~IN THE COMPANY OF INTIMATE STRANGERS~

Today I am very happy to be featuring the lastest release from my friend, Tara Mills, INTIMATE STRANGERS!







Can she ever forgive herself? Will she ever forget him?

When newly engaged couple Mac and Kate, take a celebratory fishing trip off the island of Pelican Cay, they never dream their romantic bliss is in jeopardy.

What happens will test Kate in ways she never saw coming, make her question what she understands about her own heart, and lead her into the arms of another man.

This exciting short story has it all; romance, terror, passion, betrayal, and a happy ending, of course, but perhaps not the one you'd expect.



Sneak Peek
There was a spring in Kate and Mac’s steps when they hustled down the dock, clasped hands swinging between them on this bright and early morning. In truth, it could have been simply the give of the walkway under their feet, but she chose to attribute it to their blissful mood. Her skin still tingled from making love with him back at the hotel. Both wore smiles that wouldn’t quit.

Kate turned her wrist, and his, to admire her beautiful new ring. The breathtaking diamond caught the light and shimmered back at her, utterly captivating her all over again.

Mac shot her a quick glance and chuckled as he gently tugged her along. “Come on. You’ll have all kinds of time to stare at that rock once we’re on the boat.”

“I can’t help it.” She laughed, still thrown by his unexpected proposal. “I love it!”

He turned her hand so he could admire the ring himself then winked at her. “It looks good on you.” Mac craned his neck and spotted their chartered boat. “I see ‘em.” He shared a nod with a man watching them from a fly bridge just ahead.

The man chuckled as he made his way down a chrome ladder to the deck to meet them. “You beat my other crewman.” Turning, he reached for Kate’s hand, hauling her into the boat as Mac boosted her by the hips from behind. Her fiancé leaped gracefully onto the boat after her and they both faced the captain.

“Welcome aboard the Sea Sprite. I’m Brady Finn.” Still holding her hand, he gave it a hearty pump.

He didn’t look any older than they were, but his sharp features were weathered from the wind and sun. The lines framing his smile gave his tan even more warmth. Her eyes strayed to his sandy hair. Generally, she preferred men who were more clean-cut, like Mac, but the way Brady’s shaggy hair fluttered and feathered in the breeze, with the sun glinting off his natural bleached highlights, was undeniably appealing. As if saving the best for last, only now did she meet his unusual blue-green eyes. Set off by fine lines radiating out from the corner of each, they were beautiful, so striking she was thrown for moment.

No question—most women would find Brady Finn attractive. Trying very hard not to think about it, she blushed at her delayed response to his introduction. “Kate.”

As always, Mac saved the day. Offering his hand to their skipper next, he grinned. “And I’m Mac Schafer.” He looked around, taking it all in. “Wow, this is some boat.”

“Thank you.” The captain was noticeably pleased at the compliment. “Ah … here’s Rome. He’s going to help you haul in your monster fish today.”

“Rome?” Kate raised her eyebrows as she shook the Latino’s hand.

His lips tightened. “I prefer it to Romeo.”

Brady gave him a good-natured cuff on the arm and told the passengers, “He’s not as big a fan of Shakespeare as his mom.”

Chuckling, Mac clasped hands with him and brought back the man’s easy smile. “Good to meet you, Rome.”

A sigh of contentment escaped Kate as she gazed at her fiancé. Mac had a way with people, a gift for diffusing tense situations. It’s what attracted her to him in the first place.

Stepping back she was startled to catch the captain watching her, studying her. She had an uneasy suspicion he was very aware of how carefully she’d examined him minutes ago. Looking evasively away, she reached for Mac. Pressed against his side while he chatted, Kate rubbed her hand up and down his spine, in dire need of a little of his calming mojo herself all of a sudden.

Oblivious to her tension, Mac smiled at Brady. “You said there’s a bathroom on board?”

The captain pointed to his left. “Through the salon and down the stairs.”

Mac gave Kate’s waist an affectionate squeeze. “See. Told you. You’ll be fine.”

“You can’t miss it.” Brady’s eyes landed on her again. To her relief, they didn’t linger this time. “We’ll head out as soon as Manuel gets here. Excuse me. I’ll see what’s keeping him.”

Rome waved the couple into the cockpit. “How about a quick tour?”



Buy Links: Crimson Frost Books — Amazon



About the Author

I'm a lifelong wordaholic, contemporary romance writer, pampered wife, and proud mom. Escape with me into books.

If you like fun and flirty, saucy and sexy, exciting thrills and suspense, or simply a good chuckle, I've got a story for you.



Please visit my website, Tara Mills Romance, for more information on my titles, sneak peeks, and my quirky blog.



I’m also on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Google+

CAN ACCIDENTS MAKE THE HEART GROW FONDER? ~ CHARACTER INTERVIEW WITH JACKSON AND SABRINA

I'm a little nervous today as I'm interviewing someone in the news business. I mean, I do my little interviews for fun. Jackson Murpy is the real deal. Let's just dive in, then. Maybe I'll swim rather than sink.

Jackson, tell me about yourself? What’s your occupation? What are your strengths & weaknesses? 

Hi MJ, thanks for having us over today. Let’s see, I’m 34, the executive news director at KBHY-TV in Lewiston. My strengths? Hmm, I suppose my business sense. My weaknesses … I’d argue with this one but most people who know me would probably say I’m a little too serious.

Tell me about your family. What’s it like and how does your upbringing affect you now? 

Let’s just say that it wasn’t ideal. Don’t get me wrong, my dad was an excellent provider, but that was pretty much the extent of it. He dropped the ball when it came to being a decent husband and father. I suppose that made me try to shoulder more responsibilities growing up. I guess you could say I resented it. He let my mom, my younger brother, Rob, and me down. We’re only now trying to repair the rift in our relationship, and I’m not entirely on board with that yet. It’s going to take some time.

That's understandable. Now, if you could take an object, any object, to symbolize you, what would it be? 

Can I say turtles? Ask anyone what they immediately think of when my name comes up, they’ll all probably mention turtles. Long story.

You're going to have to share that with me someday. Now let's get down to the juicy part. How did you and Sabrina meet? What was your first impression of her? 

Sabrina just about ran me down with her car! I wish I was kidding but it’s true! Then she went from ogling to injuring me. I never knew what I was going to get next. I thought she was a cute but scary danger to society—me in particular.”

[Chuckling and winking at Sabrina.] What do you like about the heroine? 

Once I got over the panic attacks at the sight of her, I realized, I’m laughing and smiling more than I have in years. She’s quirky and sweet, a good friend and great company. Being with Sabrina is a rush, a jolt of adrenaline to the system and the only other place I feel that kind of kick is in the crazy newsroom. She’s the eye of the storm and I’d rather be inside of it than get pelted by the debris that seems to swirl around her.

Oooh! Love that imagery! Now, Jackson, if you had an unexpected free day, what would you do with it? 

I wouldn’t mind borrowing my brother’s boat again. Or golf. Golf is always good.

That's good! You can't be too serious then, because I've had guests that were so involved in their work lives that they couldn't even come up with an answer to that. As a final question, what CD or song best describes your relationship? 

 [Jackson laughs.] That’s easy. Queen’s ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’. It’s perfect.

Sounds like it! Now it's Sabrina's turn. Tell me about yourself? What’s your occupation? Strengths, weaknesses?

My Name is Sabrina Eckhart and I manage the restaurant and nightclub, Oasis. Contrary to what you’ve heard, I’m not a total disaster. It seems to be centered around Jackson. Well, Jackson and my brother’s CD’s. And Roommates, and apartments. And nippy little dogs. And … next question. I don’t have to say my age, do I? Oh, let’s just move on, okay?

Suurrre. So, what’s your family like and how does your upbringing affect you now? 

Believe it or not, I have three older brothers; Andy, Aaron, and Sam. I got the full dose of estrogen in the family and it kind of shows up at the worst times. I give my brothers a lot of crap but I love them, I really do, and their wives and kids. I’m crazy about my family. Oh, and I should probably mention that my parents are awesome, but they’re retired and live in Santa Fe now. That means my brothers all think they have to watch over me. Like I’m a screw-up or something. It can get annoying at times. Of course I forgive them. I pretty much have to because they’re always willing to help me move when I call. Not that I move a lot. Well… next question.

Okay. Sabrina, what tangible object would symbolize you?

I scrapbook, does that count? I have books full of interior and exterior pictures—furniture. Basically I’m building my dream home in my head because I can’t afford to do it for real yet.

[I skooch forward so we can talk more intimately.] Describe Jackson. What was your first impression of him and did it change over time?

OMG! What did he tell you? I’m serious, what? Forget it, don’t answer that. Tell me this instead. Did you see Jackson’s butt? That was the first thing I noticed about him. Black running shorts and a tight butt. Stunning. I’m talking STUNNING! [Laughing.] That assessment hasn’t changed only now I’m allowed to touch it! [That earns her a high-five from me. She nods.] I know, right?

He does have some rather, er, interesting assets. [I feel my cheeks get hot.] Let's change the subject. Is there anything about Jackson that you would consider a flaw? 

He’s working on trust issues, but I totally understand where that’s coming from—and I didn’t exactly help in that department. But, he’s working on it, and his brother, Rob is a psychiatrist and they’re like, joined at the hip. Rob is Jackson’s First Call for Help. [Giggles, rolling her eyes.] Yeah, I was the reason he made a few of those calls.

You seem almost proud of that! So, what is it that you want out of life?

I’d love a home, a decent bed—mine has a sinkhole in the middle—and well…love. Don’t we all basically want that?”

We sure do! If you had an unexpected free day, Sabrina, what would you do with it? 

It doesn’t even matter as long as I’m not at work! Probably something cheap. I live on a budget. Maybe I’d go fantasy shopping with my best friend, Tanya, to Ikea or Pier 1 Imports. That’s like, my favorite store!

What CD or song best describes your relationship?

What did Jackson say? 

"Crazy Little Thing Called Love." 

He did? Uh, what? He really did? Ooooh, I don’t know now. How am I supposed to concentrate on stupid songs when I’ve got that running through my head? Dang it!

Jackson swoops back in to collect Sabrina and gives MJ a broad smile. 

Thank you for having us, MJ.

Sabrina adds, slightly distracted: Yes, MJ. Thank you. This was fun. [Naturally she’s still trying to come up with a better song than Jackson’s suggestion but it eludes her.] 

The pleasure's been all mine! And now let's hear about ACCIDENTS MAKE THE HEART GROW FONDER!

Sabrina Eckhart is losing it. Oasis, the restaurant

she manages is getting battered by a trendy newcomer, and with everyone looking to her for ideas, you could say she's under a little pressure. But wait, that's not all. Her evil landlady has given her until the end of the month to vacate her crummy apartment. And her thirtieth birthday is looming, reminding her of the milestones she's missed. No wonder she’s distracted and driving off the rails…down the sidewalk, and nearly running over the man with amazing glutes.

Jackson Murphy is an avid jogger, and the local television station’s scrumptious news director -- if he can keep the job. Unfortunately, he has one year to resuscitate their wheezing news department or the owners are going to pull the plug. His hands are already full even without Sabrina dropping into them. The last thing he needs is to be involved with a publicity stunt.

The road to love is bumpy. It’ll take all of Cupid's arrows, and a lot of interference from friends, for these two to win the Dating Game.

Accidents is available in e-book and Print on Demand (POD) through; The Wild Rose Press, Amazon and Amazon UK, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and All Romance.

Author- Tara Mills

I'm a lifelong wordaholic, contemporary romance

writer, pampered wife, and proud mom. Escape with me into books.

If you like fun and flirty, saucy and sexy, exciting thrills and suspense, or simply a good chuckle, I've got a story for you.

Please visit my website, Tara Mills Romance, for more information on my titles, sneak peeks, and my quirky blog.

You can also find me on Facebook, Goodreads, or follow me on Twitter.

WELCOME DYLAN BOND AND ARIELA PERRINE FROM IN LOVE AND WAR

We are very lucky to have with us today the fascinating and scintillating Dylan & Ariela from Tara Mill's IN LOVE AND WAR. Welcome!

Dylan, let's start with you. Tell me about yourself? What is your occupation? Why?

Hi M.J..  My name is Dylan Bond. I’m a journalist. I guess I got my start in high school. I wrote a column for the student newspaper. Think of The Onion and you’ll get an idea of what my sense of humor and sarcasm were like at the time. Once I got to college, I started taking journalism more seriously. Now it’s very important to me, but it can be physically and emotionally grueling.

Now that we got that out of the way, let's get down to the juicy part. How did you two meet? And what was your first impression of Ariela?

I saw Ariela get hit by a bike messenger when he shot out of a parking lot. One minute she’s was walking down the sidewalk, the next, she’s sprawled on her back. He’d knocked her out so obviously I was concerned. I remember thinking at the time that she looked so pretty. She reminded me of sleeping beauty. I actually wondered if a kiss could wake her. Not that I’d act on it, but I thought about it. Didn’t matter — my dog, Max, beat me to it.

         

Dylan, tell me, just what is it that you want out of life?

What I want most is a little calm in the violent storm of my life. Just a little normal in the chaos.  I’d love it if Ariela was there waiting for me. That’s up to her.

Has life handed you any major disappointments?

This has been a very tough year for me, personally, and professionally. I was regrouping and trying to decide my next move career-wise when I met Ariela. She was like a breath of fresh air and a welcome distraction when I needed it most.           

          

Now, for a less serious question. What CD is in your CD player right now?

Hero by Family of the Year.  Do you know it?  Love that song.

Can't say that I do. I'll have to check that out. Now Ariela. You've been waiting so patiently.  Tell me about yourself?  What is your occupation? Strengths, weaknesses?

Oh, it’s my turn? Sorry, he distracted me. Hi, I’m Ariela Perrine. I’m an interior decorator. My strengths? I suppose I’d say my creativity. Weaknesses? That’s easy, hero types – go figure! I’d already crossed them off my datable list.    

What’s your family like and how does your upbringing affect you now?

I lost both of my parents when I was twelve. My dad was a cop, killed on duty. My mom took her own life when he died. I was raised by my grandmother. I made a promise to myself that I’d never fall in love with someone in a dangerous job. It scared me. It still scares me. Turns out it isn’t a decision you can make. The heart makes the choice and you can’t stop that, not even to protect it.

          

Describe Dylan. What was your first impression of him and did it change over time?

Dylan is smart, funny . . . sexy. He’s so interesting because he’s been everywhere. I’m not kidding, he’s got stories. He’s incredibly compassionate and ethical. I trust him. My first impression . . . hmm. Well, everything was kinda hazy and the sunlight was right behind him. I remember the sound of his voice first. It was comforting— the tone, not the words. Then I finally saw his deep blue eyes and, well, I fell again. I liked him immediately. I didn’t want to, but I couldn’t help it.     

          

I like that! You "fell again." I can see why! But come on! Isn't there anything about Dylan that you would consider a flaw?

Oh yeah. He can be spare on details. He asks all kinds of questions but doesn’t give much out himself. That can get annoying. I understand why he does it. He doesn’t want to get caught up in lies, but it still irritates me. His middle name is obfuscation.  

  

I see! Interesting! I asked Dylan this, but what is it that YOU want out of life?

Like most women, I want love, marriage, and children.  I’m even starting to warm to the idea of a dog in the picture.

A dog like say, Max? If you had an unexpected free day, what would you do with it?

That’s easy. We’d sleep in late then take Max for a long walk around the lake. Afterwards, I suppose we’d go home, maybe open a bottle of wine on the patio and fire up the grill. I think I’d have to kick Dylan’s butt in some serious backgammon.  We’re both pretty competitive. I don’t know. I just like hanging out with him. That’s what I’d want to do. My perfect day.

Sounds very enjoyable. Now Dylan told us about his "Hero" song. What CD is in your CD player right now?

Funny you should ask. I was just listening to Head over Feet by Alanis Morrisette.  I totally understand where she’s coming from.

Well thank you for sharing with us today! It has been a delight talking to you both! Now here's a blurb from IN LOVE AND WAR. I see Dylan's pretty blue eyes on the cover!      

          

         Sometimes love really is worth fighting for, but picking

your battles isn't so easy—especially when lives are at stake. 

Ariela Perrine refuses to consider a certain type of man. She watched how loving a self-sacrificing hero destroyed her mother and left her orphaned at a young age. So yes, she does tend to go out with lackluster men—with predictable results. But she's safe. And bored, at least until an accident brings the interior decorator face to face with an unforgettable pair of blue eyes, a playful smile, and his overly affectionate dog.

Oh yeah, journalist Dylan Bond makes her sizzle, but dare she risk it? After all, he's just returned from Iraq--a war zone for crying out loud! Ariela’s weak resistance crumbles with his assurance that he's back to covering domestic stories and their relationship hits the tarmac at a dizzying speed. Unfortunately, an unexpected phone call lures Dylan back into danger and he falls off the radar outside the green zone. Sensing something’s gone desperately wrong, Ariela’s ready to make a deal with the devil to find him and bring him back. As the days of fear and panic stretch on, they’re both tested in ways neither expected. Will it bring them closer or destroy their fragile peace forever? 

In Love and War is available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

You can read the first chapter and so much more by visiting Tara Mills Romance.  Tara’s also on Facebook, or you can follow her on Twitter.