The Perfect Proposition?

On The Second Day of Pre-Release...the author gave to me...The Perfect Proposition! Maybe...

How would you approach a man you find exceedingly attractive, intelligent and downright sexy, especially if your sole purpose was to get him into bed? Would you take the stealth approach, making your way with studied nonchalance around the room until you’re within range, strike up innocuous conversation and then reel him in with your wit, charm and the come-hither look in your eyes? Or would you hit the dance floor and put on a show, telling him with sultry glances it’s all for him?

The heroine in my upcoming release, Jaguar in the Sun, book four in the Unveiled Seductions series, available December 4, 2013, doesn’t have time for all that. She’s on a strict timetable, and knows it’s now or never if she wants to get a taste of Xbal Montegro, not to mention experience his atraspa, a special type of sex magic that takes centuries to master.

Cassie’s very clear-sighted about the whole thing:

Since she’d been distracted when she left the temple, she’d forgotten to throw up a shield and the drizzle had turned her previously sleek hair into a mass of waves but she didn’t care. It wasn’t a big deal, just a small detail and one she didn’t think would really matter. In her experience a man didn’t care that much about how a woman’s hair looked when she was propositioning him.

And she’s decided on the direct approach… very direct. At his office, this is the beginning of her proposition:

Cassie folded her hands on her lap and crossed her legs, not bothering to adjust the edges of her skirt when they fell open to mid-thigh. Xbal’s gaze remained on her face. A little disappointing but not surprising. This was a man who didn’t ogle or stare, was as cool as the proverbial cucumber.

“Another of your brainwaves for a concert at the Midnight Café, needing to be put together at a moment’s notice?”

Amusement added another layer of richness to his voice and Cassie shifted, glancing down at her hands in case the heat of rising desire showed in her eyes.

“You could say that, I guess, although I will tell you I’ve put a great deal of thought into this idea.” She couldn’t help the answering laughter in her tone, knowing what she was about to say. Looking at him through half-lowered lids, wanting to see his reaction, she said, “I actually came by to see if you’d be interested in having sex with me today.”

Wow. Not sure I’d be able to be so bold, but there’s a really good reason why she doesn’t have time to shilly-shally. And I guess you’re wondering how she follows that up, and whether Xbal takes her up on the offer or not. Let’s just say his reaction isn’t quite what she’s expecting, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing!

What would your perfect proposition be? I’d love to hear, so tell me in the comments!

Tomorrow I’ll be at the Darker Temptations blog, giving you a little peek more of Jaguar in the Sun, including the official excerpt, which will give you an idea of Xbal’s reaction to Cassie’s proposition and where it leads. And for the next ten days I’ll be here, there and everywhere on my Twelve Days of Pre-Release. Watch out for me, and say hi!

Anya Richards

Journeys Through Seduction

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Jaguar In The Sun Blurb:

Jaguar in the Sun

Anya Richards

Book four in the Unveiled Seductions series.

Cassandra Solinar has a bucket list and jaguar god Xbal Montegro is on it. About to undergo an essential rite she won’t survive, she wants to wring every ounce of pleasure out of the time left. Including discovering if Xbal’s sex magic technique is as good as rumored.

It’s no hardship for Xbal to accept Cassandra’s invitation for one erotic encounter, but far more difficult to let her go once he gets a taste of the explosive passion between them. Now he’s determined to hold on to her, no matter what.

Cassie can’t tell Xbal the truth about what she’s about to do. It’s illegal, but without her death the entire world will perish. It’s a job she’s been preparing for from birth, but the loss will be greater now. For in Xbal she finds a soul-deep connection she doesn’t want to lose, and the one thing she made a point of not putting on her bucket list—love.

A Romantica® paranormal erotic romance from Ellora’s Cave

I am Leo, Hear me Snore

So, I had to look up exactly what my personality, as a Leo, is supposed to be and all I can say is I want to be that when I grow up. Apparently I’m supposed to be a confident, courageous and ambitious attention whore, who likes to control everything, live large and dispense that largess to all my friends. I should be constantly craving other people’s company and work well in groups, of which (of course) I am in control of, and never, ever take orders. If, for some strange reason, I find my life falling into a routine I will create excitement and drama of my own…

Yeah…that all sounds far to energetic for me.

I don’t know. I guess maybe true aficionados would tell me that the description I looked at was just a guide, and my real Leo personality depends on how the planets were aligned at the moment I was born. And, you know what? I’m quite open to the possibility. I have no clue how the universe really works, so who am I to say it’s all hooey? But there is one thing I don’t think horoscopes can take into consideration, and that’s how a person is raised and their experiences during their formative years. How can that not have an impact on how a person’s character develops?

Anyway, the truth is, if I’m a lion I’m that sleepy one lying under a rock, wondering if anyone else is going after antelopes today, rather than the lioness leading the hunt. I’m more the Cowardly Lion than this one:

As for those control issues… my friends will tell you one of my favorite sayings (said with my Jamaican accent) is, “Anyting dat yuh like.” And I actually mean it! If there’s drama going down, I don’t mind watching, but I try very, very hard not to create any. Although with my friends I feel safe to throw the occasional hissy-fit, I also don’t like to do anything too Diva-ish in public. I will swing my claws in defense of those I love, but it has to be a dire situation, worthy of the exertion!

If I had that wad of cash Leos are supposed to have (because we love swag, apparently) I certainly would share it with my friends, but guys, don’t hold your breath waiting for me to get rich. Remember, I’m more like this…

…than like this…

And of course, this is just how I see myself. One thing I’ve learned is that perception is everything, and each of us sees things from a different angle. But I still say, “I am Leo, hear me snore!”

Love Signs

I'm an Aquarian and proud of it. Sure we are *unique* a little bit odd and can be way out there at times. But that's what makes the Aquarian so special. I'm told that I see things differently or that someone had never thought about a possibility until I mentioned it. I think it can be hard for others to connect with us and us with them. Even though we are very social, we tend to be somewhat inner focused. As they say, still waters. So when you do connect with someone or they "get you" you hang on to them with all your might.

 

Aquarius is not an astrological sign of duality, consequently the Water Bearers were not, like Sag, born under the influence of a "double" sign, although they're sometimes even more contrary and contradictory than the Archers. Two sides aren't really enough for the Uranus-ruled men and women. It's easy to be-come bored, just knocking around with two of yourself. The typical Aquarian has a dozen or so personalities. It would be mundane to possess only a couple, and Aquarius is a sign which is in no way related to the mundane. Water Bearers defy mediocrity (and hate hypocrisy), being more closely related to the marvelous, to all magic and madness. They are, in a word, different.

  ~~~Goodman

It's also said that Aquarians are the most passionate lovers. Did you just snort your drink through your nose on that one? Really, can those computer analytical, black and white type Aquarians be passionate? Oh yes, once you get past all that fluff and stuff. You're in for a real treat.

I guess being an Air sign suits us well. But don't ever think we're 'air heads' uh-uh. I'm in a relationship with a Fire sign, a Sag. We fit well. Yes, his fire heats up my air and sometimes it can be very explosive. We don't fight often but when we do...well no need to elaborate. I'm lucky his Sag ways accept my Aquarian ways.

Love. Sun signs. Love Signs. 


Love is man's and woman's deepest need. It's not the threat of illness or poverty that crushes the human spirit, but the fear that there is no one who truly cares - no one who really understands. We all reach desperately for love, no matter how healthy, wealthy or wise we may be, because the alternative is loneliness
  ~~~Goodman

Perhaps my love of purple can be blamed on my stone. Amethyst. 

I love flowers. All kinds of them, but the orchid fascinates me...and it is my flower. And, it's purple too. I also find it a very sensual flower.

Have you ever read Linda Goodman Love Signs? It's a wonderful book that gives insight into the compatibility of each star sign.  You can brows her book at this link

 ~~~

Watch for Four For the Show, coming from Ellora's Cave. Another book set in Desire After Dark, an upscale sex club. Plus One, the first book, is available now. Bit of exciting news, my recent contract with Harlequin Digital for my erotic menage She Wants It with an anticipated release date of Summer 2014! Keep your ear to the tracks.

 

You can find me at:

www.cristalryder.com

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The Cabal of Hotness

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I'm a taurus... and that ain't no bull... wait, it is!

I love the stuff websites and books say about the astrological signs. I mean, come on... you can't put all these generalizations on something as silly as a cluster of starts and expect me to believe... hm, wait... does that really say I'm a cuddler?


Taurus loves the rewards of the game. Think physical pleasures and material goods, for those born under this sign revel in delicious excess. They are also a tactile lot, enjoying a tender, even sensual, touch. Taurus adores comfort and likes being surrounded by pleasing, soothing things. Along these lines, they also favor a good meal and a fine wine. The good life in all its guises, whether it's the arts or art of their own making (yes, these folks are artistic as well), is heaven on Earth to the Taurus-born. (from http://www.astrology.com/taurus-sun-sign-zodiac-signs/2-d-d-66950)

Holy crap, okay so many generalizations are sometimes right. I mean yeah, that's pretty much me. Other than the whole excess thing. But have you seen me? Good meals and wine. Yep. 

Here's more... and I'm starting to think these people interviewed me. Just sayin':

It's the Bull that serves as the Taurus's mascot, and along with that comes the expectation that these folks are bull-headed and stubborn. Yes, they are. They simply want to get things done, and it's that steady, dogged persistence that winds up being viewed as stubbornness. Bulls are actually among the most practical and reliable members of the zodiac, and they are happy to plod along, as it were, in pursuit of their goals. The good news for Bulls is that once they get to the finish line, they'll swaddle themselves in material goods. A self-indulgent beast? Perhaps, but if you toiled as laboriously as these folks do, you'd need some goodies, too.

So, okay, maybe I'm a Taurus through and through. Stubborn, a planner, touchy-feely... Damn it, I hate it when non-science is right! :P

Who else is a Taurus? Do you agree with the sign's overview?

Aries Baby!

ARIES BABY!

 

 March 21 - April 19

 

 

 

Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, and that's pretty much how those born under this sign see themselves: first.

Yeah baby! We're first because we're the very best.

 

Aries are the leaders of the pack, first in line to get things going. Whether or not everything gets done is another question altogether, for an Aries prefers to initiate rather than to complete.

How did they know that I have a million things that I want to get done?

 

Aries is a bundle of energy and dynamism, kind of like a Pied Piper, leading people along with its charm and charisma. The dawning of a new day -- and all of its possibilities -- is pure bliss to an Aries.

Okay, sooooo I'm not sure with this one. I don't like people following me. It gives me the creeps. And the dawning of a new day? Hell, I still have stuff from this day that I didn't finish.

 The symbol of Aries is the Ram, and that's both good and bad news. Impulsive Aries might be tempted to ram their ideas down everyone's throats without even bothering to ask if they want to know.

Yes, yes. My ideas are the best. Even if I have to paint you a picture and make-up a song to get you to see reason. I will and you will. Why? Because I know best--about everything.

 

You're not likely to convince the Ram to soften up; these folks are blunt and to the point.

I've been told that I don't have a filter. Why would I need one?

 

Much of Aries' drive to compete and to win comes from its Cardinal Quality. Cardinal Signs love to get things going, and Aries exemplifies this even better than Cancer, Libra or Capricorn.

Did you read that? We exemplify and blah, blah, blah. We're better than those other signs.

Taking a peek at Roman mythology, we find that Mars was the God of War. Our man Mars was unafraid to do battle, and much the same can be said for Aries. These folks are bold, aggressive and courageous. They can summon up the inner strength required to take on most anyone, and they'll probably win. Aries do not lack energy or vitality, and they can stay in the game longer than most anyone else. Now that's a winning edge.

You know what my takeaway from this is? If you want a war call an Aries.

 

Sadly, Aries won't usually be around for the final victory (defeat? never). These folks will more than likely have bolted to the next project before the first one is done.

Humph. I wouldn't say bolt. I would say, "Have moved on."

Aries love physicality, so they won't sit on the sidelines for long, if at all.

Huh? What? No sitting on the sidelines? Are we talking about Aries? I like to sit.

 

Making things happen is what it's all about to these folks. Aries are also unafraid of stepping onto new terrain. The challenge inherent in taking on the unknown is heaven on Earth for Rams.

Great, now back to stuff that I know about. I can take on the world and am not afraid to do it! Who's with me!

 

Oh, and on the subject of arguing, it's the Ram who will have the last word, so save your breath.

Of course! My hubby knows best. I can wake him up in the middle of the night to get the last word in.

 Aries plays as hard as they work. These folks are happiest in a spirited soccer match or engaging in the martial arts.

Sure. In my head.

 

The Ram's color is bright red, a sure sign of the fire that breathes within.

Umm, black. I'm breathing black from within.

 The great strength of the Aries-born is in their initiative, courage and determination. These folks love to get things going and are fearless along the way. Their dynamism and competitive spirit add considerably to any of their endeavors.

Yes! All Aries are great. We'll one day take over the world. Now where are my fluffy house shoes?

Information taken from: http://www.astrology.com/aries-sun-sign-zodiac-signs/2-d-d-66918

My life as a Virgo...

This month we're talking about astrological signs. Mine is Virgo, and I always love these descriptions, because really, can't anyone reading this think, "Hey, that sounds like me!". Anyhoo, I pulled this from http://www.gotohoroscope.com/virgo-meanings.html so let's see how true it is!

The emblem of Virgo, a virgin holding sheaves of wheat in her hands symbolizes wisdom, garnered in the fields of experience. Like the true virgin, most Virgos are shy and, like a virgin tend to wait to give herself to the perfect lover, Virgo is also idealistic. 

Wellll.....I can be shy, believe it or not. As to the other part. *cough* Not so much. And I don't think I've been idealistic a day in my life.

With a Mercury as the ruling planet, people born under this sign are quick thinking and observant. People who were born in this period are as a rule generally successful in life. They have keen, good intellects, are very discriminating about those with whom they associate, and in all business matters they have good judgment, and are not easily imposed upon or deceived. 

I am quick thinking. It sometimes seems to drive those around me nuts. Easily deceived - I'd agree with that. Mostly because even though I'm optimistic, I'm also cynical.
They are usually materialistic in their views of life, and analyze and reason everything from their own way of thinking outwards. These people are attracted to only that knowledge that can be applied usefully. They will happily share this information with anyone, if it confirms their own usefulness in the world, and brings them eagerly out of their shells. 

Analytical? Me? Surely, you jest. *looks around for lightning to strike me down*

These people can become good literary critics, being quick to see the weak points. They are extremely fond of harmony in their surroundings, have excellent taste about their house and dress, and always want things in good taste, and elegant. 

Hey look! Maybe I missed my calling. Perhaps instead of writing the books I should be reviewing them. Nah, that doesn't sound like as much fun. And why, thank you for the complement about my excellent taste and natural elegance. ;-)

Virgos are usually fastidious about their personal appearance, have a great respect for rank and position, and are great supporters of the law and the law's decisions. They usually develop this skill to improve themselves and their surroundings as they place great pride in tangible achievements. These people may spend part of their lives heading off on detours and then suddenly emerge as someone with a remarkable sense of direction. They can adjust easily to change once they find a way of fitting the new situation into their routine. 

Considering I have an MBA and have re-made myself over career-wise three times, I'll buy this stuff.

They are inclined to become wrapped up in themselves and their own ideas, and often become selfish in the close pursuit of their aims. 

Doesn't everybody become wrapped up in themselves?

These people are more capable of going to extremes in good and evil than any other type. 

Surely I fall under the category of good, right? Right? *puts Mistress Hotness whip behind my back*

To people born under this sign love is not dramatic, emotional, or sentimental. Love for them is devotion and will include love of family, friends, and those less fortunate than he or she. There is no pretense involved in how they act or what they say. Marriage is a major commitment; they value their union as both a love relationship and a working partnership. A warm relationship brings out the best in anyone born under this sign because basically they are kind, devoted and very loyal. 

This makes us sound like lap dogs.

Disappointment, however, can harden them into a cynic and a skeptic. Virgos consequently become quite critical with themselves as well as with circumstances, due to the effect of such disappointments on a sensitive and discriminating nature.

Okay, this one, I have to admit, is definitely true. I'm aware I can be quite critical. Sometimes I'm not nice or polite in my criticism, either. But I do try to keep others' feelings in mind.

Friends

People born under this sign have difficulty making friends. They won't make the first step until they feel absolutely comfortable with this people. Yet when they do make the effort, these people are capable of achieving extraordinary things.

I think the cynical nature of my sign has something to do with this, but I will say that I don't have a big circle of true friends. I don't consider this something I need to change in my life, either.

So there you have it. A snapshot of my supposedly personality...Are you a Virgo? Do you know someone (besides me) who is? What do you think of this assessment?