Does it make ya wanna cryyyyy?

Last weekend I was out of town. My daughter and I headed to Dallas to do some things, head for the malls, that sort of thing. We'd signed her up for heavy-duty aptitude testing to give her some good ideas about things she might major in when she goes off to college this fall. All very scientific.

Anyway, I sat for hours waiting for her and I took along some books to keep me company. Recently I've become friends with author, Bronwyn Green. Bron writes for Ellora's Cave, Total E Bound, and Resplendence. Very talented. Know what I loooove about her work? The emotional punch she packs. Sure her work is ero/rom but it's not all about the mechanics of the sex acts, but about the way the characters FEEL when they are doing them. I like to think that's something I bring to my stories, too. Lately, I've read a lot of what I'd have to say are good books but they lack that POP, that emotional SIZZLE, that I've found I want in a good story.

Do you want to hug the book when it's over? Do you sigh and think....WOW! That MOVED ME!

I know publishers push for more and more sex, more kink, more, more, more but damn, don't they want some story with that? I certainly do. I don't want to read a gluttonous display of over the top sex featuring wooden characters who apparently have no feelings other than the physical kind. I want to know what she's thinking when the hero touches her in a certain way. I want to know if the hero is moved by more than her bedroom moves and if he IS moved...why?

To me, the added details of what makes a character behave the way they do is what makes a good story. Yes, I write sex. A lot of sex. But you know what? I'm going to have some story too.


Other News:

Please head out to Ellora's Cave today and check out Barbara Huffert's newest. Hot Rush is an action packed romp you won't want to put down.

Buy it here!

Blurb:

Rick Jensen is working undercover to bust up the largest drug distribution in the city’s recent history. Everything is going as planned until the hottest redhead he’s ever seen comes storming into the warehouse. Now if only he can stop thinking with his cock long enough to save her luscious ass and convince her that love at first sight really does exist.

Being sentimental has always been Casey Carmichael’s downfall. But this time her impulsiveness lands her right in the middle of a full contingent of heavily armed drug dealers. When one of them tosses her over his shoulder and carries her up to the office the last thing she expects is out of control sex with the undercover cop trying to protect her.

two thumbs down

So, what is it for you that makes or breaks a book? For me it's not always a plot hole or anything major. It's more about the little things.

I was reading a story the other day and I realized I had no interest in finishing it. Why? Because the heroine was too perfect. It took me several chapters to realize that's what was bothering me though. The writing is good, the hero sexy, the plot interesting, but I just couldn't stand to see one more reference about how GORGEOUS this woman was. It finally got to be too much. I put the book down and moved on.

I don't know. I guess I'm somewhat disappointed in myself because I feel shallow for hating the book simply because of that one issue. I've read lots of books with hot, sexy, beautiful heroines. For the most part the heroine's description is mentioned somewhere, but it's not thrown in your face multiple times. Usually I could care less what she looks like. I'm more interested in the developing relationship.

Shouldn't I still read the book though? It's not like it's a bad storyline. As always, I won't give up on this author. I didn't like this one story, that doesn't mean I'll hate them all.

This got me thinking, which is never good. LOL Have you ever read one little thing in a book and it ruined the entire thing for you? Not even a big thing, just something small. Am I shallow for hating this book based on the heroine's GORGEOUS looks?? I feel horrible here!

Woo hoo!

I woke up to find an awesome review for my erotic romance, Satisfy Me, this morning that made me all giddy. This is what the reviewer had to say...



Holy hot neighbor sex, Batman! This was one steamy read! I love a story that starts in the hero’s point of view because the way a man thinks fascinates me. Tyson Malone didn’t disappoint me, he’s all alpha male, right down to his manly talk and gutter mind. And his mind can’t stop thinking about his lovely new neighbor, Maggie Johnson. When he blurts out how hot he thinks she is, she’s shocked – no man has ever said such things to her. So, she propositions him for a sex-only relationship. It doesn’t take long for both of them to start realizing there’s more to their attraction than just sex though and it’s fun to watch their relationship develop into something deeper. And I always say the bigger they are, the harder they fall. Ty Malone definitely falls for the girl next door! Madison Scott is a great writer with dead on instincts for portraying how a man thinks and feels about sex and love and Maggie’s feelings felt realistic to me as well.

Full review HERE
Buy HERE

What gets you giddy on a Sunday morning?

My kitty Max

This is Max, named after Maximum Ride, which is my oldest daughter's favorite book series.

We knew right from the start she'd be special. She just had this attitude. Today, I'm dedicating this blog to her. :)

It was a ridiculously hot day last summer. The girls and I went for our walk up the road and on our way back this tiny ball of fur comes tumbling out of the corn field. She was no bigger than a speck a fuzz. Of course we couldn't leave her! Who knows what might have happened. We looked around at first to see if we could see a mother or something, but nothing. So, we brought her home and gave her some milk. She ate as if starved.

When my husband came home and saw her, his reaction was as we expected. No way, no how. No more cats. LOL We already had two indoor cats and one outdoor cat. So, he wasn't crazy about adding another one. I pleaded with him, swore she'd stay outside, and finally he caved. Three women against one guy. He didn't stand a chance. LOL

Our outdoor cat swiftly became our indoor cat when it became clear she would not be stuck outside. Again, attitude. Little by little she started coming in. Soon, she was getting into the trash, climbing the curtains and basically just driving us crazy with her outrageous stunts. When she knocked the angel off the top of the tree and took off under the bed, we knew. She'd become part of our strange pack.

Max has kept us laughing from day one. She's still tiny as hell, but she thinks she's a moutain lion. Well, yesterday, we had to take Max into the vet to get her fixed. All the way there I was a nervous wreck. I worried because of her size. She's so little! Then I worried that we'd have to leave her there. Alone. In a strange place. Sad and scared. When we arrived, Max was terrified. Other animals barking and meowing. She was way out of her comfort zone. When the vet told us Max won't in fact be staying there overnight my anxiety lessoned. I still hated leaving her, but a few hours I can handle.

When we picked her up she looked so pathetic. Groggy, vulnerable, her big eyes trying to focus and come out of that drugged state. When she heard our voices her little heart started beating faster, I swear she knew. She looked at me as if saying, 'you didn't abandon me!'

We got her home and I sat with her on my lap for awhile, stroking her, letting her know we love her. She started to come out of it a bit and tried out her legs, fell several times. It was so pathetic.

The girls sat up with her a bit last night, my oldest is a nightowl anyway, and helped her to the litter box. Today, she's sleeping it off on top of a pile of dirty clothes. The best part, she's home, she's safe and I never want to go through that again!

Pets are such a huge part of our life. My girls, my husband and I would be lost without Buddy, Cinnamon, Sassy, Mittens, Sugar and Max. They've brough us so much joy. Their silly antics keep us laughing. I realized yesterday just how close I'd gotten to Max.

All I can say is, I'm just so thrilled we were there the day she came tumbling out of that field.

What would we do without our pets, right?

Please Welcome Ellora's Cave Author Fran Lee

NOTE: Before I get started I'd like to announce the winner of Kelley's contest from yesterday is flchen 1. YAY!!!! Congrats! Please drop Kelley a note at writermadisonscott@yahoo.com to claim your looooovely prize!

One of my most 'funner than fun' friends is author Fran Lee! I'm not kidding people, this woman is a hoot. Not only is she fun but she is amazingly talented and one of the most generous people I know. So please help me welcome her today.

I've always thought it was important for authors to support each other and I've seldom been disappointed in the generosity of those I come in contact with on a daily basis. As for Fran, she is quick to post an impromptu review or host us on her Examiner blog or any of her other 'fun spots'. Sometimes I wonder how she finds time to pen her steamy stuff because usually she's coming up with another spectacular way to help her fellow authors and friends. Lately, she has been in 'trailer-making-mode' and we have all reaped the benefits. She has done three trailers for me, including Feral Moon, Highland Beast, and my upcoming Lone Star Lycan.

Her first Ellora's Cave title is Out of Her Dreams. Just came out a few weeks ago so please stop by Jasmine Jade and pick up a copy HERE!

The following question and answer session is my meager attempt to give something back to a generous and talented friend. I highly recommend her work which includes not only her current release but her upcoming titles available through both Ellora's Cave and Resplendence Publishing. So please help me welcome the outrageous Fran Lee!

When did you decide you wanted to write, Fran? Was it something that was always with you or did it hit like a bolt of lightning?

I have been writing for pleasure since I was 8…just little Halloween stories or Christmas ones. In the 6th grade I tried a Tolstoy-ish composition that I figured would make me a writer, but gave up after about 10 pages. I knew absolutely nothing about the subject I wrote about, and decided to quit while I was ahead. :PAt fourteen, I would be walking along and suddenly a thought would strike from nowhere, and I would find myself composing scenes between H/H’s in my mind. I often spoke the scenes aloud (which got me some very weird looks). Then I would go home and write a few pages down. Later on, I picked up the “starts” and continued writing on them, adding to them bit by bit. I never tossed anything away. I still find bits and pieces of short stories and 25-page epics in storage. LOL!

What authors inspired you to write your OWN book of your heart?

When I was twelve, I found my mom’s ancient, dog-eared copy of “The Sheikh”, by E.M. Hull. When my mom told me E.M. Hull was a lady, I was ecstatic. After that, I read any romance book I could find. I sneaked my aunt’s Georgette Heyer books and always put them back (she knew I was borrowing them, I found out later). Then I found Barbara Cartland. (You can tell how old I am by these books, right?)Then I graduated to Harlequins. Then to erotic romance novels. I found a whole passel of hot paperback romances by Jude Deveraux, Kathleen Woodiwiss, and others. The list goes on and on.

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

Oh, wow…I thought I’d escaped that one! :P Okay…I’m officially “old”. I passed the mark quite a while back after turning 39 and starting to count backwards. That means I am now about 15.I had a mad passion for horses when I was a kid, and over the years, I have been honored to own a few of the noble beasties. Now I satisfy my passion by collecting antique and vintage metal horse statues and old Marx toys with horses in them. They are easier to feed and there’s absolutely no upkeep cost. JI own over 1,000 paper and ink books. I own over 1,000 movies on VHS and DVD. I hold a second-degree black belt in Kenpo. I used to travel the martial arts tournament circuits and do photo-journalist work, and write up karate tournaments for an international karate league’s magazine. I also submitted articles to the big glossy MA magazines, and had a few printed. I still do a bit of teaching.I have three adult kids, one adult grandchild, five younger grandkids, and a ball python, a leopard gecko, a 20-year-old fluffy tabby cat, and I still live in the 52 year old house my folks bought new. Um…I’ll shut up now.

What is a day like in "Fran's World"?

Oh, Lordy! No day is exactly like any other, I’m afraid. Right now I have my younger son and his family living with me until they scrape up the down payment for a home. I also have an older grandson living with me. It’s just a tad bit crowded, but it’s been fun.I get up as soon as I’ve had my 5-7 hours of sleep, so if I don’t get to bed until 7 a.m., I get up at noon. I turn on my computer. I check my 200-500 e-mails. Chat on my loops a bit. Check out all my loops and blogsites and websites to see what’s happened. Check my Examiner.com site to make comments. Yogurt time. Do some laundry. Chocolate time. Sweep a floor to get all the cookie crumbs up. Sit down at the computer. Soup and sandwich time. Work on promos for my books. Yell at the little ones to stop running through the house like cavalry. Go help the littlest one to fix something he broke. (He’s three.) Sit down to write a bit. Go put the laundry in the dryer. Enjoy whatever wonderful meal my son and daughter-in-law have prepared for me while I’m buried behind my door.By 9 p.m. the kids are in bed, and I sit down to work edits, connect with people, answer e-mails again, and chat on my loops a bit so people will know I’m still alive. Upload my Examiner column at midnight. Write some more. Discuss things with my editor who lives in Australia (it’s daytime over there). I fall asleep at the keyboard, hit my nose on the monitor, and shut it down to start all over again tomorrow.

Do you set daily writing goals or just write when the spirit moves you?

What keeps you motivated? Goals? Spell that, please. Oh, yeah! Goals…hmmm. Nope. No goals. Most of my stuff was written long ago. All I try to keep up on is the edits, the rewrites when I need to, and those are my priority. Once these edits are finished and those books are in the can, then I will polish up another old one and send it off. I am not a person who sets goals. If I set one, it gets destroyed. I get far more done by the “seat of the pants” method of working. I do what I gotta do, and I do it fast. Motivation? Spell that please…

Are there any writing genres you haven't tried yet but would like to?

What is your favorite genre to read? First, let me address the one about reading. I adore reading paranormal romance, shape shifter and werewolf and vampire and all that. I love to read erotic romance where the author handles the “erotic” part with flair and class. I love a great “story” with my erotic romance. If it’s just gratuitous sex with more “C’ words and “P” words than plot, I sigh and set it aside, and reach for the next book. “Erotic” does not have to equate with smut and plotless porn.I love writing erotic contemporary, but my “contemporary” almost always has a paranormal twist tossed in. Like Out of Her Dreams, where H/H both have dreamed about someone to fill their “gaps” as Rocky would say. And Dictated by Fate, where the hero’s mom’s spirit whispers in his ear telling him what a schmuck he is. It’s always something that pops into my writing.I loved writing Hallie’s Cats, (which, BTW, I wrote in less than an hour and as a hoot) just to try my hand at shape shifters. Again, once I sat down to write, the words just poured out and next thing I knew it was 2 a.m. I edited the next day, added some background stuff, and submitted.

What kinds of promotion do you like to pursue?

Anything I can get my hands on! LOL! I have several blogs and a website (Non-professionally done) and I have joined with other authors in their collaborative blogs. I started the Examiner.com thing to help other authors, but once in a while I do a shameless self-promotion on there. :PI saw some book teasers on YouTube, and worked until I found a way to make my own. Then I started making them for other authors who didn’t have one anywhere. I have my own channel on YouTube and do what I can to promote everyone’s trailers on that site. (Google “dragonlady10”)I stay connected with hundreds of authors and dozens of groups and even set up a loop of my own on Yahoo Groups just for fun. JI had bookmarks made up using my book covers, and had calendar magnets done too. T-shirts…baseball caps, you name it! I even had a few shopping bags made up, and people in stores look at them and I can see them writing down the URLs. I ran a contest on my website during the promotion of my new release, and was shocked to find 400 hits on the website in two days.But the best thing you can do to promote yourself is to promote others. I am a firm believer in Karma. What you put out into the cosmos comes back at you. So be darned careful what you toss out there. LOL!

Tell us about your next project. When does it release and what is it about?

My next release is Hallie’s Cats. Coming out July 31 from Ellora’s Cave. I made a teaser before I got a cover.

You can see it here:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GiBJo6aGt4

Here’s a blurb:

Hallie James loves cats – she just never realized she was one, herself. Not until she met the delicious brothers, Gar and Cal, one sinfully dark, the other beautifully golden. Moving to Rutledge NE was a desperate move to escape from an ugly divorce and to start a new life. But just how new, she had never imagined!Her car dead – her money as low as her spirits – Hallie is struggling to keep a roof over her head. Then one terrifying meeting with a runaway pit bull lands her on her butt on the sidewalk, crying over spilled milk – literally! But when the dog's owner appears out of nowhere, and asks if she's all right, Hallie has the most shocking reaction to his nearness.Gar and his little brother Cal have lived safely and comfortably in the big estate house left them by someone they helped long ago. Cal is getting restless…he’s passing into his sexual prime and there’s not a female leopard to be had. Gar is worried that he’ll start setting his sights on human females…specifically, Hallie James. And Gar has his own plans in that direction… he doesn’t mind sharing, but he won’t settle for anything less than the alpha share.

Another Malone is coming!

I just signed a new contract under my counterpart for the second book in the Malone Brothers series! This is a smokin' hot series about three sexy brothers who own a construction company in the small town of Last Chance. To celebrate book two, Bliss, I decided to give away a FREE copy of Satisfy Me to one commenter. Tomorrow, Anne will post the winner with her post. Easy as pie :) Here's a little about Satisfy Me.

Blurb:Tyson Malone is being stalked by a ghost. Between bouts of calling him Sugar Lips and Hot Cakes, the apparition makes it her goal to get Ty together with his sexy neighbor, Maggie Jacobson. Unfortunately, for her, Ty doesn’t do the relationship thing. He does sex with a no relationship clause. One look at Maggie is all it takes to know she’s a relationship kind of woman.Maggie is tired of living her life the way others dictate. When her mom leaves her a journal left behind by a grandmother she never met, Maggie is inspired. This brave woman lived her life by her own set of rules and Maggie is ready to do the same. After moving to a new town, she meets Ty, a man who inspires her in a whole new, very sexual way. Taking control for the first time in her life, Maggie propositions him with a no strings affair. Soon they begin a journey to sexual satisfaction and bringing her fantasies to life.
KINKS: outdoor sex, masturbation/voyeurism, food play, light bondage, dirty talk
A pushy ghost and a gorgeous redhead--a man doesn’t stand a chance!
Excerpt:
A knock at the door jarred her from her thoughts. “Come in,” Maggie called out while she finished slipping into a pair of tennis shoes. No one else would be at her house at six AM but Tyson. A click sounded followed by a creak. “Hey, you.”
His brow creased. “Why didn’t you make sure it was me before yelling to come in? Better yet, why isn’t the door locked?”
“Pfft. This is Last Chance. Half the people in this town probably leave their doors unlocked.”“Just because they’re stupid doesn’t mean you should be. You’re a woman living alone. Lock your doors.”
His order should have angered her but for some reason it made her heart do a funny little flutter instead. He worried about her and dumb as it was, that made her feel good. Maggie stood up. “I usually do leave it locked. I knew you’d be coming over so I unlocked it a few minutes ago.”
“Next time wait until I get here. Anyone could have been at the door.”Maggie shook her head. Men! Always had to be macho. “What are we doing?” She knew he planned to take her camping but other than that he hadn’t given her many clues about their day. After she’d told him some of her fantasies he told her to be ready this morning for a trip. Somehow sex would be tied in. She just wasn’t sure how.
“The river.” He didn’t elaborate any further. His voice turned husky as his chocolate eyes raked her up and down. Goosebumps pebbled on her skin following the trail of his gaze. “I tasted you all night, Maggie. The scent of your arousal clung to my body damn near giving me a wet dream when I thought about what it felt like inside your slippery walls.”
Wetness seeped from the folds of her sex soaking her panties. Tyson wrapped his arms around her, surrounding her in his warmth.“Did you think of me when you were all tucked into bed, baby?”
Had she ever. “Yes.” His hands squeezed the round globes of her ass. “Oh!”
“Did you do more than just think about me?”
How did he know? Come on, Mags. Tell him. Don’t get cold feet now. “Yes.”
“What did you do?”
“First I--”
“No, Maggie, show me. Don’t tell me.”
Her pulse pounded. Her core throbbed with the need to come. For Ty. To show him she could be wild, untamed, purely sexual. Maggie kicked her shoes from her feet and dropped her shorts and panties. Her limbs trembled in a mix of anticipation and fear.
“Look at that pretty pussy. Did you touch yourself, Maggie? Did you sink your fingers into your cunt?”
“I pretended it was you. I wanted it to be you.”
“It will be me but not right now. I want to see you push your delicate fingers into your hungry little kitty cat. Can you do that for me, baby?”
She never would have thought she could do something like this but looking at Tyson she knew she could.
Available Here
Reviews:
Madison packed humor, heat, sexy, and a whole lot of hot damyum sex in under fifty pages that makes a woman want that kind of talker in her bed. It’ll make you flush, make you hot, and make you see that sometimes it takes a ‘good’ girl to tame a ‘bad’ boy. Highest rates. Euro-Reviews Rating 5

Owww...RWA Makes My Head HURT!

Is it just me or does it seem that at least once a year there is a new uproar over something RWA did or did not do? Honestly, I am sick to death of these people. I joined RWA in 1992. I was a brand new writer, learning my craft and unpublished. This, I was told, was an organization who would support me and help me achieve my goal of becoming a published author. All I had to do was send them some money once a year. In return, they sent me a nifty little magazine once a month and they would also let me come to their yearly back-slapping, mutual admiration society convention, assuming I could afford the air fare, the fees, etc. to attend. Local chapters were all over the country but that didn't help me much because there isn't one near where I live. I've heard there are great local chapters that are very inclusive to e-pubbed writers and some who aren't accepting at all.



In the end, all it really allowed me was a feeling that I was never quite good enough. Even when I became published and actually started bringing in some pretty good money, I felt like the bastard child at the family reunion. The one who had to stay in the corner and not say too much. This was because I was e-published rather than "really published" by a big house in New York.



Over the weekend, I read tons of posts on loops and lots of blog posts about the recent kerfuffle with RWA and the RWA President. RWA Powers That Be are up to their old tricks. This is nothing new folks. They've tried for years to distance themselves from e-published writers and it will continue into infinity and beyond. If you're new to RWA, I understand your outrage perfectly. I felt the same way years and years ago. Finally, I just gave up and decided to drop my membership last summer because it was quite obvious to me that I would NEVER be good enough in their eyes. They continually go out of their way to de-value what we do.



They see e-publishing as just not quite good enough despite the fact there is plenty of quality writing and spellbinding stories coming from the e-publishing world and I know for a fact there are lots and lots of bad books to be found in brick and mortar stores. I actually LIKE the fact that I'm paid monthly and don't have to wait for six months or longer for a check.



Issues that have cause outrage over the years are almost too numerous to mention. E-publisher recognition, first sale ribbons, PRO and PAN qualifications. Several years ago they didn't want e-pubbed authors to sell their print books at the literacy booksigning because the covers were deemed too "naughty". BLECH. Oh, and don't forget the RITA and GOLDEN HEART. E-pubbed writers couldn't enter the RITA because, well, it's an e-pubbed book but yet, couldn't enter the GOLDEN HEART because, well, you're a published author despite the fact RWA doesn't really consider you a "legitimate" author. Hmmm. Then they began to set 'number of copies sold' limits for e-publishers yet they raised the numbers yearly to prevent a publisher from being 'recognized'. Each challenge was met but they kept raising the bar.



Bottom line folks. RWA will never treat e-published authors as anything other than a red-headed stepchild. I applaude those who are trying to promote change from within. I've heard that before too. It's been tried many times. Let me say straight off that I hope you are successful but I'm not holding my breath. RWA will never change. They refuse to see e-publishing as a viable option for both writers and readers and frankly, the world is progressing, looking forward, while they continue to preen about how they are 'real authors'.



Okay. Nuff said on that. I wish everyone luck. If a miracle happens and things DO change, I'll be first in line to re-up my membership. If not, no problem. I'll continue writing my ebooks and making money.

Summer + writing=pain in the ass

So, I've discovered that attempting to write in the summer is NOT an easy task. I could blame it on the kids being home, but that'd be a big fat lie. It's me. Allllll me. LOL

They've only been out a few weeks so far and already we've:

Gone to the movies.

Shopping, twice.

Visited the grandparents.

Gone to the park.

& spent a great deal of time watching rented movies.

This week the plan is to go hiking one day and also go see the new Transformers movie (can't wait!). Yep, I'm a bum. No doubt about it, I've been playing instead of working.

That's not to say I'm a complete loser. I HAVE gotten some work done. I've started a short story and it's moving along nicely, but still, it's slow because the weather is freaking gorgeous and I just don't feel like sitting in the house!

How do you all force yourself to write when you could be swimming, laying in the sun reading, browsing your favorite store at the mall, off on a picnic....see? It sounds inviting doesn't it? So, how do you MAKE yourself stay indoors??? Please, help me! My muse has taken a freakin' holiday here!!! LOL

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In other news, I got a GREAT review from Mrs. Giggles. Remember the gal who said one of my characters reminded her of Norman Bates? (that still cracks me up) Well, she's reviewed my latest release, Taking Chloe, which has been on the Samahin bestseller list for THREE WEEKS now! Yay!

Anyway, here's the review: Check it out!

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:::ALERT::::

The winner of J. K. Coi's contest the other day is "Michele H" Congrats!!!

You can email J. K. and let her know which ebook you want as your prize: jkcoi@rogers.com

It's my anniversary!

Tomorrow my hubby and I have been married for six years. We almost NEVER get to go do anything together. This time, he surprised me. He saved up a little money without me knowing and his mom and my mom will be babysitting tomorrow and we're going to spend the whole day in LA and Hollywood. It's funny, we've lived in California for 4.5 years but we've never spend the day there. We've never walked Sunset or looked at the stars on the Walk of Fame. Tomorrow that's what we'll be doing all day! We're getting up early and heading out. We'll grab some breakfast and then hit Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum, Wax Museum and The Guinness Book of World Records Museum. After that, depending on them time, we'll then do some touristy walk around kind of stuff. I want to the Walk of Fame, Hollywood Rock walk and just take in some fun things the city has to offer. We'll head to the Grove Farmers market where from what I hear, you almost always spot a celebrity or two. We'll have lunch. My friend who lives there told me about a little restaurant/bar that has half priced drinks and meals and drinks until 7:00 PM everyday. She mentioned getting both fish and chips and baby back ribs for 6-7 dollars which you can't beat. We'll do a little more walking around and then, just because I'm a dork, I want to walk Rodeo Drive. I'll never be able to afford anything there, but I've always wanted to check it out.

I can't tell you how excited I am. Both our moms work, his mom has two jobs so they aren't able to babysit often. I don't think we've done anything on our anniversary for about three years. We need a day for the two of us SO bad. We've been together almost 11 years, and married six and I still completely love him. I can't wait to have a day devoted to us.

Plundering the Pirates

Just before I went to bed last night, I was scrolling through the news reports on line and found a story that was very interesting. A 34 year old mom of four was found guilty of copyright infringment by a federal court for sharing music files on Kazaa. This was the second federal trial for the Minnesota housewife, who in February of 2005 downloaded 1700 copyrighted songs to Kazaa. A suit was filed against her by the Recording Industry of America. She'd shared the songs of Gloria Estefan, Sheryl Crow (one of my personal faves), Green Day, and many others.

Now this was her second trial. In the first, she was found guilty and fined over $200,00 but because the judge hadn't instructed the jury properly, the judgment was thrown out and a new trial was ordered.

Honestly, she should've take the first verdict and gone home because the jury did NOT like this thief in the second federal trial. This time the judge made his instructions to the jury very clear saying.. the act of downloading copyrighted sound recordings or distributing them to other users on peer-to-peer networks like Kazaa, without a license from the owners, are copyright violations.

Bottom line!


When the jury heard the story, they found her guilty and fined her a whopping $1.92 million (roughly $80,000 per song). Will the recording artists and their companies ever get that money from a Minnesota housewife? Unlikely. But in the end, that's not the point. A blow, in my opinion, was struck for all of us who have been systematically ripped off every time we see one of our books listed on these pirate sites. Our issues are roughly the same as those in the music industry. Thieves are stealing from us.

Lately the loops are burning up with talk of new pirate sites that steal our work and give it away for free. Many of us believe chasing them down doesn't do a whole lot of good because they pop right back up again.

Thing is, this is a huge blow to those who steal our work and put it on these file sharing sites. Another thing that might help? Many of these pirate sites transfer virus' onto computers. I'm betting if we got the word out about this, people would think twice before infecting their computers. I mean really, would you want to risk that when you could buy the roughly $5 book straight from the publishers site? I sure wouldn't.

Here's a copy of the link if you'd be interested in reading about the judgment.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/us_tec_music_downloading

We have J. K. Coi, a contest AND en exclusive excerpt!

We have a special guest today. J. K. Coi has agreed to an interview--and she's giving us an EXCLUSIVE excerpt as well. Cool, huh?!

Hi J. K.! Welcome to Three Wicked Writers!



TWW: First l’d like to say that I just read the excerpt for your newest release, Forever Immortal, and wow! I loved it! You can really pull in a reader. There was some serious sexual tension between Gideon and Lyssa and I loved every minute of it. Can you tell our readers more about this book?




JK: Thanks very much for having me Anne, Kelley, and Regina. I’m very excited to be here!

Forever Immortal is the 4th book in my Immortals series, and definitely my favourite to date. We meet Gideon in the first book, and he’s very content with his life. He’s doing exactly what he wants to do and he’s completely in control—at least until he’s forced to become an Immortal. Since then, nothing seems to be in his control, and he’s lived with the consequences of that for the last eight years.




Lyssa was a normal gal who just wanted a night on the town—maybe a chance to meet a guy, someone who wasn’t going to cheat on her and take advantage of her... Obviously, that was too much to ask.




Gideon and Lyssa apart are strong characters. But Gideon and Lyssa together are a fire that rages out of control. They create such sparks with their back and forth—mostly because their bond becomes so strong so fast, and they are both trying so hard to deny it.




Being the fourth book, I wanted this one to be deeper, stronger, more conflicted and more explosive. Luckily, these two characters wouldn’t have had it any other way. But also besides telling the story of Gideon and Lyssa, this book’s job was to take the war between the Immortals and the demons to a new level in preparation for the next phase of the series.




TWW: Do you have plans for more Immortals series books (please say yes, lol!)?




JK: As I mentioned before, Forever Immortal acts as a kind of turning point in this series, and to really finish telling the story, right now I have plans for two more books. I say “right now” because let’s face it, I’m mostly a pantser and while I’ve got a very loose idea of where this battle between warrior and demon is going, I can’t say for sure it will ultimately work out the way I invision it. I pretty much go with the flow, and sometimes the flow says that things are going to change. However, while there are probably going to be only two more Immortal books, I am starting a new series based on a vampire character that was introduced in these books.




TWW: You have two completely different series going at the same time. An urban fantasy called The Destiny Series. The First book, The Trouble With Destiny is already available for purchase. How many books are you planning to write in this series? Also, do you find it difficult to keep all these books and characters straight?




JK: Hah! In my head, I’ve already got a lot more than two series going :) But it isn’t as difficult as you might think to keep things straight. When I’m working on a particular book, I become immersed in that world and the creatures that inhabit it. One of the tricks to keeping it all in order is the style in which the books are written. The Immortal books are darker, and are told in third person—often from the point of view of the heroes. While Trouble With Destiny (which is due for re-release by Samhain Publishing in the near future) is written completely in the heroine’s first person point of view (a refreshing change when I sit down to write!)




TWW: There are a lot of paranormal authors out there, but from the excerpts I read, I can easily say you have a distinctive voice. Nevertheless, if you were forced to describe your own writing in one sentence what would you say?




JK: I pack a roller-coaster ride of emotional intensity into all of my characters, because I know that when I think about the books that that stick with me even after I’ve put them away on the shelf—it’s the ones that have had the most emotional punch that I really remember. The setting, the plot, the action and adventure are all good, but it’s the characters that make a truly memorable story, and I want to write characters that will suffer just as deeply as they will love, so that they live on in my readers’ memories even when the pages have stopped turning. (Whoa. Way more than one sentence. I hope I’m not getting penalized for that :))




TWW: I’m primarily a contemporary author myself so I’m always fascinated by paranormal authors. What’s your favorite part of writing this mega popular genre?




JK: I love being able to make my own rules. When I’m researching for my world, I do a lot of reading about demonology and ancient theology. And then when it comes time to write, I can take everything that I’ve read and mush it all together to come up with what I want. Because my world is my own, I can twist history and reality to suit me and that’s the best thing.




TWW: Can you tell us where readers can find you and your books? (Website, newsletter, myspace, facebook, etc.)




JK: Oh yes! Don’t forget, Forever Immortal is available now from Linden Bay Romance.




And these are some of the places you can find me online:
Website: http://www.jkcoi.com/



Blog: http://www.jkcoiblogspot.com/



Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/jkcoi



Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/jkcoi





TWW: Is there anything else you’d like to share with us, J. K.?




JK: Well, I’d like to say thanks again for letting me visit today, and I’d love to share an excerpt!





Exclusive excerpt from Forever Immortal:







“What’s with the big house and all the antiques? I guess you’ve been lucky playing the stock market?”

Gideon laughed. He would have been suspicious of all the questions, but she seemed genuinely curious. He had to remember that where she’d been, the accommodations were likely to have been less than luxurious.

He decided to indulge her. Nothing he told her could be used against the Immortals in any case. “It’s not luck, just a combination of enough time and opportunity. There are Immortals who play the stock market, and some who hold down legitimate day jobs. Others have just been very wise investing the wealth they acquired while they were still human.”

Lyssa simply nodded, as if this was the conclusion she’d already come to on her own. “So, how do you contribute exactly? Wait, let me guess, you’re the muscle of the operation?”

Gideon snorted, but didn’t answer. She would have no way of knowing that he had a Masters degree from Cal Tech in biochemical engineering, or that at one time he had been fast on his way to becoming one of the foremost research scientists in the country.

But that was the past.

So in point of fact, Lyssa was right, as pathetic a soldier as he had turned out to be, Gideon was still just that. Muscle. A sword arm encased in black leather. Nothing more, nothing less. “Why don’t I show you to a room and somewhere where you can wash up?”

Lyssa regarded him with hooded eyes that said she was still suspicious, but finally nodded. “Fine. Lead the way.” Her voice, all raspy and hoarse, plucked at his insides, a spell cast to enthrall him, though she couldn’t know it. Gideon’s cock surged to attention. Eight years ago, her voice had been like smooth silk gliding over his senses, wrapping all around him and sliding right into him. It was different now, but just as sexy, affecting him just the same.

Gideon found himself straining toward her, wanting her to speak again. He cleared his throat and started for the stairs. “Come with me then, Lyssa.”

“No.” She stopped him. He closed his eyes against the power of her voice in that single word.

Turning back to her, he lifted a brow in inquiry. “What, now?”

“I don’t answer to that name. That girl doesn’t exist anymore. She died a long time ago.” Her expression was rigid and detached as if she spoke of a stranger. “I’m all that’s left.”

Nyx.


TWW: And now for a contest! For a chance to win a download of one of J. K. Coi's current releases (winner's choice) answer this question: Do you prefer Series or Standalone?

We'll announce the winner tomorrow right here at Three Wicked Writers.
Thanks for hanging out with us today, J. K.!

It's not a real job....

Ever find that a lot of people who don't write, also don't consider it work? I've gotten that so much lately I'm about to freakin' pull out my hair! No, I don't work outside my home but I DO stay at home with my kids and I DO write. Yes, even though I enjoy writing it IS a job. I was talking with an extended family member the other day. She mentions how nice it must be to stay at home with my kids. I of course agree because even though there are days I again want to pull out my hair, I know I am lucky my kiddos are with me all day and not in daycare. Then she kind of laughs a little bit and teases me about being lucky enough to just hang out and play all day. Um, excuse me? Play all day? I wish! I in turn laugh it off and then casually bring up the fact that I not only take care of two young children but I also write from home. Her response, "Yeah, but that's not like real work."

At this point I'm chanting in my head, Calm down, Kelley. Deep breaths, in and out.
After said calming breaths I ask her what she means by that. I have deadlines like everyone else. Guidelines of what's expected of me. The list goes on. By then she can tell she's upset me and it's back peddle time. "I just mean, you get to do what you like and work from home and it's not as if it takes up a lot of your time." By this time I'm seeing red and my hubby, takes one look at my face and casually drags me away, suddenly needing my help somewhere. I just don't get why so many people don't see writing as a real job. I get it all the time in some way, shape, or form. So many people think that just anyone can sit down and write a book. Maybe they can and maybe they can't but that doesn't mean it's easy. That doesn't mean its not a real job.

Do you get the whole, you don't have a real job thing from people you know? Are you sick and tired of people thinking writing a book is the easiest thing in the world?

On a side note I'm running TWO contests today. The first is at my erotic blog Madison Scott It's easy to enter and you are entered in a drawing for a free book!

The second one is at my Kelley Nyrae

If you get a chance, check them out.

Want some STORY with that SEX?

More and more lately, the primary thought when I'm writing a story is...okay, where will they have SEX? I swear, it's driving me crazy but then, I should have known this would happen when I embarked on a career as an erotic romance author. Now, the key word in that job description is ROMANCE. No, I don't write straight erotica, I have romance in my stories. I have to say though, it's becoming harder and harder to strike a happy medium between story and sex.

Everyone has rules it seems. I was never much of a rebel. Always thought, I was the sort who wanted to get along and not make waves so if a publisher wants MORE sex, I try to give it to them. If they want more STORY, I try to do that too. Easy that way, I reckon.

Lately though, this more sex than story thing has been bothering me. I find myself thinking...hmmm, maybe they should have sex right HERE. It has become a planned out thing that I just don't like very much. So I have become a rebel. Can you believe it? Wait! Where's my bike and black leather motorcycle jacket? Several months ago, I decided I just had HAD IT. I was going to write my story and yes, have a STORY. My characters would hop into bed when I wanted them to. Oddly enough, this whole thing began when I sat down with a plot idea thinking I would make it a menage. Mainly because menage sells like gangbusters and who doesn't want to make money, right?

I wrote the first little bit and sent to my critique partners careful to say...this will be a menage. One of my critique partners said...WHY? Your hero is so alpha. I just don't see him sharing.

Funny thing was, that's pretty much how I saw him too. Big, rough, tough and alpha. No, I realized, he wouldn't share the love of his life with another man. So I kind of threw my hands up in the air and gave up. No longer was I going to try to fit a square peg into a round hole, trying to make something work for the sake of sales. I was going to write the story of my heart, adding sex where it needed to be and not forcing things. This philosophy made me feel brand new, whole. I began to feel more like a writer than a machine that cranked out reams of sex scenes. WHEW. I'm reborn!

The product of this effort is in my new shifter series, the first of which came out mid-May. The second comes out July 10 and the third is awaiting edits. So far the reviews and reception from readers has been so positive, I have to wonder if I'm on to something. Writing the story I want and adding meaningful but ultra hot sex seems to work for me. Yes, I think I'll stick to this because, as a writer, I must say I'm happy again and happy is good. Right?

Right now I feel I'm a better writer. Does that mean I'll never write another menage? No. In fact, I'm working on one now but the menage action works with this story where it just didn't with the other. I'm concentrating more these days on the story and letting the sex happen where it's MEANT to happen.

he did NOT just say that!

Every so often I read a story that makes me cringe. This time I saw red and wanted to throw up.

The basic premise of the book intrigued me, which is why I bought it in the first place. She's a humble girl living in England, scraping to get by. He's an attractive, rich Italian who's forced to bring her to the family she never knew she had. When she's showered with pretty things and is turned into this gorgeous creature, the hero suddenly can't keep his hands off her.

First, let me just say. It's fun to read a makeover story. I love it when the hero is speechless as he witnesses the heroine's transformation. What I don't love is the idea that the hero found the woman ugly BEFORE said transformation.

I once wrote a makeover story myself. In "Forbidden Fruit" Ava's a tomboy who is more comfortable in jeans rather than a skirt. But when she decides to catch Luke's eye, she goes shopping. It's a fun, hot read. HOWEVER, Luke thought Ava was hot before the skirt and sexy lipstick. He always craved her. Which is why I liked him so much.

In the story I just read this is SO not the case. In fact, he actually thinks to himself 'no point putting lipstick on a pig'. I had to read that line several times before it registered. Yes, the author really wrote that. Yes, the publisher actually published that. Through the entire book the issue of her beauty is constant. The message is very clear. When she wasn't wearing the fantastic clothes and expensive makeup, she was worthless. Now that she is 'presentable' she's worthy of the hero's attention.

God, I felt sick to my stomach. It made me actually ill. The hero went beyond horrible. His entire attitude sucked. I never want to read another book by this author again. I won't give names or badmouth anyone, because I think that's a shitty thing to do, but I am most definitely NOT a fan of her work.

So, today I want to ask you all. Have you ever read a makeover story that you loved? If so, give me titles!! I need to wash this story out of my head!

Ordinary Janes and Joes

I was up pretty late last night with one of my critique partners and we were talking about the lack of ordinary Janes and Joes in books. You know what I mean. So often our heroes are rich CEO or financiers or they are swashbuckling soldiers, SEALS or Rangers. Heck, I even have a firefighter book coming soon.

But what's the deal with this? Where have the waitresses and school teachers gone? Why don't we have a few heroines here and there who flip burgers at Mickey D's. I mean, we would connect with these people struggling to make a living, wouldn't we?

They are ordinary women looking for love just like the rest of us and unfortunately they are scarce these days in women's fiction. I don't know about you guys but I would love to read a book about the waitress who finds love with the rough, tough carpenter or auto mechanic. I've seen a few of them lately but not enough, let me tell ya.

I've actually been toying with the idea of doing a series of stories about modern day oil field hands. Roughnecks, Drillers and Roustabouts. I mean, why not?

Also getting a bit tired of reading heroines who are supermodels, actresses or just outrageously beautiful. Isn't ordinary good enough for us anymore?

Okay. Nuff of my rant. Just sayin', ya know. Why don't we keep things more real? Most women aren't a size two with perfectly formed features. Most guys don't have thick swatches of silky hair, perfect abs and pecs, and drive Jags. What's wrong with a little reality? Our readers might just enjoy that for a change.

Kudos to Kelley on the release of Caliente, a multi author anthology available at Parker Publishing. WOOHOO, Kell!!!

When a girl wants Hot and Spicy she finds herself a Latin Lover.

In J.M. Jeffries’s Partners in Crime Vincent Mendoza is a CIA agent in charge of his first mission. He must liberate some top secret documents and he turns to jailed cat burglar Cleo Harris to help him. To gain her freedom, she must help the sexy agent. Little does Vincent know that the beautiful thief will steal his heart in the process?

In Monique Lamont’s Instructing Layla Marcelo Alcindor can’t believe after six years his old dance partner Layla Washington is back in his life needing his help. To win a dance contest, reteams with her ex lover promising herself she will not let the passion they feel for dance lead to the bedroom again. But Marcelo teaches Layla that love is the greatest dance of all.

In Kelley Nyrae’s Wanting Mia Two months ago Mia Hamilton spotted a handsome man she wanted for a weekend fling, but he turned her down. Antonio Rojas has wanted Mia from the first moment he saw her, but he was other wised engaged until recently. He finds the object of his desire determined to make her his and he not taking no for an answer.

In Simone Harlow’s Julia’s Second Act Once hot Hollywood agent, Julia Wade’s career is on a downward spiral. Not so A-list actor Matt Valdez is trying to recharge his career, but all he seems to be interested is his sexy new agent. She trying to get him noticed and he wants to get her into his bed. Who will win in this battle of the hearts?

http://www.parker-publishing-shopping.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=181

Where to go, what to do?

So, while I was at the get together I got to talking to a few other authors about conventions and events. Next year I want to be able to go to a couple of reader/author events, but I can't figure out which one. There are so many of these things, both large and small and I want to spend my money and time wisely.

First, there's the RT Con, which will be in Ohio next year. I've NEVER been before and this seems like a great chance for me to go and not have to pay airfare and lodging. Which makes the event way cheaper. But, after hearing that in many ways RT doesn't have as many readers as I'd first thought, I'm starting to reconsider. Also there are the parties, costumes, etc. I'm not into all that. I would want to go sell some books, meet readers and authors, have a good time...like Lori Foster's event.

Also, there's RWA, which I've never attended. This one would be expensive, considering I'd not only have to pay the high registeration fee, but also airfare and lodging. And what are the benefits really? I'm curious if authors feel all that money is well spent?

I DO plan to go to Lori Foster's event again next year. And the annual COFW conference is looking like something I'm going to want to do every year as well. But are there other events out there? What am I missing? Where have you been and was it worthe time and money?

Tell me, I NEED feedback! LOL

Roadblocks

If my life were a street you could pretty much guarantee there would always be a sign that read: Caution Road Work Ahead. I think we're pretty much all works in progress. That's life, right? We don't have all the answers and even though some times I wish I did, things wouldn't be quite as exciting would they?

Today I want to talk about writing roadblocks. I think most of us have them. Whether or not its procrastination, fear of failure or just plain ole self doubt I think most of us all deal with these little road blocks on our writing road. For me, it started with time. I've loved writing since I saw a child scribbling in my trapper keeper but as I grew up I worked a full time job and just never had the time to write. In some ways, that may have been just an excuse, could have been my fear of failure sneaking in, maybe a little bit of self doubt thrown in but at the time I blamed it on time.

Finally I had the time, and built up the courage to take it and started writing. Honestly, things went pretty quickly for me from starting my first book to my first publication but that doesn't mean I don't face road blocks with each and every book I write. One of mine is still time because even though I don't work outside the home, my kids and household keep me pretty damn busy. But I want it enough that I bulldoze that roadblock right out of my way.

I do have a confession to make though. With each book, each submission, each contract, and especially every book that is released I have a HUGE fear of failure. It's a hurdle I face every time. I get stressed before submission. Check my email fifty times a day after submission expecting that big R we all hate to see. When I get my edits, I'm always freaking out that my editor wonder why in the hell they ever contracted my book. When a new book comes out I sweat bullets, scared to death I'll let my readers down. For me, it doesn't get easier but guess what? I keep going. What makes me? Hell, I don't know. Maybe I'm a glutton for punishment. All I know is I HAVE to keep going. I might fear failure but isn't it automatically a fail if you don't try?

What kinds of roadblocks do you face in your writing? If your not a writer, what about road blocks in your every day life? Your job? What makes you keep plugging along?

Shhh! Writer in hiding!

I'll have to admit that when I first started writing, a number of friends asked me if I was planning to use a Pen Name. My response at the time was WHY? I wasn't ashamed of what I wrote and I didn't really mind telling anyone that I wrote romance. So once I got that first contract, I stuck to my guns and wrote very hot romances under my real name. They did okay. Not AWESOME but okay as far as sales. But when I began writing erotic romance, I knew a change might be needed with the whole 'fake name' thing. For awhile I stubbornly clung to the idea of using my real name. I mean, I had a website, a blog, yada yada. If I took on a pen name would I have to do two of everything? The very idea made me shudder.

Anyway, I sat down with the family and we had a discussion about it. My kids were totally cool with whatever I decided but I could tell by the look on my husband's face that he was a little concerned. We don't much cotton to hypocrisy at our house. We tend to call things what they are and avoid pretentious, judgmental bullshit but in this matter, considering the material I'd be writing, he felt it best for me to write under a pen name for my steamy stuff. Since I live in a fairly narrow minded, ultra conservative town in Texas, I readily agreed.

So yes, I write under a pen name and I've adjusted just fine. Most of my readers know my real name and my close friends certainly do so it's not a HUGE secret but the local folks, for the most part, don't know what I write and that's probably a very good thing.

Just heard from a writer friend who'd decided from the very beginning to write under her own name and she is seriously 'creeped out' by an email she just got from a local guy who referred to her 'smut books' and how he'd love to discuss her 'fave titles' with her sometime. EWWWWW. Yeah, she's a little freaked out over it and I'm wondering if she regrets not taking a pen name.

Umm. Yeah, glad I got that pen name. I really AM!

Other News: Reviews are beginning to come in for Highland Beast. Just got this one and I'm psyched! It's scary beginning a new series and I was secretly a little worried about how the book would be received. Breathing a bit now!

This is from Amelia at Sensual Ecatromance and she gave it a 4.5 rating!

The first connected book about intriguing shifters by Regina Carlysle is captivatingly innovative in both characters and plot. This talented author sets the heat at fire level in an exceedingly passionate yet heartfelt story of unexpected love and intense longing.

With her powerful empathic abilities, Martha Bennett has found living in a remote part of Texas makes her life easier as she can avoid feeling the emotions of those around her. When she purchases a very old mirror, she is stunned to be awakened one night by potent sentiments when no one is nearby. Even more bizarre is how different the appearance of the glass in the mirror looks. As she closely investigates, Martha knows she must be dreaming when a black wolf is revealed and it suddenly turns into a most impressively built plus handsome man. When she puts her hand towards the mirror after he beckons to her, she finds herself going back through time to the castle of a Highland shifter.

Although Silas MacAdam was cursed by a witch for not loving her, his thoughts about the woman now with him after three hundred years of being alone are much different. The wholehearted desire between Silas and Martha is mutual, and their expression of these feelings is explosively impassioned. When an incident has them going back to Texas in the present, they find their bond is just as strong as it was in his time. Since he was once king of the lycans, Silas would very much like to be with his own kind again. However, he believes Martha is destined to be his true mate, and it is his goal to persuade her to stay with him regardless of what the future brings.

Regina Carlysle adds her own special brand of wit, passion and fascination to create a story where the sexy hero and spirited heroine will leave you wanting more of their exploits. The deep inner feelings of Silas and Martha are evident at any time, whether they are actually together or just thinking about each other. Their emotional and physical connection is powerful from the very first, and the strength of this bond is almost palpable as they continuously prove how much they care with spoken declarations and actions. With sex being an extremely important part of their relationship, there are plenty of red-hot moments overflowing with fiery sensuality. This couple communicates with words and deeds in a delightful manner, as there is some playful teasing intermixed with the overwhelming craving they feel for the other. The supernatural aspects of the story are cleverly depicted, where the incredible seems completely reasonable. From the mystical mirror to shape-shifting to psychic abilities, the reader will want to believe in the magical elements being portrayed. The power of love also comes into play, especially when an unforeseen twist arises and causes some soul-searching by Silas and Martha. Regina Carlysle draws you into her spellbinding world where the supernatural is the norm. HIGHLAND BEAST entertains, intrigues and titillates with its fascinating premise and memorable couple.

Lori Foster event update!

I had a fantastic time at the Lori Foster event. I was really excited to meet fellow authors and bunches of readers, some of which come to our little wicked blog here!

First, a few shout outs. Amy C and her very sweet mother. I really enjoyed chatting with you both and I hope you're planning to attend next year as well. Wendi (aka 'racergirl') You rock, lady! I swear I never laughed more. By the way, my daughter said you're very pretty and you look like the actress in the movie Yes Man. :) Pam, those drinks you mixed me, damn those were good! Laura it was nice talking to you, but I wish we could have hung out more. It's such a busy event, so much going on and it's difficult to spend time with everyone. Maybe if it lasted a week. LOL

Liane, it was great seeing you again this year! I'm really excited about the launch of Three Kinds of Wicked! Valerie and Jambrea, I loved visiting with you both! (crossing my fingers for the both of you). I got to see Paige Tyler and her husband again, which was cool. Kendra, thanks for finding me! I'm definitely going to email you about that book trailer! Diane McEntire and Lexi Ryan! It's sooo great to put faces with the names on the screen. I enjoyed our writing talk. I feel motivated now! And Joni, lady you crack me up. I just love you, woman! I wish we lived closer because I would love to hang out with you sometime. Janice Maynard and my friend Jen. If either of you ever decide not to attend I'll just die. It wouldn't be the same without you both. (And Janice, I think we should have wrestled that blanket away from Angela. LOL)

It was also great to see Lori Foster and her wonderful husband again. I glimpsed Dianne Castell several times, but that woman stays so busy it's hard to get her to stop long enough to say hello. She wears me out just watching her. LOL Lori and Diane and all the volunteers did so much to make this event fun for all of us. Thanks for all the hard work!

Some of the highlights. I won two baskets. One by the lovely Marcia James, which contained her book "At Her Command" and a bottle of wine. Is there anything better? LOL I also won a basket of candy. So, chocolate, wine and a book....can you see my grin? :-D

I signed books. Yay! It was so neat to see people buying copies of "Seduce Me". I felt like I was dreaming or something. LOL I also signed a few cover flats, a t-shirt, and even a C.D. which contained several of my ebooks. That last one was for the sweet Barb Ledbetter. It was great seeing you again this year, Barb. And I'm so jealous you had the guts to get your picture taken with that hunky cover model! I was also interviewed by the very kind Michelle Buonfiglio from Romance B(u)y the book. It was a video interview and I was shaking like a leaf. But Michelle made me very comfortable pretty quick. Let's hope I didn't look too much like a dork there.

I did get a little tipsy this year. Jen, my husband and I went down to the bar Saturday night and had a few drinks and chatted a bit. I managed to remain sober though, so that was good. LOL.

Below is the winner of my Smokin' Hot basket, which contained lots of erotic romances by various authors. For some crazy reason her name escapes me. But she was a sweetheart. I hope you enjoy the books! Thanks again to ALL who donated books. Lots of money was raised, though I can't remember exactly how much right at the moment.


And this picture is Lora Leigh and me. Oh. My. God. I met Lora Leigh!!! I was so damn thrilled. I can't even express how excited I was to meet this woman. She's my favorite author and half the reason I came to this event. Guess what else? I bought her a Bud Light and she sat at our table. She chatted and we drank beer together and I was seriously in heaven! The best part, she's every bit as nice as I imagined. So down to earth and sweet as hell. I wish I could've spent even more time with her, but alas all good things do come to an end. By the way, I do happen to know a secret, but I'm not tellin'! hehe! You'll all have to wait for the official announcment.

And this is me once we got home. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz LOL I was SOOOO exhausted! But it was a good exhausted.
So, not only was the event productive for me as a writer, but also lots of fun. I can't wait until next year!!

My Guilty Pleasure

While Anne is off playing at the Lori Foster Event (and I'm jealous, too, btw), I'm going to talk about my guilty pleasure. Last weekend Kelley talked about her discovery of The Tudors. If you don't watch that, it's a Showtime Series and verrrrrry hot.

My guilty pleasure is True Blood. It's based on the Southern Vampire Series, Sookie Stackhouse stories by Charlaine Harris and has been converted to television by HBO and Alan Ball (Six Feet Under). It's a fabulous show. Dark, funny, sexy, and so totally NOT for the squeemish. During season one, Sookie (the waitress) who is also telepathic meets Bill, the vampire (and a southern gentlemen) and yes, the attraction was instantaneous. We also meet an entire cast of colorful, eccentric characters, all living in small town Louisianna. So while Bill and Sookie are falling in love and having adventures of their own, someone is killing women in this little town.

I'm not kidding. I'm so addicted to this show. Every Sunday night we raced to the tube to watch and actually went through withdrawals when they went on hiatus to film season two. I satisfied my craving by catching up on the 'fan boards'. Now if that's not nuts, I don't know what is.

At the end of May, I picked up the entire first season on dvd and I've been watching but if you don't have a copy of your own, it can be rented or watched again on HBO (if you have it). Now season two is getting ready to start and I'm psyched. Although I have to admit, I'm worried that one of my favorite characters might be DEAD. YIKES.

So what's your guilty pleasure and why? And if you are a True Blood fan, who is your favorite character? When it comes to a showdown between Bill, the southern gentleman vampire, or Eric, the hot viking vampire, which is your favorite. Wait, let me put on my Horny Viking Hat!

Connecting with characters

Yesterday my mom and I were talking about some our favorite books that have been turned into movies. Of course there are always going to be differences in a movie compared to a book. That's a given but what I find fascinating, is even though I know that, my reaction to the movie, or the characters. I really like the Twilight books. Though I did enjoy the movie, it didn't come close to doing the book justice, IMO. The funny part is, throughout the show, I could remember myself say things like, "Edward would never have done that". I back peddled a little bit. I'm not crazy, I swear. I KNOW this guy is a fictional character so why am I sitting here angry because the movie version of my character did or said something that book Edward, "never would have done"?

That got me thinking of the magic of a good character. To me, that is the power of a good book. I love getting so wrapped up in the characters, their story and their HEA that they feel real to me. I love that kind of emotional fulfillment. I'm investing hours into reading a book and even more time into writing one and to really connect with a character is the best reward.

That's another reason I love a good series because I feel like I'm revisiting friends. I get to check in with them after their story is "finished". The best way for an author to get her hooks into me is powerful characters that I can truly connect with, whether or not I have things in common with them. But if I can...bond with them then I'm sold.

Who are some of your favorite characters that you've connected with? Do you reread their story over and over just to feel the pull of being carried into their world? What is it that makes you connect with a character?

Homework Anyone?

I've been laying low for a few days now trying to get inspired to write. Know the feeling, don't you? Ha. Figured I wasn't alone in that.

So I've been reading a bit and I've been so surprised by the lack of "homework" I've seen. I'm a big believer in research. We don't stop learning just because we have our high school and college diplomas shoved in the bottom of a desk God-Knows-Where. Maybe we just get lazy and figure we don't have to know anything about the profession of our hero and heroine. Maybe it's just not necessary to know just a little bit of the geography of a place.

As most of you know, my books are mainly set in Texas or other parts of the southwest. There is a reason for that. I live in Texas and have traveled all over the area. I'm familiar with the geography, the manner of dress, the customs, and the language of the people so it's a 'comfort' thing for me. Now that doesn't mean, I don't leave my little corner of the world from time to time. I do. But I make sure that I've done my research. I've been known to do a little delving into occupations and geography just to make sure I've got it right...or as 'right' as possible.

Have you ever read something and thought....hm, this author is dead wrong about this? Doesn't it drive you nuts? Dialect that is "off" also has me pulling out my hair. A cowboy in Texas might tell the heroine something but he would likely say it a lot differently than a CEO located in New York City might. The cadence of the words would be different, the expressions most certainly would be different as well.

So when did it become too much trouble to hone in on these things? A story is just a whole lot richer when that extra effort is made. It's just fine if your hero/heroine is a chef but wouldn't you want to discuss a dish or two that might be prepared in the course of your story? If he/she is a cop wouldn't you want to mention a weapon that might be used or have the cop lingo down a bit? I certainly would.

Hey! Google is a wonderful thing. I know for a fact I head over there often just to be clear on a point or two. Doesn't take long. Really.

Other Things: Congrats to Anne! She has a release today. Scroll down to read a blurb then head over to the site and pick up your copy.

First Review: Just got a note from my friend Desiree Holt telling me about the first published review of Highland Beast. Literary Nymphs gave it a FIVE. Boy, I looooove those 5's!!!!!

Here's the review:

Title: Highland Beast
Author: Regina Carlysle
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: http://www.jasminejade.com/
ISBN: 9781419921506
Genre: Shapeshifter Time-travel, Romance (m/f)
Rating: 5 Nymphs
Literary Nymphs Reviewer: Amazon Nymph

Martha is an empath in hiding. She buys an antique mirror with strange symbols on it, and later that night, she begins to feel the lust and loneliness of someone else.For 300 years, Silas MacAdam has been cursed and trapped by a witch he spurned. Silas has been alone, cut off from his people and waiting for the woman that can free him. When Silas sees Martha through the mirror, he realizes she could be the one to free him.Highland Beast is a very intense love story that takes you back in time and back again. The intensity of the emotions that Ms. Carlysle reveals between Martha and Silas takes you on their journey with them. The sex between Martha and Silas is the get-the-ice-cubes kind. I enjoyed the surprise ending, as there is no hint until the last few chapters. This is one for the bookshelf, to be read again

snobs

Some of you may know that I went to a book signing this weekend. It was my first. It was held at a local Waldenbooks (Borders). The folks who worked there made me feel very welcome! My kids and husband went along with me, which was awesome. They hung out in the mall while I sat and waited for folks to come along and take a gander at my book. My parents even showed up. How cool is that? My mother-in-law and my niece came as well. I had lots of support and I feel so blessed to have had so many people backing me. Afterwards I took them all to The Olive Garden for lunch as a thank you.

I'm a major introvert, so sitting at a table alone, trying to get people to come over and check out my book and bookmarks was easily the most difficult thing I've ever done. I'd gladly walk over hot coals if it meant avoiding that type of thing.

The good news is, I did manage to attract a few readers, sold a few books, handed out lots of bookmarks, and got a little bit of experience under my belt. I know what I'd do different next time. I gathered lots of mental notes, trust me! LOL The bad news is, I recieved several frowns from customers who happened to look at my smokin' hot Seduce Me cover. Wait, let me explain. It wasn't frowns so much as actual disapproving looks. Nose in the air, tugging their child close, as if to keep them away from the 'riff-raff'. This, I'm learning, is all par for the course in the life of an erotic romance author.

Here's the thing, I don't judge people based on what they read. If you don't read erotic romance that's okay. Truly! I get that. I had a few readers smile, said they didn't read romance, but wished me luck on the signing anyway. They were kind and nonjudgmental. I appreciate that attitude more today than ever!

Of course, this isn't the first time I've gotten dirty, rude looks. It's not the first time parents tugged their child away from the 'freak'. Growing up with skin graphing scars has taught me how to smile through the pain. No one can smile through the pain quite like I can! No one can pretend it doesn't hurt quite like me. I'll never breakdown in public. I'll never let them see how much they can hurt me. Instead, I grin and focus on the nice people. The ones who wished me luck, took the time to say hi and made me feel welcome, rather than unwanted.

In other, happier, news...Taking Chloe, the 3rd in my Vaughn series releases tomorrow at Samhain. Yay! Here's a bit about it!

“Taking Chloe” by Anne Rainey
Read An Excerpt Online
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Red Hots!

ISBN: 978-1-60504-575-7
Length: Novella
Price: 3.50
Publication Date: June 2, 2009
Cover art by Scott Carpenter

The only way to keep what he has…is to surrender everything.

The Vaughn Series, Book 3

Merrick Vaughn couldn’t be happier with his life. His business is jumping and his marriage to the love of his life is about as good as it gets. At least, that’s what he thinks…until Chloe announces she wants to separate.

Stunned doesn’t begin to cover it, but it quickly becomes clear that she’s dead serious. And if he doesn’t take action, as in now, he’s going to lose the only woman he’s ever loved.

The last thing Chloe wants is a divorce, but she can’t go on living with a virtual stranger who spends all his time—and hers—behind a desk. It’s tearing her apart, and taking a break to sort out her thoughts seems her only recourse.

Then Merrick offers a wicked proposition: go to Hawaii with him for one week’s vacation. After that, if he hasn’t successfully changed her mind, he’ll let her go. No questions asked. There’s only one caveat. She must agree to give him complete control.

Chloe’s intrigued and scared. One week in paradise might bring them closer—or be their ultimate undoing.

Warning: This story contains graphic language, a touch of voyeurism, anal sex, and husband-and-wife lovin’ in lots of sinful positions. Have your significant other handy!