Meet Ridge – Behind the scenes of Maybe Someday

Want a sneak peek at Ridge? Then I got a real treat for you!Ridge_3

Behind The Scenes of Reimagining the Romance Novel 
Is that the Crave app in your pocket or are you just excited to see me?
If you’ve been living under a rock (or maybe you took a tech vacation), Crave is one of the hottest new apps, delivering some of romance’s bestselling novels alongside additional media like short cinematic videos, text exchanges, gifs, and voicemails from the story’s leading man. Though some of these elements are adapted straight from the book, the creative team behind Crave also works closely with the author to create entirely new plotlines, giving you exclusive narratives you can’t find anywhere but in the app. The team gave us an inside look at what it takes to produce a book for Crave on the set of their newest book, Colleen Hoover’s Maybe Someday. What follows is a hybrid of traditional movie magic and digital publishing alchemy.
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Where romance starts with friendship
One thing about Colleen: she is not shy. When Crave and Simon and Schuster (her publisher) asked Colleen to be a part of the app, she said yes almost instantly. Excited to explore this wholly new form of narrative, Colleen debuted on the app and received effusive praise for taking on this bold initiative. As a treat to readers, users of the app can message directly with the author, giving Colleen and her fans almost instantaneous access to each other.
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The Best Book Club You’ll Ever Join
This exciting, engaged community is one of the reasons Crave chose to try something different with their fourth book. Unlike the first three titles, Maybe Someday was chosen by the fans. Some of the earliest feedback the Crave team received was from initial downloaders craving — pun intended — previously released books produced in this new format. Using the heaven-sent wonder social media, Crave then asked Colleen’s fans which book they would like to read (and see and hear) next. The result? Maybe Someday.
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Bringing a Story to Life
Creating an entire universe for a story is not a task for the faint of heart.
We begin in editorial. First, Crave’s head writer analyzes the story at hand and creates a dramatic framework. This document serves as a pared outline, dissecting the characters and their motivations for the entire team. From this document the team begins to identify story anchors and develops concepts for alternative plot lines. Crave’s creative director works on assembling a mood board based on some of these ideas to find a cohesive aesthetic for all the elements.
Ridge — example of in-app content
The writers then create an ‘enhanced script’ based off the book. This document contains every single media element Crave will produce — this also allows the team to compare the actual book side-by-side with what will be created, eliminating the chance for inconsistencies with the original story.
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Then the cameras begin to roll. The writers send a brief to a casting director, who then sends back a shortlist of potential actors. While an actor is being selected, the rest of the team is already working on acquiring locations and creating call sheets, one-liners, and shooting schedules.
Set days are long, but it’s where the Crave team says most of the bonding happens. All the stress of shooting becomes worthwhile in post-production, where cinematic clips are color-corrected and further enhanced by sound and graphic design.
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Special elements, like text messages and audio plays, are also created during post-production. You know when you’re texting with someone and you see the ‘now typing’ bubbles (and experience all the anxiety that goes along with that sight)? Team Crave knows exactly how that goes and is sure to incorporate the fine details (like those wonderful, horrible dots) in these bonus elements.
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Finally, after everything has been reviewed, all the content gets packaged into the app and sent over to the development team who pushes it to your pockets (or wherever your phone is).
Get ready to say hello to your next Book Boyfriend!
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IMG_1220Download the free Crave app here to get the full experience: http://bit.ly/1XtN69v 

Spotlight, Author Interview & Giveaway with @authorerinwatt

Spotlight-Paper Princess

When was the last time you read a book that sucked you in so bad, you couldn’t put it down for even a second? I’m talking the worst kind of book crack kind of book. You know what I’m talking about here; the kind that will leave you shaking in withdrawal once you finish with your skin practically itching for the next fix? Oh yeah. That, dirty birds, was Paper Princess to me. I don’t remember the last time I read a book in quite literary one sitting. My kindle went with me everywhere. Hell, I’m surprised I only walked into a door and a wall twice considering I couldn’t be bothered to lift my nose from my book long enough to see where I’m going. So suffice it to say that ever since I finished, I’ve been going through the worst book hangover OF MY LIFE! And no I’m not being melodramatic or exaggerating even a little bad. It hurts, dammit!

So when I got the chance to chat with the super talented duo, Jen Frederick and Elle Kennedy; who are writing as Erin Watt and are the masterminds behind this little cracktastic masterpiece, of course I jumped at the chance. I couldn’t wait to pick their brain on all things Paper Princess, the Royals series, I may have also tried to bribe them an inner organ or two for an early release of Broken Prince (The Royals #2). Oh and if you missed it, you can find my 5 Star review of Paper Princess HERE.

Now without further ado, let’s get to the interview, shall we?


 

DGR: So, first things first, you both have some super addicting book series going individually, what made you decide to come together for this project?

EW: Deciding to work together was a spur of the moment thing that occurred after various emails back and forth. We started with football talk (serious business!) and it somehow turned into a mutual desire to write an over-the-top-omg-drama YA novel.

DGR: How did you come up with this pen name?

EW: We’re both huge football fans so the name is a tribute to our favorite players: Aaron Rodgers and J.J. Watt.

DGR: Now let’s just jump right into things, can you tell the readers about Paper Princess and The Royals series?

EW: The Royals series is a super angsty, drama-filled series that starts with our heroine Ella being plucked from a world where she’s fending for herself and deposited into the midst of a broken Royal family and a bunch of super-wealthy, snobby, image-driven teenagers. It’s YA Gossip Girl, Cruel Intentions and Mean Girls rolled up into one!

DGR: Now be honest, did you sit down and say to yourself, I’m going to write the literary equivalent of crack that will hook readers fast and quick and then leave them quivering messes while suffering from the worst kind of withdrawals known as the book hangover to beat all hangovers?!

EW: We knew this book was going to be fun to write, but we had no idea the effect it was going to have on our readers! We are considering putting together some sort of “#RuinedByRoyals” support group.

DGR: Side note; if I promise you my first born and a kidney, any chance you’ll release Broken Prince early? How about if I throw an ovary into that mix? No?

EW: You’d probably have a better chance if you offered puppies and famous athlete signed footballs, but sadly, no… 🙂

DGR: Back to business then, did you have any inspiration for the characters in Paper Princess?

EW: No, we didn’t have any particular actors or actresses in mind. We started with Ella and the characters grew from there.

 DGR: Did you have a favorite part to write about the book?

EW: Can we say all of it? LOL Pretty much any scene involving Reed and Ella was a joy to write.

DGR: I have to admit this was by far one of the most addicting and captivating books I’ve read in a long damn while. Was it just as fun to write as it was for me to read?

EW: We had a blast writing it! It was a mixture of wanting to pour everything we loved into the book, and the anticipation of seeing what the other person was going to write. We ended up writing it in about 2 weeks!

DGR: Are you closet sadists? Because that ending hurt like a mother, and I’m pretty sure you like knowing that, no?

EW: Our goal was never to make our readers suffer, but we definitely wanted them to feel. Whether it was cheering for Ella or getting mad at something someone did (stupid Jordan!), we wanted our readers to really be invested in the soap opera we were trying to create. Sorry for the hangover? 😉

DGR: Right now there’s 3 books listed for The Royals series; so will it be a trilogy or do you plan to write more?

EW: Right now the Royals is slated to be a trilogy, but we’ve already had numerous requests to expand on different characters, so who knows what lies ahead…

DGR: Now let’s talk about all things Royal: Callum, Easton, and the twins are very intriguing characters. They’re all equally unique and captivate the reader, any chance you’ll be giving the rest of the Royal boys a book?

EW: The great thing about the Royal men is they have so many layers. The problem is, everyone has their favorite. Elle is obsessed with Easton, while Jen is Team Reed all the way. We haven’t decided yet about who will get a book, because really… how do you even begin to choose?

DGR: I absolutely loved Ella. She’s such a firecracker yet she still maintains this vulnerability to her and she doesn’t take any shit from anyone. What’s your favorite part about Ella? How would you describe her to readers that haven’t met her yet?

EW: Ella’s tough! She’s a street-smart survivor who’s done what she had to do to get by. But she’s not hardened—she’s still a teenage girl trying to figure out herself and her new surroundings.

DGR: Now let’s just talk about the broody object of my obsession: Reed. Because GAH! Can you possibly write a more perfect alpha-hole? How would you describe Reed?

EW: Reed is complicated. He’s broken, distrustful, yet man enough to admit when he’s wrong and try to make things right. He’s also incredibly loyal, and dangerous to mess with. If you were to get in a fight, he’s the guy you’d want at your side.

DGR: Was there a part of the book that you struggled with or had a tough time writing?

EW: This was a dream project. From start to finish, it took about two weeks so no, there wasn’t any struggle in this story. We suppose the struggle was ending it, but we started the next one almost immediately after so even that wasn’t very tortuous.

DGR: If you had to describe The Royals to readers in 10 words or less, what would they be?

EW: Angst, Drama, OMG-The-Feels, No-It-Didn’t!, YA Goodness

DGR: But seriously though, what if I put the second ovary into the mix? Still no earlier book release?

EW: Um… No :p

DGR: Did you have a favorite character to write?

EW: Easton! He’s incredibly playful yet exasperating at the same time. He bounces between manic and destructive periods, but when he puts his mind to something, he’s getting his way. He’s also super cute.

DGR: If The Royals was ever made into a movie or a TV series, and let’s be honest here, that’d be one cracktastic and kickass series I’d love to watch! Who would be your dream cast? (I’d love to make a casting image board to go along with this answer)

EW: Goodness! What a great question. Reed could be played by a dark-haired Kellan Lutz. Gideon by Aaron Taylor-Johnson. The twins by Nathan Kress. Easton by Dylan O’Brien.

As for Ella, it would have to be a really special actress. J-Law? Emma Stone? Emma Watson? Chloe Moretz?

DGR: Alright, I think I’ve harassed you with enough questions 🙂 Anything you’d like to leave the readers with?

EW: Paper Princess is a roller coaster of emotions and events. You may want to have your chocolate handy 🙂 Happy Reading!


About The BookPaper Princess
Series: The Royals #1
Genre: YA/NA Romance
Author: Erin Watt
Release Date: April 4, 2016add-to-goodreads-button-2

The-Royals-Paper-Princess-cover-Erin-Watt-Elle-Kennedy-Jen-Frederick

From strip clubs and truck stops to southern coast mansions and prep schools, one girl tries to stay true to herself.

These Royals will ruin you…

Ella Harper is a survivor—a pragmatic optimist. She’s spent her whole life moving from town to town with her flighty mother, struggling to make ends meet and believing that someday she’ll climb out of the gutter. After her mother’s death, Ella is truly alone.

Until Callum Royal appears, plucking Ella out of poverty and tossing her into his posh mansion among his five sons who all hate her. Each Royal boy is more magnetic than the last, but none as captivating as Reed Royal, the boy who is determined to send her back to the slums she came from.

Reed doesn’t want her. He says she doesn’t belong with the Royals.

He might be right.

Wealth. Excess. Deception. It’s like nothing Ella has ever experienced, and if she’s going to survive her time in the Royal palace, she’ll need to learn to issue her own Royal decrees.

Buy LinksPRE-ORDER 

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Giveaway

Want to win an ebook of Paper Princess for release day? I got you covered 😉
ENTER ON MY FACEBOOK PAGE HERE

(Giveaway will be live at 9:10 am CST)

New Release Spotlight: ★Before Hadley★ by @Jnathanbooks

Spotlight-Before HadleyBefore Hadley
Genre: New Adult Romance
Author: J. Nathan
Release Date: March 14, 2016add-to-goodreads-button-2

Before Hadley Cover- J. Nathan

What’s worse than a cocky new guy at school? A cocky new guy with a killer body and the attention of every female around. Hadley can tell the minute she lays eyes on Caynan that he’s someone to avoid. He may have looks and charm, but he’s also got heartbreak written all over his pretty face.

Unfortunately for Hadley, Caynan has his sights set on her. She’s the one girl who doesn’t want him. The one girl who’s turned off by his charm. The one girl who challenges him like no other. And, though she couldn’t possibly know the truth about him, she seems to be the one girl who really sees him.

But with Caynan, things aren’t at all what they seem. His secrets have secrets and everything out of his mouth straddles the line between truth and fiction. He knows better than to get involved with anyone, especially with his time limited in the new town, but he just can’t seem to get Hadley out of his mind. Too bad for him, secrets never remain secrets for long.

*New adult/Contemporary Romance – Recommended for 18+ due to language and mature content

Buy LinksAmazon US | Amazon UK | iTunes | Kobo

Excerpt

Caynan and I stepped outside into the unseasonably cool night, walking through the parking lot in silence. I pressed my key to disarm the alarm. My car beeped, its lights flashing and briefly lighting up the dark lot. I stepped up to my door and turned to face him. “Thanks again.”
“Stop thanking me.” His tone was cold and clipped as he handed me my backpack.
“Sorry. I just meant—”
He stepped into me, forcing my back against the door. He grabbed my cheeks between his hands and stared down at me. “I want to kiss you so fucking bad right now.”
My heart slammed against my chest as my voice came out a mere whisper. “Then do it.” 
His eyes didn’t waver from mine. “This isn’t a date. I said I wouldn’t kiss you if it wasn’t a date.”
I dropped my backpack to my feet, the thud carrying through the silent lot. “I don’t care.” 
He closed his eyes and dropped his forehead to mine. “Part of me wants to prolong this. Make you crazy for me.” His eyes opened and he looked me dead in the eyes. “But the other part wants to taste what I’ve been thinking about doing since the moment I met you.” 
I couldn’t stop my hands from drifting up the front of his shirt, over the solid muscles in his abs and chest. I’d never felt anything so freaking amazing in my life.
He didn’t seem to mind my exploration because he groaned deep in his throat. His breath, a mixture of soda and mint, floated between us. “Go out with me,” he said.
“I’m out with you right now.”
“A date. Then you better believe I’ll kiss you at the end of the night.”
“Maybe I don’t want to wait until the end of the night,” I challenged. What the hell was I saying? It was as if I was in a trance. A Caynan-induced trance. And my words were not my own. My body was not my own. My thoughts were not my own.
His lips twitched. “Is that a yes?”
I paused, trying to maintain every last shred of dignity I possessed. But I knew with every fiber of my being that Caynan Abbott would ruin me for all others. And when he finally kissed me, not only would it be explosive, but it would be something no one else would ever live up to.
I was so screwed.

 

I first discovered J. Nathan as a debut author with Before Alex and I was quickly a new fan. J writes wonderfully developed characters and swoon-worthy heroes and angsty romances that will hit the spot for any romance lover! Check out my review for BEFORE ALEX, and don’t miss J’s other book, SINCE DREW. Each book is a full standalone with a HEA!


UNTIL ALEX

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On the outside, Hayden is every girl’s living breathing fantasy, brooding and devastatingly gorgeous. And while he spends his nights losing himself in alcohol and faceless girls, it’s all just a facade. An elaborate cover for the emotionless shell of a man he is. One who harbors too many secrets and destroys lives the way his was destroyed. It’s the reason he avoids relationships and keeps everyone at arm’s length…

Until Alex

Alex’s life just shattered into a million pieces, leaving her with more grief than she knows what to do with and guilt so deep it’s destroyed the carefree girl she once was. Now she’s hundreds of miles from home, living with an aunt she doesn’t know, finishing senior year at a college she’s never been to, and trying desperately to get through a single day without breaking down. She’s never felt more alone in her life…

Until Hayden

The trouble with Hayden is who he wants to be and who he is are in constant flux. And though he’d die before letting Alex learn the truth about him, he can’t be sure he’s strong enough to let her in…or push her away. She’s the one person who just might see the real him.

New Adult/Contemporary Romance – Recommended for 17+ due to language, violence, and sexual content

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW


SINCE DREW22709310

All Andi Parker has ever wanted, all she’s ever dreamed of, is a spot on the Olympic track team. But when an accident leaves her hospitalized with serious injuries and shattered dreams, she’s not only uncertain what her future holds but also completely alone.

Drew Slater is a wanted man. Professional football teams want him for his arm. Women want him for his irresistible good looks and charming personality. But the well-crafted disguise he wears, the one that helps him score on and off the field, hides secrets. Conceals lies. Threatens the happiness of everyone around him.

One chance encounter brings Andi and Drew together, changing their worlds in ways they never thought possible. Unfortunately, what they thought they knew about themselves—and each other—might just be the biggest lie of all.

GOODREADS | AMAZON


About the Author

I’m an avid reader of all things romance-especially those with alpha males. The more unlikable they are in the beginning, the better. Happy endings are a must. Don’t leave me with an unexpected cliffhanger or someone dying in the end. I’ll mope around and be too embarrassed to explain why. Love triangles and negative people are the bane of my existence. My family, friends, sangria, and watermelon margaritas are the light…

Exclusive Excerpt & Giveaway: ★Dare to Run★ by Jen McLaughlin

Spotlight-DARE to RunDare to Run
Series: The Sons of Steel Row #1
Author: Jen McLaughlin
Release Date: February 2, 2016add-to-goodreads-button-2

dare to run comps_final.indd

The New York times bestselling author of the Out of Line Novels takes readers to Boston where one gang of criminals knows how being bad can be so good…
 
She knows what he’s like on Boston’s mean streets. Now she’s going to find out if he’s got some heart.

Lucas Donahue is not ashamed of his criminal past, but after a brief stint in prison, he’s ready to go legit and live a normal life. The problem is, no one leaves the gang without permission—even if he is one of the boss’s top men. Plus someone’s placed a hit on him. And then there’s that feisty little bartender who’s going to cause him even more trouble.

Heidi Greene knows to keep her distance from a ladies’ man like Lucas—even if she can’t keep her eyes off him. When he rescues her from an attack in the alley outside her bar, she’s forced to stay by his side for safety. But the longer she spends time with him, the greater her chances are for getting hurt in more ways than one.

Buy LinksAMAZON | B&N | iBOOKS | KOBO

[Read more…]

Exclusive Excerpt & Character Interview with Rick “Riff” Rotten SOFTER THAN STEEL

Spotlight- STS Softer Than Steel
Series: Love & Steel #2
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Jessica Topper
Release Date: September 15, 2015add-to-goodreads-button3

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From the author of Deeper than Dreams and the Much “I Do” About Nothing novels, a story that proves that you have to find yourself before you can find love…

As rock star “Riff Rotten”, Rick Rottenberg has enjoyed all the perks that fame can offer, especially now that he’s reunited with his former band mate, Adrian “Digger” Graves. But despite his success, Rick is a mess. Still reeling from the death of his wife years ago and terrified his demons will end his career, he agrees to seek help for his anxiety.

Burned by a musician in the past, Sidra Sullivan has closed her heart to love. So when Rick walks into her yoga studio, she wants nothing to do with him–until the bad boy shows an unexpected soft side.

As Sidra and Rick work through their painful pasts, they realize just how strongly opposites can attract. But when a crisis threatens the delicate balance they’ve forged, they’ll discover if their love is strong enough to weather another storm or just too broken to survive…

Buy-Links10Amazon / iBooks / B&N


I have been obsessed with all things Jessica Topper ever since she made me fall in love with a drunken reclusive rocker, Adrian “Digger” Graves in Louder Than Love. Then she made me fall even harder for him and Kat in their follow up novella, Deeper Than Dreams. All the while teasing me incessantly with the promise of  “Riff Rotten”, Adrian’s band mate and the man that’s still healing the wounds of his past. To say that I’ve been salivating to finally get my hands on his story would be an understatement. So I am beyond excited to be able to get the man himself on DGR today to answer all my questions. Plus don’t miss an exclusive excerpt and Jessica’s dream cast for Softer Than Steel after the interview. And now, without further ado, please welcome, Rick “Riff Rotten” Rottenberg….

 


ROCK STAR ALERT: Front man Rick “Riff” Rotten from the legendary British metal band Corroded Corpse, drops in on Dirty Girl Romance today! Riff’s been living under the radar in Hawaii since the death of his wife, raising his kids and staying out of the limelight. But the band is now back, in action and in high demand! This sexy singer has some secrets lurking under that dark and brooding brow of his. Not sure how much we can dig out of him, but let’s give it a shot. Here we go!

 

DGR: So…care to state your name and occupation?

Riff: The name’s Riff…and I’m here to soil your reputation rotten, my dear Lana.

DGR: (Fans self) Oh my, that accent! Is that all you do?

Riff: I guess I’m – to quote The Moody Blues – “just a singer in a rock and roll band.”

DGR: And lead guitarist, too – right?

Riff: Rhythm. (Leans back in chair, crosses arms) Digger plays lead.

DGR: You guys were huge back in the day, all over MTV and the radio. Then you just disappeared. Did you ever think you would be here, doing it all over again, in the 21st Century?

Riff: No way. We were such pompous and cocky young bastards. Self-destructive doesn’t even begin to describe it! I think my last words to Digger were “See you in hell.” I figured one of us would be dead, and the other would follow soon after. I never thought we’d be in the same room again, let alone share a stage! But it’s been great. We’re at the top of our game now.

DGR: I’ll say! All of Asia, then Germany, France, Spain…and now you’re plowing through the States…this reunion tour has been massive. Which country has the best fans?

Riff: Japan. Such polite people. Plus they pick up after themselves. Nothing worse than finishing a festival gig and watching people leave it littered like a bloody landfill.

DGR: So would you say you’re an environmentalist, Riff?

Riff: (shakes his long curls out) Not exactly. But I’ve got three boys to think of. Would like to leave the world a better place for them, you know?

DGR: Wow. Three sons. How do they like having a rock star for a father?

Riff: They’re like any other kids, really. Probably embarrassed by their old man, except when they need a loan or the keys to the car. (laughs)

DGR: I guess all kids are the same, huh? So, let me ask you some Coke or Pepsi-type questions. What’s your poison?

Riff: (laughs) Well, if we’re on tour, it’s more like Wine or Whiskey. If Digger’s fiancé is accompanying him, we stock the bus and green room with wine. Kat likes her Pinot! Juice boxes for Abbey, of course. As long as there’s a proper ale for Sam, and some craft beer for Jim, they’re happy as clams.

DGR: And for you?

Riff: Whiskey, now and then. I like the slow burn.

DGR: Fame or fortune?

Riff: Bloody hell. Both? Neither? Pass!

DGR: Tux or T-shirt?

Riff: (laughs and gestures down to his tight black tee, jeans and motorcycle boots) Pretty much my uniform. Although what did Kat call me when she saw me in a tux? Oh, yes – the James Bond of heavy metal.

DGR: You’ve mentioned Adrian – um, Digger’s – fiancée quite a bit. I take it you two get along?

Riff: She tolerates me. (chuckles) But seriously, if it weren’t for her, I wouldn’t be sitting here talking to you right now. There would be no album about to be recorded. She was instrumental in bringing us all back together.

DGR: Cheers to Kat! So you’re about to hit the studio in New York City and record your first new album in years. Exciting! What do you like to do in your off-time, in the city? Do you like to people-watch?

Riff: I like to find the prettiest girl in the room, and imagine taking her to bed. (Arches an eyebrow, stares pointedly) Usually, I’m not left imagining for very long.

DGR: Whoa. (blushes) That’s one way to pass the time. So I take it you’re single?

Riff: (somber) I’m a free agent, yes.

DGR: Watch out, ladies! Last one: Brains or beauty?

Riff: Actually, there’s nothing more beautiful than a woman who knows her own mind. (Smiles wistfully and stands) Thanks for humoring me today, luv. See you down at the show, then, right? Cheers.

DGR: Wouldn’t miss it for the world, Riff. Thanks for stopping by today!


DREAM CAST

Dream Cast- STS

Exclusive Softer Than Steel excerpt

Seventeen thousand fans can’t be wrong.                                                                            

Rick Rottenberg clipped his mic into its stand, lifted his face to the spots and hazers shining high above the Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy stage, and threw his head back, exalted. Sweat-soaked ringlets grazed the middle of his slick bare back. It had taken four years to grow his hair back out to acceptable headbanging, rock-and-roll length. Running a hand through the dark, unruly mass of curls, he smiled. Sometimes he forgot it was there, even dreamed his head was still shaved clean. He had kept it shorn like a Buddhist monk for so long, first in solidarity for Simone, then for years after for no reason he could ascertain.

Simone’s gone.

Gone.

Even in a sea of thousands, you’re alone.

Grimacing, he hoisted his guitar by its neck, high overhead.

The crowd’s response was visceral. A rolling current of fists raised, eyes squeezed shut, and a collective hoarse roar emanated from their throats. Rick ripped out his in-ear monitors by their cords, letting the sound hit his eardrums full-force. Like bracing himself for a hard wave, he took a wide stance in his black leather boots and steeled himself.

I was born to do this.

It was less a thought and more like a full-on sensory experience, as his eyes adjusted to the raised house lights and his ears welcomed the cacophony of applause. Dry ice from the fog machines burned his nose, and the ten-gauge steel of the guitar strings cut into his palm as he used his instrument like a conductor’s baton to whip the French crowd into a frenzied cyclone.

And he tasted victory.

It had taken four years. But Riff Rotten was back.

Because seventeen thousand screaming, rabid, shining, elated metal fans can’t be wrong.

Right?

 

Teaser Blitz: ★Falling for Danger★ by Chanel Cleeton

Falling for Danger 
Series: Capital Confessions #3
Author: Chanel Cleeton
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publication: September 15, 2015 by Penguin/InterMix
 

The author of Flirting with Scandal presents her third book in a sexy contemporary romance series about three sisters in a powerful political family, the scandals that threaten to destroy them, and the passion that drives them… 

Kate Reynolds has just graduated from college and is determined to make it on her own. Her job as a junior political analyst at the CIA is a dream come true and the perfect opportunity to find answers about the night that’s plagued her for four years—the night she lost her fiancé, Matt, on a Special Forces mission in Afghanistan. Kate’s consumed with uncovering the truth and avenging the man she loved and lost, even if it means risking her own life to prove that his death wasn’t an accident.

When she gets too close to discovering what happened that fateful night and danger arrives on her doorstep, Kate’s stunned by the man who comes to her rescue. Together, they begin to dig for the truth, fighting to stay alive as they’re dragged down into a world of secrets and lies. But when the threat hits close to home, Kate must choose between vengeance and a future with the man who’s ignited a fire inside her that she thought died long ago.

Buy LinksPRE-ORDER

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Teaser
___________________________________________________________
 
 Praise for the work of Chanel Cleeton:
Flirting with Scandal by Chanel Cleeton has it
all. A sexy hero, strong heroine, delicious romance, sizzling tension, and
plenty of breathtaking scandal.
I loved this book!

New York Times bestselling author Monica
Murphy
Scorching hot and wicked smart, Flirting with Scandal
had me hooked from page one! Sizzling with sexual tension and
political intrigue, Cleeton weaves a story that is as complex as it is sexy.
Thank God this is a series because I need more!!

New York Times bestselling author
Rachel Harris
Sexy, intelligent, and intriguing. Chanel Cleeton makes
politics scandal-icious. 

USA Today bestselling author 
Tiffany King

 


 

Check out Book 1 in the Capital Confessions series, Flirting with Scandal 

Check out Book 2 in the Capital Confessions series, Playing with Trouble 

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About the Author
Originally a Florida girl, CHANEL CLEETON moved to London where she received a bachelor’s degree from Richmond, The American International University in London and a master’s degree from the London School of Economics and Political Science. Chanel fell in love with London and planned to stay there forever, until fate intervened on a Caribbean cruise and a fighter pilot with smooth dance moves swept her off her feet. Now, a happily ever after later, Chanel is living her next adventure.

Law school made Chanel realize she’d rather spend her days writing sexy stories than in a courtroom, and she hasn’t looked back since. An avid reader and hopeless romantic, she’s happiest curled up with a book. She has a weakness for handbags, her three pups, and her husband.

Chanel writes contemporary romances. She is published by Harlequin HQN, Penguin/InterMix, and Penguin/Berkley and is the author of the International School, Capital Confessions, and Wild Aces series.

Flashback Friday with @mstessabailey

FBF-Dirty TalkersConfession time: I. Love. Dirty. Talkers. True story. The filthier their mouths, the more I lust after them. And when it comes to dirty talkers, let’s just be honest here; no one writes them quite like Tessa Bailey. There’s a reason I say that Tessa Bailey books make my ovaries happy and her dirty talkers are the biggest reason for it. The woman is the queen of dirty talk. I’m not even kidding. I tried to think back to the book hat truly started this obsession for me, and the only name that kept popping up in my mind was Derek Tyler. Hot cop and dirty talker extraordinaire. Now I’ve read plenty of erotic romance before this book, so I’ve read my fair share of dirty talkers before it as well. But then there was just something about Tessa’s dirty talking alphas that just flipped a switch for me. So no matter how many other alphas I read before this, I can say without a doubt, that Derek Tyler is the one that truly began my confession with dirty talkers. I read this pretteh the day it was released in February of 2013 and still remember everything about it like I read it yesterday.

Let me be clear, Ginger, since you insist on talking in circles. I want you underneath me in my bed. I want to be buried inside you so deep that I have to remind you of your own name. And I want those motherfuckers leering at you from the other side of the bar to smell me on you for a week afterward.”

Got your attention now? Good! So let’s talk about this book a little, shall we?

The longer it takes me to get between your thighs, the rougher I’m going to be when I finally get there. Understand?” 

Yes, Derek, we got it. Quit interrupting me, I’m trying to gather my thoughts here! Gawd. Where was I?

That was for the hard-on I’ll be walking around with tonight. And you’ll goddamn wear the imprint of my hand on your ass for it.”

Dammit! Now I lost my train of thought again….

If you’ve read this book, then you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about here. And if you haven’t, I’m pretty sure it’s getting a little dark under that rock you’ve been living under and you need to crawl out and finally see the light.

This book had everything! A sassy heroine, a super sexy, dirty talking hot cop, great banter, hot sex, and an awesome story to boot. It was what first began my obsession with this author and I haven’t looked back since. I’ve read her entire back list for fuck’s sake and I’ll never get enough of her alphas.

What color are your panties?”
“Excuse me?”
“You heard me.”
“Why?”
“Baby, if I’m going to take you into a room full of men wearing that dress, I’m damn well going to be the only one who knows the color of your panties.” 

and because I can keep these coming ALL DAY LONG, here’s another Derek quote

Listen to me, baby. From the time we walk in the door to my apartment, you will have less than a minute before I put my cock inside you. No foreplay. No kissing. There won’t be any time, because you’ve got me strung so damn tight I can barely think straight. I need you to keep yourself wet for me on the ride home. Starting now.”

I swear I’m done now. I’d love to hear about your favorite dirty talkers in the comments! 😉


About The Book PROTECTING WHAT’S HIS
Series: Line of Duty #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: February 25, 2013add-to-goodreads-button3

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She’s running from the law, and the law wants her bad.

The opportunity was just too damn delicious for Ginger Peet to pass up. The purse full of money she finds—$50,000 to be exact—could give her and her teen sister the new start they need. So she grabs the cash, her gothy sibling, and their life-sized statue of Dolly Parton, and blows outta Nashville in a cloud of dust. Chicago, here we come…

Turns out, Chicago has some pretty hot cops. Hot, intense, naughty-lookin’ cops like Derek Tyler, who looks like he could eat a girl up and leave her begging for more. And more. Tempting as he is, getting involved with the sexy homicide lieutenant next door poses a teensy problem for a gal who’s on the lam. But one thing is certain—Derek’s onto her, and he wants more than just a taste.

And as far as he’s concerned, possession is nine-tenths of the law

Buy-Links10Amazon / B&N / iBooks

Review, Character Interview & #Giveaway: ★HOT & BOTHERED★ by @LynnRayeHarris

Spotlight HOT& BOTHERED

If you follow my reviews at all then you already know my obsession with all things HOT. I’m a huge fan of Romantic Suspense and Lynn Raye Harris’s Hostile Operations Team series has quickly become my go-to books when I’m in the mood for some sizzling and action packed romantic suspense. Her heroes are to die for and her heroines are no females to be reckoned with; they can kick some serious ass. Having read the entire series to-date, I can honestly tell you that these books only continue to get better and better.

Today I have the uber sexy Ryan “Flash” Gordon from Lynn’s most recent release, HOT AND BOTHERED. Hot and Bothered is the 8th book in the series and features Ryan and Emily, who we briefly met as Victoria Royal’s sister in HOT REBEL. While Hot and Bothered may be read as a standalone, you’ll enjoy the books a lot more reading the series in order. Or if you’re thinking of starting with Hot and Bothered, I recommend that you at least read Hot Rebel first to better get the background of these characters.

Don’t forget to scroll to the bottom of this post to enter the awesome giveaway for a chance to win a signed paperback of any book from the Hostile Operations Team series.


About The Book

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He can never have her. Having her means the end of his career in the Hostile Operations Team. But when he learns she’s carrying his child, he’ll have to make a choice…

Ryan “Flash” Gordon has been drawn to Emily Royal bin Yusuf since the first moment he met her. But she’s a terrorist’s widow, which means she’s completely off-limits. A HOT special operator can never be with a woman whose name is on government watch lists the world over.

But when Emily begs him for just one night, he can’t refuse. The next morning, she’s gone. Not just from his bed, but from his life.

Emily can never clear her name—or can she? When a rogue CIA operative offers her a chance to put her past behind her and do something for her country, she leaps at the opportunity—even though it means leaving behind the man she’s fallen in love with. But not before she lets herself have one night with him.

One night with stunning consequences…

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He speared his free hand into her hair, tilted her head back. “Emily. Jesus, what you do to me…”
“What, Ry?” she whispered, her throat tight and raw. “What do I do to you?”
“This,” he growled- and then he kissed her.

Lynn’s Hostile Operations Team is one of those series that just addictingly good. It doesn’t matter how many books she’ll write for it because I know I’ll read every single one. Every. Single. One. They’re that good. It’s the perfect combination of sizzling romance with heartpounding suspense. It’s action packed and sexy. It’s everything I love about romantic suspense and I can’t recommend this series enough!

Each book in this series may be read as a standalone as each one features a different couple with a fully finished suspense plot and a HEA. With this book, however, I highly recommend you read Hot Rebel first. Hot Rebel serves as the perfect set up for Emily’s book and will give the reader some bonus backstory that will make Hot And Bothered a much more enjoyable read. (Also it was an amazing book). Hot Rebel features Emily’s sister, Victoria Royal, but it also introduces Emily. I think it will make you understand her better as a character, as well as her connection with Ryan. I felt like the story here almost began in the process of their relationship, and readers that haven’t read Hot Rebel may feel a slight disconnect. That being said, on to the review.

How did she do this to him? How did she twist him up inside so thoroughly and make him uncertain which way was up?

Ryan “Flash” Gordon has always been the easy-going jokester in his HOT team. But when Emily Royal came along, it threw everything he thought he knew for a loop.

Emily’s connection to a known terrorist, albeit a now dead one, has forever tarnished her life. Being the wife of said terrorist, it doesn’t matter if she was the one to help bring him down, she’s on the government watch list and even though she yearns for Ryan with her whole being, she knows that they can never be together. After all, he’s a soldier, and she’s the widow of a terrorist that’s on the government’s no fly list. She’s be the death of his military career. But when the mysterious Ian Black offers her an out that will clear her record, even while putting her in danger, she doesn’t even have to think twice. She leaves everything and everyone she knows behind to fly back to the one place she hoped never to see again. But not before spending one unforgettable night with the man that means everything to her…

If she could get closer to him, she would. if she could be a part of him, she would. But this had to be enough, this beautiful melding of two sweat-slick bodies.

Hot and Bothered offered a little something that it’s predecessors have not, additional POVs. And while usually I’d feel it would take away from the main story, here it only heightened it. That could be in large due to the additional POVs being those of Ian Black and Commander Mendez, the two men that I’m absolutely dying for a story for. There’s definitely the set up for a hell of a book for both of them, and I can’t wait to get my grabby little hands on those.

I was a little afraid that Emily would be a little too weak for my tastes, especially given her history. I was very happy to see that she truly grew into her own in this book. She came off as a little different, weaker, in the beginning, which threw me off a bit, but that certainly changed further in the book. Ryan was always walking on egg shells when it came to her, but I was happy to see that he got his growly and possessive side here.

While I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it just didn’t have that added oompf that the rest of this series had for me. Now considering I’ve loved every single book in the series, that’s not exactly a bad thing. I still liked it, it just wasn’t my favorite. I’m not sure exactly what was missing, but it just never grabbed me like the others did. Maybe because I felt like the romance felt rushed in some ways (view spoiler). Hot and Bothered was still a fantastic addition to an already favorite series and I can’t wait to see what the next books brings. I’m really hoping Ian will be next because you already know his book will be one hell of a ride!


Now without further ado, since I do have a sexy soldier in my presence right now, let’s get to the interview, shall we?


DGR: Ryan “Flash” Gordon, I’m so excited to have you at DGR today. Hope I’m not keeping you from any dire HOT missions.

Ryan: Nah, glad to be here. Anything for a lovely lady. *winks*

DGR: Can we start out with you introducing yourself and telling us a little more about yourself.

Ryan: *scratches back of neck* Not much to tell. I’m Ryan Gordon, known as Flash to my teammates. After a hard day saving the world, I like a cold beer and a soft woman in my bed. I drive a Ram Big Horn, listen to country music, and my favorite food is a cheeseburger. What else is there to know?

DGR: You HOT boys sure have some great nicknames, Ice, Knight Rider, Big Mac, Hawk… How’d you get the name “Flash”?

Ryan: Team names are meant to be an inside joke most of the time. No real surprise then that the guys thought it was amusing to call me Flash Gordon. *smirks*

DGR: You’ve always been the easy going jokester in the group, does that help you get through the difficult missions with your team?

Ryan: *looks a little sheepish* Yeah, maybe so. I think life is hard enough so why not laugh at it, you know?

DGR: How did you get involved with HOT to begin with? What was the appeal of it for you?

Ryan: I joined the Army for the usual reasons. A job with good pay and benefits and the GI Bill for school. But I kinda excelled at the hard stuff. I enjoy it. So I went through Ranger training. After some time with the Rangers, I got recruited for the Green Berets and then HOT. It wasn’t easy getting in, but I worked my ass off. I like doing things no one thinks possible. HOT is damned near impossible for most recruits. We’re elite, and I like it that way.

DGR: Which HOT member would you say is the most serious?

Ryan: If you count the colonel, then it’s definitely Mendez. If we’re talking my squad, then I’d probably have to go with Ice. Not that he’s all that frigging serious — but he’s quiet and he’s got a raw edge that makes him look deadly serious at all times. Then again, Hawk is pretty serious too.

DGR: You recently got some SEAL additions to the team, have you gotten to know much about them yet?

Ryan: Dane’s a good guy to have at your back in a firefight. If the rest of the SEALs are like him, then yeah, I can’t wait to work with them. They’ve only just arrived so I don’t know them too well yet. But Remy Marchand is a Cajun like my team leader, Matt “Richie Rich” Girard, and they seem to have hit it off. I trust Richie with my life, so that’s good enough for me.

DGR: There’s been a lot of pairing off with the HOT boys lately, marriages and babies on the way, any special lady you have your sights on?

Ryan: *drops gaze to lap* Yeah, well, maybe that’s not for me. There’s this one woman… but, no, it’d never work. She deserves better than a guy who does what I do for a living.

DGR: Can you describe your perfect woman for us?

Ryan: She’s smart and strong but she lets me take care of her because she knows it’s what I do. I don’t want a yes woman. I want a woman who challenges me — but not too much, right? *winks*

DGR: Do you ever see yourself quitting HOT and joining civilian life if you meet the right woman?

Ryan: I try not to think about that. I just have to get through the next mission.

DGR: What would you say your biggest strength is?

Ryan: I’m loyal. And I have a big (there’s a long pause) heart. *grins* What did you think I was going to say, sugar?

DGR: Now what about your biggest weakness?

Ryan: Honey, I don’t have any weaknesses. I can’t afford to be weak.

DGR: What would you say is your biggest desire?

Ryan: Long walks on the beach, cuddling by the fire, listening to everything about your day…. *snorts* Nah, it’s hot sex with a beautiful woman. Pretty much the same for all dudes.

DGR: Well, I don’t want to keep you too long since I’m sure you have more important things to do, like protecting the country and all that. Let’s end things on a light note; tell us about your fondest memory.

Ryan: I thought it was the day I got my Ranger Tab. Then I thought it was the day I got through the Q-course for being a Green Beret. But nope, it was the day I got selected for HOT. Not that I can confirm or deny the existence of HOT, you understand. Just wanted to add that. I know you’ve mentioned it a couple of times now, but it’s all hypothetical.

DGR: Thanks so much for stopping by DGR today, anything you’d like to say to end things with?

Ryan: Thanks for inviting me to be here with the dirty girls. I like dirty girls. I like them very much. You just let me know how dirty you want to be, sweetheart. I’m down with that…


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Flashback Friday with Linda Howard

FBF-After The Night

You know that whole adage about not judging a book by its cover? Well this is the perfect example of that. This cover may not look like much, but inside is one of the most memorable and incredible books ever written. If you’ve met Gray Rouillard than you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about. My reading binge first started with PNR and then short after moved on to Romantic Suspense and then to Contemporary Romance. Linda Howard was THE first contemporary romance author I read, and this was my first book by her. To say that I then binged on all her other titles would probably be a mild understatement. But this book? This book had, hands down, one of my favorite asshole heroes to date. Period.

He was a strong, healthy young man, with a sex drive that had shown no signs of slacking off since his middle teens. it was a persistent burning in his guts, a hungry ache in his balls. He was lucky enough to be able to get women to ease that hunger, and cynical enough to realize that his family’s money added to his sexual success.

There’s one scene in this book that stands out in particular to me because holy sex scene batman! I’ll tell you this, it involves a porch, a column, and one of the hottest standing sex scenes evah!

I want to fuck you,” he muttered indistinctly, the sound low and harsh as he hoisted her a bit, adjusting her position. “Let me in. Now.

I love a book that gives great banter, and the hate lust thing that was happening here? *Pervy dreamy sigh* One of my very favorites. Faith grew up as the poor girl from the wrong side of the tracks that’s always been in love with the rich and unattainable Gray. Twelve years ago her life was shattered by him, but now she’s back to right the wrongs even if that means coming back to the town that shunned her. To say that Gray is less than happy to see her would be an understatement, but the chemistry between them is absolutely scorching from the very first meeting. This is no insta-love story, but gawd did it have some of the best sexual chemistry and banter I’ve read in a while.

Danger glittered in those dark eyes, and before she knew it, he was right in front of her again, almost playfully pinching her chin. “You’re a ballsy little babe, aren’t you? Maybe too ballsy for your own good. Don’t take me on in a fight, sweet thing, because you’ll get hurt.


 

Her opinion of him wasn’t very high, he thought wryly.
Hell, why should it be? On a steamy summer night twelve years ago, he had ground her into the dirt. After that night, she probably thought of him as the devil incarnate.


I first read AFTER THE NIGHT back in 2011, and to this day it’s probably still one of my most re-read romances. I must have read it at least 5 times in the years since. It’s my go-to when I need a guaranteed winner and a good dose of alphahole.

You haven’t listened to my… suggestions yet.”
“I don’t intend to, either. Go back to your table and leave me alone.”
“I’d planned on doing the first.” He stood and trailed a long forefinger down her cheek. “There’s no way in hell I’ll do the last.”

About The BookAFTER THE NIGHT
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Linda Howard
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FAITH DEVLIN:

A poor, outcast child in Prescott, Louisiana, she’d always adored the town’s golden boy from afar. But he called her white trash that sultry Southern night when his rich, respected father disappeared, along with her pretty Mom. Now Faith wanted to hate Gray Rouillard…not to feel a powerful surge of desire. But she couldn’t quench her passion, any more than she could hide the truth about the past she had waited so long to unravel.

GRAY ROUILLARD:

Even when he raised hell, he did it with style. Reckless, charming, and backed by Rouillard money, Gray controlled the town of Prescott — and Devlin was a name he never wanted to hear again. But when he gazed at Faith Devlin, all he saw was a swirl of tangled sheets and her silken flesh beneath him. To care for her was impossible, unthinkable…because Gray Rouillard planned to use all his power to ruin

 

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Have you read After the Night? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below 🙂
Or just tell me about some of your favorite alphahole heroes and books

Flashback Friday with Susan Elizabeth Phillips

FlashBack Friday Aug 7

I wanted to switch things up here in DGR land. I know I post lots of new releases and reviews, but what about the oldies? No, I’m not talking taking you back to the 80’s here, but those fantastic books that aren’t recent releases that made me fall and fall hard. So now every Friday I’m going to be taking you guys back with me to remember the books that truly made an impression on me. Whether it be my favorite Friends-to-lovers, second chance romance, favorite sex scene (uhem), favorite anti-hero, favorite dirty talker, enemies-to-lovers, suspense, PNR, you get the idea here 😉

When I was thinking of what book I should start off there was honestly no other book that stood out to me more than IT HAD TO BE YOU by Susan Elizabeth Phillips. It Had to Be You was book 1 in Susan’s Chicago Stars / Bonner Brothers series and quite honestly it was THE book that made me realize just how deliciously perfect a well written enemies-to-lovers book could be.

“I must have your promise, Coach, that you won’t hurt her.”
“I promise.”
“You spoke a bit too quickly for my taste. I don’t quite believe you.”
“I’m a man of my word, and I promise that I won’t hurt her. When I murder her, I’ll do it real quick, so she won’t feel a thing.”
Viktor sighed. “That’s exactly what I was afraid of.” 

That quote right there gives you just the right taste of the tone of this amazing book. Fabulously snarky, wonderfully humorous, and with a sexual tension that’s so fiery hot that it’s pretty much guaranteed to turn every ovary within a 20 mi radius blue.

”I guess we’re oil and water.”
“I’d say we’re more like gasoline and a blowtorch.”

Dan and Phoebe are still two of my favorite contemporary romance MCs. Then there was Pooh and his nervous peeing on a grave during a funeral…Seriously. I think I had a goofy smile on my face the entire time reading it. Dan is the perfect combination of grumpy and swoony, and Phoebe was an absolute bombshell. I adored her! If this book hasn’t hit your radar yet, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s a must read!

About The Book


It Had To Be You
Series: Chicago Stars #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: October 13, 2009add-to-goodreads-button31

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The Windy City isn’t quite ready for Phoebe Somerville—the outrageous, curvaceous New York knockout who has just inherited the Chicago Stars football team. And Phoebe is definitely not ready for the Stars’ head coach, former gridiron legend Dan Calebow, a sexist jock taskmaster with a one-track mind. Calebow is everything Phoebe abhors. And the sexy new boss is everything Dan despises—a meddling bimbo who doesn’t know a pigskin from a pitcher’s mound.

So why is Dan drawn to the shameless sexpot like a heat-seeking missile? And why does the coach’s good ol’ boy charm leave cosmopolitan Phoebe feeling awkward, tongue-tied…and ready to fight?

The sexy, heartwarming, and hilarious “prequel” to This Heart of Mine—Susan Elizabeth Phillips’s New York Times bestselling blockbuster—It Had To Be You is an enchanting story of two stubborn people who believe in playing for keeps.

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READ THE SERIES IN ORDER

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