PHANTASM FRIDAY

The Moonlighters Welcome Cherie De Sues

Please welcome Cherie De Sues into the Moonlight. Cherie De Sues is the author of Dangerous Curves which was recently released by Noble Romance Publishing. Other books published in 2010 by Cherie are The Seduction of Simone, Triage, Lacy: A Bad Girl's Revenge, Lacy: A Bad Girl's Romance, Tales of the Red Moon Clan, South of the Border and soon to be released, To Love A Thief.

Now, it's time to create a little mayhem and get to the good stuff and reveal all of Cherie's deepest darkest secrets in the moonlight. LOL So, grab your favorite wicked drink, sink your teeth into something decadent, sit back, relax and enjoy getting to know Cherie De Sues.


MLM: The holidays are fast approaching and things always seem to get busier during this time of year. Do you have a relaxing technique that helps you de-stress? If so, please share, because this is advice we all need!

CHERIE: My technique to distress is to do something creative. Whether I'm working on a new page for Irish Gypsy's Parlor or adding a chapter onto my latest novel. Losing myself in another world takes me away from car problems, visiting relatives and cooking for a large group. This is my way of taking a "time out" from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, especially during the holidays.


MLM: What, if any, Thanksgiving traditions (decorating, gathering with friends and family for a meal, etc.) do you have?

CHERIE: Wow, until recently I would have said zero. Now, I'm facing a long drive to visit my aging father, getting a hotel, bringing my dog Reilly, my son and still manage to stay sane! Organizing an unforeseen trip is a real pain, but seeing family is important. Tradition changes as families grow, shrink then grow again. I love sit-down dinners with twenty adults all talking at once.


MLM: What was your most memorable Thanksgiving and why?

CHERIE: Probably the last time I was seated with my mother and father. My mom passed on and my father remarried. I will always remember the care and love my mother put into every holiday for her family. She was a special lady.


MLM: What is a must have food at your Thanksgiving dinner table?

CHERIE: I couldn't imagine a dinner without Turkey. I really don't care about the other holidays, but Thanksgiving has to be about the Turkey. Stuffed with cranberry, apple stuffing and served falling off the bone makes my mouth water. My grandfather used to make mashed rootabaga, mine just doesn't taste the same. I miss the food that I remember during my childhood.


MLM: Tell us 3 things you are thankful for this year, please.

CHERIE: I'm very thankful for my son, Scott. He's an exceptional man, straight A smart, and is finishing up his second degree in computers. I'm thankful for my dog, Reilly. He plays and walks me often when I would just keep typing my novels. I'm grateful I have the opportunity to do what I most enjoy in life, write. Not everyone has that in their life and for a long time neither did I as I worked in the operating room for years. Now I'm enjoying every minute of every day with the three things that make me the happiest.


MLM: Just for fun, if you could be among any of the original members of that first Thanksgiving, who would it be, the Pilgrims or the Wampanoag (Native Americans)? Why?

CHERIE: Definitely the Wampanoag. The Native Americans were advanced in planting techniques, hunting food and living in the frigid climate of Massachusetts. Those hunky Native American men were so hot and the Pilgrims were so uptight! Yeah, I'd want to be a member of the Wampanoag!


MLM: NaNo is popular among authors each November. Maybe it's so popular because it helps self-motivate so many of us during the encroaching holidays. Did you commit to NaNo this year? If yes, do you have any advice how to make NaNo a success? If no, what was your driving motivation to stay strong and avoid the month I've deemed "crazy NaNo"?

CHERIE: I am participating and am in the San Diego writers group who has a wager with the Australian group this year for the most words written. I wrote The Seduction of Simone last year and it was released three months ago by Noble Romance Publishing. I look forward to winning again this year and writing another award-winning romance. My advice to anyone who is participating in NaNoWriMo is to stay on track with 1,500 words a day. 50,000 words is a lot if you try to do it all at the end. Get a partner who will encourage you to finish your 50,000 words!


MLM: Swashbuckling pirates like Johnny Depp are sexy—Argh!—but e-pirates are not! How do you handle e-pirates in your writing world? Do you have any advice or wish to share any experience with other writers? Anything you wish to say to e-pirates in general?

CHERIE: E-pirates makes stealing sound sexy. Let's call them thieves. Unfortunately, the digital age has created a group of individuals who see nothing wrong in downloading stolen property. The best way to handle the websites that allow stolen novels to be downloaded is to use the form from Romance Writers of America and fill it out for the website who has stolen your story. There are groups who are actively seeking legal action against website thieves. The US government has compiled a list of these sites and plans to shut them down AND make them accountable for loss revenue. Let's not forget the uninformed readers who frequent places like this…I figure they will never buy an ebook anyway and I haven't really lost a sale. I just don't want my novels to be seen on these sites full of leeches. Bad juju!



MLM: Now, let’s get to know a little more about your writing, Cherie De Sues...What genre do you write and what’s the draw for you?

CHERIE: I write thrillers, paranormal and contemporary suspense novels in sensual to sizzling heat levels. I really enjoy suspense and thrillers more than a standard contemporary novel. I need action, excitement and edge-of-your-seat thrills to entertain me. So that's what I write.


MLM: If you could describe your writing with a word or phrase, what would it be? Riveting. What do you want readers to take with them when they've finished reading your story?

CHERIE: I hope readers feel as though they've taken a journey full of action, romance and thrills. A ride that takes them through all of a human beings emotions with a satisfying ending.


MLM: Imagine for a moment you're granted ONE wish with regard to your writing. It can be anything you want—besides becoming a national bestseller, because what author doesn't want that, right?—your imagination is your only limit here! What would you wish for?

CHERIE: I'd wish for a better understanding of editing techniques…I mean really, by the time I finish a novel I'd like to move on to the next novel. Instead I do line-by-line edits that can take as long as the book did to write.


MLM: What do you dislike the most about being an author?

CHERIE: Editing for long periods of time, very frustrating, but necessary.


MLM: What do you like the most about being an author?

CHERIE: Chatting with readers, promoting, book signings, and getting the next big idea for the new novel.


MLM: Who decides what you write about, you or your muse? What kind of influence do you have over your story, or is the muse always the one basting the turkey?

CHERIE: Good question. I like to think the muse and I have a mutual understanding about where I want to go in the story. Sometimes I'm taken into directions I wasn't prepared for, but I rarely backtrack. I found that letting my muse take me away from my planned novel keeps the writing fresh. Some of my best work came when I deviated from the original structure of the story.


MLM: Have you ever based a character on a real-life person? If so, why? Was it simply to immortalize them or was there more to it than that? If you can, tell us who this person was without revealing their identity! We’re all curious here!

CHERIE: A friend lost her mother recently and I had the opportunity to meet her a couple of times. Though old and frail, she had a mischievous glint in her eye. I've created a character in "West Salem", the novel I'm working on now that incorporates her personality and sassy manner. I like the idea of immortalizing such a grand dame.


MLM: What character did you have the most fun creating and why?

CHERIE: In "Tales of the Red Moon Clan", the hero is a bounty hunter shapeshifter from the Navajo tribe. This character was fully fleshed out in every way. Sexy, strong, vulnerable, and with a great sense of humor. Doing extensive research then writing about the Native American traditions surrounding shapeshifting and medicine men was great. I really liked creating Neol and readers adore him.


MLM: If you had the opportunity to meet just one of your characters in real life, who would it be and why? Which of your characters would you never want to meet under any circumstance and why?

CHERIE: Neol is such a warm and strong willed man that he would be my first choice. All of my male characters are strong-willed and confident…gee whiz, so are the women. The character I would not want to meet is the budding serial killer in "The Seduction of Simone". The man is devious and insane.


MLM: Thanks so much for joining us, Cherie, it's been a treat getting to know you better!

BLURB:

Selena Russo has won the coveted spot as a full-figured spokesmodel for the Rubenesque Romantix clothing line in Paris. When Selena starts getting hate mail, she ignores the warnings—models aren't known for their congeniality when they lose a big modeling gig. Especially a three-year, multimillion-dollar contract in the biggest ad campaign ever for curvy women.

Logan’s a recent ex-Navy SEAL with a war injury, and his ex CO asks him to protect Selena as her photographer. When the death threats heat up with a dead pooch and bullets flying, Logan focuses hard on the sensual violet-eyed beauty. It’s Logan’s pleasure to cover the body of a seductive curvy temptress, both in and out of the bedroom as their romance burns up the sheets.

EXCERPT:

Gigi appraised her in the floor length mirror and shook her head. "You need a prop, but I don't know, maybe an umbrella?"

"Let me see what Logan thinks."

Selena walked out of the tent and a picnic blanket lay on the grass. Charming. As she came closer, Logan held a golden retriever puppy. The pup looked adorable and wagged his tail in pleasure as she approached.

"Aw." The pup licked her palm and she immediately fell in love with the little guy. "What a great idea."

She took her shoes off and Gigi caught on quick, laying the pumps out on the blanket at a great angle. Logan chuckled, as Selena kneeled taking the puppy, and at once, he started shooting. She cuddled, played, and had a little tug of war with one of the shoes as she giggled hysterically. The antics were too much fun until the puppy went for her scarf and she tumbled down on the blanket with the puppy licking her face.

"Uh oh, I think I need a touch up." She went back to her knees and brought the puppy up in her arms. "I'd forgotten how much fun puppies can be."

Gabrielle took out some products, touched up the cheek, and put some of Selena's curls back in place.

"If I knew you were going to be rolling around with a dog, I'd have put in more pins." She laughed and put in extra bobby pins to hold the hair in place.

Logan reviewed the film on his laptop on the table and turned to them. "You know, I think we've got this one."

"Really, so fast?" Disappointed, she handed the puppy to Gigi and walked over to look. "Do you mind if I see the shots?"

He moved and let her step in front of the screen, pleasantly surprised by the warmth and depth of the photos. The light had filtered through the red highlights in her hair and glowed as the puppy filled her arms. The clothing looked lived in, instead of modeled.

"These are wonderful Logan—you've shown how the clothes move." His face came close to hers as he touched the pad and showed her one after another of better and better shots. "I'm thrilled—I think the DuPont's and Mrs. Belladonna are going to flip out." Filled with excitement, she gave him a kiss on the cheek. He grinned looking pleased.

"Then let's do more. Go get dressed; I have another surprise."

His eyes held a challenging look, and she flashed him a devilish smile. "You're on hot shot."



Website: http://www.cheriedesues2.com and http://www.cheriedesues.com
Buy Link: https://www.nobleromance.com/BrowseListing.aspx?author=75&p=0
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/cheriedesuesnovels

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/writtenbycherie

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00311U2C6

Twilight Thursday

Please welcome author, Cherie De Sues, into the moonlight. Cherie has prepared a special treat for us about Halloween. Hope you enjoy!

~~~~~

Pagan Pumpkins for Samhain…Halloween.

Samhain, pronounced (sow-in) is the ancient time on October 31st when the veil between the living and the dead is the thinnest. The new pagan wheel calendar has started and the Goddess' time has passed, the Greenman God has awakened for the winter months.

Not all ghosts are friendly or from your own family. Pagans carve gourds, squash and other late harvest fruits to appease the dead who search for Summerlands (Pagan heaven). The angry faces carved into the skin of a pumpkin or other gourds is to send away the evil spirits, the demons and negative energy from their door.

The candle on the inside of a pagan-carved pumpkin can be various colors that represent luck, passion or purity. Using a white candle is always safe and displaying your carved pumpkin on your doorstep will keep your home safe and free of spectral hauntings. If you do pick up a ghost or two on this night, here's a spell for ridding yourself of the pests. Use a pungent incense and black candles to ward them off.

The presence that stands upon the stairs
The unseen hands that move the chairs.
The lights that play across the wall,
The stains that stay, the plates that fall,
The mist, the chill, the wandering scents
This gentle spell must speed them hence.
At midnight, set a table neat,
With cup and plate, and wine and meat,
Invite the ghost to sit and feast,
As any host should urge a guest.
Presently, clear the meal away,
Then open the door and softly say-
"Quick or dead, thou art fed,
Cease to grieve and take thy leave"
Bid him depart but should he remain
Be calm, take heart and feast him again.

If you want to live with the spirits in your home, honor them with frankincense incense, candles and say this chant three times in a mirror with candles reflecting on your face.
Spirits of my home, you shall live,
In every chamber my light I give,
To every corner my breath I send,
This home I share you may attend.

If you enjoy paranormal suspense and ghosts, witches and gypsy's, read the first chapter of my new release. "The Seduction of Simone". Come visit Irish Gypsy's Parlor for pagan articles and first chapters of all my novels and novellas.

Blessings on Samhain,
Blessed Be,
Cherie De Sues
My Websites
http://www.cheriedesues.com/ Irish Gypsy's Parlor
http://www.cheriedesues2.com/ Main Author Website
Read first chapter and buy "The Seduction of Simone" at Noble Romance Publishing
https://www.nobleromance.com/ItemDisplay.aspx?i=157

OR AMAZON
http://www.amazon.com/The-Seduction-of-Simone-ebook/dp/B00433TF5G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1287606040&sr=1-1



Seduction of Simone Blurb:

Simone Devereaux has inherited an estate on the Northern California coast after her Aunt Celeste meets with a sudden, mysterious death. The hot neighbor, Trent Grayson, insists Celeste was murdered, and wants to be more than the man-next-door. When clients arrive to pose for their nude portraits over the weekend, Simone realizes she's inherited more than an estate. Two randy poltergeists enter her dreams for a lusty menage, and a budding serial killer threatens her sanity.

Now her Wiccan mother and gypsy father are coming for a visit, just in time to watch Simone lose her heart . . . and possibly her life.

Read the first chapter here: https://www.nobleromance.com/ItemDisplay.aspx?i=157

Tantalizing Tuesday

Please welcome fellow Noble author, Cherie DeSues. She's a busy woman with a couple of new releases out and another coming in a couple of weeks. Cherie is receiving great reviews for Lacy: A Bad Girl's Revenge and Tales of a Red Moon Clan. To read more about these two already released books, visit Cherie's website: http://www.cheriedesues2.com/

Now, let's get to the good stuff…dragging all of Cherie's deep, dark secrets out of her. *wicked grin* So, sit back, relax, get your favorite drink or even your favorite snack and enjoy getting to know Cherie.

~~~~~

GRACEN: August has few holidays and observances, but one stands out as interesting – Friendship Day. As the 1st is Friendship Day, what will you do (have you done) to celebrate the friendships in your life?

CHERIE: For me, a friendship goes beyond a lunch or quick drink in between my writing and promotions of my work. I try to support the bad days and good days as well. Whether I'm online or face-to-face, I try to support my friends.

GRACEN: Anyone special you’d like to recognize here and now?

CHERIE: Torri is a special friend who acts as my beta readers and gives me more support in my writing than I would have asked. She just lost her very aged mother, who was a sweet and tough soul. I liked her a lot.


GRACEN: Aww…we'll keep Torri in our thoughts as well. Speaking of friends, not all of our friends are human. Many of us have furry friends that enrich our lives in ways we don’t always notice. These friends don’t have to have fur, either, but scales or feathers. We’re talking about our pets, and writers tend to have pets. How many pets do you have, what kinds of pets are they and what are their names?

CHERIE: I devote all my time and energy into Reilly, my Irish terrier who walks me every two hours. Currently he has an interesting summer cut with lines across his furs that make him look like a lion instead of a dog. He loves it, and struts when we're outside. Too funny, but he's a people magnet. I've met some wonderful people in San Diego because of Reilly.

GRACEN: We all need a best friend like this! Before the Dog Whisperer, there was Geena Davis in, The Accidental Tourist, teaching a dog owner how to use positive and negative reinforcement to train his dog. How would you classify your animal handling skills? Are you the whisperer, the challenged animal handler in need of help or are you somewhere in between?

CHERIE: Reilly has the intelligence of an 8-9 year old kid for most things. He acts independently, gets his point across for food, water, trips outside and attention. He's loving and we negotiate for special treats, like longer walks, more cookies, and trips to the dog park/dog store. He prefers people food like veggies, sugar-free cookies and lean meat. I think he trained me.


GRACEN: They’re everywhere, on the Internet, in stores and in catalogues – costumes and pet clothing. How fanatical are you when it comes to clothing your pet? Do you dress your pet in clothing? How about kitty wigs (yes, these apparently do exist)? Any fun or interesting pet accessory or amenity you’d like to share with us?

CHERIE: I used a doggy raincoat on Reilly when San Diego was having some tough weather. But I soon learned that my lack of fear of the water was quickly imitated and he'll dance around in the rain and do his business in the water, thank you very much. I put a wrangler scarf around his neck and he gave me that look…the pathetic one with his head held down in shame when he looked in my full-length wardrobe mirror. I took it off and haven't messed with his natural charm since. We understand one another.


GRACEN: With all the different types of pet foods out there, it’s hard to know what’s really good for your pet or not. Purina has been around forever and continues to produce feed for all kinds of pets and livestock for roughly 100 years. Hill’s Science Diet came along a bit later and others have been popping up ever since. What brand do you use, and how did you come to that decision? (If you don’t have pets, what brand would you feed your pet and why?)

CHERIE: Reilly get a vitamin, and eats pretty much what I do. If I make a tuna fish sandwich, I make one up just for him. He likes variety and taste, dog food has neither in his opinion, he'd rather go without than eat dried nuggets or wet chunks of mystery meat. I've tried and he laid down staring at his bowl for hours. It was really pathetic.


GRACEN: What is the oddest pet you’ve ever had? Why did you choose that pet?

CHERIE: I've had a snake, fish, cats, dogs, horse, wolves, rats, ducks, and birds. They find me and I care for them until they move on or pass on to the next life. All animals have the capacity to touch you in such interesting ways with their humor and charm.


GRACEN: We’ve had our fun now, so let’s put the focus on your writing, Cherie…While there are many genres to choose from, what specifically brought you to romance? Why this genre over the others?

CHERIE: To write a book with sex or romance is incomplete. People have sex, want to have sex, or remember great sex. I write about real people between the ages of twenty-something and older. That's a time where romance is a big part of our lives and I bring in the suspense element to challenge my characters. I enjoy writing paranormal romance because I believe there are things in our world that are strange and unusual. Letting my characters fall in love while they discover the supernatural is a real kick.


GRACEN: I agree! There's nothing like a fantastic paranormal romance! Even though the popularity of the romance genre continues to grow, it’s still not always a highly respected genre. In fact, the recent movie, Letters to Juliet, just received only 2 stars from reviewers even though it’s a heart warming and enjoyable tale about a young woman who finds a note addressed to Juliet and responds to it, 50 years later! It’s worth at least 4/5 stars. What, in your opinion, is the reason for the continued interest in the genre and for the lack of respect it receives?

CHERIE: Fifty years ago, romance was a dime-store book for stay-at-home wives. The "bad rep" comes from a generation that believed these novels were a silly waste of time. With the deep characterization, deep point-of-view and scintillating plots, that's just not true any longer. But the old fossils of romance from the 50's and 60's are still breathing and condemning the genre. I think with the trend of spicier sex, thrillers, paranormal and sci-fi suspense romances, things are turning around. Young women are setting new standards for their choice in reading material and the big five publishers are listening!


GRACEN: A holiday mentioned above is Women’s Equality Day. While it took some tough ladies to endure some pretty crappy situations to get us here, there is still some work to go as women still struggle with equality in the work place. Do these struggles find their ways into your stories, or is equality something that just exists and is accepted? Give us some examples, please!

CHERIE: I'm old enough to remember when men tried to "put me in my place" as a woman. I'm ex-Navy, a doctor and an opinionated woman, and you'll find spit-fire women in my novels. I don't take any crap from a man and neither do my heroines. Men need to prove they are equal to woman in my eyes, not the other way around. When a man is allowed to bed one of my female characters, he's worthy…trust me.


GRACEN: For a writer, inspiration can be found everywhere and in almost anyone, but sometimes specific people, places and events can inspire certain characters, personality traits, events or situations that happen in our stories. In your current story that we’re promoting here today, The Seduction of Simone, did any one particular person, place or event inspire you? If so who/what was it (were they), how did it/they inspire you and how is this inspiration reflected in your story?

CHERIE: Wow, great question. I like the northern part of California and Oregon along the coast and many of my books will be centered there. Sequoia trees, a hundred feet in the air and a turbulent ocean churning ruthlessly on the shoreline. There are many isolated areas along the sea as you drive on the coast, so many things can happen. People interest me, whether they are arguing in public or laughing hysterically at lunch during a girl's day out. I use parts of what I experience and parts of my own personal experiences with people to create characters. My parents can be seen very clearly in "The Seduction of Simone". One is Wiccan the other Gypsy, so pulling them into the novel made sense and gave a realistic view of what living with them during my life was like.


GRACEN: Without giving away anything pertinent to the story, tell us about the hero and heroine (s) of your story. What do they look like? How do they meet (or “did” if this is not the first book with these same characters)? What are their personalities – Are they comical cut-ups, are they serious or are they a mix of the two? Please give us a little bit of dialogue from the story that can illustrate this. (Not much, but just a few lines and from a different section than the main excerpt – Thanks!)

CHERIE: Simone is a younger version of her aunt who's just died tragically by falling over the cliff near her estate. The man-next-door, Trent, is stunned by Simone's presence and her determination to start a new bed and breakfast business to facilitate her art of painting nudes. Two randy Irish ghosts are coming into Simone's dreamstate and the menage's are memorable. Here's a bit of dialogue:

"So question for question—what do you do, Simone?" He picked up his glass and waited for the information, as if her answer would be important.

She could give him the gritty truth or wrap her occupation up in some artsy and glamorous package. Simone decided to hit him between the eyes.

"I paint nudes, couples or single individuals who want art to reflect their love or immortalize their bodies." She kept her gaze on his, and he didn't even a blink. No gasp. Nothing.

"What an interesting vocation. Are your paintings lucrative?" His smile seemed indulgent.

She narrowed her eyes. "I get by. My clients fly in from all over the country, and sometimes I book international clients."

He rolled the wine in his glass and watched the deep-ruby liquid swirl. He was obviously thinking. She sat riveted to hear what he'd say next.

"I'd like to pose. Do you have any openings?"

Trent could have grown horns and a tail and Simone wouldn't have been more shocked. Why would he do this?

The skin rose hot on her cheeks. "I'll . . . um, check my schedule; my clients will start coming next week, but I may be able to fit you in later this month." She chewed her bottom lip and looked at her plate. Her hand trembled as she set the glass down. Maybe she wasn't as worldly as she thought.

GRACEN: The main characters are usually great, but sometimes, secondary and tertiary characters are known to steal the scenes, even if the author did not intend this to happen. Who are the secondary/tertiary characters in your story and what do they look like? What’s unique about them? What is their relationship to the hero/heroine? Have any of these characters gone on to become scene-stealers? If so, who and how did they do it? Is there the possibility for them to get their own story? (Again, please give us a small bit of dialogue to illustrate this – thanks!)

CHERIE: Simone's mother is Wiccan/witch and her father is a gypsy which in "The Seduction of Simone". Both are very useful to help Simone with two randy Irish Poltergeists and a serial killer.

Her father pointed to her mother as Simone slipped her cell back into her pocket.

"Well . . . Mom?"

Her mother handed a journal to her father and he walked to the copier. "I'm going to call the girls, dear."

"What? Are you talking about calling up the spirit world?"

Her mother smiled brazenly.

Simone winced. "Don't we have enough dead people in the house?"

"That's just rude, young lady. Your Great Aunts Agatha and Rose don't like the word dead; they prefer, the living challenged."

Thanks so much for joining us, Cherie! It's a pleasure and a joy to have you here. Best of continued success with your releases and upcoming releases!





BUY LINK

BLURB:

Simone Devereux has inherited an estate on the Northern California coast after her Aunt Celeste meets with a sudden mysterious death. The hot neighbor, Trent Grayson, insists Celeste was murdered and wants to be more than the man-next-door.

When clients arrive to pose for their nude portrait over the weekend, Simone realizes she's inherited more than an estate. As two randy poltergeists enter her dreams for a lusty ménage and a budding serial killer threatens her sanity.

Now her Wiccan mother and Gypsy father are coming for a visit, just in time to watch her lose her heart and quite possibly . . . her life.


EXCERPT:

Simone took a deep breath and blew out slowly, before picking up her fork. The plate he'd prepared for her held homemade ravioli and thick pieces of garlic bread on the edges. The pasta smelled delicious; she couldn't wait for the first bite. She speared a tender piece of ravioli, then brought the cheesy-garlic to her mouth and chewed. She couldn't help the spontaneous hum of pleasure.

Simone chased the remarkable morsel with a sip of wine. The combination curled her toes. "Wow, this is good. What did you say the name of the restaurant was again?" She raised her eyes and found Trent watching her with a lazy smile.

Had he known she'd love the pasta?

"Luigi's, I'll make sure you have a delivery menu next time I'm in town."

He put a forkful in his mouth, then followed with the wine. With a quiet reverence, she proceeded to make a dent in the meal. She hadn't eaten for hours. To be fair to her guest, the food and Cabernet had been a wonderful gesture.

"Thank you for bringing dinner; I didn't realize I was so hungry." The way he gazed at her seemed familiar somehow, as if he may be very comfortable in her presence. "If you hadn't come, I would have been eating a granola bar and drinking bottled water."

Too true, she would have just eaten and gone to bed; there were so many things to do in the morning before the truck arrived.

"I'm grateful you were open to the suggestion; I really didn't know what kind of reception I'd receive. Celeste spoke of you but never mentioned you were her sole heir." He cleared his throat. "All of her photos and papers are in the library. She kept them in a cabinet close to her desk. I can show you after dinner, if you like." His gaze briefly left hers, as he cast a glance toward the library. Simone could feel his sudden grief, then a frown creased the middle of his forehead. "She kept a journal, and I know it's hidden around here somewhere, but I couldn't tell you where to begin looking."

Why would Celeste discuss her will with him? Was he an attorney?

"I'll take you up on that, thank you." Simone sipped more wine to bolster her courage. "So, what do you do for a living, Trent?"

He put his wine glass down and speared ravioli on his fork before answering. "I'm a security consultant for the government. There's an Army base close by where I work on occasion." He paused, put down his fork, then met her eyes. "I mainly use my computers in my office at home."

What did a security consultant and a gypsy tarot-card reader have in common?

"So question for question—what do you do, Simone?" He picked up his glass and waited for the information, as if her answer would be important.

She could give him the gritty truth or wrap her occupation up in some artsy and glamorous package. Simone decided to hit him between the eyes.

"I paint nudes, couples or single individuals who want art to reflect their love or immortalize their bodies." She kept her gaze on his, and he didn't even a blink. No gasp. Nothing.

"What an interesting vocation. Are your paintings lucrative?" His smile seemed indulgent.

She narrowed her eyes. "I get by. My clients fly in from all over the country, and sometimes I book international clients."

He rolled the wine in his glass and watched the deep-ruby liquid swirl. He was obviously thinking. She sat riveted to hear what he'd say next.

"I'd like to pose. Do you have any openings?"

Trent could have grown horns and a tail and Simone wouldn't have been more shocked. Why would he do this?

The skin rose hot on her cheeks. "I'll . . . um, check my schedule; my clients will start coming next week, but I may be able to fit you in later this month." She chewed her bottom lip and looked at her plate. Her hand trembled as she set the glass down. Maybe she wasn't as worldly as she thought.

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SUPERNATURAL SUNDAY

Please welcome author, Cherie De Sues, into the moonlight today. Cherie is a new up and coming author from Noble Romance Publishing and she’s already receiving awesome reviews for her books. She’s received 5 out of 5 from You Gotta Read Reviewers and Book Junkie and 4 ½ lips from Two Lips Reviewers. To learn more about Cherie, visit her website at: http://www.cheriedesues2.com/

Now, sit back, relax and enjoy getting to know Cherie and her characters.

~~~~~

GRACEN: Mother’s Day has become as commercialized as other holidays, but, as far as I can tell, no one seems to mind. Some mothers prefer flowers, some a nice meal, while others prefer gifts like time alone. If you are a mother or wish you were one, what would be your ultimate gift on Mother’s Day?

CHERIE: Nothing makes me happier than to share a meal and a movie with my son, Scott. He's a great cook and will probably make me a great breakfast and dinner on Mother's Day.


GRACEN: Do (would) you prefer your gifts bought or handmade?

CHERIE: From an early age, my son who's 26 now, would make me trinkets, hand-painted pins and paper books of poetry for Mother's Day. I definitely appreciate smaller, more personal items that come from the heart.


GRACEN: If you wrote yourself as a character, who would you be if someone other than yourself?

CHERIE: I always wanted to be Catwoman when I was a kid. I thought her tight black outfit and snarling cat whining was so cool.


GRACEN: Would you have the same name, physical attributes, anatomy or would everything change?

CHERIE: I was born with a good face and athletic body, but I wouldn't mind a little lift, wrinkle removal or to lose a few pounds. LOL


GRACEN: What would your name be and what would your character-self look like? Would you be the heroine or the hero and why?

CHERIE: I guess the character would be Cat Cherie and I'd be the heroine I like heating up the hero in my tight black leather of course.


GRACEN: What about your personality and traits?

CHERIE: I'm outgoing and a good listener. After years and years of being told so, I have to own the behavior. I think the opposite would be a nice switch. Cool, allough, mysterious.


GRACEN: What would you change and what would you keep?

CHERIE: I'd ditch my happy voice and use a deeper, seductive growl. Meow.


GRACEN: What new traits would you give your character-self and why those traits?

CHERIE: Cat Cherie would let other do the laundry and dishes. Purrfect.


GRACEN: When would you exist?

CHERIE: In the 60's when men still opened doors for women.


GRACEN: Would you go back in time, stay in the present, or jump into the future?

CHERIE: I don't think there would be any time that could withstand the enigmatic Cat Cherie!


GRACEN: What time period would you pick and why?

CHERIE: The 60's for sure, I think Cat Cherie would be a big hit!


GRACEN: What type of story would it be (other than historical, contemporary or futuristic)?

CHERIE: Suspense…always a suspense.


GRACEN: Would you have companions (family, friends, pets, children) or would you be the loner-type? What companions would you have and what would they be like?

CHERIE: I'd have a handsome-man sidekick who kept me from straying…


GRACEN: What, if any, special qualities would your pet have if your character-self had one?

CHERIE: Ooooh, I'd have an Ocelot feline. They can be trained, but are wild animals naturally. Very rare pet and I'd want to be able to communicate mentally with the animal. Here kitty, kitty.


GRACEN: What about a love interest(s)?

CHERIE: Oh, yes, please!


GRACEN: What type of relationship(s) would it (they) be?

CHERIE: Well, you know female cats when they're in heat.


GRACEN: Would it (they) be anything similar to what you have now (or want to have), or would you be radical and change things up?

CHERIE: I'm monogamous, but living as half cat/half woman could be very liberating.


GRACEN: What would he/she (they) look/be like?

CHERIE: HOT, ripped, cat-like grace and all man…did I say HOT?


GRACEN: What would it be about him/her (they) that attracts you?

CHERIE: The eyes as they scan over my feline form.


GRACEN: Would he/she (they) have any traits you don’t like or would you make him/her (they) completely perfect?

CHERIE: I would want the companion to be contrary, to have different views of everything. I like contrast and spicy conversations.


GRACEN: What traits and why?

CHERIE: He would need to take charge even if I beat him at his own game. I need the friction.


GRACEN: We’ve had our fun now, so let’s put the focus on your writing, Cherie…
What is your main genre (erotica, erotic romance, romantic suspense, etc.)? What was the draw for you?

CHERIE: Erotic romantic suspense and paranormal suspense. I find writing a straight contemporary difficult and need friction in my characters lives besides their romance issues.


GRACEN: Besides your main genre we just discussed, what elements do you prefer to use in a story and why those elements over others?

CHERIE: I insist on using water, whether it is a lake, sea or river. You'll see my characters are often surrounded by water somewhere in the novel.


GRACEN: Any elements you would never use?

CHERIE: I really can't think of any, I'm well-traveled and often put my characters in different countries, climates and situations.


GRACEN: In your opinion, what author or story had the most influence on your writing?

CHERIE: There is not just one, but a combination. Like the various music I listen to, I read many genres of books. Nora Roberts taught me cadence and characterization. Stephen King taught me suspense and edge of your seat thrills. Dean Koontz taught me mystery and how to keep the reader on the edge of understanding what the solution to the suspense may be.


GRACEN: What about their writing or that story did you find so influential and why?

CHERIE: I dislike clowns intensely, yet "It" by Stephen King is one of my favorite novels. That story combines multiple lives, back stories and terror in the most elaborate way.


GRACEN: While authors and stories can definitely influence us, inspiration can be everywhere for a writer, but sometimes specific people, places and events can inspire certain characters, personality traits or things that happen in our stories. In your current story that we’re promoting here today, Tales of the Red Moon Clan, did any one particular person, place or event inspire you? If so who/what was it (were they), how did it/they inspire you and how is this inspiration reflected in your story?

CHERIE: Yes. The southwest region of Oregon is my favorite place and that's where my story begins. Oregon is a rough, gorgeous forest with angry rivers and mean weather. This was the perfect place to set, Tales of the Red Moon Clan.


GRACEN: Without giving away anything pertinent to the story, tell us about the hero and heroine (s) of your story. What do they look like?

CHERIE: Neol is a Navajo shapeshifting bountyhunter. He's muscular, has cat-like grace and sinfully handsome. Sara is an assistant DA, athletic with green eyes and auburn hair.


GRACEN: How do they meet (or “did” if this is not the first book with these same characters)?

CHERIE: Sara's meeting with the owner of a strip club goes very wrong and Neol intervenes swiftly to save her from certain death.


GRACEN: What are their personalities – Are they comical cut-ups, are they serious or are they a mix of the two?

CHERIE: Neol and Sara are on the run as they fall in love, but humor manages to surface.


GRACEN: Please give us a little bit of dialogue from the story that can illustrate this. (Not much, but just a few lines and from a different section than the main excerpt – Thanks!)

CHERIE:

He sighed. "Look, I'm Neol Pallaton; what's your name?" He didn't need the information, but she needed familiarity—he needed her to trust the man after witnessing the cougar.

Her eyes flicked back to his face. "Sara, Sara Hughes."

"Where are we headed, Sara? Where are you taking us?" He'd been paying attention and she had a specific destination in mind. Her driving didn't feel random.

"My dad's old cabin. It's off a dirt road next to the lake." Her lips trembled as tears glistened in her soft green eyes.

He'd liked those eyes when he’d seen them close up for the first time in the bar. Now they tore at him with the terror they reflected.

"Okay Sara, get us to the lake and I'll figure something out." He smiled. She needed him to be a rock during the turmoil.


GRACEN: The main characters are usually great, but sometimes, secondary and tertiary characters are known to steal the scenes. Who are the secondary/tertiary characters in your story and what do they look like?

CHERIE: Tse is Neol's cousin and they share so many similar qualities…wink, wink. Tse is in the second book of the series coming soon. And then there is Claire, Sara's best friend and assistant at the DA's office.


GRACEN: What’s unique about them?

CHERIE: They reflect what is good about the leading h/h and have unique characteristics of their own. They will share scenes in the next book.


GRACEN: What is their relationship to the hero/heroine?

CHERIE: Both Tse and Claire are the closest people to the h/h.


GRACEN: Have any of these gone on to become scene-stealers?

CHERIE: Oh, sure. Claire is a waif, but tough. Tse is a tough man and yet gentle.


GRACEN: Again, please give us a small bit of dialogue to illustrate this – thanks!

CHERIE:

CLAIRE
"Sara, Mrs. Sampson is on the phone and she wants to make an appointment to see you tomorrow."

The dead seventeen-year-old's mother called every day wanting an update. Sara gave Claire a wilted look.

"I have nothing new on Daniels. Claire, I know she wants some closure to Jessica's death, but I need Daniels for that."

Claire pushed her light blond curls behind an ear and stuck out a stubborn chin. "I know, but she says she has some new information she wants to share with you."

Sara sighed—she hated to ignore the woman. "Okay, tomorrow afternoon."

TSE
Neol moved quickly to answer the knock at his door and caught Tse's scent. His cousin rushed in, almost bowling him over, and Neol shut the door and locked up.

"Any longer and that cop at the next room would have started asking some serious questions." Tse complained.

Neol rolled his shoulders. "Sorry. Just taking care of Sara next door. She's locked in her bedroom, which is right next to this one." He pointed to the open door to the right and Tse nodded. "There are two officers and her boss in the room next to hers on the other side, but they went to sleep a couple of hours ago."

Tse rolled his eyes. "Well, I guess they're going to miss all the action."




BLURB:

Neol Pallaton walks alone through the bowels of society as a bounty hunter, until he shifts into a cougar to save Assistant D.A. Sara Hughes from certain death. A relentless killer keeps them moving by day through the Oregon forest—and by night under the full moon, passion rules their hearts.

The rugged forest is no place for a beautiful and feisty city woman, but Neol’s determined to help Sara piece together why she's being hunted. Sara thought bounty hunters were brutal loners who stretched the law she’s sworn to uphold. But Neol proves that no one can hunt, track and protect her like a Navajo medicine man from the Red Moon Clan.

Neol is willing to anger the spirits to protect his one true mate. Sara will have to bend the law to keep Neol and her alive—and together forever.


EXCERPT:
She sat across from Claire, chewing on her Chinese chicken salad and the meat reminded her of the rabbits Neol caught. She wished she could share more details about Neol’s personality with Claire, but that would mean divulging his secrets and she could never do that to him. How sad he had to hide who he really was when his abilities were as much an integral part of him as eye color or height. But then again, he kept secrets even from her. Like how he’d managed to get in the cabin that first night. The only explanation she could think of was that he’d climbed in through the old doggie door. That thought made her smile.

"What are you grinning about? Whatever it is you need to share, because I'm a wreck right now."

Claire's hands shook as she tucked a stray blonde strand behind her ear. Sara flinched with remorse for thinking only about herself. She searched her mind for something harmless she could share with Claire.

"I was reminiscing about my dad and his old dog and how they liked to hunt every single thing in the forest. They'd bring back deer, rabbits, squirrels, all kinds of prey together. Near the end his dog would hunt alone and my dad didn't even have to leave his chair for a good meal." She laughed at the memory.

Claire smiled. "Wow, I hadn't realized your dad was such a hunter."

"Well, he worked as an accountant by day, but during hunting season? Look out, baby. He was like Daniel Boone. He always came back with whatever he had a taste for, every time."

"Sounds like you're describing Neol; you must see the similarities." Claire snuck in her opinion quietly, visibly more calm as she put a fork into her beef and broccoli.

"Yes, actually I do." Sara bit into a mandarin orange slice. Neol did remind her of her father; she'd noticed the similarity right away when he'd handled her dad's hunting knife. She'd been safe around her dad and now with Neol. Both were strong men and she'd picked up on the characteristics they shared. Warmth coursed through her with the knowledge her father would have approved of Neol.

Buy Link & Website: http://www.cheriedesues2.com/

TWILIGHT THURSDAY

Please welcome Cherie De Sues into the moonlight. Cherie is the author of Tales of the Red Moon Clan and To Love a Thief, which releases sometime this year. Releasing this coming Monday, April 12, is Lacy: A Bad Girl’s Revenge. Cherie has a bunch of WIP, so visit her website to learn more about her.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff…the secret revealing interview. LOL Yeah, you know us moonlighters, we don’t ask for blood, sweat and secrets, but we should. ;-) In honor of April 15th being tax day, we’re asking 15 questions this month. So, we hope you enjoy learning about Cherie, a new and upcoming author with a flair for writing.

~~~~~

GRACEN: Speaking of taxes, are you’re taxes finished, or do you procrastinate with them? Do you do them yourself or do you have a taxman do them for you?

CHERIE: I used to do them myself until the IRS smacked my nose like a bad puppy and found a $1,000 error on my part. I let a tax expert get me through the maze of tax laws now.


GRACEN: As it says, “April showers bring May flowers”. What flowers do you hope to see the first thing in spring?

CHERIE: I'm a white flower girl, jasmine or gardenia bring a smile every time. I adore the fragrances and wear them as perfume.


GRACEN: Do you plant your own garden? Why or why not and where is it (are they) located? What type(s) will it (they) be and where is it (are they) located on your property?

CHERIE: Most of my life I've grown a salsa garden with fresh peppers, tomatoes and cilantro. This year I'll share a garden with other enthusiasts in my condominium complex near the ocean in San Diego.


GRACEN: Do you prefer plants or seeds? Does it matter where you get them, or do you have a favorite place to go? What’s the name of the place and why do you prefer there over other places?

CHERIE: Sometimes seeds, sometimes plants depending on what time of the year I plant. Fresh seeds are important and in San Diego we have a nursery that caters to natural growing gardens.


GRACEN: What will you plant (or have already planted) this year and why?

CHERIE: We've had strange weather with a recent 7.2 earthquake in Mexicali, Mexican close by, floods from heavy rain and revolving hot & cold days. As a group, we hope to plant at the end of April.


GRACEN: Do you have any plants that are must haves for your garden, ones that it just won’t be complete without?

CHERIE: Fresh tomatoes that taste and smell like fruit is a must for me when I make a salad. I plan to plant three varieties and sizes for summer/fall eating.


GRACEN: Now, let’s get to your writing, Cherie…What is your main genre (erotica, erotic romance, romantic suspense, etc.)? What was the draw for you?

CHERIE: Romantic suspense & paranormal. I am drawn to the difficulties of falling in love when your life or the life of someone you care about is in jeopardy. The challenges are exponential for lovers and I really enjoy the ride.


GRACEN: Besides your main genre we just discussed, what elements do you prefer to use in a story and why those elements over others?

CHERIE: I do a great deal of research for each novel, novella or short story. I want the real flavor of danger, the correct verbiage and settings for my characters to come alive. I have traveled a great deal and place my characters in different parts of the U.S. or abroad. I plan to introduce pets now that I have an Irish terrier pup. I am very attached to and believe my readers feel the same way with their own pets.


GRACEN: Do you prefer red roses or black roses? If so, does that show in your writing? If so, how? If roses aren’t your style, what flowers are? Do they influence your writing? If so, how?

CHERIE: I'm a fan of white flowers, like gardenias and jasmine. A single flower means more to me personally than a dozen roses. I do reflect my preferences in novels and Lacy: A Bad Girl's Romance, the novel following Lacy: A Bad Girl's Revenge coming out next week reflects the same feelings.


GRACEN: The jury’s still out on this question, so we’re still asking it! - Who decides what you write about, you or your muse? What kind of influence do you have over your story, or is the muse always the one planting the seeds? How do you cultivate those seeds regardless of who plants them?

CHERIE: My muse and I have an understanding. She sits out the editing process and thinks about my next projects as I do the mundane. My muse helps me understand my characters by encouraging me to let go of the reins and experience life through the eyes of my hero and heroine.


GRACEN: In your opinion, what author had the most influence on your writing? What about their writing did you find so influential and why?

CHERIE: I have read every genre and feel that my writing is influenced by style over any one author. I appreciate the cadence of Nora Roberts novels, the tension in Dean Koontz novels and the depth of Stephen King novels. Put them in a bowl, mix furiously and you'll find my style.


GRACEN: While authors can definitely influence us, inspiration can be everywhere for a writer, but specific people, places and events can inspire certain characters, personality traits or things that happen in our stories. In your current story that we’re promoting here today, Lacy: A Bad Girl's Revenge, did any one particular person, place or event inspire you? If so who/what was it (were they), how did it/they inspire you and how is this inspiration reflected in your story?

CHERIE: I have family in Boston and can trace my roots back to Ireland. Lacy is an enforcer for the Irish Mob in Boston and hunts down the last of her father's murderers. A relative that shall remain anonymous had "dealings" with the Irish Mob and shared them with me. Lacy is a compile of individuals I've met during my life, she's a functioning sociopath with a great education and beauty. A deadly combination that opens doors for her and she takes advantage of every part of her skills.


GRACEN: Without giving away anything pertinent to the story, tell us about the hero and heroine (s) of your story. What do they look like? How do they meet (or “did” if this is a second book with these same characters)? What are their personalities – Are they comical cut-ups, are they serious or are they a mix of the two? Please give us a little bit of dialogue from the story that can illustrate this. (Not much, but just a few lines and from a different section than the main excerpt – Thanks!)

CHERIE: Dr. Josh Davenport, is tall, muscular and has mocha eyes and a bright smile. Lacy Hennessey is a fair blonde with blue eyes and legs that go all the way up. When Josh and Lacy meet at the Colorado ski resort, sparks fly for both of them. Josh eagerly invites Lacy to sleep at his place without realizing he will be used as an alibi.

"Hello again. Miss me?" Lacy trailed her nails across his jaw. "Please, let me buy you dinner in the restaurant down the hall. Have you eaten this evening?"

Josh shook his head. "No, just canapés and I like the steaks here."

"Then shall we go?" Lacy stood back for him to rise.

Feeling like a puppet on the strings of a woman with a purpose, Josh rose and followed her. His eyes floated to her butt while she swayed toward one of the darkest booths in the restaurant. Lacy slid along the burgundy leather to the middle and he slipped in beside her. Her hand went to his thigh and Josh went rock hard at the expression in her icy blue eyes.

"You're using me, Lacy." Josh wanted the bullshit up front, no lies between them. If Lacy wanted a bed to sleep in and a man to fuck, she'd come to the right place; only he had a nauseating feeling she was playing for far higher stakes and he didn't want to be collateral damage.

"Smart, sexy and my physical type." Her hand went between his thighs and squeezed his groin. "I plan to work you hard tonight, but you'll wake in the morning with fond memories of me."


GRACEN: The main characters are usually great, but sometimes, secondary and tertiary characters are known to steal the scenes. Who are the secondary/tertiary characters in your story and what do they look like? What’s unique about them? What is their relationship to the hero/heroine? Have any of these gone on to become scene-stealers? If so, who and how did they do it? (Again, please give us a small bit of dialogue to illustrate this – thanks!)

CHERIE: There are moments during this short story that a pivotal and the secondary characters shine.

"Hey, do you want another?" A curly, bleached mop of a woman leaned down to take the shot glass.

"Not yet. Do you know Tanner, Bunny?" The nametag said Bunny, but the forty-something woman resembled road kill. Lacy pulled out a twenty and lifted a brow. "The man gave me the clap."

The woman grinned with crooked teeth, snatched the money and shook her head. "Damn, that man gets more sex than he has a right. Saw him last night, but he hasn't come in again since Beaver punched him for steppin' on his new boots."

"Know where he'd be this evening?" Lacy forced a laugh at the server's story, wishing Beaver had hit him harder.

"Try the Lakeside Hotel and bar on Eighth Street, yesterday Tanner bragged he had a meeting for a big job." She winked at Lacy. "Slap him twice, honey, Tanner gave me the same crap last spring."

BLURB:

Lacy Hennessey is hunting the last man linked to an ambush that led to her father's death. As an heir to her father's role as the enforcer for the Irish Mob in Boston, Lacy is armed and dangerous when she arrives in a small Colorado resort.

Dr. Josh Davenport missed his flight for a little R & R after an avalanche blocks the road. At the Hotel bar, Lacy easily manipulates Josh into offering her a place to sleep for the night. But Josh is aware Lacy isn't just another gorgeous blonde in a red dress with legs that go all the way up.

Lacy enjoys Josh's company and his bed, but business in business when she leaves his arms to face the man who killed her father. And if Josh makes any more connections about her real identity, Lacy may have to add him to her list.


EXCERPT:

Curvy, blonde and gorgeous slinked into the bar, as Josh took in class with a capital C. With heels, she looked liked an Amazon—tall, athletic and with a narrow waist. The gods had sent this woman to him; somehow, he'd done something right in his life and she was his reward. Blue eyes, creamy skin and a red dress that made his heart skip beats. He followed her every sinuous move until she chose a chair up against the back wall and glanced around the room.

The woman searched for someone and Josh hoped like hell that would be him. Seconds later, their eyes met and her warm smile struck a match to his groin. He slid off the barstool with his drink and headed in her direction.

As he neared, the goddess lifted her eyes once more to his and a chill ran along his spine. He hadn't felt anything like that since his residency under Dr. Spellman. The man had been a predator with all new doctors. Josh shook off the bad memories.

"I'm Josh Davenport, may I sit with you?"

Red lips parted with a high-wattage smile against straight white teeth. "Please."
Josh let his body relax in the leatherback chair and set his drink on the low, round table between them.

"Would you like a drink?"

"A glass of Cabernet would be great."

He smiled and turned, giving a couple of hand signals to Kenny then turned back. A small frown marred a perfect face, but she didn't ask how he'd done his famous trick. Disappointed, he rubbed his jaw; she had an uncanny way of making him feel uncomfortable when she didn't react as he expected. This woman bore scrutiny, both mental and physical he decided as he subconsciously licked his teeth for any leftover canapé.

"What's your name?"

She took a deep breath and the low cut bodice of her snug dress swelled then shrank with the exhalation. The cleavage of her breasts beckoned and he forced himself to stay connected with her deep blue eyes. She hadn't blinked and neither had he.

"Lacy." She licked her lips provocatively and crossed her long legs.

~~~~~

Cherie's website: http://www.cheriedesues2.com/
Cherie's Publisher: https://www.nobleromance.com/ItemDisplay.aspx?i=102