Was this ever found...

Who Am I? Just wondering....

passion for fashion

Fashion hope she goes and finishes it... there are only two posts up and it is sort of nifty... I always have a hard time understanding all those layers they are wearing Anyone have any other links like this? I should go check out the risky regencies girls.

To blazes with the code.

Reviewing has a super secret code! Who Knew? I am so always the last to know. more like guidelines... Barbossa: First, your return to shore was not part of our negotiations nor our agreement so I must do nothing. And secondly, you must be a pirate for the pirate's code to apply and you're not. And thirdly, the code is more what you'd call "guidelines" than actual rules. Welcome aboard the Black Pearl, Miss Turner. hee I know that is from one but WoOT! you all do know that PoC:Dead Man's Chest is coming to DVD soon right?

minions....misty water-colored minions

Now you may have noticed I hold Amazon reviews to mean just about nothing. I am sorry and I have been told, asked, whatever to look into putting reviews on Amazon as well as my blog, so it is something that I keep trying to look at as a useful tool. Today I find it wonderful in a very Highland Fling, WolfTales sort of way. Lets take a look... the book in question: JACOB: The Nightwalkers by Jacquelyn Frank the players: L. Arendt She loves it! FIVE STARS! GREAT three line review that goes into awesome detail to tell you WHY you should love this book too. Now I would mention she has one review to her name. And all her tags are regarding one book. But really do I need to point that out? RENEE NELSON She loves it too! FIVE STARS! Great four line review that goes into awesome detail to tell you WHY you should love this book too. And is a serious amazon reviewer with two great reviews to her name ::coughsecondaddedtodayandnotabook::. Fathom 31 reviews... all not created in the last day or so... GO TEAM FATHOM. Hell do you have a blog? I know you won't see this but I think I love you! A real reader review! Fair, balanced, what you liked what you didn't... WOW. Jane Little "Jane at DearAuthor.Com" Dear Jane can't you put a link in your Amazon Profile? If not that might kill one of my bitches right there (more on that in a min). 9 reviews but link to your site so all good. I would say you should put more on amazon if you are gonna do it. But this is a big reason why I go back and forth with doing it myself. And damn it seems long for an amazon review... but hey enough about me. Fair, balanced, what you liked what you didn't... WOW. A. Bosworth I feel like I have looked into your profile before... did you like Highland Fling? Hmmm taking the time to read ALL of your three reviews I see no mention. Go figure but I digress... Stock summary but when a person reviews so many books to because an awesome amazon reviewer that can be forgiven. loonigrrl 52 reviewers... picture loaded back in July... some nifty looking reviews there ::makes note to go checkout:: Nice honest opinon (even worried about being too mean... awww you are a nice girl, really we must stick together). score: three real people with honest opinions... three new accounts, with few reviews, that could be real people So what does this mean beside I want blog addys for loonigrrl and fanthom cuz really one can NEVER have too many reader blogs. Not a damn thing but really I find it rather funny... you know in a highlandflings/wolftales sort of way. Well and I need to figure out if you can put a link in your profile because really I think that would help. I can't help it. I KNOW new readers pop up in blog land. I KNOW new readers pop up on amazon. I know you might read 2000000 then hit that book that makes you stand up and go fuck me I want to tell the world about this without having an adgenda or being the authors BFF. But if it quacks like a sock, walks like a sock, it is almost always a sock.... or you know... a fangrrl.... I am just a cynical bitch like that. Next up: The day in the life of a Fangrrl (I kid)

Color me annoyed

Dear Jane mentioned a article in Publishers Weekly a few days ago. Angie talks more about it on her blog and has a short interview up with one of the authors mentioned Jacquelyn Frank who has a book that just came out called Jacob: The Nightwalkers. from PW Subgenre: Paranormal First printing:250,000 mass market Editor's take: "It's so magical, sexy and intense.... I've never been more enthusiastic about a project." —Kate Duffy I know little about this book. I had never heard of it or the author until the PW article was brought to my attention. I did pick it up at wally world last night and didn't make it past the first two pages. The first page is pretty much author quotes telling me how much I am gonna like this book. Or how blown away they were by it. And honestly it left me with the feeling the only thing blowing was hot air. These are good authors. Authors I read (for the most part). And because I am ever the optimist I am gonna say I believe they mean what they say (vs faves called in, cropped quotes, or whatever). But isn't there a point where too much it too much. A quote from Linda Howard, Lori Foster (oddly missing from the website press page), Kenyon, Feehan, Ross and Cathy Maxwell to me equals too much. Having Kate Duffy saying this is the bestest ever (I think that is promo hype but feel bad for her other authors) is too much on top of all those author quotes. Where the heck are the reviews? Where is the buzz from people who aren't in the business? Or you know... best friends with the author. (note to all newbie authors, tell your friends to not play fangirls [earn your minions!] or at least make sure the three people posting on your message board and blog don't go around defending you or 'getting your back') Sell me a book. Sell me an idea but don't force feed it to me. I don't want it. Tell me I have to love something and I will tell you what I will hate sight unseen. It is a knee jerk reaction I know. But color me annoyed: publishers can't put out a historical because the market is soft, can't take chances, can't buy a book by an author whose last book sold poorly but who has been a proven winner. Can't, can't, can't.... Maybe they can't because they are putting too many eggs in a very breakable basket. Maybe putting out an unknown author, with such grand promo that people who hunt the internet for book info hear about it two weeks before the release date isn't a good idea. Maybe having a message board, blog, website, six book deal with first run at 250,000 mass market is jumping the gun. And to pick a market that is so over run right now... and do 250,000 MM books... seems like a bad idea. Hell I want historicals. I want GOOD historicals and it seems like a shitty idea to have two unknowns come out with a print run of over 100,000k (although I do hope to have my hands on Campbell and McCarthy's books soon). Honestly some of those print run numbers turn my stomach. What is that going to do other than ensure if you want any of them wait a week... it will be in the used book store. Is it good for the author? How can a newbie author with no press or following hit those numbers? Are they being set up to fail? I don't write. I don't have a book to sell. I don't work in publishing. But I am offended and greatly annoyed. Susan Kay Law can't sell a western (after winning a Rita, go team Rita! /endsacrasm). Alexis Harrington has had a book shopping for a while. Marsha Canham chooses to retire vs keep up with the game. Laura Kinsale can't get a deal she wants to take. And I could go one and on... But a newbie can get a 6 book deal and 250,000 MM print run? Or will this prove that if you put enough of anything 'out there' and that anything in large numbers at wally world will end up in the cart of the 'average reader'. I generally ignore cover quotes. Because publishing is a business. But the biggest thing is, just because I may think your book is the shit that doesn't mean I am going to have the same taste as you. Can this be seen as the same thing as Dear Authors 100 bloggers blogging? I admit I am a book pimp. And if I love something I am the first person to talk about it. Repeatedly. I love to have the chance to turn a reader onto a new to them author I love almost as much as I love to find new to me authors. For some reason having those 'readers' all be 'writers' doesn't work for me. Does it work for you? Will you be heading out to wally world to pick this up? Has anyone read this yet? Do you think this is a sign of good things to come? Bad things to come? Or is this normal and I have never noticed before? Is that noise we hear readers rushing to go buy the book or writers rushing to find Cindy Hwang's email addy?

Update as SKL Site: Just Sex

I so don't think this is pointing in the direction of Susan Kay Law's next book being a historical. Who knew you could be disappointed in a book when all you know is the title? Edited to add: Go check this out... So what do you think? Interested?

Panic! At the Disco or book coveting

link if box is missing again You Tube hates me... why? Now we can all have it stuck in our heads *g*. You are most welcome. So what new books are you coveting? The end of November books are out at WallyWorld... Me... I just finished... The School for Heiresses by Sabrina Jeffries, Liz Carlyle, Julia London, Renee Bernard The Stranger I Married by Sylvia Day Books I have bought... The Raven Prince by Elizabeth Hoyt (highly rec) Lord Greville’s Captive by Nicola Cornick (tbr) Her Lone Protector by Pam Crooks (tbr) Currently reading... Unleashed by Rebecca York, Susan Kearney, Lucy Monroe, and Diane Whiteside Bit the Jackpot by Erin McCarthy Beyond a Shadow by Alison Kent I am eyeing... Autumn in Scotland by Karen Ranney The Mad, Bad Duke by Jennifer Ashley The Unexpected Millionaire by Susan Mallery maybe... Love in a Bottle by Zoe Archer Lord of Seduction by Paula Quinn For the Love of a Pirate by Edith Layton (read the first chapter in the store and hated the hero... anyone read this yet?) December... Harmony's Way by Lora Leigh (I won, I won!) The Harem by Celia May Hart, Emma Leigh, Noelle Mack, and Melissa MacNeal And would rec... The School for Heiresses by Sabrina Jeffries, Liz Carlyle, Julia London, Renee Bernard (not for Jane cause she is hating on antho's right now) The Rules of Seduction by Madeline Hunter (not a December but you still should get it if you haven't)

sexing up the cover

The Great Scot was And is now So which cover do you like better? If it helps here is the blurb : Location coordinator Erin McGregor knows she’s finally found the perfect setting for her romance reality show, Your Prince Charming. The Chisholm clan stronghold in the Scottish Highlands has it all—romantic moors, windswept cliffs, misty lochs, a four-hundred-year-old castle, and possibly the most gorgeous man she’s ever laid eyes on in chieftain Dylan Chisholm. Nothing like a guy with a sexy accent and a big…turret to make a girl all wonky-kneed. Right. No time for wonky. Time to get over her fixation with the Hot Scot and get back to business. And Erin will…any minute now… With his three youngest brothers spoken for, Dylan Chisholm is at the top of his village’s matchmaking list. Now they’ve sent some impish, forthright American lass up to tempt him into a devil’s bargain: He can let the Yanks use his castle to film their foolish romance show, and in exchange, he’ll get the money his village desperately needs. It took a tragic loss to get Dylan to embrace his heritage and his duty. He can’t turn away from such a promising offer. But keeping his thoughts off Erin McGregor is another matter. She’s everything he never wanted in a woman, and suddenly, she’s everything he craves in every way possible…

Enslaved by Hope Tarr **June 2007**

Enslaved is the follow up novel to Vanquished and the second book in Hope's "Men of Roxbury House" historical romance trilogy. Daisy Lake is only a memory to successful barrister Gavin Carmichael. But a memory he cannot forget. "Through thick and thin, forever and ever, come what may, we'll stay together…" is the pact the young orphans made over a decade ago, before the wide-eyed little girl was torn from his arms. Only a precious, painful memory … until Gavin walks into an East End supper club where the headlining act is the infamous nightingale of the Montmartre music halls, Delilah du Lac. Overcome, Gavin storms on stage and carries her off, determined to save her from the lifestyle she has apparently embraced. But Daisy wants no part of him. She has only one desire: to act on a proper London stage. It is a dream Gavin can make come true. He promises to employ every resource at his disposal to see she gets a part in the upcoming run of Shakespeare's "As You Like It" … provided she agrees to live with him for one month. Daisy has slept with men for far less. And Gavin has matured into an exceedingly handsome man. But as their sensual games increase in intensity, Gavin is the one in danger of being … ENSLAVED

Edge of Midnight by Shannon McKenna **Aug 2007**

Shannon McKenna guest blogged on Dishing with the Divas and had this to say about her next book, Edge of Midnight: Shannon: I can’t say too much about the new book, because I’m still working on it, and I’m sort of superstitious about that. What I can say, is that it’s Sean McCloud’s story, it’s entitled EDGE OF MIDNIGHT, and it’s pub date is August of 2007. I’m sorry to make Sean fans wait! And thanks to all of your for your interest! It’s been a pleasure to rattle on about myself. yeah it doesn't say much than her site which as always needs to be updated... but hey it makes me happy

Never Lie To A Lady by Liz Carlyle ** June 2007 **

I read The School for Heiresses the other day. And I have to say I REALLY want Never Lie To A Lady by Liz Carlyle. Of course it comes out in June 2007. le sigh... but loved After Midnight ( in TSfH), her story that kicks off the series. I was hoping Rothwell's story would be first but (if amazon is correct) Never Deceive a Duke comes out in July. New York Times bestselling author Liz Carlyle opens her exciting new historical trilogy by plunging readers into the steamy underworld of 19th century London and the swirling glitter of English high society. Meet Stefan... The notorious Marquis of Nash is a creature of the night; his wealth and his title provide but a tenuous entrée into polite society. With his Eastern European manners and dark elegance, Nash tempts women even as he tempts the scandalmongers. Rumors abound of the men he has bankrupted and the hearts he has broken. But when Nash leaves his lair for a rare foray into the ton, and enjoys a moment of heated passion with a mysterious lady in the dark, he develops an obsession which will lead him into the hellish world of smugglers, spies, and political intrigue as the Continent edges nearer to war. and Xanthia ... Xanthia Neville has arrived in London to expand her family’s most lucrative business holding—Neville Shipping. With her brother Rothewell all too happy to waste his life in debauchery, Xanthia opens up shop in London’s grimy Docklands, and sets about expanding the family fortune, all the while flaunting the ton’s silly strictures about how a lady ought to behave. But London, she soon learns, is not Barbados. And when the British Government approaches Rothewell to ask the family’s help in exposing a dangerous arms dealer, Xanthia must enter society after all, only to find her loyalties torn. Someone in London is fueling the conflict on the Balkan Peninsula by smuggling illicit weapons into the Aegean—and there is only one likely suspect. The Marquis of Nash has the resources, the contacts and, quite possibly, the deeply divided loyalties. But can Xanthia’s subterfuge prove him a traitor to the Crown before her heart is broken?

I still don't get it

I looks like Wicked Pleasure by Nina Bangs now has a Feb 2007 release date. And there are two new covers that I can find on the net but all seem to have the same cover quotes as the one that was pulled in July. Amazon has this one Books a Million has this one Personally I don't care for any of them but none seem worth the cost of pulling a book... anyone hear anything else about this?

gakked from marg, who gakked from dylan who...

What Kind of Reader Are You? Your Result: Dedicated Reader You are always trying to find the time to get back to your book. You are convinced that the world would be a much better place if only everyone read more. Obsessive-Compulsive Bookworm Literate Good Citizen Book Snob Fad Reader Non-Reader What Kind of Reader Are You? Create Your Own Quiz I am soooo much higher on the OC scale but whatever ;)

Can old news be the sign of new things?

From the RT newsletter: And speaking of historicals... we predict that a comeback is on the horizon. With authors like Karen Robards, Judith McNaught and now Julie Garwood returning to the much-beloved genre, it won't be long before all publishers will jump on the bandwagon to cash in on this returning trend. Add to that the recent news that suspense authors Tess Gerritsen and (of all people) Dennis Lehane will have historicals out in the next two years and you can see the trend is already in motion. If you're an author, dust off those historicals and get them ready for submission and if you're a fan of historicals, rejoice in the knowledge that authors and/or publishers have heard your pleas! Let's hope the new historicals live up to what fans want: lush, historically accurate detail, strong, independent heroines, heroes to die for, palpable sexual tension with tender sensuality and books overflowing with old-fashioned romance! FYI: Keep in mind that when these historicals hit stores it will be up to you (and your buying power) to determine how long the trend lasts. That means you MUST show your support for historicals by purchasing them new and not buying them on sites like half.com or used. "New" book sales is the only measure publishers use to determine if they will continue to publish more historicals. Create the demand and they will supply the product. It may be winter but we have sprung ahead with a sneak preview of some blockbuster books to anticipate this spring including ones from Lisa Kleypas, Karen Robards, Gaelen Foley, Kelly Armstrong and Brenda Joyce to name a few. I could be way wrong but didn't Karen Robards new historical (the wrap up to her long ago started trilogy which is currently on hold with no publishing date) get announced in the RT last year? As well as the HUGE news that Garwood would be returning to historicals (although maybe that was an AAR interview?). But Judith McNaught I didn't know about and I am way interested in the Lehane although I doubt it is a romance. LOL unless he is gonna give sparks a run for his money and really Lehane could so kick Sparks ass. Sez I. So what do you guys think? Is the historical the new black for 2007? Or still the same shade of gray it has been for the last few years?

Is it wrong of me...

To be soooooo excited that I am gonna get this soon? le sigh and me without my sqqqeee button The wait... it kills... slowly....

Holiday... Celebrate...

Got anything planned to for the holidays? yeah yeah yeah I know family and food and stuff... But what cha gonna read? Me? I am not sure yet since I will have to be at the 'rents for a day or so. So I need to plan ahead so I can take them with me. I do know for sure I will be reading Lessons in Love since it landed in my mail box yesterday! YAY! And something else is there... waiting... captive in the office... I have hope to finish two others I was lucky enough to get early but are on the computer. Really need to get an ereader for Christmas or something. Anywho, what about you? Who in the hell is buying all of those reissued holiday antho's they reprint each year? I mean they are all over the place! And oy, they had a butt load of reissued Harl. Why? They aren't the hard to find ones! They are the ones that cover five shelves in the ubs. Why! They should ask us what we want reissued. oooooohhhhhh there is a question for you... if you could have ANY book reissued for your Christmas present what would it be? And why? Is it because you want to read it and can't find it? Love it so much want others to be able to read it? Or yours is falling apart and you need a new one for under the discount used price of $100 on Ebay *g*.

Review: The Rules of Seduction by Madeline Hunter

Genre: Historical Romance Grade: A- Alexia Welbourne is a poor relation of The Longworth family. Unknown to any of them, except Timothy (head of the family), they are all living on borrowed time. By chance Hayden Rothwell enters the picture and the clock stops. Timmy has been a bad, bad boy but due to a debt Hayden allows him to try to keep his honor and save face - at least with his family. Timmy's bright idea is to blame his 'ruin' on Hayden. This comes to light in one of the first scenes as Alexia gives Hayden a tour of her soon to be old home. These are two great characters and the dialogue is wonderful. They are both adults and they behave that way. Alexia is scared and unsure of her next steps but she doesn't fall apart and wait for someone to fix it for her. Hayden Rothwell reminds me of David de Abyndon from By Arrangement. They are both basically good men who have done some bad things. They find themselves in situations not of their own making and try to fix them best way they can. And they both keep a stupid secret from their wives for too long. They do end up with their wives differently and I admit I found Hayden and Alexia's first 'love' scene together jarring. I expected it to go differently. I didn't really think he would go through with it. The Rules of Seduction is a perfect example of how to use sex and love scenes to add to the characters, their relationship and move the story along. So much happens from that dirty attic floor to the last page. The plot is tried and true but with enough of Hunter's plotting and wonderful characters to make it interesting, entertaining and different. If you have marked Madeline Hunter off your to buy list or haven't tried her in a while give this one a shot. The Rules of Seduction is a really great read and from the sneak peak for The Lessons of Desire this is a series to watch.

Dear Self: The Texas Ranger

Dear Self, You have read The Texas Ranger. You did not like The Texas Ranger. In fact you didn't even blog about this book because no one had annoyed you enough that week to make them read about your dislike of this book. For the love of all that is holy - stop buying this fucking book. Otherwise you will be forced to keep said book because somewhere deep inside you must really love a book you rebuy four times. And there will be an essay required regarding surgical proceedures needed to remove a hyman. Love, Me p.s. really might want to rethink the buying diana palmer thing...

okay.... this completely pisses me off

The pitfalls of receiving free books... Simon & Schuster is so not sending me free books! That is sooooooo rude! hmph and double hmph... I am the first person to say I love free books. Most of all I love free EARLY books. They make me happy, very very happy. I even will sqqquuueee! (well not for inspirations) But it doesn't mean I will like the book. I go with a few very simple ideas. Good or bad a review is a great thing, having your book mentioned is a good thing, a link to a book is a good thing. Because everyone likes different things and what I hate, someone might read and go omg I love that plot. So I tend to agree with Miss Snark (anyone even find out if she is really an agent?) that the idea of all free books will get GOOD reviews isn't true. But I could be wrong... As for publishers only sending books to people who give glowing reviews, I tend to disagree but hey we will see if my next batch of Avon Red shows up or not.

That is cool

It would be cooler I am sure if I knew what the 'keynote' speaker did. But hey it sounds like a great honor so good for Lisa Kleypas!

Should it make me smile so every time I see one of these?

ok I have to be ahead now... right? another DiW review can I get a WoOT!

Review: Sugar and Spice by Leda Swann

Leda Swann was one of the authors who joined us for Avon Red Week. I completely fell in love with the cover for Sugar and Spice. Sadly this turned out to be one of those times where the cover was the best part. Genre: Erotic Romance (I think... could be Erotica) Grade: D- Sensuality: Burning Jane Meter: SKIP This an ever popular anthology, although it is a single title. It has an interesting set up and is somewhat different. Each of the stories involve an already married couple struggling to find their HEA. They all end up at a 'naughty house' in Cornwall that caters to married couples and is ran by a Mrs. Bertram. Click for rest of review Our first couple - Gwendolyn and Adam are unhappily married but have great sex. Just about every night, or at least Adam is having great sex, Gwendolyn thinks she is just a convenient fuck. She lied and 'forced' him to marry her and Adam is holding something of a grudge. Hard to have a happy marriage with the groom thinking the bride is a lying, manipulative bitch. I loved the set up and the first scene with the Turkish slave girl setup is great. Adam is very much the man as he lays there thinking a hand job isn't 'really cheating' until it dawns on him if he is there... where is his wife. The two play out a list of fantasy and find their way to sharing their true feelings. The stories biggest downside is it is too long and the very played out ending. Obsessed gets a C. Lillian and Felix have a very Mary Balogh tradition regency plot. They got married. A few months later he gets bored thinking his wife is cold and doesn't want him. Felix starts to fuck around and Lillian tries her best to ignore it. After Felix takes off to Mrs. Bertram's with his newest 'soon to be mistress', Lillian is blackmailed by the Mr. of 'soon to be mistress'. After a chorus of 'Hail, Hail the Gangs All Here' there is a great scene where Lillian give Felix a piece of her mind. And after he figures out how badly he screwed up with his virgin bride - SIX YEARS ago - Felix does the only thing any good regency hero would do. He decided it is a good time to teach his wife to blow him and stick his fingers up her ass. I was never able to get over the thought that she would have been better off leaving with Gareth. Enslaved gets a F. Speaking of Gareth the hero of the last story and over all good guy. I liked him except for he spends most of the story being a doormat for Cora. In case you forgot, Cora was the woman who went off for a week with Felix. She is... hell really I am not sure what Cora is suppose to be. At one point she is mad because he married her to have door opened for him in socially At another point she is mad because she married him because he is in trade, so she figured she would never care for him but does. At another point it seems she thinks she can never make him happy and has a secret that would hurt him. Or some such thing, really by this point I just wanted the book over. I guessed the end pretty early then decided I was wrong (turns out I wasn't). I think Exposed is the shortest of the three and the most sexually adventurous. They confront the big bad thing, learn they can deal with it together and Cora figures out Gareth will stick by her no matter what. Exposed gets a D. I think the biggest disappointment I had with Sugar and Spice is it could have been so much better. It had a different plot than you normally get in today's historicals and I was willing to go along for the ride when I normally run from anything that deal with adultery. Maybe that is why I got hung up on Felix's character and his actions. He has this big 'ah ha' moment and handles it so stupidly. I would have just closed the book and walked away, if I was the type to not finish books. And Cora was such a horrible character. I understand we are suppose to excuse her actions because of her big bad secret but Gareth was just too good. So over all the first story was the only I could say I liked and really not that much. Anyone else read this yet? Like it? Have any other thoughts on Sugar and Spice? Next: The Price of Desire is the next book by Leda Swann. I still have no clue what this is about other than it has something to do with a workhouse. Currently I am reading Pleasure Control by Cathryn Fox and liking it. Have you tried an Avon Red yet?

Am I the only one who thinks this blows?

I admit I have a hard time remembering titles but good night, just about every title Charlotte Boyett-Compo has uses the word wind. Her website url is even Windledgends. I am guessing this is an attempt at branding but it is so not working for me. How about you guys? Are you able to keep her stories straight? How do you remember what you have read and what you haven't? But most important... is she any good and what would you recommend reading?

Whatever you are looking for....

As a rule I try to never trash a book or a person. It generally isn't my style. I rant. I rave. I have strong opinions and I think many actions of many people are stupid. But thinking the actions of a person aren't the brightest thing, disagreeing with them or not liking their book is a far cry from trashing, bashing, harassing or whatever. Oh course I have my moments... I can be a bitch. And most of the time I am very unapologetic about it. Although I am happy to admit when I am wrong. I dislike many people and many more dislike me. I dislike many a book and there are many more I like. I tend to think of myself as one of those people who is killing romance as you want it (or at least kristie, jane, keishon and the like). I am happy with the majority of what I am reading. In fact there are many I love and quite a few I know I shouldn't. But what the fuck, I am cool with that and if you are still here I would assume you are too. Because no matter what I love or hate - I don't expect you to have the same opinion nor would I ever, ever expect a anyone (friend or not) to only agree with me. Yesterday I had someone I greatly respect tell me that my blog strikes a good balance. And that is what I aim for... I want authors to feel comfortable to post. I want readers to feel comfortable to post. And most of all I never want anyone to feel that they have to agree with me. And I had another I greatly respect pretty much tell me I am unethical or at least I think that was her point. After a great many emails, some thought and a few more emails from a many people I have come to the conclusion that: Fair Use is your friend. Anyone who criticizes people, their work, their actions or whatever the hell should be able to except criticism... aka if you can't take the heat isn't just advice for authors. People who tell others to 'behave like a grown up' should take their own advice. Anything I post in a public place has a chance of being quoted elsewhere on the internet. If someone disagrees with my opinion, they can still be my friend. If you don't want people discussing what you say or what you write - don't put it on the internet and don't publish it. but most of all... NOTHING ON THE INTERNET DIES! If you disagree with any of the above, do feel free to post and give your opinion. I am always open to listening to different views. And have even been known to change my mind and agree. But may I suggest if any of the above bothers you to the point that you are close to cracking, losing your hold on reality or if you don't understand that YOU are the only person responsible for YOUR actions...well then you should just... until you tube comes back up... Music Video:DON'T COME AROUND HERE NO MORE (by Tom Petty) Music Video Code provided by Video Code Zone Don'T Come Around Here No More video by Tom Petty And words Don't come around here no more Don't come around here no more Don't come around here no more Whatever you're looking for Hey! Don't come around here no more I've given up. I've given up- I've given up on waiting any longer I've given up, on this love getting stronger I don't feel you anymore You darken my door Whatever you're looking for Hey, don't come around here no more I've given up. I've given up I've given up, you tangle my emotions I've given up, honey please admit it's over Don't come around here no more Don't come around here no more Whatever you're looking for Hey, don't come around here no more Stop walking down my street Who do you expect to meet? Whatever you're looking for Hey, don't come around here no more

something to ponder...

FAIR USE Section 107 contains a list of the various purposes for which the reproduction of a particular work may be considered “fair,” such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. The ever clever smart bitches have a grand post about fair use with a link you should so check out. Or you can just go for the text version here. Bookmark 'em... one never knows when they might come in handy.

Hey at least it is a different time...

Susan Krinard has a new paranormal series coming out.... yes shocking isn't it She sez on her site: I have turned in the manuscript of Chasing Midnight, my first Werewolf/Vampire novel. Set in 1926's New York City, it will published by HQN in late 2007. The book will be given its own sub-page on my site a few months from now.

Always. Buy. The. Book.

I can't find Tangled by Mary Balogh! This irks me greatly. I know I had the damn thing in my hand. And now am wondering if I had an attack of guilt and didn't buy it because I have sooooo many book. blah blah blah Had no want to read it. Wouldn't have gotten to it at the time. blah blah blah Damn it to hell, let this teach me a leason to always BUY THE BOOK! But I really think I did because I always buy her old books when I find them. I have been eyeing a stack of books in my bedroom. But it are three stacks of at least 25. So going through them would take forever because it isn't like I just go - nope and go to the next one. Then there is another stack of about 60. It could be in either of those. I have to go close a bank account tomorrow. There isn't much in there. I am seriously thinking I need to spend it all on postage and get rid of some of these sacks. I have to move in January you know... of course either way I am gonna call The Great Exchange on Monday and see if they still have it. yeah yeah I am sure if I was dumb enough to leave it there it is gone but one never knows.

Shamelessly Reckless

Do you remember Shameless by Karen Robards? If you don't it might be because it was first called Reckless... or at least that is how I recall reading about it in the Romantic Times. This is the long awaited finish to the Banning sisters trilogy. And it is... drum roll... historical! not romantic suspense. And it was set for release in April of 2006. And yes it hasn't been released. Sadly as of right now it has no release date other than a vague sometime in 2007. Tanzey reports: After last month's "Tanzey Talk" was posted and distributed, I got an e-mail from Karen Robards concerning her Regency romance, SHAMELESS, that I told you would be released the end of December 2006. Karen had this to say, "Unfortunately, SHAMELESS has been postponed until later in 2007 -- no exact date has been chosen yet. The fault is mine -- I haven't yet finished the book. I had to take a break to write OBSESSION, my latest romantic suspense, which will be out in hardcover in April 2007." As soon as Karen lets me know when it's on the schedule, I'll pass the word along to you. Other news I think sucks... well it would suck if I read her but since I don't I just find it annoying... looks like Christina Dodd will be the newest historical writer to 'take a break from historicals' to write paranormals. Tanzey said: After hearing that Christina Dodd was writing a paranormal series, in addition to her other books, I contacted her for the scoop. Here's what she told me, "I'm writing four books a year, which is ridiculous, but I wanted to write a paranormal series and the only way I could figure out to do it in a decent time was to take a break from the historicals and add an extra book. The first two books are scheduled for July and August 2007." She's just finished the first one, and claims she's having way too much fun writing them. "Mine are very hot, fun romances set in the modern world, except the heroes have a tendency to shapeshift. Because of a deal with the devil. And they, unfortunately, are the ones chosen to break it." It's a four-book series dubbed Darkness Chosen, and the first title is SCENT OF DARKNESS. Maybe I am the only one who hadn't heard this already. Maybe it is something in the water over at SquawkRadio. EEK! We need to get Lisa Kleypas out of there if it is!

Something new from Dorchester

Sign up for our free Sexy Snippets newsletter, featuring sexy snippets from some of our hottest romances! The Sexy Snippets newsletter will be e-mailed to you once a month, and will contain at least three Snippets -- all rated by sensuality and designed to please. This is a totally free newsletter, and should you choose to sign up, your information will not be shared with any third parties. What do you think? Good idea? Bad idea? I am signing up. Of course I am hoping there will be a western in there somewhere so... Click the picture to be taken to the site.

Slake... editoral link

from Laurie's Likes and Views #77: More on Mother's Milk: I know that the publisher at Slake did an editorial about breast-feeding in romances some time ago, but in light of that Beverly Barton book, I'd like to re-open it up for discussion Slake editorial by Suzanne Goodwin for odd people like me who care about things like this... I found this posted as 12/5/1998 but have no clue when it was first posted on slake nothing on the net dies looks like Slake use to be more than it is today... nifty Cream, Sugar or Milk

cream, sugar or milk...

A small part of Jane's response in If You Can't Take the Heat, mentioned Passions Breastfeeding sex bit: Further for Ms. V to write that she didn't expect this type of response also seems a bit ridiculous. Her book was filled with extreme and provocative sex scenes (sex while breastfeeding?). Of course, there was going to be negative responses. I suspect Jaid Black get hate mail constantly for corrupting the morals of the world. off of that Lisa Valdez asked: Okay, and will someone please tell me what the big deal is with sex while breastfeeding? Why is that so shocking? Sex made the baby, and it’s not as if the baby knows what’s going on. I think it’s weird that people think it’s weird. Sorry, that’s off topic. Forget I asked. more, more, more **now updated with list and links** Now this is a topic I find mucho amusing, more because of a chat than about the book itself. The scene in question takes place at the very end of the book. And I will have to go find mine to be sure but I think it is all of a paragraph. But it totally squicks some people out. Does it squick you? Did you make note of it while reading? A few months back (I think) while searching for something on AAR I came across something talking about sex while breast feeding (is this one word or two?). It was Laurie's News and Views #77 from August 1, 1999 (I soooooo love the old Laurie's News and Views much more than I like the ATBF of today. Is that just me?). I expected it to be about Passion (no I didn't note the date at the time *g*). But it wasn't... there were OTHER books where this happens. The old list that the AARList members put together had these titles: * Broomstick Cowboy by Kathleen Eagle 11/93 * Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon * Heaven Above by Sara Jarrod 9/96 * Caroline & the Raider by Linda Lael Miller 3/92 * Skye O'Malley by Bertrice Small * Sunset Embrace by Sandra Brown * Hawk O'Toole's Hostage by Sandra Brown * The Shattered Rose by Jo Beverley * Silver Flame buy Susan Johnson * Night in Eden by Candice Proctor * Between Friends by Candace Spencer * Tender Trap by Beverly Barton 1/97 * Tangled by Mary Balogh 3/94 I have never read Kathleen Eagle, Diana Gabaldon, Jo Beverley or Candace Spencer. The Sara Jarrod book I have read in its redone form as an EC novel (more on that later). The Sandra Brown book I think is the one I am scared to read. And I haven't read Hawk O'Toole's Hostage (although I think I dhave it). Silver Flame and Night in Eden I have read but breastfeeding sex doesn't ring a bell at all. Maybe I didn't even notice? And I have Tangled but don't think I have read it. Any others that anyone can think of? Have you read any of these books? Did you find them squicky? Do you even remember there being breastfeeding sex? Would this make you put the book down and walk away? Would you just skip over the scene? Or would you not even notice it? Just a Little Patience If You Can't Take the Heat

It's a Wonderfully Sexy Life and Sierra's Homecoming

If I recall correctly, quite a few people were very happy with Hope Tarr's last book. I forget the title but it was a historical! Next up for her is a Blaze... It's a Wonderfully Sexy Life Baltimore street cop Mandy Delinski isn't expecting any miracles this Christmas. She's thirty, a little too round, still very single and she lives with her parents. So who could have guessed that her whole life would change before New Year's Eve? That a simple job policing a Christmas party would find her in the arms of sexy-as-sin bartender Josh Thornton? That they would be on the brink of making love before the night ended? That Mandy would find her perfect man in the morgue the next day? Or that she'd be given a magical chance to go back a week, save Josh…and have the best sex of her life. Does Christmas get any better than this? You can't find it on the shelves yet but it is on the Harlequin site. The book is $3.80 and if you can find 5 books you want on this page you get one of them free. My problem is I can never find five books on THAT page to order. The only other book *I* want is: Sierra's Homecoming by Linda Lael Miller When she moved to her family's ancestral ranch, single mom Sierra McKettrick was disconcerted by the Triple M's handsome caretaker, Travis Reid. But when her son claimed to see a mysterious boy in the house, and an heirloom teapot started popping up in unexpected places, Sierra wondered if the attraction between herself and Travis might be the least of her worries. In 1919, widowed Hannah McKettrick lived at the ranch with her son and her brother-in-law, Doss. Her confused feelings for Doss and her son's health problems occupied all her thoughts…until the family teapot started disappearing. Could Sierra and her ancestor, Hannah, be living parallel lives? The book is $3.99 and again... if you can find 5 books you want on this page you get one of them free. Good Luck!

Chatty Cathy

I have had the pleasure of chatting with some of the most amazing people in romanceland. There was once a time, prolly about six months to a year ago, when you could find a group of us online most nights. Sometimes it would be three peeps, sometimes 20. But is was always fun, crazy, confusing and wonderful. And you couldn't help but fall a lil bit in love with these wonderful, amazing, smart, caring people. They live all over the world, come from all types of backgrounds, and if you are lucky enough you get to call them friends. Thank you for the laughter, fun, support, joy, discussion, and interests you have all brought into my life. The sleep lost was never missed *g*. And on that note... for anyone who doesn't know this yet... THE maili is back.

Food for thought...

Have anything to add? Any other authors... newbies or the oldies have have letters of your own?

If you can't take the heat...

My take on Passion was a largely favorable one. I liked it. With each reread, I liked it more. But one thing I noticed she seemed to get too involved with the discussions on message boards. As a reader I like talking about books with the authors. Yes shocking I know *g*. But there gets to be that point where you agree to disagree because you are repeating yourself. I think this is a common first time author mistake. You want to talk about your baby. You want people to love your baby. You want people to read your baby! But it is murky water. How much is too much. Where is it okay to post? What will increase conversation? What will be a thread killer? And I think you learn as you go. Yes there are authors... many many authors who will give you advice. Listen to you bitch. Dry your tears. And help you call those reviewers bitches! But much like your mother telling you to do things... you still have to learn on your own. Which is what *I* think happened with Lisa Valdez and her experience with Message Boards. (please correct me if I am wrong lisa) Message boards and reviews are what they are, reader opinion. They are not for the weak. Some are great, some are grand, some are wonderful and some will tell you sucks serious ass (or even great big hairy donkey balls). So in that case... I would have to say I agree with Sandy (a reviewer with AAR) in her post Is she a grown-up or not? I personally thought that she spent a bit too much time feelin' and basking in the love here. I guess she also felt the sting. Well I would agree if that was what I thought Lisa Valdez's point was in her post. I took it like Meljean did: she was simply responding to her readers, who were wondering why the book was late, and responding in an honest (and I imagine somewhat embarrassing) manner. How mortifying is it to acknowledge that you let others opinions come between you and your work? There was no complaint. She said: this was my reaction, and I've learned from it -- and my book is late, yes, but I've moved on. So putting reviews and message boards aside and focusing on 'Hate Mail' I can understand why Lisa had some problems with it. Why would a person feel the need to write an author and tell them how horrid, bad, filthy, wrong, fucked up, name your shit here - their book is? That seems some what stalkerish. Reviews are for readers. Blogs and message boards are for discussion. And if an author ASKS you... what did you think. Well email the hell out of them. But what drives someone to email some stranger and tell them they are fucked? And what makes it okay? Just because as sandy sez: I'm sorry that you think I'm being harsh. I think I'm just expecting Ms. Valdez to be a professional. Hate mail is a bitch. But complain to your writer's loops -- Ms. Valdez was hardly blazing a trail here, they've all gotten hate mail before. Complain to your editor and your agent. They're there to support you. Clearly, Kristie J, her explanation was enough for you. But while I wouldn't call you a patsy for your position, you seem to have no problem calling my earlier post superior. And, honestly, that's kind of insulting. But I'm a big girl. I'll smile and suck it up and move on. I respect you and have always respected you, Krisitie (SIC) J, but I think we'll have to agree to disagree here. It happens to everyone so authors should just get over it? How do authors feel about it? Is it really something that common? How do you deal with it? Will anyone else admit to it *g*. What makes an email turn from Feedback to Hate Mail? And anyone who has ever sent negative feedback to an author they didn't know, what made you do it? What caused that reaction? And hey if nothing else... if a person hates a book enough to feel the need to email, couldn't you say you still did a good job as a writer? At the heart of it. Like it or not, there is no right or wrong answer as far as Lisa Valdez's post goes. It is how she felt. It is what she did to take care of what she saw as a problem. And I for one appreciate an author being honest. No matter if I agree or no. Maybe that is just me... And this is always fun: You ARE what you WRITE

You ARE what you WRITE

I have talked about this before so I won't even get into how silly I think it is to assume an authors values, morals or world views based on the fictional characters she/he creates. Since an author is one person it seems all they would be able to write is one character. Does it happen? Sure! Can you assume an author is pro life because her character is? I just can't buy that. Do true crime authors have bodies buried in their backyard? What about that happily married author, who has slept with one man, her husband of 30 years who is over there writing threesome stories? Explain her! (I am really not referring to any one author I just pulled that out of my ass but feel free to say if that is you *g*) oops I just said I wasn't going to go there... but hey feel free to weigh in if you agree or not with LyndaX: As for assuming that an author's personality and values are reflected by her work, that seems fair to me too. If I read an author who shows cruelty to animals as funny, I do make valid--IMO--assumptions about her. Is it fair to assume that an author who writes sexually explicit material is promiscuous? No. But it is fair to assume that she is in favor of sexual freedom. Whether an author means to or not, her book conveys her values, and I think those values are a fair target. If all the black characters in a book are shown to be lazy, dishonest, and stupid, then I think it's fair game to criticize the author, sometimes in a way that she might describe as vicious. Books elicit strong responses. I would LOVE examples of books, plots, characters you have written that don't reflect you at all, as well as the ones that might. Or tell me I am wrong and that every book you write reflects who you are and your values. I am always open to learning I am wrong. Come on you know you wanna play! (I don't like to quote from other places, meaning the open, public, anyone can access online blogs and message boards. Since AAR doesn't archive all their boards and I keep running into dead links I am quoting [but only the public boards].)

Why would one want to use this?

Write to my Blog Does anyone use this or something like it... if so do you like it? This seems useful, realtime HTML editor. CindyS I am still not certain what you are asking but I will take a guess and make a post in a bit. Off to work now but didn't want you to think I was ignoring you. Thankee

Guest Wench

The Word Wenches have an interview up with Laura Resnick aka writer of Fallen From Grace. Go check it out!

What Regency Readers Want

posted at AAR on one of their message boards by author Julia Justiss ... Recently I've heard (Sue Grimshaw, the romance book buyer for Borders Group just mentioned this in a talk) that tho readers still love the Regency, they are bored with "traditional" genre themes and treatments... Gee ya think? That Sue is quick. I want her job! I would rock at her job! hee Full post here

Just a little Patience

From Rod Stewart to Guns and Roses... earworms for everyone! hee sorry- syb After gentle nudging *g* Lisa Valdez has been kind enough to answer my question... where the heck is patience and what is taking so long! From Lisa... Hi Everyone, Sybil was kind enough to invite me to her blog so that I could have the opportunity to explain what the heck my problem has been with completing PATIENCE. Thank you, Syb, for this opportunity. So, here’s the deal: This past year has been really challenging for me. Besides some very heavy intrusions by life, the biggest problem I had with writing PATIENCE was that I was writing it while dealing with the unexpectedly strong response to PASSION. As many of you may know, readers were very vocal about PASSION and they basically fell into two camps—those who adored it and those who despised it. There was very little in-between. And while many of the discussion boards were taken up with long threads about PASSION, my email was also overflowing. Most of the email was wonderful, and some of you made me cry (((hugs))), but there was also “hate mail,” which I could never identify until I’d started reading—and like the compulsion I often feel to watch a bad movie till the end, I had to read those emails to the end. I know, so stupid! Anyway, the force of these two opposing opinions came down on me together and, suddenly, writing got really difficult. All at once, I felt a HUGE responsibility to all of you who had loved and adored PASSION. While I was so grateful that PASSION had fallen into your hands, I began to worry that you wouldn’t like Patience and Matthew’s story. I mean, they are very different characters from Passion and Mark, and the sensual angle is different as well. Perhaps, thought I, you just want another PASSION. And while I was tormenting myself with these thoughts, I did a completely ludicrous thing. I allowed the voices of my detractors to influence me as well. Lord, I kept thinking: if they hated PASSION, they’re going to stone me in the streets for PATIENCE. I started holding the characters back—I wouldn’t let them do what they wanted to do, or even think what they wanted to think. And when I did give them some leeway, I did so only with the greatest trepidation. But I don’t want to give the impression that I am this over-sensitive, delicate type, with fragile confidence and flimsy sensibilities. I assure you, that’s not me. It went more like this: I wake up excited to write this scene in which Matthew gives Patience this intense spanking that breaks down all her emotional barriers. But, as is my habit, I check my email before I begin to write. Well, there in my inbox is an email from a very angry reader. She calls me a misogynist and rants that I have no business writing romance for women as I so obviously hate women. She goes on to say that Mark is an “abusive rapist,” (I didn’t know there was any other kind) and that Matthew is equally as bad as he “beats” his mother. She ends her email by calling me a “disgrace to modern women.” –Okay, so suffice it to say, I did not write the spanking scene that day. Nor did I write it for many days after. Then, after more garbage came my way, I opted not to write it at all—even though it was a major turning point in the story. And that’s how it went. Well, you absolutely CANNOT write a book while afraid of it (especially a book like PATIENCE). You cannot! The manuscript was tepid, and half-hearted. And because I had left things out that I had suddenly feared readers would find too intense, Patience couldn’t even really arc as a character. I had completely robbed her of what she needed. And poor Matthew—I had cut him off at the knees as well. Anyway, slowly but surely, I began to face the fact that I had completely lost my way. There were many months of denial before I was able to finally face the truth—that I’d allowed some very sad, unfortunate people to crush me. This was a rather disturbing and painful realization. I mean, how could I have let that happen? But I also got angry about it and, finally, I had this “what-the-heck?/what-is-your-problem?” moment. And in that moment (or two), I got so fed up with myself and the whole situation that I knew I was done. And within a week or two, I felt like myself again—thank you, Jesus! So, having said all this, I apologize to all of you who loved PASSION and were generous enough to take time out of your busy lives to tell me so. I ought to have given you more of my trust. I ought to have trusted, as I did with PASSION, that if I loved these characters enough then many of you would too. And most of all, I ought not to have dishonored all of you, and myself, by allowing people who hate what I do to influence what I do. So, there you have it—the cliff notes to a very long and surprisingly intense personal struggle. I hope you’ll all hang in there for Matthew and Patience’s romance. I know I’ve tried your patience at this point, but I also know that the book coming out in May is far more passionate and honest than the one you would have purchased earlier. Thanks so much for listening. And thank you, Syb, for offering me the welcoming forum of your blog. Ciao, Lisa —Oh, and the spanking scenes are back! Yeah, there are more than one…

Running out of patience...

Look for a posting coming soon... like today (prolly around lunch time) from Lisa Valdez Until then... here is some rod for you cuz I lurve you all so *g* Somebody somewhere In the heat of the night Looking pretty dangerous Running out of patience Tonight in the city You wont find any pity Hearts are being twisted Another lover cheated, cheated In the bars and the cafes, passion In the streets and the alleys, passion A lot of pretending, passion Everybody searching, passion Once in love youre never out of danger One hot night spent with a stranger All you wanted was somebody to hold on to yeah Passion, passion Passion, passion New york, moscow, passion Hong kong, tokyo, passion Paris and bangkok, passion A lotta people aint got, passion Hear it in the radio, passion Read it in the papers, passion Hear it in the churches, passion See it in the school yards, passion Once in love youre never out of danger One hot night spent with a stranger All you wanted was somebody to hold on to yeah Once in love youre never out of danger One hot night spent with a stranger All you wanted was somebody to hold on to yeah Alone in your bed at night, passion Its half past midnight, passion As you turn out your sidelight, passion Something aint right, passion Theres no passion, theres no passion Theres no passion, I need passion You need passion, we need passion Cant live without passion Wont live without passion Even the president needs passion Everybody I know needs some passion Some people die and kill for passion Nobody admits they need passion Some people are scared of passion Yeah passion

nothing like

coming home and having your cable, internet and phone turned off because your bank which screwed up your account TWO months before STILL hasn't managed to get it fixed... oh and returned money to the wrong account THEN charged you more fees for returning the check (3 times) This after having been in the bank, in person, to fill out forms (twice) which they lost (twice) to correct the mistake THEY FUCKING MADE. And not being able to use the debit card to your new account because it has to be activated using your home phone, which is currently not working! oy I think I may have gone through withdrawal. Lucky for all involved the money is back. Account to be CLOSED. And the internet working again - today. Security Services SUCKS. Stay far far far away.

Damn it!

Why aren't all the book covers showing!!!!!!

New Books! take II

Unleashed by Rebecca York, Susan Kearney, Diane Whiteside, Lucy Monroe What happens when a woman explores her most forbidden fantasies? When the intoxicating scent of man triggers illicit desire? When passion for the unusual lures lovers into worlds reserved only for the uninhibited... National bestselling author Rebecca York is Unleashed...As she finds the psychic bond between two lovers on a doomed island paradise. National bestselling author Susan Kearney is Unleashed... As she explores the mystery of Atlantis in a bold and contemporary new way. National bestselling author Diane Whiteside is Unleashed...As she bears witness to a tale of vampire love with a wicked twist National bestselling author Lucy Monroe is Unleashed...As she explores the limits of animal desire in a seductive story of the beast within. Tempting Juliana by Lauren Royal It's a good thing Juliana Chase takes such pleasure in playing matchmaker, because there's nothing she wants more than to see her loved ones happy. Her latest pairing involves Dr. James Trevor, Earl of Stafford, and her friend, Amanda. So why does the handsome physician insist on ignoring her good intentions-and shaking up her sensible plans? The Rules of Seduction by Madeline Hunter Dangerous. Sensual. Handsome as sin. Meet Hayden Rothwell, the shamelessly erotic hero of The Rules of Seduction and author Madeline Hunter’s most irresistible alpha male yet: a man of extraordinary passion and power, a man who can bring out the seductress in any woman.… He enters her home without warning or invitation–a stranger of shadowy motives and commanding sensuality. Within hours, Alexia Welbourne is penniless, without any hope of marriage. Until Hayden Rothwell takes her to bed. When one impulsive act of passion forces Alexia to marry the very man who has ruined her, Hayden’s seduction of Alexia is nearly complete. What Alexia doesn’t know is that her irresistible new husband is driven by a secret purpose–and a debt of honor he will risk everything to repay. Alexia is the wild card. Reluctant to give up their nightly pleasures, Hayden must find a way to keep Alexia by his side...only to be utterly, thoroughly seduced by a woman who is now playing by her own rules. Kiss of the Wolf by Morgan Hawke Thorn Ferrell, a courier for the US Secret service, and a werewolf, is sent to Europe at the dawn of the Turko-Russian war. All she has to do is deliver a package and her term of service is finally over. Yaroslav once Prince of Luske during the dark ages, is a vampire. Driven from his home by a plague of the walking dead, Yaroslav is determined to discover who made the dead walk – and why. In a cave high in the Carpathian mountains, werewolf and vampire meet, and embrace for a fleeting moment of peace. She flees in the sunlight to continue her mission, but the vampire is determined to keep his newfound lover. During her journey Thorn comes face to face with her past, in the form of Max, a werewolf made by the same man that made her, the Doctor. However, unlike her, this werewolf is insane. And the Horror has come to town. Fleeing the other werewolf, and the walking dead, Thorn finds her vampire lover in big trouble. It seems that the Penumbral Court thinks thay Yaroslav, a powerful mage in his own right, is the culprit behind the plague of walking dead. Thorn is Fedhor’s only proof that there is another mage, an unknown sorcerer, doing forbidden magic. In the mean time... The sorcerer wants his werewolf back. The Sinful Nights of a Nobleman: A Novel by Jillian Hunter At a glamorous soiree in the romantic English countryside, Lord Devon Boscastle, one of the most elusive bachelors in London, is on the prowl for a willing and wicked lady to share a night of all-consuming sin. So he’s delighted to accept a mysterious invitation for a midnight rendezvous. Miss Jocelyn Lydbury, a demure young debutante, has her heart set on a marriage proposal from a certain respectable gentleman. Invited to a secret tryst at the stroke of twelve, she hopes to finally meet her longtime admirer. To her dismay, it is the heartbreaking Devon who lies in wait for his midnight lady. Before the pair can unmask their deceiver, they are caught in a passionate, if unplanned, embrace and forced into marriage. Although Devon claims he won’t change his roguish ways for anyone, upon returning to London he is surprised to find that his once-timid bride has become an alluring temptress. But little does he know that Jocelyn has vowed to tame her handsome rake–in the ballroom and in the bedchamber. The Wicked Games of a Gentleman: A Novel by Jillian Hunter Lord Drake Boscastle has everything–smoldering good looks, extreme wealth, and devilish charms. Everything, that is, except true happiness. Hoping to satisfy his growing discontent, he is set to meet one of the most celebrated courtesans in England for a heated rendezvous. But on the scheduled night of pleasure, Lord Drake’s world is turned upside down by Eloise Goodwin, a wholesome, spirited governess with voluptuous curves and a beguiling wit. Even with an experienced seductress willing to satisfy his every need, Lord Drake cannot forget his encounter with Eloise. Although swept off her feet by the mysteriously handsome rake, Eloise has more pressing matters to address. Her rebellious young client has escaped into the night with a local rogue and is nowhere to be found. Stepping in to assist, Lord Drake must try to resist his desire to indulge the longing passion he feels for Eloise. But once a scoundrel, always a scoundrel . . . or has the untamable Lord Drake at last been tamed? The Rest Falls Away: The Gardella Vampire Chronicles by Colleen Gleason In every generation, a Gardella is called to accept the family legacy of vampire slaying, and this time, Victoria Gardella Grantworth is chosen, on the eve of her debut, to carry the stake. But as she moves between the crush of ballrooms and dangerous, moonlit streets, Victoria's heart is torn between London's most eligible bachelor, the Marquess of Rockley, and her enigmatic ally, Sebastian Vioget. And when she comes face to face with the most powerful vampire in history, Victoria must ultimately make the choice between duty and love. Bond of Blood by Diane Whiteside Vampire fiction with a twist-and a touch of Texas heat. Former Spanish knight Don Raphael Perez has been a vampire for seven centuries, and is now the leader of the largest vampire territory in North America, spanning Texas and Oklahoma. But a rival is challenging his rule. Then he meets veterinarian Grania O'Malley, who's never felt the touch of a man. Raphael has sworn never to initiate a woman into the eternal pleasures of the flesh, but now it may be the only way to save her from his bloodthirsty adversary... The first book, The Hunter's Prey: Erotic Tales of Texas Vampires, is currently on sale at Books a Million. Tradesize for around 5 bucks! Pleasure Control by Cathryn Fox A dedicated scientist, Laura Manning has an I.Q. that's off the charts. But beneath her pristine white lab coat is a curvaceous body that craves satisfaction. She finds it hard keeping her mind on the experiment and off what's under the lab coat of her bad boy research partner, Jay Cutler, whom she's working with to develop a libido suppressant, an "antidote" for a society gone sex-mad, pumped up and over-stimulated by the miracle of Viagra. With time running out, Jay offers to act as a human guinea pig, injecting himself with the libido suppressant. Laura's role requires lingerie, soft music and candlelight. Her job is to entice him, to determine if the suppressant tamps down his desires. Rather than cooling the flames of lust engulfing them, their "antidote" only heats them up . . . and there's only one scandalous way to deal with it! Suddenly long days of laboratory work are giving way to sizzling nights of sensual experimentation—and a different kind of "chemistry" that leaves Jay and Laura breathless and gasping for more! Their professional careers may depend upon a successful climax—and there are dangerous competitors determined to steal their research. And maybe their pleasure games have gotten a bit out of control. Demon Angel by Meljean Brook Lilith, a demon, has spent 2,000 years tempting men and guaranteeing their eventual damnation. That is, until she meets her greatest temptation: the man whose life mission has been to kill her. She seriously needs a better blurb at Amazon. Master of Swords by Angela Knight Witch Lark McClure has survived a vicious vampire attack that shook her confidence and left her struggling with feelings of helplessness and fear. The last thing she needs is a partnership with Gawain, a handsome vampire knight who means to seduce her every chance he gets. "Devil's Kiss" by Brenda Williamson U.S. Marshal Jack McCay tracks outlaws for a profession and sweet-talks women out of their clothes for pleasure. When he begins to hunt a vicious killer, he meets one beautiful woman resistant to his charm. Swept Away by Toni Blake Five days before her wedding to a man she admires but doesn't love, Katrina Spencer escapes to a private island. There, she can let the sun warm her body as she contemplates a future without the passion she craves. Then she lazily opens her eyes, only to see Brock Denton . . . muscular, half-naked, the one who got away-;the one who makes her body tingle with arousal. How Brock arrived is a mystery, but it's clear he's in danger. Kat faces danger, too, in the arms of a man who is determined to free her from her every inhibition with his hands, his mouth, and more! Kat has five steamy days and five sultry nights to make up her mind-;return home to a man she doesn't love, or satisfy her wildest passions with Brock and let herself be . . . swept away.