Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Guest Interview - Silvia Violet



Please give a warm welcome to special guest Silvia Violet!

Plotter or Pantser? Why?

I’m a little of each. I always know how the story will start and end, and I think through the basic framework of the story, usually just making a list of scenes with notes and sometimes dialogue snippets that have been running through my head. But once I start writing, the story often begins to form itself and many of my plans for how to get from start to finish get abandoned. I’m very much a planner and an organizer in other aspects of my life, and I want to be a detailed plotter. But I’ve learned to accept that my muse thinks otherwise

What is the hardest part of writing your books?

Pushing myself to keep going through the first draft when I’m not sure where the story is going. My stories always start with the characters popping into my head and demanding that I write their story, but once I get started writing things will often take an unexpected turn and I’m left questioning whether the story will work out. I write my first draft by typing as fast as I can with no editing even for typos. I write the story from start to finish leaving highlighted notes for myself to help me fix up the next draft, but when I start to wonder where things are going, trusting the story to work itself out does not come easily for me.

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

Set a very realistic goal for how much time you are going to devote to writing and then schedule that amount of time every day. When I decided to get serious about writing, I committed to write fifteen minutes a day every day. I knew that I could always find fifteen minutes even if I just stayed up a little later or got up earlier. I quickly found myself spending much more time writing and feeling good than I was accomplishing my goal.

What book are you reading now?

I’ve been reading a lot of m/m lately. My favorite recent reads are Josh Lanyon’s Adrien English series and Ethan Day’s Sno Ho. Next in my queue is a steampunk book, Retribution Falls by Chris Wooding. It comes recommended from a friend and seems to have a very Firefly-ish feel.

Where do you dream of traveling to and why?

One of my goals is to do more traveling in the next few years. My top dream destinations right now are France, Italy, Costa Rica, and the Serengeti. I’m working on saving money for a trip to Paris for my 40th birthday.

Morning Person? Or Night Person?

I’m a morning person. I like getting up earlier than everyone else (not an easy task with my early-rising children) so I can have some quiet time to myself. I write better in the morning than any other time of day.

What do you do to unwind and relax?

Creating in the kitchen is relaxing for me. I like all types of cooking, but baking is my passion. I love coming up with new types of cookies, cakes, muffins, and scones. I also read as much as I can and I go hiking with my family as often as I can.

What is your favorite meal?

fillet mignon, fingerling potatoes, and roasted asparagus with devil’s food cake for dessert

Tell us about your favorite restaurant.

My favorite restaurant is an amazing local gastro-pub called The Admiral. The menu changes daily and the combination of ingredients the chef devises are unexpectedly orgasmic. A meal there is as intense as any sexual experience.

Tell us about your current release.

My most recent release is Shifter’s Galaxy: Accommodating Desire In this m/m/f short story, I revisit the world of my BDSM sci fi series, Shifter’s Station.

Blurb:

Lucy Vasilia is the director of the Alkestis Market, a well-run trading center catering to both legitimate and black market concerns. She's not a woman who normally mixes business with pleasure, but shipping tycoon, Ian Hadley's dominating presence and cool control make her knees weak. When he matter-of-factly proposes a three way with his lover, Security Chief, Connor Langley, she decides to make an exception and give herself over to pleasure for an afternoon. But Ian and his dark, dominating lover want far more from her than a few hour’s dalliance. They intend to make her acknowledge their soul-deep connection, and they won’t be satisfied until they’ve claimed her in every possible way.

Excerpt:

Ian Hadley opened the door to the reception area for the Alkestis offices. A Vindolesian with the characteristic grass green hair and onyx eyes burst out of Ms Vasilia’s office. “Stupid bitch,” he yelled as he threw a nano tablet at the receptionist, narrowly missing her head.
“If that slut thinks she can keep us out of her fucking market, she’s even stupider than I thought.”
Ian stepped into his path. “You would be wise to retract that last statement.”
The Vindo shoved at Ian’s chest. “Fuck off, asshole.”
In one swift motion Ian drew his plasma gun and shoved the man up against the wall, weapon pressed under his chin. “If I or one of my employees hear you refer to Ms. Vasilia like that again, those will be the last words you ever speak.”
“Jeez, lighten up man. You fucking her or something?” Ian shoved the weapon harder against the man’s chin. The Vindo made a choked gasp. “Fine. Fine. I’ll lay off your girlfriend.”
“I respect the women I do business with, and I will defend their honor even if that means some asshole has to die. Don’t let me see you on this station again.”
Ian stepped back and the Vindo scrambled to the door and disappeared down the corridor.
***
Lucy Vasilia electronically signed a document and folded her nano tablet before looking up at Ian Hadley. She made a final, slow perusal of his well-toned physique, suppressing a sigh that their meeting had come to an end. “That should conclude our business. I’ve sent a copy of the contract to your ship’s computer.”
He smiled, a slow, sensuous curve of his lips. “Excellent.” He made no move to leave her office.
“Did you have further questions?” Lucy managed to keep her tone professional though he made her want to purr.
“I do have one question.” He paused, his bright blue eyes hot and unrelenting. “Would you like company?”
Lucy titled her head and stared at him. “For what?”
His smile deepened. “When I fuck you.”
Lucy sucked in her breath. “Presumptuous, aren’t you?”
“I’ve seen your eyes drifting down to my cock. You want this as much as I do.”
She stared pointedly at his crotch. His erection threatened to burst one of the seams of his expensive suit. “You certainly are making a rather impressive display.”
He smirked. “Indeed.”
“I assume you’d like your Head of Security to join us?”
“Ah, so you did do your homework.”
“I never meet with anyone I haven’t researched thoroughly. You hired Langley at Captain Devlin’s suggestion.” It was a statement, not a question.
Ian nodded. “Devlin said to tell you hello by the way.”
“Did he indeed? I take it Chief Langley isn’t fully human.”
Ian shook his head. “He’s not, but I have the impression you won’t be disturbed by his particular needs.”
She grinned. “I’m not as fragile as I look.”
“I never thought you were. So what will it be? How much hard use are you game for today?”
She nearly choked. “I can take whatever you and your lover want to give.”
“You may live to regret that statement. When?”
She held up a finger signaling him to wait and pressed a button on her desk unit, paging her receptionist. “Cynthia.”
“Yes, Director?”
“Cancel my next two appointments.”
Ian raised his brows, studying her curiously.
A sharp voiced erupted from the comm. Unit. “With all due respect, Director, the delegation from-“
“My business with Mr. Hadley is taking longer than expected. I will simply have to reschedule.”
“Yes, Director.” Cynthia sounded resigned.
Lucy looked at Ian, fighting the urge to tremble. The sexual heat in his eyes was devastating. She’d never slept with a business associate, and she’d certainly never cancelled an appointment so she could get a quick fuck in her office.
Then again, she couldn’t recall a man who’d ever turned her on as hard and fast as Ian did. She’d glimpsed him with his lover as she’d headed to dinner the night before. Connor Langley was a glorious mix of beauty and pure animal power. He moved with a panther’s grace, but she had no doubt he could kill most men one-handed. She’d been working her ass off. She deserved a treat. “Call Langley now.”
He pressed a button on his wrist unit. “Langley, you’re needed in the Director’s office.”
“Is there a problem, sir?”
“No, we are simply in need of a . . . consultation.”
“I will be right there, sir, ” Langley responded.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Saturday

For some reason I thought I blogged yesterday, but apparently I didn’t. :o)
Yesterday I worked on edits for Chasing Forever. I was a bit surprised to see them in my inbox so fast. I just sent the contract last week. Usually my editor will send an email saying the contract was received and I’ll see edits in a few days or a week. This time she sent the edits with the email.
This morning I have to work on a blurb. Oh I don’t like writing blurb, almost as much as I dread writing the synopsis. I already picked out the quickie cover so I’m all set on that.
Our house is a huge MESS. I can barely walk around in the bar/workout/office area. I can’t wait until we can start putting things back where they belong. Today we can do that upstairs for the baby’s room and the upstairs bathroom, but it doesn’t look like the rest will get done before Tuesday. I don’t like chaos. I’m not a neat freak by any means, but disarray to this extreme stresses me out.
Tonight I think the DH and I will drive down to the beach and have dinner on the water. I’m sure the restaurants will be crowded because of Memorial Day weekend and we’re experiencing 80s here in New England. I just love watching the ocean while eating.
I should have a house with a water view. I’d never grow tired of the view. Maybe someday when I’m rich. Ha Ha!
Happy Saturday.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Thursday

I like to give a huge shout out to my friend Marie Rose Dufour who signed her very first contract yesterday with Secret Cravings Publishing. I’m sure this will be the first of many. She gave Linda Kage and I a big piece of credit and for that I thank her. I’m proud she’s a friend and now fellow author. Hugs honey!
You can read the tribute here: http://marierosedufour.blogspot.com/2011/05/wow-just-wow.html
In other news my heart goes out to those who have had their lives torn apart by devastating weather and to the families who lost dear ones. It’s such a tragedy.
Blogger seems to be having issues lately. On most sites if you want to leave a comment you must do so using anonymous. Very frustrating. Hopefully they’ll work the bugs out soon.
The day before I was on the phone with a friend of mine and she made me realize how toxic she is and an overall Debbie Downer. I’m not going to go into details of the conversation, but I will say that although I hadn’t spoken to her in a few months I now realize why. After speaking to her I crawled into bed and slept. When I woke up I was still miserable from the call. It took me hours to get over the way I felt. Who needs that? Life is too short. So I bid the friend farewell. I love my life and my happiness. If you’d rather spent your life dwelling on the negatives and drama you’re not welcome in mine.
Ah, that feels better. :o)
Okay time to get cracking on the WIP…oh and our pool was opened yesterday. Those who follow me know I’ll be sitting on deck soaking up the rays for the next few months. I love summer.
Happy Thursday!

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

No Special Guest Today

Today’s special guest didn’t send me her information so it’s just little ole me. I’ve got nothing to talk about because we’re too busy cleaning rooms and getting things ready to be painted tomorrow. I wish I had more, but I don’t. :o)
Hope everyone has a wonderful Tuesday.

Monday, May 23, 2011

On The Mend

I think I’m finally mending this time. I was able to leave the house yesterday, aside from going to doctors. The DH and I went and ordered the baby furniture, so that will arrive in 2 weeks and then he gets the fun of putting it all together.
I wish the coughing would go away. I’m still taking Robitussin with codeine at night so I can get some sleep. Today I have to get back to writing. The 31st is right around the corner and I haven’t finished the wip I’m working on.
I did sign a new contract last week for a quickie called Chasing Forever. It’s a story of two best friends who finally give in to their feelings after a tragedy. More details coming.
Unless I finish this book and sub it – I have nothing out there. Zilch, zero, nada. I have lots of ideas and only 10 weeks to write before I hit the hospital. Exactly 10 weeks from today our daughter will arrive.
So I need lots of time and NO MORE SICKNESS.
Happy Monday!

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Sick and Tired



Sorry I’ve been MIA...I’ve been sick yet again. All I’ve been doing is sleeping thanks to Robitussin with codeine. My poor baby is probably tired of me coughing. I know I am.
I promised to make an announcement of the winner from my blog at Romance Books R Us on Monday and I’m late. The winner is Sandy. Please email me so I can send you a copy of Sex on the Beach.
I didn’t even get to brag about my latest release from Loose Id on Tuesday. Hit Me is out and now available. It’s a battle of the sexes as Holly and Deacon fight for ownership of a casino.

Here's a little taste:

Holly's not looking for a night of hot sex when she goes to Vegas, but she finds it and more with Deacon. The two tycoons are after the same thing. So it's a high stakes game and neither can flinch from saying, 'hit me'.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Guest Blogger - Heather Peters


Thanks, Amber for having me; Your interviews are so fun!

Thanks for being here today! I always enjoy having you. :o)

Tell us about your favorite character from your books. I love all my characters, but I'm going to say it's a tie between Lyon from Surrender and Dane from Secret Dreams. Lyon Sauvage is my hero from Surrender, my contemporary Beauty and the Beast novella. Lyon is scarred inside and out, and is in love with a woman who doesn’t love him back. But through his tenderness, nobility and devotion to Belle, the woman who left him five years before, he endures and eventually, gets the girl in the end. Dane, my older hero (he's 48) from Secret Dreams, has never married because his career doesn't allow room for a wife. Yet once he meets Annie, his fears about commitment fade away, and he makes a choice to do anything and everything to commit himself to Annie, and their love.

Tell us about your current release. Secret Dreams is my contemporary romance that features my feisty heroine, Annie DeRosa, a savvy, brilliant, music producer, who lives and works in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. She is the best at what she does and devotes her waking hours to her work.

My hero is music icon and 80s superstar Dane Franklyn, a fiercely independent musician, who is extremely possessive of his material. His music company has given him literally hours to write a title song for his upcoming album. He's never allowed anyone to share the load, until now. Finding himself in a bind, he's come to the conclusion he needs help. But when that help comes in the petite fiery form of lovely, sexy, smart Annie De Rosa, the sparks begin to fly.

The sexual tension crackles from their first meeting and gradually elevates into an all-out inferno by the time they begin working together in the studio. Being stubborn individuals, their personalities soon clash, and Dane and Annie agree to disagree. But music creates a language and sexuality all its own, driving them both to discover a passion and desire neither have ever known.

Tell us about your next release. Right now I'm working on two erotic romances; one, about a hockey goaltender and the team owner's daughter; the other, a spa owner and former DEA agent.

Who is your favorite author? Too many to list from today's top writers; but I'm going to reveal my age and say I fell in love with Kathleen Woodiwiss in 1976; Once I read Flame and the Flower, Shanna, and Rose in Winter, I felt that no one could ever create romance like she did; Now that she's gone, an era is over. She was one in a million, and will be missed.

When was your first sale? My first sale was in June 2009, with the release of an erotic romance published by Freya's Bower, called Toy with Me, written with my writing partner at the time, Eden Elgabri.

What is the hardest part of writing your books? Oh, you would have to ask that question! Lol….For me, it's the love scenes; I try very hard not to make them all sound alike, but I have to admit that I struggle to get those in bed and create a memorable lovemaking session. The actual act of love is so much easier than writing about it!

Where do you research for your books? Let's face it, how many of us could live without the internet? Google and I are real good friends.

Do you have critique partners or beta readers? My critique partner and dear friend and slave driver (sorry, kidding) Angela Aaron, keeps pushing me to get it right and keep going, when I want to give up or become discouraged; a good friend who believes in me.

Who are your books published with? Surrender, Secret Dreams and Best Laid Plans are Noble Romance Publishing Releases; With a Twist, a Red Sage release.

What do you think makes a good story? When I read a book, I want to know what's going to happy on the next page, and the page after that, and that page after that and so on; a story that keeps me turning the pages, a heart wrenching love story, a tender hero who adores his woman; a woman who stands up to her man, but loves him fiercely; a plot that keeps you guessing til the last page….now that's a good story.

Plotter or Pantser? Why? I think both, actually; sometimes, I just write as I go along; but lately, I've been using the 3-act structure and it's worked out fine. Whatever mood I happen to be in at the time I guess.

Tell us about your family. I have two amazing adult children, both married; I'm also blessed with two grandchildren, who, in the past several months, have literally saved my life and sanity when I was going through a hard time. I have great cousins and lots of aunts and uncles. So I don’t feel like an only child. I have a wonderful extended family.

Do you use a pen name? If so, how did you come up with it? Yes, I do have a pen name and I simply use my daughter's name, which is Heather, and my son's name is, yep, you guessed it, Peter.

Do you listen to music while writing? If so what? It's funny; as much as I love music, I can't write unless I'm sitting in total silence; I guess my attention span isn’t as deep as I'd like it to be.

How do you develop your plots and your characters? Do you use any set formula? No set formula; I usually will see something on TV or in a movie that will spark an idea, then sit down and think about how I want to write them into a story.

What book are you reading now? Right now I'm reading a bunch of old Sandra Marton's Harlequins; I simply adore her heroes; they are so strong, macho, confident, usually very rich and cocky, but tender and passionate lovers – works for me!

What are your favorite TV shows? I love True Blood & Vampire Diaries; also Nurse Jackie, Dexter and recently got hooked on Criminal Minds; love Shemar Moore – he's yummy!

What is your favorite meal? I'm an American Italian, as Martin Scorcese likes to call us, so anything that involves sauce, pasta, meatballs, or eggplant and Italian pastries make me a very happy girl.

What do you do to unwind and relax? I love to read, crochet, or just become a vegetable and watch TV.

Do you have any suggestions for beginning writers? If so, what are they? I'm going to be very corny and boring and say, never give up, no matter what. It took me over 15 years to get Secret Dreams published, but I got there. And don’t let anyone tell you writing for you is a 'hobbie' – it's what we do, what we are.

Morning Person? Or Night Person? I'm usually awake before five each morning; I love to nap when I can, but definitely a day person.

What would we find under your bed? Lots of dust bunnies!

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers? Thanks so much for reading my stories and I hope to keep you all happy. I'll try to keep getting them out there, and bring you books filled with hunky heroes, brave, intelligent heroines, stories that explore relationships, passion, share laughter, and yes, mind-blowing, steamy sex!

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Sex Sells and a Contest

Today I'm blogging over at Romance Books R Us and I'm holding a contest. Drop in for your chance to win a copy of Sex on the Beach

Thursday, May 12, 2011

This and That...

There seems to be a lot of talk about Facebook this morning. I guess you can’t advertise contests and if I read the rules correctly you can’t do much. So I have to ask…as an author who wants to promote myself and run contests why would I choose Facebook? I’ll be honest I’d been considering it for about a month now. Everyone told me it’s the thing to do. In fact many insisted I must have a Facebook page if I plan to increase my sales.
Well I’m still on the fence and I’ll wait until all this mess clears up before I make a decision – currently I’m leaning towards not having one.
Yesterday after writing double my normal writing goal I decided to check out the series Camelot. We’ve been recording it, but haven’t sat down to watch. With the house unusually quiet I took advantage and watched the first three episodes. I really enjoyed them. I’m going to catch up on a few more today while it’s quiet again. The DH wasn’t happy because I watched them without him and now he’ll have to catch up on his own. Hey I need something to unwind after a few stressful days at work.
I’m off to write another 1k…one down one to go. That deadline is going to hit me like a brick wall I’m afraid. I have about 7k to finish the story…deadline? Three days. I’ll keep you posted.
Happy Thursday!

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Sex on the Beach


Taking a break from writing to tell you about my new release today. Sex on the Beach is available from Ellora's Cave

Here's what you'll find at the Beach!

Blurb:
Allie only wanted two weeks of peace and quiet at her friend’s beach house to get her life in perspective. She wasn’t looking for sex, drugs and a kidnapping. But that’s what she gets when she encounters not one but two tasty men.

Tony, her gorgeous next-door neighbor, has a body any woman would want to explore, and Allie crave him licking, teasing and ravishing her body with those strong hands and kissable lips. Little does she know Tony’s on the trail of a drug dealer.

Then there’s Paul, who also wants a piece of Allie…if he can possibly tear her away from Tony.


An Excerpt From: SEX ON THE BEACH

Copyright © AMBER SKYZE, 2011

All Rights Reserved, Ellora's Cave Publishing, Inc.

Chapter One



The wind blew wisps of Allie’s long blonde hair back toward the road she’d just traveled. She sped along the California coastline in her yellow convertible Spyder, enjoying the sunrise in the distance. The sun sparkled across the ocean, glimmering orange as it rose. The rays would threaten to scorch her skin later in the day. The weatherman had said the temperatures would reach well into the nineties again.

She pressed her flip-flopped foot harder on the gas pedal. Allie allowed the car to accelerate because she knew no one in their right mind would be on the road at this ungodly hour. Not everyone woke before the crack of dawn. While most were still sleeping soundly in their beds, the air conditioner cooling their skin, Allie was up grocery shopping.

It wasn’t unusual for her to be up and going at four in the morning. She loved those first few hours of the day when life was quiet. She could sip her coffee leisurely. The hustle and bustle came later when she left the house to fight the highway traffic on her way to her job as a marketing executive for a pharmaceutical company.

At least that was her life before she’d lost her job. She punched the steering wheel.

“Fuck,” she cursed to the open wind. While she missed the craziness of her old life she had to admit the last six months were the most stress-free she’d felt in years, right up until she returned to work.

The long hours and stress related to her job contributed in the onslaught of health issues she hadn’t known existed. After three consecutive months with a bout of what she thought was the flu Allie finally sought the advice of her doctor. He put her through numerous rounds of testing and came to the conclusion she suffered from acid reflux and Crohns disease. Both were brought on by stress, food choices and not taking care of her body.

Allie spent five agonizing days in the hospital while her doctor tried to get her disease under control. It was the worst experience in her life. There were times when she thought she’d die and sometimes she silently prayed she would. It was devastating and debilitating, but she swore she wouldn’t let it control her again.

Once Dr. Robinson managed to get the disease under control she looked pointedly at Allie.

“Look, your job is slowly killing you. Your body can’t handle the stress or long hours you’re demanding of it. You need to make some lifestyle changes or I’m just going to see you back here in a few months,” she’d said.

The reality of the doctor’s words was like a knife being twisted in her chest. She didn’t know how to not be on the go 24/7. That was the way she’d lived her life since turning sixteen.

Allie pressed even harder on the gas pedal.

She couldn’t get to the beach house fast enough. The idea of spending two weeks of quiet, soaking up the sun and sand appealed to her on so many levels. When her friend Pam told her she could use her beach house, Allie had immediately jumped on the offer.

The next few weeks would give her time to readjust to being unemployed and hopefully clear her mind. Eventually she’d have to decide what direction she wanted to take with her life. She had enough money saved to get her through six months of unemployment, but Allie didn’t want to totally deplete her savings. It was there as a safety net, nothing more.

Quitting had never been a word Allie thought she’d use, but her boss left her no other choice. She’d had a career as a marketing executive for almost five years before she’d up and resigned.

“Asshole!” She gripped the steering wheel, fighting back the tears stinging her eyes. She refused to cry. She wouldn’t give that shithead the satisfaction of beating her down. She wiped away the drop with the back of her hand.

“Screw you, Marty.”

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Guest Blogger - Angela Aaron



1. How did you start your writing career?

I started when I was nine years old writing happily ever after stories about my favorite television show "Here Comes the Brides." No kidding. I was so intrigued even then with wanting Candy and Jeremy to get together that I filled notebooks with scenarios of their union.

2. Tell us about your favorite character from your books.

My favorite character is Aedan from an upcoming book. He's a huge, hunky, Highlander who has waited eleven hundred years to be with the woman he loved.

3. Tell us about your current release.

My current and first release is Pleasure Island, published by Noble Romance. Pleasure Island is about a woman, who finds herself at a sex resort on a remote tropical island. She is aware the business is all about fantasies but can't help falling for the mysterious man she unexpectedly made love to in the island's club. After believing something special was happening between her and the mystery man, she discovers his attentions were nothing more than business. Or were they?

4. Tell us about your next release.

The next realease is a full length fantasy/medieval/contemporary novel about a hunky warrior that is given the gift of immortality to wait for the return of the woman he loves. Of course, all is not well when he finally meets her as she has no idea who he is. The story is about her awakening and recollection of a past long ago.

5. Has someone helped or mentored you in your writing career?

Heather Peters was someone I wrote fanfic with in the 90's and it was her prompting that encouraged me to submit my first manuscript to Noble. She has been my biggest cheerleader. I would also like to mention Bryl Tyne, my noble editor whose expertise made me look good.

6. Who is your favorite author?

Boy, that is a hard one, I love so many. Right now I'd have to say Karen Marie Moning. I love her Fever series.

7. What is the hardest part of writing your books?

The stories come easy for me. The hardest part, hands down is the editing. I'm horrible with mechanics and spelling. It is such a chore for me to clean up my manuscript. This is where I get discouraged the most and in the past this is where I would put the story down and never do anything about it.

8. What books have most influenced your life?

"Sweet Savage Love." My first taste of what a romance novel was. I would sneak it from my mom's bedside table and would read it when she wasn't home. Funny, but I've read thousands of books, and that one still stands out as a definitive moment of change in my life.

9. How do you develop your plots and your characters? Do you use any set formula?

I mostly write on the fly. I'm learning to plot, but I hate it. I like the spontaneity of just writing. Plots feel confining in a way, but then sometimes I do get a bit lost with where to go. I do usually do a character outlines for my main characters. There are pros and cons to my method. The trick is to just do what works for you.

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

I'm a beginning writer myself. I'm still learning. Learn from other writers and people with experience. Don't be afraid to follow your dreams and take a chance. For so long I was apprehensive about sending my manuscript to a publisher. I wish I had done it sooner. Don't be afraid.

Blurb:

When Cassie Douglas unknowingly arrives at a sultry tropical island resort where the sole business is to provide the perfect pleasure fantasy, Cassie finds it difficult to overcome her inhibitions and join in the fun.

Ryan MacKenna isn't about to let the feisty red-head disrupt his life or his business. He lives firmly by his set of self imposed rules which keep business and pleasure very separate. But from the first moment he meets Ms. Douglas, he is in danger of breaking every rule.

Excerpt:

The music's pounding beat immediately drew Cassie in. She loved to dance and found she loved to dance with Ryan even more. He immediately swept her up in the sensual rhythms. She couldn't help become aroused from the way he held her, ran his hands over her, pulled her tightly against his rocking hips. He made no bones about the fact he was hard for her and ground his body against hers every chance he could. She too found her own body relishing the contact with him, and after two hours of tantalizing dance play, Cassie was panting with unfulfilled desire.
"Ryan." She spoke fully exasperated and loud enough for him to hear. "I can't take anymore."
"Oh, thank God." He growled the words, grabbed her hand, and dragged her to the rear of the club where they slipped out the employee exit.
As soon as they were out the door, Ryan pinned her against the side of the building with his hard body. His mouth came down on hers, crushing her lips against his, his tongue demanding entrance. His hands roamed over every inch of her body, stroking, and squeezing, tugging down the straps of her dress until he exposed her breasts to the humid, night air. They were making love, right here, against the building, and reason fled fast in the face of the frenzied passion between them.
"Tell me you have nothing on underneath this dress." Ryan's voice was thick and ragged with desire.
"No."
"No, what?"
"Nothing . . . ."
With one hand, Ryan hurriedly grabbed bunches of Cassie's dress and lifted it above her hips, while his other hand fumbled with the zipper of his trousers.

Monday, May 9, 2011

More Cover Art


This is the cover art for my next Loose Id release on May 17th. It was originally All or Nothing, but we changed the title to Hit Me.

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Busy Day

Another work day for me. I’ll have to work until 2am only to be up at 7am to work another full day tomorrow. UGH! I guess I need to be happy I have a job.
On top of working I’m throwing a birthday party for my daughter and granddaughter. My mom and son should arrive early afternoon for a weekend visit. I hope to squeeze some writing time in while decorating the house with Dora the Explorer and Spongebob (the 14 yr old wanted to feel like a kid too) LOL
Hope everyone enjoys their Saturday!

Friday, May 6, 2011

Working

Sorry I’ve been MIA. Work is crazy and I’m still trying to finish this book. Plan to take my conference calls from the deck and enjoy the warm sunshine today.
Sex on the Beach will be available May 11th! I can’t believe it’s releasing so soon. YAY!
Happy Friday!

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

New Cover Art - I Haz It



I asked the cover department for two things and they gave them to me - Angelo and the beach. :o) Edits are done and hopefully I'll have a release date soon.

Okay, so I lost a week of writing being sick. I'm under a deadline to sub the book I'm working on...it's due the 15th. YIKES!!! So, you know I'll be busy writing.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Guest Blogger - S. E. Holden


Sneaky Relationships Perceived by the Male Mind by S.E. Holden

Relationships are sneaky. One minute everything is fine. The one you love snuggles up close on the couch and strings a trail of barely-there kisses across the base of your neck, hand rubbing across the tight muscles of your chest. The contact feels great after a long, hard daily grind and gets your blood pumping. The thick artery in your neck throbs. She finds it, pulsing just under your tender skin, and traces the rhythm upwards with the tip of her tongue. Mmmmm. Fingers working lower, she explores your growing excitement. Blood rushes out of your brain, racing south like a flock of horny geese avoiding the winter chill. Nips and playful bites along your jaw line lead her mouth to yours. The thought patterns in your brain wander out of control due to the lack of blood. She climbs into your lap and winds her legs around your waist, rubbing herself against your crotch.
She whispers something, but the lack of blood in your brain has affected your universal translator and you have no idea what she said. Like most things that you don't hear or pretend you don't hear, you ignore it and hope it goes away. There are better things on your mind, and your lap, right now. Your arms close around her, pulling her tight against you. You kiss her neck, suck her ear lobe into your mouth and work it gently between your teeth.
You hear a groan, at least you think it's a groan of pleasure. Encouraged you slide your hands under her shirt, reaching for the clasp of her bra. You didn't notice that she stopped what she was doing until she pulls away and stares at you with that questioning look in her eye, one eyebrow raised, hands balled on hips. You stare back – a deer in the headlights with a boner.
"Well, did you?"
Uh oh. Did I what? Things were looking good until she snuck something in there, trying to fake me out with a change up, but threw the slider instead. That's just not right. Damn. Why does she always have to ruin it?
Panic sets in. What didn't I do? Shit. Is it her birthday? Anniversary? What? You get angry as the blood surges back to your brain…with an attitude.
Her faces clouds in disappointment as she reads the thoughts scampering across your mind through your eyes. She knows the answer before you can come up with an excuse for whatever it is you didn't do/get/say/tell/(insert verb here). Without a word she climbs off and walks into the other room leaving you high and dry and in the dark.

Like I said, relationships are sneaky. One minute things are going one way, but in a flash they can turn ugly. I chose the man in the above example as the inattentive villain because I'm a guy and can relate to the lack of cohesive thought that is possible during certain, uh, engorged circumstances. And I'm sure, or I'm sure I've been told, that a lapse like that cannot possibly happen to a woman. Hmmm… Has something like this ever happened to you? One minute things are going great, but in the next disaster strikes over something fairly innocuous? Leave a comment and give us the highlights.
In my latest Thursday Night story, The Wet Reunion of Two Souls, things don't go as planned and spiral out of control. Expectations are shattered and their married future placed in jeopardy over a joyous event. Will they be able to reconcile before all is lost? Check it out to see.


S.E. Holden Bio
Since he was a kid, S.E. Holden wanted to be an author and explored many genres through high school and college. After greasing the gears of the corporate machine for many years, he escaped the Information Technology vortex to focus full-time on his writing dream. A romantic at heart, S.E. loves to write about committed couples struggling with and overcoming life's obstacles only to emerge stronger. The fact that they have steamy, mind-blowing sex along the way makes it even better.
S.E. lives with his wife and two children on the west coast of Florida.

S.E.'s Contact Links:
Email: seholden@verizon.net
Web: http://www.seholden.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001173999283&v=wall
Twitter: @seholden25


The Wet Reunion of Two Souls Blurb
On a glorious Thursday afternoon, May’s dream of having a baby is finally coming true. Bursting with excitement, she’s eager to share the news. But her best laid plans disintegrate when Jim returns home from work with a different idea…one that didn’t include her. Doubting whether they still share the same dream of a family, May contemplates her future with Jim until the rain washes in an unexpected tryst. Can their relationship weather the storm of emotions unleashed.

The Wet Reunion of Two Souls Excerpt
A bright flash leapt through the window chased closely by a deep, bass rumble that rattled the wine glasses on the table. The sudden brilliance startled her, and she stepped back.
Jim whirled around. "Like I said…it’s Thursday night. Bob asked me to sub on their bowling team, and I need to leave in a minute or two to get there in time for practice. You know I need a few frames to get the arm and knees working right." Lightning flickered, followed seconds later by the boom. "I’m sure I told you about this last week."
Mouth agape, she stared at him. Disbelief and disappointment teamed up, overwhelming her. "But…I..." She paused, voice quivering, tears threatening. Her right hand drifted to her belly. "It’s been so long since we had a night in and I really need to talk to you."
Jim spun away and strode to the closet to get his bowling bag. "Sorry, hon, but I promised Bob over a month ago. He talked about it every time I saw him at work. I have to go. The guys are counting on me."
"But Jim, our work schedules haven’t matched up in weeks. We barely have time to say hello let alone anything else and tonight was our night to catch up."
Grabbing the handle of his red two-ball bag, Jim wheeled it toward the front door, looking anywhere but at May. She stepped in front of him, blocking his easy escape. She placed her hand on his arm and gazed up into his eyes. "Please don't go." Please choose me and the baby over your friends.
Jim stood up straight, closed his eyes and blew out a breath, long and slow. "Look, I’ll be back in a couple hours and we’ll get caught up." He smiled his best sorry-I-let-you-down-again-but-I’ll-make-it-up-to-you smile—a smile that had been showing up far too often of late. She cringed. "How does that sound?"
"Quite frankly, it sucks."

The Wet Reunion of Two Souls Buy Links
Breathless Press - http://www.breathlesspress.com/erotic/the-wet-reunion-of-two-souls.html
All Romance eBooks - http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thewetreunionoftwosouls-544156-144.html
1 Place for Romance - http://1placeforromance.com/romantic-fiction/the-wet-reunion-of-two-souls/prod_4256.html