Wednesday, December 18, 2013

#GuestPost Boots on the Ground in Australia for KNOWING VERA #writing #research #travel


My first two contemporary novels, Broken Build (Book 1) and HiddenUnder Her Heart (Book 2), were set in the San Francisco Bay Area. Since I live here, it was easy for me to take field trips to research scenery and location. However, Knowing Vera presented a challenge. Even though it starts and ends on the Golden Gate Bridge, the main action takes place half-way around the world in Australia.

Australia has always been an land of enchantment for me. The romance began with Crocodile Dundee and the Crocodile Hunter. What girl hasn’t fantasized about rugged men with dirt on their faces and a knife between his teeth wrestling crocodiles or fighting sharks while talking with that sexy, husky accent?

I began writing my contemporary romantic suspense novels by setting them in the San Francisco Bay Area where I live. Fact checking and research were fun and easy. I had only to drive or take the BART to where I wanted to go, take pictures and notes and talk to people and I was done. I spent an entire day on the Golden Gate Bridge looking over the edge to see how wide the little catwalk was and whether someone could hang on and fight. I also took day trips to Santa Cruz, Pescadero State Beach, and Half Moon Bay to scout locations. [click here and here for posts]

View of the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco Side.
But Australia hung on my mind, or rather Aussie men, specifically Zach Spencer. He popped onto the scene in Hidden Under Her Heart as the swoonworthy training partner of Lucas Knight, the biracial triathlete who was the hero of the book. Initially, he was supposed to be South African. But a quick fact check that South Africa had been banned from the 1984 Olympics had me looking for another location, namely Australia.

I settled on Melbourne when I met my friend, Rebecca Berto, who is from the Melbourne area. She agreed to help me fact check everything, from the location of the gas and brake pedal of a vehicle to the level of humidity in Melbourne as opposed to Sydney. I also met some Australians on the Golden Gate Bridge and  pumped them for information, such as west side Sydney being the not so nice area as opposed to the East. So opposite to Los Angeles where I grew up.

Google was my friend for most of my research. I’d zoom into Sydney airport and map out the routes Zach and Vera took to leave the airport. I traveled through the tunnel and out many boring miles of traffic. Fortunately, I hired an Australian editor, Lauren McKellar from Sydney, and she quickly pointed out there was no shuttle bus from the terminal to the car rentals. She said you walk to the car park.

She also corrected some of my Aussie slang and modernized them from the ones I picked up in teh 1980's. As my adventurers took a detour onto Maroondah Highway, Lauren reminded me that the road signs would not say “Melbourne” anymore.

Once in the wine country, I took liberty and made up the entire Ping Crest Winery. Since I’ve been to Napa, I figured things couldn’t be too much different. I also transplanted the architecture of Mr. Ping’s house from California and used my imagination while looking at water fountains in Spanish Town along the drive to Half Moon Bay to fill in the garden area.

The Central Business District and Flinders Street Station are well documented by Google Street View, so I had no problem walking Vera along the plaza and putting her fingers on the water walls. I made up the electro dance club and description of the neighborhood by looking at pictures of Revolver Underground.

When I wanted to have Vera feed the cockatoos at Grant’s Picnic Ground in the Dandenongs, I got some unexpected help from Gina Dragone, a critique partner. She and her husband actually drove through there and walked around the trails. They didn’t go in, but reported about the fenced off area and having to purchase tickets and buy seeds from the gift shop. If I had gone entirely by blog reports or youtube videos I would have missed this, since it was a new development. In the past, people brought their own seeds and fed the birds in the parking lot.

I surely missed the natural beauty of the Dandenongs and Maroondah Highway, as well as the Yarrow Valley, the Mornington Peninsula and Port Phillip Bay. But having boots on the ground friends made all the difference in the details and I hope someday to visit Australia and see everything for myself. In the meantime, if anyone wants me to fact check San Francisco, Berkeley and Silicon Valley, just give me a holler.

Thanks Melburnians, here’s a link for you. “You’re not a Melburnian until…”

Australian tree taken from the Berkeley Botanical Gardens.
Thank You, Rebecca, Lauren, and Gina for being my boots on the ground in Australia.


Monday, December 16, 2013

b00kr3vi3ws #FirstRead Challenge - 2014


Once again, awesome book blogger Debdatta Dasgupta Sahay has opened up a Reading Challenge for 2014. This time it is to read as many books from authors I have NOT read before. I already have hordes of unread authors on my kindle thanks to impulse buys and freebies so I'll have no problem knocking down my TBR list with "unknown-to-me" authors.

I will be going for the "Lover" level: 26-50 new reads. Here are a few books to start the challenge.

1. The Sleeping Doll, Jeffrey Deaver
2. Encrypted, Carolyn McCray
3. King of Swords, Russell Blake
4. Gifts of the Peramangk, Dean Mayes
5. Almost, Anne Eliot
6. Wake, Amanda Hocking
7. Red Rock Rises, Taylor Lee
8. Progressive Deadly Dinner, Elizabeth Spann Craig
9. Welcome to Envy Park, Mina Esguerra
10. Equinox, H. M. Jadav

Saturday, December 14, 2013

#AuthorInterview Agay Llanera VINTAGE LOVE #filipiniana #chicklit #ebook #giveaway @agayskey


Lately, I've been enjoying stories about young women dealing with family, careers, and finding love, written in a light-hearted humorous manner. Vintage Love was one of the best. It was a fun and delightful story about Chrissy Lopez, whose life is in dire need of a makeover. Who would have known that inheriting a roomful of vintage clothes would change her life?

Naturally, after giving the book a 5-star review, I contacted the author to see if she had plans for more books. Agay Llanera was gracious enough to answer some of my questions. Read the interview and enter a giveaway for your own copy of Vintage Love [and $5 cash]. I guarantee you'll be entertained.

Tell us a bit about yourself. You are a writer and producer of children's TV programs?

Currently, I'm a freelance writer for TV, but I used to be a segment producer for children's programs. I've always loved watching children's shows even as an adult, so working for one (though it was a lot of work) felt like play. It's fun to work with kids and it's fun to get paid to think like one!  I also have three children's books out (Sol, The Gathering, and The Song of the Ifugao). I'd say writing for kids is my first love.

What made you decide to write about Chrissy? Is she a lot like you?

I wanted to write about a person who's too hung up about work to give love a second chance. And since I work in TV, I immediately put Crissy in that line of work just so I wouldn't need to do extra research.  I'm like her in the sense that I used to be so steeped in work that I'd forget about everything else (health, love, family.) Now that I have a family, I'm so much more relaxed about working. Crissy is a combination of my friends who work in the TV industry.

Tell us about the class you took with Mina Esguerra? Can you share some of the things she taught you?

I actually wrote Vintage Love before joining Mina Esguerra's class, but yes, she was instrumental in giving me that extra push to self-publish it.  I also revised the story based on her and my beta-reader's comments. Until now, she continues to be a driving force in marketing the book, along with the other books produced by my romance class-mates.  She basically spearheaded the chicklit self-publishing scene here in the country, and we're forever grateful for her support.

Are you working on something new? What has you excited for the upcoming year?

Yes, I'm working on something new, this time with a college senior heroine, but I also have ideas for (hopefully) my next children's book. Since I have an active toddler and I work from home, it's quite a challenge to carve out some free time and actually write. For now, I'd much rather take a nap. :-P

Anything else you'd like your readers to know?

I just want to encourage readers who want to be writers to go ahead and take that leap of faith. Write, revise, self-publish, and be read! It's a good feeling to create something that others can relate to.

Thanks so much for being on Rachelle's Window. I wish you lots of good fortune and look forward to your next story.

Thanks for the interview, Clare!  I have yet to read your books :-) Will do soon!  


Book Description:
26-year-old Crissy Lopez’s life is in dire need of a makeover. Her wardrobe revolves around ratty shirts and beat-up sneaks; her grueling schedule as a TV Executive leaves no room for a social life; and worst of all, she’s still hung up on the Evil Ex who left her five years ago.

When her fashionable grand-aunt passes away and leaves behind a roomful of vintage stuff, the Shy Stylista inside Crissy gradually resurfaces. Soon, she feels like she's making progress -- with a budding lovelife to boot! But the grim ghost of her past catches up with her, threatening to push her back into depression. To finally move on, Crissy learns that walking away is not enough. This time, she needs to take a leap of faith.

About the Author:
Agay Llanera is a freelance writer for television and video, and a published writer of children’s books. She is a member of KUTING, a private, non-stock, non-profit organization, which aims to be the Philippines’ foremost writers’ organization for children. Email her at agay.llanera@gmail.com and visit her blog at agayisagirl.blogspot.com.

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/336762
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Vintage-Love-Agay-Llanera-ebook/dp/B00DWO33UA
Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/vintage-love

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Saturday, December 7, 2013

#BookChat RESOLUTIONS by Teri Riggs #thriller #romanticsuspense


RESOLUTIONS Synopsis
DEA agent Eve Taylor has had her fill of alpha males. When Resolutions’ operative and former lover, Dillon “Mac” McKenna, threatened her hard-earned independence, she ran. On a mission to gather evidence against a Colombian drug-lord, Eve discovers the drug-lord is helping terrorists plan an attack on American soil. Before she can escape with the vital information, she’s captured and comes face to face with her mortality…

As a teen, Mac watched his family fall apart after his mother died doing dangerous U.N. work. The possibility of losing Eve to a mission ignited an overwhelming need to protect her. When he forced her to choose him or her job, she walked away. Two years later, it seems all his nightmares have come true and he’s tasked with rescuing her from a Colombian prison. Mac has never stopped loving Eve, but does he dare risk his heart when he’s so terrified of losing…

On the run, Mac and Eve must learn to trust each other again in order to stay alive.

* * * * * * * * * *

Note: Resolutions is a private black ops agency specializing in the near-impossible extractions of kidnap victims, hostages, and all forms of intelligence other agencies have failed to retrieve.

*This book contains explicit violence*


PURCHASE


ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Teri Riggs was destined to be a writer. As a small girl she didn’t read bedtime stories, she made up her own. Who needed Little Red Riding Hood or The Three Little Pigs when there were so many great tales bouncing around in her head? When she grew up and became a mother to three little girls, she continued the tradition of making up bedtime stories. On the occasions she chose to tell conventional fairytales, Teri usually gave them a bit of tweaking here and there or added a new ending. Her girls loved it.

After her daughters had the nerve to actually grow up and leave home, Teri discovered she had a passion for writing and jumped right in. It came as no surprise she chose to write mysteries and happily-ever-after’s since that’s the genres she loves to read.

Teri lives in Marietta, Georgia with her husband, one of her daughters and two dogs that seem to think they rule the world. And some days Teri thinks maybe they do.

Monday, November 18, 2013

#AuthorInterview Simi K. Rao talks about Writing


I read a lot of books and every so often, one book stands out and speaks to me. Simi K. Rao's An Incurable Insanity is fresh, vibrant, slightly crazy, and every bit joyful. I reviewed it here a few days ago.
Today, I'm happy to interview Simi and find out about her writing and her life.


1. Tell us about your background. What was the initial spark for writing your book?
I was born in India and have been living in the United States for several years. I am a practising physician by career. I’ve always wanted to become a doctor for as long as I can remember but over the years the stress of the demanding job got to me. I sought an outlet that would help me escape as well as channel my creativity which I knew was hidden somewhere inside. Thus I began to write.
The ‘spark’ for writing this book came from the need to create positivity and hope amidst all the depression and despair.
2. How did you come up with Ruhi’s character? Is she like someone you knew or someone you wished you knew?
Ruhi is the crux of my book. She is the one who changes the flow of the story and drives it to its positive conclusion. She is quite the antithesis of the  ‘Ideal Indian woman or wife’ as traditionally depicted in movies and literature (meek, subdued, who considers her  husband as lord and master despite all the abuse he heaps on her and who suffers in silence). Ruhi is bold, feisty, independent, outspoken, courageous yet also vulnerable, unsure and impulsive. I share a few of her traits particularly the unpleasant ones, hence she is very real to me. But I’m sure all of us women would identify with her in some way or other.
3. Have members of your family or friends read your book? What did they think about it?
Yes, a few friends and family have read my book. Their reaction has all been very positive. But almost uniformly they were surprised that I had written a book on a non medical subject.
4. Why did you set your story in Los Angeles? Tell us about some of your favorite places in the metropolitan area.
When I first came to the United States, I landed in Los Angeles and immediately fell in love. All the places that I have mentioned in my book happen to be some of my favorite spots such as the Griffith Observatory where one can see some amazing scientific displays and a spectacular view of downtown LA, Hollywood and the Pacific Ocean; the Hollywood Star Walk of Fame; and particularly the Venice Beach Boardwalk which to me is like a virtual circus.
5. How do you balance your work and family with your writing? What are you planning on writing about next?
It is very tough but I try whenever I can. Therefore I’m never without my little notebook or IPad so I can jot down my thoughts when and where I get them. I dream of disappearing  into a remote log cabin for 6 months and writing to my heart’s content. :) Someday.
My next writing venture is still in limbo- it could be a sequel or a brand new tale.
Simi, it's great talking to you. I would love for you to disappear into a log cabin and come back with another book. But in the meantime one of our lucky winners will receive a copy of An Incurable Insanity. Thanks for dropping by!


Simi K. Rao was born in India and has been living in the United States for several years. An Incurable Insanity is her first foray into writing. The inspiration for the story came from what she has seen transpire among and within the immigrant community.Some of the experiences included are her own; some have been garnered from friends and casual conversations with acquaintances. She also writes poetry, is an avid photographer, loves to travel, and is a practicing physician. She currently lives in Denver with her family.
You can connect with the author and read more of her work on her website at www.simikrao.com

Simi recently did an interview on the Romance Radio Network.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, November 15, 2013

Get Stuffed in November with #Free #Ebooks every Friday at Free PAR-TAY!!!


Check out the Great Deals, er... what could be better than free? Every Friday at http://www.freeebookpartay.com/ [Click on the Turkey and see]

Hurry, some books expire at Noon Pacific Time. [They'll still be 99c Friday afternoon and all day Saturday]

This weeks's Titles:
Down & Dirty By Carolyn McCray               

The Surrogate's Secret By Mimi Barbour      

Logan's Lead By Nolan Radke                      

Knowing Vera By Rachelle Ayala                

Paradise Valley Mysteries Boxed Set  By Debra Burroughs  

The Law of Three: A New Wasteland (The Portal Arcane Series - Book II)   By J. Thorn                

In Bad Spirits By Chris Marie Green             

Voodoo or Die By Stephanie Bond    

The Protectors Christmas Box Set By Dorothy McFalls   

Safe in His Arms By Rita Herron       
             
The Unexpected Storm By Lorhainne Eckhart  

Nightfall By Rebecca York   

Red Rock Rises By Taylor Lee   

Resistance: Dark Realm Series, Volume 1 By Patricia Mason    

CLICK the TURKEY to download. 

#BookChat BOBBY'S TRIALS #memoir #truestory


SYNOPSIS:
A real-life, true crime, memoir about the incredible story of a poor teenage Oklahoma farm boy who was charged with murdering his mother and sister in cold blood and then burning down the family home in a supposed attempt to cover up his crimes and his ten-year court battle to clear his name.

In the early morning hours of June 19, 1963, just four days before he was to leave for basic training, Bobby Wilson was awakened by his mother.

She held a loaded gun to his head and had a crazy, yet familiar, look in her eyes. Alongside his sister, Bobby had suffered her rants for years, but tonight was different. Bobby knew without a doubt that the demons that his mother had struggled with for years had their sights on him.

He realizes he has nowhere to turn and nowhere to run, but he has no idea that the nightmare has just begun. It is a nightmare that changes the course of his life. It is a nightmare that will ultimately take Bobby ten years to wake up from.

PURCHASE THE BOOK:

EXCERPT:
Butch was barking like crazy and trying to lick my face. Every dog within a mile was barking. I looked around and could see dawn was breaking and our house was blazing, totally in flames, and so was my pickup parked nearby. It was a surreal scene.

Suddenly with a loud crash, our brick chimney collapsed onto the top of the burning house, causing the entire structure to become a roaring fire pit.

The neighbor helped me to my feet, and I leaned on a fence post for support. I was shaking badly and confused about everything. I was not sure if I was just having a terrible nightmare and I would soon wake up. I don’t remember how it happened, but the next thing I knew, I was here.

Fire trucks and ambulances arrived, and I was taken away to the hospital where I was treated for smoke inhalation, cuts, and burns on my face and back. The doctor told the deputy sheriff that I was in shock and very confused. The deputy offered to drive me back home, and he questioned me about what happened.

I told him I really did not know what had happened. He told me matter-of-factly that my mother and sister were dead and their bodies had been removed from the fire debris and were being taken to Oklahoma City for autopsies. He watched me closely for a reaction. There was none. The deputy could have just as well told me it was Thursday morning, June 19, 1963, and my response would have been the same: nothing. I was totally numb and confused. One thing I did remember that would bother me for years was a very strange odor in my nostrils that I could not identify, and my clothes still reeked of that unknown odor.


AUTHOR BIO
Bobby was born in San Francisco, CA, on September 3, 1944, to a waitress mother and mysterious father.  His younger years were years of endless relocations until his mother and younger sister, Judy, ended their sojourn in Hugo, Oklahoma, the area of his mother’s upbringing, Indian country in Southeastern Oklahoma.

Intent on a military career, Bobby enlisted in the National Guard while beginning his high school senior year.  His plans for the future were suddenly cut short when he was jailed and criminally charged with his family’s deaths.

After his release from jail, Bobby had to rebuild his life from scratch and worked his way through the University of Texas and Texas Tech School of Law, all the while supporting a wife and daughter.

Bobby graduated from Law School in 1973 having already passed the State Bar exam.  He was admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1980.

He soon established himself as a fearless trial lawyer in the State of Texas, unafraid to take on the establishment or its leaders in civil and criminal litigation.  He made enemies in the legal profession, but his clients worshipped him.

In the early 1990’s Bobby quit the law business to become a professor of law.  He moved to Arizona and became certified to teach law and political science and was named Outstanding Business Faculty Instructor at Rio Salado College in 1999.

In 2001 he was retained by the disgraced Arthur Anderson and Company to write an Ethics guide for their employees in Arizona.

Bobby continues to write and teach law and paralegal courses for colleges in Arizona. Currently, Bobby is busy writing a series of books under his "Bobby Trials" banner as well as Murder Mysteries/Legal Thrillers. Bobby is married and currently living in Arizona.





Wednesday, November 6, 2013

KNOWING VERA is on Tour - See the Schedule #romanticsuspense #bookreview


Vera has a busy tour schedule this November with three fabulous Tour Promoters. Here are the stops [reviews and features]. I'll keep this list updated as the tours progress. Thanks!

Book R3v3iw Tours by DDS - Giveaway ended
Heaven's Garden (Review)
The Romance Vault (Review)
Shelf Full of Books (Review)
Sheila Deeth (Guest Post - Mixing Controversy and Entertainment in Fiction)
My Addiction for Books and Coffee (Review)
Christa Reads and Writes (Review)
NJ Kinny's World of Books (Review)

Beck Valley Books by Sharon Martin - Giveaway ends tonight (12/8)
Life at Leels (Review)
Living at the Whitehead's Zoo (Review)
Deal Sharing Aunt (Review)
Manic Mama of 2 (Review)
Book Worm and More (Review)
Racho's Nail Love (Review)
Leah Say's Views (Review)
Writer's with Books (Review)
Recommended Romance (Review)
Miki's Hope (Review)
A Day in the Tangled Skeins of My Life (Review)
With God I Can (Review)
A Gluten Free Journey (Review)
Sleepless Gal (Review)
Our Wolves Den (Review)
Optimistic Mommy (Review)
31 days early I rise (Review)

Tasty Book Tours by Lisa Filipe - Giveaway ends Dec 21
Renee Entress's Blog (Review)
abookandalattee (Interview)
I'm a Book Addict (Review)
Paperbacks and Pastries (Excerpt)
Escaping Reality One Book At A Time (Review)
Booklover Sue (Exclusive Excerpt)
Romance Bookworm's Reviews (Review)
A Generous Helping of Romance (Review)
Literary Chanteuse (Exclusive Excerpt)
Book Suburbia (Exclusive Excerpt)
Stories About Love "Boots on the Ground in Australia" (Guest Post)
Rumpled Sheets Blog (Review)
Angie Derek (Q&A Interview)
Sylv Jenkins (Excerpt)
Illustrious Illusions (Review)
I am, Indeed (Review)

Thursday, October 31, 2013

#Ebook #Deal Triple Boxed Sets (Romance, Mystery, Thriller, Romantic Suspense, Horror) - 99c each Limited Time Offer

Red Mountain Publishing is Pleased to Announce Three Boxed Sets Packed Full of Romance, Mystery, Thrills and Suspense and YES, HORROR!!!

For a limited time get 21 full length novels for less than $3.00 from bestselling authors Taylor Lee, J. Thorn, Lorhainne Eckhart, Mimi Barbour, Helen Scott Taylor, Rebecca York, Mona Risk, Nolan Radke, Thomas Morrissey, and more. [Click on Boxed Set Image to BUY or scroll to Amazon links below.]


Happy Halloween! Act Fast because the Deal may not last!


Wednesday, October 30, 2013

BROKEN BUILD (Silicon Valley Romantic Suspense) is EReader News Today Book of the Day

Book Of The Day – Broken Build [reblogged]

by GREG on OCTOBER 30, 2013
Today’s Book of the Day is a Romantic Suspense novel by bestselling author,Rachelle Ayala, and it’s 67% off for a very short time. Broken Build has a 3.8 star rating and is on sale for only 99 cents – save $2!
“Rachelle Ayala puts heart and soul into this intricate and suspenseful book as she takes you through a journey of the soul. A delightful and entertaining, thought-provoking read!” P.B. – Amazon Reviewer


Broken Build
by Rachelle Ayala
Rating: 3.8 Stars
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Price: $0.99 save $2

When a woman wrongs a man… can a man forgive and love?
Jennifer Cruz Jones thinks she can lay her past to rest. She’s landed her dream job at Silicon Valley’s hottest startup. Instead, she’s caught in a web of blackmail, murder, and broken code.
Startup founder David Jewell refuses to dwell on his past. When a man last seen with Jennifer is found dead, he takes a closer look at her. With investors losing confidence and his company in jeopardy, he is forced to protect Jennifer when she is attacked.
Together, David and Jennifer must thwart a killer while rescuing a victim from their past. Love blossoms, but a damaging revelation points straight at Jennifer and threatens to tear them apart forever.
Broken Build is a dramatic, multicultural romance mixed with a huge dose of chemistry, an unsolved murder, a missing child, and a relentless adversary.
Here’s what the reviewers have to say:
Broken Build is an exciting story full of twists and turns, murder and deception, with a steamy romance. Ms. Ayala has done it again by creating another riveting tale sure to keep you guessing!
*******
The main characters are multi-faceted and overall deeply conflicted.Murder, intrigue and unknown people keep you on your toes while maintaining a quick paced storyline with a deep seeded romance. A great read, hard to put down.
*******
Fast paced and mysterious–a page turner to the very end! Broken Build offers several twists and turns that leave the reader guessing. Highly recommended!
*******
This is the second book I’ve read by Rachelle and it did not disappoint. A fun thrill ride of suspense will keep you interested and addicted. I read this book in just a couple of days, I couldn’t put it down. If you’re looking for a great Romantic Suspense book you have to read this one.
*******
This book was every kind of book I enjoy all wrapped up into one. I stayed up late to read it and my hubby could barely even capture my attention. Kept me guessing and was awesome! I will be reading more from this author for sure!
Get Broken Build here: Broken Build

Monday, October 28, 2013

Knowing Vera #Kindle #Paperwhite & #Book #Giveaway Ends Oct 31

KINDLE GIVEAWAY

Be sure to visit these posts and enter the Rafflecopter Giveaway:
So far, only 3000 entries or 1200 distinct people, so your chances are great! If you entered before, please go back and find two more Bonus Entries (10 points each).

Friday, October 25, 2013

#CoverReveal NATURAL HARMONY by Kate Roth #newadult #romance

Coming December 30th from romance author, Kate Roth
Natural Harmony
Blurb:
Suddenly named the acting president of her uncle’s record label, former pop princess Sabrina Walker is finally ready to grow up. While her professional life moves forward, she still clings to the last fragment of her past life in the form of an uncertain relationship with her manager, Beau.

When Sabrina hires handsome, young assistant, Wade Lawson, he awakens in her the hidden confidence she’s always desired. What starts as a casual affair quickly intensifies to something much more.

Sabrina must decide—return to the familiar life of an insecure one-hit-wonder, or embrace Wade and the woman his passion has helped reveal.

Natural Harmony is a stand-alone romance and the first in the Confession Records collection.
Cover art by Jennifer Streif

Check out the rafflecopter for a chance to win an advanced copy of the book!

Excerpt : 
He stepped off the elevator behind her and followed her silently as she led the way down the long dark hall to her office. She unlocked the door and walked in without turning on a light. Wade stood leaning his shoulder against the doorjamb, watching as she fumbled around in her desk drawers for only a few seconds before she retrieved the phone. A loose grin formed on her lips as she held the phone in her hand and when she looked up at him he projected a similar smile back.
                Something happened when their eyes met through the dark in the place where she had hired him, the place where he had touched her arm and assured her she was the boss. Sabrina’s face fell, her tongue swiped over her bottom lip, sucking it into her mouth for a moment before letting it pop back out. Wade couldn’t breathe. Sabra.
                Her brows drew together as she stepped toward him. Wade could see her breathing picking up, shamelessly glancing at her chest. He heard himself swallow hard when she finally reached him. She looked up at him and pressed her lips together again. She’s your BOSS, his head screamed.
                Sabrina’s hand moved out in front of her and Wade barely flinched at the motion. Her fingertips landed on his chest and he wanted nothing more than to sigh at the feeling, but he tried to stay cool. She was staring at his chest and her own hand as it slid down the panel of buttons on his shirt. When her hand stopped at the waistband of his black slacks, he couldn’t hold in the trembling breath that made its way out of him. Her eyes flashed up to his again. F*** it, it’s just a job, he thought. Just as he reached to slip his hand to the back of her neck and pull her close, her cell phone blared through the office. She jumped and looked down at it in her other hand. When she looked at him she sighed with that same unnamable look in her eyes.
                “It’s late,” he said.
                Sabrina nodded. “And I’m drunk,” she added with a crestfallen smile.
                “Right,” Wade uttered.

About the author:
In 2008, Kate Roth decided to get real about her love of writing. She signed up for a course after-hours at the local high school called 'So You Want To Write A Book?'. Indeed, she did! For years Kate had been dreaming up love stories in her head and she'd even managed to write a few of them down but it was that class that gave her the drive to finally do something more with her ideas.

Kate Roth's first two novels, new adult romance The Low Notes and new adult paranormal romance Reckless Radiance were released by Rebel Ink Press. Natural Harmony is her third novel and her first venture into independent publishing. She is hard at work on the next two novels in the Confession Records collection, as well as her first erotic romance, Last Resort.

Kate is inspired by music, film, art and of course other authors as well as the wealth of stories she has heard through her years as a professional hair stylist. She is a small business owner and lives in Indiana with her husband, Adam and their dog, Sampson.

Be Sure to Enter Kate's Giveaway




Monday, October 21, 2013

What Am I Working On AND #Kindle #Paperwhite #Giveaway


A professional tennis player and a Chinese actress are inspiring me to write a new interracial romance between a Chinese-American business student and a jazzy-bluesy guitarist who works as a barista making latte hearts and volunteers at a community garden to feed the homeless. The pair meet in Berkeley when Carina needs a last minute room for her summer internship at a bulge-bracket investment bank.

Excerpt:
“Show off.” Carina Chen blew at the foam on her cappuccino. She couldn’t help glaring at the shaggy haired barista as he explained the art of milk frothing to a gaggle of college girls. Hair flipping and eyelashes fluttering, they oohed and ahhed nonstop as he spun the milk underneath the steam nozzle. When he poured the espresso and layered the milk to perfection, they squealed as if they were in the middle of a group orgasm.
Carina had no time for such nonsense. She had gotten her cup from the female barista whose line was much shorter. Serving coffee did not require sleek muscles and gem-blue eyes.
“Yummy.” Her friend Sheila sipped her latte. “I come just to watch the show. Wonder which one he’ll take home tonight.”
“Only one?” Carina swirled her drink, then tapped the table for Sheila’s attention. “I know this is last minute, but you said you have a friend who needs a sublet. I’m really in a bind. Is there any chance you can hook me up?”
Sheila slowly tore her gaze from the demonstration of coffee-making prowess and licked her lips. “Yeah, let’s wait for his break, and I’ll introduce you.”
Carina looked toward the espresso machines. “Him? Never mind. I’m not sure I could stomach the guy. He’s gotta be full of himself.”
“Why not? Dylan’s really nice. I’ve known him since eighth grade.” Sheila’s eyes wandered back to the front counter and lingered. “Although he’s filled out quite a bit since then. You have to admit, he’s hotter than the Sahara.”
“That’s exactly my point.” Carina watched him hand a steaming mug to a perky blond co-ed. His mischievous smile did funny things to her insides and it wasn’t even directed at her. “I need a quiet place to crash after my eighteen-hour days, not some bachelor’s pad with nightly orgies. I can imagine the revolving door on his bedroom. No thanks.”
Despite her hasty denial, warm flutters bubbled in her belly when he stepped out from behind the counter. He was broad-shouldered, but not bulky, and he moved with the easy grace of a mountain lion as he collected the empties. Heck, the man probably boosted Abercrombie & Fitch’s stock price two full points each time he bent over to wipe a table.
“Well, you could at least meet the guy before you pass judgment.” Sheila folded her arms on the table and leaned in. “Look, the important thing is, he has a great apartment off Shattuck. It’s close to the BART, and it’s available. You can’t afford to be choosy. Besides,” she added with a sly smile, “an orgy or two might do you some good.”
While Carina struggled to close her gaping mouth, Sheila raised a hand to wave him over.
[snip]
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If you made it this far, a great big thanks! Check out the Pinterest Board I made for my new series - Jewells in Love and enter my Knowing Vera Giveaway.
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Knowing Vera, a thrilling romantic suspense and cross-cultural family drama, released September 6 on Amazon.

Excellent and exciting read! – Cate Beauman

The tension just ups and ups!  Well, done. – H. Elliston

Vera’s dating Zach, casually, not committed, when she finds out her long-departed father is the killer of Zach’s mother many years ago.

Meanwhile, Zach reevaluates his life after a tragic accident and realizes he's falling in love with Vera.

Can their timing be so wrong? Vera knows the relationship is doomed, but she cannot resist the tugging of her heart and Zach's panty-melting grin.

Caught in a web of family secrets and hidden agendas, Vera and Zach must depend on each other for survival. A dangerous killer is on the loose, and Vera must find the truth, wherever that leads, even if it’s shocking news for Zach.

From the Author:
Vera Custodio is possibly my most favorite character. I never planned on making her a heroine, but she grew on me. In Broken Build, she first appears as the sister of a dead man, and then as the flirt enticing Dave Jewell with her pancit malabon. From there, she grew to be Maryanne Torres’ best friend in Hidden Under Her Heart. She met Zach Spencer, a playboy triathlete, and succumbed to his charms, but under her terms. Since she was a side character, she had several bad traits she had to grow out of to become a true heroine. She was a flirt, had trouble keeping her panties on, and dropped boyfriends like used nail extensions. But she was also caring, loyal, and a darn good cook. When Zach Spencer suffers a crippling injury, I knew Vera would be the perfect woman for him. But first, she has to overcome the mystery in her past and open her heart enough to trust. And that’s the theme of Knowing Vera.

So, download Knowing Vera for 99c, kick up your heels and enter my awesome Giveaway, featuring the all NEW Improved Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, a paperback, and giftcard.

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AUTHOR LINKS
Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

BUY THE BOOK
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Saturday, October 19, 2013

#NewRelease LOVE & DECEPTION by Chantel Rhondeau #romanticsuspense

Love & Deception (Agents in Love ~ Book 1)
Release Date: October 18, 2013
Author: Chantel Rhondeau
Genre: Romantic Suspense
What if everything you believed in was a lie?

In hiding for six years, Carlie Hollis is tired of running. All she wants is to stay in Sayle, Washington and make a success of her struggling delicatessen. Because of her past, she’s suspicious of anyone who takes an interest in her.

Nick Kendall works as a spy in a top-secret government operation, protecting innocent people from danger. Sent to Sayle on a mission to infiltrate a suspected terrorist organization, Nick finds himself attracted to Carlie, an alleged key player of the group.


Despite her misgivings, Carlie develops feelings for the handsome stranger, believing he is there to help her. But when Nick finds evidence of her guilt, he’s given orders to do the unthinkable—eliminate the target, one he's fallen hopelessly in love with. Will he follow orders...or become hunted himself?

CONTENT WARNING: Violence, language, sizzling love scenes. 

Agents in Love Series: Book 1 - Love & Deception (October 2013)
Book 2 - Love & Redemption (Spring 2014)
Book 3 - Love & Compromise (Fall 2014) More to come...
Buy it now: Kindle Edition: Amazon: US | UK | Apple iStore: US | UK | AU | CA Barnes & Noble
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Mark it as "to read" on Goodreads
Excerpt:
He turned to Carlie and held his hand out to her. “Sorry about that unpleasantness. Let me help you up.”

Carlie looked into Nick’s deep brown eyes and heat filled her stomach. She never expected to talk to the hunky man, and here he was, helping her. Placing her hand in his large, firm one, she hoped he couldn’t sense how flustered she felt.


“Thank you,” she said softly, finding her tongue as he pulled her to her feet.


He let go of her hand and flashed a smile. “It’s always nice to help a damsel in distress.”


“Is this where you expect me to say ‘my hero?’” Carlie took a shallow breath, wondering what came over her. She didn’t flirt, and she didn’t tease with strange men she’d just met.


“I’ve been called worse,” he replied.


A light dusting of stubble covered his chin and the strong muscles of his neck suggested that beneath the white Gi, he was solid throughout. He was handsome, in a rugged sort of way with black hair and olive skin, but that didn’t really matter.


After all, Stephen had been right to call her the ice queen. Carlie didn’t have time to check out a handsome man like Nick Kendall or date any more creeps like Stephen Chance. She needed to get her mind back on training and running her shop. Those were the important things in her life.


She met Nick’s eyes again, hoping he hadn’t noticed her studying him. “I really do appreciate it. I thought Stephen could help me, but he’s after something for payment I don’t intend to give.”


He glanced at Stephen, who hadn’t yet regained his feet, likely afraid of drawing attention to himself.


“Don’t judge all men by the bad apples.”


“It’s hard not to when I keep finding worms.”


Author Bio
Chantel once thought a great mystery or fantasy book with strong romantic themes was the highest level of reading bliss.

After reading her first romantic suspense novel, she never looked back. Before long, the need to create her own stories took over. She spend her days in the clinical profession of medical transcriptionist, but her passion is in the hours spent with her characters in the evenings.


She live in the western United States, and when she's not writing she love playing cards with her family, bowling on leagues, and snuggling with her lazy kitties.

Want to contact Chantel? Website: http://www.chantelrhondeau.com Cyber Stalk on Facebook Follow on Twitter Check out all Chantel's available titles: http://www.chantelrhondeau.com/p/my-available-titles.html