Dariel Raye's Blog
December 17, 2024
“Raw Silk” by Lisabet Sarai – A Multicultural Erotic Romance + $25 GC Giveaway
BLURB:In a foreign land, a woman discovers exotic new realms of the senses.“You were born to this. You may not understand, yet. You may not believe. But I will teach you.”When software engineer Kate O’Neill leaves her lover David to take a job in Thailand, she embarks on a sensual journey that will change her forever.In the glittering City of Angels, Kate becomes sexually involved with two very different men—a handsome and debauched member of the Thai aristocracy, and the charismatic, dominant proprietor of a sex bar. With Anand Rajchitraprasong, she discovers her own almost unlimited capacity for erotic pleasure. Meanwhile, Gregory Marshall shows her what she has hidden from herself: a deep desire to submit, to surrender herself body and soul to someone with the power and compassion to master her.Each lascivious adventure binds her more closely to her lovers. Then David comes to Bangkok, and Kate realizes that she must choose one of the three men who all desire her.Long considered an erotic classic, Raw Silk chronicles one woman’s intimate voyage toward love and self-understanding. This twenty-fifth anniversary edition has been freshly edited and includes a new introduction plus a bonus chapter.
EXCERPT“On your knees now.”Once again she felt a flare of resistance. Part of her, though, wanted to follow his direction. Strange pleasure flooded her as she sank to a kneeling position across from him. She looked at the floor, not daring to meet his eyes.“Pick up the panties in your mouth. Using just your mouth. Then bring them to me.”Still wearing her high-heeled shoes, she bent over to take the discarded briefs in her teeth. Her nostrils filled with her own musky scent and she felt a new surge of lust.Somehow knowing that this was what he wanted, Kate put her palms on the floor and crawled the short distance to the chair where her tormentor lounged comfortably. With her ass in the air, she felt even more vulnerable, and more aroused. He sat up, thighs apart, and gestured to her to come closer. Finally, she was at his feet, between his spread legs. She sat up, leaning back on her heels, offering him the garment in the manner of a family pet offering the newspaper.Gregory gave a little laugh, of delight more than mockery. He took the panties and held them to his face, inhaling deeply the womanly perfume with which they were soaked. “Wonderful!” he said. “Even better than I had hoped.”He leaned forward, cupped her chin in his hands, and searched her face. “Are you all right?” he asked, his tone serious. She nodded, reveling in the fact that at last he was touching her. She focused her attention on him, silently begging him to handle her breasts, to stroke her ass. But instead he sat back in his chair, still regarding her gravely.“Shall we continue, then, my little Kate?” he asked.“Yes,” she whispered, not knowing to what she was agreeing. “Yes.”
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November 23, 2023
Holiday Budget: Yep, It’s Worth Repeating
1st Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
2nd Photo by John McArthur on Unsplash
Smart Strategies for Holiday Spending: 5 Ways to Develop and Stick to Your BudgetI know. You see the word budget and cringe. Read on. I promise this is painless 😉 The holiday season is a time of joy, love, and giving, but it can also lead to financial stress if you’re not careful. Believe me, I’ve been there. Developing and adhering to a holiday spending budget is a practical way to enjoy the festivities without overspending. Below, you’ll find five effective strategies to create and maintain your holiday budget, along with recommended resources and apps to help you stay on track.Start Early and Set a Clear Limit:Begin your budgeting process well before the holiday season arrives. Decide on an overall spending limit, taking into account gifts, decorations, travel, and entertainment expenses.Helpful Resources: Utilize budgeting tools like Mint or YNAB (You Need A Budget) to set a clear spending limit and track your expenses. These apps allow you to create budget categories for various holiday-related expenses.Make a Detailed Shopping List:List all the individuals you plan to buy gifts for and assign a budget for each person. Be specific about the items you intend to purchase, along with their estimated costs.Helpful Resources: Apps like Santa’s Bag (iOS) and Giftster (iOS and Android) help you create gift lists, track your purchases, and set spending limits for each person on your list.Shop Smart and Look for Discounts:Be a smart shopper by comparing prices, searching for discounts and deals, and considering alternative gifts or DIY options. Take advantage of Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.Helpful Resources: Apps like Honey, Rakuten, and RetailMeNot can help you find discounts and cashback opportunities when shopping online, and don’t forget Sam’s for bulk purchases. Price comparison websites like CamelCamelCamel and PriceGrabber can assist you in tracking price history.Track Your Expenses in Real Time:Keep up with your spending throughout the holiday season. Update your budget as you make purchases to ensure you stay within your predetermined limits.Helpful Resources: Mobile apps like PocketGuard, Expense Manager (for Android), and Goodbudget (formerly Easy Envelope Budget Aid) enable you to record and categorize expenses on the go.Use Cash or Prepaid Cards:Consider using cash or prepaid debit cards for your holiday shopping. This way, you have a physical limit on your spending, which can help you avoid accumulating credit card debt.Helpful Resources: Services like Green Dot and American Express Serve offer prepaid debit cards that can be preloaded with your holiday budget. They provide a safer alternative to traditional credit cards.A well-planned holiday budget can bring peace of mind during the festive season and prevent financial strain in the new year. By starting early, setting a clear limit, making detailed lists, shopping smart, tracking expenses, and using cash or prepaid cards, you can enjoy the holidays without worrying about overspending. Use the recommended resources and apps to help you create, maintain, and stick to your budget, ensuring a joyous and financially responsible holiday season. And most importantly, peace of mind in the new year.Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Bookbub / Instagram / Newsletter / Musings /
November 16, 2023
Southern Holiday Recipes Part 2 of 2
Thanksgiving is a time for families to gather and share a delectable feast that captures the essence of the season. Click here to view the recipes in part 1. Now, let’s take a look at five more mouthwatering Thanksgiving recipes, including Southern Fried Turkey, Squash Dressing, Oyster Dressing, Pecan Pie, and Carrot Soufflé. Each dish comes with ingredient lists and step-by-step instructions, showcasing why these recipes are considered some of the best holiday dishes.
Southern Fried Turkey:
Ingredients:
12-14 pound turkey
2 gallons of peanut oil
1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
1/4 cup salt
2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons onion powder
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
Thaw the turkey and remove the giblets and neck. Rinse and pat dry.
In a large pot, heat the peanut oil to 350°F (175°C).
Mix the Cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper in a bowl.
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat it thoroughly.
Carefully lower the turkey into the hot oil, using a turkey basket or a turkey frying rig. Fry for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Carefully remove the turkey and let it rest before carving.
Why it’s a Thanksgiving Favorite:
Southern Fried Turkey is a standout Thanksgiving dish because it combines the succulence of a perfectly cooked turkey with a crispy, flavorful crust. The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick, making it a memorable centerpiece for your holiday meal.
Squash Dressing:
Ingredients:
2 pounds yellow squash, sliced
1 cup diced onion
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup diced celery
1/4 cup butter
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Steam or boil the squash until tender. Drain and mash.
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the onion, bell peppers, and celery until they’re soft.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed squash, sautéed vegetables, 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until it’s golden and bubbly.
Why it’s a Thanksgiving Favorite:
Squash Dressing is a beloved Thanksgiving side dish because it combines the earthy flavors of squash and aromatic sautéed vegetables with the comforting richness of cheese and breadcrumbs. It’s a delightful and flavorful alternative to traditional stuffing.
Oyster Dressing:
Ingredients:
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup butter
1 cup shucked oysters with their liquid
8 cups day-old French bread, cubed
1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the celery, onion, bell peppers, and parsley until they’re soft.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, oysters, and their liquid, cubed French bread, fresh sage, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until it’s golden and crispy on top.
Why it’s a Thanksgiving Favorite:
Oyster Dressing is a treasured Thanksgiving dish that marries the briny goodness of oysters with the aromatic blend of herbs and vegetables. It’s a rich and unique side dish that adds a coastal flair to your holiday feast.
Pecan Pie:
Ingredients:
1 9-inch unbaked pie crust
1 cup light corn syrup
3 eggs
1 cup white sugar
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the corn syrup, eggs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Arrange the pecan halves in the bottom of the unbaked pie crust.
Pour the syrup mixture over the pecans.
Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the pie is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Why it’s a Thanksgiving Favorite:
Pecan Pie is a classic Thanksgiving dessert that boasts a perfect combination of sweetness and crunch. The sugary filling is balanced by the nutty richness of pecans, making it a delightful way to cap off your Thanksgiving meal.
Carrot Soufflé:
Ingredients:
2 pounds carrots, peeled and chopped
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 eggs
Powdered sugar for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Boil or steam the carrots until they are tender. Drain and mash them.
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed carrots, sugar, melted butter, flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Beat in the eggs one at a time until the mixture is smooth.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the soufflé is set and golden.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving (optional).
Why it’s a Thanksgiving Favorite:
Carrot Soufflé is a sweet and creamy side dish that provides a perfect balance to the savory elements of a Thanksgiving feast. The natural sweetness of carrots is enhanced by sugar, butter, and vanilla, creating a silky and flavorful accompaniment.
These Thanksgiving recipes are beloved for their ability to capture the essence of the holiday season. Southern Fried Turkey, Oyster Dressing, Pecan Pie, and Carrot Soufflé each bring a unique blend of flavors and textures to your Thanksgiving table. From the crispy Cajun kick of the fried turkey to the sweet and nutty richness of the pecan pie, these dishes are bound to create lasting holiday memories.
November 11, 2023
“But the Heart Does” by Iris Blobel
BUT THE HEART DOESby Iris BlobelBook 5 in the ALINTA BAYBLURB
Two strangers’ lives collide in a chance encounter that will forever change their destinies.
When Jonah, a rugged New Zealander in Alinta Bay for a school reunion, and Maddie, a spirited local, find themselves trapped in a hotel lift, sparks fly amidst the mechanical mishap. His rescue diver training ensures Maddie’s safety and ignites an instant connection between them. They agree to share a dinner the next day, but a shadow from Jonah’s past emerges in the form of his first girlfriend, threatening to unravel the fragile bond they’ve formed.
Grateful for Jonah’s presence and captivated by his charisma, Maddie is determined to find him when he doesn’t show up to their planned meeting. With the help of a friend, she embarks on a search to find Jonah. Her search leads her to a haunting discovery—an unconscious Jonah lying down a cliff outside town.
When Jonah’s belongings are taken from the hotel by his mysterious fiancée, Maddie becomes resolute in her mission to uncover the truth?
Will Maddie and Jonah manage the challenges posed by their past secrets and present obstacles, as well as navigate the sea of emotions, in order to find a future together?
* Amazon * Goodreads * Iris’ Websites ♥
But the Heart Does – Listen to the Beginning of Chapter One
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July 27, 2022
“Dark Sentinels Book Three: Parrish” Launch Giveaway – 1 Day Away!
Dana Rainwater is dying. Her life becomes even more complicated when she witnesses a murder. Making matters worse, the murderer believes that she can identify him.
Taking leave from the pop-gospel stage to live out her final months in peace, she visits a remote area to commission the designs of a famous, yet reclusive architect few have ever seen.
Wolf sentinel shifter Vadrian Parrish is a renowned architect whose nature-inclusive designs have earned the title of “Healing Plans.” Born to a high calling, his disturbing premonitions render him nearly inaccessible to others, but Dana’s touch draws him into another nightmare, one he’s not sure he wants to escape.
From the moment Dana and Parrish make eye contact, their connection is undeniable. Dana is compelled to be with him. If only she had met him sooner. Can their destiny overcome the dangers threatening to annihilate them?
*While introducing a new hero and heroine, this long-awaited sequel includes the continuation of the Dark Sentinels Prequel (Syreena and Cord), Book One (Akila and Sable), and Book Two (Steph and Torin). Contains explicit love scenes, profanity, and violence.
ExcerptNo matter how drawn to him she felt, her concern for what he thought and how he felt gave her pause. I care more about this man’s opinions and reactions than I do about my own mother’s. Get a grip. She had cared about other men without allowing their words and opinions to sway her, but from the moment she saw Parrish it was as if he reached inside her, making contact with some primal need to please she’d never known she had.By the time she finished her courage building monologue, she stood a few yards from Vadrian, who immediately looked up and greeted her with a frown. Rude much?“Why do you always frown when you see me? you were looking fine till I got closer and it’s like your whole face just dropped. “I’m a nice person. people like me.”“I’m sure they do.”“That didn’t sound right.”“I agreed with you. What can I do for you, MS. Rainwater?”“You don’t sincerely want to know what you can do for me right now. What is it about me that you don’t like?”“I don’t like you coming around here before I’m finished because it’s a building Zone. Building Zones are not safe for bystanders.”“So you said, but if you think I’m going to wait until you’re finished with the house of my dreams before you see me again, you’re going to be highly disappointed. I’ll leave you in your funk for today, but I’ll see you tomorrow.”She started walking away then turned back to say, “and be in a better mood.” Free in KUJuly 26, 2022
“Dark Sentinels Book Three: Parrish” Launch Giveaway – 2 Days Away!
Dana Rainwater is dying. Her life becomes even more complicated when she witnesses a murder. Making matters worse, the murderer believes that she can identify him.
Taking leave from the pop-gospel stage to live out her final months in peace, she visits a remote area to commission the designs of a famous, yet reclusive architect few have ever seen.
Wolf sentinel shifter Vadrian Parrish is a renowned architect whose nature-inclusive designs have earned the title of “Healing Plans.” Born to a high calling, his disturbing premonitions render him nearly inaccessible to others, but Dana’s touch draws him into another nightmare, one he’s not sure he wants to escape.
From the moment Dana and Parrish make eye contact, their connection is undeniable. Dana is compelled to be with him. If only she had met him sooner. Can their destiny overcome the dangers threatening to annihilate them?
*While introducing a new hero and heroine, this long-awaited sequel includes the continuation of the Dark Sentinels Prequel (Syreena and Cord), Book One (Akila and Sable), and Book Two (Steph and Torin). Contains explicit love scenes, profanity, and violence.
Excerpt“Oh. It’s nice to actually meet you face-to-face, Vadrian.” Her voice and smile lit a fire inside him.He clenched and unclenched his fists, riveted by the slight movement of her lips as she formed the “O” on a light puff of air.“Vadrian.” She took a step closer to him, nearly invading his personal space.His gaze followed her dark lashes as she glanced down, then back up, a tentative smile enhancing her exotic dark eyes and wide, full lips. Normally, he would have backed away by now, but his feet seemed to be planted where he stood. Free in KUJuly 25, 2022
“Dark Sentinels Book Three: Parrish” Launch Giveaway – 3 Days Away!
Dana Rainwater is dying. Her life becomes even more complicated when she witnesses a murder. Making matters worse, the murderer believes that she can identify him.
Taking leave from the pop-gospel stage to live out her final months in peace, she visits a remote area to commission the designs of a famous, yet reclusive architect few have ever seen.
Wolf sentinel shifter Vadrian Parrish is a renowned architect whose nature-inclusive designs have earned the title of “Healing Plans.” Born to a high calling, his disturbing premonitions render him nearly inaccessible to others, but Dana’s touch draws him into another nightmare, one he’s not sure he wants to escape.
From the moment Dana and Parrish make eye contact, their connection is undeniable. Dana is compelled to be with him. If only she had met him sooner. Can their destiny overcome the dangers threatening to annihilate them?
*While introducing a new hero and heroine, this long-awaited sequel includes the continuation of the Dark Sentinels Prequel (Syreena and Cord), Book One (Akila and Sable), and Book Two (Steph and Torin). Contains explicit love scenes, profanity, and violence.
ExcerptVadrian stepped into his office, unable to abate his curiosity. There was something compelling about Dana’s scent, irresistible to him. His heartbeat quickened in her presence and in spite of all the walls he had spent years building around himself, he wanted nothing more than to be closer, touch her, taste her.He didn’t want to believe it, but it was undeniable. There was no one else like her. His wolf wanted to take her then and there. Her soft, feminine curves, full breasts, wide, cuppable hips, belied the illness, and his body responded in kind. He couldn’t stop it. Obviously, the fact that she was human meant nothing to his wolf. Free in KUJuly 24, 2022
“Dark Sentinels Book Three: Parrish” Launch Giveaway – 4 Days Away!
Dana Rainwater is dying. Her life becomes even more complicated when she witnesses a murder. Making matters worse, the murderer believes that she can identify him.
Taking leave from the pop-gospel stage to live out her final months in peace, she visits a remote area to commission the designs of a famous, yet reclusive architect few have ever seen.
Wolf sentinel shifter Vadrian Parrish is a renowned architect whose nature-inclusive designs have earned the title of “Healing Plans.” Born to a high calling, his disturbing premonitions render him nearly inaccessible to others, but Dana’s touch draws him into another nightmare, one he’s not sure he wants to escape.
From the moment Dana and Parrish make eye contact, their connection is undeniable. Dana is compelled to be with him. If only she had met him sooner. Can their destiny overcome the dangers threatening to annihilate them?
*While introducing a new hero and heroine, this long-awaited sequel includes the continuation of the Dark Sentinels Prequel (Syreena and Cord), Book One (Akila and Sable), and Book Two (Steph and Torin). Contains explicit love scenes, profanity, and violence.
ExcerptJust when she was about to ask how the building was powered, every hair on her body rose with awareness. Someone was watching her.Her heart skipped a beat when she turned toward the external glass wall and locked gazes with an intense pair of eyes, one pale blue, the other a fascinating shade of gold. She knew her mouth was open, but she couldn’t close it. She had a hard enough time stopping herself from gasping. Suddenly, there wasn’t enough air in the room. Her stomach fluttered, teetering at the apex of a rollercoaster just before she descended, faster and faster, out-of-control. She instinctively pressed her palm to her lower belly.Harry, the bird, flew through an opening in the ceiling she hadn’t seen before and landed on the blue and gold-eyed god’s shoulder, who immediately reached up to pet him. “Parrish.” She didn’t even realize she had whispered his name out loud until she noticed the look on Patrice’s face. Free in KUJuly 23, 2022
“Dark Sentinels Book Three: Parrish” Launch Giveaway – 5 Days Away!
Dana Rainwater is dying. Her life becomes even more complicated when she witnesses a murder. Making matters worse, the murderer believes that she can identify him.
Taking leave from the pop-gospel stage to live out her final months in peace, she visits a remote area to commission the designs of a famous, yet reclusive architect few have ever seen.
Wolf sentinel shifter Vadrian Parrish is a renowned architect whose nature-inclusive designs have earned the title of “Healing Plans.” Born to a high calling, his disturbing premonitions render him nearly inaccessible to others, but Dana’s touch draws him into another nightmare, one he’s not sure he wants to escape.
From the moment Dana and Parrish make eye contact, their connection is undeniable. Dana is compelled to be with him. If only she had met him sooner. Can their destiny overcome the dangers threatening to annihilate them?
*While introducing a new hero and heroine, this long-awaited sequel includes the continuation of the Dark Sentinels Prequel (Syreena and Cord), Book One (Akila and Sable), and Book Two (Steph and Torin). Contains explicit love scenes, profanity, and violence.
Excerpt“Haven’t we had this conversation before? I know who she is, Patrice. She’s still human. Maybe Sable and Torin were meant to mate with humans for some reason, but I’ve never been attracted to any humans, let alone being saddled with a human mate.“Vadrian tucked the sketch he was working on under his arm and headed for the back door. Free in KUJuly 22, 2022
“Dark Sentinels Book Threes; Parrish” Launch Giveaway – 6 Days Away!
Dana Rainwater is dying. Her life becomes even more complicated when she witnesses a murder. Making matters worse, the murderer believes that she can identify him.
Taking leave from the pop-gospel stage to live out her final months in peace, she visits a remote area to commission the designs of a famous, yet reclusive architect few have ever seen.
Wolf sentinel shifter Vadrian Parrish is a renowned architect whose nature-inclusive designs have earned the title of “Healing Plans.” Born to a high calling, his disturbing premonitions render him nearly inaccessible to others, but Dana’s touch draws him into another nightmare, one he’s not sure he wants to escape.
From the moment Dana and Parrish make eye contact, their connection is undeniable. Dana is compelled to be with him. If only she had met him sooner. Can their destiny overcome the dangers threatening to annihilate them?
*While introducing a new hero and heroine, this long-awaited sequel includes the continuation of the Dark Sentinels Prequel (Syreena and Cord), Book One (Akila and Sable), and Book Two (Steph and Torin). Contains explicit love scenes, profanity, and violence.
ExcerptPicking up her binoculars again, she tried to turn her mind to something positive. If Vadrian Parrish was anything like the building she found her gaze riveted to, she couldn’t wait to meet him, reclusive or not. “So, if I can’t meet him today, when do I meet him?”Adabi glanced at her with a grimace. “Well, that is the catch. You do not get to meet him. From what I was told, he does not meet with his clients. We are here to meet with his staff, answer a few more questions, and take a look at some designs he has already prepared for you.”“What? You’re serious.” She allowed the binoculars to drop from her eyes, a diamond-studded, necklace length cord hanging from her neck. “We don’t get to meet him at all? We’re supposed to just pick a design and leave? Who the hell is this guy? Free in KU
