Playing Catch Up

Hello blogosphere! I know. I KNOW! Kitt, where’ve you been? Your posting has been sporadic at best lately…

You’re right. I’m sorry. Like everyone else, 2020 has been a rollercoaster. But I’m kinda over talking about the bad and the sad, okay? So let’s talk about what I’ve been up to, shall we?

First, I’m practically waist deep into my next book from my Lovers and Lyrics series…and yes, I’ve got a name for it. How does Go Ahead and Break My Heart sound? Personally, I love it. And I’ve started sharing teasers and info on my Facebook Author Page and also on Goodreads, so I’d love for you to either friend or follow me for updates. I’ve also recently fallen in love with Bookbub and would love to be found there.

I also had a chance to catch up with one of my favorite fellow bloggers and dear friends, Girlboner’s own August McLaughlin, for her smexilicious podcast. Those of you who’ve been regulars on here know just how much I love talking down-to-earth, real sex discussions…tips included (and not just on the peen…hehehe).

If you wanna take a listen, here are a few different ways you can make that happen: Girboner Radio’s Homepage, Apple podcasts, or iHeart Radio. If you’d like to get an idea of what we talked about first, drop by August’s blog to get the Cliff’s Notes version. 🙂 And no, I’m not gonna tell you what I talked about…mostly because I’m hoping you’ll get curious and check it out, then give some feedback.

But it’s not always all about me. Well, ok. It kind of is…in that this is my blog and I share all my stuff. Next up is my latest author friend/book discovery. E.J. Frost is a UK author I’ve gotten quite friendly with online.

The truth is, I get nervous about reading and reviewing a book once I know and love the author because…what if I hate it? What if they’re not as good as I built them up to be in my mind? Will it change how I look at them? Well, the good news is… SHE WAS FABULOUS! (And I left her a 5 Star Review.) If you haven’t checked her out yet, you should… Although Daddy/littles aren’t my kink, I do enjoy reading them, and the way she went about it? Super intriguing. Can’t wait for the sequel!

Last, but certainly not least…. I’ve been craving more S.H. Timmins, and since I’ve already read all her dark books and her YA/NA and loved them, I decided to go back to the beginning of her writing career. Yes, I hit the backlist and found her first book which was a romantic comedy. While, yes, you could tell it was her first book due to a few editing issues, the magic of her writing is more than enough to overcome it.

The above quote is from her book, Bent, that I’m in the middle of reading (and you’re welcome to either read along or follow my journey on Goodreads), and I’ve laughed out loud more than once. No, penile fractures are nothing to laugh about….but they kind of are, too.

You know what else was cool? It was kinda like I was psychic because… Look what she just announced on FB today!

Yup! She said it’s coming soon and I, for one, can’t wait!

So those are the good things besides my sister and her family moving out of Chicago and closer to yours truly… Now that they’re less than 30 minutes away, I can see everyone, including my sweet nephew, pretty much whenever I’d like.

What silver linings has this pandemic brought you? Do you need a hug? I’m happy to supply those, too.

A Tale of Two Fathers

As we celebrate Fathers and all the Dads (both with us and who’ve left us way too soon, leaving a giant hole where they used to be), reflection is natural.

In real life, my bio-dad wasn’t much there for me, but my step-dad who came into my life when I was nearly out of the house has been there for pretty much every milestone and hard time I’ve come across, and I’m grateful.

It also got me thinking about the awesome new release by the awesome author S.H. Timmins. This is a New Adult coming of age book with an awesome cast of characters to fall in love with and villains to seriously hate. Why am I mentioning this book on Father’s Day?

Well, imagine you’re a youngster from the wrong side of the tracks and your grandmother passed away leaving you and your single mother pretty much homeless. Shortly after the funeral, a wealthy man pulls up, talks to your mom, and before you know it you’re living a new life in a new home on the right side of the tracks. Turns out the guy was her mom’s boss and he offered to “rescue” them if her mother would be his wife, become mother to his son (the same age as the young girl), and never look back at her past.

Doesn’t sound too horrible so far, right? I mean, he took the little girl, Jolene, in and put her in all the best schools. How very altruistic, right? But things aren’t all that they seem. Especially after her mother dies, leaving her alone and in this man’s care.

Of course, there’s another dad in this story. He was the man Jolene’s mom had been dating before her grandmother died. His son, Cruz, was Jolene’s best friend in the whole world, and they both adored her.

Turns out that Cruz’s dad and Jo’s mom had been high school sweethearts, they’d broken up and he married Cruz’s mother because she needed his help. She found herself dumped by her college boyfriend and pregnant with a family who kicked her out. He stepped up. Even knowing Cruz wasn’t his, he married the friend in need which cost him his chance with Jo’s mom.

And yet he never looked back. Until his wife passed away from a terrible accident and they reconnected through their kids. Sounds like a good man, too. Right?

And yet one is an amazing person and one is a monster. The type of villain you can’t forgive or forget with no redeeming qualities whatsoever. In Echoes of Us, Timmins wrote the characters so well that I felt actual hate for a fictional character. I cheered for goodness to win. Nearly died in anticipation of comeuppance and justice for the wronged. And the romance? Ooh la la! Yummy!

Curious? Don’t believe me? Check the book out. I dare ya! I guarantee you’ll love all the twists and turns and you’ll become a huge fan of hers. Just. Like. Me.

Talking Vengeance With Lexie Pearce

Those of you who’ve followed this blog for a long time know that this is where I enjoy sharing my passions and the random thought that comes to mind.

L. J. Kentowski

One of my biggest passions is reading and writing, so when an opportunity arrives to share an amazing piece of work (I’m talking the woman, not the book) along with her exciting new release, I jump at the chance! This woman, L. J. Kentowski, has not only been an incredible supporter over the years, but she’s also a ridiculously talented author.

So, of course, when I heard she was coming out with a new book, I was thrilled! I mean, I’ve been a fan since I read and reviewed her first book right here on THIS BLOG!

And then I read the SNEAK PEEK she posted on her website and I was sold!

When I saw the gorgeous cover and read the FABULOUS BOOK, I begged for an interview…. With Lexie Pierce! I mean, she’s looks like Cassadee Pope AND she’s rocking black angels wings. It practically screamed BADASS! And L. J., generous woman that she is, set it up.

I looked down at the paper where I’d written the address, then looked up at the monstrosity of a mansion. Yup! I was in the right place. So I rang the doorbell.

The door swung open, and there stood the fallen angel, herself… Lexie Pierce, in the flesh. I’m not gonna lie. My jaw dropped. She was as stunning in person as she’d been in my imagination. Hovering behind her, stood the heart-stoppingest mountain of a man I’d ever seen. Everything about him oozed danger and sex appeal.

Me: Hi! Thank you so much for agreeing to meet with me, Lexie! I’ve been dying for my readers to learn more about you. (I shrug sheepishly) And for me to ask all the extra questions I’ve been dying to know.

Lexie: Anything for my girl, L.J. Ries, stop hovering and go somewhere!

Ries rumbled something under his breath as he walks away.

Lexie: Now, Why don’t we get started…

Me: So tell me a little bit about yourself. How exactly does one become a fallen angel?

Lexie: Well, I guess I’d say it comes down to intent, both in life and death. Those sins you committed throughout your life—you’re accountable for them. You either repent or you don’t. And don’t expect to fool the guards at the pearly gates because they see right through you. Literally. My only intention at the gates was to ask those guards for directions to the fastest elevator to hell to pick up my black wings.

Me: So how painful was it to make that choice? I mean, there were physical and emotional ramifications, right?

Lexie: Honestly, I felt nothing. I had already become numbed to the pain after my parents were murdered and my sister taken by that piece of shit fanger. The only emotion I felt was vengeance, and I was willing to do anything to get it.

Me: Was heaven really that unappealing? Was there nothing that made you want to stay?

Lexie: Of course, heaven was appealing. My parents were there. But I really didn’t have a choice. Revenge drove me to my decisions. My sister was still out there somewhere, and I had to find her. But most of all, the fanger needed to pay.

Me: So tell me about Jaz. She seems pretty cool… How would you describe your friendship? Is she kind of a surrogate sister to replace the one taken from you?

Lexie: I guess I never really thought of it that way, but now that you mention it, I guess she did become kind of a surrogate sister after a while. Initially, I didn’t intend to have anyone by my side in my mission of revenge, especially a werewolf, but after I saved her from the dirty vamps who were trying to feed on her, I felt an obligation to keep her safe, so I started training her. Eventually, she just became a permanent fixture in my death. It certainly didn’t hurt to have her badass, nerd skills to help track down my enemy.

Me: Do you think you’ll ever be able to get your sister back?

Lexie: In this crazy ass world? I’ve learned anything is possible. Especially after going through everything I have. NOTHING is as it seems.

Me: True enough. So let’s get to the dirt… like Reis–what was your REAL first impression?

Lexie: He took my breath away. I had to remind myself those fangs of his made him my enemy, and he was made that way to lure me in. For the first time I thought about getting a little taste of a vamp before killing him.

Me: So, inquiring minds wanna know! What does he do that absolutely melts your panties?

Lexie: Aside from looking like an Adonis that makes your breath catch at a mere glance? The dirty thoughts he plants in my head. Holy hell, that man has built up an imagination in all his years. And, okay, don’t tell him I said this, but his overprotective nature is kinda hot.

A deep baritone voice rumbles out, “Kinda, my ass. You love it.” I look around for the source of the voice…

Lexie: (An irritated look comes over her face as she bellows out.) Out of my head, Draeger!

Me: So that was him? (I grin as Lexie nods sheepishly.) Then maybe this next question is a bit self explanatory. What things make you want to kiss him and knock him on his ass simultaneously?

Lexie: Did I mention his overprotective nature? Yeah, that. Drives me nuts when he knows I’m fully capable of handling myself. Hell, I’ve even handled him a time or two. Granted, I think that only made him horny, but still.

Me: So, if you had to pick your favorite body part on Reis?

Ries sounds delighted as he interrupts, this time from around the corner where it’s now obvious he’s been shamelessly eavesdropping. “Can’t wait to hear this one, Love.”

Lexie: (Looking thoroughly exasperated and amused.) Reis, OUT! (She waits until she hears footsteps) I can’t pick. There’s too many! Okay, well, there’s one that stands out, of course (a wicked grin spreads across her face). And I will go to my eternal death denying I ever said this, but those fangs are capable of amazing things at the right times and in the right places.

Me: Okay, thanks for being so patient. Last question… What do you love best about yourself?

Lexie: (Looking at me like I’ve been dropped on my head, then breaking out into a huge grin.) Oh, that one’s easy. My weapons! What girl doesn’t love her toys? 😉

And with a final flourish, Lexie spreads her wings for me to appreciate, thanks me for coming, and shows me to the door.

To pick up your copy of Descended in Vengeance, click HERE!

Eating It Up…And Loving it

So I decided to challenge myself a little more this year. I’ve been dying to support an amazing author and critique partner by buying and reading her dark series. Why? Because it’s out of my comfort zone and she’s a skilled storyteller. I thought I would admire her talent, but it would be more from a professional or clinical aspect. Instead, I was drawn in.

S. H. Timmins

The way S. H. Timmins understands human nature and how we’re all flawed, but beautiful is amazing. How she finds twisted souls and either finds their matches or helps them discover a complimentary opposite is awe inspiring. And she hammered that lesson home with her second book, Fears in the Dark.

How? How does she do it? 

Ms. Timmins takes dark, wounded, practically feral creatures who have little understanding or appreciation for the things we tend to value and makes us care about them. We want to see them find their version of happiness. We want to see that embracing those things that make us cringe and use it to heal or find peace and acceptance. And love. Just the way they are.

Dark is usually a hard limit for me. But if everyone wrote dark the way this lady does? It just might become my new addiction. 

I thought this one was going to be the hardest read, what with Blake’s tendency towards biting and hints of possible cannibalism in the first book. And to pair him up with a sweet little book shop owner? I scratched my head and wondered…how’s that gonna work? Turns out I was worried for nothing. Hell, these two tortured souls might have even been sweeter than Loki and his Little Cat. 

Either way, this is a can’t miss if you love dark reads! Ms. Timmins is sublime with how she rolls out this world of darkness, and you won’t want to miss it.

So how do you plan on challenging yourself this year? Any personal growth plans? Is there anyone you’d love to show a little love and support to? Any great reads? You’re welcome to share a link in the comments as well as why the person is deserving of a little love!

Mixing Family and Business @BSommerland Style

Work can get pretty complicated and time consuming. For many it’s a source of frustration and despair. Why else would there be so many crazy TGIF memes and gifs? Why do people usually need to cut loose and party so intensely on Friday nights? To escape, of course.

But what if you couldn’t escape because you’re not only siblings, but you worked together? Then imagine you rarely saw eye-to-eye. What if he was a bit self absorbed, often angry, and used to getting what he wanted, when he wanted…including sex? It makes for a pretty challenging sounding life, right?

And if I told you this was a book? You’d probably be relieved, right? Because all this shit is happening to someone else? Well, that someone else is the sexy as hell Alder Trousseau. And that family business? A metal band where he’s the sexy pretty boy guitar player and his older brother is the lead singer. So that Friday escape? Rarely happens for him because they’re pretty much trapped on a tour bus or in hotels together. That’s challenging enough under the best of circumstances, and these aren’t them.

Why? Because they’ve already lost their oldest brother to the family business and rough living. Because the roadie that Alder is a bit in love with, Jesse, has history with big brother, Brave. And because the sexy new dancer, a former child actress named Danica, has suddenly piqued his interest just as it looks like he may have his shot with Jesse.

Oh, and did I mention the death threats he’s been getting? Yes, Alder has a lot going on. Will he get his man? Win the girl? Die trying? Or will he somehow find happiness against nearly insurmountable odds?

Now if you’ve ever read a Bianca Sommerland book, you know she’s a badass that has a way of heating up the pages of the books she writes whether we’re talking hockey romance, gay military, or dark BDSM styled stories. She weaves stories seamlessly and fearlessly with a sexual freedom that tittilates and leaves you begging for more…and Backlash, the first book in her Winter’s Wrath series is no different. And, right now, it’s FREE! If you have not checked her out yet, how’s your chance! I promise you won’t regret it!

I’ve been a fan of Bianca Sommerland ever since I discovered her Dartmouth Cobra hockey series. I loved the raw sensuality in her writing. I dug that her books often encompassed ménage or more relationships, however her characters directed her to go. She’s the kind of writer who looks at boundaries and rules, flips them the bird, and does what she feels is right.

Several years back, when she was just getting established, we were both at An author/reader event called Authors After Dark in Savannah and I just missed her. But I got my shot again at the Shameless Book Con back in 2016. And she was just as great in person as she was online. She colors outside the lines, boldly writes her passions, and does it with style. She is definitely someone worth reading AND stalking on social media.

Have you read any of Bianca’s books? Curious? Did I pique your curiosity? Who are your favorite rock star authors? You know me… Kitt’s always Curious. 😉

The Unique Tale Self Discovery and Sexual Awakening by @MeganReel

Those of you who regularly read my blog posts already know that I’m all about female empowerment and sexuality, so when a friend told me that there was a book that whose premise I might find very intriguing, I thought, “why not?” I’m all about discovering something new and fun, especially if it also allows me to support a fellow author.

So I looked the book up.

Not gonna lie. I balked for a second because, let’s be real. The cover’s kind of unfortunate. And I’m a bit of a cover whore (yes, Anna Cade, we share that in common). But, I decided to try to overlook the aesthetic and give it a shot anyway.

I’m soooo glad I did!

Here’s the low down skinny on this book. The very beginning of The Queen was a little confusing and slow as the author, Megan Reel, laid the foundation for the world she’s building…but it quickly evened out into one of the more intriguing premises I’ve read in a long time!

Truth is, it was very interesting to me to read a unique version of a matriarchal society where the peace of a nation was held in the hands of a lone female ruler. And here’s the female fantasy kicker: The Queen was expected to take 6 male consorts– all masked, unknown to her (and the rest of her country), and representing different, sensual animalistic features. Technically their purpose is to give her a female heir to take the crown.

But that’s where it gets really tasty, not to mention exciting…. Because as “peaceful” as everything is supposed to be, there’s definitely intrigue in the form of an assassination threat on her head. All of this is occurring at an annual feast that this country puts on in celebration of the men that the Queen (who is a virgin due to gaining the throne at an early age after her mother is killed) will be given as consorts.

Alendra, the Queen, is outwardly self possessed, intent on following her mother’s footsteps. She’d been told that her control and regal demeanor are key. That she should keep herself separated and untouched by the world around her. But, like many of us, she’s NOT her mother. She’s both passionate and a bit of afraid of her own desires, but determined in her self discovery. So she seeks guidance in overcoming her fears of the unknown and rediscovers a mysterious friend from her youth who challenges her and pushes her to think more; be more.

And then the icing on the cake came as her own sexual awakening came in the form of a night of sexual decadence and bliss, fulfilling so many of the various fantasies we, as women, have about taking and being taken.

The cherry topper? This is just the beginning of this series, and I’m dying of curiosity to see where Megan Reel takes us next!

So, although it was a bit of a slow start, it definitely turned on the heat and left you wanting more. Hopefully, the next cover will tease the senses the way that the author did between the pages!

Yes, I’m saying I would definitely recommend this book. What about you guys? What book turned out to be much more than the cover for you? Are you a cover whore? Is there a new author you’d care to share with me?

Introducing S. J. Maylee and Taking Chances

Introducing S.J. Maylee

I’d like to take a moment to introduce you all to S. J. Maylee. On joining WordPress a little over a year ago, her blog was one of the first I began to follow. Today we’re celebrating the launch of her first published work, a novella through Evernight Publishing called Taking Chances. Take it away, S. J.!

Taking Chances

(The Love Projects #1)

by: S.J. Maylee

Genre: Erotic Romance with D/s

Length: Novella

Published: August 23, 2013

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

TAKING CHANCES BLURB:

Lydia’s father walked away from her when she was eight. She’s struggled to not let him affect her, but fears she wasn’t loveable enough to make him stay. Jake wants to love one woman, but after scaring the last woman he met outside of the club, he doubts he has the right. She protects her heart by sticking with her fantasies, and he lives by a set of rules that excludes women who choose a vanilla lifestyle.

The two will be kept in a conference room working together until their special project is complete. If Lydia and Jake hold tight to their bland lives, they’ll always yearn for love that is out of reach. But together they can find common ground, passion, and a reason to take chances. Once they discover the grand possibilities of the love they desire, they find themselves in the very place they tried never to be again, facing unguaranteed love.

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18337826-taking-chances

TAKING CHANCES EXCERPT:

“Come on in, Lydia. I want to talk about a few things before we get started today. We need to make it quick, since we need to report to Keller at ten this morning.” When she remained in her spot he added, “Lydia, come here.”

Not wanting Gina to take anything further from her, she lifted her head and walked to Jake. She stopped at his desk, but felt instantly unworthy. Gina was more Jake’s style. She fought the need to lower her chin.

“Look at me, Lydia.”

He pushed her. “Why?” She shifted her gaze and hit him with her direct stare.

“Thank you. I needed to see your eyes.” He reached out and swiped a lock of hair from her face. He tucked the strand behind her ear, and let his finger drag down her face to her shoulder. All the while his gaze captured hers, not letting go. “How are you this morning?”

“I’m okay.”

“Okay? Hmm, maybe I should do something to improve your mood? What would you say to that?”

“Here?” she gasped and quickly turned to look out the door.

He grabbed hold of her shoulders, lifting her slightly off the floor.

“Yes, here.” He brought their bodies together, claimed her lips and swept his tongue through her mouth, awakening her sexual hunger.

She felt wanted. She felt claimed. Images from the night before swam in her mind. Silly challenges from the office mean girl were all forgotten. He set her down and nipped at her lower lip.

“We have a lot to do today. Unfortunately we cannot go any further, now.” He stepped back behind his desk as casually as if he’d just greeted the mail man.

“But you would want to?” Still looking at the papers on his desk, she didn’t think he heard her. She took a step closer. “You would repeat last night?”

Her words stopped him. His gaze searched her face. Placing his hands on the desk he leaned forward and said, “Lydia, I fully intend to further explore your body and mind. After all, there are a few places I haven’t yet completely inspected.”

Her mind ran through what he had done to her last night, and there was only one place she could think of. Warmth fluttered through her face.

“Now, that is a beautiful sight.” He returned to his papers. “I’m going to have to keep thinking of ways to shock you simply to see you blush again.” With the papers properly sorted, his attention returned to her. “Is Gina a problem?”

Gina was a lot of things, but she’d never thought of her as a problem. “I don’t think so.”

“Don’t be afraid to put her in her place. She likes that more than she lets on. She’s the type to push so she can be pushed back.”

“I hadn’t thought of her that way. Interesting.”

“Let me know if she becomes a problem.” His gaze drilled into hers, not letting her escape.

“Okay.”

“Okay?” His posture remained controlled, but the smirk couldn’t be missed.

She added her own version of the devilish grin, which ignited another blush before she even spoke. “Okay, Sir.”

“Trouble.” He stalked towards her and ruthlessly swept his hand under the hem of her skirt to press firmly along her panties. His lips pressed to her ear. “Hot and damp.”

The palm of his hand pressed on her clit, and he bent his knuckles, sending the tips of his fingers past the edge of her panties to drag along her slit.

“Be careful what you say to me, sweetheart, or you’ll shatter my control.” With one last drag of his fingers, he pulled away and walked from the room.

She turned around and watched him go. Her heart pounded. All she could do was follow him, but she couldn’t move. The exchange with Jake left her bones unsettled, and the all too familiar ache tried to set-up shop in her chest. She hadn’t expected him to crave more from her, and now she couldn’t deny he did. Was she going to deny herself the pleasure of getting to know him?

TAKING CHANCES BUY LINK: 

Evernight Publishing: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/taking-chances-by-s-j-maylee/

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Taking-Chances-Love-Projects-ebook/dp/B00EPWDHP4

All Romance eBooks: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-takingchances-1269898-147.html

GIVEAWAY:

To celebrate my debut, I’m hosting a giveaway for a $10 Amazon Gift Card.

Click the link below to participate!

A Rafflecopter Giveaway

S.J. MAYLEE BIO:

S. J. Maylee fell in love with storytelling at a young age and with it came a deep-seated desire for everyone to find their happily ever after. She’s finding the happy endings for her characters one steamy story at a time.

When she’s not reading or writing, you can find her caring for her garden, laughing with her two young sons, or dancing to her husband’s music. She’s a PMP (Project Management Professional), Nia instructor, and coffee addict.

As a writer she has a tendency to break hearts, but she always glues them back together.

Blog: http://SJMaylee.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SJMaylee @SJMaylee

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/SJ-Maylee/339463696094996

Google+ https://plus.google.com/u/0/110475431453091174566/posts

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7224328.S_J_Maylee

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sjmaylee/

 

You may be wondering, S.J. your first manuscript is published, now what?

Through the last couple manuscripts I’ve seen a pattern emerge. Thank goodness, LOL. First, a scene comes to me in a flash. TAKING CHANCES started with one scene. I could see it easily. It wasn’t the opening scene though. It was the scene in the middle of the story. With the sequel to TAKING CHANCES, it was the opening scene that flashed first. It’s what happens next where you can see the pattern.

Every day, while I’m getting ready, doing the dishes …, I think about what led my characters to the one scene I have or what leads them out of it. This daily time with my characters is the perfect warm-up for when my butt gets in the seat. I encourage my muse further with plenty of coffee and good music. I’m also never far from my beat sheet. Don’t want the story wandering away from the target.

If I get stuck, I simply get up and do something else on the to-do list and think through the story. Then, settle back down with a fresh cup of coffee and a different play list and get back to work. As long as I keep coming back, the one light bulb moment will turn into a finished manuscript.

I’d love to hear from you guys. Have you found patterns in your day that work for you with your writing?

Thanks again for having me stop by! I look forward to seeing your feedback.

I Love Trouble!

I’ve always had a passion for romance novels. Historical, contemporary, paranormal. It wasn’t until the discovery of ereaders that I was introduced to what would quickly become my new favorite….erotic romance. One of my first favorite authors was this wonderful writer named Lissa Matthews! She had a way with words and strong, interesting characters with a love of spanking (receiving and giving). I was an instant fan. Then she wrote Trouble In The Making and made me feel like I was reading a book about one of my closest friends and one of my biggest fantasies.

 

Why am I telling you all this? Because it’s like Lissa crawled into my brain and dug out my fantasy man and put him on paper. But did she write me into the story? If only.

Imagine, this, if you will. You’re painfully shy. A writer and a teacher, but attention is not something that sits well on your shoulders. It takes a lot for you to trust someone to loosen up and gain your trust. You’re willing and able to go after what you want careerwise, but always seem to find yourself tongue tied in your personal life. Until one night, hanging out with your old friend (you know, the rock star), your fantasy just slips out.

One weekend of wild, uninhibited, unadulterated sex with a rock star. And not just any rock star. A rock star named Johnny Trouble who has been there, done that…and also happens to be that old friend. (Johnny Trouble? Perfect rock star name, Lissa.)

Here’s the truth about the painfully shy, unassuming type. Shy does not equal no imagination, no dreams and no fantasies. In fact, quite the opposite is true. In fact, many of my writer friends are living proof of this fact! So when I read Liz and Johnny’s story, I found myself nodding and thinking…”you go, girl!” Why shouldn’t the shy girl have her fantasy weekend with the guy?

Unfortunately, only hours into their “fantasy weekend” business calls…. Johnny’s songwriting skills are needed….across the country. It’s important for a musician at the end of his performing career to build the future he really wants for himself. He’s got to go.

But is Johnny Trouble going to leave Liz hanging? Is he going to take a raincheck? Or does he want more from Liz than just a weekend? What does Liz want?

I know the answers, but I’m not going to tell. Instead, I’m going to tell you that you need to buy Trouble In The Making and find out for yourself!

So What’s Under Your Kilt?

I’m a sucker for Highlanders. I admit it. In fact, Julie Garwood spoiled with characters like Alec Kinkaid and Ian Maitland. The Bride was probably my first ever “trashy” romance. So when my awesome blog buddy, Jessi Gage, came out with her first book entitled Wishing For A Highlander, I was stoked! There’s not a lot sexier than a man in a kilt….

Since I absolutely love Highlanders, I’ll kick this off by telling you a little bit about my favorite new Highlander, Darcy. He’s got a problem most modern day men would love to have. He’s young, handsome, in line to become the next laird of his clan…and he’s got an extremely large dirk. Unfortunately, a vengeful witch (well, okay…she’s really more of a bitch) convinced him that no woman would want him because he was too big. In this day of technology and internet, it sounds laughable, right? I mean, how often do we hear guys talking about the size of their daggers? If you’re female…and have spent any time on the internet…you hear it all too often. Unfortunately for him, windmills were about as advanced as their technology went, so he couldn’t exactly check with Google or WebMD. (Of course, then he might have been convinced that he had elephantitis or something even worse, but that’s a story for another day.) So here’s this hot warrior with a sexy Scottish brogue…and he’s a virgin. That ain’t right.

Fortunately, his answer comes to him from the future in the form of a museum worker named Melanie. As she prepares to head home, she sees this old artifact, a box with a mysterious past and mutters a wish for a sexy highlander. In my universe, the guy would magically appear in front of me. Thankfully, this book uses Jessi Gage’s imagination, because she transports Melanie back in time and lands her smack in the middle of a clan war and in need of rescue. Don’t get me wrong, this is a modern woman…she saves herself from the first skirmish, but being out of her time (and pregnant…did I forget to mention that?) has her a little out of sorts and needing a team assist. And in runs Darcy…literally.

For a few, that would be enough conflict to make the story interesting, but Jessi Gage is no average story teller. She takes it up a notch with action that keeps you on your toes and enough plot twists to make you feel like you’ve just hit the corkscrew on a roller coaster ride! The best part? The heroine is no wilting violet, but a strong, capable woman. And the hero? Whoa, baby! Hot, smart and brave…in a kilt! And a nice strong sword to sheathe in the right woman. Just the way I like ’em.

If you haven’t found your lifetime love(s) yet, this book will definitely have you wondering if maybe you’re just in the wrong century…and if you’ve got a Highlander waiting somewhere for you.

Have you read Jessi’s book yet? If not, what are you waiting for? She’s fantastic! If so, what did you think of Darcy and Melanie?

On a final note, it is incredibly hard to insert foreign accents, brogues and other languages into books and still sound utterly natural…and she does a stellar job! Jessi is an awesome writer with unlimited potential….and she’s a wonderful person, too. I strongly encourage you to check out her blog, follow her on Facebook or Twitter, or buy her book. You won’t regret it!

Talking Six Train To Wisconsin With Kourtney Heintz

As most of you know, I have a passion for books, writing and supporting authors. Today I get the opportunity to introduce you guys to a fellow blogging buddy and first time author. My friend, Kourtney Heintz, and I met through mutual blogging buddies and found a commonality in our love for the written word.

She has recently published her freshman novel, The Six Train To Wisconsin and has agreed to let me introduce her to you guys! She’s a wonderful lady, so I really hope you enjoy our interview as much as I did.

Me:

Kourtney, first I’d like to ask you a few questions about yourself so my followers can get to know the awesome lady you are!

Kourtney: 

Thanks, Kitt. I’d love that!

Me:

As a writer, if you’re like me, you’ve been a long time reader.

Kourtney:

Of course! Aren’t we all?

Me:

What is the first book you remember reading that had you saying “Wow! I want to do THAT!”?

Kourtney:

I think it was the Wizard of Oz series. I wrote my own fan fiction about Ozma in Oz as a kid. I wanted to be in the world Baum created, spending time with characters I adored.

Me:

Oooh! I loved the Wizard of Oz series as a kid. I think I was in 3rd grade when I discovered it! So what about outside the book universe? What do you like to do for fun? Hobbies?

Kourtney:

There are other things besides writing? Just kidding!

I do archery, belly dance, read, paint, cook, swim, and travel (as time and money permits). I’m a bit rusty on my Mandarin Chinese, but I spent over a decade learning to speak and write the language. I can also crochet and most of my friends and family have a scarf from me.

Me:

You wild woman! You belly dance? How cool is that? The writer version of Shakira right here, folks! 😉 And Mandarin isn’t exactly an easy language to learn! Those are some awesome hobbies. So you surprised me with the belly dancing. Any other things people would be surprised to learn about you?

Kourtney: 

I have a terrible time with right and left. If you are ever giving me directions, point in the direction instead of using the words and give me landmarks. That way I might actually get where I’m going.

Me:

Truth? Sometimes I have trouble, too. I feel for my writing callus on my right hand when I get confuzzled. 😉
So who’s been the biggest cheerleader in your camp? You know…the person that pushes you or encourages you when doubt decides to sit on your shoulder and whisper in your ear?

Kourtney:

My mom. She read early drafts and told me when they needed work, but she always believed I could get there. She let me move into her living room so I could write full time.

Me:

That’s awesome! Although my mom’s supportive, there’s no way in Hades I’d let her read my stuff. The content is not exactly conducive to parent/child sharing…especially when the parent is very religious. 🙂 Since we’re talking books, your book takes place in a small town in Wisconsin, the hero’s home town. Your characters prove that home towns can be complicated places to go back to… What’s your home town like?

Kourtney:

I think most places are pretty simple. It’s the relationships and the emotions that complicate everything. My hometown is a special place. Most of my family still resides here. I moved back a few years ago from New York. The biggest thing I noticed is the greenery. It’s everywhere. And people are friendly. I’m so used to being another face in a crowd it was kind of weird to have people recognize me and know me.

Me:

Pretty soon everyone in town’s going to know you as the cool author lady! It’s great that you were able to go back home after you left New York. There’s nothing like being around family when you start a new chapter of your life.
So your characters…Kai and Oliver. Tell me about them….

Kourtney:

I don’t believe love is a destination. I think it’s a journey we take with someone. And sometimes it’s messy and unpredictable. Oliver and Kai are two people who desperately need each other and want to save each other. But neither realizes they need to save themselves too.

Me:

I’d agree about love being a destination….it’s definitely an adventure or, as you put it, a journey. And it’s definitely got it’s fair share of complications along the way. Now your title is an unusual one. How did you come up with The Six Train To Wisconsin?

Kourtney:

It came to my while I was riding the subway in New York during the commute between my apartment and my office. I was staring at the subway map on the wall across from me. My eyes traced the route of the 6 Train from the Bronx to Manhattan. It passed 51 St where Oliver worked, hit Bleeker where they lived, and went down to City Hall where Kai worked.

The characters move from New York to Wisconsin. It is not an easy journey emotionally or physically for them. I thought about how the 6 Train doesn’t run to Wisconsin but for them it has to. I wanted the title to hint at the conflict of their journey.

Me: How cool is that? Obviously a lot of depth and thought went into the writing of your freshman effort. What do you hope your readers take away from Six Train?

Kourtney:

That we are all beautifully imperfect. People do bad things for good reasons. Does that mean they are bad? I think each of us had to answer that question for ourselves.

Me:

That’s a beautiful lesson, Kourtney, and an important one… So what about YOU? What lesson did your characters teach you on this journey?

Kourtney:

Relationships can be repaired. No matter how shattered trust or love seem, the crystals can be regrown.

Me: Wow. That’s lovely! Guys, isn’t this lady awesome? Kourtney would love some feedback and support from you guys. What did you guys think of her interview? Any questions of your own?

Here’s a little more sharing from our wonderful friend, Kourtney. Thanks again for spending time with us today!

The Six Train to Wisconsin Back Cover:

Sometimes saving the person you love can cost you everything.

There is one person that ties Oliver Richter to this world: his wife Kai. For Kai, Oliver is the keeper of her secrets.

When her telepathy spirals out of control and inundates her mind with the thoughts and emotions of everyone within a half-mile radius, the life they built together in Manhattan is threatened.

To save her, Oliver brings her to the hometown he abandoned—Butternut, Wisconsin—where the secrets of his past remain buried. But the past has a way of refusing to stay dead. Can Kai save Oliver before his secrets claim their future?

An emotionally powerful debut, The Six Train to Wisconsin pushes the bounds of love as it explores devotion, forgiveness and acceptance.

Author Bio:

Kourtney Heintz writes emotionally evocative speculative fiction that captures the deepest truths of being human. For her characters, love is a journey never a destination.

She resides in Connecticut with her warrior lapdog, Emerson, her supportive parents and three quirky golden retrievers. Years of working on Wall Street provided the perfect backdrop for her imagination to run amuck at night, imagining a world where out-of-control telepathy and buried secrets collide.

Her debut novel, The Six Train to Wisconsin, was a 2012 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Semifinalist.

Connecting with Kourtney

Website: http://kourtneyheintz.com

Blog: http://kourtneyheintz.wordpress.com

Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/kourtneyheintzwriter

Buy Links

Paperback available from:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Ebook available from:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Smashwords

Kobo

iTunes