Escape to an Erotic Fantasy

Off Topic

2012-01-23T01:00:00.000-08:00

Well the AFC and NFC championship football games are now over, the Superbowl is in two weeks. The teams I wanted to win didn't but they both play very good games and have nothing to be ashamed about.

While I'm disappointed, I realized that if these players give up they'll never get anywhere. The same goes for writers. We can't give up on our first rejection or bad contest scores.

Perseverance is what is going to keep us in the game.

While we may not succeed today, we have to continue to write, the more we write the better we get. In sports, they practice, have workouts, and watch films. In writing, we write, read craft books, do on-line workshops, read other writers and write more.

Don't every give up, you will get there no matter how long it takes you.

Cover of His For The Weekend

2012-01-16T01:00:00.000-08:00

I received my cover of His For the Weekend, don't have a release date but will keep everyone update.

So here's the blurb:

Cassandra Adams has a problem andits name is Marcus DeLuca. The man is quite determined to have her--on histerms. Cassie has had enough of domineering men in her life, yet she's drawn tostrong, virile Marcus. Tempted to get that man out of her system once and forall, she agrees that she will be his for a weekend only--but thenhe must leave her alone forever.

Marcus will do anything to getsexy, non-committal Cassie into his arms, into his bed--failure is not anoption. He wants nothing more than to keep Cassie in his life, but hesenses a secret that keeps her from being able from committing--fromsubmitting--to any man. Will Marcus's special brand of domination free her tobe his for more than a weekend?

And here's the cover:

So what do you think?

Authors, Reviewers, Readers

2012-01-09T01:00:00.000-08:00

In this last week there has been a lot of conversations around authors, reviewers and readers.

What has been happening in a nut shell, is some authors are feeling the need to take reviewers to task for posting negative reviews of their books, then when other readers defend the reviewer the author becomes even more upset. Language used by the author is inflammatory, derogatory and darn right shameful (In my opinion.).

I do not agree with an author doing this, to me, it means the author is lacking professionalism. Reviewers and readers are the mainstay of any authors career, they mean everything. If readers don't read your book, then you have no career. If reviewers don't like your book, maybe there's a reason for it.

I have received negative reviews, but I also realize what I write is not everyone's cup of tea. As a reader, I pick up books I figure I'm going to enjoy, but that doesn't mean I enjoy all of them.

Reading is subjective, along with everything else in media. What I like, someone else may not. What they like, I may not.

The key is to be professional about it. Reviewers are stating their opinion of the book good or bad, they try to be objective, but sometimes the subject matter isn't for them. Does that mean they should be raked over the coals because they posted a negative review? Not in my book it doesn't.

I sometimes read reviews of books I'm not sure about, these reviews both good and bad help me see if the book is for me. There could be something in the book that I don't want to read.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion, good, bad or otherwise. I have had spirited discussions with critique partners, family and writing friends when we disagree on something, but it hasn't damaged the relationship because we have different opinions. We're all entitled to our opinions and that's find. Just don't put the other person down, call them names, make inflammatory or derogatory comments.

As a reader or author or reviewer, how do you feel about this?

Happy New Year

2012-01-02T01:00:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe but 2012 is here. I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season. I had a nice one, but now it's time for me to get back to work.

I reviewed my 2011 goals and I didn't do too bad, I've made up my 2012 list of goals. The biggest changes I will have this year is retiring from the day job and becoming a full time writer, plus a move to a new state to a brand new home.

This is exciting and scary all at the same time.

One of my goals this year is to be a bit more visible on social media, Facebook and Twitter.

So if you'd like to friend me on Facebook click here

On twitter click here

Have a great week.

Guest: Liz Flaherty

2011-12-19T06:50:00.000-08:00

Today my guest is Liz Flaherty. Welcome Liz.

Thank you for having me here today, Marie. I’mhaving a great time traveling around looking for a warm place to light.

Tell us alittle about yourself.

I’m a country girl,married 40 years to my true-life hero, grandmother to the Magnificent Seven. Isew—not well, by any means, but a lot; I’m on a mission to make a bed-sizequilt for each of the Seven. I’m on Number Five right now and he’s champing atthe bit. Unfortunately for him, I chose now to learn how to do triangles andI’m doing them rather…badly. And slowly.

I’m on a fitness binge right now, hoping tolose to a healthy weight. I’ve gotten there before, but maintaining it has always been beyond me. I’m feeling sowonderful now that I hope this is my time.

What do likethe most and the least about writing?

What I likemost is the doing of it. I just love words and how they can be transformed intosuch beautiful things.

What I like least, hands down, is promotion. I feel asthough I’m constantly asking people to like me and annoying them in theprocess.

Give us a peek into your latest published work?

ONE MORESUMMER will be out from Carina Press on January 2—what a way to start the newyear! Here’s what it’s about.

Grace has taken care of her widowed father her entire adultlife and the ornery old goat has finally died. She has no job, no skills andvery little money, and has heard her father’s prediction that no decent manwould ever want her so often she accepts it as fact.

But she does havea big old house on Lawyers Row in Peacock, Tennessee. She opens a rooming house andquickly gathers a motley crew of tenants – Promise, Grace’s best friend sincekindergarten, who’s fighting cancer; Maxie, an aging soap opera actress whohasn’t lost her flair for the dramatic; Jonah, a sweet gullible old man with acrush on Maxie.

And Dillon, Grace’s brother’s best friend, who stood her upon the night of her senior prom and has regretted it ever since. Dillon rentsGrace’s guest house for the summer and hopes to make up for lost time and pasthurts – but first, he’ll have to convince Grace that she’s worth loving…

What’s nexton the writing horizon for you?

It’s theholidays, so I’m not being terribly productive, but I have started—though I’mstill at the stage of writing a page and promptly deleting two—a sequel to ONE MORE SUMMER. It’s a new avenue for me, so we’llsee how it pans out.

Is thereanything you want to tell readers?

MerryChristmas! I hope you have a most joyous holiday season and the best yearimaginable in 2012. Thank you for stopping to visit.

Here's an excerpt from One More Summer:

Beautiful?Grace stood in front of the mirror and stared curiously at herself. No, not byany means. But—she reached up to fluff the hair drying into soft curls on topof her head—better. Undeniably better.

Lights were on in the cottage in the trees, and she wondered whatDillon was doing. Then her gaze fell on the gazebo with its torn screens androtting floor and her stomach twisted into a knot that felt like a fist pushingits way to the outside. A shudder rippled through her and she clutched thewindowsill for support.

He said beautiful. Put that in your pipe and smoke it, Papa. She stroked her arms firmly with the palms of her hands, as thoughbrushing away the bruises Robert had left there more times than she couldcount. Less often after he’d cut her face with his ring, but often enough shestill expected to see dark spots on her skin.

She was restless. Enlivened. Part of it was the adrenaline fed byher fear for Promise. But another part was the attractive haircut, the memoryof Dillon’s thumb stroking her cheek and his voice saying softly, “Beautiful.”

The echo of that voice still fell on her ears when she reached forthe oversize T-shirt she wore to bed. She immediately put it back down anddonned a dress Faith had given her. No more than a slip of thin cotton knit ina dark cranberry color, its neckline scooping low both front and back, it fellto her ankles without binding anywhere. Not only was it comfortable, it madeher feel sort of…sexy.

Grace’s cheeks burned at the turn her thoughts had taken, then shegot mad for blushing and wondered if she had any nail polish around. She’d justpaint her toenails, so there. It wasn’t like there was anything wrong withsexy, was there?

Downstairs, she poured a glass of wine, even though it was onlyMonday night, and slipped quietly through the kitchen and porch doors into thebackyard. She stood for a moment, undecided what to do now that she was outhere, and frowned in disappointment when the first drops of rain began to fall.

Unwilling to relinquish the freedom of being outside alone in thedark, she walked around the side of the house to the seldom-used front porch.Her mother’s beloved rattan furniture was still there, but she settled into thepadded swing that faced Lawyers Row. She sat sideways, dropped one foot to setthe swing in motion, then drew her knees up.

Dillon’s soft whistle preceded him around the house. He steppedonto the porch, carrying a wine bottle and a glass, and sat uninvited on theother end of the swing. His thigh brushed her bare toes and she made to drawaway, but his hand clasping her foot stopped her retreat.

“How’s Maxie’s headache?” he asked, kneading the foot with arhythmic motion. His thumb found the nail of her big toe and stroked over thepolished surface. Again and again. Slowly.

Grace’s entire body turned to gooseflesh. “Better. She went tosleep early. Jonah sat with her, massaging her temples. Promise tried to tellme he was crazy about her, but I didn’t think so. Maybe I was wrong.”

“Love takes back roads sometimes.” His voice sounded hollow, andwhen she tried to meet his eyes, she couldn’t. What back roads had he traveled?And how had he been hurt on those travels?

They sat in silence that was both companionable and fraught withawareness, sipping wine and—once—clinking their glasses in an unspoken toast

“Tell me about where you’ve been,” she said suddenly. “What you’veseen.”

“No.” He softened the refusal with a tickle on the arch of one ofher feet, then reached to refill her glass. “You tell me. Tell me what’shappened to Grace Elliot since her date for the prom didn’t show up.”

“Nothing. I’m the same as I was then.” She was, mostly. The damagehad been done long before prom night. “And I haven’t been anywhere, so I liketo hear about where other people have gone.” And I like to hear your voice.It makes me feel…

Even in her thoughts, she couldn’t put into words how the sound ofhis voice touched her. How it stroked over her skin like tenderness. How itstrengthened her spirit to the point that facing another day was something tobe anticipated instead of dreaded. Her tongue loosened by the wine, she said,“Please.”

Hetold her about England and Ireland , making her see thatched roofs and pubs innarrow lanes and more shades of green than she could imagine. He skipped overFrance because he said he hadn’t liked it there and spoke with admiration offree-spirited Australians, adopting horrendous accents in the telling that madeher smile.

The wine bottle was nearly empty when he said, “That’s the end ofthe travelogue.”

“No, it’s not.” She reached, turning his face so he could nolonger avoid her eyes. “You haven’t mentioned Iraq .”

He hesitated. “Didn’t you see enough of war living with RobertElliot all those years?”

“That was cold war, and it’s over.” Though she shivered as shesaid it.

“War’s over for me too.”

“No, it’s not.” It’s back there in the guesthouse in that bookyou’re writing—I’d bet my big toe on it.

“The soldiers were so bored most of the time,” he began, “and yetthe fear was something you could taste. Fear and sand and strangeness. Youcould sense courage, and a feeling of rightness. I stayed longer, dug deeper,listened harder. I saw more than I had ever seen before.” He lifted his glassto his lips and drained it.

The pain was thick in his voice, even in the grip of his fingerson her foot. Without taking the time to think about it, she laid her hand onhis.

When he clasped her wrist to pull her to him and fold her into hisarms, she didn’t pull away, nor did she stiffen. His heart beat strong andsteady under the hand she rested on his chest, and she stroked with light,hesitant touches. She wanted to give comfort, but didn’t know how.

He held her so tightly it hurt, but at the same time sensationflowed blissfully through muscles and into places she’d known she had buthadn’t given all that much thought to recently. It was like a salve on theomnipresent worry over Promise’s illness. Grace sat quiet in Dillon’s arms andrealized for the first time in her life that sometimes the giving of comfortleads to ease for the comforter.

She realized something more too. That there was heat wherever hetouched her. With the heat, came longing. It started in her toes, still warmfrom the touch of his fingers, and rumbled through her body to rest low in herabdomen. Even as she settled more comfortably into his embrace, she blamed thesensations on the dress, the unaccustomed varnish on her toenails, the haircut.

But it was more. It was more.

Findme at http://lizflaherty.com

Emaillizkflaherty@yahoo.com

Twitter@LizFlaherty1 or look me up on Facebook!

Thanks for being here today, Liz.

New Sale

2011-12-12T01:00:00.000-08:00

I can't remember if I announced it or not, I've sold my 4th book, His For The Weekend, to The Wild Rose Press.

This book has a special place in my heart, it was only the 2nd erotic romance I'd written, but once it was done I'd put it away. After I sold my 1st book, In Plain Sight, to The Wild Rose Press. I wrote two Cowboy Kink books for them, Quick Silver Ranch: Roped & Ready; and Quick Silver Ranch: Saddle Up.

After Saddle Up was released, I pulled His For The Weekend out and began editing. It was still a good book, had some issues, but I worked on fixing the plot holes and a few other things and submitted it to my editor. And she bought it.

I don't have a release date for the book yet or the cover, but will post when I do.

Have a great week.

Monday Eye Candy

2011-11-28T06:52:00.000-08:00

Today I thought I'd just leave you with a picture for your week. Enjoy

Guest Blogger: Tony-Paul de Vissage

2011-11-21T01:00:00.000-08:00

Today my guest is Tony-Paul de Vissage who brings a little bite to your Monday.

Tell us a little about yourself:

About moi? I like to fall back on the “Official Authorized Biography” for that question, delivered with tongue in cheek. Voila!:

A writer of French Huguenot extraction, one of Tony-Paul de Vissage’s first movie memories is of being six years old, viewing the old Universal horror flick, Dracula's Daughter on television, and being scared sleepless--and that may explain a lifelong interest in vampires.

This was further inspired when the author was kidnapped by a band of transplanted Romanian vampires who were sightseeing in the South. He was returned to his parents with the offer of paying his way through college if he would become a writer and pen positive stories about vampires. His parents, (grateful for the tuition offer since it let them off the hook) agreed.

Though the promise made to his supernatural mentors survived a liberal arts' education and the scorn of friends and family, marriage, parenthood, divorce, and a variety of occupations ranging from stage work to doctor's assistant took precedent over writing for several years, as did moving from one United States coast to another.

Eventually that first story--a short story about the hapless vampire Clan Andriescu--was published. A voracious reader whose personal library has been shipped more than 3,000 miles, Tony-Paul has read hundreds of vampire tales and viewed more than as many movies.

Whew! That’s a lot, isn’t it?

What do like the most and the least about writing?

What I like most? Seeing that book listed as being released and having someone ask me to tell them about it (Guess that’s two things, isn’t it?)

What I like least? The time it takes to write a novel. I used to be able to get one done in three weeks, edited, proofed, and ready to go. Now, it takes a team of horses to get me to sit at the computer long enough to write, though I may have the story all plotted out and ready to go in my head. Apparently I’m getting lazy with each passing day or something like that.

Give us a peek into your latest published work?

My latest published work is an anthology of short stories, Sweet Sips of Blood, published by Vamptasy Publishing, UK. Here’s the blurb:

Some vampires want to have their cake and eat it, too…

Sweet Sips of Blood…a collection of vampire tales written with a pen dipped in crimson icing… After the Apocalypse of 2012, humans and vampires unite to face an assault from a mutual foe… A famous writer of vampire novels goes too far with her latest literary effort… A vampire with a toothache seeks out an unusual dentist…

Blood will Freeze…Working-class Vampires…the Best Dentist in Orange County… and seven other short stories, some whimsical, some sad, a couple horrific, but all designed to titillate, amuse, and chill…

Sometimes the vampire gets his “cake”; in others, he’s still outside, staring in through the bakery window. Like the sweet sips of blood sustaining the vampire’s existence, these stories are sweet sips of vampires’ secret souls…

What’s next on the writing horizon for you?

I just finished my fourth novel, The Last Vampire Standing, which is a contemporary, vampire story set in the South. It’s not a romance, however, but a more “traditional” vampire story with some very unusual sex involved. I’m also currently working on getting Dark God Descending (originally published in 2008 and not out of print) re-issued. Then, I have a 7-book series to tackle, the Second Species.

Is there anything you want to tell readers?

Vampires aren’t just for Hallowe’en anymore!

EXCERPT from Sweet Sips of Blood

“The Best Dentist in Orange County”:

The pain jerked him out of Unsleep like a fish being hooked from a lake.

What the Hell? For several seconds, he didn’t recognize what was happening. Then, the sharp burning stab again shot through his right upper canine. I have a toothache! It was a new sensation but not one he’d care to have for very long, Domingo decided. Since pain was little more than a vague memory, he had no idea what to do or how to stop it, so, as always, as he’d done when he was alive, he turned to the one person he was certain could help him. His sister, Liseta.

He was out of the black-sheeted bed and through the door, quite literally—Domingo never bothered with the inconvenience of opening a door—before he realized he was still naked. Materializing back to the bed, he found the robe at its foot, hastily shrugged it on, belted it, and appeared again outside in the hall.

Liseta was in the sitting room, knitting just as she had through the centuries no matter where they resided. She’d begun the habit while they were still in Spain, fashioning warm sweater-like garments for the children of the servios who lived on their father’s grounds. After their hasty escape from their beloved birthplace, she had continued the practice. When they settled in Orange County, following a slow progression across the United States, Dom had informed her that now that they were in California, no one needed heavy-weight bulky-knit pullovers. Adaptable as ever, Liseta switched to a lighter yarn and now knitted tank tops instead.

Good Will Industries seemed particularly grateful.

As he stumbled through the door, one hand against his right jaw, she looked up and smiled brightly. That always annoyed him. How could anyone be so cheerful this early in the evening? He himself was a midnight-owl, didn’t really get his fangs out until just before the witching hour! Well, they were definitely out now, and aching savagely.

“Good evening, hermanocito. You’re up early,” was her statement of the obvious. She nodded disapprovingly at his loosely belted robe and tousled hair. “—and not dressed, either.”

Brushing his hair out of his face, Dom dropped onto one of the Queen Anne chairs and sprawled languidly. “Don’t start, Lisi. I-I think I’m ill!”

That startled her. The clicking needles stopped their motion. “Ill? What do you mean?”

It should be apparent, he thought. Did I always walk around with one hand clamped to my face? “M-my fangs hurt. I think I have a toothache.”

Now, she looked worried. “How could that happen? Have you bitten anything tough lately?”

“No...” He thought a moment, grimacing as the upper eye-tooth again sent out a vicious throb and a memory of the night before returned. “...wait...yes!”

“When? Where?”

“Well…” He hedged a moment.

“Where did you go last night?” she demanded, expecting the worse.

Domingo had a habit of lurking in the most disreputable places, outside bars and pool halls. Lately, he’d started hanging out near escort agency entrances. He shrugged, trying to look nonchalant. “Over to Laguna Beach. They were supposed to be filming a movie there and I thought it would be easy to find some prey.”

“And did you?” She didn’t try to hide the exasperation in her voice.

He shook his head. “Not really. I got my dates wrong. The filming’s not until tonight, so the beach was nearly deserted. There were only a couple of late-night surfers available.” He looked a little sheepish. “I waylaid one of them. Guess that’s when I broke my fang.”

The surfer had been a muscle-bound, bull-necked oaf whose jugular was iron-tough. He had almost gnawed through it to get a single drop. And the bastard had the effrontery to actually put up a fight!

“Dom!” Her expression as well as her voice held irritation. As if he were five instead of five hundred, he thought resentfully. “I wish you wouldn’t go to the beach. Who knows what the ocean could do to you? All that moving water, and salt and...”

“...the sad crying of the gulls...the whisper of the waves...the silver of the moonlight on the billows...” he added, softly. “You know how I like to watch the fog roll off the water and creep slowly across the PCH. And the cold, seeping into my bones, making them ache with longing... Doesn’t that give you una tembladera deliciosa?” He shivered with intense exaggeration.

“Such pretty sentiments, chico,” she agreed. “You always did have the heart of a poet.”

“Not any longer,” he corrected, shaking his head sadly.

She looked surprised. “But of course, you do! It’s in that little carved teak chest in your bedroom—” She stopped as Domingo continued to shake his head.

“It was getting rancid. I fed it to one of the wolves on my last trip to the San Diego Zoo.”

Liseta looked sympathetic. “That’s too bad. It took you so long to find just the right one.” She reached out and patted his shoulder comfortingly. “But you’ll get another, I’m certain.”

BUY LINK for Sweet Sips of Blood click here

Thank you for being my guest today Tony-Paul.

Running Behind

2011-11-14T06:32:00.000-08:00

There are weeks I feel I'm running behind and this last week was one of them.

It seemed no matter what I did, I didn't seem to catch up. But that is a writers life. Right now I'm juggling several different projects.

I'm working on edits for His For The Weekend, which is under contract to The Wild Rose Press. Then I'm getting ready to pitch a book to another editor this upcoming weekend, I have another book out to another editor and my WIP is my head wanting to be written now.

Oh and did I mention I'm also taking two on-line classes.

It's now always easy to plan the writing out, I don't always know when edits will show up or when an editor will get back to me on a submission. Plus with the day job, I don't always have the time to deal with the day to day stuff of being a writer.

It's hard to fit everything in, with family, day job and writing, there are days I feel like I'm being pulled in twelve different directions.

Things will get better, I'm taking things one step at at time so I don't feel so overwhelmed.

Have a great week.

Cowboy Spanking

2011-11-07T01:00:00.000-08:00

Did that get your attention?

I’ve started my new WIP and I’m having a little trouble so I figured I’d come to my blog readers for help.

This is the first committed ménage book I’ve written, while I’ve written menage’s before this is the first one where all three will be a committed threesome.

My two hero’s who of course are both dominate, Ry is my Sheriff and Jed is my Rancher/Cowboy. Now these two play off each other really well, but what I discovered in talking to my characters. Yes, I talk to them but that’s a different story. Jed likes to be spanked, he gets off on it.

Would it turn you off as a reader to have one of the hero’s like to be spanked, and want to be spanked by the heroine?

I’m walking a fine line here and I want everyone’s opinion on how they would feel about this. I want to know if you’d read it or not.

I’m looking forward to your answers on my new WIP.

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T01:00:00.000-07:00

I want to wish everyone a Happy Halloween.

If you have time today, come visit Short Story Seduction to see the finish of the story Unmasked, just click here.

And Here's a little eye candy too

Where is Time Going

2011-10-24T06:36:00.000-07:00

Where does the time go?

I have to ask myself this question almost daily. As a writer, I spend as much time as I can on my writing, yet it seems like the day is spent on other things.

I know a lot of writers struggle with time management, I include myself in that group. Some days I'm very good at it and other days I'm not.

Some ways to help:

Figure out where your time goes. I've done a pie chart, draw a pie and put it into 24 pieces then write on those pieces what you do - each piece represents 1 hour
Write down everything you do as you do it, this will show you how much time you're spending on specific tasks
Delegate where you can. Can someone else do the dishes? Cook dinner? Do laundry? This isn't always possible, but delegate what you can
Don't over commit yourself. I'm very bad at this, I over commit all the time. It's hard to say no, but writing is your job so sometimes you have to
If you have issues with the internet or twitter, I handle this two ways. Set a time and when the timer goes off you must closed down the internet or get off twitter. Or you can allow yourself 15 minutes after you've written for 45 minutes.

I'm sure there are more ways, but these are some I use to help myself stay in control of my time.

If you have some time management tips please share them, I'd love to hear them.

Guest: Jennifer Jakes

2011-10-17T01:00:00.000-07:00

Today is my guest Jennifer Jakes who is taking about her current release Rafe's Redemption.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m married and we have two daughters. I’ve been a Jack of all Trades – everything from a hairdresser to a dump truck driver. And it’s all been fun. I’ve been able to mark several things off my “bucket list”. We live in the Midwest where the long summer of 100 degrees temps is over and the gorgeous fall colors are making an appearance.

What do like the most and the least about writing?

I hate writing the first 3 chapters! These are the ones that I always end up deleting all, or at least part of, time and time again. I think it’s because I’m still learning about my characters and trying to let them lead me.

Give us a peek into your latest published work?

RAFE’S REDEMPTION

He rode into town to buy supplies, not a woman.

For hunted recluse Rafe McBride, the raven-haired beauty on the auction block is exactly what he doesn't need. A dependant woman will be another clue his vengeful stepbrother can use to find and kill him. But Rafe's conscience won't let him leave another innocent's virginity to the riff-raff bidding. He buys her, promising to return her to St. Louis untouched. He only prays the impending blizzard holds off before her sultry beauty breaks his willpower.

She wanted freedom, not a lover.

Whisked to the auction block by her devious, gambling cousin, and then sold into the arms of a gorgeous stranger, outspoken artist Maggie Monroe isn't about to go meekly. Especially when the rugged mountain man looks like sin and danger rolled into one. But a blizzard and temptation thrust them together, and Maggie yearns to explore her smoldering passion for Rafe.

But when the snow clears, will the danger and secrets that surround Rafe and Maggie tear them apart?

What’s next on the writing horizon for you?

I’m almost finished with edits for a novella, TWICE IN A LIFETIME. (Watch my website for details for the release)

Is there anything you want to tell readers?

I’d like to ask them a questionJ What is your favorite time of year? And why? (OK, that’s two questions.)

Here's an excerpt of Rafe's Redemption:

Oh, Lord. He was going to kiss her. She shouldn’t want this. She was confused enough. Respectable women didn’t kiss men they barely knew, certainly not men who made them have wild, exotic dreams.

It was crazy. He was making her want crazy things. Making her not give a damn about her reputation or her virginity. Or her long-awaited freedom. All she could think about was that dream, and the way his sinful mouth had felt. The table was only a step away, and honey was just as sweet as peach juice…

She swallowed hard and looked up into his hooded eyes.

“Maggie,” he groaned. “Don’t be scared. I’d never hurt you.”

Her mouth parted to object, but firm lips covered hers, hungry, demanding. She gasped, shocked at his hunger, but even more at the illicit response coursing through her. An aching heat unfurled low in her stomach, pulsed between her legs. Oh, yes. It started just like in the dream.

He deepened the kiss, coaxed her lips with his warm tongue. Long, languid strokes teased the inside of her mouth, encouraging, tempting before he pulled back to nibble the corners of her lips.

Oh, God. Is this what all kisses felt like? Hot, lethargic? Melting her like molasses over warm bread?

“Kiss me, Maggie,” he breathed.

Thanks for being here today, Jennifer.

The Book That Almost Wasn't

2011-10-10T01:00:00.000-07:00

Last week I talked about how I got my idea of Quick Silver Ranch: Roped & Ready.

This week I want to talk about Quick Silver Ranch: Saddle Up the book that almost wasn't.

I mentioned my original title was Quick Silver Ranch, well after my editor wanted to go to contract for the book, they asked that I change the title. I really liked my title, but came up with alternatives including Roped & Ready and sent them off to my editor.

It was a Friday evening, I was checking my email and had an email from my editor. After talking with the senior editor, if I was willing to write Jared and Angie's book we could go ahead and make it a 2 book series with Quick Silver Ranch in the title.

I sat there staring at the email and sent off an email saying "of course, I'll write it." My head hit the desk. I wasn't planning on writing Jared and Angie's story at least not now. I had no plot, no conflict, I didn't even know who these characters were. After a call to one of my critique partners, she met me for lunch

We did some brainstorming and the next day I started writing. Four days later I had 14,000 words, all of which I had to toss out. Because when I got to the 14,000 word mark I realized Jared was more complex than I realized. So I tossed out those words and started all over again.

I will say, I was pleased with the results. 6 weeks later I had a rough draft of Saddle Up, sent it to my editor who read it gave me some corrections, I did those corrections and sent it back and Saddle Up sold.

I had a blast writing these two book and look forward to writing more book that readers love.

Ideas Come In Strange Ways

2011-10-03T01:00:00.000-07:00

Funny how this year seems to be moving at warp speed.

While this year has been good to me with the release of two books:

Quick Silver Ranch: Roped & Ready and Quick Silver Ranch: Saddle Up

I love these two books, so far they hold a special place in my heart. Roped & Ready was born in my head in December 2009, it was right after I'd turned in my first book In Plain Sight and had my release date.

The Wild Rose Press put out a call for a new series called Cowboy Kink. Since I had some time on my hands (for those who know me please don't laugh), I started thinking about writing a book for the series. But I wanted something different than a typical cowboy book.

I started thinking about a ranch for adults, a place where adults in a committed relationship can explore their kinky side without fear. So I shot an email off the the senior editor who was acquiring for the line with the idea asking her if she thought it would work. She told me to go for it.

After 6 months, I had a book that was ready for an editor to read it and off it went. And I started thinking about the next book I wanted to write. Imagine my surprise when just a short time later my editor emailed me telling me the wanted to buy it.

I was thrilled beyond believe, but the title had to change. My original title was Quick Silver Ranch. I'm not married to my titles, but I really liked this one, but after a brain storming session with my critique partners, we came up with several titles and I sent them to my editor.

Come back next week to find out how the Quick Silver Ranch series actually happened.

End of Summer

2011-09-26T01:00:00.000-07:00

It's the end of September which means the end of summer and the beginning of fall.

Of course, where I live, it's hard to tell the changing of the seasons. The San Francisco Bay Area has so many different micro climates it allows a person to drive 20 miles and the temp can change anywhere from 10-30 degrees. I always dress in layers for this reason. But I don't mind.

With the passing of summer also comes football season, it's one of my favorite times of year. I love watching NFL games on Sunday, Monday and later in the season Thursdays. I also occasionally watch college football on Saturdays.

So do you have a favorite season of the year?

Guest Today: Katherine Grey

2011-09-19T01:00:00.000-07:00

Today my guest is Katherine Grey. Welcome Katherine, glad to have you here.

Tell us a little about yourself:

I was born and have lived in upstate NY my entire life, though as the years go by, I hate the NY winters that seem to last eight months out of the year more and more. I’ve always had a vivid imagination and loved books from a very early age. As I grew older, I found myself reimagining books and movies with endings I wanted, rather than they way they really were. These daydreams soon led me to start putting pen to paper and writing my own stories. Please come and learn more about me at my blog. http://katherinegrey.blogspot.com

What do you like the most and the least about writing?

I love the heady feeling of getting those initial first pages down of a new story. I also love when the characters start taking on lives of their own, taking me down paths I hadn’t originally intended for them. (Okay, sometimes I hate this too.) What I like least is revision even though I do at least two revisions per manuscript. Sometimes, I can get too caught up in rewriting a scene, trying to follow all those “rules” that are drilled in your head when you’re first starting out and end up feeling like I’ve revised the life right out of it.

Give us a peek into your latest published work:

Impetuous is a historical romance set in the Regency period. It’s my debut novel and was released through The Wild Rose Press on August 26^th.

Here’s the blurb:

Mateo de Montayas, an impoverished Spanish count, comes to England to recover a stolen family heirloom and to satisfy his hunger for revenge against the man who destroyed his family. Arriving in London, he learns his hated enemy died three years before but has left behind a daughter. What better way to retrieve the heirloom and exact revenge than to use her to his advantage?

Teresa Darlington will do anything to keep scandal away from her frail mother and prove her father wasn't a thief, even risk her reputation in a race to find the missing heirloom before the Count does. But she didn't count on falling in love with the man determined to ruin her family. Can she find the heirloom before he does and protect her family, or will her heart lead her in a different direction?

What’s next on the writing horizon for you?

I currently have a novella involving a secondary character from Impetuous under consideration with The Wild Rose Press. I’m working on two separate writing projects right now. One is another historical romance and the other set in the present day so it’s easy to switch from one manuscript to the other.

Is there anything you want to tell readers?

I try to encourage readers to give new authors a try (and not just because I am one.) I’ve read some really great books written by first time authors who have gone on to achieve great things. I’d also like to thank everyone for their support.

Excerpt:

This is a short scene from the beginning of the book.

With hatred running hot and molten through his veins, Mateo de Montayas stared at the stately mansion across the street. The windows were aglow with light. Laughter and music spilled out to fill the night air. He shifted position under the shadowy oak tree hoping to catch sight of his quarry. The high and mighty English baronet who celebrated inside had destroyed his family.

Mateo slipped the miniature portrait from his breast pocket. A thin leather cord wrapped around his fingers as he gazed into the eyes of the laughing beauty pictured there.

“I couldn’t help you then...” The pain of failure threatened to overwhelm him. He shoved it down, deep down into a dark place in his soul. He took a deep breath, fighting the anger that rose within. “I will make him pay for your death.” His fingers closed around the small oval. “I swear it, Madre. I swear it.”

Links:

Here are the links to purchase Impetuous.

The Wild Rose Press click here

Amazon click here

Barnes & Noble click here

Thank you, Marie for having me. It’s been a pleasure visiting with you.

Guest Blogger Jannine Corti Petska

2011-09-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

Today my guest is Jannine Corti Petska and she's talking about her current release.

Tell us a little about yourself:

I’m a typical Italian mother and grandmother who dotes on her family and protects them fiercely. I’m half Sicilian and have a devilish temper, which no one in the writing community knows about or has seen. There’s always a charge there, and I believe it’s the reason my heroes are terribly stubborn, ornery and downright irascible. But they all have a good heart. My heroines are fairly high strung and temperamental as well.

If you’d like to read more about me, my bio can be found on my website: www.jcortipetska.com.

What do like the most and the least about writing?

I’d have to say I like the aloneness. I like being home, working on a book, playing with my three Rat Terriers, puttering around in my garden. The solitude helps me concentrate better.

What I don’t like is the aloneness. Dogs can’t hold a conversation. I can only do so much in the garden. And when I hit a road block in my current book, I can take just so much of losing myself in housework or something else that might stimulate my brain. Usually, I’ll go window-shopping for a change of scenery. I’ll grab a Starbucks now and then.

Give us a peek into your latest published work?

THE LILY AND THE FALCON is the first book in my four-book Italian medieval series. It’s set in 15^th century Florence and delves into the tug-of-war between two powerful families for control over Florence. It was first published by Kensington in 2000.

When Cristiano de' Medici asks for Bianca degli Albizzi's hand in marriage, she is outraged. Cristiano's family has long been a sworn enemy, and her father's blessing confuses her. Wed only to end the war between Florence's two powerful families, headstrong Bianca vows she will teach her handsome husband her loyalty cannot be bought...even by someone so seductive.

Cristiano, a well-known warrior with the wealth of a king, could have any woman he desires. But for the sake of peace, he ends up with a defiant bride who awakens his deepest passion. Her vengeful scheming puts them both in peril, but is he willing to sacrifice his life to safeguard the woman he loves?

What’s next on the writing horizon for you?

I’m researching book 4 of my Italian medieval series, after which I’ll research and write book 3 of my medieval psychic sisters trilogy. After that, I haven’t decided yet. There is a notebook filled with notes on over 20 different stories I’d like to write. And I have a shelf of plastic file bins with about 7 other stories I had started researching and abandoned. Then there’s the 8 or so manuscripts I’d like to rewrite. So there’s no shortage of work. However, after I’m finished with my medieval trilogy next year, I will then decide whether or not I want to continue writing. It’s a tough decision to make, but at this point in my life, it’s something that must be considered.

Is there anything you want to tell readers?

I’d love to hear from you. My contact information is on my website.

Excerpt from The Lilly and the Falcon

This short scene is from an outing Cristiano de’ Medici and his betrothed, Bianca degli Albizzi, take. Prior, their conversation had drifted to his previous lovers.

“May I see your hand?”

When he hesitated, she took it anyway and turned it palm up.

“What fetish is this?” he demanded, uncertain of the puzzling grooves that suddenly invaded her features.

“I am reading your lines.” He tried to take his hand away, but she held fast. “You are mischievous by nature, a knave and a thief.”

“I am not a thief,” he objected.

She gave him a coy look. “Mayhap not of property or belongings, but of hearts, I propose.”

He scowled. “Are we back to my lovers again?”

“No, my sensitive lord.” She brushed the underside of his fingers, causing a shiver to race recklessly up and down his spine. “Your long fingers and broad palm reveal much of your character.”

“Explain this witchery,” he commanded, taking back his hand.

“Reading the palm is a science,” she told him with a slight frown. “Many Florentines seek the advice of seers and palm readers, though none would readily admit to it. Know this, my lord. Were I a witch, I would cast a spell on you.”

Then witch she was. What other explanation had he for his obsession with Bianca degli Albizzi?

Buy links:

Digital click here

Paperback click here

Thanks for being here today Jannine.

5 Hearts and I you wouldn't mind

2011-08-29T01:00:00.001-07:00

I don't do this very often because I don't like to impose on my followers. I'm way excited about this so here goes.

The Romance Studio reviewed Quick Silver Ranch: Saddle Up and it received 5 Hearts. I could barely believe it.

If you'd like to go read the review click here

Here's the, if you wouldn't mind. Because I did get 5 Hearts from them I'm part of their Sweetheart vote, if I win I get on the front page of the website which would be totally cool.

So if you don't mind, click here and vote for Saddle Up.

Thanks and have a wonderful week.

The Learning Continues

2011-08-22T01:00:00.000-07:00

I've learned, I can never stop learning.

As funny as that sounds, I find that no matter how many times I've heard a workshop topic, or ask someone questions about something, I can always learn something news.

For those of you who read my books, I have a very light BDSM theme in my erotic romance books. So when the chance to take some classes give by Dr. Charley Ferrer was given to me, I jumped at it.

And I've learned so much and I'm not even half way through the classes yet. This made me realize, there is always something new to learn in writing.

I've heard other writers say "there's nothing new for me to learn." But I've never taken that attitude. In order to keep your writing fresh, your perspective new and keep the brain active, you need to look at things in a new way, or at least that's how I feel.

Just by taking these few classes, the ideas for more books are bouncing around in my brain. I have characters wanting me to tell their stories next (so many characters so little time.) And I'm loving every second of this, because it tells me I'm on the right track.

If you curious about the BDSM world let me recommend two books for you, both written by Dr. Charley Ferrer.

BDSM The Naked Truth - this is for anyone interested in what the BDSM lifestyle is

BDSM for Writers - this is for writers

As I writer I'm finding both fascinating and helping me portray my characters more realistically.

Have a great week.

Author Icy Snow Blackstone

2011-08-18T01:00:00.000-07:00

Today I welcome author Icy Snow Blackstone

Tell us a little about yourself:

Thanks for having me on your site, Marie. Here’s my “official” biography: Icy Snow Blackstone was born in1802, in northern Georgia where her father, the Reverend John Blackstone, was prominent in local politics. She married a minister, raised at least seven children, one of whom also became a minister, and lived there all her life. Two hundred and five years later, her great-great-great-great-granddaughter began using her name as a pseudonym for her romance novels. The present Icy Snow Blackstone (that’s me!) lives far from her Southern roots in Lincoln, Nebraska, where’s she’s a practicing grandmother, artist, photographer…and writer.

What do you like the most and the least about writing?

Other than actually writing the story, I like talking about it. By that, I mean going over the plot with a fellow writer, hashing out the problems with scenes or dialogue. That’s a good way to discover what you’re doing wrong and also to get help with places in the story that are being difficult to write. I have a friend who also writes and she and I do this all the time. It really helps.

What don’t I like? Mainly, waiting to get the next story started! Guess I’m an “assembly line” writer. Once I put “The End” on a story, I can’t wait to go on to the next one and get it in the computer.

Give us a peek into your latest published work?

My newest novel is scheduled for a September released through Class Act Books. It’s entitled Runaway Brother, and I consider it a fun read. I enjoyed writing it and I hope people have as much fun reading it. Since it’s set in the South, I didn’t do all that much research about the geography of the story, and I also used a lot of the knowledge I accumulated while working in San Juan Capistrano where the Mission famous for its swallows is located. I worked in the Trading Post there, where Native American jewelry, pottery, and figurines are sold. Since one of my characters is a former rodeo cowboy who now collects Acoma pottery, I used a lot of that information in the book. Other things I had to look up: Arabian horses and motorcycles…two methods of transportation my hero comes in contact with (in more ways than one) in his ride through the South.

Here’s the blurb:

At the age of twenty-two, newly-graduated Nicolo Liguori is forced by his three brothers to become care-giver for his father, who suffered multiple strokes. For the next ten years, Nick gives up his own ambitions , working during the day in the family jewelry business in Vanderhoek, New York, and returning to the Liguori mansion every night, to be at his father’s beck-and-call. Then Papa dies and Nick is free…or is he? Carlo, Marco, and Pietro expect him to continue life as usual, but Nick has other ideas. Secretly buying a motorcycle, he starts to work one day and… disappears.

Nick gets as far as the southern coast of Georgia before an accident disables his bike. Stranded, with no idea of the South except what he’s seen on TV, Nick isn’t certain what kind of reception he’s going to get. Then, a pretty Southern miss and a white tank disguised as a temperamental horse named Shazam change his life as they and the citizens of Oceano teach a runaway Yankee about life and love in a small Georgia town.

What’s next on the writing horizon for you?

I’ve several writing projects open at the moment and I haven’t chosen which to pursue yet. One is another novel in the Three Moon futuristic romance series, or possibly another entry in a new series, Lovers of Leonesse, which follows the development of a fictional country through the romances of its young people.

Is there anything you want to tell readers?

Just be on the look-out for Runaway Brother. I should have a trailer featured on Youtube.com some time soon.

EXCERPT from Runaway Brother:

He was paying so much attention to the scenery he didn’t realize the coast-road had narrowed considerably and turned to dirt. Looking around, Nick saw trees on both sides, short-leaf pine mixed with sugarberry and water oak and the only reason he recognized them was because the Liguori estate had a small grove on the property filled with the same trees. Along one side ran a fence with barbed wire strung between high thick posts painted black with creosote. Behind that was a meadow filled with purple flowers, stretching into another stand of trees on the other side.

From far off to his right came a faint sound as if someone was beating a drum.

Nick raised his head, looking around, then gave a loud sigh of exasperation. Okay! So I’m lost! He’d just follow the road to wherever it went, probably to some farmer’s front yard. When he got there, he’d apologize, turn around and get himself back to the main drag. If he could find it.

A broken branch loomed ahead, and he turned his attention to it, guiding the bike around it. The drumming came closer.

A second branch and several twigs littered the roadway. Nick was so concerned with maneuvering around them he didn’t see the horse sail over the fence, wasn’t even aware it was there until he looked up and found the white shape almost directly in front of him.

He jerked the wheel to the right, forgetting to apply the rear brakes first. The bike skidded, its back wheel rising off the ground as the front one stopped rolling. He had a brief vision of the animal leaping forward, its rider clinging to its back, wide, frightened blue eyes, flying blonde hair...

The motorcycle went off the road, sliding into the ditch and running up the other side, the front fender striking one of the fence posts. It bounced and rebounded, and Nick went flying over the handlebars, flipping in mid-air and hitting the same post with his back. The bike wavered a moment, then toppled onto its side. Nick slid down the post, landing upside down in the ditch, his shoulders crushing coffeeweed into an aromatic mass.

The pounding hooves stopped. He heard running footsteps, opened his eyes and saw someone running toward him. He closed them again.

“Are you hurt?”

This time when he opened his eyes, he was staring at the upside-down face of a very pretty girl, at least she’d have been pretty if her face wasn’t screwed into such a dismayed scowl.

“Am I hurt?” He managed a growl as he slid further into the weeds and rolled over. “I just hit a fence and got tossed into a ditch! What do you think?” Clambering to his knees, while she plucked ineffectually at one arm, he jerked out of her grasp. “I can get up by my— Ow!”

He’d gotten upright, took a step, and his leg buckled, turning at the ankle. He sat down a little quicker than he intended, back into the weeds again as he ran a hand down his boot to touch his ankle. He could feel angry throbs of heat pulsing through it.

“Maledicta quella ferita!”

“Here.” She slid into the ditch, offering a hand. Reluctantly he took it, being careful not to put too much weight behind it as he let her pull him to his feet. He could see she was worried and he really wasn’t hurt all that bad, but he was angry because she’d been so reckless.

Jerking away, he demanded, “What the Hell’s the matter with you? Jumping in front of me like that! If I’d hit that horse--”

“What are you doing riding this road? This is private property.”

She was too pretty for him to pretend to stay angry, so he toned it down, answering her question. “I got lost. I only wanted to find the end of the road and turn around.”

“You have a way to go. The house is about a quarter of a mile that way.” She nodded toward a group of pines thrust into the road, hiding the rest of it from sight. Nick looked in that direction, then back at her. She, in turn, looked at the motorcycle, still on its side in the weeds. “You seem okay. Is that hurt?”

He limped over and inspected it. The front fender was smashed and ripped upwards. The tire has an impact-split in it and the spokes were bent and twisted. That isn’t too bad, he told himself. Jojo had given him a basic tool set and a crash course in Motorcycle Care 101. I can straighten the spokes and the fender. Get a new tire and be on my-- Hold it! The headlight was smashed, hanging out of the socket like a dislocated eyeball, and the clutch cable... Somehow it had been severed.

“Well?” She appeared to be awaiting his diagnosis.

“Gas tank’s got a hole in it, clutch cable’s severed. Is there a motorcycle shop around here?”

“No, but Marshall’s in town can probably repair it. He does everything from lawn mowers to farm machinery.”

Oh Lord, deliver me from small town handymen! He was about to tell her he didn’t want Marshall touching his bike when he realized, What else am I going to do? Do you have a better idea, Mr. Runaway?

“So which way is town?” He straightened, looked around as if expecting to see the city limits a few feet away.

“Too far for you to push that thing,” she answered, gesturing at the front wheel. “Not with it twisted like that.”

“What do I do then, Miss Not-So-Helpful? Since this is your fault--”

“My fault?” Hands went to her hips. And deliciously slim ones they were, too. Nick had a moment to think she looked anything but angry, though it was apparent she thought she did. Cute, maybe. Hell, he might even say adorable with those blonde wisps floating around her face, but angry? Nope! “Who’s the trespasser? Who had his head down, studying the ground when he should’ve been looking straight ahead?”

“You weren’t ahead of me,” he countered. “You and that white tank of yours jumped a fence and came in from the side.”

She stared at him, taking a deep breath and getting ready for some type of vitriolic response. Memories of The Dukes of Hazzard and how the Duke Boys always verbally got the best of Boss Hawg came into his mind. Well, this Daisy Duke wasn’t getting the best of him. He wouldn’t allow it.

“Never mind. Just let me get the bike upright and point me in the right direction, and…”

“I’ll do no such thing.” That made him stare at her, wondering if she was going to walk away, mount her white steed, and leave him stranded knee-deep in Kudzu or whatever-the-Hell these weeds were. “I’ll ride back to the house and get my grandpa’s truck. We’ll put the motorcycle in it.”

She clambered up the bank, running toward the horse now grazing on the other side of the road. Catching the reins and a handful of mane, she swung into the horse’s back--very gracefully, Nick noted--then turned the animal’s head and trotted it back to him.

He liked the way the jolting gait made her breasts bounce under the jersey tee. Damn, they’re perky little things! Che pezzeta saporita! He forced himself to hide his appreciation. Barely stopped his tongue from coming out and licking his lower lip. Hoped he wasn’t drooling.

“You stay right there,” she told him. “I’ll be back in a jif!” She kicked the horse in the ribs and sent it galloping down the road.

He liked the way her butt bounced, too.

They dodged a tree limb, took the turn and vanished from sight, though he heard the sound of hoofbeats for a few minutes more.

Nick turned his attention back to the V-Rod. It hadn’t moved. Did he expect it to get up and limp over to him like a dog with a hurt paw, whimpering for sympathy? Shaking his head, he leaned against the edge of the ditch, back against a fencepost.

Welcome South, Brother!

Thanks for being here today, Icy.

Guest Today: Toni Sweeney

2011-08-15T01:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my Blog Toni.

Tell us a little about yourself:

Thanks for allowing me this interview, Marie. Now, for that autobiography. As the old joke goes…Got 5 minutes? (Grin). Let’s see…I was born in the South, spent 30 years in the Midwest, a decade on the Pacific Coast, and am now trying for a second 30 years on the Great Plains. I’ve a Bachelors in Art, English literature, and drama, and a diploma in graphic art, and I spent quite a few years as a dancer before I had an auto accident which ended that portion of my career. Being bedridden for so long led directly to my becoming a writer. I write science fiction and fantasy, and under my pseudonym, Icy Snow Blackstone, I write romances.

What do like the most and the least about writing?

I like the actual writing of the story, getting that tale that’s whirling around inside my brain onto the computer screen where it becomes a tangible object, where the characters and the story finally come alive for me. I have a friend who’s also a writer and we spend a lot of time batting ideas back and forth, and sometimes one of us will simply tell the story while the other asks pertinent questions. That really helps.

What I don’t like: Proofing. I generally do about three drafts of a novel before I considered it “finished.” After going over a story that many times, though, I tend to gloss over mistakes and not see them because I’m too familiar with it. That’s when typos and continuity errors get left in. Usually I let a couple of weeks go by before I take a second look at a story. That way, I’ve had time to “forget” it a little and it isn’t still fresh in my mind. That makes it easier to spot errors.

Give us a peek into your latest published work?

My “latest” novel was published in February of this year, though I have a couple scheduled for this Fall. It’s called Wizard’s Wife. And it was released by Class Act Books. Click here for more information. It was a lot of fun to write because I had to do research on Irish faeries and other supernaturals, and I even include a wee bit of a Gaelic glossary at the end.

Here’s the blurb:

The Harmonic Convergence fast approaches and with it comes danger to the Earth and its people…

Cross the Magic Portal into Ais Linn, a dimension where unicorns roam and werewolves prowl… Where a faery wizard and his mortal bride battle the Lord of Dark Fire for possession not only of Ais Linn but of the Earth itself.

Newly-wed Megan McMuir is shocked to discover her husband is a faery, and not just any faery but the Champion of White Fire, sent to protect the Earth from invasion by dark wizard Exeter Dubhtina. As the Convergence begins and David is recalled to Ais Linn, Megan braves the Portal’s dangers to follow him. Soon, she finds herself a pawn in the fight against her husband. The threat from Exeter Dubhtina is a deadly one: Surrender and bow to me or watch your wife and unborn child die.

David has sworn to protect the Earth. Will he break his vows or lose Megan and their baby?

What’s next on the writing horizon for you?

I have two novels scheduled for release in the Fall by Class Act. One, For the Love in Adler’s Brain is a science fiction novella about a sweet young thing who hires a private eye to find her boyfriend’s brain. Oh, the boyfriend’s an android, by the way. The trouble begins when the PI falls in love with her, too. Now, which will it be: metal man or flesh-and-blood one? The other is a suspense-thriller romance entitled Blood Bay. (Think Cape Fear plus anything written by Tammy Hoag.) This one is set on an island near the Golden Isles off the coast of Georgia and is about how a young woman who fights back against an escaped prisoner who’s stalking her.

Those readers who follow my books will notice that many of them are set in the South or have Southerners figuring prominently in them.

Is there anything you want to tell readers?

I’d just like to thank everyone who has bought one of my books, especially those who’ve told me they’ve bought more than one! That makes me feel I’m doing something right. I’d also like to invite your readers to stop by my website. I just added a new sentence to the Home Page: “Dedicated to giving writers the promotion they need through blog, book review, and video.” It’s a promise I made to someone, a kind of “Pay it Forward”.

EXCERPT from Wizard’s Wife:

In this excerpt, David has just told Megan he’s a faery-wizard, and of course, she doesn’t believe him:

Damn it, Megan!” He made an angry gesture, slapping his hands against his thighs. “What can I do to make you believe me?”

“Prove it.” Call his bluff. There’s no way he can prove what he says is true. Perhaps that’ll snap him out of it.

“What?”

“You heard me. Prove to me you’re a faery, I mean a wizard. Go on. Show me how you look when you’re in Wizard-form, World-Champion-Defender-class.”

“All right.” He didn’t even pretend to think about it, just stalked a few feet away and turned back to face her. He thrust both hands in front of him, fingers outspread, palms toward his body.

“You’re serious.” Abruptly, Megan was frightened. He really thinks he’s some type of extra-terrestrial supernatural being. Oh, David!

“Damn right.” The hands moved apart, one above his head, the other hovering near his waist. He brought them together. They passed each other. “There! Would you be thinkin’ this better?”

Now it was Megan’s turn to stare.

Where David had been, there now stood an old man...a very old man...long snowy-white hair, longer snowy-white beard.

Merlin. She had no doubt of it. Wearing a black floor-sweeping robe spangled with crescent moons and stars. On the white hair perched a pointed cap, its peak so tall it had creased and fallen over under its own weight, the tip touching his shoulder.

“Who are you supposed to be?” She was out of the chair before she realized it, running toward him only to skid to a stop and approach a little more cautiously. “And where’s David?”

Merlin looked down at her.

“I’m David,” he informed her with a dignified British accent. “World-Champion-Defender-class wizard.”

“Hah!” Later, she would marvel at her ability to be so sarcastic. “You look more like the Wizard of Id.”

“My apologies, my darlin’.” Looking a little insulted, he swept her a bow that skimmed his sleeves across the carpet. “But is this na your idea o’ how a wizard should look?” He waggled a finger at her. “I’ve lived with you long enough to know how that cute little mind o’ yours works, Meggie.”

“David.” Briefly, her voice held infinite patience. I'll get angry later for that last remark. “Show me how you look. Really.”

“Very well.” The hands moved again, performing the same gesture. Merlin disappeared. David stood in his place.

David. But not David… Oh my God, this is definitely not my husband!

It was the same handsome face, Megan admitted, but changed. Thinner, paler. Copper brows winged above his eyes, not arching as they had before, but arrow-straight. And the eyes themselves... Green like David’s but...there’s no white in them. They were like an animal’s, the entire eye a deep green iris. That, however, wasn’t the most disturbing thing. Protruding from his forehead were antenna. Not butterfly-like but smoky, feathery tendrils floating in the air above his head. They wavered back and forth, like seaweed drifting in a stream, then stiffened and pointed in her direction.

As if they’ve sensed me...homing in...

He turned his head slightly, an ear twitching, and Megan stared. Nearly lobeless, peaked on top. Hello, Mr. Spock! The left one sported a small golden ring with an emerald set in it. She recognized it. It was her wedding present to him.

OK, so this is David… the real David... and I really don't have an argument with the way he looks, even with— I guess the main problem is the wings.

Dragonfly-like, they didn’t come from under his shoulder blades as she’d always suppose wings should, but grew on each side of his upper spine. Not the tiny things shown in drawings of fairies either, but equaling David’s height. Delicately translucent in bronzes and golds, the colors of a Monarch's wings magnified. When they began to flutter, Megan had to dodge to keep from being struck as the right one swept upward, shedding a fine dust which sifted gently onto the antique Persian carpet. It glittered a moment before disappearing.

Reaching out, she touched the wing, running her fingers along the heavy mast-bone. It was soft and furry, felt like a swatch of velvet, and warm. Megan pressed her fingers against it, letting its heat flow into her hand. She would swear she felt a pulse beating against her palm.

Thank you for being here today, Toni.

Rachel Leigh Visiting

2011-08-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

Today fellow Wild Rose Press author Rachel Leigh is visiting telling us about her new release and a bit about her life.

Welcome Rachel.

Tell us a little about yourself:

I live in the UK with my husband of thirteen years and two daughters, 12 and 10. My first venture into erotica was writing short stories for a national UK magazine and then I decided I wanted to write longer stories and an online friend introduced me to erotic romance novellas. I've never looked back!

What do like the most and the least about writing?

Least - Plotting! It always takes longer than I like to get a book set in my mind, when all I want is to get on with the writing. I am a mix of plotter and pantser and usually have a rough idea where I want the story to go but end up writing the beginning three or four times until the characters become clear and I know where they want to go.

Most - The email saying a publisher wants to contract it!

Give us a peek into your latest published work?

My latest story is released today by The Wild Rose Press, yay!! Here's the blurb for "Coming Back"

Kelly Hampton loved once...and lost. After two years of looking for Sean McKenzie in other men--and failing miserably--she takes a vow of celibacy. No sex until she finds love. Then Sean strolls back into her bar, reigniting old flames. No one has come close to understanding or satisfying her like he did. Her body burns for the passion they once shared, but her heart still remembers the pain.

Sean escaped Jessop Hill and his father's fists in the middle of the night without a word--even to his love, Kelly--to protect his battered mother, but he never forgot the explosively erotic relationship he left behind. Now his father is dead and Sean is back for the only woman he's ever wanted. Their reunion is full of fire – but can sexual attraction and noble intentions overcome years of heartache or will Kelly walk away to protect her heart this time.

What’s next on the writing horizon for you?

I have just started my third novella, tentatively called "Greek Gratification" - it has a British hero and heroine but set in the Greek island of Zante where I holidayed a few years ago. This one is all about new beginnings and letting go of the past before you can find something new…oh, and with some hot discovery in between too! ; )

Is there anything you want to tell readers?

I'd like readers to know that every Tuesday & Thursday I have guest erotic romance author either blogging or being interviewed on my blog and we'd love to see you there! Here's the links where you can find my blog & me…
www.rachelleighromance.blogspot.com
www.rachelleigh.co.uk
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachel-Leigh/266044849655

Here's an excerpt for Rachel's new release:

The stranger…all the massive height and width of him kept walking ever closer without as much as a blip to his stride. Kelly stared and when his gaze met hers, recognition hit her between the eyes like a demolition ball. Her breath caught and her heart picked up speed. No. No, it couldn’t be. Swallowing hard, she lifted her chin and crossed her arms to hide the shaking in her hands. He looked away from her, casually taking in his surroundings as he continued to approach the bar. No, she was wrong, it couldn’t be him.

This was a potentially dangerous situation. She was alone, and the guy was built like a Trojan warrior. Instinctively, she inched her hand below the bar and curled her fingers around one of the three aluminum baseball bats dotted beneath it at four feet spaces. Any funny stuff and this arrogant son of bitch wouldn’t know what hit him.

He reached the bar, shook the rain from his dark blonde hair, spattering the polished wood of the bar and looked straight into Kelly’s eyes.

Oh, shit. It was him. Her heart turned over. “Sean?” she croaked.

His smile was slow, sexy and completely irresistible – and Kelly promptly trembled with the effort it took not to leap over the bar and slam his face between her breasts.

Thank you for joining us today, Rachel.

Special Guest: Dr. Charley Ferrer

2011-08-11T01:00:00.001-07:00

Today, I'm please to have as my special guest sexologist Dr. Charley Ferrer.

The origins of BDSM FOR WRITERS is actually a funny story and shows how the Universe works in mysterious ways. First I have to say, I never thought to write a book on BDSM much less one for authors. I actually found myself hyperventilating when I started writing the book. I was so nervous writing for you all (authors), I got major writers block. I mean, you’re the ones I go to for romance and fantasies. Even with seven books on sexuality and self-empowerment and having won an award for Best Self-Help book under my belt, I still trembled when I sat down to write BDSM FOR WRITERS.

Believe it or not, BDSM FOR WRITERS and BDSM THE NAKED TRUTH are here because I read a romance novel. Yep, it’s true. I was reading Joey W. Hill, The Vampire Queen’s Servant, and feel in love with the characters and the writing. It was the first BDSM book I read that actually depicted the lovingly respectful and erotic connection that is at the heart of a Dominance and submission relationship. When I contacted Joey to share how “disappointed I was to learn she was a woman because I wanted to kidnap Jacob, the lead male character in the book”, she chuckled and graciously agreed to appear on my TV show instead since she was attending the Authors After Dark 2011 event hosted by Stella Price in New Jersey and would be in my area.

Stella Price graciously allowed us to film at her AAD Conference and even asked if I’d sit in on the BDSM Panelthey were conducting to help normalize this uniquely erotic and misunderstood lifestyle. After the panel I was asked if I’d consider writing a book on BDSM for authors. Five months later, I not only completed BDSM FOR WRITERS but BDSM THE NAKED TRUTH a slightly different version for the general public.

When you stop and think about it, both these books owe their creation to a romance novel! It’s mind boggling when you stop and consider how an author’s words, may affect another’s life and how that life will affect so many others.

I am self-publishing these books as I refused to have the valuable information contained within them censored in anyway. And though this caused a little delay in getting the books out, they are now available and completely uncensored. They even have surprise forward and dedication for Joey W. Hill, Viola Johnson, and Catherine Gross.

It’s my hope that BDSM FOR WRITERS and BDSM THE NAKED TRUTH opens the door to a greater understanding of the world of dominance and submission and dispels many of the misconceptions perpetuated by Hollywood and novelist who don’t have a full understanding of the respect, affection, and love many in this uniquely erotic lifestyle/orientation share.

Plus I wanted to share that with every book sold $1 will be donated to NCSF (National Coalition for Sexual Freedom) and the Carter Johnson Leather Library; two organizations that work hard at safeguarding our sexual freedom and our sexual expression. And the first 300 people to purchase a copy of my books will receive a $500 Digital Erotic Art collection from Captured Erotica and be entered to win 35 kinky prizes and one mundane one—a Kindle. My way of saying thanks!

I want to thank you all for stopping by and leaving a comment or asking a question. I also want to thank Marie for graciously hosting me on her website.

Live with passion,

Dr. Charley Ferrer

You can find Dr. Charley at:

www.bdsmforwriters.com

www.twitter.com/doctorcharley
www.facebook.com/doctorcharley
www.bdsmthenakedtruth.com
www.instituteofpleasure.org

Thank you for being here today, Dr. Charley and giving us insight to the world of BDSM. I can highly recommend Dr. Charley's books for the writer and for those just interested understanding the BDSM lifestyle.

Up and Down Week

2011-08-08T01:00:00.000-07:00

Last week was a challenge for me.

The day job took all my efforts last week and then some. Usually I can handle the day job, life and my writing, last week that didn't happen.

While it was a long week and I fought each day for time, what little time I did carve away for me I spent reading. It wasn't a bad thing for me to sit and read, it helped me relax and get my mind into shape for the next day.

I dislike weeks like last week, because I wasn't able to write at all, I know this week is a new week and all I can do is my best to do what I need to to. Each day will build on the next, so I will be taking what I call baby steps each day to get back to my writing.

Where Does Time Go

2011-08-01T05:59:00.000-07:00

I have to say I don't have an idea of where time goes.

I woke up this morning and realized I didn't do a blog post for today. I've been very busy during the month of July. Taking care of a family member, working on two different books, reading, attending Romance Writers meetings, trying to keep with my exercise schedule, etc.

It seems like life doesn't stop when I want it to. Sometimes there are not enough hours in the day and sometimes I feel if I had more I would only get further behind. I constantly feel like I'm two steps behind where I need to be.

But I'm convinced August will be a better month.

Have a great week.

Welcome to Barbara Edwards

2011-07-26T01:00:00.000-07:00

Today I have Barbara Edwards on my blog.

Welcome Barbara, Tell us a little about yourself:

I’ve been ebook published for ten years so I’m one of the pioneers in the business with Another Love a historical romance at WingsEpress. The changes have been mind-boggling and I’ve had to learn about using my computer. I spend time on many loops, do blogging, and find time to work on my next book.

What do you like the most and the least about writing?

What I like the most is telling my stories. I love having a reader say she likes this character or that scene. And getting a good review is the cherry on top of my ice cream sundae. What I like the least is being interrupted while I’m writing. There are hours, even days, when business or life in general keeps me away from my stories.

Give us a peek into your latest published work?

Ancient Blood by Barbara Edwards is a paranormal romance from The Wild Rose Press

Lily Alban escapes a murderous stalker, but his vicious attack leaves her with the ability to see auras. She finds safety in the tiny hamlet of Rhodes End where a stranger stands out like a red light. Try as she might to deny her growing desire for Cole, she seeks his help but soon discovers the man she loves is not a man at all.

Werewolf Cole Benedict resists his attraction to Lily. A botanist researching the healing herbs to find a cure for Lycanthropy, he’s determined to protect Lily from her stalker as well as himself even in human form, but instinct takes over when he changes to his inner beast.

Together they must use their extraordinary gifts to catch Lily’s stalker before he attacks again, but revealing their secrets to one another could destroy their growing love or save them both.

What’s next on the writing horizon for you?

I’m in the middle of Book Three in the Rhodes End series tentatively titled Ancient Curse. I also have a contemporary romance about Civil War reenacting under consideration.

Is there anything you want to tell readers?

Dear readers? Oh my, I feel like Ann Landers giving advice. I want you all to enjoy my books. I hope you have an ebook reader so you can download the short stories and carry the long books with you everywhere.

Here’s an excerpt from Ancient Blood:

“Lily?” His strong hands gently cupped her shoulders.

“Don’t, please don’t.”

She pulled away, fully intending to flee. Her resistance shattered, and she turned into his embrace. It was too late to escape. Pressing against his strength, she wound her arms around his neck and pulled him closer. His erection prodded her stomach, and she moaned. A heavy groan filled his throat as he lifted her from her feet. He kicked the bag aside as he sat her on the counter.

“I can’t wait,” he growled. His flaring aura spiraled with colors she couldn’t name. She caught her breath. One hand burrowed through her hair, keeping her still as he stepped between her thighs. “You’re all I could think about all day.”

Clasping her bottom, he slid her to the edge of the counter. With his lips claiming her mouth, he unbuttoned her slacks, than lifted her slightly to push them down and off.

The cold surface only made her more aware of his scorching heat. His rough denim pants scraped her inner thighs in contrast with the silky hair under her palms. Her pulse leaped, and she gasped. His male scent mixed with hints of the wild forest filled her nostrils. When his fingertip explored the heated moisture gathering at her juncture, she tightened her thighs around his hips.

Click here to buy

Visit my website: http://www.barbaraedwards.net

I regularly post on: http://barbedblog.barbaraedwards.net/ or http://barbaraedwardscomments.wordpress.com/

Thank you for being my guest today, Barbara.

Welcome Alison Chambers

2011-07-25T01:00:00.000-07:00

My guest today is Alison Chambers

Welcome to my blog Alison, tell us a bit about yourself:

I’ve been writing since I was eighteen. After reading a lot of Nancy Drew books. I decided to try to write one myself. Since then, I’ve always liked mysteries, especially when the woman is the brave heroine. I’ve spent most of my career in communications and public relations, mainly working with national and local medical associations, so I was able to do a lot of writing in those professions. I also managed to write seven novels and am working on the eighth. “The Secret Sentinel” is available from www.thewildrosepress.com and “The Montezuma Secret” is available from Amazon.com and Smashwords.

What do you like the most and least about writing?

I like creating suspenseful scenes in mysterious places and love heightening the tension as much as possible. While I don’t mind editing, I hate fact-checking, making sure all the descriptions are consistent and that the plot has no holes in it. It’s tedious, but it has to get done!

Give us a peek into your latest published work? Here's a blurb from "The Montezuma Secret"

Hunky Trey Zacco, gritty survivalist and host of the Miami-based Holiday Channel’s hit "Wildman" series and glitz and glamour girl, Erica Kingsley, host of the channel’s "Lap of Luxury" show, are thrown together in the steamy jungles of Belize as a publicity stunt. Erica’s father, Arthur Kingsley, the owner of the Holiday Channel, has proposed the angle, not only to boost ratings, but also as a way to toughen up his spoiled daughter. And Kingsley wants them to search for Montezuma’s lost gold, presumably moved to Belize from the Guatemalan jungle. Zacco cannot hide his resentment at having to share the spotlight with the flighty fashionista Erica, and he locks horns with her every step of the way even as both try to ignore the strong physical attraction growing between them. But when Arthur Kingsley’s plane crashes in the jungle on his way to film the opening of the show, Trey and Erica launch a desperate search to find him. And when, one by one, members of the camera crew are killed and the equipment sabotaged, Trey and Erica find themselves stranded in the middle of the jungle with sultry producer Morgana Montez, Trey's ex-lover, where no rescue crew can reach them.

What's next on the writing horizon for you?

The one I’m working on now is called “Prisoner in his Arms.” It’s a follow-up to “The Secret Sentinel” with a lot of “National Treasure” clues and rhymes. It takes place in a number of mysterious settings around Boston and Washington, D.C. I love developing the relationship between the characters—he the sexy bodyguard and she the damsel in distress searching for the mysterious Virgo Stone which she must find in ten days or her father will die and terrorist attacks will be unleashed on the capitol right before the Presidential inauguration.

Is there anything else you want to tell readers?

The e-publishing world is an exciting and growing one for readers and authors alike. Because of it, we have witnessed the demise of traditional bookstores, including one major one, Borders. It will be interesting to see what will happen next. For authors: keep writing what you love and never give up. Try to block out the critics and naysayers, keep learning and persevere! For readers: there are a lot of options out there. Read what you enjoy, experiment with e-readers and e-books and keep expanding your horizons. I love Half Price Books, because I can read more books that way (because they’re less expensive) and try different books in different genres and on different subjects. It’s a lot of fun!

Here's an excerpt from "The Montezuma Secret"

"Up?" she pointed, unable to believe her ears.
Trey gave her a hard shove.
"Get going!"
"But how?"
"Grab the vines and pull yourself up!" he shouted over the thundering rain.
"You must be joking! It’s got to be one hundred feet high!"
"Good calculation. Now move!"
She stood her ground. "But why?"
"A. There’s no other way. B. I’m ordering you to. And you’ll listen if you ever want to get out of here."
Trey stifled an urge to smack her luscious wet bottom and watched in amusement as she struggled to grab hold of the slick vines, then smirked as she scrambled up a few feet and then landed in the muck with a splat. Her thick mane of black hair, once so splendidly coifed, was heavily matted and caked in mud.
"Again!" he yelled.
Raindrops, big as bullets, pelted her mercilessly. "I can’t do it. It’s impossible."
"Watch the master," he said, stowing the camera in his backpack.
He brushed her aside and grabbed one of the sturdier vines, then pulled himself up arm over arm with the agility of a spider monkey until he reached the top of the cliff where he had a perfect view of the lush jungle canopy and could see for miles.
"Now you know how it’s done. Get your ass up here or I’ll leave you behind."
"You can’t do that. You wouldn’t."
"Pull yourself up, Kingsley. If you have to, use the side of the cliff to push off and boost yourself higher. But watch out for the holes. There may be spiders and bats hiding in those nooks and crannies."
Erica re-tied her sagging ponytail and pinned it to her scalp. Her breath was ragged, her heartbeat erratic.
From above, she heard the sudden monotonous drone of a plane’s engine cutting through the rain splatter, then listened to the sputter as the motor spit and coughed, struggling to stay aloft. Wings slashed through the jungle over her head five hundred feet from her, both turbo props flaming. The plane wobbled and rolled before hitting the ground with an ear-splitting shriek of steel against steel followed by a blinding explosion of light that knocked her off her feet.
A sickening sensation shot through her and she suppressed the urge to vomit. The stench of black smoke as dark as blood filled her nostrils. She knew what had happened. She hoped to God she was wrong, but more than ever she wished with all her heart and soul that she was still safely home in Miami Beach and that she had never come.

From a safe distance, comfortably positioned to witness the entire spectacle, a smiling figure breathed a sigh of relief. It had all gone according to plan. On schedule and on time. They were right where they needed to be. Soon they’d both be dead and no one would be the wiser. Untimely accidents. Marauding terrorists. Ancient Mayan curses. Any excuse would do. Completely believable, considering the dangers of the jungle. They’d just disappear. Perfect. Simply perfect.

Click here to purchase

SUMMER SALE: Only $.99 in e-book format for your Kindle, PC, MAC, iPhone, Blackberry, iPad, or Android
FIVE STARS: "Excellent writing! Enjoyable hero and heroine! Great romance! Fast pace! I read it straight through! Author thorough in research! I lived the experience!"--A reader on Amazon.com

Visit me at www.alisonchambersromance.com or http://alisonchambers.blogspot.com

Thank you for having me!

It was wonderful to have you here today, Alison.

Welcome to Vonnie Davis

2011-07-18T01:00:00.000-07:00

Today my guest is Vonnie Davis

Welcome to my blog, Tell us a little about yourself:

I’m a retired technical writer who is living her dream: I’m writing. My husband is also an autho. His novel, The Phantom Lady of Paris, was released three weeks ago. So we’ve each had a book come out within the past month. We’re in major book promotion mode here at the Davis household. My life is enriched with three grown children and six fantastic grandkids. One could say I’m a late achiever. I never started college until I was forty-four. I found the love of my life at the age of fifty-five. And at sixty-three, I’m achieving a dream—having my first book published.

What do like the most and the least about writing?

Sharing what I dislike the most is easy—the self-promotion. I’m of the generation that was taught, “Self-praise stinks.” I struggle with saying, “Hey, I wrote this fantastic book and you have to read it.”

What I enjoy most is having characters who reach out from the computer screen, grab me by the throat and growl, “Pay attention! This is how the scene should go!” The characters and I don’t usually get on such intimate terms until chapter five or six. Once they start ordering me about, all I do is take dictation.

Give us a peek into your latest published work?

Nurse Rachel Dennison comes to Texas determined to prepare her new patient for a second round of chemo. What she isn’t counting on is her patient’s twin brother, Storm Masterson. Despite her initial attraction, Storm has two things Rachel can’t abide: a domineering personality and a fiancée.

Half Native American, with the ability to have "vision dreams," Storm dreams about Rachel for three nights before her arrival. Both are unprepared for the firestorm of emotions their first chance encounter ignites.

Ultimately, it is Rachel’s past—an abusive, maniacal ex-boyfriend—that threatens to keep them apart…and Storm’s dreams that bring them together again.

What’s next on the writing horizon for you?

I have two projects with editors at The Wild Rose Press. One is a short story set in Texas—oh, I do love cowboys, contemporary or historical. The other was a stretch for me to write. Mona Lisa’s Room is a romantic suspense set in Paris with an American woman celebrating her fortieth birthday, a younger government agent and vengeful terrorists. This is the first of a trilogy. I’m currently working on the first book of a series set in a small mountainous community with a host of interesting characters.

Is there anything you want to tell readers?

I’d rather ask them something, if that’s okay. Please in your comments, tell me what types of romance you like to read? What types of heroines do you enjoy most? Wounded? Comical? Strong and determined? And, of course, I’d love to hear about the types of heroes you sigh over and fall a little in love with.

This is the opening scene of Storm’s Interlude –

Someone swaggered out of the moonlit night toward Rachel. Exhausted from a long day of driving, she braked and blinked. Either she was hallucinating or her sugar levels had plummeted. Maybe that accounted for the male mirage, albeit a very magnificent male mirage, trekking toward her. She peered once more into the hot July night at the image illuminated by her headlights. Sure enough, there he was, cresting the hill on foot—a naked man wearing nothing but a black cowboy hat, a pair of boots and a go-to-hell sneer.

Well, well, things really did grow bigger in Texas. The man quickly covered his privates with his black Stetson. Rachel sighed. The show was evidently over. Should she stand up in her Beetle convertible and applaud? Give a couple cat calls? Wolf whistles? Maybe not.

She turned down the music on the car’s CD player. Sounds of crickets and a lonely bullfrog in the distance created a nighttime symphony in the stillness of this isolated stretch of country road. Lightning bugs darted back and forth, blinking a display of neon yellow glow.

The naked man strode toward her car, and Rachel’s heart rate kicked up. Common sense told her to step on the gas, yet what woman wanted to drive away from such a riveting sight? Still, life had taught her to be careful. She reached into her handbag and extracted her chrome revolver. Before he reached her car, she quickly slid her gun under the folds of her skirt.

Just let him try anything funny—I know how to take care of myself.

Both of his large hands clasped his hat to his groin. His face bore annoyance and a touch of chagrin. “I need a ride.” By his bearing and commanding tone of voice, she guessed the man was used to giving orders and having them followed.

Her eyes took a slow journey across his face. Even in the moonlight, she could see traces of Native heritage. His shoulder-length ebony hair, too long for her tastes, glistened against his bronzed skin. Proud arrogant eyes sparked anger.

Because Rachel believed in indulging herself, she allowed her eyes to travel over his broad shoulders, muscular chest and tight abdominal muscles. She saw a thin trail of dark hair starting below his navel, knowing full well where it ended, and fought back a groan. Her eyes slid back up to lock on his. “You need a pair of pants, too.” Knowing her voice hummed with desire, she cleared her throat, hoping the naked man hadn’t noticed.

He looked up at the sky for a beat. “Just my freakin’ luck! A birthday party gone bad, and now I’m bein’ ogled by some horny kid with damnable blue eyes.”

What the heck was wrong with her eyes? She quickly glanced in her rearview mirror and saw nothing amiss. She narrowed those “damnable blue eyes” and sneered. “Look, buster, I’m not the one prancing around Texas naked as a jaybird. I’ll have you know I’m hardly a kid.” She glanced down at the black cowboy hat. “And, furthermore, stop hiding behind that big ol’ Stetson. From what I saw, a French beret would do the job.”

There, let the arrogant fool stew on that while he struted back to whatever rock he crawled out from under. She slammed her car in gear and sped off.

She swore she wouldn’t look in her rearview mirror. Nope, she would not look. Like a magnet emitting a powerful homing signal, her eyes slowly slid to the glass surface. He was standing where she’d left him….. So, do you think she went back???

Please stop by my blog sometime to visit. Right now I’m part of a Mega-Author Blog Hop. Stop by, follow the directions and leave your comment and email address for eligibility in my drawing. http://www.vintagevonnie.blogspot.com

Visit Vonnie's website by clicking here

Buy Links for Vonnie's book either paper or e-book:

Amazon click here

The Wild Rose Press click here

Thank you for being my guest today Vonnie.

The Perils of Social Media

2011-07-11T01:00:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I did a blog about professionalism and I thought it was a good time to discuss social media.

I didn't create a Facebook account until after I sold my first book, knowing it was a good tool to showcase myself as an author and for some promotion. I don't post very much only when I have news to share. It's quite all right that I have family members who have friended me on Facebook, because they know this is for my writing and that is about all I post from my Facebook account. My writing, I keep it professional. That doesn't mean I won't post a "what am I doing" type of status, readers want to know more about me.

I didn't join twitter until about a month ago when I bought a smart phone. My account again is for my writing. Because I was twitter phobic, I started following people and reading what they tweeted to get a better understand of this form of social media.

I didn't think I'd like twitter, but I do. I'm learning more about other writers and the publishing industry than I thought I would. And I'm enjoying myself.

Yet, there are a few things that have turned me off and that has to do with what authors are posting. Here are a few things to think about before you post:

Never tweet or Facebook anything you don't want to be in the digital cloud forever

You're tweets and FB posts don't disappear they stay out there

Think before you tweet or FB post

Is this something you really want to say to 5,000 people or more who in turn tell everyone they know (especially if its negative).

If you can't say something nice don't say anything at all

Remember your followers on twitter and FB don't necessarily know the publishing world, they may complain about how your books are released, the prices, both print and e-books, etc. Be gracious and let them know you share their concerns but you have little control. Do not get upset at them for complaining to you, they have no other outlet. Offer to email them a more detailed explanation, but don't tell them that complaining to you as the author is the equivalent of complaining to the moon because it's full tonight.

Always remember you may have followers who will talk about what you tweeted or FB

One of the things I learned in my years in customer service is that an unhappy customer will tell 5 people they were unhappy, and then they will tell 5 people, and so on. A happy customer is more than likely to tell 10 people they are happy, and recommend your book or your facebook page or website or whatever.

As authors we are in the public's eye more than ever with social media. And as professionals we need to make sure we stay professional.

Welcome Sharon Hamilton

2011-07-08T06:16:00.000-07:00

Today my guest is Sharon Hamilton.

Here's a blurb:

Book I of The Guardians

Claire, an unconventional Guardian angel sent to save a sexy Brazilian-born painter from killing himself, discovers Daniel has been preyed upon by a powerful dark angel posing as his best friend and agent. Although successful at saving Daniel’s life, Claire is in danger of losing her own when attraction to her handsome charge blooms into a forbidden love.

The dark angel offers her what she’s only dared to dream about—an eternity with Daniel. Will she sacrifice her soul, or sacrifice a lifetime with a man she knows she was created to love?

Here's Sharon's Story about how she started writing the books:

Angels and the Heaven That Could Be

I was raised in a traditional family, or as traditional as a family could be in Northern California during the ‘50’s and ‘60’s. And yes, we had our fair share of quirky characters, as all families do. Laced in there were some serious hours doing service at our local church, mostly because that’s what my parents had done, how they had met, in the shadow of my grandfather, who was an evangelist.

Let me set you straight here, this isn’t about religion or much of anything in the way of values, other than as it relates to my characters. I’ve always said I’m a Christian with a bent antennae. I’ll explain.

I was given a unique view behind the curtain, to see whatwent on behind the production number that was the stage. And that’s where I think the real story is. I got to see the women, kids in tow, coming to my grandfather’s house in the middle of the night, after being beaten by a raging husband. Those things really do happen in the real world. I’d see them at breakfast the next day, and watch as my grandfather would hand out a free meal or a little money to people out of luck. He told me the “hobos”, as we used to call them, marked his fence so one that followed would know there was a kind person living there who might share a scrap of food. I once gave my favorite teddy bear to a little girl who was about 4 and clearly was afraid. I was afraid too. Afraid for her future. I often think of her little face, standing in my grandfather’s kitchen, barefoot, with syrup running down her chin.

What has always interested me is what makes people do the things they do. And what choices they make in life. I didn’t want to go into religious studies. I wanted to know what motivated them. So, in college I majored in Psychology.

Years later, after raising a family of my own and now beginning to see them have children, I still don’t really know what makes people do what they do. But I know how to write it down.

Angel is my first book, and it was the book that seized me one cold December day when I was visiting my daughter for her college graduation in Portland. We were snowed in that day, and the graduation (mid-year, smaller) was cancelled. And like the famous story of Mary Shelley, who wrote Frankenstein, we started talking about stories as we went around the room. I had been dreaming about angels, but not anything close to the angels I’d learned about in Sunday School. These were fully fleshed out beings with personalities, in a beautiful place with gardens and classrooms so they could learn about human life.

My blonde angel character was innocent, but drawn to the human world like a moth is drawn to a light fixture. The story developed that her attraction to all things human was what made her such an effective Guardian Angel. And she had a 100% track record, unlike anyone else.

I constructed a world around her and the possibility that she might fall in love so hard, that she wanted to give up her wings and become human. And so I explored what that would look like, how she would feel, and what the consequences would be.

The premise became: Heaven isn’t 100% perfect by design. The Underworld isn’t 100% evil by accident.

I began thinking that she would test the premise that all beings had free will, human as well as angelic. And I wanted her to push the boundaries. And not just push them, I wanted her to fall off the edge and watch her recover, if she could.

Thirty days later, in mid January, I had that first draft done. It was 92,000 words. I asked other writers I was becoming friends with if that was normal, and realized I am a prolific writer. Now that version has been re-written over 50 times now, vetted and critiqued on the contest circuit, where it did very well. It took a lot of people to help me wrestle with this behemoth first novel. But the end result is something that is near and dear to my heart. The premise and the ending remained the same.

I’m now on my 4^th book in the angel series.

You might ask me if I believe in the presence of a higher power. And I have to say, when I shut my eyes and tune out everything else, that someone else is there.

I hope you enjoy the journey I’ve taken. No, it probably won’t send you back to church.

If you'd like to buy Sharon's book here are the links:

Click here for Barnes & Noble

Click here for Amazon

Thanks for being my guest today Sharon.

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-04T01:00:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the Holiday

Happy Monday

2011-06-27T01:00:00.000-07:00

I know most people don't think of Monday's as happy, but for me they're the starting of a new week.

Monday's are my day to start fresh, it doesn't matter what I did or didn't do the week before I have a chance to start all over again and make progress.

So what's your favorite day of the week?

What do you think about Monday's.

Release Day - Quick Silver Ranch: Saddle Up

2011-06-24T01:00:00.000-07:00

Quick Silver Ranch is no Ordinary Dude Ranch

Welcome back to Quick Silver Ranch, book 2 - Saddle Up is Jared and Angie's story. They appear briefly in the first book Roped and Ready. Jared deserved his own book and who better than to be his nemesis but Angie.

Here's a blurb:

At loose ends after her best friend's wedding, Angie Davidson needs a vacation, so when the gorgeous yet aloof co-owner of the Quick Silver Ranch insists she stay to explore their sexual attraction, she agrees. Though she eagerly bows to his commanding touch in the bedroom, Jared's distant air after lovemaking sparks too many bad memories. Dare she yield to his sexy persuasion and prove he has nothing to fear or will he abandon her like everyone else in her life?

Eager to explore Angie’s vulnerable, submissive nature, Jared plans two weeks of toys and other naughty play. However, the last time he reached for a woman—mentally and physically—she rejected his dominant streak. Jared has no intention of letting Angie that close, no matter how sweetly she shivers beneath his hands.

Can two bruised hearts discover a way to make their tantalizing escape into the perfect way of life?

Here's an excerpt:

Angie drank in the feeling of his body against hers. His hardness to her softness, and part of her wanted to melt in a puddle at his feet, another part wanted to be bold and daring.

“Becca mentioned that you're closing down the ranch for a while.” Maybe a little flirting would work.

“Two weeks. There needs to be some renovations done, and the staff needs some downtime. It was a good time to do it with Tyler gone.”

“How much can be done in two weeks?” She thought back to when they were renovating the offices she now worked in, it seemed like it took months and with every little problem the workmen came to her.

“A lot, if you know how to motivate people.”

“Really?” Angie tilted her head up and fluttered her eyelashes. “And how would you do that?”

The corners of Jared's lips tilted up. “Lots of money.”

Okay, subtle flirting wasn't working with him. Her fingers trailed over his broad shoulder, to his neck, where she stroked his dark brown hair. His hand tightened on her lower back, bringing their hips together. And Angie swore she could feel his hard erection. Good, he wasn't immune to her.

She let her fingers skim from his neck, down over his shoulder blade, down his spine, over his well-defined ass, until she could rest her palm over his butt cheek. Then she squeezed it.

“Behave.” His breath brushed her ear and he swatted her ass.

“You hit me.” She couldn't believe it; he actually smacked her on the ass. Not that it hurt, but heat flowed through her body making her nipples grow harder. She’d never realized a little swat could make her so hot.

“I'll do worse if you don't behave yourself, Angie.”

“Promise?” The word was out of her mouth before she even realized it. The music ended, Jared escorted her back to the table and pulled out her chair.

His palms cupped her cheeks, tilting her face up to his. “We'll talk later.” He dropped a hard brief kiss on her lips before striding away.

Angie's heart skipped several beats while she observed Jared cross the room. She put her fingers to her lips and sank down onto the chair with her core pulsing with need and her panties wet. If he met her later, they wouldn't be talking if she had anything to say about it.

This was a fun book to write. I hope you enjoy it too.

To find out more or to buy click here

I'm So Excited

2011-06-20T01:00:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited.

My new book Quick Silver Ranch: Saddle Up releases on Friday. And I just found out about it today.

If you read Quick Silver Ranch: Roped & Ready this story has Jared, Tyler's business partner, and Angie, Becca's best friend with their own story.

Here's the blurb:

At loose ends after her best friend's wedding, Angie Davidson needs a vacation, so when the gorgeous yet aloof co-owner of the Quick Silver Ranch insists she stay to explore their sexual attraction, she agrees. Though she eagerly bows to his commanding touch in the bedroom, Jared's distant air after lovemaking sparks too many bad memories. Dare she yield to his sexy persuasion and prove he has nothing to fear or will he abandon her like everyone else in her life?Eager to explore Angie’s vulnerable, submissive nature, Jared plans two weeks of toys and other naughty play. However, the last time he reached for to a woman—mentally and physically—she rejected his dominant streak. Jared has no intention of letting Angie that close, no matter how sweetly she shivers beneath his hands. Can two bruised hearts discover a way to make their tantalizing escape into the perfect way of life?

Please join me on Friday as I have a release day party.

Being Professional

2011-06-13T05:50:00.000-07:00

This comes with being a business person. You need to be professional.

Over the weekend, I was reminded again of how some writers lack being professional.

It came up when a group of us were talking about reviews, and how we like to thank the reviewer for reading our books, even if the review is not a good one.

Some said they never respond to reviews, other say they do sometimes. I've been trying to respond to reviews only because I think of it as a professional courtesy, like thank yous to judges in a contest.

Then someone pointed out how not to respond to a bad review and gave us a link. I went an read what this writer had done.

Let me say, is this writer certainly burned her bridges to not only publishing, but to even trying to sell a book. She took the review to task for saying her book was riddled with spelling and grammatical errors, and that the reviewer downloaded the wrong copy of the book, not the newer version.

This was a self-published book. The reviewer replied back telling the writer, that the reviewer stands by the review, in which the reviewer said it was a good book with a good plot, but difficult to read due to the typo's and grammatical errors. And even gave the version and date they downloaded the book.

The author came back defending herself, and called the reviewer a liar that the reviewer couldn't have possibly download the correct book. The others began to get into the act. Especially because the author said to the reviewer "You can't click through the book to the end, so you obviously haven't read it."

Several pointed out on a Kindle you do click to the end (just about every e-reader you either touch the screen or a button to go to the next page), and they too had read this writers book and agree with the reviewer.

This went on with the author continually coming back telling people they were out of their minds, posting reviews from Amazon, claiming everyone was out of their mind. More comments made by readers, all civil and pointing out the flaws in the authors replies, the author finally just posted an expletive.

Right there I stopped reading and said to myself "this author just ruined her career."

In the writing business, word gets out very quickly if you're not professional. With the Internet editors and agents can search on an author's name to see who they are, where they've posted, etc.

My Mom always said "If you can't say something nice don't say anything at all." Holds true. To be a professional writer means being able to take criticism, to see reviews you don't agree with and to know that not everyone is going to love or even like your book.

As a professional writer, I live with that.

Have a great week.

Guest Blogger: Randi Alexander

2011-06-06T01:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I'm very please to have Randi Alexander as my guest blogger she will talk about herself and her new release Chase and Seduction.

Welcome Randi!!

Tell us a little about yourself:

Hi Marie, thank you so much for hosting me today. I've been writing romance for ab

out four years, and in the last year, I've fallen in love with erotic romance. Especially, cowboys. Even though I'm a city girl, I have wild fantasies about men in Stetsons and boots, and I use these daydreams to create characters and plots for my books. My first book, Chase and Seduction was released May 27 from The Wild Rose Press' Cowboy Kink line.

What do like the most and the least about writing?

I love being able to find a story in my own mind, create plot twists and character quirks, and write really hot love scenes. I like to dream up a story a

nd just let it flow onto the paper (well, laptop, actually.) And it's so much fun to go back to a story after a month or two, and say, "Did I write that? Wow!" Sometimes I surprise myself.

The only thing I don't like is that, for a writer, there is no end to what can be done. There are always blogs to frequent or write, marketing to do, Facebooking to catch up on, and the ever-present blank screen that needs filling. But it's important to take a

break, connect with family and friends, exercise, go outside, have fun. And even more important to not feel guilty about not being at your computer!

Give us a peek into your latest published work?

Country music superstar/actor Chase Tanner has yet to be denied anything–and he’s never wanted anything or anyone more than gorgeous screenplay writer Reno Linden. So when the film they are working on is finally finished, Chase decid

es to turn up the volume on seducing Reno.

Reno Linden lived a quiet, rural life until she was thrust into the Hollywood scene when her book was adapted to film. Chase Tanner is larger than life, sinfully sexy and hell-bent on getting her into bed. Skittish after a failed wedding engagement, Reno risks the plunge into Chase’s arms, and is surprised that her good girl self can keep up with bad boy Chase.

Though Chase returns to his cowboy roots often, and Reno cherishes the time spent with him on his ranch, the two find their careers pulling them in d

ifferent directions. Will their attraction survive the glitz and stress of fame?

What’s next on the writing horizon for you?

My cowgirl romance novella, One Tast of You, has finaled in the Passionate Ink’s Stroke of Midnight Contest. The winner will be announced at the Passionate Ink Party at the Romance Writers of America’s National Conference in New York City on J

une 29. Wish me luck! (Congratulations Randi)

I'm working on an outline for another book for the Cowboy Kink line, about a bull rider and a nanny. Two rather opposite occupations, requiring very different personalities.

Is there anything you want to tell readers?

To celebrate the release of Chase and Seduction, I'm giving away, to one lucky *commenter, an e-copy of my novella Her Cowboy Stud. Just leave

a comment today and we'll choose a winner tomorrow. *Commenter must be 18 years of age or older to win.

I'm also giving away a cowgirl hat to one subscriber to my newsletter. For more details, and to sign up for this contest, please go to my website, RandiAlexander.com And while you're there, you can read the first chapter of Chase and Seduction.

Excerpt of Chase and Seduction:

Chase grabbed Reno’s arm and rushed her out of the building. As the door closed behind him, he said, “I get damn uncomfortable when women cry.”

Reno kept her head down and wiped the tears from her cheeks.

He stopped and bent to look at her face. “Aw, not you, too!”

She giggled. “It was just so touching.”

“Baby, you’re a sensitive soul.”

“Me?” She smiled. “I’m sensitive? You’re the one who did all this.” She gestured to the bar. “Singing and giving the hat off your head to people you don’t know—”

He shook his head and started walking. “It’s the least I could do. It was nothing.”

She jogged to catch up. Was he embarrassed to be caught doing something nice? He did a lot for others. She read a story about him, way back when they were casting the movie, that talked about the domestic shelters Chase sponsored. Hundreds of them in cities across the US, in honor of his mother. Lacing her fingers into his, she said, “I was proud to be with you tonight.”

He ran his hand through his hair and looked at her. “I’m glad you came with. People treat me different mostly, and it gets old.”

“Lonely.”

He unlaced their fingers and put his arm around her. “Yeah.” Helping her into the truck, he kissed her fingers. “But not anymore.” Their gazes fused, and Reno felt her chest expanding, as if her soul linked with his.

As he closed the door and walked around the hood, she whispered, “And never again, Chase."

Buy Chase and Seduction at The Wild Rose Press Wilder Roses

Good luck, and thank you!

Randi

RandiAlexander.com

WildAndWickedCowboysBlog

Memorial Day

2011-05-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

In honor of Memorial day, I would like to remember all our fallen warriors and those who still fight for freedom, no matter where they are.

A bit of trivia for everyone, the Indianapolis 500 has been held in conjunction with Memorial Day 1911.

Enjoy the weekend.

Guest Blogger: Jill James

2011-05-23T01:00:00.000-07:00

Today I'm happy to have guest blogger Jill James.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I haven’t always wanted to be a writer. I’ve wanted to be an astronaut, a brain surgeon, and a lawyer. But since I love to read so much I thought I would like to write. I did the angsty poetry as a teenager thing, then I tried to write some romance in my 20’s. I didn’t really get serious about my writing until 2004. The children were older then, so I could devote some time to me to find out if I had a writer inside me. My debut novel, Tempting Adam was my second complete manuscript. The first one will remain under the bed with the dust bunnies forever.

What do you like the most and the least about writing?

I love coming to work in my pajamas if I want to. I like getting the voices out of my head and onto the paper. I like seeing the sentences become paragraphs become pages until a story is born. I don’t like the loneliness sometimes. It is great to meet other writers and to connect with them.

Give us a peek into your latest published work?

Tempting Adam

They both want the same thing – St. Eden Studios.

Corporate raider Yvette Giardino intends to bring St. Eden Studios to its knees. It’s a job. One her grandmother’s health depends on. That Adam St. Eden will suffer isn’t personal. Until he awakens her sympathy and stirs her body in ways she can’t explain.

Adam wants one thing and one thing only – to protect the dream his grandfather began. But when the board demands he work with stunning Yvette, a woman he’d mistakenly indulged with in a little after-hours play, his world turns upside down. Missed meetings, unhappy clients, and nights of intense pleasure – he can blame one person. Yvette.

With his corporation crumbling around him, can Adam rise above the fallout and see his sexy temptress for what she really is – a victim of manipulation and a woman who desperately needs his love?

What’s next on the writing horizon for you?

I’m working on a paranormal romance with shape shifters, a sequel to Tempting Adam, and a short story with a divorced couple trying to find their way back together.

Is there anything you want to tell readers?

Yes, we love to hear from you. Let us know how we are doing. Twitter and Facebook connect with us, leave reviews to let us know if you liked our books and even when you don’t. We need feedback to know we are connecting.

Here's an excerpt of Tempting Adam:

Yvette pulled herself together with a jolt.

It’s a job. It’s a job.

She repeated the mantra in her head in an endless loop, gazing into deep, blue eyes. This close, she noticed the subtle lines near his eyes from his outdoor living. If he had grown up in Hollywood, he would have had a facelift or two by now, instead of the natural look he pulled off quite well.

Adam helped her rise, his warm hand cupping her elbow. A tingle shot from her arm, to her chest, and to regions much farther south. A sexual moan almost escaped her lips. Yvette shook her head to clear the mental images of her and him and the hotel room. It didn’t help. Memories of that night still had the power to stir her senses. They hit Yvette in a place she didn’t think existed—her emotions.

His eyes darkened to indigo, and he leaned nearer. His fresh, evergreen scent enveloped her.

Her head swam, and she tilted on the heels of her shoes. She berated herself for her juvenile behavior, unable to believe the She-shark of business might have met her match. At least in the sexual arena.

Adam wrapped an arm around her shoulders, led her to the bench outside the door, and sat beside her. “I hope you’re doing okay. I would’ve found you a seat inside, but they were getting back to work. I didn’t want anything else to delay the work schedule.”

Disbelief flooded Yvette while she replayed what had just happened. She needed to get a grip on herself and this job. Adam was nice enough overall, and was great—make that fantastic—in bed.

However, he was no ruthless businessman and knew next to nothing about Hollywood. He wasn’t the first CEO she’d taken down, and he wouldn’t be the last.

It wasn’t personal.

Thanks for being my guest Jill, and Tempting Adam sounds absolutely delicious.

Guest Blogger: Laura Kaye

2011-05-16T01:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I have guest blogger Laura Kaye

Tell us a little about yourself.

Sure, and thanks for having me here! I write paranormal, contemporary and erotic romance (genre-hopper, here!) and have books coming out in all three over the coming months. I live in Maryland right on the Chesapeake Bay, and really enjoy gazing out over the water. I’ve been married for

15 years come this October and have two daughters, ages 7 and almost 5, and one bad dog.

What do like the most and the least about writing?

I love the creativity of it and how, every time I sit down to the computer, something new happens. I love those moments in your story when something totally unexpected happens with your characters or plot. And,

I especially love writing “Th

e End” on the last page

of a draft—it’s completely thrilling! Not to mention, what’s more satisfying than hearing people’s response to your writing? Granted, the negative reviews can be hard to hear, but more often than not people respond with enthusiasm and excitement, and it’s like eating the finest chocolate! LOL I probably least like that I don’t have as much time to devote to writing as I’d like. Oh, and I hate writing synopses! *grimaces*

Give us a peek into your latest published work?

My heart may not beat, but that doesn’t mean it’s not broken.

After an isolated century mourning the murder of my long-ago family, I crave the irresistible scents of joy and love that radiate from my new neighbors, a single mother and her young daughter. I’m starved for their blood, and for the healing respite from my ancient grief that will accompany drinking down their life-giving emotions. Now to lure them in.

But they surprise me. Little Olivia accepts me without fear or reservation—talking, smiling, offering innocent affection that tugs at my long-lost humanity. Her mother, Samantha, seeks me out when she should stay away, offering sweet f

riendship, and calling to

the forgotten man in me. They lure me in.

Aw, Dio, Lucien, run and spare them while you can…

What’s next on the writing horizon for you?

The first thing I have to do is revise the women’s fiction manuscript I completed in January. It needed some time to simmer, and now I’m really excited to come back to it! The next new thing I’ll be writing is book two in the fantasy romance series based on the Greek Anemoi (directional wind gods associated with the seasons) I just sold to Entangled Publishing. Book one, North of Need, comes out November 2011.

Is there anything you want to tell readers?

Just, thank you, thank you to everyone who buys, reads, reviews! To me, books are a partnership between authors and readers, so I have mad love for readers!

Excerpt from Forever Freed:

She stepped forward again and stood just at my knees.

I watched her movements with wonder and need. The atmosphere between us thickened and sparked. Samantha looked up at me shyly, but with clear purpose.

“Lucien?

”

“Hmm?” I gripped the edge of the table lest I reach out and pull her flush against my body.

She leaned in further and placed her fingertips on my kn

ees. Electrical impulses ripped up my thighs and settled into the thick organ between my legs.

“Kiss me?”

My breath caught in my throat. My original plan for her made it blasphemous for me to consider accepting her affection. But I wanted it desperately. Wanted her.

We leaned towards one another. I strained to be vigilant in my control. I met her lips tenderly, not wanting to take more risk than I already was. But then she took another step forward and fit herself tight between my legs. She moved her hands to my shoulders. Her heart hammered between our chests.

I needed to be careful, but I had to hold her. I released the table’s edge and wound my hands around her, tangling one in the soft, fine hair behind her head and snaking the other around her narrow waist. Her life thrummed in my arms. I had gone so long without affectionate touch that this felt beyond miraculous. It was simply irresistible.

I was so hungry for her, but not for her blood. I deepened the kiss and stroked my tongue

with need and want against hers. Exploring her mouth with abandon, I groaned at the sweetness of her taste and thrilled at being inside of her.

Oh,

dolcezza. The taste of her joy, her vivacious personality, the way she loved Ollie, her acceptance of me—everything about her bespoke her sweetness. Her heat seared me. I pulled her in tighter and relished the throb of her pulse against my skin.

She moaned. Her hands found my hair, stroking, pulling, fisting. Had my eyes been open they would have rolled back into my head. Hot feelings of ecstasy roared out of her and into me, and I groaned as I struggled to keep my fangs from stretching out. I pursued her touch, her kiss, again and again. She returned what I gave her with equal fervor.

Minutes passed before she finally pulled away. I released her reluctantly and smiled when she bit her lower lip and grinned up at me. I tasted her happiness and her exhilaration,

but some of what I was feeling was my own. And that was a miracle.

Find Laura on the interwebz:

Website: http://www.LauraKayeAuthor.com

Blog: http://laurakayeauthor.blogspot.com

Faceboo

k: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/laurakayeauthor

Twitter: @laurakayeauth

Publisher Website: http://thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=800

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3703867

Laura’s Book Trailers for Hearts in Darkness and Forever Freed: http://www.youtube.com/user/LauraKayeAuthor?feature=mhum

Laura also shared her trading cards:

Galleys Have Arrived

2011-05-09T01:00:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend my editor at The Wild Rose Press sent me the galleys for my newest book, Quick Silver Ranch: Saddle Up

For those of you who have been waiting for Jared's story, you'll have it soon. Once I send the galleys back and they're approved I'll have a release date and I'll share it with everyone.

I'm going to be busy this month, with galleys, finishing up the next book for my editor and working a new project.

Have a great week.

E-Publishing

2011-05-02T01:00:00.000-07:00

Lately there's been a lot of talk about e-publishing and self-publishing. I know nothing about self-publishing so I'm not going to address that. I do know something about e-publishing and thought that I would do a blog post on it.

Disclaimer: I do not know everything there is to know about e-publishing or how the buisness works. What is in this blog post is only my opinion and based on my experiences.

1. Do you're homework

§ What does this mean, it means checking the publisher out to the best of your ability

o Do they have a web site?

§ All e-publishers should have a professional looking website, with information not only about the books they offer, but their submission guidelines, about the company (who is running it) and it should be free of typos and other mistakes

§ How long have they been in business?

§ Are those running the e-publishing company, do they have a business background or are they writers themselves?

· There is nothing wrong if they are writers or other publsihing individuals, my take on e-publishing is you better know how to run a business. Many may argue writers do run a business, and I'm not arguing with that, but that's a business of one, not a business of 10-20 people. I feel the publisher should have business knowleged of how to run a business and have the business background vs. a writing background

o Talk to friends and/or other authors

§ Do you know someone who has published with this e-publisher or has submitted to them. Ask them how they felt about the submission process, or are they happy with the company.

o Buy a few books from the e-publisher

§ Buy a several books from the e-publisher in the line you're targeting, if you want to sell a contemporary romance to them, then buy a few of the ones they're offering.

§ Take note of when the book was published

§ The editing of the book

§ Subject matter: plot, conflict, characters

· Note: When looking at the editing of the book, take note of the date of publication. If this book was one of the first published, there maybe some editing mistakes. I've have found this, but as time goes on the editing as well as the quality of the books improve.

2. Okay, you've done all your homework and this looks like the e-publisher for you.

§ Follow their submission guidelines

§ Make note of how long they say it will take for them to respond to you

§ Follow up when/if necessary

3. Contracts, Royalities, Promotion

· Contracts

o Contracts can be a tricky thing. If you can find out the royaity rate before you're offered a contract that is great. Some e-publishers list it right on their websites others do not.

§ Very low end offer is 20% and at the high end 45%, there is nothing wrong with either, it has to be your decision on what you're willing to take. Note: if your dealing with some of the NY houses your e-book royality rate can be very low, make the decision that is best for you and you may not be able to change it

o Watch for reversion rights and first right of refusal or option clause:

§ I've seen reversion rights from 1 year to life of the copyright make sure you understand what your reversion rights are and you're willing to let your work be with the publisher for that period of time

§ First right of refusal or option clauses – this is where the publisher has the right to…this can depend on the publisher, some the first right of refusal or option clause says they have the first right of refusal on the next book you write with these characters or any character that appear in the book, others say they have the first right of refusal on any book you write.

· Please read this very carefully because if you sign a contract that says "X publisher has first right of refusal on any book you write." You are now tied up with that publisher for life. They have the right of first refusal on any book you write not matter what it is.

· Limit the clause as much as you can, if you have to have one in the contract to such as:

o First right of refusal on any book with these same characters or of the secondary characters

o First right of refusal on next contemporary romance under 40,000 words

4. Promotion

· Most publishers now rely on authors to do their own promotions, there is no different between NY and e-publishers on this, at minimum:

o Author website

· You'll hear stories about how the publishers are asking more and more from their authors in promotion, and this is true. But we are in a digital world with more and more social networking. Because brick and mortar stores are disappearing at a rapid rate you have to think outside the box. I'm not big on promotion myself, I find it very intemidating, but if you can thinking about having the following:

o Author website – a must for readers to find you and your books

o Blog – be it with a group or alone, group blogs are fun because you don't have to post every day

o Facebook – I don't know how effective it is, but I do have an author page on facebook along with a regular facebook page. I only post when it's important, I don't do daily posts

o Goodreads, Library Thing, etc: These are all booksites and they can be good for connecting with readers

o Ads – depending on the publisher you maybe able to get into what's called co-op ads. This is where authors split the cost of an ad. But if your publisher doesn't have this don't stress and don't spend tons of money for one.

· The best promotion advice I ever received was:

o Look at what you have time to do and what you don't. Do what you have time to do. This is so true, I try really hard to keep up with everything, but there are not enough hours in the day, because I have a full-time day job.

5. Becoming PAN with Romance Writers of America (RWA)

o For those of you who don't know Romance Writers of America has a group of author who belong to PAN – Published Author Network. To qualify for PAN you must either have received a $1,000 advance from the publisher on one book or made $1,000 worth of sales on one book in one year.

o Many believe this is a critial step in their career. I don't. PAN isn't the end-all-be-all for me. I want to write books, I want people to read my books, I want to sell my books. While I would love to sell enough of one book to make that $1,000 threshold, it doesn't mean I'm not successful without it.

o This is a decision you need to make as an author

6. Look at your goals and expectations in relation to your career

· Your goals and expectations are not going to be the same as mine are or as your writing friends are. A romance writer will have different expectations and goals than a Mystery writer, or a science fiction writer.

· Evaulate what you want not what you're friends are doing or what they want for you

o When I decided to submit to an e-publisher I did it because I knew I needed to do more for my career. I researched them and found one that I felt worked for me and submitted. Did I want to sell books? Yes. Did I want to earn money? Oh yes. Did I think I was going to earn enough to quit the day job? No.

o I looked at where I wanted to go in my career and what my 5 year business plan was and evulated what I could do

E-publishing is not for everyone. There are still who are bias against e-publishers and e-books, and that's okay. The world is changing, the digital world especially. Many print publishers are playing catch up in this digital world.

I still love holding a print book in my hands, but that hasn't stopped me from buying a digital e-book reader or buying e-books. I enjoy both and probably always will.

No matter what you decide to do, do what is best in your opinion and based on your career goals.

Time to Get Back to Writing

2011-04-25T04:00:00.000-07:00

I've had a wonderful 10 days off, my sister came to visit and we had a great time together. But now it's time for me to get back to writing and the day job.

This week The Wild Rose Press is celebrating 5 years of romance. So you your not part of the loops please sign up. We're giving away tons of prizes.

For the regular loop of The Wild Rose Press: www.groups.yahoo.com/group/thewildrosepress

For The Wilder Roses: www.groups.yahoo.com/group/thewilderroses

I will be on the loops as much as I can this week, but especially on the Wilder Roses loop. So stop by and visit all of us, we're going to celebrate this week.