Sunday, March 19, 2023

Flirt Like a Pro: 11 Tips from The Good Girl's Guide to Flirting #RomanceTips #Relationship #MondayBlog #LoveandRomance #GoodGirlGuide

I know I've been saying I'll make a bigger effort to be more consistent with putting out blog articles. Well, here I am, showing up for the start of a new blog series on dating, romance--you knew romance would have to feature--and how to cultivate healthy relationships. This first post is on flirting, but you already knew that since the blog title brought you here :). And if you're a good girl, navigating to rough seas of dating, you've come to the right place. 

OK, girls, we all know flirting can be fun and exciting, right? It’s an effective way to show that you’re interested in the cute guy you just met. However, if you’re a “good girl” who values respect and doesn’t want to come across as sexually aggressive or—heaven forbid—desperate, flirting can be a tricky balance. Flirting can be a fun, rewarding way to connect with someone of the opposite gender, but it’s important to flirt appropriately.

I’m not suggesting you become flirtatious because that’s a whole different thing. A flirtatious woman is inclined to be provocatively suggestive and will flirt with just about anything that moves. Since this article is geared toward the good girl, we’ll stick to good-girl flirting, if you don’t mind.

If you’re hoping to find someone who shares your values and your interests, then consider following these eleven good-girl flirting tips. They could help improve your chances of connecting with that special someone you've been waiting for. 

Remember, flirting should never come at the expense of your—or someone else’s—comfort or dignity. As a “good girl,” you have the power to set an example of how to flirt with integrity and respect, while still enjoying the moment and building meaningful connections with others.

Keep in mind that flirting isn't always about finding a romantic partner. It is possible to engage in platonic flirting for fun or to connect with new friends or colleagues. Being yourself and enjoying the moment is the most important aspect of flirting—don't worry about getting it right.

Flirting doesn't have to be overtly sexual or provocative. As I mentioned before, it can be innocent and platonic. In fact, some of the most effective flirting techniques involve simply showing interest and engaging in playful banter. 

Here is my Good Girl’s guide to flirting.

Be confident

When it comes to flirting, confidence is key. It'll be much harder to connect with someone if you’re nervous. Practice good posture, make eye contact, and speak clearly and confidently.

Don't be afraid to initiate

Many people (especially men) appreciate it when a woman takes the initiative in flirting. You should never be afraid to speak to someone you’re interested in or suggest a date.

Make eye contact

One of the simplest and most powerful ways to flirt is through eye contact. Catch the gaze of someone you're interested in and hold it for a few seconds. This shows that you’re confident and interested, without being too aggressive, stalky, or just plain ol’ weird. In a check-out line once, a guy made eye contact with me. He was just staring and staring, and no matter where I looked I felt his eyes boring into me. Not only was I incredibly uncomfortable, I half-expected him to yank a weapon from his back pocket at begin a killing rampage… starting with me.

Respect boundaries

While flirting can be fun, it's important to remember that everyone has different boundaries and comfort levels. If someone seems uncomfortable or uninterested, back off and respect their wishes.

Avoid playing games

While a little bit of playful teasing can be fun, it's important to avoid playing games or manipulating people. Be honest and straightforward about your intentions, and don't lead him on if you're not truly interested.

Smile

A genuine smile can be incredibly attractive and inviting. When you're talking to someone you like, try to keep a relaxed and friendly expression on your face. This will help to put the other person at ease and make them more receptive to your flirting. We’re not talking fixed, crazy-woman grin. Just try to be yourself, even if you are a little cra-cra. You never know, some guys might like that.

Compliment the guy

Everyone loves a sincere compliment. If you notice something you genuinely like about the guy you're flirting with, let him know! Just be sure to keep it appropriate and respectful - for example, commenting on his outfit, hair, cologne, or even his stubble/beard is usually a safe bet.

Ask questions

People love to talk about themselves, so asking open-ended questions can be a great way to show interest and keep the conversation flowing. For example, you might ask about their hobbies, job, or favourite travel destinations.

Playfully tease him

A little bit of playful teasing can be a fun way to show interest and build rapport. Just be sure to keep it light and good-natured - you don't want to come across as mean or aggressive.

Use body language

Nonverbal cues like leaning in, mirroring the other person's posture, or lightly touching his arm can all be effective ways to show interest and build intimacy.

Know when to back off

If someone isn't responding positively to your flirting, it's important to know when to back off. While rejection can be tough, it's better to gracefully accept it and move on than to continue pursuing someone who isn't interested.

In addition to these general tips, it's important to remember that every situation is different. You may find that some flirting techniques work better in certain contexts than others. For example, playful teasing may work well in a social setting, but it may not be appropriate in a professional setting. Pay attention to the social cues and norms of the situation, and adjust your approach accordingly.

Another important aspect of flirting is the ability to recognize when someone is flirting with you. This can be especially challenging if you're not used to being on the dating scene or if you're naturally shy or reserved. Some signs that someone might be flirting with you include:

Is he making eye contact and smiling? Yes, even after you looked over your shoulder to see who he’s really smiling at and discover there’s nobody behind you.

Is he asking open-ended questions about your interests and hobbies?

Has he complimented you in a respectful way?

Is he laughing at your jokes or engaging in playful banter?

Is he leaning into your personal space in a non-threatening way or mirroring your body language?

If you're not sure whether someone is flirting with you or simply being friendly, it's okay to ask! You might say something like, "I'm sorry if I'm misreading the situation, but are you flirting with me?" This can help clarify the other person's intentions and give you a better sense of how to proceed.

In conclusion, flirting can be a fun and rewarding way to connect with others, but it's important to approach it in a way that feels genuine and respectful. With practice and patience, you can develop a flirting style that feels true to who you are and reflects your values and priorities. Good luck! 

Do you have any tips or strategies I haven’t mentioned? Have you got a flirting story to share with us? Please comment below with your flirting tips or experience.

Until next time

Win at life!

Sunday, October 23, 2022

Book 3 In The Pleasure Flights Series Coming Soon #RomanceSeries #RomanticComedy #SweetandSpicy #Ebook #Romance

It's been too long since I last blogged. It's crazy how fast the days, weeks, and months are flying by. Is it me, or does it seems as though the months are beginning and ending in a matter of days? 

I can't believe the year is almost at an end and I haven't published anything new so far. This is mostly, if not entirely, down to the fact that I am now working full-time as an assistant accountant. But this is not to say things haven't been going on in the background. I currently have a proposal under consideration with Harlequin Mills & Boon for their True Love/Romance line. And I'm working on a few other projects--one being book 3 in the Pleasure Flights series. I know, I know, it's been forever since book 3 was first promised. All I can say is...stuff happened.

I don't have a release date for HARLEY: Her Risk Taker (Book 3), but I'm nearing the end of the manuscript so, prayerfully, it won't be too long before you can get your hands on Harley and Rayne's story. 

In case you're interested in hearing more about this romantic comedy series, here's a little about book 1 ADAM: Her Deal Maker and book 2 DILLON: Her Rule Breaker

ADAM: Her Deal Maker


Making a sexy deal with the deal-maker...

Flying sightseers over California is part of helicopter pilot Lacey Sanders' job. The other part is denying her attraction for hot-bod fellow pilot Adam Swank. A painful experience taught Lacey never to date her co-workers. So regardless of how sizzling the sparks are between her and Adam, she just isn't going there. But when they're teamed up to close a business deal on a private island, Lacey can no longer resist Adam’s steamy kisses.

Adam The Deal-Maker has the gift of persuasion. Except when it comes to Lacey. For five years they’ve been dancing around a fiery attraction. Now he has her right where he wants her—in his arms—but can he persuade thrill-seeking Lacey to accept his deal and take a chance on an office romance?


| AMAZON US | AMAZON UK | KOBO | iBOOKS | B&N | SMASHWORDS |


DILLON: Her Rule Breaker

Breaking the rules with his best friend’s sister has never felt so right!

Ever since a horrifying experience in her childhood, Renée Swank has had to endure her family’s overprotection, which forced her to move to the UK eight years ago. Now she’s back in California to open her lingerie boutique. And renting the apartment across the hall from her big brother’s super-hunky best friend—who she’s been crushing on since she was sixteen—has more than a few sexy benefits.

Helicopter pilot/Carpenter Dillon The Rule-Breaker Matthews has never met a rule he didn’t want to break. But when he agreed to keep an eye on his buddy’s little sister, he was certain he’d have no problem honoring their friendship. Until he offers Ren his carpenter skills, and suddenly her boutique isn’t the only secret they’re keeping.


| AMAZON US | AMAZON UK | KOBO | iBOOKS | B&N | SMASHWORDS |




I'm planning to keep you posted on news about Harley and Rayne, so do pop back. 

On a different note, I have changed my website address from moniquedevere .com to moniquedevere.uk 

Friday, January 14, 2022

Party For Two is on Sale for 99¢/99p #Romancelovers #MustRead #Romance





Party For Two is on sale for 99¢/99p for a limited time. Grab your copy before the price goes back up.


Her sexy weekend fling with the guy next door.

Ex-lawyer turned pregnancy model Danielle Hampton has one simple rule; never
date an attorney, even if he’s so deliciously hot she’s nicknamed him His Hotness Esquire. When her father asks her to strap on her silicone bump and pretend to be Casey Lowe’s pregnant fiancée in order to pull her family’s law firm out of trouble, her first answer is a resounding no! But she owes Casey for wrecking his pool.

Civil Rights Attorney Casey Lowe lives by a code of practice: never date his boss’s daughter, but he’ll do just about anything to make partner at the top law firm—even if it means violating his personal code. He hasn’t bargained on the fierce desire that burns hotter than the Mojave Desert and combusts every time he gets his boss’s daughter alone. She may drive him to distraction and melt in his arms, but will this party girl hang around long enough for him to convince her that all the best parties… are for two?

Copyright © Monique DeVere 2015
Crystal Swan Publications
All Rights Reserved

    He clamped his teeth against his sudden, powerful reaction. What was wrong with him? This was California; he should be immune to the effects of seeing a half-naked woman by now. He shoved the phone along with his hands into his pockets. He only prayed Dani hadn’t noticed his blatant reaction to the sight of her.

She stepped forward. “I can fix this.”

He glowered. He knew because he’d perfected the look in the last six months. He followed her gaze over the mess of broken furniture and beer bottles her drunken friends had left behind. “How?”

“Please.” She closed the space between them, raising the fine hairs on his body. Her cool fingers closed on his forearm, sending heated warmth through him.

His muscles flexed involuntarily.

Her eyes darkened and she yanked her hand off him. “I’ll clear this all up. Replace the furniture. Get the pool cleaned. Whatever you want,” she said in a low edgy voice that increased his hunger for her. “I’ll owe you. Just please don’t call the cops.”

Whether her touch, or her imploring gaze, managed to slip past his shield he didn’t know but he found himself agreeing. Though he told himself he did so reluctantly, he had to admit when she turned that aquamarine gaze on him he wanted to give her whatever she asked.

“Fine, but I expect this place to be perfect by the time I return tomorrow evening.”


Friday, May 14, 2021

Pull Up a Chair with Mon ~ What Do You Do When Your Characters Refuse to Comply? #AmWriting #WriteTip #Romance #Writers #AHAgrp

 


What Do You Do When Your Characters Refuse to Comply? 

Recently, after coming up with a great idea for a Harlequin Desire, I eagerly planned the story then sat down to write. What should have been an easy task of translating my plan for the story onto paper turned out to be one of the hardest books I've ever attempted. I spent a month fighting with my characters to make them follow my vision for this story, only to finally admit defeat. I hit a Y in the road. Either give up on the story or let my characters take over.

I decided to give the characters a chance to tell me their story. As it turned out, the only thing my characters wanted to change was the way I told their story. I imagined a dark story of heartbreak and unforgiveness. What my hero and heroine are giving me is a flirty story about forgiveness and learning to trust. 

I've heard other authors speak of their characters taking over, but I've never had that experience to this extent. I always put it down to good planning. So when my characters refused to comply, I was stumped. Convinced this story was a lost cause, I was about to scrap the book and start afresh with another idea. Thankfully, before I did that, I handed the reins to my hero and heroine, and I'm delighted I did! Now the story is finally flowing and I can't wait to hear the next candid line my hero shocks the heroine with. 

I have high hopes for this story and can't wait to submit the proposal. I guess it goes to show that no matter how seasoned a writer we are, there's always something new to learn. And from now on, I won't be wasting time duking it out with my character to make them do what I want them to. I'll simply sit back and allow them to guide me in the task of telling their story, no matter how it may contrast with my vision. It makes for less grey hair and frustration.

So, what do you do when your characters refuse to comply?

You step aside and let them have free rein! It might be a sign that the way you're telling the story isn't the way it's meant to be told, and you just might be pleasantly surprised.

Have you, as an author/writer, ever experienced this? I'd like to hear how you deal with uncooperative characters.