Evie Balos

WICKED ANGEL: He's going to ruin her for the rest of mankind...

2012-02-25T12:02:00.000-05:00

A damn right fearsome guy, eh? That's how I like 'em sometimes. ;-)

He's going to ruin her for he rest of mankind.

Lana is a gifted healer. Her job is to treat angels who have been hurt by rogue Ahkran. Although awed by the winged race, only one angel unsettles her in ways too deliciously wicked for her own good. Julien. Muscle-ripped and fearsome, the chief enforcer is hardly angelic...could be her undoing if she succumbs to the unexpected interest he's taken in her. Called to treat his injury one night, Lana is determined to control her desire for him, do her job and leave. His proposition, however, stops her in her tracks.

Julien normally doesn't bed humans, yet the lovely healer tempts him beyond control. Surely, three nights with her in his bed are enough to quench his desire...

Book available at Cobblestone Press: http://www.cobblestone-press.com/catalog/books/wickedangel.htm

Genre: erotica with light romantic elements.

WICKED ANGEL AND COVER

2012-02-06T19:34:00.000-05:00

This just in! Ms. Sable Grey, what can I say? It rocks. You rock. Thanks so much!

Release date: February 15th
Publisher: Cobblestone Press
Heat level: Guaranteed to melt the snow off your porch

Here's an unedited blurb to tease your senses:

Lana is a gifted healer. Her job is to treat angels who have been hurt by rogue Ahkran. Although awed by the winged race, only one angel unsettles her in ways too deliciously wicked for her own good. Julien. Muscle-ripped and fearsome, the chief enforcer is hardly angelic...could be her undoing if she succumbs to the unexpected interest he's taken in her. Called to treat his injury one night, Lana is determined to control her desire for him, do her job and leave. His proposition, however, stops her in her tracks.

Julien normally doesn't bed humans, yet the lovely healer tempts him beyond control. Surely, three nights with her in his bed are enough to quench his desire...

Okay, thought I'd seen it all...

2012-01-27T21:27:00.000-05:00

You all must know the feeling...just when you say: "I've seen it all" something new manages to shock you.

I attended my Wednesday zumba class this week and being a tad late, I had to settle for a spot in the back of the room behind twenty people or so. Now picture this. Halfway through the class, with my heart rate pumping to a salsa beat, I look into the long mirror lining the front wall and see the reflection of a woman using her cell phone. I watch her, both mesmerized and disturbed, as her fingers punch away at the device. Yes, folks. She was texting. Quite effortlessly, while swinging her hips. I miss a couple of steps watching this. She sends her message off and slips the phone into the band of her leggings.

And while this is happening, I'm hoping the instructor asks her to stop using the phone, but he doesn't. Why do the rest of us have to be subjected to this obsession all the time, everywhere? One thing for sure about these phones...I know I haven't seen it all yet.

Since I couldn't find a picture depicting this incident I posted one that supports my number one cell phone pet peeve.

Rant away if you like.

It Would be Nice to be a Penguin Today

2012-01-12T15:40:00.000-05:00

I had to get rid of my Happy New Year's post because it was getting old, but I couldn't think of anything suitably creative or interesting for a blog post. Then I looked out the window of my home office and gazed at the twirling fall of thick snowflakes sinking into the two-foot carpet of snow in my backyard. And I thought: if I were a penguin, I'd be rolling around in that mass of fluffy white crystals and sliding off the banks by the river. But I'm not a penguin.

Just a writer taking advantage of an ideal day to write.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL

2011-12-31T12:51:00.000-05:00

May the new year bring the world and our loved ones peace, health and happiness.

Hugs,

Evie

Holiday Hunks pour Vous!

2011-12-21T21:24:00.004-05:00

As promised, I've posted a special Drool Factor post in the spirit of the holidays. Merry Christmas/happy holidays to all of you. It's a pleasure following the two dozen or so blogs I've taken a keen interest in--a source of daily entertainment, human spirit, and wisdom. I'd like to thank those who take the time to drop by mine when you have the chance. :-)

Feel free to salivate all over these hunks and express your thoughts as usual! (Copyright Gods, please forgive my blatant violations here.)

Can't resist a wet firefighter!

Angel Heat accepted by Cobblestone!

2011-12-11T22:29:00.000-05:00

Great news: The erotica I'd subbed to Cobblestone Press will be published some time in 2012. Doing the happy dance once again..:-) If all goes to plan it's slated for their brand new Blue Line of erotica, which features highly sexual stories between 3 - 5 K words.

I couldn't help re-posting that hunky angel for your (and my) viewing pleasure.

With Christmas upon me--yikes! I've only got one present down--three more to go--I won't be here much. I promise this though: one Drool Factor post before the new year.

Huggles.

Story Update: Angel Heat

2011-11-30T21:10:00.014-05:00

I JUST finished writing a very short erotica. It took me almost three weeks from start to finish because of too many interruptions, but it's done. Sent off to my publisher who will hopefully accept it. I titled it Angel Heat because the hero is an angel (although the only angelic things about him are his wings)...and yeah...he's pretty damn hot...not to mention the things he does with the heroine are, well, you get the hint.

Anywho...here's a teaser sneak peak at the seduction scene:

“I asked for you tonight, Lana.”

She processed this slowly. “Why me? There are many good healers.”

A whisper of wings and she felt his body’s heat behind her. Her pulse jumped as sexual tension coiled around them. His warm breath fanned her temple as his hands grasped her waist. “For one thing, you’re an excellent healer...and for another...” He pressed his erection between her butt cheeks, the size of it making her gasp. “...I rarely bed humans, Lana. But you tempt me like no other human female.” His response was a velvet growl that made her knees wobble.

She shut her eyes and melted into his powerful body as his hand slid up between her breasts and curved about her throat. The predatory action spiked her arousal. You tempt me too, Julien.

“I’ve wanted to fuck you since I first saw you. Take you at least two, three days straight.”

The emergency kit slipped from her fingers and landed with a thud on the carpet.

If there's a title of a tastefully written erotica you'd like to share, feel free to post it here. Erotica only please.

Blog Bits: New Review and Gum Surgery

2011-11-10T11:28:00.000-05:00

Miz Natalie Dae of Miz Love & Crew rated Primal Passion a #1 Top Pick with the sort of praise that makes me blush proudly, can't help it (really luv that rating button btw):

"Primal Passion is one hell of an earthy read. Yep, I got my vampire kick good and proper, but I also got so much more."

And one of my fav bits (on the hero): "He is damn hot, one fine specimen of vampireness that had me all aquiver with daydreams long after the book ended. I mean, can I get a pwoar here?" Clicky here to read the full review.

Next piece of news is that I had gum surgery yesterday :-( to treat an area of receding gum. But it's a good enough reason to take the day off my part-time job and use it to write the only sex scene in the short erotica I've been writing--after I pop another painkiller!

What's Your Fall Color?

2011-10-18T17:48:00.000-04:00

The transition from summer to fall is always a tad painful for me because the summers are short and winter is merciless in Canuck land. My catalysts for this transition are Thanksgiving (along with those gorgeous chrysanthemums and pumpkins) and, naturally, the beautiful fall fashion trends, which enevitably push my fall button--and I find myself eager to fill what little space I have left in my closet with new clothes.

Last year, I was googoo over all shades of brown. This year, it's purple. No clue why as I haven't always been keen on it. I'm loving purple blouses with flowing sleeves and high necks...sweaters, scarves, jewelry, lingerie--and I'm going to 'shellac' my nails dark purple so the color lasts a while.

What's your fall color? Does this change every year or is it constant?

Nutty Drivers

2011-10-06T19:27:00.000-04:00

Just when I thought I'd seen it all on the roads: texting, multi-tasking like the woman in the pic, eating, etc. I did a double take while pulling up next to a car during morning rush hour the other day. The woman behind the wheel was brushing her teeth. It looked like a semi-dry brushing...barely any toothpaste foam around the mouth...but still...brushing your teeth in the car?? Hey hon...Listerine strips (nudge-nudge).

What is the strangest/nuttiest thing you've seen a driver do?

Quotes to Live By..IMO anyway

2011-10-02T11:29:00.000-04:00

"It takes less time to do a thing right than it does to explain why you did it wrong."

-- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Feel free to post quotes that inspire you :-)

In the Clutches of a Great Book

2011-09-19T20:49:00.000-04:00

Tell me I'm not the only one who does this--especially when a book is so damn good. I woke up on Sunday morning and before doing anything else (besides rubbing the crusties from my eyes) I grabbed the book I've been consuming from my bedside table and finished reading a totally irresistible part followed by a couple of chapters. After a forced trip to the washroom, I tucked myself right back in bed and continued reading until late morning.

What do you do when you're in the clutches of a great book? Does it keep you up all night? In bed all day? Does it travel with you to and fro work?

Do tell!

So True Quote

2011-09-06T21:04:00.000-04:00

"Why do they call it rush hour if nothing moves?" -- Robin Williams

My sentiments exactly after being stuck in traffic on the way home today...and almost every day.

I am NOT ready for Fall

2011-08-23T20:35:00.000-04:00

This summer was amazing, honestly. I don't know actual weather statistics, but by my recollection there were significantly more sunny, warm days than rainy ones. A rare thing in Montreal. Every single one of us greedily lapped up every minute of bright sunshine and heat because we know what's around the corner. And then what follows: a cold, unforgiving winter of about five months. Don't even want to think about it. And ever get that anxious jab of realization when half the summer's over? And you haven't done many of the things you'd planned back in spring? It is, by far, the shortest, fastest season. In Canada and countries of similar climate, of course. You Floridians and the like better stop grinning!

I have to go shopping for fall clothes but I don't want to see them. They're dark and heavy, perched on mannequins and metal stands like crows in shop windows...beckoning to shoppers eager for the new season's fashion.

Anyway, in a show of gratitude to this year's summer (and may all our summers be this gorgeous), I've posted a dreamy pic which I'll leave up for as long as possible.

Julia Rachel Barrett's Incorporeal is Gracing my Blog today

2011-08-21T22:00:00.005-04:00

Julia, thank you for sharing your new release, Incorporeal, with us today. It's a paranormal romance with a dash of yummy erotic/adult scenes. It's got my attention already!

Enough of my blabbing...here's a blurb for ya:

Sara Wise is sick of ghosts. They’ve haunted her since she was a child, destroying her family, endangering her life. When an incorporeal being appears in her shower, she curses him soundly and orders him out, but this ghost is sticky. Not only does he invade her shower, he moves into her home, invading her dreams, sharing her bed. The reluctant Sara finds herself falling in love with a dead man.

Despite Sara’s objections, Natan de Manua isn’t permitted to leave. Protecting the woman is both his penance and his means to redemption. She’s not easy to protect, she fights him nearly every step of the way, except in her bed. Nathan may have come to regain his soul, but instead he risks losing his heart.

Now this is one ghost who gave me deliciously hot shivers!! Check out Incorporeal in the links below.

Buy link: http://amzn.to/mTvA1j

Website: http://juliarachelbarrett.net

HOT off the Digital Press

2011-07-26T21:22:00.000-04:00

My very first title with Total-E-Bound is now available! I wrote Give it to Me Spicy with erotica and erotic romance fans in mind. Add a generous dash of spice to your summer with this Lust Bites story.

The one man who can satisfy her deepest, most secret urges is the one she’ll have to stay away from.

Tara Duncan has been aching to have sex with her colleague, Jay, for six long months. He oozes the sort of delicious, wicked virility that would satisfy cravings her conservative exes could not. The steamy fantasies she entertains on a daily basis leave her even more sexually frustrated. Attraction sizzles like a live wire between them and Jay has made his interest in her plain enough. Problem is, there’s something going on between him and another colleague and Tara has no intention of becoming trophy number two.

Jay Moretti has wanted Tara ever since he met her. Her green eyes gleam with a restless flame that begs to be stoked. Lately, though, her vibes have cooled several degrees and he has no idea why. Good thing the new project will require frequent meetings with his curvy colleague—ones he plans to keep very private.

The book is available in multiple electronic formats. View at Total-E-Bound.

A Rawwring Review for Primal Passion

2011-07-23T19:02:00.000-04:00

The sassy and witty review divas of Miz Love & Crew gave Primal Passion a "rawwr"ing review! The talented Natalie Dae, in particular. Here's an extract of what she had to say about the book:

"Primal Passion is one hell of an earthy read. Yep, I got my vampire kick good and proper, but I also got so much more."

About the hero: "He is damn hot, one fine specimen of vampireness that had me all aquiver with daydreams long after the book ended. I mean, can I get a pwoar here? He’s masculine, caring, but the ultimate “thing” about him that did it was the sense of danger that for me, poured off him in waves."

Want to read more of the review? Clicky right here.

Want to check out Primal Passion at Cobblestone Press? Clicky here.

She will not fall for his game of seduction…no matter how tempting it is.

An Evening of Calamity

2011-07-17T22:15:00.000-04:00

Saturday the 16th. Do you believe in jinxing yourself--or getting jinxed? I do. When my friend Maria called me yesterday to arrange dinner plans, I believe she set the wheels in motion for an evening of calamity. Here's a summary of the jinx part:

Maria: "What are you wearing tonight?"

Me: "I don't know...something light for sure...it's hot and unlikely to cool off. A sleeveless top and maybe white capris."

Maria: "White? I was thinking white too, but since you're considering that, I'll go with something else. Plus, if we're sitting on a terrace, white is a risk."

Me: "Nah, I often wear white pants in the summer...never had a problem. I mean, it's not like we're having a picnic in a park...they keep the chairs clean."

Maria: "Well, go ahead and wear the white capris then. I think I'll go with black."

Me (shrugging): "Whatever you like. But keep it light 'cause it's humid."

So I picked Maria up around seven forty-five because I got delayed by a few phone calls once I got home from the hairdresser's. I took the quickest route to our downtown destination. Now, for those of you who don't know, Montreal is a construction nightmare in the summer, constricted by what seems like a gazillion road and highway projects (and often during weekends!)

Naturally, the one highway I had to take was afflicted by one of these, narrowing three lanes down to two, then to one. Snail's crawl into the city. We hit one jam after another there too. (No need to sully my blog with the string of unladylike words I used.) I finally pulled into a parking lot around nine-fifteen, hunger pangs protesting in my tummy big time. We waited eight minutes for the guy with the VALET t-shirt to come up to my window and tell us that we could park here only if we had enough money in change to pay via the machine.

I asked him how much the maximum was and he shrugged and said: "I don't know. I don't work here--I'm just valet." Okaaay. I could feel my nostrils flaring but I pasted a smile on my face and asked him where I could pay without using the machine. He pointed to another lot behind a high fence. This lot came with a real employee, thank goodness.

The French bistro Maria had been itching to go to was located in a walled courtyard shaded by umbrellas and trees. A little too dark for my taste, but I like trying out new places. We got seated at the darkest corner in the yard, never a good omen for me. (I inspected the chair before sitting.) We squinted at the menu, shifting the single candle around to see the list until the hostess brought us a second one.

We ordered and settled into some cozy girl talk. The waiter approached with our wine and as I turned to look up at him, the tray he was holding somehow tipped and knocked one of the glasses over, splattering me with some of its contents. He was appalled and I was mildly shocked. Luckily, I'd ordered white wine. He immediately brought me a cloth napkin to soak up the wet spots while apologizing profusely. Shit happens. There are worse things.

Once he was out of earshot, I say to Maria: "I think you jinxed me."

Our duck risottos arrived (my wine glass safely in my hand just in case). We're not overly picky gals. But the rice had a grainy texture. Maria, being of Italian descent, knows her risotto. She didn't hesitate to request that our meals were cooked to at least "al dente" texture. The look of dismay on the waiter's face made me want to crawl under the table. The poor guy was still recovering from the wine accident. And to tell the truth, I never feel comfortable returning my plate to the kitchen with a complaint if you know what I mean.

The waiter took our plates back. In short, it was an overpriced, unsatisfactory meal, despite the re-cooking.

We headed off to the main square by the harbor. It was about 90F, no breeze. We digested the risotto while wandering through the dense crowd, stopping at various artist kiosks...slowly working our appetite up for dessert. We ended up in front of a couple of ice cream shops. The perfect treat in this weather. Maria opted for gelatto and I went for regular ice cream. She got hers in a cup, but unfortunately my shop had run out of cups so I ordered it on a cone.

We spotted a vacant table nearby and made a beeline for it. As soon as we sat down, Maria says: "Oh, your ice cream's dripping."

I knew I'd made a mistake getting that cone. The ice cream was melting faster than I could eat it. Maria was helping me wrap layers of napkins around the cone while giggling. Just when I'd managed to control the situation, a pert young waitress walked up to us and told us that we couldn't sit here.

"Why?" we both ask.

"Because the tables here belong to the café. I'm sorry."

We look at the adjoining building she'd indicated. Crap. So we had to get up and leave. Kind of embarrassing but even worse, my ice cream was out of control again, seeping through the napkins. Double crap. I felt like a sloppy little kid, not a grown woman who has semi-regular manicures.

"Oh, it just dripped onto your top." Maria informs me, cringing at my pitiful situation. "Right there...just over your boob."

Lovely.

I sighed and dumped the ice cream into the first garbage bin I came across. Maria handed me the last of her napkins. I spent the rest of the evening walking around wearing alcohol and ice cream and wondering what mishap I'd encounter next.

Nothing happened. My evening of calamity was over. The white capris and top have since been washed--ready to be worn again. As for the jinx, it's been logged into a mental jinx file I keep for purposes of self-preservation. :-) Ever been jinxed? Tell me about it!

Refreshing, Super Healthy Smoothie

2011-07-05T12:40:00.000-04:00

The cool thing about fruit smoothies is that they are easy and quick to make and are rich in antioxidants. (An antioxident is a molecule that inhibits the production of free radicals in our bodies, which can cause cancer and other diseases).

The brighter/deeper color of the fruit, the more antioxidants it contains. With this in mind, I've created my own smoothie recipes, and I'll share one I really enjoy. See below.

one cup of no pulp orange juice

1 cup blueberries

3/4 cup raspberries

3/4 cup strawberries

1 thickly-chopped banana

1/2 cup low fat plain yogurt

Drop ingredients into a blender. Blend until very smooth.

Of course, ingredients can be adjusted and varied to taste. There are many other fruits you can try such as melon, kiwi, blackberry etc...For an extra light drink, skip the yoghurt.

Enjoy!

Vroom-Vroom!! Grand Prix in Montreal

2011-06-13T12:56:00.000-04:00

If the sound of an 800 horsepower engine gives you an adrenaline rush, chances are you've seen a few live or televised automobile races. You might even be a fan. Formula 1 is a world-renowned championship automobile race that holds its races in many lovely cities around the world--in Europe, Asia, Canada and the U.S.

This weekend it was hosted here in my hometown, Montreal, and it draws thousands of foreigners to the city, who celebrate it with the locals over a three-day weekend filled with exciting events like outdoor concerts, parties, car shows and so on. Although I don't go ga-ga over the hype and I'm generally not a hardcore adrenaline junkie, I am mesmerized by the sexiness of the race. The speed combined with the danger and some pretty good-looking drivers rev my hormones, admittedly. ;-)

Left pic: Aerial view of Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, named after champion Canadian driver. 

Live bands, Grand Prix kiosks and bars on Crescent Street

(Sis and I braved the boisterous crowd to grab a few drinks at a local pub.)

How about you gals or guys? Is auto racing sexy? Does it rev your engine??

Reveal that Cover--it's Here so I'm Giving it to You

2011-05-29T19:40:00.000-04:00

Give it to Me Spicy has an official face. And a new banner! Me so happy. ;-)

Without further ado, raise the curtains please...

Coming to Total-E-Bound on July 25, 2011

The one man who can satisfy her deepest, most secret urges, is the one she'll have to stay away from...

Officially Swamped

2011-05-20T15:09:00.000-04:00

I've been a bad blogger these days. :-( In fact, my Internet activity has been reduced to a couple of obligatory emails. I barely have time to pee because I'm swamped with all kinds of edits: working on round-one edits for my current story, editing two manuscripts against client deadlines (two very different genres, two very different voices), and critiquing an 80 K word story for a friend who had hoped to get feedback a week ago.

Can I sigh loud enough?

Because I luv my devout followers so much, I came up with a little somethin' with which to keep you occupied until my return.

Comment away...I'll catch up by next week, hopefully.

TBR Pile Management

2011-05-12T12:50:00.000-04:00

I'm the sort of reader that has fairly good control of my TBR pile. I buy and read. My pile has only gotten out of control a couple of times when I purchased several books at once. Luckily, I'm a quick reader, usually devouring a good book in a matter of days. My TBR issue is that it tends to take me a long time to start reading a book. For example, I had Dan Brown's The Lost Symbol collecting dust on my bookshelf for at least a month (too long for me as I used to read one book weekly.) But I'm juggling a busier schedule now so leisure time is limited.

Going back to Brown, I get genre-cravings in cycles and I needed a juicy thriller fix for some time. So I finally gave into it, reading at night before bed. I'm halfway through this book, which I recommend to all thriller fans, though most of you have probably already read it.

What kind of reader are you? Is your TBR pile out of control? How long does it take you to start a new book?

A little bit of Nina Pierce

2011-05-09T22:06:00.001-04:00

Talented romance author Nina Pierce is in my blog home today with a sexy blurb from her hot-off-the-digital-press Blind Love. But first, a bit of Q & A. ;-)

Nina, what little--or big--factors guided you into the world of romance writing?

Nina: Romance Writing? My mother was an avid reader. Books were always laying around on coffee tables and the kitchen bar. So of course I grew up reading everything. Then one day I picked up Colleen McCullough’s Thornbirds. Forbidden loves. Infidelity. Secret babies. Broken promises. OMG! A whole new world was opened up to me and I was hooked. With romance falling into all genres from medical thrillers to sexy erotic romance and covering time periods from regency England to the future, I can feed my reading addiction with all kinds of stories. Of course when I was hit with the writing bug there was no question I would write romance stories.

Many authors like to create a particular environment when writing. Do you listen to music? Write in bed? Have a glass of wine? (I'm big on the smell of my surroundings, so I always light a vanilla or lavender-scented burner.)

Nina: I write on a PC, sitting at a desk in the family room surrounded by the conversations of my family and much of the time, the television burbling in the background. Funny thing is, even with all that chaos I can’t write with music on. I’ve tried working on a laptop in different rooms, but it just doesn’t work for me.

Is there something special about your newest book, Blind Love, that you want to share?

Nina: Blind Love is the first book in an erotic suspense series. Each of these books stands alone, but there’s a mystery threaded through the whole series that was really challenging to write. I love these three sisters and I hope readers will pick up Blind Love and journey with the Tilling sisters to find their true loves.

He’s a shock jock looking to reform. She’s an accountant hoping to cut loose. Can love open their eyes to forever?

Uptight CPA and oldest sister, JULIE TILLING, is the glue that binds her family. Everyone depends on her to do the right thing. When her friend from high school dies and Julie is the only one who believes he didn’t commit suicide, she takes it upon herself to investigate his death.

DAMON COREY didn’t come to Maine to become a shock jock. But when his dream career of becoming a concert pianist seems unobtainable, the radio station’s offer is too good to pass up. When mysterious brunette Jewel, hooks up with him at the night club run by a college frat brother, their one night fling wraps around his heart and makes him believe in love at first sight.

But can Damon expose his inner soul without pushing Julie away or will his enigmatic shock jock persona become Julie’s sexual undoing and reveal him as the missing piece that solves the puzzling questions surrounding her friend’s death?

Thanks for sharing a little bit of your world, Nina, and congrats on the new release!

You can pick up your copy of Blind Love in these online stores:

BUY Link for KINDLE Lovers: http://tinyurl.com/6gp5f5a
BUY Link for NOOK Lovers: http://tinyurl.com/3u49gby
All other formats: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/54268

Blue Ribbon Review for Primal Passion

2011-05-04T12:31:00.000-04:00

Yeah, baby! That was the first thing out of my mouth when I read this new fab review of Primal Passion, especially as it was written by seasoned reviewer, Chrissy Dionne. I enjoyed her introduction of the book so much I had to post it:

Dhampir agent Milan Markovic is proud of the strides his kind (half human/half vampire) have made in keeping humans safe from vampires who would prey on them. That doesn’t mean he wants the whole sordid mess splashed all over the newspapers. When he catches Tess in the act of snapping pictures following the arrest of a couple of rogue vampires Milan can’t resist toying with her – just a little. If she wants her story she’s going to have to meet his terms.

Rating: Blue Ribbon 4.5. "PRIMAL PASSION is full of sexually charged tension with an underlying emotional connection that makes this an utterly satisfying read." --Chrissy Dionne, Romance Junkies.

To read the review click this link.

The first chapter of the book is posted at Cobblestone Press, right here.

My Scoop on the Royal Wedding

2011-04-30T12:21:00.000-04:00

I watched the taped version of the royal wedding at the comfortable hour of 9pm--nah--wasn't going to get up at any rooster hour. Overall, I thought it was a beautiful, fairy tale wedding (as expected) with understated elegance.

Things I liked:

The sea of happy faces along the streets leading up to Westminster Abbey. With all the awful, unfortunate things happening in the world, it's nice to see some simple human joy.

Kate's wedding dress. I didn't expect her to wear a puffy princess dress. She was stunning in a dress that was elegant yet simple and youthful.

The way her dad placed the train of her dress across his knees in the car.

Impressive also was "Dad's" composure the whole time. After all, his daughter's marrying into one of the most powerful royal families in the world.

Her sister's dress and her procession into the Abbey holding the flower girls' hands. Very sweet.

Prince William's Irish Guard uniform--also very regal.

The interesting variety of hats worn by the female guests.

The all-boy choir and their rendition of the ethereal hymns was a highlight.

Kate's brother's speech.

Prince William (now Duke of Cambridge) driving away in an old Aston Martin with his wife (now Duchess of Cambridge). The car sported a "Just Wed" license plate and helium balloons. Nice touch of humor.

The fact that the couple has adopted a normal wave as opposed to the Queen's stiff, awkward wave.

The first royal kiss on the balcony at Buckingham Palace--and the second one even better!

What I didn't like:

Queen Elizabeth's canary-yellow outfit. Ouch...my eyes. Of all the colors????

What were your favorite moments of the wedding?

Easter and the Zeppole in my fridge

2011-04-25T15:58:00.000-04:00

We were blessed with lovely spring weather yesterday, after a week of cool temps and high winds. Just in time for Easter. A light jacket allowed us to bask in the sun and enjoy the smells of chicken, lamb, and sausage cooking on the barbecue, accompanied by an almost obligatory glass of wine. Yep, it's virtually thrust into your hand soon after you've stepped through the front door of the host's home. The latter being my sister's in-laws' this year.

I'm a bit of a foodie. I enjoy all kinds of food although I rarely overindulge. My exceptions are special holidays like Easter because those are meant to be shared with family and good food. So when I consumed about five thousands calories in a single afternoon yesterday, I didn't experience pangs of guilt. The food was delicious, but I always leave room for dessert. There was a rich spread to choose from, including one unusual little pastry that I was looking forward to. A quarter of my extended family has Italian roots. The Italians make a holiday pastry called zeppola, plural: zeppole according to Wikipedia.

The zeppola, by tradition, is referred to as St. Joseph's Day cake. Picture a cross between a fluffy donut and a cream puff...or...just look at the pic on the left. Zeppole are either fried or baked and filled with custard, cannoli, or ricotta cheese.

Some history: Eating zeppole on March 19 is a Catholic-Italian tradition that takes place during the fasting season of Lent. Legend has it that this tradition began in Sicily during the Middle Ages in the midst of a severe drought when people prayed to St. Joseph for intervention.

The zeppola I had was simply divine. So when my sister's mother-in-law offered to doggy-bag a couple of them--how could I possibly resist? If you love creamy pastry delights, treat your sweet tooth to a good zeppola or two. Without the guilt.

Drool Factor Post: Just Plain Beautiful

2011-04-13T13:07:00.000-04:00

Beautiful is a word I rarely use to describe a man. But my search for material for this Drool Factor post led me to these guys who go beyond "hunk." Because, IMO, they're just plain beautiful. Ladies--check out those lips!!

If you could reach out and touch one part of their face, which would you touch first? I think you know my answer. ;-)

Model Adam Senn

True Beauty contestant Joel Rush

Greek singer and show host Sakis Rouvas

Hmm...wish I knew

Criminal Minds actor Shemar Moore

Supernatural actor Jensen Ackles

You could even call him pretty ;-)

Adam Senn close-up

New Book Contract!

2011-04-07T10:54:00.000-04:00

Great news! Total-e-Bound has offered me a contract for the erotica I'd been working on for some time. It will be several months before the book's out, but I had to share the news. :-)

I've also got two book ideas bouncing around in my head, fighting each other for first place. Hope they sort themselves out because they're driving me nuts, lol.

PS. Isn't that kitty adorable?

Party time at Night Owl Reviews!

2011-04-02T17:29:00.000-04:00

Lovely readers!

You're invited...

To a LIVE chat party. That's right! Join moi, Evie Balos, Julia Rachel Barrett and Nina Pierce on Monday, April 4th at 8pm EST at Night Owl Reviews for an evening of unadulterated fun. 18 + chat, so you've been warned!

Have your party shoes ready, because these chats get hopping! ;-)

Chat room: http://nightowlreviews.com/nor/Pages/Chat.aspx

Check us out right here:

www.eviebalos.com
http://juliarachelbarrett.net/
http://ninapierce.com/

Book Release: Primal Passion at Cobblestone Press

2011-03-25T21:56:00.000-04:00

What a sweet day! Book two in the Dhampir Desire series is out. The series has a special place in my heart, partly because it's a developing series--and I've always been fond of these--partly because I truly lost myself in this bold world of dhampirs, vampires and humans, and partly because both stories drove me like a demon. And for me, those are the best ones.

Did I mention I'm head over heels in love with my heroes? Jovan Markovic in The Unnecessary Bodyguard and Milan Markovic in Primal Passion. You guessed it, these scrumptious guys are brothers.

Primal Passion releases today at Cobblestone Press. The genre is urban paranormal, erotic romance, so it's pretty steamy on the heat level scale. Sable, if you're reading this, thank you for your artistic talent--I love the cover! And a big thank you to my research contacts in Chicago, my critique partner, my editor, and everyone behind the scenes at CP.

Crime reporter Tess Nielsen is determined to get an exclusive vampire story, even if it means indulging a certain dhampir agent, whose dangerous sensuality sets her blood on fire. She lands in a bit of vampire trouble, but she can take care of herself, which is why she’s infuriated when the sexy agent intervenes and carries her off to his home.

Milan Markovic likes his affairs hot and brief. Spirited Tess Nielsen stirs his most primal instincts, but she suspects his only motive is seduction. It isn’t until Tess is kidnapped that he realizes his feelings for her aren’t limited to physical pleasure. Losing her isn’t an option.

*A dhampir is a half-human, half-vampire being that exists in Balkan folklore. According to the tales, dhampirs are considered to be the best vampire hunters.

You can read the first chapter at Cobblestone Press right here.

St. Patrick's with a few Irish Hunks

2011-03-17T13:24:00.000-04:00

I'm not Irish but I admit I wish I were at least once a year--a good excuse to wear one of those "Kiss Me I'm Irish" tee-shirts. What better way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day on my blog than by bringing you some Irish yumminess. Ryan Reynolds stole a piece of my heart when he starred alongside Sandra Bullock in The Proposal--talk about a sweeeet smile!

I couldn't resist the traditional appeal of the kilt-wearing male.

Were I a sculptor...

Ladies, do you fancy a kilted man? Drop by and tell me about your ideal Irish hunk. ;-)

Happy St. Patrick's!

Men: Do You Read Romance?

2011-03-10T15:35:00.000-05:00

I've given myself a little mission now that I'm taking a break from my story before I tackle edits. Find as many male readers of romance as possible. The idea for this post came to me while looking at the various followers on romance authors' blogs, mine included. The majority are female, understandably, but there's a good portion of male followers. A fact that sparked these questions:

How many of these men read romance? Whether they're straight or gay it doesn't matter.

And if you guys are reading this post--hopefully some of you are!--what subgenres or type of romance do you read?

Women: Do your husbands/BFs/male friends read romance? (Hey, even my old school dad read one of my Harlequins years ago and liked it!)

A quick search on Google led me to a Romance Writers of America statistics page. Some interesting numbers:

•74.8 million people read at least one romance novel in 2008.

•Women make up 90.5 percent of the romance readership, and men make up 9.5 percent.

The male-female percentage makes sense, although this survey doesn't reflect ebook purchases specifically. I'm almost positive there's a much higher percentage of men who read romance ebooks versus print romance because the ebook industry offers a wider range of subgenres and heat levels. Moreover, many male authors (I'm guessing this number's increasing) write romance under male or female pen names--which means they're avid readers of romance too.

So let me end this post by requesting a shout-out from men who read romance and women who know men that do.

RWA Source: http://www.rwa.org/cs/readership_stats

Featured Guest: Jane Toombs

2011-03-06T22:00:00.001-05:00

Let's give a warm welcome to my guest, the legendary Jane Toombs. Now don't go blushing on me, Jane. ;-) With some eighty plus published books in just about every romance genre as well as non romance, it's a well-deserved title.

I couldn't resist asking Jane a few questions, of course. I'm also showcasing her new release, Hallow House, which a reviewer describes as: "Victoria Holt meets Stephen King."

Jane, you've got a very impressive writing history, dating back to the '70s. Did you begin writing romance from the start?

A published mystery writer, teaching a writing class I took, became interested in the gothic romance I was writing--my first attempt at a novel. Before that I'd written some short stories I never sent anywhere. He critiqued my book in class, then told me privately that if I finished it he'd send it to his agent. I did and he did. And the agent did sell it to Avon. So in 1972, Tule Witch, my first book was published. At that point I gave up short stories (mine had always been dark ones) realizing romance was really what I wanted to write.

How has your writing changed/evolved over the years?

For one thing I stopped trying to write "literary" short stories. The market for gothics became glutted and I saw that historical romances were selling well. So I wrote one. After my writer husband, who was rather a somber guy, finished laughing at my love scenes ( those early gothics were all "sweet" ones), he told me the book was going well otherwise, but the love scenes were impossible. After a struggle I managed to get over my reluctance to write sex scenes and my agent sold my first historical romance. When the market for these cratered, contemporary romance flourished, so I switched. My first idea had an interior decorator hero who was terrified of snakes and a herpetologist heroine. At a conference I told a good friend who wrote for Harlequin/Silhouette about it and she hauled me over to her editor and made me repeat the idea to the editor. The editor loved it and asked for a partial. So I became an H/S author.

All this time, what I really wanted to write was paranormal. I'd managed to sneak some bits of it into my gothics and historicals, but now I was writing for H/S lines that didn't allow any mention of such a thing and my books had to be tailored to fit. I did write six Shadows, which I loved doing, but then they stopped that line and I had to go back to no paranormal. Which is why I eventually got tired of writing for H/S. Epublishing was in its infancy, so I began writing for the epubs and have never regretted it.

You're a highly prolific writer, but what is the one thing you love to do when you're not writing?

Read. I like most genres, including non-fiction, but my attraction to paranormal is reflected in my reading as well.

Any wise words for debut authors?

I'm sure they're all tired of hearing this, but persistence pays off. Of course one does need a bit of some talent, because that's something you can't learn, but have to be born with. I took a few writing courses along the way. All but one were essentially worthless because they were not taught by published writers. That mystery writer's critiques showed me what was wrong with my writing as well as what was right. So critiquing can be a real help if you get someone who knows what they're talking about. The trouble with contests is that some folks are good at this art and some are not. Which is why Janet Lane Walters and I wrote Becoming Your Own Critique Partner awhile back. In case anyone is interested, this year Zumaya, the publisher, is putting out a new edition of the book .

Blurb:

A house built for love and cursed with death. Two children, one will live, one will die. Magic potions and secret rooms. Is there a curse or does evil reside with innocence? What is the real secret of Hallow House?

Treat yourself to part one of this multigenerational, paranormal gothic suspense romance. Talk about an awesome combination of subgenres!

Buy link: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/43919
Jane Toombs web site: http://www.janetoombs.com/
I also have a page at http://www.jewelsofthequill.com/ Click on Authors and then my name and it will come up.

Edits--I admit I love 'em

2011-03-04T17:37:00.000-05:00

I finished my wip a few days ago, and as usual, I take a break from it before starting the first round of edits--I usually do two. Some author buddies of mine simply tackle the edits right away, and that's fine--we all work differently. I admit that I need that physical and mental distance from the story, otherwise I'm just too weary-eyed and biased to see all the weak areas.

I don't know if my proofreading job has some influence, but I love editing my stories--putting the finishing touches on my "masterpiece". The relentless drive of my muse is exciting, but only when it tapers off can I look at my story with a calm, clear mind, which is why editing is one of my favorite parts of the writing process.

I actually suffer a certain degree of restlessness during my break from my wip because I'm itching to do the edits. Once I've got my fresh pair of eyes, those problem areas are magnified. The story now undergoes what I call a surgical car wash: nip and tuck, clean and polish.

I'm presently in the restless break phase with a Marian Keyes' book to help keep my mind off the story.

How about you guys? Edits: love 'em or hate 'em?

Author Lynne Connolly Visits Today

2011-02-27T20:22:00.000-05:00

I'm excited to have my friend and super-talented romance author, Lynne Connolly here today! She's a very busy lady, but I managed to grab her undivided attention for a little interview. Lynne also gives us a sneak peek at her upcoming releases, Hareton Hall and Griffin’s Treasure.

Lynne, how long have you been writing professionally, and who are you published with?

My first book was published in 2002. It was “Yorkshire,” the first Richard and Rose, the book that has been with three publishers! It and the rest of the series are now with Samhain Publishing. I also have books with Ellora’s Cave, Loose-Id, Total E-bound, Awe-Struck, Champagne Books and Uncial Press. They’re a mixture of paranormal, contemporary and historical.

Your books fall under several romance genres—is there one you enjoy writing the most?

Historicals are my first love, and I really enjoy doing the research. Most of my historical romances are set in the mid Georgian era, around 1754. Visiting the houses, art galleries and museums is a real treat. I often go with my friend Jean Fullerton, who writes books set in the Victorian era, or Annie Burrows, who writes for Harlequin.

However, with the paranormals, I get to do a whole new area of research. My shape-shifters are mythical beasts (I don’t do weres) and I’ve loved doing them. The contemporaries – well, I have to visit the States to do some research, don’t I?

Writing them all is very similar, although some people think I have distinctly different “voices” for each genre. I learn the characters, get to know them, and then set them on their path. I’m a planner, but I don’t go into enormously detailed plans. I tend to work from a synopsis, but the characters really come alive on the page, and often I find myself changing the ending, because they won’t let me do it the way I planned!

What are two fun, not-so-known facts about you? (I love being nosy.)

I live in the UK, but that’s not really little-known! I do, however, collect and make doll’s houses. I have three large ones and a number of room boxes and little shops. I absolutely adore making them, and they are a nice break from the writing sometimes. If you hunt on my website, you can see some of them?

Another one? Hmm, not so sure. I have gypsy ancestry, which I draw on for stories, but people know that, too.

How about my connection with famous murderers? My grandmother’s best friend, Bessie Love, was one of the victims of George Joseph Smith, the Brides in the Bath murderer. He married them (bigamously), then drowned them on honeymoon and claimed the insurance.

My auntie beaned the sadistic murderer Neville Heath with a big jar of cold cream. It was wartime and she’d taken the jar out on her date because she was worried her sisters would use it while she was out! But at the end of the date, he got too fresh, so she hit him with her handbag, which happened to contain the jar.

And I was approached by the Cannock Chase murderer. I really don’t remember a lot about it, but I did look like one of the unfortunate little girls whose bodies were found on Cannock Chase, a local beauty spot. He asked me if I wanted a sweetie (candy) and a ride in his car. I screamed and ran. Later, some very nice policemen asked me a lot of questions. I do hope that I helped to catch him.

What inspired your upcoming release?

There are two, actually. “Hareton Hall” is the latest Richard and Rose, the seventh. Each book features the same couple, and in this cycle, they have to fight enemies of their own making and ones who are fighting for political control by blackmailing or coercing the government. In this book, the two factions join forces – oh yes and Rose is pregnant again, so Richard is frantically worried, as he always is.

Hareton Hall is available at Samhain Publishing on April 15th, and there’s an excerpt on my website if you want to check it out.

“Griffin’s Treasure” is the reprint of the book that won the EPPIE (now the Epic Awards) for paranormal romance in 2004. It’s about Josh, an English soccer star, and Chana, the stepdaughter of the new owner of the club Josh plays for. Soccer is the sport in every country except the USA, with the most valuable clubs in the world and enormous amounts of money changing hands when a player is sold – and the player gets a cut. Josh is also a shape-shifting griffin. When his brother, also a soccer star, is kidnapped, Josh comes to San Francisco to find him. And plunges headlong into danger.

I’ve rewritten this book heavily. It’s steamier, has new characters, so that only the basic plot remains. I loved revisiting Josh and Chana! It’s available from Loose-Id llc on 8th March 2011.

Most of your titles are pretty steamy—do you arrange your physical environment in a special way when writing the hot scenes?

Interesting you should say that! Recently the Ellora’s Cave author group did a comparison – what were we wearing when we wrote our sexiest scenes? Almost without exception it was a variation on sweats and fluffy bunny slippers! I wear huge T-shirts around the house, since I don’t like pants, and abhor leggings. Socks for me!

I’m sorry. I do have some sexy negligees and some lovely clothes, but dressing up to write the steam isn’t necessary, and might not be helpful, since it’s best to be comfortable. A glass of red wine doesn’t go amiss though! My favorite is Nuit St. Georges, a deep, rich burgundy, which was how I met my husband – his favorite is Gevrey Chambertin clos de Beze, which happens to be made the other side of the river to Nuit St. Georges. I’m not a wine snob, but when I have something I like, I memorize the name. I do like music, as well, but that varies from Mozart to Muse. Muse are aptly named – their music is very evocative. And then there are the old favorites – Led Zeppelin, the Chemical Brothers and Handel – not all at the same time!

Lynne, thank you so much for giving us a glimpse into your work and your life. Folks, be sure to add these hot page-turners to your reading list!

International soccer star Josh Friedland has a secret. He's a griffin shapeshifter, and a covert operative for Department 57. Josh's brother Laurie is missing, and Josh is sure businessman George Skeffington is involved.

So he can't trust Skeffington's stepdaughter, Chana Rafiz, even though he wants her with every cell in his body.

When her controlling stepfather asks Chana to look after his guest, she suspects another trick to keep her by his side. Only to find that Josh is the man she's been waiting for all her life.

Long, hot Californian nights see their bodies twined in more inventive positions than Chana knew existed, but when she finally discovers his secret, she uncovers one of her own. One she doesn’t even know about herself.

Together, Josh and Chana have to face dangers only Department 57 can help them with, only to plunge the whole Department into peril. If Cristos and the Department are to endure, Josh and Chana must succeed in their mission.

Out on March 8th from Loose-Id

http://lynneconnolly.com/GriffinsTreasure.html

March is around the corner...Already??

2011-02-22T16:28:00.000-05:00

Omg...I just took a good look at the calendar...it's already the 22nd. When did that happen?? We had a week long blizzard that swept through here and dumped about three feet of snow on us but now it's crusty and solid and the sun's a huge, blinding ball. And March--spring--is almost here. Yikes! So is my b-day.

Anyone else a March baby? Or a spring baby? Maybe we can have a cyber drink together. ;-)

ebook Piracy: How does it Happen?

2011-02-18T22:53:00.001-05:00

The Internet is an amazing tool that continually evolves and grows like a real being. In fact it is alive...teeming with business transactions, buzzing with communication between two people or millions, drumming with the sounds of videos, and overflowing with information. The ebook belongs to this lively, thriving world.

An ebook can be downloaded in minutes or even seconds. Unlike print books, e-books are not physically protected from theft due to the ease of online file transfers and the existence of file storage sites where individuals can upload their personal files—including ebooks—and set up public download links to these files.

That is where a good deal of ebook piracy takes place, perhaps innocently in some cases. For the most part, owners of these sites cannot really monitor what their members are uploading to their servers for privacy reasons and they are actually against piracy. In fact, an author friend of mine recently requested the removal of her pirated book and it was removed within hours along with an apology. Then there are underground social network and information exchange system sites. The real bad pirates. These guys provide links to online storage lockers. They basically move digital contraband, especially software, movies and ebooks.

Piracy affects every author, and it is a major concern for all publishers, traditional included, as well as their authors whose titles are published in digital format as well.

Here's a snippet from a CNN online article about Dan Brown's The Lost Symbol.

"...On Amazon.com, the book sold more digital copies for the Kindle e-reader in its first few days than hardback editions. This was seen as something of a paradigm shift in the publishing industry, but it also may have come at a cost.

Less than 24 hours after its release, pirated digital copies of the novel were found on file-sharing sites such as Rapidshare and BitTorrent. Within days, it had been downloaded for free more than 100,000 times."

The full article: http://tinyurl.com/27dkc8b

Even the selling of books on eBay is a form of piracy because the author is deprived of the monies derived from those sales.

I strongly encourage readers to buy ebooks from recognized booksellers so that the author’s hard work is rightfully valued, respected and compensated. Most authors, myself included, count on every book sale to pay our bills and live modestly. I also encourage fellow authors to educate people about piracy through their various networks.

C. Robert Cargill , Special to Hollywood.com on Bill 3804:

"...The idea of a free and open internet is important, just as the idea of a free and open country is important. But free and open doesn’t mean free from the rule of law. There is no real freedom when your own property can be subject to theft and dissemination without your consent; there can be no freedom when people have no way of redress against those who knowingly do them wrong. That’s not freedom; that’s anarchy..."

Full article: http://tinyurl.com/6jjdpgm

This passage sums up my feelings about piracy. Feel free to share your comments.

Happy Valentine's!

2011-02-14T10:12:00.000-05:00

I would like to wish you all a warm, sexy and loving Valentine's Day!

Hey...those for me? (Well, a single gal can fantasize, right?)

Grammar for those who give a hoot: The Apostrophe

2011-02-08T15:21:00.000-05:00

Here I go again! Talking about that darn apostrophe. In part one of my grammar post, several weeks ago, I gave simple tips on how to use the apostrophe in words like "it's", "they're" vs. "its" and "their".

Today, I'll talk about the 's and the s' in words like "boys" and "children" as well as the apostrophe in abbreviations and certain expressions. (Hope you're still here.)

Here's a quick quiz to test your basic apostrophe skills:

1.   a. Here are the children's lunchboxes. b. Here are the childrens' lunchboxes.

2.   We have two daughters. a. These are the girls' toys. b. These are the girl's toys.

3.   a. Tess's class begins soon. b. Tess' class begins soon.

4.   a. I listen to 80's music. b. I listen to 80s music. c. I listen to '80s music.

5.   a. The sports league grew in the 1900s. b. The sports league grew in the 1900's.

6.   a. She has five year's experience. b. She has five years' experience.

7.   a. The DVD's are in that aisle.    b. The DVDs are in that aisle.

Answers:

1. A. Children is already plural and therefore requires the basic 's rule to create the possessive.

2. A.   We are referring to a plural noun in which case the apostrophe goes at the end. If the noun were
           singular, we would have to use the basic rule: "girl's".

3. A and B. In this instance where the name ends in S, it is up to you or your publisher's preference.

4. C.   This example is not a possessive case. It is an abbreviation of 1980s. Since part of the year is
         missing, we need to compensate this with an apostrophe. (Think of the common example 'Tis, in
         which the missing words are "It is".)

5. A. Again, not a possessive case and since the year is written in full, it doesn't require any
          apostrophe.

6. B. The sentence refers to five years of experience. We need to compensate the lack of this
          by adding an apostrophe. It goes at the end of the word because it is a plural noun.

7. B. Not possessive. The sentence refers to a plural noun.

Extra: In "for...sake" expressions, the apostrophe follows the final S. Ex: For goodness' sake. For Jesus' sake.

Naturally, there are exceptions to the apostrophe rule, particularly in possessive cases.

Ex: Nouns plural in form, singular in meaning:

politics' true meaning

economics' forerunners

the United States' role in international law

My linguistic source--and bible--is The Chicago Manual of Style.

Thought I'd toss in several real-life apostrophe bloopers for your entertainment.

This appears to be printed on a vehicle.

Psst! Sneak Peek at Primal Passion's Cover

2011-02-04T17:55:00.000-05:00

One of the most exciting and much-anticipated stages for me--and I assume every author--is receiving the book cover. The story I poured lots of loving labor into now has a face, and along with it comes a special sense of fulfillment.

Book two in my debut series isn't out yet, but I couldn't resist "showing off" the cover for Primal Passion. I absolutely love the warm sensuality it oozes and that curly P in the title rocks! A big thank you to Cobblestone artist, Sable Grey!

Unofficial Blurb:

Milan Markovic likes his affairs hot and brief. Spirited Tess Nielsen stirs his most primal instincts, but she suspects his only motive is seduction. It isn’t until Tess is kidnapped that he realizes his feelings for her aren’t limited to physical pleasure. Losing her isn’t an option.

Olivia Starke Visits Today: "I make the decisions for my success"

2011-01-31T01:00:00.071-05:00

I'm excited to have author Olivia Starke here with us today, because not only is she a talented writer of steamy romance, she's got a dose of motivational reinforcement for aspiring and published authors. Also, Olivia gives us a sneak peek at her upcoming smokin' contemporary paranormal, Familiar Desires.

Olivia:

Whether you think you can or can’t… you’re right. Henry Ford

As authors we are in a passionate industry. We live to share our vivid imaginations with others to sweep them into the worlds of our creation. I love this work, I live for it, since I was young I loved to dream up stories to entertain myself through long summer days, or cold winter afternoons. As an only child it was my playmate.

When I struck out into the ePublishing industry I was beyond excited. Here was the chance I’d always wanted, to be a published author. To share and entertain others and make a living at doing what I loved to do. But it wasn’t too long after that I began hearing all the negative speak "Don’t expect to make a living as an author", "Don’t quit your day job", "Don’t expect big things with this", "Don’t…don’t…don’t…"

At first I have to say I was disheartened. Wow, maybe I’m wasting the long hours locked away with my laptop struggling with rewrites and edits. I love writing, but I also want it to be my only full time career. I enjoy my retail management job, but it’s not what I’ve wanted to do since I was a young girl. Maybe I should just quit and concentrate on the corporate world, and leave behind my bohemian imagination.

Then it occurred to me, I make the decisions for my success. I refuse to let others be Debbie Downers in my parade. I and I alone have control of my life. What if Stephen King, Stephenie Meyer, or J.K. Rowling had listened to these "words of wisdom"? If you want to be a success, to live on your talents with words, then do it, it’s that simple. Ignore others who roll their eyes, or want to remind you how authors are a dime a dozen, etc etc etc. Learn the publishing (or ePublishing) industry, get your name out there, and above all else believe in yourself.

Now I’m not saying go out and quit your day job today. I haven’t yet, but don’t give up on your future author career. Know that it’s coming, have faith in yourself, and watch your success unfold. J

1NightStand: Familiar Desires (coming soon to Decadent Publishing)

Blurb: Ashley Adams is tired of being called Mom by her twenty-something year old coworkers so she decides to join a dating site headed by Madame Evangeline. When she is paired with a hot twenty-six year old named Justin, sparks fly as soon as they step into the elevator of the posh hotel.

There is something magical in the chemistry between the two of them, but there is something more to their physical union. A secret that Justin must wait for Ashley to discover for herself.

More about the 1NightStand series:
http://decadent1nightstand.blogspot.com/

Check out Olivia Starke here:
www.authorOliviaStarke.com
http://RomancingThePenToday.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/oliviastarke

Treat for My Readers: Book Giveaway and More!

2011-01-26T12:40:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone!

Have you purchased The Unnecessary Bodyguard? First off, thank you! I hope you really enjoyed it. Next, I have a treat for you...

I'll be giving away a copy of book two--Primal Passion--in the Dhampir Desire series to FIVE lucky winners as a reader appreciation prize. This book features Jovan's ultra-alpha brother, Milan, and a beautiful, determined crime reporter. The contest will be in the form of a draw and will take place in March this year. Entries must be sent to me by March 15th, 2011.

To qualify you have to:

Have purchased The Unnecessary Bodyguard. (Contact me here for details: evie@eviebalos.com)

and

Follow my blog. http://eviebalos.blogspot.com/. This is where I'll be making future announcements about more book giveaways and fun events.

* This contest is open to anyone who has purchased my book.

Here's a tantalizing unofficial blurb from Primal Passion:

Crime reporter Tess Nielsen is determined to get an exclusive vampire story, even if it means indulging a certain dhampir agent, whose dangerous sensuality sets her blood on fire. She lands in a bit of vampire trouble, but she can take care of herself, which is why she’s infuriated when the sexy agent intervenes and carries her off to his home.

Milan Markovic likes his affairs hot and brief. Spirited Tess Nielsen stirs his most primal instincts, but she suspects his only motive is seduction. It isn’t until Tess is kidnapped that he realizes his feelings for her aren’t limited to physical pleasure. Losing her isn’t an option.

Drool Factor: The Physical Man

2011-01-21T20:33:00.000-05:00

I dedicated this Drool Factor post to rugged men who work with their bodies because I doubt there's a hot-blooded woman on this planet whose pulse doesn't jump at the mere thought of a shirtless hunk doing physical work. Something about a strong man who's good with his hands, right? Add tanned, rippling, sweat-slickened muscles and....woooh...toss me a fan.

Whether he's a cowboy who wakes up at the crack of dawn to move his livestock, a construction worker who balances on a beam hundreds of feet high, or a mechanic who deftly uses his tools, his raw masculinity is undeniably sexy.

I posted my personal favorite first. This guy screamed outback cowboy the second I saw him. So, what do you think of these guys? And if you've read or written a great story featuring a "physical man", go ahead and post the title and link.

Modern Inventions that Push our Rant Button the Most

2011-01-19T22:54:00.000-05:00

I'm in a cranky mood today. Got my very first driving violation ticket so it's not a good day. And when I'm cranky I think of modern society's worst and/or most annoying inventions. Actually, that's not true because that would make me kinda crazy, but this topic just popped into my head and I refuse to talk about the big fat ticket.

So, the two inventions that make the top of my list are:

1. The automatic flushing toilet. (Which is exactly where I'd like to shove that ticket.)

Reason? Because A. Half the time they flush way too early, so that you're forced to leap clear of the whirl of bacteria-infested water. And B. The other half of the time they don't flush. You can stand there waving your hand around in front of that little red light and nothing. It's not so bad if it's number one...but...

2. The cell phone texting feature.

I find this both disturbing and annoying. I did my share of texting at first, but it quickly lost its appeal. Now I find myself texting mainly because someone's sent me a text in the first place, suggesting that I should respond in the same manner. I'd rather they just called. And do we honestly need this phone feature?? I mean, the cell phone itself is a great convenience especially in emergency situations. But why poke away at those teeny buttons instead of simply saying what we have to say--and more often than not in half the amount of time? It's reduced our communication to voiceless words. Not to mention its role in traffic accidents.

Which modern inventions push your rant button most?

That First Book Contract

2011-01-16T13:00:00.001-05:00

Last night, as I put away the book I'd been reading, my mind drifted to my very first book contract. This was about five years ago, end of autumn, and I was writing under my other pen name then. I'd worked on the story for about six months--a 40K historical romance. I had no critique partner or beta reader to help me out. (Now I can't live without them.)

When I'd polished the story as much as I could, I sent the manuscript to three different publishers, but one in particular was my top choice. The average response time for these pubs was about 2-3 months so imagine my surprise when one of them offered me a contract just two weeks after I'd submitted the story.

I was so excited, despite the fact this pub wasn't my top choice. I had a short amount of time in which to respond. It didn't seem likely I'd hear from the other pubs before that deadline, so I decided it was best to accept the contract. I sat down at the laptop, fingers poised over the keyboard, but something held me back. My gut feeling told me to wait a little longer. So I did, and about one anxious week later came a response from my #1 choice. OMG!

I was stunned and beyond elated once I'd recovered enough to reread the editor's email. It wasn't a contract offer, though. It was a request to revise specific parts of the story and resubmit, which means they liked the story but there were weaknesses that needed fixing. Good news--great news in fact, because this was the first story I'd ever submitted and they were giving me a rare opportunity. I worked on it feverishly for several days, taking heed of the editor's suggestions, and resubmitted. Naturally, I was on pins and needles until the editor got back to me and told me I'd be receiving a contract offer soon.

I'd say my venture into publishing was generally smooth, and although I'd worked my butt off creating that story, I know luck was on my side. For one thing, I'm glad I'd followed my instinct. For another, anyone who's been in this business for a while knows that cirmcumstances like timing play a big role. My story fell into the hands of someone who connected with it and decided to give it--and me--a chance. It could have gone the other way.

Everyone's "first book" moment is memorable. What was yours like?

Grammar for those who give a hoot: Does it Need an Apostrophe?

2011-01-13T09:00:00.072-05:00

                                 "Its amusing to watch the puppy chase it's tail in circles."

We've all seen typos and linguistic mistakes just about everywhere and we've all been guilty of making the latter. I don't care to preach about this at all, (okay, maybe a little) but I've proofread enough material to know that basic mistakes creep into important things such as business emails, websites, letters and manuscripts. I've seen editors reject a manuscript because it was riddled with basic, avoidable errors. So I thought I'd offer a couple of simple grammar tips for one of the most common linguistic mistakes.

There are several uses for the apostrophe, but the most common misuse is when it is confused with the possessive case.

TIP #1: When you insert an apostrophe in a word that contains a pronoun (he, she, it, they...), you've created TWO words. There's a verb in there! So you should read it aloud, in full to see if that's what you really want to write.

Contractions:                                                              Possessive Pronouns:

I'm = I am                                                                     my
you're = you are                                                         your
he's = he is                                                                  his
she's = she is                                                             her
it's = it is                                                                       its
we're = we are                                                            our
they're = they are                                                     their

TIP #2: Question yourself about a pronoun-type word that doesn't contain an apostrophe. If you've just written "your" or "their" stop and ask yourself if it requires a verb. Read what you want to write aloud.

If we use these tips when reading the sample sentence at the top, the mistakes are more obvious. We see that the first "its" is missing a verb, (is) and the second intance doesn't require a verb but a possessive pronoun (its).

Stay tuned for the next grammar tip on apostrophes in words/expressions like "children", "boys", "for goodness sake" and "Strauss".

Good writing!

Lauren Gallagher Visits Today

2011-01-10T22:00:00.012-05:00

Let's give a warm welcome to author, Lauren Gallagher. She joins us here today to talk about BDSM in erotic romance/erotica, with a post that brings to light a certain dark side to this genre. It had me riveted from the first word. If you're into BDSM erotica, you'll enjoy a blurb from Lauren's smokin' new release, Light Switch.

Lauren:

Anyone who’s been by my blog in the last several months may have witnessed my ranting about some pet peeves where BDSM fiction is concerned. This is a hot-button subject for me, so I’m hopping up on my soapbox again.

Before I get started, let me preface this by saying that I tend to refer to dominants as male and submissives as female. This is strictly for brevity and simplicity; obviously the roles can and often are reversed. I’m also oversimplifying a bit and using Dom/Master and submissive/slave interchangeably. There are many differences, but for the purposes of this blog entry, they’re being lumped together.

With that out of the way…

I’m deeply concerned about the prevalence of abusive, criminal behavior in BDSM fiction. It wouldn’t bother me so much if it was committed by antagonists and such, but all too frequently, it’s the protagonist. The hero, for heaven’s sake.

I’m not talking about a hero behaving unsympathetically, then redeeming himself before the book’s end so he and the heroine can live happily ever after. A story wouldn’t be worth reading without conflict, black moments, etc. Characters are imperfect, they make some pretty colossal mistakes, and it’s all good.

Folks, I’m talking about criminal behavior. Abuse. Sexual assault. Rape.

BDSM is supposed to be safe, sane, and consensual. What I’ve been reading…isn’t. I’ve read all too often about things like forcing someone to submit, ignoring safe words, leaving someone alone while bound (highly dangerous), bringing in strangers without the sub’s consent, etc. These are not miscommunications and misunderstandings that can be resolved with a conversation and a hug. We’re talking about huge violations of trust, assuming there was a foundation of trust there to begin with.

(Hint: If the Dom and sub were brought together by way of kidnapping, coercion, or other such circumstances, there is no foundation of trust.)

Also, if the sub tells herself, “Well, he hasn’t actually hurt me, so this is okay and he’s a good man” that is the very definition of Stockholm Syndrome.

No, seriously. From Wikipedia: “Stockholm syndrome is a term used to describe a paradoxical psychological phenomenon wherein hostages express adulation and have positive feelings towards their captors that appear irrational in light of the danger or risk endured by the victims, essentially mistaking a lack of abuse from their captors as an act of kindness.” [emphasis mine.]

Not very romantic, is it?

Here’s the thing about submission: it happens on the submissive’s terms, not the Dom’s. She tells him what she wants, what her limits are, what limits she’s willing to have pushed, etc. All of this happens before he ever lays a hand on her. A safe word is established. She can end things any time she wants without fear of punishment. Trust and communication had better be rock solid.

So, what if the Dom sees a submissive side in someone? What if he gets that vibe off her and wants to help her explore it? Maybe she’s inexperienced, uncertain, even ashamed of her desires, but he senses it, overhears her talking to someone about it, or what have you. One way or another, the Dom knows she is or wants to be a sub.

What should he do?

Well, if he wants to keep my sympathy as a reader (and, if it were real life, his ability to chew food), what he won’t do is take matters into his own hands and make her his submissive. He won’t break her down until it dawns on her that “oh, wow, this really is what I want.” He won’t force her to do his bidding until she submits willingly and enthusiastically. He won’t imprison her and cut her off from the outside world until she falls in Stockholm Syndrome love with him.

So why do so many Doms do those very things in fiction?

As a reader, I find it more than a little unsettling when an erotic romance, BDSM or otherwise, takes a skin-crawling turn into the realms of sexual assault, kidnapping, and Stockholm Syndrome. What bothers me even more is how often this happens. It’s gotten to the point I’m hesitant to pick up any book that’s listed as BDSM because there seems to be an assumption that as long as it’s labeled as BDSM, anything goes. Consent can be assumed. Trust can be earned after the fact. Any sub can, will, and must submit to any Dom, just as any Dom can and will top any sub.

Wrong. Wrong. Wrong.

When it comes to BDSM, trust and consent are even more critical than in vanilla situations. Submission is earned. Domination is a privilege.

Now, I understand that rape fantasies are fairly common. In real life, they can be explored under controlled circumstances with trusted participants, safe words in place, etc. Quite honestly, it shouldn’t be any different in fiction. Without those safeguards in place, things like kidnapping, imprisonment, and rape are crimes, people. That, and I have yet to see any of these actions acknowledged as rape or any other criminal act. Because she secretly likes it, or he “knows she really wants it, she just doesn’t know it yet” (if that line doesn’t make your skin crawl, I don’t know what will), it’s okay. Because it’s BDSM, lines can be crossed, blurred, and ignored altogether.

Not. True.

I’m willing to suspend my belief for a lot of things, but when it comes to consensual sex? No. Not a chance. Some things are simply non-negotiable.

If a Dom tells a sub she will have sex with him “or else…” that’s coercion.

If a sub thinks quietly to herself that she really does like it, even though she’s fought him, told him “no” or otherwise made it clear she’s resisting, that’s rape.

If the sub is, at any point, genuinely afraid of the Dom, and he doesn’t stop everything at once (whether because he’s picked up on it, she’s used a safe word, or she’s otherwise made it clear she’s scared or upset) until he’s certain she’s okay, that Dom has lost all sympathy from me as a reader.

If the Dom even tries to dominate a sub without first establishing safe words, trust, and boundaries, he is a clueless brute whose rear end needs to get intimately acquainted with my steel-toed boot.

In closing, this is a trend of rape masquerading as BDSM that bothers me both as a reader and a writer. I believe it promotes a dangerous misunderstanding of what BDSM is all about. And yes, as a writer, I will absolutely put my money where my mouth is. In fact, this is the part where I get to shamelessly promote my attempts to bring some safe, sane, and consensual fun into the BDSM genre.

The Carnal Passions imprint of Champagne Books released my first BDSM novel, a ménage romance called Light Switch, in early January. Written with the input of an experienced Dom and sub, Light Switch is the story of one woman’s exploration into the world of BDSM.

Blurb:

After far too much lackluster sex with her now-ex-boyfriend, Kristen Locke isn’t just ready to try something new, she’s ready to try everything. And as luck would have it, two of her good friends are more than willing to introduce her to the kinkier side of life: Experienced dominant Scott Moore wants to bring out the submissive in her. Neighbor and voyeur Matt Sommers quite literally sees the exhibitionist in her.

Little by little, they open up a whole new world to her, and Kristen’s about to learn that love can be found in the most unusual places…

In March, Reconstructing Meredith, will be also released by Carnal Passions. The sequel to Light Switch, this is a much, much darker book that explores the aftermath of a submissive who’s been abused at the hands of a Dom with a vicious cruel streak. For those who prefer male/male, keep an eye out for Out of Focus, an all-male BDSM ménage coming from Samhain Publishing next summer under my other pseudonym, L. A. Witt.

And finally, if anyone has any recommendations for safe, sane, and consensual BDSM fiction, please do let me know – I’m looking for some books to read myself, and I’d also love to get a list going on my blog or website. Comment here, shoot me an e-mail, send me a tweet, but give me a holler!

Lori Witt
(aka Lauren Gallagher & L. A. Witt)

Twitter: http://www.loriawitt.com/
Website: http://twitter.com/GallagherWitt
Blog: http://navywifeadventures.blogspot.com/
E-mail: thethinker42@gmail.com

And the Winner of the Drool Factor Competition is...

2011-01-07T13:25:00.000-05:00

Ladies, the votes have been tallied! Seems many of you share the same taste in men ;-) Hmm...anyone care to share? Didn't think so. Snatching the The Drool Factor Upper Body Award with a landslide win is...

Drool Factor Hunk number 7! Here you go you scrumptious thing...well-deserved. Stay tuned for a couple of mouth-watering outback hunks in the next DF post. Now you'll all have to excuse me while I mop up in here.

2011 Drool Factor Competition

2011-01-04T18:48:00.002-05:00

What better way to kick off my 2011 blog posts than with delicious pics of semi-naked men? These bods are contenders for the special Drool Factor Upper Body Award. You'll notice I've cropped their handsome faces and legs. That's because I'd like you to focus on their chests and abs so you can choose the upper body that revs your engine the most. ;-) Include the number of the pic when leaving your comment. Detailed responses are encouraged--and these guys are begging for your vote! I'm awfully curious to see the results and I'll post the bod that got the most votes by the end of the week.

1. Nice 'n beefy

2. The graceful swimmer

3. Ripped

4. Serious six pack

5. Dusting of hair

6. Chiseled and slim

7. Nice 'n lean

Happy New Year!!

2010-12-30T13:14:00.000-05:00

2011 already? It seems not long ago that we rolled into 2000, mostly likely the dawn of a new year that produced the most anxiety and excitement in history. More than a decade has passed since then. I can't help but wonder about all the things I accomplished during this time. Including the things I haven't. I frown as I write this because there's no solid excuse for not meeting those goals and not pursuing certain interests.

Which brings me to a subject that inevitably springs up at the end of every year for many of us. I've been thinking about my new year's resolutions for the past week. I figure if I write them down here, in this public place, then I'll be more compelled to commit to them, or at the very least, refer to them regularly as a reminder. Feel free to share this humbling act with me by listing your resolutions, too.

My 8 New Year's Resolutions for 2011

1. Stick to my nicely organized personal routine, from which I've deviated countless times.

2. Swear less in general, particularly when driving.

3. Cut my chocolate consumption in half. (This one's harder than #2.)

4. Write an outline for the two non-fiction stories that have taken a sad spot on the back burner.

5. Become an active member of a women's charity.

6. Clean out and organize my desk drawers.

7. Curb my sarcasm by about 30%.

8. Do the wonderful, insane little things I've never dared to do. Well, I actually can't pull this off in a single year, so I'll start with two.

I wish us all a very happy New Year's celebration and a beautiful, healthy and peaceful 2011!

Dhampir Desire, Book Two Contracted

2010-12-29T13:32:00.001-05:00

It's official. I signed the contract for book two in the Dhampir Desire series with Cobblestone Press yesterday. Squee! That means another dhampir hottie is definitely coming your way! And look out folks--there's so much virile alphaness in this guy, he's practically bursting out of his clothes. Don't worry...I didn't pair him up with a meek female. Nope--hardly do that anyway--she's one wilful, bold journalist who will go to just about any length to get her dhampir story.

Look out for unedited blurbs and other such tantalizing snippets posted here in the very near future. ;-)

Miz Love Loves Books and The Unnecessary Bodyguard

2010-12-27T20:51:00.000-05:00

When Natalie Dae informed me that a review has been posted for The Unnecessary Bodyguard at Miz Love Loves Books, I wasn't expecting a 5 out of 5 rating. Wow. I mean, I love my story, worked my butt off creating it, but that's a perfect score we're talking about! My mouth dropped open and then it stretched into a grin. They've named the review ratings, which I find pretty neat. Mine's an "Almost Undressed" rating. Luv it.

Miz Management says: "If vampires and dhamphirs do it for you, get yourself over to Cobblestone Press and purchase a copy. Jovan is—sigh—gorgeous." To read the whole review click here.

Quotes of Christmas and Love

2010-12-23T00:08:00.000-05:00

Christmas is my favorite religious holiday. It might mean slightly different things to different people, but to me, it represents Christ's birth, his passion, and love. I read a touching Christmas quote in the local paper the other day, which inspired me to find several other Christmas-themed quotes and quotes about love for today's post. I couldn't resist throwing in a few humorous ones. ;-)

Feel free to post your own. I wish all my blogger friends, readers, and fellow authors a wonderful and safe Christmas.

"Christmas, my child, is love in action." ~ Dale Evans

"For the spirit of Christmas fulfils the greatest hunger of mankind." ~ Loring A. Schuler

"Love doesn't make the world go 'round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile." ~ Franklin P. Jones

"I stopped believing in Santa Claus when I was six. Mother took me to see him in a department store and he asked for my autograph." ~ Shirley Temple

“Christmas is a time when everybody wants his past forgotten and his present remembered. What I don't like about office Christmas parties is looking for a job the next day." ~ Phyllis Diller

"Love is a fruit in season at all times, and within reach of every hand." ~ Mother Theresa.

"Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas." ~ Calvin Coolidge

"Anyone who believes that men are the equal of women has never seen a man trying to wrap a Christmas present." ~ Anonymous

"There is no remedy for love but to love more." ~ Henry David Thoreau

At Christmas I no more desire a rose

Than wish a snow in May's new-fangled shows,

But like of each thing that in season grows.

~ William Shakespeare

My Very Own Versatile Blogger Award

2010-12-20T11:33:00.000-05:00

I'm thrilled and honored to receive this lovely award by the talented Lex Valentine, who truly is a versatile blogger in her own right. Lex's blog always has something engaging in store. Visit Sunlight Sucks today!

My blog is pretty new, but it's a lot like home, where I can put my feet up, have a cup of coffee, and enjoy rambling about all manner of things, without getting into too much trouble. ;-)

By Versatile Blogger Award tradition, here's my list of seven facts about me:

1. I love adrenaline-filled activities, like jet-boating, rafting, sailing, and go-karting.

2. I'm a super-romantic, almost to the point of cheesiness.

3. If I could live on Parisian croissants, I would.

4. Cats are my favorite animals. Dangerous, domestic--love 'em all.

5. I'm a contrast of personalities; like a sweet little kitten and a tiger rolled into one.

6. I listen to jazz and classical when I write.

7. I have a serious thing (like, almost clinical) for guys with dirty blond hair.

I'd like to pass this award to the following bloggers, whose blogs I enjoy:

Julia Rachel Barrett

Three Wicked Writers

Lindsay Townsend

Tonya Renee Callihan is Here Today!

2010-12-17T00:00:00.014-05:00

Let’s welcome debut author Tonya Renee Callihan. Tonya’s one of the youngest authors in our industry and she’s a busy bee. Here are a few fun facts about Tonya: She’s studying for a degree in nursing; she reviews for The Long and Short of it, Whipped Cream Reviews, You Gotta Read, Siren Reviews, Rites of Romance and Fresh Fiction. Now that’s some serious reading! Tonya’s upcoming book, Night Promises, will be released next month with Secret Cravings Publishing.

Hi Evie and thanks for having me on your blog today--been looking forward to it. I am super excited. I have several things to share with your readers. I want to start by sharing one of my favorite Christmas traditions.

A Cowboy’s Christmas Wish by Tonya Renee Callihan

Free Read offered by Secret Cravings Publishing http://secretcravingspublishing.com/TonyaReneeCallihanFreeRead.html

Payton Williams ran from her ex and a life of abuse, her entire existence has come down to her running from every fear. Now that she has finally settled in the dreamy hills of Montana, she no longer wants to run, even when cowboy Derek pushes boundaries that haven't been pushed in a long time. She's prepared to stay and fight for the only home she's ever had...even if that means she's only fighting against what her heart and her head are saying.

Derek Green is a true cowboy, heart and soul, born and raised on a ranch in Montana by his grandparents. After his grandfather passed away, he took over "Greene Stables". The only thing missing is a woman to love and kids running around the yard. At thirty-five he's more than ready to settle down.

After a defining moment in Derek’s kitchen, can Payton finally drop her guard and allow herself to embrace the feelings for Derek she's been fighting against for months? Can Derek convince her that she is the only woman he'll ever love?

For each download of this free read, Secret Cravings Publishing is donating $1 to the charity of my choice in my name. My publisher is also offering an awesome contest for any reader who pre-orders a copy of my book, “Night Promises” or any book from the site. Go here for more info about their contest: http://secretcravingspublishing.com/Contests.html

Coming January 5, 2011

Night Promises - Night Pleasures 1
Erotic Contemporary, Paranormal, Vampires (4 flames)
Approximate word count: 11,802

Blurb:

Kelly O’Keefe first met a vampire when she was twelve. Now the pair are best friends and have opened Night Pleasures, an underground club that caters to vampires and their needs. When Kelly’s sister is murdered, she finds herself working with Connor, a vampire she's been in love with for months. Unable to trust men, let alone a vampire, can she let him help her solve her sister’s murder?

Connor has been watching after Kelly for seven months with the help of his sire and best friend Micah. Connor has kept himself at a distance even though he knows they are life mates. He's afraid of losing control and turning Kelly against her will. When he learns Kelly plans on investigating her sister’s death, he steps in and allows

A Contest!

I have 14 people who currently like my author Facebook page, see link below. When I have 100 people who like my page I will have a drawing. The winner will win a free download of Night Promises and a gift basket. Hurry! This contest will last until December 31st, and tell your friends. For every friend you recommend, they have to send me an email to tonyacallihan@hotmail.com stating that you were the one to tell them about this contest you will get 2 additional entries into the contest. For every social network you post this contest up on you will receive another entry into the contest. Send me the links so I can see the posts. Also follow my blog and twitter to get 2 more entries.

Author Links

Website: http://www.tonyacallihan.weebly.com/
Blog: http://www.tonyasramblings.blogspot.com/
Facebook Author Fan Page: http://tinyurl.com/34dfz6w
Facebook Night Promises Fan Page: http://tinyurl.com/389e5vl
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/tonyacallihan
Contact: tonyacallihan@hotmail.com

Julia Rachel Barrett is Here!

2010-12-14T04:30:00.031-05:00

Let's welcome talented author and blogger extraordinaire, Julia Rachel Barrett. Julia writes erotic science fiction, paranormal, and contemporary romance. She’s here to talk about her new release and the inspiration for this truly touching story. Without further ado…

Come Back To Me…a descent into darkness.

This was not an easy book to write. Come Back To Me didn’t begin as a work for publication; it began as an exercise or rather, an exorcism. I had a few demons buried inside and they needed to see the light of day. I was fascinated by how easily the words flowed from my brain to my fingers to my computer screen. I expected the process to be much more difficult; I assumed I’d have to pry the words out, as the work is more or less autobiographical, but I didn’t.

Once I completed this unusual, emotional memoir, I decided to re-write and edit, make it a bit more commercial. After two re-writes, I sent if off, only to be rejected, twice, by publishers who told me that while they loved the story, readers will not buy a dark tale in dark times. Evernight Publishing picked the book up without hesitation. While Come Back To Me has a happy ending, which is real and true to life, the main theme of the book is personal growth, not a heroic rescue. Where does a woman, abused from childhood, find the strength to stand on her own two feet? How far will she allow herself to be pushed until she fights back for the sake of herself and her unborn child?

You can find Come Back To Me here: http://tinyurl.com/2uyn7zq

Blurb:

Sometimes the safest path is to keep people at a distance…especially men.

Cara’s life has been one nightmare after another. Abused as a child and neglected by her parents, she’s quick to blame herself for every cruel thing that happens to her. And then there’s James, the only man capable of making her forget her misgivings and learn to love again.

James, a young doctor in training, is aware of Cara’s history. He’s determined to break through her barriers and build a life with her…and fails. Cara runs away in an attempt to reinvent herself and James fears he’s lost her for good. When she falls into the hands of a drug dealer and mob boss, life as they know it is about to get a whole lot worse.

Can their love withstand the demons of her past and present?

Read more on my website: http://juliarachelbarrett.net

The Thrill of the First Encounter

2010-12-08T15:17:00.000-05:00

Any romance fan eagerly anticipates the first encounter between the hero and the heroine. That jump in the pulse. That flutter of the heart. The hot rush of awareness. So many ways to describe this encounter, and if done well, the result is downright exciting.

So on this note, I'll post the first encounter from my latest release. I would also love to read your exciting first encounters, so go ahead and post them here. One very short excerpt of one or two paragraphs, please. Include your book link!

Encounter between Nina Bradley and Jovan Markovic from The Unnecessary Bodyguard, Cobblestone Press.

Alarm shot through her. My God. She was being followed. Panic pressed down on her lungs. She wasn’t going to make it to the car in time. Her fingers tightened around her keys as she slowed and turned to face him.

“I’ll scrape your eyes out,” she warned, surprised at how little her voice trembled.

He held up his hands as he stopped a few feet from her. “I won’t hurt you.”

She made a quick assessment of him. No average man, for sure. He was over six feet tall, broad-shouldered and powerfully built. She pictured compact muscles underneath the short leather jacket. As she made eye contact, her breath froze. Unusual dark gray eyes trapped her with their intensity. Her heart skipped. He didn’t look like a vampire, at least, but that didn’t make him less dangerous. In fact, there was a strange air of danger about him. “Why are you following me?”

Book link

The e-book: Not So New

2010-12-03T00:16:00.000-05:00

The commercial circulation of e-books boomed during the 2000’s, particularly with the launching of e-Readers, but how far back do e-books--otherwise known as digital books--go?

The oldest digital library is Project Gutenberg, founded by Michael S. Hart in 1971, who set out to digitize and archive various literary works and make them available to the public. Most of the documents in the library’s archives are full texts of public domain books. “At least one version of each book is a plain text file that can be displayed on virtually any computer. Most of the early postings were typed in by Hart himself. Today, the e-texts are produced (usually scanned) by Project Gutenberg's many volunteers.

Project Gutenberg has over 34,000 items in its collection.

Source: Wikipedia; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E-books; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_S._Hart

WIP Update: Final Chapter!

2010-12-01T14:09:00.000-05:00

That's right--I'm on the very last chapter of book two in the Dhampir Desire series. (No title yet--I prefer to come up with titles once I'm done.) The last few pages will unfold in the next three hours or so. Then I'll step away from it for about five days and read it again with, hopefully, rested eyes before sending it off to my critque partner who's already wielding her surgical pen.

Thanksgiving Wishes

2010-11-24T14:57:00.000-05:00

A lovely Thanksgiving to all.

Evie

The Drool Factor

2010-11-18T11:31:00.000-05:00

I’ve decided to post pics of guys I find incredibly hunky at least once a month and I’ll call this post The Drool Factor, because frankly, they’re mouth-wateringly scrumptious and a rare sight in the real world. *sigh* Plus, they could be a source of writing inspiration or some other type of much-needed inspiration.

Reactions, involuntary or otherwise, can be recorded in the comments section. Please don’t drool on my blog though...I try to keep it clean in here.

Rebecca Goings: Finding Time to Write

2010-11-15T01:00:00.079-05:00

I am thrilled to welcome multi-published and prolific romance author, Rebecca Goings today! Rebecca has penned many books across the board of subgenres, including westerns and notably her paranormal series Beast, and The Desert Princes of Jikkar, a new fantasy series.

How does this author—a mom of five with a pile of daily chores—find time to write? I’m all ears!

Rebecca Goings:

How do you find the time to write?

I hear this question all the time from readers, fellow writers, as well as friends and family. I’m a stay-at-home mom with five kids, and I also homeschool them. I run errands, pay bills, do laundry, make dinner, and somewhere in that chaos, I’ve found the time to pen over 30 books.

Well, for me, I find the time through two different things. The first thing; scheduling. Before the day starts, I have about two hours of my own time. DH has to leave for work early, and the baby wakes early, so I can check email, write, or promote before I start my day.

I like to have the house clean before we do schooltime, so we do chores after breakfast. I have morning chores and evening chores. Morning chores includes vacuuming, dishes, mopping, starting laundry. My children are old enough (11, 10, 9, 7 & 22mos.) to do the lion’s share of the chores. (Well, maybe not the baby—but she does clean up her toys and puts them in her box.) In fact, all I do is my own laundry, I clean the kitchen, and maybe mop. I do things the kids can’t do well, like vacuum the edges of the carpets. But with them doing basic chores, it takes a big load off of me, as well as giving my kids a responsibility to learn how to clean their own houses when they’re adults.

After chores, we do school, until about 3pm. When that is finished, I have another two-hour window to write/promote/fool around before my evening chores of putting away the laundry, ironing, and starting dinner begin.

So in my busy day, I can squeeze out at least 4 hours of writing/promo time.

Now, on days I have to go shopping or to the doctor or any other errand or special chore like doing bills, I obviously cannot write in those windows. And that makes me cranky. Sometimes I’m distracted by kids and/or drawn to do other things like painting my nails, read, or some other form of procrastination.

But if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years--sometimes, you can’t always plan for big chunks of writing time.

The second thing; write what you can when you can. It’s all well and good to put a schedule in your calendar, but we all know how fickle “Real Life” can be. Therefore, I have had to come to peace with the fact that sometimes, I have to write my books one paragraph at a time. Perhaps even one sentence at a time.

With young kids and chores that must be done every day, it’s not always realistic to close off the world and write for two solid hours. Some days, all is well in the universe, and this can be done. Other days, chaos reigns. Holding out hope for the huge chunk of writing time where I can just zone and float away into my book is a myth that defeats a lot of newbie authors.

Unless you have no kids, no husband, and no distractions, it is nearly impossible to write for hours on end, or heck, for even ONE hour. And I don’t even have a job outside the home!

Another thing I do that I know a lot of other writers aren’t always keen on doing – I don’t have “days off” from being an author. All my free time is pretty much in front of my computer, because that’s what I enjoy doing. Are hubby’s friends over to play cards for the evening? GREAT! I’m writing! Is dinner in the oven for forty-five minutes? GREAT! I’m writing! Hubby’s working late and the kids are watching a movie. GREAT! I’m writing!

In the end, it all boils down to what works for you. But my advice to you is this. Find the time in your day when you can write. Then write what you can when you can. Writing a paragraph at a time is at least going in the right direction, and in time, you’ll finally have a book behind you. I’ve written many novels this way. And amazingly, the disjointed paragraphs and piecemeal scenes somehow coalesce together to make some darn good stories.

(If I do say so myself!)

~~Becka

You can find Rebecca here:

http://www.rebeccagoings.com/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/themagicofromance
http://www.twitter.com/rebeccagoings
http://www.facebook.com/rebecca.goings

Fiddling With Fonts

2010-11-14T00:10:00.000-05:00

You've probably noticed that my blog is a melange of different fonts. I'm not trying to annoy anyone--just want to find a nice font to use all the time. The Times is too small and if I choose large type it's too big. And I'm not crazy about the other options, so I'm searching to see if there's a way to import fonts.

Bear with me in the meantime!

Things that Make you Go ARGHRR #%$*# !!

2010-11-10T18:15:00.003-05:00

I don’t get pulled over by police for speeding violations or things like that. Nope, my record’s virtually spotless. But I get parking tickets. I’ve got a fresh one sitting in my bag right now, burning an $85 hole in the fine Italian leather. All because I was brainless and stubborn enough to drive downtown for an appointment—the location of all of my parking violations. I kinda deserved it. I’d declined my sister’s offer for a lift because I thought it was out of her way, and I chose the comfort of my car over the subway.

I’ve lived in Montreal most of my life so I’m familiar with the frustrating and almost chaotic parking situation downtown. There are few things I’m cheap about, and paying big bucks for parking is one of those things. So I generally avoid the private lots and look for a meter spot. Anyhow, I found a spot about forty minutes into dodging cars and pedestrians. Only this one had no meter, which is unusual downtown. There was a sign of course, but I couldn’t read it because it was covered in leaves from a tree sticking out of the cement on the sidewalk. Jeez.

So I chanced it, despite the niggling apprehension, and I was awarded with that hateful long red and white strip of paper tucked neatly under my wiper. According to the ticket, I’d parked in a time-restricted bus zone.

I think, though, after paying about ten of these over the years, I’ve finally learned my lesson. Actually, I wouldn’t mind being pulled over by a cutie in blue for a change. At least I’d have a chance of talking my way out of that one.

Author Eve Langlais is Here!

2010-11-08T23:00:00.019-05:00

Let's welcome erotic romance author, Eve Langlais! Thanks so much for dropping by, Eve.

EB: You’re a busy lady: a mother to three children, a wife, a part-time webmistress and, of course, an author. What’s a typical day in the life of Eve Langlais?

EL: A typical day for me starts at 5:30 am and doesn’t start winding down until dinnertime. I guess the best word to describe it would be busy, sometimes insanely so lol. But, I thrive under pressure.

EB: When did you realize that writing erotic romance is your calling?

EL: My first few books, I was super careful about being too explicit when it came to sex scenes. But when I realized there was a niche for the naughty words, I dove into erotic writing with enthusiasm. I enjoy the juicy details from when couples get intimate and I like the tingles a great description can evoke.

EB: I was reserved at first too, but I can never go back to writing anything remotely like purple prose. Do you ever write through the night? I admit I’ve done it a few times, but I’m like a zombie the next day, lol.

EL: Nope. I write mostly in the morning and early afternoon. Only with Lucifer’s Daughter did I write for a few hours in the evening. That story drove me like a slave, but the result was worth it.

EB: I see you like alpha heroes, like I do. Often, these heroes come with a bad boy attitude. Which one of your heroes would you say is the biggest bad boy?

EL: LOL, that’s hard to say. Thinking back over them, I’m stuck between two—Auric from Lucifer’s Daughter and Ryker from Wickedest Witch. Both are larger than life, alpha males and their bad boy attitudes were what made them so hot, for me at least. Ryker especially was irreverent and said some of the bawdiest things.

EB: Ooh, I’d love Ryker 'cause I could be saucy. How much of your personality filters into your characters?

EL: Well, a lot of my heroines tend to be sarcastic and I’ll raise my hand to that one. I have a twisted sense of humor and sarcasm comes naturally to me. When it comes to bravery though, I’m sitting down. I’m a total scaredy cat—you should see me scream when I see spiders. I try to offer up a wide gamut of heroines from ass kicking to timid. But even my timid lasses end up with a point in the story where they have to suck it up and be brave.

EB: Spiders creep me out too. Tell us about your latest release and include a blurb if you like.

EL: Wickedest Witch is my newest release about a bad girl getting what she deserves—an alpha of her own. Here’s the blurb:

Thank you for engaging the services of Wicked Incorporated where the insults are given for free.

Evangaline is not a very nice witch, but ask her if she cares. She does however have a healthy sexual appetite, and when an uncouth shifter starts appearing in her fantasies, it's not long before she makes her erotic mind play a reality. But everyone knows a wicked witch can't fall in love, or can she?

Ryker, a hot and muscled shifter, knows his size and domineering presence intimidates women, all except for one curvy witch he just can't get out of his mind. Set to a task only the two of them can accomplish, he discovers wickedness has its uses, especially in the bedroom.

Dealing with vamps, a wedding from hell and a cackling gnome named Rumpelstiltskin, will these two wicked beings survive and, even more disturbing, decide to stay together?

EB: They’re a fiery match and I love the opening line. Does your hubby read your stories? And what does he think of them?

EL: I let him only read some of them like The Hunter, Crazy and Last Minion Standing. Others, I just give him barebones because, well, they’re awfully naughty and I don’t want to give him ideas ;)

EB: Lol...don’t blame you. I “hide” some of my stories too. Are you working on something now?

EL: I’m always writing. Right now, I’m working on a story with a timid heroine (just like me) who draws the attention of two wolves. But it’s still in the early stages at this point so I can’t say too much, but it’s shaping up to be smoking hot.

EB: I like the timid heroine who quickly discovers the depth of her sexuality. What two zany habits do you have that drive others crazy?

EL: One of my quirks is I can’t be late. I would rather get there super early than arrive late or on the nose. My hubby hates it when we get somewhere and have to wait. My second habit that again drives hubby mad, is I recycle quickly. If he doesn’t read the local paper and flyers promptly, they’re gone into the blue bin. Hehehe.

EB: Oh, I can relate to your DH about the recycling because I like to read papers at my leisure. I’ve presently got a stack of them in a file tray on my desk.

Choose the one item from each pair that you prefer most. Include a comment if you like:

Wine or beer? Neither. I`m a water-aholic.
Pumps or flats? Flats!
Island resort or camping? Resort—I hate bugs.
City or country? Country. I can’t stand crowds.
007: Sean Connery or Roger Moore? Sean Connery, yum.
Men: dark-haired or blond? Dark haired just because.
Foot massage or back massage? Hair brushed. I have long hair and love having it brushed.
Fantasy: Seduced by a Highland warrior or a shape-shifting panther? Panther—oh yeah.

EL: Thanks for the interview Evie. For more info on me and peeks at some truly smoking covers, come visit me at http://www.evelanglais.com

EB: I’m intrigued by your wicked, sassy witch heroines so I’m looking forward to reading their stories. Thanks for gabbing with me, Eve. I wish you continued inspiration.

Check out Wickedest Witch right here.

Blogapalooza Contest!

2010-11-04T09:36:00.000-04:00

It's Blogapalooza!

A chance for you to meet some exciting authors and aspiring authors AND score some exciting prizes. All you have to do is read my post, and then visit the 7 bloggers below and read their entries, and try to find the common phrase used in all eight. NOTE: It WILL be a phrase, so single words like "the" or "and" don't count! Once you think you have it, email it to mikewood_3@yahoo.com and you will be put into the running for a great gift "basket" comprised of prizes personally selected by the eight bloggers. A random drawing from all correct entries will be conducted one week from today, with special preference given to those who choose to follow all eight of us!"

So read my post below, then search the following blogs for the common phrase:

http://meganbostic.blogspot.com/

http://lynneawest.blogspot.com/

http://thejourneytowardpublication.blogspot.com/

http://mikesshot.blogspot.com/

http://chrisbwritin.blogspot.com

http://joannastjames.blogspot.com/

http://www.badboyscanbefun.com/blog/

Here’s a snippet from a story I wrote several years ago:

Mason had been training rookie detectives for six years and he liked the job. When Captain McCarty had informed him that he’d be training the DA’s daughter in his homicide unit, he was more than happy to be her mentor. Not only had she proven her mettle and shown keen investigative skills in Narcotics, she was gorgeous.

When she’d first joined the force, he’d assumed that she would expect special treatment because of her high-ranking daddy. Not that he would have offered her any. He was surprised to discover that she went out of her way to detach herself from her father’s title. She was a tough little thing that probably weighed no more than a hundred and twenty five.

He looked up at the sound of light rapping on his door. And here she was, in her fitted, dark blue uniform that hugged her lean curves. He enjoyed working with Kate, just didn’t like the effect she had on him, which almost always involved his groin.

He nodded. “Come in, Kate.” He quickly turned to the white board on the wall behind his desk, where he’d scribbled every piece of significant evidence and information about a new homicide case they were working on.

“Let’s go over this stuff again.”

“Sure, Sergeant.”

“We’ve got three victims, all killed in a different way. Two common links...” He circled the name of a town on the outskirts of New York City and the age of the victims: twenty-six.

“We haven’t ruled out that the cases could be unrelated, committed by different perpetrators,” she said.

“That’s what we need to figure out.”

She shook her head and chewed her full bottom lip. “There’s no real MO. If it’s one killer, there’s no rhyme or reason to his killings. Stabbing, strangling, shooting.”

Mason stared at her delectable mouth a second too long. He cleared his throat. “That in itself is an MO, Detective, even though it’s lousy for us.” He tore his gaze away from her and pointed to the board. “What are the chances that all three victims are twenty-six? See, the pattern isn’t in the method of killing, but the victims themselves. Same region, same age.”

“One thing we can rule out is the fact that he’s not targeting women only.”

“Good point. What do suggest we do next?”

“Well, since forensics didn’t bring back any trace evidence, we can only go by what we have.” She met his gaze. “I think we should take a drive down to the crime scenes to check out the buildings—see if there are any similarities there.”

Mason’s mouth curved into a smile. For the first time in his career, he was glad that a case wasn’t easy. It meant he’d be spending more time with Kate.

Christine Bell is Here Today!

2010-11-01T22:30:00.000-04:00

Let's welcome erotic romance author Christine Bell! Thanks for dropping by, Christine.

EB: In a few words, who is Christine Bell?

CB: Wife, mom, stepmom, daughter, sister, writer, poker player. I try to make sure that I am always in the moment. I am not a multi-tasker. If I’m writing, I am focused 100%. No TV, no music. Just my story. If I’m playing dodge ball with the kids, or spending quality time with my husband, I immerse myself in that, and try to suck every ounce of joy from it.

EB: I tend to be focused too. There’s a special time for everything. Did you begin writing as a hobby or did you jump into publishing directly?

CB: I always wrote, since I was really young. Probably because I loved to read so much. I was an English major in college and wrote for the newspaper and for our school’s creative writing anthology, but I only started writing fiction novels about ten months ago. It’s been kind of a whirlwind because I collected a lot of rejections early on, then really focused on learning everything I could about the craft. Once I sold my first manuscript and figured out what I needed to do, things kind of took off from there and I was able to get another half dozen contracts in a very short period of time.

EB: Your writing career has certainly taken off well! Tell us about your latest book and include a blurb if you like.

CB: My latest book is titled Awakening and it’s book #2 in The Wolves of Pray series. I love this book (and this cover, can you say hunk?) so much. It’s about finding love again when you thought you never could. Here’s a little more about it:

Sean Mulaney has had a hell of a year. His beloved mate Sara is dead and the trail to her killer has grown cold. Eaten up by grief and guilt, it is an effort for him just to get through the day. Now, after almost a year in mourning, his animal instincts have reawakened. As Sean struggles to control the need clawing at him, along comes sexy and outspoken Chandra, and his instincts kick into over-drive.

Disillusioned but resolute, Chandra has finally summoned the courage to leave her morally corrupt wolf-pack and join the Wolves of Pray, Montana. Her new pack is a perfect fit, and life would be grand if only Sean Mulaney wasn’t such a distraction. When the tension between them really heats up, Sean proposes a unique solution to the problem. Chandra is torn. She wants to be more than just a “friend with benefits”, but if she refuses Sean’s offer, she might blow her one chance to convince him that she can rock his world and fill the empty space in his heart.

As the sexual tension between them crackles, they each need to make a choice. Is Chandra willing to risk, not only her heart, but her newfound comfort and security within the pack on a long shot like Sean? And will Sean let love in, only to risk having it taken away again? Especially when he knows there is still a killer on the loose.

EB: Yes, the guy on the cover is very hunky! I’m a sucker for slightly tortured, vulnerable heroes with a primal nature. You mention on your Twitter page that you're an aspiring Gryffindor. Tell us about this.

CB: I am a HUGE Harry Potter fan, so that’s just wishful thinking. We are, however, going to the Harry Potter theme park in Universal studios in January and I can’t wait!

EB: Now that’s something to look forward to! You have to tell me all about it when you return. What items do you absolutely need nearby when you're writing?

CB: Well, I don’t write at a desk. I write in a recliner, and more often, in bed around midnight. So I have this big weird pillow that I kind of sit up on that I couldn’t do without. I also always have a bottle of water nearby (and coffee too, unless it’s right before bed time).

EB: Now a fun question: What is your biggest guilty pleasure--one you can't do without?

CB: Oooh, it’s a toss up, I think, because I love chocolate, but I’m going to have to go with bad music. I have a weakness for cheesy 80’s music (like AHA! And Duran Duran), bad hip hop music (songs like “My Humps” and “Milkshake” come to mind) and corny 50’s doo-wop music (like “Duke of Earl” and “My Boyfriend’s Back).

Whenever I’m cleaning my house you can be sure to hear me singing along!

EB: I grew up on 80’s music. I loved just about all the Duran Duran songs—especially “Hungry Like the Wolf”. ;-) And I'm pretty sure I remember the lyrics to “My Boyfriend’s Back”, lol. Thanks for chatting, Christine. I wish you continued success with your writing.

Christine's website: http://www.christine-bell.com/index.php

Buy Awakening here: http://www.cobblestone-press.com/catalog/books/pray-awakening.htm

Tonya Callihan Interviews Me!

2010-10-27T18:34:00.004-04:00

Tonya was one of the winners in a contest I ran that gives a reader the opportunity to interview an author in my group. In this case, one of the authors was yours truly. So Tonya and I sat down for a lovely tete a tete.

TC: Hi Evie, and thanks for this great opportunity to interview you. First, could you tell us about your latest release The Unnecessary Bodyguard?

EB: I’m honored to be interviewed by you because not only are you a book reviewer but a soon-to-be published writer. The Unnecessary Bodyguard is book one in my Dhampir Desire series. It’s an erotic paranormal set in modern day Chicago. The hero, Jovan Markovic, is one of my favorite types of heroes: alpha, slightly tortured, and rugged. Jovan owns a security company and works as an agent in an organization that monitors hostile vampire activity. If a hostile vampire is apprehended, he or she is sent to rehab to undergo genetic alteration, to eliminate the need for human blood. Difficult vampires are killed. So, there’s a dark side to Jovan’s world that most humans can’t relate to, which is why he avoids relationships with humans.

The heroine, Nina Bradley, is an independent, sensible woman who’s happy with her uncomplicated life. When her friend assigns a bodyguard to protect her against a possible vampire attack, she’s peeved. She doesn’t need this hunky Markovic guy following her every move. He’s a dhampir to boot, so she really has to stop fantasizing about him. Problem is, he’s determined to carry out his assignment.

TC: This is book one in your Dhampir Desire series. For those who don't know, what is a dhampir?

EB: Dhampirs exist in Balkan folklore. They are half-vampire, half-human beings who are adept at hunting vampires. Accounts and descriptions of dhampirs vary from culture to culture. I sifted through the information and kept what worked for me.

TC: How did you come up with the idea for this series?

EB: I write primarily paranormal stories, and I wanted to write something with a vampire theme, but not a vampire hero because the market's saturated with that. I didn’t know dhampirs existed in folklore until I stumbled upon an online article. The idea of the dhampir hero and the general plot instantly took shape in my mind. At first, I aimed for a single title, but as I recognized the full potential of the story, I gave Jovan two brothers.

TC: What part of Canada are you from? What's it like? I've never been to Canada before--it's a destination on my wish list though.

EB: Montreal. Born and raised. They call this city the mini Paris of North America because we’ve got the largest French-speaking population outside of France. Geographically, it’s an island, surrounded by two rivers. Physically, it’s lovely. We’ve got three-hundred-year-old buildings--lots of Renaissance and Gothic--in the downtown area and a mountain almost smack in the middle with two amazing views of the city. There’s a distinctive European vibe that everyone’s proud of and the city’s alive with cultural events.

TC: Where do you see your writing in five years?

EB: If my hard work pays off, I see myself published in print and digital. But not too multi-published—I’d prefer to be happy with and loyal to two or three publishers.

TC: What's next for Evie Balos?

EB: Well, currently I’m writing book two in the Dhampir Desire series. It’s the story of Milan Markovic, a carefree bad boy who meets his match in a sassy heroine. I’ve been hankering to write some erotica so I think that will follow.

TC: How can readers contact you?

EB: They can contact me directly here: evie@eviebalos.com.

TC: Anything important or special you would like to add?

EB: I’ve got fun events and a great Reader Appreciation Contest in my yahoo group. Three winners will walk away with a $15 Amazon gift certificate and three free ebooks, including a copy of The Unnecessary Bodyguard. This is great for natural chatterboxes (like you!) who participate in the group activities. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/eviebalos/

TC: I also want to point out that Evie Balos will be a guest on my blog October 29 http://www.tonyasramblings.blogspot.com.

EB: It was a pleasure, Tonya. Wishing you the best with your debut release!

The Muse Can Hit Anytime So Be Prepared!

2010-10-26T00:21:00.000-04:00

I was working out at the gym today, listening to some pop tunes on my iPod, but my mind kept drifting to a complex scene in the story I'm writing. I'd worked on it in the morning...it was good, but I wasn't totally satisfied with it. Which is cool. It happens. I never get stuck on scenes though--I leave them be and come back to them when I know exactly how to work them out.

So in between one of my weight reps, a lightbulb flashed in my head and the whole scene unraveled right there and then. The perfect angle, the perfect words--the perfect delivery! I drop the weights and head straight for the locker room and my gym bag. I rummage around in the bag for a pen--which I find--and my little notebook--which I don't find. I know it's gotta be in there somewhere so I check all the compartments twice but then I recall that I'd moved it to my handbag a few days ago. Perfect. I start reciting the scene verbatim under my breath. There's no %#*$ way I'm forgetting this! It isn't just a couple of words. It's four sentences.

The workout area is packed with people, but there isn't one soul in the locker room to rip out a teeny paper from their agenda or something. The reception crosses my mind, but it's too busy. I walk around looking for paper hand towels, but they've replaced those with hand dryers. I know some of you are snickering because you know what the only solution is. I march into one of the bathroom stalls and yank out a long piece of toilet paper, long enough to fold. I go back into the locker room area so I can use the sink counters to write on. Several women walk into the room while I'm scribbling on the toilet paper and I know they're staring but I don't really care. I've got my scene down exactly the way it played out in my mind.

My muse has hit at other odd times too, like at 3am. or while I'm driving. Haven't gotten a speeding ticket yet! A fellow author told me it happened during sex. Her DH got her a voice recorder for Christmas.

Want to share your weirdest muse moment?

Chatting Live at The Romance Studio with Olivia Starke!

2010-10-18T11:27:00.002-04:00

Come gab with me and author Olivia Starke live at The Romance Studio this Tuesday, October 19th, 9PM EST. In the spirit of Halloween, we'll be talking about our paranormal releases. Any spooky or zany topics you can think of are definitely welcome!

I'll also announce how to enter my TWO big reader appreciation contests. The first includes at least three free ebooks from well-known authors and an Amazon gift certificate.

Check out our books here: http://www.cobblestone-press.com/catalog/author/oliviastarke.htm

And here: http://www.cobblestone-press.com/catalog/books/bodyguard.htm

See you there!

;-)

I've Been Punk'd!

2010-10-08T13:56:00.003-04:00

Okay. I lied about being Punk'd, but I bet that caught your attention, eh? I did, however, get my brains picked about my latest release by three clever and talented authors. I've posted links to the interviews below. Comments on the blogs are welcome! And since Rebecca posted my birthday, I expect gifts from one and all. ;-)

Interviewed by Christine Bell

Interviewed by Rebecca Goings

Interviewed by Eve Langlais

Stowaway Kitten Survives 45 Days in a Cargo Container

2010-10-05T14:37:00.001-04:00

Talk about nine lives! Well, perhaps one less for this kitty. She's a real fighter, though! Stuck in a cargo container en route from China to Canada, she went without food or drink for an incredible 45 days. I know the story's splashed everywhere, but I was so amazed that this little creature made it, I had to blog about it.

The kitten was "severely malnourished and in extreme distress, (when she was) discovered tucked between granite slabs and wood bracing for the entire trip" according to a report in the Examiner.com. She has since been adopted by Calgary resident Angela Izzo and named Mandarin.

Rebecca Goings's Birthday Bash

2010-10-01T12:01:00.005-04:00

This author knows how to party!! Rebecca will be celebrating her birthday October 4 - 8 with dozens of authors and other friends. Everyone's welcome. I've already got my party shoes ready!

For more information, click on the graphic.

The Night Owl Reviews Web Hunt is On!

2010-10-01T11:37:00.017-04:00

Hello lovelies!

The Night Owl Reviews Web Hunt is organized by Night Owl Reviews--one of my favorite review sites. This is an original, prize-winning contest that sends contestants on hunts to many different author websites in the search of a hidden graphic. The best place to learn details and how to participate is the NOR site.

Can you find my hidden graphic? It's somewhere on this blog. ;-)

Click the graphic to go to NOR. Good luck to all!!

You Interview the Author Contest

2010-09-28T11:52:00.002-04:00

YOU INTERVIEW THE AUTHOR CONTEST

On Thursday, September 30th at 8pm EST, I will launch a contest in which TWO reader members can win a wonderful opportunity to interview an author in my group. Authors to be interviewed: Christine Bell and Eve Langlais.

What do you have to do? Simply answer about 5 questions about several authors by visiting their sites. The first two contestants to respond correctly will interview one author each. The interview will be posted on the author's blog or website, with the winner's name included if desired.

Rules:

Answers must be posted to the Evie Balos yahoo group.

Answers must be numbered according to the questions. (Copying the questions to the new message is a good idea.)

Brief, clear answers are acceptable. No need to use full sentences.

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Feel free to email me with any questions. (evie at eviebalos dot com)

If you need to register at my group, go here.

Good luck!

Evie

Lindsay's Romantics Blog

2010-09-23T13:11:00.004-04:00

It's always a great experience to meet fellow romance authors, especially when they are as down to earth and personable as Lindsay Townsend. She's multi-published in various genres, particularly one of my favorites: historical romance--rugged, sexy knights included!

Lindsay offered me a space on her blog to chat about my latest book, The Unnecessary Bodyguard. You can check that out here along with an interesting variety of topics posted by Lindsay and her followers.

Thanks Lindsay!

Join us at The Haunt on September 29 !

2010-09-22T16:19:00.003-04:00

Ready for some serious chatter?

CHAT at The Haunt on September 29, 6 – 9 pm est. A treat for fans of romance and erotic romance! Authors participating: Evie Balos, Christine Bell, C.J. Elliott, Eleri Stone, Rebecca Goings.

See you there!

Evie

Wedding Feet

2010-09-13T22:24:00.001-04:00

Is there such a term as wedding feet? I've probably killed off several neurons or something from my alcoholic indulgence at my cousin's wedding on Saturday. Hey...it was my FIRST cousin. No hangover though. Anyway, point being that I can't recall if this term exists. It must right? I danced a lot...we do that at our weddings--even on chairs--and of course I was wearing three inch strappy heels so my feet are still aching. I haven't bothered soaking them in warm water because I haven't had the time. And presently, I don't have a man available to massage them--and it has to be a man. Men have strong hands. ;-)

Btw, the shoes depicted in the pic aren't the ones I wore. I just think they look cool.

My Interview with Night Owl Reviews

2010-09-07T21:36:00.001-04:00

I've been interviewed by the lovely Tamazon at NOR! Thirteen lucky questions! Lol...actually it was a great way to spend my afternoon and I'm thankful for the opportunity. Read the interview right here.

Announcing the Night Owl Reviews Web Hunt!

2010-09-07T12:58:00.005-04:00

Hello lovelies!

The Night Owl Reviews Web Hunt is organized by Night Owl Reviews--one of my favorite reviews sites. This is an original, prize-winning contest that sends contestants on hunts to many different author websites in the search of a hidden graphic. The best place to learn details and how to participate is the NOR site.

Click the link below the graphic to go there now. Good luck to all!!

Go to the NOR Web Hunt Page

I'm Actually Here!

2010-09-03T16:59:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone!

This is my very first post on this brand new blog. I might be a prolific writer, but I'm not a prolific blogger, unfortunately. Or Twitterer, for that matter. However, I was told that if I wanted to have any respectable presence on the Internet--particularly being an eBook author--I'd have to have a blog. Not that I'm new to eBooks, as I've been writing for several years, but I stuck to the basics before: website and yahoo groups. I promise to post as often as I can.

So here I am and it's kind of cool to be able to "chat" informally and perhaps even ramble and vent in the near future about all manner of things. Firstly, I'd like to thank Jennifer of Sapphire Designs for making my blog look as lovely as my site. Thanks hon! :-)

Next, I'm thrilled about my new book, The Unnecessary Bodyguard. It's now available at Cobblestone Press. I tend to fall in love with all of my heroes, but I have a soft spot for the exotic, half-vampire, half-human essence of Jovan Markovic. I love his solemn moods and slightly tortured soul, and his raw passion left me wishing for my own personal dhampir, lol.

Read a blurb and an excerpt here. Or, if you want to skip that and rush right over to Cobblestone to view the book, go here.

There's more! I'm working on book two in the Dhampir Desire series, telling the story of Jovan's brother.

Evie