Spectacular Sunset

The view outside the living room window Tuesday night was absolutely spectacular. The orange and yellow colors were so vivid.

The picture below is my absolute favorite. The show by Mother Nature didn't last long, but it was certainly a beautiful sight to behold.



Tuesday Teaser: Annabelle Lee

Late again this week, but the Teaser this week is from Annabelle Lee, the first book I ever had published. This book was released by Ellora's Cave back in October 2004 and will always be very dear to my heart.

TEASER:


“I heard you were hot.” The voice was male, deep, and husky.

Annabelle turned slightly from where she’d been organizing books in the reference section of the library. The towering shelves filled with hardcover books created a tunnel-like effect, insulating her from the rest of the library. She could see a tall silhouette at the end of the darkened aisle. “You shouldn’t be here. The library closed five minutes ago.” She used her sternest librarian voice, the one that automatically scolded the recipient for breaking library rules.

The shadow sauntered closer and coalesced into the body of a man. And what a body! Clad in tight jeans and a white tank shirt that emphasized the rippling muscles in his chest, he was every woman’s fantasy, but especially hers. The blue material of his jeans clung to his muscular thighs and accentuated the bulge in the front. He was aroused and making no effort to hide it.

“What can I do for you?” Annabelle asked, her voice prim and business-like. She could feel the sweat roll down her back, and her nipples were now tight buds against the front of her summer cotton sundress.

“What do you want to do?” came the tantalizing reply.

A Night of Fun and Crafting

This past week I did an evening workshop at the local college--Iris Fabric Folding. The original craft is actually Iris Paper Folding, but the instructor teaches quilting at the school and uses fabric for the technique instead of paper.

The class was small, which I liked, and the instructor was simply amazing. I had a ton of fun!

We all started out making the star pattern (above), but everyone's card was different because of the color of the cardstock chosen and the various shades of fabric we all picked.

Now, of course, I'm determined to make Christmas cards for the immediate family. I have started looking for fabric as I have none. I haven't done much in the way of crafting in years, not since my writing took off and have virtually no supplies. I'll start scoping out the thrift stores for clothing I can cut up too, and I might even try some designs with paper or ribbon. Need to do a bit more embellishment with the card, but I absolutely love how it turned out!

Welcome to Autumn!

 

Today is the fall equinox, the first official day of fall.

 

WELCOME AUTUMN!

 

TRS End of Summer Bash

The Romance Studio End of Summer Bash is going on now until September 22nd. Stop by and check out all the excerpts. There are plenty of contests and prizes to be won!

Contest Reminder and Winner #4

CONTEST WINNER:

The fourth winner in my 8th Anniversary Contest is Ashley Applebee. Ashley has won a print copy of Feral Fixation!

There are still four more print books to be given away. Go to my website and click on the "Contests" page for details on how you can enter for a chance to win!

Tuesday Teaser: Harker's Journey

It's a day late, but here is the Tuesday Teaser! This week it's Harker's Journey, the first book in the Dalakis Passion vampire series.

TEASER:

He advanced towards her, his movements fluid and graceful. She gasped as a beam of moonlight illuminated his features. Striking and dangerous were the two words that popped into her head. Dressed entirely in black, his great height and massive shoulders almost immediately blocked out most of the light. As if sensing her need to see him better, he turned slightly so she could make out his features.

Long dark hair was swept back from his face, falling in a curtain of silk around his shoulders. His forehead was prominent, and his cheekbones were high. Quirked in a half smile, his lips were thin, yet surprisingly sensual. For a moment, his eyes seemed to glow an eerie red before fading to dark once again. As much as she strained, she could not make out their color.

“Green.” His deep, slightly accented voice answered her unasked question.

She felt his voice, for it seemed to vibrate deep inside her, causing her to yearn for something. What that craving was, she wasn’t sure, but she longed to hear him speak again.

“Sit, please.” Scooting over to the center of the bed, she patted the white duvet next to her.

A satisfied smile crossed his face as he sank to the mattress. He said nothing and sat as still as a stone. Predator. The word flashed in her head and a deep fear rose within her as her heart began to pound in her chest.

His dark laughter filled the air, and one of his large hands covered her fluttering heart. The heat from his palm seared her chest. She wanted to move, but she was paralyzed by fear. His green-eyed gaze captured hers and she could not tear away from their terrible beauty. For a moment she thought she was dead, and lamented the fact that there were so many things left in life that she wanted to do.

 

Memory Board

So a weekend project I did recently was a memory board. I found the instructions online and have to say it was a quick and fun craft project. I used an art canvas as the base and covered it with two layers of cotton batting and then this wonderful orange fabric I found for a couple of bucks at Walmart. I used brown ribbon and attached buttons where the ribbon crosses. I think it looks great on the wall behind my desk.

Haven't put much up on the board yet. Figure that will happen naturally over time. :)

Contest Reminder and Third Winner!

CONTEST WINNER:

The third winner in my 8th Anniversary Contest is Lexee Toste. Lexee has won a print copy of Isaiah's Haven!

There are still five more print books to be given away. Go to my website and click on the "Contests" page for details on how you can enter for a chance to win!

Book of the Week--In Rides Trouble by Julie Ann Walker

The Book of the Week is In Rides Trouble, the second book in Julie Ann Walker's Black Knights Inc series. If you love dangerous men and equally dangerous women, this contemporary series is a must read! I'm so glad I discovered this wonderful author!

Be sure to check out Hell on Wheels, the first book in the Black Knights Inc series as well. You'll be happy you did.

BLURB:

Rebel with a Cause

Becky "Rebel" Reichert never actually goes looking for trouble. It just has a tendency to find her. Like the day Frank Knight showed up at her door, wanting to use her motorcycle shop as a cover for his elite special ops team. But Becky prides herself on being able to hang with the big boys-she can weld, drive, and shoot just as well as any of them.

Man with a Mission

Munitions, missiles, and mayhem are Frank's way of life. The last thing the ex-SEAL wants is for one brash blonde to come within fifty feet of anything that goes boom. Yet it's just his rotten luck when she ends up in a hostage situation at sea. Come hell or high water, he will get her back-whether she says she needs him or not.


WHAT ARE YOU READING THIS WEEK?

Writer's Wednesday

WRITER'S WEDNESDAY



Tip of the Day: Don't compare yourself to other writers. Every author writes at a different pace. There will always be someone who writes at a faster or slower pace than you do. The trick is to find what works for you and to do it. If you're constantly comparing yourself to other writers, you'll only discourage yourself, and that's just not helpful.

Tuesday Teaser: "A Love Eternal" from Ellora's Cavemen: Legendary Tails IV

Today's Teaser if from my story "A Love Eternal," which is part of the Ellora's Cavemen: Legendary Tails IV. This story is a very emotional one for me. I cried when I wrote it and I cried when I revised it. It's one of my favorites.

TUESDAY TEASER:

The slightest sound of something rustling behind her caught her ear and she swung around. Squinting into the darkness, she could see the form of a man separating himself from the shadows. Even as she told herself she wasn’t afraid, she released her legs and pushed herself further away from him as he came closer to the dim light cast by one of the bridge lamps.

“Who are you?” He came to a sudden stop when she spoke, his eyes glowing eerily as he stared down at her.

His long black hair flowed freely down his back, disappearing behind his massive shoulders. But Genevieve couldn’t pry her eyes away from his face. He was beautiful, his face sculpted by the finest master. His cheekbones and forehead were high, his nose classic. She was drawn to his lips, which were thin and looked almost cruel in the pale light. For some unknown reason, she wanted to lick his lips, to taste his very essence.

Power seemed to radiate from every pore of his gigantic body. He was so much larger than her that she should have been terrified. Instead, she felt as if he was a magnet, somehow attracting her to him. Dangerous and lethal, he stalked toward her like a wild panther on the prowl.

Clad from head to toe in black leather, he seemed more of a force of nature than a man. The dark pants molded his heavily muscled thighs and cupped his bulging cock to perfection. He wore a black jacket with absolutely nothing underneath, and Genevieve licked her lips as she gazed at his rippling abs.

But it was his eyes that fascinated her the most. Dark, almost black, they seemed to glow for a moment before swallowing up the light. They were almost reflective, like mirrors and, for a moment, Genevieve swore he could see straight to her very soul.

He stopped when he reached her side, crouched down next to her, and cradled her face in his large, calloused hands. “You can call me Seth.” Leaning down, he captured her lips with his and, in that moment, she was lost.

Contest Reminder and Second Winner!

CONTEST WINNER:

The second winner in my 8th Anniversary Contest is Mina Gerhart. Mina has won a print copy of A Touch of Magick!

There are still six more print books to be given away. Go to my website and click on the "Contests" page for details on how you can enter for a chance to win!

What's New at my House

So, this past weekend, hubby and I were browsing a store we rarely go to and we saw this chair. I've been married 25 years and I've never purchased a new chair. They've all been hand-me-downs from family or purchased at yard sales or thrift stores. This one was on sale, but still...

Almost left it behind, but at the last second bought it and had it delivered. I almost hyperventilated when I got home. (Not kidding.) But it looks great in the living room and I love the colors! It's perfect right beside our new cabinet. (That came from Walmart so it wasn't expensive.) We decided that after all these years together, we deserved some new furniture. Instead of taking a big trip for our anniversary, we've been spending the money to feather our nest a little. It's nice!

This is a cute pumpkin candleholder I bought at the same store I got the chair. I love that I can leave it out all fall, but it will look wonderful at halloween too!

'CLAIMING MAGIQUE' BLOG TOUR

Today I'd like to welcome author Tina Donahue as she stops by on her 'Claiming Magique' Blog Tour. Welcome Tina...

DAY ELEVEN - ‘CLAIMING MAGIQUE’ BLOG TOUR

I’ve met so many wonderful people on this tour that I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who’s come by and commented!

Claiming Magique, Book One in my Appointment with Pleasure series for Ellora’s Cave is a book I just had to write. Erotic, yet romantic. Sultry, yet tender. The best of all worlds with an Alpha hero to die for. 

Here’s the cover, blurb and a brief excerpt to give you an idea of the plot.

I’m also offering a contest – the tour winner will have her choice of THREE of my backlist ebooks. So, read on!! And leave comments at each of my stops (check my blog daily for details: http://www.tinadonahue.com/blog/ ) for your chance to win! The more comments, the better your chances.

Blurb:

Claiming Magique

Book One – Appointment with Pleasure series

Tina Donahue

A man at the center of power…a woman who won’t be ruled…
They call her Magique.

Sought out by the District’s elite, she’s no ordinary call girl, deciding who will pleasure her for the evening. Her preference is for several men at once. Games of bondage and submission heighten her arousal and desire to have a strong male take her…to be adored.

Lobbyist Hunter Prescott was only looking for a good time, not a woman who unleashes a hunger so deep it changes his world. He won’t stop until Magique is his alone, a prisoner of his lust, powerless against his growing need for her body and heart.

With this man, resistance isn’t allowed. For this woman, he’ll create a world of sensual delight and yearning like none she’s known. Proving that only with trust and true surrender will she find unparalleled rapture.


Excerpt:

Hunt stepped closer, unable to help himself.

Her back was to them. She made no move to turn around despite David’s nervous throat clearing.

Her hair was glossy and black with blue highlights, worn so long the ends dangled over her ass. From his vantage point, Hunt could see her right leg. She wore strappy gold heels, three inches high. He estimated her to be about five-seven or eight without them. Her dress, a simple sheath, was of an amazing gold material, slightly shiny and so snug she might as well have sprayed the damn thing on.

It wasn’t gauzy lingerie, but it did reveal her every curve.

Adrenaline pumped through Hunt, making it difficult for him to stand still. His mouth went dry.

Her figure leaned more toward a Victoria’s Secret model than the waiflike look of high couture. The dress’s left strap had fallen down, making her seem more accessible, oddly vulnerable. Light glanced off her bare shoulder and arm as she moved, lifting a glass, tipping a bottle. Her skin was an ivory shade, looking delicate and seductive as hell.

He pulled at his tie’s knot, needing to loosen it so he could breathe more easily. The air, so fresh a moment before, seemed suffocating now. His fingers ached. He’d been making fists. To control himself? Damn right.

He longed to cross the room and turn her around so she’d notice him, her expression saying she not only approved, she wanted him more than the others, her actions affirming her reckless desire. Burying her face in the hollow of his throat, she’d take her time smelling his skin, gauging his excitement. He’d fight a sigh at her tongue licking his Adam’s apple, her thumb running over his bottom lip. What other choice would he have except to draw her finger into his mouth, gently biting the digit? The small intimacy would have her sagging into him, her weight and exquisite warmth making Hunt feel invincible, prepared to protect her from any harm.

David made a strangled noise, no doubt appreciative of the temptation she generated and his own shameless thoughts. Tim whistled softly.

At that, she turned.

Hunt stared, not even trying to hide his surprise. She was…amazing…striking…dazzling. He couldn’t settle on one description. Although she wasn’t classically beautiful, she would easily stop men cold, making them sneak another peek just to see if she was real. She had the kind of looks that grabbed a guy by his balls, keeping his attention.

 

 

Buy link: http://www.jasminejade.com/p-10319-claiming-magique.aspx

 

Tina

Tina Donahue

“Heat with Heart”

 

CLAIMING MAGIQUE (AVAILABLE NOW)

THE YEARNING (HOLT MEDALLION AWARD OF MERIT)

UNENDING DESIRE (BEST BOOK Rating - LASR Erotic)

SENSUAL STRANGER (BOOK OF THE YEAR 2010)

DEEP, DARK, DELICIOUS (HOLT MEDALLION AWARD OF MERIT)

 

Website: http://www.tinadonahue.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/tinadonahue

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/authortina/my-books/

 

*** CONTEST ***

 

To celebrate the release of Claiming Magique , I’m offering a contest. One lucky commenter during this blog tour will have her choice of THREE of my following ebooks**:

 

1.               Adored – RWA award-winning; EPIC 2011 Finalist; 4 Stars RT

2.               Deep, Dark, Delicious – EPIC 2011 Finalist; Holt Medallion Award of Merit

3.               Lush Velvet Nights – EPIC 2011 Finalist; Golden Nib Award

4.               In His Arms – SIX 5 Star Reviews; 4 Stars RT

5.               Sensual Stranger – 2010 Book of the Year (erotic); 4 Stars RT

6.               The Yearning – Top Ten Bestseller

7.               Take Me Away - #1 Pick, Miz Love Loves Books

8.               Unending Desire – Best Book Rating LASR

9.               SiNN – Nominated for Book of the Week LASR

 

** Winner chosen at random. Winner chosen September 13

 

Tuesday Teaser: Isaiah's Haven

The Tuesday Teaser this week is Isaiah's Haven, a paranormal/werewolf story available from Samhain Publishing. Isaiah is one of my favorite alpha male characters.

TEASER:

Isaiah felt his entire body clench with need as the woman’s low, sultry voice wrapped around him. Turning slowly, he stared at the outside of the small club. Haven, it was called. It was a typical older, three-story brick building with a business on the bottom and what looked to be apartments above it.

A sense of urgency filled him. An air of expectation swirled around him. Somehow he knew if he went inside this bar his life would be changed forever.

All the more reason to keep walking.

He whirled on one heel and strode in the opposite direction. About twenty feet away, he stopped.

 “Fuck!”

The wolf inside him was howling, practically clawing at his skin to be free. His lungs couldn’t take in enough air even though his chest was heaving. He raked his fingers through his hair and swore again.

His instincts would not be denied. Spinning around, he stalked back to the bar. He paused on the doorstep, took a deep breath and crossed over the threshold.

Happy Labour Day!

HAPPY LABOUR DAY!

I hope you're all enjoying the last weekend of summer!

Guest Blogging...

I'm guest blogging over at The Romance Studio Blog today. It's the last weekend of summer. What are you doing to mark it?

September Newsletter and First Contest Winner!

The September 2012 issue of Awakening Desires—the Newsletter of Romance Author N.J. Walters—is now available.

Be sure to check out all the latest news, contests, my husband’s popular column—Confessions of a Romance Author’s Husband—an excerpt, and this month’s interview with Lynda Aicher.

As always, some lucky newsletter subscriber wins a prize. All you have to do to be eligible to win is go to Awakening Desires Newsletter and join. While you’re there, you can check out back issues of the newsletter.


CONTEST WINNER:

The first winner in my 8th Anniversary Contest is Shannon Bratton. Shannon has won a print copy of Woven Dreams! There are still seven more print books to be given away. Go to my website and click on the "Contests" page for details on how you can enter for a chance to win!

In the Edits Cave

I'll be working on edits over the next few days. Planning to take my time with them so I get them right. Have a wonderful day!

Want to win a print book?-- Contest Reminder!

October 27th marks my 8th anniversary as a published writer. How fast the time has flown. To celebrate, I'm holding a contest and giving away a print book
every Friday from August 31st until October 19th. That's 8 print books up for grabs.

For details on how you can enter for a chance to win, go to my WEBSITE and click on the "Contests" page.


NOTE: You only need to enter once to be eligable for all 8 draws.

Tuesday Teaser: Drakon's Treasure

This week's Tuesday Teaser is Drakon's Treasure.This is a Quickie I wrote for Ellora's Cave Autumn Animalia series a few years back. I absolutely adore Arrik! He's my first dragon shifter, but he won't be my last. I have ideas for another dragon book, now all I need is the time to write it. :)

TEASER:

The leader of the guards stalked across the room and Arrik could feel the woman quivering against him. The man reached his hand over the table toward her cloak. “Let’s have a look at you.”

Quick as a snake, Arrik captured the guard’s wrist in an iron grip. “You will not touch her. She is mine.”

The tavern went deathly silent at his refusal. The guard yanked his arm from Arrik’s grasp. “I don’t know who you are, stranger, but I am Proctor, the leader of Lord Hameon of Gradoc’s elite guards. Stand aside or die.” The man puffed out his chest as he spoke, as if expecting to be immediately obeyed. His comrades were behind him now, six men in total.

Arrik stirred, sliding out of the seat. The other man just stared up at him as he stood to his full seven feet. Raising his hands, he slowly pushed his hood aside, revealing his face for the first time. The other man paled and stumbled back a step.

“I am Arrik Varkas Drakon and the woman is mine.”

Celebrating 25 years of marriage

As many of you know from my Facebook post, last Wednesday marked 25 years of marriage for hubby and me. I can't believe how fast the years have flown. We decided to go out for lunch to a place we'd tried once before about four years ago. The experience wasn't the best, but we decided to try again. Going out to eat is difficult for us as we're vegetarians and hubby has certain food restrictions.

But lunch was wonderful. The restaurant was sunny, the service was excellent and the food was incredible!

I had a spinach/walnut pesto on thick multigrain bread topped with swiss cheese and tomato. There were also slices of watermelon, cantaloupe and orange on the plate, but I'd already eaten those by the time we thought to take a picture. Oops.

Hubby had the tofu/tamari burger with garlic fries. I can't remember what the spread was on the burger, but it was yummy. (Yes, I had a bite of his and shared some of mine with him.) There were blueberies, watermelon, cantaloupe and an orange slice on his plate too.

We skipped dessert because we had cake at home, but we did have peppermint tea to finish off the meal. I would definitely go back there again.

Book of the Week--Fatal Submission by Nicole Austin

Fatal Submission is the latest offering from author Nicole Austin. This is not her usual erotic romance but a BDSM/Erotic Horror tale. BDSM and horror mix naturally when you stop and think about it as BDSM is all about trust. But what happens if that trust is betrayed?

Chilling and it's core, but with a strong romance, this is a must read for anyone who is a fan of the BDSM genre.

BLURB:

Claire Hanson is a submissive in need of a Dom. Finding one in rural Illinois in 1981 is no easy feat but her requirements are simple. Forget complicated limit lists, take charge and give her lots of hot, sweaty sex. On edge, body humming with arousal, Claire aches to have her desires sated. And ruggedly handsome Dominant Mason Burke is the man she wants. But for Mason work comes first and Claire’s tired of waiting.

Mason’s loss is Dr. Carl Skinner’s lucky break. The bonus—Carl’s a rich, drop-dead gorgeous Dom with a real dungeon in his basement. Getting what you want isn’t always a good thing and the game takes a drastic turn Claire never saw coming. According to the Dungeon Master’s victims who still haunt his torture chamber, submission has fatal consequences and she’s running out of time.

Reader Advisory: This scary tale contains graphic scenes of erotic torture and violence that may cause the reader to stay up late reading with all the lights on.

4 Stars for Quinn's Quest

Quinn's Quest has received a 4 Star review from The Romance Studio.

"This series is always full of drama, action, complicated love stories and this novel is no exception...The plot is full of action and suspense and a villain as diabolical as they come...Ms. Walters has created a really complete world where werewolves and half breed wolves live alongside humans."

~Maura Frankman

Read entire review at The Romance Studio

Tuesday Teaser: Amethyst Moon

Today's Tuesday Teaser is from Amethyst Moon, a paranormal/ménage a trois. Right now, you can buy it from Ellora's Cave for only $0.99. Why not give it a try.

TUESDAY TEASER:

A large man lay sleeping in the bed. The covers were bunched around his waist, leaving his chest uncovered. She’d never seen a chest quite like this one up close and personal. Heavily muscled and lightly furred, it was impressive. His shoulders were wide, his neck thick and a tangle of blond hair fanned out on the pillow. She swallowed, trying not to give in to panic. She was still wearing her clothing and seemed to be physically fine. That was a definite plus.

But who the heck was he? She’d never met him before, she was sure of it. A woman didn’t forget a man who looked like this one did. But yet, he seemed familiar somehow. She stared at his face, which was no hardship. He was gorgeous. His features were strong and his aquiline nose and square jaw suited him.

She tore her gaze from him and examined the room. Think, Olivia, think! As much as she racked her brains, she couldn’t remember how she got here. Her last memory was of sitting in the stone chair in the hidden chamber she’d stumbled across.

Her bracelets. She held both arms up in the air and studied them. Relief filled her when she realized that they were safe. The stones looked more vibrant, more alive than she’d ever seen them. The deep amethyst seemed to glow. Olivia smiled, unable to stop herself as she tugged her sleeves back down to cover them. Whatever had happened when she’d sat in that chair, the bracelets had been unharmed. She frowned as she tried to recall what had transpired next.

She was so intent on remembering, she hadn’t realized that someone else had entered the room. He was so close to her she could feel the heat from his body. She jerked her gaze upward and froze. If the other man was gorgeous, this one was devastating. Black hair flowed to his shoulders, framing his rugged face. His nose had a bump in the center and his eyes were hooded. His brows were dark slashes that only served to emphasize the golden amber of his eyes. He was a predator and she was very afraid she was the prey.

Scrambling away, she fell smack into the arms of the first man. His heavily muscled arms closed around her, immobilizing her totally. Yet his hold on her was gentle. “I didn’t hear you awaken.”

Monday, Monday

Good morning and welcome to Monday. Hope you all enjoyed the weekend. Mine was filled with a series of minor annoyances. Nothing serious, just enough to make you want to crawl back in bed and pull the covers over your head.

Today is Monday and the start of a brand new week! Hope it's an excellent one for all of us. I'm back to work on my WIP, the final book in my new paranormal quartet. Can't wait to get it finished!

Want the Chance to Win a Print Book?

October 27th marks my 8th anniversary as a published writer. How fast the time has flown. To celebrate, I'm holding a contest and giving away a print book
every Friday from August 31st until October 19th. That's 8 print books up for grabs.

For details on how you can enter for a chance to win, go to my WEBSITE and click on the "Contests" page.


NOTE: You only need to enter once to be eligable for all 8 draws.

Movies of the Week

In the past week, hubby and I have seen two movies. The best of the two, in my humble opinion, was The Bourne Legacy. They made the movie about the man and how he got where he is, which allows you to know and sympathize with him as a character. This is an action-packed film and everything you'd expect from a "Bourne" movie. A great start to the new franchise. Can't wait for the next one!

The other movie we saw was Total Recall. The world they created for this film is utterly amazing. My problem with it? You have three decent actors and not much in the way of dialogue or character development. Still, if you're in search of an action movie that is almost 95% action and not much else, then this is the movie for you. Their special effects/CGI are incredible. All in all, not a bad remake.



Promote or Perish

The cry from the publishing world used to be publish or perish. But with the recent advent of self-publishing that cry has changed to promote or perish. There are so many wonderful books and authors available for readers the question is: How do you stand out from the pack and get readers' attention? It's not easy, especially for those of us not technologically inclined. I've heard some authors say they spend more time promoting than they do writing.

What got me thinking about this subject? Dita Parker's Blog and her post "This ain't a scene, it's an arms race." Be sure to stop by and check out her blog.

In the meantime, what do you think of this subject? What attracts you to a particular book or author?

Down and Dirty at Brenna Zinn's Blog

I'm getting "Down and Dirty" over at Brenna Zinn's Blog today. Stop by and check out the Q & A and the excerpt!

New Submission!

The research, rewrites and more rewrites are finally done and I just hit the "send" button on an email to send my latest book off to my editor. Now I wait.

In case you're wondering, it's the next book in the Awakening Desires series. You didn't think I'd forget Sapphire and Jake, did you? I'm hoping my editor likes it enough to contract it.

On Monday, I'm starting my final rewrites on another book (the third book in a new paranormal quartet for Samhain Publishing) and hope to have that one ready to submit to another editor by next Friday. I got a little backed up waiting for my reader (aka my hubby) to get the manuscripts back to me. Then I'll cross my fingers and hope my editor will contract it. I'm hopeful since she's already contracted the first two in the series.

Once that book is submitted, I'm back to my WIP, which is impatiently waiting for me.

Have a fabulous weekend!

National Book Lover's Day!

Today is National Book Lover's Day! Take the time to read a book. You'll be happy you did!

Treasure Hunting

Those of you who have followed my blog, know that I absolutely love thrift stores and yard sales. I love digging through other people's discarded and unwanted things and finding all sorts of interesting pieces. After all...one man's trash is another man's treasure, or in this case, woman's treasure.

Here are todays finds!



The first find is a fabulous Christmas piece. It says "Charming Tails" on the bottom, and I checked it out when I got home and found out they make all sorts of these statues. Now, I'm not one for knick-knacks, but this was just too cute. More Winter Solstice than Christmas. Can't wait to put it out in December. And only $4.99.

Then I hit the jewelry section. I freely admit that 95% of the time I find nothing I like, but that 5% when I do makes it all worthwhile. I found the necklace first. It's incredibly intricate and a chunky piece. Not sure what the green chips are, maybe adventurine.

I was trying to decide if I would buy it or not when I found the  matching bracelet. And they were only $1.99 each. That decided it and I bought them.

 All in all a very successful trip!

Over the years, I've found some really special things that I've given as presents. And, yes, I come from the kind of family that loves these kinds of gifts. Found my SIL who collects teapots a Kermit the Frog teapot, which turned out to be rare piece. I've found a sterling silver/moonstone pendant for my sister, as well as collectible tins for my mother. I love recycling things and giving them a new home with someone who appreciates them.

Do you yard sale or thrift store shop? If so, what is your best find?

Happy Treasure Hunting!

The Writer's Life

I think that a lot of folks think writers sit around all day eating and watching television and putting in an hour or two at their computers. Some days that might be true, but the majority of them are spent sitting on our butts while we write, edit and promote our writing.

Honestly, I find that the promoting part takes up  a great part of my time these days. There are blog posts, social media (primarily Facebook, Twitter, and Yahoo Groups), advertising, promotional items, contests and the list goes on. Not that I'm complaining. I love talking to readers and other writers, but some days it does feel a little overwhelming.

I've often said I can put in the equivalent of a days work in a two hour period in the morning. How? Once I sit at my computer (the one without internet access) and start writing, I don't move, I don't look away and I don't stop. I'm a very focused person once I begin writing, but the downside is that I can usually only get one writing session in a day because I've got nothing creatively left to give after one of these sessions. But that's okay. It works for me.

And when I'm not writing or promoting...I'm thinking about writing and promoting. I work from home so I never leave work. My desk is in the corner of my living room, a constant reminder that I should be working. So, many evenings you'll find me with my head buried in a book. It's relaxing, but it's also market research...at least that's what I tell myself. *g*

Now I'm off to work!

Some great links to check out:

Adele Dubois' Blog on her experience at Bob Mayer's Writer's Workshop.

Redlines and Deadlines blog lets you know what authors are celebrating 10 years with Ellora's Cave. Check out the Orginal Bad Girls of Romance

Helping Kate Hill Celebrate 10 years as an Ellora's Cave Author!

Kate Hill is celebrating her 10th Anniversary as an Ellora's Cave author and I'm helping her celebrate. All month long, Kate is interviewing other Ellora's Cave authors. Be sure to check out my interview up today at Kate Hill's Blog.

Also, be sure to check out  Kate Hill's Website for a complete listing of events. While you're there, be sure to enter the latest 10th Anniversary Contest. Kate is giving away a ton of fabulous prizes all month long!

August Full Moon & Newsletter Reminder

Welcome to August! There is a full moon tonight, the first of two for this month. Some folks say the crazies come out on the full moon, werewolves too. There is little doubt that the moon does have an affect on us, so this should be an interesting month.

NEWSLETTER REMINDER:

If you’re not already receiving Awakening Desires Newsletter—the Newsletter of Romance Author N.J. Walters—then you’re missing out on all the latest news, author interviews, excerpts and tons more!

You’re also missing out on a chance to win! Every newsletter, some lucky newsletter subscriber will win a download from my available backlist.

To join and to read back issues, just go to Awakening Desires Newsletter. The July/August issue is now available!

Tuesday Teaser: The Seduction of Shamus O'Rourke

This week's Tuesday Teaser is from The Seduction of Shamus O'Rourke, which is part of the Jamesville series. Shamus is one of my favorite heroes I've ever written!

TEASER:

Shamus crowded in next to her and she was forced to widen her legs to give him room. He edged closer so that her legs were on either side of his. He was huge as he loomed over her. His large hands cupped the sides of her face as he leaned down. “You are an amazing woman, Cyndi.”

The sincerity in his voice brought tears to her eyes. This man saw only the good in her. “I wasn’t always a very nice person.” She felt the need to be honest with him.

“All that’s behind you now.” He rubbed his nose against hers. “Someday you’ll tell me why you did the things that you did.” She made a sound of protest, which he hushed by placing one finger across her lips. “When you’re ready,” he murmured, dropping soft kisses on her temple and down the line of her jaw.

She tipped her head to one side to give him better access. He made a deep rumbling sound in his chest, and she knew her action had pleased him. She wanted him to kiss her, but felt the need to protest at the same time. “Shamus, you’re so much younger than me.” That had been bothering her somewhat. “Maybe we shouldn’t do this.”

He nipped the sensitive skin at the base of her neck, making her jump. “Of course we should do this.”

Summer Heat...

I'm chatting about the summer heat and the memories it brings back from childhood over on the Samhain Blog today. Be sure to stop by and check it out.

New Cover--Damek's Redemption

Check out my awesome new cover for Damek's Redemption, coming from Samhain Publishing on October 30th!

Tuesday Teaser--Tempting Tori

There seems to be a lot of love for cowboys lately, so this week's Tuesday Teaser is from Tempting Tori. J.T. Courage is one heck of a sexy cowboy.

Tuesday Teaser:

She took a deep breath and knew immediately it was a mistake. His scent—clean male sweat, sandalwood soap, leather and hay—filled her nostrils. But below it all was the smell of J. T., the one man who had the ability to set her on fire with barely a look or a touch.

His large hands grasped her shoulders and she tilted her head back to look at him. Pale blue eyes, like lasers, pierced her very soul. He looked as tortured as she felt. Tori shook her head, not understanding.

He took the slight movement of her head as another “no” and shook her slightly. “You’re not leaving.”

Monday, Monday

A question to ponder for sure. lol I'm a vegetarian, but I've been known to indulge in animal crackers a time or two.

Up very early this morning as hubby is gone on an overnight business trip and his flight left very, very early. It's eight o'clock and I've written 2K so far this morning. Not bad, but I think I need a nap.

Hoping this is a better week for writing as this has been a very slow summer for me. Some writers can write for long stretches at a time. I find I have about two hours in me for the day and I'm usually done. The old brain won't do any more creatively. I find it fascinating how different authors work--some need quiet, others can write anywhere; some write at night, others in the morning; some can write for long stretches, while others can only write in short spurts. Personally, I'm at my best in the morning before my brain gets cluttered with other things. And I need quiet. Can't write to music as my attention gets fractured.

I try to take weekends off from writing, not that it always works out that way, but I figure if I want to keep doing this for the next twenty-plus years I need to have some kind of schedule to keep from burning out.

Authors are always working--creating new stories, writing blog posts, checking social media and yahoo groups, working on advertising and promotional items, etc... The list is long and varied and can be overwhelming at times, but I wouldn't change it for the world. I love what I do and feel privleged to be able to do it. But living and working in the same space can leave you feeling like you're always working, even when you're not.

I'm thinking about taking August away from all the other distractions and concentrating solely on my writing. A lot will depend on what happens between now and the end of July. If I get my writing back on track, I'll simply keep on going as I am. But if I keep stalling, I'll probably unplug from eveything else for a while and throw myself into what I like to do best--writing!

Have a fabulous Monday.

Hmmm...now I want animal crackers. *g*

4 Stars for Touch of Topaz

Night Owl Reviews has given Touch of Topaz a 4 Star review. Here's a snippet of what reviewer, Chris, has to say.

"Another contribution to the Awakening Desires Series. I thoroughly enjoyed the alpha male that was John Knight, and look forward to his twin’s story in the future...Full of anticipation and erotically forceful sex this was a read that entertained."

Read Entire Review

It's all about perspective

So hubby and I went out for breakfast this morning to the local A & W and we got to talking about writing, which is going to happen from time to time because we're both writers. I was saying how I plan to write one more Tapestries book, but that I'm finished with the Legacy series for now.

"I have nothing left to say in that series," I foolishly said.

"What character do readers ask about most?" hubby asked.

"Damek," I replied. "And his book is coming out in October." I hesitated and said in a small voice. "They ask about Craig too, but it's a paranormal series and he's human."

"Think of what it's like for him living in that world among all those other extraordinary creatures while he's human."

"Hmm," I replied, fearing I heard the creak of the wheels starting to turn in my head.

"He's living on the fringes of that world without really being a part of it," hubby continued.

I guess it's all about perspective and hubby's comment started an entire conversation in my head and before long the ideas were flowing. We talked a while longer about other things, but as we left the restaurant I turned to him and said, "Damn you, now I'm going to have to write Craig's book."

The storyline is churning in my brain. I won't get to it until December or January at the earliest as I have two other books that HAVE to be written first. But then...then I think I'll revisit the Legacy series and Craig Lawton. Turns out, I only thought I was done with this series.