Naughty Author Chicks

Why Reader Reviews Matter

2012-01-30T09:19:00.002-05:00

I was riding high a few months back, enjoying lots of five star reader reviews on Amazon for Employee Relations. I didn't really think much about it, but I was totally jazzed that so many readers were enjoying the book. Then came an awful, one star review. The person said the story sucked, she despised the characters and I was a terrible person for writing it. (Okay, maybe I am exaggerating a little, but it was pretty bad.)

I was dejected. Forget that the vast majority of those who'd bothered to write a review had given the book glowing recommendations, what stuck with me was that one person hated it.

But when I checked a few days later, another great review showed up. The reader said she was so glad she didn't listen to the previous reviewer because she absolutely loved the book. It was then I realized how much reader reviews influence purchases.

Another of my Kindle books had a single review at the time. The reader said that she didn't normally buy books without any reviews, but was glad she decided to take a chance. That got me thinking, too. Not only do good and bad reviews influence purchases, but so does the absence of reviews.

What do you think? Do reader reviews influence what books you buy? Do you leave reviews for books you purchased online? I'm starting to do more and more of them. Why? They matter.

SEDUCING OFFICER BARLOWE - The First Book in My Hot New BADGE BUNNIES Series!

2012-01-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

I'm going to lt you in on a little secret. I love writing about cop heroes! (See GOOD COP, BAD GIRL; PROTECTIVE CUSTODY; THE CUTLER BROTHERS SERIES, SAMANTHA and the DETECTIVE!) There's just something about a man in uniform, I guess. Especially the ones who come with their own handcuffs!

So, to embrace that, I'm starting a new series called THE BADGE BUNNIES SERIES. It's all about women who have a thing for hot and sexy cops, and the first book is called SEDUCING OFFICER BARLOWE.

Happy Reading!

Gotta Love a Guy Who Comes with His Own Handcuffs!

Harley Miller has always fantasized about having sex with a cop. So, when hunky Royce Barlowe comes to her rescue after her car breaks down, she can't resist flirting with him. One thing leads to another and soon she's kissing him.

Going further than that right there on the side of the road is crazy and impulsive, not to mention reckless, but neither one can help themselves and soon he's cuffing her hands behind her back and fulfilling her wildest fantasy - which turns out to be hotter than anything she's ever imagined.

Excerpt:

“I have a confession to make, Officer,” she said softly.

He drew her bottom lip into his mouth and sucked on it. “Is it something I’m going to have to arrest you for?”

An image of him pushing her up against the wall and frisking her popped into her head, and she stifled a moan as her pussy spasmed. “I don’t know.” She trailed her fingers down his abs to caress his belt. “Is fantasizing about having sex with a hot cop a crime? Because I’ve fantasized about it for a long time.”

Officer Barlowe’s eyes took on a deliciously dangerous glint. But instead of kissing her again like she’d thought he would—or even unbuckling his belt and pushing down his pants so he could slip that magnificent cock of his in her pussy—he lifted her down from the car’s hood and spun her around.

Harley threw him a confused look over her shoulder. “What are you doing?”

His sensuous mouth quirked. “Playing into your fantasy.”

She opened her mouth to ask how he intended to do that, but all that came out was a soft, “Mmm,” as he slowly ran his hands down her body and back up again.

“If I were going to arrest you, I’d first have to frisk you,” he whispered in her ear. “Just to make sure you weren’t concealing any weapons.”

His breath stirred her hair, making her shiver.

“Nope, no weapons here.” He cupped her breasts, giving her nipples a squeeze through the fabric before slipping his hand between her legs. “What about here?”

She moaned as he thrust a finger in her pussy and wiggled it back and forth.

“No weapons here, either.”

He slid his finger out to fumble with something on his belt. Harley was about to look over her shoulder to see what he was doing when something cool and metallic snapped around her wrist. Handcuffs. A quiver of excitement raced through her as he gently pinned that arm behind her back and cuffed it to the other one.

She caught her bottom lip between her teeth. This was even better than her fantasies.

He put his mouth to her ear again. “Spread ‘em.”

Buy it on Amazon Kindle!
http://www.amazon.com/Seducing-Officer-Barlowe-Bunnies-ebook/dp/B0071DO4YC/ref=sr_1_37?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1327500378&sr=1-37

Buy it at ARe!
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-seducingofficerbarlowethebadgebunniesseries-673931-144.html

Buy it on B&N Nook!
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/seducing-officer-barlowe-paige-tyler/1108368442?ean=2940014017145&itm=20&usri=paige+tyler

*hugs*
Paige

"Stories so hot, they'll make your cheeks blush!"

http://www.paigetylertheauthor.com
http://paigetylertheauthor.blogspot.com

East Coast vs West Coast

2012-01-26T03:15:00.000-05:00

I’m taking a trip to the west coast next month, so I have California on the brain. I’m a west coast to east coast transplant, and there are a few oddities that still stand out, even after almost 20 years. Ready?

What I miss about So Cal:

Mall w/Starbucks every 500 feet
Not having to own a winter coat
Great Mexican food! Mexican food costs $12 - $16 a plate on the east coast, yet it still tastes like crap. It’s better now that we have Chipotle’s and Anna’s (not so close by), but when we first moved here it was only one Taco Bell, 15 min away, that made their bean burritos ahead of time and put them in a warming oven when you ordered it. Ugh! Now they make it fresh, but put 50% onions in anything you order. It’s still an improvement.
In N Out Burger. Sorry, but 5 Guys Burgers isn’t even close.

What I don’t miss about So Cal:

Mall w/Starbucks every 500 feet
The weather. I know, I know, and there's that whole not needing a winter coat thing, but it really starts to suck when it’s 80 degrees EVERY day, including Christmas. It’s just not right.
Too much food at my fingertips. And my thighs. And my ass.

Differences that Still Drive Me Crazy:

Cuts of beef: Why are cuts and roasts, while exactly the same, called something different? I know there are different types of cows, but when it comes to where the meat is, a cow is a cow is a cow.
Hellmann’s mayo vs Best Foods mayo: It’s the same damn thing. Literally. Hellmann’s is bottled by Best Foods, so why can’t they just call it Best Foods?
Jimmies: They’re sprinkles, folks. Who the hell is Jimmy, and why would I want him to sit on my ice cream?
Ant (sp) vs Aunt: Yes, the east coast wins this one. It is spelled Aunt, and should be said Aunt.
Directions west coast: "You take the 101 S to the 5 N." East coast: "You take 95 S to 128 S, but you're really going N until you hit 93 N, which will take you S."

There are others, I'm sure, but like I said, these still stand out after 20 years. Other things I've gotten used to, and even prefer. After all, until I moved here, I'd never even heard of a fluffernutter.

So which do I prefer? Overall, I'd have to say the east coast. The way of life here simply fits me better, weather and all. This is home.

Sexiest Memory

2012-01-25T14:15:00.004-05:00

I just got completely distracted in the middle of writing a scene, due to a flashback of one of my all time favorite memories of my hubby.

It's no secret I love catchers, and my main crush is the Boston RedSox captain, Jason Varitek (pictured at left), who probably played his last season in 2011. But even before Tek came into my life, I fell in love with an even sexier catcher.

Back when I was a national level fastpitch softball pitcher (seems like forever ago!), when I couldn't get a catcher to work with me between our insane game/practice/tournament schedule, my man used to catch for me. He first offered when we weren't even dating yet. I didn't know him all that well at that point, so I wasn't sure how seriously I could take him. I mean, what if he sucked at catching and I hurt him? Like, really hurt him? I'd broken catchers' fingers before and left serious contusions when they didn't snag up a pitch in the dirt quick enough. I remember being really skeptical about throwing to him, but since I really needed the extra work, I took him up on his offer and decided I'd just start out gently and see how things went.

I think it was that day that I truly started seeing him as something other than a friend. Squatting behind the plate wearing a catcher's mask, easily handling anything I could dish out at him, he was something to see. I'll never forget what he said to me after we warmed up a little. He stood up to stretch his legs at one point and tipped his mask back up on his head to give me a sexy little wink before tugging his mask down. Dropping back into his crouch, he slapped his fist into his glove and held it out as a target, saying, "Come on, baby, hit me."

*thud*

I was done for, right then and there. Instant, chemical lust, people. He was the sexiest thing I've ever seen in my life. Ever. To this day, thinking about him back there makes me all tingly :) I think it was that day that changed things between us forever. It took a few more months for us to start dating, but the all important groundwork of friendship was already there.

Not only was he fabulous as a catcher, he was also incredibly supportive. He came to every game and away tournament, no matter how far he had to drive or fly to get there. He'd help out with the other pitchers occasionally too, and all the girls liked having him around. I think they all were a little in love with him, but I was the one that got to take him home every night. Lucky me :)

Any of you have really strong memories like that about your significant other? Would love to hear about them!

Muppet Marathon

2012-01-23T06:00:00.009-05:00

My family has a new-found love; watching old episodes of The Muppet Show. We've borrowed seasons one, two and three from the library and introduced our kids to this gem of a show. It's like nothing that is televised today. I'd even go as far to call it wholesome. I've never been a fan of wholesome, and perhaps this show doesn't quite fit that description, but compared to what passes for kids' shows today, it's downright pure. Yet, everyone in the family (even me with my less than vanilla and mainstream tastes) can find something to enjoy.

The recent release of a new Muppet Movie piqued our children's interest in rediscovering this old series. As much as I despise relying on Hollywood as a mechanism to spark my children's love of something new, there have been some instances when a good movie has opened the door to even new worlds of books for kids. And that's a success as far as I'm concerned.

Our newest family game is to list our absolute favorite and absolute least favorite Muppet. Some of the favorites in our household include Kermit, Rolph the dog, the crotchety old guys in the balcony (Statler and Waldorf), Animal, the Swedish Chef, Beaker and Doctor Bunsen Honeydew. Miss Piggy consistently ranks as least favorite. I understand why that's so, although I find it a shame that the sole leading female Muppet is so easily despised. It's one of the shows great weaknesses.

On top of the great Muppet performances, it's kind of fun to watch the famous stars of the 1970's and 80's sing along with the characters. They never tried to steal the show from the Muppets, but graciously played their goofy roles and displayed low-key versions of their prodigious talents to help fill up the air-time for this variety show.

I wish something like The Muppet Show still existed today. Would you watch? And by the way, who is your favorite and least favorite Muppet?

Hee hee. Technology, fun and other stuff...

2012-01-21T09:50:00.000-05:00

I can identify with anyone who has trouble with technology. However, some things are easy and fun...even for techno-phobes like me.

I just took a course from a social networking expert recently, and she made the point that I've suspected for a long time. People enjoy the "social" aspect of social media. That means, yes, they do want to see a picture of the cute sandals you just scored for 8 bucks. You should be careful what you put out there though. Say you just got back from vacation, not that you're going away for a week with the whole family. Crooks do look for these things. And never fill out the profiles with actual identifying information...especially if you write sexy stories!

Constant promo is obnoxious. That's another item she pointed out. It actually turns people off. I've never been good about blogging anything but business, so I resurrected a cheeky advice column I had tried a while ago. I enjoyed the heck out of this, and if WE enjoy our social media (blogging, facebook, twitter, etc) so will others.

Check out my tongue-in-cheek advice column if you have a chance and please send your own letters to ashlynchase@gmail.com I won't reveal your real identity even if tortured.

I hope I delivered the best advice possible. See what you think?
http://ashlyn-chase.blogspot.com/2012/01/new-question-douche-bags.html

Now, because I did just have a novella released, I want to make folks aware of that too. Ironically, it's about a 300 year-old immortal who can't keep up with technology and wants to off herself because of it. (Ever felt that way?) LOL http://www.jasminejade.com/p-9862-immortally-yours.aspx

Too Much Technology

2012-01-20T01:52:00.000-05:00

By: Casey Crow

A buddy of mine sent an email to me. It’s one of those joke email that gets forward around, and although I’m probably breaking all kinds of plagiarism laws, it was so dad-blame funny, I had to share. And since recently I was explaining to my son what the phrase “Imitation is the best form of flattery” means, I’m thinking I’ll defer to that sentiment regarding this post.

Now this senior citizen is fed up with technology, and sadly, I have to agree with him. I don’t have the age excuse either, so that makes it worse so here’s to those of you like me who are not blessed tech savvy skills.

When I bought my Blackberry, I thought about the 30-year business I ran with 1800 employees, all without a cell phone that plays music, takes videos, pictures and communicates with Facebook and Twitter. I signed up under duress for Twitter and Facebook, so my seven kids, their spouses, 13 grand kids and 2 great grand kids could communicate with me in the modern way. I figured I could handle something as simple as Twitter with only 140 characters of space.

That was before one of my grandkids hooked me up for Tweeter, Tweetree, Twhirl, Twitterfon, Tweetie and Twittererific Tweetdeck, Twitpix and something that sends every message to my cell phone and every other program within the texting World.

My phone was beeping every three minutes with the details of everything except the bowel movements of the entire next generation. I am not ready to live like this. I keep my cell phone in the garage in my golf bag.

The kids bought me a GPS for my last birthday because they say I get lost every now and then going over to the grocery store or library. I keep that in a box under my tool bench with the Blue tooth [it's red] phone I am supposed to use when I drive. I wore it once and was standing in line at Barnes and Noble talking to my wife and everyone in the nearest 50 yards was glaring at me. I had to take my hearing aid out to use it, and I got a little loud.

I mean the GPS looked pretty smart on my dash board, but the lady inside that gadget was the most annoying, rudest person I had run into in a long time. Every 10 minutes, she would sarcastically say, "Re-calc-u-lating." You would think that she could be nicer. It was like she could barely tolerate me. She would let go with a deep sigh and then tell me to make a U-turn at the next light. Then if I made a right turn instead. Well, it was not a good relationship..

When I get really lost now, I call my wife and tell her the name of the cross streets and while she is starting to develop the same tone as Gypsy, the GPS lady, at least she loves me.

To be perfectly frank, I am still trying to learn how to use the cordless phones in our house. We have had them for 4 years, but I still haven't figured out how I can lose three phones all at once and have to run around digging under chair cushions and checking bathrooms and the dirty laundry baskets when the phone rings.

The world is just getting too complex for me. They even mess me up every time I go to the grocery store. You would think they could settle on something themselves but this sudden "Paper or Plastic?" every time I check out just knocks me for a loop. I bought some of those cloth reusable bags to avoid looking confused, but I never remember to take them in with me.
Now I toss it back to them. When they ask me, "Paper or Plastic?" I just say, "Doesn't matter to me. I am bi-sacksual." Then it's their turn to stare at me with a blank look.

I was recently asked if I tweet. I answered, No, but I do toot a lot."

Us senior citizens don't need anymore gadgets. The TV remote and the garage door remote are about all we can handle.

Taking Care of Family

2012-01-19T22:16:00.001-05:00

The ICKs are being passed around at my house. Almost all my nieces and nephews have been out sick and I've had to play cook, chauffeur, maid, and babysitter...

My mother was hit with a bug today so I was worried that she'd have to be hospitalized once again so I've been monitoring her all day. While she slept, I decided it was time to do some Chinese New Years cleaning...humm, never tackle anything on a whim. In my case, I get a little obsessive. I basically dismantled and moved my king sized bed out and rearranged the entire room to help with the Feng Shui. Inspiration has been kind of lacking and I can't seem to stay focused for very long. I'm a firm believer in energy and I knew it wasn't flowing well in my work space but I let it go due to my busy schedule. After hours and hours of cleaning, I'm pretty satisfied with the results. The mood and atmosphere has totally improved and I can say the energy is stronger than ever.

Let me tell you, I should have gotten off my butt and done this a long time ago! Sometimes it just takes a little bit of initiative to get you back on track. Have you made improvements in your own work space and did it make a difference for you?

The Diary of Lady Eve Marlowe comes to Italy

2012-01-18T00:02:00.001-05:00

Texting...emails...smart phones...with all the digital footprints taking up our time these days,does anyone keep a handwritten diary?

I've always enjoyed novels where diaries take centerstage and the reader has the opportunity to read over the heroine's shoulder and sneak a peek into her private thoughts.

These days it's called "twittering."

I find it interesting that Harlequin Italy is reissuing my diary novel, Cleopatra's Perfume, in a "3-in-1" novel package this month called ISTINTO DI PIACERE (Instinct of Pleasure).

Cleopatra's Perfume features a diary written by a titled Englishwoman and how she became a spy for British Intelligence during World War II.

She also has a secret--she's not British after all, but...oh I can't give it away! I couldn't peek into my heroine's diary and spill the hill of beans...never, dahling.

But I will give you a sexy excerpt from Cleopatra's Perfume:

This diary belongs to: Lady Eve Marlowe

London, Mayfair

March 31, 1941

My life is in danger, but that won't stop me. I must go to Berlin. Yes, I know it's dangerous, considering the country is run by a monster marching against the world order and devouring innocents like a dragon spewing fire. He's destroying everything in his path with flames of hatred and prejudice and he may destroy me, but I have no choice. If I fail at my mission I will die, as will others, but I've made preparations for a way out should death come too close to me. One so unbelievable I must write it down, for if I do not, no one will ever know what happened to me and the extraordinary journey I've taken. No one but you, dear reader.

          It all began in 1939 when I refused to slip on the somber elegance of a widow's veil, an act I undertook with the same rebelliousness that had ruled my young life. Unwilling, un-virginal, and undaunted by an empty bed I was determined would soon be filled, I set out to find adventure. I was lonely, though at twenty-nine I'd traveled the world and seen its wonders as well as its weaknesses. I'd met my late husband, Lord Marlowe, who was thirty years my senior, years earlier when I was stranded in Cairo after what The London Times society page called "an unfortunate incident with renowned archaeologist Lord Wordley's expedition into the Valley of the Kings," insinuating I'd been on a dig with the famed explorer and his group of posh thrill-seekers. Nothing could be farther from the truth, but I will leave the reality of what happened to later telling. All you need to know is I have a history with Egypt far removed from my peerage as Lady Marlowe.

          I had arrived in the Near East as a girl of twenty in a time when rebellious girls dressed in red satin trunks and short tops and sat at tables in seedy cafés, sipping highballs in squatty glasses with men seated around them, their hungry mouths drawn back in drunken smiles while someone struck the same chords over and over again on an upright piano. I'm not ashamed of what I did during that those wild days of my youth, but nor do I wish to recall them here. So, dear reader, whoever you are, be assured I knew what to expect when the liner stopped for stevedoring in Port Said and I disembarked from the ship. Known as a city of sin, rice and women are its main commodities. Port Said harbors a white slave trade flourishing in its hidden places, bars, and houses where young girls languish and perish under the thumbs of men.

          I also discovered another secret in this city at the entrance to the Suez Canal, how a woman can forget her loneliness and indulge in the most delicious sexual adventures, so decadent I bring myself close to orgasm thinking about it, my pen shaking as I lay it down and unbutton my white silk, wide-leg trousers and insert my fingers inside me and stroked myself… panting, hanging in anticipation of what I know will come if I continue rubbing the hard ridge inside me, my body gyrating in time with the movements of my fingers as I circle my clitoris. I open my legs wider to allow my fingers easier access…

Which brings me back to my original question: Diaries. Does anyone here keep a handwritten diary? Did you in high school or college?

Better yet, do you still have it? Willing to share? We want details, juicy details...

Dangerous Desires, by Brenda Williamson ~ Chapter 36

2012-01-17T00:01:00.001-05:00

Dangerous Desires

(Click the title to go back to Chapter One)

by Brenda Williamson

(A Free Read ~ A Work in Progress)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Thirty Six

Valentina’s watched Nathan for a moment. She understood his good character encouraged him to be helpful. He had certainly succumbed to her wiles with a little prompting. But were his motives purely manner driven? Or had the lure of Sara Parker’s heightened heat, her heartbeat, her flow of energy attracted him?

Disturbed by Miss Parker’s motives, Valentina rubbed her tongue against the throbbing base of her fang teeth. She looked down at the cup of tea in front of her and concentrated on having patience. Nathan would return shortly.

Then the laughter of the woman snapped her around. She stared at the dark alcove under the staircase. Where had Nathan gone? What was taking him so long? Her imagination drew a picture for her, an image she had seen long ago of her father and a young, auburn-haired scullery maid.

Valentina had gone to the cellar to get her mother a new box of soap powder for her bath. When she came back up the stairs and heard her father’s voice, she thought to wait. She didn’t like him, and often avoided his drunken wrath by avoiding him. To watch for him to leave, she peered through the large keyhole. There she saw her father holding one of their scullery maids. His hands were all over her, pulling her clothing open, touching her.

Shocked, Valentina continued to watch. Her father must have though he would be alone for a while for the extend in which he took his sexual exploits that day. Or, now knowing him the way she did, he probably didn’t care if he got caught.

Valentina then pictured Nathan in the scene.

The woman circling him, her touch eliciting his moans. Her hand moving around his hip and rubbing the front of his crotch, connecting with the bulge of his erection as if it were a natural gesture.

With graceful turns of her hands, she nimbly opened his trousers and took a possessive hold of his cock and freeing it from his clothing. Excitement groaned from him as he grabbed her face, kissing and tonguing her plump red lips.

Then she’d push him away and drop to her knees. Instantly, she would pushed her lips onto the tip of his erection. He’d slid his hands against the sides of her head and tangle his fingers into her hair. He would hold her steady, thrusting his cock into her mouth. He would forget everything, everyone around him.

Valentina bolted out of the chair, shaking the images out of her head. Jealousy unhinged her collected manners. In a rush to stop Sara Parker from pleasuring Nathan, she bumped the table too hard and the tea cup danced on it’s saucer. As she placed her hand on the cup to stop it, someone touched her shoulder and she swung around.

Nathan reached passed her and saved the cup from crashing to the floor, but the tea still splashed on her.

“Are you all right?” he asked.

“Yes,” she snapped, angered by Miss Parker’s scent on him. Valentina brushed at the wet spots the tea had made on her skirt. “Excuse me while I go to the powder room and freshen up.”

“I will get someone to clean up this mess and get you another cup of tea,” Nathan said, unaware of her plans to confront the strumpet.

“No. I do not need more tea. We can go when I come back.” After one step, Valentina paused. She looked at the path that she needed to take. The morning fog had lifted and a ray of sunlight crossed the middle of room.

She surveyed the room for alternatives and selected an indirect route where she’d stay within the bounds of the shadows. She circled tables and slid behind chairs against walls, careful to avoid the sunlight. Then she hit a dead end. The lack of a way around the glimmering bright streak of light forced her to consider returning to her table.

Then she heard the sound of the lady laugh. She looked the dark alcove. A man emerged with a goofy, satisfied smile—grinning the same way her father had when he was finished with the scullery maid.

The woman followed him out. She wiped her finger along the corner of her mouth.

A whore. Valentina’s thought, her suspicions confirmed.

The woman’s eyes sparkled mischievously as she stared across the room in Nathan’s direction. Valentina looked back at Nathan. His gaze was on the woman.

Rage fueled Valentina’s determination. She willed the woman to return to the powder room. It didn’t take much thought. The woman turned around and returned to the darkness.

Shielding her face with her gloved hand, Valentina stepped through the sliver of light. Smoldering spots appeared on her exposed skin. She shuddered from the sting, but continued forward, entering the dark alcove and stopping the doorway of the powder room.

The woman turned around. "Pardon me,” she said, confusion in her eyes. “I don’t know why I came back in here.” She laughed. “Some days I think I would forget to dress, if not for the morning chill reminding me.”

Valentina shifted closer, moving like the hunter she was when her prey was within reach. Her skin palpitated and she touched her cheek to find out if it really pulsed, but nothing moved beneath her fingertips. The throbbing beneath the surface, flowed to her lungs. They expanded and contracted with each breath she tried to control. She extended her arm and put a finger to the woman’s neck.

"Don’t talk to him again." Valentina warned with menace, her fangs long and exposed. "And no harm will come to you."

Miss Parker’s eyes widened with alarm and her jaw trembled with fear.

Satisfied, Valentina retracted her fangs and smiled. “Now go, while you can get away."

Valentina stepped aside and let Miss Parker out of the small room. She glanced up at the hazy movement in the mirror on the wall and waited for the ghostly outline of her image to solidify. At times it worried her when she couldn’t see her reflection. Even though her mother said no one else could see her transparent the way the mirror displayed, Valentina worried they might.

..............Read more in Chapter 37 on Jan 31th

Brenda Williamson

$50 Jewelry Shopping Spree Giveaway

Think Time

2012-01-16T03:00:00.004-05:00

I try to go on walks early in the morning to clear my head, to think of new ideas or new twists on old ideas! Sometimes I'll see a bird or a family or something random that will spark the kernel of a plot. So just for grins, I'll share my scenery with you.

Above is a tall pine tree where an eagle likes to perch sometimes.

This is my favorite house along the way.

Lake views...

What inspires you? Is it scenes from nature, music, art or something else?

Back from the WDW Marathon!

2012-01-13T00:00:00.000-05:00

We're back from the WDW Marathon!

We've done a few half-marathons there and decided we needed to try a full, and we're so glad we did! All the training we did paid off. Not only was it a great run, but it was so much fun! It helped that the weather was fantastic. We got lots of pics with characters along the course - one of my favorite things to do at Disney. There are a lot of characters out you don't usually see at the parks, which is cool. We couldn't stop for pics with every one, of course - didn't want to mess with our pace or get stiff - but we had a couple we were on the lookout for, namely Louie from Princess and the Frog and Goofy's son, Max. They were both on the course and we totally got pics with them! We also got a pic at the twenty-six mile mark! LOL! Oh, and we got cool Mickey medals for finishing!

And we went to the parks, too! Where we got pics with more characters!

Can't wait to do it again! And maybe, after we get a few marathons under our belt, we'll go crazy and do the Goofy Challenge, where you run the hal on Saturday, then the full on Sunday!

*hugs*
Paige

"Stories so hot, they'll make your cheeks blush!"

http://www.paigetylertheauthor.com
http://paigetylertheauthor.blogspot.com

Oh Crap. Am I A Twilight Mom?

2012-01-12T03:15:00.001-05:00

Why did I avoid the Twilight Series?

I’m too old to think Robert Pattinson is hot. (He was good in a movie I recently saw called, Remember Me, tho. Depressing as hell movie, but he was good.)
I already did teen angst to the nth degree in real life.
I’m not 12.
My preferences lead more toward erotica.
Saw Bella in the movie trailers. I already did whiny teen to the nth degree in real life.
Jacob is hot, not that I was looking at his face. But did he have to be shirtless in every scene?

I did finally see the 1st two movies last year, when we got a free HBO weekend. I thought they were ok, but I didn't get the obsession. There were even parts I didn't understand and I had to ask some teenage girls some questions when I was left with...questions. Whatever. I was done. Or so I thought.

When Breaking Dawn came out in Nov last year, I got sucked into seeing it with 2 friends, only one of whom is a fan. How did she get me to go? We went to one of those fancy restaurant theaters where we sat in plush seats and had lunch. She paid for the tickets. Yeah, I'm not proud, tho the other friend and I did pick up her lunch tab. I'd never been to one of those theaters before and I was ok with never spending money for those extras. But I was giving in return here, remember? I had to sit through another Twilight Movie.

About that... Dammit, it was really good! I was hooked through the entire movie. Worse, I found myself accepting my friend's generous shove of her copies of the books down my throat. See, she had an ulterior motive, too. She was tired of being the only admitted Twilight Mom in my town and she figured her friend who writes was her best bet. The other friend wasn't swayed.

I started reading the first oversize book a few nights later, and I liked it ok. It was totally readable and likeable (sorry, Stephen King!), but about halfway through the book I kind of lost interest. Thanksgiving and the Hellidays were coming, and I was way overbooked. I didn't read a lot of it in the weeks leading up to Christmas, but I did trudge forward.

That feeling changed toward the end of book one. I can't put my finger on it because I was so fried from the Hellidays that I didn't notice when it first started. Somewhere in there, I began looking forward to going to bed so I could read more, and I was thinking about the characters during the day! I finished the 1st book and devoured the 2nd. I'm over halfway through the 3rd now.

One of the biggest surprises was finding out that things I had found annoying in the movies suddenly made more sense. For instance, I was rolling my eyes through the movies every time Edward got all angsty & uptight whenever he "smelled" Bella. In the books - as in all books vs movies - there is so much more depth to the actions. Her scent to him was an integral part of the entire story. It wasn't simply to have angst in each scene.

Most of all, I didn't understand why Bella would choose Edward over Jacob. Jacob seemed so much more fun and interesting and less angsty in the movies. And those muscles! In the books, it shows so much more depth of character. You come to understand Jacob's youthful playfulness matches his level of maturity, while Edward is...well, he's a man. He should be, considering he's about 100 yrs old.

So do all of these revelations make me a Twilight Mom? I guess so. I'll let you know for sure when I've finished devouring the series and go out and buy my own set in paperback. Oh, and we got another free movie weekend and I found the 2nd and 3rd Twilight movies and recorded them. I can't wait to see the 2nd one again & the 3rd for the first time, knowing what I know now. I just have to wait until my teenage boys aren't home so I don't have to listen to them pretend to vomit.

Touch Me

2012-01-11T04:00:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year to you all! How's 2012 treating you so far? I had a new release come out from Carina Press called Touch Me, and it features a yummy alpha military hero in a friends-to-lovers story that I hope will melt your heart along with your panties :)

Blurb: Arriving home on leave from his tour of duty, Army Captain Alex Montoya knows there’s a beautiful woman waiting for him—his best friend’s sister. She’s always been off limits…until now. He fully intends to move them out of being “just friends” and encourage her to release the sexual needs he senses she’s buried deep.
Tianna McIntyre is starting over after her marriage ended. Her ex-husband weakened her self-esteem and caused her to deny her true sexual desires. But being around Alex brings all her dormant fantasies to the surface, and now Tianna feels the stirrings of her secret, submissive wishes.
Determined to help repair the damage Tianna’s ex did to her self-worth, Alex will use whatever means necessary to convince her they’re meant for each other, including tying her down to make sure he has her full attention while he takes her to the heights of pleasure she’s always dreamed of…

Excerpt:
She swallowed, mouth too dry to speak.His seductive touch wreaked havoc on her nervous system, but she was still unsure of his motives. Did he feel sorry for her now? Was she so lonely and desperate for his touch that he could tell?
“Alex.”
“Hmm?”
“What are we doing?”
His thumbs pressed deep on a spot that made her toes curl, and she bit back a moan. “Enjoying each other. Is that okay?”
She nodded. But was that all they were doing? Was that all she meant to him? She’d never had a fling. Didn’t think she could be just that to Alex.
Those clever fingers stroked higher, behind her knee, and paused. Her heart drummed loudly in her ears as she stared at him. God, she was already wet and throbbing for him, and all he’d done was touch her leg.
“Stop.”
She licked her lips. “What?”
“Stop thinking.”
Impossible. Her brain was whirring like a runaway carousel.
His fingertips moved a few inches higher, up her inner thigh. “Just feel.”
More than the words, the tenderness overlying the command in his voice sent a ribbon of heat curling through her. Her leg muscles drew tight while he continued to caress her over-sensitized skin in a lazy, slow pattern. Lighting up her entire body with no effort at all.
Alex’s eyes seemed to glow in the soft lamplight. “Feel good?”
She nodded, afraid to speak. God, it’d been so long for her. She wasn’t sure she could get through this without crying. He meant so much to her. This meant so much to her. But under the heat the nerves crept back in, those vicious little doubts that pricked her with sharp claws.
You take too long. You’re too much work.
You’re not sexy enough.
You’re not even wet. You need serious help. Her ex’s voice.
The hand around her ankle firmed, and she sucked in her breath. “Your skin’s so soft.” He sounded almost reverent, and it made her throat ache. Watching her, almost daring her to look away, his fingers trailed back and forth over her inner thigh, just inches from the edge of her damp thong. “I’m going to ask you something, and I want you to be honest with me.” When she didn’t answer, he finally spoke again. “Are you wet right now, Tia?”
Blood rushed to her cheeks, engulfing her face in heat.
His eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled slightly. “Are you?”
She didn’t know how to respond. If she said yes when he’d only been touching her legs, would she look pathetic? Chickening out, she broke eye contact. “Alex…”
“Tell me.” The heat of his fingers seemed to brand her skin.
Avoiding his gaze, she stared hard at the blanket covering her lap and nodded, praying it was the answer he wanted.
“Look at me.”
The ring of command in his voice brought her head up. What she saw in his eyes stole her breath. They were molten, full of raging hunger. For her. The knowledge shocked her.
“I’m going to keep touching you,” he said. “I want to find out what makes you squirm, makes you beg. And what makes you come for me.”
His words wrung a primal shiver out of her. She couldn’t believe what he was saying. How could he be attracted to her when he could have any woman he wanted?
His fingers paused, resting hot against her thigh. “Unless you want me to stop.”
“I don’t want you to stop.” Her voice was a mere thread of a sound.
One side of his mouth curved up. “Okay. But I don’t know what you need unless you tell me.”
Her heart fell. He expected her to say it out loud? The thought terrified her. “What I need?” God, did he somehow know about her secret fantasies? Did he think she was depraved or weird?
He nodded slowly. “I want to know what you need from me. Romance and candlelight aren’t my style, querida, but I’ll give them to you if that’s what you want.”
The endearment made her lower belly flutter in desperate longing, gave her hope. He’d never called her that before. “I don’t need them.”
One coal black brow rose. “Yes you do, and you deserve them. But that’s not the real me.”
Her throat dried up, her heart skipping frantically. Was it possible he wanted the same thing she did? “What…what’s the real you?” she asked before she could stop herself.
A sardonic smile curved his mouth. His tempting, edible mouth that had given her such pleasure this morning. “Not sure you’d like the answer to that.”
Oh yes, she might. Gathering her courage, Tia sat up and placed her hand over his. Her pulse hammered in her ears. “Then show me.”
*end excerpt*

I'm going to give away a digital copy of Touch Me to a commenter here, so to enter please leave me a comment about one of your fave steamy reads in the past year. I'm heading to Mississippi tomorrow to visit the fabulous Katie Reus, and since I'm deathly afraid of flying, I'd appreciate any hot recs that I can download to my Kindle to keep me somewhat distracted while I'm helpless and 30,000 feet in the air. *shudder*

Lordy, Lordy…

2012-01-10T05:00:00.001-05:00

So recently I finished Nalini Singh’s new book, Lord of the Abyss. It’s Book 4 in the Royal House of Shadows trilogy for Harlequin Nocturne. Oh. My. Lamb. Is it breaking a commandment to have book envy? Thou shall not covet thou fellow author’s mad skill…

Let me tell you, Lord of the Abyss was an experience. In a nutshell—and we’re talking pistachio-size, here—the series revolves around the four siblings from the royal house of Elden, a mystical kingdom. The Blood Sorcerer conquered the kingdom, but the king and queen saved their children by scattering them to different places. Now the four heirs must return to the kingdom and restore it to a place of peace and prosperity before time runs out—literally. Nalini Singh’s novel tells the story of Micah, the youngest heir, and Liliana, the Blood Sorcerer’s daughter. How many elements did Nalini Singh touch on in this book? True beauty being on the inside. Adversity can breed strength.Nature vs. nurture. Love will always conquers evil. Spiders are STILL big-ass scary freaks of nature.

She is a natural, master storyteller. And that’s what drew me in. From the words, “When I…” she wove a tale that dragged me from the very depths of horror and pity and rocketed me to the heights of joy and triumph! I was taken for a ride. And in a good way! Which brings us back to my book envy. One of my father’s favorite author is Khalil Gibran—I’m going somewhere with this, I swear. Just bear with me. Daddy claims it’s because every word that Gibran uses is perfect and needed. It’s the same with Nalini Singh. Every word, every description, is perfect. Nothing is wasted and each is needed. She awes me!

Every writer should have another author that inspires them. An author. As individuals we all have people we admire and who motivate us. But as writers we should have someone who made us want to write in the first place. Who, after reading their books, make us say, that is the brilliance I’m aiming to obtain. I am not the same writer as Nalini Singh—we don’t write the same genre and our voices are different. But it is her ability to weave a magical spell of words that pulls emotion and dreams from her readers that I allows me to declare without shame, “Nalini, I’m not worthy!” But doggone it, one day, I will be!

What author stirred that creative seed in your soul? Who inspires you today?

Why Ride the Subway with Pants?

2012-01-09T06:00:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was the worldwide No Pants Subway Ride event. Riders in major cities across the world casually rode the subways without their pants. (Underwear on, however.) The event was began by Improv Everywhere ten years ago, a group with goals to "elicit laughs" and cause "scenes of chaos and joy" with no political agenda.

Afterward riders met in select bars for festivities to mark the event.

Reading about this important social behavior got my brain spinning. So what if a couple met on the subway during this random, bizarre event? Maybe they both were without pants. Maybe only one of them was participating and the other struck up a conversation with him about his pants less state. Interesting story inspiration. I'm filing this one away as possible short story fodder. Pants less subway love.

Now tell the truth. Were you on public transportation yesterday without your pants? I only wish my day had been that interesting.

The Scarlett O'hara Effect

2012-01-05T17:41:00.015-05:00

By Pageant Guru Casey Crow - yeah I said that.

Those that know me are fully aware I pretty much have five passions in life – my kids, writing, dancing, working out, and pageants. Today, I'm going to talk about the latter since Miss America is coming up on Jan. 14th. I know this because it's in permanent ink on my calendar.

I think my first pageant experience was when I was five, but really got the bug when I turned fifteen. I’ve competed on the local, state, national, and international levels and in every sector of pageantry you can imagine. In college, I participated in the Miss Universe and Miss America systems. A huge highlight was competing in Miss Alabama for several years. I was Miss University of Alabama, an honor I still have no qualms bragging about! Another special title for me was Miss International Motorsports Hall of Fame. The title is long, but getting to meet Jeff Gordon (sigh!) as well as other famous NASCAR drivers and ride atop the Pace Car to open a Talladega race made memories I’ll never forget.

Fast forward to present day – I’ve been a pageant coach for over twenty years with a dang impressive track record. I've got two gorgeous young ladies competing in a few weeks for Miss Alabama Teen USA, the preliminary to Miss TEEN USA. I also work as a professional emcee and judge (Miss America certified) and big surprise, my daughter has been competing her whole life.

To give you a little history, a unique American tradition began in 1921, as a promotional gimmick when Atlantic City, New Jersey, hotelmen decided to stage a flashy fall festival, or “pageant” to entice summer tourists to stay in town past Labor Day. On the boardwalk, “the most beautiful bathing beauties in America,” strutted their stuff. Newspaperman Herb Test said, “Let’s call her Miss America!” Eight contestants competed with Margaret Gorman, who represented the nation’s capital as Miss Washington D.C., won. The sixteen-year-old schoolgirl was a dead ringer for reigning matinee superstar, Mary Pickford. Talent became mandatory in 1938 and scholarships were first awarded in 1945.

The next big pageant came along in the 1950’s when Miss America 1951 Yolande Betbeze refused to pose in a swimsuit, insisting that she was a classical singer, not a pin-up. (BTW, she is a native of Mobile, Alabama, where I live and still looks amazing!) Officials supported her decision, but main sponsor Catalina Swimwear quit and started the sexier Miss Teen USA, Miss USA, Miss Universe, and Mrs. World. In case you don’t know, Donald Trump now owns those systems. I also think it’s rather interesting to note that these systems were the first to work for world charities, even beginning in their earliest year of 1951, while Miss America is now better known for supporting its national platform, the Children’s Miracle Network, along with each contestant’s personal issue.

Basically in the United States, Miss America and Miss USA are the premier two pageants. Many others exist including those for women of all ages, single, married, divorced, minorities only, plus size, and even senior citizens. There are pageants for teens and children young as zero. The first international pageant for children was staged in Miami, Florida, in 1960. It was Little Miss Universe.

To be blunt, pageants are a way for the owners/directors to make money. Most, particularly those involving children, most likely began when someone got mad about something and broke away, founding another system. Each new system had a new set of rules regarding dress, make-up, modeling, talent, etc. That’s why you now have everything from all natural (no make-up and minimal sparkles) to glitz (think Toddler’s and Tiara’s). It’s true, in glitz pageants, spray tans, flippers (fake teeth), hair pieces (extensions and/or wigs), Tammy Faye Baker make-up, and lots and lots of rhinestones are not only necessary, but required to win. Glitz pageants are the ones giving away cars and ginormous crowns. Talent is usually optional while “fancy” modeling rules the runway. Even boys can compete!

The more natural ones opt for scholarship money. Most of them and the middle-of-the-road (a little make-up) pageants focus more on talent and are considered to be Youth Development Programs (YDP) as opposed to a “pageant” where you win a crown and go home. That's the kind my daughter does. YDP’s provide a “reign” and not only for the winner, but all contestants involved have the opportunity to participate in parades and entertain at various festivals, fairs, and other venues throughout the year. This provides opportunities to be on stage (or doing backhandsprings on a flat bed trailer as I often did) and try out different talents or work on public speaking skills. A girl may sing one number and dance the next. That usually means changing with a few mamas holding up beach towels to create a dressing room. Who said pageant life was glamorous? Participants also meet political leaders and take part in charitable events. Friendships are formed and competing many times becomes secondary to having fun with friends.

Opponents to pageants say they degrade women and children, turning them into puppets and sex objects. Contestants often develop eating disorders and spend way more money than they ever receive, even in the popular scholarship based Miss America and Distinguished Young Woman (formerly Jr. Miss – which does not consider itself a pageant, but for argument’s sake, I’m including it as a scholarship source for young women). They say that pageants encourage women/girls to not be their true selves, but a made-up version, which encourages excess plastic surgery. The Jon Bennett Ramsey incident still haunts us, but her parents maintained, as the vast majority of pageant parents do, that this is hobby. Boys play baseball. Girls put on pretty dresses and smile.

Proponents argue that pageants develop poise, self-confidence, and talent. Lynn Maggio, 2011 Mrs. Alabama International believes, “pageantry has given me the confidence to explore other opportunities. It has contributed to the way look and feel, put me in the public eye, and helped me use the abilities and talents I have that otherwise I would not have been exposed.” Laura Newton says, “I have two daughters that have competed in pageants for the last ten years. I can see a difference in their self-confidence, ability to speak in front of others, and their ability to interview well. I feel they have grown from this experience socially and mentally.” I can attest that pageant experience gives you the skills to think on your feet and speak in front of a crowd with zero prompting and preparation. In 2010, Miss Alabama 2010 Ashley Davis http://www.missalabama.com/ and I were emceeing together. There was probably an hour of technical difficulties, but the show never slowed or stopped because we were able to adlib, interview each other and audience members, speak on our personal platforms, tell jokes, and entertain. (Thank you Ashley!)

Those skills translate into other areas of life. For example, having been interviewed in front of judges at a pageant makes a job interview a cakewalk because pageant judges are famous for asking (1.) General pageant questions (What is your ambition and why? What three words best describe you? (2.) Current events (How do you feel about the US government’s involvement in Iraq? Name your Senator, Congressman, and the president’s daughters.), and (3.) Stupid pageant questions (What kitchen utensil best describes you? If you could be a car, animal, color, flower, etc. what would it be and why?). Don’t forget you have about two seconds to come up with an intelligent reply. Interview questions make you think on your feet and develop the skills to articulate opinions. Research has shown that pageant participates do well academically in school because of the discipline pageants develop. Girls must practice their talent, modeling (yep, I’ve walked around my house with a book on my head in pajamas and high heels), and study up on interview (read the newspaper and watch CNN). Other advantages are increased interest in community service and volunteerism, bonding time between parent and child (unless you have one of those moms), and increased in physical health (no jiggly thighs in swimsuit). It’s important to mention that Miss America’s stance on the swimsuit competition is they keep the tradition, not because that’s how the pageant got its start, but because the American public expects its winner to be beautiful and physically fit.

So why are pageants so popular in the South? The entire top five in Miss America 2009 were all southerners (including Miss Alabama!) and as much as we like to think Southern Belles are just plain prettier, that’s not the case. Pageant judge Cheryl Bonner coins Southerners’ appreciation of beauty as The Scarlett O’Hara Effect. Foo foo hairdos and fancy dresses come from that old Southern Belle look which we southerners have been exposed to all our lives as a form of beauty. In essence, we love our traditions. Since pageants have been around for nearly 100 years, it makes sense that we would love parading that beauty around and watching it.

What’s your take on pageants? My eight year-old pageant veteran advises, “Be sure to wear a slip because those dresses itch so bad you’ll feel like a cheetah is attacking you!” Why do you think we are obsessed with pageants in the South? Do you have a pageant experience you want to share? I’ll go first and admit my most embarrassing story. Before evening gown competition in a Miss Alabama preliminary, I went to the restroom then went on stage with my dress tucked in my panty hose! Thankfully, the dress was full and created a bustle of sorts. Here’s another memory. Luckily, they have all these fancy pasty gadgets nowadays, but back in the day, one had to tape their breasts for extra perkiness. I used cloth first aid tape, but once I was out and used Duck Tape. Can you say pain? There was not enough baby oil in the world to make getting that stuff off hurt any less. I’ve had “wardrobe malfunctions” too that would make Janet Jackson look G-rated, but simply tugged on that top back in place and kept on dancing. I’ve even made the mistake of going to the restroom after swimsuit competition and let me say that spray glue on one’s behind mixed with a toilet seat HURTS! After that experience, I added baby wipes to my list of “must haves” along with Q-tips, lipstick, mascara, and hairspray. Lots of hairspray.

Reference: http://pageantcenter.com/history

Sweating it off

2012-01-05T07:00:00.001-05:00

I've spent most of my youth staying fit, eating right, being active. Heck, I never weighed more than 95 lbs because I've always been a petite woman. I started gaining weight in 2007 and I haven't been able to shed the pounds since. I'm currently 105 which I know most of you are probably screaming that I'm insane, but being 4'11, every extra pound really shows. I can't fit my size 0-1 designer jeans anymore and my size 3 butt isn't as firm as it once was. Last year I joined a gym when I got tired of feeling dumpy, but I was short on the motivation. I've spent so many years neglecting my body during the stressful parts of my life that I didn't see the connection to my mind and body. Being a writer, I'm constantly stationary and food is my biggest vice. I'm such a foodie so it was hard to pass up on rich and decadent cuisine. Now I'm paying for it...but not for long.

I woke up one day realizing that I was tired of making excuses to work out. Even with my 3-year gym membership, I wasn't putting in the 100% effort so there was no real results. I swore to myself that in 2012--things were going to change. I want to dedicate this year to taking care of myself and not have this body image disorder that I developed because I let myself go. Turning 40 was a big milestone for me and although I may look fit, I wasn't feeling it. I don't want to wait too long to be proactive because my health will only go downhill from here and I refuse to have to get on medication the rest of my life--especially if I could take some preventive steps now. It's not too late for me to look good and feel good at my age. So on New Year's Eve I signed up for a personal trainer who does a bootcamp style fitness workout. Let me tell you, I haven't been able to walk for a few days but it's not slowing me down. I'm excited about getting back in shape and I know that once my body is toned to where I want it to be, my mind will become just as strong. This is my way of taking control of my life and hopefully the positive actions will translate in my writing career. I see this as a year of the healthy mind and body and I'm hoping by the time Nationals in Anaheim comes around, I will be my best inside and out!

Hope the start of 2012 has been good for everyone! I know it will only get better!

Jina’s Top 5 Titanic Events for 2012 without leaving home

2012-01-04T00:02:00.004-05:00

: © Corey A. Ford | Dreamstime.com

The year 2012 is the Year of Titanic.

No doubt the world will focus attention on all things Titanic. According to The Independent in the UK, you can take a commemorative cruise where you can follow the route of the Titanic. You can also shell out $59,000 to explore the wreckage of the ship up and personal.

Titanic Belfast , the biggest Titanic visitor attraction in the world, will open March 31st (experts predict 400,000 people will descend upon the center during its first year with more than 35,000 tickets already sold). The city of Cobh (known as Queenstown in 1912) will observe the centenary with the Titanic 100 Event series.

Halifax, Nova Scotia has a special connection to Titanic with the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and Titanic sites. Among them are three cemeteries where the Titanic dead are buried, their gravestones all cut from the same granite, all with the same date: April 15, 1912.

In Washington D.C. every year, you can attend the ringing of the bell at the Titanic Memorial to honor the brave gentlemen who died that night so women and children could be saved.

We can’t forget the Titanic exhibitions here is the U.S.: Mystic Titanic Aquarium Exhibit in Mystic, Connecticut will feature interaction touch screens to enhance the visitor’s Titanic experience.
What if you’re unable to travel to Ireland or Nova Scotia or here in the U.S. for these events?

No reason to miss out on all things Titanic. You’d be surprised how you can participate as well as honor Titanic victims this year without leaving home or your computer.

Here are my top 5 Titanic Events for 2012 without leaving home:

1. Not one but two TV mini-series are scheduled for 2012:

“Titanic” from Downton Abbey’s Julian Fellowes will debut on April 12, 2012 and will air in the U.S. on ABC and around the world (57 countries) for four nights. The mini-series creator promises a “fresh approach” as seen through the eyes of different characters (the cast includes 89 characters) including the oft neglected second class passengers.

Titanic: “Blood & Steel” is a 12-part BBC mini-series which focuses on the origin of the Titanic and the ship’s construction in Belfast, Ireland circa 1907. This emotional story is seen through the eyes of the wealthy men who backed and designed the ship as well as the laborers who fit together the nuts and bolts (14,000 workers). As of this writing, the U.S. network is TBA (keep you posted!).

2. James Cameron’s 1997 $2 billion-grossing Titanic film hits the IMAX theaters in 3-D on April 6, 2012 at the cost $18 million.

Mr. Cameron will also host a National Geographic special, Titanic: Final Word with James Cameron, which will share the spotlight Dr. Robert Ballard’s Save the Titanic. An amazing duo of documentaries I can’t wait to see along with Titanic in 3-D.

3. The Titanic First Class Dinner menu included a thirteen course meal from scallops to cream of barley soup to filet mignon to mint sorbet. You could travel to a hotel in Southampton or outside Philadelphia to enjoy a sumptuous Titanic dinner emulating the first class fare hotel.

There’s also a good chance a local restaurant in your city is planning such an event. Or plan your own Titanic dinner. This wonderful article by Rachel Cooke in the Guardian in the UK offers excellent information on Titanic fare. Or check out Last Dinner on the Titanic by Rick Archbold and Dana McCauley for the delicious details.

4. From the heroism of the Titanic musicians led by Wallace Hartley to the hymn Nearer, My God, To Thee that Titanic survivors reported hearing from the lifeboats, music has played a major part in the Titanic story. In 2012 a four-night concert will be beamed globally that will tell the story of Titanic.

Also scheduled is an album from Robin Gibbs (Bee Gees) entitled “The Titanic Requiem” with a special track about a young girl on one of the lifeboats singing about her father who died on the liner.

I’m really looking forward to the concert from The Spirit of Titanic who will perform music from the movie and the period with the Titanic Choristers and National Symphony Orchestra. According to my tweets with Spirit of Titanic, they’re planning to release a DVD of the concert. Can’t wait.

5. Without the wireless sending distress signals from the Titanic, most likely there would have been no survivors. These chilling messages will be rebroadcast in real time on April 14th and 15th by the Nova Scotia Museum on Twitter: “…the same wireless messages operators received in 1912.”

This is a must-do event for all Titanic enthusiasts. I participated in the event last year and I can still feel the strong pull of those messages sent out across the Atlantic on that bitterly cold, starry night.
Seeing the words “It’s CQD, old man” (distress call) pop up on your computer screen is akin to a time machine putting you back there at that precise moment.

Cover Art by Dar Albert

I’m proud to be a part of Titanic with my novel, TITANIC RHAPSODY. My story is a romance about an Irish emigrant named Katie O’Reilly who believed so hard in the American Dream she risked it all to sail on the Titanic.

The ship of dreams.

Katie’s grand adventure begins when she boards the Titanic with the law at her heels and runs straight into the arms of the handsomest man she’s ever seen—

“Now if you’ll be pointing me in the right direction to the third class deck,” Katie said, showing him her ticket, “I’ll be on me way.”

          “And right into the hands of the law."

          She took in a deep breath. So he did know.

          He continued, “You have no choice but to allow me to offer you my protection.”

         “And who are you, sir?”

          He bowed slightly. “Captain Lord Jack Blackthorn, at your service.”

What are you waiting for, girl? Look at the man, will you?

He was tall, muscular and possessed an arrogance that intrigued her. Not to mention a building heat inside her that warmed her down to her toes. He seemed more alive to her than any man she’d ever seen. A man who knew his charm and savored it.

“And why would you be helping the likes of me?” Katie wanted to know with a proud air.

He smiled at that, continuing to stare at her, his eyes dark and searching. “Come with me and find out.”

2012 is going to be a momentous year for all things Titanic. I hope you’ll join me for future posts as we count down to that fateful night.

Dangerous Desires, by Brenda Williamson ~ Chapter 35

2012-01-03T00:01:00.017-05:00

Dangerous Desires

(Click the title to go back to Chapter One)

by Brenda Williamson

(A Free Read ~ A Work in Progress)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Thirty Five

Nathan held tight to the back of Valentina’s head. Something wicked had coiled around him before her teeth pierced his skin. Her icy cold lips pressed around the punctures and she sucked hard. The pain hovered in the background of all else he felt. He didn’t try reasoning with his senses while having his pulse driven wild at the jugular.

When Valentina tried pulling away, he forced to stay. Having no cognizance of the implications of what could happen, he wanted her there. His blood raced, making him hot, making him numb. The vigorous kiss seemed hell bound on draining him of energy—of life. Still, what was death to him if he didn’t live for pleasure?

"No!" Valentina sudden shriek deafened him.

She tore herself out of his grasp at the same time the pain that had hung back, shot to the forefront of his thoughts. He slapped his hand on his neck, cringing from the searing pain. How had he not noticed its intensity? Before he could react, refuse Valentina’s help, she fell back down on him. She grasped his wrist and yanked his hand away from his wound. Then, she lapped at the tender area of his neck with her tongue. Sealing her lips over the punctured flesh, she massaged the piercing sting with cooling licks that healed the hurt. However, his wariness had yet to wane and he pushed her up.

She stared down with those wickedly wonderful dark eyes. Whenever he saw them shaded in that smoldering state, he thought of her seizing hold of his soul. Bewildered by what transpired, he turned his gaze to her mouth. Her crimson lips dripped of blood, even after she swished her tongue over them. Drops fell to his chest.

A handful of emotions roiled through him, outrage, anger, bewilderment. Yet, topping them, a strange, primitive lust building a strengthening urge to drag her back down and feel her bite him in a thousand other places.

Then she blinked and broke the spell possessing his mind.

“I shouldn’t have bitten you.” Valentina’s words jerked his senses fully to the surface.

While it wasn’t the first time a woman bit him, it was the first time one drew so much blood.

Nathan loosened his hold on Valentina. She twisted away, out of his reach and leapt off the bed. He followed to comfort her, not sure why he felt at fault.

Valentina hurried to the washstand. "Please, don’t look at me.” She grabbed a towel from the shelf.

His interest fell on his reflection in the mirror. He moved closer, examining his neck. The two small puncture marks didn’t look as if they should have supplied the amount of blood he had seen on Valentina’s mouth.

The mild cuts deflated his anger. "No harm done. See, just a small scratch.”

He looked at her reflection. The power in her gaze had faded, leaving an unusual glimmer of fear. Yet, when she glanced over her shoulder, the fear had vanished and a hint of surprise appeared in her glistening eyes.

He took the cloth from her hand and dipped it in the basin of water. Mesmerized by her quietness, he dabbed the rag over her mouth, her chin and proceeded to the specks on her chest.

Her bite was not an ordinarily lover’s kiss for a mark of passion. However, he didn’t know how to explain her actions, nor was he ready to question her about them. Something was off about the girl and he hoped to be around if she decided to trust him with her secrets.

"You are a fascinating creature, Valentina and a strange occurrence to humanity." He tossed the rag away and pulled her against him. "Nevertheless, you can trust I’ll keep your confidences and protect you."

“Thank you.” She hugged him. "I should like to leave now.”

Of all things to do, leaving never entered his thoughts. But he nodded in agreement and went to his clothes. He felt her watching him as he pulled on his trousers and donned his shirt.

“Maybe someone will be up this early to get us a bit of food before we go,” he commented.

“I’m not hungry,” Valentina replied, fastening her gown. “But of course, you are welcome to have breakfast.”

The silence between them thickened after that. Nathan made sure they had all that they had come with and ushered Valentina out of the room. They found the dining room open and several customers already occupying several tables. One patron closest to them ate vigorously, enjoying a plate of eggs and ham. The man paused, nodded a hello and resumed eating.

Nathan glanced at the window and noticed the glimmer of daylight. The hour was later than he thought. The closed drapes over the window in their room had kept him in the dark about the time.

They sat at a table more out in the open instead of the corner. During his meal, he studied Valentina. She had ordered a cup of tea and mindlessly stirred, the spoon clinking against the china. She had yet to take a drink.

When the door of the inn opened, it distracted him from Valentina. Outside the fog hung like a low cloud making a dreary morning setting. A man and woman entered. The young lady gained most of his attention. Her long coppery hair hung in large curls, free from any binds or hat. As they got closer, the banter between the couple suggested they were relatives, not spouses.

"Do you know her?" Valentina asked, breaking into his thoughts.

"No," he answered, realizing he had stared far too long.

He looked down at his plate. However, when the lady laughed, he couldn’t resist the nearness of her. He near women like her, uninhibited, loose, accommodating when it suited them.

"I don’t mean to be a bother, but do you know where I might find the powder room?" She stopped at his table.

Her long lashes fluttered flirtatiously.

"No, I don’t.” He rose from his seat. “However, I would be happy to find out for you." He took her elbow. “Please, excuse me for a moment, Valentina."

"That’s so nice of you," the lady said. "My brother is seeing about someone to shoe his horse and I thought I could find the room on my own. Silly me, I didn’t think to ask the woman at the desk."

"I believe we might find it back this way." He took a guess, based on his visits to many inns.

"My name is Sara Parker."

"Nathan Hawks. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” He opened the door under the staircase and looked inside. “I believe this is what you’re searching for."

“It’s a bit dark in there? Do you think you could find the light for me?” She ran her hand down his back.

He smiled at the feel of her touch sliding as far as the seat of his trousers. “Just a moment.” He went inside and felt around for the candleholder. His hand hit the tray of matchsticks first and he lit one.

As he used the light of the flame to guide him to the candlewick, Miss Parker shut the door, closing them inside.

“I’m a bit shy when it comes to being in public,” she explained. “I did not want people wondering what we were up to back here,” she explained.

“And what are we up to, Miss Parker?” he asked.

Her clumsy seduction pegged her as not well experienced in her newfound profession.

“I think you know exactly what I had in mind.” She ran her hand down the front of his jacket, flicking buttons as she went. With one hand, she rubbed his chest, while her other hand caressed the front of his trousers.

For a brief moment, he turned his attention from the pretty, Miss Parker. What would she think of his absence? She had to have seen him and Miss Parker go into the powder room.

..............Read more in Chapter 36 on Jan 17th

Brenda Williamson

$50 Jewelry Shopping Spree Giveaway

Family for Fodder

2012-01-02T02:00:00.005-05:00

New Year's is a harmless annual institution, of no particular use to anybody save as a scapegoat for promiscuous drunks, and friendly calls and humbug resolutions. ~ Mark Twain

Now that the holidays are drawing to a close, I am reflecting on the merriment, the gifts, the lessons and THE FAMILY! Why the family? Because all those quirky relatives provide wonderful fodder for building characters.

Instead of bemoaning crazy Uncle Willard's disgusting table manners, I jot down the particulars and file it away in that rolodex of quirks I keep in the back of my brain.

Rather than chide cheap Aunt Penny for re-gifting every single present she received last year, I make a note of her behavior to use when populating my next book.

Hey, every life experience can help to enrich our writing, so why not make the best of each experience. And speaking of the best, what's your best New Year's memory from this or years past. Mine is smooching with DH (then my boyfriend) at the first New Year's party I hosted on my own after college. It was so much fun until the rum and cokes met up with the champagne in my stomach! Now - dish!

Wishing you a happy, healthy New Year.

Hubby Got Me a Kindle for Christmas!

2011-12-30T00:00:00.000-05:00

Hubby surprised me with a Kindle Touch for Christmas and I love it! The first thing I said - after squeeing! - was "How did you know I wanted a Kindle?" He laughed and told me I kept dropping hints! LOL! I guess I did, but had no idea he'd get me one. I should have known better. He's the best!

Did I mention this is my first eReader? I'm so excited!

*hugs*
Paige

"Stories so hot, they'll make your cheeks blush!"

http://www.paigetylertheauthor.com
http://paigetylertheauthor.blogspot.com

You Be the Judge

2011-12-29T03:15:00.001-05:00

Men, beware. There are many responses to saying or doing the wrong thing, from a slow “okaaayy” to a succinct “fine” to complete silence. You can find yourself up shit’s creek, up shit’s creek without a paddle, or simply in the dog house. Then there’s the royal dog house. It sits apart from the others, and no matter how hard you try, you won’t be moving closer until enough time and groveling has passed, and all groveling will be met with a slow okaaayy, fine, or icy silence.

These listed responses are your judging parameters. I’m going to tell you a story, and you tell me where Stud, my DH of almost 20 years, gets pinned on the list.

First, some background. My holiday season began by hosting 13 for Thanksgiving. Not a huge deal as it’s usually around 22, but this year was special. I managed to shatter the control panel on my oven the Sat. before Thanksgiving, and Sears totally screwed me over. We taped it up, cleaned the house, and had us a Redneck Thanksgiving. The following Fri night, we cleaned the house again, decorated it inside and out, and hosted the entire school orchestra’s holiday party, oven control panel still not fixed. Woke up the next morning to a sick Guinea Pig. Turns out it needed surgery. Yes, surgery. That happened on Tues, leaving us hand feeding him and giving meds. All of this leads up to the following Sat, when we cleaned the house again and hosted a family party for 70. Yes, 7-0, oven control panel still not fixed. I made 10 lasagna’s, 10 mac & chs, and 2 hams. That party was the pinnacle, and then I was supposed to be done. (Oh, and we woke up the next morning and found groundwater seeping up through the carpet in the finished basement. We’re still working on that one.)

Are you tired yet? I sure was. But we got through it all to Stud’s fateful night in question. It was one of those calm, felt like after a huge Nor’Easter before the next storm hits holiday moments when we got to sit on the couch and watch a show or two together. I was also trying to figure out what we’d have for Xmas Eve dinner. I was a little excited because it would be the normal 5 and The Sherry and one adult son, so I could get a bit fancy since I wasn’t cooking for a gazillion. I had also received a major coupon from a Chinese restaurant, so I was toying with simply combining Xmas and Hanukkah and ordering Chinese food and watching a Xmas movie. Hey, I’m no dummy. Just needed to see if it would be cost effective.

“How about cornish game hens?” I asked Stud. “I can get 7 of them for less than Chinese for all.”

“Sounds great, but you’d have to cut them in half.”

“What? No, that would make it chicken on a plate. The while uniqueness of it is having a your own stuffed mini chicken.”

“Yeah, but if you’re only getting 7 of them, what’s everyone else going to eat?”

“Everyone else?” But the second it was out of my mouth, that strange conversation I’d had with my MIL a few nights before suddenly made horrific sense. The look of pure terror on Stud’s face clinched it.

“OH. MY. GOD! Did you invite your family to Xmas Eve dinner?”

Yes. Yes, he had. We had 13 for Xmas Eve dinner. It was an innocent misunderstanding on Stud’s part. Epic, but innocent. I also have to admit that he worked his ass off, too, and he’s a wonderful man I normally thank God for every single day. That said, every party except the orchestra thing was for his family’s side, and we were already going to the MIL’s for brunch on Xmas Day.

So cast your vote. What would your reaction be?

A Lesson in History

2011-12-27T07:56:00.006-05:00

A friend of mine, and fellow author, is working on a book whose heroine is a real historical figure. I was blown away by the rich color of the story…not to mention how believable it read in spite of the book being a paranormal. The heroine had been so alive—perhaps because at one point in history she really had been.

Of course I realize my friend took creative license with the character but it started the ‘ol thought process flowing. What historical figure would I love to find myself changing the landscape of time and scandalizing academia with? What dashing man of mystery or royalty or infamy would I want to whisk me off my feet in a torrid tsunami of love? What dominant, confident man of strength and command would I love to get a little freaky-deaky with? Well, besides the obvious nominees like King Arthur, Merlin, Denzil Washington—he is an historical figure in some circles!—a few candidates came to mind…

Sooo, I bet you thought this was going to be a blog about which historical men would make wonderful, sexy, brooding heroes…and in all honesty, it was meant to be. But then I text my twin sister—the history teacher who had been downing Nyquil all day—about who she thought should top the list and…well…here’s the conversation…

Nina: What about Jaguar Paw?

Me: I hate u.

Nina: Emperor Chen?

Me: *fist bump ala Friends*

Nina: I didn’t watch Friends like that. What’s that mean?

Me: *$&#^@#$ !

Nina: That’s not nice. I’m trying to help u! Bruce Lee?

Me: Aha. You might actually have something there oh 8-eyed one.

Nina: What about the Dali Lama?

Me: Go take some more Nyquil. It’s safe, I promise…

Nina: Black Beard.

Me: Bad teeth.

Nina. Henry the VII?

Me: How did u know I found him sexy???

Nina: Something’s wrong with u…

Me: It’s the company I was born with.

Nina: Ivan the Terrible? I think he gotta bad rep because of that whole impalement thing…what about the Count of Monte Cristo?

Me: Yeah and the whole murder anyone who disagreed with him thing…and the Count of Monte Cristo wasn’t real!!

Nina: Yeah…and then there’s him killing his son…BUT all that didn’t start until his wife died. I mean ur a writer put a spin on it!

Me: I can’t put a spin on insanity.

Nina: John Lennon? Attila the Hun?

Me: John Lennon was a freak and Attila isn’t a sexy name.

Nina: He was not! How u gonna speak about the man like dat? And what about ‘ol Alex (Alexander the Great). He was a double dipper! And Solomon (King Solomon) ain’t no sexy name either! Reminds me of Geico!

Me: I think Solomon is very distinguished *sniff* Song of Solomon, yo? And John was freaky, admit it. Who knew what him and Yoko did while high and naked??

Nina: U hit a nerve, yo! You are a blasphemer! What about Mahatma Ghandi?

Me: I hate u. Now who’s the blasphemer! Besides he didn’t believe in personal wealth. Nora Roberts couldn’t sell him!

Nina: Why u trying to be like Nora Roberts?

Me: I’m just saying ain’t nobody going to believe in the romantic side of a man who don’t have two dinero to rub together. I mean where would we meet for dinner? His mat?

Nina: No dinner but “hubba hubba” *eyebrows going up and down*

Me: On a thin mat? I’d be too worried about my booty being bitten by something…

Nina: If he’s doing it rite u won’t even be worried about that. *eyebrows again*

Me: Good nite, Nina. More Nyquil and remember…a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down. Medicine go down…Medicine go down in the most delightful way…*hum*

Nina: Oh well…goodnite…

Never did determine who my heroes were…

Oh, well. Happy New Year!!

What if Words Disappeared?

2011-12-26T10:43:00.000-05:00

As a writer, a natural-born lover of all things language, I cannot imagine a greater disaster than the disappearance of words. Words fascinate me, stories enthrall. But what would happen if words vanished? I have listened to both a video (on TED.com) and audio podcast (on Radio Labs at NPR) of Jill Bolte Taylor who described just this situation. Jill, a neurologist, experienced a stroke that left her without her left hemisphere functions for quite some time. In effect, all of the chatter in her mind went silent and she lived in sensual immediacy, with only a sense of joy and peace, which she valued highly. No words whatsoever, much like a return to infancy.

Other neurologists have argued that it is language that makes a person all he or she is, the essential "I"ness or "you"ness of a person. Yet when people have sought out peace, seeking that mindful, quiet space in their head where they can appreciate being alive, they also seek to stop the internal chatter.

I think the human condition is about the struggle of language since it represents the push and pull of love and joy and despair and connection and isolation and satisfaction and frustration. I do believe words define who we are, which is why I am in their constant pursuit. Yet I see the benefit of stilling those words. Another contradiction. I suppose the best books I have read inspire me to seek higher states of being, that transcendence that comes with pure silence. Ironic huh?

So read a book, write a book, listen to a story, enjoy the chatter, and then push those words aside and seek the peace of quiet, mindfulness. We all deserve the best of both worlds.

Still looking for a great last-minute gift?

2011-12-24T07:39:00.001-05:00

My publisher has about a gazillion books on sale for $1.99 for ereaders. Ever author's first in a series books. That, of course, includes my Strange Neighbors. Here's the skinny.

To celebrate the holidays, Sourcebooks has put announces its most extensive eBook promotion to date! From December 21, 2011-January 8, 2012, purchase the first book from a Sourcebooks author for only $1.99—books that are the first in a series, or the first book that Sourcebooks published by that author (and a few extra for good measure). More than 65 exceptional books ranging from young adult to adult fiction, romance, and non-fiction. For complete details, please visit our landing page devoted to this promotion: http://www.sourcebooks.com/it-all-started-when.html

Merry Christmas Eve, and for my non-Christian friends, Happy Holidays!

Every Girl Needs a BFF

2011-12-23T01:00:00.003-05:00

By: Casey Crow

In honor of the wonderful ladies of Naughty Author Chicks, I'm talking today about best girlfriends. One of the things I like best in my debut release CAN'T FAKE THIS is the relationship between Anna and her best friend. Like me, Anna goes to her best gal pal for advice and more often than not, whenever she needs to vent. Best friends never judge, no matter what stupid thing you do. Thank goodness, too, because mine knows I've done a lot of stupid things. They accept you for you and tell you the true, even if you don't want to hear it.

To illustrate my point, here's a snippet from CAN'T FAKE THIS:

Marisol and I sat on her back porch, drinking hot chocolate on another relatively warm afternoon for December. God, I loved the South, where sixty degrees isn’t unusual for the height of winter. Even so, a flame blazed in the fire pit located in the center of her coffee table.

“Have you made a decision?” Marisol asked. She pushed around the remnants of the homemade smores our kids created earlier as she searched for more marshmallows to add to her cup. “It’s been over three weeks, and you were wrong. You said I’d pine for two weeks, but I’m still moping around barely able to function.”

“Has he contacted you?”

“At first, he would text every couple of days. Nothing big. He asked how I was. Stuff like that. I kept it light and distant, then today he sent me a message asking how was he ever going to get over me.”

“Did you reply?”

“No. I wanted to tell him, I’ll let you know when I figure out how I’m going to get over you, but then I got another message. Said he missed me all the time and it wasn’t just about sex. That he simply loved being with me.”

Marisol’s mouth dropped. “He’s seriously in love with you.”

I nodded.

“How do you feel?”

I took a big gulp of hot cocoa. “I’m attracted to him, but there’s more. I love him. He makes me laugh and feel good about myself. Chase cherishes and protects without dominating. He lets me be me and loves me for that.”

“Do you still think it’s a rebound thing?”

“No. I’ve done some serious soul searching, and all I could come up with is yeah, Frog number one should have been the jumping off board, but why dive again when I’m already over my head in love?”

Marisol sat her cup down and leaned forward to garner my full attention. “Take a chance. Don’t be afraid and risk happiness for the sake of obeying the post-divorce books.”

I rubbed my forehead, letting her words sink in.

“Call him.”

I glanced at her.

“Better yet, go see him.”

Do you have a story about you and your best friend? An embarrassing moment? Mine involves a fender bender in high school. I wasn't driving, but distracting my friend singing Elvira. I pretty much made her run into this guy's truck, and he had such crush on her. Well, maybe not so much after she scratched his pride and joy. Are there any touching stories you'd like to share? I'd love to hear about them!

Blurb: CAN’T FAKE THIS is a f/m erotic about a divorcee ready to reenter the dating world. Anna Ryan is determined to be the best “product on the market,” which requires a lot more experience so she propositions sexy police officer Chase Harris to teach her how to make hot, passionate love as opposed to just having sex. He takes it a step further, instructing each lesson based on The Twelve Days of Christmas.

See the book trailer and a super hot excerpt! Visit Casey at http://www.caseycrow.com/. On Facebook at Casey Crow and Twitter at caseyecrow.
Buy Kindle version at Amazon Buy all versions at Loose, Id.

Winter Lights

2011-12-22T01:09:00.001-05:00

When I lived in LA—and during a writing funk—one of my favorite things to do was drive through the city. I owned a Jeep at the time so I'd take off the top and go on a grand adventure. The long winding road would lead me through the quiet streets into Laurel Canyon and drop off in Hollywood. Sometimes I'd take Mulholland Drive to Santa Monica. Sometimes I'd go all the way to the PCH, Venice, or Manhattan Beach. The drive was therapeutic and when I came home, I'd always feel refreshed and inspired.

What was special about the drive was cutting through the narrow streets that kept ascending to what felt like the stars, maybe even to the heavens. You could barely squeeze two cars through the road at a given time but the magic was in the lights. Especially during the holiday months when these million dollar homes would be decorated from trees to the gate to the front door. It was truly something special. Like something out of the movies, so surreal and tranquil.

What I learned from these drives was that it was a mental break from all the stresses of the world. It allowed me to let go of all the pressures and expectations so my head could clear and my mind could refocus on what was the most important...me. As writers, we need to step away for a moment and enjoy the ride. To feel the wind whipping at our faces, to see the lights show us the way, to allow the creativity and energy to flow through so that our mind could breathe. It's good to empty the clutter so new ideas and excitement can form. We all put so much energy into everything and not enough into ourselves. Maybe it's time to change all that.

So this holiday season, I'm wishing all my friends and fellow writers a very relaxing and inspiring one...I hope that in 2012 you find that balance in which you can put equal energy into your art and your family!

photo credit: photoinsajd via weheartit

A Naughty Christmas Carol for Your Holiday Stocking

2011-12-21T00:02:00.002-05:00

I love Bill Maher. Never miss his HBO show on Friday nights.

Imagine the fun I had this holiday season when Bill used Scrooge and Dickens’ “Christmas Carol” as part of his New Rules!!

Funnier yet was when Bill talked about Scrooge’s clerk “going down” in his segment.

Just like in my “A Naughty Christmas Carol” novella when Jinger–the secretary to my Scrooge-like Wall Street trader, Nick Radnor–gives him what he wants in the opening scene —

EXCERPT:

Was that the door opening? The sound of jingle bells in his office?

And the smell of perfume. Spicy with an underlying hint of a female aroused.

“Mr. Radnor…”

The perfume was overpowering now.

Nick didn’t take his eyes off his computer screen. “Come back later, Jinger, I’m busy.”

Jinger Hunt, office girl extraordinaire. Summa cum laudeColumbia. Business and finance. Then a year of law school until her money ran out. She tried working as an escort, but the johns complained she was too smart. She intimidated them with her brains and they lost their erection. Came to work for him as his secretary.

Nick paid her a good salary, but Jinger kept bucking for a promotion to the board room. Women didn’t belong there, he insisted, no matter how smart they were.

So Jinger quit, then came back. Said she’d play the game his way. She needed a job. They compromised. She called herself his executive personal assistant, a fancy name she came up with, but in his mind she was still his secretary. She kept his calendar, scheduled his meetings and prepared his financial documents.

She also looked great doing it.

“Have you forgotten our appointment?” Jinger purred.

Nick looked up. “Holy shit.”

He had been so engrossed in his stock portfolio that he’d forgotten their holiday fuck. A tradition he initiated her first year working for him. How long ago was that? Five, six years? He’d lost track.

Jinger didn’t.

Standing in the doorway, the six-foot tall blonde wore red high heels, a black garter belt and black stockings with a red-and-white striped candy cane strapped to her thigh. She wore nothing else but a leather collar around her neck studded with rhinestones and jingle bells.

Seeing her standing there with her bare pussy dusted with gold holiday glitter turned him on. Big-time. His boxers felt tighter than they had a minute ago. Fuck the Asian markets. They could wait.

Nick couldn’t take his eyes off her, her Santa cap tilted to one side, the furry white ball on the end swaying back and forth as she hung a sprig of mistletoe on a light fixture.

To put him in the mood? He licked his lips. Man, just looking at her sweetened his day.

He took in the curve of her big breasts and tight brown nipples. For a women her size, she had amazing breasts. He liked to bury his face in her cleavage, then fuck her while standing her against the wall. In heels, she was still an inch shorter than he was.

No woman ever towered over him. In business or in bed.

Never taking her eyes off his, Jinger pulled the long candy cane from her black garter and began licking it, nice and slow.

Did it just get hotter in here?

Nick wasted no time shedding his pin-striped Armani suit, white shirt and silk tie. Then his shoes and socks. Jinger never stopped licking the candy cane, twirling her tongue around the curved head, making sucking noises that pleased him. He couldn’t wait for her minty lips to go around his dick.

Her eyes widened when his cock popped out of his boxers like a jack-in-the-box.

Ready for action.

“Have you been naughty or nice, Jinger?” Nick said, running his hand up and down his long shaft.

“Naughty, Mr. Radnor,” she cooed, “very naughty.”

She wiggled her shoulders to prove her point, then yanked off the Santa cap and tossed it to him.

Nick caught it and plopped it on his head. “Come to Santa, baby.”

Jinger smiled wide, then threw the candy cane into the trashcan. She sat down on his lap and played with the curly black hairs on his chest, her long shiny nails sending prickles of heat down to his groin.

Without missing a beat, Nick opened his mouth to claim hers in a kiss, his tongue diving between her red lips. Instinctively, he pulled her closer to him, crushing her nude breasts against his chest, his tongue working overtime exploring her mouth.

The taste of sugary peppermint cooled his tongue, but not his desire. His hard cock moved against her belly, trying to find its way into her.

“Not yet, Santa,” Jinger said, breaking the kiss. Her voice was husky, her half-opened eyes dreamy.

“Don’t tease me, Jinger,” Nick said in a brusque tone. She stiffened. He hadn’t meant for his words to sound harsh, but he was tense. Way tense. Christmas always did this to him. He just wanted the damned holiday over with.

“I know how to relax you,” she whispered, grabbing his dick, her long fingers curling around his shaft, then sliding her hand up and down. Higher each time until her fingertips brushed the swollen, sensitive head. She squeezed it just enough to make him suck in his breath. He grabbed her hair and pulled on it, clenching his teeth.

Damn, he couldn’t hold back much longer.

Jinger sensed his hunger for her hot pussy. She slipped a red holiday condom on his dick then did what any good secretary would do.

She sat on his cock.

—————— from “A Naughty Christmas Carol”

Great show, Bill, as always!! Can’t wait till you return on January 13th.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!

Cover photo: © Carlo Dapino | Dreamstime.com

Dangerous Desires, by Brenda Williamson ~ Chapter 34

2011-12-20T00:01:00.003-05:00

Dangerous Desires

(Click the title to go back to Chapter One)

by Brenda Williamson

(A Free Read ~ A Work in Progress)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Thirty Four

Valentina ran her hand over her mouth, seeking evidence, no, not evidence, but the lack of it. Somewhere in the midst of desire, she had lost clarity. Reality had merged with dreams. She had wanted Nathan with such a rapacious hunger, that the darker needs also sought to be fulfilled.

She lowered her hand and rubbed her fingertips together. Without having to look, she knew from the dryness of her skin she hadn’t drank of Nathan’s blood.

"Are you all right?" Nathan’s raspy voice was barely audible from his heavy breathing.

She shook her head, and then replied, “Yes,” knowing the dim lighting in the room wouldn’t allow him to see she was upset.

The raw, wildness of their animalistic sex was both desirous and fitting for their circumstances. Yet, while sex was as it should be, the confusion Valentina had with two events mingling in her thoughts made for an unpleasant aftermath. She had dreams about drinking blood from the boar. The rush of energetic euphoria she experienced from that sustenance paralleled the sensations of the orgasm Nathan gave her.

"I had my way with you in a most unconventional manner." Nathan got off the bed and walked to her. “That’s not how I meant for it to be our first time together.”

“I’m fine,” she said, closing her eyes to touch of his hand cradling her face. “I liked it.”

“Somehow, I knew you would.” He kissed her forehead.

Afraid of how easily her visions of sucking and swallowing the blood of the boar changed to her drinking from Nathan’s veins for her thirsty enjoyment, she held her bottom lip between her teeth, nervously.

How much longer could she keep the secrets of her existence from Nathan? He’d have to suspect sometime that his actions were not always his decision.

Nathan moved in closer, sliding an arm around her. The hardness of his cock pressed against her, proclaimed his lingering desire. She opened her eyes, witnessing the same in his glazed stare.

“This time will be gentler,” he said, not apologetically, but more informatively.

Folding her arms up behind him, she welcomed the comfort of his embrace. Immersed in conflict, she clung to him. The heat of her own lust spiraled up from the pit of her belly. Passion possessed her.

When Nathan bowed slightly, she placed her hand behind his head, encouraging him to kiss her without restraint.

He drew her down on the bed. And just as their tongues entwined, so did their limbs. He bathed her senses with his lust, rolling her around on the mattress, kissing her everywhere profusely.

She ravaged his thoughts, stripping him of control, lodging her desires into his mind as if they were his own. So that with the same greedy savagery she had struggled to contain, Nathan grasped her head by a handful of hair and positioned her mouth against his neck. The rapid pulsation of his skin against her lips escalated excitement in her. She took in a sharp breath and opened her mouth wide, extending her fang teeth for the extrusion of warm blood.

One taste, that’s all she’d take, just one taste, she cautioned, already anticipating the euphoria before her the sampling.

..............Read more in Chapter 35 on Jan 3rd

Brenda

http://www.brendawilliamson.com/

NEW RELEASE!

Truth or Dare
by Brenda Williamson
ISBN: 978-1-61124-222-5
Available from Amber Quill Press

Caught up in a game of Truth or Dare, Laura finds herself in a nightclub, dressed in next to nothing, and nervously awaiting her turn to perform in a pole dancing contest. To make matters worse, her old boyfriend, handsome Mark Cantrell, appears at the club with his new bride. Upset by long-buried emotions, Laura wants to run for home, yet jealously roots her in place.

When a twist is thrown into the competition and Laura has to have a man perform with her, Mark actually volunteers to be her partner. From that point, Laura struggles with the right and wrong of seducing a married man, especially when Mark abandons his wife into his brother’s care and offers to drive her home.

Desperate to feel loved once more, will Laura lose the battle with her conscience?

Getting in the Mood

2011-12-19T02:00:00.006-05:00

One of the very first pieces of fiction I published (under another name) was a short story about a woman who needs a date for her family's New Year gathering. All these years later, Cinderella Tannenbaum is still one of my favorites.

As many Christmas romances as there are out there, finding romances involving Hanukkah are pretty hard to find. Do you have a favorite holiday romance book? If so, please do tell! If you're looking for a short, sweet story, check out Cinderella Tannenbaum.

Here's a snipet:

Mindy Tannenbaum stared at the caller ID display and swallowed hard. The moment of truth had arrived. The phone’s shrill ring might well have been her mother’s nagging voice, imploring her to answer.
Stop being a baby and get it over with. She picked up and tried to smile brightly. “Hello, Mother. How are you?”

“How am I? How should I be when I have only one daughter and she never calls home?” Florence Tannenbaum whined.

Mindy shut her eyes. “Sorry, Mother. Work’s been keeping me so busy.”

“Well, if you don’t have time for me, I’ll let you go. I hope you’ll make time to visit my grave, at least. Maybe by then, hmm?”

“Of course I have time. How are you? How’s Dad?”

“We’re old, how do you think we are? Your father’s back is giving him trouble again. My arthritis is a constant companion in my life. But you know me, I don’t like to complain.”

Mindy rolled her eyes.

“I’m making up my New Year’s Day dinner menu. Will you bring someone this year? Should I set another place?” Her mother sighed, as if to say, “You still have no prospects, do you?”

The worst part was, she was right. No handsome hunks had recently beaten down Mindy’s door. Not even any that weren’t handsome!“As a matter of fact, Mother, I would like to bring someone–a date.” What the hell was she doing? She hadn’t had a date in months. Now what? Maybe he could cancel at the last minute. No, she’d used that excuse two years ago.

Florence’s voice brightened. “Oh, a date? How come you didn’t mention this at Thanksgiving?”

Think fast. “Um, we just started seeing each other last weekend.”

“How wonderful. Tell me all about him.”

“It’s a surprise. You’ll have to wait until New Year’s.”

“But Mindy, that’s weeks away. I could get hit by a bus between now and then.”

“Then the last thing you have to fret about is who I’m dating. Worry about not stepping out in front of moving vehicles.”

Naughty Christmas Gifts!

2011-12-16T00:00:00.000-05:00

If you're looking for some naughty Christmas gifts - and who isn't?! - I've got some fun suggestions for you!

First is SPANK ME, BABY.

It's a sweet, edible powder you can smooth over your guy's skin - or have him smooth over yours! - before a spanking. You can also use it to soothe that freshly spanked bottom afterward.

Check it out at Babeland.
http://store.babeland.com/bachelorette-party-novelty/spank-me-baby

If edible powder isn't you're thing, but you still want something to cover your guy in just so you can lick it off - or he can lick it off you! - there's always CHOCOLATE BODY PAINT.

Check it out at Chocolate Fantasies.
http://chocolatefantasies.com/bodypaintsauce_.htm

Looking for something to make oral sex even more stimulating? Then pick up NAUGHTY KISS LIP GLOSS in Tingling Mint. Not only will it make your lips tingle, but it'll make your guy tingle, too. In a good way!

Check it out at Victoria's Secret.
http://www.victoriassecret.com/ss/Satellite?ProductID=1265646080309&c=Page&cid=1319078558565&pagename=vsdWrapper

Want your guy to simply unwrap you instead? Then dress up as SANTA BABY when you give him his present!

Check out all the sexy Christmas lingerie at 3 Wishes.
http://www.3wishes.com/Christmas.asp#JV985

And if you're looking for something for yourself - though you can certainly give it as a gift, too! - take a peek at my two Christmas erotic romances, SANTA'S WAYWARD ELF and SEXY SECRET SANTA.

I've got yummy excerpts on my website!
http://www.paigetylertheauthor.com

Merry Christmas!

*hugs*
Paige

"Stories so hot, they'll make your cheeks blush!"

http://www.paigetylertheauthor.com
http://paigetylertheauthor.blogspot.com

No Stuffing, Please

2011-12-15T03:15:00.001-05:00

Ladies, do you remember that old chant we used to do back when we were Preteens?

Elbows pointed and thrusting backward: “We must, we must, we must increase our bust!”

Well, I think I did that one or a thousand times too many. Yes, it was that time again: I went bra shopping. Despite those childhood wishes and what anyone B cup and under thinks, this is not a good experience for those of us who are over endowed. Especially when there seems to have been a slight revolution since the last time I forced myself to do the deed.

So whose bright idea was it to pad minimizers for a DD size? Seriously? M-I-N-I-M-I-Z-E-R. How is adding padding to the cups minimizing the size? Great nipple cover, but if I lost my mind and wanted to be a DDD, I’d...well, see a psychiatrist. Bend me, shape me, and for the love of god, lift me, but padding I don’t need.

Remember the days of bullet bras with a seam across the middle of the cups? Cones that could take out small children and keep your feet dry in the rain. Think Madonna, but with the bra on the inside. Yeah, I’m glad those days are over, but I still don’t want to look like a linebacker with this new version.

I do wonder what’s coming next. Valve and pump? Ooh, like the sneakers of old! Sitting around the house, let the air out. Going out on a hot date? Pump me up!!

Just don’t add padding.

Dillon's Claim

2011-12-14T09:54:00.000-05:00

The follow up to Deacon's Touch comes out on Friday. Dillon's Claim features the eldest brother of the Dumen clan, and he's quite the alpha. I'm giving away a digital copy to a commenter here on Friday, so let me know who your favorite alpha hero of all time is to enter.

Blurb: Charissa Myers attends a bachelorette weekend at a Texas guest ranch, knowing she’ll have to confront Dillon Dumen. The sexy cowboy is everything she’s ever wanted in a man but, gun-shy after a previous BDSM encounter gone bad, she denied her need to submit to the irresistible Dom. She expects his anger, but what she doesn’t expect is Dillon’s determination to finish what they started all those months ago.

Dillon doesn’t understand what spooked Charissa in the first place, but now that she’s on his turf, he wants a hell of a lot more from her than answers. He’s got two days to weaken her resistance and stake his claim once and for all. And this time, he’s not letting her go without a fight.

Excerpt:
Shock rippled through her at the sensual feel of his mouth on hers. Her hands immediately went to his shoulders, palms pressing against the contours of solid muscle. He didn’t let go, the gentle pressure of his hand at her nape reinforcing his control and heightening all her senses. The kiss was hard, possessive, but his lips were soft and warm on hers. A startled moan escaped, her body tingling with a rush of pleasure.
She wanted this. Had craved it for so long. God help her, her fingers curled around his shoulders instead of pushing him away. Her lips softened and parted beneath his, the tender stroke of his tongue making her sex clench in anguish. He kissed her like he’d been dying to taste her, licking and caressing all the sensitive places inside her mouth, that strong hand cradling the back of her neck.
All too soon, he pulled back, leaving her hot, confused. Wanting more.
Dillon raised a hand and trailed a questioning fingertip over her cheekbone, holding her spellbound. “Something spooked you the last time I did that,” he said in a low voice, his eyes far too knowing. “What was it? This?”
Before she could pull away, he threaded his other hand into her hair and held her head still. Letting her feel a taste of his authority, making her even wetter at the thought of exactly how it would translate into the bedroom. The dominant side of him frightened her as much as it aroused her. She swallowed, hating the betraying stillness in her body as she softened, wordlessly affirming her desire to give up control. His steely eyes pinned her mercilessly, gauging her reaction, watching for any sign of vulnerability. This was the predator she’d sensed lurking inside him, and this time there was no escape. She closed her eyes to block out his scrutiny.
“Look at me,” he commanded softly.
Fighting with herself, she drew a deep breath and forced herself to meet his gaze. She swallowed again as his long fingers rubbed against her scalp, his grip commanding, yet so tender it tied her in knots. For the life of her, she couldn’t make herself pull away.
“What were you so scared of, Charissa? Maybe this?” He bent and brushed his mouth over hers. Gently this time, a beguiling caress of lips and tongue that made her catch her breath, press closer to him. Tempting her in ways a more forceful touch never could have. The man was lethal with his mouth. She could just imagine how well he’d use the rest of his body.

*end excerpt*

Yep, Charissa is one lucky lady! That man is HOT.

Happy reading,

Callie :)

Misfits: Fairy Tales' Misunderstood

2011-12-13T05:00:00.002-05:00

So lately I’ve been kind of preoccupied with fairy tales. It’s almost as if I’m writing a series on them with some really cool, sexy name like Fairy Tales Unleashed. Or something like that. As I was saying, I’ve been reading a lot of fairy tales lately. You have your old favorites. Sleeping Beauty. Snow White. Beauty and the Beast. And then there are your lesser known tales. Brother and Sister. The Six Swans. The Bushy Bride. Seriously, I did not make that up. Reading these stories have brought back so many memories of my mother, sister and I sitting on the couch while she read The Boy Who Cried Wolf and Billy Goat Gruff to us. *sigh* Those were great times. Great stories. And some serious WTF moments. Listen, I know the great thing about fairy tales is the happily-ever-after but, man, some characters were stuck with really raw deals! I mean they were shafted! I know what you’re thinking. That’s crazy talk! Or get a grip! But follow me here for a moment…

The Six Swans. In this story the most obvious people wronged are the six brothers that were turned into swans by their evil stepmother. But the sister, who not only has to sew—sew?? For real??—six shirts for them is also struck mute and is unable to laugh for six years—the number of years she has to complete these shirts before the enchantment is permanent. Raw deal #1. Then a king sees her, is mesmerized by her beauty and marries her. All good, right? But no, another wicked stepmother steals all three babies she births and blames their disappearance on the sister/queen. Does king-y stand by his woman? Nooo. Instead she’s sentenced to burn at the stake. Shaft #2. Just as the match is ready to be set to kindle, the six swan brothers flock to her, she throws the shirts that she’s finally finished in the air and her brothers return to human. Yay! Except, here’s Shaft #3. She didn’t have time to finish the sleeve of the youngest brother’s shirt so he has to live life with one wing. *&^%$#!!!

Rumpelstiltskin. The princess was treated so wrong, right? Wrong! There was one character in this story crying out here. And that was Rumpelstiltskin! Rumpy—as we’re calling him because, hey, Rumpel-etc.-etc. is simply too much to type!—is used for his talents, lied to, cheated on and he’s the bad guy. Now the miller’s daughter is conscripted into doing the impossible—turning straw into gold—because of liar-dreams-of-grandeur father. She faced execution from the greedy king but Rumpy shows up and does the task for a small price. I mean really, what’s a ring and necklace compared to her life? Well when Rumpy requests her firstborn in exchange for the last ginormous pile of straw, the miller’s daughter agrees. I mean she never imagined the greedy-selfish-fill-my-coffers-with-gold-or-I’ll-decapitate-you king would offer his hand in marriage and she would actually have a baby. So of course that’s enough reason to renege! What did Rumpy do but hold up his end of the bargain? He didn’t throw his daughter to the wolves. The miller did that. He didn’t threaten an innocent woman with beheading over the idea of gold. No, the kind did that. And he didn’t go back on his word, not delivering on his end of the bargain. The queen did that. So what does Rumpy get for being a man of his word? One foot in hell. Literally. Now I know what you’re thinking. But he wanted her baby. Look, I have kids and let’s face it. After one week with the kid, he would’ve given it back!

Sleeping Beauty. Just purge the Disney version of this tale out of your mind. Sleeping Beauty had her happily-ever-after but she went through straight Not-Heaven before she got it! First because Queen Mom neglected to invite one pissed-off fairy, Sleeping Beauty ended up with a curse over her head that they didn’t tell her about! Forget the fact that due to mom’s mistake—drink more ginkgo, lady!—a lot of people lost their livelihood with the banishment of the spindle! If they had only told Sleeping Beauty about the curse she wouldn’t have went anywhere near that spinning wheel, not to mention the creepy old lady locked up in a room she knew nothing about! That’s sooo not a red flag. So she pricks her finger and falls into a coma-like sleep for one hundred years. One hundred years! Do you know how many balls, parties and fashions she missed in a century? So she awakens to a kiss from a prince with no gum in sight. Que music. They all lived happily-ever…*screech* Nope, that’s so not the end of this story. The prince secretly weds Sleeping Beauty and keeps her his little secret from his stepmother. In the meantime he continues to make booty calls and she has two children. Where do these princesses in these tales find these men? Well when his father kicks the bucket, he ascends to the throne—and surprise!—springs his ready-made family on the stepmother, who happens to be wicked (No! Didn’t see that coming!) and of ogress lineage. Talk about the mother-in-law from hell! Her husband leaves on some kingly duty and abandons his wife and children to the tender care of his stepmother. Tender as in tender meat, because that’s what she tries to turn them into. Succulent tender meat on her dinner table. Long story short, Sleeping Beauty has to face the voracious appetite of her Shrek-like mother-in-law, save her kids from becoming rack of lamb and elude a pit of vipers. King shows up just in time and stepmother ends up in her own viper pit. All this because Sleeping Beauty’s mother forgot a name…this whole thing could have been avoided if her mother had just made an invite list to that doggone christening!

Did I make a believer out of you yet? Do you see what I mean about raw deals? C'mon! Jump on my bandwagon!

Up to Date on Definitions?

2011-12-12T06:00:00.001-05:00

Increasingly I've been integrating a new term into my daily lingo. Sex-positive. As a writer of erotic romance involving alternative sexualities, I've found this to be a key concept. It struck me that more folks need to have this as part of their daily verbiage, so I thought I'd include a short primer.

The term is often used in context of the sex-positive movement which embraces an attitude toward human sexuality that regards all consensual sexual activities as basically healthy and pleasurable. It supports sexual pleasure and experimentation. It advocates sex education and safer sex and makes no moral distinctions between types of sexual activities, leaving them to personal preferences.

I like the definition of sex-positivity given by sexologist Carol Queen:

"Sex-positive, a term that's coming into cultural awareness, isn't a dippy love-child celebration of orgone - it's a simple yet radical affirmation that we each grow our own passions on a different medium, that instead of having two or three or even half a dozen sexual orientations, we should be thinking in terms of millions. "Sex-positive" respects each of our unique sexual profiles, even as we acknowledge that some of us have been damaged by a culture that tries to eradicate sexual difference and possibility."

So feel free to throw "sex-positive" into your next conversation. Spread the knowledge. Spread tolerance and appreciation for diversity. And think of the word lovingly next time you read a hot erotic romance with less traditional sexual partnerships.

No releases yet...

2011-12-10T11:48:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone,

With all the news of new releases here I feel like I'm falling behind. I'm working diligently every day, and yet my books are looooong so they take a loooong time to write.

I have a little novella that was supposed to be all edited and ready to go by now, but it's not. I hope to get the long book finished and then take another look at the novella. Meanwhile, we have holidays and vacation to fit this around. We're going to Panama in Jan. for a week. That reminds me...I need to pick up my Rosetta Stone software and get back to my Spanish lessons.

Well, I hope the wait is worth it. I never publish anything I'm not proud of--and I won't make this a first. So, stay tuned. Eventually I'll have good news too.

Can't Fake This Released!

2011-12-09T00:00:00.000-05:00

By: Casey Crow

This week saw the release of my debut, CAN’T FAKE THIS. The blog party was a huge success so to celebrate I'm offering a sneak peek inside this fun story with a fresh twist on the Twelve Days of Christmas.

CAN'T FAKE THIS is about a divorcee ready to reenter the dating world. Anna Ryan is determined to be the best “product on the market,” which requires a lot more experience so she propositions sexy police officer Chase Harris to teach her how to make hot, passionate love as opposed to just having sex. He takes it a step further, instructing each lesson based on The Twelve Days of Christmas.

Here's the excerpt:

My zipper slid down with a hiss, exposing my bare flesh to the cool air of the room. “Do you know what today is?” I was breathless as the material spilled below my hips.

Chase pushed my hair aside, his tongue sweeping every vertebra until he knelt on his knees kissing the small indention of my lower back. “Sunday.”

“December fourteenth.” I needed to be the one on my knees. My legs had turned all Jell-Oy. Yeah, I wasn’t an expert in the chemistry department, but even I could sense the spark between us, the hot, electric pull. As his teeth pulled at the peach bow of my G-string, I could already imagine his cock sliding into me. He yanked the dress down and turned me around. My crotch was now at his eye level. I rubbed his shaved head, debating whether I should pull his face to my panties or hike a leg over his shoulder. Or both. I settled for the latter before my weak knees collapsed.

“It’s twelve days till Christmas,” I said. The figure eights he licked along my inner thigh made it rather difficult to carry on a coherent conversation.

“Consider tonight an early present.” He swooped in for a taste, or so I thought, as hot air breezed my pussy.

Before I knew it, Chase slipped my leg off his shoulder and stood to scoop me into his arms. He lowered me onto the cold leather of the sofa, but the chill disintegrated the moment his warm body stretched over me. His large, dark pupils filled with lust — and dare I say, need? — as his dick throbbed between my legs. I squeezed my thighs, putting pressure on his cock. He let out a low groan while my body strained for more than a tease. I lifted my hips to rub up and down on his shaft.

We ground our bodies together, my gaze trapped by his own for a deliciously suspended moment. It never occurred to me this kind of intimacy was odd. I mean, most folks would be kissing and getting it on by now, but after all the exciting tension that had built all night, we suddenly slowed down…to savor. Damn, it was sexy.

Zero doubt played in my mind. I wanted this guy to help execute my plan. “I’m thinking I deserve one every day for the next twelve days,” I said as he moved in for a kiss.

The grinding of his hips against mine stopped. Chase pushed up on his elbows and stared at me, lifting a curious brow.

“Hear me out.” My fingers examined his rib cage, stopping to pay homage to his thick, oblique muscles. “I need someone like you to…” My throat closed. When had my palms become this sweaty? I took my hands off his body so he wouldn’t notice, and prayed the cool air would dry them.

“Like me?”

“Experienced…not looking for attachments.” I threw in the last bit to remind us both Chase fulfilled the role of Frog number one.

He grinned. “What do you need?”

“I want you to spend the next twelve days teaching…showing me how to make love.”

He winced, and sucked a hiss through his teeth. “You write sex for a living.”

“Writing about it and really living it are two different things.” I squirmed out of his hold. He pulled away as I sat Indian style across from him. “Look, here’s the deal. It’s been eight long years since I’ve been single, and now that I’m back on the market, I intend to be the best product out there.”

His lips twitched as his gaze roamed my body. “You’re pretty damn good as you are.”
I blushed and grabbed a red throw pillow to cover my nakedness. “Thanks, but I need, shall we say, tutoring in the fine art of love making.”

“Let me get this straight.” He barely contained the laughter in his voice. “You’re asking me to instruct you on how to have sex?”

“No dummy. I know how to have sex. Anybody can pump and hump.” The image of my ex flashed in my mind. “I want passion, chemistry and hot, sweaty multiple orgasms.” I tossed the pillow on the floor and rose, knee walking across the sofa toward him. My fingers teased the hem of his T-shirt. They finagled their way underneath the soft material and behind the waistband of his jeans. I pulled him close. “I want to make love.”

“For twelve days? Then I’m off the hook?” He looked so relieved I almost giggled.
I pushed my pelvis against his cock and smiled when it twitched back to life. “Yes.” I grabbed his ass and gave it a tight squeeze. Then, I ran my mouth up the side of his neck to his ear, nibbling the lobe. “You interested?”

Visit Casey at http://www.caseycrow.com/. On Facebook at Casey Crow and Twitter at caseyecrow.

Buy link: http://www.loose-id.com/Cant-Fake-This.aspx

Goals, Motivation, Writing

2011-12-08T08:00:00.056-05:00

One of the things that I've learned as a writer is that patience and determination will eventually pay off...but having solid goals, finding motivation, and making time to write will move you closer to the end result.

I allowed myself to slack a bit this year with having to weather the storm of the last three rocky ones. My writing suffered but I still managed to have small releases. I really believe my positive thinking and affirmations have helped me overcome the rollercoaster emotions. The bottom line is that: WRITING IS HARD. If you keep telling yourself you're stuck, having writer's block, or simply can't find time...you have to ask yourself "Do I really want to be a writer?"

Okay, I know we all have it tough but sometimes you just have to bite the bullet and trudge forward. Even at a snail's pace, it's progress! I've learned a long time ago that your mind is a powerful tool and if you keep your eye on the target, you can just about overcome any obstacle. Most people may not know that I'm a good example of resilience and determination. Sixteen years ago I was in a car accident that affected me severely. I had neurological complications and health related issues stemming from the impact. Doctors told me that I would most likely never be "normal" again. I was basically considered disabled. Sure, I cried a bit and felt sorry for myself but when I snapped out of the funk—you bet I searched for ways to prove to my doctors that I wasn't going to settle for being helpless. Fast forward to 2011, anyone who ever met me now would never believe that I'd battled 16 years to be the person I am now. The sacrifices I've made, the rehabilitation, treatments...everything I endured was possible because of staying positive. It's overcoming my fears that I'd never be able to be physically and mentally healthy that gave me my drive.

Although it's been a tough journey as a writer, I'm a step closer to where I want to be and I'm not going to make excuses. I'll allow myself a sabbatical here and there but writing is like breathing for me. As 2012 approaches, I know what my goals are, I'm focused about my tasks, and I'm a few baby steps away from securing the full-time career that I was born to do!

How about you?

A Naughty Christmas Carol VIDEO and BDSM Excerpt

2011-12-07T00:02:00.004-05:00

Sooo close to Christmas Eve when my modern day Scrooge, Nick Radnor, meets up with three sexy female ghosts who try to save his soul.

Here's my VIDEO for A Naughty Christmas Carol!! I hope you enjoy it.

"A Naughty Christmas Carol" Scrooge meets Wall Street from Jina on Vimeo.

And for a special Holiday treat, here's an excerpt from A Naughty Christmas Carol with Nick at Mamie's, a BDSM club. After you check out this scene, you'll know why his soul needs saving. Naughty boy...

The kiss of fire.

Nick’s nostrils flared as he wielded his silver-handled whip over the buttocks of the lovely brunette. Tanya arched her back under the blows and let out an icy moan. Nearby Kim, a perky blonde, played with her own breasts, pinching her nipples between her fingertips.

Nick counted the strokes. “Seven...eight…”

“Please…more,” begged Tanya. “More!”

Nick pulled back, enjoying her begging for it. She let out a slow breath, anticipation quelling up in her belly. Wearing a pink garter belt and white lace stockings, she leaned over a silk damask chair, her hips and bottom tipped upward.

She wobbled back and forth on her five-inch platform shoes, a sticky wetness sliding down the insides of her thighs.

She was wet.

The scent of her female essence filled his lungs, inspiring him to keep going, tempting him to raise the count to nine, then ten.

“Oh, yes…” she gasped.

Nick burped. Loudly. Must be the steak he ate. Thick, rare.

The two girls looked at each other and giggled. That set him off. He hated anyone taking advantage of him.

“Stop playing with your tits, Kim,” he ordered the blonde. “And check my markings on Tanya’s butt to see if they’re straight.”

Sobering up quickly, Kim said, “Yes, sir.”

She gave him a cute smile, then leaned over and stroked the red welts on the girl’s buttocks with her palm, counting the marks.

Nick swayed back and forth, rubbing his eyes. The intensity of his concentration had given him a fierce headache. Most likely brought on by that second bottle of Dom Pérignon.

Dizziness flooded his vision. Cold sweat covered his face, his palms. The bubbly promise of the champagne had gone flat. He was frustrated and out of control.

He couldn’t stop. Couldn’t stop.

“Now it’s your turn, Kim!” he yelled out, then struck a hard blow across the blonde’s buttocks, startling her.

“Jeez, Mr. Radnor, give a girl a break. My feet are killing me.” Kim slipped off her stilettos, then tossed them aside. “I had a rough night with the last guy.”

“You’re being paid, aren’t you?” Nick sputtered, paying no attention to her plea.

“Yeah, but--” Kim began, then stopped. Tears glistened in the corners of her eyes. She looked so forlorn, her gooey false eyelashes coming undone.

“It’s Christmas Eve, Mr. Radnor,” said Tanya, putting her arm around her co-worker. “Good will toward everybody. Even us.”

“Yeah, even us,” Kim chimed in.

“What is that supposed to mean?” Nick asked, swinging the whip dangerously close to the girls’ nude butts.

“When you first started coming to Mamie’s, you were real nice,” said Tanya. “Giving me hugs and cuddles after the spankings.”

Had she been here that long?

“We always thought you were the nicest of Mamie’s customers,” Kim added.

“And now?” Nick bellowed, throwing down his whip in disgust. His eyes crawled over their flesh, possessive, yet wanting to know her answer.

The girls looked at each other. “You’ve changed,” Tanya said. “I guess it’s the economy going bad. It’s hit everybody.”

“Especially our customers with 401(k)s invested in the stock market,” said Kim. “They only book half the time they used to.”

“But we still like you.”

Did they?

Nick brushed his hand across the skinny contours of Kim’s butt, her model-thin rear smarting from his whip. “Who do you girls think I am? Santy Claus? Well, I’m not. I work hard for every dime I make and I expect you to do the same.” He picked up his whip. “Now lean over. Both of you.”

Sighing, the two girls turned around and pushed their bare buttocks up into the air, waiting.

Letting the whip hang in the air for a long moment, Nick watched with glee their pretty faces scrunching up with anticipation. He wasn’t fooled. It was part of the act. They put on that little holiday show for his benefit.

Wanted bigger tips, no doubt.

He brought the whip down on the creamy buttocks of the blonde, then the brunette, their whole bodies convulsing, each one crying out louder than the other. The growing smell of their aroused pussies turned him on, the two girls moving their asses up then down in a sensuous rhythm so he could strike one then the other without taking a breath.

“Four…five…six,” he counted, finally stopping at twelve. His shoulders ached, his muscles squealing with pain as if they’d been ripped apart.

He ignored the agony radiating up and down his back. The deed was done. Pleasure mixed with pain. Joy with darkness. A heady combination that suffocated his pain and brought him relief.

His restless mind stilled.

Then the scene before him blurred, swirls of red and black twisting before his eyes like curling silk ribbons. Laughter, then he heard the girls scurrying away. He was alone.

Suddenly he was tired, very tired.

Nick dragged himself across the room. His head pounded like it was split open. He couldn’t make it to the elevator. He spied the big, round bed. He smiled. Mamie wouldn’t mind if he took a nap. Pops would let him out.

Exhausted, Nick collapsed on the silk sheets and passed out.

The whip still in his hand.

Next: the ghost of Nick's partner, Charlie Harris, shows up and warns him what will happen to him because of his corporate greed...

Dangerous Desires, by Brenda Williamson ~ Chapter 33

2011-12-06T00:01:00.002-05:00

Dangerous Desires

(Click the title to go back to Chapter One)

by Brenda Williamson

(A Free Read ~ A Work in Progress)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Thirty Three

Nathan woke to a strange coolness accompanied by light pressure of someone nestled against him. He opened his eyes and looked at Valentina laying along his right side. Her head on his shoulder was cushioned by the cloud of her soft dark hair spread around his face. She had her slender arm draped across his middle. It should have felt warm, not cold. Had she recently been out of the bed? It would be a reason her skin was chilled.

“Valentina?” he said to let her know he was awake.

She moan softly, as if disturbed by the sound of his voice. Her bare leg, equally as cool as her arm brushed his thigh. oddly, the minimal friction created a tingling of heat. He tensed feeling the rise of desire warming his insides. He lifted his head, surprised he was just now noticing Valentina slept with an intimate closeness, suggesting they were lovers. Memories filtered through his hazy thoughts—extreme pleasure, intense release, an strong gratification, the kind of sensations he felt during an orgasm. Yet, he had trouble recalling the sexual acts that brought to a place of contentment. Had they made love or was it a dream that had him feeling exhaustively satisfied?

Nathan put his head back down on the pillow. He closed his eyes and concentrated on the fragmented images floating around in his head. Valentina lay belly down beneath him as he frantically fucked her tight ass. Her coos of approval energized him, goaded him to act so that his animalistic approach lacked sentiment and loving passion. It had to have been a dream the way he felt possessed.

But how did a dream explain away Valentina cuddled against him, ensconced around him as if they had been more intimate than ever before?

He slid his hand over hers and up her arm, thinking to wake her. Following the curves, he caressed her shoulder, her back and skimmed over the contours of her body with a slow, inspecting perusal. She still wore a long chemise, but in her sleep it had become bunched up around her waist. It left her ass irresistibly accessible to his touch. He stroked her silky bottom and tried to dredge up personal actions like kissing the cool skin. However, brief flashes of sinking himself into her tight came instead. He hardened to the core, wanting to recreate a dream in reality.

He fingered the split of her bottom, and Valentina’s moan of pleasure captivated him. He twisted to his side and kissed her face. Circling his caress around between them, he cupped her breast and squeezed the handful of flesh cover by the cotton chemise.

"Nathan," she whispered sleepily.

Caught by the sultry tone, he lowered his head, and dragged his tongue over the thin fabric. Her nipple stiffened.

He kissed her breast between the crisscrossing of loosened ribbons over her cleavage and she rolled to her back. She stretched her arms above her head, and his access grew. He planted small kisses over her breastbone while working the ribbon free of eyelets. He nuzzled her belly with his nose between the folds of her garment. When she arched, swinging her arms out to her sides and thrusting up her chest, the chemise fell completely open. He stared at the dark areolas capping her pale breasts. Her body intrigued him. The youthful slenderness, suggested innocence, virginity, something untouched by anyone else. Running his hand over one breast, he grasped the flesh and squeezed it up. He pinched the tip with his teeth, pulled sharply and let go.

"Nathan!" Valentina’s startling sharp tone backed him off.

Swiftly, she moved off the bed, gathering her chemise closed and stared at him, wide-eyed with a horror-stricken expression that told him he had gotten the night all confused. They couldn’t have had sex...or maybe they had?

Nathan searched his memory for evidence that he had forced her to submit to his lust? But nothing hinted they did anything that they both didn’t enjoy.

..............Read more in Chapter 34 on Dec. 20th

Brenda

http://www.brendawilliamson.com/

PS: If you read my last post...Interruptions to Normal, I told you about my mother's illness. Sadly, my mother died on Dec 2nd. She will be missed, but we are strong realists and our lives go on.

December Madness

2011-12-05T02:00:00.002-05:00

Ready, set, go! The holiday season is upon us along with all the ensuing craziness.

Things are particularly hectic at Casa Daniels this year since my parents will coming to stay with us for a week before moving into their snowbird condo a couple days before Christmas. We also have other relatives coming for a week around New Years. Add to that all the Christmas and Hanukkah activities and you have reigning chaos.

But between the shopping trips, cooking marathons and seasonal decorating, I always try to assess the previous year. What did I do right, what did I do wrong?

One thing that I think I did right was to self-publish a few manuscripts I had laying around collecting dust. The proceeds from said dusty books more than paid for all the gifts this year, and then some. I also wrote and sold my first series, Long and Hard. Amazingly, I had fifteen books release in 2011 - my most fruitful year ever, by far.

Some things I'd do differently if I could - I'd devote more time to sitting with my butt in the chair, writing. I'd attend more chapter meetings of my local RWA chapter and I'd read more books. The beautiful thing about every one of these coulda-shoulda-woulda's is that I can change them all in the coming year.

What about you? What habits would you change if you could? Will you?

HOT NEW BDSM RELEASE - SUBMISSION BECOMES HER!

2011-12-02T00:00:00.001-05:00

I have a new release out with Ellora's Cave called SUBMISSION BECOMES HER and it's hot, hot, hot! It's also my first romance that focuses primarily on the BDSM aspects of a relationship. .

You're thinking, what the heck is she talking about, right? Because you know I always put a little sexy spanking and bongage in my books. At least whenever the h/h will go for it!

But this is the first book that's all about the hero dominating his very willing and submissive lover in the bedroom. Of course, there is still the overarching true-love romance, but in this case, I really tried to delve into exactly what the heroine is experiencing in her head during the BDSM scenes.

I wasn't sure how this approach would work for me - I usually write in a style that most would call "BDSM-Light." But I ended up having a really good time with this story, as I hope you will. Trust me - it's hot, it's sexy and it's romantic!

Happy Reading!

She wants to be dominated by a man and he's going to help her live out her every
fantasy!

Josie Roberts has a secret fantasy. She wants to be dominated, to feel owned by a man in the bedroom while being his complete equal outside of it. Finding that man has been difficult, however. But then she meets “Sir Dom” in an online BDSM chat room. After weeks of cyberspanking, Josie and her online Dom are both ready for the real thing, so they decide to finally meet in person.

When Josie arrives at the restaurant, she’s stunned to discover “Sir Dom” is none other than her ex-boyfriend Gavin Elliot. She can’t believe it. He might be gorgeous, but when it came to sex, he was about as vanilla as a man could get. Or so she’d always thought.

It turns out Gavin had kept his dream of dominating a woman in the bedroom a secret, too. And now, he’s going to live out every fantasy he’s ever had by tying her up and spanking her until she begs for more.

Excerpt:

Without a word, he snaked his hand in her hair and with a firm, but gentle tug, tilted her head back. The show of dominance made her go gooey inside and she gripped the front of his shirt for support as he claimed her mouth in a scorching kiss.

“Tonight, and for every night after, you’re going to be my submissive when we’re in this room, and I will be your master,” he rasped. “Is that understood?”

“Yes,” she panted.

“Say it,” he demanded.

“Tonight, and for every night after, I will be your submissive when we’re in this room,” she promised. “And you will be my master.”

The words were a vow, and as she said them, Josie knew they tied her to Gavin as completely as if they were married.

Taking her hand, he picked up one of the leather cuffs from the bed and slipped it over her wrist, tightening it so that it fit snuggly. Then he did the same with her other wrist. Her heart was beating so loudly she was sure he must be able to hear it, but he made no comment as he led her over to the foot of the bed. Turning her to face it, he put his hand on her back and bent her over the bed. She wondered if he was going to cuff her hands behind her back with the sturdy- looking hooks that were attached to the leather. The image sent a quiver through her.

But he instructed her to put her hands above her head. She started to ask why, but remembered the vow she’d made and caught herself. She rested her cheek on the coverlet and obediently placed her arms out in front of her on the bed. Gavin took her right wrist and slid her arm closer to the edge of the bed. A moment later, she heard a click as he attached something to the leather cuff. Or rather, attached the cuff to something on the bed. She automatically gave her wrist a tug, but it wouldn’t give. That was when she saw the strap hanging over the side of the bed. It was some kind of restraint system, she realized as Gavin secured her other wrist to the opposite side of the bed. She gave that one a tug, too, but it was just as tightly bound as the other.

“Spread your legs,” he said softly.

Josie was so busy thinking about the restraints on her wrist, she didn’t realize Gavin had come around the bed to stand in back of her. Afraid he would think she’d forgotten her place already, she quickly spread her legs. It was only after she did that she realized just how vulnerable she was in that position, and as Gavin fit the leather cuffs around her ankles, she had to fight the urge to close her legs.

She expected him to secure them to the bed the same way he’d done with her wrists, but instead, she felt him attach something to the inside of the cuff around her right ankle. When he did the same to the cuff on the left one, she realized it was some kind of bar designed to keep her legs spread. If she’d thought she felt vulnerable before, that was nothing compared to how helpless and exposed she felt now. It had her so wet, she was practically gushing.

She sensed Gavin straighten up behind her. She automatically tensed, waiting for him to reach for either the paddle or the leather strap—both of which were still on the bed and in view. But he only ran his hand over the curve of her ass. Then gave it a firm squeeze.

Watch the Trailer!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSq8cBkCiwc

Buy it at Ellora's Cave!
http://www.jasminejade.com/p-9765-submission-becomes-her.aspx

*hugs*
Paige

"Stories so hot, they'll make your cheeks blush!"

http://www.paigetylertheauthor.com
http://paigetylertheauthor.blogspot.com

Writing Resolutions

2011-11-30T16:27:00.001-05:00

Okay, don't panic everyone, but I thought I should mention that tomorrow is December 1st. (How did this happen???) In amongst all the forthcoming holiday madness, I've decided to make some changes to my writing habits next year. I don't know if any of you make resolutions or actually stick to them for the New Year, but for 2012 I've got a whole ton of projects lined up waiting to be written, and that requires putting down actual new words on the page.

I just sent a project out last night, so I'm glad to have that off my plate, but I hate the waiting, which will be extended now due to the holidays. But what's the best way to forget about something you've got out on submission? Write the next book!

I've been really bad this year with my discipline. I got stuck (and still am stuck) in the middle of a book that by rights should have been turned in last Christmas. *hangs head* So in 2012 I've got to get tougher with myself.

My question to you lovely Naughty Chicks is: What tricks do you have to help you complete a project? As I said this one's way overdue, and mostly I blame it on sheer laziness. Writing short, hot novellas is a lot of fun, but I also can't neglect my other persona, especially when I've just received an e-mail from the publisher's executive editor, pretty much asking when the next book in the series will be done. (Eep!)

The only thing I've found that helps is going to the local library to write for a few hours after I drop the kids off in the mornings. With fewer distractions there and resisting the temptation of hooking up to the Wifi, I can usually force myself to get some new words down. I wish "force" wasn't the right word, but in this case it's the truth.

What about you? Do you have any writing resolutions or a bag of never fail tricks?

Until Next Year!

2011-11-29T05:00:00.000-05:00

I looked up last week from my computer mid-NaNo-hibernation and realized…*&^%$%^!!...November is almost over! Holy &^%$%^##@!! When did that happen? Just warning you. This month my vocabulary deteriorated. I saved all the big words for my book. But it zoomed by and now I’m staring down the stretch of this crazy writing month, three days away from D-Day. My goal—obviously—was to achieve the illustrious 50,000 word count…yeaaahh, well, gonna fall a little short of that. But I should reach about 42,000 by Wednesday, which, hey! Isn’t too shabby at all! Especially considering my all-time high was 15k…I’ve waaay outdone myself! What was the difference between this year and years past? Was I more determined? Had a great outline? More prepared? Yes. Yes. And *&^&%$!! yes! But the really motivating and defining factor of my NaNo sojourn this year was me. Yes, ‘lil ‘ol me. Well, maybe not so little after all those snacks and cups of sugar and cream laced with coffee. But my mindset was different. I saw it as more than a lark but an honest-to-goodness accomplishment to obtain. I had something to prove and it was all to myself. That I can be disciplined and focused and achieve a goal I set forth. I proved to myself during these past 28 days that I could write a certain word count in a day—every day—no excuses. That I could write a rough draft without being Mrs. Perfection-Thou-Name-is-Anal. Hell, I gave myself permission to write a bad book, and did it! Only…it’s not so bad. Yes, there is repetition and run-on sentences and an inconsistency or two in personality that I need to go back and clean up. But I gave myself permission to leave the imperfections. I included a comment to go back and fix it and then kept it rollin’! It felt…It felt *&^%$%# good and liberating! And I’m honestly excited about going back and editing it. I know that sounds like straight fiction, but I am. But it’s not just the editing process where I can really flesh out and energize sentences, but seeing it shape up into something truly wonderful. To see the culmination of a process started. So though I didn’t reach the 50k, I gained more this November than I have in NaNo’s past…besides weight. I’ve learned about myself as a writer. And that is priceless. Will I do it again next year? Does Symphony bars come in King Size???

Bit of Trivia: The movie Water for Elephants starring Reese Witherspoon and Robert Pattinson was based on the novel of the same name, which was originally written during…you got it! National Novel Writing Month! How cool is that?

Thanksgiving Sex

2011-11-28T06:00:00.007-05:00

The American Thanksgiving holiday is done and gone: turkeys stuffed and eaten, dishes washed, guests most likely out the door (unless you have some stragglers you haven't yet evicted). My mind has cleared enough from the stress of family gatherings to return to the important topics in the world. Sex.

I just caught an article on CNN.com's belief blog about the Puritans, Thanksgiving and sex. This is not a combination I would have previously considered. One does not imagine the Pilgrims of Plymouth celebrating Thanksgiving in a wanton way. But apparently the New England Puritans not only had been found to indulge heavily in spirits under the right circumstances (funeral celebrations for instance), but looked upon the Catholic church's preference for sexual abstinence as unscriptual. Church of England members were disciplined if they refused to have sex with their wives and women could sue for divorce if husbands were unable to satisfy them sexually. Apparently sex (within marriage--they weren't that non-traditional) was more than celebrated.

I've learned never to be surprised by new nuggets of information from history. People have always been sexual beings. It's part of who we are. So why not the Pilgrims as well?

Thanksgiving is not a holiday I imagine to be sexy, although I did write one sexy fantasy short story set during this yearly feast. That was a while ago, but I'll include the link for fun. I think reading the above article I am going to have to rethink my mind frame at next year's holiday dinner.

Happy Post-Thanksgiving.

Holiday blues

2011-11-27T08:03:00.000-05:00

I think I've turned a corner. I almost hesitate to jinx it, but for about 10 years this was a rough time of year for me, and so far...I'm okay.

Everyone has their own “triggers” but some of the ways I’ve learned to defend against the blues, you may find helpful too.

First, eliminate unnecessary stress.

I’ve gone on strike when it comes to cooking Christmas dinner and our few remaining family members go out to a big Christmas brunch at a lovely hotel. It’s a treat and we all enjoy it.

I used to let my husband do all the decorating. I didn’t complain about the lights and garland absolutely everywhere and he didn’t complain that I wasn't helping.

Second, replace the things you miss.
I read a study recently that receiving gifts makes people happy, but giving gifts makes the happiness last longer. No wonder I missed shopping for family members. It was the giving I missed! Even in this economy you can find bargains or make little gifts and give them to people who have been good to you during the year. You can even stop by your local fire house or police station with something—just because they’re there.

Third, be good to yourself. Do things that make you happy.
I bought a timeshare in Florida for the first week of each year. It gives me something to look forward to and makes my workaholic husband take some time off. We always have a wonderful time, if for no other reason than having lots and lots of “vacation sex.” Now there’s a great way to relieve the tension of the holidays when they’re finally over!

Are you struggling to make ends meet and can’t afford to do anything that spendy? Well, I empathize. I used to be a single parent and almost every penny went to pay rent and bills. My daughter and I made a list of all the things we liked to do that cost little or no money. Try it, you might be surprised.

Here are some of the things from our list:
Go to the perfume counter at any department store and try the free samples.
Do each others’ hair and make-up.
If you have a fireplace, enjoy gazing at it or toast marshmallows.
Feed the birds and watch them from your window.
Put flowers on a neighbor’s doorstep, ring the bell and run away.
Sing along to the radio.
Read books from the library. Especially fun if you read to each other.
Watch a comedy on TV.
Bake something.
Go to a music store and listen to new selections with headphones.
Find a store with music boxes and play as many of them as you want to. (It’s good for them to be played. Not good for them to sit unused for long periods of time.)
Make your own bath salts. (Just Epsom salt and a few drops of fragrant oil.)
Use them and take a long, hot bath. (Good for arthritis.)
Write to an old friend.
Make a new friend.

Finally, count your blessings. There’s always something to feel good about. Do you have a place to live? A car? Two feet you can walk on? Two arms you can hug with? A pet? A friend? There are always people who have less than you or have to deal with circumstances you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy.

“Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain.”
--Anonymous

Debut coming soon

2011-11-26T09:53:00.003-05:00

I'm so excited to announce my debut will be out Dec. 6 with Loose, Id. It's funny how things work out. CAN'T FAKE THIS started out on a whim. At the last minute, I decided to enter this 10,000 word contest. I’d written spicy mainstream, but this was my first dive into erotic waters. I didn’t win the contest, but after having what I thought was a good start, I added some more words and low and behold, this erotic became the first manuscript I sold.

The story is about a divorcee ready to reenter the dating world. Anna Ryan is determined to be the best “product on the market,” which requires a lot more experience so she propositions sexy police officer Chase Harris to teach her how to make hot, passionate love as opposed to just having sex. He takes it a step further, instructing each lesson based on The Twelve Days of Christmas.

The blog tour kicks off soon on there will be a huge blog party on my website Dec. 6 where 12 authors will be doing 12 give-aways to go along with the 12 Days of Christmas theme in the story. Best sellers & RITA nominees from various genres will be there!

So do you have a story about a book or something that came to fruition but never should have? Something that happened because you acted spontaneous and it changed your course of life? I'd love to hear about it!

The Best Kept Secret

2011-11-24T07:00:00.165-05:00

I can't tell you how much I love the holidays and spending it with loved ones—BUT, I must confess—I have always had a weakness for the home-cooked feasts that will keep my tummy happy for days... My mouth is watering just thinking about the awesome dinner spread that takes most of the day to prepare. Being raised in the Deep South, there are some things that are reserved for such a special occasion....yes, beyond the juicy fried turkey, a mountain of side items, and the delicious desserts with whipped cream on top—oh my!—there's a secret weapon that many may not know about. It's called the Old Fashioned Cherry Coke Salad and it's the best darn companion to the Turkey Day feast that you'll surely dream about for years to come.

Move over boring cranberry sauce...this is a heck of a lot tastier and memorable. Believe it or not, I normally NEVER share this recipe because I've tweaked it a zillion times over the years to my liking...but because this is my first Thanksgiving with the lovely Naughty Author Chicks, I'm spilling the best kept secret that I've ever kept. :P

Now you can stash this recipe away to pull out for your next holiday feast. Bon Appétit!

Old Fashioned Cherry Coke Salad

Ingredients:

1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapples (I prefer Dole brand), drained but juice reserved

1/2 cup water

1 large (8 serving size) cherry flavored Jello

1 can (21 ounces) can of sweet Bing cherries or dark sweet cherries in heavy syrup (must be this type only!), drained but syrup reserved

1 (12 oz can) of chilled Coca-Cola

Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, marshmallows

Directions:

Drain pineapple and cherry, save the juices in saucepan; set fruit aside in refrigerator. Bring fruit juices to a boil, remove from heat and whisk in the Jello powder until fully dissolved. Measure off 4-Cups of liquid from the Coca-Cola (can substitute with Dr. Pepper or Cherry Coke), transfer to a bowl or mold and stir in the pineapples, cherries, and nuts (optional). Add marshmallows when it just starts to set and can still sink into the bowl/mold. Allow to set from 3-5 hours and do NOT stir!

For topping: Mix cream cheese and sugar in a bowl; fold in Cool Whip or whipped cream until it is fully combined. If you'd like a simpler topping, just add a dollop of cottage cheese to each serving.

To increase this recipe: Add 4-Cups of liquid to every large package of Jello or 2 cups per 1 package of small Jello.

* * * *

HAPPY THANKSGIVING! May it be a safe and joyous one!

Here's also a shout out to all the men and women serving in the military...a big THANK YOU for all you do in keeping us safe. I'll be raising a glass (or two) of wine to you!

Titanic Rhapsody

2011-11-23T00:02:00.002-05:00

My Katie, the intrepid heroine in my Titanic epic, has found a home...

ELLORA'S CAVE

I so excited to be with Ellora's Cave!! I've been a Titanic enthusiast for a long time and I've seen every Titanic film I can, including A Night to Remember and the German film, Titanic, made during WWII. I'm so looking forward to seeing James Cameron's "Titanic" in 3-D in April 2012.

Like so many passengers on the Ship of Dreams, I'm Irish--so I had to write a story about an Irish girl coming to New York on this grand ship.

Titanic Rhapsody is the story of Katie O’Reilly, an enterprising Irish lass who takes the place of the Countess of Marbury when the Titanic sinks, and how a dashing gambler, a wealthy industrialist and a bet made between them changes her life.

Katie rises to the heights of New York Society–only to see it all threatened fifty years later when her secret is revealed…

I've been tweeting everyday aout the Titanic and blogging here at NAC about everything from icebergs to teddy bears (with more to come!). The 100th anniversary of the sinking of the ship is just months away...

My Titanic story is a moment-by-moment account of what it was like to be on board the Titanic during those days and nights from April 10 through April 14, 1912, when the liner hit an iceberg through the eyes of my heroine, Katie, and her dashing gambler, Captain Lord Jack Blackthorn, and the Countess of Marbury, who is also in love with Jack.

I don't have a cover yet--so I put together this piece of concept art (photos: http://www.dreamstime.com/) with Katie and her mum's rosary to celebrate Katie's new home at Ellora's Cave.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!!

Dangerous Desires, by Brenda Williamson ~ Chapter 32

2011-11-22T00:01:00.037-05:00

Dangerous Desires

(Click the title to go back to Chapter One)

by Brenda Williamson

(A Free Read ~ A Work in Progress)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter Thirty Two

Valentina pretended to sleep. When bored, she often remained unmoving throughout a whole day. She didn’t find it hard to lay as if she were dead. Her mother often expressed worry over such an ability. Valentina saw it as nothing more than normal.

Nathan stroked her hair. His silence said he believed her pretence. She couldn’t read his thoughts as she would have liked. Every time she tried, her emotions muddled her senses. What she needed to do was concentrate on remaining motionless. His close inspection was maddening. The heat of his breath on her face threatened to disrupt her stillness—drawing down her guard before she was ready.

She considered what to do next, how to proceed with her seduction of him, before his seduction of her, ruined her plans to use him. If she learned one thing from her ill-tempered, abusive father, it was control gave her power.

Once Nathan’s breathing slowed, she rolled over and moved against him. Asleep, he’d not be able to hold her at bay as if he didn’t desire her. The warmth of his body stimulated the blood flowing through her veins. Her skin palpitated with her increasing pulse. Internal heat flushed to the surface of her cool skin.

As much as she wanted his unguided attention, she began to wield her influence. She slipped her fingers beneath the buttons on his silky white shirt. When one popped free, she slid her palm against his warm chest. The soft fibers of hair over his muscles attracted her like the soft fur on Molly’s belly, but in a different, sensual way. His heartbeat captivated her.

A low moan stirred from him as she fingered one of his hard nipples. She leaned closer and unbuttoned his shirt more. The rise and fall of his chest had quickened. His breathing was no longer shallow. She pulled his shirt aside and licked his chest, causing another rumble of sound to part his lips.

Yes, she thought, willing him to wake—to want her.

She moved her hand down his abdomen and over the front of his trousers. The bulge of his cock beneath the fine linen grew harder. The touch of his hand over hers was the first sign he heard her unspoken plea to consciousness.

The magic of manipulating someone’s mind had increased since she had met him, and she liked the control. However, her present desires went to allowing Nathan a sort of free-reign with his actions. She had read enough to know what to expect, but no sexual experience beyond the brief encounters she had indulged in with him.

Nathan rolled toward her. He pushed her onto her back while his hands roamed over her. He kissed her body through her undergarments, wetting the fabric in every place he lingered. Then turning her on her side, to her belly, he did the same over her back and her buttocks. At his tug to her knickers, she lifted her hips. The cottony fabric glided down her thighs.

"Gorgeous," he praised, pressing his lips to her cool bottom.

She shivered, excited by his licks and the sensuous flicks of his tongue swiping through the split. Her insides tightened. She rose up on her hands and knees, spreading her legs, encouraging his attention.

He rubbed his finger against her anus, stimulating the nerves. "I’m going to fuck you here."

Aroused by his forceful tone, eager to know the depths of her long suppressed desires by experiencing any form of sex, she voiced her agreement, “Yes.”

Her bottom twitched, and in that moment, he entered with his caressing finger. The penetration wasn’t as gentle an outcome as she had expected. He continued probing, thrusting one and then two fingers into her bottom until he had her stretched and accepting. Then he stopped.

She thought she had lost her hold on his awareness. Yet, when she glanced back and looked into his glazed eyes, dark and lustful, her fears vanished. She watched him move off the bed. He removed his shirt and discarded it to the floor. Then he unfastened his trousers. His cock sprang free and he cradled it in his hand. She licked her lips, wanting to run her tongue along the shaft or suck on the head.

He reached out for her, grabbing her by the hips and guiding her closer to the edge of the bed. She turned her head to break the fixation of his stare on hers. Once done, he resumed his attention on her hind-end. He kissed and caressed her buttocks.

She felt herself losing herself into the tenderness of his motions, calming her concerns, driving her toward the delirium of an orgasm. What would Nathan say, if her hold on his mind dissipated?

She trembled when he pressed his finger into her again. His other hand moved beneath and rubbed against her pussy. Instantly, he curled his fingers up into her and quickly stroked.

"You like that, don’t you?" He dipped farther without losing his momentum.

“Yes,” she gasped, her focus split between his rapid fingering and her concentration on keeping him oblivious of his behavior.

The orgasm spilled from her like a gush of warm water. Her vagina contracted on Nathan’s knuckles, but was soon constricting on nothing as he withdrew them. He wiped his wet fingers against her anus, inserting them. Then he replaced them with his cock.

He firmly held her hips and pushed his rigid erection into her while pulling her against him. His methodical motions, jerked her back and forth until he was fully inside. He slid his hands up her back, shoving her chemise to her shoulders. His hold was demanding. Every lunge slammed his groin against her buttocks. His thighs slapped the back of hers.

She hadn’t realized the sounds, the grunts and squeaks she was making until he spoke.

“That’s it, let me hear you,” he demanded.

She gripped fistfuls of the bedding, searching for support as Nathan’s pounding became more erratic. The friction of his plunges heated her to the core. A glorious sensation zipped through her at the same time Nathan hammered into her so hard, she collapsed on the bed. He came down on her. Flattened on the mattress, she lay complacent under his merciless weight. It lasted a few seconds, then he rose up, propped on his hands and resumed driving his cock into her bottom.

His guttural roar met the rhythm vaulting her into a rapturous moment, and he went still. His discharge filled her, spilled to her legs as he backed out. He flipped off her, panting heavily.

When she dared to turn her head and look at him ten minutes later, she saw his eyes were closed and his breathing had returned to normal. Did he know what he had just done or had she succeeded in keeping his actions separated from his memory? Until he woke on his own, concerns he’d send her home hung heavy in her thoughts.

..............Read more in Chapter 33

Brenda

http://www.brendawilliamson.com/

Series Complete

2011-11-21T10:53:00.001-05:00

The third book in my Long and Hard series from Ellora's Cave was released last week. Crescendo is book number 13 for me at Ellora's Cave and I'm hoping that doesn't translate to bad luck!

There's a sense of completion with the release of the final edition of a trilogy, like I was holding my breath until the other shoe fell. I know, this is my own personal neurosis, but I felt like if something happened and the final book wasn't released, the whole thing would be a waste. But it's here so I can tuck away Wynter's crazy self and relax. Am I the only one who thinks like that? (Please, humor a crazy person)

Here's a little about Crescendo:

After a painful break-up, concert violinist Chloe Carmichael just wants to be alone. But when she is targeted by a stalker, she’s forced to allow a sexy stranger into her life.

Security expert Wyatt Long is trying to protect Chloe. Staying as close as he dares to the beautiful musician proves difficult when she insists on performing a public concert. When the job becomes personal, he has way more to lose than a client.

And if you are so inclined, you can read an excerpt HERE. I'll give one commenter a free download.

NEW RELEASE - SANTA'S WAYWARD ELF!

2011-11-18T00:00:00.001-05:00

I love writing holiday romances, especially Christmas-themed ones, but when my hubby (who is also my writing partner!) suggested we write a story about one of Santa's Elves, I was like, "You're kidding, right?" Silly of me, actually. I mean, we pulled off a zombie romance in DEAD SEXY, which turned out to be an EPIC Award Finalist, by the way. Hubby still had to do some convincing, but he did it, and as we outlined the story, I completely fell in love with the heroine Sosie, a guileless elf who doesn't fit in up at the North Pole and ends up stranded in NYC on Christmas Eve where she meets and falls head over heels for a hunky cop. I think you'll fall in love with her, too!

Happy Reading!

Being one of Santa’s elves isn’t all sugar plums and candy canes.

At least not for Sosie. Taller than the other elves, she’s always had a problem fitting in at the North Pole, so when the transport sled she’s on breaks down in New York City on Christmas Eve, she can’t resist slipping away to explore the world of the “big people.” While she’s having fun, the transport sled takes off, leaving the naïve elf stranded.

Fortunately, handsome police detective Derek Clayton comes to her rescue, offering to let her stay at his apartment. Having heard horror stories about the big people, Sosie is both surprised and relieved to meet such a kind, sweet man. Not to mention one so gorgeous and well-built.

Even though Sosie expects the North Pole to send out a search party any day, she finds herself falling for Derek. She desperately wants to tell him she’s an elf, but knows he’ll never believe her. When the lies and omissions start to pile up, Derek can draw only one conclusion—Sosie is working for the mob boss he’s been after for years.

Just when things seem like they can’t get any worse, the chief of elfin security shows up to drag Sosie back to the North Pole. How is a runaway elf supposed to overcome a determined security elf, dangerous mobsters and a suspicious boyfriend all while keeping her pointed ears a secret?

Excerpt:

By the time the party wound down a few hours later, Sosie was more aroused from her fantasies than she’d ever been in her life. She was an elf in lust and nothing was going stop her from getting Derek into bed with her tonight. She didn’t care how much of a gentleman he was, there was no way he was sleeping on the couch again. In fact, if she had her way, he wasn’t going to be sleeping at all.

After they got back up to his apartment, however, her confidence faltered. But then she thought of the frustrated night she would assuredly have ahead of her if she didn’t proposition Derek, and how much she would regret it when she left.

Taking a deep breath, she turned to face him. “I had a great time at the party. It was very nice of you to invite me.”

He grinned. “I’m glad you came. I had a good time, too.”

Sosie nibbled on her lower lip. Okay, it was now or not at all. Time to be a bold elf. She looked up at him. “You know, I feel awful about putting you out of your bed again. I was thinking maybe you might want to sleep with me tonight.”

He studied her in silence, his dark eyes unreadable. Sosie held her breath as she waited for him to say something. What if Tracee and Linda had been wrong? What if Derek wasn’t as “into her” as they’d thought?

“If I share the bed with you, Sosie,” he said softly, “sleeping is the last thing either of us will be doing.”

She gave him what she hoped was a flirtatious look. “Good. Then the mistletoe won’t go to waste.”

His mouth curved into a grin at the tiny sprig of greenery dangling from her fingers. “Mistletoe, huh?”

“I thought I could put it wherever I want you to kiss me.”

He chuckled. “Honey, you don’t need mistletoe for that. I’ve spent the past two hours fantasizing about kissing every inch of you.”

Her pulse skipped a beat. “You have?”

“Uh-huh.”

Cupping her face in his hand, he bent his head to cover her mouth with his. This time, there was no hesitancy in the kiss. This time, his mouth moved over hers with an urgency that left her breathless, and she had to cling to his shoulders to keep from melting as his tongue plunged into her mouth to take possession of hers. It was as if he couldn’t seem to get enough of her. The desire was mutual. She couldn’t get enough of him, either.

With a groan, Derek swung her up in his arms and strode toward the bedroom. She’d never had a guy do something so romantic before—mainly because she was always taller than the elf guys she’d slept with—but she decided it was very hot.

Once beside the bed, Derek set her on the floor, letting her slide slowly and deliciously down his body. Arms still looped around his neck, she pulled him down for another kiss. This time, she was the aggressor, her tongue seeking his and exploring every inch of his tasty mouth.

Derek groaned and ran his hands down her back to firmly cup her ass through the tight jeans she wore. She murmured her appreciation against his mouth as he pulled her more tightly against him. His erection strained against his jeans, pressing into her tummy. Mmm. Well, that answered the question as to whether he was well built everywhere. It felt as if he had a huge candy cane hidden in there.

Suddenly impatient to see how well built, Sosie ran her hands down his chest to the bottom of his shirt and urgently pushed it up. Derek must have thought she needed some help because he reached back and pulled it over his head to toss it on the floor.

She’d thought getting a glimpse of him without a shirt last night had been a treat, but seeing all that sculpted muscle up close was even better. Figgy, he was gorgeous.

5 Hearts from Sizzling Hot Books!

"Sosie is an elf that has never really fit in at the North Pole, so she decides to try the South Pole. But, when the sled she is on has trouble, she is enchanted by the city lights, the BP world (Big People) and wanders away. Needless to say, the sled takes off without her and she is stranded in the city. Sosie is a charming character. She knows only what has been shown on the local North Pole news about the big world and so while a little bit knowledgeable, her innocence and naivety are absolutely charming and funny.

Derek is a detective with the NYPD and when he finds Sosie, he can’t just let her venture about on her own. Taking her home may have been the best decision he’s ever made or it may turn out to be the worst when things start to fall apart. Derek is definitely an alpha male, but a gentleman with a heart of gold who likes to help women in trouble.

I have to admit that I read Santa’s Wayward Elf in one sitting - I couldn’t walk away from Sosie. This is one of the most unique, sweet and yet still sensual holiday stories I have read in a long time. There wasn’t a slow point to be found in Santa’s Wayward Elf as Paige Tyler weaves for us remarkable characters within a fairytale life that really embraces the Christmas spirit and spreads it to everyone that touches the pages!"

Watch the Trailer!
http://youtu.be/oEz-Rlqp0G4

Buy it at Whiskey Creek Press Torrid!
http://www.whiskeycreekpress.com/torrid/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=4&products_id=622&zenid=bfe7e3fcc71ed5a58a86c82d95c01468

*hugs*
Paige

"Stories so hot, they'll make your cheeks blush!"

http://www.pigetylertheauthor.com
http://paigetylertheauthor.blogspot.com

Still Truckin' Along

2011-11-17T03:15:00.000-05:00

Anyone who thinks it’s possible to just sit down and bang out a story, even a bangin’ story, is sadly mistaken. It takes time to get to know the story, to flesh out the characters. And if you’re a by the seat of the pants writer like I am, that means a tremendous amount of rewrites along the way.

My biggest challenge by far is to write a confident, assertive, energetic heroine. I’ve never been confident, struggle with assertion (kinda goes with the confidence thing), and I’m an admitted couch potato. Oh, and did I mention that the hero I’m currently trying to flesh out is a mere 2.5 years younger than my oldest son? And the heroine is my age? That doesn’t help.

Truth is, I’ve been working on this story for quite some time, and I’m pretty sure my editor and crit partners don't think it will ever be finished. I’d agree, except for one thing. I’ve passed the point of no return. I love the characters, and I think they’ll find their way into the reader’s heart as well.

So I’m going to persevere on this one. I’m invested. I’m confident. I’m asserting that I’m going to park my ass on the couch and get this puppy finished.

No Holds Barred

2011-11-16T11:00:00.001-05:00

No Holds Barred, my first menage story, releases from Carina Press next Monday. I've never written a one before, and it sure shocked my poor crit partner when it arrived in her inbox without me warning her first. She replied with, "Um...WOW." It's all good though, I didn't scar her emotionally or anything.

It's a quick read, born from a lull between Kaylea Cross stories when I just wanted to let my hair down and let loose for a bit. But it's not your typical menage story. It's filled with a wealth of emotion and tenderness, and I hope it curls my readers' toes.

Blurb: During a playful talk about fantasies, Caitlin’s fiancé offers to give her a threesome—with his best friend, Liam, who’s coming to spend the weekend. At first Cait is shocked that Nathan could entertain the thought of sharing her with another man, but once he’s planted the idea her imagination runs wild, leaving her deeply aroused—yet still unsure about what the implications could be for her and Nate’s relationship.

Nathan’s watched Cait struggle to hide her attraction to Liam for years. He knows she’s nervous, but he also knows that by making her most intimate fantasies come true he can bring her to heights of pleasure she’s only imagined, and strengthen their bond. There’s only one way to help her overcome her inhibitions—by planning a night of ecstasy she’ll never forget…

Considering my love of military men, I should also mention that both guys in this story are former Marines :) If you're interested, you can find an excerpt here. I'll also be giving away copies in contests next week at various blogs, the details of which will be on my Facebook page. Hope this story helps keep the November chill away! Liam also has his own story, Let Me In, which releases next year.

Winter Romance; It's Dark Out There

2011-11-14T08:28:00.001-05:00

The clocks turned back the weekend before last, and now I find myself ready for bed by 5pm. It's dark so early, it feels as though I've walked miles by the finish of every evening. I'm wondering about the upside of the time change for the modern non-agricultural residents of this planet. Is there an upside to extra dark? And then I thought romance.

If the darker, less pleasant weather cocoons us inside more often, this becomes prime time to snuggle down with a loved one. Perhaps the early dark is an excuse to rejuvenate connection and contact with a partner. Watch more movies together. Read together in bed. Or do other activities in bed (wink, wink, nudge, nudge, know what I mean, eh?)

Winter weather (if one lives where winter rakes its frigid claws down one's goose-pimpled flesh) can be harsh and unpleasant. (I'll put aside attraction for winter sports enthusiasts.) Although I've suggested winter darkness provides great moments for extra cuddling, I also thought about romance books set during the winter season. Aside from those novels using devices such as two lovers snowed into a secluded cabin, or the many amazing seasonal Christmas stories (see Penny Watson's latest release, Sweet Magik, for an awesome example) few of the romances I read are set during winter.

Is it the inconvenience of describing characters climbing in and out of heavy winter gear to go outside together? Or the fact that snow might slow down the action adventure romance? Are layers of clothing less sexy? Maybe I am miscounting the prevalence of winter set romances. I read a lot of fantasy and sci-fi romance and perhaps winter is underrepresented in those. Certainly none of the novels I've written are set in snowy months, but I am sure this is a personal bias. I am not a winter sports enthusiast and I abhor cold.

If someone undertook a research study that measured the most common season used in romance novels, which would win? Spring, summer or fall? I'm betting it's not winter, snuggling opportunities notwithstanding.

What's your guess?

Best Things About the South

2011-11-11T01:00:00.001-05:00

By: Casey Crow

Having just returned from the Southern Magic Readers Luncheon in Birmingham, Alabama (got to meet the fabulous Naima Simone!), I experienced southern hospitality at its finest. This got me thinking about other great things about my part of the world, so here's my list of favorites. I hope you will add to it.

1. Sweet tea and sweeter accents
2. Macaroni & cheese is a vegetable and pecan pie is a staple
3. Y'all is a proper noun
4. Smocked dresses and hairbows as big as a little girl's head
5. Front porches are wide and words are long
6. Sultry summer nights that start in April
7. Mardi Gras
8. SEC football
9. Pageants are serious business
10. Everything is darlin' and someone's heart is always blessed

Enjoy life and take advantage of the uniqueness of your area, no matter where you live!

Inspiration is out there

2011-11-10T07:00:00.003-05:00

One of the biggest obstacle for an author is hitting a wall during the most crucial moments in her writing career. Some things in life we just can't anticipate or prepare for, but we must gather the strength to move forward no matter how difficult the situation.

Sure, there are times when there's a rush of creativity, where everything goes beautifully and the sailing is smooth...then there are times when you free fall off a cliff into the deep hole of insecurity, self-doubt, and depression--into a place that makes you question your decision to become a writer. Was it worth all the struggles and tears? If you answered "HELL, YEAH!"...then you are definitely meant to be a writer.

But, but, but....even when everything seems to be caving in on you, there's nothing more refreshing than a touch of inspiration to spark renewed life in your writing...in YOU. Sometimes we find inspiration at the oddest times and from the most unexpected places but it's out there. Inspiration is everywhere and you just have to open yourself to it...in order to find it. It's easier than you think and when you can hold onto that feeling--the excitement--that power will surge through you and you'll know it's the one thing you can control. Your story is a part of you that you're sharing with others. Your writing isn't just a passion but a way to unleash all those emotions. Just remember, your characters, your story is providing inspiration to others..it's true, and someday when you're down, you might get a letter, an email, a facebook feed that will prove otherwise. I guarantee months or years from now when you pick up your published work and re-read it, you'll be proud of what you've accomplished. Overcome. Conquered.

Photo Credit: liz green

All you need to know about the Hunter

2011-11-09T00:02:00.007-05:00

Who is the Hunter?

He’s a character I’ve had in my mind for some time. A mysterious adventurer who has an almost mystical power to know what a woman wants and needs in bed. He has an unlimited fortune that allows him to roam the world doing just that.

Sound sexy? There’s more.

I’ve also been intrigued by the popularity of one-night stands.

You see them in films, short stories, anthologies and novels. That naughty deed that allows you to indulge in your fantasies with a stranger without worrying about what he’ll think “the morning after.”

Not all one-night stands are about sex. Sometimes you meet a man outside your normal environment and because he’s a stranger, you talk about things you wouldn’t with anyone else. You never see him again, but you come away wiser and more confident about yourself.

That’s what I wanted to write about: an erotic short story (under 5,000 words) where the sex is hot and the Hunter helps the heroine discover something about herself that makes her blossom as a woman.

I’ve just self-pubbed the first story, “Breaking the Rules,” [available on Amazon and Smashwords for $.99!) and I’ve included the blurb and excerpt in this post.

But first, tell me, what do you think about one-night stands?

------------

“Breaking the Rules”

The Hunter knows what a woman wants in bed…and he always delivers. Going from town to town, he fulfills a woman’s most intimate, sexual fantasies.

A one-night stand she’ll never regret.

He has the power to give each woman what she needs, whether it’s oral/anal sex, BDSM, ménage, foreplay, sex toys, role playing, etc. He takes on whatever persona necessary to focus on her needs, her emotional core.

Her sexual adventure takes center stage in every Hunter story.

In “Breaking the Rules,” Elaine is a rules-kind-of-girl, whether it’s at work or in the bedroom. She sets out on journey of self-discovery when she meets the Hunter, who shows her that rules are made to be broken.

The Hunter is coming to your town…are you ready?

Excerpt from “Breaking the Rules:”

“I'd like to interview you for my book,” said the Hunter, looking at her crossed bare legs under the table. Without thinking about the consequences, she uncrossed them.

“Me? A legal secretary?” she said, closing her laptop. That was a silly thing to say. As if she had no identity other than what she did for a living. That didn’t surprise her. She'd been so focused on her job, she hadn't had a date in months. Not since Hank broke up with her via a text message.

“I think you'd make an interesting chapter, Elaine.” He put his hand on her knee, making her stiffen.

“I don't read those kinds of books,” she said, avoiding his gaze. It was a lie. She did read them, the ones with the highlander heroes and the bold heroines. She loved staying up all night reading a spicy novel, a vibrator in one hand and an e-book reader in the other.

The battery gave out before she finished the book.

“No harm in asking,” he said, offering her a lemon drop. She shook her head. “You look like the adventurous type.”

“No way. I play by the rules,” she blurted out, then wished she hadn't. Hank had made it clear she was anything but adventurous. Boring but dependable, like her white cotton panties.

No wonder he fell for a girl who went commando.

“Bet I could change your mind.” He popped another lemon drop into his mouth and began sucking on it, licking his lips in a provocative manner that mesmerized her. Made her wish she had the courage to allow him to focus his attention on her throbbing clit.

But that, too, was against the rules.

She said, “I bet you couldn't.”

“I'd like to try.” He took her hand in his under the table and squeezed it, then stroked her palm with his fingers, sending tiny shivers through her.

It seemed natural for her to squeeze back, a heat rising in her that begged to ignite and forget he was a stranger. To let him do with her as he pleased.

Why not? For a reason she didn’t understand, she felt close to him, like she knew him. As if he were one of the scowling heroes she swooned over in the novels she read.

A modern-day warrior rescuing a lady in distress in the midst of battle.

She let her natural instincts take over when he blew in her ear, making her tremble with pleasure. A sigh that turned into a moan escaped from her lips. A sound of frustration that was an invitation for him to take her where she wanted, where she needed, to go.

Over the edge. With him.

She turned her face toward him, her eyes questioning. She didn't protest when he pulled her to her feet and urged her to follow him into a dark corner. Before she could take a breath, his arms were around her, his firm lips on hers and, finding no resistance, she felt his tongue probing her mouth, searching and exploring her inner recesses as if she were already naked.

She grabbed his shoulders and he drew her closer to him, crushing her breasts up against his bare chest. Feeling the warmth of his body against hers, she couldn't stop rubbing against him and delighting in the sensation of her hardened peaks skimming over his chest, her breasts aching for his touch.

Elaine panicked. The idea excited her, but he wouldn't reach through her blouse to fondle her breasts, squeeze her nipples, not here.

Would he?

NEWS:

TITANIC RHAPSODY -- my romance novel about the ship of dreams will be available from Ellora's Cave in 2012.

More info in my next blog...

Interruptions to Normal

2011-11-08T18:50:00.000-05:00

Life always manages to throw curves into everyone's plans. Well, this week I was hit with too much to concentrate on getting my next chapter of Dangerous Desires done and posted. My Mom got sick and her stomacache led to a week hospital stay and the discovery of growths in her lungs and kidney. Today she had surgery to remove what was on her kidney, but it became a problem not easily solved. So, she's still in the hospital. As she is the daily babysitter of my four year old newphew, I had to take over the task. Anyone with kids knows, a four year olds rarely lets you get anything else done. Not only do I have to watch him, but I do so while working my day job--online retail. Thankfully, I do that from home.

Hopefully, my life will return to normal and my story will resume in two weeks.
Until then, here's a recipe that may come in handy for one of your future busy days.

Lita's Breakfast Muffins
I got this recipe from my sister-in-law. They're easy to make, and they freeze well. Perfect for those days you'll be too busy to get breakfast during the holiday season.

Ingredients

1 tube Pillsbury flaky biscut dough

3-1/3 cups Shredded Cheddar/Colby Jack Cheese
1 pound cooked ground sausage
3 eggs, beaten

Optional additions are cooked and minced: onion, green bell pepper, jalapeno, and for a festive feel add diced red pimento or used red bell pepper with the green peppers.

Instructions

Separate each biscut into three layers. Flatten each layer and line 24 muffin cups.

Mix other ingredients together well and fill the lined muffin cups, mounding is okay.

Bake 15-20 minutes in a preheated 325 degree oven.

Eat warm, eat cold, freeze for another day!

Writer's Internet Toolbox

2011-11-07T04:00:00.012-05:00

I'll share a little secret with you. We writers sometimes need help with word, with motivation or character development. So many things go into writing a book -- too many to list. But I have a list of helpful sites I refer to over and over. Since I'm in a generous mood, I'm going to share some of those sites;-)

Here's a blog with loads of terrific posts from writers, agents and industry professionals - http://writerunboxed.com/

Karen A. Fox has been a longtime favorite site of mine. She lists romance agents and publishers - http://www.karenafox.com/publishers.htm

Here's a list of keyboard shortcuts that has come in handy for me more than a few times - http://www.nouilles.info/keyboard_shortcuts.html

Author Kristen Lamb has a very informative blog about writing and promotion that's always worth a read - http://warriorwriters.wordpress.com/

Our very own Jax Cassidy is co-founder of this site, which is chock full of great info, from online classes to forums full of helpful tidbits from authors - http://romancedivas.com/

Last, here's a post that catalogs many review sites that get awesome traffic - http://kathleendienne.com/review-sites-roundup/

This should get you started. Do you have any go-to sites you'd like to share?

Squee! New Contract with Ellora's Cave!

2011-11-04T00:00:00.001-04:00

I'm so excited! I just signed with Ellora's Cave for my BDSM erotic romance SUBMISSION BECOMES HER!

Here's the blurb!

Submision Becomes Her

Josie Roberts has a secret fantasy. She wants to be dominated, to feel owned by a man in the bedroom while being his complete equal outside of it. Finding that man has been difficult, however. But then she meets “Sir Dom” in an online BDSM chat room. After weeks of cyberspanking, Josie and her online Dom are both ready for the real thing, so they decide to finally meet in person.

When Josie arrives at the restaurant, she’s stunned to discover “Sir Dom” is none other than her ex-boyfriend Gavin Elliot. She can’t believe it. He might be gorgeous, but when it came to sex, he was about as vanilla as a man could get. Or so she’d always thought.

It turns out Gavin had kept his dream of dominating a woman in the bedroom a secret, too. And now, he’s going to live out every fantasy he’s ever had by tying her up and spanking her until she begs for more.

*hugs*
Paige

"Stories so hot, they'll make your cheeks blush!"

http://www.paigetylertheauthor.com
http://paigetylertheauthor.blogspot.com

Toys-4-Us

2011-11-02T21:07:00.030-04:00

I had a goal in mind for today's post; I really did. See, there are these seven incredibly talented authors who got together to write a series about getting together in San Antonio and drinking chocolate wine and flavored vodka. Oh, and, you know, having an adult toy party 'cuz did I mention that each of these authors is a hot ticket? LOL!

Anyway...

Every four months, the Sassy Seven (Alix, Caitlyn, Emily, Giana, Hannah, Petra and Sara), get together for a long weekend to reconnect, relax and have some fun. This fall, the ladies met in San Antonio to celebrate Petra’s birthday. And oh what a celebration it was. The chocolate wine and flavored vodka got everyone in the perfect mood for a party. An adult toy party.
Each of the women went home with a pink satin bag full of tantalizing fun, aching to invite the man of their dreams over for some sexy playtime.

Dalton again. Sounds amazing, right? But wait, there's a blog, too! http://toys4ustales.blogspot.com/

So my goal was to post the cover pics and whole blurbs, and let you know how you can get your hands on these stories for just .99 CENTS EACH! Seriously, move it. They're only .99 cents until November 30th. So where did I go wrong? Um, I couldn't get past the need to keep the covers large. I tried. I really, really tried. I could go on explaining myself, but I'll let you see why for yourselves. (So please forgive me for taking huge liberties with the blurbs, only because the full version is available with the click of a button.)

Once you tear yourselves away from the covers long enough to click the links, you'll find out how hot the books are, how to get them in your hot little hands for .99 cents, AND how to WIN A KINDLE FIRE! Nope, not kidding.

A Long Time Comin'
by Cerise Deland

A sex toy party with her six sassy gal pals? Caitlyn Hagerty is IN! When Delta Force hunk John Ramos flies home on R&R, Cait promises herself to seduce Ram–or cut him from her life forever.

READ FULL BLURB, EXCERPT, AND PURCHASE HERE!
(DD: Let your eyes slide on back to the left now that you know his nickname is Ram.)

WIN A KINDLE FIRE!

Bound and Determined
by Desiree Holt

Alix Townsend, uptight, high-powered litigation attorney, has a wild side she rarely unleashes. Deep inside, beneath her tailored suits and frosty image, beats the heart of a woman who dreams of the kinkiest kinds of sex. Preferably with her next door neighbor Mack Taylor.

READ FULL BLURB, EXCERPT, AND PURCHASE HERE!
(DD: And find out where Mack first sees her toys - that naughty girl!)

WIN A KINDLE FIRE!

Good Vibrations
by
Nicole Austin

The pink satin bag stuffed full of erotic toys is like a flashing neon sign. Sara wants sex and there’s only one conceivable option.

READ FULL BLURB, EXCERPT, AND PURCHASE HERE!
(DD: You know you want to find out who that option is. C'mon now!)

WIN A KINDLE FIRE!

Private Showing
by Brenna Zinn

Gianna Romano has a dream, and she doesn’t have time for a man. Not even the sexy Scot with a delicious accent who wants to unleash her lust and make her a permanent fixture in his life, as well as his bed.

READ FULL BLURB, EXCERPT, AND PURCHASE HERE!
(DD: Sexy.Scot.With.Accent. Oh, man, I'm so there!)

WIN A KINDLE FIRE!

Slippery When Wet
by Allie Standifer

Flush with the success of her birthday party and thrilled with her Toys-4-Us goodies, Petra Harbor heads home to Houston. Until a little snag has her calling the last man she needs to see but the first one to star in her fantasies.

READ FULL BLURB, EXCERPT, AND PURCHASE HERE!
(DD: It's her ex's best friend. Does it get any hotter than that?)

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Wet Ride
by Samantha Cayto

General contractor, Kevin Brandt, has the right tools in his belt to keep a lady happy. He wields a flogger and a hammer with equal skill. He’s on the prowl for a strong woman who will trust him with her body.

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(DD: Oh...My...God! What are you doing reading my words? Look left. LEFT!)

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Whiz Bang
by Regina Carlysle

Hannah West needs some whiz bang, baby. And after attending a raucous sex-toys party with her best buds, the Sassy Seven, she aims to fulfill that urge. If it means hunting down a man or two to experiment with battery-operated pleasure, then so be it.

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(DD: On the bed, against the wall, in the shower. This is verbatim from the blurb. Click already!)

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Eye of the Beholder

2011-11-02T12:34:00.001-04:00

As I've only recently dipped my toes in the erotic romance waters, I'm still surprised by some of the things I find. The latest puzzle is over how differently reviewers and readers rate erotic romance books.

Take a really well known/revered author like Megan Hart. She's sold thousands upon thousands of books, has a hard core fan base, and still the majority of her books are rated an average of just over 3 stars at places like Goodreads. I know reader taste is highly subjective, but I find it swings even more wildly in erotic romance.One reader will give a low rating because the story wasn't kinky enough.Or romantic enough. Another will hate it because it was too kinky/harsh. Others will love it and rave to all their reader friends. I don't know why this is, but I have a theory.

There's such a huge range of tastes when it comes to sex and sexy books, it makes it impossible for an author to please the palate of every reader. Are erotic romance readers tougher on books than readers of non-erotic romance? Something that always surprises me is when someone gives a low rating on a novella because they felt it was too short. If something important is missing from the story or character development, I can understand. But giving a book a low rating simply because you felt it should have been longer? That mystifies me.

To sum it up, I think it's even tougher for an author to get rave reviews with erotic romance because people's tastes and expectations are just so incredibly varied. Is it just me, or have you noticed it too? I'm bracing myself for criticism as my upcoming releases approach.