BlogFest 2012: Book, Swag Pack and $10 GIVEAWAY

Welcome to BlogFest 2012

hosted by A Journey of Books

What the heck is this?

A Journey of Books partners with book blogs to share 

their favorite books

with readers like yourself.

What are you giving away?

One
Won by Diva Vixen Queen!
Seven Nights in a Rogue's Bed was emailed from Amazon on 10/2/2012.  
Contact Sallie for additional details!

Every person who comments telling me a romance novel they would like to read is automatically entered to win that romance novel.  (Please leave your email and no books over $6.00.  Book will be sent via Amazon, and only by paperback if eBook is not available.)

Two
Won by Shadow!
Email sent 10/2 re: mailing address.  Contact Sallie for additional details!

Every person who follows Ravishing Romances via Google, Linky or NetworkedBlogs is entered to win:

Swag from Romance Writers of America's 2012 conference

Swag pack includes:  Carina Press phone/computer screen cleaner, Vivian Arend dog tags and book trading cards,  Toni Blake's The Red Diary's blank note booklet, Angela Britnell's It's Complicated book card, Vicky Dreiling trading cards, Laura Kaye magnets (2), AvonImpulse magnet (1), Debbie Macomber's The Inn at Rose Harbor novel teaser, Sophia Nash's The Art of Duke Hunting novel cover art, the RWA 2012 Conference Program (new) and the RWA 2012 red and white book/clothes bag.

THREE
Won by Redheaded Bookworm!
Gift Card emailed to address given in comment and message sent via Facebook.

Follow Ravishing Romance via one of the ways mentioned in TWO, like Ravishing Romance's Facebook page, be Musing Sallie's Facebook friend and follow Sallie on Twitter and you're entered to win a $10 Amazon Gift Card delivered via email.

That's a lot of chances to win. 

Winners chosen using Random.org

Who else is participating in this blog?

Click the BlogFest photo at the top for a complete list, or view the five blogs who signed up with me:

Alexia Banks Romance; 

who Sallie also listed as having the best romance book trailer

I'd so Rather be Reading;

Havan Fellows; and

The Cozy Reader.

Novel Feature: Tarah Scott's "My Highland Love," Highland Lords Series - Book #1

Buy now from Silver Publishing

Back of the Book

How does a woman explain to her betrothed 

that she murdered her first husband?  

Elise Kingston is a wanted woman. Nothing, not even Highlander Marcus MacGregor, will stop her from returning home to ensure that the man responsible for her daughter's death hangs. Until she must choose between his life and her revenge.  

Shipwrecked in the Scottish Highlands, American heiress Elise Kingston quietly plans revenge for the deaths of her daughter and the brother who sacrificed his life to save her. When Marcus MacGregor, Marquess of Ashlund, returns to his Highland home to discover a stunning American woman has been taken in by his clan, his attraction is instant and he resolves to make her his--no matter what secret she's keeping. 

Elise is shocked by her need for Marcus and, too late, discovers that her feelings make him a target of her enemy--a man powerful enough to destroy even a Scottish nobleman.

Excerpt 

Elise headed for the great hall. At the postern door, she entered and saw Marcus standing near the hearth. He broke off his conversation with the two men who stood with him and glanced over his shoulder. The drawn look on his face snapped into a dark scowl. He started forward. Elise faltered when she saw he meant to intercept her. His companions disappeared up the nearest staircase and a hum of apprehension began deep in her stomach.

Marcus rounded the table and reached the midway point when she blurted, "Good afternoon, Marcus. How are you?" 

"Where have you been?" he demanded. 

"I—" She fell back an unsteady step when it seemed he would ram into her. He halted three feet from her. "I have just returned from visiting Michael." 

"So I was told," he replied curtly. "Winnie's warning did nothing to deter you?" 

"Winnie's warnin—" Elise recalled her encounter with Winnie that morning. Good Lord, Winnie had told him she saw her leave. 

Marcus's eyes narrowed. "Aye, you remember. Fortunately for you, I only just discovered your absence. Unmanageable wench," he added in a dark voice. 

"You have your answers," she shot back. "Why bother asking?" 

"Because I couldn't believe you were traipsing about the countryside." 

"I was not traipsing about the country. Not that it's your business." 

"It is my business—and I will see to it you no' do it again." 

She ignored the warning bell the definite hardening of his brogue set off inside her head. and said, "You're insane if you think I'll be ordered about." 

"Ye will do as you're told," he said in a quiet voice that was perversely more unsettling than a shout. 

"I come and go as I please, just as everyone else at Brahan Seer." 

A keen light shone in his eyes. "If you will note, the women are staying close to home." His expression hardened. "At the express command of their men." 

Elise gasped, then glanced past him, gauging the distance between him and the freedom the kitchen offered. He stepped closer and her temper flared. She raised her hands to shield herself from his advance and her palms met the unexpected warmth of his chest. She gaped at her fingers splayed across tanned skin where his shirt lay open, and her senses reeled at the raw power in the heavy rise and fall of his chest. 

"Lord," she whispered, and yanked her hands away. 

The vague realization that strong fingers had gripped her wrists was overshadowed by the jolt she felt when Marcus forced her hands back to his chest. Her mind screamed to break free, but the sight of her palms gliding over his dark skin—the need to touch every contour, to know intimately his powerful body—held her rooted to the spot. She tore her gaze from his chest and looked into his eyes. The fire blazing there drew her—commanded her—and she leaned into him. 

"There ye are, lad. I was just look—" 

Elise twisted as Cameron reached the bottom of the nearest staircase. He lifted a bushy brow. She looked back at Marcus. His hold loosened and she snatched her hands away. She retreated, stumbling over her own feet. Marcus reached for her, but she dodged his hand with another unsure step backward. 

"I-I must go," she stammered, and fled the room. 

"Elise—bloody hell!"  Marcus's voice echoed off the stone walls as she shoved through the postern door.

My Highland Love rating:  3.5 out of 5 stars

Release Date:  September 22, 2012

Highland Lords Series, Book #1

How are the sex scenes?

Sexy and enjoyable.  This novel is sexual, but not all about sex.  

Marcus's pursuit of and patience with Elise makes consummation all the more attractive.

How are the story lines?

Good, interesting and they deal with sensitive issues.  

(Such as death of a child, murder of a spouse and some shocking things that happen towards the end.)  

All make up great obstacles for the couple to overcome.

Would you read it again?

To ensure I caught all the information, I read it once and skimmed it a second time.  

I will read the second book in this series.

Review

Heroine Elisabeth "Elise" Kingston washes up on the Highland shores and is taken in by the laird of MacGregor keep.  His son, hero Marcus MacGregor returns home and decides he must have her.  

Elise is hiding at MacGregor keep and has no time for Marcus - especially since she is instantly attracted to him.  (Instantly attracted to, not instantly in love with.)  

"She flushed at the spectacle of his open shirt but couldn't stop her gaze from sliding along the velvety dark hair that trailed downward and tapered off behind a white lawn shirt negligently tucked into his kilt."     

Read Sallie's tweet about this quote

She often defies Marcus, because she is from America and does not fully understand Highland ways.  Love this.  It lends humor to Marcus and Elise's relationship and boldness to Elise's character.

From the start Marcus strongly wants Elise.  I questioned his intelligence at times, because he goes through an awful lot of trouble for mere lust.  But in the end he figured it out - and was swoon worthy while doing it.

"But wouldn't it be more honest to admit you love me?" 

Her eyes widened.  

"You can trust me." Marcus discerned a quickening of her breath. He'd hit the mark. "For you know," he added, "I love you."

Marcus is this intense, brooding and determined throughout the entire novel.  R-O-M-A-N-T-I-C.  He crosses oceans just to protect the memory of his beloved and is the reason he and Elise remain together.  

For his dedication to Elise alone, My Highland Love is a worthy read.

You liked it, why didn't it receive 5 stars?

Gaps in time can strengthen a hero/heroine relationship without many words, yet this novel has the gaps with no words (in the beginning).  When the last sentence has the heroine furious with the hero and the next sentence she's holding her breath waiting for him to enter the room - I want to have a couple lines as to what made the change.  

The location change at almost 3/4 through the story is confusing for me.  I understand why it happens, but introducing new supporting characters, new sub-plots and new obstacles to separate the hero from the heroine is a bit much to take in so late in the novel.  This is the reason My Highland Love received a 3.5 star rating instead of 4 or higher.

In all fairness, I read an ARC.  Many of these things could have been modified and clarified during the editing process.  

Huge thanks to Tarah Scott for letting me review My Highland Love.  Her generosity is proof that authors do listen listen to their (slightly obsessed) fans and this novel has endeared me to her even more.  Mwah!  - Sallie

Learn more about Tarah Scott and her upcoming titles on her website, Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads.

Published by Silver Publishing

Disclaimer:  No compensation was received for this review.  ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review.

Author Interview: Nikki Prince on her novel "Demon Mine"

Amazon - All Romance eBooks - Bookstrand

Release Date:  September 12, 2012

Publisher:  Evernight Publishing

Blurb

Samael is a fallen angel doomed to repeat his life and love for Liliana Jackson over and over again. That is until she finally remembers who she is and the reason for the curse that has befallen them both. For you see, Liliana was once Lilith the first wife of Adam and the lover of Samael. 

 Are they doomed to keep repeating the past? 

Or will there be a new future for the reincarnated lovers?

Welcome to Ravishing Romances, Nikki! Thank you for being here. 


Q:  How’s the reception been for Samael and Lilianna? Do readers connect well with them? 

A:  You know it’s still too soon for me to know. I am hoping so as I love the characters and hope that everyone sees how special they are as well. 


Q:  Hero Samael is a fallen angel who’s doomed to relive his love for heroine Lilianna over and over again. Can you give us more details about Samael and Lilianna’s revolving door relationship? 

A:  Basically Samael and Liliana have a cursed placed on them, so in order to have their love survive they must figure out why they are cursed and end that curse. 


Q:  Is Samael an alpha male? 

A: Samael is very alpha. 


Q:  What’s the heat level of Demon Mine? Is it erotica, romantic, sensual? 

A:  It is an erotic romance. 


Q: Demon Mine is first in your Karmic Lust series. Who’s the hero and heroine of the next novel and are they mentioned in Demon Mine? 

A:  The hero and heroine of the next book will be Eva Jackson and Clay Quinones. Yes, they are extremely important in the first story and cried out for their own story to be told. 


Q:  Care to share an excerpt with the readers?

Warning:  This excerpt is EROTIC

Liliana Jackson sat on the bed in the darkened room. Her breath was ragged as she eagerly waited for her lover to arrive. The need she felt was always instant when she thought of him. The slightest movement of cloth from her sundress scraping over her hard nipples tortured her as her bare pussy dampened. She glanced at the small clock on the wall opposite her bed. It would be only a matter of minutes before he stepped across the threshold. 

She tried to be patient and wait. She let out a whimper, trying her best to wait for him, but failing. Slowly, she slipped her dress up her thighs, baring her shaved pussy to the air in the room, parting her legs while she leaned back onto the pillows; her fingers teased along her slit in one smooth stroke. She slid two fingers around her wet entrance, and then leisurely teased her clit. Liliana inched one, then two fingers inside of her drenched folds with a moan. She rocked her hips to push them in deeper as her head fell back against the pillow. 

She groaned once more as she neared orgasm. One without him. He'd want to punish her, and she'd welcome it. She loved it when he acted all badass around her. In fact, she wanted it. Even as independent as she had always been, she needed his commanding presence, lust and strength. It fueled all of those things within her as well. His needs fed her needs. Her eyes moved to the door. She grinned. There he stood, leaning against the doorjamb, arms crossed over his muscled chest. He looked angry—the edges of his mouth turned down and narrowed eyes fixed on her undulating body. 

“Hello, lover.­” Her words were a raspy purr of arousal. 

Samael, her lover and the object of her lusts, filled the doorway with his presence. Samael, with his lithe, muscular body, tattoos on his arms, long, dark hair that fell past his shoulders, and when angry, eyes so dark they were fathomless against his paler skin. He was her dark demon, the possessor of her very being, her soul. He continued to stand there, arms crossed over his chest. Samael’s dark eyes turned hazel as they slowly traveled her body to focus on her fingers, which continued to thrust in and out of her pussy. The change in eye color was a sure sign of his rising lust, a hue she was well acquainted with and wanted … no, craved to see. 

"I ordered you to wait, Lili." She heard the impatience in his voice. 

Biting back a small moan, she arched her back up off the bed, her eyes still connected with his as her fingers curled to stroke her g-spot. 

"You order me to do a lot of things, Sami. I don't always listen." 

He gave a low warning snarl. A groan from her was the response he received. He hated when she shortened his name from Samael to Sami. Her eyes moved down his body with leisure, exploring every nuance that made up the fabulous male standing before her. The black t-shirt fit his muscled form well, along with the black jeans that did little to hide his huge hard-on. 

"You protest, yet your cock is enjoying the attention I'm giving myself. Seeing as you were late, I thought it would be okay to start without you. Honestly, do you think I would rather have your cock or my fingers?" All the while, her fingers continued to plunge into her tight core, her legs bent on the bed as she arched her back. She splayed her legs out before him so that he saw every thrust. 

"Lili, you're just begging to be spanked." She shivered and ran her tongue over her bottom lip. His words sparked more need than fear. His approach was leisurely as he watched her continue to pleasure herself. She moved her free hand between her spread thighs and tugged at her clit. "Stop your fingers now. Remove them or you'll not get what you want from me." 

With measured deliberation, Liliana pulled her fingers from her pussy. Keeping her eyes on Samael, she slowly, teasingly licked them clean. His eyes narrowed, and Liliana smirked. "You didn't say I couldn't taste." 

"Remove the fucking dress, Lili. Do it quickly, or you will not get a chance to come as you need to. Then get your pretty little ass on your knees and hold on to the headboard." His words quickly wiped the smirk off her face. She didn't say anything as she got to her knees and slipped the sundress off, tossing it to the floor. With one last look of feigned defiance, she turned to settle on her knees with her hands clutched to the headboard. The rustling of his clothing filled the otherwise silent room, and then they were skin to skin. His cock, hard and throbbing, pushed against the crease of her ass as his body pressed close to hers from behind. 

Her breath caught in anticipation of his touching her as she craved. She did not say a word. If Liliana tested him, he would follow through on not letting her come. That could not happen; she wanted him bad. A soft mewl slipped from her lips as the head of his cock stroked along her dripping entrance. Her hands tightened on the headboard when he pressed into her. His lips were only an inch from her ear as he spoke with what could only be devilish delight.

Website - Twitter - Facebook - Goodreads

A lover of romantic fiction since the age of twelve, and wanting to write it just as long, my dreams have finally come true.  I have several works in progress.  I write erotic romance with interracial elements.  But please don't box me in as there is so much out there to write.

Sweet Hell (by Rosanna Leo)

Amazon - B&N

Sweet Hell rating:  4 out of 5 stars

Release Date:  July 16, 2012

This book takes place after "For the Love of a God" 

yet is not part of a series and can be read as a stand-alone story.

How are the sex scenes?

Delicious!!! Made me feel all squirmy!!  Rosanna just gets the balance right. You are so invested in the relationship between the characters that the sex is fabulous, and well worth waiting for.

How are the story lines?

Original. The story picks up well from the first book For the Love of a God. Once again, you are deposited into a fanciful world where the Greek gods of the past amble through downtown Toronto.

Would you read it again?

Yes.  I thoroughly enjoyed the frivolity of this book!  

Summary

Impertinent Dionysus, Greek god of wine and theatre and the world’s ultimate playboy, is used to a life of adoration, debauchery and very few responsibilities. Life had been good. He is still quite astonished by his formidable cousin Eryx’s transformation from Greek god to human, to marry his love, Maia. Dionysus could sense restlessness within him though. What is even more surprising is his recent disquiet at his carefree, bacchanalian lifestyle. Surely being a god was enough?

Independent and sparky, Josie Marino is the antithesis of the women Dionysus normally took to bed. Scruffy, mouthy and down to earth, Josie has dreams of owning a Winery. However, serving coffee and baking cannolli is the current extent of Josie’s life. Yet, all that is about to change. Despite acknowledging that the aggravating, demanding yet sexy customer from hell, Dionysus, is one lothario she wants to steer clear of, his persistent attention causes more than just X-rated dreams! Trouble is around the corner, or in this case, downstairs in the basement.  

Review

If you’ve read For the Love of a God, and loved it, you need to read Sweet Hell. Author Rosanna Leo has managed to create another story that keeps you interested, makes you laugh and, at times, tingles your toes! Leaving downtown Toronto, you travel to the bowels of hell, which naturally is not a place you wish to be. You will once again enjoy wit, colourful descriptions and a brief re-visit to Olympus.

The book is very similar in its plot line to the first in the series. In some ways, this is disappointing, but in many ways understandable, too. It seems self sacrifice is a strength that these Greek gods possess despite their initial complacency and disregard for ‘mere mortals.' (Secretly, I think we need more men like this!!)

The volatile dialogue between the characters adds to the enjoyment, as well as the regular, funny profanities involving Hera. “…by Hera’s rectum…” is just one example.  The sex scenes definitely have you eagerly wanting more.

“Then he situated himself between the legs spread so willingly…for him….Filling himself to the brim with her womanly juices. Drinking her in as eagerly as he’d so often drunk the finest wines, he could conjure. After Josie, those wines would taste like swill”

“Dionysus chuckled as he sucked, clearly enjoying what he was doing to her. He ate her as if he were ravenous, moaning and sighing as he did so”

Sigh! This book is entertaining. If you are after a light, witty read, you will enjoy Sweet Hell.  It takes you on a journey into fantasyland that is well worth the visit.   

 Learn more about Rosanna Leo and her upcoming titles on her website, Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads.

This review provided by:

Published by Liquid Silver Books

Disclaimer:  No compensation was received for this review.

ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review.

Dancing With Danger (by Laura Sheehan)

Amazon - B&N

Dancing with Danger rating:  3.5 out of 5 stars

Read a Sample

Release Date:  May 1, 2012

How are the sex scenes?

There is an adequate amount in the book, and nothing erotic.

How are the story lines?

The stalker story line is good and the most complete, my favorite part of the book. The sub-story lines confused me. I felt there were holes in character backgrounds and wondered if there was a book I should have read first (there isn’t).  

Would you read it again?

Will I read this book again, hmm, if Laura Sheehan wrote a sequel I might read it again before reading the sequel, but otherwise no.  I would try another Laura Sheehan book again given the opportunity.

Summary

Late one night while on patrol, Marc and his partner get a call on the radio to be on the lookout for a gray sedan, with a woman driving – the driver was a suspect in a crime. They spot a car and driver that meets the description, and pull over the driver.  Marc takes the lead in the questioning, and looking into her eyes, he knows she isn’t involved. The name on her license says Lily Brookstone.  A call comes over the radio that the suspect is being followed and backup is needed.

Marc drives by a coffee shop and recognizes Lily’s car.  On a whim he goes in for a cup of coffee. They make a date for a few days later.  That night Marc is at a bachelor party, he is mesmerized by one of the dancers.  Her eyes and lips remind him of Lily. When Lily realizes Marc has recognized her she runs. At the end of the night Lily gets to her car to find Marc. After an amazing kiss they decide to get ice cream.  When they return to her car the windows were shattered, tires slashed, all the lights broken with a threat written in lipstick.

Review

Dancing with Danger is not the book to read when you want to relax before bed. It is a suspense story with a romantic element. The suspense plot of book is not obvious, and towards the end will keep you reading past your bedtime.  

What makes it different is that Laura Sheehan is a dancer, and this is quite evident in the Lily’s dance scenes at the strip club. The descriptions given to these dancing scenes left nothing to my imagination.  

I wish as much detail was given to Lily and Marc’s relationship – I feel their relationship plot was rushed.  Yes a couple can fall in love in one week; however I just really did not feel the connection Marc and Lily were said to have. 

Dancing with Danger is a good romantic read from an author with a different voice.

Learn more about Laura Sheehan and her upcoming titles by visiting her website, Facebook and Twitter.

 This review posted by KAME

Kame is a Mom and teacher. Her Nook is never far. Kame is hard pressed to pick a favorite book, genre or author.  As long as there are characters that make want to sit down and have an ice tea with them, she’ll read it. When she isn’t reading she can be found volunteering for her children’s activities or baking.

Published by Red Sage Publishing

Disclaimer:  No compensation was received for this review.

ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review..

GIVEAWAY: Empty Net (by Toni Aleo)

Amazon - B&N

Book #3 of The Assassins Series

(The Assassins is a fictional hockey team based in Nashville, TN)

Release Date:  September 2, 2012

Enter Below to Register to Win

Toni's Grand Prize

Back of the Book

Definition of an Empty Net: When a team pulls the goalie for an extra attacker, desperately seeking a goal. 

Audrey Parker was in a horrible place. She hated her job, her sister was getting married and moving out, but worst of all, she was in love with a total jerk. No matter what she did, every guy she met hurt her. All she wanted was her happily ever after. Her Prince Charming. Her Lucas Brooks! She didn’t know how to change her life but she knew she needed too.Feeling like she was about to hit rock bottom, Audrey wakes up next to Tate Odder. 

Tate Odder had lost everything. After being brought up from the Assassins’ farm team, the Florida Rays to the Nashville Assassins, Tate hopes he’ll forget everything he has lost. He doesn’t. Each day gets harder to live in a place he doesn’t know. Even being the first rookie goalie to shut out an opposing team three times during the Lord Stanley Cup Finals, he still felt empty. With the loss of his parents and sister still heavy on his heart, Tate isn’t sure how to live like everything is okay. 

But when he wakes up beside Audrey Parker, things start to change. She turns his life upside down with her kooky sense of humor and her bright clothing. She is intelligent and beautiful, and for once, he doesn’t feel empty. 

Will Audrey be the person to fill the holes in Tate’s heart, making him whole again? 

Or will another player ruin everything, leaving him feeling forever like an empty net?

Guest Post

... ... ...

Toni's sick today. (And several consecutive days prior to this.)

Big bowl of chicken noodle soup to you, Toni.  Sick happens and we're secretly really happy it's not us.

The Nashville Predators play against the St. Louis Blues on September 25th and here's wishing you a healthy, happy and triumphant Bridgestone Arena experience.

Now on with the blog post!  

Instead of spinning clever Empty Net tidbits myself...I'll let Toni's fans do it.

5 Reasons to Read Empty Net

"Hands down my favorite in the series." 

- Flyersgirl via Amazon

"All I want to know is how I can find my own Assassin player..."

- Melissa via Amazon

"Will a 1 night stand end up in Happily Ever After or will both Audrey's and Tate's secrets from the past keep them apart?"

- TobiForgetHousework via B&N, posted 9/15/2012

"Fantastic epilogue that hinted to the story in the next book and definitely had me wanting more!!!"

- Mariann via Goodreads

"OMG OMG OMG..."

- Adriana Noriega via Goodreads

Not Enough?  

See what Toni Aleo's Author's Angels booktour has to say:

9/10/2012 - Nose in a Book

9/10/2012 - Redheads Review it Better

9/11/2012 - Mrs. Condit & Friends Read Books

9/12/2012 - Harlie's Books

9/13/2012 - Queen of the Night Reviews

9/14/2012 - Under the Covers Book Blog

9/15/2012 - Blackraven's Erotic Cafe

9/16/2012 - Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

9/17/2012 - Rumor Has It

9/18/2012 - Ravishing Romances

9/19/2012 - My Secret Romance

9/20/2012 - Reviews by Molly

9/21/2012 - My Odd Little World

Complete the form below for 

Toni's Grand Prize

Comment below  to wish Toni a speedy recovery!  From one Nashville girl to another, it's really great to host Empty Net on Ravishing Romances.
Learn more about Toni Aleo, her social media and upcoming titles here.

Every Breath She Takes (by Norah Wilson)

Amazon - B&N

Every Breath She Takes rating:  4 out of 5 stars

Release Date:  September 4, 2012

"This is actually a reissue of my award-winning Lauren's Eyes, a western-set, sensual romantic suspense with paranormal elements.  Revised, retitled, and sporting a more genre-appropriate cover, it's ready for its second debut!" 

- Norah Wilson, from her website

How are the sex scenes?

Plentiful, sweet, romantic, lustful and realistic.

I especially loved the oral scene.

It is endearing and charming and exactly what a hero and heroine should be.

How are the story lines?

The romance and suspense share the plot perfectly.  

The characters act within reason and the heroine is strong.  

Would you read it again?

I had to.  My book hangover lasted three days with this one and a re-read was required to move on.

Back of the Book

Veterinarian Lauren Townsend's psychic ability didn't just earn her pariah status in her hometown; her "freakishness" cost her a fiance and her faith in love.  But after foreseeing a murder - through the killer's eyes - she is compelled to trace the victim to a sprawling ranch, never imagining what waits for her there...

Cal Taggart's life doesn't need any more complications.  His stubborn determination ruined his marriage and now it just may cost him his ranch.  But then beautiful Lauren enters his corral - and rugged Cal wants nothing more than to protect her.  They can't deny their intense attraction.  Nor do they want to.  What begins as a fling with no strings attached becomes a fight for survival - and for true love.

Review

Every Breath She Takes by Norah Wilson is a contemporary romantic suspense novel based in Alberta, Texas.

Cal Taggart is a chivalrous and good-hearted hero who's a tad too nice to his idiot ex-wife.  He also has daddy and love problems that cause him self-esteem issues.  He's a protector, but I hesitate to call him an alpha male, because he's in charge, yet not controlling.  

Lauren Townsend makes the story.  Having suffered through premonitions most her life, she's fed up with waiting for victims to die because she can't identify them.  She hops on a plane, takes vacation she saved up for her cancelled wedding and plants herself in the center of Cal's ranch determined to save the life she knows will be at risk.

The perfect thing about this: Norah never lets Lauren stray from her purpose.  

This is a romance novel - Lauren finds someone to do, but Norah keeps her heroine on point, thereby creating a consistently strong character.  Cal has the "issues" in this story, because Lauren's main goal won't allow her to wallow in self-pity for longer than three sentences.  

Lauren's busy saving someone.  If that means she must hurt Cal's feelings and not stroke his ego then so be it.

There's a wonderful father/son element to this story.  Usually parental involvement dampers a romance novel to me - but Norah makes it enhance the hero/heroine relationship.  Smart writing.

After page 200 there are twists and turns and action with HUGE plot revelations.  Not once did I contemplate setting this book down.  I couldn't.  

The entire story ends on a steady upswing making Every Breath She Takes a romance reader's paradise.

You liked it.  Why didn't it receive 5 stars?

If I disliked the ex-wife any more I wouldn't have been able to read the novel.  Then I would really hate her because she would've kept me from reading an exceptional book.

This is a personal preference, though.  Personally, I prefer my almost-villains to have a redeeming quality.

 Find out more about Norah Wilson and her upcoming titles on her website, Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads.

Read Norah's interview with USA Today

Published by Montlake Romance

Disclaimer:  No compensation was received for this review.  ARC received from author.

Music City's RWA Meetings: Even Non-Writers Belong

Set the stage...

It's mid-morning, I'm running late and make it to my first Music City Romance Writers meeting just in time to nab a seat front and center because, like most meeting-goers, these women prefer to sit as far back as possible.

Like I said, I was late.  I sat in front.

MCRW Member C.J. Redwine's debut YA Urban Fantasy novel 

published 8/28/2012 by Harper Collins

Enter several published, soon-to-be-published and so-amazing-I'll-definitely-get-published authors.  Everyone was exceedingly friendly (a romance industry trend all should be proud of), they handle some chapter business and get down to the visitor recognition.

...they saw me.  Still sitting front and center.  :)  But I introduced myself as an intern at Entangled (which makes me sound more important than I actually am) and owner of an anonymous romance blog.  

MCRW Member Jody Wallace's latest paranormal novel

published 7/31/2012

Then they start member announcements.  They actually had announcements. 

One member whips out a folder and proudly displays her new novel cover art. She writes sexy stories and she's elderly.  I think it's amazing and am confident her life is more interesting than mine.  

MCRW Member Angela Britnell's contemporary romance novel

released 7/21/2012 by Desert Breeze Publishing

Another member mentions she's number 24 on the USA Bestseller list. (Anyone know who that is?  Come on.  Two guesses.)  Another author's having her book published in different languages and I think one author was going to a book signing at Barnes & Noble once she left today.

I did well, my fangirl didn't really show until I shook author Jenna Bennett's hand.  And in my defense - she's Jenna Bennett.  I can only be exposed to so much awesomeness before combusting.  

MCRW Member Jenna Bennett's novel

published 7/20/2012 by Entangled Publishing

Impressive Bennett Fact #1: She wrote a novel in 13 days

Jenna Bennett took the floor and gave a very good talk on branding.  Authors, brand yourselves.  Brand your names or your faces, your series or your characters, but brand something so that when readers see it - they know what they're getting.  When you're recognizable you sell better.  

Julieanne, I'm talking to you.

It was great and I learned a lot while sitting in the midst of some serious writing talent.

Next month, Music City Writers is holding a Mini Annual Conference for its members.  

If you're a member of RWA and want to attend this conference (which you really should) you can join Music City Writers for $30 here.  

Pay the membership plus the attendance fee ($20, I think, but if you're interested email me and I'll find out for you) and you can attend workshops, pitch your manuscript and meet other writers, photographers and publicists.  

Here's a list of workshops:

Stacy Abrams: Senior Editor, Entangled – Q&A session about Entangled Publishing  

JT Ellison – From Research to Revision, How to Build a Book  

Trish Milburn – Call Me Poseidon: My Three-Pronged Approach to Publishing  

Vania Stoyanova – What Makes Effective and Awesome Book Trailers and Covers  

Maryglenn McCombs – The Dos and Don’ts of Successful Book Promotion

If you live near here or can travel, this seems like something worth attending. Heck I don't even write and I might do it.  

And for those of you attending Moonlight & Magnolias on October 5-7, Trish Milburn is giving her workshop Call Me Poseidon: My Three-Pronged Approach to Publishing there, too.   

Music City Writers is a chapter with vision, talent and most important of all - members who want to do something.  Joining this group can only bring good things.

Guest Blog & Giveaway: Author Rosanna Leo on her novel "The Selkie"

One Commenter and One Commenter/Blog Follower will win an eBook copy of

"THE SEKLIE"

(be sure to leave your email - winners chosen by Random.org)

Amazon - Liquid Silver Books

Release Date:  September 2, 2012

THE LURE OF THE SEA

     My newest paranormal romance is entitled The Selkie. For those of you who might not have heard about these mystical creatures, they are seal shape shifters who generally originate from the Scottish isle of Orkney. It is said that if a mortal woman is unhappy with her love life, she need only cry 7 tears into the sea to call an immortal selkie man. He will then love her as no mortal man can.

     Sounds good, non?

     As I was writing this story, I began to wonder about the lure of the sea. You see its influence everywhere in popular culture, and that influence has been felt for centuries. Take a glance at Pre-Raphaelite paintings, and you will see all sorts of water nymphs. Pick up a book of classic fairy tales, and mermaids abound. And every year or so, another Hollywood movie details the plight between a mortal lover and someone finny.

     Why is that?

     The sea has always been a romantic figure, almost a persona unto itself. It represents lovers who’ve been separated by water. It reminds us of sailors who’ve drowned, leaving their broken-hearted wives behind. And, of course, there are countless tales of water gods dragging their abducted princesses down to the watery depths.

     The sea is fantasy. It reminds us of that which we cannot have, that which we dare not wish for. I must admit, I’ve always wanted to find Atlantis. Preferably on the arm of a dishy merman!

     Selkie folks straddle the great divide which is the sea. They can appear as beautiful humans, living on land for a time. Despite that, they will always want to return to their beloved waves. For a woman who falls in love with a selkie man, this can be a daunting prospect to say the least. I hope you will get a chance to read The Selkie, and see what happens to my heroine, and how she deals with her immortal lover.  Will the lure of the sea ultimately claim him, too?

                                              - Rosanna Leo

   

Blurb

This was supposed to be her year. However, after losing her job and discovering her fiancé cheating, Maggie Collins has her doubts. When her grandmother dies, she hits rock bottom. Maggie travels to her grandmother’s home in Orkney, Scotland to sort through her gran’s things, only to discover the old woman has left her a seal pelt as her inheritance. She also learns that others are after the pelt.

To add to her frustration, Maggie’s dreams are filled with luscious images of a long-haired man, images that draw her to the magical beaches in Orkney. Although she’s lost her trust in men, this dream man inspires her with a lust she’s never known before.

Calan Kirk has also been dreaming. Dreaming of Maggie, the mortal woman who arouses him as no other woman ever has. Meeting her in the flesh when she arrives in Orkney is nothing short of spontaneous sexual combustion. But she is a human, and not to be trusted. He needs the seal pelt, not a red-haired temptress.

As a thief ransacks Maggie’s grandmother’s house, Maggie and Calan are thrust together. They must search for the animal skin, a mythical relic which once found, will either bring them together or rip them apart forever.

Excerpt

She was attempting to stand on her wobbly legs, only to fall back down on her bottom, when she heard the sound of splashing water. Thinking it was her seal, Maggie turned to look.

Her breath caught in her throat. It wasn’t the animal at all.

It was a man. He was rising out of the waves, walking toward her. She froze. He was nude, utterly nude, and was staring at her with overflowing intimacy. As if they’d had, God help her, relations.

And she realized, with sudden panic, they’d had! In her dreams. He was the seal-man from all her sex dreams.

No. Impossible.

Her first instinct was to call for help, but there was no one near. And then she realized with frightening awareness that she didn’t want any help anyway. Glued to her spot, she couldn’t help but drink him in.

He was beautiful, if unnervingly wet and naked. He had long, shiny, brown hair that hung down past his shoulders. His face could have belonged on an ad for expensive cologne, and he had a body to match. Sculpted shoulders gave way to arms corded in muscle. His defined chest was blanketed by a smattering of sparse, brown hair that led tantalizingly to his rock-hard abs.

Maggie held her breath as her gaze traveled lower on his body, taking in trim calves and thighs a quarterback would envy. And, she noted with simultaneous hunger and horror, his penis was the biggest she’d ever had the pleasure of seeing. It was thick and long and glistening with the droplets of water that yet cascaded over his body. And it seemed to be reaching for her. She gulped, and forced herself to look back up at his face.

There was a faint glow about his skin, a shimmery aura. Dismissing it as a trick of the moonlight, she shook her head.

He was almost upon her, and his full lips were taut in a teasing grin. Maybe he was a surfer who’d lost not only his board, but his shorts in the waves. She knew she should be frantic, but wasn’t. There was something in his brown eyes that was so familiar, so soothing, even as they swept over her own body with lustful appreciation.

He stopped in front of her, and stood boldly, unashamed of his glorious nakedness. She managed to spit out one hushed word. “You.”

“You,” was his equally awed reply.

Learn more about Rosanna Leo and her upcoming titles on her website, Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads.

Rosanna's hanging out at Ravishing Romances today! 

Ask a question, get an answer and be entered to win her new novel, The Selkie, free from Amazon (via email...so leave yours)