Main Site: [Home][About Kate][Behind the Scenes][Blog (New Window)][Contest] [Email][Free Short Fiction][Kink of the Month Archives][Links][News] [Newsletter][Out of Print Titles] [Poll][Reviews][Upcoming Events][Videos] [Which Characters Share Your Sign?] Series Sites: [Alien Affairs][Ancient Blood][World of Blood and Soul][Horsemen] [Hot River & Yummy Love][Knights of the Ruby Order][World of Mate Marks] [Python Place][Rough, Tough and Tumble & Aspectians] [Series from the Silver Iris Galaxy] 2010 Newsletter Archives April - June April 2010 May 2010 June 2010 Some short stories and excerpts in the issues of this newsletter have erotic content. The newsletter is intended for those 18 years of age or older who are not offended by erotic content. For newsletter Archives, click here. Current Issue APRIL 2010 CONTENTS: GREETING RECENT WEBSITE UPDATES RECENT GUEST BLOGGERS NEW RELEASES UPCOMING RELEASES EXCERPT FROM KITTENS SCRATCH REVIEWS GUEST AUTHOR: RENA MARKS EXCERPT FROM KISS ME BEFORE I DIE BY RENA MARKS FREE READ LINKS CONTEST LINKS BOOK VIDEO LINKS POLLS Hello and welcome to my first newsletter for 2010. Thank you very much to those who responded to my polls about what you want in a newsletter. I'm going to continue with monthly newsletters and I've also added some new sections, such as links to free reads, book videos and contests from other authors for you to enjoy. Any authors who would like their links included, feel free to email me at katehill@sprintmail.com. Readers, if there's something you'd like to see added to this newsletter or if you have any questions or comments, please email me at katehill@sprintmail.com. This month's guest is author Rena Marks. To find out more about Rena and her books, check out the guest section below. This year has been great so far. Right now I'm working on my Prowleryn series for Changeling Press. This series continues with the tribes of shapeshifting felines who were introduced in Mate Marks: Hunger. If you read that story, you might remember Eber, father of the hero, Joshi. The first book in the Prowleryn series is about Eber and what happens to him after he turns over leadership of his tribe to Joshi. Eber holds a strong grudge against humans for killing his beloved mate, but when Drew saves his life, something happens he never thought would--he finds himself falling in love with a human. I'm also working on the sequel to Northman's Passion. That story ended with Grim going off to rescue his king's daughter, Asgerd. She's loved him for what seems like ages, but Grim has made it clear he has no intention of marrying. Yet when Asgerd is threatened, he experiences feelings of protectiveness and attraction he has never felt before. I hope you all have a great month of April and those who celebrated Easter, I hope you had a fantastic holiday! See you next month, Kate If you'd like to be included in my newsgroup contests, receive an email version of the newsletter, and also occasional posts about new releases and special events, please sign up below: Subscribe to katehill Powered by groups.yahoo.com RECENT WEBSITE UPDATES New website added for the Double Time and Alpha Delicious series. Visit the new site here. RECENT GUEST BLOGGERS Tina Donahue NEW RELEASES Double Time: Puppies Bite (Erotic Sci-Fi) From Changeling Press. On vacation Geri and Dee go swimming in a river, unaware that it's actually a portal to the planet Amazurn in a distant galaxy. They awake on an island where women lusting after rare alpha males indulge in sexual fantasies and gladiatorial sports. In a world ruled by women, where dominant males are banished to the Alpha Islands, twins Iron and Rock earn their living as gladiators. They're training when they notice two women drowning in the sacred lake and dive in to help. Saved by the two brothers, Geri and Dee can't resist their gorgeous rescuers, but on Amazurn, if a woman wants to keep her heart intact, she should never love a gladiator. Double Time: Rock and a Hard Place (Erotic Sci-Fi) From Changeling Press. On Alpha Island men sell their flesh through prostitution or gladiatorial matches. Brothers Iron and Rock have almost earned enough in the arena to buy their freedom. When tragedy strikes during a match, Rock refuses to fight again, even if it means staying on Alpha Island forever. Accidentally transported to the planet Amazurn, Earth women Geri and Dee thought all they wanted was to return home, until they fell in love with the sexy twin gladiators. Tender yet powerful Rock has claimed Geri's heart and fiery Iron is Dee's perfect match. The women must choose between their home world and love. When Rock and Iron are invited by the Queen of Amazurn to participate in a gladiatorial challenge with freedom as the prize, they have a chance for a new life with their lovers. But the competition is fierce and rather than gaining their freedom, the brothers might lose their lives. Naked Souls (Erotic Sci-Fi) From Ellora's Cave. Betrayed and imprisoned, Overlord Lysander is force to mate with beautiful Queen Flora. Lysander has never found a woman more desirable. Resisting her is impossible, especially when manipulated by carnal magic. Trapped in a loveless marriage, Flora has dreamed about Lysander since meeting him at the High King's gathering. She never imaged she would one day be forced into his bed by her maniacal husband. Damaged by an abusive past, King Typhon obsesses about two things—keeping his kingdom safe at any cost and the innocent maid who stirs his body and soul. Love is a luxury a leader can't afford, especially when he's consorting with the Fleshtress, a creature who thrives on mortal lust. Compelled to love a man she can never have, Crystal longs for brooding King Typhon. She sees past his madness and into his heart, but to save the man she must destroy the king. In a magical world at war, passion abounds as four people are stripped to their souls, but will love or lust conquer all? UPCOMING RELEASES Double Time: Kittens Scratch (Erotic Sci-Fi) From Changeling Press. Scientists Passioniera and Seductress are conducting research at the sacred lake on their home planet of Amazurn when they're transported to a primitive world called Earth. Twin brothers Ben and Cole are in the woods, enjoying a much needed break from work, when they come across two of the strangest women they've ever met. They claim to be from another planet, have erection-inspiring curves and put the word "attitude" in the dictionary. Despite their craziness, Ben and Cole find the ladies irresistible. On Amazurn, a man's place is in the home. Barefoot, bare-chested, with a baby in one hand and a dishtowel in the other. Passioniera and Seductress are attracted to rare alpha males and they get more than they bargained for with Ben and Cole. They're tall, strong, independent and absolutely irresistible. When great sex turns to something more, the couples must choose between logic and love. EXCERPT FROM KITTENS SCRATCH Excerpt: Kittens Scratch by Kate Hill (Sci-Fi, BBW) Coming soon from Changeling Press "My monitor is picking up human life about half a mile in that direction."Seductress pointed downriver. "Well, we better take a look." "And hope they're friendly." "Good thing the weather is warm. We're soaked to the skin," Passioniera said, wringing out her long, dark hair. The women followed the river. Their boots moved swiftly over the rocky ground. Amazurnian women were known for their strength and endurance, so to Passioniera and Seductress, this was just a pleasant hike. A short time later, the human readings on their monitors grew stronger. Glancing through the trees, they saw two tall, sleekly-muscled males wading into the rocky water in a stream. They wore nothing but shorts that exposed a great deal of their long, muscular legs. Their sandy blond hair was cropped short and even from a distance there was no mistaking their handsome features. "Wow, Passioniera, it looks like we ended up on Alpha Island Earth," Seductress murmured. Her fear of landing on this planet seemed to have faded in the presence of these sexy men, but that wasn't surprising. For such a brilliant scientist, Seductress was often ruled by her pussy instead of her brain. Yet Passioniera had to admit she was right about these being Alpha males. On Amazurn, powerful, assertive men were banished to the Alpha Islands for fear that they would use their aggression to take over the female dominated world. Unlike most of her species, Seductress wasn't attracted to the slight, delicate males common on Amazurn. She had a fetish for powerful males. These two Earth men were straight out of her fantasies. "Yeah," Passioniera said, her voice just above a whisper. Her gaze fixed on the men who now lay chest deep in the water, only their broad shoulders and gorgeous faces visible. "Girl, I think this is the perfect time to let them know we come in peace," Seductress said. She took a step closer to some rocks leading across the water, but Passioniera stopped her by resting a hand on her arm. "What?" Seductress asked. "While we're here we should take the time to learn as much as we can. What better way than to make love with these beautiful aliens?" On Amazurn, it was perfectly acceptable for women to act on their carnal impulses. Pleasure houses were a major source of entertainment. "Because we're not sure how they'll react," Passioniera said. "They're men so their first impulse should be to please women." "Remember, they're Earth men. And what about safety?" "According to the monitors, our contraceptive, disease control shots are still working." "I don't mean that kind of safety. I mean how do we know they're not overly aggressive?" "Passioniera, if you don't find them attractive and don't want to fuck them--" "It's not that," Passioniera said. "They're very handsome, especially the leaner one." "Excellent. I prefer the heavier one." "I just think we should be careful." Seductress snorted. "I'm always careful. You're the one who was so thrilled about us being here." "That doesn't mean we shouldn't be cautious." "Do what you want, Passioniera. I'm going to introduce myself." Seductress continued toward the water and after a moment's hesitation, Passioniera said, "I'm coming." REVIEWS: FOR IMPASSIONED 5 Cherries Kate Hill's story kept me spellbound throughout, waiting to see what would happen. - Holly, Whipped Cream FOR MATE MARKS: PULSE 5 Hearts The sexual scenes are strong and the couple's emotions develop into a wonderful relationship. - Michele, The Romance Studio FOR HIS GUARDIAN ANGEL 5 Hearts I got so wrapped up in this sensual story that I was sad to say goodbye to the fated couple. - Theresa Joseph, The Romance Studio FOR HIS SISTER'S KISS 4 Nymphs His Sister's Kiss is a beautiful bittersweet story of a solider from the Vietnam era and it left me with mixed emotions, remembering that time. - Goddess Minx, Literary Nymphs This story has a sexy, heroic Marine who's been through hell, and a women who will give him heaven. -Seriously Reviewed Kate Hill has a touching romance with His Sister's Kiss. -Sonya, Fallen Angel Reviews FOR THE ELIXIR MAIDENS Joyfully Recommended Curl up with The Elixir Maidens – they are something else so I can't help but Joyfully Recommend them to everyone! - Lisa, Joyfully Reviewed FOR NAUGHTY NIGHTS: ENSLAVED 4 Tombstones This book was a great afternoon distraction that was both engaging and captivating as a delicious erotic romance. - Bitten by Books 5 Hearts - Margo Arthur, The Romance Studio 3 Cherries If you want a story guaranteed to make you smile, you need to read Naughty Nights: Enslaved. - Tiger Lily, Whipped Cream FOR NAUGHTY NIGHTS: COMMANDED The best part of Ms. Hill's stories is watching what happens to her sharp, spirited women and uncompromisingly masculine men. - Patrice F., Joyfully Reviewed FOR NAUGHTY NIGHTS: DEVOURED 4 Hearts I loved every minute of DEVOURED and frankly wished she would write some more on this alpha male planet. - Dawn, Love Romances and More FOR LICKING FIRE 4 Tombstones The fantastic fantasy was full of exciting twists and turns as the couple try again and again to find a way to break away from the trap they find themselves in. -Hockeyvamp, Bitten by Books 4 Hearts Get this book and enjoy the ride. -Michele, The Romance Studio GUEST AUTHOR: RENA MARKS KH: What are you favorite genres to read and write? RM: My favorite genre is always paranormal. It's just the way my mind twists. I've tried to write contemporary stories, and somehow a witch gets weaved in. Or a vampire. A werewolf. Demon. You get the picture. KH: Do you have any particular writing habits? (Listening to music, best time of day to write, etc.) RM: I've found I work best first thing in the morning, before even getting out of bed! It's like my brain is still in dream mode. If I wait too late in the day, forget it. The sun goes down and takes my imagination with it. KH: Please tell us about your latest release? RM: Kiss Me Before I Die was originally slated for another publisher, strictly urban fantasy. But during the first RomantiCon Convention, I had the opportunity to pose for two covers for my next two books. Needless to say, Kiss Me was re-vamped for Ellora's!The blurb is as follows: When an experiment goes wrong, Afton is sent to release the rage built up in her system by a desire-enhancing drug. Once she finds Ethan, head of the vampires, the drug kicks in. A love affair between a vampire and an Extinguisher is doomed from the beginning, but Afton can't resist the lure of the predator. KH: What is upcoming for you? RM: My third book in the Demonic series, tentatively titled Demonic Kisses, is nearly complete. Holly Dewan is the product of demon eggs hidden on Earth, and since bred with humans. But now her demon side demands her return to Luciefyiore, the Hell dimension, where she discovers her own demonic power. A kiss, which sparks a powerful wave of breeding lust over all in her general vicinity. KH: To you what makes a great hero? RM: A great hero is a man...coming from a woman's mind. Imagine the concept: if any man willingly read romance novels for five years, he could do some real damage to the hearts of women. We pour every secret we've ever wanted from a man into our novels, he would know exactly what women want. KH: If you could meet one of your characters, which one would it be? RM: Hmm. I have. The three old bats from Demonic Kisses are from the future, fifty years or so. Talk to my gal-pals, Tricia and Monica. Read about their real life antics in my blogs. You'll see why this prologue begins the book: Three little old ladies and their dogs were sitting on a park bench having a quiet conversation when a flasher approached from across the park. The flasher came up to the old ladies, stood right before them, and opened his trench coat. Trisha immediately had a stroke. Monika also had a stroke. But Rena, being older and more feeble, couldn't reach that far. Author Unknown KH: Do you have a website, newsgroup or blog where readers can learn more about you and your books? RM: My website is www.RenaMarks.com. From that link, you can find myspace page, my blog, or facebook. KH: Thank you, Rena! Also by Rena Marks: Born Agaiin Demonic Pleasures Forgotten Kisses Demonic Passions Plaything Tempting Demons Sapphire Sizzle Passionate Peridot Opal Obsession GUEST AUTHOR EXCERPT: KISS ME BEFORE I DIE BY RENA MARKS Excerpt: Kiss Me Before I Die by Rena Marks From Ellora's Cave I should have been startled at the rush of cool air behind me. At the very least, surprised, for it had been a year. Somehow I wasn't. Time melted away, as though it had just been yesterday. A whisper of sweet breath curled near my ear. "You cannot get away from me, bella. You'll always be mine." "I own myself," I whispered back. "I've refused you already." "It's not that easy. For even now, you can't deny me." His finger trailed down my shoulder, along my bare skin, danced down my arm. Lightly skimming, reminding me of the touch I craved. I breathed deeply as the blaze kindled deep inside. He was right. Denial was impossible, avoidance was easier. Was it his power or was it something indescribable between us? For now it didn't matter. Heat licked against sensitive nerve endings. His palm, open and warm, pressed flat to my abdomen, pulled me back into him. I could feel the fire between us, coiled tightly inside and knew I'd soon beg for his hand to inch its way lower. His voice, deeper than ever, taunted me with known pleasure. "I could make you come here and now. No one would ever know." Temptation was sinful and it was what I fought hard against. The lure of the vampire. My best weapons were fight and flight. He was right but I wouldn't acknowledge it. For the burning edge of desire struck me tenfold. It was a drug, an addiction I still fought. Sometimes it was one I didn't want to fight. I turned my face slightly, to look into his eyes. Deliberately, I pulled away. His smile was sardonic but he let me go. I wouldn't be able to suppress the urge for long, the awaited anticipation would make my failure sweeter. He knew this. "You run, Afton. But you unknowingly head for my own jurisdictions. There's a reason. You are mine." "No, I'm not," I said clearly. The bastard was way too cocky. And why shouldn't he be? Dark hair contrasted with lighter brown eyes against creamy skin. The distinction of his lighter eyes stood out even more when he wore carefree stubble darkening the line of his jaw. He was tall, broad-shouldered and exuded sex appeal like nobody's business. But I belonged to no one and never would. Instead, I sighed. "How did you find me, Ethan?" "It doesn't matter," he whispered and wrapped strong arms around me. For the briefest moment, I leaned into his strength. Felt it envelop me like a cloud of comfort on a cold day. The need struck even harder now. It was so easy to close my eyes and go with it. Stop fighting. Give up my independence, my humanity. Everything that made me. . .me. I stepped away. "Stop it," I chided. "Keep your tricks to yourself." "Tricks?" he murmured unconvincingly. "I mean it." He knew what I was talking about. He had been imposing his will upon me, mockery to make me believe I was willing to surrender. I would have fallen for it, if I had not given myself the conscious reminder of fight or flight. "Play nice or I'll run again," I warned. But was his need as great as mine? I allowed him to step close to me, close enough that I smelled the aftershave wafting from his skin. He leaned his lips toward mine, silently begging, yet also daring me to take the chance. It was the tiniest opportunity and I couldn't resist, for it had been way too long. I tilted my head back and parted my moistened lips. He touched. And all hell broke loose. Wants, needs, feelings. Emotions ran rampant throughout my soul, yearnings and cravings of a body that had been too long without. I gasped for sweetened air and his tongue touched mine. It stroked lovingly and yet demanded my full surrender. Only one person could be this loving and challenging all at once. Ethan. I felt his hunger, always carefully monitored but now ready to break uncontrollably through. It bubbled to the surface before it was tamped back down when he broke the kiss. He strung heated kisses along my jaw before returning to my lips. I was too eager to kiss him back. I'd missed this desperately. My reservations were flung to the back burner. The music blared and the bodies around us quickened, movements becoming jerky, like mindless zombies with limbs partially stuck in the frozen throes of rigor mortis. But only their brains were dead. Lights flickered off and on. Our tongues entwined, smoothly touching and dancing, sensuously sliding together, making promises that neither of us could keep. Tables crashed, noises growing louder as chairs overturned. Our lips meshed thoroughly, hands roaming each other's bodies. He gripped my hips, pulling me into him. A shiver of need shot through me. Yelling ensued all around us, angrily raised voices screaming with frustrated rage. We broke apart, breathing heavily. Hearts racing. He lowered his forehead to press against mine as he kissed the tip of my nose. Chaos encircled us. Shattering glass, liquid spilling. "You've upset the balance," he murmured. "Come with me." "Never," I said gently. Glass tinkled as a bottle crashed over a person's skull in the scuffle just a few feet away. The victim collapsed like a tree, leaving the scent of blood behind. "Foolish," he murmured and was gone. As usual, he left me to clean up the mess we'd made. Cleanup wasn't easy. Normally easygoing patrons of the club were stunned as to what might have happened to cause such unheard of behavior. An uproar they were involved in. How did one explain they felt the bloodlust of my lover? The vampire who couldn't have me. FREE READ LINKS Free reads by Gloria Oliver: www.gloriaoliver.com/free.html Changeling Press Encounters - Free reads by Changeling Press authors. Service by Kate Hill A free short story collection set in the world of Double Time and Alpha Delicious. Read SERVICE here. CONTEST LINKS Kate Hill April Contest. Click here for details. BOOK VIDEOS Changeling Press TV Latest books from Changeling Press. Tyler's Woman (Outlaw Lovers) by Jan Springer From Ellora's Cave In Service of the Samurai by Gloria Oliver From Zumaya Publications Vassal of El by Gloria Oliver From Zumaya Publications Freeze Frame by Judith Rochelle From Ellora's Cave Watch videos for books by Desiree Holt at http://www.desireeholt.com/ Puppies Bite by Kate Hill From Changeling Press Rock and a Hard Place by Kate Hill From Changeling Press Naked Souls by Kate Hill From Ellora's Cave POLLS: The results of the October poll question are: Which is your favorite Alien Affairs cover? Pandora's Box (9) Menage a Tasia (6) Doing Thyme (6) Moonlight on Water (3) Total votes: (24) MAY 2010 CONTENTS: GREETING RECENT WEBSITE UPDATES RECENT GUEST BLOGGERS NEW RELEASES UPCOMING RELEASES EXCERPT FROM EBER'S ANGEL REVIEWS FREE READ LINKS CONTEST LINKS BOOK VIDEO LINKS POLLS Hello and welcome to my May newsletter. I hope you're having a great spring. The weather has been nice here in New England and I've been getting a lot of gardening done. I've also been working on my latest series, Prowleryns. It's been a lot of fun to expand on the cat shifters who were introduced in Mate Marks: Hunger. On May 27th Eber's Angel, the first book in the Prowleryn series, was released. This story focuses on the father of Joshi, the hero of Mate Marks: Hunger. Eber has a lot of anger toward humans, but he finally comes to terms with his past when he falls in love with a human woman. Next month the second Prowleryn story, Kane's Courtship, will be available from Changeling Press. You can find out more about Kane's Courtship and the other stories in the series at the Prowleryn page--http://www.kate-hill.com/prowleryns/prowleryns.html. Thanks for stopping by this month and I'll see you toward the end of June! Kate Any authors who would like their free read, contest or video links included, feel free to email me at katehill@sprintmail.com. Readers, if there's something you'd like to see added to this newsletter or if you have any questions or comments, please email me at katehill@sprintmail.com. If you'd like to be included in my newsgroup contests, receive an email version of the newsletter, and also occasional posts about new releases and special events, please sign up below: Subscribe to katehill Powered by groups.yahoo.com RECENT WEBSITE UPDATES New website added for the Prowleryn series. Visit the new site here. New contest for May. RECENT GUEST BLOGGERS Tina Donahue NEW RELEASES Prowleryns: Eber's Angel (Interracial, Shapeshifters) From Changeling Press. Lost in a South American jungle, Drew, a wildlife photographer, is shocked to find a sexy yet savage creature trapped in a quicksand pit. Part man and part beast, it looks ferocious yet something in its beautiful green eyes compels her to help him. For over five hundred years Eber reigned as leader of his Prowleryn tribe. Now he has turned over leadership to his son, Joshi. While traveling alone in the wilderness, Eber stumbles into quicksand and is rescued by a human female. Eber has spent most of his life hating humans. Since the death of his wife, who was killed by hunters, there has been an emptiness in his soul. He never dreamed a human could stir his lust or touch his heart, but Drew does the impossible. Unable to resist the beautiful photographer, he finally comes to terms with his grief and learns to love again. Double Time: Kittens Scratch (Erotic Sci-Fi) From Changeling Press. Scientists Passioniera and Seductress are conducting research at the sacred lake on their home planet of Amazurn when they're transported to a primitive world called Earth. Twin brothers Ben and Cole are in the woods, enjoying a much needed break from work, when they come across two of the strangest women they've ever met. They claim to be from another planet, have erection-inspiring curves and put the word "attitude" in the dictionary. Despite their craziness, Ben and Cole find the ladies irresistible. On Amazurn, a man's place is in the home. Barefoot, bare-chested, with a baby in one hand and a dishtowel in the other. Passioniera and Seductress are attracted to rare alpha males and they get more than they bargained for with Ben and Cole. They're tall, strong, independent and absolutely irresistible. When great sex turns to something more, the couples must choose between logic and love. UPCOMING RELEASES Prowleryns: Kane's Courtship (Erotic Shapeshifter) From Changeling Press. Driven from tribal life by an affliction beyond his control, Kane has settled in rural Alaska. He's indulging his Prowleryn side in the frigid wilderness when he saves a human woman's life. The passion between him and Ivonne is hot enough to melt an Alaskan winter, but her troubled past casts a shadow on their newfound happiness. Can a secretive cat shifter and a woman who's a magnet for mystery men find true love? EXCERPT FROM EBER'S ANGEL Prowleryns: Eber's Angel by Kate Hill (Interracial, Shapeshifters) From Changeling Press Drew considered herself a hunter, even though she'd never killed. She was always searching for the perfect wildlife shot, which explained why at the moment she was lost in a South American jungle. If she'd paid closer attention to her guide and less to the almost magical pull of her camera lens, she wouldn't be in such danger right now. Panic nearly set in, but she forced herself to remain calm and focus on finding some indication of which way to travel. She heard a cry -- something between a feline shriek and a human bellow. Her heart skipped a beat. Dangerous animals stalked this wilderness, yet she'd never heard any beast sound quite like this. Over and over the cries tore through the jungle. Drew sensed desperation in that voice. Overcome by curiosity, she ventured toward, rather than away from the sound. She pushed herself through a tangle of vegetation into a clearing. Her eyes widened. Buried chest deep in quicksand struggled a creature unlike anything she'd ever seen. Its face looked both human and feline. Though built like a man, it was covered in a leopard pelt. Its sinewy arms and long, clawed fingers stretched toward the overhanging branch of a nearby tree, but it couldn't quite reach it. The harder it fought for freedom, the deeper it sank. Torn between pity and fear, Drew realized this beast would soon die a horrible death. It paused for a moment, its chest heaving. Clearly it was losing strength. She had no way of knowing how long it had been trapped there, fighting for freedom. At that moment it caught sight of her. Drew momentarily forgot to breathe. Even from a distance she saw keen intelligence and sensitivity in its greenish-yellow eyes. It didn't utter a sound, but something in its expression told her that even if it could speak it wouldn't ask for her help. If this creature understood pride, if it sensed its own mortality, she couldn't leave it to die. She was probably risking her life. Once free, this creature could tear her apart. Its -- his -- powerfully muscled body, clawed hands and gleaming fangs marked him as a predator. She didn't have a weapon to defend herself, yet she approached. He watched her warily. "Easy," she said, her heart pounding. She slipped off her backpack and gear and placed it on the ground. "I just want to help you. Can you understand me?" Except for a low growl, he didn't reply but stared at her. She stepped closer, careful not to get too near the pit. How could she reach him? She pulled off her belt and tossed it to him. He grabbed hold and she tried to heave him out. Lord he was heavy, and with the pull of the quicksand she wasn't sure she could free him. He tried pulling himself out, but only succeeded in dragging her closer to the pit. "No, don't!" she said and released the belt. He fell deeper into the quicksand. A low moan of despair escaped his throat. Again their gazes locked and the expression in his eyes tugged at her heart. "I'm sorry," she said. "I'm sorry. Maybe I can bring the branch closer to you." She jumped up and after a couple of tries caught hold of the overhanging branch. She pulled down as hard as she could while the creature in the pit stretched his long arms upward. He caught hold of the branch and it creaked beneath his weight. Inch by torturous inch he dragged himself higher, his claws sinking into the bark. The branch looked close to snapping. Drew bit her lower lip. He had to make it this time. He had to! As he emerged from the quicksand, she stared in fascination. Beneath the smooth, leopard like pelt, he had the form of an athletic man -- a lean waist, long legs of chiseled muscle, and a tight, perfect ass. He was also completely naked. Finally he reached the side of the pit. Only when he grasped her ankle did she realize she'd stayed far too close to this creature. Now that he had her, what was to stop him from tearing her to pieces? He looked partly human, but would he react like one? She gave a sharp cry as he tugged her to the ground. Instead of harming her, he collapsed on top of her, still panting from his narrow escape, his big, rock-hard body half draped over hers. Drew lay frozen, her heart pounding. Beneath the layer of sand and mud, his pelt felt smooth and his body quite warm. After a few moments, his breathing evened out and he lifted his head to stare into her eyes. Drew swallowed, unsure of what to do. She wondered if he could talk. There was only one way to find out. "Can you understand me?" she asked. He didn't reply, but continued watching her. Those wide set greenish eyes were intelligent. She sensed he knew what she said but was unable or unwilling to respond, at least not in words. He pushed himself to his knees, and when she tried to rise as well, he placed a hand on her stomach. Drew's pulse raced and she remained still, half raised on her elbows. She glanced at the large, hairy hand, waiting for his claws to tear through her clothes and flesh. Though firm, his touch didn't hurt and after a moment his hand moved slowly up her torso. As it passed between her breasts, her nipples tightened and tingled. Finally he paused, his hand curved lightly around her throat. "You're not going to hurt me, are you?" she continued softly, her voice steadier than she felt. REVIEWS: FOR NAUGHTY NIGHTS: COMMANDED 4 Hearts Ms. Hill is an experienced romance writer with a knack for detailing relationships between extremely interesting characters. -Susan W., The Romance Studio FOR NAKED SOULS This was definitely a five-star read. -Rebecca Lynn, The Pen and Muse 4.5 Cherries I recommend this for those who like their knights virile, their passion scorching hot, and their villains redeemable. -Holly, Whipped Cream Erotic Romance Reviews FREE READ LINKS Free reads by Gloria Oliver: www.gloriaoliver.com/free.html Free reads by Kari Thomas: EPILOGUES to "Temptation Unleashed" : The Christmas Chapter: contact authorkari@yahoo.com /see info at: www.authorkari.com/books.html Soul's Choice: contact authorkari@yahoo.com / see info at: www.authorkari.com/books.html Free reads by Kate Hill Free reads by Shelley Munro Free reads by Tina Donahue. Free reads in newsletter: http://www.tinadonahue.com/newsletter/ Changeling Press Encounters - Free reads by Changeling Press authors. BOOK VIDEOS Changeling Press TV Latest books from Changeling Press. Charity Auction by Ashley Ladd From Total E-Bound Publishing Lush Velvet Nights by Tina Donahue From Ellora's Cave Deep, Dark, Delicious by Tina Donahue From Ellora's Cave POLLS: The results of the April poll question are: Which is your favorite Double Time cover? Rock and a Hard Place 16 Puppies Bite 15 Kittens Scratch 2 Total votes: 33 JUNE 2010 CONTENTS: GREETING RECENT WEBSITE UPDATES RECENT GUEST BLOGGERS NEW RELEASES UPCOMING RELEASES EXCERPT FROM KANE'S COURTSHIP REVIEWS GUEST AUTHOR: JESSE FOX FREE READ LINKS CONTEST LINKS BOOK VIDEO LINKS POLLS Hi everybody! Hope you're having a great month of June! This month's guest is author Jesse Fox. You can find out more about Jesse and her books in the guest author section below. Congratulations to Michelle from the USA, winner of the May Contest at this site. She won a pdf download of Puppies Bite. The second story in the Prowleryn series was released this month. If you'd like to read an excerpt, I've posted one in this newsletter and another is posted at the Prowleryns page. Next month, Demitri's Devil, the last in the Prowleryns series, will be available. These shapeshifting cats have been a lot of fun to write about and I hope you've enjoyed reading about them too. Right now I'm working on a new vampire series, Bloody or Nothing. It's related to the Blood and Soul series and the first story, Sudsy, is tentatively scheduled for release in August. If you have any questions or comments about my work or this newsletter, please feel free to contact me at katehill@sprintmail.com. Thank you and see you next month! Kate If you'd like to be included in my newsgroup contests, receive an email version of the newsletter, and also occasional posts about new releases and special events, please sign up below: Subscribe to katehill Powered by groups.yahoo.com RECENT WEBSITE UPDATES New website added for the Prowleryns series. Visit the new site here. RECENT GUEST BLOGGERS Sherry Thompson NEW RELEASES Prowleryns: Kane's Courtship (Erotic Shapeshifter) From Changeling Press. Driven from tribal life by an affliction beyond his control, Kane has settled in rural Alaska. He's indulging his Prowleryn side in the frigid wilderness when he saves a human woman's life. The passion between him and Ivonne is hot enough to melt an Alaskan winter, but her troubled past casts a shadow on their newfound happiness. Can a secretive cat shifter and a woman who's a magnet for mystery men find true love? Carnal Collection (Erotic Vampire/Werewolf) From Changeling Press. Altah, Ruler of the Vampire Nation, must bond with her werewolf guardian to seal the pact between their races. The best warriors from each werewolf family do battle for the right to serve the woman who holds the greatest power in the world -- but no one, not even the Ruler of Vampires, can tame true alpha werewolves. This collection contains the previously released novellas Carnal Surrender, Carnal Indulgence, Carnal Obedience, and Carnal Discipline. UPCOMING RELEASES Prowleryns: Demitri's Devil (Erotic Shapeshifter) From Changeling Press. Patricia walks the line between life with her Prowleryn tribe and life with humans. Unfortunately times are desperate for her people and she agrees to mate with the leader of a foreign tribe that is far more traditional than her own. Demitri believes in discipline and expects those around him to obey his commands. His new mate is the most impossible female he has ever met, yet he can't resist her. Patricia can't understand how she can be attracted to such an unbearable man, yet no one has ever made her feel like Demitri. She soon realizes her arguments with Demitri are only mating games. When he's threatened by a power-hungry Prowleryn, nothing and no one will keep her from standing by him, regardless of the danger. EXCERPT FROM KANE'S COURTSHIP Excerpt: Kane's Courtship by Kate Hill (Erotic Shapeshifter) Coming soon from Changeling Press She did as he asked and slowly undressed. Kane watched her with smoldering eyes and when she rejoined him on the bed, he tugged her on top of him so they lay breast to chest. "I want you so bad, Ivonne." "You too." He lifted his head and captured her mouth in a possessive kiss. When it broke, Ivonne reached for the package of condoms. She took one and rolled it onto his thick cock. Then she knelt between his legs, clasped the hard, silken shaft and rolled her tongue over the head. She licked and sucked him and by the tension in his body she sensed when he was on the verge of coming. She paused and he stared at her, his eyes dark with passion. "Come here," he said, his voice almost a growl. The sound of it made her shiver with desire. He grasped her upper arms and placed her beside him. Lightly stroking her hair from her face, he moistened his lips then kissed her. While his lips and tongue plundered hers, he tenderly stroked her breasts. His thumbs swept her nipples, making them stiffen even more. This man knew exactly how to touch her. It amazed her that someone she'd only just met seemed to know her so well. Ivonne ran her hands over his body, loving the feel of his hard muscles and the warmth of his skin. She even liked the feel of his scars against her fingertips. "Lie on your stomach," she said. "Please." He did as she requested and she straddled him. Her bottom rested against his tight, hard ass and she massaged his strong back. Her fingertips swept over the light down of hair on his lower back then tickled the indentation of his buttocks. Finally she bent and used the very tip of her tongue to trace the long scars on his back. She moved lower and kissed his taut buttocks while she reached between his legs and fondled his balls. With a growl of pleasure, he rolled over and pinned her to the bed, a hand braced on either side of her head. The tip of his engorged cock pressed against her pussy. She was already wet for him, but instead of thrusting into her right away, he reached down and fondled her sensitive flesh. REVIEWS: FOR HIS GUARDIAN ANGEL HIS GUARDIAN ANGEL by Kate Hill is a fast paced, fun story full of mystical wonder. -Chrissy Dionne, Romance Junkies FOR LICKING FIRE 4.5 Her characters are believable, intelligent, and compelling. -Heather, Night Owl Romance FOR ROCK AND A HARD PLACE 4.5 These couples are truly in love. Every act between them shows the depth of their love for one another. -Jennifer Leigh, Just Erotic Romance Reviews FOR NAKED SOULS This was definitely a five-star read. -Rebecca Lynn, The Pen and Muse 4.5 Cherries I recommend this for those who like their knights virile, their passion scorching hot, and their villains redeemable. -Holly, Whipped Cream Erotic Romance Reviews FOR NAUGHTY NIGHTS: COMMANDED 4 Hearts Ms. Hill is an experienced romance writer with a knack for detailing relationships between extremely interesting characters. -Susan W., The Romance Studio GUEST AUTHOR: JESSE FOX KH: What are you favorite genres to read and write? JF: Recently, I really haven't had much time to read, but my leanings are toward the paranormal/fantasy, but I adore crime thrillers as well. It honestly depends on where my mind and mood are at that particular point in time. I write in the same genres that I love to read. KH: Do you prefer to write during the day or at night? JF: I prefer nights being a night owl by nature, but my day job requires me to be up and running at 7 am. I work from home so that gives me a great deal more flexibility with my hours than most people would have. So, depending on my schedule you could catch me writing morning, noon, or night. KH: Please tell us about your latest release. JF: My last release "Samhain's Embrace" is a contemporary m/m paranormal novella about loss, grief, and magic. Bran Conleth is a man willing to do anything to have his lover return from the dead. He turns to the world of paganism and magic to call forth his lover from the land of the dead on All Hallow's Eve, but instead he draws the embodiment of Samhain to him. In the embrace of Samhain he learns that there is life after death and in that journey teaches an ancient being far more about humanity than he ever intended. KH: What is upcoming for you? JF: Right now I'm working diligently on "Primeval Whispers" the first book in the AP Investigations Series. The series follows the adventures of gay psychologist, Valentin 'Val' Amoretti and his team of paranormal investigators. Val comes from a family of debunkers and he never understood their obsession. After the death of his family ten years ago in a plane crash that he was the soul survivor of he's drawn him back into the world of the paranormal. Their first case is in the Appalachian town of Spear's Hollow, West Virginia, where what appears to be a werewolf is attacking and killing people. Val is determined to find a scientific logical explanation, but his past with the client, and his own insecurities are making the job difficult. KH: To you what makes a great hero/heroine? JF: Flaws. I know that might be a simple answer, but to me the best heroes are the most human. They're the people you meet on the street everyday who aren't perfect. They're your neighbors, co-workers, even family who are forced into an extraordinary situation where they have to make tough decisions even when those decisions might hurt them or others in the process. They do what they have to do to survive and protect the ones they love or even a stranger. KH: If you could meet one of your characters, which one would it be? JF: Oh, Goddess that's a hard one. I love all my characters, but if I had to pick one I suppose it would be Alex Klein, the hero of my gay crime thriller "Blood Noir". Alex is a gentle, artistic soul, a photographer with a snarky sense of humor. He's suddenly forced to face a past he had no knowledge of and the possibility of the life he's created with his lover Harley being destroyed by that past. He's an every man, he's not perfect, he makes some stupid mistakes, but he faces down the darkness that creeps into his life with a passion that I believe every hero needs. KH: Do you have a website, newsgroup or blog where readers can learn more about you and your books? JF: Yes, I do. You can find me at http://jessefox1968.wordpress.com/ where you can read excerpts from all my work, watch promo trailers for my work, and get to know me through my blogging. You can also find me at the following links below: My Publisher: http://www.darkroast.com/ E-Mail: jesse_fox2008@peoplepc.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/FoxTracks MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/jesse_fox2008 Face Book: http://www.facebook.com/JesseFox1968 Also by Jesse Fox: Shadows Beneath Lumiere Blood Noir FREE READ LINKS Newsletter with reads by Tina Donahue Changeling Press Encounters - Free reads by Changeling Press authors. Kate Hill's free reads. Marianne Stephens: Christmas in July Contest No one wants to wait for Christmas to celebrate the holidays...so...we're having a Christmas in July Event! Great Prizes, to include a new Sony Touch eReader, hats, totes, tee-shirts, gift cards, and more! To enter our BIG contest: 1. Join our yahoo group at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/romancebooksrus (Sorry - we're not approving authors for membership at this time, only READERS and INDUSTRY REPS). When you join, please indicate if you're a reader, writer/pre-pubbed, or industry rep. 2. Become a Follower at our blog: http://romancebooksrus.blogspot.com. Click on FOLLOW and follow directions. If you have a problem with this, contact april@aprilash.net (aprilATaprilashDOTnet). 3. Below Followers, there are 20 RBRU Bloggers' Websites/Blogs listed on the right sidebar at the blog. Click on each one. Send a list of 20 authors' names and one book title for each one to: contests.rbrus@gmail.com (contestsDOTrbrusATgmailDOT.com) . If an author has two pen names, you only need to click on one. You'll need a total of 20 author names and 20 book titles. Contest runs from 1July - midnight ET 31 July. Sorry...we'll ship big prizes to US and Canadian residents only. Others may receive an emailed gift card/certificate. Winners will be announced on our Yahoo group and blog during the first week in August. Please note: If you join just to enter the contest and then leave the group, you won't be permitted to rejoin when we do another BIG contest. Like Santa, I'm "making a list and checking it twice" so will keep track of those who join and leave. ALSO...going NO MAIL sometimes happens to everyone...but please don't make this permanent. We want you to be a part of our group and hear all our news...and join in! I also check this "list". MORE AUTHORS WILL SPONSOR ADDITIONAL CONTESTS DURING JULY...SO...KEEP CHECKING OUR YAHOO GROUP! BOOK VIDEOS Changeling Press TV Latest books from Changeling Press. Tina Donahue's Book Videos Damned and Desired by Kathy Kulig From Ellora's Cave Puppies Bite by Kate Hill From Changeling Press Rock and a Hard Place by Kate Hill From Changeling Press Naked Souls by Kate Hill From Ellora's Cave POLLS: The results of the May poll question are: Which is your favorite Hot River cover? Sixty-Nine Sadie (7) Noodlin' for Nadine (6) Second Chance Charity (5) Triple Shot Tracy (1) Total votes: (19)