Want to Win a Print Book

By The Book is now available in print. To celebrate, I’m giving away two PRINT copies. To find out how to enter for a chance to win, go to my website and click on the “contest” page for details.

Amanda Barrington has moved to Jamesville to start a new life, but someone in this quiet town is trying to kill her.

Former soldier, Jonah Sutter, has returned home to help his sister pick up the pieces of her life. Sparks fly when he and Amanda meet.

He takes on the job of fixing the wiring in her house and ends up protecting her from her stalker. When Amanda is attacked again, all bets are off. And Jonah is no longer playing By The Book.

Monday, Monday...

Good morning and welcome to another week. I was watching the Toronto Santa Claus parade on television last night and I realized it was only 40 days until Christmas. Time is slipping away quickly.

Did a little bit of shopping on the weekend. Still don't know what I'm getting for hubby. Thankfully, the gifts don't really matter. As long as we're together, have a roof over our heads and food on the table, it's a wonderful Christmas. I never take any of the blessings in my life for granted. The presents, decorations and all the other stuff is just the icing on the cake.

Have a great week!

Publishers Weekly Blog

Barabara Vey over at the Publishers Weekly Blog gave a shout out for Trick or Treat this past Friday!

How cool is that. :-)

Flashback Friday

It's Friday the 13th, but I don't think that's a bad thing. After all, it's Friday!

It's been a few weeks since the last Flashback Friday, but I'm picking up where I left off with the Tapestries series.

Woven Dreams is the third book in the Tapestries series.

BLURB:

In Javara, women are scarce and brothers must share a woman, although only one can claim her as a wife. Scarred and maimed from a battle fought almost a year ago, Jarmon Bakra is afraid chances are slim that he and his twin brother, Garrik, will find a bride.

While on a hunting trip, the brothers stumble upon a woman claiming to be a tapestry bride. Now that fate has dropped a beautiful, courageous woman in their path, they will both use all their sexual skills separately and together to convince her to stay.

But Genny has secrets of her own and they have only three days to uncover the truth.


Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

5 Book Review for Alexandra's Legacy

Long and Short Reviews has given Alexandra's Legacy 5 Books. Here's a snippet of what the reviewer had to say:

"N.J. Walters has written a love story. Granted, the hero and heroine are not your everyday boy and girl in love. After all, they are wolves at heart, and wolves do mate for life. And when these two finally do mate, the heat can peel the paint off the walls...N. J. Walters writes with such passion and gives so much to all of these characters. This is one to read more than once and enjoy every time. But don’t be surprised if your fingers blister just a bit; I promise it is worth it in the end."

~Holly

You can read the entire review at Long and Short Reviews .

Remembrance Day

Today is Remembrance Day in Canada and Veteran's Day in the USA. Many countries around the world mark this day as we all stop and remember the men and women of the Armed Forces who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their countries.

Lest We Forget...

In Flanders Field

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

— Lt.-Col. John McCrae (1872 - 1918)

A Festive Weekend

I know the holidays are still about seven weeks away, but I was in the spirit of things this weekend. Hubby and I went to a fine craft and design fair Saturday morning. I'm always amazed at how talented folks are. There were hand-stitched teddy bears, locally made chocolate, textile arts, carvings, woodwork, knitted crafts, and tons more.

I also started Christmas shopping. Yes, I said Christmas shopping. I like to get out and shop before the stores get too crowded. I don't mind shopping in December, but I like to have the bulk of it done before then. Not that my list is all that extensive. My family doesn't go overboard on the holidays, so that makes things easier for everyone.

Sunday afternoon, I put a Christmas CD on the stereo and spent a couple of hours working on my Christmas cards. I always mail my cards on the first of December. I know, I'm early, but I can't help myself.

Hey, I'm not as bad as I used to be. Back when I was a teenager, I'd have about 80% of my shopping done by the end of August. *g* I've mellowed.

Hope you all enjoyed your weekend.

5 Hearts for Have Mercy

This has been a great week for reviews! I just received a 5 Heart review for Have Mercy, Book 2 of the Project Alpha series and my latest Ellora's Cave release. Here's a snippet:

"...these two strong and compelling characters will have you laughing and panting in excitement at the sexual scenes of love making, along with the added drama of both Mercy and Logan fighting to stay alive."

~Margo Arthur

Check out the entire review at The Romance Studio.

The Romance Studio also gave Embracing Silence, Book 1 of the Project Alpha series a 4 Heart reviews. Here's a snippet:

"Tienan was everything we love in a hero- tough, sexy, ever-so-dangerous and absolutely entranced by the heroine. He was a strong character with unexpected emotional vulnerabilities especially in regards to the heroine that was very touching and added much to his characterisation. Silence was also a wonderful character that was well-rounded and did her part to carry the story and move the plot. The chemistry and sexual connection between the protagonists founded a good foundation for their growing relationship and was absolutely scorching."

~Auriel

Check out the entire review at The Romance Studio.

Recommended Read for Alexandra's Legacy!

Alexandra's Legacy has received a 5 Angel review and a RECOMMENDED READ from Fallen Angel Reviews. Here's a little of what reviewer, Contessa, had to say:

"Alexandra's Legacy is the first book in N.J. Walters' Legacy series and what an amazing introductory story that it is...Joshua and Alex both complimented each other very well, and the passion portrayed between them was scorching hot to say the least. The action-packed plot kept me hanging on the edge of my seat with exciting anticipation eager to discover just how the breathtaking story would unfold. I can't wait to get my hands on the next thrilling novel in this series!"


Read the entire review at: Fallen Angel Reviews


Paranormal Romance Reviews had this to say about Alexandra's Legacy:

"I highly recommend this to paranormal romance lovers. You might want to get a fan - this story isn't just good - it's HOT!"

~Reviewed by Nancy Eriksen

Read the entire review at: Paranormal Romance Reviews

Have Mercy Needs Your Vote!

Have Mercy is up for Book of the Month at Dark Diva Reviews. Readers have one week to vote for their favorite book. Please stop by Dark Diva Reviews and vote!

November Newsletter Now Available!

If you’re not already receiving Awakening Desires—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 month!

The November 2009 issue is now available! Check out the this month’s author interview with Ashlyn Chase. As well, be sure to catch the lastest installment of Confessions of a Romance Author's Husband, my hubby's popular column. There is also an excerpt from my latest Ellora's Cave release, Have Mercy!

As well, each month, some lucky newsletter subscriber wins a prize. All you have to do to be eligible to win next month is to go to Awakening Desires Newsletter to join and read back issues.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN TO ONE AND ALL!

Halloween Facts

Here are some pictures of old Halloween post cards. I love the graphics on these cards and have a small collection of my own. (Although, I don't own either of these cards.)

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Here are a few interesting tidbits about Halloween compliments of Wikipedia!

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Halloween (also spelled Hallowe'en) is an annual holiday celebrated on October 31. It has roots in the Celtic festival of Samhain and the Christian holy day of All Saints.

The day is often associated with the colors black and orange, and is strongly associated with symbols like the jack-o'-lantern.

Trick-or-treating is a customary celebration for children on Halloween. Children go in costume from house to house, asking for treats such as candy or sometimes money, with the question, "Trick or treat?" The word "trick" refers to a (mostly idle) threat to perform mischief on the homeowners or their property if no treat is given. In some parts of Ireland and Scotland children still go guising. In this custom the child performs some sort of show, i.e. sings a song or tells a ghost story, in order to earn their treats.

Halloween costumes are traditionally those of monsters such as ghosts, skeletons, witches, and devils. They are said to be used to scare off demons.

Some games traditionally played at Halloween are forms of divination. A traditional Irish and Scottish form of divining one's future spouse is to carve an apple in one long strip, then toss the peel over one's shoulder. The peel is believed to land in the shape of the first letter of the future spouse's name. Unmarried women were told that if they sat in a darkened room and gazed into a mirror on Halloween night, the face of their future husband would appear in the mirror.

Check out more facts about Halloween on Wikipedia .

Fresh Pick at Fresh Fiction

Trick or Treat, a print anthology from Pocket Books and Ellora's Cave, is the Fresh Pick over at Fresh Fiction!

Something else to celebrate today!

A Milestone

I can't believe that it was 5 years ago today that my very first book--Annabelle Lee--was published by Ellora's Cave Publishing. The time has flown by so quickly. I've learned so much in those five years, it's staggering to think about some days. When I began I had no idea what a chat group was, never thought I'd have a website and didn't even know what a blog was.

This month saw my 40th book published. That makes 32 from Ellora's Cave and 8 from Samhain Publishing. Some days I have to pinch myself to make sure it's real.

I'm hoping the next five years are just as exciting. It's a wonderful thing to be able to make a living doing something I love. I never lose sight of that and I never take it for granted.

Thank you to all the readers out there who've helped make this possible. You've changed my life and made it better.

Fire Alarms and Craft Fairs

Last night I jolted awake at about 1:40 pm as the fire alarm went off in our apartment building. Having lived here a while, I didn't automatically jump out of bed and run. The alarms go off frequently in these buildings.

However, being smart, I got out of bed and looked out the window to see if the fire department had shown up yet. Then I heard someone running down the corridor banging on apartment doors. That was enough for me. Hubby and I yanked on our clothes and headed downstairs. The fire trucks were pulling in as we hit the parking lot. A few minutes later, everyone was let back inside. False Alarm.

Try telling that to my body. The adrenaline rush left me wired and unable to sleep. I finally fell into a light sleep sometime after five, only to wake again just after six. It's going to be a long day.

But, I'm very grateful it was only a false alarm. Could have been a whole lot worse.

On a positive note, hubby and I went to a Christmas craft fair last Thursday. It ran all weekend, but hubby and I like to go early. It was fun. Didn't buy much, but I just enjoy looking at everything. We did buy fudge...three kinds--amaretto chocolate, cookie dough and a vanilla Bailies Irish Cream--all to die for. I had quite a sugar rush going on. LOL

It's Monday! Have a good one!

Howling at the Moon!

I'm Howling at the Moon over at Romance Readers at Heart Novel Thoughts and Book Talk Blog today. Actually, I'm talking about werewolves and my latest Samhain book, Alexandra's Legacy.

Stop by and check it out!

Leave a comment for a chance to win a download copy of Alexandra's Legacy.

New Cover!

I don't have a release date yet for this book, but I thought I'd share my cover.

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Sweet Charity is Adrian's book and the final book in the Project Alpha trilogy. Hopefully, I'll have a release date and an excerpt in the near future.

Vampire Books on Sale!

Ellora's Cave has a special on Vampire Books. If you've ever thought about trying any of the books from my Dalakis Passion Vampire series, now is a great time to buy them.

Special!!!

Our Halloween Treat for You: 15% off all Vampire books now through October 31!
Just click on the link below. Enjoy reading!!!

BUY VAMPIRE BOOKS FROM ELLORA'S CAVE.

Flashback Friday!

Bakra Bride is the second book in the Tapestries series.

BLURB:

Jane Smith has the perfect corporate job, a beautiful apartment and an understanding boyfriend. She works long hours, but enjoys her life. It all begins to unravel the moment she witnesses a murder. Now her former life has vanished and she is left to rebuild again.

Just when things seem to be taking a turn for the better, the thrift store tapestry that she'd impulsively purchased magically transports her to Javara, a world that resembles medieval Earth, and into the arms of the Bakra brothers.

Zaren Bakra is shocked to discover that the tapestry has delivered Jane to Bakra land—as the tapestry prophecy has already been fulfilled for this generation. Their world is strange to Jane, and her very presence ignites violence and death.

Now the two brothers will use all their sexual skills, separately and together, to convince Jane to stay in Javara and choose one of them for her husband. But the tapestry will reappear in just three days. Will Jane return to her own time and all that is familiar or will she become the Bakra bride?


Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

Guest at Michelle Lauren's Blog!

I'm guest blogging over at Michelle Lauren's Blog today, talking about my latest Samhain Publishing release, Alexandra's Legacy. Stop by and check it out.

Trick or Treat

Trick or Treat is now available from Amazon.com and Simon and Schuster.

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This Halloween anthology contains four stories: Unmasking Kelly by me, NJ Walters, Sinderella by Jan Springer, Stolen Goddess by Tawny Taylor and Wolf in Cheap Clothing by Charlene Teglia. Be sure to check it out.

Alexandra's Legacy Available Today!

Alexandra’s Legacy is now available from Samhain Publishing.

The truth will set her free…or get her killed.

Alexandra Riley’s day starts out like any other in her normal, predictable world. Then a tall, dark stranger bursts into her father’s garage and shatters the illusion. In one shocking moment, she discovers why she’s been feeling hot, restless—she’s the half-breed daughter of a legendary werewolf and is a much-sought-after prize.

Joshua Striker, enforcer in charge of protecting the alphas of the Wolf Creek pack, has come to take Alex home. Nothing more, nothing less. From the first moment he sees her, she becomes the one thing he can’t afford—a distraction from his duty. A weakness he doesn’t want—but can’t resist needing.

If only keeping her safe was as simple as fending off males on the hunt for a mate. Through city streets to the mountains of North Carolina, Alex and Joshua have to evade those who don’t want their pure bloodlines tainted with human DNA, as well as bounty hunters who think the only good werewolf is a dead one.

What Joshua and Alex can’t outrun is the passion that flares between them—or the choice Alex must eventually face. Whether to claim her inner wolf, or forfeit her chance to claim Joshua as her own.

Dark is Sexy--Two Guest Blogs

Dark is sexy! I'm talking about vampire romances over at Erotic Muses Blog today. Stop by and check it out!

I'm also having fun today over at Nikki Duncan's Blog. In keeping with the dark is sexy theme, I'm Howling at the Moon. Actually, I'm talking about Alexandra's Legacy--my new werewolf romance due out from Samhain Publishing TOMORROW!

Check them both out

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It's Thanksgiving Weekend in Canada. I hope everyone has a safe and happy weekend with friends and family. Take a moment and give thanks for all the good things in your life.

The Future is Fascinating!

I'm talking about futuristic romances and my latest Ellora's Cave releases--Embracing Silence and Have Mercy--over at The Romance Studio Blue Blog today. Stop by and check it out!

Have Mercy--Available Today!

HAVE MERCY is available today from Ellora's Cave Publishing. This is book 2 in the futuristic/erotic Project Alpha trilogy.

BLURB:

Second in the Project Alpha series.

Earth 2133

Logan is an Alpha—a genetically enhanced assassin—who has escaped from the lab that created him. He is now outside the Gate, a high-tech shield that protects the enclosed city from the contaminated and lawless land outside. Shot while evading security forces sent to eliminate him, Logan’s only goal is survival.

Mercy Dockins is a healer. Her world is shaken to its foundations when a stranger is brought to her near death. As she heals him, her body and soul respond to him, overwhelming her with sexual desire. With little more than a look and a touch, passion flares out of control, consuming them both.

But this stranger is dangerous to not only her well-being, but also to the safety of everyone she loves. And he has brought the security forces right to her door.

Interview at Dark Diva Reviews

Check out my interview over at Dark Diva Reviews . It's Wicked Wednesday and I'm talking about my new releases for the month of October!

New Interview

Check out THE BLACKRAVENS' EROTIC CAFE for a new interview about writing, life and my two new releases for October!

Raven Scavenger Hunt

It's that time of year again!

The Raven Halloween Scavenger Hunt is now up and running for the entire month of October. Below are a list of prizes being given away. Click on the link above and start the scavenger hunt today!

PRIZES:

Autographed book Dragons Prefer Blondes by Candace Havens

E-book from N.J. Walters' backlist (winner's choice)

E-book from Bianca D'Arc's backlist (winner's choice)

E-book from Candice Gilmer's currently available backlist (winner's choice)

Belong to the Night by Cynthia Eden (print paranormal romance anthology)

Tea for Two by Shelley Munro (print)

November ebook from Cobblestone - THE DEMON NEXT DOOR: ALI by Kate Austin

Forbidden: The Sacrifice (eBook copy) by Samantha Sommersby

Autographed print book from Shiloh Walker's Backlist

E-book Divinity Warriors 1: Lilith Enraptured by Michelle M. Pillow

Mayan Secrets by Ciar Cullen (print US or Canada), ebook otherwise

E-book of Obsession (romantic suspense) by Sharon Cullen

Selkie Island by Jorrie Spencer

Autographed copy of Tempting Turquoise (print) by Amy Ruttan

Autographed copy of Hard Candy by Amanda Young

Adrienne (print) by D. Renee Bagby

Heart of the Volcano, ebook by Imogen Howson

E-book copy of Private Property by Leah Braemel

Furry, Fluffy & Wild (ebook anthology) by Nina Pierce

Venus In Blue Jeans (print) by Meg Benjamin

E-book copy of Lay Me Down in pfd format by Taige Crenshaw

The Forbidden Chamber (ebook) by Ella Drake

The Ghost Exterminator: A Love Story (ebook) by Vivi Andrews

Angelic Avenger (ebook) by Kaye Chambers

Featured Author at TRS

I'm a feature author over at The Romance Studio Blue Pages this month. If you have time, stop by and check out my interview!

Awakening Desires--October Newsletter Now Available!

If you’re not already receiving Awakening Desires—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 month!

The October 2009 issue is now available!

Check out the this month’s author interview with Marilu Mann.

As well, each month, some lucky newsletter subscriber wins a prize. All you have to do to be eligible to win next month is to go to Awakening Desires Newsletter to join and read back issues.

Guest blogging...

I'm guest blogging over at the Samhain Blog today. If you get a chance, drop by and check it out!

Discovering Dani--Free Kindle Download

From September 28th until October 12 my Samhain book, Discovering Dani , is available as a free kindle giveaway on Amazon.com. This is the first book in the Jamesville series. If you haven't had a chance to read it, you can do so now...for FREE!

Blurb:

Book 1 of Jamesville.

Dani O'Rourke has had the responsibility of raising her two brothers, Patrick and Shamus, since the death of their parents. As sole owner and operator of O'Rourke Cleaning Services, she is no stranger too hard work, but she is a beginner when it comes to men.

Burke is a very rich and successful businessman whose brush with death has made him question his priorities. He-s traveled to Jamesville for peace and quiet while he plans the rest of his life.

Their lives collide when Burke accuses her of breaking into his cabin to steal from him. Their attraction to each other is immediate, and after a series of misunderstandings he finds himself caught up in the lives of Dani and her brothers.

But can this gentle, giving woman get a man as hard and cynical as Burke to believe in the power of love? Or will Burke leave town without ever discovering the wonders of life with Dani?

Technology...gotta love it!

Discovering Dani is an app!

You can read it on your cell phone. How cool is that!

Flashback Friday!

Christina's Tapestry is the first book in the Tapestries series, and one of my most popular books. This ménage à trois was originally written as a stand alone book, but the Tapestries series now has four books with another one currently in the works.

BLURB:

Christina Beaumont impulsively buys an expensive tapestry that she sees in a shop window, having no idea how that one action will change her life. The magical tapestry not only transports her to Javara, a world that resembles medieval Earth, but also into the arms of two massive warriors who both want to claim her.

Jarek and Marc, Brothers of the House of Garen, are elated to discover the tapestry has delivered Christina to them. Women are scarce in their world, so the men of a family must compete for the right to be her husband. But before she can choose, Christina first has to experience the lovemaking of both brothers, separately and together. Jarek and Marc use all their considerable sexual skills to pleasure her in ways she's never imagined.

But the tapestry also offers another choice. Christina could return to her own world. Jarek and Marc join forces to convince Christina to stay with them even as they fight a rival family for the right to keep her as their very own.

Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

Welcome to Fall!

The time has come, the seasons are changing. Today is the Fall Equinox, which marks the "official" end of summer and welcomes the oncoming fall. I love this time of year--the colorful leaves, the crisp air, the pumpkins.

So enjoy this first day of autumn. Embrace the season!

Ellora's Cave Book Sale!

Celebrate the end of summer, maybe even start your Christmas gift shopping early, with our great book sale.

Save 10% on your entire order! Ellora's Cave and Cerridwen Press,
ebooks and print books.

Use coupon code L8SUMR2009 when placing your order on the website.

Good through midnight, September 22, 2009 (US Eastern Time). (For print
books, up to that date while supplies last, based on inventory on hand.)

Go to Ellora's Cave and start shopping now!

Flashback Friday!

Eternal Brothers is the fourth book in the Dalakis Passion vampire series, but can be read as a stand alone book. I loved writing this book. I got a chance to bring back all the Dalakis brothers. As well, I got to tell Sam Cassidy's story--he's a cop who meets the Dalakis family in Lucian's Delight.

Zane York is a formidable opponent and not about to give up or give in to anyone or anything. He's also very sexy. *g*

BLURB:

The Dalakis brothers are rich, powerful men, but they have secrets — the kind that men kill to protect. Ex-cop Zane York has watched them for several years and has returned to New Orleans to resume his investigation. He has to know if his suspicions are true — are the Dalakis brothers murderous vampires?

Reporter Sophia Daring has had many tough assignments in her life, but nothing has prepared her for the late-night phone call, which leads her to the cemetery and to the body of a dead woman. The murderer drained all the blood from his victim's body and the clues point straight to the Dalakis family.

The attraction between Zane and Sophia is instantaneous and explosive. But Zane has secrets of his own and questions that need answering. Are the Dalakis family the villains or are they being framed for murder? As Zane and Sophia investigate the grisly string of deaths, they discover that the murderer may not be the family's only enemy…and a secret from the past may bring the deadliest threat yet.

Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

Got Questions?

October marks the 3rd anniversary of my newsletter. This means, it's also the third anniversary of my hubby's popular column--"Confessions of a Romance Writer's Husband."

To celebrate, he's opening the door for questions. If there is anything you want to ask him about me, about himself, about anything, simply email your question to nj@njwalters.com and I'll make sure he gets your question. Please put "Newsletter Question" in the subject of your email.

Depending on how many questions he receives he may not be able to answer them all. He'll do his best!

Print Book on Sale!

The PRINT version of Katie's Art of Seduction is now on sale over at Ellora's Cave for only $7.99. If you've always been curious about this book, now is a good time to try it. There are a lot of other print books on sale too. Be sure and check them out. You also get a free book with your order (EC's choice). Great deal!

BLURB:

From the moment the woman's portrait in the window of a coffee shop caught Cain Benjamin's attention, he resolved to possess not only it, but her as well. Determined to find the mysterious beauty, he sets out to locate the artist. If he can find the artist, he's sure he can find the woman in the picture.

Katie Wallace's schedule at Coffee Breaks allows her to earn a living and still have time to pursue her love of painting. When her boss and friend convinces her to display one of her self-portraits in the shop window, she is apprehensive, but elated when it sells—until she meets the portrait owner.

Katie finds herself captivated by Cain, the tall, mysterious man who lurks in the shadows and is obsessed with her self-portrait. And Cain is even more intrigued by Katie, as he discovers her painting is not nearly as sensual as the woman herself.

Cain's mesmerizing and commanding personality entices Katie into the shadows with him. But Katie is equally determined to uses all her artistry to seduce him back into the light of day with her.


Buy Katie's Art of Seduction

Quote of the Week!

"The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, nor to worry about the future, but to live the present moment wisely and earnestly."

~Buddha

Such simple advice, yet so incredibly hard to do. Welcome to Monday! Hope you all have a wonderful week.

Flasback Friday!

Stefan's Salvation is the third book in the Dalakis Passion series. Stefan is the youngest Dalakis brother. He was supposed to be the laid back, comic relief. NOT! He ended up being the most dangerous and powerful of the bunch. And I absolutely adore him.

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BLURB:

Stefan Dalakis has been wandering the countryside for months. Ever since both his brothers found their mates, loneliness has been his constant companion. He's been searching for five centuries but has been unable to find the one woman whom he can love. When his travels lead him to a small roadside bar in North Carolina, he overhears a conversation that will change his life forever.

Laurel Rose McCaffey always knew she was different. Some say she has the Sight. Others say she's a witch. Most are afraid of her, but they've left her alone. That's always been fine by her. But now strange things are happening and the peaceful life she's built for herself is being threatened. Developers want her land and a lot of the townsfolk are pressuring her to sell.

A dark stranger enters her world, a man who both fascinates and frightens her. As her world spirals out of control and the threats escalate into outright violence, Laurel Rose turns to the one man she's come to trust — a vampire!

Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

Blueberry Goodness

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Look what I did yesterday. I had just enough fresh blueberries to make a cake. They came from my mom's backyard. She picked them just before she came to town on her last visit.

I have to say that it's very yummy!

October Extravaganza

I know it's only September, but I'm already getting ready for October. I have TWO new releases due out in October. Have Mercy, book 2 in the Project Alpha series, is due out from Ellora’s Cave Publishing on October 7th. Alexandra's Legacy, the first book in my new werewolf series, is due out from Samhain Publishing on October 13th.

To celebrate, I'm giving away a download copy of both books. Go to my website and click on the "contests" page for details on how to enter.

Quote of the Week!

"A synonym is a word you use when you can't spell the other one."

~Baltasar Gracián

I'll admit that this quote made me chuckle. I'm guily of doing this. Thanks heavens for spell check. Although, some days even that doesn't help me come up with the word I'm looking for. *g*

There are days when I can't think of the exact word I want, especially when I'm writing a rough draft and don't want to stop long enough to figure it out. Sometimes I'll even put XXXX there until I think of the word I want.

Hope you all had a wonderful holiday weekend. It's a short work week for many folks. Enjoy!

Happy Labor Day Weekend!

Happy Labor Day weekend to you all.

I hope everyone is enjoying this last long weekend of summer.

Catch you all on Tuesday!

Guest Blogging and a Chance to Win

The future is now. Why are we so fascinated by futuristic romances? Check out my guest blog over at The Romance Studio Blue Blog today. I'm chatting about that subject as well as my latest futuristic trilogy, Project Alpha.

I'm also participating in The Romance Studio's The Book-a-Day Giveaway today. If you'd like to have a chance to win a download copy of my latest Ellora's Cave release, Embracing Silence, then pop over and enter.

By The Book Now Available in Print!

I'm thrilled to announce that By The Book is now available in PRINT from Samhain Publishing! Be sure to check it out.

BLURB:

Jamesville, Book 6

Amanda Barrington hopes Jamesville is the right place for her rare-book business—and her new life. The moving truck barely pulls away before both are off to a rousing start. It’s not her new customer that’s caught her attention, though. It’s the customer’s brother, Jonah Sutter.

From the moment cynical, ex-military Jonah sets eyes on Amanda, he burns for her like a house afire—which is what she’s going to have if she doesn’t get her house’s electrical system overhauled. He knows he’s not a forever kind of guy, but he’s more than willing to be her fix-it man. In more ways than one.

When unexpected danger threatens, Jonah finds himself dealing with more than just the desire to get Amanda into bed.

Protecting her means moving in, which exposes them both to a new danger—losing their hearts.

September Newsletter Now Available!

If you’re not already receiving Awakening Desires—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 month!

The September 2009 issue is now available!

Check out the this month’s author interview with Christine d’Abo.

As well, each month, some lucky newsletter subscriber wins a prize. All you have to do to be eligible to win next month is to go to Awakening Desires Newsletter to join and read back issues.

Monday, Monday!

If it's Monday, why does it feel like Friday?

I spent the morning getting a bunch of errands run and managed to work in about an hour and a half at my writing as well. I'm working on a project that's just for me. No publisher is waiting for it. I want to give myself a few weeks to tinker with the idea and see what comes from it.

The weekend was quiet. Unless, of course, you count the moose running around in the courtyard outside my apartment building on Sunday morning. I happened to look out the window after breakfast and saw several cop cars, one of which was one the lawn. I took a better look and saw the moose calmly standing in front of the building right across from mine. My camera isn't the best so I didn't get any good pictures. I'll double check later and post some if they're any good.

That's it for me today. I've got to run. I just got a call from a delivery company saying they have a package for me. I think it might be my print books from Samhain. *fingers crossed* I'll let you know.

Have a great day.

New Review for Endless Chase

Endless Chase just received a great review from Alternative-Read.com. Here's a snippet of what the reviewer had to say:

"This one was a bit different from the norm in only the best of ways (and nope I am not telling how- spoiler, spoiler), and I enjoyed immensely the fact that it was done with intellect, wit, style and a delicate trace of humor to make this one a "sit back and enjoy" read that can be savored. I will say that there are unexpected turns and shifts that catch you a bit off guard, but this just makes it more fun to read."

~WitchGiggles, Alternative-Read.com

Catch the entire review at: http://tjbook-list.blogspot.com/2009/08/review-endless-chase-dalakis-passion.html

New Ellora's Cave Contest!

In preparation for our 10 year anniversary in 2010, we are launching a huge, fun contest today with fantastic prizes!

For details, check out our video on You Tube.

Or our website contest page.


Win a Sony or Asus netbook computer

Just answer this question to enter our contest to win a netbook computer:
How has Ellora’s Cave erotic romance improved your sex life?


Prying minds want to know: Have EC books taught you new positions or bedroom games? Given you a new lease on your love life—with yourself or your lover? Taught him or her how to please you better? Given you permission to go for more O’s? Tell us all about it. We’re dying for details…


Three ways to enter:

Via You Tube (for video entries):
Post your video answer to your YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/) page with this title: How Ellora’s Cave Improved My Sex Life: Your Name
Email a link to your video to EllorasContest@gmail.com

2 Grand Prizes (1 for readers’ choice and 1 for judges’ choice): Sony netbook computer
Semi-finalist Prizes: Free download from Ellora’s Cave

Via Email (for written entries):
Email your written answer to EllorasContest@gmail.com
Put “EC Contest” in the subject line

2 Grand Prizes (1 for readers’ choice and 1 for judges’ choice): Asus netbook computer
Semi-finalist Prizes: Free download from Ellora’s Cave

Via Twitter:
Tweet your written answer on Twitter: Use this hashtag: #ECsex
Grand Prize: $100 Ellora’s Cave gift certificate


The rules:
1. Deadline: Midnight, December 31, 2009
2. All Twitter entries must use this hashtag: #ECsex
3. All emailed written entries must have this in subject line: EC Contest
4. All YouTube entries must have this title on the video: How Ellora’s Cave Improved My Sex Life: Your Name.
5. Ellora’s Cave staff may not enter the contest
6. Ellora’s Cave author entries will be judged separately and winners will receive free ads. Author entries must identify author by pen name in the email.
7. Entries will be posted on http://sextalkforwickedwomen.blogspot.com/ in batches for voting. Winner of each batch will become a semi-finalist. All semi-finalists will go into final Grand Prize voting round.

The above video was shot at the 2009 Romantic Times Booklovers Convention in Orlando. The winner of this first round was Susan Clarke, who won an Apple gift certificate.
Others appearing in this video are, in order of appearance
Ashlyn Chase
Mari Freeman and her bf Mike
Renee Myer
Susan Clarke
Tea Trelawny
The video was shot by Will Duke, edited by Syneca Featherstone and produced by Susan Edwards.

Another New Cover!

Check out this amazing cover!

Alexandra's Legacy is up on the Coming Soon pages of Samhain Publishing! This is the first book in my new werewolf series releasing on October 13th!

BLURB:

Alexandra Riley’s day starts out like any other in her normal, predictable world. Then a tall, dark stranger bursts into her father’s garage and shatters the illusion. In one shocking moment, she discovers why she’s been feeling hot, restless—she’s the half-breed daughter of a legendary werewolf and is a much-sought-after prize.

Joshua Striker, enforcer in charge of protecting the alphas of the Wolf Creek pack, has come to take Alex home. Nothing more, nothing less. From the first moment he sees her, she becomes the one thing he can’t afford—a distraction from his duty. A weakness he doesn’t want—but can’t resist needing.

If only keeping her safe was as simple as fending off males on the hunt for a mate. Through city streets to the mountains of North Carolina, Alex and Joshua have to evade those who don’t want their pure bloodlines tainted with human DNA, as well as bounty hunters who think the only good werewolf is a dead one.

What Joshua and Alex can’t outrun is the passion that flares between them—or the choice Alex must eventually face. Whether to claim her inner wolf, or forfeit her chance to claim Joshua as her own.

The Week In Review

The last seven days have been strange in many ways. As some of you know, our main computer crashed and burned last week. We found out that they don't make motherboards like the one in ours anymore...how old is that?....LOL...so we had to buy a new computer. Well, not exactly a new one. We bought a lease return and they reused some of the parts from our old computer. It was cheap and is much better than our old one. The tech guy saved all our files, but there is still a lot of work loading programs and setting up things the way we like them. Lost all my bookmarks in my favorites. Oh well.

Could have been much worse.

In amongst the computer debacle, I had a new book release. I'm excited about the release of Embracing Silence. It's book one of the Project Alpha trilogy. This will be the first time I've ever had a series come out one book after the other. Have Mercy, book two, is releasing on October 7th.

I'm crossing my fingers that this will be a quiet, normal week. But then I ask myself: What is normal? In my home, that covers just about anything.

Have a great week!

New Cover!

check out the cover for my next Ellora's Cave Publishing release.

Have Mercy, is the next book in the Project Alpha series and is due out on October 7th!

Embracing Silence Available Today!

The Alphas have arrived!

Embracing Silence, the first book in the Project Alpha trilogy, is available today from Ellora's Cave Publishing.

BLURB: Embracing Silence

Earth 2133

Tienan is an Alpha—an assassin who has been genetically and computer enhanced. He has escaped from the lab that created him and the Ruling Council that controlled him. He is now outside the Gate—a high-tech shield that protects the enclosed city from the contaminated and lawless land outside. Tienan must constantly evade security forces sent to eliminate him, his only goal to destroy his former masters.

Silence is a tracker with the Resistance on the trail of a dangerous stranger. The hunter becomes the hunted and when Tienan kidnaps her, she thinks her life is over. But both captor and captive are enthralled with one another. Desire and need ignite each time they touch. Enemies become lovers.

Treachery and mistrust drive them apart. But nothing can diminish the sexual heat smoldering between them. With enemies all around, they must confront each other one final time. With time running out, sexual longing and trust battle with betrayal for supremacy.

Quote of the Week!

"I try to leave out the parts that people skip."

~Elmore Leonard

This quote made me laugh. It's also a very good reminder to all writers.

I'm currently working on rewrites for my latest book, trying to get it into top shape to submit to my editor. The trick is to step back from your writing and be brutal with it. You have to ask yourself that question: "Will people skip this part?" If the answer is yes, you have two choices. You can rewrite it and make it into something people want to read. Or you can cut it. That's the choice you have to make as a writer. The worst thing you can do is leave it in just because you happen to be attached to it. It doesn't matter how brilliant the prose is if it doesn't help advance the story.

Contest Reminder!

To celebrate the August 21st release of Embracing Silence from Ellora's Cave Publishing, I'm holding a contest and giving away a download copy.

For details on how to enter, just go to my website and click on the “Contests” page.

Flashback Friday

Here's a look back at Lucian’s Delight, the second book in the Dalakis Passion series. In this book you meet the second Dalakis brother--Lucian--and the woman that will change his life.


BLURB: Lucian's Delight

Book 2 in the Dalakis Passion series

At twenty-eight, Delight Deveraux enjoys her family, work and independence. But all that changes when she witnesses her boss being murdered. Suddenly, she is running for her life, pursued by the murderers who now wish to silence her. She is saved by a mysterious stranger whom she met only once before in her dreams.

Dalakis men love only once in their life, so for hundreds of years, Lucian Dalakis has searched for his mate. He is shocked when she turns up unexpectedly in his dreams. Now that he knows she exists, he will stop at nothing to find her and bind her to him.

The explosive sexual chemistry between them sends Delight reeling. Not only does she have to deal with the fact that she is still being pursued by criminals, but the man she is falling in love with is a vampire!

Delight struggles with her growing attraction to Lucian, even as she tries to protect him from the scrutiny of the police detectives investigating the murder. But the threat to her still exists and when her brother is kidnapped, Lucian takes matters into his own hands.

Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

Quote of the Week!

"If we are facing in the right direction,
all we have to do is keep on walking."

~Buddhist proverb

Sometimes I might not always know what I'm doing, but I tell myself that I'm going in the right direction and that's all that matters.

Monday, Monday...

Good morning and welcome to Monday. Thanks to everyone who voted for Past Promises at the Long and Short Book of the Week contest. It didn't win, but that's okay, I'm still thrilled it received a 5-book review.

This weekend was interesting to say the least. Friday evening, I developed a mysterious food allergy that caused me to break out in hives. Not pretty, but not life-threatening. No sign of breathing problems or anything like that.

Thankfully, hubby went out to the pharmacy and brought home something that cleared them up. The problem: I hadn't eaten anything I hadn't eaten a thousand times before. No new food that I could pinpoint and say "Ah ha!"

It happened twice on Saturday and again on Sunday after breakfast. Sunday lunch and supper was all fruit and vegetables, which I'm happy to report, are all okay. This morning, I'm trying multi-grain oatmeal. I want to see if it might be a wheat problem. If that's okay, I'll tackle dairy next.

I've been keeping a food diary of everything I've eaten, but there is absolutely nothing new. I have no idea where this new allergy came from. I guess I'll have to make a doctor's appointment at some point.

It's strange when your body suddenly rebels and does something totally unexpected. Thankfully, I feel totally healthy other than the hives. It could be worse.

I'll keep you updated on the search for the mystery food.

Have a great Monday!

Past Promises--Please Vote

My Samhain book, PAST PROMISES is up for Book Of The Week at Long and Short Reviews.

If you enjoyed my book, please click the link above and add your vote. :-)

Flashback Friday

Here's a look back at Harker’s Journey, my very first vampire book. I had so much fun writing this one. It started when I was looking at Bram Stoker's Dracula and wondered--what if Jonathan Harker was real...what if he had descendants who had to travel to Transylvania to deal with a mysterious, but wealthy, client. What if that descendant was a woman named Johanna Harker.

Thus, Harker's Journey was born.



BLURB: Harker’s Journey

Book 1 Dalakis Passion

Johanna Harker’s life changed drastically on her eighteenth birthday—she received a copy of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, discovered her fascination with vampires, and experienced her first of many hot, erotic dreams, featuring a tall, dark and mysterious man.

For the next thirteen years, on the full moon, Johanna’s dream lover appeared. Sometimes his lovemaking was playful and tender, and on others he proved passionate and raw.

When no flesh and blood man can compete with her dream lover, Johanna puts all her energy into her job as an investment consultant and studying vampires. Her life is very quiet until she is sent to the fabled Carpathian mountains of Transylvania to meet her company’s largest client, the mysterious and demanding Cristofor Dalakis. And once again Johanna’s life takes a strange twist.

Cristofor, the enigmatic and formidable patriarch of the Dalakis family, believes that the men of his family are fated to love only once in their lifetime, and Cristofor has determined that the alluring Johanna is the one true mate for him. Ruthless and powerful, he plans to use his every skill to seduce and possess her.

But Cristofor is harboring a dark family secret that will challenge all that Johanna has known and believed.

Read an Excerpt

Purchase book

Research is Fun!

Research is fun! You never know what you might find that will spark an idea or two.

I'm discussing the research for my latest Ellora's Cave release, Amethyst Dreams, and the original "amethyst" book, Amethyst Moon. Stop by The Romance Studio Blog today and check it out!

Publisher's Weekly Mention...

There's an article in Publisher’s Weekly titled: Selling Sex in a Recession: Erotica.

It mentions that the Ellora's Cave Presents line published by Pocket Books will be releasing several anthologies this fall, including Trick or Treat, featuring work by N.J. Walters, Jan Springer, Charlene Teglia and Tawny Taylor, which is due out in October.

I'm thrilled about the mention. The funny thing is they're mostly talking about paranormal books at the time. The Trick or Treat anthology will feature my EC Quickie, Unmasking Kelly, which is a halloween story, but not a paranormal one. I do have a bunch of paranormal books, but this isn't one of them. Still, the article is about erotic romance, and Unmasking Kelly is certainly that.

I can't wait for October!

Vote for Endless Chase

Endless Chase is up for the favorite 5 Hearts Review Book of the Week from The Romance Studio. Vote today for your favorite book...maybe it might even be Endless Chase. :-)

VOTE HERE

August Newsletter Now Available!

If you’re not already receiving Awakening Desires—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 month!

The August 2009 issue is now available!

Check out the this month’s author interview with Claire Thompson.

As well, each month, some lucky newsletter subscriber wins a prize. All you have to do to be eligible to win next month is to go to Awakening Desires Newsletter to join and read back issues.

Flashback Friday

Anastasia’s Style was originally written as one of the Valentine Vixens series for Ellora's Cave. This Quickie is great for a quick read on a hot summer afternoon. Plus it's only $2.49. You can't go wrong!


BLURB:

Anastasia Style, owner of Hassle-free Holidays, is having anything but a hassle-free Valentine’s Day. Her normally reliable car has a flat and she has a delivery to make for a last minute, lucrative client. And if that wasn’t enough to make a woman crazy, she still has to make it to her lawyer’s office in time to sign her divorce papers.

She just has to set the stage for her client’s romantic evening and then she’s off to her lawyer’s office to officially end her marriage to Mason Style. Except her client has other ideas about how Anastasia will be spending her evening, and he has no intention of ever letting her go.

Read an Excerpt


Purchase Anastasia’s Style

New Cover!

Check out my cover for EMBRACING SILENCE, book 1 in the Project Alpha trilogy. Watch for it on August 21st from Ellora's Cave!

BLURB:

Earth 2133

Tienan is an Alpha—a genetically and computer enhanced assassin—who has escaped from the lab that created him and the Ruling Council who controlled him. He is now outside the Gate—a high tech shield, which protects the enclosed city from the contaminated and lawless land outside. Evading security forces sent to eliminate him, his only goal is to destroy his former masters.


Silence is a tracker with the Resistance on the trail of a dangerous stranger. The Hunter becomes the hunted and when Tienan kidnaps her, she thinks her life is over. But both captor and captive are enthralled with one another. Desire and need ignite each time they touch. Enemies become lovers.

Treachery and mistrust drive them apart. But nothing can diminish the sexual heat smoldering between them. With enemies all around them, they must confront each other one final time. With time running out, sexual longing and trust battle with betrayal for supremacy.

5 Hearts for Endless Chase

Endless Chase has received a 5 Heart review from The Romance Studio!

Here's a snippet of what reviewer, Abi, had to say:


"Those readers that have been following this series will be in for a treat. Chase's story is, I believe, the finale. However, I certainly wouldn’t object to more. It's an emotional journey. Powerful, tense, and at times nerve-racking, the story keeps the reader turning the pages and on the edge of their seat. N.J. cleverly leaves the reader guessing and only allows brief glimpses and unexpected turns, until she’s ready to enlighten. An exhilarating read that will not easily be forgotten after the last page is read.

While Endless Chase can and does stand alone, add this book the other four and you have an excellent continuity series that I highly recommend and is not to be missed. I doubt you’ll be disappointed."

~Abi

Check out the entire review at The Romance Studio.

Wedding Dance

My brother told me about this video and I thought I'd share it. It's the kind of thing that makes you smile.

After almost 22 years of marriage, I can tell you that a sense of humor will get you through a lot of hard times. This couple looks like they have a good foundation, and some great family and friends, if this video is any indication.

Wedding Video

Watch and enjoy!

Flashback Friday

My story A LOVE ETERNAL from the Ellora’s Cavemen: Legendary Tails IV anthology, is one of my favorites. Seth is one of the most compelling heroes I've ever written.

Blurb:

Sitting alone on a bridge late one night, Genevieve Alexander laments her safe, boring life. But when she attracts the attention of a dangerous, mysterious stranger known only as Seth, her entire world changes.

Accompanying him on his nocturnal journey through the dark streets and into the throbbing nightlife of the city, he introduces her to a world of sensual desires unlike anything she’s ever experienced. But Seth has a terrifying secret. Will she be able to throw off the shackles of her past and accept the risks that come with being with this sexy, compelling man?

Read an Excerpt

Purchase Book

Guest Blogging at The Romance Studio!

The summer is heating up!

But with everyone watching their budgets, can you still have fun this summer? You sure can. Check out my blog over at The Romance Studio for some helpful hints.

Big Print Book Sale at Ellora's Cave

Check out the great Print Books on Sale on over at Ellora’s Cave Publishing. There are tons of print books on sale for just $9.99.

Plus, you get a free print book with every order, two free books with every order over $35. How cool is that. (Free paperback books are selected at random.)

Threads of Destiny a Recommended Read

Threads of Destiny has been chosen as a Paranormal Romance Recommended Read for the month of June!

Here's a snippet of what reviewer, Stephanie Q. McGrath had to say:

"What a wonderful way to weave a tale for a character that so many of us loved. N.J. Walters has given us a fantastic and unique way to revisit a character that I personally had hoped would find happiness. I highly recommend you read this if you are one of the many fans of N.J. that wished to see Marc's story revisited. Heck, I recommend the whole series! Twists, turns, excitement and totally hot alpha male warriors...is there anything better?"

~Stephanie Q. McGrath, Paranormal Romance Reviews