"Fall Under My Spell" Tabitha Shay's Romance Blog

Today's Special Guest, Author Xavier Axelson

2012-01-24T05:03:00.000-08:00

Hi Readers,
Please make welcome, author, Xavier Axelson. Leave a comment so he'll know you dropped by. I must apologize to my guest. For some weird reason this morning, my computer has some kind of hiccup and it will not attach the author's picture or his book cover, but I have the blurb to his new release and a great excerpt. Enjoy!

Good Morning Readers,
First, let me say "Thank You," to Tabitha for having me for her guest today.
While I was thinking about what I would write about for this blog post I began to realize I have written a lot about wolves (were and regular) in my work.
Why? I asked myself.
I don’t necessarily have a werewolf fascination, but do feel wolves are unfairly prejudiced against because of exaggerated, and often fictionalized accounts of their behaviors. I am a wolf supporter, but never saw myself as a writer with a wolfish bend in my creative flow.
Or, do I?
Lily is based in reality. Sort of. I remember reading a news story about a little girl who was snatched from her backyard and dragged into the woods by a coyote; fear not, she was returned to her family alive and well. I found myself wondering; how does a parent deal with such a horrific act? I can’t even begin to understand the things that must go through a parents mind knowing their kid has been dragged into the woods by a big bad wolf…or coyote. All I can think is horror, sheer and utter horror. Oddly, just yesterday I read an article about a little girl who was swallowed whole by an alligator while her father stood by unable to do anything to save her. Or, did you read the article about the girl who was eaten alive by a bear and called her mother several times while it was happening? HORRIBLE. All of these stories haunt me. Now, are animals attacking with horror movie aspirations? I doubt it. It seems in most cases we have somehow encroached or pushed ourselves into the habitat of wild animals and, being they are wild, they do what animals do. This does not mean I do not bleed for parents or children who have suffered these attacks. Writing Lily was my way of somehow managing to get my head around such a terrible act, but also to explore what a parent must have to endure in the wake of such an event.
You will forever be, as in Lily’s father’s case, “the man whose kid got eaten by a wolf.”
His grief is only what I can imagine, his anger; only what I can assume. Lily also started out as a Father’s Day story. It is a celebration of a father’s strength and courage in not only losing his daughter but regaining her and then having to make another, even more painful decision later. One reader said the story is mainly about Pryor’s grief and I agree, sort of. I think it is about nature and the pall we can live under when something extraordinary happens to us.
I recently interviewed Heather Donahue, the star of The Blair Witch Project and what I found most interesting was how she still struggles to not only be identified as “the girl from The Blair Witch Project.” Do we have the capacity to see beyond the obvious? Be it fame, a one time incident, or are we marked forever? Is there room for reinvention? Moving on? I interviewed her specifically because I believe we are absolutely capable of MORE and seeing past the obvious. I am hopeful.

BLURB: LILY by Xavier Axelson:

When Pryor's daughter Lily is taken by a wolf, Pryor is convinced she has turned into the creature he sees lurking in his woods. He swears she promises to return to him. But is it his despair and desperation making him see things or is there something more lurking in the shadows of the forest? When he meets Ned, a silversmith who helps him with a plan to bring his daughter back into his life, he begins to live again. But can his newfound love help ease the horror that may be waiting? What if the ultimate horror isn’t when Lily was taken but it’s when Lily returns and he realizes his nightmare has only just begun...

EXCERPT:

LILY

I am Lily's father, my name is Pryor. It was a year ago last Father's Day when she was taken from me. I still believe being Lily's father is the most important thing in this world.

Unfortunately, my daughter dwells in another world.
* * * * *

I glanced at the necklace. Ned's pressed close to me, but the necklace I hoped would bring Lily back to me felt closer. Ned was soft in his sleep; not the bull of a man he was when he's awake. I loved him soft and I loved him hard. It was his hardness that grounded me, that brought me in from the darkness. The necklace caught the light of the fading moon and I wondered where Lily was tonight.

The old clock on the nightstand hummed quietly; its vintage florescent glow a pale mockery of the necklace that lay beside it and yet I heard the clock, it won in that department. Time always does.

Ned moved against me, I could feel his arms pull me close, felt the bulge of his muscles, his arms thick and powerful. He had never loved a man before me. I had only loved Lily. Once she changed, I had little left to love; in fact, I was certain love had disappeared from my life all together.

The clock still hummed, never quiet; it's old and made noise as if time itself wanted us all to know that it was passing and with each minute Lily fell farther and farther into the darkness. The tears came then and at the same time Ned's cock pushed more firmly against my back. He grumbled, pulled me even tighter so that I could truly feel his penis--not hard, not entirely soft--on the edge of wanting. A tear fell and I gasped a little. Seeing the necklace; hearing the clock, feeling Ned's cock, his muscles, I fell away into him and closed my eyes.

"Why aren't you sleeping?"

"I was," I replied softly.

"No you weren't," his voice was sleepy; distant and yet he knew things, he knew I was awake, thinking about my lost daughter.

"It's Father's Day," I answered, skipping over my lie. "Do you think she will come?" I felt him nod and nodded in return against my pillow. Another tear fell.

"Come closer," he whispered.

"How much closer could I get?"

"Closer," he said again, a growl, a grunt; there was the bull I knew.

His lips brushed on my neck, a hand on my thigh stroking, touching, pulling a sigh from my mouth. I wiped a hand across my face.

"I never get sick of touching you," he whispered wetly, his tongue tracing my ear.

Smiling, I turned in his big arms and I could feel my thoughts ease. Ned had that way about him. 'Magic arms' I called him because he had this way of holding me that made me feel completely safe and for one man to be able to do that for another was amazing.

I kissed him and was happy to discover his breath was not bad but sweet, the trace of his toothpaste before bed still there and I smiled even as I kissed him. Ned sighed gently, his cock fully hard now, urgent, pressing. I reached down and stroked him through his boxers; he was already wet. I tried to pull my tongue from his mouth but he only pulled me closer, deeper; at one point I was almost certain one of us was going to stop breathing.

He finally relented but only because I jokingly squeezed his balls a little too tightly.

"Fuck, you make me nuts," he grumbled, we both laughed at his joke.

His hand reached for my cock; I slept naked so there was no flimsy cotton between his rough hands and my skin.

"You like that?"

I nodded, I did like it, I'd thought I wouldn't ever be able to like sex again, or any intimacy after Lily disappeared.

His hands were rough but I relished his edges; he touched me as if he knew me and, after a year, I guess he kind of did.

"You want me to suck it?" His voice was hoarse with his question; there was still a shy embarrassment behind it, as if he couldn't really believe he was going to suck cock.

"What do you think?"

My response excited him. I could see it in his eyes, even in the dark; the fading moon told me just enough.

When you had a daughter like mine, you learned a lot from the moon.

Where to find Xavier Axelson:

http://www.facebook.com/xaviersaxel

http://www.twitter.com/xaviersaxel

http://www.examiner.com/la-in-los-angeles/francis-xavier

http://www.xavieraxelson.com

Today's Very Special Guest, Romance Author, Ginger Simpson!

2012-01-20T04:05:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Readers,

Please make welcome, the amazing, Miz Ginger Simpson. Ginger's a very special friend of mine and I am so honored to have her for my guest today. This is one busy woman. Not only is she a wife, mother, grandmother, but a prolific author, and has a fantastic blog, Ginger's, Dishin' It Out! No one should miss this lady's blogging. Please leave a comment for the lady who taught me so much about writing!

ARGHHHH! Rules, schmules. I'm so sick of trying to figure out what's right and what's wrong in writing fiction. You know, you can carry this rule thing too far and totally change your voice and writing style. What's even worse is when you belong to a critique group and constantly get conflicting opinions. Who do you trust?

Actually, I trust everyone. Each person has an individual talent and style, and perhaps write in a way totally different than mine. Isn't that what we want? Variety is the spice of life, so I've been told, but when it comes to mainstream or finding an agent, it almost seems like we're expected to fit our stories into the same confining box as all the rest of the authors.

I've been a "serious writer" since 2000, and almost weekly, I feel like someone throws a new rule into the mix. Now, I'm supposed to limit the times I use "it". Rather than making the reader guess what "it" is, use a hard noun. Okay...I see the logic, but there are just some instances where "it" works.

And of course, the "was" is passive rule. Try to eliminate using using "was" as much as possible, and definitely not with a gerund. Well, I like gerunds and I refuse to eliminate them. I will minimize using "was" if I can think of something else, but I'm not going to burn brains cells over something so trivial. (I lied...can you smell the smoke?) I was so paranoid over passive voice after one editing session, that I changed anything that sounded the least bit passive, and the writing became so stilted and stiff, the story sounded ridiculous. We have to leave room for author style. And do readers really count how many "it" and "was" instances are in each chapter? I doubt it.

The newest, and something that makes most sense to me is avoiding phrases that tell the reader who is doing the seeing, hearing, feeling, sensing, when that's already been established by the POV from which the story is being told. If we're in Jane's POV, the reader assumes Jane has control of the story in that instance. Rather than saying Jane watched, or Jane listened, just using sentences such as, The bird on the branch outside the window twittered a melodious song, complimenting the sunrise. If we're in Jane's POV, we can be sure she hears it. :) It's amazing how many words you can cut from your story or scenes if you avoid the obvious. I think this falls under the old RUE (Resist The Urge to Explain) rule.

Not to knock those who write medical romance, but a few years back, I reviewed HQ Medical Romance for one site, and the books eventually became so predicable, I felt as though I was playing "insert a new name here and locale here." You can't blame the authors. They have forced to follow guidelines of what ALL readers supposedly want.

Hey, I may write, but I read too, and I'm tired of the same "cake-mix" plots. Add a new character and stir the pot. You can add a few more nuts or some food coloring, but you still come out with a cake. I'm thrilled with e-publishers who allow authors to think outside the box. Don't ban adultery because it might offend the sensibility of snobbish people who refuse to see the percentage of our population who engage in affairs. Realize that sometimes, even mistakes can be a learning experience that bring a hero and heroine back together.

While some people are making New Year's resolutions and setting their goals, I'm trying to fit more more rule into the continuing roster of do and don't do in my head. I need a shoehorn.

How about sharing some rules here that have you confused.

In the meantime, let's see if I've avoided most of these ghoulish rules in my 2011 release, First Degree Innocence. Here's a blurb, followed by excerpt from a scene where Carrie is getting to know her new cellmate Susanna, a bit better:

Carrie Lang’s sheltered life ends with a prison sentence and lands her smack dab in the middle of an evil retribution plan concocted by the prison bully against another inmate. Arrested on the one day she calls in sick, Carrie has no one to verify her story. A supposed eye-witness describes her down to the make and model of her car. Her ten-year sentence seems mild compared to being threatened with death for being an unwilling participant in an outlandish scheme. Can she find a way out of her horrible nightmare, or are the cold gray prison walls her destiny?

Scene from Chapter Three:

Carrie finished making her bed and crawled onto it. She hung her head over the side, peering in at Susanna, buried in the darkness of her own little cavern. “You seem to know all the quirks in this place. If you don’t mind me asking, how long have you been here?”

Susanna ran her hands through her hair. “Seems like I’ve been here forever, but it’s only been three years. You might say I was at the wrong place at the wrong time. I made the mistake of hooking up with a guy who had a drug problem.”

“That’s too bad. I can’t imagine doing drugs. I don’t even like to take an aspirin.”

“He didn’t just do them.” Susanna chuckled. “He sold them.”

Carrie flinched at her cellmate’s casual attitude. “Did you know—?”

“Of course I knew,” Susanna snapped. “It just didn’t matter to me. I thought he was the love of my life. But when the cops raided our apartment, he so gallantly pointed the finger at me and said I was the one dealing.” Bitterness accented her every word.

“That just sucks. Couldn’t you prove differently?”

Susanna rolled her eyes. “It didn’t matter. I was an accessory and, as far as the judge was concerned, as guilty as Doug. I only wish I could forget the look on his face when I testified against him.” She released a long exhalation. “Can you believe I still cared about him after what he did?”

“It appears we both got screwed. I still can’t believe I’m in prison.” The blood rushing to her hanging head made Carrie dizzy. She sat up, plumped her laundry bag, then curled into a fetal position and settled onto the mesh pillow.

“What did you do to attract the long arm of the law?” Susanna’s voice drifted from below.

Carrie sighed. “Maybe you’ll be the one person who believes it wasn’t me driving the getaway car.”

“I took the day off from work because I had horrible cramps.” The fateful day replayed itself in her mind as she told the story one more time. “Dr. Phil had just come on TV and I was minding my own business, curled up on the couch with a heating pad. All of a sudden someone pounded on the door, and when I answered, a guy in a suit standing in front of two uniformed officers, shoved a piece of paper in my face and stormed inside. It was a warrant for my arrest.” She took a deep breath. “I didn’t even have a chance to change my tampon before they handcuffed me then made me sit and watch while they tore up my apartment, looking for the stolen bank money. I hadn’t a clue what they were talking about.”

“So then what happened?” Susanna pressed.

“Of course they didn’t find any cash because there wasn’t any, at least other than the few measly bucks in my purse. I couldn’t make them believe I had nothing to do with robbing a bank.”

“How come they thought it was you?”

“To make a long, sad story short, I live alone and had no one to swear to my whereabouts. The only thing my boss was able to tell them was that I called in sick. A supposed eye witness reported a description matching mine and, unfortunately for me, a car identical to the one I drive. Bank security footage had a foggy image of a woman behind the wheel, and I couldn’t convince them it wasn’t me.” The old frustration welled Carrie’s eyes with tears. She wiped them on her sleeve.

Susanna appeared at eye level. “Shit! That must have been horrible for you.”

“You have no idea. Sitting in that courtroom and listening to the state’s attorney convince twelve people who didn’t know me from Adam that I was a felon… It was the most frustrating thing I’ve ever been through. Knowing my innocence, I never in a million years thought they would believe him… at least I prayed they wouldn’t.”

“Was your car traced to the scene?”

“No. I told you I was at home. My car was parked right in front of my apartment all day, and I’m the only one who has a key. If anybody from the building noticed, they refused to get involved. The man who testified against me only remembered the first letter of the license. Of course it had to be the same as mine. But how many friggin’ cars have M on their plate? You see why I thought I would never get convicted on such flimsy evidence?”

“You must have hired a pretty crummy lawyer to end up here for such a petty charge.” Susanna made a clucking noise with her tongue.

“It might have been a petty charge if a bank guard hadn’t lost his life in the process. And as to my attorney…I didn’t have the money, so the court appointed one. I would have fared just as well on my own. It took every penny I had in savings to bail myself out of jail between the time I was arrested and tried.”

“Couldn’t someone have helped you?”

“Who? I don’t have anyone. I haven’t lived here long enough to make friends, other than the people I work with on a daily basis. But I swear to you, Susanna, on my mother’s grave, I really am innocent.”

Before Susanna could ask any more questions, an unfamiliar guard appeared at the cell door. “Okay, ladies, time for rec.” The thin, red-headed woman glanced at her wristwatch. “Enjoy your two hours.” The sentiment was friendly but her tone wasn’t.

Her key clicked the lock and she swung the door wide. “Show your new friend to our playroom.” She sneered at Susanna.

Carrie was about to pass on the outing when Susanna gestured. “C’mon. It’ll do you good to get some fresh air.”

That did sound inviting. Clambering down from the bunk, Carrie stepped into her shoes and followed closely behind. When she caught up with Susanna in the hall, she tapped her on the shoulder. “What about that… that…Jet person?” she whispered.

Susanna patted her hand. “You’re with me. Her MO is to divide and conquer, so stay close like I warned you. You’ll be fine.”

The freckled-faced guard unlocked the recreation room door and let them inside. The place was large with vaulted ceilings, a shiny cement floor and tables lining three cinderblock walls. The smell of Pinesol hung heavy in the air. Nearby, a pair played dominos, while across the room a foursome played cards. At the far end, a row of lounge chairs held inmates engaged in reading. A cart filled with books sat nearby. Six more identical seats held orange-clad prisoners engrossed in a familiar soap opera, but immediately all eyes focused on Carrie. It was like being back on the witness stand. Their curiosity satisfied, the inmates went back to what they were doing.

She took a deep, calming breath until she heard the distinct click of the door lock.

If you'd like to read more, First Degree Innocence, published by Books We Love is available on Amazon and at a ridiculously low price.

I also invite you to visit my two blogs:

http://mizging.blogspot.com

http://CowboyKisses.blogspot.com

and come visit my website: http://www.gingersimpson.com

Thanks to my hostess for allowing me time and space on her blog. My one resolution for this new year is to have more Tabcon in it. :)

Today's Special Guest, Author, Angela Claire!

2012-01-18T04:03:00.000-08:00

Hello Readers,

Please make welcome, the fabulous romance author, Angela Claire. Leave a comment so Angela will know you visited her today and read all about her wonderful new release, Mandy and the Cowboy Mogul. Woo Hoo! My kind of book!

Author's Bio:

Angela Claire's first love was romance novels, but she resolved to give them up temporarily for law books (which were considerably less fun). In a quest for a 'responsible' career, she headed off to Harvard law school, obtained her diploma and settled into a corporate law practice in New York city...which she hated! After staying in the rat race long enough to pay back her massive student loans, Angela returned to her roots in the Midwest and is now raising two active boys and working as a lawyer at a more leisurely pace than big city law firm life would allow. She writes in her spare time and finds romance in real life with her husband of 24 years. If you would like to contact Angela at angelaclaire5162@yahoo.com, she would love to hear from you.

Blurb:

Everybody seems to think widow Mandy Parker is some kind of a Jezebel. Never mind that her two marriages to older men were never consummated or that her experience as a seductress is a myth. When a handsome cowboy happens into town, Mandy figures that if she's going to be cast in the role of the temptress, she might as well try to play the part in earnest and at least get the benefits.

Aidan Munroe has just taken over the railroad his family owns. When Mandy seems intent on seducing him, he decides to play a part himself, pretending to be a simple cowboy looking for work and claiming he just doesn't believe in "having relations" before marriage. He doesn't know what he enjoys more—the incredulous look on Mandy's face or her blatant attempts to disabuse him of the concept.

Will Mandy and Aidan ever stop playing their parts long enough to fall in love?

Excerpt: PG-Rating

When she put both hands up to cup his face and pressed her lips, soft and fresh, to his, he jerked his head back in surprise.

“What is it? What’s wrong?”

She didn’t remember him and walked right up to a complete stranger and kissed him? Hell, even if she had remembered him, he would’ve been shocked down to his toes. And she had the nerve to ask what’s wrong?

He knew now what Jake’s wife had wanted to tell him when he spoke of Amanda, and he felt a tremendous sense of disappointment. The heartbreakingly beautiful, vulnerable girl he remembered seemed to have turned into…her mother!

While he was busy with that disturbing thought, she seemed to have had one of her own, suddenly pulling back in horror. “Oh, good Lord, you don’t prefer men, do you?”

He was speechless as she looked at him expectantly, and when he didn’t answer, she focused instead down in the general vicinity of his crotch. “I don’t know what I’m being so missish about here. There’s one way to tell about that in a hurry.”

To his astonishment, she reached down and ran her forefinger lightly along the length of cock, and the fledgling erection that he’d been fighting roared to the fore. She petted him distractedly for a second.

“No,” she muttered almost to herself, dropping her hand. “I see it’s not that.”

He held himself perfectly still.

Finally he said, with a little more drawl than his voice normally had, “That’s a might forward, ma’am.”

She put both hands on his shoulders and, still with shock, he felt her press her full length into his. He was shocked, all right, but his cock was fine with it, lurching enthusiastically toward her underneath his breeches.

“Look,” she whispered up to him. “We both know the game, don’t we?”

He did know the game. As one of the supposedly most-eligible bachelors in Boston, and certainly the richest, he’d been treated to a fair amount of female attention, from the platonic simpering of his ex-fiancée to the studied tutelage of every level of mercenary female from whore to high-priced mistress. They’d all wanted something from him. But it wasn’t sex. That’s what he had wanted from them, for the most part.

And from Amanda Munroe—or at least his idea of her—he’d thought he wanted more. That was really why he’d come up with the plan to seek her out. He could have just mailed the documents to her with an accompanying explanatory letter. If she had been anyone else, he would have. But he had insisted on coming out West himself. In his own probably sentimental mind, the girl who had wanted to finish school, who had fended off the advances of her stepfather, who had been sold to an old man…that girl was someone he might have wanted more from, although he hesitated to articulate what.

And now that he’d found her again, what did she want from him? Incredibly, a quick fuck, it seemed.

A delicious idea occurred to him.

“Well, that’s just it, ma’am.”

“What?” Her hands wandered from his shoulders to up around his neck, running her fingers through the strands at the base. Despite himself, he shivered.

“I appreciate all the compliments and, er, this attention you been giving me.” He glanced down tellingly to his cock and then unwound her hands from the back of his neck. “But the truth is, I don’t feel right about such things unless the man and lady are married.”

Trying to suppress his smile at her astonishment was impossible. Instead, he gave in to it, and a wide grin spread on his face as he held her hands out to the side, as if to keep them away from him. She looked downright stunned. Into silence, apparently. Her mouth fell open.

So he said, “Now, I know that may sound funny—”

“In a man, it’s unheard of. A man that looks like you…well, I never.” She pulled her hands away from his, and he found he already missed the contact. “You’re not Catholic, are you?”

Her befuddled attempt to put a label on him amused him further.

“I mean, you’re not a priest, are you?”

Oh, he wished he’d thought of that one. Oh well, this was almost just as good. He put on as heavy an accent as he’d heard the farther west he got on the train and said, “No, ma’am. I mean, God and me, we’re pretty familiar with each other, but I’m not a priest. No, if I’m very lucky, someday I may find the right woman for me, and then I can enjoy the pleasures of the flesh.”

“So you don’t plan on…doing anything until then?”

“No, ma’am.”

This was priceless.

Readers, I hope you enjoyed this great excerpt. I know I did. Here's where you can find Angela's latest release.

Mandy and the Cowboy Mogul by Angela Claire

Series: Colorado Dreaming 5

Siren Publishing

Erotic Western Romance

Buy at http://www.bookstrand.com/mandy-and-the-cowboy-mogul

Secret Cravings Publishing One Year Anniversary Blog-Hop!

2011-12-17T22:49:00.000-08:00

Hi Readers,
Woo Hoo! The big day has arrived! At least the big day for me to join Secret Cravings publishing and the SCP authors to celebrate their first year anniversary with this huge Blog-Hop that started Dec. 16, 2011 and runs through Jan. 17, 2012. So mark these dates and the authors on your calendar and get ready for some fun and great prizes!
Each participating author will have their own give-away, so be sure and scope out all these wonderful authors. I realize I don't have all the author's links, but you should be able to get them as you go to other sites.

Now, before I take one more more step and tell you what my contest is all about, I want to take a moment to thank fellow author, Ginger Simpson, a lovely lady who writes the fabulous blog, 'Dishin It Out' for so graciously allowing me to 'steal' an idea from one of her postings. If she hadn't blogged about the 'Soiled Doves of the West, I would never have come up with this fun question today. If you want to read more about Ginger's article, please visit her blog site at http://cowboykisses.blogspot.com/ Trust me, it's well worth the read.
Now, that said, how many of you out there love the western romance, the hot cowboys, the spicy love scenes? I know I'm a big fan of all three. How many of you ever watched the TV series, Gunsmoke, and wondered if there was more going on with Miss Kitty and Marshall Dillon than met the eye? Now I'm not talking about the actors, but the characters they played...lol. My question today for you to leave a comment about and for a chance to win a signed copy of Witch's Fire and some other special goodies I have in mind...Tell me, what do you think?...Did she or didn't she? Did Miss Kitty "do" Marshal Dillion? Do you think she ever took him up that staircase at The Long Branch and spent a hot night in the big guy's arms?...My answer?...Most definitely, and more than once!...lol.....Now what do you say? I can't wait to read your thoughts on the subject....Tabs/Jaydyn

Participating authors in the Secret Cravings Publishing Blog Hop:

1.Avril Ashton- December 17

2.Tabby- December 18 http://www.tabithashay.blogspot.com

3.Daisy Dunn- December 19 www.daisydunn.blogspot.com

4.Marie DuFour- December 20 www.marierosedufour.blogspot.com

5.Jennifer LaBelle- December 21 http://labellebooks.blogspot.com

6.Carol – December 22 http://CarolPre.blogspot.com

7.Sable Hunter- December 23 http://sablehunter.com/Blogs.html

8.Mindi Ferrari- December 24

9.Topaz Jordyn- Dec 25

10.Brandi Quick- December 26

11.Barbara Westbrook- December 27 http://www.barbarawestbrook. com/barbaras-blog.html

12.Cynthia A- December 28 http://romanticwordsbycynthia.blogspot.com

13.Mike A- Dec 29 http://mikearsuaga.weebly.com/blog.html

14.Lacie Nation- December 30 www.soulshakinromance.blogspot.com

15.Skye Savoy- December 31

16.Mahalia Levey- January 1

17.Sam Crescent- January 2

18.Drea B- January 3 http://dreabecraft.com

19.Tamara Monteau- January 4 havensrealm. wordpress. com

20.Nicola (Imogene)- January 5

21.Raine Delight- January 6 http://authorrained elight.wordpress .com

22.Molly Daniels- January 7 http://www.mjdaniel s.blogspot. com

23.Shannon West- January 8 http://remyshannon. weebly.com/ shannons- blog.html

24.Sandy Sullivan- January 9 sandysullivanauthor.blogspot.com/

25.Dawne Prochilo- January 10 http://dawneprochilo.blogspot.com/

26.Darlene F- January 11 http://findingthewr itewords. blogspot. com

27.Cindy Christiansen- January 12 http://cadragonfly.blogspot.com/

28.Jan Graham- January 13 http://www.jangraham.blogspot.com/

29. Kellie Kamryn- January 14 www.kelliekamryn.blogspot.com

30. Rebecca (Natalie Bates)- January 15 http://natalienicolebates.blogspot.com/

31. Giselle Renard- January 16

32. Cathy Greenfeder- January 17 http://catherinegreenfeder.vpweb.com/blog

33. Jean Joachim- January 18 http://jeanjoachim.blogspot.com.

34. Layla Hunter- January 19 http://layla-hunter.blogspot.com/

For more information, visit Secret Cravings Publishing at http://secretcravingspublishing.blogspot.com/2011/12/one-year-anniversary

Please Welcome My Special Guest, Romance Author, Julie A. D'Arcy!

2011-12-04T02:15:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Readers,
Today's special guest is the fantastic paranormal romance author, Julie A. D'Arcy. I'm so honored to have her for my guest today. Please leave a comment for Julie so she'll know you came to visit her.

First I would like to thank Tabitha for hosting me on her blog this morning. I will just be telling you a little about myself and my NEW novel coming out with Secret Cravings Publishing in March 2012, Whisper of Yesterday. I wrote this novel seven years ago, but grew ill and decided not to seek a publisher, I am now well and back to writing and Whisper of Yesterday is my first novel to mark my foray back into the writing world.

So please make yourself comfortable, put up your feet, grab a cup of your favorite whatever ... and take the time to read about Whisper of Yesterday. I really enjoyed writing this novel! As it is set in Cornwall, a place I have always had a fascination for and would dearly like to visit oneday. I am sure I must have lived there in another life J

Also if you leave a comment in the comment box, naming two of the characters in the book. The answer can be found in my blurb. You have a chance to win an e-print copy of my novella “Beyond the Green Door”. Good Luck!

AUTHOR BIO:

Julie A. D’Arcy-

lives in Wangaratta, North East Victoria, Australia with her partner Philip and her spoiled Tonkanese cat Jessalyn.

Julie’s first two novels Time of the Wolf and Silverdawn were first published in 1999 and 2000 and Shortlisted for several prestigious awards, including the PEARL and Sapphire, with Time of the Wolf winning the 1999 RIO (Reviewers International, Dorothy Parker Award) in the Fantasy category for Women’s Fiction. Both books were also runners up in the prestigious Australian, RUBY Award run by the Australian RWA.

Julie began writing seriously in 1994, and is the author of a series of Fantasy romance novels based in her fictional medieval world of Tarlis. These books will be re-released over the next 2 years.

She has written for such publishers as ImaJinn Books, Mundania Press, Eternal Press, Moongypsy Press, Noble Romance Publishing and will release her brand NEW novel Whisper of Yesterday with Secret Cravings Publishing, March 2012 in e-Print formats, and August 2012 in paperback. Whisper of Yesterday is a Ghost Paranormal sensual romance, with elements of witchcraft and reincarnation.

Julie is the author of 8 full length novels(now out of print, but being released again soon) and 2 novellas.

She also writes under the name of Jewel D’Arcy for Erotic Romance and her recent and first foray into this genre can be found at https://www.nobleromance.com/Books/361/Beyond-the-Green-Door

Julie’s hobbies include reading, gardening, oil painting, making fantasy pottery, watching good paranormal, romance and fantasy movies, and creating video clips and book covers for other authors. She loves to hear from people who have read her books. julie-darcy@bigpond.com

Blurb: Whisper of Yesterday

By Julie A. D’Arcy

A cry for help, echoing through the ages, inspires a young nobleman to rewrite history – and rediscover a passion he had only dreamt of…

Cole d’Morgan is contacted by a lawyer telling him he has been left a castle in Cornwall, but to inherit he must arrive at Castle Thornwood on All-Hallows-Eve. As he pulls his car to a halt at the castle gates he sees a beautiful red-haired woman clutching at the bars in the rain. However, before he can climb from his car she vanishes into the night.

Arriving at the castle he learns that she is the ghost of Alyssa d’Morgan a woman who was tried as a witch in 1644.

He is related, by the caretaker of the castle, the tragic tale of Aidan and an Alyssa d’Morgan … a love story that spans three hundred years.

Alyssa d’Morgan burned as a witch for refusing to wed her dead husband’s father haunts the castle where she was put to death and takes revenge on the man responsible. She is sworn to haunt the castle until she is reunited with her husband and soul mate, Cai. But the rejected father, Gedrych d’Morgan being of superstitious nature, orders the druid stones outside the castle walls to be dragged into the courtyard to surround her pyre. Little does he realise that he has unleashed magic eons old that will enable Alyssa to appear as a real woman within the boundary of the stones.

Aidan d’Morgan, re-incarnated soul of Cai d’Morgan is reborn in the early 1900’s. As a child he once heard a story of a great castle in Cornwall that once belonged to his family. Whilst visiting a gentleman’s club in London with his cousin, he overhears a young man making a wager, and wins back Castle Thornwood on the turn of a card.

On entering the castle he cannot shake the feeling that he is being watched, and soon learns that the castle is haunted not by a murdered Countess as he has been told, but by a beautiful red-haired woman who speaks to him in his dreams. However, these are not simply dreams, but a past life, which he is forced to revisit in order to find an answer to an age old curse…

In the morning he becomes confused when he meets his Steward’s niece, who bares an uncanny resemblance to his resident ghost and later becomes torn between his love for a woman he can never have, and a young woman who wants him.

Then there is the mystery of who is trying to kill him. Is it Landan Denero? An agent for the Crown, a man who Aidan suspects of being a double agent, and seems to pop up in all the most unlikely places? Or someone or something more sinister as Aidan’s cousin Freddie suggests? Alyssa d’Morgan herself…

What follows is an interwoven tale of chilling betrayal and haunting love story that traverses three centuries...

Readers, please watch for Julie's new book coming soon from Secret Cravings Publishing!

The First Annual Natalie Acres Boot Scootin’ Boogie Blog Tour!

2011-11-07T01:27:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Readers,

Please make welcome the wonderful and talented romance author, Natalie Acres. I'm certain Natalie has a delicious and steamy excerpt lined up for your reading pleasure, so don't forget to leave a comment telling her just how much you love it. And get a fan, this book is smokin'.

Thank you for hosting a blog stop during The First Annual Natalie Acres Boot Scootin’ Boogie Blog Tour!

I’m excited to share information about the Cowboy Boots series in celebration of my new release, Cowboy Boots and Unsettled Debts. The third book in this romantic suspense saga, Cowboy Boots and Unsettled Debts is by far the ‘hottest’ of the series.

A Siren-Bookstrand LoveXtreme title, Cowboy Boots and Unsettled Debts introduces readers to Abby Rose and her team of seven fellow operatives. With a deadly mission in front of them, Abby’s team members are forced to face regrets as they come to terms with the fact they’ve fallen in love with one of their own. Now, with Abby taking an inside position on a very dangerous mission, Abby’s men work around the clock to make sure she leaves this assignment alive!

Released November 7^th

Cowboy Boots and Unsettled Debts

Book Three in the Cowboy Boots Series

Blurb:

Seduction turns deadly when Abby Rose, an agent with the Underground Unit, decides to put a provocative spin on revenge. Her plan to sleep with a cartel leader backfires when fellow operatives refuse Abby the opportunity to face her enemy alone.
Abby’s fellow agents begin the fight of their lives. After discovering Abby will use her body to lure in the man who killed her father, and their command leader, seven highly trained operatives cope with high tensions as each man comes to terms with feelings never previously acknowledged.
This team isn’t fighting for another cause or plotting the best way to take out their mark. The stakes are much higher. These men will take up arms and meet their greatest challenge as they work together to protect the woman they admire and love.

Excerpt:Cowboy Boots and Unsettled Debts

Rated R for content and language:

Ace snarled. “I will spank her when this is over.”

“Sure you will,” Casey said. “About like Porter plans to put a dildo in her pussy and paddle her twat.”

“I never said that,” Porter said, keeping a keen eye on Abby.

“Talk about that kiss and I’ll deck you,” Ace said.

“Damn, those lips were sweet,” Porter teased.

Ace faced him. “I wasn’t kidding.”

Porter took a deep breath. Sometimes Ace’s attitude was a real obstacle. He was a smart-ass SOB when he wanted to be. Standing about six foot four, Ace was nothing more than layers of muscle. The only soft spot the man possessed was the one Porter held in high regard, too—Abby Rose.

“I say we take him out right here,” Casey said, always ready to jump the gun.

Casey looked like a kid, and very often Porter reminded himself Casey wasn’t a child, hard to do since the guy looked like a surfer boy of about eighteen. Only a year separated them. Porter was twenty-nine. Casey followed only a year behind.

Still, Casey was a trained killer just like the lot of them. Under normal daily circumstances, he was such a klutz and a clown, but when he aimed his gun and pulled the trigger, no one had a more accurate shot.

Fowler folded his hands atop the table. “I’m ready for this to be over.”

“What’s wrong, Fowler,” Ace taunted him. “Afraid Juraz is gonna tap that?”

“He won’t be a-tappin’ that. I’ll promise ya.”

Porter and Ace exchanged a knowing stare. Porter shook his head in warning. It wasn’t worth the argument. They all recognized the possible scenarios. The best they could hope for was the most favorable. If Abby went to bed with Juraz, they wanted her to kill him before she was forced to fuck him.

Unfortunately, they needed information from Juraz before she pulled the trigger. And he probably wouldn’t open his mouth unless she first opened those long, shapely legs.

http://www.bookstrand.com/cowboy-boots-and-unsettled-debts

Please Welcome My Special Guest, Author, Lizzie Stevens!

2011-11-01T09:09:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Readers,
Today's special guest is romance author, Lizzie Stevens. Please a comment so Lizzie will know you dropped in to scope out her new book.

About Lizzy:

I have been writing for many years but never really got up the nerve to publish any of my books until around 2008. Then I finally jumped in and did it :). I'm married and the mother of two wonderful boys. My oldest will be 11 in a couple of weeks and my youngest is 7. My family is my biggest supporters in my writing.

I remember one time my oldest son had a report to do at school and the teacher asked him who his favorite author was. He said "Well, my mom of course." That just made my heart melt :) You can always count on your children to brighten your day.

BLURB:

A Surprise For Christmas/By Lizzie Stevens/This work previously published under the title, Somebody Else's Child and won 4th place in the Love Is In The Air Contest hosted by Reader Jack.

Samantha wasn’t expecting what she got for Christmas this year. Her doorbell rang and there sitting on her porch was a baby in a basket. This changes her life for the good. But then something happens. The baby’s father comes for his child. How can Samantha convince him that she is the best thing for the child?

EXCERPT:

The wind was howling across the moonlit sky. The temperature was dropping vastly outside of Samantha Smith's house as she stood in her kitchen making hot cocoa. Christmas would be on her doorstep in a matter of days. She had spent most of her adult life alone, never really finding true love. As she walked to the window to look out, she saw the Christmas star in the sky. She smiled as she thought to herself. I wonder if I make a wish for true love, will it come true. Samantha picked up a throw off the chair and walked to the couch to get comfortable for the night.

As she snuggled in for the night to watch television, she heard the doorbell ring. Samantha walked over to the door and looked out the peephole. She didn't see anybody, but she thought she would open the door to be sure. There in the middle of her porch in an infant seat was a new born baby.

http://twitter.com/LizzyStevens123

www.lizzystevens.blogspot.com

www.lizzystevens.com

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lizzy-Stevens/190503464326261

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lizzy-Stevens/190503464326261#!/profile.php?id=100001030391242

AND THE WINNER IS...DRUM ROLL PLEASE!

2011-10-31T19:19:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
I hope you've had a wonderful Halloween. For some of you, I know the fun is probably just beginning, but it's ending here in the little town where I live. I finally got a moment to draw the winning name from the Trick-or-Treat Halloween Blog Hop. Congrats goes out to Mahalia. Her name was the one drawn from the witch's hat. So, let's all send a big congrats her way and a BIG Thank You to everyone who took a moment to drop by and leave a comment...
Tabs/Jaydyn

One Last Detail For the Halloween Blog Hop!

2011-10-30T23:51:00.000-07:00

Hey All,
Please forgive the add on, but it's late here and I didn't want to delete and begin again and for some reason, my edit button isn't working so that's the reason for the two add on's...I meant to include this information in my contest...I'll also be giving a goody bag to the winner. And for those readers who already have a copy of Witch's Fire, if you're the winner, I'm offering a copy of WILD, instead, book five and the conclusion of the Montana Men Series. However, you'll have to be patient and wait for its release sometime in 2012, if that's okay with you.
Tabs

SCOPE OUT THE LINK!

2011-10-30T23:27:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
After reading the blog below, come back here to visit Drea Becraft's blog site. It's where the blog hop begins and ends right here...Have fun with the questions below!
Tabshttp://www.facebook.com/l/8AQE3qq9p/dreabecraft.com/2011/10/28/bewitching-trick-or-treat-blog-hop-contest/

BEWITCHING TRICK-OR-TREAT BLOGHOP--IT'S Heeeerrrrreeee!

2011-10-30T23:10:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,
At last, it's my turn to post for Drea's blog hop...and what fun this has been. I get to ask the last question. Well really, I have a couple of questions or two or three. To enter the contest, all you have to do is leave a comment, but I think answering the questions will prove fun too. I love Halloween. Don't you? It lets the inner child come out in all of us. Do you dress up? Do you hide behind bushes or the door to scare the kids? I love playing spooky music and having spiders and creepy things light up when the kids approach the house.
Anyway, time to get this show on the road. To win a free copy of my book, Witch's Fire, as I said, leave a comment. Hope you enjoy the blurb and excerpt. And don't forget the questions at the end of the
excerpt.

http://www.facebook.com/n/?l%2FvAQFIDPwTAQELY-5X-YYMwVqulCch6MSCvbiRc2WDtQY8ww%2Fdreabecraft.com%2F2011%2F10%2F28%2Fbewitching-trick-or-treat-blog-hop-contest%2F&mid=5148413&n_m=tabshay%40gmail.com

BLURB:

In a world where magic is dying―two people meet under unusual circumstances…

Realm of light―New to this witchy stuff, Kirrah Walker crashes her broom into a stranger and knocks him unconscious. Feeling guilty, she takes him home with her and nurses him back to health. However, she soon discovers a terrible secret―the stranger is on a mission to assassinate a witch. Now Kirrah must decide if she’ll set him free or keep him tied to the headboard of her bed…

World of darkness―Prince Stry, future King of Ru-Noc awakens to find he’s not only a captive, but captivated by the charming witch who flutters around him like a nervous butterfly. Her magick is wild and so out of control, he knows in his heart he should steal her soul, but kissing Kirrah is habit-forming.

Kirrah and Stry―magical beings who must face the fear of their past, acknowledge their future and trust in destiny in a world gone mad…

EXCERPT:

She sighed, shoved up her sleeves and went to work dragging off his low-heeled boots and socks. Carefully, she swung his legs onto the bed. Only―somehow her legs tangled with his. She stumbled and fell clumsily across the poor man’s chest.

His eyes flew open. A half-smile flirted at the corners of his mouth. Kirrah glared at him. How the heck did he manage to look so darned sexy with a big ole’ purple bruise fanning over his right eye?

Slowly, he slid his arms around her hips and squeezed her buttocks. “Well, hel-lo.”

Kirrah widened her eyes. Oh, crap, that’s all she needed, a concussed Romeo with a sexy voice hot enough to curl her toes and set her thighs on fire, a voice that both compelled and could easily lead a woman astray.

The man looked at her as if he’d never seen her before and had just discovered his favorite eye-candy. “Aren’t you just a sweet little beauty?” he purred, sounding for all the world like a hungry cat whose appetite had just been satisfied. A big, dopey, contented cat.

Sweet little beauty? She blinked. Oh, yeah, the man was definitely off his meds. Obviously he was no stranger to seduction 101, either, if the way he massaged her butt was anything to go by.

And damn, did he have to have such dreamy bedroom eyes? Tiny gold specks sparkled like angel dust in the warm amber depths. Thick gold tipped lashes completed the allure of his heavy lidded gaze. He had the kind of gold-flecked irises that attracted a woman and sucked her right in.

He might as well wear a sign around his neck that read: Come and get it, sinful indulgence right here!

And boy was she ready to go get it.

Her brows knitted together in a deep scowl. What was wrong with her? All of a sudden her hormones were out of control? She wondered if her face was as red as it felt. Since she had red hair, her complexion was the fair one typical of redhead’s. She blushed as easily as she sunburned.

His gaze wondered from her hair to her lips. Oh, my. Those tiger-colored eyes fixed on her mouth. He licked his lips as though he’d just discovered a delicious snack he contemplated nibbling on.

Startled, Kirrah gasped as he suddenly tugged her closer.

Her hands splayed across his wide chest. “Uh-Mr. Wa-Wa, I think you might be getting a tad bit carried away here. Unhand me.”

“No.” One hand slid up her back and his fingers curled around her nape holding her in place. “I don’t think I should do that at all. You belong to me,” he whispered, and took her mouth.

That was the only word for it. Took. He ravaged her mouth with a slow steamy gut-wrenching kiss. Warm and wet. Hot and melting. Yum. He might be half-dead, but he had a mouth to die for and he knew how to use it.

BLOG HOP QUESTIONS:

1--Who is your favorite author?

2-What is your favorite book and why?

3-What is your favorite genre?

For those readers familiar with my books, here's some questions about my Montana Men Series for you to answer. And the readers who aren't familiar with my books, don't worry about it, this is just for fun.

4- Which of the four published MM books is your favorite in the series?

5-Which hero from the MM series is your favorite? Why?

6-Which heroine from the MM series is your favorite? Why?

And last but not least, one last question for everyone--Cowboy or vampire? Why?

Have a safe and fun Halloween!

Tabs/Jaydyn

http://www.moongypsypress.com

http://www.jaydynchelcee.com

http://www.tabithashay.com

COMING SOON! THE BEWITCHING TRICK-OR-TREAT BLOG HOP!

2011-10-24T23:14:00.000-07:00

Hi Readers,

I love Halloween, don't you?

It's my favorite holiday of the year, along with Thanksgiving. This year, I'm so lucky to be a part of a wonderful hop that includes too many authors to name, just know it's going to a fabulous tour with some great prizes. Each author runs their own contest and picks their own winner, so you'll want to scope out each author's post. Be watching for the Bewitching Trick-or-Treat Blog Hop coming your way beginning October 28, 2011, and ending October 31, at midnight, Monday. I'll post my contest right here on October 31. I'm going to ask a very intriguing question and I can't wait to see the answers. I'll have a great goodie bag for the winner and who knows what else? So be sure and follow the tour. I'll post a link here on the morning of October 28, so you can start from the beginning with the very first stop. Ooh, I can't wait!
Tabs/Jaydyn

Please Make Welcome Today's Special Guest, Romance Author, Drea Becraft

2011-10-19T07:09:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Romance Readers,
Today's very special guest is the fabulous romance author, Drea Becraft. Be sure and leave a comment so Drea will know you dropped by.

The Baby Factor

Blog by Drea Becraft

Do you like babies in romance novels? Some say yes…some say no. I on happen to like the baby element and the conflict it throws into the mix. In more then one of my stories there is a baby in the mix but and I also enjoy reading them in stories as well.

Now I do have my limits in which kind of stories I like them in no hard core erotica…it just seems weird to me. I don’t like them in horror books either I think it has something to do with the fact that they might actually get hurt.

I am a stay at home mom so I guess that may have something to do with the whole liking them thing but honestly I think there is just something so sexy about a man that can hold a baby in his arms and be at ease.

So how do you feel? Is a baby in a book okay? Or would you prefer not to read about them.

BLURB:

Timing Is Everything

Release Date: October 17, 2011

Mandy only wanted one thing in life–to have a family. With no other options available to her, Mandy seeks out to adopt a child to call her own. Then a favor for a friend turns her world upside down and inside out.

Dmitri is on a mission to expand his business, but when his ex drops their baby on his doorstep for him to raise, Dmitri’s plans start to venture into unknown territory. If it weren't for Mandy, his whole world would be in shambles.

Both Mandy and Dmitri have their own crosses to bear but Dmitri can’t imagine life without her. In a situation neither of them planned on, can they get past their differences and find happiness together?

EXCERPT:

“I have eight hours before we leave.”

“It takes at least an hour to get there, add in the cavity search you have to go through, and baggage check and you’re going to be lucky if you make it on time if you leave right now.” As if on cue the buzzer arming the front doors went off as Tim's face filled the small screen in the corner of Sasha's desk. “Looks like hubby's here so time to go.”

“If you need anything you'll call me, right?”

“Not unless there isn't other option.”

“You can call me anytime.” At the door Sasha entered her pin number into the key pad and pushed the door open slightly.

“It’s your honeymoon. Go have fun and don’t worry about work. Everything's under control.” Making a shooing motion with her arms, Mandy smiled at Tim as he opened the door and stuck his head in giving her a wink.

“You heard the woman, it's our honeymoon. Besides, I plan on keeping you too busy to even remember your name, let alone who you work for.” Kissing his wife on the cheek before grabbing her hand, Mandy watched as the two left the office without another word.

Despite her anger over the wedding she should've been at, Mandy really did like Tim. The love he showed for her friend was one she envied and hoped some man would share with her one day. Until then she'd watch the love those two shared and be as happy as she could for them both.

Hours later Mandy sat at her computer when the buzzer filled the office. Turning to look into the monitor, the site of a lady with a carrier filled the screen. Pushing the button to allow her to enter, the cries of a baby filled the office before either mother or child entered the space. Once inside Mandy was struck by the site of the woman as the door closed behind her.

“Can I help you?” Raising up from behind the desk, Mandy looked down at the baby covered in a pink blanket.

“Yeah, I'm here to drop this off.”

“Sure, I can take that envelope for you.” Holding out her hand for the envelope in the woman’s hand, Mandy waited patiently for it to be handed over.

“Not the envelope you twit, the baby.” Lifting the carrier up onto the counter, the woman set the envelope on the desk beside it.

“Excuse me? Did you just say the baby?”

Timing Is Everything can be found here:

http://dreabecraft.com

Today's Special Guest, Author, Daisy Dunn!

2011-10-11T04:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Readers,

Please make welcome the fantastic new author, Daisy Dunn. This lady is on the rise and you won't want to a miss a single release of her book. Leave a comment so Daisy will know you were here.

Author Bio
Daisy Dunn considers herself a prairie girl, having lived most of her life in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. She lives with the love of her life, who is also her common-law partner and best friend. A hopeless romantic, Daisy fell in love with reading romance novels at age sixteen, when she bought her first romance, Desert Captive by Penelope Neri. She was thoroughly hooked and hasn't stopped reading romances since.

Daisy always wanted to write, but life has a nasty habit of getting in the way of personal goals. Well, life finally stepped aside, and Daisy has started following her passion of writing erotic romances. Her favorite genre to write is paranormal, but she is not limited to it. She also writes erotica in fantasy, contemporary, and cougar genres and is hoping to tackle time travel, western and ménage someday soon.

Blurb:

Cain awoke in darkness, knowing he was buried deep in the ground. He was ambushed by a warring vampire clan, his body brutally mutilated. Somehow, he had been placed in the healing earth for decades to mend. In the final year of Cain’s seclusion in his earthen grave, Phynix came to him as a vision. Without her knowing, she was a healer, the true soul mate to the vampire. They came together for intimate moments of intense pleasure, without the aid of touch. They were drawn to each other, but each believing it was only an erotic fantasy they were experiencing. When Cain finally emerged from his healing tomb, he realized she was real and in grave danger. He needed to save her, make her fall in love with him, convince her to give up her life as she knew it, and transform into the vampire lover she was destined to be.

Excerpt:

Phynix fell asleep within twenty minutes of crawling into bed. Cain could hear her steady breathing and her heart softly beating, pumping her luscious blood through her veins. He hadn’t feed this evening. His body always craved blood, but tonight, he didn’t want the taste of any other human on his lips before tasting her. Tonight he would feed from Phynix and mark her. To accomplish this, he needed her compliance. He would never force her like Michael tried to force her. The connection he had with her over the past year was amazing and powerful. They never actually touched each other, but still the sex remained unbelievable, the connection unstoppable. Cain suspected that if he got Phynix in the right mood and frame of mind, she would accept him and her fate. The time had come for him to reveal himself and touch her as a man would touch his lover.

Contest: You will be entered to will a copy of the first book in the Hunger Series called Hunger’s Prey, just for leaving me a comment and your email address. I will draw a name at random and be in touch with the winner. Thank you so much for taking the time to stop by and a special thank you to Tabitha Shay for hosting me here today.
This book can be purchased at: http://store.secretcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=products_all&filter_author=16&zenid=0e61042472d87831497998259d1c935d
Where I can be found on the web:
I feel like I’m all over the place, but to narrow it down, here are a few spots:
Website: www.daisydunn.ca
Blogsite: www.daisydunn.blogspot.com
Facebook: Daisy Dunn
Twitter: @daisydunnauthor
Email: www.daisydunn23@gmail.com
Secret Cravings Publishing: http://store.secretcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=products_all&filter_author=16&zenid=0e61042472d87831497998259d1c935d
XOXO Publishing: https://www.xoxopublishing.com/shop-online/?querystr=1&adultshowcat_randhash=b74c12eda4a922d3870199beef6faebc

Please Welcome My Special Guest, Author, Sam Crescent

2011-09-29T02:27:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Readers,

Today my very special guest is the brilliant new romance author, Sam Crescent. Sam pens an amazing story about an older woman's journey into love with a younger man. You won't want to miss this hot, steamy book.

Bio:

Sam Crescent is passionate about fiction. She loves a good erotic romance and so it only made sense for her to spread her wings and start writing. She began writing in 2009 and finally got that first acceptance in 2011.

She loves creating new characters and delving into the worlds that she creates. When she’s

not panicking about a story or arguing with a character, she can be found in her kitchen

creating all kinds of havoc. Like her stories the creations in the kitchen can be just as dubious

but sometimes things turn out great.

Blurb:

Do younger men treat a woman better? At least that is what Karen Wild is about to find out. This forty years old, divorced mother of two children is about to find out what being a cougar is all about. She believed she could battle anything that came her way...that is until Nick Marshall entered her life.

She never anticipated Nick, thirteen years her junior, being interested in her. He’s hot and he wants Karen all to himself.

Join this cougar as she learns to accept her sexuality and finally learns what it means to love and how a younger man can melt the years away.

Adult Excerpt:

Karen heard Nick move over her. “You taste amazing, gorgeous. The nicest pussy I've ever eaten.” Her heart fluttered. Never had Derek complimented her during sex, what a revelation this experience was becoming. She gasped watching Nick lick her essence from his lips, he truly liked the flavour of her.

He pulled her down to the floor, chuckling. “I mean it, Karen, you’re mine now,” he told her seriously.

“I know. I want to be yours,” she admitted. The truth, no matter how much the thought scared the hell out of her, was she really wanted to be his and more. More than she had ever wanted to belong to anyone before.

“I cannot wait to get inside you.” He kissed her lips.

Karen could taste herself on his lips and instead of being repulsed she found it deeply erotic.

“You're right. I do taste good.” She smiled flicking her tongue over his lips.

He growled, lifting himself over her and pushing her legs open.

She complied, spreading herself wide, to accept him into her body. She glanced down to see him and gulped. “You’re huge.”

“Thank you.” He lifted her thighs, bringing a pillow underneath her back. He smoothed his cock through her small dark curls, down her slit, covering his cock with her cream, awakening her desire further.

Karen thrust her breasts up trying to forget how big he was. She closed her eyes loving the sensation of him surrounding her.

She cried out as he thrust deep inside her, tightening at the harsh invasion. She could feel every inch of him pressed inside her. Looking up, she watched passion and ecstasy swimming in his eyes. He held her trapped within his power.

She felt rather than saw as his body pulled away and then soared forward going deeper than anything she had ever experienced. Her pussy pulsed around the width of his shaft.

“I knew you could take me,” he told her.

“I can feel everything.” She panted, circling his neck with her arms, taking his lips in a searing kiss.

Buy link: http://store.secretcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=book_info&cPath=11&products_id=138&zenid=f53574892526a0825743fa6129a1733a

Website Links:

Website/ Blog: http://samcrescent.wordpress.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/SamCrescent

Facebook: http://en-gb.facebook.com/people/Sam-Crescent/100002178529657

Naughty Romance Writers: http://naughtyromancewriters.wordpress.com/

Scope Out Today's Great Guest, Author, Jianne Carlo!

2011-09-01T01:17:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Readers,
Check out my latest guest, author Jianne Carlo. Please make Jianne feel welcome by leaving a comment.

Hi Everyone,

I’m celebrating Deviant Devil’s release with a contest. Visit my site and answer these questions and you’re entered in a drawing for a restaurant gift certificate and a copy of Deviant Devil.

What’s Sinner’s real name?

What shape is Nalini’s belly ring?

What’s the name of the private BDSM club where Devil wins Jess in an auction?

Deviant Devil Blurb:

Devil pulled the auction card from the envelope and read, “One blowjob in a private room. Condom mandatory. Touching only on my part.”

The last person Devil expects to see in a BDSM club is the best friend of his buddy’s new wife, Jessica Blaine. The all-American apple pie woman he wants so badly it’s her face he sees every orgasm for the last nine months. Is she playing? Exploring?

Tough, she’s on his turf now, she’s put herself up for auction, and by God she’s his for the night.

Jess is scared spit less. She’s going to suck off the man who may have killed, Aung, the college student she mentors who vanished three weeks earlier. When the wrong man, a masked stranger, wins the auction, she has no choice but to proceed. Horrified when she not only responds to the masked stranger, but climaxes, Jess flees.

Devil lets her go fully intending to reel her in. His way.

Excerpt - Deviant Devil:

“Found you a small treat.” Angling his chin at the bedside table, Devil said, “The New Yorker with J.D. Salinger’s ‘A Perfect Day for Bananafish.’”

Would he always surprise her into next week?

Jess stared at him, wishing she could see to his core.

How much had she misjudged him?

“Aren’t you going to check it out?”

The magazine. Right. The date made her breath hitch. January 31, 1948.

“This is incredible.” She ran a hand over the cover, relishing the quality of the paper. “How on earth did you manage to get this?”

“I’ll tell you one day.” He finished tucking the sheets around her waist, dropped a kiss on her forehead, and straightened. “Enjoy. I’ll be back as soon as I finish cleaning up.”

She stared at his retreating back.

The precious magazine held her interest for less than five minutes. She thumbed the pages, glanced at the famous short story by the author of Catcher in The Rye, arguably the most famous tome on teenage angst and alienation, read the first few sentences, and set the publication back on the bedside table.

Absently she stroked his pillows, plumped them, and then brought one to her nose. Strange how quickly she’d learned his scent, how in less than forty-eight hours, his peculiar blend of aftershave, soap, and male pheromones had become a source of comfort. And titillation.

I want him. I want him to do all the things he said. And I want to return the favor.

For so long she’d considered herself asexual. Forty-eight hours with Dominix and she’d turned into a sex fiend.

Lordy. What if I like all that stuff he’s into?

She buried her face in his pillow and squeezed her eyes shut. Stop lying to yourself. You loved it at Bacchanal. How did this all work? Can you go back once you’ve crossed the line?

“I never thought I’d be fucking jealous of a pillow.”

She jerked up, shoved the pillow back in place, and only restrained from pulling the covers over her head by biting her lips so hard the faint copper tang of blood wafted over the tip of her tongue.

Feeling his presence, knowing from quick side-glances he stood in the doorway, hands fisted, a blatant erection tenting his sweats.

Nostrils quivering, cheeks flushed, she stared at the opposite wall, willing her frozen limbs to work.

“Jess?”

His coarsened voice twisted her insides, the barely checked growl had her sex creaming, and the leashed desire in that one word question crumbled away any thought of resistance. Swallowing around the pulsing lump clogging her throat, Jess released the linen her fingers crushed with their mechanical fisting and flexing, and met his gaze.

“Yes.”

She expected him to be all over her in three seconds. Didn’t expect his terse reply.

“Good.”

Didn’t anticipate him going to the bathroom.

Followed his loping gait and the bunching of his taut ass cheeks until he disappeared.

Hissed when he reappeared naked, his jutting, purple-veined cock leading the way as he stalked to the other side of the bed. Noticed the black lengths of cloth dangling from one hand. Knew what he intended and felt not a milligram of fear, too consumed by the tidal wave of hunger crashing through her veins to contemplate any future longer than how long it would be before he was inside her.

The trembling began when he lifted her to the center of the bed. Increased as he gathered her wrists above her head and wound the soft silk around her hands. Morphed into shudders of desire after he’d looped the ties around a carved slat in the headboard. Became licks of fire racking her entire body when the pungent aroma of his weeping cock skipped to her nose.

“I can smell your pussy creaming for me.”

Her face heated.

He licked the seam of her mouth and whispered against her lips, “It gets me hard as a rock when you blush. You’re such a fricking girl next door. All this blondeness and sweetness and apple freshness on fire for a devil. How’d ya feel about that, cheerleader?”

Just For Fun: Some Questions For Jianne:

1..A fun fact readers wouldn't know about you

I’ve travelled in the Amazonian jungle and swam with piranhas – I didn’t know what they were until we were out of the Demerara River - and they were pretty – shudder.

Other hobbies or interests readers can find you doing when you're not creating another great story.

Interests & Hobbies:

I’m insatiably curious and addicted to looking up facts on my phone and I remember the most ridiculous trivia like – a child is named some form of John every 3 minutes in the world.

Love animals, especially dogs and horses. When the weather’s good, I love nothing like a trail ride, or walking a dog.

The dh and I enjoy going to the movies and then analyzing the film after.

I relish spending time with family and friends, and I love to cook for them.

Favorite food, (just thinking outside the box, lol)

I’d take lottery odds no one would ever get this – Foie Gras.

I once spent a whole week in the Dordogne region of France which is famous for Foie Gras – sheer heaven.

If you were stranded on an island what would you absolutely have to have.

Okay, I grew up on a Caribbean island, and we did a lot of boating. My dad always drummed into my head, what I needed to survive on an island – a breadfruit tree and a coconut tree. Between the two of them, you get all the nutrition you need.

But, not so seriously, the dh is all I would need.

Release Date: 08/23/11

ISBN: 978-1-61118-511-9

Publisher: Loose-Id

Publisher Link: http://www.loose-id.com/Hades-Squad-3-Deviant-Devil.aspx

Buy Link: http://www.loose-id.com/Hades-Squad-3-Deviant-Devil.aspx

Genre: Erotic multicultural contemporary BDSM suspense

Pages: 215

Word Count: 62,224

Contact Info:

Email: Jianne@jiannecarlo.com

URL: www.jiannecarlo.com

Facebook: Jianne’s Facebook Author Page

Twitter: Follow Jianne on Twitter

Amazon: Jianne’s Amazon Author Page

Goodreads: Jianne Carlo on Goodreads

Thank you Tabitha not only for being so generous and hosting Deviant Devil’s excerpt today, but also for those quirky interview questions.

Hope you enjoy!

Cheers,

Jianne

Today's Special Guest, Author, Daisy Dunn!

2011-08-27T02:43:00.000-07:00

Hi Readers,
Please help me make welcome, today's honored guest, romance author, Daisy Dunn, from Secret Cravings Publishing. Daisy is here to share with you the latest on her upcoming release, The Portal. So grab another cup of coffee, kick off your shoes, kick back and sit a-spell. I guarantee some great entertainment!

Daisy Dunn’s Bio:

Daisy Dunn considers herself a prairie girl, having lived most of her life in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. She lives with the love of her life, who is also her common law partner and best friend. Daisy is a hopeless romantic.She fell in love with reading romance novels at sixteen years of age when she bought her first romance called Desert Captive by Penelope Neri. She was thoroughly hooked and hasn’t stopped reading romance since.

Daisy always wanted to write, but life has a nasty habit of getting in the way of personal goals. Well, life finally stepped aside, and Daisy has started following her passion of writing erotic romances. Daisy’s favorite genre to write is Paranormal, but she is not limited to it. She writes erotica in Fantasy, Contemporary, Cougar, and Time Travel and is hoping to tackle Western and Menage someday soon.

Blurb:

Cole Evans has been in love with Gianna Thomas from the first

moment he laid eyes on her when he was a student at the University.
He pursued her relentlessly, but Gianna would not date him because
of their ten year age difference. She broke his heart when she pushed
him away for good, afraid to be known as a Cougar.

Five years later, Cole is now twenty-nine years old and is ready to fight
for Gianna. Before he does, he takes one more trip through the portal
he created into the alternate universe he has stumbled across. He has
been chosen as a guard for the ruling queen of this world and is
shocked when he sees that one of the prisoners is Gianna. He needs
to get her out of this place, away from the hungry gaze of the queen
and into his arms once and for all.

Excerpt:

Once the queen looked at each of the women, she walked to her throne and regally sat down. She snapped her fingers, and the guards moved into action. Every woman had a guard grab her arms from behind and hold her firmly in place. Then five different guards walked to the front of each of the five women with a knife in their hands. Their tops were gently cut open and their bras sliced apart in the front, exposing their breasts. The guards, who had just cut the tops and bras, placed their knives back in the sheaths attached to their belts. They then stepped out of the way for the queen's viewing.

Gianna was horrified. None of the other women fought back or said anything. She wanted to scream and tried to pull her arms out of the hold the guard had on her from behind, but to no avail. He was far too strong for her. She was so embarrassed by her nakedness to a room full of people. She turned her head back and forth to see if the other women were protesting, but none of them moved or made a sound. She didn't know what to do, so she decided she would hold her tongue just a little longer.
The queen sat quietly for a moment staring at the women. No one made a sound while the queen deliberated. She then spoke three words, "Three and five."
The guards pushed Gianna, who assumed she was number three, and the woman who was standing in the fifth position, forward. The rest of the women were led out of the room by the guards that were still holding them.
The guards then looked back to the queen for guidance. She blatantly stared at Gianna's breasts and then to the other woman's breasts.
The queen spoke again. "Make them hard."
Two guards stepped forward, one in front of each of the two remaining women, and started stroking their nipples. Gianna was even more horrified then she had been when her top and bra were cut open. She stared to struggle, but the guard behind her held on tight. She kicked his lower leg with her high heels, but ended up striking his calf-high leather boots. Two other guards quickly stepped forward and grabbed her legs, pinning them down on the ground, so she couldn't kick. The guard standing before her resumed stroking her nipples.
He rolled her nipples between his fingers, and as they grew in length, he pinched and stroked them till they were hard and extremely erect. He seemed to be enjoying the task he had been commanded to do.
Gianna was devastated by what was happening to her, but even more upset because her body was enjoying this guard's touch. She could feel it all the way to her core. Her pussy throbbed with every one of his tugs and twists on her nipples. She tried to look him in the eyes, but his visor covered them. She could see part of his face, but not much. His mouth looked familiar, the shape of his full lips looked sexy and inviting. She had let down her guard and was enjoying his electric touch.

The queen interrupted her now-blissful state. "Enough. Step back."

Gianna almost thought she saw a look of disappointment on what she could see of the guard's face as he released her nipples and stepped out of the way of the queen's view.
The queen stood up and stepped down from her throne. She walked up to the two women and stared at their breasts. One by one she ogled the women and then finally stood in front of Gianna. She flicked her elongated nipples, first one and then the other. She turned and walked away through the hidden door in the wall.
The guards knew which one of the women the queen had chosen. The one holding Gianna passed her to the guard, who had stroked her nipples only moments ago and said, "The queen has made her choice. Take her to the bathing room so she can be prepared for tonight."

Contest:

I would love to give away a free copy of my ebook today. All you have to do is leave a comment. It’s that simple!! I’ll pick a name from a hat and list the winner on this blog at the end of the day. Good luck and thank you for taking the time to stop by. Also, a big thank you to Tabitha for having me here today, you are a wonderful hostess J

THE PORTAL

By Daisy Dunn

Contemporary/Fantasy/Cougar Erotic Romance

4 Flames Heat Level (out of 5)

Release Date: September 2, 2011

Presale Date: August 28, 2011

Contact info:

Available at Secret Cravings Publishing: http://www.secretcravingspublishing.com/DaisyDunn.html

Email: daisydunn23@gmail.com
Website: www.daisydunn.ca
Blog: www.daisydunn.blogspot.com

Facebook: Daisy Dunn
Twitter: Daisydunnauthor

2011-06-28T17:13:00.001-07:00

Woo Hoo! The first review is back on Playing For Keeps.

2011-06-28T08:36:00.000-07:00

Thank You WC,
For a great review....Jaydyn Chelcee

http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/search?q=+Jaydyn+Chelcee

Erotic Excerpts and More!

2011-06-20T08:38:00.000-07:00

Jaydyn Chelcee's Montana Men

with Tabitha Shay


Date:	6/24/2011 - 6/24/2011
Time:	7:00pm to 9:00pm EST
Location:	http://groups.yahoo.com/group/karendevinkaren/
Category:	Romance
Summary:	You're invited to join me, Jaydyn Chelcee and Tabitha Shay at Coffee Time Romance for two hours of fun, games, contests, and spicy excerpts. See you there.
Details:
Telephone:
Website:	http://www.jaydynchelcee.com

Today's Special Guest, Author, Alan Nayes

2011-06-12T00:32:00.000-07:00

Hi Readers,
Please make welcome my guest author today, the fabulous, Alan Nayes. I don't get the opportunity to have male romance authors as my guest very often, so I'm really excited. I know you'll enjoy learning all about Alan and his latest release.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alan Nayes was born in Houston and grew up on the Texas gulf coast. After attending medical school at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, he moved to Southern California where he divides his time and energies between medicine and writing. He is the author of the critically-acclaimed biomedical thrillers, GARGOYLES and THE UNNATURAL. His most recent release is BARBARY POINT, a love story.

An avid outdoorsman and fitness enthusiast, he is one of only a few individuals to ever swim across Wisconsin’s chilly Lake Winnebago. When not working on his next project, he enjoys relaxing and fishing at the family vacation home in Wisconsin.

Barbary Point

BLURB

When Kelly English flies back to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to close out her father's estate, the last thing on her mind is falling in love. Again. Kelly is twenty-eight and engaged to an older man who is quite wealthy. She's happy and only desires to make the trip back brief, sell her deceased father's place, and return to her stable life in Los Angeles.

However, while taking care of business in Oshkosh, she meets a fishing guide who launches her on an emotional journey she could never have predicted or foreseen. Barbary Point is Kelly's story of what happens one magical week in May on the shores of Lake Winnebago when the ducklings hatch and the walleye run.

EXCERPT: BARBARY POINT/NAYES

CHAPTER 19

ROCKAWAY ISLAND

Mitch cancelled his clients for Monday. He would later tell me he would have willingly cancelled his clients for the entire summer just to spend time together. He that much had fallen for me. And I for him.

I called my office as soon as I thought Gwen would be in, adjusting for the two-hour time difference.

“Kelly, where the hell have you been? That Seagram account executive's been buzzing all morning,” Gwen ripped off immediately.

“I'm still in Oshkosh,” I said, picturing the company man with hair just a little too much in place, and a smile a little too phony. Last week I would have flown to Nepal, if that's what it took to nail down the liquor

conglomerate's ad business. Today, all that seemed to matter was getting out on the water with Mitch and Sam. What had changed?

“Kelly?” Gwen's tone had softened considerably. “What's going on?”

“Don't worry.”

“Now I am worried,” Gwen said. “Seagram's not the only one's been calling.”

“Thomas?”

“Only say, five times.”

“I'll call him,” I said.

“Kelly?”

“Yes.”

“Take care of yourself.”

“I will. See you soon,” I said, and disconnected. For a long moment, I stood in front of the bay window and looked out over the lake. The chop was less than yesterday, definitely no whitecaps, but the water's blue shade had been replaced by a gray undertone, reflecting the overcast of the sky. Mitch had listened to the weather before breakfast. The forecast called for a forty percent chance of rain, with intermittent local thundershowers. The Mako had a top we could put up so the rain would be no problem.

I didn't relish calling Thomas, he would be angry, yet I knew it was the right, the only thing to do. Watching Mitch and Sam loading the boat, I supposed I should have felt at least a modicum of guilt about the last couple of days. I didn't, and this bothered me more than feeling any remorse at all.

As time passed forward, I would come to justify these feeling as an acceptance of a decision I hadn't really made, but had been made for me by circumstances beyond my control. An emotion as strong and powerful as love had divided thrones and started wars. What chance did a young woman have? None. I would never, could never, tell Thomas this, though. At least, not today.

“Hi, Thomas,” I said as soon as he answered.

“Kelly.” No Kell-bee this time. “I tried calling you all afternoon yesterday. I've been worried sick. When's your flight?”

“Oh, Thomas...”

“Are you in some kind of trouble?”

I'm in trouble all right. “No, hon. It's just taking me longer than I thought to close out Daddy's estate. How's the magazine? Gwen said Seagram's up in arms.”

“To hell with Seagram's.” His exasperation was clearly evident. “I'm flying out there today. We'll—“

“No, Thomas.”

“What do you mean, no?”

“I'm handling it. Thomas, you have to...” I caught myself wanting to say trust, but chose believe instead, “believe me. I'll be home... soon.”

“When?”

I was caught. I had to say something. “Thursday,” I said, calculating that would give me at least tomorrow and Wednesday for... what? I'd gone insane, that was it. Emotionally insane.

“We'll talk when I get home,” I finished.

When I hung up, I knew the engagement was on the ropes. I just couldn't come out and say it. Not yet. I gazed at the huge rock adorning my finger. How could events change so rapidly? Why can't I just pack up now and leave? Take the rental straight to Appleton, catch the next flight out, and get the hell on with my life. Just do it. Save yourself a ton of heartaches, girl.

Mitch and Sam were walking off the dock. Mitch saw me in the window and gave a little salute. Ship's set for sailing, ma'am. I smiled and saluted back, my effort not near as crisp or sharp. Maybe because this is my life. The here and now.

The ice chest was loaded with beer, sandwich meat, cheese sticks for snacking, a couple of apples, and candy bars. I brought along the bread and a bag of chips I'd found stashed in a cabinet above the dishwasher. We also took along the net, two fishing poles, and Gene's tackle box, just in case, Mitch said.

I sat on a cushion seat in front of the console, facing the bow, as the Mako sped north along the shoreline. The air whisking my hair off my face was cool and moist, and left me feeling clean and pure, as if I'd just been baptized. Mitch stood behind the wheel, a Packer's cap turned backward on his head. He looks like a merchant marine, I thought, strong and handsome. I felt his finger tap the top of my head, and saw him pointing. Not thirty yards off the starboard side, a flock of at least a dozen ducks were streaking parallel to the boat in perfect linear formation.

“Mallards?” I shouted.

Mitch grinned. “See, you're a waterfowl expert now.”

The mallards veered away after the Mako zipped past Roe Point for more open water. The hull bounced some, but not enough to make me or Sam, curled just behind the bow, uncomfortable.

I pulled a light jacket I'd borrowed from my father's closet tighter across my front. I heard Mitch rev the engine and felt a surge in acceleration.

Off my left shoulder I watched us pass the Pioneer Resort Marina, and then the mouth of the Fox River.

Mitch named off landmarks—Bray's Point, Miller Bay, Doemel Point, Menomenee Park,—as we sped north.

I saw boats fishing, sailboats, and several water skiers in wet suits.

I heard Mitch say, “You want to ski?”

“What's the water temperature?”

“Sixty-two.”

“I'll pass.”

“Wanna pilot?”

I waved. “I'm fine here. I just like watching the lake.”

“You sound like your dad.”

His words touched me somewhere deep in my chest, and I turned and leaned up on my knees and kissed Mitch. The choppiness of the water made my first attempt fall short, landing on his chin, but my next effort was right on the money. The kiss was brief, yet warmed me inside out.

“You're beautiful,” he said.

I didn't think I looked beautiful, with my hair all over the place, yet felt like a princess when Mitch told me.

website http://anayes.com/

Amazon http://amzn.to/jwaVbN

Barnesandnoble.com http://bit.ly/j4mUlk

Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/527589.Alan_Nayes

Facebook http://on.fb.me/mflYEU

Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/alannayes

Blog http://alannayes.blogspot.com/2011_06_01_archive.html

Readers, be sure and leave a comment for the chance to win an E-copy of Barbary Point.

Today's Special Guest, Romance author, Destiny Blaine

2011-05-31T22:28:00.000-07:00

Hi Readers,
It's always such an honor to have Destiny as my guest. What a wonderful, talented author. I know you'll enjoy her excerpt and the smoking cover for her new erotic cowboy release, Roping in Forever. Loved the cover and excerpt. Please leave Destiny a comment so she'll know you were here.
Tabs

BLURB:

AVAILABLE: Wednesday, June 1st
This new release is offered at a 10% discount for one week.
[Siren Allure: Erotic Cowboy Romance]
Corbin Cansey will love the daylights out of Bella McDermott. That is, just as soon as he gets around to it. Corbin has been running from Bella since she was a teenager, and he’s been looking the other way since she became old enough to win his heart.
The trouble is, Bella is tired of waiting. She follows Corbin to a San Antonio rodeo and watches as he indulges in a few sex-related activities. Green with envy, Bella realizes it’s time to teach Corbin a few valuable lessons about loving a woman.
Bella gives Corbin a good taste of what he’s been dishing up—a stout dose of jealousy. And even though her plan is destined to fail, her notions are guaranteed to make a man twitch in his Wranglers, assuming he can keep them pulled up where they belong.

Story Excerpt:

Corbin knew he’d drawn a bad bull. He’d sort of had an uneasy feeling earlier that day when he’d first arrived at the fairgrounds, but after he’d held Bella in his arms, everything changed.
She gave him strength. She made him believe in himself and his abilities. If Corbin listened to some of the whispers around him, staying on Captain Crazy was next to impossible, but for some reason he felt like a man who was about to take the best ride of his life.
Tucking his gloved hands under the rope, Corbin realized all eyes were on him. Hell, half the fans were on their feet, acting like they were getting ready to watch a cowboy’s last rodeo. He hated it when these situations happened. Half the time, a bull’s reputation made a loser out of a cowboy. When the crowd seemed to stand behind the bull rather than the man riding him, well, it just seemed like the odds stacked up against a fella.
Corbin searched the stands, found the large letter A, and dropped his gaze down, looking straight across the arena into the brilliant-blue sparkling, and quite watered down, eyes of the woman he loved. He tilted his hat and slapped his chest.
Bella was his heart. The rodeo was his job.
“You’re good to go,” Travis assured him, helping Corbin lower himself atop the angry bull that would either make or break him in this competition. “You got this, Corbin.”
Corbin swung his gaze toward Bella, one last time. “You’re damn straight I got this.” Smiling wide, he raised his right arm and his head and shoulders flew back. “Okay, fellas! Let’s see if this bull can give a good ride!”

Buy Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/roping-in-forever
Website: http://www.destinyblaine.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/DestinyBlaine
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DestinyBlaine

My Special Guest, Paranormal Author, Marion Webb-De Sisto

2011-05-30T19:52:00.000-07:00

Good Morning, Readers,
As always, I'm happy to welcome you to my blog site. My very special guest is the fabulous, paranormal author, Marion Webb-De Sisto. She's agreed to share with us a little about her new book, The Final Retribution, and has journeyed all the way from the UK to be here today. I think you'll find her character interview as fascinating as I do. So let's make this special lady feel welcome and leave those comments so she'll know you were here....Tabs

BLURB:

Final Retribution: Book Three - Life as the powerful ruler of Abbadon is becoming intolerable for Samael. The exiled archangel is lonely, embittered and bored. He has lost Malkura's love and even, Seriel, his loyal brother is gone from his side. Yet into this hellish existence comes the beautiful and compassionate Angel Manah. Will she deny the increasing love she feels for this condemned soul or can he persuade her to join him in endless damnation? This final book of the trilogy explores the ultimate retribution of the radiant archangel who fell from grace.

Interview with Angel Manah:

Interviewer: "Today we have Angel Manah with us. There’s a lot of angelic gossip going around about her so we’re hoping to get the real scoop. Welcome, Manah, it’s great to have you here. My name is Janet and I’m looking forward to chatting with you.”

Manah: “Thank you, Janet, I am happy to be here.”

Interviewer: “So where to begin? Your life seems to be rather hectic lately so I’m pleased you could find time to be interviewed. I’ve heard you keep visiting Samael in Hell. Oops! I guess I’m supposed to call him Prince Samael. My colleague, Andrew, was told to do that.”

Manah: “Yes, he thinks he should be addressed as such, but his real title is Lord Samael.

Interviewer: “Why does he want to be different?”

Manah: “He considers himself to be more important than the other archangels. Your colleague probably noticed he is very proud.”

Interviewer: “Andrew did remark on his apparent sense of importance but being the head honcho in Hell does carry some weight I suppose.”

Manah: “You have many strange expressions in your 21st century world but I think I know what you mean. We also refer to his domain as Abbadon not Hell.”

Interviewer: “So can you tell us why someone who is as wholesome as you would want to be keeping company with the devil? I didn’t see him but the girls in our office said he was a real hunk and nothing like how we would imagine him to look. No horns, cloven hooves or tail and no pitchfork. Are you attracted to him even though he is who he is because he’s drop dead gorgeous?”

Manah: “Lord Samael is very handsome and he can be charming when he wants something from you. It is difficult for me to ignore my attraction to him but I must because I abhor his evil actions. If I became his consort as he has suggested that would mean I condone his wicked nature and I cannot.”

Interviewer: “Ah, he wants you to be his consort. He has others, too, doesn’t he?”

Manah: “He did have Lilith, but he sent her away from his palace so only Kokabel is with him now.”

Interviewer: “And he wants you to join him as well. Hmm, I guess it’s quite flattering to have such an important guy wanting you to be his and yet a little scary too. Doesn’t it mean he would own your soul or something like that?”

Manah: “The manner in which he possesses a soul is by extracting it with his lodestone crystal and then keeping it prisoner in a dome from which there is no escape. I trust he will never do that to my soul.”

Interviewer: “Well, Manah, if you stop going to see him there would be no chance of him grabbing your soul and that leads me to my next question. Why have you been back and forth two or three times to Abbadon?”

Manah: “It would take too much of your time for me to explain fully I shall just try to give you a very brief summary. Lord Samael coerced Lady Malkura into living with him but, Lord Seriel, his brother, rescued her. I had accompanied Lady Malkuramy mistress to his palace. When she escaped he kept me prisoner as a way of forcing her to come back to him. She refused and he had to release me but only on the condition I would visit him at least once. I did and then he persuaded me to return one more time.”

Interviewer: “I guess it’s hard to refuse him even though you hate the things he does?”

Manah: “Yesit is difficult. When his anger is not controlling him he is charming and very persuasive. Lord Samael is also very generous. He gave me this comb and my armlet.”

Interviewer: “I’m going to describe these two items for our readers. The comb is made of tortoiseshell with what I believe are topaz gems across the top. It’s a really beautiful hair decoration. Manah is also wearing what looks like a solid gold snake wrapped twice around her upper arm. It has amethyst eyes and is a stunning piece of jewelry. I have to say I can understand why you’re feeling ambivalent about Lord Samael. These are lovely gifts.”

Manah: “He is perplexing. To me he is generous complimentary and attentive yet to others he is cruel and demanding. Lord Samael is very protective of me as well.”

Interviewer: “Apparently he is. Andrew told me how during his interview he was warned by the archangel that nothing must be said to upset or concern you. If it was, he would punish the culprit. So, Manah, I would say Lord Samael has feelings for you.”

Manah: “It is impossible for me to believe he does.”

Interviewer: “Then why would he give you gifts and be concerned about your welfare?”

Manah: “This has puzzled me but I have come to this possible conclusion. I remind him of Lady Malkura and so he feels kindly toward me. If it is not the reason then he is amusing himself by pretending to be interested in me.”

Interviewer: “I suppose the devil could act affectionately for some twisted sense of humor. However, I’m sure it’s not why he is good to you. Perhaps you don’t realize just how beautiful you are.”

Manah: “Thank you, Janet for your kind words, but I cannot imagine Lord Samael being attracted to me. An angel is less than an archangel.”

Interviewer: “I really can’t comment on that. My knowledge of angelic matters is very limited. Now you mentioned Lady Malkura and I’d like to ask you about her. Wasn’t Lord Samael in love with her?”

Manah: “Yes, they shared a deep love until he changed. His cruel acts and devious behavior drove her away and she is now in love with his brother, Lord Seriel, who has always loved her. He is a noble archangel and was loyal to Lord Samael until he helped my mistress escape. His action caused a great rift between them and he was banished from Abbadon by his sibling.”

Interviewer: “But he went back. Why?”

Manah: “Lord Seriel wanted to tell him how much he was saddened by his drastic change in character. They fought against each other with their crystal wands and both were injured. However, they did reclaim their former closeness.”

Interviewer: “I’ve heard about those weapons. They must be quite deadly?”

Manah: “They can cause terrible injuries, but they can also transport you instantly to wherever you wish to go.”

Interviewer: “Fascinating. Well, I’m getting the signal to wind this up so I’d like to thank you for being here for answering my questions and giving us a better idea of what is happening between you and Lord Samael. I do hope things work out for you. Maybe he’ll have another change of character and become a good guy once again. I think they call that redeemed.”

Manah: “Sadly, it will never happen. I have to make myself forget about him. I am grateful for your interest and I believe talking about my feelings has been of help to me. Thank you, Janet.

Author Marion Webb-De Sisto
Fiction - Adventure and Romance with a Devilish Twist.
Non-Fiction - Helpful Information on CrystalsCrystal SkullsHealing and the Spirit World.

Website - www.marionwebb-desisto.com

Blog - http://marionwebb-desisto.blogspot.com/

Amazon Author Page - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Marion-Webb-De-Sisto/e/B002A06PMK/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1

FaceBook - http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=671911733#!/pages/Marion-Webb-De-Sisto-Author/121238787930802

AuthorsDen - http://www.authorsden.com/marionwebbdesisto

Alternative-Read - http://www.alternative-read.com/aamarionwebbdesisto.htm

AuthorIsland - http://www.authorisland.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=748&Itemid=602

Edin Road Blog Talk Radio/Jaydyn Chelcee guest

2011-05-11T03:18:00.000-07:00

Hi Readers,
Just in case you missed me at Edin Road Blog Talk Radio, May 10, you can listen to the broadcast right here when you have a spare thirty minutes. Just click on the tiny letters, Edin Road, then scroll down to Jaydyn Chelcee and click. There's a short commercial first, then the show begins. WARNING: The excerpt is R-Rated....Have a great day! Tabs/Jaydyn

Listen to internet radio with EdinRoad on Blog Talk Radio

Scope out this latest review of Witch's Heart!

2011-02-25T07:52:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Readers,
Scope out the latest review of Witch's Heart, book two in the Winslow witches of Salem series....Tabs

http://www.vampirebooks.ca/reviews/witchauthors/tabithashay2.html

Scope out my new trailer for the Montana Men!

2011-02-23T20:24:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YA7oad39r4

Today's Special Guest Author, Lorrie Unites-Struiff!!

2011-02-18T08:56:00.000-08:00

Hi Readers,
Please make Lorrie feel welcome today by leaving comments and gaining a chance to win one of her awesome books....Tabs

Hi Tabs,

I’m here again, and thank you for having me.

I know many readers love to read full novels, and since the different e-readers are becoming more popular every day, I thought I’d talk to the short story lovers out there.

The slip in your purse e-reader you received as a Christmas gift, or treated yourself to, is the perfect item to download a short story fast while waiting in that doctors office, or reading on a plane, sitting on the beach, or face it, anywhere.

There is a myriad of great shorts to select from and they span all genres. Would you believe some readers prefer short stories over full novels? That little tidbit surprised me too.

The white or blue collar worker who wants a quick read on their lunch break. The soccer mom or dad who is patiently waiting for the sports practice to end and sits in the car to read.

The teens that try to fit a story in between homework, computer games and texting.

Or, like me. A short story right before I hit the bed at night to relax and unwind from an over-active day. Whew. Some ‘Me’ time. A story that I can read from start to finish in one sitting. How sweet it is.

So, I’m here today to introduce my three newly released short stories that have been published in various anthologies. I decided to release them separately and hope readers will find them interesting. They are all different genres to suit your particular taste.

A historical fiction, an amusing modern day fantasy and a contemporary drama.

I love spanning the genres. I also have a paranormal thriller/romance novella out “Gypsy Crystal” with Eternal Press.

If you are interested, other releases are listed on my website at http://struiff.wordpress.com/

Pop over and take a look. And while you are there, check my “Book Picks” page to see some great reads from other authors. You won’t be disappointed.

Recent releases

Have you ever watched Dancing with the Stars?

Do you know what the dance Paso Doble signifies?

Here is your chance to find out.

Lisa needs to win the gold medal to garner prestige for her dance studio. She lures Eduardo, a sizzling hot Latino dancer visiting from Miami, to be her partner in the contest. Will Lisa’s plan work? Adult rating.

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/41324

Winnie tries skydiving with her husband for their anniversary. Bad, bad idea! She learns about the halfway plateau, a busy place. Her accidental revenge is sweet. Come along for her humorous adventure. G rating

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/40999

A historical fiction short story about one of the bloodiest Valentine Days in American History.

G rating

Available at http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/40361

# # #

On the date Tabatha chooses, one commenter will be chosen to receive a free coupon for the story of their choice to download on any e-reader, so please remember to leave your email address.

Thank you all for being here today. Happy reading.

Lorrie

WOO HOO!!! Witch's Fire Nominated For Best Paranormal of 2010

2011-01-18T16:58:00.000-08:00

Hi Readers,

I'm so excited to announce that Witch's Fire is a nominee for best paranormal in 2010 at Dawn's Love Romances Cafe and has made it to the finals. This is such an honor. The competition is fierce and there are some great books and authors in the contests, so be sure you drop by and cast your vote for your favorite when the voting begins. Best of luck to everyone!

New Video!

2011-01-16T09:51:00.001-08:00

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

Woo Hoo!

2011-01-06T14:20:00.000-08:00

Hi Readers,

I'm so excited about my new cover for the upcoming novel, WILD, the final installment of the Montana Men series. Wild, along with Playing For Keeps, will be released later in the year from Moongypsy Press. In the meantime, why not get to know the characters from the series by starting with book one, In the Arms of Danger. Book two, No Holds Barred is scheduled for re-release and coming soon, also from Moongypsy Press. You can find book three, Too Close To The Fire at Fictionwise or in print at Amazon.

Thanks to all my fans and readers for hanging in there and waiting patiently for these final two books, for your prayers and understanding while I took time away from writing to deal with my daughter's health problems.I appreciate all of you.

Happy Reading,

Tabs

Today's Wonderful Guest is Rob Appleton...

2010-12-20T03:34:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Readers,
Please make welcome today's very special guest, British author Rob Appleton. It's always an honor to have this young man drop by. I know Rob has a contest for your fun and a wonderful excerpt for your reading pleasure. Be sure and leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Rob and Sloane's new release...Tabs

Hi Tabs ! Thanks for the kind invite. It’s now snowing heavily here in Bolton, England, so I think it’s time for a sensual teaser to warm things up a little. At the end, I’ll be giving away an eBook copy of Claire de Lune to one lucky commenter. But first, a quick intro :

You’re invited to the galaxy’s most prestigious beauty pageant. Clothing optional. Romance and danger…fully provided…

Cocky young detectives Gerry Rappeneau and Sebastian Thorpe-Campbell arrive at the premier lunar resort expecting a week of eye candy and long massages. With a half-billion-credit purse up for grabs, this year’s pageant is the focus of a hundred worlds. And beauty isn’t the only thing in the eye of the beholder.

One contestant, Evelyn Lyons, is attacked and her assailant killed. Surely a simple case of a stalker gone mad, as nothing bad ever happens at the Selene contest. So the brochure says.

The closer Gerry gets to Evelyn, the more he is convinced she’s hiding something. His meticulous character sparks with her wild, sassy nature, and they embark on a torrid affair. Their forbidden romance isn’t the only thing set to ignite in Pont de Reves.

Sebastian’s infatuation with demure Claire Villiers, another contestant, threatens to put all four of them in harm’s way.

A deadly trail of corporate conspiracy, monstrous assassins and hot bikini wax is more than anyone bargained for in this incendiary erotic mystery. Get ready for some serious heat on the dark side of the moon.

The fabulous Sloane Taylor and I had a blast collaborating on this smoking hot sci-fi mystery novel. Our exclusive excerpt takes place after a tense casino scene in which Sebastian and Claire shared some heat across the baccarat table. But Sebastian’s partner, Gerry, has just uncovered evidence that puts Claire in harm’s way…

***

“Excuse me, Ms. Villiers.” Sebastian grew lightheaded as he leaned in close to her shiny brunette curls and Mystique perfume. “Will you come with me, please.” It wasn’t a question.

She neither looked up at him nor reacted in any way surprised. “What for, Detective?” she asked with sultry confidence, separating her red tower of ten thousand plaques into two even piles. “Am I under arrest?”

“No, but your life may well be in danger.”

He watched her beautiful, swan-like neck for a reaction. Sure enough, the lump in her throat seemed to roll like a heartbeat in slow motion. Fear.

“Come on. I’ll escort you back to your room. And don’t worry; you’re safe with me.”

She nodded. Sebastian helped her off her stool, then scooped up her chips and kept her close as they walked to the caisse. No words, only half smiles, ricocheting glances, and a mutual shortness of breath betrayed the rising attraction he perceived. Sebastian thought she looked devastating in a bride of Dracula sort of way—eye shadow, spidery eyelashes, black gloves, a somewhat Gothic, figure-hugging evening dress. There was also a caginess about her, a taciturn depth that seemed to scrutinize the world from beneath her sweet exterior. He could feel the intensity effervescing through his pores, like the shared taste of champagne during a French kiss.

Claire stuffed the credit discs in her soft, black purse and wrapped the handle’s silver beading around her knuckles. The sucker looked heavy. She’d done well at the baccarat table.

“Good night, sir, madam,” said the doorman.

“Yeah, ’night.” Sebastian turned to Claire. “Here, let me carry that. It’s too much for a little lady to haul about.”

She brushed his hand away and, to Sebastian’s genuine surprise, she offered him her other one. A bone-deep frisson gripped him. He almost tripped over his own heels as he sidled closer and took her hand. A breathless sensation. Warm butterscotch with the tingle, but not the crackle of static. All the way to the hotel foyer, his heart and his head and his hand occupied the same space—molded in the supple magic grip of Claire Villiers.

“Aren’t you going to tell me what this is about?” Her sideways glance melted the last of him.

“Detective Rappeneau says you’re in trouble. Do you know a woman named Evelyn Lyons?”

“No.”

“She’s another Selene contestant—blonde, from Yordan.”

“I don’t know her.”

They reached the empty elevator. Sebastian pressed three.

“Well, she seems to know you. Her room was ransacked tonight, and whoever did it seemed to be interested in your profile—it was found among Ms. Lyons’ things. Coincidence, wouldn’t you say?”

“Yes, I would.” Her expression remained inscrutable, her posture stately. “What do you think it means?”

Sebastian didn’t believe her, but he thought it was wise to play along until Gerry called. Branding her a liar felt wrong on every conceivable level of his conscience, not the least because he had an erection the size of the Washington Monument. He cleared his throat. “We don’t know yet. But I promise I’ll keep you safe until we find out.”

“Thank you, Sebastian,” she said. A glowing smile extended to her eyes.

“My pleasure.”

Christ! Even the sound of the word “pleasure” in close proximity to her sent a typhoon raging through his brain. He had to stop thinking with his dick. If Gerry was right and Claire was in the crosshairs, a horny bachelor would be as much use to her as paper stilettos. He was armed, yes, but what use was that if he couldn’t hold the fucker straight?

“Won’t you come in?” She let go of his hand and retrieved her room card from her purse.

“I think I’d bett— No! Don’t touch it!” He grabbed her arm as she shoved the card into the lock. Yanking her away from the door, he sickened at the affirmative click. He stepped out of a quick cold shower of shame. His mind had been wandering. He’d almost let her open the door to her room without checking it first. Unforgivable.

Claire rubbed her arm where he’d manhandled her.

“Stay here.” He sprang into action with his palms pressed against the cool metal grip of his Kruger. “Don’t…move.” He smashed the door open with a single kick and swallowed the geography of the room in a split-second glimpse. No threat that he could see. A bit of a mess near the wardrobe—clothes left on the floor or tossed over the back of the chair. But that could just be Claire’s untidiness. Otherwise, the room resembled Evelyn Lyons’ to a fault. Expensively accoutered, spacious, big window. Sebastian darted out into the middle of the room, his firearm trained on the Jacuzzi area, then behind the wardrobe, behind the door. He checked under the bed, inside the wardrobe.

A sigh.

“It’s all right, Claire. You’re safe to come in.”

No reply. His heart plummeted. He made ready to tear outside, to chase her and her kidnapper to the ends of the moon, and kill anyone who got in his way. Then she slinked inside and, expressionless, eased the door shut behind her.

“We’ll just stay put…wait for the word from Gerry.” He sank his pistol into its holster. Claire took his jacket and hung it up behind the door.

“Can I get you a drink?” she said.

“No, thanks. I’m good.”

“A bite to eat?”

“Nah, best not get too comfortable. But I think it’s time you came clean about—”

Claire reached for his hand and pulled him toward her. Her freckled face was clearly a strawberry red, her lips trembling. She wrapped her arms around him, holding him close. Sebastian nestled his chin in her soft, dark brown curls, twining her warm fingers with his. They swayed to an inner beat, their slow dance a syncopation of heartbeats on the skip. Breathless, he leaned back until she looked up, her big, hazel eyes glinting and full of want. What a gentle creature she really was beneath the glamour. A vulnerable, fragile beauty. A lady.

***
And now for a mini Selene contest of our own. To be in with a chance of winning a copy of Claire de Lune, simply nominate one man and one woman you think are the most beautiful in the world. The only rules are they have to be living and famous. Leave your choices in the comments section and I’ll pick the winner in a few days. Have fun!

Claire de Lune is available to buy at Amber Quill Press, Amazon Kindle, All Romance Ebooks, and all good digitial book outlets. Also coming soon in paperback.

Robert Appleton has a website here, and Sloane Taylor has one here. Drop by and say hello.

Twelve Days of Christmas with Destiny Blaine!

2010-12-11T06:09:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Readers,
Please make welcome my very special guest, Destiny Blaine who is hosting her Twelve Days of Christmas and I'm so lucky to be sharing one of those days right here on my blog site. So...welcome, Destiny!

Hi, Tabitha!

Thank you for allowing me to be your guest today. I wanted to stop by and tell you about my new novel. Waking up the Arguably Dead is available now at Passion in Print.

Waking up the Arguably Dead is a Dark Paranormal MFM Romance with comic relief elements. Readers will get a glimpse inside my hometown of Blountville , Tennessee as they flip the pages of this Passion in Print novel. They’ll see what I see while driving down Main Street and they'll discover a country store, while somewhat fabricated, where many of us pop in for an ice cold soda and good conversation.

Waking up the Arguably Dead introduces readers to Granny Myrtle, a spunky little old woman who is several characters all wrapped up in one. I created Granny from a few country grandmothers I’ve had the pleasure of meeting at least once. As for Addison: Well, I don't know anyone quite like Addison but she sure is one lucky gal. Read the book and find out why a lot of girls in these parts might be a little envious.

In this novel, you’ll meet Melissa, the LPN over at the local physician’s office. I’m happy to say she is true to form. No, there isn’t a Dr. Michaels in Blountville, but Melissa lives here. She’s a saucy little vixen who knows what she wants and doesn’t care to tell everyone how much she’s enjoyed getting it. The first name has been changed to protect the promiscuous and as far as I know the real ‘Melissa’ never worked a day in her life. You'll like her though. She's full of surprises.

Step inside Waking up the Arguably Dead. Meet my characters. Then, drop an email and let me know what you think. What would you do if you were in Addison’s shoes? destinyblaine@yahoo.com.

Waiting to Die Can be Such a Drag

Blurb:
Martin Cartwright's neighbor receives disheartening news. She's dying. As far as Martin can tell, Addison has never looked better, but when daily sightings of his beautiful neighbor become few and far between, Martin realizes Addison isn't too keen on living. And he decides to help her get on with dying.

Martin plans to scare Addison into living. Unbeknownst to him, someone is watching with similar goals. Only Drake Valentine's interests in the lovely Miss Deveraux vary from Martin's ambitions. Soon, Addison must choose between living in the shadows of sickness and stepping into the darkness where she's always been drawn.

Waiting to Die Can be Such a Drag

Blurb:

Martin Cartwright's neighbor receives disheartening news. She's dying. As far as Martin can tell, Addison has never looked better, but when daily sightings of his beautiful neighbor become few and far between, Martin realizes Addison isn't too keen on living. And he decides to help her get on with dying.

Martin plans to scare Addison into living. Unbeknownst to him, someone is watching with similar goals. Only Drake Valentine's interests in the lovely Miss Deveraux vary from Martin's ambitions. Soon, Addison must choose between living in the shadows of sickness and stepping into the darkness where she's always been drawn.

Excerpt:

Addison Deveraux stared at her family physician for several minutes, unable to speak and incapable of processing the information he relayed. She focused on the white walls around her. She skimmed over the medical licenses and board certifications, eventually narrowing her gaze on the overstuffed plastic brochure rack housing material about common medical problems. The entire time, she remained faintly aware of her doctor’s monotone voice. An avid movie enthusiast, Addison disconnected from the moment and recalled a recent flick she’d watched.

She remembered one scene in particular where a woman learned of her life-destroying health circumstance. Thanks to modern day technology, the character slipped into a mindboggling funnel surrounded by noise typically found in a seashell. The echo intensified and the room scrambled into spinning pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.

On the big screen, the actress sobbed. The doctor calmly provided information about the disease for which she’d been diagnosed and the woman finally zoomed in on those fated words: “You’re dying.”

Addison blinked. “I am?”

“ Addison ,” Dr. Michaels began gently, “Haven’t you heard a word I just said?”

She swallowed. “No, I was…” Thinking about dying.

“ Addison , this isn’t something you should take lightly,” Dr.Michaels stressed, leaning over his desk. An older man with salt and pepper hair, Dr. Michaels wore tinted large-rimmed glasses and resembled someone who might have been chosen to portray a physician delivering detrimental news.

Addison watched his mouth move. His words hummed all around her, beating into her ears like a hollow drum. “Treatment is something we should discuss together. This isn’t the end and that’s it.”

Boom. Boom. Boom. The maddening tempo gained momentum.

Advice slipped from his lips but the words ran together in a never-ending slur. “Think of diagnosis as a transition. By the time you’ve processed the information I’ve given you, you’ll be ready to face the days ahead. In the end, you’ll be much better off.”

She gulped. There it was. The dreaded statement, You’ll be much better off.

How many times had she attended a funeral for one of her grandmother’s friends and heard the same thing? Mary Lou Cornell went to a better place. Dan Bradley was much better off after both arms and one leg were amputated.

Carla Sue Davis found Jesus after living on the streets and working for some pimp who decided to repay her years of servitude with continual beatings. And Barbara Jo Jones faced death the same way she’d faced living; always waiting for the other shoe to drop.

No indeed, Addison refused to walk down the same road chosen by Granny Myrtle’s best friends, or her cousin Gertrude, who for some reason received her bad news and decided to kick the bucket, before the bucket smacked her upside her head. No way. Addison planned to do a little better for herself. She’d die on her own terms.

The way Addison met death was her decision. Since she had a choice in the matter, she planned to go on out there and greet death—take her fate by the horns and ride the daylights out of it.

Yep, it was time to get on with dying.

Waking up the Arguably Dead by Destiny Blaine

Coming to Passion in Print on December 11, 2010
MFM Paranormal-Vampire

Links: http://destinyblaine.blogspot.com/

http://www.destinyblaine.com/

Buy Link:

http://passioninprint.com/

Wow, Destiny,
This book sounds fantastic...Best of luck with sales and please return soon to be my guest....
Tabs

Please make welcome, the fabulous Sloane Taylor!!

2010-12-08T04:54:00.000-08:00

Hi Readers,
Today I'm so honored to have one of the best Erotic Romance Novelists, Sloane Taylor as my special guest. She, along with her writing partner, Rob Appleton are sure to have a big hit with their new book, Claire De Lune. So drag up a chair, sit down and stay a spell...no pun intended...I promise you'll love the excerpts they've chosen for today....they're smokin'...
Tabs

Hi Tabitha,

Thanks for having me out to play today. I appreciate the opportunity to chat with everyone. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m a sensual woman who believes humor and sex are healthy aspects of our everyday lives which carry over into my books.

I was born and raised in Chicago. Studly, my non-husband and mate for life, and I split our time between a home in Illinois and a weekend cottage on the back roads of Indiana…or you can catch up with me as I travel through Europe, researching new material.

Please visit me at http://www.sloanetaylor.com, http://www.myspace.com/sloanetaylor and of course http://www.facebook.com/home.php.

Genres: Science Fiction / Futuristic / Action / Adventure / Mystery / Detective / Voyeurism

Heat Level: 2
Length: Novel (70k words

BLURB:

You’re invited to the galaxy’s most prestigious beauty pageant. Clothing optional. Romance and danger…fully provided…

Cocky young detectives Gerry Rappeneau and Sebastian Thorpe-Campbell arrive at the premier lunar resort expecting a week of eye candy and long massages. With a half-billion-credit purse up for grabs, this year’s pageant is the focus of a hundred worlds. And beauty isn’t the only thing in the eye of the beholder.

One contestant, Evelyn Lyons, is attacked and her assailant killed. Surely a simple case of a stalker gone mad, as nothing bad ever happens at the Selene contest. So the brochure says.

The closer Gerry gets to Evelyn, the more he is convinced she’s hiding something. His meticulous character sparks with her wild, sassy nature, and they embark on a torrid affair. Their forbidden romance isn’t the only thing set to ignite in Pont de Reves.

Sebastian’s infatuation with demure Claire Villiers, another contestant, threatens to put all four of them in harm’s way.

A deadly trail of corporate conspiracy, monstrous assassins and hot bikini wax is more than anyone bargained for in this incendiary erotic mystery. Get ready for some serious heat on the dark side of the moon.

EXCERPT: CLAIRE DE LUNE

…Evelyn glared across at Van der Sands, her grey eyes metallic and sharp. Busy placing the new drinks order, the banker didn’t notice her.

“He’s a son of a bitch.” Evelyn retrieved a white business card and a ballpoint pen from her purse. She wrote on the back and slid it to Gerry.

He swallowed hard as he read, Clean the bastard out & I’ll sleep with you tonight.

She let her hands fall loose at her side, unmasking her face. Gerry’s first thought was one of easy acquiescence. Whatever she wanted! If this was the start of some kind of saucy foreplay, why the hell not? Then he watched the curious game within the game unfold.

A few slow-burning fireworks started the show. Sly glances between her and Van der Sands; the brunette girl with fleeting yet repeated eye contact; Evelyn whistling a tune. Subtle—but the shared air was definitely combustible. What was going on among the three of them? And what did she have against her old boss?

He slipped the card into his pocket. The drinks arrived and Van der Sands made sure everyone was ready to resume. “Le jeux est fait. Un banco de quatre cent mille.”

The CEO wasn’t messing around. High stakes, just like the previous round. Gerry might have backed off—four hundred thousand was two fifths of his total allowance for the night—but Evelyn’s note and the bizarre charades had already piqued his interest. “Banco,” he announced.

Van der Sands dealt him two quick cards and a lengthy, probing stare. Gerry matched the latter. At first the man had seemed indifferent, almost petty about the game of baccarat. Now there was fiery curiosity in his eyes, as though he needed to know who this blond opponent was and why Gerry was in league with her. He thought of it as dick-measuring by proxy. Neither man knew the other, but they had become tacit rivals by association with the same beautiful woman.

A seven and a two—a natural nine. A great first hand. Gerry tapped his cards, signifying he didn’t want another. Van der Sands would now have to err on the side of risk.

He drew a nine and a five. A score of four. To get close to nine, he had to risk another card.

The croupier flipped an ace. “Cinq a la banque.”

Gerry nudged Evelyn’s arm before arrogantly tossing his cards face up into the center.

“Monsieur Rappeneau wins.” The croupier retrieved the cards and awarded Gerry his chips.

The brunette congratulated him with an approving nod and a silent clap. Her black elbow-length gloves added to her mystique. Evelyn, boasting a mischievous grin, stroked his thigh under the table, edging dangerously close to his dick. His next sip of Mackison competed with a gasp. He covered his mouth. It was all he could do to stop a mouthful of beverage showering the green baize. Evelyn’s hand had strayed into sensitive territory. He didn’t know whether to yank it away or shove it deeper into his crotch.

“Keep it up,” she whispered in his ear. “And that goes for your winnings, too. Tonight, I’m gonna screw your brains out.”

Jesus Christ! His hold on propriety slipped like an eel through soapy rubber gloves. The casino grew close. Stifling. Evelyn grabbed his crotch and massaged the tip of his erection. He gave another gasp. The brunette watched him through the prism of her glass while she sipped her Malibu. The way those sensuous black gloves contrasted with her white arms and shoulders… Oh, God! He glanced down at Evelyn’s breathtaking tits. His hand shaking, he took a large swig of Mackison. It helped. Only for a moment. Evelyn moved in close and placed her hand on his shoulder. She gave him a look so serious and seductive he felt his erotic self tumbling into her cleavage. Somebody…help.

“Un banco de trois cent mille.”

The Australian answered, “Banco.”

Gerry wrenched himself to his feet. He regained the wherewithal to kiss Evelyn’s cheek before stuttering, “Excuse me. Shan’t be a minute,” to the other startled players. Breathing a long, shivery sigh on his way to the restroom, he tripped on a step and almost bulldozed a waitress into her trolley of snacks.

“Good God.” He locked the men’s room door behind him. “She’s an animal. I’m dating a goddamn wild animal…”

EXCERPT 2:

Evelyn’s self-esteem soared like a rocket into space as she gazed into Gerry’s dark blue eyes. All the need and desire that filled him shone through. She liked him, maybe even more than that if she were honest, and had wanted him from the moment his pompous ass walked into her hotel room. Being with him and initiating sex tonight was the right thing for her to do.

Gerry wrapped an arm around her waist, tugging her closer, as if he sensed how frail she was at that moment.

A sigh escaped her. Damn, his hard chest felt good against her achy boobs, but not as good as his rigid cock nestling into her belly.

“Evie—"

“Don’t talk.” She hadn’t heard that name in a long time, not since her father was murdered.

He nodded and traced his index finger along her bottom lip. She nipped the tip, then sucked it in, tonguing the pad until he groaned.

“Ah, Ev—” He caught her face in both of his hands and kissed her with a passion that ignited her like none other.

His tongue toyed against the seam of her mouth and she willingly opened to welcome him. He delved in, a beautiful taste of wine and herbs, lapping and swirling until her knees trembled. With a regretful sigh, she pulled away.

“Did I do something wrong?”

“Shh. No talking. It’s my little quirk.” She gently tapped his mouth, then took his hand and led him closer to the purple sand. After she stooped, she patted the floor, inviting him to join her. He made short work of sprawling out and laid his arms at his sides.

Evelyn rose up on her knees and combed her hands down his chest, flicking his nipples until they sprang to life. Intrigued by their stiff peaks, she swiped her tongue over her dry lips and leaned into him, licking and sucking the copper-colored discs.

She continued lower to the blond tuft cradling his cock. Gently, she glided her thumb over his swollen head, teasing the drops of pre-cum from the slit to the sensitive underside. Her other hand cupped his balls, rolling the tight sacs with her fingers, taking pleasure in her teasing.

His hips jerked with each light touch. He fisted his hands and dug his heels into the floor. Through hooded eyes, he watched, but did as she had requested and maintained silence.

On a rush of air, she gave his lips a quick peck and eased over him, holding her thighs tight against his lean frame. Heat emanated from his body, soothing and stimulating, a new awareness she longed to experience more than just once.

Her breasts swayed mere inches from his mouth. He stretched up and tweaked her pebbled nipples with his thumbs and index fingers. Cuddling them together, he licked and suckled the sensitive tips, first one, then the other. A deep shiver rocketed through her, increasing the ache low in her belly.

She teased his cock along her nether lips, loving the feel of his hot flesh grazing against her clit. In slow motion, she edged onto his shaft, savoring the inches that penetrated her wet vagina.

He rocked into her, clutching her hips, holding her in place. She locked her hands around his wrists and pulled them away, the need to set the pace paramount.

Time stood still. The only sounds in the room were their pants and grunts as they ground against each other. He stopped mid-thrust, his face set in a grimace.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” he bit out through clenched teeth. “This is so sexy I don’t want to come.”

“I do.” She slapped his hip. “Again and again.”

Rising up on her knees, Evelyn again found her momentum and rode him harder, faster, loving the feel of him pounding inside her. Her breath hitched as he thrust higher, deeper, tapping her womb, the sensation sublime.

Sweat beaded on her forehead. Her body tensed. She gritted her teeth, unable to control the emotion skyrocketing through her...

LINKS:

Buy Link http://amberquill.com/AmberHeat/ClaireDeLune.html

Robert Appleton www.robertappleton.co.uk

Sloane Taylor www.sloanetaylor.com

CLAIRE DE LUNE

Robert Appleton & Sloane Taylor

ISBN-13: 978-1-61124-011-5 (Electronic)

ISBN-13: 978-1-61124-995-8 (Electronic)

Amber Quill Press – Amber Heat

PLEASE WELCOME EROTIC ROMANCE AUTHOR, SLOANE TAYLOR

2010-11-08T05:43:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Readers,

I so honored to have the fantastic, multi-published erotic romance author, Sloane Taylor. Join us today for I know will be some great excerpts....Be sure and leave a comment for a chance to win one of Sloane's super hot romances!

Hi Tabitha,

Thanks for having me out to play today. I appreciate the opportunity to chat with everyone. For a little incentive to bring out lurkers, I’d like to offer a free download of French Tart to one lucky winner. So, let those questions and comments flow!

For those of you who don’t know me, I’m a sensual woman who believes humor and sex are healthy aspects of our everyday lives which carry over into my books.

My stories are set in Europe where the men are all male and the North American women they encounter are both feminine and strong. As a true romantic, my women bring more than lust to their men’s lives.

I was born and raised in Chicago. Studly, my non-husband and mate for life, and I split our time between a home in Illinois and a weekend cottage on the back roads of Indiana…or you can catch up with me as I travel though Europe, researching new material.

Please visit me at http://www.sloanetaylor.com, http://www.myspace.com/sloanetaylor and of course http://www.facebook.com/home.php.

Blurb:

Lingerie designer Samantha Bradley is on the brink of major success. While having the time of her life in Nice she meets sexy Cisco Bernier, a man who turns her heart inside out and makes her body sizzle.

Despite being France’s key criminal prosecutor, Cisco’s success in relationships has been less than zero. When he meets Sam, his staid world goes up in flames.

Their happiness is short lived as their pasts collide. His underhanded mother and her mob-connected father resurface to threaten their future.

Excerpt:

“Do you not think her nipples are larger?” Cisco pointed to the charcoal nude on the young woman’s sketch pad. He looked across the coastline toward the subject in question as the middle-aged woman stooped and spread a towel across the pebbles.

“Perhaps, but it’s really hard to tell at this angle.” The artist swiped a thumb along a black line, softening the bold stroke, and laughed. “Besides, she won’t sit still long enough to get it right.”

She tossed her long black hair across her bare shoulders, and a light scent of honey drifted up to him, clouding his mind.

Cisco yanked his tie from around his neck, grateful for the light breeze off the Mediterranean that cooled his hot skin.

“Maybe if you…” He slipped the thin stick from her long fingers, then squiggled a larger, more intricate circle on the wheat colored paper. “Something like that.”

“Are you an artist?” She glanced up. Her large green eyes reminded him of polished emerald, sharp and clear, and just as exciting. At that moment he would be anything the beautiful American wanted him to be.

Please Welcome the Fabulous Kayden McLeod

2010-10-30T01:18:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Readers,

Today I'm especially proud to make welcome the fabulous author, Kayden McLeod. Be sure and leave a comment for the chance to win one of Kayden's books....

Hi Readers,

Today is the release of my next Erotic Paranormal Romance, Masquerade, published by Silver Publishing for their Halloween themed releases of 2010.

It is also my first shape-shifter novella, featuring werewolves. As some of you may remember from Jezebel’s Article, the Jericho Coven of vampires makes another appearance in this addition to my world. And just to add into the mix, there will also be some zombies wandering around this installment.

Masquerade is set on Halloween night at the Jericho’s All Hallows’ Eve Gala, where Abigail has been charged to plan the party to end all Halloween parties—and that is something she will definitely succeed at by the time she is through…

And now, a bit more about Masquerade

Title: Masquerade

Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance

Buy-Link: http://silverpublishing.info/

Tagline:

What lies behind the façade isn’t always what it seems

Summary:

Abigail claimed the land of North Vancouver as her own, sharing it only with a clan of vampires, the Jericho Coven, who accepted the werewolf into their territory without qualm. Within their numbers is one, Cyrus Jericho; a suave, brooding vampire who isn’t quite as he appeared. He declares Abigail for his own the moment they meet, despite the fact that another werewolf pack is in British Columbia looking to claim Abigail into their midst, no matter what they must do to see that goal complete.

Chapter One

Nightmares always had a way of instilling fear, even in the bravest of folk.

Abigail knew in theory dreams every now and then meant something, but she had no clue how this scene pertained to her, short of giving her a healthy respect of her rambunctious subconscious.

It could have something to do with it being three days short of Halloween, a time when all sorts of monsters came out from under their imposed guises. Possibly to play under the light of the moon at midnight; the witching hour at its peak. And many of them did celebrate this time of year for good reason.

Possibilities of mischief and creating unimaginable havoc would be at its peak of power and potential, though she wouldn’t know much about that.

Abigail wandered a decrepit graveyard; the kind people of today never saw anymore. Complete with unevenly cut hills, gnarled live oaks and chipped gravestones of varying heights and intricacies that made this woman shiver in apprehension.

It seemed her dream-self wasn’t quite as courageous as her wakeful-self. Normally, she felt fear for nothing; not even death. Yet the undeniable urge to cower in terror hung over her head.

Abigail looked down to see she carried a single white rose tipped in fresh blood; a substance her subconscious mind told her Abigail craved. This fact made little sense to her. She wasn’t a vampire, but something else entirely. Though she knew they existed, even acquainted with a few of them. But even so, this fact didn’t faze her terribly much as she continued up the unseen path.

Shrouded in a simple, formless black nightgown and bare feet, the ground littered with rocks cut deeply into her soles. Her thigh brushed upon a roughly hacked-up tombstone, which sliced her clean open. This filled the heavy, humid air with the sickly sweet scent of her life-fluid. She swore her teeth and gums ached painfully, like her canines fought to extend. Why? What…or whom was she feeling?

It surely wasn’t her. It couldn’t be. While many traits of hers were unusual, this was not one of them.

Her gaze darted wearily about. Said live oaks were winter-bare, even though it was merely fall. The branches dipped and reached into the nothingness of the icy cold night, curling toward her in a menacing fashion.

A shuffling and then a moan sent her head up, but her body would not stop to properly assess the situation like she would at any other time. Soon following, the sound of something being ripped or torn gave her a foreboding she could not escape.

Just what lay out there in the darkness, waiting while she was powerless to stop herself from just meandering into its grasp?

A piercing howl not so much different than a wolf’s, but just enough that Abigail knew it wasn’t an everyday animal, sent an excited thrill along her erect spine.

“Even in dreams, you are going crazy. You know that?” she spoke softly, unable to quite bring herself to speak at a normal volume for fear of disturbing the…dead? Why would she care about such things? But alas, her mind remained terrified of what resided below the ground.

The soil began to slope upward, toward an old granite angel with half-extended wings. It’s face, stance, everything about it seemed more sinister than angelic in the shadowy light thrown from the partially cloud-covered stars that lent little comfort to her.

The left arm looked sawed off, but as she grew closer, Abigail realized someone or something had snapped it off; the edges not as clean as they’d appeared at first glance.

Abigail felt unstoppably drawn to the statue, like a magnet which pulled her bruised feet against her will. A trickle of wetness worked down her leg from the wound that throbbed with the rhythm of her heartbeat. Breath came in a ragged, hard won gasps of her terror when thinking about the unseen adversary.

And something did watch her, semi-aware of her presence just as she was of it.

Stopping in front of the statue, she reached with her free hand to touch the face with the saintly features staring out at her in warning.

Abigail wanted to turn back, to go back to where she’d come, though the likelihood of that was too close to nil. The dream had begun after her entrance to this place. Therefore she didn’t know how to get out, which way to turn and run if the need arose to maintain her safety. And her instincts screamed that specific allotment of time fast approached an end.

The guttural howl sounded again, far too close. Near enough that every hair on her body rose to attention at the unnerving sound.

Panic froze Abigail’s breath right there in her lungs. Her blood pounded through her at an alarming pace, giving her a headache and lending a hazy quality to the scene around her.

And then a figure stumbled from behind the nearest trunk, one so incredibly wide, it was no wonder how it hid this man—what she thought to be a man.

The silhouette froze in motion, foot not even touching the dead grass when he saw her standing there, displayed so vulnerably beside the broken angel.

He snarled, gaze moving to the space on the ground at his side, before cutting back to her. His quiescence seeped into Abigail, and she stood at his mercy. Not that there would be any; not from him.

When he moved into the light, she shook in foreign cowardice. Somewhere, deep inside, Abigail knew him. Impossible not to recognize him, even if her mind wouldn’t bring up the facts associated with the creature before her.

He rushed into motion, leaping into the air. Abigail didn’t so much as flinch when he landed in front of her, revealing a masquerade of “human” flesh. For whatever this thing was, it had never been as such. It certainly wasn’t like her.

His long, dull hair lay upon his shoulders saturated with filth and leaves, falling around him in a disarray of stringy, dirty white. His red-rimmed blue eyes focused on Abigail and her alone; flickering with a predatory nature that grated against her own.

She felt like he’d made a silent declaration while they maintained eye-contact, and somehow she knew, he had claimed her in some form. But in which context, she had no idea.

Something within her flared, sparked back into being and reminded her that Abigail would never be weak or compliant. This time wouldn’t be any different, dream or no.

“Abigail,” he called in a shallow voice that grated on her nerves. In the back of her mind, the possessiveness in which he said her name angered her.

Then her eyes strayed to the rounded object in his hand; a gore–stained, severely mangled skull. With little room to doubt that it could be an old bone dug from the ground, she cringed. The only reason she knew this; the chunks of flesh still attached were fresh, the bone beneath luminescent in the moonlight.

Then her gaze moved to the base of the tree, seeing the decapitated corpse there. This entity must have killed and eaten parts of it—stripping it nearly bare before her arrival.

A monster, no less.

The stained clothes were enough evidence of that fact. Its garb wasn’t of this time, but that of olden days long since been seen—parted shirt baring a blood-coated chest, broken up with ties of blue upon ashen flesh holding the material together, tight-fitted pants flaring over grimy, sodden boots.

This thing had made a real mess of its snack, something she would never do. Abigail had seen and done a great many things in her life, but this had never been among them.

Run, damn it, run! she screamed at herself. Make your feet work. Do you wish to end up like its past meal? Turn tail, and get the hell out of here!

The man began to speak in a language she ill understood—or perhaps it did in fact speak English, but its growls garbled it past recognition. But eventually the words became clearer to her.

“Abigail, so beautiful,” he said calmly, not looking in her direction, but at whatever lay behind her.

She backed up until she collided with the nearest tombstone, stupidly pleased about the fact that she could finally move of her own accord, thinking herself safe. Surely now she could escape.

Wrong.

“Mine.” He looked pointedly at her, and she sneered in response.

“I belong to no one,” Abigail snapped. As usual, her tongue got the better of her.

His eyes narrowed on her. “I beg to differ, moj ljub. I want you, and I always get what I want.”

His hypnotic eyes enraptured her, for a moment seeing past the gruesome image he represented, and seeing just the man.

Distraction could be a bitch. In this case, that was a definite.

The dirt burst around underneath Abigail’s feet, spraying up to her knees. She looked to see a bare-bone hand escape the soil and grab her ankle in a painful grip, joints biting into her flesh as the second arm revealed itself from the swirl of dirt.

“Abby, you will never escape me.”

And she screamed.

***

So what did you think? Leave a comment for your chance to win a copy of my last Erotic Paranormal Romance; Deadly Fetishes.

Happy Reading…

Kayden McLeod

http://kaydenmcleod.com/

How To Make Fabric Pumpkins

2010-10-26T05:16:00.001-07:00

My leftover fabric scraps had been piling up, and that means one thing: time to put on the crafty hat. I have two rules when it comes to crafts. 1) it must be easy and quick, 2) it must serve a need.

I needed more Halloween decorations because this is the first year in our big house. And I didn't have large pieces of scrap fabric so it needed to be something small. Right. Mini fabric pumpkins it is. Here's what to do if you want to be cool like me.

Step 1. Gather your materials. You'll need scissors, thread, a needle, fabric, and some kind of stuffing material. It can be poly-fil, rice, or in my case black eyed peas. They are $1 a bag at the grocery store. It's not pictured here, but you'll also need a hot glue gun and a stem. I suggest the next time you are at the grocery store, dig around the bottom of the mini-pumpkin bin for a stem that has broken off. I didn't find one, obviously, that's why it's not in the picture.

As for the fabric, I don't have a recommendation for the size circle you need. Smaller than a dinner plate, but bigger than a coffee saucer. I didn't measure mine because I simply cut the biggest circle I could out of the fabric I had left. The size of the circle is not as critical as you might think. It'll look normal in the end even if your circle is a few inches bigger or smaller than mine.

Step 2. Sew a loose stitch around the edge. Fold over the edge of the circle, about 0.25" to 0.5". Thread your needle and sew long, loose stitches around the entire edge. This does not need to look nice; no one will ever see it.

Step 3. Pull the stitch tight. When you are done sewing around the edge, pull the end of the thread to form a sack. Pour in the stuffing. Don't overstuff...you don't want this to look like a pincushion. The end product looks better if there are some fabric folds, bean bag-ish. When you are done with this step, pull the sack closed like this:

Step 4. Stitch the opening closed. As tight as you can, pull the sack closed. Then sew it closed. It doesn't matter how ugly this is; it's going to be the bottom of the pumpkin.

Step 5. Make the pumpkin grooves. Poke your needle and thread through the center of the pumpkin so it pops out in the center ( or center-ish) on the flip side. This may take a few tries especially if you are using a short needle. Once you are happy with the center position, wrap the thread around the outside of the pumpkin, go back through the seam on the other side, and push it through the pumpkin out the center again. It shouldn't be difficult to find the center hole, but it may take a few tries. Remember to pull it as tight as you can. We're making grooves here people. Do it several more times until your pumpkin looks like this:

This becomes the top of the pumpkin. Now comes the stem. You might've had luck at the grocery store in the pumpkin bin. Hopefully you didn't rip one off of a good pumpkin because that's just WRONG. You could also go to a pumpkin patch and take some off the rotted, unsellable pumpkins. Or you could buy the mini-pumpkins, decorate the house with them, and "borrow" the stems after Halloween has passed. That's the option I chose. I did, however, find one stem at the grocery store bin. I used it on my test pumpkin, like so:

Step 6. Hot glue the stem on. Quit laughing, I know my first pumpkin attempt was a little lumpy.That's why I took pictures of the third pumpkin, to iron out all the manufacturing details. If you follow the steps above, you should have a cute decoration by the end of step 6. Or a tasty dog toy. I suggest putting them high if you have furry creatures around.

Good luck and happy crafting!

Tabitha Shay’s August Newsletter!

2010-08-19T12:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Boy, is it just me, or has summer flown by? Kiddies are back in school and mothers are heaving a sigh of relief…or not!

The big news today is I’ve been working very hard on four different projects, Playing for Keeps, Witch’s Touch, Send Him an Angel and the Gray Mortuary series.

These four series keep me hopping back and forth between them, with Playing for Keeps and Witch’s Touch in the lead. For those of you wondering if I have a new publisher yet, the answer is no, but I haven’t really had time to look, no worries though, I have had offers from other publishing houses for these series, so when the time is right, I don’t think there will be a problem getting these books out to you.

I thought you all might like to read an excerpt from Witch’s Touch. I’ve decided with the monthly newsletter, I’d start including a teaser excerpt from projects I’m working on…enjoy…

EXCERPT/WITCH’S TOUCH/BOOK SIX/SHAY

In the gray gloom surrounding her, unseen by all, an ethereal figure watched, one who carried the Scythe of Death. Although he didn’t understand why, it annoyed him beyond reason that he could not see her features.

Of courses, for him, it was nothing new. He’d never looked upon her face, would never be able to see what she looked like, not in his wraithlike form. He could never appear before her in solid mass. It was forbidden, but he yearned to.

She mourned deeply for Prince Talon…as did he. This death he had not foreseen. He had not chosen the time for Talon to die, nor had King Titan. Another species decided Talon’s fate, and that was something he could not, would not allow. The demon king thought too highly of himself if he thought to do King Titan’s job or his.

Death moved closer in his otherworldly form, the black misty shape of the Reaper, an eerie, unearthly form only his father could see. In his shapeless, vaporous hands, the scythe trembled, as it always did when he approached this female.

Here was the witch he’d been sent to reap. Such an easy target--she had no suspicion he floated overhead, the scythe drawn back, prepared to deliver the death blow that would allow him to reap her soul. Once the scythe was embedded deep inside the Chosen One, there was no escape. The soul was literally hooked and pulled from the body, draining it of its life force. Then Vaddus, god that he was, would step in and take charge.

But Death was drawn to her, and it wasn’t for the right reasons. He lowered the scythe, and to him, if felt as if he was disarming himself, leaving himself vulnerable and naked to the world of magick. He snorted. By the gods, he was Death, there were none more powerful. His was the final word.

He kept his skeletal face concealed within the deep cowl of the death cloak about his shoulders.

What was it about this witch that consumed his thoughts when he was near her? Why did it feel to him that she beckoned him? He could no more resist the sway of her powers or her warmth, than he could appear before her in solid form.

That was it, he thought. He was ice, an empty, heartless creature. Her warmth, the very life in her soul appealed to his frozen heart, but not in the usual way when he was reaping. Death found her utterly mouth-watering, and that was just wrong on so many levels.

He discovered he yearned to get closer, to know her better. It was insanity.

Still, he moved nearer. Her warmth bathed him and built the most unusual hunger inside him. How odd. He’d never felt this strange passion, this restless need or yearning to—no, he couldn’t reap her yet. Not yet. He had to get to know this witch.

What was he thinking? Ridiculous! He wasn’t here so he could get to know the witch better. He could not delay the inevitable for any reason. It was her time, declared by King Titan, and he was here to fulfill the king’s command. He raised the scythe.

She knelt there on the ground, a blurred shadow in shadows. For him, time had no essence, and he knew it was possible to spend centuries simply observing her.

But the impulse to help her—the same compulsion that always pounded him in the gut like an invisible fist when she needed his help—was back, and it roared like a hell beast—interfering with his job.

Giving a ghostly sigh, he released the scythe from its death swing and set it aside. Then he crouched behind her, a shadow form, and slid his arms around her slender waist.

She gasped. “You’re back.”

Yes. I always seem to be stepping in to help you when I shouldn’t.

“You put your words in my head. Always. Do you have no voice?

No voice. No body. No heart.

“I think you jest.”

No. I am not one for foolish banter. Gently, he entwined his fingers with hers. Do not look around. Seek only that which I freely offer you.

Her sultry, sexual scent filled his nostrils, clogged his throat. Her hair tangled with his, somehow managing to twine them together. By the gods, if it was possible for him to die, he thought he just might do so from the sheer pleasure of holding her close once again.

She gasped and tried to pull away.

Listen to me, witch. He tightened his hold, drawing her closer, silently commanding. I will help you this one time to give back a life that was stolen before its time, but do not continue to challenge my right to death. It is what I am, what I shall always be. I will never stop reaping. It is the natural order of things…except for this one time.

“There have been other times,” she whispered, “other times when you have helped me.”

Those were exceptions, also. Do not expect me to continue aiding your defiance. I will not. He knew he sounded gruff, but the witch needed to be frightened of him. He was not and never would be her friend.

“Except, for exceptions?” Her response proved she wasn’t the least fearful of him.

The witch dared tease him? Death smiled. Then frowned. There will be no more exceptions, witch. If someone dies early, then I will let it stand. He injected harshness to his tone, his words. No more interference. Understand?

“I do.”

We aren’t wedding, witch. No need to say it as if you are speaking vows to me.

She tried to turn in his arms, to see his face. He tightened his hold. Do not look upon me. This close, I am…rather scary.

“I think you might be rather kinder than you’d have me know.”

You are wrong. There is nothing kind about me. I am cold. Dark. Eternal. Empty of all emotion. I separate souls from their bodies. I am gruesome. Remember, witch, no more exceptions. No more interference.

He felt her head bob against his chest in acknowledgement, but she wasn’t agreeing, because she immediately made it clear she wasn’t acquiescing. “I can’t make promises I might never keep,” she stated in a soft voice.

Then you will leave me without a choice.

Until next month…Happy Reading Everyone!

Tabs/Jaydyn

FIRST PICTURES OF NEW GREAT GRANDDAUGHTER, ALEXIS

2010-06-20T09:05:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
Here's some of the first pics of my new great granddaughter, Alexis. Shayla's little family is growning.

FIRST PICTURES OF NEW BABY GRANDDAUGHTER, STEVEE!1

2010-06-04T09:02:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Thanks for all your heartfelt warmth and prayers for these past months as we waited for this baby to get here...it's been a difficult time, but as you can see, she's worth it...I know all of you are as anxious to see these pics as I was...Isn't she beautiful??....Enjoy!!
Hugs,

Tabs...Picture One...My great grandson, Shawn, admiring his new Aunt, Stevee...

Pictures two and three..My grandson-in-law, Brian holding his new sister-in-law...and his son Shawn holding Stevee.

My daughter Tammy, with her two year old, Jadee...along with new baby, Stevee.

My daughter-in-law, who is also a Tammy admiring her new niece, Stevee.

My granddaughter, Shayla admiring her new sister, Stevee.

Todays Special Guest Author...

2010-04-16T00:16:00.000-07:00

Hi Readers,

Please make welcome today, my wonderful guest, paranormal romance author, Kayden McLeod...Kayden has something very special to share with all of you...

Dear Readers,

In the past month, my partner and administrator, Brigit Aine and I have launched a new book review site, Siren Book Reviews.

Our goals as an e-book review site are to bring the readers directly to the authors. Our reviewers are people who love the power of the written word, and want to show their appreciation of it in written format. We take books into our keeping, to then convey this passion in reviews and give them voice.

How our system works: after we have received the completed request form, they are uploaded to a database where our readers pick and choose from a variety of genres. Once it is chosen, the owner or administrator will contact the author or publisher, and ask for a copy of the PDF(s), where it is then forwarded to the reviewer.

If a reviewer didn't feel they enjoyed the book as much as someone else might and would score it below a three on our rating-system, they are asked to move on so we can re-offer the book to someone who may appreciate it more. Review requests are kept for three-months, and if left untouched, are removed from the files.

Siren Book Reviews’ philosophy behind this is that if a reviewer is allowed to choose a book that sounds interesting, rather than the site assigning them to reviewers, they will have a better time reading the book.

We are always looking for reviewers, so please feel free to e-mail us at: sirenbookreviews@gmail.com with REVIEWER in the subject-line, and we can send you an informational packet on our policies and procedures.

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Cheers,

Kayden

http://kaydenmcleod.com/

http://kaydenmcleod.blogspot.com/

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Today's Special Guest, Romance Author Lorrie Unites-Struiff

2010-04-05T07:44:00.000-07:00

Please welcome my very special guest today, romance author Lorrie Unites-Struiff.

Hello Tabs,

Thank you for having me here today. I’m honored to appear on such a talented author’s site.

I’m basically a short story writer. Gypsy Crystal is the first long work I have ventured into but it will not be the last. Since writing Gypsy was so much fun, I have a ton of ideas floating around in my brain cells.

How about a woman sheriff who has to deal with androids and find her uncle’s killer?

How about Winnie Krapski, an over middle-age woman who receives the gift of spook-speaking that she doesn’t want, a Call on the Dead (COD) anthology of her funny misadventures?

When I wrote Gypsy Crystal, I wanted a fast moving thriller with a touch of all the right ingredients. I stirred in a bit of gypsy custom and lore, added a dash of romance with a yummy hunk, and then spiced it up with a little paranormal twist.

Let me offer a blurb,

Rita Moldova’s best-kept secret, a crystal amulet that shows her the last image a victim had seen when they died and has helped propel her career as a homicide detective – until prostitutes start dropping.

A ritual killer dubbed the Ripper by the media is terrorizing her town and it’s Rita’s job to help end his killing spree. The problem – Rita’s mystical amulet, passed down through her Roma bloodline, has failed for the first time in memory to do its job – and it’s making it a real bitch for Rita to do hers.

To make matters worse, the FBI has sent in hunky agent, Matt Boulet, to lead the case – and Rita finds herself attracted to him.

When Rita visits her mother – a gifted seer in her own right – and her uncle to glean what she can about the history of the amulet and the lore of their clan, she learns much more than she bargained for, and the truth is too much for her to swallow.

As the investigation continues, Rita learns she can’t deny the lore of the ancients, or her growing feelings for Matt Boulet.

***

Reading is my hobby, writing is my passion.

When my husband and I stroll in the mall and pass a book store, he gives me the evil eye and says, “I’ll give you ten minutes in there.”

What is ten minutes in a candy store? I mean, really?

An hour later, when I emerge, I usually have to hunt the mall for him. I don’t understand why, I was only in the book store for ten minutes, or so it seemed. Time does have a habit of getting away from me when surrounded by the thought that I would like to purchase one of every book I see. Oh, if only the pocketbook could afford it. If I worked in a bookstore, I’d be a threat. I would never bring home a paycheck.

Writing, on the other hand, does keep my visits to the bookstore to a less often occurrence, which my husband is profoundly grateful. He never uses a computer so doesn’t have a clue about online ordering. Shhh! Let’s not tell him. Or about pdf downloads. We’ll keep it our secret while my “To Be Read” pile keeps growing.

Here is an excerpt from Gypsy Crystal I hope you will enjoy.

A piercing scream echoed from the alley between Red’s Bar and The Totem Pole. Adrenaline shot through her veins. Jesus, it’s the Ripper!

Rita yelled for Sully, folded her fingers around the Glock in her purse, and headed toward the mouth of the dark alleyway. She bent low near the entrance, then eased around the corner. A cat yowled, then leaped to the ledge above her head. Rita jerked and flattened her back against the cold bricks of the building. Tiny feet scurried across her shoe. She gasped and kicked out her foot. The glare of headlights behind her swept the overflowing garbage cans, creating a macabre dance of shadow and light against the walls. Brakes squealed. A car door opened. She didn’t turn to look, instead she hugged the rough bricks and slid further into the alley’s depth hoping to spot the Ripper. Quickly, she hunkered down behind a trashcan, the rancid smell of old grease turned her stomach.

“I’m here,” Sully said, crouching behind his open door, the car’s headlights left on. “Wait, Rita. Boulet told us not to go it alone.” Sully tipped a flashlight beam around his door to sweep over the trashcans, the brick walls, and then his light flashed on the green dumpster twenty feet ahead on the left. He lowered the beam to the cement. A woman’s bare legs protruded from behind the large green bin.

Rita’s eyes darted from side to side, watching for any slight movement in the shadows. Nothing. Every nerve in her body strung tight, she bent low to approach the dumpster.

Tires skidded behind Sully’s car. A door opened, and running footsteps approached her. A firm hand folded over her pistol while the other held her arm in a vice-like grip. She yanked away, spun, and looked up into heated eyes. “Don’t ever hold onto my gun arm like that again.”

“Then next time follow orders,” said Matt.

***

I live in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania. Many of the locations I wrote about in Gypsy are copied from the areas around me. I used false names of course, but if anyone from my county reads the book, I’m sure they’ll recognize a few spots.

The quaint old century mall I used is now torn down to the foundation. The river road is real and just as scary as in the book. Not for the faint of heart.

Gypsy Crystal is available at Amazon, Fictionwise and Eternal Press for kindle and e-book readers. Print copies should be available any day now.

All the reviews I have received so far are winners. Check out the reviews and buy sites on my website. http://struiff.wordpress.com/

FIRST REVIEW FOR WITCH'S FIRE

2010-03-28T10:11:00.000-07:00

Hi Readers,
Scope out the great review for Witch's Fire at seriously reviewed....
Huggles,
Tabs
http://seriouslyreviewed.blogspot.com/2010/03/witchs-fire-by-tabitha-shay.html