Out Today from Shelby Morgen -- Redemption: Drew (Adult Excerpt)

Redemption
Shelby Morgen

Out now! From Changeling Presshttp://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=2084

Genre(s): Action Adventure/ Suspense, Erotic Romance
Length: Novel
Page Count: 304

 

Former agent Charlotte Giles escaped to the wilds of West Virginia to build a horse farm. She never expected to need her old job skills again. But when Charlie falls for a handsome cowboy who drifts into her life, she trades her own demons for his personal nightmares.

 

For Drew Bailey, an ex-con who's run out of options, hiding out in Charlie's barn seems the safest way to avoid run-ins with local law enforcement. Drew never counted on staying around long enough to fall in love. Charlie's body proves to be more addictive than freedom, and her heart holds the key to his soul. Her love may be his only Redemption…

 

Publisher's Note: Redemption is a new edition of a previously released title.

 

Excerpt:

 

From his hiding place, Drew could hear her clearly, but he knew better. Once the woman knew his name, she'd figure out the rest, and then the gig was up. He should be leaving anyway. Summer was moving on. He should have been long gone that first night, but instead he listened to her through the walls, and allowed himself to live this daydream. He whispered her name. Charlotte. Charlotte Giles.

 

In his fantasy world, she was close enough to touch. Close enough to smell. She turned her face toward him now, and the sunlight set her hair on fire. She usually wore it in a tight, thick braid down her back, but today it was loose, wild and unruly in the breeze, begging to be touched. He ached to sink his fingers into its silken masses. The color fascinated him -- warm mahogany streaked with frost on a tin roof, all on fire like the last rays of the sunset. He could almost feel it in his hands.

He should have been gone long ago, he thought again. But there was the woman in the way. He told himself Charlotte needed him, because the truth was even more painful.

 

She'd worn a flannel shirt over her T-shirt one morning, then discarded it when the sun rose higher. He held it to his face now, breathing deeply. The shirt still held a lingering trace of a subtle perfume and another, headier smell that was uniquely her own. It frightened him, this need for her. He wasn't a man who needed anything or anyone -- not anymore. He'd learned the hard way how expensive that could be -- how easily a woman could claim your soul. How she could rip your heart out and stomp it into the dirt.

No. He refused to believe that. It wouldn't be like that with this woman. Not this time. Charlotte was different. She was… Charlotte touched people. She cared. Maybe not about him, but about people, in general. She wouldn't hurt him.

Not intentionally.

He hugged the soft shirt tightly against his chest, trying to ease the ache inside. He'd had the dream again last night -- the dream that was so much better than reality had ever been. Because now the woman in the dream was Charlie. In the dream she tucked the baby in for her nap while he watched from the doorway, then she turned and led him down the hall by the hand. She closed their door, she stripped slowly out of her old jeans and pulled her T-shirt over her head, and then she came to him, naked, wanting, touching, demanding.

When he touched her, she responded to him, pulling him close… closer. When he carried her to the bed, sliding his aching cock into her tight, wet sheath, she was ready for him, wanting him, and he watched her shatter over and over again as he drove her to the edge of her endurance. In the dream he was enough for her. In the dream he was all she had ever wanted or needed.

In the dream he satisfied her.

You're a fool, he told himself. She'll never even know your name.

 

 

 

Shelby Morgen

Redemption
Drew Bailey is all a romance hero should be: tall, dark, and handsome; a great lover; and  slightly dangerous."
                                    -- Linda, Sensual Romance Reviews
Out now! From Changeling Press 

 http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=2084

The Chosen: Ukko's Discovery by Shara Azod

The Chosen: Ukko's Discovery
by Shara Azod

Cover art: Marteeka Karland
ISBN: 978-1-60521-768-0
Genre(s): Paranormal, Action Adventure/ Suspense, Dark Fantasy
Theme(s): Magic, Dark Desire
Series: The Chosen (#1)
Length: Novella
Page Count: 34

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1760

Blurb:
Ukko is a general of the Spentas. He fears nothing, backs down from nothing, questions nothing -- until he finds something he can't explain. Who is this mysterious female with powers equal to his? Who sent her? What is her purpose? And the most important question of all -- why doesn't he care about any of that?
Excerpt:
The Chosen: Ukko's Discovery
Shara Azod
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2012 Shara Azod

This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.


Nimah was in awe of the blond giant of a man she had gone to San Diego to find. A normal woman might have been freaked out to open her eyes and find herself deep in the heart of Finland. But when had her life ever been normal? She wished like hell she could answer his question, but the problem was she had no idea what she was. She just knew she was different. Always had been. A woman with no family, no history, no idea where she came from or why she could do the things she could. Her entire life she had known only one thing for sure -- one day she would meet this man, and she was meant to be here, in his arms.
Since puberty Nimah had dreamed of him. Ukko of Finland had been the number one constant in her life while all else had been transient. Abandoned at birth, she'd been raised in a series of foster and group homes until she'd turned eighteen. That was when she became aware of three very important things. The first was that she was very different from everyone around her. Her abilities were akin to something seen in a sci-fi movie. She'd had to hide all the things she could do from others all her life. Until now.
The second thing she'd been aware of since puberty was that one day she would meet this man, Ukko, and the gaping hole in the center of her soul would be filled. It made no sense in the conventional way of thinking, but Nimah had always known him. She had seen bits and pieces of his entire existence, an existence that spanned longer than recorded time.
The third thing that had been a constant in her life was the unseen threat always hovering in the shadows. Until tonight she'd never seen those who watched, constantly looking for her and others like her. She didn't know how she knew there were others, but she was as certain of it as she was that Ukko belonged to her, that she belonged to him.
If she wanted to she could will herself back to San Diego right this second. That was the last thing she wanted to do. Honestly, she hadn't wanted to run from him earlier, either. Even though Nimah had dreamed of Ukko, she'd never been able to find him. There was never enough detail in her dreams or visions to pinpoint his location until yesterday, when his location popped into her consciousness, followed by a burning need to go to him. It took nothing to be there; she'd simply closed her eyes and willed herself there. She'd left everything behind just for a chance to finally meet him.
But things went horribly wrong. The homeless man she'd helped seemed to call out to her. In some odd way he was important to her and her future. His mind had been so befuddled, a darkness clouding the thoughts trying to push through -- he wanted to tell her something. He was there for her, and Ukko. Generally she never took the chance to showcase any of her abilities. The unseen threat could find her like that. There was always a cold chill that warned her of their nearness -- a shadow that smelled of pure evil warned her to flee whenever she used any of her gifts.
Nimah had felt the moment Ukko spotted her. His disbelief at what he was seeing as she healed the homeless man, his confusion and suspicion, bombarded her like physical blows. As much as her body and soul cried out for him, her first impulse had been to run. It had been so hard to even think! Her pussy creamed, aching with every step. She wanted to stop and run into his arms, but she just couldn't.
So she'd run from him. Too intent on getting away from the man she wanted desperately but was suddenly unsure of, she'd missed the internal warning hardwired in her brain to disappear whenever an all-too-familiar chill raced down her spine. Their sudden appearance threw her. Expecting hideous, monstrous creatures, she was completely unprepared for the beautiful evil that tried to touch her.
Everything within her had rebelled at the wrongness of their touch. Repelling them had been remarkably easy, but Nimah knew without really knowing that it had been Ukko's presence that enabled her to create the energy that felled them. Then why was it that Ukko, who she knew instinctively was far more powerful than she, could not do as she had done?
"What are you, woman?" Ukko demanded yet again, crushing her body to him. He looked so deliciously furious. Confused and turned on at the same time. Even with his lips pressed into a tight line, they looked so amazingly kissable. Proof of his desire pressed insistently against her. She didn't mean to rub up against it, not really. The sharp tug on her hair in response made her moan, her nipples hardening against his chest.
"I'm yours." The words came out in a whisper of their own will. Nimah didn't expect for them to be received very well. What kind of a man wanted some random woman declaring herself to be his, despite the bizarre circumstances of this entire situation?
In response, his lips crushed hers this time. This kiss was as possessive as the first had been passionate. As if to confirm her statement, Ukko took everything, leaving her panting and breathless before abruptly stepping away. "You are no human woman." Nimah had no idea what he meant by that. As far as she knew she was human. Wasn't she? "You say you are mine, prove it."
"What -- what do you mean?" Her heart thundered in her chest. Had she been wearing underwear, they would have been sodden by now. Her jeans felt abrasive against the bare skin of her cunt. She had prepared for this.
With a wave of his hand, her clothing tore apart, falling at her feet. Though she knew he could have easily disrobed himself in a similar way, he stood fully clothed, his hands going to the fastening of his pants.
"Kneel, Nimah. Show me how much you are mine."

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1760

Dragonfire: Chosen by BJ McCall

Dragonfire: Chosen
by B.J. McCall

Cover art: Bryan Keller
ISBN: 978-1-60521-744-4
Genre(s): Action Adventure/ Suspense, Urban Fantasy
Theme(s): Shapeshifters, Elves, Dragons & Magical Creatures
Series: Dragonfire
Length: Novella

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1758

Blurb:
A thousand years ago, two dragon clans went to war over a cache of gold. To end the war a sorcerer hid the gold and foretold of the birth of a female bearing the mark of the dragon.
Born with a dragon on her hip, Karis Nordrath is the chosen and because the mark she's been guarded all of her life. According to legend the location of the gold will be revealed when the chosen is bonded with her dragon mate, but the only dragon that stirs Karis' fire is bodyguard, Rett Aurumon.
Rett left the Fire Mountains to follow a wanderlust he couldn't explain until he laid eyes on Karis. Hired as her bodyguard, Rett doesn't know if his true role is protector or mate. He doesn't know Karis is the chosen, but he knows she's the one.
Excerpt:
Dragonfire: Chosen
B.J. McCall
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2012 B.J. McCall

This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.


Rett Aurumon stood in the front foyer of Gaden Hazac's apartment waiting for his client. He walked to the end of the foyer, careful not to step into the spacious living room of glass, chrome and leather. The room had all the warmth of the man who lived within its pale gray walls.
Barefoot and wearing a pair of black sweats, Hazac entered the living room. "She'll be ready shortly. Her hair was mussed."
The tone of the lawyer's voice and his lack of clothing got the point across. Hazac wanted Rett to know he and Miss Nordrath had had sex. Rett had often wondered why the man felt it necessary to make this point to a bodyguard. Rett liked his job and his growing feelings for the woman he was hired to protect were disturbing, but he was certain of one thing. He disliked Gaden Hazac. "Thank you, Mr. Hazac."
The lawyer walked over to a wet bar and poured himself a drink. Then Hazac turned his back on Rett and stared out the window at the city skyline.
Rett hadn't expected his client's boyfriend to engage him in conversation, and he'd never been invited into the living area of the apartment. He didn't mind remaining in the foyer without benefit of restroom or a drink of water. The job required hours of tedious waiting. At least Rett didn't have to listen to Hazac and his client making love.
The driver called to tell Rett the armored vehicle was in front of the building. Rett disconnected and his client entered the living room. Her dark gold hair was loose, flowing over her shoulders. She wore a bright blue blouse that complemented her eyes and a gray skirt that accentuated her trim figure. Rett longed to let his gaze drift slowly down her shapely legs to the high heels she wore, but he kept his focus.
Hazac hustled to her side and wrapped his arm around her waist. "Hey, baby." When Hazac leaned down to kiss her, Miss Nordrath turned so that his lips brushed her cheek. She looked at Rett. "Is the car ready?"
"Waiting out front, Miss Nordrath."
His client stepped back, extricating herself from Hazac. "Goodnight, Gaden."
"I'll call you tomorrow," Hazac said.
Rett opened the front door and checked the hallway. As he escorted his client out of the apartment, Rett glanced at Hazac. "Goodnight, Mr. Hazac."
The lawyer glared at him, then downed his drink.
When they reached the elevator, Rett pushed the call button. "Did you have a nice evening, Miss Nordrath?"
She sighed. "Not one of my best."
They stepped into the empty elevator. "Are you headed home, Miss?"
"Yes, thank you."
As the car descended, Rett took advantage of the private moment to admire his client. She was twenty-seven, stunningly beautiful, with a generous smile and a musical laugh. Her features were delicate, her pale golden skin was flawless, her neck graceful, her breasts nicely rounded, her waist trim, her ass perfect and her legs long.
And the dreams she wrought were making his nights pure agony.
She glanced at him and smiled. Rett was sure she'd caught him looking, but was saved by the loud ding of the elevator bell, announcing they'd descended to the lobby floor. The doors opened. Rett stepped out first and checked the building's foyer before his client exited the car.
He repeated the security check as they exited the building.
"Rett, why don't you call me Karis?"
Because I need the reminder that I'm just an employee.
"I'm following instructions, Miss."
"My father's instructions? You have my permission to call me Karis."
"Thank you, Miss."
He opened the back door of the Nordrath vehicle. Karis' car was heavily armored with a trained driver at the wheel. Rett rarely left her side. She climbed into the vehicle, then looked up at Rett and grinned. "You're not going to do it, are you?"
He grinned back. "No, Miss."
Rett shut the heavy door. He'd never say it out loud, but that wouldn't stop him from thinking of her as Karis.
http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1758

Lionsblood Collection by Marteeka Karland

Lionsblood (Collection)
by Marteeka Karland

Cover art: Marteeka Karland
ISBN: 978-1-60521-766-6
Genre(s): Futuristic, Paranormal, Action Adventure/ Suspense, Collections
Theme(s): Shapeshifters, Audio Books
Series: Lionsblood
Length: Collection
Page Count: 165

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1764

Blurb:
In Earth's brutal, future frozen, humans are no longer at the top of food chain. Paranormals roam the frozen wastes, laying claim to whatever they can defend. Humans are tolerated by some, but not all of the new species.
The most vicious of the new races are the Lionsblood. No one dares defy a Lionsblood. These predators take what they want and never look back. These men are as protective as they are dangerous -- especially when it comes to their chosen mates.
This collection contains the previously released novellas Lionsblood, Lionsmate, Lionsbane, and Lionsheart.
Excerpt:
Lionsblood
Marteeka Karland
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2012 Marteeka Karland
Excerpt from Snowbound: Lionsblood
This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.
"What?" The familiar masculine growl of her long time friend Klark almost made Marie sob with relief when he answered on the third chime.
"Klark, I'm so sorry to call this late." She had probably awakened him from his nightly hibernation. Most lionsblood were already deeply asleep by two hours past nightfall. It protected them from the bitter cold that blanketed the northern hemisphere of Earth at night. Not that the temperature was much better during the day. Given the fact that he'd answered at all, he probably hadn't settled down yet for the night.
"Don't worry about it. What's wrong?" He knew her too well. Unless she missed her guess, Klark wouldn't let her gloss anything over. He'd make her tell him everything before the night was out.
"Nothing's wrong, I just need a ride home."
There was a long pause.
"Where are you?"
She took a deep breath. This was the hard part. "Shiffley's Bar."
Again, there was silence.
"Do you have the gem I gave you?"
Marie blinked several times, the question catching her off guard. "Yes." She didn't dare tell him she'd made it into a necklace she never took off.
"Go to Shiff. Show him the stone. He'll put you in a safe room. Do not leave that room."
The link went dead, and Marie cringed. They'd been friends too long for her to hope he'd let this drop. He might not question her tonight, but there would be a grilling, and Klark never stopped until he had all the information he wanted. Not only that, but given Klark's temper, things didn't bode well for her tonight.
She did as he instructed and was shown to a tiny room. She sat down on the bed. The one window was laser-proof and tinted, but she could still see the perpetual drifts of snow that blanketed the landscape outside. Shiff, the vampire lionsblood hybrid, kept the room as a haven for humans caught out in the violent night. Not only were the preternaturals and immortals deadly to humans, but the night turned the Earth into a frozen wasteland in excess of 100 degrees below zero in the summer, and 150 below in the winter. The only things keeping humans alive were the underground farms and the few above ground "safe rooms" the hybrids built for their "pets." This safe room was impenetrable, and impossible to leave unless Shiff allowed it.
When the heavy titanium door burst open, only to slam shut so hard her insides shook, naturally she nearly jumped out of her skin. What a time for him to choose to remind her of the strength of a lionsblood. In this world, the lionsblood were at the top of the food chain.
"Jesus Holy God!" She was at once relieved to see Klark standing there, but her relief was short lived. He looked livid.
http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1764

Protect and Serve 13: The Big Blue by Anne Kane

Protect and Serve: The Big Blue
by Anne Kane

Cover art: Bryan Keller
ISBN: 978-1-60521-754-3
Genre(s): Futuristic, Paranormal, Action Adventure/ Suspense
Theme(s): Shapeshifters, Men and Women in Uniform
Series: Protect and Serve
Length: Novella

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1752

Blurb:
Polar bear shifters are rare these days, and most of them keep a low profile. Tundra knows the rules, but tonight she needs to get laid and it will take a strong man to satisfy her.
Alec's buddies call him the Big Blue, and they're closer to the truth than most of them know. Trolls have a nasty reputation in this brave new world.
The very first time Tundra sees Blue, she knows she has to have him. What she doesn't realize is that she'll never want to let him go. When Alex goes to confront the head of a vicious Cabal, Tundra follows to make sure he doesn't get hurt. After all, even a troll's hide isn't as thick as a polar bear's.
Excerpt:
Protect and Serve: The Big Blue
Anne Kane
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2012 Anne Kane

This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.


I stalked across the bar and hauled myself up onto one of the few empty barstools. It looked like the entire neighborhood had decided to drown their sorrows at the same time. At least that meant there was a good selection of men available. Good thing, because right now I was feeling hornier than a werewolf during the full moon, and pissed enough not to be too picky about whom I chose to spend the night with. Talks with my self-appointed guardian Tyrone always had this effect on me. Make that monologues. I don't think I'd managed to get in more than two words during the entire fiasco.
I waved my hand to catch Sam's attention, and motioned him to bring me a drink. Sam had been bartending at Joe's Bar long enough to know what I wanted. I swiveled the chair and surveyed the room, considering my options. The three guys at the pool table weren't bad looking, and there were a few likely candidates at a table in the far corner, but they all looked just a tad too civilized for my taste tonight. I was in the mood for something wild.
A gust of wind drew my attention to the door. The man who entered sent heat curling deep in my gut. Civilized was the last word that came to mind. Hard. Wild. Uncivilized. Yeah, those described him to a T.
A riot of dark hair curled all the way to the blue uniform stretched tight across his huge shoulders. He reminded me of the football players at the inner city stadiums, wide and covered with thick ropes of muscle. A tingle of anticipation raced through me. His dark eyes swept the room with cynical disinterest as he shouldered his way through the noisy crowd, and I found myself holding my breath as I waited for him to notice me.
"He's trouble, Tundra. Don't even think about it." Sam slapped the beer down in front of me, breaking the spell.
"You know him?" I ignored the bartender's frown. I was way past needing someone to vet my dates. "I don't remember seeing him in here before."
Sam nodded. "Alex is a loner, a beat cop down at the precinct. He doesn't come in here often. Last time he did, it took me two days to clean up the mess." He leaned forward, lowering his voice so I had to strain to hear his words. "I heard a rumor that there's a troll somewhere in his family tree, and I'm inclined to believe it."
"Really." I swept my tongue across my suddenly dry lips as I watched the slide of tight material over his ass. "That could make things very... interesting." Sam snorted and shook his head as I took a long pull on my drink. "That's one word for it. Don't say I didn't warn you!"
I laughed, throwing him a saucy grin as I slid off the barstool. "Warning duly noted. Wish me luck!" Turning my back on his disapproving frown, I wound my way through the dense crowd toward my target.
He'd taken a seat at a small table and was watching the trio at the pool table mangle a simple game of spots and stripes. One of the scantily clad waitresses swooped in to deposit a drink in front of him, bending forward so far that I fully expected her ample bosoms to fall out of the low-cut bodice of her dress. She had better not be under the impression that she stood a chance with him, because I was more than willing to get into a fight tonight. A little pre-coitus bloodshed would be just a bonus.
The man tossed some credits at her, and she flounced away to take orders from another table. I found myself feeling mildly disappointed. I hadn't been in a good fight in at least two moons. Wouldn't hurt to get in a little practice.
Reaching my destination, I pulled out the other chair at the table and sat down beside my target. I took my time assessing him close up, letting my gaze wander from the tips of his serviceable boots and up his muscular legs to the impressive bulge at his groin. Looked like I wouldn't have to work too hard to get what I wanted.
I took another gulp of my beer and considered the vast expanse of his chest, barely covered by the tight uniform. A unicorn tattoo on his biceps seemed incongruous with the rough attitude, and being my usual tactful self, I decided not to mention it.
Yeah, right. Me? Tactful? "So what's with the prissy little horse?" I nodded at the tattoo. "Lose a bet or something?"
I found myself staring into the darkest eyes I'd ever encountered; pools of liquid heat. For a moment, I thought I'd blown my chance of playing ride-em cowboy with him, but then the corners of his eyes crinkled and he let out a bellow of real, straight-from-the-gut laughter. It made him look even hotter, which I hadn't thought possible. My libido kicked into high gear, and I could feel the liquid heat gathering at the apex of my thighs. Idly, I wondered if he'd go for the direct approach and save us both some time. I decided not to risk it.
"The prissy little horse has a certain sentimental value that I only share with close friends." The man's eyes swept over me with obvious interest. "Do I know you?"
I decided to play it cool and mysterious. Who knows? It worked on those old video flicks they showed on public TV. "Not yet, but the night is young." Okay, that just sounded stupid. I smiled in what I hoped was a seductive manner. "My name is Tundra."
A slow, sexy smile turned his face into an open invitation -- one I had every intention of accepting. When he spoke, his voice had the smooth, deep inflection of a very old bottle of expensive whiskey. "That's a very unusual name. Nice to meet you, Tundra."
He held his hand out and I stared at it like an idiot. He wanted to shake hands? Not exactly what I'd envisioned, but hey, it was a start. I took his hand and shook it. It was big. Real big. Heat crawled up my spine as I imagined it caressing my breasts. Or sliding across my naked ass. "Nice to meet you too..." I arched my eyebrow as it occurred to me I had no idea what his name was.
The smile widened. "Alex. But most people just call me Big Blue."
I took a long drink, letting the silence stretch out. "Big Blue. How interesting. Referring to your uniform, I assume?"
He chuckled. "Well, that would be the Blue part."
"And the Big?" It took all my self-control to keep my gaze from straying to that thick bulge at his groin.
He kept eye contact, the grin on his face taking on a mischievous look as he reached for my hand and drew it slowly toward his lap. He didn't say anything else. He didn't have to. Under my questing fingers, that huge lump grew even bigger. Big Blue indeed! "Oh my."
http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1752

Love Reversed by Zenobia Renquist

Love Reversed
by Zenobia Renquist

Cover art: Karen Fox
ISBN: 978-1-60521-747-5
Genre(s): Paranormal, Action Adventure/ Suspense
Theme(s): Interracial/MultiCultural, Magic
Length: Novella
Page Count: 65

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1749

Blurb
Cinnamon came to the Hawaii celebrity retreat to meet her favorite actress. Calhoun crashed to find answers about his missing uncle. Neither of them signed on for the part of the tour that included body swapping. They have to find a way to switch back without anyone realizing their predicament. Long nights of searching for answers become even longer when curiosity takes over. It's a once in a lifetime chance to see how the other half loves, and they don't plan to let it slip away.
Excerpt
Love Reversed
Zenobia Renquist
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2011 Zenobia Renquist

This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.


Cinnamon spotted Calhoun walking away from the outdoor banquet back toward the hotel. He must have forgotten something in his room. The man didn't act like he wanted to be at the retreat even though he had paid a lot of money to get a room at the overbooked hotel hosting it. He showed no interest in the people or the events, and actually seemed annoyed to be there.
So why come? It made no sense.
Normally something like that wouldn't bug her but he drew her eye. It had to be the full sleeve of tattoos that covered his right arm from his wrist all the way up the back of his bald scalp.
Beautiful art, no matter where it was located, always caught her eye. Calhoun's sepia-colored tattoos had clean, sharp lines defining each of the religious symbols -- Ancient Egyptian scarabs, Chinese dragons, Celtic runes, and so on. She could only guess he wanted to cover all the bases.
She would love to meet his tattoo artist just in case she ever got up the nerve to actually get ink of her own. The pain didn't deter her. She just didn't know what she wanted or where she wanted it. That had to mean she wasn't ready to get one.
Asking about tattoos and artists would have to wait. She had another reason to seek out Calhoun, so she followed him to the back of the hotel near the delivery and loading area. While she didn't want to miss the rest of the dinner, she did want her bracelet back. Calhoun had said he could fix it easily. His wandering around had to mean it was finished. If not, she would rather he simply return it so she could get it fixed somewhere else.
Calhoun entered a glass door that had Employees Only embossed on it in big, bold lettering. He wasn't an employee. He had arrived on Hawaii the same day she had. That's how he ended up with her bracelet. It snagged on his suitcase at the baggage claim carousel while she tried to retrieve her own bag. The result -- a broken bracelet clasp.
The door slammed shut behind him, and Cinnamon waited. He would come out any second after he realized his mistake... if it was a mistake. Though she couldn't reason why it wouldn't be a mistake. Maybe he'd gone in search of a restroom, which meant he would exit any minute.
She watched the door, but Calhoun didn't exit. While the cool night breeze felt good against her legs, she couldn't stand there forever, waiting for him. When a big cheer sounded from the area where the banquet was taking place, Cinnamon glanced in that direction then looked back at the door. Still no Calhoun.
Well, whatever he was doing in there was none of her business. She turned and headed back to the banquet. She had paid a lot of money to get to Hawaii so she could visit with Dannah Ridge, a legendary black actress who had been Cinnamon's idol from the moment she laid eyes on the woman. Some people even said Cinnamon looked like a younger Dannah, except Cinnamon's breasts were bigger, and her cheeks sported dimples instead of a beauty mark.
A rustling sound drew her attention back to the employees' entrance. Two men carrying a wriggling, writhing duffel bag between them went through the same door.
Cinnamon frowned. Maybe it was paranoia talking, but that bag had looked a lot like a person struggling to get out. She shook her head, dismissing her silly ideas. Too many cop dramas had her seeing crimes where there were none. Except... she couldn't stop staring at the door.
Had the men run into Calhoun and attacked him for being in the wrong place at the wrong time? Or maybe Calhoun was meeting them. He had crashed the party. If not for Dannah's fellow actor and long time paramour Flint East, Calhoun would have never gotten a room at the hotel because they were booked solid for the all-star retreat -- an event featuring actors of old and their adoring fans.
Did that mean Calhoun had crashed to do something shady? And maybe Flint East was helping him and that was how a room had miraculously become available?
Cinnamon found herself walking toward the door. Despite Calhoun's rough exterior and gruff attitude, she couldn't see him as the type who would harm someone without just cause. Her instincts about people were usually right.
As she reached for the doorknob, she muttered, "This is the part in the horror movie when the audience writes off the woman as TSTL for not minding her own business and then laughs when her stupidity gets her killed."
Thankfully, her life wasn't a movie, especially not a horror movie. She still hoped her nosy nature didn't get her into trouble.
She slipped past the door quickly, throwing a glance over her shoulder to make sure no one had followed her or raised an alarm. Everything remained quiet. She looked for clues to Calhoun's whereabouts. The door led to a long corridor with doors at odd intervals. Cinnamon didn't plan to check the doors in case people were behind them that might object to her being there. She did peek into the few rooms with open doors.
Nothing.
If Calhoun and those mystery men with the duffel bag were there, they were hiding. She shrugged and chalked it up to a loss. Calhoun had to come out some time. She would get her bracelet back from him then.
Someone grabbed her from behind, clapped their hand over her mouth, and pulled her back into the shadows against a solid chest. She prepared to employ every technique she had learned in self-defense class.
"Next time you want to sneak up on me, try wearing less perfume, Cinnamon." Calhoun whispered those words so close to her ear that his hot breath feathered across her cheek. "What are you doing here?"
She pulled his hand down and whispered back, "What about you? I doubt you're an employee. And what happened to those two guys with the duffel bag?"
"Saw them, did you?"
"Yes. They came in right after --"
Calhoun put his hand back over her mouth and backed up farther into the room. Cinnamon didn't understand why until two more men with another writhing duffel bag walked past.
She waited for the sounds of their footsteps to fade before she pulled Calhoun's hand down once more and whispered, "Tell me those guys aren't carrying what I think they're carrying."
"What do you think they're carrying?" Again Calhoun spoke with his mouth close to her ear. His rumbling voice sent shivers up her spine whose cause she would contemplate when she wasn't in a potentially dangerous situation.
"A person trying to get out."
"Beauty and brains. Perceptive women like you are dangerous."

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1749

No Way Out Collection by Elayne S Venton

No Way Out (Collection)
by Elayne S. Venton

Cover art: Angela Knight
ISBN: 978-1-60521-682-9
Genre(s): Action Adventure/ Suspense, Sci-Fi, BDSM
Theme(s): Bisexual and More
Series: No Way Out
Length: Collection
Page Count: 201

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1745

Blurb
When a team of Earth scientists is stranded on the planet Alishon, they're attacked and separated from each other. Only three will survive...
No Way Home: Botanist Kelly Hatchett. Saved from the predators, claimed and detained by her rescuer, Rye. Now he refuses to let her go. Even though she submits to him, Kelly swears she will find a way home.
No Way Back: Trapped underground with an alien male, forced to rely on one another for survival, Jake Santos is drawn to Drum in ways he never imagined. He fights his desire because once he surrenders, there's no way back.
No Way Around It: Lead scientist Vonna King is captured and sold to a man with a wicked reputation. But there's more to Yale than his dark sexual preferences. Drawn in by the two facets of his personality, Vonna must face her own secret desires.
Excerpt
No Way Out (Collection)
Elayne S. Venton
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2011 Elayne S. Venton
Excerpt from No Way Home
This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.
"Carnivore!"
The scream reverberated inside Kelly Hatchett's earpiece and rattled down her spine. She dropped the vegetation samples she'd been collecting to take back to Earth and sprinted across the grassy plain toward the shuttle pod.
The faster she ran, the better her chances of survival. The four-legged behemoths that roamed this planet didn't move swiftly, but the pair of tentacles extending from their wide heads stretched vast distances. If one grabbed her...
Please, whatever deity there might be in the universe, don't let me die. There's so much more I want to do with my life -- find a special mate, earn a Distinguished Scientist rank, motherhood, a screaming orgasm!
Mentally, she smacked her head. When was the last time she'd had fun? She should've spent more time laughing with friends, and sought out more lovers. When her sister had invited her on an orgy cruise around Mars, she should've shaken off her unease and gone along. At least she would've been able to recall one audacious thing she'd done in her life.
The muscles in her legs burned as she pushed her body to the limit.
From the other side of the shuttle pod, two grayish-brown tentacles as thick as space-sail masts wrapped around the transport and tossed it sideways across the grassy moor. Kelly jerked to a halt, her heartbeat thundering in her chest. The other four scientists running in a semi-circle toward what they thought was safety looked as horrified as she felt. They all froze in place and watched their ride back to the orbiting cruiser explode in a fiery ball.
Shock immobilized her until the colossal beast trudged toward the two closest scientists. Armed with only short-range laser pistols, the team fired haphazardly at it, but the shots seemed to irritate rather than harm. The thick feelers flicked as if swatting a fly.
"Concentrate your shots!" the team leader shouted to the group, but Kelly turned with the others and bolted from the terrifying creature. The ground shook as the creature gained on them. One of its plodding steps equaled a twenty-yard dash for the team. Panic pushed her forward.
In her peripheral vision, Kelly watched tentacles coil around two of her screaming associates, pick them up and draw them backward toward massive snapping jaws. She slid her gaze away, unwilling to watch their fate. A loud crunch and the sudden quiet made her stomach churn.
The beast bellowed behind her, its long feelers whipping through the air searching for more prey. Her lungs expanded and contracted so fast she sucked up her auxiliary oxygen through her nose mask at an alarming rate. She stopped looking back over her shoulder. It didn't help.
She was going to die.
A loud whoosh streamed by overhead. What the hell was that? A resounding thud shook the ground so hard she stumbled. Holy stars! Was the cruiser firing down here? Before they'd left the ship, the captain had made it clear if they encountered hostiles, he wouldn't break the galaxy peace agreement to save a group of expendable scientists. She'd believed him. Besides, the trajectory had traveled horizontally.
Whatever it was, she didn't want to get hit by it. Running any faster seemed impossible but fear spurred her on, veering her toward a patch of shoulder-high grasses where she might hide. Long thin blades sliced her arms as she lunged through the tall brush.
A band of speckled brown flesh snaked around her ribs. Oh God. Oh God! "Heeeelp!" she screamed as her feet lifted off the ground.
Eyes scrunched tight, Kelly wasn't prepared for the sudden body slam to the ground. Pain shot down her spine all the way to her toes.
A heavy weight pressed down on her belly, holding her flat in a nest of crushed grass. She held her breath, waiting for sharp teeth to rip into her. And waited...
Unable to stand the suspense, she popped an eye open and slowly lifted her head.
The world around her blurred and tilted.
A male anthropoid wearing a loincloth sat on her stomach. Sunlight glinted off his skin, smooth and brown-speckled like polished granite, highlighting his ripped abs and muscular thighs. He looked surprisingly human, handsome in a rough sense. Long sable hair fell over wide shoulders, drawing her gaze to the patchwork of pale scars on his brawny chest. He was a fighter. A survivor.
Curiosity shone in his golden brown eyes as he regarded her.
She grunted and bucked against the big male holding her down. What was he doing? They had to run!
He lifted his heavy weight off her, but immediately resettled over her with his knees on either side of her hips, calm as can be.
It suddenly hit her that the ground had stopped trembling. A horrid stench filled the air. The creature --
He must have killed it.
Pent-up breath rushed from her lungs in a loud whoosh. She was safe! Amid her tremendous relief, she let out a joyful squeak and squeezed the stranger's impressive biceps. "Thank you!" She wanted to curl upward and give him a big hug, but the stern expression on his face stopped her.
"Shapitwa," the male said, pushing her back to the ground. His eyes looked hard, demanding. He glanced over his shoulder at a path tramped through the dense grassland. When he turned back, he put a finger to his lips and made motions telling her to lie still. "Shapitwa," he breathed softly.
The warrior tilted his head, listening. Kelly strained to hear footsteps, snarls, whispers, anything that might indicate danger, but all she heard was the wind sifting through the grass. She watched the alien relax his broad shoulders. The gleam in his eyes made him look downright smug.
Well, killing a ferocious beast ten times your size must make one proud.
He rambled in his native language, his tone full of himself. Great. Why was she always attracted to the good-looking, arrogant types?
She shook her head and reached for the translator module strapped to her belt.
He grabbed her wrists and slowly drew her arms over her head. Bending over her, brushing her breasts with his chest, he whispered again, "Shapitwa."

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1745

Wolf Mates Collection by Dakota Cassidy

Wolf Mates (Collection)
by Dakota Cassidy

Cover art: Sahara Kelly
ISBN: 978-1-60521-686-7
Genre(s): Paranormal, Action Adventure/ Suspense, Humor & Satire
Theme(s): Werewolves, Shapeshifters
Series: Wolf Mates
Length: Collection
Page Count: 347

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1747

Blurb

Derrick Adams is not happy. His pack of werewolves isn't like all the others...
Derrick's brother Max found his lifemate in the pound, he has a cousin who's a vegetarian, and Xavier Wolf comes from a pride, instead of a pack. Lassiter Adams isn't exactly what he seems, either. Neither is his parakeet!
Now Derrick has a lifemate of his own -- and she isn't barking. You'll laugh, you'll sigh, and you'll need a fan, because these stories are exceptionally hot!
This collection contains the previously released novellas An American Werewolf in Hoboken, What's New Pussycat?, Moon Over Manhasset, and Ruff & Ready. This collection is also available in print!
Excerpt
Wolf Mates (Collection)
Dakota Cassidy
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2011 Dakota Cassidy
Excerpt from What's New Pussycat?
This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.

"Meow."

"Do you see?" Derrick Adams hollered as he held up the cat carrier, thrusting it in his brother Max's face. A black paw, claws unleashed, reached out to swipe at Max's face. Max reached his finger into the carrier's front. "Hey, kitty..." he cooed, making an irritating clicking noise with his tongue.

The paw reached out again, unsheathing its claws once more, and the cat carrier hissed. Max jumped back as the cage rocked in Derrick's hands.

Tell me, foolish one, what makes humans believe that we kitties enjoy a finger shoved in our faces? Bring it here, boy-toy. Lemme show you what pretty teeth I have...

Mortals were so unbelievably stupid, especially male mortals. Even if they were good looking, Martine Brooks thought. She felt the hair on her back lift in irritation as the silly human tried again to soothe her with a finger that might result in a bloody stump if he didn't back off.

He stuck his handsome face in the opening of the cage and purred at her. Martine yawned.

If only you knew how desperately stupid you look. Max, is it?

However, in order to keep from blowing her cover, Martine had to play the game. She'd yet to figure out what she was undercover for, but whatever. She only knew she shouldn't shift and she sensed that, even if she didn't know the reasons why. It did, however, mean something was preventing her. Be it intuition or premonition, she just knew her best bet was to remain in her cat form. At least for now until she could figure out what in all of creation she was doing here. Martine prepared for a good howl, thus indicating that the pretty boys should go away and leave her the hell alone while she waited to be set free and get some wide open space to shift in.

This time she got closer to the cage opening and howled for all she was worth into Max's face. As pitifully as her vocal cords would allow, just like she'd seen other cats do on Animal Planet.

"Maybe you should take her to your place and let her out of the cage, Derrick?" the pretty dark-haired girl said as she winced.

Well, duh. Very astute. A good stretch was just what she needed. She'd suffered as much indignity as one girl could handle in a lifetime.

The man named Derrick shook her cage. "Be quiet, would you! God," he complained, "she could wake the dead. So, Max, what do you intend to do about this?"

Max shook his head and slapped Derrick on the back. "Nothin' I can do, Derrick. Your prophecy is your prophecy. You know Eva's chicken soup."

Yes, it was good for the soul, wasn't it? What prophecy? Martine wondered.

Derrick held up the cage again. She really wished he'd stop rocking the damn thing. A hairball was bound to hurl from her throat at warp speed if he kept this up.

"This -- this -- is my prophecy?" Martine heard Derrick yell, disbelief lacing his tone. "How in all of the animal kingdom can this be my prophecy?"

Max shrugged his shoulders and the pretty dark-haired woman spoke again. "I didn't believe it either, Derrick, but who can say when you'll find love -- or with whom?"

Love? Um, no, no.

What was this, Mutual of Omaha? No love. Martine needed to get the hell out of this damn cage and shift so she could get the frig away from these people and their wing-nut prophecies. She believed in spells and stuff. No prophecies.

"Well, Derrick," Max said. "Guess what? She's all yours. Eva hasn't been wrong so far. Now go away. I have pups to make." The dark-haired woman giggled, rather flirty and stupid if you asked Martine.

But NO ONE was asking the cat.

"My lifemate is not a Goddamn cat!"

Whoa... stop right there, hot stuff. Lifemate? Did these people dig into the catnip or what? She didn't have a lifemate. Martine belonged to a warlock and had for many years now, cursed to spend the rest of her life at his beck and call. Oh, Escobar was just gonna love this. She was Escobar's familiar and he wasn't going to be too pleased about this little turn of events.

"Wolves do not mate with cats!" Derrick roared and shook the cage again for emphasis. Martine's stomach lurched.

Wolves? Like woof-woof? Full moons and carnivores?

That was it. Martine couldn't stop the roll of her stomach. She heaved a long moment and then coughed, opening her mouth wide.

"And now, it's gonna puke," Derrick said sarcastically.

Ick. Martine gagged and finally relieved her throat of the ball lodged in it since this lunatic had stuffed her into this cage.

How's that for ya? A round hairball lay at her feet.

Whew, that was better.

Unattractive, but better.
http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1747

All I Want for Christmas by Shelby Morgen

Spotlight: All I Want for Christmas
by Shelby Morgen

Cover art: Bryan Keller
ISBN: 978-1-59596-084-9
Genre(s): Action Adventure/ Suspense, Guilty Pleasures (Contemporary)
Theme(s): Christmas, Seasonal Themes, Dark Desire
Series: C.H.A.S.E.
Length: Novel
Page Count: 95

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=84

Blurb:
The wrong place.

Candy Nelson has wandered into a nightmare -- a slave auction in Southeast Asia.

The wrong time.

Things like this don't happen -- not in the twenty-first century.

One wrong move could get her killed.

One woman. Alone. She isn't supposed to be here. She needs to get out. Now.

But from across the room, a man raises his head, and his eyes meet hers. And Candy knows she'll do whatever it takes to buy this stranger his freedom. Though setting him free is the farthest thought from her mind...

Publisher's Note: All I Want For Christmas is book one of the C.H.A.S.E. Series, available in collection as Plain Brown Wrapper (C.H.A.S.E. Collection) by Shelby Morgen.
Excerpt:
C.H.A.S.E. 1: All I Want For Christmas
Shelby Morgen
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2004 by Shelby Morgen

This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.



2:45 PM Friday, 17 December 2004
A dilapidated warehouse somewhere in Malaysia

The gavel hung in midair while the auctioneer waited. Nothing. At last the German turned away, his nostrils flaring in anger as he shook his head.

"Sold!" The gavel banged on the rickety wooden podium, echoing through the room. All other sound ceased. "To the lady in the white suit."

Candy finally remembered to breathe. The auction workers brought her purchase to her, and Candy handed over a stack of American dollars.

Now what?

She turned to face the incredible hunk standing before her.

Good Lord. What had she done?


1:15 PM Friday, 17 December 2004
Singapore Changi Airport

Candy ran for the cab pulling up in the loading area, but before she could flag the driver down, he was gone. "I hate Christmas!"

She dropped the handle of her rather unwieldy luggage cart. Predictably, it collapsed, raining suitcases across the sidewalk. She jammed the toe of her black leather pump into the nearest bag. Ouch. Shit. That was stupid.

Lord, she was tired. Airport security was so tight now it had taken her over an hour to get through customs.

She was going to be late.

Candy hated being late.

Goddamnit. She watched yet another taxi drive away. I shouldn't even be here. Any of the junior attorneys could have handled the job, but not even an all-expense-paid trip to Singapore could get anyone else to take an out-of-the-country assignment over the holidays.

Well, she would have been just as alone back in New York. No matter how you looked at it, the holidays sucked.

It wasn't just Christmas. Her birthday fell on December 25th. The worst part was her parents had wanted a Christmas baby. But now they were gone, and there was no one around who would even remember it was her birthday, let alone go out of their way to make the day special for her.

Time, as Richard would say, to move on.

Asshole.

The thought of Richard gave her enough energy to pick up her suitcases and search for a cab.

Funny how Richard and asshole just naturally went together.

She'd bet a hundred dollars it was Richard-the-asshole who'd screwed with her flight schedule. She should have landed last night, just before midnight. Instead she'd ended up on the later flight with a plane change at LAX. Twenty-nine nerve-wracking hours after taking off from BWI she was finally in Singapore. It wasn't even about the money, though he'd probably saved a grand on the tickets. No, it was about keeping her under his thumb.

Screw you, you sanctimonious bastard. I will not miss this auction, damn you.

A cab pulled up to disgorge a touristy looking couple overburdened with packages. "Taxi!" Candy screamed. Jerking hard on the handle of her luggage cart, she raced for the cab, waving madly at the driver. "Taxi!"

This driver actually came around to help her with her bags. Maybe her luck was changing. While the driver piled her luggage into the trunk, Candy poured herself into the back of the cab, ready to pass out. She'd dressed for winter in New York, not the warmth of Singapore. "The Mandarin Oriental, please."

"Shiok, lah?"

He didn't speak English? Well, that was just great. Lah she was pretty sure meant yes in Malay, but shiok she didn't have a clue about. She held out her confirmation email and pointed to the address.

"Lah," the driver agreed. At least she hoped he was agreeing to take her to the hotel. He wasn't her idea of a hot date. Once he got started, he chattered non-stop, waving his hand at various buildings as they wound their way across town. Blah, blah, blah, blah…

Candy closed her eyes and drew in a deep breath. The light breeze brought the smell of the ocean in with it. The Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, sat right on the bay. She'd have breakfast tomorrow on her balcony, overlooking the Keppel Harbour, in an opulent and exclusive hotel, newly remodeled.

The Mandarin Oriental was one of the few luxuries she permitted herself. After all, it was... appropriate. It fit the corporate image. The concierge knew her by name. There would be stationery in the drawer with her name printed on it. Room service would have a double espresso sent up precisely at 7:00 AM, with the New York Times, delivered in English.

All that luxury came with a price, and Richard-the-asshole was picking up the tab. She reminded herself to order room service more often. Would serve him right if she'd brought along an "assistant" and charged the entire trip for two off to her expense account.

She would have, too, if she had an assistant. But that was his department. Bastard.

The driver pulled to a stop in front of the Mandarin Oriental. Candy gave him a twenty-dollar tip to wait while she checked in. She'd put that on her expense account too. It was Richard's fault she was late.

This was her time now. Visions of crisp silk and aging bisque brought a smile to her lips. She didn't bother to follow her bags up to the suite. They'd be unpacked by the time she returned. If the driver hauled ass and it wasn't too far away she could still make the most important part of the auction -- a dozen late 1800's vintage Bru Bebes, all from the same collection, all pristine, with their original boxes. Too bad she couldn't afford all of them, but even she didn't have that kind of money. At least not on her, in cash. Unless they went very, very reasonably, she'd be doing well to manage one...

The cabdriver shook his head adamantly when she showed him the Web page she'd printed out. "Sotong! No woman! No go! Terok! Ulu, kayu, lah?"

No woman? What the hell did that mean? The auction had started over twenty minutes ago. She didn't have time for this. She waved the printouts at him. "Auction," she explained. She pointed to the picture of a little girl holding an antique china doll. "Auction. Antique auction. This address."

The man shook his head. "No go. Terok, ulu. No woman. No go."

Sweat trickled down her shoulders in an irritating and unbecoming fashion. Candy searched her phrase book impatiently. "Auction," she attempted in Malay. Assuming he spoke Malay. "Where I come from women go to auctions all the time. Alone." She tapped the face of her watch. "I'm late." She held out two more Singapore twenties.

Finally the man snatched the money from her hands, still muttering in a curious mix of Malaysian and broken English as he turned the key in the ignition. Candy smiled smugly as the cab lurched forward with a cough and a sputter.

After all, it was Brasden-Marten's expense account. She was here on company business. The American fifties stowed in her purse were her own, to be spent however she wished, and he couldn't say a thing. Not any more. Her "ridiculous hobby" was an asset he despised too much to even bother to get appraised.

Moron.

She tried to focus on the joy of the hunt, the impending victory. Maybe if she closed her eyes, just for a moment while the cab took her across town… Maybe a tiny, short little power nap and she'd regain her equilibrium. Maybe...

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=84

Cirque Caprice: Ringmaster by Julia Talbot

Cirque Caprice: Ringmaster
by Julia Talbot

Cover art: Marteeka Karland
ISBN: 978-1-60521-710-9
Genre(s): Paranormal, Action Adventure/ Suspense, Dark Fantasy
Theme(s): Gay and Lesbian
Series: Cirque Caprice
Length: Novella

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1721

Blurb:

Amadeo may be the most charismatic ringmaster Cirque Caprice has ever seen, but security head Jon doesn't trust him. Jon knows too many of Amadeo's secrets. Amadeo knows he's changed, but he has no idea he has to prove it to Jon until it may be too late. Can Amadeo show Jon that a leopard can change its spots?

Excerpt:

Cirque Caprice: Ringmaster
Julia Talbot
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2011 Julia Talbot

This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.


"No. No, I don't think his background check was as clean as you..." Jon trailed off, listening to Jake, the head security man for the corporation. In other words, his boss. He paced, the confines of his makeshift office seeming far too small. "No, it's just dodgy, is all. Nothing I can actually use. Sure. I'll keep an eye on him."
The hair rose on the back of his neck, and Jon turned to see Amadeo Perralo standing behind him. He held up a finger, trying to ignore the heat crawling up the back of his neck from being caught talking about the guy, and from how hot the man looked today.
"Okay. Yeah. No, I'm sure you're right. Bye." Jon hit the end button on his phone. "Can I help you?"
Amadeo sure tried to stare him down, strong jaw set, almost black eyes full of fire. "I certainly hope so. Why won't you sign off on the stage design?"
"It's not safe." While Jon did have reservations about the safety of the design, his main problem was Amadeo. The man posed far too much of a security risk. When someone ran away to join the circus, Jake might be not be too concerned with background checks, but Jon disagreed. A ringmaster had access to every part of the show. Amadeo should have check out more or less clean, but Jon knew things about the man that no one else seemed to care about. Jon didn't like secrets. No matter how attractive the package they came wrapped in.
"It's perfectly safe. This isn't the days of the old elephant and bear circus, my dear."
The patronizing tone made Jon grit his teeth. "Maybe not, but there are pyrotechnics and there's all sorts of equipment and shit. Those side-wing stairs..."
"Provide us with audience participation. You must leave them in."
"I must do what my boss tells me to do, and you are not him."
"He."
"That's pedantic bullshit."
Amadeo raised one jet-black brow. "I'm amazed you know the word."
"Oh, fuck you. You don't know squat about me." That did it; he was getting a hold of Jake again and telling him they weren't ready to run through their final dress rehearsal. He'd make a recommendation on Amadeo and then ask for a raise or a transfer. They didn't pay him enough for this constant aggravation. Amadeo was absolutely infuriating, from his complete resistance to paperwork to his penchant for hiring performers without consulting Jon first.
"Mmm. No. I'd do you, though."
Jon whirled to face Amadeo, his hands clenched into fists. "I swear to God, I am going to beat you to death."
"You're welcome to try." The evil gleam in Amadeo's eyes and the taunting grin on those pretty lips made Jon snap.
Jon actually took a swing at the man, a wild haymaker that was completely out of character for him, and completely at odds with his training. The blow connected, but not with Amadeo's face. Instead, his fist slapped against Amadeo's palm.
"Temper, temper," Amadeo murmured. "Very sexy."
"You -- I..." Jon was going to explode. He didn't trust this man, didn't like him, and he hated to admit it, but right now he wanted Amadeo sexually in the worst way.
"You and I, indeed. A very nice picture."
"Okay, I've had it. I am going to beat you until you can't see."
Amadeo kept the tight grip on Jon's hand, using it to draw him close enough that their chests touched. "Go ahead. Of course that's assault and will get you fired, but if you find it worthwhile..."
Jon's other hand moved before he even thought about it, flying in an arc toward Amadeo's face. He missed, which should have been impossible at that range, but it was almost like his hand had been deflected. Fucking bastard and his freaky "talent."
"I can think of so many uses for your hands, my dear. This is not one of them."
"You fucking -- mmph." Jon had no idea what he would have said, given the chance. Amadeo shoved the words right back down his throat, kissing him so hard he saw stars. His lips pressed back against his teeth, and Jon's eyes opened so wide with surprise that he could see every individual lash around Amadeo's eyes, could see the smooth texture of the man's skin, broken on his cheeks by dark stubble. Then he closed his eyes and let Amadeo have his mouth, opening up for the exploration. If he had been into purple prose he would call it a plundering.
He got his hands free, but instead of pushing Amadeo away, Jon clutched at the man's wide shoulders, his legs spreading so he could brace himself. His cock hardened, so fast it left him breathless and aching, his chest heaving with the need for air. The kiss eased just enough for him to gasp a few times, gulping in oxygen. Then Amadeo took his lips again, giving him no time to think. Thinking might be bad in a situation like this.
When they finally broke to breathe again, Amadeo reached down between them and squeezed Jon's cock through his black cargo pants. "Mmm. I knew you would be hot and hard. You taste like coffee and honey."
"Thanks for the color commentary." Christ, he'd lost his mind. Jon tried to get his hands to let go of Amadeo's shoulders, but it just wasn't happening. Traitor muscles.
"Are you the sort of man who doesn't like to talk during sex?" His cock got a nice hard squeeze. "I'm a talker, I'm afraid."
"I'm not having sex with you."
Amadeo pushed him back against the big desk he'd had brought in, the one luxury in his otherwise extremely mobile office. Folders, papers and what was possibly a stapler dug into Jon's back. "Oh, I disagree. In fact, I think we need to get started now."
"I don't think --"
Amadeo loomed over him, pressing down on his wrists, which were suddenly held captive in Amadeo's capable hands. "Don't think."

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1721

Bunny Tails 5: Hare-Raising Finale by Camille Anthony

Bunny Tails 5: Hare-Raising Finale

by Camille Anthony

Cover art: Reneé George
ISBN: 978-1-90521-706-2
Genre(s): Paranormal, Action Adventure/ Suspense, BDSM
Theme(s): Ménage, Werewolves, BBW
Series: Bunny Tails
Length: Novella
Page Count: 92

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1719

Blurb:

Vance is in the doghouse with Ouida. He's made a mistake that might cost him the love of his life. Just when he thinks things can't get any worse, an old enemy shows up, injuring his friend and his former Lieutenant Xen, and kidnapping their mate.
Vance has shown mercy before, but now it's time to bring the curtain down on this saga of vengeance. No matter what it takes, Vance is going to convince Xen to forgive him, get their mate back, and teach his enemy once and for all, it's a fatal mistake to mess with this Alpha's family.
Patrick Smith will soon learn werewolves have no enemies... because they eat them.

Excerpt:

Bunny Tails 5: Hare-Raising Finale
Camille Anthony
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2011 Camille Anthony

This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.


"Xen, we need to talk. Privately, please."
The black wolf turned to face me, ears perked forward, questioning glance sharp. I knew the tone of my voice gave me away. Without a word, he shook himself, shifted to Skin guise and pulled on some clothes, and slipped on shoes. With a quiet yip to alert Brax and Usher, who were watching a movie on low, so as not to disturb a sleeping Chase, we left the apartment.
"What's up?" We'd barely cleared the walkway leading to the complex's enclosed garden area before he'd launched into his questioning. "There's not much we couldn't share with Brax and Usher, but it's not them so much as Chase might overhear. I figure it has to be personal, and that means something to do with Ouida."
I sighed, dreading his reaction, but I had to set things right with him. The only way to do that was to just come clean. "One of the pups Ouida is carrying is yours. Somehow, you managed to bond with her even though she'd already bonded with me."
Xen froze in place. The astounded look on his face would have been comical if this situation hadn't been so serious. At his side, his hands bunched into fists. The tension radiating throughout his body was evident by the bristling fur at his ruff, only partially hidden by his shirt collar. His voice came out more like a growl. "What are you saying?"
"You've felt it all along. The connection between the two of you is too strong to ignore. That's why you sent her a phone to stay in touch, knowing it was against our laws. And it's why she refused to give that phone up, even when I demanded it of her point blank. It's why you haven't been able to take another female all this time. You get blue balls whenever you think of her, but the minute you try to fuck someone who's not Ouida, you go limp as a noodle."
Xen started shaking. "How can you know that? Have you had Brax and Usher reporting on me?"
I shook my head. "Nothing so convoluted. I know because I'm the same. No other female interests me. Even when I wasn't fucking her while she healed, I couldn't even think of another, of easing my needs with someone not Ouida, without losing whatever erection I had."
Xen looked away. "I've tried to get her out of my head. I swear I've fought my desire for her, knowing how dishonorable it is." He turned back, met my eyes. "Your friendship means the world to me. I know there's no way we could ever be friends if I tried again to take her from you, and if I was inclined to try, Ouida's made her choice clear in that matter. So why are you telling me this now?" His brows drew together in a frown. "Come to think of it, why are you only just now getting around to telling me this?"
"Because I've only just become aware of it. No." I stopped, refusing to continue wallowing in the lie. "That's not wholly true. I've known for some while that one of the pups was yours. How could I not? I was prepared to raise it as mine."
"And you didn't think I had the right to know a child of my lineage had been created?"
I pinched the bridge of my nose, trying to stave off a headache. "Xen, I acknowledge I was wrong in my actions. I've made more mistakes than I can count, so can we save the recriminations for later? Let me just get through this as quickly as possible."
"Talk."
He strode away from me, causing me to lengthen my stride to keep up. I grabbed his arm, forcing him to face me once more. "Damn it, Xen, do you think this is easy? Ouida is my mate. She is bearing my pup. Yet when we last communicated mind-to-mind, I saw the bond she shares with you, shining as bright as the one stretching between her and I."
Xen's eyes were bright with tears, his face wet where they trailed over the sharp blade of his cheekbone. "I've felt her, here." He thumped his chest, continuing to speak through his tears. "Every single day since I parted from her, I've suffered a constant ache because I couldn't be with her. I'd see something beautiful and turn to share it with her, and she wouldn't be there." He drew in a deep breath as he turned away, hiding his face if not his emotions. "I hate you, Vance."
I didn't blame him. I also didn't believe him. We had too much shared history between us. We had Ouida between us. "You're going to have a problem living with me if that's true."
He spun back around, expressions chasing one after another across his face, hope the uppermost. "Living with you?"
"I've spoken with Ouida. She's willing to accept both of us as equal mates, if you and I can come to an agreement about it."
Xen looked skeptical. "It's a common practice during the Fertility Festival, but to share a mate when the festival is over? It's never been done."
"We don't know that. All we know is this pack's tradition, and we've both learned recently that our pack does not make up the whole of our people." I stepped into Xen's personal space, grabbed his forearms. "If we're willing to do this, willing to make this arrangement work, then no one has the right to dictate how we choose to live." I smiled. It was a baring of teeth the other wolf recognized for what it was: a challenge. "Since when have we followed? We've always led. Why change now?"
"Are you really willing to do this, Vance? You're okay with sharing Ouida with me?"
He doubted my sincerity and I didn't blame him. "At first, I confess I felt some resentment, but no longer."
"What changed your mind?"

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1719

Immortal Steps by Kira Stone

Immortal Steps
by Kira Stone

Cover art: Reneé George
ISBN: 978-1-60521-729-1
Genre(s): Paranormal, Action Adventure/ Suspense
Theme(s): Vampires, Gay and Lesbian
Length: Novella
Page Count: 78
http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1717

Blurb:

In the modern age, Vampirism is a newly identified medical condition, but Kyle's old school. He is trained to protect the unturned from the greedy Hunters who would sell them on the black market -- one piece at a time.
Tain, a renowned celtic dancer, has bitter memories of his first crush -- the trainer who left him without a word. For years he's flung himself from one brief romantic encounter to another, the subject of tabloid gossip and speculation, always insisting he's not gay. When Kyle, Tain's old mentor, comes back into Tain's life, the last thing Tain wants is to give the man, or the vampire, a place in his heart.
Kyle vows to keep Tain safe, even if he has to do it from a distance. He's got to regain his protégé's trust if they're both going to stay alive. That is, if Tain's emerging vampiric powers don't kill them both first.
Excerpt:
Immortal Steps
Kira Stone
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2011 Kira Stone

This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.


Alone, Kyle Lohan entered his private balcony at the Grampian Theater in Edinburgh, Scotland. As he sat down, the house lights dimmed briefly to signal a two minute warning before the show began. The box smelled faintly of sex, although he doubted anyone without a vampire's heightened senses could detect the erotic scent. Regardless, it was his own fault for sneaking in to watch rehearsals the previous evening. He'd been unable to resist tugging his cock in time with the heavy beat of the dancers as they practiced.
Okay, not all the performers excited him. Just one.
Tain O'Halloran.
Tonight Kyle had better prepared for the public performance, or so he'd thought. The quick release during his shower should have calmed his libido enough to sit through the performance without a hard-on. But as the first strains of a flute solo poured across the stage, the anticipation proved to be more than his body could resist and his cock rose to an aching fullness.
Tain. On stage. His stage.
How long had he waited for this? Worked for this? Dreamed of this? Sometimes it seemed like forever. And yet, very soon, the moment he'd been preparing for would arrive. One way or another, he would finally end his long pursuit.
He adjusted the fit of his tuxedo pants as the chorus sprinted across the stage. Their shoes hit the wooden floor in rhythmic, staccato beats, flirting with the notes. Kyle couldn't stop his own feet from scuffing against the floor in a pale imitation of the dancers' fancy footwork. Had his heart been prone to beat, it would have been racing as fast as the music.
A few more seconds...
Then, appearing out of a flash of light and smoke, bam! There he was. Tain O'Halloran. The male lead's long, sleek black hair floated behind him as he bounced in perfect synchronization with the little blond at his side. His grey eyes flashed with pure joy and a little arrogance. A smile curved his thin pink lips. And what that black leather did for his ass...
Kyle groaned softly as his cock twitched with longing, but he refused to slake his lust. Privacy wasn't an issue, even during a public performance. No, nothing mattered more than soaking up every moment of this night to tuck away in his memories. If the evening didn't go as planned, this could be all he had left to remember the talented young man come morning.
The first dance ended, and Kyle felt the tightness in his chest ease as Tain exited stage right. He'd reappear several times throughout the performance.
Kyle itched with anticipation for the next time, and the next... and the next... By the second act, Kyle could pick out Tain's unique sweat from the morass of odors permeating the air. The scent teased his cock like nothing else. His whole body tensed as he imagined jumping over the balcony's rail to land on top of the dancer's young bones, then fucking him to within an inch of his life, claiming him on stage for all the world to see.
Well, that's one way to announce that you're back in his life, Kyle thought with a rueful shake of his head. Definitely not one of your brightest ideas though.
If anything, such a bold, stupid move would get him thrown out of Tain's life for good. Kyle's goal was quite the opposite. If he had his way, nothing would separate him from Tain ever again.
The show ended with a roar of applause that pulled the dancers back on stage for a second encore. Vibrant and smiling under the lights, Tain looked like he could hold out for a third reprise if the director let him. However, the rest of the troupe wasn't fairing as well, so when the curtains closed again the house lights came up.
The show was over, but Kyle's performance of a lifetime was about to begin.
http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1717

Hellhound Detective Agency: Relentless by BJ McCall

Cover

Hellhound Detective Agency: Relentless
by B.J. McCall

Cover art: Bryan Keller
ISBN: 978-1-60521-708-6
Genre(s): Paranormal, Action Adventure/ Suspense
Theme(s): Shapeshifters
Series: Hellhound Detective Agency
Length: Novella
Page Count: 44

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1712

Blurb:

Hellhound Haydn North is hired by Ridax Pharmaceuticals to track down stolen vials of its new heart drug which has an unexpected side effect. Stolen by a lab tech, the aphrodisiac is now on the streets being sold under the name of Raptus.
Private procurer Kartinka Kruse is hired by a wealthy client to acquire the vials of Raptus only to find Haydn is on the case. This isn't the first time she and the Hellhound have crossed paths.
Haydn has been romancing Kartinka for months and his relentless pursuit is wearing her down a kiss at a time, but alpha male Hellhounds like to lead and Kartinka doesn't like to follow. Haydn's hunt for his alpha mate is over. All he has to do is convince Kartinka she's his perfect mate.

Excerpt:

Hellhound Detective Agency: Relentless
B.J. McCall
All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2011 B.J. McCall

This e-book file contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language which some may find offensive and which is not appropriate for a young audience. Changeling Press E-Books are for sale to adults, only, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.


Kartinka slid the key into the lock. Having the Hellhounds after the Raptus made her job more difficult. Once they got onto a scent Hellhounds were relentless.
An unexpected rush of cool air, blaring car horns and wailing sirens alerted her. She'd secured the balcony doors of her apartment before leaving to meet Masters.
Kartinka pulled her handgun out of her purse and chambered a round before stepping inside. Her gaze swept her living room, the kitchen and dining area, then focused on the open balcony doors. Her heart leapt into her throat. A man stood in the shadows, his tall frame outlined by the lighted city skyline beyond.
Her footsteps silenced by the thick carpet, Kartinka crossed the room.
The intruder was dressed in a long-sleeved white shirt and dark pants. The width of his shoulders and the long, black hair hanging halfway down his back was a dead giveaway. Only one thing would bring her most fierce competitor, the only man capable of turning her heart inside out, into her home tonight. Haydn North was after the vials of Raptus. It wasn't the first time they'd both pursued the same prize.
He turned and leaned against the solid wall of the balcony. "Tinka." Whenever he called her Tinka, she felt vulnerable and wanting, a woman needing the solace of a man's arms, instead of Kartinka Kruse, acquirer extraordinaire.
"Haydn."
He stared down the barrel of her weapon. "Aren't you glad to see me?"
Even though she deliberately kept her business and travel plans private, Haydn had a habit of showing up in the same city. She'd accepted his invitations to dinner and joined him for moonlight strolls. He'd pick her up at her hotel room, flowers and gifts in hand.
Kartinka was attracted to his looks and rugged masculinity, but he was a Hellhound. Alpha males like to lead, and Kartinka wasn't a great follower. Hellhounds demanded loyalty, and she'd been on her own far too long.
So far she'd resisted his seductive overtures, but the man was wearing her down a kiss and a present at a time. This was the first time he'd shown up at her apartment.
Kartinka lowered her weapon. "What are you doing here?"
"I missed you, Tinka."
Rich and compelling, his voice enticed her. She stepped onto the balcony. "How did you get in?"
"You should rethink your choice of locks."
"You picked the lock. Perhaps you should have waited for an invitation."
"Perhaps. Hellhounds by nature are more persistent than patient."
She'd ignored him and rebuffed him, but his relentless pursuit of her had intrigued Kartinka.
"I've been thinking about you," he said. "About us."
"What about us?"
"You're mine, Tinka."
A frisson of pure heat slid through her.
His gaze, burning and intense, slid over her, from head to toe and back again. "You look amazing."
To blend in with the hotel's upscale clientele, Kartinka had chosen a fashionable jacket, form-fitting skirt and heels for her meeting with Masters. She'd left Masters and visited Lester Potts' studio apartment. The place had been trashed, and there was no sign of the lab tech. She'd stopped by a few clubs. Bartenders and bouncers knew their clientele -- who was selling and who was buying product. Kartinka had shown Lester's photo around. Nobody recognized him.
Everybody wanted Raptus, but no one had a source for the product that had hit the scene like a tsunami, then disappeared.
"Your timing is questionable, Haydn."
"You're after the Raptus," he said, pushing off the railing.
"Not the first time we've had a conflict of interest."
"True, but we can resolve that problem in the morning. I want you, Tinka, and I refuse to wait another second to have you."
Bless the stars!
Her brain told her to throw him out and ignore his overtures until she obtained the vials, but his alpha male confidence made her cream. She craved him like a powerful drug.
For months, Kartinka had suffered from the raw need he evoked. Just being in the same room with him made her senses spark. Why did he have to show up tonight of all nights to tempt her when Masters had offered her such a lucrative deal?
"You knew our time would come," he said.
She wanted him. She feared she loved him, but her mind swirled with doubts. Was his arrival tonight merely a distraction while another Hellhound ran Lester Potts to ground?
"This isn't a good idea," she said.
"You're wrong," he said, stepping toward her.
"Not tonight."
He cupped her face in his hands. "We are a very good idea. Be my partner, Tinka."
"I've accepted the assignment."
He lowered his head. "Kiss me, Tinka."
His lips covered hers, demanding and hungry. Kartinka answered in kind. Each time Haydn kissed her, her feelings for him swelled, erupting in a million tiny explosions she couldn't explain or deny.
Her skin heated, burning in the cool night air. Her heart rate increased, and her heart thumped in excitement. The noise of the city, the blaring horns and sirens, was hushed by the sound of her blood roaring in her ears. He wrapped his arms around her, held her tight and deepened the kiss.
Her senses reeled, doubt fading and resistance ebbing. She wrapped her arms around his neck and, with the flick of her thumb, set the safety on her weapon. Seeking his heat and his strength, Kartinka pressed her body to his, molding her breasts to his chest, her pelvis to his.
Need coiled, tight and hot, deep in her belly.
His hand slid down her back, over her hip to her ass. He squeezed and kneaded.
She rolled her hips, pushing her pelvis against his, rubbing her mons to the firm ridge of his erection.
A groan tearing from his throat, he fisted her hair and pulled her head back. His eyes glittered. "Tonight is the night."
Fire flashed through Kartinka, heating her blood to a boil. She responded to Haydn's strength, his alpha male allure. She'd seen him in action when a bunch of young thugs were beating the crap out of a skinny kid in an alley. Muscles bunched and fists flying, Haydn had dealt with the bullies. Busted lip and blood all over his shirt, he'd never looked sexier. But when he'd taken the kid to the emergency room, signed to cover the medical expenses and waited for hours because the kid's mother couldn't be located until after all the nightclubs closed, Kartinka had fallen for him.
They'd said goodbye at sunrise, and she hadn't seen him in twenty-six days. Not that she was counting. Damn him for showing up tonight...

http://changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1712