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Tuesday, August 30, 2022

August Vignette - "Sturgeon Moon" by Linda Mooney

"Sturgeon Moon" 


            “What are you doing?”

            Kryra whirled around, startled. Recognizing him, she started to salute him, but he waved it off.

            “Sorry. I didn’t mean to disturb you,” Captain Braid apologized. “I thought the viewing deck was… Never mind.”

            “No, wait. You don’t have to go. I was just leaving,” she told him, and moved to walk past the commanding officer, when he stopped her.

            “No. Please. Stay. It’s not often I get to see another human face among the crew, much less talk to them.” Something in his voice made her stop. He seemed reluctant for her to go. She noticed his outer uniform coat was unbuttoned, which told her he either was on a break, or about to go off-duty. Flashing him a smile, she nodded and returned to the wall window. He joined her.

            “Beautiful view, isn’t it?” he remarked.

            “Yes. It reminds me a lot of home.”

            “How so?”

            “According to the ship’s computer, it’s the month of August back on Earth.” She pointed to one of the orbs circling the planet below. “See that moon? See how Sedra Prime shines on it? If we were down on the surface of Sedra Four, it would look like a full moon.” She gave an all-encompassing wave of her arm. “All of them would.”

            She sensed the captain coming up behind her. “I remember seeing our single moon’s phases when I was growing up. It was one of the reasons why I wanted to join the Galactic Forces,” he admitted. “I wanted to see the moon close up. Then I wanted to see the other planets in our solar system. And when I grew tired of seeing the storms on Jupiter and the rings of Saturn, I wanted to see Andromeda. Then Sirius. Then Cassiopeia.”

            She turned to find him smiling at her. “And continue onward, farther and farther out into space. To other galaxies and solar systems.”

            “Exactly.”

            She returned the smile. “That’s how I felt, too.”

            “You did?”

            “Yes. And still do.”

            “Exactly.”

            They stared out at the magnificent view for several long and silent minutes, until Braid spoke again. “You said it was August back on Earth?”

            “Yes.”

            “A very hot August, I assume.”

            “A muggy August, where I’m from,” Kryra remarked.

            “If I remember correctly, all the full moons had a name, didn’t they?”

            “Yes, sir.”

            “So the August moon would be…”

            “The Sturgeon Moon.”

            He turned to give her an astonished look. “Sturgeon? Like the fish?”

            “Yes, sir. In fact, it’s called that for the fish.”

            “Why would they name a moon after a fish?”

            Laughing softly, Kryra shrugged. “I don’t know. The ship’s computer couldn’t say exactly. Fortunately, there are other names for it.”

            “Other names for the same moon?”

            “Yes.”

            “That’s interesting. If there are other names for the same full moon, and all of these moons showed up in August, what would the others be called?”

            She caught the amusement in his tone. Pointing to the other moons circling the planet, she told him. “That would be the Green Corn Moon. And that one the Grain Moon. And that little reddish one I think is the Fruit Moon.”

            “How about that one?” He pointed to an orb barely visible above the planet’s horizon.

            “That’s the Barley Moon.”

            “Hmm. Those sound like crops. It makes sense, considering it would be the time of year when the harvesting is done.”

            She glanced over at him. “You sound nostalgic.”

            He crossed his arms over his chest. “So do you.”

            “How long has it been since you were…home?”

            Braid bowed his head. “A while. A long while.”

            Taking a deep breath, she took an at-ease stance. She was comfortable around the man. Always had been, which puzzled her since most of the crew was split in two other camps—those who feared him, and those who practically worshipped the ground he walked on. She fit into neither, but maybe that was because of what she was. She was accustomed to captains keeping their distance from astrophysicists. As long as she did her job and did it well, there wasn’t much of a need for him to make any sort of contact with her.

            Which was why this moment in time was such a rarity.

            She gave a sideways glance at the man less than a meter away from her. He was relatively young to be a captain of a celestial rigger. Roughly ten years her senior, from what she’d learned. But he bore the physical and no doubt mental scars of a man who’d earned his place and this ship.

            He caught her studying him, and that corner of his mouth lifted. “A cred for your thoughts.”

            “Sir, you’ve earned your quarters in order to take a little R and R. Have you thought about going back to Old Earth for a short vacation?”

            “Yes, I have, Doctor. Many times.”

            “What’s stopped you?”

            He turned to face her directly. “My parents are gone. I have no other family left there. What would be the point?”

            “Memories. Reliving old ones and making new ones.”

            “And how do you propose I make new ones?”

            “Go to places you’ve never been before. Places you’ve always wanted to see but never had the chance.” She cocked her head. “How long has it been, Captain?”

            “Twenty-eight years. How about you?”

            “Sounds like you’re way overdue,” she told him, deliberately not answering his question.

            He wouldn’t let her slide. “How long has it been for you?” he repeated, but not forcefully. He sounded honestly interested.

            “Eighteen.”

            “Sounds like you’re way overdue, as well.”

            “Yes, well, I would, too, but I hate traveling alone.” It came out before she was aware of her slip, and she silently cursed herself.

            Braid continued to stare at her with those intense blue-green eyes. She often dreamed of them. Unintentionally, of course. He cut a demanding figure. Maybe that was why he didn’t intimidate her. Neither did she get the impression he was trying to.

            In fact, if truth be told…

            It hit her with a clarity that almost surprised her. The man was lonely.

            Of course he might be, she told herself. Isn’t that what’s always said? That it’s lonely at the top?

            “You hate traveling alone?”

            She turned back to the wall window.

            “If that’s the case, Doctor, why are you here?” Once more, she could tell he was toying with her, but in a good-natured way. “Aren’t you traveling now?”

            “This is my job. It’s not the same.”

            “With your intelligence and marks, you could have a job anywhere you wanted,” the captain pointed out. “Yet you chose to apply to the GF.” His voice dropped. “Because you wanted to see what was beyond our own galaxy. If that isn’t traveling, what is?”

            She almost winced when he pressed that button. With one short conversation, he now knew more about her than most of the other crewmembers she’d been in contact with in all the twenty-two months since she’d first come aboard this ship.

            “It’s not the same thing, and you know it,” she gently retorted, and waited to see what his reaction would be.

            Braid chuckled, surprising her again. “Okay. I get it. Traveling is for pleasure. Going places because it’s required for your job is another thing. Have I got it right?”

            “Yes.” She added a nod.

            “But what if you decide to, say, take in a little sightseeing the next time we dock at a substation planet?”

            “I’d rather not, thank you.”

            “Oh. All right. I understand.” He took one more look at the panorama outside the ship, then turned to leave, but paused to address her. “I need to get back to the bridge. We’ll be arriving at the Caudulis system by oh-nine-hundred hours. Several of the crew have requested remote leave, which I plan to grant. You’ve earned enough quarters to take some time off for yourself.”

            He’d noticed?

            “Thank you for letting me know, sir. I’ll keep that in mind.”

            “And…I’ve been thinking about maybe hyperjetting back to Earth for a three-day holiday myself. Do a little…traveling.” He noticed her wide-eyed expression. “I’d be honored if you’d accompany me. I hate traveling alone, too.”

            She watched him stride toward the door. When it opened, he stopped one more time.

            “Let me know if you change your mind, Dr. Trevor. By the way, my first name’s Stephen.”

            He exited the room, leaving her astonished and intrigued. Turning around to study the moons below, she wondered how long she should wait before she let him know she would take him up on his invitation.

 Linda's Website

Monday, August 29, 2022

HERE BE NEWS For Monday August 29, 2022

 




 Monday August 29, 2022 

Welcome to HERE BE NEWS, where each monday we bring you all the latest from the fantasy romance authors at Here Be Magic:



Tuesday August 23, 2022:  
PG Forte offers helpful advice for when your WIP doesn't match up with the calendar in writing out of season.

 

                

PG Forte's holiday story, Christmasing With You, will release on November 1st as part of the Let's Get Naughty holiday anthology--available for pre-order now!

Let's Get Naughty 
A Limited Edition Romance Anthology 

If you think it's too soon to get on Santa's naughty list...think again. 

Cancel your plans and spend this holiday season with 26 romance authors who have teamed up to bring you a delicious holiday treat. 

This collection will have it all: fake relationships, second chances, enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, workplace romance, age gap, CEO’s, bikers, and falling for the best friend’s brother. 

Each of the authors will have an unforgettable, steamy story. So come on over, grab a blanket, and get started on finding your next favorite author today. 

Let’s Get Naughty is the perfect anthology for you to binge this holiday season.


         

The LA Love Lessons series recently got pretty new covers! Here's an excerpt--it's a little long, but it's one of my favorite scenes) and all the usual info.

Let Me Count the Ways
LA Love Lessons, Book 3
Buy Links: https://books2read.com/u/bpzWKk

She's thinking fling, he's thinking forever.

Sexy former film star Claire Calhoun is used to having her pick of studly young men. Now that she and Derek have called it quits, however, the actress-turned-entrepreneur is feeling vulnerable. After one mojito too many at a party one night, she decides it would be fun to try something new-in this case, Mike Sherman, her staid accountant and long-time fan.

Claire has been Mike's fantasy since the first time he saw her bare it all for the camera. Now that she's in his bed he'll do whatever's necessary to keep her there. But he's not a stalker, right? He's just a devoted fan.

NEW: look for a new Christmas story featuring Mike and Claire available this Christmas as part of the Let's Get Naughty  antho available for pre-order now: https://books2read.com/letsgetnaughty

Claire was looking at me strangely when I finished talking. “That is a very romantic story.”

“You think so?”

“Mm-hm. And it’s a beautiful car.”

Well, that part I agreed with. “It is. It’s a classic. Beautiful, elegant, it can’t ever really go out of style. And it handles... well, like I always knew it would.” Suddenly, I remembered that she wasn’t feeling well. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have gone on so long. You must be bored.”

Claire shook her head. “Not a bit. And don’t be sorry. I asked, remember?” Then she flashed that wonderful smile at me again. “Why don’t we get going now?”

I nodded, feeling just a little sorry because this was a moment I knew wouldn’t likely come again. It would have been nice to stretch it out a little longer.

If only she were feeling better. If only I’d thought to pack a picnic, a blanket, a bottle of wine. But, given the circumstances—really not a good idea. I’d started the car when I remembered, “I still don’t know where you live.”

“That’s all right,” she said as she re-fastened her seatbelt. “I don’t want to go there anyway.”

My eyebrows rose. “Well, then, where are we going?”

Her hands stilled on the buckle. She looked at me questioningly. “I thought... your house. No?”

My house?”

She nodded. “Mm-hm. You know, the one you said you helped design? I’m intrigued. I’d really like to see it.”

“But... that’s... that’s all the way out in Topanga Canyon.” Surely she didn’t expect me to drive all the way out there, then back here, then back out there again? All in one night? Or was she so drunk the idea seemed reasonable?

Claire’s lips quirked. “I know where it is. Is there a problem?”

I sighed. That would be a Yes on the drunk question, wouldn’t it? “Look, Claire, that’s a little far for a joy ride, don’t you think?” I hinted, as gently as I could.

“Weren’t you planning on going home tonight anyway?”

“Yes. Once. But not... not two or three times.” Not that the idea of spending all that time alone with her wasn’t heavenly but... well, no, damn it, this was not quite what I’d had in mind. “I know I said the drive back into town only takes a matter of minutes but, even so, those minutes do add up. And I’ve driven out there and back once tonight already. Besides, it’s getting a little late. Wouldn’t you rather I just take you home now?”

Claire was staring at me fixedly, as though attempting to puzzle something out. Finally, “Michael, I thought you understood? When I asked you to take me home I meant I wanted to spend the night with you.”

This time, I knew for certain I was hearing things. I shook my head, hoping to clear it. “Spend the night?”

She nodded. “With you. Yes. Is something wrong?”

The only thing wrong was the way the blood had left my skull, headed straight for my dick. Somehow, I’d have thought that would make my brain feel clearer, but it didn’t. “Just—Jesus, how much did you have to drink back there anyhow?”

Laughing, Claire slipped her seatbelt off again. She leaned in close and lifted one of her hands to frame my face. Her fingers felt as cool as they had before; but this was even better than before because this time she was touching me on purpose. Her eyes were dark, her smile was sultry and her voice and her words were something out of a dream. “You’re a very sweet man, Mike. You shouldn’t sell yourself short.” Then she kissed me.

For a moment, I think I forgot who either of us was. We were simply Man and Woman and nothing had ever felt more right. Her lips were soft, her scent was sweet and everything male in me responded. Mine. Fierce and insistent, the instinct to claim her, to take her as my own—now, tonight, forever—overrode everything else.

I kissed her back, tugging her hard against me, my tongue coaxing hers into play. Touching everything I could get my hands on, I practically tore the material of her dress as I sought for the zipper. Then my hands registered the feel of the sequined gown they were coasting over—the same glimmering garment I’d been trying, all evening, not to stare at. Suddenly, I remembered where I was and who I was with.

“Claire. Oh, my God. I’m sorry, I—”

She opened her eyes. Something dark flickered in their depths—heat and passion and something else. Alarm, maybe?

“Wow.” Her voice emerged hoarse and breathless. “Mike. You really shouldn’t sell yourself short.”

A relieved laugh burst from my lips. I’d been half expecting her to slap me, never mind that she’d started it. “I think that ‘wow’ just made my night. Thank you.” I took a deep breath. Resting my forehead against hers, I forced myself to take control. “But, please tell me where you live so I can drive you home.”

“What?” Claire pulled away from me. “I already told you. I don’t want to go there.”

I nodded. “I know you did. But, come on, you’ve been drinking. Even if I thought you actually meant it, I still can’t take advantage of you like this.”

“Is that what’s bothering you?” She shook her head, gazing at me in disbelief. “So I’ve been drinking, Mike. So what? It’s not exactly the first time that’s happened you know. And, besides, isn’t that really the reason most people drink to begin with? So they can loosen up, release their inhibitions, forget about the rules they don’t want to follow?”

“Sleep with people they wouldn’t otherwise in a million years?”

“That too.” Laughter sparkled suddenly in her eyes. “Which is not always a bad thing, you know. And, besides...” Leaning in, she ran one hand up my chest. Her lips were only inches from mine; her voice husky and low. “I want you. If you’re trying to imply that’s only because I’m drunk, it’s not true.”

My heart was hammering in my chest. If I wanted to remain sane, I needed some space. Now. I pushed her away a little. “Claire. Stop kidding around. You know it’s true.”

“It’s not! Not even a little.”

“Oh, it isn’t? Really? I’ve known you for months. How come this is the first time it’s come up then?”

“Well, I mean,” Grinning, she peeked up at me through her lashes. “I don’t always sleep with everyone I meet within minutes of meeting them either, you know. Besides... a million years, Mike? That’s a really long time.”

“I know how long it is.” And I figured it was maybe half as long as it was gonna take me to forget that kiss. Or to stop wanting to kiss her again. Right now. But, want it or not, it wasn’t going to happen.

A petulant frown creased Claire’s brow. “You can’t possibly believe I’m so drunk I don’t know what I’m doing? Or do you think I’m gonna wake up tomorrow morning and wonder, what the hell was I thinking last night?”

That was exactly what I thought. I felt my jaw clench. “You might.”

She shook her head. “I won’t”

“Your address,” I repeated stubbornly.

Uttering an exasperated sigh, Claire collapsed against the car door. Arms folded, she glared at me. “You know, Mike, a little hesitation is endearing, too much feels like rejection. No woman likes that. And I can assure you I’m not anywhere near as drunk as I’d have to be to forget about this. Is that really what you want me to remember when I wake up tomorrow morning? That I asked you to take me to bed and you turned me down? Because I can promise you, I’m not gonna like it any better then.”

“Claire, I am not turning you down. I wouldn’t ever do that.”

“Oh, you’re not?”

“No! I—I… shit.” What the hell was I saying? Of course I was turning her down. What the fuck was wrong with me?

I couldn’t believe this conversation. And, as bad as the one I was having with her, it had nothing on the internal one I had going on with myself. It was like one of those old cartoons, where I had an angel on one shoulder and a devil on the other; both urging me on, both sounding incredibly convincing. Only one of them could be right and, as usual, that would be the one telling you what you didn’t want to hear.

“Look, I don’t want you waking up tomorrow and remembering I took advantage of you while you were drunk.” That would be the worst. I was pretty sure that would be worse than any of the alternatives. Wouldn’t it?

“Why don’t we let me worry about how I’m going to feel about things in the morning, hmm?” Claire arched an eyebrow, clearly waiting for me to give in.

I said nothing.

“Oh, for God’s sake,” she fumed. “It’s just sex, Mike. It’s fun. It feels good. It’s supposed to be enjoyable. If you’re looking for something you can feel guilty about, I suggest you run a few stop signs on the way home.”

“Claire...”

She shook her head sadly, shoulders sagging, and I could tell I’d finally worn her down. Winning had never left me feeling so shitty. But I was wrong. She wasn’t done. Not quite yet.

Taking a deep breath, Claire raised her head and fixed me with a steely gaze. Her voice, when she spoke, was clear, quiet, sad. But not the voice of someone who was intoxicated. Not even a little. “There have been a few things in my life I’ve regretted doing, Mike. If I live long enough, I’m sure there’ll be more. Sleeping with you tonight would not have been one of them. Can you say the same, if you turn me down?”

And, no, God help me, I couldn’t say that. Without another word, I put the car in gear and floored the gas. What else was there to say, after all?

“Now, that’s more like it,” Claire murmured happily, settling back in her seat and snapping her seatbelt back into place.

A man can only withstand so much temptation. And, when the choice is one of being damned if you do, damned if you don’t, well, that’s really not much of a choice now, is it?




Saturday, August 27, 2022

Bring It Back(list) Let Me Count the Ways by PG Forte

 

         

The LA Love Lessons series recently got pretty new covers! Here's an excerpt--it's a little long, but it's one of my favorite scenes) and all the usual info.

Let Me Count the Ways
LA Love Lessons, Book 3
Buy Links: https://books2read.com/u/bpzWKk

She's thinking fling, he's thinking forever.

Sexy former film star Claire Calhoun is used to having her pick of studly young men. Now that she and Derek have called it quits, however, the actress-turned-entrepreneur is feeling vulnerable. After one mojito too many at a party one night, she decides it would be fun to try something new-in this case, Mike Sherman, her staid accountant and long-time fan.

Claire has been Mike's fantasy since the first time he saw her bare it all for the camera. Now that she's in his bed he'll do whatever's necessary to keep her there. But he's not a stalker, right? He's just a devoted fan.

NEW: look for a new Christmas story featuring Mike and Claire available this Christmas as part of the Let's Get Naughty  antho available for pre-order now: https://books2read.com/letsgetnaughty

Claire was looking at me strangely when I finished talking. “That is a very romantic story.”

“You think so?”

“Mm-hm. And it’s a beautiful car.”

Well, that part I agreed with. “It is. It’s a classic. Beautiful, elegant, it can’t ever really go out of style. And it handles... well, like I always knew it would.” Suddenly, I remembered that she wasn’t feeling well. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have gone on so long. You must be bored.”

Claire shook her head. “Not a bit. And don’t be sorry. I asked, remember?” Then she flashed that wonderful smile at me again. “Why don’t we get going now?”

I nodded, feeling just a little sorry because this was a moment I knew wouldn’t likely come again. It would have been nice to stretch it out a little longer.

If only she were feeling better. If only I’d thought to pack a picnic, a blanket, a bottle of wine. But, given the circumstances—really not a good idea. I’d started the car when I remembered, “I still don’t know where you live.”

“That’s all right,” she said as she re-fastened her seatbelt. “I don’t want to go there anyway.”

My eyebrows rose. “Well, then, where are we going?”

Her hands stilled on the buckle. She looked at me questioningly. “I thought... your house. No?”

My house?”

She nodded. “Mm-hm. You know, the one you said you helped design? I’m intrigued. I’d really like to see it.”

“But... that’s... that’s all the way out in Topanga Canyon.” Surely she didn’t expect me to drive all the way out there, then back here, then back out there again? All in one night? Or was she so drunk the idea seemed reasonable?

Claire’s lips quirked. “I know where it is. Is there a problem?”

I sighed. That would be a Yes on the drunk question, wouldn’t it? “Look, Claire, that’s a little far for a joy ride, don’t you think?” I hinted, as gently as I could.

“Weren’t you planning on going home tonight anyway?”

“Yes. Once. But not... not two or three times.” Not that the idea of spending all that time alone with her wasn’t heavenly but... well, no, damn it, this was not quite what I’d had in mind. “I know I said the drive back into town only takes a matter of minutes but, even so, those minutes do add up. And I’ve driven out there and back once tonight already. Besides, it’s getting a little late. Wouldn’t you rather I just take you home now?”

Claire was staring at me fixedly, as though attempting to puzzle something out. Finally, “Michael, I thought you understood? When I asked you to take me home I meant I wanted to spend the night with you.”

This time, I knew for certain I was hearing things. I shook my head, hoping to clear it. “Spend the night?”

She nodded. “With you. Yes. Is something wrong?”

The only thing wrong was the way the blood had left my skull, headed straight for my dick. Somehow, I’d have thought that would make my brain feel clearer, but it didn’t. “Just—Jesus, how much did you have to drink back there anyhow?”

Laughing, Claire slipped her seatbelt off again. She leaned in close and lifted one of her hands to frame my face. Her fingers felt as cool as they had before; but this was even better than before because this time she was touching me on purpose. Her eyes were dark, her smile was sultry and her voice and her words were something out of a dream. “You’re a very sweet man, Mike. You shouldn’t sell yourself short.” Then she kissed me.

For a moment, I think I forgot who either of us was. We were simply Man and Woman and nothing had ever felt more right. Her lips were soft, her scent was sweet and everything male in me responded. Mine. Fierce and insistent, the instinct to claim her, to take her as my own—now, tonight, forever—overrode everything else.

I kissed her back, tugging her hard against me, my tongue coaxing hers into play. Touching everything I could get my hands on, I practically tore the material of her dress as I sought for the zipper. Then my hands registered the feel of the sequined gown they were coasting over—the same glimmering garment I’d been trying, all evening, not to stare at. Suddenly, I remembered where I was and who I was with.

“Claire. Oh, my God. I’m sorry, I—”

She opened her eyes. Something dark flickered in their depths—heat and passion and something else. Alarm, maybe?

“Wow.” Her voice emerged hoarse and breathless. “Mike. You really shouldn’t sell yourself short.”

A relieved laugh burst from my lips. I’d been half expecting her to slap me, never mind that she’d started it. “I think that ‘wow’ just made my night. Thank you.” I took a deep breath. Resting my forehead against hers, I forced myself to take control. “But, please tell me where you live so I can drive you home.”

“What?” Claire pulled away from me. “I already told you. I don’t want to go there.”

I nodded. “I know you did. But, come on, you’ve been drinking. Even if I thought you actually meant it, I still can’t take advantage of you like this.”

“Is that what’s bothering you?” She shook her head, gazing at me in disbelief. “So I’ve been drinking, Mike. So what? It’s not exactly the first time that’s happened you know. And, besides, isn’t that really the reason most people drink to begin with? So they can loosen up, release their inhibitions, forget about the rules they don’t want to follow?”

“Sleep with people they wouldn’t otherwise in a million years?”

“That too.” Laughter sparkled suddenly in her eyes. “Which is not always a bad thing, you know. And, besides...” Leaning in, she ran one hand up my chest. Her lips were only inches from mine; her voice husky and low. “I want you. If you’re trying to imply that’s only because I’m drunk, it’s not true.”

My heart was hammering in my chest. If I wanted to remain sane, I needed some space. Now. I pushed her away a little. “Claire. Stop kidding around. You know it’s true.”

“It’s not! Not even a little.”

“Oh, it isn’t? Really? I’ve known you for months. How come this is the first time it’s come up then?”

“Well, I mean,” Grinning, she peeked up at me through her lashes. “I don’t always sleep with everyone I meet within minutes of meeting them either, you know. Besides... a million years, Mike? That’s a really long time.”

“I know how long it is.” And I figured it was maybe half as long as it was gonna take me to forget that kiss. Or to stop wanting to kiss her again. Right now. But, want it or not, it wasn’t going to happen.

A petulant frown creased Claire’s brow. “You can’t possibly believe I’m so drunk I don’t know what I’m doing? Or do you think I’m gonna wake up tomorrow morning and wonder, what the hell was I thinking last night?”

That was exactly what I thought. I felt my jaw clench. “You might.”

She shook her head. “I won’t”

“Your address,” I repeated stubbornly.

Uttering an exasperated sigh, Claire collapsed against the car door. Arms folded, she glared at me. “You know, Mike, a little hesitation is endearing, too much feels like rejection. No woman likes that. And I can assure you I’m not anywhere near as drunk as I’d have to be to forget about this. Is that really what you want me to remember when I wake up tomorrow morning? That I asked you to take me to bed and you turned me down? Because I can promise you, I’m not gonna like it any better then.”

“Claire, I am not turning you down. I wouldn’t ever do that.”

“Oh, you’re not?”

“No! I—I… shit.” What the hell was I saying? Of course I was turning her down. What the fuck was wrong with me?

I couldn’t believe this conversation. And, as bad as the one I was having with her, it had nothing on the internal one I had going on with myself. It was like one of those old cartoons, where I had an angel on one shoulder and a devil on the other; both urging me on, both sounding incredibly convincing. Only one of them could be right and, as usual, that would be the one telling you what you didn’t want to hear.

“Look, I don’t want you waking up tomorrow and remembering I took advantage of you while you were drunk.” That would be the worst. I was pretty sure that would be worse than any of the alternatives. Wouldn’t it?

“Why don’t we let me worry about how I’m going to feel about things in the morning, hmm?” Claire arched an eyebrow, clearly waiting for me to give in.

I said nothing.

“Oh, for God’s sake,” she fumed. “It’s just sex, Mike. It’s fun. It feels good. It’s supposed to be enjoyable. If you’re looking for something you can feel guilty about, I suggest you run a few stop signs on the way home.”

“Claire...”

She shook her head sadly, shoulders sagging, and I could tell I’d finally worn her down. Winning had never left me feeling so shitty. But I was wrong. She wasn’t done. Not quite yet.

Taking a deep breath, Claire raised her head and fixed me with a steely gaze. Her voice, when she spoke, was clear, quiet, sad. But not the voice of someone who was intoxicated. Not even a little. “There have been a few things in my life I’ve regretted doing, Mike. If I live long enough, I’m sure there’ll be more. Sleeping with you tonight would not have been one of them. Can you say the same, if you turn me down?”

And, no, God help me, I couldn’t say that. Without another word, I put the car in gear and floored the gas. What else was there to say, after all?

“Now, that’s more like it,” Claire murmured happily, settling back in her seat and snapping her seatbelt back into place.

A man can only withstand so much temptation. And, when the choice is one of being damned if you do, damned if you don’t, well, that’s really not much of a choice now, is it?




Tuesday, August 23, 2022

Writing Out Of Season

I  think one of the hardest parts of writing, for me, is finding the right head space, tricking myself into slipping out of my physical reality and into a fictional world. It can also be hard coming back out of that other world, but that's usually not a problem. 

The book I'm currently working on is set at Christmas. I'm writing a story about a couple stranded in the snow, making love in front of the fire in a cozy cabin in the mountains while I'm sweating through a summer heat wave. This isn't the first time I've done this--I'm sure it won't be the last--so I thought I'd put together a small list of tips on how to trick your brain into feeling the out of season vibes. 

The main thing you want to do is to involve all of your senses--or at least as many as possible.

I'm something of a scent junkie (you can check out my posts HERE, HERE and HERE for more about that). So I generally keep a lot of essential oils and scented candles around anyway. For this book I'm mostly sticking to bayberry candles, frankincense incense, pine and peppermint essential oils, and gingerbread-scented wax melts in a diffuser. 

Sight is a bit more tricky because nothing here looks even remotely snowy or mountainous. But I have a pice of black-and-white speckled granite that I picked up in Tahoe. I've hung a few ornaments near my desk. My computer desktop is a Christmas book cover. And I've broken out the Christmas mugs--including my new favorite a big, red, Rae Dunn, double-sided mug that has naughty on one side, nice on the other. 

Sound is super easy. Spotify has tons of Christmas playlists. A lot of times the instrumental covers are my go-to because I have a tendency to get distracted by the lyrics. I've also created my own playlist for this specific book: Christmasing With You

Taste is another easy one. I've been snacking on candy canes and making my own gingerbread lattes and mulled wine. Most years, I keep a carton of eggnog and a bag of cranberries in the freezer to aid me in my holiday writing, but I moved last January, so this year I don't have either of those. Republic of Tea's Red Velvet Cuppa Hot Chocolate tea is nothing at all like eggnog, but it's doing the trick. I would like to find some savory flavors, but nothing's come to mind so far. Thanksgiving sandwiches? The red and green holiday lasagna that's a bitch to make but definitely evokes the holidays? I might have to bite the bullet. We'll see.

Touch is the toughest because I'm not donning fluffy socks and a sweater. I might have to settle for wrapping my hands around a mug of something warm or taking a holiday-scented bath. Or luring my husband under the mistletoe? Yeah, that might be my best bet. 

Christmasing With You will release on November 1st as part of the Let's Get Naughty holiday anthology--available for pre-order now!

Let's Get Naughty 
A Limited Edition Romance Anthology 

If you think it's too soon to get on Santa's naughty list...think again. 

Cancel your plans and spend this holiday season with 26 romance authors who have teamed up to bring you a delicious holiday treat. 

This collection will have it all: fake relationships, second chances, enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, workplace romance, age gap, CEO’s, bikers, and falling for the best friend’s brother. 

Each of the authors will have an unforgettable, steamy story. So come on over, grab a blanket, and get started on finding your next favorite author today. 

Let’s Get Naughty is the perfect anthology for you to binge this holiday season.

Monday, August 22, 2022

HERE BE NEWS For Monday August 22, 2022

 




 Monday August 22, 2022 

Welcome to HERE BE NEWS, where each monday we bring you all the latest from the fantasy romance authors at Here Be Magic:



Thursday August 18, 2022: Deborah Bailey comes to the aid of authors frustrated with social media with her post, Three Book Marketing Ideas.


                         


New!

UNDERCOVER SUPERHERO
A Humorous Contemporary Fantasy Romance
by Linda Mooney writing as Carolyn Gregg
Word Count: 21.6K
$2.99 e

FREE ON KINDLE UNLIMITED FOR A LIMITED TIME

Wally Finkelstein is your average Joe. Your typical underdog—not super attractive, not super wealthy, but he does have stability and happiness to offer. And to his girlfriend’s surprise, he turns out to be super in other departments.

He’s always been very attentive to the opposite sex, never leaving them unsatisfied. But having not found “the one” yet, Wally hasn’t been ready to give himself fully. April Daily has changed that, and when they finally do the deed, he wants to shout it from the rooftops…and somehow finds himself soaring above them.

Turns out Wally has a history he knew nothing about. Can this ordinary Joe live up to extraordinary expectations? More importantly, can his relationship with April survive the kind of demands this revelation will bring? 

Excerpt and Buy Link

Friday, August 19, 2022

New! UNDERCOVER SUPERHERO, a Humorous Contemporary Fantasy Romance by Linda Mooney writing as Carolyn Gregg

New!

UNDERCOVER SUPERHERO
A Humorous Contemporary Fantasy Romance
by Linda Mooney writing as Carolyn Gregg
Word Count: 21.6K
$2.99 e

FREE ON KINDLE UNLIMITED FOR A LIMITED TIME

Wally Finkelstein is your average Joe. Your typical underdog—not super attractive, not super wealthy, but he does have stability and happiness to offer. And to his girlfriend’s surprise, he turns out to be super in other departments.

He’s always been very attentive to the opposite sex, never leaving them unsatisfied. But having not found “the one” yet, Wally hasn’t been ready to give himself fully. April Daily has changed that, and when they finally do the deed, he wants to shout it from the rooftops…and somehow finds himself soaring above them.

Turns out Wally has a history he knew nothing about. Can this ordinary Joe live up to extraordinary expectations? More importantly, can his relationship with April survive the kind of demands this revelation will bring? 

Excerpt and Buy Link

Thursday, August 18, 2022

Three Book Marketing Ideas

Social media options seem to be in a state of flux. Instagram is making major changes that have been interesting to watch. Whether they will help or hurt in the long term remains to be seen. 

TikTok continues to grow. But it has a different style than other apps and might not be the answer for everyone. Meanwhile, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn are the mainstays (so far) though they may not be a fit for every author.

If any of these platforms are working for you - great! But if not, here are some other options to consider.

Blogs & Newsletters – Several years ago I blogged regularly about topics for my non-fiction book about careers. I didn’t think anyone was reading the posts but surprisingly, they were. And I found that a few sites had added my blog to their "Top 10" lists.

Back when social media exploded, a lot of people switched over to Facebook pages and groups. Nothing wrong with that, but having your own space isn’t a bad idea. Especially considering how quickly algorithms change and how a platform can shift focus (as Instagram has shown) and disrupt everything you’ve been building.

Authors have varying opinions about newsletters, depending on if they find them helpful or not. There’s nothing wrong with connecting to your readers on a regular basis, so if you don’t have one it might be something to try. And, in spite of what some might believe, email hasn’t gone away.

Classes – If you have experience to share, why not present classes online or in-person? Do you have tips and tricks that other writers are looking for? If so, you can share your expertise while you promote yourself as an author. I’ve given a few fiction writing classes for a local library. It turned out to be a great experience, and the class participants enjoyed it so much that they ended up forming their own writing group. I’ve also presented online courses for the past few years on a few platforms. I get to meet other authors and share what I’ve learned about my craft.

Podcasts – They can be a great way to form a lasting connection with listeners who may also become readers for your books. Create a “one sheet” with your bio and book descriptions, then reach out to podcasts. You can do so directly or work with a service that does bookings (or have a PR person do it if you have one). Of course, you can also start your own podcast to feature your work.

There are many ways to market, make new connections and sell more books.

Monday, August 15, 2022

HERE BE NEWS For Monday August 15, 2022

 




 Monday August 15, 2022 

Welcome to HERE BE NEWS, where each monday we bring you all the latest from the fantasy romance authors at Here Be Magic:



Thursday August 11, 2022: Ruth Casie asks us all to judge a book by its cover. Specifically, her book The Lady and Her Duke.


     

For the month of August, you can get this e-book for $1.99!
But only on my website!
Just use Discount Code Word: DUCT

SANDEFLAY
Sensuous Contemporary Fantasy Romance
by Linda Mooney

Word Count:  121.5K
$5.99 e / $15.99 p / $24.95 a

Miranda Sayers's best friend is her wheelchair.  It has been her refuge for most of her twenty-six years.  But the time has come when her grandmother can no longer help take care of her.  Now Randi is faced with having to survive on her own, and unfortunately that future doesn't look promising.

Collin First's job on Earth is to find the Ducts between his world and this one.  As an Extinguisher, he has to eliminate those passageways before any of the dangerous creatures from Sandeflay can pass through and harm any humans.  The last thing he expected when he took the assignment was to find was the beautiful, crippled woman living one floor below his apartment.

Before either of them can contend with the impossibility of their relationship, Randi and Collin are thrown together, seeking each other's love and help.  And when circumstances force Randi to follow Collin to Sandeflay, danger and the greatest miracle of all awaits them both.

Warning:  Contains nearly invisible predators, extreme poverty, generations of love and loss, bucking the system, hot flashes, and an ending you only thought you saw coming!

Excerpt and Buy Links