Bad Boys Gone Good

Rilzy Adams + Beach Reads + Adventures in Wilmington

June 9, 2023 by ReeseRyan

In Case You Missed It: Check out my chat with Rilzy Adams

I thoroughly enjoyed my recent chat with readers and Rilzy Adams—author of GO DEEP. It was such an honest, authentic conversation. She talked about how she got started writing, the challenges she’s faced, what she wishes she’d known at the outset of her career, and the issues she still struggles with as a creative.

I felt seen as an author dealing with many of the same struggles. Rilzy shared some invaluable insight, and we learned a lot from our conversation with her. Two of her comments stuck with me. The first was: “My worst day as an author is better than my best day as a lawyer.” That was a truly powerful statement, and it reminded me of how fortunate I am to do what I love. But my favorite quote of the evening was: “Discipline breeds motivation, not the other way around.” As an adult with ADHD who often struggles with productivity, I felt that DEEP.

Catch the replay of my chat with Rilzy Adams by clicking the graphic above or by clicking here.

Here’s What I’ve Been Doing

I spent a few days exploring Wilmington—the town Rett & Sin take a road trip to in RETURN TO HUMMINGBIRD WAY. We passed the Farmer’s Market where Sin encounters her ex, and we planned to go to The Copper Penny—where Rett and Sin had dinner followed by an unexpected kiss. But we didn’t make it there. I look forward to returning to Wilmington, NC soon. So I’ll be sure to visit both sites next time.

And while I didn’t make it to the Farmer’s Market or The Copper Penny, our hotel was on the boardwalk (pictured above), and we got to visit both Wrightsville and Kure Beach. We had a fantastic time, and it was a much-needed trip. I look forward to venturing there again soon.

What’s on your agenda for this summer? I’d love to hear about them in the comments below.

Get Return to Hummingbird Way now!

Here’s What I’ve Been Reading

While I was at the beach, I snuck in some reading. I’m reading Against the Currant a cozy mystery by Olivia Matthews. The protagonist’s family opens a bakery that specializes in making Caribbean treats like currant rolls, despite a rival baker threatening to shut them down because he considers this new bakery to be a threat to his business. The heroine is typically pretty low-key and doesn’t like confrontation. But she and her family have invested so much into this bakery, they can’t stand to see it fail. She stands up to the bully baker and they get into a very public argument. So when the cantankerous bakery owner—who had no shortage of enemies—ends up dead, guess who becomes the number one suspect in the awful man’s murder? Yep, you guessed it. Our mild-mannered protagonist must clear her name if she hopes to stay out of jail and protect her family’s investment in the new bakery.

If you enjoy cozy mysteries, fun family dynamics, and Caribbean culture, you’ll enjoy this story.

What are you reading right now? Tell me in the comments below.

Here’s What I’ve Been Watching

https://youtu.be/O0JG6V-12ac

I’ve been watching lots of fun shows lately. If you’ve ever heard me talk about what I love, you probably already know I love a good mystery show. But lately, I’ve been on kind of a spy kick, too. I just got finished watching two great shows: THE NIGHT AGENT on Netflix and THE CITADEL on Amazon Prime. If you’re into Mission Impossible or The Bourne Identity, you’ll love both of these shows. What shows are you watching? Tell me in the comments below.

New Releases & Book Deals from Author Friends

His enemy’s little sister is the only person with the power to undo him.

Nothing rattles stone-cold FBI Agent Kai Roman. Not chasing down ruthless criminals. Not the grief of losing his wife years ago. Not even inadvertently being caught in the middle of a bank robbery.

Except Camila Garza is right beside him when danger strikes, and suddenly he’s the only person who can protect the off-limits beauty. No matter how much her older brother hates him.

And no matter how much he secretly wants her.

Camila knows she should hate Roman. He’s made it clear he doesn’t like her—or possibly anyone—one bit. But when they have to go on the run to save their lives, she begins to see past his icy exterior to the man who would do anything to keep her safe.

Including risk it all.

****

The Agent is the sixth and last standalone in the Intelligence Unit series, set in the shared world of Remington. Full of edge-of-your-seat action and scorching romance, this adversary’s little sister, grumpy hero, lovers on the run from danger romance will have you swooning and sweating. No cheating, no cliffhangers, all hard-fought HEA.

Flirting With Danger is a FREE short, sexy prequel to the full-length standalone, The Agent. It contains loads of banter, scorching heat, and ends in a cliffhanger that leads to the novel. Detective Kai Roman first appears in The Guardian. This prequel contains spoilers to that title.

For maximum enjoyment, recommended reading order is

1. The Guardian 2. Flirting With Danger 3. The Agent

Flirting With Danger

She’s the only woman who can bring him to his knees.

FBI Agent Kai Roman’s nickname is The Iceman.
He doesn’t do emotions, and after losing his wife in a tragic accident five years ago, he definitely doesn’t do anything as dangerous as love.

Impulsively flirting with his enemy’s little sister? That he does.
He just didn’t expect Camila to flirt back—or to want her so much.

But when the radio silence after their one night of wanting
ends in the two of them being caught in a bank robbery,
Roman finds himself having to protect the one woman he can’t have…

🌊 🏖 Craving a beachy escape? Joanne Rock has a great deal on her 3-book box set of sexy romantic suspense titles– all in memorable beach settings from Puerto Rico to Coronado ☀. Pick up the To the Rescue collection for just 99¢ while the deal lasts ~ https://books2read.com/rescuebox

Have You Read RETURN TO HUMMINGBIRD WAY

Have you read Sin & Rett’s enemies-to-lovers, high-school hate-crushes turned co-wedding planners and renovation collaborators story, RETURN TO HUMMINGBIRD WAY? If not, click the graphic above or click here to grab your copy and take your next adventure to Holly Grove Island. If you have, I’d love it if you would leave your honest review at your favorite review site(s) like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, Google Play, or Goodreads. Your honest review helps more readers find the book. 😘

Until next time!

Reese Ryan. Colorful characters. Sinfully sweet romance.

Live Chat with Stephanie’s Book Reports

July 13, 2017 by ReeseRyan

Last night I chatted with Stephanie Phillips of Stephanie’s Book Reports Book Blog about just about everything under the sun. We talked about my Pleasure Cove series, my upcoming Harlequin Desire Bourbon Brothers series, the Secrets of the A-List serial project I was part of with eleven other Harlequin authors, some of the behind-the-scenes info on locations that are used in the series I’ve written, and so much more.

Topics for conversation included: the Biltmore Estate, Charleston, BBQ, Bourbon. the Louvre, the Cleveland Museum of Art, tulips, bourbon, Scotch, and Jack Daniels sauce. I’m not even kidding. And that isn’t even a complete list. LOL. Watching it is like hanging out with two fellow book lovers who talk about books, travel, liquor, and a host of other things.

Do you have a question that didn’t get answered? Feel free to post it below and I’m happy to answer it.

Check out Stephanie’s blog here or join her Facebook readers group here.

Cupid, Psyche and…Mom #MWTease #Bad Boys Gone Good

December 17, 2014 by ReeseRyan

Happy Hump Day, everyone! It’s time to take a peek behind the covers of books and works in progress of several authors during the Mid Week Tease, hosted by Sandra Bunino.

Raine surprised Melanie by coming to visit her for the weekend. She is thrilled to let him into her home and bed, but not so willing to let him into her family. Her mother , Ellie Gordon, would like nothing more than to see her married. The last thing Mel wants to do is give her a prospect on which to focus. However, when Melanie takes Raine to one of her favorite places in town, the Cleveland Museum of Art, she runs into the last person on earth she wants Raine to meet.

<=====Excerpt from Making the First Move=====>

He holds me closer, our cheeks flushed as we stand in front of Jacques Louis David’s enormous painting of Cupid and Psyche lying naked in an elaborate bed, basking in the afterglow of their lovemaking.

Raine kisses the side of my face and whispers in my ear, “I know how that guy feels.”

Cupid and Psyche by Jacques-Louis David at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Photo courtesy of rocor. — Cupid and Psyche by Jacques-Louis David at the Cleveland Museum of Art

Before I can tell him I know how Psyche feels, too, I’m interrupted by a familiar voice.

“Melanie!”

My spine stiffens. There are times when my mother’s voice echoes in my head. It stopped me from going to third base on several occasions in high school. But it’s never quite this vivid.

“Melanie!”

Raine and I both stop to look at the woman quickly approaching.

It’s my mother!

Mimi tries to keep up, laden with her huge purse and the boys’ jackets. Mickey and Dusty are nowhere in sight.

“Mom? Mimi? What are you doing here?”

“We actually came to see the art.” Mom grins and winks at me as she leans in to give me a hug. “Who’s your handsome friend?”

I take a deep breath. I’m not prepared for this, introducing Raine to my mother. Should I call him my boyfriend? “Mom, I’d like you to meet Raine Mason. He’s…a friend of mine.” I give him a look that begs forgiveness in advance for anything inappropriate my mother might say. “Raine, this is my mother, Ellie Gordon.”

She rakes her fingers through her hair and stands a bit straighter.

“Mrs. Gordon, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you. I’ve heard a lot about your magnificent cooking.” He extends his hand.

A wide grin spreads across her face. She slips her hand into his. “Well, it’s certainly a pleasure to meet you, Raine. Though I’m at a disadvantage. You’re apparently my daughter’s best-kept secret. She hasn’t breathed a word to us about you.”

Mom glances back at Mimi. My sister looks as guilty now as she did when she was seven and she’d denied stealing my mother’s makeup with pink-stained lips and clown-red cheeks.

“Well, she hasn’t breathed a word to me, at least,” Mom continues. “I have no idea why she’d be hiding such a handsome, polite young man from her mother.” She raises an eyebrow at me.

I rub my forehead, wishing it were a genie lamp that would grant my wish to have never left the condo this morning. “I haven’t been hiding him, Mom. Raine lives in San Francisco.”

Her smile widens. “You came here, all the way from San Francisco, to see my Melanie? You two sound like more than just friends.” She pokes me in the side with her elbow.

I cough. Mimi stares, wide-eyed.

“We are more than just friends,” Raine says sheepishly. He seems to feel the need to explain to my mother why he was draped all over me a moment ago. “I’ve been trying my best to convince your beautiful daughter to be my girlfriend.”

“My daughter is a little gun-shy and a bit of a workaholic. But keep working on her.” She speaks to him in a loud whisper behind her open hand, as if only he can hear her.

“Mom!” Mimi says sharply.

Raine is clearly amused.

“Raine, this is my sister, Michele.”

Mimi shifts her purse and the boys’ coats to her left arm and extends her right hand to him. He shakes her hand.

“Good to meet you.” He smiles. “Melanie’s told me so much about you and your boys.”

She smiles approvingly. “Nice to meet you, too.”

“How long will you be in town, Raine?” I can see the plot brewing in my mother’s head.

“Just for the weekend. I flew in on Thursday evening to surprise Melanie. I leave Monday morning.”

“Melanie, you should’ve brought Raine over to the house. I could’ve kept him company on Friday while you were at work, shown him around town.”

“Maybe next time I’m in town.” He beams at her.

Mom smiles then elbows me again. “What a darling!” She looks at me as if I’ve just won the lottery. “Raine, you have to join us for dinner tomorrow. You were going to bring him to dinner, weren’t you?” My mother looks at me accusingly.

I clear my throat. “Actually, I was thinking…since Raine’s only here for a few days…”

“Look, I don’t blame you for wanting to spend the weekend shut in with this one.” She jerks her thumb toward Raine and bares her teeth at him in a flirtatious grin I’ve never seen my mother use before and hope never to see again. “But you’ve gotta come up for air sometime and you two have to eat. I’m guessing there’s only an assortment of condiments in your refrigerator.”

My cheeks flush. My head throbs. I bury my forehead in my hand.

Raine can’t hold back anymore. His entire body convulses in a raspy chuckle as he drapes an arm around me. “I’d love to come to dinner.” Raine flashes that irresistible grin at my mother and I’m pretty sure I see her swoon. “But I know Melanie has a lot planned for me this weekend.” Mom looks at me as if to say, “I’ll bet she does” and it seriously makes me throw up in my mouth a little. “How about if we promise to get back to you with an answer by the end of the day?”

“Fabulous!” Mom can barely contain her excitement at the possibility. She squeezes Raine’s hand and kisses me on the cheek. I breathe a sigh of relief, thankful for the reprieve.

“Are you two just getting here?” Mimi asks. She blushes when she finally notices we’re standing in front of Cupid and Psyche.

“We’ve been here for a while, exploring the original building. We’re about to make our way to the new galleries.” I try to regain my composure. “What about you guys?”

“I took your advice and enrolled Mickey and Dusty in the art classes here. We decided to stay and explore the museum while they’re in class, maybe grab lunch at the café.”

“Lunch! That’s an excellent idea.” My mother claps her hands together. “Why don’t we all go for lunch at the café? That’ll give us a chance to get to know each other.”

I glance at Raine. He seems about as eager as my mother does. “Fine,” I say. “We’ll do lunch.”

“Great,” Mom says, “that’ll give me plenty of time to talk you two into coming to dinner.”

Before I can object, Raine has already extended his free arm to my mother. “I’m starving, Mrs. Gordon. Lead the way.”

Mom grabs Raine’s elbow. “Call me Ellie,” she drawls like a Southern belle, which she is not. She was born, raised and has always lived in the Midwest.

“Yes, ma’am, Ellie.” Raine flashes that damn adorable grin.

I want to protest, to tell her he’s mine. I want to spend the weekend with him. Alone. But there’s no use fighting it. All I can do is prepare myself for an hour of uncomfortable questions. Questions I can’t answer.

<=====END OF EXCERPT=====>

That Ellie is a pistol. She is the caring, wise, no-nonsense matriarch of the Gordon Family, and I had a blast writing her character in both Making the First Move and Love Me Not. Okay, now it’s time to dive into some of the tasty treats prepared for you by my fellow teasers. Please visit them at the links below.

Happy Teasing!

Cupid and Psyche by Jacques-Louis David at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Photo courtesy of rocor.

Surprise Visits and Peach Bath Towels #MWTease #BadBoysGoneGood

December 10, 2014 by ReeseRyan

It’s that time of the week when we get to take a peek behind the covers of published books and works in progress of various authors, thanks to our fabulous host Sandra Bunino. The past few weeks, I’ve been sharing excerpts from my novel, Making the First Move.

Melanie Gordon and Raine Mason finally acted upon their feelings for each other. Unfortunately, it was after Melanie got a promotion that sends her back to her hometown, which is clear across the country. Initially, she resists the idea of a long-distance relationship. However, a few months after she returns home, Raine finally convinces her to give it a shot. Now, a few months into their long-distance relationship, he surprises her by visiting Cleveland in the dead of winter. In this scene, not long after his arrival, she’s slipped off to her bedroom to shower and tidy up when she hears a knock at her bedroom door.

<=====Excerpt from Making the First Move=====>

I crack the door with one hand, and brace the towel that is struggling to conceal my ample curves with the other.

“Yes?” I try to ignore the fact that his eyes are slowly scanning what he can see above and below the towel. “I’ll be just a few more minutes.”

“And what if I can’t wait a few more minutes?” His hand rests against the door.

“You can’t rush perfection.” I bat my eyes playfully.

“You’re already perfect.” He leans in to kiss me. “It doesn’t matter whether you’re in a ballroom gown, sweats or a peach bath towel.”

Raine gently traces the skin on my chest, just above the towel, which holds on precariously against the strain of my breasts. He trails his fingers up my neck and kisses me.

“Well, at least let me get—”

Raine cuts me off with a kiss.

He holds my face in his hands. “I know you want everything to be perfect, but all I want is you. Just the way you are. Right now.”

I smile, walking backward slowly until my calves hit the side of the bed. I take a deep breath and let the towel drop.

Raine takes the towel off my head and tosses it on the floor. Wet curls frame my face and cover my eyes. I pull his sweater over his head and unbutton his shirt. He peels off his undershirt and jeans.

We enjoy the warmth of each other’s bodies on this frigid winter night. Each kiss, each touch melts the ice from my heart and body just a little more.

His hands caress my hardened nipples. He nips at them gently with his teeth and circles them slowly with his tongue. Raine trails kisses along my neck, between my breasts, down my stomach. The steady thump of my heart rivals the intensity of the pulsing ache between my thighs.

He talks to me in a low, sensuous tone, demanding to know what I want, what I like, where I want him to touch me. Right now the answer is everywhere. I wish he were able to touch every throbbing, pulsing nerve at once.

He withholds the one thing I want so badly, until I ask for it. Beg for it. Then he peels himself off of me and slides off the briefs that have been trying unsuccessfully to restrain the bulge beneath them. He fumbles through his wallet, pulls out a condom and puts it on. Good. He’s prepared. Right now I’m in a euphoric daze, not thinking straight because all I want is…

Raine slowly guides himself inside of me. My breath is quick and shallow. I press my fingers into his back, pulling him closer. I wrap my legs around him, allowing him to thrust deeper inside. He glides in and out of me slowly, deliberately. All of my senses are heightened. I’m distinctly aware of the heat of his skin, his captivating scent, the hardness of his body in contrast to my soft curves, every sound we make.

Raine rocks us gently into moments of intense pleasure. Moments in which I say things I’ve never said to a man before. I beg him not to stop. I plead for more. I tell him how much I need him and where.

For a moment I forget how convoluted and impossible long-distance relationships can be. I forget all the objections I wrestle with whenever I consider the possibility of taking the relationship further.

My only thought is, I want this man in my bed every night. I want to start my day over coffee with him in the morning and discuss my day with him over dinner at night.

Afterward he holds me in his arms. My body fits perfectly against his like the curved, vintage set of salt and pepper shakers my mother owns. I wish we could stay like this forever.

I try to push all the disquieting thoughts from my mind. The ones that remind me Raine is only here for the weekend and come Monday night, I’ll be sleeping alone, wishing he were beside me.

<=====End of Excerpt=====>

Melanie is finding it difficult enough to navigate a long-distance relationship. Still unsure about where this will all lead, the last thing she wants to do is to get her mother’s hope up, by introducing Raine to her family. But next week we’ll discover that she has very little choice in the matter.

Now, it’s time for more teasing fun. Check out the teases at the links below. That’s where I’ll be. I can’t wait to see what everyone has in store.

Love in the Tub (and other dangerous sports) #MWTease

November 12, 2014 by ReeseRyan

It’s time for the Mid Week Tease, hosted by Sandra Bunino, where we get to sample excerpts from a variety of authors. Each week we look forward to the opportunity to share our work with you. But, let’s face it…authors are also voracious readers. So we’re just as eager to sample the yummy wares of our fellow authors.

Miles is in deep and Jamie’s feelings for him have been steadily growing. It’s been quite a journey since they first made love and her feelings for him scared her to death. After breaking her ‘no overnight stays’ rule for Miles, she’s become a staple at his place each weekend. When an old friend, who also has feelings for her, raises doubts about their relationship, it prompts Jamie to question why they never spend the night at her humble attic apartment. This is his first weekend staying at her place and Jamie finds a way to make it as memorable for Miles as he made her first overnight stay at his place.

<===Love Me Not Excerpt===>

“Mind if I take a shower?” Miles unzipped his bag, balanced on a trunk at the foot of her bed.

She’d already climbed into bed. “Just let me know if you need anything.”

He ducked into the bathroom and undressed, surveying the long, narrow clawfoot tub made of solid cast iron, painted black on the outside. He smiled. Of course. She wouldn’t have gone for a traditional color like white.

Miles yanked his sweater over his head and tossed it on top of the hamper. He slipped out of the rest of his clothing, turned on the water and stepped into the shower. While he was lathering himself the curtain was suddenly yanked back. He jumped.

Jamie laughed. “Who’d you think it was? Norman Bates?” She pulled her T-shirt and bra over her head, wriggled out of her shorts and stepped into the shower.

“I thought you were sleepy.” He smiled.

She wrapped her arms around his waist and kissed his back. “Suddenly I’m not so sleepy anymore.”

Their attempt to make love in a slippery clawfoot tub that was narrow and too far from any usable wall was comical at best. Sex was not only impossible, but dangerous. Still, she found another way to make their first shower together at her place memorable.

Jamie dropped to her knees in the tub, her hands gripping the base of his cock as she traced the tip with her tongue. He let out a little moan and braced his feet against the sides of the tub. He’d nearly fallen twice already; he didn’t want a concussion to interrupt what she was doing now.

She ran her tongue along the ridge underneath, and he murmured something even he couldn’t understand. When she took the tip into her warm mouth it sent a jolt of electricity up his spine. She swirled her tongue around the head of his shaft, as her hands slid up and down his growing length.

When she opened her mouth and took him in deeper, he let out a strangled moan. He tangled his fingers in her hair, careful not to force her head toward him, despite every muscle in his body screaming for him to do just that.

She was a fucking master at this. His body trembled, pleasure building, as she sucked him, her hand moving over the tight skin of his scrotum. Near his pinnacle, he tried to pull away, but her eyes met his and a wicked grin crinkled the corners of her eyes as she gripped his ass, pulling him in deeper.

He cursed, body trembling, cock convulsing, her eyes never leaving his.

He turned off the water and stepped out of the tub, lifting her in his arms and carrying her to the bed, both of their bodies soaking wet. He was desperate to be inside her, but first, he’d return the favor.

Laying her on the bed, he spread her legs. She’d been as turned on by her performance as he had. The lips of her sex were swollen with desire, her opening slick with her want. His dick twitched as he dove his tongue in, desperate for a taste of her.

“Mmm…” A low, purring sound vibrated through her chest as she dug her heels into the mattress.

He slid his tongue in deeper, savoring her addictive taste—both salty and sweet. Slipping two fingers inside her, he watched the intense satisfaction reflected on her gorgeous face as she gripped the bedding, her legs trembling. She was almost there. He swirled his tongue across her hardened clit as she writhed in ecstasy, bucking her hips toward him.

He licked and fingered her, increasing his speed in response to her commands to “Go faster” or “More, there, right there.” Her walls clenched, gripping his fingers, her body shivering. He smiled with satisfaction. She was sprawled across the bed, hair everywhere, skin dewy, completely spent. She forced her knees together, rolling back and forth slightly as she gasped for breath.

He laid kisses along her shoulder, then cradled her body against his, pulling the cover over them. “Not a bad way to kick things off at your place.”

She opened her eyes and touched his cheek, gazing at him for a moment. “There is one more thing I’d like you to do.” Her voice was quiet, their faces barely an inch apart as she spoke.

“Anything. Just name it.”

She licked her lips and took a deep breath, her hand still on his cheek. “Make love to me.”

<===END OF EXCERPT===>

While Jamie’s relationship struggles aren’t over, I’ve gotta say, “You’ve come a long way, baby!” Knowing about the awful events of her past, which the reappearance of her birth mother is forcing her to deal with, only makes me want to see this girl get her happy ending that much more. Read Miles and Jamie’s story in its entirety here.

Now, let’s discover what goodies the other teasing authors this week have in store.

Happy teasing!

Clawfoot tub photo courtesy of ahhfred. Some rights reserved.

You’ve got good taste in cheese #MWTease #BadBoysGoneGood

November 5, 2014 by ReeseRyan

Right about now you’re probably crashing from the sugar high you got after raiding the kiddies’ Trick or Treat stash (or maybe from ingesting the clearance candy, or is that just me?). No worries, we’ve got something that will perk you back up, calorie-free. It’s time for the Mid Week Tease, hosted by Sandra Bunino.

Last week Jamie and Miles finally made love. While Miles is down in the kitchen, dreamily preparing a late night snack, the reality of Jamie’s growing feelings for Miles has caused ugly memories from her past to resurface, reminding her of how dangerous it can be to let someone too close. Miles is eager to wake up with Jamie in his bed. She, on the other hand, feels the need for some space and has offered to take a cab home.

<===Love Me Not Excerpt===>

“I’m not going to let you take a cab home.” He tried to prevent his disappointment and frustration from seeping into his voice but was doing a terrible job. “If you want to leave now, of course I’ll take you. But first, answer one question for me honestly.”

He could feel her back tense under his fingers, but she nodded. “Sure. What is it?”

“That last time we…well, it was incredible, and I felt like we really…I don’t know, connected. I know you felt it, too, because you’ve sort of been pulling away ever since then. So is this really about your overnight rule, or are you just trying to put some space between us?”

Her eyes widened and met his for a moment. She looked away quickly and pressed her flattened palms into his chest, pushing away from him. “I just need to go home, okay?” She folded her arms and turned her back to him. “Don’t try to make this about something else.”

He gently placed his hand on her shoulder. Her muscles were tense beneath his fingers. He leaned down and kissed the top of her head. “Then that’s all it is. I’ll go and get dressed.”

She nodded, exhaling. “Thank you.”

“You must be hungry though. I’m starving. What if we have a bite to eat first?”

She took a seat on one of the bar stools and plucked a red grape and a square of cheese from the tray he’d been making. “I am kind of hungry. Hey, is that Gruyere? I love Gruyere.” She popped the cheese and fruit in her mouth and chewed. “Mmm…good.”

Miles smiled. Mmm…good. He’d been thinking the same thing when he’d had his first taste of her. He resumed slicing cheese, unable to avert his gaze from her as she opened her mouth and took a bite of one of the immense strawberries, followed by a piece of Havarti.

Did she have any idea how tantalizing she looked right now? He should be completely sated after the marathon lovemaking session they’d had in the previous hours, but he had a desperate need to take her again, right here on the counter. He groaned inwardly. He’d promised her that he’d take her home after they ate, and he would. But he didn’t have to like it.

He sliced another piece of Gruyere and extended it to her. The wily twinkle in her lovely green eyes made his heart skip a beat. She leaned forward and took the morsel from his fingers, nicking them a little with her teeth.

She walked around the island and wrapped her arms around his waist as she brushed her lips along the skin of his back, leaving nerves tingling in the wake of kisses that felt like zings of electricity. “You’ve got good taste in cheese. I like that in a man.”

Miles turned to face her, pulling her into him, his length pressed against her belly.

She was enjoying this. Seemed to revel in the power she had over his anatomy. A tight smile curled one corner of her mouth, and he had to delve his tongue between those luscious lips that teased him, daring him to have a taste.

“I should’ve known you only wanted me for my cheese.” He gently bit her earlobe.

She giggled. “And I thought I’d been so clever about it.”

His hand trailed down the braid, tugging her head back gently so her eyes met his. “You’re clever, alright, and extremely dangerous.”

“Clever and dangerous. Sounds like you’re outmatched.”

He released her braid and trailed kisses down her neck. “True, but I’m a pretty determined guy, so I won’t give up. Not until I convince you that I’m crazy about you. And that as much as I love that incredible body of yours…what I really want is all of you.”

She sank her teeth into her bottom lip and drew in a deep breath, her eyes meeting his for a moment then lowering to his chest, where she trailed her fingers through his hair. “Really?”

He lifted her chin, peering deep into those wickedly mysterious green eyes. “Really.”

Her hands were trembling, the bravado he’d seen a moment ago gone. He’d venture that there weren’t many things that scared Jamie Charles. But he could see the fear in her eyes so clearly. She hadn’t just avoided true intimacy, she was terrified of it. All of her rules and the tough-girl image were a ring of fire she’d surrounded herself with to keep everyone out. Only she didn’t realize that it imprisoned her as much as it protected her.

“Why is it so important to you that I stay?” Her lips were pressed into a slight grimace as she searched his face.

“Because you are an amazing woman, and I don’t want to miss a second with you,” he said, his palm pressed to her cheek. “Seeing this gorgeous face, hearing your infectious laugh…I can’t think of a more perfect way to start my day.”

Her gaze softened. A mischievous smirk replaced the wary look there a moment ago. “I’ll stay,” she said, barely able to keep a straight face, “but only because you have fancy cheese and premium cable.”

He laughed, taking her in his arms. Whatever her reason, if Jamie was breaking her sleepover rule for him, he’d make damn sure it was worth it.

<===END OF EXCERPT===>

Jamie may be clever and dangerous, but Miles is pretty damned perceptive. He’s able to read between the lines and he can hear the things Jamie isn’t saying. Most importantly, he cares for her enough to fight his way through the “ring of fire” she actively maintains around her heart to protect it from further damage. He will eventually discover just how deep those wounds go. But for now, they are both content.

Now, it’s time for more goodies–delicious and calorie-free. Visit the authors on the list below to see what yummy treats they have in store for you.

Photo courtesy of Didriks. Some rights reserved.

He was addicted to this girl #MWTease #BadBoysGoneGood

October 29, 2014 by ReeseRyan

Welcome to the Mid Week Halloween Tease!

You’ve been especially good this week, so you deserve a reward. No tricks. Just treats. (If you’ve been naughty, rest assured, one or more of the authors on the list below has a character who is fully prepared to dish out a delicious punishment for you. So you’re in the right place, too.) Here are some mid week goodies that won’t rot your teeth or go directly to your hips, thanks to Sandra Bunino, host of the Mid Week Tease. Last week, Miles and Jamie finally took their relationship behind closed doors with a bit of foreplay. But now Miles is ready to show her exactly how much she means to him.

<===Love Me Not Excerpt===>

Miles gathered her in his arms and they tumbled back on the bed. He crushed his mouth to hers, devouring it with hot, hungry kisses. Gripping his shaft—stretched tight and aching with his need for her—his eyes locked with hers. Body trembling, he shifted his hips forward, slowly entering her. Her soft gasp and the sensation of being surrounded by her wet heat sent his pulse racing. A low rumble vibrated in his chest and his muscles tensed. Her body opened to him, allowing him to penetrate deeper.

She whimpered and gripped the bedding, her eyes wild. Something in her gaze stoked the fire low in his belly, need spiraling through every inch of his body. A shiver ran the length of his spine. He swallowed hard then licked his lips. His biceps bulged as he supported his weight above her and stroked slowly, methodically, bringing her closer.

She felt so fucking good. The erotic dreams he’d succumbed to—imagining what it would feel like to finally be inside her—paled in comparison to the reality. He could get used to having Jamie Charles in his bed. Ravaging her voluptuous body. The woman was as addictive as cocaine and probably twice as dangerous. Still, he couldn’t resist her and had no desire to.

Her walls tightened around his shaft. An intense wave of pleasure snaked its way up through his body, bringing him close to the edge. Her eyes lit up and the corner of her mouth curled. Her fingers digging into his back, she pulled him in deeper. She enjoyed the control she had over him. But he wasn’t done yet. Not until he’d completely satisfied her, until she was begging him to stop. He sucked in a deep breath and focused, despite his trembling limbs and the thumping of his heartbeat.

Without breaking the rhythm of his thrust, he reached his fingers down between them and found the slick bud. She shivered, sputtering something unintelligible as he accelerated the speed and pressure of his stroke.

Now they were both grunting, muttering and exclaiming expletives with the sweetest pleasure. Her entire body shuddered and her walls spasmed, clenching around him. She grabbed his hand, an unspoken plea for mercy. He could finally let go. A few more strokes was all it took. He came hard, with an intensity that rocked his entire body.

Miles collapsed on the bed next to her, kissing the side of her face, their bodies beaded with sweat. It was official. He was addicted to this girl, and he had no plans of letting her go.

<===END OF EXCERPT===>

Miles is falling hard for Jamie. Despite her resistance, Jamie is falling for him, too. But with all of the baggage in her past, there’s no way she’ll go easily.

As you can see, I don’t do scary, but a several of the authors on the list today do. So, get your goody bags and your naughtiest costume. It’s time to make the rounds to see what the other Teasers are offering.

Smooches!

No More Waiting #MWTease #BadBoysGoneGood

October 8, 2014 by ReeseRyan

It’s time for the Mid Week Tease hosted by Sandra Bunino. Each week a diverse selection of authors share excerpts from either a work-in-progress or a published work. For the past few weeks I’ve been sharing excerpts from my most recent release, Love Me Not, the story of a brilliant, but damaged, artist with a painful past who wants nothing to do with love, and the man who is determined to have her heart.

Last week, Jamie finally agreed to go out with Miles and to see where things went. Miles, aware of Jamie’s inclination to keep her “relationships” strictly physical, has been working a plan to make her want much more than that. Jamie has been content in their growing relationship, a feeling that is foreign to her. However, when an older couple in a grocery store parking lot remarks that Jamie and Miles look just as in love as they were as young lovers, Jamie panics.

<===LOVE ME NOT EXCERPT===>

Jamie had always lived life on her terms, and that meant no long-term relationships. She’d witnessed what happened in those relationships. Maybe it took five months, or five years, but eventually someone got hurt. She’d had enough pain to last a lifetime. That was why she’d avoided getting her heart tangled up in something that could only go sideways. But one pair of hypnotic blue eyes and a devilish grin, and she’d forgotten about the need to protect her heart, no matter what. If she didn’t, who would?

Four lunch dates, six official dates, and she and Miles still hadn’t slept together. Instead she’d slipped into this ridiculous romance, like a lovesick schoolgirl. No wonder Mel got her heart broken so much. She spent so much time building up the relationship in her head before they’d sealed the deal. They were being absurd. She’d wanted to fuck Miles Copeland since the day he’d walked through the door of Tahlia’s. She’d restrained herself then because of Tahlia’s rule, and the fact that she needed her job. But they were both consenting adults. Not sleeping with him now was just plain stupid. More importantly, she’d given him the upper hand in the relationship.

She’d watched her mother surrender complete control of her mind, body and soul to the men who floated in and out of her life. They’d treated her like shit because she’d needed them. They were the ticket to her next drug score, her next bottle or paying the rent.
Jamie didn’t need any man, not even her father. She’d done fine without him. She wasn’t about to let Miles upset the careful balance she’d established. It was the only thing keeping her sane.

“Is everything okay?” Miles approached the car. “The door is unlocked so—”

Jamie rushed to him, grabbing his shirt in her hands and pulling his face toward hers. She pressed her lips against his, kissing him with an intense desperation. He was surprised at first but quickly acquiesced, slipping his arms around her waist and pulling her body into his. A wicked grin tugged at the corner of her mouth as she felt his body responding to her, his desire pressed against her belly. She was in control. And there was no doubt he wanted this as much as she did. No more waiting. She tore her mouth from his just long enough to whisper, “We need to get back to your place. Now.”

He took his keys out and pressed them in her palm. “You drive.”

***

They were barely inside Miles’s condo before Jamie straddled him on the nice new couch he was pointing out to her. She ground her hips against him. He knew she could feel his cock against the inside of her thigh.

He’d been in a near state of arousal all afternoon, courtesy of the tiny jean skirt and body-hugging women’s Browns football jersey she was wearing. It was all he could do not to slide his hand underneath her skirt on the ride there. But now, with her pawing at him like a hungry lioness and giving him the best damn lap dance of his life, he was in danger of completely losing control.

He’d always imagined Jamie to be a wildcat in the sack, but right now she was being pretty aggressive. A woman who knew exactly what she wanted and who wasn’t afraid to please a man was alluring, but this was more than the heat of passion. She had a driving need to be in control, to make this completely about the sex. A few weeks ago he’d have been all for that, but his feelings had changed.

“Jamie.” He broke their kiss and grabbed her arms, pinning them at her sides. His eyes scanned hers. “Is everything okay?”

Eyes wide, she sank her teeth into her lower lip then dropped her gaze. When her eyes met his again her brows were furrowed. Breathing still ragged, her chest hitched as she choked out a response. “I’m fine. This is what you wanted, isn’t it?”

“Of course I want to be with you, but not just physically. I really like you.” He pressed his lips into a slow smile. “I’ve looked forward to this a long time, so if you don’t mind, I’d like to drive this time.”

<===END OF EXCERPT===>

Miles may have put the brakes on Jamie’s aggressive need for control, but this train has already left the station for its destination. Next stop? Miles’s bedroom. Stay tuned for the next Love Me Not excerpt when Jamie and Miles turn up the heat. Now, it’s time to explore the goodies this week’s list of authors have in store. Happy teasing!

Losing Control #MWTease #BadBoysGoneGood

October 1, 2014 by ReeseRyan

Welcome to the Mid Week Tease, hosted by the phenomenal Sandra Bunino! You’ve not only made it through half of the work week, but we are officially entering the fourth quarter. Fall is here and the year is winding down. Where on earth did 2014 go? For me, this is a time to pull out my list of goals for 2014 to see how I’m doing. I’ll be peeking through my fingers with one eye closed. How about you?

Speaking of goals, Miles has a pretty firm one in mind. Last time, Jamie agreed to accept his challenge, and see where this goes. However, she’s been pretty clear about being a no-relationships kind of girl. Miles is determined to make this about much more. Even if it means denying himself the one thing he craves most.

<===LOVE ME NOT EXCERPT===>

Miles leaned down and planted delicate kisses on her face that made her belly flutter. She hadn’t expected that. She’d expected him to go full-in greedy and attack the mouth that ached to taste his again. The kisses Miles trailed down the side of her face at once stoked the warmth in her belly and the damp heat at her core. Desiring him made perfect sense. He was gorgeous, sweet, funny. The trembling that slowly spread through her body and the inability to catch her breath in response to innocent kisses was completely foreign. She wasn’t in control of herself anymore. He was. But she knew how to regain control.

She pressed the heel of her shaky hand into his chest and inhaled a deep breath, like she’d emerged from beneath water. Raising her eyes to his, she saw the desire in them. He wanted to put his hands on her bare skin, to plunge his length inside her, just as much as she wanted it. “I’d love to continue this,” she whispered in his ear. “But it’s freezing out here.”

Honestly, her body was filled with such intense heat she could probably power a small vehicle. She wanted to feel him inside her so badly that she’d let him fuck her right here in the backseat if he wanted to. But with his hotel room mere steps away, that seemed crass, even for her.

He swallowed, nodding glumly. “You’re right. Why don’t we…save this for another night. It’s late. You’re tired.”

She wondered if her face mirrored the rejection she felt there in the dark, the light of the streetlamp barely missing them. “I am,” she said, trying to keep her voice from wavering. “It’s been a long week.”

He nodded again, but she could see the disappointment there. He’d been looking for confirmation that she wanted to go back to his place, probably afraid he’d come off sleazy if he’d suggested it. Now it was too late to change her story without seeming as desperate for him as she felt.

“I’ll call you tomorrow, after you’ve had a chance to get some sleep. I’d like to take you to lunch.” He rested his fingertips lightly on her shoulder, then leaned in and placed his mouth on hers, his length pressing against her belly and increasing the warmth between her thighs. Finally he tore his mouth from her throbbing, barely satiated lips and placed one last kiss on her forehead. “Good night, beautiful.”

Miles tugged firmly on the door handle and ushered her inside the truck. He stood there patiently as she pulled out of the parking lot.

Jamie was stunned. Wasn’t this the point of the whole chase—to get her in bed? Here she was willing—God, was she willing—and he’d suggested they call it a night, given her a kiss on the forehead and sent her away? But then why hadn’t she told him the truth? That she wanted him to take her back to his hotel room?

He’d obviously wanted her as much as she wanted him. She sighed, remembering the feel of him, pressed hard against her belly. So why was he still standing there under the streetlight while she was driving away, limbs shaking, heart pounding, her desire for him blazing like a four-alarm fire?

Miles stood there, frozen in his spot, for a full minute after she’d gone, dick hard, pulse racing. He’d wanted to take her back to his bed and be properly introduced to every one of the tattoos he’d glimpsed as she moved about the bar. Each one taunted him—drove him practically insane—as he imagined his fingers tracing the edges he couldn’t see. He needed a drink. Something stiff as he was now, his khakis uncomfortably tented. Pulling his coat around him, he trudged across the street.

Back in his room he pulled out a bottle of brandy and poured himself a liberal glass. The liquid sloshed a little as he raised the glass to his mouth and gulped. Jamie Charles was trouble with a capital T and a minimum of three exclamation points. Every fiber of his being knew it. So why was she all he could think of? He glanced across his darkened hotel suite at the empty king-size bed. If he wanted her so desperately, why wasn’t she here in his bed so he could explore every inch of her delicate skin?

In the beginning there was nothing he desired more than the satisfaction of touching her, of tasting her. He’d dreamed of how it would feel to sink his fingers into the round curves of that incredible ass, body trembling, as he came deep inside her. But that was before he’d gotten to know her. She was beautiful, complex, smart and sweet—though she tried her hardest not to show it. Jamie was a fascinating, intricate puzzle he desperately needed to solve. And yet there was something about her that was comforting and familiar. Miles didn’t want her body for a night, or even a week. He yearned for a deeper connection with her. Wanted her to belong to him—mind, body and soul, the way he belonged to her. A proposition she’d made it quite clear held no interest for her. So despite the fact that he wanted her in his bed tonight, he knew he had to make her want more than that, or he’d lose her. And that wasn’t a chance he was willing to take.

<===END OF EXCERPT===>

I love a man with a plan and the discipline to see it through. However, Jamie can be pretty insistent, too, when it comes to getting what she wants. Stay tuned to find out who wins. In the meantime, let’s grab our party hats and those little bottles of liquor we’ve been holding onto for just the right occasion. Now let’s go teasing!

Challenge Accepted #MWTease #BadBoysGoneGood

September 17, 2014 by ReeseRyan

It’s time for the Mid Week Tease, hosted by Sandra Bunino. Each week I look forward to sampling excerpts from fellow authors in a variety of genres. I can’t wait to see what everyone has in store this week. So, without further ado, let the teasing begin!

After Miles kissed Jamie, he discovered that the restaurant where she works has a hard, fast rule about employees not dating customers. Several weeks have passed and Miles hasn’t come into the restaurant. Despite trying to convince herself otherwise, Jamie’s friend Lisa discovered that Jamie has a serious case of Miles on the brain. This week, Miles returns with a challenge for Jamie, but is she willing to break her “no relationships” rule and put her heart at risk?

<===LOVE ME NOT EXCERPT===>

Miles slowly approached Jamie in the parking lot. Her coworker, Lisa, saw him first. He raised a finger to his lips. She nodded imperceptibly, hardly able to contain a grin.

“Jamie,” he said when he was just a few feet behind her.

She spun around, putting her hand to her chest. “Miles? My God, what is it with you and creeping up on people at three in the morning?”

“I needed to talk to you.” He took a step back, not wanting to make her uncomfortable.

She said good night to Lisa then leaned against the door of her idling truck, arms folded tightly across her chest. Jamie angled her head, a frown tugging at the corner of those dark, pouty lips. Her intense stare demanded an explanation. “You know where I work. Why didn’t you just come to the bar?”

“Why?” The edge of Mile’s mouth turned up slightly as he inched closer. “Did you miss me?”

“I just noticed you weren’t there. That’s all,” she said. “After all, you were here at least three times a week for months, but then you kiss me and I don’t see you again for—”

“Six weeks.” His voice was softer and lower as he stepped closer to her. “And I haven’t been able to think about anything but that kiss since then.”

Head tilted slightly, her eyes studied his. “Really?”

He nodded, smiling. “Really.”

“That night, when I told you we couldn’t see each other…you disappeared without saying goodbye. So why are you back now? The rule hasn’t changed.”

“Our situation has.”

“What do you mean?” She shifted her weight from one foot to the other. “I still work here and you’re still—”

“A customer? Not anymore. I haven’t been here for more than a month, and I won’t walk through those doors again. That means I’m no longer a customer. I’m just a man who is absolutely crazy about you. Crazy enough to sacrifice the best pork chops I’ve eaten in years.” His smile widened. “That’s gotta mean something, right?”

Lips pressed into a faint grimace, Jamie blinked twice and tugged at her ear lobe. “I’m flattered that you like me, and I’m obviously attracted to you, but I’m not the kind of girl you wanna get mixed up with. Trust me.”

“Why not? Because your life isn’t neat and perfect? No one’s is.”

“You have no idea who I really am. I know you think I’m nice or that you like me or whatever, but the girl you like is the barmaid who has to be nice to you because you’re a customer. Do you have any clue how many times I would’ve cussed you out if I hadn’t been working behind that bar?”

“Jamie—”

“I’m not a nice person, Miles. I’m a complete bitch. A guy like you? I’d chew you up and spit you out before you had the slightest idea what hit you. So do us both a favor. Just walk away. There’s nothing to see here. Nothing you’d want if you experienced the real me, up close and personal. So let’s save ourselves some aggravation, okay?” She turned and pulled on the door handle. It didn’t budge.

Miles placed his hand on her shoulder. “I know you’re scared, but I’m not going to hurt you. I care very much for you.” She trembled slightly but didn’t respond. Wouldn’t even turn around. “Say something. Please. Anything.”

She turned around, ripping his hand from her shoulder. “Men always promise that, but it’s not true. They all hurt you. And the truth is, I’m going to hurt you, too. Even if I don’t want to. Because that’s who I am. That’s the person I’ve always been. That’s the only person I’ll ever be. And I don’t want to hurt you. So trust me when I tell you, this isn’t what you want. I’m not who you want.”

He gripped her arms firmly. She looked away, but he lifted her chin with one hand. He needed to look in her eyes, needed her to believe every goddamn word he was about to say—because it was the absolute truth. “I’m not your father. I’m not like the guys your mom dated. I’m not any of the guys from your past. I’m the man you’ve gotten to know right there in that bar. The man who gets a kick out of making you laugh because it’s one of the most scintillating sounds I’ve ever heard. The man who sees how beautiful and brilliant you are. Who sees the person even you don’t see. You say I don’t know the real you, that I could never care about you the way I do if I did. Then prove it. Let me in. Open the door a crack, just enough for me to get a foot in.” He tried to put her at ease with a reassuring smile. “I won’t hurt you, Jamie. I promise.”

Her steely gaze softened and he could see tears welling in them. She bit her lip as tears slid down her cheeks. Miles pulled Jamie into him, wrapping his arms around her as she buried her face in his chest.

This wasn’t the way he’d envisioned their reunion, but it was exactly what she needed. He squeezed her against his body and kissed the top of her head, inhaling her scent—lemongrass maybe. Suddenly she sniffled and took a step backward as she wiped her face with the back of her hand.

“I’m sorry. I can’t believe I just blubbered all over you like that. God, I’m so embarrassed right now.”

“Don’t apologize,” he said. “I want you to be able to talk to me. About anything. That’s what friends are for, right?” He nudged her arm with his elbow.

“I guess.” She laughed then sniffled again. She took a step toward him, closing the gap between them again. “But if after that disgusting, snot-filled display you’re still interested, I accept your challenge.”

He looked down at her. Even with a tear-streaked face and reddened cheeks, she was still gorgeous in the moonlight.

<===END OF EXCERPT===>

Looks like Miles’ persistence is finally paying off. But the stakes in their little game have changed. For Miles, this isn’t just about sex, or even just having a little fun, anymore. He wants much more. In two weeks we’ll discover that he’ll do (or not do) whatever it takes to get Jamie on the same page.

Now, it’s time to sample the goodies all of our other teasers have in store. Just follow the links below: