The lovely and talented, Helen Hardt

Please welcome Helen Hardt as she talks about her latest release.

CB: It's been some time since you've been on my blog, Helen... tell us, is there anything new and exciting in your life right now?

HH: Thanks for having me, Catherine! New and exciting? It's been a rather slow year for me writing-wise. After seven releases in 2009, I needed a break! I did have several releases in February/March of this year (Loving Eve [EC] and Lessons of the Heart and Rhythm of the Drum [TWRP]), and one in July (Primal Instinct [TWRP]).

CB: Any future books we should be looking for in the near future?

HH: Calendar Boy is coming to Aspen Mountain Press soon, though I don't have an exact date yet. But edits are done and I have my cover (featuring Jimmy Thomas!) so it should be pretty soon. Like my other AMP story, The Cowboy and the Cougar, this one is part of The Cougar Club series.

I have a werewolf story in the works for my EC editor, and I also have a few shorts in the works that I'm going to submit to Harlequin.

CB: Tell us about your new release:

HH: Pianist Envy originated as a submission for EC's music theme (due out in November) but my editor decided it would be better as a stand alone release. I'm big on sensory detail, so I love incorporating the arts into my stories. Rock music and classical music play central roles in this story and the theme recurs throughout. I hope readers enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it!

Blurb:

Huge success has so far eluded musician Jane Rock. Coming from a modest background, she’s had to work hard for everything she has. When a music agent attends one of her rock band’s performances at a local club, she thinks her big break has finally come, until an inebriated—though handsome and muscular—patron spoils her show.

Classical pianist Chandler Hamilton has had most of his success handed to him due to his family name. He has his reasons for detesting rock music, but he finds himself drawn to beautiful and talented Jane. Although the two sizzle between the sheets, outside the bedroom they bicker endlessly and envy what they perceive as the other’s good fortune. When Jane needs a favor, Chandler resists. Can love blossom amid clashing notes and tempos?

Excerpt:

She didn’t bother knocking. He wouldn’t hear her anyway. Normally she wasn’t so rude, but the music called to her. His anger, his passion, called to her. Still holding the pot, she stood, mouth agape, as Chandler pounded out disharmonic chords on his nine-foot black lacquer grand.

Disharmonic, yes, but they made a certain musical sense. Discordant in a harmonic way. Sweat covered his brow and a drop hit an ivory key. He didn’t stop to wipe away the perspiration. He punished the keys, ground out eerie yet beautiful music in his raw madness. His fingers danced, his facial muscles tensed, his full pink lips pursed. Another drop of sweat hit a key as he slowed the tempo, softened his strokes, then from piano to forte again as he trilled two notes and boomed through the lower keys.

Jane’s heart thudded in time with Chandler ’s now increasing tempo. As he crescendoed, so did she, her breath coming in rapid puffs, her breasts heaving against her chest. His playing conjured images in her mind of a bullfighter twirling a red cape. Vivid reds and oranges swirled through her head.

More chords. Louder, faster…banging, clashing…

Then silence.

His eyes closed and his chest dropped, as though he were only now cognizant of the fact that he required breath. More drips of moisture emerged on his corded neck and rivered down his chest through the few blond hairs that peeked out of his black button down. The stark onyx contrasted against his fair skin in a beautiful way. Jane’s breath caught.

She stood, still holding the empty coffee pot. Should she applaud? Her hands were occupied, and applause seemed inappropriate anyway. This hadn’t been a performance. No, this had been a catharsis, a purging of negativity, a ritual cleansing.

This had been solely about Chandler . Pure, raw emotion not meant for an audience.

Regret flooded her. She shouldn’t be here.

Kilt-A-Licious - Excerpt and Blurb

Kilt-A-Licious by Catherine Bybee
Ménage/Time Travel/Erotic Romance
Coming Soon From Cobblestone Press

Blurb:

Time traveling Highlander, Chase Donnach, would like nothing better than to enjoy his last days in the twenty-first century in the arms of the feisty, redhead Sheri Lansing. When their mutual sexual pleasure develops into much bigger emotions of love and forever Chase has to convince Sheri that he’s the Highlander for her.

All of Sheri’s life the people she grows to love leave her. When Chase slips into her heart, she reflexively pushes him away. Can Chase really love her as much as he says, or are the destined to only be lovers lost in time?


Excerpt:


“What if…what if I brought Jason here for a one night stand?” Lord, that was lame.

Chase’s eyes grew big, but then softened. “But ye didn’t.”

“But what if I did? I mean, what if I’m not ready to settle down with one guy?”

Suddenly, all the worry etched into Chase’s face drifted away, like he knew something scandalous that no one else could possibly know.

“Well, then, perhaps ye need to get Jason out of yer system.”

“Maybe I will.” Yet, all of a sudden, Sheri felt like she was being played. Like Chase held all the cards, and she was the pot in the middle of the table growing bigger by the second.

“Then I’ll wait.” He crossed his arms over his chest and leaned against the wall.

Sheri felt the room closing in. She’d lost control of this conversation, and she didn’t like it. Not one bit.

“Or maybe I’ll want two men?”

Chase pulled up one edge of his mouth in a half smile. “At the same time, lass?”

She swallowed. He was calling her bluff. Anxiety brought her heart rate to a gallop and goose bumps racing up her arms. “Maybe.”

Slow and steady, Chase lowered his hands and advanced.

Sheri slid toward the wall.

“There are two men with ye now, love. Perhaps we can purge ye of these desires.”

She gulped, a big fat audible gulp that Jason had to of heard in the other room. “Maybe.”

Chase placed one strong hand on the wall by her head and dipped closer, his lips mere inches from hers. “There is only one thing, love.”

“Yes,” she said on a breath.

“If I do this for ye, be prepared to do anything I ask in return.”

Oh, God. She was officially screwed. What would he ask?

For a moment, neither of them moved, blinked or breathed. Then a voice from the living room rang out.

“So, am I joining this party or should I go?”

Should she? Could she?

Chase was calling her bluff, or hand or whatever metaphor worked. Or maybe he was pushing her further. Perhaps he’d back off the minute she let Jason touch her. Remembering his insane jealousy at the bar, Sheri puffed her chest out, grazing his.

“Do you have condoms, Jason?”

The smile didn’t leave Chase’s face, but one eyebrow rose high.

He’ll fold.

“Never leave home without them.”

One second passed, then two. Chase said nothing. His stare never wavered.

Sheri had one more hand to play. She lifted her lips to his ear so only he could hear. “Be warned, Jason enjoys men and women in his bed.” With those little words, Sheri stepped out of Chase’s arms and walked over to Jason who now stood blocking the hallway.

The devilish smile on Jason’s face bordered on comical. Sheri wasn’t laughing, and she wasn’t going to pause and let Chase know she had second thoughts about what they were embarking upon. She stepped into Jason’s personal space, tilted her head to the side, and kissed him fully on the mouth. There was no exploration, no slow mingling of taste. There was hardly any time to compare notes before she felt Jason’s hand reach out and spread over her ass.


Start the journey through Chase’s world with Kilt Worthy – Available Now From The Wilder Rose Press –

http://www.thewildrosepress.com/wilderroses/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=175&products_id=717&zenid=88fb76d5103b14fe6d9a92ffec1ff062

Midnight Treat by Becca Simone

Midnight Treat by Becca Simone

There are debuts and then there are debuts…. Ms. Simone has a wonderful fantasy rush to HEA in Midnight Treat. Zorro… Meet… Marie…

Josh knows exactly how to get what he wants at a costume party – After a brief encounter with Marie Antoinette, Josh, Zorro, climbs a fire escape and smack dab into his future. He fulfills a fantasy of Miss. Marie only to find he’s with the wrong woman… Or is he?

Ms. Simone… I do hope you write quickly, my friend… This was a difficult to put down until I was finished with then entire story. I connected with your characters from the first page. This wasn’t erotic romance… it was HOT romance. Really hot, wet, ROMANCE.

Download your copy today: Click HERE.

Review of First Date by Lynne Roberts

Unrequited love, er, lust… is very powerful. Real estate agent, Jill Daniels remembers many things about Bret Jacobs, especially the fantasies evoked after walking in on him and his high school lover all those years ago. Armed with stiletto heals and an adult appetite, Jill is determined not to let Bret slip through pages of her life again.

Ms. Roberts reminds us of our young loves and wistful fantasies from our youth with First Date. First Date is tastefully erotic with racing hot love scenes that will keep you turning pages.

Available at The Wilder Rose Press - or click HERE

Where am I?

I'm not sure where I am... lol! Last night was a Halloween Party with the Cub Scouts. Some of you know that I wear the God-Awful Scout Uniform as a Cub Master... so I was really busy. On top of that, my 10 year old came home with a goldfish.

What in the hell am I gonna do with a goldfish? I thought the thing would be dead by morning. Now I need to go get the thing food. *banging head on desk*

Oh well... I have something to keep my mind off the fish dilemma.

I'm over at Lia's blog today with a new excerpt of Kilt Worthy. So stop on over and take a look.
Click HERE!

Debut Author Lynne Roberts

Oh boy do I have a treat for you today... Lynne Roberts is celebrating her debut release, First Date, this week. I've asked her to come on over and chat a little about her debut erotic Rosette and a few fun questions I like to ask all who come this way.

Welcome, Lynne. Thanks for stopping by.

Tell us about your new book out now:

Most of my stories begin with an image, a situation or even a feeling. The idea for FIRST DATE came to me when I was sixteen. And no, I’m not telling you how many years ago that is. ; ) I pictured a man and a woman running through the rain and taking shelter in a barn. I extrapolated from there. Here is a blurb and an excerpt:

Blurb: The Real Estate market is about to heat up.

When Brett Jacob walks into Jill’s real estate office, she attempts to maintain a professional demeanor, but memories of accidental voyeurism in high school, years of what-if’s, and Bret’s drop-dead sexy grin only serve to ignite her fantasies.

Bret needs a farm for his growing landscape business. When he sees Jill Daniels’ picture in a real estate ad, he can’t believe his eyes: The shy girl from high school has blossomed into a desirable woman. Ten years ago, she didn’t stir his blood and drive away all rational thought; now, he’s fighting the urge to take her in his arms long enough to ask her on a first date.

I just love stories of 'lost wannabe loves'! I've been looking forward to this since I first read your blurb. Do you have an excerpt for us?

Excerpt:

Tiffany lowered her voice to a breathy growl, “Is he about six-foot, dark blond hair and...” She sucked air through her teeth, “has a wicked, sexy grin?”

That sounded about right. “Yes.” A flush of heat spread over her body, warming her skin and tightening her nipples into small aching nubs.

“He’s here and, darlin’, that one is yummy. If you don’t go for it, I will.”

Jill shot Tiffany the dirtiest look she could manage. “This is a real estate office, not a bar.”
Her friend only laughed. “All the better. Well, go on. He looks like he might have just what you need.”

Oh, God, I know he does. Jill stood and smoothed down her skirt, thanking God for Victoria’s Secret and lined bras, then stepped out from behind the partition.

Bret stood inside the door, and she drank him in. His white button-down shirt opened at the neck, accentuating his square jaw and doing nothing to disguise his well-muscled chest. Faded denim wrapped long powerful legs, and she forced her gaze not to linger on the pronounced bulge between them, her mouth filling with saliva at the thought of what lie beneath the denim like a present waiting to be unwrapped. He was tall, muscular and comfortable in his own skin. She’d bet he’d never had an awkward moment in his life. If anything, he looked better than he had in high school.

She blinked, breaking the spell and walked forward, extending her hand. “Good morning.” Her voice quivered a little. “I’m Jill Daniels.”

His hand enfolded hers, his fingers warm and slightly calloused. The contact pebbled her skin, sending shivers rippling over her body.

“I remember you.”

Deep and seductive, his voice caressed her body like a physical touch, sending a jolt of pure need straight to her core. He remembers me? Bret released her hand and Jill rubbed a thumb over her now-tingling palm, her skin awake and yearning for those roughened hands to touch more.
Bret’s brilliant gray-blue eyes were now creased at the corners and golden highlights lightened his sandy brown hair as though he spent a lot of time outdoors. The slow, sexy smile hadn’t changed. If anything, it had gained potency.

“I’m Bret Jacobs,” he added.

She reminded herself to smile. “I remember you, too.”

“Well, good, I was afraid...” He left the thought unfinished.

Did he honestly think anyone would forget him? And was that a blush? Did he remember the party too? He couldn’t. The image of Bret she occasionally used for her late-night showers filled her mind and a shockwave of desire stole her breath. Oh, God, she should have brought a change of underwear.

Bret smiled and Jill’s heart dropped into her stomach.

“So, are you ready?” he asked.

More than you’ll ever know. “Yes.”

Oh, baby! Love it!

So, tell me, Lynne, how do you respond when someone says... "Oh, you write THAT kind of book?"

LOL. Something like that happened for the first time today. I told a friend of the family that I wrote erotica romance. His eyes widened but he didn’t say anything. I just smiled.

LOL. Leave 'em speechless! Good for you!

What are your goals as a writer?

I’d love for someone to tell me that one of my books had a positive effect on his or her life; even if that was thirty minutes of escapism. LOL Maybe that would be my dream, not my goal. My goal? To publish, and publish again, and again. Yeah, I’d like to give Nora Roberts a run for her money… but now we’re back in dreamland again.

I'm with ya there, sister! Move over Nora. Actually I'd be happy with 1/10 of her success. And if you don't dream big about yourself how will you ever convince publishers to dream big with you? As for the bit about positive feedback? Chances are you'll achieve that goal before the month is out! I've heard nothing but praise from a certain editor we both know. :-)

How many books do you read a month?

It varies. This month, I’ve been reading the Black Dagger Brotherhood books and I’ve finished three of them, two novellas, three or four shorts and two books by Nora Roberts. Wow that is a lot when you write it all down.

Do you have anything new in the works?

Yes! The Wilder Rose Press will be releasing another short, AFTER HOURS, soon. I will keep you posted. I’m also working on a currently untitled story that I hope to have done before Thanksgiving.

See, told you you'd achieve your goals. Already contracted for book #2 and working on #3!

Where can we find you?

Usually at my computer. Just kidding. You can find me here at my website: http://lynneroberts.blogspot.com/

Blog:

http://lynneroberts.blogspot.com/

or on Divas!

http://forums.romancedivas.com/

Where can we find your books?

http://www.thewildrosepress.com/wilderroses/

Thank you so much for having me on your blog, Catherine. I really enjoyed it.

You're welcome, and best of luck with all your books. I'm sure we'll be seeing you in the top ten by weeks end!

I could use your vote!

It's that time again... time to vote for best book of the week at LASR's Whipped Cream.

Kilt Worthy is up for best book.

So please take a minute out of your day and click on over to the Whipped Cream site by clicking HERE, and read the reviews and place your vote.

XXX and OOO

Chatting with Lia Slater

Welcome Lia Slater.

Thanks for having me, Catherine!

Tell us about your new book out now:

Fatal Exposure is an erotic romantic suspense available in eBook and paperback from www.wilderroses.com.

Blurb:

Deception brings them together. Exposure can tear them apart.Taking off her clothes every night for the patrons of Hothouse Gentleman’s Club was never part of Ava Lureau's life plan, but the sleazy strip joint was the last place her powerful ex-boyfriend would think to look for her. A life on the run kept Ava safe…but lonely. So when a ruggedly sexy stranger shows up and a lap dance becomes more than another dollar in her G-string, she takes a chance.

Kade Gavin’s job is simple—capture his target and deliver her to the man who hired him. Nothing but a paycheck matters in Kade's bleak existence…until the enticing stripper with soft curves and a puzzling persona climbs into his bed--and under his skin.

Oh, yum. this sounds like my kind of book. Tell me, how do you respond when someone says... "Oh, you write THAT kind of book?"

Hmm… I can’t remember if anyone’s actually said those exact words to me. But I’ve gotten confused stares. I’ve gotten corny jokes. One person accused me of writing porn. These are always the people who know nothing about the romance genre. The people who do read and appreciate a good, hot story (with a plot!) are very accepting and happy for me.

Sometimes when a romance reader starts to write, they forget to pick up a book and read it. How many books do you read a month?

I read anywhere from 2-10 books a month, depending on my schedule that month. It’s important to keep reading and enjoying the genre. I love reading and I miss it when I can’t find the time.

Do you have anything new in the works?

Yes! I just received a contract from Ellora’s Cave for my erotic paranormal romance, WereSlave. I like to think of it as an erotic fairy tale with werewolves, humans, witches and vampires. It’s set in an imaginary far away land called Paqualette. I could go on and on about this story and the second book in the series that I’m writing right now titled Were Seduction…but I’ll spare you until it actually comes out. LOL

I guess that means I need to get you back here so we can hear mour about your Were's. LOL

Where can we find you?

Lots of places!
www.liaslater.com
www.liaslater.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/liaslater
www.twitter.com/liaslater

Where can we find your books?

Fatal Exposure is available now from www.wilderroses.com
Buy link: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/wilderroses/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=728

Thanks for stopping by Lia. Now boys and girls, be sure and leave a comment or question because Lia is going to be giving away a pdf copy of her book to one lucky participant. So NO LURKING! LOL

Helen Hardt Talking About Montego Lay

Welcome back, Helen.
It seems every time I turn on my computer I find a new Helen Hardt's title being released. Congrats. Your newest erotic, Montego Lay, sound yummy! Tell me, did you come up with your plot while basking on the beach in Jamaica?


First of all, thanks for having me again, Catherine! It's always fun to visit you.

Yes, as a matter of fact ;). Last December, my husband and I took a vacation to an adult resort in Runaway Bay, Jamaica called Hedonism III. It was a pretty interesting place, complete with a nude beach. The whole time we were there, I kept thinking what a great location it would be for a Destination Pleasure story, so I created Pleasure Cove Nude Resort in Montego Bay which is an even less inhibited place than Hedo! While the story is purely fiction, I did base some of the people and events on my experience at Hedo. And I did meet a resort worker named Ace, though he doesn't look anything like my Ace. I just liked the name.

What do you admire most in your hero, Ace?

Ace is a basic soul. Many of my previous works feature heroes who are a little tortured (and I'll admit I'm a sucker for that type), but Ace isn't one of them. He's an all around good guy who loves the sun, the surf, and gorgeous women. And I think that's what I love most about him. A character doesn't have to have a lot of baggage to be interesting, and Ace is definitely interesting ;).

The real men in erotic romance authors lives always fascinate me. Tell me, what does your hubby tell his friends about your writing?

Oh, great question! First, my husband is wonderful. We're coming up on twenty years of marriage in November (and incidentally, we're going back to Hedo to celebrate), and I couldn't be happier. He loves that I read and write erotic romance because he gets the fringe benefits ;). He calls it an "occupational hazard" when my writing puts me in the mood, LOL. He's not at all embarrassed by what I do and is very proud of me. He's a keeper!

If there was one thing about the publishing industry that you would change, what would it be?

No one would ever get another rejection letter ;). I suppose that's too much to ask for, LOL. I guess I'd say the whole "hurry up and wait" issue. Seems we sit around a lot waiting for responses to our queries and subs, then we sit around waiting for our release date. It would be nice if the process went a little faster.

I know you're an editor as well as an author, can you tell us a little about your day job? What do you love about it, what frustrates you the most?

I started freelance editing a couple years ago. I'm a grammar Nazi, and I figured I could put my sickness to good use, LOL. I edit for two small presses and for private clients. What do I love about it? Helping authors make their work the best it can be. What frustrates me the most? My biggest pet peeve is head hopping.

Lets finish this interview with a blurb and excerpt of Ace and Lisa's story, Montego Lay.

Blurb:
Vacationing at a Montego Bay nude resort, Lisa Brooks finds herself volunteering in a bondage demonstration on the beach. She’d like to continue the instructions with the Jamaican native, but the gorgeous resort employee has other duties to perform. Though disappointed, Lisa accompanies a friend to an erotic casino night where the chips are free and redeemable for sex. A night for a mysterious encounter? If only she could buy the island hottie she really wants.

Excerpt (R rated for language):

Excerpt (Rated R):

“You’re beautiful, sweet,” he said, gazing into her eyes. “Beautiful, and ready for me to do whatever I please.” He winked, and then nodded to his audience. “Here she is, ladies and gentleman, at my pleasure, her legs spread, her wrists bound. She can’t touch me, but I can touch her.” He cleared his throat. “You can add to your submissive’s sensory perception by blindfolding her. Silk works well for this. The coolness of it against the face is pleasant for the submissive.”

Lisa closed her eyes, anticipating the gossamer softness against her cheeks. Her nipples tightened into hard buds, and moisture dripped from her pussy. If he fucked her right here, right now, outside in broad daylight in front of all these people, she wouldn’t stop him.

The thought frightened her.

Still, her pussy wept, and ripples of heat washed over her body. Her nipples stood straight, yearning for a tongue to lick them, lips to suck them. Firm, full lips.

“That’s about all the time for today’s demonstration.” Ace’s voice cut into her fantasy. “Thanks for coming. Tomorrow’s demonstration will be toga tying, to get you all ready for the Greek party tomorrow evening. Tonight is Casino Night. And I know those of you with Soleil Erotique have a special evening planned.”

Strangely disappointed that he hadn’t blindfolded her with silk, Lisa waited as the others left. Within a few minutes, she was alone with Ace. And still bound to the bed.

He sat down next to her and untied her wrists. “I hope I didn’t embarrass you too much, sweet. You were a good sport.”

“Oh, no. I’m fine.” Lisa rubbed her wrists, but they weren’t sore at all. It just seemed the thing to do.

“You made a pretty model for my demonstration.” He unhitched the rope from the bedpost and coiled it.

Lisa lay still, her ankles still bound. She didn’t dare speak, for fear that if she opened her mouth, she’d scream “fuck me!”

Ace reached for her first ankle cuff and unfastened it. Though she was naked and at his mercy, he was careful not to touch her inappropriately.

Damn him.


Thanks again for having me, Catherine!

Thanks for joining me today, Helen. I've swapped blogs with Helen today so for my latest video blog about the things an author can do while waiting for their editor or publisher to get back to you, stop on over Helen's Heroes.

Win a FREE copy of Kilt Worthy

Fellow WRP author Emma Lai is interviewing me on her blog...

Stop on over and leave a comment and enter a chance to win a free copy of by #1 bestselling erotic story, Kilt Worthy.

What are ye waiting for, lass. Go.... go now!

Oh, ye need a link? Okay... HERE - Emma's Blog

Interview with Eliza March

Today I'm interviewing fellow Scarlet Author and friend, Eliza March. So sit back, wet your lips, and sink your eyes into this yummy new erotic book.

BLURB :

Ailsa Jackson is finished dating executives. She’s looking for hot sexual fantasies—“all muscle, stamina and no commitment.” When assigned to interview an American CEO, Colin Fitzgerald, who recently inherited lands and a title in Scotland, she tosses her inhibitions aside to research all the old myths about brawny Highlanders and answer the old burning question—what is under a Scotsman’s kilt?

Exclusive Excerpt for Catherine’s BLOG:

“So ye don’t mind a man in a skirt, hey?”

The expression on his face turned predatory as he moved into her personal space. She felt like Little Red Riding Hood had come upon the very big, very bad Wolf, and she so wanted him to eat her. As far as she was concerned, he could have her all he wanted. The silence between them was charged with sexual tension.

“You look...ah, great.” Ailsa’s gaze took him in again. She’d have to settle for great. Any other term would just be insufficient. Yet great almost seemed an inadequate description under the circumstances.

Vocalizing her true feelings—terrific, yummy, fantastic—might be a tip off about her fascination with him and his kilt. She decided to hold it there. Anything other than great would be over the top. No sense scaring the hell out of the first man she encountered in Scotland.

She certainly couldn’t ask the question she longed to ask or lift his kilt and satisfy her curiosity.

He frowned and tilted his chin to one side, puzzled by her perusal.

She tried to explain. “Don’t get me wrong. I was surprised to see the native dress. You know...the kilt and all. Sorry, I’m babbling. I didn’t know kilts were daily attire.”

“Do ye have something against kilts, then?”

“Oh, no! Absolutely nothing. I actually have a certain proclivity for men in kilts.”
The only thing she wanted against his kilt was her body. From the rising action going on under the sporran, she imagined he’d meet her sexual requirements, and then some. How well would he fill her? Her inner muscles clenched at the mental image.

His eyes narrowed and his nostrils flared. “Do you, now?” Colin suppressed the smile on his lips, but it crept into his eyes.

She played with fire, boldly flirting with him, “Yes, I do.” She lifted her chin defiantly and let her smile say try me.

His eyebrows twitched as he shifted, brushing his body against hers. Ailsa didn’t back up. Instead, she stood her ground against the car and looked straight up at him, batted her lashes, and ran her tongue across her lower lip, daring him.

He looked surprised, maybe even pleased with the challenge. She risked the question. “Is it true what they say about men in kilts?”

“I don’t know. What would they be saying?”

“Y-you, w-wear nothing beneath them?” The thought of sliding her hand up the back of his kilt, running her hands up his thick muscled thighs and caressing his firm rounded ass made her breathless, had her stuttering.

Colin stepped closer, putting both hands on the car roof, surrounding her. His gaze focused on her mouth. “Why don’t you find out for yourself, lass.” He leaned in, invading her space, and lowered his mouth, tasting her lips the way he’d wanted to for so, so long. He pressed his body against hers, wanting to bury himself between her thighs, but his damn sporran prevented him from feeling her mound when he tried to push his cock between her legs.

“You Highland men are big ones, aren’t you?” Her hands cupped his hips closer to his waist than his ass and kept him splayed against her. He smiled. The double entendre didn’t get past him.

“Move yer hands a bit lower and slide them under my plaid. Ye’ll be finding out the truth of the rumors fer yerself.” He wished she’d try. She’d find out just how little the men wore and exactly how big they got. The mystery could be solved and his immediate need satisfied, if only slightly, for the moment.

Okay... someone pass the ice cold water. Or maybe that should be wine! Verra, verra, hot, Eliza!

So tell me, how do you respond when someone says...

"Oh, you write THAT kind of book?"

Usually, I’m the one warning them off what I write. You’d be surprised how many people want to look open minded when you approach it like that. So, in my experience, I’ve found reverse psychology does work extremely well on those types. “Oh, I don’t think you’d be interested in the kind of books I write. I write romantic erotica (paranormal, fantasy, and contemporary) and they’re really quite graphic -- I must warn you.”
I get several different responses, but since I’ve taken the wind from their sails, sticking their noses in the air isn’t one of them.

Ohhh great idea. I'll have to try that.
What are your goals as a writer?

My immediate goal is to finish revising my current book and move on to my next series, a paranormal epic that has been in the works for five years. I have two books finished and the third one started. I have an outline for six at the moments, but who knows where our characters lead us. There could be more.
My long term goal is to keep writing about characters my readers love and the adventures they get caught up in. As long as my characters keep showing up on the paper, I’ll keep telling their tales.

How many books do you read a month?

I probably read close to thirty a month, some for pleasure, some for work and some for research.
Do you have anything new in the works?
I have another erotic novella due out next month and another, which should be finished five minutes after this interview is over. LOL

Wow, do I feel like a slacker. Thirty books is a lot! Good for you.

Where can we find you?

Visit my website http://ElizaMarch.com or for more up-to-date rants stop by my blog at http://elizamarch.blogspot.com

Oh, and I’m on Facebook, but I’m warning you I don’t Twitter... Sorry, I’m too easily distracted.
Where can we find your books?

I write for The Wild Rose Press and Siren-Bookstrand
HOT HIGHLAND FLING is with The Wild Rose Press and my other two books, WITCH OF AIR AND FIRE and THE LION, THE LEOPARD, AND THE WOLF are available from Siren-Bookstrand.
FYI - I’m working on lengthening my books and shortening my titles.

I love the titles and can't wait to get my hands on a copy. Best of luck with your latest release, Eliza!

Where I am today...

Virtually, I'm at Helen's Hero's today talking about Logan. So please stop by... Click Here...

Literally I'm taking the day off and headed to the beach with the kids. Whoo hoo!!!

I do hope you are all enjoying your summer and staying away from that swine flu!

*Big Kisses*

Editor Interview with Lori LeBonde

For my very special day... Oh... what day you ask? Well, Kilt Worthy is hot off the press and ready for you to purchase and download. Yeah me!

Anyway... I wanted to invite my editor over at The Wild Rose Press to join us. So please take the time to read and learn exactly what is going on in Lori's brain. I bet there is a whole lot of hanky panky going on!

Thank you Lori for joining me today. Tell us something about yourself and the publisher you work for.

The Wild Rose Press (TWRP) is a warm-hearted and professional - what a great combination -publisher of fine romance in both electronic and traditionally printed formats. In mid-2008, after studying the company from afar for six months and liking what I saw, I applied to be an editor. The second-most exciting day that year was when I was hired; the most exciting day was when I learned I'd be working in the Scarlet Rose line, which publishes erotic romances, including Catherine Bybee's Kilt Worthy. At first I was simply thrilled to know I'd get paid to read erotic romance (hot damn!) and work with authors who appreciate the same things I do, but I soon realized how lucky I am to learn the erotic romance e-publishing world from Scarlet’s incredibly talented senior editor, Diana Carlile.

I'm not as new to editing as I am to TWRP, however. My first grade teacher wrote on my report card that I wanted to be a nurse, a hair stylist and an editor when I grew up. Cathy would agree I’m no nurse, and anyone who sees my picture knows I'm not a hair stylist, but the editor idea took hold. I wrote and edited my way through high school and college, graduated with degrees in Communications and French Lit, and somehow landed a managing editor position at a small publishing company. Later, I spent too many years in corporate marketing where I did everything from writing annual reports, brochures, ads and media relations campaigns to organizing 250 aging shareholders on expensive bus trips to strategic planning for the company and my department. Through it all, I emphasized written communications, and regularly mentored other writers -- and non-writers -- on my staff and elsewhere in the company.

In 2006, I realized I could work an insane number of hours for myself instead of for those shareholder and corporate types, and achieve more balance in my life. Most importantly, I could focus full-time on authors who want to build their credibility with every word. The decision was easy, and every day I smile when I think where I used to be and where I am now.

What do you enjoy most about your job? What do you like least?

READING nourishes my soul. TWRP romances nourish my heart, while the erotic aspect nourishes...other body parts! LOL Seriously, authors, editors, publishers -- we all love books and the written word. It's what binds us together. I absolutely believe I have the best job in the world.

The hardest part, however, is saying no to an author who submitted a promising manuscript, but for whatever reason it's not a good fit with TWRP. Those rejection letters really bite, and are likely as painful to me as to the authors who receive them. I continue to think about those authors for weeks -- months -- afterward, and wonder how they're doing. I really mean it when I say keep in touch! :-)

What are you looking for in a new author?

A fresh voice, new ideas, memorable characters, a workable premise -- those are all true. But I get really jazzed when I discover a writer who wants to learn how to make her work more publishable, who completely “gets” that edits and revisions can be as important to the story as its original writing, and who blows me away with the caliber (quality, seamlessness, creativity) of her edits. Then, I know I've found someone (or rather, she's found us!) who will go a long way in this business.

Where do you see e-publishing going in the next 3 - 5 years?

E-publishing will continue its phenomenal rise as more readers discover and experience reading ebooks and as publishers of more genres embrace the concept. Huge online companies, such as Google and Amazon, will continue to innovate delivery systems to readers of all generations.

Print books, in my opinion, will never go away, at least not until there's a worldwide method of creating and affordably distributing an alternate method of cozily putting a good story in a reader's hands while she curls up in front of the fireplace on a chilly night, or swings lazily in a hammock on a warm summer day. (Add a DH close by -- who's wise enough to let her read uninterrupted for long periods of time -- and you have my idea of paradise on a budget! LOL)

If there was one thing about the publishing world that you could change... what would that be?

Free books for everyone! Seriously, that is my wish.

What is your biggest pet-peeve when you're reviewing a manuscript?

There's not one predominant pet peeve I grind my teeth over, but I do sigh over a couple of smaller ones.

The first is when an author races through her edits and returns the manuscript to me without sleeping on the recommendations I made or the changes she subsequently made. I've received revised manuscripts in worse shape than when I sent them out - ouch! This does nothing to move up the release date, impress me with the author's skills, or tempt me to move that author's manuscript to the top of the pile (not that I would do that anyway, but...!). I don't expect or want edits to be done overnight. If a suggested change is that easy, the author would have done it that way to start with, right?!

My other pet peeve is much smaller, and distilled to one word: proofread. Yeah, I know it's my job to catch mistakes, and I promise I will. I also know that by the time you're ready to send it back to me (or submit it in the first place), you've been over it so many times you'd rather run naked down the street when all your neighbors are outside watching (wait, that might be a bad example for you Scarlet authors who include exhibitionism or voyeurism in your work)! But no matter what, authors still need to proofread.

I tell authors, impress me with your level of professionalism, your attention to detail, your commitment to the craft -- in addition to your ability to write a sex scene so erotic I forget I'm editing and simply read it for pleasure. And believe me, that happens A LOT! We have fantastically talented authors in the naughty Scarlet corner of The Wild Rose Press's extensive garden.

And speaking of talent, I learned a lot from you, Cathy, as we edited Kilt Worthy. *Grin* Thank you for your wit, humor and energy. And for inviting me today! All the best on your big release day. :-)

Lori LeBonde

LOL... of course I never, ever, send edits back to soon! Especially when Lori warns me that she doesn't want to see them for al least a week! hehe

Thanks for joining me today, Lori. Kilt Worthy holds a special place in my heart because of your support and help along the road to publication. Thank you!

In celebration of Kilt Worthy

In celebration of my debut release this Friday, I'll be on multiple blogs. Here is the line up.

Friday August 7th *RELEASE DAY*

Shelley Munro Blog

And

Christina Phillips Blog

On August 10th I'll be visiting Helen Hardt's Blog.

On August 14th I'll be yakking with Rachel Moniz.

So please stop by so I don't feel like a dork without friends. lol

Feel free to stop by here on my blog on the 7th as well. I have my scarlet editor, Lori LeBonde, in my hot seat.

I've asked her all kinds of questions that I'm sure you'd be interested in reading the answers to. Lori is all kinds of fun! She even suggested that I pop in my kilted Scotch boys to entertain you.

So...

For you Lori...

Kilt Worthy's Release Date

Yeah!!! Kilt Worthy has a release date...

August 7th! I'll be setting up interviews and contests for my release.

I look forward to your feedback on my debut release.

Blurb:

Peering at the world from behind her camera lens, "Plain Jane" Parker is stunned to see a handsome hunk wearing a kilt as he confidently strolls down a busy Seattle street. Her dormant libido roars to life even before their eyes meet. Aroused and intrigued, she tosses aside her usual caution and follows when Logan MacLaren beckons for a delightfully sinful one-night stand.Logan is an exceptionally talented lover, wielding the abundant sword he sports beneath his plaid to deliver unparalleled pleasures. He reminds her to trust her instincts after reality proves they're a more perfect fit than either imagined.

Then Logan drops his bombshell: He's traveled through time to find her, and wants her to stay with him forever...in medieval Scotland.

Did Jane just have the most erotic sex of her life with a delusional crazy man, or is it truly possible for her one-night stand to last forever?

Today I have a very special guest. Author Helen Hardt is celebrating her third erotic release, Thai'd Up over at The Wild Rose Press. Thanks so much for joining me today, Helen.

Tell us about your new book out now:

Thai'd Up is my third erotic short story for the Destination Pleasure series in the Scarlet (erotic) line at The Wild Rose Press. This one crosses into the double rose rating. My previous two, Seduced in Seoul and Passion in Paris, are rated single rose, though my free read, Seoul Pleasure, which is a companion story to Seduced in Seoul, is a double rose. Double rose means the story contains explicit and graphic love scenes and may contain subject matter that is offensive to some readers, including extreme explicit language, anal sex, BDSM, fetishism, ménage, and/or experimentation with same sex. As you can guess from the title, it's mild BDSM that makes Thai'd Up a double rose.

Blurb:

Visiting Bangkok to do an interview for her employer, Heidi Clarke is intrigued by the wild and raucous nightlife. When a handsome and engaging stranger, dressed as the Phantom of the Opera, offers to escort her into a BDSM club, she's too curious to refuse. As the man behind the mask introduces Heidi to new and exciting pleasures of the flesh, she can't help but wonder who he is. Or if she really wants to know.This was a fun one to write. I actually came up with the title first. Once I had that, I knew I had to write a story for it!

I love it when a story comes together like that.

How do you respond when someone says... "Oh, you write THAT kind of book.

"Truthfully, no one has ever said that to me, LOL. I do know, however, that there’s a stigma attached to erotic romance. I’ve written extensively on my website, in interviews, and in my local chapter newsletter about the differences among porn, erotica, and erotic romance. I consider what I write to be romance. Yes, there are explicit sex scenes, but they serve a purpose other than to arouse the reader. They exist to develop the relationship between the hero and heroine and to help move the plot along to its happy ending. Or in the case of an erotic short, its "happy for now."Any kind of romance, including erotic romance, is a feel-good read, and I'm glad to be writing it. There's a reason why romance sales are flourishing in our current economy ;).

What are your goals as a writer?

To be a New York Times bestseller, of course! Well, eventually. Right now I'd like to make a name for myself and move from epublishing to New York publishing. I'd like to make enough money writing so my husband doesn't have to work. He has supported me all these years, and I'd like to do the same for him.I'd also like to continue to grow as a writer. I want each story that I write to be a little better than the last. I'm constantly finding ways to improve. A writer never stops learning!

How many books do you read a month? Are they all romance?

I read a lot. Two to three books a week, usually, and sometimes more. No, they're not all romance, though the majority are. I just finished reading Columbine by Dave Cullen, which is a deep look into the tragedy at Columbine High School ten years ago. I live in Colorado, so this hit close to home for me. As for romance reading, I read everything except inspirational and romantic suspense. I have a Sony e-reader for my ebooks, and I still read lots of print, too. When I'm not writing or editing, I'm reading! Reading is a huge part of a writer's self education, in my opinion. Who better to learn from than other writers who have been successful?I completely agree.Do you have anything new in the works?I have several other releases planned for this year. First up is a western historical novella, The Outlaw's Angel, which releases June 5 in the Wild Rose Press anthology Lawmen and Outlaws. After that comes Blood Wolf, which was one of the winners of the Got Wolf? contest sponsored by The Wild Rose Press. It's coming in October. My first Ellora's Cave story, Slow and Wet, will release in November as part of their "Wet" theme. My last Destination Pleasure erotic short, Montego Lay, is in the initial editing phase, so I don't know when it will release yet.I have several works in progress, including a Native American historical novella, a cougar story, and an erotic fantasy complete with Greek Gods. Several of my full length novels were requested by editors at my local conference a few weeks ago, so I need to get them polished and out the door.

Where can we find you? Your book?

Visit me at http://www.helenhardt.com/ and http://www.helensheroes.blogspot.com/. You can also find me at http://www.coloradovixens.blogspot.com/, the blog I share with my local critique partners.Thai'd Up is available at http://www.wilderroses.com/, along with Seduced and Seoul and Passion in Paris.

Thank you for having me, Catherine!

Thanks for stopping by, Helen.

Kilt Worthy's Excerpt

As promised, my official excerpt of Kilt Worthy. One to whet your whistle and prime you for my summer release.

Blurb:

Peering at the world from behind her camera lens, "Plain Jane" Parker is stunned to see a handsome hunk wearing a kilt as he confidently strolls down a busy Seattle street. Her dormant libido roars to life even before their eyes meet. Aroused and intrigued, she tosses aside her usual caution and follows when Logan MacLaren beckons for a delightfully sinful one-night stand.

Logan is an exceptionally talented lover, wielding the abundant sword he sports beneath his plaid to deliver unparalleled pleasures. He reminds her to trust her instincts after reality proves they're a more perfect fit than either imagined.

Then Logan drops his bombshell: He's traveled through time to find her and wants her to stay with him forever...in medieval Scotland. Did Jane just have the most erotic sex of her life with a delusional crazy man, or is it truly possible for her one-night stand to last forever?

Excerpt:

What is he wearing under there, anyway?

Dragging my gaze up to his, I swear he could read my thoughts yet again. His cocky grin grew larger when my eyes traveled back down his hard torso and I saw a twitch beneath his kilt. A really big twitch.

I dug in my heels, shook my head and started to back away. “Maybe this is a mistake.”

His hand reached out and caressed my cheek, his eyes glued to mine. One more step back and the brick building stopped my retreat. Mr. Kilt leaned in. Heat, mixed with his strong male scent, surrounded my quivering body. His other hand came up and rested on the wall behind me.

Boxed in, I watched his lips move, his breath quicken and something that looked like concern stream from his eyes. Every nerve in my body called out, wanting his touch. I forgot about the alley as my attention narrowed to him and the rapidly shrinking space between us.

Book Trailer for Kilt Worthy

Tell me what you think! I value your opinions.

Debut Author Ann Campbell

Thank you all for stopping by today. I'd like to introduce to you Ann Campbell who is celebrating her debut release LIGHTS OUT. This Scarlet Rosette was released March 5th over at The Wilder Rose Press.



Ann is not only a fellow Wilder Rose, she also happens to be in the critique group you guys always here me talking about. Having seen LIGHTS OUT before it was even submitted to TWRP, I can tell you first hand that it is a very hot read and well worth your time.

My new set of questions for authors is my way of spicing up the interview, so here we go...
Click here or on the picture to go directly to TWRP to purchase your copy today.

How many books do you read a month, and are they all romance?
I read on average 10 to 20 books a month. Though most are romance, a good portion of them are children's books that I read to my two children

Why do you write Erotic?
Why not? I like to read it, I love to act it, so why not write about it!

What are your goals as a writer?
I have no delusions of grander. I in no way expect to be the next Nora Roberts but if I could write and sell enough to make sure my kids get a great Christmas every year and maybe take a vacation with the family, I would consider myself a success

How do you respond when someone says... "Oh, you write THAT kind of book."
YOU BET I DO!! and my hubby loves helping me with my .....RESEARCH!

Tell us about your book.
My new book is called LIGHTS OUT. It was the very first story I ever submitted and amazingly I got a contract for it very quickly. It takes place in the Colorado Rockies during a January snow storm. Two friends find themselves stuck together to wait out the storm and things start to ....heat up!

What was the biggest challenge with your debut book?
Finding the time. I stopped working just after my daughter was born because we found out our son was Autistic. He was in his first week of Kindergarten and was having problems with the day care he was going to before and after school. Hubby and I decided that it would be much better for him if I stayed at home and gave him the stability he so desperately needed. Now with 2 kids (ages 7 and 17 months) I can barely find time to work. But after the lights go out in the evenings, I can be found plastered to my computer. Drives my husband nuts!

Thank you for taking the time to talk with us today, Ann.
You can read more about Ann at her WEBSITE and BLOGSPOT.