Guest Tierney O'Malley ~ Crazy Questions and New Release!

I am very excited that author Tierney O'Malley has stopped by my blog today to celebrate her new release, Passionate Bid! She is treating us to an excerpt, and also agreed to answer a few questions for us:

Chloe’s Crazy Questions

Not content to just deliver what you may already know about these writers I have on here, I delve in DEEP to their inner most psyche and massage it, until I get a psychological profile Criminal Minds would be proud of….!  

The world is ending in an hour, what do you do, and who do you do it with?

TO'M: I will definitely grab my laptop, open my book covers folder then stare at the gorgeous models. Okay, seriously now. I’ll spend my last hour with my children and husband. Maybe look at our past, present, and the things that we can do in the future if the world is not ending. I will tell them how our memories and dreams have kept me stronger every day.

If you were a cheese, what flavor would you be, and why?

TO'M: I want to say cheddar because it is my favorite. In fact, it’s the only kind of cheese that I like to eat. But my husband prefers Swiss cheese. So I’ll say swiss.

Five things you can take to a desert island, what would they be?

TO'M: Hmm…my husband is not a thing. So, I can’t add him, right? All right. Five things—a dozen pencils (sharpened), notebooks, one liter of water, a dozen apples, and a picture of my husband and kids.

Finish this sentence: Love is like….

TO'M: a plant. You have to nurture it to grow, to bloom. If neglected. It’ll wilt and eventually die.

Finish this sentence: My stories are like….

TO'M: sunshine on a cloudy. It gives you warmth and a happy feeling. ;)

Favorite action figure or action hero and why? 

TO'M: Wolverine. Man, he’s got the abs and the claws. Can’t beat those. :D

Mata Hari or Mother Teresa? 

TO'M: Hmm…Mata Hari was one beautiful dancer. Mother Teresa was beautiful inside and out. Was it proven that Mata Hari indeed worked as a spy? She was executed. Mother Teresa received a Nobel Peace Price. Okay, I’ll pick Mother Teresa.

Tierney O'Malley's New Release Passionate Bid Out today.

Blurb for Passionate Bid

The destiny of a man

Drop dead gorgeous veterinarian, Julian Ravenwood, has made a mistake--slept with a young virgin, Joanie Saint Claire. Forced to do the right thing, he marries her then leaves while she's still in her wedding gown.

The fate of a young woman

Joanie finds herself facing an altered life after her one night with Julian. She's left alone with a little bug who means the world to her.

The spirit of an abandoned wife

An opportunity to solve Joanie's problems comes when Julian shows up to serve her. She agrees to sign the divorce papers on one condition--he pay her one hundred thousand dollars.

The unexpected love

Julian can't believe it. His scrawny bride has grown into a seductive, attractive, and feisty woman he can't stop lusting after. And she has kept a secret that rocks his world.

Excerpt for Passionate Bid:

It was hard to explain how signing the divorce papers turned into a wonderful picnic in the woods. But whatever it was that changed things between her and Julian would end soon. What came easy would disappear in a hurry. This was momentary. Julian and she were fused together by years of regret and guilt and perhaps pity. And Sam. She should put an end to all of this. Nothing good would come out by letting Julian get too close to her.

The floorboard squeaked behind her. She didn’t turn around. She knew it was Julian. Like in the past, she always knew when he was around, even when he thought she didn’t.

“The pancake is out.” He wrapped his arms around her waist and flattened his hands on her belly.

Joanie was aware of Julian’s erection pressed intimately just above the rise of her butt. Desire quickly consumed her as he pressed hard against her. Dear God, why? After all these years, the pain and tears, she still wanted him. All of him. “She had a great time.”

“Did you have a great time?”

It was the best time of her life. One that she wouldn’t forget. “Yes. Thank you for suggesting a picnic.”

“We could do it again tomorrow and the next day. We’ll do it every day while I am here.”

While you’re here.

Julian’s hand tightened around her waist as he began to nuzzle her neck. “I love your smell.”

“Julian, why are you doing this?”

“I don’t know. All I know is I want you.”

God, she wanted to hear him say those words for years. This—with Julian—was a dream coming true. She should be happy. But what she felt right now was the opposite. “I think we need to stop this.”

“I think we should continue.”

“I’m not sure if this is wise.”

“I don’t see anything wrong with us like this. You’re my wife and I want you Joanie, badly.”

And as God as her witness, she wanted him, too. Julian’s mouth found the sensitive spot behind her ear and licked it. “Julian…please…”

“Let me love you, Joanie. Let me show you what we could have had if circumstances were totally different.”

Joanie didn’t get a chance to answer. Julian pulled the sash tying her robe and slid his hand inside to cup her breasts. The heat of his palm quickly spread around her body. Gently he massaged her breast until her nipple hardened and pushed against his palm. His mouth was hot against her skin.

Julian was breathing hard. She could feel the quick rise and fall of his chest against her back. With her good sense screaming no, she tilted her neck to the side, giving him more access to the column of her neck.

Julian removed his robe and let it drop on the floor. From behind, Julian slowly moved his hands around her to cover both of her heavy breasts. Then he started kneading them with pressure, sending delicious feelings cascading down to her warm pussy and all the way to the very tips of her toes.

“I want to touch you.” She tried to turn around but Julian stopped her.

“In time. Close your eyes, Joanie.”

“This is wicked.”

“Yes. I know.”

Buy link for Passionate Bid

About the Author

Tierney O’Malley began writing her first eBook two years ago when her youngest was in fifth grade. Her publishers are Cobblestone Press, eXtasy Books, and Red Rose Publishing. Today there are eBooks available for purchase on her list. Ms. O’Malley lives with her husband and children in Washington, and is currently working on a new novel and sets of series she recently sold.

Ms. O’Malley is always excited to hear from readers. To leave your comments, questions or suggestions, you can reach her at http://tierneyomalley.com

 

Guest Jeanne St James -"Banged Up Excerpt"!

Guest Jeanne St James shares a hot teaser

from her book, Banged Up, today!

Two scarred souls: one physically, one mentally. Both on the mend, hiding from their pasts…

Buy Link

Blurb for Banged Up

Mace Walker can’t wait to get home.
Being buried deep undercover for the past two years, on the most complex case of his career, has torn him down physically and mentally. Now the FBI agent has come home to recover after having his leg badly injured from a gunshot wound. Arriving home late one night, his relief is short-lived as he’s faced with a stranger pointing a gun to his head, acting like he is the one who doesn’t belong there!
Colby Parks, a biochemist at the local university, had come to town a year earlier to escape an abusive relationship. She vows never to put herself in that situation again.
Then the perfect opportunity comes along: house-sitting for Mace’s sister while making the house she purchased habitable. But she couldn’t anticipate this big snag: the one wearing the tight Levi’s and worn leather jacket, looking like he had just escaped prison.
Being forced to share a house creates sparks between them in more ways than one. However, things take a turn when their pasts catch up to them, threatening to pull them apart forever.

Chapter One

Home.
Relief flooded over Mace Walker as he twisted the key in the lock, gave the front door a shove, and stepped over the threshold. Finally home. About time.
Time to heal.
The foyer was dark, but he didn’t need to hit the light switch. Even being gone for as long as he had been, he still knew the house well enough. He made his way to the stairs and set down his bags. Those two small duffels didn’t hold much evidence of his life for the past couple of years. Just some toiletries and a few basic items of clothing.
As he straightened, the foyer lit up, blinding him for a second. He blinked when a young voice rang out from the top of the steps. “Hold it right there! Put your arms up and back away from the stairs.”
What the fuck?
Mace had expected to see his sister bounding down the stairway of his two-story colonial, excited after not seeing her brother for the past two years. Actually, more like one year, eleven months and fifteen days. Not that he was counting. But instead, he stared up into the deadly eye of a Glock. And from his viewpoint it looked like a model 23, a .40 caliber. A compact but still a decent sized gun in a very small, very uneasy hand. Instantly, the hairs on the back of his neck rose.
Damn. He’d dealt with crime bosses and their flunkies--from drug to porno rings--and had managed to survive. Now he was going to be killed by some measly punk he surprised while burglarizing his house? The cruel irony made him want to laugh. Instead, he did as he was instructed. With caution, he raised his hands above his head before stepping back toward the middle of the foyer. He avoided standing directly under the light, trying to get a better view of the top of the steps. But he didn’t have much success; the upstairs hallway and the upper section of the stairway were hidden in shadows.
If he played his cards right, this little situation would be under his control in no time at all. He just had to keep the kid calm and make the skinny punk believe he was the one in command. From experience, Mace knew the Glock didn’t have a conventional safety. All the kid had to do was pull the trigger and pull it again and again until all the rounds in the clip emptied into Mace’s body. And from what he could see in the limited light, the kid’s fingers were twitching from nervousness.
Not a good sign.
Where had a young punk gotten an expensive handgun like that? It certainly hadn’t been in the house. And if it had been, it would have been locked up in the gun safe.
If only he could see the boy’s face. He needed to see the eyes. Without seeing his eyes, Mace couldn’t even begin to predict what the kid would do.
“Don’t you dare move or I’ll blow your face off!” The kid’s voice raised an octave, making him sound more and more like ... a girl.
Tension ran through Mace’s body as the person started down the steps. At first he could see bare toes, a slim calf, then another. His gaze flicked to the gun, before returning to the shapely naked thighs which couldn’t belong to a kid--no way. Especially not a boy. Those smooth legs definitely belonged to a woman--and he couldn’t wait to see the rest of her. So far, the view almost made it worth being held at gunpoint. Almost.
He was disappointed when an oversized T-shirt--shit, was that Marmaduke on it?--blocked his view of creamy flesh. His arms were tired, his leg throbbed painfully, and his patience was wearing thin. But he still wasn’t going to move, since he had no idea who this woman descending the stairs was. His curiosity piqued when she stepped down into the light, which highlighted her long, curly red hair and made her wide, green--glaring--eyes sparkle and snap.
A twitch shot through his lower stomach and landed in his groin. Fear or pain didn’t make him suck in his breath. It was her unrestricted breasts bobbing under the cotton shirt with each step she took. Her nipples stood out like two beacons under the worn cotton. Jesus.
He had to clear his throat twice before he could ask her, “Are you robbing this house, dressed like that?”

5 diamonds at Got Erotic Romance!

"Banged Up is an action packed, erotic adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. The sexual tension starts building as soon as Mace and Colby lay eyes on one another, and their relationship just gets hotter and hotter until their passion explodes. The dialog is fast paced and evocative, leading their relationship along at a fast pace. There’s humor, drama, tragedy, and some really hot sex. This book has something for everyone and will keep you guessing about the ending right up to the last page. I couldn’t put it away and I plan to read it again. I definitely give this book 5 Heats and recommend you read it as soon as possible."

4.5 hearts at The Romance Studio!

"Ms. Jeanne St. James has written a great book full of explicit sexuality and overloaded with suspense. There was more than one problem facing these main characters and St. James has integrated the storyline into love/hate/fear in such a way that it was impossible to put down. These two people were both full of past problems which continued to invade their presents and futures. Again, the author has presented the conflicts, as well as the sexual exploitations, in a great way.
There were other characters that made the story complete. They enhanced the plot and kept the story fast-paced and interesting. The actions, both sexual as well as the suspense-filled pursuits were fascinating. This book is definitely not for the faint of heart. I recommend that you read this book. You will enjoy it, I’m sure."

4 blue ribbons at Romance Junkies!

"Jeanne St. James has written an exceptional high action drama. From page one you will be captured by BANGED UP.The dialogue is superbly written and the plot allows you to be kept on the edge of your seat. For those seeking an action packed thriller, I highly recommend to add this title to your must read list."

4 whips at Bella's Erotic Reviews!

"Jeanne St. James writes an exciting action packed romance drawing the reader in from page one and never letting go. I was hooked from the first page of this story. I loved Colby and her fierceness and how she overcame all that was done to her and of course Mace the brooding Alpha Male was a great character to. Even with all his macho pride he still had his doubts and insecurities. The bond that formed between these two was a beautiful thing to read. Both Mace and Colby must learn to trust each other before time runs out and it is to late. Full of action and hot romance Banged Up is a page-turner that is not to be missed."

4 heart review at Night Owl Romance Book Reviews!

"Banged up is an entertaining read..."

"... an enjoyable story."

Thanks Jeanne for sharing your work with us today. 

You can visit Jeanne St James:

http://www.jeannestjames.com/

Guest Jenika Snow Interview and Excerpt

Jenika Snow came to my attention visiting a loop, when I was totally sucked in by her excerpt for The Chosen: A Tale of the Blood Breed. She's graciously agreed to be here today to be interviewed and share more of her hot release. Thanks for being here Jenika!

    

• Can you tell me what genres you write in, and what inspired you to write?

JS: I write erotica, although I am slowly working on a YA novel. I had always liked writing, ever since I could remember. I wrote as a child, silly little stories that probably weren’t the greatest, but they kept me busy.

It wasn’t until many years later that I started to really read romance novels. Christine Feehan was the very first paranormal romance author that I read, and because of her writing I became hooked.

Although I read a lot, I wanted to write a story but didn’t have the guts to actually go through with it. It was actually my husband that gave me that extra little nudge in the writing direction. I really do owe it to him, because without his support and encouragement to go through with it, I wouldn’t have ever written an actual story.

• Can you tell me something your readers may not know about you, something that they would be surprised to learn? Maybe a secret skill or fact?

JS: I actually have OCD, which is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder for anyone who isn’t familiar with it. I first started noticing something was “different” when I was about thirteen years old. I would have to do “certain” things like wash my hands a certain number of times. I didn’t know anything was wrong with me, I just thought what I did was what everyone did.

It wasn’t until I moved during my senior year of high school that it got really bad. I then saw a documentary on TV about OCD and everything seemed to click into place for me. I knew that was what I had and so I went and spoke with someone, and was diagnosed with it when I was seventeen.

I have remissions of it. I can go years without having any kind of problems, but during stressful times it will flare up. Thankfully I have been symptom free (or what is symptom free for me) for about six months now. Like I said, it comes and goes. It is a difficult disorder to have, but I have gotten through it and have supportive people in my life.

• What was the inspiration for your most recent, or favorite hero in your writing?

JS: Well, my most recent hero is from The Chosen: A Tale of the Blood Breed. His name is Aleksei and he is the king of a race of immortal vampires known as the Blood Breed.

If I wasn’t already married (let me add to the greatest man in the world…LOL) then Aleksei would have been my first choice. Not only does Aleksei have a gentle side, but he is also a warrior with immense strength and power. He is truly an alpha, and well, physically I think that speaks for itself. He is loyal to anyone that is lucky enough to call a friend.

Bring all of that together and you have one hell of a man.

• What was the inspiration for your most recent, or favorite hero in your writing?

JS: Well, my most recent hero is from The Chosen: A Tale of the Blood Breed. His name is Aleksei and he is the king of a race of immortal vampires known as the Blood Breed.

If I wasn’t already married (let me add to the greatest man in the world…LOL) then Aleksei would have been my first choice. Not only does Aleksei have a gentle side, but he is also a warrior with immense strength and power. He is truly an alpha, and well, physically I think that speaks for itself. He is loyal to anyone that is lucky enough to call a friend.

Bring all of that together and you have one hell of a man.

• What’s his best feature or characteristic? Why would readers love him too?

JS: What wouldn’t a reader love about him…hahaha. Really though, I have to say the feature on him that is the most striking would have to be his black hair and striking blue eyes. Top that with his wicked sword tattoo on his back and you have one hell of a…package!!

• Who does your hero resemble most, if he was a movie star or someone we know, and how is most likely to be dressed in your book?

JS: I would have to say when I created Aleksei I had Jonathan Rhys Meyers (from Showtime’s The Tudors) pictured. Add his devilish good looks with a rockin’ body and bingo…you have Aleksei.

Aleksei is most likely to be dressed in loose fitting jeans and a simple tee. He is pretty easy going and not so much high maintenance.

• What would be his approach to a woman? Like a pick up line or move to seduce her?

JS: Aleksei would have no pick up line. All he would have to do was drop his eyes to half mast, and give a little tilt of his lips and the girls would dropping their panties.

• Can you describe a little bit for us a hot love scene you’ve written? Or one you’ve read recently?

JS: Actually, I have a free read available on my website. Below is a little sample.

I closed my eyes and moaned as he ran his finger along the edge of my breast, just teasing—always teasing. His hands smoothed down my ribs before moving to my hips and pulling me down the bed. I spread my legs to accommodate his big body, his erection pressing against my clit and causing me to gasp. It was hot and hard, and I wanted it inside of me so badly.
“Do you want me here?”

He ran his finger down my slit to rest at the entrance of my core, his finger dipping in and gathering my moisture before moving his finger up. He circled my clit, stiffening it up more and causing me to bite my lip in pleasure. “I want you everywhere.”

• What are you working on now, and where can readers find you on the web?

JS: I am currently working on the second story in the Blood Breed series. The working title is Blood Rush and it is Adrik and Kayla’s story. I introduced the Lyken’s in the first story, but in the second one I will really be delving into their world more. There are a lot of twists and turns that will be happening and I hope it raises some eyebrows.  Readers can find me at http://www.JenikaSnow.com  

Blurb: Aleksei is feared by all who cross paths with him. He is the great ruler of a race of immortal vampires known as the Blood Breed. Setting eyes on Lana for the first time sets off unquenchable desires that Aleksei has never experienced in his existence. One night out leads to a destiny that will forever change Lana's life. It was an immediate attraction to Aleskei, feelings so strong they left her body on fire, so intense she didn’t know if it was real. When an age old prophecy brings Lana and Aleksei together, nothing can stop the unbreakable bond that weaves itself into their lives, and when an unseen predator threatens to take away Lana, Aleksei will stop at nothing to destroy all who stand in his way from making Lana his.

ADULT EXCERPT

“Take them off of me.” Her eyes grew wide at the growl that came out of him. He gripped the top of her panties and ripped them clean off of her, tossing the fabric to the ground. She would be lying if she said his aggressiveness didn’t turn her on.

 “You smell so fucking delicious. I can’t stand it.”

His voice became deeper, and before she realized what he was doing, he was between her thighs with his hands holding them open. His breath brushed across her exposed folds, and she let her thighs open wider of their own accord. The hot touch of his tongue along her engorged clit caused her to throw her head back and moan. It felt so good, so much better than when she touched herself. He ran his tongue in a circular motion, sucking her clit into the hot depths of his mouth before running over it again. He nibbled and teased her labia, twirling his tongue along the opening of her pussy and running it back up to torment her clit. She had her legs as wide as they would go, but even that didn’t feel wide enough. His tongue continued its exploration of her clit as one of his fingers ran in a slow motion around her pussy hole. She wanted, no, needed him to plunge it inside, to end the exquisite torture he was giving her. It was never ending, the pleasure he brought to her body with just a flick of his tongue and a tease of his finger.

He left no part of her untouched, swiping his tongue over her lips, around her center, and making his way back up to her clit. Moans and groans came from his mouth, vibrating off her clit and causing her orgasm to come closer to the surface. His hands had a tight clasp on her thighs, his big body wedged between them. He lifted one of her legs over the back the couch, opening her up even further to his wicked tongue. He continued to suck at her clit, and the tight coil of her climax moved through her body. Her sex blossomed like a dam opening up and getting ready to spill forth. Her wetness flowed out of her core from the tidal wave of pleasure that coursed through her.

“Oh, yes. I think I’m going to come.” She had climaxed plenty of times by herself but had never felt the feeling that washed through her at this moment.

“Come for me, Lana. Fucking come all over my mouth. I want your cream covering my lips.” He continued to suck and lick at her, and just hearing the provocative words he said set her off. Her orgasm tore through her, causing her to thrust her breasts out and groan loudly. He never let up, just kept sucking and licking until her orgasm tapered off. Although she felt sated and relaxed, the orgasm did nothing to stop the arousal still pulsing through her veins. She opened her eyes to stare at him, his glorious body now naked. She didn’t know when took off his clothes, but his shirt and pants now sat on the floor. Her breath caught in her throat at the sight of his hard, muscled body.

He grabbed his cock as she slid her eyes up and down his body. She stared at his erection, eyes wide and heart beating quickly. He was huge, so big she didn’t even know if he would fit inside of her. His hands slid under her back and flipped her over so she straddled him. He leaned against the couch and gripped her naked hips.

“It will fit perfectly. You will feel exquisite when I slide in and out of you. Fuck, you’re beautiful.”

She breathed heavily, loving the dirty way he spoke to her. His cock rubbed along her slick folds, teasing her clit as he slowly thrust his hips up. The flame in her body grew stronger, her desire burning hotter and hotter. She initiated the next kiss, dipping down to meet his firm lips and slipping her tongue inside. He groaned and slid his hands to her ass before slipping one hand further down to rest by her vagina. He brought his other hand to her breast, tweaking and pulling at her hard nipple. His finger didn’t move any closer to her pussy, just sat close to her hole, making her want to thrust onto it. Their moans filled the room, and before she knew it, he scooped her off the couch and carried her to his bedroom.

Buy Link:   

                                         Web Link: JenikaSnow.com

Guest Jeanne St James- Rip Cord and "Crazy Questions"

 

Chloe’s Crazy Questions

Not content to just deliver what you may already know about these writers I have on here, I delve in DEEP to their inner most psyche and massage it, until I get a psychological profile Criminal Minds would be proud of….!

The world is ending in an hour, what do you do, and who do you do it with?

JSJ: Ok, I would have to say that I can’t say in public what my first answer would be. So, let’s see what I can share… hmm.

Oh you tease! If you were a cheese, what flavor would you be, and why?

JSJ: So funny, because I’m allergic to dairy. But I’d have to say I’d have to Mozzarella. I’m Italian and I can get warm and gooey. I’m very versatile too, like the cheese which can be used for pizza, Mozzarella sticks, lasagna, Calzones, etc.

You mean versatile like those hot men  you write about? wink.
Five things you can take to a desert island, what would they be?

JSJ: A flashlight, a boat, fishing rod, flint and my iPhone.

Finish this sentence: Love is like….

JSJ: A rock. No, I’m kidding. Love is like a necessary evil. It feels great to love and be loved but it also tends to cause pain and heartache. But as Lord Tennyson said: “'tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.”

Finish this sentence: my stories are like….

JSJ: A blooming flower. I start with a bud of an idea and they just grow into something beautiful. Sometimes they need trimmed but hopefully in the end they make someone smile.

Favorite action figure or action hero and why?

JSJ: Ooooo. Batman. I love Batman. He is strong and dark and yummy. I loved all the movies.

Mata Hari or Mother Teresa?

JSJ: Mata Hari. Definitely. She was a “bad girl.” She was known for her sensuality and her eroticism

AND, Jeanne is known for her great, sexy books. Like this one!:

RIP CORD is getting great reviews AND was up to #3 on the All Romance Ebooks Top Ten Bestseller list! And is a #1 bestseller at Phaze for December!

From Seriously Reviewed:

"Well, I sat down to read and burned dinner! I couldn’t stop reading. The story is fast. Gil attends his high school reunion. And we all remember how enjoyable that is…not. But with a hot jock like Rip, at least he’ll have someone to stare at during dinner. But wait. This is hot gay erotic romance. So when boy sees hot football star, boy lusts for football star, and holy shit, the football star has game of his own. The sex was raw and brazen, the dialog refreshingly natural and the ending pleasantly simple and satisfying."




Blurb:

Gil Davis had hated high school. Ever the geek, he had no intentions of attending his 10th year class reunion. The last thing he wants is to relive the taunting and teasing he received during his teenage years. However there is one thing he missed from high school: the star Varsity football player. The one he had a crush on since the first day he laid his eyes on him. But the last thing he expects is the now pro football player to come back to their home town to attend a lame high school reunion. Known as the Bad Boy of the NFL, Ripley “Rip” Cord, not only shows up, but shows up without a date and an eye for Gil.

CHAPTER ONE

Gil Davis couldn’t believe it had been ten years since he’d last walked through these doors. Where had the time gone?
When the invitation to his class reunion had come, he almost tossed it out, just as he had with the notice of his fifth year reunion.
He was not into reliving his high school years.
No way, no how.
But something on the invitation had caught his eye… this time they were holding it at the school. So instead of immediately pitching it, he had thrown the invitation on his kitchen table. Unfortunately, Katie, his best friend and roommate, found it and hounded him relentlessly until he agreed to RSVP.
And, of course, Katie insisted on being his date.
Which thrilled him to no end… Not.
Now he wasn’t so sure if he wanted to go in.
He wasn’t sure he was ready for a night of teasing from his former schoolmates.
Yet, here he stood, just inside the double doors of his old high school staring at the registration table by the gymnasium doors.
Someone grabbed his elbow. Firmly.
“You’re not chickening out are you?”
Gil just shook his head and swallowed hard. “Did you find the restroom all right?”
“Fine,” Katie said in her little no-nonsense tone. “Let’s go.”
The harder she tugged on his arm, the more he dug in his heels. He didn’t want to leave his little corner of safety yet. “Hold on.”
“No, Gil. It’s not going to get any easier. You look fine. We’ve – okay, I’ve worked really hard to get you to this point.” She smoothed the hair back from his eyes. Gil was surprised she hadn’t spat on her fingers first like a hovering mother hen.
The problem was, he was still a nerd at heart.
“Now, get your shit together and let’s go!” She gave his arm one last hard yank and dragged him over to the table.
Sucking in a breath, he steeled himself for what was to come.
The two women sitting at the table wore big predatory smiles.
“Gilbert? Gilbert Davis is that you?” the toothy piranha on the right asked. “I swear I didn’t recognize you without your bottle-bottom glasses and pocket protector.”
Those glasses were long gone thanks to Katie dragging him years ago to the optometrist for contacts.
Gil leaned forward to read her name tag. Bonnie (Trusk) Smith.
Bonnie Trusk. He remembered her. She had been part of the Homecoming Court their senior year.
And had accidentally run over his foot one day in the parking lot with her Eddie Bauer Explorer. Why? Her excuse had been she hadn’t seen him. Yeah, he had been the invisible man, “invisible” to all of the popular kids.
“Just Gil,” he corrected her.
She laughed and waved a hand toward him, clearly dismissing him.
The other woman, Patti Petroski-Harrison, shoved a “Hello! My name is… Gilbert Davis” sticker at him. “And your hair! It looks…” Gil expected the next word out of her mouth to be “normal.” Her face showed her internal struggle. “Nice.”
He was a geek. He knew it. He had been one ever since he could remember. And his classmates had always teased him about it.
She sized up Katie. “Are you his wife?”
Katie laughed and patted Gil’s arm. “Oh, no.”
Gil gave her a quick warning look.
Katie just gave him a sugary smile and a noisy kiss on the cheek.
“Well then,” Patti said. “When you go through the doors, Gilbert, there will be a table with place settings. Find your name and that will tell you where you’re seated.”
“Just Gil,” he corrected again, but by then both women were flashing their beaming smiles at another couple who had come up behind them.
Katie tugged him to the side to avoid being crushed by the new arrivals’ hugging and squealing. Gil didn’t recognize the newcomers. But then they had probably been a part of the “in” group.
Gil had been a full-fledged member of the “out” group, but not the “out of the closet” group.
A woman’s shrill scream shot a bolt of pain through his head.
“Did you hear Rip Cord is going to be here? Can you believe it?” the one called Patti asked, her question ending in a squeal. She looked as if she would bust a vein.
Gil stumbled back a step from the table, barely avoiding Katie’s toes.
Holy hell, he never should have agreed to come to this thing. Especially if he’d known Rip would be here.
Gil had a crush on Rip since high school. Unfortunately, Rip was definitely of the heterosexual persuasion. Being captain of the football team, he’d had every girl in school chasing after him, one way or another.
So he’d admired the well-built, handsome jock from afar. Very afar.
Hearing Rip’s name brought all those old feelings back to the surface.
All the insecurities.
Gil certainly had never expected his secret crush to come back to town for a ten-year class reunion. Rip had become way too famous for that.
Gil grabbed Katie’s arm and, with her squeaky protest, dragged her through the double doors into the gym.
“Jesus, Gil. What’s going on?” she asked as he pushed her against the wall just inside the doors.
“Did you hear that?” He struggled not to hyperventilate.
“What?” Katie peeled the backing off of Gil’s name tag and slapped it onto his chest. Not so gently either.
“Rip is going to be here.”
“Rip?” She wrinkled her nose. “What the hell is rip?”
“Not what. Who!” Gil swallowed hard and blew out a long breath. He realized then he was squeezing her upper arms. Way too hard. He relaxed his fingers.
“Okay, okay. Calm down. And let up a little more please.”
He released her and wiped his sweaty palms along his slacks. He never should have worn slacks. Slacks were nerd-wear.
Why didn’t Katie talk him out of wearing them? He should have worn torn jeans or leather pants or --
“So is Rip a band? I would’ve thought they just would’ve hired a DJ. It’s cheaper.”
“Wait. What?” Gil shook his head. “First of all, why would they need music?”
Katie pointed a finger upwards. “Hear that, nerd-o? Music. You know, it creates atmosphere and gives you something to dance to.”
“Dance?” Gil swallowed hard. He cocked his head. He did hear music. He hadn’t noticed it because he’d been too panicked about Rip being there. “Okay, just don’t ask me to dance.”
“No can do, Gilly. We will be dancing. I didn’t come along to be a wallflower.”
“Katie, you know I can’t dance,” he hissed inches from her face.
She had the nerve to laugh. As if his lack of rhythm was something to laugh about. His coordination left something to be desired. Gil considered it a handicap – maybe not one recognized by the government. But no one should make fun of the handicapped!
Gil frowned. “I didn’t see anything on the invitation about dancing.”
Katie sighed. “Gilly, don’t worry, we’ll fake it.”
“Don’t call me Gilly here. It’s bad enough people will be calling me Gilbert.”
“Okay, Gil. So if Rip isn’t a band then who or what is it?”
A low murmur throughout the room behind him caused Gil to look up. Coming through the doors…
Gil pressed a hand to the wall to steady himself. His legs had suddenly lost all strength.
Coming through the doors was…
“Him,” was all Gil could get past the lump in his throat.

Buy Rip Cord Now


Want more of Jeanne? You can find her here: 

Jeanne St James Website

Jeanne St James Blog

RomanceWritersBehaving Badly Blog

Win Flesh for Fantasy over at Wicked Thorn and Roses!

This is exciting. Double your chances to win today!
I recently met the wonderful Tierney O'Malley over at Wicked Thorn and Roses. 
Her Wicked Knight: Knight Brothers Series Book One won the Book of the Month. http://ddrreviews.blogspot.com/2010/03/book-of-month-winner.html
Congratulations Tierney!  

And lucky me, I am over at Wicked Thorn and Roses blog today with your chance to win my new erotic contemporary romance Flesh for Fantasy. Drop by and comment for your chance to win.

http://wickedthornandroses.blogspot.com/2010/03/something-hot-from-author-chloe-waits.html

AND...If you haven't heard me yet bleating over the mountain tops...lol... I've been over at Whipped Cream Reviews all week blogging in an author spotlight, and giving away a copy of my new release, Flesh for Fantasy there too. Come on over and visit for your chance to win, and follow the contest directions
.... today my  post is "Flirty Friday Fifteen...."

http://www.longandshortreviews.com/WC/index.htm


Thanks!
I have included a blurb and excerpt to whet your appetite.
Chloe


Flesh for Fantasy review:

“…for a hot, yet sweet, short read, then Flesh for Fantasy by Chloe Waits is a must have for your book collection…” Deb from Dark Diva Reviews 4 ½ Delightful Divas

Blurb for Flesh for Fantasy:

‘Cheyenne’ is every man’s fantasy—over the phone. Playing the popular fantasy mate, Cynthia Stewart seduces callers nightly, despite swearing off men in real life.

Separated and struggling to reclaim her career, Cynthia’s heart and libido are simply on the shelf. All this talk about fantasies has little effect on her.

Until Cynthia meets a man who wants to know hers.

All of them.

Opening up her private thoughts is a big step for Cynthia. Yet she can’t resist the man who describes himself like the perfect tall, dark, handsome stranger. And his calls slowly push her personal and sexual boundaries open.

But Cynthia starts to wonders if this is someone she can truly trust.

Because she has been giving him the blue print to seduce her for real...

Excerpt:

Getting into character Cynthia answered breathily, “Hello, this is Cheyenne.”

 “Cheyenne,” the voice drew out the word as though savoring the sound. “That is such a pretty name.” The deep masculine tones were authoritative. “But, I would rather know your real name. I am sure it’s even better.”

This man wasn’t a fool. Unlike most men, he knew she gave him a stage name. Rather than denying the truth, she said smoothly, “How about you call me Cheyenne?”

“My name is Mark, Cheyenne. I am six-foot-two, well built. Dark eyes and dark hair. Living and working in the downtown core.”

 This call was really shaping up to be different. Usually they only wanted to hear about her looks. He actually wanted to participate, to be let in on the fun.

 “Sounds yummy. I am a strawberry blonde with very long hair. Blue eyes, five-foot-five, curvy and tanned.” And I wear a bunny tail, too. She smirked to herself.

He chuckled. “That sounds like a playboy spread. I have a little more sophisticated taste. What would I have to do to get a real description?”

Her heart started to race. She got a glimpse of herself in the mirror. Yup, there wasn’t much of a bounce to this plain bunny.

“Okay, maybe you’ll give me a different description when you get to know me better. I would like us to know each other very well.”

In spite of herself Cynthia felt intrigued. She purred, “I would like to learn all about you Mark, like what turns you on.”

“Cheyenne, I would really love you to tell me what turns you on. I don’t want to hear just what you think I want to hear from you. This isn’t about what I want.”

Knocked out of her canned responses, Cynthia was speechless. Maybe someone should pay this guy to talk on the phone.

“Do you like to be made love to slowly, or fast, and urgent? Do you dream of someone who knows your desires? The true ones. Tell me.” She heard the soft seductive command in his voice. “Cheyenne, have you ever had a man that knew your wants intimately? That knew your true fantasies?”

Cynthia couldn’t block out the flood of erotic images that went through her head.

“No.”

The acknowledgment came out almost as a whisper before she could stop herself.

Chloe Celebrates: Ginger Men

No, not the real ginger men cookies, but just as yummy. I felt terrible hearing about a movement called "Kick A Ginger Day" done as a joke. Well, I don't think you'd be kicking these men, or kicking them out of bed, ladies!

Let's start off with my personal favorite: Kevin McKidd!
He's Scots, just like my hubby. My hubby is my favorite Scots, though not a ginger one. He thankfully knows I am a bit tongue in cheek when I post these men, and knows where my heart lies. Right honey?

Kevin McKidd reporting for duty in Grey's Anatomy. He plays a former army medic hired by Seattle Grace.

Very personal duties with Sandra Oh in Grey's Anatomy

Wait Sandra, let me adjust your tank top here...(kissing noises)

Before there was Owen Hunt and Grey's Anatomy, Kevin burned up the screen on the HBO series Rome. Rome lasted only two seasons due to its astronomical production costs. Rome wasn't built in a day and neither were these high cost sets, unfortunately! Like Spartacus: Blood and Sand, Rome also showed the best Rome had to offer: namely, togas, nudity, sex, orgies and violence. It also had a nice love story and a lot more thrown in. Great series, and great acting job by Kevin McKidd.
( you can read and see pics of Spartacus here: RWBB Blog) 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BsHP3n25Do

What's this link? it's to Gunpowder, Treason and Plot starring Kevin McKidd. About a young Mary, Queen of Scots, ascending to the throne of Scotland, Kevin is allowed to use his Scottish accent, and boy does he use it to full effect.

You really should watch this clip if you have time, when Kevin looks into Queen Mary's eyes and says: 

Aye wanchu nekkid an' in my bed  

in full Scottish brogue, it's worth the price of this movie alone. Watch it free here! I dare you not to faint!

And, here's a few more red heads to celebrate Ginger day.

Toby Stephens, actor, and son of the great actress Maggie Smith is distinctly ginger hued!

Remember Eric Stolz in Mask? Weren't you glad when he wasn't in his make up?

Thanks for celebrating with me, let's toast gingers everywhere, here's to a new special day, Kiss a Ginger!