IT'S A?????

I don’t know yet, but we’re hoping we can find out at our appointment today! I know Molly is disappointed that we want to know, but in all honesty you can’t buy neutral stuff anymore. It’s not like when I had children 13 yrs ago. Now the only colors the stores carry are pink and blue. This frustrates me. I don’t need everything to be one or the other. I like yellow and green too. I finally got back to writing this morning. I’ve been suffering from another head cold and it’s worn me down. I plan on reading Pampering Jessica today, written by the lovely Tessie Bradford. The Northeast is expecting another snow storm…luckily this one will miss us! YAY!!!! Doing the happy dance. I’m thinking about opening the pool, not shoveling snow! Happy Thursday.

Not 1 But 4 Must Reads

There are 4 friends who have a release today. All 4 are MUST READS. Here's a taste of all of them.

Return to Delight:

Harley June Baker left Delight thinking never to return, but when circumstances draw her back to this tiny town and straight into Cooper’s strong arms, she knows she’s in deep trouble. The man she’d loved and left behind is now one sexy devil-in-denim and hotter than a Texas summer night. With his every wicked touch throwing her senses into overdrive, how could any sane woman resist? Cooper Dobbs is a man on a mission. He let Harley get away once, but never again. Knowing it’s time to burn up some sheets with the delectable woman, Cooper plies her with a raw, savage passion that threatens to incinerate them both. It’s gonna take plenty of panty-drenching sex and a fair amount of sweet-talkin’ to make Harley his, but Cooper reckons he’s up to the challenge.

Inflamed:

Stuck in a rut in every way possible, Keri decides her first step in a bid for change is moving back to the Texas home she left years ago. The second step? Spicing up her sex life with the crazy-hot cowboys she left behind. Too responsible (and smart) to touch her way back when, Max and Shaw filled Keri’s hottest teen dreams. Now she’s older, wiser—and more than ready to make up for lost time. Max and Shaw were always fond of Keri, but the stunning woman strutting back into their lives is a far cry from the serious, studious teen they remember. She wants to take a walk on the racy side—with both of them—and the cowboys are only too happy to oblige. As they suspected, the sex is explosive, though Max and Shaw aren’t sure Keri can really handle everything they have to give. Nor do they know if she can handle the sexy secret they’ve yet to divulge.

Pampering Jessica:

Blurb: David has been planning Jessica’s birthday weekend for months. His wife of almost twenty five years is having issues with turning fifty and he vows to do everything in his power to remind her how incredible she is and how much he loves her. Jessica’s birthday wish is to spend quality alone time with the man of her dreams, her husband. When David presents her with a gold gift bag full of sensual surprises, Jessica is more than eager to enjoy every one of them. What she doesn’t realize is that her husband has much more in store for her special celebration.

The Bastard's Passionate Prize: A bastard. A woman he should not want. A man enslaved. A woman captured. Both, captured by pirates and taken to an exotic citadel. Made to perform for a pasha as salacious as he is blood-thirsty.

Guest Interview - Alyssa Lyons

Please give a warm welcome to my special guest Alyssa Lyons.

Alyssa Lyons, like her character Jordan Davis, lives in Lynchburg, Virginia. The South is her playground. Its eccentricities fuel her stories. She specializes in “Solving Crimes Southern Style.” However, unlike Jordan, she is a cat person—rather she is staff to two cats she rescued. Like most cats, they believe they were the ones doing the saving and therefore she owes them. She taught high school American history and government, worked for the CIA and is a retired attorney. Or as she is fond of saying, “I am a recovering attorney.” How did you start your writing career? After years of reading books in my favorite genres, it occurred to me I could do better, so I wrote a romance novel. Then lined the litter box that first copy and started rewriting, and rewriting and writing. Once they no longer were kitty litter liners, I bought a book on how to get a romance novel published, began to gather submission guidelines, submit over the transom, and collect rejection letters. Finally, I submitted to small press which is a better fit for my outside-the-box stories. Does travel play in the writing of your books? Not in the first two books of the Jordan Davis Mystery series. Last Wishes, which is available now, and Clubbed to Death, released in May 2011, take place in and around Lynchburg, Virginia. But the third book in the series, Stabbed and Slabbed, which will be released mid-summer 2011, takes place on a honeymoon cruise from hell. Tell us about your current release. Last Wishes: Jordan Davis Mysteries Book 1, published by Black Opal Books. Jordan Davis obeys the law when it suits her. Right now isn’t one of those times. She knows someone is out to kill women in her hometown. Could the killer be sexy Judge Grayson Trent? Or is he Jordan’s only chance of uncovering the real murderer. Tell us about your next release. Clubbed to Death: Jordan Davis Mysteries Book 2, released mid May 2011. Newly minted private detective Jordan Davis, and her new partner, her lover Gray's mother, take on a murder case—proving Jordan’s half-sister innocent of killing the President of the Junior League. As Jordan gets closer to discovering the truth, the killer is determined to see her dead and recover those three kids she and Gray are hiding. Where do you research for your books? No surprise, the Internet is a great source of factoids and details that add color, but I also travel around Lynchburg, taking photos and collecting brochures. Then too, my husband is a Lynchburg native, and his 100-year-old mother lives with us and knows where all the bodies are buried, because she’s been to all the funerals. And trust me, she loves to talk. At her age, secrets are no longer secret. Who are your books published with? The Jordan Davis Mystery series is published by Black Opal Books. They’re wonderful to work with and have great editors. And believe me when I say you are edited—three times. Their website is: http://www.blackopalbooks.com/ Do you use a pen name? If so, how did you come up with it? Yes, Alyssa Lyons is a pen name. Since I write so close to home, I prefer to keep my identity private rather than risk being ridden out of town on a rail. And if you know anything about Lynchburg, you’ll realize this is the truth, especially given I skewer all the sacred cows. What are your favorite TV shows? I like police procedurals such as The Closer, CSI, Bones, Law & Order, Criminal Minds, and Forensic Files. I also like The Big Bang Theory because it has some of the best writing on TV. I also love White Collar, Leverage, and Burn Notice. Do you have any suggestions for beginning writers? If so, what are they? Study the market. Read extensively in the genre you want to write. I can’t tell you how many aspiring writers I’ve met who thinks they can write and sell in a genre they don’t ever read. And write. Get your manuscript finished. Unless you’re writing non-fiction, you’ll have trouble marketing an unfinished manuscript. And polish your basic grammar and spelling skills. I have worked as an editor and it shocks me how many writers have no idea about proper punctuation—particularly the use of commas—the use ellipses in lieu of commas, and the use of a homophone or malaprop instead of the word intended. Tell us about your favorite fan letter you have received. I have two. I got a letter once from a fan who chastised me because she started reading one of my books at 10pm to help her sleep and was still up reading it at 4am because it kept her so involved. My second one came from a man. He said I was one of the few female writers who really knew how to write me. Alyssa’s Blog & website: http://www.alyssalyons.com/ Read an excerpt from Last Wishes: http://www.alyssalyons.com/?page_id=32

Monday Again

I always dread going back to work after a good weekend. This weekend was one of those that I didn’t want to end. The DH and I had a good time. We went shopping for baby stuff for my sister in laws baby shower. Funny how excited he got over shopping. I know he’s excited about this baby, but is afraid too. He wanted to buy stuff for us, but we don’t know what we’re having until the end of the week, so we didn’t. He embarrassed me more times than I’d like to admit over the weekend, though that’s part of his charm. I did little writing. I just didn’t feel like it. We spent some time with family and on our own. It was a nice even balance. Walking the dogs at the park became an adventure I’d rather forget about. I thought we were going to get arrested, but thankfully all turned out okay in the end. I can just imagine the conversation with my kids to come bail us out. I’m sure that wouldn’t go over well. LOL Overall it was fun, but now it’s back to reality. Back to the darn day job and trying to find new magazines to write for. I learned that one magazine I write for regularly will be ceasing publication in May. Bummer because I really like this magazine and believed it what it stood for. Oh and of course back to the wip! How did ya’ll spend your weekend? Did you do anything fun?

Three Wicked Writers Plus Two

Today I'm guesting blogging please drop in and say hello! http://threewickedwriters.blogspot.com/2011/03/welcome-our-guestamber-skyze.html

Best Friends Share Everything - Miranda Stowe

Okay, while Miranda Stowe isn't new to the publishing world, she is new to the erotic romance genre. When she announced she had a new release coming out the same day as me I anxiously awaited her blog informing everyone of the information on where to get the book.

I rushed over and bought a copy. I like supporting new authors as much as ones who have been around a long time. New authors though, need word of mouth.

I remember when my first book came out. I kept wondering why would anyone want to read a book by an unknown? (I still ask what keeps my readers coming back for more), but I'm not complaining. I love you guys and gals!

Anyway, I went over to Whispers Publishing and downloaded a copy. You could've knocked me over with a feather when I read the dedication. I was one of three authors Miranda dedicated her book to. How awesome. I decided to start reading the book right then and there. 45 mins later I finished it. It was fantastic. The heroes were yummy and the heroine was a woman you could relate to.

I'm highly recommending this story to all you who love menages....you won't be disappointed.

Here's a taste and when you're done reading it hop over HERE to purchase your copy!

Blurb:

It all started as one big misunderstanding. Jessie Sawyer’s boyfriend, Devin, gave her a key to his apartment and she merely wanted to thank him in a jazzy, make-your-wet-dreams-come-true kind of way. She had no idea his roommate, Conner, would come home so early and catch her posing in her new lingerie…with her hand between her legs. But what begins as one huge, mortifying experience soon turns into the most memorable, pleasurable night of her life when Devin finally shows up and neither man wants her to leave.

Excerpt:

Best Friends Share Everything by Miranda Stowe

Devin considered falling face first onto his couch and passing out there for the rest of the night. But when he opened the door to his apartment, nearly plowing over two people as he pushed it inward, he jerked to a surprised stop.
His roommate grinned and his girlfriend gawked as he paused in the threshold. “Jessie?” he uttered, suddenly wide awake. The sight of her fresh, sweet face could always perk him to immediate attention. “What’re you doing here?” The he frowned at his bud. “Conner? I thought you had a date tonight.”
“I think I do,” Conner drawled as a slow smile curved up his sensuous mouth. His gaze veered meaningfully to the woman standing between them. “With you two.”
For a second, Devin frowned, confused. Then he glanced at Jessie. The pink flushing her cheeks made his jaw drop. “Oh my God,” he gasped. “You’re shitting me? A threesome? Really?” He began to grin until reality struck him. Wait, this was Jessie they were talking about. Miss Vanilla.
“Baby, are you sure?” he asked, stepping toward her and cupping her face. “I don’t want you to do anything you don’t want to do.”
She was the sweetest girl he’d ever dated. Generous and giving. She always had a ready smile whenever she saw him. But she was pure old school and he had no problem being a good boy with her because she made him feel amazing without all the kinky, adventurous stuff. But if she was willing to step out of her comfort zone—for him—then who was he to turn her down?
“This would be, like, the best surprise ever,” he murmured, pressing his forehead to hers. “But I know it’s not something you’ve ever done before.” He tried to swallow down his hopes, but his cock kept growing in his jeans.
Jessie’s big blue eyes were wide as she licked her lips. “I…” She was definitely uncertain. He didn’t want to press, but damn, he and his roommate knew how to orchestrate a fucking awesome threesome.
“Is this what you want?” she hedged.
“Here,” Conner’s husky voice broke in. Stepping close behind her, he gently took hold of Jessie’s wrist and drew it down to Devin’s zipper. “Does this answer your questions?” When he pressed her hand against Dev’s crotch, the warmth of her palm soaked through thick denim. He shuddered, and his dick twitched and swelled larger under her trembling fingers.
With a gasp, Jessie’s jaw dropped, but instead of tugging away, she tightened her hold around the bulge and began to knead him. “You really do want it, don’t you?”
“You’ll love it,” he coaxed. “I promise. We won’t do anything you don’t want us to.”
She bit her lip; temptation swirled in her eyes. She opened her mouth, but no words came out.
“I think she needs a little more coaxing,” Conner said.
Jess jumped and let out a yelp of surprise when Conner’s arms slid around her waist and then up her ribcage to cup two large hands over her breasts while he simultaneously bent his head to the side and kissed her neck through her hair. Though the intoxicating sight of those masculine hands loving Jessie’s perfect feminine breasts had Devin grinding his hips deeper into her hand, he hissed through his teeth, “Con. Don’t rush her. Remember, she’s never done this before.”
“She can take it,” Conner growled, nuzzling his nose through the locks of her hair until he found a warm patch a skin and nipped his teeth at the side of her throat. Damn, Devin knew exactly what that sweet skin tasted like and exactly how wonderful Conner’s mouth felt on bare flesh.

Just Another Rainy Day

YAY! Today is release day for me. It's my first for 2011 and I'm excited. I had a lot of fun writing this story and hope you will have fun reading it!

Here's a little taste of what you'll find between the covers.

Buy it here: Just Another Rainy Day

Blurb:

Tired of their ho-hum sex life, Jack decides to spice things up by planning a surprise for his wife. After sending the children off for an overnight with their aunt, Jack handcuffs Beth to their bed.

Beth awakes naked, blindfolded and at the mercy of her husband. The day starts off with being fed by Jack and quickly turns into hot and heavy sex. She soon learns that a slip of the tongue can lead to stinging ass cheeks.

This rainy day will be spent pushing their sexual limits. Whether in bed or out, Jack will leave Beth begging for more—until she says something unforgiveable.

By reading any further, you are stating that you are at least 18 years of age. If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary to exit this site.
An Excerpt From: JUST ANOTHER RAINY DAY
Copyright © AMBER SKYZE, 2011
All Rights Reserved, Ellora's Cave Publishing, Inc.
Chapter One

“Rise and shine, sleepyhead.”
Beth opened her eyes to total darkness. She attempted to move, but found her arms were pulled above her head. Around her wrists was soft fur. She tugged and the rattling sound of chains filled her ears. She was restrained. Fear spread throughout her body and into her throat.
“Why am I handcuffed?” As she tried to sit up she realized she was also blindfolded. Never in their fifteen years of marriage had she woken to find herself trussed like a slave or prisoner.
The smell of bacon wafted closer, assaulting her nostrils.
“I’m going to fuck that pussy all day long.”
Beth moved her head to the left where Jack’s voice echoed through the room. She shivered. The thought of him fucking her all day sent chills down her spine, until reality came crashing back.
“What about the kids? Surely they’ll want Mom to cook them breakfast and drive them all over God’s creation.”
“All taken care of. I just sent them packing with Auntie. They’ll be home tomorrow bright and early.”
How long had she’d slept? She knew she was exhausted when she fell into bed the night before, but to sleep through the kids waking and Jack shackling her to the bed wasn’t like her.
“Did you spike my drink last night, Jack?”
A full belly laugh filled the room. “I’d hardly do something so sinister.”
He had a point. In all their marriage he’d never even spoken an ill word against her. Why should she accuse him of something so hideous?
“How did you manage to handcuff me to the bed?”
“You were snoring peacefully. I moved your arms without getting a peep out of you. You barely stirred.”
Beth racked her brains trying to remember any feeling of being moved around, but nothing came to mind.
“Clever, Jack, now uncuff me please.”
“No can do.”
“Huh? Please, Jack. My arms can only take so much of being stretched like this. I’d like you to release me, now.”
“Remember your prisoner fantasy?”
How could she forget? She’d told him about the fantasy eons ago. They’d been enjoying a glass of white wine on a cold winter’s night. They’d nestled all cozy in front of the fireplace. As they gazed into the glowing embers, she had shared her deepest darkest desires. Beth had told him how she wanted to feel as if she’d been kidnapped, taken away and tortured in every delicious way imaginable. Jack had listened quietly and nodded at the appropriate times. She’d explained that she pictured herself in the shower after a long day. A stranger would appear and pull her soaking wet from the streaming water. He’d carry her to her bedroom where he’d take what he wanted. He’d ignore her pleas for him to stop. He’d fuck her until they were both sated.
She’d thought he’d forgotten by now. Obviously he had been biding his time.
“Is this what is happening today? You’re living out my fantasy?” A slight shiver passed through her body. Jack had listened. He’d taken her seriously and decided to give her what she needed.
“We are and I’m in control. You will do as I say or suffer the consequences.”
Beth shook as a chill of delight filled her. Jack’s voice was deep and demanding. He was using his dominant tone.
“Got it.” A secret smile filled her soul.

Busy

I’ve been busying writing and neglecting the blog. I’ve added almost 4k to my wip in the last two days. The plan was to wake up early and add another 1500, but I overslept. When I say I overslept I mean I only had 15 mins to get my daughter up and to the bus stop so she wouldn’t be late. Not that she cared because with most teens she sleeps until the very last second. Ugh!
I was hoping to finish this wip – Looking Thru the Glass by the 31st, but I’m thinking it will more likely be the first week in April. No biggie, but I have this pesky heroine from another book harassing me to write her story. The worst part is she’s wielding a sledge hammer and I don’t want to mess with her. I want her to get all her frustrations out on the kitchen cabinets she’s hell bent on destroying! LOL
Tomorrow is release day for me. I’m excited. I had fun writing this quickie and I hope you all enjoy it! :o)
So off to write a blog for my visit to Three Wicked Writers this Sunday and if all goes according to plan – HA! I’ll add more to my wip.
Happy Thursday!

Guest Interview - Terry Campbell

Blurb:

She’s from the twenty-first century...Thrust back in time, Frankie Mathews is the quintessential fish out of water. She’s gone from running a major money market fund to a world where women milk cows. Too bad for Frankie that the nearest she’s ever been to a cow is a “Got Milk” commercial. Now, she has to save the life a Confederate Colonel Benjamin Craig and return to her own century with him in tow, before she changes history beyond recognition—and gets killed in the process.

He’s been fighting the Civil War in 1864...To survive the Union deserters and his grasping, widowed sister-in-law, Ben needs Frankie’s quick thinking and never-give-up attitude that comes from her independence as a 21st Century woman.

But can the two lovers span the centuries between them and find a common future.

Please give a warm welcome to my special guest Terry Campbell!

Tell us about your favorite character from your books.

It’s so hard to choose one. They’re all so different and unique in their own ways. My favorite heroine? Probably Lindsey in Fat Chance. She’s sassy, defiant, and hysterical, from her eating escapades to her clashes with the hero as well as his assistant, Marie. Frankie in Craigs’ Legacy is running neck-and-neck with Lindsey. She’s a thoroughly modern heroine with a chip on her shoulder from being pushed back into the nineteenth century where all her inadequacies are highlighted. Oh, Lordy, let Ben, the hero, push me back with him to any time he wants.

Where do you dream of traveling to and why?

To other worlds and other times so I can experience things I could never do by visiting other parts of the United States or abroad. That’s why I’m such an eclectic reader, sampling women’s fiction, romantic comedy, mystery/suspense, fantasy and science fiction. Um, I plan to go where no spacecraft or long travel time are required. Beam me up, Scotty.

Does travel play in the writing of your books?

Not a lot. Most Terry Campbell books take place in one locale. The commonality is that all of them are in the South. Mr. Wrong is in McLean, Virginia. Intimate Investor is in Richmond, Virginia. Fat Chance is in Dickens, Texas—and yes there really is a Dickens, TX. Our new newest release, Craigs’ Legacy is in Goochland, Virginia, both in the present and past.

Tell us about your current release.

Craigs’ Legacy is a time travel. Frankie gets thrown through a time portal and lands in 1864. For a woman who loves indoor plumbing, electricity, and e-mail, she’s a fish out of water. We soon discover Ben is also a fish out of water; he doesn’t want to run the family business but wants to write. How they come together, grow to love one another, and resolve time paradoxes and staying alive made them unique.

Tell us about your next release.

The Slam Sisters of Serendipity will be released in June by Eternal Press. The Slam Sisters are a group of women, ranging in age from their thirties to their mid-fifties, and they play team tennis together. The book is a series of cozy mystery that team solves. In each mystery, one of the team has something at risk, their husband’s freedom, their job, an inheritance. Mary Catherine Lee Grant (MC) is the leader of this group and tells us about the team’s adventures.

Do you have critique partners or beta readers?

Both—doesn’t everyone? If not, you should. You need someone to go through your work for typos and flow as you go along, and after it’s finished, someone needs to beta read it who has never seen the work before.

Who are your books published with?

I have books published by Black Opal Books, L&L Dreamspell, and this summer by Eternal Press. I’ve also brought out my backlist and it’s available on Kindle, Smashwords, and the Nook.

What do you do to unwind and relax?

Have a white wine glass filled with my favorite read, Merlot. Why the white wine glass, it’s larger, and given I only allow myself one, it had better be worth it. (I’m a cheap drunk.) Then I curl up with my wine and a good book. It has become very easy with my Kindle. I got one for Christmas and have died and gone to heaven—easy to read and my husband has no proof I’m going over my monthly limit of books allowed. I mean, he can’t see them so …

Do you have any suggestions for beginning writers? If so, what are they?

Don’t think you’ll be an overnight success. Sure, it occasionally happens, but in most cases those first books you write can make great paper in the bottom of a birdcage. Did I mention the first 100 pages that should be burned? Learning a craft so it flows and uses proper technique takes time, no matter how creative and talented you are. Also, listen to what those in the industry tell you from their experience. While some of it may not be legit, most will be invaluable. Likewise, be willing to share your fresh perspectives and knowledge of other fields.

What would we find under your bed?

New ideas, some slithery and raw, ready to crawl out and fill my brain while I’m asleep. They have to battle for room, though, with the characters waiting to hypnotize me and make suggestions for their roles in subsequent scenes.

Terry thanks for dropping by today. It's been fun interviewing you!

Spring has arrived

Today is a return to the daily grind. It’s dreary outside after a beautiful weekend. The DH and I got a lot done around the house. Things that had to wait because, someone was sick in our house every weekend the last five weeks.
We managed to get to the movies yesterday afternoon. We did see Limitless. I really enjoyed the movie. When it starts out Bradley Cooper is a writer suffering from writer’s block. He’s scraggly, his apartment is a mess and his life is falling apart. I could relate to the writer’s block part. We’ve all suffered from it at some point in our life. I looked to the DH and asked, “Do I look like that?”
There are times when I stay in my pj’s until 5pm or so, but I thought the way they portrayed him was a bit over the top. Hubby reassured me that I wasn’t that bad. LOL
The character took this pill that opened all parts of his brain. He sat down and wrote a book in four days. I immediately wanted this pill! Seriously. I’d love to have the energy to write a full length book in four days. I’d love something that allowed my brain to write for more than 1-2 hours.
Anyway, the two hours flew by and I didn’t check my phone for the time once. So, that’s a good movie to me.
I looked at my calendar this morning and realized the writer’s conference I’m attending is only a month away. NECRWA will be held April 29-30th. I have to get my butt in gear and get my promo together. There isn’t much time.
This week will be busy prepping and getting other writer stuff done, along with the day job which has picked up again.
Happy Spring!

Friday Again!

What a difference a week makes. Last week I was lying in the hospital hooked up to IV’s this week I’m feeling great. The weather is supposed to be close to 70 today. I’ll be sitting on the deck with my work laptop soaking up the sun.
This week was extremely busy with edits, getting my agent proposal out the door and writing. I’d like to finish the book I’m working on by the end of the month. There’s another book itching to be written, but I’m trying to keep the heroine at bay until this one is completed. I hope she cooperates. :o)
It’s Friday. The weekend is supposed to be rain-free so that’s a plus. Hopefully the DH and I will get out of the house. It seems someone has been sick the last five weekends. I’d like to see the new Bradley Cooper movie. The premise looks good and well, he’s just yummy to look at. Robert DeNiro stars in it so it’s got to be good, right?
The countdown begins for my first release of 2011. One week until Just Another Rainy Day will be available from Ellora’s Cave. Woo Hoo.
Hope you have a fabulous weekend!

Release Date

I have a release date for Just Another Rainy Day - March 25th...OMG, that's right around the corner. I've got to get promoting.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Cover Art

Here is my new cover art for Just Another Rainy Day. Seeing as the heroine wakes up handcuffed to her bed I felt this cover was fitting. Yesterday I finished edits on this so hopefully I’ll have a release date soon! :o)
Even though I was deathly sick for four days I was super busy. I finished rounds two and three on All or Nothing. That book finally went to finals. YAY!
I wrote my query letter to the agent I’m meeting with at NECRWA, along with sending off the first 10 pages of my contemporary.
Now I’m waiting not so patiently to hear back on two submissions. One has been out for a month, the other only a week and a half. It doesn’t stop me from checking email compulsively. Lol
Time to do some writing!
Happy Wednesday.

Guest Interview - Berengaria Brown

Please give a warm welcome to my special guest Berengaria Brown!

Does travel play in the writing of your books?
I have several books set in China, as it’s a place I’ve traveled to several times on business. It’s a fascinating country, with awesome traditions, and a culture dating back many thousands of years. The people are so polite and helpful I always enjoy being there.

Who is your favorite author?
Georgette Heyer was the person who introduced me to romance and I adore her historical romances, especially her Regencies. So I guess it’s not surprising I have written a couple Regency-set erotic romances.

When was your first sale?
I had written several books and sent them off each to a different publishing house. My first sale was “Intensity” to Siren BookStrand and I was still Snoopy dancing around the house when just a few days later I received a contract on a second book at a different publisher.

Where do you research for your books?
Research is exactly the same as for non-erotic romance: checking historical and geographical facts, choosing appropriate names and places, cross checking all the details of equipment used and so on. I use the internet mostly and have bookmarked a lot of helpful sites. Writing historicals is the hardest as they take a lot more checking than contemporaries.

Who are your books published with?
I have six books at Siren BookStrand, six at Torquere with another releasing at the end of this month, four at Ellora’s Cave, three at Breathless Press, two at Evernight Publishing with another coming out this month, two at Silver Publishing and one each at Aspen Mountain Press, Logical Lust and Whiskey Creek Torrid.

What do you think makes a good story?
I have to care about the main characters. If I don’t want them to have their happy ending I won’t read the book. Once the characters have engaged me, I like a plot with some humor and suspense.

What books have most influenced your life?
Georgette Heyer introduced me to romance, especially historical romance, and Jaid Black opened my eyes to erotic romance.

What book are you reading now?
“Phantom’s Rest” by Anny Cook. She has the most awesome world building, a light touch with humor, and fun characters, always with unexpected twists.

Amber: I totally agree!!!!!!

What do you do to unwind and relax?
Read. I started out as a reader and I still love to read.
I’m also addicted to chocolate.

Do you have any suggestions for beginning writers? If so, what are they?
Keep reading. Keep writing. Keep polishing your work, and keep submitting. Read the submission guidelines of the publishing house carefully, and abide by them. Only submit to a house that publishes books similar to yours. And good luck!

“Tempting Tenealle”

blurb:
Continuously overwhelmed by an unending inundation of visiting cousins, Tenealle decides the only solution is to buy a bigger apartment. Evan’s selling an apartment that is perfect for her. In fact, Evan and his partner, Faris, are perfect for her. How can she concentrate on renovating an apartment when she’d much rather be in their bedroom?
Evan has inherited his Great Aunt Enid’s apartment and doesn’t want to refurbish it, so is looking for a quick sale, even though his partner, Faris, can see its potential. They both see enormous potential in a relationship with the totally delicious Tenealle, despite her myriad cousins, too. But which cousin tried to harm her. And why? And what is the story about the fountain?

“Tempting Tenealle”

adult excerpt

She couldn’t help but notice both men’s cocks were ready for action again. Evan’s penis was wider and a slightly darker color than Faris’s—like his body, his cock was long. But Tenealle had no complaints about Evan’s equipment. He’d filled and stretched her pussy in the most delicious way and given her an excellent orgasm.
“Now lie on your backs and let me play,” she ordered them.
“What do you plan to play?”asked Faris curiously.
“I’ll think of something,” she replied, moving over to a large chest of drawers. The first drawer held socks and briefs, which she ignored. But the second had neckties and other male accessories she rather thought could be fun.
Tenealle grabbed a handful of neckties and gently bound their hands together, then tied the two men together by using a few neckties to loop their manacled hands together.
Then she settled herself over their four legs and draped a couple of neckties over their bodies, swirling the fabric across their abs, around their belly buttons, and over their thighs. Both cocks lengthened and darkened with need, and already a bead of cum had formed in the eye of Faris’s cock.
“I must be doing something right,” she murmured.
“Ah, honey, you’re killing us here,” said Evan.
Faris nodded and wiggled his hips.
Tenealle rubbed her wet pussy up and down their thighs, then rotated herself to sit across their bellies so they couldn’t see what she was doing.
She tormented them, gently stroking their thighs and groins, even occasionally touching their balls or shafts very lightly, but never giving satisfaction.
By now both men were frantically thrusting their hips up at her, desperate for fulfillment. Tenealle decided she had teased them enough. Besides, she was longing for a taste of them both.
She gripped a cock firmly in each hand, sliding her fist up from root to tip, reveling in the sensations of strong muscles inside soft skin. Again and again she stroked them, adding an occasional twist to her grip, before leaning forward to suck first Evan, then Faris, deep into her mouth.
Next, she played with their balls, rolling them inside their sacs while licking across the cock heads. Finally, she settled down to seriously suck them, a hand on each shaft, holding it firmly and stroking it while she sucked first one, then the other, rubbing along the thick, ropey vein, running her tongue under the sensitive ridge of the caps, and scraping her teeth gently over the two cock heads.
Tenealle was enjoying herself very much, concentrating on pleasing her men, loving the urgent upthrusts of their hips, when four hands grabbed her and flipped her over. A condom appeared from nowhere, and Faris was pushing deep into her cunt.
“What the hell?” Her brain was reeling with the sudden change of game plan.
“We untied each other. It’s time for us to take charge,” said Evan, kneeling beside her head and offering his red and needy cock to her lips.
Faris held her hips still while she opened wide to accept as much of Evan into her mouth as she could take. Tenealle tipped her head right back, opening the back of her throat, and swallowed his cock head.
God, he felt good, and so did Faris in her pussy. When Faris pushed right in, he almost touched the mouth of her womb, he was so long.
The two men controlled their strokes, pushing in and pulling out simultaneously, quickly driving Tenealle to a place where she lost all power to think and could barely remember to vary her sucking to give Evan pleasure. Faster and faster the men thrust, pushing into her hard and deep. Tenealle clenched her pussy muscles and sucked hard, running her tongue under the ridge of Evan’s cock.
Fingers pinched her nipples. A fingernail scraped across her clit, and an orgasm exploded from her pussy, her clit, her breasts. The power of her climax made Tenealle shake all over. Desperately she sucked on Evan, wanting him to come too. Again she ran her tongue under the sensitive cap of his penis, then pressed her tongue along the vein of his shaft, rubbing up and down, before sucking him as deep as she could once again.
Suddenly, both men were there, Faris exploding in her hot pussy, and Evan in her mouth. Quickly she swallowed, enjoying his salty taste, and unbelievably, as she did, ripples spread from her pussy throughout her body.
She licked Evan clean, then relaxed back into the bed, feeling completed, fulfilled, satisfied.
“Damn, you two are good,” she whispered after Evan pulled out of her mouth.
“You’re pretty good yourself, honey,” said Faris, rolling her onto her side so both men could snuggle into her.

BUY LINK: http://www.bookstrand.com/tempting-tenealle

Berengaria Brown
http://berengariasblog.blogspot.com/
http://berengariabrown.webs.com/
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I Haz It

The stomach bug that was going around my house, finally hit me yesterday. By this morning I was light-headed and knew I was dehydrated. Off to the hospital per doctors orders. There they gave me 2 bags of IV fluids and an anti-nausea medicine. I'm still feeling yucky, but mom and baby will be just fine. An ultrasound proved nothing wrong with the baby.
So I'll be sleeping the day away. I have edits in my inbox but I can't work on them right now.
Thanks to my friends who sent notes worried because I'd been MIA for a few days. :)
Love you guys.

Happily Editing

Yesterday I picked up my manuscript I’ll be pitching to an agent in April at the RWA NEC conference. To be honest I haven’t looked at this book in almost two years. I did read/edit six pages a few weeks ago, but my heart wasn’t in it, so I put it aside.
Yesterday was different. I’m in a different mindset. I got through the first ten pages required for the agent. As I’ve mentioned before the agent will read these pages prior to the meeting. So I have to sit down and write the synopsis and a query letter to grab her attention and make her want more. What I found is I really LOVE this book. I’m excited about editing the rest and getting it ready for my agent appointment. And hey, if she isn’t interested I’m sure I can find a publisher who will want to buy it.
So while I await second round edits for All or Nothing and first round for Just Another Rainy Day I’ll be working hard on this non-erotic book. :o)
Happy Wednesday!

The Sea Horse

I have a few two bits of exciting news. First I want share that I’m expecting. I’m 15 weeks along. I’m on so many restrictions it’s insane. I can barely get off the couch, per doctors orders. And the DH is making sure I’m listening. More so because of my age and personal issues than fear of a repeat of my last pregnancy. I’m being monitored every three weeks for the baby’s sake. The team of doctors are positive and I’m thinking nothing but positive thoughts. I’ll be delivering early at 36 weeks, so prayers and good thoughts are always welcome. So, what’s with the sea horse title? That’s what my 13 yr old is calling the baby. Because we don’t know the sex yet, she’s decided to call it a sea horse. We found it humorous and are going with sea horse. LOL
The only sad part is I might not get to go to RomantiCon. I can sacrifice it for one year, but I’m hoping to pull off going. I’m waiting for them to nail down the exact date of delivery. The way I see it is I should be going back to work the Monday after RomantiCon, so if that’s the case I’m going to take off two extra days and go. :o)
The other good news is I received a contract for my quickie Just Another Rainy Day. This story will be part of EC’s taboo line. No word on a release date and I’m still awaiting edits, but I’ll be sure to keep you posted.
I thought I’d start Monday off with a bang!
Happy Monday!

So Much Fun!

Yesterday was my local chapter’s meeting. I hadn’t planned to stay for the workshop because I don’t write historical nor do I have the desire to. I love to read it, but in all honesty I hate intense research. Just being honest here folks.
Anyway, Donna Russo Morin, who is a fantastic historical author, gave a brilliant workshop. It was interactive, fun and I haven’t laughed so much in a long time. I laughed and laughed for two hours.
Mind you I left a VERY sick husband at home in bed. He was in and out of the bathroom before I left. I offered to stay home and he said definitely not. He wanted me to get out. I’m so glad I did. There’s nothing like laughter with friends to make you feel better.
Cheers to all my writer friends and our local chapter. I had a blast.

Not sure I'll be able to top that today...the DH is still sick and I think there will be a trip to the ER. :(

Special Guest - Regina Carlysle

I know there’s a school of thought touting the yummy wonderfulness of the vamp as opposed to those furry, shifter heroes. I mean, what’s not to love about a vamp? He’s sexy. He’s immortal, drinks blood and is very, very cold to the touch. Just what every heroine needs to cool her off during those sweltering summer nights, right? Admittedly, I’ve loved a few vamp heroes in my day but after reading Sherrilyn Kenyon’s Night Play (Vane and Bride’s story) several years ago, I became a complete fangirl of shifters.
What’s not to love? He turns furry when the moon is full and makes love to his swooning heroine with a raw, savage and unbridled passion that I challenge any vamp hero to duplicate. He’s pretty damn hot too. Not only in appearance but, well…he’s hot. My heroines have not a smidge of trouble cuddling up to Mr. Hot and Furry and also enjoy the benefit of knowing he’ll be rock solid and there for her not only at night but during the daytime too. A definite plus when on the run from those pesky bad guys.
Over the years, I’ve had a lot of fun penning shifter tales. My High Plains Shifters series (Ellora’s Cave) features an entire town of wolves. Using the familiar-to-me locale of west Texas, I mix the traditional cowboy/rancher/sheriff with the wolf mythos and a healthy dash of small town Texas life. My very first shifters however, are Texas panthers. Feral Moon, released at Ellora’s Cave in late 2008 tells the story of a woman who learns the secret of her birth and the means of embracing a future that is dangerous, thrilling and yes, sexy as all get out. Now I have added a second book, Panther Moon, to what has become a brand new series for me. The Savage Sanctuary series takes up where Feral Moon leaves off, introducing Hudson Cates, a warrior of the Turquoise Moon panther tribe and his mate, Chantrea Morgan. Like Feral Moon, Panther Moon is also a ménage so if you don’t enjoy sexy threesomes, this is probably not the series for you. However, if you DO like hot, ménage action and heroes who are raw, savage and ultra sexy, Panther Moon is now available at Ellora’s Cave.
Link:
http://www.jasminejade.com/p-9147-panther-moon.aspx

Blurb:
Savage Sanctuary, Book Two

Running for her life, Chantrea Morgan, unmated and approaching her time of change, stumbles through the night only to be rescued by a gorgeous yet dangerous male. Blinded by instant recognition of her mate, she clings to him, her only means of salvation. Her body burns for him. Her heart aches with the need to be claimed by this wild Texas panther.

Hudson Cates, warrior of the Turquoise Moon tribe of shifters, saves his grieving mate and brings her home to claim her in the only way he can…with orgasmic pleasure, savage possession and a raw sensuality that is bred into their species. In a ritual as old as time, only he, aided by another male from their tribe, can help Trea embrace her panther beast.



An Excerpt From: PANTHER MOON
Copyright © REGINA CARLYSLE, 2011
All Rights Reserved, Ellora's Cave Publishing, Inc.
Chapter One

Chantrea carried an armload of supper dishes to the sink, the muted sounds of the television playing in the living room, making her smile. Sounded like a baseball game to her. Being an addict to the game was her dad’s one true vice. Her mother, Celia, laughed at something Brant said. Typical evening in the Morgan household. Outside the modest Texas home, crickets chirped as the wind rustled the leaves of ancient oaks and cottonwoods. An owl hooted from a faraway branch. “Hey, Mom, dinner was great,” she called as she loaded the dishwasher, turned it on and headed into the living room.
Celia smiled from her position curled up against her husband of several centuries. “Love it when a new recipe turns out.”
Brant kissed the top of his wife’s blonde head and winked at Trea as she wandered into the room. “You did good, hon.”
As an unmated female panther, she had grown up knowing she wanted what her parents had. Love. Affection. The deepest kind of understanding between mates. It was so heartwarming to witness their love firsthand. She was constantly in awe.
Wandering to the wide mantel over the fireplace, she shoved her hands in the pockets of her worn jersey shorts and looked at the pictures lovingly displayed there. “I miss Maxwell.” Her sigh was soft but even over the sounds of the game she knew her folks heard it.
“Your brother had to leave, honey. It was his time,” her mother said with calm conviction. Trea turned at the slight hitch evident in her mother’s voice and knew Mom missed him too. “He likes his job in Houston though he still hasn’t found any females of our species. There are just so few of us left but maybe, just maybe he’ll be one of the lucky males to find the perfect mate. You would think it easy in a city of over five million people. I know it hurts that he had to go but it’s natural, honey. He’s a man and gods know there is no future out here in the boonies. We’ve lived like hermits for so long.” Celia lifted a brow and glanced at Brant. “It hasn’t been fair to either of our children.”
Trea picked up the framed photo of her brother and herself taken during one of their rare family vacations. Tracing the handsome, male face, she blinked back moisture from her eyes as a blast of love caught her off guard. Like her, Max was blond and green-eyed but there the similarities stopped. Where she was slender, small, and to her way of thinking, rather ordinary, her brother Maxwell was a bonafide heartstopper. The gorgeous rascal was built like a tree trunk, broad-shouldered and handsome as sin. He was the kind of guy who’d made the local girls melt but he had carefully avoided all but the most necessary entanglements with humans. Smart dude. Trea was so proud of him and couldn’t help but wish him well in finding a mate of his own. The lady would be a very lucky feline. No doubt about it.
Behind her, Trea heard her parents shift position and she turned, surprised, when her dad pushed a button on the remote to turn off the television. Silence, sharp and somewhat ominous, fell into the depths of the small cabin. “We need to talk, princess.”
Frowning, she replaced the photo and gingerly sat on the edge of an overstuffed chair to look at her parents. Something about her father’s tone sent worry to dance over her spine. “What’s up, Dad?”
Brant Morgan focused his gaze on her. “Your mother and I have been talking.” He cleared his throat, obviously uncomfortable. “Chantrea, you are nearing your time. Maybe this is a good moment to—”
Trea’s face burned. “Dad!”
Celia patted Brant’s arm. “Love of mine, you are so clueless. Let me.”
He shook his head and sighed heavily, seeming downright relieved to let someone else tackle the delicate subject of a female were panther having her first heat. “Good. Go for it.”
Celia wasn’t deterred, focusing an intelligent gaze on her. “For all these years, we’ve tried to keep you safe out here in the country. You know panthers are solitary creatures and it’s uncomfortable for us to live among crowds. It’s stifling. Invasive. It was a huge risk for us to even let you attend the public school in town but, honey, we have worried so much about you. You’ve been so isolated out here in the woods of east Texas. No friends. Nothing that normal human girls come to enjoy. You don’t have a real life out here.”
“But I’m not human, Mom. It’s okay.” Chantrea knew darn good and well her life wasn’t normal. Sometimes it made her sad but this wasn’t the fault of her parents. They had to protect her. It was their duty and she would never fault them for the lonely state of her life. She shook her head and smiled, not wanting them to stress about the choices they’d made. “Really. Don’t worry about me.”
“We have to, Trea,” her dad said, leaning forward to prop his forearms over his sturdy thighs. “It wasn’t possible for you to date the local boys, honey. You know we don’t mix but you are a woman now. Things are, um—”
Once again, Celia put her hand out to stop him. “Happening to your body.”
Trea swallowed hard, knowing the utter truth of Mom’s words. Already she felt flashes of heat zip through her with astounding effect. Soon she would be helpless to the oncoming change and facing the shift from woman to panther would be the most horrible thing imaginable when dealing with it alone. She knew she couldn’t do it. The time to mate was upon her. Discomfort climbed over her flesh and buried itself deep in her belly. “Do we have to talk about this now?”
“We’ve decided to move to Sanctuary,” her dad baldly stated. “It’s time.”

Mari Freeman - Hard Hot and Howling

Please give Mari Freeman a welcome!


Hi, Amber! Thanks for having me.
I’m so excited about Hot, Hard & Howling! Being back in the paranormal genre feels like home. Howling is the first in a three book series about some very special, half-demon sisters.
The poor Halflings, their human blood has diluted their magic, leaving them some very unreliable demon powers. Nell Ambercroft is the smart, sassy heroine of this first book. Telekinesis is her demon magic.
Nell and the sexy, restrained Werewolf, Trent Nicholas, have to find out why someone is trying to kill Nell and steal a powerful amulet her father stashed in her basement.
Nell wants Trent. She always has. Trent fears his family’s history of abuse, so he denies his feelings for the Halfling. But the steamy, hot nights of New Orleans prove more than the werewolf can resist.
Her daring demon, his raging wolf... It gets wild when things go bump in the night.





Blurb:





Book one in the Hot, Hard series.

Nell Ambercroft hasn’t done anything wrong. Lately. So why is someone trying to kill her? When a horde of moths lead her to a puzzle box in her basement, the Demon Hafling knows she’s found a clue. The box has some serious mojo working, powerful enough to kill for…and Nell’s at the top of the hit list.

Enter Werewolf Trent Nicholas. As Prime for the area, it’s Trent’s job to protect Nell and investigate the crime. Nell knows he’d rather investigate her body, which is fine by her; she’s loved the man for years. While the sex is sizzling, however, Trent continues to go cold every time he leaves the warmth of her body.

Trent’s always wanted the spunky half-Demon, but the men in his family have a nasty habit of murdering their mates. He refuses to give in to his wolf’s need to claim Nell. If he doesn’t, she might not have to worry about a killer on the loose. She could die by Trent’s hand first…








Excerpt:



By reading any further, you are stating that you are at least 18 years of age. If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary to exit this site.
An Excerpt From: HOT, HARD & HOWLING
Copyright © MARI FREEMAN, 2011
All Rights Reserved, Ellora's Cave Publishing, Inc.
Chapter One

Naked, covered in blood and with a dead human on the bathroom floor was not exactly how one wanted to greet guests. Exasperated, Nell tossed the toothbrush aside. All the scrubbing in the world wasn’t going to get that blood out.
She looked in the mirror. Curly golden hair hung wild after drying on its own as she’d tried to save the grout. Her face was still flushed from the struggle and the scrubbing. Her cheeks and chin were scratched and bloody. The scratches didn’t matter. Small wounds healed quickly for a half-Demon. Nell rubbed with her fingers to try to get smears of blood off her face. She looked around for her robe and found it lying under the dead guy’s shoulder. Nell snorted. “Great.”
She scanned the rest of the contents of the vanity. Nothing of use left. She’d tried all the cleansers under the sink and none of them were getting the rust-colored stains out. Her gaze crossed the floor. At least the pool of blood there would come up with no problem. She propped her hands on her hips. “Damn.”
“What’s going on up there?” Her sister’s voice rang from the living room. “I had a funky vision.” Sonja lived several miles up the mountain. How had she gotten there so fast?
“And of course you rushed right over.” Vision? Great. Nell and both her younger sisters were half-Demon, so their Demon powers were unpredictable at best. The curse of the Halflings, their mi-ma always said. Even their shifts were only partial.
When Sonja had visions, everyone was wary of the information contained within. The crazy things were so confusing that no one, including Sonja herself, could decipher the images. Evidently this one had been clear enough to send Sonja out into the night to come check on Nell. Hadn’t the girl ever heard of a phone?
Nell found a dirty t-shirt hanging from a hook on the back of the bathroom door and pulled it on. “Up here. Did you bring bleach?”
“Bleach?” Sonja’s voice was closer. She stopped at the entrance of the bathroom. “Oh. You know, I almost did.” She bent over the fetal body on the floor to get a better look. “Nell,” she gasped, shooting straight up. “He’s human!”
“Duh. Do you smell blood magic? I smelled it when he attacked, but since I started trying to save the shower grout, I lost track of the scent.”
Sonja raised her eyebrow. “Blood magic? Really? How would a human have the smell of that?” She stepped over the body, looking down at the object sticking out of the man’s chest. “Is that a…”
Nell cleared her throat and let out an exasperated breath. “Yeah.”
Sonja bit her lip but failed in her attempt to hold back a loud, barking laugh. “You killed a man with a dildo?”

Buy Link: http://www.jasminejade.com/p-9172-hot-hard-howling.aspx
http://www.marifreeman.com/
Thanks again Amber! Hope to see you again this year… RomantiCon?

Long Winded Rant

Let me start off by saying that if you don’t want to hear me rant stop reading now! :o)
Today I’m letting off some steam. Yesterday was an insane day. It started off with the little guy having a fever because he had three shots the day before. He was resting comfortably in my arms while his mom got ready for work. His big sister decided she was going to come up on the couch and sit with us. Everything was fine for about thirty seconds when she let loose and was sick all over me, her brother, the couch, my blanket and the new rug. Everyone, except me, scrambled to get her into the bathroom and clean up. I eventually helped.
My youngest woke crying with a sore throat so bad she couldn’t swallow. Mind you I already had a scheduled consult with a doctor for myself. So, once the mess was clean and the kids were shipped off to their father’s house I called L’s doctor. They could see her later in the day.
Off to my appointment we went. Things went well so we went back home so I could attend three very important meetings. The DH is still sick, so he decided to take the daughter to the doctors because one, I’m not sick and can’t afford to be and two he’s on an antibiotic so he’s safer. Sure enough the daughter has a viral infection with blistery sores on the back of her throat. I did my best to take care of her from a distance. :o)
To make the day even better my son stopped by for a visit oh and he’s sick. He spent an hour in the bathroom. I insisted he go home! Luckily his roommate had driven over so they could use my printer. You bet I had the Lysol wipes out and cleaned everything anyone touched.
Today will be better right?
Now for the second part of my rant which has nothing to do with the first.
A few weeks ago I was bored and watching VH1’s 100 Most Shocking Rock Moments. The Station Night Club Fire which claimed the lives of 100 people and burned many others came in at number 7. What bothers me about the ranking is that Britney Spears shaving her head came in at number 4! I’m still saying WTF. Seriously??? This is more shocking than the loss of 100 lives? Really?
Now I’m not talking about this because I’m from RI. The truth is I didn’t live here when it happened nor did I know anyone from RI when it happened. I remember watching it on the news horrified. Had I lived in RI at the time there’s a HUGE possibility that I would’ve been there. I was a Great White fan and around that time I was going to a lot of shows with my best friend. Last week marked the 8th anniversary and it still breaks my heart for all the families and friends who lost loved ones that night.
Okay, now I’m off my soapbox.
For those of you who subscribe to my newsletter – YES, I’m late. I’m working on it and will have it out later today. Sorry for the delay.

Guest Blogger - Annie Alvarez

Tell us about your current release

Carly Bright: Sex Games was just released on Valentine’s Day of this year. I’m excited to say that Carly Bright is different from my darker, Hightower Series. Yes, they are both vampire related in a way, but Carly has a witty sense of humor that is constantly getting her into trouble. She’s young, pretty and a WBPA (World Bureau Paranormal Agency) agent. Humor, adventure and sex. Who could have asked for more?

Here’s a little blurb:

Carly Bright was born into a long line of witches, but she abandoned her magical heritage for a promising career as a WBPA - World Bureau Paranormal Agent. Teamed up with a vampire partner, Carly wants to make her mark in the world of paranormal investigators, but when they are attacked in public, things change.
Finding out who tried to kill her is only the beginning of Carly's problems. She has to convince her family that her vampire partner isn't out to kill her. Or is she?

Excerpt:

I slipped my hand under the water. Finding my underactive groin, I cupped and then squeezed myself. A jolt of pleasure radiated through me. I instantly shot a look at the door, making sure I had locked it. Relieved I wouldn’t have any uninvited guests, I sank further into the tub, letting the bubbly water caress my neckline. I squeezed again, feeling another shock of blissful joy shiver through me. I glanced around the bathroom again to make sure no one had snuck in and gently started massaging my protruding bundle. Thinking about Ash quickly rushed a mini orgasm from me.
I felt cheated and started massaging myself again. This time, I made it a point to think about my ex-boyfriend and I soon realized that not only was he a smuck, but just thinking about him made my feeling-good feelings disappear. Frustrated and horny, I allowed myself to think about Ash again. This time, limiting what I thought, trying to extend my next orgasm.
I thought about her long, sleek legs and having them wrapped around my waist. I wondered if kissing a woman would feel different. Then I thought about her perfectly shaped lips pressing against mine as her hand slid over my own, and she finished what I had started. Images of us frolicking naked on a sandy beach flashed in my mind when I realized it was my rapid arm movements that had created the sounds of the splashing water. Oh God! How the hell was I going to explain this? Horney as hell, but no longer interested in pursuing my self-satisfying plans, I drained the tub, dried myself off, used the towel to soak up most of the water from the tile floor, then balled it up, tucking it under my arm.
Copyright © 2011 Annie Alvarez

Who are your books published with?

As of right now, I’m strictly with eXtasy Books (http://www.extasybooks.com/). If you’re curious as to why I’ve stuck with only one publisher, I have an answer for you. The truth is that I like eXtasy. They treat their authors like family and for me, that’s priceless. Not to mention that they are damn good at what they do. :-)

What do you think makes a good story?

Wow! I’ve got a lot of answers for that one question. Let’s see…a good storyline, good character interaction, good sex scenes. Basically, if the story keeps me interested, I like it.
As a reader, I read to escape. I’m looking for a short time to get out of my life and into someone else’s. I want to feel what they feel. I want to sigh in relief or hold my breath with the character. If I find myself doing that with a book, I’m hooked.
As a writer it’s all about working hard to make sure the story is an easy read, enjoyable and addicting. :-)

Plotter or Pantser? Why?

Definitely a panster, LOL. My characters often speak to me and occasionally one of them says something that spirals a plot idea. A scene that they fit perfectly or a situation that so totally describes them that I can’t overlook. That’s when I sit down and write a story around that idea or scene. From there it just all flows naturally. I create a beginning, a middle and an end all based on that one original thought.

Tell us about your family

Oh, boy! Let me start by saying that I love my family, but. Well, we all know how families are. Some of us seemed to have won the lotto when it comes to kooky relatives. LOL. Mine is no different. Sometimes, I swear that I’m the milkman’s daughter, adopted or switched at birth. Compared to my siblings, you wouldn’t know that I’m actually first generation American, born of Cuban parents. My sister and especially, my brother sound as though they just stepped off the flotilla boat. Me? Yeah, not so much. And don’t even get me started on the little quirks that make up my family bonds. OMG! But, yeah, I love them to pieces! Did you hear that little sister? LOL

What book are you reading now?

I just finished reading Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead, and picked up Mercy Blade by Faith Hunter as well as, Blood Visions by Courtney Breazile. My favorite authors are L.K. Hamilton, Kim Harrison, Jocelynn Drake, Douglas Adams, Kathy Reichs, Jeaniene Frost and anyone who can write as quickly as I read. LOL

What songs are most played on your Ipod?

Oh, shoot. I’ve got to pull my Ipod out, hang on a minute… “Bring me to Life” and “My Immortal” - Evanescence. “Rude boy” - Rihanna. “Born this way” and “Bad Romance” - Lady Gaga. “Help I’m alive” - Metric. “Sweet about me” – Gabriella Cilmi. “Broken Road” – Rascal Flats. Yes, I do have diverse tastes in music. :-)

What is your favorite meal?

I Love sushi. Not the wimpy California rolls or the cooked stuff, either. There’s a Sushi Chef here in town that created a crunchy, spicy Tuna roll for us, that is chopstick licking good! Add a little Octopus salad with that and Oh my! I’m getting hungry!

Do you have any suggestions for beginning writers? If so, what are they?

Rule #1: Don’t give up.

Rule #2: Don’t give up.

And rule #3? You guessed it. DON”T GIVE UP!
Seriously? If anyone ever told you that writing was easy, they lied. There is nothing easy about pouring your heart and soul into a story and having a publisher reject it, a reviewer thrash it or a reader not buy it. Keep at it. Keep writing and keep submitting it. Don’t ever give up.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

Yes, I’m so glad you asked. First of all, I want to say thank you to all who have followed my Hightower Clan Series so diligently and yes, I am writing another Hightower story. Secondly, I hope that I don’t disappoint you with Carly Bright. Third, if you like vampires and witches and haven’t read my books, please give them a try. I’ve gotten wonderful reviews back from readers and reviewers. And finally, thank you Amber for inviting to appear in your blog. Perhaps, one day soon, you would return the favor and make an appearance at Naughty Little Vamps?
Annie :0)

http://www.anniealvarez.net/
www.romancewiki.com/AnnieAlvarez
http://www.naughtylittlevamp.blogspot.com/