Come and find out about Her Favourite Vice, Holden Granger's new novel

Kelly Thomas has worked hard to make detective and be taken seriously as a cop. Now she’s been given her first major case on the Vice Squad, and it’s the kind that can make a career. Going undercover to pose as a high-end escort is going to push her to the limits of her comfort zone. The fact that her new partner, veteran detective Ryan Mackie, tempts her in very unprofessional ways doesn’t make things any easier. Can she keep her cool even as the case heats up?

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

 

Please tell us a little about yourself

I’m Holden Granger, a writer with a lifetime of experience, but only a few years experience of writing anything that the public would want to read. I’ve been a banker, a private investigator, a video producer and political campaign manager.

How did you come up with the idea for your book?

I’m always intrigued with stories about people who have to pretend to be someone else. Spies, undercover cops and writers of erotica all have to get into a role. I thought there was a fun story in to be written from that.

When did the characters first pop into your head?

In this case, the core idea for the plot came first, then I asked what kind of people would be interesting to see live through it. The heroine and hero just kind of grew into it.

Without giving away any spoilers, was the story always straight forward for you to write, or did it pop up any surprises along the way? 

I always hope for surprises as I write, that’s how I know I’m onto a good story. In this case, a character I had thought would play a very minor role became a much bigger part of the story than what I had planned, and I think she adds a lot to the story.

Where do you like to write?

I have an antique desk in my bedroom where I write. It’s the perfect size, and I can hide out without distraction.

Do you read a lot?

I don’t read as much as I’d like, and I read mostly nonfiction right now. I wish I had more time for it. My Kindle has been a huge help. I can take it anywhere and read a few pages whenever I’m stuck waiting for someone or something.

Who are some of your favourite authors?

Last summer I read Jules Verne for the first time as an adult, and really enjoyed it. I also enjoy Mario Puzo, Neil Gaiman and Anne Rice.

And last but not least, have you any words of wisdom for aspiring writers out there?

The hardest thing for me has been to just sit down and do it. We’ve all heard the same thing of lot of writers out there, but it is true. The best writers have made it habit to sit down and write every day. What has helped me enormously is working on a couple of stories at once. When I feel blocked on one, I work on the other.

EXCERPT

Ryan reached out and pulled her in slowly. Kelly looked down in a flirty display of mock shyness. Ryan gripped her chin and tilted her face upwards toward his. She was momentarily distracted by the how the gentleness of his grip contrasted with the hands that looked so hard and rough. All other thought vanished as he leaned down. Kelly's mind had time register that they were about to kiss when his lips touched hers.

It was for the benefit of the camera. This was her police partner, but the kiss chased the reservations away. His lips were soft but demanding, and his hands drifted to her hips, pulling her against him. She felt his mouth open and hers followed. She wondered for a moment what tongues were supposed to do in a fake kiss. He answered the question as he tasted her. This wasn't a fake kiss. His tongue teased her and she melted into him.

He pulled away. She moaned a little in disappointment and was shocked to realize it wasn't all an act.

"I've waited a long time for this. I've got to have you," Ryan said, reaching for the bottom of her dress. Kelly went stiff, but Ryan felt her tension and gave her a wink.

Kelly relaxed and grinned back. This was a show, but they could have fun with it.

"Aren't you impatient," Kelly said with a scolding laugh "Is this how you treat a lady?" She made sure her back was to the camera as she moved closer to the side of the bed.

"I'm not waiting another minute," Ryan said and reached again for the hem of her dress.

This time she let him have it and obediently raised her arms. Ryan lifted the dress over her head. He paused, studying her a little too long for her comfort. In a silk lace bra that in stronger light would be nearly transparent and a tiny thong that barely covered her sex, Kelly struggled not to be self-conscious. She'd never expected to have to reveal this much in a sting operation.

 

 AUTHOR BIO

 

Holden Granger brings a wide variety of life experiences to his writing. He has worked as a political campaign manager, private investigator, and financial industry entrepreneur. Holden has also traveled extensively in the United States, Europe, and Asia in search of cultural perspectives on love, sex, and relationships. He has published other works with Breathless Press including Amateur Night and The Strength to Submit. Fans can contact him at grangerholden@yahoo.com.