'Seduced by Pain' by Kimberly Kinrade Book Tour Review

BLURB:

Their passion will destroy them.

Only true love can save them.

"Hope is a fragile thing, yet strangely enduring. It hides in the crevices of pain, burrowing deep until unseen, for fear that sorrow, in its rage, will devour hope's desperate hold on the heart.

It can live there for years, silent and waiting. Or, it can be slaughtered with a word-- mankind's most powerful weapon.

They say that universes are created with words.

And with words, they are destroyed.

Just as mine has been."

***

In the sequel to Seduced by Innocence, Derek and Rose face even greater threats to their love as Derek fights to protect the core of his family's power while Rose struggles to control her own dark gift.

***

Recommended for 17+ due to explicit sexual content. This is a new adult paranormal romance with erotic content and includes shifters, demons and witches. 

**Rose's story is a trilogy, not stand alone books. The first two books have cliffhanger endings. Her complete story in one book will be available as "Seduced" when the author finishes writing all three books and they are out. If you do not like cliffhanger endings, please consider waiting to purchase until Seduced the omnibus edition is out.**

Submit to the Seduced Saga as Derek and Rose face their future while unraveling the mysteries of their past.

Look for these books in the Seduced Saga coming 2013.

Seduced by Innocence (Rose's Story, Book 1)
Seduced by Pain (Rose's Story, Book 2)
March 2013- Seduced by Power (Rose's Story, Book 3)

TBA - Seduced by the Sea (Ocean's Story)

TBA- Seduced by Love (A Surprise!)

**My thoughts**

 Because this is the second book in the trilogy, I was better prepared for the steamy sex scenes that threw me off in the first installment. (Remember, I had just finished reading five of Kimberly's chapter books for kids! I knew that this series was supposed to be steamy. It was just culture shock for a moment!)

And WOW is all I can say about those scenes! I read 50 Shades of Gray in its entirety. That series has nothing on what Kimberly Kinrade offers in the Seduced series. Her scenes in this book are scorching hot AND there is actually a compelling story happening at the same time.

Rose is finally learning how to control her dark gift. Blake is no longer who we thought he was. Derek is trying to forgive Rose for what she did to his family. As the couple tries to salvage their relationship, they find their way to a familiar place that strives to help them and many others. A few favorite characters from The Forbidden Trilogy make an appearance, much to my delight!

New secrets are revealed, which rock their worlds and cause even more conflict. I actually exclaimed out loud at a few of the revelations! I guarantee you will get sucked in and then shriek when it suddenly ends! Lucky for us, the third installment releases this month!

Buy link: Amazon

BIO:

Kimberly Kinrade was born with ink in her veins and magic in her heart. She writes fantasy and paranormal stories for all ages and still believes in magic worlds. Check out her YA paranormal series The Forbidden Trilogy, her lower grade fantasy series The Three Lost Kids, and watch for her New Adult romance and fantasy books coming in 2013 including The Seduced Saga, Sunrise and Nightfall, Death by Destiny and The Fallen Trilogy and her next YA fantasy adventure, The Reluctant Familiar. You can find her books on Amazon, B&N and Goodreads among other fine retailers. 

 

When she's not writing, she runs Daring Books Design & Marketing with her husband, Dmytry Karpov, where they help authors with all manner of marketing, editing, and design needs until such a time that their brilliant children take over the business for them.

She lives with her three little girls who think they're ninja princesses with super powers, her two cats who think they're gods (and probably are), her two dogs who think they're humans and her husband, also known as the sexy Russian Prince, who is the love of her life and writing partner.

 

ONLINE LINKS:

Website  http://KimberlyKinrade.com 

Twitter: @KimberlyKinrade 

Facebook: /KimberlyKinrade 

Amazon: http://Amazon.com/author/kimberlykinrade 

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4687115.Kimberly_Kinrade 

 

'Cheers (Rose Gold Collection)' by Vallory Vance Book Blurb Blitz!

Title: Cheers

Series: The Rose Gold Collection

Author: Vallory Vance

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Sensual Romance, Interracial Romance

Publisher: Self- Published

Format: Ebook

Length: 7500 words

Book Description:

As a successful Sales and Catering Manager for the posh Hayden Court Hotel located in New Orleans’ famed French Quarter, Darcey St. Claire is absolutely thrilled to be working on New Year’s Eve. The commission and bonus, she’ll receive from the two day Guidry Construction event will not only fund her spring trip to New York City, but buy a cute pair of shoes for the plane ride!

Her enthusiasm quickly turns to barely disguised irritation when Vincent Guidry arrives hours early for his scheduled check-in demanding access to his suite. After he slashes the budget for the event, not even the crystal blue eyes of the former quarterback can quell the anger surging in her chest. That is until he walks into the Chat Noir where she is trying to regroup after her irksome day.

In the private enclave known as the Cristal Room, Vincent willingly lights up Darcey’s New Year’s Eve and just may have lost his heart in the process.

A sexy, short story introducing the characters of the upcoming Rose Gold Collection.

Buy Links: Amazon | Smashwords | B&N | ARe | Sony | KoBo |

GIVEAWAY INFO:
An Amazon Gift Card of $15.00, $10.00, or $5.00 PLUS each will include an eBook of Cheers. Ends 03/18/2013

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'The Guilty Innocent (Knights of the Darkness Chronicles Book 2)' by D.N. Simmons

Title: The Guilty Innocent
Series: The Knight of the Darkness Chronicles
Author: D.N. Simmons
Genre: Urban-fantasy
Sub-Genre: Paranormal Romance, Mystery, GLBT, Horror, Multicultural, humor, erotica
Publisher: Rushmore Publishing
Pairings: M/F,M/M,M/F/M – The series features straight, gay and bisexual characters. Sexual content is rated “Hot and Steamy”.
Other Ratings: Mature Audience, Graphic Language and Violence, Strong Sexual Situations and all sort of good things and naughty bits that make for great entertainment. Pages: 282
ISBN-13: 978-0615688381
Word Count: 104481

The Guilty Innocent is the second novel in the edgy, action-packed, sexually-charged, Knights of the Darkness Chronicles. In this installment, Darian, the gorgeous, charismatic and charming master vampire of Chicago is framed for a crime he didn't commit, but why? His lover, Xavier, Natasha and a few others must travel halfway across the world to find out who and why before time runs out and all hell breaks loose!

Original, sexy and gritty, the Knights of the Darkness Chronicles will suck you in and take you for a ride you won't forget!

Read an excerpt:

Darian casually looked down at the photograph then up toward the detectives. As I listened to the conversation, I could hear the detective identify the man in the picture. His name was Anthony Juliano. Apparently, he was the assistant day manager at Desires Unleashed before Annette took the position. Anthony had been found dead, his body burned. Only a partial skull and a few bone fragments were discovered amidst the ash. The only method in which he had been identified was through dental records. Darian said he didn’t know what had happened to Anthony Juliano. The detectives appeared to become frustrated, Darian was being so compliant, and he was completely relaxed as if he had not one worry in the world. The detectives then accused Darian of murdering Anthony as well as Annette. I would guess they were attempting to get a rise out of him, hoping he would accidentally give something away.

Those two are imbeciles,” Xavier growled. When I looked at him, his Lips were pressed tightly together, a frown on his face. He must be incensed ... and worried. Darian is his lover and master; his loyalty is to him. I have to admit, I didn’t enjoy seeing Darian in this situation either. I believed he was being framed by the same person who had killed Annette.

He didn’t do this!” Xavier said through clenched teeth. “Warren, when can he receive visitors? How long will he be here?” he asked, never taking his worried gaze from Darian.

Seven days, this would be day one. We have six days to find the truth, on the seventh day, he’ll have his trial.” Warren looked at Xavier and me. We don’t have time to waste. Tomorrow, Darian can have visitors, but not until then.”

Oh my God! This situation was getting worse with every passing minute! It was easily turning into one of the worst nights of my life. My heart was heavy with grief and my mind swam with thoughts of justice and revenge. I wanted to go home. I told Warren I wanted to leave and he agreed. As the three of us walked toward the door, Darian’s lawyer entered the interrogation room, declaring that his client had been more than agreeable and he need not answer any more questions. The two detectives looked at each other and nodded. They both left the room, leaving Darian alone with his lawyer. That was the last thing I saw as I exited the secret room, closing the door behind us.

Warren drove me home. “I can come up there with you to keep you company. You don’t have to go through this alone,” he said sympathetically. I forced a smile which I could tell didn’t fool Warren, not that I was trying to pretend otherwise. It was very thoughtful of him to offer. I was frightened; I couldn’t understand why someone would kill Annette. Could I be a target also? If I were, a little protection would be in my best interest. “Thank you, Warren. I would really appreciate that.”He smiled and nodded. I looked at Xavier, who was staring out of the window in deep thought. His elbow rested on the frame, his chin resting on his fingers.

Xavier? I asked. The sound of my voice seemed to bring him out of his thoughts. He looked at me, his eyes were as blank as if he was in a trance, and it unnerved me. I was used to seeing Xavier in better spirits. What are you thinking about?”

He took a deep breath then released it. “Darian.” His eyes panned over both Warren and me. “For the time being, he will stay calm and await his seven days but he will not let them kill him. Those two S.U.I.T. detectives aren’t interested in the truth. I watched them tonight; their only concern was the fact that they had “bagged” a master vampire,” Xavier said.

A seemingly untouchable one at that,” Warren added. He took my hand and gently squeezed it reassuringly. I was too caught up with what Xavier was saying.

Xavier continued revealing his thoughts. He shook his head gravely. “ He’ll go rogue. He will kill whoever stands in the way of his freedom. It will be a massacre.”

I must have gasped, because both men looked at me. I seemed to be the only one surprised by the idea of Darian killing innocent people to escape death.

Natasha, you must understand, Darian is a master vampire, centuries old. He will not be brought down by this. Going rogue is not something he would want to do. He has worked extremely hard establishing himself here in Chicago, especially after the Exposure, which is why he’s being compliant now. However, if push comes to shove, things will get ugly,” Xavier said as a matter-of-fact.

Buy links: Amazon \ Barnes & Noble \ All Romance eBooks

BIO:
D. N. Simmons lives in Chicago IL., with a rambunctious German Shepherd that's too big for his own good and mischievous kitten that she affectionately calls "Itty-bitty". Her hobbies include rollerblading, billiards, bowling, reading, watching television and going to the movies. She has been nominated at Love Romances and More, winning honorable mention for best paranormal book of 2006. She has won "Author of the Month" at Warrior of Words. She was voted "New Voice of Today" at Romance Reviews and "Rising Star" at Love Romance and More.

To learn more, and have the opportunity to speak with the author personally, please visit the official website and forum at www.dnsimmons.com . D.N. is always interesting in meeting new and wonderful people.

ONLINE LINKS:
Website: http://www.dnsimmons.com

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/dnsimmonsKOTD?feature=watch

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000552496587&ref=tn_tnmn

Blog: http://authordnsimmons.blogspot.com/?zx=824e0b32bd268e30

GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1396694.D_N_Simmons

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'Seduced by Innocence' by Kimberly Kinrade Review Tour

BLURB:
Seduction comes in many forms. 

"Liquid fire poured into me, filling me with the intimate sense of him as he leaned in to claim my lips with his own. I reached for him, needing him closer, but my arms couldn't close the distance between us, which grew wider with each hitched breath. So close to finally feeling something real, something carnal and deep, I cried out in frustration, dropping my hands as he disappeared. My cries deepened into a frenzy of panic and my eyes flew open. I clutched my blanket and stilled myself to calm my racing heart.

Just a dream. Always just a dream."

Rose Wintersong didn't have an ordinary upbringing. Raised in what most would call a hippy commune, but what is actually a powerful coven of witches, she never questions the life fate chose for her.

Until she meets Derek O'Conner.

Derek challenges everything Rose believes and forces her to see the secrets hidden beneath the whitewashed walls of her idyllic country life.

Rose knows she should walk away, that the sexy martial arts instructor is bad news bred to create discord in her tight community… but the animal magnetism between them is impossible to fight.

Caught between the passion of first love, and the steady beat of the life she's always known, Rose must choose between the innocence of her youth or the pleasures of womanhood—but lost innocence comes at a price, and Rose harbors a dark secret that could destroy everyone she loves—including Derek. 

Submit to the Seduced Saga as Derek and Rose face their future while unraveling the mysteries of their past.

Look for these books in 2013:

January -Seduced by Innocence
February -Seduced by Power
TBA-Seduced by Pleasure
TBA-Seduced by Pain
TBA-Seduced by Love(less)

**My thoughts**

I have been reading Kimberly Kinrade for almost a year now. She warned us that this New Adult series was going to be hot, but I wasn't quite expecting this! When I think of New Adult books, I am still thinking YA, but with older characters and more adult situations. I really didn't expect ADULT situations! It almost felt out of place at first, but I think that is because I have been reading mostly her chapter books for kids as of late.

Once I readjusted my thoughts on Kimberly writing explicit sex scenes in her book, I was okay with it. I actually really like this story and had been pulled in from the first chapter teaser that she gave us when she started writing the book. 

Derek and Rose are a modern day paranormal Romeo and Juliet. They are completely drawn to each other, physically, emotionally, mentally, and in a sense spiritually. They feel the completeness and very quickly fall in love. Only they don't realize that they are sworn enemies. The reader knows it from almost the very beginning, making you almost squirm with discomfort, knowing that their worlds are about to explode when they find out.

Their other unique problem is that they hardly dare to consummate their relationship, because Rose could literally kill him with her bare hands. She's afraid that he will hate her when he finds out. He is worried about revealing his true identity. But both of them think that the other one is "normal" and just won't understand what life is like having special powers. Apart of me was yelling in my head to just be honest with each other, already! Save yourselves the drama later on down the road! But for some reason, they just didn't listen to me...

This book is novella length, which makes it a quick and easy read. Chapters alternate with each character narrating from his or her point of view, and not just Derek and Rose. Their story is only just getting started and I can't wait to find out what else happens.  

BIO:

Kimberly Kinrade was born with ink in her veins and magic in her heart. She writes fantasy and paranormal stories for all ages and still believes in magic worlds. Check out her YA paranormal series The Forbidden Trilogy, her lower grade fantasy series The Three Lost Kids, and watch for her New Adult romance and fantasy books coming in 2013 including The Seduced Saga, Sunrise and Nightfall, Death by Destiny and The Fallen Trilogy and her next YA fantasy adventure, The Reluctant Familiar. You can find her books on Amazon, B&N and Goodreads among other fine retailers.

When she's not writing, she runs Daring Books Design & Marketing with her husband, Dmytry Karpov, where they help authors with all manner of marketing, editing, and design needs until such a time that their brilliant children take over the business for them.

She lives with her three little girls who think they're ninja princesses with super powers, her two cats who think they're gods (and probably are), her two dogs who think they're humans and her husband, also known as the sexy Russian Prince, who is the love of her life and writing partner.

ONLINE LINKS: Website  http://KimberlyKinrade.com
Twitter: @KimberlyKinrade
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KimberlyKinrade
Amazon: http://Amazon.com/author/kimberlykinrade
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4687115.Kimberly_Kinrade

'Deceived Part 3: Chloe's Revenge' by Eve Carter Read-Along

Deceived Part 3 Chloe's Revenge by Eve Carter

Genre: Erotic Romance

Publisher: Carter Publishing House (Self-Published)

Format: Ebook

Length: approx. 130 pages

Release Date: March 15^th 2013

Book Description:

The steamy Deceived romance trilogy by Eve Carter, in the bestselling tradition of Fifty Shades of Grey by E. L. James and The Blackstone Affair by Raine Miller.

When Chloe Swanson, an innocent mid-western college graduate, lands her dream job in New York City, she doesn't realize what kind of a ride she's in for.

It doesn't take long before her boss, the charming and sharp businessman Patrick Collins, deceives her into being part of his plan to land the biggest account of his life.

However, he never expected that he would fall for her. Suddenly, he finds himself trapped between a ruthless billionaire client, who has her own eyes set on Patrick, and his deep affection for the beautiful Chloe.

What follows is a sensual and passionate journey of self-discovery, as Chloe faces the harsh reality of jealousy, love and money in the big city.

Stimulating, amusing and highly arousing, Deceived is a romance that will excite and titillate your senses.

Read an exclusive excerpt:

Falling onto his glistening chest, I slumped over him and he wrapped both of his arms around me, the two of us panting, a few strands of my hair sticking to the sweat on his skin. Rolling to the side and into the crux of his arm, I snuggled up next to him pushing my hair out of my face, waiting for my breath to still as I remembered that Patrick was a cuddler.

He ran his free hand through his brown curly hair, exhaling to bring his breathing back to normal. “Chloe, you are so damn beautiful,” Patrick murmured. I wiggled my body closer to him, feeling totally satisfied and with an upturned face, peered up into his eyes.

”You know Chloe, I’ve traveled around the world and back again and I’ve never met anyone like you. I just want to wrap my arms around you and love you. You are amazing. When I see your face and that smile, I just want to kiss your lips all day.” He tucked his chin in and looked down at me to see the reaction to his words in my eyes. “I guess I’m selfish cause I love you, but you are my dream angel. I breathe for you and no one else but you.”

A little tear welled up in my eye, as I smiled up at him, any words I had, failed to rise over the growing lump in my throat and all I could do was nod. He traced a finger down my cheek and kissed me a sweet gentle kiss on the lips, and as I closed my eyes, a trail of tears trickled down my cheek. Using his thumb he rubbed the tear away and said, “Hey now, none of that. I hope those are tears of joy.” He laughed lightly.

Hugging him tightly, I laughed a little at myself for being so sappy and sentimental. “Oh, Patrick of course they are tears of joy. I love you too sweetie, with all my heart and I want to get to know everything about you, all of your likes and dislikes, so I can please you in every way.”

We both smiled and with my head buried in his chest, he rocked us back and forth, each of us reveling in the warmth of the moment.

Purchase Deceived Part 1 - New York: Amazon

Purchase Deceived Part 2 - Paris: Amazon

Follow the excerpt read-along tour for even more!
 

About the Author:

Eve Carter is a true romantic at heart and with a modern contemporary erotic twist to her romance novels, you had better fasten your seat belt, as the ride is always fun, exciting and fiery.

Living in Southern California, but a mid-westerner at origin, Eve finds plenty of inspiration for her books in her own exciting life. Eve has always loved the arts and as a young girl, she took dance classes and spent the summers reading books from the local library. Fascinated with the written word and its power to guide the imagination, Eve started writing short stories and later took Creative Writing classes in college. Eve graduated from The University of Iowa with a B.A. in Journalism and an M.A. in Higher Education. She also has a Teaching Credential from Chapman University in Southern California.

Website/Blog | Author Facebook | Series Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads |

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Read an excerpt from 'Eighty-Eight Keys' by Catherine Lavender

Title: Eighty-Eight Keys

Author: Catherine Lavender

Genre: Romance/Suspense

Leah is a young woman who is trying to break free from a strict religious background and pursue her dream as a pianist in the world of show business. While trying to find her independence her heart is held captive by Jason Rowe a local basketball star who established an organization to help troubled youth. When Jason is found murdered in his home, Leah is determined to get answers from a closed investigation. During her state of emotional turmoil, Leah finds comfort not only in the melody of her music, but in the arms of a married man named Calvin. With her dreams at her fingertips, Leah is tangled in a web of lies and deceit. Despite the fear of learning the truth, Leah has to realize that only the truth can set her free.

A dead lover, with a trail of broken hearts...
A married man, with a double-life...
A dream chaser, with a killer at her heels...
A piano, with eighty-eight keys...

Read an excerpt:

After tossing and turning all night with dreams of being chased by a shadow, Leah woke up with a determination to get some answers. The police didn’t seem to be taking Jason’s murder seriously, but someone should.

Throwing on her running shoes, the plan was simple. Go for a leisurely jog around Bright Horizons and sneak into the building to snoop around Jason’s office. She continued to roll the idea around in her mind as she jogged, preparing for unforeseen circumstances. After being dismissed by Mrs. Turner, Leah wanted answers, and this was as good a plan as any to get them.

What she did not count on was Coach Turner sitting on a bench in front of the Bright Horizons building. Slowing her gait, she debated running past him. Maybe he wouldn’t notice her.

The man’s eyes looked up as she approached and he smiled brightly. “Leah? Is that you?”

She nodded as her heart sank. “Hi, Mr. Turner. What are you doing out here?”

With a large shrug, the man looked forward, but didn’t seem to be registering what he was seeing. “I was just thinking about life and how incredibly unexpected it is.” He slid over a bit and patted the bench next to him. “Here, come, sit.”

Leah grudgingly obliged. She didn’t know the university coach well, but something about his demeanor indicated that he needed an ear.

“How are you feeling?”

Unconsciously rubbing the back of her head, Leah chuckled. “I’m doing fine, thank you.”

“Jason was an idiot for not marrying you. I told him that too.”

She blushed with embarrassment. “Well, thank you for the vote of confidence.”

“He was a stubborn man, that’s what made him a success,” the coach began. She could see him pulling inward. “Jason was the best ball player I coached, and likable.” He let out a whoosh of air. “He had a way of charming people into giving him what he wanted.” Coach gave Leah a wink. “Of course, I don’t need to tell you that now, do I?”

“No, sir,” she agreed slowly, wondering how to tactfully extract herself from the conversation.

“Out of everyone on the team, Jason was the most successful. Knew how to play his cards right. Not that you would understand the politics of university coaching, Leah, but Jason had a gift.” He gave her a sympathetic smile before continuing. “It is a big responsibility to coach, to carry the weight of a school’s reputation squarely on your shoulders. Not a lot of people understand that.” He patted her hand lightly. “You have to earn respect and trust. People have to love you, believe in you.”

Leah sat in the silence, unsure as to whether she should say something or not. “I can see that,” she finally offered.

He continued as if he hadn’t heard her. “Being married to the mayor’s sister does have its advantages, but my first responsibility is to my players. I found it best to ignore what everyone else told me to do and trust my gut.”

“That is always a good plan.” She spotted a family coming out of Bright Horizons. The boy looked familiar. With a small stomach flip, she realized it was Calvin’s little boy. He looked just like his daddy.

It had never occurred to Leah to ask Calvin about his past relationships. Was this the little boy’s mother? She watched the weary-looking woman referee the two children.

“Fine, I’ll settle this now,” the woman said with a chuckle. “No one will be watching TV until after dinner. Now Tyler, stop picking on your sister.”

That got Leah’s attention. Calvin had never mentioned a daughter before. Come to think of it, Calvin never really talked about his life.

“Mommy” The little girl stopped in the middle of the sidewalk. Her eyes were very serious. “Will Daddy be home for dinner tonight?”

Leah’s heart clenched with sadness for the little girl. She knew she should turn away, but could not bring herself to do it. Was Calvin still married? A slow, sick churn developed in her stomach.

Sadness crossed the mother’s face, but was quickly replaced by resignation. “I couldn’t tell you, Sweet Pea.” She cupped her daughter’s chin. “We’ll just wait and see, okay?”

She watched the little family climb into their car, get safely buckled in, and drive away, all while her mind was trying to conjure up every conversation she had with Calvin. Was there something she had missed? Some important piece of the puzzle to indicate he was still married? The buzzing noise in her ear began to form words and Leah realized that Coach Turner was still talking to her.

“It is time to pass the torch on to someone else,” he said without realizing he had lost his audience. “To someone who will teach the fundamentals, but also inspire the love and passion for the game. Even after Jason graduated, he still held onto his passion. That is what I am looking for in my predecessor.”

“Your what?” Leah finally caught up with the conversation.

“My predecessor, I’m retiring.” He nodded sadly. “It’s being announced at the gala.”

* * *

Binoculars were slowly lowered, with a soft tsk. “Leah, what are you doing here?” the voice whispered. A slight frown crossed the face of the onlooker. Leah was going to be tricky. Why was she over on this side of town? She had been dismissed. There was no need for her to be here, unless…

Raising the binoculars, the observer noted the jogging shoes and running attire worn by Leah. “Ah,” said the voice, “clever ruse.” But thoughts swirled to the papers Leah almost found. The papers were safely tucked away, never to see the light of day.

“Just leave it be, Leah,” the voice whispered. “Or else you will find yourself buried next to your precious Jason.”

Buy link: http://amzn.to/VUuzZe

Author Bio:

Catherine Lavender is from Baltimore, Maryland but now resides in Tampa, Florida with her miniature schnauzer name Ripken. She is an animal activist, as well as a supporter of the organization First Book which helps supply literature for underprivileged children. In her spare time, Catherine enjoys reading classic literature and playing the acoustic guitar.

Website: www.catherinelavender.com

'Stetson's Storm (The Lasso Springs Series Book 3)' by Kathleen Ball

Stetson's Storm (Lasso Springs #3)

by Kathleen Ball

Genre(s): Contemporary Romance, Western Romance, Romantic Suspense

Publisher: Dessert Breeze

Release Date: February 21, 2012

Heat Level: Steamy

Word Count: 64,000

Blurb

Hunky, Rodeo Star, Stetson Scott is back in town after a 5 year absence. Storm McCrory has what he unknowingly left, his son.

Warning: This title is intended for readers over the age of 18 as it contains adult sexual situations and/or adult language which may be considered offensive to some readers.

Excerpt

The bells above the diner door rang eerily in the still of the night. Storm startled then whirled around. It'd been quiet all night; the graveyard shift usually was. The money wasn't the greatest, but somehow she managed. Her eyes widened and her heart raced faster. It couldn't be, but it was. Stetson had returned.

He noticed her. Storm saw no sign of recognition in his eyes. Maybe it was a good thing. She knew she looked drawn and tired. The circles under her eyes never seemed to disappear anymore, her hair no longer shone, and she was rail thin.

His lack of recognition cut deep. The pain in her heart overwhelmed her. He didn't remember her, but she hadn't forgotten him for one day during his five-year absence. Grabbing the glass coffee pot, she quickly walked over to where he sat at the counter. "Coffee?"

"Sure, honey," Stetson replied, looking over his shoulder at a group of new customers.

Disappointment filled her being as she poured the hot liquid into his mug. "Anything else?"

"Uh, no."

Storm nodded, put the pot down, and walked into the kitchen to regroup. He unnerved her.

"She's not the one for you." Storm heard one customer comment.

"I'm not interested," Stetson's familiar voice responded.

"Good thing. She's got a bit of a reputation." The busybody female's voice sounded sultry, as though she wanted Stetson for herself.

Tears welled up in Storm's eyes waiting for his reply. All she heard was the ringing of the bells. She hoped she hadn't been stiffed again. Last time it had come out of her pocket. She walked back behind the counter. Stetson had left. He was always leaving.

Storm had finally and firmly written him off, but her heart didn't agree. Thankfully, she had a strong mind. No man would ever play her for a fool again. Stetson had cost her everything, her home, her family. Most of the members of the town wouldn't talk to her.

If it hadn't been for Nellie, Stetson's sister, she wouldn't have survived the last five years. She had to admit he looked damn good in his jeans, boots, and blue chambray shirt. Blue always brought out his striking, sky blue eyes. He had a few more lines on his face, his handsome, tanned, chiseled face. His thick blond hair curled out of control, and she had to stop herself from remembering how it felt to run her fingers through it.

He'd filled out. He had a man's body now, with big shoulders and a slender waist. He probably had his share of women over the last five years. The thought crushed her. She'd been left to suffer and he'd gone on to fame.

It still stung that Stetson never even said goodbye. He just up and left town one day. Storm had waited and waited to no avail. Finally, she had to tell her daddy she was pregnant.

 Buy on Amazon \ Barnes & Noble

About the Author

Kathleen Ball has been writing a little over three years. She has four published novels: The Lasso Springs Series--Callie’s Heart and Lone Star Joy are available now. Stetson’s Storm will be available in Feb 2013 all from Desert Breeze Publishing. She also has the Dawson Ranch Series from Secret Cravings Publishing. Those titles are Texas Haven and Ryelee’s Cowboy.

Kathleen lives in Texas and loves the fact that she can drive out of her subdivision and see cattle. She is a native New Yorker from Rochester, New York.

Kathleen is married and has one son who is a Marine. She started writing when she realized that she was facing an empty nest. Always an avid reader, she writes what she likes, Contemporary Western Romance.

Visit her at her website at www.kathleenballromance.com.

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