Linda Bufford

She was the quintessential party girl…until she met the guys who wanted more. Growing up in foster care, Vanessa learned early on that the best way to get through life was to be happy, cheerful, and most of all, never ask for anything in return. Now she’s working as a bartender in New Orleans and living life on her own terms. Sure, the party life sometimes gets exhausting, but she knows better than to form long-term attachments with anyone. Jason and Scott are business partners and friends who just bought the bar where Vanessa works. They’re completely captivated by her, but the dark-...

Aphrodite Du Bell has always resented her name. While the members of the ton, and even the queen herself, praise her warm brown skin, perfect curls, and exquisite features, Aphrodite can’t help but think that living up to the literal goddess of beauty is asking a bit much. Her renowned loveliness certainly didn’t stop the love of her life from jilting her and marrying another woman four years ago.

Men give their undivided attention to those who respect them. If a man doesn't feel respected communicating with you, he'll find the respect he needs elsewhere. The woman who knows how to communicate with men can influence the man she wants without resorting to "that mini-skirt he loves." A man craves the attention of a gracious woman who knows exactly what to say to him, when to say it, and most importantly, how to say it to get what SHE wants. Men love being gracefully influenced by the woman they adore.