May 23rd, 2013 | 
Author: 
Chica Bella by Carly Fall
Series: The Honor Guard
Publisher: Decadent Publishing
Genre: Interracial Romance
Length: 53 pages
Summary:
Landon “Blackhawk” Walker is ready to get out of the Navy SEALs. He has seen and done enough, and can’t wait to get to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico where three tasks await him: get back into civilian mode, take a boat out to the El Arco Rocks, and win back the heart of the woman he lost because of his career.
Maya Gonzalez has tired of the heartbreak that comes with Landon’s deployments year after year. When he walks back into her life, she cannot deny her heart, despite her reservations.
As they lose themselves in each other and the beauty of Cabo, their passion is rekindled once again, but Maya knows that one phone call means deployment for Landon, putting an end to their reunion, and possibly their relationship.
Naunet’s Review:
I was taken in by Chica Bella the moment I started reading this novella penned by Carly Fall. Ms. Fall describes the fragile love and trust of Maya Gonzalez and Landon Walker better known as Blackhawk because of his association of Navy SEALS. The theme of being in love with a Navy SEAL has a natural pull on my heartstrings because of my admiration of the work of the SEALs.
I was touched by Landon’s reluctance and “fear” of reconnecting with his love, Maya Gonzalez, because of the lack of communication and covert activities of his demanding duties of secrecy. The reuniting in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico was so tender and sensitive, bleeding of apprehensions from two beautiful people.
Ms. Fall does an extraordinary job of bringing the reader into the storyline by wrapping up all sensory elements and the prior knowledge and understanding of longing for someone. The pain of not being sure if your lover is alive and what they are doing is palpable. As a woman, I connected with Maya’s level of mistrust and pain when you don’t know what is happening to your man or what he is doing living day to day without a word from him.
Landon doesn’t know what to do as it relates to his relationship with Maya, but he can tackle any tough mission, withstand bullets, jungles, deserts, and bombs exploding around him. The thought of how receptive Maya will be when he re-enters her life is interesting because Maya is his missing magical piece of Heaven.
Maya waits in what seems to be an eternity missing Landon, his touch, his sparkling persona, and teasing manner along with making her feel so sensual and adored. In my opinion, this love between Maya and Landon is one that will never die regardless of the circumstances.
Ms. Falls’ depiction of Cabo San Lucas is on the money and I enjoyed how she shared the activities in Mexico, interactions among characters, and dialogue and as she states the rapid fire of Spanish that can often take place in conversations loaded with emotions.
Ms. Falls’ characters are fabulously sexy. Maya is breathtakingly gorgeous with a body built for sin and lust in the eyes of any man blessed to be in her presence.
Landon “Blackhawk” makes me want to scream with carnality. Those tight buns, abs and broad shoulders that appear to be capable of sheltering me from any storm are simply magnificent. Imagine touching the tattoo and the muscles surrounding it. Landon’s body and heart will make most women’s knees weak. Although he can’t stop the rain or torn emotions, I could feel his energy which appears to contain the power to change destiny.
Ms. Falls does justice to the parental guidance and support when it involves Maya and Landon.
Chica Bella is a quick read and I found myself caught up in the strange set of circumstances Maya and Landon were thrust into as a result of his deployments.
If you enjoy a quick, spicy tug of war of emotions story with explosive loving making, then Chica Bella will please your palate with all of the rushing emotions and memories packed within its pages.
I look forward to reading more of Carly Falls’ stories.
Rated 4 Seashells by Naunet!
Posted in 4 Seashells, Contemporary Romance, Interracial Romance, Naunet | 
Tags: Chica Bella, Decadent Publishing, Series: The Honor Guard | 
No Comments »
Unbeautifully Loved by Emma Grayson
Series: Breathe Again, Book One
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 314 pages
Summary:
In three words I can sum up everything I learned about life. Regardless of the shit going on in your life, this fact still remains.
It. Goes. On
Lexie Todd knew these 3 simple words. They were her mantra. So, after dealing with years of abuse at the hands of her boyfriend and the father of her son, she knows what needs to be done. With help from her best friend Mollie, they go on the run.
After months of being on the run they finally find the perfect town to settle in. Unable to trust and always having her guard up, the last thing Lexie wants is to get involved with Lukas Gunn.
Persistent, annoying, bossy, over protective and extremely hot, Detective Lukas Gunn.
After an incident leaves her vulnerable, Lukas knows there’s something haunting her. He’s determined to find out, wanting to protect her and make her his. But Lexie is determined also. Not wanting to give up her past, she pushes him away. Repeatedly.
But when history repeats itself, will Lexie finally be able to trust those around her to keep her safe? Will Lukas be able to save her? Or will Lexie succumb to only knowing what it’s like to be Unbeautifully Loved?
Excerpt:
Prologue
Meeting him changed my life. I never thought I’d meet someone who’d finally complete me like he did. Someone who finally made me feel whole and loved as much as he did. There’s always been a void in my heart, a void I thought I’d never have. I was in love, deeply in love, the kind of love that only comes around once in a life time, the kind you don’t want to live without and he didn’t even know how I felt. I’d waited too long and I didn’t know if I’d ever get to tell him.
The thought of him fizzled from my mind as my body shook from the cold under the thin sheet of a blanket that was wrapped around me. I was in shock, I could tell. I knew the signs. I winced as I moved; shooting pain licked my body in every direction. I knew a couple of my ribs along with my wrist were broken, and possibly something on my face, as pain swept over it and into my head. I raised my free arm up slowly, painfully, feeling my damp face as my hand found its way to the laceration on the side of my head, the source of only some of the pain. Unable to hold my arm up for much longer, it fell to the side throbbing and dangling off the edge of the bed. My body, it was beaten and bruised possibly more than ever before and I could feel myself slipping away, wanting nothing but to close my eyes and sleep, but it was the last thing I’d allow myself to do.
My mind was disoriented; I had no idea what day it was or how long I had been locked in this cold, dark place. Time was frozen, becoming nonexistent, and I was sure the days were just bleeding together. I thought about Finn and Mollie, hoping and praying they were safe because I didn’t know if I was going to see them again. The thought of that was unbearable. My eyes watered, nose burned and I felt like I couldn’t breathe.
Pull it together.
Think.
I didn’t know where I was, why I was even here or what caused him to do what he did to me. I felt like my life, my being, was being sucked right out of me. The abuse had taken its toll on my body and I had no fight left in me. All hope that I had earlier was beginning to fade away.
The door creaking open brought me back from my thoughts, my eyes snapped closed at the light that followed him in. I wanted to pull my blanket up to hide myself and hope it would make me disappear but I couldn’t and there was no point in trying.
Looking at him you wouldn’t think any kind of malicious evil would consume him, but it did. It was written all over his face, in the grin he wore and the burning in his cold, dead blue eyes. A shiver ran through me as I thought of his eyes looking back at me, blank, filled with nothing but coldness and the brightness of those eyes forever gone. I’d never seen a pair of eyes so cold, or so hollow and dark, not even the pair I looked into years before compared to what I was seeing now.
He walked over to the side of the bed, no words said. His rough cold hands roamed over my hair down the side of my face and my body stilled as I wished him away. My eyes snapped shut not knowing what was about to come.
His hand slipped under the covers, gliding over my naked arm, stopping above my elbow, lingering there a moment before moving away and then my cuffed hand was free. His hand went back, gripping my arm tightly as he pulled me to a sitting position. Pain radiated through me as I let out a whimper. He pulled me to my frozen feet, my knees shook, feeling like they were going to give out, unable to support me. I felt myself sway to the side but his grip held me upright, tightly; his fingers dug into my arm, pinching my skin.
What’s one more bruise?
He started to pull me towards the open door, my eyes squinting, trying to adjust to the light. I didn’t know where we were going and I was sure it wasn’t going to be good and for the first time I was wishing to stay in the hole. I didn’t have any strength to fight him so I let him pull me, taking me wherever he was going.
Maybe I had it all wrong. Maybe it was meant to end here and meeting him, falling in love, having this emptiness I carried around finally filled, maybe it was only supposed to be… temporary.
Life had a way of playing cruel tricks on you.
This I knew.
Boy did I know.
I no longer saw the future with him as bright, happy and full of love; it was suddenly now empty, numb and full of complete and utter darkness.
Tour Schedule
5/5/2013
5/6/2013
5/7/2013
The Readers Roundtable by Candlelight
5/8/2013
A Crazy Vermonter’s Book Reviews
5/9/2013
Mrs Condit & Friends Read Books
5/10/2013
5/13/2013
5/14/2013
For The Love Of Film And Novels
5/15/2013
5/16/2013
5/17/2013
Posted in Contemporary Romance, contest |
Tags: Author's Angels, Emma Grayson, Self-Published, Unbeautifully Loved |
2 Comments »
Going Under by S. Walden
Publisher: Penny Press
Genre: New Adult
Length: 344 pages
Summary:
Brooke Wright has only two goals her senior year at Charity Run High School: stay out of trouble and learn to forgive herself for the past. Forgiveness proves elusive, and trouble finds her anyway when she discovers a secret club at school connected to the death of her best friend. She learns that swim team members participate in a “Fantasy Slut League,” scoring points for their sexual acts with unsuspecting girls. Brooke, wracked with guilt over her friend’s death, decides to infiltrate the league by becoming one of the “unsuspecting girls,” and exact revenge on the boys who stole away her best friend. An unexpected romance complicates her plans, and her dogged pursuit of justice turns her reckless as she underestimates just how far the boys will go to keep their sex club a secret.
(This is a New Adult fiction book with mature themes. It contains graphic sex and language and a description of sexual violence.)
The Genre Dilemma
I have no idea what types of books I write, so I file them under genres like “Mature YA” and “New Adult.” I don’t even really understand these genres (and I suspect no one else does either), but they sound good. And I know they have something to do with older teens and people in their twenties. And they usually include some bad language and risqué situations/themes. So I guess my stories sort of fit, like shoving a size 8 foot into a size 6 shoe.
The problem? I write about ultra mature/ultra taboo topics. And so far they’ve involved teenagers. So you have the “f” word. And you have teens. And you have something really taboo like rape. “F” word + teens + rape = NO GENRE. And I will not classify them as Adult fiction. I refuse because I truly believe they are not (but adults are more than welcome to read them, of course).
New Adult is by far the closest, but even that genre requires . . . oh, I don’t even know what you call it. Mild restraint? Or maybe it doesn’t. I don’t know. What I do know is that I’ve yet to come across a book about teenagers that just puts it all out there. Raw. In your face. Makes you completely uncomfortable. Maybe outraged. “This is a book for teens?! How dare she! She is an irresponsible woman! She’s sending the wrong message!” (Man, I’ll know I’ve made it when I get a review like that.)
And it’s not like I’m trying to push the envelope. I just write about real things, and I say it in a real way. So it’s probably going to make you shift around in your seat until you find a comfortable position. Or maybe you’ll never find a comfortable position, and then you can write a review like the one mentioned above. I won’t be offended. I swear.
I’m not going to lie and say it’s not frustrating being a genre-confused writer. I feel lost. I’m that sad kid on the playground wandering around by myself with my face turned up to the sky. “Where are my friends? My genres? Who am I?” It’s all very existential crisis when I haven’t the time for it. I need to be writing. And once I’m finished writing, I need to have a genre to put it in.
So right now you’ll see “New Adult.” When enough people yell at me and say my content is too mature for “New Adult,” then I guess you’ll see “Adult.” Or maybe I’ll stick with New Adult just to be spiteful. Or maybe I’ll create a new genre.
How about the “You Know . . .Whatever” genre?
Author Links:
SHADOW K.
The book is in your mailbox. Enjoy!
Almost Perfect by Susan Mallery
Series: Fools Gold, Book 2
Publisher: Harlequin (HQN) Books
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 384 pages
Summary:
Back in high school, Liz Sutton was the girl from the wrong side of the tracks. Then she’d stolen the heart of the most popular boy in town, and their secret romance helped her through the worst of times. Until Ethan Hendrix betrayed her and everything they’d ever meant to each other. Devastated and pregnant, Liz left Fool’s Gold, California—forever, she thought….
Now Liz must return to town and face the man who doesn’t know of their son’s existence. And this time she won’t have the option of making a quick getaway. Ethan and Liz can’t deny their passionate attraction, even after all these years. But will their desire be enough to spark a second chance at love?
AJ’s Review:
Susan Mallery has penned a compelling, emotional story of second chances, betrayal, secrets, forgiveness of ones’ self and others, but most importantly love. Liz and Ethan’s story will take the reader through a myriad of emotions that range from anger, to denial, to sorrow, and ultimately to undying love.
Liz Sutton’s typical day was turned upside down when she read a heart wrenching email from her oldest niece, Melissa. Fearful for the children, Liz quickly packs her bags, picks up her son, Tyler, and they return to Fools Gold for two reasons and two reasons only. To find out what happened to her brother and why her nieces were abandoned by their stepmother. The one thing Liz never planned on was running into Ethan Hendrix, the father of her son and at one time, the love of her life. When secrets are unveiled and old wounds are re-opened, will this couple be able to weather the storm?
Ethan Hendrix can’t believe his eyes when he gets a glimpse of the woman who got away…Liz Sutton. But Ethan is in for a shock and as that shock manifest and the anger begins to flow, Ethan makes some stupid mistakes where it comes to Liz. There were times that I’m simply wanted to shake some sense into him. While it may seem they beat the situation to death, I appreciated that Ms. Mallery allowed the full depth and complexity of the situation come to fruition because life is messy and complicated and can never be quickly resolved and wrapped up in a nice bow. But as things begin to settle down and Ethan and Liz find some common ground, will his fear and stupidity ruin the tenuous bond that they’ve developed? Guess you’ll have to read the book to find out. 
The secondary characters play an important role in Almost Perfect. First, they allow the reader to gain a better grasp of Liz and Ethan’s past and the way things were back then. Second, we quickly learn that some of those people have truly grown up over the years after tragedy strikes their lives, especially Pia, which in my opinion is inspirational. But we are also reminded that the more things and people change, the more they stay the same, especially regarding Melissa and Abby and the fact that no one lifted a hand to help those young girls. My heart simply broke for them. The fears, frustration and emotional upheaval that Ms. Mallery incorporates into the story for all of the characters is palpable. I loved Ethan’s sisters because they had no problem telling him that he was an idiot. However, I must admit that his mother drove me crazy as she ran hot and cold on any given day, which became annoying after a bit.
What was most entertaining about Almost Perfect is how the townspeople love to get involved in their residents romantic relationships. It seemed as though everyone had an opinion, whether it was good or bad without even knowing the depth or complexity of the situation. There were a few characters that I simply wanted to slap. I had to give it up to Liz for putting up with their snide comments and quick judgements. Nevertheless, Fools Gold is still a town that I would love to visit because amongst all of the chaos and craziness, there are still some genuine people there that make the town appealing. As for the sexual chemistry between Ethan and Liz, it was off-the-charts. In a way, it was almost as if they had never been apart…at least that’s how it felt until the haze of lust was lifted and they came crashing back into reality.
Almost Perfect is a riveting read with depth, gumption, secrets, and love. The alluring characters are complex, well-developed, and full of raw emotions that desperately need to be explored on a deeper level. In addition, the sexual chemistry between Ethan and Liz sizzles as they fight their attraction for one another. The dialogue is rich and fluid with depth that not only makes the story more believable, but also brings the characters to life. If you haven’t checked out Susan Mallery’s Fools Gold series, then you are definitely missing out. This is one series that will put a smile on your face, warm your heart to the core, and take you on the emotional roller coaster ride of a lifetime.
Rated 5 Seashells and a Recommended Read by AJ!
Posted in 150+ Reading Challenge, 5 Seashells, AJ, Contemporary Romance, HQN Books, Recommended Read, Susan Mallery |
Tags: Almost Perfect |
1 Comment »
Going Under by S. Walden
Publisher: Penny Press
Genre: New Adult
Length: 344 pages
Summary:
Brooke Wright has only two goals her senior year at Charity Run High School: stay out of trouble and learn to forgive herself for the past. Forgiveness proves elusive, and trouble finds her anyway when she discovers a secret club at school connected to the death of her best friend. She learns that swim team members participate in a “Fantasy Slut League,” scoring points for their sexual acts with unsuspecting girls. Brooke, wracked with guilt over her friend’s death, decides to infiltrate the league by becoming one of the “unsuspecting girls,” and exact revenge on the boys who stole away her best friend. An unexpected romance complicates her plans, and her dogged pursuit of justice turns her reckless as she underestimates just how far the boys will go to keep their sex club a secret.
(This is a New Adult fiction book with mature themes. It contains graphic sex and language and a description of sexual violence.)
The Genre Dilemma
I have no idea what types of books I write, so I file them under genres like “Mature YA” and “New Adult.” I don’t even really understand these genres (and I suspect no one else does either), but they sound good. And I know they have something to do with older teens and people in their twenties. And they usually include some bad language and risqué situations/themes. So I guess my stories sort of fit, like shoving a size 8 foot into a size 6 shoe.
The problem? I write about ultra mature/ultra taboo topics. And so far they’ve involved teenagers. So you have the “f” word. And you have teens. And you have something really taboo like rape. “F” word + teens + rape = NO GENRE. And I will not classify them as Adult fiction. I refuse because I truly believe they are not (but adults are more than welcome to read them, of course).
New Adult is by far the closest, but even that genre requires . . . oh, I don’t even know what you call it. Mild restraint? Or maybe it doesn’t. I don’t know. What I do know is that I’ve yet to come across a book about teenagers that just puts it all out there. Raw. In your face. Makes you completely uncomfortable. Maybe outraged. “This is a book for teens?! How dare she! She is an irresponsible woman! She’s sending the wrong message!” (Man, I’ll know I’ve made it when I get a review like that.)
And it’s not like I’m trying to push the envelope. I just write about real things, and I say it in a real way. So it’s probably going to make you shift around in your seat until you find a comfortable position. Or maybe you’ll never find a comfortable position, and then you can write a review like the one mentioned above. I won’t be offended. I swear.
I’m not going to lie and say it’s not frustrating being a genre-confused writer. I feel lost. I’m that sad kid on the playground wandering around by myself with my face turned up to the sky. “Where are my friends? My genres? Who am I?” It’s all very existential crisis when I haven’t the time for it. I need to be writing. And once I’m finished writing, I need to have a genre to put it in.
So right now you’ll see “New Adult.” When enough people yell at me and say my content is too mature for “New Adult,” then I guess you’ll see “Adult.” Or maybe I’ll stick with New Adult just to be spiteful. Or maybe I’ll create a new genre.
How about the “You Know . . .Whatever” genre?
Author Links:
a Rafflecopter giveaway a Rafflecopter giveaway
Picture Perfect by Camille Dixon
Publisher: Self-Published
Publication Date: March 26th, 2013
Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Summary:
On the outside, Devin Thompson looks like he has it all – charm, good looks, and a scholarship every art major at Sanhope would kill for. But on the inside, he’s dying. His family is falling apart, his grades are dropping, and his girlfriend just dumped him for his hockey team rival, who also happens to be his younger brother. Not to mention he hasn’t been able to snap a decent picture for his senior portfolio in weeks. But when a sultry redhead with fire burning in her eyes struts across his path, he thinks he may have finally found his muse…
Angela “Angel” Davis learned early on that life never offers any hand-outs. And she’s getting burned out. Between juggling her nights as an exotic dancer at a men’s private club and struggling to keep up with her elementary education courses during the day, she barely has time to think of the future. Not that she wants to. The future implies planning, and Angel is no stranger to broken dreams. Then she meets Devin, a man who’s so wrong for her, yet she can’t seem to stay away from.
When Devin offers to take her on as his private model, Angel finds the cash hard to refuse. Each has something the other desperately needs, and neither one is willing to walk away. As their professional relationship spirals out of control into something more, they learn sometimes the wrong person can be the only right person, and that life – and people – are rarely picture perfect.
Excerpt:
The Fox Hunt had several private viewing rooms for one-on-one’s and VIP parties, all coordinated with a different color scheme. Blue was close by, so it didn’t take long for me to get there. After readjusting my bustier, I applied a sultry smile and slinked past the curtain.
Soft golden lights dotted the room, the walls of which were hidden by dark blue silk curtains. Non-scented candles burned on the two onyx tables in the room, highlighting the sensual, relaxed atmosphere. Beneath the curtains, the walls were padded, making them all but completely soundproof from the noise out on the main floor. Plush satin pillows dripping in tassels lay strewn about the floor, gathering next to the centerpiece of the room – a massive throne carved with the same embellishments as the tables.
Spying the figure lounged in the chair, my ruby lips pursed then twisted into a sly smile. “Huh. What do you know. You did have the cash after all,” I said as I sauntered forward.
The stranger from earlier never flinched. One dark brow rose in a comical arc. “Do you always start these things by insulting your clients?”
“Depends. Do insults and word play turn you on, or are you a more of a physical kind of guy?” I grabbed a sash from atop the pillows, grasping both ends before hooking it around the stranger’s neck and climbing onto his lap. Most men shivered or showed some semblance of intimidation when I came close, but not this guy. He held himself like a man who was comfortable around women. Something dark and hot stirred deep inside me, shooting adrenaline into my veins.
Challenge accepted.
Good afternoon Camille and Welcome to The Readers Roundtable by Candlelight.
Thank you for having me!
Let’s start with a simple question. How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing my whole life, but I’ve been actively writing for the past three years. (Yes, I had my fair share of fan fiction days when I was in grade school.)
Have you always wanted to be a writer?
I’ve always loved to write, but for some reason I never considered writing as a profession until later in my life. I think it comes to you when you’re ready for it.
Tell us about your book.
Picture Perfect is a sweet and spicy new adult romance about these people with damaged pasts – and hearts – who find redemption through their love.
How did you come up with the idea for Picture Perfect?
Like most of my ideas, it just kind of hit me one day. I knew I wanted a story about a dancer and a photographer, and I knew what Angel would look like. Then it was just a matter of figuring out the rest and letting it come to me.
Will Picture Perfect have a sequel, or will other characters get a book?
No, it’s a stand alone story. There isn’t enough conflict in the background characters’ lives to drive future stories, and I have other books I want to focus on.
What’s your favorite love story?
Hard to say! I’m a big fan of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility. I also love the film Ever After with Drew Barrymore.
Do you think you’ll ever pursue traditional publishing?
Yes! I want to be a hybrid author, and I make no secret of it. While I like having total creative control, it can also be draining. I wouldn’t mind if someone else did some of the work.
Are you writing any other books at the moment?
I’m outlining a new adult series called New Haven Hope that I hope to start releasing by the end of the year. It’ll have a similar vibe to Picture Perfect.
What other genres do you write?
Currently, I write high fantasy, urban fantasy, and paranormal romance under other pen names. I’m also interested in horror, erotica, and sci-fi. I’d like to eventually try them all, just to see what I can learn from them.
What do you like to do for fun?
Aside from reading, I like to play around in Photoshop and draw. I also enjoy watching movies and hanging out with my husband.
Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
Read a lot and write a lot. Read outside of your genre and read as many books inside your genre as you can. Look at the New York Times and USA Today Bestsellers Lists. Those books got on there for a reason. Read as many creditble “how-to” books as you can, critique others’ works, and have your own critiqued. Don’t half-ass it. Put everything you have into it.
Camille, thank you so much for joining us today at The Readers Roudtable by Candlelight. Please feel free to come back anytime.
I’m a Southern girl who’s spent the last few years freezing my toosh off up north. Except for the snow, things are pretty good. I love sunshine, sweet tea, and romances that touch my heart. A lifelong romantic, I found my own prince charming at an online dating site. Six months later, he asked me to marry him. Picture Perfect is my debut novel.
Author Links:
YADIRA A.
The book is in your mailbox. Enjoy!
Posted in Featured Author |
Tags: contest winner, Picture Perfect, Xpresso Book Tours |
No Comments »
Quickies Volume 1 by Donna McDonald
Publisher: Self Published
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 231 pages
Summary:
Quickies Volume 1 is a collection of three fun reads.
In “Her Best Mistake”, Lisa Dennison ends up in bed with the wrong man. Or maybe she doesn’t. Finn Roberts certainly doesn’t think it was a mistake.
In “Teach Me”, Leslie Mercer returns to her hometown to visit her old boyfriend and finds out his younger brother has had a crush on her for years. Grayson has been waiting for this chance all his life.
In “Cruising Speed”, the Larson men from the Art of Love Series are matchmaking without realizing it. A friend of theirs, Kia Anders, sells a bike to another friend, Mikkel Gunnarsen. Their instant connection is bad timing for both and yet too exciting to ignore.
Naunet’s Review:
Quickie Volume 1 by Donna McDonald and its theme of wonderful quickies is anything but. Ms McDonald is known for penning quality reads which contain so much meat and sides on the plate of sensualism that it is always a feast to be slowly savored.
The common threads twisting through the Quickie Volume 1 are the relationships of family, terms of endearment, and wonderful carnality’s. The tenderness and laughter are the glue that holds and connects the readers’ attention. Within Quickie Volume 1 the reader will share in three loving, tastefully sensual stories reminding me of a box of delectable, highest quality, semi-sweet chocolate truffles. Each of the stories are easy to identify with because of the strong, awesome, sexy characters who mirror people you know and love.
One of the messages I received from the stories is the promise of true love and there is time to acquire and delight in it. Ms. McDonald’s writing is as smooth, sassy and saucy as listening to the magical music from a Spanish guitar. She strums the strings of sensuality as a talented guitarist with passion that supersedes the boundaries of age. Ms. McDonald awakens the snoring, sleeping giant awaiting the moment to stand tall and thump its chest.
I enjoy Donna Donald’s work because of the smooth, easy rhythm of her writing style. Her dialogues and characters are intelligent, down to earth, mature and ohh so sexy. I can count on being entertained and encouraged as Ms. McDonald writes with the mature audience in mind. I have yet to be disappointed in her work. Her eye for detail is exquisite, and presents it with the clarity of an exquisite gem. If you are hungry for encouragement of how hot life can be, as well as cherished, happy and full throughout the mature stages of life then pick up a book penned by Donna McDonald. There’s no rocking in the chair on the porch for Ms. McDonald’s nonconformists.
Teach Me
Can you learn new tricks after aging into maturity? Sparks can fly and the magical man in the moon has the power to draw hearts and bodies together. Teach Me by Donna McDonald is a well executed lesson plan for a special student. Ms. McDonald captures the attention of her readers as they sit perched on the edge of their chairs. Will the lesson sink in and be retained as a demonstration of skill mastery and comprehension of the concept for the big exam? Ms. McDonald allows the flood of feelings from a crush manifest into pure unadulterated lust, tenderness and sincerity.
Donna McDonald decorates this classroom in Teach Me with eye catching stimuli and energy that only the visually impaired would miss, but would feel its vibration. Her main characters are beauty in body and soul. The settings are realistic to the point that I felt the sizzling heat not only from Texas, but also from the magical, sensuality two adults can share.
In the sweltering heat of Brenham, Texas Leslie Mercer visits her hometown and her old friends to catch up on the events in their world. There is a slight problem and Leslie does what all good friends/lovers do in the time of need …show up and lend a helping hand of support while pushing her feelings aside. This unselfish act may be the trigger to bring back the precious memories to the man who occupies the hospital bed as a result of sustaining a severe head injury after a car accident. Murphy Webb, a particular dear friend and high school love lays in the hospital bed with a shattered memory. Murphy, Grayson and the Webb family have adored and respected Leslie Mercer as a teen growing up in the neighborhood, but even more so as selfless woman and educator. She is passionate about giving to others and beautiful on the inside, as well as the outside. Leslie loved Murphy Webb until she discover the painful truth before leaving to attend an out of state college.
Grayson is a handsome, mature man and Murphy’s playful younger brother. Grayson has held on to a desire for Leslie since he was a kid. Wishing he could be more to Leslie than just the baby brother of her sweet heart.
I appreciated the positive strategies Leslie utilized to overcome a dreaded deed by kicking the flat energy of procrastination or avoidance and proceeds forward. It took eight long years for Leslie to visit the Webb family. I must admit that growing older can be worn proudly and looks damn good on both Leslie and Grayson. The aging process steeped in deep flowing magnetism is scalding between the teacher and student. Grayson is intoxicating, genuine, free, and respectful, which makes him all the more sexy, irresistible and squeezable.
Should age matter when two independent, intelligent adults are attracted to each other? Society has its opinion especially when the age difference is between a mature woman and a younger adult man.
As in all classrooms, the teacher often learns more than the students as she/he presents and models the lesson. This class appears to be brimming with all kinds of energy to create lasting memories. Great teachers are never forgotten.
Her Best Mistake
In Her Best Mistake, Ms. McDonald demonstrates that magnificent love can sometimes materialize under the wrapper unexpectedly. Someone will be fortunate to make such a mistake that contains so many blessings and gratifications of all varieties.
Life after a divorce is rarely easy to manage and adjust to after the fall out of painful moments. In Her Best Mistake, Ms. McDonald’s key character is a forty-something woman of substance and independence. Lisa Dennison is a member of the rapid paced corporate world and owner of a design business. She encounters a young, sexy business man by the name of Eric Roberts. He is an investor and all about making money and the social power that often accompanies prestige as a benefit of having the reputation of building wealth for clients under your advice. Eric Roberts’ notoriety of that of a man on top of his game. He and Lisa meet during a business conference in Boston. Is Lisa making a mistake by getting involved with a younger man?
Eric Roberts is young, handsome, sexy and has a little black book just in case. Eric has a brother who is also talented in his own right. Finn is a renown anthropologist who has been on digs all over the world and was recently in Egypt making discoveries. Finn is taking a short break from finding a relic to visit Eric, as well as to present a lecture at Harvard University.
Finn is also divorced and being out of the country on digs he made it difficult for him to hunt for a mate. Dr. Finn Roberts is handsome and sexy just like his brother Eric as the same characteristics run in the gene pool.
In Her Best Mistake, Lisa and Eric have an occasional drink and dinner after a meeting. Eric is attracted to Lisa, but Lisa is not interested in a relationship since her painful divorce. She is focused on building her clientele and taking her company to the next level.
Lisa and Eric were to have a dinner date just for fun and intelligent conversations, but things go array when Lisa’s raggedy cell phone is malfunctioning. The wires of communication become crossed and Lisa bumps into Finn since Eric has provided Finn with a exquisite suite at one of the best hotels in Boston. The location of where she and Eric were to meet for drinks. The crossed wires has Lisa’s fired up and ready to give Eric a good piece of her mind.
Lisa’s moment of mistaken identity creates a fantasy of steamy erotic dreams and romance. I will never forget the vivid depiction of sensuality and neither will the reader. Ms. McDonald hits all of the sensory neurons in Her Best Mistake with enough explosive ecstasy to shake a city . In Her Best Mistake, the settings and thoughts running rampant through Lisa’s mind are those many women can relate to. This quickie is one that will leave the reader salivating and envious. The story placed me in a state of bliss just as it did for the characters. Aren’t they Lucky?!
Cruising Speed
Keeping youth in the alive brings with it some complexities as most worry about tomorrow and how things appear to others outside trying to see inside of your soul and mind. Many people live their lives in fear of how they will be analyzed and perhaps allows this to inhibit their flowering into the beautiful, captivating person trapped inside.
Cruising Speed by Donna McDonald allows her characters Michael Gunnarsen, Michael Larson, and Kia Anders the freedom to let the wind blow briskly against their faces and hair as they roll along the road of life learning to enjoy the pleasures of the graciousness each day brings when things slow down enough to see the wonders of the world. I love the “way they roll”.
Ms. McDonald granted her characters the opportunity to rewind the clock of love and push aside the voices that bounced in their subconscious mind. In doing so, Kia and Mikkel may get a chance to enjoy the patience, kind, gentle unselfishness and the unrepentant of sensuality of seniors. The common physicality’s meshed with common interest and high energy can make the obvious manifest.
Kia is the woman many senior woman can envy because of her strength of character, independence, sexiness and self-assurance. Kia is a woman I would enjoy as a dear friend because she thinks outside the box like an adventure that accompanies a fast ride on her Harley and life. Ms. McDonald’s messages reinforce the positive images of women who have caring, loving, generous, free- spirits, who physically attractive and not afraid to climb boldly on the edge of the “norm”.
Cruising Speed’s secondary characters: Jessica, Will, and Carrie give this narrative the laughter, surprises, and support to keep the activities realistic and moving briskly. The setting is easy to visualize and the story rotates on its own spokes, which is delightfully entertaining.
As I read Cruising Speed, I pictured two of my friends in their sixties flying up the mountains of West Virginia and zipping around the southern end of Maryland on their bright, sparkling, burnt orange Harley. This placed a smile on my face remembering the joyful moments we share. Age is only a number because you are only as old as you feel. I know seniors who are slow moving, full of illness in their sedentary lifestyle. However, I prefer being lumped with the hot bodies Ms. McDonald depict in her stories. I give them a standing ovation for their active, abundant lifestyle with minor changes from the youthful, fun, missile flying intimacies. The choices we make keep the fires burning brightly through all kinds of communications.
Hearts in love do not lie nor can space and age keep those who share common indulgences away. I can count on Donna McDonald’s novels to be entertaining, encouraging, easy, free spirited, reality based and well balanced from beginning to end regardless of the genre. Her writing style stimulates the reader with elements of exhilaration for engaging in a zestful lifestyle. In my opinion, Ms. McDonald’s love theory is incredible at all stages. Its complexities build intestinal fortitude, and increases my desire to stay in command rather give up the ship because of a number.
Rated 4.5 Seashells by Naunet!
Picture Perfect by Camille Dixon
Publisher: Self-Published
Publication Date: March 26th, 2013
Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Summary:
On the outside, Devin Thompson looks like he has it all – charm, good looks, and a scholarship every art major at Sanhope would kill for. But on the inside, he’s dying. His family is falling apart, his grades are dropping, and his girlfriend just dumped him for his hockey team rival, who also happens to be his younger brother. Not to mention he hasn’t been able to snap a decent picture for his senior portfolio in weeks. But when a sultry redhead with fire burning in her eyes struts across his path, he thinks he may have finally found his muse…
Angela “Angel” Davis learned early on that life never offers any hand-outs. And she’s getting burned out. Between juggling her nights as an exotic dancer at a men’s private club and struggling to keep up with her elementary education courses during the day, she barely has time to think of the future. Not that she wants to. The future implies planning, and Angel is no stranger to broken dreams. Then she meets Devin, a man who’s so wrong for her, yet she can’t seem to stay away from.
When Devin offers to take her on as his private model, Angel finds the cash hard to refuse. Each has something the other desperately needs, and neither one is willing to walk away. As their professional relationship spirals out of control into something more, they learn sometimes the wrong person can be the only right person, and that life – and people – are rarely picture perfect.
Excerpt:
The Fox Hunt had several private viewing rooms for one-on-one’s and VIP parties, all coordinated with a different color scheme. Blue was close by, so it didn’t take long for me to get there. After readjusting my bustier, I applied a sultry smile and slinked past the curtain.
Soft golden lights dotted the room, the walls of which were hidden by dark blue silk curtains. Non-scented candles burned on the two onyx tables in the room, highlighting the sensual, relaxed atmosphere. Beneath the curtains, the walls were padded, making them all but completely soundproof from the noise out on the main floor. Plush satin pillows dripping in tassels lay strewn about the floor, gathering next to the centerpiece of the room – a massive throne carved with the same embellishments as the tables.
Spying the figure lounged in the chair, my ruby lips pursed then twisted into a sly smile. “Huh. What do you know. You did have the cash after all,” I said as I sauntered forward.
The stranger from earlier never flinched. One dark brow rose in a comical arc. “Do you always start these things by insulting your clients?”
“Depends. Do insults and word play turn you on, or are you a more of a physical kind of guy?” I grabbed a sash from atop the pillows, grasping both ends before hooking it around the stranger’s neck and climbing onto his lap. Most men shivered or showed some semblance of intimidation when I came close, but not this guy. He held himself like a man who was comfortable around women. Something dark and hot stirred deep inside me, shooting adrenaline into my veins.
Challenge accepted.
Good afternoon Camille and Welcome to The Readers Roundtable by Candlelight.
Thank you for having me!
Let’s start with a simple question. How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing my whole life, but I’ve been actively writing for the past three years. (Yes, I had my fair share of fan fiction days when I was in grade school.)
Have you always wanted to be a writer?
I’ve always loved to write, but for some reason I never considered writing as a profession until later in my life. I think it comes to you when you’re ready for it.
Tell us about your book.
Picture Perfect is a sweet and spicy new adult romance about these people with damaged pasts – and hearts – who find redemption through their love.
How did you come up with the idea for Picture Perfect?
Like most of my ideas, it just kind of hit me one day. I knew I wanted a story about a dancer and a photographer, and I knew what Angel would look like. Then it was just a matter of figuring out the rest and letting it come to me.
Will Picture Perfect have a sequel, or will other characters get a book?
No, it’s a stand alone story. There isn’t enough conflict in the background characters’ lives to drive future stories, and I have other books I want to focus on.
What’s your favorite love story?
Hard to say! I’m a big fan of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility. I also love the film Ever After with Drew Barrymore.
Do you think you’ll ever pursue traditional publishing?
Yes! I want to be a hybrid author, and I make no secret of it. While I like having total creative control, it can also be draining. I wouldn’t mind if someone else did some of the work.
Are you writing any other books at the moment?
I’m outlining a new adult series called New Haven Hope that I hope to start releasing by the end of the year. It’ll have a similar vibe to Picture Perfect.
What other genres do you write?
Currently, I write high fantasy, urban fantasy, and paranormal romance under other pen names. I’m also interested in horror, erotica, and sci-fi. I’d like to eventually try them all, just to see what I can learn from them.
What do you like to do for fun?
Aside from reading, I like to play around in Photoshop and draw. I also enjoy watching movies and hanging out with my husband.
Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
Read a lot and write a lot. Read outside of your genre and read as many books inside your genre as you can. Look at the New York Times and USA Today Bestsellers Lists. Those books got on there for a reason. Read as many creditble “how-to” books as you can, critique others’ works, and have your own critiqued. Don’t half-ass it. Put everything you have into it.
Camille, thank you so much for joining us today at The Readers Roudtable by Candlelight. Please feel free to come back anytime.
I’m a Southern girl who’s spent the last few years freezing my toosh off up north. Except for the snow, things are pretty good. I love sunshine, sweet tea, and romances that touch my heart. A lifelong romantic, I found my own prince charming at an online dating site. Six months later, he asked me to marry him. Picture Perfect is my debut novel.
Author Links:
Posted in contest, Featured Author |
Tags: Camille Dixon, Contemporary Romance, Picture Perfect, Self-Published, Xpresso Book Tours |
2 Comments »
His Allure, Her Passion by Juliana Haygert
Publisher: Decadent Publishing
Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Summary:
In his father’s eyes, Dylan Deveraux is just a playboy spending the family fortune on prostitutes, alcohol, and fast cars. And it isn’t even with the cars his father produces. Because of that, his father forbids his presence at the ball that will mark the launch of the US plant of his company, strategically scheduled on Valentine’s Day.
Hayley Allen is a failing model with the worse luck in the world. She always ends up in the hands of cruel designers and photographers. At least, that’s what she tells herself. Better than admit having a weak nervous system that always reacted during her gigs. Desperate, she would do anything to help her career.
Dylan shows up at her door, wasted as usual. Friends for a long time, Hayley is the only one able to put up with Dylan’s bullshit, and he appreciates that, but not the way her heart wants.
Even though he doesn’t believe in Valentine’s Day, Dylan has an idea for his father’s ball. When he suggests a deal to Hayley, a deal that could finally put her in the spotlight of success and help him impress his father, she doesn’t hesitate. Even if it means hurting her heart a little more.
Excerpt:
On tiptoes, Dylan crossed the short corridor and found Hayley sleeping on the couch. She looked peaceful, but he doubted she was really comfortable there. The pillow was on the floor, the comforter pressed in between her legs and arms, as if she was hugging it, her delicate feet propped on the arm of the couch. Her long amber hair fell around her shoulders, her tank top had ridden up, showing a piece of her soft midriff skin, and her breasts barely fit inside her tight top.
Shit. He turned his back to her, ashamed at having stared at her body.
But it was such a nice body, how could he resist? He peeked at her over his shoulder. He didn’t understand how she wasn’t a famous model yet. She was so, so beautiful.
He smiled, remembering the first time he saw her. They were at a party, and he spent over six hours trying to woo her, but she didn’t fall for his bullshit. No girl had ever resisted him—except Hayley. She was the first and only. And that’s how their friendship was born. Even though his instinct was to try and kiss her and sleep with her each time he saw her, Dylan had found a true friend in her, and for that he put his physical needs aside. She was the only one who understood his problems, his dark moments, who endured him, who saw past the bullshit, and didn’t throw herself at him. More importantly, she didn’t care about his fortune.
Hayley stirred, moaned, and opened her eyes. “What are you smiling about?”
Was he smiling? “Nothing.” He sat in an armchair beside the couch. As she sat up, she pulled the comforter up to hide herself. “Hey, hmm, sorry. I didn’t mean to take your bed.”
“I know.” She smiled and her green eyes shone.
“Was I too much of a jerk?”
“The usual.”
Their eyes locked and she lost her smile. There was so much he wanted to tell her, so much shit about his life, but he was always afraid he’d push her away if she found out every one of his little messes. Wouldn’t it be better, though? For her? To be away from him and his bad influence? But then who would give him pep talks and receive drunken him with open arms in the wee hours of the night? Who would tell him everything would be okay? Who would give him a hug when he was down because of his brother? He had driven many, many times from Princeton to New York just to have one of those hugs.
She was one of those rare jewels and he couldn’t afford to lose her.
Feeling like a coward, Dylan averted his gaze.
Nicknames: Ju, Juli, Seca (which is a slang for someone too thin in Portuguese – I was too skinny when a teenager)
Where do you live: Connecticut
Your favorite dessert: hm, anything with hot fudge and ice cream
Your favorite TV series: TVD, Nikita, Arrow, and Beauty and the Beast. I CANNOT choose only one from these.
Last book you read: Breathe by Abbi Glines
Last movie you watched: The Expendables 2 (horrible! good for laughs though)
Last song (or album) you bought: Lucifer by SHINee (South Korean boy band)
A book/series you could read over and over again: I’m not big into re-reading but I would say any book/series by Richelle Mead
Coke or pepsi? Both
Day or night? Night, though, after becoming a mother, I had to force myself to become a day person 
Pen or pencil? Pencil
Summer or winter? Winter – I have super low blood pressure and faint a lot during the summer, so …
Cat or dog? Dog
Tea or coffee? Both
Plotter or pantser? I was half-half, but now I’m trying to become more of a plotter
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? I’ve been writing since I was 13yo, but it was only a hobby. It was around 2009 when I thought I could try this seriously, but I took it very slow in the beginning.
What are you working on now? I’m writing NA contemporary romance called Breaking the Reins and I’m plotting The Everlast #2 which is unnamed yet. And I will not mention how many ideas are swirling around my mind. Too distracting …
If you decided not to be a writer, what would your other dream job be? Why? Architect. I went to architecture school for 3 years. Loved it to death. Still do.
What is the scariest thing you’ve ever done in your life? Moved out of my parents’ house in a very small town when I was 16yo and went to live alone in a city with 1.5 million habitants.
Who is the one person that has singlehandedly inspired you the most in your life? My father. He and I always talked a lot, about everything, and he always pushed me to be a better person. Before I went to college (for Architecture, then Graphic Design), he told me I should do something where I could use my writing – he knew I was destined to be a writer, even when I didn’t.
What is one talent that you’re hopeless at, but you wish you had? Singing. And drawing. How I wish I could do both at least a little decently, but nah. I’m hopeless.
What is one trait or physical characteristic that you are proud of/love about yourself? Physical = my greens eyes. Trait = I always treat others as I would like to be treated. Respect is the law.
Do you have any suggestions for aspiring writers? Don’t give up. Each word you put down, you’re improving your craft. Several known authors wrote lots of manuscripts before finding and agent/selling a book. Your time will come. You just have to keep at it.
About the Author
While Juliana Haygert dreams of being Wonder Woman, Buffy, or a blood elf shadow priest, she settles for the less exciting—but equally gratifying—life of a wife, mother, and author. Thousands of miles away from her former home in Brazil, she now resides in Connecticut and spends her days writing about kick-ass heroines and the heroes who drive them crazy.
Author Links:
Website
Goodreads
Facebook
Twitter
The Boys of Summer by C.J. Duggan
Series: The Summer Series, Book One
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Length: 294 pages
Summary:
It seemed only natural to nickname them the ‘Onslow Boys’. Every time they swaggered in the front door of the Onslow Hotel after a hard week’s work, their laughter was loud and genuine as they settled onto their bar stools. I peeked through the restaurant partition, a flimsy divider between my world and theirs. I couldn’t help but smile whenever I saw them, saw him … Toby Morrison.
Quiet seventeen-year-old Tess doesn’t relish the thought of a summertime job. She wants nothing more than to forget the past haunts of high school and have fun with her best friends before the dreaded Year Twelve begins.
To Tess, summer is when everything happens: riding bikes down to the lake, watching the fireworks at the Onslow Show and water bomb fights at the sweltering Sunday markets.
How did she let her friends talk her into working?
After first-shift disasters, rude, wealthy tourists and a taunting ex-boyfriend, Tess is convinced nothing good can come of working her summer away. However, Tess finds unlikely allies in a group of locals dubbed ‘The Onslow Boys’, who are old enough to drive cars, drink beer and not worry about curfews. Tess’s summer of working expands her world with a series of first times with new friends, forbidden love and heartbreaking chaos.
All with the one boy she has never been able to forget.
It will be a summer she will always remember.
Warning: sexual references, and occasional coarse language
Excerpt:
Moon rays filtered through the windshield, giving the cabin an otherworldly glow.
Toby’s perfect teeth were illuminated when he smiled. “You know, you are the worst winner!” He shook his head. “Ever since you won the bet, you’ve been apologising. Just go with it, enjoy it, because I assure you, next time …” – he leaned closer – “… you will not be the winner.” He pulled back, smug.
I curved a brow. “Next time?”
He nodded. “I fully intend to redeem myself.”
“Want a chance to rebuild your shattered ego, do you? I bet you’re itching to fix my bike so you can be rid of me once and for all.” I shouldered him gently, teasing him as I would Adam. And then I realised what I had done; I had treated him like my friends. He looked down at his shoulder, then up at me. His eyes shadowed with untold meanings that I couldn’t read.
“What if I didn’t want to fix your bike?” he said in all seriousness.
“Why, is my company so stimulating that you can’t bear the thought of being without me?” I teased nervously.
I was aiming for light and airy, but something must have gone wrong with my delivery because Toby’s face went blank. He looked out into the lights of Onslow, ran his tongue over his bottom lip and sighed.
C.J Duggan is an Australian author who lives with her husband in a rural border town of New South Wales, Australia.
The Boys of Summer is Book One in her Mature Young Adult Romance Series.
For more on C.J and ‘The Summer Series’, visit www.cjdugganbooks.com
SHADOW K.
Your book will be sent the week of Feb. 24th from the author. Thanks for participating!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway
