Diving in to 2010

Well, 2009 is almost over and it's time to think of the New Year ahead. Resolutions I make usually get broken so this year I'm setting goals instead of making resolutions. Knowing me it probably won't be any different but a girl can hope, can't she?

I'd like to finish at least one MS this year so beginning now I'm going to write every single day if it kills me. Even if I write only one sentence a day it will add up to more than what I did this entire year. So my #1 goal in 2010 is to sit in my chair and write one sentence a day. Surely I can do at least that much. And for once I may even exceed my own expectations.

So, here I go. I'm Diving in to 2010.

It's a Wonderful Life

I watched my all time favorite Christmas movie the other night; "It's a Wonderful Life". I watch it every year, and every year I cry at the end. But it's not the actors or the set or the cinematography. It's the story itself.

Everything we do or say touches those around us. I love the idea that even I can have an impact on others in my life and I hope that impact is a good one. Sometimes we all wish our lives could be different, as if we missed out on something somewhere down the line. But in the end, our lives are exactly as they're supposed to be, no matter what we go through.

So, when you think things aren't going well in your life and you want to give up, think about all the people who have crossed your path along the way and how your not being there would affect them. I bet you'll be surprised that something as small as a friendly smile when someone is down could be the one thing that keeps that person going. And remember, It's a Wonderful Life.

Missionary

This young man is about to embark on a very interesting journey. He's leaving next week to spend four months in Nicaragua doing missionary work with the locals. If he's able, he'll be sending information about what's going on and I'll post here whenever I can. Stephen is a bright young man with a very generous heart. Good luck, Stephen, and be safe.

Christmas Memories

I remember one Christmas wanting a diamond necklace more than anything in the world. I was about 10 or 11 and I told Mom, even though I knew we could never afford one.

I woke up Christmas morning and we all gathered around the tree. There were no boxes small enough to be a diamond necklace and I was disappointed. I had hoped that maybe, just maybe, that necklace would be there.

All the gifts were opened except this huge box. Mom brought it to me and said it was mine, something I really wanted and she knew I'd love it.

I couldn't imagine what it could possibly be. It was heavy and when I opened the box, I found nothing but old newspapers and sweet potatoes. I remember looking up at mom and wondering what on earth was going on. She told me to keep going and so I took everything out and sat it next to me on the floor. The deeper I got into the box, the more confused I became. Finally, down at the very bottom, was a small jewelry box; my diamond necklace. I was so excited I couldn't contain myself. I got what I wanted and mom got to see my face move from disappointment, to confusion, to excitement.

Isn't that what we all strive for during Christmas? To see that the gifts we choose, whether something they've asked for or something we chose especially for them, give so much joy to those we love.

I lost that necklace (thank goodness it wasn't a real diamond) b/c I wasn't really old enough to treasure something like that. But the memory of how I got it will never be lost. And that's the true treasure.

Merry Christmas, Everyone!!!

I'm Dreaming

Hmmm...to be snuggled up in a bay window, watching the snow fall outside, wrapped up in a blanket with a warm cup of cocoa, Christmas music in the background, and a good book.

I could look around the room at the tree decorated with memories from the past and swags of greenery, holly and poinsettas draped all over. A fire would be crackling in the fireplace where the stockings are hanging, full of my favorite chocolate and small gifts just waiting to be unwrapped.

Ah, to be so relaxed and content. Too bad I don't have snow, a bay window, cocoa, a book (good or bad), decorations or gifts.

Nope. I'm at work. But I can still dream.

Family Pictures

We did family pictures this weekend. They turned out great! I'm so proud of my family. The kids are doing great and my husband and I are still going strong. We're so blessed and I'm thankful for all we have. Here are just a few of my favorites.

This one's me and the hubby.
Aren't we a cute couple?


My three adorable babies.


And this is the most beautiful baby in the world. Yeah, I'm a little prejudiced, but so what?



This is my son's family. So sweet.


And this is the whole bunch.
What a great group of people.

Blurb

No ordinary holiday in the country...

When wayward, sophisticated Christabel is forced to take an extended country holiday she foresees only long days of bucolic boredom and sexual ennui. But she has reckoned without the hidden agenda of Nicholas, her deviously sensual husband, and the presence of unexpected stimuli within the grounds of a brooding old mansion house. Almost immediately, she is drawn into a web of transgressive eroticism, where power and pleasure shift and change like the shadows playing across Collingwood's secretive walls. Swept in with her are the delusional but libidinous Daniel, a prisoner of his own obsession with the past; his beautiful wild-child sister, Augusta; and the golden, ambiguous Jamie, personal assistant to the all-controlling Nicholas.

As the summer passes, and ever darker and more challenging liaisons unfold, Christabel quickly comes to relish her enforced sabbatical.

Excerpt

Reviews

Available from Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk.

8 Ways Onto The Naughty List
Rita Sawyer
ISBN Number: 978-1-897560-23-5
Genre: Holiday Romance
Length: Novella
Price: $2.99

Blurb:

Patsy has lusted after her boss for years, but lately it's getting harder to keep that desire hidden. She decides to quit before she makes a fool of herself. Her boss Dexter refuses to accept her resignation letting her out of her contract. So she sets out to get fired without actually screwing up her job, which means some big changes around the office.

Dexter finally admits he can't ignore the way he feels about Patsy anymore. He calls her into his office intending to ask her out to dinner and hopefully bring their relationship onto a more personal level. Before he can say anything she quits. He refuses to let her out of her contract. This gives him twelve weeks to get her to change her mind, so when she starts changing things around the office he gives it a chance hoping to show her another side of him.

Available Now at Blade Publishing
and ARe

"The Scroll Thief: a Tale of Ithian" by R. F. Long

Love is the wiliest thief of all.

A Tale of Ithian

Malachy and his sister rely on his talents as a thief to survive the dangerous streets of Klathport, former capital of the once-great kingdom of Ithian. Stealing a few papers should have been a simple job. Instead, it nearly costs their lives and throws them into an improbable alliance with a shape-shifting official, a desert tribeswoman, and a healer of enchanting beauty.

Cerys is far more than a simple healer—and the roots of her mission go deeper into the past than anyone can know. She needs Malachy’s skills to recover a stolen scroll, one that can be used to rewrite history and, in the wrong hands, release the dark powers of the Demon Realm.

Her mission was supposed to atone for a dreadful, long-ago act. Instead, it unleashes a chain of events which sees them pursued through city and desert by the fearsome Dune Witch and a killer known only as His Lordship. Romance, tragedy, and adventure blend in a tale of a magical land on the brink of war, and five unlikely allies who, by putting their lives—and their hearts—on the line, have the opportunity to finally set things right.

But at a terrible cost.

Warning: Contains scenes of graphic violence and torture, captivating magic and beauty, two dashing heroes, three gutsy heroines, several love stories and a heartbreaking sacrifice.

BUY IT HERE!
Read an excerpt HERE.

"The Christmas She Rules"
Control is her kink…and she’s losing it.

It’s another gloomy Christmas for Pamela Dane. Not only is it the anniversary of a dark period in her life, but all her friends had the nerve to hook up. It’s not easy for a female Domme to find a playmate. Maybe The Cage in San Francisco will be the perfect place to escape—and find a willing man to chase away the memories.

Christian Nolan is at the BDSM club for the hell of it. Yet the minute Mistress Dane takes control of him, she not only stuns him with her talent, he stuns himself with his willingness to surrender. Her offer to meet him there for another night is intriguing—and frightening.

Pamela’s session with Chris shakes her to the core, resurrecting memories she’s afraid to face. But Chris isn’t willing to let her past haunt her…even if it leaves his heart in tatters.

Warning: Hot, strong man on his knees, which will bring you to yours. Strap-on action, anal play, lots of leather and tons of tension. Alpha male who likes to do whatever the right woman tells him to do, including another woman.


BUY IT HERE!
Want a taste? Read an excerpt HERE.

December

December is here and I haven't accomplished any of my New Year's resolutions I made back in January. Like, I'm supposed to have finished at least two MS's but haven't even gotten past chapter 3 on either of the two I've started. And now, here it is, only one month away from making new resolutions. Better get on the ball, girlie!!

Black Friday

Good Friday morning to everyone! It's the biggest shopping day of the year. Tons of people all up before the crack of dawn, waiting in line, fighting over being first in the door for that awesome deal.

Normally I wouldn't get up that early for anything in the world. But this morning I was up at 2am, dressing to be at the store by 3. Turns out that Sam's Club only gets about 50 people waiting in line unlike Wal-Mart's and Best Buy's hundreds. (I saw people camped out in front of Best Buy early last night. How crazy is that?) But Sam's Club (and several other stores) had an awesome deal on the Acer Aspire One 10" Netbook and I got one! I'm so excited. Even though I have to work today I brought my new toy with me and I've been playing on it all morning. Yay!

And to top it off, it's Friday and my grand-daughter is at my house waiting for me to come home to play. It's gonna be a great day!

RWA 2010

OMG! I just got the hotsheet for RWA and they've set speakers for the 2010 conference. Nora Roberts will be Keynote Speaker. I'm so excited. I love her books, like everyone else. I can't wait! Other speakers include Special Luncheon Speaker: Jayne Ann Krentz, Librarians’ Day Luncheon Speaker: Sherrilyn Kenyon, Awards Ceremony Emcee: Sabrina Jeffries

Oh, and they've set the prices for this year, too. For members: $425 for early registration; $475 for late registration; $575 for onsite registration. For non-members: $500 for early registration; $550 for late registration; $650 for onsite registration.

I'm definitely going this year. I'm so excited. Now, to finish this MS before then. *smile*

Triad of Hope

Contemporary, Inspirational, Interracial/Multicultural

Juliana, Rosa, and Shani--three very different women with a common bond: all are on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and hope. Join them as they conquer fears, forgive past wrongs, and come to terms with their inner selves. Do difficulties in life really make one stronger? Can a shattered heart ever heal enough to love again? When one's life seems hopeless, what lengths will one go to find hope?

BUY HERE

Celebrate my release with me at Author Island Cyber Launch PARTY HERE

November 19th All Day!

LOTS of prizes to giveaway!

Adelle Laudan

After defeating an obsessed opponent with some decidedly kinky plans for her, Leah Wright--Iron Maiden--finds herself intrigued by the idea of bondage. She's been in charge all her life and giving up control even for an evening sounds heavenly. Problem is, when you're as strong as Leah, who can possibly restrain you?

But Leah has underestimated fellow hero--and lover--Victor Kruger, the Black Knight. He knows just what to do. It's a simple matter of applying the correct leverage. The game they play is as much mental as physical--and win or lose, Leah's going to have an experience she'll never forget.

To read an excerpt, or to purchase a digital version, click here.

For more titles from Gail Roark, click here.

Stephanie Adkins new contemporary erotic romance suspense novella, Between Heaven and Hell, is now available from Liquid Silver Books!


Blurb: Somewhere between Heaven and Hell … there are nightmares. After being forced to confront an abusive ex-lover in court, Elaina Richmond wanted nothing more than to get away from the trial and the nightmares that came with it. Escaping to her Aunt and Uncle's vineyard in the rolling hills of Sonoma, California, she is reunited with her first love, Caden Russell. An old flame is rekindled. Though Heaven is found in his arms once again, Elaina soon discovers that the Devil has a way of finding you … especially when there's hope to destroy.


Click here to read an excerpt.

Click here to purchase.

Visit Stephanie at www.stephanieadkins.com

Death took Jason from Clarissa, and she blames herself. Night after night, she throws herself into the arms of other men—men who abuse and pleasure her, but never take her far enough. She is waiting for the one who will take her over the edge and into death, so she can be reunited with Jason.

Death didn’t take Jason far enough. Every night, Jason watches. His immortal self is trapped inside the club Clarissa owns, and he longs to be with her once more.

Death is a dark angel. A handsome man. The promise of violence in his eyes draws Clarissa to him. Will a single night in bed with Death be all it takes to destroy Jason and Clarissa’s love neverending, or will it be just the beginning?



Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: BDSM theme and content, violence, voyeurism.

(Authors note: This book also contains hot angels who sometimes do bad and/or dirty things.)

Buy it now at Loose-Id

NaNo Angst

Ok, so I've had to ditch Nano. Well, I'm still writing, but I'm not really participating even though I signed up and am supposed to be officially working it. My laptop died and I can't post my final words when it's over. So, even if I write it all out long hand, which I'm doing, there's no way for me to prove my wordcount at the end.

So, I'm writing but I'm not participating. Of course, I'll still have the satisfaction of knowing I did it!!

http://samhainpublis.../love-s-alchemy
“Love's Alchemy” by Ciar Cullen
Read An Excerpt Online
Genre: Paranormal Romance

ISBN: 978-1-60504-690-7
Length: Novel
Price: 5.50
Publication Date: November 6, 2009
Cover art by Anne Cain

She holds the key to unlock his past—or unleash hell.

Sidra Patmos has the ability to see the real underbelly of lower Manhattan—a horrifying world where wraiths, demons and a few quirky mortals battle for supremacy. Desperate, she seeks out a paranormal researcher to tell her why her life is a waking nightmare.

Instead of answers, her meeting with the dark and irresistible Van Barlowe unleashes a chain of events far more dangerous than her blackest visions. And a desire she can barely manage to hold at arm’s length.

After three desperate centuries, Van has finally found the Alchemist—Sidra. Somewhere locked deep inside her lies the knowledge that will rescue his family from ruin. The only way to reawaken her abilities is to hold his enemies at bay long enough to convince her to step through the mists of time.

Redemption waits there, and a timeless bond ignited by the undeniable pull between them. The missing ingredient: Sidra’s willingness to risk that Van’s attraction runs deeper than sexual chemistry…

Warning: This book is not work safe! Reading about sexy immortal heroes and feisty demon hunters getting it on can minimize productivity, increase daydreaming and lead to frustration eating.

Unleashed Temptation – Available Today from Ellora’s Cave

After finding out her boyfriend has been cheating on her with her boss, Carly decides her life needs a makeover. She trades in her winter coat for a bikini and heads south to Miami, Florida. Almost as soon as she arrives, she falls in lust with the sexiest man she’s ever laid eyes on. Too bad he’s her new boss.

Alpha werewolf Nick gave up hope of finding his mate a century ago. When sexy redhead Carly comes to work for him, she disrupts his entire world. Although he desperately wants to come clean about what he is, he keeps running into problems. Like the fact that an ancient enemy has set his sights on Carly. Nick discovers he’ll go to any lengths to keep her safe. Even if it means losing her in the process.


Read excerpt here.

Purchase digital version here.

For more titles from Savannah Stuart, click here.

For a chance to win a copy of Unleashed Temptation, visit Sarai J’s Blog here.

New Release

The Forbidden Chamber, from Samhain Publishing, Available today.

“Your life is forfeit if you open that door.”

All her life, Lady Isabel Colven has followed the path laid out for her, content to look neither left nor right for excitement. Her future holds a dutiful, passionless marriage to some nice young man, and she’s content…until the exotic and compelling Lord Rukh Hayle threatens her maidenly reserve. Rumor paints him as a wife-murderer; desire tempts her to look past his aura of danger.

Rukh refuses to let his family’s curse kill a third bride, but Isabel awakens the Raven within him, compels him to take her to wife—and to bed—despite the secrets that live under his skin. That lie is locked in the darkest corners of the manor, waiting to be unleashed. Their lusty union arouses the curse, entangling Isabel in an erotic tug of war that can only end in her destruction. There is no escape for either of them. Not from his family’s shadowy history. Not from demons imagined and real. And not from the choice Rukh faces to save his bride from a fate worse than death…

Warning: This gothic contains heady kisses that lead to ruin, passionate sex on a desk chair, a mysterious husband who may be a murderer, a cursed family of raven shifters, and an unspeakable evil hidden in the closet.

Read the excerpt.
The Forbidden Chamber is available from Samhain at MBaM.

NaNoWriMo

I'm getting ready to participate in NaNoWriMo in November. Hopefully my new WIP will be the one!

Workshop

New Release

Available Now From Freya's Bower!

The Rock Star's Retreat by Belle McClain

Cassandra Geoffrey runs In The Pines Campground six months of the year and spends the other six alone on the West Virginia mountain. She isn’t completely happy with situation, but she loves her wacky, close knit hometown and the man of her dreams doesn’t seem to be appearing.

Until he does.

Jason Callisto is the lead guitarist from Touchstone. Two years ago, his supermodel girlfriend dumped him in People Magazine – in a side bar. Since then he’s been impossible to live with. So much so that his manager exiles him the West Virginia before he breaks up the band on the eve of the Grammys.

Cass sees Jason as the adventure of a lifetime. Jason sees Cass as an ego boost.

Can they accept the risk to reach for more?

Warning: Contains two consenting adults alone in a cabin on the side of a mountain, a few wacky townspeople and a plot twist that took the writer by surprise.

Read an excerpt here

You can buy it here

Scent of Cin by Ella Drake

Death brought Cin her love, a sexy half-demon she can't resist

Half-demon Vedo resurrects the newly-dead Cinnamon Murphy, detective, bane of the Hellions — and all woman. Vedo needs her to find his son, product of a forced union with a powerful demoness, but Vedo gets more than he bargains for. Once Cin is no longer a shade, her scent becomes a lure his Nephilim nature can’t resist. Cin finds that being raised from the dead gives her uncontrollable cravings for heat, especially for the hot man who needs her help, a man she’s sworn to kill.

Before publication, Scent of Cin was the 2008 novella winner of the Stroke of Midnight Contest, sponsored by Passionate Ink.

This erotic paranormal romance is available at Cobblestone Press.
Excerpt and more information available at www.elladrake.com.

Random

My laptop died and I've been without a computer (other than work) for over a week. Every time I thought of something I needed to look up online I remembered I couldn't and it nearly drove me nuts. I miss my laptop.

Had a customer who really ticked me off on Friday evening just as I was about to leave. First off I saw them drive up and the wife came in to pick up a garage sale kit (signs, stickers, change apron...etc) that we give out with each ad placed. We're limited on supplies so we give 1 kit per ad. She asked for more and I explained that I couldn't give out more because of our limits. She left but a second later her husband came in asking for a kit. I was gonna give him the benefit of the doubt because I hadn't seen him get out of the truck so I asked him if he was with the lady that had just left. He says, "What lady?". So, I asked if he was in the brown pick-up. He says, "No. I'm in the red truck." That's when I got ticked off. An employee got out of that truck before the wife came in and I knew he was lying and trying to scam me. Even then I would have been nice and explained to him that we give 1 kit per ad but that I'd give him extra signs. But he looked me in the eye and said, "Just give me the damn kits." I was so shocked I started to go blurry and my mouth hung open for a second before I could say anything. I told him I'd give him extra signs (as he interjected, "Damn right you will") and that was it. OMG! I can't believe people are so mean. And all over a stupid change apron for a garage sale! Grrr....

Yesterday was the anniversary of the first date my husband and I ever went on. We've been together for 6 years now (married for 2). And I believe we'll make it many more. He might get on my nerves sometimes and I'm sure I get on his, but I love him and can't wait to see what the rest of our lives brings.

BANGED UP is NOW available!

Banged Up was released at Liquid Silver Books!

BLURB:

Mace Walker can’t wait to get home.

Being buried deep undercover for the past two years, on the most complex case of his career, has torn him down physically and mentally. Now the FBI agent has come home to recover after having his leg badly injured from a gunshot wound. Arriving home late one night, his relief is short-lived as he’s faced with a stranger pointing a gun to his head, acting like he is the one who doesn’t belong there!

Colby Parks, a biochemist at the local university, had come to town a year earlier to escape an abusive relationship. She vows never to put herself in that situation again.

Then the perfect opportunity comes along: house-sitting for Mace’s sister while making the house she purchased habitable. But she couldn’t anticipate this big snag: the one wearing the tight Levi’s and worn leather jacket, looking like he had just escaped prison.

Being forced to share a house creates sparks between them in more ways than one. However, things take a turn when their pasts catch up to them, threatening to pull them apart forever.

READ AN EXCERPT HERE

READ THE BEGINNING OF CHAPTER ONE HERE

BUY IT HERE!

Cute Pics

I got these in an email this morning and just wanted to share. Happy Hump Day, Everyone!

How Humiliating?!?!!


Hey, you're nose is wetter than mine!!!


OMG! What have I done?


Oh, Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!!


Mmmmm! Cake!!


I said I'd share! Sheesh!!


Ahhh! This is the life!


What are you looking at?

Myla by Moonlight is now available from Samhain Publishing




Magic bites... and its name is Myla.

Created at Prince Taric’s birth, Myla is a spell, an enchantment designed to appear and protect him when he needs it most. She has always been content to do her duty…until one night of forbidden passion leaves her longing to experience life—and love—as a mortal woman. Yet the risk is too great. Even if her blood runs as red as his, she can never give him the one thing he needs: a child.

Taric’s blessing—and his curse—is knowing the kingdom’s future depends on his producing an heir to continue the bloodline. His bond with Myla has always been that of protector and protected. When it suddenly becomes something much more, he unwittingly sentences his people to certain death.


An old enemy is plotting to destroy all he holds dear: his lands, his people, his father, and his lover. And this time, even if they fight tooth and blade, their shared magic may not be enough to save them…

Click here or here to read an excerpt.
Click here or on the cover to purchase.

Resisting Kane is now available from Phaze Books!

Past inequities are hard to forget...and harder still to forgive. After fifteen years, high school classmates Madison Carey and Terence Kane are forced to work together to stop a madman whose sole purpose is to seek revenge...with her life as the prize.

Click HERE to read an excerpt.

Click HERE to buy from Phaze Books.

Visit Stephanie at: www.stephanieadkins.com

Pleasuring a Pirate coming from Loose Id

Blurb:

Seraphina—"Sera"—Jones won the vacation of a lifetime: an all-expenses-paid trip to the Pleasure Planet, a place where her every desire will be fulfilled. No one will give a damn about her curves, her mocha skin, or her crazy sexual fantasies. Sera and her sister are all set to enjoy her good luck until a pair of pirate hotties that look at her like she’s their own personal fantasy hijacks their ship.

Ace and Ryas are space pirates out to do a quick jack and run. Simple. Get in, ransom the cargo, and get out before getting caught. One look at Sera and they know they'll be taking on more booty than they planned. Hers. But now Ace and Ryas will have to prove if they are strong enough to keep the treasure they’ve found.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, ménage (m/f/m).

Link: http://www.loose-id....irate-1013.aspx

I Gotta Get Our More

My legs are so sore. And all I did was climb a few stairs! Saturday night I went with a friend to the Keith Urban/Sugarland concert at the Sommet Center and Sunday morning my left leg was hurting like I'd walked the stairmaster for an hour.

Our seats weren't that great; top of the building in the nosebleed section. We took the escalator up to the 3rd floor and walked around the building to our section. Then we only climbed about 20 stairs. Of course they were VERY steep and we went up and down 3 times because we couldn't find our seats. I can't figure out why it would hurt so much!

My exercise schedule sucks. I never used to have to work at being thin. Now every thing I put in my mouth goes straight to my tummy and hips. What happens when you get past 35? Is there like some sort of sensor that goes off and won't allow you to eat what you used to? I mean, come on. Can't I at least keep the one vice I have? I need my chocolate for goodness sake. I don't smoke, I don't drink. I gotta have something.

But maybe the key is just to get out more. Get up off my hiney and do something! How about you? Any exercise woes?

Alexander Forsytheʼs house is haunted. One wouldn’t think a hundred and three year old vampire would let a little ghost bother him, but this particular house guest has outstayed her welcome.

Alex detests witchcraft, but after discovering his ghost, Abbie, is the ancestor of the local witch, Willow Cowan, his choices are limited. Alex calls on Willow to help evict his ghostly tenant, but he begins to wonder if the sexy spell-caster might be more trouble than the ghost.

Willow thinks Alex needs her magical abilities to remove the spirit from his house. What she doesnʼt realize is that his specter is her long lost ancestor. Sheʼs not sure she wants to help the gorgeous vampire in his ghost hunt, until she sees a long lost family heirloom on display in Alexʼs house.

Alex is adamant that the necklace belongs to him.. Itʼs been in his family since it was created for the wife of a distant ancestor. The necklace had been given to every wife of the first born son. Heʼs reluctant to give away his precious heirloom to a witch.

Can they learn to work together and get past their differences? Or will Abbie be the one obstacle they can’t remove?


You can check it out at The Wild Rose Press. Remember, it’s available on Wednesday August 26, 2009!

For more information on me and what I'm working on, stop by my website. I'd love the company!

Old Barns

I love old barns.

They have so much character.

They're a tribute to times past and even though they're falling apart people think them beautiful and want to make them a part of their lives by recycling them into new buildings.

I want my life to be like that.

Someday, even though I'm falling apart, I want someone to look at me and remember the times I touched their lives in some small way.

How about you? How do you want your life reflected in years to come?

The Silver Casket
by
Debbie Mumford

Cat Logan, a young American with a recent degree in medieval literature, travels to Scotland to discover her Celtic roots. She finds more than she bargained for when a mysterious silver casket (rumored to hold the desiccated heart of a long dead Scottish laird) transports her back in time to the 1400s and the man whose heart she holds in her hands.

Publisher: Freya's Bower
Genre: Time Travel/Historical
Rating: Tangy
Book Length: Novella

Available Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Procrastination?

Saturday morning I was in that state between sleep and awake and found myself pondering why I procrastinate so much on my writing.

When I was a kid I loved to write. I'd write anything, from copying down other books to making up my own stories. I had a beautiful place to write and would take my notebook and pencil down to the pond and just lay in the grass writing all day. I loved it.

Then I got married and had kids and started pushing my urge to write down to the bottom of my list of things to do. I never took the time to write just for myself anymore. I would make out lists of things that needed to be done and I would occassionally write a poem, but for the most part anything writing related was tamped down so hard that it finally quit rearing it's head. Sort of like my self esteem suffered from my husband's emotional abuse.

Over the years I've slowly started writing again. But I also notice that I still have that urge to tamp down my desire to write even when I have time and something to write about. And I don't know how to stop it.

Is it just procrastination that every writer goes through or is it just a habit that I've developed over the years? Is there a way to overcome this "problem"? Do you suffer from the same thing?

The Last First

It's here. My last child's last First Day of School. HNM is a Sr this year. Next year will not find me getting her up and motivated for another school year. No more school clothes to buy, no more supplies, no more homework help. Those are good things, but I'll miss them just the same.

I'm feeling a bit nostalgic about all this. Next year she'll graduate and the perhaps even move out. College might be in her future but she hasn't completely decided yet. All I know is that this is the last time I'll wake her up on the first day of school. My baby is growing up and I'm not sure I like it.

Do you remember your last first day of school?

Random Stuff

Check out a new letter from Silla over at Silla's Secret.

It's another beautiful day. The sun is shining and it's not too hot. With any luck it will stay this way a few days.

Work is going ok. I'm training a new hire this week. Although, I still haven't figured out why we need extra help. The phone's aren't that busy as far as I know. Of course, I'm not on them as much as anyone else is, either.

Home is good. JAM is home, the baby is doing great, Josh is working hard and Hallie is a Sr this year. Life is going very well.

Writing is slow, though. I can't seem to do the BICHOK thing. I tell myself every day that I'll sit and write, but when it comes time to do it there is always something else I need to do.

What do you do to keep your Butt In Chair, Hands On Keyboard?

I Can See You - Out Now!

Eve Wilson, first introduced in DON'T TELL, was the victim of an assault which resulted in disfiguring injury. After the incident, Eve retreated into the virtual realm, seeking refuge from the public eye. With the help of a surgeon, her face has been mostly restored and she has returned to the real world. Now a graduate student, her goal is to research the use of the virtual world as therapy to improve self-esteem. But when a string of suspicious suicides connected to her Internet activities leads homicide detective Noah Webster to her door, Eve is forced back into an intoxicating world of Web sites, alternate identities, and secret passions. A world where her experience and expertise are key ... and where she becomes a player in a deadly game, trapped in the fight of her life.

Check out the excerpt Here. Publishers Weekly calls I CAN SEE YOU “spine-tingling” and Romantic Times gives it a TOP PICK, saying it's a “diabolically clever suspense ... and a tender love story.”

Watch the Book Trailer Here.

Available Now at Blade Publishing
Number: 978-1-897560-16-7
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: Novel
Price: $4.49
Heat Index: Mild

Blurb

Kate Kingston and Brett Montgomery have been fighting their attraction for years. Now Kate’s older brother Darren has decided it’s finally time for them to admit the way they feel. He makes a deal with Kate to set her up on five blind dates, agreeing that afterwards he’d stay out of her love life for good. He chooses five guys he knows Brett will object to.

Brett not only objects to the men Darren chooses, he objects to the whole plan. Knowing there’s no changing Darren’s mind he sabotages the dates then takes them over. Spending that much time with Kate is dangerous because he comes way too close to crossing a line he swore he never would.

Kate realizes Brett’s fear of losing her brother’s friendship might be stronger than his feelings for her. So with some help from her friends she comes up with a plan to find out.

Check it out HERE

Watch the trailer HERE

New Plan

I've set myself a writing schedule that I hope I can stick to. I'm way behind on the goals I set for myself this year and it's time to crack down and get it done. I WILL finish this WIP by December!!

On a lighter note, I've started a new blog devoted strictly to a story idea I've had for awhile. It's just an idea that I'm letting bloom before my own eyes. I haven't got a plan for it, but hopefully it will work itself out and be a darn good story. Check out Silla's Secret.

Home Again

I went home for a visit this weekend and it always feels like I've gone back in time. I love my life the way it is, but sometimes it's nice to remember what came before.

My parents still live in the same house, but things are older now and harder for them to take care of. My grandparents house is gone and in it's place is a trailer that my aunt and uncle live in. My favorite tree is missing, chopped up for firewood, and the pond where pappaw and I went fishing has been filled in and is now just a field. I miss seeing those things when I go back, but I've got my memories of them, and maybe that's better.

I love going home again.

Peace and Quiet

It was a nice peaceful weekend. Saturday was spent on the couch with a good book and peace and quiet to read it.

I did go outside Saturday afternoon and pull the weeds from around the bushes in the front yard. There's still a bit more to do but it looks soooo much better.

Sunday, another peaceful day. We went Sunday afternoon to see Harry Potter & the Half Blood Prince, then came home again. DH grilled us some steaks for dinner then back to the peace and quiet with my book.

Too bad every weekend can't be that peaceful. Of course, I'd probably be completely bored if I had peace and quiet too many days in a row.

THE TAGLINE/TITLE/TEN LINES AGENT READ CONTEST

Submit the tagline, title, and first ten lines of your manuscript, and you could win one of two critiques of your partial + synopsis from Barbara Poelle of the Irene Goodman Literary Agency!

The contest is divided into three phases and runs from July 23 to August 10.

Refer a friend, and you could win a box of spa/author goodies!

For more information, visit Dawn Halliday's Website.

RWA National Conference 2010

RWA 2009 just ended in Washington, DC. But I'm so excited about next year that I'm posting now! It will be in Nashville next year and I can't wait. It will be held at the Opryland Hotel but since I live in town I won't need a room. That's more money for books at the Literacy Signing! Come on 2010!!

Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Crystal Jordan

Love can drive you over the edge. It can also let you fly.

An In The Heat of the Night story.

Pixie Parthon worked hard to make her music production company a success. Anyone who gets in her way gets the business end of her Fae magic. Her savvy business sense kept her family afloat for years, but now that her musician brother is mated and off on a world tour she’s feeling left in the dust.

Maybe it was a faint wish for a little love magic for herself, but she didn’t expect one night of cutting loose to leave her marked for life. A little love bite is one thing. Give up her hard-won independence to a pushy alpha werewolf? She’ll pass.

Malcon is just as shocked as Pixie, but for a different reason. From the moment he saw her, his desire went far beyond getting into her pants. When she agreed—begged—to be bitten, he believed she also sensed their destiny to be mates.

Now it’s too late. Nothing will convince Pixie that he has no intention of clipping her wings—not even a month’s worth of orgasms on call. Crazy as it sounds, love is all he wants from her. Even if it means letting her go…

Buy it here!

No Excuses

I'm supposed to be writing every night but it always seems as if something comes up and I just can't get to it tonight. The house is always full of people, the baby needs MawMaw to play with her, I just gotta read this book or I'll go nuts. You know, important things.

But now the house is empty for a couple of weeks and I don't have anyone to keep me from my writing. I just hope my butt will find the chair comfy enough to stay in it with my hands on the keyboard writing something and not playing Mahjong!

Something New

I started something new today. I blogged a couple of months ago about a new idea forming that would involve a new blog for a particular story I've been thinking about. Today I started working on it. It's not quite ready to go live yet, but I can tell it's gonna be good. I'll post as soon as it's ready.

Tired

My blogging has been sporadic lately and I want to get it back on track. Sometimes it seems that my mind is just going and I can't think of all the things I need to do on a daily basis. I forget things at work and at home. And I feel just plain tired all the time. But, a change in diet and adding a little exercise should help. At least that's what I'm hoping. Hmmm...maybe I should make lists. I used to love having my lists to go by, but I've gotten out of making them anymore. Wouldn't hurt to try.

Weekend

I had a great 3 day weekend. Friday DH put his new grill together and we went shopping for a cover and accessories for it. We grilled burgers for lunch and that night went to the big 4th of July service at church with Fireworks after. CDM loved the fireworks, until she heard the big boom at the end...lol.

Saturday we lazed around. KAM and I played a board game and DH played WOW. Then Saturday night DH and I went out to dinner with a friend and his new girlfriend, then rode to the top of a huge hill in Belle Meade to watch the downtown fireworks. We got a little wet when it started to rain but had a great time anyway.

Sunday was another lazy day. We went to see Angels & Demons and it was a great movie. I loved it! I also finally finished scanning in all the negatives my aunt gave me and I'll be able to print off pics for my mom when she's here this weekend. It took awhile because my scanner was only set up for negatives that were more recent. The ones I was scanning were from the 30s forward. I had to line them up and move them around to get them to scan to where I could actually make out everyone in the pics. I can't wait to find out who all these faces belong to in my family.

And now it's Monday morning and I'm back at work. Can't wait for the weekend when I can visit my mom and dad and JAM will be home from Iraq. Come on Friday!!

Not Going To Conference Conference at Romance Divas

Not going to the RWA conference in DC this month? Let Romance Divas bring the conference to you!

Site registration is free – if you aren’t already a member of the best free romance writing community on the web, sign up today!

Workshops from some of the hottest talent in writing will make you glad you stayed home!
Marley Gibson
Joey W. Hill
Steve Hockingsmith
Carrie Jones
Shayla Kersten
Josh Lanyon
Rowan Mcbride
Jet Mykles
Patti O’Shea
Ona Russel
Linnea Sinclair
Sasha White

Don’t miss it!

Is It Over Yet?

Today was not one of my better days. I got to work this morning and realized I forgot to send the pet photos to be toned and dropped into our system for printing on Saturday's classified. Thirty pet ads that were supposed to include pictures only showed the placeholders.

Now, I'm not perfect by any means, but I don't usually forget something so important. And that's all it was. I forgot. I didn't get so busy I forgot, I just forgot. And it took me all morning to enter new ads for next Saturday, fix the two that were so completely screwed up by this problem the customer's called to complain, and then to send the photos for toning. I finished right about lunch time and was at least able to enjoy lunch without worrying too much. Then after lunch I had to check each one to make sure the pics were ready to go. I was frustrated and pissed at myself, but it's done and I believe things will be back to normal tomorrow.

On the bright side, though, I met Mario Van Peebles today. He was in the building for a tour and because I work the front counter I got to say hello. I hate to admit it, but I wasn't sure who he was until someone else mentioned it. I knew he looked familiar to me, but I wasn't sure. Of course, it has been awhile since he's been in a movie. Anyway, here's a pic of him. He's a cutie.

Happy Anniversary

Today I celebrate the day I married MJM. 2 years ago today, we drove to the courthouse downtown and said our vows in front of the County Clerk. No family ceremony for us. We'd both done that twice already and decided it was not what we wanted this go around. It was a nice ceremony and we left as man and wife. That's all we really wanted anyway.

We were both pretty gun shy about marriage. I married my first husband right out of high school and for 5 years things went steadily downhill. I believed that I had to stay married even if it meant living in a situation that was not healthy; my mother married and divorced several times and I didn't want that for myself.

He was a drug addict. I knew in the back of my mind that I didn't need to marry him, but being young and "in love" I did it anyway. The drugs steadily became more prevalent until they were all there was. There was also abuse, both physical and emotional. I put up with it and told myself that I could change him. Of course, now I know that would never have happened, but at the time I wanted it to work. Finally, after 5 years and 3 kids I realized how stupid it was to stay in a potentially dangerous situation and so I got out.

Only I went from one bad situation to another. I was 25 years old with 3 kids under the age of 5 and was terrified that no one would want me. I went out with a couple of guys but not anyone who wanted anything more. Then I met the guy who would be my second husband. He was not abusive then but he was a recovering addict. I thought that was a good thing but soon found out it could change at the drop of a hat. For awhile things were good but that soon changed. The drugs took over and other things came out that I never would have dreamed possible. He turned out to be worse than my first husband; not abusive toward me personally but toward my kids. I never knew for the longest time, but it started getting worse until finally my daughter told me what he'd done. Needless to say I left immediately and never looked back. That marriage lasted for 8 years and it took a long time for me to even consider marriage again.

Until I met MJM. And I'm so glad I did. We dated for 4 years before we married and I wouldn't trade that time for anything in the world. He's a wonderful man, my kids love him, and he encourages me to pursue my dreams. What more could a woman ask for? Happy Anniversary, Honey!

The 11th Annual Melody of Love Needs You!

Your manuscript, that is. The entry period for our small, intimate RWA chapter romance novel contest is drawing to a close (receipt deadline July 2) and we have more space, particularly in the historical and paranormal categories. The judges are trained, electronic entries are welcome, and you DO NOT have to include a synopsis in the first round!

While finalists may be asked to send their industry professional judge a synopsis, they also get a chance to polish their partials before submission and consult with the chapter's resident Grammar Wench if desired. This year judges & categories are: Contemporary: Johanna Raisanen, Harlequin/Silhouette; Paranormal: Michelle Grajkowski, 3 Seas Literary Agency; Historical: Barbara Poelle, Irene Goodman
Literary Agency.

Find out the entry details at www.mcrw.com and ask any questions at contest@mcrw.com

Good luck!

Happy Birthday, Honey!

Today is my honey's birthday so, in that time honored tradition, I'll sing.

Happy Birthday to you.
Happy Birthday to you.
Happy Birthday, dear Honey.
Happy Birthday to you!

I love you and may you have many, many, many more!!

50 Years of Love

This past weekend I attended a 50th Wedding Anniversary Party for my husband's grandparents. They married in their forties and blended their families with great success. The room was full of love and laughter and a lifetime of memories.

They're in their 90s but still full of vim & vigor. They may have been a little slower moving but were still able to come back to our hotel with us after the party and have a drink or two and visit with the family they haven't seen in several years. I loved listening to the stories of their life together and the banter back and forth between family members. All in all the weekend was a great success and I'm so proud to be a part of this family.

Letting Go

My baby left this morning to spend two weeks in Albuquerque, NM, with her boyfriend and his father. She's never been away from me except with family and she's certainly never been on a plane before. I'm a nervous wreck and I've been up since 4 am to take them to the airport. I know she'll be 18 in a few months, but that's not the point. She's my baby and I don't want her off somewhere that I can't get to her right away. Letting go sucks!

I've done enough letting go in my life and frankly I don't like it very much. I want to hold on to what's mine and giving it up is turning out not to be one of my strong points. It's hard and it hurts and I don't like it! What am I supposed to do when all my babies are grown? Sit around and wish for the old days when they were little and were all mine? hmpf!

What about you? How do you deal with letting go?

Back On Track

Well, I think it's about time for me to get back into posting on a more regular basis. I got sidetracked for awhile with a special project at work and RoDiWriMo but that's all over and I have more time now.

I'm taking a Workshop with Eliza Knight called "The Noble's Life in Medieval Times". I'm excited to learn as much as I can since my WIP is set in the 14th century and Eliza is doing an awesome job. I'm inspired to write more and I'm hoping to finish the first draft of this MS within a few months so I can get started editing it and have it ready to submit by the end of the year. My first submission will be a HUGE deal!

I joined my local RWA chapter and was interviewed for the chapter newsletter. My answers to the interview questions were neither inspired nor insightful, but it was my first interview and I certainly hope it gets easier and better with time. LOL If possible I'll post here when it comes out.

My Heart Is Within You by Marguerite Labbe



On sale NOW at Dreamspinner Press!



The power of heart and soul holds the key to the survival of the last of the ancient vampires. Kristair is running out of time. His race has faded away, prey to delusion and deterioration, and his only chance to live long enough to find a cure is to bind his psyche to a human vessel in a long forgotten ritual.


Kristair's chosen vessel is Jacob Corvin, a man of passionate stubbornness and fierce loyalty; he has captured Kristair's fantasies so completely that he is both the vampire's greatest strength and most crippling weakness. Drawing upon Jacob's spirit and Kristair's resolve, they each bind a portion of their souls to one other. For as long as Jacob carries Kristair's heart within him, the vampire can continue his quest.


Just when they have hope, their mission is threatened by The Syndicate, a group of younger vampires who attempt to force Kristair to teach them his secrets before he disappears like the rest of the ancients. Battling both The Syndicate's attacks and his unexpected need and love for Jacob, Kristair's strength begins to fade, forcing him to make a decision that will change his and Jacob's lives forever.


Read an excerpt here!

More Random Stuff

The weekend is almost over. Why does it seem to go so much faster than the rest of the week? Just like your lunch break. It's the fastest hour of the day. Every other hour just creeps by. But at least I only have four days of work this week. MJM & I leave Friday morning for Kansas City, KS. His grandparents are having their 50th wedding anniversary.

I bought the cutest dress to wear. My friend and I went shopping yesterday and I tried on 12 dresses before I found the right one. Maybe I'll post a picture if it turns out good.

On a sad note, my aunt is very sick and in the hospital, in a coma last I heard. And my grandmother on my father's side is in the hospital as well. I'm not very close to her but I feel as if I should be there. I know I'll feel guilty if I don't go because I go to all my uncles funerals, but that side of the family doesn't really feel like family to me. That's sad because they really are family and I should be close to them. My father left me when I was very young and I've never spent much time with him, even though I could have if he'd only tried a little harder. Now, that's neither here nor there, though. The past is the past. And I still don't know if I'll go to the funeral or not when my grandmother passes.

Anyway, I'll go back to work tomorrow and take things a day at a time. We'll see what happens when it happens.

SECOND TIME AROUND is the 2nd instalment of the Risque Reunions trilogy of Spice Briefs, three stories about lovers who meet again at a ten year school reunion.

When Willa spots her ex-husband, James, eyeing her seductively at their high school reunion, she doesn't know what to think--or how to control her body's reaction to him. James has changed from the mild, non-confrontational man she married. Now he's darker, sexier and eager to be in command. For the first time in their relationship, Willa is helpless before him--and she likes it. It's time for her to make things right, starting by surrendering to pleasure...and to James's will.

Read an excerpt here

Available from Fictionwise, Books on Board and Amazon Kindle so far, and due at eHarlequin shortly.

The Prince's Bride, from Loose ID.

Sexy young knight Sir Geoffrey’s holy vision of the True Cross sends him questing after a virgin, a unicorn, a sacred scroll, and a cursed island. Rita is a plump, poor peasant who speaks with the finder of lost things, St. Anthony. She hasn’t been a virgin for quite a while, so she’s thrilled to win the hand of Sir Geoffrey, and moreso since Geoff delights in introducing her to his sexual peccadilloes, including a generous night of brotherly sharing. It comes as a shock to learn that Geoff’s vision includes his own martyrdom! Is Geoffrey’s vision the result of insanity, or is St. Anthony leading him to something priceless? Only Rita has the power to save her husband, with some help from her heavenly friends.

A HINT OF WICKED by Jennifer Haymore

“A unique, heart-tugging story with sympathetic, larger-than-life characters, intriguing plot twists, and sensual love scenes make A HINT OF WICKED an impressive romance debut!”

– New York Times bestselling author Nicole Jordan

CAUGHT BETWEEN DUTY AND DESIRE . . .

Sophie, the Duchess of Calton, has finally moved on. After seven years mourning the loss of her husband, Garrett, at Waterloo, she has married his cousin and heir, Tristan. Sophie gives herself to him body and soul. . . until the day Garrett returns from the Continent, demanding his title, his lands-and his wife.

TORN BETWEEN TWO HUSBANDS . . .

Now Sophie must choose between her first love and her new love, knowing that no matter what, her choice will destroy one of the men she adores. Will it be Garrett, her childhood sweetheart, whose loss nearly destroyed her once already? Or will it be Tristan, beloved friend turned lover, who supported her through the last, dark years and introduced her to a passion she had never known? As her two husbands battle for her heart, Sophie finds herself immersed in a dangerous game-where the stakes are not only love . . . but life and death.

Read the beginning of A HINT OF WICKED here.
Buy it at www.amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, www.borders.com
Also available in e-Book format

www.jenniferhaymore.com