Giveaways

RAINE MILLER BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY AT THE AVENUE

WE ARE SUCH BIG FANS!!!
In honor of Raine Miller’s birthday, whom we love soooo much, we are giving away ebook copies of The Blackstone Affair Series to 2 winners which will run today till May 3rd, 11:59pm.
Enter the rafflecopter below. Goodluck!

The first book in the bestselling Blackstone Affair series

Naked desire. Secret satisfaction. An affair you’ll never forget.

Brynne Bennett has left scandal in her past and is living the good life. An American grad student at the University of London and part-time photographic model, she’s getting back on track with lots of hard work and focus on a career in art conservation. When London businessman Ethan Blackstone buys her nude portrait, he wants to possess more than just her image. He wants Brynne in his bed, serving him in every way possible. He has no trouble voicing his desires, and he isn’t taking no for an answer.

At first his dominant nature captivates her, but it isn’t clear if the force of his powerful desire will ultimately awaken or dispel the demons Brynne is carrying inside. There are secrets on both sides of this relationship—huge ones. Can Ethan erase the scars of Brynne’s past so that she can reveal her true self to him? Or will the shadows cast by Ethan’s own mysterious former life destroy their chance at happiness?

Naked is the sizzling, unforgettable story of what happens when a strong woman meets the one man powerful enough to strip away all her defenses, leaving her standing naked and perfect before him.

Ethan Blackstone has a problem on his hands. He’s broken Brynne’s trust and she’s left him. He’s unwilling to live without her and isn’t giving up—he’s dead-set on getting his beautiful American girl back. The passion between them was explosive, but the secrets they hid from each other are dark and chilling and are powerful enough to destroy their shot at a life together. With political threats now directed at Brynne, Ethan is running out of time and will need to gather all his strength and agility to protect her from the dangers that could take her away from him forever. Will Ethan be able to save Brynne from a past that keeps her locked in fear? Will he ever feel the warmth of her touch, the solidity of her trust again? This is a lovestruck man who is willing to do whatever it takes to possess the heart of the woman he loves. He’ll go to any lengths to protect her. He’ll go all in. Here is the fiery story of what happens when two people surrender to a love so great it can heal the scars of the past and give way to a life of pure, rapturous ecstasy.

Big surprises are on the horizon for Ethan and Brynne as they struggle to adjust to what life has thrown at them. Demons from the past are threatening to destroy the passionate bond they’ve forged despite their vow that nothing will ever keep them apart. A truly devastating loss coupled with the promise of a new hope opens their eyes to what is most important, but is it possible for the lovers to move on from the painful histories that continue to haunt them? A stalker is still lurking in the shadows, plotting evil amidst the distraction of the 2012 Olympic games in London. Brynne and Ethan are on the cusp of losing everything as the stakes rise. Will they yield to circumstances beyond their control or will they give every ounce of fight they have left to save each other and win the ultimate prize of a life together?

Eyes Wide Open is a passion-wrought story that shows us what pure love can achieve when tested and what the heart can accomplish despite danger and adversity.

A New York Times bestselling author who has been reading romance novels since she picked up that first Barbara Cartland book at the tender age of thirteen. And it’s a safe bet she’ll never stop, because now she writes them too. Granted, Raine’s stories are edgy enough to turn Ms. Cartland in her grave, but to her way of thinking a hot, sexy hero never goes out of fashion. Ever! Writing books pretty much fills her days now and she’s always busy. Raine has a prince of a husband, and two brilliant sons to pull her back into the real world if the writing takes her too far away. She loves to hear from readers and to chat about the characters in her books. You can connect with her on Facebook or visit her blog at http://www.RaineMiller.com to find out what she’s working on now.

More about Raine Miller

Q. What inspires your writing?

A. So many things. Art, a photograph, a portrait, poetry, movies, songs, books, historical events, notable people, a friend, a colleague…and the list is never-ending.

Q. Why do you like to write historicals?

A. I guess mostly because of the nostalgia of the past. It is an escape for me to think in a world where communication existed only in real face-to-face time or in a letter. Social graces were not only an art, but a survival skill. Interaction with another person was downright intimate in a way it can never be today. I also find great joy in writing my stories. It is as entertaining to write them as it is to be lost in a book you can’t set down.

Q. What is your favorite quote?

A. “I almost wish we were butterflies, and liv’d but three summer days. Three such days with you I could fill with more delight than fifty common years could ever contain.” JOHN KEATS…1819 (sigh) Need I elaborate?

Q. How do you plot out your stories?

A. I picture the scenes like a movie in my mind. I go on long walks with my ipod and just process through storylines in my head. As soon as I get home I run up to my computer and jot down my ideas so I don’t forget. I’ve worked through many a troublesome plotline while on a walk. Solitude works for me.

Q. Who are some of your favorite authors?

A. JR Ward, Megan Hart, Elizabeth Hoyt, Ken Follett, John Grisham, Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, John Keats, Robert Herrick…What I wouldn’t give to have all of those writers together in a room.

Q. What has becoming a writer taught you?

A. A healthy respect. That’s: R – E – S – P – E – C – T! I am humbled by anyone who wrote before the word processor and Google were invented. There’s no denying that writing is hard work, but to imagine how Jane Austen wrote Pride and Prejudice with a feather quill pen makes my brain hurt.

Q. Any pearls of wisdom for aspiring writers?

A. Write what you love–your voice will come through. Write every day–your creative mind needs exercise. Never give up your dream of becoming a writer. Everyone loves a good story and if you can write one, people will always want to read it
.

(special thanks to Amazon for the blurbs,  Author BIO and  Q&A; visit   http://www.amazon.com for details)




Promo Blitz: (Re-release) Love at 11 by Mari Mancusi Excerpt and Giveaways

Title: Love at 11 
Author: Mari Mancusi 
Genre: Contemporary 
Age Group: New Adult 
Re-release date: April 24, 2013 
Event organized by: AToMR Tours

When Maddy graduated from Columbia University, she was ready to change the world. She’d get a job at Newsline, meet a nice guy, and live happily ever after with a real designer handbag on her arm. Five years later, she’s stuck producing puff pieces for News 9 San Diego–where “if it bleeds, it leads.” She’s still single, her family’s falling apart, and so is her knock-off Kate Spade.

Then Jamie Hayes walks through her newsroom door. The former filmmaker is everything Maddy has ever dreamed of. Creative, smart, sweet—and with eyes that could make a girl melt. The perfect guy…but perfectly unavailable. And the more Maddy tries to stay away—the further she starts to fall.

Now a secret scoop from her favorite knock-off purse guy has Maddy chasing a lead that could make her career. Or destroy it forever. How far is she willing to go to broadcast the truth? And will this breaking news lead to a happily ever after…or a broken heart?

Stay tuned…it’s the story of a lifetime.

Jamie grunted contentedly and snuggled in a bit closer. Was he conscious? Could he possibly know whom he was holding in his arms? Maybe he had been completely aware of his actions this whole time. Had he been as drunk as I? I couldn’t remember. Was he a good guy who made a mistake or a jerk who liked to cheat on his fiancée by taking stupid, drunk girls home and screwing them?

I suddenly felt disgustingly dirty. Why had I been so easy? Slut girl: give her a drink and watch her spread her legs. Except, that wasn’t me at all. Hell, I could count the guys I’d slept with on one hand and still have a thumb left over. What in the world had possessed me to drunkenly hook up with a guy I barely knew who was getting married in a few months?

I thought of Jen, sound asleep in LA, trusting that her fiancé was alone in his bed too and not curled up, buck naked, in another woman’s arms. She trusted him, and I’d helped him betray that trust. My stomach rolled, and not just from the hangover. I needed to get up. Now.

I squirmed out from under Jamie and vacated the bed. Scanning the room, I found a pair of boxer shorts and an old t-shirt strewn on the floor. After donning the ensemble, I walked to the bathroom.

Staring in the mirror wasn’t pretty. I looked like hell on toast. Black circles under my puffy eyes. Makeup smeared. Bleh.

I brushed my teeth and washed my face and then hit the kitchen to make eggs. What the hell, right? Even the “other woman” needed to eat a balanced Atkins breakfast, and maybe it would get my mind off things at the very least. I tried to swallow down the guilt, but it determinedly rose like bile to my throat. The smell of the scrambled eggs only served to nauseate me further.

“Maddy?” a sleepy voice behind me said a few minutes later. I whirled around. Jamie stood in the doorway, deliciously rumpled. He’d donned his blue jeans but no shirt. I scolded my eyes for straying a second too long on his perfectly sculpted chest. After all, I’d already done more than my share of sampling the forbidden goods already. Time to get my mind out of the gutter and behave like a responsible human being.

I realized my heart was pounding in my chest as I waited for what he’d say next. Then I remembered my manners.

“Do you want some eggs?”

“Maddy, I’ve got to ask you . . .” He raked a hand through his mussed hair in a way that made me pretty sure his question wasn’t whether the eggs came from cage-free chickens.

“Yes?” Cool, calm, collected. Whatever he wanted to ask me, I’d be okay with it.

“I had a lot to drink last night and I wasn’t sure . . . Well I woke up and . . .” He looked around the apartment. “Are we at your place?”

“Yeah, ” I said quietly. He didn’t even remember agreeing to come here. Guess that answered my question about his level of sobriety.

“Oh. Right. And I woke up in . . .” He pointed vaguely toward the bedroom. “. . . and I didn’t know . . .”

“You want to know if we had sex.” I spelled it out, shocked at how clear and cold my voice sounded.

“Y-yeah.” His face reddened at my bluntness. He hadn’t been so shy last night.

“I don’t know, Jamie. I don’t remember either. But I woke up in my bed naked. And you were naked next to me. So I’d say chances are pretty darn good.” I realized I sounded angry. Hurt. Don’t let him see that you care.

Mari Mancusi used to wish she could become a vampire back in high school. But she ended up in another blood sucking profession –journalism — instead. Today she works as a freelance TV producer and author of books for teens and adults. When not writing about creatures of the night, Mari enjoys traveling, cooking, goth clubbing, watching cheesy horror movies, and her favorite guilty pleasure–videogames. A graduate of Boston University and a two time Emmy Award winner, she lives in Austin, Texas with her husband Jacob, daughter Avalon and dog Mesquite.

BLOG TOUR: Rock My Bed by Michelle Valentine Book Trailer, Review and Giveaways

Everything always seems to fall into place for twenty-four year-old Aubrey Jenson, except for when it comes to her luck with men. Bad boys always draw her in and crush her heart, and Black Falcon’s lead guitarist, Riff, is no exception. After sharing a few wild nights together, she leaves him behind, knowing a guy like Riff isn’t the relationship type, merely just a play thing. 


When she returns to New York, she tries to get the passion she felt in Riff’s arms out of her head by dating Isaac, a successful representative at Center Stage Marketing. Just when she thinks she’s forgotten Riff, she’s forced to see him again when her best friend, Lanie, ropes her into being a bridesmaid for her upcoming wedding to Black Falcon front man, Noel. 

Sparks fly instantly between Aubrey and Riff when they’re forced to reunite, and suddenly she finds herself caught between the man that’s good for her and the one who completely rocks her in every way.

**New Adult Romance–Book 2 in the Black Falcon series. This book can be read without reading book one.**

Pam: Hey Cris so are you ready for this? *jumping up and down* 
Cris: Really? What now Pam? I really think that you may have some issues! *folds arms and leans against the wall* 
Pam: Oh Cris! *shaking head* you know you love me and my crazy ideas! I don’t think a cross country road trip to see Black Falcon is at all crazy. We are stocked with Oreos and milk! What better way to rock out? So get your butt in the car because we have a show to catch! 
Cris: *snicker* Well we always have fun so ok let’s roll! Just don’t make me moon anyone or any other stupid ideas that may pop up in that crazy head of yours!  
Pam: You know me by now doll! Skies the limit! * cheshire cat grin* 
The car is packed and Black Falcon is turned up to an 11 on the sound system, windows down and hitting the highway 
Cris: So can we talk about the book? 
Pam: Fo sho! *passes a bag of Oreos to Cris* First Riff! Yummy! *fans face* Trust me if I got my hands on a golden ticket I would be happier than Augustus Gloop in Wonka’s Chocolate factory! 
Cris: huh! You bet! I’d kill to have that freaking ticket! LOL Im head over heels for Riff. That boy is sooo damn hot! Imagine reading the book 3 times in a row? I just can’t get enough of him. Sure we loved Noel in the first book. But Riff has gotten under my skin, it isn’t funny anymore! I’m seriously in Riff withdrawal mmm let me rephrase that…Rock My Bed withdrawal! How bout you Pam? 
Pam: I love that with Rock My Bed that we got a second look at the whole Noel and Lane story. I think that Michelle did an amazing job of pulling both stories together. I so feel in love with Riff in this story and to see his side of the Noel/Sophie issue really showed that he was a kind and loving person! 
Cris: Ditto! I love that almost everyone in Book 1 were still part of it. Michelle was able to put a spotlight for each even introducing another character, Isaac, but without overshadowing the main characters. Riff and Aubrey’s story still stood out. Both characters are so interesting to read. One is looking for love while the other is running away from it. 
Pam: He was so pained *sighs* but Michelle wrote him so endearing. It was impossible for Aubrey not to fall for him! 

Cris: His character is very complicated. He has suffered so much in the past that pushed him not to believe in love anymore. He was so broken, I wanted to hug him everytime he mentions about his past. And I guess you would agree with me that Oreos have a deeper meaning to us now. Bahaha 
Pam: HEY! There is a semi coming…ready? *the new game…air guitar truck honks! Cris puts on your best rocker performance and we are counting how many semi honks we collect* 
Cris: Really!?!?! 
Pam: Yes come on! We will never see these people again! 
I turn of the tunes and Cris is giving her best Riff while Pam is pumping a fist out the driver’s side window 
Pam: Score! Whats that 10 or 11? 
Cris: 11! Ok back to important things! 
Pam: Ok! *turns radio down* what were you thoughts on Aubrey? Both her and Riff had a lot to deal with in this book. It always amazes me that everyone no matter what your background or life style is has a personal battle that they are at odds with. 
Pam: A lot of time we spend our life running from the one thing we need the most and always try to mold to what we think is best but sadly in the end the only person we hurt is ourselves. At times I was yelling at my iPad…Really Aubrey!! He is a rock god! Get with the program! 
Cris: I agree with you there. But let’s admit that even though sometimes I wanted to kick her ass too, Aubrey’s character is irresistibly adorable. She’s not your typical female lead who has a weak character. She knows what she wants and knows how to play her game. And I loved her for that. 
Pam: Over all I think that this book far passed anything I could hope for both Riff and Aubrey! It made my heart hurt, made me laugh and just reaffirmed why we all love a bad boy rocker! *raises hands* I bow to the rocker gods! 
Cris: It may be a better idea if you keep your hands on the wheel! 
Pam: Not down for the church of Black Falcon? *laughing to the point of tears* So you tell me? What was your overall feeling about Rock My Bed? *picks up her bottle of milk as a make shift microphone for Cris* you’re live…spill it doll! 
Cris: Well I have said it and will say it again. The BEST yet so far! I loved books 1 and 2, no doubt about it! But I gotta say that Michelle has exceedingly managed to provide us with enough plot resolution and character development to make the novel satisfying in a self contained-way. This book goes to my top favorite list! And I cant wait for the next ones to be out!
Pam: Ok enough play. We have lots of miles to cover if we expect to make it to the show and we need a fill-up. 
Cris: *flips open an empty bag of Oreos* Make that gas and Oreos! 
Pam: Why didn’t you say so earlier? *sigh*I bet if Riff was here we would never run out of Oreos! 
Cris: Well right now we are out and unless you plan on one cranky Black Flacon fan for the rest of this trip *points to herself* you better pull this car in to the nearest 7/11. 
Pam: Well we don’t want that now do we!

5+++ FREAKING STARS!
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New York Times Best Selling author Michelle A. Valentine is a Central Ohio nurse turned author of erotic romance of forthcoming novels ROCK THE HEART (2012) and ROCK MY BED (2013). Her love of hard-rock music, tattoos and sexy musicians inspired her BLACK FALCON series.

Rock My Bed on Goodreads: 
Michelle’s Goodreads Author Page: 
Michelle’s blog: 
Michelle’s Facebook Author page: 
Follow Michelle on Twitter: 
Michelle’s Amazon Author page: 
You Tube video schedule link: 
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Boston Charity Book Giveaway Event

We are helping to spread the word about  this amazing book giveaway that was created to aid the victims and families of the 2013 Boston Marathon Attack. Many best-selling authors have donated books  in response to this cause. The books are grouped into bundle packs and a winner will be selected randomly through Rafflecopter for each bundle. Visit the book giveaway site for more details and how to enter.

If you do not want to enter to win a bundle, please feel free to make a donation using this link. It will take you directly to the organization donation site.
The auction will run from April 21-April 30th.
In the Name of Love
SIGNED copies of:
Hopeless by Colleen Hoover
Easy by Tammara Webber
Fallen Too Far & Never Too Far by Abbi Glines
FATE by Elizabeth Reyes
CRUSH by Nicole Williams
Disastrous by EL Montes
Everybody Needs Somebody to Love
SIGNED copies of:
Slammed & Point of Retreat by Colleen Hoover
What a Boy Wants, What a Boy Needs and Measuring Up by Nyrae Dawn
Sleep My Child by Eyvonna Rains
ebooks: Shark Bait & The Other Fish in the Sea by Jenn Cooksey
Just the Way You Are
SIGNED copies of:
Suddenly Royal by Nichole Chase
Inhale Exhale by Sarah Ross
Destined to Change by Lisa Harley
Music of the Heart by Katie Ashley
Wide Awake by Shelly Crane
I Walk the Line
SIGNED copies of:
The Thoughtless Series by SC Stephens
Walking Disaster by Jamie McGuire
Until I Break by M. Leighton-ARC
Collide by Gail McHugh
Stand By Me
SIGNED copies of:
Love Unscripted & Love Unrehearsed by Tina Reber
Collide by Gail McHugh
Love Em’ or Leave Em’ by Angie Stanton
On The Island byTracey Garvis-Graves
I Wanna Hold Your Hand
SIGNED Copies of:
Poughkeepsie by Debra Anastasia
Naked, All In by Raine Miller
Collide by Gail McHugh
Signed Wreck Me, ebook Restore Me by JL Mac
Superstition
SIGNED copies of:
Awaken and Avenged by Sarah Ross
Darkride and Crossfire by Laura Bradley Rede
Whole Lotta Love
SIGNED copies of:
Fall Guy & Perfectly Unmatched by Liz Reinhardt
Lengths & Depths by Steph Campbell
Charade & Freeing Carter by Nyrae Dawn
Destined to Change by Lisa Harley
A Prior Engagement by SL Scott
Maybe I’m Amazed
SIGNED copies of:
A Hidden Fire by Elizabeth Hunter
Inescapable, Intuition, Indebted and Incendiary by Amy Bartol
Ain’t Too Proud to Beg
SIGNED copies of:
The Proposition and The Proposal by Katie Ashley
Chocolate Lovers Series by Tara Sivec
His Perfect Passion and The Undoing of a Libertine by Raine Miller
Sponsors
All the amazing authors who donated their books

BLOG TOUR: Destiny Ever Changing by Tasha Ivey ~ Review, Excerpt and Giveaways

“Some are destined for greatness . . . others for pure unadulterated misery.

After catching her boyfriend with another woman, Laura struggles with beginning again, knowing deep down that she is destined to be unhappily out of love for her entire life. Needing some time to recoup and formulate a game plan, she decides to visit her notoriously wise grandmother. But once there, a curveball in the form of a deliciously attractive stranger has her falling again.

Brooks is another story altogether. He is quite content with his life until his father forces him into a business decision that will ruin the rest of his life. As if his relationship with his father isn’t tumultuous enough, his new fiancé is making every waking moment a living hell and loving every manipulative minute of it.

When Laura stumbles upon her mother’s old journal, she opens a door into a long forgotten past. A past that somehow leads both Laura and Brooks into unfamiliar territory and changes everything they ever knew about fate.

Destiny is ever-changing, after all.”


                

I am such a sucker for a love story and Destiny Ever – Changing gave me just that.  Tasha Ivey gives us a story of two people that have given up on the fact that love is easy.  But to tell the truth anything worth having never is.  When Laura seeks the comforts of home from her Nana, she finds Brooks “popping” into her life.  Both Laura and Brooks struggle with the feelings this meet queue created.  While Laura is looking to find herself Brooks is just trying to survive.  As the story unfolds both learn that destiny has plans that either one of them planned on.

This is a true love story!  I feel in love with Brook.  He is a stand up man trying to do the right thing even at the cost of his own happiness.  Hello what’s not to LOVE!!!  I enjoyed the fact that you are able to see this story unfold through his eyes as well as Laura.  Both of their personal stories differ but through their pain they find that they cannot fight was destiny has in store.  Destiny Ever – Changing is a must read for all hopeless romantics!  You will love the story and Tasha’s twist on a modern day love story.
Pam’s rating : 4 Stars~



Laura’s POV

“I’m going to put you down now,” his soft voice cracks. “You can open your eyes.”

I open my eyes as my feet touch the ground, and I cannot believe what I see. We are standing at the edge of a cliff, which juts out about twenty feet above the ocean in a cove.

“Ready to jump?” Brooks asks as he takes off his shirt and shoes.

I take a step back. “No way! I’m not jumping! I don’t know how deep the water is!”

“But I do. I have jumped off here at least a couple hundred times, I’m sure. You said that you trust me, remember?”

He steps over to the edge of the rock, so close that I am certain a slight breeze would send him hurdling toward the water. He faces me and holds out his hand as he looks directly into my eyes. I finally kick my sandals off and place my hand in his, feeling the butterflies invading my stomach again; although I am unsure whether the butterflies are caused by the impending jump or his delicate touch. He mouths the words “trust me” as he pulls me to him. My heart is racing as I peer at the rolling swells below.

“We’re jumping on the count of three. One . . .”

“Brooks, I don’t know if I can do this.”

He smiles and wraps both arms around my waist. “Two . . .”

“Oh my goodness,” I squeak.

Brooks locks his gaze with mine and pulls me tightly against his chest, and I can feel it heaving against mine. His mouth so close that I can feel his moist breath on my cheek.

“Three.” he whispers as he bends slightly to pick me up, and we take flight.

I thought I would be scared, but I feel perfectly safe in his arms. We fall for what seems like an eternity, and the feeling of the wind whipping around me is exhilarating. Just before we reach the water, he releases me, and I hold my breath. The cool, salt water engulfs me, and as I slightly open my eyes, I see a school of fish scatter. As soon as I break the surface of the water, I begin laughing hysterically and swim toward the shore.

“That was amazing! I haven’t ever done anything like that before!” Expecting a reply of some kind, I turn around to look for Brooks and am shocked to find myself alone. After looking in all directions, I dive back underwater to search for him. If he is playing a joke on me, drowning will be the least of his worries. At first, I struggle to open my eyes in the stinging salt water, but I force them open anyway. I still can’t see him.

My foot grazes something behind me, so I turn around, hoping I touched a tiny fish rather than a ferocious shark. However, what I saw was not a fish or a shark, although it was much more shocking. The unexpected sight causes me to let out the breath I was holding, sending me scrambling back to the surface. Just as I take in my first gasp of air, I hear Brooks doing the same.

“Where . . . are . . . your . . . shorts?” I ask in an uneven, ragged breath.

“Ugh . . . I was hoping . . . you didn’t see that.”

“Hard not to see . . . when it was . . . right in my face,” I begin to giggle breathlessly.


Tasha Ivey is a literature fanatic, whose love for the written word fostered her development into the writer she has become. A lover of an extremely erratic mixture of literature, she has been influenced by authors from Jane Austen and E.M. Forster to Charlaine Harris and Alyson Noel. But her biggest influence and literary hero? Nicholas Sparks. Aside from writing, since she doesn’t have anything other than a shriveled up prune on the left side of her brain, she prefers to spend her time being creative in other ways like painting, cake decorating, and various types of crafts. That is, if the constant voices streaming through her head allow her to stop making up stories for a while. Lucky for her, she has a huge supportive family, including her amazing husband and two kids, who doesn’t complain too much when she hangs out with her characters more than she does with them. She is currently working on her second novel, Every Breath, which is due to release this year, and she also plans to start a sequel to her first novel, Destiny Ever-changing, this summer.
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AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT (Part 2): Interview with R.K. Lilley and Mr. James Cavendish

PAM SITS DOWN WITH R.K. LILLEY 
AND JAMES CAVENDISH

Where: Las Vegas home of one of the MANY James Cavendish lavish properties.

What: Spending some quality time with the remarkably gifted R.K. Lilley and Mr. Beautiful while having lunch.

When: On the heels of her book three, Grounded, in the Up in the Air series and Lana we are all waiting with baited breath for Bad Things! What better way to spend the afternoon then with the creator and her muse.

_____________________________________________________________________________

TBA: Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me today! I have to say that I love it here but *leans in so only the three of them can hear* I would have performed a far better interview on a private jet on the way to a certain ranch. *blushes while looking away*

We order lunch and now it is time to jump in!

TBA: Ok well first I would like to thank you for an amazing series! *looking at R.K.* I couldn’t put the books down! I must say that James had me at first class seat 1A! Sorry James but you have to know that you are the dream…a total package! *sighs*

TBA: R.K. can you tell a little about how the series came to be and how *looking at James* we were lucky enough to have this man come into our lives?

R.K.: I wrote a story that had elements of everything that I absolutely adore about erotic romance. I would definitely say that it’s a guilty pleasure. It was sure as hell a guilty pleasure for me to write it. It’s angsty, dark, dramatic, passionate, and tells a heart-wrenching love story through some pretty spectacular, over the top, kinky sex. The setting was a fun little extra, and a sort of homage to my days as a first class flight attendant. James, unfortunately, is a figment of my imagination, but a very well-developed figment, and pieces of him do come from real life.

TBA: James, you really put yourself out there when it came to Bianca. What was it about her? You are powerful man and could have you pick of anyone. I know she is one hell of a Flight Attendant but what was it about her pre flight checks that sent you over the edge?

James: It isn’t any one thing that sent me over the edge…Is it trite to say that she’s perfect, and I knew it from the start? If you made me pick one single thing, though, I’d say it was her eyes. They’re ageless. They told me so much about her that she never had to say.

TBA: She is pretty special and so talented! That art work! I am going to have to pick up a piece before I leave this paradise! So where is the lovely Bianca today?

James: She and Stephan are having a besties day.

TBA: R.K. both James and Bianca are characters with dark pasts. They both have dealt with life events that no one should ever be subject to. At times did you find it hard to write their journey with such a heavy back story?

R.K.: I wouldn’t say it was hard for me. It’s a little therapeutic, to be honest. Getting that sort of thing out on paper is sort of a relief. Some of the events, though, did have some basis in reality, and having to get some of it okayed was awkward.

TBA: I loved that fact that the story wasn’t wrapped in a pretty bow. Real life is not pretty 100% of the time. It is the ugly that shows us who we really. James and Bianca showed up just how beautiful ugly can be!

R.K.: I like flawed characters. You’ll never see me writing about people without serious issues. I don’t relate to that. I don’t think many people do.

Lunch arrives and after a few moments of silence I have to ask the question that every single living breathing woman in the world wants to know!

TBA: James! *sitting my drink down I decide to go all in* The ranch, the horseback ride…where did you even come up with that idea! It was H.O.T! You gave new meaning to the sport of equestrian! *cheeks getting bright red*

James: Is that not normal? Perhaps I have a one-track mind, but the two things just seemed to go together for me…

TBA: Ok now that we have that out of the way James what’s next for you and Bianca? I must say that we love the way you love her!

James glances at R.K. It is not a particularly friendly look. “I guess you’ll have to ask this sadistic one over here. She has plans for us, and she’s been threatening to tell all of my secrets.”

R.K. smiles, unfazed. “I thought their story was done, but I was wrong. Currently I’m working on the first book in my series about Danika and Tristan. You’ll be seeing more of James and Bianca over the course of that series, and in ways you may not expect. And, down the road, you can expect a book told from the POV of James and Stephan. It will run parallel with the Up In The Air series, but also go beyond it, giving you a look into the after of Bianca, James, Stephan, and Javier. I can’t wait to write it!

TBA: Things get a little hot and heavy in the playroom, *laughing* ok well let me correct myself, its a lot of hot and heavy! James, would you care to share any of your secrets? *shaking head…did I just ask that*

James displays a rather sinister smile. “It takes time, a seriously filthy mind, and training to learn my secrets. Suffice it to say, don’t try these things at home, without the proper training.

TBA: Well I guess we could all take a page from your book Mr. Cavendish *winks* Can you blame a girl for asking? I mean Bianca is one lucky girl!!

Time for a change of topic…

TBA: I love the relationship between Bianca and Stephan! Friends are truly soul mates! The relationship between Bianca and Stephan proves that. Where do you find the inspiration for their friendship?

R.K: Stephan is my favorite. I don’t know if I’m supposed have favorites, but he’s it, and that’s because he does come from a lot of real life inspiration for me. He’s a combination of my own personal bestie, and the men I’ve known and adored who’ve been through some very similar struggles.

TBA: James you and Stephan are close now did you find it had to have another man in Bianca’s life? How did you deal with it?

James: I’ll admit that my first reaction was purely pragmatic. Being on Stephan’s good side meant getting closer to Bianca, and so I made sure to stay on his good side. However, Stephan is one of those people that it’s impossible not to love. And the way he’s been there for Bianca… Quite simply, I would do anything for him. He’s the best guy in the world.

TBA: I so love me some Stephan!! I must say that each and every character in your books is worthy of their own story. What do we have to look forward to after Bad Things? Who else will we have the pleasure of getting to know better?

R.K.: I will definitely be focusing on the novel from James and Stephan’s POV after I finish up the Bad Things series. And I will be releasing the second book in my urban fantasy series, hopefully sometime in September. After that, it’s up in the air:) I’d love to hear which characters you’d like to see more of!

After we finish our lunch I know our time is coming to an end. I could sit here forever! This is what happens when you fall in love with a book series! There is never enough! I thank both R.K. and James. Not wanting the day to end I make one last effort…

TBA: Thank you for taking this time with me and The Book Avenue! We truly love the books and are looking forward to many more! R.K. you rank at least 30,000 miles high in my book! So James…the day is still young how about some of that 5 star treatment? I am thinking spa day? *blushing as he flashes his million dollar smile*

COMING SOON… BAD THINGS

R.K. Lilley is the erotic romance author of the UP IN THE AIR series.

Book One: In Flight, Book Two: Mile High, Book Three: Grounded, and Lana, a novella, are all available now on Amazon. 
R.K. is currently working on her next series, Bad Things.

R.K. Lilley lives in Colorado with her husband and their two beautiful sons. She’s had a lot of interesting jobs, from being a first class flight attendant, to being a stablehand, but swears she never knew what hard work was until she had children. She’s been addicted to both reading and writing fiction since she can remember. She loves to travel, read, hike, paint, game, watch anime, and make the most of every single day. She is the author of the erotic romance novels In Flight, Mile High, and coming February 12, 2013, the conclusion to the Up In The Air trilogy, Grounded.

BLOG TOUR: Lost in Distraction by BJ Harvey Interview with Shay, Trailer and Giveaways

BLURB:

In the three years after a horrible crime claimed her family, Elise Halliwell has been alone, shut off from the world in a self-imposed emotional exile. She goes through the motions, finishes high school and moves across country to start college and begin the next step in her pre-destined life.

But her exile is dramatically cut short by the entrance of a dark haired, blue-eyed, smirking man who shakes her to the core, achieving what everyone else before him has failed to do, he makes her feel again.

As much as he wishes it were different, fate has not brought Braxton James into Elise’s life, or has it. Brax has to keep her safe from people in her life who have ulterior motives and may want to hurt her.

Elise has no idea the threat she faces, and Brax wants to make sure it stays that way. But as Brax struggles with getting close to her, he begins to live a lie. Unable to resist the pull that is Elise’s bright green eyes, infectious giggle, and loving heart, he finds it impossible to stay away, so the double life of being Elise’s boyfriend and keeping her safe begins.

Full of twists and turns, danger and revelations that no-one could predict, you won’t be the only one lost in distraction.


NIKKI SITS DOWN WITH SHAY

*Shay’s walking in looking utterly delicious. He’s wearing a grey short sleeved top that could almost be painted on, and a pair of dirty denim jeans with strategically placed rips in all the right places. His hair has that “just got out of bed after being up all night” look and his eyes are dancing with amusement as he notices me checking him out.*

Welcome Shay. Thank you for taking time out of your hectic schedule to sit down and talk with me this evening. I know I’m not the only woman who wants to get to know you a little better.

*chuckles* Thanks for having me, where are all these lovely ladies that want to know about me?

They are the ones reading this interview. Anything you would like to say to your admirers? Hey ladies, I’m starting a line for the photo booth, who’s up first *Cracks up laughing* Sorry, couldn’t resist that one, I’m a bit of a smart ass sometimes, Brax has me up about it all the time.

Well don’t be surprised if there is a huge line of women waiting for their turn!

So let’s gets started!

Tell us a little bit about yourself. About your family. Any brothers or sisters?

Hey gorgeous. Well I have a twin sister Sophie who lives in New Orleans with her husband and my mother lives in Atlanta, Georgia.

How did you meet Brax? We met during basic training in the army. We were both 17 and looking to escape our lives and maybe, make something of ourselves. The army seemed like the best place to do that.
Do you have any hobbies or activities you like to do in your spare time? Why do you ask sweet thing? You got some suggestions for me?

*Blushes* Shay you are such a flirt!

Hey, I can’t help it when a gorgeous woman like yourself is flirting with me.

Well I am finding you a bit irresistible. I better start behaving myself then *smirks*

You can’t hide that nice, lean and toned body. So how do you stay in shape? Do you play sports? Is there a favorite? Well now, you don’t beat around the bush do you Nikki *smirks* I work out at the gym, do a lot of free weights to keep my strength up. Doing long stretches of surveillance can wreak havoc on your muscle mass if you let it. I used to play lacrosse in high school, but that is about it. There are certainly lots of other ways to get your heart rate up Nikki, don’t you think?

Oh I have a few ideas *winks*

I bet you do darlin’

What would be your dream job? Running my own agency with Brax, maybe Elle can be our business manager.

If you could go anywhere in the world with anybody, dead or alive, where and with who? I can’t really talk about it because the dragon lady (BJ Harvey) says I’m going to get my own story about my past, but there is a girl that touched my soul that is no longer with us, so if I could, I’d go wherever I could to be with her again.

Awww! That is so sweet! *swoons*

How about music? Favorite musician or band? I’m easy when it comes to music, Ha! I bet you were getting your hopes up there weren’t you Nikki! Damn darlin’ you’re a bit naughty aren’t ya, I like that in a woman. But I hear you’re recently engaged so I might have to keep my distance.

Yes I am recently engaged. Word travels fast I see. 🙂 I may have had a wee talking to by your man, seems he thinks you might have a soft spot for me *winks*

He knows me all to well! Well he might have mentioned that you called my name out in your sleep that one time…

*blushes* I really hope I didn’t! That would be awkward. Ha ha, not what would really be awkward would be if you called out my name during… actually, I’ll stop there.

Ok I’ve been curious about something since your birthday party. The photo booth. Where did you get the idea for it? What made you decide to have one? I’ve been to a few parties that had them and they’re such a great laugh. I thought it would be a great idea to have at my birthday party. I mean, alcohol, music, drunken photos! What could be better. Well actually, seeing the look on Brax’s face when him and Elle came out of the booth, THAT would be the only thing better in my book.

It’s not something you see very often but I thought it was a fun idea and I have to admit, I’m a little jealous. Now I want one! And I would have loved to have seen both of their faces! It would have been priceless!I think you just wanna take your fiancé in the booth Nikki, c’mon, admit it, I won’t tell anyone *laughs*

Ok you may or may not be right about that *winks*

Maybe I could sweet talk you into taking a pic with me. Strictly as friends. *smiles sweetly* Friends with benefits? Ha ha! That got you didn’t it!

*I may have just fainted*

Shay I have to admit. I’m a sucker for tattoo’s. How many do you have? Are there any special meaning behind them? I have a dragon chasing a heart around my bicep *lifts shirt sleeve to show Nikki* which has very special meaning behind it but I can’t talk about it because the dragon lady would have my balls. But I will tell you that the heart represents that special girl in my past that I would give anything to see again.

You are just a sweetheart!

So you’ve made quite the impression on more than a few women. So we want to know, what do you look for in a woman? First thing you notice? Favorite asset on a woman?*shakes head and grins at Nikki* You’re a little firecracker aren’t you, I can tell. I like that in a woman. I like a bit of spunk and sass, I like a woman who can give as good as they get. The first thing I notice is a woman’s silhouette, the curves, the shape of the hips, the nape of their neck. As for favourite assets, eyes and attitude will win me over every time.

Hmmm you’re lucky I’m already happily engaged or I may have snatched you up. *chuckles*

Darlin, I may have let you snatch me too.

Tease! 😉

Ok some Rapid Fire questions:

Boxers or briefs? Commando
Blonde, brunette, or redhead? All three at once?
Vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry? I’m not a vanilla kind of guy
One night stand or relationship? Ouch! Lets just say I was in a relationship, now I’m strictly no strings.
Car, Truck, or SUV? For a one night stand? *laughs* Nah, I’m all for a truck.
Favorite car? Brax’s Mustang
Favorite color? Red


Having always loved reading, and having been befriended and inspired by some awesome self published authors and book lovers alike, I decided to start writing my first novel, Lost in Distraction in December 2012. It was a conscious decision that started with a song, then the prologue and then catapulted from there. I love music too, like REALLY love music, if there isn’t music playing, something is wrong. Out and Proud Vampire Diaries fan as well. 

I’m also a wife, mother, full-time university student and I do contract work for myself from home.

Author Website | Goodreads Page | FB Page


Come To Me Quietly Special Announcement from A.L. Jackson

Come To Me Quietly
Blog Bonus
Hi Everyone! I’m so very excited to have the opportunity to give you a first peek at Come To Me Quietly, the first in my upcoming series, Closer.


I received some really incredible news that I want to share with you all – Come To Me Quietly will be published with New American Library/Penguin as part of a two-book deal and should come out no later than early 2014—just a little bit longer than first anticipated, but I do hope it will be worth the wait. This will be the first time any of my books have been widely distributed in print to bookstores, and I can’t wait for the chance for more readers to have access to Come To Me Quietly.

AND the good news is since Come To Me Quietly will be pushed back, you all are going to get more of Christian Davidson sooner rather than later. Christian and Elizabeth’s story from Lost to Youand Take This Regret will be coming late summer. Stay tuned J  

But first let’s take a closer look at my latest working manuscript, Come To Me Quietly. I can’t even wait to get Jared and Aleena into your hands. Jared Holt has absolutely taken over my heart and mind, and I hope you fall in love with him just as hard as I have. Come To Me Quietly will be packed with all the emotion you’ve come to expect from my novels, but it’s also a whole lot sexier and much Closer. So here you go—the complete synopsis for Come To Me Quietly.
                                               
Aleena Moore is content with her life. She has goals and dreams and an easy smile. She also has a secret she holds locked inside.

Jared Holt believes he doesn’t deserve to love or be loved. He destroys everything he touches. Haunted by the mistake that shattered his life, he’s fled from the memory of that pain.
Jared doesn’t know why he’s compelled to return, but finds himself drawn back to the place where it all began. The exact place where it ended. When he runs into his childhood best friend, Aleena’s older brother Christopher, he agrees to share Christopher and Aleena’s apartment while he looks for a place of his own.

Aleena is no longer the little girl Jared remembers from his past and evokes feelings in him he never wanted to feel again. Terrified of destroying her, he fights to keep her away. But her touch is something he can’t resist—the touch that sealed his fate.

Their pasts are intertwined and their futures uncertain. The only truths they know are the secrets they whisper in the night.
A taste of what I’ve been tossing around as I delve into Jared and Aleena’s World:
Dashed lines blur until they become a solid line. My bones vibrate from the thousands of miles I’ve spent straddling this leather seat, the muscles in my right arm screaming from the hours my hand has been locked on the throttle.

But I don’t stop. I can’t, and I don’t know why. Something in my gut spurs me forward. I plough ahead.

Hot air blasts my face and my hair thrashes in uncontrolled chaos.
I bite back a bitter laugh.

Uncontrolled chaos. That’s exactly how they described me.

The desert sky goes on forever, an ocean of the deepest blue. The city rises like a beacon in the distance. Because I am drawn.

What am I doing?

There is nothing here for me. I know it. I’ve already destroyed it all. I destroy everything I touch.
Still I can do nothing but press on.
I hope you’re all as excited to meet Jared Holt and Aleena Moore as I am to bring them to you! I want to thank you so much for all the support! You all have rocked this year and made this 100% possible!! Be sure to check out the drawing below – we are giving away some FUN FUN stuff!!!

Xoxo
Amy
Come To Me Quietly Giveaway


 A.L. Jackson is the New York Times bestselling author of Take This Regret and Lost to You, as well as other contemporary romance titles, including Pulledand When We Collide.
She first found a love for writing during her days as a young mother and college student.  She filled the journals she carried with short stories and poems used as an emotional outlet for the difficulties and joys she found in day-to-day life.
Years later, she shared a short story she’d been working on with her two closest friends and, with their encouragement, this story became her first full length novel. A.L. now spends her days writing in Southern Arizona where she lives with her husband and three beautiful children. Her favorite pastime is spending time with the ones she loves.
Connect with A.L. Jackson online:

BLOG TOUR: Light in the Shadows by A. Meredith Walters Excerpt, Playlist and Giveaways



Blurb:

How do you keep going when you feel like your life is over?

Maggie never thought she’d see Clay again. So, she attempts to put her life back together after her heart has been shattered to pieces. Moving on and moving forward, just as Clay wanted her to.

Clay never stopped thinking of Maggie. Even after ripping their lives apart and leaving her behind to get the help he so desperately needed. He is healing…slowly. But his heart still belongs to the girl who tried to save him.

When a sudden tragedy brings Maggie and Clay face to face again, nothing is the same. Yet some things never change. Can the darkness that threatened to consume them be transformed into something else and finally give them what they always wanted? And can two people who fought so hard to be together, finally find their happiness? Or will their demons and fear drive them apart for good?

The thing about love, is even when it destroys you, it has a way of mending what is broken. And in the shadows, you can still see the light.

“I’m not going anywhere. Because no on is abandoning you. People can move on and live their lives but that doesn’t mean you’re not apart of it anymore. I love you, Clay. Ruby loves you. Because you, Clay, are worthy of that love. You deserve it. All of it. And Ruby and I just want you to find the place where you’ll be okay and healthy. You can get angry with me, tell me to leave. But not once have I ever turned my back on you and I won’t start now,” she told me, putting her hands on me for the first time.

Her fingers gripped my chin and pulled my face around to her. The sight of her in my confused state of mind was like striking a match. And I lost it. I just fucking lost it. I started to sob and I couldn’t stop. I don’t know exactly what I was crying for, except that everything that had been dammed up inside of me was pouring out.

I had always believed I was irredeembable. That I couldn’t expect others to love me when I didn’t even love myself. But Maggie’s words hit me at a moment when I so desperately needed to hear them. I needed to believe that she was right, that I was worthy.

Bleed- Hot Chelle Rae: You Tube | Itunes | Amazon

After Clay writes Maggie the letter. His struggles with his love for her while in treatment.

In the Sun- Joseph Arthur: You Tube | Itunes | Amazon

After the phone call to Maggie on Clay’s birthday. He thinks of all the things he’d say to her.

Walking Dream- Natalie Walker: You Tube | Amazon

The aftermath of Lisa’s death for Clay. His conflicted emotions about seeing Maggie again intertwined with his grief.

Shattered-Trading Yesterday: You Tube | Itunes | Amazon

This is Maggie after seeing Clay again. The words are so perfect.

Begin Again-Measure: You Tube | Itunes | Amazon

After Clay decides to stay in Davidson and to try and live his life by his terms.

All About Us: You Tube| Itunes | Amazon

He is We- a sweet love song that perfectly describes the way Maggie and Clay are together. This fits wonderfully as a song when they decide to be together again.

Holes Inside- Joe Brooks: You Tube | Itunes | Amazon

Clay’s fears that he will fall apart again, that he isn’t ready to have the future he wants. His final realization that he can’t hold it all together.

Holding on or Letting Go-Ross Copperman: You Tube | Itunes | Amazon

When Clay decides to go back to treatment and asks Maggie to wait for him.

Near or Far- Carissa Rae: You Tube | Itunes | Amazon

Maggie and Clay’s long distance relationship. They are separated by distance but not emotion.

Perfect for Me- Ron Pope: You Tube | Itunes | Amazon

This has always been Clay and Maggie’s Happily Ever After song.

The New York Times bestselling author of Contemporary and Paranormal romance including Find You in the Dark, Cloud Walking and Bad Rep.

A. Meredith spent ten years as a counselor for at risk teens and children. First working at a Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault program and then later a program for children with severe emotional and mental health issues. Her former clients and their stories continue to influence every aspect of her writing.

A. Meredith recently moved to England and is trying to get used to driving on the other side of the road, eating fish and chips and all things British.