Safe with a Stranger

Hello all! Well, it seems summer is upon us, and what better time to turn up the heat, right? Here in Florida, I think that the temperature has climbed to a steady 90-91 degrees everyday now. The water at the beach is like bath water!

In terms of keeping it hot and steamy, our featured author this week, Linda Conrad, brings us a story involving a very strong Texan Ranger. Josh Ryan is an ex-soldier with a mission: to help Clare, a single mom on the run with her son, from two dangerous men. As Clare's son begins to look to Josh like he is an important figure in his life, Josh gets too close and makes Clare more of a target making him have to do something so difficult and let her go, when love and passion are taking over his manly, ex-soldier nature...


It is a story involving a woman and baby on the run, some awesome sex scenes, and even a little witchcraft? Wow! And Linda claims that Josh Ryan is one of the best heroes she as ever written. If you think Safe with a Stranger sounds interesting, you should check out this book trailer for it! You know you'll want to catch this first in the series!



Linda writes for Harlequin-Silhouette books, and has had many of her novels translated into over 16 languages and sold in over 22 countries. How impressive! A writer of short contemporary romance, Linda's sensual characters and passionate stories from the heart have earned her a plethora of awards, including the 2008 Write Touch Readers award. Another interesting tidbit is that she is a Florida native. Just like me! If you want to read more about Linda, check out her BYS bio here.



Keep posting those comments, and asking questions, because Linda will be on here to do so..making it fun and interesting for everyone! And you can be the lucky one to receive a signed copy of Safe with a Stanger!

So, my question this week is going to be pretty simple. How do you all feel about men from Texas? :)

I'll see you all later..enjoy the heat..Between Your Sheets!

Ghost Moon

Hello everyone! I hope May has been a good month for all so far. I know it has been keeping me busier than ever, but I do find my time to go and enjoy a lazy day on the beach, as the weather could not be any better to find time to enjoy the sunshine.

So, as you have been waiting, our featured author for this week is the lovely Rebecca York. I was so glad to meet her at RT in Pittsburgh, and I am so honored to let you know of her current release, Ghost Moon This book happens to be the next one in York's popular Moon series. The story's heroine, Quinn, has come from a parallel universe to save a friend's life and comes in contact with a phantom named Caleb Marshall who has remained on Earth to avenge his death. The two grow deeply fond of each other, but Quinn has deep fears that he will try to harm her friends, until he acquires the body of a murder victim and the real fight is turned into something different, now dealing with the U.S. Government.

Believe it or not, York got her start acting out her romantic suspense stories with her friends with a cast of dolls. The imaginations was there, but the idea of being able to become an author wasn't because she could not spell. But with a little help of technology, and her husband, Norman Glick, she made her dreams come true. York, an award-winning and best-selling author, has written over 115 books. She has been a best-seller for New York Times, USA Today, and Publisher's Weekly, as well as an award recipient of many awards including two Rita finalist books. To read more about her bio, check it out here.




Now, I was lucky enough to get some other interesting stuff from Rebecca York, myself, so for your reading pleasure, here you go:

The Roots of Paranormal Romantic Suspense

I write paranormal romantic suspense, but recently, when I was preparing a talk on the horror gene, I realized that the roots of my books reaches all the way back to the dawn of time. One of the ways the shaman of an ancient tribe maintained power over his people was to protect them from the scary creatures who roamed the night. In those ancient monsters are the roots of today’s literary vampires, werewolves, demons, ghosts, and all the other beasts who fill the paranormal universe.

Today they’ve morphed into the heroes of our books. In my Berkley Moon series, for example, I’m writing about a family of very sexy alpha males–who happen to be werewolves. My first werewolf was Ross Marshal in KILLING MOON, and only the right woman could help him make peace with the wolf side of his being.

In my latest book, GHOST MOON, Ross is the one who organizes the family to fight a terrorist threat against the U. S. government. And he’s also the wolf who’s secure enough to reaches out to my hero, Caleb Marshal, a ghost who was killed by Ross’s great grandfather.

In the past, shape-shifters, vampires and demons were almost always the bad guys. It was like a cowboy movie where we knew that bad guys had black hats and the good guys had white hats. But modern paranormal heroes have blurred the lines between the good guys and the bad guys. My werewolves may be the heroes of my books, but you never know when their savage side will emerge. Caleb wants to rip out the throat of the man who killed him. Since he’s seventy-five years too late to do that, he’ll go after the guy’s grandsons instead.

Is that edge of danger and unpredictability part of the appeal of the shape-shifter? The realization that you never know what’s going to happen. And the knowledge that these are guys who live outside the bounds of civilization. Often they can blend into society, but you never know when they’re going to rip off that clothing and expose the animal side of their nature. And when they do–watch out. Because anything can happen.

Well, of course you know that if you comment on the blog you will have a chance to win a signed copy of New Moon, another book in the series. And, you should respond to my question of the week...just to make your day a little more fun!

What would you do if a ghost lived in your house and started to like you, want to date you, etc.? And this is a really, REALLY handsome ghost. Would you have a secret affair with him?

Until next time, enjoy the time Between Your Sheets!

Romantic Times Convention 2008- Pittsburgh, PA

From embarrassing moments to star-struck events, the Romantic Times Convention, aka RT, was full of a little bit of something for everybody. I have to say that it was quite the eye-opening experience for me. Authors running around promoting their newest releases, cover models in the elevators making all of the ladies swoon(and trying to get their votes for the Mr. Romance Competition!), film-makers documenting the chaos, and readers/fans taking in as much as possible in the four days of absolute mischief, fun and networking.

Having been an RT virgin, my experiences by themselves would be enough to talk about in like four or five different blogs, but I would rather give you a glimpse of what I captured that happened to other people throughout the years of RT( as this was the 25th Anniversary), and recap some highlights from this RT, as seen from a quiet eye.

Of course, the table for Between Your Sheets did an amazing job with passing out flyers for the Authors Between Your Sheets Quest where people did a scavenger hunt to get the author's there to sign it, and then in a few weeks get to do another one online where readers will be notified in the Hot Sheet. Also, the big hit was the raffle to win a Night of Romance with Jason Santiago, Mr. Romance 2007. Some women bought 4 or 5 tickets…it was a great success to raise money ($1,000 raised) for the S.O.S (Support Our Soldiers) foundation started by Kathryn Faulk.



Mr. Romance 2008 was a somewhat close call with some really great contestants...but our winner happened to be the one that Between Your Sheets along with Christine Feehan was sponsoring! The very sweet and hot Chris Winters took the title or Mr. Romance, and he did it with such style, I must say.







People really knew how to dress up as there were many, MANY parties to attend. I would have to say that my favorite was the Vampire Ball, but the Faery Ball was quite impressive. Oh, and the first night, everyone looked quite 20's Golden Era Hollywood-glam. It was quite the site to see so many people, very into dressing up!



With all the fun parties and time to network, we can't forget all the wonderful authors that made their presence known at this event. Many of our own hosted authors on Between Your Sheets made it to Pittsburgh, and here is the list:

Rebecca York
CH Admirand
Brenda Williamson
Kathy Caskie
Sophia Nash
Vivi Anna
Barry Eisler
Heather Graham
Jennifer St. Giles
Anna DeStefano
Marcia Colette

It was great to have these authors active to sign books for their fans, talk to aspiring authors, lead workshops, and just kick-back to enjoy themselves in an atmosphere which came about because of their passion and love for writing.

And all I now have to say: Fabio. Adrian Paul. That is all.



Now, I'll leave you all with the probably what you have been waiting for. Most memorable moments at an RT! Have fun reading them...and if you want to see more pictures from RT, or know more about the convention be sure to check out www.RomanticTimes.com.

1999 Toronto RT- "During the book fair, I was standing at Jason Love's booth, looking at his photos, and hoping to get a signed photo, I said, 'but it isn't as good as the real thing'. There he was, standing right behind me. I instantly turned beet red, and my friend said, 'com' on, get a picture with him.' I wanted to put my foot in my mouth." - D.N.

1994 Nashville RT- "There was a Camelot theme, and the three Bartling brothers were dressed as three gods. They all came and surrounding me to get a picture. I scrunched in and knew that I turned red because I 'felt the pressure'. My mind was not on the picture, because I knew the oldest Bartling brother had been in playboy, all nude... I knew what to expect! All I could see was three penises surrounding me!" (nicknamed by others the "Three P Story") -Ellen Wulf

1999 Toronto RT- "This was when they had the very first Vampire Ball. The costumes were phenomenal, and the people were so wonderful because they were all costumed out. It was incredible." -Carol Linton

2008 Pittsburgh RT- "I like that there is a small number of men in a room full of women. And they all act like they know me. There is a lack of walls, and it makes it an open, friendly, and not intimidating atmosphere." - Hank Shiftman

2008 Pittsburgh RT- "Cover models make me sweat!" -Kate Poole
(and then cover model Chris Howell walks right behind her to say hi immediately after she said this. Yes, it made her red.)

2008 Pittsburgh RT- "I was rehearsing for the presentation for Helen Rosburg's Western luncheon, and I was playing an Indian. I had to squeeze into these pants that were way too small for me, and as I rehearsed, they ended up ripping in the crotch area. As time went on, they said to keep going, and the pants got worse and were just hanging off of me, not holding anything in like pants should do. So Connie Perry decides to have me sit down while she sews them up standing on the edge of the stage while she was eye level with my ***** …with the pants still on me! I was scared she was going to stick me with a needle, it was not the most comfortable situation!" - while everyone else enjoyed a good laugh. Jason Santiago

And now, the ladies of Between Your Sheets... thanks for reading!



***all photos, with exception of two, shot by photographer Annette Batista***

Between Your Sheets would love to hear some of your RT memories or comments.
Do Tell!

Marrying the Boss

Greetings all! It is a great week upon us as the Romantic Times Convention in Pittsburgh will be taking place. I know I am excited to have a chance to go and add an interesting, new experience to my list of life accomplishments.

Ok, but now let's put the focus on our author of the week- Megan Kelly. Kelly's release this month titled Marrying the Boss will show you just how much more people can gain out of competition. Adopted son of a powerful Chicago family, Mark Collins, is trying to prove himself that he should gain the company, but soon wants more to gain the love of Leanne Fairbanks, the illegitimate granddaughter, who is just as eager to prove herself and gain the company. Sounds like a steamy romance will be what truly sparks the interest in these two go-getters!



Kelly began her love for Harlequin Romance as a teenager, and after years and years of writing, sold to American Harlequin Romance in 2007. She resides in the Midwest with her husband and two children, and is well-known at her local bookstore and library. To find out more about Megan Kelly, check out her website. Or, post to ask her questions..and you know the deal when you post...a signed copy of this release could be yours in just a couple weeks.. :)

So, for those going to the Romantic Times Convention, have a fabulous time..I hope to see you there! I will now close with my question for you all:

What do you think of dating of the workplace? Should an employee be able to date his/her boss? As someone who has dated co-workers before, I can't wait to see everyone's responses to this!

So everyone get a copy of Marrying the Boss..and enjoy your time to read and relax, Between Your Sheets!

Silken Shadows

Well...thanks for being patient..I am back with this week's featured author: Jennifer St. Giles.

Her new release, Silken Shadows delves into the world of the supernatural as our heroine,psychic Gemini Andrews, follows Captain Deverell Jansen on his search for a vicious killer. He must learn to trust in the love that Gemini is so certain of, to save her and himself, from an impending doom.

If you think this book sounds suspenseful and exciting, you really should check out this awesome booktrailer!





Giles has been a member of GRW and and RWA since 1994. Her road to becoming a published author has won her many awards including The Maggie Award. To read more about Giles, check out her BYS bio.

Here is some words directly from this fabulous author herself about Silken Shadows:

Silken Shadows was a lot of fun to write because I'd been able to evolve the heroine through two books before she got to tell her story. Gemini is the youngest of the three Andrews sisters and she watched as both Cassie and Andre fell in love with Sean and Alex Killdaren. During Cassie and Andre's romances, Gemini imagined herself attracted to several titled gentlemen, but none quite met up to snuff. It wasn't until she met the dark "devil" captain of her brother-in-law's ship did she truly meet a man worth his measure, Deverell Jansen. I think Gemini is the most daring of all of my historical heroines. Not only in her sense of adventure (she stows away on a ship), but in her courage to face an evil that could cost her soul, and in her sensual response to Deverell's killer kisses. I was also extremely thankful to be able to write Silken Shadows. I had major surgery done in Novemeber of that year, surgery that if anything went wrong the resulting problems would have been catastrophic. I was supposed to write Silken Shadows before going into surgery and wasn't able to. So making it through the surgery and being able to write so well after it was truly a wonderful blessing for me.

Remember to leave comments, so you can win a signed copy of one of her books! Also, you are going to want to see what she has to say, because she is excited to be involved, so you can ask her questions about any of her novels, her life in Atlanta, etc.

Happy April, everyone...and enjoy Silken Shadows while you enjoy your peaceful time, Between Your Sheets!

P.S.

Almost forgot my question:

How would you react if on the news you heard of a serial killer committing murders from the grave?

Quick Intermission

Hey everyone!

Just wanted to say happy Friday and let you know that the next featured author blog is coming very soon..don't worry, I haven't gone anywhere!

By the ways...is anyone going to the RT convention in a few weeks? I shall be a virgin to this great event..If you have anything fun or interesting to tell me about it, I would love to hear!

Hope everyone has been having a great week.

Peace and Light,

~Marla

Seducing the Saint

Hey everyone! Happy St. Patrick's Day!




So get excited, because the new release for this week's featured author...will not even be made available until March 19th! That's right, Melissa Schroeder will be releasing her newest page-turner, Seducing the Saint this week. What better than to curl up by your fire place or lie out at the warm beach than with this smoldering novel about reunited love and an affair that can land them in a dangerous situation. Brady St. James, also known as the Saint, is known for his skills and knowledge which make the woman, Libby, return after six years to ask for his help and be by his side. They find that their love ignites some steamy passion and could bring the two to live happily ever-after, but that is, if they escape getting killed in the process...

If you want to know more about the dangerous affair, check out this book video:





Schroeder's love for romance novels began after her first Linda Howard book. As someone who believes that her mind has been warped by years of watching Monty Python, and her strange family, this novelist believes that her calling was to write romance novels with a comic edge. She has now become quite an accomplished writer with close to 20 short stories, novellas, and novels released. To read more about this very creative and interesting author, check out her BYS biography.

I'll be sure to let you know what the prize signed book is this week in the next day or so. Now comes my favorite part...my question of the week!!

Now, as you guys may have read in Schroeder's bio, she was born in a military hospital, grew up as a military brat, and vowing never to marry a person in the military,has, and now has some military brats of her own. If you have any affiliation with military, or if you did, what would you do if you were stationed somewhere far from everything you are used to?