RELEASE DAY EVENT and GIVEAWAY: HARD AS YOU CAN by LAURA KAYE

Congratulations to Laura Kaye on her newest release, Hard As You Can. To celebrate, I'm sharing and excerpt and giveaway.

 

 

Laura will also be hosting a Facebook party for HARD AS YOU CAN on 2/25 from 12-9pm EST Join here: https://www.facebook.com/events/416084181828110

Series: Hard Ink #2

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: 2/25/14

Five dishonored soldiers.
Former Special Forces.
One last mission.
These are the men of Hard Ink.

Ever since hard-bodied, drop-dead-charming Shane McCallan strolled into the dance club where Crystal Dean works, he’s shown a knack for getting beneath her defenses. For her little sister’s sake, Crystal can’t get too close. Until her job and Shane’s mission intersect, and he reveals talents that go deeper than she could have guessed.

Shane would never turn his back on a friend in need, especially a former Special Forces teammate running a dangerous, off-the-books operation. Nor can he walk away from Crystal. The gorgeous waitress is hiding secrets she doesn't want him to uncover. Too bad. He’s exactly the man she needs to protect her sister, her life, and her heart. All he has to do is convince her that when something feels this good, you hold on as hard as you can—and never let go.

 

 

 

 

It’s release day! And I’m so excited to share Hard As You Can, the second book in the Hard Ink series, with all of you here today! Hard As You Can follows the surviving members of a disgraced Army Special Forces team as they fight to regain their stolen honor, and finds their investigation crossing paths with a waitress willing to do whatever it takes to stay alive and protect her younger sister. For Shane McCallan, saving Crystal Dean is a mission he refuses to turn down.

Today, I’ve got a super sexy scene to share with you, one that was a total surprise to me as I was writing it! I hope you enjoy this peek at the first time Shane and Crystal find themselves alone with each other:

“Do you like to dance, Crystal?” Shane asked in a low voice.

“Uh, what? Why?”

His smile was crooked, playful. “ ’Cause dancing’s something people do when they’re getting to know each other.”

“Really?” Maybe where he was from. Then again, she worked in a strip club. Dancing was something people did to make money. So, okay, maybe her view of dancing was a bit jaded.

“Absolutely. Ask anybody.” The song faded away, followed by the announcement of a Southern rock station’s call sign. A new song started, and Shane turned to her with a smile. “Dance with me.”

Crystal peered up at him without the slightest idea how to respond. Because her body was saying hell, yes!, while her brain was screaming bad idea, really, really bad idea.

He stepped closer, arms raised, expression full of all kinds of invitation.

The next thing she knew, her right hand was in his and her left had slipped around his neck. Ohmigod, ohmigod, ohmigod, ran over and over in her mind. What am I doing? But then he tucked her hand against his chest and tugged her against him with the hand that settled at her lower back. And the closeness stole her breath.

He moved them to the beat of the song, a slow, sexy, bluesy number she didn’t know but would never forget. Some songs carried memories like the images were imprinted upon the very lyrics themselves, and she had no doubt this would be one of them.

All of a sudden, the air in the room felt ten degrees warmer. As they swayed to the beat, Shane’s body pressed against hers from thighs to chest. With every step and move and turn, Crystal’s breasts rubbed against the hard plane of his chest. Strong hands held and guided her body, making her want to feel them explore her everywhere. Arousal rose like a waking dragon inside her. Cautious. Curious. Dangerous.

This was wrong and stupid on so many levels. But, scary as it was, it felt so freaking good that she couldn’t force herself to pull away. One song. It’s just a dance. Just a dance just a dance just a dance.

And, holy crap, she wasn’t the only one aroused.

Against her belly, Shane hardened.

Crystal sucked in a breath, and he pressed his lips close to her ear. “We’re just dancing here. That’s all. I promise,” he said. But the adrenaline was already in her blood, setting her to a trembling she couldn’t control. Part curious interest and part instinctive fear. “Sshh,” he almost cooed. “Just dancing.”

The echo of her own thoughts from a moment before allowed her to draw a breath that almost calmed. They turned and swayed to the music, moving closer, pressing tighter, Shane’s lips so close to her face that she could feel his breath shudder across her cheekbone.

He was a fire she had no business playing with. She knew that even as she leaned her face against his . . . and got exactly what she’d hoped for.

He kissed her.

Just a brush of his lips against her cheek, but a kiss all the same.

And as much as it made her head spin, it was the little catch of breath in the back of his throat that sent a jolt of electricity down her spine to settle low in her belly. Light as a feather, he caressed her cheek, her temple, her ear with his lips. With him, always such gentleness, so different from almost every other sexual experience she’d ever had. It made her feel safe to allow this to continue.

 

Between them, his erection was firm, long, totally unyielding.

She shivered, caught between interest and fear, desire a river moving faster and faster inside her. The whole experience was a revelation—that her body had the capacity to respond this way, that a person existed who could pull these reactions from her.

For a moment, she gave herself over to the dizzying sensations. In her mind’s eye, she saw them undressing, fumbling their way back the hall, falling naked and wanting on the bed. What would it be like, just once, to take something that she wanted without worrying about anyone else, without being afraid? Just one wild, secret night, all for her? What would Shane be like?

 

So that’s Shane and Crystal for you! Did you have a favorite line? Thanks for reading! ~Laura

Read an Extended Excerpt of Book 1, Hard As It Gets

 

 

 

Hard Ink Series
 

 

 

(cover lead to GoodReads)

 

 

My review Hard As It Gets

 

 

Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble  | iTunes | Kobo

 

 

 

GIVEAWAY

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

About the author

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

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REVIEW: HARD AS YOU CAN by LAURA KAYE

Series: Hard Ink #2

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: 2/25/14
Format: eARC
Pages: 384
Source: Publisher
Rating: 3.5 stars

Five dishonored soldiers.
Former Special Forces.
One last mission.
These are the men of Hard Ink.

Ever since hard-bodied, drop-dead-charming Shane McCallan strolled into the dance club where Crystal Dean works, he’s shown a knack for getting beneath her defenses. For her little sister’s sake, Crystal can’t get too close. Until her job and Shane’s mission intersect, and he reveals talents that go deeper than she could have guessed.

Shane would never turn his back on a friend in need, especially a former Special Forces teammate running a dangerous, off-the-books operation. Nor can he walk away from Crystal. The gorgeous waitress is hiding secrets she doesn't want him to uncover. Too bad. He’s exactly the man she needs to protect her sister, her life, and her heart. All he has to do is convince her that when something feels this good, you hold on as hard as you can—and never let go.

 

I'm a big fan of Laura Kaye's; Hard As It Gets was one of my most highly-anticipated books of 2013. I adored Nick, and I liked Becca. Two people stole the story for me: Jeremy Rixey (this dude needs a story!) and Shane McCallan. Shane was such a fun addition to the Hard Ink gang. His presence was commanding. So with that, it is no shocker that I was very excited for this book.

 

Hard As You Can picked up immediately where book one left off. There's a recap of Shane and Crystal's first run-in, then the story takes off from there. The story continues with the Hard Ink gang's efforts to infiltrate the Church organization, and learn how they are connected with Becca and Charlie's father, specifically, his betrayal.

 

Now, back to Shane...he delivered in this story. So hard. He was still the same smartass, badass, sexy man I was hoping to find in Hard As You Can, and I loved that. I also really liked this book's heroine, Crystal. Her backstory was very brutal, very difficult to imagine enduring. Crystal's love and care for her sister was admirable. I liked that she was smart, biding her time to make the right moves.

 

All the interactions and dialogue in Hard As You Can was fun. The Hard Ink crew has a fun dynamic that portrays the seriousness of their situation, but also a lot of joking and making fun at one another's expense. That was by far my favorite part of the story.

 

There were a couple of areas that I struggled with. One, the cast of characters in the story is large. I like the group and the dynamic, but with so many significant characters, I did have a hard time keeping everyone straight. Another thing was the action/terminology. I won't say this is an issue with the book, because I do think it shows Kaye is dedicated to accuracy. It's just me. I didn't follow a lot, or I had to reread to be sure I knew who was doing what where and why. And to that end, it didn't feel there was any real progression with the investigation.

 

The last area I struggled with was the romance. Now with this being romantic suspense, you're going to typically have a fast-paced romance due to heightened conditions. You're in danger, you may die, so of course, you're going to latch onto someone, especially if they're insanely attractive. Shane and Crystal were most certainly in this situation, but I'm not sure that I could necessarily buy the declarations of love with them having known each other for days, and spending very little of that time actually getting to know each other (likes/dislikes/hopes/fears,etc).  I'm definitely on board for the physical, that I get. Just, not so much the love.

 

Overall, I liked Hard As You Can. I'm starting to get the sense that Romantic Suspense is not my genre of choice. I am, as always, a big fan of Laura Kaye's work, and will continue the Hard Ink series.

 

Favorite Quote:

  "God, I can't get rid of you." Exasperation had her throwing up her arms.
   "I specialize in pain in the ass, darlin'." He smiled, forcing himself to hear down the intensity.      
  "Well, congratulations, because you clearly graduated with honors."

 

 

 

Hard Ink Series
 

 

 

(cover lead to GoodReads)

 

 

My review Hard As It Gets

 

 

Purchase Links

 

Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble

 

 

 

 

About the author

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

 

 

 

 

 

 

HARD AS IT GETS BLOG TOUR by LAURA KAYE: REVIEW, GUEST POST AND GIVEAWAY

Welcome to The Bookish Babe's stop on the Hard As It Gets Blog Tour! As a big fan of Kaye's, I am excited to be a part of this event. My stop includes a review, guest post, and tour giveaway. Follow along for all the tour stops.

“Edgy, sexy, and full of suspense! A great read from a great new author!”

~J.R. Ward on Hard As It Gets

Series: Hard Ink #1

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: 11/26/13
Format: ARC
Source: Received from publisher for review
Rating: 4 stars

Tall, dark, and lethal...

Trouble just walked into Nicholas Rixey's tattoo parlor. Becca Merritt is warm, sexy, wholesome—pure catnip to a very jaded Nick. He's left his military life behind to become co-owner of Hard Ink Tattoo, but Becca is his ex-commander's daughter. Loyalty won't let him turn her away. Lust has plenty to do with it too.

With her brother presumed kidnapped, Becca needs Nick. She just wasn't expecting to want him so much. As their investigation turns into all-out war with an organized crime ring, only Nick can protect her. And only Becca can heal the scars no one else sees.

Desire is the easy part. Love is as hard as it gets. Good thing Nick is always up for a challenge...

As a huge fan of Laura Kaye, I've been anxiously waiting to read Hard As It Gets from the moment I heard about it. Knowing Kaye's ability to bring sexy and exciting stories, combined with that ridiculously hot cover, it was almost a sure thing that I would dig this book.

My love for Laura Kaye aside, Hard As It Gets has a couple of really good things going for it, beginning with a compelling story. The story is led by Nick Rixby and Becca Merritt. Becca is a nurse, and devoted sister. Having tragically lost her mother and older brother years ago, she's also dealt with recently losing her father in Afghanistan. When her other brother, Charlie, goes missing, Becca cannot bear the thought of losing the only remaining member of her family. It appears Charlie's
disappearance is tied in some way to their father's time in Afghanistan, which leads her to Nick Rixby. Nick is still coming to terms with the tragedy that befell his unit in Afghanistan. An unbelievable betrayal killed half the group, and led to the rest being treated horribly by the Army.
Nick has since been rebuilding a life back at home, at Hard Ink. When Becca comes to him for help, Nick can't understand why the daughter of his betrayer needs help. Unable to let her go, though, the two set out to find her brother and uncover the ties between her father and Nick's group.

Nick and Becca were complicated and layered characters. I was a bit worried that Nick's feelings about Becca's dad would lead to a lot of turmoil and angst, but that wasn't the case at all. I really appreciate that Kaye was able to have these complications, without making the fallout melodramatic. Nick and Becca were very pragmatic about the issues at hand, realistic about their situation, and thoughtful with their actions. I cannot express how nice it is to read about characters who had these extreme situations and emotions, but dealt with them in such a mature manner. That's not to say that their emotions didn't sometimes get away from them, but it was in such a realistic manner, and not overly contrived.

But not only did I really like the characterization of Becca and Nick, but all of the characters in Hard As It Gets. I have to say, my very favorite character was Nick's brother, Jeremy. He is the owner of Hard Ink, and the lead tattoo artist. He was just a really cool, fun character who gave relief to the tension. I loved that he wore great t-shirts, and pushed Nick when he needed it. Also, Nick's Special Forces guys. Like most, I really love a good story about soldiers, but I also love a good story about a team. These guys came in a really helped round out the plot, helping Nick and Becca. Shane was snarky and fun, and seemed to really resonate the most. This has me really excited for his book, Hard As You Can.

What's interesting about Hard As It Gets is that the plotline dealing with Charlie's abduction and their father's betrayal is not totally wrapped up. There is enough resolution to satisfy me -particularly with Nick and Becca- but I also want more. I want to know exactly who is behind everything and how it will all go down. I want more Hard Ink. As expected, Laura Kaye has delivered another sexy, exciting read.



Favorite Quotes:

  "I am wound too tight, Becca. Do you understand? In about ten seconds, I'm going to be all over you. And I'm not going to be able to go slow. It's gonna be hard and fast and rough."
  He meant it as a warning, but Becca heard it as an engraved invitation on fine lined paper. That was a party she sooo wanted to attend.   ~eARC, 35%


  Sometimes you plodded through life with nothing changing from one month to the next no matter how much you yearned for a revolution to erupt beneath your feet. And sometimes your whole world imploded and rebuilt itself in a matter of seconds. In the past, those instantaneous changes had almost always ignited with pain and loss.
  Not this time.    ~eARC, 78%

The Hard Ink Series

 

Purchase Hard As It Gets at:

Amazon  |  Amazon UK  |   Barnes & Noble  |  Book Depository  |  iTunes


Read Chapter 1 of Hard As It Gets

Introducing Nick and Becca from Hard As It Gets

I am absolutely thrilled to be celebrating the release of my sexy contemporary romance, Hard As It Gets, the first book in my new Hard Ink series. If you like sexy, gritty contemporaries, military heroes and themes, and even a little suspense, Hard As It Gets is the perfect book for you! *grins* 

Today, I’d like to introduce you to Nick Rixey and Becca Merritt, the hero and heroine of Hard As It Gets. They just sizzled together on the page and I really enjoyed writing them. I hope you love them, too! So, without further ado, please meet Hard As It Gets’s Nick and Becca:

MEET HERO NICK RIXEY:

Becca’s first impression of Nick: 

“I’m Nick Rixey. Who wants to know?”

  Becca jumped at the deep sound of the man’s voice. Geez. How long had he been standing there? And, big as he was, how had she not heard him approach? It was like he’d materialized out of thin air.

  The surprise of his appearance pounded adrenaline through her system. Her racing pulse had absolutely nothing to do with the bulge of his impressive biceps straining the sleeves of his black T-shirt, the hints of ink just visible on his upper arms, nor with his harsh yet darkly handsome face. And definitely not with the way his jeans hung on those lean hips. Right. Definitely not.

  Given who her father was, or had been, this was the type of man she’d expected to find at the end of Charlie’s cryptic note. His dark hair was a little on the long side, but the hard edges and leashed strength of his body clearly read ex-military.

 Nick’s Job: Process Server, Part-time Tattoo Artist

 3 Words that Describe Nick: Tortured, Alpha, Heroic

 3 Things he Loves about Heroine Becca Merritt: Her courage, her compassion, the way she takes away his hurt

 Who could play Nick if the book was made into a movie? Tyler Hoechlin hung above my desk for months (in fact, he just may still be there!), so he’s got the look for sure!

MEET HEROINE BECCA MERRITT:

 Nick’s first impression of Becca:

Becca Merritt was the all-American girl personified, with her fierce blue eyes and wavy hair the rich color of honey. Bet she tastes as sweet, too. And, damn, that body. It was all he’d been able to do not to gawk at the curves her fitted T-shirt hugged, or trace his eyes over the lace just visible through the thin cotton. It was like the sun had strolled through their front door, casting heat and light all over him. Only the haunted dark circles under her eyes ruined the analogy.

 Becca’s Job: ER nurse

3 Words that Describe Becca: Loyal, Compassionate, Strong

3 Things she Loves about Hero Nick Rixey: His intensity (in everything), his strength, his willingness to help her and her brother

Who could play Becca if the book was made into a movie? With her wholesome prettiness, Blake Lively would make a good Becca Merritt!

Do you have a question for either of the characters or their author lady? Ask away and we’d all be happy to chat!

Thanks for reading!

~ Laura


** Holy Frack. My friend introduced me to Tyler Hoechlin months ago, and all I can say is YES!**


Giveaway
Two (2) Kindle Paperwhite 3G e-readers
Five (5) print copies of HARD AS IT GETS, provided by the publisher

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

Terms & Conditions
The Kindle Paperwhite 3G giveaway is international unless excluded. If your country is not on the list that Amazon delivers to, you will not be eligible win this prize.
Author Laura Kaye is not responsible for damage to the Kindle in transit. All issues regarding this must be addressed to Amazon.
All accessories for the Kindle Paperwhite 3G must be purchased by the winner – the prize is the Kindle Paperwhite 3G only.
Entrants must be 18 or over

About Laura Kaye:

 Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.



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TEASER TUESDAY ~ HARD AS IT GETS by LAURA KAYE

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along, just do as following:


·Grab your current read
·Open to a random page
·Share two (2) "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
·Be careful not to include any spoilers so as not to ruin the book for others.


Make sure to share the title and the author so other TT participants can add the book to their TBR piles.

 

 

 

 

 

Series: Hard Ink #1

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Romantic Suspense

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: 11/26/13
 

 

Tall, dark, and lethal...

Trouble just walked into Nicholas Rixey's tattoo parlor. Becca Merritt is warm, sexy, wholesome—pure catnip to a very jaded Nick. He's left his military life behind to become co-owner of Hard Ink Tattoo, but Becca is his ex-commander's daughter. Loyalty won't let him turn her away. Lust has plenty to do with it too.

With her brother presumed kidnapped, Becca needs Nick. She just wasn't expecting to want him so much. As their investigation turns into all-out war with an organized crime ring, only Nick can protect her. And only Becca can heal the scars no one else sees.

Desire is the easy part. Love is as hard as it gets. Good thing Nick is always up for a challenge...

My Teaser ~

  "Okay, well, welcome to the Hard Ink Hotel," Jeremy said with a smile and a bowed flourish. "Stay as long as you like. I'll try not to walk around naked while you're here."
  "Thanks, I think."    ~eARC, 16%

So what do you think? This is the MC's brother and I think he's my favorite character. Be sure to let me know, and I will come check out your teaser!

WAITING ON WEDNESDAY: HARD AS YOU CAN

Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's WoW selection is...

 

 

Series: Hard Ink #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Romantic Suspense

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: 2/25/14
 

Ever since hard-bodied, drop-dead-charming Shane McCallan strolled into the dance club where Crystal Dean works, he’s shown a knack for getting beneath her defenses. For her little sister’s sake, Crystal can’t get too close. Until her job and Shane’s mission intersect, and he reveals talents that go deeper than she could have guessed.

Shane would never turn his back on a friend in need, especially a former Special Forces teammate running a dangerous, off-the-books operation. Nor can he walk away from Crystal. The gorgeous waitress is hiding secrets she doesn't want him to uncover. Too bad. He’s exactly the man she needs to protect her sister, her life, and her heart. All he has to do is convince her that when something feels this good, you hold on as hard as you can--and never let go.

 

Why I'm Waiting...

  Hello, sexy back tattoo! UNFFFF. This is a Laura Kaye book and that is all I need to know.

 

Preorder Hard As It Gets at:

Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Book Depository

 

HARD AS IT GETS RELEASE DAY EVENT!

I am so excited to be participating in the Hard As It Gets Release Day Event! I have a great interview with author Laura Kaye, along with the book info. You can follow all the events at Laura's website.

  Series: Hard Ink #1

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: 11/26/13
 

 

Tall, dark, and lethal...

Trouble just walked into Nicholas Rixey's tattoo parlor. Becca Merritt is warm, sexy, wholesome—pure catnip to a very jaded Nick. He's left his military life behind to become co-owner of Hard Ink Tattoo, but Becca is his ex-commander's daughter. Loyalty won't let him turn her away. Lust has plenty to do with it too.

With her brother presumed kidnapped, Becca needs Nick. She just wasn't expecting to want him so much. As their investigation turns into all-out war with an organized crime ring, only Nick can protect her. And only Becca can heal the scars no one else sees.

Desire is the easy part. Love is as hard as it gets. Good thing Nick is always up for a challenge...

Q&A WITH LAURA KAYE

HARD AS IT GETS is one steamy read! How did you first get into writing?

Thanks so much! And thanks for having me here! I’ve been a writer all my life. I’m a historian by training, so writing non-fiction was a part of my job for the fifteen years I worked as a college professor. But I started writing fiction in 2008 in kind of an unusual way. I hit my head on July 4, 2008. I didn’t think much of it that day, but soon after I realized I’d really hurt myself, and it turned out I had a minor traumatic brain injury. As I recovered, I was filled with an amazing urge to be creative, so I started taking guitar lessons (still not very good at that!) and wrote my first novel in 12 weeks (fortunately, I’m better at that LOL!). The experience of writing that first book was truly transformative. It was what I was supposed to be doing, so I revised that book until it sold and kept writing new ones. And I haven’t looked back since!

Why did you choose to write romance?

I had been an avid reader of paranormal romance for years at that point, so I wrote what I loved. But I also picked romance—unconsciously, I think—because to me it’s an incredibly hopeful genre. Romance stories are inherently stories about people who can’t find love or think they don’t deserve it who overcome the odds and find it in the end. In the years leading up to starting writing, I experienced a number of very hard personal losses, so writing in this genre was one way I worked through those issues.

 

What does “Hard Ink” refer to? What importance do tattoos play in your story?

Hard Ink is the name of the Rixey brothers’ tattoo shop in the Hard Ink series. Nick and Jeremy Rixey are co-owners, though Nick (the hero of book one, Hard As It Gets) prefers to be more of a silent partner, despite Jeremy’s efforts to put Nick’s artistic talents to work. In this series, tattoos are a way people remember, pay penance, or highlight what’s important to them. The act of creating permanent marks on skin has deep meaning to them. And the shop creates a gritty setting where diverse kinds of people meet and interact in the series. I really love it!

Describe Becca—what do you love most about her? And Nick?

I’d love to! Because I really loved writing these characters!

Becca Merritt is smart and strong and honest and protective. I really loved the way she was willing to stand up for those she loves, even against people and forces who might be stronger and even a little scary. There’s a scene in particular when she dresses down Nick’s Special Forces teammates after a fist fight where I was particularly cheering for her! LOL

Nick Rixey is, omg, so freaking hot, you guys! He’s brooding and tortured and honorable and when he falls he falls  so hard. I especially loved Nick’s mix of hard, alpha edges with his artistic side. When Nick shows Becca what her idea for a tattoo might look like on her skin, it’s just scorching!

What significance does the military play in the book?

Military themes are central to the whole Hard Ink series. The military isn’t just sexy window dressing nor is it just there to provide an intriguing backstory. The prior SF guys are this series are entirely defined by their military experience good and bad. It informs their identity, their sense of honor and duty, their view of the world, and of course gives them the skill set required to fight the battles they face in the series. The overall series mystery the characters are working to solve revolves around a military conspiracy in Afghanistan, so even though they’re out of the Army, the military themes are central.

If you could describe your book in a 140 character tweet, what would it be?

In #HardAsItGets, an ex-soldier joins forces w/his dead commander's daughter to regain his tarnished honor & save her brother from a gang

Is there a particular author or book that has influenced your writing?

There are a number of authors that have influenced me, but if I had to pick one it would be J.R. Ward. A lot of what I know about how to write sexy, authentic male point of view comes from reading her books. And I definitely learned the importance of a good bromance to a romance novel from her Black Dagger Brotherhood series, too. Given my ginormous fangirling, you can only imagine how flipping excited I was when this happened:

“Edgy, sexy, and full of suspense! A great read from a great new author!”

~J.R. Ward on Hard As It Gets

You guys, I bawled like a baby in the middle of a huge workshop put on by my publisher. For real. LOL

What advice would you give aspiring writers looking to get into the publishing industry?

Here’s my advice:

1) Write, write, write. You can’t revise what you haven’t written and you can’t sell what you haven’t written. And the psychological and emotional boost you’ll get from writing “The End” for the first time cannot be overestimated.

2) Revise, revise, revise. That first time you type “The End”? Yeah, you’re nowhere near done. Your book will need to be edited, by you, several times before you ever put it in front of an agent or editor. You get one shot with them, so don’t waste it by not showing them your very best and most polished work.

3) Find critique partners. And your mom, siblings, and best friend do not count (unless you’re really lucky, like me, and your best friend happens t also be a professional author). You need other aspiring writers in your genre who will give you honest but constructive feedback about how to improve your manuscript. Let them catch all the embarrassing goofs and plot holes you thought you caught before it gets to an agent or editor.

4) Want to be a professional, then act it. And by that I mean join the professional organization(s) of the genre in which you write. Through them you will find classes to help hone your craft, critique partner match-ups, networking opportunities, calls for submission, and other opportunities invaluable to breaking into publishing.

5) Don’t give up. You will hear way more no’s than yeses, particularly early in your writing career. Stick with it. Believe in yourself. Give yourself one day to wallow in the rejection and eat a bunch of chocolate and then get right back on the horse. If your first book doesn’t sell, chalk that up to learning and write a second.

What can fans of HARD AS IT GETS look forward to next?

I’m currently writing four series: two contemporary (Hard Ink, Heroes) and two paranormal (Hearts of the Anemoi, Vampire Warrior Kings). I’ll have books from all four of those releasing in 2014. My next release is Hard As You Can (Hard Ink #2) coming 2/25/14!

The Hard Ink Series

 

Preorder Hard As It Gets at:

Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Book Depository

 

 

 

About Laura Kaye: Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

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COVER REVEAL: HARD AS YOU CAN (HARD INK #2) by LAURA KAYE

Avon is proud to announce the publication of  Laura Kaye’s second book in her hot Hard Ink series, HARD AS YOU CAN (On Sale: February 25, 2014).

 

I am so, so excited to be participating in the cover reveal for Hard As You Can, by Laura Kaye. I am a huge fan of Kaye's and cannot wait to start this series.

Check it out...

 

  

 

 

Series: Hard Ink #2
Genre:Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Avon

Publication Date: 2/25/14


Ever since hard-bodied, drop-dead-charming Shane McCallan strolled into the dance club where Crystal Dean works, he’s shown a knack for getting beneath her defenses. For her little sister’s sake, Crystal can’t get too close. Until her job and Shane’s mission intersect, and he reveals talents that go deeper than she could have guessed.

Shane would never turn his back on a friend in need, especially a former Special Forces teammate running a dangerous, off-the-books operation. Nor can he walk away from Crystal. The gorgeous waitress is hiding secrets she doesn't want him to uncover. Too bad. He’s exactly the man she needs to protect her sister, her life, and her heart. All he has to do is convince her that when something feels this good, you hold on as hard as you can-and never let go.

 

 

 

Be sure to add Hard As it Gets and Hard As You Can to your to-read list!
 

 

 

Hard Ink Series

 

 

 

 

About Laura Kaye:
Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

 

 

 

 

 

 

BLOG TOUR: SOUTH OF SURRENDER by LAURA KAYE ~ REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY

Welcome to The Bookish Babe's stop on the South of Surrender Blog Tour!

You can follow the tour at Entangled in Romance. My stop includes a review, excerpt and blog tour giveaway.

 

Series: Hearts of the Anemoi #3
Category/Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Publication Date: 5/28/13
Format: eARC
Pages: 400
Source: Received from publisher for review

She’s the only one who can see through his golden boy façade to the broken god within…

Chrysander Notos, Supreme God of the South Wind and Summer, is on a mission: save Eurus from his death sentence and prove his troubled brother can be redeemed. But Eurus fights back, triggering vicious summer storms that threaten the mortal realm, dangerously drain Chrys, and earn the ire of the Olympic gods who ordered Eurus dead.

Laney Summerlyn refuses to give up her grandfather’s horse farm, despite her deteriorating vision. More than ever, she needs the organized routine of her life at Summerlyn Stables, until a ferocious storm brings an impossible—and beautiful—creature crashing down from the heavens.

Injured while fighting Eurus, Chrys finds himself at the mercy of a mortal woman whose compassion and acceptance he can’t resist. As they surrender to the passion flaring between them, immortal enemies close in, forcing Chrys to choose between his brother and the only woman who’s ever loved the real him.

I am a huge fan of Laura Kaye's, but had yet to read any of her paranormal books. I was very excited to have the opportunity to read South of Surrender, and I will confess that I haven't read the first two books in the series, though I own them. I think having read North of Need and West of Want would have made the experience even better, and knowing the characters like I do now, I am very anxious to go back and read them. But I can say, for me, that Kaye did such a great job of giving the back story on the series without info-dumping, and I wasn't lost reading South of Surrender.

 

South of Surrender was a treat! I have always loved mythology and many of the various re-tellings, but I can say that I have not come across a re-telling like this. Not only do you have standard gods and goddesses, but what I loved was the Anemoi. You have the Cardinal: North, South, East, and West; the Ordinal, such as: Southwest, Southeast, etc.; and the Inter-Ordinal Anemoi, who are in charge of the half-winds like North-Northwest. (I took this info from the book to help explain.) These gods are in charge of seasons and the cause of the weather patterns. I loved this aspect of the story and found it really inventive and cool.

 

Chrysander "Chrys" Notos is the god of Summer. He thrives on heat and growth and life. I kind of expected Chrys to be this really nice guy, which is weird because he's a god/Element. Chrys was nice, essentially, but he was really complicated, with a long and troubled backstory. He's a little harsh, down to business, and a really dominant guy. He's set on bringing his brother safely to justice, no easy task, and this leads him crashing into Laney Summerlyn's life.

 

Laney Summerlyn was such an endearing heroine. She has a horse farm in Virginia, and leads a very quiet and sheltered life, due to a degenerative eye disease. When Chrys crashes into her barn, and life, Laney gets the chance to help him, get to him, and fall in love. I loved that she forged ahead despite her condition and the fact that Chrys is a god in the midst of an epic battle. The relationship between the two was romantic, complicated, and heated. The two seem to have impossible odds against them, but you just know love will overcome all.

 

South of Surrender is another great book from Laura Kaye. With her books, you always know that you will get fabulous characters, an exciting story, and super hot romance. This book is no exception. Having read it, I am dying to read the first two, and the fourth books in the Hearts of the Anemoi series. If you're looking for a great Paranormal Romance series, this is it.

 

Favorite Quote: 

  He covered her hands with his against the edge of the spa. "What are you doing to me, Laney?" he rasped.
  She turned her face against his. "Loving you," she whispered.
  The words slayed him.
  She loved him. This smart, brave, sexy-as-all-hell woman loved him.
  He couldn't wait another moment.  ~eARC, 81%

Purchase South of Surrender at:

 

      

 

Kobo | iBooks

 

 

Excerpt

 Hey everyone! I’m very happy to be visiting here at The Bookish Babe as I celebrate the release of my tenth novel, South of Surrender, the third book in my Greek-mythology-inspired Hearts of the Anemoi series. One of my favorite things about writing this series was the intensity of the hero, Chrysander Notos, the Supreme God of the South Wind and Summer. Chrys goes at life with both barrels blazing in everything he does, and I just loved that about him. Here’s an exclusive excerpt from the book that gives you a little taste of that:



   “Don’t look at me that way, Laney. I’m so damn close to lifting your hips and burying myself inside you that I’m afraid to move.”
  Heat roared through her, but this time it wasn’t from whatever had attacked her. It was from her pounding desire for the god currently kneeling behind her.

 He was safe. And she was okay. Mostly okay, anyway. And he’d done that for her. He’d taken care of her, just as he promised.

 She didn’t know what had happened in the moments after she saw that awful black light, but she did know they were damn lucky to be alive. And that made Laney not want to waste another moment. There’d be time for explanations later. Now, she wanted him. She wanted him wanting her.
  “Chrys,” she croaked, her throat sore and parched. “Don’t be afraid. I’m not.” Shoving away her nerves, she pushed up onto her hands and knees, the carpet soft underneath. She stopped just shy of grinding herself into what she knew from how he’d laid on her moments before was a massive erection. Adrenaline roared through her until the room spun. His thighs straddling her calves were all she knew, all she could feel.

  Rough hands settled on her hips. “Don’t. Move.” He spat out a curse in that odd language. “Jesus, woman. I’m trying not to hurt you here.”

  She started to turn to him, wanting him to see the sincerity and trust in her face and eyes. Next thing she knew, he’d halted her movement by pinning her wrists against her lower back in one of his big fists. Fear and lust shot through in equal measure. She spoke over her shoulder, “You wouldn’t hurt me, Chrys. You healed me. Again.”

  He tugged her upper body back against his chest, forcing her to arch against him. “You don’t understand what’s about to happen here,” he whispered, his voice low and gritty. “I don’t make love. I don’t do soft and romantic. I fuck. I dominate. And I restrain my lovers because I can’t stand to be touched. Sure, I get my partners off good, but then I walk out the door. So, whatever fantasy about us you’ve got playing in your head right now is whole solar systems away from my ugly reality.”

  For a long moment, Laney was sure her heart stopped. And then it took off at a full-out gallop that left her breathless.

   No one had ever talked to her that way. He was just trying to scare her away. Had to be. And, truth be told, she was a little scared. But she was also wetter for him than she’d ever been for another man. Right at this moment, she couldn’t really think about why his tight grip, rough tone, and coarse words set her body on fire, but there it was. Her nipples puckered. The emptiness between her legs ached. After what’d happened, she needed to connect with him, in every way.

 Arousal flowed so thick through her blood, she’d take him any way she could have him.

 

See why I adored this book?!

 

 

GIVEAWAY 

There are two blog tour giveaways!

Did you have a favorite line from the excerpt? One commenter who leaves their email address will win an ebook of all THREE books in the Hearts of the Anemoi series!

This giveaway will run 48 hours. Open to international! Good luck!

 

The winner was KimCaffeinated!

 

Laura is giving away 3 - $100 gift cards to Amazon, B&N, or iTunes (winner’s choice) as well as 1 set of signed Hearts of the Anemoi books! The giveaway is open internationally and ends at 11:59pm on 6/23 .

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

“A fast-paced thrill ride.” ~New York Journal of Book


"Sexy, emotional stories, powerful, evocative writing, a vivid and unique vision, and enough magic and mysticism to keep the most demanding reader satisfied, Laura Kaye delivers it all. I love this series!" ~Maggie Shayne, NYT Bestselling Author

 

 

Visit all the stops on the South of Surrender Blog Tour for more ways to win!

Official Tour Stops

June 3 - Reading Between the Wines

June 4 - Literary Escapism

June 4 - Vampires, Werewolves, and Fairies. Oh My!

June 5 - Bitten by Books

June 6 - Under the Covers

June 7 - Savvy Authors

June 10 - Book Monster Reviews

June 10 - Love Romance Passion

June 11 - Fade Into Fantasy

June 12 - Cocktails and Books

June 13 - Reading Reality

June 14 - Grave Tells

June 17 - The Bookish Babe

June 18 - Bad Ass Book Reviews

June 19 - Parajunkee

June 20 - Feeling Fictional

June 21 - Literati Literature Lovers

About Laura Kaye:

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

 

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