MA Ellis
The Cake Babe

Tell us about your most erotic romantic fantasy. If you could have a 24-hour romantic fling with anyone you wanted, anywhere you wanted, where would you go, what would you do and with whom would you do it?
     It would involve a road trip in a 1969 Lincoln Continental, the last year for the long-forgotten suicide doors, and actor Sam Elliott, rock legend Ted Nugent, country music hunk Trace Adkins and, stay with me now, overlooked member of the American Chopper team Mikey Tuetul. (Sam and Ted are constants, the other two spots tend to rotate depending on my varying moods.) Sam just has to talk. That’s it. His sexy drawl could simply read lines from his various films, except Roadhouse, and I’d be ready to crawl into the backseat of that steely mammoth and let Ted and Trace have their way with me. Last time I spun the imaginary wheel of erotic desires, props included a yard of grosgrain ribbon, an AC adaptable chocolate fondue fountain and a half-gallon of Ketel One vodka. (The latter goes with Mikey since his sole purpose in the fantasy is to smile and keep my martini glass full at all times.) When Sam’s deep, raspy voice says “Beef, it’s what for dinner” all choruses of 99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall cease and the kinkiness begins.

Tell us about your upcoming release and what you hope readers will enjoy about it.
     THE CAKE BABE is a contemporary quickie in the Naughty Nuptials series. Marissa Hughes, focused on establishing her baking business, has pushed aside all thoughts of men until Jason Henderson strolls into the private kitchen the day before the wedding of the year. He’s tall and ripped with teasing brown eyes, and his heart-stopping grin has her self-imposed celibacy hitting a large, masculine wall.

     Jason sets eyes on the hot little cake babe and immediately wonders if she’s as sweet as the confections she creates. Her girl-next-door cuteness and lush curves are a sheer distraction, prompting him to investigate if her lips are sweeter than spun sugar. Before long he tastes more than just her butter cream icing.

     Surrendering to the undeniable attraction does nothing to slake their desire. In fact, it only intensifies and carries over to the wedding reception itself. Who knew a little leftover frosting, an urge to go pantiless and an errant bouquet toss would have Marissa’s usually calm existence churning in a sexual maelstrom she suddenly has no wish to overcome.

     Of course, I look forward to the readers enjoying the hot, unbridled love scenes between Marissa and Jason but I also look forward to them laughing at the interspersed humor. I’m a firm believer that everyone should smile often. While sexual interaction with your lover is a wonderful thing, humor is equally important. I like to think all my characters have mastered that special blend.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?
     I love to read. If I can sit in my comfy chair with an Amanda Quick, Sherilyn Kenyon or Stephanie Laurens and not be interrupted, I’m in heaven. I’m also a master baker. It’s a trait I share with the heroine in THE CAKE BABE, although nothing erotic has ever happened when I’ve whipped up a batch of frosting!

What do you like about where you live?
     The perfect seasonal blends of activity and quiet. I live on a lake and this time of year we’re inundated with the arrival of birds and boaters. There’s never a lull in activity, which is very stimulating. But once October arrives, the entire landscape changes and you’re surrounded by solitude. Both seasons are very inspirational and great backdrops for writing.

If you could have one special super or magical power, what would it be?
     Teleportation. It would be amazing to be able to get research on various locales and people in the blink of an eye, up close and personal. I’ve lived all over the country during the last 26 years and having the ability to revisit friends and memories and places would be a gift to be cherished.

What’s your favorite smell?
     Hot, molten chocolate. Preferably, Valrhona being baked into a chocolate soufflé. There’s nothing better. But the smell of baby powder is a close second.

What makes a man sexy?
     In the real world? Intelligence, unusual eye color (I’m partial to a light green-blue shade because I’ve been fortunate enough to wake up to a pair of those beauties for years), and a laugh that’s deep and genuine. Great biceps are an added bonus. Having one wrapped around your waist and another across your chest? Definitely sexy.

What’s the most interesting thing you’ve ever done?
     When on vacation on St. Lucia many years ago a group of guests had the opportunity to watch George Foreman spar at a ring constructed at the resort. We were mesmerized as this man, considered well past his prime, trained for his upcoming match. When he was done, he took time to talk to the crowd. There were a handful of Americans there and he posed with each couple, the entire time talking about perseverance and overcoming odds. He was an inspiration and it was a trip I’ve never forgotten. Of course, part of that was due to the fact it was the first time I decided to embrace the idea of a topless beach and ended up in someone’s wedding video, but that’s another story.

What else would you like readers to know about you or your work?
     My previous writing has been in poetry and the historical genre, but I think I’ve found a voice in contemporary thanks to the continuing presence of my secondary characters. Jason, the hero in THE CAKE BABE has five brothers and they continue to insinuate themselves into my stories. His older brother, Tom, will have his chance at romance in an upcoming Torrid Tarot, and the remaining brothers aren’t far behind. I’m thrilled to be a part of the talented authors at Ellora’s Cave.

Red Garnier
Spin Devil

Tell us about your most erotic romantic fantasy. If you could have a 24-hour romantic fling with anyone you wanted, anywhere you wanted, where would you go, what would you do and with whom would you do it?

     This question is going to get me in trouble. Hubby, honey, if you’re reading this, I swear to God it’s you! Anywhere you want, any way you and the muscled hunk want it!

Tell us about your upcoming release and what you hope readers will enjoy about it.
     I personally adore this book. SPIN DEVIL is about a game involving a plush devil and two unlikely people on opposing ends of it. There’s a substantial clash of wills between the hero and heroine, and a need so deep it’s almost primitive. The hero, Sebastian, is unashamedly sinful, while Cleo is his complete opposite.

What’s your writing space like?
     I’ve got three words for you. Comfortable, messy, and sacred. It’s comfortable because my desk sits next to a window overlooking the city, and my chair is quite inviting now that it’s used to me. It’s also quite a bit of a mess. The good thing is, it’s the kind of mess where I know exactly what’s in each drawer, no matter how long it takes me to find it! Most importantly, it’s sacred; whenever my husband or one of my kids dare touch my computer or any of the things on my desk, they’re really in for it. I remember plenty of times when they’ve plotted against me and done that just to tick me off and drag me away from my chair! Good thing is, I’ve got all the heroes on my side!

What do you like about where you live?
     I love the mountains and the valley below—I get to see it from my window (that is, when I’m not fantasizing about another world, one of my own making!).

If you could have one special super or magical power, what would it be?
     One sounds so limiting! I hope I had all of it, all the magic on my side. Magic would heal the sick, would let us soar as high as we’d dare, would give hope to the hopeless, and love to those forsaken by it. I really wish I could in some way make a difference in the world—be it to one person or millions.

What’s your favorite smell?
     Flower scents make me dizzy, so scratch those off. Cinnamon makes me sneeze, so that’s a no-no. I think my favorite has to be the scent of vanilla. Or coffee. Hmm. Or a blend of both. Will you excuse me?

What else would you like readers to know about you or your work?
     Readers, this first one’s for you, and for my beloved editor. I hope you like it as she did! Please drop by my website whenever you feel like it. You are more than welcome there!

Alyssa Brooks
www.alyssabrooks.com
Desperate Seduction

Tell us about your most erotic romantic fantasy. If you could have a 24-hour romantic fling with anyone you wanted, anywhere you wanted, where would you go, what would you do and with whom would you do it?
     Anyone? Hmmmm. Wait a sec…if it’s my fantasy, can’t I have more than one guy? How about a Vin Diesel and The Rock sandwich? Actually, even better, I wouldn’t mind bringing a few of my own heroes to life. Seems they know what they’re doing in the bedroom! But truly, I wouldn’t want to be with anyone but my dear hubby. He has my heart and is the star of my every fantasy! We never got to go on a honeymoon (not yet anyway!) and I’d love for him and me to have a tropical island all to ourselves—no kids, nothing to interrupt us. We could sip wine, feed each other fruit, go skinny dipping, and sunbathe naked. Make love in the sand and bask in our love. If I ever hit the New York Times Bestseller list (or the lottery!), I plan to make that fantasy come true!

Tell us about your upcoming release and what you hope readers will enjoy about it.
     Actually, I have two titles due out this spring from Ellora’s Cave.DESPERATE SEDUCTION is my first EC book. This novella tells the story of Claire, who is diagnosed with premature menopause. Faced with the reality that she may not be able to become pregnant, Claire realizes just how much she wants a family. She decides to ask her best friend, Blake, to give her a child, but Blake has needs of his own—dark, sexual ones. He agrees to impregnate Claire, but only if she can prove they’re compatible in the bedroom.

     DESPERATE SEDUCTION is a story that I hold close to my heart. Like so many other women, I too had trouble getting pregnant and I know how very emotional, how very desperate it can make you feel. Luckily, I had a husband, and getting pregnant can be quite fun! Claire has plenty of fun herself, but she also experiences a true emotional journey as she learns to give herself completely to Blake, surrendering herself to him, to his bedroom preferences.

     Also due out this spring is ORCHIDS AND ORGASMS, a quickie written by myself and Larissa Lyons, which will be a part of the Naughty Nuptials line. This story is laugh-out-loud fun, H-O-T HOT, and romantic to the very last line.

What’s your writing space like?
     Sad. One of these days, perhaps my spare room will actually be a spare room, and I can use it as an office. For now though, it seems there’s always another family member occupying it for one reason or another, and I’m stuck in the kitchen—right in front of the refrigerator, next to the microwave. It’s no wonder I’ve put on weight! The good part is I’m near the coffeemaker!
I don’t have a “desk,” but an old sewing table. It was my mother’s, a wedding gift given to her by my grandfather, so it has sentimental value. At first, I was using it because I could afford anything else, now…now it’s just my desk, covered in scattered papers, books, sticky notes, even a couple of credit cards, and heck, one unused gift card (when will I spend that? Geez! Free shopping—what’s wrong with me!?)

     I don’t try to be organized—I just try to look like I am when company comes. Which means I pile everything up into a neat stack that practically reaches the ceiling.

What do you like about where you live?
     The changing seasons. I can’t imagine living in a place where it’s warm or cold year round. We see lots of weather here in Pennsylvania—we get plenty of snow in the winter, experience glorious warm, sunshiny springs, put up with damn hot summers, and my favorite, we have cool, crisp falls—but never anything too extreme.

If you could have one special super or magical power, what would it be?
     Oh, that’s easy! I want a remote for the kids and my husband—on, off, and volume control!

What’s your favorite smell?
     You know, I was reading the question out loud and was about to answer with “chocolate,” when my husband ran up and put his arm pit in my face. Can I change my answer to number one? Where’s Vin Diesel when you need him?

What else would you like readers to know about you or your work?
     I host a free erotic ezine, Wicked Escapes, with author Larissa Lyons. Chock full of free reads, our latest news, etc, it’s a great way for readers to keep up with what’s going on with us. You can check it out at www.wickedescapesezine.com.

Bernadette Gardner
www.bernadettegardner.com
Rogue Theta

Tell us about your most erotic romantic fantasy. If you could have a 24-hour romantic fling with anyone you wanted, anywhere you wanted, where would you go, what would you do and with whom would you do it?
     I’d definitely pick a remote tropical island where I could hear the pounding surf, feel warm, sensual breezes and have a backdrop of a magnificent ocean sunset. My fantasy would include barefoot walks on the beach, cool tropical drinks, and fabulous food topped off with a night spent in a huge silk-sheeted bed which I’d be sharing with a tall, dark alpha hero who knows how to be creative with silken ties and whipped cream.

Tell us about your upcoming release and what you hope readers will enjoy about it.
     ROGUE THETA is the story of a futuristic government assassin sent to destroy a cyber soldier whose programming has gone bad. Instead of a rampaging war machine, she discovers a man who has lost his home and his memories to wartime technology. She chooses to save his life, at the cost of her career and her heart. In addition to absolutely sizzling sex, my characters, Lilliana and Gaige, share an emotional connection that makes them a couple to root for. They’re both searching for something to complete them and when they find it they’re willing to risk everything to change their circumstances. I hope readers will find ROGUE THETA not only an exciting science-fiction adventure, but a gripping love story as well .

What do you like to do when you’re not working?
     I love crafts so when I really want a break, I like to make things. I quilt and make wreaths and silk-flower arrangements and I’ve recently rediscovered painting. Set me loose in a craft store and I’m bound to find some project to keep me busy.

What do you like about where you live?
     I like the change of seasons. The northeast has the gamut of weather and most of the time everyone is complaining it’s either too hot, too cold, too dry, or too rainy, but I love that we have hot summers and snowy winters and beautiful crisp fall days.

If you could have one special super or magical power, what would it be?
     I’d love to be able to fly.

What’s your favorite smell?
     I like things that smell purple. Yes, I’m strange that way. I like the slightly musky scent of lilacs and lavender and dark raspberry.

What makes a man sexy?
     It’s the eyes that get me every time. A deep, seductive stare, a man who can lock eyes with a woman and communicate what he wants without words—that’s sexy.

What’s the most interesting thing you’ve ever done?
     A three-week tour of Australia was probably the most interesting thing I’ve ever done. I saw some amazing things, met some wonderful people and fell in love with the country. The best part of the trip, in addition to snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, was getting to see a symphony in the famous Sydney Opera House. I’d been fascinated with that building my whole life and to finally walk inside it was a thrill I’ll never forget.

What else would you like readers to know about you or your work?
     I would love readers to think of my stories when they want adventure and romance. I will freely admit that I read to escape the stress of everyday life and I want to be able to bring that to my audience. If you want to get away for a while and live in another world, think of Bernadette Gardner. She’ll take you anywhere you want to go.

Taige Crenshaw
www.taigecrenshaw.com
Seducing a God

If you could have a 24-hour romantic fling with anyone you wanted, anywhere you wanted, where would you go, what would you do and with whom would you do it?
     I’d want it to be a carnal, hot, unadulterated feast of all the senses. First it would start with looking at each other. The sensual connection is in the eyes. Next we go to the scent of his skin and mine. We would just take it all in. It would fill us up and make us shift with longing. Then we would kiss and taste each other. A clash of tongues. Nothing would be left unexplored. This would lead to the sounds of our passion spilling from between our pressed lips. It would make our hearts pound with wanting more. Finally we would explore each other. Just a gentle stroke before increasing with more.

Tell us about your upcoming release and what you hope readers will enjoy about it.
     SEDUCING A GOD is the story of Markus M’ar Riage, the God of Matrimony and Paula Stroker. What does a god who believes in marriage and love do when faced with the ultimate temptation? Well Markus faces that problem. He is there to help a bride and groom along their path to marriage. Yet Paula drives him into unbridled lust. For a man used to being in control it is confounding and oh so decadent. Paula is sort of shy but when she sees Markus the shyness goes out the window. She wants him and no matter his reservations she will use whatever opportunity presents itself. It’s time for seduction that will knock his socks off.

     The readers will enjoy the heated exchanges and connection between Markus and Paula. Although Paula is sort of a geek, her profession (you’ll have to read the book to find out what she does) is unexpected. Most of all they will enjoy seeing what happens when the God of Matrimony meets the one woman who makes him forget all about his duties. It’s a wild adventure that will make you laugh, curse and want to grab a glass of ice water.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?
     I love movies, reading and music. I go to the movies as often as I can. If I don’t feel like going out, you can usually find me curled in a chair with a book while music plays in the background. Well sometimes I’ve been known to get up when a good song comes on and shake my butt all over the house while singing at the top of my lungs. LOL

What do you like about where you live?
     I live in NY and I love it. I love the diversity, colors and scents of the city. It is a true melting pot. Some of my best ideas come to me as I ride the subway and see all the people of NY. The Broadway shows, opera, ballet and concerts. You can go anywhere in NY. It is a feeling hard to describe. There is a vibe in NY that fills you.

If you could have one special super or magical power, what would it be?
     I would love to have magical powers. The power to move things with mind, levitate and go anyplace with a thought. Wow that would be phenomenal.

What’s your favorite smell?
     The smell of caramel or coconut. I love caramel. It has such a robust scent. Coconut makes me think of home.

What makes a man sexy?
     His eyes and a chest so broad and luscious it makes you want to lay your head down and weep.

What’s the most interesting thing you’ve ever done?
     Pursue my passion to be a writer. Although I wrote all the time, I never expected to make a profession of it. Being able to explore all the worlds and characters I create is a dream come true.

What else would you like readers to know about you or your work?
     In my work there are engaging characters, plot and sexy encounters. I combine all three to create a spicy, interesting read. I also tend to put my Taige spin on things. So expect twists and turns you will not see coming. I like to make my stories unique.

Brynn Paulin
Wedding Jitters

Tell us about your most erotic romantic fantasy. If you could have a 24-hour romantic fling with anyone you wanted, anywhere you wanted, where would you go, what would you do and with whom would you do it?

     Does this include the guy who wants nothing more than to clean my house? LOL. Really, if I could have the 24-hour fling you mention, I’d actually want it to be with a complete stranger who absolutely adored me and surprised me with his own fantasies. Of course if he spent his time desperately searching for me afterward…well, romantic as that might be, my husband might get a little irritated.

Tell us about your upcoming release and what you hope readers will enjoy about it.
     WEDDING JITTERS is about a woman who’s a fairy. She’s tried all her life to function in the world as a human. She hides her nature with magic. Jitters and sex—hot out-of-control sex—are the only things that will break the spell. It’s a good thing she’s marrying the most boring man on the planet. She wants the companionship, but she’s sure he’ll never excite her enough to make the magic fail. She never counted on the Prince of Fairy being sent to bring her back to Fairy. He’s determined to claim her and take her home. Even more, he wants to show her how beautiful her wings are.

     This book is really about my heroine appreciating her true nature. We’re all like this. We all have wings we hate or we try to hide. I hope that every person who reads this story will come away with an appreciation of themselves or at least a desire to stop hiding their wings.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?
     I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. Most of my friends are writers and they’re energizing. I’m also a Pogo addict. I spend way too much time at pogo.com playing games. Beyond that, I like to cook, scrapbook, oh and watch Medium—it’s the only TV show I watch.

What do you like about where you live?
     I live in Michigan and I love that we have three and a half wonderful seasons. I despise about half of summer, but Lake Michigan nearby makes it more tolerable. I always look forward to fall. Autumn here is beautiful. Beyond that, I live in one of the state’s bigger cities but it has a small town feel and the solitude of the country is less than a ten-minute drive away.

If you could have one special super or magical power, what would it be?
     It would be to slow down time, especially in the morning. I hate being late but I always manage it anyway.

What’s your favorite smell?
     I love the smell of freshly cut grass on a cool spring day.

What makes a man sexy?
     Okay, I’ll be the first to admit I find “the curve” the sexiest part of the male body. You know, the curve…that lovely ridge made of hipbone and muscle that you just want to bite…but I digress. There is something sexier than that. A guy can have the hottest body this side of Rafael Lazzini (look him up; you won’t be sorry) but if he doesn’t have a brilliant mind, I’ll look for a second, smile, then lose interest.

What’s the most interesting thing you’ve ever done?
     I live vicariously through my fiction, let’s just say that.

What else would you like readers to know about you or your work?
     I love what I do. I love exploring the minds and emotions of my characters. And I love happily ever after. I’m committed to it in my fiction and in real life.

Alice Gaines
http://home.pacbell.net/halice/
Wedding Night Suprise

Tell us about your most erotic romantic fantasy. If you could have a 24-hour romantic fling with anyone you wanted, anywhere you wanted, where would you go, what would you do and with whom would you do it?

     Where would definitely be someplace isolated. Who would want other people around? And it would be someplace warm so we wouldn’t have to wear clothes. It would also have to include warm water for frolicking. I guess the best place would be a luxury home on a private beach. That way we could have great music, gourmet food and fine wine as well as the ocean nearby. I love to cook so I’d probably feed us. We’d also drink some great California reds—cabernet, sangiovese and mourvedre.

     At my age, the who would have to be a younger man. Actually I’d rather have two younger men, when you get right down to it. They’d be smart, funny and totally devoted to my pleasure. It’d be great if they cooked too, so the three of us could have fun in the kitchen.

     Breakfast would be ripe fruit from the farmers’ market, not the supermarket. We’d follow that with hash browns and eggs benedict. One of the guys could poach the eggs, the other would make the hash browns and heat the Canadian bacon. I’d whip up the hollandaise.

     After that, we’d hit the swimming pool—a really big one designed so that it appears to pour right into the sea. After luscious sex in various combinations of bodies, we’d soak up some sun (using plenty of sun block that we’d massage into each others’ bodies).

     Lunch would be light and involve lots of homegrown tomatoes. Then we’d explore the beach and splash around in the waves. We’d have dinner in a gazebo on the beach—grilled New York steaks, baked potatoes, grilled vegetables with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Cheesecake for dessert.

     Later we’d recline on pillows in front of a fire in the living room and listen to Verdi on the stereo. Verdi makes a great soundtrack for lovemaking. After we were all exhausted we’d slide between clean sheets in a king-size bed. I’d sleep between the two guys, of course. One or both would wake me up for more lovemaking with the sounds of waves in the background. We’d all troop down to the kitchen for omelets (no cholesterol in fantasy, right?). Then back to bed for more fun.

     Whew. I am a nasty old lady.

Tell us about your upcoming release and what you hope readers will enjoy about it.
     My first Ellora’s Cave release is a short in the NAUGHTY NUPTIALS series. It’s called WEDDING NIGHT SURPRISE. After reading my fantasy, you won’t be surprised to hear that my story is a menage. Cass is about to marry Steve, the man she’s loved since high school. All’s well until she meets his best man, Rafe, a devilish guy who’s irresistible to women including Cass. She’s troubled by her attraction to Rafe but her gem of a bridegroom figures out a way for her to satisfy her itch while still having a happily ever after with him.

     Although I love alpha heroes, I also adore sweet guys, especially if they’re really good in bed. I hope my readers will fall in love with Steve as much as they do with Rafe.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?
     My favorite thing in the world is to sit in my little backyard with my idiot cat at my feet and mocking birds singing in the holly tree. Usually in the summer, I have squashes, beans, tomatoes and cucumbers growing in my garden. It’s so wonderful to pick vegetables and take them right into the kitchen.

     As I mentioned, I love to cook. One of my favorite things to make is homemade pizza margherita with my own Early Girl tomatoes. I also keep a strain of wild yeast growing that I use to make waffles and pancakes. I had hoped to capture the combination of wild yeast, Candida humilis, and bacterium, lactobacillus sanfrancisco, that make our wonderful sourdough bread. I didn’t get it the first time but I haven’t given up.
I also have two pet corn snakes that I adore, Casper and Sheikh Yerbouti. I get them out once a day so they can explore a bit while I watch the news.

What do you like about where you live?
     Don’t even get me started. I adore Oakland, California. The best thing about this area is the climate. It seldom gets below 40 or above 90 and we get no rain from May through September. Cloudless cool days in summer. Heaven.

     Oakland has everything a big city offers but maintains a hometown feel. We have professional baseball and football (if you count the Raiders), great music (Tower of Power is the best band in the world) and great food of all ethnicities.

     Oaktown is second only to New York City in the number of artists in residence per capita. We also have a rich history. The inspiration for Disneyland sits smack dab on top of the first wildlife sanctuary in the United States. Nearby is the real terminus of the transcontinental railroad and not far from there is the location of the founding of the University of California.

If you could have one special super or magical power, what would it be?
     I’d like to be able to travel back and forth in time. I’d love to sit down and have long talks with people like Shakespeare, Abraham Lincoln and the men who founded the United States. How I would love to pick Thomas Jefferson’s brain. What a brilliant and complicated man!

What’s your favorite smell?
     Roses

What makes a man sexy?
     He must be intelligent and have a good sense of humor. Once he has that, the single sexiest thing about a man is his smile. If it’s warm and open and comes with a wicked twinkle in his eye, he owns me.

What’s the most interesting thing you’ve ever done?
     I once got to play with four or five adolescent hyenas. A former professor of mine has a colony of these amazing animals in the hills behind the UC Berkeley campus. Before he wised up he’d let visitors interact with his hyenas. It’s actually quite dangerous because they’re incredibly strong and aggressive in their play. I got out with a few bruises and chewed shoelaces but it was so much fun.

     Oh, and I once kissed Luciano Pavarotti.

What else would you like readers to know about you or your work?
     I write what fascinates me and it’s an incredible ego trip when other people enjoy my stories. I came to Ellora’s Cave via Cerridwen, which published my fantasy, CHILD OF BALANCE, in April. I spent most of a year consumed with that book and I’m so pleased to have it available for other people to read.

     For Ellora’s Cave, I write what I find sexy. Although my characters are good-looking, they’re sexy more because of the wicked twinkle in the eye and their dedication to satisfying their partners than because of their appearance.

     Considerate men make the best lovers in my experience and those tend to be the men I write. I’ll also have a full-length book with Ellora’s Cave soon. The hero in that one is far less considerate but then, my heroine has kidnapped him, so he has good reason to feel disgruntled.

 

Anh Leod
www.anhleod.com
Lucky Number Seven

If you could have a 24-hour romantic fling with anyone you wanted, anywhere you wanted, where would you go, what would you do and with whom would you do it?

     Can I have Paris? Ummm…romantic Paris and a hot tub and a masseur? Let’s see. We’d wander through Paris all day, then come back to our gorgeous tower suite above the beautiful streets for a couples’ massage. My lover would have a hot Mademoiselle massaging him, I’d have a naughty muscle-bound boy toy working on me for the eye-candy factor. By the time they left we’d be relaxed and we’d cuddle up together in the best bed ever, sharing a box of Parisian pastries and chocolates. We’d make love there, then in the hot tub, then on the thick rug in front of the fire, in front of the window looking out at the lights and wherever else we could find…taking breaks to feed chocolate-covered strawberries to each other…

Tell us about your upcoming release and what you hope readers will enjoy about it.
     My first Anh Leod release is LUCKY NUMBER SEVEN. The human heroine is a jilted bride who feels deprived of good sex and resolves to get some, never realizing that the best lovemaking comes with a true mate and hers just happens to be a werewolf! I’ve had a lot of fun building my shape-shifter universe and I hope readers like it since the sequel, BIJOU’S BONDS, is in the works for release late in 2007!

What do you like to do when you’re not working?
     I have always been a bookworm so I read whenever I can. I love Ellora’s Cave and Cerridwen books so I’m just thrilled to be publishing with them. I also cook, garden, knit, exercise when I can and I’m trying to find the time to explore natural medicine again. Right now I’m focusing on flower essences.

What do you like about where you live?
     I like having my own peaceful little house. Before this I lived in apartments or condominiums in a big city. Where I live now is more rural and quiet, even if it is a housing development! I live in the Pacific Northwest, which rarely has weather extremes and I like that too, being a weather wienie!

If you could have one special super or magical power, what would it be?
     Knowing the disaster my house is right now, I’d like to be a witch with knowledge of cleaning spells so my house, cars and yard would always be immaculate without my having to do the labor part.

What’s your favorite smell?
     I grew up in a quiet neighborhood in Seattle and I love the way it smells. Away from main roads, part of it was near water and rich with wealthy mansion owners (who can afford gardeners), so you smell lots of flowers and trees with a hint of water underneath when you take walks.

What makes a man sexy?
     In my husband’s case, it is well-developed arms and the best butt ever! I’m definitely an arms/butt girl, but more importantly (I suppose) is unexpected sweetness, like neck rubs, little gifts, having dinner ready when you have to work late…

What’s the most interesting thing you’ve ever done?
     Right now I’m thinking marriage is pretty interesting. I celebrated my first wedding anniversary not too long ago and combining lives is such an intense, complex experience. Not having married until my mid-thirties I had quite an independent lifestyle before this so it is a huge change. My husband is quite a bit younger than me too, so he keeps me active!

What else would you like readers to know about you or your work?
     I also write as Heather Hiestand. Anh Leod is my very sexy, paranormal side and Heather Hiestand is more mainstream but still a lot of fun. My website is www.coffeeonsundays.info (which you can access by my names too) and I have a monthly newsletter for reader updates.

Eve Vaughn
www.evevaughn.com
Wedding Stud

Tell us about your most erotic romantic fantasy. If you could have a 24-hour romantic fling with anyone you wanted, anywhere you wanted, where would you go, what would you do and with whom would you do it?

     If I could have a fling with anyone in the world, other than my husband it would be with Hugh Jackman, Omar Epps and Milo Ventimiglia on the white sands of Jamaica. They would all serve me while I lounged on a recliner. Milo would fan me with a large palm leaf, Omar would feed me exotic fruits, and Hugh would rub my feet and speak to me in that lovely accent of his. No sex need be involved, after all three gorgeous guys woshipping at one’s feet can be pretty arousing.

Tell us about your upcoming release and what you hope readers will enjoy about it.
     My upcoming release is called WEDDING STUD. It’s a quickie in the Naughty Nuptials series about a woman who, after losing her boyfriend to her cousin and receiving an invitation to their wedding, resorts to hiring a date through an escort service to save face. She ends up with far more than she bargained for when it turns out her date is a vampire. What I hope the readers will enjoy about this story is the is way the hero makes the heorine, who’s understandably suffering self-esteem issues after receiving such a blow from her relative and the man she thought she loved.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?
     I’m addicted to the shows Heroes and Ugly Betty. And when I’m not enthralled in those programs, I enjoy driving my husband insane with my need to blast boy-band music, spending time with my family and friends, making crafts, cooking, baking, and implementing my plan to prove once and for all that Soylent Green really is people.

What do you like about where you live?
     The cheese steaks and learning that “youse guys” is apparently proper English.

If you could have one special super or magical power, what would it be?
     What? Do you mean I don’t already have super powers? Damn, there goes my plans for world domination.

What’s your favorite smell?
     Baked goods fresh out of the oven

What makes a man sexy?
     A good dental plan, and a sense of humor.

What’s the most interesting thing you’ve ever done?
     I learned how to break dance from watching Breakin’ and Breakin’ 2 Electric Boogaloo. Turbo and Ozone are my heroes.

What else would you like readers to know about you or your work?
     They can expect a hot read, but also characters they can relate to.

Jenna Castille
Magic of Three

Tell us about your most erotic romantic fantasy. If you could have a 24-hour romantic fling with anyone you wanted, anywhere you wanted, where would you go, what would you do and with whom would you do it?

     First, all the Vin Diesel as Riddick, though fantasies aside, it would have to be with my husband. I’d love to go to a tropical paradise. One of those deserted islands with a luxury hut, none of that Gilligan’s Island roughing it. We’d be completely alone but all our needs would be catered to. Sun and sand. Warm ocean water and pristine beaches. All the pineapple, pina coladas and tequila sunrises one woman can eat and drink. No responsibilities. Just the two of us, alone. A chance to enjoy each other without anything else getting in the way. That and we’d screw like bunnies <g>.

Tell us about your upcoming release and what you hope readers will enjoy about it.
     If you like your Romantica mixed with a dash of paranormal danger, a smidge of love that crosses lifetimes, and a little m/m action with your ménage, MAGIC OF THREE the read for you.

     Visionary Julian wants to be able to sleep peacefully wrapped in his lover’s arms, without being bombarded by images of a past lives he doesn’t want to remember and a future that terrifies him. His gift of vision brought Tim into his life but the price is high. No matter how strong their love and powers are, he and Tim cannot hold back hell alone. Not without finding their Third.

     Empath Timothy loved Julian the first moment he set eyes on him—destiny be damned. He understands feelings and his feelings are wrapped up in Julian. But even he realizes something is missing, something essential. When he first sees Lisa Harrison, he knows she’s the one Julian is looking for. Their Third. He feels the attraction drawing them together, lust and magic merging. But he fears what her response will be to their not-so-conventional desires. He doesn’t even want to think about what her reaction will be when faced with her role in stopping the imminent apocalypse.

     After years of struggle, Lisa is content with her life. She’s finally recovered from a messy divorce and has made a name for herself as a Las Vegas restaurateur. The last thing she wants is a complication, especially the kind that Julian and Timothy represent to her libido. And the whole reincarnated defenders of the world against a demon horde thing? Get real.

     Lisa is fascinated by the two men’s attraction to her. But who would believe in past lives and the power to keep hell at bay? Julian and Tim want to save the world, but how will adding someone else to their lives effect their relationship? Can these three people find trust and love enough to form a physical bond that can hold the gates of hell closed?

What do you like to do when you’re not working?
     It’s usually the family thing for me. But if I get an hour or so to myself, I like to take a long, hot bubble bath with a good book and a glass of red wine. Boring but ever-so satisfying.

What do you like about where you live?
     Hey. It’s Las Vegas. What’s not to like? I live where most of the human population wants to come and let their hair down. Just watching them act in ways that would shock their friends at home can be a blast. In a one-block stretch, you can people-watch a group who looks like they just stepped out of Fashion Week and another group that looks like they were rejected from Ripley’s for being too unbelievable.

     But I guess what I love most is the fact that no matter when or where you are or what you like to do, there’s something here for you. It can be three o’clock Thursday morning and there’s fun to be had. Las Vegas is an ever-changing chameleon, so boredom is practically impossible. Doesn’t matter if you like Broadway musicals or a bump-and-grind striptease; we’ve got it.

If you could have one special super or magical power, what would it be?
     Choices, choices. I love superheroes with the whole fire thing going on but I’d pick telekinesis. Just think about it. You forgot to vacuum and relatives are coming over. Boom, the vacuum’s doing all the work. Your child is chasing a ball into traffic. No need to scream. Zap, she’s flying through the air back to you. And can you imagine what you could do during sex? Talk about blowing your partner’s mind.

     The only down side is that everyone would be bugging you to get them things from the kitchen.

What’s your favorite smell?
     Guy smell or girly? For a girly smell, I love the smell of freshly baked cookies. It’s comforting and reminds me of home. The guy smell will always be Avatar. It’s the cologne my husband wears. I love stealing his shirts and wearing them when he’s not home, especially if I can smell that crisp scent on them.

What makes a man sexy?
     Personality. Granted, the package needs to be nice <g>, but if the man inside isn’t, it’s a complete turn-off for me. I like a man with a sense of humor to match his sense of adventure. Throw in some loyalty and deep-rooted honor and I’m completely hooked.

What’s the most interesting thing you’ve ever done?
     Besides spending all my spare time writing about romance and sex? Well, I’m not the type to go skydiving or white-water rafting. I’ve got too much faith in the power of gravity and not enough in my swimming. How about the time I got a little tipsy and danced Coyote Ugly-style at one of our local bars? Or maybe it was when I got to hold the Olympic torch as they ran it cross country in the 1980’s? How about getting on stage at college and singing Columbia’s part in the Time Warp? I’ve got this weird talent for being at the right place at the right time. Hey, maybe there’s a story idea in there.