Emma Petersen

k About the Author

Emma Petersen is a multi-published author and talented artist. An avid reader, she credits her love of the written word to her mother. For more information, please visit her main site, www.emmapetersen.com. Master of the Game was released July 18, 2008 from Ellora’s Cave.

Heat Level:Scorching

About the Book

While her son is away at college, single mom Erin Anderson is finally free to indulge in some needed “me” time. Somehow, that translates into attending a “Play and Pain” party with her best friend. But overwhelmed by the scene, she flees into the pool house…and straight into the arms of jaded rock star Liam Donnelly.

What starts as a game turns into much more as Erin finds herself drawn to Liam by lust, love and maybe a touch of fate.

What I Loved

Can I first discuss this cover? I know Ms. Petersen had nothing to do with grabbing this cover model, but wow. Let me repeat, wow. Thanks to artist Syneca for capturing that hotness on paper. If that cover alone doesn’t make you open the book, the fast-paced and entertaining writing will.

I couldn’t put this book down once I started. I was pleasantly surprised to find that this was a May-December romance. Erin is 40 years old and Liam is 28. The chemistry between them is evident from their first encounter, as excerpted below.

Excerpt from pages 15-16

“Do you want to play a game?”

A frown creased her brow at his abrupt change of subject. “A game?”

Liam nodded. “It’s called Master, May I.”

Her brow winkled and he knew she was trying to figure out what the game would entail. “Master, May I? I’ve heard of Mother, May I, but never Master.”

“Do you want to play, Erin?” He didn’t know why he was pushing. He hadn’t played the type of game he had in mind in a very long time and the last time he had, it had left him cold and unsatisfied. But this time, with this woman, he knew it would be different.

“Ho-how do you play?” The tremor in her voice was endearing, but it was also hot as hell because it meant she was already well on her way to where he wanted her to be.

Leaning down, he buried his face in the soft curve of her neck and breathed in her scent… God, she smelled good-subtly of jasmine, sandalwood and something spicy he couldn’t place.

“All you have to do is remember three rules.” He licked the side of her neck, groaning as her pulse sped up beneath his mouth. Clutching her hips he pulled her closer to his body. “One, until we’re done playing, my name is Master.”

Erin is a great heroine. She isn’t stick thin or young, but she is definitely sensual and independent. She also embodies the struggle of a woman who has lived her life wearing one identity—that of devoted mother—and now must find another one—that of a single woman searching  for love.

Liam is the perfect hero: a little bit sad, a lot jaded and a lot sexy. I have a weakness for Irish heroes, and he is a perfect example of why. He is the epitome of alpha male without being overbearing. In fact, his dominance is balanced by his emotional vulnerability, which makes him a compelling male lead.

The supporting characters, Nicci [Erin's best friend] and Gavin [Liam's band mate], were also very interesting. I’m hoping I can smell a sequel there, because I would love to read it.

I’ve been a long-time fan of Ms. Petersen’s work and always enjoy her writing style and touch of cynical humor. Brava to her on crafting a fun, emotionally compelling story that left me wanting more. My only complaint about this book? It ended! I want more Liam!

Recommendation

Add this to your virtual bookshelf. Check out her site www.emmapetersen.com to see more of her upcoming works, including one I am very excited about reading Seducing St. Nic.