RomCon Reader - December 2015 by RomCon

December 2015

PLUS... Elizabeth Camden Vanessa Vale Chris Keniston SE Smith Bella Bryce Jerrie Alexander

M.L. CALLAHAN 40 TOP REVIEWED BOOKS!

RomCon速 2016 | Interviews | Articles | Excerpts | Nerdy Girl Book Reviews Recommendations

DECEMBER 2015

30 Cover

ISSUE #10

Spotlight:

PARANORMAL: M.L. CALLAHAN An excerpt from her newest release, Defiance.

Genre Spotlights & Book Excerpts: 18

INSPIRATIONAL: ELIZABETH CAMDEN

An interview and excerpt from Until The Dawn

ROMANTIC SUSPENSE: JERRIE ALEXANDER An excerpt from Flirting With Fate

SCI-FI: ML CALLAHAN An excerpt from The Ozera Wars Series

EROTIC: VANESSA VALE An excerpt from Dahlia, Book 3 in the Wildflowers Of Montana Series

CONTEMPORARY: BELLA BRYCE An excerpt from Unfailing Love

CONTEMPORARY: CHRIS KENISTON An excerpt from Aloha, Texas

SCI-FI: SE SMITH An excerpt from Challenging Saber

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DECEMBER 2015

Editor’s Note From the Desk of ML Callahan

As I sit down to write this note, the world seems to have gone a bit crazy. Shootings in Paris and here in Colorado. Millions of refugees displaced all over the world, and arguments between politicians everywhere about what can or should be done to help them and to protect the public. Fighting and more fighting. I don’t have any answers, but I do know this, the world needs stories about love, forgiveness, and hope now more than ever. As long as there is love anywhere, there is hope everywhere. Whether you write Romance, read it, or share it with the world on a blog, we are all participating in spreading positive emotions in a world that seems to focus on the negative. This holiday season, no matter what your politics or personal belief, turn off the news, turn away from negativity and chaos, and read. Call old friends and see how they’re doing. Hug your family. Volunteer at a local charity or donate to a global cause. The world needs connections, communication and love now more than ever. And that is something the Romance community truly understands. Happy Holidays. Michele Callahan Hugs & Happy Reading!

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ML (Michele) Callahan

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DECEMBER 2015

AMAZING BOOKS FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE! OCTOBER 2015

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ETERNAL OATH BY JEWEL QUINLAN Reviewed by: Susan Genre: Romantic Suspense Heat Level: Hot

First, let me say that I’m a huge fan of the original Grimm tales, so when I had an opportunity to read a modern take on Fundevogel, I totally jumped on it.  Because of the bare bones structure of the original tale, Jewel Quinlan was able to hash out an amazing story that grabbed the reader and didn’t let him/her go. The story moved at a quick but steady pace.  There was enough grit to make it enjoyable even though the conclusion was inevitable and easily predicted.  Definitely worth reading and I’m looking forward to other stories in the anthology!

COMMAND THE TIDES BY WREN HANDMAN Reviewed by: Susan Genre: Fantasy/Sci-Fi Heat Level: Mild

A fun romp through a new world full of intrigue and suspense makes this an awesome book. Fun without being annoying (in fact, the middle-class take on upper society is absolutely hilarious in a it’s-so-true-it’s-painfully-funny sort of way) and a definite must read!  The next in the series will definitely make my to-read pile as soon as I cut down on the current on a bit!

DEVIOUS DEBUTANTE BY URSULA LECOEUR Reviewed by: Patty Genre: Historical Romance Heat Level: Hot

Ursula LeCouer has become one of my all-time favorite authors after I read her epic novel “The Devious Debutante.” Ms. LeCouer adds many twists and turn in this delightful story of intrigue and revenge creating a passion between two characters that are meant to be together.

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DECEMBER 2015

NIGHTSHADE BY EVELYN LEDERMAN Reviewed by: Chantal Genre: Paranormal Romance Heat Level: Hot

Evelyn just keeps on giving. I’ve read a fair few vampire books and this is completely different from any I’ve read. An excellent new view of vampires. Evelyn truly makes you believe in her story, and you can believe that somewhere in a far off universe this is really happening. I found myself immersed in her world.

LONG LOST BY ROCHELLE WILCOX Reviewed by: Chantal Genre: Fantasy/Sci-Fi Heat Level: None

Wow. I’m a fan of fantasy works, and this is right up there. Rochelle brings the Greek gods to life in the 21st century. Who could have guessed Oden, Thor, Loki and Freyr walk the same streets we do. You can really believe and immerse yourself in this book. I laughed and I cried, can’t wait to read the next book.

RYE MUST DIE BY DAKOTA MADISON & SAVANNAH YOUNG Reviewed by: Merite Genre: Paranormal Romance Heat Level: Mild

For a new author, this book something else. Fast paced and very interesting is the great way to describe this book. With just the right amounts of romance, comedy, and paranormal, the reader will take a wonderful journey. What a treat this book turned out to be.

ENTHRALL BY VANESSA FEWINGS Reviewed by: Christine Genre: Erotic Romance Heat Level: Hot

I love the picture on the cover- that is what drew me to the book. I was expecting one thing and was pleasantly surprised when the book went in other directions and kept me guessing what would happen next until the end. I enjoyed the characters, they each added to the story. Mia needs a better job to help pay for her step-mothers hospital bills. She finds one and learns about a lot of other things while working. Richard and Cameron are interesting and both impact Mia’s life, in different ways. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

DECEMBER 2015

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EXPOSING JUSTICE BY MISTY EVANS & ADRIENNE GIORDANO Reviewed by: Heidi Howard Genre: Romantic Suspense Heat Level: Mild

When the two team up to solve the case, sparks fly as well as bullets. The chemistry between the H/h is spot on and I loved watching their relationship progress.

A VERY CRIMSON CHRISTMAS BY MICHELLE MAJOR Reviewed by: Rhonda Genre: Contemporary Romance Heat Level: Mild

This great story will tug at your heartstrings. It really takes you along through the up and downs, the love and the misunderstandings. I’m looking forward to reading other books in the Crimson series.

JOINING HEARTS BY IONA FINDLAY Reviewed by: Pennie Morgan Genre: Contemporary Romance Heat Level: Mild

Zoe is a smoke jumper/firefighter/paramedic who was hurt on a jump and now is recovering in New York City while working an arson case. One of the suspects turns out to be a contractor who is rehabilitating 3 of the homes burnt. Marcus is a single dad who is raising his teenage daughter, Linnie, and they are both trying to figure out how to survive growing up. This is a heartwarming story and watching Zoe and Marcus and Linnie fall was so special. The characters were all well-defined. Even though this is the third installment in the series, it is a stand-alone.  8

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DECEMBER 2015

MUST LOVE GHOSTS BY ANI GONZALEZ Review by: Rhonda Genre: Paranormal Romance Heat Level: Hot

When a ghost loving singer meets up with her ex fiancée’s best friend you get this funny book with enough heat to meet your ereader. I can’t wait to see more Banshee Creek books.

RUNNING IN FLIP-FLOPS BY ABIGAIL FAY Reviewed by: Patty Genre: Mainstream Heat Level: Mild

“Running in Flip Flops” is an eye-opening novel by Abigail Fay about a Peace Corps volunteer who is trying to make a difference in the people of Senegal’s lives. The novel follows the day to day trials and triumphs of Shannon Wheaton, a fresh faced volunteer, who lands in Senegal with her grasp of the French language and little or no knowledge of the people she will be living with for the next two years. Ms. Fay takes her readers on an incredible journey by describing the sights and sounds in such a way that you feel if you are on the same journey as Shannon Wheaton.

RISKING HEARTS BY IONA FINDLEY Reviewed by: Pennie Genre: Contemporary Romance Heat Level: Hot

This book opens with Hope, a caterer and airplane crash survivor, having a panic attack at the airport where one of her concession stands is opening. What really works for this book is the chemistry between these characters.When they are together, no matter how much Hope wants to stop what is happening, there are sparks setting fire to everything between them. This was a great story!

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DECEMBER 2015

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TUCKED AWAY BY JENNIE MARTS Reviewed by: Debbie Genre: Contemporary Romance Heat Level: Mild

I had never read anything by this author before so I had absolutely no idea as to what her writing style would be like. After I finished this book, I immediately started looking up everything else she’s written to add to my reading list. I loved this book!! I couldn’t put it down. It had everything I enjoy in a book - humor, a little bit of steamy romance without raunchy sex (sometimes that kind of stuff over and over again just feels like filler in a book), fun animals, just a bit of suspense and some hunky cowboys! I would definitely give this book a double thumbs up!!

SHARE THE MOON BY SHARON STRUTH Reviewed by: Laura Genre: Contemporary Romance Heat Level: Mild

Most of the time when we’re reading romances we can predict the end; what makes this book refreshing is that both main characters, while flawed and human, are strong enough to deal with their lives independently of each other but better together. You will know how it will end, the real joy will be the ride getting there.

TESTED BY THE NIGHT BY MAXINE MANSFIELD Reviewed by: Heather Genre: Erotic Romance Heat Level: Hot

This book starts off quickly and the story progresses smoothly. The passion between Talon and Mia is fierce.  There chemistry starts off hot and just continues to grow.  The author creates a strong world for these characters.  The side characters are hilarious and interesting.  They added a strong element to this book.  The story line had a good mixture of heavy/serious and humor.  I felt this was a good book and a good introduction to this author’s works.

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DECEMBER 2015

RELEASING THE DEMONS BY L.D. ROSE Reviewed by: Merite Genre: Paranormal Romance Heat Level: Bloodthirsty

This was such a fantastic read that I didn’t do much for the last day other than turn the pages.The story quickly pulled me in. I loved all the characters and their different personalities. I especially enjoyed Ringle’s take on the story of Hades. It was wonderfully written, very polished and consistent, and I seriously need to start needing the next one now! I would have to say this was a very nice surprise. Most paranormal romance books are just that romance. This book however, takes the reader on a very fast paced ride with lots of action and a great story line. Was so worth reading. I sure hope there is more to come.

PERSEPHONE’S ORCHARD BY MOLLY RINGLE Reviewed by: Nicole Genre: Paranormal Romance Heat Level: Mild

I’M MAID FOR YOU BY LUXX MONROE Reviewed by: Pennie Genre: Erotic Romance Heat Level: Hot

Natalie was maid for Kent and it all it took was her mother getting sick and Natalie needing to find a way to pay for medical bills to find this out. Natalie takes a job as a maid and when she meets Kent he instantly decides he needs a live in maid. This book was a quick and sexy read that reassures us that there is such a thing as love at first sight.

DECEMBER 2015

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DON’T FORGET TO BREATHE BY CATHERINA CONSTANTINE Reviewed by: Stephanie Genre:YA Heat Level: Mild

This is one of the best YA books I’ve read in a long time. I put it up there with Thirteen Reasons Why and The Book Thief. They all are great reads and spark good discussions in book clubs (I help pick books for an after school high school book club). This book had so much going on as it was a mystery and a romance with a weird love triangle at the same time. This is a tough book to put down so be prepared to have the time to read it. I needed to know who killed her mom and how things were going to work out for Leo. People weren’t always as they first appeared.

ALWAYS DANGEROUS BY DEE J. ADAMS Reviewed by: Nicole Genre: Romantic Suspense Heat Level: Hot

Leo and Kim have quite the relationship with many sparks that ignite the way. Kim seems to frequently forget though about how she is being targeted by someone and her desire for independence puts her in danger a few times. Leo struggles opening up to Kim but eventually learns to communicate which brings them closer. This is definitely a story about overcoming one’s stubbornness for the greater good. Loved the ending of the story, loved the characters, and I even loved the villain.

THE CHRISTMAS COWBOY BY SHANNA HATFIELD Reviewed by: Barbara Genre: Contemporary Romance Heat Level: Sweet

Kenzie Beckett a corporate trainer for a successful direct sales cosmetic company and Tate Morgan a saddle bronc rider. Meet while waiting for their plane, they talk all the way to where they are going, when they get off Tate kisses Kenzie for luck, and he wins his event.This is the start of what Tate hopes will be forever, but Kenzie has been hurt by her ex- fiancé , and Tate has a stalker who does not want Kenzie in his life and is willing to do anything ! Will they get a Christmas to remember? I liked this story so much I bought the other two in the series. 12

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DECEMBER 2015

CAUGHT BETWEEN A LIE AND TRUE LOVE BY SHEILA SEABROOK Reviewed by: Barbara Genre: Contemporary Romance Heat Level: Mild

This is the first book I have read by this author. It is about Paige Calhoun and Brody Jackson and their teen age daughters as they come back to the place they grew up in, and a cast of lovable ,unpredictable men and women. Found it funny and lighthearted. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.” I want to read the rest of her books.

OF THE PERSECUTED BY ANGIE BRASHEAR Reviewed by: Chantal Genre: Fantasy/Sci-Fi Heat Level: Sweet

An amazing read. The characters all have their own stories to reveal along the way. I love the way she’s made a fantasy world for the story, then added ours as a dream world. Yes the story is based around faith but it’s not done in a way that’s over the top or in your face.

DEADY RACE BY ELKE FEUER Reviewed by: Chantal Genre: Romantic Suspense Heat Level: Mild

Funny, witty, action packed and keeps you on your toes. Elke knows how to keep you guessin , and she does just that in this stuning book. She writes so you feel the thrill of the race, the horror remy feels and the desire she feels.You want to be remy with her smart mouth, sassy ways and drive for what she wants.

DECEMBER 2015

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FIRE ON ICE BY DAKOTA MADISON Reviewed by: Bette H Genre: New Adult Heat Level: Hot

LOVED this (these) books. I was a little leery about reading this since I knew rape was part of the subject matter. While never a topic I enjoy reading about, I’m glad I put that aside and decided to read this one because the story is about so much more than that one horrific act of violence. Sometimes just knowing that love is there is all you need to overcome some very dark days, take strength and determination from it, and come out the other side of the darkness a better and stronger person. I found this story incredibly moving and I would recommend it to everyone.

COP ON HER DOORSTEP Reviewed by: Chantal Genre: Contemporary Romance Heat Level: Mild

Cop on her Doorstep was a cute, fun, read. The process of finding and learning to love again was very apparent and nice to read about. The transition from a bitter attitude toward cops to loving a cop was amazing. The book was well written and easy to follow.

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DECEMBER 2015

THE ONLY SORCERESS BY ANYA BRETON Reviewed by: Chantal Genre: Fantasy Heat Level: Mild

Witty, funny and has you wondering from the first to last page. Every character has their own little story and secrets the become clear one-piece at a time.

THE GRYPHON AND HIS THIEF BY KAREN MICHELLE NUTT Reviewed by: Chantal Genre: New Adult Heat Level: Mild

An excellent read, canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to read the next book. Karen makes you believe in all things paranormal, and toe curling kisses.

DECEMBER 2015

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Inspirational

DECEMBER 2015

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Inspirational

elizabeth CAMDEN CHARACTER INTERVIEW QUENTIN VANDERMARK FROM UNTIL THE DAWN Quentin, you have been compared to “the Beast” from Beauty & the Beast, but most people only have terrific things to say about Sophie. Would you care to comment? First of all, I’m not a beast.Yes, I’m a dark person, but I’ve got good cause for that. I’m not as sunny and cheerful as that annoying Sophie person who has been living in my house and pestering me to no end; she is a force of nature beyond anything I’ve ever encountered. I can’t stand her. She’s ceaselessly kind and good-hearted no matter the circumstances. People like that are destined to be stomped flat. Someday she’ll learn the world is not a safe little cocoon where she can perform her works of goodness and mercy to an adoring crowd. Sophie van Riijn is a lone naïve daisy standing in a field, begging to be shot for target practice. You’ve been pretty tough on Sophie, a woman who only wants to help your son and look after your mansion. You fired her from her job within moments of meeting her and routinely belittle her. Can’t you think of one nice thing to say about her?

It has been said there is a mystery hidden deep in the mansion where you live. Can you tell us about that? Nonsense. My great-grandfather died under mysterious circumstances, and the people of the village have been trying for ages to spin that into some sort of mythical curse haunts my family down the generations. I am a man of science. If something cannot be seen and touched, it is not real. Hence, the mystery is utter rot. Rumor has it that Sophie thinks you are attractive. She does? I don’t believe it. She’s embarrassed about it, too. Well good! I’m too old for her. Oil and water and all that. . . . But did she really say I’m attractive? I’ll need to snuff that out before it gets out of hand. An interesting development, though . . .

I’ve admitted she’s shockingly beautiful. Isn’t that enough? No, it’s not. Say something nice about her as a person. Look, if you breathe a word of this to anyone, I will hunt you down and make sure there isn’t enough left for a burial. . . . I respect her. She has a radiant optimism that drives me insane, but she is probably the most admirable person I’ve ever known. I worry about her because someone that gentle can’t survive in a world as dark as this.

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Inspirational

EXCERPT: UNTIL THE DAWN

Fascinated by Dierenpark, an abandoned mansion high atop a windswept cliff in the Hudson River Valley, Sophie van Riijn sees no harm in setting up a rooftop weather station for her work with the newly established Weather Bureau. While the villagers are suspicious of the mysterious estate and its tragic history, Sophie has come to see it as her own enchanted piece of paradise. The first Vandermark to return to the area in sixty years, Quentin intends to put an end to the shadowy rumors about the property that has brought nothing but trouble upon his family. Ready to tear down the mansion, he is furious to discover Sophie trespassing on his land. Instantly at odds, Quentin and Sophie yet find common ground when she is the only one who can reach his troubled son. There’s a light within Sophie that Quentin has never known, and a small spark of the hope that left him years ago begins to grow. But when the secrets of Dierenpark can no longer be kept in the past, will tragedy triumph or can their tenuous hope prevail?

moment later she arrived, looking impossibly lovely in a simple gown. It annoyed him to see her looking so pretty first thing in the morning. “Miss van Riijn, correct?” “Yes, but everyone calls me Sophie.” “Fine. You’re fired, Sophie.” She laughed while setting a covered basket on the table. “I brought some fresh scones. They’re almond.” “Excellent. Leave the scones, but you’re still fired.” It aggravated him that she found his comment amusing. “But I’ve never worked for you, so you can’t really fire me, can you?” She drifted closer to the table, gazing through the window with a wistful expression on her face. “I always love this time of day. I like to stand at this exact spot, where I can see the goldfinches playing in the birch trees and watch the sun rise. It is a perfect place to gather my thoughts and count my blessings.” He fought not to roll his eyes. “Miss van Riijn, please be aware that I am violently allergic to your brand of doe-eyed sentimentality. That much sugary optimism spilled into the atmosphere this early in the morning is liable to send us all spiraling into a diabetic coma.” She cocked her head at a charming angle. “I don’t understand what you just said, but I think it was an insult. Are you sure you wouldn’t like a scone?” He schooled his face into an impassive mask. It took a barrel of gall to waltz in here after he fired her yesterday, and yet she slipped past Mr. Gilroy with ease and kept him nattering like a magpie. He normally did not feel much sympathy for people who exuded such bottomless good cheer, but there was something oddly attractive about her. “I’m still waiting for you to explain your entirely unwelcome visit.” “I need to get up onto the roof to check the weather station. The government has a new agency called the Weather Bureau, and they’ve set up thousands of stations all across the country where volunteers keep track of the climate. I telegraph the data to Washington every morning.” Admirable, but he wasn’t going to let it soften him. “I don’t want you tromping through my house every morning, so you’ll have to find another place to work your acts of goodness and mercy. Now get out of here. You’re trespassing.” A deep flush stained her cheeks, a sign he was getting to her, which was good. She had participated in a gross DECEMBER 2015

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Inspirational misuse of his property and ought to feel at least a little shame. Instead, it appeared she was ready to challenge him. “Sir, I have been coming to this house to take climate readings for the past nine years. I have come every single morning without fail. Through ice storms and floods. On every Easter and every Christmas. I came when I had influenza and could barely walk a straight line. I came on the day my mother died, and on the day she was buried.” Her voice wobbled a little, but instead of dissolving in tears, she straightened her spine and got stronger. “Maybe some people don’t understand loyalty,” she continued,“but there are thousands of farmers and sailors who depend on me for accurate weather forecasts. I won’t let a rich, privileged outsider dissuade me from that duty.” Quentin didn’t move a muscle. Didn’t let a hint of emotion show on his face. He stared at her until she lost a little starch and started to fidget. “Go upstairs and take your measurements,” he said quietly.

Elizabeth Camden

Inspirational Romance Author

lizabeth Camden is the author of eight historical novels and has been honored with a RITA Award, Christy Award, and Daphne du Maurier Award. With a master’s in history and a master’s in library science, she is a research librarian by day and scribbles away on her next novel by night. She lives with her husband in Florida. Learn more at www.elizabethcamden.com.

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Romantic Suspense

MAY/JUNE 2014 www.romcon.com DECEMBER 2015 www.romcon.com

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Romantic Suspense

jerrie ALEXAND EXCERPT FROM FLIRTING WITH FATE

“

My brother and I are all the family Nan has left.” Liam smiled, patting Elle on the shoulder. “Your grandmother is fortunate to have you. We lost our grandson in a skiing accident last year.We’ve been considering selling the resort or turning it over to a management team.” “Brandon Ethridge will try to use your grief to his advantage,” Logan said. “It won’t work,” Liam said. “Not after hearing the truth about him.” Elle and Logan said their good-byes, but she stopped at the door and returned to Liam. “This place wouldn’t be the same without you and Alana. Your charm and love for each other makes the castle warm and welcoming. I’ll bet your grandson loved being here and wouldn’t want you to sell.” Elle hugged Liam and Alana and hurried out. Logan paused. His dark eyes sparkled. “What?” Elle asked. Her heart expanded. Breath caught. His expression confused her. Was it pride, confusion, or affection radiating from his face? “You’re amazing.” He cupped her cheeks and kissed her. Elle melted into him. Right there in the lobby without thought as to who might be watching, she slipped her arms around his waist and returned his kiss. “Thank you.” She barely managed to force out the words. She’d really wanted to beg for more. “My pleasure.” He turned her toward the restaurant. “I don’t know about you but I’m starving. I didn’t eat a muffin.” A few minutes later, they had been seated, and bowls of steaming hot chili were sitting in front of them. According to the menu, this meal was guaranteed to defrost the body and warm the soul. Elle wasn’t sure she could handle much more heat. Every cell in her body had fired, and only one thing was going to cool her off. Logan. She reminded herself why she’d come to Castle Alainn. 22

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Elle checked the nearby tables before she spoke. Privacy was critical. Luckily, everyone must have eaten earlier. Having a late lunch worked well to ensure they wouldn’t be overheard. “Surely you know someone who can unlock Brandon’s files. Someone not associated with law enforcement.” Logan finished his bite, washed it down with a sip of beer, and studied his spoon for a long minute. “I’ll see what I can do when we get back to the suite.” Her request had put Logan in a difficult position. His willingness to support her, to help her right this wrong, touched her heart. For him to agree so easily spoke volumes. He was doing this for her. Deep down she’d known it for years. Had she and Logan been in love all this time and ignored or refused to admit it? Had fate given her the chance to answer that question? “Thank you.” She slid her hand across the table palm up. He wrapped his fingers through hers and squeezed. “Let’s get to it.” Logan asked for the bill, signed it, and then stood. She took his hand and walked to the elevator. The doors had closed when Elle remembered Nicki’s request. “What do you think Nicki wanted?” Elle laughed when his right eyebrow lifted. “Besides your body.” “My money. I suggested that I might be disappointed in my current investment strategy.” “Smart.You should call when we get to the room.” “No. Let her wait. After Liam and Alana turn them away, I’m willing to bet that I’ll become a serious target.” “If they come after you, anything you learn can be used against them. Right?” “Right.” Logan slid his card key into the door lock. “Then I hope that works, even if it requires exposing you to that female piranha.” Logan glanced over his shoulder. “I’m touched that you’d worry about me.” “You misunderstand. I worry that you’ll fall under her spell and slip up,” she said, walking past him into

Romantic Suspense

DER the suite. His laugh followed her. She loved the quick and hearty sound. It made her knees weak as hell. “Okay, smart girl. Get out your laptop.” He pulled his cell from his pocket. How could he switch from oozing sex to serious detective mode in the blink of an eye? Elle set her laptop on the bar, turned it on, and waited for it to boot up. Logan was still on the phone when the program loaded. He winked at her. That simple gesture sent her heart dancing in her chest. “What’s your email address?” She answered him and then retrieved a coffee pod, dropping it in the dispenser and pressing the on button. Not that she needed the caffeine. Her nerves were already spring boarding around her body like a kid on a trampoline. “Fix me a cup too, please.” “What do we do next?” She selected another pod and waited for the first cup to finish. “My friend is sending a program for me to install on your laptop. It’s top of the line and should open your stolen files.” Strong hands slid around her waist, pulling her close. Logan’s face pressed into her neck. “You smell good enough to eat.” Laughter bubbled out of her. She couldn’t deny it sounded like a corny line, but it was also a great idea. She turned into his arms and kissed him. His tongue penetrated her mouth, and the ridge of his erection pressed against her belly. She leaned into him, wanting to feel his need. She deepened the kiss, putting herself out there, leaving no question as to what she wanted. Logan’s arms drew her in tighter. Elle cupped his cheek, rubbing her palm against the stubble. How would it feel against her skin? Logan moaned a low rumble. His chest vibrated, generating electric shocks that travelled through her system. Why had she waited so long to show him her feelings? The wait was over. “Elle. This is your call.” His voice was soft against her lips. His head tilted back, and his gaze zeroed in on her face. He studied her as if looking for a sign.

Elle Reagan isn’t about to stand by and let a con-artist get away with stealing her grandmother’s life savings. While the legal system moves at a snail’s pace, Elle promises to bring him to justice. She follows him to a ski resort in Colorado, where she hopes to get the evidence needed to put him away for good. But she didn’t count on her roommate being a distraction, because he wasn’t supposed to be her brother’s best friend. Detective Logan Ford has denied his desire to take Elle into his arms since they were teenagers, but when his partner asks him to follow her to Castle Alainn to keep her out of trouble. Unable to refuse her, he agrees to help catch a thief instead of convincing her to pack her bags and go home.To make matters worse, he can’t seem to remember why he should keep his distance from the delectable, infuriating, independent Elle. Elle and Logan surrender to their attraction, but as their passion ignites, her plot is discovered. A killer will do whatever it takes to silence her and destroy a love that was destined to last a lifetime.

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Sci-Fi & Urban Fantasy

Sci-Fi

Urban Fantasy

DECEMBER 2015

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Sci-Fi & Urban Fantasy

ml CALLAHAN THE OZERA WARS EROTIC SPACE OPERA

magine...A planet divided along two lines -- magic vs. technology. A society of women warriors who rule their continents with the most advanced weapons and technology in the quadrant. The Daughters of The House of Moons escaped from magical and sexual slavery over seven hundred years ago, but now produce Ozera Potent, a chemical weapon used suppress their own people, and to sexually enslave others. Imagine... a race of powerful sorcerers, who have had enough of the female Moon Warriors taking them hostage, stealing their seed, and then murdering their brothers. Let the battle begin.

ROGUEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DESTINY (Book 1) Hana is the second daughter of the House of Moons, sister to the Queen, and revered scholar of Anthea. Everything she believes about her people, and about herself, is a lie. Kiel Lonriev, Prince of Melos, left his home on a rescue mission. Captured by powerful Anthean elders, he knows death is preferable to the torture ahead. Only she can save him... Only he can show her the truth... Their forbidden union will violently alter the course of their planetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future.

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Sci-Fi & Urban Fantasy QUEEN’S DESTINY (Book 2) A strange message from a kidnapped friend sends Charla, next in line to the throne of Anthea, away from home in search of answers on the dangerous and scintillating Space Station Tantra 9. ‘T9’ is famous for illegal deeds, sexual slavery, and sales of everything imaginable, including the highly prized aphrodisiac Ozera Potent supplied by her people. But she gets too close to her prey and a sorceress from her own planet, an enemy, will take control of her mind and memories, sending her on another mission entirely...to track down and protect one of the most feared men from her home world, the bastard prince Padraic, pirate, rebel, and blood enemy. Padraic Lonriev is on a mission of his own. His beloved younger sister was kidnapped by slavers, his niece murdered, and the Crown Sentinals in charge of their protection have both mysteriously vanished. He’s determined to find his sister and her abductors, and he has no time for a meddling, naive Moon Warrior from Anthea no matter how attractive or deadly. Trouble is Charla is the only link he has to his missing sister. If he loses the trail now, he might never get it back. Now all he has to do is seduce the fierce female warrior without getting himself killed in the process...or falling in love.

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WARRIOR’S DESTINY (Book 3) Princess and powerful sorceress, Kamara Lonriev went to great lengths to escape her planet undetected to hunt her cousin’s killer. After months of posing as the Slave Empress, the notorious and highest priced courtesan on Tantra 9, her prey draws near, unable to resist her promised perversions, or the deep well of her magic, power the evil parasite needs to sustain his immortal life. Royal Crown Sentinel Tobiath is being hunted for a murder he did not commit. He walks and no one sees him. He watches and none notice his presence. He infiltrates spy rings, executes criminals, hunts the truth… and no one remembers his face. To his people, he is less than an insect, less than a ghost. Spy and assassin for his government, he is immune to magic. And so he moves, flows, and drifts anywhere and everywhere. Unseen and forgotten. Blood bound to his charge at her birth, Tobiath is the only one who knows the truth, the princess’s cousin is still very much alive, prisoner of an ancient and malevolent enemy. Honor bound to both rescue his charge and save the headstrong Kamara from her own machinations, he infiltrates the Slave Empress’s lair and takes her captive. Evil hunts them both. Tobiath can’t afford distractions. But how can he resist a woman he would die to possess, but is forbidden to touch?

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Sci-Fi & Urban Fantasy

se SMITH AN EXCERPT FROM CHALLENGING SABER:

“

Don’t cry,” he grunted out as a feeling of panic began to rise inside him. “Don’t….” His voice died when the first tear escaped to course down her cheek. “Shewta! You are trying to rip my heart out, aren’t you?” He sat down on the side of the bed. In the background, he could hear Carp quietly leaving them alone. He opened his arms when Taylor sat up. A deep sigh escaped him when her shoulders began to shake with her silent sobs. He awkwardly patted her back before he lowered his head and tightened his arms around her and rubbed his chin against her hair. “Jesse… Jordan,” Taylor sobbed. “They are safe,” Saber murmured. “Why did you leave? You were safe at the compound.” Taylor pulled back to gaze up at him with watery eyes. He reached for a tissue on the tray next to the bed and held it out to her when she sniffed. He waited as she blew her nose and wiped her eyes. “How were we supposed to know that?” Taylor asked stubbornly. “I heard Hunter say that Jesse was his Amate. I don’t know what that is, but it doesn’t sound good. We were going to try to head up to the cabin.” Saber gently raised Taylor’s chin so she was forced to look at him. An amused smile curved the corner of his lips when she wiggled her nose at him and gave him a slightly suspicious glare. His thumb ran tenderly along her lower lip. He raised an eyebrow at her when she tried to bite it. “Still trying to bite me, little one?” He asked with a soft chuckle. Taylor’s lips twitched. “You bet, old man,” she retorted before falling back against the pillow. “I’m tired,” she admitted with a huge yawn. “So, Jordan and Jesse are okay?” Saber nodded, seeing the pleading look in Taylor’s gaze. “I swear on my honor as a warrior,” he promised. “Sleep, my little warrior. I will look after you and keep you safe.”

Taylor rolled onto her side and gazed around the room with a frown. She rolled back over onto her back and gazed up at him. He could see the confusion in her eyes. “Where are we?” She asked in a hesitant voice. Saber reached over and tenderly brushed her hair back from her face. She relaxed back onto the pillow at his touch. Something told him that watching over her was going to be a challenge to not only his patience, but to his control as well. “We are on the Star Raider,” he murmured.“We are returning to Rathon, where my home is.” “Oh,” Taylor whispered before her eyes began to droop. “That’s kind-of cool.” Saber watched as her eyelids slowly lowered until they created two crescent moons against her pale cheeks. Within minutes, her breathing had deepened and he knew she had slipped into a deeper sleep. He glanced toward the door when he heard Carp pause outside of it. “Good luck, Saber,” Carp replied with a slight grin. “I have a feeling you, Dagger, and Hunter are about to discover a battle that will take all your skills to win.” Saber glanced back at Taylor’s relaxed face. Carp was probably right. One thing Saber knew, it was a battle he planned to win.

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PARANORMAL

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PARANORMAL

ml CALLAHAN EXCERPT FROM DEFIANCE:

alia Tsvetnova shrugged her black backpack higher on her left shoulder and kept her head down. Her life was in that bag. Her laptop. Her phone. Three pair of underwear, a brunette wig, some basic make-up and a change of clothes. “Can I help you miss?” The casino cashier was an older woman with short gray hair and sharp blue eyes. Her pale green and yellow uniform happened to be one of the ugliest pieces of clothing Talia had ever seen. “Yes.” Talia swung her printed token slips up onto the counter and smiled like the clueless blond she was pretending to be. “I just won these on some of those slot machines over there and I need to cash them in.” “Sure. Just a moment.” The woman took her slips and fed them one at a time into her machine. Talia considered interfering with the process, but decided to wait. She’d already taken what she needed from this place. Just being here was dangerous. Drawing more attention to herself would be beyond stupid. “Wow, sweetie.You did real good.” “I know, right? I like, love playing slots.” Talia grinned and popped the bubble gum she had in her mouth for good measure. Dumb blond. I’m a dumb blond. I’m a clueless idiot who got lucky, lucky, lucky. The blond wig she wore made her head itch, but the shoulder length tresses were so unlike her own short, dark hair that she didn’t even recognize herself when she looked in a mirror. The cheap plastic glasses frames she wore continually slid down her nose and made the bridge of her nose sweat. The plastic lenses were for show only. Her vision was perfect. She had on a dark blue cami under a button down flannel plaid shirt that she left partially unbuttoned and didn’t tuck into the waist of her jeans. A ratty pair of thrift store jeans covered her legs and led down to a pair of flat sneakers that were all the rage with high school soccer players. She always wore sneakers because, more often than she liked, she needed to run. They were following her again. She couldn’t see them, but she could feel them, their cell phones pinged

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her internal radar like incoming missiles. She had turned everything off. No cell phone. No laptop. No wireless signal for them to track. But they were like damn bloodhounds. They kept coming. And coming. “I need to have my manager sign off on this, okay? Just a second.” “Okay.” The cashier turned away to signal one of the casino managers and he walked over looking bored. So far, so good. Talia’s shoulder’s tensed even though the man peered at the cashier’s computer monitor like he’d done it a thousand times before. Maybe he had. Talia didn’t care. She’d learned where the sweet spot was through trial and error. Win too much, and they tended to notice. A few hundred dollars was nothing to them, as long as you didn’t do it every day. And she made a rule to never hit the same casino twice in a month. Hell, she rarely stayed in one town for more than two or three days anyway. “Okay. Make sure you get I.D.” The man in the black blazer entered his code into the computer and walked away. Thank God. “I just need your driver’s license, hon. Then we’ll be done.” One fake I.D. coming up. Talia reached into her back pocket and pulled out the forged identification she’d used on more than one occasion. Ashley Jones. Age 23 from Des Moines, Iowa. Tall, blond, country girl, no accent. Easy. “All righty. Here you go, honey.” “Thank you.” Talia reached for the cash, proud of the fact that her hands didn’t tremble. Four hundred and fifty-two dollars. That should last a few days. It was enough for bus fare, a cheap hotel room and some food. That was all she needed. Eat. Sleep. Move on. That was life since she’d been fourteen. And it sucked. And they still hunted for her. It had been seven years. They should have given up by now. In a hurry to get the hell out of there before anything could go wrong, she shoved the cash into the front

PARANORMAL

Luke and Alexa have been hiding with the Human Alliance in Chicago but something just isn’t right. The leader of the Alliance is someone Luke isn’t sure he can trust, Celestina, the Itaran Seer, is keeping secrets again, and Bran returned from parts unknown with a stranger he expects them to trust. Meanwhile, their enemies grow stronger. Droghan has a new weapon and a team of assassins on their tail. Queen Nelina is making deals with the Exiles to trade Timewalkers for Itaran soldiers, and the government’s intelligence teams within the Casper Project won’t leave them alone. As if that weren’t enough of a problem, a new threat emerges. The Timewalkers have ancient history with another alien race, a race of people who are none too pleased to learn of their existence. Time travel is a weapon too dangerous to ignore. Seems everyone either wants them dead, or wants to use them for their own ends. New powers manifest. New enemies unite to hunt for them. But the biggest threat of all will come from someone they never suspect, someone on the inside. Join the Human Alliance as they fight for Earth’s freedom in DEFIANCE. (Book 3) Coming Dec. 30! PreOrder Today at iBooks

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PARANORMAL pocket of her jeans and headed for the revolving door that led back out onto the street. All around her the humming vibration of the individual machines bombarded her senses with noise. Each unit was unique, the frequency and tone of every single one registered in her mind like the voices of a hundred different children. Similar, but identifiable should she choose to listen. She didn’t. The headache was coming now, like a loaded train that had finally gotten up to speed. Her vision glazed over for a moment and she ran into a bar stool, tripped and stumbled but caught herself on frame of the slot machine next to it. “You okay? Do you need help?” An elderly couple sat next to each other with a pile of cigarette butts in the ashtray between them. “She’s probably drunk, dear. You know how these young people are.” The woman, dressed in a beige track suit, had a lit cigarette hanging from lips painted a bright red. She didn’t even bother to look away from her game. “Leave her alone. I’m sure she’ll be fine.” “I have to get out of here.” Talia met the kind old man’s worried blue gaze and attempted to smile. “I’m fine. Just tripped.” “Okay, gal. If you say so.” He watched her as she righted herself and walked toward the door. Her head was still a bit on tilt, but she had learned to adapt, to focus her gaze on a single object and use it to keep herself upright. She did that now, and made it onto the street. The hum of machines was nearly non-existent out her. Fewer than a dozen cars were within range, and no more than a handful of other people were walking along the sidewalk with cell phones or laptops with them, most of them tourists who were either entering or exiting the tourist trap of a casino she’d just left. She drew a deep breath of fresh air and started up the sidewalk to the parking lot where she knew a bus would arrive within the next ten minutes. There was literally nothing else around.The casino was built in the middle of nowhere on Native American lands in South Dakota. The Black Hills were close by, as well as a handful of other casinos she could hit up before she left town. The bus arrived to take her back into town and she stared out the window and tried to fight back the headache that continued to swell at the base of her skull. This agony was the price she paid to survive and there 32

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was nothing she could do about it. The alternative was to never use her gift, and since she had never figured out how to turn it off, that wasn’t an option. Besides, every time she stopped moving, they found her…

M.L. Callahan

Paranormal Romance Author

.L. Callahan is a sci-fi fanatic and full time writer who had completed 9 novels and 5 novella length works under four pen names, but she is currently only using one. She started her first fictional story at age 11, spent high school writing terrible poetry, and began her first novel at 19 (but didn’t finish it until she was 30). Michele loves complex world building, twisting plot lines, and a unique premise. Callahan writes something brand new in the science fiction arena with character driven stories that read more like adventure books than hard science manuals. Her newest Sci-Fi series, ALLIANCE, is sci-fi adventure with a romantic sub-plot. She has also written hard science fiction, contemporary romance, historical romance and erotic romance. When she’s not writing or working on RomCon, she can be found lurking on Twitter or Facebook, or watching a sci-fi movie marathon for inspiration.

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Erotic

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vanessa VALE EXCERPT: DAHLIA, WILDFLOWERS OF MONTANA, BOOK 3

he interior of the stage was stifling as it waited for another passenger. I fanned myself with my hand, but the August heat was not diminished by the shade the ceiling provided. The only reprieve was the breeze that stirred once the horses began to move. It seemed I would ride to Carver Junction alone and that suited me fine. The leather flaps were rolled up and the wind cooled my damp skin. Sweat trickled down between my breasts. I undid a few buttons at the top of my blouse. Just that little bit was helpful. Next, I tugged at my long skirt and pulled it up over my knees. Ah, bliss! It was markedly cooler this way. Not very modest or the least bit ladylike, but no one could see me. We’d traveled less than a minute when the stage came to an abrupt halt. I would have slid onto the dirty floor if I hadn’t braced my foot against the facing bench seat. A man appeared in the window. “Miss Lenox. This is a surprise,” the voice said. With the sun behind him, his face was in shadow beneath the brim of his hat and I couldn’t tell who he was, but I knew that voice. The hair at the back of my neck rose at the dark rasp. I realized while I couldn’t see him, he most certainly could see me. I shoved the hem of my skirt back down and began fiddling with the open buttons at my neck in mortification. The door opened and he climbed inside, folding his large frame to keep from bumping his head. Removing his hat, he glanced at me, a wide grin on his face. “No need to right yourself for my benefit. I assure you, I will enjoy the trip so much more if you don’t.” My mouth fell open at the sight of Garrison Lee. What was he doing here? I asked him as much. He arched his brow at my less than conciliatory tone, and then settled himself across from me. The stage lumbered into motion. “I’m going to Carver Junction, the same as you,

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sugarplum,” he replied. “Yes, but why?” I huffed. While the very sight of him had my heart rate galloping faster than the horses pulling the stage, he was going to ruin everything. “To see a man about a horse.” I didn’t believe that reason for a minute. “Really?” “I’m taking the stage there and hopefully, if I am satisfied, riding the animal home. You look as if you doubt me.” I pursed my lips. “I do run a horse ranch.” His bent knees bumped into mine when the stage lurched in a deep rut. I shifted so we would not touch, under the guise of settling into our journey. He grinned at my action and I hated that that dratted dimple formed in his right cheek. How could the man be so handsome, so ruggedly appealing while I wanted to hurl myself across the small distance between us and strangle him? A crease ringed his hair where his hat had been, and I wanted to run my fingers through the dark locks to remove it. Then I’d run my hands down his cheeks to feel the rasp of his whiskers. He’d trained my body to respond to his very presence—his voice, even his manly scent. We’d kissed—oh, we’d most definitely kissed—and done a few other unseemly things in the few months he’d been calling on me. Just thinking of them made me feel warm all over. I also wanted to kick him in the shin for interfering in my plans. “You never mentioned you were making a trip when I saw you the other night,” he countered. I sniffed. “I didn’t see reason.” “I had my tongue in your mouth and my hand on your breast. That gives me reason, sugarplum.” “I am not your sugarplum,” I snapped. The breeze loosened a curl from its pins and I batted it off my face. “And your hand was not on my breast, it was on my

Erotic dress.” We’d been courting since the spring, even though we’d known each other since the schoolroom. He’d even recently asked me to marry him, which I’d quickly refused. He didn’t back away as I’d expected, instead continued his pursuit with more vim than before. Even with my negative response, he’d kissed me… and I’d let him. With every visit, with every quiet ride, he’d asked for my hand again and kissed me some more… and I’d let him again and again. He’d even placed his hands upon my person, but only over my dress. I may have made it seem to be of no importance, but it was everything. His touch, his attentions, his unwavering interest was what made me breathe. I just couldn’t let him know that. “We’re alone for the next two hours and you want to argue over hand placement?” He slid down the seat an inch or two, settling in, his legs widening, most likely trying to find comfort in the confined space. “I can think of much more enjoyable ways to pass the time.”

“We aren’t married, Garrison.” He sighed.“I have tried, on three occasions, to rectify that.You know good and well I won’t fuck you until we are wed. That does not mean we can’t play a bit.” I pursed my lips, but beneath my corset, my nipples tightened. “Why are you going to Carver Junction?” he repeated. “Are you meeting a man?” My eyes widened. I hadn’t considered what he thought my reason for travel was. “No.” Well, sort of. I was, in fact, going to play Poker and with every game to date, I had been the sole female. No one at home need know about my clandestine activities and neither did Garrison. “I am visiting my friend Opal. I will spend the night and return tomorrow.” “Why have I never heard of her?” “I don’t tell you everything, Garrison,” I snipped. “I am well aware of that,” he muttered. “That is why I am questioning you now. What’s her family name?” “Banks.” That was the first name that came into my head. He eyed me, but I was well versed in bluffing. Garrison, though, seemed to be the one man who could see even through that. He was also the only man I could ever love, but I’d never tell him. I’d never let it show either, for only then would he see the real me. Beneath all the bickering and banter I struggled. I hurt and once he discovered the truth, he wouldn’t want me any longer. I’d rather have him this way, grumpy, than not at all. I took a deep breath and tilted up my chin. “She will meet the stage?” I shrugged and tugged at my cuff. “Perhaps, but if not, it is a short walk to her home.” “Miss Trudy allowed you to travel unaccompanied?” Miss Trudy was one of my adoptive mothers. She, along with her sister Esther, had adopted me, along with seven other orphaned girls after the Great Chicago Fire. We’d moved west as a family and settled into ranch life.After owning a Chicago brothel, both women found solace and peace in the Montana Territory. I just wanted to escape the quiet, rural life for the big city and the winnings from my Poker playing would afford me that. Unfortunately, Garrison was putting a damper on that plan, in more ways than one. “Of course. It is only one stage stop.” He sighed deeply then ran his hand over his face. “You are the most vexing person I have ever met. I

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Erotic Erotic don’t know why you won’t just marry me already.” “I’ve known you since I was five years old. We’ve hated each other since that fateful moment when you shoved snow down the front of my coat,” I grumbled. He shrugged. “I wanted to get your attention.” “I was five. You were much older.” I pointed my finger at him. “You should have been nice.” “Nice? You put mud in my hot chocolate.” He frowned and then laughed at the memory. I remembered that. I’d done it because I’d wanted to claim his attention. Looking back, the snowball was the typical response of an eleven-year-old boy. “You dipped my braids in ink,” I told him, prompting him to his continued indiscretions. Our history had not been one of friendship, more like one-upmanship. It had been childish prank after childish prank, but things had changed as we got older. It was his turn to point. “You told Esther Marin I liked her. She was fifteen.” “So?” “I was twenty-two! I would never dally with a girl of that age.” I’d also been fifteen then, and he hadn’t dallied with me either. Only winked at me a time or two to get my goat. Now, though, I wasn’t a girl anymore and I longed for his attentions, even while I was pushing him away. “Well, she liked you,” I replied grumpily. “She’s cross eyed!” I humphed. “She needed all the help she could get.” “She’s married to Herbert Barnes and has two children. She’s not the one that needs help.” I narrowed my eyes at his barb. I was twenty-two and unwed. “You cut off the back of my skirt so my drawers showed! You ruined me for all the boys in town.” “That is a sight I will never forget. I liked the lace edging.” He winked. I groaned. I hadn’t been able to show my face in town for a month after that. “If it ruined you for all those boys, then good.” He nodded his head. “It did its job.” I frowned. “What is that supposed to mean?” He ignored my question, stroked his fingers over his jaw. “Yet through all of that, you kissed me in the coat room at the fall dance.” “You dared me.” I crossed my arms over my chest and his gaze dropped to my bosom.

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“And see where that got me,” he grumbled. “A woman who refuses to marry me.” We were quiet for a few minutes as he watched the prairie through the open window. I stared at his profile—his strong brow, square jaw and wayward dark hair. He was a much better view. “Where did you meet Opal?” he asked. He was like a dog with a bone, not giving up. Either we needed to arrive at Carver Junction or I needed to turn his thoughts elsewhere. I was a proficient liar, but not good enough to withstand his scrutiny for the remainder of the journey. “You’re right. Why bicker when we could be doing much more enjoyable things?” That got his attention. He whipped his head around to look at me. “You told me you wouldn’t… um, well—” I glanced down at my lap, then back at him through lowered lashes. “You said you wouldn’t fuck me unless we were wed.” By uttering that crude word, I’d certainly turned his thoughts away from the non-existent Opal Banks. I’d never said it before and the surprise of it showed on his face.That quickly changed. His gaze turned dark and roved over my body. He licked his lips and his eyelids lowered. There was something almost… hot about that look. “That’s right,” he replied, his voice much deeper than just a few minutes ago. “What exactly would you do to me?”

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EXCERPT FROM THEIR CHRISTMAS BRIDE:

he stage was cold. Bitterly cold. The leather flaps covering the windows did nothing to keep the frigid December air from seeping in, and into my bones. I shivered beneath my heavy coat, boots, gloves and thick scarf, but this was the Montana Territory and there would be no reprieve until April. No other passengers joined me on the ride to Carver Junction, but that was no surprise for it was Christmas morning. The stage driver himself admitted he was only making the journey to return to his home in Billings to be with his family. He was as desperate to get home as I was desperate to get away. While I didn’t begrudge the Arnolds for selling the boarding house where I’d worked for the past two years, their decision to move south to Denver to be near their grown son and family had been unexpected. A letter bearing news of a second grandchild on the way has spurred them to sell the house to a young couple and move before the longest days of winter. I was out of a job and there was nothing in the small town for me to do. There were no needs for a seamstress, for Mrs. Carnes did that. I couldn’t be a laundress for I had no place to live, nor supplies. Besides, Mrs. Adams took in wash for others. Miss Richmond was the school teacher. The only other role for an unmarried woman

without family was working at Rose’s. That was not a choice. But when Carlton Matthews approached me and forced my hand toward marriage, working in the town’s brothel looked a rather appealing alternative. When he’d threatened me with slander or worse if I did not wed him, I fled, boarding the cold, rough stage in the pre-dawn light. As a gust of wind made the leather window covering flap noisily against the wood, I thought longingly of the men from the Bridgewater Ranch—Mr. Quinn and Mr. Porter specifically. They filled my thoughts, but any interest they may have had in me would have been lost after hearing the lies Mr. Matthews intended to spread. They were too honorable to be with a woman who had supposedly bedded Mr. Matthews only to steal from him. Mr. Quinn and Mr. Porter had been very attentive when I was in their presence, but they’d done nothing untoward, and neither of them had officially declared his intentions. Perhaps it had all been wishful thinking on my part, and I had put too much hope where none laid. Either one of the men would have been a worthy catch, but it did not matter any longer. I crossed my arms over my chest and hunched my shoulders, trying to keep warm as the stage rolled over a rut in the frozen path. Perhaps it was for the best I left town, for what man would want a woman who had lustful thoughts, even impure actions, about two different men? Their handsome faces had taken turns filling my mind as I touched myself at the apex of my thighs in the privacy and darkness of my attic bedroom. It had been the unknown things they could do with their big hands—used to gentle a skittish horse or carry heavy sacks of grain—that had made my back arch off my bed as I succumbed night after night to my body’s pleasure. I groaned and grabbed my small bag, pulling out the biscuits I’d packed. They were dry and stuck in my throat, clogging there with tears. I lusted after not one man, but two. I eagerly sought the attentions of not one man, but two. I longed for not one man, but two. I was a...a hussy. I sighed, my breath coming out in little white puffs, knowing the men would remain on the Bridgewater Ranch while I sought work in a larger town such as Miles City or Billings, most assuredly turning their attentions to other women in town, women who were virtuous and did not dream of two men. I would be quickly forgotten. No, not forgotten, for what Mr. DECEMBER 2015

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Erotic Erotic Matthews would tell the town would spread like a July wildfire and either one of them would be thankful they’d been saved from a woman such as I. Mr. Quinn and Mr. Porter would each have a wife to warm their beds and direct their carnal attentions while I, from whatever town I found work, would continue to think of them in my late night fantasies. It was wrong, I knew, to touch myself intimately and inappropriately, but I couldn’t stop. I wouldn’t stop, for that short moment of bliss wiped away the hardship, the loneliness and the fear. Even now, as I pressed my head back against the hard wood of the seat and shut my eyes, my core clenched and pulsed. My body didn’t care that I was painted a loose woman and a thief. It knew what it wanted. When the stage pulled to a rough stop in Carver Junction and not just Mr. Quinn met me, but Mr. Porter and a man with a star pinned to his heavy winter coat, I knew that Mr. Matthews had followed through with his more extreme threats. I’d hoped Christmas would at least delay the rumors, but that did not seem to be the case. Usually my heart skipped a beat at the sight of either Bridgewater man and this time was no different, but the reason for it had changed. It wasn’t eagerness or feminine interest. It was trepidation and worry, for their faces were grim beneath their hats. I swallowed down my fear at being hauled off to spend Christmas in jail. At least I would be warm.

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Vanessa Vale

Erotic Romance Author

o date, Vanessa has sixteen #1 Amazon bestselling erotic historical westerns set in Montana. Her inspiration comes from a not-so-secret love of cowboys. Prior to writing and RomCon, her work experience includes from online training manager for Ford Motor Company as well as book cover designer which made her degree in graphic design pay off. She teaches a mean karate class and enjoys discovering new meals using her pressure cooker. She lives in Colorado with her husband and two boys. If one pen name wasn’t enough, she also writes award winning romantic comedy as Jennifer Zane. and also as Vanessa Dare.

ATTENDING AUTHORS AS OF 12/1/15 Sinclair, Ava Barker, Freya Rivera, Roxie Rowan, Cate Szarek, C.A. Prince, Michel James, Amelia McKenzie, Misha Thompson, LaVerne Eidem, Michelle Sullivan, Sandy Joachim, Jean Riggs, Teri Lederman, Evelyn Hawks, Laura Gruber, Pauline Howard, Michelle Tuhart, Marie McDaniel, Sylvia Dietz, Misty Roberts, Kym Kennedy, Shannon Roland, Lee Benjamin, Meg Pinard, C.J. McKissack, Riley McCallan, Trish Hamilton, Sharon

Clark, Kathy Grahl, Debby Jane, Kathryn Covert, Elise Bush,Vicki-Ann McKitrick, Stacy MacDonald, Tara C. Quinlan, Bria Greene, Grace Kelly, Lucy - Rae Brewer Ballew, Diana Etherton, Tameri/Tameri Tiara Shannan, Krystal/Emma Rowan Moya Block, Caryn Michaels, A.B. Naigle, Nancy Wheeler, Kathy L. Platt, Angela L Lyn, Lori Hardt, Helen Malori, Reana Bell, Ophelia Vale,Vanessa Callahan, ML Woolf, Cynthia Docter, KL Gallagher, Maggie Mae ...and more! DECEMBER 2015

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Contemporary

DECEMBER 2015 MAY/JUNE 2014

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bella BRYCE AN EXCERPT FROM UNFAILING LOVE

na joined her right hand to rest atop her other so now both arms were gently attached to Brayden. “We never did get to chat about New

York.” “We did not.” His formal brown shoes and Ana’s cream coloured kitten heels clacked in unison along the stone pavement. “May I remind you that I’ve put your former antics of acquisition and such on hold? That includes business trips.” “This isn’t acquisition. It’s professional development.” Ana already knew she wasn’t going to convince Brayden. He was in a very transitional stage with Tweed and didn’t want any business trips until the direction of the company under new ownership was defined. “I can give you a session in professional development, but you will find it difficult to sit down afterward,” he said without a hint of jest. Ana was highly amused by Brayden’s suggestion. “Whilst we’re on the subject, I’m due to be in the office for a full day of meetings one day soon. I will let you know when it’s been scheduled.” Since buying Tweed, Brayden worked part-time hours from his study at Waldorf and having daily Skype calls with his temporary transition team. He was also getting closer to advertising a position for the Operations Manager so that he could step back and be the owner. Brayden would be far more involved than the previous one but eventually he wouldn’t be having the kind of daily interaction that was necessary for the time being. “I don’t know if you being in the office for more than a few minutes is a good idea.” “Why is that?” She couldn’t stop smiling. “I won’t be able to concentrate if you’re sitting just down the corridor from me.” She paused on the stone path and turned inward, avoiding eye contact as she looked down. “Anabelle Greyson, I declare you are blushing.” He smiled slowly and deliberately as he stopped walking. In response, she blushed even more as she looked at a 46

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nearby plant with immediate interest. Brayden couldn’t hold back a hearty laugh. “You are,” he cooed. “Stop!” She laughed and covered one cheek with her palm. “Now you’ve gone all shy,” he said, pulling her toward him, gently. Ana’s kitten heels moved reluctantly as she tried to keep a playful distance. “Yes, and it’s your fault, Mr. James. She laughed through the words and tugged gently on their intertwined hands.A photographer’s view of them from the distance would have been absolute gold; the setting of the formal garden was ideal and their equally formal wardrobe made those smitten moments of genuine, flirtatious laughter even more striking. “I take full responsibility,” Brayden stepped closer, since he couldn’t succeed in pulling Ana to him. “As you should.” She was unable to stop herself from giggling with delight. “You’re making me blush!” “I can see that, and it’s absolutely delightful.” Brayden loved seeing her in such a state. “You can come into the office for our meeting but then you have to leave. You can’t sit in Hamish’s old office for the entire day.” She was still wearing a very sweet, very wide smile. “Oh!” He couldn’t keep from smiling. Watching her squirm proved to be highly amusing. “That’s the word on the matter, is it?” “Yes.” “I may need to come by your office then, to make sure you’re behaving.” He straightened his expression. “Perhaps I will stand behind your chair and supervise.” “You mustn’t,” she pleaded, adorably. “Or have you kneel down so I can measure the length of your skirt just like when you were at school.” “Brayden!” she exclaimed, looking back toward the house as if he’d just revealed an incredulous secret. Ana was absolutely positive she felt everything from her navel down to her toes go completely hot with a rash-

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Bella Bryce

Contemporary Romance Author

like intensity. It wasn’t numb though because she could very much feel heartbeats in places she didn’t think thumping should occur, or, could occur. Like her thigh, and her ankle. Where was it coming from? Why did it feel like a strong wind just blew over her? Probably because she was in love. “I’ve been a perfectly wellbehaved professional, for the last seven years.Then you come along, buy the company.” “Smack your bottom,” Brayden finished her sentence. “That too.” A smile drew wide across her lips. “Very well, Mr. James. Have it your way. Come to the office and just see how bad for business you really are.” “You may well regret those words,” Brayden said as he touched his nose to hers. “I probably will.”

ella Bryce is a British author of niche market adult fiction novels in the smacky bottoms genre. She has been with Blushing Books since 2013 after relocating from England to the US, and her books always have three important aspects: a complete world for readers to escape to, strong characterisation, and stories that cater to those who like a deep and detailed storyline with their domestic discipline. Bella’s stories all have a direction or a guiding inclination of some kind and they will challenge readers to look at themselves and reflect on their own behaviour, thoughts or belief systems. She always includes personal circumstances and memories in her writing, but those that are fact from fiction shall remain undisclosed.

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chris KENISTON EXCERPT: ALOHA TEXAS

“

The man might as well be living on Mars.” Kara Lynn O’Conner slammed the receiver down— hard. From the bookshelves across the room, Maggie O’Conner looked up over the rim of her reading glasses. “Why should Nicholas Harper be any different from every other man?” It took Kara a few moments to process her aunt’s comment. “Because this is the twenty-first century and everyone uses email.” “Honey, communication devices have never been the problem. Bell invented the telephone in 1876.” “He’s not returning calls, either.” She stared at the phone, willing it to ring. Six months ago Patty Ann was just another client with a life expectancy of forty-five more years, give or take a few. Today the odds of her making it another forty-five hours were slim. Two years ago, Kara had drawn up Patty Ann’s will not thinking it would be needed anytime soon. Two months ago, Patty Ann had asked Kara to contact Nicholas Harper, and soon. It had taken almost that long to track the man down. Today, Kara hoped she wasn’t going to have to fly all the way to Hawaii just to talk to him. “I’ve emailed the man, used snail mail, both certified and regular, called his office, and his cell phone. I’ve tried everything short of carrier pigeon.” Kara glanced at her watch. “Five fifteen.” “Give him a chance. Didn’t that man you spoke to at his office promise he’d have Mr. Harper return the call?” She nodded and looked at her watch. Again. *** “Talk about buns in the sun.” Leaning over, Nick heard the throaty chuckles carry from the back of the scuba boat as clearly as if the two women had sauntered up and cooed in his ear. Not the first time he’d heard the name of the popular Kona bakery taken in vain. He was sorely tempted to

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turn and flash the vacationing housewives a full wattage smile and see how fast they’d scurry into their rabbit hole. “All right, Pam, you’re next,” he called to the shorter of the two friends, as he pointed to where she needed to sit and strap on her tank. The sudden flush in her cheeks convinced him that under the wetsuit the petite redhead was most likely blushing clear down to her toes. Yeah, he’d heard her all right. And recognizing the signs of bored women having harmless fun, he cut the lady some slack and offered his friendly put-’em-at-ease grin. Not that he’d have minded laying on the charm full force and showing her a good time Hawaiian style. But he could read most women like a book, and this one had bark and no bite written all over her. If he’d made anything even close to a suggestive response, she’d probably fall off the boat from the shock of it, hit her head-on the way down, and then sue him before reaching the mainland. Nope, a simple smile was all he could afford. “Attagirl.” The laughing friend gave Pam a thumbs-up. “This is my first real ocean dive. Until now I’ve done all my diving in pools and lakes back home.” Pam lowered herself onto the bench beside him and slid her arms into the BCD—buoyancy control device—before offering him a nervous smile. “It was my friend’s idea to come to Hawaii.” “We’re glad you came.” He flashed another one of his comfort grins.“Follow your dive guide, Jonathan, and relax and take it easy. You don’t want to get all worked up before you even leave the boat, or you’ll eat up all your air and miss out.” “Relax. Right.” The woman took a deep breath, pushed to her feet, made her way to the back of the boat, secured her mask and regulator, and took a long step into the water. As nervous as she was, he was betting she’d be back on the boat long before her time was up. “My turn, Captain Nick.” The taller blonde sidled up beside him and flashed a broad smile. Close up, he could see this one wasn’t quite so harmless. Her bleached blonde hair told him she

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thought she could find her youth at the bottom of a bottle of L’Oréal, and if he were a betting man, he’d guess the bulls weren’t the only thing ridden hard at the rodeo. Yep, as good as he was, and he was very good, she could probably teach him a thing or two. For all of ten seconds he seriously considered the possibility, until the price of his insurance premiums pushed to the forefront of his thoughts. Nope. No more mixing business with pleasure. Not if he wanted to keep his boat and his business afloat. This was one bored housewife who would have to find her vacation entertainment elsewhere. Once all eight divers were over the side and off in search of underwater fun, all he had to do was chop a pineapple for between-dive snacks, fix the head, and if time permitted, check his email. Before he could get started on the plumbing problem, his phone sounded off. He glanced at the caller ID: O’Conner and O’Conner. No doubt the law firm hired by the broad from New York who had accused him of groping her during a dive. Thanks to her stupid lawsuit he’d had to ease back on the diving and stick to driving the boat. He hit Ignore and slipped the phone into his pocket. It was pretty ironic that the real reason Big Island Dive got sued was

because he did not act on her advances. Nearly two hours later, the head unstopped, the divers fed, hydrated, and back in the water for their second swim, Nick’s phone rang again. Big Island Dive Shop. He swiped at the phone. “Yeah?” Billy, his partner and best friend, nearly groaned into the phone. “What did you do this time?” “Whatever it is, it wasn’t me.” Nick had first met Billy during training with Uncle Sam in Panama City. In the navy. Billy grew up on the Big Island. Through the years Nick had gotten to know Billy’s hometown almost as well as his own. So much so that, when it came time for Nick to go home, instead of catching a flight to landlocked West Texas, he’d boarded a plane bound for Honolulu connecting to Kona. Six months later, Billy found himself on the wrong end of an explosion and an early discharge. Not long after that, Nick and Billy were the new owners of the forty-sixfoot Kona Queen and the Big Island Dive Shop. “Some lawyer’s been calling every hour on the hour. I said you wouldn’t be back till after one at the earliest, but they keep calling anyway. What did you do?” “Why do you assume I did anything?” “You’re kidding, right?” Okay, maybe he didn’t want to go there. With the exception of the lawsuit based on false accusations, most of his troubles came from women he knew well, in the biblical sense. “Look, man,” Billy started on a sigh, “I don’t care what you do on your own time. Really I don’t, but for my own protection I may have to have every haole you sleep with sign a release form first.” Nick glanced aft at the same moment Pam sprang up out of the water, ripped off her mask, and flailed about gasping for air. Dropping his phone, he leaped across the deck and dove into the water just as she sank out of sight. Shit. Where the fuck was her dive buddy? Where was Jonathan?

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