Emma Lai's Blog

First off, let me say I think all children are extraordinary. How can they not be? They're learning everything for the first time, fresh explorers of a world old and familiar to us adults. How can that not be exciting to be around?

I haven't shared much about my boy here on my blog, though I've posted things about his school year on Facebook. So, to catch everyone up, I've got an almost five year old who's been in PPCD, or Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities, for over a year now, since he was a little more than three and a half.

As an infant and toddler, he always showed preference for me and a select few people. He didn't care to explore his world the same way a lot of children his age did, but he did have a knack for electronics and knew his ABCs by 18 months and how to count by 2. However, he didn't speak much, and by the time he was three he'd started having behavioral issues because of an inability to communicate with us about his needs and wants. Mommy could no longer read his mind and Daddy had never been able to.

There's a wonderful program for infant and toddlers called ECI, or Early Childhood Intervention, which is a state and federally funded program available in many (if not all) states. There's testing that has to get done, but by the time his inability to speak was starting to become an issue, he didn't qualify for that program because he wasn't far enough behind--it's a kind of graduated scale, so honestly, the earlier you try to get intervention, the better--so we had to wait a few months to test for PPCD.

Now, I am opposed to labeling children. I don't believe in girl toys and boy toys. I'm not a fan of saying my child is in a program for disabled children because he's more than able, but if not for society's penchant for trying to fit everything in a box, he wouldn't be getting the assistance he needed because we wouldn't have been able to afford the individual attention he gets in this program. Officially, he's been labeled as in the autism spectrum, though off the record the psychologist told us he was just extremely introverted. However to get him the help he needed, a label had to be slapped on to the form.

This past year has been extraordinary. Within weeks of starting school, the teachers had given him the tools he needed to start communicating. Within months, almost all his behavioral problems (aside from those every toddler and preschool age child has), had disappeared. And now, though he still has enunciation problems and is extremely introverted (and will no doubt always be since both my husband and I are), he has full conversations with my husband and I. My current favorite sentence of his is, "I've been knowing that." And yes, my precious son, has indeed been knowing all kinds of things even though he's just now able to articulate what exactly he's been knowing.

This summer he's in summer school again, to reinforce the skills he's learned to date, and in the coming school year, we'll be focused on getting him ready for kindergarten in a year. I'll admit I'm nervous. I worry about bullying. I was bullied well into high school, while my husband was so introverted he's not sure if he was ever bullied. I'm hoping my son is never bullied or if he is, he's like his dad and doesn't realize it. But all we can do is provide him the skills he needs to face the challenges of each day ahead.

So to everyone with an extraordinary child, I want to say, find whatever support or help you need, whether you're a parent of a child who's marching to the beat of the same drum as most other kids or one who marches to his/her/their own beat. We all have concerns and worries, good days and bad. Most parents understand where you're coming from and even if you don't want to talk to people you know, you'd be surprised how many parents post their honest thoughts about their daily trials and tribulations online. And on the good days, give your child a hug and yourself a smile. On the bad days, give yourself permission to take a time out, remind yourself you're human and that your child/children is/are new to this world and experiences and may not understand the why/how for the first twenty-two times. Then give him/her/them a hug for refreshing your view of the world.

And if you ever need an ear, I can normally be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/emmalaiwrites.

Meilin and The ChallengerFuturistic urban fantasy/fairy tale73 pagesApril 11, 2014 fromMusa Publishing: http://musapublishing.com/
BlurbMeilin King has never believed in fairy tales. Happy ever afters might have happened in the old days—before zombies. But this is 2089. When her father promises riches to the one who can rid their city of zombies, Meilin and her sisters rush to develop a solution that won’t bankrupt Dad.The war overseas left Will MacGregor disillusioned, but fighting zombies at home is a cause he can embrace. Meilin’s another. Tough but sweet, she might make him believe in life again, and maybe even love, if she doesn’t kick his ass first.When zombies kidnap her family, Meilin must rescue them. But can she and Will save them from the worst fate of all?
ExcerptA click sounded beside him. Meilin propped a rifle to her shoulder and sighted her aim toward the advancing zombies. “Let’s annihilate the party crashers, sisters.”A lopsided smile quirked his lips. “Not all the party crashers, I hope.”Her stance steady, she glanced over. “I might spare you.”Oh hell, I’m in love. Gunfire erupted on either side, but he couldn’t tear his focus from her. Amazing, how she braced against the kick of the rifle—her slight frame absorbed it and she fired away. Like you should be doing.As trained, he lifted the Uzi. Stunned, he could only watch as the girls split the zombies’ heads with one shot apiece, the most efficient kill he’d ever witnessed. The zombies at the front of the charge fell first. Those in the center scattered to either side. Hell, these women didn’t need his help. If only the soldiers in his platoon had been so deadly accurate.Better at least try to be helpful. He let the bullets fly. Too bad the walking dead couldn’t run; soon they dropped to the forest floor with the others.The tallest blonde held a strange set of binoculars to her face. “There, two more getting away.”Hard to sight them in the dark. He swiveled one of the dance floor spotlights in their direction. Momentarily blinded, the walking dead stopped walking. Meilin and the tall blonde aimed, and their shots cracked the zombies’ heads in two.Meilin tapped his shoulder. “Aim the light to three o’clock. I think I see a few more.”She stood so close, he grew woozy. Cherry blossoms. He struggled to fight off her intoxicating scent. He did as she asked, but his acute awareness centered on her. Built the way he liked, petite but powerful. She moved with purpose and grace, surety and intense focus in every action. Like the others, she felled the three zombies with one shot each, in exactly the spot needed for the final kill: their heads. Oh yeah, a woman who knew what she wanted and went after it, a force to be reckoned with.She rested the rifle butt against her hip. “What do you think, Lakshme? More hiding out there?”The girl with almond eyes shrugged. “Probably.”Yeah, most likely. Better make sure. “I’ll do a sweep and check.”The tallest blonde winced. “By yourself?”Lakshme smirked. “Aren’t we lucky? Superman’s here.”Meilin’s gaze swept over him. “Oh, I thought he was the Green Hornet.”The blonde’s lip curled. “Horn dog, more like.”What the hell was their problem? “Hey, I’m only trying to help.”“Good thing.” Lakshme’s voice turned breathy. “We’re helpless girls, after all.”Oh, man. Great first impression. “No, I didn’t—”Meilin raised her rifle and shot three times in quick succession. “Three more down. Now we need to find out how many we missed.”A no-nonsense babe. Excellent.The tall blonde jumped to the ground. “Pull up the truck so we can dump the bodies. Wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise for any latecomers.” She flashed a sardonic smile and headed for the nearest carcass.One sister disappeared into the brush. An engine roared, and a delivery truck backed into the site, halted, and the doors flew open.Once they’d loaded the last of the zombie bodies, Will blew out a breath. The tall blonde latched the door closed. How did they all still appear ready freshly showered and ready for a night of dancing? They had this routine down, to the last detail.“What now?” he asked.The tall blonde poked a finger into his chest. “Now you forget everything you saw here, and we won’t have to incinerate you with the rest of them.”Forget? He glanced at Meilin. Not happening. “You might find me useful. And I want to learn more about your operation. It’s impressive. Mr. King’s looking to hire—”The blonde grabbed his shirt, her grimace eye level with him. “Don’t ever mention him again.”Not speak of their father? He studied Meilin for a clue.She wrenched the blonde’s arm. “Back off, Zoe. He’s harmless.”Zoe shoved Meilin, who stumbled backward and lost her balance.Landing on her butt, she looked up at Will with sadness. “Sorry.”His heart lurched. Hopefully, not sorry she met him. “For what?”A hard thud to the back of his head came in answer. His knees hit the dance floor, and he toppled over.
Book videoDirect link:  http://youtu.be/1B_1Ahmy-sc
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About CateCate Masters has made beautiful central Pennsylvania her home, but she’ll always be a Jersey girl at heart. When not spending time with her dear hubby, she can be found in her lair, concocting a magical brew of contemporary, historical, and fantasy/paranormal stories with her cat Chairman Maiow and dog Lily as company. Look for her at http://catemasters.blogspot.com and in strange nooks and far-flung corners of the web.
Catch up to CateEmail: cate.masters@gmail.comFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cate-Masters/89969413736?ref=tsTwitter:  @CateMasters

March heralds in Spring and its air of possibilities, rebirth, and fresh dreams.
What’s your favorite thing about Spring?I love when the flowers and trees start blooming.  I live in Georgia, and we have lovely dogwood and magnolia trees.
What’s a must-have for Spring?Chap stick and moisturizer.  The season change over makes for some really dry skin for me, and chap stick and moisturizer are necessities. 
Spring cleaning. A must or a bust?It’s a must for us.  I’m a pack rat and after a while, even I get tired of clutter.  We’ve actually started doing ‘Spring Cleaning’ once a month so that it isn’t so overwhelming.
Where do you like to write during the season?I love to sit under the trees and listen to nature. 
Any fun trips planned?Unfortunately, not right now, but soon.  Oh very soon…I’m trying to talk the husband into a trip to Disney World.  Or Washington DC.  I’d love to see the cherry trees in bloom.

The Goddess: a female deity who represents strength, love, dignity, sexuality, motherhood, wrath, peace, the elements, and so much more. She is the symbol of every woman who has ever been or will ever come to be. She comes from a myriad of places and beliefs, her image always changing, but her presence always there. In this collection of fourteen beautifully written stories and three lovely original artworks, the Goddess rises in many unique forms to remind the world of the strength and beauty that is woman and the connection she has with all things.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00J4PE78I/?tag=smarturl-20

Stories Include:
Warrior Goddess ….. Rebecca Poole
Down came the Queen of Heaven ….. Aubrey Diamant
Bia ….. Samantha Ketteman
Carmaterdea ….. Sinead MacDughlas
Goddess of My Heart ….. Michael Cross
Her ….. Rebecca Poole
A Goddess’s Revenge ….. Catherine Stovall
Love, Lust, Beauty ….. Jackie McMahon
Hunting the Dark ….. Marion C. Lanier
Mother of Monsters ….. Andrea L. Staum
Goddess Touched ….. Elizabeth L. Lance
The Cast Iron Skillet ….. Shebat Legion
The Weaver ….. Zoe Adams
Shield of Light ….. Beth W. Patterson
Beautiful Secrets of the Sea ….. Jackie McMahon
Vanquish ….. Mariana Thorn
Falling For You ….. Cecilia Clark Cover design by Dave J. Ford
****All proceeds from the Rise of the Goddess anthology will go to benefit the Elliott Public Library****

March heralds in Spring and its air of possibilities, rebirth, and fresh dreams.
What’s your favorite thing about Spring?The snow melting!! We’ve had a lot of snowfall here this year, and despite slushy roads and dirty vehicles, I love the warmer temperatures and green grass poking through the white stuff.
What’s a must-have for Spring?A barbecue! I love breaking out the barbecue and grilling something. You can always tell around here when it’s warm enough because you can smell all the neighbours cooking!
Spring cleaning. A must or a bust?I don’t specifically clean in the spring – unless the spirit moves me. So, it might be spring, summer, fall….
Where do you like to write during the season?I always write at the same place – my PC. I used to try to write outside with a laptop but prefer to block off time inside and then just enjoy the outdoors – whether it’s gardening or playing with the kiddies J
Any fun trips planned?We always plan day trips to the beach but so far, nothing for a significant block of time. That could change tho!
My newest release is Pleasure Island, available in ebook and audio. AmazonAudibleBarnes and NobleAReBookstrandVisit with me at my website: www.kelliekamryn.com
One lucky commenter will win a small prize pack of Kahlua chocolates and some other author swag!
Chelsea Hunter didn’t come to the resort looking for sex. Jake Davis intends to change her mind. Will they be able to turn up the heat, or will their visit to Pleasure Island leave them cold?
After finalizing her divorce, Chelsea Hunter came to the resort island of Paradise for some peace and quiet so she could figure out what her next step would be. She hadn’t expected to find herself at an exotic hotel dedicated to pleasures of the flesh. Too bad she doesn’t want sex.
Jake Davis is back in Paradise after visiting a year ago when his own marriage fell apart. This time his fantasy is to guide a woman through her sexual journey. He hadn’t counted on being paired with the only woman in Paradise who prefers privacy over pleasure! Will Jake be able to discover what Chelsea truly needs, or will their journey to Paradise remain unfulfilled?Excerpt:She didn’t know what to say. The man standing before her had just announced his fantasy of seeing to her every sexual need. A dream come true or a nightmare? She hadn’t been with anyone in over a year. Panic set in. Fantasizing was one thing, but the thought of actually being naked with someone—terrifying. She liked her body, but it was far from perfect. When she didn’t respond, he strode to the dresser. Chelsea followed and peeked inside when he opened the top drawer. Her cheeks burned with heat, but her pussy reacted with a fierce throbbing. Inside were various personal pleasure devices of all shapes and sizes. She closed the drawer with a snap, nearly catching his fingers. He raised an eyebrow at her, and opened it again. “For when you don’t need me.” Reacting like a cornered animal, she snapped at him again. “Well, I don’t need you, and I don’t think I’ll need those either.” “Chelsea…”  He took hold of her shoulders and pressed his hard body into her backside, nestling his erection between her ass cheeks. Her heart rate and breathing quickened, and she gasped. Holy fuck. Her knees buckled, but he held her up. And what a nice body to be held up against. Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad…His deep voice rumbled in her ear as his hands slid down her arms, his fingertips brushing against the back of her hands. “There’s nothing wrong with exploring your sexuality.”  “I didn’t say there was.” A shiver ran through her, and her voice came out a breathy rasp. “But I didn’t come here for sex.” “It’s yours for the taking.” His lips brushed the side of her neck, and she melted into him as he palmed her belly. God, it felt good to have a man’s hands on her even if there was a layer of fabric between them. Hot, insistent hands that knew what they were doing. The only thing she focused on was the sensation of his palms sliding up her belly to cup her breasts. She whimpered. It had been too long without a man’s touch, and she was a touchy-feely person. “This doesn’t feel so bad, does it?” “No, it doesn’t.” Her whispered words could barely be heard. “If you want me to stop—all you have to say is no. My job isn’t to force you into anything. Only to give you pleasure.” His fingertips glided down her abdomen again, and made their way down to the top of her thighs, gathering up her skirt. “B-but you don’t work here.” He smiled against her neck. “Use your imagination, honey. I’m here to give you what you need. No strings. No commitment. Only as much satisfaction as you can handle. Why not go for it?” One finger toyed with her clit through her underwear. Her eyes rolled back in her head, and he nipped her earlobe. “Tell me to stop now. Because I can feel your heat and I want to experience it.” She meant to stop him, gather her wits to think clearly, but when he rubbed the heel of his hand into her mound, she groaned, wriggling back into his erection. “Don’t stop.”

March heralds in Spring and its air of possibilities, rebirth, and fresh dreams.
What’s your favorite thing about Spring?
The awakening of nature. I love to go outdoors to plant flowers in pots, and arrange boutiques (even plastic ones) in vases to brighten up my house.
What’s a must-have for Spring?
Colorful nail polishes—pinks, purples, blues, yellow. Nature is a rainbow of colors in the Spring and we can add a touch of color to our nails to mimic the beauty around us.
Spring is also about new love, which brings me to my second must—collecting a stack of new romances novels. It’s always a joy to read a sweet romance to celebrate the arrival of Spring.
Spring cleaning. A must or a bust?
A must. I develop a lot of clutter in my desk drawers and in closets, so it’s nice to go through all of that, reorganize, and toss out the things I don’t need any more.
Where do you like to write during the season?
On my porch where I can enjoy the warmer temperatures, the blue skies, and the smell of freshly cut grass.
Any fun trips planned?
Unfortunately, no. Do you have any fun trips planned?  If so, please tell me all about them. I’ll live vicariously through you. :)
Genre: Romantic SuspenseFormat: eBookPage Count: 51 (short story)Official Release Date: March 5th 2014Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Book Links:Amazon US: http://amzn.com/B00GVK921GAmazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00GVK921G Amazon Canada: http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00GVK921G/ Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18757793-hurricane-crimesBlurb:
*Hurricane Crimes is a short story.*
After her car breaks down, Beth Kennedy is forced to stay in Florida, the target of Hurricane Sabrina. She stocks up supplies, boards up windows, and hunkers down to wait out the storm, but her plan unravels when she witnesses a car accident. Risking her life, she braves the winds to save the driver. Just when she believes they are safe, she finds out the man she saved could possibly be more dangerous than the severe weather.
Donovan Goldwyn only wanted to hide from the police, but the hurricane shoved his car into a tree. Now he's trapped with a beautiful woman while the evidence that can prove his innocence to a brutal crime is out there for anyone to find.
As Hurricane Sabrina wreaks havoc, Beth has no other choice but to trust Donovan to stay alive. But will she survive, or will she become another hurricane crime?  Excerpt:
On the television set, which was fighting to stay alive, was breaking news. She caught bits and pieces of it as she emptied the bowl of blood-tainted water and threw out the cloth. It was about a high-speed chase that had occurred about a half-hour ago. Beth shook her head. Apparently, Donovan wasn’t the only idiot driving around during a hurricane.
She went back into the living room and began replacing all the medical supplies into the first-aid kit. Behind her, a reporter was explaining that the driver of the car was believed to be a murder suspect.
“The name of the—”
The lights flashed, prompting Beth to snatch up her flashlight.
“Donovan Goldwyn.”
Her fingers went cold around the plastic tube as ice frosted her veins. She straightened her spine and turned stiffly to the television, her heart wasn’t beating in her chest. On the screen was the picture of the man who was right now changing in her bedroom. Above it was a caption in bold letters that read—SUSPECT.
She gripped the flashlight in her frozen fingers. Her heart thudded fearfully. She stared into the immobilized violet eyes through the glass.             “Oh my god,” she gasped.
She had brought a murderer into her home!
Bio:
Chrys Fey’s debut, Hurricane Crimes, was published by The Wild Rose Press. Mid 2014, she will be coming out with her second romantic-suspense eBook, 30 Seconds. She created the blog Write with Fey to offer aspiring writers advice and inspiration. She lives in Florida where she is ready to battle the next hurricane that comes her way.
Author Links:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/chrysfeyBlog: www.writewithfey.blogspot.comGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/ChrysFeyGoogle +: www.google.com/+ChrysFey   

March heralds in Spring and its air of possibilities, rebirth, and fresh dreams.
What’s your favorite thing about Spring? Living so many years in the upper Midwest, where winter locked us in and pummeled us for far too long, my favorite thing has always been sitting in the warm sunshine, smelling lilacs, seeing green, and hearing the spring birdsongs. A breath of fresh air, quite literally. Now that hubs and I live, work, and travel fulltime in our motorhome in the Southwest, the differences aren’t quite so pronounced. We’ve enjoyed warm daytime temps all winter and have been able to hike, bike and generally be outdoors in comfort whenever we’ve wished. Still, the birdsongs have begun to change, even cactus are starting to bloom, and the air carries a different, fresher scent. It’s time.
What’s a must-have for Spring? Shorts, definitely. Sandals. Sunscreen. Saucy sun-dresses (hubs likes those, too – me in them, that is). Deck chairs for soaking up the sunshine. And time – precious minutes to spend just sitting taking it all in.
Spring cleaning. A must or a bust? Hah! Some people might think living in a motorhome we might not need much cleaning, but you’d be amazed how much work it takes to stow our belongings, keep them neat and organized, find them, toss what we don’t need, and stay spic and span. We can’t afford to wait for spring. It’s a daily requirement. One of our by-lines is if we buy anything, we have to throw something else out in order to make room for it. Makes sticking to a budget easy, though!
Where do you like to write during the season? I have two favorites. My inside writing spot is on the gaucho in our motorhome living room – it’s part of the slide-out, so it’s almost like being in a window seat. I have windows at both ends plus along the entire side, a one-eighty view of whatever’s happening outside. It gives me comfort and makes me feel taken care of. My favorite outside spot, so far? We move around a lot, but our home base is not far from Las Vegas, and our home resort has a stunning cactus garden, with seating and even outlets where I can plug in my computer. I’ll attach a couple pics for you.
Any fun trips planned? Easy answer – all the time! But actually we tend to settle in one place for two to four months in between our travels. Right now for the month of March we’re near Saguaro National Park outside Tucson, getting ready for the Tucson Festival of books March 15, and loving the desert trails that abut our park boundary. We’re booked on a cruise along Mexico’s Baja California coast in May. July and August we plan to spend in the Pacific Northwest (to stay cool for summer). What I love about all this? If we pace our travels well, we can travel andkeep on writing, working as we go. It’s a win-win combination.
TUCSON FESTIVAL OF BOOKS, MARCH 15/16: For readers who live anywhere close to Tucson, come check us out on Saturday – we’re in booth #107, with romantic suspense and erotic romance books in print!
THE UNMASKING is our most recent release. We’ve set this romantic suspense in the far north woods of Minnesota, where we once lived. Our heroine, an undercover cop from Wisconsin, loves winter (as did we, when we lived up north) and throws herself into cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and whatever else is possible outdoors, no matter the temperature. Our hero, an anthropology professor, is a California boy who hates winter and can’t wait for spring, or better yet, his ticket out altogether. But this particular spring will sorely test them both as the campus stalker Nancy’s been hired to track down sets his sites on a spring ritual to end all rituals.
The Unmasking, by Adriana KraftRomantic Suspense, 87,000 wordsHeat rating: Four flames
BLURBWhose mask will crumble first— the enigmatic professor of Celtic Studies, the undercover cop masquerading as a co-ed, or the campus stalker, biding his time to strike again?
Is anthropology professor Matt Bayfield the Blackthorn College rapist, or a potential ally? Aloof and unapproachable, Matt has academic ambitions. He can’t escape Blackthorn College soon enough, and he doesn’t want any entanglements to slow down his exit.
Nancy Appleby would like nothing more than to solve the string of campus rape cases before Thanksgiving so she can go home. The last thing she wants is a relationship to complicate her life—but she’ll settle for a fling, especially when the sex sizzles.
The stalker has his own carefully crafted timetable, with a special date just for Nancy. Can Matt and Nancy force him out of his hidey-hole before it’s too late?
REVIEWS
Four and a half stars at Romance Junkies: From beginning to end, THE UNMASKING is a fascinating tale…I was intrigued at how the writing team is able to intertwine a love story with such horrifying circumstances in startling clarity. If you enjoy romantic suspense novels then I can definitely recommend THE UNMASKING. Chrissy D.
Five Stars at Amazon: One of the best stories ever written by Adriana Kraft…a truly great read. Could not put it down until I finished it.Amy B.
Five Stars at Goodreads: The suspense is so well done you don't know who the bad guy is until it's revealed in the book. The action is fast paced and kept my interest to the very end. Could not put the book down. Donna H.

BUY LINKS
Ebook  http://www.amazon.com/The-Unmasking-Adriana-Kraft-ebook/dp/B00IDVB6KQ
Print http://www.amazon.com/The-Unmasking-Adriana-Kraft/dp/0989469379/

EXCERPTChapter One
Who will be the next victim?
Nancy Appleby scanned the co-eds in the small lecture hall. Each could be his next prey. Each looked much younger than she remembered being as a full-time student. Each woman hung on Professor Bayfield’s well crafted words.
Was it the topic, Celtic Myths and Rituals, or was it the aloofness of the tall, dark-haired lecturer with the strong protruding chin that mesmerized? He did command attention. Although his tone was mild, Bayfield played with his audience like a polished actor. Clearly he was in control. Though he gestured but rarely, he moved like an athlete, comfortable in his body.
Nancy jotted notes on a yellow pad pretending to be no different than anyone else in the room. She glanced up at Bayfield, whose eyes had settled on her; they were piercing and inquisitive. Then he shifted his gaze, but he’d noticed her, was thinking about her. Why? She’d done everything she could to blend in. He hadn’t seemed particularly troubled by her presence, just curious.
Nancy redirected her attention to the individuals sitting in front of her. She’d arrived early to claim an aisle seat in the back row. The raised auditorium layout provided an advantageous observation post. About sixty women and twenty men were in attendance, no doubt a decent turnout. Blackthorn College had a student body of less than two thousand.
Nancy scribbled more notes and then focused on the men in the room.
Was he in the lecture hall? Would he strike again, tonight? Or would the rapist stay in his hole, biding his time?

ABOUT ADRIANA KRAFT
Adriana Kraft is the pen name for a husband/wife team writing Erotic Romance for Two, Three or More. The award-winning pair has published over thirty erotic romance novels and novellas to outstanding reviews. Romantic pairings include straight m/f, lesbian, bisexual, ménage and polyamory, in both contemporary and paranormal settings.
ADRIANA KRAFT ON THE WEB
Website: http://adrianakraft.comBlog: http://adrianakraft.com/blog Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Adriana-Kraft/182846025133440Twitter http://twitter.com/AdrianaKraft

March heralds in Spring and its air of possibilities, rebirth, and fresh dreams.
What’s your favorite thing about Spring?
The feeling of a fresh start J I love it when the daffodils and crocus start coming through and the onset of summer doesn’t seem such an impossibility! The dog walks are a lot more appealing too.
What’s a must-have for Spring?
My conservatory – Love sitting out there with my laptop, lovely and warm with the sun shining through the windows. Happiness!
Spring cleaning. A must or a bust?
A bust! I am by no means a domestic goddess and never feel gripped by ‘spring clean mania’ – I clean when I have to, when I realize my baseboards are looking more gray than white, lol!
Where do you like to write during the season?
See above – my conservatory is my sanctuary J
Any fun trips planned?
We’ve booked a week’s holiday at my favorite place – a log cabin in North Wales. It is so beautiful and peaceful, in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by greenery and mountains. The internet access is super limited too which means lot of family time, reading and uninterrupted writing. Heaven!
She's ready to take back what's hers. 
Since the moment a local crime boss claimed ownership of her family's fairground, Sasha Todd has dreamed of righting the wrong. Now it's time to act, and backing down from the man's estranged son is definitelynot an option. After all, giving up her legacy to hot-blooded John Jordon means losing the chance to finally heal the wounds in her past. Stopping John in his tracks—and resisting the sizzle between them—is Sasha's best defense. But there's more to him than she thought, which changes everything. With what matters most at stake, she'll have to risk a brand-new future with John, or walk away from the man whose heart belongs to her.
Buy Links: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble
Rachel lives with her husband and two young daughters in a small town near Bath in the UK.  After having several novels published by small US presses, she secured agent representation in 2011. In 2012, she sold two books to Harlequin Superromance and a further three in 2013. She also writes Victorian romance for Kensington--her debut was released in April 2013 and she has since signed for three more.
Rachel is a member of the Romantic Novelists Association and Romance Writers of America. When she isn’t writing, you’ll find Rachel with her head in a book or walking the beautiful English countryside with her family and beloved black Lab, Max. Her dream place to live is Bourton-on-the-Water in South West England.
She likes nothing more than connecting and chatting with her readers and fellow romance writers. Rachel would love to hear from you!
Links: Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook

February is such an odd month. It’s short on days and can be warm or cold, but it also means Spring with all its potential is only a month away.
What’s your favorite thing about February?
Definitely knowing Spring is just around the corner – as I live in the UK, we seem to have more wind and rain than sunshine and heat. Those blessed days of sunshine are sacred to me and I make the most of them!
Whether you celebrate Valentine’s or not, you can’t ignore the candy. What’s your favorite kind?
Would it make me unpopular if I said I don’t eat much candy at all? I am not a chocolate person either. Oh, lord…waiting for things to be thrown at me now, lol! My vice is chilled white wine… ;)
If you could add three more days to the month, what would you do with them?
Knowing me, I’d probably work! I love to walk with my family and beloved black Lab though so for me one of the best things to do in February is go for long walks in the English countryside as the daffodils are blooming. Beautiful!
March Madness. Do you know what it is?
My mania waiting for the Spring to come??
What are you looking forward to this Spring?

I turn 40 in April so I’m really looking forward to the celebrations – my husband and I (who also turns 40 this year) are planning to make a mark with this special birthday and celebrate several times throughout the year. First up, is a meal at my favorite restaurant with 12 of my closest friends and their partners. Can’t wait!
Laura Robinson has always been dazzled by the glamour of the stage. But perhaps acting and selling one’s favors are not so different—for Laura must feign pleasure with the men she beds to survive. Now, with her only friend at death’s door and a ruthless pimp at her heels, escaping her occupation seems impossible. Hoping to attract a gentleman, she attends the theater. Yet the man Laura captivates is no customer, but a rising star and playwright…
Adam Lacey has been driven to distraction since the moment he saw Laura. She is his ideal leading lady come to irresistible life—and so much more. Certain they can make the perfect team on and off stage, he is determined to win her heart—and discover her story. But that is precisely what Laura fears. And she has no idea that Adam harbors shameful secrets of his own. Will the truth free them to love—or destroy all their dreams…?
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Anthology of 8 Navy SEAL novellas by New York Times, USA Today and award-winning bestselling authors: Marliss Melton, Gennita Low, Teresa Reasor, Elle James, Delilah Devlin, Stephanie Tyler, J.M. Madden and Sharon Hamilton 

MUTINY'S BOUNTY by USA Today Bestselling author Delilah Devlin: Interested only in experiencing an adrenaline-packed adventure first-hand to give her credo when she books her clients’ adventure vacations, Lace McElhannon finds more excitement than she can handle when she meets and falls into bed with ex-SEAL Dex Haygood. Fresh from protecting transport ships from Somali pirates, Dex figures his latest job will be a cakewalk, until he finds himself in deep water, swimming with sharks and trying to protect Lace when the yacht they’re sailing on is taken.
His expression didn’t change. If anything, his eyes grew colder, narrowing.Was he counting in his head? Seeing how long she took to scurry up on the mattress? She moved deliberately slowly, rising fluidly and wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. Besides, anticipation kept her revved. Then she sat at the edge of the high mattress and scooted backward, trying not to rush even though she couldn’t wait for what came next.Dex was faster. He crawled quickly onto the mattress, pushed her to her back, and came down atop her, covering her from her shoulders to her feet, his strong legs pinning her as neatly as the weight of his torso.She couldn’t move, could hardly breathe. His cock pulsed between them. Still, she kept her breaths even, her chin tilted in defiance.“What am I going to do with you?” he murmured, his mouth hovering just above hers.“Anything you want, I’m guessing. It’s not like I can fight you,” she said it innocently,  eyes wide, but then the corners of her mouth curved. “Anything, so long as you slide this up inside me.” She rolled her hips to rub his cock.He grunted. “I’d like nothing better, but then, you’d win. And I can’t let that happen.”She arched a brow. “You do know sex doesn’t have to be a game, right? That we can both be winners.”He shook his head. “I don’t see sex as a game, but you’ve been bucking me since we met. You consider it a challenge, getting a guy exactly where you want, to do exactly what you want.”“Not true,” she whispered. “Not what I’m after, at all.”“Then tell me.” His voice softened. “Remember, no pride. No modesty. It’s just you and me.”She licked her lips, then drew a short breath, turning her head so he couldn’t see her eyes. Because hadn’t he already seen too much? “I want you to make me.”“Make you what?”“Make me obey. Let me fight, but never let me win.”After a long pause, he asked, “Forcibly?”The heated air from his single word brushed her cheek, and she nodded, holding her breath. His neutral tone hadn’t given her a clue what he was thinking. Her request wasn’t something she’d ever revealed to another man: her need to be taken. Because then, wouldn’t the guy think she wanted to be dominated in every other part of her life and their relationship? With Dex, she knew he was physically strong enough to give her what she needed, but they only had three days, and then they’d never see each other again. Her wish was a safe one. She could ask this and not fear him taking her over her life. Something she’d experienced with a boyfriend in college and would never risk again, thank you very much.A finger traced a line across her cheek then rubbed her bottom lip. “Look at me.”Stealing herself, she turned and met his gaze, surprised at the smoky heat she met. “If you give this...power... to me, I won’t let you change your mind. If you get scared, you’ll have to work through it.”She nodded, excitement causing her heart to thud inside her chest. “You don’t mind? Don’t think I’m crazy?”“We all have our fantasies, Lace. I have a few of my own.” And then he kissed her. A soft, hot brand on her mouth. Over too soon because he was moving away, kneeling beside her as he raked her body with a hot glance. His hard gaze swung back to her eyes. “Open your legs.”Sensing he’d already started the game, she shook her head and clenched her legs together, getting her elbows under her body and scooting toward the headboard. She didn’t even have time to gasp before he was on her, his hands gripping her ankles and spreading them. He quickly inserted his knees between hers to hold her open.A gasp escaped. She jackknifed up and shoved both hands at his chest.But he manacled her wrists and pushed them behind her back, holding them there with one hand, keeping her still while he put his free hand between her legs and cupped her mound. “This is mine, Lace. However I want.”She panted, shaking her torso, trying to free her hands, panic mixed with arousal—so heady a mix she felt as though her heart might explode. “Let me go.”He shook his head, one corner of his mouth curling upward, lending him a menacing look.Fuck, she loved that look. Knew it meant he was into this game.

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Up until recently, award-winning author Delilah Devlin lived in South Texas at the intersection of two dry creeks, surrounded by sexy cowboys in Wranglers. These days, she's missing the wide-open skies and starry nights, but loving her dark forest in central Arkansas with its eccentric characters and isolation--the better to feed her hungry muse! To Delilah, the greatest sin is driving between the lines because it's comfortable and safe. Her personal journey has taken her through one war, many countries, cultures, jobs and relationships to bring her to the place she travels now--writing sexy novels that hold more than a kernel of autobiography and often share a common thread of self-discovery and transformation. To learn more about Delilah Devlin, visit www.delilahdevlin.com.

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Authors of erotic romance often get teased about what kind of research they might delve into for the sake of their books – it’s a tough job, but somebody’s got to do it…**snicker, giggle, knowing wink.**
The research my husband and I engaged in for this spicy romantic suspense is a little different – some might say, it’s been our entire lives. We’ve both taught at universities (that’s where we met) and we know the academic life from the inside. The choices and struggles faced by our professorial hero, Anthropologist Matt Bayfield, are more familiar than we might like to admit.
Hubs is a sociologist with a specialty in criminology. I promise he’s drawn on this background immensely in creating our spunky female undercover cop, Nancy Appleby, in plotting the trajectory of the crimes and the mystery of solving t, and especially in understanding our truly creepy villain (who I won’t name, of course – that would spoil everything!).
We’ve both immersed ourselves in understanding Celtic culture and history for years – long before we envisioned this novel. Hubs has Welsh roots, and mine are Scotch-Irish on one side, so we feel an ancestral pull to that era and its understanding of seasons and cycles. It was easy to hand that passion over to our ersatz professor. We won’t say more about how it’s woven into the plot, but we think readers will like it.
We had a close call researching the technology we’ve handed our resourceful cop – hubs found himself on a website requesting security clearance for more information. Backed right out of that one! But found what we needed to know without tripping any more alarms.
The North Woods, where we’ve set the novel? A place we’ve lived and loved, and left, when the winters grew too much for us to handle. But while we lived there, we threw ourselves with a passion into the cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and crisp winter outings Nancy enjoys so much. Writing those scenes was like watching snippets from our own life on the screen.
The Unmasking was originally released in 2008 under a different pen name; rights reverted to us when the contract ran out, and we’ve decided to re-issue it as “ourselves.” We’ve thoroughly re-edited the book and incorporated helpful feedback from our beta readers

Our tag line is Erotic Romance for Two, Three, or More. Most of our published work has focused on the “three or more” side of the equation. We’re happy to offer a book focused on the “two” element, and we think readers will find the sex is no less sizzling. And no, we’re not going to share any research we might have indulged in to write those scenes.  


February 15, 2014B&B PublishingISBN  978-0-9894693-6-4;   ASIN   B00IDVB6KQRomantic Suspense, 87,000 wordsHeat rating: Four flames
BLURBWhose mask will crumble first— the enigmatic professor of Celtic Studies, the undercover cop masquerading as a co-ed, or the campus stalker, biding his time to strike again?
Is anthropology professor Matt Bayfield the Blackthorn College rapist, or a potential ally? Aloof and unapproachable, Matt has academic ambitions. He can’t escape Blackthorn College soon enough, and he doesn’t want any entanglements to slow down his exit.
Nancy Appleby would like nothing more than to solve the string of campus rape cases before Thanksgiving so she can go home. The last thing she wants is a relationship to complicate her life—but she’ll settle for a fling, especially when the sex sizzles.
The stalker has his own carefully crafted timetable, with a special date just for Nancy. Can Matt and Nancy force him out of his hidey-hole before it’s too late?
REVIEWS
Four and a half stars at Romance Junkies: From beginning to end, THE UNMASKING is a fascinating tale…I was intrigued at how the writing team is able to intertwine a love story with such horrifying circumstances in startling clarity. One of the many things I adored about this story is that the main characters are flawed. They both make judgment errors and their mistakes and assumptions lead to some emotionally trying scenes that had me eagerly reading to find out how they were going to solve their conflicts - or at several points if they even would be able to remain together. If you enjoy romantic suspense novels then I can definitely recommend THE UNMASKING. Chrissy D.
Five Stars at Amazon: One of the best stories ever written by Adriana Kraft…a truly great read. Could not put it down until I finished it.Amy B.
Five Stars at Goodreads: The suspense is so well done you don't know who the bad guy is until it's revealed in the book. The action is fast paced and kept my interest to the very end. Could not put the book down. Donna H.

BUY LINKhttp://www.amazon.com/The-Unmasking-Adriana-Kraft-ebook/dp/B00IDVB6KQ
EXCERPTChapter One
Who will be the next victim?
Nancy Appleby scanned the co-eds in the small lecture hall. Each could be his next prey. Each looked much younger than she remembered being as a full-time student. Each woman hung on Professor Bayfield’s well crafted words.
Was it the topic, Celtic Myths and Rituals, or was it the aloofness of the tall, dark-haired lecturer with the strong protruding chin that mesmerized? He did command attention. Although his tone was mild, Bayfield played with his audience like a polished actor. Clearly he was in control. Though he gestured but rarely, he moved like an athlete, comfortable in his body.
Nancy jotted notes on a yellow pad pretending to be no different than anyone else in the room. She glanced up at Bayfield, whose eyes had settled on her; they were piercing and inquisitive. Then he shifted his gaze, but he’d noticed her, was thinking about her. Why? She’d done everything she could to blend in. He hadn’t seemed particularly troubled by her presence, just curious.
Nancy redirected her attention to the individuals sitting in front of her. She’d arrived early to claim an aisle seat in the back row. The raised auditorium layout provided an advantageous observation post. About sixty women and twenty men were in attendance, no doubt a decent turnout. Blackthorn College had a student body of less than two thousand.
Nancy scribbled more notes and then focused on the men in the room.
Was he in the lecture hall? Would he strike again, tonight? Or would the rapist stay in his hole, biding his time?

ABOUT ADRIANA KRAFT
Adriana Kraft is the pen name for a husband/wife team writing Erotic Romance for Two, Three or More. The award-winning pair has published over thirty erotic romance novels and novellas to outstanding reviews. Romantic pairings include straight m/f, lesbian, bisexual, ménage and polyamory, in both contemporary and paranormal settings.
ADRIANA KRAFT ON THE WEB
Website: http://adrianakraft.comBlog: http://adrianakraft.com/blog Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Adriana-Kraft/182846025133440Twitter http://twitter.com/AdrianaKraft