Welcome to author Elsa Winckler!

I'm delighted to have the lovely Elsa Winckler here today, chatting to me about her new release 'Touched to the heart'. The book sounds very interesting - fit cyclist who also happens to be a tycoon, who can resist? And isn't that cover just gorgeous?

Touched to the heart 

Discover beautiful South Africa in this sweet, heart-warming Cinderella story about a blogger, a billionaire, and one chance meeting. 

When it comes to men, if physiotherapist Caitlin Sutherland didn't have bad luck, she would have no luck at all. To help cope, Caitlin starts blogging in her spare time, about the types of men she meets and the bad dates she goes on. While on duty during the annual Wines to Whales bicycle race, a gorgeous, sweaty cyclist walks in and sets her hormones dancing. But he is Don Cavallo; one of the four Cavallo brothers — hotel tycoons, famous as much for their business skills as for the number of beauties regularly seen on their arms. Don Cavallo has his own issues with the other sex. He has yet to find one who is interested in him and not in his money or hotels. But when this sexy physio puts her hands on his back she not only touches his body, but also his heart. They've both been burned before, but neither of them can stop themselves from playing with fire.

So, Elsa

1. Have you ever been out with a hotel tycoon, like Don?! If not, what made you pick that as his career?

No, I’ve never been out with a tycoon, hotel or otherwise. I wanted the hero to be filthy rich, one who was never sure whether a woman liked him or his money.

2. Can you tell us a bit more about Hermanus, in South Africa and why you used it as the setting for your book?

Hermanus is a beautiful sea village about an hour’s drive from Cape Town. When I was a student, my boyfriend’s (now husband) parents had a beach house there so I’ve always had a soft spot for the place. It has changed much over the years, from a little fisherman’s village to a playground for the rich and famous. Caitlin, the heroine has her physiotherapist rooms there and Don has inherited a house from his uncle.

3. If you had a choice where would you choose to live, and why?

I live exactly where I’ve always dreamed of living – in Betty’s Bay. It’s another little seaside village, but much more rustic than Hermanus. Here are no shopping malls for instance, just long beaches, a beautiful mountain, a botanical garden and wind – gale force winds in winter J

4. What comes first when you write a story?

It differs, I find. But usually, I get an idea and then decide on the characters. I like to give some background of the characters, so that the reader understands why the character behaves as she or he does.

5. Can you name five characteristics we’re likely to find in your heroes, and same for heroines?

I like my heroes to be assertive but gentle, firm but loving, self-assured, except when it comes to understanding the heroine, he must be brave, honourable and above all, caring. And after he meets the heroine, no other woman will do – he is forever faithful.

The heroines in my stories are sassy, feisty, independent (financially and emotionally), brave, smart, funny, and defiant.

6. What’s your idea of a perfect day?

The rare occasions when all our kids are around a table for a long, drawn-out dinner.

7. Can you tell us anything about your next book?

I also publish in Afrikaans and have two stories coming out in September. At the moment I’m working on what I hope will be the next story of the Cavallo brothers – Dale’s story.

8. If you weren’t a writer, what would be your next choice of career?

I’ve done many different things in my life – I started out as a primary school teacher, managed a clothing shop, somewhere along the way I studied again, taught again an ended my ‘other’ career as an administrator. At the moment I can’t think of anything else I’d rather do than write.

And before you run off, can you share a little excerpt?

‘Where’s your girlfriend?’ Was the first thing that popped out of her mouth. Caitlin nearly groaned out load. She looked away and unlocked her car. ‘Sorry, none of my business,’ she mumbled and opened the door.

‘She’s just a friend.’

‘Did you enjoy your date?’ she asked.

He shook his head. ‘I was watching you the whole night.’

Stunned, she swallowed.

‘And you? Did you have a nice time?’ he asked.

‘I…’ At a complete loss for words, she frantically tried to think of a word, any word. Nothing came to mind. She shook her head. He’d been watching her all night?

He stepped around so that the car door was between them. Her hands were resting lightly on the door.

‘Thought so.’ His smile was devastating. ‘I’d like to take you out, Caitlin.’

 ‘As in a date?’ she asked, still stunned.

‘Yes, Caitlin, as in a date.’ He touched her cheek. ‘There is something here,’ he said and motioned with his hand between them.

She didn’t move, just stared at him. Was he really asking her out on a date?

‘I don’t know what it is, but it’s keeping me awake at night. Let’s try a date and see how we like it. Friday around seven?’ he asked. ‘I’ll pick you up and we’ll have dinner.’

Caitlin stared at him for another minute before she was sure she could string a few words together. ‘Don, you…me…’ She shook her head and grimaced. ‘We live in two completely different worlds, we have nothing in common. You are…you, the papers are full of your businesses. I’m a physiotherapist from Hermanus. I don’t think —’

‘Then don’t. Think, that is.’ He smiled. ‘You do know that you can’t believe everything you read in the papers. And I happen to like this physiotherapist from Hermanus.’

She looked at him a moment longer. This was so not what she should be doing. Hannah’s warning and her own misgivings about him swirled around in her head.

His eyes never left hers.

She was a big girl. And if she prepared herself for the worst, then surely she’d be fine.

‘Where? I’ll meet you —’

‘I’ll pick you up,’ he said and lowered his head.

‘You don’t know where I live and I always drive myself,’ she managed just before his lips touched hers lightly.

***

Here's where you can grab a copy of the book –  

Amazon Kindle: http://www.amazon.com.au/s/ref=nb_sb_noss/377-2282561-6073300?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=9780857991676

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=9780857991676

iBookstore: https://itunes.apple.com/au/book/touched-to-the-heart/id885272339?mt=11

eBooks.com: http://www.ebooks.com/1701777/touched-to-the-heart/winckler-elsa/

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/search?q=9780857991676

Thanks for stopping by and sharing Elsa, the book sounds great. Good luck with it! 

About Elsa Winckler  - 

 I have been reading love stories for as long as I can remember and when I ‘met’ the classic authors like Jane Austen, Elizabeth Gaskell, Henry James The Brontë sisters, etc. during my studies, I was hooked for life.

I married my college boyfriend and soul mate and after 39 years, 3 beautiful children and 3 grandchildren, he still makes me weak in the knees. We are fortunate to live in the picturesque little seaside village of Betty's Bay, South Africa with the ocean a block away and a beautiful mountain right behind us. And although life so far has not always been an easy ride, it has always been an exiting and interesting one!

I like the heroines in my stories to be beautiful, feisty, independent and headstrong.  And the heroes must be strong but possess a generous amount of sensitivity. They are of course, also gorgeous!  My stories typically incorporate the family background of the characters to better understand where they come from and who they are when we meet them in the story.

Where can your readers find you?

Website: www.elsawinckler.com

Personal Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/elsa.winckler

Author Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ElsaWincklerRomanceAuthor?ref_type=bookmark

Twitter: https://twitter.com/elsawinckler @elsawinckler

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6557709.Elsa_Winckler

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/elsawinckler/

Wattpad: http://www.wattpad.com/user/elsaw1

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/111046023755042052612/posts

Three great romance re-releases from Eva Scott

I'm handing over to Eva Scott today - who has three tempting re-releases on offer. Aren't the covers gorgeous? Tell us more Eva...

Forget chocolate eggs and the Easter Bunny!  This year Musa Publishing have given me the best Easter gift ever by re-releasing my three contemporary romance books.  The books traverse locations from the city (Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane) to rural and seaside settings.  We’ve got a hunky vet, a sexy tradie and the one that (almost) got away.  Fancy a little get away for less than a cup of coffee? Then this is for you! 

RELUCTANT WEDDING PLANNER

Dr Camden James is a rural vet, not a wedding planner, so he quickly feels out of his depth when, in a fit of generosity, he offers to glam up his sister's budget wedding in a secret move designed to surprise her. With only six weeks to make this the wedding of his sister's dreams he needs to move fast.

Stumbling around in the largely female world of weddings he gets a lead on the go-to girl for wedding flowers - Georgiana Mac Intyre. Georgi, reeling from a very public breakup, is not interested in men in anyway shape or form. Not even super-cute vets - even when they are clearly interested in her.

Cam shamelessly uses his story to get her to help. It has all the elements; romance against the odds, true love, orphans (you can't have good story without an orphan or two), and a bride.

MARRIAGE MAKEOVER 

Nick and Talia Carmichael were childhood sweethearts. Grief over the death of their baby daughter from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome crushed their marriage. Talia moved to a new city, with a new career and life. Now it’s time to close the door on the past and ask Nick for a divorce.

Nick has other ideas. Once his wife, always his wife. He has no intention of letting Talia off so lightly and proposes terms and conditions to his agreement. It will mean moving back into their marital home, and force her to face long buried grief. Can she do as he asks?

Being with Nick causes her to question everything she thought was true. Has she made a mistake thinking her love for Nick is dead? Can he still love her? More importantly, can he again trust after everything they’ve been through?

T’WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

During her Christmas Eve performance, part time Burlesque dancer Miss Ginger Snap looks out into the crowd to see her first and only love, Clay Roberts. The man who broke her heart and betrayed her. The man who caused her to flee her home town to Sydney and never look back. Desperate to avoid him, she makes a mad dash for the last train back to her home town in time for Christmas.

For Clay time stands still as he recognises the dancer. He’s certain it’s Jessica King. She ran out on him at their high school graduation and he’s been searching for her ever since. After missing her train, Clay convinces Jessica to travel home with him.

Can Clay convince his one true love to give him the opportunity to atone and a second chance? Can Jess risk being hurt again by the man she loved?

BUY LINKS

Musa - http://musapublishing.com/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=199

Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Eva-Scott/e/B00AGLKWZ6/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1397540741&sr=8-2

BIO

Eva lives on the Sunshine Coast, in Queensland Australia in the town which brought the world the Bee Gees. When she’s not writing romance you can find her out on the water kayaking, fishing or swimming. When on dry land it’s all about the shoes and the coffee (and old Bee Gees records).

LINKS

Website:  http://www.evascottromance.com/

Face Book:  http://www.facebook.com/eva.scottromancewriter

Twitter:  http://www.twitter.com/EvaScottWriter

Cover Reveal and Giveaway! 'Anonymous' by Dani-Lyn Alexander

I'm delighted to have fellow HarperImpulse author, Dani-Lyn Alexander here today - revealing her gorgeous new cover!

The cover and title are enough to intrigue me, but if you need to know more...

Blurb:

What happens when an online date is not what it seems?

After Ali's heart is broken, she decides to try Anonymous, a new dating website where you can retain complete anonymity while you search for your soul mate. When she discovers Joe, she thinks she may have at least found a new friend and decides to put her past behind her and move on.

Several death threats and an attempt on her life force her back into contact with her soon-to-be ex, Mark, who is the lead detective on the case. The tension builds between them while Ali struggles to get over Mark, and Mark races to find the maniac who's trying to kill her.

When Ali meets up with her online flame, she finds he's anything but the friend she imagined…

RELEASE DATE is April 17th, but you can pre-order now from Amazon, and be one of the first to get your hands on a copy! 

Buy Link: Amazon 

Bio:

Dani-Lyn Alexander lives on Long Island with her husband, three kids and three dogs. She loves spending time with her family, at the beach, the playground, or just about anywhere. In her spare time, which is rare, she enjoys reading and shopping—especially in book stores. Some of her favorite things include; Bernese Mountain Dogs, musicals, bubble baths and soft blankets. She’s an incurable insomniac and has an addiction to chocolate.

Where to find Dani-Lyn:

Website:  http://www.danilynalexander.com

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

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/DaniLynAlexande

And don't miss out your chance to enter the giveaway! Just click on the link below -

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Meet the Author behind the stories - Lori Connelly and her cowboys!

Today I'm lucky enough to have Lori Connelly, the author of 'The Lawman of Silver Creek' here. If you want to find out a bit more about the book, and the author, read on! (Just the mention of cowboys is enough to catch my interest!)

Blurb:

As sheriff of Silver Creek County, Matthew Marson’s job is to look after his town. But when he fails to protect the most important person in his life, Claire, from an attack, Matt feels as though he will never be able to forgive himself.

Her husband-to-be’s newly found overprotectiveness drives the headstrong Claire from his arms. She can’t see a future with a man who won’t allow her to follow her dreams.

In a small town where everybody knows your name and your business, it’s impossible for the pair to stay apart, especially as Claire finds that she can’t completely turn her back on the lawman that she loves.

I've known Lori since I signed up with HarperImpulse last year, but I must admit I don't know an awful lot about her (authors tend to talk more about their characters than themselves!). So, this is my chance to find out more.

Okay, here we go with some quick fire questions…

1.      Have you ever been out with a cowboy, like your hero, Matt?!   No, I’ve never been out with a cowboy.  So, what made you pick that as his career? My grandma had tons of Zane Grey books that I read when visiting her.  Cowboys seemed larger than life in his stories and so now seem to me one of the best heroes.

2.      Can you tell us a bit more about Oregon and why you use it as the setting for your books?  I’m a lifetime Oregonian, born and raised.  I love living here and honestly wouldn’t want to leave.  My state has it all: ocean beaches, mountains, rivers, lakes, and even desert areas.  For hiking, fishing, camping and rock hounding my home has countless places to enjoy.   I grew up in a town that was ‘at the end of the Oregon Trail’, have often visited the Pioneer Womans Grave and stood in the ruts that still exist for the wagon trains that came west.  With such a rich environment of history, I felt my Men of Fir Mountain stories had to set in Oregon.

3.      If you had a choice where would you choose to live, and why?   If I could I would live on some acreage miles from the nearest town.  I would have my very own Hobbit Hole House to live in, have a huge aquaponic garden system and a miniature highland cow.  As to why?  I don’t have a definite answer beyond those are the things that occupy my dreams.  Someday I hope a dream or two becomes reality.

4.      What comes first when you write a story?   Usually a snapshot of a scene pops into my mind after I see or read something that sparks my imagination, an article, a photo, people in a waiting room, etc. and then I build around it. 

5.      Can you name five characteristics we’re likely to find in your heroes and/or heroines? Stubbornness,  intelligent, caring, willingness to sacrifice, faithful

6.      Do you ever wish you’d been born in the nineteenth century, or do you love the present day? I think it would be fun to visit the past but I like indoor plumbing, dishwashers, my laptop, internet and my cell phone too much to give them up. Technology makes the distance between my eldest, my grandbaby and I bearable. 

7.      What’s your idea of a perfect day?   A perfect day for me would be early summer weather, warm enough to play in the water but not so hot you can’t walk around in the sunshine, sleeping in, everyone in a peaceful mood, a lazy day just absorbing nature with my family.

9.      If you weren’t a writer, what would be your next choice of career? I would work for a non profit organization, helping others. 

 And before you run off, can you share a little excerpt?

Excerpt –  Fall 1891 Fir Mountain, Oregon

Energy crackled in the air. Wind howled, and thunder roared, loud and intense. Clouds obscured the sky, darkening the midday hour, as rain streamed from the heavens.

 “You shouldn't be here.”

 Claire McConkey smiled in response to his gruff, inhospitable greeting and moved closer. “Why?”

 Lightening streaked across the dull greyness above, illuminating her finely boned, heart shaped face. Dark brown hair blackened by water clung in tangles. The sight tugged at his deep need to protect her, but he fought it off with cold, hard reason. Another man might think the petite woman who stood only chest high before him, slender to the point that a stiff wind might blow her away, needed coddled. Her delicate appearance misled many. Sheriff Matthew Marston knew better.

 Matt stepped out on the covered porch of his family’s log cabin. She didn’t yield ground. Their bodies brushed, and awareness flared. He closed the door behind him to keep her out of his refuge, sidestepping to put some space between them.

 “Go home,” he ordered bluntly, his tone firm.

 As always, eyes the same rich color as her hair mesmerized him. Claire never veiled emotion. When laughter sparkled in the depths of her eyes, her delight was infectious. If angered, one look would scorch whoever had earned her ill humor. He’d never had to guess what she was feeling, until now. His weight shifted awkwardly from one foot to the other. Her gaze shone with an intensity that unsettled him.

 “But I’m soaked, chilled through. Won’t you ask me in?”

 “No,” He was certain she was up to something, playing with him. Her soft request only hardened his resolve.  

 An eyebrow arched at his swift denial. “You’d let me catch my death walking in the storm?”

His eyes narrowed. Matt studied Claire for a long moment, jaw clenched, suspicion high. Mere weeks had passed since the woman who’d held his heart from the time she’d worn ponytails and he chased frogs had rejected him. She’d inflicted a wound that festered, refusing to heal. The memory haunted his quiet moments.  He couldn’t understand how she could kiss him with soul searing passion one minute and then with her next breath calmly tell him that their wedding was off.

 ***

Buy links – 

The Lawman of Silver Creek :    All Romance ebooks   Amazon      Barnes & Noble     Itunes   Kobo

The Outlaw of Cedar Ridge:  Amazon Kobo   Barnes & Noble All Romance ebooks Itunes

Lori is also the co-author of

Loving Winter Nights, Love Romance (free ebook)

A Witch by Chance (free pdf book, downloadable from my website or blog)

Thanks for stopping by Lori! 

If you want to find out more, please do visit Lori's website, check out the Written Fireside stories, or follow her tweets - she's a lovely person!

Where can your readers find you? My links: Harper Impulse Website  My Blog  FacebookTwitter   Pinterest  Goodreads  Wattpad  Written Fireside   Google Plus  Amazon Author Page

About Lori  - I was born and still live in Oregon. Despite being a good student, my teachers complained about my tendency to daydream. The tales dancing through my imagination were frequently far more entertaining than real life. As far back as I can remember I made up stories, to calm my sister after a nightmare, entertain myself in boring classes and write in countless notebooks, many never again to see the light of day. I earned a BS from Eastern Oregon State College and married my best friend almost twenty years ago. I’ve three brilliant, handsome sons, one amazing daughter-in-law, a beautiful granddaughter and two spoiled dogs. When not writing I love to read, hike, camp, rock hound, and take long walks with my husband just after it rains.

A Barcelona Love Affair.... Barceloneta (1)

With February 14th looming on the horizon, I decided to start a series of posts about one of my love affairs. In part, my story is about a love affair with a person in the city. In part, it's about my love affair with Barcelona itself.

Either way, it's a love affair of the heart, and those are the type that count....

Barcelona is a multi faceted city. Beautiful, bright, old, dark, a place of peace, a place of festivals and celebrations. I think we've experienced all in the time we've spent there so far - but there is so much more to discover, to experience... It's a place of iconic images, of sand, sea, and structure... of people, of the colours and flavours of Catalan food, the green mint of Mojito's, the bright red of sun ripe tomatoes, the contrast and beauty of art and architecture that has imbued the place over the years. Barcelona can be something different to everyone who goes there, something new every time you return.

I want to share here, my Barcelona. Not a place of pickpockets and bustle, but a city you can fall in love with, a city where you can fall in love. And what better place to start than on the beach at sunrise, or even better, sunset?

La Barceloneta is in the Ciutat Vella district of Barcelona. In the height of summer, the sandy beach is packed for the better part of the day, but visit out of season, between November and March and although there is still a life and vitality to the place, the hordes have gone.  Or, do as we have done and visit the beach at sunrise, or in the evening as the sun sets,  and find a place of pure romance, a place where it is hard to believe you are moments away from the centre of a city.

From the central beach area, with it's restaurants and bars, it's worth taking your shoes off, letting the sand slip between your toes (or stick to the boardwalk!), and walking all the way to the distinctive building in the distance that is the W hotel...

The impressive building is worth a close look, and from here you can get a wonderful view, but don't stop here to eat - Barcelona doesn't have to be about fine dining, instead make your way back up the beach.

Sit in one of the bars with a cup of coffee, watch the skateboarding dogs and the surfers... and then much later leave the sea behind and explore the narrow streets of old Barceloneta.

Stroll across the Plaça Del Poeta Boscà, and tucked away round the back you will find Can Ramonet. The perfect spot to enjoy the feel of historic Barceloneta - try the tapas, or just sit out in the sun and enjoy a glass of wine or cava.

A romantic evening of sun, sea, tapas and good wine, a perfect start for a love affair....

And if you can't make it to Barcelona this Friday - why not stay in with a hot romance? Grab your copy of  'Making It Good Enough'  for FREE Wednesday 12th and Thursday 13th February. CLICK HERE

Samantha Darling - Countdown Teasers.....No. 4!

Revenge in Rio 

Countdown Teasers

No.4

Are you ready for the 4th and final teaser? It's introducing the lovely Daniella Venancio to you. I adore Daniella and so did this reviewer, saying she's one of the bravest heroines that she has ever read! **Feels so proud** I hope you like her too.

***

Daniella Venancio

That's my teaser countdown finished. I hope everyone enjoyed them and more so, you enjoy the book itself, which is released TOMORROW!!! Eeeek! #Excited

'Til next time!

Sam :-) 

X

Yay!! I've nabbed Jane Linfoot on release day. Want to know How to Win a Guy in 10 Dates?

I’ve known Jane for quite a while now on Facebook, and I’ve just been dying to see this story hit the e-shelves. I couldn’t resist pre-ordering it as soon as it was available – I loved the cover, title and blurb! Here it is, if you haven’t already seen it –

Book blurb – How to Win a Guy in 10 Dates 

The 10 Date Challenge

Day 1: Take one loaded commitment-phobe explosives expert, embarking on the impossible–a challenge to have ten dates with one woman.

Day 5: Add in a fiercely independent and feisty burlesque teacher who has sworn off men.

Day 10: She’s so not his type and he’s so not in her life-plan. But the heat is sizzling and the attraction is explosive. And they’re fighting it all the way….

I’m really pleased she agreed to pop by on her release day and answer some questions.

So Jane, if you’re ready, here’s my How to Find Out More about Jane Linfoot in 10 Questions…

1. Have you ever been out with an explosives expert (like the hero)? If not, what made you pick that as his career?  Hi Susie, great to be here, thanks so much for having me, and from the look of this first question we’re going to have fun! I haven’t ever been out with an explosives expert - but I did have a next door neighbour who was one. He used to tell some brilliant stories about working in the quarry just along the lane from where we lived. I used this as the setting for the start of the book – I used to walk the dog in the field where Millie’s accident takes place. I loved the thought of a hero who had an unusual job, and fireworks and big bangs tied in perfectly with the ideas I had bouncing round my head about explosive attraction.

2. Can you tell us a bit more about your time in France?  Ahhh, France. It was such a lovely time. We swapped a Derbyshire cottage for a rural farm in Southern France, intending to get away from it all and live the dream. But one morning hoeing potatoes was enough for us to know we weren’t cut out to be full time farmers. I was lucky enough to be able to set up an architecture practice instead, and a local builder’s merchant down the road worked out that if I did the drawings for people, he could sell the materials for the building projects, so he brought me loads of work. I designed everything from new bungalows for local farmers, through to large country house restorations for wealthy English exiles. But I did miss home, and in the end I wanted the children to have the advantage of growing up in their own culture, so we came back to UK. We still have lots of friends over there, and visit as much as we can.

3. It sounds like you live in a lovely part of the country, if you had a choice where would you choose to settle, there or somewhere else? I love living where I am, but I do enjoy moving too. And I’d love to live in London for a while. Anyone fancy a house swap?

4. What comes first when you write a story?  I have lots of ideas floating around, and the story takes off when I find the perfect combination of characters, setting, themes and title to fuse together. I’d never begin without strong characters though, because for me they are the story.

5. Your heroine, Millie, is a feisty burlesque teacher (I love the sound of her already!), have you ever tried burlesque dancing, or do you know anyone who has?  The closest I’ve come to Burlesque dancing is that I once got a pole dancing lesson for a Mothers’ Day present, but sadly, in the end, the class didn’t run. Probably a good thing, as I’m totally un-athletic – I’ve always wanted to be able to do cartwheels, and I’ve never been able to. My daughter does Burlesque dancing though, and the inspiration for Millie grew from that. It sounds great fun.

6. Can you name five characteristics we’re likely to find in your heroes, and same for heroines?  My heroines tend to be feisty, strong, unusual and sexy, and they always need a good sense of humour to cope with the heroes I throw at them. My heroes have to be hunky, have a great sense of humour, and be ultimately capable of total commitment, even if they’re running scared at the start. They tend to be tortured, and they love great sex, the hotter the better.

7. Do you ever do the gardening in a bikini?! (Sorry, but the scene I read from the book had Millie in a skimpy one, so I had to ask!)  My garden gets pretty over-grown with nettles and brambles – I blame it on over-enthusiastic spreading of horse manure in the days when we had a rescue pony – so if I’m doing serious jungle-busting I’ll do it in shorts and a vest. But if I’m wafting in the garden, and it’s hot enough, I’ll wear a bikini, especially in France. And yes, it’s as skimpy as they come. I do like an all-over line-free tan – but I have to be careful not to scare the postman!

8. What’s your idea of a perfect day?  I like every day to be perfect.

9. Can you tell us anything about your next book?  My next book is already with Harper Impulse, waiting for release. Readers may recognise it as my 2011 SYTYCW entry, Being Bad, but the final title hasn’t been decided yet. It features Shea, who turns up at Brando’s country manor house in a helicopter, having won a TV competition, to try out for the position of his wife. She’s got no intention of being anyone’s wife, she just wants to do some home organising, and grab a chance for a new start. And Brando’s appalled by the whole thing, so the sparks fly.

10. If you weren’t a writer, what would be your next choice of career? Wow, another great question. I’d love to be a jewelry designer, a lingerie designer, or maybe work with animals. Looking after polo ponies sounds like something I’d enjoy. In reality I’d probably fall back on property restoration, because I do enjoy doing that and I have a lot of experience of it.

 And before you run off, can you share a little excerpt?

Excerpt –

Millie jumped as she heard Ed’s voice reverberate through the house. What the heck was he doing rocking up in the middle of the afternoon, and her in her skimpiest bikini?

‘I knocked, but you obviously didn’t hear, so I let myself in.’

And then he was there, sauntering through from the house, talking to her, but not looking at her face. Eyes all over everywhere else. Devouring.

‘Who finishes work at three thirty?’

Not that she wasn’t completely at ease with her body – she was. Just not at ease with the way her skin sizzled under his scrutiny. She rubbed her nose with the back of a gluey hand, playing for time as she worked out her next move. Diving into the house to grab a vest would be preferable.

But how to get past him? He was leaning languidly across the doorway, all tanned brooding strength, eyes sootier than ever behind those amazing lashes,and uncannily silent. She saw his jaw clench imperceptibly, his broad shoulders shift.

A guy with a habit of getting stuck in doorways. Again.

‘If you’ll excuse me?’ She took one firm step towards him.

He didn’t move. Simply stared. And swallowed.

‘Can I pass please?’ She ignored the banging whack of her heart against her ribs, dragged her eyes away from the unmistakable blue shadow of an erection, forging against the denim of his jeans.

‘Of course.’ His eyes narrowed. Then he went sideways, back still grazing the wall, to make room, and his lips slid into the laziest of smiles. ‘Any time.’

She hauled in a breath, hesitated, hardly trusting herself to pass him so close, hating that her body was betraying her, fizzing with excitement.

She needed to man up. What the heck was happening here? It was only one man, and one doorway she needed to get through. What could be so difficult?

Fixing her eyes firmly on the island unit in the kitchen, she set off.

Easy as. Except just after she’d made it past him, he snagged her. Not hard, not fiercely, hardly at all in fact, just the slightest graze of her forearm, then his fingers gently locking around her wrist.

 Enough to make her heart-beat crash to a standstill, as her legs turned to hot syrup.

She stopped, turned a fraction, and the unbearable scent of him knocked her off her guard. As she rolled her eyes to meet his, she registered smoldering heat in their dark chocolate depths.

And the thought that any moment his mouth was going to come crashing down on hers.

‘Millie......?’ His voice was hoarse, gravelly.

 Frozen as the goose-bumps raced up her arm, nipples like..... ‘What?’

He let her wrist drop, and he cleared his throat. ‘I brought cakes. Any chance you could make some tea? ’

And then there was nothing, except her hand, limp at her side.

As if she’d imagined it, as if it hadn’t happened at all. 

‘Actually I’m just about to go out.’ And then she was in the kitchen, grabbing a t-shirt from a kitchen stool and grappling her way into it.

A gut reaction. There was plenty of time for tea, so why was she pretending there wasn’t? Lashing out because she was disappointed? Or saving herself from looking like a total fool when her over-active imagination made her think he wanted her? Hearing his voice advancing as he came in from the courtyard, she blurted out a hurried excuse.

‘Sorry, I have classes this evening. I need to get ready. I should have said before.’ She shrugged, diffidently. ‘Some other time perhaps?’

‘When are you back?’ His eyes narrowed, more calculating now than smoldering.

Despite the blasts of hot air wafting from the courtyard, she shivered. ‘Nine.’

Suddenly she wasn’t sure she trusted herself to be around him any more. The more infuriating she found him in real life, the more she ached for a piece of him. She hated her body for playing tricks on her. No way could she be interested in any man right now, without de-railing her life-plan. She needed to get a grip on reality, she was a million miles away from ready for another guy. She had her priorities, and more to the point, she had her self-preservation instinct firmly in place. No guy, no matter how much animal magnetism he exuded, would be allowed to distract her and make her drop her guard.

‘Catch you later then!’ He was sauntering towards the door as airily as he had sauntered in. One cheery wave, one disgusting, tummy flipping, laid-back smile, and he was out of her hair. Easy peasy. But something about the set of his jaw made it sound like a threat not a promise.

***

Buy links – Amazon

US     http://amzn.to/175vMNR

UK    http://amzn.to/19axrXZ

Thanks for stopping by Jane, and good luck with How to Win a Guy in 10 Dates, I can’t wait to read it – and find out how she does it!!

Where can your readers find you?

Author Page Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/JaneLinfoot2

Personal Page Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/jane.linfoot

Twitter: https://twitter.com/janelinfoot - @janelinfoot

Website: http://www.janelinfoot.co.uk/

Watch out for my Tasty Book Tours 21 Date Blog Review Tour, starting on 9th September! Thanks to the wonderful Lisa Filipe for organising this! http://www.tastybooktours.com/

About Jane  -

I’m Jane Linfoot, and I write fun, flirty fiction, with feisty heroines and a bit of an edge.

I live in a mountain kingdom in Derbyshire, England, where my family and pets are kind enough to ignore the domestic chaos – happily, we’re in walking distance of a supermarket. For me, writing romance is cool because I get to wear pretty shoes instead of wellies. I love hearts, flowers, happy endings, all things vintage, most things french. When I’m not on facebook, and can’t find an excuse for shopping, I’ll be walking, or gardening. On days when I want to be really scared, I ride a tandem.

Cover Reveal!! Revenge in Rio

I'm excited to be part of the cover reveal for 'Revenge in Rio' which is due for release on October 21st. The author is Samantha Darling - and ever since I heard that Beachwalk Press had accepted the story for publication I've been dying to see the cover (and read the book)!

So here it is, and it's sexy!

Blurb 

Calculated revenge, unexpected passion…

Business magnate Luca Venancio is returning to Rio to pay his respects to his late brother, and to seduce his once fiancée, Daniella, back into his bed. Five years ago she left him without so much as a word, shunning him and the rich life he could offer in exchange for his younger, reckless brother. Now Luca wants revenge—seduce her and dump her, that's all he intends to do.

Blackmailed into a violent farce of a marriage, Daniella had no choice but to comply to protect Luca's life, even though it meant never being able to see him again. Years later, a twist of fate reunites them, throwing her plans of fleeing Rio out of the window and the love of her life straight back in.

Luca's flawless plan soon becomes complicated when he discovers Daniella is expecting his brother's child. It becomes even more complicated when old passions return. Can he actually go through with seducing her, bedding her, and then discarding her?

If you've not met the lovely Sam yet, here are a few details - follow/like her and make sure you don't miss any of the fun on release day.

Author Info

I live in Essex, not too far from London, with my very understanding husband, our identical twin boys, and two Bedlington Terriers. We're crammed into our rather cozy two-up two-down terrace and we can barely swing a cat, but hey, we love it. I work part-time as a nurse, but when I'm off duty, you will find me either chasing the toddlers around like a headless chicken, head buried in a book, or tapping away at my stories.

I have always loved to read and romance is by far my favourite genre! You can easily escape into such promising worlds, where sexy Alpha males lead the way and strong heroine's often can't help but fall head over heels in love. I adore a Happy Ever After - as I'm sure we all do if we're honest, right?!

Reading and writing go hand in hand and from the day I could read, I enjoyed writing. To put pen to paper and conjure up weird and wonderful little stories was what I thrived on! English was my favourite class at school right throughout to secondary - and I will always be thankful for the teachers who gave me the opportunities to develop and be creative! If I remember rightly, one of my first stories was called 'The Turkey Who Could Talk'...but I'll tell you more about that some other day :-) 

Author Links

https://www.facebook.com/samantha.darling.9828

https://twitter.com/samanthav1986

http://www.samanthadarlingromance.com/index.html