Isabella's Dilemma by Anna James

Author: Anna James

Title: Isabella's Dilemma

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Publisher:
Sugar and Spice Press

Purchase Here

Format: ebook

BLURB:

Isabella Sheridan has a big problem and his name is Jake McAllister! Jake is now Isabella’s business partner. To make matters worse he owns more of the Sheridan Advertising Agency than she does. He is difficult to work with, has a hostile attitude toward her and makes business decisions without consulting her. So why does she respond with so much passion when he kisses her?

Jake McAllister does not like Isabella Sheridan. As far as he’s concerned she’s shallow and without moral values, both in her personal and professional life. So why is he so attracted to her? You’d think he’d know better based on past experience. And why, after just one passionate kiss, is he ready to give her the benefit of the doubt and become involved?

Will Jake and Isabella resolve their differences and find love or will past perceptions be too much to overcome?

Watch the Trailer:

EXCERPT:

Amy glared at her and she glared back, a mutinous look on her face. You wouldn’t look at me that way if you knew what he thought of me, she told her cousin silently. He’s a lousy rat! How dare he think so badly of her? And she never would have known if she hadn’t overheard a conversation he was having in his office one day. As a matter of fact, it was that conversation that had made her finally decide to leave the agency altogether. Well, it hadn’t been her only reason for leaving, she conceded wryly, but it was the final straw as far as she was concerned. He actually thought she was sleeping with their clients! She still couldn’t believe it. Had he always thought so little of her?

Her mind drifted back to the first time she’d met him. It had been at a Christmas party. Her father threw one every year for his employees. In addition to the advertising agency, her father had numerous other business interests. Jake had been there as a representative from one of them. She’d been eighteen on that occasion and had just started her first year at college. He’d been introduced to her as one of her father’s protégés; a financial wizard with a reputation of a man that got the job done—no matter what. He was the person her father was counting on to turn around his latest acquisition. There had been something about him, even back then, that had affected her on the most basic level, she admitted now. But, to him, she’d meant nothing. She had been merely someone to be polite to if he wanted to get ahead in her father’s organization. She hadn’t seen much of him since then, until recently, as he had never been involved with the advertising agency in the past. He was now, though, and she still didn’t know why. Compared to his responsibilities within the rest of Sheridan Industries, running the advertising agency was small peanuts.

But they were business partners now it seemed. It was a shock finding out that Jake not only worked for her father, but, was actually his business partner; owning a significant chunk of stock in the agency as well as the rest of the business empire. Which was why he was able to force me out in the first place, she thought angrily. He didn’t force you out, a little voice inside her taunted. You left of your own accord. “He’s an extraordinary man,” her father used to say. “Not only in the business sense but personally as well.” Maybe you thought so, Dad, but I certainly don’t!

“Care to dance?”

Isabella looked up with a start. She had been so preoccupied with her memories that she hadn’t realized anyone was talking to her. “I’m sorry. What was that?” She looked around her nervously. “And where are Amy and Nick?”

“On the dance floor,” Jake replied dryly, his eyes leading hers to where their figures were swaying together in time to the music.

“Which is why I asked if you’d like to dance.”

“With you?” she mocked. “Why don’t you ask your lady friend? I’m sure she’d be more than happy to join you.”

“Why Isabella, if I didn’t know better I’d think you were jealous.”

Her eyebrows arched. You’ve got to be kidding, she thought derisively, and was about to say just that when a thought occurred to her. Her lips curved mischievously. “Why, Jake, I’d love to dance. I thought you’d never ask,” she replied sweetly, and standing, led the way on to the dance floor.
If Jake was surprised he didn’t show it. He simply took her in his arms and they began to sway in time to the music. A tingling sensation ran down Isabella’s spine when his hand came in contact with her back. It felt—No! She dismissed that thought right from her head.

“Isabella, I’d like to talk to you about something,” he began. “It’s about Sheridans.”

The sensual sound of his voice washed over her and she leaned in closer to him. “I’m listening.”

If he noticed anything different about her behavior, he didn’t let on. “Yes, I’d like—”

She inhaled deeply and let her hand glide up his arm and come to rest on his shoulder, pressing her body against his lean frame. “What is that cologne you’re wearing?” she asked breathlessly. “It smells wonderful.” When her head came to rest on his chest, his whole body tightened in response.

“Isabella,” he grated through clenched teeth. “I don’t know what you’re playing at, but I’m warning you…”

She looked up at him, her blue eyes wide and luminous, and her lips parted and kissably soft. “Jake,” she whispered breathlessly.

“Isabella,” he warned again.

This really was quite intoxicating, she acknowledged somewhere in the far reaches of her brain. She could easily… Don’t blow it now, she told herself sternly. In a few seconds you can toss him a dirty look and tell him exactly what you think of him!

Without warning his lips crushed hers in a passionate kiss. It took her totally by surprise and shocked her to her very core. Which is why she began kissing him back with a hunger that not only matched his—it surpassed it! My God! I’ve never been kissed like this in my whole life, she thought dazedly. Had never responded to a man like this, ever. She could feel the blood as it raced through her veins; hear it roaring in her ears. Her heart beat wildly. She was on fire with desire. Helplessly she clung to him. She couldn’t think; didn’t want to think, only feel…

Reality set in. This isn’t supposed to be happening, she thought frantically. She’d just wanted to teach him a lesson, for goodness sakes. Yet here she was practically devouring the man. Oh God! She didn’t even like Jake McAllister. She couldn’t possibly want him…could she? No! She ripped herself free from his embrace. “What do you think you are doing?” she asked in an anguished voice. What had happened to her just now? She had lost complete control of the situation. Jake had kissed her, but her reaction to that kiss—to him— Panic set in and she turned and fled the dance floor without waiting for his response.

He raced after her and caught up with her on the street outside. Grasping her shoulder, he whirled her around to face him.

***

To find out more about Anna James and her writing:

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***Ebook Giveaway***

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Dragon Wish by Judith Leger

Magical Words

I guess that is the only way I can describe my writing. I want others to see the magic in the world, not just children and young people but everyone.

I will have new release out from Wild Child Publishing. Dragon Wish, my full length fantasy romance, is what I would call the book of my heart. It took me over 3 1/2 years to write this story. When I finished, I just didn't want to send it out into the big bad world, but I did and now everyone can visit my magical world of Avaris.

May all discover the blessings that come to us every day!

Author: Judith Leger

Title: Dragon Wish

Publisher: Wild Child Publishing

Purchase:

Publisher

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BLURB:

A vision, a wish, and a journey plagued by evil.

Cold, desolate cliffs and a white dragon’s blue gaze captures Seren Jordan in a terrifying vision. A universe away, Paladin Fulcan--prince, captain, and sorcery-shadowed seed of dragonkind--struggles to overcome his grief during the long journey to where he must bury his wife and son. Seeing a shooting star, he violates all the laws of the dragonseed: he makes a wish.

A dragonseed's wish can open the gates between realities, can alter fate. But has fate itself decreed this wish? For the throne-less dragonseed's destiny is entwined with that of a mortal mate; their son is fated to be the One True Dragon King to rule over all the dragons. But not all dragons are content to accept one rule, and the rebels quietly gather allies to prevent the birth of Seren's baby.

EXCERPT:

Birds appeared on the outer edges of her vision. She shifted her gaze. She watched the wings moving, brilliant white down and bluish gray up. Their feathers along with their shapes reminded her of the herons she often saw in the bayous and marshes around New Orleans. She smiled. The reminder brought wonderful memories of growing up in the Crescent City.

Every summer her parents would take her to beach on Pontchartrain Lake. Water, sand, and sun had covered her from head to toe. She’d loved the summer months with picnics in the park. They’d feed the pigeons in Jackson Square. Then when she’d grown and had her child, she’d done the same for her. She smiled at the memories.

Soft footsteps approached her from behind. The touch of a warm palm on her neck soothed her. A second later, the cushion dipped from the person sitting.

Paladin’s deep voice warmed her more than the sunlight. “You’re awake. You must be much better if you can smile.”

“What kind of birds are those? They look similar to ones on Earth,” she asked, not ready to face him.

Silence answered her for several moments.

When he leaned above her, he cast a shadow over her shoulder and chest. “They are not birds. Those are dracs, fledgling dragons. They are from my clan’s namesake.”

Surprised, she shifted closer to the window, studying the flying beasts. Small, with slender bodies, the creatures showed little to no resemblance to the beast from her vision. “Those are the dragons?”

She glanced at him. What she saw melted away her surprise. Golden strands lay against the high cast of his cheeks. Seren reached up and glided a fingertip across his bottom lip. His smooth, almost silky lips parted. She lowered her hand, returning her gaze to the window.

She struggled to keep her desire under control. Need pounded between her legs. When she spoke, she kept her tone even. “I don’t like the way you make me feel.”

“In what manner do you speak?”

“Heat, lust…passion.”

“Is that so terrible?” His voice had deepened.

She sighed. “For me, yes. I don’t want to feel those emotions. I wanted the vision to end. Desiring you doesn’t fit into the picture.”

“Desire is not bad.” He brushed the back of his hand over her cheek.

***

To find out more about Judith Leger's writing, please visit her at:
Website
Blog

An Interview with Alan Nayes

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS:
1) Links to website and list of books with purchase links.

Website

BARBARY POINT:
Amazon 
Barnes and Noble

GARGOYLES:
Amazon 

THE UNNATURAL:
Amazon

*GARGOYLES and THE UNNATURAL will be released on kindle soon!

2) How long have you been writing? What got you in to writing?

I started writing in college—which was…I’ll just say a “while back”-- but it was music. Very quickly I learned I couldn’t sing well—actually not at all--so I took a hiatus from writing until I moved to California where I took some classes in creative writing to relax. Little did I realize then that writing is anything but relaxing—for me anyway. Now reading, that’s relaxing.

3) What was your first published book? Looking back, is there anything you’d change about it?

GARGOYLES. Shannon, I don’t think I would change anything major though I might tweak the ending. However the way the book ends now leaves open the possibility of a sequel—which I plan to write. The title will be PLAGUE

4) What or Who has influenced your writing?

Successful authors—no name in particular—influence me, or more accurately inspire  me. I read a good book and find myself saying I want to write a story this good.

5) Where do you get your ideas?

Variety of sources—newspaper articles, scientific journals, people. For instance my biomed thriller, GARGOYLES was inspired by the research being conducted on the manipulation of the genetic code. The inspiration for BARBARY POINT came from an actual setting—a family cottage we own on the shores of Lake Winnebago. I always thought this would be a great place for a love story

6) What hinders your writing? (distractions? noise?)

I am my largest hindrance to my writing. No, really. If I’m in the right state of mind to write, I can write with the neighbor’s dogs barking, kids playing outside, just about anything—except perhaps an earthquake. But if I’m not in the mood, the house can be as quiet as a tomb and the words still don’t come. A tomb, huh. I could be onto something—a writer in a tomb and….

7) What genre are you most comfortable with? What would you like to explore?

I’m comfortable in a variety of genres—thrillers, horror, and romance though my romance is not the typical genre romance. I would like to write a really scary, scary story. That’d be fun.

8) Are you a by-the-seat-of-your-pants kind of writer, or do you have to use an outline to put your collective thoughts into some  semblance of common sense?

A little of both, Shannon. Before I start a novel, I know in general terms what direction the story is going to go, major plot points, and when they are supposed to happen. Having said this, however, the story never completely follows the broad outline—which is good I think—and there are always changes that spring up, either in character development or plot, that seem to take on a life of their own. That is the fun part of creating a story—fun only when it turns out to make the story better, of course. If the change becomes a deadend—well, that is what trash cans are for.

9) Which of your books is your favorite? Why?

I’d have to say GARGOYLES. It was the first novel I sold to a publisher and the protagonist, Amoreena Daniels, is my favorite character.

10) Do you incorporate some of yourself into your characters? Personality traits? Likes? Dislikes?

Speaking for myself, I think every writer incorporates some of themselves in their work. For me it would be hard not to. Afterall, the story and characters are extensions of the my imagination. It may not be much, but if I happen to relish a certain drink or meal or activity, it could very well show up in my story. As for characters,  I try not to—I’m kind of boring..lol—but truthfully I think it would be impossible to not incorporate some of myself in the chararcters I create. Even the evil villains? No!

11) What do you think is the perfect hero/heroine? Why? 

I think the perfect character must be likeable and make the reader want to root for them and care what happens to that character. If a hero or heroine is not likeable who gives a **** what happens to that character and consequently the reader may not finish the book. Though I must add, I’ve read novels where I sure didn’t care what happened and I finished them anyway. And if not likeable, a character should at least be interesting. It never hurts to have a lot of sex appeal, too.

12) Do you have any suggestions/comments for prospective authors?

Three words—persistence, persistence, persistence. And three more—Don’t give up! As long as you truly believe in your story you will eventutally find someone else who believes in that story. And keep writing—that is the only way you will become a better writer.

JUST FOR FUN:

1) What is the sexiest or most erotic thing someone has said to you?

That’s a tough one—I think I’ll have to make something up!

2) If you could be an animal, what would it be? Why?

I’d chose an extinct one—how ‘bout Tyrannosaurus Rex. I’d be king of the planet. Then anybody who didn’t buy my book I’d threaten to eat. Species would be lined up for miles to purchase my stories. Or…maybe a skunk. Then everybody would leave me alone. lol

3) If you had super powers, what would they be? Why?

Be invinsible—and master the art of time travel. I could visit the past and future without being—the perfect “fly on the wall.” Yeah, that would be pretty cool.

4) If you could be an immortal, what would you want to be? Why?

Hercules—then I would take Helen of Troy all for myself. Did they live at the same time? Hm…

5) If you could change three things in the world, what would they be? Why?

I’ll be more serious on this answer. We have some real problems out there. End war, hunger, and racism. Impossible? We’ll see…

6) What would be a perfect date for you?

A date where we both enjoyed each other’s company equally and to the max.

7) Is there anywhere you’d like to visit? Why?

Shannon, I still need to get to Hawaii. Because---IT’S HAWAII!

8) Do you have any obsessions? What are they?

No, no real obsessions. Possibly exercise—everyday I have to do something whether it’s running, jumping rope, ab work or weights. ( not much weights anymore—joints getting old)

9) Do you have a crush on any actor/actress? Who?

Not really, Shannon, though I admire plenty of them and their work. Women—Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Penelope Cruz, Sandra Bullock, to name a few

Men—who cares—just kidding—Denzel Washington, Robert Downy Jr, Leonardo Decaprio, too many others to name (John Wayne—loved Atari as a child—yeah, I know, really dating myself)

For both men and women, it depends a lot on the movie—and the script!

***
Be sure to check out the excerpt from Alan's book, Barbary Point!

Barbary Point by Alan Nayes

Author: Alan Nayes

Title: Barbary Point

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Self Published

Purchase:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble

Format: ebook

BLURB:
When Kelly English flies back to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to close out her father’s estate, the last thing on her mind is falling in love. Again. Kelly is twenty-eight and engaged to an older man who is quite wealthy. She’s happy, and only desires to make the trip back brief, sell her deceased father’s place, and return to her stable life in Los Angeles. However, while taking care of business in Oshkosh, Kelly meets a fishing guide, launching her on an emotional journey she never could have predicted or foreseen. BARBARY POINT is Kelly’s story of what happened that one magical week in May on the shores of Lake Winnebago when the ducklings hatch and the walleye run.

PROLOGUE

Mother always reminded me, “Kelly, love from the mind is nothing more than a pleasurable arrangement, whereas love from the heart lasts forever.”

I had listened to these same exact words beginning in junior high, again in high school, and throughout college. And it always worried me I might not be able to tell the difference.

A man I deeply loved once told me that a fish lunges after an artificial lure solely on instinct. He sees it, wants it, and zappo, he's hooked.

Love is a lot like that. You see someone you want, the chemistry is there, and zappo, you're hooked

EXCERPT:

ROCKAWAY ISLAND

Mitch cancelled his clients for Monday. He would later tell me he would have willingly cancelled his clients for the entire summer just to spend time together. He that much had fallen for me. And I for him.

I called my office as soon as I thought Gwen would be in, adjusting for the two-hour time difference.

 “Kelly, where the hell have you been? That Seagram account executive's been buzzing all morning,” Gwen ripped off immediately.

“I'm still in Oshkosh,” I said, picturing the company man with hair just a little too much in place, and a smile a little too phony. Last week I would have flown to Nepal, if that's what it took to nail down the liquor conglomerate's ad business. Today, all that seemed to matter was getting out on the water with Mitch and Sam. What had changed?

“Kelly?” Gwen's tone had softened considerably. “What's going on?”

“Don't worry.”

“Now I am worried,” Gwen said. “Seagram's not the only one's been calling.”

“Thomas?”

“Only say, five times.”

“I'll call him,” I said.

“Kelly?”

“Yes.”

“Take care of yourself.”

“I will. See you soon,” I said, and disconnected. For a long moment, I stood in front of the bay window and looked out over the lake. The chop was less than yesterday, definitely no whitecaps, but the water's blue shade had been replaced by a gray undertone, reflecting the overcast of the sky. Mitch had listened to the weather before breakfast. The forecast called for a forty percent chance of rain, with intermittent local thundershowers. The Mako had a top we could put up so the rain would be no problem.

I didn't relish calling Thomas, he would be angry, yet I knew it was the right, the only thing to do. Watching Mitch and Sam loading the boat, I supposed I should have felt at least a modicum of guilt about the last couple of days. I didn't, and this bothered me more than feeling any remorse at all.

As time passed forward, I would come to justify these feeling as an acceptance of a decision I hadn't really made, but had been made for me by circumstances beyond my control. An emotion as strong and powerful as love had divided thrones and started wars. What chance did a young woman have? None. I would never, could never, tell Thomas this, though. At least, not today.

“Hi, Thomas,” I said as soon as he answered.

“Kelly.” No Kell-bee this time. “I tried calling you all afternoon yesterday. I've been worried sick. When's your flight?”

“Oh, Thomas...”

“Are you in some kind of trouble?”

I'm in trouble all right. “No, hon. It's just taking me longer than I thought to close out Daddy's estate. How's the magazine? Gwen said Seagram's up in arms.”

“To hell with Seagram's.” His exasperation was clearly evident. “I'm flying out there today. We'll—”

“No, Thomas.”

“What do you mean, no?”

“I'm handling it. Thomas, you have to...” I caught myself wanting to say trust, but chose believe instead, “believe me. I'll be home... soon.”

“When?”

I was caught. I had to say something. “Thursday,” I said, calculating that would give me at least tomorrow and Wednesday for... what? I'd gone insane, that was it. Emotionally insane.

“We'll talk when I get home,” I finished.

When I hung up, I knew the engagement was on the ropes. I just couldn't come out and say it. Not yet. I gazed at the huge rock adorning my finger. How could events change so rapidly? Why can't I just pack up now and leave? Take the rental straight to Appleton, catch the next flight out, and get the hell on with my life. Just do it. Save yourself a ton of heartaches, girl.

    

Mitch and Sam were walking off the dock. Mitch saw me in the window and gave a little salute. Ship's set for sailing, ma'am. I smiled and saluted back, my effort not near as crisp or sharp. Maybe because this is my life. The here and now.

    

The ice chest was loaded with beer, sandwich meat, cheese sticks for snacking, a couple of apples, and candy bars. I brought along the bread and a bag of chips I'd found stashed in a cabinet above the dishwasher. We also took along the net, two fishing poles, and Gene's tackle box, just in case, Mitch said.

    

I sat on a cushion seat in front of the console, facing the bow, as the Mako sped north along the shoreline. The air whisking my hair off my face was cool and moist, and left me feeling clean and pure, as if I'd just been baptized. Mitch stood behind the wheel, a Packer's cap turned backward on his head. He looks like a merchant marine, I thought, strong and handsome. I felt his finger tap the top of my head, and saw him pointing. Not thirty yards off the starboard side, a flock of at least a dozen ducks were streaking parallel to the boat in perfect linear formation.

    

“Mallards?” I shouted.

    

Mitch grinned. “See, you're a waterfowl expert now.”

    

The mallards veered away after the Mako zipped past Roe Point for more open water. The hull bounced some, but not enough to make me or Sam, curled just behind the bow, uncomfortable.

    

I pulled a light jacket I'd borrowed from my father's closet tighter across my front. I heard Mitch rev the engine and felt a surge in acceleration.

    

Off my left shoulder I watched us pass the Pioneer Resort Marina, and then the mouth of the Fox River.

    

Mitch named off landmarks—Bray's Point, Miller Bay, Doemel Point, Menomenee Park,—as we sped north.

   

I saw boats fishing, sailboats, and several water skiers in wet suits.

    

I heard Mitch say, “You want to ski?”

    

“What's the water temperature?”

    

“Sixty-two.”

    

“I'll pass.”

    

“Wanna pilot?”

    

I waved. “I'm fine here. I just like watching the lake.”

    

“You sound like your dad.”

    

His words touched me somewhere deep in my chest, and I turned and leaned up on my knees and kissed Mitch. The choppiness of the water made my first attempt fall short, landing on his chin, but my next effort was right on the money. The kiss was brief, yet warmed me inside out.

    

“You're beautiful,” he said.

    

I didn't think I looked beautiful, with my hair all over the place, yet felt like a princess when Mitch told me.

***
To find out more about Alan Nayes and his writing, be sure to visit his website.

Also, don't miss his author interview where he gives us a peek into his writing style, his likes and dislikes, and his thoughts on being a Tyrannosaurus Rex.

Dark Passion Rising: A Dark Breed Novel by Shannan Albright

Author: Shannan Albright

Title: Dark Passion Rising: A Dark Breed Novel

Genre: Paranormal Romance / Urban Fantasy

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Purchase

Format: Ebook

BLURB:

Tambra Ellis has just had her world turned upside down! Surviving a bite from a Lycan, attracted to one hot vampire guy and now she has to look forward to turning into something from some bad werewolf movie.

Marcus Valerian has enough on his plate without the added complication of Tambra Ellis. Fiery and independent? Sure. Beautiful with a body made for sin? Oh Yeh. And a human cop. Tambra is everything he needs to stay away from.

As leader of the Tribunal’s enforcers it’s up to him to find out why the Dark Breeds are going feral and killing humans in ever increasing numbers. Tambra’s life is in the balance as the secrets of her past place her in the middle of old deceits and a betrayal that will change the world forever.

Will Marcus and Tambra’s love survive or will it be too late.

EXCERPT:   

Marcus moved to the door in a burst of speed, and stopped with his arms folded across his chest, lips compressed into a thin line as he glared at her.  He drew his brows low in a scowl.

“W…what the hell are you?” she stammered, unable to mask her unease.    

“I am not here to harm you.  I have been the one tending to you as your body adjusted.”      

“You haven’t answered my question,” she pushed.

“That’s because it’s not relevant to the situation.”

“Like hell, asshole.  If it affects me then it is my business.”

Marcus liked her toughness, finding it remarkably refreshing.  Her strength was impressive, not many could make it through the beginning stages of the change when turning from human to Were, yet she had fought through it.  She had overcome it all, despite how badly she had been injured. 

He used his most reasonable tone to calm her, knowing that the next few minutes was crucial to keeping her receptive to what he had to say.  He took a deep breath and let it out slowly, making his tone as calm as he could manage.  “At this time the only thing we need to focus on is your change.  You are not out of the woods as of yet.  There are too many things that could go wrong.”

Her eyes widened in horror as she took a shaky step backward.

“Oh, God.  This isn’t happening.  It can’t be real.  Werewolves don’t exist.”

“Believe me, they do exist.  Denying what you have seen will be foolish and dangerous, for you and everyone you’re around.”

“No.  I don’t believe this.  I won’t believe it.  There has to be some logical explanation for what I saw.”  The sharp edge of hysteria rose in her voice.  “I will not turn into a dog.   I don’t even like dogs.”

That made him smile despite the seriousness of the situation.  She was absolutely adorable and he was in deep shit because of it.  Yet, he couldn’t seem to make himself care. “Wolf, not dog.  You were bitten by a Lycan, not Lassie.”

“Ha, ha, laugh it up big guy.  You don’t have to worry about fleas.”

Laughter rumbled out of him, surprising him as much as it seemed to anger her.  Tambra stood in front of him, her golden hair tumbling wildly down her back, clutching the comforter tightly to her breasts.  Her blue eyes glittered with anger and Marcus fought the urge to pull her into his arms and stroke her soft, creamy skin.  He clenched his hands into fists and kept still.  She was still too pale, evidence of the weakness he knew was plaguing her but, damn, she was magnificent.  A true warrior, ready to fight regardless of the fact she couldn’t win. 

His blood headed south as he remembered stripping her out of her torn and bloody uniform, seeing her full breasts, tipped with pink nipples that begged him to take them into his mouth.  Her tiny waist smoothing into shapely hips and a firm and heart shaped ass.  He wondered how it would feel in his hands.  Her legs were long and lean, he wanted them wrapped around him while he filled her, wanted her screaming his name with her release.  She was heartbreakingly beautiful and though he knew it was wrong, he was sorely tempted to risk it just to feel her lips against his, her taste in his mouth.

That was not going to happen, he reminded himself, burying his attraction in the deep recesses of his being, where it could be locked down tight.

If Tambra survived the Rising, Fox would demand to take her, acclimatize her to her new existence, and teach her the laws of living under Lycan rule.  Marcus would never see her again.  

The one bright spot was that Zeke, their guru for all things tech, had found that Tambra had no living relatives.  No ties binding her to her old life as she adjusted to her knew one.  Her father was deceased and her mother had abandoned her when she was an infant. 

“This is not funny,” Tambra spat, her back straight, chin held high. “I will not be held against my will.  I’m a cop and people will look for me.  Do you want that kind of trouble?”

“You are already trouble.  Just by breathing,” he growled.  “You cannot leave here without an understanding of the world you are about to enter.”

“I get the feeling I’m getting deeper into that rabbit hole,” she sighed.  “So, I’m turning into a werewolf at the first full moon right?”

“Wrong.  You are becoming a Lycan.”  He held up a hand stopping her questions before they even got started.  “You were bitten by a Pure Blood, a Lycan.  In the Lycan world there is a structure much like that of a monarchy.  You have the Pure Bloods, the royalty, who rule their Breed.  If a Lycan bites a human, that turns the human into a Pure Blood, but if that same human bites another human, then they are called a Were since they have more human DNA than Lycan, and more limitations to what they can do.”

“Like what?

“Weres can only turn on a full moon, Lycan’s transformations are not limited.  It’s not only wolves either.  There are many types of Breeds in the shape shifting community that are identified as Weres and all have their own unique structure, yet it is only the wolves or Lycans that consider other Weres as beneath them.”  Marcus’s voice held bitterness.

“You don’t agree with this, I take it.”

“No.  I most definitely do not,” he stated firmly.

She tilted her head, studying him as she digested everything he just said.  His gut churned, instinct told him she was taking everything he had thrown at her too calmly.  She was up to something, but he couldn’t tell what.

“And what are you, Marcus Valerian?”

***

Find out more about Shannan Albright and her writing:

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In addition to her wonderful writing talent, Ms. Albright is also and awesome artist. Check out some of her beautiful oil paintings on the Dessert Diva's Kitchen blog today!

An Interview with Gabrielle Bisset

I'd like to extend a warm welcome to erotic romance author, Gabrielle
Bisset.

















Interview answers
1) Links to website and list of books with purchase links. Contact:
Blog
Website
Facebook
Twitter

Books:
Vampire Dreams-available now at Smashwords
Coming to Amazon and Barnes and Noble on June 10

2) How long have you been writing? What got you in to writing?

I've been writing for as long as I can remember. For a long time, it was involving things like the school newspaper and then academic writing while I was in undergrad and grad school, and fiction writing in private. Then a few years ago, I found I had so many ideas in my head for stories that the fiction writing overtook everything else and I decided to move it from my private life to public life.

I got into writing for the same reason most other writers do, I think. There were all these characters and ideas in my head just dying to get out, so I began to write them down and before long, they'd grown from snippets to full stories.

3) What was your first published book? Looking back, is there anything you’d change about it?

My first published book is a novella entitled Vampire Dreams, which was released on June 10. Initially, it was something I wrote to submit to Harlequin Spice Briefs. In early April, I submitted the story, but I never heard back from them--not even an auto-generated email to tell me they received it. At the time, I didn't realize I should expect one, but then a friend told me that Harlequin's submission process always involves an email to tell the author they received it. So, in fact, I never truly submitted it, even though I thought I did. :) Silly, but true. So I thought about it and decided to publish it myself. That meant expanding on the story since Spice Briefs requires novellas to be 15,000 words or less. The story that came out of that is so much better than the one I meant to submit, so I guess it was just fate.

4) What or Who has influenced your writing?

I love Robin Schone and Charlotte Featherstone. Their writing is so wonderful, and they've definitely influenced me. I can get lost in one of their stories and never want to come back! They're so good at immersing the reader in the time period they've chosen.

5) Where do you get your ideas?

My ideas often come from dreams. My first novel, Stolen Destiny, which is scheduled for release from Siren Publishing on June 29, grew out of a dream. I woke up one morning last summer and an entire idea for a paranormal romance was in my head. Of course, I quickly wrote it down before the day stole it from me. Then Vampire Dreams came from a dream also. The first few pages of that story are exactly what I dreamed. My second novella, Love's Master, which will be released in mid-July, came from a column in the Times of London called the Agony Column. It ran during the 1800s, and I'd heard about it. How can a writer not take a look at something called the Agony Column? As soon as I began reading the entries, one jumped out at me and from that, an entire story grew about a young widow who becomes involved with a mystery man involved in the underground sex world of BDSM in Victorian England.

6) What hinders your writing? (distractions? noise?)

I think what hinders my writing most is me. Sometimes I let myself fall into the self-confidence trap. It's only when I sit myself down and give myself a stern talking to that I snap out of that. I have a fantastic family and group of friends who are incredibly supportive, so they do nothing but help my writing.

7) What genre are you most comfortable with? What would you like to explore?

I'm most comfortable with paranormal romance and historical erotic romance. They just fit for me, especially the historical because I have a degree in history. I think I'd like to explore the BDSM genre a bit more. I did venture into that realm with Love's Master, but that would be considered light BDSM. In the future, I can see myself getting more into it, perhaps with another novella.

8) Are you a by-the-seat-of-your-pants kind of writer, or do you have to use an outline to put your collective thoughts into some semblance of common sense?

I'm definitely a plotter with my novella writing, but with my novels, I tend to be a bit of a panster through the first third or so of a book and then I plot out the rest. With the smaller size of novellas, I have to keep myself on an outline so the stories don't blow up into novel size.

9) Which of your books is your favorite? Why?

If I had to choose a favorite book of mine, it would be a toss up between Stolen Destiny and Vampire Dreams. I just love the characters in Stolen Destiny. Varek, Callia, and Amon will always have a special place in my heart because they were the first. And I truly love that story. It's the first story about the race of people I created, Aeveren, and from that book will come at least two more later this year and next year: Destiny Redeemed and Destiny Unbound. But Vampire Dreams was a labor of love about a subject I've adored for years: vampires.

10) Do you incorporate some of yourself into your characters? Personality traits? Likes? Dislikes?

One of my critique partners noticed that I never have a curly haired heroine, which is funny since I have naturally curly hair. I rectified that in Destiny Redeemed with Thea, a heroine who has long, blond curls. Other than that, I don't think I incorporate any of my traits into my characters, at least not consciously. Now for dislikes and likes, I think I can safely say that some of my characters' favorite things would be my favorite things. :)

11) What do you think is the perfect hero/heroine? Why?

The perfect hero is strong, smart, tough, slightly wicked, and flawed. Oh, and he has to be incredibly good looking. For heroines, I think the perfect one would also have to be strong and smart, but I like my heroines to be more together with their lives than many heroines out there. This might have to do with the idea of me incorporating my traits into characters, but I always have heroines who take care of business, whatever it may be. I can't respect sniveling and helpless characters. They just don't work for me.

12) Do you have any suggestions/comments for prospective authors?

I think the first thing I would tell a prospective author is to be a reader first, above all else. Then I'd tell them that good writing comes from attention to detail. This doesn't necessarily mean describing the green out of the grass, but it does mean the devil is in the details. That includes paying attention to grammar, spacial situations, chronology, and all the things that make up a good story. (Can you tell I've been an editor for a while?) Last, I'd tell them to listen to their heart. So much of writing is subjective. If you truly believe in your story, hone it well and present it with pride.

JUST FOR FUN:

1) If you had super powers, what would they be? Why?

If I could have superpowers, I'd want the ability to travel through and manipulate time. How incredible would it be to travel back to ancient Rome, the Renaissance, or any other time and see the people there firsthand? And manipulating it would just be wonderful in the most sinister way.

2) If you could be an immortal, what would you want to be? Why?

If I could be an immortal, I'd have to be a vampire. They're so deliciously sensual. I love that most about vampires.

3) Is there anywhere you’d like to visit? Why?

I'd love to visit Europe again. I lived in Germany for a while when I was in my early twenties, but I'd love to visit Italy, Spain, and Greece. I love the history of those areas, and the architecture is so incredible. And, of course, I'd like to visit Britain and Ireland, where my family hails from.

4) Do you have a crush on any actor/actress? Who?

I currently have a crush on the actor who plays Cesare Borgia in the Showtime series, The Borgias. I don't know his name (I'm not much of a stalker, am I?), but I can't see enough of that man. Thankfully, my cable company has On Demand so I can watch him whenever I want. Yummm.

***

Be sure to keep an eye out for Gabrielle Bisset and her upcoming novels, Stolen Destiny and Love's Master. Coming soon!