Stressing the Hero

An interview which shows the hero under stress and how he would react.

  • Stressing the Hero

    Stressing Reid Hunter from the Adventure Romance Stone Of Heaven @Lesannsartor #RLFblog #Adventure #Romance

    Stressing Reid Hunter from the Adventure Romance Stone Of Heaven @Lesannsartor #RLFblog #Adventure #RomanceReid Hunter is down to rubbing two pennies together, but that can all change if he finds the fabled blue jade called the Stone Of Heaven. But first he has join forces with the twin sister, Tori, of his ex-partner who he knows doesn’t trust him, and maybe she shouldn’t.

    Let’s meet Reid from Stone Of Heaven, an Action Adventure Romance, by LA Sartor. Welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about your latest book.

    Stone Of Heaven by LA Sartor

    Genre Action Adventure Romance
    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): 3

    A treasure hunter goes missing in the Yucatan jungle. Her inexperienced city-girl twin rushes to the rescue. What could go wrong?

    Content with her simple life creating jewelry and living on a train, Tori Carswell is nevertheless edgy. Her adrenaline-junkie sister’s promised check-in call is overdue.

    Treasure hunting is in Reid Hunter’s blood and if he finds this fabled prize, he’ll be a rock star, able to pay his bills and salvage his reputation. But plans go horribly wrong, as the blue jade is more powerful than imagined.

    Rescuing her sister involves conquering fears Tori can’t face, let alone act on. She must rely on her twin’s Southern gentleman without-a-conscience, ex-partner Reid for help.

    Will he put riches before life…and love?

    If you liked Romancing The Stone and The Adventures of Indiana Jones, then you’ll love Stone Of Heaven – Book One in the Carswell Adventure Series.

    Stressing Reid Hunter

    Every hero has a story. He has a background, a history, and a past. This interview allows us to meet a hero and get to know him better, by focusing on how he handles being relaxed, as well as how he handles stress.

    Please tell me about your hero.

    Age: 30’s
    Gender: Male
    Birthplace: The Deep South
    Profession: Treasure Hunter
    Ethnicity: White

    What does your hero look like?

    Green eyes, with a quirky smile. Blond, close cropped hair he loves his leather fedora. Always slightly scruffy (think day-old beard) and bears himself with a self-assured air even if it’s bluff some of the time. Deep rich laugh that I adore.

    Who is the significant other in his life?

    As the book opens, nobody, although Abby, Tori’s twin sister who was his partner, seemed to be a perfect match, has fallen for another dude. Tori, the total opposite of her twin intrigues him.

    The Hero’s Relaxed Side

    This hero is at a party. Considering his story, describe the party.

    Reid is not a black tie type of guy, a good BBQ with interesting people who tell engaging stories, good simple food with a good ale or beer fits him to a T.

    How does the hero feel about being this particular party, and what body language is he displaying that gives it away?

    This party is at a dig site for a colleague, not Reid’s dig. So he isn’t on guard that someone will try and trick him to revealing information about his current quest, whatever that might be.

    Is he more likely to mingle or remain aloof?

    As the party gets a little more involved, he’ll move to the edge and simply watch everyone, sip his brew and wonder what life would be like to be more like them.

    If he drinks, what is his drink of choice at this party?

    Beer, Ale, maybe champagne in celebration. Though celebrating a dig success has been lean the past while

    How much drink is his usual?

    He doesn’t over drink and can nurse it for a long time because he spends time studying his fellow guests.

    The hero figures out where the hiding places are and then goes there. Is it to hide, to avoid someone, or to go drag a friend back to the party?

    Reid would never hide unless it’s planned to work a gig. But he need a moment to himself and would use this place to regroup, rethink and then rejoin the festivities.

    Is he likely to latch onto a friend and stay with him/her and ignore others, or is he the friend that others latch onto?

    Reid, while easy natured and charming to most people, he doesn’t make friends easily or trust people enough to love. So, he’d move from group to group once he decides to mingle again.

    If someone picked a fight at this party, how is the hero going to handle it?

    Reid would stay away unless it involves him and then he’ll try to smooth talk his way out, but he’s really good at fighting and would do so if absolutely necessary.

    Is the hero the one most likely to get tossed out of the party, or the one who does the tossing?

    To be honest, he’d likely leave before it came to that. Life is too short unless it’s about treasure, then all bets are off

    Will he know when to leave, or stay late and make a nuisance of himself?

    He’d know. He reads people well.

    The Hero’s Stressed Out Side

    How does the hero handle it if the cops or some other authority figure pulls him aside when he was blameless in a situation?

    It’s happened many times in his sometimes dubious profession. Usually he sweet talks the person into letting all go. But honestly, Reid avoids authority figures.

    How does the hero react to hearing a scream?

    He’s a snake and a Southern Gentleman. So, he’d help and then perhaps see if he could get something from it. In the nicest possible way, of course. People love him, yet those who know him best distrust him.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing that crosses his mind?

    Help the person if that person isn’t a bad guy.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing he does?

    Assess the situation is an instant find a way to rescue the person and get the heck out of the situation

    This hero attempts to rescue someone and realizes that he is in over his head. The odds are against him and there is no way out. He is going to get his butt handed to him. What does he do?

    He fights until the end.

    The hero runs into the one person from his past he wanted to avoid. He can’t get out of the situation and must interact in some way. What does he do?

    He’s cold, distant and if provoked will want to deck the person.

    Someone younger than the hero is in charge of the situation, and they are handling it badly, perhaps bungling things. How does the hero deal with it?

    Reid is gentle unless the person is trying to outwit Reid, then watch youngster and learn.

    The hero is in physical pain but must bear up under it and keep going. What does he tell himself in order to get through the situation?

    This happens to Reid in Stone Of Heaven. It’s a very interesting thread through the story, so no spoilers.

    What mentor’s words come to mind in a bad situation?

    Not so much words, but images of his Grandmother—tall and angular with auburn hair always pulled into a messy topknot and manners born and bred of Georgia—fill his mind. This God-fearing woman, who chased adventure then as he did now, had often left him in the care of nannies, but when she was home, she’d told him amazing stories and taught him how to handle a rifle, pleased as punch when he hit a nickel glued to a tree a hundred yards away.

    His reward for such a feat was to be taken on his first adventure—a tomb in Egypt.

    Maybe it wasn’t the ideal childhood for most, but it had been perfect for him.

    What lesson from his past gets him through a stressful situation?

    Thoughts of his Grandmother, her strength and her love for him.

    What one thing would you like readers to know about your hero?

    Reid is imperfect, but his backbone is strong. It’s just that he lets in so few people that most people think he’s cocky, dangerous and takes too many risks. He’s always out to prove himself and this adventure may prove to be too much even for him.

    Where to buy Stone Of Heaven

    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CVZFBV0/
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/stone-of-heaven-leslie-ann-sartor/1115375086?ean=2940016442501
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/us/book/stone-of-heaven/id652994646
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/stone-of-heaven-1

    LA Sartor Social Media

    I started writing as a child, really. A few things happened on the way to becoming a published author, specifically, a junior high school teacher who told me I couldn’t write because I didn’t want to study grammar.
    That English teacher stopped my writing for years. But the muse couldn’t be denied, and eventually I wrote, a lot, some of it award winning. However, I wasn’t really making a career from any of this.
    My husband told me repeatedly that independent publishing was becoming a valid way to publish a novel. I didn’t believe him, I thought indie meant vanity press.
    I couldn’t have been more wrong.
    I started pursuing this direction seriously, hit the keyboard, learned a litany of new things and published my first novel. My second book became a bestseller, and I’m absolutely on the right course in my life.
    Please come visit me at www.lasartor.com, see my books, find my social media links, and sign up for my mailing list. I have a gift I’ve specifically created for my new email subscribers.
    Website https://lesliesartor.com/
    Blog https://anindieadventure.blogspot.com/
    Twitter https://twitter.com/LesannSartor
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/LASartor.Author
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lesann415/
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6535151
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/l-a-sartor
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0091XR9VK
    Get to know LA Sartor better by signing up for an email newsletter https://lesliesartor.com/contact-me


    Romance Lives Forever Blog (RLFblog) is closed as of Dec 1, 2023. Comments prior to 2021 have been deleted. This site will remain online until July 2025.


     

  • Gay or MM,  Stressing the Hero

    Stressing Anthony from Anthony: Single Dads of Gaynor Beach by Gabbi Grey @gabbigrey #RLFblog #MMRomance

     

    What happens when a social worker delivers not one, but two bundles of joy to the unsuspecting sperm donor? Scott Wexler, discovering he has twin nine-month-old babies, needs all the help he can get.

    Anthony Rodrigues, Gaynor Beach’s social worker, can’t help but step in to assist in this heartwarming single dad gay romance.

    Let’s meet Anthony from Anthony, a gay romance, by Gabbi Grey. Welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here!

    Please tell us about your latest book.

    Anthony by Gabbi Grey

    Genre gay romance
    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): steamy

    Anthony

    During my seven years as a social worker in Gaynor Beach, California, delivering orphaned twins to their unsuspecting father is the biggest challenge I’ve ever faced. These babies lost their mother and they need a loving parent, but is adorable Scott Wexler up to that challenge? Transferring custody is one thing—walking away is something entirely different, especially with the stress of Christmas bearing down on Scott too.

    Scott

    After escaping a miserable childhood, I’ve made a fresh start in California. I’m in charge at the Gaynor Beach Public Library, I love helping people, and I’m feeling like an actual functional human being. Then social worker Anthony Rodrigues shows up on my doorstep with twins I fathered through a sperm donation, and suddenly I’m responsible for two tiny lives. Accepting help from the gorgeous social worker is a no brainer—admitting I want him to stay is going to take a lot more courage.

    This 74k word gay romance is a slow burn, mid-angst, instalove with a geeky librarian, a by-the-book social worker, adorable twin-toddler terrors, and a beleaguered cat named Crumpy.

    Stressing Anthony

    Every hero has a story. He has a background, a history, and a past. This interview allows us to meet a hero and get to know him better, by focusing on how he handles being relaxed, as well as how he handles stress.

    Please tell me about your hero.

    Age: 30
    Gender: Male
    Birthplace: Napa Valley, CA
    Profession: Social Worker
    Ethnicity: Hispanic

    What does your hero look like?

    Anthony’s tall, dark and handsome. These days he’s sporting a beard in an attempt to look more mature. His hair’s a little long and he likes that. Especially when his partner tugs on it while they’re making love.

    Who is the significant other in his life?

    Scott Wexler – librarian in Gaynor Beach – and new single dad. Scott’s a ginger with stunning green eyes and a bit of a geeky side. He’s also a little kinky, much to Anthony’s surprise.

    The Hero’s Relaxed Side

    This hero is at a party. Considering his story, describe the party.

    Anthony’s very dedicated to his work – if he’s going to show up at a party, it’ll be for work – mostly to impress his boss.

    How does the hero feel about being this particular party, and what body language is he displaying that gives it away?

    He’s relaxed and vigilant at the same time. He wants to make a good impression on those around him – image is everything.

    Is he more likely to mingle or remain aloof?

    He’ll mingle with his co-workers and try to engage his boss in a conversation.

    f he drinks, what is his drink of choice at this party?

    He’ll have a beer, if alcohol is being served.

    How much drink is his usual?

    One beer is his absolute limit. He’s dealt with an addict in his past and he’ll never let himself lost control.

    The hero figures out where the hiding places are and then goes there. Is it to hide, to avoid someone, or to go drag a friend back to the party?

    He’ll likely need a break away from the stress of having to make a good impression. He puts up a good façade, but it’s a little tiring.

    Is he likely to latch onto a friend and stay with him/her and ignore others, or is he the friend that others latch onto?

    If he were at a party with some other gay men, he’d latch on to a friend and stay with them. He’s very loyal.

    If someone picked a fight at this party, how is the hero going to handle it?

    He’s the intervener – he’ll do everything in his power to stop the fight before it escalates. And if he has to pick sides, he’ll pick the weaker person. He always stands up for the little guy.

    Is the hero the one most likely to get tossed out of the party, or the one who does the tossing?

    He’d do the tossing – he has no patience for people who overindulge.

    Will he know when to leave, or stay late and make a nuisance of himself?

    He’ll know when to leave. Being around his co-workers might be awkward, but he can judge the perfect moment to make his exit.

    The Hero’s Stressed Out Side

    How does the hero handle it if the cops or some other authority figure pulls him aside when he was blameless in a situation?

    He’ll remain calm. He knows racial profiling is a thing, and he’ll be worried. But he’ll do everything he’s told and hope things are sorted out later. He’s innocent. He’ll hold tight to that.

    How does the hero react to hearing a scream?

    He runs toward those in needs – even if it comes at his peril.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing that crosses his mind?

    How can I intervene? If there’s a weapon, he might stop to call the cops.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing he does?

    Jumps in. He knows he’s mortal, but he’s not going to stand by and watch someone get hurt. He’ll put his own life on the line if it means he can save someone else.

    This hero attempts to rescue someone and realizes that he is in over his head. The odds are against him and there is no way out. He is going to get his butt handed to him. What does he do?

    Keeps going. He’s found himself in over his head a few times and has always come out on top, so he’ll stick firm to the belief he can do it again. Even if he goes down in defeat, he’ll be able to cling to the fact he tried.

    The hero runs into the one person from his past he wanted to avoid. He can’t get out of the situation and must interact in some way. What does he do?

    Funny, this exact thing happens to him. He doesn’t want the confrontation, but he also understands it has to happen. In the end, though, he protects those in his life who he loves the most.

    Someone younger than the hero is in charge of the situation, and they are handling it badly, perhaps bungling things. How does the hero deal with it?

    He’s faced this exact situation. He brings the twins to Scott – who’s a few years younger – and it’s soon clear that Scott’s not coping well. Anthony doesn’t hesitate – he steps in to offer a hand without being controlling. Oh, and he falls in love in the process.

    The hero is in physical pain but must bear up under it and keep going. What does he tell himself in order to get through the situation?

    You’ve borne unbearable emotional grief and anguish. You lost everyone who meant something to you. You can endure this physical pain because there’s something better on the other side.

    What mentor’s words come to mind in a bad situation?

    A high school guidance counsellor brought him back from the abyss and helped him get into college. You’re stronger than you think will always be his mantra.

    What lesson from his past gets him through a stressful situation?

    Tremendous personal losses have been his guiding principle – he ensures the helpless children in his community are cared for. The desire to keep doing that is enough to see him through even the darkest situations.

    What one thing would you like readers to know about your hero?

    He was a bit of a jerk in my book, Hugh, another book in the Single Dads of Gaynor Beach series. Yet even as I wrote him back then, I knew he had reasons for being the way he was and I also knew – without a shadow of a doubt – that I had to write his redemptive arc. I hope readers will feel I’ve done that.

    Thank you, Kayelle, for letting me share a glimpse into Anthony. I really appreciate you letting me visit.

    Where to buy Anthony

    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Anthony-Single-Dads-Gaynor-Beach-ebook/dp/B0BJQL39SZ
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/anthony-gabbi-grey/1142694635
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/ca/book/anthony/id6444502148
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/anthony-24
    Smashwords https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1179503

    Gabbi Grey Social Media

    Gabbi lives in beautiful British Columbia where her fur baby chin-poo keeps her safe from the nasty neighborhood squirrels. Working for the government by day, she spends her early mornings writing contemporary, gay, sweet, and dark erotic BDSM romances. While she firmly believes in happy endings, she also believes in making her characters suffer before finding their true love. She also writes m/f romances as Gabbi Black.

    Website https://gabbigrey.com/
    Twitter https://twitter.com/GabbiGrey
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGabbiGrey
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/authorgabbigrey/
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15456297.Gabbi_Grey
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/gabbi-grey
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Gabbi-Grey/e/B07SJVFX1M
    Get to know Gabbi Grey better by signing up for an email newsletter

     

  • Stressing the Hero,  Suspense

    Stressing JackDaniels Vaughn from A Better Man by Bernadette Jones @RomanceBJones #RLFblog #RomanticSuspense

    Stressing JackDaniels Vaughn from A Better Man by Bernadette Jones @RomanceBJones #RLFblog #RomanticSuspense

    RLF is excited to announce a NEW RELEASE by Bernadette Jones coming April 26, 2022 and available for pre-order now.

    When a stalker threatens her, trusting a stranger means surrendering control. Risking it all for her makes him a better man in Bernadette Jones new Romantic Suspense, A Better Man.

    Bernadette welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about A Better Man.

    A Better Man by Bernadette Jones

    Genre Romantic Suspense

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R

    Stripped of everything, her life threatened, she’s forced to trust a stranger.

    Kicked out of her home as a teenager, Breezy Richards made a life for herself. Never asking permission or explaining her choices. Always in control of her destiny. Now she’s hiding from a stalker, trying to stay alive back in the one place she never thought she’d call home again: Spencer, Colorado.

    The military had been the only escape for JackDaniels Vaughn. He quickly embraced the loner lifestyle, committed only to the next mission and his comrades. He’d sworn never to settle down moving from job to job, city to city, always searching for the elusive sense of purpose. Until he’s asked to protect Breezy Richards.

    Loving her made him a better man. Can he keep her alive long enough to tell her?

    Stressing JackDaniels Vaughn

    Every hero has a story. He has a background, a history, and a past. This interview allows us to meet a hero and get to know him better, by focusing on how he handles being relaxed, as well as how he handles stress.

    Please tell me about your hero.

    Age: 39

    Gender: male

    Birthplace: Small town in Kentucky

    Profession: Military Sniper, Cyber Spy, Bounty Hunter, A Fixer

    Ethnicity: No clue, never met his dad,

    What does your hero look like?

    Tall, 6′ 3-4″ Dark curly hair, brown skin, hazel eyes, muscular. Keeps in shape by running and working out.

    Who is the significant other in his life?

    Breezy Richards

    The Hero’s Relaxed Side

    This hero is at a party. Considering his story, describe the party.

    He doesn’t go to parties unless its close friends. But even at bar scene with friends he sticks to the shadows.

    How does the hero feel about being this particular party, and what body language is he displaying that gives it away?

    His gaze is always searching watching the guests to see who’s drank too much, who is uneasy, who might be upset. Who is overly happy. He pays attention to body language. If strangers will be there he’s already done research on them.

    Is he more likely to mingle or remain aloof?

    He stays in the shadow. Will talk a little more with the handful of people in his chosen family, but with strangers he will be assessing them.

    If he drinks, what is his drink of choice at this party?

    His mom was a drunk. He was named after one of her favorite whiskeys: Jack Daniels

    How much drink is his usual?

    If he has whiskey, he allows himself only two fingers. Or only two beers. He never mixes the two. It doesn’t bother him to sit with a glass of water. His man-card isn’t tied to how much liquor he can drink.

    The hero figures out where the hiding places are and then goes there. Is it to hide, to avoid someone, or to go drag a friend back to the party?

    If he has a friend that is hiding, he goes to see why and who they’re hiding from. Then he takes care of the problem.

    Is he likely to latch onto a friend and stay with him/her and ignore others, or is he the friend that others latch onto?

    Always a loner. He’s just now learning to have friends. He still stays in the wings.

    If someone picked a fight at this party, how is the hero going to handle it?

    Because he’s constantly watching, he probably saw the fight coming and stepped in before it escalated.

    Is the hero the one most likely to get tossed out of the party, or the one who does the tossing?

    He does the tossing, and not always gently.

    The Hero’s Stressed Out Side

    How does the hero handle it if the cops or some other authority figure pulls him aside when he was blameless in a situation?

    He learned at an early age that he looks like the scapegoat, those experiences taught him to go still and remain placid. To bide his time.

    How does the hero react to hearing a scream?

    His training and need to prepare for split second decisions takes over and his response is to investigate. He goes in silent and cautiously to get a feel for the situation. Once assessed, he makes a mental plan with at least one backup contingency before taking action.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing that crosses his mind?

    Why? Who’s in the wrong?

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing he does?

    Stop it. Then figure out who is in the wrong.

    This hero attempts to rescue someone and realizes that he is in over his head. The odds are against him and there is no way out. He is going to get his butt handed to him. What does he do?

    Keeps fighting while mentally assessing alternatives.

    The hero runs into the one person from his past he wanted to avoid. He can’t get out of the situation and must interact in some way. What does he do?

    He walks away.

    Someone younger than the hero is in charge of the situation, and they are handling it badly, perhaps bungling things. How does the hero deal with it?

    He let’s them make their mistakes unless a life is on the line.

    The hero is in physical pain but must bear up under it and keep going. What does he tell himself in order to get through the situation?

    Focus on the mission.

    What one thing would you like readers to know about your hero?

    He carries the blame and guilt for something that happened to a loved one. This guilt has caused him to devalue his own worth. He thinks of himself as expendable.

    Where to buy A Better Man

    Universal Buy Link https://books.apple.com/us/book/id1618814744
    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XNQL8FG
    Barnes and Noble https://bit.ly/BarnesNoble_ABETTERMAN
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/us/book/id1618814744
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/a-better-man-28

    Bernadette Jones Social Media

    Romantic Suspense Writer, Never Give Up-er, First Wives Club-er, Lifelong Dream Achiever & Mom.

    Bernadette Jones writes romantic suspense and mystery novels. Her books are filled with strong heroes and heroines who are looking for an equal partner in their search for answers, justice and love. The love is everlasting, the romance steamy and the suspense will keep you on the edge of your seat. With a personal belief in the power of the chosen family her characters are bound to their circle of friends regardless of the cost or danger and most often a book of their own!

    After a career in corporate writing and living all over the country, she’s decided to settle down and put pen to paper doing what she loves. Living the dream in her NYC apartment with her canine companion, she’s bringing her stories and characters to life.

    If you’re interested in learning more and being the first to hear about new releases, visit her website at BernadetteJones.com

    Website https://www.bernadettejones.com/
    Twitter https://twitter.com/RomanceBJones
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/BernadetteJonesAuthor
    Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/bernadettejonesauthor/
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19728724.Bernadette_Jones
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/bernadette-jones
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Bernadette-Jones/e/B07ZY84C6K/
    Linktree https://linktr.ee/BernadetteJonesAuthor
    Get to know Bernadette Jones better by signing up for an email newsletter https://www.bernadettejones.com/newsletters

  • Stressing the Hero,  Suspense

    Stressing Owen Strong from the #RomanticSuspense Lonely Eyes by Bernadette Jones @RomanceBJones #RLFblog

    Stressing Owen Strong from the #RomanticSuspense Lonely Eyes by Bernadette Jones @RomanceBJones #RLFblogThere is an art to pursuit. A runaway on a storm-buffeted highway brings danger to Spencer, Co., in Bernadette Jones’ new romantic suspense, Lonely Eyes. Can Owen protect this young woman, or will her presence cause the death of one of his family?

    Let’s meet Owen Strong from Lonely Eyes, a Romantic Suspense, by Bernadette Jones. Welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about your latest book.

    Lonely Eyes by Bernadette Jones

    Genre Romantic Suspense

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R

    There is an art to pursuit.

    Keira is running out of time. The handsome stranger with a dragon tattoo says he can keep her safe, but he doesn’t know the demons on her trail… Will her mysterious past lead her to escape, or drag her back to living hell?

    Owen Strong has suffered tragedy, but he’s made a new family in Spencer, Colorado–one he will protect at all costs. When he finds determined Keira Hoa, she rouses more than just trouble. Looking into her lonely eyes, he sees that everyone’s in danger.

    But she’s come to the right place. He’s the monster hunter.

    Stressing Owen Strong

    Every hero has a story. He has a background, a history, and a past. This interview allows us to meet a hero and get to know him better, by focusing on how he handles being relaxed, as well as how he handles stress.

    Please tell me about your hero.

    Age: 33

    Gender: male

    Birthplace: Chicago

    Profession: Mechanic

    What does your hero look like?

    Huge. He’s always been large, at 6’2″ with broad shoulders and chest. He works out daily, because his past careers as a bounty hunter and MMA fighter made staying in shape essential.

    Who is the significant other in his life?

    Keira Hoa Thi. He found her on a storm buffeted highway. She’s in trouble and he vows to protect her.

    The Hero’s Relaxed Side

    This hero is at a party. Considering his story, describe the party.

    He’s at a house warming party after he and his friends have helped paint and move his buddy and wife into their new home. There will be beer, pizza and a lot of joking around.

    How does the hero feel about being this particular party, and what body language is he displaying that gives it away?

    There will be moments where he relaxes against a wall and soaks in the camaraderie and comfort of knowing he has a chosen family.

    Is he more likely to mingle or remain aloof?

    He will do a little of both. But his nature is to watch and guard those that are important to him so he will always be a touch alloof and on guard.

    If he drinks, what is his drink of choice at this party?

    He’ll have a beer or maybe a shot of whiskey, but he never allows himself too much. He really likes water and juice.

    How much drink is his usual?

    One or two.

    The hero figures out where the hiding places are and then goes there. Is it to hide, to avoid someone, or to go drag a friend back to the party?

    He choses his friends wisely. Most of them are hard-working and ex-military. They watch out for each other. If someone is having a problem, he’s in their space helping them out or setting them straight.

    Is he likely to latch onto a friend and stay with him/her and ignore others, or is he the friend that others latch onto?

    He has his circle of friends and they all watch out for each other. They mingle equally.

    If someone picked a fight at this party, how is the hero going to handle it?

    He will break it up and then set both parties down and get it straightened out.

    Is the hero the one most likely to get tossed out of the party, or the one who does the tossing?

    Definitely do the tossing.

    Will he know when to leave, or stay late and make a nuisance of himself?

    Always knows when to leave.

    The Hero’s Stressed Out Side

    How does the hero handle it if the cops or some other authority figure pulls him aside when he was blameless in a situation?

    Immediately starts strategizing his best response and plays to whatever will settle the situation quickly. He is a chameleon playing whatever part he needs to.

    How does the hero react to hearing a scream?

    Immediately moves to find the source and the reason. He is quick and quiet.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing that crosses his mind?

    Assess the situation and the location. Could there be more assailants on the way? What are his best defensive strategies for the location?

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing he does?

    Separates the combatants, then finds out who started it and why.

    This hero attempts to rescue someone and realizes that he is in over his head. The odds are against him and there is no way out. He is going to get his butt handed to him. What does he do?

    Never give up. Think with your head, use your brawn to your advantage.

    The hero runs into the one person from his past he wanted to avoid. He can’t get out of the situation and must interact in some way. What does he do?

    Always aware of what is going on around him. He would see the person first and if he doesn’t want to be seen, he will disappear.

    Someone younger than the hero is in charge of the situation, and they are handling it badly, perhaps bungling things. How does the hero deal with it?

    He will always attempt to instruct and educate, but if there is danger involved he will take over.

    The hero is in physical pain but must bear up under it and keep going. What does he tell himself in order to get through the situation?

    He trains in several martial arts and was a street fighter. Pain is part of life. He blanks it out.

    What mentor’s words come to mind in a bad situation?

    He’s relied on himself for a very long time. He has a ‘just do it’ attitude.

    What lesson from his past gets him through a stressful situation?

    Think it through and never give up.

    What one thing would you like readers to know about your hero?

    He’s lost a lot of people he loved. Once he takes you on as his chosen family he will protect you with his life.

    Where to buy Lonely Eyes

    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08JJL2BSR

    Bernadette Jones Social Media

    Bernadette Jones has been making up stories since she learned to read on her daddy’s lap. She has imagined casts of characters everywhere she’s called home: Texas, Oregon, South Dakota, Nebraska, Illinois, Massachusetts and now New York.
    Books and music filled her life as she, her dad and two brothers traveled the country. She would sit in the back seat of the car (her older brother always got to ride shotgun), listening to the current music on the radio, looking out the window and spinning a story based on a phrase or word she’d heard in the lyrics. As you can imagine, traveling the country the music changed from state to state, as did the stories. To this day she loves all genres of music and books.
    After a career in corporate writing, she’s finally decided to settled down and put pen to paper doing what she loves. Living the dream in her NYC apartment with her canine companion, she’s is bringing her stories and characters to life. This is Bernadette’s third book in the Aspen Gold Series.
    Website https://www.bernadettejones.com/
    Twitter https://twitter.com/RomanceBJones
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/BernadetteJonesAuthor/
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  • Character Interviews,  Erotic,  Stressing the Hero

    Stressing the Hero from The Gazillionaire and the Virgin a scorching #HotRead #Romance by Lisabet Sarai @lisabetsarai #RLFblog

    When Silicon Valley entrepreneur Rachel Zelinsky meets reclusive genius Theo Moore, she finds him strangely compelling. Theo is both arrogant and socially awkward, but he has an aura of power that speaks to Rachel’s carefully-hidden submissive side.

    The Gazillionaire and the Virgin

    Genre MF Contemporary BDSM Erotic Romance

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): X

    Disturbed and aroused, she tries to focus on her original objective—a deal to incorporate his Artificial Intelligence software into her company’s popular virtual world. Rachel’s not a woman who lets pleasure interfere with business, but for some reason, she can’t resist Theo’s geeky appeal.

    Theo Moore can’t be bought. His past battles with poverty make him deeply suspicious of the billionaire CEO. Still, with her voluptuous curves and brilliant mind, Rachel embodies his ultimate sexual fantasy. Too bad his knowledge about sex derives from extensive research and a stash of kinky porn rather than real-world experience.

    That doesn’t bother Rachel, however. In his bed—in his arms—in his bonds—she discovers the bliss of total surrender. Rachel may be Theo’s first lover, but Theo is Rachel’s first true Master—and the first man to truly touch her heart. It seems that love may harmonize their differing goals and values, until Rachel’s unwitting violation of Theo’s trust threatens to tear them apart forever.

    Stressing The Hero

    Every hero has a story. He has a background, a history, and a past. This interview allows us to meet a hero and get to know him better, by focusing on how he handles being relaxed, as well as how he handles stress.

    The Hero’s Relaxed Side

    This hero is at a party. Considering his story, describe the party.

    Theo actually does attend a party in the book, a fund-raising event for his technology charity Code in the Hood (CIH) that’s organized by the heroine, Rachel Zelinsky. The event takes place at the Computer History Museum, a real museum in Silicon Valley. There’s an open bar, a buffet, a band playing soft rock, and lots of technology executives with cash to burn milling around.

    He’s anything but relaxed, though!

    How does the hero feel about being this particular party, and what body language is he displaying that gives it away?

    He’d rather be almost anywhere else. He parks himself at a table in the corner and fidgets with the CIH brochures stacked up in the center, at least until Rachel drags him out to socialize with potential donors.

    Is he more likely to mingle or remain aloof?

    He’d much rather remain aloof, but Rachel won’t let him. However, once he gets started talking about the charity which is his personal passion, his nervousness disappears.

    If he drinks, what is his drink of choice at this party?

    At this party he has his first taste of champagne. And he likes it very much!

    How much drink is his usual?

    Theo hardly ever drinks. Once he tastes the champagne, though, he wants more.

    The hero figures out where the hiding places are and then goes there. Is it to hide, to avoid someone, or to go drag a friend back to the party?

    Theo would love to hide. Crowds and strangers make him terribly anxious.

    Is he likely to latch onto a friend and stay with him/her and ignore others, or is he the friend that others latch onto?

    He hangs on to Rachel for dear life. She’s the only person he knows at the party, and the only one who can keep him from panicking.

    If someone picked a fight at this party, how is the hero going to handle it?

    If you asked Theo this question in the abstract, he’d tell you that he’d run and hide. In fact, he’d probably try to break up the fight, then possibly freak out afterward.

    Is the hero the one most likely to get tossed out of the party, or the one who does the tossing?

    He’s not likely to get tossed out. He’s generally pretty mild-mannered. It’s pretty difficult to imagine him tossing anyone else out, though physically he could manage this.

    Will he know when to leave, or stay late and make a nuisance of himself?

    He’d rather not be there at all, so he’d probably leave as soon as he could slip away.

    The Hero’s Stressed Out Side

    How does the hero handle it if the cops or some other authority figure pulls him aside when he was blameless in a situation?

    He will try to reason with the cops. He might get sarcastic. If he’s not successful in convincing them to release him, he’ll probably sulk.

    How does the hero react to hearing a scream?

    His first reaction will be to try and discover who screamed, and why. If he believes someone is being hurt, he’ll temporarily forget his self-consciousness

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing that crosses his mind?

    He wonders what was going on, and why.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing he does?

    In fact, he probably wades into the fray, trying to pull the assailant off the victim. Later, he won’t believe he’s done this.

    This hero attempts to rescue someone and realizes that he is in over his head. The odds are against him and there is no way out. He is going to get his butt handed to him. What does he do?

    When Theo can’t utilize his physical skills to implement the rescue, he’ll fall back on his intellectual abilities. He’ll try to figure out some way to trick his opponents, or to sneak away.

    The hero runs into the one person from his past he wanted to avoid. He can’t get out of the situation and must interact with him/her in some way. What does he do?

    He becomes very stiff and formal. He keep his words to a minimum, saying only what is absolutely necessary.

    Someone younger than the hero is in charge of the situation, and they are handling it badly, perhaps bungling things. How does the hero deal with it?

    He’s surprisingly bossy, giving instructions and perhaps getting a bit impatient if the person in charge doesn’t obey. He might resort to sarcasm or ridicule.

    The hero is in physical pain but must bear up under it and keep going. What does he tell himself in order to get through the situation?

    He thinks about the safety and comfort of his home, and how good it will feel to finally arrive there.

    What mentor’s words come to mind in a bad situation?

    “Don’t underestimate yourself. Expect to succeed.”

    What lesson from his past gets him through a stressful situation?

    He remembers how he saved Rachel from a cyber-assault. That reminds him how powerful he really is.

    Where to Buy The Gazillionaire and the Virgin

    Publisher http://www.excessica.com/books/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=6&products_id=1011
    Amazon http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B76B95K/
    Barnes and Noble http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-gazillionaire-and-the-virgin-lisbet-sarai/1123327821?ean=2940157884932
    Kobo https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/the-gazillionaire-and-the-virgin
    Smashwords https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/611337

    Lisabet Sarai Social Media

    Lisabet Sarai became addicted to words at an early age. She began reading when she was four. She wrote her first story at five years old and her first poem at seven. Since then, she has penned plays, tutorials, scholarly articles, marketing brochures, software specifications, self-help books, press releases, a five-hundred page dissertation, and lots of erotica and erotic romance – over one hundred titles, and counting, in nearly every sub-genre—paranormal, scifi, ménage, BDSM, GLBT, and more. Regardless of the genre, every one of her stories illustrates her motto: Imagination is the ultimate aphrodisiac.
    Website https://www.lisabetsarai.com
    Blog https://lisabetsarai.blogspot.com
    Twitter https://www.twitter.com/LisabetSarai
    Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/lisabetsarai/beyond-romance-blog-posts/
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    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/author/lisabetsarai
    Get to know Lisabet Sarai better by signing up for her email list: https://btn.ymlp.com/xgjjhmhugmghbsp;

  • Historical,  Stressing the Hero

    Stressing Seamus Tynedale from Carnal Transgression @FayeHall79 #RLFblog #HistoricalRomance

    Would you break the law to protect the woman you love from a killer? Is the Question Faye Hall asks in Carnal Transgression

    Let’s meet Seamus Tynedale from Carnal Transgression, a Historical Romance, by Faye Hall. Welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about your latest book.

    Carnal Transgression by Faye Hall

    Genre Historical Romance

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R

    Would you break the law to protect the woman you love from a killer?

    Constance Dunbar is desperate to discover who killed her sister. Her plea for help is ignored by the local police, so she advertises for a private investigator. Seamus Tynedale answers the ad, and she immediately recognizes him as the friendly stranger whose arms held her so tenderly as she wept after her sister’s death.

    Seamus longed to be reunited with the dark-haired beauty who’d kissed him in the churchyard. When he ends up working for her as a private investigator, he knows that his position as a police constable needs to remain a secret due to her mistrust of the department.

    As Seamus hunts for the murderer, he finds himself lured into a den of secrets and lies tracing back eighteen years to Ireland, and it all seems to be connected to Constance. Seamus delves into Constance’s past, hoping to understand the secrets she’s so intent on keeping hidden. What he finds is a passion that ignites his heart and captivates his senses.

    When Constance’s life comes under threat, Seamus has to choose between following the law and protecting the woman he loves from a killer. Will he be able to safeguard Constance, or will he lose her to the evil that seems to have followed her to Australia?

    Stressing Seamus Tynedale

    Stressing Seamus Tynedale from Carnal Transgression @FayeHall79 #RLFblog #HistoricalRomanceEvery hero has a story. He has a background, a history, and a past. This interview allows us to meet a hero and get to know him better, by focusing on how he handles being relaxed, as well as how he handles stress.

    Please tell me about your hero.

    Age: 38

    Gender: Nale

    Birthplace: Ireland

    Profession: Policeman

    Ethnicity: Irish

    Species (for scifi/fantasy characters):

    What does your hero look like?

    Red Hair, Green eyes, Slender build and Average height.

    Who is the significant other in his life?

    A dark haired beauty with an hourglass figure named Constance.

    The Hero’s Relaxed Side

    This hero is at a party. Considering his story, describe the party.

    It would be very quiet and traditional. Perhaps just a few friends sharing some Irish whiskey whilst reminiscing about their hometown and the friends they’d lost.

    How does the hero feel about being this particular party, and what body language is he displaying that gives it away?

    Seamus would be very uncomfortable as he’s distanced himself from people for so long.

    Is he more likely to mingle or remain aloof?

    Very aloof.

    If he drinks, what is his drink of choice at this party?

    Irish whiskey

    How much drink is his usual?

    Only a small glass or two. Not a heavy drinker at all.

    The hero figures out where the hiding places are and then goes there. Is it to hide, to avoid someone, or to go drag a friend back to the party?

    Probably to hide, but if Constance has also left the party then he’d follow her just to sneak some time alone.

    Is he likely to latch onto a friend and stay with him/her and ignore others, or is he the friend that others latch onto?

    He’d stay by Constance’s side.

    If someone picked a fight at this party, how is the hero going to handle it?

    He would try to break it up, but would only throw punches if Constance was in danger.

    Is the hero the one most likely to get tossed out of the party, or the one who does the tossing?

    Despite his small stature, he can handle himself quite well so he’d be doing the tossing in an attempt to keep the peace.

    Will he know when to leave, or stay late and make a nuisance of himself?

    He’d be one of the first to leave.

    The Hero’s Stressed Out Side

    How does the hero handle it if the cops or some other authority figure pulls him aside when he was blameless in a situation?

    He is a police officer so provided it’s not his senior Constable pulling him aside, he would be fine.

    How does the hero react to hearing a scream?

    It would trigger his protective instinct and he’d run to see if he could help.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing that crosses his mind?

    To risk life and limb to save them.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing he does?

    He’s not much of a fighter, but he’d swing enough punches until the aggressor was distracted.

    This hero attempts to rescue someone and realizes that he is in over his head. The odds are against him and there is no way out. He is going to get his butt handed to him. What does he do?

    He fights until the victim has found there way to safety no matter the cost.

    The hero runs into the one person from his past he wanted to avoid. He can’t get out of the situation and must interact in some way. What does he do?

    He’s very aloof and short in his respnses and leaves as soon as he’s able.

    Someone younger than the hero is in charge of the situation, and they are handling it badly, perhaps bungling things. How does the hero deal with it?

    Seamus would try to give advice and steer them in the right direction.

    The hero is in physical pain but must bear up under it and keep going. What does he tell himself in order to get through the situation?

    He’d remind himself of his duty and the price so many of his kinsmen had paid for his freedom.

    What mentor’s words come to mind in a bad situation?

    He’s quoted in the book as telling one character to “remember the brave man you once were.”

    What lesson from his past gets him through a stressful situation?

    Seamus has lost his family and he is constantly reminded of the sacrifice they made so he could start a new life in Australia.

    What one thing would you like readers to know about your hero?

    Seamus is loosely based on my Great Grandfather who was a policeman both in Ireland and when he migrated to Australia during the same time Carnal Transgression is set.

    Where to buy Carnal Transgression

    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096PS4KT4

    Faye Hall Social Media

    Faye Hall spent her early years listening to stories about the families – including her own – who settled townships in and around her hometown in North Queensland, Australia. The local townspeople, including her own parents, told her stories of corruption and slavery, along with family secrets and forbidden love.
    Desperate to remember what she’d been told, along with her already growing love of writing, Faye began to write about the history of her local area. Never could she have imagined the history of her small home town in Australia would become a growing list of published books.
    Faye’s passionate stories combine controversial subjects and provocative encounters as her characters struggle to survive the lifestyle in early rural townships throughout Australia. She explores slavery and abortion, drug addiction and murder, as well as forbidden love and passionate affairs of the heart.
    When she’d not writing, Faye enjoys sharing a bottle of wine with her husband in their ever-growing garden, and encouraging the varied interests of their combined family of nine children.
    Explore the world of Faye Hall, Australian Historical Romance Author at her website https://www.faye-hall.com
    Website https://www.faye-hall.com
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