A New Week

The start of a new week and it holds lots of promises. We had a fun time in NY. I got to see a bunch of old friends at my cousin’s birthday party and visiting with my family is always a good time.
The girls back home are all into Zumba. I recently heard about it on the talk show – The Talk. It looks like so much fun. I love to dance. All my girlfriends and I used to go out dancing frequently when I lived in NY. So to me this is a great way to lose weight. The constant theme I heard was it didn’t feel like working out. They’re having fun and being goofy. AND they were surprised when the 30 mins was up. Now that’s my kind of exercise. I’ll be looking into that in the future.
We got home from NY early in the afternoon and by 8pm I was down with a migraine. A BIG one. So big I considered going to the ER for something really strong. Somewhere around 2:30am it eased up. Between meds and cold compresses the pressure finally subsided. I wish they could find something I’m not allergic to that would rid my migraines. For now I’ll suffer.
In other news I signed my first contract of 2011. It’s for a short I wrote for Noble Romance called Love Revisited. I showed you the cover art last week, which I received before the contract. Now I can officially say my story will be released on April 11th. I’m excited. I always love hearing about where characters are after we leave them.
Something fun: Today is National Backwards Day. There are many fun things you can do like walk backwards or wear your shirt backwards, but my ultimate favorite is eating your meal backwards. Start with dessert!
Happy Monday!

Things That Make Me Want to Scream

Okay, so it’s not things…it’s a thing. My ice machine on my refrigerator. The ice maker is very loud and obnoxious when dispensing cubes, especially when you’re sleeping.
I have this pet peeve about using the ice dispenser when people are sleeping in the house. DON’T DO IT. What is wrong with sticking your hand inside the freezer and grabbing the cubes?
Why am I ranting about ice you wonder? Well I have this habit of falling asleep on the couch every night. I have a contemporary ranch, so the kitchen is open overlooking the living room. No walls to block out sound. The DH has a nightly habit too. He’ll let the dogs out, grab himself a glass of ice water and pull down the bed. Last night was no different.
He went to the kitchen and sure enough gets some ice which proceeded to scare the living daylights out of me. He then whispers to the dogs. “Come on, guys. Time to go out.”
I was tempted to scream, “WTF are you whispering for. You’ve already woke me up with the ice dispenser.”
I didn’t.
Instead I stewed on the couch, letting him go to bed alone. I was so pissed it wasn’t funny.
Now mind you he watches me open the freezer every single night to grab my ice and quietly put it in my glass. I don’t want to wake the sleeping children in the house. So I stayed up watching television and sending out query letters until almost 2am. Hey, at least I was productive, right?
Off my soapbox. This morning I managed to write THE END on my latest WIP Rainy Day. I’ll edit it this weekend while in the hotel room in NY. I’m going home to celebrate my cousin’s 40th birthday. I’m looking forward to seeing my family.
Hope you have a fantastic weekend!

Marianne Stephens

1) How did you start your writing career?
After reading tons of romance books, I decided to try writing one. I knew nothing about the process or industry, but bought a book about writing romance stories. I sent my book to agents and had three ask to read a full or partial. All rejected it. One agent was kind enough to tell me I needed dialogue in my story. I’d written most of it as narrative. I had much to learn. I took some writing weekend seminars and met someone who told me about Romance Writers of America and a local chapter, Mid-America Romance Authors. I began my journey to learn what I needed to learn in order to publish.

2) Tell us about your favorite character from your books.
In “Gone to the Dogs”, I love the heroine, Katie. I wrote the book in first person, and enjoyed being in her head the entire time. I felt a real connection to her! She’s from New York and moves to Kansas, and likes to do everything on her own (all just like me). I adore how she dances around romancing Mike, her fireman hero, but lets true love win.

3) Tell us about your next release.
It’s not a romance book! I’ve ventured into a different realm of writing: nonfiction. I had a nonfiction ebook published in 1999, and this will be my second. “Guilty Survivor – Memoirs of Tamerla Kendall” is a ghostwritten account of her life in Sarajevo during the 1992-1995 Bosnian War. It’s amazing what she had to do to survive those three years. Hers is a story of courage, fear, ingenuity, and survival. Difficult choices she made then still disturb her peace of mind and life today.
Tamerla Kendall is the woman you see rooting for her son at sporting practice. You might meet her in a grocery story. Perhaps you’ll see her planting a garden behind her home. Or, talk to her at school or work. She’s a student, worker, wife and mother. Surviving a dark past is hidden by her façade of an everyday, average life. Reading her memoirs will reveal her true struggle to survive in a war zone, and is a testament to her courage.

4) Has someone helped or mentored you in your writing career?

Yes. I credit some friends who nudged me when I was ready to give up…Sandy Marshall and Cheryl Rabin. And, author Carla Cassidy has been a major source of support and help. She gave me some insight into my writing and inspired me to make changes. I sold right after heeding her advice!

5) When was your first sale?
October 2006. I sold “Second Sight Dating” to Ellora’s Cave for their Cerridwen Press imprint. It’s a story about a psychic who runs a dating agency…and the undercover detective who’s assigned to investigate what she does by becoming one of her clients.

6) What is the hardest part of writing your books?
The middle. Even though I have a sentence outline I follow, I always get to that middle section and go brain-dead. I have to stop what I’m doing and wait for days until I can think clearly again.

7) Who are your books published with?
Mainstream romances by Marianne Stephens: http://www.breathlesspress.com/ and http://www.jasminejade.com/m-310-marianne-stephens.aspx (Was Cerridwen but now Blush)
Erotic romances by April Ash: http://www.jasminejade.com/m-441-april-ash.aspx (Ellora’s Cave)
Nonfiction by Marianne Stephens: http://secretcravingspublishing.com/MarianneStephens.html

8) Do you use a pen name? If so, how did you come up with it?
Marianne is my “real” first name, but Stephens is not my “real” last name. My “real” last name is always mispronounced and sometimes not spelled correctly by others….so I became Marianne Stephens. When I started writing erotic romances, I decided to add a new pen name. I choose April Ash since it was short and easy to put on promotional items!

9) What are your favorite TV shows?
NCIS, CSI (all of them), Psych, Numb3rs, Fox News, Kansas City Chiefs football games, and NY Mets baseball games.

10) Do you have any suggestions for beginning writers? If so, what are they?
Don’t change your voice, but be willing to listen to advice. If you can’t accept constructive criticism, you won’t do well with critique groups. Remember that well-known authors can “get away” with some certain styles or techniques that beginners need to avoid. Don’t head-hop and watch dialogue tags.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
First, I’d like to thank Amber for doing my interview! Readers can visit my websites: http://www.mariannestephens.net/ or http://www.aprilash.net/ . I can also be found at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/romancebooksrus , http://romancebooksrus.blogspot.com/ , and http://alldayallnightromancedivas.blogspot.com/

Snow and Rejection - SUCK

Seriously another storm is on the horizon? We’re averaging one a week here in the Northeast. The kids will be going to school until August at this rate. If you couldn’t tell I’m sick to death of the snow. I’m ready for spring – if you’re listening Mother Nature.
In other news, I got a rejection yesterday. I subbed to a new to me publisher. The rejection was more of a revision letter. Very nice and very detailed. It wouldn’t take much to make the story click. I’ll admit she did have some good points. Bottom line – it still SUCKS. Rejection of any kinds SUCKS.
I’ve made a compromise in my spare bedroom situation. The daughter has 'til March 1st to move out. After that we’ll paint the bedroom something bright and cheery. I’ll get a nice comfy chair/recliner for writing in there in the morning. DH will have it as his office three days a week. The other two I’ll use the room. Until we can afford an addition I think it’ll work out just fine.
Tomorrow I have special guest Marianne Stephens so do drop in and say hello to her!
Happy Hump Day!

New Cover Art

I'm excited about my new cover. Who doesn't love Jimmy Thomas?
In Love Revisited I went back to take a look at where my characters Scott and Delia from the story Rein Me In are today. The story appeared in the Spank Me Twice anthology with Noble Romance. I don't have a release date yet, but they're thinking sometime in February.

I was pleasantly surprised to see me, along with Tara Nichols, Jude Mason and Keta Diablo are up for Best Anthology of 2010. For our book Spank Me Twice. If you feel so inclined I'd love your vote.http://lovesbooksandmore.blogspot.com/2011/01/nominees-for-best-anthologymulti-author.html

Dilemma

We have a spare room in our house. Well, we will once my daughter moves out again. This will be soon. (Stopping to say a quick prayer) lol Anyway, I love this room. It was our son’s. It’s one of the brightest rooms in the house.
While my youngest was at a sleepover this weekend, I had the opportunity to spend a quiet morning in there and do some writing. As I looked around I realized we hadn’t painted that room – ever. It’s the same color as when we bought the house almost six years ago. At the time the blue worked for my son. He loved it. Even the valances are from the original owners. Granted I’ve washed them numerous times, but the point is it’s time for a change.
Back when I was a bit younger I wouldn’t hesitate to run to the store and buy a can of paint. I’d spend a Saturday afternoon changing a room, without a second thought. I did this frequently. Say every six months or so. That’s no longer true.
So what’s the dilemma you ask. I want to make it my office, getting rid of the spare bedroom. The DH currently resides in one corner of the bedroom with his desk. He works out of the house three days a week. If I move my things up there I’ll have to share space with him.
Don’t get me wrong, I love the man completely, but spending 8 hours a day together in a 12x12 room while working, doesn’t appeal to me. For one there are many times throughout the day where we have conference calls that coincide. How would I conduct a call while he’s on the other side of the room doing the same?
I like the idea of being downstairs doing my thing while he’s upstairs doing his, but I also REALLY want this room. This leads me to my second problem. DH has a small corner desk, which holds his two work laptops. That’s about all he needs to get through the day. Me on the other hand, I have a LARGE desk that takes up a lot of room on two walls. Besides my two work laptops I have my personal stuff. I have my writing stuff. Just the thought of moving that desk upstairs makes me cringe.
I found this awesome high heel chair down the street at the furniture store. I’m thinking it would look really cool in an office. I think it’s time for the DH to consider an addition on the house. This way he’ll get his office and I’ll have mine.

Baby, it's cold outside!

Woke to the warm temperature of 6 degrees this morning. It’s warm inside the house, but I need to go out and I don’t want to. Today is one of those days where I’d like to cuddle under a warm blanket and read a good book or do some writing. Instead, I’ll be braving the frigid temps and going to the market. I always put things off until the very last minute.
On top of that someone told me we’re looking at another storm Tuesday/Wednesday that has the potential to dump 20-24 inches of snow. WTF! I know, I know, it’s winter, but seriously. We’re already buried in snow. I won’t be able to see pulling out of my driveway at this point and I have a SUV. I’m not sitting low to the ground. Off my soapbox now!
DH and I went to see The Fighter yesterday. I can see why Christian Bale won the Golden Globe. I’m not sure supporting actor was the right category. He did a phenomenal job with his character, who, in my opinion was the main character. The movie took me on an emotional roller coaster ride. One minute I hated the character, the next I wanted to cry for him and then I was cheering him.
Don’t get me wrong I loved Mark Wahlberg, but I think Christian Bale was the lead in this story.
And don’t forget if you haven’t voted, ME, along with the fabulous authors Keta Diablo, Jude Mason and Tara Nichols are up for Best Anthology for Spank Me Twice. Love Romance Café is hosting this award. Here’s the link!
http://lovesbooksandmore.blogspot.com/2011/01/nominees-for-best-anthologymulti-author.html

Up for Best Anthology

I was pleasantly surprised to see me, along with Tara Nichols, Jude Mason and Keta Diablo are up for Best Anthology of 2010. For our book Spank Me Twice. If you feel so inclined I'd love your vote.

http://lovesbooksandmore.blogspot.com/2011/01/nominees-for-best-anthologymulti-author.html

Thanks and Stay Warm!

Amber

TGIF!

I sent another story off this morning.
This weekend I’d like to finish working on the Exotika story I’m working on. Amber Heat is doing a special call out and I really want to sub something for it. The due date is April 1st and must be at least 18k. I’ve got something in mind for the theme and will likely start working on that once Rainy Day is finished.
We have another snow day here in New England. On top of that they’re talking about frigid temps for the weekend. I don’t do bitter cold. Guess I’ll be stuck in the house all weekend. I really need to grocery shop. We’ll see.
Hope everyone stays warm and dry wherever you are.

Happy Friday!

Snow. Snow and more snow

They're calling for more snow tonight. I know it's winter, but we've had more than enough.

Stay warm!

Another one bites the dust!

The End. Those are two of my favorite words. Why? Because I know I’ve accomplished something. I’ve finished yet another story. It might be great. It might suck. That’s up to my editor to decide, but for me it’s exhilarating.
I battle different demons whenever writing a book, so the feeling of triumph never diminishes with every new book I write.
As you can probably tell I finished a book today. Really it was a SHORT (4k) story. I’m revisiting two characters that appeared in the Spank Me Twice Anthology with Noble Romance. I sent the story off to a friend for her opinion. She’s someone who knows my work well and will give me the feedback I need. That’s right, I mean the truth! LoL
While I await her comments I’ll be jotting down ideas I have for a new YA. I’ve been mulling it around for a while now. It’s time to put my notes on paper so I can see if it has potential.
Happy Wednesday!

Special Guest - Heather Peters

Today I'm handing my blog time over to Heather Peters. In Sept she lost her beloved husband. Since she's having a hard time still I'm going to give you a little taste of her new release from Red Sage.

Blurb:
Forty year old Ava Denotti needs a hefty dose of self-confidence. Can she get it from the twenty-nine year old former fiance of the woman that ran off with her husband?
Tattooed, Bad boy Shane Sullivan is determined to make up for the time he wasted with the wrong woman. He's finally given the opportunity to pursue an attraction that's always been forbidden. Sexy Ava Denotti is all woman, and he wants her- in every position possible, and he wants her bad.
The two kicked to the curb ex’s proving the end of one relationship can often be the beginning of something so much better. And falling in love can be a sweet revenge.
Excerpt:
He took her hand and cradled it inside his own, and Ava experienced instant warmth. "That's me, Shane Sullivan, Britney’s former fiancé, and now very happy single man. It’s good to see you again, Ava."
Ava took note that he’d made it a point to inform her of his availability. But what would he want with her, a forty-year old divorcee with a weight problem? Oh, what the hell? What was a little harmless flirting with this gorgeous guy?
Ava stared at the black T-shirt tucked into jeans worn with age and comfort. He embraced her hand a little longer than appropriate, yet she didn’t mind.
What would it feel like to have those large hands caress and touch her breasts, to have those long fingers buried inside her pussy until she exploded into shards of ecstasy?
"It’s good to see you again, too, Shane." Her voice came out in a croak.
"Can I buy you a drink?" Yes, definitely a touch of the Irish in that lyrical voice.
"This just happens to be my bar, so in honor of seeing you again, the drinks are on me."
His eyebrows rose, and he smiled. "In which case, I’ll have a double scotch rocks if you please."
Elena wriggled her eyebrows and threw Ava a mischievous grin. "Another Cosmo for you, boss?"
"None for me, thanks, but Shane will have a double scotch rocks, on the house."
Elena winked at Shane. "The man knows what he wants."
Shane answered the bartender, but his eyes never left Ava’s. "I do indeed."
He leaned one well toned arm on the bar and faced Ava. "Well, I hope you don’t mind, but I’ve enjoyed the view all night and couldn’t help but overhear. If you don't mind me asking, what are you doing all alone on your birthday?"
"I’m not alone," she laughed, leaning into him, then waving her hand to encompass the remaining customers. Play it cool, and don’t make an ass of yourself.
He smiled and a flash of white teeth assailed her senses. "Well, not anymore." He saluted her with the glass Elena placed before him.
"I'm enjoying the atmosphere. I don’t need a date to have fun."
Shut up, Ava, you’re rambling.
"Good for you." He threw back his head and downed the shot in one swallow.
Even his Adam's apple is sexy.
His eyes were framed by the longest eyelashes she'd ever seen, and they bore into hers, freezing her to the spot.
"Ever since that party, I haven’t been able to get you out of my mind."
At her suspicious look, he continued. "I'm not handing you a line, Ava." He shrugged. "But I was engaged at the time and you were married. I may be a lot of things, but I don’t carry on with married women."
Ava’s heart fluttered. Oh he was good, very good. Elena re-filled his glass, but it was Ava who took it, lifted it high to toast him, and took a sip. Her throat burned as the liquor made its way down her throat and added to the fire in her pussy. She faced him once again.
"You’re hitting on me, aren’t you?"
"Yes I am. And guess what?" She shook her head as he placed one muscled arm on her thigh.
The warmth of his flesh penetrated the fabric of her dress and Ava hoped he hadn’t felt her shiver. Her nipples began to ache and the place between her legs grew moist.
"All I could think of since I've been here is what would it be like to have your gorgeous legs wrapped around me while I fuck you. I’m a man who says what he means. And I mean to have you, tonight, now, anywhere, you name it."

Ava flushed heat. Had he just said he wanted to fuck her? Yes, he had. So now what should she do.
Am I so desperate that I'm actually considering having sex with a virtual stranger? Have I lost my mind?
Her hand flew to her chest. "I think you're serious."
Shane nodded. "Yes, I am." He leaned in, his whisper, seductive. "Want to know what I think? I think you’re wet right now. I bet you're wearing a thong, maybe a sexy garter belt. My mouth is watering just thinking about what's under that dress. Are your nipples hard? I could make them harder with my mouth. Just the thought of sucking you has me so stiff I can hardly move."
He demonstrated by placing his hand over hers and sliding it discreetly over the hardened bulge in his jeans. He was long and thick. Ava swallowed. Solid, firm, like the rest of him. Her attempt to maintain her balance failed miserably.
"I'm getting the impression you want me too or you would have either slapped me or kicked me out of your bar by now."
Smart, as well as sexy. "You’re right."
Was she going crazy? Could she actually be contemplating taking him up on his invitation? Tall, charming and delicious he might be, but he was also younger than her by at least ten years.
It doesn’t seem to be bothering him. He's just being nice to you and probably feels sorry for you on your birthday, that’s all.
Still, amidst all her doubts, her body gravitated toward him. She wanted that gorgeous mouth of his sucking on her throbbing clit. Her blood raced through her veins as she imagined his cock buried deep inside her, making her scream with pleasure.
She was hot and flushed, and he raised an eyebrow, as if waiting for her answer. Go for it, Ava.
End your birthday with a bang.
She took a deep breath and swallowed hard. "Are you asking me to be bad, Shane?"
His lips curved into a sexy confident smile. "I'd be willing to bet that when you're bad, you're very very good."
He moved his body slightly, and Ava nearly missed the way he'd worked one long limb between her legs. She was suddenly aware of the ensuing quiet surrounding her.
The word 'no' never entered her foggy, lust filled mind. "Okay."
He led her to the tiny table for two in the shadows of the bar, sat so close to her their thighs touched. He placed one arm around her shoulder, the touch so commanding that Ava shivered with anticipation.
Why not.
"I hope you’re not driving home in your condition?" He interrupted her thoughts, concern clear in his voice."No, I live close by..
He didn’t smile. His gaze bore into hers, intense, as if one track minded. "I want to be with you Ava, tonight."
Oh God, what a line. "I’m not that drunk, you know," she whispered, held captive now by his intense blue gaze that sent white hot shivers down her belly to her center. His nostrils flared slightly.
"Exactly how, um, tipsy are you?"
She couldn’t help but smile. "Maybe a little bit. Do you often succeed with this sort of come on? Or do you keep choosing clichés until some unwilling woman falls into your clutches?"
He was undeterred by her smug replies and leaned in so close she could smell the scotch on his breath. God, he's so sexy.
"I have another one," he was still, very close to her, and Ava was mesmerized by his stillness, the intensity of his eyes, the heat of his body.
She tilted her head. "Let's hear it."
"Let me take you away from all this."
"Are you my Prince Charming, coming to rescue me on your white horse?"
His lips curved, his voice lowered to a sexy growl. "You don’t need a horse to ride, princess."
He nuzzled her and, his breath warm on her neck, and she exhaled sharply. The game had become a test of wills, and she leaned away from him.
"I don’t know you," she murmured, hoping he didn’t notice the nervousness in her voice.
"Yes, you do. It’s been," he made a point of looking at his watch, "nearly ten minutes since you bought me a drink."
One large, lazy hand traveled its way up until it stopped just short of the Promised Land.
Don’t stop."What do you want from me?"
If he moved even an inch, she’d come.
" I’m seducing you. How am I doing?"
She nodded, her breath catching in her throat. "Actually, very well."
His whisper lifted a lone strand of hair from her face. "I’ve come to one conclusion."
She held her breath. "And that is--?"
"I want to push you up against a wall, lift your dress, and bury my fingers in your hot, wet pussy.
I want to go down on you until you come. I want you to go down on me and make me scream."
He licked her ear, and chuckled when she shivered. "And I want to push my cock so far into your pussy, you'll bite your lips so no one will hear you cry out my name. Are you game, Ava? Are you willing to take a chance.
She swallowed and looked at him. Say no, and go home. Even though you’ve had a miserable day, don’t take a chance on a stranger.
"Yes."
He leaned in just enough for his breath to touch her mouth, and he kissed her again, his tongue teasing hers, making her tremble with want.
"So, where can we be alone?”
"I have an apartment upstairs."
"No."
Ava wanted to cry. Shane finally noticed her extra pounds and regretted his planned seduction. Her heart sank to her stilettos, until she felt him take her by the hand.
"I can’t wait that long."
Ava had just enough time to look back at Elena, who winked wickedly. "There's that's room in the back that's empty." The pretty barmaid pointed the way.
Ava opened her mouth, yet no words came forth. No, they couldn’t go in there. That room was for…
Before she completed her thought, she found herself being led to a part of the bar that was under renovation. A.J. was turning an old storage space into a game room. The area was empty except for the brand new pool table in the center of the room, sitting under a rectangular tiffany lamp.
Shane closed and locked the door behind them. He lifted her effortlessly and placed her on the green felt surface of the pool table.

Guest Blogger - Nina Pierce

Please give a warm welcome to our guest today - Nina Pierce. She's giving you a taste of her newest release from Ellora's Cave and look for details on her contest at the bottom!

Thanks for joining us today!







It’s all in the Fantasy
by Nina Pierce

When I first sat down to write erotic romance three years ago, I had this preconceived idea that I should follow the guidelines for all sexually explicit material that I had encountered up to that point. You know the ones with the big busted ladies, several of them in fact, opening every orifice available and fawning over ONE man … umm, yeah, that would be porn.

And though I did manage to finagle a pretty damn good love story out of the notion of multiple women with a man, I realized very quickly that erotic romance has nothing to do with men’s fantasies and everything to do with women’s fantasies. Those of you in the know are thinking “well, dur, Nina … it’s women who read romance”. Okay, well, I was a little slow out of the starting gate, but I totally understand now.

Women who pick up erotica not only want a wonderful love story with a hunky hero and a kick-ass heroine—they want the fantasy. And it’s different for every one of us. Some women fantasize about being naked in public which may or may not include sex in public. Some like the idea of multiple male partners focused solely on them while still others may enjoy their men to get it on as well. Then there is the dominant fantasy, either dominating or being dominated.

There is a myriad of combinations for the erotic romance author to explore.

So what has drawn you to the erotic romance genre?

My most recent erotic romance book “Maid for Master”, explores the fantasy of bondage and submission. Claire Calderwood knew she’d never truly been satisfied in the bedroom, but a weekend trip to an adult resort opens her eyes to her dark desires and new possibilities …

BLURB:
When lust and deception collide, will her complete submission be enough to bind their hearts?

Treat herself to a carnal weekend at the hedonistic retreat, XTC Resorts? That’s not something Claire Calderwood, a three-time loser in the relationship department would ordinarily do. But at forty-one, having a successful cleaning business is no longer enough. She wants a chance to let go of all responsibility, submit to a stranger’s sexual demands and satisfy her darkest fantasies.

Jonathon Brierton has known his best friend’s sister long enough to recognize her submissive nature. He would like nothing more than to have Claire bound naked and at the mercy of his flogger as he teaches her the sensual art of obeying her Master. At thirty-something, he’s a successful real estate developer, owner of a BDSM resort—and hopelessly in love with the older woman.

When Claire follows him to his resort, Jonathon is certain he can keep his identity secret long enough to convince her that being restrained in his stocks is something that will satisfy them both. But lies, deceit and broken hearts may not be so easy to overcome.

EXCERPT:
Claire Calderwood had fantasized about being a sexual slave to a man’s desires for a long time now. She’d even taken the time to buy a couple of books on the D/s lifestyle. Those few times she’d tried to communicate her desires to her partners had turned into nothing more than mindless rutting that had left her feeling empty and used. Being tied to a bed while her boyfriend satisfied his fantasies wasn’t the same as the give and take of consensual passion happening below.

Her hope had been to share this weekend with her fiancé so they could both learn from the experience of others. But Claire understood better than most that plans had a way of disintegrating dreams.

How she’d managed to let her baby brother’s best friend talk her into keeping her plans still baffled her. Adjusting the butterfly mask, she cast a quick glance around. Claire wasn’t sure she’d survive if she ran into Jonny here at the fetish club of all places. She hoped he was neck-deep in some hot tub with a good-looking co-ed. Goodness knows, she didn’t know what she’d say if he found her strutting around in the barely there leather bra and skirt and heavy knee-high biker boots she’d found in her closet. She would be mortified if he told Ryan of her foolishness. Surely, she’d never hear the end of it. But this vacation wasn’t about her brother Ryan, Jonny or her fiancé or anything else she’d left behind in Indiana. It was about Claire and giving herself permission to let loose and give in to her fantasies.

Throwing her shoulders back, Claire forced away the gloomy thoughts and turned her attention back to the dungeon. A man hung face-up by a series of knotted ropes. His arms and legs were stretched wide, exposing his torso and genitals to tempting possibilities. Clamps had earlier been applied to his nipples and inner thighs, and a plug inserted in his rectum. He had remained suspended and blindfolded, only able share the woman’s pleasure and pain through her cries of ecstasy. Now two Doms maneuvered a pulley system, lowering him to waist level. Strong hands stroked over sensitive flesh. His cock and balls, restrained in a tight leather harness, swelled against its bindings, anticipation putting everyone on the edge of their seats.

“Are you enjoying the show?”

A male voice, thick and rich as honeyed molasses shivered down her spine. When Claire attempted to turn, he pressed into her back. His face nestled against her neck so that only a whisper separated his lips from the shell of her ear.

“Don’t turn. Just answer. Are. You. Enjoying. The. Show?”

He spoke softly, each word enunciated clearly. It was such a simple question and delivered with such intensity, Claire could barely fill her lungs. The hard planes of his chest pressed against her. Muscular thighs ran along the back of her legs and against her ass. Gooseflesh rose where his breath caressed her neck. It was all she could do not to lean into the man.

“I… Well… I…”

“Yes. Or. No?”

Power buffeted her but didn’t smother. Rather than drowning, Claire felt swaddled in the absolute security of this man. Her nipples steepled, pressing hard against zippers running along the soft leather cup of her bra. And when she inhaled to speak, the clean scent of soap and fresh air filled her nose. “Yes.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~
Buy link: http://www.jasminejade.com/ps-9001-50-maid-for-master.aspx

**Giveaway** Nina’s giving away a box full of goodies, including her erotic suspense novel, “Healer’s Garden” to a random commenter from all the blogs she visits during her tour between Jan 17 and Jan 25.

Nina Pierce is an award-winning author of erotic romance. Her stories fall in all genres from contemporary to paranormal. When she’s not sitting at her computer creating stories of lust and love, she’s spending time with her real life hero and husband of twenty-six years, her three adult children and a menagerie of aging pets. You can keep up with all her latest books on her website (http://www.ninapierce.com/) or her blog (http://www.NinaPierce.com/blog) or follow her on twitter (http://www.twitter.com/ninapierce) and facebook (http://www.facebook.com/nina.pierce)

TGIF

It’s Friday and I can’t be happier. It’s been a busy week at work and I need the three days off to get caught up on some writing.
The stress is coming out in my dreams. Last night I had a dream the DH and I were in bed SLEEPING. It was morning and Brian Austin Green jumped in between us. I immediately jumped out and panicked because in my dream I couldn’t have sex. Also the DH climbed out because he was sick and didn’t want to infect anyone. I know for certain the idea of being with a man doesn’t appeal to him.
Why am I dreaming of a threesome? It’s not my sexual preference and then why with an actor? Not my thing either. That’s just one example of my crazy dreams lately.
Whenever I share them with my DH or kids they just shake their heads. I’m sure they’re thinking WTF. I’m thinking it too! Most are creepy and scary. I’m to the point where I don’t want to sleep. My dreams are freakin’ me out.
Why am I sharing this? I have no idea. LOL Maybe someone will have some insight to why I’m having these dreams.
My editor returned All or Nothing asking for a few SMALL alterations before she sends it off to the powers that be. All were in the first ten pages, so I sent back bright and early.
Now I need to finish Love Revisited. UGH! I wish I could clone myself.
Have a great weekend!

Snow Day

Today I’m chatting over at Love Romances Café from 1-3pm EST. if you’re around drop in and share some excerpts or just say hello. It’s my first chat of this year. I’ve decided it’s time to put myself out there even a little bit. So this year I’ll have one a quarter at LRC.
The schools are closed again today to give the state more time to clear the roads. I took advantage of the snow day and slept until almost 7:30. Late for me. :o) It felt good though. Truthfully, I’m ready to climb back into bed. Too much to do.
I forgot to fill out my cover art request for All or Nothing, so I’ll be doing that today. I have a short I’m writing that has a 2/1 deadline, so I need to work on that today too. Let’s not forget the day job – which will be full of conference calls. Looking forward to the long weekend.
Off to check things off my to do list!
Happy Thursday!

Winter Wonderland

It’s happening again. Another winter storm. I woke at 2am to snow falling pretty heavily. Of course I climbed back into bed until 4. ;) There was a good six inches on the ground by then.
Our son generously stayed the night to help the DH with shoveling today. What a good kid. His work announced they’d be closed today as is most of RI. So, today in between working the day job, I’ll be making hot chocolate and keeping the guys warm.
In other news: I keep track of the news local to the town I come from back in Upstate New York on a daily basis. This morning as I was reading the news I was surprised to learn they will be charging some high school teens with cyber bullying. It’s the first case since cyber bullying became a crime. I for one I’m pleased to see this happening. These girls allegedly are circulating sexual pics of another girl and saying nasty things about her. All on Facebook. The police were able to have the Facebook pages shut down until the investigation is complete.
There’s a very good chance I know the parents of these teens and I do feel sorry for them, but they’re obviously not keeping track of what their children are doing online. As a parent it’s their responsibility. My daughter was a target of cyber bullying. I went to the parent and threatened to get the police involved. The girl stopped immediately. I gave them their ONE and only chance. If it happens again you can bet your sweet ass I’ll have the police involved. Cross me once I may forgive you. Cross me twice, let’s just say I’m a Scorpio and I don’t forgive easily. Sweet little Amber has an evil side. LOL
In writing news, tomorrow I’m over at Love Romances Café yahoo group for a chat from 1-3pm EST. It’s my first of the New Year, so if you’re around drop in and say hi!
Happy Wednesday.

And So It Begins

It’s Monday again. The start of another work week. This weekend I spent quietly for the most part. I did go to my writer’s meeting and mingled with writers. A much needed time for this lonely profession.
I worked hard on two wips and made great headway. I can see the end in sight for both.
I got this funny clip from one of my loops and thought I’d share it with you today.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAG39jKi0lI
Today I must get the proper paperwork filled out for my contracted story All or Nothing. I sent Chasing Forever off to a new publishing house last Friday. This week I’m working hard on editing my Contemporary Romance for my agent/editor appointments.
The NEC conference is offering a great deal. If you signed up early you could send the agent and/or editor of your choice 10 pages of your manuscript for them to read prior to your appointment. In my opinion this is awesome. It will make the time spent with the agent/editor go smoother. At least I hope!
Hope you have a Happy Monday!

Rock and Rolling!

Yesterday got away from me. I was lost in edits and didn’t come up for air much. When I finally finished close to five I figured I’d skip blogging. I’d missed most of the day already, anyway.
All or Nothing is off to my editor. This one is already contracted so I don’t have to bite my nails wondering if I’ll get a contract. I have to worry they’ll think it sucks! lol
Today I’ll be working on Chasing Forever. Once I finish editing that I’ll be getting things ready for taxes. Time to gather all the paperwork so that when it comes time we’re ready. There’s a lot to do. I always swear I’ll do it quarterly so that when January rolls around it isn’t so bad, but I never do. That’s where the procrastinator in me, comes in to play. Drives me nuts! And the DH. LOL
Snow is being predicted here in the Northeast. Go figure, right. Winter + Northeast = Lots of snow. I have four wheel drive and where I come from in Upstate New York, snowstorms are a fact of life. Twenty-six inches of snow fell one Christmas night and I had to drive to work the next day. At that time I didn’t have four wheel drive. I’m game for anything! Okay, maybe I’m a tad crazy too. As long as I don’t have to shovel it I’m great.
I’m hoping they don’t cancel my writer’s meeting. I need to get out of the house and be around other writers. I always come home refreshed and ready to go
Other than that I plan to finish my current wip by next Friday and have it off to my EC editor. I can’t believe it’s been almost six months since I submitted anything to her. I can’t let that much time go by! I guess if I’m stuck in the house it will give me more time for writing.
How about you? Anything fun planned for the weekend?

Edits and Reviews

I’m still plugging away on my new to-do list for the week. Lots of edits…too many edits.

I received two fantastic reviews. Night Owl gave my Cougar Challenge book, Gettin’ Lucky 4.50/5 and reviewer top pick! YAY.

http://www.nightowlreviews.com/nor/Reviews/Gabrielle-reviews-Gettin-Lucky-by-Amber-Skyze.aspx

Miz Love Loves Books reviewed Dante’s Desire. These ladies have some terrific books on their blog!
http://mizlovelovesbooks.blogspot.com/2011/01/dantes-desire-by-amber-skyze.html

Production!

That’s the name of the game for me this week. I have a lot of catching up to do and this is the week. I’ve managed to get the non fiction article written and will send that off to the editor in a few days. I want to let it sit so I can make sure there aren’t any mistakes.
I’m back to writing. I started a new book, tentatively titled Just Another Rainy Day. It’s about a husband and wife who enjoy a playful rainy day while the children are away. I’m planning to submit this to EC by the end of the month for their Exotika line. Bondage and submission will be the theme of the day here!
I’m knee-deep in edits for All or Nothing my Loose Id contracted book. After that I have one other story to edit for a new to me publishing house. I wrote the story after being approached by a good friend to contribute to a series. More details on that as they progress.
So a busy day awaits me.

Happy Tuesday!

It's A Wrap!

2010 that is. I’m happy to see 2010 go and excited about all the possibilities 2011 holds. This morning as I woke at the end of my vacation I was happy, truly happy. It’s the first time in a long time I can say that. I’m not sure why, but I’m running with it.
Today will be a busy day as I get back into the work swing of things. I’m writing again and that’s a plus.
I’ll be sending out my newsletter later today so if you’re interested in subscribing and winning prizes sign up over on the right. :o)
Over the weekend I read Nice Package by Katalina Leon. If you haven’t read it – run over to Ellora’s Cave and get yourself a copy. You won’t be disappointed.
I’d like to wish my dear friend Marie Rose Dufour a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Happy Monday!