Romance Rules

Vote for Me!

2011-06-03T06:17:00.000-07:00

My very first BDSM short story, Belle Behind Bars got a totally awesome review from Whipped Cream Reviews. As if that wasn't enough to make my day, I got an email telling me that the story was up for Book of the Week at the site!!

So between Saturday morning and Sunday evening, you can vote for it if you want my undying gratitude.

I hope you have a great weekend, too!

My Big, Awesome Week

2011-05-09T02:23:00.000-07:00

This is a big week for me. Tomorrow is my birthday and today is release day for my first book from Carina Press, Protective Custody. I'm also doing a blog tour and will be all over the blogoshere. If you'd like to find me and have a chance to win some of the prizes I am giving away, here's my schedule for the next couple of days:

Monday: Not Your Usual Suspects, You Gotta Read, Book Junkie. Tuesday: Manic Readers. Wednesday: Carina Press Blog, Romance Junkies, The Romance Dish. For a full list of blog stops and interviews, check my website.

Here’s a little about Protective Custody from Carina Press:

Witness to a murder, but no one will believe her…

Shocked by the brutal crime she witnesses through the window of her small office, Megan Jackson calls the police and is devastated when they question the truth of her story. With no body and no evidence of a crime, she’s written off as a nutcase.

Megan suspects the killer saw her face. Terrified, she calls the only person she can trust—her ex-boyfriend and former police officer, Will McCoy.

Despite a devastating breakup, Will jumps at the chance to help the woman who broke his heart. When the killer ramps up the stakes, Will is forced to take her into hiding—where the passion they once shared reignites, deeper and hotter than ever. But can Will keep Megan alive long enough to win back her heart?

Permission to reproduce text granted by Harlequin Books S.A. Cover Art used by arrangement with Harlequin Enterprises Limited. All rights reserved. ® and ™ are trademarks owned by Harlequin Enterprises Limited or its affiliated companies, used under license.

Treading New Waters

2011-04-03T13:01:00.000-07:00

I've been hearing so much about established authors trying out self-publishing that I decided to give it try. My friend Jax of Jaxadora Design made me this lovely cover.

So here goes:

Game of Smoke and Mirrors

When Jia Mason’s estranged husband turns up missing from their Florida vacation home, Jia is the prime suspect in his murder. Afraid she’s being railroaded by the police, she flees to New Hampshire in search of answers only to be arrested there.

Zack Sizemore is tasked with extraditing the beautiful fugitive until a blizzard strands them with nothing but their mutual attraction to keep them warm. When they stumble upon a deserted cabin, Jia sees her opportunity to charm Zack long enough for her to escape. What she doesn’t count on is falling for the handsome lawman. Or the danger that awaits them in the remote cabin.

Buy it HERE or HERE

What do you think of self-published books? Do you buy only authors you know? Does self-publishing a book affect how you feel about an author?

2011-03-22T15:30:00.000-07:00

A FREE Read!!! The After Party is now available for your Kindle HERE

Or download other ebook formats HERE.

Victoria meets a handsome stranger at a relative’s wedding. When he asks her out for a drink after, she invites him to her place. After a steamy encounter, they discover they have more than their profession and their love of cats in common. Their paths have crossed before. But will that connection end what they’ve just begun?

Branching Out

2011-03-07T17:33:00.000-08:00

So I took the plunge. I started my own blog - no other contributors to keep me afloat. Why is this a big deal for me? I've done it before but it's been a couple of years. Being part of group blog means the responsibility to keep it fresh and interesting (and up-to-date) rests in the hands of many people. But an individual blog - well, if I screw that up or neglect it, I only have myself to blame.

So here goes. You can find me now at http://wynterdaniels.blogspot.com/. If it's not updated at least once a week, you have my permission to give me a serious tongue-lashing. Please, stop by and say hello.

A Two-Fer

2011-01-20T09:12:00.000-08:00

I lucked out this week with my Ellora's Cave books. First - my editor extended a contract offer on my first BDSM story, Belle Behind Bars. Also, I found out I have TWO releases in the next couple weeks! One is a Quickie titled Blackout that will be available February 3. The other is a freebee. That's right - you can order The After Party for FREE from Ellora's Cave. That book, releasing on January 31 is a super short erotic vignette. So please - whether you plan to read The After Party soon or later, please download it! You can also get it shortly after the release date on Amazon as a Kindle book. So go for it.

Here's a little About The After Party:

Victoria meets a handsome stranger at a relative’s wedding. When he asks her out for a drink after, she invites him to her place. After a steamy encounter they discover they have more than their profession and their love of cats in common. Their paths have crossed before. But will that connection end what they’ve just begun?

And here's a blurb for Blackout:

Kendra learns that her boyfriend thinks she’s a cold fish. To make matters worse, he’s made plans to go away with one of her coworkers for a long weekend. When a blackout strands her in an elevator with sexy Latin maintenance man Jorge, she sets out to prove she’s more hot dish than cold fish.

Happy Reading!

Do it Your Way

2010-12-28T06:00:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been reading a book, having a perfectly good time indulging in a sexy love scene when you hit a word that turns you so off that you actually cringe? I know I have. Even though I write both erotic romance and erotica, I sometimes run into names for body parts that turn my stomach. I think everyone has a line they're not comfortable crossing in that regard. But what turns my stomach might just turn you on -- and vice-versa.

And what about certain sex acts. Most publishers of erotic romance and erotica have a list of taboo activities they don't want to see in submissions because they cross nearly every reader's line. But that leaves a host of other naughty behaviors wide open and many of us enjoy being "bad" to some degree. Unfortunately in our culture, there seems to be more that's considered bad than what's considered good!

Our sexual mores have been influenced by ancient cultures, political movements and religious teachings. The ancient Greeks' ideas about sex centered on penile-vaginal penetration to the point of male orgasm. Too bad for the ladies.

Most Western religions teach that male-female sex within the matrimonial relationship is the only acceptable way to do it. Many governments even dictate what people may or may not do in the privacy of their bedrooms.

As long as the parties involved have a fully consensual relationship and have safe, fulfilling sex, why should it matter to politicians or clergy? Sex is one of the most fulfilling endeavors we humans engage in and it is an important part of our health and happiness. So whatever you call it, just do it!

Title Love

2010-12-08T07:40:00.000-08:00

I have a brand new book out. Rude, Crude and Socially Unacceptable is now available from Ellora's Cave. When I started writing this story, the title came to me almost instantly, like a gift from the title gods. When I sent the submission to my editor she told me she'd accept it merely on the title. Of course, by the time I sent it she had already bought five other stories from me.

But titles don't always fall from the sky. In fact, for many authors, titling their books is even more challenging than writing them. In the big picture, how important are titles? Have you ever purchased a book based on its name?

Here is a bit about Rude, Crude and Socially Unacceptable:

Biker Nick Ramos needs help transforming his image. He hires his new hairdresser to make over his life, but he has an ulterior motive. He wants to get April into his bed.

April Conway is wary of all bikers since one destroyed her family. But Nick awakens secret desires she never knew she had. Betraying her family isn’t an option, but she is powerless to resist Nick’s erotic pull.

You can read an excerpt HERE. Enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T07:32:00.000-08:00

With the holidays gearing up, my calendar is filling with social engagements and family obligations. One of those social events is a yearly party we attend or host with a group of five other families. We've been doing this for more than ten years now. Some of the kids are in college now, some of the couples no longer together, but the tradition continues.

One of the things we usually do is a White Elephant Exchange. None of us are wealthy, but we all have enough. So when this year's hostess suggested we do something different, I immediately applauded the idea. She said she has a few soldiers stationed in Afghanistan to whom she regularly sends little gift packages. This year, with so many people hurting financially and so many soldiers away from home and their families, she wants us each to bring a gift for a soldier. She will then mail the items off.

The kids usually do their own exchange, but we decided to have each bring a new toy for a local toy drive for children in need.

I thought the sentiments were so worthwhile, I should blog about it. Maybe other people will follow suit. With Thanksgiving upon us, I always think about everything and everyone I have in my life. I'm so thankful for those who put their lives on the line every day to keep the rest of us safe.

That said, here are some links to help you send items to soldiers:

US Postal Service Supporting Our Troops links: http://www.usps.com/supportingourtroops/

Holiday Gifts for Troops: http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/6435603/ns/today-today_entertainment

USO: http://action.uso.org/action/sem-generic-basic?sc=OM-google-p_GeneralMilitary-search_soldier

How to Send a Holiday Gift to a Soldier: http://www.howtodothings.com/careers/how-to-send-a-holiday-gift-to-a-soldier

2010-11-16T14:02:00.000-08:00

One question that friends and readers alike love to ask me is, “How do you come up with all those story ideas?” I have a pat answer to this question—from reading the newspaper and magazines. You see, I often get the kernel of an idea from a story about a woman in peril or a dignitary visiting the United States from some exotic land.

But when I thought about my latest release (my first from Ellora’s Cave), I realized there was no way I got the idea of a woman ending up on a tropical beach with two handsome bodyguards, the premise for the story. So I started thinking about where the spark for the idea came from. I couldn’t come up with a single clue. Regardless of how creative someone is, all story ideas originate somewhere. Anywhere.

Even from distractions. My two biggest distractions are my secret guilty pleasures—playing Scrabble on my computer and watching an occasional mindless reality show. Far as I know, I’ve never plucked a story premise from Scrabble. But one of my earlier books, Falling Star is about a grown up child star who is forced to accept a gig as star of her own reality show. So yeah, I might have gotten that idea from television.

The more I thought about my viewing habits, it hit me. The inspiration for Tropical Exposure was one of those movie star/socialites you see on the entertainment channels with a million flashes greeting them every time they leave a restaurant or go to the gym. I wondered how annoying that would be.

Hence the distraction yields inspiration. Check out the blurb for Tropical Exposure:

Megastar Marin Shay disappears from the radar a few weeks a year for a vacation from the pressures of Hollywood. This time, though, instead of the usual bodyguards she gets stuck with—beefy middle-aged men with bad breath and even worse comb-overs—she lucks into some scorching-hot eye candy.

Tony and Josh share the same objective—taking care if Marin in every way possible. And when she proposes they indulge her fantasy of a ménage a trois, both men are definitely eager to please.

There’s only one problem—one of them is really a tabloid reporter who could ruin everything.

Are you reminded of a certain pop princess? Okay, so honestly, only the character’s phenomenal celebrity is reminiscent of said princess. But that’s all it takes. This author takes the inspiring spark and runs with it. Did I mention when I was growing up all my dolls had back-stories? Even the stuffed animals had sordid lives. Perhaps my head has just always been filled with stories. Might explain why I daydreamed my way through school!

Okay—maybe I’m just weird.

New Release and Giveaway

2010-11-08T06:40:00.000-08:00

I am so excited that today is release day for my first erotic romantic suspense, or rather, my alter ego's.

Here’s a little about the book:

When Kelsey Ackerman’s assistant at her used bookstore is murdered, the police label it a botched robbery by a desperate drug addict. But Kelsey suspects the perpetrator was looking for a rare Shakespeare volume that someone unknowingly donated. Now a killer’s sights are set on Kelsey.

Jail guard Jason Jones only wants to protect her, but after suffering a controlling father and an abusive ex-husband, Kelsey wants nothing to do with the confident, hot sergeant. Until the danger becomes crystal clear, and the only man who can save her is the very man she can’t resist.

You can read an excerpt HERE or purchase the book (or any of my other books) HERE.

I will draw one commenter to receive a free copy of TROPIC OF TROUBLE.

Lots of Happenings

2010-08-25T07:16:00.000-07:00

September will be a busy month for me. Between two book releases, guest blog spots and teaching an online class, I will definitely have my hands full! Out of the Dark, a collection of three novellas will be out September 24. My story, Emotional Baggage is near and dear to my heart. Here's the blurb:

Germophobe Reese Robinson is sentenced to reside in the Buffalo apartment building she inherited after it is sited for health violations. She never suspected the mysterious tenant downstairs was actually her long lost love.

Fugitive Jon Bender thought he was safe until Reese moved in. Can he disguise his identity or will his heart give him away?

Coming September 30 from Ellora's Cave - Customer Service. Here's the blurb:

Mystery shopper Carly Weber’s husband divorced her for a snooty sales woman, leaving Carly with a bruised and battered self-image. When she evaluates a new sex toy and lingerie store, she finds much more than kinky gear. One by one and then together, two hunky salesmen pleasure her and give her the best customer service of her life, restoring her confidence in the process.

I will also be blogging over at Deliliah Devlin's blog on September 22 and giving away a copy of Customer Service! So check it out.

I will also be teaching an online class with my nurse practitioner friend, Joanie White. We are teaching MedSpeak for writers at CFRWA. You can register for that HERE. It is a 4-day class for fiction writers interested in learning how to research medical information, common misconceptions and a whole lot more.

A Release and a Contest

2010-07-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Today is another release day for Wynter Daniels! You know how much I love those. So to celebrate, I am giving away a free copy of this short story. Just pop over to my Yahoo Group and join up. I will draw a name and give away a copy of Getting Even with Warren. Here is the link for the Yahoo group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WynterDanielsEroticRomance/join

Here's a little about Getting Even with Warren:

Widow Macy Halstead learned of her much older husband’s voracious appetite for cheating shortly before his death. Now it’s too late to get back at him. When she meets his bi-racial illegitimate son at the funeral, a mutual attraction flares. She leaves with him and the two share a night of hot passion.

Alex Jackson set out to get back at the father who treated him like dirt. Bedding his old man’s widow fit the bill—until he forgets his reasons and realizes he really likes Macy. But after a steamy fling, she seems to have second thoughts. Can they overcome their initial agendas and explore the possibility of a relationship?

And if you'd like to read an excerpt, just click HERE. Purchase the ebook HERE.

It's Heeere!!

2010-06-22T18:13:00.000-07:00

I am soooo excited! Horsing Around, my very first cowboy story will be released tomorrow, Wednesday, June 23 from Ellora's Cave. Leave a comment here and I will enter you in a drawing to win my other EC book, Tropical Exposure. Horsing Around features an uber-hot hero, a reluctant heroine and some hot Florida horse country hanky-panky. Check it out for yourself!

Blog Hopping

2010-06-15T15:12:00.000-07:00

Come join me at Cynthia Eden's Blog on Wednesday, June 16. I will be dishing on what I hate about being a writer. Comment and I will enter you in a drawing to win the Wynter Daniels ebook of your choice.

Ellora's Cave Authors at Coffee Time Romance

2010-06-03T04:34:00.000-07:00

Join my alter ego, Wynter Daniels all during the month of June over at Coffee Time Romance for a Readers' Retreat featuring a bunch of Ellora's Cave authors. There will be excerpts, sneak peeks and contests. Win a copy of my first Ellora's Cave release, Tropical Exposure. Check out my June 23 release, a cowboy story titled Horsing Around. Hope to see you there!

2010-05-26T11:32:00.000-07:00

I just got my release date for my next Wynter Daniels book. Horsing Around will be available June 23 from Ellora's Cave. I can't figure out what I love most about this cover - Is it the hot guy's muscled shoulders? His amazing pecs? Or perhaps the hint of awesome abs? What you might not have notices is that this cover differs from the one below. Since the cowboy in the story lives in Ocala, Florida, about as far from the west as one could get, the publisher decided it was better to release it under the contemporary line, Moderne, rather than the western line, Lawless. Either way, this is one hot cover and one hot story. Here is a blurb:

City girl Paige Eastman arrives at her recently deceased father’s Ocala, Florida horse ranch to settle his estate, but she finds more than material assets with his business partner, resident cowboy Jake Skinner. The two engage in a hot fling until Paige learns she must sell the struggling enterprise out from under Jake.

All Jake wants is a chance to turn the business around since Paige’s father nearly ran it into the ground. But his attention quickly shifts to wrangling the hot prima donna who is now his partner. Can they overcome their differences without dousing the fire burning between them?

Stay tuned for release day contests!

Two Hawt New Covers!

2010-05-23T16:13:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to share my upcoming covers. I love it when I get men on the cover, particularly smokin' hot ones. Honestly, I think the books garner more attention that way. If you'd like to read a little about these stories, please visit my Wynter Daniels' website HERE. Both books should be released over the summer. And I have more coming, but I'll tell you about that soon.

The New Me

2010-04-17T09:48:00.000-07:00

Check out my brand new release, Tropic of Trouble from Ellora's Cave. This is a steamy read that I wrote under my new pen name, Wynter Daniels.

Tony and Josh share the same objective—taking care of Marin in every way possible. And when she proposes they indulge her fantasy of a ménage a trois, both men are definitely eager to please.

There’s only one problem—one of them is really a tabloid reporter who could ruin everything.

You'll find more of Wynter's sexy stories at my new website - http://www.wynterdaniels.com/

New Blog

2009-10-19T14:06:00.000-07:00

Come by and say hey at Naughty Author Chicks, a new blog featuring four authors of the hottest erotic romance out there - Savannah Stuart, Calista Fox, Jina Bacarr and oh - moi! We'll be dishing on our latest releases and all things naughty!

2009-09-22T21:36:00.001-07:00

Compromising Positions is one of the 5 giveaways today! Check it out.

Writeminded

All About E-Publishing Class

2009-08-31T05:49:00.000-07:00

Interested in learning more about E-Publishing? The Black Diamond RWA chapter located in the San Francisco East Bay area has asked me to teach an online class called The Ins and Outs of E-Publishing. If you want to find out about what publishers are looking for, which ones will make you the most money, the best resources to check out publishers and much much more, check out the class. It starts next Monday, September 7 and runs through Friday, Sept 11. You can register for the class any time here.

Romancing the Holidays

2009-08-21T19:52:00.001-07:00

Time is approaching again for the Central Florida Romance Writer's annual Romancing the Holidays benefit signing. I know, I know - the holidays are a long way off, but donations of books and promo materials for the 100 goody bags and many raffle baskets we make are starting to pile up in my dining room. But it's all for a good cause. Barnes & Noble donates a portion of the proceeds to the Adult Literacy League and virtually every penny raised from raffle tickets goes directly to the charity. So far, we have more than 20 authors scheduled to participate in the event to be held on Saturday, November 7 from 2-5 pm at the Altamonte Mall near Orlando. If you are interested in donating books and promotional items, please email me through my website. Special thanks to those authors who have generously donated books to the cause and particularly those who sent me substantial numbers of books so far - Brenda Novak, Karen Kelley, and Susan Meier.
If you love to read, the signing is a must. The first 100 customers get a free goody bag packed with books, pens, bookmarks and all sorts of promotional goodies! And at only a $1 a ticket, you get a chance to win a themed raffle basket. There are many to choose from.
Stay tuned for more information as the date nears.

2009-07-14T20:34:00.001-07:00

Best Book Of The Week

2009-07-04T09:47:00.001-07:00

Compromising Positions is up for Best Book Of The Week at Long & Short Reviews. I'd appreciate all the votes I can get!

http://www.longandshortreviews.com/LASR/recentrev.htm

E-Book Sale

2009-07-04T08:23:00.001-07:00

Phaze is having a 30% off sale! My stories there are cheap anyway, but this makes them quite the deal! For Saturday through Monday, July 4-6, the 30% off code on everything is FIREWORKS09

My Trip to the Naughties Shop

2009-07-02T17:23:00.000-07:00

All in the name of research. That's what DH said when he dragged me to our local purveyor of perversions. You see, I've recently started writing some super hot short stories and novellas. My darling, sweet hubby was kind and giving enough to sacrifice his precious time to enlighten me about what sort of costumes, devices, furniture (!) and literature were out there. And guess what? Aside from making an interesting evening's entertainment, I actually got some ideas for my Work In Progress. And you know what? I even learned a thing or two. I had no idea what some of the items were to be used for. We read packages, tried things on (don't ask, because I'll never tell), and even bought a couple of items (purely for the research).

But here's what I learned: There's only so much you can find out online. Sometimes research is best done by going and doing. Obviously, that's not always possible. But I'll tell you one thing -- it can be a whole lot of fun!

Romance Divas Workshop

2009-06-14T18:21:00.001-07:00

Please hop over to Romance Divas and check out my workshop on The Ins and Outs of E-Publishing. Mention something you read in Part 1, 2 or 3 in the comments here and I will enter your name in a drawing for a download of any of my e-books. Your choice!

Romance Divas

2009-05-31T12:09:00.000-07:00

I have the honor of being the Author of the Month for June at Romance Divas - a fabulous site for both readers and writers.
Check it out here.

I'll be doing a workshop on E-publishing later this month. Stop by and say hello!
If you've never been to Romance Divas, it's quite a treat. The classes are on the forums along with Diva chit-chat, announcements and all sorts of other good stuff!

Young Adult Release and Contest

2009-05-22T16:27:00.000-07:00

Today is release day for my first Young Adult Anthology, which will be out in print on July 10.
SUMMER LOVIN’ is a collection of love stories by six Climbing Rose authors about life on a ranch, summer jobs, sandcastle competitions, the tragedy of a flood, and falling in love with a rock star. From a rich Southern country club to a Midwest ranch and all the way to the cool beaches of the Pacific Northwest, this sweet collection of summer love stories revels in the magic of first love. You’ll enjoy stories by:Dara Edmondson, Laurie J. Edwards, Mona Ingram, Kimberlee R. Mendoza, Sydney Shay, and June Sproat.

I'll draw a name from those who comment here to win a custom tote bag (US only)!

Starting Over by Jenna Allen

2009-05-11T06:35:00.001-07:00

Starting Over by Jenna Allen

Jess and Scott haven’t had a conversation that didn’t end in a fight in months. Making up is fun, but the clock is ticking on their marriage. Is a cross-country move the cause of their problems, or the solution?

excerpt ::

The hum of the engines echoed in my ear. I never could sleep for long on planes. Maybe if I kept my eyes closed they wouldn’t be too puffy. I snuggled deeper into the pillow, only then noticing where my body had turned.

I peeked up at Scott’s sleeping face, his dark lashes fanning against his cheek. We hadn’t slept this close since before I found out he sold the apartment. Up until then I hadn’t been happy about the thought of moving, but I’d open to the possibility. Then the phone call came and the rug had literally been pulled out from under me. We were going, and to drive the point home, he’d sold ours.

It had been an amazing offer, and if we’d already agreed to the move, I would have been happy about it. As the days passed and moving became imminent it seemed silly to still be angry. I knew everything I held inside I wouldn’t be able to get over, so I let it out.

It was a New York problem. If Portland was to be a fresh start, I needed to leave it there, with the stack of delivery menus and perfect bagels.

I snuggled deeper into Scott, my head on his shoulder, lifting one of my legs across his. And then I realized just where my hand was. On the fly of his slacks. If there hadn’t been a blanket covering us, I might have been mortified. Instead, I was simply embarrassed and moved my hand back to my own leg.

“Now don’t do that,” Scott whispered against my hair, his warm fingers wrapping around my wrist and pulling my hand back to him. “I need to be reminded there are parts of me you like.”

New Release and Contest!

2009-05-03T05:13:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to announce my first release from Red Sage! I've already garnered a terrific review for this novella from Romance Junkies you can read here.

Here's the blurb: When Audrey Brookstone meets a handsome foreigner at a Broadway show, she's instantly taken with his good looks and charming demeanor. After an evening of passion in his limousine, he whisks away to be his courtesan in Cazbekistan, where he is a crown prince. Prince Milo agrees not to force himself on her, but rather to make her fall in love with him in only eight weeks, or he must set her free with a king's ransom. Can Audrey resist his charms or will she give in to his lavish seduction?

Win a $15 gift card from Fictionwise by answering all the questions on my website . I'll draw a winner on Friday, May 8! Just email me the answers at ddedmon88 @ yahoo.com.

Good Luck!

Thoroughly Compromised!

2009-03-23T22:11:00.000-07:00

Compromising Positions releases today!

Falling in love is the last thing on his busy agenda…but compromising positions can lead just about anywhere.

David Strong knows how to do a lot of things—run an international fitness company, finesse stock portfolios and stay out of emotional entanglements. That is, until he gets tangled up with Sophie Delfino and her Sensational Sex workout. He’s supposed to help her demonstrate Kama Sutra positions for her couples’ yoga class. The rigorous postures require more than just physical control. And his co-instructor unexpectedly tests his control to the limit.

Sophie’s been fantasizing about David since her teens, but she never dreamed she’d actually be expected to run through her intimate desires—with an audience! The class is very professional, tame even—or it would be, if she’d been in any of the positions before. But she hasn’t—except in her wildest fantasies about David. Sophie knows she wants David in every way, and she’s flexible enough to use whatever she has to get him.

David can’t afford any unexpected distractions. Besides the sensual positions he has to endure without embarrassing himself in public, there’s an embezzler stealing from his company. And then there’s Sophie—who is well on her way to stealing his well-guarded heart.

Warning: This is one exercise program you won’t need to consult your doctor before beginning…unless he’s hot and available for house calls. The Kama Sutra isn’t for the prudish or faint of heart, and neither is this story.

Read An Excerpt Online

Touch of Magic Contest Deadline Extended!

2009-03-19T16:19:00.000-07:00

NOTE: NEW DEADLINE!
The Central Florida Romance Writers is pleased to announce its Touch ofMagic Contest, open to all unpublished RWA members
Fees: CFRW Members, $30 Non-Members, $35Electronic: subtract $5: CFRW members, $25 non-members, $30Fee includes return postage.
Finalists will have a chance to revise before entries are sent to editors.
Receipt Deadline: March 22, 2009
Enter: Up to the first 25 pages of your manuscript (prologue included inpage count), plus a synopsis (not judged, 3 double-spaced pages, max).

Categories:
Series Contemporary
Paranormal
Historical
Single Title
Contemporary
Novel with Strong Romantic Elements.
Judges: experienced/ certified, published
Final round judges:
Series Contemporary, Gail Chasan, Silhouette Special Edition
Paranormal, Allison Brandau, The Berkley Publishing Group
Historical, Helen Rosburg, Medallion Press
Single Title, Danielle Poiesz, Pocket Books
NSRE, Esi Sogah, Avon/HarperCollins

Top prize: Touch of Magic award, certificate, announced in RWR.
For more information, entry form and rules, visit the CFRW website athttp://www.cfrwa.org/ <http://www.cfrwa.org/> or send an SASE to:
Touch of Magic, c/o Lorena Streeter4758 Sturbridge CirOrlando, FL 32812Email:
http://us.mc01g.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=lorenas%40cfl.rr.com

Free Workshop!

2009-03-16T09:10:00.001-07:00

Writing Historical Paranormal Romance with Some of The Hottest Authors in the Genre

March 20th & 21st at Romance Divas

Featuring:

Colleen Gleason

Melissa Mayhue

Jennifer Ashley

Sharon Page

Jennifer St. Giles

Want to know how to write romance that brings a mysterious and paranormal twist to history? Romance Divas is hosting a 2-day workshop with some of the hottest names in the Historical Paranormal genre. It will take place at the Romance Diva Forum. All are welcome. To get access to the forum you will need to register.

Free Workshop!

2009-02-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

From the Call to the Bookstore

February 25th-26th at Romance Divas

Featuring:

KRISTAN HIGGINS

Want to know what it takes to get from “the call” to the bookstore in New York publishing? Romance Divas is hosting a 2-day workshop with RITA award winning author Kristan Higgins, who can answer that question and many more! It will take place at the Romance Diva Forum. All are welcome. To get access to the forum you will need to register.

my erotic menage (f/f/m) BURN releases tomorrow!!

2009-01-05T16:52:00.000-08:00

And I'm excited to say it's a Kwips and Kritiques Recommended Read!!

"The ménage between Ally, Heather, and Blake is steaming hot! Anne Rainey is an author I never fail to read. Her stories pack a very powerful punch and the heat level is always a raging inferno. Don’t miss out on BURN as this is one hot number that is a guaranteed winner!" --Reviewed by Anne, Kwips and Kritiques

“Burn” by Anne Rainey

Read An Excerpt Online
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Red Hots!

ISBN: 978-1-60504-352-4
Length: Short StoryPrice: 2.50
Publication Date: January 6, 2009
Cover art by Scott Carpenter

BLURB:
A woman scorned…can be damned delicious!

Ally Ryanaldo and Blake Steele were high school sweethearts, in love and inseparable. Ally always assumed she’d be his wife, raise his babies and live happily ever after. Those dreams were shattered the day Blake left her and his small town life for the bright lights of New York City.

Now, ten years later, Blake is back—and wants to pick up where they left off. Ally has other ideas. Naughty ideas. With the help of her kinky girlfriend, Heather, Ally shows Blake her wild side.

When her little plan backfires, though, Ally’s very much afraid she may lose the only man she’s ever loved—for good.

Warning: This title contains explicit sex, graphic language, anal play, ménage a trois (f/f/m), whips and whipped cream. Read An Excerpt Online

Samhellion Holiday Hunt

2008-12-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

Are you prepared to undertake a festive mission?

How to Play:
Each author has placed a graphic of a Christmas bulb (ornament, not light) on their website. Go to each website on the list, locate the bulb and write down the color. Please note - each graphic is within 2 clicks from the main page of the site.

Once you’ve collected all the info, come back here and fill out the form!

Each entry will be used for a random drawing for a free ebooks from all participating authors. (33 ebooks / winners total)

This week these elves have hidden the ornaments ::

Romantic Times 2008 Reviewers Choice Awards Nominees - Mainstream & Chick Lit

2008-12-09T09:04:00.000-08:00

Best Mainstream and ChickLit Fiction Novels of 2008

Women's Fiction
THE SUGAR QUEEN Sarah Addison Allen Bantam (Jun.)
FIREFLY LANE Kristin Hannah St. Martin's (Feb.)
THE GIRL WITH NO SHADOW Joanne Harris Morrow (May)
THE ART OF KEEPING SECRETS Patti Callahan Henry NAL (Jun.)
THE GIRL WHO STOPPED SWIMMING Joshilyn Jackson Grand Central (Mar.)
THREE MOTHERS Sonia Lambert Berkley (Jan.)
CERTAIN GIRLS Jennifer Weiner Atria (Apr.)
SNOWFALL AT WILLOW LAKE Susan Wiggs Mira (Feb.)

Chick Lit Novel
THE BRIDE OF CASA DRACULA Marta Acosta Pocket (Sep.)
FIFTEEN MINUTES OF SHAME Lisa Daily Plume (Apr.)
NOTES FROM THE BACKSEAT Jodi Gehrman Red Dress Ink (Jan.)
THE HARD WAY Julie Luongo Forge (Jan.)
RECONSTRUCTING BRIGID Lee Nichols Red Dress Ink (Aug.)
SLIGHTLY SUBURBAN Wendy Markham Red Dress Ink (Jul.)
QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE MARRYING Melissa Senate Red Dress Ink (Jun.)

Young Adult Novel
AUDREY, WAIT! Robin Benway Razorbill (Apr.)
WHAT I SAW AND HOW I LIED Judy Blundell Scholastic (Nov.)
THE HUNGER GAMES Suzanne Collins Scholastic (Oct.)
PAPER TOWNS John Green Dutton (Oct.)

Romantic Times 2008 Reviewers Choice Awards Nominees - Best Small Press

2008-12-09T09:03:00.000-08:00

Best Small Press 2008

Small Press Contemporary Paranormal/Futuristic
CALL OF THE HIGHLAND MOON Kendra LeighCastle Sourcebooks (May)
HER EYES Jennifer Cloud &Regan Taylor Amira (Jan.)
PROMISE FOR TOMORROW Liz Kreger Samhain (Oct.)
CLOCKWORK HEART Dru Pagliassotti Juno (Apr.)
SHAKING OFF THE DUST Rhianna Samuels Samhain (May)
CRY OF SORROW Holly Taylor Medallion (Jul.)

Small Press Romance
TAKING FLIGHT Connie Cox Avalon (Apr.)
SEALED WITH A KISS Mary Margret Daughtridge Sourcebooks (Apr.)
EVERYTHING BUT A BRIDE Holly Jacobs Avalon (Aug.)
WINDSWEPT Ann Macela Medallion (Feb.)

Romantic Times 2008 Reviewers Choice Awards Nominees - Best Contemporary and Paranormal Romances

2008-12-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

Best Contemporary and Paranormal Romances of 2008

Contemporary Romance
OVERNIGHT MALE Elizabeth Bevarly HQN (Jun.)
EVERYBODY LOVES EVIE Beth Ciotta HQN (Feb.)
THIGH HIGH Christina Dodd Signet (Mar.)
HELLO, DOGGY Elaine Fox Avon (Jan.)
ACCIDENTALLY YOURS Susan Mallery HQN (Jan.)
FLAT-OUT SEXY Erin McCarthy Berkley Sensation (Nov.)
UNRAVEL ME Christie Ridgway Berkley Sensation (Nov.)

Futuristic/Fantasy Romance
MOONSTRUCK Susan Grant HQN (Jun.)
SOLAR HEAT Susan Kearney Tor Paranormal Romance (Feb.)
HIDDEN Eve Kenin Shomi (Jul.)
THE MAGE'S DAUGHTER Lynn Kurland Berkley Sensation (Jan.)
COUNTDOWN Michelle Maddox Shomi (Aug.)
PHENOMENAL GIRL 5 A.J. Menden Shomi (Nov.)
SHADES OF DARK Linnea Sinclair Bantam (Aug.)

Vampire Romance
MIDNIGHT RISING Lara Adrian Dell (Apr.)
THE DARKNESS L.A. Banks St. Martin's Griffin (Feb.)
BECAUSE YOUR VAMPIRE SAID SO Michele Bardsley Signet Eclipse (May)
DARK CURSE Christine Feehan Berkley (Sep.)
DARKNESS EVERLASTING Alexandra Ivy Zebra (May)
SUCKER BET Erin McCarthy Berkley Sensation (Jan.)
THE ACCIDENTAL VAMPIRE Lynsay Sands Avon (Jan.)

Shapeshifter Romance
THE ACCIDENTAL WEREWOLF Dakota Cassidy Berkley Sensation (Feb.)
KISS OF FIRE Deborah Cooke Signet (Feb.)
THE DRAGON MASTER Allyson James Berkley Sensation (Nov.)
THE LAST TWILIGHT Marjorie M. Liu Leisure (Feb.)
WALK ON THE WILD SIDE Christine Warren St. Martin's (Jun.)

Contemporary Paranormal Romance
DESTINY KILLS Keri Arthur BantamSpectra (Nov.)
TURBULENT SEA Christine Feehan Jove (Aug.)
NOAH Jacquelyn Frank Zebra (Sep.)
THUNDER MOON Lori Handeland St. Martin's (Jan.)
DEMON'S HUNGER Eve Silver Forever (Dec.)
NIGHT SEASON Eileen Wilks Berkley Sensation (Nov.)

Paranormal Action Adventure Romance
ETERNAL PLEASURE Nina Bangs Leisure (Jul.)
DARK DESIRES AFTER DUSK Kresley Cole Pocket (Jun.)
PREDATORY GAME Christine Feehan Jove (Mar.)
DARK MAGIC Cheyenne McCray St. Martin's (Nov.)
HOSTAGE TO PLEASURE Nalini Singh BerkleySensation (Sep.)
BOUND BY SHADOW Anna Windsor Ballantine (Jul.)

Paranormal Fiction
UNDEAD AND UNWORTHY MaryJanice Davidson BerkleySensation(Jul.)
PLAYING WITH FIRE Katie MacAlister Signet (May)
UP IN SMOKE Katie MacAlister Signet (Oct.)

Romantic Times 2008 Reviewers Choice Awards Nominees - Best Books And Authors

2008-12-09T08:59:00.000-08:00

FOR BEST BOOKS AND AUTHORS OF 2008

Best Series Romance Novels 2008

Reviewers' ChoiceNominees

First Series Romance

HIS MISTRESS BY ARRANGEMENT Natalie Anderson Harlequin Presents (Jun.)
STRANGERS IN THE NIGHT Kerry Connor Harlequin Intrigue (Jun.)
MARRYING THE BOSS Megan Kelly Harlequin American (Apr.)
MARRIAGE AT THE MILLIONAIRE'S COMMAND Anne Oliver Harlequin Presents (Jun.)

Harlequin American

FOREVER HIS BRIDE Lisa Childs (Aug.)
RELUCTANT PARTNERS Kara Lennox (Jun.)
THE RIGHT MR. WRONG Cindi Myers (Feb.)
THE PILOT'S WOMAN Ann Roth (Mar.)
TEXAS HEIR Linda Warren (Sep.)

Harlequin Blaze

UNLEASHED Lori Borrill (Nov.)
RESTLESS Tori Carrington (Dec.)
MS. MATCH Jo Leigh (Oct.)
BELOW THE BELT Sarah Mayberry (Jun.)
PRIMAL INSTINCTS Jill Monroe (Feb.)

Harlequin Intrigue

BENEATH THE BADGE Rita Herron (Aug.)
NICK OF TIME Elle James (Nov.)
ARMED AND DEVASTATING Julie Miller (Jul.)
I'LL BE WATCHING YOU Tracy Montoya (Apr.)
GUARDIAN ANGEL Debra Webb (Feb.)
CHRISTMAS SPIRIT Rebecca York (Oct.)

HarlequinNASCAR

EXTREME CAUTION Jean Brashear (Dec.)
PEAK PERFORMANCE Helen Brenna (May)
HITTING THE BRAKES Ken Casper (Jun.)
HOT PURSUIT Wendy Etherington (Sep.)
TEAMING UP Abby Gaines (Aug.)

Harlequin Presents

THE MAGNATE'S INDECENT PROPOSAL Ally Blake (Sep.)
BRIDE OF DESIRE Sara Craven (Dec.)
BOUGHT: THE GREEK'S INNOCENT VIRGIN Sarah Morgan (Aug.)
ACCIDENTAL MISTRESS Susan Napier (May)
BEDDED BY THE GREEK BILLIONAIRE Kate Walker (Nov.)

Harlequin Presents Extra

THE ITALIAN'S PREGNANCY PROPOSAL Maggie Cox (Aug.)
ANGELO'S CAPTIVE VIRGIN India Grey (Sep.)
HOUSEKEEPER TO THE MILLIONAIRE Lucy Monroe (Apr.)
MISTRESS Kathryn Ross (Sep.)
THE GIANNAKIS BRIDE Catherine Spencer (May)

Harlequin Romance

THE BOSS'S UNCONVENTIONAL ASSISTANT Jennie Adams (Aug.)
HIRED: THE BOSS'S BRIDE Ally Blake (Oct.)
HER BABY, HIS PROPOSAL Teresa Carpenter (Jun.)
THE SHEIKH'S UNSUITABLE BRIDE Liz Fielding (Jan.)
THE HEIR'S CONVENIENT WIFE Myrna Mackenzie (May)

HarlequinSuperRomance

SECOND-CHANCE FAMILY Karina Bliss (Nov.)
FINDING MR. RIGHT Helen Brenna (Oct.)
TO PROTECT THE CHILD Anna DeStefano (Jun.)
BABY BY CONTRACT Debra Salonen (May)
HIS SON'S TEACHER Kay Stockham (Jul.)

Kimani Romance

TENDER SECRETS Ann Christopher (Oct.)
TAME A WILD STALLION Deborah Fletcher Mello (Jun.)
MODEL PERFECT PASSION Melanie Schuster (Apr.)
SECRET AGENT SEDUCTION Maureen Smith (Sep.)
HER KIND OF MAN Pamela Yaye (May)

Silhouette Desire

THE DESERT LORD'S BABY Olivia Gates (May)
QUADE'S BABIES Brenda Jackson (Dec.)
DANTE'S BLACKMAILED BRIDE Day Leclaire (Feb.)
DO NOT DISTURB UNTIL CHRISTMAS Charlene Sands (Nov.)
FRONT-PAGE ENGAGEMENT Laura Wright (Aug.)

Silhouette Nocturne

VEILED TRUTH Vivi Anna (Oct.)
LAST WOLF HUNTING Rhyannon Byrd (Apr.)
LAST WOLF WATCHING Rhyannon Byrd (May)
WILD HUNT Lori Devoti (Jun.)
DEADLY REDEMPTION Kathleen Korbel (Sep.)

Silhouette Romantic Suspense

COLD CASE COP Mary Burton (Jan.)
HER BEST FRIEND'S HUSBAND Justine Davis (Aug.)
A SOLDIER'S HOMECOMING Rachel Lee (Jul.)
UNDERCOVER WIFE Merline Lovelace (Oct.)
THE PASSION OF SAM BROUSSARD Maggie Price (Feb.)

Silhouette Special Edition

THE SINGLE DAD'S VIRGIN WIFE Susan Crosby (Oct.)
THE MILLIONAIRE'S MAKEOVER Lilian Darcy (May)
THE CHEF'S CHOICE Kristin Hardy (Aug.)
BACHELOR BOSS Christie Ridgway (Apr.)
YOURS, MINE . OR OURS? Karen Templeton (Jan.)

Steeple Hill Love Inspired

FINALLY A FAMILY Carolyne Aarsen (Jun.)
MISSION: MOTHERHOOD Marta Perry (Jul.)
A COWBOY'S HONOR Lois Richer (Apr.)
FAMILY TREASURES Kathryn Springer (Nov.)
TIME FOR GRACE Kate Welsh (May)

Steeple Hill Love Inspired Historical

COURTING MISS ADELAIDE Janet Dean (Sep.)
THE ROAD TO LOVE Linda Ford (May)
HIGH COUNTRY BRIDE Jillian Hart (Jul.)
LEGACY OF SECRETS Sara Mitchell (Apr.)
SEASIDE CINDERELLA Anna Schmidt (Jul.)

Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense

HIDDEN MOTIVE Hannah Alexander (Apr.)
SHADOWS AT THE WINDOW Linda Hall (Jul.) T
HE PROTECTOR'S PROMISE Shirlee McCoy (Nov.)
HER ONLY PROTECTOR Lisa Mondello (Aug.)
THE FACE OF DECEIT Ramona Richards (Sep.)
BROKEN LULLABY Pamela Tracy (Mar.)

Best Continuity

FULL EXPOSURE Diana Duncan Mediterranean Nights ( Jan.)
PICTURE OF PERFECTION Kristin Gabriel Thoroughbred Legacy (Jul.)
FLASHPOINT Connie Hall Athena Force (Apr.)
BREATHLESS Sharron McClellan Athena Force (Feb.)
BIDING HER TIME Wendy Warren Thoroughbred Legacy (Jul.)

Romantic Times 2008 Reviewers Choice Awards Nominees - Best Science Fiction & Fantasy

2008-12-09T08:57:00.000-08:00

Best Science Fiction & Fantasy Novels 2008

Science Fiction Novel
DUST Elizabeth Bear Bantam Spectra (Jan.)
ZOE'S TALE John Scalzi Tor (Aug.)
GALAXY BLUES Allen Steele Ace (Apr.)
SATURN'S CHILDREN Charles Stross Ace (Jul.)
HALF A CROWN Jo Walton Tor (Oct.)

Fantasy Novel
THE HOUSE OF THE STAG Kage Baker Tor (Sep.)
SHADOWS RETURN Lynn Flewelling Bantam Spectra (Jul.)
SHADOWBRIDGE Gregory Frost Del Rey (Jan.)
GOBLIN WAR Jim C. Hines Daw (Mar.)
CAST IN FURY Michelle Sagara Luna (Oct.)
FORTUNE AND FATE Sharon Shinn Ace (Nov.)
KING OF SWORD AND SKY C.L. Wilson Leisure (Oct.)

Epic Fantasy Novel
PRINCEPS' FURY Jim Butcher Ace (Dec.)
THE IMMORTAL PRINCE Jennifer Fallon Tor (Mar.)
BLACK SHIPS Jo Graham Orbit (Mar.)
HAWKSPAR Holly Lisle Tor (Jun.)
THE HERO OF AGES Brandon Sanderson Tor (Oct.)

UrbanFantasy Novel
MAGIC BURNS Ilona Andrews Ace (Apr.)
BITE THE BULLET L.A. Banks St. Martin's (Oct.)
MIDNIGHT'S DAUGHTER Karen Chance Onyx (Oct.)
PURE BLOOD Caitlin Kittredge St. Martin's (Sep.)
THE IRON HUNT Marjorie M. Liu Ace (Jul.)
STORM BORN Richelle Mead Zebra (Aug.)
MAGIC TO THE BONE Devon Monk Roc (Nov.)

Urban Fantasy Protagonist
Mercy Thompson IRON KISSED Patricia Briggs Ace (Jan.)
Joanne Baldwin GALE FORCE Rachel Caine Roc (Aug.)
Cat Crawfield ONE FOOT IN THE GRAVE Jeaniene Frost Avon (May)
Sookie Stackhouse FROM DEAD TO WORSE Charlaine Harris Ace (May)
Daunuan HOTTER THAN HELL Jackie Kessler Zebra (Aug.)
Marla Mason DEAD REIGN T.A. Pratt Bantam Spectra(Nov.)
Anna Strong LEGACY Jeanne C. Stein Ace (Sep.)

Romantic Times 2008 Reviewers Choice Awards Nominees - Best Erotic

2008-12-09T08:55:00.000-08:00

Best Erotic Romance and Erotic Novels of 2008

Paranormal/Fantasy/Sci-Fi Erotic Romance
UNDERCOVER Lauren Dane Heat (Dec.)
SEDUCED BY DARKNESS Delilah Devlin Avon Red (Apr.)
THE MARK OF THE VAMPIRE QUEEN Joey W. Hill Heat (Feb.)
FULL CIRCLE Ann Jacobs Ellora's Cave (May)
ETERNAL DESIGNS Gracie C. McKeever Siren (Mar.)
ADDICTED Lydia Parks Aphrodisia (Sep.)

Erotic Romantic Suspense
FORBIDDEN FRUIT Eden Bradley Delta (Nov.)
RIDING WILD Jaci Burton Heat (Feb.)
SHE'S ON TOP Susan Lyons Aphrodisia (Apr.)
JADED Karin Tabke Pocket (Jun.)

Erotic Romance Historical
MIRAGE Monica Burns Samhain (Jan.)
CROSSED SWORDS Marianne LaCroix Ellora's Cave (Apr.)
ONE WICKED NIGHT Noelle Mack Aphrodisia (Jan.)
BLACK SILK Sharon Page Aphrodisia (May)
NATE Beth Williamson Samhain (Jan.)

Erotic Fiction
SWAP Jenesi Ash Heat (Sep.)
THE PEOPLE YOU KNOW,THE SEX THEY HAVE Aubrey Leatherwood Lyrical (Dec.)
SLEEPING WITH THE DEVIL Vanessa Marlow St. Martin's Griffin (Apr.)
WHIP APPEAL Méta Smith Pocket (Aug.)

Romantic Times 2008 Reviewers Choice Awards Nominees - Historical

2008-12-09T08:49:00.000-08:00

Best Historical Novels 2008

Historical Romance of the Year
SEDUCTION OF A PROPER GENTLEMAN Victoria Alexander Avon (Sep.)
SIMPLY PERFECT Mary Balogh Delacorte (Apr.)
TRAITOR'S KISS/LOVER'S KISS Mary Blayney Bantam (Nov.)
NEVER ROMANCE A RAKE Liz Carlyle Pocket (Aug.)
TO TASTE TEMPTATION Elizabeth Hoyt Forever (May)
SECRETS OF SURRENDER Madeline Hunter Dell (Jun.)
THE SEDUCTION OF AN UNKNOWN LADY Samantha James Avon (Apr.)
A DANGEROUS LOVE Brenda Joyce HQN (Apr.)
SEDUCE ME AT SUNRISE Lisa Kleypas St. Martin's (Oct.)
THE BOOK OF SCANDAL Julia London Pocket (Aug.)
THE BRIDE PRICE Anne Mallory Avon (Nov.)

First Historical Romance
THE SPYMASTER'S LADY Joanna Bourne Berkley Sensation (Jan.)
THE DUKE OF SHADOWS Meredith Duran Pocket Star (Apr.)
NIGHT FALLS DARKLY Kim Lenox Signet Eclipse (Oct.)
MISTRESS OF PLEASURE Delilah Marvelle Zebra (Sep.)
PRIVATE ARRANGEMENTS Sherry Thomas Bantam (Apr.)

Historical Love & Laughter
DESPERATELY SEEKING A DUKE Celeste Bradley St. Martin's (Mar.)
HOW TO PROPOSE TO A PRINCE Kathryn Caskie Avon (Mar.)
UNDER YOUR SPELL Lois Greiman Avon (Jun.)
THE TROUBLE WITH MOONLIGHT Donna MacMeans Berkley Sensation (Jun.)

American-Set Historical Romance
GUARDED HEART Jennifer Blake Mira (Feb.)
THE LONER Geralyn Dawson HQN (May)
A REASON TO SIN Maureen McKade Berkley Sensation (Mar.)
TALL, DARK AND TEXAN Jodi Thomas Jove (Nov.)

British Isle-Set Historical Romance
A LADY'S SECRET Jo Beverley Signet (Apr.)
THE WICKED WAYS OF A DUKE Laura Lee Guhrke Avon (Jan.)
IN BED WITH THE DEVIL Lorraine Heath Avon (Jul.)
THE DECADENT DUKE Virginia Henley Signet (Nov.)
DUCHESS BY NIGHT Eloisa James Avon (Jul.)
VEILED PASSIONS Tracy MacNish Zebra (Oct.)
THE CAPTIVE HEART Bertrice Small NAL (Oct.)

Regency-Set Historical Romance
TO WED A WICKED PRINCE Jane Feather Pocket Star (Apr.)
WICKED AS SIN Jillian Hunter Ballantine (Jul.)
LET SLEEPING ROGUES LIE Sabrina Jeffries Pocket (Mar.)
TO PLEASURE A LADY Nicole Jordan Ballantine (Feb.)
A BRIDE FOR HIS CONVENIENCE Edith Layton Avon (Dec.)
NO CHOICE BUT SURRENDER Johanna Lindsey Pocket (Jul.)
THE KISS Sophia Nash Avon (Mar.)

Scotland-Set Historical Romance
SHADOW MUSIC Julie Garwood Ballantine (Jan.)
WILD ANGEL Sasha Lord Signet Eclipse (Jan.)
IN THE HIGHLANDER'S BED Cathy Maxwell Avon (Feb.)
A HIGHLANDER NEVER SURRENDERS Pamela Quinn Forever (Aug.)
BORDER WEDDING Amanda Scott Forever (Mar.)

Historical Paranormal
TEMPTED BY THE NIGHT Elizabeth Boyle Avon (Sep.)
THE WIZARD'S DAUGHTER Catherine Coulter Jove (Jan.)
IMMORTAL WARRIOR Lisa Hendrix Berkley Sensation (Nov.)
MY IMMORTAL PROTECTOR Jen Holling Pocket (Mar.)
DARK EMBRACE Brenda Joyce HQN (Sep.)
PHANTOM Lindsay Randall Love Spell (Jun.)
MYSTIC RIDER Patricia Rice Signet Eclipse (Jul.)
THE SORCERESS OF BELMAIR Bertrice Small HQN (May)

Historical Vampire/Werewolf Romance
THE BLEEDING DUSK Colleen Gleason Signet Eclipse (Feb.)
UNDER THE BLOOD RED MOON Mina Hepsen Avon A (Oct.)
COME THE NIGHT Susan Krinard HQN (Oct.)
LET THE NIGHT BEGIN Kathryn Smith Avon (Jul.)
THE RAVENING Dawn Thompson Love Spell (Feb.)

Historical Romantic Adventure
THEFT OF SHADOWS Naomi Bellis Signet Eclipse (Feb.)
HER EVERY PLEASURE Gaelen Foley Ballantine (Apr.)
THE TREASURE Iris Johansen Bantam (Dec.)
TO SEDUCE A BRIDE Nicole Jordan Ballantine (Apr.)
THE PERILS OF PLEASURE Julie Anne Long Avon (Feb.)
PRISONER OF THE FLAMES Dawn MacTavish Leisure (Nov.)
SEDUCED BY A SPY Andrea Pickens Forever (Mar.)

Sensual Historical Romance
A ROGUE'S GAME Renee Bernard Pocket (May)
DON'T TEMPT ME Sylvia Day Brava (Apr.)
DOUBLE FANTASY Cheryl Holt St. Martin's (Mar.)
EXPLOSIVE Charlotte Mede Brava (Jan.) JUST FOR HER Katherine O'Neal Brava (Jul.)

Historical Fiction
THE DARK LANTERN Gerri Brightwell Crown (Mar.)
THE WINTER ROSE Jennifer Donnelly Hyperion (Jan.)
THE TSARINA'S DAUGHTER Carolly Erickson St. Martin's (Oct.)
PHYLLIDA AND THE BROTHERHOOD OF PHILANDER Ann Herendeen Harper (May)
THE WHISKEY REBELS David Liss Random House (Oct.)

Historical Biography
TUMBLEWEED Jane Candia Coleman Leisure (Jun.)
THE OTHER QUEEN Philippa Gregory Simon and Schuster (Sep.)
THE KING'S FAVORITE Susan Holloway Scott NAL (Jul.)
THE KING'S DAUGHTER Sandra Worth Berkley (Dec.)

Historical K.I.S.S. Hero
Trevelyn Deveridge DISTRACTING THE DUCHESS Emily Bryan Leisure (Mar.)
Harry Morant HIS CAPTIVE LADY Anne Gracie Berkley Sensation (Sep.)
General Merin 22 NIGHTS Linda Winstead Jones Berkley Sensation (Dec.)
Chance Morgan MAVERICK WILD Stacey Kayne Harlequin (Jan.)
Nicholas Ramsay THE MIDNIGHT MAN Charlotte Mede Brava (Aug.)
Major Harrison THE SCANDALOUS LIFE OF A TRUE LADY Barbara Metzger Signet Eclipse (Jun.)
Wyatt Yarbro THE RUSTLER Linda Lael Miller HQN (Oct.)
Gabriel MacBraedon THE NIGHT BEFORE THE WEDDING Debra Mullins Avon (Feb.)

Historical Romantic Mystery/Gothic
SEDUCTION BECOMES HER Shirlee Busbee Zebra (Jul.)
DARK TEMPTATION Allison Chase Signet Eclipse (Nov.)
CONFESSIONS AT MIDNIGHT Jacquie D'Alessandro Avon (Jan.)
AFTER THE KISS Suzanne Enoch Avon (Jul.)
WICKED INTENSIONS Lydia Joyce Signet Eclipse (Dec.)
WHERE THE HEART LEADS Stephanie Laurens Morrow (Feb.)
THE SEDUCTION OF THE CRIMSON ROSE Lauren Willig Dutton (Feb.)

Romantic Times 2008 Reviewers Choice Awards Nominees - Career Acheivement Nominees

2008-12-09T08:33:00.000-08:00

CareerAchievement Nominees

HISTORICAL ROMANCE
Victoria Alexander
Sabrina Jeffries
Anne Mallory
Patricia Rice

HISTORICAL STORYTELLER OF THE YEAR
Celeste Bradley
Carol Finch
Susan Johnson
Paula Quinn

INNOVATIVE HISTORICAL ROMANCE
Lois Greiman
Lorraine Heath
Elizabeth Hoyt
Robin Schone

SERIES ROMANCE
Roz Denny Fox
Jillian Hart
Emilie Rose
Debra Salonen

SERIES ROMANTIC SUSPENSE
Jessica Andersen
Linda Castillo
Linda Conrad
Julie Miller
Joanna Wayne

SERIES ROMANTIC ADVENTURE
Kylie Brant
Kathleen Creighton
Kay David
Sylvie Kurtz
Marilyn Pappano

SERIES ROMANCE LOVE & LAUGHTER
Susan Crosby
Lucy Gordon
Marion Lennox
Molly O'Keefe
Melanie Schuster

SERIES STORYTELLER OF THE YEAR
Leanne Banks
Jean Brashear
Jackie Braun
K.N./Ken Casper
Eve Gaddy

CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
Carly Phillips
Christie Ridgway
Vicki Lewis Thompson
Sherryl Woods

PARANORMAL ROMANCE
C.T. Adams & Cathy Clamp
Nina Bangs
P.C. Cast
Katie MacAlister

URBAN FANTASY
Keri Arthur
Simon R. Green
Charlaine Harris
Kim Harrison

WOMEN'S FICTION
Barbara Taylor Bradford
Joy Fielding
Lorna Landvik
Nicholas Sparks

ROMANTIC SUSPENSE
Cherry Adair
Heather Graham
Tara Janzen
Carla Neggers

MYSTERY SERIES
Laura Childs
Joanne Fluke
Elizabeth Peters
Kate Wilhelm

FEMALE SLEUTH
Nevada Barr
Carolyn Hart
Alex Kava
Nancy Martin

SUSPENSE/THRILLER
Kay Hooper
J.D. Robb
James Rollins
Karen Rose

INSPIRATIONAL
Hannah Alexander
Terri Blackstock
Beverly Lewis
Lori Wick

AFRICAN-AMERICAN
A.C. Arthur
Leslie Esdaile
Melanie Schuster
Janice Sims
Jacquelin Thomas

Thinking Like a Writer

2008-11-17T14:18:00.000-08:00

I had this epiphany today. I realized I have a habit of pulling myself out of a situation and assessing it as if I were a narrator. Of course, I spend much of my life narrating situations. In a big box store this morning, I watched a manager and his female underling walk the aisles. I listened as the manager explained why some items on a nearby shelf shouldn't be there. I watched the facial expressions of the woman, assessed how she felt about her boss, guessed at what she was thinking. By time I moved on, I had written an entire scenario for them in my head.
Then later at the dentist office as I waited for my daughter to have her teeth cleaned, I observed a family of three in the waiting room - mother, son and daughter - as they argued over who hadn't walked the dog that morning. I quickly summed up the relationship between the siblings, the parenting skills of the mother, as well as her marital situation.
When I stopped and laughed to myself at what I was doing, I realized it was something I've been doing for years. I fill in all the blanks of the countless people I encounter in the course of a day. I write their back stories!
Sure, some folks might characterize my behavior as a little weird, a bit on the intrusive side or even presumptuous, but writers get it. We don't find it strange when we hear someone say their characters have conversations in their head. We don't even lift an eyebrow when one of us discuss a villain as if he or she is a living, breathing person. Because to us, they are living and breathing. They are our creation, the flowers we've coaxed from the fertile soil of our imagination.
So rejoice if you find yourself the moderator between the voices in your head. Celebrate if you fill in the details of scenarios you observe amongst strangers. You're not crazy. You're just thinking like a writer.

ROMANCE NOVEL CONTEST

2008-11-10T09:12:00.000-08:00

"Men In Uniform" Romance Novel Contest with NAL Publishing editor, Becky Vinter

Hunky cops, firemen, FBI Agents, etc...historical, paranormal, contemporary, etc....it’s all good! :

::::Contest Rules:::
Entry Deadline: entries will be accepted January 3, 2009 -- February 28, 2009
Entry Length: 1000 word excerpt (computer count). Entries over 1000 words will be disqualified. This is a novel length (80k - 100k) contest. Entry length of the excerpt is 1000 words (computer count). Entries over 1000 words will be disqualified. Excerpt can be any part of the story as long as it follows the above theme. Excerpt must be from a new, not yet published, manuscript.

Heat Level: Steamy!

::::Contest Prizes::::
Top 10 entries will be read by NAL editor, Becky Vinter Entry with the most reader votes will be named "Reader's Choice" Becky Vinter will pick one entry to be named "Editor's Choice"

For more information see our website http://www.manicreaders.com/index.cfm?disp=authorContest

***permission to forward granted***

Lessons on Characterization

2008-10-20T07:18:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure recently to attend a workshop given by the great Alicia Rasley - author, editor and educator. She presented a program about using point of view to sharpen characterization and I learned a lot from it.
One thing that really stood out in mind dealt with how you write emotion into a story. Rather than say what the character's feelings are head on, come in through the side door. In other words, instead of writing that the deserted husband misses his wife, have him choke up when he realizes he's made enough coffee for two, or have him sniff the clothes she left behind and catch a whiff of her perfume. This made so much sense because it lets the reader experience the anguish and relate to the experience. Rather than TELLING them what the emotions are, it SHOWS them.
If you ever have the opportunity to attend one of Alicia's workshops, I'd highly recommend attending. You won't regret it.

Kick A$$ Characters by Authors Who Know How to Kick A$$

2008-09-10T00:11:00.000-07:00

New Release Today

2008-08-08T06:59:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to announce the release of my latest book from The Wild Rose Press,

Falling Star.

Nearly broke and unable to find work, Hollywood has-been Jolie Farnsworth is desperate to feel loved and appreciated. Her husband, a former rock star hopes to ride Jolie's star back to the top--even if it means destroying her in the process.
Producer Dante Ebersol is under the gun to create a top-rated reality show and portray Jolie as a train wreck. When he starts falling in love with her, his plans crumble, threatening to end the career he's worked for his entire life.

Get it today at The Wild Rose Press

A Diamond at Midnight--OUT NOW

2008-08-06T10:30:00.001-07:00

My first ever paranormal has just been released! Yay!

A Diamond at Midnight
by Anne Rainey
The Wild Rose Press
$3.00
59 pages
Vampire romance, hot

BUY HERE

Blurb:
Diamonique’s life is changed forever when she stumbles across Cain Reed on a dark, lonely New York street. With a single bite, she’s given immortality and shown unimaginable pleasure. But before she can explore eternal love his betrayal tears them apart.

One hundred years later, Cain is back to save her from a dark enemy. Rafael, the depraved leader of The Dominion, will stop at nothing to settle an ancient score between him and Cain. Caught in the middle, Diamonique will need to swallow her pride and rely on Cain if she’s to survive. But is she handing her trust over to the right immortal or is she merely trading one evil for another?

Excerpt:

The music changed once again, the tempo faster, the romantic tune gone, but the mood was still there. She was still as edgy, still as ready, and the stranger was still standing in front of her, staring at her, waiting for her to surrender.

Diamonique glided a step closer, bringing their bodies into contact. She could smell his natural masculine scent. For the first time, she realized what it was about a man that made women lose their heads. That smell, that all too enthralling maleness. It made her long to run her tongue over his beautiful full lips.

Rising up on her tiptoes, she took a taste. Initiating the first contact gave her a sense of feminine power. He kept his hands at his sides, as if not sure how to respond. As her fingers went to his hair, his arms closed around her in a tight embrace. Diamonique grabbed handfuls of dark silk and pressed her lips to his, she was eager to taste him. She coaxed his lips apart with her tongue and delved inside. She angled her head, deepening the kiss and felt the sudden change in him. He’d had enough of standing and doing nothing. When she was ready to pull back, the room spun. She’d gone too long without blood. Her cells were shriveling with each second that passed, her mind turned to mush, as she tried to concentrate on the male in her arms. She wanted to kick herself for using her power of flight when she was already so weak. It made her vulnerable. Not since Cain had she felt this way.

Diamonique longed to feel this man succumb to her lips at his throat. She used her voice like a weapon, softly luring him outside, away from the revelry. To her shock, he smiled and took her by the hand as if unaffected by the hypnotic notes. Suddenly, he was the one in control as he steered her down the alley behind the nightclub, beyond the eyes of the curious.

She tuned out the smells, the stench of the trash that hugged every crevice and seemed to cling to her skin like a sickening glove. She frowned as she tried to concentrate, but all she received for her efforts was a headache and no answer as to why she was letting him take the lead.

Shaking off her lethargy, Diamonique moved in front of him and let him look his fill, allowed his eyes to travel the length of her body. His gaze took in the flow of the silky dress, breasts that threatened to spill out of the scoop neckline, and the black spiked heels encrusted with the diamonds that were her namesake. He watched as she moved her legs apart and let the silk fall away from one calf, the slit reaching clear to her waistline. His eyes heated instantly. His heart beat loud in her ears, his blood pumping hard.

Beckoning her to drink.

Pleading for Diamonique to sate herself with this stranger.

She lifted her hand to the back of his neck and pulled him down, then silently slipped inside his mind, reading his thoughts easily. He was a flurry of sexual lust. He ached to sink his heavy length inside her body. Nothing seemed to matter to him except the swell of hip that protruded from the open dress.

Diamonique felt his hands there, even as her teeth scored his soft skin. His musky male scent bombarded her senses, as she tasted his sweet blood. Only once before had she tasted such nectar. Before she could explore the remembrance, his strong capable hands massaged the junction of her thighs. Her tongue continued to tease the blood from his willing veins, each in their own way fulfilling their lust. She let the moment drag out, longer than ever before. She loved his strong, capable hands massaging where she needed him the most. Even as her tongue continued to lap sweet sustenance, Diamonique felt her own climax mounting.

Then he spoke.

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

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

It was Cain!

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

She wrenched out of his arms.

“You were projecting false thoughts,” she accused, “so I wouldn’t know it was you.”

She readied herself for battle. But he only stood there, eyes full of laughter as if mocking her. His grin triggered Diamonique’s rage as his gaze traveled over her body with a possessiveness he had no right to.

Her blood craving withered.

PAR FOR THE COURSE by Jenna Bayley-Burke

2008-07-28T19:29:00.001-07:00

Magazine columnist Jillian Welch has one assignment to show her readers the golf course is the news single’s bar, and show an old flame all the ways she’s changed. Unless she hasn’t changed at all…

Warning: Fore! This title contains explicit sex, and a love story hazardous to your hankie supply. Oh, and exploding toads.

PAR FOR THE COURSE

by Jenna Bayley-Burke

Samhain Website excerpt

Click here for a special blog-only excerpt!

Not going to the RWA Conference?

2008-07-14T00:22:00.000-07:00

The Romance Divas annual Not Going to Conference Conference will make you feel a bit less deprived! Amazing workshops, a star-studded guest list and awesome giveaways, all on the Diva forum! Don't miss it!

Here's a bit of a schedule update for the Q&As and Workshops...

Wednesday, July 30

Paula Guran, Editor, Juno Books
Q&A on Creating Kick a** Heroines

Laurie Rauch, Editor, Samhain Publishing
Workshop on What Happens After the Contract (aka Editors are People Too!)*

Thursday July 31

Joyce Hart, Hartline Literary
Q&A on Inspirational Romance Stories and the Inspy Market

Sandra Schwab, Historical Romance Author
Workshop on Historical Accuracy and Anachronisms

Friday, August 1

Yolanda Sfetsos, Author of Guarded by Stone
Q&A on Paranormal and Urban Fantasy World Building

Katie MacIver, KatieDidDesign
Workshop on Website Design and Color Selection

Saturday, August 2

Joey W. Hill, Erotica Author
Workshop on Plotting Erotica and Erotic Romance

Rhonda Stapleton, Editor and Author
Workshop on Style and Voice

Excited yet?

How about if I list some door prizes?

What Gwen said" mug donated by Gwen Hayes
3-chapter critique of a YA by Simon Pulse author Rhonda Stapleton
3-chapter critique of a YA, chick lit, or rom com by Golden Heart Finalist Amanda Brice
An ebook of your choice from Nell Dixon's backlist
An ebook of either Second Sight (paranormal romance) or Dragons' Choice (fantasy romance - dragon-shifters) from Debbie Mumford
Ten dollar Amazon gift certificate from Jodi Henley
Lush stuff from Seeley deBorne
e-book copy of Chasing Shadows from Erin Richards
Paperback copy of Iron Horse Rider OR Smiling Eyes from Adelle Laudan
Book thongs from Angeleque Ford
3 chapter critique from Sela Carsen
winner's choice of ebook copy of "Not Quite Dead" or "Heart of the Sea" by Sela Carson
e-book copy of HEATWAVE by Eden Bradley
e-book copy of BREAKING SKYE by Eden Bradley
a box of goodies, trade and paperbacks, bath products candles, etc... All for a fun and relaxing home spa day treat. courtesy of The Midnight Moon Cafe
1 download each of Natasha Moore's Samhain books, The Ride of Her LIfe and The Passion-Minded Professor
a copy of "Painted Soul" by Mary Quast
e-book copy of HER CINDERELLA COMPLEX by Jenna Bayley-Burke - Samhain
e-book copy of PAR FOR THE COURSE by Jenna Bayley-Burke - Samhain
e-book copy of FOUND by Jenna Bayley-Burke - Wild Rose Press
e-book copy of NIGHT OF INSPIRATION by Jenna Allen - Phaze
e-book copy of ON AGAIN by Jenna Allen - Phaze
$10 gc to Amazon from Kendal Corbitt
ebook Vampire Oracle: Harmony by MG Braden

Plus a lovely bar of wonderful Chagrin Valley hand made soap, Caramel Pralines jar candle, handmade jewelry, Tarot readings, a Lush box for European Divas/Dudes, a $10 fictionwise gc and much more!

Now in Print!

2008-07-06T13:05:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited because my second book was just released in print! Compromising Positions is very different from my first release, The Kitten Club. CP is lighter in tone and has loads of humor. Here's the blurb:
Meet Crystal, Patsy and Maureen – three friends in their forties trying to run the obstacle course of mid-life.
Crystal thinks she has the perfect marriage until she starts fantasizing about a handsome coworker. But when she suspects her husband is having more than fantasies about another woman, she digs in her heels and fights for what’s hers.
Patsy discovers her Neanderthal husband Bud having sex with his bowling buddy and wearing women’s underwear. When Bud tries to take more than his fair share in the divorce, Patsy sets out to humiliate him into submission.
Maureen has enough trouble trying to survive life with her rebellious teen-aged daughter Rhianna. When she starts dating the teacher Rhianna has a secret crush on, the fur flies.

Hop over to my website and check out my July contest. I love to give things away!

2008-06-25T08:44:00.001-07:00

Tasting Candy by Anne Rainey

ISBN: 978-1-60504-053-0

Length: Novella

Price: $3.50

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Red Hot!

Publication Date: June 24, 2008

Blurb:

Lust was the lure, Candy was the reward.Walking around with a raging hard-on isn’t Blade Vaughn’s idea of a good time. He’s hungry for sex and there’s only one woman on his menu: Candice Warner. When Blade witnesses the shy beauty go into a panic over a harmless encounter, he’s more determined than ever to prove that sex with him is just the therapy she needs.

Candice is used to being afraid of her own shadow, but when she goes all nutso in front of Blade, she’s beyond mortified. She wants him to see her as an equal, and as a woman. It’s time she got over her past trauma and started living again.But trust is hard to come by when her only experience with men has left her heart in pieces.

Warning, this title contains the following: Hot, steamy, explicit sex. Oral sex. Sex in public places. Oh, and sex in the shower.

BUY NOW

After Dark Lounge!

2008-05-23T16:40:00.001-07:00

Readers:
Do you love to talk about books, drool over cute hunks and chat about your favorite authors?
Come on over to the After Dark Lounge and have some fun with us!

Authors:
If you're looking for a place to connect with readers and share tips on writing and publishing with your fellow authors,
or even promote your own books, then join us!

AFTER DARK LOUNGE

The Emperor--in PRINT!

2008-05-14T08:52:00.001-07:00

My first print is now available! WooHoo!
and isn't this a gorgeous cover? :-)

Purchase at Amazon or Borders or Target

Soon Barnes and Noble and Books A Million

Product Description:
Secrets Bared by Anne Rainey
World-renowned sculptor Gideon Adrian has had his fair share of beautiful women, but when he meets prim and proper Lori Fontaine, he's drawn to her like none other. He'll do anything to possess the shy beauty. But enticing her to submit will be a far tougher challenge than he expected.

Trenton's Terms by Kelley Nyrae From the first time Trenton Stone sets eyes on Sidney Clark while out of town on business he knows he has to have her. He'll do whatever it takes even show up in her hometown to lay it all out for her. He wants Sidney and Trenton Stone always gets what he wants.

Product Details:
Paperback: 224 pages
Publisher: Tease Publishing LLC (April 30, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1934678562
Price: $12.99
Genre: Erotic Contemporary Romance

Review for Secrets Bared:
5 pixies, Dark Angel Reviews
"SECRETS BARED by Anne Rainey is one hot read. This book hooked me from the first page and would not let go. Ms. Rainey is a wonderful writer with an awesome imagination. Her characters are someone you can relate to, and her erotic scenes are seriously smoking hot."

Review for Trenton's Terms:
5 pixies, Dark Angel Reviews
"TRENTON’S TERMS by Kelley Nyrae is a fantastic read. I was hooked from the first page and found myself devouring this book in a short time. Ms. Nyrae has a unique way of making the characters come to life right in front of your eyes."

3 NEW Novellas by Anne Rainey!

2008-05-06T12:34:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I posted here, but I wanted to hop on and tell you all about a few new SCORCHERS I've got available!

Forbidden Fruit is a #3 Red Sage Publishing BESTSELLER!

Blurb:
Veterinarian assistant, Ava Sweet has lusted after bad boy Luke McGiffin since high school and she's tired of him treating her like a kid sister. It's time to show the hunky roofer her feminine side.

The plan: let Jen, her best friend, give her a makeover, then tempt Luke right out of his sexy jeans. But can Ava handle a man with such strong appetites or is she in over her head?

BUY HERE Excerpt

Review:
5 angels and a recommended read--Fallen Angel Reviews
"Luke McGiffin is h-o-t, and the combination of him and Ava…well, let's just say I had to keep wiping my glasses free from the steam which collected as I was reading! Ms. Rainey also does an outstanding job of allowing us entrance into Luke's thoughts, and it's very quickly obvious that once he has had her, there will be no turning back. Forbidden Fruit is the second book by Anne Rainey I have had the pleasure of reading and reviewing, and I will eagerly grab the next one I see."

_________________________________________

The Emberor: Secrets Bared is a #1 Tease Publishing BESTSELLER!

this story will also be available in PRINT in July!

Blurb:
Lori Fontaine is still angry that her ex-fiancé has declared her frigid. Ever the good girl, she's more than ready to toss caution to the wind and liven up her sex life. She's determined to prove that she can be just as passionate as the next woman. Lori gets her chance when she meets hunky sculptor Gideon Adrian. He's wild, demanding, and everything she normally steers clear of. So, of course he's perfect!

Gideon's enhanced mental abilities have made his erotic statues a huge success. Being able to tap into the secret desires of his models has been one hell of an advantage. But when he meets Lori, he's drawn to her like no one else. On the surface, she's a prim and proper high school English teacher, but underneath, she's a naughty temptress. Gideon aches to open Lori up to the enticing world of sexual pleasures, but what will she do when she learns that he's been tuned into her every thought?
Buy Here Excerpt

Review:
4 cups, Coffee Time Romance
"I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Rainey’s story because honestly, who does not love when a woman can bring a guy to his knees with just a thought?"—Lototy, Coffee Time Romance
Read full review HERE

_________________________________________

A Samhain Publishing #1 BESTSELLER!

Blurb:

Taking friendship to a whole new level...

Lacey Vaughn has just caught her boyfriend having his nether parts washed by her alleged friend. She's tired of being dumped on by the opposite sex and it's clear she needs help in the ways of seduction. Over cappuccinos, Lacey shares her worries with her dearest friend, Nick Stone. Being the good friend that Nick is, he offers to give Lacey a few pointers at mattress calisthenics. But from Nick's first touch, Lacey begins to see things in her good buddy that she'd never noticed before. Soon, Lacey forgets all about lessons. Now, all she wants is more of Nick.

BUY HERE Excerpt

Review:

4 Stars Romantic Times BOOKreviews:
:“This entertaining tale uses the somewhat familiar premise of best friends who move warily into becoming lovers. But this hot and sexy romp is a delight as this couple discovers you don't have to choose between being just friends or lovers. The best is being both. There are also several intriguing peripheral characters that seem destined for a story of their own. One can only hope!”-- Sandra Garcia-Myers--4 stars Romantic Times

_________________________________________

Free Online Writing Workshop

2008-03-26T19:31:00.001-07:00

Using Birth Order to Create Compelling Characters with Abby Gaines

"In this workshop, we’ll look at how birth order affects the adult personality of your characters—what strengths and weaknesses they’ll have. A youngest-son hero might have been a spoiled brat when he was a kid, but now he’s charming, people-oriented, and he has a completely different set of problems from his domineering oldest brother. Then there’s the complex, secretive but extremely loyal middle child...."

Purple Prose - Pros and Cons

2008-03-15T07:48:00.000-07:00

I've been working on a romantica novella lately and I often have to stop during the love scenes to contemplate my language choices. Should I use flowery purple prose or clinical terms? How about raunchy ones? For me, this all depends on whose head I'm in. Is the scene written in an innocent heroine's POV? Or is it the alpha male tough guy? Or perhaps the hero or heroine is somewhere in between (as is usually the case).

But I wonder what readers prefer. Is it too jarring to call a body part something raunchy? Is less detail spelled out better? Do you prefer the bedroom door closed all together or just cracked open a bit? Personally, when I read a sex scene I don't want a play by play, but a little detail, a few hints at what's going on. I'd rather use my imagination to fill in the blanks.

Truly purple prose went out with big eighties hair, but I sometimes like it, particularly in historicals.

What about you? How do you like your love scenes?

Read An E-Book Week, March 9-15, 2008

2008-03-03T08:53:00.000-08:00

"Carbon Footprint"

"Environmentally Friendly"

"Green"

Have you considered these words when it comes to your reading material? We're encouraged to buy, use and dispose with the environment in mind. While it's easy to recognize the negative impact of excess packaging and chemical content in many of the products we purchase, it's not so easy when it comes to books, magazines and newspapers.

We do have alternatives other than paper for our reading material. Many books, newspapers and magazines are created electronically. No trees are cut to produce them. No ink is used to put the words on the page. No fossil fue lis used to run presses or trucks to move the books around the country. Heated storage facilities are not required to warehouse e-books as they remain within your computer.

March 9-15th, 2008 is Read An E-Book Week. The week is set aside to educate consumers about reading electronic books and other reading material. E-books are delivered to the end user electronically. They are read on devices such as the new Sony portable reader or Amazon's Kindle. They are destroyed with the push of a delete button, without ever taking up room in a landfill.

It takes 24 trees to produce a ton of printing paper, the type normally used for books, 12 trees are harvested for a ton of newsprint. Up to 35% of books printed for consumers (down from nearly 60% several years ago) are never read. They are used for window dressing in book stores, and eventually returned to the publisher for disposal in landfills. Given that a mature tree can produce as much oxygen in a season as 10 people inhale in a year, a serious alternative to paper books, magazines and newspapers needs to be considered. That alternative is e-books.

Before purchasing your next paper book, magazine or newspaper, consider your carbon footprint commitment. Read electronically. Read An E-Book Week, March 9-15, 2008. For more information please visit www.domokos.com/readebookweek.html

Two Releases and An Epiphany

2008-03-01T09:28:00.000-08:00

This is a busy few days for me. I have two erotic romance short stories being released from The Wilder Rose Press. Desert of Desire and Blackout are fun, hot reads. It's really exciting to have two so close together! But I had an even more exciting thing happen the other night. Well - it's exciting if you're a writer. I had a huge epiphany about my WIP. You see, I was trying to figure out my hero's inner conflict - a conflict that would nicely compliment the heroine's. As I drove home from dropping my daughter at Girl Scouts, I nearly drove off the road. A flashing light bulb surely appeared over my head. His conflict came to me and so perfectly mirrored the heroine's and fit with the book title, that I almost cried with joy. Sometimes it happens like that - the answer just comes to me at the strangest moment.

What about you? Have you ever gotten such a terrific story idea or filled in the missing puzzle piece that made the whole picture gel?

HER CINDERELLA COMPLEX by Jenna Bayley-Burke

2008-02-19T21:34:00.000-08:00

She’s got the man—and the wedding—of her dreams. If only love were part of the fantasy.

Heather Tindall is temping as a personal assistant until her dream job as an event planner comes along. Worse, her new boss has a penchant of running off new assistants before lunch. Heather’s not about to let her spotless employment record be ruined by a real estate mogul with an attitude problem, no matter how well he fills out a suit.

At first Curtis can’t believe the nerve of the woman who refuses his order to leave. Six months into their working relationship, her dedication still manages to surprise him. But her best efforts to protect his personal life can’t keep the press from seeing him as anything more than a playboy. Then it dawns on him that the perfect solution is right under his appointment book—Heather.
Swept off her kitten heels, Heather can’t help but accept the proposal of the man with whom she’s fallen in love. She hopes that in time he’ll come to feel something for her.

Curtis is determined not to feel anything, for anyone, ever. He’ll do anything Heather wants—but he’s not going to fall in love with her.

Except that will never do for a girl with a Cinderella Complex…

Read An Excerpt Online

Buy it today from My Bookstore and More

Thursday 13 :: Romance Divas 2nd Annual EBook Challenge

2008-02-14T18:59:00.000-08:00

SOPHIE'S FIREMAN by Tina Bendoni (sweet contemporary)
NOT FOR ME by LK Campbell (sensual contemporary)
Truth Über Alles by Christine Olinger (YA)
RAINY DAYS AND CAFES by Diana Castilleja (sweet contemporary)
SWEET TEMPTATIONS by Traci Flowers (steamy)
Timeless Encounter by Adelle Laudan (Sensual Contemporary)
Submit To Love by Evelyn le Bec (Caliente Contemporary)
OFFICE TEMPTATION by April Morelock (Caliente Contemporary)
143 by Kathleen Oxley (Sweet Contemporary)
Almost by Chance by Kimberly Menozzi (Sweet Contemporary)
629 Miles To Love by Fae Sutherland and Marguerite Labbe (Caliente M/M Contemporary)
His Eyes by Eaton Bennett (Sensual Contemporary)
Balanced Blade by Kim Rees (Sensual SF Romance)

And that is just the first 13! Here's a list of all the free romance short stories ::

http://www.romancedivas.com/ebook2008.html

SNEAK PEAK -- For Kicks by Jenna Bayley-Burke

2008-02-12T09:15:00.001-08:00

For Kicks isn't scheduled to be released until March 1st...but...you can snag it now on the publishers website in paperback or ebook! It won't be on the main sites (Amazon, Fictionwise) until the release date, but if you just can't wait...

Author: Jenna Bayley-Burke

ISBN: 978-0-9793252-7-4

$14.95 paperback

$6.00 Ebook (PDF)

He’s about to show her ...

On the management fast-track, Breeze Cohen has no time for family. No interest in love. No inclination toward romance, lust, dating—or anything that doesn’t include retail business strategy and cornerstone client Nitrous’ most important product launch ever. No way is she going to let a live-for-the-moment, life-is-only-about-fun guy like Logan Chandler tarnish her professional reputation and derail her career.

... his plan for her isn’t just for kicks.

Recovered from a near-fatal bus accident, Logan has successfully moved from professional athlete to key player for Nitrous Kicks athletic shoes. Only one woman is capable of managing his project the right way, but the proper kind of management will take time together. And that’s exactly what Logan Chandler is counting on to help him get close to her heart and stay close—if he can ever catch up with her.

Reviews:

"This story served as a helpful reminder to me to cherish the moments I have each day with family and friends, living with the knowledge that I might not have them with me in the next moment. The dialogue and writing are quick, short and snappy... It is a wonderful read."Long & Short Reviews

"I found For Kicks by Jenna Bayley-Burke to be a charming and lively read about two of the most interesting and engaging characters I've read about in a very long time."Kasey's View

"Jenna Bayley-Burke brings readers a hot and sensual romance full of the flavor of love – a little spicy, a little sweet, and very fulfilling." Romance Divas

Read an excerpt

February is for Romance

2008-02-01T17:24:00.000-08:00

It's that time again! Love is in the air and Valentine cards line the shelves at the card shops. Every year my DH tries to outdo himself in the Romance department. Being married to a romance author, he has his work cut out for him. He's done things like draw a huge heart in the driveway in sidewalk chalk, and hire a limmousine to take us to the ballet. His soul is romantic and yes - I know how lucky that makes me. But many of my friends see the whole Valentine's Day thing as the guy's responsibility. So, this year I'm going to do something special for my guy. I have no idea what yet. Any ideas? I'm open to suggestions.

What about you? What romantic notions do you have up your sleeve? What do you hope your significant other does for you on this highest holiday of love?

Can You Creat Under Pressure!

2008-01-22T12:23:00.000-08:00

I'm under a tight deadline right now and something amazing is happening - I am writing a huge volume of words and I actually like what I've written! I never saw myself as someone who works well under pressure, so this comes as a huge surprise. I always thought, particularly with my writing that working under a deadline would stifle my creativity. Not so. What about you? Do you prefer to write as you want, when you want? Or do you prefer nail-biting pressure?

On another note, please check out my Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Semi-final entry, A Little Help From my Friends at:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0011ZCARY

It's a first chapter free download. You can read it and post a review if you like. There are also many other chapters from all the other semi-finalist available for free. So head over to Amazon and check it out!

Writing Workshops

2008-01-21T08:48:00.000-08:00

JANUARY 20-24
POLISHING A MANUSCRIPT FOR SUBMISSION
Get your manuscript looking sparkly fab and ready for submission to agents and editors. Gemma will go over common writing issues, mistakes and how to fix them, format and submission polices, and ways to catch an editor or agent's eye and stand out from the slush piles. If you've got a manuscript finished (or even just started!) come learn simple ways to push it from good to polished and published!

http://www.gemmahalliday.com/

Sophia Shaw is hosting a 3-day workshop on RD in the Class in Session forum from Jan 23 to 25. She's going to be discussing character development, so please bring all your questions!!

Visit her website at http://www.sophiashaw.com/ to learn more about her and her books!

A second helping of Dreams & Desires

2008-01-15T16:23:00.001-08:00

It is almost time for the release of the second volume of the Dreams & Desires anthology - where all proceeds go to a women's shelter. This year's line-up is fantastic!

C.T. Adams & Cathy Clamp. Jenna Bayley-Burke. Amanda Brice.
Shannon Canard. Sela Carsen. Rachelle Chase.
M.E. Ellis. Jenny Gardiner. Gemma Halliday.
Candace Havens. Zinnia Hope. Babe King. Susan Lyons.
Sarah Salway. Rhonda Stapleton. Bebe Thomas.
Emily Veinglory. Lois Winston. Shaunna Wolf

In conjunction with the February release of the charity anthology Dreams & Desires Vol.2 , Gemma Halliday is running an online Valentine’s Day Bachelor Auction, auctioning off a virtual date with one of 5 drooling hot romance cover models. All the proceeds from the auction go to help victims of domestic violence, so you can win a hot hunk for yourself while also supporting a great cause. Bidding is now open, so please feel free to come take a look at the man candy up for grabs!! http://www.gemmahalliday.com/contests

For Valentine's Day...

2008-01-10T08:43:00.001-08:00

Harlequin has a Special Treat website with free reads, games, and book info.

You can even send an e-Valentine. Check it out!

2008 To-Be-Read Challenge

2008-01-09T08:44:00.000-08:00

This could help Dara and the rest of us with our resolution to read ::
** Pick 12 books - one for each month of 2008 - that you've been wanting to read (that have been on your "To Be Read" list) for 6 months or longer, but haven't gotten around to.
** OPTIONAL: Create a list of 12 "Alternates" (books you could substitute for your challenge books, given that a particular one doesn't grab you at the time)
** Then, starting January 1, 2008, read one of these books from your list each month, ending December 31, 2008. :o)

TBR 2008

Driving Him Wild - Julie Cohen
One Night Before Marriage - Anne Oliver
The Rancher's Rules - Lucy Monroe
Return of the Rebel (At The Billionaire's Bidding) - Trish Wylie
Getting Down To Business - Ally Blake
Behind the Scenes - Trish Jensen
The Ex-Girlfriends' Club - Rhonda Nelson
Call Me Wicked - Jamie Sobrato
One Night Standards - Cathy Yardley
Innuendo - Crystal Green
Risking It All - Stephanie Tyler
Closer... - Jo Leigh

Alternates

Dream Job, Hot Boss - Robyn Grady
Bedded by Arrangement - Natalie Anderson
The Mile-High Club - Heidi Rice
~~My Tall, Dark Greek Boss - Anna Cleary~~
One Night, One Baby - Kate Hardy
The Marriage Experiment - Catherine Spencer
The Married Mistress - Kate Walker
The Ruthless Marriage Bid - Elizabeth Power
~~The Millionaire's Marriage Claim - Lindsay Armstrong~~
~~The Unexpected Pregnancy - Catherine George~~
A Wedding In Paris - Bretton, Ferrarella, Myers
Getting Real - Thompson, Leto, LaBrecque

Resolve to Read

2008-01-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

With 2008 still in its diapers, I am concentrating on formulating my resolution strategies. Not the resolutions themselves - I did that in December. I am working on the implementation phase. Trying to figure out how exactly I will make my goals a reality.
Every goal has steps that take you toward it - ie: If your goal is to lose weight, those steps would be eat less, exercise more, etc.
My professional goal for this year is to be a better, more productive writer. The steps in my staircase? Read up on and take classes in self-editing, stop procrastinating by checking my email every hour, and the most fun step - READ MORE BOOKS. Now, being an author, you'd think I read plenty, but it's not enough. I read in bed before I go to sleep and more often than not, I start nodding off within an hour. So, no more half-asleep reading. As decadent as it seems, I am going to read during the day for a set period of time - every day. I exercise nearly every day. So why not exercise my brain a bit more. It's an investment in my career, after all. That's a step I will love.
So, what about you? What steps are you taking that are thoroughly enjoyable?

FREE Harlequin eBooks!

2007-12-31T19:51:00.000-08:00

Go to Harlequin every day until January 1st and download a FREE ebook from Harlequin. Can’t beat that!
<-New Years Eve

New Years Day->

2007-12-28T06:18:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Kelley's new baby girl! Congratulations, Kelley!

Thursday 13 :: 13 ways people have found Romance Rules

2007-12-20T21:38:00.000-08:00

what makes a woman a heroine

karyna darosa

cats have them dogs don't

rules for writing a harlequin romance

romance writers ups downs

sexiest kisses

romance novel rules

romance why are heroines virgins

is it safe to eat pizza while pregnant?

office romance rules

cats solitary nature

woman with strong forearms

sexiest man 2007

For some of those who found us, I am sure we were a help...but do we really talk about cats that much?

Oh yeah...

2007-12-19T09:22:00.001-08:00

I guess I had better get to writing then!

Hugs - Jenna

Holiday Nostalgia

2007-12-17T02:00:00.000-08:00

Do the holidays bring out your romantic side? Make you want to curl up with your honey beside a roaring fire while Nat King Cole croons about making it a merry Christmas?

Well, being Jewish, that's never been me! But since DH is Christian, we do both Hanukkah and Christmas. Now that Hanukkah is over, we take down all the blue and white decor in favor of the green and red stuff.

Today was the day we bought the tree and pulled out the box full of ornaments. As the kids hung faded hand made photo frames and glass balls filled with ten-year-old popcorn on the tree, I found the whole experience was bringing out my nostalgic nature. I remember when my children came home from school with each ornament, when friends presented me with various trimmings that reminded them of me. It was a veritable trip down memory lane. And I realized that's what all those warm and fuzzy holiday books do to us. They try to spark some remembrance in each of us. I guess that's why we keep going back for more.

Are you a holiday romance lover? Do you watch those same five movies that tickle your nostalgia bone? Do you seek out holiday-themed novels? Or do you steer clear of the whole thing?

Its in his kiss

2007-12-11T21:02:00.000-08:00

I think this is one of the sexiest kisses I've ever seen. I'm big on kisses. I love watching and reading a good kiss. Kissing is one of the most intimate actions you can do with another person. It shows emotions and leads to so much more. I can still remember the first kiss I shared with my husband, the way it felt. It was one of the first moments that I realized how much he meant to me.

This kiss is how I want to write. I think it shows how much they're attracted to each other. Its sexy, passionate, fun. I think this is one hot kiss!

Are you big on kissing? Do you have a favorite type of sexy or intimate scene you like to read or write?

INSTANT SEDUCTION

2007-12-05T12:40:00.000-08:00

A brand new writing competition from the world’s best-selling romance series is about to hit the blogosphere!

It’s an exciting time for Harlequin Presents: from January 2008, there will be 12 of our intensely passionate romances available every month (some of them from the line I write for, Modern Heat!). And with this increase of titles comes a great opportunity for aspiring authors – we will be looking to buy more books for publication!

The old saying goes that first impressions are lasting impressions – and when it comes to reading a Harlequin Presents, that certainly holds true. If the first chapter doesn’t immediately grip the reader with its pace, passion and intensity, then she won’t continue to turn the pages.

So Presents is inviting unpublished writers to show us how they can grab the attention of our readership with first chapters that really sizzle. The INSTANT SEDUCTION competition offers prizes that are chances of a lifetime for the lucky winner and runners-up:

*First prize – win yourself an editor for a year!

*Two runners-up will be given editorial critiques of their first chapter entries and also a personal telephone consultation about their writing!

Visit the I ♥ Presents blogsite for full details of the competition – and the chance to prepare for publication with an exclusive series of writing tutorials prepared by the editorial team at Harlequin Presents, including advice on First Chapters, How to Write a Synopsis, Loving the Alpha Male and Generating Emotional Conflict.

Entries for the competition will be accepted as on-line submissions only from 1st January until 14th February 2008. Entries should comprise of the first chapter and a synopsis of a previously unpublished/unsubmitted novel aimed at Harlequin Presents. Address for entries: instantseduction@hmb.co.uk

**Even if Presents/Modern Heat is not your ideal line, the information offered as a build up to the contest is a wonderful education for anyone who wants to write for any of the Mills & Boon lines. Everything is cooperative in the London office, so the basics of what they are looking for in Presents, Romance, Medicals, and Historicals doesn't waver. A solid chapter one, focused conflict, and knowing your characters will make your submission a winner for any line.

Tears on my Pillow

2007-12-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

I have a confession – I'm a cry-a-holic. Not only do I tear up at sad movies, while reading touching novels, but I can’t keep my eyes from watering at weddings, school plays, even sappy TV commercials. I can’t read too many cards at the Hallmark store without destroying my eye makeup. It's become a bit of an embarrassment. My DH just rolls his eyes when we witness any show of emotion in public. He knows the waterworks are about to begin.
And it's not only the things that touch me. The sight of someone else crying – for whatever reason – will send me over the edge. I don't even have to know the cause of their display to follow suit. I've started avoiding the situations that'll make me cry. If I can't, I use waterproof mascara!
Believe it or not, although I can write a touching scene without fear of an emotional outpouring, I can’t reread or edit said scene. Yes – I know these are made up ficticious characters, products of my own imagination, yet they become so real to me – maybe more real to me than to a reader – that I can’t hold back the emotions.
It's become a handicap, really, this inability to control my tear ducts. I haven’t figured out if I'm really more emotional than most folks, or if I just wear my heart on my sleeve more – or rather, on my hanky. I've even gone so far as to try to distract myself from what's going on so I'm able to focus on not crying. Problem with that is, I feel cheated out of the emotional experience when all is said and done.
What about you? Can you keep your tears in check or are you the waterworks when you observe sad/happy/poignant moments? Are all the final pages of your romance novels stained with your tears?

RT Newbie!!

2007-11-30T12:49:00.000-08:00

Since this is my very first year as a published author, it's also going to be my first year attending Romantic Times Booklover's Convention. I supposed I could've attended as an unpub, but to be frank, I couldn't justify the expenditure then. At least now I'll get to sell some books. :-D

The convention's still some months away (April, to be exact), but I'm wondering if those of you who've previously attended could share your experiences and perhaps be so kind as to provide some "tips?" This newbie would be eternally grateful!!!

Oh, and btw:

Hopping into the Convertible - DARA

2007-11-27T18:04:00.000-08:00

I'm blogging today at Riding With The Top Down about the "Salon Phenomenon." Please come on over and wave at me as I ride by with some fabulous authors.

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-21T09:14:00.000-08:00

Visit www.hostdrjack.com

CLICK HERE!

I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with family, friends and good food.

New Book-- New Newsie--New Party!

2007-11-19T04:56:00.000-08:00

Because I missed my day to post, Dara was kind enough to give me her day...(thanks, Dara!)

I have a new release coming out soon! Suni’s Gift is due to be released on November 26th...I”m really excited about this one. I haven’t been this excited since Haley’s Cabin was released. It’s my first Phaze story and my first REAL ménage story.

Here’s a blurb:

High School English Teacher, Suni Buchanan married the man of her dreams and has a job she loves. As a firefighter, Ross sees his fair share of heartache and performs heroic acts every day. So, why does she fantasize about being with two men? It's wicked and selfish of her to even consider something so scandalous. But then Ross shocks her when he announces that he's read her journal and knows her secret desire. He goes one further when he surprises her with a special present for Christmas. A threesome that includes their mutual friend, Alex Boggs. But will the passion-filled night change their marriage for better or worse?

***And for an exciting excerpt go here: Excerpt

Also, I have a brand spankin’ new newsletter! To sign up go here: Anne's Newsie This is not a chat group. I will only be sending out one or two newsletters a month, so don’t worry, you WILL NOT get overloaded by chatter!

If you’d like to chat with me and other authors and readers, feel free to sign up to my chat group here: Anne’s Chat Group

NOTE: To celebrate my Phaze release, there will be a bunch of us Phaze authors chatting it up over at at my chat group (see link above) on November 26th...prizes, excerpts, and our hunky waiter, Dax! Come join the fun!

Sexy Phaze Authors attending:

Victoria Blisse
Aurora Black
Jamie Hill
Sapphire Phelan
Derek Musgrave
Brenna Lyons
&
Anne Rainey

2007 Sexiest Man Alive

2007-11-14T08:41:00.000-08:00

I'm deviating from the norm and devoting this week's blog to my second favorite topic after writing: MEN!!

More specifically, hot men!

Picked up the latest issue of People. I always read on the subway on my way to work (books, for the most part). But every now and again, I capitulate to this guilty pleasure, especially with titles like Sexiest Man Alive. Who can resist? So, it turns out that Matt Damon is People Magazine's 2007 Sexiest Man Alive. Okay, so I like Matt's movies and all, but I don't know. He's never ruffled any of my feathers. I look at him and think "ehhhh" and that pretty much sums it up.

Runner-up was Patrick Dempsey (aka Dr. Dreamy) who I must admit just gets sexier as he ages.

#3 spot went to the ultra-sexy, double-delish Ryan Reynolds. I had no idea he was so tall (6'2" according to People). Drool factor for him just increased exponentially. Is this man hot or what?!?

Good Lord, this is exactly how I want him (handcuffs and all...) and a bottle of Hersheys chocolate syrup.

#4 was Brad Pitt (no surprise there), he's been a permanent fixture of People's Sexiest Man's list for over a decade now (though, imho his age is starting to show).

#5 James McAvoy. I've never heard of him before and his picture did nothing for me, either. Of course, we're all entitled to our opinions, but moving right along...

#6 Johnny Depp! WTH?!!? A travesty if I ever heard one. At the very least he should've made the Top 3. Just look at that face and tell me this man isn't to-die-for sexy!??!

#7-Dave Annable. Never heard of him before either. But hey, he's hot. Sure didn't mind reading about him (you never know when you'll learn something new).

#8-Will Smith. Love his movies and he's a great actor, but like Matt, he's never set my pulse aspiking.

#9-Javier Bardem. The only reason I know of him is because he hails from my mother's homeland: Spain. But I think he's largely an unknown in mainstream America. Personally, I don't think he's attractive at all. But again, beauty's in the eye of the beholder.

#10-Shemar Moore. Now this man is S-E-X-Y. Wow. He was the only reason I watched the Young & the Restless for as long as I did.

If you don't want to fork over the $5+ for this double issue, just go to People's web site. Although, they don't have the complete 100 on there. I believe they only show the top 15. Some of the men on the list, however, left me scratching my head. For example, I'm a huge fan of The Office, but having Rainn Wilson (aka Dwight Schrute) on there? Come on, now.

My top 5 would've read like this:

1)Ryan Reynolds

2)Johnny Depp

3)Christian Bale

4)Jonathan Rhys Meyer

5)Matthew McConaughey

Who are your top 5?

Ups and Downs

2007-11-05T04:23:00.000-08:00

Writing through the peaks and valleys of life is a challenge. But I'm ususally pretty good at rolling with the punches. This weekend was one of those high and low times - first really high, then pretty low. I helped organize and then participated in a huge holiday kick-off signing at a local mall - yes - right out there in the mall. There were more than 20 authors from all over the state and I did something I've never done before - I sold every single copy of my books. What a high. I was on cloud nine. I left the signing and went to a big party with loads of my friends, drank, danced and had a terrific time. A good friend even shared some great news. Wonderful Saturday.
Then Sunday came. My daughter returned home from a sleepover with a terrible stomach flu. She hurled and cried and generally felt awful. Add to this my cramps from hell and my poor DH didn't know who to comfort first. He was amazing. Thanks to the doctor across the street and some serious meds, we're both a bit better this morning.
Believe it or not, I signed up for NaNoWriMo and was somehow able to write more than 2,000 words this weekend.
So what about you? Do you write when you're feeling bad? Get the meaty, emotional scenes cranked out when you're blue? Or must everything be on the upswing for your muse to show up?

The Virgin Mystique

2007-11-01T11:01:00.000-07:00

I’m working on two Erotica romances at the moment—a drastic departure from my comfort realm of historical romance. Although, my historicals are quite spicy themselves. Still, there’s a marked different between romance and erotic romance. I’m thoroughly enjoying my dip into this foray. What I like the most? My heroine is not, but most importantly, does not have to be a virgin.

Of course, one of my stories is a contemporary erotic romance and the heroine is over 30. The chances of a 30-something professional woman in NYC being a virgin nowadays are slim. My heroine is experienced (much more so than her 23-year-old lover.) A part of me cringed as I wrote each chapter. I kept thinking: Will my editor hate it? Will she think my heroine’s a slut?

Then I remembered this is an erotic romance, the traditional rules do not apply. Which got me thinking just what is the appeal of the ‘virgin heroine?’ Sometimes I’m annoyed by them. I recently read a contemporary romance by a NYT best-selling author (who shall remain nameless for obvious reasons). The heroine in this story was a 30-something attorney who was still a virgin. Of course, she meets said alpha-male hero and he teaches her all the joys of sex…blah, blah, blah. I hated the story because I hated the heroine. What I hated most was the absurd reason why this woman was still a virgin: she simply never had time for it. Apparently, all through college she did nothing but study, and afterward, well, she was consumed by her existing job. So no sex for her. No sexual thoughts, feelings, curiosity…nothing. Nada. Zilch. Until she meets the hero. Then her dormant libido suddenly goes into a crank-like frenzy.

Wouldn’t it have been easier (not to mention far more believable) to not make the heroine such a monolith of chastity and virtue? I wondered if perhaps this author was pressured by her editor to abide by the unwritten heroine-must-be-a-virgin credo. And this heroine wasn’t merely a virgin, she had absolutely no sexual experience whatsoever. She’d never pleasured herself or even gone to first base before in her life. She’d never even dated! Was this woman completely asexual? Frigid? It simply wasn’t believable.

This formulaic heroine, anachronistic as she is, continues to appear—assembly-line style—in many bestsellers. Of course, when writing historicals, you have to stick with the social norms of the times. In my historical westerns, my heroines are virgins. That’s expected and consistent with the time period, though. When writing contemporary romances, you are (or should be) at liberty to choose. To me it’s all about making the story and characters believable. So I’m wondering which you prefer and why. Virgin or not?

Favorite Paranormal?

2007-10-27T10:49:00.000-07:00

Hi All!

This one is easy. Just tell us which paranormal is your all time favorite! Then tell us why...yeah, easy...right! LOL. There's so many out there to choose from, it's so tough. Christine Feehan, Sherrilyn Kenyon, J. R. Ward, Amanda Ashley, Angela Knight...the list goes on.

My favorite paranormal was the one that most took me by surprise. "Blood Creek Haunting" by Derek Musgrave. Be aware that it is not a traditional paranormal romance. I think I enjoyed it so much for that very reason. The author pulled me into the story from the first page, and I was overwhelmed. It's an incredibly emotional tale.

here's a short blurb:
Blood Creek Haunting is the story of a woman who's being haunted by the ghost of an Indian brave. Emily discovers that not only is her house being built on the sacred ground of the Blood Creek Massacre, but also one of her ancestors was responsible for the massacre. Can Emily find a way to repay the debt? Will she survive the haunting?

Now, your turn!

Hands, arms and abs. OH MY!

2007-10-24T14:16:00.000-07:00

A couple days ago I was talking to a friend who's boyfriend works with my husband. She was complaining about his hands and how rough and calloused they get from their work. She actually worked on his hands to scrub some of the callouses away. I started thinking about how much I love my husbands hands (get your mind out of the gutter) lol. Seriously though, I love a man with rough, strong working mans hands. The callouses don't bother me. In fact, I'd much rather have a callous handed hubby to a smooth handed one. It reminds me how hard he works physically for our family. It makes him feel strong and masculine to me. I never realized how much I loved manly hands until we started this conversation. When I think back to the hero's I've written about I talk about their hands a lot and they're always rough, calloused, man hands, lol. I think it's one of my favorite male body parts. Sexy, strong hands and forearms.

You can't see this guys hands very well but I love his forearms. They're strong and sexy looking.

After hands and forearms my favorite male body part has to be abs. I LOVE a nice, strong, toned abdominal muscles (what woman doesn't?).

Yowza! Look at those abs. That is some writing inspiration right there.

So, whats your favorite male body part?

If you're a writer, is there a specific body part that you enjoy writing about? Describing? Something your hero has to have? (Lets keep this fairly clean folks ;)

Reality or Fantasy?

2007-10-21T13:15:00.000-07:00

Are your characters based on people you know, or are they completely made up? I guess all writers must get asked this question since I've been asked so many times by friends, fans, interviewers and the like. For me, the answer isn't so simple.

I am made up of all the experiences I've had, all the people I've known, all the stories I've heard and read. As I think about the answer, I realize I've based some secondary characters on friends and clients. But the characters always take on a life of their own and usually differ in some major ways from their model. When it comes to my major players, I can honestly say they are pure imagination.

As I write this, I'm in the midst of updating a workshop on characterization I'm giving in a few weeks. I realized as I made note cards the reason my major characters are not based on those I know. They spring from a particular GMC. Their personality must conform to what I need it to be. Not true of the supporting cast, whose GMCs can be a little more loose, a bit more pliant.

So what about you? How do you come up with exciting characters?

All I Want for Christmas

2007-10-19T08:51:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm two months early, but I've already asked my b/f for the Sony e-Reader for Christmas. I'm very much a techy geek, and I love new gadgets. I'm especially excited about this one.

Roughly the size of a paperback novel, but thinner than most, The Sony eReader can store hundreds of books in internal memory with the addition of an optional Memory Stick or Secure Digital (SD) flash memory card. I apologize for sounding like a commercial. I'm very excited about this long overdue gadget. One of the chronic complaints I hear from most readers regarding e-books is how they can't "take" their computer with them they way they can take their books. Well, this little baby is the answer. Not only can you take your favorite book with you, you can take hundreds! This is the first reader (allegedly) with a backlight display as well as zoom and scroll capabilities. So, in essence, you get a far better reading experience, and you don't have to go out searching for those "large print" books anymore. I'll wait until I actually have one to post my "official" review. But the eReader looks like its set to revolutionize epub as we know it. Of course, it's still a bit pricey. Give it time, that too will come down. And just think how much money you'll save downloading all your favorite authors at half the cost of dead tree. Ya gotta love technology.

Edits, Edits, Edits...where does it end!

2007-10-13T08:35:00.000-07:00

We’ve all been through it and we’ll continue to go through it. Sometimes it’s not so bad, other times you’re ready to scream and pull your hair. If you’re lucky, you’ll work with an editor who knows what they’re doing and won’t attempt to destroy your voice and turn your book into a cookie-cutter romance. If you’re unlucky you’ll end up with someone who doesn’t know bad writing from good.

Recently I’ve been working with two different editors from two different companies. Both ladies have their own way of doing things and both are very thorough. I feel quite fortunate to have worked with them, as they’ve shown me that not all editors are evil. LOL Now, for the good and bad of it.

Good vs Bad:
A good editor will help fix your mistakes.
A bad editor doesn’t see the mistakes to start with.

A good editor makes suggestions.
A bad editor wants it changed no arguments.

A good editor will make you laugh at yourself.
A bad editor wouldn’t know a joke if it bit her in the butt.

A good editor knows that you are not perfect.
A bad editor expects perfection, so she won’t have to do her job.

A good editor will point out things, so you won’t make the same mistakes in the future.
A bad editor just wants your manuscript off her desk.

A good editor thinks you have something worth reading.
A bad editor never bothered to actually read your manuscript.

A good editor respects your voice.
A bad editor changes you into...her.

A good editor doesn’t allow her personal issues to affect her job.
A bad editor slips her pet peeves into your MS every chance she gets.

Now, if you have any other pointers, share them with us!

Want a free e book?

2007-10-12T20:19:00.001-07:00

Phaze is having a reader survey...you answer the questions, send an email...you get a free ebook and a chance to win some print books...and if you let them know Jenna Allen told you about it...I get publisher kudos :)

TO PARTICIPATE: Until we get the form active, please paste the questions below and send your answers to klively (at) phaze (dot) com. We will try to get your book to you ASAP. Thanks for participating.

What is your e-mail address? (So we can send your free eBook)
Name of Phaze Author who referred you to this survey :: Jenna Allen
How many eBooks do you buy a month?
Where do you most often buy eBooks?
When purchasing directly from a publisher, what do you consider to be the most important factor?
Would you be more inclined to buy from a publisher that offered regular sales and discounts?
Would you be more inclined to buy from an eBook publisher that offered print books?
If you could change one thing about the website of your favorite publisher, what would it be?
How do you most often hear about a new eBook publisher?
From which publishers do you most often buy eBooks? CHOOSE FIVE
What are your favorite subgenres of erotic romance? CHOOSE FIVE
Which subgenres are you least likely to buy? CHOOSE FIVE
Which subgenres would you most like to see published? CHOOSE THREE
If you knew an eBook was going to print, would you wait to buy the print version?
Do you buy anthologies?
If you buy anthologies, which do you prefer?
What length preference do you buy most often?
What heat level of erotic romance do you prefer?
Comments?
Thank you for answering our survey! Please write the name of the Phaze eBook you would like to receive for free. (Visit Phaze.com for our current catalog).

OMG its Thursday

2007-10-10T23:29:00.000-07:00

I'm tellin ya, things have been crazy for me. I totally forgot that it was my day to blog so I don't have anything thats new, fun and exciting to talk about. I'm sitting here ready for bed trying to think about what to say so I decided to share an excerpt from my upcoming book, Getting Lucky with Luciano. In this scene the heroine, Kaylee is waiting in the restaurant for her two friends to come when Luciano approaches her. Kaylee has a small problem keeping it together when the object of her lust is around, lol. I hope you enjoy.

*****
Kaylee watched as the hostess sat the elderly couple who just entered when suddenly she got the feeling. Luciano must be near by. Goose bumps spread across her already tingling skin. Her heart started beating double time.
She didn’t see Luciano yet, but knew he had to be close by. She heard him making rounds like he did every night, greeting his customers in that sexy, baritone voice.
Turning to the left, her hand slid across the table. Just as he approached her, Kaylee did what she always did when he was around, something stupid. As her water glass tipped over creating a small pool on her table, she fought the overwhelming urge to crawl under that same table and hide. He must think I’m the world’s biggest klutz!
“I’ll get that for you.” Luciano said as he cleaned the small amount of water with one hand and a napkin. “Luckily you drank most of it already.” His rich, smooth tone wrapped around her making her dizzy. Or maybe that was from the lack of oxygen getting to her brain. Something about being around this man severed all her control over her body. The only connection that never failed, the one to her raging hormones.
“Yeah, lucky me,” Kaylee mumbled as she ran her hand up her arm. The heat from his closeness snaked across her bare skin.
“Nico sent out another desert for you to try while you’re waiting for your friends.” Luciano set a plate with three pieces of chocolate cake on the table. They looked almost as yummy as Luciano himself.
Taking another quick glance towards Luciano, Kaylee tried to respond but couldn’t raise her eyes to look the man in the face. She was eye level with his crotch and couldn’t for the life of her turn away. He obviously packed a pretty big bulge beneath his black slacks. Damned if her tongue didn’t have a mind of its own and slowly lick her lips. Get a grip, girl. You’re staring at the man’s crotch. Look up. Come on, you can do it.
The view on the way up was just as dangerous as the one below his belt. Flat stomach, keep going, broad chest, you’re almost there, square jaw, knowing smile, and near black colored eyes, exhale breath, you made it. Wait, knowing smile? Damn, he knows I’m checking him out!
“Look good?” Luciano said his smile growing.
Kaylee couldn’t breath, much less speak, so she did what she did best when Luciano was around, she stared.
“The dessert,” he said. “Does it look good?”
Dessert? What dessert? “Yes. It looks wonderful.”
“I’ll be sure to tell Nico you said so. We’ll be out later with dinner.” He stood there, locking eyes with her, in the process, stopping the beat of her heart a few seconds longer, than turned and walked away. She’d need a big dose of Nico’s chocolate to jump start her heart.

Copyright: Kelley Nyrae

Conferences Are Worth It!!

2007-10-08T05:46:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was NJRW's Put Your Heart in a Book Conference. This was my very first conference and I can't recommend them enough. I met wonderful people, authors, publishers, agents and editors, and made some great contacts (not to mention I sold a bunch of copies of my book in the book fair). Although Sherilynn Kenyon's line was out the door and wrapped around the hallway...lolol. Someday that'll be us, right? To top that off, RomanceNovelTV interviewed me, much to my surprise. Hopefully it won't all end up in the proverbial cutting room floor...lol..

The workshops were great, too. My favorite was one called Page Fright-How to Fight Your Writing Demons. I was surprised to learn so many writers share the same fears. Karen Robards also gave a wonderful speech during breakfast about her journey into this crazy world we inhabit. All in all, the entire conference was a success. I can't wait for next year's event. I think these conferences are a great networking tool. A way for us to meet fellow authors and other industry people. They can get a little pricey, so I think it's best to choose the ones we'll get the most from. I'm looking into RT's conference this upcoming April. But that one's really pricey!! Has anyone attended RT before? Would you recommend it? I've heard nothing but good things. If my Christmas bonus is as expected,then maybe I'll go ahead and splurge for April. :-)

Open Door or Closed?

2007-10-05T10:15:00.000-07:00

I was reading a book last week and was amazed at the number of graphic sex scenes. Now I'm no prude. All my books have a couple of saucy scenes but I always wonder how much detail is too much to cross the line into the "ick factor." Some of my favorite authors close the bedroom door on the sex while others describe every grunt and groan, every part being touched, licked or otherwise engaged. For me, how the sex is handled really doesn't affect how much I enjoy the book.
I don't read much erotica because I often find the stories or the characters a little lacking because so much page space is devoted to the sex. The next one on my TBR pile is an erotica, however. Since some of my short stories are that genre, I thought I should brush up on what's out there.
So what about you? Do you prefer the door be open or shut on graphic scenes?

Professionalism in Publishing

2007-09-29T10:38:00.000-07:00

As authors, every time we submit a story we take a risk. That risk is tenfold when you don’t have an agent, because all the homework is on our shoulders. We’re forced to research each publishing house before we become involved with them; not doing so will undoubtedly result in poor handling of your manuscript, or nonpayment of royalties. Unfortunately, it can sometimes be difficult to tell the rotten apples from the good ones. *everyone nods in agreement* All of us have been forced to eat a worm or two over our writing career. Some of you have already been through at least one horrible fiasco. Some of you have had the misfortune of becoming involved in multiple bad experiences—through no fault of your own. So, today I want to talk a little bit about something I find very disturbing, lack of integrity.

The definition of integrity: Steadfast adherence to a strict moral or ethical code.

I’m seeing more and more publishers forgetting that this is a business involving real people, not machines. We work hard to create a story worthy of reading. Most of us spend hours and hours at the computer, day after day, just to get a rough draft. Laundry takes a backseat. Our kids are sometimes forced to play outside while we attempt to think over a particular scene. Lots of sacrifices are made. Therefore, when a publisher doesn’t hold up their end of the bargain it’s like a big slap in the face. We’re forced to adhere to their guidelines or don’t even bother to submit, right? So why is it okay for their personal lives to interfere when it comes time for them to hold up their end of the bargain?

I’m not talking about breach of contract. I’m talking about honesty. Once upon a time, deals were made based solely on shaking a man’s hand. We trusted them to keep their word. But with some publishers all you hear are excuses, sometimes nothing at all. Emails are ignored. How does this make us feel? Frustrated. Angry that we kept strict to our moral code, but the publisher thinks its okay for them to make the rules up as they go along.

No, it’s not okay. We’re not machines! We’re human beings, working hard to create a wonderful tale filled with love and emotion and believable characters. A tale they’re going to profit from, I might add. The least they can do is honor their end of the handshake.

What do I look for in a publisher before I submit?
1. Primarily, check out their website.
2. Buy a book and do your own little critique. Is the story edited well, or are there many things that were missed?
3. Is the cover art well done or something your kid could have colored?
4. How many authors do they have on the payroll?
5. When was the company established and by whom? Most times, you can Google the woman/man behind the name and find information about them. This is a good way to learn more about this person’s company.
6. Ask your fellow authors a few pertinent questions--privately. If they’re unhappy with their publisher, most likely they’ll let you know. This is also a good way to find out who the good guys are.
7. Lastly, check out the Piers Anthony and Predators and Editors sites for any negative feedback.

Now for a list of things publishers do that put them on my no-no list (this list came from a member of my yahoo group, The Romance Bistro After Dark):
1. Publisher doesn't answer emails. Cannot be reached by phone or reg. mail. Basically falls off the face of the earth for an extended length of time.
2. Publisher does not pay on time.
3. Publisher pays but checks are short-changed (I'll pay you the rest later. or Ooops, my mistake. I'll send you the rest soon.), unsigned (Ooops, my mistake. I'll send you another one.), or bounce (It's the bank's fault).
4. Website is not updated for new releases. New releases are pushed back or postponed.
5. Editors are not paid. Cover artists are not paid. Other employees are not paid, and publisher does not answer their inquiries.
6. Fictionwise and ARe sales are not commiserate with author's spreadsheet. (Clue: The new release has 8 ratings, which means AT LEAST 8 people bought the book, but when paid, author is stated "No Sales". or Author's book is sitting at # 1 or # 2 for publisher, but author is stated single-digit sales.)
7. Google search discovers another website and publishing company under publisher's name.
8. Google search discovers author's books for sale on eBay and overseas Amazon sites that authors were not aware of.

***Now I’d love to hear from readers, writers, editors, anyone in the industry who has more insight into this. Or, if you’d like to share your own horror story, we’re here to listen. After all, the Romance Rules tagline is: a bunch of romance authors ranting about writing!

To condom or not to condom (in our writing that is)

2007-09-26T10:20:00.000-07:00

I've been curious how readers feel about this and also how other writers feel about it: Do you think the h&h should always wear condoms in books or does it depend on the circumstance? So far, my characters have always used condoms in their love scenes. I've wondered if it breaks the moment for readers. Are they really getting into the scene when we put up a big stop sign to put on the condom? Lets face the facts that in today's world using a condom is not only the responsible thing to do but the smart thing to do. It can save your life. But I know a lot of people read books to get a little escape from reality. To step into a world that maybe you don't always HAVE to think about those things. For those reasons is it okay not to use the condom or do you feel like the characters are being irresponsible if they don't? Especially if the heroine is on the pill, does that give them the okay to not use a condom? Also do you think its different for erotica? Why or why not?

Us Cats and Them Dogs

2007-09-23T13:20:00.000-07:00

Is is just me or has anyone noticed how so many writers have cats for pets? I know a couple authors who have dogs too, but not nearly as many. Could it be the solitary nature of our work and the solitary nature of the animal? Perhaps cats don't tend to interrupt us during those critical creativity explosions when we MUST finish the scene or the chapter. A dog will not quietly wait to go for a walk or to play or to eat.
Don't get me wrong, my cats have their ways of letting me know what they want, like practically tripping me to make sure I head to the food bowls as I walk through the house in the morning. One parks her butt on my desk in front of my computer screen when I haven't shown her the acceptable amount of attention. I wonder if Ernest Hemingway's multitude of felines took up residence on his typewriter when in need of some head-scratching or chin-rubbing.

So what about you? Are you a cat person, a dog person or neither?