I write romances of different heat levels. I love slow burn/crockpot stories, so I’m all about the gradual buildup of passion. Sometimes I want to see that passion released full-on, right there on the page. Other times, the story or the characters themselves dictate I take a more sensual approach rather than an overtly sexual one. I still want that romantic payoff either way. I’m participating in a new blog hop to celebrate the steamier side of the romance genre, so all the teasers on this hop will reflect the racier side of our works. My steamy Redclaw Security series centers around a different pair of fated mates with each story, and can be read as standalones
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To give you a taste of my universe, today I’m showcasing Snowfall. This story arose out of writing prompt, “One night stand with a celebrity” and morphed into this hot little short story. You can get a free copy of Snowfall by signing up for my newsletter, but I’m giving away a free audiobook version here to one person chosen at random who comments below and answers this question: Do you prefer your romance sensual or steamy and why? Contest will be open for 7 days and the winner will be announced here on this post on June 30th!
Excerpt: She was never sure who moved first, but suddenly they were kissing. Soft, gentle explorations that quickly became heated when Peyton moaned and opened her mouth for more. Inhaling sharply as their tongues came together, she took in his strong, masculine scent, and reveled in the rough burn of stubble against her cheek, tasting the hint of wine in his kiss. He thrust his tongue alongside hers as though he was making love to her mouth, and she let him in, showing him in every way she could that she wanted this and more.,
The power came back on, flooding the hallway with light. They parted, both of them out of breath. His pupils were dilated until just the barest rim of blue was visible. He started to speak, only to stop and shake his head slightly. She could understand; he was a goddamned Hollywood star, for crying out loud. She could be a crazed fan for all he knew. She had her doubts as well. God knows she was no starlet and she didn’t have the body of one.
Screw that.
She pulled him by his shirt into her bedroom.
This is a blog hop, so be sure to follow the link to the see all the other participants! 
I like both as long as you feel the emotion behind the action. The rest is words and hotness loses something if the author can’t make us feel.
Yes! That makes perfect sense to me! I need to connect with the characters–and for me, that means connecting with their emotions. 🙂
Not entering the giveaway, McKenna (I don’t do audiobooks), but it’s a great question. As you suggest in your intro, it depends on the story. A lot of my own work is very explicit – that’s just what comes naturally to me – but when reading other authors, I look for what fits with the characters. Not all of them want to get naked on the page.
Thanks for participating in the hop!
Right? My 1950s couple are passionate–but they don’t share that information with me. 🙂 Whereas my fated mates couples aren’t shy about sharing!
Thanks for organizing this hop!
I don’t listen to audio books, but I love your story. It’s all about the characters and their emotions for me.
I completely understand–I seldom listen to audiobooks myself! I’m so pleased you like the story, though. Thank you!
I like both sensual and steamy depending on my heroines and heroes. No one should have to choose. Great excerpt. I like how your heroines takes charge.
Ooops! I think I missed your comment earlier–thank you!
Great excerpt! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks! 😀
This bit: “She pulled him by his shirt into her bedroom.” Loved the moxie!!
*grins* Sometimes you just have to go for it! Thanks for commenting!
I like all heat levels in books. It depends on the story and the characters. I do like sex scenes that move the relationship forward or are part of the plot if there is no relationship. I also love how your heroine takes control.
YES!This, exactly! On all counts. Thank you!