Thursday, September 30, 2010
A Review! A Review!
I thought I'd share this with you all. Pretty good, well, I think it is. Seriously Reviewed gave Must Be Doing Something Right 15.5 out of 20. Not bad.
"Cute, Quick and to the point."
"The sex was rockin’"
"Her issues with “men” was plausible so his deception was real and I could understand her issue with it.
All in all, a good short, fast paced read that was worth it :)"
Not to shabby. Not too shabby.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Blue Light Special with Mysti Holiday
She's back! Welcome my pal, Mysti Holiday! I know I gave you some doozy questions, but I know you're up to the task.
Time to get down to brass tacks. Why write erotic romance?
I love romance... so the “romance” part is just a given. I seldom read anything that doesn’t have romance in it (even Dean Koontz includes romance in his books ... he’s no fool). Why erotic? Because it’s fun! Sex is awesome and sex in erotic romance is always good (the man always knows how to make his woman orgasm ... many times more than once, right?), and it’s something that feeds every reader’s fantasy, don’t you think?
Ah, yes, fantasy is important. But since my muses are acting up, I thought I'd ask you, where do you get your ideas?
From the idea store... we have one right down the street. ;-) You, too? :)
Okay, really, the fact is I don’t need an idea store because ideas are everywhere. Just look around ... see that lady over there? Why is she sad? Or that guy sitting on the bench in the mall all alone. Is he waiting for someone? Will she ever show up? Or the couple who go to the local cemetery every week. What are they doing? Look in the newspaper, the TV, the back of your cereal box. Writer’s brains are wired differently than non-writers, I think. We see a story in everything.
There are stories overfloweth, it's a matter of jotting them down so they aren't forgotten. Now I always wonder, what WON'T you put in a story?
An unhappy ending. My H/H will never die at the end (ala Nicholas Sparks). I’m not big on hardcore BDSM, so I probably wouldn’t write it ... but aside from the unhappy ending part? I never say never.
Never say never...giggle...ok, then Ms. Never Say Never: to research or not to research the story or toys or whichever?
Depends, really and there are different levels and types of research.
For instance, I have a sister who’s a lesbian in a committed relationship. I can ask her anything I want about a F/F relationship and I call that research.
Do I HAVE to participate in a ménage to write it? Nope, I have one hell of a vivid imagination ... though ... hmmm... I might have to have a little chat with my DH later. ;-)
Toys? Why not get some firsthand research? Even better, it’s a tax write-off!
I love it when we get to the fun stuff. Speaking of fun stuff, music, silence, or white noise? And why?
If I could write in a sound-proof room I would. I prefer absolute silence. I’m very into music, to the point where, when it’s on, I can’t focus on anything else. I can write with instrumental music on, especially if I don’t know the tune, but “can hear a pin drop” silence is best for me.
Oh good thing we aren't working in a room together. You might bop me on the head for being noisy... I do love to break into song when frustrated, 'specially if it's on the itunes. ;-P End this sentence: When I write I absolutely need ____________________
Time. I can’t jump into a story and go. I need time to read back a little and get immersed in the plot and characters again if I want what I write to be in the least bit decent.
I have to go back and re-read, too. Sometimes if I just jump in, I put stuff that was earlier or later in the story and then there's the dreaded repetition. Answer this extremely difficult question/statement: If I could write the next NYT Bestseller, it would be ______________________
Something so completely unusual that people would hold it up as the standard of whatever it was ala “The next ‘Harry Potter’!” or “In the tradition of ‘Twilight’!”.
Interesting take on it. Nice. Now, for more fun things, 'cuz I love having fun, name the oddest thing you've ever used for inspiration.
:::scratches head::: OH... how about the Guinness Book of World Records? Nope, not saying why. ;-)
Yanno, sometimes you take the fun out of things. ::Grumble, grumble:::Won't tell me... sheesh.... Ok, back to zany questions while I lick the wounds on my ego. Name the most mundane thing ever used as inspiration.
Again ... you’re making me think. I suppose it would be my old jobs. Most recently, I used my experiences as a bartender for “Blue Light Special”. I feel like I should say something like “toilet paper” or “my shopping list”, but that would be a lie. Though ... I feel a story coming on...
You could give us a little...glimpse into this story coming on...No? Fine. How about, your favorite date night movie?
“The Princess Bride” or “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” or maybe “The Wedding Singer”. All movies that both genders can enjoy so everyone is happy. That’s a must for date night.
Le sigh, always good choices...Adam Sandler could really work that sort of mullet look. Now if you were stranded and hat to have certain things, finish this statement so we know what to send you with: I can't live without __________________
BOOKS!! And maybe chocolate. Wait ... I should say something mushy here like, “My husband.” Right? But ... well... nope, books. And chocolate. *G*
Girl after my heart, books and chocolate. Add shoes and we'd be in like Flynn. Another fill-in, cuz I'm a brat ( but you knew that): If I could go back and revise my work (Not necessarily BLS) I'd change___________________
The length – of both my published stories. I think I’d like to add more background and more scenes. Deepen things a little, without boring the reader. And there’d be more sex, of course. :-D
More sex is always a good thing. Er.. um... did I just TMI? Oh well. Inquiring minds want to know the first thing you did this morning?
You mean AFTER I got out of bed? Then, I went potty. What? You didn’t?
I have no idea what time I went to bed last night. ((Rubbing Eyes))) oh well. Silly question alert: Ever had a "I shaved my legs for this?" moment? What was it?
The blind date I had with a guy who told me he looked like Riker from Star Trek: The New Generation. He wasn’t *exactly* lying, but what he’d neglected to say was that he was also only about 5’6” tall ... I’m 5’10”. So, yeah, that was doomed from the start.
What about you? I’d love to hear other folks dating disasters!!
Because a dear person and I can't see each other without one, tackle hug or casual handshake? (& why?)
Depends, doesn’t it? Tackle hug for a friend or family member I haven’t seen in a long time. Casual handshake for a new acquaintance or someone I’m just not that close to, emotionally.
Does that mean I get a tackle hug? Hmmmm.....
Visit Mysti at:
Her website: http://www.menagerieauthors.com
Her blog: http://www.menagerieauthors.blogspot.com
Want to know more about Mysti's book, Blue Light Special? Here's the blurb:
When Karin Lattimer moves across the country and her over-protective brother asks his friend Caleb Hawkes to keep an eye on her, she’s more than annoyed…she’s turned on. The attentive cop is a walking wet dream, but Karin knows he’s only hanging around out of a sense of duty. Acting on her crazy attraction would reveal more than the man’s buff body—it would also reveal her heart.
Caleb is well aware that Karin is all woman. He can’t keep his eyes off her and his hands itch to touch her. But she’s not one-night-stand material, and he firmly believes cops make lousy partners for long-term relationships.
Still, thinking clearly isn’t a top priority when Karin and Caleb finally touch. Sparks fly and barriers melt away as easily as their inhibitions, but can she convince him there's more to life than playing it safe?
Want an excerpt? Sure you do!
She grabbed her cell phone and texted him for the eight-hundredth time.
Need ur muscle, u jerk. U scared of me?
She hit send and leaned back in the grass, soaking up the sun and figuring she’d have to take the stupid car to some quick lube place. She couldn’t do it today...not enough time before work to drive into town and back. She’d have to do it tomorrow as soon as she woke up.
A shadow fell across her and she opened her eyes in surprise.
“I’m not scared of you, but you should be a little more careful laying out here in an open invitation.” Caleb shoved his sunglasses up his nose a bit and watched her.
“Open invitation?” Karin snorted. “Besides the fact those ugly hedges are as tall as you and twice as thick, it’s not like I was lying here like this…” She spread her legs and lifted her shirt until the swell of her naked breasts showed at the hem. Caleb’s nostrils flared, and she wished she could see his eyes.
“...or doing this.” She put her index finger into her mouth, sucked on it and then trailed it down her shirt until she found a nipple. Her finger circled the nipple until it poked against the thin cotton tank, then repeated the action on the other one.
“…or sounding like this.” She moaned and squirmed her hips just a bit.
“Jesus, Karin.” He looked around to see if anyone was watching. “You should be illegal.”
Labels:
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Wild Rose Press
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Mysti's Back!
My good friend Mysti Holiday will be here tomorrow talking about her book and answering some wacky questions I came up with. Can't wait til tomorrow to learn about her book, Blue Light Special? Read on, Mac Duff.
When Karin Lattimer moves across the country and her over-protective brother asks his friend Caleb Hawkes to keep an eye on her, she’s more than annoyed…she’s turned on. The attentive cop is a walking wet dream, but Karin knows he’s only hanging around out of a sense of duty. Acting on her crazy attraction would reveal more than the man’s buff body—it would also reveal her heart.
Caleb is well aware that Karin is all woman. He can’t keep his eyes off her and his hands itch to touch her. But she’s not one-night-stand material, and he firmly believes cops make lousy partners for long-term relationships.
Still, thinking clearly isn’t a top priority when Karin and Caleb finally touch. Sparks fly and barriers melt away as easily as their inhibitions, but can she convince him there's more to life than playing it safe?
Want an excerpt? Here you go!
She grabbed her cell phone and texted him for the eight-hundredth time.
Need ur muscle, u jerk. U scared of me?
She hit send and leaned back in the grass, soaking up the sun and figuring she’d have to take the stupid car to some quick lube place. She couldn’t do it today...not enough time before work to drive into town and back. She’d have to do it tomorrow as soon as she woke up.
A shadow fell across her and she opened her eyes in surprise.
“I’m not scared of you, but you should be a little more careful laying out here in an open invitation.” Caleb shoved his sunglasses up his nose a bit and watched her.
“Open invitation?” Karin snorted. “Besides the fact those ugly hedges are as tall as you and twice as thick, it’s not like I was lying here like this…” She spread her legs and lifted her shirt until the swell of her naked breasts showed at the hem. Caleb’s nostrils flared, and she wished she could see his eyes.
“...or doing this.” She put her index finger into her mouth, sucked on it and then trailed it down her shirt until she found a nipple. Her finger circled the nipple until it poked against the thin cotton tank, then repeated the action on the other one.
“…or sounding like this.” She moaned and squirmed her hips just a bit.
“Jesus, Karin.” He looked around to see if anyone was watching. “You should be illegal.”
Labels:
Blog Tour,
Blogging,
Goddess Fish,
Guest Blog,
Mysti Holiday
Monday, September 27, 2010
Mystic Perceptions TODAY!!
Today, Jacqueline Paige, stops by with her book Mystic Perceptions. Want a copy? Click the cover or the title. Want to follow her? Click here. Want to follow her tour? Click here or the tour banners. Oh and don't forget to comment. You can win exciting prizes! But on to our interview!
Thanks for stopping by. Glad you're here. But let't get down to the nitty gritty. How long have you been writing?
I’ve always wrote in one way or another, but I didn’t attempt anything serious until 2005 or somewhere in there.
Hey, when you gotta write, you gotta write. And who says it all has to be serious? Now, what comes first: the plot or the characters?
I think this varies from story to story. Sometimes the perfect character will take form, then I have to find the right story to put them in. Other times an entire plot will pop into my head. I have written on less than that though.
A few times a random scene comes to me (and it’s never related to what I’m working on that moment) so I’ll jot it down and then go back later and try to figure out the before and after. My book that is coming out in October started with the opening scene of someone watching a child grow throughout the years.
Aww. The scene sounds sweet. Now that we know about the characters, what's the skinny on the title? How do you come up with the titles to your books?
Finding the right title can be hard, or so I’ve discovered. I can’t type without a title at the top of the page, I’m not sure why, so after my characters come to life I usually try to figure out the title. I’d like to say I have a system for doing this, but I don’t really. Only a few times have the titles come easy like Beltane Magic and In Our Dream, other than that it’s a long list of words and synonyms to make it the most appealing, yet descriptive title I can come up with.
I find the titles hard to come up with, too. No one ever said writing was easy. What inspired you to write your first book?
In truth, the first one started as a joke. A good friend of mine was going away (for a month) and I knew I was going to die of boredom without her. So I asked her what I was going to do without her for that long so she flippantly told me to ‘write a book’. So I did just that. At first I just started typing, but then the entire story began to come to me and I couldn’t type fast enough. I had no idea of what I was going to write next, even as I was writing it but by the time I was finished (3 weeks later) I had three stories in a series roughly plotted out. The Magic Seasons was born from me trying to get the last laugh. Of course when my friend returned and I sent her the book she had told me to write, she was surprised – I was shocked when she said how good it was.
I’ve been writing ever since.
Hey, the best things come out of dares. Well, those and a few bad things, but we can't all win. Hee hee. How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?
I have written 16 in total (9 published so far) with 14 more plotted or partially written. My favorite? That’s a hard question to answer. My most favorite would have to be Salvation, it was the most challenging to write for me. Taking a blunt modern woman and tossing her onto the same pages as a 200 year old pirate ghost opened a whole new world of language and viewpoint for me.
But over all I like everything I’ve written (or I wouldn’t have written it).
I love all the stories I've written, even the stuff not pubbed.
While not pregnant, yes. The final Prison Break movie. They killed Michael! Why would they do that??? I was not impressed they kept Link’s bare chest alive and killed off Michael with the pretty eyes. Couldn’t we have kept the chest and the eyes?
While pregnant I think I even cried during The Lion King!
I think I cried duringThe Lion King. It was a heart wrenching movie in spots. Favorite article of clothing?
Definitely my jeans. Give me good old fashioned boot cut jeans (with the waist near my waist and not my hips) any day of the week.
Ah, you're one of the lucky ones who wear them that high. I can't do it. Looks goofy on me. But whatever works, is what works. What does it take to get you in the mood to write? Do you have a schedule or just when inspiration strikes?
The want to write is always there. Unfortunately the opportunity is not. I am a mom to five (four still at home) and work 60-70 hours a week outside of my writing cave – so even if I do schedule it, it may not happen. My family just knows when I plug in the earphones and sit down with my netbook or laptop that I am in “do not disturb” mode.
I wish my family got that memo. Seems like when I open a word doc, that's the moment they all show up. If you could write the story to make you a millionaire...the NYT Bestseller...what would yours be?
I’m inclined to say something with vampires, because that seems to be the trend. However I’ve never been one to “go with the flow” so my bestseller would more than likely be about magic. Not the Merlin kind of magic. I’m thinking young girls during the scare of the burning times – they invoke a spell to pass their magic onto a future blood relative, to protect themselves from persecution and torture. Of course when the relative from this day and time begins to discover she can do magic, she’s a little more than concerned with her own sanity.
Vampires are hot, but I think its a case of, write what you love. If it's vampires, then bloodsuckers it is. If its magic...then poof!
whisper
family
orange
smoky
sweet
(I am shooting from the hip with this, so cross your fingers)
Walking slowly into the room, her heels echoed on the old wooden floors making it seem emptier than it ever had before. It had been years since this room had been filled with her family, with love. The curtains, once red were now closer to a faded orange, the carpet thin and worn. How many more years would pass before the memories no longer haunted her? Her thoughts stopped when she sensed he’d entered the room. He made no sound when he moved up behind her, offered no comforting words, for he knew after this many years how to soothe her in the grief that always returned. His gentle touch slid down her hair, moving it away from her neck, his breath a whisper against her skin as his lips brushed over her throat. He was her world now, his touch more sweet than anything had been in the life before she became what she was now. Turning, she looked into his dark smoky eyes and saw the love there for her, the love she’d have for an eternity and more.
Very nice. Now you're trying to figure out how to get that into a story... I would be.
Thanks for having me here today!
Want the Blurb for Mystic Perceptions? Sure you do! Then, here you go:
Jacinda Brown keeps to her safe existence doing investigative research, avoiding people and places with people. To most, it appears she has a normal life; blending completely undetected in her lonely continuation. She doesn’t investigate people; she can’t get that close. Through her hand she can feel emotions, thoughts. With a touch she can see what has been.
Unfortunately fate tosses her into a situation where her carefully guarded secret and her own conscience are at war when she finds herself working with detectives to find a killer. Jacinda clashes with the very strongly grounded detective, Reid Merritt, destiny has forced her to work with. At some point he begins to matter, making her decision harder. Will he look at her with abhorrence, like she’s some sort of freak when she’s through?
When the fifth murder happens, Jacinda makes the decision to use her gift to find the killer. She doesn’t let herself think of how she’s going to suffer afterward, the consequences that will curse her again, the chance she’ll be giving up everything and starting all over. She just thinks of finding some justice and stopping a killer.
What will be the price, this time, for the ability she doesn’t want?
An excerpt? Not a problem!
Jac looked around the empty parking lot, not even sure why anyone would ever be here. Glancing back at the two men sitting in the car, they’re going to think you’re crazy. She turned and walked over to the spot that had been pointed out to her.
It wouldn’t be the first time someone thought she was crazy, she frowned at the broken asphalt ground, and it probably wouldn’t be the last.
Taking a deep breath, she knelt down and placed both hands on the ground. There were glimmers of vibrations. She focused harder, nothing solid enough to grab a hold of. Moving her hands slowly, she tried a few more places.
~*~
“What is she doing?” Reid growled.
Brent shrugged. “I’m not sure.” He looked over in the direction she was looking. “Does she see something in the field?”
“Maybe.”
Looking away from her Brent studied his partner. “Why exactly are we doing this again?”
Reid rubbed his forehead quickly, and then glanced back to her. “Because we’re out of ideas - and she has looked at the same things we’ve looked at all along and come up with something to follow every time.”
Nodding Brent turned back to look at her. “She’s presently looking at an empty field, surrounded by nothing - pretty sure she’s seeing the same thing we did here.” He watched as she walked slowly back towards them. “Why do we have to wait in the car?”
“I don’t know.” The frustration was clear in his voice.
Both men swung around in their seat to look at her when she got in the back seat. Briefly she smiled. “Next.”
Giving his partner a scoffing look Brent turned back around.
Labels:
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Sunday, September 26, 2010
Check out Mystic Perceptions Here Tomorrow!
Tomorrow Jacqueline Paige stops by with her new book, Mystic Perceptions. If you comment tomorrow, she will be giving away a Mystic Perceptions tote bag stuffed with goodies for one randomly drawn commenter and a $10 gift certificate to the online bookstore of the winner's choice. Sounds exciting? Does to me. Follow her tour by clicking on the banners or here.
Want to know more about the book? Sure you do. Here's the blurb:
Jacinda Brown keeps to her safe existence doing investigative research, avoiding people and places with people. To most, it appears she has a normal life; blending completely undetected in her lonely continuation. She doesn’t investigate people; she can’t get that close. Through her hand she can feel emotions, thoughts. With a touch she can see what has been.
Unfortunately fate tosses her into a situation where her carefully guarded secret and her own conscience are at war when she finds herself working with detectives to find a killer. Jacinda clashes with the very strongly grounded detective, Reid Merritt, destiny has forced her to work with. At some point he begins to matter, making her decision harder. Will he look at her with abhorrence, like she’s some sort of freak when she’s through?
When the fifth murder happens, Jacinda makes the decision to use her gift to find the killer. She doesn’t let herself think of how she’s going to suffer afterward, the consequences that will curse her again, the chance she’ll be giving up everything and starting all over. She just thinks of finding some justice and stopping a killer.
What will be the price, this time, for the ability she doesn’t want?
Want more? Have an excerpt!
Jac looked around the empty parking lot, not even sure why anyone would ever be here. Glancing back at the two men sitting in the car, they’re going to think you’re crazy. She turned and walked over to the spot that had been pointed out to her.
It wouldn’t be the first time someone thought she was crazy, she frowned at the broken asphalt ground, and it probably wouldn’t be the last.
Taking a deep breath, she knelt down and placed both hands on the ground. There were glimmers of vibrations. She focused harder, nothing solid enough to grab a hold of. Moving her hands slowly, she tried a few more places.
~*~
“What is she doing?” Reid growled.
Brent shrugged. “I’m not sure.” He looked over in the direction she was looking. “Does she see something in the field?”
“Maybe.”
Looking away from her Brent studied his partner. “Why exactly are we doing this again?”
Reid rubbed his forehead quickly, and then glanced back to her. “Because we’re out of ideas - and she has looked at the same things we’ve looked at all along and come up with something to follow every time.”
Nodding Brent turned back to look at her. “She’s presently looking at an empty field, surrounded by nothing - pretty sure she’s seeing the same thing we did here.” He watched as she walked slowly back towards them. “Why do we have to wait in the car?”
“I don’t know.” The frustration was clear in his voice.
Both men swung around in their seat to look at her when she got in the back seat. Briefly she smiled. “Next.”
Giving his partner a scoffing look Brent turned back around.
Labels:
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Friday, September 24, 2010
Hot Flash TODAY!!!
Miss Clare Austin is here today to talk about her new book, Hot Flash!
How long have you been writing?
As a child it never occurred to me that others did not have stories swimming around in their heads all the time. It was as natural as breathing for me. And although characters talked to me and through me on a frequent schedule, I rarely wrote any of my stories or ideas down. I wrote my first full length novel in October of 2006 and have been writing constantly since that date.
What comes first: the plot or the characters?
My stories are very strongly character driven. I have plot ideas or situations I put my characters in and then I step back and see what they are going to do. Sometimes my characters fail to cooperate and ramble off in directions I really don’t want to go. In those cases I have to decide if the character is more compelling than the plot. This was the situation recently with a book that is the third part of a trilogy. The series follows the lives of three siblings. Save killing one of them off, I had my character, Tynan Sloane. The woman I first matched him to was not the girl for him…really no way. I took her out and promised her a novel of her own.
How do you come up with the titles to your books?
I love collecting titles. I see them everywhere…street signs, names on boats or planes, something that describes a main character but has a second meaning in the book. This is true of Butterfly. It is the name of a traditional fiddle tune but personifies Flannery Sloane’s free-spiritedness. Sometimes I don’t have a book for a title yet, but it doesn’t hurt to same them up. One title I particularly like is Ground Effect. This is an aviation novel I’m writing about the Women’s Air Service Pilots of WWII. Angel’s Share, the second book in my Fadá½¹ trilogy, is a distillery term used in Ireland and Scotland. I like using foreign words if they are meaningful and can be explained quickly. Fadá½¹ is an Irish word equal to the phrase “once upon a time.”
What inspired you to write your first book?
My very first novel is titled Land Of Ahhs and is not yet published. The story had been beating the inside of my cranium, trying to get out, for years. One day I found a little book called No Plot No Problem. This plan put the process so simply, I had to try. Fifty thousand words in a month…I wrote twice that and then wrote two more full length novels in quick succession just to be sure the first wasn’t a fluke.
How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?
I have completed five novels. Three of them have been published and I can safely say Butterfly is my favorite. It is a romantic comedy with a little pathos to keep it real. The main character, Flannery, moves through her world at the tempo of a slip jig. I had to type very fast to keep pace with her. I love chick flicks…While You Were Sleeping, Only You, Sleepless in Seattle, Romancing the Stone…you know the kind. Butterfly is my contribution to that genre.
Have you ever cried during a movie? What movie or why not?
I’m not a very weepy woman, but I have cried at movies. One that surprised me was an Italian film, Life is Beautiful, directed by Roberto Benigni. The first part of this film is hysterically funny. It also stars Benigni and if you have seen any of his antics, you know why it made me laugh. I won’t tell you the end, but if you watch it, you will understand my tears at the end. It’s a masterpiece.
Favorite article of clothing?
My everyday clothes are likely to be riding breeches, jeans and boots, so when I get a chance to really dress up, I have this black dress with little spaghetti straps and a skirt like triangular scarves sewn together. It twirls beautifully. I wear it with red, patent leather heals and it makes me want to dance.
What does it take to get you in the mood to write? Do you have a schedule or just when inspiration strikes?
I’d like to say I only write when inspired to greatness, but that would be a lie. I consider writing a job…a career. I go to work every day no matter how I feel about it. That is the only way to get the work finished. I write in the morning when ideas are fresh in my mind and again in the afternoon or evening, but that is more likely to be editing or promo writing unless I’m on a creative “roll”.
If you could write the story to make you a millionaire...the NYT Bestseller...what would yours be?
This could very well be my upcoming series of mystery/suspense stories with the characters from Angel’s Share, Campbell and Tripp. The setting might be Boston, as in the Fadá½¹ Trilogy, or I’ll take the opportunity to incorporate other locations…Ireland, Italy, possibly the Middle East. If you have read Angel’s Share, you will certainly remember the cocky, gun toting, in your face, blonde Carolyn Campbell and her stoic, time hardened partner, Jack Tripp. The on and off romance between them will be forever a rocky road, so it won’t be the “classic” romance novel, but I can guarantee the writing will be hot, spicy and fast paced.
Thank you for interviewing me on your blog today.
I hope your readers will go to my website www.clareaustin.com or my blog www.clareaustin.wordpress.com for more information, updates and pictures of the places that have inspired my stories.
All my novels are available in paperback and digital formats and can be purchased from most online booksellers. If anyone would like an autographed copy, please go to my websites “buy” link or contact me at AuthorClare@gmail.com
Blurb? Sure!
Kate Aiello has spent her entire life trying to please others—her three brothers, her Italian mamma and her husband of twenty-five years. It isn’t insult enough she is turning fifty, and left at the side of life’s road by her philandering husband. Now she has to contend with her body’s betrayal…hot flashes!
The plain truth hits her with each thermostatic aberration—she has never been first in anyone’s life, including her own.
Brandon Sullivan has been on a downward spiral since the death of his beloved wife. Now he is a man desperate to save himself from impending financial ruin, loss of his farm and his life’s dream. He needs to get into the winner’s circle by spring or he’ll be just another poor, landless Irishmen downing his pints and bragging about the good ol’ days.
Sparks fly when Italian attitude meets Irish temper. Add two big crazy families, a barn full of horses and one woman’s menopausal hot flashes and the probability for combustion increases exponentially.
What will Kate and Brandon risk for a second chance at love?
Want an excerpt?
So, Katie, tell me…why riding lessons?”
“It’s Kate.” She corrected him.
“What?” He looked genuinely confused.
“Kate…my name…it’s Kate, not Katie.” She wasn’t sure why it bothered her he liked to call her that. Maybe it felt a little too personal. Jeffrey had never called her anything but Catherine.
“Ah and why not? Katie suits you well, a good name for a beautiful woman.”
Nervous laughter welled up in her. “You have that ‘charming Irishman’ thing down to a fine science don’t you? Go ahead, call me anything you want.” Obviously, the man had his own opinions. It was most likely fruitless to try and correct him. She should have resented it, but his arrogance fit him like those breeches he wore. From another man, his attitude would have felt patronizing, but coming from him it was...well…titillating.
He said nothing, just looked directly into her eyes and smiled a slow, lazy grin that made Kate shiver deep in her bones.
Want to follow the rest of Clare's Tour? Click here for the schedule. And don't forget to comment. The more you comment, the better your chances are to win prizes! What, you might ask? She will also be giving away the winner's choice of a Hot Flashes T-shirt or coffee mug to the blog host with the most comments! Let's go folks! Comment! :)
Labels:
Blog Tour,
Blogging,
Goddess Fish,
Guest Blog
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Clare Austin stops by tomorrow!
Miss Clare Austin stops by the blog tomorrow to talk about her book, Hot Flash. I hope you enjoy it. I know I will. Come back tomorrow, comment and you could win prizes from Clare! Want to follow her tour? Click here!
Want the Blurb?
Kate Aiello has spent her entire life trying to please others—her three brothers, her Italian mamma and her husband of twenty-five years. It isn’t insult enough she is turning fifty, and left at the side of life’s road by her philandering husband. Now she has to contend with her body’s betrayal…hot flashes!
The plain truth hits her with each thermostatic aberration—she has never been first in anyone’s life, including her own.
Brandon Sullivan has been on a downward spiral since the death of his beloved wife. Now he is a man desperate to save himself from impending financial ruin, loss of his farm and his life’s dream. He needs to get into the winner’s circle by spring or he’ll be just another poor, landless Irishmen downing his pints and bragging about the good ol’ days.
Sparks fly when Italian attitude meets Irish temper. Add two big crazy families, a barn full of horses and one woman’s menopausal hot flashes and the probability for combustion increases exponentially.
What will Kate and Brandon risk for a second chance at love?
Want an excerpt? Here you go!
From her high refuge she heard the chains that raised the gates, opening the fortress of her protection, the stronghold that guarded her heart.
Spurs, scraping metal on stone as he took the stairs to reach her, rang out with his fierce intention. She knew he would not, could not, waste a minute more to hold her, bury his need in her until they both cried out in their joining. The scents of leather, sweat, and musky male melted her bones and she leaned into him to keep from falling. Sapphire flames searched her face. Long fingers traced the line of her jaw and traveled to her neck, where her pulse beat in counterpoint to her panting breaths. “It has been too long, MuirnÃn.” His whisper settled like a butterfly’s wing on her ear. “I want you now, Katie...”
“Katie...wake up, sleepin’ beauty. It’s supper time.”
Brandon sat on the bed and brushed her hair out of her face. “I’m sorry. I meant to wake you sooner.”
“Oh…oh, dear...I was having this dream.” My God, what a dream. “I thought I was in that castle.” She pointed out the window at the medieval fortress that was now a silhouette in the evening sky. “And you were there.” How much am I going to tell him? “Well, it was...amazing.”
“It’s called Carraigdún.” His fingers combed through her mass of curls. “Do you know, you have such beautiful hair? It reminds me of a lioness—like you—wild and unruly.”
She smacked his hand away, dropping the quilt and exposing the rise of her breasts. “Brandon, I’m not dressed.”
He traced the line of her collarbone with one finger. “You might have forgotten, but I’ve seen you in less than this.”
Labels:
Blog Tour,
Goddess Fish,
Guest Blog
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
What the? Wednesday
I really didn't have a complaint today. Shocking I know. Meh.
But the tot had the book, Grandma's Feather Bed, which made me think of the John Denver song. (Yes, it's his book...a translation or interpretation or something.) So since I ws raised on The Muppet Show I had to find the clip on YouTube. I did. Youngling wasn't impressed. Meh. But it made me think. Since the Muppets are on there...what else could I find. (No not porn....what kinda girl do you think I am? --You might be right, but this isn't the time or place--) And I thought, hey, back in the day, there was a clip on The Muppet Show with Vincent Price where he sings You've Got a Friend. I loved it because it was so weird. So I looked for it.
Poof!
Now you can see it, too.
But the tot had the book, Grandma's Feather Bed, which made me think of the John Denver song. (Yes, it's his book...a translation or interpretation or something.) So since I ws raised on The Muppet Show I had to find the clip on YouTube. I did. Youngling wasn't impressed. Meh. But it made me think. Since the Muppets are on there...what else could I find. (No not porn....what kinda girl do you think I am? --You might be right, but this isn't the time or place--) And I thought, hey, back in the day, there was a clip on The Muppet Show with Vincent Price where he sings You've Got a Friend. I loved it because it was so weird. So I looked for it.
Poof!
Now you can see it, too.
Labels:
What The? Wednesdays
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Michelle Picard Stops by TODAY!!!
Instead of my normal Tasty Tuesday, I'm welcoming author Michelle Picard here for a chat! Join us and don't forget to comment. We'd love to hear from you and plus you can win prizes! Follow the tour here!
Thank you very much Wendi for hosting me today as part of my multi-stop blog tour announcing my newest release, Surviving Eden. My name is Michelle Picard and Surviving Eden is the second in my Eden’s Court series that began with Ruling Eden last fall. Ruling Eden recently took a second place final in the PRISM awards this summer, for which I’m thrilled. Both books are available in e and print formats with links to purchase at my publisher’s website, www.crescentmoonpress.com. Paperback copies are available both at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Kindle downloads are currently available and Nook downloads will be available shortly. Perhaps even as we speak.
The premise of the series? What if a modern woman suddenly learns she is heir to the throne of a magical realm hidden in our world and is the most powerful magical being on the planet?
So let me throw you the blurb for Surviving Eden and then move on to discuss the important topic of location, location, and location. Or, in other words, why in the world I chose to set my books in Eden (with a little Boston thrown in for good measure). Where is Eden anyway? Don’t worry; it’s not in Bean Town.
The blurb:
Rachel Rieh wields enough magic to make a goddess jealous, or so she learned three weeks ago when she thought she was an ordinary, reclusive, and short-tempered gal from Boston. In this second story of Eden’s Court, Rachel, now the new ruler of the Kesayim, (angels, demons, dragons, faeries, vampires, shapeshifters and witches – the goddess-created protectors of mankind) finds herself faced with the task of stopping vampire hunters from annihilating the vampire race. Her lover, Gabriel, half-angel, half-demon, stands by her side to help if she can escape her obsession with protecting him at all cost.
Earth is already on the verge of destruction within six months because magic is out of balance. The new threat to the vampires destabilizes the situation more. In her race to save the vampires, Rachel meets Lillith, goddess- creator of all Kesayim and humans, and the one with the all the answers to Rachel’s problems. But is the cold-hearted goddess who is intent on changing Rachel into her image the greater threat to Rachel and everyone she loves?
Now, on to the discussion of location. Like buying a house, a story needs the perfect location to unfold its full potential. I’ve been a sucker for traditional fantasy since I was a girl, but am a more recent convert to the urban fantasy genre. So I wanted to find a way to reflect a bit of both in my location. In addition, I needed to find a common ground, literally, to host seven different paranormal humanoid species and represent their joint origins.
Why not play with the mythology of Eden as the center of creation and float this realm on modern day Earth, tethering it to the mundane world as if it was a balloon with Eden floating in the ether? Add magical portals that whisk you between ordinary Earth and this otherworldly realm and I was good to go. Eden is a traditional garden, but it is sentient and expands and contracts to any size imaginable. Yet inside it stands a modern embassy complex with residents hip to the modern world coming together to preserve diplomatic relations between the species. There’s even an underground bar with bands playing the latest modern fusion rock.
This hybrid location fit the bill for a modern heroine who swears freely, has anger issues, but loves deeply and loyally. She has to learn to use her tremendous magical power in this new exotic locale, but her modern day hang-ups pop as true in the setting because I’ve kept contemporary elements.
Finally, the rich background of Eden allowed wonderful opportunities for playing with the common source of magic I developed. The Earth and its soil is literally the source of that magic and the imagery of digging deep into the verdant gardens to loose that magic was a wonderful idea with which to play. Any good fantasy world has to have a consistent magical system and the characters must play by the rules of that system for a reader to have the best quality visit to that story world. Not only did my magical system need to be consistent within itself, but it also had to explain the diverse magic of the seven paranormal races. It was a challenge, but handcrafting the location of my stories helped tremendously in making this magic hang together.
I hope you’ll stop by and check out Eden, my heroine Rachel and my hero Gabriel. I encourage readers to send me feedback about my stories. I’d love to hear what everyone thinks about this location. Did it work for you? Don’t be afraid to speak up. Send comments to michelle@michellepicard.com or visit my blog at www.michellepicardsblog.wordpress.com and leave a comment on one of my posts.
Thanks again Wendi for hosting me and I wish everyone a sweet and creative adventure today. Please visit me at www.michellepicard.com to learn more about my books.
Blurb:
Rachel Rieh wields enough magic to make a goddess jealous, or so she learned three
weeks ago when she thought she was an ordinary, reclusive, and short-tempered gal from Boston. In this second story of Eden’s Court, Rachel, now the new ruler of the Kesayim,(angels, demons, dragons, faeries, vampires, shapeshifters and witches¾the goddess-created protectors of mortalkind) finds herself faced with the task of stopping vampire hunters from annihilating the vampire race. Her lover, Gabriel, half-angel, half-demon,stands by her side to help if she can escape her obsession with protecting him at all cost.
Earth is already on the verge of destruction within six months because magic is out of balance. The new threat to the vampires destabilizes the situation more. In her race to save the vampires, Rachel meets Lilith, goddess, creator of all Kesayim and humans, and the one with all the answers to Rachel’s problems. But is the cold-hearted goddess intent on changing Rachel into her image the greater threat to Rachel and everyone she loves?
Excerpt:
Thank you very much Wendi for hosting me today as part of my multi-stop blog tour announcing my newest release, Surviving Eden. My name is Michelle Picard and Surviving Eden is the second in my Eden’s Court series that began with Ruling Eden last fall. Ruling Eden recently took a second place final in the PRISM awards this summer, for which I’m thrilled. Both books are available in e and print formats with links to purchase at my publisher’s website, www.crescentmoonpress.com. Paperback copies are available both at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Kindle downloads are currently available and Nook downloads will be available shortly. Perhaps even as we speak.
The premise of the series? What if a modern woman suddenly learns she is heir to the throne of a magical realm hidden in our world and is the most powerful magical being on the planet?
So let me throw you the blurb for Surviving Eden and then move on to discuss the important topic of location, location, and location. Or, in other words, why in the world I chose to set my books in Eden (with a little Boston thrown in for good measure). Where is Eden anyway? Don’t worry; it’s not in Bean Town.
The blurb:
Rachel Rieh wields enough magic to make a goddess jealous, or so she learned three weeks ago when she thought she was an ordinary, reclusive, and short-tempered gal from Boston. In this second story of Eden’s Court, Rachel, now the new ruler of the Kesayim, (angels, demons, dragons, faeries, vampires, shapeshifters and witches – the goddess-created protectors of mankind) finds herself faced with the task of stopping vampire hunters from annihilating the vampire race. Her lover, Gabriel, half-angel, half-demon, stands by her side to help if she can escape her obsession with protecting him at all cost.
Earth is already on the verge of destruction within six months because magic is out of balance. The new threat to the vampires destabilizes the situation more. In her race to save the vampires, Rachel meets Lillith, goddess- creator of all Kesayim and humans, and the one with the all the answers to Rachel’s problems. But is the cold-hearted goddess who is intent on changing Rachel into her image the greater threat to Rachel and everyone she loves?
Now, on to the discussion of location. Like buying a house, a story needs the perfect location to unfold its full potential. I’ve been a sucker for traditional fantasy since I was a girl, but am a more recent convert to the urban fantasy genre. So I wanted to find a way to reflect a bit of both in my location. In addition, I needed to find a common ground, literally, to host seven different paranormal humanoid species and represent their joint origins.
Why not play with the mythology of Eden as the center of creation and float this realm on modern day Earth, tethering it to the mundane world as if it was a balloon with Eden floating in the ether? Add magical portals that whisk you between ordinary Earth and this otherworldly realm and I was good to go. Eden is a traditional garden, but it is sentient and expands and contracts to any size imaginable. Yet inside it stands a modern embassy complex with residents hip to the modern world coming together to preserve diplomatic relations between the species. There’s even an underground bar with bands playing the latest modern fusion rock.
This hybrid location fit the bill for a modern heroine who swears freely, has anger issues, but loves deeply and loyally. She has to learn to use her tremendous magical power in this new exotic locale, but her modern day hang-ups pop as true in the setting because I’ve kept contemporary elements.
Finally, the rich background of Eden allowed wonderful opportunities for playing with the common source of magic I developed. The Earth and its soil is literally the source of that magic and the imagery of digging deep into the verdant gardens to loose that magic was a wonderful idea with which to play. Any good fantasy world has to have a consistent magical system and the characters must play by the rules of that system for a reader to have the best quality visit to that story world. Not only did my magical system need to be consistent within itself, but it also had to explain the diverse magic of the seven paranormal races. It was a challenge, but handcrafting the location of my stories helped tremendously in making this magic hang together.
I hope you’ll stop by and check out Eden, my heroine Rachel and my hero Gabriel. I encourage readers to send me feedback about my stories. I’d love to hear what everyone thinks about this location. Did it work for you? Don’t be afraid to speak up. Send comments to michelle@michellepicard.com or visit my blog at www.michellepicardsblog.wordpress.com and leave a comment on one of my posts.
Thanks again Wendi for hosting me and I wish everyone a sweet and creative adventure today. Please visit me at www.michellepicard.com to learn more about my books.
Blurb:
Rachel Rieh wields enough magic to make a goddess jealous, or so she learned three
weeks ago when she thought she was an ordinary, reclusive, and short-tempered gal from Boston. In this second story of Eden’s Court, Rachel, now the new ruler of the Kesayim,(angels, demons, dragons, faeries, vampires, shapeshifters and witches¾the goddess-created protectors of mortalkind) finds herself faced with the task of stopping vampire hunters from annihilating the vampire race. Her lover, Gabriel, half-angel, half-demon,stands by her side to help if she can escape her obsession with protecting him at all cost.
Earth is already on the verge of destruction within six months because magic is out of balance. The new threat to the vampires destabilizes the situation more. In her race to save the vampires, Rachel meets Lilith, goddess, creator of all Kesayim and humans, and the one with all the answers to Rachel’s problems. But is the cold-hearted goddess intent on changing Rachel into her image the greater threat to Rachel and everyone she loves?
Excerpt:
Moonlight filtered through the windows of my bedroom, softly draping Gabriel’s naked body as he lay next to me on his stomach. His thoughts seemed to be somewhere else entirely. I loved how the pale light played along his flawless limbs, his smoothly muscled body. The silken sheets teased my already sensitive skin. I let my thoughts drift away from my gnawing guilt as I avoided discussion about my date with Colin. As Gabriel relaxed by my side, his aura glowed bright with his pleasure.
I’d given up on trying to shut-off my perception of auras. The dizzying visuals superimposed over everyone’s bodies were now becoming familiar, natural. Gabriel’s included the outline of a pair of wings jutting from his back. Their ghostly image had been present even before he manifested those wings for the first time during his battle with Michael in council.
Tonight was no exception. With downy feathers tucked magically away inside his body, a trick he alone of his angel counterparts could accomplish, his aura reflected their shining outline. The shadow wings were almost as lovely as the real thing.
I couldn’t resist running my fingers down the raised skin on both sides of his back while I lay beside him, my head supported by elbow and hand. I’d convinced myself Gabriel felt shy about the wings. I’d only seen them twice, including the time they manifested. But his hesitation to show them to me hurt. Perhaps he didn’t fully trust me. I dismissed that thought as ludicrous, but it still nagged at me.
My light tracing of the soft, barely perceptible tissue ridges sent pleasant tingles into my hand. His body tensed under the movement of my fingers and I felt his discomfort in the contact. Disappointed with his response, I stilled my fingertips.
“I won’t touch them if you don’t want me to,” I whispered into the hushed night of the room, holding my breath for his reply.
After a moment he relaxed, as if he’d fought through his initial hesitation to some decision. “Please continue,” he said, voice sleepy. “It feels good.”
I smoothed the ridges once again, delighting in the tiny shocks sparking into me. Gabriel’s voice bounced out into the moon-touched room, filling the space with its rich tones, surprising me with its serious intent. “When I was a child I fell asleep most every night dreaming of wings. I hated being born without them.” He paused. “The dream died long ago and I never thought to gain them. Yet… Here I am.”
My breath hitched hearing the pain of the memory in his cautious words. He sounded surprised to be speaking them. Guilt flooded through me for forcing him to expose himself to this hurtful past. Every day he walked into that negotiation room to manage the talks between the angels and demons. It was one thing for me to insist on facing my own memories head-on; another to see someone I loved forced into the same.
Gabriel caught my eyes before I could glance away. “I recognize that look on your face,” he chided. “You are blaming yourself, again.”
I kept my gaze on the window, the shadows of the garden just outside, wishing I could hide the waiver in my voice. “Don’t badmouth a little good old-fashioned guilt.” I tried to joke away his point-on comment. I swallowed past the lump in my throat and the will to give my smart-mouth rein died a sudden death. “My decision puts you in that room with them everyday.” I removed my hands from him, unable to continue my caress.
He shifted on his side, reaching his hand to cradle my face. “Being in that room may be frustrating, but it is valuable to me as well. I feel less need to run from them.”
My indignation surged on his behalf. I wanted to insist that he never ran, but hadn’t I accused him of the same weeks ago? My words had been to the effect that he’d bought into their crap about being an abomination. I’d wanted this experience for him--a chance to put to rest the ghosts that haunted him. I just hadn’t counted on how witnessing his pain during the process would shred my heart.
He smiled as if he’d recognized the play of thoughts and emotions running across my face and valued them. “I did run, in my own way. But being forced to watch the angels and demons confront their issues, I feel less like I am some shameful secret that must be denied.”
“I’m sorry this hurts you,” I blurted, my words choking me. I hated how out of control my emotions became with him. I valued my control.
His voice roughened with irritation. “You never forced me into the room. It was my choice, if you remember.”
“Yeah, but--”
“Do not make less of what I do by claiming responsibility for that choice. I survived hundreds of years making my own decisions before you were even born.”
Gabriel’s tone made my hackles rise for just a moment before I remembered his pain. He had a point, but I wasn’t about to give up on blaming myself in this matter. Call me masochistically stubborn.
His momentary anger dissolved, shifting into an all too different mood. His fingers moved in a caress of my cheek. He was a master at distracting me when he wanted and I’d sullenly noted before how most of the time this was a good thing. “Besides,” his voice lazed, “I need your mind focused elsewhere. It has always been my fantasy to make love to a woman with wings wrapped around us, brushing along our bodies.”
My mouth quirked up as my nipples tightened. “Any woman in particular, or will you just put out a personal ad? Wanted: female with wing fetish. Only those already butt naked need apply.” His chuckle tightened all things lower on me and I shifted on the bed, anticipation licking my skin.
Labels:
Blog Tour,
Blogging,
Goddess Fish,
Guest Blog
Monday, September 20, 2010
Virtual Tour for Surviving Eden Stops Here Tomorrow
Normally today would be a Monday Moans day. Trust me, the characters are pouting. But I wanted to share a great new book with you. Michelle Picard stops by tomorrow with her book, Surviving Eden. What's the book about? Glad you asked.
Here's the blurb:
Rachel Rieh wields enough magic to make a goddess jealous, or so she learned three weeks ago when she thought she was an ordinary, reclusive, and short-tempered gal from Boston. In this second story of Eden's Court, Rachel, now the new ruler of the Kesayim, (angels, demons, dragons, faeries, vampires, shapeshifters and witches the goddess-created protectors of mortalkind) finds herself faced with the task of stopping vampire hunters from annihilating the vampire race. Her lover, Gabriel, half-angel, half-demon, stands by her side to help if she can escape her obsession with protecting him at all cost.
Earth is already on the verge of destruction within six months because magic is out of balance. The new threat to the vampires destabilizes the situation more. In her race to save the vampires, Rachel meets Lillith, goddess, creator of all Kesayim and humans, and the one with all the answers to Rachel's problems. But is the cold-hearted goddess intent on changing Rachel into her image the greater threat to Rachel and everyone she loves?
Excerpt? Sure!
Moonlight filtered through the windows of my bedroom, softly draping Gabriel’s naked body as he lay next to me on his stomach. His thoughts seemed to be somewhere else entirely. I loved how the pale light played along his flawless limbs, his smoothly muscled body. The silken sheets teased my already sensitive skin. I let my thoughts drift away from my gnawing guilt as I avoided discussion about my date with Colin. As Gabriel relaxed by my side, his aura glowed bright with his pleasure.
I’d given up on trying to shut-off my perception of auras. The dizzying visuals superimposed over everyone’s bodies were now becoming familiar, natural. Gabriel’s included the outline of a pair of wings jutting from his back. Their ghostly image had been present even before he manifested those wings for the first time during his battle with Michael in council.
Tonight was no exception. With downy feathers tucked magically away inside his body, a trick he alone of his angel counterparts could accomplish, his aura reflected their shining outline. The shadow wings were almost as lovely as the real thing.
I couldn’t resist running my fingers down the raised skin on both sides of his back while I lay beside him, my head supported by elbow and hand. I’d convinced myself Gabriel felt shy about the wings. I’d only seen them twice, including the time they manifested. But his hesitation to show them to me hurt. Perhaps he didn’t fully trust me. I dismissed that thought as ludicrous, but it still nagged at me.
My light tracing of the soft, barely perceptible tissue ridges sent pleasant tingles into my hand. His body tensed under the movement of my fingers and I felt his discomfort in the contact. Disappointed with his response, I stilled my fingertips.
“I won’t touch them if you don’t want me to,” I whispered into the hushed night of the room, holding my breath for his reply.
After a moment he relaxed, as if he’d fought through his initial hesitation to some decision. “Please continue,” he said, voice sleepy. “It feels good.”
I smoothed the ridges once again, delighting in the tiny shocks sparking into me. Gabriel’s voice bounced out into the moon-touched room, filling the space with its rich tones, surprising me with its serious intent. “When I was a child I fell asleep most every night dreaming of wings. I hated being born without them.” He paused. “The dream died long ago and I never thought to gain them. Yet… Here I am.”
My breath hitched hearing the pain of the memory in his cautious words. He sounded surprised to be speaking them. Guilt flooded through me for forcing him to expose himself to this hurtful past. Every day he walked into that negotiation room to manage the talks between the angels and demons. It was one thing for me to insist on facing my own memories head-on; another to see someone I loved forced into the same.
Gabriel caught my eyes before I could glance away. “I recognize that look on your face,” he chided. “You are blaming yourself, again.”
I kept my gaze on the window, the shadows of the garden just outside, wishing I could hide the waiver in my voice. “Don’t badmouth a little good old-fashioned guilt.” I tried to joke away his point-on comment. I swallowed past the lump in my throat and the will to give my smart-mouth rein died a sudden death. “My decision puts you in that room with them everyday.” I removed my hands from him, unable to continue my caress.
He shifted on his side, reaching his hand to cradle my face. “Being in that room may be frustrating, but it is valuable to me as well. I feel less need to run from them.”
My indignation surged on his behalf. I wanted to insist that he never ran, but hadn’t I accused him of the same weeks ago? My words had been to the effect that he’d bought into their crap about being an abomination. I’d wanted this experience for him--a chance to put to rest the ghosts that haunted him. I just hadn’t counted on how witnessing his pain during the process would shred my heart.
He smiled as if he’d recognized the play of thoughts and emotions running across my face and valued them. “I did run, in my own way. But being forced to watch the angels and demons confront their issues, I feel less like I am some shameful secret that must be denied.”
“I’m sorry this hurts you,” I blurted, my words choking me. I hated how out of control my emotions became with him. I valued my control.
His voice roughened with irritation. “You never forced me into the room. It was my choice, if you remember.”
“Yeah, but--”
“Do not make less of what I do by claiming responsibility for that choice. I survived hundreds of years making my own decisions before you were even born.”
Gabriel’s tone made my hackles rise for just a moment before I remembered his pain. He had a point, but I wasn’t about to give up on blaming myself in this matter. Call me masochistically stubborn.
His momentary anger dissolved, shifting into an all too different mood. His fingers moved in a caress of my cheek. He was a master at distracting me when he wanted and I’d sullenly noted before how most of the time this was a good thing. “Besides,” his voice lazed, “I need your mind focused elsewhere. It has always been my fantasy to make love to a woman with wings wrapped around us, brushing along our bodies.”
My mouth quirked up as my nipples tightened. “Any woman in particular, or will you just put out a personal ad? Wanted: female with wing fetish. Only those already butt naked need apply.” His chuckle tightened all things lower on me and I shifted on the bed, anticipation licking my skin.
Labels:
Blog Tour,
Goddess Fish,
Guest Blog,
Surviving Eden,
Virtual Tour
Friday, September 17, 2010
Flirty Friday
Megan stopped over today and wanted to know what the heck she should blog about. She's featured over at the Menagerie Authors blog, like she is every Friday. Now this is my Flirty Friday day... the day I generally talk about what I'm writing and what's on the docket. I suggest she does that.
She just winks.
Punk.
Yes, she's a dear friend, but she's a punk. Twirled a dark curl around her finger, smiled, and winked again.
Dammit.
See if I help her again.
So what am I working on...
Ghost Hunter (currently titled Careless Whisper) has gone to the critique partner. I dunno if she'll be happy with it, or if she'll come back and tell me it sucks. Usually the ones I love are the stories that the CP's tend to skewer. I know, I have more emotional investment in them. It's true.
I need to get back to me vampire Julian. (Why do I feel the need to say, the vampire Armand or Lestat...peculiar) No, my vampire in this story is Julian and his "brothers" Andreas and Vincent. I wrote a story for Whipped Cream which was posted a few weeks ago, but according to Julian, he wasn't done telling me his story. So on it went. I'll get to him very soon.
So much to write and so little time to concentrate when the characters are cooperating.
Back to the old aggravating vampires in the hopes they'll want to work.
Toodles.
She just winks.
Punk.
Yes, she's a dear friend, but she's a punk. Twirled a dark curl around her finger, smiled, and winked again.
Dammit.
See if I help her again.
So what am I working on...
Ghost Hunter (currently titled Careless Whisper) has gone to the critique partner. I dunno if she'll be happy with it, or if she'll come back and tell me it sucks. Usually the ones I love are the stories that the CP's tend to skewer. I know, I have more emotional investment in them. It's true.
I need to get back to me vampire Julian. (Why do I feel the need to say, the vampire Armand or Lestat...peculiar) No, my vampire in this story is Julian and his "brothers" Andreas and Vincent. I wrote a story for Whipped Cream which was posted a few weeks ago, but according to Julian, he wasn't done telling me his story. So on it went. I'll get to him very soon.
So much to write and so little time to concentrate when the characters are cooperating.
Back to the old aggravating vampires in the hopes they'll want to work.
Toodles.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Thank You Thursday
Labels:
Eye Candy,
Hunks,
inspiration,
Thank You Thursday
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
What the? Wednesday
For the last couple days I've been dealing with a huge issue. A stupid summer/fall cold. At least I think it's that. I have allergies...ragweed in particular. But this is lasting a tad too long for allergies and no matter what I seem to take to combat it, nothing works.
When I say this sucks, I mean it sucks.
My head hurts and my new best friend has become Puffs. I can't seem to get much of anything done, no matter how hard I try. And it figures that I have some big things to get done this week. I told a co-worker that I could easily nab the role of Rudolph in the annual company Christmas play. My nose is literally on fire.
What the heck? I wash my hands, sneeze into my sleeve, and use the wipes to keep the surfaces sanitary.
Ack, brb.
Sorry. Had to run and get yet another tissue. And yeah, I cleaned off the keyboard again. I think I'm going to put my head down for a while and try to take a rest to get rid of whatever this is that's taking my desire to get things done and tossing it in the toilet.
When I say this sucks, I mean it sucks.
My head hurts and my new best friend has become Puffs. I can't seem to get much of anything done, no matter how hard I try. And it figures that I have some big things to get done this week. I told a co-worker that I could easily nab the role of Rudolph in the annual company Christmas play. My nose is literally on fire.
What the heck? I wash my hands, sneeze into my sleeve, and use the wipes to keep the surfaces sanitary.
Ack, brb.
Sorry. Had to run and get yet another tissue. And yeah, I cleaned off the keyboard again. I think I'm going to put my head down for a while and try to take a rest to get rid of whatever this is that's taking my desire to get things done and tossing it in the toilet.
Labels:
Random Musings,
What The? Wednesdays
Monday, September 13, 2010
Winners!
In replacement of Monday Moans today (and yes, the characters aren't thrilled, but they'll deal) I'm announcing the winners for all three of my contests. Each recieve a copy of my latest book, My Immortal. All will be notified today via email that they've won!
For my blog tour, sponsored by Goddess Fish Promotions, the winner is:
The blog tour Visitor winner is:
And the Blog Fest visitor winner is:
For my blog tour, sponsored by Goddess Fish Promotions, the winner is:
The blog tour Visitor winner is:
And the Blog Fest visitor winner is:
Labels:
Blog Tour,
BlogFest,
Blogging,
Contests,
Goddess Fish,
Virtual Tour,
Winners
Sunday, September 12, 2010
BlogFest!
Don't forget to stop and trip the blogs!
Next on the tour? Jan von Harz's Eating YA Books Blog!
Be sure to become a follower, comment, and leave your email addy here in order to win a copy of My Immortal or another book from my back list!
Winner announced tomorrow!
Next on the tour? Jan von Harz's Eating YA Books Blog!
Be sure to become a follower, comment, and leave your email addy here in order to win a copy of My Immortal or another book from my back list!
Winner announced tomorrow!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Never Forget
I posted this over at Total-E-Bound's blog, since today's my day, but I thought I'd put it here, too.
~~~
I'm going to start out with this since this is a symbolic day. This date marks a time when a lot of us had to grow up. A time when a lot of us realized that all the things we hold dear can be gone in a matter of moments. September 11th reminds me of sitting in the seventh grade art class I taught, trying to explain to a room full of scared 12-13 yr olds that bad things happen to good people and we'd be safe. I hoped anyway. We sat and cried and tried to make sense of the things we saw on television. I'll never forget. I can't say I've lost any good friends because of date, but at least one of my stories has been inspired by a friend who has served multiple times in Iraq.
"Dance like no one's watching and love like there's no tomorrow."
~~
On to the rest of my post...
I'm not necessarily new to the Total-E-Bound family. I have three books out now with them. But to the blog? I'm a newbie. *Grin*
I'm a mom, wife, cleaning lady (ever stepped on those stupid Star Wars Figures at 3 AM? Don't. It's not fun.), erotica author, chauffeur, sounding board, CSI:Miami and chocolate addict, and race fan.
How'd I get started writing dirty little stories? Glad you asked.
Back in the day, saying the word S-E-X was a dirty word. Yeah, like back in the '50's. Sadly, that idea stuck around the household I grew up in. Yes, 1997 and S-E-X was still a dirty word. At the same time, I watched General Hospital. Really exciting stuff. I thought to myself, gee, they talk about sex all the time, have lots of sex, and no one seems offended. Maybe that dirty nasty thing I'd been taught to stay away from wasnt' so bad after all.
You might be thinking I went off the rails at this point. Sadly, no. I'm too anal retentive to really act crazy. I waited like a good little late bloomer.
Once I came to the conclusion that my lips wouldn't fall off because I said cock or because I thought the horizontal mambo was fun... I ran with it. I have the best research partner who loves to help me work out the mechanics of a love scene.
Now that I'm off the leash, I'm having more fun and more comfortable in my own skin. Life is good.
~~~
I'm going to start out with this since this is a symbolic day. This date marks a time when a lot of us had to grow up. A time when a lot of us realized that all the things we hold dear can be gone in a matter of moments. September 11th reminds me of sitting in the seventh grade art class I taught, trying to explain to a room full of scared 12-13 yr olds that bad things happen to good people and we'd be safe. I hoped anyway. We sat and cried and tried to make sense of the things we saw on television. I'll never forget. I can't say I've lost any good friends because of date, but at least one of my stories has been inspired by a friend who has served multiple times in Iraq.
"Dance like no one's watching and love like there's no tomorrow."
~~
On to the rest of my post...
I'm not necessarily new to the Total-E-Bound family. I have three books out now with them. But to the blog? I'm a newbie. *Grin*
I'm a mom, wife, cleaning lady (ever stepped on those stupid Star Wars Figures at 3 AM? Don't. It's not fun.), erotica author, chauffeur, sounding board, CSI:Miami and chocolate addict, and race fan.
How'd I get started writing dirty little stories? Glad you asked.
Back in the day, saying the word S-E-X was a dirty word. Yeah, like back in the '50's. Sadly, that idea stuck around the household I grew up in. Yes, 1997 and S-E-X was still a dirty word. At the same time, I watched General Hospital. Really exciting stuff. I thought to myself, gee, they talk about sex all the time, have lots of sex, and no one seems offended. Maybe that dirty nasty thing I'd been taught to stay away from wasnt' so bad after all.
You might be thinking I went off the rails at this point. Sadly, no. I'm too anal retentive to really act crazy. I waited like a good little late bloomer.
Once I came to the conclusion that my lips wouldn't fall off because I said cock or because I thought the horizontal mambo was fun... I ran with it. I have the best research partner who loves to help me work out the mechanics of a love scene.
Now that I'm off the leash, I'm having more fun and more comfortable in my own skin. Life is good.
Labels:
Blogging,
Guest Blog,
Ideas,
Sept 11th,
Total E Bound,
You'll Think of Me
Friday, September 10, 2010
Friday Flirts and the Final Stop
First of all, I'm heading over to Isabel Roman's for the Final stop on my blog tour. **Le sigh** I love the tour. Love promoting my work. Kinda sad to see it end. But then again, it's good because I need a short respite to work on other things.
So stop by http://authorisabelroman.blogspot.com/ for a chance to win a copy of My Immortal.
And since you're already out and about, go over to Menagerie Authors. My dear friend Megan Slayer is doing her weekly post and would love you to say hi!
And since I'm on a roll.... I've started working hardcore on the threesome story. Parker, Jacoby, and Juniper saw a picture on the 'net courtesy of Kealie and screamed. Hey, I can't hold them back all the time. So, once I'm done here posting and twittering and FBing and commenting... I'm going back to playing with the threesome. It's niiiiiiicccceeeee.
So stop by http://authorisabelroman.blogspot.com/ for a chance to win a copy of My Immortal.
And since you're already out and about, go over to Menagerie Authors. My dear friend Megan Slayer is doing her weekly post and would love you to say hi!
And since I'm on a roll.... I've started working hardcore on the threesome story. Parker, Jacoby, and Juniper saw a picture on the 'net courtesy of Kealie and screamed. Hey, I can't hold them back all the time. So, once I'm done here posting and twittering and FBing and commenting... I'm going back to playing with the threesome. It's niiiiiiicccceeeee.
Labels:
Blog Tour,
Blogging,
Flirty Friday,
Goddess Fish,
Guest Blog,
Ideas,
My Immortal,
Short Stories,
Total E Bound
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Thank You Thursday--I'm heading to Judy's Today!
Because I've loved going on this tour, meeting new people, and visiting new blogs, I wanted to say thanks to those who stopped by, hosted me, or were nosy enough to take a peek. I hope you nab a copy of My Immortal and like it.
Today I also wanted to thank a dear friend of mine for having me on her blog today. Miss Judy. She's the silent one a LASR and you can't help but love her. :) I do. So follow me for My Immortal Thursday 13 at her blog!
Today I also wanted to thank a dear friend of mine for having me on her blog today. Miss Judy. She's the silent one a LASR and you can't help but love her. :) I do. So follow me for My Immortal Thursday 13 at her blog!
Labels:
Blog Tour,
Blogging,
Goddess Fish,
Guest Blog,
My Immortal,
Thank You Thursday
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
What the? Wednesdays
First off, I have nothing to complain about today. Nope. Not a thing. Which I guess could be a what the? in that, wow, nothing to complain about. Nah. I'll leave it as a positive. :)
For another postive, and I've been looking forward to this, I'm at D. Renee Bagby's site today, previewing chapter one of My Immortal, so those of you wanting a bit more of the book, it's there. I met Ms. Bagby down at the infamous Lori Foster event in Cincy and she's a great person and fantastic writer. I'm honored and humbled to be on her site. :) So visit, read, and be merry!
For another postive, and I've been looking forward to this, I'm at D. Renee Bagby's site today, previewing chapter one of My Immortal, so those of you wanting a bit more of the book, it's there. I met Ms. Bagby down at the infamous Lori Foster event in Cincy and she's a great person and fantastic writer. I'm honored and humbled to be on her site. :) So visit, read, and be merry!
Monday, September 6, 2010
Monday Moans and Another Tour Stop!
I should've posted this earlier, but last night (I normally write my posts the night before or tell the characters to step up to the plate the night before), I ended up with a whopper of a headache. Not a migraine, but it wasn't fun. Worst part? Woke up this am? Still there. Ugh. My characters knew better and hid out for the day.
But I'm telling you about the party and where I'm at today! I'm blogging with my pal Victoria Blisse at her blog. http://www.victoriablisse.co.uk/blog
I'm having a blast hanging out with Victoria, so join us and put your name in the hat to win a copy of My Immortal!
But I'm telling you about the party and where I'm at today! I'm blogging with my pal Victoria Blisse at her blog. http://www.victoriablisse.co.uk/blog
I'm having a blast hanging out with Victoria, so join us and put your name in the hat to win a copy of My Immortal!
Labels:
Blog Tour,
Blogging,
Characters,
Goddess Fish,
Guest Blog,
Monday Moans,
My Immortal,
Total E Bound
Friday, September 3, 2010
Friday Flirts
I'm tapped out. Ok, not really, but I've been so busy blogging and touring that I haven't had time to really write the way I want to. It's been fun stopping by the new blogs and meeting fans and such, but whew, I'm glad it's Friday.
Where am I today? I'm at Authors By Authors. Yessir. I'm there and blogging and having a great time. Stop by and win!
But you're also here for flirts...
Ok.
Ghost Explorer... He's just about done. Ryan and Samara have cooperated and are ready for their story to CP. Now to corner CP...
Gypsy...she's busy dancing and won't talk to me. I must've waited too long to listen to her. She's my diva so I expect it.
Treble...if I could pin Parker, Jacoby and Clover down, then I'd be in like Flynn.
So I'm going to slink off and try to corrale them before they totally leave me.
Toodles and stop by the tour stop!
Where am I today? I'm at Authors By Authors. Yessir. I'm there and blogging and having a great time. Stop by and win!
But you're also here for flirts...
Ok.
Ghost Explorer... He's just about done. Ryan and Samara have cooperated and are ready for their story to CP. Now to corner CP...
Gypsy...she's busy dancing and won't talk to me. I must've waited too long to listen to her. She's my diva so I expect it.
Treble...if I could pin Parker, Jacoby and Clover down, then I'd be in like Flynn.
So I'm going to slink off and try to corrale them before they totally leave me.
Toodles and stop by the tour stop!
Labels:
Blog Tour,
Blogging,
Flirty Friday,
Goddess Fish
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Thank You Thursday
For today I have two things to mention.
One: Thank you to those who've hosted me on my tour so far. It's been a blast to stop by your blogs and to talk about my work. Also, thanks to those places I haven't stopped but are on the docket for the rest of the week and next week. I appreciate you helping me get the word out.
Two: Thanks to those who've entered in for the copy of My Immortal. I love getting comments and feedback about my work and when you enter and leave a comment, it helps me get better as a writer.
So where will I be today? Embrace the Shadows! Stop by, keep me company, and enter to win. It's that easy. I'll look forward to seeing you there!
One: Thank you to those who've hosted me on my tour so far. It's been a blast to stop by your blogs and to talk about my work. Also, thanks to those places I haven't stopped but are on the docket for the rest of the week and next week. I appreciate you helping me get the word out.
Two: Thanks to those who've entered in for the copy of My Immortal. I love getting comments and feedback about my work and when you enter and leave a comment, it helps me get better as a writer.
So where will I be today? Embrace the Shadows! Stop by, keep me company, and enter to win. It's that easy. I'll look forward to seeing you there!
Labels:
Blog Tour,
Blogging,
Goddess Fish,
Guest Blog,
Thank You Thursday
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
What the? Wednesdays
Normally today would be my day to ask the eternal question...what the?
Not today.
Nope. Today I'm in a great mood. Why? Today I'm in day three of my tour and I'm at Fangtastic Books. Now I gotta tell you, I've been looking forward to going there because I had such a great time talking about why I wrote a vampire novel. Want to check it out? Sure you do. Simply click the button. It'll take you there. :)
And don't forget to comment. You could win a copy of My Immortal or another title from my backlist if you have MI.
See you there!
Not today.
Nope. Today I'm in a great mood. Why? Today I'm in day three of my tour and I'm at Fangtastic Books. Now I gotta tell you, I've been looking forward to going there because I had such a great time talking about why I wrote a vampire novel. Want to check it out? Sure you do. Simply click the button. It'll take you there. :)
And don't forget to comment. You could win a copy of My Immortal or another title from my backlist if you have MI.
See you there!
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