I’m happy to announce that the sequel for The Guardian’s Heart is set to release March 2014 from Secret Cravings Publishing.  Over the next year to year and a half you’ll get to know all the girls of Growing Strong Montessori.  Mary Beth’s book, The Cheated Heart, is my March book. Followed by Sarah, then Mandy.

            Here’s where the promises come in.  When I wrote The Guardian’s Heart it was supposed to be a short story for an anthology.  I over shot the maximum word count by over thirty-five thousand words.  When began writing The Guardian’s Heart I didn’t plot out for a series, if I would have Sarah would not have been a lesbian. I might have just left her out all together. Although she’s integral to the story line and now I couldn’t imagine not having her as part of group stepping out of a comfort zone is scary. And writing an f/f book is out of my comfort zone, but at one time writing in third person was out of my comfort zone, but as a writer taking chances and stretching my writing muscles only makes me stronger.

            Part of the reason book two took so long to write was because once I wrote Mary Beth’s book I committed myself to writing Sarah and Mandy’s. I wasn’t going to start something I couldn’t finish with the same zeal I did The Guardian’s Heart. People helped me brain storm with some encouraging me while others made suggestions to either not have a Sarah story at all, she does have a loving girlfriend in book one.  Or have Sarah end up with a man because she was “going through a phase.”

            Here comes promise number two and three really, I wasn’t going to insult my audience that way. Sarah is one of the four owners and part of the best friend group that has been lovingly nicknamed the Growing Strong Mafia. To not have her story would be a slap in the face to my readers. And the second suggestion again is an insult to my readers.  I recently read a book in a series where the character was a gay man until it was time for his love story then suddenly “he’d been faking”.  Sure the author spun a pretty good tale about why and his love of a woman, but if it wasn’t for the fact I had a long drive and no more Audible credits I may not have finished the book because it was like a spit in my face as a reader.

            What scared me you may ask? The love story I wasn’t worried about it was just the lifestyle in general.  I hate stereotypes and every subculture has their own way of being. This is where my trepidation came in. Can I accurately portray a lifestyle I don’t live? Other writers can kill people, create horrific beasts or even write about things they don’t live. There are very few writers that are also on death row because they know how to murder someone in cold blood so I guess the answer is yes. 

            When you start writing it’s all about ‘writing what you know’ then you can expand.  I’m a great researcher, heck my Bachelors is in History, but the last thing I would ever want to do in my books is to portray a character unrealistically. Then I bit the bullet because when it came down to it I write love stories.  Those stories are about two people that usually have to over come an obstacle to make their love work.  That I could do, the other stuff, it like Sarah and Karen’s love, will work itself out and I promise you I will not waiver on the quality or zeal for which I write.

Blurb:

New York City, a romance conference, two established erotic romance writers meet and venture into another world, the world of BDSM.

She’s finally confident and sexy, after years of self-doubt. He’s found a partner he can be dominant with and now wants more. He wants her love. She’s fallen hard. He wants to own her. She needs to belong to him completely.

Not even two countries and thousands of miles can keep two hearts from each other. Nor can it keep them from the strongest bonds of love, leaving the vanilla world behind.

In a decadent purple dungeon on the Upper East Side of New York City two people connect. They discover they have the same hidden desires and fall in love.

EXCERPT: Bonds of Love

Leighton had been quite specific about how I was to be dressed tonight. What he asked me to wear was deliciously decadent. First, he emphasized the color black. Next he requested some black sexy underwear, black heels at least three inches tall, a garter belt, and something black and clingy. I meant to deliver and had my purchases in my hands as I left the shopping mall.

I’d gone on line snooping around at the BDSM clubs in my area. I’d never seek out one of these clubs alone. I wasn’t even sure I’d like going to this dungeon or playroom. However, with him this seemed all right, natural and arousing. My anticipation level was high, very high. Tonight was all I could think about.

I was to meet him at the same hotel bar at eight tonight. When I entered, he sat at the bar in black trousers and black raw silk shirt. I noticed his socks and shoes were black setting off his rugged goods looks and weakening me in the knees. I was in deep trouble. No man had ever affected me the way he was. I found myself gripping the leather banister around the bar. Then he smiled. I lost my breath and my heart began to pump wildly in my chest. He excited me and so did the little adventure he had planned. I was on my way to my first dungeon. I was already wet with anticipation.

“I have a limo waiting for us. We’ll have dinner with my friends, then we’ll play.”

“Play?”

“Yes, baby, from the minute that gin and tonic splashed on me and my eyes beheld your lovely face, playing with you is the first scenario that came to my mind. The next scenario involved making you cum, watching you cum, and controlling you. Then I fucked you, watched my dick slide inside of you. Yes, baby, I want to play with you all night.” His tall body closed in on me, he let his breath caress the tops of my breasts the cleavage ample and licentious.

I shivered at his words. I’d go with him. I’d experience what he had to offer. For the first time in my life I was letting go, allowing my inhibitions to run free. I hoped he’d enjoy the lacey number I had on, black and sexy, as he requested. My pussy was wet, my mouth numb and my libido off the wall. Yet being with him gave me a strong sense of security, a need to relinquish all that I was to him. I knew I’d call him Sir tonight.

Thank you  Michel Prince

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Blurb:

A SPECIAL KIND OF LOVE

Through Fights and Fire, Prejudice and Passion, Burns A Special Kind of Love

A divorced school teacher, estranged from her family, wants to start over. Sharon Daily moves to Gaines, Wyoming with her ten year old autistic son, Aaron. She hoped to find kindness and acceptance in this small town. She wasn’t looking for love…

Tanner West, the Fire Chief of Gaines, seems to have it all. Great job, loving family, and any woman he wants to warm his bed at night. But, Tanner has suffered too. A Native American in a white world, he longs to find love and acceptance. He is ready for more than someone to share his bed. He wants someone to share his life. And Sharon really lights his fire.

Making a life with Sharon will require A Special Kind of Love.

Excerpt One:

Sharon looked up into the most gorgeous face she had ever seen. Eyes like dark chocolate, deep and warm, stared out at her from a face that looked like it could have been chiseled in stone. Skin the color of burnished copper, high cheekbones, a sharp nose, full lips, and a cleft chin. How the hell had she failed to notice him before? Her heart skipped a beat and she ran her gaze down the rest of his body. He was tall, well over six feet, she would guess, with broad shoulders that tapered into a trim waist. His thighs, encased in worn denim, fit like a second skin against legs the size of tree trunks, and oh my, what lay between those thighs… Her attention snapped back to his face and she could feel the heat of a blush suffuse her skin.

Tanner cleared his throat, his dark chocolate eyes flashing with amusement and a little heat. He extended his hand. His large calloused hand engulfed her small one. A shock of sensation shot up her arm and down her body to some places she had begun to think had stopped working long ago.

“Ma’am,” he said.

What the hell was with everyone calling her ma’am here? She was beginning to feel like an old lady.

“Call me Sharon, please. It’s nice to meet you, Mr. West.”

“Well now, if I’m gonna call you Sharon, then you’re gonna have to call me Tanner.”

Their gazes locked and everything around her faded away. Feelings she had thought were lost with the defection of her ex-husband surged to the forefront. Attraction, lust, a deep loneliness, and desire to be held in those strong arms. Aaron interrupted her reverie and snapped her back to the present in a heartbeat.

“I want to see the horses, now!” he demanded.

Excerpt Two:

“Hello?”

“Hi, beautiful.”

The deep baritone of his voice rolled over her skin like a caress. She felt hot and cold at the same time and goose bumps crawled down her spine. She was in such big trouble.

“I didn’t expect to hear from you so soon,” she cooed.

“I don’t want to scare you off, but I really had a great time today. I want to get to know you better. I thought Aaron would be asleep by now and we could talk.”

“He is…asleep I mean. What do you want to talk about?”

“Where are you?”

“Um, I’m in bed.”

“Oh, man, now I have that visual in my head. I’ve been dreaming about you in bed. In my bed.”

Dang this man was coming on strong. But I kind of like it.

“Really? You are a naughty boy.”

“You have no idea. What are you wearing?”

Sharon laughed. “Sorry to ruin your fantasies, big boy, but I’m wearing flannel pajama pants and a T-shirt. I’m sure that’s not what you pictured.”

“I was picturing nothing…” Sharon barked a laugh “That’s not what I meant! I mean I didn’t have anything specific in mind.”

The poor guy was stammering. She loved being able to fluster him.

“What are you wearing, Mr. West?”

Silence met her question.

“Tanner?”

“I’m not sure I should answer that question.”

“Fair is fair, I answered your question. Now answer mine.”

“Boxer shorts,” he mumbled.

She closed her eyes and pictured him in her mind. She knew he was muscular, she could just imagine his chest, smooth and tan. Would he have a hairy chest or smooth? Smooth she bet, considering his Native American ancestry. A six pack, at least and maybe a happy trail heading down behind the waistband of his shorts. She licked her suddenly dry lips.

“Do they have smiley faces on them?”

“No, never. SpongeBob.”

She laughed again. When was the last time she had laughed this much? Not in too long to remember.

“I don’t believe you.”

“No, really they’re just plain. But I made you laugh.”

“Yes, you did. You do that a lot. Thank you.”

“I love the sound of your laughter. I want to hear it all the time.”

That had to be about the sweetest thing anyone had ever said to her.

Blurb:

Zeke Munroe is twenty eight, owns a nightclub called Rubens and has found the woman of his dreams. She’s older, she’s sexy and she’s driving him nuts. He can’t find the right time to introduce himself and make his move, until she walks through the door of his club. 

Jasmine Page is thirty nine she’s an events organizer and Rubens is the hottest new venue in the city. When she goes to check the venue out Jasmine discovers she’s in a Cougar Club. The men are young, the women mature and the owner of Rubens is the closest thing to perfection she’s ever seen.

Zeke and Jasmine need to overcome preconceived notions, miscommunication and an eleven year age difference in order to see if sexual heat and passion can turn into a meaningful relationship. 




Excerpt 

As she lifted herself onto the seat, she slipped her shoes off and watched them tumble to the floor. Jasmine rested her elbows against the bar, propped her hand in her head and rubbed her temples. Great, the hangover is starting before the partying has finished. Jasmine finally crossed her arms over each other and let her head fall forward to rest against them. She closed her eyes, and shivered now that she was no longer dancing.

Something icy cold was placed against Jasmine’s arm and she felt another chill run through her. She raised her head and stared at the large glass of water in front of her.

“You’re probably dehydrated. You hardly stopped dancing all night.” The deep, smooth voice washed over her, causing her body to begin to heat once more.

Jasmine turned her head toward the warmth and when she finally managed to refocus her eyes, she almost moaned in ecstasy. If there was a God then he had truly out done himself. The man smiling down at her was perfection. He was sitting on the bar stool next to her, leaning against the wall. His hair was dark, almost black and hung just below his broad shoulders in long tantalizing waves. It was pushed back from his face at the front, except for one stray curly strand that had worked its way loose to kiss up against his cheekbone. His eyes were dark like his hair and conveyed the same warmth as his voice. His lips were thick and lush ready to be kissed. As her gaze roamed down his body, she was taken by the hard chest and abs that were defined under his tight black T-shirt, his legs were a lengthy example of perfection, muscular thighs under dark denim, and a bulge…Jasmine snapped her eyes back to his face and hoped she wasn’t blushing.

“Drink,” he leaned forward and spoke softly into her ear.

Oh, how could a man smell so divine? She had never smelt a man like him before and she could feel her pussy start to tingle, as he watched her bring the glass to her lips, taking a refreshing drink. She inhaled deeply. Accents of cinnamon and spice tantalized her nostrils. Talk about olfactory heaven. 

“I just thought I’d sit here while I waited for my friends.” Jasmine had no idea why she felt the need to explain her presence to him and couldn’t understand why he looked at her with a wry smile as she spoke.

“I think they’ve left.” He gestured toward the dance floor.

“Oh God, I fell asleep didn’t I?” Jasmine was horrified once she realized the house lights were on and the dance floor empty. In fact the whole club was empty except for a few bar staff who were cleaning up.

“We cleared everyone out and closed the club about fifteen minutes ago.” He was smiling at her as he spoke. “You looked so peaceful I thought I’d let you sleep until I was ready to leave.”

Jasmine gasped when his body brushed against hers as he bent forward, a blaze of heat stroking her body where he touched. She noticed how his gaze roamed along her stockinged legs as he bent to pick up the shoes. As he returned to an upright position, his lips brushed against her leg and he planted a kiss on the lace that sat mid thigh. She wanted to move, to push her wayward hemline back in place. Instead she just stared at the heated point where his lips had been, feeling the warmth spread upward toward her quickly moistening pussy.

“Nice stockings.” He stated as he took her hand and assisted her in stepping down from the stool. Jasmine wasn’t sure how she did it, but she managed to pull the hem of her dress back into position as he led her through a door and down a hallway to the club’s back entrance.

“Can’t I go out the front door?” she asked quietly.

“Not if I’m taking you home, I park my car out the back.”

“I can get a cab…you don’t need to take me home. I mean I don’t even know who you are. I assume you work here, but won’t you get in trouble or something if your boss finds out you’ve left with one of his customers?” Jasmine knew she was jabbering but all of a sudden she felt nervous, and she always talked when her nerves got the better of her. “Is it actually good business practice for the bar staff to take inebriated women home with them?”

Jasmine didn’t have time to stop. Unaware he’d turned around to face her, she slammed right into his hard chest and would have fallen back, had he not slipped his arm around her waist and held her against himself.

“Firstly, I’m a bit offended that you think I’m one of the bar staff. Not that there is anything wrong with working the bar, I sometimes still do it if we’re short staffed. Secondly, I apologize for being rude and not introducing myself. I’m Zeke, Zeke Munroe.” Jasmine thought she was going to burn alive being pressed against Zeke. She placed her hand on his chest and attempted to step back, but he held her firm. “In case you’re wondering what I do here, I’m the owner, and I like to ensure the safety of my customers at all times. It wouldn’t be safe to let you wander off into the dark at this hour. Therefore, I’m taking you home.”

Zeke released her from against his chest, and began to walk forward with her once again, though this time his arm stayed around her waist.

“I don’t want you to go out of your way. You can just put me in a cab.”

“Your place isn’t out of my way. In fact, you could say we live together.” He opened the door of a black Porsche and deposited her into the seat before leaning inside and doing up her seat belt.

“I live by myself, and I’m not giving you my address. So you will just have to either put me in a cab or take me to the train station.” Jasmine thought Zeke was way too cocky for his own good and he needed to be taught a lesson. She imagined he was used to women flinging their pert little bodies at him and, despite the fact she had the urge to do just that, she wasn’t going too. If she didn’t give him her address then he would have to let her go.

“Okay, you don’t have to give me your address. Have it your way.”

Jasmine exhaled and relaxed her head back against the soft leather seat, satisfied she had taught Mr. Zeke Munroe that some women are impervious to his rock hard body and dominant charm.

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BlurbMonths after Shane Martin’s sister vanishes, life crashes down and he finds himself the guardian of a nephew he never knew existed. Blissfully ignorant, Shane trades in his musician status, full of late nights and fast women, for midnight feedings and lullabies. But when Kate McAlister, his prissy, stuck up caseworker, arrives unexpectedly, he realizes he could lose everything.

Kate isn’t impressed by Shane’s messy bachelor pad, rocker image, or sexy tattoos. As a matter of fact she finds it all very sophomoric. The sooner she’s off the case the better. Everything from his long hair to his sarcastic attitude threatens her professionalism. But when he lowers his guard and asks for help, she discovers a side to this tattooed musician she can’t resist. Behind this simple man is an unsung hero.




EXCERPT

When Duce left, Shane sifted through the bag. There were tiny diapers, wipes, some sort of yoga mat thing, a bunch of creams. He laughed when he saw something called Butt Paste. That was self-explanatory.

There was something resembling a miniature turkey baster. He found clothes, itty-bitty socks, a knit cap, a few rattles, two containers of formula, some bottles, and a small booklet with doctor’s visits listed in it. He recognized the writing as his sister’s and a strange, sad nostalgia settled over him.

Was she here watching him now? “He’s beautiful, Noel,” he whispered. “I’m gonna do this. Don’t worry. I’ll figure it out and I’ll take good care of him for you. You’ll see.”

By the time Duce returned Shane was reading the bottle of formula. “What’s that?” his friend asked as he plopped down the paper takeout bag of food.

“Formula. I didn’t find any food. Do you think I should wake him to eat?”

“Uh, isn’t there some rule about never waking a sleeping baby?”

Shane shrugged. “Maybe I should make up a bottle so it’s ready when he does wake. He’s been sleeping for two hours. He’s gotta be hungry.”

Shane wished he had Internet. He wasn’t really computer savvy, but people were always talking about finding shit online. Duce was staring at him with a peculiar look. “What?”

“I think you should give him back.”

“Give him back? There is no back. I’m it.”

“He’s just all perfect and small. What if you fuck him up?”

“Hey, don’t curse in front of him. And I’m not going to mess him up. I just need some practice. I’ll figure it out.”

“Maybe you should ask someone who has kids what to do.”

Shane reached for an egg roll. “I don’t know anyone with kids. I have to take a class and I have a crap load of reading material.”

“When do you take the class? Maybe that was something you should have done beforehand.”

“It starts tomorrow night. I’ll be fine.”

They ate and zoned out to some reality TV. Baby Shane was so quiet they’d almost forgotten about him. Then Duce’s face began to twitch. “Dude, what’s that smell?”

Shane sniffed and choked. Whatever it was, it was powerful enough to make his eyes water. “Aw man, did you fart?”

“Wasn’t me.”

In unison, they slowly turned to the baby who still slept soundly. He leaned over and sniffed, almost gagging as he jerked back. “Holy crap! How could something so pintsize smell that bad?”

Duce covered his mouth and went to the window, quickly opening it to let some air in. The little guy made a tiny nook-nook sound and his miniature fist curled up by his chin in a dainty stretch. He looked like the fighting Irish.

“It’s moving,” Duce whispered as though the baby were a bomb about to detonate. And suddenly an explosion happened.

Baby Shane’s face screwed up tight, turning an unnatural shade of red. His mouth opened wide, showing nothing but pink gums, and an unholy squawk roared out of him.

They jumped and stared as the baby screamed, his little chest working in quick breaths as he drew in only enough air to force out another shrill, squawking cry.

“Do something!” Duce demanded.

Shane panicked. He reached for the book and began to thumb through, not sure what he was looking for.

“Don’t fucking read! Pick it up!” Duce snapped.

Shane tossed the book on the couch and quickly kneeled in front of the angry baby. He wailed and Shane began to freak. Was he in pain? Ugh, the smell coming off of him was burning the back of his throat. “Sweet Jesus, he stinks!”

He quickly removed the soft blanket. Shane was strapped down with some sort of five-point harness a person needed a degree in engineering to figure out. He pressed buttons and undid latches, shaking with the urgent need to make him stop screaming.

Sweat seeped through the baby’s tiny cotton jumper. The closer he got the worse the stench became.

“I thought babies were supposed to smell good?” Duce said, fanning the front door to let some air in.

“So did I. I can’t figure out how to unbuckle him!”

“Hit the red buttons on the side. You gotta get the handle out of the way.”

Sweat trickled into his eyes as he tried to dismantle the carrier. Finally he had the harness undone. “Now what?”

“Pick it up!”

“He stinks!”

Duce scowled. “So, my ear drums are about to burst. You gotta get in there. Tough it out. Take one for the team!”

Shane carefully picked up the screaming baby. He held him in front of his chest like a potted plant. He was so incredibly light. “What now?”

“I don’t know. You’re the one who’s supposed to be Mr. Mom. Comfort it. Pat its back. Sing or something!”

Shane stood and awkwardly turned, swaying slightly. He didn’t want to shake him and break him. He sang the first song that came to his mind, wincing at the lyrics about loaded guns.

Duce’s mouth fell open. “Teen Spirit? Really? How about Rock-a-bye Baby?”

“I don’t know Rock-a-bye Baby. Nirvana’s the first thing that popped into my head.”

“It’s not really appropriate, Shane,” Duce said coolly as if he were suddenly more qualified than him with babies.

“You wanna try?”

“No, I’m set.”

He continued to sing Teen Spirit and eventually Baby Shane quieted. Blue eyes stared back at him and slowly the world began to settle.

Shane was sweating and Duce looked petrified.

“Hi,” Shane said. The baby blinked. “I’m your Uncle Shane.”

“I don’t think he can talk.”

“No shit, Sherlock.”

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Blurb:

In Lapses of Memory, Sydney Bellek recounts her life and adventures to her daughter Olivia.  Every few years from the age of five Sydney meets her true love Elian Davies, but while he remembers her, she doesn’t recognize him. Only after surviving wars, revolutions, and years of separation does she realize they are meant for each other, but in a twist of fate it is now Elian who has forgotten her. While Olivia is recording the history of her parents’ romance she must also deal with her own dilemma, choosing between the rich and dashing Rémy de Beaumec, who wants to take her around the world, and the steady, quiet, American-to-the-core, Benjamin Knox, who only wants to make her happy.

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Lapses of Memory




EXCERPT (PG): The Lady Doesn’t Remember

Several beers later they wobbled out to the lobby holding hands. Sydney had learned enough to know this Elian was a complex person and really, really cute. When they reached her room he backed her against the door. She could feel his penis throbbing through his jeans and took a minute to revel in the desire the friction ignited before pushing him away. He set his arms on either side of her, and regarded her with serious eyes. “You still don’t remember me, do you?”

She shook her head. She didn’t really want to recognize him. Placing him in some other context could only be deflating. She liked him now, a tall, thin, russet-haired man with a pulsing member and inviting mouth, currently blowing a tidal wave of pheromones in her direction.

He continued to stand there, making none of the moves she wished he’d make. Finally she took a step toward him and held out her lips. Leaning in, he took them with his. The link pulled the rest of their bodies together. Arms went around waist and neck, bellies ground against each other, thighs intertwined. Sydney fell into a long, dark, winding tunnel that squeezed her, taking her breath away. She no longer felt corporeal, but more like a soft piece of quivering tissue, the bones dissolving, reduced finally to a pool of liquid heat.

He broke away, panting. “Now do you remember me?”

Her arms empty, she tried blinking to drag herself back to the present. Elian swam into view. His azure eyes shot signals, signals that she couldn’t decipher. What does he want of me? Why can’t we live for the moment? Just be in the here and now? For an instant she thought of lying, but somehow she knew he would see through it, that it would only push him farther away. “I’m sorry.”

He lifted his arms, and dropped them in frustration. He gazed at her, pleading. She couldn’t help him. Bits of him seemed familiar—as though those features belonged to someone else she’d known a long time ago. Other bits, like his deep, gruff voice and his air of insolence, were strange and new. A fleeting sense of abandonment passed through her. Whoever he reminded her of had left her once before. She didn’t want that loneliness again. She turned from him and put the key in the door. He caught her arm. “We’ll meet again, Sydney.”

She tried to match the hope in his voice. “Perhaps we will.” She ran inside and threw herself on the bed. After a good cry and a call for room service, she paced the room, trying to get a grip on her emotions. Something deep in Elian’s eyes drew her. She didn’t recognize his face, but she felt a linkage, a bond with him. An affinity shared, but long ago. She understood him, knew him. A face rose before her, but all jumbled as though she looked at it through a kaleidoscope. Eyes, chin, nose, cheeks, all split up into triangles and rhomboids, making the face as inscrutable as a Picasso painting. She gave up.

Halfway through the chicken cordon bleu she stopped, fork stalled two inches from her mouth. Why does he care whether I recognize him? What is this rapport I sense? Is there some deep, dark secret I should know? Oh my God, is he my long lost brother?

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Blurb-

When someone tries to kill Lady Sophia Gardner, Countess of Modbury, James becomes her appointed protector. Little does she realize he’s not who he says he is.

After they find evidence of something sinister they realize the answer can only be found in London. Once there, events became even more complicated as James’ true identity is made known.

When several more attempts to kill Sophia fail they return to Modbury, later to slip back into London. Hidden but in plain sight they ferret out who and why someone wants her dead. What they learn and the individuals involved turns out to be more than expected.

Once the information is uncover they realize it could shake the foundation of the Crown to its core. First though, it has to be put into the proper hands.

Risking everything Sophia rescues James while bringing the persons involved to justice.

Excerpt

In there were several rounds of venison, beef and even two pheasants of which she took one off the hook. That along with some fresh vegetables from the garden, which she’d collect next, and baked potatoes would make a marvelous and simple meal for them.

Stepping out she noticed he cocked his head to the side, raised brows telling her he wondered about the bird she had.

“Oh good. You get to clean the bird then I can finish preparing it for dinner,” she said, handing over the fowl to him.

“What? You don’t have someone cook for you?”

“Heaven’s no. Why should I? I’m perfectly capable of preparing a meal or two. Now, I’d suggest you do it outside in the backyard while I heat water for tea, which I’ll bring out when it’s ready along with some shortbreads.”

“Sophia, you continue to amaze and astound me,” he said before exiting to the rear of the house with the bird in hand.

Twenty minutes later she stepped out, tea tray in hand, and set it on the wrought iron table. Glancing around she saw James sitting cross-legged on the ground resting against an oak. On his lap was a plucked pheasant.

“Ready for tea?” she called out.

“Yes. Perfect timing as I only finished defeathering the fowl,” he answered as she watched him rise easily to his feet, pinfeathers fluttering everywhere.

“Good, would you put it in the sink so I can finish preparing it for dinner?”

A minute later he returned to a cup of tea and several biscuits.

“What else will we be dining on this evening? I did notice a nice little kitchen garden with several different vegetables along with tomatoes and lettuce.”

“Yes, thank you. When I’m not in town Mrs. Sullivan maintains it for me. In return she gets to keep what she wants for herself and the staff. Anyway, I thought baked potatoes and then I’ll see what looks best. I’m hoping there are enough green beans? One thing I like to do is barely cook them then make a simple dressing to go over them.”

“And the pheasant? I’m guessing you’ll roast it.”

“Yes but first I’ll stuff it with lemons and oranges to give a sweet and savory flavor to the meat. I’ll then slide some rosemary under the skin to act as a balance.”

“Again I must say, you amaze and astound me. I wonder what the ladies of the ton would say if they knew you cooked a meal for a Marquess.”

“Kind sir, if I was to hazard a guess, to a lady they’d faint and for your information I’m doing it for the man I love, who with me will defeat the traitors to the Crown.”

“Then, shall we finish our tea so I can assist you in preparing dinner as the hour is getting late. I also look forward to beating you in a game of chess.”

“Never,” she said, collecting the cups and with the tray in hand returned inside.

Together they worked in harmony on the preparation of the meal and cleaning up. Later they tied two games apiece in chess before fatigue overtook them and they retired to bed. This time sleep was somewhat foremost on both their minds as the morrow would and could set unexpected dangers on them.

Where you can find me-

Facebook- http://www.facebook.com/lindsay.downs.7

Facebook Pages-             https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lindsay-Downs-Author/325132754200597?ref=hl

                                    https://www.facebook.com/pages/Regency-by-Lindsay-Downs/421654731286944

Twitter- @ldowns2966

LinkedIn- http://www.linkedin.com/home

Goodreads- http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3210224-lindsay

Lindsay Downs-Romance Author- http://lindsaydowns-romanceauthor.weebly.com/

Links to my books

http://store.secretcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=products_all&filter_author=175

http://store.sweetcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=products_all&filter_author=172&zenid=7f63c26d080543a034914ce3a5113419

Blurb

"It wasn't supposed to be like this!" has become the mantra in Jennifer Quinn's head since her recent divorce. She was too old to be here...to be single. Melancholy and unsure about anything Jennifer takes her long time friend Niki's advice and gets back to her roots...in Seattle. There she hopes to connect with that long ago girl from her childhood and find her confidence again.

Devilishly handsome, arrogant, and cocky Noel Burns is a man of success. He's also a man of layers and most people can't get past what he portrays. No one until Jennifer.

The last thing either of these people is looking for is a relationship. Jennifer finds Noel highly irritating (and young!) at his best, while Noel finds her magnetic and wise.

Seemingly unsuitable and unplanned attractions lights a fiery passion this duo never expected.

Will they throw caution to the wind? Will they take a chance on passion?

 Excerpts

“You’re always in a hurry, Ms. Jennifer Quinn.” She heard his English accent boom from behind her as she walked toward her car. “Why is that?”

She spun to face him and almost bumped right into him. Damn, why couldn’t he be some bald, fat guy instead of this hunk standing in front of me? “I didn’t realize I was."

“Yes, I think you do. Does it perhaps have something to do with me?” There it was again. That tone of arrogance creeping through.

“You wish,” she replied, quickly turning herself back around.

She heard him chuckle. “Could I interest you in lunch?”

“I don’t think so, but thanks for asking.”

“Oh come on, Jennifer. It isn’t like I’m asking you out on a date. It’s only lunch.”

“No, really Noel, I can’t. Not today. I’m going to meet my sister. She’s just in town for the week-end, and I haven’t seen her since I moved back.”

“Very well, a rain check then, for dinner, say this coming Friday evening?”

“That would be fine. Thank you. Call me with details, okay?” She arrived at her car grateful to be able to leave.

Noel opened her door. “Friday, it is. I’ll call you tomorrow. Enjoy your lunch with your sister.”

Jennifer knew he was watching as she drove off, catching his figure in her rearview mirror. Why is he always laughing? Is it me?


Find Jamie



Contact Links

Secret Cravings Publishing: http://store.secretcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=products_all&filter_author=215&zenid=e7ec6c9ee9dc1474e746a590f1ebf5c5

Blog: http://www.jamiesalisburyauthor.blogspot.com

Website: http://www.jamiesalisbury.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jamie-Salisbury-Womans-Fiction-Author/202978499741542

Romance Novel Center: http://www.romancenovelcenter.com/jamiesalisbury

Twitter: @JamieRSalisbury

I've decided to spend the next 30 days sharing a few titles of mine and my friend's with you so you can get ready for the holidays and fill up those ereaders and bookshelves.  I'm starting with my latest release from Secret Cravings Publishing, Silly Girl.  Don't forget to stop by every day for a new title.

Blurb

Are professional sports just children’s games played by oversized kids?

With an all-consuming focus Matthias Jessup has sacrificed his body in pursuit of greatness. But while he’s enjoyed the spoils of being an elite athlete, the physical punishment can only be held at bay for so long. He knows his time is running out and he will have to face his future soon.

Sylvia Kinder is obsessed with Matthias' public image. But now that her fantasy has walked into her life, could it possibly lead to a happy ending? She worries if there's any place for her in his world, much less his heart.

Drawn to each other on a chance meeting, Matthias must look off the court and discover the real world, while Sylvia will have to find the strength of self to not become lost in a world she doesn’t understand.  But those who aren’t ready for a life after the game surround Matthias and are willing to do anything to keep him on the court.

Excerpt

“Why do you want me to eat the cheesecake?” he growled.

“Because it’s smooth, creamy, sweet on the tongue…”

“I’m liking this.”

“And you need to do something for you.”

“You could do something for me that I would like better than cheesecake.” His finger traced the edge of her cheek to her chin where it slid down her neck coming to rest at the notch on her sternum. “It appears to be smooth and creamy. Bet you a thousand dollars it’d taste sweet on my tongue.”

His voice was perfect. His touch divine. The only reason she let him hold on to her was because Sylvia knew she was about to melt into a puddle on the floor.

“Are you warm?” He asked leaning his head so his lips fell next to her ear. “Your face seems a little flush.”

Warm. Hot. Near explosion. She could feel every ounce of her resolve falling away like leaves in autumn. Each whisper that passed by her gently lofted another layer to the ground. Out of sheer necessity she wrapped her free arm around his waist in hopes that she’d be able to hold on.

Buy Links

Secret Cravings Publishing

Amazon 

Barnes and Noble

Allromanceebooks

Bookstrand

            One of the most popular copies of TV Guide was always the “Best Shows You Aren’t Watching”.  Critics have the privilege, or misfortune, of watching all the shows.  They see the good and the bad. Whether a show is tops in the ratings or barely registering they watch it.  Unlike when your best friend tells you they love a show, the critics get to tell millions.

            Now here’s my conundrum, my book The Guardian’s Heart has gotten great reviews.  Some end up just on blogs while others are added to Amazon and Goodreads.  The Guardian’s Heart even earned a Best Book review from LASR. Think it’s easy to earn it?  Think again, only six books earned the honor in January even thought close to fifty books are reviewed each month.  Although the critics love the book I’m not seeing the readership I’d like.  I feel like Cheers.  Is The Guardian’s Heart the “Best Book You’re Not reading?”  Or since all my books that have reviews have had positive ones am I the “Best Author You’re Not Reading.”

            Unlike a TV Guide showing up in a mailbox and sitting around for three or four weeks on someone’s end table a blog lasts forever. Then again unlike a magazine after one day you have to search for reviews on a blog.  Author’s can link the reviews, but again it’s not like it’s sitting there for you to discover unless you know the author.  Then the author wouldn’t be someone you’re not reading.

            As an author you’re not reading how can I reach you? There are plenty of author’s out there you may not be reading.  I’ve decided to create a list.  In fact, I’m going to start with of course my own self-praise because if I don’t believe in myself who will.  Unlike most lists feel free to add authors you’ve enjoyed too, just avoid NYT Best Sellers or ones that have over 75 reviews on one book, they’re being read. If you haven’t been mentioned don’t take it as a slight, I had to stop the list somewhere.

The 10 Best Authors You’re Not Reading-feel free to click on a name and find their books.

Michel Prince-“This is a story I can see myself reading over and over again when I find myself needed to be inspired.”-LASR book reviews

Tricia Drammeh-“I highly recommend this book and am so fortunate to have discovered another wonderful writer! I can't wait to read more of Drammeh's work!” –Amazon Review

W. Lynn Chantale-“This book has everything romance, action, mystery and suspense.”-Amazon Review

D. X. Luc-“Wonderful! I'm quick to put a book down if it doesn't catch my attention right away. That is not a problem with this book. It's draws you in immediately.”-Amazon Review

Kassanna-“The story line was great and captivating. I would recommend this story.”-Amazon Review

J. L. Oiler-“Suspenseful, erotic, intriguing story of myth. If you enjoy vampires, demons, or any other mythical creatures you should read this book. It's fast paced & will keep you reading til the very end.”-Amazon Review

Lindsay Downs-“All three of these novellas packed great suspense, and eroticism. I highly recommend this wonderful reading experience.”-Amazon Review

Laura Breck-Award Winner! Dancing in a Hurricane won RomCon's 2013 Readers' Crown Award for Best Contemporary Romance. –“I loved this book! Go out and get it! You will not be disappointed.”-Amazon Review

Jacoba Dorothy-“No curse here just a good read that builds momentum and ends with you wanting more, and thankfully I understand there is a sequel. The author reminds me of j k Rowling in that you can tell there is a real love for her characters, they are not just there to tell a story they are the story.”-Amazon Review

Mary Wehr-“If you want to read an amazing love story with a hero and heroine who are relatable and anything but typical, run to get this.”-Amazon Review