As spring begins to settle over the countryside, I begin to look forward to my traditional journey to the Romantic Times Booklovers Convention, this year being held in beautiful Columbus, Ohio.
This will be my fifth consecutive convention, and I feel very fortunate that I’ve been able to go each year. The purpose, of course, is in support of my career as an author; but it’s not all work for me.
Once again my beloved has decided not to accompany me, so I’ll be traveling with my good friend and fellow Siren-Bookstrand author, Raina James, and one other Canadian, a New York Times Bestselling author known to us both. Since Columbus isn’t overly far, we’ll be traveling by car.
I’m looking forward to getting together with old friends as well as meeting new ones. There’s something about being in the company of readers and authors that I find very exhilarating. It simply gives me goose bumps when someone comes up to me and says they have read one of my books, or that they always read this essay. That’s everything, isn’t it? Oh yes, it’s nice to make some money, but for me by far the greatest perk to being published is knowing that people read my words.
I revel in the company of fellow authors. No one understands the writer like another writer. Again, I feel very blessed because I have a small, tightly knit circle of friends in this community. Spending time with them is the absolute highlight of any convention, and I consider the friendships I have with them to be one of my greatest treasures. I simply cannot imagine my life without them.
As you know, I have discovered, sadly, that I’m not a party animal. However, I do manage to party it up a little at these conventions. I’m not much of a drinker. I can tell you that I always have some form of libation on hand here at home. I can also tell you that those bottles have dust on them. Once in a while I like a drink, but often, just having it on hand is enough.
I’ll be attending the two book signings again this year. The convention features an “e-book fair” on the Wednesday, and a regular book fair on Saturday. Most of my titles are now available in print. The only exception is Reckless Abandon and Brazen Seduction, and they will be available, together in one volume, later in the year.
I’ll also be spending a fair bit of time at “Club RT”. If you happen to be going to the Convention, I’d be thrilled if you looked me up there. I’ll be easy to find. I’ll be at the Siren-Bookstrand table.
I’m glad we’ll be traveling by car this year. Inevitably, when I attend this gathering, as well as the Romance Writers of America National Conference, I end up with a lot of books. Some are free, but some I buy. And I don’t ever get rid of books. I consider them my friends. The only exception to this rule would be if I end up with two copies of the same novel. Then I usually give the extra one to my daughter.
One of these days I’ll have a completed library at which time I will un-box all my books and set them about. Of course, being anal, I will have to have them in alphabetical order (by author name). Prior to doing this I may hold a contest, asking for guesses as to how many books I have in my collection (and yes, of course I am going to count them). The last time my daughter and I counted them, it was a good five or six years ago and the number reached was around three thousand.
One view is that I am, perhaps, a bit of a packrat. The other, of course, is that I never turn my back on a friend.
Love,
Morgan
http://www.bookstrand.com/morgan-ashbury
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Wednesday's Words for March 31, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Angelic Forecast ~ #82
Something I should know about? The words echo in my brain.
“The volcano wars are upon us, as they are known in my realm,” the Heavenly One answers. “There are those who have created beam-like technologies. They will use them as weapons to split Mother Earth apart wherever they choose. Their goal is to frighten the human population into believing their planet is coming apart, and warring against them. This is not true. Mother Earth has never felt a need to fight against the human life populating her lands, her precious shores. The Mother is desperately seeking those who will defend her against this evil, this ever-spreading darkness. She asks everyone to pray for her. She asks everyone to walk gently upon her Spirit, and to stop the chemical poisoning of her soils for their sakes, as well as for All life. For, we are a web of life and in connecting to one another, we influence one another for the benefit of All, or for the detriment of All.”
“Oh, God,” I murmur. Not only do I react to the Cherub’s words, but to the feeling of disaster that is like a tsunami through me. “Hell is unleashing itself, isn’t it?”
~~~~~~
This week the dynamics of the Light and Dark will be in high profile. As more individuals awaken to what has remained hidden, their awareness will sweep over the world in a massive tidal wave changing ‘everything’ forever. The world as it once was, will seemingly change overnight.
On a personal level, this week is about planning for the future. Your future and the future of all those you hold most dear. Specifically, look for new and creative ways to gain those things we all need, food, shelter, a life that is valued. The old ways of earning a living are gone for the most part. It is time to create anew. It is time to resurrect your Spirit, and move forward.
Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS
Where angels fear to tread, 2012 Earth ~
Is a stranger on a superspeed motorcycle her savior from the brutal endtimes?
Blurb: Winter Solstice, December 21, 2012 – The end of the Mayan Calendar
What happens when a world weary, worn out incarnated angel, Sedona, who believes she is merely human has three choices after her old van breaks down? ...more
~~~ NOW IN PRINT ~~~ a former #1 on Siren-BookStrand’s bestseller list ~
Author Discovery by Lindsay Townsend, BookStrand author of FLAVIA’S SECRET, A SECRET TREASURE, BLUE GOLD, BRONZE LIGHTNING, SILK AND STEEL and HOLIDAY IN BOLOGNA ~
http://sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com/2008/08/author-discovery-savanna-kougars-when.html ~
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS ~ adventure fantasy erotic romance ~ available from BookStrand ~ http://bookstrand.com/savanna-kougar ~
~~~
HAPPY EASTER!
~ MAY YOUR BRIGHTEST, MOST ROMANTIC READING DREAMS COME TRUE ~
Kisses from Savanna Kougar...
~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
Siren-BookStrand Author of ~
All Shades of Blue Paradise
[World of the Blue Pearl Moon, Book 1]
When a Good Angel Falls ~ In Print
[Winter Solstice 2012, Book 1]
Murder by Hair Spray in Gardenia, New Atlantis ~ In Print
[New Atlantis Trilogy, Book 1]
Her Insatiable Dark Heroes ~ In Print
[Chrontropolis, Book 1]
Stallion of Ash and Flame ~ released September 24th, 2009 ~ In Print soon.
Branded by the Texans [Three Star Republic] ~ E-available August 2010
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Wednesday's Words for March 24, 2010
I’m grateful for a lot of things in my life.
I’m grateful to have a roof over my head, clothes in my closet, and food on my table. I’m grateful that in the last few years, I have been able to write, and have my work published, and read by thousands.
I’m grateful to be in a family of smart asses.
Our second daughter had moved to a city nearly an hour away, and so we haven’t been getting together as often as we all would like. From the first day she came into our lives, the one thing she has really loved was “family dinner”. She’s a nurse now as well as living an hour away, and it’s not easy to plan a time to gather for this ritual. But finally, this past Sunday, we enjoyed a family dinner.
I planned simple fare—roast beef, potatoes and gravy, broccoli—and how wonderful it was to have the table full, with conversation and laughter.
And how wonderful that the girls—our daughter and our second daughter—got up to do the dishes afterward. And that is when I recalled that I live in a family of smart asses.
“Now remember, stack the plates symmetrically.” That was my daughter and I did not for one moment think my constant teaching was finally bearing fruit. I recognize sarcasm when I hear it.
“So, symmetrical…what does that mean, exactly? Is one woman’s symmetrical another’s…hmm, what is the opposite of symmetrical?” My second daughter posed this question as she dried the plates, both ladies talking like I wasn’t right there listening.
I didn’t rise to the bait of the teasing tone, neither did I respond “asymmetrical” to the question of opposites, and I think I should get credit for that.
“How’s this?” My second daughter stacked the plates, the smallest on the bottom, the largest in the middle and then waited for my reaction.
“What do you think?” I asked.
“Sure, you say that but if I put them away that way you’d freak.” And then she smiled.
I wouldn’t have freaked, but I might have said something. Maybe. Probably.
Beside my keyboard is a pen that has four colors of ink. I have a quaint habit. I take an index card when I am writing, and put the title of my work-in-progress at the top, and then I list each chapter and the page numbers and the number of words, and then I have a running total of words written for the novel. Chapter numbers I write in black ink, the running total in red. Yes, I know that it’s anal. I am anal. It works for me.
My fifteen-year-old grandson came into the kitchen with this pen in his hand.
“Honey, put the pen down, please. I need it.”
Second daughter picked up the pen and shook it at him. “What were you thinking? This is a pen! A pen is not for the fingers of teenagers! A pen is to be respected, revered and treated with care. A pen is to be cherished! I mean, yes, a pen is just a pen to some, but to others it could be symmetrical!”
I looked at second daughter and shook my head. “You really fit into this family,” I said.
She smiled. “I think so too.”
Yep, a family of smart-asses. Kind of brings tears of pride to my eyes.
Love,
Morgan
http://www.bookstrand.com/brazen-seduction
Monday, March 22, 2010
Happy Release Day for Engaging Evelyn
Good Morning, everyone! I wanted to share my new release with all of you. Engaging Evelyn is the first book in the Blissful Bets Series. I have to say, I absolutely loved writing this story. I've listed the information below. Be sure to check out the trailer!
Blissful Bets
By: Jennifer Salaiz
Categories: Erotic Romance, Contemporary, Multiple Partners, Vampires/Werewolves
Word Count: 40,561
Heat Level: SCORCHING
Published By: Siren-Bookstrand, Inc.
[PolyAmour: Erotic Multiple Partners Sharing Paranormal Romance, M/F/M, Vampires, Werewolves]
Determined to overcome her broken heart, Evelyn devises the game Bets. She’s sure that if she stays distracted by good looking men, her problems will go away. But what she doesn’t expect is the persistent, gorgeous Brandon conveniently appearing everywhere she turns.
Brandon moves into the resort style condo prepared to make Evelyn fall in love with him. The last thing he expects is the ex fiancé showing up and complicating things. On a mission to make Evelyn pay, Brandon’s not willing to let anything get in his way. Even if that means submitting to the feelings he’s truly beginning to feel for her.
Order Now!!http://www.bookstrand.com/engaging-evelyn
Book Trailer- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4hfrTCJf1o
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Angelic Forecast ~ #81
I stare at rolling clouds of black smoke. I have no idea where the Heavenly One has taken us. I see nothing but billowing black smoke below. Or, what looks like smoke. There is no smell. Silence hangs as heavily as the cloud-like blanket of smoke forming above us. Somehow words seem to be taboo. I pull Moon Dream closer, wondering, feeling staggered... but, do I really want to know?
There are no good possibilities that I can think of... and I don’t want to think about what it could be... or what’s happening... or why... or...
The silence continues. The black clouds roll and boil faster around us. They are thicker. I should be smelling the stench of whatever the horror smoke is from. Below, I glimpse what could be the tops of buildings, what could be a section of a city. But, I don’t know.
I shut my eyes. “Something I should know about?”
~~~~~~
The following week should be lived with an attitude of caution. Major events on the world stage, and in your personal life, are likely to occur that will determine the future for years to come. The endgame is to *use* whatever occurs to your best advantage and to minimize the immediate affects. This goes for yourself and for everyone you love, everyone you know. This is a directional week, meaning it’s like a compass. Wherever the compass is pointed by those holding the compass, that will be direction taken. How to know the best direction? Seek spiritual guidance in the manner that best serves you.
This is also a week to continue Spring projects. It’s full steam ahead.
Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS
Where angels fear to tread, 2012 Earth ~
Is a stranger on a superspeed motorcycle her savior from the brutal endtimes?
Blurb: Winter Solstice, December 21, 2012 – The end of the Mayan Calendar
What happens when a world weary, worn out incarnated angel, Sedona, who believes she is merely human has three choices after her old van breaks down? ...more
~~~ NOW IN PRINT ~~~ a former #1 on Siren-BookStrand’s bestseller list ~
Author Discovery by Lindsay Townsend, BookStrand author of FLAVIA’S SECRET, A SECRET TREASURE, BLUE GOLD, BRONZE LIGHTNING, SILK AND STEEL and HOLIDAY IN BOLOGNA ~
http://sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com/2008/08/author-discovery-savanna-kougars-when.html ~
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS ~ adventure fantasy erotic romance ~ available from BookStrand ~ http://bookstrand.com/savanna-kougar ~
~~~
HAPPY SPRING!
~ MAY YOUR BRIGHTEST, MOST ROMANTIC READING DREAMS COME TRUE ~
Kisses from Savanna Kougar...
~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
Siren-BookStrand Author of ~
All Shades of Blue Paradise
[World of the Blue Pearl Moon, Book 1]
When a Good Angel Falls ~ In Print
[Winter Solstice 2012, Book 1]
Murder by Hair Spray in Gardenia, New Atlantis ~ In Print
[New Atlantis Trilogy, Book 1]
Her Insatiable Dark Heroes ~ In Print
[Chrontropolis, Book 1]
Stallion of Ash and Flame ~ released September 24th, 2009 ~ In Print soon.
Branded by the Texans [Three Star Republic] ~ E-available August 2010
All the Right Reasons ~ CRW Award of Excellence Finalist!
All the Right Reasons has been named mainstream finalist in the Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence!
All the Right Reasons | ||||||||||||
| By: Sandy James | Other books by Sandy James Categories: Mainstream Romance, Contemporary, Women's Fiction Word Count: 113,271 Heat Level: STEAMY Published By: Siren-Bookstrand, Inc.
Can love heal all wounds? Lucas Mitchell returned from Iraq a bitter, changed man, wracked with guilt over his friend's death. He buys an old mansion and deals with his injuries and grief by restoring his new home and rehabilitating retired racehorses. Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence Finalist for best 2010 Single Title 7 Ratings Avg - 4.9
|  All the Right Reasons Available in: Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Reader, HTML, Mobipocket Price: $5.99View Larger Cover Image Cover Art by Jinger Heaston Trade Paperback $15.99 |
New G-Spot!
Highlights this issue:
• What I’m Reading/Recommended Reads
• This Issue’s Novel Excerpt: EVIL WAYS by Justin Gustainis
• This Issue’s Spotlight Author: JUSTAIN GUSTAINIS
• This Issue’s Newsletter Contest – SUBSCRIBERS ONLY!
And more!
To check out past issues or to subscribe, visit: http://tinyurl.com/m2qpaa
To read the current issue, visit: http://tinyurl.com/y8oxybu
Enjoy!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
RT Review -
Today I received the April copy of RT Book Reviews and it starts out like this on the Urban Fantasy page:
WELCOME TO MUDFLAT, BABY
4.5 (hightest rating) = FANTASTIC- Keeper
The second book in the Mudflat series is a supernatural comic romp full of non-stop action, fantastic characters and a hero you’ll love. Tarvik and Claire balance each other perfectly as they battle the forces of evil. Two subsequent books in the series are available.
SUMMARY: Mudflat definitely has its own zip code. There are wizards, trolls, witches, and other assorted residents with varying degrees of magic at their fingertips...
For more about the Mudflat series, check out Phoebe Matthews at http://phoebematthews.com
Friday, March 19, 2010
DABWAHA 2010
Having been away for a while, I only discovered this morning that Blue Gold was chosen to participate in DABWAHA 2010, run by Dear Author and Smart Bitches, Trashy Books. 
Whatever happens, I'm delighted to be nominated in some very strong company. If you want to take part in the voting, here's the link.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Wednesday's Words for March 17, 2010
I can still recall one time when my mother lamented that she used to enjoy going out and about to exhibitions and fairs or just shopping, but that she couldn’t anymore because her arthritis had become too severe, and she couldn’t walk very well or for very long. I don’t think I was much more than fifteen at the time. I told her that if she wanted to go to the exhibition (Canadian National Exhibition in late August) or anyplace else, that we could go and rent a wheelchair and I would gladly push her wherever she wanted—that her lack of mobility didn’t have to mean doing without those outside entertainments.
Mother was horrified. I believe it was one of the few times she actually sputtered. She said that she would never be seen in a wheelchair being pushed about by her daughter as if she was disabled, and how could I even suggest such a thing! Her reaction confused me at the time, for I’d always known her to be a logical woman, and this reaction I believed was totally illogical.
Flash forward about thirty-five years, and I’ll preface the rest of this essay by saying that I have learned that sometimes earlier incidents rise up to bite us in the butt.
Like my mother, I suffer from severe osteoarthritis. I believe I’ve mentioned before that I need a cane to walk. This condition isn’t getting better, and actually became worse this past summer when I fell while on vacation.
Recently I applied for and received an “accessible parking permit”. This permit allows me to park my car in the designated handicapped spots here in Ontario. I’m not sure if I can use it when I travel to the United States, or not. That’s something I shall have to look into.
The reaction of every member of my family to the news of my having obtained this new car accessory is, “well, it’s about time!” Even some of my beloved’s co-workers have had the same reaction.
I think I understand my mother, now.
I’m not sure if I can adequately explain to you the combination of relief and sorrow this permit represents for me. On the one hand, I can park closer to the entrances of stores and restaurants. Sometimes, that can be a huge blessing, especially during busy times in very big parking lots.
Those who can walk mostly don’t think there could possibly be a down side to such a tool. But there is. Applying for that permit meant I was admitting to myself that I’m not ever going to walk unassisted again. Yes, I know, at least I can walk, and I’m usually the first one to count my blessings. But to a certain degree everything is relative. I can walk very short distances at a very slow pace. But I can’t run. I can’t dance. I can’t go on hikes, or climb trails. I can’t go for walks along the beach, or anywhere else, for that matter. But in my mind, until recently, a part of me hoped that I would, one day. Applying for that permit felt like giving up all hope.
That same psychology, for me, applies to my getting a scooter. I know I need one. Especially if I want to continue to go to conferences like RT and the RWA Nationals. The companies that make the scooters and power chairs advertise their service as a giving back of independence, and I suppose in a way they do; but they only give independence from other people. You’re still dependent on the machine, which in my mind and in my heart feels like dependence, period.
I know that if the choice is between using a scooter to do and see, or not doing and seeing, then a scooter is in my future. And I know, that in time, I’ll adjust completely and even be glad I decided to “get on with it”.
But in the mean time I’m reminded that what may be a blessing in one person’s eyes isn’t necessarily the same to another. And I’m reminded, too, that whatever my opinion of another’s circumstance may be, I need to forget my opinion and pay attention, instead, to their feelings.
Love,
Morgan
http://www.bookstrand.com/brazen-seduction
Monday, March 15, 2010
REVIEW -
"Meanwhile back in Mudflat...."
In our last visit with Tarvik and Claire, the amulet had been delivered to Sergei Brown, the 150 yr old mage of Mudflat to be stripped of its power along with the Deathwalker, currently residing in a pink plastic coffin in Sergei's basement (a fact the walls of his house were not at all happy about!) Well, the fact is that if you are 150 years and counting you tend to forget a few inportant things - like depowering something that could cause havoc. Yep. He did.
When Claire meets Nicky's newest guy she immediately is put off and feels he is more than he seems to be - or less like the rest of Nicky's "guys". Turns out she is right. When he buys a gold coin from a pawn shop and won't return it she knows something's going on and involves the whole crew plus the Decko brothers who, for once, seem to be on the right side of things.
Working her temp job at the bank, tutoring at the Center, searching for Lavon's pasta sauce ingredients (the best anywhere), trying to find the amulet, keeping the Deckos in line and Nicotania from hexing any and all with boils and hangnails, Claire tries her darndest to keep Tar out of the middle of things but, when they hear moaning from Vern Price's basement - it all goes south in a hurry.
Every year I wait to hear from our dear Dee that Phoebe has written another Mudflat book. This one is as good if not better than the last three. Dare I say I think we should contract screenplays beginning with book one: Tarbaby Trouble. This set of stories doesn't just entertain, they involve you!
Reviewed by Nancy Eriksen
ParanormalRomance.org
All the Right Reasons ~ Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence Finalist
I'm thrilled to announce that All the Right Reasons, Damaged Heroes Book 3, has been named as a Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence Finalist in the Single Title category! I'm honored to be included among so many well-known mainstream romance authors!
*hugs*
Sandy
All the Right Reasons | ||||||||||||
| By: Sandy James | Other books by Sandy James Categories: Mainstream Romance, Contemporary, Women's Fiction Word Count: 113,271 Heat Level: STEAMY Published By: Siren-Bookstrand, Inc.
Can love heal all wounds? Lucas Mitchell returned from Iraq a bitter, changed man, wracked with guilt over his friend's death. He buys an old mansion and deals with his injuries and grief by restoring his new home and rehabilitating retired racehorses. Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence Finalist for best 2010 Single Title 7 Ratings Avg - 4.9
| All the Right Reasons Available in: Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Reader, HTML, Mobipocket Price: $5.99View Larger Cover Image Cover Art by Jinger Heaston Trade Paperback $15.99 |
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Angelic Forecast ~ #80
In a sudden flash of rainbow light we float above a glorious meadow, sunny with the arrival of Spring.
“Watch and listen. There is a fairy below us. Her name is Khryn.” The Heavenly One smiles jovially, his twinkly purple eyes on both me and Moon Dream.
Certainly in the mood for anything GOOD! I gaze downward, quickly enchanted by the blossom-blowing meadow, itself.
“What? No leprechaun?” I ask, swinging my legs.
“No pot of gold, either,” he banters. “But gold there is. I promise.”
Khryn watched the golden unicorn appear in Spring’s flowering meadow, arriving from the Mist Realm. Excitement and hope flapped her lacy crystalline wings rapidly, yet with complete silence. She crept around the Walnut tree’s trunk, peering more closely at the glorious beast, who grazed on the violets. If only she could move without detection for long enough, his gleaming golden back would be hers for as long as she wished to ride him. Well aware of how keen the unicorn’s senses were, Khryn dashed for the berry thicket, her speed like a breeze’s song. From bloom to leaf, she fluttered.
Her tiny form hidden by a cluster of daisy leaves, Khryn peeked out. Directly ahead, the unicorn’s beautiful sun-kissed tail swished with contentment. Her heart quickened it’s throb in celebration. She was close enough to wing astride him. Pausing, Khryn spider-webbed her senses seeking out the stallion unicorn’s mood. Uh-oh, he’d felt her mental scan. On impulse, determined, she flapped furiously soaring for his back as he raised his head, preparing to run. Flying with all her might, Khryn focused on fist-seizing his shimmering mane. Her legs settled on his back as he launched into a gallop. She clung, ecstatic.
~~~~~~
For this week prepare for the arrival of Spring, notice the new green growth, the brightness of the colors as the sun shows us his face, more and more. Now is the time to ignore the dark forces that will be craving your attention. No, don’t play the ostrich. Be aware of how the dark forces manifest on the world stage, but simply go about your business. Go about accomplishing those things that will make your life more enjoyable, for both you and all of your loved ones.
Bring forth the plans that will best serve you this Spring. Birth them from your soul, your divinity and your heart. Now is the time. All of life is smiling upon you and it’s that time when the wearin’ of the green is, indeed, magical.
Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS
Where angels fear to tread, 2012 Earth ~
Is a stranger on a superspeed motorcycle her savior from the brutal endtimes?
Blurb: Winter Solstice, December 21, 2012 – The end of the Mayan Calendar
What happens when a world weary, worn out incarnated angel, Sedona, who believes she is merely human has three choices after her old van breaks down? ...more
~~~ NOW IN PRINT ~~~ a former #1 on Siren-BookStrand’s bestseller list ~
Author Discovery by Lindsay Townsend, BookStrand author of FLAVIA’S SECRET, A SECRET TREASURE, BLUE GOLD, BRONZE LIGHTNING, SILK AND STEEL and HOLIDAY IN BOLOGNA ~
http://sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com/2008/08/author-discovery-savanna-kougars-when.html ~
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS ~ adventure fantasy erotic romance ~ available from BookStrand ~ http://bookstrand.com/savanna-kougar ~
~~~
HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY!
~ MAY YOUR BRIGHTEST, MOST ROMANTIC READING DREAMS COME TRUE ~
Kisses from Savanna Kougar...
~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
Siren-BookStrand Author of ~
All Shades of Blue Paradise
[World of the Blue Pearl Moon, Book 1]
When a Good Angel Falls ~ In Print
[Winter Solstice 2012, Book 1]
Murder by Hair Spray in Gardenia, New Atlantis ~ In Print
[New Atlantis Trilogy, Book 1]
Her Insatiable Dark Heroes ~ In Print
[Chrontropolis, Book 1]
Stallion of Ash and Flame ~ released September 24th, 2009 ~ In Print soon.
Branded by the Texans [Three Star Republic] ~ E-available August 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
New 5 Star Review for 'Love Lessons with the Texas Billionaire'
Eva St John of New Dawn Magazine arrives late at a symposium and manages to embarrass herself with Jack McClaine of Mclaine Industries pulling the strings at her expense with a sexual innuendo for all to hear. Eva, not one to sit idly and take it, calls Jack out with information she received from a source. Although smoothly denying the allegation, he wants to know where the leak came from.
Intrigued by the stunning beauty who is not impressed by his wealth and status, Jack decides Eva is worth getting to know on a more intimate level. Jack makes arrangements for Eva to shadow him for a month for an in depth article on the normally private lifestyle he leads. Eva and Jack find they have more in common than the attraction they share for one another.
Love Lessons With the Texas Billionaire exudes a seductive tone throughout the story. Jack is hard to resist with his simple dialog that says so much about him and the complexities of his vulnerabilities that have him questioning when it comes to Eva. Definitely a keeper, I thoroughly enjoyed Jan Bowles’s book and plan to read more of her stories at every opportunity.
Reviewed by Emily for Singletitles. See the whole review HERE
Friday, March 12, 2010
Conquering India now on PREORDER
Woo hoo! I am so excited the Conquering India is up for preorder. I wanted to share the trailer with you and tell you that Marc and Wade are over on my Blog answering questions today. There is a nifty interview up too:) Comment or ask a ? and you get your name in the hat for a free download ARC of Conquering India.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Wednesday's Words for March 10, 2010
I recall a time when people were expected to do things. They were expected to hold jobs, to raise families, go to church, have hobbies, and give back to their communities in one form or another. Life wasn’t easy then, just as it’s not easy now. Let you in on a little secret, life isn’t supposed to be easy, period.
If something broke down you got it fixed, if something needed doing, you did it. You helped those less fortunate because you could, and because it was the right thing to do.
Then came the “me” generation, and society underwent a paradigm change. People began to focus, not on what they could give, but on what they could get. And if anything was difficult to do – be it a job or holding together a relationship – well, forget it. If it was hard, they were gone! I swear lately it seems as if a lot of people are plain and simply afraid of hard work, or getting their hands dirty, or of, perhaps, not succeeding first time out of the gate.
There are maxims that we used to hear, like “practice makes perfect” and, “if at first you don’t succeed, try, try, again.” We don’t hear those so much anymore. Instead, two words that seem to have worked their way to the top of the “spoken chart” are “I quit”.
I don’t believe in quitting, at least not at the first sign of trouble. Quitting is an absolute last resort for me, and represents, in my personal view, a failure. And I don’t believe in giving people a free ride, either.
I’m a big fan of personal empowerment. To put it bluntly, crap happens in varying degrees to all of us, and what matters most isn’t what happens to us but how we deal with it.
In any given month, I receive phone calls and snail mail appeals – as I’m sure all of you do – from various organizations and groups asking for money. There are many in need, and many different groups to which one may lend their support.
I tend to favour those groups who seek not so much a hand out as a hand up. One of those groups—my favourite, in fact—is the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists. I had Christmas cards left over from the Christmas of 2008, and only needed to purchase a few for this past holiday; those I purchased from MFPA.
For nearly fifty years, MFPA has provided an opportunity for these artists to support themselves, through sales of various items reproduced from their original paintings.
This group of talented people have taken the crap life has handed them and overcome it. Have you seen any of their work? MFPA is an international organization. Here is the Canadian web site, and you can link to other countries’ sites through it.: http://www.mfpacanada.com/english/index.html
Some of these artists were born without the use of their hands, and some suffered accidents or illness that took that use away from them. All found a way to achieve their dream of developing their talent to the max, to bring the art inside of them alive and through sheer determination and grit share it with the rest of us.
Look at the work these amazing people produce. Unless you knew the story behind their art, you’d have no idea there was anything special about the way that art was created. The paintings are beautiful in and of themselves.
Because these artists didn’t quit, because they refused to turn away from what was difficult, they were able to create a miracle.
They have made their disability disappear.
Love,
Morgan
http://www.bookstrand.com/node/806180
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Angelic Forecast ~ #79
“Wow! Where are we going now?” I half-shout to the Heavenly One while Moon Dream lays down beside me in a sphinx pose.
We zoom through the sky above a layer of mattress-looking clouds and as always it is a sweet exciting sensation.
“The future. I must show you what is forming. What will happen unless the plan is exposed.”
Already I shiver nastily inside, my dread growing. Now, I see several towering plumes of smoke, white thick columns. Soon a cityscape appears. Not being knowledgeable about cities I don’t know which large one this is. The buildings I do see, most of them are not that tall compared to New York City.
We slow and the Cherub descends until I see an enormous crater. Fires rage around the perimeter. I hear sirens. I sense the horrific panic. Yet, I see no one below.
“This is being set into motion now,” the Heavenly One solemnly intones. “We, of the Angelic Realm, would see it stopped. However, it must be the will of humanity. Intrepid individuals must speak out and expose those who are planning this attack.”
To say, I am stunned... yes, my breathing is shallow. And yet, I am not stunned. It has become the way of my world. Sadly.
I silently pray it is stopped. That the innocent are spared.
~~~~~~
For the following week you may feel split in two. Amazingly good and wonderful things will show up in your life. Simultaneously, there are likely to be situations where ‘pulling your hair out’ seems quite appropriate. How do you best handle this duality? Rejoice as you can over any and all good fortune. When the opposite occurs, first, look for the true cause or the true perpetrator. Things can be hidden from view this week.
Think the *Wizard of Oz*... and who is that man behind the curtain? From that understanding take action. If you take action without knowing who or what is actually responsible, the consequences will be tough to handle.
Also, this week welcome the blue light from the heavenly realms. For this divine radiance opens you up to new opportunities. It is the stuff of dreams.
Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS
Where angels fear to tread, 2012 Earth ~
Is a stranger on a superspeed motorcycle her savior from the brutal endtimes?
Blurb: Winter Solstice, December 21, 2012 – The end of the Mayan Calendar
What happens when a world weary, worn out incarnated angel, Sedona, who believes she is merely human has three choices after her old van breaks down? ...more
~~~ NOW IN PRINT ~~~ a former #1 on Siren-BookStrand’s bestseller list ~
Author Discovery by Lindsay Townsend, BookStrand author of FLAVIA’S SECRET, A SECRET TREASURE, BLUE GOLD, BRONZE LIGHTNING, SILK AND STEEL and HOLIDAY IN BOLOGNA ~
http://sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com/2008/08/author-discovery-savanna-kougars-when.html ~
WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS ~ adventure fantasy erotic romance ~ available from BookStrand ~
http://www.bookstrand.com/savanna-kougar ~
~~~
HAPPY MARCH!
~ MAY YOUR BRIGHTEST, MOST ROMANTIC READING DREAMS COME TRUE ~
Kisses from Savanna Kougar...
~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
Siren-BookStrand Author of ~
All Shades of Blue Paradise
[World of the Blue Pearl Moon, Book 1]
When a Good Angel Falls ~ In Print
[Winter Solstice 2012, Book 1]
Murder by Hair Spray in Gardenia, New Atlantis ~ In Print
[New Atlantis Trilogy, Book 1]
Her Insatiable Dark Heroes ~ In Print
[Chrontropolis, Book 1]
Stallion of Ash and Flame ~ released September 24th, 2009 ~
Debut Book - PERFECTION - now available in PRINT!!!
Hi -
FYI - will be turning in the next book in the series to publisher - very soon!-Kris-
www.KrisCook.net
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Win a Free Signed Print Copy Today at Rex Robot Reviews
For the past two weeks, I've been on a mini-blog tour. I've discovered a slice of heaven in various book-related sites and plan to recap next week. If you follow bloggers, add me: http://destinyblaine.blogspot.com/.
Today, you're invited to join us at Rex Robot Reviews. You'll see why this is a fabulous place for readers to gather once you click here: http://rexrobotreviews.blogspot.com/.
A book lover's paradise, Rex Robot Reviews--like so many of the other blogs we've visited--is reader friendly. After you cruise through the site, consider leaving a comment on my interview post. You could win a signed print copy from one of my Siren series. Come on over to Rex Robot Reviews.
Destiny Blaine
http://www.destinyblaine.com/
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Wednesday's Words for March 3, 2010
I have the best job in the world.
I can say that from my perspective of being solidly ensconced in middle age, and having worked outside the home for most of my nearly 38 years of marriage.
I was never afraid of hard work, nor did I ever shun boring work. I learned early in life how to keep myself interested in even the most mundane tasks by having little contests with myself—and I’ve had some pretty boring jobs, too.
My first experience as an employee was working for a neighbor who sold dew worms. He would use the same flats you could find at any garden supply store, and when the worms were ready and removed from these flats into cartons for sale, it was my job to scrape those flats clean, using a putty knife.
I was ten at the time, and earned two cents a flat.
When I was fourteen, I picked strawberries for a summer—before the days of “pick your own” fruit. If memory serves (and at my age it’s only a 50/50 chance that it does) I earned the principal sum of ten cents for each six quart basket filled. I credit this job with my aversion, beginning just a decade later in life, to “picking my own”. I always sent my husband and children to do that.
At sixteen I had a summer job at the hospital where my mother worked, and there met the side of her she showed the outside world. This turned into quite the revelation for me, and I think that and the fact that I earned the respect of my supervisor did much to improve our relationship.
I stuffed envelopes for the company that offered “insurance” to school kids; worked in a department store credit office; and did a very brief stint in a shoe factory.
Returning to work after my children were in school, I gravitated to office work, and then, more specifically, accounting. I enjoyed that, working with numbers, doing payroll and group benefits and accounts payable.
But I like what I do now best of all.
I relish the freedom of being at home every day. I don’t mind housework overmuch, and I enjoy “multi-tasking” – dishes and dusting interspersed with writing. I love that I can do what I want, when I want. Some days, if I’m tired, I crawl into bed for a nap. I can go shopping, or to lunch, if I want to. I don’t, often, but the freedom of choice is fabulous.
You know how, no matter where you work, or what you do, there’s always that one co-worker who annoys the heck out of you?
I don’t have that problem anymore. And on top of everything else, I get to go to work every day in my jammies!
But the best part of my job by far is the number of people I have met on line, and in person. It’s the emails I receive and the comments I read. I might occupy this space alone each day, but I know that I’m never really alone at all. I have all of you.
Like I said, I have the best job in the world.
Love,
Morgan
A novel so daring it could only be called...Brazen!
Brazen Seduction now available
http://www.bookstrand.com/brazen-seduction
Monday, March 1, 2010
Release Day!!!
Unspoken Desires
Daniel James, required by his alpha to attend a wolf council meeting at Vourdala Island, never expects to run into his mate, Brom McGregor. Several years ago Brom kicked him out of their pack saying he would never mate him, that he didn’t love Daniel. Running into Brom is almost more than he can handle when he knows he still loves the man.
Brom McGregor is shocked to see Daniel, the man he’s always loved and never forgotten. He’s even more shocked when his jealousy makes him to claim Daniel as his mate, especially since Brom is already married with two small children. To add to Brom’s problems, there’s a third mate, Jaryn, that Daniel doesn’t even know about, one that Brom has spent their years apart protecting.
Faced with a hunt to the death ordered by his father because he mated Daniel, Brom is forced to flee with his two small children and Jaryn. The only place he can think to go is to Daniel. Can he convince Daniel that he sent him away all those years ago to save his life even knowing that he’s putting Daniel in danger again? Will Daniel forgive him in time to save Jaryn’s life?
Buy Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/node/806209
For the story and adult excerpt, or more on the Tri Omega Mates series, visit my website at http://www.stormyglenn.com/
