With each passing year, time seems to move faster and faster. Here we are into September. Already, in my part of Southern Ontario, some trees are sporting patches of yellow and red leaves. Overhead, I’ve watched several flocks of Canada Geese heading south.
“They’re just practicing,” my beloved assures me. He knows how much I detest the onslaught of winter, and he’s doing his best to keep my spirits up.
It’s not that I don’t appreciate the change in seasons. And it’s not that I don’t—academically at least—appreciate winter. I do. I know how necessary the snows are to our farmers, not to mention kids riding sleds and bigger kids riding skidoos.
I just wish it didn’t have to get so cold, icy and snowy.
Or at the very least, that the precipitation would fall so that it was not on the roads.
Yes, I know. I’m destined to be disappointed in that one.
Life has returned more or less to normal in the Ashbury household. Before we knew what was happening, it was Labor Day Weekend. We didn’t plan anything grand for this three day break. We never do. My beloved likes to make his annual pilgrimage to our community’s fall fair. There, he watches whatever horse shows he’s chosen to see from the schedule that is posted a few weeks in advance; treats himself to the usual carnival burger and fries; then visits the tents of the merchants—some selling clothing such as shirts with silly or naughty sayings on them (which he delights in wearing at conferences I attend), some sporting those heavy, furry blankets we can’t seem to find anywhere else. These are the same merchants he sees every year, and most of them get their goods from either wholesalers, or liquidators.
All I wanted was some peace and quiet, and a moratorium on driving.
The former, of course, for obvious reasons. The latter because I am the only driver in the house; I drive about 100 miles a day taking my husband to work and picking him up again, and we did just have that lovely vacation that saw me driving nearly 2500 miles.
Well let me just say I didn’t do much driving this past weekend. On Saturday, my grandson came over with his friend who was spending the weekend with him, begging to be allowed to stay and play on the computer. The good news was he brought his mom’s lap top and was able to use it upstairs, as we have a wireless router. The bad news is that my daughter came by after work to play on my beloved’s computer because, of course, her lap top was busy.
But that was fine. They were reasonably quiet and there were whole minutes at a time when I could almost convince myself that we were but two here. We fed them, of course. Um, that was after a visit to the grocery store which came after our second daughter called to say how much she would love it if we had a family dinner on Sunday.
Sunday saw us with a house full that lasted well into the evening. Hard to mind that, really, even if my grandson and his friend had come over in the early afternoon, this time to play on the laptop and my beloved’s computer downstairs while his mom was at work.
Monday was the day my beloved had chosen to go to the fair. He allowed me to more or less have my office to myself, not hovering impatiently in the background more than a few times before I gave him THE LOOK and he went elsewhere to wait for the appointed hour when I would drive him to the fair.
When that time came, I happily dropped him off, swung by Tim Horton’s for a coffee-to-go, then returned home, joyfully looking forward to at least three hours of I-have-my-house-to-myself-and-isn’t-life-grand time.
I sat down, took my computer out of sleep mode, and got back into “the zone” with my current w.i.p.
The back door opened, and my daughter and grandson (minus the friend) came in, carrying baskets and tubs. “Don’t mind us, we’re just here to do laundry.”
The weekend did have a happy ending, though. When I picked my beloved up a few hours later, he announced, “I bought you something at the fair.” That something? A set of sheets, beautiful deep burgundy, 1000 thread count.
I’ll let you know how they feel.
Love,
Morgan
Are you bold enough?
http://www.bookstrand.com/product-recklessabandon-14494-200.html
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Wednesday's Words for September 9, 2009
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Manic Readers gives By the Book, Five Stars
Hi, My saucy new novella, By the Book is now available.
By the Book
by Dee Dawning
Sarah is beautiful newlywed who loves her husband, but wants to spice up their boring sex life. So she borrows her best friend’s Lascivious Liaison's book; she is planning to re-create the scenes with her husband.
Danny is a handsome and loving husband who thinks his wife and his sex life is great until Sarah, one Friday night, drops the truthful bomb.
Sarah and Danny’s sex life takes on a whirlwind life of its own. Danny is willing to go along with it to help keep his marriage intact, but what starts out as a every man’s fantasy soon turns into a nightmare. Danny discovers that his wife and her best friend, Tish, are lovers. Now Danny has to decide if he wants them both or not.
By The Book
is a great read. It poses some interesting “what would you do” questions. I love the way the characters draw you into the story, and really make you think. By The Book is a definite mind blower that you have to read.
THANK YOU! PERFECTION hits Bookstrand's Best Seller Lists
Please indulge me (and join me) as I celebrate making my first list as a writer.
No, not NYT or USA Today (my dream of course, someday) - but still very thrilling to me.
Readers, In a single day, pushed PERFECTION up to #11 on the 14 day & #29 on the 30-day Best Seller Lists at Bookstrand. THANK YOU!
Very grateful to everyone for this achievement:
- The Siren team - Rachel, Alison, Jinger, Devin... and the unsung heroes of techno experts there that make the site so functional for readers and authors.
- My RWA chapters/families at North Texas Romance Writers Association(NTRWA), Dallas Area Romance Authors (DARA), Passionate Ink.
- To my author buddies, Melissa Schroeder and Nikki Duncan.
- To my friends on the Wicked Writer's Loop - (a loop of some of my favorite authors -I'm there as a reader) you all rock!
- To my Stephen.
- To my amazing mentor and great friend, Shayla Black.
"Success does not exist inside a vacuum nor is it a solitary endeavor."
(Click Here) to read Excerpts
Thanks again!
Kris Cook
www.KrisCook.net
blog: musingsofkriscook.blogspot.com
Monday, September 7, 2009
A Stellar Review for Jasmine's Urban Cowboys, Five Angels
 | | | | |
Jasmine Harper, once model now talented interior designer, is ready to celebrate being a free woman. With her divorce final, she invites a good friend Brenda out to help paint the town. Brenda has an idea, why doesn't Jasmine go bowling with her then when the game is over, the two can go out for some drinks. Jasmine agrees, never expecting to meet two handsome men at the bowling alley. Gabe Gregory and his Uncle Ted have a certain chemistry about him that makes Jaz feel tingly and warm all over. Gabe wants to introduce Jaz to his Uncle Ted who wants to show the lovely lady a good time. Brenda fakes an excuse to leave, suggesting Jaz not only take Ted up on any offer, but go for the gusto and have Gabe join them. After giving it considerable thought, why not, that is if the men are game. What man wasn't game to experiment with sexy Jaz? When Jaz heads home to prepare for Gabe and Ted's arrival, she still wonders can she go through with it. After all, what woman wouldn't desire four hands instead of two discovering her body? When the heat rises, will it be what Jaz expected or will it cause the party girl to crash never wishing to be around any man again?
Sensual Awakenings, Book One: Jasmine's Urban Cowboys is a dynamite read. Jaz's character is a blast. She has spark, is fun, down to earth, and the type to go after what she wants. The story sizzles with Jaz, Gabe and Ted. The secondary characters are robust and add just the right amount of seasoning to keep the story moving at a good pace. I enjoy Brenda and the friendship she and Jaz share. There are some pleasant twists and turns along the way that the reader doesn't know what Jaz has up her sleeve next. With some surprises and anticipations, Laura Ashton awakens the senses and breathes life into the pages. She makes Jaz real by placing her in a situation where the players must make decisions, while following their heart. I definitely want to read the second and the third in this astounding series.
Reviewed by: Linda L.
RELEASE DAY CONTEST $5 Starbucks GC for PERFECTION
Angelic Forecast ~ #53
FROM LAST WEEK...
Long ago, before we came to our home here, we lived on a small island near the main island of Atlantis. Our people came to you wanting these bodies to be created.
Vague memories tug at me, yet remain out of reach... mists which cannot be captured and held.
TO BE CONTINUED...
There is something I do know suddenly... a flash of understanding.
“You need me now for something. Don’t you?”
We do, the three horses speak in a chorus of sound inside my mind.
I hesitate, feeling as if whatever it is I’m not capable of doing it, or accomplishing it. Or giving it.
I force my words, “What is it you need from me?”
Please, come with us. Sarius nuzzles my hand with gentle persuasion.
Nothing inside me is capable of refusing him. I nod, then reach out to stroke his gallant neck. He feels unlike any horse I’ve touched before. It’s a glossy sensation, if that makes an ounce of sense. And he feels heavenly in a way only that divine part of us can comprehend.
If you would honor my back, I will carry you to our home. Sarius moves with such grace and gentleness, positioning himself before me, that I slip from the cloud and wrap my legs around him.
I wonder what I have done as he walks forward, a floating gait that makes me breathless. The other two horses flank us, their gazes angelic.
TO BE CONTINUED...
~~~~~~
The following week is nearly a carbon copy of the past week, yet with even more of an escalation in intensity.
It is good during this time to concentrate on your life, how it is playing out. Focus on your life as if it were a meditation or a prayer. Look upon it as a sacred movement forward. Notice things in a new light. For, that is what is being given to all of us. A new light. A new way seeing.
Indeed, remember a time when you noticed something new and different about an object, a flower, a place... something shining, a wondrous aspect you’d never noticed before.
That is the opportunity of this week no matter what else occurs.
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 and SILK AND STEEL ~
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/authors/savannakougar/wagaf.asp ~ http://www.bookstrand.com/ ~
HAVE A WONDERFUL END OF SUMMER
~ MAY ALL YOUR 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
[Winter Solstice 2012, Book 1]
Murder by Hair Spray in Gardenia, New Atlantis
[New Atlantis Trilogy, Book 1]
Her Insatiable Dark Heroes
[Chrontropolis, Book 1]
Stallion of Ash and Flame ~ coming in 2009
Sunday, September 6, 2009
NOW AVAILABLE: PERFECTION (Book Vid below)
—Shayla Black, National Bestselling Author
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Mudflat Fortune Cookie -
9/7 - 9/13 MONDAY AND TUESDAY ARE PRACTICAL DAYS. Visit Claire's predictions for the rest of the week at http://phoebematthews.com With a troll in the basement and a warrior in the bedroom, Claire's a little behind in her chores.
Mudflat Spice and Sorcery is available now with a beautiful Jinger Heaston book cover.
PERFECTION Releases Monday - 7th of Sept.
Eternally Three
Releases MONDAY - 7th of SEPT.
"A sexy, intriguing paranormal world you don't want to miss. It IS Perfection!" -- Shayla Black, National Bestselling Author of Tempt Me With Darkness
[Menage Amour 104: Erotic Paranormal Menage a Trois Romance, M/F/M, Public Exhibition]
EXCERPTS Available (HERE)
While searching for her missing brother, Micki Langley visits a nightclub with a notorious reputation as ménage a trios central, and comes face-to-face with two amazing men straight from her fantasies.
Ancient jinn Jared endures heavy guilt and wants nothing to do with the human girl. Tripling is necessary to keep immortals alive, but his hunger for Micki is far beyond normal.
Though warrior angel Bradley completes their threesome, he despises Jared for his tainted reputation. He vows the jinn won't hurt the gorgeous human and has no problem fighting him to prove it.
But when the threesome comes together, they share more than an exchange of energy, they share an unshakable bond that generates astounding power. Their enemies seek to destroy their perfect triad, which could unsettle the balance of power between angels and demons. Will the threesome be able to stand strong together - in trust and love - to defeat the relentless evil?
"Over lunch with an author friend, I shared an idea I'd been considering for a book. What if immortals' very existence depended on tripling with humans, similar to the laws of electricity (positive, negative, conduit)? She loved the idea. Many months later, that idea became a book with two amazing immortal heroes and one gorgeous heroine: Eternally Three: Perfection." ~ Kris ~
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Wednesday's Words for September 2, 2009
The cycle of life always seems so vivid to me at this time of year. Summer wanes and autumn waits in the wings. Kids return to school, parents return to their pre-vacation routines. The sun rises, and the sun sets. Over and over and over again.
We think that things have changed, that this world is somehow different than the world of our childhood; and perhaps in some ways it is. Yet in the essence of daily life, for the most of us, has more or less remained the same at least for a generation.
We say things change, but most of us don’t really know anything.
Some individuals, however, go through major upheavals in their lives, changes that are sudden and unforeseen and drastic and for which there is no time to prepare, and no choice as to whether or not to accept them.
Someone I’ve recently met and come to love is going through just such a major upheaval as you read these words. My first reaction when I learned of the situation was to cast an eye heavenward and ask God why it is He has to give so many trials to some people? Can’t He spread things around a bit? Couldn’t He give some of those who seem to skip through life relatively unscathed the chance to suffer and grow, too?
But of course, that’s not how it works. There are some among us who seem to have their lives turned from sweetness to misery on an almost regular basis. People who do everything right, live their lives and raise their children along good moral standards, people who give to charitable causes and do their best to uplift, rather than put down. People who never for one moment would consider harming another individual, ever. People who do their best, always.
These are often the very people who are hit with loss upon loss, setback after setback, and heartbreak after heartbreak.
I have often said that the purpose of life is not to show us a good time, but to test us; to set before us challenges that we must meet and overcome so that, as human beings, we grow, thus realizing our full potential. This is something I firmly believe as truth; but when I see someone like my friend, when I watch them boldly enduring the unendurable, then I realize that I believe something else, as well.
I believe that after we’ve had some challenges, faced some difficulties, and come out triumphant, we ought to be—well, if not rewarded, at least given a pass on more trauma.
I guess I believe in the existence of a basic kind of fairness in the universe. I believe that once you’ve paid your dues, then life should motor along fairly smoothly for you. There might be little bumps along the way, but not the kind of breath-stealing emotion-shattering bombardments of devastating tragedy—that should happen only rarely, by the way, and then never more than one catastrophe per human being, thank you very much!
But of course, that’s not how things really work, either. For reasons I do not in the least understand, good, generous people get crapped on by life time and again, and can’t ever seem to catch one damn break while selfish, ill-humored people get away with not only dancing their way through life, but without ever having to pay the piper even so much as an honorarium.
When I come face to face with the Lord that is going to be the first thing I ask Him about.
Love,
Morgan
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
The Lion, The Leopard and The Wolf
Monday, August 31, 2009
Your new Mudflat fortune cookie -
8/31 - 9/6 SHARP WEEK FOR DECISIONS, LESS SHARP FOR CHARISMA. SMARTS ON MONDAY TAKE AN EMOTIONAL TURN ON THURSDAY, WITH FRIDAY’S FULL MOON ADDING DRAMA. THE WEEKEND REQUIRES DETERMINATION AND PERSISTENCE.
THE MASTER'S PET
By Stormy Glenn
He's shocked when Zane explains he wants Jiri as his own personal sex pet. But Jiri can't deny he's intrigued by Zane's proposal.
EXCERPT
He wasn't even sure if it was day or night. There were no windows in the small room he inhabited. Just a door, a small army cot, a crate Jiri used as a nightstand, a lamp, a cardboard box that housed what clothes he had, and a sink with a mirror. It wasn't much but it was his.
Jiri stood up and walked to the small sink in the corner. He turned on the cold water and cupped some in his hands, bringing it up over his face. Turning off the water, he looked at himself in the mirror above the sink.
Lifting his hand Jiri gently touched the soft purple color around his left eye. Well, at least the swelling had gone down a little. His lower lip was another matter. It was cracked and swollen, dried blood on the small cut there.
He'd looked worse but that didn't mean it hurt any less. He was getting tired of being beat up. Of course, he was also getting used to it. Maybe that's what he had such a problem with. He was getting used to being knocked around by his stepfather and his buddies.
If that didn't say how sad his life was, Jiri didn't know what did. A person should never get used to being beat up. Jiri just didn't know what other choice he had. He had no where to go and no money to get there. Larry had taken all his money last night right before he and his buddies beat the crap out of Jiri.
He was stuck living in hell with Larry, his stepfather. He lived in what was once a storage closet in Larry's auto repair shop. He worked from the time the sun came up until it went down repairing cars and working the gas station out front.
Jiri didn't intend to be here forever. He'd run the first chance he got. He had even been saving up his tips until last night. He had to because Larry didn't pay him anything for the work he did. Oh, Larry provided just enough food and personal supplies to keep Jiri alive, but just that.
Shaking his head at the sad condition he was in, Jiri reached into his cardboard box and pulled out the cleanest shirt he had to wear and pulled it on. He buttoned up his pants and pulled his shoes on.
He was just reaching for the door handle of his small room when he heard another loud thud outside of his room. Turning the handle slowly, Jiri eased the door open and peered out. He really hoped Larry and his buddies weren't still around. He so didn't need to run into them again, at least, not until he healed up from the last little party they threw for him.
Peering out, Jiri couldn't see anything. The garage was unusually dark. Maybe it was nighttime? Jiri was a little confused by that. If it was night, Larry must have let him sleep in and Larry never let him sleep in.
Jiri looked around the door but he still couldn't see anything. A small shaft of light was coming from Larry's office, which meant Larry was still around. Just perfect. Jiri hoped he could avoid him but knew he probably couldn't.
Closing the door behind him, Jiri made his way towards the far door. To get to it he would have to pass by Larry's office but if he were real quiet, he might be able to make it without Larry hearing him.
As Jiri inched his way past the smoky glass window of Larry's office he saw shadows move out of the corner of his eye. Jiri froze, trying to even out the breath that was rushing rapidly in and out of his chest.
It was only when Jiri heard the voices coming from Larry's office that he realized the people in Larry's office were not Larry's buddies. He didn't recognize their voices but he knew that they were angry.
"You cheated me, you son of a bitch," someone yelled.
"I didn't mean to, honest, Zane. It was a mistake!" That was Larry. Jiri would recognize that simpering voice anywhere.
"You're damn right it was a mistake!" the other voice shouted. "Now, how do you plan to rectify it?"
"Rectify?" Larry asked. He sounded confused, the moron. Jiri seriously doubted Larry even knew what the word meant. He was big and beefy and dumb as the day was long. Rectify would be a word he wouldn't understand.
"Fix it, you dumb ass. You owe me and if you don't pay up, I'm going to let Slash here take it out of your hide."
Jiri quickly covered his mouth with his hand as a giggle threatened to escape. He would love to have a ringside seat to Larry being handed his ass. He'd even pay for seats, if he had any money.
"I don't have anything, I swear," Larry cried out.
Jiri could see enough shadow coming through the smoky glass to know that Larry was cowering back in his chair. A much larger man was bent over him. Several more shadows moved throughout the small office.
"I don't believe you, Larry," the large man replied. "I want what's mine!"
Jiri's eyes widened as the man picked Larry right up out of his chair by a hand at Larry's throat. He barely had time to scramble out of the way before Larry came sailing through the window to land on the floor at Jiri's feet, glass spraying everywhere.
Jiri stood there, stunned to see his stepfather, the man who had made his life a living hell, lying on the floor covered in blood and broken glass. His eyes slowly made the track back up the wall to the shattered window.
Shock held Jiri immobile as his eyes landed on the biggest man he had ever seen. He was leaning out the broken window staring down at the floor where Larry lay groaning.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Angelic Forecast ~ #52
FROM LAST WEEK...
The horse in the lead tucks his head. A muted red beam appears from the center of his forehead. Gradually the beam lengthens and looks to be directed at me. I stare as the reddish light streams, then transforms into starry jewels.
Within moments the beam enters into my heart.
Remember my love for you.
TO BE CONTINUED...
“Sarius,” I say the name. I don’t remember, yet I do. A sense of familiarity battles with my confusion.
Halting their fast pace, the three horses begin walking toward us. Their complete magnificence cannot be conveyed via words. However, now, Sarius, if that is his name, is a reddish hue on what can only be described as a coat that is a shimmer pewter coloring.
The other two horses coats are the same except one has a bluish sheen and the other one, who appears female, is golden hued.
Yes, I am Sarius. You do not remember now. It was you who created us, he communicates.
Created? I return and extend my palm. I don’t understand.
Sarius muzzles my hand, a tender welcome. I am euphoric. How I am able to contain this splendor, I’ll never know.
Long ago, before we came to our home here, we lived on a small island near the main island of Atlantis. Our people came to you wanting these bodies to be created.
Vague memories tug at me, yet remain out of reach... mists which cannot be captured and held.
TO BE CONTINUED...
~~~~~~
The following week will long be remembered.
What remains important in this life are those we love and those who love us. In whatever ways you can express that love and receive that love, do it. For, it will be what makes the true difference in your life and the lives of us all. The future has been set into motion in a way that will challenge us all.
These challenges are best met with those we know and care for most deeply in our hearts. The more love thrives despite our challenges, the more we will all know victory over any and all the forthcoming challenges.
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 and SILK AND STEEL ~
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/authors/savannakougar/wagaf.asp ~ http://www.bookstrand.com/ ~
HAVE A WONDERFUL END OF SUMMER
~ MAY ALL YOUR 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
[Winter Solstice 2012, Book 1]
Murder by Hair Spray in Gardenia, New Atlantis
[New Atlantis Trilogy, Book 1]
Her Insatiable Dark Heroes
[Chrontropolis, Book 1]
Stallion of Ash and Flame ~ coming in 2009
~~~~~~
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Lust Or Love now available
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Wednesday's Words for August 26, 2009
After nearly two weeks away, I’m glad to be back home. As much as I love seeing new places, I’m most comfortable in my own home, surrounded by my own stuff.
That saying, “be it ever so humble, there’s no place like home” is golden as far as I’m concerned.
And yet, often when I come back from vacation, I’m hit by a sense of unreality. It’s almost as if I have to bond with my house and possessions all over again. It takes me a few days to get totally back into my comfort zone, to really feel at home.
The house was still standing, if somewhat fuller of people and things upon our return than it had been when we left. My daughter had brought some of her furniture here, in anticipation of a move to a new apartment that was to take place September first. Since that apartment stood vacant, she was able to get into it two weeks sooner, a circumstance that ultimately proved happy for us all.
Well, except perhaps for her kitten.
Her new address is less than three blocks away, and kitten has followed her here twice now.
One of the first things I did when I’d finished unpacking was to open the package containing our new 800 thread-count sheets. I must confess they felt smooth and thick on my fingers! I always wash new sheets before using them, but I decided to wash these twice before putting them on the bed—which I did this past weekend.
Oh my, but they are wonderful! My beloved has declared that this is the way bed is supposed to feel, and has been looking up the addresses of bed and bath shops in his spare time ever since. He has decided that we’ll treat ourselves to those 1000s – if they can be found—and call it an early Christmas present to ourselves.
In the meantime he’s gone back to work, doing what he loves to do, and among the kind of people he truly does understand best—men. I know he enjoyed spending day after day with me, as I did him. Aside from being husband and wife, we really do like each other and look forward to time spent together.
And we like returning to our separate occupations, too.
I’m back writing, and happy to be so. I think I needed that solid break. Yes, I had taken my lap top with me, and had been able to compose and post my essays “on the road”, as it were. But I didn’t do any novel writing while I was on vacation.
Back in my own home, sitting at my very cluttered desk (ah but I know where everything is), and residing in close proximity to the inspiration elves, I’m pleased to report that my fingers have been working with a vengeance. I was able to finish the novel I’d been working on before our trip.
Of course, now I’ve begun another. In order to be prolific, one has to write.
Occasionally I get days where I’m able to write more than 6ooo words, but that doesn’t happen very often. Usually, I manage around 2 to 3K, but do that for many days in a row before needing to be distracted.
In the past, family and friends would note my devotion to my craft and say to me, “Aren’t you going to give it a rest for a while?” My standard answer has always been, “And do what?”
This is what I am, a writer. I’m happiest when I’m writing, when the words come together in a way that sometimes hints at poetry, or sometimes just good rhetoric. When the image I’m striving for dons a bit of cover and waits in anticipation to be discovered by the reader.
I’m most content when I’ve managed to escape into the world of my characters, letting their stories flow through me, to you.
Love,
Morgan
Feed the flames of your passion…with a novel by Morgan Ashbury
http://www.bookstrand.com/authors/morganashbury
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
My Book Was Released Today!
This is my first with BookStrand, and I am excited! Please celebrate with me. Here are some details:
The Show Must Go On
By: Kim Sheard
Categories: Contemporary Mainstream ROMANCE
Word Count: 41,588Heat Level: SWEET
Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/product-theshowmustgoon-15314-330.html
Blurb:
Allyson Parker, the stereotypical shy librarian, finds an outlet for her wilder side by performing in community theater. There she can become someone else, someone infinitely more interesting and confident. Partnered in her first romantic lead with newcomer Matt Dauer, she begins to hope that life can imitate art. But can she overcome her bashfulness and self-doubts, cultivated by years of frequent locations, in order to keep his interest?
Matt moved to Washington, D.C. from Chicago to escape a cheating, diva ex-girlfriend, but he's now also far from his parents and two brothers. His greatest desire is to create a new family as close-knit as the one he left behind. He must return to that past, though, when his ex is involved in a serious car accident and he is called on to help. Will his benevolent act mean the end of his blossoming relationship with Allyson?
"Like my heroine, I moved many times as a child, and sometimes had difficulty fitting in with my peers. Also like Allyson, I enjoyed pretending to be someone else in community theater productions, and managed to make off-stage friends through the activity. Since it features so many of my own experiences, this is truly a book of my heart." ~ Kim ~
Excerpt:
The last scene of Act One involved only Allyson and Matt's characters. They had blocked the scene late one evening just before breaking for the night, but hadn't had the chance to rehearse it beyond that. The script called for Victoria and James to share their first tentative kiss just before the blackout and intermission. Peter had explained that it would be one of those moments often seen in movies, where the two characters stare at each other for an uncomfortably long period and then draw in agonizingly slowly for the kiss. Allyson and Matt had heard the description, but they hadn't acted it yet.
Allyson was nervous about it.
She tried hard to just think about the words she said and what they meant. Plus, as much as possible with a script in her hand, she maintained the eye contact Ginny and Clark demonstrated.
"What is it that you want?" was Matt's final line, then she and Matt stood, three feet apart, gazing into each other's eyes.
Most of Allyson's brain forgot that she was playing a part as she looked at him. His blue eyes fixed on hers, and she couldn't have torn her gaze away if she'd tried.
He took a step toward her, and her heart fluttered with joy.
She took her own step, bringing her close enough now to see the yellow flecks in his irises. They circled his pupils like fire, and when he took another step, she fancied she could feel the flame.
One more step and she forgot to breathe, thinking only of his eyes and of his scent and of the hand that reached out to touch her own.
As their fingers laced, he bent his head down. Her neck stretched back, allowing her to maintain the gaze that linked them tighter than their hands until she felt his breath on her face. Then she focused on his plump, pink lips, which inched closer and closer to her own.
The instant before their lips touched, she closed her eyes, prepared to savor it. And savor she did. At first, their meeting was feather light and sweet, and she relished the soft teasing. But it quickly grew more intense, their mouths pressing hard into each other as if to become one. Warmth radiated from their joining down her back to pour into her arms and legs.
She'd never experienced such delight and such yearning need at the same time. She relaxed into it, hearing a thud that momentarily puzzled her until she realized she'd dropped her script onto the stage. That and the catcalls and whistles from their cast mates in the seats brought her back to her senses. With her cheeks burning, she pulled away from Matt. His face looked red, too, and she thought she saw reluctance in his eyes. She blinked, trying to get her bearings.
"Curtain," Peter called, joining the two of them on the stage. "End Act One. Take a break, everybody." The cast in the audience scattered.
Peter cleared his throat and told his leads in a low voice, "Um, guys, that was not tentative. It looked great, but save it for Act Two, okay?" He cleared his throat again. "And those private times." His eyes sparkled as he ambled away.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Angelic Forecast ~ #51
FROM LAST WEEK...
“Horses?” I ask, squinting toward what appears to be three horses galloping through a haze. It’s hard to tell, though, since they almost look like shadows.
“An equine race with the same sentience as the human species. They arrive to welcome you.”
TO BE CONTINUED...
The three horses seemed to gallop on air as much as they did on the blue-green turf. Their hooves struck, yet floated. Strange to my eye, their color shifted constantly from a pale aurora-shimmering gray to a shadow black to a white glinting translucence.
“Sentient... how do I speak with them? Mind-to-mind as we do sometimes?”
“Simply speak to them.”
“Oh, thanks a lot, O Great Cherub. Another zen heavenly bit of advice.” My nerves zing so my tongue moves out the words willy nilly. I clutch at the cloud as I lean forward, another odd sensation.
Closer and closer, they run toward us, their pace swift, but not racing. I watch their splendid coats sparkle with light. They are unlike any horses I’ve ever seen in their confirmation. Their bodies are elegantly elongated, their chests deep and substantial.
Eagerness overcomes me and a tiny feeling of reticence since this is beyond everything I’ve experienced... so far.
The horse in the lead tucks his head. A muted red beam appears from the center of his forehead. Gradually the beam lengthens and looks to be directed at me. I stare as the reddish light streams, then transforms into starry jewels.
Within moments the beam enters into my heart.
Remember my love for you.
TO BE CONTINUED...
~~~~~~
The next week will be interesting to say the very least. It is likely that there will be a memorable event. On a personal level this is a week to simply take as it comes, then deal to the best of your ability. Often, the actions to take will become obvious shortly after the event has taken place.
On the world stage there are events shaping up which have been created to act like a three-ring circus. You can’t watch all the rings at the same time. It may be wise to notice what takes place, yet remain distant and use your logical discernment as well as your spiritual discernment.
Take care this week. An event may catch you too unaware.
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 and SILK AND STEEL ~
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/authors/savannakougar/wagaf.asp ~ http://www.bookstrand.com ~
HAVE A WONDERFUL SUMMER
~ MAY ALL YOUR 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
[Winter Solstice 2012, Book 1]
Murder by Hair Spray in Gardenia, New Atlantis
[New Atlantis Trilogy, Book 1]
Her Insatiable Dark Heroes
[Chrontropolis, Book 1]
Stallion of Ash and Flame ~ coming in 2009
~~~~~~
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Mudflat Horoscope Fortune Cookie -
8/24 - 30 NOT FEELING TOO SURE OF YOURSELF THIS WEEK? YOU MAY BE THINKING MORE CLEARLY THAN YOU THINK! LOOK AT BOTH SIDES OF MONDAY’S PROBLEM, WORK AT STAYING CALM. WEDNESDAY FRIENDS HELP. WEEKEND OFFERS STABILITY.
For a new book about the Mudflat fortuneteller, Book 4 is OUT! Mudflat Spice and Sorcery is available now with a beautiful Jinger Heaston book cover.
For more information, visit Phoebe Matthews
Turning Thirty-Twelve gets 4.5 stars!
Jacqueline Delgado taught high school science and was the mother of two college boys. Patrick, 21, was a seasoned student and Nate, 18, was a freshman. They both attended Indiana University. Jackie was determined to not grow old. Therefore, her 42nd birthday was her Thirty-Twelfth. It was a running joke between Jackie and her school teacher friends. Jackie’s empty nest syndrome was hitting her so hard that her friends were determined to fix her up with a blind date. Finally she relented. Her second thoughts really started when she met him.
Mark Brennan was the father of one of Jackie’s students, Carly. They were new to the area and the oldest daughter, Kathy, was a freshman at Indiana University. Mark’s wife, Elaine, had died of breast cancer. He tended to lose himself in his work as a detective with the police force. He was extremely interested in Jackie from the first introduction.
Ms. James’s personalities were strong and so typically shown that it was impossible not to find the story intriguing. The two main individuals were attracted to each other. However, “life” just kept interfering. The storyline was poignant and I shed tears. It was true-to-life and easy to delve into. The ending was a total surprise to me. I had no idea it would take the twists and turns it did. I was totally engrossed in the book.
I recommend that, especially if you love sentimentality, you read this book. You will be glad to have read it. It’s the type book that stays with you even after the last page.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
'Silk and Steel' out today
My erotic historical romance SILK AND STEEL is released today by Siren-Bookstrand. SILK AND STEEL makes my third novel set in the exotic, sensual world of ancient Rome, along with my erotic historical romance, ESCAPE TO LOVE and my sensual historical romance, FLAVIA'S SECRET, also published by Siren-Bookstrand.
To see all three of these exciting novels, please visit my SirenBookstrand author page:
http://www.bookstrand.com/authors/lindsaytownsend/
Best wishes, Lindsay
http://lindsaysbookchat.blogspot.com
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Wednesday's Words for August 19, 2009
The Margaret Todd is a151 foot, four-masted schooner, the main attraction for a company called Down East Windjammer Cruises. Operating out of Bar Harbor, it offers 2 hour excursions, tours of Frenchman’s Bay. Designed by her owner Captain Steven Pagels, the vessel was built in St. Augustine Florida and was launched in 1998.
I first read about the Windjammer cruise company in the Auto Club’s (AAA) guidebook. As soon as I saw the words “four-masted schooner”, I knew this was an experience Mr. Ashbury would particularly enjoy.
My beloved in enamored of all things nautical, especially sailing vessels of a certain vintage—or replicas thereof. Although the Margret Todd wasn’t built in a previous century her design harkens back to an earlier time when men roamed the seas, and women ascended to the top of their New England sea-side homes, paced the “widow’s walk” and kept watch for their man’s return.
We took the afternoon sail on the Tuesday we were in Bar Harbor. Although originally forecast to be raining, the day had turned sunny and warm. The schooner left the dock, and before long the captain gave the order to hoist the sails. Passengers were given the opportunity to assist in this. My beloved declined.
The snap of the wind on canvas is a particularly stirring sound. It speaks to us instinctively of good fortune and fast seas.
How do you explain that sense you sometimes get when, doing something for the first time, a feeling of familiarity descends upon you? I don’t have an answer for that, myself. My beloved has wondered aloud if he lived a previous life as a pirate. We’ve been married long enough that we each tend to allow the other the freedom of belief.
I know I thoroughly enjoyed the sensation of sailing across the bay without the sound of an engine surrounding me. I tried to clutch every moment with both hands, but of course the outing was over far too soon.
At the resort where we stayed in that Maine locale we had a ground-floor efficiency, one unit of about 30 in one building of 8. Outside the door was a brick patio, with lawn chairs for our relaxation, providing a view of the pool and the sea. The part of Frenchman’s Bay that temporarily was our home had no sand beach. Pebbles and rocks formed the shore. Unlike Virginia Beach, no sound of surf filled the air. However, if I listened closely, I could hear the gentle lap of water on rocks.
The air carried the sea, not just the scent of it, but in birdsong, in the plaintive cry of gulls. We stayed three nights in this down-east community. I did have some Maine lobster – from the shell, and one night as an appetizer in “lobster stew”. Very yummy. I also tried mussels for the first time, as the restaurant where we dined Monday night – The Log Cabin – featured a salad bar with steamed mussels. They were delicious.
Better to me than the food, or the sail, or the sights and sounds of a tourist town (one of my favorite things) was the tranquility of being on the bay, by the sea. I experience an identical sense of peace if the water I’m near is a lake. My zodiac sign is Cancer. Water is the element of this sign, and I’ve always been drawn to it.
The two weeks of this vacation have sped by. Fortunately for me, the lure of home is as compelling as the call to exploration, and heading home a prospect as attractive an endeavor as setting out, fourteen days ago, had been.
Love,
Morgan
Dare to try a little Reckless Abandon
http://www.bookstrand.com/product-recklessabandon-14494-200.html
Monday, August 17, 2009
The Natives Have Returned to the Classroom
The Teenagers Return to School
Every year, I feel tremendous relief when school is finally out for the summer. It’s nice to have a few weeks to relax without the push and shove of one schedule overlapping with another.
As much as we anticipate the arrival of summer, we also look forward to fall. After a few months of playing hard, this year wasn’t an exception. It was time to send those teenagers packing!
School started back last Monday. The first day was a short one and the days following consisted of writing out one check after another for school fees, supplies, and dues. Today marks the first day of the ‘official’ school year. We’re finally on a schedule.
Now, it’s time to complete a few writing projects and get back to work. I’m forced to shelf promotions and blogging during the summer since writing time is so limited. By the time school is in session again, I’m typically at a loss. It’s great to surf the net and see what I’ve missed but after being MIA for a few months, it’s hard to catch up and see everything.
One thing I recently noticed is more public exposure, awareness, and acceptance of e-books. More and more folks are comparing and then buying e-readers. Teenagers are buying e-books, something I’m thrilled to discover. Our market is wide open and it’s broader than it was one year ago.
When I first started my writing career, I didn’t know very much about e-books. Later, after discovery, I had to explain to others what e-books were and where to find them. I’ve introduced a lot of friends and family members to e-books only to have them thank me later. Many appreciate the convenience and still others like the price point. I buy more e-books now than ever before and even buy them for research purposes as opposed to trotting out to the library or rushing for the brick and mortar bookstores.
E-books have come a long way. Many e-books trump print books on various best seller lists. New authors have the opportunity to earn more money than they have in years past because of the numerous online sales outlets they have at their disposal.
The day has finally arrived when it’s more lucrative for some e-authors than traditional print authors. Best of all, there’s a tremendous buzz about these fabulous books and the talented writers behind them.
I’m surfing the internet and truly delighted at what I’ve discovered. Many of the books topping the best seller lists at third party outlets are written by Siren-BookStrand authors and still others by those I have the great honor to call out as true friends.
Wow, this is one phenomenal business. Best of all, at the heart of this industry is my truest passion…the written word.
I’m surfing and chatting at Just Another Paranormal Monday. Come join us.
Hugs,
Destiny
www.destinyblaine.com
http://www.destinyblaine.blogspot.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ParanormalMonday/
Angelic Forecast ~ #50
FROM LAST WEEK...
“The love of community and living a life of true freedom is the Call of these times on Earth. It takes courage, the courage of the human heart and the committed human will to overcome what looms ahead.”
Suddenly, the Heavenly One beams a jovial smile. The Crop Circle Gate is opening.
TO BE CONTINUED...
“Paradise,” I whisper.
Before me is a lush verdant landscape. Not quite tropical, yet grander than the bluegrass pastures of Kentucky. Two Mammoths graze, their scimitar-curved tusks amazing to behold. Not that far away Zebras dine on the rich grass, their tails twitching contentedly. From what I can determine the zebras are larger than any on the African continent. Beyond them is a herd of caramel and cream-colored antelope. The sky is barely blue, yet vibrant in appearance.
“Sky, how is there a sky?” I ask as we drift slowly inward.
“There’s an artificial sun created by a super race long since gone from Earth. The dynamic energy of this sun creates atmosphere and a type of sky.”
“How can you create an artificial sun?” Two pterodactyls circle in the distance, their hides glistening with a red sheen.
“The laws of physics are easy to manipulate once the power of the Mind is sufficiently developed and understood.”
“Horses?” I ask, squinting toward what appears to be three horses galloping through a haze. It’s hard to tell, though, since they almost look like shadows.
“An equine race with the same sentience as the human species. They arrive to welcome you.”
TO BE CONTINUED...
~~~~~~
This week is about highs and lows within the context of the Unraveling. Ride them out with as much equanimity as you can. That is, rejoice in the highs, but know it is temporary at best. The same is true with the lows. Feel the experience, yet know it is temporary.
Currently, certain forces have not yet solidified. Thus, the week has a murky quality to it. Still, there will be opportunities to move your dream forward. Do it. By doing so you will benefit others as much as yourself.
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 and BRONZE LIGHTNING ~
http://sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com/2008/08/author-discovery-savanna-kougars-when.html ~
http://www.bookstrand.com/authors/savannakougar/wagaf.asp ~ http://www.bookstrand.com/ ~
HAVE A WONDERFUL SUMMER
~ MAY ALL YOUR 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
[Winter Solstice 2012, Book 1]
Murder by Hair Spray in Gardenia, New Atlantis
[New Atlantis Trilogy, Book 1]
Her Insatiable Dark Heroes
[Chrontropolis, Book 1]
Stallion of Ash and Flame ~ coming in 2009
~~~~~~
Sunday, August 16, 2009
5 CUP Review for Just A Taste Of Me
JUST A TASTE OF ME
by Stormy Glenn
Reece knows Keeley is his mate the moment he meets him. But Keeley is not only human, he's a man. Alpha of his own pack for just three months, having a man for a mate is a headache Reece doesn't need. But not claiming his mate is not an option.
However, Keeley is unlike any man he has ever met, from the top of his gorgeous honey blond hair to the bottom of his fire engine red painted toenails, Keeley is hot! Reece becomes even more enchanted with his new mate when Keeley loses his temper with Reece and hits him with a cookie sheet.
Just when Reece accepts being mated to a man and starts to care for him, Keeley is attacked and nearly dies. Reece discovers a plot that involves more than just the death of his mate, but his entire pack. Can Reece save Keeley and his pack, or will he have to choose between them?
Review
Keeley is a human with a little something extra; he has visions of things before they happen. He has been recently rescued from a horrible man called The Teacher who used Keeley's abilities for his own profit.
Reece is the alpha of a small pack of thirty werewolves, and as far as he is concerned he is straight as an arrow. Well, until he gets his first whiff of Keeley that is!
When Keeley has a strong feeling that he must enter a bar, he goes with it and figures he will just use the restroom and then be on his way. Unfortunately, a bloodsucker also follows him into the restroom with the intention of getting a blood donation from Keeley whether Keeley wants to donate or not. Fortunately for him, Reece cannot keep his eyes off Keeley nor his hormones under control, smelling trouble, he follows Keeley and the bloodsucker into the restroom. Reece saves Keeley but in doing so he has made Keeley his mate, a fact that Keeley is less than enthusiastic about, particularly when he discovers that Reece is straight. While they try to sort out their feelings for one another and their mutual wild attraction, there are those within Reece's pack with their own agenda, and Keeley's very existence is cramping their style. Will Reece be able to protect Keeley from those who mean him harm, as well as convince Keeley he wants to keep him forever?
Wow, talk about your fantastic sequel, this series just keeps getting better and better! Ms. Glenn really threw me for a loop with the whole straight guy falls for gay guy thing, but like the great writer she is, she had the perfect reason that made it all totally plausible. The world building in this series and this sequel is par excellence, and I am really looking forward to more stories. I really enjoyed how Ms. Glenn wrote the character of Reece, and his confusion over his instant attraction and nearly instant love for the admittedly adorable Keeley. I also liked the added dimension of the bloodsuckers aka vampires, they definitely added some real zest to the story. The lovemaking is positively scorching, and gives added depth to the emotions expressed between Reece and Keeley. I for one am anxiously awaiting the next book in this series, and all I can say is "Keep them coming Ms. Glenn, keep them coming!"
ReginaReviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Review: http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/justatasteofme.html
Buy Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/product-justatasteofme-14444-252.html
