I've been cruising several blogs lately, notably Karen's. The comments and blog posts have hinted at reader saturation for paranormals--the vamps, witches, warlocks and were-everything. I've been writing since 2003, a babe in the woods compared to others who've been around much longer. Paranormal was the hottest-selling genre when I started. For all I know, it could still be the best-selling genre of all. Without actual numbers, there's no way of knowing.
I write mostly contemporaries and futuristics. My contemporary stories have sold better than my futuristics ones, but I don't intend to stop writing futuristics. I love world-building. It's like a blank canvas and I have the freedom to create whatever I want. It's exciting. I tried my hand at a paranormal for EC once, which was turned down, by the way. Reading it now, I'm thankful it was rejected. It wasn't good at all.
It's not a stretch to say that the paranormal market has exploded. The big publishing houses in New York have their own paranormal line, as well as the ebook publishers. Is the market saturated? Maybe. Maybe not. But paranormals will always have a place in the market. Any book that's well-written and well-edited will be successful. A plot line with original twists and turns and engaging characters will resonate with readers. I know of several very successful authors who write great paranormals. They're very good at what they do and their NY contracts prove it.
Like everything else, I believe that romance books/genres are not immune to cycles. What's hot today might not be so hot in a couple of years. What's important is that authors continue to create well-written, emotionally-gripping, imagination-stirring romance stories that readers love. Whether it's erotic romance, romantic suspense, time travel, futuristic, paranormal or just plain contemporary, readers will love a good book. Romance is an industry that continues to evolves. We just have to adapt to change. And change is always good.
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Monday, April 30, 2007
Sexy
I've been watching Showtime's The Tudors and have been drooling over an actor named Henry Cavill. He plays Charles Brandon, 1st Duke of Suffolk.
There isn't a whole lot of info about him. He was born in '83, which makes him only 24 years old. A bit young for my taste, but hey, he's serious eye candy. Yum. He's a total hottie, ladies. Be sure to check him out. *g*
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Dark Heroes
I read Karen's post about dark heroes in romances. Do you like them? I do. To me, a dark hero is just as appealing, sometimes even more, than one who isn't. I like angst. I like baggage. I like a man who's weathered storms that have helped shape the man he is now. That gives him character and depth. Yum. So much more fun.
Of course, being dark doesn't mean the hero can be abusive, whether physical or verbal. I have never liked or agreed with a hero who physically hit the woman. But then again, there are exceptions. Now, now, before some of you get in a snit about that, let me clarify. If the slap--and I won't let the hero get any further than a slap--works within the plot and the characterization, then I don't mind it as much. It makes me cringe, but if its done well, it works for me.
For instance? Brenda Joyce's Promise of The Rose, which I read years ago. Loved this book, by the way. I love Joyce's historicals because her heroes are dark and tormented, strong and very alpha. In Promise of the Rose, the hero Stephen discovers his wife's Mary's alleged betrayal (whoa, is this is big ol' misunderstanding plot? *g* It does exist, then)when she left him and fled to her the family castle in Scotland when she overheard Stephen talking about laying seige against her father, Malcolm, the King. Stephen surmised that Mary had been spying and left to warn her family. If I remember correctly, she was deathly afraid for the lives of her brothers and parents. Mary fled to a monastery after hearing of her husband's anger at her perceived betrayal. To make a long story short, Stephen eventually found her. Mary tried to beg him to understand. He was so angry he slapped her (and unbeknownst to him, she's pregnant here) and banished her to some faraway castle.
Okay. This was a powerful scene for me. Why? Stephen was understandably angry at her betrayal. Instead of staying by his side, which was her duty, Mary left him to go to her family. Was the slap warranted? I thought so. In the context of the time setting, during those days when the man had absolute authority over his wife, I believed it. I'm as much of a feminist as the next woman, but when I'm reading a book, it has to stay true to the time setting. Promise of the Rose's plot revolved around politics, betrayals, arranged marriage, spying and royal intrigue. In this case, Stephen slapping his wife--once--worked. Joyce handled it well, I thought.
Don't get me wrong, though. If a hero is cruel and likes to beat a woman senseless just to get his kicks, then that's repulsive to me. Can't read something like that.
So yeah, I prefer dark heroes all around. I love to show the contrast between being a strong male, yet coping with some torment of sorts. It makes him real, somehow. Still larger than life, but real.
Of course, being dark doesn't mean the hero can be abusive, whether physical or verbal. I have never liked or agreed with a hero who physically hit the woman. But then again, there are exceptions. Now, now, before some of you get in a snit about that, let me clarify. If the slap--and I won't let the hero get any further than a slap--works within the plot and the characterization, then I don't mind it as much. It makes me cringe, but if its done well, it works for me.
For instance? Brenda Joyce's Promise of The Rose, which I read years ago. Loved this book, by the way. I love Joyce's historicals because her heroes are dark and tormented, strong and very alpha. In Promise of the Rose, the hero Stephen discovers his wife's Mary's alleged betrayal (whoa, is this is big ol' misunderstanding plot? *g* It does exist, then)when she left him and fled to her the family castle in Scotland when she overheard Stephen talking about laying seige against her father, Malcolm, the King. Stephen surmised that Mary had been spying and left to warn her family. If I remember correctly, she was deathly afraid for the lives of her brothers and parents. Mary fled to a monastery after hearing of her husband's anger at her perceived betrayal. To make a long story short, Stephen eventually found her. Mary tried to beg him to understand. He was so angry he slapped her (and unbeknownst to him, she's pregnant here) and banished her to some faraway castle.
Okay. This was a powerful scene for me. Why? Stephen was understandably angry at her betrayal. Instead of staying by his side, which was her duty, Mary left him to go to her family. Was the slap warranted? I thought so. In the context of the time setting, during those days when the man had absolute authority over his wife, I believed it. I'm as much of a feminist as the next woman, but when I'm reading a book, it has to stay true to the time setting. Promise of the Rose's plot revolved around politics, betrayals, arranged marriage, spying and royal intrigue. In this case, Stephen slapping his wife--once--worked. Joyce handled it well, I thought.
Don't get me wrong, though. If a hero is cruel and likes to beat a woman senseless just to get his kicks, then that's repulsive to me. Can't read something like that.
So yeah, I prefer dark heroes all around. I love to show the contrast between being a strong male, yet coping with some torment of sorts. It makes him real, somehow. Still larger than life, but real.
Monday, April 23, 2007
He's Gone
Sanjaya is finally gone. The voters got it right last week and voted him off the show. He cried and I honestly felt bad...for a second. Really, if you think about it, he doesn't belong there. I saw on the news that he made an appearance in Washington DC this weekend. Great. He'll probably be able to extend his fifteen minutes of fame to...a month?
Hmm. I wonder who'll be going next in American Idol. I have a feeling it'll be Phil Stacey. Can't wait to find out!
Hmm. I wonder who'll be going next in American Idol. I have a feeling it'll be Phil Stacey. Can't wait to find out!
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Time for him to go
Country music was the theme of American Idol last night. I'm not a country music fan, but there are songs that I like, songs which are extremely easy to listen to. Martina McBride is awesome. She has this song "Valentine" which I really love. Classic. Her voice is just amazing.
Phil Stacey surprised the judges (and me) last night. Maybe country is his niche. His performance was better than the previous weeks. About Jordin...what can I say? For a seventeen year old, she showed poise and control. Her voice is just powerful, you know? I'm telling you she's the dark horse of the competition. I wouldn't be surprised if she ended in the top three or even two.
Lakisha sang "Jesus Take The Wheel" by Carrie Underwood. Simon was blah, and so were Randy and Paula. I think it comes down to song choice for Lakisha. She's very talented, but she needs to pick better songs. On the other hand, Blake Lewis has the uncanny ability of picking the right songs. Last night he sang a Tim McGraw song--the title escapes me at the moment--but he pulled it off. Great performance. Melinda Doolittle, as always, was perfect. Sassy, sexy and fun. I hope Chris Richardson survives this week. I thought he sang well, but Simon thought he sounded nasally.
Sanjaya sang "Let's Give Them Something To Talk About" by Bonnie Raitt. Puh-leeze. If this guy thinks he can continue winning just on hairstyles and smiles alone, he's dead wrong. Simon even said as much last night when he said, "Come on, people. What are we doing here?" He's obviously fed up because people keep on voting for Sanjaya, who plainly does not belong there compared to the rest. I think this kid is beginning to believe the press, too, because he acts like he can't do no wrong. Reality check here. HE NEEDS TO GO.
Let's hope they get it right tonight and vote off the one person whose time has come.
Phil Stacey surprised the judges (and me) last night. Maybe country is his niche. His performance was better than the previous weeks. About Jordin...what can I say? For a seventeen year old, she showed poise and control. Her voice is just powerful, you know? I'm telling you she's the dark horse of the competition. I wouldn't be surprised if she ended in the top three or even two.
Lakisha sang "Jesus Take The Wheel" by Carrie Underwood. Simon was blah, and so were Randy and Paula. I think it comes down to song choice for Lakisha. She's very talented, but she needs to pick better songs. On the other hand, Blake Lewis has the uncanny ability of picking the right songs. Last night he sang a Tim McGraw song--the title escapes me at the moment--but he pulled it off. Great performance. Melinda Doolittle, as always, was perfect. Sassy, sexy and fun. I hope Chris Richardson survives this week. I thought he sang well, but Simon thought he sounded nasally.
Sanjaya sang "Let's Give Them Something To Talk About" by Bonnie Raitt. Puh-leeze. If this guy thinks he can continue winning just on hairstyles and smiles alone, he's dead wrong. Simon even said as much last night when he said, "Come on, people. What are we doing here?" He's obviously fed up because people keep on voting for Sanjaya, who plainly does not belong there compared to the rest. I think this kid is beginning to believe the press, too, because he acts like he can't do no wrong. Reality check here. HE NEEDS TO GO.
Let's hope they get it right tonight and vote off the one person whose time has come.
Tragedy in Virginia
I don't know what to say except I will keep everyone in my thoughts and prayers. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. It was a sad, senseless tragedy. I don't think we will ever understand why one person would go to such lengths. What drove him? Could it have been prevented? So many questions that we hope will be answered in the coming days.
I hope this brings us all together. Let's give our loved ones a hug, our friends a call to comfort and commiserate, and thank God everyday for our lives and blessings.
I hope this brings us all together. Let's give our loved ones a hug, our friends a call to comfort and commiserate, and thank God everyday for our lives and blessings.
Monday, April 16, 2007
American Idol review
Too bad Chris Sligh got voted off. I thought he was a great singer, though he had timing problems. The guy always sang just a tad faster than the melody of the song. Oh well, I hope he goes on to bigger and better things. He's talented, that's for sure.
Haley Scarnato caught on fast and started dressing sexy these past few weeks. I think it carried her an extra week or two, but let's face it, although she can sing, she just wasn't as good as say, Melinda (who's the front runner) or Lakisha or Jordin. I figured she was getting the axe last week. But hey, she was in the top ten and I think she goes on to join them in the AI tour. Not bad, huh?
Chris Richardson is cute. I like him. He reminds me a little of Justin Timberlake. His voice is not as strong, but he somehow pulls it off, you know? He's got charisma. Blake Lewis is cool. He puts his own spin on the songs and makes it contemporary. Phil Stacey is not bad, but when he sings, he seems like he's shouting.
And now we get to Sanjaya. I don't know what to say. I really don't. They say he's one of the most popular searches on the internet. He's a good kid, but compared to the others, he's just not as strong. But people keep on voting for him, so much that he's never in the bottom three. This is a singing competition, people. Please keep that in mind. It irritates the hell out of me that he stays and that better singers have been voted off because of him. Grrr!!!
SIGH. Let's hope that this week, we all get it right and vote off the one person who just doesn't belong there.
Haley Scarnato caught on fast and started dressing sexy these past few weeks. I think it carried her an extra week or two, but let's face it, although she can sing, she just wasn't as good as say, Melinda (who's the front runner) or Lakisha or Jordin. I figured she was getting the axe last week. But hey, she was in the top ten and I think she goes on to join them in the AI tour. Not bad, huh?
Chris Richardson is cute. I like him. He reminds me a little of Justin Timberlake. His voice is not as strong, but he somehow pulls it off, you know? He's got charisma. Blake Lewis is cool. He puts his own spin on the songs and makes it contemporary. Phil Stacey is not bad, but when he sings, he seems like he's shouting.
And now we get to Sanjaya. I don't know what to say. I really don't. They say he's one of the most popular searches on the internet. He's a good kid, but compared to the others, he's just not as strong. But people keep on voting for him, so much that he's never in the bottom three. This is a singing competition, people. Please keep that in mind. It irritates the hell out of me that he stays and that better singers have been voted off because of him. Grrr!!!
SIGH. Let's hope that this week, we all get it right and vote off the one person who just doesn't belong there.
Oopps...My Bad
I thought I was going to be the featured author over at Sensual Romances this month. It turns out that it will be next month. Oopps...my bad. I'm sorry. It's not April but May.
Don't worry, though, that means you have plenty of time to sign up to receive the newsletter and I'll still be giving away two print books, Insatiable and Pleasure Planet, as well as the Ellora's Cave playing cards and bookmarks.
Don't worry, though, that means you have plenty of time to sign up to receive the newsletter and I'll still be giving away two print books, Insatiable and Pleasure Planet, as well as the Ellora's Cave playing cards and bookmarks.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Sirens of Sensual Romances
This month, I'm one of the featured authors at Sensual Romances. We're a group of thirteen erotic romance authors who put out a newsletter every month. The authors are: Lani Aames, Elisa Adams, Bella Andre, Treva Harte, Katherine Kingston, Titania Ladley, Judy Mays, Lacey Savage, Ruby Storm, Cassie Walder, Samantha Winston, Mary Winter and yours truly.
The newsletter features news about your favorite authors, new book releases, excerpts and even recipes. We also run a contest every month where our members get a chance to win fabulous prizes. As one of the featured authors for April, I'm giving away print copies of Insatiable and Pleasure Planet, plus a couple of decks of Ellora's Cave playing cards. I'll also include a signed Insatiable cover flat and some bookmarks.
The other featured author is Elisa Adams. I'm sure she'll be giving away an awesome prize packet, too. So if you haven't signed up yet, head on over to www.sensualromances.com, click on Newsletter to subscribe and you'll be taken to the groups page where you can sign up to be a member. As a member, you're automatically eligible to win. Join today!
The newsletter features news about your favorite authors, new book releases, excerpts and even recipes. We also run a contest every month where our members get a chance to win fabulous prizes. As one of the featured authors for April, I'm giving away print copies of Insatiable and Pleasure Planet, plus a couple of decks of Ellora's Cave playing cards. I'll also include a signed Insatiable cover flat and some bookmarks.
The other featured author is Elisa Adams. I'm sure she'll be giving away an awesome prize packet, too. So if you haven't signed up yet, head on over to www.sensualromances.com, click on Newsletter to subscribe and you'll be taken to the groups page where you can sign up to be a member. As a member, you're automatically eligible to win. Join today!
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Logan's Fall Cover
I thought I'd share with all of you the cover for Logan's Fall. I just got it today and I think it's very striking. I love the colors, the sexy pose, and the oh so romantic way the woman is cradling the man's face. Very nice!
Logan's Fall will be available on April 18th from Elloras Cave Publishing at www.ellorascave.com
Friday, March 23, 2007
Thanks for the Love
I've gotten emails and notes regarding my blog post yesterday. A majority of them thought I was miserable because of a NY rejection. No, it wasn't because of that. Besides, a rejection letter is something to be proud of. It's like a badge of courage. You get rejected once, you fearlessly send in another submission.
Thanks for the love I received yesterday. A very good friend of mine told me to stop being a drama queen and buck up. LOLOL! Yes, only she would have the nerve to tell me that and get away with it. It hit the spot, though. I've been walking around with doldrums the past few days. My usual go-getter attitude was missing. No excuses, but maybe I was a little bit hormonal. But I'm okay now.
So my thanks to all of you who took the time to drop me a note. I love y'all too!
Thanks for the love I received yesterday. A very good friend of mine told me to stop being a drama queen and buck up. LOLOL! Yes, only she would have the nerve to tell me that and get away with it. It hit the spot, though. I've been walking around with doldrums the past few days. My usual go-getter attitude was missing. No excuses, but maybe I was a little bit hormonal. But I'm okay now.
So my thanks to all of you who took the time to drop me a note. I love y'all too!
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Unproductive
Ugh. Without going into detail, my world titled off its axis this week and I'm helpless to stop it. If I was the type to pop a pill, I probably would have already. Oh, stop it. I'm not advocating drug use and you know it. You only have to look at me to know that I don't have any vice at all. Proof? It's the extra pounds I carry and can never get rid of. I don't smoke. I don't drink. I don't do drugs. But during times like now I wish I did. I'd love a few moments of blessed ignorance or escape.
Professional and personal events in my life have wreaked havoc with my productivity. There I was, writing along, finishing Anton's story (remember him from For One Night Only?) when bam! I was blindsided by a totally unexpected event. And no, I can't divulge it at the moment because it's just not for public consumption. Suffice it to say, I haven't been able to write a damn thing. It doesn't take a lot to derail me, unfortunately, and that's the thing that I really would love to change. But we are who we are, and just like you, I try to do my best. I will bounce back. The bad thing is I haven't yet. But soon.
As for the personal side, my daughter is going through what I believe are growing pains. She's sixteen and a terrific kid. Smart, responsible, trustworthy. She's got a 4.3 GPA in school and handles club softball and honors classes with such aplomb that I really admire her.
As a parent, you want to help your children out every way you can and spare them hurt, pain, rejection and everything else. In short, you want to give them the world and take care of them forever. I'm one of those. But now, I'm learning to let my daughter grow up. Her self-confidence has been a little shaky lately and I'm hurting, folks. I just want to take her in my arms and comfort her. But a part of me is holding me back. She's got to grow up. It's time. I had a serious talk with her and told her that the only person who can help her is herself. She's got to pull herself up by her boot straps and hunker down. Get tough and grow up. It's a lesson for her and quite honestly, I think it's a lesson for me, too. I've got to give her room to work things out on her own. Remember, that which doesn't kill us, only makes us stronger.
These past fews days, I've been walking around tense and grumpy. Every little thing irritated the hell out of me. I found myself wishing that life was easier, that I didn't have all these concerns that stressed me out. That's a big, fat fantasy. I have to deal with it. No escape. No avoiding it. I've had to grow up, too, believe it or not. Now, I just take it one day at a time. My grandma used to say "Sleep on it, child. Things always look better when you wake up in the morning."
She was a wise woman.
Professional and personal events in my life have wreaked havoc with my productivity. There I was, writing along, finishing Anton's story (remember him from For One Night Only?) when bam! I was blindsided by a totally unexpected event. And no, I can't divulge it at the moment because it's just not for public consumption. Suffice it to say, I haven't been able to write a damn thing. It doesn't take a lot to derail me, unfortunately, and that's the thing that I really would love to change. But we are who we are, and just like you, I try to do my best. I will bounce back. The bad thing is I haven't yet. But soon.
As for the personal side, my daughter is going through what I believe are growing pains. She's sixteen and a terrific kid. Smart, responsible, trustworthy. She's got a 4.3 GPA in school and handles club softball and honors classes with such aplomb that I really admire her.
As a parent, you want to help your children out every way you can and spare them hurt, pain, rejection and everything else. In short, you want to give them the world and take care of them forever. I'm one of those. But now, I'm learning to let my daughter grow up. Her self-confidence has been a little shaky lately and I'm hurting, folks. I just want to take her in my arms and comfort her. But a part of me is holding me back. She's got to grow up. It's time. I had a serious talk with her and told her that the only person who can help her is herself. She's got to pull herself up by her boot straps and hunker down. Get tough and grow up. It's a lesson for her and quite honestly, I think it's a lesson for me, too. I've got to give her room to work things out on her own. Remember, that which doesn't kill us, only makes us stronger.
These past fews days, I've been walking around tense and grumpy. Every little thing irritated the hell out of me. I found myself wishing that life was easier, that I didn't have all these concerns that stressed me out. That's a big, fat fantasy. I have to deal with it. No escape. No avoiding it. I've had to grow up, too, believe it or not. Now, I just take it one day at a time. My grandma used to say "Sleep on it, child. Things always look better when you wake up in the morning."
She was a wise woman.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
300
I went to see 300 last weekend and I'm glad to say, I wasn't disappointed. My husband and I, along with our daughter, caught the late afternoon showing last Friday, hoping to avoid the crowds. You see, the buzz about this movie has been such that we knew it was going to be a hit. To my surprise, the showing was sold out. I mean, we got in and found our usual seats. Then came the steady stream of people, men, women and to my surprise, children. I'm not an advocate of taking little kids to R rated movies, you see. I just don't think its appropriate.
The movie was everything I expected. Stylized, visually captivating and of course, aesthetically pleasing with all the half-naked, very buff men walking around with spears and capes. LOL! I've always been a big fan of Gerard Butler. He's on my list of all time hotties. Puh-leeze. Don't even ask me why. Just look at his picture and watch the movie.
While I enjoyed the constant parade of sculpted six pack and thick, muscled thighs--I am only a woman, after all--I did find the movie lacking in some ways. I thought Butler's Leonidas was a bit over the top. He had a tendency to scream which got to me a little. But this, I readily forgive. In fact, I will forgive Gerard anything. Even the fact that he smokes (according to the cover article in Men's Health Magazine.)He's just so hot and sooo easy on the eyes.
It was a good movie, folks. Fascinating and full of stunning visual effects. I recommend it just for the eye candy. LOL!
The movie was everything I expected. Stylized, visually captivating and of course, aesthetically pleasing with all the half-naked, very buff men walking around with spears and capes. LOL! I've always been a big fan of Gerard Butler. He's on my list of all time hotties. Puh-leeze. Don't even ask me why. Just look at his picture and watch the movie.
While I enjoyed the constant parade of sculpted six pack and thick, muscled thighs--I am only a woman, after all--I did find the movie lacking in some ways. I thought Butler's Leonidas was a bit over the top. He had a tendency to scream which got to me a little. But this, I readily forgive. In fact, I will forgive Gerard anything. Even the fact that he smokes (according to the cover article in Men's Health Magazine.)He's just so hot and sooo easy on the eyes.
It was a good movie, folks. Fascinating and full of stunning visual effects. I recommend it just for the eye candy. LOL!
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
I've Got A Release Date, Folks!
I finally got a release date for the third book in my Cyborgs series over at Ellora's Cave. Logan's Fall will be released on April 18th! Yay!
I'm so jazzed. A ton of you have badgered me (good-naturedly, of course *g*) about Logan's story since I announced it's been contracted. Of course, as soon as I get the cover, I will post it here.
Here's the blurb for Logan's Fall:
Dark, disturbing dreams…
Every night Sharra is plagued by nightmares, a confusing mixture of blood and death, of tremendous hurt and grief. Her dreams are haunted by a man she’s never seen before. She doesn’t know who he is or where he’s from—but she knows that he’s her destiny.
The secret lies within…
Logan Mi’an Tar’s past has left him emotionally scarred, his heart hardened by hatred and guilt. He lives with constant nightmares and endures the enormous pain that follows. Until he meets Sharra, who vows to heal him and breach the wall that guards his heart.
A forbidden union…
Fate brings them together. Intense desire—hot, urgent, undeniable—forges a deep bond. But for a chance at lasting happiness, Logan and Sharra will have to fight for a love that will finally bring them both out of the darkness.
How do you like that? I like it a lot! I'm very excited about Logan's Fall. I think it's such a great story of love and salvation--not to mention the very hot chemistry between Logan and Sharra. In the story, we'll also get to catch up with some returning characters, like Jed and Kate, and Tristan and Ava. Logan's Fall also introduces some new characters who will eventually have their own story.
Again, as soon as I get the cover, I'll post it here for all of you. So mark your calendars. April 18th is THE day.
I'm so jazzed. A ton of you have badgered me (good-naturedly, of course *g*) about Logan's story since I announced it's been contracted. Of course, as soon as I get the cover, I will post it here.
Here's the blurb for Logan's Fall:
Dark, disturbing dreams…
Every night Sharra is plagued by nightmares, a confusing mixture of blood and death, of tremendous hurt and grief. Her dreams are haunted by a man she’s never seen before. She doesn’t know who he is or where he’s from—but she knows that he’s her destiny.
The secret lies within…
Logan Mi’an Tar’s past has left him emotionally scarred, his heart hardened by hatred and guilt. He lives with constant nightmares and endures the enormous pain that follows. Until he meets Sharra, who vows to heal him and breach the wall that guards his heart.
A forbidden union…
Fate brings them together. Intense desire—hot, urgent, undeniable—forges a deep bond. But for a chance at lasting happiness, Logan and Sharra will have to fight for a love that will finally bring them both out of the darkness.
How do you like that? I like it a lot! I'm very excited about Logan's Fall. I think it's such a great story of love and salvation--not to mention the very hot chemistry between Logan and Sharra. In the story, we'll also get to catch up with some returning characters, like Jed and Kate, and Tristan and Ava. Logan's Fall also introduces some new characters who will eventually have their own story.
Again, as soon as I get the cover, I'll post it here for all of you. So mark your calendars. April 18th is THE day.
Friday, February 23, 2007
For One Night Only Ecataromance Nominee!
I just found out yesterday that For One Night Only has been nominated for Ecataromance's Reviewer Choice Award. That's really nice. Really, really nice. LOL. You can check out the rest of the nominees at the Cata Network Message Boards.
This really just made my day. Yay!
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Need I Say More?
It's sad that some people just have more money than sense. Even sadder that she's getting all the press. She's not one I'd want my kids to emulate.
Back To School
I'll let you in on a secret. I've gone back to school. I want to finish the degree that I was never able to finish because I met the love of my life when I was a sophomore in college. So here I am, a student again.
It's a lot of fun and certainly challenging. You know what I also realized? It seems like I don't have the patience to study anymore. At my age, it feels a little bit weird. I leaf through the study guides and I'm groaning inside. I have to read this? Do this? What???? It feels funny to go home and crack the books, take copious notes, and review for tests. It's a strange feeling, I tell ya.
My classmates are great, a friendly bunch of kids. My son is a senior in high school, and it seems like they all act the same. I listen to them swap stories and I can't help but smile. I hear those at home! I'm thinking this will be a good thing for my writing. I can pick up story ideas to run with and develop into a hot romance. Yay!
One glaring downside of going back to school is that I've had to drastically cut back on my reading. Yes, folks, I haven't picked up a book in weeks. I feel like I'm going through withdrawal. I don't know what new book is out or will soon come out. The free time I have I spend it writing so I can finish all my projects and make my editor happy. I wake up at five in the morning every day to get some writing done, spend a couple of hours at the office with my hubby to help out with admin stuff and then go off to study. It's a crazy life, but you know what? I believe it will pay off soon. I actually like the fact that I'm busy. Time doesn't drag while I'm doing all that.
Stay tuned. I'll keep y'all posted.
It's a lot of fun and certainly challenging. You know what I also realized? It seems like I don't have the patience to study anymore. At my age, it feels a little bit weird. I leaf through the study guides and I'm groaning inside. I have to read this? Do this? What???? It feels funny to go home and crack the books, take copious notes, and review for tests. It's a strange feeling, I tell ya.
My classmates are great, a friendly bunch of kids. My son is a senior in high school, and it seems like they all act the same. I listen to them swap stories and I can't help but smile. I hear those at home! I'm thinking this will be a good thing for my writing. I can pick up story ideas to run with and develop into a hot romance. Yay!
One glaring downside of going back to school is that I've had to drastically cut back on my reading. Yes, folks, I haven't picked up a book in weeks. I feel like I'm going through withdrawal. I don't know what new book is out or will soon come out. The free time I have I spend it writing so I can finish all my projects and make my editor happy. I wake up at five in the morning every day to get some writing done, spend a couple of hours at the office with my hubby to help out with admin stuff and then go off to study. It's a crazy life, but you know what? I believe it will pay off soon. I actually like the fact that I'm busy. Time doesn't drag while I'm doing all that.
Stay tuned. I'll keep y'all posted.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Great Night for Music
I watched the Grammys the other night, the actual show, mind you, not the never-ending red carpet interviews, commentary on clothes and make-up, etc. It's the biggest night for the music industry, kinda like the Oscars. The performances all have to be live. No lip synch, thank you very much. These are the real singers and artists. LOL.
It was nice to see the Police together again for so long. Look, I'm an 80s child, okay? I love 80s music. I have a whole ITunes file full of 80s music, which drives my kids crazy. It would have been nice to hear a new version of Roxanne, but I guess that's the whole point of a reunion, is to hear the classics.
Other notable perfomances were John Legend, John Mayer and Corinne Bailey Rae. Wyclef Jean and Shakira were great, too--I'd die to have her belly. It was so perfect! I thought Beyonce looked glam as usual, but her song didn't really do it for me. But I was happy the most about MJB. She's been around forever, had her ups and downs, but she's back, stronger than ever. Her new song, Be Without You, is awesome, but I also love her classics, like Sweet Thing. It's nice to see that she finally got the recognition she deserved.
Then of course, there's Justin Timberlake. I think I'm in love with him. Not in a I have to have him kind of way, but in a totally fan-nish way. Out of all the boy bands that were so big for a while, I think he's the only one who really made it big, because he is incredibly talented. He can sing, he can dance, and yes, he even plays instruments.
His duet with the Grammy moment winner was simply well-done. The lucky girl pulled it off, too. She had a great voice, she was poised, and most important of all, she could carry a tune.
I'm totally into JT at the moment, even my Blackberry's ring tone is one of his songs. Hey, what the heck, right? He brought sexy back, after all. *g*
It was nice to see the Police together again for so long. Look, I'm an 80s child, okay? I love 80s music. I have a whole ITunes file full of 80s music, which drives my kids crazy. It would have been nice to hear a new version of Roxanne, but I guess that's the whole point of a reunion, is to hear the classics.
Other notable perfomances were John Legend, John Mayer and Corinne Bailey Rae. Wyclef Jean and Shakira were great, too--I'd die to have her belly. It was so perfect! I thought Beyonce looked glam as usual, but her song didn't really do it for me. But I was happy the most about MJB. She's been around forever, had her ups and downs, but she's back, stronger than ever. Her new song, Be Without You, is awesome, but I also love her classics, like Sweet Thing. It's nice to see that she finally got the recognition she deserved.
Then of course, there's Justin Timberlake. I think I'm in love with him. Not in a I have to have him kind of way, but in a totally fan-nish way. Out of all the boy bands that were so big for a while, I think he's the only one who really made it big, because he is incredibly talented. He can sing, he can dance, and yes, he even plays instruments.
His duet with the Grammy moment winner was simply well-done. The lucky girl pulled it off, too. She had a great voice, she was poised, and most important of all, she could carry a tune.
I'm totally into JT at the moment, even my Blackberry's ring tone is one of his songs. Hey, what the heck, right? He brought sexy back, after all. *g*
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Cleaning House
I haven't been around for a couple of weeks and for that, I apologize. Never mind that I seem to be apologizing forever to all of you for being constantly absent. I'm trying, I really am, to fit everything into the 24 hours that I'm given everyday. Sadly, I'm not very good at it. *g*
When January came around, my husband and I agreed to start cleaning up the clutter in our house. Now it's a pretty sizeable house, mind you, so we've decided to take it one space at a time. We tackled the messiest place to begin with--our closet. I'm no Martha Stewart, I assure you. I confess to having a cleaning lady come once a week and do the hard stuff. You know, the floors, the bathrooms, the whole house, really. But I draw the line at having my laundry done. There's something about having somebody else touch my clothes (read: undies) that really give me the creeps. It's too personal, if you know what I mean. Although there are days when I'm tempted to have her do that, too, when I look at the heaping mound of clothes to be done. There's only four of us in this family, but we produce enough dirty laundry that a family of eight probably would. Grrr!
Anyway, I digress. Looking at my closet, I never realized how much clothes I've accumulated over the years, and most of them, I haven't worn in a long time. I'm not a clotheshorse, trust me, but I never realized I had so many freaking clothes. There were a number of them that were two or three sizes too small. Yeah, yeah, that was eons ago when I was actually a lot skinnier than I am now. LOL. So they all had to go. My husband and I packed them in boxes and bags. By the time we were done, we had five boxes full of clothes and a smattering of large plastic bags containing even more. Even my kids pitched in and cleaned out their stuff. Mind-boggling!
Look at that! Isn't it pretty? I can actually see the floor of my closet. You'll also see from the picture that my husband has arranged his clothes (top photo) by color. How disgusting is that? He's forever trying to get me to do the same, but I resist. In a bid to retain my independence, I have steadfastly refused. LOL. It's just an excuse, really. I'll get to it someday. Hey, it only took me about seven years to clean my closet. In another seven, I'll color coordinate my clothes, too!
When January came around, my husband and I agreed to start cleaning up the clutter in our house. Now it's a pretty sizeable house, mind you, so we've decided to take it one space at a time. We tackled the messiest place to begin with--our closet. I'm no Martha Stewart, I assure you. I confess to having a cleaning lady come once a week and do the hard stuff. You know, the floors, the bathrooms, the whole house, really. But I draw the line at having my laundry done. There's something about having somebody else touch my clothes (read: undies) that really give me the creeps. It's too personal, if you know what I mean. Although there are days when I'm tempted to have her do that, too, when I look at the heaping mound of clothes to be done. There's only four of us in this family, but we produce enough dirty laundry that a family of eight probably would. Grrr!
Anyway, I digress. Looking at my closet, I never realized how much clothes I've accumulated over the years, and most of them, I haven't worn in a long time. I'm not a clotheshorse, trust me, but I never realized I had so many freaking clothes. There were a number of them that were two or three sizes too small. Yeah, yeah, that was eons ago when I was actually a lot skinnier than I am now. LOL. So they all had to go. My husband and I packed them in boxes and bags. By the time we were done, we had five boxes full of clothes and a smattering of large plastic bags containing even more. Even my kids pitched in and cleaned out their stuff. Mind-boggling!
Look at that! Isn't it pretty? I can actually see the floor of my closet. You'll also see from the picture that my husband has arranged his clothes (top photo) by color. How disgusting is that? He's forever trying to get me to do the same, but I resist. In a bid to retain my independence, I have steadfastly refused. LOL. It's just an excuse, really. I'll get to it someday. Hey, it only took me about seven years to clean my closet. In another seven, I'll color coordinate my clothes, too!
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Can Covers Make or Break A Book?
Fair question, isn't it? How many times have we read smart-alecky, snarky comments about covers? Some are well-deserved, that's for sure. Others poke fun -- if you haven't been to Bam's blog, you've got to check out her cover snarks here. She's simply hilarious.
How much impact does a cover have on a book?
A cover tells a lot about the story. The mood, the theme, the overall feel. It is the first thing a reader sees. A vampire/werewolf book would typically have a dark mood, emphasizing the darkness of the creatures/humans that are the main characters in the story. A chick-lit would often have a cartoon in the front, indicative of light humor. BDSM? Usually a cover that involves handcuffs or any instrument that would bring to mind bondage. Sounds simple and straightforward enough. You would think. *g* Here's a sample of a cover that I think is really hot:
Nice, isn't it? It's sexy yet understated. Tells you right away it's erotic. The arm around the woman screams possession, mastery. (Or am I reading too much into it? LOL)I really liked it. And no, I don't write for that publisher, nor do I know the author. But I do like the cover.
An attractive cover will certainly draw the reader's eye, enough to make her pick up the book and read the blurb -- or in the case of ebooks, click on it and check out the blurb. Dramatic colors and evocative poses help, too. Romances almost always feature "clinch" covers. Lately, covers have been more daring. A body part here, a buttock there. Hey, we've all seen the hot EC covers. *g*
On the flip side, there are covers that just suck great, big, hairy donkey balls. This can be somewhat of a death knell for a well-written book. An ugly cover can turn off a reader before she even ventures to read the blurb. As an author, how much control do we have over covers? Some, but not a lot. I have a vision for my covers, and I try my best to communicate that to the cover artist. Of course, there are always things that will limit the cover artists, like budget, availability of photos, etc, etc. That's where computer programs come in. Remember, it's a business, folks. Bottom line is the profit margin.
So yes, I think covers play a large part in a book's success. Of course, it's still up to the author to weave a gripping plot line to hook a reader from start to finish. Then again, you don't want to lose a reader before she even reads the story. A beautiful cover is like icing on a delicious cake.
Feel free to point me to covers that you love. Better yet, tell me of some horrendous ones you know. *g*
How much impact does a cover have on a book?
A cover tells a lot about the story. The mood, the theme, the overall feel. It is the first thing a reader sees. A vampire/werewolf book would typically have a dark mood, emphasizing the darkness of the creatures/humans that are the main characters in the story. A chick-lit would often have a cartoon in the front, indicative of light humor. BDSM? Usually a cover that involves handcuffs or any instrument that would bring to mind bondage. Sounds simple and straightforward enough. You would think. *g* Here's a sample of a cover that I think is really hot:
Nice, isn't it? It's sexy yet understated. Tells you right away it's erotic. The arm around the woman screams possession, mastery. (Or am I reading too much into it? LOL)I really liked it. And no, I don't write for that publisher, nor do I know the author. But I do like the cover.
An attractive cover will certainly draw the reader's eye, enough to make her pick up the book and read the blurb -- or in the case of ebooks, click on it and check out the blurb. Dramatic colors and evocative poses help, too. Romances almost always feature "clinch" covers. Lately, covers have been more daring. A body part here, a buttock there. Hey, we've all seen the hot EC covers. *g*
On the flip side, there are covers that just suck great, big, hairy donkey balls. This can be somewhat of a death knell for a well-written book. An ugly cover can turn off a reader before she even ventures to read the blurb. As an author, how much control do we have over covers? Some, but not a lot. I have a vision for my covers, and I try my best to communicate that to the cover artist. Of course, there are always things that will limit the cover artists, like budget, availability of photos, etc, etc. That's where computer programs come in. Remember, it's a business, folks. Bottom line is the profit margin.
So yes, I think covers play a large part in a book's success. Of course, it's still up to the author to weave a gripping plot line to hook a reader from start to finish. Then again, you don't want to lose a reader before she even reads the story. A beautiful cover is like icing on a delicious cake.
Feel free to point me to covers that you love. Better yet, tell me of some horrendous ones you know. *g*
Friday, January 12, 2007
Bandar: Pursuit of Pleasure Available Today
The third book in my Bandar series for Changeling is available today. Pursuit of Pleasure is the story of Dax and Ariana, and the race across space to save her family and her home. To read an excerpt, you can go http://www.changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=512. As always, you can let me know what you think of the story. I'm a little bit torn because I think this is the last of my Bandar series. I really don't want to see it end.
We'll see what the muse says. Happy reading!
We'll see what the muse says. Happy reading!
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Too Much Sex?
When I was in my early teens, I read Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys. But when I started imagining Nancy in love with the Hardy Boys, I knew it was time for a change. No kidding. And that's when I discovered the lovely world of romance books. Like most other readers, I grew up reading series romance. Over the years, their appeal began to pall. I wanted more. More details, more sex. Don't lead up to the bedroom and shut the door in my face. I've been with you through all the preliminary stuff. Let me in on the good stuff, too. Right? This is about the time I discovered Ellora's Cave. Pretty soon, I finished a manuscript and turned it in. Hallelujah, they got back to me within a couple of weeks and wanted it! That was Abduction of Emma. The rest, as you know, is history.
I came across a pretty interesting discussion the other day in one of the lists I belong to. The topic was about sex and having to put too much of it in a book. What snagged my attention was the fact that some bemoaned the fact that they were being asked to add more sex to their finished stories. I guess I'm fortunate enough that I've never been asked to do that. What that says about me, I don't know. You tell me. *g*
When I write, I don't consciously tell myself that I have to put a certain number of sex scenes in it. To me, if I do that, it will come across as forced. It disturbs the natural flow of the story and will seem out of place. I can't insert a sex scene in the middle of a chapter for the sake of it. But having said that, I also have to keep it mind that I am writing an erotic romance. The plot, while it can involve other elements (paranormal, suspense, vampire or what-have-you) has to revolve around romance and the development of it and of course, sex (which comes naturally with romance, IMO).
I've heard some people grouse that you can't have sex every ten pages. True, you can't. But what sex the story does have, it's got to work. You have to delve deep in the reader's emotions. Make them feel every sensation the characters feel. Add sensory details. What's the heroine feeling, smelling, touching? What does the room look like? The atmosphere? Even if it's a short sex scene (like some romantic suspense I've read lately. I found myself turning the pages and gasping when there wasn't anymore), you've got to ramp up the heat. Turn it up a couple of notches and make it satisfying.
If you're having to add more sex to a finished book, maybe it's not erotic romance, you know? Maybe it's conventional romance that's being spiced up to be erotic.
I came across a pretty interesting discussion the other day in one of the lists I belong to. The topic was about sex and having to put too much of it in a book. What snagged my attention was the fact that some bemoaned the fact that they were being asked to add more sex to their finished stories. I guess I'm fortunate enough that I've never been asked to do that. What that says about me, I don't know. You tell me. *g*
When I write, I don't consciously tell myself that I have to put a certain number of sex scenes in it. To me, if I do that, it will come across as forced. It disturbs the natural flow of the story and will seem out of place. I can't insert a sex scene in the middle of a chapter for the sake of it. But having said that, I also have to keep it mind that I am writing an erotic romance. The plot, while it can involve other elements (paranormal, suspense, vampire or what-have-you) has to revolve around romance and the development of it and of course, sex (which comes naturally with romance, IMO).
I've heard some people grouse that you can't have sex every ten pages. True, you can't. But what sex the story does have, it's got to work. You have to delve deep in the reader's emotions. Make them feel every sensation the characters feel. Add sensory details. What's the heroine feeling, smelling, touching? What does the room look like? The atmosphere? Even if it's a short sex scene (like some romantic suspense I've read lately. I found myself turning the pages and gasping when there wasn't anymore), you've got to ramp up the heat. Turn it up a couple of notches and make it satisfying.
If you're having to add more sex to a finished book, maybe it's not erotic romance, you know? Maybe it's conventional romance that's being spiced up to be erotic.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Resolutions
Every year, like millions of people out there, I write down some resolutions that I'd like to fulfill for the next 365 days. All in the name of becoming a better me!
Here's a few I'd like to share with you.
1) Lose the extra weight I've been carrying around. This is a universal resolution. Everybody wants to lose weight. Just don't write me and tell me you need to lose three or five pounds. Puh-leeze. Don't make me sick.
2) Addendum to #1. Use the treadmill and elliptical for the express purpose of exercise. They're pretty much furniture right now. LOL.
3) Make more at-home meals instead of eating out. In a perfect world, you'll find me in the kitchen every night, wearing an apron over my dress, whipping up delicious, nutritious home-cooked meals. Reality is, I'm not able to do that most of the time. I'd love to, though. Eating out gets old after a while. Plus, it can drastically cut down on expenses.
4) Be more sociable. Believe it or not, I'd rather stay home with a good book than party. I'm the complete opposite of my husband, who is very outgoing, knows practically everyone and will talk to all of them every chance he gets. I always tell my kids I'm moving to an island somewhere when I retire. They think I'm kidding. Not.
5) Travel. I'd like to take a few weeks in the summer to explore Europe. My idea of a good time would be to get lost in ancient castles and spend hours exploring. Less work, more fun kind of thing. Of course, this is more like a dream, really, than a resolution. LOL.
6)Write faster. Okay, faster might be the wrong term. While I've matured a lot in the past few years that I've been writing, I haven't gotten to the level where I'm comfortable putting out books on a regular basis. I'd like to get to the point where I have three or four books in the cue--without sacrificing quality and plot. Damn it, life. Stop intruding!
7)Try New York. This year, I'd like to try my hand at submitting to a NY pub (again). Last year, I received ONE rejection letter and I consider that my rite of passage. Time to get back on the horse and try to ride that baby one more time.
8) Clean out my closet. Y'all know what I mean. If it hasn't been used in a couple of years, it ain't never gonna be used at all. Throw it out.
9) Other women have Blahnik or Choo fetishes. Mine is for cute, fashionable sneakers. I have more than a dozen pairs that I wear, and more stowed in boxes in the garage. Have got to STOP shopping for sneakers.
10) I'd like to be a better wife and mother in the sense that I'd like to have more patience and cut down on the hormonal rants (another term for pms). Hey, I can dream, can't I?
I will keep my resolutions to ten only. Gotta keep it realistic and most of all, doable. If you have any good ones you'd like to share, let me know. I just might add it to my list.
Here's a few I'd like to share with you.
1) Lose the extra weight I've been carrying around. This is a universal resolution. Everybody wants to lose weight. Just don't write me and tell me you need to lose three or five pounds. Puh-leeze. Don't make me sick.
2) Addendum to #1. Use the treadmill and elliptical for the express purpose of exercise. They're pretty much furniture right now. LOL.
3) Make more at-home meals instead of eating out. In a perfect world, you'll find me in the kitchen every night, wearing an apron over my dress, whipping up delicious, nutritious home-cooked meals. Reality is, I'm not able to do that most of the time. I'd love to, though. Eating out gets old after a while. Plus, it can drastically cut down on expenses.
4) Be more sociable. Believe it or not, I'd rather stay home with a good book than party. I'm the complete opposite of my husband, who is very outgoing, knows practically everyone and will talk to all of them every chance he gets. I always tell my kids I'm moving to an island somewhere when I retire. They think I'm kidding. Not.
5) Travel. I'd like to take a few weeks in the summer to explore Europe. My idea of a good time would be to get lost in ancient castles and spend hours exploring. Less work, more fun kind of thing. Of course, this is more like a dream, really, than a resolution. LOL.
6)Write faster. Okay, faster might be the wrong term. While I've matured a lot in the past few years that I've been writing, I haven't gotten to the level where I'm comfortable putting out books on a regular basis. I'd like to get to the point where I have three or four books in the cue--without sacrificing quality and plot. Damn it, life. Stop intruding!
7)Try New York. This year, I'd like to try my hand at submitting to a NY pub (again). Last year, I received ONE rejection letter and I consider that my rite of passage. Time to get back on the horse and try to ride that baby one more time.
8) Clean out my closet. Y'all know what I mean. If it hasn't been used in a couple of years, it ain't never gonna be used at all. Throw it out.
9) Other women have Blahnik or Choo fetishes. Mine is for cute, fashionable sneakers. I have more than a dozen pairs that I wear, and more stowed in boxes in the garage. Have got to STOP shopping for sneakers.
10) I'd like to be a better wife and mother in the sense that I'd like to have more patience and cut down on the hormonal rants (another term for pms). Hey, I can dream, can't I?
I will keep my resolutions to ten only. Gotta keep it realistic and most of all, doable. If you have any good ones you'd like to share, let me know. I just might add it to my list.
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