This blog is for those 18 and older.

Sunday, February 28, 2016

Family Reunions—Watch Out For Aunt Millie and Uncle Elmer!

Hey, ya’all, how’s everyone doin’ out there today?  Doing great at this end!  My apologies to those of you who tuned in to read my blog last Friday and found it wasn’t there.  I’ve been burning the candle at both ends to get 2 books out this month.  Got them out, and then I took a few days off…which turned into about 10 days off…and everything took some downtime, including my brain.  I simply spaced it out.  So sorry!!!


Okay, so here we are again, and I’ve got a family reunion coming up for my dad’s side of the family.  I also have a high school girlfriend staying with me this week (from Oklahoma) so she can attend her family reunion.  So I’ve got family reunions on the brain and thought I’d do a little research on the subject and share with you what I’ve found.  Hold onto your hats…it’s redneck…I know, shocker, huh?  Let me just say that the research I did for this article made me very grateful for the family I have.  Holy cow, there are some scary families out there!

So, I met with some of my cousins a couple of times in the last month to do a little party planning.  The reunion will be at my house this year, so I was relieved when everyone wanted to pitch in and help plan and bring stuff.  This family used to have reunions every year when my grandparents and aunts and uncles were all alive, but the reunions fell by the wayside as the older generation aged and family members scattered to the winds.  But I have like 25 first cousins on that side of the family, so there’s still a lot of family around, and all of us are now grandparents.  So we decided it was time the next generations(s) got to know each other.

The dilemmas:

·   Estranged family members—You know, those people who have, for one reason or another, pulled away from the family and no longer want anything to do with anyone.  We decided to invite them, wish them well, and be surprised if they show up.  (Might have to frisk them at the gate for weapons.)

·     Alcohol—We all understand this one.  Aunt Mildred tips a little too much and flashes everyone…no one wants to see that!  (Did I mention this family's roots are in the dairy farm industry? Yeah, that’s flashing on a whole different scale!) Okay, so I’ll have to assign someone to watch Aunt Millie and either confiscate her flask or lock her in the garage with it.  Everyone agreed for this first trial reunion, the alcohol should stay stowed until we figure out who (besides Aunt Millie) are the worst offenders, and just how bad it might get.  Of course, I’ll have to figure out how to keep my flask hidden but accessible, in order to survive the insanity.  LOL  Just sayin…

·     The menu—Those of you who know me know that I don’t really care.  My attitude about potlucks is that we are getting together to visit and catch up on what’s been happening with everyone.  The food is just something to bond over.  So if everyone brings green bean casserole, that’s great…there’s plenty of green beans for everyone!  But not everyone thinks the way I do, so I’m sure there is a movement afoot to make sure the basics are covered.  Works for me.  (Smile)

·       Entertainment—Not worrying about it.  There will be plenty of people to talk to.  And if things get boring, I just share my flask with Aunt Millie and…voile…entertainment!

So…in the spirit of the reunion season, I researched family reunion jokes and here are some I found.

·     A family reunion is an effective form of birth control.  Hmmm…not sure exactly what this means…if it’s just learning who your family members are so you can stay away from ‘em, or it’s seeing what genes might be passed down if you were to reproduce.

·      You might be a redneck if you attend your family reunion to pick up chicks.  I don’t even want to think about this one!  Guess I’d better assign someone to keep an eye on my grandsons.  LOL

·        You might be a redneck if your family reunion is held at a rest area.  Well, my place ain’t a rest area, but don’t think I’d be surprised if someone decided to pee in a trash can.  Just sayin…

·     Heredity: Everyone believes in it until their children act like fools!  Well, this is something that just can’t be helped…it’s a family reunion.  If you can’t show your butt to family, then who… (nevermind…this didn’t come out on paper like it did in my head).

·     We put the "fun" in dysfunctional.  I think this one will certainly come to fruition next weekend, as I don’t think there is anyone in this family that didn’t inherit the twisted sense of humor.

·      Relatives are people who come to dinner, who aren't friends.  Well, if they aren’t friends before they show up, I’m sure they will be by the time they leave—especially if we can keep Aunt Millie’s shirt on her.

Now, I know you’ve all experienced the problem of relatives who love to come to visit and maybe stay too long.  Well, I tend to be pretty open and folks are welcome to stay as long as they’d like.  If I get too tired to party, I’ll just go to bed and everyone is on their own—just put the fire out before you leave.  But I did run across a very ingenious solution on the internet for solving the problem of too many visiting relatives.  One guy fixed the problem by borrowing money from the rich ones and loaning it to the poor ones.  Now none of them come back.  I like it!  So if you’re related to me and I ask to borrow money, or offer to make you a loan…it’s time to go.  LOL

And this article would NOT be complete without the redneck family reunion horror story…which I found (easily) on the internet.  Someone wrote in to say…

Last time I went to a family reunion my uncle (married in) got in a knife fight with my grandfather over who had the best barbecue sauce, two separate cousins admitted to being knocked up by the same guy, and someone tried to use gasoline to start a bonfire and damn near lost his trailer in the process.

Probably a good thing I don’t have a trailer.  Guess we’d better frisk Aunt Millie for the flask and Uncle Elmer for the fish-guttin’ knife.  Hmmm...now that I think about it...perhaps everyone should be frisked for weapons...especially the ones who come in curlers.  They're the ones living on the edg

Be sure you watch for new releases of my Delta Jane Series, as I’m thinking this family reunion could produce some most excellent fodder for the next installment.  Hmmm…maybe a Delta Jane Family Reunion?  LOL

That’s my story—redneck and ridiculous—and I’m stickin’ to it.  Hang on tight now, cuz’ we’re gonna go real, real fast!

Love ya,
Kayce

Many thanks to these sites for some of the stories and one-liners used in this article!






Friday, February 26, 2016

COWBOY'S BEST SHOT now available for pre-order in boxed set at 99 cents!

Cowboy's Best Shot
available for pre-order in the
 Cowboy Justice 12 Pack boxed set for 
only 99 cents!

Cowboy's Best Shot blurb:
Cowboy Hunter McKade is former military police who survived two tours overseas. When he came home, his wife and his life as he knew it, disappeared in an instant. Now a security guard at Poker Flat Nudist Resort, he exists in his dark place, requiring little social interaction – until the night he breaks the barrier that separates him from her.

As a former prostitute from a high-end bordello, Adriana Perez loves sex – any kind, anywhere – and her rules are few. Her new bartending job at Poker Flat gives her lots of hospitality opportunities, so why is someone trying to get her fired? Baffled, she gratefully accepts Hunter’s help and protection, and is more than willing to show him her appreciation. But the man has far too much control and resists what she offers.

Pushing Hunter beyond his boundaries becomes Adriana’s satisfying distraction. But as the evidence against her mounts, she ignores her heart and takes matters into her own hands. Unfortunately, her best shot at fixing this may not be enough.

Pre-order links:
Amazon http://amzn.to/1Sk5PF6  
Barns & Noble http://bit.ly/1N9jyH3   
iBooks  http://apple.co/1mY4tCI   
Kobo http://bit.ly/1J4VwlG   
Amazon UK http://amzn.to/1PtoXdO   
Amazon AU http://bit.ly/1Pdbqqd   
Amazon CA http://amzn.to/1Pdbw12   
Amazon DE http://amzn.to/1UZSqA0 
Amazon FR http://amzn.to/1ZEZZ63   
Amazon ES http://amzn.to/1RO1f2i

Always, Lexi
www.lexipostbooks.com

Wednesday, February 24, 2016

We will be at "Weekend with the Authors" May 13-15


Oh wow! I just realized that three of the authors who post on this blog will be attending A Weekend with the Authors event happening in Nashville May 13-15th. This event is geared toward readers who want to meet and hang out with some of their favorite authors. So if one of your favorite authors is Marie Patrick, Kayce Lassiter, or Lexi Post (yours truly), from this blog, that's where we will be hanging out. What I like about that event is the hotel provides a free shuttle to and from the airport so no taxi ride expense. In addition to author panels, and parties (I'll be teaching a few line dances), you can sign up for lunch with a couple authors, go to intimate chats, buy books at the book signing, and win raffle baskets!

For more information go to www.aweekendwiththeauthors.com 

If you think you will attend, email me as I'm planning something special. Hope to see you in Nashville in May!

Always, Lexi
lexi@lexipostbooks.com
www.lexipostbooks.com

Sunday, February 21, 2016

The Rogue Not Taken

The Rogue Not Taken by Sarah MacLean

I must say, I’ve become a fan of Sarah MacLean’s. She has a way of writing that is snappy, fresh, and a little spunky. The fact that she writes regency romances is a definite plus for my virtual bookshelf.
Normally, I don’t go for romances that are entirely inner conflict. I like a little mystery or bump in the road. While this was mainly inner conflict and I groaned a few times because I’m impatient, there were a few “bumps” that kept me interested, especially since the hero and heroine bickered constantly. I do love a feisty couple.

Next month, I can't wait to introduce my new book Melting Point. It will be sizzling! Romance, mystery, suspense, Russian mafia, hot men, strong women, and a family that sticks together no matter the odds.
Also, I just listened to a podcast interview that was recently released. Stephen Campbell of CrimeFiction.FM interviewed me about the Nadia Wolf series. It was a really fun interview. Although, it sounds like I had a cold at the time. Oh, well. It was still fun. Have a listen: http://crimefiction.fm/nicolette-pierce/

See you next month,
Nicolette

Here’s The Rogue Not Taken blurb:

LADY SOPHIE'S SOCIETY SPLASH

The youngest of the infamous Talbot sisters scandalized society at the Liverpool Summer Soiree, striking her sister’s notoriously philandering husband and landing him backside-first in a goldfish pond. And we thought Sophie was the quiet one…

When she finds herself the target of very public aristocratic scorn, Sophie Talbot does what she must to escape the city and its judgment—she flees on the back of a carriage, vowing never to return to London…or to society. But the carriage isn’t saving her from ruin. It’s filled with it.


ROYAL ROGUE'S REIGN OF RAVISHMENT!

The Marquess of Eversley was espied descending a rose trellis—escaping an irate Earl and his once-future countess. No lady is safe from Eversley’s Engagement Ending Escapades!

Kingscote, the Marquess of Eversley, has never met a woman he couldn’t charm, a quality that results in a reputation far worse than the truth, a furious summons home, and a long, boring trip to the Scottish border. When King discovers stowaway Sophie, however, the trip becomes anything but boring.

WAR? OR MORE?

He thinks she’s trying to trick him into marriage. She wouldn’t have him if he were the last man on earth. But carriages bring close quarters, dark secrets, and unbearable temptation, and suddenly opposites are altogether too attractive…



Wednesday, February 17, 2016

F*ck Love by Tarryn Fisher

I know Valentine's Day just ended and in no way do I want you to feel the way Helena (character) feels about love.  The title says it all until better things come around.


I am completely into reading new authors and new books this year.  I hit a gold mine with this romantic comedy by Tarryn Fisher. 

Helena is the sweetest, not prettiest according to her best friend (her BFF, Della, is wrong), caring, understanding, and messed up young lady.  F*ck Love

Helena dates Neil, who has his own issues, big ones.  Della is in love with Kit Isley, and they have issues, nearly bigger ones.

What could go wrong with two couples that hang out together and are BFF’s?  Shall I number the problems??

When things start to unravel between Helena and Neil, the first thing Helena thinks is What. The.  F*ck.  Yes, she has a potty mouth that works for her.  I won’t tell you what’s wrong with Neil, I’ll let Helena in her words because she does it so much better.

The other problem lies with Kit and Della, or is it Helena and Della, or maybe Helena and Kit?  It’s all in there. 

Helena, I love her, does get a match up with the right man at the right time prompted by whiskey, babies, dreams, a cult leader (brief meeting), ex-girlfriends ( of Kit’s), Florida and Washington, beige clothes, allusions from art . 

Wish I could give you more plot, but that would give this delightful story away.  You have to read F*ck Love and I promise you will laugh and cry along with Helena.  And that’s not a joke!

Fun and happy reading,

Dawn

Tuesday, February 16, 2016

Pocketful of Diamonds Cover Reveal

Hey Everyone!

I'm sneaking in a post today because I'm so excited! Pocketful of Diamonds, which will be released on May 13, 2016, now has a cover. Woohoo! Check it out!

 
 
For more information about Pocketful of Diamonds or any information about me, please click the link below.
http://www.nicolettepierce.com/books/pocketful-of-diamonds/

I'll be back in a few days for more :)
Nicolette Pierce

Monday, February 15, 2016

Giveaway! 5 Reader Tickets to Weekend with the Authors in Nasville!

Only 2 days left to enter!

To win a FREE ticket to the Weekend with the Authors
  May 13-15th in Nashville Tennessee!

Over 50 authors attending!

Sabrina York is the Keynote Speaker!


Author panels!

Lunch with the authors! 

Receive gift bags!

Learn to line dance!

Enjoy the music of Jackson Young!

Dress up for the costume party!

Have an awesome time!

Oh, and I'll be there too :-) Always, Lexi

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Friday, February 12, 2016

Chocolate Affaire & Other things


         I am having one of those “I want to play hooky” days. Last weekend wasn’t nearly long enough and I’m still recuperating a week later (I think I may have mentioned that I’m not nearly as young as I used to be). Perhaps I did too much. Or maybe not enough.
         What I did do was attend a fantastic annual event around here. The Glendale Chocolate Affaire. I’ve been participating for quite a few years now and I look forward it. What is the Glendale Chocolate Affaire? Oh my! Well, as the name indicates, it has to do with chocolate….lots and lots of chocolate. Chocolate covered cheesecake, chocolate covered bananas, killer fudge (I’m especially fond of the Maple Walnut flavor). They even have a booth where you can make your own chocolate pizza! It’s not just chocolate though. There’s kettle corn and fry bread…oh my gosh, my mouth is watering…gotta stop thinking about all those food booths lined up on the street. There’s face-painting and rides for the kids and live music, too. I’ve heard some really good bands play during this event (and yes, there is dancing in the street).
         The other great thing about the Chocolate Affaire? Books! And the authors who write them (yes, that includes me). I love this! There’s nothing better than hanging out with other authors except maybe getting to introduce yourself (and your writing) to someone who hasn’t read you before.
         And let’s not forget the workshops. These are fabulous presentations given by the authors (before I began participating in the Glendale Chocolate Affaire as an author, I attended the workshops. I can’t tell you how much I learned from these fabulous people!), they’re open to the public and they’re free.
         And that’s why I want to play hooky. Did I have too much fun over this past weekend? Oh, you bet! But what’s that old ditty? I owe, I owe so it’s off to work I go? Yeah, that’s me.

 As always, happy reading!
Marie

Thursday, February 11, 2016

TRACE'S TROUBLE by Lexi Post and Giveaway Gift Card

Trace's Trouble
by Lexi Post

Cowboy Trace Williams thought he had trouble when his wife served him with divorce papers, forcing him to move to his cousin’s horse rescue ranch. But that was nothing compared to handling the female squatter he’s supposed to evict from Last Chance Ranch. Though she’s a crack shot and has no use for politeness or subtlety, her ability to communicate with animals has him seeking her out on behalf of the ranch…and himself. 

Whisper Adams lives off the grid. She cares for her invalid uncle and watches over the wildlife that finds her. The animals are more trustworthy than the people she’s encountered. So when a hard-bodied, easy going cowboy arrives at her trailer and causes her heart to race, she’s anxious for him to leave, until he asks for her help at the ranch. 

Since they end up together more often than she prefers, Whisper doesn’t deny her attraction to Trace, who introduces her to new experiences, from riding horses to an erotic night in bed. But mixing with people, any people, opens her to new threats. This relationship might cost Trace his heart, but it could very well cost Whisper her life.

Buy Links:
Amazon AU  http://bit.ly/1Sn5Wyt
Amazon ES   http://amzn.to/1OTAAgH

 Trace's Trouble Excerpt:
   When the cowboy closed the door, she turned on him, a smirk curling her lip. “So, did you find out everything you came up here for?”
   The man studied her, his eyes hidden by the shadow of his hat. “Yes I did, thank you.”
   Huh? “Good. Now you can go.”
   He cocked his head. “I would think with no one around for miles you wouldn’t mind a little company for a change.”
   “Nope.” At least not his. He had her stomach in knots and she didn’t like it. “Not real partial to people. Animals are much better company.”
   Trace laughed at her statement, sending a pleasant sensation over her body, like the sprinkle of a light rain.
   “I have to admit to having that thought a time or two, especially in the ranch house. But the barn can be peaceful, even soothing. I like listening to the sound of a horse munching on dinner while another chuffs and moves around in the shavings.” He looked off in the distance as if seeing every detail. “As dusk comes on, you can hear the crickets, and the desert mice scampering back into their nests.” His gaze locked with hers. “Nature is more straightforward than man.”
   Feeling a sense of kinship with him at his description, it took her a moment to catch the undertone of bitterness in his final statement. Her mind eased as she sensed he might understand. “Yeah, I get that. A horse lets you know exactly how she feels. You also know how a coyote or mountain lion feels the second you find yourself in their company.”
    He grinned. “You in the company of those animals often up here?”
   She shrugged. “Faust comes by when he’s hungry and—” At his intent stare, she halted. “Anyway, you were leaving, right?”

About Lexi:
Lexi Post is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of erotic romance. She spent War and Peace, she's read, studied, and taught wonderful classics.
years in higher education taking and teaching courses about the classical literature she loved. From Edgar Allan Poe's short story “The Masque of the Red Death” to Tolstoy’s
But Lexi's first love is romance novels. In an effort to marry her two first loves, she started writing erotic romance inspired by the classics and found she loved it. Lexi believes there is no end to the romantic inspiration she can find in great literature. Her books are known as "erotic romance with a whole lot of story."
Lexi is living her own happily ever after with her husband and her cat in Florida. She makes her own ice cream every weekend, loves bright colors, and you will never see her without a hat.
Lexi Post Updates

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