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Captivating and Steamy
Love at the Evening Ball follows a refined Southern gentleman who spots an enchanting woman across the ballroom floor, igniting a spark of chemistry that quickly blossoms into passionate flames. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The setup was inspired by the history of my family and hometown. Being from Shreveport, our family once owned and worked on a plantation, described as the one that is brought to life in Love at the Evening Ball.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
I wanted to make this captivating and steamy. I wanted to do it in such a way as to create excitement in the reader, but not so graphic as to push away.
What draws you to the Southern culture and makes it ripe for you to write such a great erotic romance story in it?
I was born, raised in, and now live in the “deep” South. My ancestors were a mix of both enslaver and enslaved, with relationships that defy the mainstream norm. Terry’s outfit carried hints of the Confederate Gray, while Hiyeon’s ball dress would be typical of Southern belles of the era.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I am currently working on a biography of a 3rd great-grandfather of mine. He is a Civil War Veteran. I have already published one similar on a 3rd great-grandfather. While history is my genre, I may author another title in a Steamy Southern Nights series, as I enjoyed jumping into a new genre and writing Love at the Evening Ball!
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What begins as a polite invitation soon ignites into a night of steamy indulgence, playful teasing, and intimate vulnerability. With lush descriptions and fiery encounters, Love at the Evening Ball invites you into a world of southern romance where every touch lingers, every look promises more, and surrender becomes the sweetest escape. For lovers of sensual storytelling and rich atmosphere, this tale is a passionate celebration of connection, pleasure, and magic of candlelit encounters.
Love at the Evening Ball
Tony T. Williams’ Love at the Evening Ball is a heady mix of Southern gothic charm and unapologetic erotic fantasy. It begins with the grandeur of an old plantation house, bathed in moonlight and memory, before sweeping the reader into a whirlwind of romance and desire. What starts as an elegant evening gathering quickly turns into an intimate story of two strangers who find themselves caught in the heat of attraction, surrendering to passion with abandon. The setting is rich, the atmosphere lush, and the story wastes no time in plunging into the intensity of seduction.
The heart of the story rests on Terry and Hiyeon. Terry comes across as confident and deeply passionate, a man who knows what he wants and isn’t shy about showing it. Hiyeon, on the other hand, radiates playfulness and charm, mixing sweetness with a daring streak that makes her irresistible. When they come together, the chemistry is undeniable. Their relationship is a whirlwind of flirtation, teasing, and raw attraction, and it’s this dynamic that fuels the book’s energy and keeps the reader hooked.
The writing is bold in a way that instantly grabs attention. The dialogue between Terry and Hiyeon brims with playful energy, sometimes exaggerated, yet always filled with a reckless joy that lights up the page. The descriptive detail, especially in the more intimate scenes, is immersive and unrelenting, sweeping me into the moment so completely that I couldn’t look away. The intensity left little room to pause, yet that constant surge of energy kept me hooked, daring me to keep turning pages with anticipation.
There were also moments where I found myself smiling at the sheer audacity of it all. The way the author leaned into every sigh, every shiver, every whispered word made the story feel like it knew exactly what it wanted to be. No pretense, no hesitation, just raw desire painted across the page. I felt caught between being swept away and slightly overwhelmed, but that tension was its own kind of thrill. It reminded me that reading, like love, isn’t always neat or tidy. Sometimes it’s messy, wild, and unforgettable.
Love at the Evening Ball isn’t a book for the faint of heart. It’s for readers who crave romance with a heavy dose of heat, for those who want their stories draped in silk and sweat rather than subtlety. If you enjoy tales that are unabashedly sensual, where every touch and glance is amplified to a fever pitch, this book will deliver. It’s daring, it’s steamy, and it knows exactly who it’s written for.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0F4Z98L47
A Day Between Destinies: A Romantic Journey Through Vienna and Paris
Mary Alcock’s A Day Between Destinies is a tender, slow-burning romance set against the dreamy backdrop of Vienna. It follows two strangers, Luke and Isabelle, who meet by chance on a train and end up spending a single, unforgettable day together. What starts with a shared laugh over a runaway ice cream cone becomes a deeply emotional journey through music, art, vulnerability, and connection. The entire novel plays out over the course of one day, but the emotional depth and richness of their fleeting moments feel expansive, like a lifetime compressed into hours.
I was surprised by how quickly the story drew me in. The opening chapter, in particular, was immediately engaging. The moment a young boy accidentally sends his ice cream flying into the face of an impeccably dressed German woman is both humorous and vividly cinematic, chaotic in a way that feels authentic rather than exaggerated. Yet, it’s the quiet moment that follows, when Luke and Isabelle exchange a glance and a subtle, knowing smile, that signals the deeper emotional thread of the narrative. The dialogue throughout is crisp and engaging, witty without feeling overly constructed, and warm without tipping into sentimentality. Alcock demonstrates a keen talent for creating characters who feel genuine, and the natural rhythm of their connection gives the story an undeniable charm.
What stood out most for me was how Alcock made the setting an active part of the story. Vienna isn’t just a backdrop, it’s alive. From the glow of streetlights on cobblestones to the hush of a late-night café, every detail adds atmosphere and texture. When Luke and Isabelle share apple strudel after dinner, it’s not just about dessert; it’s about emotional intimacy, about savoring the moment. And then there’s the kiss by the river that felt sincere, tentative, and perfectly timed.
Alcock handles themes of hesitation, fear, and self-doubt with remarkable sensitivity. Isabelle’s quiet confession, “I don’t want to ruin what we have by trying to force it into something it’s not,” strikes a deeply authentic chord. It reflects a universal vulnerability: the apprehension that something precious might be diminished by the weight of expectation. Luke’s response is understated yet deeply reassuring: “Maybe the magic doesn’t have to fade. Maybe it’s something we carry with us.” In that exchange, Alcock captures the emotional complexity of tentative hope, and it becomes clear why their connection is so compelling.
By the end, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to either of them. This book isn’t about grand gestures or over-the-top declarations. It’s about how a single day, when truly lived, can change everything. It’s hopeful without being naïve, romantic without being cheesy. If you’ve ever had a “what if” moment that stayed with you longer than you expected, this book is going to tug at your heart.
I’d recommend A Day Between Destinies to fans of cozy, character-driven romance and travelers at heart. It’s for anyone who believes that sometimes, all it takes is one day to change your entire path.
Pages: 93 | ASIN : B0DWD2LV2R
Spirituality Behind True Love
Shilpa’s Blue Crayon follows a down-to-earth African American woman in her thirties who, while devoted to her art and deeply committed to those she holds dear, longs for the love of a husband and children she has never known. What inspired the setup of your story?
I wanted to write a love story that displayed lots of mystery and suspense that would include a surprise ending. Most love stories are extremely predictable and not always true to real life. I wanted to show the insecurities that many women have about their looks, careers, love life, etc. But I also wanted to show when it comes to those you love, most women would do whatever it takes to protect their family and friends with or without a man. That protecting those you care about comes first, even when your safety is at risk. Shilpa embodies many women that I know personally who are strong and successful even when they don’t realize it. And, I truly wanted the reader to take this roller coaster ride with Shilpa until she found love and family even when she wasn’t looking for it. Of course, I’m an African American woman myself, retired, and I’m able to provide the Black perspective of life’s challenges.
The supporting characters in this novel, I felt, were intriguing and well-developed. Who was your favorite character to write for?
My favorite characters are Jacob (Shilpa’s husband); and Winnie/Vida (Shilpa’s best friends) because they display their love, loyalty, and commitment even when hard truths have to be discussed. Jacob is in an interracial marriage with Shilpa and I wanted to show his love for his wife that transcends boundaries, cultures, and societies. How he truly loved his wife without condition, and how they were on the same page with raising their children. Jacob understood Shilpa’s insecurities and provided patience to help her work through them. He helped her find her strength. Winnie and Vida (from both worlds) are what best friends embody (loyalty, truth, compassion, kindness, trustworthiness, and honesty). I have life-long best friends like this so it was very easy to write about Winnie and Vida. The best way to do all this is for Shilpa to be trapped in two worlds until she found the truth about her life.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
What love should be between a man and woman and the spirituality behind true love; love of friendship; the beauty of this world with explanations of the color blue and its importance in our lives; racism, diversity, and multiculturalism; passing for white and what that means; money is not important unless you can use it to serve others; and gaining your power and strength when you need it most.
What is the next novel that you are working on and when will that be available?
My first book, published in March 2024, is called “Kevin and KatheRINe in the Next Lifetime.” I believe it to be a beautiful love story. Personal and professional reviews are amazing. This book displays CC Lane’s brand demonstrating the color blue, love and its spirituality, interracial relationships (black woman/white man), and all that comes with it. And of course, that surprise ending. However, the two books are very different.
I’m currently working on my third book called, Munyori and Johannas, in 72 hours. This book also keeps with the brand of interracial love, the color blue, and lots of surprises that keep your heart pounding. I’m hopeful this book will be published by the end of the year. No writer’s block – the storyline keeps coming. Just have to find the time to finish it.
I would also like to note that Kevin Costner, the actor, is mentioned briefly in all my books. My female friends and I absolutely love him – we are all about the same age as Costner. I’ve used the personality of many of the characters he plays in movies for the love interests. My friends noticed it as well.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Instagram | Amazon
New novel delivers a thrilling romance that explores courage, love and multicultural themes
CHICAGO – From the author of “Kevin and KatheRINe in the Next Lifetime” comes another stirring romance novel that will take readers on a journey that transcends boundaries, races and cultures. In “Shilpa’s Blue Crayon” (published by Archway Publishing), author Crystal Charlotte (CC) Lane invites readers to follow the life of Shilpa, a gifted African American artist whose unusual ocean-blue eyes set her apart in ways that both inspire and isolate her.
Shilpa’s story unfolds within two worlds — reality and the vivid world of make-believe. The novel masterfully intertwines romance, suspense, passion, and societal commentary as Shilpa navigates the complexities of her identity, the expectations placed on her, and the danger that threatens her loved ones. As readers turn each page, they will witness Shilpa’s transformation from a shy, self-conscious young woman into a resilient force of nature determined to protect those she loves. The book’s unexpected twists will keep them engage until the very end.
“Shilpa’s Blue Crayon” weaves rich, multicultural themes with gripping narratives. It is a story about strength, self-discovery, and the courage to embrace one’s unique qualities. A hallmark of Lane’s storytelling is her portrayal of true beauty that goes beyond physical appearance. “When considering a person’s value in this world, ‘looks’ should not be the most important factor,” the author explains. “Qualities like personality, character, intelligence, kindness, and integrity are far more significant in building meaningful relationships and determining someone’s worth as an individual. It is one’s values that are important.”
The novel also features a special foreword written by four-time Grammy winner Deniece Williams, whose insight adds a layer of depth and meaning to the narrative.
When asked what she wants readers to take away from “Shilpa’s Blue Crayon,” Lane says, “It’s true that strong Black women can be stereotyped and characterized by strength, self-reliance, and caretaking; and strong Black women are often depicted as women who are able to withstand difficult circumstances and provide for others without regard to their own needs. To a point, this is true, but like any woman, Black women want love, joy, and respect in their lives as well; and some want families with a loving husband. And to fight for that is ok too.”
“Shilpa’s Blue Crayon” is available now at Archway Publishing and other major online retailers.
“Shilpa’s Blue Crayon”
By Crystal Charlotte (CC) Lane
Hardcover | 6 x 9in | 276 pages | ISBN 9781665766340
Softcover | 6 x 9in | 276 pages | ISBN 9781665766326
E-Book | 276 pages | ISBN 9781665766333
Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble
Shilpa’s Blue Crayon
Shilpa’s Blue Crayon is an enchanting and unpredictable romance, gracefully penned by Crystal Charlotte (CC) Lane. With lyrical prose and a plot rich in emotional depth, this novel pulls readers into a journey that feels both intimate and otherworldly.
At the heart of the story is Shilpa, a down-to-earth African American woman in her thirties. Devoted to her art and deeply committed to those she holds dear, she lives a quiet, contented life in the picturesque and supportive community of “Little Village.” Though outwardly serene and composed, Shilpa carries a quiet ache, a melancholy tucked beneath the surface, an emotional weight she keeps hidden even from herself.
Everything begins to shift when vivid, almost hyper-realistic dreams begin to haunt her sleep. In them, Shilpa discovers a parallel life, one filled with love, a husband, and children she has never known. These dreams, compelling and intense, blur the lines between imagination and reality. As her longing for deeper connection grows, she finds herself straddling two distinct worlds: the tangible life she has built, and a dreamscape that offers everything her heart desires.
The narrative unfolds with a measured pace. Early chapters gently introduce readers to Shilpa’s current reality, a life filled with creativity, loyal friends, and a nurturing village atmosphere. The third-person narration allows for a sweeping view of her world, bringing her neighbors and community to life in vivid detail. There’s a warmth to this village, a place where kindness and familiarity are a given.
Then, without warning, the story pivots. A startling plot twist reveals that Shilpa is not merely dreaming, but entering a parallel universe each time she sleeps. In this alternate existence, she meets the love of her life and experiences the kind of family connection she’s always longed for. The romance is magnetic, bold, passionate, and impossible to ignore. As readers, we are swept alongside Shilpa into these dual realities, savoring the contrast between them.
More than a simple love story, Shilpa’s Blue Crayon is layered with complexity, emotion, and imagination. Lane blends romance with mystery and self-discovery, crafting a tale that is both heartfelt and unexpected. Wholesomeness pervades the narrative, mirroring Shilpa’s resilient and nurturing spirit.
Shilpa’s journey is not without hardship. As a Black woman navigating personal ambition and emotional vulnerability, she faces challenges, some rooted in societal prejudice, others born of her own self-doubt. Yet through it all, she rises. With grace and strength, she claims her right to live, love, and be loved, boldly, completely, and without apology.
This is a story that lingers. Poignant, surprising, and undeniably human, Shilpa’s Blue Crayon invites readers to explore not only parallel lives but the parallel selves we all carry within.
Pages: 276 | ASIN : B0D4267JRW
The Spy Prince Of Basadesh
The Spy Prince of Bashadesh, by H.M. Heath, is a captivating fantasy romance that follows Arjun, a prince on a covert mission to save his homeland from the ruthless forces of Zorvyaka. As his country faces the brink of destruction, Arjun infiltrates the enemy’s stronghold, assuming the guise of a servant with the intention of crippling Zorvyaka from within. His mission takes an unexpected twist when he is assigned to serve the high wizard, Eldrin Glaser, the very man responsible for his nation’s suffering. As Arjun navigates the perilous world of espionage, he finds himself wrestling with conflicting loyalties. On the one hand, his duty to Bashadesh drives him forward, but on the other, he’s drawn to Eldrin, a man far more complicated than he initially believed. Their undeniable chemistry slowly shifts the dynamic between them, with Eldrin, too, feeling the pull of attraction despite their opposing roles in the brutal war. Secrets begin to unravel, and as passions ignite, both men are forced to confront the delicate balance between loyalty and the powerful connection growing between them.
What immediately hooked me about The Spy Prince of Bashadesh is its intriguing blend of spy thriller and romance. Arjun’s undercover mission creates an ongoing tension that propels the plot forward, and his evolving relationship with Eldrin keeps you eagerly turning pages. The enemies-to-lovers arc is compelling, though I did wish for a bit more sophistication in the espionage aspects. Nonetheless, the undeniable chemistry between Arjun and Eldrin stands out as one of the novel’s strengths. Their romance develops quickly but given the book’s lighter tone I think it works well within the narrative’s framework.
At its core, I think this is a YA/NA fantasy, and while the stakes are high, the prose remains accessible and easy to digest, making the book an enjoyable and brisk read. A standout element of the story is the depth of Eldrin’s character. As a wizard thrust into a position of authority because of his magical abilities, Eldrin finds himself politically sidelined. This adds a nuanced layer to the story. He and Arjun grapple with the limitations imposed on them by the war and the complex power dynamics they’re entangled in, which enriches their individual arcs.
The Spy Prince of Bashadesh excels in delivering a gripping, tension-filled romance set against a backdrop of political intrigue. Fans of LGBT fantasy will find much to enjoy, especially with the well-crafted emotional depth and the evolving relationship at the heart of the story. It’s a promising start to what could become a great series, and I’ll definitely be eager to pick up the next installment.
Page: 286 : ASIN : B0D1VN2P3V
How We Perceive the World
Left Turn follows a corporate rising star who meets and falls for a Hollywood heartthrob looking to escape the spotlight. What inspired the setup of your story?
I used to travel to and from England on business. When they adapted the Outlander books for TV, I thought, “What would happen if I got on the plane home from London and Sam Heughan sat next to me? What would he say? What would I say?” From there, it just bloomed into this story of a professional woman bumping into a celebrity who changes her life.
Alex and Finley live in very different worlds but find common ground in their passions. What inspired their characters’ interactions and backstories?
Alex’s world came easily to me as we share a common background. I worked for years in her industry and experienced the same things she’s been through.
For Finley, I’ve always enjoyed listening to celebrity interviews where they talk about their craft. Their dedication to acting shaped how I thought Fin would view his world. And I’ve always sympathized with those chased by the paparazzi and the disruption to their lives this must cause.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
It’s always amazed me how people perceive the world so differently. I think it’s important to understand that each individual defines success as unique to them, and what you see on the outside doesn’t always reflect how people feel on the inside. Along those same lines, how people measure their success changes as their priorities in life change.
Another important concept I wanted to convey is the bias that women encounter in the corporate world. Sometimes it’s in your face and hard to miss, but usually, it’s so subtle, you don’t realize it’s happening until you have distance from it.
And the last theme I wanted to explore was the effect of all the attention we give to celebrities and how destructive it can be.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Left Turn is the first book in the Women of Caprock series. This series features interconnected stand-alone novels, each centering on strong women, their careers, and the relationships in their lives.
The next book in the series, Code Block, features Claire Broussard, an application developer who’s trying to find her place in a new company and finding her progress consistently blocked by the grumpy operations manager, Noah Raines.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Alex Tanner has worked hard to get where she is and isn’t about to let a charming celebrity distract her from her goals. Finley McAlister is tired of the limelight and just wants a chance to be himself. When he meets Alex on a flight, he’s drawn to her confidence and independence.
But their attraction doesn’t go unnoticed, and soon they find themselves caught up in a media frenzy. As they navigate the scrutiny of the public eye, they must decide whether to follow their hearts or stay on the path they’ve worked so hard to achieve.
Left Turn is a captivating tale of love and ambition, featuring strong heroines, gorgeous men, and emotional challenges. It’s the award-winning first book in Lancy McCall’s Women of Caprock series of interconnected standalones that will leave you breathless and longing for more.
Click Buy Now to read Alex and Fin’s story.
Left Turn
Left Turn by Lancy McCall weaves an engaging tale centered on Alex Tanner, an aspiring corporate star whose life takes an unexpected detour when she meets Finley McAlister, a celebrity seeking a quieter life away from the glitz of Hollywood. This romance novel explores the complexities of love under the relentless scrutiny of the public eye, highlighting the sacrifices involved and the invasive role of the media.
The narrative unfolds at a brisk pace, capturing the reader’s interest as Alex finds herself irresistibly drawn to Finley’s charm. The author adeptly portrays their romance amidst the challenges of maintaining privacy and personal identity, creating a compelling and thought-provoking storyline. The relationship between Alex and Finley is tested by external pressures, forcing them to confront the impact of their choices on their personal and professional lives. Lancy McCall excels in crafting relatable, multidimensional characters whose dilemmas resonate with the reader, enhancing the story’s authenticity. The plot transitions smoothly from one event to another, maintaining a gripping momentum that makes Left Turn difficult to put aside. The twists are well-timed, enriching the narrative with suspense and depth.
Left Turn is a well-crafted romance that successfully balances elements of fantasy with realistic emotional conflicts. The portrayal of Alex and Finley’s journey through trials and transformations makes this a recommendable read for those who enjoy stories of personal growth and the complexities of love in the modern world. It’s an ideal pick for a weekend escape, offering both entertainment and reflection.
Pages: 280 | ASIN : B0B7YXQSJN
LITERARY TITAN 