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As many of you may know, our beloved sister hostess SHARON DONOVAN, tragically passed away on 11th April 2012. We who knew her, loved her, and were inspired by her courage and determination to face head on whatever life threw at her. When she could no longer see to paint she turned to writing and showed her amazing talent in the Inspirational Romance and Romantic Suspense genres, and her story 'Charade Of Hearts' was awarded the coveted Predators and Editors Award in January 2011.

This Blog was a source of great delight to her, she was one of the founder hostesses and she contributed to the fun and silliness in her own original way, and was kind enough to let her unique creation, the hunky butler 'Oliver' join us for our Friday romp and prepare 'virtual breakfast' for the guests on the following morning. It's beyond hard to have to go on without her, but we know that she would have been the first to insist that 'the show must go on.' She is, and will always be with us in spirit.
Sharon, dear friend, we will never forget you.
The Author Roast and Toast is part of the legacy you left us. Let's raise a Toast to you as well as all our guests.
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Friday, May 2, 2014

Diane Escalera's Giveaway and celebration of the 2nd Book in her Latin Heat Trilogy


Disclaimer:The hostesses of the Author Roast and Toast are in bikinis!

Now in some cases this could be a nightmare, but for the purposes of the roast we are all hot and young.

 "I must say there's nothing like a Pina Colada on the beach. Cabana boys should be standard in every state." Mary's eyes rove the masses, looking for movie stars, or even beach boy eye candy.

"Palm Beach has such a terrific jetty to snorkel along." Mary hands snorkels and masks to her cohorts.

"These must be for Lyn, "AJ snickers, looking at the outsize flippers, and clutching her precious phone in its waterproof cover. "At least Mary is wearing the right size top to hold those babies."

Melissa grins and struts to the water, swim fins flopping the whole way. "Lilly, it's warm and those tiny waves will not hurt you." Mac splashes Lilly as she cringes.

With a heave ho, Mary shoves Lilly into the water. "The best way to go in is all at once." Mary grins. Lilly spits water and growls, "Just you wait." She threatens Mary.


Lyn, always the diplomat flops her huge feet into the water. "I'll help you. Last one in is a rotten egg." She runs into the aqua waters, narrowly avoiding a sting ray.


"Isn't that our author, Diane Escalera out there on that fancy cabin cruiser?" Melissa wonders. "She's diving in to meet us halfway!  Wonder what the party food is going to be?"










"Baked ham with pineapple, shrimp cocktail, grilled chicken on skewers,
conch fritters, tropical fruit kababs, a fruit bowl with pineapple, kiwi, mango, melon, just to name a few of the foods. Pina Colada, rum & coke, cold beer, iced tea, and rum punch to drink. Flan, coconut cream pie, cookies with macadamia nuts, and the all popular key lime pie. I'm drooling." Mary grins.

Mary swims so fast the others can't keep up with her.


 "First one there gets a copy of The Right  Temptation, Diane's latest release." Melissa yells as she speeds like a tornado through the water.


"Ha, first one there gets to flirt with the best guys on that huge cruiser." Lyn whips to the finish well ahead of the others.

"Someone is gonna have to get Lilly." AJ chuckles. "

"A dingy would do, she ain't gonna want to swim that far." Mac sighs.

And heard from the beach Lilly screams and yells, luckily no one can make out what she's saying. Ah, yes, just another Author Roast and Toast!


Please welcome Diane Escalera and 'The Right Temptation'

The Right Temptation

Can a childhood crush mature into the real thing?

Kayla Martinez has recently landed an RN position at a prestigious hospital in her hometown. The new job is everything she’s hoped for, especially when one hot specimen shows up in the ER. She hasn’t seen her childhood crush in years, and considering how much hotter he’s gotten over time, she almost ends up needing resuscitation.

The last thing Nico LaCosta needs is a broken arm. Now his pal’s kid sister wants to soothe his pain, but he’d rather keep his distance so her big brother doesn’t break his other arm. Kayla’s no child anymore, though. She’s one hot-blooded woman, determined to remind him of a mind-blowing kiss back when they were teenagers. Leave it to Kayla to drop by his house unannounced and play Nurse Seductive. A guy has to follow the buddy code, or face the consequences. Still, sometimes giving in to temptation is worth it…


The Right Temptation
Latin Heat Trilogy, Story Two

Excerpt

Kayla ambled to the kitchen. She opened the refrigerator and perused it. Not bad. He had a few things she could work with. “What do you normally eat?”

“Grilled chicken, brown rice and broccoli,” he said without missing a beat.

Kayla laughed at his bland regimen. “I had a feeling.”

“Well, I try to take care of my body.”

“So I see.” Her gaze skittered over his physique. Whatever he did worked magically delicious.

“Although lately, I’ve been pigging out like a fat kid,” he said, with a disgusted look. “That’s what happens when you’re bored to death.”

She had a cure for his restlessness. The thought made her thighs go up in flames. Kayla shoved her head inside the cool refrigerator and peered into several plastic containers. “Some of this looks good.” She could’ve taken the easy way out, but she preferred to make something fresh, show off a little bit.
“It is. But I had so much of it already.” He puffed out his cheeks.

How adorable. She found everything he did entertaining. Kayla shut the fridge and, without asking, opened the cupboards. She found one with canned goods and food staples. “Hmm,” she mumbled, scanning the contents. She’d have to improvise. “You like omelets?”

Nico’s face lit up. “I love me some eggs.”

“Cool. I’ll whip up some veggie omelets.”

“You don’t have to cook for me, you know.”

She had a weakness for nursing people back to health. She had a weakness for one man named Nico. The combination of the two pulled on her heartstrings. “I want to,” she said, setting aside her personal agenda.
“Don’t you have something better to do than hang out with an invalid? I’m not a barrel of laughs right now.”
Good time to gauge his interest. She locked eyes on him. “Why? You want me to leave?”
“It’s not that,” he said. Nico strode to the kitchen. He took one of her long curls and tugged on it. “I just don’t want you to waste your free time.”

She wanted to close her eyes, bottle his woodsy scent. Kayla palmed his solid chest. The touch sent a shocking bolt through her already-charged system. She kept her hand there, reveling in the feel of his potent masculinity. “Who says I’m wasting my time?”

Nico closed the space between them. Too bad his bulky cast kept their bodies from totally connecting. Several inches taller, he stared down at her with pure intensity. The heat level shot up so fast she thought they’d set off the smoke alarm in the kitchen. Kayla titled her head back and shook her wild curls off her face. He helped by sliding a few fingers into her hair. Her heart practically jumped out of her chest. Kiss me. She’d waited years for this.

His body trapped her against the counter. Kayla shifted her position so she could feel the full force of his strength without the barrier of his injured arm. Oh God. He had an erection. Her hip acted alone and pressed up against it. She swore she heard him moan. Wait. That was her.

“Kayla,” he muttered, in a voice huskier than before.

Kiss me. She tried to send a telepathic message.


Author Bio
Diane Escalera

Born and raised in the Bronx, NY, Diane Escalera makes her home in coastal North Carolina.  The sultry surroundings are a steady source of inspiration for her hot love stories.  Diane is married, has two children and a super cute dachshund she can’t get enough of.  She writes contemporary romance and is published with Kensington Publishing and Lyrical Press.


CONTENT WARNING: Racy Language, Hot Sex, Lusty Latin Lovers


***GIVEAWAY***
To win a download of Diane's book, all you have to do is just leave a comment and your e-mail address.
Contest ends on Sunday and everyone who comments is eligible.
(We reserve the right to waive the prize in any week when there are not enough contestants for a draw to be deemed fair and unbiased)

40 comments:

  1. Welcome to the party Diane - and thanks for choosing such a nice warm location for us!

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  2. Hello, hello! I'm delighted to be here today. Thank you so much for joining me. I know everyone is happy. It's Friday! Isn't that enough of a reason to celebrate? The ladies did an amazing job. I feel like I'm on vacation, and yes, I'm wearing my bikini too! Ohhh Oliver, bring on the fruity cocktails!

    First, a little about me. Unlike most authors, I didn’t know I was destined to write. In fact, I worked in banking for many years, but deep down knew that it wasn’t my dream job. At the young age of thirty-five, my sister died of an illness. I realized the same thing could happen to me. There are no guarantees. I couldn’t waste another moment doing something I didn’t love. Writing was one of my greatest joys when I was growing up. While still working at the bank, I decided to enroll in an intensive course where I learned everything I could about the craft. It didn’t take long before I left the bank to pursue a writing career.

    I write hot contemporary romance and I'm published with Kensington and Lyrical Press. A few months ago, I decided to try my hand at self-publishing. I'm loving the freedom. But I won't lie. There are so many more tasks to worry about.

    So, let's talk hunky men! I just completed the third story of a Latin Heat Trilogy. Two brothers and a cousin, the LaCosta men can charm the panties off any woman. And they do! Set in sultry South Florida, these passionate heroes will make you fall in love.

    Kick back, relax, and feel free to ask me anything. Don't forget to leave a comment for a chance to win an eBook of The Right Temptation. Also, be on the lookout for Playing With Destiny (Latin Heat Trilogy #3) coming June 1st.

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for doing this, Diane! As an aspiring romance novelist, can you give me any advice?

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  3. Thanks for your question! People think the life of an author is glamorous. But it's a lot of hard work. So the first thing I would say is to make sure writing is something that you truly love. Learn as much as you can about the business. Join Romance Writers of America (if you haven't already). They provide a wealth of resources. Read the work of authors who write the type of stories you want to write. And always stay true to yourself. I'll share my favorite quote: "There are two weapons in the writer's arsenal. The first is stamina. And the second is uncompromising belief in yourself."

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  4. Your characters are the hottest!! I can't wait to read Playing With Destiny. The series has been a fun one to read so far :)

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  5. Thank you so much! I've really enjoyed writing this trilogy. You don't see many Latin lovers in contemporary romances. Thought I'd fill the void. :)

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  6. Good morning, Ladies!

    Ack, I see I've forgotten everything I learned in scuba diving class about putting on your fins AFTER you enter the water. :D

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  7. Hi Melissa! What do you say we just hang out on the boat, indulge in food and drinks, and stare at shirtless men!

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    Replies
    1. Diane, Sounds like three of my favorite activities! I'll save the diving for later in the day when the water warms up. :)

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  8. Hey, where'd my comment go? Anyhow, again welcome Diane to your roast!
    I live in WPB and I have done a lot of snorkeling right along that jetty. I've seen swarms of Snook and sharks and things I never dreamed possible, being born in VT.
    The ocean has such a clear aqua color it's amazing!! Your book sounds right up my alley!

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  9. Don't forget to use those wonderful buttons Lyn put up to pass along to facebook etc.
    Where on the Lake does the book take place, we had a camp on Keeler's Bay in South Hero.

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  10. Shirtless men??? Point me attem!

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  11. Mary, I'm so jealous! I lived in West Palm Beach for twenty years. We recently relocated to North Carolina to be close to our son and granddaughters. It's been a huge adjustment. I miss the tropics, blue seas, stunning surroundings. My stories are all set in South Florida, mostly Palm Beach County. I often use the Intracoastal as a backdrop because it is so beautiful with all the waterfront property and mega boats. I'm homesick! lol

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'll trade you! As much as the water is beautiful, I just cannot stand the heat. I cocoon most of the year, cause It's so hot, I burn my butt on car seats! I love NC and the winters are not as bad as six months up North. I live three houses from the intracoastal and I watch the boat parades and fireworks from my front yard. But, something in me misses those season changes and my gardens are sub tropical house plants, no lilacs. So, let's trade houses! LOL
      Don't get me wrong, while everyone was in sub zero weather, I had the AC on. And did not miss the tons of snow. But, Christmas ain't the same in 80degree heat. I wanna be a snow bird!!

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  12. Sorry I'm late. I was afraid to come out sporting my new abdomen scar, but thanks to the magic of the roast, I'm in a two piece and looking kind of hot. Maybe I'll stay here a while. Cool water, hot sand, and even hotter guys. And wow! A hot book with a hot guy and in a medical setting. Right up my alley!

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  13. I totally understand where you're coming from! The heat was a big factor for us too. I do like the seasons here, but we had an apocalyptic winter that had me second-guessing our decision. I'm such a wimp!

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  14. Hi Lilly! Thanks for joining in. And yes, you do look hot in that sexy swimsuit. Strut your stuff!

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  15. I just want for a walk to show that hunky young man over there the local -er - wildlife and see we have new guests as well as more hostesses at the party! Hi everyone! Diane, that was really excellent advice you gave to aspiring novelists. It's hard work to be sure, and few writers make a lot of money, but it is such a rewarding and satisfying thing to do. (Besides, we can't help ourselves, can we, we just have to write!)

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  16. Yes, there's one thing about the ocean, you have to have on a bathing suit, and that means pecs, yes, the best part next to the six or eight pack is the pecs...I see a few potentials woohoo!

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    1. I don't know about you guys, but I'm ready for another drink! Has anyone seen Oliver?

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    2. I could use an Oliver right about now too!!

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    3. Lol! Oliver said he'll be right over.

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    4. LOL Leilah, couldn't we all! :)

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  17. Hi Diane!!
    Are you going to write anymore books featuring the LaCosta men?? I really liked those characters and the first 2 books of the trilogy. Your life story is very interesting, and kudos to you for following your dreams. Nice work & keep us posted on your upcoming books!!
    -Lindsay

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    Replies
    1. Hi Lindsay! I'm thrilled you liked the first two stories in my trilogy. I have one more LaCosta man waiting for his happy ending. Playing With Destiny comes out June 1st. It features the hot & sexy Christian. Can't wait to unleash him! I'll be sharing more details during the month of May. Thank you so much for the kind words. I'm truly living my dream and I haven't looked back.

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  18. I think your loyal readers need another short excerpt!! If you can!

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    Replies
    1. I'd like to share a blurb of story three, Playing With Destiny. I had a ton of fun writing this story!

      Fate brought them together. Will Destiny keep them apart?

      Destiny Quinn lives for her job. She loves being an IT Recruiter, traveling nationwide. But all work and no play has left her feeling restless. It's been a year since she's gone out on a date — or slept with a man. Suddenly, Destiny can't think about anything else. She's not looking for a relationship, just a good time and a sexy diversion. One steamy night of mind-blowing pleasure, then maybe she can get back to business.

      Christian LaCosta wants to prove to his family — and himself — that he is relationship material. Lately, it seems like everyone around him is in love. Maybe it's time to give up the fast life and fast women, quit being the odd man out. Christian decides to take the plunge and join an online dating service. When he's unwittingly hooked up with a luscious neighbor named Destiny, the coincidence is too much. Christian doesn't believe in fate, but one look at Destiny, and he's seeing a whole new future. Now he must convince this career-driven beauty that work isn't everything. Take a chance on them, and she can have it all.

      WARNING: Food Play, Hot Sex, Latin Hunk

      Delete
  19. Oliver appears, flashing his pecs, his open shirt wet with spray. He bows before Diane, totally besotted, and hands her a glass before escorting her to a grove of palm trees...

    Sorry anonymous - looks like you might have to wait a minute or three for your answer! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sorry guys! I was quiet for a spell because Oliver and I were...getting to know each other. Shhh. Don't tell on me.

      Delete
  20. LOL Diane, we won't say a word - no-one will be any the wiser!

    (Your hot Latino in Book 3 sounds like a gorgeous hunk of man too! Love the blurb!)

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  21. I love that blurb too! Looks like Oliver is enraptured by Diane, oh well, what's a girl gonna do. Mary bats her eyes at a guy with that V thing on below his navel. What is that called anyhow? It certainly is a nice addition to the pecs and six pack. Tossed the one with the eight pack, he was more interested in himself, and too much of a good thing ya know. I got my eyes on my evening snorkel partner. See you later...

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    Replies
    1. Too funny! And Mary, I'm not sure what that V thing is called either. I just call them dips. They're fun to look at. And write about. lol

      Delete
  22. Dunno about the US but over here in the UK we call them a 'mankini' - I prefer a bloke in speedos myself! :)

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  23. OMG did I miss the party? Sorry, I'm so late. I'm heading to the Dominican Republic on Monday and today was my do everything last minute day, like having the cats spayed and meeting with the G'girls principle. Don't ask. Anyway, hiya chickies and Diane too. Wowsa, Diane, this sounds like a great, HOT, beach read.

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  24. Thanks! Perfect for the Dominican Republic. :)

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  25. A huge Thank You to my lovely hostesses and guests! Had a fun time hanging out with you guys, and I really appreciated all the comments and questions. Stay sexy!

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  26. It's been great having you as our guest of honour, Diane, wishing you much success and great sales!

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  27. Sounds interesting

    bn100candg at hotmail dot com

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  28. Great cover, Debby! Sounds like a fascinating read! Bonnie

    ReplyDelete

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