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Zeph Undercover (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Mon, 20 May 2013 12:05:11 -0400

Stone's Crossing Series

True or False? Allie Wentworth is a small town girl. Zeph Granger is an urban sophisticate. Stone's Crossing is a quiet country town.

All true.

But that's not the whole story. Allie's the town veterinarian. Zeph's an ambitious private detective. Tiny, friendly Stone's Crossing is hiding some dangerous secrets, and Zeph is in town to uncover them. He convinces Allie to help him in spite of their crashed-and-burned almost-romance of a summer ago. He goes undercover as her lover, but someone doesn't like his snooping around. At all.

Zeph is in danger, and so is Allie, but not just from the bad guys. Working with Allie is giving Zeph forever thoughts--and Allie is remembering that there's a good man beneath Zeph's slick surface.

He'll do anything to protect her...but a small mountain town is a far cry from the city jungle he knows so well. Can he do it?

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 314
Word Count: 78187
978-1-61217-759-5 Paperback
978-1-61217-760-1 Digital

Excerpt:

“Stay over there by the door and let me know if you hear your father coming.”

Allie looked mutinous but went to stand by the open door. “Do you really expect something incriminating in those files? A guilty person would hide the files, so if you don’t find anything, you still won’t be convinced. Maybe we should leave now and—”

“Not yet. He might think a locked file is hidden enough.” Not if he was smart, but people made amazing mistakes. Zeph skimmed, aware of time galloping away like a damned horse and finding nothing worth a second look until he hit a folder labeled Discrepancies. The tingle that said he’d found something good made his fingers itch. Something in his expression must have given him away because Allie came to stand beside him and look over his shoulder as he pulled it out of the drawer and opened it.

Empty.

“Damn,” he muttered. “Well, I didn’t really expect…”

“The list you found earlier?” Allie asked. “It must belong in there.”

Zeph picked the tax folders out of the drawer and took them to the desk. “Yeah, it—” he started to say.

“Well, isn’t this interesting.” Wentworth stood in the doorway, his voice hard with icy anger. “Perhaps you would care to explain yourselves?”

Spirit of the Revolution (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Mon, 20 May 2013 12:03:26 -0400

Only divine intervention could have guided Jolena Leigh Michaelsson to the doorstep of a ramshackle manor in Pennsylvania, bringing her face-to-face with the man she has waited her whole life to find. There is just one problem. Mathias McGregor died two centuries ago--

Mathias, Revolutionary War ranger and spy, battles his conscience and his heart when he finds himself falling for the beautiful violinist invading his home. Jolena is mortal and deserves far more than what he as a spirit can offer her.

When Jolena's family motto leads them to unearth a valuable coded message--the very message Mathias died trying to deliver to General Washington--Jolena vows to unravel the mystery surrounding the cryptic document. But someone else wants the message, and he'll stop at nothing to get it, not even murder.

Divine intervention brought them together--will it also allow them to find forever?

Rating: Sensual
Page Count: 384
Word Count: 104242
978-1-61217-763-2 Paperback
978-1-61217-764-9 Digital

Excerpt:

“And—what about you?” Once again, Jo held her breath while she awaited his reply.

Mathias gave her his full attention then. His gaze bore into hers. He sought something, but she couldn’t guess. Nonetheless, the look in his eyes at this moment fanned the embers that had settled into her belly. Finally, he spoke.

“I never found anyone special—while in my mortal state,” he said.

His answer pleased her. “Oh,” however, was all she could think to say in return. Should she add, “Gee, that’s too bad” when she truly didn’t feel that way? She opted to say nothing more.

“And you?” he asked.

The question caught her off guard. How could she explain what she herself could not? She clasped her hands together, laid them on her lap, and toyed with her fingers. The intensity of Mathias’s gaze compelled her to form an answer. “I guess I’m still waiting around to find the unique kind of love my parents shared. I’ve yet to find it.”

The Blue Dolphin (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Mon, 13 May 2013 10:36:36 -0400

When Debbie Williams discovers a dismembered body in the dumpster behind her health spa, she's determined to find out what happened. As a single parent, she must be sure the town she loves is safe for her daughter. Debbie won't be deterred by anyone--not even the ruggedly handsome agent on the case who doesn't appreciate her amateur sleuthing.

After his partner's body is uncovered, DEA agent Jack Davis vows revenge. But three words shouted over the phone before his partner died--azul, delfin, Almagro--are Jack's only clues. Even worse, a sexy blonde spa owner refuses to stay out of his investigation, and the chemistry between them is difficult to ignore.

As danger strikes ever closer, Jack and Debbie must figure out what blue dolphins and a small California desert town have to do with a dangerous drug cartel...all while protecting their hearts from an attraction neither can resist.

Rating: Sensual
Page Count: 296
Word Count: 75106
978-1-61217-792-2 Paperback
978-1-61217-793-9 Digital

Excerpt:

What did he want?

She gestured toward the bed and recalled how he’d stared at her at the meeting. Perspiration began to bead on her brow and upper lip. She moved closer to the doorway. “Go ahead and, ah, lie down. You don’t have to remove clothing if you don’t want to…um, just your boots. Maybe take off your jacket, too. Um, I’ll leave you now,” she said, unable to stop the rush of words. “If you get cold there are blankets folded at the end of the bed. I turn on the treatment switches at the front desk. If you need anything, there’s a buzzer.”

“You don’t stay in here with me?”

“Nope.” Thank goodness. The very last thing she needed would be to sit beside his gorgeous body while the bed undulated. She pointed to a buzzer. “Press that if you get anxious. Remember it’s your private time to relax and to let the vibrations soothe you.”

“Anxious?” He sat on the side of the bed and stared at her, his dark eyes narrowing again.

“Well, some people feel claustrophobic. Most don’t, as a rule. But just in case.”

“Okay.”

“Oh, and turn off your cell phone so you don’t have any disturbances.” She closed the door behind her, pulled in several deep breaths, and scurried back to the desk.

The man had her all on edge and not in a good way. Actually, it was a good way, but one she didn’t want to explore with him. He was all wrong. So big and dark, and she’d bet he had chest hair. In her limited adult love life, she’d never been with a guy who had chest hair. She’d often wondered what it felt like and—

Castillo's Fiery Texas Rose (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Mon, 13 May 2013 10:34:06 -0400

Mary Rose Thornton is the only survivor of an attack that leaves her brother dead. Although investigation suggests he was planning to sell army weapons to Mexican renegades, she knows he would never have done such a thing. Avenging his death and saving the family business by running it herself are a double challenge, and a lawman with a mistaken sense of honor stands in her way.

U.S. Marshal Trace Castillo is committed to keeping the peace, but no badge can protect his heart when it comes to a fiery Texas Rose. His hands are full with a hotheaded Irishwoman determined to find justice. Can he clear her brother's name and locate the stolen rifles before innocent people are murdered?

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 304
Word Count: 77532
978-1-61217-695-6 Paperback
978-1-61217-696-3 Digital

Excerpt:

“Don’t you dare tell me it’s not my right to work,” she hissed. “My brother may be dead, but I own that freight company. It is my blood, my sweat, my life!”

“Your life,” he scoffed. “Your death, Miss Thornton, if you keep up with this foolhardy attempt.”

She flashed him a look of disdain. “You pompous windbag.” Her nostrils flared and color crept into her cheeks. “Don’t you preach to me! I intend to honor my brother’s memory by making Thornton’s the best freight company in Texas.”

Her fire set his blood aflame. Any other woman would have run in the opposite direction. In defiance, she stepped closer, glaring up at him, the color of her eyes deepening from blue to deep indigo. In their depths a sparkling of fire leaped and could not go unchallenged. Unable to control his movements, Trace reached out and grasped her by the waist, his broad hands nearly spanning her middle.

“Oh, yes.” His words tumbled over his lips, deep, throaty, and laced with desire. “You’ll make a name for yourself. Every unmarried man, every scoundrel, and every hot blood in southwest Texas will turn up on your doorstep. They will watch the tilt of your head, the sway of your skirts, and try to catch the shimmer of fire in that fine head of hair.”

Beneath his stare, her eyes widened. Not from fear, but with understanding of what his words meant. He searched her face but didn’t hold back. “They won’t stop there,” he continued, pulling her toward him. “Not until they have a taste of heaven.”

A Rose in No-Man's Land (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Mon, 06 May 2013 13:07:05 -0400

Sister Amy Smithfield is carrying on her family's military tradition in the only way she can, as an Australian Army nurse. Dedicated to her calling, she has sworn off interest in men for the duration of the Great War in Europe. When she literally runs into Mark Tremayne, an English captain in the Australian army, her real struggle begins.

Mark has his own reasons for keeping any relationship with the opposite sex in the casual mode, and he fights to deny his attraction to the petite blonde nurse who stirs his senses beyond the ordinary.

Their battle against love continues from Australia to the Mediterranean to France. When Amy is captured by German soldiers, Mark realizes how much she means to him -- but can he overcome pride and find Amy after his jealous anger pushes her away?

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 328
Word Count: 80910
978-1-61217-785-4 Paperback
978-1-61217-786-1 Digital

Excerpt:

His gut clenched as he waited just off the Rue des Trois Cailloux in Amiens. Six o’clock. Where the hell was that staff car? He lit a cigarette and paced the foyer of the hotel where he had booked two rooms. Would she be all right? What if the Germans had violated her? The thought was a sword thrust through his heart.

“Mark?” The one husky word, sounding as if it had been dredged from deep within her soul, caused him to swing around.

“Amy!” She looked so little and frail standing there in a stained and muddied German uniform, her beautiful hair a tangled mass about her shoulders. “I thought I’d never see you again.” He took a step forward, then abruptly stopped.

Tears welled up in Amy’s eyes. She looked frightful, while Mark was freshly bathed and shaved, his uniform immaculate, boots shined to a glossy finish.

“What’s the matter, darling? What is it?” He opened his arms to her, but she did not run into them as she usually did.

“I’m so dirty,” she sobbed.

“Amy, you little fool.” He pulled her close. “After the hell you’ve been through? Oh, God, how like a woman to worry about her appearance.”

“You’re so clean,” she blubbered, burrowing her face into his chest.

“I had to tidy up before going to Headquarters.”

She raised her head. “If it hadn’t been for loving you so much and wanting to see you again, I wouldn’t have survived.”

Because of Rebecca (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Mon, 06 May 2013 13:05:16 -0400

American Heroes Series

Rebecca Davis promises to raise her dying sister's newborn son as her own. She also agrees to help a female slave reach freedom. It's the right thing to do, but can she trust her fellow conspirators without endangering her future or her son? Her handsome contact, Jared Hollingsworth, won't discuss their mission, but her attraction to him has Rebecca fearing she will endanger not only her freedom--but her heart.

Jared Hollingsworth refuses to use slave labor. Despite this sentiment, he's been able to keep his plantation going, even while mourning the death of his wife and son. Now, thanks to his notorious cousin, Jared is in danger of losing Oak Hill. When he meets Rebecca Davis, he isn't ready to love again, but she may be just what he needs to save his home and his heart. When he discovers Rebecca embroiled in a conspiracy, will he follow his heart and dare to love again? Or will he risk her heart to save his beloved plantation?

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 288
Word Count: 68422
978-1-61217-751-9 Paperback
978-1-61217-752-6 Digital

Excerpt:

“Do you like me, Jared?”

Her unexpected touch seared his flesh and he hesitated a moment trying to read her thoughts before he answered. “Yes. I like you. Why do you ask?”

He could feel the rise and fall of her breasts as she stood so close to him. Her emerald eyes were dark and her lips were pink, inviting him to taste them if he dared.

My God yes, I like you. Inwardly he groaned, but did he dare to confess his desire to her?

“Come with me.” He entwined his fingers with hers and led her quickly into the library past the many bookshelves of leather bound volumes. He walked over to an alcove for privacy. Turning around, he pulled her close until she was pressed against him. “I like you far more than I should for the time I’ve known you, Rebecca.”

She swallowed. “You do?”

With his free hand he cupped her cheek, caressing it gently. He rubbed the pad of his rough thumb over her lips. They trembled in response and he lowered his head, nibbling at her mouth with small kisses until she responded in kind. Without warning, he parted her lips with his tongue and captured her mouth, exploring its depths.

Her hand crept up his arm to his neck, holding his head so he couldn’t pull away. Her fingers speared through his damp hair, sending shivers down his spine.

His body hardened and he groaned, pulling away before he lost his head completely.

Unlock the Truth (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 12:01:08 -0400

Desert Heat Series

Dena Roman needs closure. Three months ago, her sister's murdered body was found in the California desert. When a second body is found at the same site, Dena jeopardizes her public relations position to go undercover and investigate. But falling for the main suspect isn't part of her plan.

Zeke Cabrera needs help. He sold a portion of his family's Three C's Estates to keep his citrus farm afloat, but when bodies are unearthed on the site, he's suspected of murder. Help comes in the form of a communications expert who makes all the difference in his life and business--and in his heart.

Amidst an attack on her life and run-ins with a cantankerous foreman, Dena digs for the truth, even as she forms a strong bond with Zeke. But can their newly found love survive all the deep secrets hidden at Three C's Estates?

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 336
Word Count: 82681
978-1-61217-769-4 Paperback
978-1-61217-770-0 Digital

Excerpt:

“Someone shot at me!” Dena rushed toward him. Her bottom lip trembled. “Who…who would do that?”

Terror was written across her face. He reached out a hand, drew it back. “Are you hurt? Where did it happen?”

“Just after I drove onto your private road—”

“What? Wait a minute.” He grabbed her elbow and eased her into a chair. She dropped a coat hanger of clothes, a pair of high heels, her purse and laptop onto the foyer floor.

“I’m a bit shaky, but I’m not hurt,” Dena mumbled, and lowered her head to almost between her knees.

“I get water,” Irma said, and hurried to the kitchen.

“Tell me exactly what happened.” Zeke kneeled on the tile floor beside her and stroked the top of her arm.

She raised her head. “There’s a hole in the side of my car. I…I could have…could have been killed. Two shots.” She raised two fingers then took in a huge gulp of air.

Zeke took the water glass from Irma.

“Sip it,” he said to Dena, and held the glass to her lips. “You’ve had an awful shock.” He turned his head. “Grab my phone, please, Irma.”

Irma returned a couple of minutes later and handed him his BlackBerry. He still hadn’t made much sense of Dena’s ramblings.

“Who would try to kill me?” Dena asked again. She took the glass from him and drained it. Irma bustled over and retrieved it.

“I’ve no idea. But we’ll find out.”

Apocalyptic Moon (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:59:19 -0400

After the Bane Series

Dr. Dora Adler's life has been in disarray since the beginning of the zombie apocalypse, but when she gets bitten by one of the undead, her whole world is turned upside down. Held captive in a secret underground lab, the tall, muscular hunk in the next cell is her only hope for salvation. Unfortunately, he claims to be a werewolf. Yeah, and she's supposedly a witch.

Dirk Gunderson is an alpha Arbor pack werewolf. Captured and collared, he's sold to the zombie lab in hopes his blood serum can create a vaccine. He needs to escape, but not without the hot little brunette witch.

In the midst of enemy werewolves and the hordes of undead, Dirk and Dora's sexual tension ignites a blaze hotter than the desert highway. Along their journey, they battle the inevitable: a werewolf must never take a witch as a mate.

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 362
Word Count: 90189
978-1-61217-737-3 Paperback
978-1-61217-738-0 Digital

Excerpt:

“My first lycanthropy case.” The guy was psycho, but it didn’t matter, he was immune to Z-phage. He’d be another lab rat to experiment on. Maybe they’d give her a break and poke him instead, giving her injection bruises time to heal. Still, he was mentally ill and needed her help.

Mansfield chuckled. “More like lupus or rather Canis lupus.”

Dirk corrected. “Homo sapiens lupus.”

She rolled her eyes and huffed, “Can I change rooms? Maybe one with a view?”

Dirk gave her a seductive gaze. “Actually, my view is stunning.”

Her knees weakened and her voice disappeared. For once in her life, she had no smart-ass comeback.

Mansfield smiled. “All other rooms are reserved for the undead.” He unlocked her door and dragged her out. “Time for your daily shower.”

“Hey, take me along. I don’t mind sharing a shower with the doc.” Dirk winked at her.

Had he forgotten that he was strangled with a torture collar, locked up in a rat cage and oh yeah, the outside world overrun by zombies? It wasn’t the time to flirt.

As Mansfield escorted her out, she twisted around and glared at Dirk. “Bite me!”

“I promise.” He cupped his hands over his mouth and howled.

Damn real. She pulled away from Mansfield. “Great, I’m stuck in a psych ward.”

****

Dirk paced his sealed prison cell. He sniffed. The stench of rotting flesh seeped through the walls. This fucking place was infested with zombies. They must be keeping a zombie zoo. One breach and they’d be overrun. Soon the hot little brunette would fall prey to the zombies. He needed an escape plan. ASAP.

The soldier that escorted Jaeger out had the virus. The soldier reeked of fear. He hid his recent bite. Oh well, not sharing. Only he and the woman mattered. He needed the access code since the damn door was werewolf proof.

Mad Scientist Mansfield definitely thought Dora could mate a werewolf. Why hadn’t Jaeger mentioned that was impossible?

Reckless Abandon (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 09:37:11 -0400

The Shadow Soldier Series

Filled with regret over his rocky past, Reece Morgan has no desire to go home after ten years away. But when Billie Bradshaw becomes the target of killers, he returns to defend her with a vengeance born of salvation. He charges to the rescue, only to realize she's the bait to tempt him into the open.

Billie has a choice to make. She can risk violent death, or allow the man she considers her worst nightmare--the man she's already loved and lost, the man who fell off the grid a long time ago, taking her heart along for the ride--to keep her safe. What could be worse? Maybe the fact he's unknowingly brought death to her door.

As Billie and Reece follow the twisted trail of a psychotic mind, their reignited passion takes a front row seat in their struggle to stay alive.

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 254
Word Count: 67769
978-1-61217-822-6 Paperback
978-1-61217-823-3 Digital

Excerpt:

She instantly recognized those green, green eyes; his chiselled features; and a five o’clock shadow that seemed to be a permanent fixture on his jaw. Ten years older, he was a breathtaking version of the teenager she’d known. The teenager she’d loved. The teenager who’d scored and bolted, taking her heart along with him for the ride.

It wasn’t a dream at all, but her worst nightmare. And why was a gun clipped to his belt?

She cleared her throat and found her voice. “You look like a hundred-mile stretch of bad road, Rocket. What are you doing here?”

He cracked a smile displaying white, even teeth. Moving to the foot of the bed, the air around him hinted of sandalwood and peppermint. “It’s nice to see you too, Billie. I see you’re still styling your hair with a stun gun.”

Actually, her hair didn’t feel half bad when she ran her fingers through it in a self-conscious gesture. Oh, sure, it was long, wild, and curly, but at least it was brushed—except for where a mountain of bandages was taped behind her left ear. What is that?

“Not fair, Reece, like I’ve had time for the salon.” She tried to hide her confusion by pulling herself higher in the bed. Starbursts flashed behind her eyes. Her vision tunnelled and her stomach heaved. “Whoa…”

“Be careful. There were complications—the bullet wound is infected.”

Bullet wound?

She didn’t move, waited for the dizziness to subside while she soaked up Reece’s words. The ache in her head and her sense of helplessness said he was telling the truth.

Moonlit Rescue

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Tue, 21 May 2013 10:48:51 -0400

Monsters don't exist. At least that's what geologist, Kira Simons always believed. That is until she is kidnapped by a silver-skinned man claiming to be not only a werewolf but her mate as well.

Half-werewolf Vale Convel spends his days trapped between man and beast. Always the outsider, he relies on instinct rather than useless emotions. He goes against his pack when he saves the woman he has been ordered to kill.

Faced with overwhelming odds they must learn not only to trust in each other but also in themselves. Can Kira let go of her independence to be Vale's mate? Can Vale overcome his lack of confidence in time to save Kira and be the leader he was destined to be?

Rating: Sensual
Page Count: 76
Word Count: 19226
978-1-61217-692-5 Digital

Excerpt:

She hung on his every word, not moving, not blinking, even though deep in her mind she knew something was off. One second she was fighting, and the next she was craving the haze.

He pressed two fingers to her temple. “I can see, hear and smell everything around us. There is a tiny ant crawling on the baseboard behind you.

“I can smell the rose-scented perfume you put on yesterday morning, but unfortunately it is being ruined by the garbage in the parking lot where someone threw away some cheap Italian take-out.” He moved his face closer, their noses almost touching.

She experienced everything he said down to the acidic marinara sauce burning the back of her throat.

His voice became low, rough and jagged. “My influence is so powerful over you that I could get you to do anything with me, including mate with me if I wanted.”

At the thought of making love to him, her insides flooded with need. Her mouth watered, preparing itself for his lips to meld with hers.

Suddenly, he turned and let go of her.

She fell to the floor. With the trance broken, her desire faded as reality cleared her mind.

“They’ll kill you the first chance they get and I couldn’t let that happen.” He stood above her.

“Why would you care what happens to me as long as your pack is safe?” She crouched down, needing time to process everything. Belief without facts went against her nature. He wanted to kill her and take her property, leaving her with nothing.

“I have chosen you to be my mate.” His answer was final and laced with possession.

Captive Bride

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Tue, 21 May 2013 10:51:45 -0400

Kidnapped at the altar on her wedding day by masked men and whisked away up into the mountains, Abigail O'Sullivan fears for her life. She recognizes her kidnapper--an Indian boy she fell in love with years ago, just before they were torn apart.

Davy Larson seeks revenge for his father's murder. When he discovers that Abby's father now owns his land, he seeks answers to his questions, and to get those answers, he takes something Samuel O'Sullivan cherishes--his daughter.

Reunited under dangerous circumstances, can Abigail care for a man who wants to take her father's life? Will Davy's feelings and desire for his long-lost love withstand the taboos of society? Or can their love be captured for all time?

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 129
Word Count: 32384
978-1-61217-808-0 Digital

Excerpt:

He grabbed her arms and pulled her to her feet. “Take your dress off.”

His words sparked life into her. Her blue eyes darkened. “No. I won’t.”

“You take it off, or I’ll do it for you.” He stepped closer.

“You wouldn’t dare! My father—”

“Isn’t here. Now take off the dress.”

She backed up. “What are you going to do?”

While Davy really wanted to take her in his arms and kiss her until she was warmed from head to toe, and then kiss every other part of her, he merely shook his head. “Don’t worry. I’d rather lay with a she-wolf than an O’Sullivan.”

Her eyes widened, and she lifted her chin a notch. “Why, you, you bastard!”

She balled her hand into a fist and swung at him, but he was ready. With a low laugh, he captured her fist. “Disappointed?”

Her blue eyes sparked blue fire, and she struggled to free her hand.

“Of course, I guess I could reconsider if you really wanted me to.” Her face turned a deep red, and he thought she would explode any second. He leaned over until his lips hovered inches above her. “Do you want me to reconsider?”

She said nothing, but her lips parted. The pink tip of her tongue licked her lips, sending ripples of awareness down the entire length of him. He wanted to kiss her, wanted to taste her lips, and caress every curve of her body, had wanted to for a long time, had even dreamed of it. But it would never happen. Especially after this. If he didn’t end up dead, he’d probably rot in a jail cell. Still, what was done was done. It was too late to change it. He’d made his decision, and now he had to live with it.

Because of Rebecca

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Thu, 16 May 2013 15:57:24 -0400

Available in Print

American Heroes Series

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 288
Word Count: 68422
978-1-61217-751-9 Paperback
978-1-61217-752-6 Digital

Excerpt:

“Do you like me, Jared?”

Her unexpected touch seared his flesh and he hesitated a moment trying to read her thoughts before he answered. “Yes. I like you. Why do you ask?”

He could feel the rise and fall of her breasts as she stood so close to him. Her emerald eyes were dark and her lips were pink, inviting him to taste them if he dared.

My God yes, I like you. Inwardly he groaned, but did he dare to confess his desire to her?

She swallowed. “You do?”

Her hand crept up his arm to his neck, holding his head so he couldn’t pull away. Her fingers speared through his damp hair, sending shivers down his spine.

His body hardened and he groaned, pulling away before he lost his head completely.

Collector's Item

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:02:20 -0400

Alpha were-jaguar, Katarina "KT" Marant is trained to protect the pride so when her aunt disappears, KT naturally takes up the hunt. Her suspicion settles on the Collectors, humans who view shapeshifters as the ultimate big game.

Peyton Allers can't believe he's got to blow his cover to rescue a shapeshifter "princess." Even harder to believe is that she wants to stage her own kidnapping in order to catch the leader of the Collectors and find her aunt.

Everything goes sideways when KT is kidnapped for real and by someone she never suspected. Will Peyton find her before time runs out? Or will she become a true Collector's Item?

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 193
Word Count: 47259
978-1-61217-745-8 Digital

Excerpt:

A lone light shone above an open gate in a high chain-link fence at the far end of the hangar. Andi growled, uneasy. The shadows between the cars could hide an army. As if to compensate for the ringing in her ears from the gun battle inside coupled with the roar of jet engines, KT’s eyes and nose kicked into overdrive.

Blood! KT eased up enough to peer through the windshield of a large sedan. But whose?

The whine of jet engines faded away, and in the buzzing silence, a car engine snarled to life. Tires squealed somewhere to her left. She flinched back from the glare of headlights as a low-slung sports car spun out of a parking space.

“Stop!” Her attention snapped to her right at the sound of Peyton’s voice.

Over the hood of the sedan, she saw Peyton standing behind the front end of a pickup truck about midway down the opposite lane, a gun aimed at the car. The car accelerated, and he fired. A shot from inside the car made Peyton stagger. He held his position and fired a couple more times. The car zigzagged toward Peyton and two more shots spun Peyton around to disappear behind the truck.

“No!” She sprinted toward the truck, keeping low, and with one eye on the sports car as it raced toward the open gate in the rear fence. In the glare of the overhead light, she glimpsed Torne hunched low over the wheel. He made a sharp right turn just outside the gate and, for a split second, KT saw a face through the passenger window, staring back.

KT stumbled to a stop. Patricia? Just a flash of an oval face surrounded by a cloud of dark hair. KT’s heartbeat sped up. Patricia!

A Rose in No-Man's Land

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:07:03 -0400

Available in Print

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 328
Word Count: 80910
978-1-61217-785-4 Paperback
978-1-61217-786-1 Digital

Excerpt:

“Mark?” The one husky word, sounding as if it had been dredged from deep within her soul, caused him to swing around.

Tears welled up in Amy’s eyes. She looked frightful, while Mark was freshly bathed and shaved, his uniform immaculate, boots shined to a glossy finish.

“What’s the matter, darling? What is it?” He opened his arms to her, but she did not run into them as she usually did.

“I’m so dirty,” she sobbed.

“Amy, you little fool.” He pulled her close. “After the hell you’ve been through? Oh, God, how like a woman to worry about her appearance.”

“You’re so clean,” she blubbered, burrowing her face into his chest.

“I had to tidy up before going to Headquarters.”

She raised her head. “If it hadn’t been for loving you so much and wanting to see you again, I wouldn’t have survived.”

A Midsummer Night's Demon

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Tue, 14 May 2013 11:08:15 -0400

Daelyn Torres is determined to break free from her over-protective brother. Born a demon, she knows little of the world outside her home and work. A chance blind date promises adventure and perhaps a walk on the wild side. But her night on the town takes a deadly turn when she is gravely injured and left to die. A handsome, mysterious stranger comes to her rescue and brings with him a passion she has never experienced.

A dark guardian sent to investigate a series of missing person cases, vampire Ky Robinson is ready for anything, except the insatiable desire that engulfs him when he meets Daelyn. He senses their destiny is intertwined and vows to do everything in his power to keep her safe. The only problem: demons and vampires go together like fire and ice.

Daelyn never believed in things that went bump in the night but is more than willing to be seduced by the sexy vampire who marks both her body and soul. Will Ky be able to keep them both alive long enough to prove that vampires and demons can be so much more than friends?

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 143
Word Count: 35861
978-1-61217-783-0 Digital

Excerpt:

He ghosted behind the couple. Following them on silent feet, staying deep within the shadows of the buildings. Ky noted the way the woman walked as they made their way along the sidewalk. Her legs appeared unsteady, most of her weight supported by the male’s arm around her waist, which seemed strange because she had not consumed all that much alcohol at the bar. Only two glasses of wine, by his count. The agent heard her speaking throughout the night and she had enunciated clearly. Yet now she seemed unsteady, and her words slurred as they left her lips.

She stumbled. Catching on a bit of raised sidewalk, her shoe flew off behind her in Ky’s direction. She turned and looked over her shoulder. When her eyes met his, Ky’s heart hitched in his chest, time froze.

The bronzed skin of her heart-shaped face appeared flawless. Long dark haired flowed around her shoulders with the turn of her head. Her chocolate eyes captured his, holding his gaze. The fall of her lashes broke the spell, creating dark crescents on her delicate cheekbones. Her petite nose led to full, pouty lips that sent a surge of desire through his body. His sure strides faltered under the weight of her beauty. She was a goddess.

And she was in grave danger.

The English Lily

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Tue, 14 May 2013 11:02:59 -0400

Tales of the Scrimshaw Doll

Lady Kendra Frazier is devastated. The love of her life just married another, and now all she desires is to be as far away as possible. She takes passage on the first boat leaving the harbor and finds herself on the way to America, still hiding a guilty secret.

Viscount Lawrie, Joseph Pinetti Gray, is facing financial ruin and needs a wealthy heiress. Luckily for him, Kendra's impetuous nature has handed him the fortuity he requires to save his family from downfall, and he pursues her once their ship is underway.

But Joseph's carefully cultivated plans come to a grinding halt when he finds himself falling in love instead of arranging a marriage of convenience. How can an old secondhand doll save the day?

Rating: Sweet
Page Count: 134
Word Count: 30872
978-1-61217-731-1 Digital

Excerpt:

He rushed over. “Thank God,” he whispered. He crouched down next to her. “Thank God,” he said again, touching his forehead to hers.

“Joseph? Lord Lawrie?” Her voice cracked. Her white glove was no longer white. He wished he could have protected her from that.

Leaning back, he peeled the stained fabric away. Her hand clenched. “My hands—”

He brushed his lips over the tiny scars. “Your hands are perfect,” he said. “We’ll have to marry, you know.”

“Married. I’ve dreamed of marrying,” she whispered, smiling. Her eyes were dry, but in them he read the shock and fear.

Something tight squeezed Joseph’s chest, and he found he could hardly breathe. Death hovered over them. While he might fail in creating bliss for Kendra’s last moments on this earth, he could offer her the whimsical fairytale.

Joseph dropped her hand and cupped her head with both hands. “Lady Kendra Frazier, would you do me the honor of becoming my wife, mademoiselle, s’il vous plaît?”

With a stately incline of her head, she replied with a trembling smile. “I shall be honored, Viscount Lawrie, Chevalier Joseph Pinetti Gray. Lord Hardwick’s Marriage Act was put in force in Scotland in fifty-four, so we’ve no need to post the banns.” A small hysterical laugh erupted. “Shall we escape to Gretna Green, my lord?”

Unlock the Truth

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Thu, 09 May 2013 14:52:19 -0400

Available in Print

Desert Heat Series

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 336
Word Count: 82681
978-1-61217-769-4 Paperback
978-1-61217-770-0 Digital

Excerpt:

“Someone shot at me!” Dena rushed toward him. Her bottom lip trembled. “Who…who would do that?”

Terror was written across her face. He reached out a hand, drew it back. “Are you hurt? Where did it happen?”

“Just after I drove onto your private road—”

“What? Wait a minute.” He grabbed her elbow and eased her into a chair. She dropped a coat hanger of clothes, a pair of high heels, her purse and laptop onto the foyer floor.

“I’m a bit shaky, but I’m not hurt,” Dena mumbled, and lowered her head to almost between her knees.

“I get water,” Irma said, and hurried to the kitchen.

“Tell me exactly what happened.” Zeke kneeled on the tile floor beside her and stroked the top of her arm.

She raised her head. “There’s a hole in the side of my car. I…I could have…could have been killed. Two shots.” She raised two fingers then took in a huge gulp of air.

Zeke took the water glass from Irma.

“Sip it,” he said to Dena, and held the glass to her lips. “You’ve had an awful shock.” He turned his head. “Grab my phone, please, Irma.”

Irma returned a couple of minutes later and handed him his BlackBerry. He still hadn’t made much sense of Dena’s ramblings.

“Who would try to kill me?” Dena asked again. She took the glass from him and drained it. Irma bustled over and retrieved it.

“I’ve no idea. But we’ll find out.”

Apocalyptic Moon

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Thu, 09 May 2013 15:13:55 -0400

Available in Print

After the Bane Series

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 362
Word Count: 90189
978-1-61217-737-3 Paperback
978-1-61217-738-0 Digital

Excerpt:

Mansfield chuckled. “More like lupus or rather Canis lupus.”

Dirk corrected. “Homo sapiens lupus.”

She rolled her eyes and huffed, “Can I change rooms? Maybe one with a view?”

Dirk gave her a seductive gaze. “Actually, my view is stunning.”

Her knees weakened and her voice disappeared. For once in her life, she had no smart-ass comeback.

Mansfield smiled. “All other rooms are reserved for the undead.” He unlocked her door and dragged her out. “Time for your daily shower.”

“Hey, take me along. I don’t mind sharing a shower with the doc.” Dirk winked at her.

Had he forgotten that he was strangled with a torture collar, locked up in a rat cage and oh yeah, the outside world overrun by zombies? It wasn’t the time to flirt.

As Mansfield escorted her out, she twisted around and glared at Dirk. “Bite me!”

“I promise.” He cupped his hands over his mouth and howled.

Damn real. She pulled away from Mansfield. “Great, I’m stuck in a psych ward.”

****

Mad Scientist Mansfield definitely thought Dora could mate a werewolf. Why hadn’t Jaeger mentioned that was impossible?

Bayou Born

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Thu, 09 May 2013 15:17:19 -0400

Branna Lind's self-esteem rests at the bottom of the Mississippi River. She canceled her "wedding of the decade," though she isn't saying why. She wants life on her own terms, no ready-made job in the family business: no safety net of close-knit kin, and no more betrayal.

College professor James Newbern prizes his bachelorhood. Experience has taught him beautiful women are high-maintenance trouble and Branna fits that type. He is happy to avoid her until the college vice president assigns him to mentor the newest hire--Branna.

Branna is on her way to a new life, but will the scars of the past send her running from love? Even if she stands her ground, can she convince James that she truly is his "type"?

Rating: Sensual
Page Count: 320
Word Count: 77531
978-1-61217-820-2 Paperback
978-1-61217-821-9 Digital

Excerpt:

Branna closed her phone and turned to James. “I’m grateful for the help. You’ve got stuff to do, so please don’t feel obligated to stay.” In truth, she hated to see him leave. Being close to him, despite her injuries, made her pulse beat stronger. Faster. She could finally admit to herself, there was only one reason for that, even if she wasn’t ready to speak the words aloud.

“I’ll have some food delivered for you. I’ve a class this afternoon. I’ll call you later this evening.”

He surprised her when he moved close and cradled her face with his hands. His warm lips pressed firmly against hers. She leaned in and kissed him back, wishing she could melt into his arms and hold him tight forever. The accident had brought focus to her mind and clarity to her heart. Being near him heightened each of her senses. Her toes curled. In his arms, the connection to him ran deep.

He touched her as though he cherished her. Tender and light. She loved that about him. Her heart skipped several beats. Her pulse pounded faster. Quivering sensations flooded her body.

This was love. The real thing.

James owned her heart.

Help Sessions

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Tue, 07 May 2013 16:04:03 -0400

Chemistry major Roy Jensen isn't looking for romance. He's having trouble with a difficult class and needs to get at least a high B to keep his advisor happy. When his all-male study group proves useless, he joins the brightest students, the only two women in class, for their study sessions. Heather Kallin is persuaded by her friend to help Roy but makes it clear to him she isn't interested in his attention. Sure, he's made an impression, from his friendliness to his extreme capability in the lab, but her trust in men was shattered once and she refuses to allow any two-legged male too close, ever again. Can Roy convince her his love is unconditional, no matter her secret?

Rating: Sweet
Page Count: 37
Word Count: 8304
978-1-61217-733-5 Digital

Excerpt:

“Excuse me, ladies, do you know where...” Roy began, but the blonde with perfect wavy hair, painted red lips, and a distracting figure accented by her tight-fitting sweater, interrupted him.

“Did you hear that, Heather? He called us ladies.” Heather, a tall slender redhead, adjusted her steel-rimmed glasses but remained focused on the p-chem problems set, not even looking up when Roy spoke. Her lips, full and sensual, remained curved downward.

“I’m looking for Willie. He’s the chem E. who sits next to me in lecture. Short, unruly black hair, horn-rimmed glasses—”

“And buck teeth. Yeah. I just saw him heading for the smart alecks, to join them.” The blonde pointed at the cubicle where Roy had just received his boot.

“Oh.” That dashed his last hope for help.

Twice the Trouble

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Tue, 07 May 2013 15:39:56 -0400

Lacey Carlyle has worked for years to create the perfect blend of home, business and family. Now she risks losing everything when the land she farms is bought by the man who abandoned her thirteen years ago.

Alex has never understood why Lacey walked away from him. Now, he holds the deed to her farm and intends to make her pay. The only problem - two kids weren't part of the plan.

Jenna and Jarrod may not see eye-to-eye but they are both determined to find happiness for their mom and keep their home safe. Can Lacey and Alex put their pasts behind them and embrace a future together?

Rating: Sensual
Page Count: 242
Word Count: 61455
978-1-61217-798-4 Digital

Excerpt:

Lacey let her legs dangle over the end of the dock. The pink twilight sky made the surface of the lake look like a sheet of lavender tinted glass. If she had to leave the Double J, the lake was what she’d miss most. She’d never lived in a place where she couldn’t see the water from her window. But she’d decided that if she did have to move, it would be to a new town. She’d make a fresh start. She’d go to a place where people didn’t know every detail of her past. Her kids shouldn’t have to hear gossip about her.

Jerrod was clearly ashamed of her. That had been the worst pain she’d ever experienced. Then, to solidify his low opinion of her, she’d struck him. She wished she’d never gotten out of bed that morning.

Alex’s footsteps sounded on the wooden planks’ but she didn’t turn around. She was too embarrassed. He sat on the corner of the dock with his back against the rail post, facing her right side.

“If you’re thinking of jumping in the lake to end it all, let me know in advance.” He stretched out his legs and crossed his ankles. “These shoes set me back a couple hundred bucks. I’d want a chance to take them off before I dive in after you. There’s also my wallet and cell phone to consider.”

Alex always could make her smile.

“I’ve never heard Superman complain about having his cape dry-cleaned,” she replied. “I’ve never seen Batman ask for time to remove his utility belt. The Incredible Hulk never asks for a safety pin. If you’re going to be a hero, you’ve got to be tough.”

Alex’s eyes widened. “So that’s who you’ve been dating since I’ve been gone.”

Fender Bender Blues

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Thu, 02 May 2013 08:13:09 -0400

Rachel Bennett loved her job until the day she finds herself doubting her choices. Now she's hunting for a new career, but starting over isn't easy. Her plan is simple --no distractions until she finds her dream job. She didn't plan on fate throwing her a curveball in the form of a fender bender with a sexy guy in an expensive suit.

Craig Larsen is a wealthy, successful business owner with a plan of his own: survive his current PR nightmare and stay away from his overly determined ex-girlfriend. His need for control and personal success is turned upside down when he meets Rach, a sassy redhead who can't drive.

Soon they find themselves battling with Rach's grumpy old neighbor, toilet-papering the trees of a high-school nemesis, and fighting over the last slice of pizza. Can two very different people plus one fender bender equal a chance at forever?

Romantic Comedy
Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 358
Word Count: 92332
978-1-61217-741-0 Paperback
978-1-61217-742-7 Digital

Excerpt:

“Now what?”

“Nothing.” Rach sniffed.

Craig shifted to eye her warily. “Since when do you answer me with single words?”

“Since I decided I’m not talking to you,” she answered with a shrug, crumpling up the white paper wrapper from her sub.

Craig leaned his face in close to her neck and enjoyed the startled jerk of her shoulders. Her eyes opened wide in surprise. His breath shifted a few strands of hair at the nape of her neck as he whispered, “Why, because you want me?”

“You’re incorrigible,” she said, breathless, her cheeks flushed.

She’s enjoying this. The thought pleased him. Rach was on her back beside him now, her eyes closed. He glanced around the park to see if anyone was watching. No one was. He could swoop in for a kiss and no one would catch him. No one would care, he told himself. She won’t mind...

“I can feel you staring.”

Craig smiled down at her. “So what.”

She peeked at him with one green eye. “So stop it.” “And if I don’t?” Maybe she’d tackle him, push him down on the blanket and...

She didn’t. She promptly closed her eye and went back to pretending indifference. “I’ll hit you, that’s what.”

Reckless Abandon

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Thu, 02 May 2013 08:09:35 -0400

Available in Print

The Shadow Soldier Series

As Billie and Reece follow the twisted trail of a psychotic mind, their reignited passion takes a front row seat in their struggle to stay alive.

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 254
Word Count: 67769
978-1-61217-822-6 Paperback
978-1-61217-823-3 Digital

Excerpt:

It wasn’t a dream at all, but her worst nightmare. And why was a gun clipped to his belt?

She cleared her throat and found her voice. “You look like a hundred-mile stretch of bad road, Rocket. What are you doing here?”

“Be careful. There were complications—the bullet wound is infected.”

Bullet wound?

She didn’t move, waited for the dizziness to subside while she soaked up Reece’s words. The ache in her head and her sense of helplessness said he was telling the truth.

May Day Magic

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:50:58 -0400

Single mother and school nurse Diane Avery is on overload, too busy caring for her children and everyone else's to consider any TLC for herself. Her back seizes in front of hunky nursery owner Marc Stafford, and he rushes to her aid. Self-sufficient Diane laughs off the attention.

After a divorce, with his son now heading to college, Marc Stafford is faced with an empty home and heart. Intrigued by the school nurse, Marc plans a May Day surprise to bring them together.

Can Diane let Marc into her world? Can Marc find the courage to step out of his role of single father and bachelor? Will a simple tradition dedicated to flowers and affection bring the two together and set them on a path to love?

Rating: Sweet
Page Count: 54
Word Count: 11347
978-1-61217-658-1 Digital

Excerpt:

“Hey, Diane.”

She stilled for a moment, the husky male voice obliterating every other awareness. Wet tissue in hand, she turned.

Her dark-haired daydream stood leaning against the doorjamb of her office. A frisson of response at seeing him live in the flesh leaped through her. “Hey, Marc,” she said in a stage whisper. Raising a hand, she stepped toward her desk. “Come on in.”

Walking toward her, Marc beamed a smile that spread over her like the new floodlights on the football field. Her pulse kicked up.

His gaze centered on the sleeping boy, and he stopped.

“It’s okay.” She gestured him in and, incapable of concealing her pleasure, shot him a wide smile.

He stepped closer.

She caught his irresistible scent—fresh, outdoorsy, a hint of lime. If only she had a student file or something to occupy her hands. Was something developing between them? She wished she knew if she had a valid reason to become all thumbs and blushes.

She leaned against her desk, crossing one pink-polished foot over the other in a pose she hoped looked nonchalant. “How did your program go?” At least, her voice didn’t betray her, sounding level and nurse-competent. After years of doing the presentation, no doubt Marc had it down. His support of the community was a trait she loved about him.

Loved about him? She swallowed a gulp. OMG! Once again, impersonating a girl in middle school! She blinked, steeling herself not to react to the fracas in her brain.

Dreams of Gold

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:58:16 -0400

Lawmen and Outlaws Series

Easterner Ciara Morrissey travels west to honor a sacred promise to her mother and locate her fortune-seeking father. Three years of acting as caretaker to her grandparents and mother until their deaths has created a thirst in Ciara to see what the wide world has to offer.

Sheriff Quinn Riley has been tracking the Irish charlatan who swindled half the population of Bull City, Wyoming. He's determined to stick close to the opinionated woman who arrived on the runaway stagecoach. Within only a few hours, she's got the town in an uproar by making inquires about his prime suspect. He's duty-bound to keep her safe, even when being close to the green-eyed beauty sets off a stampede in his heart.

Rating: Sensual
Page Count: 106
Word Count: 26362
978-1-61217-750-2 Digital

Excerpt:

Quinn glimpsed a flash of a well-shaped calf sheathed in a dark stocking and purple petticoats, and then a rounded bottom in green cloth filled his vision. He clasped hands around her trim waist and lifted her the remaining three feet to the ground. In case she was still shaky from the panicky ride, he allowed his hands to linger a bit longer. At least, that’s what he told himself.

“Thank you, sir.” Easing from his grasp, she turned and tugged down the hem of her jacket. “Where might I get that drink of water?”

Her hat tilted at a crazy angle, and waves of auburn hair hung around her face. Rather than unkempt, she appeared innocent and vulnerable. Like someone who needed his attention. He shook his head at the errant thought and gestured. “Uh, your hat is...”

“My hat?” She lifted her hands to where it should have been and then patted gently until she touched it. With a few movements, she tucked her hair under the hat and secured it atop her head. “I apologize for my disheveled appearance, Sheriff.”

Warrior Rogue (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:25:32 -0400

The Drift Lords Series

She seems like everything he despises--until her beauty challenges his warrior's heart.

When fashion designer Jennifer Dyhr loses her lead actor for a video-game commercial, a replacement literally drops from the sky. Reluctant to let him leave, she hires him as a model for her studio. But when terrorists attack their flight home, Jen must awaken powers she didn't know she had to protect them both. Now will she be able to keep her heart safe from the sensual man beside her?

When space ops warrior Paz Hadar falls through a spatial rift onto Jen's set, he soon realizes she is essential to his mission. Not only must he protect her, his success depends upon her special powers. But as they struggle to stay one step ahead of the enemy, he discovers that fighting his attraction to Jen is as much a challenge as keeping them both alive.

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 410
Word Count: 100668
978-1-61217-739-7 Paperback
978-1-61217-740-3 Digital

Excerpt:

Jen tilted her head, taking the plunge. “I’m just wondering where we’re going with us.”

“Are you embarrassed because of my job, is that it?”

“I brought you home to meet my parents, didn’t I?” “That’s not a proper answer.”

She folded her arms across her chest. “All right, I really like you. I want to be with you. But what happens when your mission is over?”

His eyes hardened. “I go back to my job.”

“Exactly. You leave me. You leave Earth.”

“Why, would you come with me?” For a moment, something flickered behind his expression.

“Not if you’re a space jockey hopping from one port to another. I want to settle down and have a family.”

“Well, then I guess you’ll have to look for someone more stable and suitable to your goals.”

Hurt and disappointment slashed through her. “I guess so. Someone like you can never understand drive and ambition. You just know how to kiss women or kill people.”

She regretted the angry words as soon as she flung them at him, but his refusal to consider her feelings wounded her.

He grinned, but his eyes were two cold ice chips. “I’m very good at killing, Jen. It’s my best trait. Too bad you don’t count that among your requirements for a mate.”

By Hook or By Crook (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:23:23 -0400

Heiress Ivy Smithson is determined to keep her flaky sister from making the worst mistake of her life: marrying the wrong man. Clearly, the guy is just after the family's money.

To stop her, Ivy teams up with her father's gorgeous, wisecracking, and supremely difficult security consultant, ex-cop Joe Dunham. Ivy's way too uptight to be his style, but she's had his attention from the first -- maybe because Joe always pays attention where women are concerned. Bickering all the way, off they go on a mission to Vegas to track down Ivy's sister and stop the wedding.

When Ivy and Joe anger the wrong people, their lives get dangerous, but guns and gangsters aren't the only threat they face. Ivy knows Joe isn't her type, so why does falling for the wrong guy feel very, very right?

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 322
Word Count: 83028
978-1-61217-734-2 Paperback
978-1-61217-735-9 Digital

Excerpt:

“So you’ve won the bet. What’s your prize going to be?”

His green eyes glittered. Her pulse pounded, intoxicated by his nearness and the possibilities and pitfalls of claiming her prize. She hadn’t even thought about what forfeit she would demand. On the PA, a soulful old song started, one of her favorites, “Tell It Like It Is,” by the Neville Brothers. It was a welcome change from the country tunes the jukebox had been pumping out all night. Past the pool tables, couples moved together on a tiny dance floor.

“Dance with me,” she said on impulse.

“What? Now?”

“Sure. I like this song.”

“I’m not much of a dancer,” he hedged.

“Too bad. That’s your forfeit.”

His eyes narrowed as he took her hand. “Come on.”

They staked out a small corner of the dance floor, settling into a slow rhythm to the accompaniment of the pulsing piano line. Ivy tried to keep him at an arms’ length, but Joe pulled her close until their bodies brushed. Sort of a metaphor for how things had gone since they met, Ivy thought with a trace of panic. She tried to keep him at a distance, but he reeled her in relentlessly, using her desire for him to overcome her doubts.

“So you like this song?” he asked, speaking softly in her ear.

The timbre of his low tone sent shivers down her neck. Her breasts brushed against the swell of his chest. Even the fleeting contact heated her body. She slid one hand slowly from his upper arm.

Warrior Lover (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 12:44:57 -0400

Draconia Tales

As a Watcher, a guardian warrior of the Draconi, Enar has never fit in with his kind. When he sees Lily--the ideal Watcher's woman--he instantly claims her, believing she will bring him the acceptance he craves. Falling in love with her was not part of his plan.

As her town's outcast, Lily wants nothing more than to escape. When Enar locks a necklace around her throat and declares she belongs to him, she jumps at the chance to leave. Her excitement soon becomes trepidation when Enar won't tell her what to expect in his world. But even her worry can't overcome her growing attraction to him.

Soon Lily learns what life as a Watcher's claim entails, and refuses to submit. To keep Lily, Enar must turn his back on everything he thought he wanted. Will he choose his people? Or the other half of his soul?

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 332
Word Count: 80828
978-1-61217-690-1 Paperback
978-1-61217-691-8 Digital

Excerpt:

“You don’t mind leaving?” All brawn, no brain obviously.

Hadn’t she just said that downstairs?

“That’s right. I want to leave. You want to take me. It works out well for both of us. Now, how much can I take?”

“You do not feel a need to take your entire shop, do you?” A small wrinkle appeared between his brows.

“As you noticed earlier, there’s not much to take. I have clothes and personal items. A couple of bags, maybe.”

“One bag. Thoren travels light. Insists we do the same.” He glanced to the bed and back to her, grinning. “Besides, the less time you take packing, the more time we’ll have for pleasure.”

Lily’s whole body stiffened, as blood pounded in her ears. Oh, Goddess, not now. She hadn’t left the town. Now she’d never leave. He’d crush her before she could be free.

He took a swaggering step toward her, cupping her face in his hand. “Don’t be frightened. I won’t hurt you.”

Sure you won’t, look at the size of you.

Bending forward, he placed his lips against hers, pressing gently. And just like that, her nervousness vanished.

The CEO Gets Her Man (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:41:54 -0400

Ensuring her company's success is Debra Laurie's life. But when she goes undercover to investigate a failing hotel in southern New Zealand, she finds her confidence crumbling. Masquerading as a waitress is a disaster--especially when the hotel's assistant manager is a former rugby star she once had a crush on.

Jase McEwan is struggling to keep the hotel afloat. An unpredictable manager, ridiculous demands from the head office, and employee unrest are problems enough. Now a haughty new waitress is causing mayhem in the restaurant--and in his heart.

Determined to be impartial, Debra sets out to discover if Jase is responsible for the hotel's drastic situation. But the more she investigates, the more she likes his work--and the more their attraction sizzles. Before long, Jase has turned Debra's world upside-down. But what happens when he learns the new waitress is really his CEO?

Page Count: 288
Word Count: 70924
978-1-61217-756-4 Paperback
978-1-61217-757-1 Digital

Excerpt:

Jase had already identified the new member of staff before George signalled her to join them. Although dressed exactly as the other waitresses bustling around the tables, this one stood out. Tall and poised, she crossed the floor like a high-class model on a catwalk. Her almost regal carriage was totally at variance with the uniform she wore.

His concern increased as she acknowledged George’s introduction with a cool, almost haughty nod of her elegant head. Although her greeting was formal, her dark eyes held a mysterious sparkle.

“How do you do, Mr. McEwan?” The reply tripled his anxiety. Her accent smacked of privilege and private schooling.

“What brings you to Southland, Debbie? Or more to the point, to Riversleigh?”

“I prefer Debra or Deb please.” Jase noted she managed to look down her nose even though he stood at least twenty centimetres taller. She stared him dead in the eye. “I needed a change and Mr. Rivers was kind enough to offer me the position.”

“Yes, well I expect Mr. Rivers will ensure you settle into your new role quickly.” His nod of dismissal was ignored. It took a light touch on her arm and a slight movement of George’s head for her to turn her back and step away.

“George! For God’s sake, what were you thinking of? Look.” He pointed to where she stood undecided about what to do next. “She’s not a waitress. I’d bet my savings she’s never done a day’s labour in her life.”

Necessary Detour (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 08:45:27 -0400

After a stalker's attack, rock star Goldy Crossland flees L.A. for her secluded lake house in Northern Washington. Retired from the music business, she hopes to avoid both the press and her psychotic fan. But obscurity leaves her restless, and when a mysterious--and disturbingly handsome--new neighbor moves in, she can't resist spying.

Pete Bayer is undeniably attractive, but Goldy quickly realizes there's something strange going on in the log house across the bay. Is he a member of the paparazzi? Or a much more sinister threat? Despite her suspicions, Goldy can't deny her fascination with him.

When the press discovers her hideout, it's Pete who offers an escape route, but it comes with a price. Unwillingly drawn into his dangerous world, Goldy soon learns the reason behind Pete's secrecy--and her crush on her charming neighbor takes a deadly turn.

Rating: Sensual
Page Count: 358
Word Count: 89844
978-1-61217-723-6 Paperback
978-1-61217-724-3 Digital

Excerpt:

Nikki kept her eyes lowered as she hurried along the aisles of the Louisa Lake Shop and Go looking for marshmallows. With her chin on her chest, she rounded the bottom of aisle three and ran into a cart coming the other way. Reaching behind to prevent a fall backward, she stuck her fist into a pyramid of canned soup and stumbled back as cans of chicken noodle crashed to the linoleum floor.

An arm yanked her out of the path of toppling missiles. She tumbled into her rescuer’s firm torso.

“You okay?” His voice was one day away from laryngitis.

“Yeah, thanks.” From under her five-dollar baseball cap and through seven-hundred-dollar sunglasses, Nikki sneaked a quick peek and righted herself. He wore jeans, a dark blue T-shirt, and a small metal amulet on a leather rope around his neck, his look reminding her of a middle-aged cowboy from a Ralph Lauren ad. Too handsome for Louisa Lake.

“Let’s kick them out of the way,” he said. “Like this.” He used his foot to push the cans to the side of the aisle and she copied him. What else could she do? She couldn’t race out the door without calling attention to herself.

Even though he was probably a customer like she was, suspicion snaked through her. If he’d been following her since Seattle, she hadn’t noticed. But any solitary man raised her radar today, especially after the media’s reaction to her announcement. The Goldy story had taken the front page of all publications, and the world was frantic for news of her whereabouts. Fifty thousand dollars was out there for anyone who snapped a shot of the newly retired rock legend.

Devil Black (paperback)

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 08:43:23 -0400

Disgraced in her father's eyes, Isobel Maitland travels to Scotland, determined to purchase her sister's happiness at the cost of her own. But when her coach is held up and she is abducted by a dangerous highwayman, she faces an unexpected choice: suffer the loveless union to which she has resigned herself, or marry this ruthless, Scottish outlaw who can ignite her desire with a single touch.

They call him "Diabhal Dubh" - Devil Black - and he spends his days terrorizing the countryside, trying to outdistance the memories that torture him. The King has decreed he must settle and take a wife. And when he steals the alluring woman betrothed to his enemy, Dougal MacRae sees a way to both answer the King's demand and obtain the revenge he has sought so long...

Highland, Medieval
Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 320
Word Count: 76769
978-1-61217-693-2 Paperback
978-1-61217-694-9 Digital

Excerpt:

He pulled her hard against him, into his arms. His mouth plundered hers, battered it open, and he felt her terror spike. Yet it subsided as swiftly as did his desire to handle her roughly. Sweetness met passion and broke over them both like a shower of fire. He felt her hesitate, and his lips softened, began to woo hers, coax and persuade them further apart. Greed washed through him in a staggering tide that left him feeling all at once weak and powerful. Surely he would sell his soul for the taste of her.

She raised both her hands and planted them flat against his chest. He expected to feel her push him away; instead her fingers curled into the fabric of his tunic and pulled him closer.

The motion went straight to his head. He contemplated pushing her down there before the hearth but dismissed the notion. Not before they saw the priest. He would stand accused of raping no woman.

He broke the kiss, and a sound came from her throat, a sigh of protest. They gazed deeply into one another’s eyes, and Dougal’s heart began to pound the way it did before a battle, when his sword cried for blood.

She still had her fingers fastened in his tunic, and they stood barely a breath apart. Every inch of him could feel every inch of her—some more than others.

“So, lady,” he said, allowing one corner of his mouth to turn up, “will you wed wi’ me?”

By Hook or By Crook

customer@thewildrosepress.com (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:15:36 -0400

Available in Print

Heiress Ivy Smithson is determined to keep her flaky sister from making the worst mistake of her life: marrying the wrong man. Clearly, the guy is just after the family's money.

Rating: Spicy
Page Count: 322
Word Count: 83028
978-1-61217-734-2 Paperback
978-1-61217-735-9 Digital

Excerpt:

“So you’ve won the bet. What’s your prize going to be?”

“Dance with me,” she said on impulse.

“What? Now?”

“Sure. I like this song.”

“I’m not much of a dancer,” he hedged.

“Too bad. That’s your forfeit.”

His eyes narrowed as he took her hand. “Come on.”

“So you like this song?” he asked, speaking softly in her ear.

The timbre of his low tone sent shivers down her neck. Her breasts brushed against the swell of his chest. Even the fleeting contact heated her body. She slid one hand slowly from his upper arm.