Saturday, October 25, 2014

Review and Contest: Zane's Choice by Mardi Maxwell


Title: Zane's Choice (The Doms of Club Mystique #4)
Author: Mardi Maxwell 
Genre: Erotic Romance, BDSM
Publication Date: August 5, 2014


[Siren Allure: Erotic Consensual BDSM Cowboy Romantic Suspense, spanking, flogging, sex toys, HEA] Beautiful, curvy Ravyn Templeton saw Zane Ramsey in a BDSM club in Houston three years ago. He's haunted her dreams ever since. Zane is an Assistant District Attorney and co-owner of Club Mystique, the BDSM club he and his brothers built on their Texas ranch. When Ravyn's ex-husband is arrested for trying to have her killed, the case is assigned to Zane. The moment Zane meets Ravyn he wants her and even though he knows having an affair with her will jeopardize his career, he can't resist her. When Ravyn's ex-husband accuses her of laundering money for a drug cartel, and she refuses to answer Zane's questions, he leaves her. Fate in the form of Addison Ramsey steps in and brings them together again and again. Zane has the power to save Ravyn but only if he loves her enough to fight for her. ** A Siren Erotic Romance.



Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/1owRMcK


I was very excited to get this book for review. I read To Love and Obey a few months ago and absolutely loved it. My hopes were high for this book, and I wasn't disappointed.

I didn't read the other books in the series, so I wondered if I'd be able to keep up. I knew Cade and Addison from book one as well as the other Ramsey brothers and Addison's friend Jenna. Some of the other characters were new to me, but I never felt behind or confused. Of course, now I really want to read the other books in the series.

Zane is the Ramsey brother in the hot seat in this book, and he's just the right combination of intense and sexy. Rayvn is submissive but also strong and spunky, a combination that always keeps my interest. The chemistry between Zane and Rayvn is palpable, and the sex scenes are incredibly hot. There's plenty of tension to keep you eager to turn the pages and lots of reasons to cheer for Ravyn and the new girlfriends she has helping her. The scenes that show Zane acting jealous or possessive help drive home his beyond-just-sex connection to Ravyn. There are some major surprises in the story, which kept me on my toes, and of course, a HEA that made me heave a huge, happy sigh. Loved this book! It's a 5-star read.








I was born in Utah but I’ve traveled throughout America and lived in west Texas and the mountains of Colorado. I wrote my first erotic romance in the summer of 2013. It was accepted and published that same year. Since then I’ve written three more books in the Doms of Club Mystique series and I’m busy writing the fifth and final book in the series. My heroes are tough cowboys with military backgrounds and my heroines are strong, sassy and submissive. I put a lot of emotion in my books because I want the reader to fall in love with my characters and feel their pain and their joy. My characters also tend to show up in the next book in the series and every book has a twist of suspense and a happy ending.





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Friday, October 24, 2014

Available for Pre-Order: Nikki's Fated

Book 1 of my Wolves of River's Bend series is now available for pre-order on the BookStrand website (Book 2 is complete and in pre-submision revisions).



PRE-ORDER!
AVAILABLE: Wednesday, November 5th
This title is offered at a 10% discount. Offer ends midnight CST, November 12th

[Ménage Amour: Erotic Paranormal Romance, M/F/M, shape-shifters, HEA]
Wolf shifter Nikki Black never expected her love life to mean the difference between lasting peace and all-out war. Especially when her fated, Luke Andres, wants nothing to do with her. Forced to join to prevent bloodshed between their rival clans, Nikki and Luke enjoy a blistering night of passion before facing another complication—Luke’s brother is also Nikki’s destined mate.
Mason Andres is passionate, loving, and sexy, and Nikki falls hard for him, thrilled that he feels the same. She wants the same love-match with Luke, but that’s the one thing Luke can’t risk giving her. Fighting destiny to keep his heart safe from the only woman who can claim it, Luke makes plans that could separate them for good. But when love and passion run soul-deep, fate can overturn even the best-laid plans.
Will Luke admit his love for Nikki before it’s too late, or will his wounded heart destroy the trio’s shot at lasting happiness?
A Siren Erotic Romance

Preorder Here: http://www.bookstrand.com/nikkis-fated


 STORY EXCERPT


“Nikki—” her father began, clearly not getting that she didn’t want to talk to him.

“Excuse us.” A large hand reached between them to take Nikki’s arm. “They’re playing our song.” It was Luke, and Nikki wouldn’t have been more surprised if one of the guests suddenly sprouted wings and flew away. He was asking to dance with her? Was that a smile she saw? Nikki actually looked to the sky for the lightning that was sure to strike at any minute.

Warily, she allowed him to lead her onto the temporary dance floor and wrap his arms around her waist.

He whispered in her ear as he swayed to the slow music, rocking her along with him. “Let’s make it look good.”

Nikki wrapped her arms around his neck, perplexed but hopeful. Maybe he was going to behave decently toward her now that they were officially joined. “Thank you—for rescuing me over there.”

“You looked like you needed to get away. And we do have a common enemy. One thing we can both agree on right now is how much we loathe our fathers for this.”

Nikki shook her head. “Who would have thought it would take mutual anger to bring us together?” She looked up into his gray eyes and the rest of the world just seemed to melt away. She felt every hard line of his body, every muscle, and if she wasn’t mistaken, that was the beginnings of an erection pressing up against her belly. His arms tightened around her and her gaze drifted from his eyes to his full lips and back again, even as her own lips parted in anticipation of his kiss. Maybe the rest of their joining day wouldn’t be so bad, she thought, as he leaned closer, the desire to kiss her clear in his eyes. But then he surprised her by moving toward her ear instead of her lips.

“I did you a favor, getting you away from the old man, but let’s not get carried away.” His lips grazed her ear as he whispered, sending tiny waves of anticipation straight to her core.

“What do you mean?” She pulled back to look up at him and had to remind herself, not for the first time, that it would be a mistake to get lost in his eyes. Unfortunately, his mouth was just as dangerous a focal point. His lips screamed sex, and on the few occasions she’d made the mistake of watching his mouth while he talked, her pussy had immediately gotten wet and she’d managed to miss at least half of what he’d said.

“Look, I know I was a sort of a dick at first…”

“Sort of? That’s the understatement of the century.”

“Fair enough, but the point is, I made it clear I didn’t want a mate, that I wasn’t ready. And I want you to know it’s not about you.”

“Oh great, is this one of those ‘it’s not me, it’s you’ speeches? Because if it is, spare me. I already know it’s you.” She had to work hard to keep her voice even and matter-of-fact.

“You don’t sugarcoat much, do you?” He had the nerve to sound amused.

“Nope, I’m a straight-shooter.”

“Good, so you’ll appreciate what I have to say. You’re a beautiful woman, and being close to you like this has an incredible effect on me. I want you—badly. There’s no question of that, but wanting you doesn’t change how I feel about this joining. I went through with it for the same reasons you did, but I don’t want you to set yourself up for disappointment.”

“Okay…” She wasn’t quite sure what he was talking about, and once again, he was the king of the understatement. She could clearly feel how hard he was for her. Frankly, she wouldn’t be surprised if his erection tore a hole in his pants.

“Look, what I’m trying to say is that you shouldn’t expect this to be a love match. That…It’s just not in me. I’ll do my duty, but…that’s it. I can’t offer you more than that.”

“I don’t know what to say.” Nikki hated that his words hadn’t dampened her desire any. The last thing she wanted to do after that speech was want him.

“I have a feeling that doesn’t happen very often.”

They danced in silence as one song ended and the band struck up another slow favorite. “Say something,” Luke said.

“What for? You have this all figured out. I’m stuck with a mate who is determined to never love me. What do you expect me to say to that?”

“Well…” He stroked his knuckles over her cheek, then her lips. “We can still enjoy each other.”

Oh, God. Her pussy tightened at his touch. Nikki knew she’d live to regret how excited his words made her feel, but just then, she didn’t care. The call of her mate’s body was just too strong. “So, you want to fuck me, but you plan to keep feelings out of it. Got it.”

His armed tightened around her waist and he trailed a single finger down the side of her neck and over her collarbone, stopping where the tops of her breasts swelled out of her dress. “Tell me you don’t feel the same.” He leaned down and buried his nose in her neck. Damn it, he was smelling her. “You can’t hide how badly you want me.”

Her nipples were hard enough to cut glass and her pussy was so wet she needed to change her panties. “I can’t hide it, so I won’t bother denying it.”

“And you can accept that we won’t have a love match?” He was facing her again, his lips just inches from hers.

“What possible difference does that make? As you pointed out, we’re stuck with each other now.”

Luke smiled again, and this time she could swear it was genuine. Leaning in further, he claimed her mouth in the first real kiss they’d ever shared. His lips were the perfect combination of smooth and sensual, and firm and demanding, and Nikki couldn’t help but lean into his kiss, into him.

When he finally released her mouth, she was breathless. He looked down at her and she could swear his eyes were darker than normal.

“Good,” he said. “Because I, for one, am tired of waiting for the fun part to begin.”



ADULT EXCERPT


Groaning, Mason set Nikki on her feet. He wanted that dress off. It was a gorgeous piece of material that left her shoulders and back bare but at that moment, it was the enemy. He was impatient to see her body again, and this time, get to enjoy it, as was his right as her mate. Mason could understand why his brother had ripped her nightgown off the night before. He had the same impulse, but he took a deep breath and steeled himself to unwrap her like the gift she was.

The moment Mason set Nikki on her feet, she was reaching for the top of the gown to shed it herself. “No, let me,” he said, leaning down to kiss her neck.

A shudder coursed through Nikki’s body at his words. She smelled faintly of vanilla and clover, but under that, the scent of her arousal was strong. It threatened his ability to take care with her delicate dress. Forcing himself to put his intense need aside, he eased the silky cloth over her breasts and down to her hips, leaving it to Luke to take it the rest of the way. Mason hoped Luke would keep himself in check. He’d throttle him if he ruined their first night together.

Standing back to watch, Mason took in the full swell of her breasts and hardened, rosy nipples. He swallowed hard as his gaze traveled over the flat belly that would one day round with his pups if he had anything to say about it. She had full hips, breeding hips, and smooth thighs that made him growl with anticipation. His hands flexed, itching to squeeze them as he plunged into her. Nikki’s calves were shapely as well, screaming to wrap themselves around him, and they were finally bare, thanks to his brother’s efforts. The only thing she still wore was a pair of strappy, high-heeled shoes, which, thankfully, Luke hadn’t removed. In some things, he and his brother thought alike.

Mason lifted Nikki against him, bending to take her nipple in his mouth, teasing it with his tongue while palming the other breast. His touch was gentle at first, but grew rougher when he discovered that a firmer touch pulled deeper moans from his mate’s throat. He gave the other nipple the same treatment before easing down to trail hot kisses across her belly. Nikki was so smooth and soft everywhere, he could almost fear breaking her, but her touch was firm and almost fierce in its need. She wrapped her hands in his hair and urged him lower, even as her belly trembled under his kisses.

Kneeling, Mason stroked his lips over Nikki’s smooth mound and heard her breath catch. He looked up and found her staring back at him, biting her bottom lip. He didn’t hesitate to give her what she wanted. He licked from the top of her mound to her entrance before focusing his attention on lapping her slit. Nikki’s breath came faster as she ran her fingers through his hair, holding on as his tongue parted her pussy lips and flicked her clit. That provoked a tiny growl from her, so he pressed his tongue hard against the bud, first applying pressure and then letting up to circle and suck it, and finally stiffening his tongue to apply the same pressure as before.

When he pulled back to look up at her, Nikki’s head was thrown back, her mouth wide open. “Oh, God. Please. Please, don’t stop.”

He smiled at her unguarded response before going back to taste her again. This time, he licked and nibbled at the inflamed bud before ducking lower to press his tongue into the sweet cream coming from her pussy. He was sure he’d never get enough of it as he lapped there, trying his damnedest to lick her dry even as her juices kept coming. Holding her steady with one arm, he stiffened his tongue and plunged it inside her, reaching up with the other hand to rub and pinch her clit.

“Oh, God. Mason…” Nikki squeezed her hands in his hair and arched toward him, grinding her pussy against him.

* * * *

Watching Mason with Nikki had Luke unspeakably horny, not that he hadn’t been in a constant state of horniness since he’d met her. It was the reason he’d acted like a caveman and ripped her gown on the night of their joining. He’d ceased to think like a man and had given in to the inner animal that only wanted to fuck her senseless. This time, he would stay in control.

With a groan, Luke approached Nikki from behind. The sight of her full, round ass nearly drove him insane. He’d thought he would just let his brother handle most of the foreplay, but watching her and smelling her arousal from across the room, he couldn’t wait any longer. Her low growl drew him to her like she’d reached out and grabbed him.

Still clothed, Luke wrapped his arms around her slender waist and bent his knees to press his already-rock-hard cock against the two round globes he’d been admiring. She sighed and leaned back against him, and Luke ground his cock hard against her ass as he stroked up her body to cup her breasts.

 


Monday, October 20, 2014

Operation Weight Loss: Week 6


Another week has gone by, and I'm 1.1 pounds lighter than I was last Monday. At least that's what my scale says, though I'm not sure I trust it. On Friday, I cheated and weighed in a little early, and the damned thing said I'd gained a pound and a half. Today, it says I lost 1.1 pounds, so I'm not sure what to think. My pants are a little looser, and I'm having to roll the waistband of my pajama bottoms, so I take it I am losing something, but my scale is driving me batty. I guess it's time to buy a new one.

I do also weigh myself using the Wii balance board when I play Wii Fit, but that thing is even worse. Up, down, up, down--it's constantly changing its mind. Ugh!

So the verdict is that I've lost something, but I really have no idea how much. I did eat well, for the most part, last week. There's no such thing as a perfect week for me, though. At least not yet. If I eat well for six days, chances are you're going to find me scarfing ice cream for breakfast on the seventh (butter pecan, of course). I'm a good mom, though, so I hide from my kids while I do it. Otherwise, they'll want to share.

Going forward, I have a new scale on the agenda and the desire to work out 5 times this week. I only managed to exercise three times last week. I have to get my butt in gear.

I'm snacking on Cheerios Medley Crunch this week, which helps my sweet tooth and doesn't contain a hell of a lot of calories.  I'm also trying Hungry Girl's Lord of the Onion Rings. It's 30 onion rings for only 155 calories. And there's no deep frying. Yup, I'm all over it.

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

In the Spotlight--Fire and Ice: Season of the Vampire 1


Fire and Ice


Seasons of the Vampire I





Title:  Fire and Ice
Series: Seasons of the Vampire I
Author: Maya DeLeina








Amazon - http://ow.ly/ChF7d 
Barnes and Noble- http://ow.ly/ChG0r
Smashwords- http://ow.ly/ChFo6


  




Noel Tierney thought she’d have enough time before the predicted storm to make it to her holiday retreat, but the snow hit sooner than expected. Caught unprepared on a treacherous pass, poor visibility and icy conditions lead to a crash. She lay immobile in her vehicle, stranded in a ditch in the most remote leg of her journey.
A faceless hero comes to her rescue and Noel has no choice but to wait out the blizzard in her rescuer’s unique cabin nestled in the woods. Everything about Grayson James peaks her curiosity—his valor, air of mystery and most of all, undeniable attractiveness.
For three days and nights, passions are unleashed and unexpected emotions are brought to life. When the storm breaks, Grayson vanishes into thin air, but not before revealing startling news that leaves her questioning her sanity.
Fast forward years later and Noel is in the southernmost part of the United States. She’d come seeking solace after her husband’s tragic death, but what finds her in Key West is more than she ever anticipated.
In the sultry summer, her unbridled winter’s ecstasy resurrects.


And so does the Vampire. 



"In the depth of winter I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer.” 
-Albert Camus





Story Excerpt:




Dark yet welcoming, the restaurant pulled them in with its ambiance.

The plastered walls were sponged in color blocks of a deep red and black. The ceilings were painted in a high polish black and stone black tile lined the floor. Striking kabuki masks and detailed silk kimono robes lined the walls

The women shared the restaurant with no one except the spiciness of sriracha seasonings and robust scent of the rich soy sauce that filled the air. They sat on their high top stools at the bar, enjoying the food and the reprieve from the heat. 

“Air conditioning is nice, huh?” Noel asked.

“Yes, I’ll give you that. I forgot how sticky this weather can be. I think we have to get used to having bad hair and make up days.”

 “I think you’re right.”

Suzanne finished sipping the last of the broth. “The soup is amazing. It’s not the kind of cuisine I had in mind for our vacation in Key West, though.”

“I had no clue this was even here. But, I needed this…helped with my hangover.”

“Feel better?”

“Absolutely. I think I can tackle a Sandhill Hooker shot or two today. After all, we are on the infamous Duval Street.”

“Okay, pickle juice that way…now you’re talking.”

She looked around the place and smiled. “It’s pretty cool in here.”

Suzanne leaned her head back. “And look at how high the ceiling is. I like all that exposed ductwork. I wonder what this place was before?”

“This used to be a club,” said the waitress as she carried in a case of liquor from the kitchen to the bar.

“This was a club?” Suzanne asked.

“Yeah. You two new to Key West?”

“First time here.”

Noel sat quietly listening to the conversation unfold between Suzanne and the waitress.

“You want a little history on this building you won’t hear about on any tour guide?” The waitress asked as she unpacked the box and carefully placed the bottles on the lighted shelves behind the bar.

“Sure.”

“This restaurant and the entire vacant spot next door used to be one big club.” The waitress turned around and pointed towards the ceiling. “There was an entire second floor up there. The owners of the restaurant demolished it since the place is small and narrow. The height makes it feel spacious. You can sorta tell how it looked like the second floor with that small area they kept above the kitchen. The red spiral staircase you see leading up to that area…that’s original to the building.”

“Yeah, taking the second floor out does make it feel bigger. So the club must’ve been packed all the time to have two floors, huh?”

The waitress laughed and leaned against the counter. “They didn’t advertise.  And you notice it’s off of Duval right?”

The women nodded.

“Not much foot traffic on this street like Duval. This was the hush-hush place. You had to get invited. Secret door knock and password would let you in—extremely private and exclusive.”

“You ever get invited?”

“Oh, God, no. I have no idea who got invited, but I wasn’t one of them. In fact, I never knew the club existed until a friend told me that the owners were going to put the building up for sale a few years ago. I was like, ‘what club?’ And the thing was, I walked past the place many times and always thought it was an abandoned building.”

“So what was the deal? Why was it private? What went on?”

“Rumors claimed it as an adult playground.”

“If the place was still in operation, somehow I know Suzanne would get an invite,” Noel chimed in.

Suzanne flashed a wicked smile.

“Possibly,” the waitress said. “Get’s your thoughts going, right? Like, what exactly happened in there? Who went there? But the one thing I was always curious about was seeing the place. They say it was like being on another planet.” 

Noel awaited a break in the conversation to jump back in with her questions. But movement from out of the corner of her eye caught her attention. She snapped her head to look at the loft area and gasped. 

“What?” the waitress asked in a concerning tone.

She scanned the area in confusion.

“What’s wrong?” Suzanne asked.

“I-I thought I saw something up there.”

 The waitress peered into the kitchen. “Can’t be. No one else is here except Jesse and he’s at sink.”

“What’s that door up there?”

“That’s the access point to the space next door, but its sealed shut from the other side. Trust me. I’ve tried to see if I could get in to sneak a peek.” 

“What is it that you think you saw?” Suzanne asked.

She shrugged her shoulders as goose bumps paraded along her skin. The same feeling stirred again—as if she were being watched. “I thought I saw someone looking down on us from that railing.”

Suzanne turned to the waitress. “We partied a bit last night.”

“That tends to happen in Key West.”

“I think we’ll take the check and I’ll get this one out for some much needed fresh air and vitamin D.”

“Sure thing.”

“I’m not crazy, Suzanne,” she whispered as she reached for her purse.

“I didn’t say you were. I just think you need to get outside.”

“Sammy told you right?”

“What?”

“The boat? Me freaking out that someone was watching me last night?”

“Yes. But, honey, I think you’re just thinking of Dante being in this place and visualizing him. That’s all.”

The waitress slid the check across the counter and Suzanne immediately snatched it up. “My treat. You get drinks tonight.”

“Thanks.”

Suzanne placed the cash on top of counter. “Keep the change, darling. Thanks for the 411 on this place. Very interesting.”

“No problem. You guys go have fun.”







Character: Noel Tierney                                                                             Character: Grayson James






Adult Excerpt 18+:

“You don’t know me, Noel. I may look like something you’re used to, but on the inside, I-I am not a man—”

She lifted her head and sensually kissed his chin, breaking him in mid-sentence. “I know you can’t offer me anything past this. I get it. But you are a man and I want you.” She tilted her crotch upwards and spread her legs wider, giving him more access to her pussy that was wet and ready. She circled her hips slowly, rubbing her moist and swollen lips against his long, hard shaft.

“You don’t understand,” he whispered with an ache of torment in his voice. He buried his face into her neck. “You just don’t get it.”  He sucked on her flesh right where her neck met her shoulder.

“Oh!” Her eyes rolled back in her head. She shut her eyes tight, concentrating on the sensation he stirred in her body.

Most women say it’s their nipples, but for her, the most sensitive part on her body lie at the crook of her neck. A treasure-trove full of pleasure nerves, her neck proved her undoing. If a man kissed her at the right spot, with the correct amount of pressure, she could be sent over the edge. And with his performance, Grayson delivered her right to the gates of heaven.

“I can come with you just worshiping my neck,” she whispered seductively in his ear.

He continued devouring her flesh. He caught her muscle in his teeth and bit down.

“Jesus!” she yelped in surprise.

A burst of iciness shot through her muscles. The burn traveled all through her shoulders, down to her fingers. Another trail went into action, extending up past her neck and wrapping around her skull like a glove.

No pain existed.

A new sensation emerged.

The cold turned to heat, soothing her down to her bones. All the tension she held in her neck and shoulders since the accident faded.

And then that unmistakable feeling rolled in.

“I’m gonna come!”

She hadn’t a clue what he was doing or why he obsessed with kissing her neck.

She simply said a silent thank you for whatever magic spell he performed on her.  

He remained planted at her neck while his hand positioned his cock at her opening. She continued riding the waves of pleasure when he entered her. He released her neck and focused his eyes on her body. Hunger burned in his stare.

“Take me,” she begged.

He huffed and wrapped his hands around her waist. He kneeled back and tilted her pelvis up as he thrust into her.

She gasped at the angle of his entry.

He speared her with his luscious cock over and over again, slow in his rhythm, but steady and deep in his penetration. He fit snuggly inside of her, stretching her just to a point that transformed the woman inside of her to an animal. “Yes, do everything to me. I’m all yours.”




About Maya DeLeina:

Maya DeLeina is a multi-published Erotic Vampire Romance Author with Siren,  Evernight and Ellora's Cave Publishing.




Born and raised on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, Maya could be seen at her favorite beach, Lanikai, performing with an all-girl band where she played keyboards, guitar and provided vocals, working as editor in her high school's yearbook and volunteering her time at a humane society through UH of Manoa civic groups.


In 2006, Maya relocated to Colorado. Her crystal blue oceans, waterfalls and eighty-degree year-round weather were traded for four season weather, enchanting forests and majestic mountains, which led to her rekindled love for vampires.


In winter of 2010, she penned her first manuscript and by 2011, Flesh Fantasy was under contract and released by Siren Publishing. To date, Maya’s titles includes Flesh Fantasy, Veil of Seduction, Blood of Luna, and Dark Companion, with Fire and Ice and Crimson Snow being added to her bookshelf by the end of 2014.


In mid 2014, she banded with other Colorado romance authors to form the group, Mile High Muses, in which Maya serves as "The Vamp". Catch her Forbidden Fruit Friday blog and guests she hosts on Sultry Saturdays


Not only does Maya have theatrical book trailers that bring her sexy vampires to life, Maya and her vampires were featured in Singer/Songwriter Jill Cohn's music video "Blessing Moon".



Social Media:

















Barnes and Noble: http://ow.ly/BQwac






Maya’s Arabian Dream Station: http://www.pandora.com/station/846337414931101366



Monday, October 13, 2014

Operation Weight Loss: Week 5

It wasn't such a hot idea to weigh myself at the end of last week. Why, you ask? Basically, that left only two days until my next weigh in, and I climbed on the scale to see no movement. Well, actually, it said I gained 2 ounces. Now, I know that means nothing since weight fluctuates a little each day, but it still annoys me to see it.

I was also bad today and ate a bunch of loaded fries. A BUNCH. So now, I really have to behave for the rest of this week. Those fries sure were good, though.

Right now, I just want to give up and tell myself I've lost enough. I'm sick of healthy eating lol But I know now is the time to work even harder. Eventually, eating well and exercising will become a habit again rather than a chore. It happened before, so it will happen again, right? Please say yes. The part of me that adores potato chips and donuts is so hoping the wants-to-be-healthy part is terribly and completely wrong.

Friday, October 10, 2014

Friday Night Eats: Lamb Stew

I didn't weigh myself at the beginning of the week because I was way too bloated. I thought I'd just wait for Monday, but today my pants felt a little looser, so I decided to suck it up and climb aboard. Well guess what? I lost 2 pounds! Woo hoo for me! I guess all the apples, carrots, and baked chicken breasts I've been eating are starting to pay off.

As for tonight's meal, I made lamb stew. I've always loved the taste of lamb and wanted to try it as a substitute for my favorite beef stew recipe, but my local grocery store never has lamb cubes. And no, I can't cube my own. I'm too lazy for that. This week, though, when I was looking through the meats for packs of lamb chops, I spotted four packages of lamb cubes. I have no idea why they were there since this store hasn't ever stocked them in the 10 years I've shopped there, but I didn't bother asking questions. I bought them, a bunch of potatoes, some beef broth, and some vegetables, so I could try out this yummy-sounding Crock Pot Lamb Stew Recipe.

I found the recipe on The Reluctant Gourmet, and it calls for : 
  • Lamb stewing meat 
  • Flour 
  • Salt (Didn't use any)
  • Sugar (Didn't use this either)
  • Dried thyme
  • Pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Beef broth
  • Parsnips (I didn't have any)
  • Carrots
  • Pearl onions (I just used the yellow onions I happened to have on hand) 
  • Frozen peas 

As for booze, I'm not having any again this week. Since I'm on a roll with the weight loss, I don't feel great about drinking my calories. Maybe once I'm at least halfway to my goal, I'll add the drink exploration back in. Happy Friday!

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

In the Spotlight: Author Taylor Brooks

Hi everyone, thanks for hosting me today to talk about my newest release, Forbidden Fruit.  This is the 3rd book in my Z Pac Alpha Shifters series and with this story I’ve added quite the surprise, taking this portion of the series to a scary time for the members of Zarantaria.
To understand a little bit more of my shifters series and the different species within them, I’ve prepared a short summary for you below. Be sure to read to the very bottom of this post for your chance to win an eCopy of this new release!

3D World Creation by Planet Postmoderna LLC

Four species live amongst one another in a land known as, Zarantaria. The large island of Zarantaria is a vast land with virtually every terrain imaginable.  It is rich in both forest, hard scapes and natural waters, some of which are fed from rivers and streams, which come from the waters that surround them.
Large rock formations make up a massive mountain range known as the Tetopas, which stretch through the valley out onto the farthest southwest corner of the island where the Sparticians live. 
While the island is roughly one hundred miles in width and nearly half that size in height, it is surrounded by a vast body of crystal clear water known as, The Ulstrea Sea which goes on as far as the eye can see. Ulstrea feeds several small rivers which flow into fresh water lakes within the Tetopas. While being a mountainous area, there are some tropical elements held within this land as well, such as beautiful plants and flowers. There are gorgeous sunsets of pink and purplish hues, which disappear into the shimming waters of Ulstrea.
 Surrounding the Tetopa Mountains are three other territories, which are home to the Panthtarians in the north west territory, the Concorrians in the north east territory and the Lynxians in the south western territory.
While most of these species live together in harmony with one another, there has always been an unspoken power struggle between the Sparticians and the Panthatarians, which lends to some conflict whenever they cross paths. Both species are the more dominant of their population, with the Concorrians and Lyxians being the more passive species. With the Sparticians heading up the biggest branch of law enforcement, the The Oath Keepers, The Panthatarians have always been said to have a dark side and all of Zarantaria are warned never to cross them.
Zarantaria is land that holds incredible beauty and intense emotions. Like with all strong feelings one can often times expect to find themselves experiencing passions that can both delight and bedevil.



Forbidden Fruit [Z Pac Alpha Shifters 3]

     Rourke Falco is single, lonely, and has no desire to even look for a mate. When his restlessness starts to take hold of him, he takes time away from the territory he works and live in. His hopes are that he may find some peace in the nearby blissful Unicyn Forest. 
     Ty Neston is a loner. When he becomes stricken with a problem that feels so good it is nearly painful, he escapes into the forest within the Sergin Valley. 
     Whether by luck or fate, Ty and Rourke cross paths with one another more than once. Ty is unable to deny his attraction for the Rourke and makes his move. Their uniting might have been fleeting if it hadn't been for a fruit that Ty had brought along the way. 
      Unrelenting passions and unmistakable lust set the stage for these two as they test the boundaries of species while exploring the depth of their connection.


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ADULT Excerpt:

Rourke stared out into the woods. Trees blanketed the area around him and made the forest seem darker than it actually was. If someone was lurking out there, he would never see them from where he stood. He was going to have to venture out into that same darkness in order to find whoever was stalking him.

He had just been about to take that first step when goose bumps formed on his body and the eeriest sensation washed over him. Completely frozen, Rourke stood, waiting silently for what he felt was right behind him.

As he opened his mouth to speak, the words were stolen right from him when he felt a warm breath hit the back of his neck. He should have been terrified at that moment. He had no idea who this person was. Yet the heat he felt from that simple gesture gave him a completely different reaction.

Lust.

He could feel it growing in himself just as he sensed it from his silent observer.

Rourke slowly turned, not entirely sure what he expected to see.

When he was completely turned around he saw a man who he didn’t recognize. His hair was thick and black, cut short against his head. When his eyes met the person standing behind him, he was surprised to find that he was a few inches shorter than Rourke.

He looked down at him. With the flickering of the campfire Rourke could tell they were a magnificent blue, the kind that reminded him of the sea on a bright sunny day. Tonight they didn’t appear bright, though. They looked dark and mysterious. They looked tortured.

“Who are you?” he asked.

“Ty.”

“What are you…doing here?” Rourke asked, hesitating as he felt the warm breath of this man hit his bare chest.

“I want you.”

Rourke was taken aback by his response. It was so blatant, and he offered no apology for his blunt reply.

“You…want me?”

Ty leaned in and placed his head closer to the hollow between Rourke’s neck and shoulder. He inhaled deeply and let out a primal grumble.

“Do I know you?” Rourke asked, trying to ignore how turned on he was getting.

“No.”

Whoever this man was, with his short answers and promiscuous behavior, it was obvious that he wasn’t from these parts of Zarantaria. Rourke was certain he would have recognized him if he was. The combination of his hair, olive skin tone and gorgeous blue eyes left the mind whirling with possibilities. This man, the one who calls himself Ty, was not the type who would be easily forgotten. This was the kind of male Zarantarian that Rourke knew he could never forget.

“Where did you come from?” Rourke asked.

Ty shook his head and lifted his hand. He cupped the side of Rourke’s cheek and massaged his thumb across Rourke’s stubbles. “That doesn’t matter.”

“What do you want?”

“I already told you,” Ty answered matter-of-factly and pressed his body into Rourke’s.

When Rourke felt the outline of Ty’s hard cock press against his upper thigh, his own dick swelled with excitement.

He had no idea who this man was. He had no idea where he came from. All he knew was, that no matter how crazy it seemed, he wanted Ty as well. He may regret it in the morning, but right then, in the moment, he was going to take what Ty was offering. He had to. His body begged him to.

Rourke reached down between their bodies and stroked the thickness that was poking at him. A small droplet of pre-cum leaked through Ty’s shorts, enticing Rourke all the more.

He pulled away and slowly rubbed at his own cock. Closing his eyes, he recalled just how long it had been since he’d been with another male.

“Fuck, you are beautiful,” Ty whispered. “Take off your jeans. I want to see you.”

Rourke opened his eyes, slightly embarrassed that he felt so vulnerable to this man. He always considered himself to be in charge whenever he dealt with sex, but at the present moment he felt like putty in Ty’s hands as he began unbuttoning his jeans.

Ty licked his lips and quirked up an eyebrow as he watched Rourke. The hunger Rourke saw in him only intensified his own. He had never minded casual interludes before, in fact he usually welcomed them.

This though, this was different. This man had come out of nowhere. Rourke had no idea who he was, where he had come from, or whether or not he’d ever see him again. For all Rourke knew he could be a figment of his over stressed imagination.

He didn’t care either way. If this man was a damn mirage, Rourke was going to fuck him. He needed this. He wanted this. He wanted him.

Other books in the series:

















A little bit about Taylor:
I first fell in love with writing when I penned my first book for Siren Publishing, Take Me. I’m also an avid reader and find myself drawn to the stories of gay lovers. I think the passion these types of stories hold to be absolutely beautiful. This also explains why it’s my genre of choice for writing.
In addition to my Sultry SoCal, Rocky Mountain Man Hunt, and Z Pac Alpha Shifter series, I have many stories brewing inside my head just itching to break free. So stay tuned and I strive to come up with new and exciting ways to tease and please the readers.

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