First Kiss Friday – An Excerpt from “Country Boy” by A. E. Wasp

The first time Paul Dyson met Robbie Rhodes, they ended up naked in Robbie’s bed. The last time they met, on the ice the morning after, Paul punched Robbie in the face and called him something he’d rather not repeat.

Two years later, they’re teammates and Paul is so deep in the closet he'll need a roadmap to find his way out again.

Robbie might be his compass. But to be with Robbie, Paul will have to turn his back on his family and everything he’s ever believed in.

It’s going to take a lot of faith to find their way together in this shiny new world.

Country Boy is a love story about figuring out who you are, who you want to be, and how to get there. It contains sweet hockey plays, a 1976 Corvette Stingray, fancy underwear, and the journey of a lifetime.

Today on First Kiss Friday, we welcome romance author, A. E. Wasp, and an excerpt from her Male/Male Romance novel, “Country Boy (Hot Off the Ice Book 2).”

First Kiss Excerpt

He took a slap shot at the empty net, raising his arms to an imaginary crowd and giving an almost silent cheer. Skating slowly to retrieve the puck, he said. “If we wanna make the show, we’ve got to be the best. We got to push harder and want it more.” He tossed the puck on the ice in front of Robbie. “Do you want it more?”

“More than who?” Robbie stared into his eyes, hands resting on the top of his stick.

“More than anyone else does. More than you want anything else. Do you want it that much?”

Their eyes met, glittering in the harsh shadows of the bare lamp light. Finally, Robbie nodded. “Yeah. I do.”

Paul tilted his head. “Then let’s get to work.”

They skated hard for some indeterminate length of time Paul knew he would never forget. The world had narrowed down to a frozen space of biting cold air, moon shadows, and the sounds of metal blades carving through the ice.

As they sped down the ice, Robbie right on Paul’s tail, an owl broke out of the trees, swooping low over Paul’s head with a swish of feathers and an eerie hooting. “Dang,” Paul said, throwing up his arms and ducking.

“Oh, crap,” Robbie yelped right before he crashed into Paul. Down they went in a tangle of arms and legs.

Robbie landed on top of Paul, knocking the air out of his lungs. Paul’s first thought was that the parka did a great job of insulating him from the cold. The second was that having Robbie laying on top of him felt really good.

Robbie started to push away, and, Paul moved without thought, wrapping his arms around Robbie.

Robbie stopped, raising onto his elbows to stare Paul in the eyes. His eyes were such a warm brown. Paul’s breathing grew heavy, and he felt Robbie’s chest pressing against his with each exhalation.

He licked his dry lips, and Robbie’s eyes dropped to his mouth, then back to his eyes. “Can I kiss you?” Robbie asked quietly.

Paul’s muscles tightened, and his breath caught.

Mistaking his silence for a no, Robbie blushed and tried to pull away. Paul grabbed Robbie’s coat awkwardly, fingers clumsy beneath the thick gloves, and pulled him back down.

Robbie’s lips were cold, but his breath was warm as he kissed Paul gently. He lifted his head to check Paul’s reaction.

Oh, Paul thought. Oh. He raised his head off the ice to reach Robbie’s mouth.

Robbie kissed him again, harder this time, pushing him back down to the ice.

Paul whimpered at the feel of Robbie’s lips on his. When Robbie’s tongue flicked against the seam of his mouth, he opened willingly, letting the heat in. Robbie’s thick gloves thumped to the ground as he pulled them off without breaking the kiss.

Robbie shifted on top of him as he explored Paul’s mouth, aligning their bodies in a way that made Paul’s eyes roll back in his head even as the ice numbed his ass through his jeans.

Skates scratching against the ice, Paul bent his knees, clamping his thighs against Robbie’s sides.

Robbie took what he wanted from Paul, tilting his head to the side with a hand, and encouraging Paul to open up with sharp nips to his lips.

He pushed Paul’s head back with pressure on his chin, his mouth moving down the column of Paul’s neck as best as he could through the protective barrier of outerwear.

Paul panted through his open mouth as Robbie set his teeth on Paul’s skin and sucked, tongue flicking against the pulse in Paul’s neck. “Oh, fuck,” he moaned, hips rising of their own accord as his body fought for some friction.

For most of a decade, he’d imagined what it would feel like to be held down by a man, to feel someone strong and hard pressing against him, matching their strength to his. His imagination had not come close to reality.

Robbie pushed up onto his arms, forcing his body down onto Paul’s rapidly growing erection. The place where his mouth had been was suddenly freezing in the cold air. Paul’s head to toe shudder threatened to throw Robbie off. “Oh, God, oh, God,” Paul groaned. “Don’t stop.”

Robbie leaned down for a long hard kiss that stole the air from Paul’s lungs. He smiled as he looked at Paul. “If we don’t go inside, we’re going to freeze to death, stick to the ice, and Mrs. Pierson is going to find our bodies in the morning.” He jumped up and held a hand out to Robbie.

Paul couldn’t process what was happening as he let himself be pulled up. Was that it? Was it over? Would the kissing stop when they got inside? Please don’t let it stop. He needed it so badly. Needed to shut off his brain, just for tonight. Please.

Robbie skated off the rink and headed towards the door. Paul followed him.

“Country Boy (Hot Off the Ice Book 2)” is available through:

AMAZON

First Kiss Friday – An Excerpt from “Luke’s Redemption” by Anni Fife

Today on First Kiss Friday, we welcome romance author, Anni Fife, and an excerpt from her Steamy Contemporary Romantic Suspense novel, “Luke’s Redemption (A King Security Novel Book 1).” 


Red-hot sex. Searing betrayal. A passionate and elusive love…

Chased by her criminal kingpin father, Katya Dalca runs to New Orleans and straight into the arms of Luke Hunter. Sucked into the carnal world of the French Quarter, she succumbs to Luke’s potent sexuality. He not only steals her breath, he steals her heart, and the only leverage she has against her father. She’s left with no choice but to pick up the pieces and rebuild her life alone.

Undercover DEA agent Luke Hunter thought his newest assignment—recover a stolen flash drive to gain the trust of the Russian mob—was like any other. But his target brings him to his knees, and after one taste of her intoxicating beauty, he's in too deep. Doing his job means walking away, leaving his heart behind with nothing but a promise to reunite. It's a promise he can't keep.

When Katya's past reaches out and her world unravels, her only hope is the one man she is most vulnerable to—Luke.

First Kiss Excerpt

(Note: When Katya first meets Luke, he is operating undercover as Michael.)

And just when I thought it couldn’t get any hotter, the opening cords of Muddy Water’s “I Just Want To Make Love To You” slid over us with all of its sensual power. Michael turned me to face him and took the empty bourbon glass from my hand. I didn’t notice where he put it because both his arms wrapped around me and pulled me tight up against him. I went up on tiptoes to meet his descending mouth. And then, with the classic blues song thick in the air, he claimed me.

And it was a claiming!

His mouth fused with mine, and a place deep inside me unfurled in response. Waves of heat cascaded through me as his tongue swept into my mouth. It filled my senses and created a voracious need that I knew, with absolute certainty, only he could ever fill. I clung to his shirt when he pulled back slightly, feeling the warmth of his hand on my jaw. When his thumb feathered my cheek I forced my eyes open. I could feel his breath kiss my lips.

“Jesus, babe!” he whispered hoarsely.

I couldn’t speak.

His hand threaded into my hair, pulling my face impossibly closer and his lips settled back on mine. This time he went slower, our tongues endlessly entwining with each other. The people around us faded away as his kiss consumed me. I couldn’t get enough.

His taste was intoxicating.

Then he caught my lower lip between his teeth and bit me, gently. My knees sagged and he was forced to catch my weight, pressing me tightly to his body. His erection beneath his jeans pressed into me and wetness surged between my legs.

Oh God! Unable to stop myself I whimpered into his mouth.

His hand fisted my hair and he pulled my head back, not so gently. His eyes were liquid ink and he was breathing so deeply his nostrils were flaring. Completely ensnared, I was a willing partner to whatever he wanted to do with me.

“It’s time to go, baby.” His voice was deep and husky. “Come on.” He pulled me through the crowd and out on to the street. In the cool air, he removed his jacket and slipped it over my shoulders. It enveloped my much smaller frame and I pulled the leather around me, inhaling his spicy, masculine scent. It settled around me like a cocoon. And I felt safe. Protected.

“Luke’s Redemption” is available through:

AMAZON

iTUNES

BARNES& NOBLE

If you’d like to read more Excerpts from “Luke’s Redemption,” visit Anni’s Website

Meet the Characters - An Interview with Claire from “Three Days” by Cynthia W. Gentry

Today we’re talking to Claire, from “Three Days,” an Erotic Ménage Romance by Cynthia W. Gentry. Let’s get started. I’m sure our readers are eager to learn more about you.

How old are you?

I’m 34 years old.

What is your relationship status?

That’s an interesting question. I’ve been dating my boyfriend, Trey, for four years. But not too long ago, I tagged along on one of Trey’s business trips—he was trying to raise money for the nonprofit foundation he works for—to do research for a magazine article, and we met Rich. I’m not sure yet what role he’ll play in our lives.

When you look in the mirror, what do you see?

I’m 5 feet 8 inches tall. I’ve always been self-conscious about my height. Sometimes I feel like a large clumsy Amazon! I have long, wavy brown hair that falls below my shoulders, and very dark brown eyes. I have a straight nose and full lips (I’ll never need collagen injections, not that I would get them!). I’m a (not very fast) runner, and while I’m not overweight, I’m not skin-and-bones either. I love good food and wine! Like many women, I’m self-conscious about my butt, even though Trey is constantly telling me how much he likes it. I guess I would describe my figure as “slender with some curves.”

What is people’s first impression of you?

People have told me that when they met me, they thought I was smart, intense, and funny. Rich told me that I seemed very self-sufficient. Little did he know!

How do people who know you well describe you?

I’m often told that I’m “Type A.” It’s true that I have a hard time relaxing, and I’m (secretly) very competitive. I spend a lot of time in my head, and sometimes I overthink situations. That’s pretty typical for someone who grew up with her nose always in a book, I guess. When I’m with Rich, though, I can stop thinking, and that’s very seductive to me. I don’t quite understand it.

Whether it’s a relationship or an article I’m writing, I’m very persistent, which sometimes drives my boss—and Trey—crazy!

What do you do for a living?

I work for a prominent San Francisco “media group” that owns a bunch of websites and a dying print magazine. They hired me from my soon-to-be obsolete reporter job to be a “content creator,” which is today’s fancy word for a “writer who also thinks up topics for articles.”

And can I just say how much I’m enjoying being on the other side of an interview? Usually I’m the one asking questions!

What’s your favorite drink?

That would be a tie between red Zinfandel and single malt scotch whiskey, which isn’t very feminine, but I don’t care.

Do you see morality as black-and-white, or with shades of gray?

As a journalist, I’ve seen all kinds of human behavior. There are some absolutes when it comes to morality, but more often, there are definitely shades of gray, especially when it comes to relationships.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

Oh, I wish I were a morning person, but I have to admit that I’m a night owl, especially when I’m reading a good book.

What kinds of things do you always carry (in pockets or purse)?

I always carry some cash, a brush, and lipstick or lip balm, because my lips always seem to be chapped. And pens—I’m a journalist, so I always make sure I have something to write with.

Are you close to family?

No. My mother died many years ago. I talk to my father every once in a while. I love him, but we’re not close.

What is your most prized possession?

A first edition of Anna Quindlen’s novel One True Thing. Her writing and journalism is superb.

What inner doubt causes you the most difficulty?

Insecurity: about my looks, my abilities, you name it. I work really hard to hide it. I never feel like I’m quite good enough.

Name three things that tick you off.

People who talk too much and don’t listen. Rudeness. And unmerited arrogance. I see way too much of all three in San Francisco and Silicon Valley.  

What was your first impression of your love interest?

Ha! In my case, it’s love interests, plural. When I first met Trey four years ago, I thought he was a gorgeous but dumb jock, but he dispelled that impression within 30 seconds with his wit, intelligence and caring. And Rich…He’s one of the most beautiful men I’ve ever seen. Sapphire-blue eyes; dark, almost black hair swept back from his forehead; cheekbones that could cut ice. I was shy with him at first, as I usually am with extremely handsome men but then I stared to relax. He got me laughing with his bone-dry sense of humor.

What would make you completely happy?

If Trey and Rich and I could make our unconventional relationship work. I can’t see my life without either of them.

“Three Days” is available through:

UNBOUND - Read the first chapter of Three Days free on Unbound

AMAZON FRANCE (in French)

ENGLISH LANGUAGE:

The English-language print and e-book rights to Three Days are still available. Please contact Holly Schmidt or Linda Biagi for more information.

First Kiss Friday – An Excerpt from “Three Days” by Cynthia W. Gentry

Today on First Kiss Friday, we welcome romance author, Cynthia W. Gentry, and an excerpt from her Erotic Ménage Romance novel, “Three Days.”

Claire, 34, seems to have it all: a great job writing for a prominent San Francisco magazine and a hunky-yet-Harvard-smart boyfriend, Trey. But in fact, Claire suffers from a bad case of writer’s block, and her relationship with Trey has become more roommate than lover.

On a trip to New York, where their hotel unexpectedly gives them a suite, Trey makes one of Claire’s wildest sexual fantasies—a threesome—come true with the help of the mysterious Rich, a male escort. The connection between Claire and Rich is instant and electric.

Once she and Trey return home, Claire can’t stop thinking about Rich, who has awakened her dormant libido and her long-repressed desire to be sexually dominated. Unfortunately, Trey can’t stop thinking about the evening either, and breaks up with Claire, though each loves the other deeply.

When Rich shows up in San Francisco, Claire is drawn into a dangerous sensual journey that tests her limits and culminates over three erotic days. Will she have to choose between her love for Trey and her obsession with Rich, and make a decision that could tear her heart in two?

First Kiss Except

I lead them in to the suite’s living area. Trey rolls his eyes toward the bedroom and grins.  I feel my face getting warm as I reach past him to pull the door shut.

“The mini-bar is that way,” I tell them. I stick with tequila. Rich and Trey pour themselves scotch from tiny bottles. I try not to think about the bill. I’m suddenly very thirsty, and Rich goes to get ice. While he’s gone, Trey sits down on an armchair and stretches his legs out on the ottoman.

“Come here,” he says. I squeeze into the chair with him. He looks into my eyes. “It’s good to travel with you. Every time we do, I’m reminded of what a hottie you are. Don’t make that face. You are. I see how guys look at you.”

“Huh. I see more women looking at you.”

There’s a long pause. My mind is suddenly blank.

“Kiss me,” he says.

My heart begins pounding. This is ridiculous. I know this guy like the back of my hand.

“No tongue. Rich will be back any second.”

“Sure. No tongue.”

I tilt my head up and let him kiss me. At first he keeps his lips closed. Then his tongue slips between my lips. The heady, peaty fragrance of scotch fills my mouth.

“You said no tongue,” I say, but I don’t pull my head away.

“I lied,” he answers, and keeps going. I’d forgotten what a good kisser he is. Then I hear the click of the lock and the door. Rich.

I pull away from Trey, embarrassed. “Sorry, Rich.” But Trey doesn’t let me go and Rich only smiles.

“Don’t worry about it. It looked like fun.” He pours me a glass of water, which he sets on the coffee table. He sits down on the ottoman, near our feet.

“It is fun,” Trey says. “She’s a good kisser.” He turns to me. “Rich broke up with his girlfriend recently.” If this is calculated to get my sympathy, it works.

“Oh God,” I say. “Then you don’t need to watch us kissing.” I try again to pull away, but Trey doesn’t break his grip.

“Yes, I do,” Rich says.

At times like these, there comes a moment when we make decisions. To decide whether to stay with what is familiar and tell ourselves that we are being good, or to go with the unknown. And though I don’t consciously know it, it’s at this moment that I’ve chosen the latter.

“There’s only one problem,” I hear Rich say. Trey and I are kissing deeply now. He has pulled me closer to him. I’m letting him stroke my back, my ass. At Rich’s words, we stop and look at him.

“I’m sitting here thinking how much I’d like to be kissing those beautiful lips myself.” His words are catnip to me. I’m already wet between my legs, now I feel my lower lips fill with warmth, soften and open. My heart thuds in my chest. Can’t they hear it? I pull away from Trey and sit at the edge of the chair.

This man is a source, the fast-receding professional part of my mind tells me. Or is he? There’s something going on that I don’t quite understand.

I look at Trey. I have a feeling he’s on his way to being drunk. And so was I, but now I feel stone-cold sober.

“Go for it,” he whispers, his voice husky. “Kiss him.”

I picture myself as supremely benevolent, the Queen of Kisses, bestowing them out of charity and goodwill. I take Rich’s face between my hands and lean forward. My lips meet his and I’ve made another decision.

I start to really kiss him, my tongue searching out his, but he says, “Wait. Slow down.” He puts a hand on my cheek and kisses me gently with his lips closed, and then again. With each new kiss, he begins to slip his tongue a little further between my lips. We begin kissing deeply, his tongue playing with mine. Finally, I pull away.

“There,” I say. “How was that? Do you feel more included now?”

He smiles. “Trey is right. You are a good kisser. I’d like to kiss you again.”

“Don’t stop on my account,” Trey says. “Claire knows that I like to watch.” I do? He does? I push the thought away. We shift our positions so that I’m sitting on the edge of the chair with my back toward him, his legs on either side of me. He puts his hands on my hips…

“Three Days” is available through:

UNBOUND - Read the first chapter of Three Days free on Unbound

AMAZON FRANCE (in French)

ENGLISH LANGUAGE:

The English-language print and e-book rights to Three Days are still available. Please contact Holly Schmidt or Linda Biagi for more information.

First Kiss Friday – An Excerpt from “An Inn Decent Proposal” by Sharon Buchbinder

Today on First Kiss Friday, we welcome romance author, Sharon Buchbinder, and an excerpt from her Contemporary, Small Town, Romantic Suspense novel, “An Inn Decent Proposal.”

Jim Rawlings takes the biggest chance of his life—bidding at auction for a once-grand inn. Genie King attends the hotel auction, never expecting another LBC employee to bid at the sale—much less the guy she had a major crush on in high school. Working together means Jim must share long-hidden secrets. Will Genie reject the man with a past? Or will she love the man he's become?

First Kiss Excerpt

Genie nodded. “I swore off romance for a while. Became best-friends-forevah with every gay guy in New York City. Lots of great shopping stories.” She sipped her wine. “Fell like King Kong diving off the Empire State Building for my new executive chef at Asiatique. Man, was he hot.” She fanned herself.

A flash of jealousy surprised him. “And?”

“Hot, as in attractive and hot as in temper. As in throwing dishes, pots, anything at hand.” Genie shook her head. “He’s French—and as explosive as a volcano! I tried to leave the job the day after he threw an iron skillet, missed me, and dented the wall. I picked it up and threw it back at him.” She dusted her hands off. “The bastard blackballed me. Made sure I couldn’t leave. He threatened every high end restaurant owner in New York State, telling them he’d sue them for stealing his sous chef. No one would touch me with a flame proof oven mitt. My only way out was to start my own business. He’s the reason I’m here.”

Jim reached over and grabbed her hand. Heat pulsed off her palm. “What’s his address? I’ll send him a thank-you note.”

She stood and gave him a Mona Lisa smile. “Save your thanks for when you’re done with dinner.”

That was definitely a come-on. He admired her lovely derriere as she swayed past him to the kitchen.

As dusk fell, they moved into the dining room. She had placed the roses in a vase and set them on the buffet to the side. The table was set for two with fine china and glassware. Everything sparkled in the candlelight. She held a chair out for Jim, and once again placed a napkin on his lap, this time drawing out the ritual a tad longer. She was killing him. She breathed into his ear, sending frissons down his neck. “I hope you like the next course.”

Just to have something to hold onto—other than her—he clenched a soup spoon. And a white dish appeared in front of him in the center of which were large chunks of—

“Rich lobster soup with curry.” She poured a thick pink liquid around the lumps of shellfish.

Exotic scents rose on the steam grabbing his olfactory lobe, taking his brain to a new plane of existence. “Oh. My. God.”

“Some have likened my food to a religious experience.”

The lobster swam in the smooth soup with a hint of curry while his taste buds danced and sang hallelujah, hallelujah. “Any chance I could get this for dessert?”

She took her apron off and sat down. “Not tonight. I have other plans.”

The low cut lace top left little to Jim’s imagination. Torn between appetites, he wondered if there was an intermezzo. He needed to clear his palate—and knew just who he wanted to do it with.

“Are you enjoying your soup?”

“What? Yes. Very much.” He tore his gaze away from her breasts.

“Mind if we talk a little business?”

Only if it’s monkey business. “Sure.” He put his spoon down.

“I think we’d better have a lawyer check out Beth’s paperwork.”

After she told him about the odd conversation with the realtor in the grocery store, he raised one eyebrow. “She said he was from New Jersey?”

“Wearing a look on her face that implied he came out of a sewer. Not that I disagree with that assessment.”

“I have some experience with that state.” Jim rubbed his eyebrow. “Yes, we should get legal counsel. And we need to draw up some partnership papers, too.”

“Good idea.” She smiled, stood, and brushed her hand along his as she collected his dish. “Ready for your next course?”

She had no idea how ready he was.

Genie disappeared into the kitchen, then stuck her head back into the dining room. “Would you pour the wine for our next course, please?”

He lifted the decanter. The nose on the wine was outstanding. What was it? French? Californian?

She returned with two plates and placed them on the table. “Grilled lamb chops, pomegranate-and-saffron basmati rice.”

Jim closed his eyes and inhaled the aromas of lamb, the rich red fruit, and scented rice. Heaven. He was in heaven. “What kind of wine is this?”

“Cabernet—Robert Mondavi Reserve.”

He eyed her breasts and sipped his wine. “A perfect pair. Er—pairing.”

She covered her mouth with her napkin, but the crinkles around her eyes gave her away.

He savored every bite, gnawing at the bones until it looked as if they’d been dipped in acid. Then he licked his fingers clean. He glanced up and caught her watching him, a smile hovering on her lush red lips. Embarrassed, he wiped his fingers on the napkin. “I couldn’t help myself. The best lamb chops I’ve ever had.”

“Think you can handle dessert?”

His groin responded before he could open his mouth. “Depends on what we’re having.”

“A simple one—hot fudge sundae.”

He groaned and his erection demanded to be attended to. He slipped off his chair, onto his knees and clasped his hands together. “Please, please, please, may I have dessert?”

“Now do you admit that my cooking makes men weak at the knees?”

He crawled to her chair, reached up and pulled her face down to his then slanted his mouth over hers. “Yes,” he breathed. “You were right. You have made my knees weak.” He pressed his lips against hers and she responded, opening her mouth. She tasted like pomegranates. He wanted more of her flavors. Now.

“An Inn Decent Proposal” is available through:

AMAZON

Meet the Characters - An Interview with Dr. Holly Babson from “Order of Malice” by Lisa Caviness

Today we’re talking to Dr. Holly Babson, from “Order of Malice,” a Romantic Thriller by Lisa Caviness. I understand that you’re a child psychologist. Let’s get started. I’m sure our readers are eager to learn more about you.

Do you care about what others assume about you?

Holly swallowed hard. “I hate to admit it, but yes.” She leaned forward and lowered her voice. “My father is an escaped convict. People judge. In my professional life, I’d prefer not to have my clients and colleagues question my background. I have deep and horrifying experiences in my past. I’ve learned over the years that keeping my family history private is much better than being pitied and having people assume I’m cut from the same cloth as other family members.”

Are you close to family?

“Absolutely!” Her expression brightened. “The twins and I went to live with my grandparents after my sister, Bethany died. They gave us a stable and loving home. My grandfather passed away several years ago but Gran is still going strong. The twins are now in college and we all are very close. My father sometimes contacts me, and although I worked with the police to aid in his capture, he lobs threats to hurt the twins or Gran. He’s an evil man. I’d do anything to protect my family.”

If someone from your past showed up, who would you most want it to be, and why?

Holly pulled at her lip while she ran her finger around the rim of her coffee mug. “I’d love to see and talk to my older sister, Bethany. We were very close. I remember the fun times we shared as sisters. We’d pretend to be other people in different lives or daydream about our futures. I could tell her anything. She was…” Her voice shook. “I miss her.”

If someone from your past showed up, who would you most NOT want it to be, and why?

The easy answer would be my father but I’d have to say, my mother. “She pushed a brown curly strand of hair away from her face. “She’s dead now but she was a complicated, unhappy person. Her children rarely saw the best side of her. I can remember on one hand the times I felt like my mother was actually present with Bethany and me, but by the time the twins came along those times were in the past. The twins didn’t have a chance to experience any semblance of the deep affection only a mother can provide. Maybe, I need to work through those issues, but she hurt me more than anyone.” Her voice softened. “Perhaps she was another victim of my father’s destruction.”

Describe a typical Friday night.

“I don’t date much. There’s hasn’t been anyone I wanted to trade my time for, until... I just met him.” She suppressed a smile. “Anyway, my roommate and I love movies and romance novels so many nights we’ll stay up reading, discussing books, or watching television. Although occasionally I’ll have a date or we’ll go out clubbing but sometimes, a book or a movie is a better option.”

What is your favorite food?

“Cooking and baking relax me. My favorite food is homemade cinnamon bread. I know carbs, but yum! The smell of fresh bread is almost as good as eating it.”

What would make you completely happy?

“If I could choose my happiness, I’d have an Earth shattering love with the man of my dreams. We’d live on the beach in a cute little house with an amazing kitchen and a den filled with books. We’d have two kids and a dog. I don’t need a ton of money or a huge house—just a great love and happy family. I’d also like to see the twins happy, thriving in their careers, and with their special people.”

If you had a free day with no responsibilities and your only mission was to enjoy yourself, what would you do?

“I’d bake something special I’ve been dying to try.” She smiled. “Then I’d take my creation and spend a few hours with Gran and the twins. For the remainder of the day, I’d hike the Virginia mountain trails with my best friend and watch the sunset.” She nodded. “Quieting my thoughts—now that would be a perfect day.”

Name three things that tick you off.

Holly focused on her hands and twirled her ring before answering. “Deceit, lies, and clutter.”

What was your first impression of your love interest?

Holly twirled her napkin. “I met Reid after tracking a missing teen, one of my patient’s, to his home. I discovered Reid was her uncle.

If this guy put a finger on Lila, I’ll have him tossed in jail so damn fast his… Holly couldn’t come up with an action as she stared at the hot guy in front of her. His pectoral muscles bulged against the Star Trek T-shirt. Original Star Trek, which gave him even more kudos. But she wasn’t here to ogle.

“Order of Malice” is available through:

AMAZON

IBOOKS

SMASHWORDS

KOBO

BARNES& NOBLE

Holly has dedicated her life to helping children, and that means she makes herself available day or night. When she’s not aiding endangered children, Holly has her own demons. She dreams of a life where her escaped convict father and the memories of her sister’s horrific death are both locked away. While helping a runaway teen, death returns to her doorstep, revealing the teen’s connection to The Order, a cult-like organization bent on using the teen for its malicious deeds. Further complicating matters, Holly meets the teen’s uncle, Reid Patterson. While her head urges her to run the other way, her heart pulls her toward Reid. As her past, her fears, and her heart are locked in vicious turmoil, Holly, along with Reid, must battle mysterious forces or face deadly consequences. 

First Kiss Friday – An Excerpt from “Planting the Seeds of Love” by N. N. Light

Today on First Kiss Friday, we welcome romance author, N. N. Light - a husband and wife writing team - and an excerpt from their Contemporary Romance novella, “Planting the Seeds of Love.”

Torn between two men, Sally must follow her heart and decide if love will lead her to the city or the countryside.

Twenty-Two year old Sally Rayton returns to the family farm she deserted four years ago to bury her grandfather. Her plan: to settle her grandfather's estate and return to her life in the city with her boyfriend, Trevor Mattson.

Her childhood friend, Jack Smith, has other ideas.

Jack convinces Sally to transform the farm into a brewery and fulfill her grandfather's dream while keeping the Rayton Farm in the family. Sally works side-by-side with Jack while Trevor is hundreds of miles away in the city. The more time she spends with Jack, the stronger her feelings are for him.

When Trevor shows up to propose to Sally right before Christmas and finds her in Jack's embrace, she must make the biggest choice of her life: true love.

First Kiss Excerpt

Jack nodded and sat down, never breaking his intense gaze with Sally.

"Oh, God. Sally, are you okay? Doc called and told me what happened." His voiced cracked. He ran his fingers through his unkempt hair.

"Jack, I'm scared," she whispered. Tears spilled down her cheeks; she didn't bother to wipe them away.

He leaned forward and wiped her damp cheeks.

"Don't cry, Princess Sally, or else the king will be very upset." Humor crept into his voice, although it didn't reach his eyes.

When they were little, they would play castle make-believe. She was the princess and he was her knight in shining armor. As a knight, he would fight dragons and other beasts all in her name. He would rescue her from bad people and return her to safety. At the end of their game, he would say the same line.

Sally rubbed her eyes with her good hand.

"Oh Jack...I know how worried you are."

Jack snorted.

"You'll be the death of me yet, Sally Rayton." He pointed to his thick brown hair. "Look, in the past 48 hours I've grown grey hair."

"Imagine that," she teased. The corners of her mouth turned upwards. "Whatever will become of your flock of admirers?"

He chuckled before he turned serious.

"I want to hear it from you." His eyes bore into hers.

"Hear what?"

His hand squeezed hers.

"Tell me everything you remember. Don't hold back from me. Please, I beg you." Sally watched his jaw tense.

She nodded.

"I was having breakfast, wondering what happened to you." She stared at him. He looked away for a moment.

"I was busy trying to run the farm, brewery and not rip off Al's head when I dropped off Linda."

"Al was there? Did you talk to him?" she asked.

"I'll tell you later." He nodded. "Keep going."

"Anyway," she sighed. "I wasn't hungry so I pushed my food away. I was thinking about the farm and Grandpa when I suddenly got a sharp pain."

He squeezed her hand tighter.

"I tried to flex my fingers, thinking it was a cramp..."

"Was it?" he interrupted.

Sally shook her head.

"No, in fact it only made it worse. Trevor came into the room, I remember." She paused, trying to make her memories return. "C'mon brain, work!" She shut her eyes.

His thumb caressed her hand. Sparks flew up her arm, causing her heart to skip a beat.

"It's okay, just relax. Take a deep breath and try again," his husky voice soothed her nerves.

She regarded him through her lashes. His breath was uneven, just like hers. I want him to kiss me. His touch lights my insides on fire. Imagine what his lips could do. She wet her lips in anticipation.

His hooded eyes lit with desire. As if in a trance, he leaned forward and kissed her. His soft lips brushed hers so tenderly; it was as if he was waiting for her to pull away. She didn't. She opened her mouth, deepening the kiss. He moaned, kissing her passionately.

"Oh, excuse me," Doc interrupted.

Jack yanked his lips away so quick, Sally whimpered. Jack turned to greet Doc with a grin.

Doc chuckled.

"I guess I should've knocked first."

Sally flushed and exchanged sheepish looks with Jack. She sat up and straightened her sheets, as if that was the most important thing she should be doing. She bent her head, touching her swollen lips. So, that's what it feels like.

"What's up, Doc?" Jack asked.

Sally glanced up at the old joke. Doc's face turned serious.

“Planting the Seeds of Love” is available through:

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First Kiss Friday – An Excerpt from “Bedeviled” by Madison Michael

Today on First Kiss Friday, we welcome romance author, Madison Michael, and an excerpt from her Steamy Contemporary Romance novel, “Bedeviled,” Book 3 of The Beguiling Bachelor Series

Charlotte Roche is escaping a menacing threat in Boston when she moves to Chicago for a new job and a new man. Alex is smart, sexy and quickly getting under Charlotte’s skin. A shared love of running gives the sassy beauty an excuse to be near her heart’s desire, but can Charlotte run Alex from the track to the bedroom without divulging her past and risking everything?

Alex Gaines, wealthy banker and philanthropist, has held women at arm’s length all his life to protect long-held secrets of his own. Now he is torn between loving the alluring Charlotte and protecting his dual lives. Can Alex trust Charlotte with the truth or is risking his fortune and family to pursue her? Can the two fall in love when they are bedeviled by lies and half-truths?

When danger follows Charlotte to Chicago threatening her safety and their futures, Charlotte and Alex a forced to make a hard decision – choose the secrets of their past or a future together.

First Kiss Excerpt

“Well, goodnight,” Charlotte finally said shyly.

“Good night, Charlotte,” Alex replied. He bent to turn out the bedside lamp, but instead he leaned over her prone body, carefully bracing his hands on either side of her head, and hesitated with his face only inches from hers. She could feel his breath on her skin, warm with the lingering scent of chardonnay.

She locked onto his eyes, marine blue and questioning. He must have gotten the answer he was seeking because his head lowered and she felt the faintest whisper of his lips against hers. It was the softest, swiftest kiss and yet she felt her body respond. He pulled back, again seeking answers, or acquiescence. Her eyes were wide as saucers. He had surprised her with the kiss and her body had surprised her with its swift response. Mesmerized, craving more, she lowered her sooty lashes slowly then opened them again in an age-old sign of invitation. Alex’s eyes blazed.

Lowering his mouth to Charlotte’s, Alex kissed her again but this claiming of her mouth and body was nothing like the previous soft foray. She felt the strong pressure of his lips on hers, the rasp of his tongue demanding her response, probing her to open to him. Heat oozed into her sore muscles turning her body to warm liquid as her heart pounded in her chest. His tongue explored her mouth, capturing hers in a dance suggestive of so much more. She tasted Alex, all dark and mysterious, moist and inviting and gave him what he sought.

“You taste like heaven,” he whispered, moist and intimate in her ear. “I should have done that ages ago. Now, I want to do so much more, Charlotte. So much more.”

“Mm,” she responded, “me too, Alex.”

He dipped his mouth to hers once more and she felt the velvety touch of his lips before he took hers hungrily. Shockwaves of lust rocketed straight to her core. She kissed him back, passionately and completely as his strong lips moved against her softer ones. She felt her body rising up to meet his, felt her mouth insistent for more. She reveled in the taste of him, the feel of his tongue tangling with hers. The more he gave, the more she took and gave in return. Their bodies touched only at their lips but the heat from him was as powerful as if they were naked and glued to each other from head to toe. The man could definitely kiss.

The kiss lasted only a minute, but it changed everything. She could never be the same. Now she knew how he felt, how he tasted. She needed more and he seemed to as well. They had taken the next step and couldn’t take it back. He finally saw her as a woman and Charlotte was heady with power and weak with desire.

A hint of a soft breath moved through her hair. “Sleep now, Charlotte. Get well soon.” He reached and turned off the light, pushed a stray hair away from her face in the dim light from the covered windows and left the room. She watched the shadow of his lean frame backlit from the hall and she wanted him with an overpowering hunger. Then he was gone.

She willed him to come back, lay with her and hold her through the night. She longed for the feel of him beside her, his strength keeping her ghosts at bay. She wanted to wrap herself around him and pull him into her body.

All that from a kiss. Maybe I just should have been injured sooner. If I had known what a good kisser he would be…

Charlotte forgot all about her injuries and focused on the power of that drugging kiss. Snuggling deeper into the soft Egyptian cotton, she drifted into a deep and dreamless sleep.

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