Experience tantalizing kisses and oh so satisfying romances with Regency rakes, earls, and spies along with Medieval knights, Edwardian ladies, Tudor witches, and Scottish lairds in this must read seven book collection. Available for preorder at these vendors: Amazon iBooks Barnes and Noble Kobo This collection will be live on or about February 26th for $2.99, so preorder for $0.99 while you can. Here's a taste of what's inside. Bree Wolf: Rules To Be Broken: A scandalous lady. A virtuous gentleman. And rules that need to be broken. After a minor faux-pas, DIANA LAWSON finds herself forced into a marriage of convenience to save her reputation. However, London society still talks, and no matter how hard Diana tries, the whispers never cease. After her well-respected husband dies in the arms of his mistress, Diana decides to live by her own rules alone. ARTHUR ABBOTT, EARL OF STANHOPE, is a stickler for propriety and has never met a rule he did not feel compelled to uphold. However, when he saves a young widow from a most inappropriate situation, he is drawn into a world quite unlike his own. Convinced that he is only lending a hand out of duty, Arthur agrees to a daring compromise. For Diana to uphold society's rules, Arthur has to break them. Can scandalous and virtuous ever walk hand in hand? ~*~*~* Tammy Burton Andresen: My Wicked Earl: Lord Rex Abelman, Earl of Casterly, has no intention of marrying. His life is that of an adventurer. But he cannot deny that Lady Daffodil is as sweet and funny as she is beautiful. Nor can help but wonder what life might be like if he were a better man. Rex is a rake and a rogue who has sworn off marriage. He is the last man Daffodil should give her attention. So why do her eyes drift to him at every opportunity? ~*~*~ Dawn Brower: Surrendering to My Spy A rogue, a marquess and a spy... Each an integral part of Dominic Rossington's life and he does them all rather well. Love throws him off balance and he'll do everything in his power to protect the one who holds his heart, Lady Rosanna. Danger lurks on the horizon and he'll have to put it all on the line to save her. ~*~*~ Amanda Mariee: One Enchanting Kiss Handsome-as-sin Thomas Astley is more than a little intrigued by the vibrant, saucy woman who saved his life. He knows she is more than she seems, and vows to discover all of Moire’s secrets. A move that unbeknownst to him threatens her future and all she holds dear…including her heart. ~*~*~ Aubrey Wynne, Author: Genre: Medieval 12th century Rolf's Quest A wizard, a curse, a fated love… When Rolf finally discovers the woman who can end the curse that has plagued his family for centuries, she is already betrothed. Time is running out for the royal wizard of King Henry II. If he cannot find true love without the use of sorcery, the magic will die for future generations. Melissa is intrigued by the mystical, handsome man that haunts her by night and tempts her by day. His bizarre tale of Merlin, enchantments, and finding genuine love has her questioning his sanity and her heart. From the moment Melissa stepped from his dreams and into his arms, Rolf knew she was his destiny. Now, he will battle against time, a powerful duke, and call on the gods to save her. ~*~*~ Katherine Bone: Regency: My Lady Rogue Everything Lord Danbury and Baroness Chauncey have done for Nelson’s Tea has led to this moment… Gillian, Baroness Chauncey has only been an English spy for Nelson’s Tea for four years, but she truly thought she had seen it all. Yet as war continues off England’s shores, from the sea to the continent, and victory is won at great cost, a devastating betrayal threatens the men she has come to know and love. And her love for one man in particular is tested when she makes a life-or-death decision that could destroy everything she holds dear. As members of Nelson’s Tea, Admiral Horatio Nelson’s mercenaries have never questioned Lord Simon Danbury’s authority—until now. Death’s darkening veil is descending over London, and as a new hierarchy within the group begins to rise, a hostile mole prepares to strike. Surrounded by the greatest spies in England, can Simon unify the clandestine group without losing the baroness? Or will she be the price they have to pay for peace? ~*~*~ Keriann McKenna: Genre: Edwardian set in 1912: On Loving a Woman: Do No Harm. Professor Ian MacDermot is pleased when a beautiful young woman is turned over to him for individual instruction. His task—to teach her to be a dutiful wife. The fiercely independent-thinking Sarah MacDonald is having none of it. Haunted by a dark experience from her past, she vowed never to marry and become a 'sex slave' to any man, but Ian MacDermot is not just any man. When Ian reads the Dean’s instructions, detailing what he is to do to train her, he finds it unconscionable. With the help of Sarah's father who is a barrister, Ian and Sarah embark on an impossible mission to bring the Dean to justice. They know they may not succeed but time will tell...and timing is everything. While On Loving a Woman in the fourth book in a series, it is a standalone novel. There are 3-4 pages where abuse of young women is spoken about. If this will upset you, please skip over those pages. NOTE: These are not erotic novels.
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I'm so excited to be attending Sweet Virginia Breeze in Richmond! This will be my first book signing event ever, so if you're going to be in the area this weekend please come. There will be more than 60 authors present, great door prizes, plenty of books for sale and fun activities to choose from. Check it out and hope to see you there!
Hugs, Stevie They’d been married for almost ten years, some of them good. The rest were…well, they just were. She’d stopped craving his touch during his last deployment. Something inside just sort of shut down or froze, she wasn’t sure which. After ten years, their marriage was fraying around the edges. When she married him, Tara knew full well he intended to be a career Marine and Cameron had the strength and determination to achieve anything he set out to do. What she hadn't expected was the loneliness and depression that dragged her under when her husband was deployed for eighteen months. Her life fell apart and his return was nothing like what she'd anticipated either. Something was missing; an intricate part of their marriage seemed lost forever. Cam couldn't believe how Tara had changed. His once loving and self-sacrificing wife was now selfish and lazy. The house was neglected and if it wasn't for Tara's mother the children would have been too. For a while he simply accepted it and carried on, fulfilling his duty during the day and taking care of everything else at night and on the weekends. Finally, he realized any change had to come from him. Surely a Sergeant with dozens of men under his command could straighten out one small woman who'd once promised to love, honor and obey. Publisher’s Note: This contemporary, steamy romance is intended for adults only. It contains elements of sensual scenes, domestic discipline and power exchange. If any of these offend you, please do not purchase. Excerpt: Cameron pulled her arms apart and took her hands, turning them up and kissing each palm in turn but not releasing her. “If you think a few kisses are going to solve our problems, you’d better think again,” she sneered. “No, it’s not kisses that are going to work this time but I do have a solution,” he answered smoothly as he tugged her closer. “I’m going to spank you.” “Excuse me?” He watched the shock on her face as her blue eyes widened. A flush crept up her neck to her cheeks and she tried to pull away. It was ridiculously easy to control her and he guided her over his knees and wrapped one arm around her waist holding her in place. “I said I’m going to spank you. In fact, I believe there will be quite a few spankings in your future,” he informed her as he lifted her skirt and hooked a finger in the top of her panties pulling them down to her knees.” “You can’t be serious,” she yelled. “You haven’t spanked me in years. Not since we were first married.” “Apparently that’s an oversight on my part, baby. One I intend to correct. I learned early on how stubborn and sassy you could be and if I recall smacking your bottom worked pretty well back in the day. I should have been smart enough to put two and two together. I should have realized you needed me to step up and take a firm stand with you. I’m sorry about that.” “You’re going to be sorry if you lay one hand on me,” she screamed, glaring at him over her shoulder and beginning to kick her feet. He trapped her legs under his. She was going nowhere. “No, my only regret will be that we lost our way in the first place. I’m sorry I didn’t hold you accountable when you first started slipping. I let my disappointment and anger get in the way when I should have been dealing with the issues instead of trying to ignore them. I almost let it destroy us.” “Seems to me you’re trying to destroy us now,” she insisted, still wiggling even though she had no chance of escaping his hold. His hand cupped her bottom lovingly and he shook his head. He’d been a fool. This weekend would either make or break their marriage. “Let me ask you something before I get started. Do you still love me, Tara?” “Of course I love you, you moron,” she cried. “Would I be here if I didn’t?” “Then we have a chance,” he sighed in relief, patting her gently. “You have a chance of seeing God if you don’t stop this nonsense and let me up right now!” Cameron laughed, full out. “I’m pretty sure I won’t see God this weekend, but I’m hoping for a small slice of heaven, or a few trips to paradise.” “What the hell are you talking about?” “Here’s my plan,” he said, stroking her cheeks. “I’m going to spank you long and hard. It’s going to remind you why you were a little bit afraid of me. Knowing additional ones are coming if you don’t behave I figure you’ll also be quite eager to please me. I can’t wait for that part.” “Dream on,” Tara snorted. Cam ignored her. “Once your sweet bottom is red and hot I’ll continue smacking it until I believe you’re suitably contrite. When I’m convinced your tears of remorse are genuine I will comfort you and reassure you of my love.” “Yeah, right,” she hissed in derision. Cam smacked her bottom, hard. “Then, once you’ve calmed down I’m going to strip off the rest of your clothes and put you in that pretty little sheer apron you used to wear and…” “I don’t even know where that is!” “I do. As I was saying, I plan to enjoy the sight of your lovely breasts and well-tended bottom as you move around the kitchen making our dinner. Plus it will give me no hindrances to smacking you simply because I have neglected that part of your anatomy for years and I can.” “You’re insane.” “During dinner and later we will talk about where our marriage derailed and how to get it back on track. I have numerous ideas, but I’m interested in what you have to say as well.” “I say get me a ticket to Reno,” she shot back. Cam slapped her bottom crisply and smiled when she squealed. Hope you enjoyed this little glimpse into Submitting to the Sergeant. The buy links are below as well as links to other places you can find me on the web. Gee, it's cool here in the Northeast this morning. Seems summer is slipping away. I hope many of you will join me October 5-7th at the Rom.Com Sweet Virginia Breeze conference in Richmond, Virginia. I'd love to meet you in person! Hugs, Stevie Buy Links: Amazon Blushing Books Fine Me On: My Amazon Author Page Twittter
Eleven years later, she has reinvented herself as the aloof finance director, Desirae Harper, but the past threatens to catch up with her and turn her quiet, reserved world upside down when her company is threatened with a takeover bid and the dominant Joel Blackwood walks back into her life. Can she resist him or will the old Daisy return, threatening her new, quiet life? Publisher's Note: This steamy romance contains graphic scenes as well as power exchange. Please do not read it if this is offensive to you. Publisher's Note: This steamy romance contains graphic scenes as well as power exchange. Please do not read it if this is offensive to you. Blurb: Like an elastic band being wound tighter and tighter, Desi's cravings grew greater, her carnal hunger more extreme, and she longed for the cataclysmic detonation that she knew was so close. Joel took her right to the edge as she knew he would, then just as she reached the crescendo, just as she was about to snap, the flogging ceased. She wanted to scream at the denial; she wanted to beg for the release. It took her entire force of will to keep silent. Joel's arm came around her waist, his skin cool against her heated flesh. As if from a distance, she heard the chain clink as he released her bonds. The cuffs remained around her wrists, and he kept the spreader bar in place as he positioned her on her knees, then pushed her shoulders and face into a plump cushion. He positioned her so that her cheek rested on the soft material, her head adjusted to face the crowd. It didn't matter, she was oblivious to them all, her eyes unfocused and distracted. Just as he had demanded, she remained still and silent as he attached each individual wrist cuff to a ring at each end of the bar near her ankles, forcing her backside high and putting everything on display. Moisture trickled down her leg and Joel tracked it with his tongue, tracing it back to its source but denying her any further indulgence from his mouth. A light shiver rippled her skin, replaced by the sting of his punishment as he started to spank her hard and fast. There was no warm up here, just a rain of merciless slapping that set fire to her butt. She could hear Joel grunt with the sheer exertion, but her endorphin coated brain interpreted every blow as pure bliss. God, she loved the feel of his hand. More often, Joel used a crop or a paddle, but his bare palm on her backside was so much more intimate, and she gloried in that touch like a brat who misbehaves, just to get attention. Fool's Desire will be available 8/10/18. Just click the cover to buy on Amazon and enjoy the ride! About the author:
Poppy Flynn was born in Buckinghamshire, UK and moved to Wales at eight years old with parents who wanted to live the 'self-sufficiency' lifestyle. Today she still lives in rural Wales and is married with six children. Poppy's love of reading and writing stemmed from her parents’ encouragement and the fact that they didn't have a television in the house. "When you're surrounded by fields, cows and sheep, no neighbours, no TV and the closest tiny village is four miles away, there's a certain limit to your options, but with books your adventures and your horizons are endless." Poppy Visit her website here: www.poppyflynnsaucyauthor.com Follow her on: https://poppyflynnbooks.blogspot.com/ https://www.facebook.com/poppy.flynn.355 https://www.instagram.com/poppyflynnbooks/ https://twitter.com/PoppyFlynn1 The sound of water running woke him instantly and his eyes scanned the room. The walls were thin, he noted. He even heard her soft sigh of pleasure when she stepped under the spray. In minutes he was up, naked and stepping into the shower with her, handing her the small bottle of body wash she preferred. “Here, don’t use that stuff,” he scolded. “I love how you smell and Lord only knows what’s in the crap they supply.” “Thanks. Did you sleep well?” she inquired, facing the spray while he stepped closer and rubbed her shoulders. She placed the small motel sample back on the shower shelf. “Well enough.” His big hands gently moved her hair. He lowered his lips to her shoulder. “Mmm,” Joy murmured, angling her neck to give him better access. Slowly his hands crept around her waist and reached up, cupping her breasts. Pouring some soap in her hand she reached behind her and cupped his sack, massaging gently and feeling him grow hard against her. Jay’s lips nipped her neck and moved higher as she pressed her bottom back. “What are you hiding from me, baby?” he whispered before his tongue traced her shell like ear. Joy stiffened, instantly knowing it had been a mistake. Pouring more soap onto her chest she took his hands and moved them, making them slide over her slippery skin. One stayed at her breast, the other she pushed lower until his long fingers slipped between her legs. For a few moments he gave her what she wanted, rubbing her slit as she squirmed against his cock. Little whimpers escaped her lips. Finally she turned in his arms and pressed fully against him, moving her body side to side. She smiled up at him. “I’m not hiding anything, Jay,” she assured him sweetly. “I give you everything I have, everything I am,” she purred seductively. He bent his head, took her lips and nearly laughed into her mouth. “My, you are a naughty little lady, lying to me as if you thought you could get away with it. It might have been fun playing your daddy for a while, giving you a good licking every time you misbehaved. Perhaps I should have given that assignment more consideration,” he breathed against her mouth. Her knees weakened and she sagged for a moment in his arms before he tightened his grasp, one hand holding the cheek of her ass securely. “Now, do you want to tell me the truth?” he asked, staring down into her startled eyes. “Yes,” she replied breathlessly. “I was going to tell you as soon as we got here, but I fell asleep.” “We’re wide awake now,” he pointed out, prodding at her bottom hole as she squirmed. “I know, and I will tell you, but please can’t it wait?” she pleaded as his fingertip eased into her bottom. “I need…” “I know what you need,” he growled. “Get on your hands and knees,” he ordered, turning her away from him so she was facing the back of the shower. *** When Joy accidentally comes across the man of her dreams, she snaps him up pretty quickly. He’s exactly like the heroes in the erotic novels she adores: loving, forceful and mature. The situation she’s gotten herself into turns deadly and J.R. Everly is just the sort of man a woman needs at such times.
Although Joy is a Forensic Accountant she convinces herself she can be happy on Jay’s Ranch, but soon the lure of adventure rears its head. After all, they already survived one dangerous assignment. Why shouldn’t they take on another, this time as a team? Jay is completely against Joy’s further involvement in the agency. She’s young, inquisitive and has no idea what she’s getting into. He puts his foot down, hard, or rather, his hand, but it’s too late. The damage has been done thanks to his underhanded and manipulative boss. Now they’re in trouble up to their necks. Her man wanted to retire. Does he have another rescue in him and if so, what’s it going to cost her? A small portion of this book was previously released in the Hero Undercover box set. It has been completely rewritten and expanded into a full-length novel. Publisher’s Note: This contemporary, steamy romance is intended for adults only. Along with romance, it contains elements of mystery, suspense, action, and adventure. It also contains an event that may cause distress to some readers. If any of these offend you, please do not purchase. Assignment: Trouble is available for preorder at a discounted price of $2.99 on Amazon until the official release date of 7/20/2018. At that time it will return to the original price of $4.99. Happy Reading! When Joy accidentally comes across the man of her dreams, she snaps him up pretty quickly. He’s exactly like the heroes in the erotic novels she adores: loving, forceful and mature. The situation she’s gotten herself into turns deadly and J.R. Everly is just the sort of man a woman needs at such times. Although Joy is a Forensic Accountant she convinces herself she can be happy on Jay’s Ranch, but soon the lure of adventure rears its head. After all, they already survived one dangerous assignment. Why shouldn’t they take on another, this time as a team? Jay is completely against Joy’s further involvement in the agency. She’s young, inquisitive and has no idea what she’s getting into. He puts his foot down, hard, or rather, his hand, but it’s too late. The damage has been done thanks to his underhanded and manipulative boss. Now they’re in trouble up to their necks. Her man wanted to retire. Does he have another rescue in him and if so, what’s it going to cost her? A small portion of this book was previously released in the Hero Undercover box set. It has been completely rewritten and expanded into a full-length novel. Publisher’s Note: This contemporary, steamy romance is intended for adults only. Along with romance, it contains elements of mystery, suspense, action, and adventure. It also contains an event that may cause distress to some readers. If any of these offend you, please do not purchase. Excerpt: “Sorry, but we’re going to pass on this one,” he said. “In fact, I don’t believe we’ll be taking any assignments in the future.” “What’s Joy got to say about this?” Chet asked silkily. “Joy’s in agreement and even if she wasn’t she’s my wife and she’ll do as I say.” “Boy, I can tell you haven’t been married long,” Chet replied with a laugh. “Are you sure you won’t reconsider? I still think you two are perfect for this one and there’s very little risk.” Jay laughed. “Nice try and she might buy that, but I know better. There’s always risk and usually more than expected. No, as I said, we’re going to pass, and Chet, lose Joy’s number.” Chet leaned back in his leather seat on the private jet that was taking them to Washington, slipping his phone into his pocket. “What did he say?” Eyeing the two men with him he thought before he spoke. “Jay doesn’t want to take the case. Says he has too much work on the ranch, but Joy might still be interested.” “Really, I’m surprised he’d even consider letting her go on her own. The man’s crazy about her and obviously the dominant one in their relationship. I don’t believe for a second he was playing when he told her he was going to spank her,” he continued with a short laugh. “Maybe so, but Joy has a mind of her own. I’ll give it a few days and contact her on the down-low. If she signs on it will be like getting two for the price of one.” “How so?” “He’ll follow her, of course.” “Better be careful, Chet. Jay’s not one to take kindly to your interference.” “I’ll worry about that when the time comes.” The third man remained quiet. He listened and made a firm resolution to keep Chet away from his own wife. Assignment: Trouble will be released on July 20, 2018 for $4.99. It will be available for pre-order from 7/16 - 7/19/18 at a sale price of $2.99. Happy Reading and keep the ice handy. Hugs, Stevie Hi, all. Today I'm featuring a new book by Juliette Banks, Remembering Roxy. The excerpt is way hot! So if it appeals to you as it does to me, simply click the cover or one the buy links at the bottom. Happy Reading! Roxy is a modern, independent, kick-ass woman, who hides a secret desire—she likes a bit of spice in the bedroom. Will she ever meet a man who can satisfy her desires, without expecting her full submission? Oliver is a man who loves some kink in his life, but doesn’t want to be tied down by a possessive woman. He also has a secret life that doesn’t bode well for a long-term relationship. When they meet the attraction between them is immediate and electrifying. They are both amazed by their chemistry. But Oliver’s secret life takes an unexpected turn and threatens their relationship as well as his life. Can they find each other again? Or will their relationship be doomed to failure? Publisher’s Note: This adult romance contains elements of danger, action, adventure, power exchange and sensual scenes. If any of these offend you, please do not purchase. Excerpt I heard nothing more from Oliver for two days. Then on Wednesday, at a few minutes before mid-day, I had another text. Oliver: I have an urgent need to fuck. Are you available in about five minutes or so? Me: You have such a wonderful way of asking, Oliver. As it happens, my lunch hour begins in five minutes, and your suggestion sounds rather inviting. What did you have in mind? Oliver: Take your knickers off right now, at your desk. Shove them in a drawer. I’m assuming you’re wearing a dress and not trousers. Me: What, right here, in the middle of an open-plan office? Oliver: You do have cubicles though, don’t you? Me: Yes, but they’re not very high. Anyone standing up will see what I’m doing. Oliver: No excuses. You have thirty seconds to remove them. Then I want you to take the lift to my floor. I’ll meet you at the lift door. I’ll give you three minutes. Don’t keep me waiting or it will be the worse for you. Me: On my way. I shivered with anticipation about what he was planning. Glancing to the right and left, no one was yet standing to leave for lunch. I fumbled around under my skirt and whipped off my knickers, shoving them quickly in my desk drawer, out of sight. I picked up my handbag and stood up, ready to leave for lunch. As I went up in the lift I wondered if perhaps I was being just a little too eager to please. Should I play harder to get? I’d never been good at the rules of dating. My mother had always told me when I was young to keep men guessing and not seem to keen. Her favourite mantra was “Treat them mean and keep them keen,” but I was never good at delayed gratification. If it was offered, grab it with both hands, was more like me. Oh well, too late now. Eventually I arrived at the twenty-fifth floor. The doors opened and there he stood, looking gorgeous. He wore what appeared to be a made-to-measure navy pinstripe three-piece suit, with a white shirt and pale pink tie. He had one arm crossing his middle, with the other one resting on it, and his hand on his chin, looking thoughtful. Then he looked up, towards the clock above the lift. The inference was clear. But then I absolutely expected him to find an excuse to smack my arse anyway, so it really didn’t matter whether I was on time or late. “So, Miss Legal from the 11th, you didn’t exactly rush to get here. I detect a little stubbornness in your character. Or do you want me to tan your hide again?” Being unsure whether anyone was within hearing distance, I simply gave him an enigmatic smile. “Okay, walk ahead of me down the corridor to the last room on the right. The door is unlocked. Go in and bend over the table, skirt raised. I’ll be right in after you.” I responded immediately, putting on a little show by swaying my bottom as I walked along the corridor in my tight skirt and heels. I felt like the actress in that BDSM film about a secretary. I hoped I was winding Oliver’s spring, ready for it to recoil shortly. The door was open as he said. It was a meeting room, with huge glass windows looking out over the City below. There were a couple of high buildings not too far away, but far enough for them to need a telescope to see what we were doing. Not that this would have made any difference to Oliver I was sure. I walked straight to the table, hitched up my skirt and bent over it, feeling so wild and wanton as I did so. This man made me want to do such filthy things. There was a short pause, when I wondered what I would do if the next person to enter the room wasn’t Oliver. The door opened, but I couldn’t hear footsteps because of the thick carpeting. Then I froze as he began to talk. “And this room, sir, is our new meeting room. Oh, I see we have a visitor.” I shot up so fast, trying to pull down my skirt, only to realise Oliver was alone. “Oh fuck, don’t do that. You made my heart stop for a moment.” He walked over to me and pressed me down on to the table again. “Sorry, I couldn’t resist it. Now pull your skirt up again.” I reached down and slid it up over my hips to my waist. Oliver ran the palm of his hand over my bottom. “Mmm, I’m glad you’re wearing stockings and not tights. Much sexier.” I didn’t tell him I normally wore tights, but had suddenly taken to wearing stay-up stockings for some unfathomable reason. Oliver backed away a couple of feet. I could almost feel the heat from his eyes as they scanned every inch of my backside and legs. I felt a physical ache in my pussy, and a desperate need to feel him inside me. But first I wanted him to spank me. He didn’t disappoint me. “So, Miss Legal, it took you two minutes too long to travel from your desk to here—which alone is a serious infringement. Then there is the matter of you not doing as instructed, by standing up just now. Before I fuck you I need to let you know of my displeasure by thrashing your backside. Do you have anything to say to me?” “I’m sorry, Sir. It won’t happen again. I deserve my punishment. Please spank my bottom.” About Me: Juliette Banks is the other writing name of Rachel de Vine. I love writing erotic romance, where my characters have lots of exciting erotic moments, but still believe in love and romance—because I am a romantic myself. When I’m not writing, I love to travel, read and enjoy my beautiful garden at home in the heart of England. I love to hear from my readers, so feel free to contact me on my links below. Buy Links Amazon Blushing Books How to find Juliette Banks Website: www.racheldevineauthor.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juliettebanksauthor/ Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Juliette-Banks/e/B01K0EIMNW One day in the middle of winter I was driving down the road with my daughter. The weather was rough as it often is here in Upstate New York and we were talking about the release of Kiss Me, O'Malley. I'm sure I was rambling on and on about the book as I love that family and she was asking questions. "Mom, where do you get your ideas for a new story?" she asked me. I was slowing down on the slippery road, getting ready to turn onto a side road. All of a sudden this little wreck of a car failed to make a complete stop and nearly slammed into a new pick-up truck as we watched. "There," I said pointing at the scene. "That's enough for a story. I could write a book about that. Inspiration is everywhere, on the road, in a store, even listening to bits of conversation in a crowded restaurant." She shook her head and laughed, but I was already plotting out Just Her Luck in my mind. I love it when that happens! Here's an excerpt:
It took quite a while after two New York State Troopers got to the scene. Licenses and insurance information was exchanged and a tow truck was called to remove Babe’s vehicle. It was so old and damaged even the cops had trouble figuring out the make and year until she produced the registration after they pried the glove compartment open. Chas knew both of them and stood out in the storm asking after their families and making small talk, while Babe took her handful of tickets and retrieved her backpack. She started down the road. He caught sight of her just before she disappeared in a swirl of snow. “Gotta go, guys,” he said, getting into his slightly damaged truck. “She’s trouble with a capital T but I can’t just leave her out here like this.” “Need any help?” “No, I’ve got this. I’ll take her home with me until I get her straightened out. Thanks,” he called as he got in his truck and headed in the direction she’d walked off. When he found her she was a little way up the road, knees deep in a snow bank. He opened the passenger window and called to her. “Come on, I’ll take you anywhere you want to go,” he yelled above the wind. “I can’t,” she called back. “Why not?” he demanded getting more peeved by the second. “I’m stuck, and I think I hurt my ankle jumping down from your truck,” she screamed. He could see she’d been crying and she wiped her nose on her sleeve. Chas pulled over as far as the snowbanks allowed and turned his emergency flashers on. Getting out of the truck he stomped to her, took hold of her arm and pulled her from the snow, tossing her over his shoulder. “You could have waited, you know,” he scolded. “What for, you don’t owe me anything,” she replied. “Funny, I feel like I owe you a good old fashioned whooping for being so foolish,” he growled softly as he plopped her onto the seat of his truck. “Funny, I don’t believe I want to go with you,” she sassed back. “What are your options?” he asked, facing her in the open doorway and blocking her exit. “None,” she admitted, looking at her lap and blowing on her frozen hands. “Then be a good girl and shut up,” he advised, closing her door after clicking the lock. “How do I know you’re not one of those guys you talked about? The ones who would rape and murder me and toss me in a garbage can?” she demanded when he climbed in and put the truck in gear. “You don’t,” he replied with a grin. “However, I promise to feed you first, and get you into some warm clothes.” “Gee thanks,” she sneered. “You’re welcome. Would you rather go to a shelter? It won’t be nearly as nice as my place but you’ll be safe. Also, in case you haven’t noticed, I’m a relatively attractive man with all of my teeth intact. As a rule I don’t have to resort to rape to get a woman into my bed,” he teased. “And so modest too,” she shot back. “I guess the devil I know is better than the one I don’t.” “Do you feel you know me?” he asked surprised. “A little, at least you didn’t abandon me, which is more than I can say about some men. And I am sorry about your truck. It was entirely my fault. I saw you, but I couldn’t stop on these roads.” “My, she can tell the truth too. A point in your favor. Maybe it won’t have to be a full-fledged whooping. Maybe it can just be a few good swats to your butt to teach you not to put yourself at risk.” “You are kidding, right?” Babe asked, biting her lip. Chas grinned and turned the truck around. Buy Links: Amazon Blushing Books Hope it makes you smile. Hugs, Stevie Babe: What the hell! Can things get any worse? Sometimes I think my bad luck started when my mother died giving me life. I know it’s going to follow me forever. I never should have believed all the lies that jerk told me, never driven all the way from Florida to meet a guy I met on the internet. Now, I’ve made things even worse. That huge man getting out of his truck doesn’t look too happy. Chas: I can’t believe that little rust bucket just smashed into my brand new Dodge Ram. Why don’t people learn how to drive on snow and ice if they’re going to live in this neck of the woods? I’m going to give that driver hell if I can get her damn door open and she’s not hurt. Wait! Did she actually take a swing at me? Apparently the half-pint has a temper. Too bad she doesn’t have any sense. Publisher’s Note: This adult romance contains elements of adult language, humor, power exchange and sensual scenes. If any of these offend you, please do not purchase. Excerpt:
Charles ‘Chas’ Mackenzie was mad as hell when the tiny little rust bucket T-boned his brand new Ram 2500. Shaking his head he got out of his vehicle to inspect the damage and make sure the other driver was all right. “What the hell were you thinking?” he demanded when she cranked down her window. “Me? You came out of nowhere,” the woman snapped back, fighting to get her crumpled door open. Sighing he went to the door and grabbed hold, not surprised when the entire thing came away in his hand. “How did you ever manage to get this piece of crap inspected?” he asked, frowning as he dropped the door on the ground and reached for her hand to help her out. She ignored it and scrambled out on her own. Then she did the strangest thing. She took a swing at him. Her fist connected with his abdomen and she squealed, shaking her hand violently and nearly hopping up and down. Chas couldn’t help it, he laughed, making her even madder. Suddenly, both of her fists were flying and he planted his huge hand on her head, easily stopping her from connecting again. He was 6’5 and she was 5’ nothing. It was not difficult. “Hey, hey, hey, take it easy, crash.” “You think this is funny?” she screamed, swinging again and again until she tuckered herself out and stood gasping for air, her shoulders heaving. “Of course I don’t think it’s funny. You just dented my new truck,” he replied, amused despite himself. “Yes, you do,” she accused. “I can see the smile in your eyes, you big jerk. Well, not everyone can afford to drive a monster like that,” she insisted, pointing at his huge red vehicle. “Some of us drive what we have to.” “What was that, before it became fodder for the junk yard?” he asked, removing his hand now that she’d seemed to settle down and pointing at the pile of scrap she called a car. “I’ll have you know that vehicle was a classic,” she snapped, shivering in the biting winter wind. “Not everything older than dirt is a classic,” he retorted. For the first time he took in her appearance, really took it in. She was small, wearing a pair of those ratty jeans that were all the rage with young girls, but for some reason he didn’t think that particular pair came from some designer store and she wasn’t a teenager. Her sneakers were beat up, with a hole at the toe of her left shoe and her jacket didn’t look warm in the least. “Why don’t you get in my truck and warm up,” he suggested. “I imagine it will take quite a while for law enforcement to get here on these roads. No sense in freezing our asses off.” “Do we have to call the police?” she asked nervously. “Yes, we do,” he insisted, taking her arm and leading her toward his truck. “For one thing it’s against the law to leave the scene of an accident and for another I’m going to turn this into my insurance company.” “Oh,” she said, looking up at the seat when he opened his door. Twice she tried to get her foot on the icy running board and twice she slipped off. She squealed when he picked her up and sat her inside the truck’s cab. “Watch your hands,” he ordered before shutting the door with a solid thud. Chas stood in the bitter wind and called 9-1-1 on his cell, reporting the accident before climbing into the driver’s seat and cranking up the heat. Thankful for his heavy Carhart jacket he noted the thin windbreaker she was wearing. Taking his thermos he poured a cup of coffee and handed it to her, watching as she wrapped her hands around it gratefully. “Is there a reason you didn’t want me to report it?” he asked, watching her face flush. “Yeah, I don’t exactly have insurance,” she admitted quietly. “At least I don’t think so. They sent me a cancellation notice a while ago and I couldn’t pay the premium, but sometimes there’s a grace period,” she added hopefully. “Maybe they’ll cover the damage.” “Why am I not surprised?” he sighed somewhat disgustedly. “Well you don’t have to get nasty about it,” she snapped, glaring at him. Handing him the cup she moved to open the door. “It’s not like I’m some vagrant, deadbeat,” she hissed. “I do pay my bills when I have the money.” “And do you have any money?” he asked. “Not at the moment. I mean I have about twenty bucks, but that’s it. But I will have money as soon as I find a new job and a place to stay,” she continued with her chin up. “I believe I’ll wait outside. It’s pretty chilly in here, Mr.…?” “Mackenzie, Chas Mackenzie and I wouldn’t advise that,” he stated calmly. “And why not?” she demanded, narrowing her violet eyes at him. “Because the roads are slippery as goose shit and in case you haven’t noticed our vehicles are blocking a good part of this one. Another vehicle could come around that curve and plow straight into us. You’re safer in here.” She appeared to sniff in derision as she reached for the door handle. “What’s your name?” he demanded. “Roberta, but my friends call me Babe,” she replied reluctantly. “Hmm, it fits you,” he noted. “Let me put it another way, Babe. Do you see this console?” he asked patting the piece separating them with his huge hand. “Yes,” she replied, sounding confused. “Well it flips up, giving me plenty of room to pull your obstinate self over my lap and spank you good. I’m sure your backside is pretty cold. Believe me, it will sting like hell. Is that really what you want?” “Are you threatening me?” she gasped. “Nope, just stating a fact. I’m not particularly fond of young women who are a little too big for their britches and while this accident was entirely your fault, I won’t sit by and watch you get frostbite or become road kill. Now, sit still and wait for the law to arrive.” Chas placed the coffee back in her hands and said no more. *** Babe looked at him sideways as she sipped from the mug. He was a behemoth, and in hindsight she couldn’t believe she’d had the nerve to swing at him. His full dark beard was neatly trimmed and he was warmly dressed in jeans, a flannel shirt and brown lace-up work boots. Thick leather gloves lay on the dash, no doubt the best money could buy. His jacket looked exceedingly warm and she made a note that in the future, if she was going to trapes around this neck of the woods she would need something like that. Although, what she was going to trapes around in she had no idea. Her car was trash. She’d be lucky to get a dime from a junkyard and the twenty in her pocket wouldn’t go far. He surprised her when he spoke. “Do you have family in the area?” he asked, staring out the windshield obviously watching for red lights. “No.” “So what are you doing here?” “It’s a long story,” she sighed. “I’m pretty sure we have time,” he replied, watching the snow pile up and speeding up his wipers. “I met this guy on the internet,” she began. Chas snorted and removed his hat, running his hand through a head of wavy dark hair. “There’s no need to be so judgmental,” she said, glaring into his blue eyes. “Many relationships start online and they end up getting married.” “Yeah, and many end up with the woman raped, murdered and stuffed in some garbage can,” he retorted. “What were you thinking?” he demanded angrily. “Where are you from anyway?” “I drove up from Florida,” she answered defensively. “In that thing?” he asked in outrage. “It’s a wonder you made it to Georgia.” “For your information, Bessie, has been a very good car,” she snapped back, “and besides it’s not her fault the guy turned out to be a big fat liar and a jerk.” “Is he from around here? What’s his name?” Chas demanded. “Roger Thomson,” she quietly confessed. “That guy’s a dirtbag,” Chas said with a touch of fury in his voice. “You’re lucky you got out of there with your virtue intact. It is intact?” he questioned, pinning her in place with his frosty stare. “I’m not stupid, you know,” she hissed, feeling her face heat up. “I realized almost as soon as I got there he’d been less than honest with me about his circumstances. He was far older than his profile picture indicated and he has no job. His place was in shambles and he seemed to think I should clean it up. In fact, he wanted me to marry him and…” “Look after his lazy, good-for-nothing ass for the rest of your life, right?” “Something like that,” she sighed in embarrassment. “Did he hurt you, Babe?” he asked softly. “No, just my pride. I can’t believe I was so stupid. I took him at face value; well it wasn’t actually his face he sent me. I don’t know whose face it was.” “How old are you?” “Twenty-two, old enough to know better,” she admitted. “I was just so lonely, and the bastard lied through his rotten teeth.” “Don’t you have a family, a daddy, a brother, anyone to look out for you?” “I’m a grown woman,” she insisted, staring up at him. “Almost,” Chas replied with a laugh as he reached over and tugged at her very long dark braid playfully. Babe slapped his hand away and he laughed harder. Then the police arrived. Author's Note: This book should be available around May 11, 2018. It's one of the rare books I write that is not part of a series, at least not yet. Although... Crunch is an interesting character. Hmm. I hope you enjoy it! Stevie When Irelynn O’Malley returned to the country of her birth, she only wanted to be left alone to cry and sort out her life. She did not want a bossy young police officer dogging her every step, spouting off his opinions about nearly everything she did. She did not want her cousin Rory hounding her to leave the shelter and go and stay with his mother. And she especially didn’t want her cousin Colleen, the one she’d been closest to as a child, to pry into her reasons for leaving Ireland. Even if Colleen was willing to spill her guts about how she’d managed to catch such a handsome husband, that didn’t mean Irelynn was going to relax her guard. Oh, her story twas interesting to be sure, but Irelynn’s secrets were much too painful to talk about over Irish coffee and wine. Author’s Note: While Princess Hooligan is a brand new story in The O’Malley Series it also contains something I’ve been asked for many times, Colleen and Noah’s story. Going back in time is never easy, especially with a family like The O’Malleys, where there are so many characters. When Colleen met Noah, Maggie was still married to her first husband Jim. Nick was a painful memory and only Jason was born. Patrick and Molly were married with their first son, Michael. Rory was still wickedly single and Bridget was a precocious adolescent. While the entire family is present in the majority of the book, please remember there was a time before Abby and Connor, Winston and a slew of grandchildren. Excerpt: Detective Rory O’Malley leaned back in his chair and planted his size fifteen shoes on his desk as he waited for his mother to answer the phone. Ian wasn’t thrilled to report he’d lost Rory’s little cousin and Rory even less so to hear it. “I’m sorry, Rory, but she’s tricky and a liar to boot,” Ian snapped. “She promised me she’d wait right there while I got us both coffee and of course, she didn’t.” Rory snorted and shook his head. “She dresses like a bag lady, climbs into filthy dumpsters to retrieve bottles worth a damn nickel, has prostitutes for friends. And she gives them money! God forbid, she buys a decent pair of sneakers. Hers are so worn out I don’t know how she stays upright when the streets are slick. I think she has duct tape on the one.” Running a hand through his hair he moved to the window. “I know you think I’m up for this job, but I’m not,” Ian insisted. “Get someone else to do it before I do something we’ll all regret.” “Are you threatening my cousin?” Rory asked with a fierce scowl as he covered the phone with his hand. “Have you hurt her?” “Not yet, but I’m getting uncomfortably close to teaching her a thing or two over my lap. You have no idea how badly I want to spank her and drag her to your mother’s,” Ian groaned, his face red with fury. “I’ve never met such an irresponsible woman in my entire life. She hasn’t a care for her own safety and lies with a straight face like she’s saying a blessing!” For a moment Rory felt a pang of sympathy and almost told Ian about his own experience with his wife, Tess. She’d been much the same when he discovered her sleeping in the park. Rory held up his finger and spoke. “Ma, we need a family meeting. See what you can do to arrange it and get back to me, will you? Yes, it’s about Irelynn. I know, Ma, but… what? No, Ian is doing the best he can. Yes, I remember she’s your niece and you love her,” he sighed, glaring again at Ian as though the entire thing was his fault. “We’ll get this straightened out. Yes, I promise, Ma. Call me as soon as you get it set. Yes, I’ll bring Ian, so you can talk to him. Okay, apple cobbler, I’ll tell him. Look, I gotta go. Love you too, Ma.” “Do you see what I’m going through?” he demanded, dropping his feet to the floor. “My mother is not going to give me a minute’s peace until I do something about Irelynn and when I get home, Tess starts. Here I was, thinking all my sisters were settled in good marriages with men who would look out for them and then this imp from the old country shows up,” he sighed. “I haven’t seen her since she was little, cute as a button and full of spirit. Now she’s here doing God knows what and with whom, and you, Sullivan, can’t keep track of one small woman. How are you ever going to make detective at this rate?” “Now, that’s just not right, Rory. You know my hands are tied on this one. She hasn’t broken the law, yet. To hear her talk she’s tougher than a junk yard dog, and the worst thing is she believes it. Just what would you like me to do, kidnap her?” Ian asked angrily. “Let’s not go that far,” Rory said, backtracking. “We need a plan and there’s nobody better at that than my sisters. I think a gentle touch is called for in this situation, much as I understand your desire to teach her a lesson about the world she’s chosen to inhabit. There’s a thug on every corner down there, but at least she’s kept her activities out in the open during daylight hours.” “That’s true, for now, but how long can you keep me tailing her? Sooner or later someone is going to question why, and I can hardly explain that she’s your little cousin from Ireland and you’re worried about her. Why don’t you go and see her yourself?” “I tried, and she smartly informed me that while she appreciated the family connection, she didn’t feel we owed her any special consideration and she would be sure to visit my mother once she was on her feet. For now, she preferred to be left on her own, which she was sure I would understand. Then she left the intercom. She might as well have slammed the door in my face.” “She didn’t?” “Yes, she did and she’s lucky we are not allowed in that building or she would have been very sorry.” Digging through his desk drawer he pulled out a bottle of antacids and tossed some back. “Care for any?” “Not yet,” Ian said, smiling for the first time since he entered the office, “but it’s comforting to know I’m not the only one Princess Hooligan is driving crazy.” Buy Links: Amazon Blushing Books Kobo |
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