Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Guest Blogging Over at Whipped Cream!

I've got a guest blog up over at Whipped Cream. Whew! Forgot I'd written it. Check it out while I finish mopping and scrubbing the house. First day of school always means I need to get lots of laundry done, mop the floors-no one in the house so no one stomping through the wet floor-, scrub the potties cuz apparently the males of the household don't believe that hitting the pot is important. Blech. So read the post, comment and I'll get my chores done so I can comment, too!

Monday, August 29, 2011

Monday Moans and a Stop!!!

I had a Monday Moans post but hey, I get to talk about Ohio all week long over at Annette Snyder's blog. How cool is that? Here's the link: http://annettesnyder.blogspot.com/

Come on over and join me!!!

And while you're out and about, head over to Goodreads and check out this awesome review for Ever Fallen in Love. It's good to see a fellow author appreciates my work.
Read it here.
Did you ever make a really huge mistake that you regretted like forever? Well, this is Tucker’s problem. He thought he knew it all and had a grip on what was best for him in his life. He made the decision to turn away from Megan and go for the gusto and glory of stardom.

But as it turns out, Megan was the best thing that ever happened to him and life just wasn’t the same after his wilful decision. So how can he atone for the past and prove to her that he is the one for her and will be devoted to her from now on? Wow, a really tall order for a man like Tucker. And the story that follows makes for an exciting, sexy read.

I liked Tucker. He’s gritty and real. Strong willed and sexy. He is not a cardboard character by any means. Megan is strong on the outside and vulnerable on the inside. She’s determined to live life by her own desires. She’s a little in conflict with herself because one of those desires just happens to center around the man who let her down in the past.

They share kinky desires but this isn’t just another BDSM story with rigid rules and protocols. Tucker and Megan create their own games and their own fun and their coming together is smoking hot.

Wendi writes so well, she puts you right up there near the track and you can smell the fuel burning, hear the tires squealing and feel the vibrating pulse of the engines roaring. Check this story out. It will get your pulse racing.

Friday, August 26, 2011

Flirty Friday ~ Updates and Stuff ~ Where I'll Be

So this whole business with the hurricane, and justifiably so, is crazy serious. It's gonna get bad if things go the wrong direction.

The businesswoman in me says that if you're gonna hunker down, why not load down the nook, kindle, ereader with my books? Gives you something to do while being in safety.

The mother in me says, just make sure you stay safe. Find somewhere that hopefully won't blow away, get soaked and make sure you have lots of drinking water and food and blankets and batteries.

You're in my thoughts.

But if you aren't in the path of the hurricane and have nothing to do...

Please Remember Me is out in print and getting rave reviews. Pick up copies of Ever Fallen in Love and What Might Have Been while you're at it. And do enjoy!

Savin' Me comes out in September (the 12th!) in the Treble Anthology from Total-E-Bound. It's my first time in an anthology, so I'm stoked.

Tomorrow I'll be over at Whipped Cream's Yahoo loop chatting. Come check it out. Random prizes all day, Nook/Kindle/$150 GC up for grabs. Megan's chatting on Sunday so yeah, you should be there.

I've got my usual huge load of WIPs going. Gypsy's story got a huge bump when Allan and Todd finally told me their stories. Thanks, guys.

And, I signed the contract this week for When You're With Me. Yup, the stripper and the third Crawford Boys book, (it's a side story to Right and Please) comes out in March of 2012 (wow that seems to close yet so far away) from Total-E-Bound.

I turned in the Greek, so we'll see what happens to him.

Have a great weekend, stay dry, read, and check out the chats!

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Thank You Thursday


And this is why all soldiers and pets are great.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

What the? Wednesday....Allergies

I wanted to get some writing done and to get ahead with the EDJ. Unfortunately, mother nature conspires against me. Gads my allergies are acting up. Every time I turn around, I need to blow my nose or grab a tylenol. Ugh. It's not even an every day thing...today they just went out of control. I'll come up with a better, not so drive-by quick post tomorrow. Going to lay down for a bit.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

WINNERS!!!!

I should've posted these this morning, but I was out of town, so better late than never...congrats to everyone and if you haven't nabbed a copy of Ever Fallen in Love, you should *g*








Saturday, August 20, 2011

Day Four Redux....yeah, I kinda deleted the post by accident....oy

This posted on Thursday, but I'm a goob and accidentally deleted it. Fire me.



Where am I today? Anita Philmar's blog. I totally encourage you to head over there. And hey, you can put your name in the hat for the GC! I'd do it if I were you.

Oh and the spotlight over at Whipped Cream is still going throughout the week. Today is the last day for that, too. :-) Come on over. Hey, it's another chance and who doesn't want to win a GC? One of the days I've got a vingette with Megan and Tucker as well as more cool stuff. Check it out!

Want more info on Ever Fallen in Love? Here's the blurb:

Tucker lost the love of his life once, but this time, he’s not taking no for an answer.

Once a driver, always a driver...


Racing consumes Tucker Poston’s life. Until he sees her again...Megan Rodney. She’s the one person to come between him and his ride. She’s the only woman to understand him. The only woman he’s ever loved. Circumstances tore their love apart. Now he’s determined to show her the contents of his soul, even if it means losing his heart.

Being a driver doesn’t warm his lonely nights. Too bad she’s not interested.

Megan’s not about to fall for his smooth lines and slick image. She’s got a good life as a team owner for a stock car team. Still, memories of their love affair burn bright in her mind. What’s a girl to do when the man of her dreams, the man who pushed her away, wants a second chance at forever?

Reader Advisory: This book contains a little spanking, anal play, and domination shared between former lovers, but no one’s complaining. For good measure, there’s the sizzling use of a Camaro hood for outdoor pleasure.

Get your copy here!

And here's an excerpt cuz I wanted to:
“Just once I’d like to catch a God damned break.” Tucker Poston had pulled into his garage stall and wrenched his race helmet from his head. “Bastard knew I was there and still shoved me into the wall.” He tossed the safety gear out of the window. “This shit has to end. I’m tired of racing crashed cars.”

“Just like Cline knew you were there the week before, and yeah, the shit has to end. I’m tired of replacing crashed cars.” Guy Turner tapped on the roof of the car. “Get out, Poston.”

Tucker ground his teeth together. Just what he needed…his ass handed to him on a platter. He wriggled out through the window. “Mr Turner, I swear—”

“Spare me the excuses.”

Raking his fingers through his hair, Tucker glanced at the midway. Although he heard Guy’s rant, the words didn’t register above the roar of cars thundering down the backstretch. The tangy scent of race fuel and motor oil permeated the air. A whip of late-October breeze caressed his cheek. He noticed none of it after the flash of chestnut hair caught his eye. He shifted position to keep her in view, using the guise of removing the rest of his safety gear. He had to see this woman again. Make sure it was her.

“Are you listening to me?” Guy stepped into Tucker’s line of sight. “She’d better be cute.”

Tucker stared at his car owner. “What?”

“I know you ain’t gettin’ any—when you do, you race well. Eighth place doesn’t win races. So I am to assume you’re checking out a woman.” Guy turned and whistled. “Holy shit.”

“What?” Tucker tugged the zipper on his uniform down and flapped air into the suit. October in Virginia wasn’t that hot.

“You’re staring at Megan Rodney.”

“Nah,” he lied as he rubbed his eyes and caught a flash of her face in his mind. Megan. Heat stirred low in his belly. Memories of Megan and their past rushed into his brain—the taste of her kiss, the tickle of her hair on his cheek, the low tone of her sigh when they made love.

The moment he told her goodbye.

“I oughta set you up with her. She needs a good lay and you need to get your head out of your ass.”

“Sure, sell me for parts.” In Megan’s hands, he’d willingly offer whatever parts she wanted. His cock, his mouth, his tongue… Damn. If he didn’t get his priorities straight, he’d be caught in the middle of the garage with a hard-on.

“Shit. You ain’t got any parts she could use other than someone to direct her team. Women don’t need to own race teams.” Guy threw his hands in the air. “Since we’re in the garage area, why don’t we talk cars? Got any ideas for how we make your speeds better? I’d love to have both my cars finish the race for a change.”

Tucker turned his back on Megan’s position. The cars. Right. Focus on something other than his cock or his irritation towards Guy Turner. “Maybe we should share equipment like you promised at the beginning of the season. Boyd’s team could stand to share their findings once in a while.” He followed behind Guy as he strolled away. “I can make things work if I have the right equipment.”

Guy stopped at the second car. “Lower your voice.” He groaned. “You make it sound like I give you shit and expect miracles.”

“My rear end gear broke in two straight races. Makes me wonder what you are giving me.”

“You want good stuff? Prove to me you can handle it. Boyd gets better stuff because he’s twenty-three and winning. I put the money where the performance is.”

“But—”

“No buts. Step up, improve your attitude, and I’ll consider a change. Keep up the DNFs and you’re out. Plain and simple.”

Friday, August 19, 2011

The Last Day of the Tour



It's the last day of the tour and I have to say I'm a little teary about it. I love the blogs and the hopping. I love talking to readers. It's always a blast.

But today is the last day, so where am I? I'm hanging out with my dear friend Nancy over at My Odd Little World. I've had a great time at her blog in the past and I totally encourage you to head over there. And hey, you can put your name in the hat for the GC! I'd do it if I were you.

Oh and the spotlight over at Whipped Cream is still going throughout the week. Today is the last day for that, too. :-) Come on over. Hey, it's another chance and who doesn't want to win a GC? One of the days I've got a vingette with Megan and Tucker as well as more cool stuff. Check it out!

Want more info on Ever Fallen in Love? Here's the blurb:

Tucker lost the love of his life once, but this time, he’s not taking no for an answer.

Once a driver, always a driver...


Racing consumes Tucker Poston’s life. Until he sees her again...Megan Rodney. She’s the one person to come between him and his ride. She’s the only woman to understand him. The only woman he’s ever loved. Circumstances tore their love apart. Now he’s determined to show her the contents of his soul, even if it means losing his heart.

Being a driver doesn’t warm his lonely nights. Too bad she’s not interested.

Megan’s not about to fall for his smooth lines and slick image. She’s got a good life as a team owner for a stock car team. Still, memories of their love affair burn bright in her mind. What’s a girl to do when the man of her dreams, the man who pushed her away, wants a second chance at forever?

Reader Advisory: This book contains a little spanking, anal play, and domination shared between former lovers, but no one’s complaining. For good measure, there’s the sizzling use of a Camaro hood for outdoor pleasure.

Get your copy here!

And here's an excerpt cuz I wanted to:
“Just once I’d like to catch a God damned break.” Tucker Poston had pulled into his garage stall and wrenched his race helmet from his head. “Bastard knew I was there and still shoved me into the wall.” He tossed the safety gear out of the window. “This shit has to end. I’m tired of racing crashed cars.”

“Just like Cline knew you were there the week before, and yeah, the shit has to end. I’m tired of replacing crashed cars.” Guy Turner tapped on the roof of the car. “Get out, Poston.”

Tucker ground his teeth together. Just what he needed…his ass handed to him on a platter. He wriggled out through the window. “Mr Turner, I swear—”

“Spare me the excuses.”

Raking his fingers through his hair, Tucker glanced at the midway. Although he heard Guy’s rant, the words didn’t register above the roar of cars thundering down the backstretch. The tangy scent of race fuel and motor oil permeated the air. A whip of late-October breeze caressed his cheek. He noticed none of it after the flash of chestnut hair caught his eye. He shifted position to keep her in view, using the guise of removing the rest of his safety gear. He had to see this woman again. Make sure it was her.

“Are you listening to me?” Guy stepped into Tucker’s line of sight. “She’d better be cute.”

Tucker stared at his car owner. “What?”

“I know you ain’t gettin’ any—when you do, you race well. Eighth place doesn’t win races. So I am to assume you’re checking out a woman.” Guy turned and whistled. “Holy shit.”

“What?” Tucker tugged the zipper on his uniform down and flapped air into the suit. October in Virginia wasn’t that hot.

“You’re staring at Megan Rodney.”

“Nah,” he lied as he rubbed his eyes and caught a flash of her face in his mind. Megan. Heat stirred low in his belly. Memories of Megan and their past rushed into his brain—the taste of her kiss, the tickle of her hair on his cheek, the low tone of her sigh when they made love.

The moment he told her goodbye.

“I oughta set you up with her. She needs a good lay and you need to get your head out of your ass.”

“Sure, sell me for parts.” In Megan’s hands, he’d willingly offer whatever parts she wanted. His cock, his mouth, his tongue… Damn. If he didn’t get his priorities straight, he’d be caught in the middle of the garage with a hard-on.

“Shit. You ain’t got any parts she could use other than someone to direct her team. Women don’t need to own race teams.” Guy threw his hands in the air. “Since we’re in the garage area, why don’t we talk cars? Got any ideas for how we make your speeds better? I’d love to have both my cars finish the race for a change.”

Tucker turned his back on Megan’s position. The cars. Right. Focus on something other than his cock or his irritation towards Guy Turner. “Maybe we should share equipment like you promised at the beginning of the season. Boyd’s team could stand to share their findings once in a while.” He followed behind Guy as he strolled away. “I can make things work if I have the right equipment.”

Guy stopped at the second car. “Lower your voice.” He groaned. “You make it sound like I give you shit and expect miracles.”

“My rear end gear broke in two straight races. Makes me wonder what you are giving me.”

“You want good stuff? Prove to me you can handle it. Boyd gets better stuff because he’s twenty-three and winning. I put the money where the performance is.”

“But—”

“No buts. Step up, improve your attitude, and I’ll consider a change. Keep up the DNFs and you’re out. Plain and simple.”

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Tour Day Three!!! I'm at TWO Places!!



So the tour continues and I have to say I have had a blast. Today should be a real workout - I'm at TWO locations today. I'll do my best to keep up.

So where am I? Book Junkie!! Now I have to say I've had a blast there in the past and today should be no exception.

Where else? News and Reviews from the Heart of the Dragons Den, that's where. I hope you'll join me and comment and put your name in the hat for the GC. You should.

Oh and the spotlight over at Whipped Cream is still going throughout the week. Come on over. Hey, it's another chance and who doesn't want to win a GC? One of the days I've got a vingette with Megan and Tucker as well as more cool stuff. Check it out!

Want more info on Ever Fallen in Love? Here's the blurb:

Tucker lost the love of his life once, but this time, he’s not taking no for an answer.

Once a driver, always a driver...


Racing consumes Tucker Poston’s life. Until he sees her again...Megan Rodney. She’s the one person to come between him and his ride. She’s the only woman to understand him. The only woman he’s ever loved. Circumstances tore their love apart. Now he’s determined to show her the contents of his soul, even if it means losing his heart.

Being a driver doesn’t warm his lonely nights. Too bad she’s not interested.

Megan’s not about to fall for his smooth lines and slick image. She’s got a good life as a team owner for a stock car team. Still, memories of their love affair burn bright in her mind. What’s a girl to do when the man of her dreams, the man who pushed her away, wants a second chance at forever?

Reader Advisory: This book contains a little spanking, anal play, and domination shared between former lovers, but no one’s complaining. For good measure, there’s the sizzling use of a Camaro hood for outdoor pleasure.

Get your copy here!

And here's an excerpt:
“Just once I’d like to catch a God damned break.” Tucker Poston had pulled into his garage stall and wrenched his race helmet from his head. “Bastard knew I was there and still shoved me into the wall.” He tossed the safety gear out of the window. “This shit has to end. I’m tired of racing crashed cars.”

“Just like Cline knew you were there the week before, and yeah, the shit has to end. I’m tired of replacing crashed cars.” Guy Turner tapped on the roof of the car. “Get out, Poston.”

Tucker ground his teeth together. Just what he needed…his ass handed to him on a platter. He wriggled out through the window. “Mr Turner, I swear—”

“Spare me the excuses.”

Raking his fingers through his hair, Tucker glanced at the midway. Although he heard Guy’s rant, the words didn’t register above the roar of cars thundering down the backstretch. The tangy scent of race fuel and motor oil permeated the air. A whip of late-October breeze caressed his cheek. He noticed none of it after the flash of chestnut hair caught his eye. He shifted position to keep her in view, using the guise of removing the rest of his safety gear. He had to see this woman again. Make sure it was her.

“Are you listening to me?” Guy stepped into Tucker’s line of sight. “She’d better be cute.”

Tucker stared at his car owner. “What?”

“I know you ain’t gettin’ any—when you do, you race well. Eighth place doesn’t win races. So I am to assume you’re checking out a woman.” Guy turned and whistled. “Holy shit.”

“What?” Tucker tugged the zipper on his uniform down and flapped air into the suit. October in Virginia wasn’t that hot.

“You’re staring at Megan Rodney.”

“Nah,” he lied as he rubbed his eyes and caught a flash of her face in his mind. Megan. Heat stirred low in his belly. Memories of Megan and their past rushed into his brain—the taste of her kiss, the tickle of her hair on his cheek, the low tone of her sigh when they made love.

The moment he told her goodbye.

“I oughta set you up with her. She needs a good lay and you need to get your head out of your ass.”

“Sure, sell me for parts.” In Megan’s hands, he’d willingly offer whatever parts she wanted. His cock, his mouth, his tongue… Damn. If he didn’t get his priorities straight, he’d be caught in the middle of the garage with a hard-on.

“Shit. You ain’t got any parts she could use other than someone to direct her team. Women don’t need to own race teams.” Guy threw his hands in the air. “Since we’re in the garage area, why don’t we talk cars? Got any ideas for how we make your speeds better? I’d love to have both my cars finish the race for a change.”

Tucker turned his back on Megan’s position. The cars. Right. Focus on something other than his cock or his irritation towards Guy Turner. “Maybe we should share equipment like you promised at the beginning of the season. Boyd’s team could stand to share their findings once in a while.” He followed behind Guy as he strolled away. “I can make things work if I have the right equipment.”

Guy stopped at the second car. “Lower your voice.” He groaned. “You make it sound like I give you shit and expect miracles.”

“My rear end gear broke in two straight races. Makes me wonder what you are giving me.”

“You want good stuff? Prove to me you can handle it. Boyd gets better stuff because he’s twenty-three and winning. I put the money where the performance is.”

“But—”

“No buts. Step up, improve your attitude, and I’ll consider a change. Keep up the DNFs and you’re out. Plain and simple.”

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

The Tour Continues...at the Forbidden Bookshelf!


So who won the GC?

Karen C!!!

Email me off blog and I'll get you your prize!
Congrats!!!

Where I am today?
Why, the Forbidden Bookshelf, that's where. Come on and join me. I love to chatter and welcome comments.

Tucker lost the love of his life once, but this time, he’s not taking no for an answer.

Once a driver, always a driver...


Racing consumes Tucker Poston’s life. Until he sees her again. Megan Rodney. She’s the one person to come between him and his ride. She’s the only woman to understand him. The only woman he’s ever loved. Circumstances tore their love apart. Now he’s determined to show her the contents of his soul, even if it means losing his heart.

Being a driver doesn’t warm his lonely nights. Too bad she’s not interested.

Megan’s not about to fall for his smooth lines and slick image. She’s got a good life as a team owner for a stock car team. Still, memories of their love affair burn bright in her mind. What’s a girl to do when the man of her dreams, the man who pushed her away, wants a second chance at forever?

Contains a little spanking, anal play, and domination shared between former lovers, but no one’s complaining. For good measure, there’s the sizzling use of a Camaro hood for outdoor pleasure.


Monday, August 15, 2011

Anniversaries, Tours, and Releases....OH MY!


I'm starting the tour today and heading over to Romance With Attitude. Go over there, AFTER you do something for me here and hey, you could win a GC to Amazon or BN.

So what do you have to do here? Well, this is my tenth release and the first story I'd ever written, so today is a little anniversary for me. A special occasion. Now, do you want to win a GC to Amazon or Total-E-Bound, today? Comment. Yup. BUT, you have to give a little about your first love. Megan was Tucker's first love. Mine? He was the son of a friend of my mom's. We're still friends, even if things didn't quite work out. So now's your turn.

And while you're at it, nab a copy of Ever Fallen in Love and a print copy of Please Remember Me. Both are out today!
Tucker lost the love of his life once, but this time, he’s not taking no for an answer.

Once a driver, always a driver...

Racing consumes Tucker Poston’s life. Until he sees her again...Megan Rodney. She’s the one person to come between him and his ride. She’s the only woman to understand him. The only woman he’s ever loved. Circumstances tore their love apart. Now he’s determined to show her the contents of his soul, even if it means losing his heart.

Being a driver doesn’t warm his lonely nights. Too bad she’s not interested.

Megan’s not about to fall for his smooth lines and slick image. She’s got a good life as a team owner for a stock car team. Still, memories of their love affair burn bright in her mind. What’s a girl to do when the man of her dreams, the man who pushed her away, wants a second chance at forever?

Reader Advisory: This book contains a little spanking, anal play, and domination shared between former lovers, but no one’s complaining. For good measure, there’s the sizzling use of a Camaro hood for outdoor pleasure.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Flirty Friday

So it's Friday. Time to talk about what's on the schedule, what's coming up, and what I'm up to.

On the Schedule?

Ok, I had a guest coming 8/15, but circumstances have put the interview off for a time. Nichelle, my heart goes to you.


Monday! Monday! Monday! On Monday, I'm talking about my latest release, Ever Fallen in Love. This is a near and dear to my heart because it's got a racing arc to it and it's the first ever thing I'd written. It's very much edited and revised since that originally penning. But in celebration of the release, I'm having a contest. Want to take part? Win a GC to Amazon, BN or TEB? Stop back and comment on Monday about your great love. Easy Peasy. And while you're at it, Please Remember Me comes out from Total-E-Bound in print. Want a copy? Click here. It's sure to be a treat.

What else is happening next week? I'm the Spotlight Author over on Whipped Cream. Cool, huh? There's a contest going over there, too. Read my spotlights. You'll learn new things about me and should have some fun.

What's Coming Up?

I'm chatting on the Whipped Cream Yahoo loop on 8/27. Come on over and have a blast for the Anniversary Bash. You could win a kindle, nook or $150 GC to Amazon or BN. Cool, eh?

September 11th, I'm blogging over on Hitting the Hot Spot. I'm not exactly sure what I'm going to talk about as well, it's a heavy day. But come check it out and maybe we can swap stories.

September 12th - Treble Antholgy releases from Total-E-Bound. I'm really psyched about it because it's the first anthology I've ever taken part in. Parkur, Jacoby, and Juniper were fun to write and I hope the fun I had translates into the story.

What am I up to?

I'm always working on Gypsy's story. Seems she gets sullen and doesn't want to cooperate. It happens.

I've had a request for me to finish my firefighter story. I gave bits of it to a friend and she wanted to know how the whole thing comes together. Might have to dust that one off and get moving on it.

I'm still wavering on finishing the sequel to Careless Whisper. Lis really wants her story told, but I don't know. Thoughts?

Anyway...unless I'm helping Megan or working with the CPs I'm going to get some writing done this week. (I hope.)

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Thank You Thursday ~ A Review for Grey's Lady!


Grey's Lady by Natasha Blackthorne
Total-E-Bound Publishing
Historical, m/f,
Novella
Available now!
Philadelphia, PA 1812.

Seeking sexual excitement and conquest, poor but beautiful Beth seduces wealthy merchant prince Grey Sexton, only to find herself the pursued as he seeks to own her body and soul.

Flouting the moral standards of Jeffersonian America, temptress Beth McConnell lets no man touch her heart. Her motto is love them once and leave them burning.

But when she boldly seduces Grey Sexton, a self-controlled merchant prince from New York, she finds herself too fascinated by his ice-over-fire nature to stay away. His possessive determination to own her, body and soul, threatens to expose her secret erotic life to public shame.

But Beth will only surrender her love to a man she can trust. And Grey's materialistic approach to relationships leaves her little reason to believe he can ever give her what she truly needs.

For these two cynical yet lonely people, can deep sexual intimacy work a miracle and lead to the opening of their hearts?


She wants a good time. He wants a good time. Then they have each other and sparks not only fly...they scorch everything in sight.

I've said I'm not a big one into historicals. I don't seem to get them. Maybe it's the lingo, maybe it's the clothing. I can honestly say the tide is turning.

I picked up Grey's Lady because I'd read Waltz of Seduction. I like the author's way with words and the depth of the story. Naturally I had to see what else this promising author had in store.

I'm glad I did.

I felt like I was right there with both Grey and Beth. There is more than a few moments where things get tense between these two strong-willed people. Yes, there were times when Beth's motivations weren't clear, but rest assured. Everything is explained and worked out. I really enjoyed Grey. He's terse at times, coddling at others, but he's always got a flair with what he does. He's sexy and I couldn't get enough reading about him.

There are lots of twists and turns and emotional turmoil that makes Grey's Lady a good read indeed. Grab a copy today.
http://natashablackthorne.blogspot.com/

What the? Wednesday...So You Got a Bad Review...

We've all had them...reviews that we don't like. It's a fact of life, there will be people who don't particularly care for your work. Just as there are those who will love it. You can't predict who will be a lover and who will be a hater.

So what do you do? You've written this book you love and think is the beans. Being an author is hard. You have to release your baby to someone else for them to rip apart. Then once you've put it back together, you have to send it to someone else for more ripping - enter the editor. Now, if you've got an editor worth his or her salt, then you should be fine. If you've got a strong story...same thing.

No one author will produce a perfect work. Think about it. The laws of averages are against you and me. So? Now you've sent that work to the editor and he/she's accepted it. There's the next round of edits (as many as four or five if necessary) and the *gasp* release day.

That's when the fun begins. You've worked hard, listened to your editor, kept your writing voice intact...what will the readers think? Will they like? Hate? So-so?

The last thing an author wants to do is produce something that's crap. We don't set out to produce something that's sub-par. Shocking, I know. But what the reader/reviewer has to keep in mind, and the author for that matter, there are occasional blunders. The author tries something that maybe isn't as strong, the author has a plot hole no one saw...stuff like that. It happens.

Now, the book's out and it's being reviewed. You can, hide in a hole, disappear from cyberspace (always a fun one), grin and bear it, or get angry.

Hiding and disappearing isn't bad. Why? You probably know the review is out there and if it's constructive (like my multiple reviews for Tangled Up), you are certainly learning from it. You might even be forming an idea to work with it and strengthen it. If it's not so nice...honestly...grin and bear it. It will more than likely hurt (no one wants to be trashed or have their work trashed), but look at it this way: every author gets their work trashed. From JK Rowling going to umpteen publishers, to Stephen King writing short stories because he couldn't sell the longer work, people won't like everything you write.

For example, I loved Bag Of Bones. Goodness, I had dreams/nightmares about the book. I swore it was real and I'd lived it. Now, I went on Amazon. For the 600 or so 5 star reviews, there was at least 300 that rated it 3 or lower. Are we reading the same book? Yup. But it's that thing...personal opinion.

Stephen King could easily go on a rampage and say everyone should love his book. Or even expect all those poorer reviews/ratings be taken down. He could--he's got clout. Me? Not so much. And if he did get angry, what good does it do? Really? None. Why? Because you end up looking like a diva and people are leery to work with you. It doesn't help you and in many cases it will hurt. Going on a public place, like your blog, to rip the reviewer a new one will get you into more trouble. Your readers see it and it doesn't do you any good.

So honestly, grinning and bearing it is the best idea. As Desiree Holt says, "Don't whine, don't complain, and don't grouse and you'll be fine." She's right.

Monday, August 8, 2011

Monday Interview ~ Natasha Blackthorne

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I want to welcome my dear friend and critique partner, Natasha Blackthorne. Her very first novella with Total-E-Bound, entitled Grey’s Lady. Welcome! Let’s get down to the questions so everyone can get to know you and your work. What was the inspiration behind Grey’s Lady?
The inspiration came while reading a book on male-female sexual interactions in Revolutionary and Federalist Philadelphia. After I had read this book, in a quiet moment, Grey, the hero, “showed” me the story through his perspective. He was staring out the bookseller’s windows at the rain and the gray sky. He made eye contact with Beth, the heroine and in that moment she touched him deeply with her sadness that mirrored his own feelings that he was disconnected from.

Ah, you have a hero that talks to you, too. Cool. What accent inspires you to do naughty things? Boston Brahmin

Ooh! Now we know where you get your inspiration from. Wink, wink. Speaking of inspiration, what can readers expect next from you?
White Lace and Promises is the second book in the Carte Blanche series and the sequel to Grey’s Lady. It is due for release December 26, 2011.
The next book in the CB series is titled Alex’s Angel and is set in Philadelphia in 1793 right after the devastating yellow fever epidemic. Sheltered Emily Eliot finds herself alone, making her own decisions for the first time. When desperation leads her to sell her virtue, she walks straight into trouble—and into the arms of gorgeous, golden haired Alexander Dalton. Alex’s Angel is due to be released February 28, 2012.


You’re so prolific and planned out. Very good. Now, since we’re talking about being planned out, what is the best thing about being a writer? The writing. The worst? The writing.

I totally hear that. Sometimes writing is the enemy and the savior. When it’s the enemy, what is your method of breaking through writer’s block?
There’s no other way for me but to turn it all over to the subconscious and let it work it things out. I try to distract myself with other things.

Ah, the distractions. I love distractions. So, what fuels you as an author to continue to write?
My own imagination. It demands that I bring what it shows me to life. For me, writing is a necessity like breathing or eating. Even if I had no access to paper and pen, I’d be writing in my head.

You sound so busy. I’m jealous. Since you’re busy, I’ll ask this. When you get a chance to read, what books do you love to read?
I love reading social history or biography. I also read quite a bit of erotic romance.

In your reading, what bores you? What really pulls you out of a story?
Lack of emotion and the human element.

I’m going to ask the fun questions that have nothing to do with writing. Hee hee. What is your favorite feature on a person?
Eyes.

Yes. I’m a sucker for eyes, too. Deep blue or deep brown. Or Gerard Butler. Ehem... Back to the questions. What is your favorite time of day?
Between 12am and 6am.

Night owl. *g* What music gets you dancing?
Oldies all the way. 80’s New Wave or 70’s R&B

Awesome. I’m going to dig out my old oldies pop records. And yes, I have records. We’ll have a ball. Now...Aliens have landed on the planet. What are the three things you would tell them that are great about this planet?
Cats, ice cream and flannel sheets.

Hee hee. Cats are the best. So, if you could share one major writing tip, to help other writers in their quest for publication, what would it be?
Remember that writing is a craft. Study all you can about writing craft and apply it but always respect and trust in your own processes.

Cool beans. Now that we’ve got the dirt, where can we find out more about you and your work?
Please come visit me at my blog, watch my book videos on Youtube or friend me on Facebook,
http://natashablackthorne.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/people/Natasha-Blackthorne
http://www.youtube.com/user/Natashasromancevideo




Want to know more about Grey's Lady? Here's the blurb!
Seeking sexual excitement and conquest, poor but beautiful Beth seduces wealthy merchant prince Grey Sexton, only to find herself the pursued as he seeks to own her body and soul.

Flouting the moral standards of Jeffersonian America, temptress Beth McConnell lets no man touch her heart. Her motto is love them once and leave them burning.

But when she boldly seduces Grey Sexton, a self-controlled merchant prince from New York, she finds herself too fascinated by his ice-over-fire nature to stay away. His possessive determination to own her, body and soul, threatens to expose her secret erotic life to public shame.

But Beth will only surrender her love to a man she can trust. And Grey's materialistic approach to relationships leaves her little reason to believe he can ever give her what she truly needs.

For these two cynical yet lonely people, can deep sexual intimacy work a miracle and lead to the opening of their hearts?

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Flirty Friday

It's Flirty Friday. I'm sitting and watching the same Queen documentary again. Yes, again. Hey, that Freddie Mercury is charismatic. And even with the moustache, he can really work the mini skirt.

Ok, so flirts...

I got my vid for Ever Fallen In Love yesterday and yes, I love it.


Cool, huh? Goddess Fish does the best work. Lurve them. Really, I do. Want to know more about Ever Fallen In Love? Here's the blurb:

Tucker lost the love of his life once, but this time, he’s not taking no for an answer.

Once a driver, always a driver...

Racing consumes Tucker Poston’s life. Until he sees her again. Megan Rodney. She’s the one person to come between him and his ride. She’s the only woman to understand him. The only woman he’s ever loved. Circumstances tore their love apart. Now he’s determined to show her the contents of his soul, even if it means losing his heart.

Being a driver doesn’t warm his lonely nights. Too bad she’s not interested.

Megan’s not about to fall for his smooth lines and slick image. She’s got a good life as a team owner for a stock car team. Still, memories of their love affair burn bright in her mind. What’s a girl to do when the man of her dreams, the man who pushed her away, wants a second chance at forever?

Contains a little spanking, anal play, and domination shared between former lovers, but no one’s complaining. For good measure, there’s the sizzling use of a Camaro hood for outdoor pleasure.


Available now for preorder and releases on August 15th!!!


So what else is on the docket?

I've been working with Megan to get her most recent sub done. It went out last night so fingers crossed.

I've got the stripper story, When You're With Me, almost done. One more scene to finish. The rest has been by CP so....we'll see.

I'm waiting to hear from CP on the Greek I gave a second chance to. I hope it's in decent shape.

Megan got a challenge, so I'm going to help crit and work with her to get that one done.

And I will look at Gypsy's story...wander past, think about it, look at it again, and probably keep strolling...I am so bad.

I'm still on the fence about my ghost story. I ended with a cliff hanger of sorts. It doesn't seem to have found it's niche and I am wondering if I should continue the two book series. Thoughts?

Let me know. I am listening.

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

What the? Wednesday...Who Prices Those Things Anyway...

Ok, so I've talked about reviews, writing reviews, what should go in one, what shouldn't...and when you've gone beyond reviewing the book to reviewing the author.

I thought today I'd hit my last point and talk about price.

Granted, there are a lot of ebooks that are expensive. I believe Stephen King had a hissy about one of his books being the same price in e-form as in hardback. I can't say I blame him. But the thing to consider here--he didn't set the price--the publisher did. So if you get a book from a distributor and you feel it was too much, try going to the publisher site. Shop around. Trust me, you will find a better price.

We authors want you to review, read, and enjoy our work. That's why we write--we want to make others happy, fill our drive to be creative, and in some cases just to get the characters to hush.

So, shop around, really read the blurb, and consider what you want. It's your money and the authors really do want you to be happy.

Thoughts? Ideas? Things you want to throw? Let me know. I'm open to talking.

Monday, August 1, 2011

Monday Moans ~ When Characters Won't Talk

I try to do a Monday Moans every week, you know, to let the characters run for a little bit. I like to let them loose from the cage here and there. But I've got a little problem. They don't want to talk.

If you're a writer, what do you do when the characters won't talk to you? Why do I ask? I'm stuck, that's why.

It's like they know they should be saying something, but they're staring at me with petulant looks on their faces. You want something, we don't want to put out...deal.

BUT I DON'T WANT TO DEAL!!!

Oh well. Maybe they'll be chatty next week.

In other news: I got a review! Yup. For Please Remember Me. I have much love and respect for Whipped Cream Reviews. I guess it's because even when they give a lower rating, it's done with tact, eloquence, and you learn something.

The author puts the reader in the position of not knowing what the truth is and what should come next. When you think you have it figured out, here comes another curve ball. The emotions, the heat and the conflict are almost tangible and suck you in like a vacuum.

Not bad, eh? I'm pretty pleased.