Gayl Taylor - 'Ride A Cock Horse', a 1st anniversary tour!

Thank you, Zara, for hosting me today! One year ago, my debut as a writer released with Breathless Press.

The journey began however, much earlier. A story, inspired by an amusing title, gave birth to characters who, to this day, still talk to me.

You would think writing a story based on a nursery rhyme is simple. I mean, you have the 'plot' laid out in front of you right? That's not always the case. The one thing I knew was that my story would be contemporary and that I wanted to use as much of the nursery rhyme as I could. Here's how I broke it down:

Ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross to see a fine lady upon a white horse.

From this line, Hunter's story grew. After leaving town a broken man, Hunter returns to win back his true love, Kate Banbury. Her ancestral roots grow deep in this town as you can see by her surname. And of course, she drives a white mustang. ;)

With rings on her fingers and bells on her toes, she shall have music wherever she goes. 

Both Hunter and Kate are musicians. When Hunter sees Kate after all these years, her glittering jewelry flashing as she emerges from her car. She still wears the delicate anklet with tiny bells Hunter gave her as a reminder of the beautiful music they make together.

From that point, the story grew. It is about love, redemption, and forgiveness. Maybe one day, I will revisit Hunter and Kate to reveal where they are now.

Blurb:

Musician Hunter Blake returns to Banbury Cross to win back his true love, Kate. Will they find a way to make beautiful music again?

Not even a cock horse could bring musician Hunter Blake back to Banbury Cross, yet here he stood, ten years after leaving, to make amends for his past behavior and win back his true love, Katherine Banbury. Their relationship was in perfect harmony until Hunter's excessive drinking tore them apart. Now sober, he's focused on doing whatever it takes to prove he's worthy of her love.

Kate spent the last ten years determined to forget Hunter. With a developer intent on turning her ancestral home into tract housing, Kate had her hands full. When Hunter returns, vivid memories of their passionate history stoke the flames of desire between them. Will Kate fight the attraction or will she open her heart to love once more?

Excerpt:

"Ah, Kate, I've missed you so much."

He pulled her against him, dipped his head until his mouth found the sensitive area behind her ear, and kissed it. His erection pressed into the small of her back as he pulled her closer. With his left hand, he unfastened the clasp at her neck while the hand that held her moved lower until it found the soft flesh of her thigh. Slowly, he began to caress her, higher and higher, as the top of her dress fell to her waist and exposed her bare breasts. She should have protested, but it felt so good, so right. No one made her feel like this and, as hard as she tried to find someone else, it had always been Hunter's touch that made her body respond.

Kate leaned back so that her head rested on his shoulder. Closing her eyes, she savored each caress as her body naturally responded to his touch. Wet heat pooled between her legs. She ached for him, wanted him to soothe her need and, just when she made up her mind to demand it, one long finger and then another parted her folds and slid inside her. She trembled with desire as his palm worked slowly against her clit while his fingers moved in and out with slow precision.

"You remember that time at Rocky's when you rode that mechanical bull? That was such a turn on; I was so hard watching you that night. Ride my hand, Kate, like you rode the bull." His voice, rough and laced with desire, rumbled against her ear.

On Sale Exclusively at Breathless Press
Ride A Cock Horse
Also Available at the following
All Romance eBooks
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Bookstrand

Gayl Taylor writes sensual, erotic romance. Currently published with Breathless Press.

Biography
A California native, Gayl Taylor spent much of her youth daydreaming and making up stories. Life in her imaginary world was full of adventure, intrigue, and romance. Temporarily distracted by real life, marriage, three kids, and the necessary paycheck; she found her way back to writing as a hobby and eventually pursued her dream of being a published author.

Although she still has her day job, at night Gayl writes sensual, erotic romance often finding inspiration in her experiences and surroundings. There are pieces of her in all the characters whose stories she tells.

Gayl lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her three sons and rock star cat. She is a firm believer in love and the power of romance.

When I am not knee-deep in writing, I can be found at the following places ~

http://gayl-taylor.com
Twitter
Facebook
Goodreads

A chat with Dianne Hartsock - excerpt and giveaway!

Hi Dianne, thank you so much for dropping by.

Thanks so much for having me over, Zara!

Book blurb –

Willie has met an old flame, but is he willing to give up the decadence of Boston society for the man he loves?

For the past three years William Wilkerson has led the life of the privileged rich. Head of his father’s shipping business, Willie indulges in the pleasures of Boston’s fine young men to his heart’s content. That is, until he meets Fredrick, the one man who has captured his heart, again.

As his former tutor, Fredrick has been declared off limits by William’s father. Fredrick also believes he's beneath the attention of Wilkerson’s heir. Willie disagrees, but is he willing to throw away rank and privilege for the man he loves?

Okay, starting off with the book…

1. If you had to sum up Wee Willie Winkie in 30 words or less what would you say?

Willie is reunited with his true love, but after three years apart, is he willing to give up his life of pleasure for Fredrick?

2. William sounds intriguing– what do you most like about him?

Being the author, I probably shouldn't say this, but I think he's adorable! Decadent and desirable and full of life. I love his joy and enthusiasm.

3. Is there anything about him that frustrates you?

He can be a little self-absorbed at times and not notice how his actions affect those around him. He's been careless of people's hearts, but maybe Fredrick can help him with that.

4. What does Fredrick most admire about him? What draws him to William?

Despite his shortcomings, Willie has a good heart and is true to his friends. Also, Fredrick is a more reserved man and William's vitality is a strong attraction to him.

5. William sounds quite wild, what are his redeeming features?

William is a good business man, a loyal friend, a passionate lover and generous with his possessions. He's quick to anger but also willing to forgive if someone truly regrets what they'd done.

6. And is he the type of guy you could fall for, or would you steer clear?

Like I said, I think he's adorable, but he's complicated and hot blooded. It would take a special person to balance his volatile nature. I think Fredrick's loving, gentle nature is exactly what he needs.

7. What inspired you to write the story?

My publisher, Breathless Press, put out a call for Naughty Nursery Rhymes, and since Wee Willie Winkie has always been my favorite, I thought I'd write one about him. I always thought Willie would be a bit mischievous and cunning and it was easy to imagine him as an adult and the trouble he could get himself into.

8. And what about the characters - are they a little bit you, people you know, or did they just leap out and grab you (metaphorically speaking of course!)?

I suppose my characters are a little of everyone, but honestly, when I think of a story, the characters come to me ready-made. I don't create them so much as discover them as I write their story.

And we, sorry I, being naturally nosy would love to know a bit about you…

1. Where/when do you write?

My son recently moved to his own apartment near his college, so I've converted his room into my writing space. All my lovely things are here with me! As far as writing, I get up an hour early to get some time in before work, then have about two hours in the evening. Then on my days off I squeeze in as much as I can.

2. What part of writing do you enjoy most, coming up with the idea, planning, writing it or typing The End?!

Writing the story! The ideas come easily. Finding the time to write them takes some doing. But I absolutely love writing the story and watching it unfold on the page. I'm usually as surprised as the reader with where my characters take me!

3. Sum yourself up in 30 words or less (ha, I hate questions like this!)?!

I'm a wife, mother, author, floral designer, good friend, loving daughter and sister, and a born introvert who struggles every day to overcome my shyness.

4. Do you spend much time reading? What’s your favourite bedtime/holiday read? Favourite author/genre?

I read every second I can spare! I've been the original bookworm since I first learned to read. At bedtime I like to snuggle on the couch with the latest m/m romance I've bought.  Holiday story would be the latest romance (1880-1920) that I just bought to add to my collection. My favorite author is Dean Koontz. And no, I don't have a favorite genre. I enjoy all kinds of books in all different genres.

5. Coffee or tea (or wine!)?

A caramel macchiato with whipped cream. J

6. Starter or dessert?

Oh, dessert, absolutely!

7. What would you be doing if time & money were no object?

Maybe it sounds a little sad, when I could be taking amazing trips around the world! But even if I were taking these trips, I'd still take my laptop and write. I have so many stories swimming around in my head, I'm afraid I'll never get them all written. And writing is my absolute favorite thing to do.

8. Best bit of advice you’ve ever been given, and by whom?

Best advice I've ever been given is to be true to myself and my writing. Don't try to write like anyone else. Simply put the words that come to you down on paper (or computer). It's the only way to find your own unique writing voice.

The one who gave me that advice was the very first editor I ever had, May Bestall. She worked for Wolf-Pirate Publishing and helped me work through my psychological thriller novel ALEX.

And before you run off, can you share a little excerpt?

Fredrick held up his glass and stared at the candle's flame through the amber liquid. He took a sip, savored the rich, biting taste on his tongue. He welcomed the burn down his throat. This was the very last drink he could afford, and he had to make it last.

A giggle erupted from the booth in the corner, the one whose curtains were drawn against curious eyes. A smile tugged at Fredrick's lips despite the dire state of his wallet. The laugh had been carefree, joyous, naughty. Fredrick shifted on the cushioned bench. Only a few straggling customers remained in the dining room. He wondered if any of them would notice if he shifted his cramped cock as it throbbed in sympathy with the bright laughter.

Rather than risk it, he watched the fruit vender outside the window beguile a customer. Another giggle and stifled moan swiveled his attention back to the corner. A silk-clad foot and slim calf peeked beneath the curtain. He grinned even as the delectable sight emphasized his own loneliness. It had been far too long since he'd had someone in his bed.

"Excuse me. Sir?"

Fredrick looked up, distracted from his memory of lush lips and white skin and wide, hazel eyes, and blinked at the stout innkeeper at his elbow. "Yes?"

A frown fleeted across the man's homely face at another bout of laughter from the corner. "If they're disturbing you, I can have Wee Willie take his guest upstairs. Excuse me, I mean Mister Wilkerson." The man broke off, flustered by the slip of the tongue.

Fredrick's heart leaped on hearing the name mentioned. Is William really here? How could that be? The innkeeper coughed, and Fredrick frowned at the intrusion into his thoughts. The man was so damned serious about such a minor indiscretion. "They're no bother. In fact, I'm almost done anyway." He lifted his nearly empty glass. Hearing a shout, they looked over in time to see a young man tumble through the curtains onto the floor. Fredrick caught a glimpse of red hair and an embarrassed cheek before the gentleman crammed a hat on his head and strode passed them, face averted. The innkeeper shrugged and followed, likely to be sure he paid for his drinks.

Fredrick stared at the silk-clad foot still protruding from the parted curtains. He loosened his hold on his glass but had no way to stop the wild hammering of his heart. Before he lost his courage, he stood and swallowed the last of his brandy, then walked the short distance to the booth.

A grin tugged the corner of his mouth at his eagerness. It had been three years, after all, and they'd parted in anger. Would William acknowledge him? His hand trembled as he drew aside the heavy curtain and allowed his gaze to travel up the silky hose to bright blue trousers. Blood heated his face when he found the laces undone at the waist and the silk shirt open to expose white skin and rosebud nipples.

A sigh brought his gaze up to the pretty face that stirred his dreams. Rich brown curls surrounded lovely hazel eyes and full, pouting lips. He groaned when a delighted smile revealed the even, white teeth that had nipped his collarbone on more than one glorious occasion. "Freddie, is it you?"

Buy links – Amazon

 
Thanks for sharing Dianne, and good luck with Wee Willie Winkie.

Thanks again, Zara. It's been fun!

Prize time! Please leave a comment telling me your favorite naughty character for a chance to win an E-copy of any book on my backlist. Don't forget your contact info!

Bio -
Dianne Hartsock is the author of paranormal/suspense, fantasy/adventure, m/m romance, and anything else that comes to her mind. Currently, she works as a floral designer in a locally-owned gift shop—the perfect job for her. When not writing, she expresses herself through the rich colors and textures of flowers and foliage.

Where can your readers find you?

Blog: http://diannehartsock.wordpress.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/diannehartsock

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/diannehartsock

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/4707011-dianne-hartsock

Welcome to 2103 and Kayla Jameth!

Hi everyone, and Happy New Year - I hope 2013 will be everything you're hoping for!

I've got a special guest to help me kick off 2013, Kayla Jameth, who is going to spill the beans about her new release 'From the Ashes' - a m/m version of Cinderella set in 16th century France.

Zara, thank you for agreeing to have me on your blog to talk about From the Ashes, my Cinderfella (m/m Cinderella story).

You're very welcome Kayla, mind if we have a few quick fire questions and find out a bit more about you and the story?

Where did the idea for FTA come from? It sounds intriguing!

An m/m author (Cinder's first godmother) told me about a submission call for m/m fairy tales. The only one I could make plausible was a Cinderfella. I missed the call, but this was the first non-slash I wrote. It took some urging from the other two ladies I call his godmothers to get me to rework and submit it.

Why France?

Because the original Cinderella story is a French story. I'm a bit of a stickler for accuracy so there you have it. Plus I get to use some French endearments.

Ten words to make my buy it?

Lots of hot sex in a cute story. Oh-la-la!

Would you like to meet Cinder’s and Henri in real life (or are they based on someone you do know?!)

I'd love to get to know them better.

Cinder is an absolutely wonderful person, mostly sweet, but a little snarky.

Henri wants to think of himself as a self-made man in an era when most the notables weren't. He's more down to earth than one would expect in the French court.

Have you had a good Christmas?

Yes, I have. The family gets together for a good dinner after opening all the presents.

Do you like to stick to the traditional, or do something we wouldn’t expect over the festive season?

My hubby says that I'm very traditional.

Any New Year's resolutions?

Nothing in particular. Maybe just hug and tickle the kids more.

What have you got planned for 2013?

I've got a short story with Alexios and Galen. I'm about 2/3 done with a novel, continuing their story.

I've also got a short story featuring Andreas and Theron from an upcoming novel called A Spartan Love.

They are all from my Apollo's Men series.

If I get all that done, I have a story titled Fan Service sitting in the wings.

Thank you for being a wonderful host. I hope you have a wonderful year.

Thanks Kayla! All the best for 2013 x

BLURB

Cinder never thought that he could rise from the ashes of his life, but an unexpected encounter with a woman claiming to be his fairy godmother may be just what he needs. Finding himself flung into his very own fairy tale, she sends him off to meet his Prince Charming. But was the gown really necessary?

EXCERPT

Cinder glanced around. Paper lanterns floated in the trees, lined the walks, and graced the gazebo near the reflecting pool, giving the grounds a mystical air. Their warm glow caught the dancing jets of the fountain splashing merrily to his right. The musical, crystalline tones carried on the night wind’s breath. He was reminded of the enchanted gardens in the fairy tales his father had read to him when he was a child. What would happen to him if he dared walk there?

Henri led him toward the gazebo. Soon he would find out.

The cool breeze caressed his uncovered neck. Cinder shivered at the ethereal touch. Henri turned to him, the question clear in his eyes, but he didn’t know how to answer. Instead he breathed in the tangible scent of rich earth and flowing water, hoping to calm his bounding heart.

Henri lightly stroked his arm. Cinder’s breath caught at the silky brush of the other man’s fingers. He drew another shaky breath. Henri may have meant to soothe him; instead his touch set Cinder’s wayward body aflame.

They left the last of the courtiers behind as they entered the dim interior of the fanciful pavilion. Vines climbed its intricately carved posts, perfuming the air within. The music and voices of the aristocrats faded away. Only a single intrepid nightingale could be heard over the cheerful burbling of the fountain. Hidden from the rest of the court, an unworldly sense of peace filled him. Was his very own fairy tale about to come true?

Bespelled and bemused, he could feel the magic in every beat of his heart, in every trembling breath he drew.

Once inside the bower, Henri reached to cup Cinder's cheek. Unused to being touched, he nearly flinched away but managed to still, heart pounding, before giving himself away. The older man's thumb slid across his cheekbone and came to rest lightly on his mouth. Why did he want to lean into that caress?

The other man's warm, slightly musky scent filled his nostrils, drowning his senses.

Henri's other hand wrapped around his waist and drew him close. He leaned closer while tipping Cinder's face upwards. Cinder's breath left him in a rush, stirring the noble’s hair. Henri was all that he could see, his mouth slowly, carefully descending toward Cinder’s. If he allowed this, the other man might discover his deception. He couldn’t risk that, so why then did he ache to feel Henri’s kiss? Their lips brushed, light as thistle down.

Surprisingly, Henri's mouth was soft and warm upon his own. After a moment, it pressed more firmly against his. Something fluttered in his chest, trying to get out.

Cinder didn't think to pull away until he felt Henri's tongue seeking entrance. The hand on his face slipped to his nape and held firm. He froze in shock, not even daring to breathe, as flames rushed through his body. The very beat of his heart betrayed him.

The questing tongue stroked his lips and pushed between them. It slid over his teeth, seeking to enter. When he protested, Henri swept in and began a lazy, sensuous exploration that left him breathless.

Soon he found himself returning the caress. Henri responded to his fledgling attempts by pulling him closer and moaning into his mouth. He had never experienced anything so sensual and erotic. He fed his own needy pleas to the other man one at a time.

Finally they separated slightly, Cinder panting heavily, trying to catch his breath. Was Henri as affected by their kiss as he was? A quick glance confirmed Cinder was not alone in his arousal. Flushed and gasping, Henri gazed at him with eyes full of wonder and something unnamed smoldering in their depths.

BUY LINK: http://www.breathlesspress.com/index.php?main_page=product_free_shipping_info&cPath=1&products_id=410

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A knight and a former princess, Kayla Jameth now spends her time writing m/m romance. A true Renaissance woman, she has done everything from cross stitch like a proper lady to welding with the best of them. An eclectic life has left her with a unique understanding of the world inhabited by men and an appreciation for the difficulties faced by men in m/m relationships. It is her devout wish that her experiences translate into a richer telling of such tales.

Find her here:

Blog: http://kaylajameth.blogspot.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Author.Kayla.Jameth

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KaylaJameth