Monday, January 31, 2011

"My Book, My Journey"

Monday, January 31st, 2011

I'm guest blogging with Jadette Paige about my new series

Blaecleah Brothers

Read how the idea of the Blaecleah Brothers was created and the story was developed. I will also discuss how I go about creating my books. Leave a comment and have a chance to win a free eBook copy of Cowboy Keeper (Blaecleah Brother 2).

http://www.jadettepaige.blogspot.com/

Sunday, January 30, 2011

Angelic Forecast ~ #126


“This is a place of spiritual resonance. Where the higher energy you are meets the energy you are now.”

“That makes perfect sense,” I say, and feel as though I am humming the words.

Moments later, the force continues as a strange invigorating whirl within me, and I say, “Talk about real pyramid power.”

“As the power is meant to be, yes,” the Heavenly One intones. “What do you see?”

I am staring open-mouthed at the scene before me. “Spaceships. Lots and lots of spaceships... what the heck?” I move closer. “Why does that flying craft look like a fifties thunderbird car?”

Behind me I hear the Cherub chuckle. “Why limit a good design to the air?”

I think about that. “Are you saying the flying craft came before the car?”

“In the timeline of earth and the solar system, yes.”

TO BE CONTINUED...
~~~~~~

ANGELIC FORECAST ~

For the following week, and for the next month, the dominant story on the world stage will bounce back and forth. Or, follow the bouncing ball. Economic woes explode around the globe, leading to large-scale unrest and an increase in riots. Even where the blazes are extinguished by a change in leadership, other fires will erupt and become a firestorm.

It is likely to be revealed in a major way that the flames of unrest are not only because people are hungry and brutally oppressed, but the riots are being fueled by the dark-force elite in their bid for ultimate control. Blowback against these enemies of humanity continues.

Also, look for the UNEXPECTED. ‘Out of the blue’ will be king this week as the kingmakers attempt to maintain their control in our beloved country. As unpopular policies are introduced, there is likely to be a backlash of major proportions. This backlash may not be apparent, at first, but is likely to become an avalanche in due time.

Hold onto your hats this week. Once again, the winds of change are fast and furious. Prepare not only for the storms of life that now arrive, but for more nasty winter storms. And, for those of you who use natural supplements, stock up on the ones you use regularly. This is especially true for any supplements used to combat flu-like illnesses.

Career choices are likely to be an important theme this week for some. This is the time, not only to look at your heart, but to take stock of the fast-changing future. What choice will serve you best in being self-sufficient?

Earthquake energies are rising to the surface now. The land changes are upon us. Keep vigilant, and as always, stay prepared.

In the trend department, many are learning how to construct their own houses using alternative methods. If you have a knack for these skills, now is the time to learn more and put them to use.

Yes, there is a bright spot this week. The Chinese New Year of the Rabbit begins on February 3rd, the New Moon. New opportunities for a brighter future are yours. Be on the lookout and hop toward them.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Warning!!! The global elite [New World Order] does not want *you* to read this book. See ~ Powerful Dreams at my Kougar Kisses blog.

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?

~~~ 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, HOLIDAY IN BOLOGNA and CHASING RACHEL ~

WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS ~ adventure fantasy erotic romance ~ available from Siren-BookStrand ~
~~~

~ HAVE A MAGICKAL NEW YEAR OF THE RABBIT ~

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 ~ In Print

Branded by the Texans ~ IN PRINT ~ A Siren-BookStrand Bestseller!
[Three Star Republic]

Cassandra Pierce visits The Steam Room

The Steam Room welcomes Cassandra Pierce!

TSR: Tell us about Loving Two Vampires.

Cassandra: For my second entry in the Darkisle series, I wanted to do something different—to challenge myself. I’d never done a ménage before, and I wanted to kick up the heat level a notch.The whole story came to me in a flash one day—plot, characters, everything. The story practically told itself! My task was simply to write it down!

TSR: What draws you to vampires?

Cassandra: They’re sexy, scary, and are essentially a whole different species. Yet their human core—shaped by historical forces modern people can never fully appreciate—remains, ready to be tapped by the right circumstances and people. They offer a bottomless treasure chest from which to draw stories.

TSR: What are some traits that your hero/heroine must have?

Cassandra: I like strong, feisty, sharp-tongued people of both genders. Yet their cores must be informed by compassion and they must have the capacity to love wildly, madly, and forever. In the case of vampires, that’s a long time.

TSR: What inspired Darkisle?

Cassandra: I wanted to do a Gothic romance with all the trappings—creepy house, gloomy and claustrophobic small town, people with lurid secrets and hidden, smoldering passions. Vampires seemed a natural extension of that atmosphere.

Being a huge, lifelong Dark Shadows fan didn’t hurt either.

TSR: Tell us about Love in the Shadows.

Cassandra: It’s a Yahoo loop I started for readers and authors to discuss and promo Gothic and paranormal books(e and print). I’m hoping to start some writing workshops in the loop this summer. I hope readers will join us!

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/loveintheshadows/

TSR: When you’re not writing, what’s your favorite thing to do?

Cassandra: I’m into sculpting, doll-making, and collecting vintage action figures, especially Megos. I’m also partial to tinkering with computers, both PCs and Macs, though I don’t talk about that much for fear of being asked to fix everyone’s computer. Finally, I do a lot of animal charity work and rescue, rehabilitating and re-homing abused and abandoned cats and dogs. I’ve personally saved over 100 furbabies so far.

TSR: What’s next for you?

Cassandra: I’m working on a couple of science fiction e-romances right now. Captain Gareth’s Mates, the first one in the Terran Border Patrol series I’m planning, has just been released from Siren in December 2010. I’m also tinkering with a steampunk idea suggested to me by my fellow Siren author, Rachel Clark.

And, of course, I am planning Darkisle III!

Breakfast by the Sea by Destiny Blaine is Available Now in Print

Erotic Cowboy Ménage a Trois/Quatre Romance, M/F/M/M/M/M, M/F/M, May-December, Suspense

Siren Publishing

Nominated for Best Romantic Thriller and Best Contemporary at LRC’s Best of Awards 2010!

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Five tough operatives fall for a woman they’re supposed to eliminate. When the team discovers Paige Lambert is in fact the Queen of Hearts, they can’t ignore their handler’s orders. Will the Queen of Hearts die for her past crimes or will she end up under the protective custody of the men hired to kill her?

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Now available in print, Breakfast by the Sea excerpts are posted here: http://destinyblaine.blogspot.com/.

http://tinyurl.com/4mfrghb


New! Reviews for Breakfast by the Sea



5 TEA CUPS: "Breakfast by the Sea is a well written, what am I saying, this book is one of the best that I have read lately..... Sex and power go hand and hand in this story and Destiny made sure that there was plenty. Destiny kept you on the edge of your seat wanting to know what and who was going to be the man or men that kept Paige in place. I loved how each man took on their responsibility and involved each one in some aspect of her life. I recommend this book..." -- Wendy, Happily Ever After Reviews

http://hea-reviews.blogspot.com/2010/12/review-breakfast-by-sea-by-destiny.html



You Gotta Read Reviews Gave Breakfast by the Sea a YOU GOTTA READ!


Val said, "I loved the plot line in Breakfast by the Sea. I always love the mercenary kind of books that are filled with intrigue and a lot of action. Suspense is definitely my cup of tea and when you add the erotic element to it, it's a must have in my book. The one thing I really enjoyed seeing in this book is it's not necessarily the happily ever after you would think. I'm not giving away any of the story but trust me when I say, it will surprise you in the end.

The one thing I can say that is always a given with any Destiny Blaine book, is that she writes about characters that are less than perfect. And my promise to you is you will love every minute of it. Just when you think a character could in no way, shape or form redeem themselves, Ms. Blaine gives you a sneak into the reasons why they act the way they do. You end up falling in love with the character and the bonds he/she form along the way. The characters in this book are solid and realistic. The sexual scenes are very descriptive and sizzling hot. This is definitely one book that you don't want to miss. For fans of suspense and the erotic, this is a must read...."

http://yougottareadreviews.blogspot.com/2010/11/review-breakfast-by-sea-by-destiny.html

Be sure to check out the latest review posted at Whipped Cream Erotic Reviews for Breakfast by the Sea where the reviewer said: "Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Breakfast By The Sea. This novel is packed with plenty of action, tension, personal growth and some steamy hotness that had me reaching for a fan...."

http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/2011/01/breakfast-by-sea-by-destiny-blaine.html?zx=5a0cba924dba1d65

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Wednesday's Words for January 26, 2011


Over the past weekend, we had some of the coldest days of the year so far here in my neck of the woods. And of course, you had to know that this would be the weekend our furnace decided to act up.

I got the blame for it, too. I have this habit of turning the thermostat down at night before we go to bed. We have this amazing duvet which keeps us so warm, I swear some nights I kick the thing off. So why would I maintain the heat at a higher temperature if I’m going to spend the night under those marvellously warm feathers?
Unfortunately, the next morning – Saturday – when I awoke and turned the thermostat up from 50 degrees to 75, the furnace ignored me.

My beloved, who had the day off, noticed the failure of the furnace to heat the house. How did I know he had noticed? He pulled a blanket over himself to keep warm as he stretched out in his recliner and read.

Our initial thought was that the thermostat itself had died. We did have a new one, given to us when this furnace was installed 7 years ago, and which we had set aside.
On Sunday, my husband set about installing the new thermostat, an operation that didn’t take very long at all.

Alas, the problem was not solved, as the furnace still didn’t respond to our request for more heat.

I was all for calling the company that services our furnace right then and there. I knew the house call wouldn’t cost anything as I pay a fee each month hedging against just this eventuality.

My beloved insisted that since it wasn’t that cold (after all, we couldn’t see our breath in the air), that I wait until he set the basement to rights. I didn’t know, of course, that the basement was untidy. I’ve not been down there in quite some time. But Mr. Ashbury was adamant. It wouldn’t do to have a service man see our unkempt basement. Period.

Friends, that kind of thinking right there is why I am doomed to never, ever have even a one day a week housekeeper. Our home is in need of some cosmetic work, left over from more than five years ago when my husband and our late son were working on the renovations. The upstairs isn’t completely finished; the living room ceiling should be replaced, as should my kitchen floor. Hire a housekeeper? Oh, no, my house isn’t fancy enough for that.

My beloved finally set the basement to rights Monday night. By this time, I believed that, although it still wasn’t cold enough to see my breath in the air, my nose would be forever frozen. I was getting used to wearing several layers of clothes indoors and to holding my cup of hot coffee as opposed to drinking it, in order to warm my hands in between bouts of typing. Ah yes, I have been colder. But a part of me figured that by the time I had reached this age, those days would be behind me.

The furnace man came out—for the first time—at 8:30 Tuesday morning. I explained what the furnace was doing. He looked at the thermostat (likely to make sure we had indeed turned it up), then went down into the tidy basement to the furnace. Twenty minutes later he was emerged, explaining that an obscure air intake screen (inside a piece of black pipe) had been clogged. He affirmed the furnace was working normally, and left. I turned the thermostat up to 75.

An hour later when the house still had not warmed, I called the furnace people again. The second man came out at twelve-thirty, and promptly found the real culprit: a full condensation chamber. This time, when he left, the furnace really was fixed.

I celebrated the repair of the furnace by promptly going for a nap—a perfectly natural reaction to the end of being cold.

If I get to come back for another crack at this life thing, I think I’ll opt for something warm and furry that hibernates in the winter.

And I’m going to vote that Mr. Ashbury comes back as a woman married to a man just like him.

Love,
Morgan
http://www.bookstrand.com/morgan-ashbury
http://wednesdayswordsbymorgan.blogspot.com/

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Angelic Forecast ~ #125


I stare in wonder at what looks like the inside of King Tut’s tomb... well, sort of... that is, if it had still been intact. Gold, and designs in bright bold colors... turquoise, a dark shade of red, a deep yellow-gold, lapis lazuli blue, malachite green, royal purple...

Incense rises like the phoenix, smoky blue curls that are nearly addictive in their fragrance... no, I cannot describe it... except, it’s exotic, honeyed and erotic to the mind...

Lured, I slip from the cloud to stand on the pearlescent floor tinted by amber. Singing, as if my soul speaks, rises within me. As it becomes louder I wonder if it is inside me or outside of me.

“Both.” The Cherub’s voice is different. Amplified, richer...

“How?”

Lured beyond bearing, I move toward a scene on one portion of the wall. Moon Dream pads beside me, and I hear her singing. Her soul sings inside her and outside of her.

“This is a place of spiritual resonance. Where the higher energy you are meets the energy you are now.”

“That makes perfect sense,” I say, and feel as though I am humming the words.

TO BE CONTINUED...
~~~~~~

ANGELIC FORECAST ~

The following week is likely to feel as though the pedal has been pressed to the metal, in an acceleration that boggles the mind. Go with the speed-flow when advantageous. When it’s not, take a step back and watch the world whiz by.

This will also be a week of OPPOSITES. On the one hand, many will feel the need to hunker down, and prepare their home environment for the future. Others will feel the party-hardy bug, and head out for impromptu celebrations.

The speak easy atmosphere is here, and ramping up. Dancing will become a way to escape for many of us, and will also be a way to express our soul and spirit during these times

This week *blowback* begins in a major way. Those who have perpetrated bad and evil acts against humanity will experience ‘blowback’. That is, their evil deeds will become a tsunami force striking them down. The time has come to pay the piper. And it won’t be pretty.

On a personal level, this week is a great time for making those decisions you’ve been putting off. The energies are right. Clarity is yours.

On the trend scene, it’s all about escape, the fantasy escape. And, as was mentioned above, dancing becomes ever more important to humanity. Music and dancing feed the soul in new ways, now.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Warning!!! The global elite [New World Order] does not want *you* to read this book. See ~ Powerful Dreams at my Kougar Kisses blog.

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?

~~~ 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, HOLIDAY IN BOLOGNA and CHASING RACHEL ~

WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS ~ adventure fantasy erotic romance ~ available from Siren-BookStrand ~
~~~

~ HAVE A MAGICKAL NEW YEAR ~

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 ~ In Print

Branded by the Texans ~ IN PRINT ~ A Siren-BookStrand Bestseller!
[Three Star Republic]

A Great Review for Haunted Hearts!



Tara from Fallen Angels Review gave Haunted Hearts 5/5!

Ever since she stole the secrets to those her father has been blackmailing, Gwen has been on the run. For five years she has gone from place to place with only her developmentally disabled brother, Joey, and the ghosts that haunt her for company. For their safety, she has been unwilling to get too close to anybody or to trust them. That is, until she meets Mac, who offers his help to keep her and her brother safe. Somehow, he manages to worm his way into her heart, but unbeknownst to him, she has a secret that can tear them apart. It was her father who was responsible for the death of his father and that is the one thing Mac has never been able to get over. To make things worse, the ghost of Mac's father is currently the one haunting her and he's insistent that she make things right. Will she ever be able to earn Mac's forgiveness or will her secrets destroy them?

Mac was devastated by his father's death and unwilling to forgive himself for being unable to save him. He is just starting to get his life back together when he meets a beautiful woman at the beach and ever since they parted ways, he can't seem to get her out of his mind. When he tracks her down and learns of the danger she and her brother are in, he'll do everything he can to help them and keep them safe, even if he has to drag her kicking and screaming along the way.

I loved this book! Corinne Davies has penned a beautiful story about a love between two people who managed to fall for each other in spite of all the things that should have kept them apart. It is a story about trust and forgiveness and I was drawn in from the very first page. Gwen was such a strong heroine whose devotion to her brother and her desire to keep him safe easily earned my admiration. Mac was a man tormented by his past, but was able to push past his own pain so that he could help Gwen and Joey. His determination to keep them safe while trying to win Gwen's heart made him sexy as hell. The emotional intensity between the two was very powerful and the passion was intoxicating. Ms. Davies has just made her way onto my must-read list and I highly recommend you put her on yours as well.

~Reviewed by: Tara


Click here to read an excerpt!!

LRC's Best of Awards 2010

I’m so excited to share some news with you today. My books have been nominated in various categories for Love Romance Cafe’s Best of Awards for 2010. I’m honored to have been nominated. If you haven’t voted, would you consider supporting my books? Below, you’ll find the Siren books nominated. To vote, click on the LRC banner or Siren book cover.

Thank you for your consideration. I really appreciate you.

Destiny Blaine

Best Romantic Thriller

Breakfast by the Sea by Destiny Blaine (Siren)

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Best Vampire Book


Winning Virgin Devotion by Destiny Blaine—Siren Publishing

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Best Contemporary

Breakfast by the Sea by Destiny Blaine (Siren)


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Best Book All Around

Cowboy Boots and Unfinished Business by Natalie Acres--Siren Publishing


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Best BDSM Book

Cowboy Boots and Unfinished Business by Natalie Acres--Siren Publishing

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Best Paranormal AuthorDestiny Blaine

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If you’re voting in the Preditors and Editors Readers Poll, please consider the following two nominations as well:

Sexy is Never Ignored, a Sports Wives title was nominated for Best Book Ever at P&E

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I received a nomination here as well:

http://critters.org/bestpoll/erot_author.shtml

Thank you again for your support. You’re appreciated more than you know. I’m looking forward to spending time with you in 2011.


Destiny Blaine

TSR Welcomes Daisy Harris

Let's give a warm TSR welcome to Daisy Harris!

TSR:Tell us about your Ocean Shifters books.

Daisy:I wanted to tell a stories set by the water because Mere Temptation was aboutcoming home to the crazy place you grew up. Since I was born in Miami and lived the first few years of my life in a little house across the street from a harbor, that place to come home to, for me, was the seaside.

Oceanside communities are so complex- there's always a vacation crowd, the townies, the people who make a living from the water, the drifters, etc. I created the mere, the dragon empire, the shark-shifters all as part of that landscape- different peoples with shared and often contentious histories.

So the Ocean shifters world contains a myriad of politics, power dynamics, and changing economic landscapes. And how that plays out depends largely on where the story is set. Mere Temptation took place in the Caribbean, Mere Passion the Arctic, Shark Bait was set mostly on the water, in dories, yachts, and old rusted fishing boats that went from north of Scotland all the way to Panama City.

TSR:Mermaids are pretty common, but you go way beyond that. How are your mermaids different from what people expect?

Daisy:Well first off, my mere are half dolphin, not half-fish. That's an important distinction in my world because to call a mere a "fish" is a racial slur. Mere are marine mammals, and very proud of that fact. My mere are also shape-shifting, growing legs in human form.

The most important aspect of my mere is that the females can become fully human. If a mere female looses her virginity to a human, she becomes human. If she looses it to a dragon, shark, or mere she becomes mere. And though adult mere can take human form, they can't survive very far from the water, so their prospects are limited. (That was a big part of my plot in Mere Temptation, the first book in the series.)

TSR:It cracks me up that Mere Passion has an ‘interracial’ tag, yet there’s nothing for interspecies. What surprised you most about the publishing process?

Daisy:Yeah, I laughed about that! It is a very interracial story- the races being dragons and mere. They have tons of bad blood between them. Dragons are very dark-skinned, and mere are very pale, so they look different in human form, but the interracial tag did amuse me. I hope none of my readers were let down!

Otherwise, it's hard to say what surprised me most. This whole past year of writing has been one big whirlwind, so everything is new and surprising!

TSR:I noticed you departed from your ‘Mere’ title pattern. I did this as well with one of my series. How do you decide on titles?

Daisy:I knew nothing about choosing titles back when I chose Mere Temptation and MerePassion! I was so new to the world, and in retrospect might have chosen something less inter-changeable. I've noticed people getting much more excited about Shark Bait than my Mere books. Part of that is because people lovesharks. smile But I think it's also a stronger, more memorable name.

Moving forward, I'm going to put more effort into naming. It's the first thing a reader sees, after all!

TSR:Most people put pieces of themselves in their characters. What favorite pieceof yourself have you put into which character?

Daisy:Hmmmm…. That's tough. I loved channeling my trash-talking, tough-girl self into Alara from Mere Passion, but I also loved playing up my pushover, geeky self for Sophia in Shark Bait. I'd probably have to go with Sophia though.

What I love about her story is that she's an inherently submissive, waifish, nerd, and that she doesn't need to stop being that way for a man to love her. She (a dragon)comes from a race where boldness and strength are valued above all, but Raider (the shark-shifter) loves her not only despite her weakness, but also because of it.

As women, we're so often told that we'll never succeed if we don't do blah, blah, blah, or become blah, blah, blah. But there's a place for everyone and someone who'll love you just as you are. That's the most romantic thing I can imagine!

TSR: When you’re not writing, what’s your favorite thing to do?

Daisy:I love reading. I'm also totally addicted to Twitter. Other than that? Hanging out with my kids, going out for wine and cheese, bike riding.

TSR: What’s next for you?

Daisy:I have a Valentine's Day story coming out as part of an anthology with Sizzler Editions. I also have a zombie-robot hybrid story that should go out forsubmission soon. And I'm writing a centaur short story. I love writing unusual types of characters, and putting new spins on old stories.

Important Links:

BuyLink: http://www.bookstrand.com/shark-bait

WebsiteLink: www.thedaisyharris.com

Friday, January 21, 2011

The Sequel to Bridled and Branded is Coming Soon

Bridled and Saddled, the sequel to Bridled and Branded, is coming soon to Siren Publishing. Mark your calendars and watch for this exciting new sequel coming to Siren-Bookstrand in May 2011!



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Lynlee Lewis is an old-fashioned girl who might as well take the lead in a modern day romance. She met a boy, when he was just a boy. She fell in love, but he barely noticed. Now, Lynlee wants to place a woman’s brand on Blaine McCain, but will his past prevent her from staking a claim?

Cover for The Arrangement

Hello all, I have great news to share. I just got the cover art for my upcoming release,
The Arrangement.

New York, l947
Corey accepted a business deal joining her and Reese in an arranged marriage to save her family business. Falling in love with him wasn't in her plan.
Can Reese persuade her their relationship goes beyond finances. Will they find true love and respect within this arranged marriage?
I'll be back as soon as I get a release date. I hope everyone has a great weekend, Lillith.

Thursday, January 20, 2011

New G-Spot!


I’ve just sent out the latest issue of my newsletter, The G-Spot.

Highlights this issue:

• What I’m Reading/Recommended Reads
• This Issue’s Novel Excerpt: POINT OF BEGINNING by Gale Stanley
• This Issue’s Spotlight Author: GALE STANLEY!
• This Issue's Newsletter Contest—SUBSCRIBERS ONLY!

And more!

To check out past issues or to subscribe, visit:
http://www.authorsden.com/visit/viewnewsletter.asp?AuthorID=623

To read the current issue, visit:
http://www.AuthorsDen.com/adstorage/623/Newsletter_Jan_20_2011.doc


Enjoy!

4 Pink Diamonds for Sexual Healing for Three!




“McKeever’s masterful weaving of paranormal elements in her story adds flavor to the universal themes she touches, such as the residual effects of domestic abuse, learning to trust, and the strength in familial love. Though Donna, Russ, and Chance’s risqué love scenes are not for the faint at heart, readers of all tolerances can appreciate Sexual Healing for Three’s lessons about life and even the entertaining (and oh-so-delicious) ride, from beginning to end.” 4 Pink Diamonds, Tasha, SistahFriend Book Club. To read the complete review, visit here: http://www.pinkreviewers.com/2011/01/sexual-healing-for-three-matchmaker-5.html

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Wednesday's Words for January 19, 2010


Early this past Monday morning, all across this great Canadian province of Ontario, people from all walks of life—crossing all socio-economic, political, gender, and racial boundaries—breathed a huge sigh of relief and gratitude as the beer vat convoy finally reached its destination, safe and sound and ready to be put into service.

There are few things so deeply Canadian, guaranteed to bring tears to the eyes or to rouse the national spirit as our love of beer.

The Molson Coors brewery near Pearson Airport, Toronto had purchased six giant beer vats. These came to Canada from that other great beer-loving nation—Germany—by boat, arriving in Hamilton Harbor and off-loaded on January 7 2011.

Once ashore, and utilizing complex logistics that would make any army general proud, the six enormous vats began their journey to their final destination.
How big are these vats, you ask? Each one will hold approximately 1.4 million bottles of beer.

Yes, that’s right. 1.4 million bottles of beer.

To drive from the harbour in Hamilton to the brewery outside of Toronto using what we call the 400-series highways, would for you or me be a journey of about 66 kilometres, or 41 miles. However, these vats were so large, they had to be delivered via a different route, as they were too big to go under any highway overpasses. This is why the vats arrived at Hamilton harbour instead of the much closer Toronto harbour in the first place.

The trucking company, which planned (a six month long endeavour) and executed what is being called the most complicated moving job in Ontario’s history, used forty vehicles to make the move—twenty of which were off duty police vehicles, at the expense of the brewery, of course. The convoy also included a mechanic, a welder, and a food truck.

The first major hurdle the convoy had to overcome was the uphill slog to the top of the Niagara Escarpment, along a section of Highway 6 called the Clappison Cut. Each flatbed needed two diesel trucks to accomplish that feat.

In the course of the actual distance traveled—108 kilometres (67 miles)—there were 1600 overhead wires that needed to be moved, involving 8 different hydro-electric companies. The wires were either raised ahead of time, or cut and then repaired after the convoy passed. Yes, this meant that people all along the route were without electricity for anywhere from a half hour to two hours. But honestly, I have not heard of one single solitary complaint about the inconvenience.

After all, this is Canada, and the cause was beer.

Also along the route, some 250 traffic lights needed to be dismantled and then reassembled as the one kilometre long convoy passed through those controlled intersections.

The convoy moved only at night, and only on secondary roads. The journey was to have taken five days. But cold temperatures and an unexpected snow storm stretched that time line considerably.

Each day as I drove my beloved to work and we listened to the local news on the car radio, we received an update on the convoy. The fact that it was the first item on the news every day just underscored for me how serious we Canadians can be about our beer. As for those of us who are of German-Canadian descent...well, serious is such a paltry word, isn’t it?

But finally, in the wee hours of Monday morning, those enormous vats—that visually resemble jumbo jet engines—arrived at the brewery amid cheers and applause and the honking of horns.

And you thought the use of the word “eh” was our most noteworthy affectation!

Love,
Morgan
Did you get Shackled yet?
http://www.bookstrand.com/morgan-ashbury
http://wednesdayswordsbymorgan.blogspot.com/

Monday, January 17, 2011

Cowboy Easy - coming January 20th

Cowboy Easy

Blaecleah Brothers 1

AVAILABLE: Thursday, January 20th

Pre-Buy today!

This new release is offered at a 10% discount for four weeks.

http://www.bookstrand.com/cowboy-easy

[Siren Classic ManLove: Erotic Alternative Cowboy Romance, M/M]

Lachlan Blaecleah never expected to find the love of his life in the middle of a street fight with two other men, but he knew the moment he saw Asa Miller that he wanted to get to know the man better. He jumps into the fight and becomes Asa's knight in slightly tarnished armor.

Asa Miller is amazed by Lachlan every time he looks at him. He's a walking, talking cowboy fantasy come to life, complete with hat and boots. After being rescued by him and taken home for a night of debauchery at the hands of the sexy cowboy, Asa isn't sure what to do next. Should he stick around and get to know Lachlan and his large family better or run from the feelings the man invokes in him?

Before Asa can make his choice, someone else steps in to separate the two men, on a more permanent basis. Asa has to decide if what they have together is worth the heartache he feels when he almost loses the man he loves. Or should he guard his heart and lose his cowboy forever?

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Angelic Forecast ~ #124


I hear the Heavenly One’s soul sadness... a reflection of my own.

“Hang on,” the Cherub hollers moments later.

Hang on? I wonder how I’m supposed to hang onto a cloud. I grab Moon Dream instead. She squirms close and hangs onto me.

As we spin at a dizzying speed, I close my eyes, and feel the unsettled tumult of my stomach.

A bizarre sound begins. A high-pitched tone that sounds almost like a medieval fanfare trumpet, but more melodic. Next, I hear the sound of the wind blasting by.

In instants, we stop and land with a definite thump.

“Good thing a cloud is a natural cushion,” the Heavenly one jovially croons.

“Good thing,” I mutter as I open my eyes, and ease my grip on Moon Dream. “What the ancient-Egyptian heck?”

I stare in wonder at what looks like the inside if King Tut’s tomb... well, sort of... that is, if it had still been intact. Gold, and designs in bright bold colors... turquoise, a dark shade of red, a deep yellow-gold, lapis lazuli blue, malachite green, royal purple...

TO BE CONTINUED...
~~~~~~

ANGELIC FORECAST ~

During the following week, the world economy, as well as the US economy, is likely to take center stage. Major players for the dark side will be presenting their plans for rescuing humanity, as if they represent the last best hope. They don’t.

Currently, also, there are big-time machinations behind the scenes. War plans are being drawn up, argued over, and positions taken. The different world factions are proposing their most advantageous strategies. Look for test balloons that will be released to find out the public’s response.

As the forces of tyranny entrench themselves, a Bread-and-Circus atmosphere will be put in place using every media outlet available. Promises will fall like party confetti. Because stalling is now the name of the game.

On a personal level, it is wise to notice what is being presented on the world stage this week. Use your discernment, and the discernment of those you trust, to decide on what course of action you will take.

Also, extra hugs are good this week. Make a game out of stocking up your pantry, and if you haven’t, make special preparations to store water, at least, two weeks worth.

This is also a week to make good career moves. Or, simply advantageous moves that will enhance your life. Subtle opportunities will rear up. Grab them, and don’t look back.

In the world of upcoming trends, if you have a talent for making others laugh, practice, practice, practice. Laughter will be like gold soon.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Warning!!! The global elite [New World Order] does not want *you* to read this book. See ~ Powerful Dreams at my Kougar Kisses blog.

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?

~~~ 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, HOLIDAY IN BOLOGNA and CHASING RACHEL ~

WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS ~ adventure fantasy erotic romance ~ available from Siren-BookStrand ~
~~~

~ HAVE A MAGICKAL NEW YEAR ~

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 ~ In Print

Branded by the Texans ~ IN PRINT ~ A Siren-BookStrand Bestseller!
[Three Star Republic]

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Pick up your copy of Bridled and Branded this Weekend

Bridled and Branded by Natalie Acres

Image and video hosting by TinyPic


Blurb:



Lynlee Lewis is an old-fashioned girl who might as well take the lead in a modern day romance. She met a boy, when he was just a boy. She fell in love, but he barely noticed. Now, Lynlee wants to place a woman’s brand on Blaine McCain, but will his past prevent her from staking a claim?

Lynlee’s storybook romance isn’t without its villains and obstacles. Add in the fact that Blaine rarely travels behind a bedroom door without company and Lynlee wonders why she’s so taken by the cowboy in the first place.

Throw in a deadly situation and Lynlee finds herself in the midst of danger when a knife is shoved against her throat. Worse still, the man behind the blade is traveling with a wife who is no stranger to Blaine McCain. And someone wants to turn Blaine's life upside down with a package full of problems.



Excerpt:


Copyright © 2010


The following excerpt is suitable for all audiences


Chapter One


Lynlee’s gaze darted around the crowded equestrian center as the riding groom led her to the show ring. Prancer danced underneath her, but Lynlee used her leg muscles to grip tighter, determined to drive the feisty mare forward.

Even with a large purse and a grand championship at stake, only one thought crossed her mind.

Where is he?

The announcer welcomed the new competitors. The Five-Gaited Open Division was full of trainers, not amateurs, but Lynlee had the horse for show and the skills to guide Prancer straight into the winner’s circle and claim the coveted victory.

Entering the class with a good first pass, Prancer moved to the outside and struck a gait with an aim to please. The sensational feeling of gaining one of the judge’s attentive gazes washed over Lynlee upon entry. She resisted the urge to look over her shoulder and see if the judge made a mark on his score card.

Around and around, she met up to the challenge of being in a class some might consider out of her league. She didn’t share those sentiments, and besides, Lynlee only had one reason for being there, and she hadn’t spotted him yet.

Blaine McCain never missed the Annual Carolina Showplace Horse Show in Asheville, North Carolina. And when he arrived, Blaine put forth a lot of effort in order to command center stage. His entourage, a pack of pretty boys, gained every woman’s undivided attention. If he walked into the facility, Lynlee would see him.

“Rack ’em on!” The announcer called out. Prancer’s hooves plodded against the ground, and by the time Lynlee returned her focus to the horse under hand, the crowd hummed with plenty of praise.

Glancing out of her peripheral vision, she made a beautiful pass in front of the judges, and in Lynlee-style, she flipped her wrist and gave Prancer the signal her mounts recognized. The gesture was a simple movement to warn of a nearby crop she never used, but the horses she trained responded to the caution and let their legs work for the money.

A few minutes later, the crowd took to their feet and palms came together as they cheered for Lynlee and Prancer, the champions of the hour. With her number called and then her name, she relied on her loyal companion to march toward the gate. She waited for the roses, smiled for the cameras, accepted her blue ribbon, and then enjoyed a coveted victorious finish, which was all the sweeter when she spotted Blaine.

With a standing ovation and many admirers, Lynlee savored everything about her ten seconds of glory. The relished championship made the moment priceless, but Blaine gave her something more. He nodded his head in her direction and nudged one of his buddies in the process.

Life was never sweeter until she went one way, and Prancer went the other......




Read adult excerpts here:
http://www.sirenpublishing.com/natalieacres/

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Characters: who are you? Can you guess?

I solve most of my writing problems when I'm either sleeping (i.e. dreaming) or riding my bicycle. Can't think of what my heroes look like? As soon as I hit minute five on the bike a dozen images of dudes zip through my head (blonde, brunette, tattoos!) and usually those images give me hints about what the men do for a living. Can't figure out why my heroine is so sad? Right before I fall asleep I realize that her first husband died a year ago and she's melancholy because the last time they spoke they argued. This holds true for plot points, tension, what the characters want from love and why, and what they had for dinner yesterday. As soon as I get sweaty or sleepy, ideas pour in from the universe. Unfortunately, this gift doesn't seem to happen when it's time to figure out my characters' names. This is a problem.

A few weeks ago I sat down to outline my next erotic menage and came up blank for names, like usual. I scoured the online name sites. I racked my brain for ideas of what I liked. I got nothing. In desperation I asked my teen son for help. "What?!" you exclaim in horror. "Are you crazy? You shouldn't even be letting him know that you're a romance writer!"

I laugh and tell you to calm down. "Relax. All he knows is that I write loves stories. That sort of thing still makes his face prune up in disgust." And as it turns out, he loved going through the lists of names with me. He has a knack for it. Next time I'm going to ask him for help before I work myself into a frenzy.

Want to know what the names are? I'll give you some hints. The heroine's first name starts with T. The men's first names start with J and P.

The first person to guess one of the names correctly will get a free ebook copy of my latest novel, Appassionato, just released this month! Post your guesses in the comments here or at my blog: http://erinmleaf.blogspot.com/

http://www.bookstrand.com/appassionato

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to date a rock star? And his sexy best friend? At the same time? What if the three of you could share your dreams, literally? 
to read excerpts or buy: http://www.bookstrand.com/appassionato 
[Ménage Amour: Erotic Paranormal Ménage a Trois Romance, M/M/F]
When Emma dreams about super-famous rockstar Duncan and his friend Jake, it never occurs to her they might be dreaming too. About her. Everyone knows dreams aren’t real, but what will happen when the trio’s shared visions develop into a passion that can’t be denied?
When reports of a new "bonding" phenomenon surface, Duncan and Jake finally realize why they feel so connected to the sweet high-school librarian they’ve never met. The headaches and dreams suddenly make sense, but it isn’t until they meet Emma face-to-face that instinct takes over, and passion binds their minds and bodies into a link that can’t be broken.
Then, just as the happy ending Emma always hoped for seems possible, a hostage crisis and a series of kidnappings threatens everything. Can the trio unravel the conspiracy in time to protect the future of their bond?
A Siren Erotic Romance

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Wednesday's Words for January 12, 2010


There is a difference between responsibility and blame. I’m not really sure how it’s happened, but it seems to me that we, who live here in North America, have confused the two to such an extent, I really am worried that we’ll never completely separate them again.

I’m afraid we’ll never get it right.

My beloved has just recently completed his annual ‘safety training’ at work. Each year, in the first week or so of January, his employer presents a program designed to keep everyone aware of the latest safety procedures, to review old information, and to ensure that everyone realizes that the company takes the safety of its workers seriously.

All good.

My husband told me that according to one of the government agencies, “there is no such thing as an accident”. Period. If someone gets hurt at work, then someone, somewhere, somehow is to blame.

In these enlightened times in this province, if a worker is injured on the job, then not only can the company that employs him be charged, and subsequently fined, its principals jailed; so, too, can the worker’s supervisors and even the worker himself.

I can see problems with this stance. Personally, you wouldn’t be able to pay me enough money, under those conditions, to take a supervisory job. And I would guess that, most probably, the best and the brightest employees wouldn’t, either. Fines levied in workplace injury suits can be devastating for an individual to pay, because the employer is prevented, by law, from paying the fines on a supervisor’s behalf.

I really miss common sense. You know, that old thing we used to rely on? That thing that told us to do our best, try our best, and when mistakes happened, as mistakes were wont to do, to learn from them, and do better next time.

Under the above concept, you can change that thinking to read when mistakes happen, lose everything you own and go into bankruptcy and/or jail.

Nope, I don’t ever want to be a supervisor.

We are, as a society, very quick to blame anyone and everyone when tragedy strikes. When that tragedy is as a result of violence perpetrated by one individual upon another—or upon several others, we—represented by our news media and others who would step forward with fingers pointing—are quick to lay the blame for these crimes at countless pairs of feet.

Responsibility and blame. How to know the difference?

My heart goes out to the families and friends of the people murdered in Tucson last weekend. I especially feel great grief for the family of Christina Taylor Green. The murder of the young and innocent seems to me to be the most heinous of crimes. I also pray for the recovery of the injured.

Who do we blame for this tragedy? The man whose finger was on the trigger.
Do we look further? Certainly not in any criminal sense, in my opinion—unless he had a verifiable accomplice. I’ve been hearing “talking heads” from both ends of the political spectrum either casting blame or denying responsibility, at (metaphorically speaking) the tops of their lungs. I’ve a news flash for them. This isn’t about them, or their constant demonizing of each other, or their political agendas.

This is about a man who coldly and, apparently premeditatedly, committed mass murder. It’s about the lives taken, and the people injured.

I would, however, like to share one very personal opinion, if I may. It has always been my belief that when you step forward and would assume a role of leadership—be it in education, religion, law enforcement, business, or politics—that you are obliged to hold yourself to a higher standard; to remember that the examples you set, whether you want them to or not, inspire others—for good, and yes, sometimes, for evil.

This is a lesson we should have learned in 1170 when Henry II expressed his frustration by uttering, “What miserable drones and traitors have I nourished and brought up in my household, who let their lord be treated with such shameful contempt by a low-born cleric?" Words misinterpreted by the king’s devout followers as an order to assassinate the Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket.
I don’t hold out much hope we’re going to learn this lesson anytime soon.

Love,
Morgan
GET SHACKLED
JANUARY 14 2010
http://www.bookstrand.com/morgan-ashbury
http://wednesdayswordsbymorgan.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Discount on Bestsellers!

The First Time is the Sweetest is still on sale at Siren-BookStrand. Get a 15% discount on my first erotic romance! This offer ends January 12.



[Ménage Amour: Erotic Contemporary Ménage a Trois Romance, M/M/F, with M/M, Suspense]
Two men.

One woman.

A mystery shooter.
Who is trying to kill Sabrina and why? Will Jimmy be able to protect her, or will he need the help of sexy FBI agent Gabriel? And how can Sabrina resist falling in love when she experiences passion for the first time?
Despite the danger, she can’t help how she feels, especially not when Gabriel and Jimmy begin to rekindle the romance they had to abandon years ago. When she realizes that both men desire her just as much as they want each other, she falls head over heels for the first time.
When violence strikes, the only way out of disaster is for the three of them to trust in each other and in love.
A Siren Erotic Romance

 ♪♫♪♫  

Happily, my new book Appassionato is still on sale and will be for several more weeks! Get this new bestseller now at Siren-Bookstrand!


[Ménage Amour: Erotic Paranormal Ménage a Trois Romance, M/M/F]
When Emma dreams about super-famous rockstar Duncan and his friend Jake, it never occurs to her they might be dreaming too. About her. Everyone knows dreams aren’t real, but what will happen when the trio’s shared visions develop into a passion that can’t be denied?
When reports of a new "bonding" phenomenon surface, Duncan and Jake finally realize why they feel so connected to the sweet high-school librarian they’ve never met. The headaches and dreams suddenly make sense, but it isn’t until they meet Emma face-to-face that instinct takes over, and passion binds their minds and bodies into a link that can’t be broken.
Then, just as the happy ending Emma always hoped for seems possible, a hostage crisis and a series of kidnappings threatens everything. Can the trio unravel the conspiracy in time to protect the future of their bond?
A Siren Erotic Romance

Monday, January 10, 2011

Angelic Forecast ~ #123



“Pyramids work, too,” he cheerily croons.

Pyramid power neutralizes toxins?” I ask.

“Used with ancient know-how, yes. That ‘lost’ knowledge of how to use ‘pyramid power’ for energy, and other beneficial purposes, is now being revealed for use by humanity against the Dark Ones.”

“Dark Ones. The war has been escalated...between the light force and the dark force,” I say, tingling with my knowing.

“Yes,” the Cherub answers, his tone somber. “As above, so below.” Pausing, he causes the cloud to hover higher. “The battle is furious.”

“Lots of chaos about to happen,” I murmur, then sigh my heart out.

“Weather. Land Changes. Conflicts. Worst of all, constant and brutal attacks on the innocent.”

I hear the Heavenly One’s soul sadness... a reflection of my own.

TO BE CONTINUED...
~~~~~~

ANGELIC FORECAST ~

For the following week ‘distraction’ is the name of the world-stage game, as never before. Most everything spouted from the media-news heights is designed to ‘distract’ from the truth.

Also, a major push is underway to use tactics that ‘divide and conquer’. This can be compared to the American Civil War, where brother fought brother. One weapon in this arsenal will be the issue of free speech.

Those ‘for’ free speech will be pitted against those who now make a case against free speech in America. As sci fi and diabolical as this may sound, THOSE who are masters of mass manipulation will attempt to get this battle going, and raging. Violence is their endgame.

On a personal level, this week is all about preparing your mind in a new way. The truth about past events will pound down on us like a one-eyed giant rampaging through city streets.

Few of us will remain unaffected, and it is wise to prepare your mind for this onslaught of information, as well as all the information yet to be revealed.

Your haven will be the homefront, or that place where your heart lives. Being among your most cherished loved ones is your wisest course of action. Also, focus on doing everything and anything you can to improve your home, and your life at home. Later, the rewards will be immense.

Another ‘slowly’ emerging trend is a more romantic approach to life and living, and entertainment. That is, a glamorous romance as opposed to in-your-face sexual romance.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Warning!!! The global elite [New World Order] does not want *you* to read this book. See ~ Powerful Dreams at my Kougar Kisses blog.

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?

~~~ IN PRINT ~~~ a former #1 on Siren-BookStrand’s bestseller list ~

Author Discovery by Lindsay Townsend lindsaytownsend.net, BookStrand author of FLAVIA’S SECRET, A SECRET TREASURE, BLUE GOLD, BRONZE LIGHTNING, SILK AND STEEL, HOLIDAY IN BOLOGNA and CHASING RACHEL ~

WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS ~ adventure fantasy erotic romance ~ available from Siren-BookStrand ~
~~~

~ HAVE A MAGICKAL NEW YEAR ~

May you live the dreams of your heart...

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 ~ In Print

Branded by the Texans ~ IN PRINT ~ A Siren-BookStrand Bestseller!
[Three Star Republic]

Sunday, January 9, 2011

TSR: Tell us about your Bliss Series.

Sophie: Nights in Bliss is a series about a very quirky Colorado town and its unusual citizens. Bliss is a town where anything goes. It was founded by hippies in the sixties and now is home to artists, nudists and the occasional conspiracy theorist. Of course, it also has super hot, willing-to-share cowboys. The first cycle of the series involves four friends who grew up together in Bliss. Three to Ride is about the cowboy twins, Max and Rye Harper. Two to Love is about Callie Sheppard and her men. The final book in this part of the series is One to Keep about Stefan Talbot and Jennifer Waters. It’s much more BDSM oriented than the other two. Hopefully it will be out sometime this spring.

TSR: All of your works include aspects of light BDSM. What draws you to the lifestyle/topic?

Sophie: I love the power exchange. I think there’ssomething intensely romantic about BDSM. It’s all about communication. It’s all about being honest about what we want and need from the people we love. What could be sexier than that? Besides, I’m a girl who appreciates a good spanking.

TSR: You became a Siren star relatively quickly. How does it affect the kinds of writing you plan to do?

Sophie: It means I’m really committed to my series. I have four books in my BDSM-themed Texas Sirens series and I haven’t put a limit on Bliss. It will be a while before I take a break and write something new. Siren has really turned out to be a great place to be. I wouldn’t be anywhere else. The fans are so loyal. They’ve been lovely.

TSR: I noticed you’re a fan of Glee. What do you like about the show? Any other favorites?

Sophie: I love that it makes me feel. Even when it’s corny, I’m willing to go with it because I want to be there emotionally. I think it’s a neat trick. It’s a musical, but it relies on music we already know, so there’s a very individual component to each episode because we all have different reactions to the songs they use. It’s why Moulin Rouge worked so brilliantly. As for TV, actually most of what I love is SciFi. I know it sounds weird, but I’m a geek girl at heart. I love Doctor Who, The Walking Dead, Fringe and oldies like Buffy and Farscape.

TSR: In Away From Me, you touch on a serious issue, breast cancer, that hits close to home for a lot of people. What inspired you to use breast cancer as a plot device?

Sophie: A friend of mine had a scare with breast cancer and I kind of went from there. I liked the idea of a physically imperfect heroine. She’s torn up on the outside while my hero has been shredded on the inside. Neither wants to show the other their scars. It takes love and trust to get them to open up. And I hope it didn’t come across as a simple plot device. Gaby is a survivor. She’s a woman who takes what life has given her and tries to make the best of it. I think everyone who has dealt with cancer finds that it changes their lives. My family has a long history of cancer, so I know I could very well deal with it one day soon. I guess I hope I’m as brave as Gaby. She’s what I would aspire to be.

TSR: What are the pros and cons of series writing?

Sophie: Now there’s a question to ponder while I switch from one series to the other. The pros are many. As a writer you get to world build over a series of books. You get to really know these characters you’re writing about. On the con side – you have to know what you’re doing down the line because once that first book is published there’s no going back. The series starts to build its own history and you have to be aware of that. The book I’m writing right now is about a 32-year-old artist and a 23-year-old waitress. If I had really thought about it when I wrote Three to Ride, I would have made her older. Now that I’m writing Stef and Jen’s book, her age is a big factor. So you need be mindful when you start a series that you don’t write yourself into a corner.

TSR: What’s next for you?

Sophie: I have a novella coming out in January called Playing the Field. It’s a complete left turn from what I normally write. It’s a fun sex romp. Then in February the third Texas Sirens book Siren Enslaved comes out. Then I go back to Bliss with One to Keep.

Important Links:

Buy Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/two-to-love

Website Link: www.sophieoak.com

The Contest: You can win an electronic copy of anything from Sophie's backlist, including Three to Ride, or you can win a signed copy of Small Town Siren. Comment by 8 pm EST Wednesday 1-12-2011 for your chance to win. Comments must be made on TSR blog: http://www.michelezurlo.com/apps/blog/show/5748648-tsr-welcomes-sophie-oak-