Blog Tour + Author Interview & Giveaway: Amour Amour by Krista & Becca Ritchie

Posted in Blog Tours, Exclusive, Giveaways by Lacey

Click the banner to see the other stops on the tour!

Welcome to today’s stop on the Amour Amour promo tour!! I am incredibly excited to be a part of it! We have Krista & Becca Ritchie on the blog here again for an interview!

And in case you missed it – Amour Amour is HEEEERE!!!!!

Author Interview: Krista & Becca Ritchie

5 words to describe Amour Amour?

Krista: Circus, Acrobats, Love, Sex, Dreams – I went with five different words, not a sentence. Now I challenge Becca to make a 5-word sentence *grins in excitement*

Becca: Nikolai allures Thora with his…. (I ran out of words, sooooo I’m leaving the rest to your imagination!)

(LOL Becca!)

Why did you decide on having the circus as the setting of the book?

Krista: We’ve always found the circus interesting, far before we ever started writing. After we went to Vegas, we knew that the Vegas circus had to be the setting. It was enchanting and different. Plus, we were already shipping acrobats and aerialists while we were watching the Cirque du Soleil show. We just had to make a romance around it.

Becca: Oh yeah, we came out of that Vegas show dreaming about an acrobatic romance and we both looked at each other and were pretty much like “yep, we have to write this!”

What kind of research did you need to look up for Amour Amour?

Krista: We did so much research. We didn’t have any prior knowledge about the technique or fundamentals that go into being an acrobat – aside from the documentaries we watched years ago. So we had to look up lots of terms. I love researching, so it was really fun to delve into the technical sides of things.

Becca: Exactly what Krista said! I think we both have this natural desire to get “behind-the-scenes” of places we can’t be. And so we love documentaries that explore these different worlds, and then we have the ability to create a story and characters encompassing it. Thankfully there were plenty of sources and outlets to delve deeper into this specific type of circus.

How did you come up with the names for Thora and Nikolai? (LOVE Nikolai’s name, btw 😉 )

Krista: There are a handful of girls names that we know we want to write with in the future. Thora was among them. And so it was an easy choice. She was in that pot of names initially because of the actress Thora Birch. We love her. And we’re obsessed with the movie Now and Then so that’s how it came about.

Becca: We LOVE Thora Birch! And we knew Nikolai’s name had to have Russian roots, and of a long list, we gravitated towards this one the most.

How different was it writing Amour Amour than writing the Addicted series?

Krista: The main difference was that we had to meet and create these characters for the first time. We hadn’t done that since Addicted to You, since the Addicted series is so long. It was a little bit of work, but really enjoyable. We also had to focus on closure for Amour Amour since it’s a standalone.

Becca: The research aspect is another difference. We’ve never had to research this much for one singular book, but it’s been so much fun. Our love and admiration of aerialists and circus performers has only grown.

I need to know… How sexy is Amour Amour? (Nikolai sounds like a very dreamy man…)

Krista: It’s pretty sexy. It’s not in Nikolai’s POV but from Thora’s point of view, there is still definitely some steam. He’s a 6’5’’ Russian-American athlete after all 😉

Becca: The steam is high! Nikolai is very confident in bed, and Thora has never been with someone quite as…masculine as him.

(Suuuper happy about this!)

What was your favorite scene in Amour Amour?

Krista: I won’t be able to say it now because it’s a spoiler, but it’s one of the more emotional scenes between Nikolai and Thora. I’ll definitely reveal it on our Tumblr whenever it’s safe to start spoiling.

Becca: My favorite is a scene at the end, which I can really talk about, but a close second is the opening first few chapters. It’s one of my favorite beginnings of a book that we’ve written.

And lastly, what was the best part about writing Amour Amour?

Krista: Definitely creating those themes and characters. It’s everything we wanted it to be and more. I also love how well it fits in with our other books. It just feels like it can exist in the same world and universe we’ve created – which I love.

Becca: This book has such a special place in our hearts. We admire Thora so much, and I think she’s taught us a lot about courage and about stepping outside our comfort zones, even if it’s like wearing a size-zero turtleneck in the summer. Amour Amour impacted us, and we’re truly happy that we didn’t give up on it. After so many rewrites and months, we thought the concept might’ve been infeasible. But we kept trying. And here we are now 🙂 It’s been a joy, and we really hope you all love it too!

Thank you so much for the interview, Krista and Becca!!

Thanks so much for having us on your blog, Lacey!!! ❤ ❤

About Amour Amour

Title: Amour Amour
Author: Krista & Becca Ritchie
Standalone New Adult Romance
Pub Date: December 12th 2014

Love is a circus

“Every day,” he says lowly, “I hold a person’s life in my hands. The circus is based one-hundred percent off trust. I give it all to someone, and they give it all to me.”

The best aerial technique won’t land 21-year-old Thora James her dream role in Amour—a sexy new acrobatic show on the Vegas strip. Thora knows she’s out of her element the second she meets Amour’s leading performer. Confident, charming and devilishly captivating, 26-year-old Nikolai Kotova lives up to his nickname as the “God of Russia.”

When Thora unknowingly walks into the crosshairs of Nikolai’s after-show, her audition process begins way too soon. Unprofessional. That’s what Nik calls their “non-existent” relationship. It’s not like Thora can avoid him. For one, they may be partners in the future–acrobatic partners, that is. But getting closer to Nik means diving deeper into sin city and into his dizzying world.

Thora wants to perform with him, but when someone like Nikolai attracts the spotlight wherever he goes—Thora fears that she’s destined to be just background to his spellbinding show.

This sexy and exhilarating New Adult Romance can best be described as Cirque du Soleil meets the steamy, athletic romance of Center Stage.

*standalone & no love triangles—recommended for readers 18+ for mature content*

Purchase:
Amazon • Barnes & Noble • Kobo

Krista & Becca Ritchie are identical twins. They write New Adult books that make you cringe, gasp, and go ooh-la-la. (If you do that sort of thing.) They are currently working on the spin-offs and final books in the Addicted series. Connect with them on twitter and their website: kbritchie.com

Twitter • Website • Facebook • Tumblr • Pinterest
Krista Goodreads • Becca Goodreads

Kindle Paperwhite
3 Signed Paperbacks of AMOUR AMOUR

Both giveaways are open internationally!

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26Oct2014

Promo Tour + Author Interview & Giveaway: Addicted After All by Krista & Becca Ritchie

Posted in Blog Tours, Exclusive, Giveaways by Lacey

Click the banner to see other stops on the tour!

Welcome to today’s stop on the ADDICTED AFTER ALL promo tour!! So excited to be a part of it! I get to interview the ah-mazing Krista & Becca on the blog today.

AAA releases on Oct. 31st, which is also Lo’s birthday! AAA will also be the FINAL book in Lily and Lo’s POV’s in the Addicted series. I love the Addicted series so hard – it’s honestly one of the BEST series I’ve ever read. If you haven’t started this series yet, go go go!

Don’t forget –

FIVE. MORE. DAYS!!!!

Author Interview: Krista & Becca Ritchie

SO excited to interview you two again, Krista and Becca! ❤

**So… sniffles This is the LAST book in Lily and Lo’s POV. What do you two have to say about that? (It’s definitely a bittersweet thing for me.)**

Krista: It’s extremely bittersweet! I love Lily & Lo, they’re the couple that started it all and so it’s definitely hard to say goodbye. I think I was in a state of denial for 99% of the writing process. It really wasn’t until that very last chapter that I started bawling my eyes out. But even though it’s the end, I truly do believe it’s the right end for them.

Becca: We were totally in denial all the way through. Then we hit Lily’s last ever POV chapter, and it hit us full force. I love Addicted After All so much because it bridges themes from the beginning of the series, and Lily & Lo’s evolution is truly spotlighted. That’s all I can really say without being too spoilery 😉 But this book has become my favorite so far.

Did either of you cry while writing AAA? Or while writing any of the other books?

Krista: We cry while writing all the time lol! But for AAA it was especially rough, since this is the last book for Lily and Lo. And if I wasn’t wearing my noise cancelation headphones, I could actually hear Becca sobbing while she typed. We usually immerse ourselves into the story so much that if the characters are crying, we’re crying. If they’re laughing, we’re laughing. We’ve even been known to make the same facial expressions they would be making while we write. It’s one of the reasons we could never write in public! People would look at us like we’re crazy.

Becca: What Krista said! We cried a lot during Thrive, but the heavy sobbing came from Addicted After All. I think Kiss the Sky had the least amount of tears but many more laughs 🙂

Do you think readers will cry while reading AAA?

Krista: It just depends what type of reader you are. I know some readers who never cry in books. But if you’re more of an emotional reader *points to self* then I think you might at least tear up. I bawled. But…that’s me 😉

Becca: If you love Lily & Lo, it’ll probably be hard not to cry by the end. But like Krista said, it probably depends what kind of reader you are. As previously told, I’m clearly a heavy crier. I need a box of tissues next to me at all times.

(I’m totally the type of reader who rarely cries, but I have a feeling AAA will bring on the waterworks…)

How would you describe the feel of AAA compared to the other books in the series?

Krista: The other Lily and Lo books are very tortured. They’re at their rock bottom in Addicted to You, Lily reaches another bottom at Addicted for Now, and Lo hits another bottom in Thrive. They’ve been through a hell of a lot, and in Addicted After All they’re much less tortured but they’re still struggling with major life changes. I’m not sure if there is a tone for that. *looks to Becca for a better answer*

Becca: Hmmmm. I agree with Krista that Addicted After All isn’t as tortured as Addicted to You. It’s more light-hearted than possibly the rest of Lily & Lo’s books. They’re really able to be themselves without being saddled twenty-four-seven with their addictions. So light-hearted, a bit of fun, and of course, lots of emotion.

How long exactly is AAA? Is there a page or word count yet?

Krista: We can give you word count. We don’t know the exact page count until the book is formatted into paperback—which happens after the ebook is published. AAA is around 152,000 words. By comparison, Addicted for Now is 149,500 words. So yeah, it’s chubby.

Becca: It’s a big chubby one! Hopefully we’ll have the paperback ready soon. We’re going to hop on it as quickly as we can.

(Hurraaaay for chubby books!! 🙂 )

Will there be any OMFG moments in AAA?

Krista: Oh yeah! The big OMFG moment in AAA should surprise…everyone.

Becca: Yes!! I’m really looking forward to seeing how people react to *that* scene. Hopefully it’s a surprise or shock and whatnot. We didn’t know that people would love Connor’s lap dance in Kiss the Sky as much as they do, so it’s possible my guesses are a little off. But I’m thinking you all will be surprised 🙂

(Eeeep!!! SO excited to read the OMFG moment now!)

How much are you going to miss writing in Lily and Lo’s POV’s?

Krista: Immensely! We try not to think about it too much because then it does start becoming sad. I love, more than anything, writing in Lily’s POV. I love her humor. I love her quirkiness and all her flaws. I just love her. So it’s sad, but I have to remind myself that I have 5 books with her, and I can reread them anytime I want. It’s not the same as writing new material, but it’s better than nothing.

Becca: I adore writing Lo, out of everyone in the series. He’s probably my favorite. But I love where his story ended, and I’m okay with not going back. Because then it’d mean torturing them some more. And if anyone deserves a bit of rest, it’s them.

Do you two have anything to say to the fans that have stuck by Lily and Lo since the beginning?

Krista: We seriously never dreamed that anyone let alone so many people would love these characters enough to last 5 or 7 books with them. It’s just amazing. So thank you from the bottom of our hearts for reading their journey and sticking with it. We hope AAA is everything you wished it to be.

Becca: I think it takes very, very strong people to fall in love with Lily & Lo and to see them for more than their addictions. That’s all they want in life, and the fans of the series—who stand behind them—are giving that to Lily & Lo. It means the world to us.

(Love this!)

Any last words you’d like to say to Lily and Lo? (Even though I know it’s not the last we’ll see of them, we won’t have their POV’s anymore…)

Krista: Oh god. I might start crying again while I write this. Okay *collects oneself* Lily, you’re the one who started it all. Who took us on a huge journey and made all of our dreams come true. You never used to believe in yourself, but we’ve always believed in you. You made us laugh. And you made us cry. Your love story was one we always wanted to share—an epic romance with soul-binding love—and for that we thank you for existing on the pages. For coming to life in one way or another. *looks to Becca* Alright, I’m crying. You’ll have to say your piece to Lo.

Becca: I’m already tearing up. But here I go. Loren Hale, you are not worthless. You never were. Thank you for standing by Lily from beginning to end. And there are so many people standing beside you. You’ve made us see reasons for standing up. Reasons for living life. And continuing on. Your love for Lily has profoundly impacted us, and we’re grateful to be able to share your love story with the world.

(Aaawwwww, so sweet!!)

**Okay, because Connor Cobalt is my ULTIMATE BOOK BOYFRIEND, I have to ask for a Connor teaser! bats eyelashes Pretty please?**

Krista: Ultimate! YESSS! I approve of your book boyfriend choices. But, you know, I’m not biased or anything 😉 And a Connor Cobalt teaser, I’ll leave this for Becca. I’m afraid I’ll say too much.

Becca: Um. Um. Um. We’ve mentioned this briefly, but I think it’s a pretty good teaser for anyone who missed it. Connor is in a bit of a fight with someone throughout AAA. It’s not a leading cast member, but it’s someone that can definitely rival the intelligent smartass. And you all have met his new rival before.

Amour Amour is the next upcoming release after AAA! Is there anything new you can share about it?

Krista: We love writing about families. It’s one of our favorite elements in movies, TV shows, and books. The Addicted series has a huge focus on sibling and parent relationships. And you can also expect to see some family drama in Amour Amour.

Becca: And the circus! We’ve always wanted to read a book that focuses on acrobatic circus (think Cirque Du Soleil) and less carnival. So it’s a bit of an “athletic” book set in Vegas with twenty-somethings. It’s really fun, and it was extremely addicting to write. We had to pry ourselves off the computer.

(I’m SO excited for Amour Amour!)

What are you two working on right now?

Krista: Right now, as of writing this interview, we’re both focused on AAA tour materials. But as soon as we finish, we’re going to start the final revisions of Amour Amour and the early draft of Fuel the Fire.

Becca: We’re also working on bonus material for Connor & Rose plus Ryke & Daisy. There are more than a couple scenes that we’d been itching to write. So in any spare time we have, we jump to it and type away.

(Can’t wait for more bonus material!)

Thank you so much for the interview, Krista and Becca!! I’ll be counting down the days until AAA releases! ❤

Thank you so much for having us on your blog! Your questions were so amazing ❤

About Addicted After All

Title: Addicted After All
Author: Krista & Becca Ritchie
Series: Addicted #3 (full reading order below)
Pub Date: October 31st 2014

Two addicts. One epic love story.

Prepare for the worst.

That’s what Lily and Lo try to do when Jonathan Hale schedules an “important” meeting. The problem: after being swept into the public eye and battling their addictions, they’re not sure what the worst is anymore.

In a sea of many changes—including Ryke & Daisy living with them—Lily realizes that the best part of her fluctuating hormones might just be the worst.

Her sex drive is out of control.

Loren knows that she’s insatiable, but he’s not giving up on her. She’s too much a part of him. And as he carries more and more responsibility, some of the people that he loves doubt his resolve.

In the conclusion to their love story, Lily & Lo stand side-by-side to fight, one last time, for their happily ever after.

**AUTHORS’ NOTE**
Due to the 2-year gap between Addicted for Now (Addicted #2) and Addicted After All (Addicted #3), you must read Thrive (Addicted #2.5) or the Calloway Sisters spin-off series before reading Addicted After All.

Purchase AAA:
Ebook • Paperback

Reading Order: Addicted series

#1 ~ Addicted to You: My Review • Ebook • Paperback • Goodreads
#1.5 ~ Ricochet: My Review • Ebook • Paperback • Goodreads
#2 ~ Addicted for Now: My Review • Ebook • Paperback • Goodreads
Calloway Sisters #1 ~ Kiss the Sky: My Review • Ebook • Paperback • Goodreads
Calloway Sisters #2 ~ Hothouse Flower: Ebook • Paperback • Goodreads
#2.5 ~ Thrive: My Review • Ebook • Paperback • Goodreads
#3 ~ Addicted After All: Ebook • Paperback • Goodreads
Calloway Sisters #3 ~ Fuel the Fire: Goodreads (2015)
Calloway Sisters #4 ~ Long Way Down: Goodreads (2015)

Twitter • Website • Facebook • Tumblr • Pinterest
Krista Goodreads • Becca Goodreads

Kindle Paperwhite
3 Signed Paperbacks of ADDICTED AFTER ALL

Both giveaways are open internationally!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

8Sep2014

Blog Tour + Character Interview & Giveaway: Rival by Penelope Douglas

Posted in Blog Tours, Exclusive, Giveaways by Lacey

Click on the banner to follow the tour!

Welcome to today’s stop on the blog tour for RIVAL by Penelope Douglas! This book was amaaaaazing, ya’ll. Seriously, I loved it so hard. It was beautiful, gut-wrenching, and everything good you can expect from Penelope Douglas. You can read my review for Rival here. Aaaand, I highly recommend reading the other books in the series if you haven’t already! BULLY is the first book (my review) and Until You (my review) is BULLY in Jared’s POV.

So, let’s move on to the character Q&A! Yes, I was lucky enough to get to interview the characters from the series! ❤

Character Interview: Madoc & Fallon from Rival (with Tate & Jared)

Thank you for being here with me today, you guys!

Fallon & Madoc, how would you describe each other?

Fallon: Madoc is true. He doesn’t fake it, and he wants to be happy. And he spends every day making sure those around him are happy, too.

Madoc: Fallon intrigues me, because she fights with everyone and defies everything. But she let me in.

Fallon & Madoc, how did you feel when you saw each other for the very first time?

Madoc: What the hell is she wearing?

Fallon: What the hell is he wearing?

Fallon & Madoc, what’s the thing you love the most about each other? And the thing you hate the most?

Fallon: Love? His humor. He makes me smile. Hate? His kisses. They instantly turn me on, and no matter where we are, we need to go home immediately.

Madoc: Love? Her surrender. She talked a good talk, but finding out she wanted me. Yeah. And hate? I hate her cooking. It’s terrible. It’s so terrible, the dog won’t eat it. We don’t have a dog, but he would not eat it if he were there.

**So, Madoc… how much did it hurt getting that cough piercing?**

Madoc: I’d imagine it’s like a snakebite on my dick. But once the needle’s in, you have to finish.

Fallon, do you think you’ll ever wear all of your piercings again?

Fallon: Not the septum. I’m over that one, even though I loved it.

And which piercing hurt the most to get?

Fallon: Probably my tongue. And it was the hardest to heal.

Fallon & Madoc, will either of you get anymore tattoos?

Fallon: Yes.

Madoc: Yes, when she gives me kids.

Jared & Tate, what’s next for you two?

Jared: I’m just doing the ROTC thing. Hanging in there.

Tate: I’m looking at medical schools. Beyond that, we’re not planning too far ahead. Who knows what will happen with Jared’s career.

For everyone, what’s your favorite swear word?

Madoc: All of them.

Fallon: Shit.

Jared: Fuck.

Tate: Motherfucker.

Madoc & Fallon, what are your biggest turn-ons?

Madoc: Pajamas. I love a girl in pajamas. Right, Tate?

If there was a zombie apocalypse, who would survive the longest?

Tate.

And I’m being totally morbid here, but in what order would each of you die?

Madoc (because he’d give himself to save anyone), Fallon, Jared (because he’d give himself to save Tate), and Tate

And lastly–Madoc, I’m kind of in love with you. I know you’re with Fallon, but maybe we can go out sometime? 😉

Madoc: I am a people-pleaser, my love. However, I am a one-woman guy. And even if I weren’t, her father would make me one.

And that concludes this interview! Thanks again for being here!

Thank you for having us!!

Title: Rival
Series: Fall Away #2 (full reading order below)
Author: Penelope Douglas
Genre: NA / Contemporary Romance
Release Date: August 26th 2014
Tour Hosted by: As the Pages Turn

Madoc and Fallon. Two estranged teenagers playing games that push the boundaries between love and war…

She’s back.

For the two years she’s been away at boarding school, there was no word from her. Back when we lived in the same house, she used to cut me down during the day and then leave her door open for me at night.

I was stupid then, but now I’m ready to beat her at her own game…

I’m back.

Two years and I can tell he still wants me, even if he acts like he’s better than me.

But I won’t be scared away. Or pushed down. I’ll call his bluff and fight back. That’s what he wants, right? As long as I keep my guard up, he’ll never know how much he affects me….

Buy Links:
Amazon Kindle • Amazon Paperback • Barnes & Noble • iTunes • Amazon UK

Now here’s an excerpt! This is from one of my favorite scenes in the book…

Reaching around, he twisted my chin towards the mirror, and I sucked in a breath. “What do you see?!” he shouted.

“You and me!” I blurted out. “Madoc and Fallon!”

My heart was racing.

I looked at him through the mirror. I sat on one side of his lap, so he could see from the other side, and we stared at each other, my chest rising and falling more urgently.

“That’s not what I see,” he said in a low voice. “Those names mean nothing to me. They’re simple and empty. When I’m with you, I don’t see the daughter of a gold digging bitch and an Irish drug lord or the son of a crooked lawyer and a vegan Barbie.”

I almost wanted to laugh. Madoc had an ironic way of looking at the world.

But he wasn’t smiling. He was scowling. He was dead serious, and I knew from experience that his genuine moments were few and far between.

He reached up, threading one hand into my hair while the other hand rested on the chair.

“I see everything I want for as long as I can have it,” he continued. “I see a woman that wears the cutest little scowl like she’s two years old and was just told she couldn’t have candy. I see a guy that went and got an apadravya piercing, because he wanted to live in her world for even a little while.”

I closed my eyes. Don’t do this to me, Madoc. Please.

Reading Order: Fall Away series

#1 ~ Bully: My Review • Ebook • Goodreads
#1.5 ~ Until You: My Review • Ebook • Goodreads
#2 ~ Rival: My Review • Ebook • Paperback • Goodreads
#3 ~ Falling Away: Ebook • Paperback • Goodreads (Jan. 6, 2015)

Penelope Douglas is a writer and teacher in Las Vegas. Born in Dubuque, Iowa, she is the oldest of five children. Penelope attended the University of Northern Iowa, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, because her father told her to “just get the degree!” She then earned a Masters of Science in Education at Loyola University in New Orleans, because she hated Public Administration. One night, she got tipsy and told the bouncer at the bar where she worked that his son was hot, and three years later they were married. To the son, not the bouncer. They have spawn, but just one. A daughter named Aydan. Penelope loves sweets, the show Sons of Anarchy, and she shops at Target almost daily.

Website • Facebook • Goodreads • Twitter • Pinterest

Penelope is offering up the following prizes. The giveaways are international and ends at 11:59 PM CST 09/15/2014.

(2) $100 gift cards for either Amazon or B&N winners choice
(2) Signed paperbacks of Rival
(1) Signed set paperbacks of Bully, Until You and Rival

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19Mar2014

Promo Tour + Author Interview & Giveaway: Hothouse Flower by Krista & Becca Ritchie

Posted in Blog Tours, Exclusive, Giveaways by Lacey

Click the banner to follow the tour!

First off, I want to say that I am so incredibly happy to be a part of the Hothouse Flower promo tour! Hothouse Flower is out in just NINE more days–can you believe it? It seems so soon and yet so far away… But seriously, in just NINE more days, we FINALLY get to have Ryke and Daisy’s story in our hands. God, I cannot wait!!

And if you don’t know who Ryke and Daisy are, they’re characters from the Addicted series by Krista & Becca Ritchie (you can see the recommended reading order below the interview). The Addicted series is seriously one of my all-time FAVORITES! If I could make everyone read it, I would. 🙂 But today, I get to have the amazing author duo here on the blog! Krista & Becca are twin authors and simply ah-mazing! So read on for my interview with K & B, and don’t forget to enter the fabulous giveaway from them!

Author Interview: Krista & Becca Ritchie

**Hothouse Flower is COMING SOON!! Can you tell us if we have anything to look forward to like cough another lap dance cough?**

Krista: Oh gosh, how do I answer this without spoilers? It’s so difficult, lol! There’s not another lap dance. I don’t think we would be able to write anything that tops Connor Cobalt’s epic lap dance. But there are some scenes that may make you gasp. It’s all very Ryke and Daisy. Obviously, I’m not very good at this, lol. *looks to Becca*

Becca: Flirtiness! There is flirting to be had. Maybe even flirting on motorcycles. Maybe even MORE!

One of my favorite, favorite Ryke quotes that just stuck out to me was one from Kiss the Sky– “For as much as I give Ryke a hard time, I can’t imagine another person with a kinder soul.” Because underneath all those ‘fucks’ and middle fingers, Ryke truly does have a beautiful heart. In the Bonus Material, we learn that he can also understand French. I love that Ryke has so much hidden depth to him–it makes him all the more amazing and attractive. Did you two always plan for Ryke to be ‘more than meets the eye’? And just how much do we learn about the Ryke underneath the harsh exterior?

Krista: I love that quote as well! It truly sums up Ryke’s character. He’s a nice guy but he doesn’t allow people to see that part of him. We usually don’t plan our character’s personalities out to that extent. They’re just something that develops when we start giving them backstories.

Becca: You will definitely get inside his head and see that his intentions are good ones, even if they come across harsh. Connor peeled back those layers in Kiss the Sky, and it’ll be nice for everyone to see all of Ryke Meadows in Hothouse Flower 😉

I looove the pictures you have on your Pinterest! And your Q&A’s on Tumblr… and your Twitter, Facebook, and everywhere else you two show up! But how on earth do you have time to do all that AND write the most incredible books ever?

Krista: Thank you! I’m pretty obsessed with pinning, so Pinterest is a dangerous place for me. I’d like to say that we’re magical and have found magic hours in the day that other people don’t have, but really we’re always working. Between social media and writing and promoting our books, we work 7 days a week, 12 hours a day. It’s not an exaggeration. But it’s what we love and it’s our dream to have this career, so we’ll happily put in the hours. We wouldn’t want to do anything else. And talking to everyone on social media sites is less like work and more like our fun time anyway 😉

Becca: We do love it, and we’ll eventually slow down, I’m sure. But not yet 🙂

One of the most heartbreaking scenes for me to read was when Ryke found out about what his mother did to Lily. What were the most heartbreaking scenes for you two to write?

Krista: Oh yeah, that one was rough to write! I think the ending for Addicted to You was probably the most heartbreaking for me. Lo is such a tortured soul, so to see him break down and then have to leave Lily at the end of the book was really hard. But it was something that had to be done.

Becca: I agree with Krista. I think I was crying when it was my turn to work on the scene where Lo finds out the truth. But Ryke finding out about his mom was nearly as painful. I love that moment at the end where it’s a role reversal of sorts, and in that moment, Lo had to be strong for Ryke. There are also quite a few heartbreaking scenes in Hothouse Flower that had me all choked up.

What’s the weirdest/funniest thing you’ve ever had to look up for your books?

Krista: You know, when we wrote Addicted to You we were using our campus’ internet at our University and I was so paranoid that some IT student behind a desk was looking at everything I was searching. My history was littered with sites about sex addiction. But I don’t know if I really have a funny search. Most of my searches are usually for places if they’re not about sex addiction. Like Acapulco, Mexico and stuff like that. I’m sure Becca has a better story.

Becca: Ummm, I remember when I was researching things for Kiss the Sky, I wanted Rose to say that she was so angry that she could kill a group of pandas, but she wouldn’t say a “group” she would say the actual term. You know like a “pride” of lions. Or a “litter” of kittens. So I searched for what a group of pandas would be called. I was so saddened by the answer that I Tweeted about it!

Apparently Pandas don’t group together. They’re loners!

I’ve always wondered–why make Ricochet and Thrive optional to read? Why make the series 3 books with 2 full-length companions and not 5 books total? I always tell everyone not to skip Ricochet, even though they can!

Krista: This a great question! And I think a lot of people are curious about it. We actually have two reasons.

1. Ricochet was always intended to be a novella (but it ended up being longer). We hate when the main male characters leave in second books. Edward left in New Moon. Kaidan left in Sweet Peril. There are plenty more examples, and we don’t like it. But Lo had to leave for rehab and we felt like we couldn’t skip over Lily’s journey during that time. So we wanted Ricochet to be optional for those who don’t like it when the male lead leaves.

2. We’re not that popular. Not everyone will read all of the books in our series. Not everyone will want to. Especially since we’re not Abbi Glines or Jennifer L. Armentrout. A 7 book series is a huge commitment for readers, and we knew that by making some of our books optional, it would be easier for some to jump into the series.

Becca: The second point Krista made is very important to us. We’re still new authors, and some people may be afraid to take a chance on our books. We never want this series to seem too overwhelming or daunting, and we’re definitely trying our hardest to show that you can jump in at certain points. For instance, you can JUST read Kiss the Sky and Hothouse Flower if you want. If you’re the type of reader who doesn’t like to commit to a new author, this may be a good place for you to start. Now, die-hard Addicted series fans will disagree and say to read the whole series from the beginning, but it really just depends on what type of reader you are.

I’ve heard that you two are working on other books not related to the Addicted series! (YES!! pumps fist) Do you have any news you could share about them? (I’m seriously a fan for life–I’ll read anything and everything you two write!)

Krista: Thanks, that means so much! And I wish we had some teaser or news, but it’s all hush-hush. We’re working on two new series right now. All I can say is that one of them is going to be called the “Like Us” series.

Becca: I’m really excited that we’re going to be able to work on books outside of the series (as well as continuing the Addicted series with Thrive and Addicted After All!) It’ll be fun to give all of you a whole new world *cue Aladdin music*

And lastly, 5 words to describe Hothouse Flower?

Krista: Illicit, fun, thrilling, sexy, surprises

Becca: Can I give 5 words too or is that cheating? Oh well, I’m doing it! WILD, HOT, DARING, FEAR, FORBIDDEN

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Krista and Becca!! You two are the best! 🙂

K&B: Aw, thank you for having us on your blog!! ❤ ❤

Title: Hothouse Flower
Author: Krista & Becca Ritchie
Series: Calloway Sisters #2 (Spin-Off of the Addicted series)
(full reading order below)
Pub Date: March 28^th, 2014

Ryke Meadows, meet Daisy Calloway … she’s all grown up.

Twenty-five-year-old Ryke Meadows knows he’s hard to love. With a billion-dollar inheritance, a track-star resume, and an alpha-male personality—he redefines the term likable asshole. But he’s not living to make friends. Or enemies. He just wants to free climb three of the toughest mountains in Yosemite without drama or interruption.

And then he receives a distressed call from a girl in Paris—a girl that he has never been allowed to have.

Daisy Calloway is eighteen. Finally. With her newfound independence, she can say goodbye to her overbearing mother and continue her modeling career. Next stop, Paris. Fashion Week begins with a bang, and Daisy uncovers the ugly reality of the industry. She wants to prove to her family that she can live on her own, but when everything spirals out of control, she turns to Ryke to keep her secrets.

As Daisy struggles to make sense of this new world and her freedom, she pushes the limits and fearlessly rides the edge. Ryke knows there’s deep hurt beneath every impulsive action. He must keep up with Daisy, and if he lets her go, her favorite motto—“live as if you’ll die today”—may just come true.

New Adult Romance: recommended for readers 18+ for mature content

***Authors’ Note***
Hothouse Flower is a spin-off of the Addicted series. Kiss the Sky is required before reading, and we strongly recommend reading the Addicted series before this spin-off.

Purchase:
Ebook • Paperback

Reading Order: Addicted series

Krista & Becca Ritchie write New Adult books that make you cringe, gasp, and go ooh-la-la. (If you do that sort of thing.) They are currently working on the spin-offs and final books in the Addicted series. Connect with them on twitter and their website: kbritchie.com

Twitter • Website • Facebook • Tumblr • Pinterest
Krista Goodreads • Becca Goodreads

$15 Amazon Gift Card & 3 Kindle Ebooks of Hothouse Flower
**open internationally**

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3Mar2014

Book Blitz + Interview with Aleatha Romig: Make Me: Twelve Tales of Dark Desire

Posted in Exclusive, Giveaways, Spotlight by Lacey

Make Me: Twelve Tales of Dark Desire
Boxed Set
Publication date: March 3rd 2014
Genres: Romance

Take a trip to the dark side with 12 books by some of the hottest names in edgy romance, including USA Today Bestselling authors CJ Roberts, Eliza Gayle, and Aleatha Romig!

Pam Godwin – Beneath the Burn
Skye Warren – Wanderlust
Claire Thompson – Enslaved
Cari Silverwood – Take Me Break Me
Annabel Joseph – Comfort Object
Aleatha Romig – Consequences
Shoshanna Evers – The Man Who Holds the Whip
Annika Martin – The Hostage Bargain
Jasmine Haynes – Take Your Pleasure
Eliza Gayle – Play With Me
Pepper Winters – Tears of Tess
CJ Roberts – Captive in the Dark

These e-books would cost over $40 if purchased separately. This set will only be available for a limited time, so order your copy now!

All of these books are 18+, some are new adult romance, some are erotic romance, but all feature dark themes.

Purchase:
Amazon • Barnes and Noble

Author Interview: Aleatha Romig

Please tell us about Consequences, your addition to the amazing anthology Make Me: Twelve Tales of Dark Desire.

Consequences was my first novel and is the first in the Consequences Series, which includes: Consequences, Truth, Convicted, and the Behind His Eyes Reading Companion Trilogy. Consequences is the story of Claire Nichols, who wakes in an unfamiliar bedroom. She’s been kidnapped, used, and abused by the handsome, charismatic, and wealthy Anthony Rawlings. Claire quickly learns that his public and private personas are drastically different. Survival requires following his rules. However, Consequences isn’t only about her survival, but it’s also a thriller/mystery; thus the puzzle piece on the cover. As you read, you’ll learn that Claire’s abduction was not a random act. Anthony Rawlings chose Claire for a purpose—as you read, hopefully, you will put together the pieces of the puzzle and learn why Claire was forced to face the Consequences.

What was the most difficult thing about writing Consequences?

As I stated, Consequences was my first ever novel. I didn’t know the rules, and broke most of them. I didn’t know that you weren’t supposed to approach subjects like rape and domestic abuse. I didn’t know that I was supposed to sugar-coat it. I didn’t know that I couldn’t make my characters flawed and real. Now that I know those rules, I’m very glad I broke them. I believe that readers are tired of reading predictable stories, they crave something different. I love the darkness of Consequences as well as the other amazing stories in Make Me. I believe that some people crave a world darker than the one we would personally want to inhabit. Writing Consequences was often an emotional struggle. Claire Nichols lived in my head so completely that when she was happy, I was happy. When she wasn’t—neither was I.

Are all of the books in this series currently available and how long did they take you to write?

Yes, the series: Consequences, Truth, and Convicted are all available. Each novel took me a year to write. They are long (“long assed” according to my amazing formatter) novels. They range from 165K words to 190K words. There are many twists and turns and the second novel, Truth, introduces a plethora of new characters. In the reading companions, I’ve included a timeline of events as well as a glossary of characters. The companions are not all complete.

What are you working on now?

Currently, I’m working on the Consequences Series Reading Companions. Though my stories are told in 3^rd person, they are predominately from the point of view of Claire. The reading companions are entitled Behind His Eyes. They are NOT total rewrites of each novel. They are significant scenes from each novel as well as behind-the-scenes scenes. What Claire believes is happening and what’s really occurring are two different things. With Behind His Eyes, I show you what’s really going on from Anthony (Tony) Rawlings POV. Behind His Eyes Consequences was released in January of 2014, Behind His Eyes Truth will be released March 18, 2014, and Behind His Eyes Convicted will be released May 20, 2014.

Do you have plans for another series?

Yes! I’m very excited! I can’t wait to get going on this next series. I must admit, I’m not a planner. I have an idea and know where I want it to go. That was what I had with Consequences. I have to “get into” my characters and once I do, they lead me. As a matter of fact, Consequences was meant as a standalone book. I worked very hard to weave Truth and Convicted into the paradigm I’d set with Consequences. For that reason, I can’t say if my next series will be one, two, three, or more books…I will let them decide.

How do you feel about being included in Make Me: Twelve Tales of Dark Desire?

I’m honored! The Dark Duet was my first “dark desire” read, after writing Consequences and Truth. I like crime shows and I read a lot of thrillers, but all the romances I’d read up to that point were pretty fluffy. (We all need that once in a while) I loved CJ Robert’s story! I was truly “captivated”. Since that time, my reading genres have broadened—exponentially. Recently, I finished Pepper Winters’ Tears of Tess and Quintessentially Q. Again, blown away! It takes a lot to throw me—Pepper did it! Skye Warren, Eliza Gayle, I could go on and on with each and every author! There is so much talent in this amazing anthology. I’m honored to be included!

Thank you for considering MAKE ME: Twelve tales of dark desire. We hope you enjoy your trip! Please check out the contributing authors to find out more about their books and upcoming events.

Aleatha Romig – Consequences
Website • Facebook • Twitter

Skye Warren – Wanderlust
Website • Facebook • Twitter

Eliza Gayle – Play With Me
Website • Facebook • Twitter

Cari Silverwood – Take Me, Break Me
Website • Facebook • Twitter

Jasmine Haynes – Take Your Pleasure
Website • Facebook • Twitter

Pam Godwin – Beneath the Burn
Website • Facebook • Twitter

Annabel Joseph – Comfort Object
Website • Facebook • Twitter

Claire Thompson – Enslaved
Website • Facebook • Twitter

Annika Martin – The Hostage Bargain
Website • Facebook • Twitter

Shoshanna Evers – The Man Who Holds the Whip
Website • Facebook • Twitter

Pepper Winters – Tears of Tess
Website • Facebook • Twitter

CJ Roberts – Captive in the Dark
Website • Facebook • Twitter

$100 Amazon Gift Card
Signed copy of Don’t Let Go by Skye Warren
Signed copy of Comfort Object by Annabel Joseph (US only)
Signed copy of The Man Who Holds the Whip by Shoshanna Evers
Signed copy of Enslaved by Claire Thompson
Signed copy of Beneath the Burn by Pam Godwin
Signed copy of Wanderlust by Skye Warren

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Author Interview: Krista & Becca Ritchie

5 words to describe Amour Amour?

Why did you decide on having the circus as the setting of the book?

What kind of research did you need to look up for Amour Amour?

How did you come up with the names for Thora and Nikolai? (LOVE Nikolai’s name, btw 😉 )

How different was it writing Amour Amour than writing the Addicted series?

I need to know… How sexy is Amour Amour? (Nikolai sounds like a very dreamy man…)

What was your favorite scene in Amour Amour?

And lastly, what was the best part about writing Amour Amour?

Thank you so much for the interview, Krista and Becca!!

About Amour Amour

Share this:

Author Interview: Krista & Becca Ritchie

SO excited to interview you two again, Krista and Becca! ❤

So… *sniffles* This is the LAST book in Lily and Lo’s POV. What do you two have to say about that? (It’s definitely a bittersweet thing for me.)

Did either of you cry while writing AAA? Or while writing any of the other books?

Do you think readers will cry while reading AAA?

How would you describe the feel of AAA compared to the other books in the series?

How long exactly is AAA? Is there a page or word count yet?

Will there be any OMFG moments in AAA?

How much are you going to miss writing in Lily and Lo’s POV’s?

Do you two have anything to say to the fans that have stuck by Lily and Lo since the beginning?

Any last words you’d like to say to Lily and Lo? (Even though I know it’s not the last we’ll see of them, we won’t have their POV’s anymore…)

Okay, because Connor Cobalt is my ULTIMATE BOOK BOYFRIEND, I have to ask for a Connor teaser! *bats eyelashes* Pretty please?

Amour Amour is the next upcoming release after AAA! Is there anything new you can share about it?

What are you two working on right now?

Thank you so much for the interview, Krista and Becca!! I’ll be counting down the days until AAA releases! ❤

About Addicted After All

Reading Order: Addicted series

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Character Interview: Madoc & Fallon from Rival (with Tate & Jared)

Thank you for being here with me today, you guys!

Fallon & Madoc, how would you describe each other?

Fallon & Madoc, how did you feel when you saw each other for the very first time?

Fallon & Madoc, what’s the thing you love the most about each other? And the thing you hate the most?

So, Madoc… how much did it hurt getting that *cough* piercing?

Fallon, do you think you’ll ever wear all of your piercings again?

And which piercing hurt the most to get?

Fallon & Madoc, will either of you get anymore tattoos?

Jared & Tate, what’s next for you two?

For everyone, what’s your favorite swear word?

Madoc & Fallon, what are your biggest turn-ons?

If there was a zombie apocalypse, who would survive the longest?

And I’m being totally morbid here, but in what order would each of you die?

And lastly–Madoc, I’m kind of in love with you. I know you’re with Fallon, but maybe we can go out sometime? 😉

And that concludes this interview! Thanks again for being here!

Reading Order: Fall Away series

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Author Interview: Krista & Becca Ritchie

Hothouse Flower is COMING SOON!! Can you tell us if we have anything to look forward to like *cough* another lap dance *cough*?

I looove the pictures you have on your Pinterest! And your Q&A’s on Tumblr… and your Twitter, Facebook, and everywhere else you two show up! But how on earth do you have time to do all that AND write the most incredible books ever?

One of the most heartbreaking scenes for me to read was when Ryke found out about what his mother did to Lily. What were the most heartbreaking scenes for you two to write?

What’s the weirdest/funniest thing you’ve ever had to look up for your books?

I’ve always wondered–why make Ricochet and Thrive optional to read? Why make the series 3 books with 2 full-length companions and not 5 books total? I always tell everyone not to skip Ricochet, even though they can!

I’ve heard that you two are working on other books not related to the Addicted series! (YES!! *pumps fist*) Do you have any news you could share about them? (I’m seriously a fan for life–I’ll read anything and everything you two write!)

And lastly, 5 words to describe Hothouse Flower?

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Krista and Becca!! You two are the best! 🙂

Reading Order: Addicted series

Share this:

Author Interview: Aleatha Romig

Please tell us about Consequences, your addition to the amazing anthology Make Me: Twelve Tales of Dark Desire.

What was the most difficult thing about writing Consequences?

Are all of the books in this series currently available and how long did they take you to write?

What are you working on now?

Do you have plans for another series?

How do you feel about being included in Make Me: Twelve Tales of Dark Desire?

Share this:

**So… sniffles This is the LAST book in Lily and Lo’s POV. What do you two have to say about that? (It’s definitely a bittersweet thing for me.)**

**Okay, because Connor Cobalt is my ULTIMATE BOOK BOYFRIEND, I have to ask for a Connor teaser! bats eyelashes Pretty please?**

**So, Madoc… how much did it hurt getting that cough piercing?**

**Hothouse Flower is COMING SOON!! Can you tell us if we have anything to look forward to like cough another lap dance cough?**

I’ve heard that you two are working on other books not related to the Addicted series! (YES!! pumps fist) Do you have any news you could share about them? (I’m seriously a fan for life–I’ll read anything and everything you two write!)