Paranormal Romance writer Rhonda Print's Author Page

Monette Michaels Cold Day in Hell!

2012-01-28T01:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome Monette and thanks for joining me today. How about we jump right in and you tell us a little about your book.

Cold Day in Hell (just over 121,000 words) is the second book in the Security Specialists International series (following Eye of the Storm). There is also a novella, Stormy Weather Baby, that fits into the time line between Books 1 and 2 and can be downloaded for free from my web site.

Cold Day in Hell begins about six months after the end of Eye and three months after the end of Stormy Weather Baby.

Callie Meyers is a famous fashion model and a Marine brat. She spent her formative years at Camp Lejeune and played with the Walsh kids. When she gets into trouble on a fashion shoot in Cartagena, she calls her friends Keely Walsh-Maddox and Tweeter Walsh for help. Keely’s husband Ren sends Risto Smith (a new recruit in Eye) to Colombia to get Callie out of the country any way he can. And, of course, sparks fly and the two fall in love, but Risto makes the decision he is not good enough for Callie and leaves her once she is safe. Callie is willing to give Risto some time to miss her, but when she hasn’t heard from him in two months and the drug lord who had stalked her is now after her again, she runs to Risto’s home in U.P. Michigan.

As usual with my books, there is a lot of action and lots of romance. Cold Day in Hell will be published on January 30^th by Liquid Silver Books.

What draws you to write your genre and sub genre?

I wrote what I like to read. My favorite authors when I was growing up were Mary Stewart and M.M. Kaye for romantic suspense and writers like Alistair MacLean for adventure. I loved traveling the world in the pages of a book. And I love dashing heroes and spunky heroines.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

Funny you should ask that. I had a fan from Australia e-mail me recently and she told me she was inspired by my books to try her hand at writing and did I have any advice? Here is my response to her:

My best advice is to start with small goals:

1. Get an idea. The idea needs a beginning, a middle, and an end. You don't need to know every single thing that will happen in the beginning, middle, and end, but you do need to know the major plot points. I have free materials on line at Liquid Silver's Forum in the Writing Workshop -- go read my Plot class materials. Here is the link:
http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=268

2. Once you have the story. Write the beginning scene. This is usually when I figure out my characters' names and how they think, act, and talk. Here is the link to my character lessons: http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=291

3. Once you have the beginning the way you like, then just do what I did back when I first began to write -- write one chapter at a time. I would suggest trying to get the whole book written before you go back and rewrite. My lessons on Self-Editing will help with this: http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=249

4. Then have other people read it (I call them beta-readers) and ask them to be honest. All criticism makes you a better writer.

The only way to know if you can write -- is to sit down and do it. And keep doing it. Maybe the first idea doesn't work, but maybe the second one will.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Bond No. 9 Perfume and body creams. My favorite is New York Oud perfume and the New York Body Silk cream. Pricey, but so worth it.

Where can your readers reach you?

monettemichaels@gmail.com I answer all e-mails, but if the person writing me has AOL or another paid e-mail service I have found my responses get kicked back unless the sender has put me on the “accepted” list. I have had my responses kicked back several times with no way of letting the person sending the e-mail know to put me on the accepted or permitted e-mail list. Very frustrating!

Are you working on another book?

Yes, the second book in my sci-fi romance trilogy, Prime Selection. This is Huw and Nadia’s story. Prime Obsession is the first in the trilogy.

Do you work on one project at a time or multiples?

One at a time. However, I have abandoned a book in progress if another one hi-jacks my brain. That is how Cold Day in Hell came about. Risto told me he had his story all done - - and he did. As soon as I started it, it flowed onto the computer screen. I postponed Prime Selection to write Risto’s story.

Is there one particular thing that you find challenging about writing?

Finding the time to write. I write long books. They take time. I also have a part-time day job and a retired husband --- and my son moved back home after getting two degrees and no job and is now going back to college for yet another degree. So, my life is full. LOL I am always a wife and mother first.

Who is your favorite author?

Mary Stewart from the old school of writers.

What are you reading now?

Lisa Marie Rice’s Dangerous series. I know Lisa from when we started out writing. We were both members of the Kiss of Death online chapter of RWA.

Are your characters a reflection on you or anyone you know?

On people I know. LOL Most of my villains are based on a few trial lawyers I had gone up against when I practiced law full-time.

Do you use more than one pen name? Why?

I write under Rae Morgan also. Rae’s books are similar to Monette’s, but are hotter.

What do you do to get in the mood to write?

I clean things up around me. I can’t write in a messy house. And since the two men in my life are messy, I get a lot of cleaning done. Once I have done a load of laundry or swept a floor, I feel as if I have permission to sit in front of the computer and write for awhile. I also play my Writing Song list on my iPod to help keep me in the mood.

What is your favorite thing about writing?

Having loyal fans. I have some of the best.

If you were a supernatural creature, what would you like to be and why?

I’d like to be a paranormal creature who could write fast, so I could make my fans happier more quickly.

How long have you been a writer?

I started writing in 1995. Was published first in e-books in late 1998.

How many books have you written? How many have been published?

All the books I have written have been published. That would be eight books for Rae Morgan and eleven books for Monette Michaels. I am including my shorter works in those numbers.

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

Yep. I always feel as if the love scenes are repetitive. The romance and the build-up to the love scenes are so much more interesting to me.

Are any of your personal experiences reflected in your writing?

Yes, but I can’t tell you because I’d have to kill you. J I based some of my early Monette Michaels’ books on cases I was either involved in or knew about because I consulted on them. I changed most of them enough so the original participants would not ever recognize themselves. My Blind-Sided, my EPPIE winner, was co-written with a woman who had been a whistle-blower, but the book was definitely fiction. We based only a small part of the book on the legal issue with which she was involved. The book was my co-author’s idea but I wrote every blessed word. ;)

How long does it usually take you to write a book?

Depends on how often my husband pops into my office and tells me he is “so lonely.” LOL I wrote Cold Day in Hell’s first draft in four months. It then took me six months to get it to the point of publication. I am a serious self-editor and often will revise four or five times. Cold Day is a long book at 121,000 words. In a good year, I can write two 60-70,000 word books with an odd novella thrown in the mix.

Do you set timelines when your writing or write when the feeling hits you?

I write when the feeling hits. And the feeling hits at odd hours.

Do your characters talk to you?

Yes, that is why I started writing. It got crazy in my head with all the strangers trying to tell me their stories.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

We work as a team.

What is your writing day like once you start a book?

I go back over the last few pages I had just finished, then pick up where I left off. I write until something interrupts me - - like my hubby getting “lonely,” or the cat meowing because I forgot to feed her, or my eyes starting to cross because my blood sugar is low. I usually can write through neck, back, and hand/wrist pain – but those other things I just mentioned usually bring all writing to a halt. These days I can write four or five hours without getting up, but it rarely happens since my husband uses his loneliness to make me move. He’s a doctor and wants me to take breaks - - he is the break enforcer.

Do you promo your backlists when you’re writing a new book, or dedicate your time solely to writing?

I promo when the mood hits me. I should have a schedule. Note to self, put together a regular promo schedule.

How many books do you write in a year?

Lately, since I have been writing almost 100,000 plus word books – one book a year. I used to turn out two more normal sized books a year. I am setting a goal of two written per year - - of course, that doesn’t mean they’ll come out two a year, just that I will get them written. I don’t control the publication schedule.

Thanks, Rhonda for having me here today! I hope your readers will take advantage of the free download of my Security Specialists International novella, Stormy Weather Baby, at my web site: www.monettemichaels.com

Author Monette Michaels Free Novella

2012-01-27T01:00:00.000-08:00

Today I welcome the very talented Monette Michaels to the blog where she is sharing an excerpt from her new book Cold Day in Hell! Read on to find out how to download a FREE Novella STORMY WEATHER BABY!

“SSI could only get the one guy here today. But his back-up team should arrive at a safe house tomorrow on the last day of the photo shoot where we’ll meet them to get me out of the country. I’ve been informed you’ll be going out a different way. The operative will have the details for us when he arrives. The theory is Cruz will concentrate on me—not you and your people.” She leaned closer to Evan. “Don’t be surprised when a guy named Risto Smith arrives and claims to be my husband. Act as if you know him. Keely and I figured even Cruz might chill his jets a bit if he thinks I’m married. I guess this Risto is one mean-looking son of a bitch.”
“Beauty and the Beast? I can see a photo spread for Vogue.” He swept his hands in a broad arc. She could always count on Evan to find the humor in a situation. “By the way, how recent is the marriage?” He grinned at her raised eyebrow. “I’m a method actor, dear one. If you’re recently married, I can be even more excited about seeing the new hubby. If it’s a secret marriage of long-standing then I, as an old and dear friend, would greet Risto more casually.”
“Recent … very recent. We eloped right before I left Chicago, okay? Is that enough inspiration?”
“Perfect … ah, and I think your hubby may have arrived.” A commotion and angry male voices had Evan turning, which allowed her to see past him. “Oh my God, I hope that’s him. He’s…” Evan fluttered a hand over his heart, “stunning. All lines and angles. Rugged masculinity.”
Holy crap! The picture Keely had sent to her cell phone had not done the guy justice. Her make-believe husband had just taken out the two, gorilla-sized thugs and wasn’t even breathing heavily. He bent over and disarmed both men, throwing their weapons over the ancient wall into the sea. Her womb clenched and her lacy thong dampened at his show of strength.
Her pretend husband cast a narrowed glance over the area until he found her tent shelter. Man, he was impressive. She could practically feel his testosterone across the small plaza. Keely hadn’t misrepresented Risto Smith at all—he was capable and dangerous. The tension she’d carried in her shoulders and neck since Cruz had threatened her and her brothers dissipated. She wasn’t alone anymore.
“Sweet baby Jesus, he’s huge.” And all mine. Callie shook off the errant thought. The man didn’t look like the type to belong to anyone but himself. She was just borrowing him for a short time. But damn, why didn’t they grow men like him in Chicago? She reached for Evan who helped her stand. She dropped his hand then walked toward Risto Smith, taking her time to drink him in.
Keely had left some things out of her description. He was broad-shouldered, lean-hipped and far taller than her own five feet, nine inches. His face was all lines and angles with a sharp blade of a nose. Even though his name was Finnish-sounding, he looked to have some Native American blood. His collar-length hair was thick and dark as pitch, wildly layered about his head, giving him a medieval warrior look. His eyes were dark and glittering, focused only on her. She shivered and another small gush of moisture dampened her already soaked panties.
Shaking his head and muttering something she couldn’t hear, he moved toward her in a ground-eating stride. Obviously, she wasn’t moving fast enough to suit him. Her mouth dried as he stalked her. He moved like a jungle cat, aware of all potential danger surrounding him. His demeanor said it all: he’d handle whatever came his way and survive to tell about it. This was a man a woman could rely upon. He could be protective or destructive, depending on his mood.
Stopping a few feet from her, he sent her an imperious look, one dark masculine brow arched. It was a look she recognized, her father had often worn a similar look with her and her brothers; it said “what the fuck are you waiting on?”

Now for the FREE NOVELLA information! Visit this site again tomorrow for a complete interview with Author Monette Michaels and find out how to download her free novella STORMY WEATHER BABY!

Thanks for visiting with us today and I look forward to hearing more about you and your novels tomorrow!

Nightwalker - A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel is now available in print!

2012-01-24T19:52:00.000-08:00

I'm proud to announce that NIGHTWALKER-A LEAH WOLFE SINS NOVEL is now available in print at Createspace and Amazon!

Don't miss the second book in the SINS Series,THE ORDER OF CHAOS Available at Liquid Silver Books, Amazon and a variety of you favorite retailers!

Look for my upcoming release GUARDIAN releasing soon to Liquid Silver Books.

Win a Free Kindle!

2011-10-24T19:24:00.001-07:00

Join me and many talented authors this weekend, October 28 -31st for the Ripped Roarin Halloween Hop for a chance to win a FREE KINDLE!

Win a Free copy of THE ORDER OF CHAOS

2011-10-24T19:22:00.001-07:00

Add yourself as a follower of my new blog at www.RhondaLPrint.com between now and October 31st for a chance to win a free copy of THE ORDER OF CHAOS!

October Treats!

2011-10-18T03:00:00.000-07:00

It's October and time for all kinds of scary things to emerge from the shadows. Myths and Legends intertwine with fear and fantasy to put an edge of anticipation into the very air that we breath.

I'm so glad that in this most enticing of months, the second book of the Leah Wolfe SINS Novel, THE ORDER OF CHAOS has been released. Leah Wolfe begins her first official case with SINS and must once again work with both sexy Ian Nightwalker and her ex-fiance, Joaquin Wildhorse. One man possessed her heart. The other possessed her soul.Both had betrayed her.

She is determined to move on with her life and master her own gifts, including the ability to speak to the souls of the dead. Joaquin Wildhorse was unable to accept her gifts and gave himself to another. Ian Nightwalker was more than willing to soothe her broken heart.

Now, with a prominent member of The Marquis, the vampire ruling council, intent of coming to Leah’s hometown, the threat of Chaos touching everyone she loves brings her down a path to Joaquin and Ian once again.

The Order of Chaos grabs the reader on the first page and leads them on a journey full of romance, action and suspense as it follows Leah into her first official case with SINS. Leah is a strong-willed, kick-ass heroine who has conquered a life full of adversity with grace.

THE ORDER OF CHAOS has been reviewed and awarded 4 stars. You can see the entire review HERE.

Excerpt:

A growl came from deep within him and I had the pleasure of seeing his head fall back in ecstasy. I took him into my mouth and sucked until he tickled the back of my throat. Slowly, so slowly, I retreated, nipping and swirling my tongue around him along the way until my lips reached the delicate tip of him again. I let my tongue play and taste, and then without warning took him down as far as I could go. I delighted in the way he throbbed and pulsed inside me while animalistic moans came from deep within his own body. In that moment, he was mine.
Mine to tease, mine to torment, mine to pleasure.

You can purchase The Order of Chaos HERE, and stop by the authors webpage and blog at www.RhondaLPrint.com for excerpts on The Order of Chaos, Nightwalker, A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel and her soon to be released Guardian.

Happy Reading!

Leah Wolfe SINS Novel Series Trailer

2011-10-15T14:13:00.001-07:00

Digital slideshow made with Smilebox

The Order of Chaos has been reviewed!

2011-10-14T13:40:00.000-07:00

THE ORDER OF CHAOS has been reviewed. Great Minds Thinks Aloud Literary Community and Manic Readers has awarded The Order of Chaos 4 stars.

Purchase The Order of Chaos here:
http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/books/theorderofchaos.htm

...The intrigue of who is friend and foe keeps the reader’s attention, guessing who will come to the rescue and then who will sneak up in the darkness of the night and tries to kill them.

...This story was not the usual supernatural tale it had emotional upheavals and the writer was able to lure this reader to stay up to 2am...

...intrudes of steamy and passion love triangles intertwining in between the pages and sheets...

For the entire review click on this link:
http://greatmindsliterarycommunity.moonfruit.com/#/reviewsinterviews/4555670359/THE-ORDER-OF-CHAOS-BY-RHONDA-L.-PRINT-(REVIEW-BY-SUE-MAHONEY)/229800

Author interview and review of Nightwalker

2011-10-11T11:59:00.000-07:00

The first book in the SINS Novel series, NIGHTWALKER, has been reviewed and author Rhonda L. Print is interviewed today!

Nightwalker Buy Link:
http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/books/nightwalker.htm

The Order of Chaos Buy Link:
http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com/books/theorderofchaos.htm

For chapter excerpts and blurbs, visit the author webpage and blog at www.RhondaLPrint.com All I want and More…

…This BOOK IS AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am praying that since you are all readers, that most of you have heard of Janet Evanovich and her Stephanie Plum series.... That is for the romance world.... Well, move over Janet because Rhonda Print has come into town!

...This is an explosive story... One that will drag you in from the first page till the last page. I hated that I had to go to work the next day... Because I just wanted to keep reading without sleep.

For the complete review and interview click here:

Interview Link:

http://alliwantandmore.blogspot.com/2011/10/smutty-hussy-ms-rhonda-print-get-to.html

Review Link:

http://alliwantandmore.blogspot.com/2011/10/review-nightwalker-leah-wolfe-sins.html

CHAOS HAS ARRIVED!

2011-10-10T19:39:00.000-07:00

The Order of Chaos is now available at Liquid Silver Books!

For a sneak peek visit my new blog and webpage at www.RhondaLPrint.com

Countdown to Chaos!

2011-10-08T18:25:00.000-07:00

THE ORDER OF CHAOS, the second book in the SINS Novel series releases on Monday October 10th at www.LiquidSilverBooks.com Get a sneak peek at my new blog and webpage at www.RhondaLPrint.com

BLURB:

One man possessed her heart. The other possessed her soul.

Both had betrayed her.

Leah Wolfe, a federal agent for SINS, Supernatural Investigations of Non-Human Species is determined to move on with her life and master her own gifts, including the ability to speak to the souls of the dead. Her ex-fiancé, Joaquin Wildhorse, was unable to accept her gifts and gave himself to another. Ian Nightwalker was more than willing to soothe her broken heart.

With a prominent member of The Marquis, the vampire ruling council, intent of coming to Leah’s hometown, the threat of Chaos touching everyone she loves brings her down a path to work with both Joaquin Wildhorse and Ian Nightwalker once again.

The Order of Chaos grabs the reader on the first page and leads them on a journey full of romance, action and suspense as it follows Leah into her first official case with SINS. Leah is a strong-willed, kick-ass heroine who has conquered a life full of adversity with grace.

New WebPage and Blog

2011-09-11T11:35:00.001-07:00

I've combined my web page and blog and you can now find me at www.RhondaLPrint.com
I do hope that you will join me there and sign up to follow my new blog, get updates on upcoming works and don't forget that the second book in the SINS Novel Series, The Order of Chaos is releasing at www.LiquidSilverBooks.com on October 10th.

Thank you for your continued support!

Sandra Sookoo and Marking Time

2011-09-06T03:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome Sandra, thanks for being her today. Why don't you tell us a little about Marking Time. And by the way, I love the cover.

Well, this story is a bit of a time travel and paranormal wrapped into one. My heroine is a modern girl who thinks she's got her life figured out. My hero is a Phoenix at the end of his life--and hope. The heroine is sent back in time to fulfill her life and his.

Blurb:

Ava Lesarris has her life figured out. She has a great job, has accepted her latent wolf shifter identity and is looking forward to climbing the corporate ladder. When a faulty GPS unit leads her to a town called Strange Hollow, she’s in a quandary, even more so when she’s suddenly transported back to the year 1900.
Sam Tremaine is the last of his kind. He’s a phoenix, living in Strange Hollow during what should have been its greatest time—the founding year, but he can’t enjoy it. He’s dying which leaves him with one regret. He’s never found a woman whose spirit is as strong as his own. He wants be remembered but time is running out, not to mention he hasn’t been able to get “it” up for months.
Worlds collide as the past and present come together in Strange Hollow. Ava will need to figure out her purpose while Sam struggles to come to terms with his fate. If they’re lucky, the special town will offer the answers they’re both seeking before the next phase of life begins.

Where were you when you got your first book contract? Who did you tell?

Oh, wow, that was back in November of 2008, three days before Thanksgiving. I was at home, planning for cooking when I received the email from Lyrical Press saying they'd like to publish A Foodie's Guide to Kitchen Magic. I immediately called my husband then texted my sister.

What draws you to write your genre and sub genre?

Well, since Romance is my genre, the lure of the happy ending gets me every time. As for sub-genre, since I write in many different ones, it's the added conflict each one brings. I love being able to solve the puzzle while writing.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

Never give up no matter what anyone tells you. Keep learning the craft. You always want to be moving forward.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Hmm, I guess it's Bare Minerals makeup. I spend way too much money on it. That or movie theatre popcorn.

Where can your readers reach you?

My website: http://www.sandrasookoo.com. From there you can connect with me on Twitter, Facebook or my Believing is Seeing blog

Are you working on another book?

LOL I'm always working on another book! At the time of this interview, I'm writing a historical as well as a reworked fairy tale.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

Ava wanted to climb the corporate ladder, and if she performed well at this gig she had a shot at being promoted. Wasting time with pack politics didn’t leave much time for that. In a way, they’d done her a favor by deciding the next step her life would take. Corner office, executive assistant, expense account, company car, it could all be hers in a few years if she kept her nose to the grindstone. So what if her love life’s roots withered before they could take hold? Somehow, the idea of being some guy’s wife didn’t appeal to her like it had in her twenties. Now, a few days past her thirty-first birthday, she wanted to be on equal footing with a man in a relationship--as long as he wasn’t a wolf or would tell her what to do. Shared responsibilities. Shared domestic duties. Shared bliss.
No man in his right mind would take you up on that offer.
Ava snorted at the dorky way it sounded. Maybe so, but I can still think about it. Besides, I don’t need a man to justify my existence.
Tell me something I don’t know. You have no natural aptitude for choosing a mate. In her head, her wolf counterpart paced in a fair amount of agitation.
“That’s right, wolf-girl.” Ava grinned. Though it must suck to be a wolf with no way to express that side, she wouldn’t want it any other way. Having the wolf inside kept her company, told her that her decisions were sound. “I don’t believe in soul mates.”
And it beat talking to the GPS unit all the time.
You’ll never have offspring at this rate. You excel at wasting perfectly good eggs.
Thanks. “Doesn’t matter. I don’t need them to define me.” Choosing to have a good career over marriage had been a gamble, but it wasn’t like she’d ever wanted to have kids. Somehow the thought of wiping snotty noses and cleaning up messy diapers didn’t appeal to her. Yet, late at night, rolling over in an empty bed with no one to talk with and knowing she’d never hear anyone call her “mommy” held little charm as well. She’d chosen the job, and she loved it. She’d made peace with the fact she’d never shift into her animal. It didn’t make her a reject. It made her unique with a living conscience. “I’m happy with my life.” Meeting people, traveling, learning about new up and coming drugs that could potentially save millions of lives made the sacrifice worth it. If someone took issue with her life, that was their problem.
There’s more to life than a career, human.
“Maybe, but until I find something or someone to convince me of that, this is what we’re doing.” Deliberately shoving thoughts of the future from her mind, she concentrated on the gray strip of road. There were two stops to make, a few people to call on and give the speech for the new “wonder” drug her company was peddling, then she could kick back in her hotel room. It had already been a long day.
“Ten miles to destination on right.” The weird British-accented voice of her GPS device cut into her thoughts.
“What the hell? I’m not anywhere near my destination.” By her estimate, she had a good two hours of driving still to do. She’d pass through Barnard, then continue west, skirting the mountain range and hit the next town without incident. Poking at the navigation unit, she didn’t find anything wrong with the calculations.
Heavy silence reigned in the sedan for long moments. Her wolf even remained quiet, which would have been a relief if Ava hadn’t been concerned at the GPS’s odd behavior. Minutes later, the town of Barnard came and went. The great thing about this area of the country was the coziness of the settlements. If you blinked an eye, you’d miss it, but a new one would always be waiting down the line.
“Arriving at destination.” The electronic voice spoke the statement with firm authority.
“No, I’m not!” All around her, the scenery looked much the same--wooded areas on both sides, broken only by the empty gray ribbon of the roadway. Jabbing a forefinger at the GPS screen, she re-entered her original coordinates. “What part of take me here do you not understand?”
Inside, her wolf growled. Having trouble dominating an electronic device?
Nope, I think I’ve got it.
Ava grinned, but her victory was short-lived as the device said, “Recalculating. Destination ahead.”
Hot anger shot through her body. “I am so getting a refund on this piece of junk.” That was the last time she bought something because the sales guy had a cute smile.
Steep ravines lined both sides of the road, and making a U-turn would be tricky since the curve up ahead meant she’d be doing it blind. Not to mention she wasn’t familiar with the turning radius of the rental car. “Fine, you win. I’ll get my bearings in the next town. While I’m there, I’m throwing your malfunctioning ass in the trash.”
Slowing her speed, she guided the car around the sharp bends. At some point, she passed a tiny, wooden sign saying Welcome to Strange Hollow in blue-painted letters. She rolled her eyes. Really, that was the name of a legitimate town?
Sounds interesting.
“Oh no.” She shook her head even though her wolf couldn’t see. “Every time you say that, something bad happens in my life. The last time was in a bar when that pink drink caught your eye.” Once she’d finished the cocktail, she’d been so drunk off her ass she still wasn’t sure how she’d made it home. “Don’t get any ideas, wolf.” Ava wrapped her fingers tighter around the steering wheel. “We’re not staying.”How did you come up with the title?

Since the story centers around time, it was relatively easy.

Are your characters a reflection on you or anyone you know?

Not in this book. Now, in others…maybe…

What do you do to get in the mood to write?

Really, there is no "getting in the mood". Writing is a job. I do it every day no matter if I "feel" like it or not. I treat writing like an 8-5 job.

What is your favorite thing about writing?

Hearing back from readers and knowing they've loved a book or characters I've created.

Do you have a favorite character from one of you own books? Who and Why?

Hmm, that's a bit difficult, but one of my favorites is Xavier from Vegetarian at Midnight. He's such a tease, but once he set eyes on his heroine, he dogged her until she said yes.

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

Not anymore. When I first started I did. Now, they're just another scene that is an integral part of writing. I like how each one is different according to the characters involved.

Are any of your personal experiences reflected in your writing?

Some are. Especially if I'm writing contemporary. I always laugh at myself first, because after all, humor starts with me.

How long does it usually take you to write a book?

That depends on the book, how complicated the plot is, whether there's a sub-plot, how many characters, my schedule, etc. It's never the same.

Do you characters talk to you?

They do sometimes. Like right now, I've dreamed about my book for several nights in a row. I guess that means it's important LOL

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

I outline each chapter ahead of time as a roadmap for myself. The characters have a lead while writing, and if something major changes, I fix the outline accordingly.

Do you promo your backlists when you’re writing a new book, or dedicate your time solely to writing?

Not really. The best promo for a backlist is getting out there and interacting with folks. I promo new releases but my primary job is writing.

My Blog and Web Page have Moved!

2011-09-03T09:05:00.000-07:00

Follow my NEW blog and webpage at www.RhondaLPrint.com. List yourself as a follower at my new blog www.RhondaLPrint.com between September 3rd-5th and be entered for a chance to win a copy of NIGHTWALKER: A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel and a $5 Amazon Gift Card! And look for THE ORDER OF CHAOS,
The second book in the SINS Novel Series to release at www.LiquidSilverBooks.com on October 4th!

Labor Day Blog Tour!

2011-09-03T00:01:00.001-07:00

New Blog and WebPage Debut!

2011-09-02T23:54:00.001-07:00

Follow my new blog and webpage at www.RhondaLPrint.com. List yourself as a follower at www.RhondaLPrint.com between September 3rd-5th and be entered for a chance to win a copy of NIGHTWALKER: A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel! And look for THE ORDER OF CHAOS,
The second book in the SINS Novel Series to release at www.LiquidSilverBooks.com on October 4th!

Blind with Love - Becca Jameson

2011-08-30T03:00:00.000-07:00

Tell us a little about your newest release, Blind with Love.

Where were you when you got your first book contract? Who did you tell?
I was at home late at night. I woke up my husband!

What draws you to write your genre and sub genre?
I’ve been editing romance for about five years. Stories suddenly just started popping into my head.

Do you have any tips for new writers?
Always have plenty of critique partners!

What is your guilty pleasure?
Red wine and chocolate.

Where can your readers reach you?
beccajameson.com or beccajameson4@aol.com

Are you working on another book?
Several actually

Enjoy an Excerpt from Blind with Love:

He broke the silence. “May I?”
“What?”
“‘See’ you? With my hands. Remember, I said we were going to level the playing field. It’s only fair. After all, it will ease your mind, right?” He was joking. She realized he was teasing her, but she was too tongue tied to do anything but nod her approval.
Chase must have perceived the subtle movement, because he slowly reached up to cup her face in his hands. He meticulously began to run his fingertips over her eyes, her nose, her lips and chin, then up into her hair. “Close your eyes. Just feel.”
The flame flickering in Kristen all evening began to increase into a full bonfire. She’d never wanted a man as much as she wanted Chase right this minute. Her pussy clenched at his words, wetness seeping out to soak her panties. Perhaps she would have an orgasm right here, standing in the kitchen with him running his hands gently through her hair. How embarrassing would that be?
Chase gradually pulled his fingers through her hair and moved on to her shoulders. He kneaded them lightly through the thin layer of her blouse, obviously aware she was extremely tense, and drifted along her arms to her hands. He gathered her fingers and pulled them up to his mouth. Kristen seemed to have no muscular control over them as he kissed them, one at a time. The world came to a halt. Kristen thought she would collapse or faint. And then…God…he sucked the middle finger of her left hand into his mouth and drew it out with a slow “pop”.
Her cream must be running down her legs by now. Why had she thought it was a good idea to wear a skirt tonight? A short skirt.
As if sensing what she was thinking, Chase placed her hands on his shoulders and advanced to wrap his hands around her waist. And then to the small of her back to pull her near. Heat radiated from him. She gripped his shoulders, her fingers digging into his muscular frame. His rock hard erection was now firmly stabbing her stomach and she wanted to touch him. The urge to slide her hands down and grasp him was overwhelming. She tried to retrain herself, warmth making her cheeks burn with need.
When his hands slid across her ass to cup her cheeks, every muscle in her body melted.
“Hmmm. I don’t think Ryan did a very accurate job describing you.” Chase spoke so softly and seductively Kristen could barely hear him. “He didn’t mention how sexy your ass was.” His hands moved even lower and fiddled with the hem of her short skirt before lightly dancing over the backs of her legs, high enough he could have easily touched her sopping panties if he’d wanted. Her sex contracted. She wanted him to touch her so badly that she leaned into him even harder. Her legs were growing weak. “And I believe he left out the part about the miniskirt.” His hands trailed up her back until his thumbs grazed the sides of her breasts. Holding one thumb purposefully against her swelling right globe, he pulled back slightly to drag his other hand along the neckline of her blouse, learning the contours. Fingers lightly brushed the top of her breasts in the low V. Breasts that were feeling fuller by the second, aching to be touched. They poked out, straining to be released from her lace bra, the nipples engorging against the abrasive material. “And I’m sure he didn’t say a word about how tight and provocative your blouse was.”
“Chase?”
“Yes, love.”
“I’ll die if you don’t stop teasing and kiss me.”

How did you come up with the title?
Toyed with several until this one stood out

Do you work on one project at a time or mulitples?
Several, until I’m wrapping one up. Then I concentrate on it alone.

Is there one particular thing that you find challenging about writing?
Making sure what I know in my head gets onto the paper!

Who is your favorite author?
Too many to list, but I’m really enjoying Richelle Mead lately.

What are you reading now?
Nora Roberts

Are your characters a reflection on you or anyone you know?
Not a bit.

Do you use more than one pen name? Why?
No, just one.

What do you do to get in the mood to write?
Read

What is your favorite thing about writing?
Letting a story escape through my fingertips.

If you were a supernatural creature, what would you like to be and why?
Hmmm, never thought about that.

How long have you been a writer?
About a year

How many books have you written? How many have been published?
One published. One coming soon. One submitted. One ready to submit. One on the desktop awaiting completion.

Do you have a favorite character from one of you own books? Who and Why?
Not really.

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?
Nope. I enjoy them.

Are any of your personal experiences reflected in your writing? None.

How long does it usually take you to write a book?
I can’t move once I get going and spend every spare moment finishing a story. A few weeks usually.

Do you set timelines when your writing or write when the feeling hits you?
Some timelines, but life gets in the way.

Do your characters talk to you?
I don’t think so…

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?
They do, for sure. I never quite know what they are going to do.

What is your writing day like once you start a book?
I write in the evening into the night. I sit in the dark usually with just the screen in front of me glowing.

How many books do you write in a year?
Hoping for about four.

Thanks for joining us today Becca and I look forward to reading more of your work!

Beyond the Veil

2011-08-20T15:35:00.001-07:00

Join me August 21st at
http://paranormalauthors.blogspot.com/
where I'm guest blogging on
The Love Triangle.

A Little Taste of Chaos

2011-08-14T18:21:00.001-07:00

The Order of Chaos will be releasing soon at Liquid Silver Books.
Please enjoy a little taste of The Order of Chaos to whet your appetite.

After one particularly long night, I poured myself a glass of wine and filled the tub. As I was about to ease into the rose-scented water, the bathroom light went out. I reached for the gun I had left on the counter before I realized that only the bathroom light had gone out. The hallway was still lit and I could still hear the soft music I’d left playing in the living room. The bulb had to be broken.
Making a mental note to pick up some spare light bulbs tomorrow, I pulled matches out of a drawer and lit the scented candle on the counter. I sank into the tub as the candlelight flickered and the scent of jasmine filled the room. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. That’s when I realized I was no longer alone.

Update on The Order of Chaos

2011-07-28T19:46:00.001-07:00

I am currently in the editing process for the second book of the Leah Wolfe SINS Novel Series. Look for THE ORDER OF CHAOS to be released in the coming months with www.LiquidSilverBooks.com. I have the pleasure of once again, working with my very talented editor Sharis Mayer and the brilliant April Martinez designed the cover.

I will update my blog with any new developments as they arrive.

Thank you and Happy Reading!

Nico Rosso and Pushed to the Limit

2011-07-14T03:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the blog Nico! Why don’t you tell us a little about your book, PUSHED TO THE LIMIT.

-Here’s the blurb:

Teryn Pilander lives in a world of secrets. Trained in espionage, she is a Shadow Corps operative for the Core Army in the Limit War. Her latest mission takes her to the planet Viela, drawn by a communication that the local government captured a Dusk Warrior Officer for questioning. More interesting than the message, though, is the voice delivering it. A little shy, but deep and strong, the masculine voice sparks dormant fires in Teryn. She tells herself that once the mission is over, she might put her spy self away for a bit and live a little as a woman.

Drel Kol has secrets of his own. He is the one who sent the message drawing Teryn and her team to his planet. But he was just following orders and led her into a trap. Now, the woman he spoke with could be in grave danger. Her voice alone is enough to ignite a passion he has never known. Yet he's only a technician. Can he fight against his own government and the Dusk to save her? And will the new bond between Teryn and Drel be torn apart when she learns his secret?

Where were you when you got your first book contract? Who did you tell?

-I was home, hitting ‘refresh’ on my e-mail. The first person I told was my wife, romance author Zoë Archer.

What draws you to write your genre and sub genre?

-My wife writes romance and I was drawn to the genre because of the general hopefulness and honesty within the worlds. There may be a lot for the characters to overcome, but they will succeed and their emotions aren’t treated with any cynicism. I like Sci-fi as a sub-genre because of the creative challenge of constructing a plausible world and action for the characters to inhabit.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

-A lot of people say, “Write what you know.” My tactic is, “Don’t write what you don’t know.” Make sure you’re confident with the genre/characters/research before moving forward and make sure you’re writing something you’d like to read.

What is your guilty pleasure?

-Gear, like: boots, pocket knives and flashlights.

Where can your readers reach you?

-My website is: http://nicorosso.com
-Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/Nico_Rosso
-Tumblr: http://nicorosso.tumblr.com/

Are you working on another book?

-Always. I’ll have a new Limit War story coming from Liquid Silver later this year. My Post-Apocalyptic romance THE LAST NIGHT, will be e-published by Carina early 2012. Meanwhile I’m collecting notes for another Limit War tale as well as more stories in other worlds.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

-Excerpt:
The light of the central star burned bright and lurid onto Capital City. The buildings were thrown into high contrast. Light and shadow. Life and death.

Drel had killed. He had never taken a life in combat before. He had never driven a knife into a creature capable of speech. He killed and now he ran to survive. The city he grew up in was no longer home. It was hard angles and dangerous corners. But at least he knew the streets and alleys. He couldn’t imagine how sinister this all must look to Teryn.

If she was afraid, it didn’t show on her face. Her large eyes took in her environment, breaking it into sectors and assessing each fragment. Drel had never seen such capable focus and determination on anyone’s face. She kept pace with him, her lithe body strong and balanced.

Strange, he had gone to that basement room as her rescuer, but now he felt safer with her at his side. He’d killed the Dusk Warrior; he had to, fighting to survive. Teryn, though, helped him in the aftermath. The world seemed to have frozen around him, as if the Dusk Warrior’s death was his own. Echoing from a great distance, Teryn’s voice broke through. Black clouds shifted away from his vision and he saw her. Her dusky skin was the color of gray shadows. Dark eyes brought him back to the world of the living. You’re also the same man who came here to save me. Her words inspired him back into the fight.

They barely made it out of the archive building with all their limbs. But it still wasn’t safe in the glaring light of Capital City. Drel hurried Teryn through two empty alleys, free from any curious locals. Then the buildings opened up and they were faced with the sprawling central market. Citizens moved about their business, oblivious to the danger Drel felt. If he could get himself and Teryn through this market, they had a clear shot out of the city.

He started to cross the street, but Teryn hooked his arm and pulled him back into the shadows of the alley. He noticed for the first time that her fingernails were the same dark green as her hair. They shined, like polished stones.

“That local security?”

She ventured a quick glance into the street and he followed her gaze. Two patrollers were out, their dark blue uniforms in stark contrast to the natural hues of the clothing worn by people in the market.

“Yes, but they don’t look...” A third security officer joined them. “Nela.”

“Girlfriend?”

“Head of City Security.”

“More trouble than a girlfriend.”

Drel watched Nela talk to the other patrollers. Their posture changed, becoming more watchful.

Teryn interpreted the body language. “They’re definitely on the alert. But it’s still covert, otherwise the head would’ve put out a general communication. They might not even know what they’re looking for.”

“So we can lose ourselves in the market crowds then get out of the city.”

Teryn nodded, liking the plan, then a small frown creased her eyebrows. “If we’re going to keep running, I’ll need some shoes.”

Shocked, Drel looked at her feet. Teryn flexed her toes as proof. Her toenail pigment matched her hair and her fingernails. The intimacy of seeing her exposed feet flushed a heat through Drel. He had never felt so acutely sexual in public before.

Teryn brought him back to the situation. “They took my boots and jacket.”

“You didn’t say anything before.”

She shrugged this off and looked across the street at the market. “Wasn’t important when we were scrambling for our lives.”

Drel’s heart was still pounding from that danger. Her calm amazed him. “There’s an outfitter in the market. We can get you boots and some supplies.”

“Supplies for what?”

“We have to get out of the city. Too many eyes. Only safety is in the Wildlands.”

“Doesn’t sound safe.”

“With me it is.”

Sounds Great! How did you come up with the title?

-The first book in the Limit War was TAKEN TO THE LIMIT, so I wanted to maintain some continuity with that and reflect how the hero, Drel, was pushed into the Limit War and had to discover his own capabilities.

Do you work on one project at a time or mulitples?

-Usually I’ll be writing one story and working on the plot for the next.

Is there one particular thing that you find challenging about writing?

-Right now, the hardest time is trying to eliminate distractions when I’m writing. There can be a lot of things swirling out there, and even warring voices in my head, and I need to shut all that out.

Who is your favorite author?

-My favorite romance author is my wife.

What are you reading now?

-Haven’t had a lot of time to devote to reading lately. I have a bookmark slowly progressing through a copy of Dumas’s The Women’s War right now.

Are your characters a reflection on you or anyone you know?

-I think the characters are aspects of myself. Hero or villain, I try to find something in myself I can put in them to make them feel more real. Not that I’m as heroic or terrible as the characters, but I try to amply my own fragments within them.

Do you use more than one pen name? Why?

-So far, I’ve only been published under the one name, but if I ever publish books in other genres, I’ll use a different name to avoid confusion (don’t know if YA readers should be reaching for the romance stories I write).

What do you do to get in the mood to write?

-I generally like to write first thing in the morning, but if I have a clear day, I’ll try to take it as far as I can with a little music on.

What is your favorite thing about writing?

-I can’t think of just one favorite thing, but I do really enjoy the construction of a story, before the pages start flowing and I have to build the structure so all the moving parts—plot, character, action, tone—work together.

If you were a supernatural creature, what would you like to be and why?

-I think I’d like to be an old-school vampire. I’d dig wearing the cape and turning to mist to slide under doors. And the accent is killer.

How long have you been a writer?

-As long as I can remember, I’ve been creating stories.

How many books have you written? How many have been published?

-I’ve written six novellas, two published now and two pending. I’ve also written three full-length novels in a different genre, but haven’t found a publisher for them yet.

Do you have a favorite character from one of you own books? Who and Why?

-Can’t claim one as a favorite, but the hero from the upcoming Limit War story was a lot of fun to write. He’s a country-boy roughneck soldier with a lot of vinegar in him.

What is the easiest and hardest thing about writing?

-The easiest thing is the early process of generating stories. Little prompts are always spinning out into whole solar systems. The hardest thing is eliminating distractions when it’s time to get to the page.

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

-The most difficulty in love scenes for me is to create something fresh, so each time doesn’t feel too similar to the last one.

Are any of your personal experiences reflected in your writing?

-Fragments from my life and observations sometimes make their way into my writing. The great thing about writing romance is that it’s an opportunity to heal previous heartbreaks, or play out scenarios in a more idealized setting.

How long does it usually take you to write a book?

-It really depends on how many outside influences take me away from the writing. If I can finish a novella in about six weeks, I’m making good time.

Do you set timelines when you’re writing or write when the feeling hits you?

-Unless I have other obligations, I try and get up early and write every morning (at least weekday mornings).

Do your characters talk to you?

-Yes, and I talk back. Often there are whole dialogue exchanges between me and the characters that never make it to the page. It’s almost like an acting improv exercise, where you search out character.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

-I plot extensively before I write, but in that process, I try to motivate the action based on the characters. It’s kind of a collaboration in the early stages. When I’m on pages, I control the story, but keep enough flexibility to adapt if something unexpected happens.

What is your writing day like once you start a book?

-If it’s a free day, I like to get up early, write until I’m hungry, eat, write more, eat again and try and get some daylight. If I’m really flowing, I’ll keep writing in the late afternoon. Evenings are for cooking dinner and catching up on the outside world.

Do you promo your backlists when you’re writing a new book, or dedicate your time solely to writing?

-Not having much of a backlist right now I’d have to say I spend most of my time writing the current book.

How many books do you write in a year?

-I don’t have a reliable count because of outside influences taking my time away. If I can write four or five, I’d be very happy.

Thanks for joining me today Nico! I look forward to reading PUSHED TO THE LIMIT. Okay Readers, it’s your turn. If you have any questions or comments for Nico, feel free to post them below!

Happy Reading!

Mahalia Levey - Inscribed Love

2011-07-07T03:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to the blog Mahalia!

Tell us a little about your latest book, Inscribed Love.

Inscribed Love was inspired by the history of tattooing. I’ve always loved Ink and the cultural meanings behind each image or rite of passage for different cultures.
I decided to write about a hero who has been trapped on a flash that moves around every decade so that he’ll never be freed. A woman stumbles across the image that calls to her and through her ink he gains freedom and wishes to thank her for the gift she’s given him.

Wow! I'm hooked already. What draws you to write your genre and sub genre?

That is easy! I’ve always loved the paranormal genre and sub genres within. From shifter, to demons, to fallen angels, werewolves, etc. There’s a wide canvas to build a world, realm etc.. that is near limitless.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Chocolate is my guilty pleasure. I will have it in any form, shape or fashion.

Where can your readers reach you?

www.mahalialevey.com
www.twitter.com/hales3000
www.facebook.com – search Mahalia Levey
www.mahalia2010.wordpress.com

Are you working on another book?

I am working on Courting Disaster right now!

How did you come up with the title?

I have a clumsy witch who needs help undoing simple mistakes that turn to major disasters and a hero who is always there to help.

Do you work on one project at a time or mulitples?

I work on three or four at the same time. A premise hits me and I jot it down and stick it in a folder and systematically go through and begin working on them a few at a time.

Is there one particular thing that you find challenging about writing?

During the school year is hard with teens but now I have no one home but me so writing is easiest done in silence!

Who is your favorite author?

Sherrilyn Kenyon

Are your characters a reflection on you or anyone you know?

A few are based off of people I’ve met or some strong personalities I’ve seen through the years.

What do you do to get in the mood to write?

I drink coffee and listen to my playlist before writing.

How long have you been a writer?

I’ve been published under two years but writing for four.

How long does it usually take you to write a book?

The time it takes depends on length. If I do a novella a few weeks. I generally write three thousand words a day if not five thousand.

Do you characters talk to you?

They never give me peace. I have a muse who locks them up in a padded psyche room in my mind.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

I never write them, they tell their story and I keep them within bounds.

Do you promo your backlists when you’re writing a new book, or dedicate your time solely to writing?

Yes, I promote the previous book with the current. All else is on my website so I think promoting more of them is unnecessary.

Excerpt for Inscribed Love

Blurb

Jaida Winters strived to be the epitome of a perfect daughter, following every rigid rule without question. Wondering what she missed out on in her strict life,
she's ready for a little independence, and decides it's time to throw caution to the wind. A tattoo is the first step to a new attitude.

Incubus Torquatus Darkblood remains locked within a talisman for the crimes of seducing a witch's charge. His release lies within the ink of a tattoo drawn on
a young woman's skin. When Jaida's pain calls to him, Torq finds he doesn't just want sinful pleasure of the flesh, he wants the woman whose soul cries
freedom.

Excerpt 1

Jaida stared at the computer screen attempting to ignore the burning in her lower back. She thought about calling the parlor, but didn’t want to appear like a wimp. Not only that, she wasn’t sure she was ready to talk to Jay again. She wasn’t stuck up by any means. The way the tattoos on his skin told a story, she’d sit for hours to find out the history of each one.
Unfortunately, attraction like that could land her in more hot water, with her immovable, impossible to please, overbearing parents than she wanted to deal with right now. Her ink was just the first act of her rebellion.
Remember, breaking the mold here.
To top it off, the statistics on the new penile dysfunction drugs didn’t add up. Jaida slipped her reading glasses back onto her face and stared at the data. Next to her eight books filled with graphs, correspondence from team meetings, clinical trials, documents and all pertinent data confirmed what she’d suspected all along. Not every male member for the second trial reported back to the clinicians to fill out the survey. A groan left her mouth. She couldn’t have concrete reports without the surveys. She officially hated her job as head statician for Nelson and Myrtaz Pharmaceuticals. Confidentially she could think of at least a few past lovers who could use some Zephal. She reached for her ruler and dug down her back in an attempt to stop the irritation.
“Jaida?” An intern popped her head in.
“Yes?” Jaida knew she was caught red-handed, but man it itched so damn bad. She slipped the ruler back on her desk and gave the intern her full attention.
“I have the list of contacts you requested this morning. Do you, um, need help with something?”
“Excellent, if you could contact them all for email conformation, I’d appreciate it. I’d like their surveys in my inbox by the end of the week. Make sure to advise them no more Zephal if they can’t follow through on their obligations, as well as no financial reimbursement for their time.” She wiggled in her chair trying to scratch her itch.
“Jaida…” Thomas barged in without proper protocol. “What’s wrong with you?” He approached her desk.
“Nothing but a little itch.” Jaida half growled. “Can’t you people knock and wait for an answer?”
Thomas looked at her back. “Is that blood?”
“Where?”
“On your back.”
“Miriam. Could you please go do what I asked? Thomas can you go back from where you came and give me some peace please?” She finished in exasperation.
“Yes, boss.” Miriam ducked out of the room.
“Thomas…you’re still here.” Jaida fumed.
Thomas clamped his arm on Jaida’s and hauled her out of her chair. With his free hand, he yanked up the back of her dress shirt. “You got a tattoo?”
Jaida slapped his hands away. “Just because we happened to have dated in high school and your parents happen to be friends with mine, doesn’t give you permission to pry into my life, or manhandle me!” She shot him an icy glare and then smoothed her shirt down.
“What’s gotten into you lately? Behavior like that is going to bring down your mother’s wrath.”
So he appeared to be worried. She couldn’t dislike him for that. “One tattoo isn’t the end of the world.” She sighed.
“People like us don’t get tattoos.” He frowned at her.
“I’m a person, not a people and I wanted a tattoo.” Here was the side of Thomas she disliked, the pompous holier–than-thou type.
“You should go see a doctor about your back. I doubt you’re supposed to bleed and please tell me you went to a clean shop.”
“If we weren’t working I’d tell you what I think about you. Of course the place was clean, hell it’s cleaner than that hovel you call an office. Get out. I have work to do.”
“Excuse me Miss, is everything all right?”
Jaida turned to the liquid sex voice that penetrated through her fog of anger. What she saw stole the rest of her tirade. Eyes the color of midnight stared at her, etched in worry. She held her breath and gazed from top to bottom, strong jaw with slight stubble, bulging muscles, tattoos galore, downward her eyes went, landing smack dab on his crotch. Oh mama. She looked up.
“Oh mamma wasn’t what I expected,” the stranger replied.
“Look Mr. T-shirt and tight jeans. The clinical study for Zepal is down the hall in suite B. Make an appointment, they’ll give you a before and after physical including a measurement of your equipment and length of time for elongation,” Thomas interjected and pointed toward the door.
“Zepal? Clinical trial? Elongation.”
“It’s the penile dysfunction study. They measure the penis before and after taking the drugs to plot how long getting happy takes and the lasting effects of the drug wearing off, to make sure there are no adverse side effects before leaving. After that you get a two week trial. They trust as a volunteer you’ll give an accurate accounting of how long you can go before detonation with your partner,” she squeaked.
“I can assure you there is nothing dysfunctional about my penis and I’m straight.” He quirked a brow.
Jaida choked on her words, struck stupid with embarrassment.
“Miss, are you okay?”
“No, she’s not okay. Your people tattooed her and she’s bleeding,” Thomas answered.
“I’m fine really. Thomas get out of my office.” She changed her tone as she addressed mister dark and sinful. “Sir, I don’t know your name, but can I help you?”
“Wait until your parents find out.” Thomas shuffled out of her office.
The pretentious ass had to have the last word. Jaida exhaled a deep breath. Get yourself together girl. “How can I assist you?” Stuck staring again, she blushed and had to look away from his physique before drooling or better yet started stammering like a school girl.
“Let me take a look at your back.”
“Can I at least get a name before you strip my shirt off?” Not that she’d mind removing every article of clothing if he ordered.
“Torquatus, but you can call me Torq.”
“Torq-ate-us.” She bit her tongue, the tip protruding through her lips. “Hmm. I’m not as smooth as you are.”
“I’ve had years of practice.”
When he grinned his dark eyes lightened. “I do suppose you have. Can’t say it’s a name I’ve heard before. Did the tattoo shop send you?”
“Something like that.” Torq raised the back of her shirt and peeled the corners of the taped gauze to the side. “Just a spot of blood, you’ve been scratching.” He frowned at her.
“It itches. Since we’ve confirmed I’m not bleeding to death, who are you and what do you want?”
“Torq, like I said, Miss Winters. As for why I’m here…I’m going to help you.”

www.mahalialevey.com
www.secretcravingspublishing.com

Contest

Win a copy of Inscribed Love
Win some swag.
Details- leave your email address and respond to why you’d like to read this story and I’ll pick two winners, one will receive a pdf copy the other swag.

The Order of Chaos has a cover!

2011-06-30T19:53:00.000-07:00

Many Thanks to the very talented April Martinez for her fantastic work!

Look for The Order of Chaos to be released in the coming months at www.LiquidSilverBooks.com

Guest Author Chastity Bush - KILLER KISSES

2011-06-30T03:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks for being on the blog today! Tell us a little about KILLER KISSES.

My new book Killer Kisses is a very funny, very sexy, paranormal romance about adult novelty storeowner Tina James, and five hundred year old vampire detective Alex Monroe. Here’s a little blurb to get you going. 

The man straddling the Harley was, in one word…juicy.
Adult novelty store owner Tina James loves a good adventure, and the man peering at her through onyx black eyes is the closest thing to adventure she’s ever come across. Unless of course, you count the mugging at gunpoint she experienced only hours earlier.
Leather clad Alex Monroe and his big bike just moved to number one on Tina’s sexiest man alive list, and with every searing kiss, every white hot caress, Tina finds herself living out her wildest fantasies with the man of her dreams.
But is it all too good to be true?
There’s something about Alex, from his unusual habit of only leaving the house at night, to his amazing speed and strength that has Tina wondering what exactly the man she’s falling head over heels for is hiding?

Meeting Tina James is the best thing that’s happened to Alex in the last five hundred years. She’s spunky, sassy, and beyond sexy.
But there’s a problem…or three.
Alex is a vampire, Tina’s a mortal, and he’s searching for a rogue vampire who just so happens to have his sights set on her as his next victim.
Now, not only does Alex have to find a way to tell the woman he loves what he is, he has to catch the killer before he loses her forever.

Where were you when you got your first book contract? Who did you tell?

My first book contract was with a horrid company whom I’m still fighting to get my rights back from. But my second contract was a thrill to receive. I was at home having a pity party (like we all do at times) and opened my email to a contract offer from Solstice Publishing. I told my husband first, as he is my best friend and I tell him everything. While I’m no longer with that company, I still remember how excited I was to see that someone believed in my work as much as I do.

What draws you to write your paranormal/erotic thriller?

I have this crazy love for anything paranormal/supernatural and hot romance. I always have. So writing in that genre was inevitable. Being able to create your own beings, or adjust others like vampire, werewolves, demons, etc. is something I love doing. You can do anything in the paranormal world; I can really let my imagination fly.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

Research! Before you submit to a company or agent, do everything in your power to learn everything you can about that company/person. Unfortunately, there are publishers and agents out there only interested in lining their pockets. Also, write what you love. What’s hot today might not be so tomorrow. And last but not least, READ! I find that nothing gets my imagination rolling faster than reading a good book.

What is your guilty pleasure?

True Blood or Dexter, and Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream. My husband and I always enjoy a pint of ice cream and watch True Blood or Dexter. It’s a lot of fun. 

Where can your readers reach you?

I’m just about everywhere, but here is where I’m most active.

http://www.facebook.com/chastitybush
http://chastitybush.webs.com
http://www.goodreads.com
http://www.twitter.com/chastitybush
http://www.linkedin.com/chastitybush

Are you working on another book?

Always! At the moment I'm working on two books. One is a contemporary romance entitled, The Stranger Next Door that for some crazy reason took a turn toward the Mob, and the other is another paranormal romance entitled Reluctant Angel. Both are still works in progress that I can’t wait to finish.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

Certainly! Here’s a short excerpt from Killer Kisses. Hope you enjoy!

The cold, night air swirled around Alex as he rode down the desolate streets. The motorcycle beneath him rumbled, sending a wave of comfort throughout his tired body. He was a long way from home, and for Alex Monroe the old saying was true; there’s no place like home.
He’d spent the entire night in his hotel room searching through cold case files, going back years and years, looking deeper at unsolved murders, trying his hardest to find something, anything that would lead him in the right direction. He needed to find this murderer and fast. It was only a matter of time before he slipped up and exposed their kind to the entire world, spelling disaster for them all.
Only sparkly, vegetarian vampires appealed to most people nowadays, and he was neither sparkly, nor vegetarian.
Rounding the corner, Alex wondered if his contact inside the precinct would have any new leads to share with him. He doubted it; the local authorities didn’t have a single shred of evidence to help lead them toward who the killer might be. He’d hoped to find some connection between the recent murders and some of the unsolved ones from the past, but so far, he’d hit a dead-end.
The sooner he got this mystery solved, the sooner the women of this city would be safe...from this killer anyway. There would always be others wreaking havoc somewhere, and he would be there to hunt them down.
It was his job. As an Immortal Detective, he would do whatever it took to end the terror rogues caused with their senseless killing.
Pulling next to the curb in front of the police station, a flash of gold caught his attention. Taking a closer look through the dim streetlight, he frowned. A lone woman walked along the desolate sidewalk. Her long, sandy-blonde hair whipped in the breeze as she pulled her lightweight jacket tighter around her small frame.
“What the hell is she doing?”
Didn’t she know there was a killer on the loose? Why would she be walking the streets alone at three o’clock in the morning? Sometimes Alex couldn’t help but wonder how humans had lived so long without being overrun by his—or any other—species.
Before he knew what he was doing, Alex pulled away from the curb and rolled his bike along the street beside the woman. Alex wasn’t your typical knight in shining armor. He wasn’t even what someone would consider valiant. It just wasn’t in his nature, but something inside him wouldn’t let him turn his back on this woman.
“Are you all right?” he called loudly over the rumble of the motorcycle.
Stopping, she turned to face him, and all thought fled his mind at the beauty revealed before him. Large, sea green eyes bore into him as her gaze widened cautiously. Despite her petite stature, her legs, encased in tight, distressed jeans, were long and shapely.
Letting his eyes sweep over her boldly, he took in every inch of her lithe body as though admiring every brushstroke of a masterpiece. Her skin was a flawless, creamy ivory with a pinch of rose color staining her cheeks and nose from the bite of the crisp night air.
“Listen,” she said wearily, “if you’re looking to rob me, you're too late. Someone beat you to it about three hours ago.”
Smiling, Alex shut off his bike.
“Actually, I was just wondering why a beautiful woman such as yourself would be walking alone in the dark when there’s a killer on the loose.”
She is beautiful, he mused.
Stunning even. He’d lived a long time and faced countless women, but could remember none who matched her in beauty. The impulse to reach out and grab her, to pull her against his chest and explore every delectable inch of her, rocketed through him like a bolt of lightning.
Taking a deep breath, Alex struggled to rein in his fast-rising desire.
What had gotten into him? There was one rule he refused to break; never get involved with a mortal. Once they found out his secret, it was all over, but something about this sarcastic little bundle pushed him, urging him to learn more about her.
Just the sight of her held him on a razor’s edge. The silky glide of her voice only added to his desire.
Cocking a brow, she tilted her head. “I didn’t have much say in the matter. Some skuzz-bucket robbed me after I left work. He took my purse, which had everything in it, and the creepy cop who took my statement didn’t offer to give me a ride home or let me call anyone to come pick me up. So, here I am.” She finished, waving her hand in the air with exasperation.
She was feisty, and much to his surprise, he found he liked it. Alex never cared much for loud sarcastic women, but something was different about this one, and he couldn’t fight the feeling that he was supposed to know her. If he’d learned one thing in all of his years, it was to follow his instincts, and at the moment, his instincts were screaming for him to grab hold of this woman and not let go.
He couldn’t let her continue on her way. Not only was it dangerous for her to be out alone this time of night, the knee-high, black leather boots over her jeans looked like they would cripple her before she reached the end of the block.
How the hell do women wear those things?
“What was the cop’s name?”
“Briggs.” She grimaced. “He even tried to give me his number.” She shuddered as though the thought disgusted her, and he chuckled.
He would have a little talk with his contact about Officer Briggs’s unacceptable behavior, but for now, he needed to get her on the back of his bike and her thighs pressed firmly against his hips.
“Let me give you a ride.”
“I’m sorry, but I don’t think so.” She laughed cynically.
“Why not?”
Suppressing a groan, Alex watched as she propped her hands on her wonderfully curved hips.
“Because, I’ve already been mugged tonight and I don’t wish to add raped and murdered to the list.”
Alex couldn’t contain the laughter that burst from his lips.
She’s witty, too.
“What’s so funny?” she snapped irritably.
Calming his laughter, Alex dismounted his bike. “I’m sorry. I have no intention of harming you. My name is Alex Monroe, and I’m here helping the local authorities catch the Monthly Murderer.” He extended his hand to her.
He was also a five-hundred-year-old vampire, but didn’t think she would appreciate that little tidbit of information. She was already baring her claws like a cat backed into a corner, and he’d learned a long time ago it was never good to put stress on an unstable structure.
Based on the night she just described having, one false move and he would catch a swift kick to the balls before she ran away, leaving him to wonder who she was, and aching to see her, and he would ache, he realized.
Just the thought of never seeing her again sent a piercing pain through him. It was absurd, these feelings he was experiencing. He didn’t even know her name and yet, he felt...connected to her somehow.
He watched silently as she gazed at him and some of the wariness left her expression. The wind gusted around them, and her sweet scent flowed over him. She smelled exotic, sweet, and wild. He felt his fangs try to shift, yearning for just a sample of her sweetness. Taking a calming breath, he willed them back into place.
“Can I see some I.D.?”
“Why?” he asked curiously.
“Well, you expect me to believe you're a cop. It would help if you could show some I.D.”
Nodding, he reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a wallet, flipping it open to reveal a silver badge given to him by his contact inside the precinct.
Taking a small step forward, she examined the badge, and then nodded once.
Reaching out cautiously, she shook the proffered hand and cast him a small smile. A frisson of excitement tingled through him at the feel of her small hand cradled within his. Gently, he rubbed his thumb over the inside of her wrist discreetly, savoring the feel of her soft, warm skin.
“I’m Tina James,” she said confidently, before asking, “You’re really a cop?”
A smile tugged at his lips.
“Something like that.”

How did you come up with the title?

Titles are always hard for me to come up with, but the way I pictured Alex to look would easily make a woman swoon, and he’s a vampire. So, Killer Kisses popped into my head. 

Do you work on one project at a time or multiples?

Always multiples. If I were to work on one at a time I’d go crazy.

Is there one particular thing that you find challenging about writing?

Other than coming up with titles ? I’ve always had a slight problem with writers block. If I'm more stressed than usual, or running on little sleep, I get a horrific case of writers block. Fortunately, after a couple of days, and the help of reading a good book, it subsides.

Who is your favorite author?
It’s a toss up between Kresley Cole and Hannah Howell. They’re both so wonderful at making the story real; making you feel as though you lived the story they were telling. I’ve always thought that’s what a great book did, made you feel like it was your own.

What are you reading now?

I'm ashamed to say that my to-be-read pile is empty. I just finished reading Hannah Howell’s Compromised Hearts. It was fantastic. And I’m looking forward to reading Lynsay Sands, The Reluctant Vampire. I have her entire Argeneau Series and love it.

Are your characters a reflection on you or anyone you know?

Some of the heroines in my stories take on some of my sarcasm, or snarky comments, but other than that, that are 100% original.

What is your favorite thing about writing?

That I can do it at home and not have to worry about who’s going to be taking care of our children while I'm working. Being able to work at home is a fantastic thing.

If you were a supernatural creature, what would you like to be and why?

Of course I’d have to say either a Valkyrie from Kresley Cole’s Immortals After Dark series. They’re so completely bad ass that I would have to pick them over anything else. And not to mention, my sarcastic attitude would fit right in? 

How long have you been a writer?

I’ve been writing for a little more than three years now. It’s been a blast and I hope to be able to continue to do so for many more years to come.

How many books have you written? How many have been published?

I’ve written six books in total and all have been published. I have been very blessed in this aspect. It takes a long time, but I’m adamant about my work being published and won’t stop until it is.

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

At first I did. But after writing so many, it’s become a piece of cake. But I have to admit, every now and then when someone mentions how hot a particular scene from one of my books is, I still get a little red in the face.

What is your writing day like once you start a book?

Once I start writing I can’t stop. I’ll drop the kids at school, run any errands I have, then once I’m back home my head is in the computer until time to pick the kids up from school. When my muse takes over, it’s hard to stop.

Do you promo your backlists when you’re writing a new book, or dedicate your time solely to writing?

I write and do promo as much as possible. I’ll do promo in the early morning, and then take over writing. It’s a lot of work, but worth it in the end.

How many books do you write in a year?

I try to write at least two, but this year I’ve been a bit lax, which is why I’m working fast to finish my works in progress and get another book started.

Guest Author Sherri Thomas

2011-06-29T03:00:00.001-07:00

UPDATE: MAD ABOUT MADDIE RELEASES WITH LIQUID SILVER BOOKS ON JULY 18TH!

Today I have Author Sherri Thomas visiting my blog to talk about her debut novel Mad About Maddie. Tell us a little about your book.

Mad About Maddie is my first publication. It is being epublished with Liquid Silver Books (Liquidsilverbooks.com). I will be sure to post the release date as soon as I receive it. Mad About Maddie is a contemporary romance that takes place in Abilene Texas. Here is a blurb of the story.

Blurb:

Madison Preston wants nothing to do with the opposite sex, but finds it difficult to concentrate on her job when a certain cowboy won’t stay out of her way. Even her strong tongue-lashings do nothing more than encourage his sexual innuendoes.

Jake Dutson can’t get enough of Maddie, but he doesn’t need an entanglement with a woman who has a tongue as sharp as a razor. He has other plans and needs to concentrate on buying a home of his own.

It’s going to take a special man to help Maddie overcome her fears of intimacy and abuse. Especially when that man is a hot-blooded, sex-driven cowboy and his very being is dependent upon male-female relations. Nevertheless, Jake takes on the job, but is blown over when he discovers the only place he finds home is in Maddie’s arms.

Now he only has to convince Maddie their love is worth the ride.

Wow! I’m hooked already! It’s on my To-Be-Read List.
Where were you when you got your first book contract? Who did you tell?

I had just arrived home after picking my daughter up from school when I received my first contract. The first person I told was wonderful husband, then my mom, my sisters (I have five), and the rest of our family.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

Don’t give up. Personally it has taken me a lot of years of an on again off again affair with writing. The rejections hurt but try not to take them personally. Use the information as it is meant as constructive criticism. They do make you a stronger author in the end.

That is so true. You have to just keep plugging away and look at rejections as an opportunity to fine tune your manuscript. Where can your readers reach you?

You can find me on facebook at sherrithomasromance or on sherrithomas.blogspot.com or contact me at sherrit4@yahoo.com

Are you working on another book?

Right now I am working on a story called Lost Memories – The Matthew’s Dude Ranch.

Do you have an excerpt of Mad About Maddie that you’d like to share?

(Unedited)

Jake bent forward and rested his forearms on his legs. “Why are you afraid of me?”
“I'm not.”
“I see fear in your eyes each time I get close.”
Maddie shrugged her shoulders and bit her lip. “That's not fear. It’s exhaustion." She faked a yawn.
“Prove it. Come over here.” He patted the seat beside him. “I promise not to bite… Much.”
Not being one to back down from a dare, Maddie retraced her steps. She sank into the cushion next to him.
“Now what?” she asked in a diminutive voice.
“Relax.” His hand made its way to her shoulder. He massaged the taut muscle. “I’m not that bad, honest. I’m not going to force you to do anything you don’t want to do.” His mouth went up in a grin.
“I…” Thunder rolled and lightning lit up the room. Maddie flinched.
“Don’t care for storms either, huh.” He dropped his hand and claimed hers.
She hung her head. This day needed to end. She wanted to scream out her frustrations. "They're okay.”
“You're lying." He chuckled. His thumb caressed her hand. "Between me and mother nature, it’ll be a miracle if you come out of this without an ulcer.”
She grinned at his attempt to calm her. The sincerity in his eyes struck a cord deep within her. Her view dropped to his enticing mouth. She wet her lips.
Jake covered her mouth, taking her breath away. His arms brought her close. Heat traveled at lightning speed through her body. It had been a long time since she let herself relax and get lost in a man’s arms. Despite her protests and arguments, she wanted to be in his embrace, to feel the pressure of his lips on her own.
“Open up for me, darlin’,” he drawled.
She obeyed. The frenzy continued from outside the cabin to inside her body. His tongue met hers. Light flashed behind her lids. He maneuvered her until she lay prone on the couch.
The tension built. She blocked its path as her anxiety settled in.
Jake smoothed her hair with his hands. His mouth made love to her. In and out, his taste buds slid and twirled along hers. He worked his way from her lips to her ear, down her neck. His palm slid the length of her body, branding her skin with his print. Hot breath caressed her cheek, her hair, and settled on the base of her throat. He shifted his weight. The pressure of his hand on the inside of her thigh increased.
She gasped for air, her lungs on fire. Smothering, she clawed her way to reality. Her heart beat in an erratic staccato.
Stop. This is Jake, not Tony. Count, distract yourself.
She demanded her body to be absorbed into his skin, to forget everything else. His hand slid over her breast, up to her collarbone to the pulse on the side of her neck. Her breath came in short, quick puffs. She shoved him away.
“What the hell?” Jake let go and sat up.

What do you do to get in the mood to write?

Plug in my laptop (the battery doesn’t last anymore so portable it is not :) ) and I turn on country music videos- some days this works, others not so much.

How many books have you written? How many have been published?

I have three completed books to date. There is a sequel to Mad About Maddie called Holding On, which has recently been contracted with Liquid Silver Books as well. The two book series is called The Double M Ranch.
I do have another book, Greenhorn Heart, which is under consideration with another publisher (fingers crossed).

Best of Luck with Greenhorn Heart and I’ve just added Holding On to my TBR List too!

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

In the beginning I thought I would have a hard time writing a love scene, but when I approached this part of my story the bedroom scene just clicked. The characters took over and created their own heat.

Do your characters talk to you?

Not when I need them to.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

Mostly the characters until they decide to be closed mouthed then I have to intervene and give them different scenarios. They let me know what one works best.

Thank you for sharing Mad About Maddie with us today and please let us know when you have a release date! I’ll keep my credit card and my Kindle ready for it!

The Magical Return and Serena Shay

2011-06-28T03:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Rhonda, Thanks for having me here today. I like what you’ve done with the place. By the by, what great questions you’ve asked…I could have gone on and on! ~sassy smile~

How long have you been a writer?

Oh I’ve always been a writer, only I didn’t listen to the characters in my head until a few years ago. As a kid I was always playing with my imaginary friends, acting out little stories I’d come up with. As a teen my imaginary friends became more internal and questioning. “What if this happened?” “How can we get such-n-so together with wa-whoz-a-what?” “What if Barry bad guy gets in-between Sheena Lovegood and Dirk Dogooder?” Clearly, I wasn’t listening or I’d have gotten it all down on paper. As an adult, real life hit loud and large, effectively drowning out the voices until a few years ago. When my characters came back, they did it with a vengeance. No more waiting around the green room in my head (which is gorgeous, by the by. They took me on a tour.) Nope, they wanted to tell their stories and I was the conduit. It’s been a heck of a ride so far!

What is your favorite thing about writing?

The surprise. Yep, definitely the surprise. I tend to be both a plotter and a pantser, but no matter how much pre-writing work I do on a story, my characters are always able to surprise me. In A Magical Return, the heroine Emterra has an Other, Irene, living inside of her. In my plotting, Irene was to be motherly. Well, when I started writing, Irene slithered in as sexy as you please and insisted there was nothing motherly in the feelings she had for Emterra. So what’s an author to do but say yes ma’am and write it the way they want it. ~grin~

How many books have you written? How many have been published?

I have four written, two published and about a half a dozen other started. Many times my stories get their start as a flash fiction piece. An idea I’m compelled to get down in a scene, be it from the beginning, middle or end of a story. We’ve been doing a lot of flash fiction over at my group blog Shapeshifter Seductions, about a town by the name of Talbot’s Peak. It’s been a riot. I can be found there on Friday’s giving tours of the town as a frustrated duck shifter, or I’ll be taunting the town’s sexy newspaper editor with a new switch I’ve found. (He has this thing about wood.)

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

Oh gosh no. Those are my favorite scenes to write. LOL When I started to seriously try my hand at writing, none of my characters had a sweet love story to tell. Which was fine by me—I always ended up frustrated when I’d read the closed door romance. I mean, we know they’re not playing chess in there… ~wink~

What draws you to write your genre and sub genre?

The freedom to create a fantasy world of my own liking. I love taking a normal place and time and filling it with unique characters or going the other way, creating a totally abstract world and dropping non-paranormal people into it, just to see how they do!

Do you characters talk to you?

24/7! Ever since the day they got tired of waiting for me to listen and bust down the green room door they’ve been talking to me. Some quite verbally, others in pictures or movie-like clips in my head and some even whisper to me in my dreams. They’ve become like cherished friends. The do quiet down once I’ve written their story though.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

Definitely them. I actually have very little control of the stories I write, which I’ve learned can be a bit dangerous and a whole lot time consuming. I’m more the moderator and the fingers that put the words on the paper.

Do you set timelines when you’re writing or write when the feeling hits you?
Actually, it’s a little bit of both. I try to set timelines and page/word counts, but only when I’m getting down to the end or struggling to keep the characters on task. Other than that, I let my characters tell me when they are ready to go, which they almost always are! ~wink~

Do you have any tips for new writers?

You know, this is probably the same advice they’ve heard from other authors, but write something, be it a story, short story, flash, or blog, everyday. Missing one day can quickly turn into two then three… Also, read! There is so much writing technique you can pick up by reading plus it stimulates the writing mind! The one other word of advice…never be afraid to put your thoughts down on a piece of paper, no one sees it but you until you’re ready to share and you’ll be surprised with what you come up with!

If you were a supernatural creature, what would you like to be and why?

Not really a what, more like who… Anita Blake. Yep, I’m a fan. Human Vampire, Shapeshifter without the change, but ya know, who knows what the future holds, Monster hunter extraordinaire with the love and adoration of a few good men! Pretty darn nifty. ~smile~

Tell us a little about your book.

A Magical Return is the story of love both lost and found in a world brimming with magic if you’re willing to open yourself to it. Check out the blurb below to learn a little more about the characters…

The Loss
Conleth “Cole” Douglas, warlock and vessel, needs a miracle. A destructive force has taken hold of his town and it will take more than just he and his magical Other, Cole, to eradicate the Evil. When an attempt to open his lover, Emterra, to their shared destiny fails, Conleth and Cole take extreme measures to stop the rising darkness. Their only option: take it, and themselves, into another realm.

Emterra “Irene” Azzurra, untapped witch and vessel, has given up on finding her own happy-ever-after. Devastated by the loss of her one and only love she becomes disinterested and remote, closed off from a life without Conleth. Even her job as the mayor of the dying town of Douglasville, MO, fails to sustain her, until she gets a blast from the past…

The Return
He’s back, alive and whole, but he didn’t come alone. The evil they’d hoped to contain in a distant realm has returned with him and is out to finish the job it started. There can be no failure this time, the now middle-aged, Emterra must accept her Other or doom the town to an agonizing death.

Skeptical of his sudden homecoming, Emterra is afraid to hope that his return could be true. She balks at the idea of opening her heart to him again. Especially when he looks like the same young Goth from ten years ago and tries to convince her she’s sharing skin with a magical being.

Can Conleth prove his claims of magic and the Others to be true? Can Emterra allow herself to believe in love and his wild claims? Or will the returning Evil finally swallow this town and all its inhabitants into the deepest realms of hell.

A Magical Return will be available June 20th 2011 at the Liquid Silver Books site. www.liquidsilverbooks.com

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

Prologue

April 1st, 10 years ago
Northern Missouri, outside of Douglasville, in a barren tobacco field
Giant plumes of fire shot into the air, bracketing both the stage and Conleth ‘Cole’ Douglas within their heated embrace. The pyrotechnic display filled the night sky with showers of crackling flames.
An unknown force had let loose a demon within the town of Douglasville. Malevolent was too nice a word for this beast. This evil was a promise maker, a soul sucker, a bloody life taker, and now it was Conleth’s job to send it back to Hell. The only problem--he wasn’t nearly strong enough on his own. For this, he needed Em.
Emterra Azzurra was many things to him, his friend and lover, his soul mate--but right now what he needed the most was the thing inside her. Deep within the body, he knew quite intimately, was a being of magic, a source of goodness, an Other--one who had the ability to work with his own Other to defeat the evil bearing down on them now.
“Terra quod ventus nos queso ye, adeo nos, reperio vestri populous.” ‘Earth and wind we beseech ye, come to us, find your host’.
Together Conleth and his Other called the wind and summoned the earth. The task put a strain on their waning energy, as neither power was theirs to wield. Yet, they could only hope there was enough force to release Emterra’s powers, link her to the earth and air around them, and free her Other.
Magic spiraled through the crowd, seeping into pores and burrowing under skin, looking for its host, looking for Emterra. She was here. He could feel her; his Other had scented her life force as she’d entered the field of battle.
Con knew Emterra had the power to control the wind and a body to embrace the being she carried inside. With practice, she would hone the skill to become truly powerful, a force to be reckoned with, but time was an indulgence neither could afford. He had to encourage her to try, right here and right now. A gentle introduction to her new life was something he could not give her this time as he had in the past.
He prayed she would forgive him.
“Em,” he whispered inside her head. Her thoughts were a confused jumble of fears and questions. She didn’t yet believe in psychic links as Conleth did, but this was the only way he could find her in the mass of humanity about to be used as food.
“How can I...in my head...Con.” Her emotions were scattered, but in her newly cop-like way, she’d locked them deep down inside. “What are you doing?”
“Something good, my love, nothing that can hurt you.” He hoped. “But I need you to trust me.”
“Con, I’ve always trusted you, but...but this time, you’ve gone too far...please stop.”
“Do you remember our last concert, Em?”
He flashed a vision of them into her mind, taking her to a past where they soared into the eclectic world of musical freedoms and expressions, while around them, drugs and liquor flowed freely. Amid the rabid throng, they too screamed and beat their hands in the air to the squeal of the electric guitar and each bang on the skins of the drum.
“Don’t, please don’t make me remember this, Con.”
Her mental plea broke his heart. A heart that had always and would always beat for her and her alone. Unfortunately, his love and devotion to her were not enough to keep him from what he had to do, no matter how painful it may be.
“I’m sorry, my love, but you must remember. I need, no--we--need you to remember..”.
He sent her another vision. This time it was a memory of those magically successful moments when she had relaxed and let go enough for her Other to come close. She stood in the past, her hands high above her head as he’d cupped her breasts from behind. They swayed to the ballad screeching from the massive speakers. Nipples hardened to painful points between his fingers and thumbs as he squeezed them. He held her tight as she shook, he knew, from the shocking power filling her body.
“Say it, Em,” he’d whispered. “Say the words.”
“Vicis congelo,” she screamed into the sky above them. The Latin words for ‘time freeze’ rang clearly through the air.
Everything slowed. The band, being further away from them, moved as if they were stuck in a muddy bog, starting and stopping, their sounds low and slurred. The fans surrounding them, however, froze in pre- and post-head-banging modes. They stood amidst the previous chaos, enthralled by the strength of this new gift.
“No!”
A steel door ended the vision with a finality that worried him. They were back in the present, with evil all around them, and again she squashed the emotions and thoughts inside her. “Em, please...”
“No Con, that vision is nothing more than a drug-induced nightmare of a time best forgotten. It wasn’t real...”
Conleth’s Other began demanding release. “It was very real, Em, and what you did then, controlling time, is what we need now.”
“Stop it, Con, just stop this. The time for foolish pranks and pretending to be magical are over--it’s time to grow up!”
Goddess, he thought as he was pushed back into the background of his mind, exchanging consciousness with his Other--they were screwed.

Where can your readers reach you?

I can be found at www.serenashay.com or mostly at my blog http://serenashay.blogspot.com/

I’m also a regular at my group blog Shapeshifter Seductions http://shapeshifterseductions.blogspot.com/

Thanks for being with us today Serena!

Summer Solstice Blog Hop

2011-06-21T11:32:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy to be a part of the Summer Solstice Blog Tour! In case you just stumbled upon the hop or if you get bumped off and need to hop back on, the link is HERE. Go through the hop, visit with the many talented authors and enter to win books and prizes, including a Nook! I've also included an excerpt from THE ORDER OF CHAOS, the second book in the SINS Novel Series soon to be released with Liquid Silver Books.

I hope you enjoy my short story on Zoe Redner and her private wishes.

Zoe let out a silent breath, hoping that Jessie hadn’t already seen right through her. The ‘darling’ act made Zoe more nauseated each time she used it. She’d come on this excursion for one reason and one reason only. She prayed that once she threw her handful of dirt on the Solstice fire and made her wish that finally she’d be normal.

Being psychic was not a gift. It was a curse.

Zoe had no interest in knowing the secrets of everyone’s lives but she could feel the absolute truth coming from Jessie Bolton. She really hadn’t felt any of the strange energy flowing around Crimson Dawn.

Martin Santorini, or “Doctor” as his arrogant self insisted on being called was barely hanging on to the grant that allowed him to continue his research into the meteorite that he was sure would finally prove the existence of other life in space; although his benefactors believed that his research was for much more benign studies. And what the good doctor hadn’t spent on ‘research’ had been squandered away with his gambling addiction.

Corey Thurston was hoping to forget his last bust that had gone horribly wrong, resulting in the death of an innocent bystander. Lindee secretly lusted after Will Treadworth and Phineas was a closet cross-dresser. On top of all that there was an enormous amount of sexual energy coming from the quiet John P. Smith and Jessie. If ever there was love-at-first-sight, this must be it. The only one who didn’t set off her psychic bells was Carla Hildebrand whose mind appeared as blank as she seemed to be.

All of these were things Zoe didn’t want to know and if her wish came true, she’d be blessedly normal by time the sun rose.

Normal. Hell she didn't even know what that would mean anymore. To be able to date a man and not know his every dirty little secret. Although dating wasn't so much a problem anymore since she'd learned to block the energy coming from people around her. As long as there was no intense emotion involved. Intense emotion like those invoked during sex.

Gosh, she couldn't even think about the last time she'd had sex. All the scattered thoughts flowing through Dirk's mind while she rode him. He seemed so sexy and caring on the outside but his mind gave away just how selfish and vile he was. He considered himself a player and she was just another notch on his belt.

Maybe she'd be rid of her psychic curse and finally be able to feel again, to love again. Maybe she could even soothe the wounds of the sexy copy, Corey Thurston.

That night, as she stood before the Solstice fire and threw her wish upon the flames, it was Corey that she thought of. Corey she yearned to run her tongue along his scarred cheek and soothe the wounds that haunted his soul.

The fire burst into streaks of white hot sparks so intense that she fell backward to the ground, only stopped by the strong arms of the law. As she looked into Corey's concerned face she saw nothing of his inside turmoil. She dropped her carefully constructed walls to be sure and still, all she felt, all she saw, was him. She smiled slightly as he lifted her upright, supporting her weight as easily as if she was a child and bringing his mouth so close to hers that she could feel the warmth of his breath.

"Are you okay?" His words feathered against her mouth.

"Oh yes." She sighed. "I'm great!" I hope you enjoyed it! Continue on the tour to read more from the very talented authors along the way.

Sign yourself up as a follower and leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of my paranormal romance, Nightwalker, A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel and look for the second book in the SINS Novel series, The Order of Chaos, to be released in the coming months! You can read and excerpt below.

Thanks again and have a very steamy summer!

EXCERPT from THE ORDER OF CHAOS. COMING SOON TO LIQUIDSILVERBOOKS.COM

He turned me around and melted me with a look that skimmed me from the top of my head to the toes of the stiletto heels that I still wore. I started to kick the shoes off but he stopped me. “Leave those on.” His voice grew deeper, sultry.
I did a little spin that would make any runway model proud. He grabbed me and tossed me onto the bed while we laughed. “Yes, definitely keep the shoes on.”
“You owe me.” I reminded him.
He stripped off my jeans and flipped me onto my stomach. He began caressing my neck, my shoulders, then further south; alternating between gentle sweeps of his hands and a firmer kneading motion that sprang Goosebumps from my body. I felt the bra strap come undone before his hands slid to the flimsy piece of elastic of my panties. His fingers trailed them down my legs until he removed them completely. Then those magic fingers began caressing their way up my legs, teasing the tender skin on the back of my knees and inner thighs. I heard the Velcro of my holster tear away and felt the weight of my pistol lift off my waist. “Nightstand.” He murmured knowing that I felt more secure if I knew where my weapons were. Then his mouth blazed molten lava on my thighs and I forgot all about weapons

Shapeshifter Seductions Interviews Rhonda L. Print

2011-06-16T03:00:00.001-07:00

I'll be over at Shapeshifters Seduction on Thursday June 16th talking about my upcoming release, THE ORDER OF CHAOS. Stop on by http://shapeshifterseductions.blogspot.com/today and read an excerpt and find out how to enter my contest running now through June 26th!

Happy Reading!

Guest Author Anya Winter and The Master

2011-06-16T03:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the blog Anya and thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to talk about your latest book, The Master. Tell us a little about THE MASTER.

A semi-naked photo, taken almost ten years, is about to ruin everything for Madison Pearce. With a glass of champagne in hand, Madison is about to call her recent event planning job a success, until she is pulled her into a private room and a past secret resurfaces. Along with the lover, she never expected to see again…

Where were you when you got your first book contract?

I was stuck in traffic on the way home. I remember honking the horn, I was so excited!

Who did you tell?

Who didn’t I tell! LOL. I remember sending my CP an email using way too many exclamation points. I tried calling my husband but the phone was busy so I ended up crying. Just a little bit.

What draws you to write your genre and sub genre?

I have fun writing erotic romance. It’s getting to the HEA that is fun. I like to find ways to immerse real life into fantasy. And of course I have to include chocolate in all of my stories. Some how, some where it’s there.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

Believe in yourself. You are the only one who can write your book. No one else. If you don’t believe in yourself, then no one else will either.

What is your guilty pleasure?

I’d say chocolate but I refuse to feel guilty about that :)

I agree. Chocolate is nothing to feel guilty about!

Where can your readers reach you?

www.steenaholmes.com is my main site. I have a home page for Anya Winter at www.anyawinter.tumblr.com

Are you working on another book?

Sure am. I’m finding that the second story for publication however is harder to write than the first one was.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

“You’ve done well for yourself,” she broke eye contact with him and took a sip of her champagne. If she didn’t eat something soon, all this alcohol would go to her head and she wouldn’t be responsible for her actions. Her hand trembled at the thought.
“I only took what I had and made it prosper. You, on the other hand, started from scratch and excelled.” Anderson downed his champagne in one gulp before he stepped back and walked to his desk, her hand still captured in his. She had no choice but to follow.

“How do you know about what I have or haven’t done?” A warm, tingling sensation filled her as the alcohol took hold. She enjoyed the warmth. She knew her eyes gleamed when Anderson reached for a chocolate-covered strawberry and held it out to her.

“You may have walked out of my life, but I didn’t walk out of yours.”
She parted her lips and waited for him to feed her the treat. Shivers ran along her body when the decadent chocolate dessert filled her mouth. She stared into his eyes, saw the naked desire he felt for her. The ache that started in her stomach spread lower.

“You kept tabs on me?” The melted chocolate on her tongue tasted delicious. With the combination of strawberry and champagne, Madison could have cared less about what happened in the past. If she believed she was in heaven before, then she’d just stepped through the pearly gates.

Anderson shrugged his shoulder as he took a bite of a strawberry. Flakes of chocolate broke off as he bit down and fell onto his shirt. Madison reached up to wipe the chocolate away and found her finger on his shirt button instead. With a flick of her wrist, it opened and wisps of his dark curly hair appeared. Madison gulped.

“Of course, I watched the little mouse become a lioness as she faced the world and made it her own. I’ve been quite proud of you, of the woman you’ve become.” His hand caressed her cheek.

“Then you will know that this woman misses the touch of her Master.” A small pool of moisture gathered between her thighs. She’d missed his touch, his magic.

Wow! Is it hot in here? Chocolate and Champagne? I'm hooked already!

How did you come up with the title?

I had just finished reading 7 Day Loan by Tiffany Reisz when a story came to me. I wanted something with a BDSM flavor and immediately The Master came to me.

Do you work on one project at a time or mulitples?

I have 4 on the go right now. Once I hit the 5K mark, it seems like that’s when my brain starts to think of other story ideas.

Is there one particular thing that you find challenging about writing?

Finding the time to write. I’m sure that’s one most writers can admit to.

Who is your favorite author?

I have so many right now. Tiffany Reisz is one - you totally should follow her on twitter. Joey Hill is another favorite right now. I will always love Elizabeth Mansfield. Always.

What are you reading now?

I just finished The Barn Dance by Camryn Rhys. I’m about to start on book 4 of the Shadowland series by Cherise Sinclair (another favorite author btw)

Are your characters a reflection on you or anyone you know?

I’d lie if I said no :) There’s always a little bit of me in my heroines. In one form or another - whether its a past experience, a hope/desire or just her love of chocolate.

Do you use more than one pen name? Why?

I only have one. Anya Winter. I also enjoy writing contemporary fiction and didn’t want to confuse the two. Plus in my previous life my husband and I were pastors and realize that it might be a tad bit difficult for some of our friends to understand. I won’t hide who I am or what I write, but I try to be sensitive to their feelings.

What do you do to get in the mood to write?

Drink coffee and let my husband talk dirty to me for a while :) That always seems to get the creative juices flowing.

What is your favorite thing about writing?

Knowing that I found something I can do. Something I’m good at. Something that is only for me.

If you were a supernatural creature, what would you like to be and why?

Something that would make me sensual, skinny and able to eat all the chocolate I want.

How long have you been a writer?

Since 2005. Wow - that seems so long ago!

How many books have you written? How many have been published?

I’ve written 6 and had two published.

Do you have a favorite character from one of you own books? Who and Why?

Jack. He’s in my contemporary fiction that I’m in the middle of querying. He’s an older man who comes across as gruff, but he’s a teddy bear inside.

What is the easiest and hardest thing about writing?

Easiest is coming up with ideas. Hardest is finding the words to express them.

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

Not at all. In fact, I tend to write two to three loves scenes before I’m finished the first chapter. Once I know who my characters are I find that by placing them in a scene where they are most vulnerable shows me things I would never have seen. Plus it shows me far my characters need to travel to get to this scene. I love it. It’s odd - but it works for me.

Are any of your personal experiences reflected in your writing?

Of course :) But what? Not telling :)

How long does it usually take you to write a book?

That really depends. The Master, a novella, took a month to write and a month to edit (only because I edited at work - shhhh). My last novel took 6 months and 6 months to edit. The one before that took 2 years.

Do you set timelines when your writing or write when the feeling hits you?

I have three kids, a dog and a husband. Plus I work full time. I can’t carve in timelines.

Do you characters talk to you?

No, but they do come alive in my dreams.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

Oh, they do. I never really understood that until recently. Fighting with your character can get down right dirty. They always seem to win too. Which sucks.

What is your writing day like once you start a book?

I try to get an hour or so a night, but usually it’s weekends when I write. Unless (shhh...) its really slow at work, and then I’ll try to write 1K or so during the day.

Do you promo your backlists when you’re writing a new book, or dedicate your time solely to writing?

I think we have to do both. I don’t much of a backlist to promote, but I think it will become necessary.

How many books do you write in a year?

Novels - 1 a year. Novella’s - I’m hoping to write 4-6 a year.

You can buy THE MASTER by Anya Winter at www.LiquidSilverBooks.com.

The Order of Chaos

2011-06-05T00:26:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited that the second book in the SINS Novel Series will be released in the ccoming months at LiquidSilverBooks.com
The Order of Chaos continues the story of Leah Wolfe, Ian Nightwalker and Joaquin Wildhorse.

Please enjoy an unedited excerpt.

He turned me around and melted me with a look that skimmed me from the top of my head to the toes of the stiletto heels that I still wore. I started to kick the shoes off but he stopped me. “Leave those on.” His voice grew deeper, sultry.
I did a little spin that would make any runway model proud. He grabbed me and tossed me onto the bed while we laughed. “Yes, definitely keep the shoes on.”
“You owe me.” I reminded him.
He stripped off my jeans and flipped me onto my stomach. He began caressing my neck, my shoulders, then further south; alternating between gentle sweeps of his hands and a firmer kneading motion that sprang Goosebumps from my body. I felt the bra strap come undone before his hands slid to the flimsy piece of elastic of my panties. His fingers trailed them down my legs until he removed them completely. Then those magic fingers began caressing their way up my legs, teasing the tender skin on the back of my knees and inner thighs. I heard the Velcro of my holster tear away and felt the weight of my pistol lift off my waist. “Nightstand.” He murmured knowing that I felt more secure if I knew where my weapons were. Then his mouth blazed molten lava on my thighs and I forgot all about weapons.

Barnes & Noble Nook Books

2011-05-31T22:11:00.001-07:00

NIGHTWALKER, A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel is now also available at Barnes&Noble. Check it out HERE!

Free Link

2011-05-20T20:57:00.000-07:00

On the Valentines Day Blog Hop many talented authors got together and created individual stories based on one single photograph. Click on this link and enjoy the stories! http://justromance.me/planning/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Valentine-Blog-Hop.pdf

SEx Blog

2011-05-20T15:44:00.000-07:00

Today's my day on the SEx blog and I've put a blurb (unedited) of the second book in the Leah Wolfe SINS Novel Series, the first book being Nightwalker.

Enjoy a blurb from The Order of Chaos, coming soon with Liquid Silver Books!

A Stranger Within

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

Welcome to the blog and thanks so much for taking the time to join me. Tell us a little about your book.

A Stranger Within is a paranormal romance about a young woman who’s the human host of a powerful wolf demon. Throughout the novel, she struggles with fierce desires and bloodlust and wonders whether those feelings are her own or the wolf’s. She also falls in love with the man who’s assigned to guard her, but she’s afraid to act on those feelings, because when she gets aroused, she loses control over her inner wolf and starts to transform.

It’s a story about identity, about the shadow self, about coming to terms with the animal inside all of us.

What draws you to write paranormal fiction?

I’ve always liked paranormal fiction, as well as fantasy and sci-fi. All fiction is a “what if” scenario, and the speculative fiction genres take that a step further, into the realm of the unreal or things that might be. It allows for a lot of flexibility, too. You can create any kind of story and characters you want, as long as it makes sense on its own terms.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

Don’t give up. It might be a cliché, but it’s true. For a writer, the road to success is long and bumpy, and it takes perseverance to get there. Also, have fun! Write what you love, not what you think you “should” be writing. If you’re not enjoying it, the readers probably won’t either.

What is your own guilty pleasure?

I love erotic romance—both writing and reading it—but I try not to feel guilty about my pleasures. So I guess it’s a guilt-free pleasure.

Where can your readers reach you?

You can e-mail me at sekuiro@gmail.com. I love hearing back from my readers.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

I dreamed again that night.

I stood outside a dark cell in the stone labyrinth, staring in through the bars. Heavy breathing echoed through the silence. “Is someone there?” I called, my voice echoing in the stillness.

Bloodshot yellow eyes opened in the darkness, and I gave a start. “Hi, babe,” said a deep, raspy voice.

My pulse thrummed in my throat. “Who are you?” I asked, though I already knew.

He chuckled, a sound like metal scraping against stone. “I’m the other you. The real you.”

“No.” Panting, I shook my head in frantic denial. “You’re not me. You’re just the thing locked inside me.”

“Oh really?” Those yellow eyes stared into mine.

My hands squeezed into fists, nails digging into the meat of my palms. “Just because you’re in my head, that doesn’t make you me. I’m not anything like you.”

“Don’t be so sure.” Sharp teeth gleamed in a grin. “You and I, we actually have a lot in common. I should know. I know you better than anyone in the world. All the others—they only see what you show them. But I know what’s slithering around in that deep dark pit at the bottom of your mind. I know all the things you’re afraid to tell anyone else.”

I wanted to run away, but I couldn’t. Something rooted my feet to the spot. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Oh, but you do. You just won’t admit it, not even to yourself. But I know. Deep down, you’re a real animal.”

“I’m not an animal!”

He laughed. Claws scraped against the bars, throwing off sparks. “You don’t want me here, do you? You hate being just a cage. So let me out. You have the key.”

“No!” I squeezed my eyes shut, like a child thinking that something I couldn’t see couldn’t hurt me. Of course, I knew better.

“Come on, babe.” His voice turned low and smooth. Seductive. “All you have to do is open this door. Don’t you ever wonder what it would be like to just let go?”

I backed away, hands pressed over my ears. I stumbled—

—and all at once, the dream shifted. It was dark, and I was in bed, and there was someone with me. Warm, rough hands were wrapped around my wrists, pinning them down. A hard body was atop mine, and someone was moving inside me, iron heat thrusting into the melting warmth between my thighs. I arched upward, hungry for more. I didn’t know who it was. I didn’t care. I just wanted to keep fucking. Each thrust sent ripples of heat through my body, making me weak with pleasure. A mouth was on my breast, sucking my nipple. It was too hard—it almost hurt—but at the same time, it wasn’t enough.

“You see?” a voice in my head whispered. It sounded like my own. “We’re all animals.”

* * * *

My eyes snapped open, and I sat bolt upright in bed, panting.
Outside the window, wind whistled through the pines. Shadows and moonlight rippled across the ceiling as the treetops lashed.

I flopped back onto the bed and lay there, my heart thumping against my ribs. Sweat trickled down my neck. What the hell had that been all about? Somehow, the last part of the dream had disturbed me the most—even though it had felt good. Because it felt good. My whole body still tingled, and my skin felt acutely, almost painfully sensitive. I touched one nipple and felt it, stiff and aching, through the thin cotton of my oversized pajama t-shirt.

After a minute or two, I took a deep, shaky breath, climbed out of bed and dressed. My fingers trembled so badly I could hardly button up my jeans. I pulled on an old, faded t-shirt, walked to the window and peered out. A storm was brewing. Dark clouds blotted out the stars and moon.

I thought about Fenrir’s eyes—those crazed, bloodshot yellow eyes—and shuddered. Then I remembered the hard male body moving atop mine, the long, thick cock buried inside me. I shook my head. Fenrir was just trying to fuck with my mind...literally. Maybe when Dr. Gray trained me to control the wolf, she could teach me some way to stop the dreams. But something in me balked at the idea of telling her—or anyone—about that particular dream. It was too personal, too weird.

My sex still ached distractingly. I had a feeling if I slipped a finger inside myself, I’d find myself wet. After that, there was no way I’d be able to get back to sleep. Maybe I’d go for a walk. Right now, any distraction from my thoughts would be welcome.

I know everyone is dying to read more so here is the BUY LINK.

Do you work on one project at a time or multiples?

Usually I work on several things at once. If I’m having trouble with a story, I find it helps to take a break from it and work on something else for awhile. Of course, this can lead to juggling a lot of different projects.

Are your characters a reflection on you or anyone you know?

All my characters have something of me in them, but only in a vague sense. I’ve never based characters directly on myself or anyone I know. I’d feel really weird writing about people from my own life.

If you were a supernatural creature, what would you like to be and why?
Probably some kind of shapeshifter. I like the idea of being able to experience the world through an animal’s senses.

What is the easiest and hardest thing about writing?

I get more ideas than I could ever possibly write. Coming up with ideas is the easy part. It takes so much time and effort to turn that vision into a reality. Choosing which ideas to spend that time and effort on is always difficult, because there’s so much I want to do and never enough time.

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

Writing sex is easy, but writing an interesting, convincing love scene can be very difficult. If a writer doesn’t develop her characters enough, the sex can come across as mechanical and dull: insert tab A into slot B, et cetera. Bringing the characters’ emotions and personality into the scene is crucial, and what makes it worthwhile for the readers.

The Order of Chaos

2011-05-09T22:09:00.001-07:00

I am extremely proud to announce that I have just signed a contract with Liquid Silver Books to publish the second book of the Leah Wolfe SINS Novel Series.

Look for THE ORDER OF CHAOS to be released in the coming months and check back here and at my web page www.RhondaLPrint.com for blurbs, excerpts and updates!

If you haven't yet read the first book: NIGHTWALKER, A LEAH WOLFE SINS NOVEL you can buy it at Liquid Silver Books , Amazon.com or Fictionwise

Guest Author Sherri Thomas

2011-05-03T14:27:00.000-07:00

Stop by tomorrow and visit with Guest Author Sherri Thomas!

Spotlight

2011-05-03T07:29:00.001-07:00

Find out what's next for Leah Wolfe, Ian Nightwalker and Joaquin Wildhorse. Author Rhonda L. Print is Spotlighted all this week at http://www.chicksofcharacterization.blogspot.com/

Stop by and say hi!

The Order of Chaos

2011-05-02T10:35:00.000-07:00

Please enjoy an unedited excerpt from The Order of Chaos, the second book in The SINS Novel series.

He turned me around and melted me with a look that skimmed me from the top of my head to the toes of the stiletto heels that I still wore. I started to kick the shoes off but he stopped me. “Leave those on.” His voice grew deeper, sultry.
I did a little spin that would make any runway model proud. He grabbed me and tossed me onto the bed while we laughed. “Yes, definitely keep the shoes on.”
“You owe me.” I reminded him.
He stripped off my jeans and flipped me onto my stomach. He began caressing my neck, my shoulders, then further south; alternating between gentle sweeps of his hands and a firmer kneading motion that sprang Goosebumps from my body. I felt the bra strap come undone before his hands slid to the flimsy piece of elastic of my panties. His fingers trailed them down my legs until he removed them completely. Then those magic fingers began caressing their way up my legs, teasing the tender skin on the back of my knees and inner thighs. I heard the Velcro of my holster tear away and felt the weight of my pistol lift off my waist.

“Nightstand.” He murmured knowing that I felt more secure if I knew where my weapons were.

Then his mouth blazed molten lava on my thighs and I forgot all about weapons.

Sequel to Nightwalker, A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel

2011-04-27T22:01:00.001-07:00

I'm please to announce that I have completed the sequel to Nightwalker, A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel. It is tentatively titled The Order of Chaos. I will post excerpts in upcoming blog posts!

Best Paranormal Romance of 2010

2011-04-04T22:34:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled that Nightwalker, A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel was nominated by The Romance Reviews for the Best Paranormal Romance of 2010.

J.R. Ward won the honor but I am humbled to be in such good company!

Its not too late...

2011-03-23T22:00:00.001-07:00

Now that I have your attention...

AHEM! Look Down..no,no,no. Not down there, down here.

NOW THAT I HAVE YOUR ATTENTION...

It's not too late to vote!

Click on http://www.theromancereviews.com/viewbooksreview.php?bookid=212

Nightwalker is nominated for The Best Paranormal Romance of 2010 by The Romance Reviews!

Got your Green on?

2011-03-16T23:00:00.000-07:00

I wanted to write an Irish romance almost from the moment I knew I wanted to write. Below, please enjoy the beginning...

The large glass sign cast a green glow to the empty sidewalk that she stood upon. “Dublin’s” was written in beautiful script inside shamrock and punctuated by a colorful pot of gold medallion. Apprehension slithered through me as I asked myself if I should have let them know in advance that I was coming home.

Home.

The word itself chased away some of the chill remaining from the rain that still peppered the rooftops and I pulled the silk scarf I wore a little tighter. It had been far too long since I’d been home.

The flat in Manhattan had more amenities than I could use along with a panoramic view of Central Park. It was everything I’d thought I wanted.

After my third book shot to the top of the New York Times Best Seller List and dominated it for sixteen weeks; my publisher convinced me to move to America where I would have better access to publicize the fourth novel. I jumped at the chance to leave the small town in Ireland that I’d grown up in and see more of the world I’d only seen on television, and the healthy bonus my publisher dangled in front of me cemented the deal. In less than a month I had packed my favorite belongings and settled into the Manhattan apartment my publisher had rented on my behalf.
The energy of her new city had excited me almost immediately; the quiet streets of Dunhar were replaced by the noise of traffic, sirens and the constant hum of people moving about New York. People I passed no longer lifted a hand in greeting with a friendly smile, but brushed past me as if I didn’t exist. I’d known everyone in Dunhar and even the tourist’s that flocked to our town for it’s old world charm and legendary Dublin’s Irish Pub, gave a friendly greeting to all they passed.

In New York, I found complete anonymity. I no longer had to worry about the Delaney sisters spreading gossip at lightening speed each time I had slipped up. I could walk through the local shops and browse to my hearts content and not be told how much I resembled Ma. And in the afternoons, I could wrap myself up in my work before heading to the clubs with my newfound friends.

It was what I’d dreamed of.

I was wrong.

I’d quickly grown tired of buildings that blocked the view of the sun and sky, pavement that covered the silky green grass that begged me to take off my shoes as I walked upon it. It’s been eighteen months since I’d dared walk anywhere without shoes.

What good was a gourmet kitchen if you had no one to cook a decent Irish stew for? I had no use for a lavish guest bedroom when there would be no one to visit me. My father had a pub to run and while he’d given me his blessing when I left, I knew that I took part of his heart along with me. I was his only family, my mother having died too many years ago, leaving a scar on both our hearts.

My thumb found the fingernail I’d nervously chewed on during the ride over from the airport. It wasn’t my father that I was nervous about seeing. Aidan Dailey still worked side by side with Da.

Aidan who had tugged on my pony tails as a wee lass and taught me to ride a bike in the street in front my father’s pub. Aidan who had saved me from the ocean when Bradley Mahoney dared me to swim a lap during a storm and my stubborn nature would not permit me to back down. Bradley had suffered a broken nose for that stunt.
I had earned my first kiss. Aidan had plucked me from the ocean and wrapped me in his own shirt. He was so relieved that I was okay that the kiss had caught us both by surprise.

It was the first of many kisses and more delicious things to follow that we had shared. Aidan had been my first for many things. Aidan had been my only.

I closed my eyes, sucked in a breath and pulled open the door to Dublin’s. The scent of fresh baked bread, and beer mixed with the heady smell of the fire that roared in the fireplace stationed in the center of the room. Music surrounded me like a warm blanket. A mixture of traditional tunes and modern rock flowed throughout the room like a fine whiskey and I smiled to myself knowing that Aidan had finally gotten my father to agree updating the music.

Opening my eyes, I let them wander around the room taking in the familiarity of it all. George and Al sat in their usual corner of the bar, whiskey splaying out of their glasses and they motioned with their hands in probably another good-hearted disagreement. Molly Flanagan expertly carried a tray full of food and green beer through the bustling crowd toward a table full of tourist. “Why is it green?” a young woman squealed as she took her first sip of the local brew Dublin’s was famous for. The other patrons at her table ignored her as they watched the throngs of dancers sway to the tune being played by this week’s band, The Blarney Stones. I cringed when I read their name. While my Da had always strived to make his customer’s happy, he believed that Dublin’s had a responsibility to remain authentic. I shook my head knowing that Aidan had not only argued for the type of music but the name of the band. I’m sure my father had a few choice words about The Blarney Stones. Being an Irishman to the bones he had no trouble speaking his mind, whether you wanted to hear it or not. Apparently a trait I shared with him.

Da stood at the bar, towel in hand as he joined the conversation with George and Al. At the other side of the bar stood Aidan, his back to me and bending over to heft a fresh keg off the floor. My heart stuttered as the muscles of his back and arms strained against the tight shirt he wore, reminding me of just how much I missed the feel of those muscles bunching under my touch as Aidan hovered most of his weight above me, one stray dark wave of hair falling over his eyes. Heat shot down to my center igniting a flame I thought had long since been extinguished
.
Aidan turned then, brushing that same strand of dark hair out of his eyes. Those eyes widened, allowing the blue to make them shine like the midnight sky. His smile lit his face and he hopped over the bar in once graceful movement, his leather boots barely skimming the top of the bar.

“Sweet Mary!” He called as he weaved around the throng of people. A dozen heads turned toward me then and my Da rushed over, shock and pleasure fighting for space on his face. He beat Aidan to me, tears of joy glistened in his eyelashes. “My baby has finally come home.” He placed a kiss on each cheek before leaving one on my lips.

Aidan pulled me from Da and spun me to face him. He lifted me off my feet and swirled me around as I looked down into his smiling eyes. He slid me back down toward the floor and the friction between our bodies fueled that passionate fire even further. Before I could let out the breath I’d been holding, Aidan stole it straight from my lips in a mind numbing kiss. “Don’t look so surprised Lassie. Can’t a man kiss his own wife?” Aidan grinned.

I shook my head slowly, swallowing the growing lump in my throat. “We’re not married, Aidan. Not anymore.”

He arched one eyebrow in challenge. “And did your fancy high-priced lawyer send you the final papers?”

My jaw dropped as I racked my brain for the answer. I sent the paperwork back to my attorney’s office. I never expected a reply from them. “I-I signed the papers.” I stammered.

“I didn’t.” And with that Aidan turned on his heel and walked back behind the bar.

I hope you enjoyed this. I'll keep you posted on the completion of this book and others on this blog and my webpage, www.RhondaLPrint.com

Just in case you've just stumbled upon the bloghop or lost your way on the tour, you can hop back on HERE for a chance to win a Free Kindle 3!

Happy St. Paddy's Day!

Anyone want a drink? How 'bout a toast to the Irish!

Tucson Festival of Books!

2011-03-12T07:06:00.001-08:00

I'm so excited! Today I'll be at the Tucson Festival of Books at the University of Arizona Campus from 11:45-1:15 in Tent 1. I have giveaways and am offering a chance to win a free copy of Nightwalker!

The Professor's Assistant - Bren Christopher

2011-03-11T03:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations on your book! Why don’t you tell us a little about it?

Thanks, Rhonda. The Professor’s Assistant was just published by Liquid Silver Books. It’s a male/male romance with a lot of science fiction elements, but takes place in alternate universe Victorian London. It was a lot of fun to research and write in that era. But even though there are a lot of science fiction and adventure elements, it is still primarily a romance. I confess it’s written just the way I like to read my romances – with lots of hot sex to go along with the romance!

Did you find the love scenes difficult to write?

Not at all. I know that some writers are concerned they will become too mechanical because they have written so many love scenes. But I’m still a fairly new author, so I don’t see that as an issue; not yet anyway. The love scenes are all about the emotion, not the mechanics. If the characters are well developed and have distinct personalities, then that should help to make their love scenes unique. Who knows, though – I may change my tune after writing another dozen or so of those scenes.

What draws you to write erotic romance?

I’ve always read mysteries and science fiction. I tried to read some romances, but was never a big fan until I discovered erotic romance. I didn’t want to stop at the bedroom door. Sex is a very important part of any intimate relationship and I always felt as if I were missing part of the story.

Are you working on another book?

I’ve just submitted a male/male contemporary romantic suspense, so I’m waiting with fingers crossed to hear back about that one. In the meantime, I’ve started two different books. One is a contemporary romance and the other is a romance in a futuristic science fiction setting. I have to sit down and decide which one to work on. I know some writers who work on several projects at once, but I find I really need to be able to concentrate on one. That doesn’t mean I’m not constantly jotting down ideas for other stories all the time. If I don’t write an idea down when I think of it, then it’s just gone out of my head – a very frustrating feeling. But I can really only focus on writing one novel at a time.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

Just don’t give up. That first rejection letter can be very discouraging, especially when it’s one of those form rejection letters with no explanation for the rejection. If you get a rejection, the odds are you submitted that piece a couple of months ago and it took that long for the publisher to review your work and give you the rejection. So what did you do during the time you were waiting to hear back? Hopefully writing some more, reading books on writing, maybe taking some workshops. Take what you’ve learned, do some editing, and send the manuscript off to a different publisher. You may be surprised at the result.

Where can your readers reach you?

I would love to chat with folks on my blog at brenchristopher.com, or drop by my Facebook page.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

Here is a little more detail, along with a link to the full Chapter One excerpt. I hope you enjoy it!

The Professor’s Assistant

Lured by rumors of a momentous invention, Agent Julian Blake steps into the New York Gate and emerges outside London.
It is the same year, 1885, but an earth parallel to his own. The two timelines are almost identical, but the slight variation is enough to threaten his mission as it includes an attitude toward same-sex attraction that is less than accepting.
He never expected that difference to pose a problem. Julian has an important mission to complete; a mission with far-reaching consequences not only across the alternate earths, but into their pasts. For the momentous invention is a working time machine.
And the inventor’s assistant is a beautiful, auburn-haired young man named Daniel who causes Julian to disregard the Department rules he has lived by for so long.
But there are others interested in the professor’s new invention, and when tragedy strikes, the professor’s lovely assistant might just be the only person left with the knowledge to recreate the device.
Now Daniel is a target, and Julian is in a race to protect him and retrieve the knowledge of the time machine from those who would misuse it.

Note: Explicit male/male sex. Read Chapter One

Votes Please!

2011-03-08T09:37:00.000-08:00

I feel so honored!

Nightwalker has been nominated by TRR reviewers for Best in Paranormal Romance for 2010 at The Romance Reviews!

If you have a chance, stop by and vote!

http://www.theromancereviews.com/bookvote.php

Tucson Festival of Books!

2011-03-08T08:05:00.000-08:00

I am very excited to be part of the Tucson Festval of Books this year. The festival is located at The University of Arizona and both parking and admission is free! I will be at the East Tent on Saturday March 12th from
11:45am - 1:15pm.

More info is available at www.tucsonfestivalofbooks.org
Hope to see you there!

Chandler Regional Hospital

2011-03-02T18:48:00.001-08:00

A great big Thank You to the doctors, nurses and staff at Chandler Regional Hospital for the excellent care I received during my unexpected stay there. Especially Steph and John, two of the nurses who took exceptional care of me!

Free Stuff!

2011-02-28T23:58:00.001-08:00

Stop by CoffeeTime Romance and More for a chance to win some FREE STUFF!

http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/ContestPage.html

RoseMary Gunn and Hearts A Plenty

2011-02-23T03:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations on your book! Why don’t you tell us a little about it.

Thank you so much for inviting me, Rhonda! It’s a pleasure to be here. Hearts A Plenty is a contemporary novella set in the small town of Awry. (Yes, that’s awry … as in the way things have a tendency to go.) We meet Claire and Jared and get a glimpse of their unique relationship, then things really heat up when Mark arrives in town. I should probably mention that Mark is Claire’s stepbrother. They met when their parents married the previous year.

Where were you when you got your first book contract? Who did you tell?

I was at home when I received notice that Liquid Silver Books wanted to publish Open Proposal. I was almost too sick with nerves to open the Email and read it. [grin] For about three seconds! Though it was late, I called my best friend. There was a lot of screaming and happy dancing around the living room.

What genre do you write?

I write romance … the hot stuff. [wink] I’ve written many different types of things over the years, but finally found my true passion in erotic romance. Everyone deserves to be with someone they love, there should always be smokin’ hot sex, and [for me anyway] a Happily Ever After is absolutely necessary. Erotic romance covers all three of these requirements. So far, I have two published contemporaries, Open Proposal and Hearts A Plenty. Both can be found at my Website. There are a total of four books planned for the Vintage Love Series, of which Hearts A Plenty is the first. As with most writers, there’s a warehouse full of characters pacing around in my head, patiently waiting (and not so patiently, in some cases) for their shot at the keyboard.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

Keep writing … even when you don’t feel like it. And believe me, there will be days when you don’t feel like it. We each have stories tumbling around in our heads, but the only way to share them is to keep that appointment at the keyboard each day.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Oh my. Noun or verb? [laughing] I absolutely love old stuff. That’s one of the reasons Masons Salvage came to be in Hearts A Plenty. I tend to be somewhat of a packrat though and much of what I scavenge is of little use to anyone but me. I scour garage sales for old junk: photo frames, tattered books, wooden boxes, vintage linens, houseware items … and tables! My most guilty pleasure though is almost embarrassing to admit to, simply because it’s such a go-go-go world we live in … I love napping. Yes, curling up beneath a nice soft blanket for a half an hour or so is absolute bliss for me.

Where can your readers reach you?

Ooooh, I love to hear from readers! My Website www.rosemarygunn.com has links to all the usual places: E-mail, Blogger, Facebook, and Goodreads.

Are you working on another book?

Yes! I’m currently working on Tattered Hearts, the next book in the Vintage Love Series. Tattered Hearts will tell the story of Stella and Eric, two troubled individuals you’ll meet in Hearts A Plenty.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

You bet! I would love to introduce your readers to the adventurous lovers of Hearts A Plenty, Claire and Jared. Thank you again for having me here, Rhonda!

Readers who leave a comment stating what Claire drops on the floor will be entered to win a copy of my previous release, Open Proposal. (Be sure to include an Email address in the comment so I can send it to the winner.)

This is Chapter One of Hearts A Plenty:

“Of course, I’ll be there. It’s been weeks since I’ve seen you and Daddy and I’m dying to see Jill’s baby.”
Claire Mason wandered around the condo as she talked on the phone, a habit that Jared Young had enjoyed watching during their many months of dating. He listened as she made her way through the kitchen into the living room then back down the hall toward the entry. He was surprised the floor didn’t show signs of wear from the circular route she typically traveled.
As part owner of an architectural salvage business, Claire’s place had an eclectic blend of many different eras. The brass and stained-glass light from the early twentieth century in the entrance illuminated a rough strip of barn wood lined with metal hooks and the jackets hanging there. In the hallway leading to the entry, an antique cherry-picking ladder attached horizontally to the wall provided the perfect complement for the black-and-white family photos showcased between the rungs.
The furnishings she used to create her home provided some insight about her quirky tastes and passion for her business, but none of it really mattered to Jared. He’d been content in the office/living area above his restaurant before more of his stuff started staying at her place than his.
From his vantage point he could see her reflection in the ornate floor mirror by the front door. Strain pulled at her soft lips and tightened the delicate curve of her jaw. Her sadness tugged at his heart. She stopped and leaned her forehead against the wall. The lavender in the old metal newspaper box that was secured upright usually helped to calm her, but it wasn’t working tonight. She closed her eyes and shook her head, maybe hoping some of her denial to whatever Dorothy was saying would travel telepathically through the phone.
Jared had been stretched out on the vintage sofa watching Claire as she talked to her stepmother, but now went to her and wrapped his arms around her waist from behind. She wore a white tailored blouse with a classy high neck, unbuttoned just enough to hint at the delicious upper curves of her breasts, and a tan wool skirt hugged her hips. Just like her home decor, it made no difference to him what she wore; she always looked beautiful. She’d worked at the shop and attended a meeting today, but her T-shirts and jeans got him riled up as well. He’d like it if she’d wear just nothing at all. He didn’t have any problem wrapping his body around her curves and keeping her warm on the cold Michigan nights.
She settled against him. He heard and felt the steadying breath she took, knowing she drew strength from his touch. He had a feeling about where the topic had turned, which was confirmed by her next words.
“And Mark knows of this proposed arrangement?” Jared smoothed his hands up her sides over her ribs, feeling the soft shiver of awareness flutter through her. His own body tensed as he waited for Claire’s side of the conversation. He cupped the fullness of her breasts, rubbing the hard peaks through the crisp cotton and thin lace covering them.
“I realize that we’re family, Dorothy.” Emphasis obviously being repeated, though Claire’s words had a breathless quality that Dorothy Pierce-Mason’s had probably lacked. “That doesn’t necessarily mean that Mark is going to feel comfortable staying at my place while he’s here.” Another silence as Claire listened. Jared’s heart had settled somewhere in his throat as his mind quickly sifted through the many possibilities in the near future.
Jared took his time unbuttoning the blouse, dragging his fingers along the deep cleft of her breasts, wanting to run his tongue along the heated, scented flesh. Claire wore a sexy musk perfume that never failed to wind him up. He could feel the heavy thumping of her heart against his hand and also where his chest rested against her back. His own heartbeat kept pace with hers.
One by one, he released the small steel buttons. She lifted her hips slightly, finding the hard line of his cock and thrusting gently back against him.
Jared was always ready for Claire. She walked into the room and his senses heightened even as his brain ceased to function.
As he brushed her heavy mass of rich mahogany waves away from her neck, and feathered his lips against the rapid pulse beating there, he thanked whatever God was listening for the woman he held.
He slid his hands to her hips and squeezed through the long wool skirt, grinding the solid bar of his cock into the cleft of her butt. She continued her sensual gyrations against him, her cheek pressed to the wall. She moaned softly, covered it by clearing her throat, then apologized into the phone.
“No, no. I’m fine. Mark is always welcome in my home, Dorothy. You know that, just as he does.” More silence. “Okay then, that’ll be fine. I’ll expect him on Thursday evening.” Silence. “I’m sure Daddy is thrilled to have Jill’s family there, too. He hasn’t even been into the shop since they’ve arrived.” Silence. “Okay, Dorothy. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone next week as well. Good-bye for now.” She clicked the phone off and dropped it to the floor.
“I take it we’re to have a guest,” he said. There was no way to know how the other man would respond to what Claire and Jared had been fantasizing about. Jared did know that the images of Claire pushed to the extreme limits of her pleasure, stretched between him and a man he had yet to meet, made him ache to begin.
She rocked her hips in a rhythm that had Jared’s blood pounding to the center of his body. Her cheek still rested against the wall and, with her eyes closed, she nodded. He kissed the flushed, hot skin of her cheek. He nudged aside the collar of her cotton blouse, then bit the tender flesh where her shoulder met the elegant line of her neck. Her low moan had nothing to do with pain as she reached up to slide her fingers into his hair, her short nails scoring his scalp and sending a shudder through him. “Finish unbuttoning your blouse, Claire.”
She trembled in his arms, but did as he asked. Sadness filled her soft green eyes. “I’m sorry, Jared.”

Win a Free Book!

2011-02-22T16:37:00.001-08:00

Stop my blog tomorrow- Wednesday March 23rd at www.RhondaPrint.Blogspot.com and visit with author Rosemary Gunn. She'll be talking about her new book Hearts A Plenty and giving away a FREE copy of Open Proposal!

Tessa's Pride by Olivia Brynn

2011-02-21T03:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome back Olivia and Happy Release Day! Thanks for taking the time to chat with us about Tessa's Pride.

How did you come up with the title?

Some titles take me months. There were a few that I even submitted to publishers before I came up with one that I liked. Tessa's Pride came to me easily, once I got to know the heroine. She's stubborn, and her entire world revolved around her horse ranch. When her herd is sentenced to death, it's her pride that takes the biggest blow.

Are your characters ever a reflection of someone you know? Yourself?

Sometimes. I think I take bits and pieces from people around me and squish them together to make a whole new person.

Do your characters ‘talk’ to you?

Some of them never shut up. I just love it when I'm in the middle of a scene and the unexpected happens. It's almost like I'm reading the story, and not involved in the creation at all. I just sit back and say, "Wow. Now what?"

What is your writing day like when you’ve started a project?

Well, I'm a pantser. I don't plot, I just fly by the seat of my pants. When I get an idea for a book, rather than write an outline, I just start with whatever I've got. Sometimes it's the beginning of chapter one, sometimes it's the final chapter. I think I got off the subject there. My day starts with music and chocolate milk.

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

They get progressively harder. The first few were cake. Then, as I don't want to cookie-cut scenes, I have to come up with new stuff. New emotions, new positions…

What book are you reading right now?

I've got so many on my to-be-read pile! Every week more books are released, and I don't think I'll ever catch up. I just bought Gem Sivad's Five Card Stud, and it's grinning at me from my desktop, taunting me with its nineteenth century sexy goodness.

Where can readers find you?

I'm on the web at http://oliviabrynn.com and on twitter at http://twitter.com/OliviaBrynn I also share a Facebook fan page with Alanna at http://facebook.com/alannacocaauthor

Are you working on another book?

Right now Alanna's got control. She's working on another contemporary, with a paranormal twist, and a romantic suspense.

Here is a link for the trailer! Enjoy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpyC5lX2SP0&

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

Sure! I've also got a free read, the prequel to Tessa's Pride. You'll find it on my website. This is a scene where Josh returns to the Bradley Equine Ranch, and Tessa isn't quite sure what to make of it:

Tessa’s heart seized. When it resumed beating, the pounding was deafening. “You’re staying here?”
He shook out a pair of silky-looking boxers, then folded them carefully. He probably did that to fluster her, and she resisted staring at them.
Disregarding her avoidance, he gestured with the underwear. “You don’t expect me to stay in a hotel, do you? When this three-thousand-square-foot house—that has belonged to my family for generations—sits all but empty?”
Yes.
“Well, no…but I didn’t…I guess I didn’t realize you’d planned on staying in the area.”
For having folded them so carefully, he tossed the underwear into the drawer without a thought before walking toward her. No, he didn’t walk; he prowled like a hungry lion. “You’re afraid, aren’t you?”
Yes.
She swallowed. “Afraid?”
“To stay here alone with me.” He moved into her space, and it took all her willpower to remain where she was. Although part of her wanted to run downstairs, a bigger part wanted to step into the heat that always surrounded him like an invisible cloak. The clean scent of amber aftershave and the coffee on his breath made her mouth water with the need to taste him. She focused on his Adam’s apple, and as he stepped closer, she took a step back, until her spine hit the wall.
“I’m not afraid.” Her voice wasn’t as strong as she would have liked. She swallowed again and looked up at him. As soon as she did, she regretted the move. His gaze pierced her, immobilizing her. She desperately wanted to cover her breasts so he wouldn’t see the way her nipples had tightened.
“You don’t sound sure.” His dark brows lowered, and he studied her mouth. “I think you’re scared.” His breath washed over her face with each word, and Tessa clenched her hands to refrain from reaching for him. She wanted to rub herself against him and transfer his scent to her clothes. “I think you’re afraid I’ll ravage you like I did that day in the meadow. You remember that day, don’t you?”
Yes, she remembered—often. Daily. Nightly. Hourly. It was only two years ago, the day he’d left BER for good. She still didn’t know if he had been waiting for her or if she had just happened upon him.
“I remember it too, Tessa.” Her name coming off his lips caressed her ears.
Her lids slid closed as she soaked in the words, lost in reminiscence.
“I’ve pulled the memory of that afternoon out more times than I can count. I’ll never forget the way you looked with your Stetson tilted over your brow. Your bare legs, so smooth…and your mouth… God, your mouth.” He stepped closer, until their clothes brushed and that familiar heat surrounded her as surely as if he’d reached out with his arms.
“Your lips that day,” he went on, even though she hadn’t responded or even opened her eyes. “The way they caught the sunlight after I kissed you. I’ll never forget the way your tongue swiped my moisture from them. I don’t think you had any idea what that little move did to me.”
Oh, she knew. That was right after he’d come all over her hand. Then he made that sexy grumbling sound and covered her body with his. Tessa clenched her thighs together to resist the urge to re-create that morning.
“Yes, I remember,” she whispered, lifting heavy lids to look at him. Her desire was reflected in the depth of his eyes.
Josh softly stroked a line from her earlobe to her chin. He shook his head, never releasing her from his stare. “It was beautiful. If my father hadn’t interrupted us…” He trailed off, leaving Tessa to fill in what could have been.
It wasn’t hard; she’d been imagining that scene for two years. She dropped her focus to the third button on his white shirt. She lifted her hand to his chest, feeling his heart beating beneath her fingertips.
He tilted her chin until she was forced to look at him again. To drown in the eyes of the man she had sworn she’d never fall for again. “I wanted you that day.” She watched his mouth move toward hers with each word. He leaned an inch closer, until her hand was trapped between their bodies. “I still want you.”
Tessa fisted his shirt before she melted into the hardwood floor. Just as she remembered; one touch of his lips on hers, and she was lost.

Text Copyright © 2011 by Olivia Brynn
Cover Art Copyright © 2011by Harlequin Enterprises Limited
Permission to reproduce text granted by Harlequin Books S.A. Cover art used by arrangement with Harlequin Enterprises Limited. All rights reserved. ® and ™ are trademarks owned by Harlequin Enterprises Limited or its affiliated companies, used under license.

Welcome to the Valentine's Day Blog Tour!

2011-02-11T23:07:00.000-08:00

My name is Rhonda L. Print and I am a paranormal romance author.

Scroll to the top of this page to read the blurb from Nightwalker, A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel and read the prologue and first chapter free at either LiquidSilverBooks.com or Amazon.com.

While you're here, add yourself as a follower on my blog before February 15th and one follower will be chosen to win a FREE copy of Nightwalker, A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel!

If you just happened along my blog today and want to jump on the blog tour bus for a chance to win some awesome prizes and meet some very talented authors, click HERE!

This is a weekend to celebrate love, romance and get a few nibbles of eye candy along the way. So lets get started with my short story to today's picture!

The door crashed open before I could give my answer. Maury rose from his knee and placed himself between me and the very angry man eating up the space between us in long, easy strides.

His long legs strode with a confidence only he could pull off without looking too cocky. He held his arms loosely at his sides but I could see his hands compressing into fists then releasing again in barely controlled fury.

“I thought I made myself clear, Andrew.” I lifted my chin and crossed my arms across my chest in defiance.

"You do not love him Elise. Why would you marry him?” Andrew's deep voice boomed across the room sending shivers of delight along my spine.

I sighed. In my world love and marriage had very little to do with one another. I was a Lupa, a she-wolf, and it was my duty to my pack to complete a treaty that had been made shortly after my birth. To marry Maury would continue the peace that my pack had enjoyed for the past twenty-one years.

To deny him would cause a war that would jeopardize the people I loved.

My heart sank in despair.

I wanted to spend all the days of my life with Andrew. Relive each night we’d stolen in each others arms.

I told him that the previous night would be our last. My father had arranged my marriage to the son of a rival pack leader upon my birth and I had no choice but to honor the arrangement.

I should have known that Andrew would attempt to stop me when, he responded by capturing my mouth with his.

I probably did know but simply didn’t want to acknowledge my fate.

Andrew deepened the kiss and I willingly fell into it, gliding my tongue into his mouth as if to seal the taste of him there for an eternity. My hands ran across his broad shoulders, savoring the feel of his muscles flexing as he picked me up and carried me to the bed.

I locked my thighs around him and raked my fingers into his hair as he trailed kissed down my neck.

He set me on the bed and stood before me, undoing each button of his shirt so slowly that I thought I would go mad with impatience. Before he’d reached the last button of his shirt, I had undone the fly of his jeans and was sliding his zipper down, freeing him at last.

He laughed as he pulled my shirt over my head then his eyes glazed over with lust. My skirt quickly followed my shirt and was thrown into a heap on the floor.

As our bodies joined my eyes welled with tears. Joyful ones for the love he filled my heart with and sorrowful ones for the knowledge that this would be the last time I would feel him fill me so completely.

I jerked myself from the memory.

“Andrew, you should not have come here.” My voice rose to barely a whisper. “Go home.”

“You heard her.” Maury growled. “Get out! She belongs to me now.”

I belong to Maury.

A possession.

No more important to him then the car he drove or the clothes he wore.

Anger rose within me, coloring my cheeks with rage. I choked it back, remembering my duty and the danger everyone I held dear faced if I turned away from Maury.

Destiny was an evil bitch!

I looked at Andrew, the man who loved me above all else.
Then I forced my gaze back to Maury before heaving out a long breath and letting my eyes fall to the floor.

The choice I made now would seal the fates of many. Which man should I choose?

There was only one answer.

“I’m sorry…” I whispered.

I hope you enjoyed my rendition of the picture!

It just wouldn't seem right to let you leave here without tempting you with some chocolate! Enjoy!

Nightwalker won an award!

2011-02-10T13:27:00.000-08:00

Here is an email I received today!
Many thanks to April Martinez for her wonderful cover!

Congratulations on being a winner in the 2010 Judge A Book By Its Cover Contest, sponsored by Houston Bay Area RWA.

We're pleased to announce that your cover for Nightwalker placed Fifth in the Romantic Suspense category.

You can view the First through Fifth Place winners by clicking on the link "And the winners are..." on our home page at www.hbarwa.com.
And be sure to watch for the Grand Prize winning covers in the April Romance Writers Report!

Leslie Marshman
Contest Coordinator
Judge a Book By Its Cover

Interviewing the Interviewer

2011-02-09T03:05:00.000-08:00

Today I get to interview the interviewer. Please welcome Houston A.W. Knight to the blog.

Ah, Interview The Interviewer…hummm, I like the sound of that. Maybe I’ll give up writing books and become a professional interviewer…I do enjoy talking to people. Hey Rhonda, thanks for having me over…I like it here. You’ve got a Great blog!

I’m fascinated by your blog

That’s good, means I’m doing me job! *wink* Wish there was a way to make money at it.

and the fact that you’ve written historical romance (Black Thunder), futuristic romance (A lover Paradox) and paranormal romance (Blood Witch). What draws you to write your genre and sub genres?

What draws me to write a historical(s) like “Black Thunder” is my adopted Full Blood Native American Indian brother…as a child he sparked me interest in the Native ways and beliefs.

I write Paranormal based on my Celtic background…we Irish are quite aware of the reality of both sides of our world. Our culture stems from the Druids.

My love of the futuristic comes from my love of science. I love writing romance, but unlike many romance writers and authors, my “down time” reading is not romance. I like to relax with “New Age” books by author’s like Newton (Journey of the Souls), Wolf (Parallel Universes), Ralphs (Exploring the Fourth Dimension), McMoneagle (Mind Trek), Monroe (journey’s out of the body) and Friedman’s Bridging Science and Spirit…books like these. They stir the imagination in me.

When I get published in Romance I hope my readers will enjoy the mixing of my loves within each of these genre. My futuristic has a touch of the paranormal as does my historical, but that’s because the reality of our world and life has this mix.

Your blog has many Ireland references to it

If it didn’t me father would be disappointed in me…he raised me to be proud of me blood.
Are you from Ireland?

Yes, it is the home of me heart, me blood and me family roots, though I was not born in Ireland or America. I am Irish through and through….me father will never let me forget that. :)

Have you ever been there?

Sadly for me not yet…But like a true Vampire I have soil from Ireland’s famous Croglan Aigle Mountian that I keep with me at all times. To remind me where me home is.

You mention on your blog that you have had personal experiences with the paranormal.

LOL, I’m Irish…what Irishman do you know that doesn’t?

Would you care you elaborate?

Ah, way too many tales to tell in the time we have here…but if you’re interested read me books because I share a lot of my life through them….and that includes the paranormal experiences as well.

What do you do to get in the mood to write?

Hot passion filled lips planting baby kisses up my neck. His strong arms wrap around me like a warm blanket on a winter morning, as he strokes feather like touches over my naked skin and whispers, “I want you.”

What? Oh, you want the real facts on what I do to get into the mood to write…oh, o.k., I get up around 2:oo 2:30 every morning, walk the dog with hubby, come home and bathe the dog, then toss them both back into bed. I then start me day with a cup of java and my laptop finding my inspiration in the wee hours before dawn, those precious hours when the world sleeps and my imagination takes flight. I’m full of stories in me head…they never stop.

Do you characters talk to you? (Mine never seem to shut up! LOL And I hope they never do!)

LOL…Thank the Gods I’m not alone with the talking Ghosts in me head. Yes, I said ghost not characters…and I say this because they come with a complete story to tell. When I have talking characters their stories are not always complete…there is a difference.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

The ghosts control theirs…but I control the tales told by characters.

Who is your favorite author?

I love a good story and enjoy everything I read but if I had to pick one…I like Rhonda Print’s work…have you read her latest book, Nightwalker? ;-D

What are you reading now?

I’m Crit’ing two books by two New Authors…that I believe will make it to the market. One is a woman’s fiction by Linda Bond and the other is a fabulous futuristic (Like a “Lord of the Rings, but better) by Scott Eason. Both have requests in at big Publishing houses right now! I see both writers becoming big time authors very soon!

I’m also reading a published author Maya Banks. Her book is called “Sweet Surrender” It’s a very interesting story about taking control by surrendering to a lover’s desire.

What is your guilty pleasure?

OH…hot, steamy romantic sex with the hubby.

If you were a supernatural creature, what would you like to be and why?

I have a thing for flying and knowledge…so I’d have to be a dragon. They carry wisdom within their magic powers.

You have many awesome pictures on your blog. Where do you get them?

Thank you! I usually Google them…and when I can’t find what I want… I ask my friends Elaing or Cecile…both girls have a talent for finding hot pics! Have you seen Moony Mondays on my blog by Elaine, or Cecile’s sight? OMG! There’s a link on my blog for Cecile “Miss Smutty Hussy” or click here
All I Want and More and go see! I mean HOT photos.

Where can your readers reach you?

I have a Twitter account, Face Book and a My Space but if you really want to chat with me and get to know me, visit my blog at this link
Hawk
It’s more personal and it’s there I have time to chat and get to know you. You can also find me most days over at Valance’s Porch I’m a running character over there at the porch and if you enjoy the old wild west…it gets pretty wild over there! There is also a link for it at my blog. Just look for the cowboy or me as a saloon girl!

Are you working on another book?

Yes, one I said I’d never write – Vampire – But remember what I said about ghosts…it’s a story told and one that’s got me wondering as the words unfold…chilling!

It’s not an easy book to write because Sebastian’s soooo secretive…he wants the story told but he doesn’t want to give me the info’ I need to tell it! It’s maddening. BUT it is a book that I will try to sell when it’s done…

All the titles (except A Lover’s Paradox) that you see on my site are books I haven’t tried to sell yet…I wanted to get several completed and under my wing before I swoop into the selling market…that way I’ll be ready with several books when I take flight into romance print.

My book “A Lover’s Paradox” was read by a known reviewer and its awesome review can be read on my blog. You find the tab under the header.

I am published in articles and other reading forms…but that doesn’t count in the romance genre.

Thank you for having me here today Rhonda…I enjoyed the visit and sharing a wee bit of me life with your readers. I hope they’ll all come over to visit me at my blog and join me family….Cead Mile Failte (A thousand Welcomes).

Scroll Down to the next post for an excerpt of her book Black Thunder

Writer Houston A.W.Knight (HAWK) - Black Thunder

2011-02-08T03:00:00.000-08:00

Join me tomorrow, February 9th as I sit down with Writer Houston A.W. Knight. Grab a cup of coffee and join us! In the meantime, enjoy an excerpt from her book Black Thunder

This is from Black Thunder:

Regretfully, he noticed the sheerness of the dress did little to warm her erect nipples from the cold or cover her nymph like body, silhouetted by the moonlight as it was. Inwardly he groaned as her hand move provocatively over her thigh to pull at the hem of her lacey chemise. God almighty, how the hell am I ever going to get her to Santa Fe and keep my sanity? He scoffed at the idea of protecting her from outlaws and Indians when she so badly needed protection from him.
“And me?” He moved closer to her, instantly picking up on her sudden nervousness. “How do you feel about me?”
Leann stood there nibbling at her bottom lip, twisting the end of her hair seductively between her slender fingers. Her head lowered in an innocent tilt. The image was enough to drive a sane man crazy with lust, and then she whispered, “Well now, that depends … how do ya’ feel about me?”
Her words were enough to drop him to his knees. Right then and there he should have insisted she return to the campsite but he didn’t. He couldn’t. Her question to his question gave him the answer he sought. He grabbed her hand and guided her further along the embankment, away from camp. When he found a safe area to shelter them from the cool air he stopped to pull her into his arms for an arousing kiss before saying in a throaty voice. “That’s why you came, isn’t it? To find out how I feel about you. To tempt me into showing my desire and my needs for you, but…” he pulled away from her, leery of the lure. “You know this is forbidden between Indians and whites? Is that the draw, the taboo?”

Guest Author Eve Langlais- Chance's Game

2011-02-07T03:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks for joining me today Eve and Congratulations on the release of you latest book Chance's Game. By the way, what an awesome cover!

Eve will be giving away a copy of Chance's Game to on commentor on this blog. Good Luck!

Where were you when you got your first book contract? Who did you tell?

I was sitting in my office at 5:30 in the morning when I got my first ever contract via email for my fantasy romance Take A Chance. I was stunned and started bouncing up and down in my chair, giggling. The first person I told was my hubby who was getting ready for work and wondering what had me acting like a crazy lady.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Chips and dip. There is nothing more satisfying than opening up a ruffled bag of chips and double dipping in a herb and garlic dip. Yummy, salty, crunchiness for the Saturday nights when the kids are in bed and hubby is out watching hockey with the guys. It’s sinful, but sooooo good.

Are you working on another book?

I’m currently hard at work on book three in my Princess of Hell series. Started with Lucifer’s Daughter, continued in Snowballs In Hell, this third story is an absolute roller coaster. And for those wondering, yes, Lucifer and Bambi are making appearances along with a new character; a darkly, delicious vamp.

If you were a supernatural creature, what would you like to be and why?

I want to be a shapeshifter, a big cat preferably. I love the idea of having more than human strength, the ability to heal quickly and the concept of fated mates. Not to mention, it would be cool to be able to see in the dark.

How many books have you written? How many have been published?

I’ve written a total of twenty five stories and I am proud to say they have all been contracted. At this point in time, 19 are available for purchase either directly from the publisher or via various distribution sources such as Amazon, Fictionwise and All Romance. I have no intention of stopping either lol. I love writing.

Do you set timelines when you’re writing or write when the feeling hits you?

I treat writing like a job and work at it Monday to Friday. I aim for at least 1k words a day and a minimum of 10-15 k words a week. I am my own taskmaster lol. Of course, sometimes my regular day job, family and real life get in the way, but I still strive to always reach my weekly goals.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

My characters always seem to develop minds of their own. It’s why I can’t use an outline when I write. Just when I think the story is going one way, my characters will throw a monkey wrench in and run off in another direction. But, I’ll admit, it makes the whole writing experience very interesting.

Do you promo your backlists when you’re writing a new book, or dedicate your time solely to writing?

I hate doing promo work, so while I dedicate a little bit of time weekly to it, I prefer to be actually writing. They say the more books you have, the easier they sell. I guess, I’ll find out if that theory holds true eventually lol.

Where can your readers reach you?

My website is the place to go to see covers, read excerpts, send me a message and link up to me on Facebook. I’m always updating it with information on upcoming releases, giveaways and more so pop on by for visit at http://www.EveLanglais.com

I’d like to thank you Rhonda for taking the time to interview me, and offer an even bigger thank you to those who took the time to read it. I wish you all happy reading. Eve :)

Blurb for Chance’s Game coming February 7th from Champagne Books

The God of Chance is bored--mortals beware!

Breanna is a rare sort of shapeshifter even for a world where magic is rampant. Rare enough that she catches the attention of the God of Chance who sends her on a quest to free magic. Simple you say? Not for this girl who has to keep avoiding the men who would claim her, while getting to know a twin she never knew she had. Then to make things even more fun, Chance throws in a super sexy wizard to go on the quest with her. As you can imagine, the outcome ends up magical.

Magic, danger, meddlesome gods and romance await Breanna and her wizard. And when their quest is done, the world as we know it will never be the same again.

I'm Being Interviewed!

2011-02-04T14:50:00.000-08:00

I'm over visiting author Jeanne St. James today. Stop on by and say Hello!

http://jeannestjames.blogspot.com/2011/02/interview-with-lsb-author-rhonda-print.html

You can also find me over at author L.K.Below's place at

http://lbelow.blogspot.com/2011/02/m...-rhonda-l.html

Stop by this weekend, add yourself as a follower on my blog between now and February 15th and one follower will be chosen to win a FREE copy of Nightwalker, A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel!

Jeanne St. James and Double Dare

2011-02-02T03:00:00.000-08:00

Intriguing title! Why don’t you tell us a little bit about your book!

Double Dare is an interracial ménage (m/m/f) that I had a blast writing. It’s my first interracial story and my first ménage. Here’s the blurb:

What could be better than waking up next to a hot guy? Waking up sandwiched between two of them.

Quinn Preston, a financial analyst, is not happy when her friends dare her to pick up a handsome stranger at a wedding reception. What better reason to give up men when her previous long-term relationship had not only been lackluster in the bedroom but he had cheated.

Logan Reed, a successful business owner, can’t believe that he’s attracted to the woman in the ugly, Pepto-Bismol colored bridesmaid dress. And to boot, she’s more than tipsy. After turning down her invitation for a one-night stand, he finds her in the parking lot too impaired to drive. He rescues her and takes her home. His home.

The next morning Quinn’s conservative life turns on its ear when Logan introduces her to pleasures she never even considered before. And to make things more complicated, Logan already has a lover…

Tyson White, ex-pro football player, is completely in love with Logan. He has mixed emotions when Logan brings home Quinn. But the dares keep coming and things heat up with the three of them. Nevertheless Ty wonders: will adding Quinn to the mix end up enhancing or destroying Logan’s and his relationship?

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, BDSM theme & content, male/male sexual practices, ménage (m/m/f).

(I just love the publishers note! I get a kick every time I read it.)

Where can we buy your book?

As an e-book from Loose Id: http://www.loose-id.com/Double-Dare.aspx
Paperback: http://www.amazon.com/Double-Dare-Jeanne-St-James/dp/1607372932/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpi_2
Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Double-Dare-ebook/dp/tags-on-product/B003CT387S

Where do you find your inspiration?

Everywhere. A movie, a book, a newspaper article. Just my imagination. All I need is a seed of an idea and it just goes from there.

Where can your readers learn more about you?

My blog: http://jeannestjames.blogspot.com
My website: http://www.jeannestjames.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jeannestjames

What are you writing now?

I have a lot of works in progress; however, I haven’t really done a lot of new writing lately. But I am actively re-writing/editing a m/f erotic romance that I’ve had sitting on the back burner. It will be the first book in a series about three brothers who are cops in a small town in northern Pennsylvania.

Do you have an excerpt from a book that you’d like to share?

EXCERPT:

Quinn Preston almost choked on her Alabama slammer when her friend elbowed her in the ribs. "Ooof."

She saved her drink before it could spill all over her ugly bridesmaid dress. Yeah, that would have been a shame: to ruin such a nice, frumpy, pukey pink taffeta dress. One the bride had said she would be able to wear in the future. Like to a cocktail party. Or maybe her own funeral. Yeah, right. No one in their right mind would want to get caught dead in this thing.

Ruining the dress wouldn't have been a loss, but losing her drink would have. She was drinking slammers for a reason -- to get good and drunk.

Lana nudged her again. "You see that?" She nodded her head toward the back of the room.

"What?" Quinn really didn't care what Lana was excited about. She just wanted to get this day over with. She was tired of watching the happy couple. She was tired of pasting on a plastic smile for the photographer. And she was really tired of listening to the sappy congratulations. All things she might never have -- the wedding, the husband, the bridal bliss. And something her parents never failed to remind her. Especially now that she was in her early thirties. And single. Again.

"Not what. Who."

"Huh?" She sucked on the dainty little straw the bartender had put in her drink. Hardly anything would come out of it. Maybe it was designed just for stirring. She pulled it out and threw it onto the bar. She really needed one of those big giant straws that came in those fancy frozen drinks.

"Him. Over there." Lana grabbed Quinn by the shoulders and turned her around to face whatever had caught her friend's attention.

"Oh, him." She took a deep draw of the punchlike drink, only there wasn't a bit of punch in it. Not the fruit kind anyway.

"Yeah, him." Lana dragged out him like she was sucking on a maraschino cherry and enjoying the sweetness on her tongue.

Quinn didn't even take a good look. Men were on her shit list at the moment. She didn't care how hot they were. The potent drink in her hands was all the company she needed. She smiled into her glass; it was the best date she'd had in a while.

Another pink taffeta blur whizzed up to them, out of breath.

"Jeez Louise. Did you see that hunk of man meat?" Paula, another victim of the wedding fashion nightmare, was flushed and had a bead of sweat running down her chipmunk-like cheeks. "Do you think he's single?"

Quinn raised one shoulder in a half shrug and turned back to the bar. It was bad enough when the three of them had to stand next to each other at the altar, then throughout the grueling pictures, followed by having to sit beside each other at the head table. All in that awful pink froth. But now that it was all over, and they had done their duty for their friend Gina, there was no reason they all had to stand there looking like someone threw up Pepto-Bismol.

She leaned into the bar and asked the semicute bartender the time. When he answered that it was six, she gritted her teeth. They had only been at the reception for an hour. It was way too early to bail.

Damn.

With a sigh, she turned back to her friends. They were still ogling the male eye candy across the room.

Paula's sigh drifted over her. "I wonder if he likes women with a little meat on their bones."

A little meat? She opened her mouth to correct Paula, but shut it quickly. Her friend didn't need to be on the receiving end of her miserable mood.

"Quinn, I bet he'd make you forget Peanut."

Quinn winced and took another long draw from her drink. She loved the flavor and the tanginess on her tongue. And she was trying to forget Peanut. She hated the nickname her friends had called her ex-boyfriend, Peter. Once they had actually called him Peanut in front of his face -- by accident, of course. Right. It had taken her a while to brush that one under the rug. He had never liked her friends after that.

On the other hand, her friends had never liked Peter from the beginning. Unlike her parents, who loved the bastard. Probably more than they loved her.

"Yeah, Quinn, he could probably fuck your brains out, and you'd never remember that douche again."

Quinn frowned at Paula. She noticed her friend's string of pearls hiding in the skin around her neck. Quinn's hands automatically went to her neck to finger a similar necklace -- a part of the stupid wedding costume. Ugh. She hated pearls!

She hated taffeta. She hated pink. She hated frilly dresses.

She took a long swig from her glass.

And she hated Peter. The asshole.

His gift to her last Valentine's Day wasn't an engagement ring. Oh no, after five long, wasted years of dating the shit, he couldn't have gotten her a ring. Nope. Instead he sent her a text message.

That was it.

A stupid little text message. One line.

We've grown apart and I've found someone new.

She deserved more than that. Something better. After all those years of loyalty, standing by his side, being the "good, proper" girlfriend. As Peter had expected. As her parents had expected. The girlfriend any decent man would want on his arm. Right?

Not even a sorry. Not even an explanation. Nothing.

And the next day, FedEx had delivered a box with all the things she had left over at his apartment during the last half decade.

Quinn emptied her glass and turned back to the bar, blocking out her friends' chattering over that man.

She needed another man like she needed a hole in the head.

She slid her glass over the bar top, and before she could ask for another, a deep voice washed over her.

"Put her next drink on me."

Dumb ass. The drinks are on the house. She turned to ream whoever it was, and stopped. Her mouth opened, but nothing escaped.

"You look like a fish out of water with your mouth hanging open like that." When he smiled, the lines around his eyes crinkled. He was tan, an outdoorsy tan, not a manmade one. And he had beautiful green eyes. Shit. She had never seen such beautiful eyes on a man. His nose was a little crooked, like it had been broken, and it made him even more beautiful. No. Not beautiful. He was. He was.

Quinn closed her mouth and swallowed hard. He was so unperfect, he was perfect. His hair was a dark brown with natural highlights, more proof he liked being outdoors. It was long and pulled back into a neat ponytail.

She hated long hair on men. But it was right on him.

He had a beard that wasn't a beard. It was like a longer five-o'clock shadow.

She hated facial hair.

He had a strong, corded neck that disappeared into a stiff dress shirt. The collar had been already released and one more button undone below that. The knot of his tie was loose and hung crookedly from around his neck.

The sleeves of his crispy white shirt were rolled up to his elbows, and his forearms were tan covered in dark hair. His hands.

Oh. Damn.

His hands were large. They were working hands. They weren't soft and pampered. But calloused and thick and strong.

Capable. Capable of doing all kinds of things.

Quinn's nipples hardened under the scratchy taffeta.

His hands could do all kinds of dirty, nasty things.

Things Peter had never wanted to do.

Quinn ripped her gaze from him and spun back around to the bar, bracing herself against it for a second to catch her breath. She grabbed her fresh drink and took a gulp.

"Whoa. Slow down there."

She pressed the cold drink against her forehead in an attempt to cool herself off.

She needed to go change her panties, she was so freaking wet.

She could feel his heat next to her; his body was like a furnace. She wanted to plant her hands on his chest and feel how hot he really was. Her fingers convulsed around her glass.

"Are you okay?" The deep timbre of his voice sent a shot of lightning down her body, landing right in her pussy.

Quinn could only nod her answer.

He palmed her bare shoulder and turned her to him. He stared down into her eyes, his lips widening into a smile.

His lips. Oh man. Those lips probably could do all sorts of things to her, with her. Lips that were made for more than kissing.

"Yes." Oh my God, she thought. That was the kind of yes she blurted when she was in the midst of an orgasm. At least from what she could remember. It had been so long since she'd come.with a partner, anyway.

She felt the heat crawl up her neck, and she stepped back, breaking the contact.

"I.I'm fine." She cleared her throat. "Thank you for the drink." She took another sip before raising the glass to him in thanks.

"It was nothing." When he laughed, her knees almost buckled. "Enjoy it."

He stepped away and then paused. But it looked as though he thought better of whatever he was contemplating, and he continued on his way.

Quinn leaned back against the bar and let out a shaky breath.

She was suddenly flanked on either side by her friends. She had been so distracted, she hadn't even realized that they disappeared.

"Quinn --"

"Quinn!"

"Oh. My. God!"

"I told you he was hot!"

"Oh! I wish I weren't married already."

"I wish he liked chubby chicks."

Quinn couldn't take any more. She raised her palms in surrender. "Stop. Enough."

"But, Quinn --"

"But nothing," Quinn answered Paula.

"You're just going to let him walk away?"

"Paula, he isn't going anywhere. Unfortunately I'm not going anywhere. We have to be here for two more hours, at least."

Lana said, "Are you going to let Peter ruin the rest of your life? All men aren't assholes like him."

Quinn harrumphed and took another sip of her slammer.

"Why don't you at least dance with him?"

"No."

"Why not?" Lana asked.

Why not? Because if she did, she might come right on the dance floor? Because she might end up in a puddle of her own juices? The picture in her head shocked her: it was of her lying in a heap in the middle of the dance floor in the throes of an orgasm. Surrounded by all the wedding guests.

This drink was stronger than she thought.

"Because no one is dancing yet."

"Sure they are. Look."

Quinn glanced over at the area cleared for dancing, and sure enough, a crowd of people were out there shaking their groove thing. Quinn had been too busy trying to get her drink on to notice.

From the looks of the participants on the dance floor, a few of them had been partaking in the open bar also. Even the bride and her new husband were bouncing and shimmying in the crowd.

At least they were a happy couple.

Quinn took another drink.

Lana frowned at her. "Are you just going to drink tonight, or are you going to do something about your situation?"

"Situation? What situation?"

"Getting laid."

Quinn checked over her shoulder to see if the bartender was listening. He was. He had a big grin plastered on his face. Great.

The father of the bride came up and asked for a gin and tonic. While he was waiting, he turned to them. "Hi, girls. Enjoying yourselves? You look great in those dresses. My wife picked them out."

Oh joy. Quinn would have to remember to smack -- she meant thank -- her. She couldn't wait to rip the scratchy, ugly piece of shit off.

All three women gave him a smile but bit their tongues. Eventually he wandered away, and Lana and Paula jumped right back to harassing her. Good thing they were her friends.

"C'mon. It's not going to hurt to have a one-night stand. Look at him."

"I already saw him." Holy moley, she knew they meant well, but they were getting on her last nerve.

"Yeah, and we saw how you were drooling too."

She had not drooled. Her hand automatically went up to her mouth.

Paula said, "He probably isn't interested in you anyway."

"Yeah, you couldn't get someone like that. You attract losers like Peter," Lana said.

If they thought their reverse psychology was going to work, well, it wasn't.

"Looks like he's with Paige Reed, anyway."

Quinn's gaze shot over to the corner of the ballroom where the tall man stood next to the petite, dark-haired beauty. Paige Reed. Figures.

"I thought Paige was dating Connor Morgan," Quinn mumbled.

She must have mumbled loud enough, because Lana answered her. "She is. Connor had to fly to Australia for something to do with his job."

"So why is she with him?" Quinn asked. Why was she so curious all of a sudden? Why did she care?

She didn't. She nursed her drink. After one and a half Alabama slammers, she was starting to feel pretty tipsy. She wasn't used to drinking. And when she did drink, she usually had wine, not hard liquor, and especially not such a hard-hitting mix of liquors.

Paula leaned into the both of them and said in an exaggerated whisper, "Maybe he's an escort," like it was a scandal, and then laughed.

Maybe he was an escort.

He was probably worth every penny too.

His back was to them now, but that just gave Quinn the opportunity to study how broad those shoulders were in his dress shirt. When he moved, the fabric bunched and pulled with his muscles.

Lana gasped, jerking Quinn out of her thoughts. "He's not an escort! That's Logan Reed, Paige's brother. I haven't seen him since we were kids. Holy shit, did he grow up."

"I'll say." Paula agreed. "Quinn, I dare you to go ask him to dance."

"Not interested."

Lana joined in. "Yeah, I dare you too. Don't be a wuss."

If she were a wuss, she wouldn't have come out in public in this pink atrocity. And the matching shoes were killing her feet. The last thing she needed was to be dancing. She'd be crippled.

"That's a double dare, you know, with the two of us daring you.."

Oh, boy, a double dare. She would definitely do it now -- not. "You're crazy."

"No, you are, if you pass up this opportunity. "

"How do you know he's available?" Quinn asked them.

"You don't know until you ask him," Lana said. "But if I remember correctly, his wife left him a while ago. There had been some rumors."

There had been some rumors about her and Peter too, but rumors were just that: rumors. She didn't take any stock in them.

Paula suddenly shouted, "Truth or dare?" making Quinn jump. It was like they were teenagers all over again.

Lana quickly said, "Truth." And bounced on her toes like she was fifteen.

Jesus, would someone please put a bullet in my head? Quinn needed to be put out of her misery.

Paula asked Lana, "Do you shave or wax?"

"Shave. Okay, Quinn, your turn. Truth or dare?"

Quinn was not playing this juvenile game. It was stupid; she was not going to fall into what was clearly a trap.

"Truth."

"How bad was Peter in bed?" Lana asked.

Damn. She wasn't going to answer that one. Even as drunk as she was. She didn't want to relive their vanilla, boring lovemaking. And she definitely didn't want to admit it or talk about it.

There was only one thing left for her to do.

I'm Being Interviewed!

2011-01-29T03:05:00.001-08:00

I'm being interviewed on Saturday January 29th at http://xakara.livejournal.com/

Stop by and say hello!

What I liked best about having Breast Cancer

2011-01-29T03:00:00.000-08:00

This letter was written by my sister-in-law, Noreen Harder Print who is battling Breast Cancer. I found it and her to be very inspirational and wanted to pass along her bravery in the face of adversity along with a reminder to have regular mammograms and do regular self-breast examinations.

The photo is of Noreen and her family after she ran a half-marathon, shorly after finishing Chemotherapy treatments!

What I Liked Best About Having Breast Cancer . . . . .

Smaller boobs – I had a lumpectomy, which basically means that my Dr. cut a big chunk out of my breast so as to have “clean margins.” How my other breast ended up the same size as the surgically reduced one is anyone’s guess, but personally? I suspect it shrank in fear. Anyway, I am loving my new look.

Baldness – Ok, don’t get me wrong. Before my hair fell out? I was a mess. But once it began falling out, I was cool with it. And I will be forever grateful to my friends Letty and Amelia who just happened to be available when the time came and were brave enough to help me shave it off. It turns out that I had a really nice-shaped head under all of that hair, and I looked so good that I decided I would not be putting it under wraps, choosing to go au natural instead. Did I mention how much I loved being bald? For those of you who’ve never experienced it, IT FEELS GREAT! And I learned a HUGE lesson that basically boils down to this: It’s not about the hair. It’s not about how I look. It’s about how I feel. And quite frankly, I feel wonderful.

Being Popular – (Oh yeah! Popular again after 30 years, what can I say?) I received boatloads of cards, presents, phone calls, and even became a regular feature on my writer friend’s blog (http://paulita-ponderings.blogspot.com/). After I ran the Columbus ½ Marathon in October, my Mom called my hometown newspaper, and they wrote a story about me. At the chemo lounge, and various other medical outposts, I was continually being pampered by medical professionals (would you like some ice chips to go with that toxic red chemical that we are pumping in your veins?). And let’s face it, when you are a woman, and you are walking around bald, everyone is gawking at you (and I mean everyone). Like I said – popular.

Breezing Through Treatments – What began as a nightmare, became a pretty damn amazing experience. I think I must be an anomaly. I know that I am one of the luckiest people on the face of the earth, that’s for sure. Here’s why . . . I was able to run 3 days after my surgery (ok, so I did have to carry my breast like a football and did have a drain tube attached to my chest cavity, but still). I never once became sick or fatigued by 16 rounds of chemo or the 34 daily radiation treatments that followed. In fact, if anything, I felt better and had more energy. I was able to keep up with my active family, running, graduate school, and even went back to work in August after a 4 year sabbatical.

Playing the Cancer Card – Admittedly, I never became very good at it. I tried to get MacKenzie to go out for the rowing team (didn’t work), to get the kids to help me around the house (rarely worked), and to motivate my students at Northland High School (worked momentarily or not at all). I almost used it to get a close-up handicapped parking space at a marching band competition once, but didn’t think about using the cancer card until it was too late. I did, however, use it to order last minute homecoming flowers while I was at chemotherapy once (success!). My coworkers have advised me to wear black when I am dealing with particularly difficult parents at school “to look more washed-out and cancer-riddled,” but I don’t believe this is very effective either. What can I say?

Updates and Coming Events

2011-01-28T20:17:00.001-08:00

You can also get updates and coming events for me at http://www.theromancereviews.com/Rhonda

I'm on Bringing in the New Year with Coffeetime Romance

2011-01-28T06:27:00.001-08:00

I'm on Coffeetime Romance and More today! http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/board/showthread.php?p=138336#post138336

Stop on by, I'm asking What do you like to see in a romance novel, and what you don't.

Let me know and find out how you can win a FREE COPY OF NIGHTWALKER, A LEAH WOLFE SINS NOVEL!

Guest Author Mima and Bound Among the Stars

2011-01-26T03:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations on your book! Why don’t you tell us a little about it.

Bound Among the Stars began as an invite from another author. She wanted to do fairy tales in space. I am bonkers about fairy tales, so I signed up. I don’t remember why I chose Rumpelstiltskin. It’s always been interesting because of the wicked little gnome, but the miller’s daughter marrying the bully of a king never made any sense to me. This was my chance to fix that. The spinning of the gold became a sex drug, the gnome became a noble hottie, and the heroine knew better than to care anything at all about the king or his gold.

Where can your readers reach you? I just revamped my website actually!

http://www.mimawithin.com

Is there one particular thing that you find challenging about writing?

Words. A mental mind meld would be so much easier!
Do you have any tips for new writers? Nope. There’s too many ways to enjoy this roadtrip, to succeed at this business, and to grow as a writer.

What are you reading now?

At this moment I have four books on my nightstand, but the one I touched last is Gaiman’s Odd and the Frost Giant, a middle grade novel.

Are your characters a reflection on you or anyone you know?

Some of my heroes have chunks of my guy, and some of my heroines are much more like me, particularly Vivienne. But none of them are autobiographical. I just use real snippets to round them out.

Are any of your personal experiences reflected in your writing?

It’s a huge compliment when reviewers note that such and such a plot must surely be autobiographical because I wrote so movingly about it. I have no experience with disability, motherhood, violence, or dependency. Nor large black marble dildos, psychic menages, or mermen, sadly.

What is your favorite thing about writing?

Wonder. The weird pride and fear and surprise of typing The End.

If you were a supernatural creature, what would you like to be and why?

A shapeshifter would be awesome. But I think it should be like Pullman’s world of daemons or Rowling’s patronus manifestation, where the beast is out of your control and a true reflection of your personality. I’d love to do more totem spirit work and try to discover that for myself.

Do you have a favorite character from one of you own books? Who and Why?

My most recent Bonded, Rogue Within, features a balls-to-the-wall bad boy. Donte’s totally messed up and not really conflicted about it. I’m so into him. Fictionally, of course.

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

No. Not at all. That’s part of the escape package for me. I used to blush about the kink that showed up, but I’m pretty much accepting this is what I enjoy writing now. Well, sometimes I’m still a little perplexed by the dark stuff.

Do your characters talk to you?

No.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

It used to be a discovery. As time goes on, I’m becoming more of a plotter, in part because of my dedication to making sure I don’t write the same sort of book twice. I’m very conscious of using different plot types, so I step in and try to control it more. But the magic comes when I’m in a flow. When I have at least one character with this incredible conflict and the story is just rolling out of me in time with the typing, it’s so awesome. I’ll reread the scene and have no idea how I came up with those images.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

Here’s one from my scifi fairytale short titled “Bitter Gold” appearing in the dual story anthology Bound Among the Stars with Jennifer Leeland.

Liese paced around the cream-colored mat that sat before the machine. There were robotics and grids against the wall, and then the pulsing web of light projected out from that in a circle. The mat was on the floor before it, but in between the mat and the circle sat three boxes. They were transparent, chair-height, and side by side so they almost formed a bench. Inside each was a fat pile of pale, straw-like sticks, poking every-which-way. Flax, waiting to be spun into gilt. Such innocent looking stuff that became such an intensely addictive substance.
More out of bored curiosity than anything, she jabbed at the mat with her toe. The machine hummed with a whir, green lights winking and flashing in different shades. Liese leaped back with a cry, stopping only when she was plastered against the cold gray wall. She stared at it hard, chest thrusting with the force of her horror at activating it.
The door slid open. She spun to face it with a squeak. Almost, she didn’t recognize him. He stood in the sumptuous hall, and the red light on his dark brown skin and mussed black hair made him look like he was painted in flames. Her schwarz had never looked more compelling. His eyes pinned her tight where she stood, hands flattened on the slick metal next to her hips.
He stepped into the room and the door zipped closed. His gaze went to the machine, then to the three boxes of flax. “I heard the cheer go up when they got the notice you’d approached the wheel.”
She swallowed. “You ... you knew I was here?”
“I was there when Miller gave you up last night, and Konig commanded Uther to bring you in.”
She blinked at him, her eyes fluttering from the sharp pinch of pain her breastbone. He’d known. He hadn’t stopped it, hadn’t ended this. “Can you get me out?”
“No.”
The word was final. Clenching her jaw, she stared at the floor. This couldn’t be happening. “So this room is monitored?”
“The alfen have a no-monitoring policy. Generally, any pleasure they’d derive from recordings is less than the danger of their recordings being used against them.” He waved one hand at the wheel. “But they are watching the read-outs of this. They’ll know when you begin to use it and they’ll know when you’ve finished making the gilt.”
Liese looked at the machine, the light-wheel, the clear boxes and the white mat. “I’m not going to.”
The silence in the room was thick, and for the first time, uncomfortable between them.
“Liese. You must.” The words seemed torn from him, gritty.
She shook her head. “No.”
“Liese.”
“They sent you, didn’t they? To convince me.” She glared at him, standing all muscled and hairy in that shockingly lewd black webbing.
It was his turn to shake his head. “They don’t know I’m here.”
She raised one brow, angry at him. “How are you evading your programming?”
He rubbed at the gold disc emerging from the slab of muscle on his chest. “I’m allowed to seek women in the final hours of the night after they’ve all fed.”
Liese was surprised. “It’s after hours?” She wouldn’t touch the bit about the women. He was worse than Miller.
“It’s two hundred on the day after you were taken.”
Her face crumpled in dismay. She couldn’t control the way her chin wobbled. “There’s been no search? No missing person call?”
He shrugged. “I don’t know. I only go out on shopping day. Certainly, there’s been no search for you here, nor will there be. Konig has the station master well in hand. If there were any sympathetic witnesses, they’ll have been paid off and threatened by now.”
Liese slid down the wall, wrapping her arms tight over her chest. “I can’t believe this is happening.”
“It’s best if you get past that denial quickly. I can tell you that the sooner you start negotiating the situation to your benefit, the better off you’ll be.” He sounded tired.
She wouldn’t look at him. “I won’t do this thing. I’m not going to waste my life creating a drug, only to then be enslaved by it. It won’t be a good death, but--”
“But what? Death before dishonor? Don’t be an idiot. Are you saying you don’t respect me for surviving as a slave instead of killing myself outright?” He moved closer to her.
She closed her eyes. “You have a chance of escape, Stillskin. Gilt can’t infect you. But if they make me an addict, I’m already dead. It’s just a matter of time.”
He paced to the wall by the supplies they’d left. He turned and paced back to the wall she slumped against. Then he pivoted and went across the room again. She stole one quick look at the way the straps encircled his immense neck, crossed his muscled back, and skimmed his tight, flexing ass. Yup, it was just as lovely as she’d imagined beneath his nice suit. He punched the wall, a hard, dull thump.
She winced. “What are you doing here?”
He flung himself around and she dropped her gaze from his furious one, then blushed and averted her eyes from the way the webbing framed and lifted his genitals. “I’ve been a mess ever since I heard that puling sack Miller drop your name last night. Don’t you know I’ve done nothing but try to work out how to stop this, how to save you?”
She felt guilty. She should have known. Her gaze crept back to his sparking black depths. He was a good man in a horrible situation. She’d known it since she’d met him, and should have known it tonight. “There isn’t a way out?”
He thrust both hands into his hair. “No.” He held her gaze, his desolate and stunned. “No.”
She dropped her head back against the wall, her stomach churning, despite its empty state.
“Liese. Make the gilt. Maybe, somehow, I can rig some interruption, some delay in your tattooing. Until it’s done, there’s hope.”
She gave a sad smile. “But once we fail, and they’ve inked me with the stuff, you wouldn’t be able to kill me, would you? I’d be part of the addicts you’re bound to serve. And I’ll have lost the will to do it myself.”
“Don’t assume failure! Assume escape!” He came over to her, close enough she felt his warmth from a half meter away. Even his feet were interesting to her, toes, arches, bony ankles and all.
“It’s almost funny. How yesterday...”
“There’s nothing funny here.” He sounded frustrated. “Focus on the issue, Liese. You waste precious time and resources on denial.”
She shrugged, chafing her upper arms. “I’m not in denial, really. I think I’m still pretty shocked, but I made my decision. It’s just so strange, how yesterday I warned you about a strange delivery. And it was probably this flax stuff.”
“Flax is a fiber with properties of transference. Basically this spinning process makes a pleasure drug.”
Liese snorted. “A psychic plant. What if I kill myself on that mat? Will it transfer hate and rage from then on too?”
He knelt by her so fast, she gasped. “The wheel has been set to feed only on sexual release, but you should be thankful the process is so psychic. Otherwise, it would be a simple matter of drugging and raping you into release.”
She shivered, curling her toes tighter. She sat with her legs tucked to one side. Resting her head on the wall, it was surreal to study him here in the soft white light of the wheel. “To think they chose me because I stayed away from the shit.”
He swallowed. In a hushed, rusty voice he said, “Liese.”
She held her breath. “Stillskin.”
“You’re my friend. Don’t give up. What if you’re able to escape later, and find a cure for the addiction? Swallow your pride. Survive, as long as you can. Hope.”
Bitter warmth swelled her throat. She blinked fast and hard to hold back burning tears. “You’re so sweet.”

CONTEST:

Anyone who leaves a comment on my blog http://mimawithin.blogspot.com by 2/1 gets registered to win a free book from my backlist.

I'm Being Interviewed!

2011-01-25T21:32:00.001-08:00

Author Sherri Desbois takes time from her busy schedule to interview me on Wednesday January 26th. Make sure you take a look at the pics the put with the prologue to Nightwalker! AMAZING!
Stop by and say hi!

http://sherridesbois.blogspot.com/?zx=edec53ce74520651

Shelley Munro and A Discreet Affair

2011-01-24T03:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations on your book! Why don’t you tell us a little about it?

Thank you, Rhonda and thanks for having me to visit. My latest release is A Discreet Affair. It’s a World War II romance, set in Biggin Hill, which is near London.

I find this era fascinating, especially the daily lives of the men and women who stayed at home and kept the home front ticking over. They faced many hardships such as rationing and losing family members who were fighting overseas and, during the summer of 1940, the enemy commenced nightly bombings. Sleep was in very short supply and the people faced danger each night but they kept going. A Discreet Affair also deals with the fighter pilots who attempted to keep the enemy at bay, facing great danger and stress on a daily basis.

Here’s the blurb:

Summer, 1940. Britain is at war, and her brave fighter pilots attempt to keep the enemy at bay.

The last thing Pamela Allison wants is another man, especially one like her brutal, now deceased husband. Her managing mother wants her to live with her in London, but Pamela accepts a job from her aunt, working in the family store in the village near Biggin Hill.

Enter Michael Stedman, a Spitfire pilot based at the Biggin Hill airbase. Depressed and a little drunk after the death of his friend, he doesn’t expect to meet a beautiful woman during a night out at the local pub. He’s not looking for anything permanent since a pilot’s life is fraught with danger. All he wants is a little feminine company to take his mind off the war.

London is under siege by the enemy. Bombs drop every night and the danger increases for everyone. Michael and Pamela’s relationship changes and they become lovers. They are happy with their secret liaison until gossip and the past intrude and threaten to destroy everything, including her good reputation.

A Discreet Affair is due out on 17 January from Liquid Silver Books. http://www.liquidsilverbooks.com

WIN a copy of Discreet Affair by commenting on this blog. One winner will be chosen.
Good Luck!

Do you work on one project at a time or multiples?

I tend to have more than one project on the go but usually focus on one. For example at present I’m working on a paranormal shifter story. I’m completing my word count each day on this story and, if I finish early or feel like working longer, I might swap to another work in progress. If I get stuck I’ll typically swap to another project while I mull over my problems with the first story.

Is there one particular thing that you find challenging about writing?

LOL – yes! Actually sitting at my computer and writing is hard. There are some days when even the housework seems more interesting than writing. I have to be strict with myself and make sure I write a minimum number of words each day. In my case that’s 2000 words each day. This is a good pace for me—one that I can sustain without burning out.

What is your favorite thing about writing?

My favorite thing about writing is being my own boss. After years of working at an office job I enjoy setting my own pace and goals. I like knowing if I make mistakes, it’s my problem. I also like getting paid for making things up and using my imagination. When I say I’m away with the fairies, I’m most likely telling the truth!

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

Definitely the characters. I’m not much of a plotter. I start a story knowing my characters and their inner conflicts. My characters take it from there. I might have a vague idea where I want to go or how I want to end the story, but generally my characters end up directing. They’re a bossy lot, too!

Where can your readers reach you?

I have a website at http://www.shelleymunro.com and I blog most days at http://www.shelleymunro.com/blog
I also have a Twitter account http://www.twitter.com/shelleymunro and a Facebook account http://www.facebook.com/shelleymunro

Romance Novel Material

2011-01-20T20:56:00.000-08:00

I received this email from a neighbor today and it was sooo funny that I wanted to share it. I don't know who wrote it or I would happily give them the credit. So, whoever you are, wherever you are, Thanks for the laugh today!

UPDATE:

Author L.K. Below enlightened me. This awesome piece was written by Ginger Simpson and for more of her work check out her blog at http://mizging.blogspot.com/

Romance Novel Material

He Grasped me firmly but gently just above my elbow and guided me into a room, his room. Then he quietly shut the door and we were alone.

He approached me soundlessly, from behind, and spoke in a low, reassuring voice close to my ear. "Just relax."

Without warning, he reached down and I felt his strong, calloused hands start at my ankles, gently probing, and moving upward along my calves slowly but steadily. My breath caught in my throat. I knew I should be afraid, but somehow I didn't care. His touch was so experienced, so sure.

When his hands moved up onto my thighs, I gave a slight shudder, and partly closed my eyes. My pulse was pounding. I felt his knowing fingers caress my abdomen, my ribcage.. And then, as he cupped my firm, full breasts in his hands, I inhaled sharply. Probing, searching, knowing what he wanted, he brought his hands to my shoulders, slid them down my tingling spine and into my panties.

Although I knew nothing about this man, I felt oddly trusting and expectant. This is a man, I thought. A man used to taking charge. A man not used to taking "No" for an answer. A man who would tell me what he wanted. A man who would look into my soul and say ... "Okay Mam," said a voice, "All done."

My eyes snapped open and he was standing in front of me, smiling, holding out my purse. "You can board your flight now."

Guest Author LK Below and Unveiling His Princess

2011-01-20T03:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations on you book! Why don’t you tell us a little about it.

Here’s the blurb for Unveiling His Princess:

When Natalia’s horrid stepsister locks her in a closet, steals her identity, and sets out to marry Prince Bennett in her place, Natalia nearly gives up hope. Luckily, she has a fairy godmother willing to guide her steps. Dressed in nothing but a mouse-skin pelt and assured that Bennett will recognize her even though they’ve never met, she sets out for his palace.
Prince Bennett knows that he must marry his princess, but when he meets her, something seems amiss. He cannot reconcile the lively, veiled beauty he consorts with at night with the waspish princess he meets during the day. And to make matters worse, he can barely fight off his attraction to a fur-clad scullery maid. Whatever will he do?

Read an excerpt or purchase the book at www.liquidsilverbooks.com/books/unveilinghisprincess.htm.

What draws you to write your genre and sub genre?

I write a bunch of different genres. I currently have a paranormal romance short story (His Familiar Touch) in the Paramourtal anthology, my newest is a historical romance with a fairytale twist, and I have a bunch of contemporary romance releases lined up for 2011. I also write fantasy and young adult -- the latter under my full name, Lindsay Below.

In short, I am drawn to many genres. I love stories that sweep me away to new places, eras, and worlds. So that’s what I endeavor to write. If through reading one of my books, you find your escape, I’ve done my job well.

Where can your readers reach you?

My website is www.lbelow.net and my blog (on which I post almost daily) can be found at http://lbelow.blogspot.com. I’m also an avid Tweeter. You can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/LBelowtheauthor. Or, if you’re just looking to send me an email, send it to lbelow(at)lbelow(dot)net.

Are you working on another book?

Always. I write obsessively, just about every spare moment I have. My computer is riddled with works-in-progress, which I work diligently to complete. At the moment, I’m slowly working on a full-length sequel to Unveiling His Princess, which I’ve titled Almost His Princess.

Do you work on one project at a time or mulitples?

Unfortunately, multiples. I’d like to be able to stick with only one project until it’s finished, but I often find myself broadsided by new ideas that need to come out. This means that shorter works, like novellas, tend to be finished quickly whereas I usually break for other works when working on a novel. Someday, I hope to finish them all.

Do you use more than one pen name? Why?

I have two pen names. L. K. Below is the name for my adult works -- my romance and adult fantasy. Whereas my young adult works are grouped under my full name, Lindsay Below.

What is your favorite thing about writing?

I am in no way a plotter, therefore writing a book, for me, is as much about being swept away in the story as the characters. I have little to no idea what is coming until I write it. Often I have a vague idea of coming scenes, but those ideas are easily swept away as I continue on.

How many books have you written? How many have been published?

Having dedicated myself to writing all through high school, I have countless books on the side that are in dire need of some trimming to get them ready to be published.

As it stands, I have 10 books coming out in 2011 so far. Now I’m working on writing and editing some for 2012. I was busy in 2010 and I hope to make this as productive a year!

How long does it usually take you to write a book?

Provided I’m not hit with any new ideas and that I don’t get stuck in a writer’s block, I can and have written a full-length novel in a week. More likely, it’ll take two weeks to a month -- or a week for a novella.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

Oh, certainly my characters. It wouldn’t be nearly as much fun for me any other way 

Thanks for having me, Rhonda!

Guest Author Sherri Desbois

2011-01-14T03:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations on you book! Why don’t you tell us a little about it.

Thank you so much Rhonda for allowing me to write on your blog. It’s my first interview ever. So I’m totally stoked. I feel like a celebrity.

Half Hearts is a story about three very broken people who have suffered neglect, abuse or heartache and trying to find love. It’s a steamy ménage a trois but it’s also about overcoming huge obstacles of pain to get to the pleasure.

Where were you when you got your first book contract? Who did you tell?

I was sitting out next to the pool reading on my ipod when I got an email alert. I nearly fell in the pool and I’m sure my neighbors all heard my screams.  I told my husband first.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

Ha Ha Ha…I have no clue what I’m doing so I hope someone is willing to give me some tips. Actually I think the best thing you can do is seek out other authors in your genre and ask questions. I have found that most are so giving and so willing to offer advice.

What is your guilty pleasure?

I plead the fifth on the grounds that I may incriminate myself. (And my Mom will probably read this post)

Where can your readers reach you?

At my homepage: http://www.sherridesbois.com/
On my blog: http://sherridesbois.blogspot.com/Or they can e-mail me at: sherridesbois@comcast.net
Oh and they can find me on facebook too 

Are you working on another book?

I am. I have two books in the works actually. One is about seventy percent done; the other is done but not quite ready to submit it. I’ll need to work up my nerve for that. I’m one of those people who read it over and over and still worry it’s not done. But hopefully I will get over my OCD and send it out soon.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

I do this is a scene from chapter one. Needless to say…Trevor is kind of pissed 

Excerpt from Half Hearts

“You no good rotten prick!” He shoved Kegan’s body against the bar a second time before the man could react. Kegan’s eyes grew wide with shock and the two little blonde bunnies yelped and jumped back in surprise.
“What the hell is wrong with you?” Kegan tried to remove the fists from his shirt, but Trevor had no intention to let go and he slammed Kegan against the bar again.
“I can’t fuckin’ believe you.” He jerked his head in the women’s direction. “Were you planning on fucking these two behind my back too?”
“What the hell are you talking about? What the fuck has gotten into you?”
“Don’t! Don’t even try your innocent bullshit on me. I just had the most amazing woman run from me like a scared colt because of something you did to her, and then I find you in here looking for your next conquest.” Trevor pulled at Kegan’s shirt again intending to slam him into the bar once more, but Kegan reached out, ripped the hands from his shirt and grabbed onto Trevor’s wrists. The two little bar flies looked from Trevor to Kegan and back again, then scurried away.
Trevor heard one of them say, “Told you all the good ones were either married or gay.”
Any other time he would have snatched them back and proceeded to show them just what his preferences were, but right now, he was just too pissed off to care what they thought.
“Trevor, I don’t know what the hell has gotten into you, but I suggest we take this outside. I don’t think Jack is gonna appreciate us upsetting his customers when we start bitch slapping each other.”
“Fuck you! You know what, it doesn’t fucking matter what you do. I’m outta here. You’re on your own. Maybe one can watch over you while you fuck the other.” Trevor spun around, wrenched his wrists from Kegan’s grip and stormed to the exit.
He punched open the door and kicked it closed behind him. He was so furious, he was shaking. He knew he was being unfair and should have let Kegan explain, especially after he’d seen the true confusion on his face. But he was still too pissed off about losing Charlie and how it felt to have Kegan rub it in his face by letting someone else stroke their hands all over him.
He leaned back against the brick wall, took deep long breaths and tried to get himself under control. He really felt like banging his fool head against the brick and knock out all the confusing images and thoughts. As soon as he closed his eyes, images of Kegan’s powerful body wrapped around Charlie tormented him and he snapped them open again.
Shit, shit, shit!
He couldn’t stand the thought of them together without him and his chest tightened further.
The bar door slammed open. Before Trevor could even blink, Kegan was standing directly in front of him, their noses nearly touching,
“Trev, you’ve got some explaining to do. What the hell’s gotten into you tonight?”
Trevor leaned his head back and refused to meet Kegan’s gaze. “Go away, I told you I’ve got nothing else to say to you.”
“Oh hell no you don’t! You don’t get to grab onto me, knock me around, insult me and accuse me of all kinds of shit then tell me to go away.”
Trevor’s head snapped and he pinned Kegan with a hard look. “Fine! What the hell did you do to Charlie?”
Kegan blinked slowly as if trying to process something his brain couldn’t quite grab on to. “Who the fuck is Charlie?”
“Don’t play stupid with me, Kegan. I met the most incredible woman I’ve ever seen and get her to agree to meet with us, but the instant she lays eyes on you, she runs like she’s seen a ghost.” Trevor ran his hand over the back of his neck to ease some of the tension. “Ah hell, Kegan, what the hell did you do?”
Kegan stepped back away from Trevor to lean against the wall next to him.
“I’m telling you that I don’t know what the hell you’re talking about. I can promise you, though. I have not fucked anyone without you since I was eighteen. You know I can’t. I have only met one girl named...”
Trevor felt Kegan’s body go rigid next to him and heard his sharp intake of breath. Every ounce of color had drained from Kegan’s face and his fists clenched so tight, his knuckles were white.
“Trev, describe Charlie.” he whispered, his tone so low, Trevor nearly didn’t hear him.
“Hell, Kegan, she was the most amazing woman I’ve ever seen.” Trevor could feel some of the anger drain from his body, only to be replaced by pure need as he closed his eyes and started to describe Charlie.
“She has straight, dark chestnut hair all the way down to the top of her ass. It’s like silk in my hands and smelled of amber.” Trevor’s body stirred and his erection pushed painfully against the zipper of his jeans as he remembered the feel and smell of Charlie.
“She was taller than most girls I’ve known, probably around five-nine, hell maybe even five-ten. She had the tiniest waist. I swear I could have spanned it with one hand. Her breasts were perfect. Not too big and not too small, ya know what I mean? I’m telling you, she had the most sensual body I’ve ever seen or been lucky enough to touch.”
He was so wrapped up in his own thoughts of Charlie, he absently reached down and palmed his throbbing cock, before he remembered he wasn’t alone. He discreetly tried to adjust himself to get a little more room in his jeans. An image of Charlie as she rubbed her tight body against him flashed in his mind and he had to stifle a moan.
A low raspy growl next to him brought him back from his thoughts. “Trev, God dammit describe her face.”
“Well...I don’t know how to describe her other than perfect. It’s hard to describe her look. I mean she had this perfectly fuckable body and this sweet, innocent looking face. The thing that blew me away most though was her eyes! They are brilliant green eyes and fucking took my breath away!” He reached up to touch the spot right below his right eye. “And has a tiny little birthmark right here that looks almost like a tear.”
Kegan slumped against the wall and slid down, ass-planted it on the ground. His breath left him in a rush shook so hard, it scared the hell out of Trevor.
“What the hell?” Trevor kneeled down next to Kegan. “Damn you look like shit! You okay?”
Kegan slowly looked up at Trevor, his eyes wild and took a couple of deep breaths before he responded. “Trev, remember when I told you about the one thing I missed from my life before I met you?”
Kegan dropped his forearms onto his bent knees, leaned his forehead on them.
“You just met her.”

You can buy Half Hearts HERE!

How did you come up with the title?

I came up with the title after I wrote the prologue. You know that saying …He/She stole my heart. Well when a heart is broken it’s still left beating in your chest but it’s no longer whole. Half Hearts seemed to be the best description for all three of my characters.

Do you use more than one pen name? Why?

This is a great question. I have mentioned to a lot of people that when I sat down to write this book I had no idea of what I was doing. It was a challenge to myself. I never dreamed in a million years it would get published. Being naïve I sent it in under my real name and never even thought to use a pen name. I’ve since read some great article and wish now that I would have used one. But nope Sherri Desbois is in fact my real name. I think that if I could give one piece of advice for someone writing their first book I would tell them to use a pen name.

Do you have a favorite character from one of you own books? Who and Why?

My favorite would have to be Kegan. He’s so abused and so unsure of himself. I just want to wrap him in a hug and protect him from the world. When I was doing edits I bawled like a baby for Kegan. His flash back to when he was a little boy was an extremely difficult scene to write.

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

Writing the love scenes are my favorite. Though, I have found that they are the most uncomfortable as well. It seems that my children or my husband get sixth senses about when I’m writing a love scene or a hot sex scene and come seek me out. You see where the uncomfortable part comes in.

Are any of your personal experiences reflected in your writing?
Quite a few actually. Charlie’s fear of flying is mine. In fact how she prepares for a flight is exactly what I do. Her past reaction to flying, embarrassingly actually happened to me.

Do you characters talk to you?

All the time though sometimes it can get a little hectic. I’ll be working on a story and a character from another story will bug the shit out of me until I give them my attention. I keep little notebooks with me at all times to jot down what the voices in my head are screaming at me. It’s either that or go completely insane and end up with a new jacket and a very nice padded room.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

Most certainly the characters control the story line. It’s funny when I sat down and started writing Half Hearts I thought I knew how the story would end. My characters surprised me and ended it the way they wanted too instead of the other way around.

Rhonda, thank you so much for all your great questions. I’m truly honored that you allowed me to do this. My first interview. YAY!

Nightwalker is available at Barnes&Noble Fictionwise

2011-01-11T20:11:00.000-08:00

Along with Liquid Silver Books and Amazon, Nightwalker is now available at Fictionwise, a Barnes and Noble company.
The Buy Link is HERE!

Ghosts of Christmas Past by Xakara

2011-01-07T03:00:00.000-08:00

Today we welcome Xakara on the blog who is also offering one of her backlists to one lucky commentor on this blog today. Let's get started.

Congratulations on your book! Why don’t you tell us a little about it?

Ghost of Christmas Past is a paranormal polyamory romance. It’s the story of PsiCorps Agent Torrin St. James who is wounded in the line of duty and left in a four year coma. He wakes to find out that everyone thought he was dead and the life he remembers is gone. Rather than a traditional boy-meets-girl, (or in this case, boy-meets-boy-meets-boy-meets-girl), it’s a friends-turned-lovers and lovers reunited romance.

Where were you when you got your first book contract? Who did you tell?

I was in my living room on my laptop reading the contract offer email. I’d gotten an initial email two weeks earlier letting me know my story had been passed on to someone else and to hold tight for a response. Despite the good vibe from it, I was on pins and needles until that official offer came.

The first person I told was my husband-like-person.

What draws you to write your genre and sub genre?

I write Erotic Paranormal Ménage, so there’s a lot going on there. Starting with paranormal, I can’t help but look at a scene and think there’s something hidden and otherworldly going on beneath the surface. I’ve always loved the paranormal and grew up with science fiction, fantasy and horror books, movies and television as a staple in my home. Stephen King was my introduction into horror and I love him to this day, but I didn’t feel it was right that being non-human automatically made a character a monster. That belief led to an instant love of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance.

On the erotic side of things, I got into that by default. I write bisexual characters in polyamorous relationships and feature open-door sex. It’s detailed but not explicit, but the bisexual element automatically defines the romance or urban fantasy as erotic by current standards. I used to hesitate to say I wrote erotic because I didn’t want to disappoint, but I’ve come to accept that there’s more room in the erotic cart than it appears and my brand of love-scene works well within it.

I write ménage because it’s my own little part of being a poly activist. I want to show that love is bigger than the standard boy-meets-girl we’re raised to believe. I present loving, polyamorous relationships because they exist and sometimes the hero or heroine doesn’t have to choose.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

Accept that you don’t know what you’re doing and take in every bit of advice and instruction that you can. Attend conferences and conventions if you can afford it. Take workshops and build your library of technique books, (or wear out your library card doing your research), and don’t feel you’re too good to do writing exercises. If you remain willing to learn you’ll find there is a world of resources and mentorships waiting for you.

Research, research, research! Learn everything you can about the agents, editors and publishers you want to submit your manuscript to down the line. There are safeguard sites out there to help you make informed choices. Preditors and Editors is a great place to check and Absolute Write allows you to ask as many questions as you need to and get varied feedback.

What is your guilty pleasure?

I don’t have any guilty pleasures. I fully revel in all the things I love. The closest thing I think others would classify as a guilty pleasure is my adoration of Supernatural fanvids *grin*.

Where can your readers reach you?

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/xakara
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/Xakara
Blog: http://xakara.livejournal.com/
Email: Xakara@Xakara.com
Website: http://xakara.com/

Are you working on another book?

I have two more PsiCorps novellas in the works. There are two Therian World novellas and a Therian World novel that follow up my first publication SHIFTING PASSIONS and I’m working on book one of the Angelic Prophecies.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

Torrin paced around him, defiant. Quintus reached out and took Torrin’s hand. “I’ve treaded as close to the line for you as I could and still do my job to keep you safe. No one’s had it easy, Torrin, but at least we can all get through it if you’d just sit down.”

Torrin looked down to where they touched. His large, dark olive hand made Quintus’s smaller, pale one look delicate. It was hard to make someone five feet eleven inches, one hundred and ninety pounds look fragile but at nearly six and a half feet and a slimmed two hundred and twenty pounds Torrin managed it. He let his thumb stroke the milky skin along Quintus’s thumb. His long-term memory was fuzzy, but of what he had he could count the number of times his Handler had touched him with bare skin outside of a medical emergency. This would be the eighth instance in twelve years Torrin could recall. Empaths in general didn’t like skin contact with people outside their Triads ... especially other Empaths.

Quintus stared at their hands as well, as if he couldn’t quite make sense of it. The silence grew. Thirty seconds, sixty, ninety seconds and then Quintus looked up at Torrin. Sky-blue eyes had gone glacial-white, and Torrin shivered beneath the Gaze. Sincerity and the echo of old grief moved up his arm from where they touched, while Torrin’s anxiety and loss moved down.

“I’m sorry, Quintus. I owe you everything, including the chance to be here and be an ass. I’ll sit down.”

Quintus blinked and only clear blue skies stared out at Torrin once more. “Thank you, Agent St. James. You have my sympathy. I could not imagine how this was for you. I wish I could make it easier.”

Their hands fell away from one another--a near autonomous motion that made them separate beings again. Torrin sat down and pulled the paperwork toward him. The hard copies became a blur as they moved from point to point in Quintus’s ever-methodical manner.

“How long?” Torrin gave no qualifier or context. He didn’t need to.

“The first six years. Until it was quite clear you could not see beyond Riley and Sky. There was no room for me and so I ceased looking for it. Being your Handler became enough, Agent St. James.”

Quintus never looked up. He passed another datapad for Torrin’s thumbprint and continued on with their task. Torrin wanted to push. How do you not push when you realize someone used to be in love with you? How do you leave it alone when in the touch of a hand your glorified babysitter becomes a well of lost potential?

The first day at PsiCorps, Torrin had imprinted onto Riley and Sky like a hatchling to movement. Each had dominated their psychic categories, setting records in CyberPsi and Psychometry that still held in the Corp more than a decade later. He’d been so dazzled and swept up in their skill and confidence that Torrin had never wondered about his choice. He had never considered what would have happened if he’d just sat at a different table for breakfast that first day; just one table over in the empty seat beside Quintus.

“This is the last set.”

Torrin nodded and took the papers and datapad. Quintus read off the pertinent points aloud, and Torrin took stock of the other man. Quintus’s hair fell in thick, raven waves that captured the light and threw back blue highlights. Skin, merely pale before, shone alabaster in contrast, clear and smooth; trapped in a youth that would not begin to wane for several decades more ... if then. Matte black lashes fringed midday blue eyes that sat large in his face, not quite balanced out by a strong nose and full mouth.

The curve of his neck, strong but almost slender; the set of his shoulders, masculine but streamlined, the body muscled but lean; men like Quintus danced the line between pretty and handsome. A rounding of the jaw, a certain set of the eyes, a half inch there and a quarter turn here, and Quintus had come down firmly on the side of pretty with handsome close enough to lean over and lay its head on his shoulder.

He’d noticed Quintus’s beauty before, on more than one occasion. But now his mind fought to put it in the context of a different choice, a life unlived.

“Will you require another Handler, Agent St. James?”

Torrin blinked. “What?”

“You’re staring, trapped in a thought cycle. There is a great deal on your plate right now and you have no time for what ifs. Do you require another Handler to get through the last of the trial or shall we move past this?”

Torrin nodded. “We’re past it. I’m fine.” He looked down at the papers and started going through clauses and signing agreements. Had he ever touched Quintus intimately before they became Handler and agent? He seemed to remember touching his face while they were shielded. Had that happened? The holes and blurs in his long-term memory gaped in mocking, but Torrin could almost feel the smooth skin glide beneath his hand like silk and cream, leaving the imagination open to what the rest would feel like.

“Agent St. James!”

Torrin looked up and fought to focus. He’d begun to trance unintentionally.

“Did I project?”

“Yes.”

Well, damn. Torrin rubbed his face and laid his forehead on the table. The cool wood calmed his thoughts. The scent brought to mind home and safety. He and Sky had bought a table similar to this one ... similar. Sky and Quintus shared a similar pale beauty, though Sky’s was darker, richer, aged ivory rather than new snow. But it had looked stark against the grain of the wood as they christened the new table. Would Quintus be even more striking against the mahogany? Would his cries sound as intimate and soul-searing off the unfamiliar walls of the safe room? Black hair spilling--raven feathers on wood--the way Sky’s had fanned like rubies tossed in the sun. No, in the snow, rubies in the snow, the two of them naked against the wood.

“Agent St. James!”

How did you come up with the title?

As a Christmas/Winter Holiday story, I wanted a title that immediately let you know what you were in for while tying directly into Torrin’s mindset. Being thought dead and knowing everyone has gone on without him, Torrin feels like a ghost and a piece of their past come back to haunt them. It was just a perfect fit.

Do you work on one project at a time or multiple?

I like the opportunity to work on one project all the way through, but I don’t often get that luxury. I write what comes to mind and since literally everything can inspire me, I end up with endless excerpts I have to take time to write up before they’re lost. I’ll claim both. When I get on a roll I can follow all the way to the end before something else distracts me, but there are definitely times before that roll where I’m pulled into other projects.

Is there one particular thing that you find challenging about writing?
Proper time management is the most challenging thing. I can get a lot done when everything is perfectly smooth sailing, but I rarely get smooth seas so things are often disrupted.

Who is your favorite author?

Stephen King.

What are you reading now?

I just finished The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown yesterday.

Are your characters a reflection on you or anyone you know?

I plead the fifth.

Do you use more than one pen name? Why?

Right now I only use Xakara. I would consider taking a new pen name if, overcome by fever, I suddenly wanted to write non-paranormal contemporary or historical.

What do you do to get in the mood to write?

Reading is the surest way for me to get in the mood for writing.

What is your favorite thing about writing?

I think more than anything, I like sharing the finished story and larger world with others.

If you were a supernatural creature, what would you like to be and why?

My first answer takes too much explanation so I’ll go with my second and say vampire. But I’m very particular about the type of vampire I’d want to be so my Maker would have to talk a very good game and deliver well. I can’t explain the allure of vampires because for me it happened well before there was a sexual component. I think as a child they seemed so sad that I wanted to be one to keep them company. As I got older it was a love of the idea of seeing the future and having the power not to be withered by the passing of the ages.

How long have you been a writer?

Are we only counting getting paid? In that case for two years; otherwise I started writing when I was nine.

How many books have you written? How many have been published?

I’ve written five, two are published, two are pending.

Do you have a favorite character from one of you own books? Who and Why?

I fell in love with Quintus from the new book Ghost of Christmas Past. There’s a vulnerability in him that just did me in. Of course I loved the entire cast on that point, but let’s not digress.

Over all I think Dante from BloodSprite is my favorite character. I love her willingness to sacrifice and extend herself for her beloveds despite having little faith she’ll be any good at being what’s needed. She also has this wonderful openness with everything about herself and those she loves and it’s something I hope to grow into as I mature.

What is the easiest and hardest thing about writing?

The hardest thing is sitting down to write. I have sleep issues and it makes getting to that moment of focus difficult. Fortunately, once I’ve got a pen in hand or my fingers on the keyboard, something is going to come out no matter how exhausted or unfocused I feel.

The easiest thing is coming up with ideas. In fact it’s harder to get my thoughts to stop flowing rather than to get going with plot concepts.

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

It can get tricky when dealing with multiple participants and figuring out who put what where; but love scenes themselves are easy for me. Is that scandalous?

Are any of your personal experiences reflected in your writing?

I don’t think it’s possible not to have some personal experiences seep into the writing. Since I write paranormal however, none of the stories are actually autobiographical…or are they?

How long does it usually take you to write a book?

There isn’t an average time for me yet. With enough caffeine and indulgence of my insomnia, I can do a 30k novel/la in a week. That said I’ve struggled with a 12K novella for months. It’s all about how fast the idea is flowing and how much time I can carve out to nurture the flow.

Do you set timelines when you’re writing or write when the feeling hits you?

I write when the mood strikes or when I can’t put it off any longer; whichever comes first.

Do you characters talk to you?

All day, every day, without any regard for courtesy.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

I plead the 5th.

What is your writing day like once you start a book?

I don’t have a set time for writing or a set number of pages I look for in a day. I write until I don’t know what comes next or until I’ve given myself a headache staring at a computer screen for several hours. After I sign off I keep a notebook handy for excerpts of upcoming scenes which usually leads me to whatever comes next when I write the following day.

Do you promo your backlists when you’re writing a new book, or dedicate your time solely to writing?

I have a backlist of one at this point so it’s not taking a lot away from new writing. Ask me again after I’m on release four and writing book five.

How many books do you write in a year?

As many as I can.

Guest Author Denise Agnew-For a Roman's Heart

2011-01-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations on your book! Why don’t you tell us a little about For A Roman’s Heart.

For A Roman’s Heart is set in 167 AD Roman Britain, in an area of England I actually lived in for three years. The hero is a Roman Centurion and the heroine a weaver who is the daughter of exceptionally cruel parents. Despite this, she’s a strong character. She still has flaws and insecurities, and I think that’s one of the things I liked showing about her. She’s got guts, but at the same time she’s learned things from childhood that she must “unlearn.” The hero is on the trail of a deserter, and the deserter is one nasty character. This book doesn’t pull a lot of punches and it’s very gritty. But it’s also very sexy and romantic. I love bringing the reader in touch with the history, too.

Is this part of a series? If so, how many books are in the series so far?

This book isn’t in a series.

Where were you when you got your first book contract? Who did you tell?
I was living in England at the time and I told my husband first. 

What genre do you write?

I write in almost every genre of romance there is, with the exception of inspirational. I also haven’t written urban fantasy.

Do you publish in both print and e-book? What are the advantages?

I haven’t published any books through a traditional NY publishing house. I’m with Samhain Publishing, Ellora’s Cave, and Liquid Silver Publishing. Samhain and Ellora’s Cave do have some of my books available in trade paperback. As far as advantages between small press/electronic and traditional publishing, it depends on whom you talk to as to advantages and disadvantages. I think the most obvious is that with traditional publishers your distribution channel has the potential to be much larger. With small press the advantage for me is being able to write several genres within romance, plus writing more stories out of the box. With the popularity of ebook readers increasing all the time, I see the problem with distribution narrowing somewhat.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

Learn everything you can, but at some point you’ll have to make decisions that come from the heart. What books do you want to write, and do you want to write for yourself first? To be true to yourself you’ll have to sit down and make a list of what it is you’re trying to accomplish and not let either people tell you what your goals should be. And I mean no one else. This is all about you. In the end, if you aren’t happy writing what you’re writing and who you’re writing it for, then think about writing something that you can get behind and that has meaning to you.

Where can your readers reach you?

I’m on Facebook an Twitter, but the best place is www.deniseagnew.com

Are you working on another book?

Absolutely. I’m actually working on more than one at a time. LOL.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

Sure! Here’s the blurb and a short excerpt for FOR A ROMAN’S HEART which releases January 4, 2011 at Samhain Publishing www.samhainpublishing.com
His scarred soul knows no vulnerability—except her touch.

Trapped between cruel parents and the need to hide her gift of second sight from suspicious villagers, Adrenia Tertia Brigomalla walks a line as thin as the threads she weaves. The need for independence burns fierce in her heart, but not as hot as her unexpected attraction to a Roman soldier who comes to the village in search of a deserter.

Though hardened by war, Centurion Terentius Marius Atellus defies any man to harm an innocent. Nothing shakes his relentless determination to track down a murderous legionnaire with a taste for young women. Yet Adrenia’s spirit and vulnerability spark a protective instinct stronger than duty…and temptation that could be his downfall.

Fragile trust built on stolen kisses and a premonition saves his life and drives his offer of the ultimate protection—marriage. While she revels in the feral passion he awakens within her, Adrenia would sooner brave the fires of Hades than trade one yoke for another.

It’s a decision that could leave them both dangling above a precipice they may not survive…

**
Adrenia’s lips parted, her breathing coming faster as she took in the men before her. Part of her wanted to step back, to run. She didn’t know these strangers, and anything could happen. Yet something about the centurion, an honor and integrity in his expression, told her she had nothing to fear. The other hulking man looked a bit larger than the centurion, and his dark eyes held amusement. She didn’t think he meant any harm. His closely cropped almost-black hair was straight and his face angular and long. He looked decidedly awkward, but she had a feeling he could be deadly given the chance. Some woman might consider him a bit more handsome than ordinary.
While she felt ambivalent about the optio, the centurion was a different story. Her belly fluttered as she took in the centurion’s rugged face. He looked rough and more than capable of killing mercilessly. A tremble wracked her body, and she hoped he couldn’t sense the fear she held so tightly within.
His thick dark brown hair, cut fairly short, held mahogany highlights. It curled against his head. Though his jaw looked strong, it wasn’t too wide, his mouth firm but not thin. His regal nose gave him a patrician air, but didn’t stand out boldly enough to make it too large. More than all these facial qualities, she noticed the powerful concentration within his green eyes. Dark brows sheltered his gaze and thick lashes fanned downward when he blinked.
Neither the centurion nor the optio dressed in formal battle wear. They didn’t wear helmets or mail armor. They wore white tunics, their gladius hung from a wide belt, their socks and closed-toe boots indicated they worked for the army. Their red cloaks also gave them away. The centurion’s gaze pinpointed her so intently a flush heated her cheeks.
She jerked to full awareness. They must think her an imbecile, she’d remained silent for so long.
“We’re assigned to the fort,” the optio said. “Are you from the village?”
She shook her head and gestured to one of the long, rectangular houses separated from the villa complex. “My father is a tenant on villa land.”
“Who is the villa owner?” the centurion asked.
“Decimus Caelius Cordus. You have come far,” she said. “You may be welcome at the villa if you require food and drink.”
“We’ll visit them another time,” the centurion said. “What is your name?”
His military brisk question demanded an answer. “Adrenia Tertia Brigomalla.”
She wiped her hand over her forehead as weariness weakened her resolve. Though the day wasn’t hot, her long walk to the neighbors and through the Haunted Woods had taken more from her than she first realized. She swayed, and she closed her eyes with one thought. Goddess, don’t let me faint now.
“Easy there.” The centurion alighted from his horse in a heartbeat. “Are you all right?”
She opened her eyes just as he clasped her shoulders. On the horse he’d looked large, but now he towered over her. He appeared as tall as Sulla, around five foot ten or eleven if she guessed right. Unlike Sulla’s rangy frame, this man possessed wide shoulders and powerful arms that reminded her of shelter, of safety. Automatically her hands landed on his chest, and the rock-hard strength of his muscles under her hands rippled as he moved.
Embarrassed, she drew her hands back and dared gaze into his extraordinary eyes. She expected to see pity there, but instead genuine concern warmed them. His unexpected caring threw her off kilter. She almost couldn’t speak. “I’m fine. I forgot to bring water with me on my long walk.”
He released her and went to his saddle and pack. He returned with a water skein. He handed it to her. “Drink.”
“But you need it.”
“Not as much as you. Drink as much as you like.”
She took one tentative sip, and when the liquid touched her lips, she realized how thirsty she’d become. She drank more, but stopped short of gulping. She wiped her mouth with the back of her wrist and returned the skein to him. “Thank you. You are most generous, sir.”
“Terentius.”
“I beg your pardon?”
“Call me Terentius.”
“I…”
“You’re thinking you shouldn’t. That it isn’t expected or right.” His gaze twinkled.
“Yes.”
“He hates it when people call him sir,” the optio said. “Take my word for it.”
She laughed, the sound slipping through her throat and out of her mouth before she could stop it. She pressed her hand to her mouth, half expecting his wrath to come down upon her. She never laughed.
She should never laugh.
Fear rose up like steam from a cauldron. Her breath grew short, her palms beginning to sweat. When he didn’t strike her and his smile grew wider, astonishment fought with intellectual reasoning. Of course he wouldn’t strike her. He didn’t know her. She fought with her fear, but it wouldn’t cease.
He frowned deeply. “You’re trembling. You are ill.”
She shook her head vigorously. “No. That’s not… I’m not ill.” The centurion unhooked his cloak and with one efficient move swirled the garment over shoulders and fastened it together with the large broach. The red wool cloak encompassed her in a musky man-and-leather scent both comforting and disturbing. “Sir, I can’t take this. It is improper.”
“You will take it.” The centurion frowned down at her, his hands arranging the wool so that it covered her entire body and almost came all the way to her ankles. “I can get another.”
His long arms rippled with muscle, and she stared too long at all his masculine beauty. She widened her eyes, and cleared her throat. “It’s unheard of. I couldn’t wear a soldier’s cloak.”
“You may insist on calling me sir, but I won’t relent about this. My mother and father taught me that women are to be cherished and protected.”
What could she say to that? Surprise held her immobile and almost voiceless at first. “I…I never heard such a thing.”
The optio’s thick brows arched upward. “Who are your people?”
She drew herself up to her full height. “Our people descend from the Iceni and the Catuvellauni.”
“Barbarians.” The optio nodded. “Of course.”
She didn’t know whether to feel insulted or not, so she stayed silent.
After a long agonizing moment where the centurion’s stare speculated, he asked, “Why do you hide your laugh?”
“It’s not proper for me to express it.”
He frowned. “What foolishness is this?” He looked back at the optio. “Have you ever heard such a ridiculous thing?”
“Strangest I’ve heard,” the optio said. “Seems like we’re talking a different language all together.”
“You don’t know my…” she started to say, then shook her head.
“Who?”
“Please, centurion. Leave it be. It is not your…business.”
He chuckled, and the sound came out rich and deep. It sent new pinwheels of heat through her loins. How could a man this dangerous inspire such confidence inside her? When he smiled, the whole world lit up. His green eyes sparkled. His straight white teeth and the dimple in his right cheek surprised her.
Then his gaze sobered, and she saw it. The look many a man gave many a woman, but had never been bestowed upon Adrenia in all her twenty years. His gaze traveled over her breasts, then slid down the rest of her body as if he could see through the thick cloak and shapeless tunica. The centurion’s undeniable interest found an echo inside her. She, too, wanted to trace his body with her gaze, to explore him as she’d never explored another man. Frightened by the intensity, she took three steps away from his powerful body and his masculine threat.

Last Call with Olivia Brynn

2011-01-03T03:00:00.001-08:00

Today I have Olivia Brynn on the blog couch and she has a very hot excerpt to share with us today.

Welcome to the blog Olivia! Why don’t you start by telling us a little bit about Last Call!

Thanks so much for having me! My latest, Last Call is a short story, a contemporary erotic with a bit of humor thrown in. Here's my short blurb: Eric didn't know what he was getting into when he answered his phone. A misdialed number and an inebriated woman make for a long Friday night.
Last Call is a fun little romp that made me smile while I wrote it.

How many books have you written?

Last Call is my fourth release, but my alter ego Alanna Coca also has four. I've got two in the queue, one releases next month, and the next soon after. I guess that makes six, so I beat Alanna!

Do you have a favorite character from one of your own books? Who and why?

Hm, can I pick a favorite character from each book? In that case I'd have to go with…oh. That won't work. Can I pick a favorite hero in each book? And a favorite heroine? That would be easier. I fall in love with them all. Wow, good question. Sorry I can't answer it!

If I were reading your work for the first time, which book do you suggest I start with?

I guess I'd have to ask you your preferences. I've got short and hot stories, two interracial books, a contemporary western…a little bit of something for everyone.

How long does it usually take for you to write a book?

If I actually sat down and turned off the Internet (haha) it would take me about a month, but that rarely happens. My first book For a Price took me four days, but it was only 26,000 words, and that book is the exception, not the rule. That didn't really answer your question, did it? Wow, I'm failing this interview!

How many books do you write in a year?

Again, that depends on the story, and the length of the book. During 2010 I wrote four, two are short, two are longer.

Do you promo backlists when you’re writing a new book, or dedicate your time solely to writing?

I was told that the best way to promote a book is by writing another. The deeper I get into this whole author-ing thing, the more I believe in that suggestion.

Are any of your personal experiences reflected in your writing?

There's a little bit of me in every heroine I write, but mostly they live out my dreams. Fast cars, hot men, Mexican vacations, and they're never pre-menstrual!

Where can readers find you?

My website http://oliviabrynn.com I'm on Twitter at http://twitter.com/OliviaBrynn and I share a Facebook page with Alanna: http://facebook.com/alannacocaauthor

Are you working on another book?

Always. Alanna has a few she'd like to write, and I really want to write the sequel to Falling Star, an M/M featuring Dean, the heroine Jade's best friend. I even have the perfect guy for him too. I can't wait for everyone to meet him.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

How about one from Last Call, at the beginning of chapter two, where the publisher's official excerpt leaves off?

Joanne smiled. Waking up in the warm embrace of a man had to be one of the best things in life. She snuggled against the hard body. Clothes? Andrew?
She opened her eyes, and looked up into the face of the man in bed with her. Strong jaw, whiskers, full lips slightly parted, and strong brow. It wasn't Andrew. It was Kevin's friend Joe, who had picked her up from the bar.
She moved closer, and closed her eyes again, listening to his deep even breathing, and the steady beat of his heart. Not many men would have driven across town to pick up a friend's little sister. Or treated her with the compassion he had. Kevin must be a very good friend of his. She'd have to grill her brother about this guy. She thought she knew all of his friends. Maybe Kevin was keeping her from him, knowing she'd be lust-struck. But he did send Joe to The Ranger.
She smoothed his T-shirt over the hard curves of his chest. Breathing in the faint remnants of his cologne, clean and masculine, like sandalwood and hickory, was a reminder that she didn't know him from Adam.
But he did smell nice.
And he looked nice too. Chiseled features only softened by sleep and a shadow of whiskers. A long narrow nose, slightly crooked—she imagined it had been broken at least once. Even his Adam's apple appealed to her. She traced the stubbly protrusion with a finger, fascinated at the movement when he swallowed. Still, he slept.
She slipped her hands beneath the T-shirt, encountering a smooth back. Very nice. Is the front smooth too, or ... no. Mm. Crinkly soft hair. She found a nipple in one tuft, and used the pad of her middle finger to tease it until it grew erect. When that wasn't enough, she gathered his shirt until she could dip her head beneath the sheet and taste that nubbin.
He groaned, and his hips bucked against hers, but he didn't wake up. Joanne smiled, and moved to the other nipple.
Her head still buzzed from too much alcohol, but this she knew. This she could focus on. Salty male skin against her tongue. She trailed her lips down rippled abs, and reached ... damn. Jeans. Undaunted, she worked on the button, then the zipper, which made a delicious sound in the quiet apartment.
She walked her fingers beneath the flaps of his fly, and under the waistband of his underwear, until his hot flesh filled her palm. The musky scent of man filled her nostrils, and made her mouth water.
He sighed, rolling onto his back. She followed, engulfing the tip of his cock in the same movement. She wasn't sure if he still slept, but his hips answered each pull of suction. When his jeans and underwear got in the way, she held him in her mouth, and used both hands to bring them down below his hips.
"Mm." Perfect. His balls were free. She reached down to cup them in her palm, roll them with her fingers. She wrapped her free hand around the base of his now fully erect staff, and squeezed.
"Holy shit."
He was awake.

Woo! Is it hot in here? Awesome excerpt Olivia! Thanks for sharing it with us today!

Also by Olivia:

Happy New Year! 1/11/11

2010-12-31T14:39:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year Blog Hoppers! Your on your way at a chance to win a KINDLE! Thanks to everyone who has supported my writing endeavor and I hope to share more SINS novel stories with you in the coming year! Don't forget to join us for the Author's Chat on Jan 2nd at 7:00 EST. Add yourself as a follower of this blog for upcoming author interviews. I've posted a new Nightwalker story below to go along with the photo to whet your appetite!

Leave a comment on this post for a chance to win a free copy of Nightwalker, A Leah Wolfe SINS Novel. The first book in the series!

Don't forget to check back in here www.RhondaPrint.Blogspot.com at at www.RhondaLPrint.com for updates on the release of the second book in the series!

Buy NIGHTWALKER, A LEAH WOLFE SINS NOVEL AT LIQUIDSILVERBOOKS.COM OR AMAZON.COM
photo compliments of Aaron Rohde http://aaronrohdephotography.com/

Our tongues danced together and I revelled in the taste of Justin, and, more importantly, the sweet taste of victory.

Finally! I thought to myself and quivered in anticipation. By the time Justin opens his eyes and realizes that he has just sealed his fate, and fulfilled my destiny, it will too late.

Too late for his pathetic girlfriend, Chloe; well ex-girlfriend, thanks to my meddling; to reclaim Justin and definitely too late for Justin to withhold his power of sight from me any longer.

I cracked my eyelid open, just enough to see Alicia and Elijah, toasting in the New Year, one that would have solidified their place in this dominion had I not been able to secure Justin and his gift as my bloodslave. It is too late for them too.

And Artemis, poor misguided Artemis. He sat at the bar alone, holding his glass of scotch securely in his hand. The last drink he would ever imbibe.

In moments the final bell will strike, heralding The First Year, 1/11/11, my year. The lights will be swallowed by darkness. Then Artemis’ blood too will be shed. I’ll open his carotid artery with my fangs and swallow every drop, savor it as his blood pulses into me, the warm power seeping into my own veins.

I felt the muscles in Justin’s neck twitch at the same moment that the sensation crept down my spine. Shit!

My eyes flew wide, searching the crowd for the only two people on this planet that could ruin me.

Blackness.

Then a sliver of light, just enough for me to see the blood.

Only it wasn’t me swallowing Artemis’ precious blood. It was my blood, flowing crimson down my chest as I lie in the back room of the bar with only a window to show me the outer room. The outer room where Alicia and Elijah stood flanking Artemis. Bear and Mouse, ever the faithful bodyguards, protecting them all.
And Justin, embracing Chloe. Damn!

“How did you know?” I turned my head back as far as I could, still only able to see a small portion of Ian’s face. Leah stepped into my view and then I knew the answer to my own question.

“It was of no use for you to try and separate us.” Ian shared a look with Leah that I could only guess at. “It doesn’t matter who tries.” He kept his eyes on her as they swirled blue-black with pinpoints of light blazing in them. “It cannot be done. We are bound together.”

Leah sighed. Whether in defeat or acceptance I could not tell.

“Besides Victoria.” He flashed a sinister smile, exposing his own fangs. “I could smell your evil stench anywhere.” Ian turned those dark eyes back on me. They would likely be the last things I ever saw. Unless-,

The lights flickered...

If you've fallen off the blog bus or just stumbled onto it and want to start from the beginning click on http://JustRomance.me

Disenchanted Christmas by Sandra Sookoo

2010-12-28T03:00:00.000-08:00

Congratulations on you book! Why don’t you tell us a little about it.

Thanks! My latest book is entitled DISENCHANTED CHRISTMAS and is a mix of historical and paranormal goodness. Here’s the blurb:

Christmas in 1899 starts as a joyless affair. Bethany Cundiff has hit a rough patch of life. While caring for her young niece and nephew, she’s evicted from her residence and fired from her job ten days before Christmas. To make matters worse, a gentleman who desires her company for the holiday, and has the money to back up the promise, propositions her for sex.

Blake Wenchal is a disenchanted elf that’s been banished from the Northern Realm and Santa’s court because he’s lost the spirit of compassion and charity. Lonely from years spent by himself, he’s thrown off balance when Bethany accepts his ill-advised offer of paid bed mate—except she arrives on his doorstep with children in tow.

Neither one counted on the power of love, acceptance and the miracle of family to make the holiday unforgettable.

Buy link at Liquid Silver Books: http://tinyurl.com/237tu4s

Where were you when you got your first book contract? Who did you tell?
Oh Lord. Let’s see. That was over 2 years ago. A couple of days before Thanksgiving, late in the day. I received the news via email and called my hubby to let him know. My husband is always the first one that gets the news LOL

What draws you to write your genre and sub genre?

The challenge of it all. I love to push myself to write in different genres to keep the brain sharp. Besides, I never know how far I can go unless I try it at least once.

Do you have any tips for new writers?

First, you won’t learn how to write unless you…write! If it’s something you’re dedicated at, you’ll write. And remember, writing is a huge amount of work and learning. Keep that in mind and proceed.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Playing any of the LEGO games on Xbox LOL

Where can your readers reach you?

My website is the best: http://www.sandrasookoo.com. From there you can link to my blog, Facebook and Twitter.

Are you working on another book?

LOL I’m always working on another book! Right now I’m 2/3 through a new sci-fi romance. After that I’ll be back to historical for a bit.

Do you have an excerpt you’d like to share?

Always! Here’s a brand new excerpt from DISENCHANTED CHRISTMAS:

"Do the kids know you are the benefactor?" Bethany's eyes were wide and round in the weak light, much like John's, and just as vulnerable. "Do you not want accolades?"

Did he? Perhaps years ago he had. Now? Those things were simply not as important as they had been before. He made the toys because he enjoyed the work.

Her gaze held his, sure and steady, and his conscience urged him to blurt out his secret. In the end, his courage deserted him and he sighed.

"Only the headmistress and my neighbor, Mrs. Abermarle, know. I do not want praise or public approval. It is my way of helping those less fortunate."

"You are truly the most selfless person I have ever met." Without warning, she threw her arms about his neck and hugged him. "You then extended that same kindness to me and my children when you were within your rights to toss us out into the street."

For the space of a few heartbeats, he did nothing. He couldn't. Happiness bubbled within his chest from her touch, her closeness, and it was as if he'd always been with her, as if he always should be.

The deep blue of her eyes drew him deeper, closer, until he had no desire to move. If he were honest with himself, he hadn't believed he'd have the chance to hold her in his arms after his behavior. When she didn't seem inclined to pull away, he gripped her waist, looked again into her eyes and gently lowered his mouth to hers.

Her lips were velvety soft and enticed him, spurred him to further exploration. Settling her more firmly in his arms, he teased her mouth with his tongue, ran its tip along their seam until they opened from his insistence. Bethany made a tiny sound of pleasure and tightened her grip around his neck. That little mew nearly drove all reason from his mind and he deepened the kiss, as if he'd been there before, but every second he embraced her was new and exciting. For every stroke and thrust of his tongue, she mimicked the actions until he broke their connection out of necessity and stepped away before his erection could strain against her stomach.

One more kiss and he'd be compelled to go much farther.

To give up everything. Even now, his ears tingled, a sure sign they would resume their normal shape if he lost control.

He wanted to lose control. It had been a long time.

He held her at arm's length as fear and elation played for dominance within him. "If everyone is as thankful for my work as you, maybe it would behoove me to let the deeds be known."

"Regardless of what you would receive, I do agree you should at least tell someone." She gave him a grin that shot prickles of need through his gut to lodge in his groin. "Why keep the secret?"

If only she knew the extent of his secret.

"I like the comfort of anonymity." If she insisted on gazing at him with that wide-eyed innocence, they would be up the stairs and tumbled in his bed before the night was over. Once that event occurred, he would not be able to keep his identity covered any longer.

How did you come up with the title?

Well, I knew the hero was a disgruntled sort of person, and the title just sort of fell into place after that.

Do you work on one project at a time or multiples?

I usually try to keep it to one project at a time. If something really jumps out at me from a different project, I might change directions, but one is enough if I want to do it right.

Is there one particular thing that you find challenging about writing?

Learning all the different nuances about the craft. I want to learn all I can as fast as I can but sometimes that’s not possible and I need to be patient LOL

Who is your favorite author?

I have many favorites in different genres. It’s difficult to pick just one.

What are you reading now?

At the moment, nothing. I’ll take up pleasure reading again after Christmas.

Are your characters a reflection on you or anyone you know?

Many times my heroines hold aspects of me. Sometimes a secondary will take on a persona of a friend. Once a heroine was modeled after one of my friends and her exploits LOL

Do you use more than one pen name? Why?

No pen name. I’m not embarrassed about anything I’ve written and if other people have issue with what I write, that’s their problem, not mine LOL

I totally agree. I don't use a pen name either. I'm very proud of my work.

How long have you been a writer?

I “wrote” my first “book” when I was 10. After that, I could always be found with a pen and paper. It has never stopped LOL

How many books have you written? How many have been published?

LOL Oh Lord. I think the published number from this year is like 21. Pop into my website to see what I’ve been up to.

Do you find love scenes difficult to write?

That depends on the book and/or the characters. Some are more difficult but in the end, it’s just another scene. Write it and move on.

Do you characters talk to you?

LOL Sometimes I dream about them. If it’s something I really need to remember, it’ll wake me up and I’ll have to write it down.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters?

I write an outline prior to doing the whole book but it’s like a guideline and is subject to change depending on what the characters do.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2010-12-24T12:04:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and thank you all for your support!

Shiloh Walker guest authors' today!

2010-12-18T03:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my blog and thank you for taking time out your very busy schedule to talk with me. Beg Me was released in November, why don’t you tell us a little about it?

Um… it’s kinky. Very kinky. But it’s also a romance. The heroine had a very hot love life with her husband before he was killed in an accident. A year after his death, she was raped. Since then, she’s barely been holding it together—she exists, doesn’t really live and she’s tired of it. She decides she going to take her life and her fantasies back and she turns to the one guy she knows she can trust. What she doesn’t know is that he’s had a thing for her for years. It’s not an easy story though…it’s not one that will appeal to all readers.

Who controls the storyline, you or your characters? Generally, I start it. They take over.

What draws you to write you genre and sub genre?

I like romance…always have. As to subgenre, I don’t have any particular set one—I bounce all over the place. I just get bored easily—short attention. 

Do you work on one project at a time, or multiples?

Usually 2-3 projects at a time.

Do you set timelines when you write, or write when the feeling hits you? I don’t set timelines, but I tend to be more productive in the afternoon.

How many books have you written?

Around 60 works are completed—some are novellas, some are short stories, some are full length works.

Is there a particular thing you find challenging about writing?

All of it… LOL

What is your writing day like once you start a book?

I’m always working on a book. But afternoons are generally my writing time. Mornings are for email, website stuff, online stuff, and errands. I usually stop working around 5.

Where can your readers reach you?

Through my website… http://shilohwalker.com/website or shilohwalker@gmail.com
Now for the less serious questions. If you were a supernatural creature, what would you like to be and why?

Eh, none of them. Too many weaknesses. I like who I am, like my life…I have no desire to change it.

What are you reading now?

Nalini Singh’s Archangel’s Consort and I just finished Allison Pang’s A Brush of Darkness—it was wonderful.

I read on your blog about a Marine and his unit wishing to have letters and Christmas cards sent to them. I think that is a wonderful way to thank them for putting their lives on the line so that we can celebrate Christmas and everyday in peace. We should keep that spirit going all year round. I'm sure cards, letters and care packeages are always appreciated. Would you like to share the address with us?

Sure… it’s

1stLt Joseph Mazzara USMC
1/10, Battery B
Unit 73330
FPO AE 09510-3330

That’s the addy I received from a friend who works with an SOS unit out of Ohio. Right now, that’s about all the info I have though. I can’t help with other needs they might have, other than I know they can use baby wipes. Beyond that, I don’t know if care packages or anything are needed…sorry!

Enjoy an excerpt from Beg Me

“I want to ask you for a favor,” she said, staring at him over her wine glass.

Drake told himself he could get through this—he told himself he wasn’t about to lose it, thinking about how sexy and sweet she looked in a short, flippy little tan skirt that left too much leg bare. He told himself he wasn’t all but drooling as he thought about the breasts under her close-fitting, clingy black top. He also told himself the dinner had been delicious, but he couldn’t remember what it tasted like or what he’d even eaten twenty minutes ago. Some kind of chicken. He thought. Or maybe pork. Right?

No, he was too focused on Tania, and the fact that she was sitting three feet away from him. Too focused on the fact that his cock was throbbing like a bad tooth and had been ever since she’d let him into her apartment an hour earlier.

Her words rang in his mind. She needed help—finally, though, something real, something physical he could focus on. That would really help. Maybe her car needed a tune-up, that was easy, although why she’d felt the need to cook for him just to ask for that, he didn’t know.

“Anything.” He tipped his beer bottle back, wetting his throat. Fuck it, she looked so beautiful. She was sitting so close, he could smell the scent of the lotion she’d slicked all over her skin. Good enough to eat, and that’s just what he wanted to do, too.

She grimaced and said, “Maybe you should put the beer down. Stop drinking for a minute because I don’t want you to choke when I ask.”

“Okay.” He smirked a little and leaned forward, setting the bottle on the table. “Although I don’t know what you could ask that would surprise me that much, Tania.”

“Five years ago.”

Okay—maybe I was wrong. She can surprise me.

Drake grabbed the bottle. “I think I need the beer,” he muttered.

She smiled. “Five years ago,” she said again. “You know what I like.”

He shifted his gaze to her, all too aware of just how little distance separated them, all too aware of that short, flippy skirt, of the sweet scent of her skin…and just how acutely he remembered things from five years ago.

“Do you remember?” she asked, her voice low and quiet.

“Yes.” How could he forget that?

No Longer Mine is due out February 1, 2011, what can you tell us about it?

It’s the print release of my ebook that came out from Samhain. This is actually a re-issue, and one of my older books. It’s the first romance I’d written. Not sure what else to say… it’s a reunited lovers sort of story and people either tend to love this book or hate it… lol

Thank you for joining us today Shiloh. It's been a pleasure!