September brings cooler weather (hopefully), a change of colors, and kiddios heading back to school, which inspired a pretty sweet blog hop for this month’s Nice Girls Writing Naughty event. All the cool authors from NGWN will be posting one of their yummy heroes as their Teacher's Pet and some juicy tidbits of what they might have been like in school.
So where’s the reader fun? Well, for one - a chance at a $50 gift certificate from Amazon. Just check out the post HERE for all the juicy details. And I promise it will be fun!
Oh, and did I mention that each author will be giving away of pretty cool prize on their blogs? Mine will be a free ecopies of the first 2 books of my Backstage Pass series, Finding Her Rhythm and Settling the Score. Just comment below with your name and an email addy so I can contact you if you win. Anyone who also signs up for my author newsletter (see sidebar) will get an additional entry!
Now that I got the contest stuff taken care of...lets bring on Dani's Pet.
Colin McIntyre is the hero for the first novel in my upcoming Small Town Secrets series, set in the rural Tennessee town of Caldwell. Secrets abound there. Everyone has something to hide.
Hidden in a quiet town along the Tennessee border, a secret gathering exists where the privileged fulfill their darkest desires. One of their members initiates a desperate act designed to bring home his lifelong obsession: Emma Hartwell. Drawn back to her hometown by the psychic connection with her twin, Emma must fight the stubborn silence of those around her in her quest to find her kidnapped sister.
Colin McIntyre hopes to make up for his past mistakes with Emma by helping her, but his own ties to the Gathering are exposed along the way. Can they fight the secrets and lies to rescue Emma’s sister… and their own chance at life-long love?
5 Fast Facts:
~ When I graduated high school I was voted the most likely to…?
Never leave town. Even then, all my friends knew my family was here, my family’s pub Bailey's was also here, and it would take a miracle to move me. Which made me an easy target for the local secret-keepers when my dad died…
~I spent my prom night…?
Holding my dates hair back while she vomited. True story. I think someone spiked the punch and Sissie was not the type to hold liquor well. I cleaned her up as best I could and took her home to her mother without telling a soul. I just couldn’t embarrass her in front of everyone.
~I was the…president of the … or captain of the….team?
Honestly, none of the above. I worked at Bailey's after school and on weekends, though my parents were lenient enough to give me the go-ahead to spend time with my friends and just hang out. But between the job and helping watch out for my younger sisters, there wasn’t time to commit to something as demanding as sports.
~Growing up I wanted to be…?
A man my father could be proud of. Sure, I went through phases of wanting to be the next professional football star or a doctor or an astronaut. But my family is really close, and I couldn’t imagine leaving them behind. Especially after my father died. After all, who was going to keep my 3 younger sisters out of trouble?
~In college my crush was…?
Any girl who didn’t remind me of my high school crush. Emma Hartwell had been bad news-coming from a rough family on the wrong side of town. I wanted her, even though I knew my family wouldn’t approve. But the one time she needed me, I let her down. How could I face her after something like that?
What to know more about release dates for Colin’s upcoming book, Beneath the Surface? Sign up for my author newsletter, full of goodies, news, winners, and fun stuff. Just for joining, you will receive a free copy of my novella Snow Bound! The first taste of my Small Town Secrets series!
Check out the other Nice Girls Writing Naughty and their prizes here! There’s lots of sexy to be had! Thanks for dropping by!
Who’s been your favorite Teacher’s Pet so far???
Dani
So where’s the reader fun? Well, for one - a chance at a $50 gift certificate from Amazon. Just check out the post HERE for all the juicy details. And I promise it will be fun!
Oh, and did I mention that each author will be giving away of pretty cool prize on their blogs? Mine will be a free ecopies of the first 2 books of my Backstage Pass series, Finding Her Rhythm and Settling the Score. Just comment below with your name and an email addy so I can contact you if you win. Anyone who also signs up for my author newsletter (see sidebar) will get an additional entry!
Now that I got the contest stuff taken care of...lets bring on Dani's Pet.
Colin McIntyre is the hero for the first novel in my upcoming Small Town Secrets series, set in the rural Tennessee town of Caldwell. Secrets abound there. Everyone has something to hide.
Hidden in a quiet town along the Tennessee border, a secret gathering exists where the privileged fulfill their darkest desires. One of their members initiates a desperate act designed to bring home his lifelong obsession: Emma Hartwell. Drawn back to her hometown by the psychic connection with her twin, Emma must fight the stubborn silence of those around her in her quest to find her kidnapped sister.
Colin McIntyre hopes to make up for his past mistakes with Emma by helping her, but his own ties to the Gathering are exposed along the way. Can they fight the secrets and lies to rescue Emma’s sister… and their own chance at life-long love?
5 Fast Facts:
~ When I graduated high school I was voted the most likely to…?
Never leave town. Even then, all my friends knew my family was here, my family’s pub Bailey's was also here, and it would take a miracle to move me. Which made me an easy target for the local secret-keepers when my dad died…
~I spent my prom night…?
Holding my dates hair back while she vomited. True story. I think someone spiked the punch and Sissie was not the type to hold liquor well. I cleaned her up as best I could and took her home to her mother without telling a soul. I just couldn’t embarrass her in front of everyone.
~I was the…president of the … or captain of the….team?
Honestly, none of the above. I worked at Bailey's after school and on weekends, though my parents were lenient enough to give me the go-ahead to spend time with my friends and just hang out. But between the job and helping watch out for my younger sisters, there wasn’t time to commit to something as demanding as sports.
~Growing up I wanted to be…?
A man my father could be proud of. Sure, I went through phases of wanting to be the next professional football star or a doctor or an astronaut. But my family is really close, and I couldn’t imagine leaving them behind. Especially after my father died. After all, who was going to keep my 3 younger sisters out of trouble?
~In college my crush was…?
Any girl who didn’t remind me of my high school crush. Emma Hartwell had been bad news-coming from a rough family on the wrong side of town. I wanted her, even though I knew my family wouldn’t approve. But the one time she needed me, I let her down. How could I face her after something like that?
What to know more about release dates for Colin’s upcoming book, Beneath the Surface? Sign up for my author newsletter, full of goodies, news, winners, and fun stuff. Just for joining, you will receive a free copy of my novella Snow Bound! The first taste of my Small Town Secrets series!
Check out the other Nice Girls Writing Naughty and their prizes here! There’s lots of sexy to be had! Thanks for dropping by!
Who’s been your favorite Teacher’s Pet so far???
Dani
My fellow romance author Andrea Laurence has a new southern contemporary book out right now – FACING THE MUSIC. To celebrate the release, she’s hosting a Southern Movie Sweet Sixteen playoff bracket to let readers vote on which southern movie is really the greatest of all time. One reader will win a copy of the winning movie and a copy of FACING THE MUSIC just for voting! The contest runs through September 29th with a new pairing each day! The winner of the bracket and a winning reader will be announced on September 30th!
Today’s pairing is To Kill a Mockingbird VS The Help. I have to admit, even as an English major, I’ll be leaning toward The Help—funny and thought provoking movie. Reminds me of a Steel Magnolias from another era.
But don’t let me tell you how to vote! Join the fun and vote by visiting www.andrealaurence.com and look for the voting buttons on the sidebar. Check back each day to vote and see what movie comes out on top. Also be sure to check out FACING THE MUSIC, available at a special promotional price of $1.99 through the 30th.
Enjoy!
Dani
Today’s pairing is To Kill a Mockingbird VS The Help. I have to admit, even as an English major, I’ll be leaning toward The Help—funny and thought provoking movie. Reminds me of a Steel Magnolias from another era.
But don’t let me tell you how to vote! Join the fun and vote by visiting www.andrealaurence.com and look for the voting buttons on the sidebar. Check back each day to vote and see what movie comes out on top. Also be sure to check out FACING THE MUSIC, available at a special promotional price of $1.99 through the 30th.
Enjoy!
Dani
Have an awesome recipe that your family and friends rave about? Come share it on the Nice Girls Writing Naughty blog for a chance to win big prizes! $15 gift cards in each of 4 categories and an overall $50 gift card winner--just for sharing with us any day this week! Contest ends Friday, so get thee over there immediately! :)
I'm hanging out on the Nice Girls Writing Naughty blog today, chilling in the summer heat with a barbecue sauce recipe to liven up your next cookout!
My post is part of a Recipe Contest over the next two weeks with prizes galore, including a $50 grand prize gift card! Drop by and share your recipe for a chance to win the overall prize or 1 of 4 categories.
Welcome to my stop on the Sizzling Summer Blog Hop!
Summertime here in the south is hot and steamy. We have more than our fair share of humidity, but we also have more than our fair share of fun, and I love to include this in my books – especially my Backstage Pass series. After all, rock stars are not known for their predictable ways.
So here are my band Solar Uprising’s favorite ways to beat the sizzling heat:
BARBEQUES
If it's one thing rockers love to do, it's party. What better way in the summer then a barbecue and beer and a pool?
“Chicken fight!”
Becca wasted no time getting to her feet. “That would be my cue to exit. The annual chicken fight is definitely not my scene.” She strode toward the locker rooms, leaving Taylor to face the music.
She turned a wide-eyed gaze toward the rest of the party, which was rapidly dividing itself by groups of two. Even the teenagers. Her stomach started to churn, faster and faster, like a merry-go-round gaining speed.
She stayed put, sort of an “if I’m very still, no one will notice me” move. After all, no one had so far. But she should have known her luck would run out.
Not two minutes later Michael detached himself from the group and swam in her direction. Oh, that hot dog had been a mistake. She just might puke in the pool.
No. No no no. Please don’t make me do this. The last thing she wanted was for Michael Korvello to try to lift her. She could just imagine the stoic grunt as he realized just how much she weighed. Not to mention having to do it in front of a handful of women shaped like twigs. With boobs, of course.
His head lifted above the water with slick grace, the wetness somehow deepening the smoky blue of his eyes. “I need a partner, Taylor.”
She swallowed hard. “No, thanks.”
“Come on. You wouldn’t leave me hangin’, would ya?”
Her expression must have showcased some of her “you bet I would, mister” sentimentality, because the laughter in his ramped up. “Come on. Just a friendly game of chicken.” His emphasis on the word notated his challenge.
Just like he challenged her every day. Drawing her out, coaxing her to take the leap. But this time she had fear of taking her towel off in front of thirty-some-odd people on her side.
“Not happening.” She shook her head to drive her point home.
Above the slosh of people in the pool, a voice suddenly rang out. “I thought you said she was a cool nanny?”
A quick glance revealed the teens looking her way, and not a single soul left out of the pool, except one woman wrangling two toddlers.
And her.
So much for outgrowing peer pressure. Her “okay” got everyone back to their preparations and their eyes off her, thank God. But not Michael’s.
He watched with a raised brow as she stood next to her lounger. Her legs shook with the desire to run back to the locker rooms and hide. How could she possibly do this? But some teeny-tiny spark inside insisted she could ramp up that sexy glint in his eyes.
Fake it till you make it.
Sucking in her stomach, she let the towel drop to reveal her new swimsuit. His gaze traveled down the teal one-piece with interest, lingering where it dipped low over her cleavage. Turning, she draped her towel over her lounger. A totally unnecessary maneuver, but his quick intake of breath told her he’d seen the heart-shaped cutout right over the dimples at the small of her back.
Did he like them?
Remembering when those dimples had been the subject of ridicule rather than an intimate secret between lovers, she approached Michael with a touch of caution. When she was within a few steps of him, he breathed, “Damn, woman.”
Ah, victory.
A few deep breaths got her through the indignity of climbing onto Michael’s muscled shoulders. Thankfully he didn’t moan or stumble over her weight. The only thing that eased her self-consciousness was the feel of his wet skin against hers. His hands warming as they curled around her thighs. The flex of his arms as he balanced her securely.
Oh, she was so going to hell for her thoughts.
Luckily no one else seemed to be paying her any attention as one of the men yelled, “Ready. Set. Go!”
from Finding Her Rhythm, Book 1
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Summer nights provide many a chance to step off the beaten path and explore all the options. These bad boys will wonder off the straight and narrow every chance they get!
A slight breeze flirted with the ruffle of her skirt, playing around her bare legs. They came around a curve in the road, and Becca smiled. She had noticed the little park on their way over, but hadn’t taken the time for a thorough look. Swings and seesaws sat still in the darkness, with a pavilion and other equipment deeper in the shadows. An abundance of trees would keep the area shaded during hot summer days, but tonight they took on the magical qualities of an enchanted canopy.
“So pretty,” she murmured, pausing for a moment to take it in.
Daniel squeezed the hand he still held. “Come,” he said, sounding as if he had jumped into her little fantasy, “let’s go for a stroll in the park.”
She giggled as they stepped off the pavement, then walked slowly around, exploring the nooks and crannies. Becca soaked in the rustle of the leaves overhead and the occasional brush of Daniel’s body along her side. Finally he tugged her farther toward the shadows at the back. “I see a place perfect for a few adult games,” he said.
“Daniel, no.”
“Come on, cutie. Take a walk on the wild side with me.”
She wasn’t especially wild. At least, not without Daniel. But who could resist that gorgeous grin? A bit of necking never hurt, right?
Only she should know Daniel never did anything halfway. Guiding her into the stand of trees, he found a nice wide trunk to back her up against. She giggled as he nuzzled into her neck, then moaned as he sucked her skin. God, he felt so good.
“Becca, I don’t think I can wait until we get back to the hotel,” he murmured.
“You mean the one I can see from here?” she teased even while her hands pulled his hips closer. That didn’t help her case. She wanted to tease him again, but his words against her skin had her shivering with sensations. How could words turn her on so much?
“I want to open this demure little button-down of yours and expose those pretty pink nipples to the night air,” he said, his mouth traveling down as if to follow through. Her nipples reacted, tight and tingling, as the image filled her mind.
from Settling the Score, Book 2
BLESSED RAIN
One sure way to cool down is a steady summer shower. And who doesn't want to play in the rain? This bad boy definitely does.
Now she needed to deal with the reality.
Which was why she was trailing Sean through the mist in the dark. The words of his note had floated through her mind throughout the meal. You can’t hide from me forever, girlie. The flush that rose over her chest and heated her cheeks had drawn his eye, but he hadn’t remarked on it—or anything else for that matter.
She’d expected him to hunt her down as soon as they were dismissed. Instead he’d disappeared into the depths of the house with his brother. She’d wanted to seek him out but hid behind a book in the library for long moments trying to prepare her explanations.
Then she’d heard footsteps passing by. She was still buttoning her coat as she caught a glimpse of him rounding the corner of the building. Quickening her steps, she saw just a dark shadow before he was swallowed up by the cloaking mist.
Boy, he was moving fast. Like he had a ton of energy and no way to expend it. She totally sympathized.
Luckily the path he disappeared down led to the old ruin by the lake. It was one of the few places she hadn’t explored yet, but Clarissa had pointed it out. The pebbled path was lined with small lights at regular intervals. They provided just enough illumination for her to keep on track, even if her surroundings were obscured by the gray blanket hanging in the air.
Navigating the darkness gave her an excuse to slow down and put off the inevitable. She could admit it, even if she wouldn’t let herself give in to it. Reaching the looming stone structure, she paused for a moment of awe. The stone walls were ancient and beautiful in the gloom, so tall she couldn’t make out the top floor. The beauty touched her heart, as if the old building welcomed her. A deep breath for courage, then she stepped through the gaping doorway.
The damp chill increased inside the walls, introducing a slightly creepy factor. “Sean?” Her voice echoing in the space didn’t help. Maybe she should return to the warm fuzzies outside? Then a light beam appeared in the far doorway, sweeping rapidly across the ground to find her eyes. Ouch.
“Meghan?”
Relief rushed over her as she heard Sean’s voice, but her mortification returned too. She swallowed it down. He deserved an explanation for leaving him without a word, naked and needy.
“Hey.”
Wow—dynamic opening.
His steps were quiet across the grass that had taken over the inner floor. “Sorry, girlie. I didn’t think you’d be looking for me.”
Oh, I wouldn’t if my conscience would let me avoid it. “Were you meeting someone?"
“No. Just revisiting old memories.”
Glancing around at the stone walls, strong despite their crumbling mortar, she could see how this would be the perfect place for reminiscing. She shifted, not sure where to start. Couldn’t they just return to the mindless need of the early morning? That she could handle. When she had to think about things, not so much. She always said the wrong thing. Or other people seemed to think so.
“This is a cool place,” she said, glancing around the gloom. She could just make out a narrow staircase and a doorway leading into more rooms.
“Yes,” Sean said, his voice way more relaxed than she felt. “It was a crackin’ stage for games when Kieran and I were kids. We played here a lot.” The flashlight beam swept the interior, revealing age against the classic beauty. “Great relief from the orders and arguments waiting for us at the big house. And later, lots of privacy for meeting girls.”
from Striking a Chord, Book 3
As you can tell, these bad boys love to heat things up and keep life cool. I hope you'll consider joining them for an adventure! Speaking of, what's your favorite way to enjoy some summer fun? One lucky commenter will win a copy of Backstage Pass Books 1 & 2, Finding Her Rhythm & Settling the Score, on Sunday.
If you'd like to keep up to date on my book releases and cool happenings, please join my newsletter group here! And don't forget to check out the other blogs in the hop at www.justromance.me!
There’s nothing an author enjoys more than celebrating a new release with readers. Except celebrating TWO new releases!
Here’s a peek into Sean and Meghan’s story:
Success as a US rock star is payback to Irish drummer Sean Rosslair, whose father insisted music was a waste. Now Sean just needs to see the body to go with the smokin’ sexy voice of his new assistant, and his world will feel complete. But she ends up being the very woman he should never have.
Anxious to do a good deed, Meghan finally exposes her plus-size presence to her boss. Only he doesn’t react the way she expects—to her body or his brother. She takes her punishment for her white lie well—too well. Meghan can’t refrain from begging her boss for another spanking…but can she let go enough to embrace romance with a rockstar?
Can Sean teach Meghan his erotic secrets before a hidden enemy puts him out of commission—permanently?
Hot, hot, hot! And just in time for all that reading you’ll be doing this holiday weekend. Even better? Striking a Chord is only 99 cents through Monday! Grab your copy on Amazon.
Let's get on with the DANCE PARTY! What better way to introduce a rock star's book, huh? I’m sharing the songs that inspired me as I wrote Sean and Meghan’s story. When you’ve danced yourself silly and commented to enter the contest, run on over to Ella’s blog and party with some more awesome music.
* * *
Striking a Chord takes the Backstage Pass series international with its setting in Ireland. What could be sexier than being forced to stay in an old Manor house in the Irish countryside with a 100% Irish bad boy? Nothing that I know of…
Inspiration wasn’t in short supply—I plotted this book while on a trip to Ireland, Wales, and London. Everywhere I turned were castle ruins, stately manor houses, and some yummy, yummy eye candy! But once I was home, I really needed music to help the writing continue to flow.
I found the perfect soundtrack with an international flair in Goo Goo Dolls Magnetic. Sean is a whole hog rebel! He started doing his own thing in his teens and hasn’t looked back. Meghan’s more of a rebel-in-training, and Sean’s the perfect teacher.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUi8gQPsMdw?rel=0&w=560&h=315]
One taste and he can’t get enough of her curvy body or intrepid spirit. He aches to teach her the key to setting her sensuality free.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlDAq56viD0?rel=0&w=560&h=315]
Meghan grew up in an uber-religious community. A single fall from grace and now everyone is watching to see if her journey away from her home town leads her ‘down the path to sin’. Sean sees the pain in Meghan’s heart and aches to erase the wounds inflicted by others. As she embraces her true self, she sets aside judgment and lets her own wild side come alive. And her redemption just might show Sean a few things he's never let himself see before.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DI7mKUqidhg?rel=0&w=560&h=315]
I hope you’ll join me in celebrating my Irish drummer! What’s a celebration without prizes? Ella and I have a joint giveaway. To enter, simply leave a comment on both my blog and hers, telling us your favorite party song. Your comment enters you in the giveaway. A comment on both blogs enters you TWICE. Like me on FACEBOOK or SIGN UP FOR MY NEWSLETTER and get a THIRD entry.
Thank you so much for joining us for our Double Release Day! Its not really a party all by myself. But with friends? It’s Double the Fun!
Dani
Oh, 1 more thing—if you’ve never read mine or Ella’s books, I’ve got another great way for you to win! We have an interview today on Nice Girls Writing Naughty Readers Group where we’re talking twins, hotties, and of course, prizes! One lucky commenter will win the first books in BOTH the Secrets and Backstage Pass series. So check that out too!
Today its Double the Pleasure, Double the Fun, and DOUBLE THE PRIZES! Because my twin, Ella Sheridan and I, have Double Releases. Today, Striking a Chord, Backstage Pass Book 3, hits the virtual shelves. Ella’s novella Just a Little More also releases today! So its time to PARTY!
In honor of sharing a release day (and a womb for 9 months!), we’re having a release day party and giveaway – a $30 gift card to Amazon or B&N PLUS copies of the first book in my Secrets series and Dani’s Backstage Pass series. We’re talking serious hottie goodness here, people! Be sure to check out the giveaway at the end of both our blogs. And remember, the more you participate – on my blog and Ella’s – the more entries you get to the giveaway. * * *
Here’s a peek into Sean and Meghan’s story:
Success as a US rock star is payback to Irish drummer Sean Rosslair, whose father insisted music was a waste. Now Sean just needs to see the body to go with the smokin’ sexy voice of his new assistant, and his world will feel complete. But she ends up being the very woman he should never have.
Anxious to do a good deed, Meghan finally exposes her plus-size presence to her boss. Only he doesn’t react the way she expects—to her body or his brother. She takes her punishment for her white lie well—too well. Meghan can’t refrain from begging her boss for another spanking…but can she let go enough to embrace romance with a rockstar?
Can Sean teach Meghan his erotic secrets before a hidden enemy puts him out of commission—permanently?
Hot, hot, hot! And just in time for all that reading you’ll be doing this holiday weekend. Even better? Striking a Chord is only 99 cents through Monday! Grab your copy on Amazon.
Let's get on with the DANCE PARTY! What better way to introduce a rock star's book, huh? I’m sharing the songs that inspired me as I wrote Sean and Meghan’s story. When you’ve danced yourself silly and commented to enter the contest, run on over to Ella’s blog and party with some more awesome music.
* * *
Striking a Chord takes the Backstage Pass series international with its setting in Ireland. What could be sexier than being forced to stay in an old Manor house in the Irish countryside with a 100% Irish bad boy? Nothing that I know of…
Inspiration wasn’t in short supply—I plotted this book while on a trip to Ireland, Wales, and London. Everywhere I turned were castle ruins, stately manor houses, and some yummy, yummy eye candy! But once I was home, I really needed music to help the writing continue to flow.
I found the perfect soundtrack with an international flair in Goo Goo Dolls Magnetic. Sean is a whole hog rebel! He started doing his own thing in his teens and hasn’t looked back. Meghan’s more of a rebel-in-training, and Sean’s the perfect teacher.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUi8gQPsMdw?rel=0&w=560&h=315]
One taste and he can’t get enough of her curvy body or intrepid spirit. He aches to teach her the key to setting her sensuality free.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlDAq56viD0?rel=0&w=560&h=315]
Meghan grew up in an uber-religious community. A single fall from grace and now everyone is watching to see if her journey away from her home town leads her ‘down the path to sin’. Sean sees the pain in Meghan’s heart and aches to erase the wounds inflicted by others. As she embraces her true self, she sets aside judgment and lets her own wild side come alive. And her redemption just might show Sean a few things he's never let himself see before.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DI7mKUqidhg?rel=0&w=560&h=315]
I hope you’ll join me in celebrating my Irish drummer! What’s a celebration without prizes? Ella and I have a joint giveaway. To enter, simply leave a comment on both my blog and hers, telling us your favorite party song. Your comment enters you in the giveaway. A comment on both blogs enters you TWICE. Like me on FACEBOOK or SIGN UP FOR MY NEWSLETTER and get a THIRD entry.
Thank you so much for joining us for our Double Release Day! Its not really a party all by myself. But with friends? It’s Double the Fun!
Dani
Oh, 1 more thing—if you’ve never read mine or Ella’s books, I’ve got another great way for you to win! We have an interview today on Nice Girls Writing Naughty Readers Group where we’re talking twins, hotties, and of course, prizes! One lucky commenter will win the first books in BOTH the Secrets and Backstage Pass series. So check that out too!
Birthdays are usually fun for me. I love celebrating mine and everyone else’s. But this year was different.
I hit one of those “milestone birthdays”.
The more I thought about the # in the days leading up to it, the more depressed I became. Not for vain reasons (I’ve been fighting the uphill battle with my body for many years), but for more ephemeral reasons, like:
~Am I where I want to be at this point in my life?
~Do I still have time to get where I want to be? (that’s the pessimist in me talking)
~Am I treasuring the important things in my life?
~Am I dismissing the good things and focusing on the bad? (natural for a pessimist)
~How many more years do I have to feel like I’m not measuring up? I thought that was supposed to go away already!
Thinking brought me some answers I wanted, and some I didn’t. Isn’t that always the way? But I have to say my family and friends made the day a very special one without too much fuss. I was grateful to start a new decade surrounded by my loved ones. That’s the best way to do it, right?
WINNER
The winner from my Summer for Love blog hop post is Kelly Thompson. She’ll receive a $10 Amazon card and a copy of my first Backstage Pass book, Finding Her Rhythm.
Because of all the great responses, I’m giving away 2 additional copies of Finding Her Rhythm to Brandi Dagwan and Renata Sbr. I’ll be contacting everyone via email. Thank you for visiting with me on my blog!
Dani
*photo used courtesy of rossvana, Creative Commons
The more I thought about the # in the days leading up to it, the more depressed I became. Not for vain reasons (I’ve been fighting the uphill battle with my body for many years), but for more ephemeral reasons, like:
~Am I where I want to be at this point in my life?
~Do I still have time to get where I want to be? (that’s the pessimist in me talking)
~Am I treasuring the important things in my life?
~Am I dismissing the good things and focusing on the bad? (natural for a pessimist)
~How many more years do I have to feel like I’m not measuring up? I thought that was supposed to go away already!
Thinking brought me some answers I wanted, and some I didn’t. Isn’t that always the way? But I have to say my family and friends made the day a very special one without too much fuss. I was grateful to start a new decade surrounded by my loved ones. That’s the best way to do it, right?
WINNER
The winner from my Summer for Love blog hop post is Kelly Thompson. She’ll receive a $10 Amazon card and a copy of my first Backstage Pass book, Finding Her Rhythm.
Because of all the great responses, I’m giving away 2 additional copies of Finding Her Rhythm to Brandi Dagwan and Renata Sbr. I’ll be contacting everyone via email. Thank you for visiting with me on my blog!
Dani
*photo used courtesy of rossvana, Creative Commons
Summer in the South means an abundance of steamy heat. When you’re trying to keep cool, its not so great, but when you’re ready to spice things up—oh, yeah!
The question is, how do we add romance to those sultry summer nights? Here are a few ideas from those of us with experience. :)
*Dancing and drinks at the local bar.
*Skinny dippin’ at the beach or lake.
*Long walks in the dark.
*Lemonade on the front porch swing.
*A private striptease with nothin’ but the crickets for music.
*Settin’ up a radio on the tailgate of a truck and having a personal dance party.
*Bonfires.
*Playin’ in the pool (with or without swimsuits).
*Long nighttime drives with the windows down.
What’s your best idea for a hot summer date? One lucky commenter will win a $10 Amazon giftcard! Sign up for my newsletter here for an extra chance to win!
Happy Reading!
Dani
Out now: Settling the Score. One hot rocker. One determined woman. Many hot southern nights!
For more Summer for Love blog fun, check out the list of participants on The Romance Troupe.
Out now: Settling the Score. One hot rocker. One determined woman. Many hot southern nights!
For more Summer for Love blog fun, check out the list of participants on The Romance Troupe.
A SUMMER FOR LOVE BLOG HOP JUNE 4-8
Check out the GRAND PRIZES! (6) $50 Amazon or B&N Gift Cards
Comment with your name and email to be entered into the Grand Prize drawing. Comments without name and email will not be counted. Commenting on each and every stop will increase your chances of winning. Winners for the (6) Grand Prizes will be drawn and announced on THE ROMANCE TROUPE blog by June 10th using random.org to determine each winner.
I'm celebrating the commencement of the holidays today, with romance authors and bloggers during the Romance Troupe's Home for the Holidays blog hop. And what makes the holidays homey and memorable for all of us? The FOOD!
I love cooking for the holidays, seeing my family and friends enjoy things that I've made. I give away goodies for gifts (men especially like this) and look forward to holiday parties that give me a reason to cook. Now the clean-up... that's something I never look forward to!
So I thought I'd share this super easy, low mess, divine chocolate flourless cake recipe. A co-worker, who has to eat gluten free, made it for a department party. It tastes like chocolate melting on your tongue. Best of all? It can be made ahead of time and stored or frozen. I hope it makes your holiday season easy and enjoyable!
Flourless Chocolate Cake
4 oz. fine quality bittersweet chocolate (not unsweetened)
1 stick unsalted butter (1/2 cup)
3/4 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Powdered sugar for sprinkling
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Flour and butter an 8 inch round baking pan. Line the bottom of pan with a round of wax paper; butter paper. Chop chocolate into small pieces. In a double boiler or metal bowl set over a saucepan of barely simmering water, melt chocolate with butter. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat. Add sugar and whisk. Add eggs and whisk again. Sift cocoa powder over chocolate mixture and whisk until just combined.
Pour batter into pan and bake in middle of oven for 25 minutes. The top should form a thin crust and cake will puff. Be careful not to overcook. Cool the cake on a rack for 5 minutes before removing. Cake will deflate as it cools.
Serving options: Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a simple dressing. Serve with whipped cream and your favorite berries to dress it up. Serve with ice cream or sorbet for a cool treat.
Note: Once cake cools, it will keep for a week in an airtight container. It will also freeze well for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in refrigerator and serve at room temperature.
In honor of the cooler weather, here's a wintery sneak peek:
Feeling the situation had gotten way too serious, he paused beside the bed before launching her into the air. Her squeal echoed around the room as she landed and bounced, the fluffy blankets jumping under the impact. Now that made for some interesting shimmies. He couldn’t help but grin as she burst into laughter. Then his eyes narrowed on the now empty expanse around her.
Empty except for one thing.
“What’s this?”
Her look was confused until she saw the direction of his gaze. With a cry she reached across for the nearest blanket and jerked it toward her, probably to cover it up, but— Too late. He’d already seen it.
“Since when does a pretty princess like you need a vibrator?”
Hand fishing under the blanket, he pulled out a soft gel vibrator. Pink, of course.
“Give me that,” she said, grabbing for the toy, only to come up with empty air.
Damon held it higher, the transparent soft gel allowing him to see the candle on the dresser through its pink surface. A silver, cylindrical motor provided a hard core. “Very nice, Princess.”
“Please, please give it back.”
He turned his gaze from the little toy to the woman who was giving him more surprises than a night out with his army buddies. “Why? I think you’ll have more fun if I’m at the wheel.”
For once Miss Priss had nothing to say. No pithy comeback, no sarcastic put-down, no prim comments. Simply a gaping mouth and wide eyes, as if she couldn’t believe what she’d just heard come out of his mouth. So he set out to prove himself right.
I love cooking for the holidays, seeing my family and friends enjoy things that I've made. I give away goodies for gifts (men especially like this) and look forward to holiday parties that give me a reason to cook. Now the clean-up... that's something I never look forward to!
So I thought I'd share this super easy, low mess, divine chocolate flourless cake recipe. A co-worker, who has to eat gluten free, made it for a department party. It tastes like chocolate melting on your tongue. Best of all? It can be made ahead of time and stored or frozen. I hope it makes your holiday season easy and enjoyable!
Flourless Chocolate Cake
4 oz. fine quality bittersweet chocolate (not unsweetened)
1 stick unsalted butter (1/2 cup)
3/4 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Powdered sugar for sprinkling
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Flour and butter an 8 inch round baking pan. Line the bottom of pan with a round of wax paper; butter paper. Chop chocolate into small pieces. In a double boiler or metal bowl set over a saucepan of barely simmering water, melt chocolate with butter. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat. Add sugar and whisk. Add eggs and whisk again. Sift cocoa powder over chocolate mixture and whisk until just combined.
Pour batter into pan and bake in middle of oven for 25 minutes. The top should form a thin crust and cake will puff. Be careful not to overcook. Cool the cake on a rack for 5 minutes before removing. Cake will deflate as it cools.
Serving options: Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a simple dressing. Serve with whipped cream and your favorite berries to dress it up. Serve with ice cream or sorbet for a cool treat.
Note: Once cake cools, it will keep for a week in an airtight container. It will also freeze well for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in refrigerator and serve at room temperature.
In honor of the cooler weather, here's a wintery sneak peek:
Snow Bound by Dani Wade
Feeling the situation had gotten way too serious, he paused beside the bed before launching her into the air. Her squeal echoed around the room as she landed and bounced, the fluffy blankets jumping under the impact. Now that made for some interesting shimmies. He couldn’t help but grin as she burst into laughter. Then his eyes narrowed on the now empty expanse around her.
Empty except for one thing.
“What’s this?”
Her look was confused until she saw the direction of his gaze. With a cry she reached across for the nearest blanket and jerked it toward her, probably to cover it up, but— Too late. He’d already seen it.
“Since when does a pretty princess like you need a vibrator?”
Hand fishing under the blanket, he pulled out a soft gel vibrator. Pink, of course.
“Give me that,” she said, grabbing for the toy, only to come up with empty air.
Damon held it higher, the transparent soft gel allowing him to see the candle on the dresser through its pink surface. A silver, cylindrical motor provided a hard core. “Very nice, Princess.”
“Please, please give it back.”
He turned his gaze from the little toy to the woman who was giving him more surprises than a night out with his army buddies. “Why? I think you’ll have more fun if I’m at the wheel.”
For once Miss Priss had nothing to say. No pithy comeback, no sarcastic put-down, no prim comments. Simply a gaping mouth and wide eyes, as if she couldn’t believe what she’d just heard come out of his mouth. So he set out to prove himself right.
Snow Bound is only 99 cents at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
One lucky commenter will win a $10 gift card from Amazon or Barnes & Noble for some holiday shopping! Simply share your favorite holiday dessert with us (and recipe, if you want). Sign up for my newsletter and get a second chance at the prize! (Please include your email address to win!) Enjoy!
And There's More: each comment with email address will be entered in the Grand Prize Giveaway from The Romance Troupe. (First Prize = $450+ Gift Card) (Second Prize = 1 eBook from each participating Author) So comment for a chance to win big!!!
Check out more Home for the Holiday recipes at The Romance Troupe Home for the Holidays blog hop list!
I'm joining the lovely Lee Hyatt of Author Sound Relations on her lovely blog, Tote Bags 'n Blogs! If you've ever wondered how crazy-making it can be to release a book, I've revealed a few secrets in my guest blog today. :) And there's a giveaway! So comment for a chance to win!
