Welcome Catriana Sommers today

 

Evolving Liari

Out of all of the characters I’ve had to write, Liari Varian was perhaps the most difficult one in the Arcanus Series. Naliel – my high elf from the first book Destined – was difficult due to the events that happened in his life(and in that he’s frustratingly passive in his younger days), but Liari was difficult because I had to remember that she’s supposed to evolve throughout the entire series and not just in Bound by Blood.

Liari starts out as a seven year old girl and matures into a twenty year old woman throughout the course of the book. She will continue to grow as the series progresses, but between the first draft and the final, it was pretty difficult to pin her down due to who she was ultimately surrounded by. A young woman traveling with men centuries (and in Rioran’s case a millennium) of years her senior can be daunting. She’s aware of her inexperience, but at the same time she is Rioran’s lifemate and they are equals. Both of them struggle with the age gap in different ways, but I had to make her growth realistic. I didn’t want her to become too strong too fast so as to leave her room to grow in further books, but I didn’t want her to be a complete pushover, either. She may not have the sheer destructive power of Rioran’s air magic and Naliel’s earth abilities, and her shadow skills aren’t as sharpened as say, my dark elf Sarnaiel’s, but the potential for her to become something much more is there.

Bound by Blood  is only the tip of the iceberg for Liari. She will continue to grow and eventually become the future queen the western territories needs when – or if – Rioran regains his kingdom.

 

 

Bound by Blood now available!

Buy Link:
https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/coming-soon-c-2/products_id/892/
 

Blurb: Rioran is a Kass’na’vah, king of a magical race, and his kingdom has been frozen by Olde Magick. Along with his brother Viron, the only known survivor of the attack, he travels across Meedia looking for leads to these mysterious practitioners of an eons-dead magic.

Their quest hits a snag when Rioran meets his lifemate, a dying seven-year-old vampire noble named Liari Varian. To save her life, he gives her his blood, binding himself to her. Now he’s stuck, physically incapable of leaving her, forced to watch from the sidelines until she comes of age and he can continue the search to free his people.

The world doesn’t remain idle while he waits, however. Tensions between races are building, war is brewing, and behind it all is a mysterious organization bent on eliminating all magic in the world.

CONTENT ADVISORIES: This title is erotica; it is not a romance title. This title contains both MF and MM sexual situations. 

Excerpt:

I am surrounded by incompetence.

Kien Varian reluctantly waved away the two voluptuous women sitting on either side of him. They flashed him pouty looks as he blew them apologetic kisses. Their hips swayed seductively as they quietly exited his social room.

The playful expression on his face morphed into an icy mask. Warm amber eyes, turned cold and predatory. Before him, a Mixed male kneeled on one of his fur rugs, one fist pressed firmly to the ground.

“Markus Lotros.” Crossing his legs, Kien raised a well-manicured hand to stroke his goatee thoughtfully. “Care to repeat those words?”

The messenger winced despite the pleasant tone. “I saw the heir leave her party moments ago… with Lord Larian. I had heard you wished not to be disturbed, but the young master instructed I come to you.”

Kien blinked and the stroking stopped. “Young master? Ah, you mean Eris.” Eris Lotros, heir to the strongest clan in the vampire community. A bit older than the birthday girl tonight by a few years, but his interest was obvious. A good match, if any were worthy of his little Lili.

If she survives.

“Yes, Lord Kien.” Markus’s head remained lowered out of respect and fear. Even being from another clan, there were few who could claim ignorance concerning Kien’s capricious behavior.

Fortunately, the vampire lord had other things on his mind. “Guardian?” he queried.

“Her whereabouts are unknown.”

Right. Of course Reila couldn’t be found. Had Alik listened to him and put a pureblood in charge of protecting Liari, Larian’s obvious ploy would have been less likely to succeed. The last of the Ancient’s resources and abilities had gone into ensuring the heir’s conception; a replacement would not be forthcoming.

“Be grateful your prince is an only child.” Kien finally stood from his plush red sofa, straightening his ruffled blouse. He blew out an exasperated sigh, fingers pinching the bridge of his nose in a futile attempt to thwart an oncoming headache. “Do you know where they were headed, Guardian? Stand up, man. I swear I won’t unleash my crazy on you.”

 

About the Author:

I live in a beautiful hilly town in the state of Washington. I have a wonderful husband and two cute dogs who are huge parts of my life. I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember, and I cannot imagine my life without it. I’m a fantasy/romance author, but I love reading Sci-fi/Fantasy, high fantasy, romance, and I’ve recently delved more heavily into steampunk.

I’ve been a published author since 2011. When I’m not writing, I’m procrastinating on websites like tumblr and roleplaying forums, I’m out and about learning the local area, or I’m playing video games. I’ve won National Novel Writing Month for two consecutive years and hoping to make 2012 my third.  

Where to find me:

My Website: http://www.catriana.net
My Blog: http://catrianasmuse.blogspot.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Catriana_S
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/catriana.sommers

 

Welcome Antwon Bantu & author Rawiya

Character Interview with Antwon Bantu & author Rawiya

Rawiya: Good morning. I’m happy to do my first character interview with one of my own. From Sugar Daddy, my guest is Antwon Bantu, famed barrister from Birmingham. Thanks for traveling all this way to see me, Antwon. 

Antwon: Ah you’re welcome, Rawiya. Matthew and I needed a break from the rigors of ol’ Britain anyhow. He’s taking a little time off while Uni is out of session.

Rawiya: That’s great. How long does he have to go before he finishes? 

Anwon: Not long at all, my dear. In fact, he should be receiving his certificate shortly.

Rawiya: Excellent. And how are things in barrister (lawyer) land these days? 

Antwon: Busy as usual, love. Even though I’ve slowed a bit, I’m still fighting for gay rights. Seems people still won’t allow us to have the same opportunities as straight people do. Shameful really.

Rawiya: Agreed. So tell me and the audience about the story, Sugar Daddy? 

Antwon: *crosses legs and straightens Burberry tie* Well, it’s a romance of course about two people from different worlds and backgrounds, finding love. That’s subject matter you love to do, right?

Rawiya: Very much so. Love is love regardless of orientation, gender, and race, and in your case, age. 

Antwon: Yep well, I’ve always dated younger men to make me feel young too. Gettin’ a little long in the tooth, I’m afraid.

Rawiya: Oh stop, you’re very handsome and mature. That’s what Matthew asked for. 

Antwon: Thank you. It’s true  he did and I’m glad we found one another. I didn’t have many hang-ups about my age until I met Matt. He really keeps me on my toes, in and out of the bedroom. *winks*

Rawiya: *laughs nervously* Oh, well… heh… Okay then. So, the readers know this book is set around culinary school. What is Matthew’s favorite dish to cook? 

Antwon: Ah, he loves everything. He really keeps this ol’ man from going hungry. He’s a bit of a neat freak too. Matt isn’t lazy by any means. He’s always complaining about where I lay my coat and or clothes. Well, that’s until I shut him up properly. *cocks eyebrow*

Rawiya: Well, wow… *fans self* We know who’s in charge in this relationship.

Antwon: Well, we defer to each other regularly. At first, I tried to muscle him but failed miserably. *sighs*

Rawiya: Oh I see. Well, Matthew is a strong guy. Don’t let the sweet face fool you. So tell me, since he’s younger and you’re more experienced, would you say the age difference has added something to your love or placed a barrier between you? 

Antwon: It’s added to it. He teaches me things and vice versa. I didn’t consider myself hip or anything until I dated Matthew. He’s up on all the latest music, style, etc. Even though fashion sense, I’d already had. Still, having a lover who is younger has made me appreciate life more. You can never stop learning or growing in my opinion. Matthew adds spice to my life and I’m happy I’ve met him.

Rawiya: So am I Antwon. This has been really fun. I’d like to get the two of you together soon to talk more. Do you think we can do that? 

Antwon: Of course Rawiya. That would be awesome. Matthew loves talking about our love. I’m sure he’ll enjoy it.

Rawiya: Fabulous. Thank you Antwon. We’ll see you soon!

 

Blurb: Matthew Davidson wants a MAN! The setting shifts away from the America’s to Britain where Matthew and his childhood friend, Devon Peartly attend a cooking school to obtain their cooking certificates. The young man wants a partner so badly, he decides he’ll try an online dating service in hopes of finding a black man that can take care of and satisfy him romantically.

He finds that man, Antwon Bantu on an online dating site and is instantly intrigued. Little does Matthew know that Antwon is involved in a “convenient” marriage and is seeking a younger partner so he can finally get on with his life. Instead of confessing the truth, he decides to hide it, fearing he’ll lose the chance with Matthew if he informs him. To complicate things, Antwon’s wife claims to be in love with him. Antwon must choose what’s more important; loving Matthew or saving his impeccable reputation as a top barrister in the London courts?

Which will he choose?

Amazon, Are, Smashwords

By the second day, Antwon wanted to know more about his new friend.

They’d exchanged messages and already had several private chats. Now, he wanted to do more than that. He hoped his insistence wouldn’t scare the young man off.

So far, the twosome found out they had a lot in common. Both loved sushi and long walks on the beach, retro and soul music, as well as classic American films and others with subtitles. Even though their ages were thirty years apart, they seemed to be a pretty good match. Because of that, Antwon wanted to move their online relationship into reality.

On the third day, Antwon decided a phone call would be the next step.

In all honesty, he really wanted to meet this young man face to face, but felt he’d be rushing it. He couldn’t tell what his attitude was this soon so he decided against it.

As he sat in his office finishing lunch, he thought of the most appropriate way to ask Choco about exchanging phone numbers.

After discarding the empty bag, he signed into the site to send him a message.

He typed, Choco, I really would like to get to know you on a more personal level. Can we exchange telephone numbers, please? I believe we’ve made a connection that’s worth exploring a little further. Here’s mine. And he added his home phone number.

“Whew. Been a while since I did that,” he muttered, hitting send. He hoped the young man would get it right away. The lawyer was more than intrigued and wanted to hear his voice.

Really, he desired more but would settle just to hear what the young man sounded like.

He leaned back in the chair, staring at the screen of his laptop, waiting for a response. He’d never been so excited to talk with a man.

Suddenly, the fifty-one year old felt as though he were a teen again, impatiently sweating while he eyed the screen. “This feels silly,” he mused to himself, “but…” he bit his lip, “he’s just so damn interesting!”

***

Matthew looked at the message on his screen with a big smile on his face. The man wanted to chat on the phone?

It meant he could hear that deep sexy voice. Matthew imagined he had to be a baritone – rich and resounding.

Anxious, Matthew typed in, sure what time should I call you? He leaned against the wall and waited for the response back. That voice. He’d imagined it constantly. He couldn’t wait to actually hear it.

“Matthew. What’s up? You dreaming again, mate?”

Matthew sighed, turning the phone around in Devon’s direction. “He wants to talk more. Dlovr just gave me his number.”

Devon raised an eyebrow. “Is that so? Will he be sending you a picture?”

The young Brit smiled and looked back at the LCD screen.

Yes that should be next but he didn’t mention it.

“No, not yet, but I’m sure it’ll come up. Besides, I already told you that wasn’t the most important thing. I really like this guy and…” The sound of his cell beeping interrupted him. “Okay, so. We’ll be talking tonight at about nine pm.”

Devon grinned, closing his door. “Yeah? Can I listen in on the other line?”

“No!” He pushed Devon away. This is a one on one conversation. You’ll probably laugh and embarrass the hell out of me. I can’t have that.”

He laughed and tapped Matthew’s shoulder. “Oh you’re no fun. C’mon, time for class.”

Matthew nodded and followed his good friend.

He was really looking forward to talking with Dlovr so he could get to know more about the man behind the perfect profile.

Matthew pictured a mature man, most likely grey hair, who wore nice suits and had a beard.

Yes, that had to be it, especially since that’s exactly what he hoped for.

About the Author:

RAWIYA is the more sensual erotica writer in the BLRawiya duo. Rawiya’s first sole author book, “Time to Make the Donuts” is now available in multiple digital formats through online vendors and her first MMF Living In The Now was released in April from Naughty Nights Press.
Rawiya loves multiracial characters who overcome obstacles other than race. Sweet, sassy, and spicy would be the best way to describe her work. Happily married mother of two, loves music, computers, and travel. She blogs regularly at Wicked Sexy Writers. For more please visit the Rawiya’s blog on WordPress.

 

 

 

 

Welcome Nicole Morgan

Get wicked with Nicole Morgan and a hot sexy excerpt from Impetuous, Incessant Passion Series.

Impetuous – [Incessant Passion Book 1]

Publisher: Silver Publishing

Direct Purchase Link:
https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/new-release-c-1/products_id/983/

BLURB:

The Callaway Corporation recently bought the high-end resort property Jenny Jacobson manages. In that time, they have micromanaged both her and it into the ground. With no budget for repairs she does most of the work herself.

In the middle of a plumbing emergency, Beck comes to her rescue and fixes the problem, saving her from further disaster and costly repairs. Despite her best attempts, she cannot seem to get away from this man.

Regardless of her cold treatment toward him, he turns on his charms. Will his cocky arrogance mixed with his sexy smile break down her tough exterior? If so, what secrets is Beck keeping that could ultimately ruin any chance they have to find happiness together?

BIO

Nicole Morgan was an avid reader who kept having one recurring problem. Ideas of stories kept popping into her head. Today Nicole is an author of erotic romantic novels, which more often than not have a suspenseful back story. Erotic romance mixed with a good old-fashioned, who-done-it. She tries to place strong emphasis on the characters’ emotions while also throwing in some spicy, hot love scenes. Her alpha male of choice will more often than not have a uniform of some kind. >From military to police officers, she has a love for writing about those who protect and serve.

 

While still trying to stay true to her style, she is finding her writing is evolving as she takes on new and uncharted territory for her. In the past year in both her personal and professional life, she has flourished. Claiming to have found a real life prince charming, Nicole is living out her dream and while enjoying each day for all that it’s worth.

 

HOT EXCERPT:

 

Their lips touched and their mouths opened. Her tongue swept into his mouth and stroked his. She was the only woman who could make his body ache this way. Just minutes ago she’d been in tears and he’d been worried she’d push him away forever. Now all he could think of was how good it would feel to be inside her, pumping into her pussy until she screamed in ecstasy. Until she screamed his name.

She moaned again. He didn’t just want to be inside her, he needed it. He needed to show her all that she meant to him. Reaching his hand down, he rubbed it against her hot core. Her breathing became heavier and she kissed him with even more ardency. He had to remember her ankle, though. He didn’t want her to be in pain. Only pleasure.

Slowly he laid her back on the bed. “Don’t move. Please, just lie there and let me take care of you.” He reached his hand to the side zipper of her skirt and undid it. Then, carefully, he lifted her bottom with one hand, sliding the skirt down her legs. He ground his teeth and muttered the words, “Mi dios,” when he saw her satin panties and the little pool of moisture coating them.

“Take them off, too, Beck, please. I need you.”

His nostrils flared and his cock swelled, unbearably hard at her pleading words. No way would he deny her what she wanted. After finishing with her skirt, careful not to hurt her ankle, he slid his fingertips up her thighs, watching as she closed her eyes and bit on her lip. Her skin was so smooth, it felt like silk. Approaching the damp satin he stopped and studied the small stain. That was his. He put that there. He was the one she wanted. Knowing that and not wanting her to forget it filled him with a primal urge to make sure she knew how much he loved her. He wanted to fill her body so completely that there would never be any doubt.

“Beck…” Her hips thrust toward his hand while she whimpered.

He had been so lost in his thoughts that he’d forgotten what she needed. He slid his fingers under the satiny band and groaned aloud when he felt her hot juices. Sliding his fingers inside her tight channel he watched her face flush.

“Unbutton your blouse for me. Let me see those beautiful tits lying there while I play with your pussy.”

Looking at her intently as she did what he asked, he began removing her panties, slowly sliding them down her legs until he was able to throw them on the floor where they belonged.

Jennifer pulled her blouse open, sliding her fingertips along the top of her lacy bra. Her eyes spoke to him just as they’d always done. There was such fire and desire locked inside them. Whenever she was at her most vulnerable, that was when the fire erupted and spread throughout her body.

With a soft whisper he asked, “Show them to me, Jennifer.”

With her delicate fingers she peeled the lace down and placed it underneath her breasts, pushing them out and farther up. Her nipples were plump and swollen. The pointed nubs were hypnotizing him. The memory of the texture and feel of them in his mouth shot even more blood racing to his already hard cock.

“Jesús, eres hermosa.”

 

Places on the web you can find Nicole:

Nicole’s blog

Nicole’s website

Nicole’s Yahoo Group

Nicole’s Facebook Fanpage

Nicole’s Twitter

 

guest Author Day with Nickie Asher

 

Hi and welcome to my blog, Nickie Asher. Please make yourself at home and grab a drink from my hunky cabana boys, Zeke and Jake.  So tell us a little about yourself. 

Thanks for the drink, and thank you for having me on your blog today. I’m thrilled to be a guest.

So tell us a little about your latest book. What inspired this masterpiece?

CRIMSON came about when I couldn’t find what I wanted to read. I decided if I couldn’t find it, I would write it. This novel was actually first drafted several years ago and turned into quite a learning project. 

If you had any super powers, what would they be and why?

I would restore youth and health to those robbed of them. I hate watching the ravages of time and ill health. 

What genre haven’t you tried yet but want to in the future?

Historical romance set against a WWII background.

What is one thing readers might be surprised to know about you?

I have a huge love of the violin. Nothing makes my heart kick into overdrive like a fine violin. 

If we asked your muse to describe you in three words, what do you think they might say?

Driven. Focused. Determined. 

What authors can be found in your library of books?

 JR Ward, Christine Feehan, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Stephen King, Dean Koontz and many more.

Have any guilty pleasures you want to share with us?

I’m totally addicted to Monster Java Loca Moca. Delicious. If only I could buy it by the gallon. 

Is there anything you’re currently working on that you can give us a taste of?

I currently have a work in progress titled FIMBULWINTER. It’s an action adventure about a movie score composer tasked with stopping the premature events signaling Ragnarok, the Norse end of time.

Thorn guarded his secrets carefully. Or at least he thought he had until he opened the door. The two men facing him had government goon squad written all over them.

The mid-day California sun reflected off their sunglasses in little blinding arcs. Dressed identically, they were so obviously thugs that it wasn’t laughable.

“Thorn Davidson?” the taller man asked.

A chill settled in Thorn’s guts. “Who wants to know?”

“Federal officers.” Badges appeared.

Thorn did his best to keep his face from giving anything away. “What do you want?”

The second man pulled at his collar. Sweat trickled down his temple. “We need you to come with us.”

He stiffened. “Why?”

“You’ll be given that information by our superiors.” The man wiped at his brow.

Thorn crossed his arms. They were so full of shit it practically dribbled from their ears. “I don’t think so.”

“Listen,” short guy said. “We can get in the car and drive to headquarters where you can answer a few questions and be on your way, or we can do this the hard way. Bottom line is you’re going with us.”

Thunder rumbled in the distance.

“I’m not going anywhere. I’ve done nothing wrong.” Both men probably concealed weapons. Didn’t matter, he wasn’t going voluntarily.

Short guy mopped his brow again. “It’s getting hotter by the frigging minute, and it’s going to storm. Let’s not make an ordeal of this.”

Did they know he was a regular in the underground bare knuckle fights? Probably. If they had taken an interest in him they would have done their homework.

A hot breeze kicked up, whipping his hair into his eyes.

“What do you want with me? And don’t feed me a load of shit.

The taller man’s jaw visibly clenched. “They told us to pick you up and bring you in. That’s all we know.”

“You’re lying. What else?”

Lightning flashed. Thunder answered. Closer.

“We were told you might be dangerous.” He patted his jacket, confirming the presence of a firearm.

Thorn’s heart-rate accelerated despite his determination to remain cool. “I’ve done nothing. I’m a composer. I make movie scores. I know absolutely nothing the government would be interested in.” 

What is your favorite way to relax after a hard day working and writing?

I don’t do relaxation. I stay busy until I crash from exhaustion at the end of the day. I have a difficult time watching TV and not doing something else at the same time. Occasionally, I will watch a movie but not often.

What is one historical figure you would love to chat with and why?

Thomas Jefferson. I’d like to talk politics with him. 

Would you care to mention any upcoming or WIP projects that readers can look forward from you in the future?
BLOOD JUDGMENT is an urban fantasy scheduled for release later this year. It’s the first book in a vampire series that asks the question: What would you do if the government decided to exterminate your race? The Judgment series explores this question.

Out of all your books, do you have a favorite one? If not, then which one is closest to your heart?

BLOOD JUDGMENT is my favorite. Julian Wilkes is one of my favorite characters because he faced so much to become what he was meant to be.

 

Thanks for coming. Is there anything else you want to add?

CRIMSON can be found at:

www.amazon.com/Crimson-ebook/dp/B007JZYANW/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1343262624&sr=1-4 

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/crimson-nickie-asher/1109518737?ean=2940014536875

 

I love hearing from readers. I can be contacted at:

snowleopards2000@yahoo.com 

https://www.facebook.com/nickieasher 

http://nickieasher.com/ 

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4420442.Nickie_Asher

 

CRIMSON

Red Hot Publishing

Blurb

Violently turned vampire against his will and plunged into a paranormal world he didn’t believe in, Alex Connor learns his problems are just beginning.

On top of the challenges of adjusting to unlife, Alex’s world tightens around him. If being rejected by the woman he desires, tormented by a cunning enemy, and hunted by a man bent on eliminating the local undead population isn’t enough, events go downhill from there. Topping off his difficulties are a ruthless sire with an agenda hinging on Alex’s skills and a young woman who uncovers his secret and won’t take ‘no’ for an answer.

Note – this book contains graphic violence and explicit sex. Intended for mature readers.

Excerpt

At the top floor, she hesitated outside his apartment.

Not knowing what to do next, she lingered in front of his door. Knocking was a death wish, but if she wasn’t going to, what in hell was she doing standing there like a fool?

He settled the matter for her. The door flew open and she stood face to face with a wild-eyed Alex.

He lunged, giving her no chance of eluding him. Hands biting into her upper arms, he dragged her into his apartment. She opened her mouth to scream, but he slammed her to the floor, knocking the breath out of her. With fluid motion, he shoved the door shut and dropped, straddling her.

He clapped his hand over her mouth. Panicking, she twisted her head and bit him. With a snarl, he yanked free.

“Why are you following me?” he demanded.

Their eyes locked. Her will drained away. With enormous effort, she turned her head, breaking the contact.

He growled like an animal and shivers crawled over her skin.

“Look at me,” he commanded and confined both her wrists in one of his hands.

He’d eat her alive if she looked in his eyes.

“Why are you following me? Who else knows I’m here?”

Terror twisted her guts, but she had the upper hand. His expressive eyes gave him away. And why wouldn’t he be afraid? She’d breached his hiding place.

“Take your hands off me,” she snapped, and to her surprise, he released her wrists.

They eyed each other.

“Why have you come here?”

“I don’t want to hurt you, but I know someone who’s itching to drive a stake through you.”

“Who?”

“Will you get off of me?”

“Not till you tell me who wants to stick holes in me.”

“I can’t tell you, but you’re in danger. He’ll hunt till he finds you, and he’ll kill you.”

His eyebrows drew close together. “So why are you warning me?”

“I don’t want you to die.”

He caught her eyes, and this time, she wasn’t able to pull from his control, he held her tight. “Are you telling me the truth?”

“Yes.”

He believed her. It reflected in his eyes.

She wriggled under him. “How did you know I was here?”

“Your perfume. It’s very strong. I smelled it that night on the street. It announces your arrival.” He launched off her and pulled her onto her feet. Without another word, he wrapped her in his unyielding embrace and nuzzled her neck, rooting around until he found her pulse.

She stiffened in his grasp then her arms went around his neck. Part of her had known he would do it. Worse, another part of her longed to feel his teeth in her fles

Welcome Ella Jade Today

 

Inspiration Comes in Strange Places…

Where did the idea for Make Me Stay Come from? One night back in January, I couldn’t get the Katy Perry song The One That Got Away out of my head. I was humming it in the shower and bam, the idea for my newest novella hit me.

I hopped out of the shower, wrapped a towel around myself and logged onto my computer as fast as I could. It was one of those moments where I had to get the scene down. It didn’t even matter that I was wet and shivering. It was the first time in my writing journey where I started at the end of the book. The chapter kept playing out in my head, and I knew no matter what happened from the beginning of the story on, I had to end up with what I had just written.

Now, don’t ask me what that song has to do with a BDSM romance, I’m still not sure. But, for whatever reason those lyrics triggered something in my subconscious. The inspiration was so strong that I managed to write Make Me Stay in three days. The story flowed, and the characters cooperated, so I went with it. Make Me Stay is a story about reconnecting with a lost love and finding away to make life work, no matter how crazy it may seem. It’s a love story at the core. I’m really pleased with the final outcome and I can’t wait to share it with all of you.

I’m also in the process of writing a second book called Surrender to Me. This novella will feature the main characters, Cade and Gracie, from Make Me Stay, but Martin Abrams will be the focus. You’ll meet Martin in Make Me Stay. He was one of those characters that wouldn’t leave me, so I gave the sexy Dom his own book.

Here’s a peek into Make Me Stay available now from Beachwalk Press…

Can the sub teach the Dom to play?

Natural submissive Gracie Miller thought she had found her other half in Cade Jameson. Not only did he help her through a difficult time in her life, in the bedroom he brought her more pleasure than she could have ever imagined. They seemed perfect for each other.

Cade knew what he wanted in the bedroom. Gracie brought out his domineering side and ignited his passion. But he feared he was too dominant for this beautiful, naïve girl, who was so young and impressionable, so he ended their relationship.

Two and a half years later, Gracie returns to town a new woman. She had moved to the city and found a “Master” who showed her what she was truly capable of. Now she’s back and wants to show Cade exactly what kind of submissive she could be for him.

But after hearing all that she’s experienced, Cade now wonders if he’s dominant enough to satisfy her. Can he be the man Gracie needs him to be?

Content Warning: graphic sex, BDSM themes

http://beachwalkpress.com/make-me-stay/

 

***

Excerpt…

Ten minutes later they were seated at a quaint restaurant in the center of town. Cade had requested a quiet table in the back so they wouldn’t be interrupted. He was confused enough and didn’t need any distractions. Being a well-known businessman, he was always running into people who wanted to have a drink with him. Gracie’s return would probably be the talk of the town in a matter of days.

Once they ordered dinner and the waitress poured their wine he’d had enough small talk. He wanted answers.

“Why did you come back?”

“I told you.” Gracie sipped her wine. “I took a job here.”

“Do you think I’m stupid?”

“Of course not.” She lowered her head.

“Don’t do that.”

“Do what?”

“Just look at me.” He was puzzled over her return and her elusiveness frustrated him.

She quickly raised her gaze, meeting his eyes.

“You walked away from this town without a trace. I don’t believe you would come back after all this time to consult. Something isn’t right.”

“You told me to leave.”

“Me!” He tapped his chest. “I told you to leave me. I never expected you to disappear. I thought I’d know where you were and what you were doing.” Even though he told her to go, he’d always intended to take care of her.

“Without you, there wasn’t anything here for me. You were everything. I had no family. I lived in your house. Where did you expect me to go?”

“We could have figured it out together. I would have made sure you were taken care of.” She’d always been his responsibility and when she left he panicked she’d end up on the street.

“I needed to go. I had to figure out who I was. That’s what you wanted.”

“I wanted you to be happy.”

“I am.” She smiled. “I told you, I met someone who helped me.”

“Then why aren’t you with him?” He didn’t like to think about her with another man. It infuriated him to know someone else touched what was his, even if he did let her go. “Are you running from him? Is that why you’re back here? Do you need my help?”

She laughed. “I could never run from Martin.”

He hated knowing his name. “So, Martin was your boyfriend?”

“Not really.” She took another sip of her wine.

Her mysterious behavior pissed him off. She’d better start talking and fast.

“Your husband?” He felt his blood boil. Could she have gotten married?

“Cade,” she said as she reached for his hand. “I don’t want you to freak, but Martin was my Dom. I was his submissive.”

***

Thanks so much for joining me today. I love making new friends so please connect with me…

http://ellajadeauthor,blogspot.com

 

 

 

Are Vampires Dead? By Cynthia Arsuaga

ARE VAMPIRES DEAD?

That’s the word I’ve been hearing around the water cooler lately. Yes, there are some who love their vampires and will never tire of them, but in the publishing world where the next popular genre is important to sales. Contemporary and even erotica due in thanks to 50 Shades of Grey pushes us lovers and writers of the paranormal take a backseat to the latest rage. Me, I think what falls out of favor now eventually comes back again. Vampires and the lore surrounding the creatures will be here for a long time. Yes, the market is saturated not only in literature, but in the television and motion pictures. I for one won’t stop writing about my “guys” of the night. I love them enough I’ve created two different worlds and will be debuting another one this December. The first two have been out since last year and are continuing into this year with more planned for 2013. They are more traditional types of vampires. One world is darker and edgier with the other with vampire warriors who are more “business-like.” Yeah, I know that sounds strange, but it works. Each series currently has two books released each and others are in the works, a minimum of four each.

When I created the two different worlds, I started with an idea about the women, the heroines. The story/plot came next with the Heroes, the vampires, created to compliment the women.

For the research in the Born Vampire series, I had the hero as a 500 year old Romanian vampire and not the leader of the local family of vampires; he is the “Enforcer” or Sergeant Palatine of the group. The hierarchy of this “blood family’ is based loosely on the Knights Templar. The head of the family (read as a clan, nest or coven) is called the Master and Commander with other members as Sergeant Palatine, Knights, and the supreme commander of all is a Grand Master of North America, Europe, or Asia.

From the beginning, I wrote the first story adding in some of the vampire folklore, but not the typical types. Researching the many myths and legends, I picked those that would fit into each world and had the stories revolve around BDSM in the Born Vampire series with added elements that weave through each successive story, and in the Forces of Beauty series, different “powers”.

As I mentioned before, the Forces of Beauty series has the vampires as businessmen. The hero of the first book owns a hospitality and entertainment company who meets his lady in Crete at one of his resorts. (BTW, hubby and I stayed at this particular resort and I had it in mind when I wrote the location.) In the most recent release, A Vampire in Paris, the hero was in the first book as a secondary character and I had to give him his own love story. The company he works for is also owned by an ancient vampire who just might show up in a future book and he is one of the company’s best security investigators. You never know where the inspiration comes from! The heroines in both are “older” women, quite accomplished in their own professions but doubt their attractiveness to the “younger” men, until they find out who these men really are.

As a fun project as an escape from the serious story-lines, I have recently begun a vampire comedy series of short stories put together as an anthology. The first short releases December 2012 and will have a total of five shorts releasing around holidays in 2013.

In closing, I’d like to share a few vampire traits, myths and folklore that may or may not be widely known. I love research and you never know what you find.

• CLOCKS:  According to European folklore, a person’s house can be protected from a vampire attack by stopping the clocks at the time of death. Stopping a clock is said to put the corpse into a sort of suspended animation, preventing demonic forces from entering the body until it is ready for burial and therefore not becoming a vampire.
• COUNTING:  In Chinese narratives about vampires, they state that if a vampire comes across a sack of rice it will have to stop and count all the grains. These are similar myths recorded on the Indian continent and even in South America. The vampire isn’t repelled or pierced by the objects, rather the creature is compelled to eat them or count them one at a time, thereby slowing them down and away from the living. (I used a variation of this in the Born Vampire series. The vampires have OCD, I explained.)
• INCENSE:  Composed of grains of resins and spices that are burned or sprinkled on lighted charcoal to create a sweet or pungent odor, incense has been used in many religions over the centuries to drive out evil entities from a person or a place. In fighting vampires, it ranks alongside garlic as a preventative measure and as a way to counteract the stench of death. In some regions of Romania, it was often pushed into the ears, eyes, and nostrils of a corpse to stop an evil spirit from entering and reanimating the body.

• SECONDARY POWERS:  Folklore, not of the fictional types created today which have variations ~
  • The ability to cause impotence ~ This surely wouldn’t work with any of my vampires.
  • The ability to cause plagues, epidemics, crop failures and the deaths of livestock.
  • PROTECTION:  Methods of protection differ from region to region and country to country, but some of the most common means of securing safety are listed below:
    • Thorns:  Considered to be magical barriers against vampires and witches.
    • Calling three times:  In Romanian lore it was believed that one should never answer someone unless they call three times, because it was said that vampires can only ask a question twice. If someone answers a vampire, the vampire has the power to kill them.  (This sounds like a “Beetlejuice” variation!)
    • Lemon: In Saxony in Germany, a lemon was placed in the mouth of suspected vampires.
    • Bread and cheese:  Among some Slavic Gypsies, offerings of bread and cheese were made to appease vampires. In Transylvania wine was buried with bodies for the same purpose.
    • Holly, hawthorn, and wild rose are all said to harm vampires.
    • SNEEZING:  There are numerous widespread folk beliefs that the soul temporarily leaves the body through the mouth during a sneeze and is therefore vulnerable to the forces of evil. Sneezing creates an opportunity for evil entities to enter the body through the mouth and take possession of it. In the folklore of Romania, sneezing can attract or empower a vampire unless a blessing is given immediately after.
    • SOCK:  According the lore of the Gypsies from Eastern Europe, the left sock of a vampire can be used to drive it away or even kill it. Vampire hunters steal the sock from the grave, fill it with rocks, and throw it outside the village, preferably into a river or running water. The vampire will then wake up, miss its sock, and start searching for it, even if that means entering the water and drowning in an attempt to retrieve it. Like the use of seeds and grain to distract the vampire into counting for centuries, this is based on the widespread belief that vampires are obsessive creatures. (Why the hunters just didn’t stake the vampire instead of stealing its sock just doesn’t make sense, but this is all myth, right?)
    • VISION:  The eyes of vampires are often described as hellish and hypnotic and able to paralyze victims. They may also turn blood red when the vampire begins to feed. The superb night vision of vampires isn’t explained or even mentioned in folklore but it is implied, as generally the vampire of folklore is a nocturnal creature. (My vampires’ eyes turn red not when they want to feed, but when their sexually aroused.)

And last, but not least, is this one!

• WATERMELONS:  Among the Muslim Gypsies of Yugoslavia, watermelons like pumpkins, could become vampires, especially if they had teeth and had been kept for more than ten days or for too long after Christmas. Stained with drops of blood, these not very deadly or threatening vampires roll around making growling sounds, for no other reason than to irritate the living. (Yep, fanged watermelons rolling around the ground certainly would irritate me!)

All these interesting facts are from The Element Encyclopedia of Vampires by Theresa Cheung and I hope you have enjoyed learning a few new things about vampire folklore, myths and legends.

EXCERPT FOR A VAMPIRE IN PARIS:

“Merde! Vous avez rompu son coeur. Vous, vous êtes un vampire.” Inching off the sofa, she leaned forward, and then stood. “Julli told me everything.”

“Calm down. She told you I’m a vampire and I broke her heart? What else did she tell you?”

“You speak French. Oh mon Dieu!” She stared at him with intense green eyes. “I’m not telling you anything, nothing! You are a monster and addicted her to you creatures! You did this to her!” Camille lunged at him with the flower vase she picked up from the coffee table.

Dodging the arm clasping the crystal glass container filled with roses and cloudy water, his reactions were too fast for her to recover. He grabbed one of her flailing arms as she stumbled, losing balance, and ready to crash head first onto the hardwood floors.

“Don’t touch me!” She struggled to release his embrace, but he held on tight.

“Would you rather me let you fall on your face? I could do that easily. No skin off my back.”

“No!”

With a wicked grin of arrogance, he gazed down at the pleading pale face. He pulled her upright and turned her to face him. The glowing emerald eyes staring back amused him, he smiled inwardly recognizing the tell-tale sign of dilated pupils, lust clearly reflected back. He inhaled deeply. Bloody bollocks! The woman has lusty thoughts. He instantly knew the arousal she felt was a natural reaction and nothing his vampire powers created. His cock got impossibly hard from being in such close proximity to her and this wasn’t the vampire beast begging for release.

Fuck she smells incredible, like freesia and honeysuckle. The fresh scent, only that of a woman he lusted after could make him lose the willpower to pounce on her right then. Something about this female made all logic leave his brain, something he couldn’t explain. Her mind wasn’t guarded any longer and he read every carnal thought running through her mind. And she turned him on. He struggled to compose himself.

“It’s better than being seduced by a…a blood pusher.” Her voice cracked getting the words out.

“A what?” The brow pulled together in a frown as he wrapped his large hands around each arm, holding her still. “Listen Madam, I didn’t get her hooked on anything and I’m not a pusher. She came to me already enjoying the pleasures of us creatures, as you like to call me. Your niece left me by the way, so if anyone should be heartbroken, it would be me.”

Camille’s breathing increased, her heart raced, and he sensed them both. “That is not what she told me. You don’t have a heart. You only use people for your own satisfaction. Let me go!” She twisted and turned to wrangle from his grip. “What do you want, my blood?”

For the first time since meeting this fiery woman, he was intrigued. Here was a strong, intelligent woman, and for an older woman, she was no Doris. As a matter of fact, she was very attractive and under any other circumstances he would not be attracted to. Most women succumbed to his touch, his good looks, and his charm. Not this little vixen. She could be a royal pain in the derriere to any man who took interest. Except, Camille du Bassin possessed a quality he wanted to explore and more than her blood. Attention shifted to the pulsing vein in her neck. “No, don’t flatter yourself, sweetheart.”

“Don’t presume to know me and call me sweetheart.” Her eyes flashed and the color grew a darker green. “I won’t become one of your blood whores.”

Ramsey’s attention refocused on Camille’s face. A grin widened on his face. “I could say the same. I’m particular about the women I take from and you’re not my type, claret or sex.” He swept an arm around her waist. “I can find any woman on the streets more than eager to quench my thirst, any night of the week and any time I desire. I don’t need you.”

Over the years, he’d played the game of cat and mouse with many women, but none amused him more than this little one. As he breathed in her intoxicating scent, his body and brain went into hunter mode. He wanted to shag her, no needed to fuck hard and feed ravenously, so said his aching fangs and cock, over-riding all sane thought. One night is all he required, or a few hours worked just as well to sate his hunger. His elongated incisors pricked the bottom of his lip. The coppery taste of blood tantalizing his tongue caused his desire to increase. The scent of blood flowed through her veins, titillating his nose. The touch of her skin caused his cock to twitch in his jeans.

Something indefinable in Camille’s expression drew Ramsey as he turned attention to her parted mouth. An element of desire and defiance in the way she held herself sparked a red-hot challenge to the vampire security investigator to force the older woman’s submission.

Her chin tilted up just a fraction, and Ramsey almost laughed with delight at the defiant way she played the game so well.

“Maybe that eez true, but I do not need you either. I’d rather sell my soul than let you have your way weeth me.” She squirmed and fought to break his embrace.

Ramsey noted that her eyes widened as she verbally assaulted him. He sensed the fear that had begun to edge her demeanor, brought to the surface by the knowledge of who and what he was. For a moment, he stared into fascinatingly beautiful deep emerald eyes contrasted against pale skin and soft light-colored red hair. What he caught a glimpse of within sent lust rushing over him instantly. Earlier in the evening, he’d not given much conscious thought to the woman other than she was Giselle’s aunt, and a royal pain in the arse. But obviously his body had a mind of its own because he now wanted her fiercely, the power over his libido became hard to tamp down.

Full lips curved into a smile and a tongue slipped out to wet them. “I could probably arrange that, but you will resign yourself to me sweetheart. Eventually, but not this time,” he murmured wickedly.

Suddenly without another thought, Ramsey dropped his head and possessed the luscious lips, curling a hand around the tightly wound strawberry blonde chignon. Taking what he wanted this moment, tasting the sweetness of strong defiance in the woman’s kiss. He thrust his tongue between her lips, his determined hands found and then cupped her cheeks. A moan filled his mouth along with the sound of her heart beat resounding in his ears.

The sound of a fast and furious pace of desire roared loud and clear in her thoughts, the same seductiveness tugged on his insides like never before, at least not this strong. He pulled free from her lips and stumbled away, surprised by the sensation. Had this temptress with the impossibly green eyes bewitched him?

Ramsey’s heart skipped. Bloody bollocks, it skipped? He couldn’t remember the last time any woman made him react like that, not even Giselle. Or maybe, the impulsive kiss came from weakness with the dawn nearing.

“You dare challenge me, woman? You don’t understand who you’re dealing with.” He fought the desire to have this woman’s blood and sex this minute. Crikey! What am I thinking? I like my women young, sexy, and very blonde. Not…not anything like this woman.

But, something about Camille du Bassin, something so different and so desirable, unlike any human or vampire woman he’d ever known, piqued his interest.

A sucker for green eyes, he wasn’t usually crazy about red heads or older women either, but he could make an exception for this one. She had fire in her belly representing a temptation intriguing and forbidden. He’d have Camille if for nothing more than to win the challenge over her insufferable defiance. The desire to have dominion over the woman had nothing to do with liking her, but everything to do with pure, unadulterated lust.

“I know enough. You can’t seduce me, bend me to your will or leave one mark on me because I’ll fight you.”

Ramsey grinned. “Hmm, we’ll see. But the hour is late. I have to go.” He turned and took a couple steps and added, “Until tomorrow night, mademoiselle.”

As he reached the front door and opened to leave, he heard her call out from behind, “Never. You’ll never have me.”

With a quick glance over his shoulder, he said, “We’ll see. I know your type, Camille. Our night together will be soon.” A grin curled his lips as he waited for a reaction.

She grabbed her handbag, and squeezed between him and the doorframe stepping into the hallway. For a split second she hesitated before glancing over her shoulder, and hissed, “Casse-toi.”

He laughed and closed the door. “Fuck off. Now that was real lady-like, Mademoiselle du Bassin.”

 

For more information, visit my BLOG or WEBSITE. All my books are available from Secret Cravings Publishing and all retailers—Amazon, All Romance Ebooks, Barnes & Noble, and Bookstrand

Cynthia Arsuaga

Welcome Gracen Miller & a CONTEST

Hi and welcome to my blog, Gracen. Please make yourself at home and grab a drink from my hunky cabana boys, Zeke and Jake.  So tell us a little about yourself.

GM: Thanks for having me. *grabs a margarita from both cabana boys, while admiring their hunkiness and ponders how I can turn my muse—Dom—into a cabana boy* It’d be so nice having Dom serve me for a change. *winks* Something about myself, huh? That’s always the hardest question. I’m a hopeless daydreamer masquerading as a “normal” person in southern society.  I’m a full-time basketball/football/guitar mom for my two sons and a wife to my real-life hero-husband of twenty years. I’m addicted to writing, reading, Alabamafootball and coffee…addictions are not necessarily in order of priority. Coffee IS nectar from the gods and blending coffee and writing together generates the perfect creative merger. I’m shy and I’m afraid not very interesting. *shrugs* Anything else anyone wants to know, just ask away.

How much of your personality and life experiences are in your writing?

GM: Very little of my life experiences go into my writing. Everything I’ve written so far is paranormal related. My heroine in the Road to Hell series, Madison, shares some qualities with me, like being a devoted mother and her turbulent relationship with her father. Otherwise, none of it is a reflection on my life.

Generally, how long does it take you to write a book?

GM: Anywhere from six months to a year if it’s a full novel of around 100K. If it’s a novella, the shortest time it took me to write one was a week.

What is your writing routine once you start a book?

GM: Ha! I have a very active, young family, so I’m happy to write whenever I get a chance. My only routine is a dedication to try and write a little each day. I don’t always succeed, but it is my daily goal.

 

Tell us about your latest release or upcoming release. What inspired it?

GM: Well, my latest release is Hell’sPhoenix, which is book two in the Road to Hell series. Since it’s a story that builds upon itself, I cannot discuss book two without giving a little background to the previous book. Book one, Pandora’s Box, is about the heroine, Madison, discovering who she is, what her son is and how her husband fits into everything. And how far she’ll go to protect and save her son. Hell’sPhoenixis aboutMadisonaccepting her fate and facing it head on to save the one man that sacrificed everything for her.

Road to Hell was inspired from a nightmare where a demon/ghost was gunning for my kids. After I woke up and began to realize it was just a dream, I got to thinking…the worst nightmare any parent can endure is when their child is harmed or endangered and there’s nothing we can do about it, but only watch it happen. I experienced this in real life when my eldest started having grand mal seizures. The absolute helplessness of being able to do nothing is crushing. I felt like a failure for years—which is crazy—but that’s what mom’s do, we worry and blame ourselves even when we shouldn’t.

But the nightmare got me to thinking “what if” it was something paranormal and not medical affecting her child? How would she deal with one crisis after another, realizing there is nothing she can do to change what comes from within him? To what lengths would she go to save her child? And that was the inspiration behind the Road to Hell series.

What are your thoughts on love scenes in romance novels, do you find them difficult to write?

GM: Nope, they’re not difficult to write unless I’m trying to push the intimacy too soon. Otherwise, it’s a progression like the story. To me sex is an important aspect of any romantic relationship, so to delete it from a book isn’t natural. But I respect authors who don’t place sex in their romances, as well as readers who don’t like to read those scenes.

What kind of research do you do for your books?

GM: Very little. Sometimes I’ll run a google or wiki search for something specific, like the first dragon myth. Then I build from that mythology and give it my own creation. I prefer to start with a basic mythology and expand on it.

What are some of your favorite things or hobbies to do?

GM: I love to read paranormal romances, and even read a few horror books on occasion. I also love horror and supernatural movies. But my favorite pastime is my family…my sons and husband are the best!

 

Who are some of your other favorite authors and genres to read?

GM: Paranormal Romance is my favorite genre to read and I have tons of favorite authors.

Among your own books, have you a favorite?  A favorite hero or heroine?

GM: Yes. The Road to Hell series are my favorite books, with Hell’sPhoenix(the second book) being my favorite between the two of them. My favorite heroine isMadisonfrom that series, favorite hero would bePhoenix“Nix”, and even though you didn’t ask, my favorite hero-villain is Micah.

Which comes first, the story, the characters or the setting?

GM: The story and characters tend to come together at the same time. The setting falls into place after the rest is decided.

What part of a book has been the easiest to write?  The hardest?

GM: The more twisted the scene, the easier it is for me to write them. I don’t know why, but my descriptions of Hell were very clear in my head. But the most basic scenes, like having a conversation in the kitchen, the details elude and frustrate me.

What are the elements of a great romance for you?

GM: Conflict. Not necessarily conflict between the romantic characters, but conflict from within that makes them hesitant to explore mutual attraction. Also, there has got to be believable chemistry between the hero and heroine.
What is the hardest part of writing/the easiest for you?

GM: The hardest part of writing is finding the time to write. The easiest part of writing is the first round of edits after the story’s been written.

 

Are you in control of your characters or do they control you?

GM: I’m controlled either by my muse, Dom, or the characters. I haven’t decided which has the most power yet. lol

 

What are some of your current projects?

GM: Genesis Queen is book three in the Road to Hell series and it will ultimately be about the directionMadisonwill take with the destiny that’s been handed to her…will she use it for good or evil? I also have a completed book in a new series—the Kiss series—and I’m halfway through the second book in this series. I just need to find the time to edit the first book. This series is a cross between paranormal/horromance, but it isn’t as graphic in the horror aspect as the Road to Hell series.

Boxers, briefs, boxerbriefs…. Or commando on a man? Why?

GM: Personally, boxerbriefs or commando. In writing, it depends on the character and their personality. Boxerbriefs are just sexier to me on a man than briefs or boxers. And commando is kinda naughty, and oh, so much fun.

 

What is your strangest habit?

GM: Eating rainbow chip frosting while I write. I started this bad, bad habit in high school—when I was skinny and could afford the extra calories. I don’t indulge in this habit often, but I won’t deny without the icing, I feel like I’m missing a limb when I’m writing.

 

When you looked in the mirror this morning, what was the first thing you thought?

GM: *laughs* Something along the lines of my horrid bed head. Wish I could wake up sexy like my heroines and like actresses in movies.

What is your favorite pizza?

GM: Pepperoni and green olives. Now I want pizza for dinner!

What is one thing scientists should invent?

GM: How I can shove 30 hours into a 24 hour day would be awesome. I also wish I could eat chocolate all day and lose weight!

 

If you could time travel, where would you go?

GM: The future because I want to see how advanced we are in a thousand years. I also want to scream “told ya so” when the world doesn’t end on December 21, 2012. *cheeky grin*

 

What is your favorite thing about being a writer? (Romance or other genres)

GM: The adrenaline of creating characters, discovering their lives, feeling their emotions and falling in love with them. What a god-complex! And kind of like a drug, very addictive.

If I was a first time reader of your books, which one would you recommend I start with and why?

GM: Pandora’s Box and then the rest of the series. Why, is because it’s not the same story line you’re going to see coming from publishers. It’s a mixture of horror and romance—what I’ve termed “horromance”. It will push boundaries that make you cringe in discomfort. The story will play with your emotions. You’ll hold your breath, hoping for the best, but expecting the worst. There’s action, adventure, demons, hot heroes, sexy villains and fallen angels. And just when you think you have something figured out, the story whammies you with the unpredictable.

What do you hope readers take with them after reading one of your stories?

GM: I just hope readers are able to forget their chaotic life for a few hours while they read one of my books. If they can, then I’ve succeeded.

Anything else you want to mention?

GM: Live on the wild side and join me on the Road to Hell. *wicked grin* Thanks for having me with you today, Raine.

Where you can stalk me—not really!—but I would love to meet and interact with you: 

Facebook: 
http://www.facebook.com/gracen.miller

Road to Hell series FB Fan Page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Road-to-Hell-series/112564408814796?ref=ts

Website: www.gracen-miller.com

Blog:
http://madisonroadtohell.blogspot.com/

My Publisher: www.decadentpublishing.com

 

Contest:

Leave a comment, with a valid email, for a chance to win your choice of one of my back titles from Decadent Publishing. I’ll draw a winner tomorrow morning. Good luck!

 

Pandora’s Box Blurb (book 1):

 

Where does the road to Hell begin?

 

What happens when your son turns homicidal overnight and your husband disappears on his way to work? Do you cower in fear or fight for your life? Madison Wescott fights against the odds. Distrustful of a God she doesn’t believe in, she finds herself face-to-face with a world she didn’t know existed and discovers her own soul is darkened with demonic connections.

 

With good intentions? Or by demonic design?

 

Phoenix Birmingham bursts intoMadison’s life in a whirlwind of sarcasm and sexual appeal. A hero for the masses—and for her jaded heart—but few will ever know the sacrifices he has made or the sacrifices to come. Discovering her entire life has been influenced by multifaceted paranormal beings,Madisonis determined to defeat the apocalyptic blueprint fate has decreed, but only one man dares to challenge the supernatural forces manipulating them. Even withPhoenix’s aid, can destiny be denied? Or will demonic design prevail while they pay the crucial price with their souls?

 

In a small, sleepy Alabama town the battle for mankind’s liberty has begun…

 

Pandora’s Box Excerpt:

“May I?” He held up the medical supplies.

She nodded and watched as he doused gauze with antiseptic. “Dr. Nix at your service,” he said with a grin, two adorable dimples charming her where words failed.

Madisonrolled her eyes, and tipped her head to the side to give him better access. He brushed her hair off her neck, back behind her shoulder. Such a simple gesture, yet it felt terribly personal. The air grew thick and sticky with her awareness of him. She shifted in her seat and crossed her legs.

Madisonstared into his eyes. Green, she thought, his eyes were green, gorgeous and intense, with ridiculously long eyelashes women would fantasize about. If they didn’t, they should. A flicker of compassion, concern, and something else she couldn’t identify flashed in his eyes.

“Ready?” he asked.

The husky tenor of his voice forced her gaze to shift to his mouth. Nice, sexy lips, designed for kissing. She gave a mental shake but couldn’t resist wondering how his mouth would feel on hers.

“Madison?” Humor deepened his voice, a touch of a smile tilted the edges of the lips she’d been fantasizing about, and she realized she still stared at them. “You ready?” he asked again, and her eyes widened in embarrassment over her foolish stupor.

She swallowed hard. “Yeah.” She whispered past the lump in her throat and forced her vision to lock on the wall over his shoulder. Good God, what was wrong with her? Her pulse throbbed like crazy, and she felt woozy. Loss of blood! Must be why she reacted that way. No other explanation made sense.

Even though the antiseptic stung like hell, the gentle touch coming from such a gruff man surprised her. “It’s not bad,” he said, dabbing the blood away. “Just a nick.”

Well, she could nix the blood loss theory. Exhaustion and stress were the only other excuses she could come up with. “I’ve suffered worse.” Her voice sounded off, kind of hoarse. She tried to clear her throat delicately, but he must have noticed her unease, because his perceptive eyes met hers. Again, she thought she caught the edge of concern reflected in their green depths.

“This isn’t the first time he’s attacked you?”

“No. It’s the first time he’s tried to seriously kill me, though.” She sighed as she closed her eyes, ready to give up fighting, the sudden tears threatening to fall. Okay, woozy and acting strange because of strain…not because of him. Seriously, as far as first impressions went, she wasn’t impressed.

 

PANDORA’S BOX is available now at the following sites in ebook and print formats:

Decadent Publishing:
http://www.decadentpublishing.com/product_info.php?products_id=326&osCsid=197c7ca45f989e3b22059c5b92c9475d 

Amazon: 

Pandora's Box (The Road to Hell Series)

Barnes & Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pandoras-box-gracen-miller/1105010763?ean=2940011467097&itm=3&usri=gracen%2bmiller 

ARe (ebook only): 
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-pandora039sbox-594252-140.html 

Smashwords (ebook only):
http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/82329

 

Hell’s Phoenix Blurb (book 2):

 

Hell’s become more than just a playground for the wicked…

 

Going to Hell was supposed to save Madison, but knowing she’s dead because of his failure leaves Nix with only one thing to live for. Revenge. With Micah’s help he learns to use his Messianic power. Anything for Mads has become his mantra, even if it means killing innocents to gather the power he needs to succeed. A tsunami he unleashes on aGulfCoast city is stopped with magical interference, and Nix is more than surprised to feelMadison in the opposing magic. Can he and Micah set a trap to lure her out?

 

Pandora’s Box…once you open it, there’s no turning back!

 

Madisonhas done the unthinkable, opened Pandora’s Box to save Nix from Hell. And failed. She’s willing to risk her own life to rescue Nix, but she worries about the welfare of her accomplice in the mission and leaving her son behind. Following up on a lead, she’s ambushed by Nix and Micah. Shocked and hurt to discover Nix has become a willing participant of Hell, she’s more certain than ever she won’t escape the demonic fate her husband outlined for her. While in Hell, she discovers denying the emergence of her succubus is futile, which means getting Nix out of Hell after embracing her inner demon just became a very real dilemma…

Hell’s Phoenix Excerpt:

“You’ll heal her promptly,” Micah growled, shifting back into his human persona, as he offered his legs as a pillow for her head. She’d have pushed him away if she could’ve managed to contort her body to that angle.

Madisongaped at the blood darkening her jeans and spreading down her thigh. “That hurts way worse than I thought being shot would.”

“I need to get your pants off, Mads, to heal you.” Nix’s fingers went to the snap of her jeans.

She knocked his hands away. “You’ll heal the others first.”

“He shot the main artery in your thigh, Madison. You’ll bleed out before he finishes with them.” Micah compressed his lips together and spoke as if he ground his teeth together. “I’ve lost you twice. I will not lose you again.”

“Death would at least grant me freedom from you!”

Micah’s mouth flattened in displeasure. “Phoenix, I would ask you to do as she requests.”

“Goddamnit, Mads, I swear I’ll heal them immediately after I take care of you.”

Madisonglared at Nix. “E kawoja ciok tauqelv.” I refuse your healing. Nix spewed curses in Xapil. “Impressive, you’ve learned how to curse in demon.”

Nix scowled. “Stubborn.”

Madisonclenched her teeth in silent mutiny. Nix cupped the back of her head, tugged slightly and kissed her hard on the lips. Excitement zinged through her system. Her attraction to him always presented itself at the most inappropriate moments.

“I find that stubborn trait sexy, baby.”

“Flattery gets you nowhere, Nix.” She winced at the tug against her wounded flesh as he rested her against Micah’s thighs.

“What does?” Nix jerked the hem of one pant leg up and tugged the blade strapped to her ankle out of its harness.

“Good deeds.”

He brandished the knife he’d given her for her thirtieth birthday and grinned. “Does healing them count?”

“No.”

Nix rolled to his feet and leveled her with his stare. “You’re a hard woman to please.”

“Cease the flirtations with my wife.” Micah’s grip on her shoulders intensified. “Heal those bottom-feeders, and then heal her.”

***

HELL’S PHOENIX available now at the following sites:

Decadent Publishing:

http://www.decadentpublishing.com/advanced_search_result.php?osCsid=6c1232251c1e45744bd0b3ee7262f414&categories_id=&inc_subcat=1&pfrom=0&pto=999999&dfrom=&dto=&manufacturers_id=82 

Amazon:

Hell's Phoenix (The Road to Hell)

Smashwords: 
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/133450 

ARe: 
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/storeSearch.html 

Barnes & Noble: Coming Soon