Blog Guest: Dianne Hartsock and a GIVEAWAY

I am delighted to welcome Dianne Hartsock back onto my blog today, author of Wee Willie Winkie, from the Naughty Nursery Rhyme line published by Breathless Press (amongst many other titles including the Shelton in Love series, as featured in my Countdown to Christmas giveaway event).

A glutton for punishment, Dianne is here to face a round of twenty questions, so let’s try to get to know her, and her newest release, that little bit better.

Thank you so much for having me back again! *sips double-espresso for courage* Okay, ask your questions.

ACT ONE – all about you…

I live in the beautiful Willamette Valley of Oregon with my husband where I write stories of paranormal/suspense, fantasy/adventure, m/m romance and anything else that comes to mind. 

Currently, I work as a floral designer in a locally-owned gift shop. Which is the perfect job for me. When not writing, I can express myself through the rich colors and textures of flowers and foliage.

1) Have you always been a writer or is it something you fell into?

I’ve always been a storyteller, making up bedtime stories for my younger brothers and sister. When I started in the first grade I began to write these stories down. But it wasn’t until an amazing creative writing teacher I had in my early teens told me I had potential, encouraging me to submit my stories to the local magazine, that my passion began. I’ve had a love affair with writing ever since.

2) Do you have a particular writing style or ritual?

Nothing specific. Usually a bit of music or a magazine picture or something on TV, even a customer at work will catch my interest and I'll start to build a story around it. I'll think about it for a few days or a week plotting it out, then one day I'll sit down in front of the computer and begin to write. Unfortunately, this usually happens when I'm in the middle of edits on something else, or worse case, haven't finished a current story. When that happens I get the first couple of paragraphs down, then let it simmer while I finish the other. Nope, I'm not one of those authors who can work on more than one story at a time. As for ritual, a pot of coffee and some music is about all I really need to get going!

3) I see that you specialize in male/male romance; was this always your intention or did you find yourself led in this direction by your characters?

I absolutely blame my characters! My stories are always character driven. I love putting my heroes in an uncomfortable situation then digging deep into their psyche to see how they react. The more intense the emotions I can draw out, the better I like it. And what's more intense than love? (besides hate, which isn't as much fun to write about) But why m/m erotic? I think it's the thrill of the unknown. Being a girl, I know what it's like when someone touches, kisses, and makes me angry. No surprise there. But with a male character, I have to climb right into their body and mind, really engage all my senses and imagine what they're feeling at a given moment. I love the challenge and excitement and sensuality that comes with this.

4) Is there a book or an author that has influenced you in your writing?

'The Fortress' series by C.J. Cherryh for my fantasy. Her hero Tristan breaks my heart.

Ray Bradbury for Science Fiction.

'Lost Souls' and the 'Soul Kitchen' series by Poppy Z. Brite for my m/m erotic romance.

5) Can you tell us three things about yourself that we probably don’t already know?

I'm the mother of two amazing people, both in college. I'm deathly allergic to tree nuts and legumes. I've had a mad crush on Andrej Pejic for about two years now.

6) What five luxury items or gadgets would you hate to be without?

My coffee maker with the built-in coffee grinder. This laptop, of course. DVD player and TV to watch all my scifi shows. CD player. Cell phone (another of course).

ACT TWO – all about your new release…

Available now

For the past three years William Wilkerson has led the life of the privileged rich. Head of his father’s shipping business, Willie indulges in the pleasures of Boston’s fine young men to his heart’s content. That is, until he meets Fredrick, the one man who has captured his heart, again.

As his former tutor, Fredrick has been declared off limits by William’s father. Fredrick also believes he's beneath the attention of Wilkerson’s heir. Willie disagrees, but is he willing to throw away rank and privilege for the man he loves?

7) Congratulations on your recent release of Wee Willie Winkie, can you tell us what your inspiration was for writing William and Fredrick’s story?

When Breathless Press put out the call for Naughty Nursery Rhymes, I racked my brain to remember the ones I'd heard as a child. One of the first to come to mind, and my favorite, was Wee Willie Winkie:

 

Wee Willie Winkie runs through the town,

Up stairs and down stairs in his night-gown,

Tapping at the window, crying at the lock,

Are the children in their bed, for it's past ten o'clock?

All I could picture was a naughty little boy with an impish grin and a spark of mischief in his eyes. And a nightgown? Made me think of the turn of the nineteenth century, when men still wore nightgowns. I couldn't get the picture of a grown man running around in a nightgown out of my mind, and built a story around how that might happen. And of course, what's a story without a beautiful lover so Willie could have his HEA? 

8) Did the story flow from your finger tips or did some scenes take a bit of cajoling?

Actually, the story flowed very smoothly, seeming to write itself. I fell instantly in love with my characters, and the plot unfolded at a nice pace. I never quite know where a story is going to end up when I'm writing it, but it was a fun adventure the boys took me on.

9) How long did it take for the initial spark of the story to make it onto the page and then onto the publisher’s desk?

I didn't decide to write a NNR until the last minute and so had only two weeks before the deadline to write it in. Since I also have a full time job, it's a bit of a scramble for me to write a story in that short of a time. But I'd been toying with the idea for Wee Willie Winkie for a bit, so when I sat down to write, it was pretty much ready to go. I think I finished the last sentence and sent it off the day before the deadline. That's cutting it close!

10) Do you have a favourite paragraph or sentence that you would like to tantalize us with?

A sigh brought his gaze up to the pretty face that stirred his dreams. Rich brown curls surrounded lovely hazel eyes and full, pouting lips. He groaned when a delighted smile revealed the even, white teeth that had nipped his collarbone on more than one glorious occasion. "Freddie, is it you?"

11) Over to you, what can you tell us about Wee Willie Winkie, to make us rush out and buy it?

This is a story of passion and heartache, with William ashamed of his decadent past and Fredrick bent on proving to him that love is all that matters.

12) What can we expect from you next? Is there something you are working on right now?

I have three flashes in the 'Hot Flashes' anthology coming out in March from Breathless Press. I also have a short story in the anthology 'Her Story' celebrating Women's History Month, also in March. And I've signed a contract for the Ad-Dick-tion Anthology coming out later this year from Breathless Press.

At the moment I'm working on another contemporary m/m erotic romance, Jack and Peter, that I'm really excited about! I don't want to give away too much yet, but Jack finds a beautiful stranger sleeping on his patio who captures his heart but also puts his life in danger.

QUICK FIRE ROUND – it’s pop quiz time…

13) Plotter or pantser?

A little of both! I'll have a story loosely plotted out; I know where I want to start and where to end it. But in between is anyone's game!

14) Secret Seven or Famous Five? (please tell me you know them!?)

*wrinkles forehead* Aren't they children's stories? And no, I've never read them.

15) Digital books or print books?

I have a collection of romance novels from 1880-1920 that I love. They smell wonderful. I love holding them in my hands, turning the soft paper pages, shedding a few tears over them. On the other hand, warm cocoa and a blanket and snuggling up with my kindle is pretty sweet as well!

16) Tea or coffee? 

Coffee with a giant capital 'C'!

17) Cats or dogs?

If I weren't allergic to them, I'd be a cat person. Love the little cuties!

18) Extrovert or introvert?

Introvert. I'm getting better at putting myself out there, but it's still a struggle.

19) Save or spend?

Save a little, spend a little.

20) Facebook or Twitter?

Facebook

And that’s a wrap!

Thank you so much for taking part, Dianne, I love the excerpt you've shared with us and have giggled at all the 'naughty Willies' I've been seeing on my online travels.

If you want to know what I mean, you'll just have to follow Dianne here:

Blog    Facebook     Twitter     Goodreads

Thank you so much for having me over! It's been fun.

Give-away time!

Comment below, telling me what your favorite nursery rhyme is for a chance to win an e-copy of any book on my backlist! Don't forget to leave your contact info.

Buy it now...

ISBN: 978-1-77101-934-7
Heat Rating: 3
Word Count: 11260

Breathless Press
Amazon
Amazon UK
All Romance ebooks

Excerpt...

Fredrick held up his glass and stared at the candle's flame through the amber liquid. He took a sip, savored the rich, biting taste on his tongue. He welcomed the burn down his throat. This was the very last drink he could afford, and he had to make it last.

A giggle erupted from the booth in the corner, the one whose curtains were drawn against curious eyes. A smile tugged at Fredrick's lips despite the dire state of his wallet. The laugh had been carefree, joyous, naughty. Fredrick shifted on the cushioned bench. Only a few straggling customers remained in the dining room. He wondered if any of them would notice if he shifted his cramped cock as it throbbed in sympathy with the bright laughter.

Rather than risk it, he watched the fruit vender outside the window beguile a customer. Another giggle and stifled moan swiveled his attention back to the corner. A silk-clad foot and slim calf peeked beneath the curtain. He grinned even as the delectable sight emphasized his own loneliness. It had been far too long since he'd had someone in his bed.

"Excuse me. Sir?"

Fredrick looked up, distracted from his memory of lush lips and white skin and wide, hazel eyes, and blinked at the stout innkeeper at his elbow. "Yes?"

A frown fleeted across the man's homely face at another bout of laughter from the corner. "If they're disturbing you, I can have Wee Willie take his guest upstairs. Excuse me, I mean Mister Wilkerson." The man broke off, flustered by the slip of the tongue.

Fredrick's heart leaped on hearing the name mentioned. Is William really here? How could that be? The innkeeper coughed, and Fredrick frowned at the intrusion into his thoughts. The man was so damned serious about such a minor indiscretion. "They're no bother. In fact, I'm almost done anyway." He lifted his nearly empty glass. Hearing a shout, they looked over in time to see a young man tumble through the curtains onto the floor. Fredrick caught a glimpse of red hair and an embarrassed cheek before the gentleman crammed a hat on his head and strode passed them, face averted. The innkeeper shrugged and followed, likely to be sure he paid for his drinks.

Fredrick stared at the silk-clad foot still protruding from the parted curtains. He loosened his hold on his glass but had no way to stop the wild hammering of his heart. Before he lost his courage, he stood and swallowed the last of his brandy, then walked the short distance to the booth.

A grin tugged the corner of his mouth at his eagerness. It had been three years, after all, and they'd parted in anger. Would William acknowledge him? His hand trembled as he drew aside the heavy curtain and allowed his gaze to travel up the silky hose to bright blue trousers. Blood heated his face when he found the laces undone at the waist and the silk shirt open to expose white skin and rosebud nipples.

A sigh brought his gaze up to the pretty face that stirred his dreams. Rich brown curls surrounded lovely hazel eyes and full, pouting lips. He groaned when a delighted smile revealed the even, white teeth that had nipped his collarbone on more than one glorious occasion. "Freddie, is it you?"

Valentine's Double Bill - Blog Guest: Michaela Rhua

In this Valentine's special double feature, I am also delighted to welcome Michaela Rhua onto my blog today, author of Guardian Awakening, recently released by Breathless Press.

So, let’s going with another round of twenty questions as we try to get to know Michaela – or should that be Micky? – that little bit better…

ACT ONE – all about you… 

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 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.

Michaela is a multi-published author with Breathless Press, Evernight Publishing and a self-published anthology with authors from The Nuthouse Scribblers.

1) Have you always been a writer or is it something you fell into?

No, I have a day job but I have always scribbled. It never really struck me as something to do for real. Until I met a group called UCW who write as The Nuthouse Scribblers. I am fortunate to be part of that great group of women who inspire me daily and kick my ass when I need it.

2) Do you have a particular writing style or ritual?

Absolutely not. I write when I can. When the household is settled, homework done and hubby sorted.

3) Is there a book or an author that has influenced you in your writing?

I have always read anything and everything. So growing up it was all the classics that I loved, but recently I have to say it is a collection of people. JR Ward and Gena Showalter create believable worlds. Doris O'Connor gets into the emotions, Raven McAllan weaves magic with her words, especially her Regency, Kiru Taye brings of African culture alive and Cherie Nicholls brings in humour and attitude galore!

Sorry I know you said 1 but I am a little greedy!

4) I first came across your name via The Nuthouse Scribblers, so what is it like to be one of ‘The Nutters’ (LOL)?

As the motto says 'you don't have to be mad…' but it certainly helps. It is a vibrant place, ideas flow as does praise and encouragement. The tissues are on hand, as is the whip, to get you going! All in all it is a fabulous group of women!

5) Can you tell us three things about yourself that we probably don’t already know?

Can I take a pass?

6) What five luxury items or gadgets would you hate to be without?

My netbook, phone, chocolate, red wine and Earl Grey tea!

ACT TWO – all about your new release…

Available NOW

Essen is out for revenge, and exotic dancer Romy is his target. After the struggle for control of the Gateway between the human world and the supernatural world brings tragedy, this Guardian Demon will stop at nothing to get what he wants: retribution! From the moment they first meet, sparks fly between them, and they cannot deny the connection they have, even if she seems to be hiding her true identity. But how is this possible when they are from two different worlds? Can their love overcome the tormented history that divides them? When Romy is kidnapped, Essen must face his true feelings before it's too late.

7) Congratulations on your recent release of Guardian Awakening – which I believe is your debut stand-alone novella – can you tell us what your inspiration was for writing Essen and Romy’s story?

Thank you Allie, I am delighted with this book, especially as I managed to get a star on All Romance Ebooks! I have no idea what inspired the story. I just opened a blank document and started typing. I knew I wanted it to be paranormal, which is a genre that I love. But other than that I had no real plan or plot, so a real pantser one!

8) Did the story flow from your finger tips or did some scenes take a bit of cajoling?

This story flowed from the very beginning. I was in the mood to write so opened a blank document and just started. Out it flowed. But it did need 'rediting' – that is red penning by The Nutters!

9) How long did it take for the initial spark of the story to make it onto the page and then onto the publisher’s desk?

Not sure really. It did take a while to shape it. I do like to sit on a story and make changes later. That way I can see issues clearer. The journey to a YES was not straight. In fact, I got a R & R (Revise and Resubmit) from Breathless Press. The feedback was great so that it what I did! I made the suggested changes and sent it back. The answer was a YES!

10) Do you have a favourite paragraph or sentence that you would like to tantalise us with?

Here's the tagline: When a runaway meets a Guardian out for revenge, two worlds collide. Can love conquer all, or is their relationship doomed before it even started?

11) Over to you, what can you tell us about Guardian Awakening, to make us rush out and buy it?

It is the story of two people on opposite sides. One is after the other but when they meet, sparks fly and revenge isn't as easy as it seemed. Then slowly the truth comes out and forces them to face their pasts.

That's all I am going to say, otherwise I might give too much away!

12) What can we expect from you next? Is there something you are working on right now?

I have drafted the second book in The Guardians series, which is called Guardian Possession. It is sitting and waiting for me to get back to it Then I will need to think about the last book in the series. I know who it will be about but other than that nothing!

I have a book called Truth or Dare coming out with Evernight Publishing soon and I am in the edits stage of Logan's Captive, which is in book 3 of The Blood Moon Chronicles, also through Breathless Press. Book 1 and 2 are out already.

The rest are all ideas and scribbles!

QUICK FIRE ROUND – it’s pop quiz time…

13) Plotter or pantser?

Plantser! A mixture of both. At times I am a Pantser like Guardian Awakening, at others I am a Plotter; a new story in my scribble book.

14) Secret Seven or Famous Five? (please tell me you know them!?)

Famous Five.

15) Digital books or print books?

Both.

16) Tea or coffee?

Tea – Earl Grey.

17) Cats or dogs?

Dogs.

18) Extrovert or introvert?

Both. Depends on the situation.

19) Save or spend?

Save, so I can run off to my desert island!

20) Facebook or Twitter?

Facebook.

And that’s a wrap!

Thank you so much for taking part, Michaela etc….

Thank you for having me today. I loved being here and the questions were fun!

You can keep up with Michaela by visiting her at:

Website     Blog     Twitter     Pinterest     Facebook

Buy it now...

Breathless Press
All Romance eBooks
Amazon
Amazon UK

Excerpt...

She slowly walked across to the sound system and chose a track to dance to. Sometimes customers liked to choose their own music, but he had not done so. She selected R. Kelly's "Ignition." The beat kicked in, and Romy dropped her hip to the right, stepped back, and dropped her hip to the left. She swung round with her hands on her breasts, eyes half-closed, and really got into it. The music took over; she gyrated her hips toward him, and she slid her hands up and down her body. She wove her body back around to him and bent forward, giving him a great view of her ass as she brought her hands up to separate her cheeks and quickly let go. Spinning around again, she bounced to the music, knowing her breasts were the star of the show for this bit. She let her hands wander between her legs and into her black panties before moving her hand out and pinging the elastic. 

The whole time she maintained as much eye contact as she could. Licking her lips often and moving forward, she put her breasts as close as she could without touching. Turning around she placed her hands on his legs and felt firm thighs. She sat in his lap and ground her ass into his obvious erection. The movements were meant to arouse the customer into paying for more time. Some even climaxed, which was why there were tissues and wipes under the table. This time she found herself lost to the music, and the contact with his jeans-clad cock sent jolts throughout her body. She touched herself in time with the rhythm, getting aroused as the heat between them rose. Romy had never felt so good dancing for anyone before. 

This was when some customers lost control and tried to make a grab. So she got up and strutted to the door. She spun on the spot and spread her arms, draping herself across the door, swinging her hips so her ass was rubbing against the wood behind her. The rubbing action caused him to shift his position. She knew he was trying to make his hard cock more comfortable in his jeans. His blues eyes sparkled, and she could see he was clenching his jaw; his hands were fisted at his sides. She danced closer to the door, hips swinging, ass at all angles, and breasts squeezed together. The track went into fade, and Romy gradually stopped, smiling her "were you happy with that" smile, and stood still. 

That had been amazing; she had never felt so alive, so eager to show herself to a man before. He stood up slowly. Then he walked over to her, his movements that of a prowling animal. The bulge in his trousers was obvious. Romy took a step back and hit the door, and she gulped. He was huge next to her; in her heels she stood at five feet ten inches, but he was well over six feet with huge shoulders, blond, shoulder-length hair, and a stubbled chin. He reached into his jacket pocket, pulled out a few notes, and hooked them into her red lace bra. That brief touch sent sparks through, her straight to her clit. He was so close; she could feel his warmth and longed to be closer still. He took a deep breath as though he were inhaling her scent, and she groaned inwardly. 

Leaning forward he said, "Thank you, Romy." 

His hot breath fanned her neck. She gazed up at him. How did he know my name?

Valentine's Double Bill - Blog Guest: Melissa Jolley with a GIVEAWAY

Seeing as it's Valentine's Day, I've organised a double bill of guests and brand new romance titles to help get you in the spirit of things.

First up is Melissa Jolley, author of When Angels Fall, published by Breathless Press and released TOMORROW but you can pre-order today. And if you keep reading, you'll see she's brought a prize with her too!

I’m sure you’re all familiar by now with the format, so let’s get going with another round of twenty questions as we try to get to know Melissa that little bit better… 

ACT ONE – all about you…

Melissa is a proud Kiwi girl currently residing on the South Coast of England with her young family. She embraces the lighter side of love, sex, and the paranormal and thus aims for that in her writing.

Her passion is writing men who are rough and ready for anything and women who can usually look after themselves, but won't say no to the right man tagging along.

She sets her stories in places she has visited and loved with the type of people she would have a few drinks and a barbecue with--if only they were flesh and blood. 

1) Have you always been a writer or is it something you fell into?

A bit of both I guess. I've always loved writing but never thought I could be a writer. In my mind it was the domain of intellectuals like Tolkien & C.S. Lewis or the rich and famous such as Joan Collins ;). JK Rowling made me realise the error of my ways. Then I met two of my 'Mummy Friends' who both enjoyed writing, and they gave me the courage to give it a go. I knew nothing about the craft of writing, but was fortunate to meet people that could help me. My writing is a constant learning process. 

2) Do you have a particular writing style or ritual?

Does finding a time when I don't feel guilty for neglecting my family and the housework a style?! Guess not. 

I do have to have humour in my books. I'm a huge fan of Joss Whedon (Buffy, Angel, Firefly) & Richard Curtis (Four Weddings, Love Actually, Vicar of Dibley) their writing is always packed with humour, but they excel at creating a lot of heart in their characters. That's what I aim for though I'm definitely not in their league. 

3) Is there a book or an author that has influenced you in your writing? 

Apart from the two lads above, I'm a huge JK Rowling fan. My friend Serenity Woods has been absolutely vital to my writing and she has been very generous and taught me so much. I particularly love her characters. Her heroines are never neurotic and heroes are to die for. Her secondary characters are always great fun too. 

4) As a Kiwi now living in England, have you noticed a discernible difference between NZ/UK writing styles? 

I'm not as widely read in Kiwi fiction as I'd like to be, but I don't think so especially not in romantic fiction—Love is love no matter what country you're in. My biggest problem is figuring out whether I'm speaking Kiwi, Brit or American! 

5) Can you tell us three things about yourself that we probably don’t already know? 

I met my Kiwi husband in the middle of nowhere (aka Forest Green), Surrey, UK. It turned out my mum & his parents lived 2 minutes away from each other back in NZ. 

I'm half Maori and half pakeha (which means white. My Mum's parents were English). 

I hate reality TV with a passion! 

6) What five luxury items or gadgets would you hate to be without? 

Hmm. My phone (I use it to read as well), my laptop, my DVD collection, my bed—I do most of my writing there (research too ;)) oh and my new noise cancelling headphones! 

ACT TWO – all about your new release…

Out tomorrow; pre-order TODAY!

When Melody meets Alec, sparks fly—literally. Now he must protect her, but can he protect his heart in process?

Alec Connolly has led a mostly peaceful life since he fell from heaven a century ago. That is, until Melody Fremont pops up on his radar.

Melody has twice as much life force as a normal human, which is like catnip for demons. Now Alec must find a way to protect the spirited bartender, while keeping the vows he made to a woman long dead.

As Alec and Melody draw closer together, will Alec be able to protect her from his past, and himself from falling further than he ever thought he could?

7) Congratulations on your release of When Angels Fall, can you tell us what your inspiration was for writing Melody and Alec’s story?

Edinburgh! I love it there, I'd move there if I could. It's a gorgeous city with fabulous tiny alleyways. In the beginning all I had was a man standing in the shadows watching a girl leave work late at night. I wasn't sure whether he was the hero or the villain, but I loved the imagery. Which is funny because I didn't end up using it in the way I originally intended.

8) Did the story flow from your finger tips or did some scenes take a bit of cajoling?

This one definitely flowed. I loved writing this story, which is scary because the easier they are to write the more protective I am of sending them out to the big wide world.

9) How long did it take for the initial spark of the story to make it onto the page and then onto the publisher’s desk?

Hmm good question. I'm a terrible time keeper so I'm not sure. It was the second story I wrote, but it got a rejection from one pub before Breathless gave it a home. I think maybe three months to write and another four or five before ending up at Breathless Press. I think there was actually a few months in between where I let it stew for a while too.

10) Do you have a favourite paragraph or sentence that you would like to tantalise us with?

Okay, here's the first meeting between Alec and Melody.

"Hi, I'm Alec. I'll be your chauffeur this morning." He gave her a small crooked smile while extending his hand in greeting. After living in Edinburgh for five years, she thought she'd become immune to the accent. Something about his voice sent shivers down her spine though, and the tingle continued in places that didn't do much tingling anymore. Alec, must be Scottish for "the god of sex."

11) Over to you, what can you tell us about When Angels Fall, to make us rush out and buy it?

Hmm. How about: angels, demons, Edinburgh, lightning hands, hot shower sex, Harry Potter references, punk/goth/rock chick best friend, hot table sex, red-headed hero (shh don't tell Alec I said that, he likes to pretend he's blond!)

12) What can we expect from you next? Is there something you are working on right now?

I'm in the middle of the third and final Feral. Hopefully now life is getting back to normal in our house I can get it done sooner rather than later :/. This one is fun because it's all about redeeming my bad girl from Wolf's Heart.

QUICK FIRE ROUND – it’s pop quiz time…

13) Plotter or pantser?

Panster, definitely pantser!

14) Secret Seven or Famous Five? (please tell me you know them!?)

Lol I sure do. I was definitely a Famous Five girl, but when I should have been reading them I was reading Agatha Christie's instead!

15) Digital books or print books?

Both! I love digital, and wouldn't be published without it, but there are some books I HAVE to have in print. All the Harry Potters for starters.

16) Tea or coffee?

Hot Chocolate (I'm such a rebel!)

17) Cats or dogs?

Dogs. (Though I do like cats too)

18) Extrovert or introvert?

Extrovert

19) Save or spend?

Spend (unfortunately L)

20) Facebook or Twitter?

Facebook (My husband hates both and calls me Facebook Twitter, when he feels ignored!)

And that’s a wrap!

Thank you so much for taking part, Melissa, I wish you every success with your new release. And having first sampled Melissa's writing with Her Mr Perfect Christmas, I shall be adding When Angels Fall to my TBR list.

It's been my absolute pleasure. Thank you so much for having me here.

Melissa loves to hear from readers, you can find her at:

Website     Blog     Facebook     Twitter

Buy it here...

ISBN: 978-1-77101-904-0
Heat Rating: 3 / Word Count: 30560

Breathless Press

Amazon

Amazon UK

All Romance eBooks

Giveaway...

Do you remember that giveaway I promised you? Let me hand you back to Melissa:

Okay for a bit of fun I'd love to know your opinions on what makes a hero SUPER hot! Do you like alphas, nerds, jokesters, fair or dark, big muscles or long and lean? I'm keen to know that one little (or big ;)) thing is that will make you weak at the knees. And one randomly chosen commenter will receive a copy of Her Mr Perfect Christmas.

Excerpt:

As she opened the door she received her most pleasant visual experience of the day; a shirtless Alec, also wearing only a towel and holding a large plush robe. It was almost more than she could stand. Conflict raged within her because she was still angry at him for apologizing about the kiss, especially after she had wanted him to so badly. When he had, it was breathtaking, and he had been so strong and in control. The kiss had set such a blaze in the deepest part of her core that she was surprised she didn't self-combust. Despite this, she sensed he was holding something back. There seemed to be urgency in the kiss, as if it would be the first and last one they ever shared. She was determined to make sure it wasn't the last.

Now, he stood before her, his eyes deep pools of lust and longing, and she revelled in his stare. She forgot about the park and her anger at his rejection—he had kissed her, after all. Now she wanted to feel his caress again, know his taste, and get better acquainted with the hard body she couldn't stop admiring.

He raised his gaze back to hers. "Great minds think alike, it seems. I just thought I'd better bring you something to put on before I jumped in the shower."

"I'm sorry, did you want this shower?" Her voice was coy; her thoughts were anything but.

"No, it's fine. I have six to choose from upstairs." Blinking appeared to be low on his list of priorities as he continued to stare.

It's now or never, girl! The deep breath she took fortified her before she spoke in what she hoped was a very nonchalant way. "Oh, all right then." She turned around and dropped the towel at her feet as she sashayed into the extra-large shower cubicle.

She permitted herself a single look over her shoulder, a brief smile playing across her lips at Alec's gaping mouth.

"You should close that, unless you want to trap flies." She stepped under the waterfall shower, letting it envelop her.

Giveaway: Win a copy of SERVICED anthology

The giveaway contest to win a hot-off-the-press digital copy of the hot new military-themed anthology, SERVICED, to be released by Breathless Press on March 1st 2013, is NOW OPEN. [ETA the release date has been brought forward - it was the 8th, but is now the 1st. Yay!]

You can enter in a variety of ways, using the entry form below (may not work on mobiles/tablets) and also directly from the home page.

GOOD LUCK!!

Entry-Form

Cover Love: Serviced - Volume 1

I'm interrupting the regular guest feature to bring you the cover art for my debut story, For One Night Only, which is being featured in Serviced - Volume 1 from Breathless Press.

All being well, this hot stuff - featuring ten stories from some fantastic authors - will be available from March 8th 2013 on the publisher's own website, and on third party sites as soon as possible after.

Happy ogling ;-)

PS Followers of my website's 'News' page got first looks at this yesterday, have you subscribed yet?

Blog Guest: Kayla Jameth

I am delighted to welcome Kayla Jameth onto my blog today, author of From the Ashes published by Breathless Press.

In keeping in my favourite ‘three act structure’, here we go with another round of twenty questions as we try to get to know Kayla that little bit better.

Thank you, Aurelia. <Clears Throat Nervously> I hope I know all the answers to the questions.

ACT ONE – all about you…

A knight and a former princess, Kayla Jameth now spends her time writing m/m romance. A true Renaissance woman, she has done everything from cross stitch like a proper lady to welding with the best of them. An eclectic life has left her with an unique understanding of the world inhabited by men and an appreciation for the difficulties faced by men in m/m relationships. It is her devout wish that her experiences translate into a richer telling of such tales.

1) Have you always been a writer or is it something you fell into?

It is something that I fell into. A friend asked me to help edit her Bleach slash fanfiction. Since she and I read a lot of yaoi, I was more than happy to help. So I became Kei-chan and started reading slash. Unfortunately, most of the Samurai Champloo slash was mediocre at best. I foolishly said, "I can write better than that!" and my friend made me back it up.

I had some friends who liked what I did enough to encourage me to continue. My first piece of non-fanfiction was From the Ashes. I continued to write erotic short stories based on "inspiration photos". One of which, Legends, was picked up by Breathless Press for an anthology.

Another photo inspired a much longer piece from me entitled Alexios' Fate and is my first novel. While working on the sequel to Alexios' tale, I revamped From the Ashes and now I can say that I am multiply published!

2) Do you have a particular writing style or ritual?

No, I can't say that I do. I just sit down and work on my story whenever I can.

3) I see that you specialise in male/male romance; was this always your intention – a conscious decision before you ever picked up a pen – or did you find yourself led in this direction by your characters?

I started reading yaoi years ago and was hooked. My friend Sara introduced me to m/m romances and there was no escape.

Since my first piece was a fanfiction slash, it's no surprise that I continued in that vein and have been writing m/m ever since. Besides, I find that I have no interest in het romances. I never have. I don't identify with the heroines. I'm too much of a tomboy.

4) Is there a book or an author that has influenced you in your writing?

AB Gayle and Deanna Wadsworth have directly influenced my writing. Alison edited all my fledgling attempts and taught me important things like POV and show not tell. I call Deanna the queen of gab. She has taught me how to increase dialog in my stories.

JL Langley's stories were an eye-opener and have influenced my sex scenes.

5) Can you tell us three things about yourself that we probably don’t already know?

I am a former princess regent. In that post, I was responsible for the arts and sciences (culture) of a D&D based LARP. That means I can sew amazing medieval/fantasy costumes, and have worn chain mail into battle. I'm also a knight because of this.

I am a science/math geek. I graduated at the top of my class, even in college I've always been in the top 5%.

I'm a tomboy. I grew up on a farm. I can: weld, make maple syrup, drive a tractor, wrangle cattle, can veggies, sew, do cross-stitch/embroidery, and a slew of other things.

All in all, I am a bit of a Renaissance woman.

6) What five luxury items or gadgets would you hate to be without?

My Kindle DX

My Kindle Fire

My Kindle for iPhone and the iPhone it rode in on

Anything that has a copy of Word 2010 and DropBox on it

Umm... Maybe I'll get a Kindle Fire HD?

ACT TWO – all about your new release…

Available NOW!

Cinder is not just another pretty face. He aspires to be his own man, but finds himself longing to belong to another man.

Cinder never thought that he could rise from the ashes of his life, but an unexpected encounter with a woman claiming to be his fairy godmother may be just what he needs. Finding himself flung into his very own fairy tale, she sends him off to meet his Prince Charming. But was the gown really necessary?

7) Congratulations on your recent release of From the Ashes, already garnering fabulous reviews, but can you tell us what your inspiration was for writing Cinder and Henri’s story?

Thank you! I'm very proud of that boy and his prince.

How did I come to meet Cinder? A mutual friend, Linda Reilly, read the Samurai Champloo fanfiction slash I had written and suggested I write an m/m fairy tale for a submission call. I remember thinking at the time "Yeah, right! Who wants to read something I wrote?" But I like puzzles and so I found myself thinking about plausible scenarios for one. I finally settled on a Cinderfella (m/m version of the classic Cinderella story).

Once I came up with the scenario, Cinder wouldn't give me a moment's peace. Remember that fanfic I was writing? I was working on the third chapter and Cinder wouldn't let me finish it until I wrote his story. Insistent little thing! So I set Infinite Infatuation aside and went where Cinder wanted me to go.

8) Did the story flow from your finger tips or did some scenes take a bit of cajoling?

That first night, I wrote half the story! I finally tore myself away from his clutches at 4:00 am. I had to get up at 6:00 am for work. That pissed him off and he didn't talk to me again for a couple of days. But in the end, I got his story down.

9) How long did it take for the initial spark of the story to make it onto the page and then onto the publisher’s desk?

I wrote the original draft nearly three years ago in about a week's time. Then in May of last year, I worked it over and sent it to my favorite beta readers. I sent it to my editor in June and she picked it up.

10) Do you have a favourite paragraph or sentence that you would like to tantalise us with?

Just one??? <Sigh...> Ok, I'll give it a try. Let's see.

The man caught his eye and smiled, somewhat more predatorily than Cinder was entirely comfortable with. What was going through the aristocrat's mind? Cinder began to feel like one of the small cakes the footmen carried on silver trays.

There! I did it, but there is so much more I want to tell you too.

11) Over to you, what can you tell us about From the Ashes, to make us rush out and buy it?

From the Ashes is a sweet m/m take on the classic Cinderella tale, but with some twists that you may not be expecting. Not to mention the hot sex scenes!

12) What can we expect from you next? Is there something you are working on right now?

I have a short story entitled 496 BC, Alexios' Fate 1.5, due out this year in an anthology.

I'm working on books two and three in the Apollo's Men series. The continuation of Alexios and Galen's story is currently untitled and approximately 2/3 through the rough draft stage. A Spartan Love, book three, is in the initial stages. The intro, also known as Taming Theron in which our young hero discovers that food is the way to a man's heart, is being expanded before the original story line starts. My beta readers love Andreas.

QUICK FIRE ROUND – it’s pop quiz time…

13) Plotter or pantser?

Pantser

14) Secret Seven or Famous Five? (please tell me you know them!?)

The Mad Scientists' Club

15) Digital books or print books?

Both, but I can carry a lot more ebooks!

16) Tea or coffee?

Tea

17) Cats or dogs?

Cats

18) Extrovert or introvert?

Depends. I'm an extrovert at work and introvert at home.

19) Save or spend?

Primarily save, but if I really want something I will spend. You should see my book/ebook collection!

20) Facebook or Twitter?

Facebook

And that's a wrap!

Thank you so much for taking part, Kayla, and for such great answers!

If you would like to keep in touch with Kayla, you can connect with her here:

Facebook     Twitter     Blog     Goodreads

And now the important part...

Buy it now:

Breathless Press

Amazon

Amazon UK

All Romance eBooks

Bookstrand

ISBN: 978-1-77101-910-1

Released 4th January 2013

Heat Rating: 3 / Word Count: 24017

Blog Guest: Megan D. Martin and a GIVEAWAY

Happy New Year!!

I hope you all had a magical Christmas and a very happy new year.

It brings me great pleasure to kick off 2013 with a guest post, with the added bonus of a giveaway, brought to you by Megan D. Martin. And I must say, her debut novella sounds fascinating and is already reaping great reviews.

So without further ado, I shall hand over to Megan...

A common theme within Forbidden Angel is strength. Sarah Brenner, the main character, is a Jewish woman who finds herself, along with her family, placed in a concentration camp at the end of WWII. She has to be strong for her mother and sister as well as for herself. It would be easy for her to just give in and let the bad things that keep coming her way drag her down. (Cause yes, being placed in the camp is only the beginning of the bad fortune that heads her way.) But she doesn’t. There are times in everyone’s life where we feel like we’ve hit rock bottom or that we have gone through so many things that we just can’t go on—that there’s no way to dig ourselves out of the hell we’ve landed in. Sarah finds herself in this place, but she doesn’t give up. A feat that seems impossible. 

Sarah is confronted with the ultimate challenge in her life, a situation that most people cannot fathom or understand. She is trapped in a place with knowledge that she probably won’t live to see the outside world again yet she still doesn’t give up. She is woman with true honor who will do anything to save her family. Strength of this nature is not something we see every day. As a writer, Sarah has taught me a lot (yes, I know she is my own character, but it’s amazing how characters teach their writers, lol). That giving up isn’t the option and strength is the best and sometimes only way a woman can prevail when the world has her down. 

With that being said I hope you will check out Forbidden Angel and follow Sarah’s journey through the biggest challenge in her life, one where she is forced to make life altering decisions and fight for the ones she loves.

Thank you so much for that great post Megan!

Now let's find out more about the book and the lady herself...

Forbidden Angel
by Megan D. Martin

Timeless-Historical Romance

When captured by the Nazi's, Sarah finds herself in a concentration camp that not only brings her closer to death...but closer to love.

Sarah Brenner, a young Jewish woman, is terrified when she finds herself in the heat of a railcar bound for a work camp in Nazi Germany. For years she, along with her mother and sister, had hidden from the SS, but no one could hide forever. Her hatred for those who have enslaved them is ever-growing, especially when they arrive and she encounters the shockingly handsome Nazi doctor who can’t seem to keep his eyes—or hands—off her.

Aurel Rothstein is not your everyday concentration camp physician. The endless prisoners and lack of care he's allowed to give have made him numb to the work he so coveted. It isn’t until he comes face to face with a beautiful prisoner that his heart becomes involved with his job—a forbidden and fatal move to any Nazi. 

When a vile soldier takes direct interest in Sarah, she will be forced to make a choice that will change her life forever: ignore the pull toward the handsome doctor or give in to the forbidden passion he awakens with only a look. Either way they both risk everything...

Buy it now
Breathless Press    Amazon     Amazon UK     Bookstrand

Megan D. Martin was born and raised in a small Texas town, where she still resides with her delightfully rotten son. She is an English Major at Texas Woman's University where she is furthering her passion for reading and writing each day. Megan works for Breathless Press as a content editor.

In her spare time she enjoys decorating her home with strange things that do not match, playing her old school Nintendo Entertainment System, and buying fish for her many fish tanks. Forbidden Angel is her debut novella.

To learn more about Megan and her writing check her out on these social networking sites:

Blog    Facebook    Twitter
Goodreads     Google+

And now for the giveaway...

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