Sebastian's Journals by Janey Rosen

Welcome back Janey!! In my last three posts we discussed your Sebastian trilogy, and today we're discussing the supplemental book: Sebastian's Journals. 

You can enter to win a free copy of Sebastian's Journals on this blog! See below for details! 

Genre:
BDSM

Amazon Book Description:
A journal comprising 18 erotic recollections …

Sebastian De Montfort, the dark, dominant Lord of Penmorrow House, Cornwall records his erotic short stories based upon the bestselling, ‘Sebastian Trilogy’ by Janey Rosen. This collection of 18 erotic, mini tales encompass past dalliances, marriage to his late wife Libby and his blossoming relationship with Elizabeth. Each was penned from his dark and sadistic mind on Twitter, where @Lord__Sebastian has risen like the phoenix to enthrall and captivate his followers with his journal.

A tale may span a single page, or more but his eroticism will linger far longer than the printed page. Dip in and lose yourself for a few minutes or take the journal to bed and pass a heated hour or two in the company of sensual depravity. Adult content – be warned!

“It is indeed a dark mind that feeds my soul. My recollections recorded herein, are written with no thought to their candour, for they serve only to exorcise ghosts and quench my sadistic thirst. My journal shall never be read, other than by my ancestors who will likely be as depraved as I. This knowledge affords me the freedom to write fact and fiction and to seamlessly blend the two within my short tales … only I shall ever know the provenance of each.

My journal. My confidant. You judge me not for my dominant ways, nor seek retribution. Hold tight my secrets within your leather binding while I spill forth my prose and verse upon your chaste pages.”

Lord Sebastian De Montfort, Penmorrow.

“Mourning the death of his wife Libby, Sebastian seeks solace in the arms of his maid Scarlett and, together, they live a complex sensual existence in the ancient manor house. Elizabeth Dove could never have known how the act of falling in love with the Lord could cost her dear … her childrens’ lives, her life, and that of the man she loves may be a price too high.”

Janey Rosen, Author of The Sebastian Trilogy.

Giveaway:
Janey has been so kind to offer to sponsor a giveaway!
Prizes include five bookmarks and one signed finished print copy of Janey's latest book: Sebastian's Secrets! Fill out the rafflecopter form below to enter! No rafflecopter = No Entry.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

My Review:
Throughout the Sebastian Trilogy, Sebastian is a mysterious character who can be sensual and caring at one time, and foreboding at another. And so, it is incredibly interesting to read his journal and get inside of his head. Janey knows her character thoroughly, and so she does an excellent job of encapsulating Sebastian's voice throughout this journal. While reading this book will round out Sebastian's character for those who have read the whole trilogy, I believe this journal could stand alone as well. The Sebastian Trilogy has an intricate plot line that supports all of the erotic scenes. However, Sebastian's Journals focus entirely on the sex scenes with each journal entry describing either a sexual engagement that has already happened or a sexual fantasy. Therefore, if you are more interested in reading BDSM erotica without a plot spreading out the sex scenes, then this would be the read for you.

Available on Amazon Here ♥ More books by Janey ♥ Visit Janey's Blog ♥ Follow Janey on Twitter

Sebastian: Retribution by Janey Rosen

Welcome back Janey!! In my last two posts we discussed the first two books in your Sebastian trilogy, and today we're discussing the last book: Retribution. 

Janey has been so kind as to offer to sponsor a giveaway on this blog! See below for details!!

Genre:
BDSM

Amazon Book Description:
SEBASTIAN - RETRIBUTION (Book #3): Sebastian leads Elizabeth further into submission, but increasingly she fears a darker force within the walls of Penmorrow House … Now she faces the toughest challenge so far – she must draw on her inner strength, not only to save herself, but to save Sebastian too

Giveaway:
Janey has been so kind to offer to sponsor a giveaway!
Prizes include five bookmarks and one signed finished print copy of Janey's latest book: Sebastian's Secrets! Fill out the rafflecopter form below to enter! No rafflecopter = No Entry.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Author Interview:
What was the hardest chapter (or part) to write and why?
Writing the death of a child at the end of 'Sebastian - Secrets' was the extremely emotional for me.  As a mother, but also having experienced the sad passing of a friend's child, I was quite literally an emotional mess throughout the writing of this scene. I tried to write sensitively and was heartened to be contacted and praised by a mother who had lost a child in very similar circumstances to that which I wrote about.

For those who might consider reading your book, what would you tell them to expect?
Expect a roller coaster of emotions including laughter, tears, suspense and lust.

Where do you get your ides/inspiration for your writing?
From my imagination and sometimes from dreams.

What does your writing area look like?
I write at a large refectory table, seated on an old wooden chair with three cushions.  One day perhaps I'll have a real desk and comfortable chair!

How long did it take you to complete your first book? 
Six months.

Do you ever experience writer’s block?
Yes I do ... at such times there is no point in forcing myself to write and so I take a break or move on in the story and return later to the point at which I was 'blocked.'

Do you work with an outline, or just write?
I'm very much an organic writer.  I begin with a very crude conceptual skeleton and then add meat to the bones as the story develops.  Although I know the final destination, the journey to reach it can change route during the process.

Is there any particular author or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult? 
As a teenager I was enthralled by Virginia Andrews, 'Flowers In The Attic.'

One of your favorite quotes?
If you lay down and act like a doormat, you're sure to be walked upon.

What is the hardest and easiest part about being an erotica writer?
The hardest part was when my mother told me she had downloaded and read my books! Worse still, that she enjoyed them! The easiest part about being an erotic writer is the freedom and sexual liberation in being able to allow my debauched imagination to run free.

How do you feel about your life as a writer now? Do you regret any past decisions you’ve made?
Writing has led to a positive life change - it is pure escapism and a wonderful de-stressor.  I have no regrets but do now see an improvement in my writing since my first novel.

How hard was it to come up with characters? 
For me, it's relatively easy.  They literally pop into my head.  I can picture them clearly and as I begin develop their personalities, I write and think as that character.

What is your favorite/least favorite part of writing? Why?
For me, the most enjoyable part of writing is to take a seedling of an idea in my mind, to see it sprout into a story arc and finally blossom into a novel.  Editing and rewrites are my least favourite part of the writing process.  By the time I've concluded a novel I want to then put it aside with a sigh of relief.  I'm also very self critical so do tend to need discipline and know when to stop and say "it's finished."

Do you have a day job as well?
Yes! I own and run care homes for young adults with profound learning disabilities.  I'm also involved in politics and in my spare time am mother to four fabulous children.

Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published? 
The most rewarding experience since being published is undoubtedly the feedback that I receive from my readers, many of whom I consider dear friends now.

Will you have a new book coming out soon? Can you tell us about it?
I'm currently writing a new series based upon the dark past of Scarlett, the maid at Penmorrow in the 'Sebastian Secrets' trilogy.  In addition I'm working on a thriller.

Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
I was asked this very question recently by an aspiring writer.  As I told her ... believe in yourself and be true to your concept.  Also, it's incredibly important to utilise social media such as Twitter, Facebook and a blog. Another tip is to make use of the plethora of free literary advice and guidance available online.

My Review:
Janey does an excellent job of wrapping up her trilogy with Retribution. I will admit that this was my favorite book in the series, and I couldn't put it down! Janey has told me this was her favorite book to write in the trilogy, and I think it is evident because this book was much more engrossing than the other two. I am happy I made my way to this book, for it gave me a much greater appreciation for the whole series.

At the end of Dark Bonds, I felt very unsure about what to think of Sebastian, just like our heroine, Elizabeth. However, the way Janey resolves this tension comes naturally within the story. A sign of a well written story is one which has a natural progression. Additionally, Janey manages to also show a character growth with regards to sex. Sebastian and Elizabeth learn to engage in their BDSM with a more healthy approach at the end of this novel, which I appreciated.

If you're looking for a dark erotic trilogy with a detailed plot, then this one will not disappoint.

Available on Amazon Here ♥ More books by Janey ♥ Visit Janey's Blog ♥  Follow Janey on Twitter

Sebastian: Dark Bonds by Janey Rosen

Welcome back Janey!! On Friday we discussed the first book in your Sebastian series, and today we're discussing the second book: Dark Bonds.

Janey has been so kind as to offer to sponsor a giveaway on this blog! See below for details!!!

Genre:
BDSM

Amazon Book Description:
SEBASTIAN – DARK BONDS (Book #2): Elizabeth struggles to absorb tragic news. Her life seemingly in shreds, she is comforted by Sebastian through her darkest days. He suggests she and Bella stay at Penmorrow for a period of healing but now Elizabeth must face not only the increasing sexual demands from dominant Sebastian ... but a darker undercurrent of malice.

Giveaway:
Janey has been so kind to offer to sponsor a giveaway!
Prizes include five bookmarks and one signed finished print copy of Janey's latest book: Sebastian's Secrets! Fill out the rafflecopter form below to enter! No rafflecopter = No Entry.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

My Review:
As I find is common with the second book in a trilogy, Dark Bonds is like a bridge between the first and last installments. It addresses the aftermath of Secrets and then sets up the stage for Retribution - going so far as leaving the reader with an enticing cliff hanger. Elizabeth has been thrown into a world that's completely different from what she has ever known, and is left struggling to sort out her feelings (during an already trying time) as well as figuring out who she can trust. Add to this the character of Sebastian, who sends mixed signals as he gives Elizabeth incredible support but at the same time seems keen to hide information about his past. Elizabeth desperately wants to trust him - but does Sebastian deserve the trust that he requires?

As I mentioned in my review of Secrets, Janey paints incredibly vivid and distinct characters - ones which evoke a strong emotional response. While I'm reading I find these characters equally infuriating at one time but endearing at another. I must say, I think it's a mark of a talented author who can so effectively get inside my head.

I will admit that Dark Bonds was a little hard to get through at points. However, (at the time of writing) I've already made good progress into Retribution, and I am now gaining a larger appreciation for Dark Bonds. If you persevere through this book, you will not be disappointed.

Available on Amazon Here
More books by Janey
Visit Janey's Blog
Follow Janey on Twitter

Sebastian: Secrets by Janey Rosen

Genre:
BDSM

Amazon Book Description:
The Sebastian Trilogy - A tale of romance, erotica and edge-of-your-seat suspense!

SEBASTIAN – SECRETS (Book #1): Elizabeth Dove, 39, feels stifled by her loveless marriage. Juggling motherhood to Joe and Bella with the pressures of running her own recruitment company leaves Elizabeth with little time for her own needs to be met. Her self-esteem diminished, she begins a journey to rediscover her sensuality, which takes her on an emotional and turbulent path. Elizabeth attends a ‘Women in Business’ team-building event, where she is drawn to the dark, brooding Lord Sebastian De Montfort, at his historic, romantic country estate in Cornwall. Elizabeth’s encounter with the Lord is a humiliating affair … but the sexual chemistry is overtly apparent. Sebastian, 42, is a complex, handsome widower. Exuding dominant sensuality, Sebastian appears to offer Elizabeth the contrast to her marriage that she desires and to give her the ‘more’ that she yearns for. With his attentive manner and dark sensuality, the relationship blossoms into a sizzling affair. As Elizabeth and Sebastian’s affair progresses, her marriage deteriorates, culminating in a tragedy that rocks Elizabeth’s world.

Giveaway:
Janey has been so kind to offer to sponsor a giveaway!
Prizes include five bookmarks and one signed finished print copy of Janey's latest book: Sebastian's Secrets! Fill out the rafflecopter form below to enter! No rafflecopter = No Entry.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

My Review:
This first installment of the Sebastian trilogy explores several kinks including sex with strangers, infidelity, and BDSM.... and so there is a little bit for everyone. Janey does an excellent job of showing how trapped Elizabeth feels in her current situation, compelling her motivations forward. Each of Janey's characters is multi-dimensional and flushed out such that they are vivid and believable. I would have liked to see this story told in present-tense rather than past tense so that I could feel even more engrossed in this already compelling novel. This is an honest story with genuine, real people. As such, this book is more than your every day erotica, for it tells a powerful story as well.

Available on Amazon Here
More books by Janey
Visit Janey's Blog
Follow Janey on Twitter

She Craves the Satyr: Villa by Celia Dunroy

Genre:
Consensual Paranormal

Synopsis: 
Lady Aislinn is an unimpeachable gentlewoman...except for those times she invites a dashing forest satyr to ravish her speechless. When a tryst is interrupted, her satyr is forced to hide, but refuses to let their intimate playtime end. Out of the consequences, Aislinn must choose: is she really a proper lady of silks and soirees? Or does her heart belong to the wild?

My Review:
I have to admit that I have a particular fondness for paranormal erotica. And so, I was most pleased when this story came my way. While I really loved the paranormal angle of this story, I was especially impressed with the seamless mixture of moments that Celia wove throughout this short. There were raunchy moments that made me drip, intimate moments that melted my heart, and moments of discovery (both literal and emotional) that kept me intrigued. I found myself wishing that Celia had explored the physical characteristics of the satyr (especially those which vary from humans) in greater detail. Even so, I genuinely appreciated the flow of this story and how it tapped into many levels of the human psyche.

Available on Smashwords Here
Available on B&N Here
Add it on Goodreads
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Sarah's Seduction by CB Lee

Welcome back to this blog, CB Lee!! Last time I reviewed your erotic short A Long Night of Summer. Thank you for coming back for Sarah's Seduction today.

Genre:
Consensual Heterosexual/Adultery

Synopsis:
Shy wife Sarah falls prey to her cum-obsessed co-worker

Excerpt:
He was a nice guy, quite handsome in a rugged, masculine way. He had a sharp jaw and wide shoulders that hinted at a sporty past. The first time they had met, Sarah blushed without realising and mumbled a greeting. That was where it had started, really. Dan saw her shyness and it had captivated him. He had to have her. To see Sarah's face and chest covered in thick ropes of his milky cum as she knelt before him was his newest goal in life.

My Review:
This is a quick, rugged story, just like the sex it describes. Dan does not have to do much persuasion in order to convince Sarah that it will be an excellent idea to sleep with him. In doing so, Dan awakens a dormant lust within Sarah, which we get to watch blossom during this story. Add to the mix a little bit of dominance/submission, and this short has an enticing mix. I think anyone who likes a strong theme of adultery and is looking for a quick arousal will especially enjoy this read.

Available on Amazon Here
Read the Sequel Here

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The Shared Governess by Kathrynn Vitali

Genre:
Threesome

Synopsis:
Rebecca, a governess at the Viscount of Whiteridge’s household, has always hated balls, though not as much as she hates not having been born a noble. At the age of 23 and without a dowry, she fears spinsterhood but one night, stumbles upon an unexpected tryst and into the most scandalous albeit unforgettable night of her life…not just with one man but two…

Excerpt:
"She froze. She had heard the sound before and knew what it was – a moan, and not of pain but the sweetest pleasure.

She was even more curious now and thinking that if she was going to end up a spinster, she could at least watch others make love, she decided to take a peek. She blew out the candle in her hand, setting the candlestick down on the floor. Then after glancing both ways to make sure no one else was in the hall, she placed her key in the keyhole and turned the knob ever so slowly, sighing in relief when the door opened without a creak.

Holding her breath, she looked through the gap. Just as she thought, there were two people in the room – a man with black hair sitting on the edge of the large bed, leaning back on his arms with his eyes closed and his lips slightly parted while another knelt between his legs…

Wait. Another man?"

My Review:
The Shared Governess is a well crafted story which escalates logically from a benign evening to a heated three-some! My favorite element of this story was how it started out with a play on words: Balls. What kind of balls are we talking about here? Kathrynn revisits this play at the end of The Shared Governess, nicely taking her story full circle. I love it when I see an author treat a short story with the same amount of attention to detail as is often found in novels. However, as I find myself saying for many erotic stories, I would have loved to see this written in present tense. Regardless, it is clear that Kathrynn knows how to write a well crafted story... one which I found quite enticing.

On a side note, I have to admit that while I was reading this short, I was strongly reminded of my own writing style. It was spooky - in a good way ;)

Available on Amazon Here
More Books by Kathrynn
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Kathrynn Vitali