Excerpt – Something New

For those of you who still haven’t had a chance to read, Something New, I figured I’d give you a little excerpt of what you’re missing! NOTE: Something New has been on the top 100 best-selling ebooks on Amazon’s -multi-cultural list for the past three months!

A Blurb About the Book

Entrepreneur, Simone Edwards, did what any intelligent woman with a ticking biological clock would do: she asked her longtime boyfriend to marry her. Devastated when he turns her down, and fed up with dead-end relationships, Simone swears off men … and takes a vow of celibacy. How hard could it be? She soon learns it’s harder than she thinks when the most irresistible man in the world, Tim Hollister, shows up at her job. She hasn’t seen him in over ten years, and quickly realizes he is a temptation she doesn’t want to resist. But isn’t there some rule about dating your friend? Simone must decide if a romance with Tim is worth risking their friendship, and her reclaimed virginity.

Tim Hollister has placed a padlock on his heart. But when Simone, an old high school friend, falls back into his life, he soon forgets his promise to stay clear of beautiful women. Simone was always like a sister to him, but he discovers that his feelings for her aren’t very brotherly. He’s captivated by the woman she’s become and is on a mission to take their friendship to the next level, and prove that he’s the man for her.

****

Excerpt – This is part of a scene where Tim finally let’s Simone know that he’s interested in taking their friendship to the next level.

****

“Hey. You left your notes for the new business plan in my office,” Jessica said and handed them to her. She propped her hip against the edge of Simone’s desk and crossed her arms. “I guess that means you’re still a little distracted by thoughts of a tall, dark, and fine brother who I haven’t seen in a few days.”

Simone smiled at her friend, knowing she was fishing for information. “He’s not scheduled to be back here until the day after tomorrow. I still have a little more information to put into QuickBooks before he returns for my next lesson.” Her mind burned with memories of them standing on her front porch, kissing. The more she tried to ignore the thoughts, the more they persisted. It had been over a week since she’d last seen or heard from Tim, and she missed him.

“Are you going to share what’s been going on with you two, or do you plan to keep it to yourself?” Jess asked and moved to sit in one of the upholstered chairs near the desk.

“Well, we put most of the accounts into the QuickBooks software, the employee information, and now I need to—”

Her partner glared at her through narrowed eyes. “You are not funny. You know what I’m talking about. Last I heard, you guys were going to a movie, but you didn’t tell me how things went.”

“You were at meetings all last week, and besides, there’s not much to tell. We went to the movies, then—”

Two light taps against her closed office door stopped her explanation.

“Come in,” Simone called out.

Nothing could’ve prepared her for the tall, devastatingly handsome body that stood in the doorway. Her heart jolted at the sight of Tim. He walked into her office, and her eyes traveled from those inviting lips to his broad shoulders covered by an expensive-looking double-breasted suit. She stood slowly, gripping the edge of her desk while her pulse pounded in her ears. She hadn’t seen him in a suit since he first showed up at the school, and he looked hot.

“Hey,” he said, his voice like silk against her skin.

Had she imagined it, or was that a smoldering flame she saw in the depths of his eyes?

He turned to face Jessica, whom Simone had forgotten was in the room. “Can you give us a moment?”

A wide grin curved her friend’s mouth. “Of course.” She stood and glanced at Simone. “We’ll finish our discussion a little later.”

Once the door was closed, Simone gave her attention to the man standing before her. He walked around the desk, grasped her hand, and pulled her body tightly to his. Before Simone could say anything, his mouth covered hers in a sweet, delicious kiss that caused her to mold into him. Moments later, he raised his mouth from hers and gazed into her eyes.

“We need to talk.”

She groaned inwardly, preferring a kiss over talking, as he led her to the cozy sitting area on the left side of her desk. She sat on the sofa, while he unbuttoned his suit jacket before sitting next to her.

“First, let me say that I’m sorry I haven’t called you.” He reached for her hand and held it snugly within his. His eyes trained on her. “Though I haven’t called, there hasn’t been a day that’s gone by that I haven’t thought about you. Hell”—he shrugged—“a night either. You have me so turned out I can’t think straight. I haven’t been eating, sleeping, or able to concentrate on my work because of you.”

She looked down at their joined fingers, enjoying the way his thumb caressed the top of her hand. “If it’ll make you feel any better, I haven’t been faring much better.”

He smiled for the first time since entering her office, and her heart leaped into her throat. The fact that he could turn her on with just a smile let her know that she was losing her heart to this man.

Tim stood, walked a couple of feet away, and then turned back to her. “I want more. I know we agreed to rekindle our friendship, but I no longer want to be friends.” Apparently noticing her surprised look, he added, “I want to be so much more.”

Simone sat speechless, fighting to control the nervous flutters in the pit of her stomach. She ran her sweaty palms over the thighs of her pants and stared at the floor. Yesterday, she had made up her mind that she would keep her relationship with Tim at a friendship level, nothing more. But now, with the way he was looking at her, and the way he made her pulse quicken with just his presence, she wasn’t so sure.

Tim sat next to her and lifted her chin, forcing her to look at him. “All I’m asking is for a chance. I know you just got out of a relationship, but give me a chance to show you how a man treats a woman he cherishes.”

Simone shook her head, though loving his words. “I don’t want to lose you,” she whispered.

“Sweetheart, you’re not going to lose me.”

Before she could say anything, she heard a series of beeps and looked around to see where the sound was coming from.

“I’m sorry, that’s me,” Tim said and stood. He pulled his cell phone out of his pocket and turned off his alarm. “I have a meeting in a little while, and that was my reminder.”

“Oh, okay.” Simone made a move to stand, and he helped her up. With one arm around her waist holding her close, he caressed her cheek with his free hand, his face inches from hers.

“I meant everything I said a few minutes ago. I want you, and I plan to do whatever it takes to have you.”

His mouth came down over hers, and within seconds, a wave of pleasure crashed through her body, sending her desire from one to ten within a heartbeat. His lips devoured hers, coaxing her without words to agree to dating him, and at the moment, she wanted to scream to the world: Yes!

He lifted his head, and his dark, assessing eyes stared into hers. “I’m looking forward to being more than your friend.” And with that, he buttoned his jacket and walked out of her office.

Lord have mercy.

****

Tim shook his head as he slid behind the wheel of his car minutes after leaving Simone’s office. Never had his feelings been so intense for a woman like they were for Simone. Was he nervous about taking their friendship to the next level? Yes. Could he picture his life without her if things didn’t work out between them? No. Was that going to stop him from pursuing her until she was all his? Hell no.

He groaned out loud and closed his eyes, his head falling back against the headrest. His fixation regarding her was scaring the hell out of him. He thought about her constantly, even in his dreams. And no way was this lust he was feeling. He had no doubt that he was in love with Simone Edwards.

Buy Links:

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In Paperback:  Createspace    Amazon

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I Have A Dream

As most of you know, one of my dreams as a writer is to be featured in an anthology with Beverly Jenkins and Brenda Jackson – two of my favorite authors. I absolutely love reading anthologies whether they’re holiday themes, or subject based -like forgiveness, trust, or finding true love.  As long as this anthology include stories by the three of us – I’m good with any theme. With that said though, the other day I did come up with a SUPER cool title for the anthology (which means I already have an awesome theme in mind). I just wish I could share the details with you all, but I figured I should probably keep them to myself until I hear from Mrs. Jenkins and Mrs. Jackson (NOTE: I wanted to use their first names or call them the two BJ’s, but figured it might be too soon).

At any rate, I started thinking about how this could all play out.  For example: what will be our process for deciding on a theme for this anthology? As you know I have my own ideas, but I’m looking forward to hearing some of theirs. As for the genre –I’m thinking romance, but these ladies are so talented, it could be sweet, suspense, or historical romance. I also wonder what our book cover will look like. Will it have some gorgeous hunk gracing the cover, or will it portray a sweet, loving scene of romance like candles, roses, or a couple engaged in a loving kiss? I already figured the stories will be listed in this order: first Beverly Jenkins, then Sharon C. Cooper, and then Brenda Jackson. What can I say? I want to be in the middle and have one heavy hitter get us started, and the other bring it on home. Hey, if you’re going to dream, might as well dream big!

Now, during all of this dreaming and planning something dawned on me – will I be able to handle the pressure? We’re talking about two of the romance industry’s most beloved and talented authors! I’m pretty good about trying almost anything once (except for certain foods like slimy oysters and never recreational drugs), but this would be HUGE! Featured in a book with these two women is going to be beyond awesome! This will be one of the most amazing opportunities of my writing career- do I have what it takes? Determination? Courage to hang with the best? An over active imagination? After thinking about this question(s)  for all of two minutes, my answer is – heck yeah! I’ll be ready – I’m just waiting for them to call!

Okay, enough about me – what about you? If you’re a writer, who would you want to share a book (anthology) with? Or if you’re a singer or play an instrument, who would you want to share a stage with and why?

Special Guest – Deatri King-Bey

It is with great pleasure that I introduce my special guest – multi-published and award-winning author, Deatri King-Bey! Deatri is the author of the Write Brothers series, but before she tells us about the Write Brothers series and her latest title, let’s find out a little about her. So Deatri, let’s get started:

Tell us a little about yourself. I started in the publishing industry as a developmental editor at Third World Press, Inc. a little over a decade ago. Their focus was nonfiction, so I moved onto freelance editing for several publishing houses. I’m also an avid reader and multi-published, award winning author with fifteen full length novels under my belt. I write romance and women’s fiction under my name and dangerously-sexy suspense under the name L. L. Reaper. On a personal note, I have three fantastic daughters who have given me the three greatest grandchildren ever. I also married my hero over twenty-five years ago and look forward to when we can both retire and can be the annoying older couple in the grocery store fussing over which bottled water brand to purchase.

What is your favorite book, and why is it your favorite? My favorite book changes depending on my mood. Today my favorite book is the historical romance Indigo by Beverly Jenkins. How can you not fall for a man who has a life of privilege, yet continually places himself in danger to help others?

I know, right! Deatri, you probably didn’t know this, but I absolutely LOVE Beverly Jenkins! She’s one of my favorite authors! Okay, but I digress. Let me get back to my questions.

What genre do you write in the most, and what is it about the genre that attracts you? I write romance with a good dose of reality and danger the most. Though romance is fantasy, falling in love is not. Watching characters overcome the odds to fall in love is something I can never tire of reading and writing. I also like to throw realism in there because we all have issues in our lives and we with the serious issues deserve to find true love, too. Then there’s the danger. That’s the fun part.

Here’s a topic that my readers and I discussed recently – Is there such a thing as too much sex in a romance novel? What are your thoughts? Yes there can be. Sex in a novel should flow with the plot, not be there for the sake of being Hot. If you want to sell scenes of sex, that’s doable in this day of eBooks and you’d make a lot of money at it.

Do you have critique partners or beta readers? I have the best beta readers. They have no problem giving constructive feedback. I love them.

Do you have a favorite hero/heroine you’ve written? What makes them special?  Jeanette Mason from the Black Widow and the Sandman I wrote with a partner under the alias L. L. Reaper. That title is a dangerously-sexy suspense, so I wasn’t confined by the rules of romance and women’s fiction. Jeanette was able to be free. I loved it. I enjoy writing romance because I love the challenge of creating original stories that fit in a formula, but sometimes I need the freedom to just write without so many rules.

What inspired you to write your latest release? I like to give myself challenges. Determined to write traditional romance and a series, I decided to combine those two challenges together. I truly admire people who can write traditional series romance consistently. The idea for the overall plot for the Write Brothers series came to me when I was watching my grandson play with the puppy in the yard. I could see a grandmother watching her grandson, wishing her sons were married. Next thing you know. Gloria Write was on a mission to ensure her sons had their happily ever after. One of my favorite aspects of this series is I allowed the readers to determine the order the books were written in. We had a BALL.

Okay,  Deatri, so now tell us about your latest title, Tease, the final book of your Write Brothers series. Oh by the way, I have to tell you – I am straight up feelin’ this book cover!

Lol! Okay,  allow me to tell you a little about my latest title, Tease:

After Eva caught her fiancé in bed with her cousin, she swore she’d never be played for the fool again. Now the ultimate bed-hopper—Tyler Write, has set his sights on her and she’s having difficulty resisting him.

Tyler can have any woman except the one he truly wants—Eva Simpson. Smooth lines and sweet talk won’t work with her. To have a chance at Eva’s heart, he’ll have to show her who he really is.

This eBook is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble for $2.99 and will be available in print in a few weeks.

Also available is Sons 4 Sale, an eBox set of the entire Write Brothers series for only $7.99 at Amazon, as well as Barnes & Noble.

Sharon, I hope you and your readers enjoy reading about this family as much as I enjoyed writing about them.  I also wanted to take a second to thank you for allowing me to monopolize your blog site today. I appreciate it.

It’s my pleasure, Deatri. I’m glad you had a chance to stop by to tell us a little about yourself and what you’ve been up to. Now, where can readers find you online?

They can find me at: http://DeatriKingbey.com, http://www.facebook.com/deatri,  and Twitter @deatrikingbey or @LLReaper

Sounds good. Thanks again, Deatri.

Okay readers, show Deatri some love by not only purchasing her books, but by leaving a comment below.

Available Today – Blue Roses!

I’m happy to announce the release of my latest novel – Blue Roses! This is the first book from my Reunited Series. Remember Dallas Marcel from my debut novel, Something New? Well, Dallas is back, and is as feisty as ever!

Blurb:

Where most women would welcome love from a wealthy, good-looking man, Chicago-based investment manager, Dallas Marcel, is not one of them. She will never let a man control her life again. That includes handsome entrepreneur, Tyler Hollister. Dallas is on track to making partner and she’s not letting anything or anyone get in her way. But when her life is put in danger, and a Ponzi scheme ignites a SEC investigation of her firm, she realizes the one man she’d banned from her heart, might be the only one who can save her career and her life.

Tall, dark, and handsome, Tyler Hollister can have any woman he wants, but he only wants one – Dallas. When he starts talking marriage, she breaks things off between them, claiming she doesn’t want a romantic entanglement to hinder her plight to making partner. A chance meeting, six months later, brings them face to face and Tyler soon realizes the intense sexual attraction they once shared is stronger than ever. But he swore he was done with her. Except he finds out her life is in danger, and his protective instincts take over. Can he save her life without losing his heart … again?

Here’s an excerpt from Blue Roses

“Man, where are you?”

“I’m on my way.” Tyler Hollister pinned his cell phone between his shoulder and his ear as he fumbled for his keys on his way out of the dentist office.

“You were supposed to be here a half-an-hour ago.”

“Q, I’m sorry. Is the meeting over?”

“Nah, but I don’t know how much longer I can stall for you.”

Tyler glanced at his Breguet watch and hurried to his truck. He knew how much Quinn, his best friend and business partner hated meetings. “Okay, give me ten minutes. My appointment took longer than I thought, but I’m … damn, I’d know that sexy walk anywhere.” He stopped in his tracks when his eyes zoned in on the beautiful woman on the other side of the street.

“What? Ty, dude what’s up?”

He continued to observe as she made her way to the middle of the semi-crowded block in downtown Milwaukee weaving around people along the way. True to form, she caught the eye of a few guys passing. Tyler chuckled when they turned and enjoyed one more view once she’d passed. She always did have that effect on men. It wasn’t until she stopped to throw something in the trash, that he knew for sure it was her. Dallas Marcel, his ex-girlfriend.

“Q, I’ll call you back.” He disconnected not giving Quinn a chance to respond, and shoved the phone into his pocket. Tyler moved in her direction, stepping around a broken orange and white road barrier sign that was lying in the center of the sidewalk.

He stole a quick glance at Dallas as she came to a stop at the corner to wait for the light to change. Not wanting to miss the opportunity to say hello, he leaned against the brick building to his right, ensuring that she would have to walk past him once the light turned green.

Still gorgeous. Tall, fierce, and dressed to the nines. He loved it when she wore her long, thick hair piled high on top of her head, the way she had it now, with a few curly tendrils hanging down. The look complimented her perfectly sculpted face and revealed her long, sexy neck.

He cursed under his breath and looked away. He didn’t want to still be attracted to the most bullheaded woman he’d ever met. Too independent for her own good, but one of the best investment managers in Chicago, she was a woman on a mission. Her goal in life, or as he saw it, obsession, was to make partner at her firm – which was why she turned down his marriage proposal. According to her, she didn’t have room in her life for a serious relationship, despite the fact that they were perfect together, in every way.

“She threw what we had away, so why am I standing here just to say hello?” He mumbled and slipped a piece of gum into his mouth, not understanding his need to see her again.

His cell phone chirped twice signaling a text message, and he pulled it out of his pocket, and scanned the screen. No need to come – postponed the rest of the meeting until next week. Headed to Bradley Rd. to check on the guys.

Good. One less meeting. Tyler deposited his cell into the inside pocket of his suit jacket and adjusted his tie. As a real estate developer, it seemed most of his days were spent in meetings, reading over contracts, or dealing with building inspectors.

He pushed away from the building and rolled his shoulders just as the light turned green, and Dallas stepped off the curb. Finally, he’d be face-to-face with the woman he’d tried hard to forget, but couldn’t stop thinking about. He took a few steps when suddenly their eyes met, and a sensuous light passed between them. All of the sexual energy, passion and love he once felt for her came rushing back to the surface, and his heart hammered double-time in response. Damn.

Dallas’s pace slowed, but she continued across the street, her magnetic brown eyes held his attention, immobilizing him. Less than twenty feet from him and it was as if he were seeing her for the first time. A raging fire grew in the pit of his stomach, his hands ached to touch her, and all it had taken was that one look. This is not cool. He quickly pulled his eyes away and looked everywhere but at her, feeling the need to regroup. I’m supposed to be over her.

After a long cleansing breath, he looked up again just in time to see a car barreling toward her.

“Oh shit. Watch out!” he shouted, and then sprinted in her direction.

Screeeeechhhhhh! Boom!

“Nooo!” He yelled as her body bounced off the hood of the car. He slid to a stop before he reached the corner, shock kept him from moving forward. It wasn’t until the four-door dark sedan sped away in the opposite direction that he moved into action.

“Excuse me, excuse me.” He pushed his way through the swarm of people. An icy fear crawled up his spine when he saw her lifeless body on the hard pavement, a puddle of blood painted the ground near her head. “Oh my God,” he whispered and fell to his knees. “Dallas. Baby…” He caressed her cheek, afraid to move her. His heart pounded against his chest, and beads of sweat surfaced on his forehead as panic rioted within him. “Get some help over here!”

Time ceased as a haunting sense of foreboding wrapped around him when he checked and found her pulse was weak. He needed to do something, but thankfully, in the far distance he could hear the sirens. “Hold on, baby, hold on.”

Get your copy today to see what happens next! All Romance e-books, Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords

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Blue Roses – A Sneak Peak

Guess what’s coming soon -my next novel! Woo hoo!!!! Here’s a sneak peak.

She was determined to make partner.

He was determined to have her as his wife.

Neither expected to be fighting for their lives. 

A love of a lifetime…

Where most women would welcome love from a wealthy, good-looking man, Chicago-based investment manager, Dallas Marcel, is not one of them. She will never let a man control her life again. That includes handsome entrepreneur, Tyler Hollister. Dallas is on track to making partner and she’s not letting anything or anyone get in her way. But when her life is put in danger, and a ponzi scheme ignites a SEC investigation of her firm, she realizes the one man she’d banned from her heart, might be the only one who can save her career and her life.

Tall, dark, and handsome, Tyler Hollister can have any woman he wants, but he only wants one – Dallas. When he starts talking marriage, she breaks things off between them, claiming she doesn’t want a romantic entanglement to hinder her plight to making partner. A chance meeting, six months later, brings them face to face and Tyler soon realizes the intense sexual attraction they once shared is stronger than ever. But he swore he was done with her. Except he finds out her life is in danger, and his protective instincts take over. Can he save her life without losing his heart … again?

Blue Roses, available July 11, 2012!

Special Guest: Yawatta Hosby – Is T.M.I. – A Turn-off For You?

Today I have a fabulous blogger, Yawatta Hosby, visiting and sharing her thoughts on love scenes – how much is too much?  Please join me in welcoming her! Alright Yawatta, take it away!

Is T.M.I. (Too Much Information) A Turn-off For You?
A guest post by Ywatta Hosby

Are you a visual reader? I love when an author is great with description, causing me to get lost in their story. However, there’s some scenes that should be left to the readers’ imagination.

What scenes, you ask? The ones involving sex, lovemaking, quickies, etc.

I want to feel what the characters feel. I want to sense what’s going on around them. With sex scenes, descriptions should be based more on the emotional aspect instead of the mechanical terms. I like it when the story makes me feel like I’m experiencing the character’s journey with them instead of just reading about a character.

When the scene gets too technical, it comes across as just reading about a character, just looking from the sidelines. To me, too technical or mechanical means describing every single action, every single position, where characters’ mouths and hands are placed every step of the way. Also, when I see “so and so inserted ____ into ____” that’s T.M.I. (Too Much Information), which pulls me right out of the story.

Even if a reader doesn’t have an active sex life, they can still figure out how the process works, especially if they watch TV and movies. So, us readers, don’t need a play-by-play breakdown written for us to comprehend what’s going on.

It’s best to leave some things up for the readers’ imagination. My favorite type of lovemaking scenes are the ones that reveal the emotional side of things and let’s my mind wander, interpreting however I’d like to.

What’s your favorite type of scenes?

And, I love when the writer captures one character’s thoughts, emotions, and perceptions throughout the scene. It gets too confusing when both characters’ thoughts are used simultaneously. The whole point is to connect with the journey of the people you’re reading about; it’s difficult to do that when headhopping is present. Readers will get a sense of everything that’s going on but won’t have time to process it.

I don’t know about you, but I want to process the moment like its a favorite website embedded in my memory. I want to finish reading and go “Oh, they’re so cute together! I hope they last!” I want to get the warm fuzzies like I do every time I watch The Notebook.

Now, don’t get me wrong. Every story doesn’t require sex scenes. If you read Christian, inspirational, or cozy mysteries, then you’ve probably never came across any of these scenes. There’s some genres that forbid it, some that can go either way, and some where if not enough, readers will demand a refund.

I don’t want to read lovemaking scenes that don’t enhance the plot or fit the character’s personality. Then it just comes across as the writer adding those actions because he or she felt they had to in order to sell the novel. In today’s age, sex sells. However, there’s been amazing books that I’ve read where the sex wasn’t mentioned at all, yet it was still a hot, passionate, and steamy novel. The way the authors described make-out sessions or sexual tension was a huge turn-on, so I can only imagine how awesome a lovemaking scene from them would be (if the story required it).

For all the readers out there, is T.M.I. a turn-off for you? Do you enjoy reading sex scenes? Or do you get embarrassed, blushing and hoping no one looks over your shoulder?

Thanks for being my guest, Yawatta!

Show Yawatta some love by leaving a comment. I’d also encourage everyone to stop by and visit Yawatta’s blog (especially if you’re an aspiring writer/author)! You can also contact her at:

Blog: http://yawattahosby.wordpress.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/yawatta_hosby

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/yawatta

Something New – Excerpt

For those of you who still haven’t had a chance to read, Something New, I figured I’d give you a little excerpt of what you’re missing!

A Blurb About the Book

Entrepreneur, Simone Edwards, did what any intelligent woman with a ticking biological clock would do: she asked her longtime boyfriend to marry her. Devastated when he turns her down, and fed up with dead-end relationships, Simone swears off men … and takes a vow of celibacy. How hard could it be? She soon learns it’s harder than she thinks when the most irresistible man in the world, Tim Hollister, shows up at her job. She hasn’t seen him in over ten years, and quickly realizes he is a temptation she doesn’t want to resist. But isn’t there some rule about dating your friend? Simone must decide if a romance with Tim is worth risking their friendship, and her reclaimed virginity.

Tim Hollister has placed a padlock on his heart. But when Simone, an old high school friend, falls back into his life, he soon forgets his promise to stay clear of beautiful women. Simone was always like a sister to him, but he discovers that his feelings for her aren’t very brotherly. He’s captivated by the woman she’s become and is on a mission to take their friendship to the next level, and prove that he’s the man for her.

Excerpt – This is part of a scene where Tim shows up at Simone’s company, as a consultant who her business partner wants to hire. Going in, Tim doesn’t know that Simone is part owner of the business, but when he sees her (after ten years) he suggests they get reaquainted. Simone’s not sure that’s a good idea.

****

“Maybe.”

Simone had told Jessica no men. So why was she sitting across from Tim, who was all man?

“What do you mean maybe?” Jessica questioned.

Oh crap, did I say that out loud? “I meant, though I think Tim would be easy to work with, we should discuss my needs…” She closed her eyes and shook her head. “I mean we should discuss our organization’s needs and how he can help us. And of course, we’ll have to interview other candidates.” Simone felt her face heat at her faux pas and didn’t miss the amused look on her partner’s face. She didn’t dare look at Tim.

“Okay, well, let’s talk about our needs, and Tim, you can let us know if you can help us,” Jessica said.

Simone couldn’t believe how flustered she felt being near Tim. But who could blame her? She was acutely conscious of how his wide chest and muscular arms filled his tailored black suit jacket. Relaxed and confident, he discussed with Jessica how his consulting company could assist them. Simone’s breathing quickened when he glanced at her and smiled, causing her eyes to zone in on those chiseled cheekbones that graced his ruggedly handsome face. She groaned within and rubbed her forehead, realizing small pebbles of sweat had formed at her hairline.

What is wrong with me? It’s not like I’ve never seen a good-looking man before. I must be coming down with a cold or something.

“And so when we failed to raise enough money for the expansion,” Simone heard Jessica say, “we went to the bank for a loan, but they turned us down.”

Tim frowned. “I’m surprised. Of course, I would have to look at your books to know more, but based on what you’ve said, it sounds like you guys are running a sound business.”

Simone put her elbow on the table and rested her chin in her hand. She listened as the two continued to talk back and forth. It wasn’t necessary for her to add her two cents since Jess seemed to be doing fine explaining their needs. Tim listened carefully, mentally cataloging all that was said. He was like that in high school as well. As good friends, they had studied together on occasion and even hung out some weekends. What she remembered most—his kindness, and that he was a great listener. Until now, she hadn’t realized how much she missed his friendship.

Her gaze remained on him. She couldn’t get over how good he looked. The moment she walked into the room and saw him, her pulse had tripled, and she wouldn’t be surprised if he’d heard her heart pounding against her chest. He was sexier than she remembered, and those dark, penetrating eyes could draw in the strongest woman. He always did have women vying for his attention, and probably still did since he was even hotter than he was back then.

Stop, stop, stop it. This is Tim Hollister, friend. He’s off-limits. Besides, I’m done with men.

“Anything you want to add, Simone?” Jessica asked.

Simone’s head jerked up at hearing her name. She closed the notebook that sat on the table in front of her. “Uh, no. I think you covered it all.”

Okay, so those of you who have read, Something New – let me hear from you! Those of you who haven’t – what are you waiting for?

Excerpt: Something New

Many of you have asked, “How many more days before your book is released?” Well, ten more days and counting! I’m excited and anxious all in one. It’s like taking your child to school on the first day and hoping that everyone he comes in contact with will love him as much as you do. Okay, maybe it’s not quite the same, but you get the idea.

Here’s a sneak peak of what you have to look forward to:

BACK COVER

Entrepreneur, Simone Edwards, did what any intelligent woman with a ticking biological clock would do: she asked her longtime boyfriend to marry her. Devastated when he turns her down, and fed up with dead-end relationships, Simone swears off men … and takes a vow of celibacy. How hard could it be? She soon learns it’s harder than she thinks when the most irresistible man in the world, Tim Hollister, shows up at her job. She hasn’t seen him in over ten years, and quickly realizes he is a temptation she doesn’t want to resist. But isn’t there some rule about dating your friend? Simone must decide if a romance with Tim is worth risking their friendship, and her reclaimed virginity.

Betrayed by his supermodel ex-girlfriend, who happens to be the mother of his child, Tim Hollister has placed a padlock on his heart. But when Simone, an old high school friend falls back into his life, he soon forgets his promise to stay clear of beautiful women. Simone was always like a sister to him, but he discovers that his feelings for her aren’t very brotherly. He’s captivated by the woman she’s become and wants to take their friendship to the next level – despite her resistance. Tim can’t avoid their new-found passion, and sets out to prove he’s the man for her.

EXCERPT

God! Can this day get any worse?

Simone Edwards hobbled to a wall in Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, dodging swarms of people in the ever-crowded terminal. She didn’t have to look down to know the left heel on her favorite pair of black pumps had broken. It had already been the day from hell. No. Make that the week from hell. So why would the trip home be any different?

She propped herself against the wall, pulled her suitcase close, and took off the shoe she feared was ruined. “Oh, this is just great,” she mumbled at the three-inch heel. Isn’t it enough I have to return home from the Bahamas still single?

Not only had Glen Wallace turned down her marriage proposal, he’d left the island two days early to attend some stupid “emergency meeting at work.” Most men would be flattered their longtime girlfriend asked for their hand in marriage, wouldn’t they? Not him. After spending all their free time together, he suddenly couldn’t get away from her fast enough. And the insensitive jerk left her with the hotel bill! How could I have wasted all those years on him?

Sadness hit her square in the chest. Of all her asinine ideas, proposing to Glen had to be the worst. Tears filled her eyes, and she blinked rapidly to keep them at bay. The last thing she wanted was to have an emotional breakdown in one of the country’s busiest airports. Spotting a bathroom a few feet away, Simone slipped on her shoe and limped toward it.

She passed a custodial worker near the hand dryers, who looked as if she’d rather be someplace else, and found a quiet corner where she could go through her carry-on bag. What I wouldn’t give to be at home in my bed right now. She was at the point of being afraid to do or say anything for fear of something else going wrong.

After finding another pair of shoes, she placed everything back in her suitcase and hurried out of the bathroom. She had barely made it out the door when she ran dead smack into a hard body, lost her balance, and came close to making a total fool of herself. An explosion of pain from the sudden impact shot through her shoulder, but thankfully, a large set of hands grabbed her around the waist before she hit the floor.

“Whoa, are you all right?”

“Oh my God, I am so sorry. I wasn’t paying attent—” she started, but stopped when she looked up and recognized the handsome man holding her. “Tim? Tim Hollister?”

He laughed as recognition showed on his face. “Yeah, it’s me. Simone, girl, I haven’t seen you in years. How are you?”

“Besides clumsy, I’m fine.” She chuckled and rubbed her shoulder. As she adjusted her clothes and righted her suitcase, a sense of calm surrounded her. Tim had always had that effect on her back in high school, before life got complicated.

“Wow, I can’t believe it’s you. It’s been, what, ten years since we’ve seen each other?”

“Yeah, something like that.”

They both noticed they were in the way, and Tim took her by the elbow and maneuvered them out of pedestrian traffic and into a waiting area where there weren’t as many people. Simone took that opportunity to get a better look at him. With the height of a basketball player, the brother was still fine. His smooth toffee skin and intense dark eyes were his best features, but those sensual lips accented by that smile could make a girl forget they were friends.

Something New

Available: April 27, 2012

My Three-book Deal!

It’s been an interesting couple of weeks. A mixture of excitement and anxiousness rolled into one. A few weeks ago I did a couple of blogs, one was entitled: “12 Wishes,” and the other, “Are You Living Your Dreams.” In one of the posts, I stated that I would love to be in an anthology, centered between a couple of my favorite authors – Beverly Jenkins and Brenda Jackson. Though that hasn’t happened…yet, I believe anything is possible!

I also mentioned that I desired to receive a three-book deal. Technically, that hasn’t happened either, but I can hear as clear as day an author friend of mine saying, “Girl, you need to make your own three-book deal!” So, that’s what I’m going to do!

Thanks to some special friends (Chicki Brown, Delaney Diamond, and Alicia McCalla), who have already e-published and have been encouraging me to go that route, I’ve decided to go for it! Though they have been very instrumental in my decision, I can’t forget my wonderful, supportive husband, my amazing critique partners, and one of my dearest sister-friends (all the way in Chicago) for their amazing support! They have read my work and have been waiting a long time for me to quit playing around and get these novels published!

I’m happy to say that I have three romance novels coming out this year! One is a sweet romance, and the other two are romantic suspense. They will first be published as e-books, but will also be available in paperback – a few months after their original release date. I won’t go into great detail about them now, but visit my website for a blurb about each story – www.sharoncooper.net. Also, if you’ve subscribe to this blog, you’ll receive first hand information on some of the steps I’m taking to get published; the highs and lows of the process; and the release dates.

So, stay tuned as I take you on this wonderful journey with me!

Romantic Date Ideas

I’m a sucker for romance, and love coming up with ideas to show My Valentine how much he’s loved. Some of my favorite date ideas include:

Carpet Picnic – I’m not necessarily an outdoors person (unless it involves an ocean), but I love picnics – especially carpet picnics. Note: Though this idea can be used with your significant other, it can also be used with your children, or even some of your girlfriends. But let’s just focus on your significant other for now.

Potential items to include (food or otherwise)

• A blanket
• Beach chairs (the ones that are low to the ground)
• Your favorite foods – Pizza, Hawaiian Belly Buster Burgers (one of my favorites),  wings, Chinese food, crab legs, fish nachos (the list is endless…and you can do a theme carpet picnic if you’d like)
• Fun desserts – Chocolate covered strawberries, smores, strawberry shortcake (in a glass), Garrett’s popcorn, potato chips, etc.
• A fireplace (makes the room very cozy…and can be helpful w/ the smores)
• Candles – always a wonderful addition in setting a certain type of mood
• A bottle of wine (non-alcoholic if you’re not a drinker)
• Rent a movie or play a romantic board game
• Chocolate sauce – I’m sure no explanation is needed J

Weekend Getaway – I think one of my favorite weekend Getaways was a wedding gift from some friends. It was a bed and breakfast at Lazy Cloud Lodge (absolutely WONDERFUL) http://www.lazycloud.com/bed-breakfast/preview-of-all-rooms.html  But note – a night’s stay at a nice hotel can serve the same purpose…although, depending on the hotel, you might have to create the atmosphere you’re going for.

Watch a Sunset (or a sunrise) – Some of my favorite dates were dinner on the beach, watching a sunset (San Diego, L.A, Jamaica etc.)  But I have also seen some amazing sunrises (Cancun, Milwaukee, Chicago, etc).

Dance or Cooking Classes – Some might not find taking a class with your significant other romantic, but trust me – it can be. (Especially if the dance class is a Salsa or Stepping class – two sexy dances). Cooking classes are fun – you learn something…and you can feed each other.

A Romantic Dinner for Two – This can be at your favorite restaurant or even at home.  Though eating out is great (someone else does the cooking), creating a romantic dinner for two at home can be just as wonderful – especially if you prepare the dinner together (don’t forget the candles)

Now, if you had to plan a romantic date, what would it look like?