Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Thankful and Sad but Happy at the Same Time.

I know, that sounds like a silly and somber title for a post.

It is.

Over the past year, I've met some great friends, learned A LOT about reading, writing, and editing. I learned what HTML is and that it's not just some strange binary code or something. I felt the joys of editing because I got a contract, and the lows of oh hell, the editor didn't want it, please send again or better yet, never. I've read more ebooks than I ever thought possible. And I managed to drive my family crazy on more than one occasion.

Highlights:

February - I joined LASR/WC. (PS - I love it.)AND I saw Clint Bowyer at the Auto Show!
March - saw Gary Allan in concert where he played Right Where I Need to Be.
April - a whole lot of reviewing went on.
May - I got the contract for my first novel - Right Where I Need to Be through The Wild Rose Press. I also subbed a short story that got shot down at the editor level.
June - went to the Lori Foster Get Together and got a crash course in promotion
July - more reviewing and editing for the novel
August - see July
September - got the contract for my erotic short story Learning How to Bend through Total E Bound
October - worked like a dog on a couple of ideas for novels and short stories and did reviews
November - the craziness of NaNo, but I won!
December - more reviewing, writing, editing, and critting, and writing a short or two for WC (well, five on the year). (Did I mention I have a new CP? Yup and I'm making headway!)

And I have the edits for yet another novel idea done for the moment. I love it when things come together and work out. For a little while I lost a little faith in my writing abilities, but a kick in the pants from a couple of CP's got the ball rolling.

I have some sorrows, but they can wait until later.

Toodles.

Eye Candy Part Thirty-Three

The last and final eye candy of the year... Ben McKenzie from the tv show Southland.
Now I'll be honest, I've never seen the show, but each time I see him I think, gee this guy looks familiar. He's got that guy next door, non-threatening, but still dangerous enough to be sexy look about him. How can you not want to drape yourself on him?






Oh, and it's kinda nice to find one of these guys around my age - not way younger to where I feel like a perv and not too old to where it's just weird.

What do you think? I've love to know.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Ah, the Fun of the Holidays Begins to Wear Off

I love the holidays, I do. But among the plethora of things I detest, snow is one of them.

You may ask, how so? It's pretty, it's soft, it's the stuff of poetry and song.

Oh sure.

Yes, it's all those things, but for a girl who grew up not particulary fond of it, driving in it scares me spitless.

There are these wonderful things called slick spots, black ice, and those crazies who don't know how to drive in snow any better than I do. EEEEEKKKKK!

As Susan Powter would say, Stop the Insanity.

In my case, it stops with me.

No, I haven't taken ant driving in snow courses. (DH keeps trying to teach me since he lives for snow and practically salivates when the first flake of the season falls, but the silly man...at least he tries.) But I do try to not be out in it whenever possible.

My idea of fun in the snow is watching it fall from my living room window.

Grief, I can't wait for April to come around. At least then it's mostly rain.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

More Random Musings

Okay, I really needed to vent.

I love animals. I really do. Cats are my favorite critters. (See my cat-shifter stories if you don't believe me.)

But right now, I'm ready to scream.


My cat Rusty (see the grey tiger picture) has a few issues.
Besides the fact that he's very high strung (like you couldn't tell that from the pic...), he's still sick. We took him to the vet starting three and a half months ago to figure out why he's not eating right, why he's leaving little messages on my furniture and not using the litter box. So, I got some great info from a close friend and started making him cat food. Yup, I'm getting close and personal with my food processor, fresh veggies, and sardines...

You'd think stinky fish would do it. You haven't met the ever headstrong Rusty.

So I'm doing my pre-Christmas cleaning and I find little messages he left under the Christmas tree!!!!

Now I'd like to think I'm an observant person, but you can't see what goes on at night if you're asleep. Still, the puddles under the tree that aren't from the tree stand... oy...

So, that's my venting. Rusty's pouting in the dog kennel for now. He's got a little box to go in and can't get out to puddle on things, so the tree should be safe for now.

As for the orange one, that's Kenny (so named after the NASCAR driver Kenny Wallace). If Garfield was real (well, if he lived in Ohio), then Kenny would be him. No kidding. He loves to sleep, eat, and sleep some more. And yes, he's known for sleeping in strange positions, like with one back leg draped over the couch. Don't ask me why.

Toodles. I need to get some other things done.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Random Thoughts

Well, I actually came to the end of one of my WIPs. Yep, I finished one I had on the back burner for a bit. It's an erotica piece and goes after my erotica piece contracted with Total E Bound. Will they like it? I hope, but it still needs some edits and to see the CP, but hey, it's written and, to me, that's half the battle.

At the same time, I have a contemporary WIP that's with the CP. We're half way through it and I think it's got a good chance of being contracted somewhere, but I'm not tooting my own horn. I just really like the story and have a soft spot for farmers.

So, now it's back to the vampire story. He's been neglected for a while and well, he's not complaining about where he's at... but I'm sure he'd like to get his HEA.

And there's a pesky Ancient Greece story floating around in my head that would love to be told. Ah, but I need time to do that. Someday.

So that's all for now.

Toodles.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

My Favorite Red Hot Reads of the Year

Thought I'd share a handful of my favorite books and the links to find them. You can also go to Amazon, but the publishers are a great place to start as well.

Black Swan - Linda Nightingale
The Wild Rose Press
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/

Best of Intentions - Michelle Cary
The Wild Rose Press
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/

Damn Good Man - Michelle Witvliet
The Wild Rose Press
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/

Dead Sexy - Kimberly Raye
Harlequin Enterprises, Ltd. (Blaze novel)
http://www.eharlequin.com/

Drive Me Crazy - Nancy Warren
Kensington publishing Company
http://www.kensingtonbooks.com/

Gamble’s Game - Tara S. Nichols
Siren Publishing Inc.
http://www.sirenpublishing.com/

Cottonwood Place - Sandy Wickersham-McWhorter
The Wild Rose Press
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/

Moving Target - Cheyenne McCray
St. Martin’s Press
http://us.macmillan.com/SMP.aspx

A Kiss of Ashen Twilight – Book One of the Ashen Twilight Series - Rae Lori
Lyrical Press, Inc.
http://lyricalpress.com/

Healing Luke - Beth Cornelison
Sourcebooks - Casablanca
http://www.sourcebooks.com/sourcebooks-community-books-and-solutions.html

Magical Riffs: Rock Hard Seduction 4 - Tonya Ramagos
Siren Publishing, Inc.
http://www.sirenpublishing.com/

Taking Chloe - Anne Rainey
Samhain Publishing
http://samhainpublishing.com/index.php

Man with a Past - Kay Stockham
Harlequin Enterprises, Ltd.
http://www.eharlequin.com/

One Lucky Cowboy - Carolyn Brown
Sourcebooks, Inc.
http://www.sourcebooks.com/sourcebooks-community-books-and-solutions.html

Lord of Pleasure – Book 2 in the School of Gallantry Series - Delilah Marvelle
Kensington Zebra
http://www.kensingtonbooks.com/

Getting Lucky - Carolyn Brown
Casablanca, Sourcebooks, Inc.
http://www.sourcebooks.com/sourcebooks-community-books-and-solutions.html

A Kiss Before Dying - J.A. Saare
Amira Press
http://www.amirapress.com/

Dying Scream - Mary Burton
Zebra (Kensington Publishing Corp.)
http://www.kensingtonbooks.com/

Silk and Steel - Lindsay Townsend
Siren Publishing
http://www.sirenpublishing.com/

Dakota’s Cowboy – Dakota Heat Anthology 3 - Leah Brooke
Siren Publishing Inc.
http://www.sirenpublishing.com/


Enjoy and have a Great Holiday!

Monday, December 14, 2009

It's My Turn

Logan and Seth told me this is a great place to stop. Logan claims there are some good looking girls. Seth, well, he doesn't say much unless you want to talk airplanes.

Me? Well, I can't give you many details. Most of what I do is classified. Why? Well, I have this gift. I can shift. Into what? That's classified. (But no, I won't cause bodily harm and, no, I won't tell you.) But I like to talk sometimes. I've seen a lot of the world. I love my family and deal with my fiancee's family. They can't accept what they don't understand. But then there's my Jamie. She gets me when no one else does. She's my rock. And she's a damn fine kisser. But those are a few more details than I should divulge.

I was asked what my ideal woman would be if I didn't have my Jamie. If she left me? Honest? I'd probably immerse myself in my work. If she walked away, then I'd know I was the cause. Sound sappy? Who gives a fuck. If she passed before me? I'd be a lonely man, but I'd never take another. My bond with Jamie is unique to us. She's it for me and I am damned lucky.

I'm sorry if I didn't entertain you like Logan. He's suave, but he's full of himself. I guess I'm more like Seth, but there's nothing wrong with the strong and silent type.

Take it easy, value your freedom, and pray for the troops.

Sunday, December 13, 2009

What I Do When I'm Not Writing

Someone asked me to show my artwork. Yep, I know that sounds like show my math homework. I was asked what does the stuff I do in my spare (if there is such a thing) time.

Here's the drawing for my SIL and Brother for Christmas. It's their dog, Lacey.













And here's a custom order of three softball coat hooks.










So now you know a little bit of what I do when I'm not locked to my laptop.

Oh, and stop by tomorrow. My hero from Jingle Bells will be here!

Toodles!

Thursday, December 10, 2009

So Here's An Update


Not that I have a ton of fabulous news to share, but I have some nice news, some fun news, and well, any news is good news.

First thing: I sent my rewrite to the editor as of the first of the month. This was my Air Force story. It went from being a menage to being a M/F with a little anal play. I think it works better in the second form even though I totally grumped about it before.

Second thing: My Christmas cards are done and in the mail. If I forgot you, well, I'm sorry and if you let me know, I'll write yours, too. In that same vein, my shopping is done, hubby's shopping is done and we can relax.

Last thing (and the most important!!!): I have a free read coming out TODAY at Whipped Cream! Yup, my story, Jingle Bells is the featured free story. If you liked my cat shifter in Do You Want to Know a Secret? then you'll love Dean. Might have him stop by tomorrow. Here's the link or you can click on the cover:

http://www.longandshortreviews.com/WC/story.htm

Enjoy my cover and hopefully I have more exciting news to share soon.

Hugs and toodles.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Had a Bad Day...

I know, that song was voted the number one One Hit Wonder of the Decade. Not surprising. But that's not why I posted it.

And yes, I'm going to complain for a moment, because this is stuff I did that DUH! I know better...

Never take my DH shopping. If you need to look at something, then leave him at home. I needed to buy an eyeliner because mine fell apart (I use the kind that's in the plastic tube instead of in wood like a pencil cause I tend to make a mess when sharpening it). All I wanted was a black/brown. Thank God there was one on the front of the display or I'd still be walking home from Walmart.

Coming home from picking up my DS at school, I got cut off by a combine. Yes, I said a combine. How I didn't see him coming is beyond me.

I juggled dinner (You should've seen it, it was pretty amazing that I didn't drop the ham) and managed to do a load of laundry. That worked fine. It was afterward when I caught not one but BOTH of my cats on the counter eating the cooling ham...

Okay, so that's gross, but not awful.

Here's the awful: I sat down and did my Spongebob imitation. What do I mean? Anyone see the episode "Ripped Pants". Yeah, that was me. Sat down to write and RIIIIPPPPP! And they were my favorite jeans...

So while I am blogging, I'll more than likely end up blowing the circuitry on my laptop or something else bizarre..

Anyone else have one of those days?

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Random Question

So I had this friend... and she sent me an email with one question:

If you could have one piece of clothing forever, what would it be and why?

Loaded question...

I asked, knowing it wasn't probably possible, if Jonathan togo counted as clothing...

Would you believe she said no! The gall! Oh well, I can dream.

My real answer? My hoodie. Yup. Dh swears I'm part lizard or something because I'm always cold. No joke. We went to a race where everyone else wore tees and shorts and I had on my jeans and hoodie. I was comfy and warm. Them? I have no idea. Then again, he also thinks the hoodie is part of my anatomy. (TMI? You'll get used to it. I can be worse.)

So why the hoodie? It keeps you dry in the rain and it's long enough to cover embarrassing situations. Oh, and its warm, but you can shove the sleeves up and cool down.

And since my first choice was taken... it's the hoodie.

What's your answer to the question? I'd love to know.

Toodles.

What'cha Want for Christmas?

I posed this question to my DS last month. Yup, I wanted to know what he wanted for Christmas...and he knows I will go out of my way to...get my shopping done before Thanksgiving (and here you thought I'd say to get whatever he wants... um...no)

Although he looked at each store Toy Book and pointed to everything, there were a few things here and there that stood out each time. He's dying for a Star Wars Ty Fighter (if I spelled that right) with a Darth Vader and a General Greivous.

But asking him what he wanted brought back memories. Yup. I'm getting old, I'm about to use the terms "when I was a kid"...geesh.

Anyway, when I was his age, we didn't ask for much. Remember that big recession in the early '80's? Yup, I remember it. While everyone else asked for Cabbage Patch Kids, I wanted a Barbie and was thrilled that I got a new one. Christmas was lean that year and a bunch more after that.

So yeah, I tend to go all-out at Christmas. Call it the desire to never have my child HAVE to think of Christmas as the time when Mommy and Daddy cry because they "just don't have enough". That's how my folks explained it to us when we got a Chapstick and an orange in our Christmas sock.

Am I complaining? Heck no. The lean years taught me that Christmas isn't an extravaganza. It's a time to show those you love that you love them and to give.

Is my DS spoiled? Not more than any other kid, but he is one of the few who looks forward to Toys for Tots shopping. He LOVES to go to the store and pick out toys for "the boys and girls who don't have a Santa". His words. He also LOVES to shop for the APL. No joke. We go and buy kitty litter, kitten and cat food, and a big bag of dog food and deliver it to the local shelter. He calls it "playing Santa for the puppies and kitties". But then again, he always asks if we can take a few of the puppies and kitties home. Um... with a house full (2 dogs and 2 cats... there's not much more room at the inn...).

But then again, my DS has to get there first.

Toodles.

Monday, November 30, 2009

Any Snow?

Some days it feels like I'm being snowed under and I don't mean that fluffy white stuff outside.

I have a great set of Cp's. I love them, really, I do. And I love working with them.

But they aren't the problem.

Nope. It's my overactive imagination. Do you have one of those? I do. I have one of those little (actually three or four) notebooks to write down my ideas. But my issue is that I want to work on those ideas. I want to see them go from just an idea on a page to a full story, to published...

Seems like there aren't enough hours in the day.

But, my holiday shopping is done. Yup. I finished two days after I started. Oh, I love to shop--don't get me wrong--but I knew what I wanted and planned where to get it. And most of what my loved ones wanted wasn't on sale on Black Friday.

Oh I have I few little things extra to get...stamps...a secret Santa gift...a teacher gift...but that's easy peasy...

But right now, I have about five ideas fighting for attention in my head and a DH who's complaining I need to 'pencil him in'... geesh...

How's things with you all? I'd love to know.

Toodles.

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Want to get to know a new author? Meet Kiss Carson!

Yes, Kiss has been here before, but I finally got time to pen a couple reviews for her work.

I love a story that immerses me in the world of the characters. Kiss Carson’s debut novel Illusions of Destiny is one of those stories. I liked the interplay between Ianna and Regan. The love and trust between them will surround you in heat. I couldn’t put this book down. If you want a sexy read with a heavy dose of fantasy and love, then you need to read Illusions of Destiny.



Jewels of the Sun had me riveted from page one. I liked the world Kiss Carson created and felt drawn in immediately. She writes with a passion that you feel throughout the story. And talk about sexy heroes! Saxon took my breath away. I recommend Jewels of the Sun if you want a fun novel to escape and fall in love.




Enjoy!

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Red Hot Reads for December

Red Hot Reads for December and you won’t want to miss these sizzling stories.

And Charlie Makes Three Jane Thompson, Red Sage Publishers, Historical

Ever have that one person you want more than anything, but when you pour out your heart, you find that they can’t reciprocate? And what if they share your feelings, but are scared? Then you’d have And Charlie Makes Three.

Heat Seeker Lora Leigh, St. Martin’s Press, Action/Adventure, Contemporary

Some men are born to lead. Other men are born to love. While others are born to die and come back again. Heat Seeker is one of those men who gets a second chance, not only with his life, but with his love.

Lady M – Confessions of a Victorian Master 1 Cheri Valmont, Siren Publishing, Inc., Historical

What happens when a man wants love from his wife? He woos her. Does wooing her include time with a Master? In Lady M – Confessions of a Victorian Master, it sure does.

Dakota’s Cowboy – Dakota Heat Anthology 3 Leah Brooke, Siren Publishing Inc., Action/Adventure, Contemporary

She’s got land to protect. She’s got a man who wants her dead. She’s also got two men willing to lay down their lives to keep her safe—and in their bed. Who? Dakota’s Cowboys, of course.


Santa’s Coming Cat Lovington, Champagne Books/Carnal Passions, Contemporary

Santa Claus came to town and Amy’s happy to sit on his lap. A hot time is guaranteed for all. Want to know more? Then you need to read Santa’s Coming.

Silk and Steel Lindsay Townsend, Siren Publishing, Historical

What happens when you’re ripped from the life you know and thrown into a world you don’t understand? And what if you fall for the one person you should fear? You’d better read Silk and Steel to find out more.

Enjoy, Happy Christmas, and a Blessed New Year.

Oh, and Happy Reading!

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

It's Official!


Apparently my computer tells me that I hit 50k, but according to NaNo...It was 49,491...

Am I discouraged? Heck no! The thing still needs words added, so I added away. And yep. I made it. It's official. WOO HOO!

And I see my pals Clare Revell and Helen Hardt made it! Way to go ladies!

But wait! There's more! (Sounded like Billy Mays there for a sec, didn't I?) My rewrite just might be ready for resubmission. I need to get that danged old synopsis written, but, I will meet my December 1st deadline.

And since I'm so excited, I'm posting my winner badge. Yep. I'm thrilled.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

I'm a Free Read at Whipped Cream!



Yup, you read that right. My story Don't Look Away is the free read at Long and Short's Whipped Cream site.

Click on the cover to get to the site.

What's Don't Look Away about? Here's a short, short blurb:

He's an artist. She's his model. The drawing needs finished, but he's stuck in a creative black hole. What's he to do?

I guess you have to read Don't Look Away to find out.

I hope you enjoy. If you do, let me know and pass it on!

Toodles.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

So I've been gone a while....

I got a new job and it's fun. I love it, but it consumes time. Yup, that means my blog hopping, site hopping, and twiddling around is at a serious low, but it's all good thing.

What am I up to?

Well, kicking nosy heroes out of my blog, dangged it.

Besides that, I'm kicking my butt to get that rewrite done. Yep, still at it. And I have at least three ideas rolling around in my head that need jotted down on paper before I forget them. Plus, I want to finish my NaNo... yeah, yeah, I conquered it, but I want to actually get to the finished state--where a publisher would look at it. And then there's this pesky Christmas story idea with a shifter...

I need more time in the day...

OH! OH! And I have a free read up on Thursday at Whipped Cream, entitled Don't Look Away... about an artist and his model... Can't wait to see my cover... since some know what it looks like... (insert big grin)

What's up with you? I'd love to know!

Toodles!

Saturday, November 14, 2009

I DID IT!

Okay, are you wondering what I did?

Muah ha ha ha... I won't tell you.

Nah... I'm not feeling that evil.

Four days later than I planned, but I WON THE NANO CHALLENGE!

Yup, the MS isn't done, (it needs more than 50k) but I made it to 50k today! I'm proud of me. I knew I could do it, but I wasn't sure I could do it in the time I allotted myself. (can you tell I'm hard on me?)

But it's late and I need to sleep.

Thanks for sharing my happy moment.

BTW: I have another short story coming from Whipped Cream on the 19th. When I get the cover, heck yeah I'll share it with you all.

And since I'm in a great mood, here's some eye candy. I'm enjoying him and so should you.

sexy guys 1012.jpg Pictures, Images and Photos

Toodles.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Hmmm... This is new...

So I see Wendi walked away from her blog for the moment. Abby always said I should try blogging... might as well give it a shot.

You probably don't know me. I'm not famous and I didn't flash anyone at a Christmas party. Once I tried karaoke, but never again. Some are meant to sing. Not me.

So you don't know me, but I'm sure my job makes your life easier. Who the heck am I and who is Abby? My name is Technical Sergeant Seth Donovan. I'm a mechanic on C-130 Hercules aircraft for the Ohio Air National Guard. That's right, I fix and maintain military aircraft.

As for Abby, she's my wife. She's a Romance Coordinator at our local library. She loves to read and dabbles in romance writing.

She's the love of my life.

But as with all marriages, we have issues. My recent deployment wasn't easy for us. But that's all I'll say. As Abby would tell you, I'm not good with sharing my feelings.

Did I say too much? Probably. I don't always know when to shut either. I'm not good at this blogging business either.

One more thing, don't believe everything Logan says. He's a good guy, but he's a talker.

I better go get ready to go on duty.

Be safe and God Bless America.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

A-ha! I got in!

So this is blogging...hmmm...

Wendi said I shouldn't twiddle with her blog, but sometimes you just gotta get your message out there.

You may be wondering who I am. If you don't know by now--and you should--I'm Logan Malone. You probably saw me in Blood Rites, Shakermaker, or the romantic made for television movie Broken Wheels and Broken Hearts. Oh and I was raked number three on the Hottest Bachelors of Hollywood list by Delish Magazine.

Don't remember those? Well, phooey. Never saw the list? Better go find it... it was out a couple years ago.

So she told me if I showed up on her blog, I was supposed to talk about the type of women men want. The jerk in me would tell you he wants a woman who's breathing. I told you--he's a jerk.

So what type of woman do I want?

I myself like women who are real--not trying to be someone they aren't. Pop culture tells women that they have to be skinny and endowed to be beautiful.

I disagree.

I'd rather hold a woman with curves. One who takes care of herself, but isn't afraid to have a steak for dinner.

I like women who aren't afraid to laugh and laugh at themselves. I'm a sucker for physical comedy... I'm sorry--if someone falls down--I laugh.

Long hair, the kind I can run my fingers through--big turn-on.

But I'm getting long winded and there's a certain woman I can't wait to bump into. You might have heard of her--Cass Jensen. Oh man! She rocks my dreams, but I'd rather keep that private.

So long for now--unless I decide to break into Wendi's blog again.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Red Hot Reads for Cool November Nights

So you want a couple of reads for the cooler autumn nights. I've got four that you won't want to miss!

A Promise at Dawn, Jane Leopold Quinn, Siren Publishing, Inc., Contemporary, 59 pages, HOT

Life seems like it ends when one dies. Does it? Not necessarily. Sometimes life begins just when you think its hit the skids. Don’t believe me? Then read A Promise at Dawn. You’ll change your mind.

Cody, Kimberly Raye, Harlequin Blaze, Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Paranormal, 209 pages, HOT

Add one vampire to one woman who is trying to outrun her sexy side. For spice, the story takes place in Skull Creek, Texas with a whole passel of other vampires. What do you get? Cody, by Kimberly Raye.

Driven to the Limit – an Anthology, Alice Gaines, Changeling Press, Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Paranormal, 187 pages, HOT

Man and machine... what a great concept. But what if sleek motorcycle machine turned into man made for only one woman? Then you have Driven to the Limit by Alice Gaines.

Dying Scream, Mary Burton, Zebra (Kensington Publishing Corp.), Action/Adventure, Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery, 379 pages, Spicy

Some decisions in life are easy—nap or stay awake, sit or stand, yes or no. Other decisions feel right, but end up being all wrong—which shoes go with the teeny black dress, dinner at eight or nine... or being with the right man. What do you do when you’ve made the wrong decision? Read Dying Scream to see how Arianna deals with her struggle to find Mr. Right after her husband passes away.

Enjoy and happy reading!

Toodles.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Goal #3 - To Not Give Up

Don't Give Up.

Sound odd? It's not. I have a lot of irons in the fire. You know what I mean; you can't just do ONE thing... that would be illogical (can you tell I watched too much Star Trek as a child?).

So when I started NaNoWriMo I made a specific goal not to give up. Writing 50k in one month can be overwhelming. Heck, writing 50k at all can be intimidating. Anyone remember that dreaded assignment in high school called the term paper? Some of us have had the luxury of writing that fabled thesis. There are a lot of words in both. And yes, it's not easy. It's darned hard.

But is that enough reason to give up?

No.

So I'm going to keep plugging away. I know the story will come out okay and since I have more than just three goals, I'll be fine.

How are you doing? I can't wait to find out. : )

Toodles.

Ever Bite Off More Than You Can Chew?

Yep. That's the question I ask. Have you ever bitten off more than you could chew and wondered when you'd hit the wall?

I am so there.

Am I complaining?

No.

I am not one to give up. Nope. I'll see things through if it kills me.

But sometimes I wonder if I really did overextend myself this time. Now, if you ask the DH, he'll tell you I don't extend myself enough, but that's not important. (He'd also tell you I'm one of the reigning queens of TMI...)

Maybe, but I'll still finish what I started. So, since I feel like it... here's some eye candy to make the day brighter.

Photobucket

Enjoy and Toodles.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Hump Day Happy!

Yup, I'm neck deep in challenges I took on, but I thought we needed this yumminess. I know I do.

Photobucket

Enjoy!

Monday, November 2, 2009

Goal #2 Accomplished.

I made it to 10k. Woo hoo! 1/5th of the way there.

Now to kick that little voice in the back of my head that keeps wanting to revise the blasted thing.

Hope you're reaching you're goals. I'm on your side!

Toodles.

I WON!!!!

How cool is that? I got the confirmation this morning, I won the Mistress Bella's Halloween Short Story contest. What a great birthday present (it's tomorrow)!

I want to thank all those who voted for me and the judges who liked my story. I hope I entertained you and you want to read more of my work.

Didja miss it? Want to read it?

I'll try to post it sometime today.

Thanks and toodles.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Goal #1 Accomplished - 5k in one day.

Yup. I set goals for myself for NaNoWriMo.

Besides driving the Dh insane with it (which was an unintentional goal) and having at least one member of my family blaming me for attaching my laptop to my lap permanently, I reached my #1 goal.

I got to 5115 words today.

Do I think I'll be able to do this each day this week, like I planned?

Probably not. But if I mix it up and give myself a couple of 1500 word and 2k days, then I might be okay.

Then again, there are days when I'd like to shut the world out and just write anyway, so we'll see.

Toodles.

November... Let the Madness Begin

So it's officially November. Oy!

Yep, I signed up to do NaNo and nope, I have nothing written yet. I took a cue from Helen and thought I'd like to follow her lead and try to do 5k per day this week. We'll see.

Oh yeah, and I'm also trying to rewrite a sub that wasn't contracted... I know where it needs to go, but golly I need time to get to it.

Then I had to get those reviews in. Yup, you gotta get done what you commit to doing. But that's good for now.

I'm hoping my CP likes my Farmer and that she gets back to me, but not til closer to the end of the month. I want to sub it before the end of the year, but I don't want to kick my butt and turn in less than my best work, too.

Speaking of CP's, I got behind with that and had to kick that into high gear, too. Thank God I didn't forget.

So how crazy will your November be? Let me know. I'd love to know I'm not the only masochist.

Toodles.

Friday, October 30, 2009

I've Got the Link! Now Vote!

Okay, so I'm a little slow at this game. Here's the link to the contest:


http://www.mistressbellashortstories.blogspot.com/ or http://www.mistressbellashortstories.blogspot.com/2009/10/do-you-want-to-know-secret-by-wendi.html


My story is Do You Want to Know a Secret?

I'm still a little behind, but second is still pretty good!

Thank you!

Wendi

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

What Next?

I was asked yesterday what's next for me. I was also asked when a whole slew of Wendi Zwaduk stuff was coming out...

Um...

As soon as I get the info, I'll post my entry to the Mistress Bella contest. I hope I do well, but won't die if I don't win. (Can you see my brave face?)

I sent another short to Whipped Cream. I had this need to write an art story. I wanted to write something that was sexy not because the characters are having sex (But they are), but because of the way they talk. I know, I know that sounds a little odd. Trust me. If it's accepted, you'll understand.

I sent my previous WIP to my second CP for critique. I'm hoping she likes it and that it'll soon be ready for submission somewhere. Fingers crossed.

Currently, I'm working on a resub that is getting that total overhaul I mentioned only about a hundred times. (Did I mention I tend to obsess?)

Oh yeah, and I decided to give NaNoWriMo a shot. Yup. I have this idea for a follow-up to Right Where I Need to Be that involved Jade Weir. What's going to happen? Well, the story is inspired by the death of a dear friend of mine. You see, I do craft shows in the fall for some extra cash. I make new buddies at each show, but Judi was my favorite. She had a cat she loved like a child. But, sadly, she passed away. When she passed, someone needed to take her beloved cat, Casey. Now I'm not much of a good friend because I'm not sure what happened to Casey, but this story (When it's done) is inspired by and written in memory of Casey and Judi. Will it be a tear-jerker? Maybe a little bit, but it'll still have my biting humor and sexy plot.

So what are you up to?

Let me know.

Toodles.

Monday, October 26, 2009

And It's In!

For what seems like forever, but has really only been about three months, I've been working on a farmer story. When my dad lost his job and got to farm full time, I decided to write my own farmer, who was darned sexy and totally not farmer material... so... after writing an outline, I did it.

I shocked myself with how fast it seemed to flow, too. But that being said, it wasn't all giggles and sunshine either. I always get this self-inflated feeling when I finish the first draft of a WIP that it's the best thing since sliced bread... then it goes to a CP and reality kicks in. Duh, it's good, but not the best. And it shouldn't be, not yet, anyway.

Why else would there be CP's?

So, I finished it, sent it to one CP and got it back and kicked my butt getting her suggestions and changes done. Do I feel good about it? Honestly?

Yes.

I think it's a strong story that shows that just because you don't look the part doesn't mean you can't do the job.

So it's off to the second CP. We'll see what she thinks and move on from there. The goal is to sub it before the end of the year.

Wish me luck.

Toodles.

I sent it in!

As some of you know, I decided to enter a contest.

Now, that being said, I've never been one to enter contests. Heck, when it comes to putting my name in the hat for random drawings, I'm never too lucky.

But my luck isn't at stake here. My story is. And what is that story?

Do You Want to Know a Secret?

What's it about?

Pennelope had a blast at her Halloween party the night prior with her best friend. When she hunts for her little black cat, Fang, she's in for the biggest trick or is it treat of her life.

So where do you go to see it?

Here: http://mistressbellashalloweenbash.blogspot.com/2009/10/in-celebration-of-halloween.html

Yes, Mistress Bella's Halloween Contest.

I'm not totally sure how the public voting will go, but I do hope (though I don't want to seem tacky) that you'll vote for my story Do You Want to Know a Secret?

I know the contest entries end on October 28th and the winner will be announced on November 1st. Mistress Bella's even having a day-long celebration on October 31st for the contest and that holiday... what is it... oh yeah, Halloween.

I'll post updates as I get them.

Toodles.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Spare Time... What's that?

So I, like a lot of other people don't have much spare time. I write, yes, but I also have to do other things to bring in a little cash and to keep myself sane. I know, sanity... what's that?

I do craft shows. As a matter of fact, I have one today. Will I do well? In this economy... um... many and maybe not. Some people think crafts are extras and others think they NEED them. I would like to think everyone needs some crafts in their lives... especially if I make them. But I understand that milk is more important than a knick knack.

So, until the show is over or I make a zillion bucks selling my next big novel... I'm off to sell and then work on my WIP.

Toodles.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Funny

Ever heard something that just made you laugh you buns off? I mean something too true it's hysterical?

I have two and I need to share because they are too funny. Thanks of course to M and K who told me.

"I had to explain the little squiggle over the n to my Spanish students. One means I am seventeen years old. The other way means I have seventeen butt holes."

I took more years of Spanish than I'd like to admit to, and this was too true. Then again, I once told my Spanish prof in college that I didn't have a spare tire in my car. I have no idea what he asked me, but I said no and everyone laughed. Thank Goodness I don't need too much Spanish right now or I'd be locked in the potty without a way out.

The second one... well... it fits me when certain people try to tell me something that's either A) really technical or B) they mumble.

"Hahahahahahaha... wait,... what?"

Yep. That's me. I think I know the joke and then I second guess or worse, I never got it in the first place. Yep. I get the "duh..." a lot.

But then again, there is the scene of the skunky dog running rampant through a house and everything in the house sorta wilting... I was so there. But as bad as it was, it was also funny cause at least she didn't actually run through the house (the stench did), and it wasn't my fault.

At least I have a sense of humor. Any funny things you heard recently? Let me know. I'm counting this as one of those times I really should be writing and instead am fooling around doing something innocuous like twiddling with a blog.

Toodles!

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

When Life Gives You Lemons.. err I Mean Skunks...

Now I must admit early on that a good friend of mine has a great story about a skunk shifter. It's a cute little love story that she outlined, but I'm not sure she's written yet.

That being said, I've decided that skunks, no matter how cute they are in stories or books, ARE NOT MY FRIENDS.

Why?

Ummm... Let me just say that the dog went out in our back yard and decided that it would be a pleasure to chase a critter of the night. When she returned to the house, not only did she get a stern talking to, but she graced us with a FOUL stench. Yup, whatever she chased stunk like skunk and wild critter.

Let me tell you, writing romance while the house reeked of skunk DOESN'T work. Nope. Not romantic in the least.

So, I think I'll work on edits tomorrow and hope my massive Febreeze and Oust offensive got rid of the lingering memories.

Toodles.

Monday, October 19, 2009

A Fresh Perspective

So the Halloween short is done. Its with the CP.

Well a funny thing happened on my way to sleep last night. Yep. I must do my best thinking once I turn out the darned light because no matter how pooped I am, I can't turn my brain off and I come up with new story ideas.

Or in this case, I figured out a new way to take a rejected (asked for resub) story. That's right. I came up with a new story angle and I actually LIKE it. Sure, it's a bit toned down and will be shorter than the original, but if its stronger, than shorter it is.

I got lots of great advice from my blog readers and friends and was able to put most of it into practice, which is great. Everyone should have such great friends and readers.

So now I'm off to work on an edit (for a hopeful submission) and a rewrite that I'm jazzed to write.

Toodles.

So I Tried Something New

Yep. I tried something new.

You may be wondering... new food? new sport? (Umm, if it's not cars going around in circles, preferably on dirt... then I'm probably not there, but I am gaining an affinity for hockey.) new outfit?

Sorry, but none of the above.

I wrote something for a contest.

I'm super protective of my work. I know it needs critiqued and I know it will be shredded (I'm also of the opinion that a good, blunt CP who can tell you straight what needs fixed is a Godsend). Does that bother me? Nope, because what doesn't drive me crazy will make the work stronger and better.

But still...

Would they like it? I'm not versed in writing paranormal, so would they laugh at it? Is the thing too contrived to be taken seriously?

Yep. All these things ran through my mind. (Did I mention I'm a worrier? Oh yeah, I am SO there.)

So, I pushed that aside, ran the idea for the story by a CP I trust very much, knuckled down, wrote the story, and sent it off to another trusty CP. Yep, I'm treating it like I'm sending it off to an editor.

What will she think? I have no idea. The first CP liked the idea, but I've learned that what one person loves and makes them cry is the ONE THING that another person HATES.

But if she thinks it's worthy of contest entrance, then I'm golden.

More details later, as I don't want to embarrass myself if the story really does suck.

Toodles.

Friday, October 16, 2009

A Quandary

Every so often, you get to that point where you aren't sure what to do.

A quandary.

Well, I am SO there.

I have a finished MS that I love. The characters are a bit confusing because of the situation they are in. I know this and am ready to fix the issues.

BUT

I don't want to totally change the MS because I like it. Does that mean it doesn't have room for improvement? Quite the opposite. If the story will get better, then I'm all for a change.

I have some very much trusted colleagues and friends who argue I should take the thing elsewhere. Others in this group think I should forge ahead with the changes and try again. Both sides are valid suggestions and both sides mean well.

Still, where is the line? Where is the point where you keep what you have and take your chances or you change to the point of losing your voice? I am the first to say the story needs some changes. I am also the first to say I don't know everything there is to know about writing. I'm not sure I'm ready to rewrite the blasted thing just to make someone else happy and I'm not totally sure I want to leave it if it can't be enjoyed by others.

Oy!

Now I know that sounds sort of fork tongued. In a sense, it is. I want my story to keep its integrity, but I want it to see the light of publication.

Double oy!

What do I want to do?

Ugh. I'm not sure.

I think I'll think on it and try for an answer by the end of the week.

What do you think? I'd love your input.

Toodles.

Monday, October 12, 2009

I'm not much for teasers, but this sounded fun

It's Teaser Tuesdays, a weekly bookish meme hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Everyone's invited to play along! (Okay, I really got this from Marianne Arkin's blog and thought it was cool.)

Here are the rules:

Grab your current read

Open to a random page

Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)

Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

Mine is this (and yes, I posted a different one on M's blog):

"In an hour then," he reaffirmed. "It will be nice to merely visit rather than snipe at each other."

But sniping at him was so much fun, especially considering that she detested him.
Page 85 of Heat Seeker by Lora Leigh

So what's in your TBR pile?

Sunday, October 11, 2009

JA Saare - Another Author You Should Know!

There are a few authors that come along that are ones you need to read their body of work. JA Saare is one of those authors. She's stopping by today to share an interview for her paranormal book tour. You can follow her at: http://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2009/09/virtual-book-tour-j-saares-paranomal.html



J. A. will be giving away a $10 Amazon.com gift certificate to one randomly drawn commenter from the tour and a $25 Amazon.com GC to the tour host with the most comments, excluding duplicates or J. A.’s responses.


Here's her interview. Welcome JA!


1. Describe your writing environment.

My office is referred to as “the cave” by my family. It’s in the corner portion of the basement and is the room that is used for severe weather (think hermit dwellings). My desk is large and curves around the wall. It’s a great thing because it allows me to flip to and from the laptop so I can jot down random ideas or check my email (I prefer to write on my PC). When I start writing, I pull my knees into my chest, get set in my chair, and choose a list from my itunes. That’s how I’ll stay–barring a trip for a drink or the restroom–until I’ve either met my word count for the night or finished my goal.

Since the winter is coming, you can add a blanket to the above mentioned room. I’m terrible about carrying around a blankie when it’s cold. Just call me Linus.



2. Where do you get your ideas for your work?

Most of the time, they come when I’m listening to music. I’ll see a scene in my head, or a character will begin to develop. Most of the time, I try to shirk it, as I have too many unfinished projects as is. But more often than not, I’ll end up writing a brief synopsis of my rambling and appease that inner voice until I have the chance to put something to paper.



3. Which authors do you admire and why?

There are so many! And after discovering how hard it is to do networking, promo, and finding the time to write at all, my respect has risen to the rafters! One author I’ve been supporting rather vocally is Joey W. Hill. I just can’t say enough about the Lady. She writes beautifully, and she is so incredible humble and gracious. I honestly wonder how she does it. She writes such incredible stories, yet keeps in touch with her fans and responds to emails personally.

Another author I love is Patricia Briggs. She writes some amazing stuff, and has done so without gratuitous amounts of sex. That’s not to say sex in literature is a bad thing, but reading work that gives just as much heat using sensuality alone is extremely refreshing. If you haven’t read the Mercy Thompson series, I highly recommend them! There is no sexier male alpha than Adam Hauptman. I don’t think I’ve ever wanted a werewolf so badly! The focus is on him as a man that just happens to be a werewolf. Not his equipment. *smile*



4. Any tips or suggestions for new writers?




Most of the things other writers recommend have merit, aka critique groups and online classes. But the generally accepted rule of thumb I abide by is write, write, and write. And read, read, and read. Daily if you can. I recently went back and studied some of my earlier stuff, and it’s just terrible. It’s amazing how a writers mind and style will evolve as they learn and grow.

With that said…

When I started, I went the recommended route by sending off my first story to agents and e-pubs and continued working on my second book. When I finished the second, I started all over again, submitting and starting on the third story in my brain. When I was offered a contract for my first story, I was ecstatic. Then I got an offer on the next. And then on the third…Suddenly I realized those free days and nights of writing whenever the mood struck were long gone.

So my primary suggestion would be to set a schedule now, while you’re fresh in the game. Make sure you allow for free time to take care of promos, blogs, and networking. You’ll be shocked by the amount of work it takes to get recognition. And even worse, at how much time the process of promotion will take from any actual ‘writing’. Being prepared from the beginning will help future frustration immensely.

5. What's your best childhood memory?

When I was eleven years old, my Mom and Dad bundled my sister and I up on Christmas morning and told us we were driving to my Aunt Laura’s home in the county. My parents were rather secretive about it all, saying only that she had presents for us that had to be shared at her farm. When we pulled past the fence and drove onto her property, there were the usual chickens, dogs, and cats scattered about. But just to the right, tethered to the rail my Aunt used when they had the horses saddled to bring in the cows, was this beautiful brown Welsh pony with a big red bow around her neck.

I had begged for a horse as a girl for years (I think that’s fairly common) but I never thought I would get my wish. My Aunt came outside, led me over and showed me my new bridle, saddle, boots, and helmet, and said she was mine. Princess was the best Christmas present I’ve ever received. It’s a very fond memory.

6. Are you a people-watcher? If so, tell us a funny or interesting story about someone you saw.

Okay, if you can’t laugh at yourself, who can you laugh at? *snickers* Born and bred in Alabama, I live in the midst of rednecks, and there is no better place to observe an Alabamian than in their natural habitat–Wal-Mart.

You can find the best and the worst in humanity each and every year on Black Friday when those gates to Hell (aka those electronic doors) swing wide. I’ve seen grown women fight over the last discounted Barbie doll, and men carrying the maximum ten-per-customer boxes with portable DVD players while some poor guy that wants one for his son or daughter is told they are all gone.

On a positive note, the woman that fought over the last Barbie was put in her place when a woman that was purchasing the dolls for her grandchildren removed one of the three from her cart, handed it to the manhandled woman that was left empty-handed, and gave the perpetrator a lesson in manners!

Thanks for having me on the blog, I really appreciate it!
Jaime



Here's the blurb for her book, Moon Kissed.


When Kassia Lambert wakes in a nice warm bed, alive and intact, she can’t believe her good fortune. She should be dead, considering she was sent head first into brick and mortar. So why isn’t she?

Lycae Adam Trevlian has waited three long years to claim his mate, a human that battles for the Thymeria vampires. After he saves her life, he brings her with him, intent on doing just that. But betrayal and heartbreak is hard to overcome, and even with the kiss of the moon on his side, Adam knows Kassia may or may not forgive his past mistakes.

Moon Kissed Excerpt:

“Back off,” I snarled and started to leap onto the bed, mortified by the memory and my response to him.

His hand shot out, negating my progress. He guided me back against the wall and stood in front of me, his massive body blocking out the room behind him. The scent was stronger with the source so near, swamping me, encasing me, and I had to bite down hard on my lower lip to silence the moan that threatened to slip past. I slammed my eyes shut to block him out in the only way I could.

“Do you want to know who killed Demetrius?” His words, spoken in a husky timbre, were accompanied by his warm breath against my face. “Aren’t you curious?”

My entire body melted at the verbal caress, and a dumb nod was all I was capable of.

“I did,” he whispered thickly, violently. “I ripped out his goddamned throat before I severed his fucking spine.”

My eyes flew open, and I stammered, “W-what?”

Lycae did not get involved with the Thymeria without the promise of compensation. They detested the blood drinkers, thinking them little more than cold-blooded parasites. If Adam killed Demetrius, he would be owed a heavy boon.

“That’s right,” Adam murmured as I caught on, and he brushed his nose lightly against mine. “Since I relieved the Thymeria of their burden, they relinquished what I desired most.”

He pulled away to look me in the eye, and I blurted, “I don’t understand.”

His warm fingers wound into the hair at my nape, twining gently into the thick blonde strands. “The Thymeria knew of my intentions. That’s why they waited until you were twenty-one to send you after their most sought after Fallen. They banked on the fact I would be there, and that I’d kill the fucking bastard if he so much as touched you.” My hitched gasp of surprise amused him. “You shouldn’t be surprised, love. Vampires are shrewd creatures, if anything.”

As he spoke, I found myself moving closer to his enticing warmth, drawn to the cadence of his speech. His lips appeared so full and soft, so tempting . . .

Damn it! I cursed myself, shaking my head to clear my mind and ripping my eyes away from his sublime face to stare blankly at the wooden floor. My body refused to settle despite my best effort. My breasts felt heavy, my nipples going hard as the soft cotton shirt brushed painfully against the agonized flesh.

“Why would you follow me?” I choked out the question in the same instant I thought it. Distraught by the reaction he produced in me. “You made your feelings clear in New Orleans. Nothing’s changed.”

I tried to move to freedom and was rewarded with Adam’s impressive body pressing flush against me. My knees gave out with the contact of his heated skin, and he wrapped a strong arm around my waist to keep me upright.

“That’s where you’re wrong, Kass,” he rasped and nuzzled my neck, sending vibrations along the nerve endings and creating a scattering of goose bumps along the surface. He brushed his mouth against my ear and whispered, “Everything’s changed.”

Our eyes met, hunter green clashing with mushroom blue, and I froze, unable to move as his face descended, coming closer, then closer . . .

His lips were softer than I’d believed them, and far more gentle than I’d imagined. My eyes fluttered closed, and I moaned when his tongue slid past and caressed mine, darting in tenderly before retreating and coming back once more. Already frazzled senses heightened, allowing me to revel in the smell, taste, and feel of him. Eager and wanton hands caressed the hot smooth skin along his back without shame, fingers delving into solid and unyielding muscle.

He pulled away, breathing heavy, and whispered possessively, “You are mine now. The Thymeria have severed the tie and have placed you into my keeping. You’re of proper age to claim and take as a mate, and that is exactly what I intend to do. I’ve waited far too long for you.”

The words had meaning, but they didn’t compute, buzzing through one ear and out of the other. My mind couldn’t fathom anything but the man directly in front of me. I’d fantasized about Adam for so long I wondered if I had died and went to some eroticized version of heaven.

His laugh was rich, throaty, and deep. “You’re not in heaven, love. Not yet.”
More excerpts:
“Lick of Frost”Onyx “The Ice Princess”
Blackthorn has yearned for the nearness of another for two centuries. Cursed after she shunned the advances of a lovelorn wizard and felled him with a cursed blade, she ventures to New Orleans with his coven, desperate to put an end to the isolation that is slowly killing her.
“Soft as Moonlight”
Lycae Wolfe Trevlian returns to New Orleans after a lengthy self imposed absence with one goal – to appease the vampyren harboring a grudge against his kin so he can leave as soon as possible. Bitter memories linger in the Big Easy, memories best left in the past. Fortunately, the agreement with the vampyren is simple – destroy the creature killing off their brethren, and the death of their Master is forgiven.
“Moon Kissed”
When Kassia Lambert wakes in a nice warm bed, alive and intact, she can’t believe her good fortune. She should be dead, considering she was sent head first into brick and mortar. So why isn’t she?
“A Kiss Before Dying”
Katja Morgan has committed the ultimate taboo in the life of a blood slave; she has fallen in love with her master. Vampire Lord Sebastian Arsov is everything she has ever wanted - gorgeous, sexy, intelligent, kind. As their time together nears an end, she carefully constructs the ruse that will allow her to belong to her shellar in both body and soul.But sharing an evening with her beloved comes at a high price - the cost of her life.

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Eye Candy Part Twenty-Six



Where can you find a man with a sexy accent who prefers to play parts where the character is a writer? And where can you find said man who also knows how to use his hands? And do you think he'd have a brother who's hot in his own right?

Then you just might have Joseph Fiennes.


This Irish hottie makes my blood sizzle. As I've said, I'm a sucker for eyes. The guy has to have eyes that just draw you in. This picture makes me shiver.




His mom was a writer. He's a fraternal twin. He rock climbs. Can you ask for more?


He toyed with the idea of being a painter and carries a sketch book. Oooh, he'd make a great subject or an even better hungry artist.


I got these quotes from ImDb, but I think they are great and can be applied to writing so well:


I've always believed that you shouldn't want to mend a broken heart, because that's someone you don't want to forget. Scars can be good.


It takes years to establish yourself, and then you have one big film and everyone calls you an overnight success. You think, 'Christ, I've been sweating and crying for seven years.'
"Who has gone through their lives without those ups and downs, whether they are a journalist or an actor or a painter or an accountant? There are always going to be times when it doesn't flow as much as you were hoping. So of course I'm going to fail. And when I do fail I hope I fail better and better, again and again. I am happy to fail."

How can you ask for more?
Enjoy the view.
I am.

JA Saare - Moon Kiss - You Gotta Read This Book

JA Saare stops by the blog tomorrow for an interview. Speaking that I loved A Kiss Before Dying, I can attest to this author being one you need to know!

Moon Kiss Blurb:

When Kassia Lambert wakes in a nice warm bed, alive and intact, she can’t believe her good fortune. She should be dead, considering she was sent head first into brick and mortar. So why isn’t she?

Lycae Adam Trevlian has waited three long years to claim his mate, a human that battles for the Thymeria vampires. After he saves her life, he brings her with him, intent on doing just that. But betrayal and heartbreak is hard to overcome, and even with the kiss of the moon on his side, Adam knows Kassia may or may not forgive his past mistakes.

Moon Kissed Excerpt:

“Back off,” I snarled and started to leap onto the bed, mortified by the memory and my response to him.

His hand shot out, negating my progress. He guided me back against the wall and stood in front of me, his massive body blocking out the room behind him. The scent was stronger with the source so near, swamping me, encasing me, and I had to bite down hard on my lower lip to silence the moan that threatened to slip past. I slammed my eyes shut to block him out in the only way I could.

“Do you want to know who killed Demetrius?” His words, spoken in a husky timbre, were accompanied by his warm breath against my face. “Aren’t you curious?”

My entire body melted at the verbal caress, and a dumb nod was all I was capable of.

“I did,” he whispered thickly, violently. “I ripped out his goddamned throat before I severed his fucking spine.”

My eyes flew open, and I stammered, “W-what?”

Lycae did not get involved with the Thymeria without the promise of compensation. They detested the blood drinkers, thinking them little more than cold-blooded parasites. If Adam killed Demetrius, he would be owed a heavy boon.

“That’s right,” Adam murmured as I caught on, and he brushed his nose lightly against mine. “Since I relieved the Thymeria of their burden, they relinquished what I desired most.”

He pulled away to look me in the eye, and I blurted, “I don’t understand.”

His warm fingers wound into the hair at my nape, twining gently into the thick blonde strands. “The Thymeria knew of my intentions. That’s why they waited until you were twenty-one to send you after their most sought after Fallen. They banked on the fact I would be there, and that I’d kill the fucking bastard if he so much as touched you.” My hitched gasp of surprise amused him. “You shouldn’t be surprised, love. Vampires are shrewd creatures, if anything.”

As he spoke, I found myself moving closer to his enticing warmth, drawn to the cadence of his speech. His lips appeared so full and soft, so tempting . . .

Damn it! I cursed myself, shaking my head to clear my mind and ripping my eyes away from his sublime face to stare blankly at the wooden floor. My body refused to settle despite my best effort. My breasts felt heavy, my nipples going hard as the soft cotton shirt brushed painfully against the agonized flesh.

“Why would you follow me?” I choked out the question in the same instant I thought it. Distraught by the reaction he produced in me. “You made your feelings clear in New Orleans. Nothing’s changed.”

I tried to move to freedom and was rewarded with Adam’s impressive body pressing flush against me. My knees gave out with the contact of his heated skin, and he wrapped a strong arm around my waist to keep me upright.

“That’s where you’re wrong, Kass,” he rasped and nuzzled my neck, sending vibrations along the nerve endings and creating a scattering of goose bumps along the surface. He brushed his mouth against my ear and whispered, “Everything’s changed.”

Our eyes met, hunter green clashing with mushroom blue, and I froze, unable to move as his face descended, coming closer, then closer . . .

His lips were softer than I’d believed them, and far more gentle than I’d imagined. My eyes fluttered closed, and I moaned when his tongue slid past and caressed mine, darting in tenderly before retreating and coming back once more. Already frazzled senses heightened, allowing me to revel in the smell, taste, and feel of him. Eager and wanton hands caressed the hot smooth skin along his back without shame, fingers delving into solid and unyielding muscle.

He pulled away, breathing heavy, and whispered possessively, “You are mine now. The Thymeria have severed the tie and have placed you into my keeping. You’re of proper age to claim and take as a mate, and that is exactly what I intend to do. I’ve waited far too long for you.”

The words had meaning, but they didn’t compute, buzzing through one ear and out of the other. My mind couldn’t fathom anything but the man directly in front of me. I’d fantasized about Adam for so long I wondered if I had died and went to some eroticized version of heaven.

His laugh was rich, throaty, and deep. “You’re not in heaven, love. Not yet.”

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Phyllis Levine - Another Author You Should Know



Phyllis Levine is a dear friend and a hardworking author of the Matilda series. While she doesn't consider her works romance, but rather fiction. She feels the books show one way of living and good ethics with a romantic twist.


I asked her to spend some time talking about her work, available through Wasteland Press or it can be ordered through Barnes and Noble or Amazon. You can visit her at her website: http://www.phyllislevine.us/


Here's her interview:

Do you ever suffer from writer’s block? If so, what do you do about it?

1. Yes, I have, but when this happens, I leave the story and do something else and sure enough my mind will click and it's then I resume writing.

Which come first, the characters or the plot?

2. In my case, it was the character which came first.

What are you reading now?
3.I just finished reading a biography on Barbra Streisand. Occasionally, I enjoy a biography because I have always been fascinated by how a person accomplishes his/her goals.

How do you come up with the titles to your books?

4. My titles have come from an event, a goal that my protagonist seeks, or a particular place in the book. In my second book "At the Skylight with Matilda," "The Skylight" is named for a hotel that involves my main character, Matilda.

What inspired you to write your first book?

5. I was inspired to write my first book, Matilda because while teaching, I felt that my ninth grade students could use a good nanny because many suffered from their parents' separation, divorce, lack of love, or any direction from an adult in their lives.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

6. My writing quirk is a character in my books who I would like for a friend in real life. This character makes me laugh out loud and has an attitude that I'd like to have. She is trustworthy and gives me a lift.

What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

7. When not writing, I walk in the park and enjoy nature, or spend time with my dog Beau, a Boston Terrier, who I adore being with.

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Eye Candy Part Twenty Five






Okay, I love to look at the hunks on television. I also love CSI: Miami. When I noticed the latest edition and episode... yes, I took notice.

Eddie Cibrian.



Now, I love Wolfe (Jonathan Togo). He'll always be my favorite on CSI, but you can't NOT notice this shot... Whew!

Now I don't know about his love life (and yes, I looked, but didn't feel it was my place to spread rumor or innuendo.)

So why not just stop and enjoy the six pack. And yes... I'd love to (As Kealie put it) toboggan down those curves.



Gotta love a guy so at ease with his body.









Friday, October 2, 2009

Red Hot Reads for October Nights - the September edition

I forgot to post this while it was still September. Sorry!

Here are my suggestions for some Red Hot Reads. You won't want to miss these fabulous authors and fun reads.

A Kiss Before Dying - J.A. Saare - Amira Press
Sometimes love is enough to sustain even the frailest relationships. When love is a part of the strong relationships, the couple can survive for all time. There are some novellas that just seem to stay with you long after the last page. A Kiss Before Dying is one of those novellas.

A Witch’s Beauty - Joey W. Hill - Berkley Sensation
Beauty and acceptance are all around, but it takes a special trust, a special love to bring it forth.
Ms. Hill writes an entire complex world within a few pages and draws the reader in from the first word. A Witch’s Beauty is one of those novels that stays with you far beyond the last page. You want to see these characters come together for a greater good, but you also want to see them fight beyond their differences and find the love that will bind them together. While this story may not be for the reader seeking a breezy, fun novel, you won’t want to miss it either.


Getting Lucky - Carolyn Brown - Casablanca, Sourcebooks, Inc.
She’s been burned in love by lies. He’s been burned in relationships by loveless women. What happens when they end up thrown together by fate? She’ll get a run for her money. As for Griffin, he’s Getting Lucky.
Ms. Brown writes witty characters that stay with the reader long after the novel ends. You want to see them fight, laugh, love, and succeed in their lives. You feel a part of the story as well. You can almost smell the hay, corn, and live stock. The details set the mood for the story.

Simon Says Mommy - Kay Stockham - Harlequin Enterprises, Ltd.
He needs another set of arms in his life. She needs a job and to reconnect with her sister. When he comes into her life offering a solution, what’s a girl to say? Well, read Simon Says Mommy and find out.
Ms. Stockham scores another great story with this novel. We meet yet another of the Tulanes, Dr. Ethan. I loved how the stories intertwined with earlier characters. From page one until the end, I couldn’t put this novel down.

I'm looking forward to the next Love at First Bite by Kimberly Raye, entitled Cody as well as Lora Leigh's Heatseeker and Hot for the Holidays. I can't wait to read JR Ward's new book, Covet: A Novel of the Fallen Angels, Carly Phillips new book Lucky Break, as well as LL Foster's Servant: The Kindred and Carolyn Brown's Lucky in Love.

Have fun and Happy Reading!

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Ummmm....

Have you ever felt in the lurch? You really want to know something, but no matter how hard you try, you just can't find out what you need.

I'm so there.

I have a couple of projects in the works that need conclusions. I have a love scene that really needs to be finished, but it's not happening. I have a vampire who'd probably love to finally be with his mate, now that she's his mate, but they aren't together at the moment.

I'm lousy with patience and I'm no good at waiting. I'm trying to keep myself busy with the other stuff until the ultimate decisions. Yes, this is God's way of telling me to be patient, humble, and all that, but it's still hard.

So I'll go back to my Arca Remax race and hope that Parker Klugerman (I might have spelled his name wrong) wins because he's my champion in this series.

Toodles for now.

Monday, September 28, 2009

Anida Adler - The Ancient - You Gotta Read It!


Meet author Anida Adler! Her book The Ancient came out September 15th from Loose ID. Sound interesting? Then read on! You won't want to miss this fabulous writer!




In keeping with the Irish theme to her story, Anida will be giving away a Shannon O'Shamrock bear to one randomly drawn commenter from the tour, so be sure to comment early and often!




Here's a great interview with Anida Adler.

1. Describe your writing environment.

Until we moved house in September, the desktop computer stood next to the television in our sitting room, and I wore headphones, listening to loud music, when I needed to write and either the kids or my husband wanted to watch TV. I got the netbook I'm working on, sitting in a cafe in town, at the moment. The reason for that was because I work pretty much all the time, and with the netbook, I could sit beside my man while he watched the box. That way I could be close to him without having to stop working.

We moved house recently, and I now have a wonderful workspace in front of a window that overlooks the Cooley Mountains. More space, yippee! It also helps my eyes to be able to look out of the window every now and then. I'm so far too poor to afford a nice flat screen, so when I work at the desktop I have to wear glasses, and I have to watch out for eye strain.

2. Where do you get your ideas for your work?

That's almost impossible to tell. Out of probably about twelve novels I've written, I can only remember the seeds that gave birth to two of those. The rest I couldn't tell you if I tried.

With my very first one, I created a fantasy world that was a translation of the isolation I felt as a brainy girl growing up in a very working class environment. I'm sure many people feel that they are alone inside their heads, looking out at the world, no matter how close they may be to other people. I don't make friends easily, and when I tried earlier this year to make a deliberate effort to socialise more and maintain more friendships than I had before, I became desperately unhappy. I've now made peace with the fact that I prefer having a few close friends instead of a plethora of superficial friendships.

The other novel whose birth I can remember vividly is The Pebble, my novel published through Amira Press under author name Nadia Williams. I was cycling towards Warrenpoint along the shore of Carlingford Lough when I became aware... let me stop here. I know the difference between fantasy and reality, but for me, fantasy is so vivid that I prefer leaving out the 'I imagined' or 'I thought'. So just bear with me here. I became aware of my bicycle's spirit forming an elated bubble around me, gaining life from my enjoyment of the cycling. This got me brooding out a scenario where a woman bought a bicycle which was possessed by a spirit from someone who lived long ago - of course, it would be a sexy hunk. But how would his spirit have got into the bicycle? I pondered the possibility of the ore which made the frame having contained a stone to which his spirit had been banished by a witch. If you read The Pebble, you can see how far the eventual plot strayed from that initial story idea, but it might also be interesting to see the remnants of the first imaginings still embedded in its foundation.

3. Which authors do you admire and why?

There are a few authors I really love, because their books leave me silent, stunned and withdrawn when I finish. I am, however, really pathetic with remembering author names. Even so, I have a few favourites: Terry Pratchett, James Morrow (though I've only read 'The Last Witchfinder' so far), Tricia Sullivan (who is also a cyber-friend of mine), David Gemmel, Diana Wynne-Jones. I'm bound to think of a few more as soon as I've sent you the answers to these questions and can't add more!

4. Any tips or suggestions for new writers?

This is not the first time I've been asked this question since starting my mini-tour for The Ancient, and in truth, it makes me feel uncomfortable. I feel as if I'm a beginner myself, as I never stop trying to learn more, trying to write better. My good friend Mike Stone, also an author, was the first to gently chide me for still calling myself a beginner, and I know few other writers consider me to be one.

What I told a new group of teens at the Apple Tree Foundation, where I lead a writers' workshop on a voluntary basis, was this:
a. Cut out adverbs. It forces the rest of your writing to be stronger.
b. Read 'The Turkey City Lexicon' http://www.sfwa.org/2009/06/turkey-city-lexicon-a-primer-for-sf-workshops/
c. Read 'Holt's Ten Mistakes' http://www.holtuncensored.com/hu/the-ten-mistakes/
d. Read 'Everything you need to know about writing successfully in ten minutes' by Stephen King http://mikeshea.net/Everything_You_Need_to_Kn.html

I gave a different answer to this question every time I answered it, I think, but there is just so much you need to know if you want to write stories other people will want to read, and enjoy reading. I would also wager each author you speak to would give you a different answer to that, though there might be similarities. Listen to all of them, and try their advice before discarding it. Take the adverbs thing, for instance: when I was first told this by my dear first writing mentor, Pat Jacobs, I thought it was stupid, but I trusted her, so I just did it. I couldn't believe the amazing effect it had on my writing. You have to give something that might not sound right, a shot before you decide it doesn't work for you. Unless it threatens your voice... urgh, there is just so, so much to say, all the lessons I learned over about six years of working at writing the way other people work at a fulltime job, and this answer is getting too long.

5. What's your best childhood memory?

This http://nadiawilliams.wordpress.com/2009/09/17/small-adventure/ (Thank God, a short answer, I can hear you think. Well, wait until you follow the link :P)

6. Are you a people-watcher? If so, tell us a funny or interesting story about someone you saw.

I love watching people, but the story that comes to mind is one I heard from someone else. I'm in fact not sure if it's true. A very abusive woman walked into a Tesco (big supermarket chain in Ireland and the UK) with her two children. She was truly horrible to staff and other customers alike, loud and rude. When she got to the checkout, the youngster at the till asked: "Are your kids twins?"
"No, you moron. How can you think they're twins? Are you blind or just stupid? They're not the same age and they don't even look alike."
"Oh," he replied calmly. "I just thought they were twins, 'cause I couldn't imagine anyone shagging you twice."

Want to know more about The Ancient? Here's the blurb and a fun excerpt:

Blurb:

What would you do if you fell in love with the goddess of death?

June 1945 - Tadhg Daniels sees a woman clad in strange clothes and a feathered cloak, but she’s invisible to everyone else. He’s convinced his mind has been unhinged by the horrors of the D-day landings four days before, but when she appears to him again, the woman proves she is real. She is Morrigan, goddess of death, come to warn him his life is about to end.

Morrigan is disturbed by the man she meets. He looks in her eyes unflinching, while all others avoid her gaze. She’s never found such a strong will to survive in any of her charges before. He refuses to accept he’s going to die.

There is a way for Tadhg to cheat death, a secret Morrigan has guarded for millennia. Morrigan can save him if she takes him as her lover, but sex with the goddess of death will change him. He needs time to decide if he’s prepared to give up his humanity in order to be with her forever.

But Tadhg is not the only one who knows Morrigan’s secret. Someone else wants to take by force the gift she can bestow. And he’ll stop at nothing to get it.

Excerpt 2:

“Look above you.” He searched the ceiling. “No, I mean at the bedstead.”

Tadhg shuffled his elbow under him and studied the ornate wrought-iron metalwork. For a moment, he didn’t know what she meant, then he saw the chains and blanched. He turned to Morrigán. “No. The shackles in that poem were a metaphor, Morrigán. I don’t do that sort of thing.” Except in his fantasies, but he’d die if she discovered that.

“I’m not asking you to. The shackles are not to bring pleasure to either of us, it is for my protection.”

He frowned and sat up. “Your protection? What the hell kind of man do you think I am?”

“I’m sure you’re very honourable. I told you, the change you’ll go through will be difficult. Just because I’m immortal doesn’t mean I can’t hurt and bleed.”

Tadhg felt cold dread trickle from his scalp down his neck and over his shoulders. What was he letting himself in for? He remembered the panicked feeling of his lungs filling with blood, the horror of his airway blocked. He lay back, stretched out his arms. Then he closed his eyes and slipped his wrists into the old-fashioned shackles hanging from chains on the bedstead. Every muscle in his body was tense as a bowstring.

He heard the rustle of fabric as she came closer, felt the dip of the mattress as she knelt beside him, making the sheet slide over his skin with a tantalising brush. For a moment, he wanted to snatch his arms from the shackles, but he forced himself to keep still as Morrigán closed first one, then the other bond, slipping the pins that held them fast.

The sound sent a rush of blood to his cock.