Category Archives: First Kiss Friday

First Kiss Friday with Sherry Ewing

16 Friday Aug 2019

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Thanks for stopping by my blog for another First Kiss Friday. Today I’m taking you back to my bestseller Only For You: The Knights of Berwyck, A Quest Through Time (Book Two). This novel continues the story of Katherine & Riorden de Deveraux from my first time travel, For All of Ever. They’re my favorite characters and with a brand new gorgeous cover, my readers still get a 5 Star story to sweep you away to medieval England. Enjoy this blast from the past and although this isn’t the first kiss this couple have shared, it is the first kiss for the second half of their story. Happy reading, my lovelies!

Excerpt:

Katherine held the bed post and stroked the heavy wooden frame, almost reverently, as if to memorize the feel of it beneath her fingertips. Rough in places, it wouldn’t always remain this way. She smiled in remembrance of the first time she had seen this room.

The chamber really hadn’t altered all that much from now to when she was in Bamburgh with her friends more than eight hundred years in the future. Some of the furniture may have changed over time, but she still marveled that their placement was exactly the same centuries from now. She leaned her forehead on the dark oaken post and closed her eyes. She could still feel the utter despair of when she had first seen Riorden here in this chamber. She remembered reaching out to touch him, yet he had been nothing but a shadow of what could have been if only Time had not played such a horrible hoax on them.

The sharp sound of a trunk closing as the lid dropped into place brought her back to the present, and she watched in fascination as Riorden ran a hand through his mussed, shoulder length hair. He reached for a goblet of wine and took a sip until his attention immediately flew to her over the cup rim. There was such intense longing in his gaze that Katherine’s heart flipped, as it always did whenever he looked at her in such a manner. She knew he was reliving his own disquieting memories of her in his chamber as a ghost.

They continued to watch one another, transfixed by the haunting nightmare they had once shared. The image he presented, however, was so reminiscent of their past ghostlike encounter that a small thrill went through her, knowing he was really standing right before her in the flesh. She could touch him anytime she so wished, and forevermore would she be grateful that Time had bended to their most heartfelt desire. It wasn’t every day that fate brought her a gorgeous chivalrous knight to call her very own. She had waited her whole lifetime to find him, and she would take advantage of such a gift!

His eyes traversed up and down her body until a lazy grin developed on his face that generally was Katherine’s undoing. Since she could stand the handsome distraction he presented no longer, she shortened the space between them. Her eyes never left his as she came to stand before him. Taking the goblet from his hand, she took a small taste where his lips had but recently met the edge and placed the cup carefully on the table. The heady wine slid down her throat, warming her stomach. It was nothing compared to what he was unintentionally doing to her emotionally. The room grew hot, and yet still they spoke no words. He looked down at her from his towering height. His eyes told her what he wanted, but she only gave him a seductive smile.

She expected to be ensnared in his embrace and taken to their bed. He surprised her when instead he held his palm face up to her, and she knew for certain he, too, had been reliving the experience of their past encounter. With her shaking hand, she placed her own palm face down to hover but inches over his. She shivered when tingling sensations rushed up her entire arm. It was still there…that connection between them that even Time would never separate.

She could almost hear his thoughts. They mirrored her own. A small jolt of excitement went racing through her body when she began running her hands up his muscled chest. They halted when she tugged at the barrier of his shirt that was in the way of the prize she sought. She licked her lips in anticipation of how she really wanted to spend their last afternoon at Bamburgh.

Her hand slowly skimmed upward to caress the nape of his neck. His skin was warm beneath her touch. “Kiss me, my dearest Riorden,” she said in a husky whisper.

With the slightest pressure from her fingers to encourage him, he leaned down to place his lips on her own. This kiss was no different than any other he had given her over the past month. It was just as explosive, setting her entire being on fire, and had her begging for more than just his mouth on hers. Was it just her, or did he seem to breathe life into her very soul?

She yanked at his tunic so she could further explore his skin with an urgency born of almost sheer desperation. He groaned, making quick work of the garment by pulling it over his head and tossing it onto the floor. She began to lightly trace the lines of firm stretched skin on his stomach until he grabbed her hands as if he already couldn’t stand the effect such a small act of pleasure had on him. He crushed her into his arms with his own sense of eagerness, and Katherine felt as if she had died and gone to heaven. Such a cliché of a term, but there really was no other way to phrase how this man made her feel.

Riorden’s hands tore at the fabric of her gown, and she heard, more than saw, the ripping of the neckline that surely was beyond any form of repair now. She could have cared less, especially when she felt his hands reaching beneath her bodice like a bloody pirate after a coveted treasure sunk beneath the waters of the deep blue sea. He easily captured her breasts in his hands and leaned down to tease her nipples with his tongue until they were taut little buds in his mouth. His lips made a trail up her neck until he nipped at her earlobe, making goose bumps explode up and down her arms and spine. Good God Almighty! She was about to crawl out of her skin, she wanted him inside her so desperately.

His tongue darted out now and then, adding to her agony until she heard him begin to murmur in his deep baritone voice what she could only assume were words of love. She wouldn’t know, since he spoke them in Norman French.

“Riorden?”

“Aye, my love?” he answered but seemingly gave no thought to halt the blinding kisses he continued placing on her neck and the white mounds of her breasts.

“I can’t understand you.”

She watched him as he looked up, momentarily confused until it dawned on him. He gave her a wicked smile and pressed himself against her. His manhood was rigid with his own need, and she felt it throbbing against her.

“I want you.”

It was a simple statement that rushed to her heart, making her feel flushed and giddy at the same time.

Only For You: The Knights of Berwyck
A Quest Through Time Novel (Book Two )

The story of Katherine and Riorden de Deveraux from For All of Ever continues on in: Only for You

Sometimes it’s hard to remember that true love conquers all only after the battle is over…

Katherine de Deveraux has it all or so she believes when she begins her life with her husband Riorden. But as she begins to settle into her duties as the Countess of Warkworth Castle, she finds that an easy life is not only difficult but downright dangerous to her well-being.

Consumed with the haunting memories of his father, Riorden must deal with his sire’s widow who just happens to also be his ex-lover. Yet how could he know just how far Marguerite is willing to go in order to have the life she feels they were truly meant to live?

Torn apart by circumstances neither Katherine nor Riorden could ever imagine, Time becomes their true enemy even while Marguerite continues her ploy to keep Riorden at her side. With all hope lost, will Katherine and Riorden find a way to save their marriage and have their happily ever after ending, or will Katherine be whisked back to where Time truly feels she belongs?

Buy Links: 
Amazon US | Barnes & Noble | Apple Book | Kobo |
Amazon AU | Amazon CA |  Amazon MX | Amazon UK

First Kiss Friday with Kilby Blades & a Giveaway!

09 Friday Aug 2019

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It’s another First Kiss Friday and my guest today is fellow San Francisco Area Chapter of Romance Writers of America member, Kilby Blades. Be sure to read down to the end to be in the running for an eCopy of Kilby’s story. Happy reading and enjoy this excerpt from The Secret Ingredient, my lovelies!

Excerpt:

“What the fuck am I doing wrong?” Cella asked bluntly, still in a bit of a foul mood from that afternoon.

Cella looked back and forth between the two pots of Bolognese sauce sitting on the front burners of the stove. The left had been cooked by Max, the right cooked by Cella. Both worked off of a recipe found in her grandmother’s book. The sun had long since set, and through his windows she saw only faint hints of the shoreline through the darkness. Her tasting spoon sat, forgotten, in her hand.

“Do these not look the same?”

He nodded affirmation, but she was already on a tear.

“Smell the same?”

Another nod.

“Did we not go through each and every ingredient together?

He nodded again.

“Have we not tried this experiment twice?”

“We have.”

“Then why does your sauce still taste better than mine?” She looked up sharply. “Don’t laugh at me, Max!” she warned.

“I can’t help it.” He chuckling through sweeping breaths.

Sighing dejectedly, she flopped down on her stool. “I don’t understand what I’m doing wrong.”

“You’re not doing anything wrong,” he soothed, tugging the end of her ponytail that had long-since fallen out of its bun.

“But there must be something you’re doing, that I’m not.”

It wasn’t a bad theory that Cella was simply off. She didn’t cook well when she was in a bad mood.

“I’m going to share a family secret with you. Do you want to know what it is?”

She nodded her head lightly, in a question. Whereas his mood had been joking just moments before, she could see that he was about to speak in solemn truth.

“The secret ingredient is love.”

For all the love lost between she and Liz that day, it served only to sadden her. Cella was pretty sure she had to fire her agent.

“What if I’m fresh out of that?” Her voice caught slightly at the end.

He knew what was bugging her. He’d remained silent as she relayed the entire sordid tale on the bike ride home.

“Then I’ll put in enough for the both of us…just until you get yours back.”

She swallowed, still facing the sauce.

“Can you show me?”

He reached toward the stove, placing his hand on hers where it lay upon a long wooden spoon. Lifting their hands in tandem, he placed the spoon into Cella’s batch. Slowly—so slowly—he stirred their hands as he stepped in closer behind her. He closed his eyes as he bent his head lower. If she wasn’t mistaken, he was inhaling the scent of her hair.

“Close your eyes, Cella.” His voice held gentle command.

They stirred a rotation.

“Now, think of who you’re cooking this for, what a gift this will be to all who taste it, what a gift it is to have plenty of food to eat…”

Their hands kept stirring, with Max’s guiding, but Cella’s slowly taking over. He continued his tutelage.

“Think of the people you like sitting down to a meal with—people you love and people who love you…”

She exhaled shakily, then relaxed. She liked the way her substantial figure fit into his, the way one of his hands had fallen to her hip. For what seemed like minutes, they stirred. She found herself lost in his scent, in the heaven of their bodies so close, in the intimacy of their shared breaths. Though they kept their pace steady, some energy was building between them, working them towards something more, something she’d begun to want more fiercely with every minute they spent together.

“Can you feel it?”

“Yes.” Her voice was a whisper.

“Tell me how it feels.“

“Like nothing I’ve felt before.”

“Now, taste it,” he whispered, lifting his hand from the spoon.

Cella’s eyes remained closed but her ears were keen to the smacking of her lips.

“No offense, but it’s better than yours.”

He kissed the top of her head and murmured, “Twice as much love…”

*****

Max spent much of that night wondering what she might have done if he had kissed her over a batch of Bolognese. It marked the third time he nearly had in as many days. She’d looked entirely too appealing day-before-yesterday, soaking wet and laughing as they’d washed his dog. That same night when they’d headed to Kaito’s for karaoke, they’d gotten a bit handsy after two sake bombs. There was no way this would hold for another two weeks.

“Change of plans.” Cella’s voice held command as she breezed into the kitchen the next morning. “We’ll do Tiramisu tomorrow. Today it’s Capezzoli di Venere.”

He blinked, wondering whether he’d gotten the translation right.

“Nipples of Venus.” She busily removed ingredients from her bag, not meeting his gaze. “Roman chestnuts in brandied sugar.”

Her eyes held something he hadn’t seen before.

“It’s a difficult dish.” She ignored the fact that he had yet to speak. “The sugar has to be molded so it forms a hard shell on the surface, but stay so soft inside that you have to lick out it’s creamy middle. The candied chestnuts are finished with salt, which makes them a bit savory. Placing them in the sugar can be tricky. I’m putting you in charge of tweaking the nipples.”

Holy fuck.

But he followed her lead.

“So, tell me.” he asked cautiously, once they got started. “What led to this change of heart?”

“Tiramisu is so predictable.” Her voice lost some of its muster. “I thought maybe it was time I took a risk.”

She stopped measuring out sugar, refusing to meet his eyes again as she stared down at the scoop.

“Does that scare you?”

He knew they weren’t talking about recipes and cookbooks. Vanilla extract sat motionlessly in his hand.

She laughed ironically. “Everything scares me, Max. I thought you figured that out.”

He set down the bottle.

“Do I scare you?”

She didn’t laugh this time. “You scare me most of all.”

Since we’re being honest…

“You scare me, too.”

He held his breath to hear her response. When she set back to measuring her sugar, he knew none would come.

They worked in silence, Cella molding the sugary mixture, with Max handling the delicate confections like glass. After he set the chestnuts, she used a fine brush to seal the assembly with caramelized liqueur. They spent the next half hour silently cleaning up after themselves as their concoction set in his chiller.

“Time to taste,” she proclaimed when the timer went off.

She retrieved the tray. He picked up two pieces—so carefully—before placing one in her delicate hand. Their eyes remained locked as each one took a bite. It was the size of a bonbon—his teeth sliced into half, his senses rejoicing in the drunken sweetness that melted across his tongue.

“They’re perfect,” she breathed. He watched as her lips curled into a beatific smile.

His second bite was less guarded—he took out the base but left the nipple. He wanted to save the chestnuts for last. Watching as she devoured the rest of hers, Max followed her lips as they moved. Lazily, he fed himself his last bite. At some point, he noticed that her eyes were fixed on his lips.

“You missed a spot,” she whispered, extending her finger to point to the corner of his mouth.

He let his own finger run the length of his bottom lip before licking it with the tip of his tongue.

“Did I get it?”

She shook her head, eyes still glued to his mouth. “No.”

Before her finger could reach his mouth, he sealed his lips to hers.

Her kiss was hungry, and surged his desire as her tongue lapped at his mouth. Max was certain that it was not as hungry as his. Before he could contemplate what he was doing, he’d grabbed her by the waistline fold of her apron and pulled her close. Their tongues stroked deeply, urgent licks of fire, each of their mouths refusing to let go. Her soft moans caused him to pull her in closer as his arousal stiffened impossibly. With the sounds that he made, she tightened her grip where her twined fingers pulled on his hair. God, did that turn him on.

“Cella…”

She nuzzled his neck, and he gulped, gripping her hip with one hand and the counter behind him with the other. His hold on her hip was tight and he no longer knew whether he was holding her at arm’s length or pulling her in.

“Do you want to stop?” she asked.

She licked his ear and he shuddered. “No.”

“Do you want this?”

Her breath was hot on his ear. “God, yes.”

She dove in for another kiss, which he eagerly met, covering her lips this time without hesitation. The next thing he knew, he had untied her strings and her apron was on the floor.

“I want to make a slow meal out of you, Marcella,” he crooned, leaning in deeply to kiss her lovely neck.

They were against the counter; Cella bowed back to receive him, exposing to him her luscious expanse. He pushed her shirt up and over her head, revealing a lacy, green bra, its pattern and hue in the likeness of vines of cascading ivy. More gorgeous than the pretty thing that had teased him from beneath the edge of her shirt was her ample bosom heaving gorgeously from above the intricate top.

Freeing an itching hand, he slid his fingers from her hip up her pillowy flesh until her more-than-a-handful weighed magnificently in his palm. He gloried in their buoyant substance, in their perfection—they were just like risen dough. When her nipples pebbled he lowered his teeth to her opposite breast, grazing the tip with a playful bite.

“Next time,” she commanded, after letting loose a strangled groan. “Make a slow meal out of me next time.”

The Secret Ingredient
by Kilby Blades

TV chef Cella journeys to an idyllic seaside town to write an Italian cookbook. She’s also mourning a failed restaurant project, dodging her predatory agent, and finding respite from soul-crushing fame. When she learns that her next-door neighbor, hot doctor Max, is the nephew of a famed Italian restaurateur, she convinces him to help her write the book.

But guilt-ridden Max botched his own attempt to become a chef—a failure that’s left his late aunt’s gorgeous restaurant sitting empty for years. When the heat between Max and Cella burns hotter than the flames on the stove, how will they say goodbye at summer’s end?

Buy Links:
The Secret Ingredient on Amazon
The Secret Ingredient on other platforms

Kilby Blades Bio

Kilby Blades is a 40-time-award-winning author of Romance and Women’s Fiction. Critics laud her “feminist romance”. Her debut novel, Snapdragon, was a HOLT Medallion finalist, a Publisher’s Weekly BookLife Prize Semi-Finalist, and an IPPY Award medalist. Kilby was awarded an RSJ Emma for Best Debut Author in 2018.

When she’s not writing, Kilby goes to movie matinees alone, where she eats Chocolate Pocky and buttered popcorn and usually smuggles in not-a-little-bit of red wine. Kilby is a mother, a social-justice fighter, and above all else, a glutton for a good story.

Other Background
  • Winner of the 2018 Stiletto Award
  • Finalist in the 2019 Sexy Scribbles Contest
  • Finalist in the 2019 I Heart Indie Awards
Social Media Links

 

GIVEAWAY: To be in the running for Kilby’s giveaway, leave a comment telling us how old you were when you got your first kiss? A random comment will be generated as the winner of an eBook.

First Kiss Friday with Mary Morgan & a Giveaway!

02 Friday Aug 2019

Posted by in 2019, First Kiss Friday

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Welcome to another First Kiss Friday. Today’s guest is my friend Mary Morgan who is sharing the first kiss scene from her novel Dragon Knight’s Ring. Be sure to leave Mary a comment to be in the running for her giveaway and enjoy, my lovelies!

Excerpt:

“The first time I saw ye was in the hills near Urquhart. I was attempting to calm said beast.” He pointed to Ciar. “He was fierce in the beginning. Yet, ye ambled over to him singing a tune. Ye have always had a way with the animals. Your voice soothes them.”

“And that’s how we met, right? Ye did share this, but was there more?” Meggie handed him another spoonful of the meat mixture.

“Aye. Ye followed me down to the loch, and we talked for many hours. It was the start of our kinship.”

She rested her chin on her knees. “For how long, Adam?”

“Several summers.” He watched her closely, trying to gage her thoughts.

“Hmm…we were in a relationship.”

Baffled by her word, he shrugged. “I dinnae ken your meaning.”

“Were we a couple? Was I your girlfriend? Sweetheart?”

Adam took his thumb and captured a lone bit of food near her lip. Popping the tasty piece into his mouth, he heard her indrawn breath. “Ye were mine, Meggie. Stubborn, defiant, strong, and ye embraced each day with love for all.”

“What happened?” she asked.

“Ye left.” Standing, Adam moved away. Never a patient man, he wanted to blurt out everything, shake her into remembering. Frustration slithered inside of him. Walking over to an old oak, he braced his hands against its rough bark. He heard her approach, but kept his back to her.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered, and then surprised Adam by placing her arms around him.

Her touch seared straight to his soul, fracturing a place within his heart that had been sealed since her death. He broke free from her embrace and turned around. Grasping her face with his hands, his eyes roamed over her features. Seeing her lips part, he could no longer control the man that longed to taste what had been stolen from him. His entire being seemed to be filled with waiting, and he grew weary of the fight.

Lowering his head, his tongue traced the soft fullness of her lips. Then he brushed a feather light kiss on her mouth. It was divine bliss when their lips touched. “Do ye want me to stop?” he asked, breathing the words against her cheek.

“Nae.”

Reclaiming her mouth, Adam crushed her to him. This time, he devoured her soft lips and drank in their sweetness, slipping his tongue inside her mouth. Her moan slid deep within him, and he trembled. His emotions whirled and skidded. Unable to stop, he turned her against the tree, cupped her breast with one hand, and deepened the kiss. His cock throbbed to be inside her—to be one with her again.

She grasped his head and leaned more into him. Her mouth demanded more of his, and he plundered deeply. When her hands slipped under his shirt, he growled in pleasure. Breaking free from the kiss, he lifted her and carried her to the blanket. She sprawled back onto the blanket, and his hand caressed her curves. As he gazed at her flushed face, he saw neither fear nor hesitation in her eyes. “Tell me what ye want, Meggie? For if I continue, I fear I will not be able to hold back.”

DRAGON KNIGHT’S RING,
Order of the Dragon Knights, Book 5
By Mary Morgan

Death destroyed their love. Yet, can a trio of Fenian warriors roll back time to reunite two lost souls?

Crusader, Adam MacFhearguis is on one last quest to the standing stones in Scotland where he seeks to bury the past. However, a silent prayer sends him to an unknown future and to his beloved Meggie. When he uncovers a shocking revelation, Adam questions everything about the woman he thought he knew and loved. He may have traveled the veil of ages, but time is now his enemy.

Margaret MacKay lives a life in the future without the memories of her past—her death. When Adam arrives at her door confessing he knows her, she is confused and wary. With each passing day, she yearns to learn more from this stranger. Yet, when a truth is revealed, can she trust the man to unlock the chains from her mind and heart?

Will love free the bonds to unite the two lovers who were doomed centuries ago? Or will evil finally claim victory over the Dragon Knights?

Buy Links ~

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dragon-Knights-Ring-Order-Book-ebook/dp/B01HDWY8S2/

BN: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dragon-knights-ring-mary-morgan/1123986946?ean=2940158146312

Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/dragon-knight-s-ring

Apple iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/dragon-knights-ring/id1133781893?mt=11

Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Romance/Dragon-Knights-Ring-Audiobook/B07FKX59C6/

Author Bio ~

Award-winning Celtic paranormal and fantasy romance author, Mary Morgan, resides in Northern California with her own knight in shining armor. However, during her travels to Scotland, England, and Ireland, she left a part of her soul in one of these countries and vows to return.

 
Mary’s passion for books started at an early age along with an overactive imagination. Inspired by her love for history and ancient Celtic mythology, her tales are filled with powerful warriors, brave women, magic, and romance. It wasn’t until the closure of Borders Books where Mary worked that she found her true calling by writing romance. Now, the worlds she created in her mind are coming to life within her stories.

If you enjoy history, tortured heroes, and a wee bit of magic, then time-travel within the pages of her books.

Connect with Mary at these places:

WEBSITE/BLOG:  http://www.marymorganauthor.com
TWITTER:  http://twitter.com/m_morganauthor
FACEBOOK AUTHOR PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/MaryMorganAuthor/
GOODREADS:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8271002.Mary_Morgan
AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE:  http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Morgan/e/B00KPE3NWI/
PINTEREST:  www.pinterest.com/marymorgan50/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/marymorgan2/
BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-morgan
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-morgan-2634a77a/
BOOKGORILLA: https://www.bookgorilla.com/author/B00KPE3NWI/mary-morgan/kcc

Giveaway: Leave a comment for a chance to win a digital copy of DRAGON KNIGHT’S RING.  

First Kiss Friday with guest Barbara Bettis & a Giveaway!

19 Friday Jul 2019

Posted by in 2019, First Kiss Friday

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Welcome to my First Kiss Friday Blog. I’m happy to have as my guest Barbara Bettis whom you’ve also seen during Medieval Monday’s. Enjoy this excerpt from her novel For This Knight Only. Take it away Barbara!

GIVEAWAY: Summer has arrived with a vengeance, hasn’t it? To help readers keep cool. I’m having a giveaway. From comments on this post, a winner will be drawn for a copy of FOR THIS KNIGHT ONLY, along with a surprise cool gift.

Thank you for having me on your lovely blog today, Sherry. I’m celebrating the four-month anniversary of the release of my latest medieval. I loved writing Roark and Alyss’s story. Both are determined to have their own way, but each must learn to compromise.

Excerpt:

Anger drove her to answer without thought. “No one can force me to marry.”

He stepped back. “Sir Baldwin, tell Lady Alyss of the messenger who just left.”

Baldwin shot her a pained look of apology. “From Windom he came, milady. The new master there commands an interview tomorrow, under order of Prince John. I sent him on his way, but it don’t look good. This new master’ll be here early in the morn, I’m bettin’.”

Alyss stood, chin high, arms crossed beneath her breasts. “Let him come.”

Sir Roark chuckled. “By God, my lady, we’ll deal well together.” He grabbed her shoulders and pulled her against his broad chest.

Before she could protest, Sir Roark’s mouth was on hers, and she was forced to clutch his sleeves. Only to keep from tumbling over, of course, because her traitorous legs threatened to collapse. Then the tip of his tongue brushed the seam of her lips, and she lost all thought but his taste and the strangely comforting arms holding her up.

****

The kiss had been a damned mistake. Roark had meant it as a statement of possession. But her softness hit him like a mace. When he inhaled the rich fragrance of spice and roses and woman, his intent changed. He hauled her closer, slanted his mouth, stroked his tongue along the seam of her lips. At her whimper, a flicker of guilt undercut Roark’s stirring of desire. He ought not do this to the lady. He ought to gather his belongings and be on his way.

But the memory of the recent messenger lingered. That one portended nothing good. If Roark gave in to his inconveniently awakening conscience, by tomorrow night Chauvere, its people, and its lady would be the property of the neighboring lord. Of that, Roark was certain. So the way he saw it, either Lady Alyss married him or she’d be forced to accept someone else. And if Windom’s representative was any indication of his master, she’d not like that alternative.

What would it take to persuade her? A sudden pain burst between his legs, and he gasped, eyes blurry. The little hell-cat kneed him. Even though chain mail deflected some of the impact, he used every bit of his willpower to remain standing.

Apparently persuasion took more than a kiss.

For This Knight Only
By Barbara Bettis

He’ll do anything for land, even marry her; she’ll do anything for her people, except marry him.  If only either had a choice.  It’s a marriage only love can save.

Sir Roark will do anything to gain land, even beguile an unwilling lady into marriage. He knows she’s much better off with a man to take control of her besieged castle, to say nothing of her desirable person. But it isn’t long before he discovers that, although her eyes sparkle like sunlight on sea waves, her stubbornness alone could have defeated Saladin.

Lady Alyss is determined to hold her family’s castle, protect her people, and preserve her freedom— until her brother’s dying wish binds her to a stranger. Still, she’ll allow no rugged, over-confident, appealing knight to usurp her authority, even if she must wed him. Especially since he thinks a lady’s duties begin and end with directing servants. Alyss has a few surprises for her new all-too-tempting lord.

But when a common enemy threatens everything, Roark and Alyss face a startling revelation. Without love, neither land nor freedom matters.

Buy Links:
Amazon
B&N
Apple Books

Bio:

Award-winning author Barbara Bettis has always loved history and English. As a college freshman, she considered becoming an archeologist until she realized there likely would be bugs and snakes involved. And math. Through careers as a newspaper reporter and editor, then a college journalism and English professor, she’s retained her fascination with history. Give her a research book and a pot of tea, and she’s happy for hours. But what really makes her smile is working on a new story. Now retired, she lives in Missouri where she spins tales of heroines to die for—and heroes to live for.

Find Barb Here:

Bookbub
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Blog/Website

First Kiss Friday with One Last Kiss

12 Friday Jul 2019

Posted by in 2019, First Kiss Friday, New Release

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It’s First Kiss Friday and there’s no better way to show off my latest release One Last Kiss: The Knights of Berwyck, A Quest Through Time! So let’s get right to it with the first kiss scene between Thomas & Jade. Happy reading, my lovelies!

Excerpt:

Silence descended upon the room with only the crackling fire to break the mood that had come upon them. He stood and went to her.

He was pleasantly surprised when she watched him as carefully as he observed her. “You are not afraid of me?”

A small smile lit her face. “No, of course not, unless you think I should be.”

“Nay, I do not,” he answered honestly before giving her a short bow. “Mayhap, we should start again. I am Sir Thomas, ever at your service, my lady.”

“And I’m Jade. A pleasure to finally meet you, Sir Thomas.” A short giggle escaped her afore she held out her hand for him to take.

“I am certain the pleasure is mine,” he murmured. Bending to brush a kiss across her knuckles, his eyes widened when he became distracted by a strange glow coming from her opposite hand. ’Twas then that he recognized she wore his ring!

Suddenly, her left arm swept around his neck with alarming speed. The force brought their bodies together, and he could feel for himself when Jade attempted to catch her breath. “Thomas! I swear I didn’t do that on purpose.”

“Aye, I know,” he muttered as his eyes widened in surprise when a power bigger than either of them could have imagined began to bring their lips closer together.

“Thomas…” she said in a breathy whisper.

“Jade…” he returned as their breaths mingled on a heartbeat afore they surrendered to their first real kiss.

***

Jade was unsure what madness had overcome her to be kissing a man she barely knew, but, in many ways, she felt as though Thomas had always been a part of her. Crazy as it may seem to even have such thoughts, she gave in to the invisible energy surrounding and pulling them together.

The moment their lips touched, everything changed. Where before she felt as though she were being forced into something she didn’t want, now, it was as if this was where she was always meant to be. With Thomas… in his arms… kissing him with all the love she could muster up for another human being.

Their kiss ended just as quickly as it had started. Their breaths ragged, they could only stare into each other eyes. Thomas reached down to caress her cheek, and a sense of wonderment filled her, knowing she had truly crossed time. He gave her a half smile as though he had heard her thoughts before he leaned down to taste what she now freely offered. It was as though they were now in control of their destiny.

Thomas deepened their kiss, and she heard his moan of pleasure even as she held back one of her own. It wasn’t as if she hadn’t been kissed before, but there was a reason she had remained single for so long and not married right out of high school like so many had done. No man had ever stepped into her life that seemed to be the other half of herself or just the piece of her that had been missing. She had sworn to herself she would never settle, but with Thomas, she had an instant connection she knew she would never find again in any other man. In an instant, the universe tilted as though they became as one, almost as though Zoe’s words pulled them together from across the centuries.

As though she watched the scene in a movie theater, his arm wrapped around her waist, and he held her even tighter, bending her over. He made her swoon as no other man had ever done before. Her hand reached up and took ahold of his hair. Gosh, she never wanted to let him go.


One Last Kiss: The Knights of Berwyck
A Quest Through Time, Book Five
Just $0.99!

Sometimes it takes a miracle to find your heart’s desire…

Scotland, 1182: Banished from his homeland, Thomas of Clan Kincaid lives among distant relatives, reluctantly accepting he may never return home… Until an encounter with the castle’s healer tells him of a woman traveling across time—for him.

Dare he believe the impossible?

Present Day, Michigan: Jade Calloway is used to being alone, and as Christmas approaches, she’s skeptical when told she’ll embark on an extraordinary journey. How could a trip to San Francisco be anything but ordinary? But when a ring magically appears, and she sees a ghostly man in her dreams…

Dare she believe in the possible?

Thrust back in time, Jade encounters Thomas—her fantasy ghost. Talk about extraordinary. But as time works against them, they must learn to trust in miracles.

Can they accept impossible love before time interferes?

One Last Kiss was previously in the Bluestocking Belles’ 2018 holiday box set entitled Follow Your Star Home. This novella is now being released for individual sale and includes bonus material of several entries that appeared on the Belles’ blog the Teatime Tattler.

Buy links – only $0.99:

Amazon US  | Apple Books  | Barnes & Noble  | Kobo

Amazon AU  |  Amazon BR  |  Amazon CA |  Amazon DE  |  Amazon ES  |  Amazon FR  | Amazon IN  |  Amazon IT  |  Amazon JP  |  Amazon MX  |  Amazon NL  |  Amazon UK

First Kiss Friday with Caroline Warfield

05 Friday Jul 2019

Posted by in 2019, First Kiss Friday

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It’s always a pleasure when I can have Caroline Warfield on my First Kiss Friday blog. Today she has an excerpt from The Unexpected Wife. Take it away, Caroline!

The Unexpected Wife made it to the final list for the RONE award! In May I gave you their first kiss, and impulsive reaction to his return from a dangerous secret mission inside the forbidden city of Canton. This excerpt is the scene before he left. As to the kiss—it lurks in here.

Excerpt:

A rustle of cloth alerted her to Charles, who watched the conversation from the foot of the stairs. He dressed entirely in black, and he carried a Chinese robe in a green so dark it almost looked black thrown over his shoulder. He wore a bowl-shaped hat.

“He’s right, you know,” he said.

“About being above the law?” she demanded.

“About ruining your chances for a good marriage.”

She rolled her eyes. “You know how little I care about that.”

“I didn’t say dynastic marriage—I said good. You have seen what Temperance and Aaron have—or my uncle and aunt.” He wandered closer and leaned one elbow on the wall next to her. “Don’t you wish for it? You ought to, Zambak.”

The warmth in his eyes pulled her in, driving the breath from her body. Charles wants what they have for himself. This gentle man, locked in union to the hellish Julia, wants domestic peace above all else. For the space of a heartbeat, she longed for it as well, but knew it for the impossible desire it was. “I, Charles? I want to own my life, to not be a pawn in some political chess game. In the unlikely event a choice like the one you describe arises then, yes. I might take it. I have little hope that it will.”

His eyes lit with a fire that burned into her. “Sometimes life surprises us with unexpected gifts,” he said, studying her. His intensity burned deep into her heart and radiated through her. When he leaned closer, she realized he meant to kiss her. His desire didn’t frighten her; it filled her with wonder. Her own yearning to accept him, however, shot terror straight to her core.

Good God, Zambak. You’re lusting after a married man! She pulled away.

Stricken, his face flushed red, and he stood straighter. “Zambak, I—”

“What have you done to your face?” she asked. She didn’t know if he meant to apologize or express disappointment. She couldn’t bear either of them and was grateful when he let her turn the subject.

“Walnut juice.”

She felt her lips twitch into a smile. He always finds a way to amuse me. She loved that about him.

If their dilemma troubles you, it did their author as well. Charles is a good and honorable man, and his wife is, well, not. Given the chance, he will resolve his problems honorably.

About the Book: The Unexpected Wife
Children of Empire Book 3

Crushed with grief after the death of his son, Charles Wheatly, Duke of Murnane, throws himself into the new Queen’s service in 1838. When the government sends him on an unofficial fact finding mission to the East India Company’s enclave in Canton, China, he anticipates intrigue, international tensions, and an outlet for his frustration. He isn’t entirely surprised when he also encounters a pair of troublesome young people that need his help. However, the appearance of his estranged wife throws the entire enterprise into conflict. He didn’t expect to face his troubled marriage in such an exotic locale, much less to encounter profound love at last in the person of a determined young woman. Tensions boil over, and his wife’s scheming—and the beginnings of the First Opium War—force him to act to rescue the one he loves and perhaps save himself in the process.

Zambak Hayden seethes with frustration. A woman her age has occupied the throne for over a year, yet the Duke of Sudbury’s line of succession still passes over her—his eldest—to land on a son with neither spine nor character. She follows her brother, the East India Company’s newest and least competent clerk, to protect him and to safeguard the family honor. If she also escapes the gossip and intrigues of London and the marriage mart, so much the better. She has no intention of being forced into some sort of dynastic marriage. She may just refuse to marry at all. When an old family friend arrives she assumes her father sent him. She isn’t about to bend to his dictates nor give up her quest. Her traitorous heart, however, can’t stop yearning for a man she can’t have.

Neither expects the epic historical drama that unfolds around them.

Here’s a short video about it:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Di7cBi_EyAE

It is ***FREE*** with Kindle Unlimited or you can buy a copy at:

US https://www.amazon.com/Unexpected-Wife-Children-Empire-Book-ebook/dp/B07FGGC918/

UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unexpected-Wife-Children-Empire-Book-ebook/dp/B07FGGC918/

Canada https://www.amazon.ca/Unexpected-Wife-Children-Empire-Book-ebook/dp/B07FGGC918/

EuroZone  https://www.amazon.de/Unexpected-Wife-Children-Empire-Book-ebook/dp/B07FGGC918/

India https://www.amazon.in/Unexpected-Wife-Children-Empire-Book-ebook/dp/B07FGGC918/

About the Author

Traveler, would-be adventurer, former tech writer and library technology professional, Caroline Warfield has now retired to the urban wilds of Eastern Pennsylvania, and divides her time between writing and seeking adventures with her grandbuddy. In Children of Empire series three cousins torn apart by lies each find their way home from the far corners of the British Empire, finding love along the way.

She has works published by Soul Mate Publishing and also independently published works. In addition she has participated in six group anthologies.

For more about the series and all of Caroline’s books, look here:

https://www.carolinewarfield.com/bookshelf/

First Kiss Friday with Sherry Ewing

28 Friday Jun 2019

Posted by in 2019, First Kiss Friday

≈ 2 Comments

Every day is Valentine’s Day when you’re in love, right? Since it’s First Kiss Friday, how about if we go back a few months to the release of Valentine’s From Bath: A Bluestocking Belles Collection? My novella contribution to the set was The Earl Takes a Wife featuring Adrian de Courtenay whom you first met in his sister’s story, A Kiss for Charity. I might just have a giveaway at the end of this post so be sure to read all the way to the end. Happy reading and enjoy, my lovelies!

Excerpt:

Adrian gently maneuvered her against the brick of the manor, his body a protective shield along with a trellis filled with ivy vines to efficiently hide her. Her mind work furiously hoping she was not another conquest and this was not some kind of habit he had done before with some other willing lady.

His long fingers reached out and took her chin, tilting her face upward so she could do nothing more than stare into those mesmerizing blue eyes. The corners of his mouth lifted into a sensual grin and Celia was lost to everything but him.

“Adrian…”

His name rushed out from between her lips as though they were already lovers causing her face to flush crimson if he could but see it in the dim light. Her hands moved of their own accord to tentatively touch his waist. At her apparent encouragement, he stepped even closer until she could feel the very heat of him against her young trembling body. His hand slid to her cheek, the thumb rubbed a gentle pattern as if to calm her but she was anything but calm. The anticipation of his kiss was going to kill her.

A heavy sigh escaped him. “You should leave.” His voice was strained as though he was struggling within himself.

“Yes… I probably should.” Her hands crept upward to finger the buttons of his waistcoat, the floral pattern in deep contrast to the rest of his dark attire. A mental image from her dreams of her undressing Adrian on their wedding night flashed in her head. With such a startling memory, her hands quickly travelled to the edge of his jacket as if holding onto him might give her strength and the support she needed to remain level headed.

His breath was warm against her temple when he placed a soft kiss at her hairline before he touched his forehead to her own.

“You are not leaving,” he murmured, his hands moving down her arms as if she needed warming. His voice was low and husky causing her flesh to shiver in anticipation of the unknown.

“I cannot,” she managed to croak out while she tried to find a way to breathe. Somewhere in the recesses of her mind she knew she must flee but she ignored the warning especially when her stomach flipped when his arm swooped around her waist.

“Why not?” he asked, pulling her closer so there was no doubt left in her mind that he wanted her. She may be young but she certainly understood the fundamentals of what she should have expected when she took his hand into the coolness of the night.

Celia wound her arm around his neck, touching the curling edges of his brown hair. God only knew how much she had been dying to do that since Hollystone Hall. She swallowed hard and rushed onward, her fate sealed to this man whether he knew it or not. “Because I have dreamed of your kisses from the day we first met,” she confessed, her words seemingly loud as though such an admission should be shouted for all the world to hear.

Adrian muttered something beneath his breath before he gave her a little shake. “I made you a promise that I would behave as a gentleman,” he growled out while he apparently continued to struggle with whatever he was feeling.

His voice made her shiver yet again but she kept her place within his embrace. “I would expect nothing less.”

He took her face into the palm of his hands in order to study her reaction to his touch. She covered one of his hands with her own. “If we stay out here, I have no doubt I will break such a vow,” he replied.

“Then before I lose my nerve to ask such a request of you…” Celia hesitated but an instant before she rushed on in an urgent plea, “…kiss me, Adrian. Kiss me like—”

…you love me, she finished when he cut off her words for she had no other recourse because Adrian did just that. Kissed her. Right there. In the moonlight. With half of Society but a breath away.

His kiss was demanding at first before he softened his lips on hers. Clearly she had no idea what to do with her mouth since this was her very first kiss. He must have realized such a fact because everything changed between them. Although with the possession of his mouth on hers, their situation was charged with an unseen energy that Celia never wanted to end.

Unsure what to do, she stood as still as one of the marble statues in her uncle’s garden. Until, with a gentle urging from Adrian, she opened her mouth and followed his lead. A willing pupil while the master taught her what he enjoyed.

He easily slipped his tongue inside. Warm fire erupted in her veins while her tongue warred with his. A low moan escaped her, unbidden, but easily detected in the silence of the night. A tell-tale sign of the true depth of her feelings for the man who kissed her senseless.

Nothing had ever prepared her for the heady rush of emotions that enveloped her whole being. His arms tightened around her, she clutched at him like she was starving and only Adrian could satisfy her cravings. Nothing mattered. Not the ball. Not her sisters. Not Phillip. Not even her father. The only thing Celia realized was that if Adrian could kiss her like this, than surely he, too, must care for her. Did he love…?

“Celia!”

They tore their lips apart while the sound of her name continued to echo off into the night. Her breathing heavy, she melted into Adrian’s arms and heard his own heartbeat running wild. He was just as affected as she was.

 

The Earl Takes a Wife by Sherry Ewing in
Valentine’s From Bath: A Bluestocking Belles Collection
Just $0.99

It began with a memory, etched in the heart…

Lady Celia Lacey is too young for a husband, especially man-about-town Lord Adrian de Courtenay. But when she meets him at a house party, she falls in love and cannot get him out of her mind. Will he ever think she is old enough to become his wife?

Adrian finds the appealing innocent impossible to forget, though she is barely out of the schoolroom and a relative by marriage. If they are constantly in each other’s company, then how can he move on without her?

His sister’s deceptions bring them together but destroys their happiness. Can they reach past the hurt to the love that still burns?

Buy Links for Valentines From Bath:

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2XKDBJy
B&N: http://bit.ly/2FPc04J
Apple Books: https://apple.co/2FRdLOL
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2CPg01l
Smashwords: http://bit.ly/2TiSAZa

Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2S9TwSh
BR: https://amzn.to/2WiPSVs
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UK: https://amzn.to/2B3djJq

Did I mention a giveaway? If you haven’t read A Kiss For Charity, here’s your chance to win a eCopy of the novella that first appeared in Holly and Hopeful Hearts. For your chance to win, leave me a comment about one of those romantic moments you’ve experienced that still lingers in your heart. I’ll generate a random comment after the weekend as the winner.

Click on the book tab above to learn more about Lady Grace de Courtenay and her journey to finding love!

 

First Kiss Friday with guest Jude Knight

21 Friday Jun 2019

Posted by in 2019, First Kiss Friday

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Any day I can host my friend Jude Knight on my First Kiss Friday blog is a good day. Today, Jude is taking her back to her very first published romance, Candle’s Christmas Chair. We hope you enjoy this excerpt. Happy reading, my lovelies!

Excerpt:

It was an odd setting for a proposal, but safe. Any place he could be sure of being alone with Min in the house was a place he’d already imagined making love to her in. He wasn’t confident that he could control himself if she accepted his proposal. Or even that he would get to the proposal before…

He had to stop that train of thought. The succession house was becoming less safe by the minute. He was already thinking of the logistics of lovemaking here in the dirt among the seedlings. His coat spread to protect her dress… No. Not here. Quite apart from the respect he owed to an innocent and his future viscountess, he had no intention of consummating his desire in front of a hundred glass panes.

“Min, you know what I want to ask you.”

“I think I do.”

“Will you, Min? Will you make me the happiest of men? Will you marry me?”

“Ran, I am not from your world.”

“I know you are too good for me,” he joked, “but I’m hoping you’re prepared to make the sacrifice.”

“Ran, I am serious. I am the daughter of a carriage maker. You are a peer. Society…”

“Min, I love you. If you love me, then Society can go hang itself.”

“I want to continue making chairs.”

“I hope you will.”

“Really? You would not mind?”

“Min, you have a gift. I want you to use it. Say you will marry me, and I’ll have the bans read. We can be wed before Christmas.”

She withdrew. She didn’t move a muscle, but he felt her pulling into herself, away from him.

“Don’t, Randall.”

His first name in full. That couldn’t be good. But he wasn’t Lord Avery again, which was a hopeful sign.

“Is that a no, Min?”

She shook her head.

“Is it a yes?”

Another head shake.

“Min?” He came up onto his knees in a single motion, and captured her face between both of his hands, looking into her grey eyes.

She collected herself then, his brave little goddess. “When I come back with the chair, I will give you your answer.”

And then she pressed her sweet lips to his and he was lost. With a groan he enfolded her in his arms, slid his hands up behind her head, and deepened the kiss.

It could have been a minute; it could have been months. Time ceased to exist as he explored her mouth and she followed his lead. Her tentative movements, bold and shy at the same time, intoxicated him and he was conscious of nothing but the burning need to sink into her softness. Until a piece of gravel on the path turned as he shifted his knee, and dug into his skin.

He drew away from her with a groan.

Had he done that? Her lips were swollen and red, a sleeve was pulled down baring her shoulder, and one glorious breast was nearly tipped out of her dress. Another nudge, and he’d see…

He blinked, and shook the idea out of his head. “Min, my own dearest love.” He had to be calm. She looked as dazed as he felt. Probably more so, given her innocence. If his world was shaken, hers must be reeling.

“I would help you put yourself to rights, beloved. But I don’t dare touch you.”

She straightened her dress, repinned the lace cap she wore in her hair, rewrapped her shawl around her, all the while sneaking peeks at him and colouring each time their eyes met.

Before they left the succession house, he put a finger on her now clothed arm.

“Min, will you accept my apology, beloved? I meant no disrespect, I promise you. I should never have kissed you. I know how powerfully I react when we touch.”

To his surprise, she suddenly grinned. “Ah but Ran, you forget. I kissed you first.”

Candle’s Christmas Chair
(A novella in the Golden Redepenning series)

Can a viscount and a carriage maker’s daughter find love?

When Viscount Avery comes to see the best invalid chair maker in the southwest of England he does not expect to find Minerva Bradshaw, the woman who rejected him three years earlier. Or did she? Older and wiser, he wonders if there is more to the story.

For three years, Min Bradshaw has remembered the handsome guardsman who courted her for her fortune. She didn’t expect to see him in her workshop, and she certainly doesn’t intend to let him fool her again. Even if he is handsomer and more charming than ever.

Buy links

Jude Knight’s book page https://judeknightauthor.com/books/candles-christmas-chair/

99c as an ebook at the following places.

Selz shop https://judeknight.selz.com/item/candles-christmas-chair

Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Candles-Christmas-Chair-Jude-Knight-ebook/dp/B00R2AJDXG/

Amazon print https://www.amazon.com/Candles-Christmas-Chair-Jude-Knight/dp/0473313529/

Amazon UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/Candles-Christmas-Chair-Golden-Redepennings-ebook/dp/B00R2AJDXG/

Amazon Aus https://www.amazon.com.au/Candles-Christmas-Chair-Golden-Redepennings-ebook/dp/B00R2AJDXG/

Amazon Can https://www.amazon.ca/Candles-Christmas-Chair-Golden-Redepennings-ebook/dp/B00R2AJDXG/

Smashwords https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/502187

Barnes & Noble nook http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/candles-christmas-chair-jude-knight/1120932984?ean=2940046466812

Barnes & Noble print https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/candles-christmas-chair-jude-knight/1120932984?ean=9780473313524

iBooks https://itunes.apple.com/nz/book/candles-christmas-chair/id952647256?mt=11

Kobo https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/candle-s-christmas-chair

BooksaMillion: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Candles-Christmas-Chair/Jude-Knight/9780473313524?id=7321331754237

Overdrive https://www.overdrive.com/media/2075453/candles-christmas-chair

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/candle-s-christmas-chair-the-golden-redepennings-book-0-by-jude-knight

About Jude Knight

Jude Knight writes stuff and then tries to figure out how to slot the story into a genre category. Historical romantic suspense? Yes, mostly. She’s mad keen on history, enjoys what happens to people in the crucible of a passionate relationship, and loves to use a good mystery and some real danger as mechanisms to torture her characters.

Since publishing Candle’s Christmas Chair in time for Christmas in 2014, Jude has followed up with six novels and a heap of shorter stories, and plans to keep going till she runs out of years. In her other identity as Judy Knighton, she is a plain language consultant specialising in contracts, insurance policies, and financial disclosure statements. Fiction is more fun.

Website and blog: http://judeknightauthor.com/

Book blurbs and links: http://judeknightauthor.com/books/

Subscribe to newsletter: http://judeknightauthor.com/newsletter/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudeKnightAuthor/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JudeKnightBooks

Pinterest: https://nz.pinterest.com/jknight1033/

Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/Jude-Knight/e/B00RG3SG7I

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jude-knight

First Kiss Friday with Mary Morgan & a Giveaway!

14 Friday Jun 2019

Posted by in 2019, First Kiss Friday

≈ 33 Comments

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Hello, my lovelies, and welcome to another First Kiss Friday! Today’s guest is my friend Mary Morgan who is sharing the first kiss scene from her latest release, Destiny of a Warrior. Be sure to show Mary some love by leaving her a comment and also heading over to her Rafflecopter giveaway for your chance to win! Happy reading and enjoy!

Excerpt:

Her sister’s words of warning echoed within her. “Help me to see,” she whispered her plea to the Goddess.

“Whom do you wish to see, Rose?”

She turned so fast that her hand toppled two cups on the table to the floor. Aidan’s eyes blazed like the starlight she’d witnessed, and she fought a wave of dizziness.

He stepped around her and placed the bowls of soup on the table. Grabbing her by the shoulders, Aidan drew her near him. Her instincts were to curl up in his arms. Safe, warm, and seductive.

Rose lifted her head and braved the storm she feared would come with what she would do. He ignited a firestorm just by looking at her. Standing on her tiptoes, she cupped his face and brought his full lips down upon hers.

Aidan tried to throttle the dizzying current racing through him as the first brush of her lips touched his mouth. The heady sensation left him spiraling. His warrior instinct screamed at him to push her away. Spurn her advance and stop this insanity. Yet, he found himself eager and erratic as a summer storm on his home world. His whole being seemed to be waiting for this moment, and Aidan was lost in the euphoria of holding her in his arms. Her kiss was one of exploration—hesitant and unsure, and his calm resolve shattered with the hunger for more.

Grasping her firmly around the waist, Aidan crushed her body to his. Desire ripped through his veins. His tongue sought entry into her soft heat, and he inhaled her scent. Rose returned his kiss with reckless abandon. When she wrapped her arms around his neck, he groaned deep within her mouth.

He let loose the lustful beast demanding control and took possession of her.

Aidan lifted her with one arm, as their kisses became a frenzy of passion. Moving along the table, he came to a halt before the large chair. Shoving it around with one foot, he sat down and cradled Rose on his lap.

She twirled her fingers in his hair while he gazed into liquid pools of desire that mirrored his own. He trailed a path across her lower lip with the pad of his thumb and to the base of her throat where the pulse beat as though her heart had risen from its resting place.

He brushed away strands of silver blonde to cascade over her shoulder so he could bury his face against her neck. “You smell of spices and exotic flowers.” Aidan felt her tremble under his touch as he trailed a path along the vein running up her throat with his tongue and then recaptured her lips, devouring their softness.

He drank in the sweetness and passion of the kiss, exploring, teasing, and tempting him beyond all reason. Rose banished the darkness, and in its place there reigned starlight.

One kiss should have been enough. However, his soul cried out for more, and the Fae warrior became the man, yearning to experience what he had been denied.

Aidan banished all rational thought, except one. Conquer and possess the woman in his arms.

DESTINY OF A WARRIOR
by Mary Morgan

Blurb: 

“You met him in the Order of the Dragon Knights. Now, journey to the realm of the Fae and witness their greatest legend!”

As leader of the Fenian Warriors, Aidan Kerrigan’s accolades are many and his loyalty to the Fae unwavering. When an unexpected mission sends him to the human world and a chance encounter with Rose MacLaren, he’s tempted for the first time in his existence to discard duty and claim what is forbidden.

Rose MacLaren, a Society of the Thistle member, yearns to expand her botanical knowledge with her love of history. After her rescue by a handsome stranger, she is compelled to look beyond what her rational mind comprehends and unravel the secret of the standing stones, as well as the man who captivates her.

In a mystical world ruled by ancient laws and edicts, can a fierce warrior choose a path destined for love? And will a woman honoring the ways of the land believe in a myth only spoken of in legends? If they do, will their love be enough to defy death’s punishment?

Buy Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RBQC8VC/

BN: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/destiny-of-a-warrior-mary-morgan/1131596594

iBooks: https://books.apple.com/us/book/destiny-of-a-warrior/id1463476741

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/destiny-of-a-warrior

Amazon CA: https://www.amazon.ca/Destiny-Warrior-Legends-Fenian-Warriors-ebook/dp/B07RBQC8VC/

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Destiny-Warrior-Legends-Fenian-Warriors-ebook/dp/B07RBQC8VC

Amazon AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/Destiny-Warrior-Legends-Fenian-Warriors-ebook/dp/B07RBQC8VC/

BookStrand: https://www.bookstrand.com/destiny-of-a-warrior

The Wild Rose Press: https://www.thewildrosepress.com/books/destiny-of-a-warrior-legends-of-the-fenian-warriors-book-4

Legends of the Fenian Warriors

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JLQ9YVN/

About the Author:

Award-winning Celtic paranormal and fantasy romance author, Mary Morgan, resides in Northern California with her own knight in shining armor. However, during her travels to Scotland, England, and Ireland, she left a part of her soul in one of these countries and vows to return.

 
Mary’s passion for books started at an early age along with an overactive imagination. Inspired by her love for history and ancient Celtic mythology, her tales are filled with powerful warriors, brave women, magic, and romance. It wasn’t until the closure of Borders Books where Mary worked that she found her true calling by writing romance. Now, the worlds she created in her mind are coming to life within her stories.

If you enjoy history, tortured heroes, and a wee bit of magic, then time-travel within the pages of her books.

 Connect with Mary at these places:  

WEBSITE:  http://www.marymorganauthor.com

BLOG:  http://www.marymorganauthor.com/blog

TWITTER:  http://twitter.com/m_morganauthor

FACEBOOK AUTHOR PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/MaryMorganAuthor/

GOODREADS:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8271002.Mary_Morgan

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE:  http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Morgan/e/B00KPE3NWI/

PINTEREST:  www.pinterest.com/marymorgan50/

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/marymorgan2/

BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-morgan

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-morgan-2634a77a/

BOOKGORILLA: https://www.bookgorilla.com/author/B00KPE3NWI/mary-morgan/kcc

RAFFLECOPTER: (June 5 – July 15, US and Canada only)

Grand Prize: Signed print copy of DESTINY OF A WARRIOR

Celtic jeweled bookmark

$5 Starbucks Gift Card 

Direct Link to Rafflecopter:
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/1e1c4f647/

First Kiss Friday with a RONE Finalist!

07 Friday Jun 2019

Posted by in 2019, First Kiss Friday

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I’m still flying high knowing that One Moment In Time became a finalist for InD’Tale Magazine’s RONE Award earlier in the week. With that in mind, how about the first kiss scene between Edmond and Roselyn? Happy reading my lovelies, and thank you again for voting for my story!

Excerpt:

Edmond opened his eyes and found himself gazing into the face of an angel. Emerald pools, green as the Scottish moors, stared back at him with an expression of wonder. He reached out to lightly caress her cheek just to ensure she was real. She trembled beneath his touch and he thanked God Roselyn had awoken once more.

Swinging his legs down to the floor, he stood and reached for her hands to help her to rise. Her beautiful face wore a confused frown, and without thought he acted on the urge to assure himself she was real and on the mend, bringing her into his embrace. He knew in his heart his gesture was inappropriate; he should not be so bold, especially considering all that she had been through, but he could not resist.

Stepping back as he should became impossible when she returned his affection by placing her arms around his waist. As if they had a will of their own, his hands made their way up her arms and into her glorious curling hair that cascaded down the length of her back. It felt like the softest silk to his touch and a lock coiled around his fingers taking possession of him.

He took her chin in his fingers and tilted it up so he could see the face she had been hiding in his chest. Once more staring into her eyes, he saw her lips tremble and wondered how sweet they would taste. Leaning forward, he came to within a breath and hesitated. But only for one second. At last, he brought his mouth down to hers in a gentle first kiss.

 

One Moment In Time:
A Family of Worth, Book Two

One moment in time may be enough, if it lasts forever…

When the man Lady Roselyn Anne Winslow has loved since she was a young girl begins to court her, Roselyn thinks all her dreams have come true… until the dream turns into a nightmare.

Lady Roselyn is everything Edmond Worthington, 9th Duke of Hartford, could ask for in a wife and he is delighted to find she returns his love… until he loses her, not once but twice.

From England’s ballrooms, to Berwyck Castle and a tropical island that is anything but paradise, Edmond and Roselyn face ruthless enemies who will do anything to tear them apart. Can they recover their one moment in time?

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