Review: Brief Encounter

Title: Brief Encounter
Author: Alice Gaines
Publisher: Avon Red
Release Date: May 29, 2012
Pages: 41
Buy Link: Free on Amazon

My Summary:

Beth's job was to expose frauds in the art world. She was invited to an exhibit with the famous DiMarchiones erotic paintings. Alone with a sexy Italian in a deserted museum, Beth found herself luckier than the women in the paintings.

My Review:

I liked this book! It wasn't absolutely as intense as others I've read, but this one was good, too. I loved how the sexy Italian was described. I love the air of confidence that surrounded him the entire time. I wished there was more to it, though. It would have been interesting to see where their relationship would have gone after Beth found out who he was.

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Promo/Giveaway: Sugar & Spice

Sugar & Spice
by Kristen Beairsto

Self-Published
Contemporary Romance
Heat Level: Steamy
Length: 122 pages

Available at:

Amazon: Paperback | Kindle
BN | Kobo

Blurb:

Sugar and spice makes everything nice, but mixing business and pleasure can come with a price . . .
Francis Stevens – Frankie to her friends – has declared herself permanently single after a couple of monumentally disastrous relationships.  And she doesn’t mind at all.  Between the international expansion of the lingerie catalog company she runs with her friends, labor strikes, and her regular work load, she has little time for love or a relationship.

But Royce Weston has other ideas.  After his family accuses him of becoming a workaholic, a chance encounter with Frankie at a night club has his mind on things other than business.  As luck would have it, Royce winds up the executive assigned to work with Frankie and her lingerie company when she partners with his family’s investment firm to fund her expansion.

Despite Frankie’s outward appearance of confidence and swagger, insecurities rear up and cause her to over compensate and drive harder for what she wants.  Doubts weigh her down and with Royce watching her every move, she fights to keep her businesswoman’s façade firmly in place.  But while Frankie tries her best to keep her mind on business, she can’t ignore the way Royce’s touch makes her feel or the fact that he makes it clear he’s interested in more than just a business relationship.  

When all of her defense mechanisms fail to keep him at arm’s length, Frankie finds herself wondering: is it possible to mix business and pleasure?

Excerpt

“Any chance you’d leave the catalog to come have dinner with me?” Frankie froze. Was he asking her out? She shook her head, reminding herself it didn’t matter. Frankie dropped her pencil and sat back in her chair to stretch for a moment, “Sorry, I can’t. I need to get this done as soon as possible. Wisconsin really set me back.” She tried to stomp down her regret. “That’s what I thought you’d say.” Whipping around, Frankie stared disbelieving at the sight of Royce standing in the doorway leading to her office. Looking much the same the night he showed up at her apartment with dark hair mussed, suit jacket slung over his arm, tie undone hanging around his neck, and his briefcase in his hand along with a brown paper bag. In his free hand, he held his BlackBerry to his ear. The corner of his mouth curving upward, he took the phone from his ear and turned it off without taking his eyes off her. “How did you get in?” Frankie finally asked when she found her voice again. Arching a brow, Royce pointed to the cell phone she still held to her ear. Turning her head, Frankie looked blankly at the phone as though she didn’t know how it got there. With an embarrassed blush rushing up her cheeks, she rolled her eyes at herself and turned the phone off. Royce strolled into the room, “You forget, Weston, Inc. owns this building, which means I have access to a key,” he set his briefcase and the bag of food on the table beside her layouts, “but we can’t talk because we have to dance.” Totally bewildered, Frankie just stared at him, “Huh?” Coming around behind her chair, Royce pulled it out from under the table, “My mother was born and raised in Vegas. If there’s one thing she taught me, other than never talk to strangers and always brush my teeth …” he informed her as he pulled Frankie to her feet, her shock at his sudden appearance and his announcement made it easy. Taking her hand in his, he moved her other hand to his shoulder and his free hand took up a firm position at the small of her back. He pulled her so close she felt the heat of his body envelop her, “You never let a beautiful woman sit while she listened to Ol’ Blue Eyes. Frank’s songs were made for dancing.” As Fly With Me began, Frankie had the vague sensation of her feet moving in step as Royce led her in time with the melody. “I should warn you, I’ve broken toes before,” she tried for a light tone. She found herself having a hard time breathing. Had the room been this warm all night? With the same lopsided grin, “I think I’ll take my chances,” he informed her right before moving her into an unexpected turn. Almost losing her balance, Royce caught her just before she lost her footing, causing her to laugh as she fell back in step with him. She couldn’t help but enjoy herself. When he moved for another turn, she stood ready for him, laughing smugly, ridiculously proud of herself. “Not bad,” he gave an approving nod. “Maybe for an empty office, but not exactly ballroom material,” she joked. The song ended and flowed into Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered so quickly, Frankie didn’t even notice when Royce slowed their movements considerably. Smiling at him, Frankie relished the feel of his arms firmly around her for a moment, “You’re very good at this.” Royce grinned, “It’s one of the main attractions on my resume. My mother thinks it's romantic to be able to dance this way, while my father only knows how to dance this way. When they started dragging me to their friends’ parties, I didn’t have a choice but to learn.” “Well, you’re still very good. And I agree with your mother, it is romantic,” she chuckled. When they actually stopped moving, Frankie didn’t know. But she soon realized they stood still, his fierce sapphire gaze locked with hers. She ordered herself to break the contact to look anywhere else but into his eyes, but she couldn’t. He leaned slightly downward towards her, “Maybe Mom was right,” he whispered, his head descending the rest of the way.

About the Author:

In between her to-be-read pile and trying to bring the characters in her head alive, Kristen spends as much time as she can with family and friends.  Much to her husband’s dismay, she enjoys collecting purses, shoes, and jewelry.  During those rare times she’s not working at her day job, rushing her daughters somewhere, watching movies with her husband, and trying to meet a deadline, she can usually be found energetically cheering for one of her favorite New York sports teams.

As with just about every other writer on the planet, Kristen grew up an avid reader.  She started with young adult before she technically hit the age range and moved on to sci-fi classics by Isaac Asimov and Ray Bradbury.  At fifteen, her best friend gave her a book she just had to read! The book was Honest Illusions by Nora Roberts.  Always a sucker for a happy ending, she was a goner and fell in love with the romance genre.  Having started writing novel length stories at the age of eleven, Kristen’s stories all took a romantic turn from that point on.

Visit Kristen online at:

Email - kristen.beairsto@yahoo.com

Website - http://www.KristenBeairsto.com

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/AuthorKristenBeairsto

Twitter - https://twitter.com/#!/AuthorKBeairsto

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Review: Freudian Slip

Title: Freudian Slip
Series: Sex Therapy
Author: Vivian Claire Prescott
Publisher: Arcato Publishing
Release Date: August 19, 2012
Pages: 26
Buy Link: Kindle

Blurb:

Julie hadn't felt a spark of passion in her life for years, not until she met the incredibly sexy Dr. Beau Konno. When he first touches her between her legs, she knew she would do whatever he asked of her. Unsure of how a relationship would work with her psychologist, she feels intimidated and confused, but when Beau Konno sets his sights on what he wants, nothing will stand in his way.

Excerpt

He leaned in closer to her, his hand warming the skin on her arm. “So it’s okay to admit you were both wrong. Admitting to some responsibility is healthy. Shouldering all of it is not. I think the first step you need to take is to make it okay to be angry with him, and relieve yourself of a little of the fault. He was the one who left the marriage before telling you. Doesn’t that make you angry?” What he said made sense. Her ex-husband hadn’t been honest with her. Inside her heart, a spark ignited, reminding her of the pain she had felt when she found those panties while doing his laundry. He had tried to lie and say he didn’t know where the panties had come from, and had accused her of planting them for a short while. It was at that point she forced herself to steal her heart and go through with the divorce. Only now she wasn’t thinking much about the divorce. She was feeling Dr. Konno’s hand on her arm. The longer it lingered, the more she could imagine those hands holding her, stroking sensitive parts of her body. It had been a few months since she’d had sex at all, and this touch was enough to set her mind into very crude images of Dr. Konno in various positions. She surprised herself at her excitement and knew her panties were already a little wet. “What are you thinking about?” Dr. Konno’s voice pulled her out of her thoughts, and she felt his hand move downward toward her leg. Her blush had to be prominent. “I don’t really have feelings for my ex-husband,” she said. “I’m glad he’s gone. I’m not really upset about it. I’d really like to just move on with my life.” He smiled then. “Sounds like you don’t need me. You’ve got it handled pretty well. Or you’re in denial.” He leaned forward until his lips were at her ear, his hand moved upward on her leg. “I can help you feel better, Julie,” he said. “Will you trust me?” She was shocked to find herself considering his suggestion. What was she doing? She shouldn’t let her psychologist touch her. She knew it was inappropriate, it had to be. And she didn’t really know him! Still, she couldn’t help herself. It had been a long time since she’d felt wanted. Dr. Konno’s eyes were locked on hers and she was lost in his sexiness, in the warmth of his hand on her leg. “I think I trust you,” she said. “Close your eyes.” Even though her moral side told her not to, her eyes closed. She felt Dr. Konno’s hands sliding up her leg further until he was brushing his fingertips on her inner thigh. Gently, he pushed at one leg until she was sliding them apart. “Good girl, Julie. You’re so beautiful,” he said. His hand shot up her thigh to grip at her skirt and pulled it upward. The sudden force and being exposed like she was sent a wave of excitement through her. He was going to touch her -- and she wanted him to!

Review

This book was steamy!!!

At first, I didn't know if I should be creep-ed out of Dr. Konno. I mean, he was acting very unprofessional. But, he was also super sexy in Julie's eyes. Well, who can resist a sexy psychologist? Right?

The writer was good at what she does because I was seriously having my own little crush on Dr. Konno the way she described him. He was basically perfect: rose garden in his home, a pond, and a room with bookshelves in it. Sexy, right?

Unfortunately, there was a lot of confusion in this book. Even after finishing it, I was confused with the situation. I understand it was a domination/submission story, but something about it just wasn't clear for me. I also was left hanging at the end. I really wanted to know what happened when she arrived at his house in a dress!!!

I recommend this book if you like the tease :) I really want the second book now.

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Promo/Giveaway: Wicked Allure

Title: Wicked Allure

Series: Wicked Allure, #1

Author: Leslie C. Ferdinand

Release Date: March 20^th 2012

Genre: Romance, Erotica

Publisher: Self-Published

Ebook/Paperback/Hardcover

Pages: 287

Book Description:

Three years ago, Madigan DeLeon walked away from Zachary Steele.  Now, she's back in his life to help run her mother's sex club.  Unable to resist, she is soon back in his bed.  Her heart and body is fully engaged but her head is urging caution. Zach wants another chance and he'll let know one stand in his way, not even Madigan herself.

Buy Links: Smashwords | Amazon (Paperback) | Amazon (Kindle) | Lulu (Hardcover) | Barnes & Noble | Kobo Books

Book Trailer:

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Guest Post: Laura Kaye

Title: One Night With A Hero
Series: The Hero Series
Author: Laura Kaye
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Release Date: October 20, 2012
Pages: 188
Buy Links: Amazon | BN | Kobo

Blurb:
He wants just one night…
After growing up with an abusive, alcoholic father, Army Special Forces Sgt. Brady Scott vowed never to marry or have kids. Sent stateside to get his head on straight—and his anger in check—Brady’s looking for a distraction. He finds it in his beautiful new neighbor’s one-night-only offer for hot sex, but her ability to make him forget is addictive. Suddenly, Brady’s not so sure he can stay away.
…what they need is each other.

Orphaned as a child, community center director Joss Daniels swore she’d never put herself in a position to be left behind again, but she can’t deny herself one sizzling night with the sexy soldier who makes her laugh and kisses her senseless. When Joss discovers she’s pregnant, Brady’s rejection leaves her feeling abandoned. Now, they must overcome their fears before they lose the love and security they’ve found in each other, but can they let go of the past to create a future together?

Guest Post

Thanks to Arianne for hosting me here today! I’m celebrating the release of my newest contemporary romance, One Night with a Hero (Heroes #2). Since things are a little more wild over here at Provocative Pages, I thought I’d share what I think are my top 10 steamiest scenes from across all of my books (along with a one-sentence teaser from that scene) – you can let me know if you agree or if I missed your favorite!

10. Up Against the Wall Scene, West of Want. “Closing his eyes, he became sensation, smelling her scent on his mouth, feeling her slick grip on his shaft and her short fingernails dig into his neck, hearing the long, satisfied sigh that escaped from her swollen lips.”

9. Make-Up Sex/Feeding Scene, In the Service of the King. “Kael threw his head back and roared in a sound that could only be described as ecstatic triumph, then as quickly dropped his face to her throat and buried his fangs deep within the yielding flesh of her neck.”

8. Dungeon Scene, Seduced by the Vampire King. “Hanging on the dungeon bars, Kate’s whole body sagged against him, her weight falling onto his chest and the hand between her legs.”

7. Lake Scene, Her Forbidden Hero. “The firm ridge of his erection pressed and nudged between her legs, and soon Alyssa couldn’t help but rub herself against him as they continued to kiss and nibble at each other’s skin.”

6. Ski Resort Scene, North of Need. “They kissed and writhed in a frenzy. Desire overwhelmed her. ‘In me. Get in me.’”

5. Up Against the Wall Scene, One Night with a Hero. “One hand gripping a breast and the other her shoulder, Brady hunched himself over her body and came at her with a series of quick, deep strokes she felt everywhere.”

4. Foursome Scene, Just Gotta Say. “An erotic soundtrack filled the air—her constant moaning, Jack’s stream of muttered expletives and encouragements, Lucas’s guttural grunts, the bed shifting under them, their bodies slapping together.”

3. Consummation Ceremony Scene, In the Service of the King. The only reason this isn’t number two is because there’s no sex. Without question, it’s my most erotic non-intercourse scene! “Shayla was so magnificent in her bloodlust that he reveled in every wanton lick and rough suck of her mouth on his skin.”

2. Elevator Make-out Scene #2, Hearts in Darkness. “Tell me, Red, you gotta say it out loud. I can’t see your face or your eyes, and I don’t want to make any mistakes here.”

1. Truck Scene, One Night with a Hero. Since I’m celebrating this book right now, I’m putting this scene, definitely one of my hottest, in the preeminent position! *grins* “Joss held her skirt out of the way as Brady used his massive thighs to hammer his hips upward, fucking her even though she was on top.”

So, is your favorite here? Giveaway: Tell me which of my sexy scenes is YOUR favorite! If you’ve never read any of my books, which of the above sounds yummiest? One commenter will win their choice of any one of my ebooks. Open to international.

Thanks for reading!

Laura

About Laura Kaye:

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of nearly a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal.

A published non-fiction author, Laura’s work as an historian and training as an archaeologist help her create vivid and accurate portrayals of other times and places. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

See the whole One Night with a Hero Tour here and enter Laura’s Pandora Bracelet Giveaway here!

“Laura Kaye is synonymous with great, sexy romance.”

~NYT Bestselling Author Jennifer Probst

Check out these other titles from Laura!

Title: Her Forbidden Hero
Series: The Hero Series, #1
Author: Laura Kaye
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Release Date: May 14, 2012
Pages: 146
Buy Link: Amazon

Blurb:
You always want what you can't have...

She's always been off-limits...

Former Army Special Forces Sgt. Marco Vieri has never thought of Alyssa Scott as more than his best friend's little sister, but her return home changes that...and challenges him to keep his war-borne demons at bay. Marco's not the same person he was back when he protected Alyssa from her abusive father, and he's not about to let her see the mess he's become.

...but now she's all grown up.

When Alyssa takes a job at the bar where Marco works, her carefree smiles wreak havoc on his resolve to bury his feelings. How can he protect her when he can't stop thinking about her in his bed? But Alyssa's not looking for protection--not anymore. Now that she's back in his life, she's determined to heal her forbidden hero, one touch at a time...



Title: West of Want
Series: Hearts of the Anemoi, #1
Author: Laura Kaye
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Release Date: July 17, 2012
Pages: 400
Buy Link: Paperback | Kindle

Blurb:


Betrayal is all he's ever known, but in her, he'll find a love strong enough to be trusted...

When Marcella Raines' twin brother dies, she honors his request to be buried at sea, never expecting the violent storm that swamps her boat. Though she's gravely injured--and still emotionally damaged from her recent divorce--Ella fights to survive.

Zephyros Martius is the Supreme God of the West Wind and Spring, but being the strongest Anemoi hasn't protected him from betrayal and loss. Worse, he's sure his brother Eurus is behind it. When Zeph's heartbreak whips up a storm that shipwrecks a human, his guilt forces him to save her.

Ella is drawn to the vulnerability Zeph hides beneath his otherworldly masculinity and ancient blue eyes. And her honesty, empathy, and unique, calming influence leave Zeph wanting...everything. When Eurus threatens Ella, she and Zeph struggle to let go of the past, defend their future, and embrace what they most want--a love that can be trusted.



Title: North of Need
Series: Hearts of the Anemoi, #2
Author: Laura Kaye
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Release Date: May 15, 2012
Pages: 326
Buy Link: Paperback | Kindle

Blurb:


Her tears called a powerful snow god to life, but only her love can grant the humanity he craves...

Desperate to escape agonizing memories of Christmas past, twenty-nine-year-old widow Megan Snow builds a snow family outside the mountain cabin she once shared with her husband, realizing too late that she's recreated the very thing she'll never have.

Called to life by Megan's tears, snow god Owen Winters appears unconscious on her doorstep in the midst of a raging blizzard. As she nurses him to health, Owen finds unexpected solace in her company and unimagined pleasure in the warmth of her body, and vows to win her heart for a chance at humanity.

Megan is drawn to Owen's mismatched eyes, otherworldly masculinity, and enthusiasm for the littlest things. But this Christmas miracle comes with an expiration--before the snow melts and the temperature rises, Megan must let go of her widow's grief and learn to trust love again, or she'll lose Owen forever.


Title: In the Service of the King
Series: Vampire Warrior Kings, #1
Author: Laura Kaye
Publisher: Harlequin Nocturne Cravings
Release Date: February 1, 2012
Pages: 74
Buy Link: Kindle

Blurb:

Kael, Warrior King of the Vampires loathes the Night of the Proffering. He needs the blood of either his mate or a human virgin to maintain his strength, but hasn't enjoyed the ritual since he lost his mate centuries ago. Kael doesn't want a new companion, yet his resolve is tested when he lays eyes on his new offering, Shayla McKinnon.

He is drawn to Shayla's beauty and poise...and the submission she offers. She is eager to give him anything he wishes, including her innocence, to please him. Will Kael give in to their overwhelming desire -- even if it means risking Shayla's life?



Title: Seduced by the Vampire King
Series: Vampire Warrior Kings, #2
Author: Laura Kaye
Publisher: Harlequin Nocturne Cravings
Release Date: June 1, 2012
Pages: 66
Buy Link: Kindle

Blurb:

American exchange student Kate Bordessa has fled to Russia to escape her family's hopes that she'll become one of the Proffered, human women who feed and mate with elite vampire warriors. But when she stumbles upon a wounded vampire in the streets of Moscow, she's instinctively driven to protect him--and feels an undeniable spark of desire.

Grieving over the deaths of his brothers, Vampire Warrior King Nikolai Vasilyev has thrown himself into battling his enemies, focused only on vengeance. Until the attack that brought him to Kate. Their sexual attraction explodes into a night of uncontrolled passion--a night that marks them as mates. Is their connection strong enough to convince them to embrace a destiny neither of them was expecting?


...aaaaannnd many more! Laura has other books not listed here so make sure to check her website for the complete list!

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Friday Freebies (3)

Friday Freebies is a new feature where I showcase free romance/adult books I've acquired from Amazon.

Today's freebies were found from the Kindle store when I searched the Erotica category.
DISCLAIMER: The following books were free at the time of purchase. They may not be free at the store anymore. If they are, they will be captioned as FREE.

Free

Free

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Guest Post: The Haunting of a Duke

Title: The Haunting of a Duke
Author: Chasity Bowlin
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc.
Release Date: July 22, 2012
Pages: 290
Buy Link: Paperback | Kindle

Blurb:

Facing danger from both sides of the grave, will two souls merge to find a love that conquers all? Communing with spirits has been both gift and curse to Emme Walters. Now it's made her a killer's target. Emme knows why the Dowager Duchess of Briarleigh invited her to a house party--to investigate whether the duke, Rhys Brammel, murdered his wife years ago. But Emme never imagined she would fall in love with the brooding duke.

Branded by society as a possible killer, Rhys is suspicious of Emme and her alleged "gift." Then a late night encounter creates awareness of her other, more attractive, aspects. When Emme's life is threatened, Rhys becomes her protector. Emme and Rhys find passion and peril as they join forces to solve the mysteries at Briarleigh. She made him believe in spirits, but can she make him believe in love?

Guest Post

The Story Behind The Haunting of a Duke

I wish I could say it all came to me in a dream and flowed easily from my fingers. It didn’t. I’d had the idea for a long time of a regency miss who was a psychic and would “sleepwalk” when communing with spirits in her dreams. In fact the first scene of the book, which was eventually trimmed down to the first couple of pages in the book during editing, had been written for years. Just sitting there in my documents folder taunting me.

The very simple truth is that I am a published author today because I got swine flu. Quarantined for 11 days, I felt fine, I just had a perpetual fever and could not leave my house. Boredom is very difficult for me, daytime television is horrific, and on day three I ran out of new books to read. So I went back to my own writings.  I read that first scene with Emme creeping about in the dark and inspiration/boredom compelled me to write. By the time I was able to go back to work, I had written around 30,000 words, which was half of the first draft.

I had never finished a book. I have been writing for decades, hoarding ideas. But that leap of finishing a book and then having to share it with the world had always terrified me. But with half of a novel, a damned good novel at that, sitting there in front of me, I was committed. I felt like if I didn’t finish it, I never would. It was simply time to stop talking about one day and make it happen.

I sent out submissions. Got rejections. Revised. Sent out more submissions. Got more rejections. Revised, again.  Submitted and then headed off to the RWA Convention in NYC in 2011. There, I pitched my little book and got a few requests. Shortly after coming home, Wild Rose Press, whom I had queried before, offered me a contract. That is the story of how the Haunting of a Duke came to be. Six months to write, a year to get a contract, and eleven months from signing that contract to release. Each step was agonizing, but ultimately worth it.

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Kristine Cayne's Top 10 Romance Novels

Hi everyone! I'm here to close this tour with a top 10 from Kristine Cayne. Don't forget to enter the giveaways below. They end tonight at midnight EST.

Title: Romance in the Rain (A Seattle Anthology)
Authors: Kristine Cayne, Dawn Kravagna, Charlotte Russell, Sherri Shaw, Clare Tisdale, Marianne Stillings
Publisher: Kristine Cayne
Release Date: October 15, 2012
Pages: 360
Buy Link: Amazon (US) | Amazon (UK) | B&N | Kobo | ARe | Smashwords 

Blurb:

From the pioneer days of Seattle through the smoke-filled clouds of WWII and into the present, Romance in The Rain takes readers on a journey with four generations of the strong-willed and passionate Caldwell family. The anthology of six novellas is a collaboration of the Seattle-based Rainy Day Writers group.

Splendor in the Moss by Charlotte Russell—By the spring of 1853 Englishman James Caldwell has traveled thousands of miles in a quest to find a place to call home. Newly settled Seattle isn’t that place and he’s ready to move on again when widowed Mattie Jensen marches into his life as somber as a cloudy day. But James can see through the solemn haze to Mattie’s strength and passion. Now he has a reason to stay, if he can just convince Mattie to take a second chance on love—and him. (22,000 words) 


Final Approach by Marianne Stillings—With the world at war, Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Service pilot Lt. Charlene (Charlie) Thompson faces personal battles as well. Pearl Harbor left her a widowed bride, certain love would never come again – but battle-scarred Capt. Joe Caldwell has other ideas for the beautiful lady flyer, if he can just keep her safe from the secret saboteur who's already taken the life of Charlie's best friend. (17,000 words)
 

Love Phantom by Dawn Kravagna—University of Washington, 1983: A great place to get an education and meet single men. Drama major Kara Caldwell prefers to hide behind the characters in her plays, yet feels pressure to live up to the example set by her brave and witty grandmother, a veteran of WWII. Can she learn to overcome her reticence and prejudices to discover which guy truly cares for her--and who is just putting on an act? (17,000 words)
 

What’s Wrong with Mr. Perfect? by Sherri Shaw—No sooner did Chef Ivy Turin wish to meet the perfect man than Sam Rockney walked into her restaurant. But is the sexy Seattle quarterback for real or is there something wrong with Mr. Perfect? (17,000 words)
 

Shelter from the Storm by Clare Tisdale—Seven years and one broken heart later, JD Caldwell returns to Seattle to pick up the pieces of his old life, never imagining he will fall for Maya—the mysterious woman who lets him into her house and bed but keeps the door to her heart tightly closed. When their summer fling takes an unexpectedly serious turn and Maya gives him his walking papers, JD has to decide whether their love—and his legacy—is worth fighting for. (21,000 words)
 

Aftershocks by Kristine Cayne—When Seattle is struck by a devastating earthquake, technical rescue firefighter Jamie Caldwell must save his estranged wife and daughter from the wreckage of a collapsed building. He's defied the odds hundreds of times, but will his luck finally run out for good? (24, 000 words)

Top 10 Favorite Sexy Romances

Thank you, Arianne, for hosting the Romance in the Rain Book Tour on Provocative Pages. I've been asked to share my top ten favorite sexy romances. Here goes!

1. All Jacked Up by Lorelie James (Rough Riders)

I loved that the gender roles were somewhat reversed in this book. Lots of humor and great sex. 

2. Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James (Actually, I enjoyed the second and third one more than the first.)

From an author's perspective, I have to look at this book and consider all the things that E.L. James did right and not just the things she did wrong. FSOG discusses an alternate lifestyle in terms that are accessible to the average vanilla woman. The level of emotion is one not commonly found in erotic romances.

3. Trinity Bound by Carrie Ann Ryan

I loved this unconventional threesome brought together by a force outside themselves: a straight woman, a bisexual wolf, and a straight military man.How can they make it work? Very fun to read.

4. Rock Hard (The Sinners on Tour) by Olivia Cunning 

What can I say about this book besides lots of hot sex in very unusual places?

5. Revenge (Blood and Honor) by Dana Delamar

A deep, thrilling journey into the Italian Mafia. I loved the Italian themes, people forced to live within the codes of a long-standing organization, and the super sexy forbidden love that changes everything. 

6. Lord of Pleasure by Delilah Marvelle

A sex school in regency England? Hands-on demonstrations? Whoo-whoo! I loved every minute of this very untraditional romance.

7. Suddenly You by Lisa Kleypas

A thirty year old novelist who is firmly "on-the-shelf" falls in love with a younger man (publisher) when a madam sends him to her instead of a gigolo to end her virginity. Twists and turns abound in this trope-breaking story.

8. All Through the Night by Suzanne Brockmann 

One of the first M/M relationships I read and loved. The romance between Jules and Robin starts in Hot Target and continues as a secondary story line in the next books until All Through the Night where Robin and Jules take center stage to celebrate their marriage. 

9. The Black Dagger Brotherhood Series by J.R. Ward (I can't pick just one!)

I can't pick a favorite although I have a suspicion it's going to be Lover At Last (to be released in 2013). The Warden has a knack for twisting suspense and sexy romance, for writing super hot scenes that seem incredibly graphic even when they aren't. Emotions run high whenever I read one of her books.

10. Taking a Shot by Jaci Burton

This is just one example of Jaci's sports-themed books. I'm not much of a sports adept, but there is something to a man passionate about a sport, especially when that passion spills over into a relationship with a woman who can work her way past his alpha protective shell.

Readers: are any of these books on your list of favorite sexy romances? What's your all time favorite one?

Thank you for having me here to day! 

RAINY DAY WRITERS

Writing fiction is difficult and lonely and more often than not, the "normal" people in your life don't understand the writing process and can't fathom why you are possessed and obsessed with finding the perfect word or phrase that says exactly what you want to say right where you want to say it. Only other writers comprehend and accept that kind of torment.

To fill this need to surround herself with like-minded obsessive-compulsive self-doubting lunatics, in 2005, Marianne Stillings, who writes Romantic Suspense, established what came to be known as The Rainy Day Writers.

There were only two requirements for joining the group: You must be serious about writing and getting published, and any criticisms of co-members' work be honest, gentle, and kind.

Over the years, the membership has changed; some people moved on, others joined. The group we have now has been stable and constant since 2009. The Rainy Day Writers are a family.

Charlotte Russell joined the group in 2006 at the suggestion of a former member. Charlotte writes Historical Romance.

Dawn Kravagna became a member in the spring of 2007 because of a writers' list where Marianne had posted looking for new members. Dawn writes Comedy and Mystery.

In the Autumn of 2007, Sherri Shaw found her way to the group because she and Marianne happened to sit at the same table at the Emerald City Writer's Conference that year. Sherri writes Historical Romance and Paranormal Historical Romance.

Clare Tisdale joined in 2008 as the result of an email Marianne posted on the Greater Seattle Chapter Romance Writer's list seeking new members. Clare writes Contemporary Romance.

Kristine Cayne found the group in 2009 because she won Marianne's raffle basket at the Emerald City Writer's Conference that year. The basket included an offer to critique the winner's manuscript—an evaluation that resulted in an invitation to join. Kristine writes Romantic Suspense.

For more information on Romance in the Rain and the Rainy Day Writers, visit them at www.seattlerainydaywriters.com

Romance in the Rain Excerpts

Splendor in the Moss by Charlotte Russell

After telling the dog to stay, he steered her away from the Jensens’ cabin, towards the woods to the south. “Thank you.”

“For what?”

“Giving me the time of day. You were gone for such a long while, I wasn’t certain you’d come back.”

“I had to fight my better judgment.”

James laughed. He couldn’t put on airs around Mattie if he tried.

Final Approach by Marianne Stillings

"You were there." Caldwell's voice was quiet as though he were speaking to a timid child. He took a step toward her. "You saw it, didn't you. Didn't you, Charlie?" Another step. And another. Suddenly, he was standing before her and she was standing, too, and his arms came around her as she pressed her head against his strong shoulder and for the first time in a year, she felt safe. Safe enough to relive the agony—and let it go. Safe enough to let someone be strong—so she could be weak. Safe enough—to cry.

And so she did. 

What’s Wrong with Mr. Perfect? by Sherri Shaw

"Somehow I can’t picture you as a nerd.” You’re too perfect, Ivy silently added, fingering the amulet at her throat.  It hummed under her fingertips as the vendor’s words skated across her mind: If you truly want to find the perfect man, and restore your faith in true love, then this necklace will be your good luck talisman.” She dropped her hand, shaking off the crazy notion. It was merely a coincidence that she wished to meet the man of her dreams and Sam showed up. The necklace had nothing to do with it. Right?"

Shelter from the Storm by Clare Tisdale

A shadow crossed the window, and JD looked up in time to see a seagull fly by. Beyond the downtown high rises,  the waters of the Puget Sound lay brooding, glazed by morning mist. Much as JD hated starting over again, he realized that if he had to, he'd rather do it here than anywhere else. Seattle was his home; he belonged here.  Maya and her beach house had helped confirm that for him.

Aftershocks by Kristine Cayne

Adrenaline surging through her system, Erica hung onto the doorjamb as the quake rocked the old courthouse. The building swayed and groaned, windows rattled and shattered as the earth continued to tremble. Cracks raced across the ceiling and plaster dust showered down, covering everything in a thin white film. She’d lived in Seattle all her life but had never experienced a quake as powerful as this one.

And her daughter was all alone.

All giveaway ends November 22, 2012 at midnight. Make sure to only enter the giveaway you are eligible for.

Giveaway for US residents only.

Grand Prize:

- 1 autographed copy of Deadly Obsession + SWAG

- 1 autographed copy of Deadly Addiction + SWAG

- The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever, by Julia Quinn (autographed copy)

- Blood Trinity, by Sherrilyn Kenyon and Dianna Love

- 1 e-book copy of “Falling Angel” by Clare Tisdale

- 1 handmade shell necklace by Clare Tisdale

- A handmade afghan crocheted by Marianne Stillings

- 1 autographed copy of AROUSING SUSPICIONS

- 1 autographed copy of SATISFACTION

- 1 autographed copy of KILLER CHARMS

- 1 bag of truffles from Seattle Chocolates

- 3 chocolate bars from Seattle Chocolates

- $15 Starbucks gift card

- 1 autographed copy of Cattle Capers: Search For The MooMoo Pearl by Dawn Kravagna

Prize #5: 

- 1 ecopy Deadly Obsession by Kristine Cayne

- 1 print copy Accidental Cinderella, by Nancy Robards Thompson

- 1 print copy Everything I Know About Love I Learned From Romance Novels, by Sarah Wendell

Prize #6: 

- 1 ecopy Deadly Addiction by Kristine Cayne

- 1 print copy The Angel in My Arms, by Stephanie Sloane

- 1 print copy The Naughty List, by Donna Kauffman, Cynthia Eden and Susan Fox (autographed by Susan Fox)

Prize #7: 

- 1 ecopy Deadly Addiction by Kristine Cayne

- 1 print copy Tsunami Blue, by Gayle Ann Williams

- 1 print copy A Tale of Two Demon Slayers, by Angie Fox (autographed copy)

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Giveaway for both US and International residents.
Prize #1:

- 1 ecopy Deadly Obsession

- 1 ecopy of A Week to Be Wicked by Tessa Dare

- 1 ecopy of The Sergeant's Lady by Susanna Fraser

Prize #2:

- 1 ecopy Deadly Obsession

 - 1 ecopy of Unraveled by Courtney Milan

- 1 ecopy of Unlocked, a novella by Courtney Milan

Prize #3:

- 1 ecopy Deadly Obsession

- 1 ecopy of One Night in London by Caroline Linden

- 1 ecopy of Ruined by Rumor by Alyssa Everett

Prize #4:

- 1 ecopy Deadly Obsession

- 1 ecopy of Mr. Impossible by Loretta Chase

Prize #8-10:

- 1 ecopy Deadly Addiction

- $10 Amazon or B&N giftcard

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Prize #11 US and International Giveaway

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