taken in hand and shown who was boss? Where had that thought come from? Anna felt sick. Cade's face was devoid of any emotion. Only the pulse in his neck showed he wasn't a statue.
* "You think not?" His voice was mild, too mild.
* Anna swallowed. One day she'd learn not to open her mouth and put both feet in.
* "I suggest that as you watch my demonstration, you refresh your memory…" He paused and bent his head. His breath tickled her ear. "Wife."

Buy Master here...
Evernight Publishing
Amazon
All Romance eBooks
Bookstrand

Thank you for joining us here today, Caden! It was a pleasure getting to know about you, the story you're in, and your author.

A Look At Victoria Bernadine & 'A Life Less Ordinary' ( @GoddessFish #SO #MM )

Today we have author Victoria Bernadine visiting. Welcome!

What would you like to tell readers about yourself?
* I’m the youngest of eight children, and I grew up on a farm in southern Saskatchewan in Canada. I currently live in Edmonton, with my two cats (The Grunt and The Runt). Victoria Bernadine is a pseudonym that I created by reversing my mother’s first and middle names.

What book are you going to tell us about today? Is it part of a series? If so, what's the order the books should be read in?
* The book is entitled A Life Less Ordinary, and it’s about a woman in her mid-forties who quits her job and heads off on a six-month road trip with a handsome travelling companion and her imaginary friend, all in an effort to reconnect with her life.
* Although this book was intended to be a one-off, I’m currently writing a sequel, tentatively called A Year in the Life.

How'd you/your muse come up with this story?
* It started off as simple wish fulfillment; it was exactly what I wanted to do at that time of my life...although I wasn’t holding out much hope for a Zeke!

Describe the hero in five words.
* Sarcastic. Arrogant. Sexy. Sweet. Idiotic.

Describe the heroine in five words.
* Confused. Scared. Hopeful. Funny. Sarcastic.

Who's your favorite character in the book & why?
* Oh, dear – do I really have to choose? LOL I’ll have to say Harvey, Manny’s outspoken imaginary friend. I love him because he’s not bound by reality (he’s imaginary, after all) so he ends up in frilly shirts and tuxedos – whatever Manny wants. He’s also that sarcastic inside voice (I hope) we all have, so that made his dialogue really, really fun to write.

What's your favorite line in the story?
* I’m afraid I’m going to cheat and give you two, because I love both of them and I think they reflect both the comedy and the drama of the book:
* At 6:45 sharp, she was back in the kitchen where she rinsed out the cup and put it on the rack next to the other three cups from earlier in the week; they marked the passage of time like scratches on a prison wall.
* [Harvey is Manny’s Perfect Fantasy Man; she’s just imagined him in a frilly shirt and tight breeches, and this is part of his response]: I’m just sayin’–if I was real and regularly wore pants this tight, I’m not sure I’d be of any use to you.

A look into the story

~ Blurb ~ * For the last fifteen years, Rose “Manny” Mankowski has been a very good girl. Now, at the age of 45, she’s questioning her choices and feeling more and more disconnected from her own life. When she’s passed over for promotion and her much younger new boss implies Manny’s life will never change, something snaps. In the blink of an eye, she’s quit her job, sold her house, cashed in her pension, and she’s leaving town on a six month road trip.
* After placing an ad for a travelling companion, she’s joined in her mid-life crisis by Zeke Powell, the cynical, satirical, most read – and most controversial – blogger for the e-zine, What Women Want. Zeke’s true goal is to expose Manny’s journey as a pitiful and desperate attempt to reclaim her lost youth – and increase his readership at the same time.
* Now, armed with a bagful of destinations, a fistful of maps, and an out-spoken imaginary friend named Harvey, Manny’s on a quest to rediscover herself – and taking Zeke along for the ride.

~ Excerpt ~ * Manny walked in her door, looking tired and feeling worn out. She wondered ruefully why the only thing not on a schedule was the time she could leave the office. She dropped her purse on the table and hung up her coat and keys. With a tired sigh, she walked into the living room and plopped into the armchair. She closed her eyes as Harvey walked out of the kitchen with a glass of white wine and began to rub her shoulders. He again looked impossibly handsome, this time wearing a sweater and jeans. She sighed in imagined bliss, and looked at him with sad eyes.
* You have no idea how much I wish you were real.
* In a blink, he was gone–and the phone was ringing. For a split second, Manny considered not answering it.
* There’s your chance to talk to a real person, Harvey murmured.
* Probably a telemarketer.
* Probably Rebecca. Or Daisy. They’ll worry if you don’t answer.
* All right, all right.
* Manny heaved herself to her feet and walked to the phone.
* Maybe I’m glad you’re imaginary after all.
* She caught a glimpse of his grin as she answered the phone.
* It was Rebecca, asking her to go out the next night.
* “I don’t know...” Manny sighed.
* “Oh, come on–you’ll have fun! And seriously–you haven’t gone out with us in months!”
* “I’ve been tired...”
* “You’ve been tired your whole life I think. You need to break out of this rut you’re in! Come out for a few drinks and dancing with me and Daisy. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet a good-looking guy and be swept off your feet into a red-hot love affair.”
* Sounds like a plan to me.
* Yeah, ’cause that’ll happen.
* “I’d love to go dancing,” Manny said to Rebecca, “but the guy is just a figment of your imagination.”
* “Only because you don’t put any effort into it. Seriously, it’s not healthy to do nothing but work and go home. That’s how people go crazy you know.”
* “Huh. You mean next thing you know I’ll be talking to my imaginary friend?”
* Harvey grinned wickedly and Manny abruptly turned her back to him.

Buy A Life Less Ordinary here...
Amazon

Find Victoria Bernadine here...
Blog
Victoria can be contacted through Love of Words Publishing Inc. at loveofwords@shaw.ca

Thank you for joining us here today, Victoria! It was a pleasure getting to know you and your story.

A bit more about the author... Victoria Bernadine (a pseudonym) is, as the saying goes, a “woman of a certain age”. After twenty-something years of writer’s block, she began writing again in 2008. She began with fanfiction about a (now-cancelled) TV show called Jericho and particularly about the characters of Heather Lisinski and Edward Beck. From there, she expanded into writing original fic and she hasn’t stopped since. Victoria enjoys reading all genres and particularly loves writing romantic comedy and post-apocalyptic science fiction. What those two have in common is anybody’s guess. She lives in Edmonton with her two cats (The Grunt and The Runt). A Life Less Ordinary is the first novel she felt was good enough to be released into the wild.

& Victoria will be awarding a $25 (grand prize) gift card with two gift cards for $15 each; the cards would br for either Amazon or Smashwords (winner’s choice).

A Look At Gaylon Greer & 'The Descent from Truth' ( @GoddessFish #SO #FF )

Today we have author Gaylon Greer visiting. Welcome!

What would you like to tell readers about yourself?
* Working with traveling carnivals and itinerant farm labor gangs during his teen and early adult years took Gaylon Greer up, down, and across the U.S. and introduced him to a plethora of colorful individuals who serve as models for his fictional characters. After several years as an Air Force officer and then a university professor with a Ph.D. in economics, Greer developed an interest in writing fiction and attended workshops at the University of Iowa, the University of Nebraska, and Bryn-Mawr College. He also studied with the U.C. Davis Extension program and the Algonquian Writers Group.

What book are you going to tell us about today?
* The Descent from Truth

A look into the story

~ Blurb ~ * Alex Bryson is patrolling Rocky Mountain backcountry in his job as a security guard when he discovers a woman with a baby wandering alone in the snow far from the nearest road. He takes them to shelter in a weekender cabin and sees a newscast that suggests the woman, Pia Ulmer, kidnapped the baby from its rightful parents and that it is the sole heir of Peru’s wealthiest and most corrupt family. Pia claims that she is the baby’s mother, and Alex doesn't know what to believe. After turning her in, he continues to struggle with his budding feelings for her and remains unsure of the true story. He becomes more and more involved until finally there is no turning back—lives are on the line. He helps Pia get free from a brutal world that values money over life, and together they devise a plan to reclaim the baby. Just when it looks like they might succeed, they discover an international conspiracy that changes the game entirely.

~ Excerpt ~ * “Please,” she said, her voice as rough as sandpaper and barely above a whisper. “Please, do not give my baby to those people.”
* “Are we back to that? First you're his mother, then you're his nanny. Now you're his mother again?”
* “They took him from me. Look at him, Alex. Both Mr. Koenig and his wife are blondes.”
* “Koenig’s an old man. His hair's white.”
* “Study Frederick's face. Do you not see me in his eyes? His chin and his mouth?”
* The similarities were uncanny, he'd grant her that. Good enough to get away with claiming to be the kid's mother if Alex hadn't learned the truth. The way she had attacked him, trying to kill him with that skillet, she clearly didn’t want to go back to civilization and prove who she was. He turned away, tossed Frederick in a maneuver that brought a cry of delight, and stuffed the boy's blanket-clad feet through the leg holes in the backpack. With his parka snapped around both of them and the diaper bag tied to his waist, he gripped his rifle in one hand, his snowshoes in the other, and headed for the porch. At the door, he turned for a final glance at Pia.
* She had set her mouth in a stubborn line. The eye that had been plastered shut was closed. She stared at him with the other. When she saw him looking at her, she spoke again. “Watch over him, Alex. Someone wants to harm him. Don’t let them.”
* A new tack, another lie. He stepped onto the porch and strapped on his snowshoes. That should have been the last he saw of her, but the specter of her ravaged face and defiant expression stayed with him as he trudged across the sunlit expanse of glistening snow that sloped gradually toward the Warrior River Gorge.

Buy The Descent from Truth here...
Amazon

Find Gaylon Greer here...
Website
Facebook

Thank you for joining us here today, Gaylon! It was a pleasure getting to know you and your story.

Yesterday's missing post on blog tour is now up! ("Day 8")

* Hi all! Sorry about the missing post for yesterday's stop on the blog tour. Not sure what happened, but it seems that the host forgot about it and put something else up instead.
* But have no fear! Day 8 on the tour is no longer MIA! :) You can find it here at the TRS Party.
* Thanks for your understanding and participation in this tour celebrating my release of Sunset Temptations!
C.R. Moss

An EPIC(TM) Blog ~ Debi Sullivan, Competitions Chair ( @EPICorg #MM #SO )

* Today I'm happy to welcome EPIC's Competitions Chair, Debi Sullivan. But first, a little bit about the wonderful organization...
* EPIC, the Electronic Publishing Industry Coalition(TM), was incorporated in 1998 to provide a strong voice for electronic publishing. Once an authors' organization, EPIC(TM) has expanded to include hundreds of professionals from all facets of the electronic publishing industry: authors, publishers, editors, artists, and others. EPIC(TM) members work together in a unique collaboration to further the industry. EPIC(TM) is not a publisher, but aspiring authors are invited to look at our member publishers. Check out "Our Members" for listings of our author, publisher, and other industry members.
* For more about the organization, visit www.epicorg.com

Now onto the interview! Welcome, Debi! Tell us, when did you join EPIC?
* I joined EPIC in 2001.

What did you hope to gain from being a part of the organization?
* As a freelance editor, I initially joined EPIC to expand my contact base. I was intrigued by EPIC’s focus and wanted to be an active participant in an organization which, at the time, was the only one actively supporting epublishing while educating the public about electronic publishing.
* EPIC continues to maintain its reputation as a global forward-thinking organization that supports electronic publishing and I am excited to be a part of such an innovative and encompassing organization.

And, what have you gained from being a part of the organization?
* LOL…so much! I have gained wonderful friends, broadened my contact base and clientele, and expanded my personal knowledge of the electronic publishing industry.

Do you hold a position within the organization, and if so, could you tell us how you stepped into the position and what it entails?
* Wow! You have some tough questions. Let’s see if I can remember that far back. LOL Ok, here is the boring timeline. *grin*
* From the beginning, I was actively involved in EPIC’s interests. In my mind, volunteering to be a part of the eBook competitions was just another aspect of my membership.
* In 2005, as an ardent supporter of EPIC’s desire to educate young writers in all aspects of epublishing, I volunteered to judge our newest competition, The New Voices Young Writers Competition. In 2006 I took on more responsibilities when I was asked to assist the New Voices Competition Chair, all due to the overwhelming response to this new competition. Guess I did a pretty good job (*grin*) as I was asked to take over her position later that year.
* I learned a great deal about the behind-the-scenes workings of our eBook competition when I was asked to assist the new ebook Chair with the 2007 eBook competition, then known as the EPPIES. The dedication and attention to detail required for such an evolving and global competition was illuminating.
* It was during our 2008 Portland conference that I was handed the keys to the competition kingdoms and became EPIC’s Competitions Chair, responsible for our current competitions: the eBook, Ariana Art, and New Voices Young Writers. You can address me as “Queen of All Things Competition.” *big grin*
* But I do not do all of this alone. No one could.
* I am blessed to have remarkable and staunch volunteers who provide constant support and insight as I coordinate EPIC’s competitions, allowing our competitions to maintain an unsurpassed reputation for confidentiality, for fairness and excellence in performance and results, as they evolve with the industry.

If you were speaking to someone who was interested in joining, what would you tell them are the benefits of membership?
* Gee, where do I start?
* EPIC’s membership is welcoming and their unfailing support is never-ending; whether personal or professional, through the good and bad, we are there for one another.
* Yes, we do have our moments of dissension and heated discussion, but show me any family or group where there is constant peace. *grin* I believe that our constant communication, however, is one of our strongest mainstays.
* As for membership benefits, they are constant changing. We offer significant entry discounts for our competitions and have an excellent and passionate promotional team who are constantly on the lookout for advantageous offers for our membership.

Thank you for joining us today, Debi, and telling us about EPIC(TM) and your part in the organization. Do you have a bio and/or any links you'd like to share?
* I am the worst one to ask this question, as I do not have a website. Yeah, I know I should, but my time has been devoted to other endeavors. As for background, I have been a freelance editor since 1999 and currently work with a limited number of authors who are extremely patient with the time-constraints EPIC has inadvertently imposed on my time. I am working on a website. *grin* But only time will tell when it will be accessible.
* Anyone can reach me through competitions@epicorg.com. I am always accessible and welcome inquiries about our organization and competitions. If you are seeking immediate information about our organization and competitions, your best bet is to visit our website at www.epicorg.com.

A Look At D.J. Williams & 'Disillusioned' ( @djwilliams316 @GoddessFish #SO )

Today we have author D.J. Williams visiting. Welcome!

What would you like to tell readers about yourself?
* With the DNA of a world traveler, Williams was born in Hong Kong, has ventured into the jungles of the Amazon, the bush of Africa, and the slums of the Far East, to share stories of those who are overcoming incredible odds. He is the co-author of Restoration Road with Mitch Kruse and has produced and directed over 140 television episodes syndicated on NBC, ABC, FOX and various cable networks worldwide. Currently, he lives in Los Angeles, California with his wife.

What book are you going to tell us about today?
* Disillusioned
REVIEW SOUND BYTE: “A fast-paced mystery…you won’t put it down until you’ve unlocked the secrets and lies to find the truth.” Judith McCreary, Co-Executive Producer -- Law & Order: SVU, Criminal Minds, & CSI

A look into the story

~ Blurb ~ * A mother’s suicide threatens to destroy a family legacy. Her sons, Sam and Daniel, are forced to leave their comfortable worlds behind and search for a woman they believe can unlock the secrets that have remained hidden. They are propelled into separate journeys from Los Angeles to the heart of the Zambezi where they are forced to confront a man known as Die Duiwel, the Devil. On their adventures they will find themselves in a place where death is one breath away, where thousands of children are disappearing into the darkness, and where the woman they are searching for is on the hunt for revenge. When they stand face-to-face with the forgotten slaves of Africa they will fight to redeem what has been lost.

~ Excerpt ~ * Ten years later I had my hands full with two young boys while John was busy traveling the world. I went with him on occasion, but for the most part I stayed home and watched my babies grow into young men. At times it was as if I were a single parent. I could’ve spoken up. I could’ve objected to the sacrifices we made in the name of God. Maybe I should have, but I didn’t. Instead I enjoyed the comforts of being a wife, our beachfront home, a private jet leased by the church, a cabin in Lake Isabella, John’s seven figure salary, as well as his book royalties. A bonus was the respect given to us whenever we entered a room by those who didn’t know us. It was flattering, and addicting.
* This isn’t my life anymore.
* I’ve been locked up here for one thousand and ninety five days. I’ve had time to think about the choices I’ve made. I’ve thought about what is best for everyone. I’ve become a burden. I know it. I feel it. I hate it. The whispers inside tell me there’s only one decision to make, undoubtedly the hardest one of all. It goes against everything I’ve believed.
* But nothing is the same as it once was.
* God forgive me.

Buy Disillusioned here...
Print - Amazon
Print - Barnes & Noble
Kindle
iBooks
Nook

Find D.J. Williams here...
Website
Twitter

Thank you for joining us here today, D.J.! It was a pleasure getting to know you and your story.

ANNOUNCEMENT! D.J. Williams will be awarding a $30 Amazon gift certificate to a randomly drawn commenter during the tour. So be sure to leave your name and email with your comment and visit other tour stops (find them here: http://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot-tour-disillusioned-by-dj) for a greater chance of winning!

Day 3 of Tour & Hunt: Bourbon ~ Hump Day H00k ( #HDH @decadentpub #1NS #1NightStand )

Hi all! Wow. Another week's come and gone, and we're back to Hump Day Hook where authors share snippets from their stories. :)
* Today's hook is in tandem with my 'Sunset Blog Tour & Scavenger Hunt' regarding my recent release, Sunset Temptations. If you want to read the lead in to today's hook, (Day 3 ‘special word’: reader) please see the post before this one. :)

* Kiran dropped into the chair before his knees gave out on him.
* “So what are you drinking?” Robert took a seat across the small table from him.
* “Bourbon, Mr. Bourbon.” His attempt at humor didn’t come off like he’d wanted. He hoped Robert didn’t think it was as cheesy as it sounded.
* The corner of his lips tilted up for a second. “Sounds good. May I have a taste?”
(For the next part of the excerpt be sure to visit tomorrow’s stop on the tour! )

Please stop by and read the other authors participating in this week's HDH ~ http://humpdayhook.blogspot.co.uk

Remember the Day 3 ‘special word?’ It’s a part of the ‘Scavenger Hunt!’ Details: Leave a comment about this post along with your first name & email addy. Then email the ‘special word’ along with your name to crmoss@cox.net. ~~ Please DO NOT leave the 'special word(s)' in the comment section of this blog. ~~ Each day you participate on this tour will count as one entry into the first drawing. Yes, there’s a second drawing as well! For more details and lists of the dates, locations & prizes of this tour and hunt, click on the tour pic at the top of the column to the right. Thanks for stopping by!

Lead in to this week's Hump Day H00k...

This week's Hump Day Hook is also a part of my 'Sunset Blog Tour & Scavenger Hunt.' :)
During the first two days of the tour & hunt, I've been sharing a continuing excerpt. Because what's been posted so far is too long to include in the HDH post, I'm putting it here to lead into Day 3's post.

* Butterflies and nerves paired up in Kiran’s stomach and danced the rumba. Not long now. He checked his appearance and outfit one more time. His thick dark hair stayed gelled in place. Black suit jacket and pants were lint free from what he could see in the mirror’s reflection. Crimson tie lay flat against his crisp white shirt. He retrieved the flower from the refrigerator and attached it to the lapel. With a deep breath, he left his room.
* On the way to the Shadscale Bar, he stopped outside the Mesquite Ballroom. Volunteers stood behind a table with a spinning drum that reminded him of the ball mixer at bingo games. After verifying his name and attendance, he filled out a card and popped it into the bin. His wish? To have enough money to make good on his extreme loan and be able to pay for a new place. He somehow had to make it up to Ivy for his stupid mistakes.
* After he arrived at the bar, one of the servers led him to a private table in the back corner. He sat facing the entryway. Moments later, a waiter brought over a plate of white cheese balls with tomatoes and thin slices of meat.
* “I don’t think this is mine,” he told the man. “I haven’t ordered anything yet.”
* “It’s on behalf of Mr. Bourbon. When you finish, I will bring you the soup. He will join you for the rest of the meal. He wanted you to get started.”
* The butterflies in his stomach dropped like pebbles, weighing heavy at the bottom. “Oh, okay.” Fidgety nerves had him wondering if he could eat, but he dug into the food anyway. Plus, he planned to continue drinking. Alcohol on an empty stomach would be a recipe for disaster.
* Kiran pushed aside his empty soup bowl, took a sip of his second drink, then caught sight of a handsome, tall man in a black on black suit with a dark gray tie entering the lounge. He wore a sunset-hued rose boutonnière as well. If the guy approaching happened to be Mr. Bourbon, Madame Evangeline had done a wonderful job picking out the scrumptious male specimen. Kiran loved the color of the man’s hair. He rose on wobbly legs.
* “Hello, Mr. Emerson. I’m Robert Bourbon.”
* The man’s smooth, accented voice, along with the way his slow, seductive gaze sweeping up and down Kiran’s body sent his libido raging. The appraisal was followed by a sexy grin of approval. Heat lanced his gut and sliced straight to his cock. The other man’s strong facial features and straight white teeth filled Kiran with wanting and a need to be close to him. He accepted a handshake and cleared his throat. “Please, call me Kiran.”
* “Kiran it is then. Feel free to call me Robert or Rob.”

See the post above for today's Hump Day Hook & the hunt's 'special word(s)!'