Best of 2009

Some of the best books I've read this year:

I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone by Stephanie Kuehnert
Flat-Out Sexy and Hard and Fast by Erin McCarthy
Generation Dead by Daniel Waters
Talk Me Down and Start Me Up by Victoria Dahl
If I Stay by Gayle Forman
Knight of Desire by Margaret Mallory
Dreamfever by Karen Marie Moning
A Hint of Wicked by Jennifer Haymore
Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler
A Separate Country by Robert Hicks
Rampant by Diana Peterfreund
To Taste Temptation by Elizabeth Hoyt
Skin Game by Ava Gray
Bound by Honor by Colette Gale

I'm looking forward to continuing my 50 books read per year in 2010 (89 books read this year), and there are already a lot of books I'm anxious to read.



Happy reading!!

It Came Upon a Midnight Clear by Michelle Cary

Emotionally battered and broken by a vicious divorce, newly single and nearly destitute Abby Dalton has little choice but to return to her childhood home and reassemble the shattered pieces of her life. She knows her presence in the tiny town will cause old rumors to resurface, but with only a few thousand dollars as recompense and no job, she has nowhere else to go.

As she arrives into town, old ghosts return, bringing with them long dormant desires and the shame those desires caused. Resolved to start fresh despite her past indiscretions, Abby slowly settles into her new life. Then a fire destroys her home and places her in the capable hands of twins Talon and Teagan Werner; gossip and speculation runs wild through the town. Anticipating rebuke from the men she’s adored for so long, she tells them the truth about everything. Instead, she finds acceptance in both their arms and beds. The last thing she expected going home is love, but Abby finds a love to last a lifetime, once upon a midnight clear.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, menage (m/f/m).

Now available at Loose Id.

Congratulations Michelle!!!

Blue Ruin 4: Need You Tonight by Katrina Strauss

Blue’s summer is heating up in more ways than one. When he befriends Dusty Sterling, he sees the opportunity to give his master Derek their first true threesome. But first, Blue must meet a requirement issued by Derek.

Derek is content with Blue as his exclusive lover, but when offered the chance to bring the beautiful Dusty into their bedroom, Derek's definitely tempted. He agrees to Blue’s idea under one condition—it’s Blue who must seduce Dusty.

Blind since birth, Dusty is proud, independent, and knows what—and who—he wants. In need of temporary shelter, he accepts an offer to stay with Derek and Blue. The fact that he finds them both attractive doesn’t hurt, but Dusty must let his hosts in on a secret—his unique and sometimes frightening way of “seeing.”

When Dusty’s nightmares reflect a pair of real-life murders, Blue uses his connections with the police to bring Dusty in on the case. The friends grow closer both in and out of the bedroom, but their bond will truly be tested by the evil that lurks in plain sight.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices, menage (m/m/m), violence.

Now available at Loose Id.

Congratulations, Katrina!!!

Monday Meme

You Are Complex and Brilliant

You have extremely interesting thoughts and complicated theories. You're always plunging deeper into whatever subject you happen to be studying. People make find your ideas confusing and even disorienting. That's disappointing because you are actually a very organized and orderly thinker. Your energy level super high. It's more of a challenge for you to get your brain to shut off than it is for you to turn it on. Your signature latte would be strong. Heavy on the espresso and light on the milk. You've got work to do, and you need every milligram of caffeine to count.

Rules for Good Writing

A funny forward I received last year. Why I haven't shared it until now, I don't know.

1. Verbs HAS to agree with their subjects.

2. Prepositions are not words to end sentences with.

3. And don't start a sentence with a conjunction.

4. It is wrong to ever split an infinitive.

5. Avoid cliches like the plague. (They're old hat)

6. Also, always avoid annoying alliteration.

7. Be more or less specific.

8. Parenthetical remarks (however relevant) are (usually)unnecessary.

9. Also too, never, ever use repetitive redundancies.

10. No sentence fragments.

11. Contractions aren't necessary and shouldn't be used.

12. Foreign words and phrases are not apropos.

13. Do not be redundant; do not use more words than necessary; it's highly superfluous.

14. One should NEVER generalize.

15. Comparisons are as bad as cliches.

16. Don't use no double negatives.

17. Eschew ampersands & abbreviations, etc.

18. One-word sentences? Eliminate.

19. Analogies in writing are like feathers on a snake.

20. The passive voice is to be ignored.

21. Eliminate commas, that are, not, necessary. Parenthetical words however should be enclosed in commas.

22. Never use a big word when a diminutive one would suffice.

23. Kill all exclamation points!!!

24. Use words correctly, irregardless of how others use them.

25. Understatement is always the absolute best way to put forth earth
shaking ideas.

26. Use the apostrophe in it's proper place and omit it when its not needed.

27. Eliminate quotations. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "I hate quotations. Tell me what you know."

28. If you've heard it once, you've heard it a thousand times: Resist hyperbole; not one writer in a million can use it correctly.

29. Puns are for children, not groan readers.

30. Go around the barn at high noon to avoid colloquialisms.

31. Even IF a mixed metaphor sings, it should be derailed.

32. Who needs rhetorical questions?

33. Exaggeration is a billion times worse than understatement.

Marked for Pleasure by Jennifer Leeland

Conner is all military. He believes in his cause and his planet. He's determined to find the assassins that killed his best friend's mate before he takes out his next target, and he doesn't expect to live beyond the end of it.

Rhea's quest for the people who killed her parents leads her to Conner, the man with all the answers. The only way to get her enemies is to pose as Conner's submissive, which she does willingly, but what happens when he marks her as his mate?

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, BDSM theme and content, ménage (m/f/m, f/f/f), moresome (m/f/f/f, m/f/f/f/m), same-sex sexual interaction/practices (f/f), spanking, violence.

Now available at Loose Id.

Congratulations, Jennifer, on your Loose Id debut!!

Hawkeye Two: Bend Me Over by Sierra Cartwright

Tall, dark, handsome, and oh-so dangerous.

That's Trace Romero, Aimee's new bodyguard. Aimee has no desire to share her home with anyone, especially a Hawkeye operative who invades her space and thoroughly dominates her.

If it were up to him, Trace would be in a South American jungle, mixing it up with bad guys instead of playing bodyguard to the uptight college professor who makes him anything but welcome. But when he finds a stash of her BDSM novels, protecting the professor’s body suddenly gets more interesting.

Aimee would send him on his way, if her sister weren’t so concerned about the break in at her house, and if she hadn’t threatened protective custody. But protective custody might have been slightly less overwhelming than Trace demanding her complete capitulation, mind and body, and more -- her total trust. But that trust may be the only thing standing between her and a madman determined to kill her.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, BDSM theme and content, violence.

Now available at Loose Id.

Congratulations Sierra!!!

Reckless Passion by Amanda Young

Beau Bradbury has it all. He’s good looking, owns a lucrative business, and has an endless supply of hunks vying for his attention. His skinny, uptight personal assistant shouldn’t rate a blip on his radar. Nevertheless, there’s just something about Adam that Beau can’t resist.

One night of drunken passion leads to nearly a year of secret trysts during office hours. Adam keeps his private life confidential, while Beau pretends to want nothing more than a good time. It’s a good arrangement, until a simple phone call ruins the status quo and makes Beau green with envy.

Frustrated that Adam might be seeing someone else, Beau tries to put his attraction to the younger man behind him. However, all that changes with the introduction of Adam’s son. Instantly charmed by the sweet little boy, Beau is all the more driven to claim Adam for his own. All he has to do is convince his wary lover to open his heart and trust that there’s more to Beau than his playboy persona suggests.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices.

Now Available at Loose Id.

Congratulations, Amanda!!!

Happy Halloween!!

You Are a Treat

As a kid, you didn't cause too much trouble, and the adults adored you. Now that you've grown up, not much has changed. You know that a little sugar is the way to get what you want in life, and you are as sweet as they come. You like to make things better in the world, and you don't mind following rules... no matter how silly they may seem. You are a truly good person, and there's very few of you in the world. Anyone who knows you is blessed!

Are You a Trick or a Treat?

The First Rule of Blogthings Is: You Don't Talk About Blogthings

Ooh...candy...

Candy Corn is my most favorite Halloween candy!!

You Are Candy Corn

Your Halloween personality is whimsical, colorful, and creative. You see Halloween as a time to get your creative juices flowing. Each year, Halloween can't start soon enough for you. You tend to go all out for Halloween. You decorate like crazy and always dress up.

What Halloween Treat Are You?

Work is Hard. Time for Blogthings!

Just For You by Jet Mykles

Justin falls for Kevin the instant they pass each other on a sidewalk. Only, Kevin’s not gay. The higher ups at Kevin’s company are gay, however, and Kevin’s accidental meeting with Justin gives him an idea how to get around his controlling female supervisor. If he can gain access to the top men at an exclusive gay club, he might be able to finally share his ideas.

Justin instantly agrees to be his date, despite the obvious heartbreak that’s headed his way for going out with a straight man. At the club, Kevin gets a chance to meet the company owner, Victor Chen, and the man seems interested… both in his ideas and his date.

Kevin can’t deny his attraction to Justin, but he’s not gay. Right? He should step aside and let Justin have a chance to date Victor, who’s gorgeous, rich, and shares Justin’s interest in fashion. Despite his internal struggles, he really wants to explore their growing bond. Justin is certainly game, but a part of him knows they can’t have a future together...can they?

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable. Anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices.

Now available at Loose Id.

Congratulations Jet!!

Dirty Business by Monica Kaye

The moment Sean Keller spotted the dark-eyed beauty across a dim hotel bar room, it was lust at first sight. It wasn't long before he had his hands -and mouth- all over her. After one incredible night of sex, he awakens to find she’s disappeared, but it's not long before he finds her again. At his new office: she's his Executive Assistant! He can't allow himself to be distracted. He has come to Denver on a mission, to find the person trying to swindle him. Sean always gets his man. But keeping his distance from his newest employee is not going to be easy.

Chloe Walters had no idea that the handsome stranger she slept with the night before would be her new boss. Or that she’d be the number one suspect in his corporate espionage investigation. She's on a hunt of her own to uncover the scammer. But Sean’s idea of cat-and-mouse has higher stakes than just her job.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable. Spanking.

Now available at Loose Id.

Congratulations, Monica, on your Loose Id debut!

World's Shortest Fairy Tale

Once upon a time, a guy asked a girl 'Will you marry me?' The girl said:
'NO!'

And the girl lived happily ever-after and went shopping, dancing, camping, drank martinis, always had a clean house, never had to cook, did whatever the hell she wanted, never argued, didn't get fat, traveled more, had many lovers, didn't save money, and had all the hot water to herself. She went to the theatre, never watched sports, never wore friggin' lacy lingerie that went up her ass, had high self esteem, never cried or yelled, felt and looked fabulous in sweat pants and was pleasant all the time.

The End

Sex Games by Cara Carnes

Dixie Sinclair spends her days toiling over role playing kits in her high-class adult boutique. Allergic to commitment, she considers sexy Jase Cavannaugh to be the perfect partner for some fun and games. After all, he’s just as noncommittal. The man radiates sexual charisma – she’d be crazy not to.

Jase leaps at the chance to play with the little minx. Something about peeling back the layers of her personality and finding the really Dixie Sinclair appeals to him on a primal level. He believes in working hard and playing harder, and she definitely needs someone that can not only quench her sexual appetite, but match her wit.

Neither Dixie nor Jase is prepared for the chemistry their play ignites; and each role play pushes the envelope on not only their darkest fantasies, but their sworn belief that love is a four letter word.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable.Anal play/intercourse, dubious consent, ménage (m/f/m), voyeurism.

Now Available at Loose Id. Congratulations Cara!!!

Monday Meme

My husband would agree!!

You Are Not a Cook

You know cooking isn't for you, and you wouldn't even consider trying to make a home-cooked meal. And this is a very good thing. You've saved all your friends and family from unintentional food poisoning!

Are You A Good Cook?

Work is Hard. Time for Blogthings!

Monday Meme

Interesting.... On Facebook, I was Sam.

You Are Bill

You are a complex and often misunderstood person. You have a bit of a tortured soul. You are extremely old fashioned, well-mannered, and polite. In many ways, you are a fish out of water. You have many people in your life pulling you in different directions. You try to do the right thing, no matter what. You'd like to live a simple, uncomplicated life with the person you love - but that's not going to happen anytime soon.

Who Are You on True Blood?

The First Rule of Blogthings Is: You Don't Talk About Blogthings

Monday Meme

Your True Blood Guy is Bill

You are an old fashioned romantic, and you're attracted to a true gentleman. And while you fall for the good guy, you also like it if he's a little bad too! Your ideal guy is tall, pale, and handsome. His past is a bit of a mystery, but that's totally fine by you. As long as he's totally devoted to loving you and making your toes curl, that's all you could ask for.

Who's Your True Blood Guy?

The First Rule of Blogthings Is: You Don't Talk About Blogthings

Putting Out Fires by Sienna Black

Carlin Rhodes is a firefighter, first and foremost. He loves his work, he’s good at the job, and he’s reliable to a fault. Some might say he’s too focused. A night out on the town with a good friend is exactly the thing he needs to loosen up. Even if that good friend abandons him at the doors to the Baseline and leaves him to find his own fun.

Zaid, a fire-called Djinn, dances at the Baseline, a nightly routine that bares it all for his customers and keeps him entertained while he avoids his destiny as a leader of his kind. When Carlin watches, though, it’s more than having fun. Zaid is intrigued and curious, drawn to the somber, focused man.

And like a moth to a flame, the firefighter is drawn to the fire-called djinn—and into a fight to save his city from the flame, when Zaid's destiny comes calling.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, dubious consent, male/male sexual practices, violence.

Now Available at Loose Id. Congratulations, Sienna!!!

Dark Elves 6: Awakening by Jet Mykles

As the first girl child born to the dark elves, Eryhaen is rhaejena—princess—and desired by all of the men around her. Born with magical gifts that challenge even the most experienced sorcerers among her people, she has the awe of her people and the devotion of her three best friends and lovers. Brevin, Lanthan and Tykir have been at her side their whole lives and each of the three young men would do anything for her and each other.

But Eryhaen needs more than untutored if eager lovers. She is out of control, and she knows it. Her magic is raw and wild, and she is not the only one who’s started to see her as a danger.

She needs help.

The only possibility is Radin, a legendary sorcerer, returned from the dead but magically unconscious for a quarter of a century. Dreams and undeniable instincts tell her that he’s the solution to her problems, if she can only wake him up.

Once she does, what then? He may be the answer to her problems, but is the legendary lover the man for her? Or is he meant for someone else?

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, ménage/moresome (m/f/m, m/f/m/m), same-sex sexual interaction/practices (f/f, m/m), violence (including attempted rape).

Now Available at Loose Id. Congratulations, Jet!!!

Monday Meme

Your 1950s Name is: Virginia Renee

What's buzzin, cuzzin?

What's Your 1950s Name?

The First Rule of Blogthings Is: You Don't Talk About Blogthings

Books, Books, and More Books!

I love books, though, so it's quite all right to be drowning in them. Actually, it's my To Be Read / To Be Bought list that running over. Lots of things to read. Yay!

I recently finished A Hint of Wicked by Jennifer Haymore. A new-to-me author -- though I've seen her on the forum at Romance Divas. New authors are a tough sell, for me anyway. With a mass market release, however, I feel okay if I buy, read then don't like. I'm SO glad I picked this book up! Once I did, I couldn't put it down, kept trying to sneak peeks while at red lights even. Needless to say, I've already placed her next release (A Touch of Scandal, in case you're curious) on my calendar.

Guardian's Realm: The Collision by Crystal Kauffman

Balin Renforth has served the Guardians loyally for six hundred years, protecting innocents from vampire scum like Fitch Galloway. But he cannot deny the nagging familiarity Fitch inspires, any more than he can deny the irresistible curiosity stirred by the other man.

Fitch Galloway recognizes Balin immediately, though he never knew of the man’s ties to the magical Ancient Fae which gave him the powers he used to transport them to the outer limits. The Guardian has clearly grown a stick up his ass, yet Fitch cannot deny that saving him more than six hundred years ago was the best thing he ever did, and Balin has become an honorable man he cannot help but feel proud of. But that's not the only feeling the handsome Guardian stirs in Fitch...

Or in Gladiolas. If it weren’t for her painful addiction, freed Palace slave Gladiolas would think she’d died and gone to heaven. Finding herself in a remote castle prison with two drop-dead sexy men is like a dream come true. They’re both so fiercely protective it feels like she is no longer slave, but master. Now if only she can get them to stop fighting, and start loving...

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices, ménage (m/f/m, m/m/f) violence.

Now Available at Loose Id. Congratulations, Crystal!!!

Eldritch Legacy 2: Lessons Learned by Katrina Strauss

An enlightened woman of her times, Camille Rocheford stirs up controversy with a novel published under her true name rather than a male pseudonym. Yet despite her modern views, Camille is at odds with the carefree morals of her more open peers. Lured into summering at the home of an undisclosed host, she is shocked to meet the infamous Stefan Eldritch, the greatest scandal being her instant attraction to him.

Stefan Eldritch is known for his provocative verse, more so for his wild soirees. Born into wealth, the poet enjoys a life of excess even as he holds the aristocracy in contempt. But one luxury eludes him -- the woman who can match him in both wits and in bed. Until he meets Camille.

An unlikely pair, Stefan and Camille fall into creative collaboration -- and unbridled romance. When the lovers stumble upon the lost path of the Magi, the power they unleash plunges them deeper into a world of reckless abandon. Yet sinister forces lurk in wait, putting the power of the pen and a pledge of love to the ultimate test.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, BDSM theme and content, menage and moresome (m/f/m, m/f/f/m, partner swapping), same-sex interaction (f/f), voyeurism.

Now available at Loose Id. Congratulations, Katrina!!!

Monday Meme

You Are Betty

You are a perfectly polished and put together woman. You mind your manners and always act appropriately. You are the type of woman who makes an ideal wife and mother. You are able to be completely selfless. The downside to your kindness is that people sometimes take advantage of you. You don't stand up for yourself enough. You are as sweet as you seem, but there's only so much one woman can take before she snaps.

Are You a Peggy, a Betty, or a Joan?

Longfellow Seduced by Violet Summers

Magnus Crowe learned the hard way never to trust a beautiful woman, so when his partner Silas discovers that someone is stealing from their club, The Dungeon, Magnus is totally opposed to calling in a woman to fix it. Particularly a Longfellow woman.

Prudence Longfellow comes from an ancient line of woman warriors. Longfellows are healers, historians and guardians...and in her case, forensic accountants. She agrees to track the missing money at The Dungeon with one condition: Magnus Crowe must stay far away from her.

That's a promise easier made than kept. Pru might look like a little mouse, but she's a warrior at heart, and her valor (not to mention the intoxicating scent of amber and vanilla that follows her around) are impossible for Magnus to resist. Magnus and Pru fight their attraction to each other for as long as they can, but even an ancient Vampire and a Longfellow can't beat fate.

But fate isn't the only thing conspiring against them. Magnus' and Silas' sire, the evil Contessa Allessandra DiCasca, has set a foul plan in motion to reclaim her boys. It is only with the power he finds in Pru's love that Magnus can gain the strength to defeat his creator and protect all he holds dear.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, dubious consent, violence.

Now Available at Loose Id. Congratulations to Violet on her Loose Id debut!!!

The Price of Submission by Michelle Cary

When the club Misty's working at closes, she's left with few employment options. That is, until her ex-boss offers her an alternative she would have never considered on her own. A friend of his is looking to hire a submissive to satisfy his sexual needs. It's not exactly conventional, but what the hell? Misty accepts the year-long contract. What's the worst that can happen? A lot of sex and money to start over?

Owner of a multi-national conglomerate, Garron Worthington works hard for his money and likes to play just as hard in his spare time. His fetish for bondage and dominance dictates his need for hiring women to satisfy him, since he doesn't have time to court them. Infatuated with Misty, Garron accepts her contract and begins her training. He doesn’t intend to fall in love with her, but sometimes that's the price of a submissive.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, BDSM theme and content (including/not limited to: spanking), ménage (m/f/m), same-sex sexual situations (f/f), voyeurism.

Now Available from Loose Id. Congratulations Michelle!!!

Monday Meme

You Aren't A Diva

You don't like to cause a fuss or draw attention to yourself. You're easygoing, and you can even put up from diva behavior from others. This makes you everyone's favorite trusty companion. But watch out - it could also make you their favorite doormat.

Are You a Diva?

Celebrate the Category

Celebrate the Category

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Off the Beaten Path by Katrina Strauss

Travis Bell is openly gay to family and friends, but as a college athlete, he chooses not to define himself by his sexuality. When he covers for a friend's misdeed, he's forced to renegotiate his future. Carefully. Or he's going to lose his coveted lacrosse scholarship. The last thing Travis plans on, however, is a "volunteer vacation" in the remote wilderness with members of Omega Beta Pi, aka Off the Beaten Path, a fraternity devoted to gay rights and environmental causes. To make matters worse, he must share a tent with Kyle, an opinionated activist who also happens to be the hottest guy Travis has ever met.

Kyle Schafer is a proud activist who disapproves of Travis's ignorance on issues affecting the environment and gay community. To his even greater annoyance, Kyle finds himself attracted to his shallow tentmate on a purely physical level. Travis goes against everything Kyle believes in, but that doesn't dampen the chemistry that sparks between them. Pretty soon, it looks like Travis isn't the only one who'll be going off the beaten path.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices.

Now Available at Loose Id. Congratulations Katrina!!!

Heaven Sent 6: Revelations by Jet Mykles

For years, Gretchen’s main objective has been taking care of the boys of Heaven Sent. When her boys decide to take a hiatus, she decides to do the same.

Before she can begin her summer off, Gretchen has one last public commitment. There, she meets tall, mysterious, and wickedly handsome Archer Thanos. Archer’s company has a video game based on Heaven Sent and he’s has been trying to get in touch with her to discuss it. Their first meeting quickly turns into a discussion of another type … in a nearby hotel room, sending Gretchen headlong into a whirlwind affair she hadn’t anticipated.

Only, someone isn’t exactly thrilled about Gretchen and Archer’s romance. Gretchen’s adorable new assistant, Owen, has been pining for his boss since he started working for her but he hasn’t had the courage to assert himself and tell her he wants her. As a result, Gretchen is completely blind to his feelings for her. And after meeting Archer, Owen knows he has no chance against the handsome devil. His own attraction to the older man is instant and overwhelming, the bisexual urges he hasn’t divulged to Gretchen fully awakening.

Owen thinks he’s not enough for Gretchen. Gretchen thinks Owen is far too young for her. Archer thinks they’re both ridiculous. He knows the three of them are just right for each other, if they can survive the revelations.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices, ménage (m/m/f with m/m sex/interaction).

Now Available at Loose Id. Congratulations, Jet!!!

Monday Meme

You Paint the World with Deep Colors

You are a true individual. You are very unique. Your friends can count on you to be expressive. You're never at a loss for words. You are a truly warm person ... though sometimes you can be a bit selfish. You are keyed into your emotions and easily moved. You are quite sensitive.

How Do You Paint the World?

Chicken Ranch: Hunger by Amanda Young

Disowned and cast out of his home, eighteen year old Declan Mayo turns to the only thing he can think of to help him get back on his feet. Working at the Chicken Ranch, a rural brothel that caters to women and gay men, seems like the perfect solution. He isn’t about to let a lack of sexual experience stop him from taking what he sees as a way off the streets.

Falling in love with one of his clients wasn’t in the game plan, but Declan can’t seem to help himself. Killian Hamilton is sweet and kind, with a stutter Declan can’t help but find adorable. Surely, if anyone could overlook Declan’s choice of employment, it would be a kindhearted man like Killian.

But Declan didn't figure on Killian’s connection to one of the brothel’s regular clients, and now his love life's about to blow up in his face.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices.

Now Available at Loose Id! Congratulations, Amanda!!!

Monday Meme

You Were Born into the Wood Element

You are compassionate person who values harmony. You are quite generous toward others. You are able to adapt to almost any situation. You are very independent. You have to watch out for your temper. Your emotions can get the best of you at times. You are truly passionate about life. You are always embracing the world and learning from it.

What Element Were You Born Into?

Monday Meme

You Are a Winter Person

You are calm, serious, and focused. You're the type of person who appreciates the quiet and calm. Winter is the perfect time for you to get cozy and work on a hobby. Summer is a bit too hectic for you. You like the dead of winter... preferably with a roaring fire inside.

Are You a Winter Person or a Summer Person?

Monday Meme

You Belong in 1986

Wild, over the top, and just a little bit cheesy. You're colorful at night - and successful during the day.

What Year Do You Belong In?

Seducing His Lordship by Brenda Williamson

Handsome Lord Laramore is everything Lady Carmody wants in a husband. Except his two years of neglect forces her to take matters into her own hands to gain sexual favor. After spending exorbitant amounts of his money, and concocting a story of an illicit affair doesn’t work, she barges into his life, hoping to seduce him.

Gabriel married Carmody out of convenience. Little did he suspect he’d fall in love. However, a dark secret holds him at bay until the presence of her tantalizing body makes it impossible to ignore his hunger to mate. Only how well will his innocent wife handle his animal lust?

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Dubious consent.


Now Available at Loose Id.

Congratulations, Brenda!

Monday Meme

Your Pop Star Name Is Tara Blanco

You're Gonna Be a Star!

What's Your Pop Star Name?

The Book Geek Says...

Thanks to SAVE THE CONTEMPORARY, hosted by Jane of Dear Author and Sarah of Smart Bitches Trashy Books, I won a copy of Lisa Kleypas' Smooth Talking Stranger.



I've never read anything by Kleypas, so after I recovered my shock from winning, I anxiously awaited my prize. Needless to say, once I started Smooth Talking Stranger, I couldn't put it down. I didn't feel left out or lost in the Travis family dynamic, possibly because the book was from the POV of an outsider, Ella Varner.

I liked the fact that the heroines of this series are unconventional or in unusual circumstances. They also have pretty firm heads on their shoulders but they make mistakes and own up to them. They learn, they grow, they're real. I hope Ms. Kleypas writes a fourth book -- we've got to know who Joe hooks up with, right?

Thank you again to Jane, Sarah and St. Martin's -- and Ms. Kleypas for such an entertaining series.

Brenda Novak Auction

I'm participating in the 2009 Online Auction to Benefit Diabetes Research organized by Brenda Novak. Lots of amazing items and services up for bid, and for a great cause, too!!

Monday Meme

You Are a Mohawk

You are a true rebel. You enjoy flaunting your nonconformity. Your idea of style is not fitting in with the crowd. You like to look unique. At your best, you are creative and ready to challenge the status quo. At your worst, you are surly and stubborn. You sometimes scar people.

What Hairstyle Are You?

Passing It On

I'm at Romancing the Blog today talking about passing my love of reading on to my son.

My mother was definitely influential in my reading. She encouraged me and fostered the lurve of books by taking my brother and I to the library on Saturdays. I still get that same rush of excitement whenever I step into a library or a bookstore. Sometimes, though, I think my mother cursed my love of reading. She'd snatch my book and lock me out of the house in the summertime in the hopes I'd get a bit of a tan. I spent our last family vacation together in Myrtle Beach reading Love and War by John Jakes. (I could read the books but not watch the miniseries, a blog for another time, I suppose).

Monday Meme

Your Name's Power is Perception

Your name's power is that it helps you be perceptive. Your name conveys both wholeness and wisdom. People who meet you can't help but think you are enlightened. You try to live your life with flexibility and insight.

What's Your Name's Power?

The Combat by Crystal Kauffman

Amidst a cataclysmic war between the Guardians, an ancient sect of gargoyles charged with policing vampirekind, and a maniacal vampire king who intends to enslave humanity for the sinful pleasures of vampires worldwide...

Desperate to locate her missing sister, Gabrielle Langston travels to San Francisco expecting to find Linna in a fanatical Goth community of wannabe blood suckers. Instead Gabrielle discovers real--real!--vampires, sexy gargoyles, and an undead prince intent on claiming her as his bride.

Though it's been over eight hundred years since a vampire killed his young wife, the scars on Davin McCain’s soul still burn deep. He has risked his life for the Guardians for eight centuries, yet never again has he risked his heart. But when he rescues feisty Gabrielle, drugged by the vampires to make her insatiable, Davin is lost to the charms of the pretty, green-eyed human.

Gabrielle's dangerous idea to infiltrate the vampire coven is the only chance the Guardians have to finally locate the vampire’s “Palace,” but Davin realizes while he’s just found the mate he wants by his side for eternity, he could lose her in mere days.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Exhibition/voyeurism (scene includes anal play/intercourse, moresome m/f/m/m), sex in shifted form, violence.

Now Available at Loose Id.

Congratulations, Crystal, on your debut!!!

Reckless Behavior by Amanda Young

After six months with his lover, Cody yearns for monogamy. The threesomes he and Dante engage in are fun, but he needs more from the man he loves. Although Cody longs to tell Dante how he feels, he fears love and fidelity are two words missing from his older lover’s vocabulary.

The discovery of a naked man in Dante’s apartment confirms Cody’s worst fears. The cliché Dante uses as an excuse for his betrayal further clouds the issue at hand. Cody doesn’t know whether to trust the word of a man notorious for screwing around, or believe the worst and walk away from love he wants more than anything.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices, ménage (m/m/m).

Related to Reckless Seduction.

Now Available at Loose Id.

Congratulations, Amanda!!!

Monday Meme

You Color Your Life With Intense Warmth

You are a down to earth, stable person. You can be relied on. You enjoy the outdoors. There's something about being in nature that makes you feel really blissful. While you are responsible, you aren't boring. You have a lot of flair and style. You enjoy creative projects of all sorts. You're a very visual person.

How Do You Color Your Life?

Eldritch Legacy 1: Secrets Revealed by Katrina Strauss

The king's fiercest warrior, Lord Eldritch, hides his face behind an iron mask, and his tortured past beneath a hardened shell. For nineteen years the Black Magi have ruled the land; the evil king's knights enforcing the ban on all forms of magick once practiced by the common populace. And none have been more feared than Eldritch.

A young peasant, beautiful in body and soul, Inga was orphaned as child and raised to hide her healing gifts in ordered to stay free. She is plagued by nightmares of Eldritch -- and shaken when her dreams take an unexpected sensual turn.

Rumors of a practicing medicine woman reach the Magi and Eldritch must investigate. He finds a strong-willed maiden who ignites his passion and stirs memories of a love long lost. Self-protective, he imprisons Inga in the castle dungeon where he may possess and keep her forever. In time Inga learns that, even in submission, she wields power over her captor. Can she inspire Eldritch to face his past and challenge the king while she, herself, resists the seductive lure of dark magick?

Publisher's note: This book is a re-edited, revised version of a title previously released by another publisher, and contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, BDSM them and content (including/not limited to tethering, voyeurism), dubious consent, homoerotic sexual situations (f/f, m/m), menage (m/f/f and m/f/m).

Now Available at Loose Id.

Congratulations, Katrina!!!

Monday Meme

You Are Orange Juice

You are an energetic, driven, motivated person. You are always eager to get started, and you face each day with optimism. You are bright and hopeful. You tend to see what's right as opposed to what's wrong. You are generous and caring. You're always happy to give someone else a little energy boost!

What Kind of Juice Are You?

Support Your Local Library

In a quest to be more diverse with my reading -- or liven up my choices -- I'm participating in a reading challenge for 2009: J. Kaye's Book Blog: Support Your Local Library.




Because I wasn't certain how many library books I'd actually finish, I only signed up for 12 books. I have a tendency to place holds on whatever titles catch my fancy, then am unable to read them all because, imagine that, they're due at the same time! And since most of the books I want to read are new releases, there's restrictions on renewals.....

Anyway

I've already read 12 13 library books, with lots more on the horizon!

Lost Star by Morgan Hawke

Once upon a time, before the Victorious Star, there were a prince and a prisoner...

Aubrey was a tech engineer with a dirty little secret that the Moribund Company was willing to destroy everyone and everything to get their hands on. When Deshryt Seht, blood prince of Skeldhor, saved the dying boy's life, it set off a contest of wills as strong as the call of their blood. Unfortunately Aubrey has one more secret that severs their relationship before it can truly begin.

Though years and an ocean of stars separate the prince from the prisoner he saved, neither the prince nor the Moribund Company will let him escape. What was Lost will be found, winner take all.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, BDSM theme and content, domination/submission, dubious consent, knife play, male/male sexual practices, violence.

Now Available from Loose Id.

Congratulations, Morgan!!!

Monday Meme

You Are STOP

When you're confronted with a problem, you drop everything else you're doing at the time. You need to take a moment and collect yourself before you proceed. Once you've taken a quick break, you're ready to tackle almost anything that's come your way. But if you're not given time to figure things out, then the likely result is chaos.

What Street Sign Are You?

Monday Meme

You Are the Heart Chakra

You are loving, kind, and empathetic. You feel for the world, and you truly value peace. You have many close relationships, and you work hard to make them harmonious. You are accepting and understanding. You are tolerant of all sorts of viewpoints, even if you don't agree with them. You are very forgiving. When you love someone, your love is unconditional.

What Chakra Are You?

Larissa Ione's Passion Unleashed

Silent Partner by Treva Harte

Joel "Bry" Bryant hadn't lived in New York City for almost a decade, which he figured was almost a decade too long. He was also still not living with the man he shared a restaurant and a lot more with -- Chaz Randolph.

When he told Chaz he wanted to go back home, he didn’t expect what happened next. Why, after all these years, were Chaz and their long-lost sex buddy, Susan, chasing after him? Bry was leaving. No matter how hard or how long they worked to persuade him. Right?

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, male/male sexual practices, ménage (m/m/f) w/ homoerotic content.

Now Available at Loose Id.

Congratulations, Treva!!!


Read The Entire I HEART THIS CITY Series: