Hot Halloween Heroes Giveaway Hop

I have to admit my favorite type of romance is the paranormal kind. For me, there's nothing like a hero with a bit of mystery or hidden beast about him, especially when he battles to keep control of it, maintaining his humanity against all odds. It gives me shivers, especially during the hot and heavy scenes in an erotic tale. I also like men with vulnerabilities. No, not emotionally stifled men embittered beyond repair from their past experience, but men that have real issues and challenges they face on a daily basis. Something that plagues them but they've successfully learned to live, like bursting into flames if they go out in the sun. 

As you can probably tell, for me it's not the battle over good and evil that often appears in the paranormal novels I read that enthralls me, it's the inner struggle of each character. The hero battling control of his inner or alternate self, the struggle for acceptance in a human world so different from his own. The heroine, usually mortal or at least a different species of immortal, coming to terms with falling in love with a creature so different from herself. How do they fit together, can this relationship work, will we be accepted by our peers. For me paranormal romance is a reflection of real world issues in an unreal setting, a world of myth and legend. 

Paranormal heroes are the ultimate alpha males, which speak directly into my little submissive heart and soul. Dominance and submission swirl through most pages of the novels I read. Paranormal romances, even if not expressly advocating a relationship often thought of as belonging only within the BDSM lifestyle, reflect the D/s situation well. Claiming or owning a mate, the alpha control and protection of the women he loves, and that word I so love to read in most paranormal books...mine. I swear I tremble just thinking about it. 

Because I love the genre so much it took me quite a while to dip my toe into that pool in a writing sense. I finally did it and at the beginning of October my first paranormal erotic romance appeared in an anthology called Edible Delights,  Vol 3. My novella, A Tasty Little Treat, appears with three other stories by Aussie authors. I've included the book blurb and an excerpt from the story to tempt your taste buds. I hope you like it. 

A Tasty Little Treat by Jan Graham

Faye Redwood won’t be anyone’s tasty little treat, especially not sexy vampire, Owen Ashmore’s. It seems however, Owen is intent on convincing her otherwise.

Faye Redwood is different to other humans. She sees supernatural beings. When it comes to surviving as a Seer, Faye always follows her grandmother’s advice, whatever you do, don’t let them feed on you. As a result, Faye has managed to avoid being any creatures’ dinner for twenty-seven years now. A late night walk through the park and a chance encounter with a sexy vampire is about to change that situation for ever.

After being a creature of the night for the last two and a half centuries Owen Ashmore has become pragmatic about the human race. They are a source of food and a side order of carnal delight if the mood takes him. However, Owens opinion is about to change. Faye Redwood is unlike any human he’s ever met. He isn’t content to simply make her his tasty little treat, Owen is about to help her become so much more.  

Excerpt

Faye breathed in deeply and exhaled slowly. After twenty-six years of avoiding the paranormal, keeping her distance, why tonight did her inner voice fail? She picked up her mobile phone and stared at the screen, just rummaging through her bag to find nothing would be too suspicious. With no sixth sense to guide her, only one course of action sprang to mind. She replaced the phone in her bag, then continued on her way. She moved slowly, a few sluggish steps at a time, reluctant to leave the area. The creature certainly posed a threat to her, but would he harm other innocent passersby. Self-preservation finally won the battle with her conscience, so she picked up her pace.

“I know you can see me, little fairy.” Faye spun around, expecting to see the man standing behind her. Instead, she saw nothing. Turning her head, she gazed up at the creature on the roof. He remained there, sitting forward now, his body more alert than before, his eyes fixated on her. “And now I know you can hear me as well.”

Damn it.

Faye spun back around in the direction she needed to head, out of the park, toward home, to safety. The adrenaline of being discovered enabled her body to click into gear, legs finally propelling her forward at a rapid rate. Not that running away did any good. Breath forcefully expelled from her lungs as she hit the solid mass in front of her.

Damn, he moves fast.

Rebounding from the impact, she would have fallen to the ground had his arms not encased her, holding her steady.

“Fuck.” She only meant to curse silently, but the word spilled from her lips along with a groan of frustration as he pulled her against his hard body. She lifted her gaze to his, confirming her suspicions. Black eyes, with a thin red line circling the iris, white pupils staring at her, a structurally perfect face covered in pale pristine skin, his smile exposing a hint of elongated canine. Faye stood wrapped in the arms of a vampire, probably a hungry one at that.

“What a delightful greeting, little fairy, but I think it’s far too early in our relationship to discuss sex, don’t you?” His smile appeared wicked, in a sexy kind of way.

“I think it’s too early to call this a relationship, now let me go.” Faye tried not to wiggle against him, she simply pushed her hands firmly on his chest, hoping he’d take the hint and release her. Her heart rate continued to accelerate as her fear increased, she could feel the pulse in her neck fluttering. Not a good state to be in when facing a hungry vampire, no matter how sexy he looked.

The red rim around his eyes indicated he needed to feed so the last thing she wanted to do was send him into a bloodlust. She stilled, realizing her efforts to push him away were futile. He wasn’t letting go anytime soon especially considering the rim around his irises had noticeably thickened in the short time he’d held her, as did something at his groin.

“I like the feel of you against me, my little fairy, just as I like your smell.” A seductive smile displayed his lengthening canines. “The scent of your arousal while you struggle to free yourself makes me appreciate you all the more.”

“I am not aroused by you. I’m also not anybody’s little fairy, especially yours,” Faye snapped indignantly, then swiftly changed her tone in case her resistance inflamed the situation. “Now let me go…please.”

Her grandmother had taught her many things, one of them being—you attract more bees with honey than vinegar. Her final words were therefore sweetly polite, with a hint of vulnerability.

Faye rested quietly in his arms, trying to calm the race of her pulse, deepen the shallow gasps of her breathing and still the strange heat thrilling through her body, which shouldn’t be occurring under these circumstances. Vampires were cold to the touch so being held this close should make her shiver, not flush with heat. Unless, no he couldn’t be correct. Faye adjusted her position slightly, failing to stifle a groan as her erect nipples rasped against the fabric of her bra. His assertion regarding her state rang true, she was aroused.

“As you wish, but only because you asked so politely.” He released her from his embrace, stepping back with a slight bow. “Allow me to introduce myself. I am Owen Ashmore.”

“Faye.” She stated nervously in reply, intentionally omitting her last name, Redwood.

As Owen stood once again to full height, a wicked grin creased his lips. Their gazes remained locked through the entire encounter and even though he released her from a physical hold, Faye remained entranced by his intent stare. A chill raced over her body, the night breeze cooling her flesh.

How could she be aroused? Yes, he was stunning to look at, but he wasn’t human. Faye ensured she never became attracted to anything other than a real man. After all, humans were only a source of sustenance to vampires, nothing more. Although some vampires did cohabitate with humans, using them as a meal replacement program until the mortal died, either from old age or being drained in an accidental feeding frenzy. Faye didn’t fancy experiencing either fate.

Blog Hop Giveaway 

For my giveaway you can win a copy of Edible Delights Vol 3 (ebook version in PDF only) simply by leaving a comment and your email at the end of this post. 

Entrants must be over the age of 18 yrs, this giveaway is international, the winner will be selected using via random.org. 

While your hear don't forget to check out the other participants blogs via the linkylist below and see what other great prizes are up for offer.  

This hop was organised by Felicity Heaton and Indie Romance Books, thanks for setting up this wonderful event.

Edible Delights Highlight - A Tasty Little Treat by Jan Graham

About the Author: 

Jan Graham describes herself in many ways. She is a full time writer, friend, submissive, orphan, widow, aunt, and sometimes, a wild child. Despite any hiccups the universe may throw at her, she believes in experiencing everything life has to offer and being the best person she can be. Jan lives in Newcastle, Australia, where she spends her time writing erotic romance. Her writing falls under a variety of genres including BDSM, contemporary romance, romantic suspense and paranormal romance. Jan has often been quoted as saying:

"I am glad to finally give the characters that swirl around my head on a constant basis, the opportunity to put themselves down on paper and I hope they entertain my readers as much as they amuse me."

  

About the Book: 

Faye Redwood won’t be anyone’s tasty little treat, especially not sexy vampire, Owen Ashmore’s. It seems however, Owen is intent on convincing her otherwise.

Faye Redwood is different to other humans. She sees supernatural beings. When it comes to

surviving as a Seer, Faye always follows her grandmother’s advice, whatever you do, don’t let them feed on you. As a result, Faye has managed to avoid being any creatures’ dinner for twenty-seven years now. A late night walk through the park and a chance encounter with a sexy vampire is about to change that situation for ever.

After being a creature of the night for the last two and a half centuries Owen Ashmore has become pragmatic about the human race. They are a source of food and a side order of carnal delight if the mood takes him. However, Owens opinion is about to change. Faye Redwood is unlike any human he’s ever met. He isn’t content to simply make her his tasty little treat, Owen is about to help her become so much more.  

Excerpt: 

Faye breathed in deeply and exhaled slowly. After twenty-six years of avoiding the paranormal, keeping her distance, why tonight did her inner voice fail? She picked up her mobile phone and stared at the screen, just rummaging through her bag to find nothing would be too suspicious. With no sixth sense to guide her, only one course of action sprang to mind. She replaced the phone in her bag, then continued on her way. She moved slowly, a few sluggish steps at a time, reluctant to leave the area. The creature certainly posed a threat to her, but would he harm other innocent passersby. Self-preservation finally won the battle with her conscience, so she picked up her pace.

“I know you can see me, little fairy.” Faye spun around, expecting to see the man standing behind her. Instead, she saw nothing. Turning her head, she gazed up at the creature on the roof. He remained there, sitting forward now, his body more alert than before, his eyes fixated on her. “And now I know you can hear me as well.”

Damn it.

Faye spun back around in the direction she needed to head, out of the park, toward home, to safety. The adrenaline of being discovered enabled her body to click into gear, legs finally propelling her forward at a rapid rate. Not that running away did any good. Breath forcefully expelled from her lungs as she hit the solid mass in front of her.

Damn, he moves fast.

Rebounding from the impact, she would have fallen to the ground had his arms not encased her, holding her steady.

“Fuck.” She only meant to curse silently, but the word spilled from her lips along with a groan of frustration as he pulled her against his hard body. She lifted her gaze to his, confirming her suspicions. Black eyes, with a thin red line circling the iris, white pupils staring at her, a structurally perfect face covered in pale pristine skin, his smile exposing a hint of elongated

canine. Faye stood wrapped in the arms of a vampire, probably a hungry one at that.

“What a delightful greeting, little fairy, but I think it’s far too early in our relationship to discuss sex, don’t you?” His smile appeared wicked, in a sexy kind of way.

“I think it’s too early to call this a relationship, now let me go.” Faye tried not to wiggle against him, she simply pushed her hands firmly on his chest, hoping he’d take the hint and release her. Her heart rate continued to accelerate as her fear increased, she could feel the pulse in her neck

fluttering. Not a good state to be in when facing a hungry vampire, no matter how sexy he looked.

The red rim around his eyes indicated he needed to feed so the last thing she wanted to do was send him into a bloodlust. She stilled, realizing her efforts to push him away were futile. He wasn't letting go anytime soon especially considering the rim around his irises had noticeably thickened in the short time he’d held her, as did something at his groin.

“I like the feel of you against me, my little fairy, just as I like your smell.” A seductive smile displayed his lengthening canines. “The scent of your arousal while you struggle to free yourself makes me appreciate you all the more.”

“I am not aroused by you. I’m also not anybody’s little fairy, especially yours,” Faye snapped indignantly, then swiftly changed her tone in case her resistance inflamed the situation. “Now let me go…please.”

Her grandmother had taught her many things, one of them being—you attract more bees with honey than vinegar. Her final words were therefore sweetly polite, with a hint of vulnerability.

Faye rested quietly in his arms, trying to calm the race of her pulse, deepen the shallow gasps of her breathing and still the strange heat thrilling through her body, which shouldn't be occurring under these circumstances. Vampires were cold to the touch so being held this close should make her shiver, not flush with heat. Unless, no he couldn't be correct. Faye adjusted her position lightly, failing to stifle a groan as her erect nipples rasped against the fabric of her bra. His assertion regarding her state rang true, she was aroused.

“As you wish, but only because you asked so politely.” He released her from his embrace, stepping back with a slight bow. “Allow me to introduce myself. I am Owen Ashmore.”

“Faye.” She stated nervously in reply, intentionally omitting her last name, Redwood.

As Owen stood once again to full height, a wicked grin creased his lips. Their gazes remained locked through the entire encounter and even though he released her from a physical hold, Faye remained entranced by his intent stare. A chill raced over her body, the night breeze cooling her flesh.

How could she be aroused? Yes, he was stunning to look at, but he wasn't human. Faye ensured she never became attracted to anything other than a real man. After all, humans were only a source of sustenance to vampires, nothing more. Although some vampires did cohabitate with humans, using them as a meal replacement program until the mortal died, either from old age or being drained in an accidental feeding frenzy. Faye didn't fancy experiencing either fate.

Buy Link: Secret Cravings Publishing

Edible Delights Vol 3

Edible Delights Volume Three has arrived. It's the final anthology in a series featuring Australian authors and some delicious food themed stories. 

Volume three includes works by Tasmin Baker, Khloe Wren, Willsin Rowe and me, Jan Graham.

Over the next few days I'll be highlighting each novella from the book to give you all a taste of what's included. 

The Anthology is available in most formats from Secret Cravings Publishing and should hit sellers such as Amazon, B&N, etc over the next week or so. The print version will be available in a few months.

If you haven't already done so follow me on twitter or Facebook (links to both appear on the side tab) to stay updated as more purchase links become available.

Buy Link: Secret Cravings Bookstore

Edible Delights Highlight and Sneak Preview.

This is the final day of my book highlight series so I thought an nice tasty offering might be in order. So far there are two Edible Delight (ED) anthologies, Vol 1 contains for novellas including one by me, All You Can Eat. The soon to be released ED Vol 3 (this anthology should be out in mid October) also has one of my novellas, A Tasty little Treat, my first paranormal offering for readers and the beginning of a series if all goes to plan. 

So today, as well as highlighting my story from the already published ED Vol 1, I'm also giving you a sneak peak at the new novella which will appear in the soon to be released ED Vol 3. I hope you enjoy both. 

All You Can Eat 

(Edible Delights Anthology Vol 1)

Combine one sexy chef, a dominant food critic, and a generous splash of mistaken identity. Apply heat to create a deliciously erotic banquet for two. 

As a Chef, Katrina McGregor knows she can’t please everyone so when a prominent food critic slams her signature dish she’s faced with a choice. Crumble under the weight of one man’s opinion or use it as motivation to change. Katrina’s curiosity peaks when she’s invited to trial her new menu at the critic’s country estate. Why has he taken such an interest in her career and is food the only thing that Conrad Fletcher has on his mind?

Conrad Fletcher refuses to be held responsible for Katrina assuming his elderly father and namesake is the critic who condemned her food. If his plan to seduce the voluptuous little chef who captured his attention weeks earlier succeeds, not only will Katrina have a critically acclaimed menu, she’ll also be in his arms and home forever. The only thing that threatens to prevent successfully achieving that goal—her reaction to a simple case of mistaken identity. 

Buy Links: www.amazon.com   www.amazon.co.uk   secretcravingspublishing   www.barnesandnoble

Excerpt: 

Kat strode to the bathroom and turned on the cold water, hoping a chilly start to the day would calm the heat of her arousal. The water rushed over her naked skin causing a shiver, her breasts ached as her nipples became more erect than Kat thought humanly possible. Picking up the cake of soap, she lathered her body. Her hands sliding over wet soapy flesh felt unexplainably sensual so she changed tack, adopting the roughly-lather-quickly-rinse approach. It didn’t feel any less erotic as visions of Jai taking her crudely, forcefully, filled her mind. Kat rested her head against the cool tile wall, an aggravated moan accompanied the soapy bubbles as they disappeared down the drain. The situation was impossible.

“Do you need any help washing your back, kitty kat?” The sound of Jai’s deep voice caused her pussy to clench. She groaned, flicking off the faucet, Kat quickly reached for the towel hanging over the glass petition of the cubicle.

Jai stood in the doorway leading from his bedroom, jeans sitting low on his hips, muscular stomach and chest on full display, hair ruffled from just getting out of bed. The look on his face could only be described as wicked and Kat averted her eyes, attempting to ignore the distinctive bulge at his groin. She summoned the energy to appear indignant.

“How long have you been there and why are you in here?” she snapped.

“Well, hearing your soft moans, I thought I’d better investigate. Luckily, I arrived around halfway through the soapy display. So, in answer to the first part of your question, long enough to be entertained, amused, aroused. As to the why, well, you didn’t lock the door. I did warn you last night. I believe I said—”

“Yes I remember.” Kat snapped. “If I don’t want you catching me wet and naked in the shower I need to lock the door.” Kat adjusted the towel to ensure she was fully covered. Not that it mattered now because he’d seen her in all her glory—every curve and wobbly bit—she doubted the soap covered anything much.

“Exactly, therefore I assumed…door not locked…my kitten wants me to see her naked, glistening with water and bubbles.”

“Male logic never ceases to amaze me.” Kat couldn’t decide if she wanted to smack the smug look off his face or have him rip the towel off her body, then take her roughly, pressed up against the bathroom wall. Maybe both would be equally satisfying.

He stalked toward her, grabbed a fistful of wet hair, engulfed her lips with his own and immersed her in the most passionately, erotic kiss she’d ever experienced. Her arms entwined his neck, the desire to respond with equal vigor overwhelming her. Jai swallowed each moan of delight elicited from her, a guttural groan his response to the need she expressed. The towel slipped from her body as he released her mouth. She gazed into lust-filled eyes as he began to gently dry her skin with the towel, she now realized, he’d pulled from her.

Kat couldn’t speak, the kiss leaving her breathless, the aching need between her legs clouding her mind. His towel-covered hands pawing at her breasts, down her back, over her legs, between her thighs as he dried her held her in a mesmerized state of confused delight. She should stop him. He had no right to even be here, his behavior—totally inappropriate. Oh but it felt so right, so good, and so damned erotic she didn’t want him to stop. Kat moaned deeply, leaning back against his bare chest as the towel tumbled to the floor allowing Jai’s now bare hand to cup the flesh between her thighs.

“I don’t seem to be able to get you completely dry, kitty kat.” His fingers pressed between her lips, stroking gently over her clit. “I wonder how horny you will have to become before you ask me to take you, because I won’t take you until you ask.”

Kat could barely breathe as her body erupted with heat. She wanted Jai more than any man she’d met before, but at the right time, in the right place. Not here and now, the focus of this visit should be work, not fornicating with her mentor’s son.

“Please, Jai.” Kat’s words were spoken with a groan. “Your father may not approve…I need to think of the reason I came here not our attraction for each other. Please, don’t do this to me.”

“I love the desperate way you say please, kitty kat. I’m wondering when you finally say the words—should I make you beg before satisfying you?” He removed his hand, kissing the top of her head as he released her. “Now, I’ll leave you to dress. Wear something sexy for breakfast. Father won’t be back until tomorrow morning as the food critics’ luncheon is set for noon. So it’s just us here until then.”

Jai walked out the door before Kat could respond, leaving her steadying herself on the basin for the second time in less than twenty-four hours.

A Tasty Little Treat

(Edible Delights Anthology Vol 3)

Faye Redwood won’t be anyone’s tasty little treat, especially not sexy vampire, Owen Ashmore’s. It seems however, Owen is intent on convincing her otherwise.

Faye Redwood is different to other humans. She sees supernatural beings. When it comes to surviving as a Seer, Faye always follows her grandmother’s advice, whatever you do, don’t let them feed on you. As a result, she has managed to avoid being any creatures’ dinner for twenty-seven years now. A late night walk through the park and a chance encounter with a sexy vampire is about to change that situation forever.

After being a creature of the night for just over a millennium, Owen Ashmore has become pragmatic about the human race. They are a source of food and, a side order of carnal delight if the mood takes him. However, Owens opinion is about to change. Faye Redwood is unlike any human he’s ever met. He isn't content to simply make her his tasty little treat, Owen is about to help her become so much more.  

Edible delights Vol 3 is due for release in October 2013 through Secret Cravings Publishing.