In My World...

A good story starts with interestingly flawed characters. It all goes back to what my mom once told me. “When you marry a man, you’ll do it because you love him completely. You don’t just take the good parts; you take the good, the bad, and the annoying”.

That’s what characters should be too. Lovingly, beautifully flawed. It gives them depth. Who likes perfection? Not me! I find the very concept unbelievable really. So with that in mind, I want to tell you a little about Cain. He’s seriously one badass vampire. He has a nasty background and a real attitude. But he loves Diamonique. Does that make him perfect? No. In fact, he seriously screwed up with her once already and she’s not the roll-over and take it type of gal either. She’s stubborn, tough and holds a serious grudge. She’d sooner tear Cain’s heart out than forgive him. Don’t you just love a couple like that? It makes for some really great sparks!

Here’s a little of A Diamond at Midnight. I hope you enjoy this excerpt. It’s the first installment of my Bloodlines Series.

Excerpt:
She lifted her hand to the back of his neck and pulled him forward, then silently slipped inside his mind, reading his thoughts easily. He was a flurry of sexual lust. He ached to sink his heavy length inside her body. Nothing seemed to matter to him except the creamy swell of hip that protruded from the open dress. Diamonique felt his hands there suddenly, even as her teeth scored his soft skin. His musky male scent bombarded her senses, as she tasted his sweet blood. Only once before had she felt such nectar. Before she could explore the remembrance, his strong capable hands massage the junction of her thighs. Her tongue continued to tease the blood from her willing veins. Each in their own way fulfilling their lust. She let the moment drag out, longer than ever before. She loved his strong, capable hands massaging towards the juncture where she needed him most. Even as her tongue teased the blood from his willing vein, Diamonique could feel her own climax mounting. Each of them sating their lust. Then he spoke.

“My beautiful, Diamond, I thought I’d lost you forever.”

That voice! That warm velvet skimmed the length of Diamonique’s body. Every muscle went rigid with disbelief.

It was Cain!

The one who’d turned her into this monster of the dark.

She wrenched out of his arms.

“You blocked me,” she accused, “so I wouldn’t know it was you.”

She readied herself for battle, but he only stood there, eyes full of laughter as if mocking her. His grin fired Diamonique’s rage...
***
Next up in the Bloodlines Series: Marked by Blood What can you expect in that story? A vampire bent on revenge and a woman full of secrets.

A Sneak Peek at My New Book Coming Soon from WCP-Torrid!

I'm so excited to announce that I just signed contract with Whiskey Creek Press - Torrid for my paranormal erotic romance, Animal Attraction, for their Men of Alaska Series!

Sneak Peek:

A sexy reporter is sent to Alaska to get the scoop on werewolves to find that not only are they real, but that they're damn hunky, too!

Coming soon from WCP-Torrid!

*hugs*

Paige

Tasty Tuesday!

I like 'em wet...how about you?

*hugs*

Paige

KISS ME LIKE THERE'S NO TOMORROW

It's Monday! Make Your Mischief Special with...
That One Perfect Kiss.

I bet you can close your eyes and still feel that very first kiss. Do it. Close your eyes and let your mind take you there. Was it by a clumsy young boy? Or maybe you were a late bloomer and he was in college. Did he know how?

Mine was from a boy. And I do still remember it. It was crushing, hard and even a bit painful. Dry, lips closed. LOL I was fourteen and he was thirteen. I was nineteen before I was properly kissed. You know what I mean. The kind of kiss that a man gives you when he’s marking his territory. No. He wasn’t in college either. But that’s another story for another time.

Kissing is like nothing else. It’s the beginning to all things in a relationship. Without that very first kiss the relationship can’t progress. Have you ever had one of those all consuming kisses? Did the earth move? Sometimes we wait a lifetime for it.

Kissing is an art. There are so many ways to do it. Doesn’t seem that complicated, and I suppose it isn’t complicated so much as it just comes naturally to some and for others not so naturally.

Some people just press their lips together and twist. Others move in softly, teasing and urging the lips to open for more. A first kiss, in my opinion, should be a gentle caress, then deepen to fill you with all the intensity of a raging storm. I want a man to kiss me like there's no tomorrow.

Whew! Let me grab this glass of wine and take a sip before I go on. That’s better. Mmmm...

I read somewhere, can’t remember where so I’ll use it as a quotation, but unfortunately can’t give any credit to the author…but I read this about kissing and it has always stuck with me. “If eyes are the portals to the soul, then lips are the corridor to the mind.”

Lips react to your thoughts with a smile or frown. They give words to those thoughts and finally they express feeling—both physical and emotional-with the act of kissing.
I have a favorite line from my all time favorite movie to share with you today. The movie? Gone With The Wind, starring Clark Gable as Rhett Butler and Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O’Hara. Rhett pretty much says it all.

"No. I don't think I will kiss you. Although you need kissing badly. That's what's wrong with you. You need to be kissed. And often. And by someone who knows how."
Click on the link for an audio clip of Rhett saying those words.

http://www.reelclassics.com/Audio_Video/Quotes7r/gwtw_gable_kissing.wav



He may have been talking about kissing, but is there any doubt in your mind he would definitely be taking that kiss where it needed to go. And often? Bring it on Rhett!

How much work do you authors put into that very first kiss between the hero and heroine? And for readers, do you ever feel let down? After all, we authors spend a great deal of time building the sexual tension. Do we sometimes simply fail to convey that first kiss as the all consuming moment of passion it should be?

I know, I know. Today I was feeling a bit romantic. Guess it’s got to do with Valentine’s Day getting closer. But just to keep everyone on their toes and so no one will think I’m an incurable romantic I’ve got a tip for all you gals…and don’t you ever forget it!

If a man isn't into kissing or doesn’t want to kiss you, but wants to do everything else, kick him to the curb and kick him fast. That man has intimacy issues! Not worth the effort.

That’s it for Mischief Makin’ Monday. And don’t forget to check out my new blog.
Sex n’ Sass http://tessmackall.blogspot.com But let me warn you, it’s not for the faint of heart. Remember to stop by tomorrow when The Spanking Queen, Paige Tyler will post a Tasty Tuesday Hunk for our drooling pleasure. (Are we taking bets on whether or not he’s wet? Paige does like a wet man. Me too. LOL)

Blowing Kisses,
Tess

The Devil Himself

That's the name of my manuscript, newly signed to publish with Whiskey Creek Press Torrid.


YAY...see this girl jumping. :-D Doing the happy dance, the happy dance Woooo-Hoooo


Let me give a blurb...


Can the Jersey Devil find love and break his curse…

Luca, is the name he’s given himself; all others call him, ‘The Jersey Devil’. Just when he’s settled into his immortally cursed life, he rescues Chandra Burke, freelance photographer from rape and murder. Keeping her blindfolded as she heals they become closer, causing Luca to struggle with the feelings she’s bringing out in him. The misery placed upon him starts to wane with her closeness, and after an aggressive mating, he marks her as his. Forever dragging her into his curse as his mate, and a battle to win his freedom from the demon that created him.


Why the Jersey Devil you ask...Well hell, we all deserve love, especially the HOT kind, WOOT!!!!



Here's to a Healthy and Happy day out there to everyone!!!!

Later folks,
C~

I'm blocked...Get the words out

Writer's block....yes those two words we hate to hear. It is something that every writer hates to experience.

You sit and write and write and then all of a sudden BAM, the muse has stopped and you can't write a single word.

I have been there and surely done that more then once and I dreaded it. When I don't write I feel like something is missing.

There have actually been cases of writers block lasting for years or decades. Can you imagine not writing a book for that long?

Many writers have their own way to deal with writer's block. Some say that starting a new project helps them a lot. Some take time away from writing and re-energize their mind.

For me when I have writers block I put the project I'm stuck on to the side and take a break. I will read or listen to music. Something that will focus my mind on other things.

I think for me personally all it takes is some time away.

How do you deal with writers block or a creative block in general? What do you do to get the creative juices flowing again so you can put out your masterpiece?

If you have ever had writer's block how long has it lasted?

I wish you all a creative Saturday and get those computer keys clicking and those pens writing.

TGIF

What do you think? Yummy, right?

I don’t know about you all but I needed a little inspirations this morning. It’s a lovely eight degrees here on a Friday morning and I needed something to warm me up. If this picture isn’t enough to get you going how about a hot excerpt.

Adult unedited excerpt:
This is from Adventures in Space: Command Me, the sequel to Owned, coming soon to Changeling Press!

“The rest of your punishment.”

“Punishment?” Jade questioned as he propelled her toward the bed. Perched on the edge of the bed, he unceremoniously hauled her across his lap.

“I think your father neglected discipline.”

“Oh no you won’t.” She twisted on his lap when she realized his intent. She didn’t know what horrified her more, the thought of a spanking, or having her bare, overly abundant ass tipped up for his perusal.

“Yes.” A hand landed firmly on her bottom. “I will.” The hand landed again.

“I’ll tell my father.”

His hand landed twice more. “What will you tell him? How you upgraded Ellie for your pleasure. That you tried to seduce Ro.”

“I didn’t. Let me go, you overbearing bastard.”

His large hand covered one reddened cheek and he massaged the stinging flesh. “You don’t know what a bastard I can be but you’re about to find out.”

He shifted her on his lap and she clamped her thighs together, horrified he’d feel the wetness of her arousal. Two thick fingers forced their way between her legs, sliding easily once they encountered her cream. His low chuckle intensified her embarrassment.

End of excerpt!

Paige – I chose a spanking scene just for you!

Well, now that I've warmed my blood I'm off for a busy Friday. Take care and keep warm!

Laura/LA Day

your favorite type of love scene?

Okay folks! It's time to confess. I want to know what love act you love to read about most, and what types you hate. Also, for authors, what typle of love scene do you love to write and which type makes you go 'eww!'

Give it up. Don't be shy!

As a reader I love to read wet scenes. It can be in a pool, in the shower, makes no difference I love those wet scenes. Lori Foster has written a few wet scenes that I enjoyed, so has S. L. Carpenter.

As a writer I enjoy creating a scene where there's more than two people getting loved up. LOL Threesomes. I think because it's very challenging to get all the particulars right and still keep the scene hot. So far I've written three scenes in three seperate books that have three people getting it on at once. Haley's Cabin--f/f/m Suni's Gift--m/f/m and Burn--f/f/m (coming out Jan. 09) I plan to write a fourth in my work in progress. That one's called Out of Control and it'll have a m/f/m.

Now, your turn. What gets you all revved? It can be the act itself, like 'backdoor' lovin'. Or sex where food is involved (pour some sugar on me...lol) ...anything goes!

What to do when secondary characters take over your book!

This subject comes up from time to time on a writers forum that I belong to, so I thought it would be interesting to blog about!

I've heard some writers say that they pull rank on their secondary characters when they get uppity, quickly putting them in their place before they get too out of hand.

I've also heard some writers say that they agree to give the secondary character his or her own sequel. just to keep them happy.

Well, I didn't do either of those things when my secondary characters took over. Instead, I scrapped the book's original hero and heroine, who I have to admit were really rather blah in comparison, in favor of the more interesting and intriguing secondary characters. Of course, that meant I had to completely scrap the original story line, too, but it was worth it because these characters became the hero and heroine of my first book, Samantha and the Detective, which is now a bestseller!

Synopsis:

Detective Hayden Tanner hates reporters, especially when they interfere with a police investigation. So why is he so drawn to saucy reporter Samantha Halliwell when she does nothing but interfere with his current investigation of a college student's murder? And why does Samantha continue to provoke him when he's already made good on his promise and put her over his knee her for getting in his way? Perhaps because despite her dislike for authority figures, she finds the handsome detective's willingness to take her in hand surprisingly sexy. But regardless of his repeated warnings and over the knee spankings, Samantha continues to investigate the murder heedless of the danger, putting not only her future with Hayden in jeopardy but her very life as the killer closes in on her.

Excerpt:

It was only ten-thirty in the morning and it had already been a long day. But that was because Hayden had been up since four AM when he’d been called down to the university after some early morning joggers had found the body of a fellow student dumped beside one of the fitness trails. A half dozen members of the track club had been getting in some cross-country work before class and saw a bare leg sticking out of some shrubs.

From the looks of it, the naked body had been tossed from a car parked on the road up the hill from the trail. There were cuts, scrapes and bruises on the body that the ME had said were post mortem, which fit in with the theory that the body had been dumped after the murder. Preliminary cause of death was strangulation since there were heavy rope marks around the man’s neck. The combination of the naked body and the college campus dumpsite gave the homicide all the indicators of a sex crime, but Hayden was reserving judgment until they got the results from the autopsy. At least one thing was sure, they could definitely rule out suicide. As it happened, one of the joggers had recognized the vic and identified him as an art major who had a part-time job at one of the local bookstores, which was where Hayden and his partner were hoping to get some leads.

“So, when did you say you saw him last?” Hayden asked the store’s owner.

He was well past middle age, Hayden noted, with a thin, angular face and wire-rimmed glasses that hid unremarkable gray eyes. And just the type of man one would imagine owning a bookstore.

Before the man could answer his question, however, the door opened and Hayden turned to find that a woman had entered the store. She was young, probably no more than twenty-five or so, and pretty, with auburn hair that she had loosely pulled up into a clip, and sunglasses perched atop her head. She was petite, too, he noticed. In fact, if not for the stacked heels she was wearing, she’d probably barely reach his chin.

But it was her eyes that fascinated him. They were the clear, blue-green of the Caribbean and, no doubt, just as easy for a man to drown in. Her gaze immediately locked on the badges he and his partner wore, and she looked at them eagerly.

“What are you doing here?” she asked even as her blue eyes took on a knowing look. Slipping on a pair of reading glasses, she took a spiral notebook out of her handbag. “This must be about Rick Elliot, right?”

Hayden’s eyes narrowed. Damn, she was a reporter! He should have known. “And how do you know about that?” he asked crossly.

She barely spared him a glance as she fished a pen out of her huge shoulder bag. “My scanner,” she said, as if that should have been obvious. “What happened?”

Hayden’s dark brows drew together. With a quick look at his partner, who was regarding him with amusement, he abandoned his questioning and took her arm. “I’m Detective Hayden Tanner and since this is a police investigation, I’ll be the one asking the questions. In fact, I think I have a few for you,” he said, hustling her out the door.

“Let go of me!" she demanded. "I’m sure even a Neanderthal like you has heard of the First Amendment. I have every right to be here.” Samantha wrenched her arm from Hayden’s grasp once they were outside and glared up at him. “Who taught you manners? The Marquis de Sade?”

Hayden’s mouth twitched in wry amusement at her quip. “Who?” he asked, taking in the indignant tilt of her chin.

“Forget it!” she snapped. “I'm sure it's above you.”

His jaw tightened slightly at the insult. “Who are you?” he asked. “I’ve never seen you around a crime scene before.”

Samantha was glad she’d worn her chunky sandals. Even with them, she barely came up to his chin, and she lifted hers defiantly. “Samantha Halliwell from the Post.”

Gold eyes narrowed and his voice took on an accusing tone. “I never heard of you.”

Samantha looked up at the handsome man before her. He would have been what her younger sister called “a hottie” if he weren’t so damn arrogant, which was why she wasn’t the least bit affected by his broad shoulders, rugged good looks, or incredible amber-colored eyes. She wasn’t, she insisted. “And you know all the reporters that work for the Post?”

He lifted a brow. “Just the good ones.”

She flushed and looked away, trying to hide her embarrassment. “I work in the arts and leisure section,” she said softly.

He had to bend his head to hear her words. “The what?”

Her gaze snapped back to his. “Arts and leisure,” she said stiffly, louder this time and carefully punctuating each word.

To her surprise – and intense irritation – he burst out laughing. “What? You're not even a real reporter!”

“I am too, you jerk!” How dare he say that to her! Just because she wrote about gallery openings and movies didn’t mean she wasn’t a real reporter. “So, what can you tell me about Rick Elliot’s murder? Do you think Jack Kendall was involved?” she asked, referring to the dour faced man who owned the bookstore.

The detective's mouth tightened. “See, that question tells me that you’re not a real reporter. If you were, you would know that one, Rick Elliot’s death has not been officially ruled a murder and won’t be until the final autopsy report comes in, and two, I wouldn't be able to comment on who might or might not be involved.”

She folded her arms and gave him a contemptuous look. “Oh, please! His naked body was found with rope marks around his neck. What did he do – stumble and choke himself on a tree limb while out jogging in the nude?”

“Where did you get that information?” he demanded.

She smiled sweetly at him. “Anonymous source. Are you confirming the cause of death, then?”

He scowled. “No comment.”

She sighed. “Come on, give me something I can use. What’s Kendall got to do with this?”

“I said, no comment.”

“Typical!”

“Look, there’s no story here, so why don't you run back to your desk at the Post.” He smirked. “I’m sure there's some new movie out needing a bad review or something.”

Her hand itched to slap that sardonic smirk off his smug face. Lifting her chin, she secured her shoulder bag more firmly on her shoulder and gave him a scathing look. “If you’ll excuse me, I need to ask Mr. Kendall some questions.”

She made as if to push past him, but he caught her arm. “I don’t think so, Ms. Halliwell. Not unless you want me to arrest you for interfering in a police investigation.” His mouth quirked. “Though the idea of you in a pair of handcuffs does hold a certain appeal.”

Samantha simply stared at him, speechless and blushing as something warm and tingling coiled its way around her. Surprised by her reaction, she quickly tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and made a show of putting her notebook back into her bag.“Tell Mr. Kendall that I’ll be back to talk to him,” she said, trying to maintain as much of her dignity as she could.

This time, Hayden let her go. But as his gaze followed her down the street, he felt himself grow hard, and he swore under his breath. What the hell was the matter with him? She was a reporter and he hated reporters, even beautiful reporters with incredibly blue eyes and the sexiest ass he’d ever seen.

Buy Now!

*hugs*

Paige

Tasty Tuesday!

Anyone want to help him dry off?

*hugs*

Paige

WANTED: RESEARCH ASSISTANT

Looking for Mischief? Look no further. I’ve got your mischief!
And I’m looking for a Research Assistant.

I think we’ve pretty well established that anytime anyone finds out what we write—erotic romance—we get one of two reactions. First there is the, “Oh, really?”—puzzled and backs away move. Those are the people that avoid us the next time they see us in the grocery store.
Uptight—Dried up—Judgmental--#@!&#@!*%!##@!

Then there are the ones whose eyes light up with mischief and their lips curl into a knowing grin. Yeah…lol…those are my kind of peeps! “Whatever trips your trigger. All Right! Hell yeah! Can I play too?” God love ‘em. They keep me sane.

And the ones who are receptive are curious too. They ask me pretty direct questions about what I write. I always make sure to explain the difference between porn and erotic romance. Not that I have anything against porn. It has its place. Again—whatever trips your trigger!

The thing they are most curious about is research. Yeah, you got it. I get teased about research. Now our Nice n’ Naughty friend Savannah Chase recently went to a gun club to research a story she’s working on. I generally use the internet, phone, and books or magazines for research. Then of course there is that “up close and personal” research.

And that’s the kind of research everyone is curious about. CA, Savannah and I are the single gals here at The Nice n’ Naughty Blog. Anne, Paige and Laura are married. And on more than one occasion I’ve heard them brag about their hubbys. *big smile* I love to hear a woman bragging about her man. Warms me right down to my toes.

You don’t hear me bragging though do you? LOL…As for research, I think Anne, Laura, and Paige have it pretty well covered. Paige, like my friend Adriana Kraft works with her husband to come up with those sexy storylines. I think Paige said her hubby does the outline and she gives it her words. Adriana and her hubby do both.

Now I’m telling you. That’s just plain damn sexy!

Honestly. I can’t think of anything more perfect than a couple who writes erotic romance as a team. Can you? Think about all those hot steamy nights of research. YUMMY! Not to mention all the communication that goes into coming up with the plot. Dare I say:
EROTIC ROMANCE =HAPPY HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP????????

Don’t get me wrong. I’ve had my share of research assistants. I’m sure C A and Savannah have too. But there’s always something that’s just a little off about the research. Gives new meaning to the term “clinical trials”. Yeah. That would be a good way to describe testing the murky waters of love. Oh well..I’ll keep looking until I find the perfect fit. Maybe I’ll place an ad. Hmmm…that’s an idea. What would it say?




Simple. Yeah, right. I’ll keep working on it. And I’ll let everyone know when I find my co-author. lol

So tell me…are there anymore authors out there who write as a team? And if you do? Do you use only one pen name and why? And for those of you who don’t write as a team is your significant other helpful with research? YES DAMN IT!!! I’m an inquiring mind and I want to know. Give me all your secrets. LOL….

For readers, I’d like to know if you ever read to your significant other. Do you whip out one of those erotic romances and go to the hottest passage in the book and start reading? Does it heat up the sheets? I’m a writer, words turn me on. Do they turn you on?

Tomorrow is Tasty Tuesday and Paige will once again be posting a hot hunk for our drooling pleasure! Maybe I’ll find my co-author. Outta my way…I got dibs!


Blowing Kisses,
Tess

Are we dependent on technology

How is everyone on this Seductive Sunday J WOOT!!
Well, I have to tell you all *curl that upper lip baby, hunka hunka burning love* that C. A. has left the building and is NOT in the house!! YAY, LOL.

As I write this, I’m sitting in a hotel room in Jacksonville, FL. I have not been up this early in a long time LOL. On my way to be certified for the reading program I tutor, and I have to say…I miss my kid J. There is so many cool things to do around here within walking distance; I know I’m going to come back with the little stinker so we can troll around and look like the other tourists. Of course he’s getting the stuffing spoiled out of him by his grandmother. *Snort*, isn’t that always the way. LOL.

Why did I bring my lap top on another business trip? Hmmm, well I just couldn’t leave it behind. It’s like that cigarette I used to want, I didn’t want to leave it behind.
Even though I have a notebook (Pirates of the Caribbean *Grins* what can I say, I’m just an imaginer.) and plenty of pens and pencils, I just couldn’t leave the old lap top at home.

I have to say, I love my desk top, and the lap top, and I love bringing it with me, and being able to get on line if that’s what I want. I brought it with me two years ago for my brothers wedding. One week of peacefulness in the mountains of NC. And while, I didn’t touch the lap top once, other than to put movies in for the little kids, the idea that, it was there, just incase I wanted to use it, was good for enough me.

Does this happen to you?

Are we so dependent on computers and technology that it’s like an addiction? Is it easier to tote around a laptop, than a pen and paper, is being on line something that is a must in this day and age? Or is it comforting to have something that’s familiar when you’re away from your normal routine?

Of course you have a published e-book author writing this *Grins* who does 80% of her promotions on line. So it is vital to my business to have access anytime I want or need it. What do you gals/guys say?

Did any of that make sense or am I just blabbering? J

On a NON blabbing note and onto a totally shameless promotion *Grins*.

I’ve signed my second contract with Whiskey Creek Press Torrid to publish.
*Jumping around, head thrashing side to side, bouncing up and down.* YAY…Okay, no more head banging, I’m not twenty anymore J can you say headache.

The Devil Himself is the name of the book.
It’s about the Jersey Devil, finding love and breaking his curse, and of course there’s hotness, would there be a book by C. A. without hotness? *Snort* I think NOT. LOL, J And HEY, everyone deserves LOVE and Hot, erotic sex, with a shapeshifter! *GRINS*, Can you see me grinning, huh, huh, can you…the hotter the better baby!! WOOT!!

So I’m on the lap top, where I have NO blurbs, or nothing, why, because it’s all on my computer at home. Soooooooo, if you want you can hop skip and jump over to my website to the “Coming Soon” section to take a look. -K-

Well, ta ta for now,

I won't be able to comment back until around 5 or 6 p.m.
Have a great day everyone!!

C~
www.freewebs.com/casalo

Bite me.....

So my latest book that I am working on is a paranormal. Vampires to be more specific.

Ever since I was a teenager I always found vampires to be an interesting subject. Then I discovered Anne Rice's The Vampire Chronicles and my fascination grew even more.

I loved reading about the dark world of night walkers and most of all how everything was tied together.

I remember watching Interview With The Vampire and it was such a great film. It did the book justice. I loved seeing the book be brought to the big screen.

When Queen Of The Damned came out a lot of people hated the film. I will say that it's one of my fave films, especially the soundtrack. The music is amazing and it's one soundtrack I love listening to while I work on my own paranormal books. It just sets a dark mood. Puts you in the world of a night walker.

There is just something that is interesting about vampires. They are creatures of the night that are raw and give off such sexual power. They are dark and mysterious.

I have wanted to write paranormal books for a while now. Had many ideas floating around in my head. Now I'm currently typing away at 4 different books. My current one is about a female vampire in the future. A world that is truly different. One that she fights for.

For this book I have done a bit of research from fighting, to clothes and even weapons. My in person research that I had done a while back at the shooting range is really coming in handy.

I wonder am I the only one who has a fascination with paranormal beings like vampires? As readers and writers why do you like vampires?

Should it have a sequel??

I wanted to start out today with a little good news of my own. Feral Intensity was just contracted by Ellora’s Cave. It’s the third book of my series, Faldron Shifters. I’m very excited about this series and for those of you that know the series this is Dirk’s journey. I also have several more books already planned for this series.

In the past year, I have released eleven e-books and have three more contracted. While a few of these books are single-title books most are part of a series. Some of them, I thought were single-title books but as the story evolved I realized there would be a sequel. Sometimes a secondary character demands their own story and I’m usually happy to oblige them.

In addition to the Faldron Shifters, I have several other ongoing series. Warrior of the Past, the sequel to The Last Warrior is my next release from Ellora’s Cave. I’m working on sequels to Savage & Zarius for EC. I also have a series with Changeling Press titled, Adventures in Space and I still plan to write the sequel to Undercover Pleasure Droid for Cobblestone Press.

I’ve had reader requests for continuation of stories or requests that I write a story for a particular character. I try to do my best to accommodate these requests. Recently, I had another request. This reader wanted more single-titled books because they don’t care to read a whole series.

This leads me to my question of the day:

Do you like series books?

Why?

Or why not?

I adore reading them because in most series books I not only get to meet and drool over a new hero and heroine but oftentimes the author has past characters in the series and I feel like I’m catching up with an old friend.

I write mostly paranormal and sci-fi erotic romance and to have a good story you must build a world in which your story takes place. For instance, the Faldron Shifters series takes place in the fictitious Faldron Mountains. From these mountains, I have introduced characters that are lupine, feline and coyote shifters. Once I’ve created a world, my stories flow naturally from it. Although, I have reoccurring characters in the series each book is a stand-alone book which means you can read book two without reading book one. However, I believe to fully enjoy a series you should start with book one.

Having said that, I confess to reading a book two or three in a series first. Usually that means I want to go back and read the early books.

Do you ever start reading a series in the middle?

Will you not buy a book that you know is part of a series because you feel you’ll then have to buy the rest of the series?

I’d like to hear the writer’s and reader’s perspective on series books. All comments are welcome.

Submissions Call: Coming Together: Against the Odds

This was posted by the talented author (and my friend) Mychael Black and I thought I'd pass it on.

Mychael says:
It's no secret that my son is autistic, and in the past year alone,
I've found many, many authors and readers who either have autistic
children or who work/have worked with autistic people. There is no
cure for autism. My son, who will be 6 in March, was diagnosed three
years ago. He will be autistic for the rest of his life--just like
anyone else with it. Autism is a spectrum disorder--with many levels
of severity. I'm lucky my son is lower to mid-spectrum. He's not
high-functioning, but he communicates well. No one knows what causes
autism, though there are many studies that point to several factors.
Simply put: Autism is a mystery.

With that in mind, I'm thrilled to announce the following call for
submissions for another Coming Together anthology, edited by Alessia
Brio and to be published by Phaze. Proceeds will benefit Autism
Speaks, a wonderful organization that promotes education, research,
and community for those who deal with autism--whether directly or
indirectly, and for those who simply wish to know more and help.

***

All behavior is communication. The trick is to figure out just what
it's saying. No behavior communicates as clearly or on as many levels
as sex. All the physical and emotional senses are engaged. Add the
element of intrigue, and the intellect is engaged as well.

Phaze, in partnership with editor, Alessia Brio, is now accepting
submissions for Coming Together: Against the Odds, a collection of
erotic fiction with a mystery theme.

We're seeking short stories up to 12K words. (There is no minimum
length.) Poetry will also be considered. Reprints are welcome as long
as the author owns ebook & print rights.

Same sex, ménage, and BDSM submissions are welcome, as is poetry.
Absolutely NO bestiality, pedophilia, necrophilia, bodily waste,
incest, underage sex, or positively portrayed rape will be considered.

All proceeds from the sale of this special anthology will benefit
Autism Speaks.
Coming Together is erotic altruism at its finest!

READ MORE HERE: http://www.eroticanthology.com/againsttheodds.htm

New from Paige Tyler - The Cutler Brothers Series!

I love when an author writes a series because I really enjoy catching up with all the characters from the previous books, kind of like you do with old friends! Some of my favorite series include J.R.Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood Series, which I'm currently reading, as well as Kerrelyn Sparks' Love at Stake Series, Lynsay Sands' Argeneau Vampire Series, and Kelley Armstrong's Otherworld Series.

My newest books are also part of a series and it's called The Cutler Brothers. I thought it would be fun to do a series about two brothers who are both in law enforcement, so I came up with hunky U.S. Marshals Cade and Madoc. Of course, every hero needs a feisty heroine, and both brothers meet their respective matches in Riley Barnett, a protectee in the Witness Protection Program, and Shayna Matthews, an escaped fugitive on the run from the law. As you can imagine, the Cutler brothers have their hands full, which of course means lots of spankings for the two heroines!







Cade, Book One of The Cutler Brothers

The beautiful, but irritating Riley Barnett has been a thorn in the side of the U.S. Marshals Service ever since she entered the Witness Protection Program. And now that she once again believes her identity has been compromised, new U.S. Marshal Cade Cutler is the one sent to placate her. But the simple task of babysitting her is made more difficult when she refuses to obey his simplest instructions. Cade has never met a woman so infuriating, and soon realizes that the only way to get through to her is to put her over his knee for a good, sound spanking.

Riley, though, will be damned if she’s going to take orders from the gorgeous Marshal just because he spanks her, especially when he refuses to believe that she’s actually in danger. She has been in the Witness Protection Program long enough to know when someone is after her, even if all of the other times had been false alarms.

But when it turns out that she’s right this time, Riley has to depend on Cade to protect her, even if that means putting up with his spankings every time she refuses to follow his silly rules!

Read an Excerpt!

Buy Now!







Madoc, Book Two of The Cutler Brothers


After attending his brother’s wedding, U.S. Marshal Madoc Cutler knows one thing for sure – there is absolutely no way he would ever fall for a woman as quickly as his brother did.

But he can certainly appreciate an attractive woman, and when he comes across a beautiful waitress at a small-town diner, he can’t help but notice her. However, things become complicated when he recognizes her as the runaway fugitive, Shayna Matthews. Even though he is in the middle of nowhere, she’s wanted for embezzlement and suspicion of murder, and it’s his job to bring her in. Shayna puts up more fight than he expects though, and he has no choice but to put her over his knee for a sound spanking until she agrees to come quietly.

His plan to quickly transport her back to Denver to stand trial goes awry however, when a snowstorm forces them to take shelter in tiny, secluded cabin in the woods. Madoc’s vow to maintain his professionalism is sorely tested the more time he spends with the alluring fugitive.

Madoc is torn. Should he do his duty and turn Shayna in, or should he follow his gut instinct and risk his career and freedom to help her clear her name? And could he possibly have been wrong about not falling for a woman as quickly as his brother did?

Read an Excerpt!

Buy Now!


And coming soon, The Cutler Brides, Book Three of The Cutler Brothers!

*hugs*

Tasty Tuesday!

The wet look definitely works for this guy, don't you think?

*hugs*

Paige

ROMANCING THE COMPUTER...and a RANT!

Ready for some mischief? Well here it is...
Tess wants to know how you feel about online romance and Cybersex!

First…The Rant.

Publisher of the now defunct Twilight Fantasies has risen from the ashes—or in my humble opinion…reared her ugly head like the snake she is. Just when you think it can’t get any worse, it does. This gal didn’t pay her authors, editors, or cover artists, then chastised them for questioning her and talking about it with each other. And to add insult to injury she and her dear hubby half-ass returned rights to authors, sending a blanket email hinting at bankruptcy and causing authors to set aside their blood, sweat and tears in fear of the long six month to a year arm of bankruptcy court.

So what’s she up to now? She has self-pubbed one of her own books, using the Twilight Fantasies logo—I suppose she thinks that gives her credibility when someone stumbles across that buy link—makes it look like she is actually published somewhere. The book is selling for a ridiculous price and was once offered as a free read on the TF website. This time she is using her real name instead of her pen name. Like a whole helluva lot of us don’t know her real name. Don’t see the reasoning behind that. Maybe someone here can shed some light on it. Anyway, I’m through ranting.

Now for the fun stuff!
ROMANCING THE COMPUTER



Online dating sites are big business. Hell, even Dr. Phil is in on it! There are hundreds of these companies that will guide you through the whole online dating experience. But for today’s discussion I want to talk primarily about MySpace.

When I first started out in the online publishing world I was told I needed a MySpace page. I got one. LOL. And I have to agree it's a great networking tool as well as a whole lot of work! And to be perfectly honest, I’ve met some very nice people through MySpace and wouldn’t trade the experience for anything.

I use MySpace IM to mainly chat with fellow authors, Caitlyn Hunter and Sascha Illyvich, but someone always pops up. And if it’s an actual MySpace friend I’m always happy to chat. I talk to a great many MySpace friends and if not on IM through messages.

Sometimes though, I’m contacted by men who aren’t actual friends. I suppose it’s to be expected, given what I write, but some of these men who contact me are going about it all the wrong way. I’ll give you an example.

I’m sitting at the comp polishing a chapter and up pops this message. Will I accept or deny? Well I look at the name and don’t really recognize it, but with almost 500 MySpace friends and the fact people are constantly changing their icons and their user names…who knows? So I click accept and immediately the screen pops up with “hello”, to which I reply “hello, who is this?” He replies with his name and then types in “wanna cyber?”
Now who the hell in their right mind asks something like that right off the bat? Doesn’t he want to know my favorite color first? So I said, “WTF? Let me guess. You saw erotic romance on my page and thought, ‘Wow! She does it hanging from the chandelier wearing a choke collar”. To which he replied, “yeah, thought you’d be easy.” I hit delete and block. End of that story, but I have so many of those stories. And these type messages come from MySpace users who are not accepted friends. I thought about setting to private, but the main reason I have a MySpace page is to promote myself and it would defeat the purpose.

And to be perfectly honest I see nothing wrong with a guy trying. Hey, he might just get lucky with that approach. Just not with me. I do require a bit more finesse than that! I see nothing wrong with online flirting (Although asking for cybersex is just a tad more than flirting…IMHO) I’m single. So if someone flirts with me I flirt right back. Well hell...I’ll be honest. I probably flirt first! LOL...I love to flirt and tease. And I don’t engage in anything other than light flirting and I’m not sure that anything I’ve ever said to anyone would lead them to believe I’d be interested in anything else. I could be wrong. Hmmm…maybe one of my MySpace friends will post here and tell me what he thinks of my “flirting”. LOL Oh hell…just opened up a major can of worms didn’t I?

I have MySpace friends who have actually met each other and have pursued relationships. I have MySpace friends who admittedly engage in Cybersex. Is there anything wrong with that? HELL NO!



As some of you’ve probably figured out, online relationships can be just as fast as the internet itself. You get to know people at a much faster pace. And I for one can certainly see the allure. Talking to a strange man online is a lot like a stranger buying you a drink in a bar. There’s a certain element of danger in that. Very sexy! At least that’s how I see it. So how far is too far? Is there such a thing? I have lots of questions for everyone today. And please answer as many as you feel comfortable with. All opinions are welcome.

1. Have you ever had an experience similar to the one I used as an example
above? How did it make you feel? How did you handle it?
2. What do you think of “looking for love online”? Are online relationships
real? Can they stand the test of time?
3. Cybersex. Do you? Would you?
4. If you are married and engage in cybersex is it cheating?
5. Are you presently involved in an online relationship that could possibly
become more?
6. Do you know of an online romance that ended with happily ever after?
7. Do you know of an online relationship that ended in disaster?

Oh, come on! Don’t be shy! Answer a couple questions. Want me to answer first? Sure why not?

1. I’ve experienced many unsolicited overtures for cybersex and turned down all of them. Didn’t really upset me other than basically make me wonder how someone could be so stupid as to message me and ask for it straight out.
2. I think online dating is pretty kewl. I checked some of the sites before I started this blog and they can narrow your search in such a way that you’d never have to go to another bar or coffee shop again in your life, giving new meaning to the term “blind date”. At least with online dating you’ve input your likes and dislikes and it’s all presorted. Much better chance of success! I hear they do stand the test of time. And just because you’ve never met the person it doesn’t mean you can’t become emotionally attached. I’m quite attached to a great many of my online friends.
3. No. I haven’t. And yes, I just might. Yeah! I said it. Well hell! It’s not that much different from phone sex is it?
4. I think it’s cheating if your spouse doesn’t know you are doing it. If they do then it’s all in fun. Then there is the question…Is this a “one night stand” type of cybering experience or are you in constant contact with this one cyber partner? Could mean emotional attachment and that might just fulfill my definition of cheating.
5. Yes.
6. I’ve heard of a few, but don’t know of anyone personally.
7. I’ve heard of some major disasters. Even cases of stalking.
The thing we should all remember is that we are online and people are a bit looser than they might be in person. The anonymity alone is very empowering…and seductive. Just be careful and take your time. Don’t rush ANY relationship. Especially one that could very well involve your safety.

Well, guess that’s it for today. Like I said, answer only what you feel comfortable answering, or just give an overall opinion. Oh and check out my website blog: www.tessmackall.literalseduction.com/blog I’m going to post a funny story about the time I thought I was chatting with a ROBOT…lol…and then found out it wasn’t a robot!
Don’t forget tomorrow is Tasty Tuesday and Paige Tyler will be here with one of her Hot Hot Hunks! Until next time!

Blowing Kisses,
Tess

To plot or not to plot...

That is the question.

Good morning all, or should I say afternoon here. Sorry about that, bit under the weather today. But as you can see I’m on the PLOT phase today.

I rarely plot a book before starting it. Yeah, I’ll get all the important info down, like names, physical descriptions, good guy, bad guy, any relevant research, how naughty I want to make it *Grins* you know.
That’s how I started, and when I bought and tried the plotting software for writers.

WELL let me tell you, I HATED them both! They kept asking the same question, over, and over, and over, and over, and over…get the point, LOL.
I can’t stand repetition like that, Yes, I just answered that same question four different ways on four other areas, let’s get on with it all ready! Grrrrr Arrrggggg!!

I’d rather just get the facts, ‘Just the facts ma’am’ and go. Fly by the seat of my pants and see what I come up with. I may plot for that thirty minutes before I fall asleep about how I want the plot to go next…or the next hour, or…Hmmmm that’s going to be one interesting book, damn I have to get up in five hours. *Grins*

So for us non plotters, and plotters out there…do you have a bunch of unfinished books sitting on your computer?

I DO! LOL. I did a roll call of my book summaries last night…105 on the Dell, less than 50 of those unfinished. WOWZERS!

I can’t help it…when an idea hits me, I write it down, then it may be 2, 4, 6, 2 months before I feel like hitting it again. *Scratching the head* Don’t ask me why.
Last night I’m looking at them, saying…yes, that one’s all ready to go out to submissions, why is it still sitting here LOL. Then I answer myself…two day jobs, make the time, make the time. LOL. (Yes, I answer myself often *Shhh, don’t tell *Grins*)

So folks, what’s your take on the plotting issue? Do you plot or are you a fly by the seat of your pants?

I can honestly say...A Slave's Way Out was a fly by the seat of my pants book.
And look how well that's doing, WOOT!! :-D

Is that even possible....A leg where?

Let’s talk about sex......

It’s funny to hear people ask about how a writer comes up with sex scenes in their books. Or you hear the comment “You must have a wild sex life”...LOL

Didn’t you know, all writers practice what they write about...LOL

Just kidding...well some might....

As a writer you want to keep sex scenes fresh and interesting, but still keep them to your characters. You don’t want to write a scene that is way out of character for the hero and heroine. Stuff that’s written to get attention or just to fill the pages.

Intimacy between characters has to have a purpose; it’s supposed to be meaningful.

Yes, sometimes characters will surprise you and show off their true nature. The will go all out.

It’s not just wham bam thank you mam.....

I have heard writers say that they have had to edit their sex scenes because what they had written was anatomically impossible....I wonder what they had written..

When I first started writing erotic romance I wasn’t sure what I was able to write and I would offend people. I quickly discovered that when you write erotica you don’t have to hold back and sweeten things down. If your characters want to get freaky they get freaky...

What do you think about intimate scenes? Does it bother you if they are explicit? Do you mind if a book has a lot of sex in it?

We all do it!

You know you do.
It’s natural!
You just can’t help yourself.
You know sometimes when you’re alone...you Google your name or book title.

Jeez! What did YOU think I was talking about!

I often Google my name or book titles to see what comes up-so to speak!

Here’s a funny link I found while Googling myself. This one was found while Googling my book, Double Penetration:

Double Dribble

Usually I’m looking for new reviews and sometimes I find some good ones. Sometimes not, but that’s okay everyone is entitled to an opinion. Sometimes my name or book title shows up on new and interesting blogs. I enjoy finding reader reviews. They are usually blunt and honest.

Okay! So find a moment to yourself and do it. You know you want to.

Readers can Google their real name. That can lead to some interesting sites too. My real name will lead you to a porn site for an Italian woman.

So, Google yourself and tell us what you find!

Hottest story you ever read?

Let’s talk about sexual tension and love scenes in books. A good, hot, wild love scene will suck me in every time. I will seek out the author’s website, blog, any and all information about the author, just so I can read more of her work. I sign up to their newsletters so I can get up to date info about their latest releases. Does that make me an obsessive fan? LOL! Not really, I just have a certain type of book I like. I'm very picky.

But it’s not just the sex that gets me, it’s the characters and the plot. If it’s a crappy plot, I won’t bother.

A few authors that get me panting checking out their backlist:

Shannon McKenna

Her heroes are so intense! I love intense! And her action-packed storylines make me think they’d make great movies. But, they’d probably have to tone down her love scenes and wouldn’t that be a shame?

Jaid Black

Okay, if you haven’t read One Dark Night, you’re really missing out on a good story. I mean, it’s a suspense, that’s erotic...! Hello! How perfect is that?! Thomas, the hero, is to die for. Delicious and dominant. Yowza!


J. R. Ward

Clearly she doesn’t need an introduction. She’s already a phenomenon, right? Her heroes are pretty darned tasty.



S. L. Carpenter

Have you read his books? Yowza, right? I’m like a kid to candy, I can’t seem to resist. LOL


Lisa Marie Rice

She writes both sensual romance and erotic. Don’t you love an author who can write both heat levels with expertise?


What book or author made you drool? Go ahead, add to my TBR pile! :)

Tubthumping anyone?

*hugs*

Paige

Now, these guys look like they could definitely spank...

The replies to last week's post got me thinking about romantic spanking in movies. There's certainly not a lot of it going on, that's for sure, but if there were, here are some actors who look like they could definitely redden a girl's bottom!

David Boreanaz

Whether he's playing a sexy vamp or a hunky FBI agent, with those smoldering eyes and that silky voice, the man is just made to put a girl over his knee!

Josh Holloway

Those rugged good looks are enough to make any girl melt, and when they're combined with that sexy southern accent, females all over would surely be lining up to get a spanking from him!

Julian McMahon

Another hot guy who's the total package, but he can also carry off that mock stern look, which as any girl who is into spanking knows, a man must have!

Viggo Mortensen

In a word, the man is H-O-T! And since he can play pretty much any role, especially that of the alpha male, I'm sure he could give a yummy spanking!

Okay, so those are the actors I'd like to see star in a romantic spanking story! Now, tell me yours!

*hugs*
Paige

Tasty Tuesday!

So, who wants to get wet n' wild?

*hugs*
Paige

SEX SELLS AND SILVER KISSES

It’s Mischief Makin’ Monday and I’m back with…

Sex Sells and Silver Kisses

I love double entendre. There is nothing you can say to me that I can’t or won’t flip and make naughty. Can’t help it. I do on occasion try to suppress this tendency, but not today. And I love book titles with a dual meaning. They grab my attention. And the writers who come up with these names are smart to take advantage--especially when that dual meaning involves sex. I’m showcasing a few titles here today.

Take a look at L. A. Day’s Double Penetration. The fact of the matter is the book is about a vampire as in two fangs. But I swear the first thing I thought of was a vibrator in one orifice and a throbbing Love Root in another! L. A….you did that on purpose didn’t you girl? The title against the backdrop of that so effing sexy cover art is downright orgasmic. L. A. is one of my fave authors and never fails to deliver a sizzling read!



available from www.elllorascave.com
Grey is a vampire tired of his barren existence. Long ago, he learned to feed without killing but still he doesn't dare get close to a human. A feisty female being attacked by two males piques his interest and he rescues her. Shannon enthralls him but he knows he shouldn't get involved. Grey burns with desire for her but knows he can't force an immortal existence on her.

Shannon is a cancer survivor but, robbed of her ability to have children, she feels empty inside — barren, worthless, less than a woman. Their souls collide when they make love but she doesn't think he'll want a permanent relationship with her. Grey can have anyone.

Just when she feels whole again, a taste of her blood confirms that her cancer has returned. Grey wants her as his immortal mate but will either survive a vengeance-seeking vampire?

Next up, Rita Thedford’s One Dependable Man. Now of course we women joke about how you can’t depend on one. Which I guess is one of the things Rita intended to cross our minds when she so aptly named her latest release because we all keep dreaming about finding that One Dependable Man. But as with all things, my mind went straight to sex. Surprised? Doubt it. Anyway…she promises to “serve up a hefty helping of Texas syle lovin’ with a side of spice” with this one. And something tells me this guy never mows the lawn. So his dependability must have something to do with his ability to deliver red hot screeching monkey sex! (to borrow a line from my friend Trish Wilson, sex columnist).



available from www.thewildrosepress.com
Sunny Forester gave up her dream of finding a dependable man a long time ago After spending most of her life cleaning up the messes of lazy, shiftless Forester men she’s convinced that such an animal doesn't exist. When hunky rancher Matt McBride two-steps his way into her diner, though, all her preconceived notions about men begin to change. Vowing to repay a debt he owes to her dead brother, Matt McBride sweeps into the old diner and straight into Sunny's heart. He serves up a hefty helping of Texas-style lovin' with a side of spice for dessert, proving to this stubborn Texas woman that there is such a thing as a dependable man. In more ways than one.

Spicing Up Her Marriage by Paige Tyler has absolutely nothing to do with the kitchen spice rack. And you can take that to the bank. For those of you who are married you can probably identify with this title more than me. However, I do understand. And when I think of this tempting spanking story, I imagine a well placed palm with maybe a little ginger root! Oh the burn the burn! There’s only one thing to say in response to this book. Spank me, baby!



…available at http://www.romanticspankings.com
Madison Holloway wants to spice up her marriage, so she asks her friend for a little advice, and is shocked when the other girl mentions that spanking might be just the thing. How could spanking be fun? she wonders.

After witnessing her friend get a spanking, however, Madison is so intrigued that she decides she wants to try it herself. Now there’s just one problem. How is she going to get her husband, Trent, to spank her? There has to be a better way than coming out and asking for one, right?

My last example today is my very own Gabriel’s Horn. Trust me. This ain’t no musical and Gabe ain’t no musician. There’s not a trumpet to be found. I liken my Gabe to the Angel Gabriel—you know…the one with the horn. May he blow long and hard! And yes, I thought about it when I titled the book this way. The second book in the series is entitled Gabriel’s Gun. Care to guess?



available from www.darkedenpress.com
They say hell hath no fury like a woman scorned and Raquel is about to unleash hers. Married for five years to the love of her life, her sex life is sorely lacking. With the magic gone, her husband takes a lover. Desperate to get the goods on him and break their pre-nuptial agreement, Raquel walks straight into a trap, encountering a man who makes her feel things she never believed possible. When you play the game of payback, be careful of the man you choose, especially if that man is Gabriel.

The point is we as writers use many tools to entice readers to buy our books. Promotion starts at birth. We can have a sexy book cover. We can have a fanfreakingtastic blurb. But that title is what stands out. So my question for everyone today is this…How much thought do you put into naming your book? We’ve touched on this before. Of course the book needs to speak to the subject matter of its contents, but do you as a writer actually think about whether or not your title will help sell the book? And do you as a reader count on the title to tell you a little something about the book? Does it grab you? Give me your thoughts.

Now for a little more fun!
This is my fourth time blogging here at the Nice n’ Naughty Blog and it’s also my first time in the New Year. And since it is awards time in the publishing world, I thought it might be nice…and naughty… to give out an award of my own!


So who’s eligible? Anyone who posts a comment at the Nice n’ Naughty Blog to any of the ladies who blog here. Here’s the deal. It’s got to capture my attention. The comment can be something that changed my way of thinking or simply made me laugh. And I’ll be giving this award once every month.

What’s the award? Well you know me. I’m always blowing kisses and now I’m giving away Silver Kisses. Check it out! Designed by the oh so talented and incredibly beautiful Miss Brit—daughter of my dear friend AnneMarie Roberts—who by the way has a new release on January 15 from Dark Eden Press…an erotic suspense thriller that just plain kicks ass! Masque of Deception. Don’t forget to check it out at www.darkedenpress.com on January 15.



And the winners of Tess MacKall's Silver Kiss Award for the month of December 2007!

On Tempting Tuesday, Dec. 20 the following three comments were made to Anne Rainey’s Blog on Those Big Tough Men and Why We Love Them.

Mychael Black…who was honest enough to say “When it comes to sex and attraction, it starts with Fuck, I want THAT!” {Damn Straight!}

Scott…who gave us “As you ladies know, us men are basically all babies. We crave the same things we did as a kid. Food, sleep, and breasts.” And also for losing his blog cherry to The Nice n’ Naughty Blog! {I can cook, sing lullabies , and I’ve got ‘em.}

Desiree Lee…who made me think as she championed the Beta Male. “Give me the geek, the gamer, the goth, the quiet one. Let the hero impress me with his intellect rather than his pecs and biceps.” {Now I have more to choose from!}

On Seductive Sunday, Dec. 30 the following comment was made to C A Salo’s Blog on “Is It Too Much?”

Connie Northrup…for saying, “I think dainty people should stick to dainty stories and let the rest of us enjoy what we want.” {I so agree.}

On Mischief Makin’ Monday, Dec. 31 comments to yours truly—Tess MacKall’s Blog on
Does Size Matter?

Jeff…who said, “Women, you will not hurt our feelings and telling us will not slow the constant onslaught of attention we will give you in order to get into your pants! We do not care if you think our penis is too small, having sex with you still feels awesome to us. So, go ahead and shout it out!” {You can’t keep a good man down!}

Dave…”Writer's characters proclaim the wanton desire of a "Bigger Love Tool." Ok it helps sell and is good reading material.” {Marketing and a great read too! The point of today’s blog topic.}

Johnny D…for not apologizing for his use of sexually explicit language, but apologizing if he offended. {Now that’s a gentleman. Being true to himself, yet thinking of others.}

And that’s it for the January Tess MacKall Silver Kiss Awards. For all you winners, if you’d like to have the Silver Kiss Award to display on your MySpace page, blog or website send me an email to: tessmackall@gmail.com

Don’t forget tomorrow is Tasty Tuesday here at The Nice n’ Naughty Blog!

‘Til Next Time…Blowing Kisses,
Tess

Should they or Not...

Good morning all...

So on, January 3, 2008 I walked into my local WaldenBooks store, and as I was meandering through the aisles with my son, I decided to check out what new Ellora’s Cave books had come out.

I have to admit I do it for several reasons…

1. So I can look at the authors and smile as I say to myself…Hehe I’ve chatted with her/him (a little bit of self boosting going on there, but let’s be honest…we all do it – right, LOL.)

2. Hmmm, now that looks goooooood, towel to wipe up my drool please.

3. Damn that’s an awesome cover.

Okay, okay, back to the story...

As I strolled down to the back of the store where they’ve been kept on a back end cap facing the back wall, I was a bit surprised when I couldn’t find nary a one. I mean not one title, not one promotion any where in the store, because folks, I looked.

So as I was cashing out on a book for my son (Japanese Anime of course), I asked the clerk behind the counter. “Where’re all the Ellora’s Cave books?”

This is what stunned me people…

His reply was…. “We took them down for the holidays.”

HUH, did I just hear that right? I said “You took them down?”

He said “Yes.”

By that time I had my change, my son had his bag and was pulling on my sleeve to head out the door (You know…he got what he wanted, so it was time to leave. LOL.), so I looked at the man and said…

“I’m a published author and have chatted with several EC authors.” As I walked out the door.

The look on his face was…PRICELESS.

So on my drive home I’m thinking…EC and her authors made no money in this town of FL through the busiest shopping time of the year. That’s just plain sh*tty.

I’ve all ready let my EC author chatting friends know what happened, as well as some authors in my author groups.

What do you guys think…Do you think it was right of them to pull the books just because of the holidays?


OH…here’s an add on…

On my last blog we were talking about swear words in books. I found something out…LOL. Leave it to me right *Grins*

The F – Word, has been around since biblical times. That’s right folks, it stands for…

For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge

It’s in the bible, but of course someone took it and used the first letters to come out with…well the F- Word.

And The Award Goes To....

So the 2008 has started off with awards and polls going on. Yes we authors have awards for our work. No there is no big white stretch limo and a red carpet and cameras flashing from every side....But there are awards...

All that work sitting at the computer working away on our great book is awarded.

One of the bog polls/awards going on at the moment is Preditors & Editors Readers' Poll. It runs from Jan 1 to Jan 15,2008. This is a way to honor the published work via print and electronic publication of 2007.

I want to congratulate all of the authors, artists, publishers and book lovers that got nominated. Every author works hard and it's amazing to see a nomination for their work. It makes all the hard work that produced a book that much more special.

Being an author is not just sitting and writing a book, there is so much more that goes into it all. Editing, promotion, web sites and more. It might be a hard profession but at the end of the day it's more then worth all the work that goes into it all.

In your opinion do you think authors get enough recognition for their work? Do you think there should be more?

Books are such beautiful things, words that can bring so much to life. Take you away to far off places. Open your eyes to new worlds. If you have a moment go and check out all the fantastic books that have been nominated. There is so much to choose from. You might find your new favorite author. You never know....

If you haven't had the chance to check out the nominations please head on over and VOTE VOTE VOTE.... There is a ton of talent that is in the running.

Print/Electronic Horror Novel published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/novelh.shtml

Print/Electronic Romance Novel published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/novelr.shtml

Print/Electronic Science Fiction & Fantasy Novel published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/novelsf.shtml

Print/Electronic Erotica Novel published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/novelerot.shtml

Print/Electronic Mystery Novel published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/novelmys.shtml

Print/Electronic Novel (All other genres) published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/novel.shtml


Horror Short Story published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/shortstoryh.shtml

Romance Short Story published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/shortstoryr.shtml

Science Fiction & Fantasy Short Story published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/shortstorysf.shtml


Short Story (All other genres) published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/shortstory.shtml

Anthology published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/antho.shtml

Poem published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/poem.shtml

Nonfiction article published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/nonfiction.shtml

Artwork published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/artwork.shtml
Book/e-book Cover Artwork published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/bookart.shtml

Magazine/e-zine Cover Artwork published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/zineart.shtml

Author published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/author.shtml


Poet published in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/poet.shtml

Artist publishing in 2007
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/artist.shtml

Print/Electronic Book Editor
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/bookeditor.shtml

Magazine/e-zine Editor
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/zineeditor.shtml

Print/Electronic Books Publisher
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/ebookpublisher.shtml

Review site.
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/reviewsite.shtml

Bookstore
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/bookstore.shtml

Fiction e-zine
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/fictionzine.shtml

Poetry e-zine
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/poetryzine.shtml

Nonfiction e-zine
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/nonfictionzine.shtml

Writer's Discussion Forum
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/writerforum.shtml

Writer's Workshop
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/writerws.shtml

Writer's Resource/Information/News Source
http://www.critters.org/predpoll/writerinfo.shtml

What's in a name?

Hey all,

It took me a few days and a couple of name searches to come up with a name for the hero of my latest book. This has me thinking. I'm the curious sort and I like to ask questions. Do most authors spend a lot of time considering names for their characters? Do you name your characters before you start your book/outline? Do you consider the names important? How do you choose names?

Below are some names I recently saw listed as overused:

Luc
Wolf
Grey
Hawk
Brand
Jason
Stone

I admit I’ve used a couple of these. Actually, I used two of these for one character. In The Last Warrior, the hero’s name is Lone Wolf. It’s a time travel story and by the end of the book, he is called, Grey Wolfe. I thought both names were wonderful at the time.

As an author, I tend to agonize over the small details such as names but I wonder what readers think.

Readers: Do character names make a difference to you? Are there some names that you think are overused?

Are there names you find sexy or boring? Do certain names paint an image in your mind? If so, what?

I usually go for the strong names but my current WIP has a large, burly hero but I chose what I feel is a softer name, Michel.

I’d like to hear author and reader opinions of character names. Tell us some of your favorite/funniest/sexiest character names.

Here's what I think of some of my character names:
My sexiest is Damianos from Dancing for the Wolf.
My favorite is Johann Zcar from They Both Belong to Me.
My funniest is Bear Claw from Warrior of the Past (Coming soon to Ellora’s Cave)
Someone told me Bear Claw reminded them of a pastry and they wanted to eat him. I thought he'd enjoy that!

Thanks for stopping by,

Laura/LA Day

A keyboard and a fake name doesn’t make you a super villain

Okay, this subject has come up several times recently. One of my favorite authors was attacked via a reader on a blog and it made me think. Blogs and posting anonymous reviews on Amazon and the various sites like it are getting out of hand. It’s like writing dirty words on the bathroom wall in high school, stupid and immature. Haven’t we grown up yet?

We all know the truth. These same individuals would never say these things face to face. It’s the coward’s way out to choose to get snarky on the internet because you think no one really knows who you are. It’s become a free for all!

Let’s break this down shall we? These same people are probably mothers, daycare workers, teachers. Do you really think they go around talking shit in real life? My guess is no. They reserve their potty mouth for the internet. It’s like they suddenly become super villains, slaying authors with the click of a mouse!

The worst of the lot are the ones who pick a cutesy names and then pass themselves off as ‘professional reviewers’. I personally don’t find it amusing or charming, just pathetic and childish. And how do they find the time anyway? I have a husband, two kids, a house to maintain and my writing career to keep me busy. I’m lucky to get time to shower without one of my kids asking me questions! Finding time to read books, then post malicious, slanderous reviews about them on the internet is just not on my list of things to do. Weren’t they taught any better?

So, do me a favor, choose NOT to click on their site. Every single time you click their site, they get another hit, thus more reason to continue to act like an idiot with a keyboard.

The bottom line: A keyboard and a fake name doesn’t make you a super villain, just desperate and repulsive.

The Trouble with New Year's Resolutions!

I don't make New Year's Resolutions, but Tatum Webber, the heroine in my contemporary spanking romance The Trouble with New Year's Resolutions, always does. The thing is, she has a real problem sticking to them. So, when her husband Jarrett suggests that he give her a spanking every time she slips up, she agrees. It might be just the incentive she needs. And besides, he wouldn’t really spank her, she tells herself. But it turns out that Jarrett is completely serious about spanking her. And when Tatum’s best friend keeps ratting her out every time she slips up, she find herself getting spanked on a regular basis!

Excerpt:

Jarrett let out a sigh as he heard his wife’s car pulling into the garage. It was about time, he thought.When Tatum hadn’t shown up at the gym for their workout, he had been concerned, so he’d called her cell phone. Getting her voice mail, he’d then decided to call her office instead, only to find out that she had already left. Thinking that maybe his wife was just stuck in traffic, he had waited another ten minutes before trying her cell phone, only to get her voice mail again. He’d waited at the gym for another half hour, and when she still hadn’t shown up, he wondered if she had forgotten they were supposed to meet, and went straight home instead. But when he arrived back at their place, it was empty. Really concerned by that time, he had finally called her friend, Jennifer, hoping that she would know where Tatum was, only to find out that his wife had gone shopping at the mall with the other girl.So much for keeping her New Year’s resolutions, Jarrett thought wryly. Not only had Tatum blown off exercising with him, but she’d also gone shopping.

Not that he had really expected her to stick to her resolutions. In fact, he was secretly pleased that she hadn’t. Now, he would get to spank her!

Jarrett knew that probably sounded bad, but he had wanted to spank Tatum since he’d first started going out with her. She didn’t know it, but the thing that had first attracted him to her was her absolutely incredible ass. By the end of their first date, he was already dreaming about what it would be like to have that wonderful behind thrown over his knee for a good, sound spanking.

He had spanked other women before, mostly as foreplay, but for some reason, he just couldn’t ever seem to figure out how to bring up the subject to Tatum. He had started to think that it would probably never happen, and then out of the blue, she had asked for him to help her with her New Year’s resolutions. It had been an opportunity too good to pass up. Even though these spankings were going to be of the disciplinary variety rather than erotic, it was a start.

Of course, Tatum had never really thought he was serious when she had agreed to a spanking, but she was in for a big surprise. However, Jarrett knew he would have to temper his enthusiasm. This was her first time, and if he didn’t handle this right, then he would almost certainly turn her off from spanking completely. He definitely didn’t want to do that, he decided as the door leading into the garage opened and his wife walked into the kitchen.

Taking in Tatum’s petite, slender figure in the simple top and long, flowing skirt she was wearing, he pointedly checked his watch. “I was at the gym,” he said, folding his arms across his chest. “Where were you?”

Relieved that her husband didn’t sound angry, Tatum set her purse and gym bag down on the low bench along the wall before answering. “I’m sorry,” she said. “I know I was supposed to meet you there at six-thirty, but I got held up.”

Jarrett nodded, his blue eyes regarding her with interest. “At work?” he asked.

She busied herself with the mail that was sitting on the counter so she wouldn’t have to look at him. “Kind of,” she said noncommittally.

“Uh-huh,” he said. “And then you decided to stop by the mall to do some shopping on your way to the gym, I guess.”

Tatum’s head jerked up in surprise. “How did you know I went to the mall?” she asked.

“When you didn’t show at the gym, I got concerned,” he told her. “I tried your cell phone, and when I couldn’t reach you, I called your office. They told me that you’d already left, so I called Jennifer to see if she knew where you were, and she said that you went shopping with her. Which means that you broke one of your New Year’s resolutions, didn’t you?”

She folded her arms. “No, I didn’t,” she told him, lifting her chin. “I went to the mall, but I didn’t buy anything, so technically, I didn’t break the resolution I made.”

He considered that for a moment. “But you did still blow off going to the gym to exercise,” he pointed out.Tatum gave him a superior look. “Actually, I did go to the gym,” she said.

Jarrett lifted a brow. “And you exercised for the full thirty minutes?”

Her brow furrowed. “Wh-what?” she stammered.

He gestured to the list of resolutions that she’d hung up on the refrigerator with a magnet. “You said that you were going to exercise at least thirty minutes a day, three times a week,” he reminded her.

She chewed on her lower lip. “I...uhm...didn’t check my watch,” she mumbled.

“Which is your way of saying that you didn’t exercise for the full thirty minutes,” Jarrett concluded.

Tatum sighed in exasperation. “Okay,” she admitted. “I did ten minutes on the treadmill, and then I came home. I’ll make up for it next time.”

Jarrett shrugged. “Regardless of the fact that you blew me off, you still broke your resolution,” he said. “Which means that I’m going to have to give you a spanking.”

She blinked. “A what?”

“A spanking,” he repeated. “We did agree that was what I would do if you slipped up and broke your resolutions, didn’t we?”

“Well, yeah,” she said. “But that was because I didn’t think you were really going to do it.”

His mouth quirked. “Unlike you, babe,” he told her. “When I say I’m going to do something, I actually follow through on it.”

Buy Now!

*hugs*
Paige