When it comes to a good story, I always start with character. Well, characters. My hero and heroine. If I can see them. Get inside their heads. Then I can’t write their story. Back when I used to do Pern fan fiction, the first thing you had to fill out was the character sheet. If your character was interesting enough then you were accepted to be part of the writing group and the more complete the sheet. the more interesting the character and the more you had to write about. I’ve found this is true now, too.

While I don’t do a formal “persona sheet” anymore, I do still do character sketches so I know my characters’ background. Here are the character sketches I developed for Joe and Mandy, my hero and heroine for Cupid Rocks. I hope you enjoy them!

***

Joseph Schwarzerwulf / Joe Blackwolf.

Joe was born February 9, 1973—just turned 40. He plays guitar. He’s 6’1” and 190 lbs.  He has large hands.  Left hand has short nails and calluses on the fingertips. Right hand has long nails and no calluses.

He feels like he’s the family “disappointment” because he went into rock music instead of becoming a classical guitarist.  He legally changed his name to Joseph Blackwolf when he started playing in rock bands at the age of 20.

He is the oldest of three sons born to Leopold and Maria and his brothers are Jacob (opera singer) and Julian (trumpeter).

Joe’s musical influences:  Andres Segovia, Christopher Parkening, Jeff Beck, Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, Eddie Van Halen, Yngwie Malmsteen – since joining The Pack he’s discovered blues guitarists due to Eddie Goldwolf’s encouragement.

Joe practices four to six hours daily.  If he can manage it, he practices eight. He’s a disciplined musician who is determined to be technically excellent.  He’s driven to prove that he’s as good a musician as his father even though he doesn’t play classical music.  If he doesn’t have time to practice enough before a gig he can play well but doesn’t feel as “prepared” as he thinks he should be.

When he left home (and college) at twenty to pursue rock music his father gave him a Les Paul sunburst Gibson guitar.  Joe has many guitars but he practices and almost always performs using the LP.  He still has the Hauser acoustic guitar his father gave him when he began playing classical guitar.  When he practices classical music, he’ll pick up the Hauser to practice on.  He also takes the Hauser on stage to play acoustic tunes.

***

Mandy Goldwolf

Mandy was born July 28, 1977 – she’s 35 years old. Mandy is a plus-size female who makes the most of her curves. She knows males love her full breasts and round butt, but she still sometimes worries about her body. She is the only pup of Eddie and Carly Goldwolf and while she knows she is well loved by them both, her childhood wasn’t simple or idyllic.

Her parents, Eddie and Carly, met when they were twenty and eighteen, respectively, and have been together ever since. Their mating wasn’t an easy one, despite the fact that her parents were—and are—True Mates. Eddie resented finding his mate so young because he didn’t get the chance to get wild with females and live out the whole “sex, drugs and rock and roll” dream. Also, Carly’s father looked down his regal nose at Eddie and Eddie responded by going on benders and disappearing for days. When Mandy was ten, Eddie finally chose to dry out. Now, Eddie regrets putting his mate and his daughter through such hell, but Mandy remembers it and it colors her budding relationship with Joe.

Mandy loves music. She was born in The Pack and sang with the band from a very young age. However, when she was eighteen, she had a traumatic performance experience. She participated in a competition and forgot the words to a song, completely freezing on stage. It was so bad that Carly had to come onstage to help her off. From then on, Mandy developed stage fright. It grew worse and worse until she quit performing in public.

Since she could no longer perform, she chose to follow her second love…photography. She shoots portrait work to make money, but loves to do art photography too.

***

Mandy and Joe together

When they meet, the attraction is immediate and fiery. But there are some bumps along the way because Joe still views himself as the black sheep of his family and keenly feels his father’s disapproval. Mandy is still fighting her stage fright and has some baggage about her parents’ history. Joe and Eddie have built a friendship, but Eddie has an almost pathological fear that his daughter will end up with a musician like him and this fear rebounds on Joe, when Mandy’s parent’s find out about the relationship.

Cupid Rocks revolves around the family issues in Mandy and Joe’s life and how they work through their problems to end up strong and together in the happily ever after they deserve.

* * * * *

Here’s the story blurb:

Cupid Rocks

When her parents’ rock band, The Pack, performs at Zach’s bar, Mandy discovers her True Mate, Joe Blackwolf, the band’s lead singer and guitarist. All she has to do now is convince Joe that she told a little white lie to make her mom happy, her father that rock musicians aren’t all alike, and her new mate’s family that rockers aren’t all that different from classical musicians.

Joe Blackwolf is celebrating his 40th birthday. And what he wishes for when he blows out the candles is to find his True Mate. He succeeds when he meets Mandy Goldwolf. Problem is…she belongs to someone else. Finding out the truth leaves him free to explore every inch of her smokin’ hot curves, but now, Joe and Mandy are neck deep in overbearing relatives and everyone is in for a rockin’ Valentine’s Day!

* * * * *

Excerpt:

By reading any further, you are stating that you are at least 18 years of age. If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary to exit this site.

An Excerpt From: Cupid Rocks

Copyright © FRANCESCA HAWLEY, 2013

All Rights Reserved, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.

“Am I dead, Angel? Cause you look like you’re straight from heaven!”

“That has to be the worst line I’ve ever heard,” Mandy laughed, looking up into warm brown eyes. She shivered as he settled into the chair beside her.

“Maybe, but it made you laugh.” He took her hand. “Can I buy you a drink?”

Joe waved over a waiter and ordered for them without once releasing her hand. She could feel the rough calluses guitar playing had created on his fingers, but they turned her on. He turned her on.

This was Joe? “Good ole Joe” as Eddie called him. He was neither good nor old. No. He was gorgeous…and talented. Zach wasn’t kidding when he’d said this Blackwolf was a great guitarist and singer. For the first time since Carly bugged her, she wished with all her might she hadn’t lied about Zach being her mate. Zach might be handsome, but Joe made her throb in places that hadn’t throbbed in all of her thirty-five years.

“So what’s with the camera, Angel? Fan or reporter?”

Mandy looked down at her fingers clenched around her camera strap. If she told him who she was, he’d back off so fast she’d see skid marks on the floor. Just this once, she wanted to pretend she was someone else. Just tonight. She leaned forward pressing her lips against his ear.

“I’m more than a fan. I’m a groupie. Can’t you tell?” He shuddered, turning his head he met her gaze. The fire glowing in his eyes set her boiling. Yes. She had to have him. Now.

“A groupie? For just any rock musician?”

“No, Joe. I want you.”

“Fuck, yeah,” he growled, standing so abruptly his chair toppled over. No one nearby noticed as he dragged her to her feet. “Where?”

Mandy looked over toward the hallway leading to Zach’s office and smiled. They had a clear path. She pulled him after her and they ducked into the shadowy space. He pressed her to the wall and took her mouth in a deep kiss. Their mouths meshed together. Joe pulled back to nip at her lips, then ran his tongue along the inside edge of her lower lip. She caught his long dark hair in her fingers, holding his mouth to hers.

Fire. Heat. She’d never felt anything like this in her entire life. She moaned as his mouth slid to nuzzle her neck. Mandy wrapped her free arm around him, clutching his leather jacket. She lifted her right leg along his hip. He stepped into the opening she’d created, thrusting his hips against hers.

She shivered as his rough fingers slid along her leg and under her skirt. He slipped his fingers under her panties and cupped her ass. Grasping her, he pulled her more firmly against his hard cock. He reached up to her peasant top, untying the drawstring to bare her bra covered breast. His hot breath teased her neck and then his warm tongue grazed her skin as he licked his way over her curves

“Hey. Anyone seen Joe?” Mandy and Joe froze as she heard Eddie’s voice. He was close. Too close. She looked out of the entrance of the hall. She didn’t see him, but he was right there. She knew it. Mandy closed her eyes, fighting to keep her panting excitement from giving them away.

“I think I saw him with a hot chick earlier. I didn’t get a good look at her though. Just noticed she was his type.” Tom responded with a laugh.

Joe groaned in her ear, and kissed her cheek. She turned to look up at him. He was still on fire, she could see it but there was a definite question in his dark eyes? Stop or go?

She lowered her leg and he sighed, then she smiled and grabbed his hand. “This way,” she whispered.

Mandy knew there was an empty unlocked office back here and she wanted this wolf and she wanted him now. He chuckled as they moved into the darkness. She found the door on the right and turned the knob. Hearing the click, she pushed, wincing at the creak when the door stuck. He pushed her through and they shut the door behind them. Mandy flipped the light switch, blinking a bit to adjust to the table lamps that came on. She’d been expecting an overhead. They looked at each other and grinned.

Joe pulled her over to the empty desk and she climbed up onto it. He stroked her cheek. “You’re sure?”

“Yes. I don’t want to stop. Not now.”

* * * * *

Released from Ellora’s Cave on February 22, 2013.

* * * * *

Francesca Hawley, author bio

I’m Francesca Hawley and I’m a fat chick. A woman with dangerous curves just like my heroines.

I first began to read romance when I was in my teens. I loved the genre, but the heroines were all thin. Their thighs didn’t rub together…had never rubbed together…and frankly I had trouble relating to these ladies. The stories were great—full of emotion and well told, but the heroines weren’t like me and that was a major disappointment.  I kept wondering where were the fat heroines? I found some occasionally, but to have their Happily Ever After they usually had to lose weight and go from ugly duckling to swan.

Well, I wanted a fat heroine who loved herself—or at least learned to love herself—and a hot alpha hero who liked her jiggly bits just the way they were. Since I didn’t find many big girls to read about, I decided  to write about them myself. After all, I loved to write anyway and had been writing almost as long as I’d been reading, so Francesca Hawley – author of Romance with Dangerous Curves was born.

In a Francesca Hawley romance, my readers will find authentic, sensual, fat heroines who love and are loved by their intense, passionate, and seductive Alpha heroes. I hope you enjoy their dangerous curves just as much as their hunky heroes do.

web site – http://www.francescahawley.com/

blog – http://francescasmindstream.blogspot.com/

facebook – https://www.facebook.com/FrancescaHawley.author

twitter – https://twitter.com/francescahawley

goodreads – http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/608399.Francesca_Hawley

pinterest – http://pinterest.com/francescahawley/

yahoo group -  http://groups.yahoo.com/group/francescahawley/

Hi all,

This is Francesca Hawley and I’m thrilled to announce that on December 21, I will have a new release available from Ellora’s Cave Publishing. My new book is titled Leader of the Pack. It will be my first new book in over a year. It’s a follow-up to Alpha vs. Alpha, but both can stand alone.

I’ve written many stories with male pack leaders, but in Protect and Defend, I indicated that females could be pack leaders. It just wasn’t typical. So in the back of my mind, I considered the idea of a female pack leader. How would that work? Especially if her True Mate was an alpha male? That’s where Leader of the Pack came from and I’m really happy with how it turned out.

Yohana is a kickass female who knows how to leader her pack and is willing to make sacrifices. Per (pronounced like the fruit – pear) is a healer who cares for people, but he’s also an alpha male. He loves Yohana’s strength, yet there’s conflict between them as they work out who holds the top position at any given time. I had fun reintroducing Predator-Match.com to my shapeshifter world as both Yohana and Per utilize the services of the matchmaking agency to find a Mate. I loved including Serena in this story, too. It was fun to revisit her and her relationship with Damien – if only briefly.

Here’s the blurb:

Surgeon Dr. Per Goldwolf needs a mate to make partner in a prestigious practice. Predator-Match.com—a matchmaking service for shapeshifters—not only finds him a mate, they match him with his True Mate. Yohana’s long legs and fair flesh make him lick his lips and her scent makes him rock-hard.

New packleader Yohana Whitewolf’s life goal is to follow in her sire’s pawprints and lead her pack. Leadership demands sacrifices. To calm her people, Yohana needs a mate. But finding an Alpha male who won’t take over is a tall order. Yohana doesn’t want the complication of a True Mate, but Per is a sexy, intelligent Alpha male and she wants to shred his clothes every time she touches him.

Everything should be perfect—except she’s a packleader, and the Whitewolf pack is nervous.

Read the excerpt – visit the Ellora’s Cave web site. Here’s the link…

* * * * *

To start new readers off right, I’d like to run a contest. If you comment today or tomorrow, you win an electronic copy of Alpha vs. Alpha for your reading pleasure. If you already own AvA, you can choose one of the other books from my backlist. I’ll announce the winners on Wednesday!

As we move into November, we begin to think about Thanksgiving. First thoughts are usually about the big meal or the huge number of expected guests or the long trip to visit family. But we also think about what we’re grateful for. This year, that theme is particularly poignant for me. In October, I lost my job so life has become far more challenging just to get through each day. But I find that I am grateful for many things.

• I’m grateful that I’ll begin receiving unemployment soon. This will allow me to keep a roof over my head and pay my most pressing bills for the next few months.
• I’m grateful that there is a social safety net available for people in the form of food stamps.
• Oddly, I’m grateful for the extra time that I now have to write. I’ve wanted to try to write full time and I’ve been forcibly given that opportunity, even as I look for a full time position.
• I’m grateful for the support of friends and family. They have offered suggestions. Emotional support and even in some cases, financial support. I’m very thankful for all the help I’ve received. It has been heartwarming.
• I’m grateful for my cats. If I’m feeling low, they come to cuddle up with me and I feel better.
• I’m grateful for the little things. The things that cost nothing. Like a bright sunny day. Laughter. Going for a walk.
• I’m grateful for my readers. They make me smile and give me a reason to move forward. They like me, they really like me. LOL
• I’m grateful for hope. For believing that things will get better. Even when I get depressed at times, something will happen which will leave me feeling like tomorrow will improve. That I can move forward and all this happened for a reason.

In spite of this setback in my world. Life is good. I’m moving forward with that because for now, it’s the best thing to hold on to.

Last week I finally finished and submitted a new story to Ellora’s Cave. I wrote a follow-up to Alpha vs. Alpha using the Predator-Match.com matchmaking service as the device to get my hero and heroine together. I’m very pleased with this story and I really like my hero and heroine. What’s so important about this story is that it’s been over a year since I had a release out. With my health issues last year, my production went to nil. This year I have come back from it and feel kind of phoenix-like with regards to my writing.

My only worry is that my previous editor at EC left and I’ve been reassigned. Now, I have heard from my crit partner (and others) that my new editors at EC are awesome, but I’m really kind of nervous about what their response will be to the story. Changing editors is just a part of this business and I know this…intellectually. But emotionally…not so much. My previous editor was the one who pulled me out of the slush pile and offered me my first contract. Mary was great to work with and I wish her well, but I am kind of nervous about my reception. I really hope my new editors love it! Keep your fingers crossed for me!

One thing that’s very good is that I’m confident in this story. I like my characters. The sex is hot. The conflict works, the end makes sense and it’s emotional. That makes me very happy. I’m proud of myself and very pleased that my characters decided to cooperate with me this time. So what’s the story about? Let me give you a taste. I hope you like it.

* * * * *

Leader of the Pack

©Francesca Hawley

Surgeon Dr. Per Goldwolf needs a mate to make partner in a prestigious practice.  Predator-Match.com—a matchmaking service for shapeshifters—not only finds him a mate, they match him with his True Mate. Yohana’s long legs and fair flesh make him lick his lips and her scent makes him rock hard.

New packleader Yohana Whitewolf’s life goal is to follow in her sire’s pawprints and lead her pack. Leadership demands sacrifices. To calm her people, Yohana needs a mate. But finding an Alpha male who won’t take over is a tall order. Yohana didn’t want the complication of a True Mate, but Per is a sexy, intelligent Alpha male and she wants to shred his clothes every time she touches him.

Everything should be perfect—except she’s a packleader— and the Whitewolf pack is nervous.

* * * * *

By reading any further, you are stating that you are at least 18 years of age. If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary to exit this site.

An Excerpt From: Leader of the Pack

Copyright © FRANCESCA HAWLEY, 2012

Leader of the Pack

Chapter One

Yohana Whitewolf paced Serena Goldwolf’s office barely containing her irritation and impatience. Between the flu plague sweeping through most of Denver, and her pack’s pressure to provide an heir, Yohana was ready to kill something.

Yohana knew the only way to prevent the pack from splintering was to find a Mate and soon, so she stayed in the deserted office. Her sire had died only six months ago, so she needed a firmer grasp on the job of packleader. A Mate and a pup were distraction to the vital work she must do. She sighed. Still, she needed to placate them in order to keep her place or the pack would disintegrate. She couldn’t allow it. She had a duty to prevent it, and she’d made a promise to Jeremiah—her father.

Yo restrained her annoyance because most of Serena’s staff at the shapeshifter match service Predator-Match.com was out with the flu, leaving them short-handed. The flu was sweeping through the Whitewolf pack too, so she could relate. Serena rushed into the room, flopping into her chair with a sigh. Yohana smiled reluctantly at her long-time friend.

“I think I need roller skates today, Yo. I am so sorry I’ve kept you waiting. There are just two of us in the office and of course we couldn’t reach people to cancel.” Serena groaned.

“I don’t think your Mate would approve of a female in your condition on roller skates.” Yohana’s dry response elicited a laugh from Serena. Serena patted her rounded belly.

“Maybe not, but I still could use some skates.”

Yohana sat down, a faint smile on her face. She remembered fondly pupsitting Serena years ago. They had remained friends and were like sisters in many ways because they were both only children and daughters of pack leaders.

The biggest difference between them, other than height, was that Serena had no interest in following her father as pack leader. She was happy being the Alpha female allowing her Alpha Male True Mate, Damien, to lead their burgeoning family. Leading the Whitewolf pack was all Yohana had ever wanted. She felt a deep commitment to guide and serve the members of her pack so they could all prosper. She couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

“You aren’t here for lunch, Yo.”

“How do you know?”

“Because you made an appointment with me. Are you finally going to let me put your profile together to help you hunt for a Mate?”

“I don’t want to hunt for a Mate. I need to find one.” Yo couldn’t stay in the chair any longer, so she rose to pace again.

Serena frowned. “Find one?” She pulled a pad of paper to her. “Okay, what’s going on and what do you want in a Mate?”

“My pack is what’s going on. They want a packleader with a stable Mate and me pregnant as soon as possible.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, they’ve been rumbling about my cousin, Dan, taking over if I can’t do what’s necessary. I’m looking for a male wolf who won’t fight me for my pack.”

“Oh, Yo, I’m sorry.” Serena started to get up but Yohana waved her back.

If someone hugged her, she’d break down and start crying. Yo just didn’t have time to let her emotions overwhelm her right now. “I know. I appreciate your concern.”

“You want a Beta then?” Serena blinked tears from her eyes starting to type into her computer database.

“I do, but every pack member I’ve asked about this doesn’t. They want me Mated to an Alpha.” Serena’s raised her gaze and her mouth dropped open, prompting a wry laugh from Yohana. “Yes, I know. Finding an Alpha not interested in running a pack is as likely as finding a needle in a haystack, but find him we must. I want a male who has a commitment elsewhere.”

“Elsewhere?”

“I don’t mean another female.” Yo shuddered. “Worried or not, the pack would never accept a male with another relationship. I mean an obsession with his career or a hobby. Something other than my pack.”

“You aren’t making this easy.”

“Life is hard. Even harder than finding a Mate obsessed with something other than dominating a pack, I want a male who is tall enough to look me in the eyes, not the tits. I’m 6’ tall, so I don’t want a short wolf. I’ve known some wonderful males who are short, but it won’t work for me to take one as a Mate. The Whitewolf pack will expect my Mate to be able to act as my enforcer if the need arises.”

“Some short males are extremely muscular and physical.”

“True. But when I date males who aren’t as tall as me, I seem to pick the ones who feel they need to prove something. I don’t choose well, which is why I’m here. I want a male with interests elsewhere and nothing to prove to anybody.”

“Every stipulation you add limits the pool.”

“I know, but I need to be Mated soon.”

“Why?”

“I’ll go into heat Friday or Saturday, and I want to get pregnant right away. It will ease the pressure if they know there is a new generation on the way.”

Serena shook her head. “Okay. What else? Let’s get everything out on the table.”

Yohana sighed as she paused by the window, crossing her arms over her ample bosom. Some females with her height looked like movie stars or fashion models, but Yo was built more along the lines of a linebacker. She was definitely her sire’s daughter. She glanced down, sighing. Correction, her sire’s daughter with her mother’s udders.

“He’s got to be able to Mate me. If I leave him cold, he won’t be able to impregnate me.” Yohana glanced at Serena, a wry smile on her face. “I know I’m no beauty queen. My features are too strong to be considered pretty or beautiful, and I’m not built like a model. Don’t match me up with a male who wants a gorgeous female to grace his bed.”

“Someone who’ll lie back and think of Whitewolf?” Serena teased.

“Something like that. In fact, if he wants a limited Mating, I’d accept it. My pack will be happy if I make the effort and produce a pup. Once those criteria are complete, any male I Mate can be free.”

“Yo, you are a good person and you deserve more than that.”

“Maybe, but not now. Later.”

“What about a True Mate?”

“Lord, no! I’m not looking for a True Mate. My attention will be on the pack and my pup. I’m not going to have time for some male who wants to bond and share with me,” she shivered.

“I used to think it would be awful, but I was wrong. You might be wrong too.”

“Unlikely. Right now I don’t have time to hold out for the ideal. I need Mr. Right-Now. Not Mr. Right.”

“I’ll see if I can find him for you. Any clan preferences?”

“Whitewolf or Goldwolf…Redwolf at the outside since a Redwolf pack lives near us too,” she frowned. “Our entire pack is fair. It would disturb them to have a dark haired heir. Still, I’ll take what I can get.”

“Noted. Do you want your Mate to live in Whitewolf or here in the city?”

“He can maintain an apartment here in Denver if needed, and just come home at the weekend after he’s planted a pup.”

Serena opened her mouth to say something more, she stopped and slowly nodded.

Yohana could tell her friend disapproved but was restraining herself because of the situation. She walked over to Serena, setting a hand on her wrist. “Serena, I know this is unpleasant, but I don’t have any options right now. My pack needs this from me.”

“They expect a horrible sacrifice and it isn’t fair.”

“Being a pack leader demands sacrifices, and since when has life been fair?” Yohana sat down in the chair.

Serena shook her head, finally lifting her blazing green eyes. “You are a special female and you should be appreciated, not pressured.”

Yo smiled sadly. “Is that what you think they’re doing?”

“Yes.”

“You are judging them by your view of your own father, Drew. But, Serena, all they really want is stability and safety. If having a pup will give them that, I can’t deny them.”

Serena shook her head.

“I need them to relax so I can… With Father so recently gone…”  Her throat closed and she covered her eyes, fighting tears. She shook her head looking up at her friend. “Find me a Mate. Please.”

In a little over a week I’m headed to New York City for a writer’s workshop. I write erotic romance and when Dr. Charley Ferrer announced she was going to present a BDSM for Writers workshop, based on her book – I was all over it. I’m so excited to meet Dr. Charley and to get an opportunity to research BDSM for my writing. Dr. Charley is a Clinical Sexologist & Therapist and a radio talk show host too.

I’ve never been to New York before. I’m planning to go out a day early and stay an extra day to do even more research. There’s a Museum of Sex in New York. Did you know that? I didn’t until I watched an episode of Millionaire Matchmaker and one guy took a lady there for a date. I MUST see this museum. Not only does it sound like a lot of fun, but it’s research. Perfect. Grin…

I’ll be staying at a hotel in midtown just blocks from Central Park. Central Park will be gorgeous and it should be within walking distance of my hotel. There are so many things I want to see and do while I’m in New York. Of course, one of the coolest parts of the workshop will be opportunities to visit leather shops and other adult sorts of stores. We’re even scheduled to visit a BDSM club with our most excellent instructor.

But I plan to take in some “tourist” sites while I’m there too, like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. I’m feeling overwhelmed by all the possibilities though. I should take a trip on the subway. Experience a cab ride and maybe even a horse drawn carriage ride around Central Park. Are there any “research” sites or tourist places I should make sure to visit? I’m looking for suggestions. If you were headed for New York City, where would you want to go?

Anyone who met Damien Blackwolf would know he’s an alpha wolf, even if they didn’t know that he was a shapeshifter. He’s the kind of male who looks like a hunter even in an Italian suit, which is what he wears most of the time. I had fun writing about a male shapeshifter who’s part metrosexual, and mostly alpha wolf. Hot and intense. That’s what attracts Serena Goldwolf to him, too. But as attracted as she is, she’s not ready to meet her True Mate. She can’t imagine giving up her autonomy to gain her True Mate but Damien has other plans.

Blurb:

Alpha female Serena Goldwolf has spent a lifetime vowing never to be a submissive mate to any Alpha male. But all it takes is one surprisingly sexual meeting with Damien Blackwolf, a dissatisfied client of her shapeshifter dating site Predator-Match.com, and she’s down on all fours, wanting to be mounted by the hottest male on two legs—or four—whom she’s ever met.

Damien Blackwolf doesn’t understand why the voluptuous Serena won’t admit they’re True Mates. To convince her, he decides to bring out her baser desires by dragging her off to someplace private to get to know her…intimately. But how can he convince her of their destiny when she runs away from him? Guess he’ll just have to hunt her down and persuade her.

In a passionate battle of wills, there most definitely can be two winners.

Publisher’s Note: Previously published elsewhere but has been revised and expanded for Ellora’s Cave.

By reading any further, you are stating that you are at least 18 years of age. If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary to exit this site.

An Excerpt From: ALPHA VS. ALPHA

Copyright © FRANCESCA HAWLEY, 2011

All Rights Reserved, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.

Chapter One

“What the hell kind of outfit is this?”

Serena Goldwolf’s head shot up at the irate shout coming from the outer office of her shapeshifter matchmaking business, Predator-Match.com. She brushed her bangs off her forehead with a sigh. Damn it, couldn’t anyone in this office take care of stuff without her intervention?

The male voice continued to roar out there, and she knew her secretary wouldn’t be able to handle him because Kara was such an omega even omega males dominated her. Serena sighed again, saved her database update and headed out to confront the wolf male jerk. Serena took in the male outrage with a shake of her head. Asshole. He shook his head as if he’d heard her. Yeah right. She wished.

“I’m sorry, sir. Really.” Kara huddled in her chair, her head dipped and her eyes on her desktop. Submission in her posture and her voice.

“You people set me up with some stalker bitch! I want to talk to one of the owners, now.” A tall black-haired man with dark-brown eyes leaned on the desk, his large hands flat on the wood.

Serena took him in, her body responding immediately. Damn it. She didn’t need this shit, but she couldn’t take her eyes off him. He wore a very expensive, black Italian suit, Italian black leather loafers, a crisp white shirt and red tie. The ultimate in power wear for the busy executive. And he was so good-looking he resembled an escapee from Fashion Week. She shook her head to remind herself that he wasn’t all that…he was just a wolf like any other.

Heads hung out of office doors, watching the confrontation with enjoyment, yet no one came to Kara’s rescue. Probably glad to be out of firing range themselves…that’s what she got for hiring betas. The females all wanted him and the males would jump to follow his orders.

Female musk clogged the air. Especially from Lea Redcat, one of her business partners. Predator-Match.com was damn successful. To the outside world, their site looked like a zoo animal match service. To the shapeshifter community, it was a way to find a lover or a life partner. Since Lea was allowing this thing to escalate, it looked like Serena to the rescue. Again.

“I’m really sorry, sir. We do our best to match our clients up with the best fit for them.” Kara cringed lower behind her desk and wouldn’t meet the man’s eyes. Typical omega posture. The male frowned.

“Are you saying you think I deserve a psycho bitch as my Mate?” His quiet voice seemed to scare Kara more than his shouting had because she backed up. It wouldn’t be long before she crawled under her desk.

“No s-s-sir,” Kara stammered.

Damn that bastard. He was done scaring Kara. Unable to suppress her temper, Serena growled. His gaze flashed to her and she felt it all the way to her womb. Damn but he was hot. Life was just not fair.

She challenged him—head up, shoulders back—inspecting him from top to bottom and allowing her gaze to linger, as if she were checking for fleas. His shoulders were broad and filled his Italian suit to perfection. His broad chest narrowed to athletic hips, and she would bet money that his belly sported a six-pack, and not of the beer variety. He had the kind of face that artists wanted to sculpt and women wanted to sit on. His eyes were the piece de resistance—large, dark brown and thick-lashed beneath perfectly arched brows.

In short, he was a god—or a male model. This was the kind of male who never looked twice at Serena because she wasn’t tall and thin, or tiny and doll-like. She had yet to meet a male wolf who wanted a woman with curves, but this kind of wolf was the worst. These wolves wanted trophy bitches.

“Who are you?” His voice cut the air like a knife.

She lifted her chin when the bastard stared her down. How dare he try to intimidate her? She was an alpha female, damn it!

“I’m Serena Goldwolf and one of the co-owners of Predator-Match.com. Who are you?” No way would she back down from this one. The man needed to be taken down a peg.

He scowled at her and his eyes narrowed at her temerity in confronting him. The bastard was an Alpha from the tips of his perfect black hair to the bottom of his highly polished Italian loafers.

“Damien Blackwolf. A fucking unhappy customer.”

He straightened to face off against her, obviously waiting for his pronouncement to have some effect. He said it as if she were supposed to curtsey to him. Not only was he an alpha, but a Blackwolf Alpha. An alpha was a dominant male, but an Alpha was the heir of a clan, or the leader of one. This male had or definitely would found his own clan group one day.

“What seems to be your problem?”

On the whole, Serena was not fond of Blackwolf males—they were too arrogant by half, and this one seemed to think he was God’s gift. She had to admit he was a beautiful specimen who made her wet just to look at him, but she wasn’t about to admit that to him.

He smiled the smile of the male who knew a female was reacting to him. Shit. Her scent must be broadcasting. He licked his perfect full lips. Males were not supposed to have lips like that. Double shit.

“Your much-acclaimed psychology matching service paired me with the psycho bitch from hell!”

“Well, considering your obnoxious attitude with my secretary, it would seem our ‘much-acclaimed psychological matching service’ did just dandy,” Serena countered with a smile.

He growled and took a step toward her. She tensed but stayed where she was. The worst thing to do when a predator challenged was cringe or run, and this man was definitely a predator. If the bastard thought she was that easily intimated, he was in for a rude awakening.

She raised her brow and crossed her arms over her chest. He paused, dumbfounded, looking as perplexed as a pup trying to figure out why he tripped over his tail. Damn it, that made him adorable. Serena shook her head in disgust at herself. Alpha males were not adorable. They were royal pains, emphasis on both royal and pain.

She might be an alpha female, but she was damned if she was going to take an Alpha male like him as her Mate. When she did date, she dated betas because they were easier to manage. Serena blinked. Why was she using the permanent possessive with this one? A Mate was a partner for life, and a mate was good for a tumble. This male didn’t come close to fulfilling her needs for either role.

“Miss Goldwolf…”

“Ms.”

“What?”

“Ms. Goldwolf. I’m not some untried adolescent, Mr. Blackwolf, and I would appreciate if you would acknowledge it.”

“Ms. Goldwolf…” His sarcastic voice was deep and made her nipples harden. She pretended it didn’t affect her, but she knew he realized it did. Why did he show up here today? She didn’t need the aggravation.

“Yes?”

He glared down at her. “This is a business, Ms. Goldwolf, and I am a very dissatisfied customer. I have friends who I’ve told about this company who could very easily withdraw their business at my request. I suggest you moderate your tone.”

That was it. Serena saw red. She stalked over to him and poked him in the chest with her finger while she scowled up into his black eyes.

“Listen to me, you arrogant wolf! You come in here, guns blazing, and abuse my secretary then threaten me. Pull your business if you want. Tell your friends to take a hike too. I don’t give a flying fuck! I will not be treated this way by you or anyone!”

Serena felt as if she were outside herself, and she watched herself in horror. She was never like this, even when she was fully in heat. Oh, she snarled and clawed at males, but she’d never attacked anyone before. She sure wanted to attack this one though. He smiled grimly, and only then did Serena realize his last speech had been a deliberate taunt. Damn it to hell. Damn him to hell…

He grabbed her waist and lifted her easily. He took two strides to the nearest wall, pushing her against it while wrapping her thighs around his hips. He pressed his erection against her wet pussy. She moaned and her head dropped back. She heard him snarl and realized she’d closed her eyes—when she opened them she saw triumph in his.

“Oh fuck.”

ARE YOU AFRAID OF THE DARK?

I’ve always loved all things that go bump in the night. Since I was a kid I believed in vampires and zombies and werewolves and even though I used to sleep with the covers over my head and a light on, I continued to adore them, watching movies and television shows. Some of my first stories were about them. Then I took some time as real life came into the picture and while I’ve penned an entire vampire series, I’ve held them back. Vampires and creatures seem to be waning in popularity.

As an erotic writer I sat back and thought about combining the concept of a creature and passion  – erotic writing isn’t just about sex but about the stories and the angst people share around the acts of passion. So… since Halloween was coming up I re-vamped (no pun intended) some thoughts and stories I had burning in the back of my mind and a few new ones were born with a twist. My m/m stories also seem to be doing much better than any others so… what if?

I’m giving you a taste today of a piece coming out from Naughty Nights Press called Raging Shadows. What if you had two male vampire lovers and one was cursed by the only method known to kill their kind unless they met a human woman who would complete the third and give her life to them of her own free will? Throw in the fact the curse has a bit of a ghostly appeal, BDSM, a Ouija Board and some very creative sex and you have one hot piece. Don’t worry, this snippet is completely “G” rated but you’ll get the idea.

Excerpt: Over 18 Only

RAGING SHADOWS

“Ouija Board and a dare, huh? Couldn’t think of something more original?” Savannah laughed as she eyed her three best friends. As a violent storm raged outside pelting the windows with torrents of rain, they were nestled in her house staring down at a board game, margaritas in hand.

“And what, you have a hot date tonight? We know better girl.”

Savannah eyed Tina and grinned. “I might not have a man in my bed but I have a saucy selection of vibrators. What about you, Renee?” She glanced at the

buxom blond and knew Renee had no trouble getting dates. Men fawned all over her day and night. Something Savannah could only dream about.

“Let’s just say I keep my UPS man guessing,” Renee licked salt off the rim of her glass in a zigzag pattern.

“Uh-huh. She’s a lying bitch!”

“Ashley! Such language from a proper southern girl,” Tina admonished.

Savannah shook her head as the firecracker red head jerked to her feet, sloshing her drink in the process. “Careful or we’re going to have to cut you off.” The four wicked sisters, as they liked to call themselves, had been best friends for almost ten years seeing each other through jerk-off men and layoffs and somehow their every other Friday night playtime held them together.

“You just try and cut me off and you won’t be allowed to play the game!” Ashley turned an evil glare in Savannah’s direction.

“Listen to her! You go girl!” Renee chuckled.

“Game? This?” Staring down at the Ouija board, Savannah sighed. She loved everything about the o

ccult and had been a study of the black arts for years, something she’d only told Tina but then again Savannah’s best friend only heard the vanilla version. The rest was too wild and wooly for anyone to understand. Tarot cards and haunted houses turned her the hell on. Giggling at the thought, she sipped her drink and longed for a tall vampire who’d steal her heart and drag her into eternity.

“Yeah, this. Geez! Girl, you need to get laid. You’re grumpy.” Tina raised her glass as she chuckled. “You’re got that day dreamy look in your eyes too, Savannah. We better snag you a hunk who’ll fuck you for days or we’re going to lose you to your fantasies.”

“Fantasies? Don’t you start!” Savannah hissed but damn if it wasn’t the truth. Her last boyfriend was a droll homebody who never wanted to go out. Ever. And their last raucous event together had been well over eighteen months ago. Raucous? Hell, the man would barely eat her pussy let alone anything else kinky. If her friends really learned just how kinky her desires were that kept her awake all night long they’d have her committed. Licking her lips, she closed her eyes and sighed.

“Say we’re right or face our wrath,” Renee said before tipping back her drink.

“You heard the lady!” Tina demanded.

“Fine. I’ll admit it. I want nothing else than to lose myself to at least one man if not three or four, succumbing to their most wicked needs. Domination. Whipping. Pain and pleasure. I want them to fill me and fuck me, lick and bite while I writhe, begging for more. I hunger for a taste of everything that reeks of kink, mystery and danger.” Panting, Savannah realized her friends were quiet. Dead quiet. Opening her eyes slowly, she grinned. “What’s wrong with that?”

“Nothing, if you’re a member of the undead,” Ashley breathed.

“Hey. I think it’s kinda sexy,” Tina cooed. “The game is perfect and who knows what naughty spirit we’ll snag.”

“Naughty spirit? Uh-huh. So tell me the rules and I’ll tell you if I want to play along. I know this is all your doing, Tina so out with it.” Lifting her glass, Savannah toasted the group before taking a sip, relishing in the tequila burn.

Tina pressed her fingers over the plastic triangular piece of the game, moving it back and forth across several letters. “You guys ever hear of Raging Shadows?”

“You mean only the hottest secret club in town?” Ashley purred as she changed music.

“Uh-huh. They have an open invitation for a sizzling Halloween party. From what I understand, anything goes.” Tina said as she gave Savannah an evil grin.

“Wait a minute. They’re not only exclusive given what I’ve heard about certain activities they allow and condone but the owner is very particular. The BDSM they cater to is supposedly brutal.” Savannah knew about the club and her interest was piqued more by the owner than the club itself. Constantine Avion was considered sultry and dangerous to those that knew him. An aura of intrigue surrounded the man including rumors he was a warlock specializing in the torture of men and women hiding behind a veil of magic. In truth, some called him a monster. He was even rumored to hold immortality in his hands.

Can you understand why she’s intrigued?  I hope you’ve enjoyed – releasing on October 30th.

Tell me what you’re afraid of! Leave a comment for a chance to win an e-copy of RAGING SHADOWS!

Kisses   xxx
Cassandre

FIND ME AT:

http://www.cassandredayne.com
http://cassandredayne.wordpress.com/
Email:  cassandre@cassandredayne.com
http://twitter.com/bethanyhalle

NAUGHTY NIGHTS AUTHOR PAGE
http://naughtynightspress.com/authorpages/cassandredayne.php

Finding Motivation – And Giving Away an E-Book!

I want to thank the Authors by Moonlight for letting me guest blog today. It’s so exciting to be a part of the Romantic Treats Blog Blitz. I’m Randi Alexander and I write cowboy erotic romance. My first book, Chase and Seduction is available from The Wild Rose Press’ Cowboy Kink line.

I’m usually a fast writer, but sometimes when I write blogs I get a blob of sludge lodged between my brain and my fingers. I can usually come up with something really good twice a month for my spot on Wild and Wicked Cowboys, but now that fall is here, I’m feeling especially challenged (i.e., ready for a nap.)

When I feel blocked, I pull out all my muse enhancement tricks. I meditate, sitting quietly for five minutes just breathing, concentrating on watching the ocean in my mind. Sometimes I’ll watch an animated movie. Beauty and the Beast and Mulan are favorites for re-juicing my creativity.

It helps to read other writers’ work, too. I’ll download the most recent book from one of my blog sisters at Wild and Wicked (one of whom is the incomparable Sherry James!) But I don’t read the whole book right away – I read a scene from the middle of the book. It helps me think creatively rather than linearly, which spikes my muse into action.

Audio books are great, too. Did you know that many libraries offer audio books to check out via download? I slide them onto my iPod, and take a long walk. The combination of visual and audio stimulation is revitalizing. Then, if nothing else works, I Google pictures of cowboys, country western stars, and steamy scenes of couples for use in my video trailers. For some reason, cowboys get me going again ;-})

In Chase and Seduction, the heroine, Reno, is a writer, but she never seems to encounter writers’ block. Must be the influence of that sexy cowboy, Chase! I’m excited to share with you the blurb for my book, as well as a romantic excerpt.

Country music superstar/actor Chase Tanner has yet to be denied anything–and he’s never wanted anything or anyone more than gorgeous screenplay writer Reno Linden. So when the film they are working on is finally finished, Chase decides to turn up the volume on seducing Reno.

Reno Linden lived a quiet, rural life until she was thrust into the Hollywood scene when her book was adapted to film. Chase Tanner is larger than life, sinfully sexy and hell-bent on getting her into bed. Skittish after a failed wedding engagement, Reno risks the plunge into Chase’s arms, and is surprised that her good girl self can keep up with bad boy Chase.

Though Chase returns to his cowboy roots often, and Reno cherishes the time spent with him on his ranch, the two find their careers pulling them in different directions. Will their attraction survive the glitz and stress of fame?

EXCERPT: Over 18 only

Chase played for an hour and a half. A few parents stood in the back of the room, the mobile kids danced, the ones in wheelchairs wiggled and clapped, and everyone sang along. A few called out their favorite songs and Chase was hard-pressed to remember the words to some of them, but he’d gotten good at making them up.

Reno sat smack in the middle of the kids on a tiny chair, her knees nearly up to her chin. But she sang along, clapped, and talked with the children. His heart filled with emotion each time he looked at her.

Then a nurse popped her head into the room. “Bedtime, everyone. Say thank you to Mr. Tanner, and start heading back to your rooms.”

“Aw!”

“Already?”

Chase stood and set his guitar in its case. “I’ll be back in a few days.”

One little girl with IV lines into her stomach started crying, and her mother picked her up and brought her to Chase. She asked, “Can she give you a hug?”

His throat choked shut, and all he could do was nod.

“Cassie, thank Mr. Tanner for singing for you.”

Cassie released her mother’s neck and grabbed a hold of his. Her little body felt like a warm, soap-scented bird in his arms. “Tank you for singing.” Then she kissed him full on the mouth.

A sweet-hot burn grew behind his eyes, and he whispered, “You’re welcome, Cassie.”

She stared at him, her tiny arms were light as feathers against his neck. She whispered, “I love you.”

“I…love you, too.” Chase blinked back a swell of tears as he handed her to her mother. They walked away, then he caught Reno’s gaze.

Tears ran from her eyes down her cheeks.

He watched her, unmoving, unable to breathe for fear the tears would leak from his eyes. In his side vision, he saw the princess castle, the toy trucks, and the pretend kitchen. He’d love to have a kid. Maybe two. A boy and a girl. When he imagined his own little girl, she looked a lot like Reno.

If you enjoy cowboy romances, check out my vampire cowboy short story This Cowboy Bites. It’s a third-round finalist in the All Romance eBook Just One Bite Contest. The story brings vampire cowboy Kade Rourke to the rescue of Emma O’Connor. The sexy thank-you she offers him heats up the cool, Texas night. If you enjoy the story, I’d love to have your vote!

My romantic treat is an e-book for one lucky commenter. Leave a message telling us how you motivate yourself when you just feel like doing nothing. I’ll choose a winner tomorrow morning and post a comment with the winner’s name.

Good luck, and thank you for coming by to read my blog!

Randi

RandiAlexander.com
WildAndWickedCowboysBlog
Buy Chase and Seduction at The Wild Rose Press Wilder Roses

I guess I’m in an inquisitive mood today. Earlier this month, my contemporary erotic romance, Never a Princess, Always a Frog was released from Lyrical Press, Inc. But I’ll get to that later.

My question for you today is: Do you prefer stand-alone books or books in a series?

When it comes to romance, I like both. I’ll often choose an author’s stand alone book to start, just in case I don’t click with their writing (I’m very picky when it comes to reading). A great story can be told either way. In regards to series, I like those set in the same world, but not involving the same main characters. I want to read about a new romance blossoming each time. Fortunately for me, this is fairly common in the romance world.

As a writer, I’m petrified of being confined to one series. I’ve seen authors who only write one thing, and when they try to introduce something different, they don’t see the sales to favor their new venture. Old readers turn away. I’ve got so many ideas crammed in this brain of mine, I don’t want to find myself in a similar situation. I want to be free to write them all… or at least the ones which call to me.

So thus far, the books I’ve released are stand-alones. I don’t have any designs on expanding them with a connecting story at this time. Some have side characters I might get around to soon enough, but I tied up all loose ends in the book, enough to make it complete without adding another romance. Anything more would just be gravy on the side, provided I feel an enthusiasm from my readers for X character’s story. I’ve already gotten that response for one of the books (for now, which one is a secret) and I’m slowly working on shaping up a connecting story. Otherwise, I feel content in the story as it is.

Which brings me to Never a Princess, Always a Frog. This is the first book in a series, which I’m calling the Modern Fairytale series. Each book has elements of a famous fairytale insinuated on a modern story. For instance, the sequel to Never a Princess, featuring the heroine’s BBW cousin, is called Beauty in his Bed.

For these books, I’m very excited, and have to control the amount of secondary characters I introduce into the story. I’ve already decided on three books for sure. After that, I’m depending on enthusiasm to let me know whether or not I should continue. I have ideas sketched for another three books, another three different fairy tales, after the original three. By the time the third releases, I’ll no doubt have decided whether or not to write those additional three ideas.

Which leads me back to my question. As a reader, do you like series? Do you prefer reading them? Personally, if a writer has a huge list of books in the series, I may or may not like that. I have a lot of catching up to do, but what if one in the middle intrigues me more than the first? I’m the kind of person who likes to read things in a linear way whenever possible. If I enjoy that first, I’m overjoyed with the prospect of many more… but too many begs the question of overuse. Too many times, I’ve seen weakened, rehashed plots when you get to the umpteenth book in a series. I’m afraid of being disappointed in that respect, too. That’s also why I’m being so cautious in expanding this series. It has the potential to extend far beyond three or even six books… but I want to make sure I’m not detracting from the books which came before.

So, give me your opinion! Series or stand-alone?

And since I mentioned it so many times, here is the cover and blurb for Never a Princess, Always a Frog.

Colleen Somers has never felt wanted by a man, not in the all-consuming way she reads in books. So for one night she decides to be daring — but this wasn’t quite what she had in mind. Dressed in nothing but green paint, she attends a wild Halloween party and hopes to have the time of her life.

The very moment Dan sees her walk into the room, he’s enthralled. Suddenly, the five years since his wife’s death mean nothing. For the first time in a long time, he feels alive — and he knows he can’t let Colleen walk out of his life.

Read more about the book at http://bit.ly/NeverAPrincess.

L. K. Below

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Truthfully, I could use this post to talk about my own books. In the name of promotion, I probably should. But I finally have a gap in releases, and I’m happy just to talk about something else. (If you’re a published author, you know exactly what I mean. Promoting, even when done subtly and tying your book into posts about the writing craft or research, can be exhausting). So today, let’s forget I’ve got 4 erotic romances out right now. I want to talk about books, and not my own.

As an author, I unfortunately find myself with way too much to do. Perhaps a more apt term, instead of simply author, might be “workaholic writer”. Because honestly, I hardly ever give myself a break. I immensely enjoy what I do, so most days I don’t even notice the passing of time. But I’m equal parts a reader as a writer. When I’m caught up in a project (or three) I tend to add books to my ever-growing TBR pile instead of reading through the ones I have.

Looking through the books I haven’t read yet, I realize that each of them is a full-length novel. The reason is quite simple. I buy books regardless of what length they are. In fact, if I’m trying out a new author, I’m a thousand times more likely to buy a short story and get a feel for their writing with a cheaper book first. Unfortunately, I’m a terribly picky reader so I really need to try out something shorter/less expensive before I dive into an author’s backlist.

But my reason for enjoying shorter stories and novellas is twofold. See, I like to spend my every waking moment doing something productive. That does not, most days, include reading a book. But in the evenings or weekends, I like to put up my feet and relax a bit before bed. Or sometimes during the day, if something is particularly irritating or tiring. To loosen up, I turn to books.

I can’t afford to devour a full-length book when I should be writing one instead. So when I peer at my e-reader, I look to the shortest stories first. I want something 100 pages or less (usually much less). Something I can lose myself in, reach that satisfying ending, but still not feel like I’ve wasted the day away. Is it any wonder the books left sitting on my TBR pile are the ones which are too long to read in one evening?

Not that I don’t adore full-length novels. I do. I just don’t always have time to read them.

Perhaps that’s why I write more shorter works than I do longer ones. Yes, now I’m going to indulge that little voice screaming in my head to promote. If you’re interested at all in erotic romance and/or my writing, take a look at my these posts on my personal blog about Unveiling His Princess (erotic fairytale retelling)| Winter Worship (erotic short story)| Stone Cold Kiss (Irish-themed contemporary erotic romance) | Cinnamon and Spice (contemporary erotic romance). There. Now my promotion bone is appeased.

Are there any others out there who, like me, have more time for shorter works than longer ones?

L. K. Below

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