I am excited to announce my latest release All Roads Lead to Lucca, a FREE erotic romance, is now available for you reading pleasure.
Roads less traveled often hold the greatest rewards.
CEO Julia Dickenson is no longer consumed by the past. She is now eager to move forward and embrace the future. To celebrate her monumental decisions, Julia is on a short holiday in Italy when fate knocks her off balance and into the arms of a Roman god.
Letting go is difficult for Lucca Albanese, even though he wants to be happy again. He struggles daily with the inept employees at his tour company, the loneliness that rules his life, and his adult children who give him no peace.
Lucca’s headaches go on holiday when a disastrous tour throws him together with a fiery woman who is determined to enjoy life to the fullest, no matter what road she travels.
EXCERPT
"I do not want to leave, Julia.” Lucca stepped back. “But are you sure this is what you want?”
“More than anything.”
The doors silently slid apart, and they stepped inside the cage.
“No regrets in the morning?” His worried face reflected in the marbled glass.
She wrapped her arm around his waist and murmured, “Lucca, this is everything I want right now. Let’s make the most of my short stay.”
The elevator stopped, and they walked to her room in silence with their arms twined around each other. At her door, Julia fished in her purse for the keycard. Lucca shuffled from foot to foot.
“Are you as nervous as I am?” She handed him the card.
Lucca flashed a sheepish grin. “A long time has passed since I have been drawn to a woman, let alone in her bedroom.”
The door popped open, and they entered the dimly lit room. Julia dropped her purse on a chair and propped her treasured painting against the dresser mirror. She glanced up. Her eyes met his, and they held.
Lucca turned her in his arms. He cupped her face in his large hands and tilted her to him. A century of longing passed before he gently touched her lips with his. He tasted of rich foods and expensive wine, and she couldn’t get enough. She licked his lips, anxious for the dessert soon to come.
He skimmed his hand along her cheek and down to her throat. She wanted to tell him how much this meant to her, but words were impossible. Her heart stuttered, and breath caught in her throat. Moisture pooled between her clenched thighs. More than anything, she needed this amazing man’s bare skin next to hers. To feel him enter her. Pumping in and out. A shiver of desire arrowed to her clit.
She raised her arms. He skimmed her top up and off, and then her skirt floated into a puddle at her feet. Her breasts grew heavy. Her nipples tight and hard. He traced the swell of her right breast before he popped open the front closure clip of her bra. In an instant, the lace joined her other clothes. He glided his hands along her torso and ignited streaks of fire in their path. He dropped to his knees before he whisked her panties down her legs. She placed her hands on his shoulders and stepped clear of her scant lingerie. She stood before him wearing just her espadrilles.
Lucca pressed his hot cheek against her abdomen and murmured a string of sweet-sounding words. She ran her fingers through his silky hair and held him close. He pulled back and gazed up at her. His dark eyes were shiny and black. The skin pulled taut over his chiseled face.
“You are a beautiful woman, cara,” His voice came out raspy, almost harsh, as if he had gone for days without a sip of water. “A man must not hurry pleasuring a woman. He must savor every moment. I believe a woman is born to be cherished. Treasured, like priceless art or an exquisite day you must never forget.”
His palms followed the sweep of her hips as he pressed tender kisses along her pubic line. Her body trembled with longing. He inched her thighs apart and breathed deep. The musky aroma of her sex perfumed the air. He spread her legs wider as he lowered his head. The sight of his dark head between her thighs…
Download your FREE book HERE.
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Musa Publishing - Amazon
I'll be back Wednesday with the awesome Raine Delight!
Until then...
Happy Reading!
Sloane
Showing posts with label Italy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Italy. Show all posts
Monday, July 21, 2014
Friday, April 05, 2013
Time to Wrap It Up
The Magnificent Men of Munich saga draws to a close with book four. Yesterday's Lovers brings us Rhineholdt Hoffman, a man who has yet to realize his inner strength, and Isabella Carrington, an heiress who always gets what she wants.
Isabella Carrington has everything a pampered heiress wants, except for the most important item - love.
BLURB:
No matter how many designer items she buys or men she conquers, Isabella Carrington never seems to find what she’s looking for. When she meets the one man in the world completely unaffected by her charms, she is determined to have him, even if it means a dunk in the Grand Canal.
Rhineholdt Hoffman has sworn off women after a destructive relationship alienated him from everyone and everything he loved. Now on self-imposed exile in Venice, Holt lives a solitary existence until a wild French Canadian shakes the staid accountant to the core and makes him question his beliefs.
Issy and Holt are forced to come out of the past and face their future as they set the Venetian nights on fire. Especially after an odd turn of events and an old gypsy have them wondering if they were yesterday’s lovers.
EXCERPT:
Heat coiled through Isabella with Holt’s firm hands holding her in place. All those lonely nights she had spent thinking about him stroking her breasts, plunging inside her vagina, driving her closer to orgasm, raced through her mind. The fantasies had been sweet torture, but nothing compared to reality. Sacre bleu! She needed to ride him and end this torment. He had been the true reason she stayed on after the wedding. The hope of having him in her bed for the weekend had been worth a dunk into the canal.
The oval mirror above the sink gave a perfect reflection of her hand clamped tightly on his ass. He pulled open the glass shower door and she trembled with anticipation.
He twisted on the faucet, then slid her down his body, his hard-on pressing against her abdomen. A volley of shivers arced up her spine as she cupped his face.
“You are too impatient, Schatze.” He turned her around and rested an arm under her breasts, holding her in place as he adjusted the water.
She rubbed her butt against his zipper.
“Definitely too impatient.”
“I have waited a long time for you, Holt, and I have no intention of missing this bon opportunity.”
He turned her to face him and teased his palms over her tight nipples.
“Do you feel well enough to do this?” He skimmed a finger down her bruised cheek. “I do not want to hurt you?”
“Non, mon chér, you will not get out of this so easily by using a few dark spots as an excuse.” She squared her shoulders, striving for tough, but failed when her laughter bubbled up at his expression. “Remember? I have been a tres bad girl.”
“You are sure?” His lips trailed a path of fire down her throat to the scooped neckline of her silk robe.
“Never more of anything in my life.” She caressed the dark brown stubble on his chin, the short bristles crisp under her touch. He raised his head, his eyes smoldering. She traced his full lips with her thumb, then glided her tongue across their seam. He pulled away before she could plunge in.
“Nein, Isabella, I thought you had learned the other day, I am the one in control.” His voice thickened.
“Then I must be the submissive?”
He nodded, determination gleamed in his eyes.
She tapped his chin. “You do know the submissive has all the true control.”
He shook his head, a puzzled expression furrowed his brow. Her words were clearly alien to him.
“Oui, mon chér. The sub is the one who stops it all when they say the safe word.”
He looked up, his brown eyes blanked over. “But what if the dominant does not comply?”
Had she misread him? A chill whisked up her spine. Isabella liked sex—loved it, in fact—but she did not like pain. Of any kind.
“Why would you not stop if I told you it was too much?” She had to get this straight or there would be no playtime with the man who set her juices flowing. Instead, she would be on a jet to Canada that very afternoon.
BUY LINKS
Musa Publishing
Amazon
I'll be back Monday. Have a wonderful weekend!
Sloane
Isabella Carrington has everything a pampered heiress wants, except for the most important item - love.BLURB:
No matter how many designer items she buys or men she conquers, Isabella Carrington never seems to find what she’s looking for. When she meets the one man in the world completely unaffected by her charms, she is determined to have him, even if it means a dunk in the Grand Canal.
Rhineholdt Hoffman has sworn off women after a destructive relationship alienated him from everyone and everything he loved. Now on self-imposed exile in Venice, Holt lives a solitary existence until a wild French Canadian shakes the staid accountant to the core and makes him question his beliefs.
Issy and Holt are forced to come out of the past and face their future as they set the Venetian nights on fire. Especially after an odd turn of events and an old gypsy have them wondering if they were yesterday’s lovers.
EXCERPT:
Heat coiled through Isabella with Holt’s firm hands holding her in place. All those lonely nights she had spent thinking about him stroking her breasts, plunging inside her vagina, driving her closer to orgasm, raced through her mind. The fantasies had been sweet torture, but nothing compared to reality. Sacre bleu! She needed to ride him and end this torment. He had been the true reason she stayed on after the wedding. The hope of having him in her bed for the weekend had been worth a dunk into the canal.
The oval mirror above the sink gave a perfect reflection of her hand clamped tightly on his ass. He pulled open the glass shower door and she trembled with anticipation.
He twisted on the faucet, then slid her down his body, his hard-on pressing against her abdomen. A volley of shivers arced up her spine as she cupped his face.
“You are too impatient, Schatze.” He turned her around and rested an arm under her breasts, holding her in place as he adjusted the water.
She rubbed her butt against his zipper.
“Definitely too impatient.”
“I have waited a long time for you, Holt, and I have no intention of missing this bon opportunity.”
He turned her to face him and teased his palms over her tight nipples.
“Do you feel well enough to do this?” He skimmed a finger down her bruised cheek. “I do not want to hurt you?”
“Non, mon chér, you will not get out of this so easily by using a few dark spots as an excuse.” She squared her shoulders, striving for tough, but failed when her laughter bubbled up at his expression. “Remember? I have been a tres bad girl.”
“You are sure?” His lips trailed a path of fire down her throat to the scooped neckline of her silk robe.
“Never more of anything in my life.” She caressed the dark brown stubble on his chin, the short bristles crisp under her touch. He raised his head, his eyes smoldering. She traced his full lips with her thumb, then glided her tongue across their seam. He pulled away before she could plunge in.
“Nein, Isabella, I thought you had learned the other day, I am the one in control.” His voice thickened.
“Then I must be the submissive?”
He nodded, determination gleamed in his eyes.
She tapped his chin. “You do know the submissive has all the true control.”
He shook his head, a puzzled expression furrowed his brow. Her words were clearly alien to him.
“Oui, mon chér. The sub is the one who stops it all when they say the safe word.”
He looked up, his brown eyes blanked over. “But what if the dominant does not comply?”
Had she misread him? A chill whisked up her spine. Isabella liked sex—loved it, in fact—but she did not like pain. Of any kind.
“Why would you not stop if I told you it was too much?” She had to get this straight or there would be no playtime with the man who set her juices flowing. Instead, she would be on a jet to Canada that very afternoon.
BUY LINKS
Musa Publishing
Amazon
I'll be back Monday. Have a wonderful weekend!
Sloane
Monday, March 25, 2013
Is There Ever A Perfect Lie?
The answer is revealed in my new release Perfect Lie, available from Musa Publishing.
The Magnificent Men of Munich saga continues with a new addition. Book three brings us suave Max Brewer, better known as Heicke to his throng of ladies, and Francine Daniels, a spitfire he can't seem to tame.
A seedling of doubt will unravel even a perfect lie.
BLURB:
After two ex-husbands and a con artist, Francine Daniels has had it with men. Her life is finally the way she wants it — successful and complete. At least she thinks so until a working vacation in Munich brings her face to face with a sexy German hotelier who sees right through her brash exterior and makes her sizzle with his every touch.
Heicke Brewer enjoys his playboy image along with the collection of international beauties on his arm and in his bed. They are safer than another disastrous marriage. Until a chance encounter with a stubborn American pixie too hot not to handle threatens his hard won resolve.
As passion grows between Francine and Heicke, deception threatens to tear them apart, forcing them to fight their way through a perfect lie.
EXCERPT:
Hands clenched at her sides, she stretched to her full five feet three inches. With the movement, her breasts thrust forward and her hard nipples rubbed against the soft fabric of his shirt.
“I’m Francine Daniels and I work with Teddi Howard-Stiefle.” She almost burst into laughter at the shocked look on his face. “Anything else you’d like to know, Pup?”
He trailed his warm palm up her arm, his touch gentle, almost welcome.
“You are freezing.” He took both her hands in his and rubbed them. She pulled back, but he tugged her closer, wrapping his arms around her, enveloping her in a sensual blend of wet and man. “Pixie, I have no intention of harming you, but you need to get warm.”
His body heat and sexy accent conjured up pictures in her mind best ignored. She raised her head to avoid his crisp chest hairs that tickled her cheek, only to be lip level with his dark brown nipple. It looked so tempting. Tasty. Get your brain out of your silk panties.
He rubbed up and down her back, his fingertips grazing across the swell of her ass. His hands slowed to a sensual massage, warming her skin, sending electric shocks to her vagina. He pulled her tighter, his rock hard cock pushing against her stomach. She gasped as her body declared all out war on her common sense, leaving in its trail a burning desire to let herself go. Just this once.
Her breasts grew heavy, aching with each breath she drew. She squeezed her thighs together. Tight. Anything to stop the pressure building in her clit.
He raised her chin and stared deep into her eyes as if he were searching for her soul. After a long moment, while the world stood still, he touched his lips to hers, almost as if he were afraid his strength and size would hurt her. She wanted, no, needed more. Wrapping her arms around his waist, she hooked a thumb in his belt loop and molded her hips to his thighs.
His hands slid under her shirt, skimming upward. She shuddered from the sheer pleasure of his skin against hers. He glided his fingers up her back and flicked her bra hooks. She trembled again, only this time from anticipation. He grazed his fingertips along the sides of her breasts, then cupped them and rolled her nipples between his index finger and thumb. She clutched his back for support, afraid to let go. Afraid it would end.
She moaned as his hot tongue swiped across her lips then opened her mouth, hungry for his taste. Hungry to feel him inside her.
He grabbed her shirttails and drew them over her head. The chilled air stung her burning skin, but did little to cool her.
“You are so beautiful. So perfect.” His husky voice barely a whisper.
One thumb glided over her left nipple, shooting desire throughout her body, and she arched her back from the intense pleasure of his touch. He raised her right breast to his lips and kissed the tip, nuzzling her swollen areola. He devoured both of her nipples, sucking and tugging on them until …
BUY LINK
I'll be back Wednesday with a new recipe. Until then...
Happy Reading!
Sloane
The Magnificent Men of Munich saga continues with a new addition. Book three brings us suave Max Brewer, better known as Heicke to his throng of ladies, and Francine Daniels, a spitfire he can't seem to tame.
A seedling of doubt will unravel even a perfect lie.BLURB:
After two ex-husbands and a con artist, Francine Daniels has had it with men. Her life is finally the way she wants it — successful and complete. At least she thinks so until a working vacation in Munich brings her face to face with a sexy German hotelier who sees right through her brash exterior and makes her sizzle with his every touch.
Heicke Brewer enjoys his playboy image along with the collection of international beauties on his arm and in his bed. They are safer than another disastrous marriage. Until a chance encounter with a stubborn American pixie too hot not to handle threatens his hard won resolve.
As passion grows between Francine and Heicke, deception threatens to tear them apart, forcing them to fight their way through a perfect lie.
EXCERPT:
Hands clenched at her sides, she stretched to her full five feet three inches. With the movement, her breasts thrust forward and her hard nipples rubbed against the soft fabric of his shirt.
“I’m Francine Daniels and I work with Teddi Howard-Stiefle.” She almost burst into laughter at the shocked look on his face. “Anything else you’d like to know, Pup?”
He trailed his warm palm up her arm, his touch gentle, almost welcome.
“You are freezing.” He took both her hands in his and rubbed them. She pulled back, but he tugged her closer, wrapping his arms around her, enveloping her in a sensual blend of wet and man. “Pixie, I have no intention of harming you, but you need to get warm.”
His body heat and sexy accent conjured up pictures in her mind best ignored. She raised her head to avoid his crisp chest hairs that tickled her cheek, only to be lip level with his dark brown nipple. It looked so tempting. Tasty. Get your brain out of your silk panties.
He rubbed up and down her back, his fingertips grazing across the swell of her ass. His hands slowed to a sensual massage, warming her skin, sending electric shocks to her vagina. He pulled her tighter, his rock hard cock pushing against her stomach. She gasped as her body declared all out war on her common sense, leaving in its trail a burning desire to let herself go. Just this once.
Her breasts grew heavy, aching with each breath she drew. She squeezed her thighs together. Tight. Anything to stop the pressure building in her clit.
He raised her chin and stared deep into her eyes as if he were searching for her soul. After a long moment, while the world stood still, he touched his lips to hers, almost as if he were afraid his strength and size would hurt her. She wanted, no, needed more. Wrapping her arms around his waist, she hooked a thumb in his belt loop and molded her hips to his thighs.
His hands slid under her shirt, skimming upward. She shuddered from the sheer pleasure of his skin against hers. He glided his fingers up her back and flicked her bra hooks. She trembled again, only this time from anticipation. He grazed his fingertips along the sides of her breasts, then cupped them and rolled her nipples between his index finger and thumb. She clutched his back for support, afraid to let go. Afraid it would end.
She moaned as his hot tongue swiped across her lips then opened her mouth, hungry for his taste. Hungry to feel him inside her.
He grabbed her shirttails and drew them over her head. The chilled air stung her burning skin, but did little to cool her.
“You are so beautiful. So perfect.” His husky voice barely a whisper.
One thumb glided over her left nipple, shooting desire throughout her body, and she arched her back from the intense pleasure of his touch. He raised her right breast to his lips and kissed the tip, nuzzling her swollen areola. He devoured both of her nipples, sucking and tugging on them until …
BUY LINK
I'll be back Wednesday with a new recipe. Until then...
Happy Reading!
Sloane
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
It's Wednesday. So What's Cooking?
How about Polla alla Bolognese which is Chicken Breasts with Prosciutto and Bel Paese Cheese as prepared by Clancy Marshall, heroine and chef extraordinaire from my new release MASQUERADE. Add a Caesar or tossed salad, fresh Italian bread, and chilled Pinot Grigio for a perfect meal.
Chicken Breasts with Prosciutto and Bel Paese Cheese
4 boneless chicken breasts
freshly ground pepper to taste flour
3 tbsp. butter plus 4 tbsp. for the mushrooms
2 tbsp. olive oil
8 thin 2-by-4-inch slices prosciutto
8 thin 2-by-4-inch slices Fontina or Bel Paese cheese
4 tsp. grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp. chicken stock
8 oz. Baby Bella mushrooms sliced thick
1 tbsp. dried sage
Preheat the oven to 350˚
Slice each breast horizontally in half. Lay the pieces on wax paper about an inch apart and cover with another sheet of wax paper. Pound the slices with the flat of a cleaver or bottom of a heavy bottle to flatten a bit. Be careful not to tear them.
Season the slices with pepper, then dip them in flour. Shake off the excess.
In a heavy 12-inch skillet, melt three tbsp. butter with the oil over moderate heat. Brown the chicken to a light golden color in the hot fat in batches. Do not overcook them.
Transfer the breasts to a shallow buttered baking dish large enough to hold them comfortably or use two dishes. Place a slice of prosciutto and a slice of cheese on each one. Sprinkle with grated cheese and dribble the stock over them. Set dish aside while you prepare the mushrooms.
In the same skillet, melt the 4 tbsp. of butter. When the foam subsides, add the mushrooms and sage. Stirring constantly, saute until mushrooms are well coated, but still firm. Do not cook until soft.
Spoon the mushrooms on top of the chicken slices. Bake uncovered for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Serve immediately.
Serves 4
Here's a scene from page 30 of MASQUERADE where today's recipe is first mentioned. Clancy is in the hotel kitchen blown away at the opportunity to meet Chef Armando.
“Buongiorno, Vittore, Signora.” Chef greeted them amid of clatter of dishwashers and sous chef orders to the line and prep cooks. His tall, pleated hat sat like a loose crown on his head, waggling with each word. “Allow me to show you my workplace.”
“Grazie, I appreciate this. Back home, the kitchen was once my life so I’m excited to see how another professional runs his team.”
Vittore tipped his head as if he wanted to hear her every word.
“Tonight’s dinner feature is Polla alla Bolognese.” He led them across the tiled floor toward the butcher. “Are you familiar with this dish?”
“Yes. Chicken with prosciutto and Bel Paese cheese is one of my favorite to prepare.”
His eyebrow shot to his hairline. “It is a complicated recipe, Signora, are you sure we are discussing the same dish?”
Her rubber soles screeched to a halt. Rumor had it European chefs were not pleased with females infiltrating their elite field. It seemed their general belief was women belonged in the kitchen, as long as it was their house kitchen. Clancy was about to set this snob straight.
Vittore coughed and she shot him a glare. He raised his hands, palms out, in surrender.
From the corner of her eye, Clancy saw a slender blonde woman sheathed in black knit that molded every curve. She waggled her fingers until Vittore looked her way.
“Scusi,” he barely got out before he rushed off.
Between Chef, with his sexist attitude, and Vittore, bounding away like a dog in heat, Clancy saw red and someone had to pay.
“Chef, so we’re on the same page here, I hold a BPS, Bachelor of Professional Studies from the Culinary Institute of Art, Culinary Arts, which I earned in less than four years. I also hold an MA, Masters in Arts in Gastronomy, from Le Cordon Bleu Chicago. I have worked every level of the kitchen from commis up to, and including, head chef.” She inhaled a deep breath and forced herself to continue, even if it did break her heart. “I have also owned my own catering company. So yes, I think I do know how to prepare and serve a complicated recipe.”
No one, especially not some uptight chauvinist, was going to talk down to her on the only thing in the world she did with great success.
“I stand corrected, Signora. It is not often Con, er, Signore Vittore brings, ah,…Oh, this is not going well at all.” Red faced, hands twisted into a knot, the poor man slouched and shook his head. His hat slid from left to right and back, gaining speed, until Clancy was positive it would fly into the soup pot.
“How about we start all over again?” She shot him a huge grin and her hand. “Hi, I’m Clancy Marshall, and really happy to meet you, Chef Armando.”
He clasped his smooth hands around hers. “Grazie, Signora Clancy. I return the sentiment.”
“Now, about that recipe we were discussing. A lovely taste enhancer is fresh sage and finely chopped bella mushrooms cooked in the stock before it’s laced over the breasts. One chef I know adds spinach, but I find that too bitter for the delicate flavor of the dish. Wouldn’t you?”
“Por favore, Signora, explain how you make the inclusion of the sage and bellas?” He steered her toward the Chef’s table at the side of the kitchen. “Are they diced together? What exactly do you do?”
He pulled out a chair, then motioned for her to be seated. A thrill raced through her. Chef had accepted her. As in all professional kitchen’s, only select people were invited to sit at the coveted table.
“Simple. Use the whole sage leaf. It’s easier to pick out before serving. The mushrooms are sautéed in a little unsalted butter before heating into the stock. I’m sure your guests will enjoy it. I’ve done the same with veal and had great success.”
“Grazie, I appreciate this.” He tapped the pen against his notepad. “Giovani, avanti.” Chef motioned for a younger chef to come to the table, then handed him the paper. “For tonight, make these additions for half the plates. The others prepare as usual.”
Chef looked at Clancy and shrugged. “A test is always best before the book is altered.”
To read more from MASQUERADE, please click HERE.
I'll be back Friday with The Look Challenge. Until then...
Mangiare Bene!
Sloane Taylor
Chicken Breasts with Prosciutto and Bel Paese Cheese
4 boneless chicken breasts
freshly ground pepper to taste flour
3 tbsp. butter plus 4 tbsp. for the mushrooms
2 tbsp. olive oil
8 thin 2-by-4-inch slices prosciutto
8 thin 2-by-4-inch slices Fontina or Bel Paese cheese
4 tsp. grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp. chicken stock
8 oz. Baby Bella mushrooms sliced thick
1 tbsp. dried sage
Preheat the oven to 350˚
Slice each breast horizontally in half. Lay the pieces on wax paper about an inch apart and cover with another sheet of wax paper. Pound the slices with the flat of a cleaver or bottom of a heavy bottle to flatten a bit. Be careful not to tear them.
Season the slices with pepper, then dip them in flour. Shake off the excess.
In a heavy 12-inch skillet, melt three tbsp. butter with the oil over moderate heat. Brown the chicken to a light golden color in the hot fat in batches. Do not overcook them.
Transfer the breasts to a shallow buttered baking dish large enough to hold them comfortably or use two dishes. Place a slice of prosciutto and a slice of cheese on each one. Sprinkle with grated cheese and dribble the stock over them. Set dish aside while you prepare the mushrooms.
In the same skillet, melt the 4 tbsp. of butter. When the foam subsides, add the mushrooms and sage. Stirring constantly, saute until mushrooms are well coated, but still firm. Do not cook until soft.
Spoon the mushrooms on top of the chicken slices. Bake uncovered for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Serve immediately.
Serves 4
Here's a scene from page 30 of MASQUERADE where today's recipe is first mentioned. Clancy is in the hotel kitchen blown away at the opportunity to meet Chef Armando.
“Buongiorno, Vittore, Signora.” Chef greeted them amid of clatter of dishwashers and sous chef orders to the line and prep cooks. His tall, pleated hat sat like a loose crown on his head, waggling with each word. “Allow me to show you my workplace.”
“Grazie, I appreciate this. Back home, the kitchen was once my life so I’m excited to see how another professional runs his team.”
Vittore tipped his head as if he wanted to hear her every word.
“Tonight’s dinner feature is Polla alla Bolognese.” He led them across the tiled floor toward the butcher. “Are you familiar with this dish?”
“Yes. Chicken with prosciutto and Bel Paese cheese is one of my favorite to prepare.”
His eyebrow shot to his hairline. “It is a complicated recipe, Signora, are you sure we are discussing the same dish?”
Her rubber soles screeched to a halt. Rumor had it European chefs were not pleased with females infiltrating their elite field. It seemed their general belief was women belonged in the kitchen, as long as it was their house kitchen. Clancy was about to set this snob straight.
Vittore coughed and she shot him a glare. He raised his hands, palms out, in surrender.
From the corner of her eye, Clancy saw a slender blonde woman sheathed in black knit that molded every curve. She waggled her fingers until Vittore looked her way.
“Scusi,” he barely got out before he rushed off.
Between Chef, with his sexist attitude, and Vittore, bounding away like a dog in heat, Clancy saw red and someone had to pay.
“Chef, so we’re on the same page here, I hold a BPS, Bachelor of Professional Studies from the Culinary Institute of Art, Culinary Arts, which I earned in less than four years. I also hold an MA, Masters in Arts in Gastronomy, from Le Cordon Bleu Chicago. I have worked every level of the kitchen from commis up to, and including, head chef.” She inhaled a deep breath and forced herself to continue, even if it did break her heart. “I have also owned my own catering company. So yes, I think I do know how to prepare and serve a complicated recipe.”
No one, especially not some uptight chauvinist, was going to talk down to her on the only thing in the world she did with great success.
“I stand corrected, Signora. It is not often Con, er, Signore Vittore brings, ah,…Oh, this is not going well at all.” Red faced, hands twisted into a knot, the poor man slouched and shook his head. His hat slid from left to right and back, gaining speed, until Clancy was positive it would fly into the soup pot.
“How about we start all over again?” She shot him a huge grin and her hand. “Hi, I’m Clancy Marshall, and really happy to meet you, Chef Armando.”
He clasped his smooth hands around hers. “Grazie, Signora Clancy. I return the sentiment.”
“Now, about that recipe we were discussing. A lovely taste enhancer is fresh sage and finely chopped bella mushrooms cooked in the stock before it’s laced over the breasts. One chef I know adds spinach, but I find that too bitter for the delicate flavor of the dish. Wouldn’t you?”
“Por favore, Signora, explain how you make the inclusion of the sage and bellas?” He steered her toward the Chef’s table at the side of the kitchen. “Are they diced together? What exactly do you do?”
He pulled out a chair, then motioned for her to be seated. A thrill raced through her. Chef had accepted her. As in all professional kitchen’s, only select people were invited to sit at the coveted table.
“Simple. Use the whole sage leaf. It’s easier to pick out before serving. The mushrooms are sautéed in a little unsalted butter before heating into the stock. I’m sure your guests will enjoy it. I’ve done the same with veal and had great success.”
“Grazie, I appreciate this.” He tapped the pen against his notepad. “Giovani, avanti.” Chef motioned for a younger chef to come to the table, then handed him the paper. “For tonight, make these additions for half the plates. The others prepare as usual.”
Chef looked at Clancy and shrugged. “A test is always best before the book is altered.”
To read more from MASQUERADE, please click HERE.
I'll be back Friday with The Look Challenge. Until then...
Mangiare Bene!
Sloane Taylor
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
ANNOUNCING MASQUERADE
My new standalone book is hot off the Musa Publishing e-press!
With a gorgeous cover designed by Kelly Shorten and the unbeatable editing skills of Elizabeth Silver, that boosted the book to a level 4 Heat Rating, MASQUERADE brings true romance and all the delicious personal bits to life. Read on and see for yourself.
Behind every mask is a fragment of truth.
BLURB:
Chicagoan Clancy Marshall has planned her dream vacation in Venice down to the last detail. From gondola rides to masked balls, and anything else that just happens along, she is determined to experience all pleasures. But those careful plans fly out the door when she literally falls into the arms of a masked stranger.
Vittore Ricci comes from an old Venetian family that claims two doges in their lineage. A straight-laced Count and owner of a prestigious hotel, he never does anything without serious consideration. Until a sexy American tourist offers an opportunity no man can refuse.
EXCERPT:
Green eyes sparkling behind delicate shades of purple feathers held him hostage. Vittore thought he had recognized her the moment she walked onto the pier. When she spoke, he knew his search had finally ended. Determination and desire had persevered. The gods had delivered her into his hands and he wanted to learn more about this mystery woman with her gay laugh and quick wit, even if it was only for one night.
Clancy opened her door, then switched on the entry light. At the bedroom, she glanced over her shoulder, the long plumes brushing her creamy bare shoulder. “Make yourself comfortable. I’ll be just a moment.”
He wandered around the room, straightening the pillows on the sofa, adjusting a wing backed chair and, finally, the magazines scattered across the pecan desktop. It was there he found a handwritten note caught between the pages. A little guilt crept in for snooping, but he shoved it aside, eager to discover more about this sensual woman who intrigued him.
Note to Self — Loving Venice
1. Ride in a gondola
2. Climb the Campanile in St. Mark’s Square
3. Attend a masked ball
4. Dance under the stars in St. Mark’s Square
5. Tour a professional kitchen
6. Buy one special piece of Murano glass
7. Fall in love—at least for the night
8. Hear a Vivaldi Concert
9. Attend an opera at the Fenice
10.
Vittore reread the paper, paying close attention to number seven. He looked out at the waning moon and sent a prayer of thanks to Raphael the Archangel, the patron saint of happy meetings, for his good fortune.
BUY LINK
I'll be back tomorrow with a new recipe. Until then...
Happy Reading!
Sloane Taylor
With a gorgeous cover designed by Kelly Shorten and the unbeatable editing skills of Elizabeth Silver, that boosted the book to a level 4 Heat Rating, MASQUERADE brings true romance and all the delicious personal bits to life. Read on and see for yourself.
Behind every mask is a fragment of truth.
BLURB:
Chicagoan Clancy Marshall has planned her dream vacation in Venice down to the last detail. From gondola rides to masked balls, and anything else that just happens along, she is determined to experience all pleasures. But those careful plans fly out the door when she literally falls into the arms of a masked stranger.
Vittore Ricci comes from an old Venetian family that claims two doges in their lineage. A straight-laced Count and owner of a prestigious hotel, he never does anything without serious consideration. Until a sexy American tourist offers an opportunity no man can refuse.
EXCERPT:
Green eyes sparkling behind delicate shades of purple feathers held him hostage. Vittore thought he had recognized her the moment she walked onto the pier. When she spoke, he knew his search had finally ended. Determination and desire had persevered. The gods had delivered her into his hands and he wanted to learn more about this mystery woman with her gay laugh and quick wit, even if it was only for one night.
Clancy opened her door, then switched on the entry light. At the bedroom, she glanced over her shoulder, the long plumes brushing her creamy bare shoulder. “Make yourself comfortable. I’ll be just a moment.”
He wandered around the room, straightening the pillows on the sofa, adjusting a wing backed chair and, finally, the magazines scattered across the pecan desktop. It was there he found a handwritten note caught between the pages. A little guilt crept in for snooping, but he shoved it aside, eager to discover more about this sensual woman who intrigued him.
Note to Self — Loving Venice
1. Ride in a gondola
2. Climb the Campanile in St. Mark’s Square
3. Attend a masked ball
4. Dance under the stars in St. Mark’s Square
5. Tour a professional kitchen
6. Buy one special piece of Murano glass
7. Fall in love—at least for the night
8. Hear a Vivaldi Concert
9. Attend an opera at the Fenice
10.
Vittore reread the paper, paying close attention to number seven. He looked out at the waning moon and sent a prayer of thanks to Raphael the Archangel, the patron saint of happy meetings, for his good fortune.
BUY LINK
I'll be back tomorrow with a new recipe. Until then...
Happy Reading!
Sloane Taylor
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
TURN UP THE HEAT
ISABELLA IGNITES
Magnificent Men of Munich Book Four
ISBN: 978-1-60168-256-7
Aspen Mountain Press

BUY LINK
BLURB:
Jet setter Isabella Carrington has it all, fame, heart-stopping looks, and carte blanche over every man she meets, except one. Staid accountant Rhineholdt Hoffman proves to be immune to her charms. Until one hot Venetian night.
Rhineholdt came to Venice to escape a life that holds no meaning. He’s sworn off sex until a chance encounter with the luscious Isabella. Their heated affair sets the City of Bridges on fire and forces him to face the fears holding him back.
So what does a woman who has everything, except the right man, do for fun? Come… Take a peek behind Isabella’s bedroom door.
EXCERPT:
Holt wanted to fuck her all night long. Ride her until sunup and again all the next day. He could not seem to get his fill of Isabella. In bed or out.
Isabella stretched up, her nipples sliding against his chest, and kissed him. He clutched her tighter, then scooped her up into his arms. In a few strides he stood at the side of her bed and lowered her onto the center of the duvet.
He looked down on her, allowing his fingertips to skim along the curve of her hip as she pulled her knees up, covering the part of her he wanted most to see.
“No, Issy. Lower your legs and open them.” He traced his hand down the inside of her thigh. “I want to see all of you.”
“Holt, but do not tease me any longer.” She reached out her hand to his.
He mounted the mattress, then braced his arms on either side of her, isolating them from the world, and swung his body between her wide spread thighs.
He kissed her mouth, along her cheek, moving lower to her throat. She wiggled and tried to thrust her hips against him, but he caught her, holding her still.
“It is my turn to have a little fun, Issy.” He sucked her nipple into his mouth, swirling the peak with his tongue until she moaned. A series of shudders ran the length of her as she reached for his cock, but he reared up just enough to stop contact.
Holt kissed his way down Isabella’s body, laving at her navel until her hands pushed his shoulders lower, as if she craved his mouth on her hot clit.
Her swollen pussy was wet and shiny, the blonde hairs laced with her cream. He ran an index finger between her folds and she moaned. Her hips bucked as he slid his finger up and down, along her channel, barely grazing her clit.
He lowered his shoulders, nestling between her thighs, and traced his mouth along her skin until her wet hairs tickled his cheek. Slowly he spread her folds, the pink flesh quivering with his touch, then laved and sucked her labia, loving the sweet honey taste of her sex.
She grabbed the rails of the headboard, rising up to meet his lips, but he clamped her hips into place. Her trembling body tensed and he knew she was but a lick away. He slid his index finger into her wet channel, massaging against the inside wall. She moaned and her muscles clenched around him, holding him tight. He edged out, then glided two fingers back in, rotating them against the slick walls as he watched her unfocused eyes widen.
“Dieu, Holt, no more torture.” Her pitch had dropped to a throaty whisper, the words coming out strangled.
He looked up at her. With shaky fingers, he wiped her wetness from his face and repositioned himself between her thighs…
BUY LINK
I'll be back tomorrow with Destiny Blaine. Until then...
Happy Reading.
Sloane Taylor
Sweet as Honey...Hotter than Hell
www.sloanetaylor.com
ISABELLA IGNITES
Magnificent Men of Munich Book Four
ISBN: 978-1-60168-256-7
Aspen Mountain Press
BUY LINK
BLURB:
Jet setter Isabella Carrington has it all, fame, heart-stopping looks, and carte blanche over every man she meets, except one. Staid accountant Rhineholdt Hoffman proves to be immune to her charms. Until one hot Venetian night.
Rhineholdt came to Venice to escape a life that holds no meaning. He’s sworn off sex until a chance encounter with the luscious Isabella. Their heated affair sets the City of Bridges on fire and forces him to face the fears holding him back.
So what does a woman who has everything, except the right man, do for fun? Come… Take a peek behind Isabella’s bedroom door.
EXCERPT:
Holt wanted to fuck her all night long. Ride her until sunup and again all the next day. He could not seem to get his fill of Isabella. In bed or out.
Isabella stretched up, her nipples sliding against his chest, and kissed him. He clutched her tighter, then scooped her up into his arms. In a few strides he stood at the side of her bed and lowered her onto the center of the duvet.
He looked down on her, allowing his fingertips to skim along the curve of her hip as she pulled her knees up, covering the part of her he wanted most to see.
“No, Issy. Lower your legs and open them.” He traced his hand down the inside of her thigh. “I want to see all of you.”
“Holt, but do not tease me any longer.” She reached out her hand to his.
He mounted the mattress, then braced his arms on either side of her, isolating them from the world, and swung his body between her wide spread thighs.
He kissed her mouth, along her cheek, moving lower to her throat. She wiggled and tried to thrust her hips against him, but he caught her, holding her still.
“It is my turn to have a little fun, Issy.” He sucked her nipple into his mouth, swirling the peak with his tongue until she moaned. A series of shudders ran the length of her as she reached for his cock, but he reared up just enough to stop contact.
Holt kissed his way down Isabella’s body, laving at her navel until her hands pushed his shoulders lower, as if she craved his mouth on her hot clit.
Her swollen pussy was wet and shiny, the blonde hairs laced with her cream. He ran an index finger between her folds and she moaned. Her hips bucked as he slid his finger up and down, along her channel, barely grazing her clit.
He lowered his shoulders, nestling between her thighs, and traced his mouth along her skin until her wet hairs tickled his cheek. Slowly he spread her folds, the pink flesh quivering with his touch, then laved and sucked her labia, loving the sweet honey taste of her sex.
She grabbed the rails of the headboard, rising up to meet his lips, but he clamped her hips into place. Her trembling body tensed and he knew she was but a lick away. He slid his index finger into her wet channel, massaging against the inside wall. She moaned and her muscles clenched around him, holding him tight. He edged out, then glided two fingers back in, rotating them against the slick walls as he watched her unfocused eyes widen.
“Dieu, Holt, no more torture.” Her pitch had dropped to a throaty whisper, the words coming out strangled.
He looked up at her. With shaky fingers, he wiped her wetness from his face and repositioned himself between her thighs…
BUY LINK
I'll be back tomorrow with Destiny Blaine. Until then...
Happy Reading.
Sloane Taylor
Sweet as Honey...Hotter than Hell
www.sloanetaylor.com
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Buono Mangiare!
As you all know, it’s rare for me to post a restaurant review. Today, I have to.
Studs and I had the pleasure of dining at Merlo La Salumeria, which translates to The Delicatessen, on Chicago’s north side. The restaurant was new to us, but it was Italian so we knew it had to be good. Good didn’t begin to cover it.
The smiling staff welcomed us the moment we walked into the intimate dining room with modern Italian décor of pale, warm colors and subdued lighting, creating an instant sensation of coming home. Crisp white tablecloths and napkins and a menu to die for made us want to nestle in and never leave.
Our server arrived and introduced herself. Being the pro that she is, Jacqueline had extensive knowledge about the menu and wine card. She offered suggestions to create a dinner we’ll long remember. With her friendly manner, Jacqueline turned a good evening into a perfect night.
With Jacqueline's guidance our first plates were handmade tortelloni filled with ricotta di pecora in Bolognese ragu and handmade ravioli filled with ricotta di pecora, and parsley, tossed with a lighly spiced beef, pork and chicken ragu then topped with pecorino di pienza. The pasta melted in our mouths.
The main course was organic pork tenderloin medallions pan seared with white wine, pink and green pepper, and served with glazed Granny Smith apples. The flavorful meat was fork-tender, nothing like I'd ever had before.
We also shared a plate of asparagus with extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper which were scrumptious.
The desserts were tempting, but we decided cappucinos would be best after a superb meal.
Besides awesome food, another bonus to this topnotch eatery are the pleasant, helpful servers and crew who never slack. Without being intrusive, they work hard with a minimal amount of noise. It’s noticeable and much appreciated.
What good is a review without pictures? It’s not. I freely admit “borrowing” these from the Merlo La Salumeria website. Below are two pastas to set your mouth watering.


Luisa Silvia, the Executive Chef and owner, is a marvel. Each day fresh pastas, sauces and ragus are prepared under her talented guidance.

The tastes are amazing. Believe me - you’ll never want another boxed noodle or jarred sauce in your life.
Open for dinner, the Salumeria offers a huge variety of recipes including salads, pastas, meats and fish entrees along with carryout. Next time you’re in Chicago, be sure to share a meal at this wonderful establishment.
When you go, be sure to ask for Jacqueline - the lady is a treasure.
Merlo La Salumeria
2638 N Lincoln Avenue, Chicago
Phone: (773) 529-0747
I'll be back tomorrow. Until then...
Happy Writing!
Sloane Taylor
Sweet as Honey...Hotter than Hell
www.sloanetaylor.com
As you all know, it’s rare for me to post a restaurant review. Today, I have to.
Studs and I had the pleasure of dining at Merlo La Salumeria, which translates to The Delicatessen, on Chicago’s north side. The restaurant was new to us, but it was Italian so we knew it had to be good. Good didn’t begin to cover it.
The smiling staff welcomed us the moment we walked into the intimate dining room with modern Italian décor of pale, warm colors and subdued lighting, creating an instant sensation of coming home. Crisp white tablecloths and napkins and a menu to die for made us want to nestle in and never leave.
Our server arrived and introduced herself. Being the pro that she is, Jacqueline had extensive knowledge about the menu and wine card. She offered suggestions to create a dinner we’ll long remember. With her friendly manner, Jacqueline turned a good evening into a perfect night.
With Jacqueline's guidance our first plates were handmade tortelloni filled with ricotta di pecora in Bolognese ragu and handmade ravioli filled with ricotta di pecora, and parsley, tossed with a lighly spiced beef, pork and chicken ragu then topped with pecorino di pienza. The pasta melted in our mouths.
The main course was organic pork tenderloin medallions pan seared with white wine, pink and green pepper, and served with glazed Granny Smith apples. The flavorful meat was fork-tender, nothing like I'd ever had before.
We also shared a plate of asparagus with extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper which were scrumptious.
The desserts were tempting, but we decided cappucinos would be best after a superb meal.
Besides awesome food, another bonus to this topnotch eatery are the pleasant, helpful servers and crew who never slack. Without being intrusive, they work hard with a minimal amount of noise. It’s noticeable and much appreciated.
What good is a review without pictures? It’s not. I freely admit “borrowing” these from the Merlo La Salumeria website. Below are two pastas to set your mouth watering.
Luisa Silvia, the Executive Chef and owner, is a marvel. Each day fresh pastas, sauces and ragus are prepared under her talented guidance.
The tastes are amazing. Believe me - you’ll never want another boxed noodle or jarred sauce in your life.
Open for dinner, the Salumeria offers a huge variety of recipes including salads, pastas, meats and fish entrees along with carryout. Next time you’re in Chicago, be sure to share a meal at this wonderful establishment.
When you go, be sure to ask for Jacqueline - the lady is a treasure.
Merlo La Salumeria
2638 N Lincoln Avenue, Chicago
Phone: (773) 529-0747
I'll be back tomorrow. Until then...
Happy Writing!
Sloane Taylor
Sweet as Honey...Hotter than Hell
www.sloanetaylor.com
Monday, October 18, 2010
WE HAVE WINNERS!
Last issue of my newsletter offered two people free downloads of ISABELLA IGNITES book four in the Magnificent Men of Munich seres.

BLURB:
Jet setter Isabella Carrington has it all, fame, heart-stopping looks, and carte blanche over every man she meets, except one. Staid accountant Rhineholdt Hoffman proves to be immune to her charms. Until one hot Venetian night.
Rhineholdt came to Venice to escape a life that holds no meaning. He’s sworn off sex until a chance encounter with the luscious Isabella. Their heated affair sets the City of Bridges on fire and forces him to face the fears holding him back.
So what does a woman who has everything, except the right man, do for fun? Come… Take a peek behind Isabella’s bedroom door.
BUY LINK
A drum roll please!
And the lucky contest winners are:
ALIZA
JUDY
Thanks to everyone who participated! You are all appreciated.
For your chance to win a variety of great prizes, please go to my website homepage where you can sign up for my short quarterly newsletter. Each issue has a Readers Only contest with prizes that range from gift certificates at national stores to downloads by terrific authors.
I'll be back Wenesday with popular Raine Delight and her latest release. Until then...
Happy Writing!
Sloane Taylor
Sweet as Honey...Hotter than Hell
www.sloanetaylor.com
Last issue of my newsletter offered two people free downloads of ISABELLA IGNITES book four in the Magnificent Men of Munich seres.
BLURB:
Jet setter Isabella Carrington has it all, fame, heart-stopping looks, and carte blanche over every man she meets, except one. Staid accountant Rhineholdt Hoffman proves to be immune to her charms. Until one hot Venetian night.
Rhineholdt came to Venice to escape a life that holds no meaning. He’s sworn off sex until a chance encounter with the luscious Isabella. Their heated affair sets the City of Bridges on fire and forces him to face the fears holding him back.
So what does a woman who has everything, except the right man, do for fun? Come… Take a peek behind Isabella’s bedroom door.
BUY LINK
A drum roll please!
And the lucky contest winners are:
ALIZA
JUDY
Thanks to everyone who participated! You are all appreciated.
For your chance to win a variety of great prizes, please go to my website homepage where you can sign up for my short quarterly newsletter. Each issue has a Readers Only contest with prizes that range from gift certificates at national stores to downloads by terrific authors.
I'll be back Wenesday with popular Raine Delight and her latest release. Until then...
Happy Writing!
Sloane Taylor
Sweet as Honey...Hotter than Hell
www.sloanetaylor.com
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