Raven's Ramblings

a thought or two

2012-02-28T07:41:00.001-08:00

"Men are like buses.. None for ages and then two turn up....Who'd have thunk it?" And there's only one me. what's a girl to do? She looked at the two men in front of her and grinned

TBC...

Six Sentence Sunday

2012-02-26T00:21:00.000-08:00

My Release date for two books were swapped, so this is from Almost Entente Cordial which was released last Friday, by Breathless Press

As readers will know, it wasn't. I'm hoping the problems will be sorted out for this friday. It's out of my hands...

"I thought to be fucked and achieverelease was to increase your vocal attributes, not silence them? Perchance tobe fucked by a person of your own sex changes this?"

As she watched them, waiting for a reply, any reply,the skin of each man began to color. For some

strange inexplicable reason,she began to enjoy herself. Forsooth, she had been shamefully aroused upon

spying the two men deep in the throes of sexual ecstasy; their whole beingsattuned perfectly, their

concentration on each other so deep her presence wentunnoticed. If indeed she was to be true to herself,

and through this, true toher men, for surely that is what they were, then she must be open and honest;

neither were her loves, but both had been her lovers.

*********

I hope you like this

Bad news...Good news.....

2012-02-24T02:59:00.000-08:00

Hay all, Today there is some bad news and good news...

Bad news: Almost Entente Cordiale is not being released today due to some technical issues......don't worry you can still pre-order it...

Good News: that gives me more time to offer you a chance to win your own copy!! All you have to do is comment on this post! I will pick a name at the end of a week so check back then,

I know it's not ideal but I think the story is great and well worth waiting for!

As soon as I have a new release date I will share with you.........promise

almost entente cordiale .. in an ebook near you

2012-02-23T13:14:00.001-08:00

so now, at last my french spy his lover and ...? are telling their tale to you.

Set slightly earlier than my other regencies, this is set around 1800 when Bonaparte is still a real threat, and spies and suspicion abound.

Against all this. can my three lovers succeed and have happiness? ... you'll need to read their story to find out.

Here's a tease...

"We knew that to overcome that…that couchon, we needed help. One day, hewill be gone. And I will dance." Christianne's eyes were afire withdetermination. "He forced me from my beloved France. One of hispig-soldiers saw me in the herb garden and demanded I should be for him. MotherMarthe dissuaded him by saying I had my menses, to give us a period of grace.She knew he was one who did not enjoy copulation during that time. She spiritedme away. It was not, shall we say, a comfortable time, but the free tradershelped. I came to England, I was helped to get to my aunt, and you know therest."

"Now I wish to see your... Ah yes. Isee. I like." For both men had removed fine linen shirts to reveal tonedchests, one covered in fine blond hair, one in dark hair arrowing its way downward,directing eyes to the impressive erection demanding release from its confines.

Alastair watched her eyes flick from himto Julien and back. She said nothing, merely once more licking lips that lookednot dry, but inviting. He felt a soft finger circle his nipple.

"What says this?" She laid thefinger over the flesh next to his taught nub and traced.

"'Tis the Chinese symbol for hope.For without hope, we are lost." He waited. She nodded, and turned toJulien and traced the same symbol in the same place on his body.

"There is a reason you both havethese?" He thought she seemed not at all perturbed by the tattoos, butinterested as to the reasons they existed.

"To remind us of what we must keepin mind. To affirm our togetherness."

She nodded. Suddenly, her head dropped,and her mouth nipped hard on his nipple. He groaned as the sudden pain senturgent erotic messages to his groin.

"Ah, I was told it was of interestto a man." Christianne's voice was full of satisfaction. "When do Iget my tattoo? For if we are to be three…?" She smiled again, aninvitation, a challenge, a sign of acceptance.

if you like this and want to read more ... well go to www.breathlesspress.com or amazon

a visit from Anna Keraleigh

2012-02-21T23:28:00.002-08:00

Am I lucky or what? Anna Keraliegh has dropped by to chat, and talk about her new book, Seven Day's In Jade.

Her'e what she says...

Haveyou ever wanted to experience sex with another woman? Jade is in this exactpredicament. Her lover Ryan introduced her to the wicked wanton ways of m/f/fand below is a little excerpt of my new novella, SEVEN DAYS IN JADE.

Blurb:Jade is an unhappily married woman.

Ryan is a sexy Private Investigator who loves her.

He brings her secret fantasies to life, ice cream covered flesh, dominance,handcuffs and the ultimate desire of another woman. However, their wildsexcapade ends when Jade’s husband returns and their oasis returns to a desert.Can they survive apart now that they’ve tasted true love?

These lovers have a one-week affair that will change their lives forever.

Purchase SEVEN DAYS IN JADE for only$3.99 here! (http://www.whiskeycreekpress.com/torrid/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=635)

Jadecould smell him, that sexy musky Ryan aroma. If they bottled it, there shouldbe some sort of warning label, ‘This manwill make you a nymphomaniac.’ She smiled and felt a wandering hand on herbreast. He was awake then. “Hello…” she whispered. “You’re a sex god.”

Hislaughter warmed her heart and completed her soul. “I didn’t even get to fuckyou yesterday, you got all sleepy.” He kissed her exposed neck, suckled rightover her vein until her cheeks flamed.

Shedid get all sleepy; in fact, she distinctly remembered shattering in orgasmicwonder. “Sex god…” she mumbled again and turned to her back. She was stillwearing her dress and panties, her bra had vanished. “I thought I’d be nakedalready, and have your cock poking at my hip.”

“Baby,the second part is already in action.”

Ryanshifted closer and she felt his hard-on. Oh yeah, and what a lovely tease itwas. Again you’re going to start without me!” Katie huffed with awide grin. “Hi, sexy…” She winked at Jade who blushed all the way to highheaven.

“Hello.” She bit her lower lip and sat up. Her hands immediatelyslipped off the straps of her dress, her breasts in view. With a deep breathshe asked, “Want to play?”

Find my other books here! ( http://annakeraleigh.weebly.com)

Six Sentence Sunday

2012-02-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

As Almost Entente Cordiale, (regency erotica) is due to be released on 24th Feb, this

week's Six Sentences come from there.

Neveragain would he be able to scent roses, without thinking of this moment; in the
immaculate rose garden of Neasham Hale, watching Alastair, Lord Hale, hislover, and
the mystery woman. Her long red hair was spread over the lawn. Soreminiscent was it of
locked away memories of days long gone, that momentarilyhe winced in pain. She laid
prone, on the petal-strewn ground, her legs aroundAlastair's neck, seemingly enjoying
him, as he surely enjoyed her.

Devianthe had never considered himself until that moment, but now, as his eyes fixed
on the oblivious couple, he knew he could change that situation in a trice. Andfist
himself to an equivalent oblivion as he did so.

oohhh valentine winner

2012-02-15T10:32:00.001-08:00

and it is ... dadadadda
shadow_kohler. so which format of digital book would you like?

Six Sentence Sunday

2012-02-12T00:30:00.000-08:00

I had a hard time deciding what to post, but decided to post from The Price To Pay, which will be published on 24th February.

so...

He wondered if she knew just how sensual shelooked. Her head resting on his shoulder, those gorgeous curls spread over him,her soft pale breasts contrasting with his deeply tanned chest. His hands wereitching to touch. His cock was not far behind in the wanting stakes, he couldfeel it stirring as they sat there, not speaking, just enjoying the moment.

"Raig! You're vibrating."

WITH LOVE...

2012-02-10T22:06:00.000-08:00

It's valentines day SOON..

How do YOU celebrate... Chocolate? chocolate kisses? Chocolate body paint? Notice there's a theme here?

Chocolate... the one STAPLE food I could not (well would prefer not) to do without. What about you?

Comment on here and one lucky person, chosen at random will win an ebook of Taken Identity. (or if you have it something from my back list.. see everyone has a chance)

Here's the link back to the blog hop...

Whoever you are, wherever you are, have a good one!

a new image?

2012-02-08T12:33:00.000-08:00

So my lovely Cherie has updated my blog and my web, and I love my new look. It's a bit like changing clothes for the seasonI guess. We all like something new. Adds a spring (or autumn lol) to your step.

But does it really matter to the readers/viewers? Are they bothered what you site look like?

I happen to think it DOES matter. We need to be on top of things, show we care about our readers. Show they matter. Because without them... well, I don't need to spell it out.

But just how do we decide what is right? What is US? How do we know red or green, italics or times new roman is 'us'?

It's more than go with the flow. It's like finding your voice. When you find it you have that eureka moment and just know This. Is. MEEEE.

Then the problems may‚—I say may—start. Because if you are sort of techno-challenged like me you then curl into a little ball and hide your head until the gottadoitnowgremlin goes away and leaves you in peace. Which let's face it is about as likely as Queen of the South winning the Premiership this year! (er you need to live in Scotland to understand that. Try googling them!) Unless of course, you have own Cheriegoodfairy. Who comes along, waves her wand—well her fingers over the keyboard—and creates her magic.

And lo and behold... A brand new blogsite and web. And oh do I love them. There's a new sparkle to the sites, a new ooohhh and er and what if....

Now to anyone who is reading this. I'm opening up my nice newly updated blogsite once a week, on a Wednesday, to anyone who wants to post ( tho I do reserve the rights to amend or delete anything inappropriate—as I must.)

So if you're interested, email me at ravenmcallan@hotmail.co.uk, or comment on here.
Come on—join the fun and lets get posting.

Join-in-Wednedsay is up and running!

If you don't know what to write, don't worry, I'll give you a topic...

VERY Sinful Urges

2012-02-06T01:15:00.000-08:00

I have just read Sinful Urges, by Sonia Hightower, and all I can say is WOW.

Not at all what I expected.

The story of this couple had me ignoring everything I should be doing, and reading instead. The ending was so not what I expected, and brilliant.

No, I'm not going to give secrets away, tell you what it's all about except to say, you will not be disappointed when you read it. Juan and Maria and their struggles will keep you gripped from the start to the end and leave you gasping.

TIme to get your little plastic cards out and SPEND, you will not NOT regret it.

well okay—here's the blurb... to get your interest even higher peaked...

Follow the confessions of Juan and Maria as they fall prey to lust at first sight. Can they stop themselves before it's too late, or will they become victims of their own sinful urges?

A new neighbor sends Juan running to confession to rid himself of the lustful thoughts he experiences. Each confession becomes more erotic, more sinful than the last. Can Juan stop himself, or will he give in to the desire that threatens his very faith?

The man across the street causes Maria to question her own morals. When she seeks out a priest for confession, she weaves a tale of exotic kisses and stolen moments. How can Maria find sanctuary in her prayers when her body demands she finds solace in her neighbor's arms?

GO AND FOLLOW...

Six Sentence Sunday

2012-02-05T01:50:00.000-08:00

SIX SENTENCE SUNDAY

from Taken Identity

And you think that's a welcome? Oh no. Watch this."

Without a scrap of remorse, she drove her fist into the so-called Mr. McBeth’s stomach.

"Now," she said with satisfaction. "That is a welcome."

2012-01-29T08:35:00.001-08:00

this was too dark last time.. so here it is... R RENEE VICKERS is here

REposting so you can see this....
By day Sly is a take-charge, no-nonsense restaurateur, and at night she plays her hand as a demanding mistress. Sly has everything her heart desires: a successful business with loyal patrons, a gorgeous boyfriend and a flair for dominating in the bedroom. Everything sheís ever tried has gone her way, every decision followed to success, every goal achieved, and yet she yearns for more.

One night she decides to try something new, giving up her customary control to the tall, dark, and sexy Jake. Jake is put in a position to prove to his lover just what heís capable of, and Sly experiences the new pleasures to be found in letting someone else handle her reins.

Excerpt:

ìHey, sexy.î Slyís smooth voice purred behind Jake, just as her fingertip caressed from his chin to his jaw in one long motion ending up just behind his ear. Shivers ant-marched down Jakeís body. In that instant Jake knew. This is why. All of the anger, indignation, and embarrassment fled his mind as she wrapped an arm over his shoulder and down his chest. As her hot breath caressed his neck, her honeyed voice flooded his mind. ìI hope you havenít been waiting too long.î

It took everything he had to not swallow, to show no outward reaction to what she was doing to him with these miniscule teases. This was just another game to her. Sheíd make him wait until heíd be ready to walk out, until he was so mad he couldnít stand it and then sheíd show up, making him switch gears. Just like that. He shot a quick glance at Tony, who watched this dance out of the corner of his eyes, pretending like he was too busy toweling off a pristine glass to notice.

When Slyís tongue flicked Jakeís thick, silver-hoop earring he lost what small shred of control he had, albeit for a fraction of a second. He could feel her smile as her cheek rested against his neck. A prickling flash of anger growled in some dark recess of his mind.

She moved to half-lean, half-sit on the vacant stool next to him and he had to strangle a threatening gasp. If he hadnít, his body would have given away just how badly he wanted her. This was high-stakes poker, and so far the house was winning.

Sly wore a tight black corset. Though no doubt made of the finest and most sturdy materials, the bone-rib garment threatened to break under the flood pressure of her ample bosom. It must have been a custom piece because it slithered down her slim waist with precision. No department wares could hope to cope with a curvy form such as hers. He noticed the striking color contrast as the thick black material lay against her flawless, smooth, ivory-colored skin.

As his sight drew down, he soaked in just how short her layered black and burgundy diaphanous skirt was. She couldnít sit down without flashing her all to the world. Jake gulped, carelessly abandoning any desire to restrain himself. Seeing his reaction, Sly barked a throaty laugh. He refused to look up until he saw his favorite pair of strappy, black, four-inch stiletto heels. When he came up for breath he found her glossy crimson-colored lips snaked a Cheshire pattern across her gleaming teeth and humor glistening in her hazel eyes. Oh, how she loves this game.

Bio:

Born in Florida but raised in various towns in New England, R. Renée Vickers now lives in a small town just outside of Charleston, South Carolina, with her husband and children. And although work and family life leave her little free time, she spends every available moment indulging in her favorite passion, writing.

Buy Links
https://www.nobleromance.com/Books/364/Sly%27s-Surrender
http://www.amazon.com/Slys-Surrender-ebook/dp/B006PTINGI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1327552609&sr=8-1
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-sly039ssurrender-644616-147.html

Blog:
http://museampoule.wordpress.com/

Social Networks:
https://www.facebook.com/muse.ampoule
https://twitter.com/#!/MuSeAmpouLe
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5359850.R_Renee_Vickers

six sentence sunday

2012-01-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

from TAKEN IDENTITY

Honestly, why is trying to get ready for hot sex so frustrating? And not the Oh- my-god-I-need-you-in-me-now, frustration, but the fingers-won’t-undo-fastenings-fast- enough sort of frustration.

"Take your jumper off. I need to feel you, see you, oh sweet . . . ." Her voice trailed off as she succeeded in lowering the zip, and his strong, erect penis showed over the top of his underwear. Which gave a whole new meaning to the word briefs.

R Renee Vickers has dropped by....

2012-01-26T16:46:00.000-08:00

LOOK what we've got the chance to check out....
Lucky us

Blurb:

By day Sly is a take-charge, no-nonsense restaurateur, and at night she plays her hand as a demanding mistress. Sly has everything her heart desires: a successful business with loyal patrons, a gorgeous boyfriend and a flair for dominating in the bedroom. Everything sheís ever tried has gone her way, every decision followed to success, every goal achieved, and yet she yearns for more.

One night she decides to try something new, giving up her customary control to the tall, dark, and sexy Jake. Jake is put in a position to prove to his lover just what heís capable of, and Sly experiences the new pleasures to be found in letting someone else handle her reins.

Excerpt:

ìHey, sexy.î Slyís smooth voice purred behind Jake, just as her fingertip caressed from his chin to his jaw in one long motion ending up just behind his ear. Shivers ant-marched down Jakeís body. In that instant Jake knew. This is why. All of the anger, indignation, and embarrassment fled his mind as she wrapped an arm over his shoulder and down his chest. As her hot breath caressed his neck, her honeyed voice flooded his mind. ìI hope you havenít been waiting too long.î

It took everything he had to not swallow, to show no outward reaction to what she was doing to him with these miniscule teases. This was just another game to her. Sheíd make him wait until heíd be ready to walk out, until he was so mad he couldnít stand it and then sheíd show up, making him switch gears. Just like that. He shot a quick glance at Tony, who watched this dance out of the corner of his eyes, pretending like he was too busy toweling off a pristine glass to notice.

When Slyís tongue flicked Jakeís thick, silver-hoop earring he lost what small shred of control he had, albeit for a fraction of a second. He could feel her smile as her cheek rested against his neck. A prickling flash of anger growled in some dark recess of his mind.

She moved to half-lean, half-sit on the vacant stool next to him and he had to strangle a threatening gasp. If he hadnít, his body would have given away just how badly he wanted her. This was high-stakes poker, and so far the house was winning.

Sly wore a tight black corset. Though no doubt made of the finest and most sturdy materials, the bone-rib garment threatened to break under the flood pressure of her ample bosom. It must have been a custom piece because it slithered down her slim waist with precision. No department wares could hope to cope with a curvy form such as hers. He noticed the striking color contrast as the thick black material lay against her flawless, smooth, ivory-colored skin.

As his sight drew down, he soaked in just how short her layered black and burgundy diaphanous skirt was. She couldnít sit down without flashing her all to the world. Jake gulped, carelessly abandoning any desire to restrain himself. Seeing his reaction, Sly barked a throaty laugh. He refused to look up until he saw his favorite pair of strappy, black, four-inch stiletto heels. When he came up for breath he found her glossy crimson-colored lips snaked a Cheshire pattern across her gleaming teeth and humor glistening in her hazel eyes. Oh, how she loves this game.

Bio:

Born in Florida but raised in various towns in New England, R. Renée Vickers now lives in a small town just outside of Charleston, South Carolina, with her husband and children. And although work and family life leave her little free time, she spends every available moment indulging in her favorite passion, writing.

Buy Links
https://www.nobleromance.com/Books/364/Sly%27s-Surrender
http://www.amazon.com/Slys-Surrender-ebook/dp/B006PTINGI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1327552609&sr=8-1
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-sly039ssurrender-644616-147.html

Blog:
http://museampoule.wordpress.com/

Social Networks:
https://www.facebook.com/muse.ampoule
https://twitter.com/#!/MuSeAmpouLe
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5359850.R_Renee_Vickers

A ranty sort of blog against people who....

2012-01-26T02:00:00.000-08:00

do not switch off electronic equipment when asked to on a plane. (Mind you why don't the cabin crew check again AFTER they have asked)

I came home mid haul last week The person next to me didn't turn her ebook off til I asked her if it had some thing other ebooks didn't to make if allowable. ( it was a kindle lol) and a teen in the row opposite kept his Iphone AND headphones on all the time.

Why? Doesn't it matter then? Do we not need to stop reading? I'd love to know because I always have to shut down at the interesting bit!

And while I'm on my ignorant passenger rant... how come you (you know who you are) think that being asked TWICE to put your bag under the seat in front of you and blatantly ignoring the polite request, makes it all okay. Because if we crash I hope it was YOU that plastic bag suffocated when it was pushed onto your face, likely though you'd be the one to walk out unscathed.
Do people really think cabin crew have nothing better than to REPEATEDLY ask a passenger to do something that is expected? Come on. Are all these rules made up by a jobsworth just to make you roll your eyes and ignore them? I don't think so.

But I would like to know why my kindle might send us to Guadaloup not Glasgow!

nine for the week with Diane

2012-01-23T15:09:00.000-08:00

OOPS later than I hoped but well worth waiting for

The (nearly) Naughty Nine with Dianne Hartsock.

This week our naughty nine have an erotic romance twist

Welcome Dianne to Raven's Nine for the Week.

I realize just how busy you are, so I'm really glad you could drop by.

Thanks for having me on your delicious site Raven! What a fun way to start my week.

Q We'll get this one over first, tell us a little bit about yourself.

A Sure thing. By day I’m a floral designer. I’ve always wanted to be a painter but really suck at it, so instead I paint with the color of flowers. Sounds corny, huh? But that’s how I feel when the colors come together in a beautiful arrangement.

At night I turn to the love of my life, writing. Nothing excites me more than when my plots fall apart and my characters take control of the keyboard. They take me places I’d never thought to go and experiences I’d only dreamed of. It’s fun and hard work and agonizing and wonderful.

Q Thanks, now we can probe a bit more. How do you relax?

A I have to smile here. Not everyone will think this is the best way to relax. But after working all day and writing in the evening until my brain grows numb, I like to pull up my TBR list on Goodreads and pick an m/m erotic short to read. You might not think that’s relaxing, and often it’s not! But I can slip into someone else’s shoes for fifteen hot minutes, then go to bed to some yummy dreams.

When it’s a day off and I have more time, I’ll grab a cup of coffee or glass of beer with friends, go see a movie, actually sit down and read for an hour or so! When my husband’s home we’ll go to the coast for the day or laze around the house doing…um…things.

Q What is your favorite genre to read, and why?

A I like the creepy thrillers of Dean Koontz, the chill that Robin Cook’s medical thrillers give me and the excited rush I get reading C.J. Cherryh’s fantasies. See, I can’t pick just one genre! These books wake up my imagination and scare me. They’re full of mysteries to solve and lives to save and heroes to cheer on.

Q and of course to write, and why?

A This last year I’ve been flirting with the men in my m/m erotics. I can’t resist those gorgeous bodies straining against each other… ehem…

Shelton in Love

Breathless Press: http://www.breathlesspress.com/shelton-love

Shelton is falling hard for his best friend and roommate, finding Nevil’s dark good looks and moments of gentleness almost impossible to resist. But Nevil is more interested in affairs of the body than the heart. As Shelton’s desire for the man grows, he wonders if he can change Nevil’s mind. But does he even want to? Nevil might not stay, once he learns Shelton’s secret, and then his loneliness would be complete.

Shelton’s Promise

Breathless Press: http://www.breathlesspress.com/sheltons-promise

Shelton has a gift he’s eager to give to Nevil. At a party, Nevil flirts with one man after another, keeping Shelton on his toes. Then Percy, an ex, shows up to complicate things. Despite his best efforts, Shelton can’t find the right moment to give Nevil his gift. Will Nevil ever let Shelton get close to him, or will Shelton have to keep the gift in his pocket all evening?

Shelton’s Choice

Breathless Press: http://www.breathlesspress.com/sheltons-choice

After a year of bliss with Nevil, Shelton is offered the promotion he's been working toward at the bank. Unfortunately the new position is in another state, and Nevil doesn't want to move. As tension mounts between them, Shelton is given another challenge in the form of a besotted coworker. Torn between the pressures at work and at home, Shelton has to choose his future. That is, until Nevil takes the decision out of his hands.

But my favorite genre is the paranormal thriller. My novel ALEX was published this last May and I can’t wait to get to work on its sequel. Don’t worry! I always have several hot as hell characters to keep the story titillating. Otherwise, where’s the fun?

Alex

Solstice Publishing: http://www.solsticepublishing.com/products/Alex%252d%252dPDF-EBOOK.html

Alex is twenty and confused. He always is. He hears the cries of children, the screaming women. He sees the brutal images of the tortured victims. Severely abused as a child, he is left with horrible scars on his body and even worse scars within his mind. Even though it puts him in danger, he’s compelled to help those who call to him. He’s driven, motivated by his visions to rescue them and uncover the killer. When he can, he helps the police; yet some detectives suspect he’s the cause of the problem, not the solution. Often, Alex finds himself alone and afraid in a world he doesn’t always comprehend.

Q Where do you prefer to read? (or write) What do you wear? And eat? (OK, I know this is cheating as well, but we need all the gen in our naughty nine)

A In winter, I love to read on the couch, in my cotton pajamas, with a fire burning on the hearth. I usually have a bowl of popcorn next to me. In summer, I’m lying on the lawn in tank top and shorts, hat, with a cold beer and cheese/crackers at my elbow.

As for writing, I’m pretty much always in the same spot, at the dining room table with my laptop. I have a wall of windows on my left and the patio doors across the room overlook my flower garden. I’m in the clothes I wore to work that day, usually jeans and a nice blouse. Days off, I’m in comfy sweats. Coffee’s always on and I try to munch on healthy foods, though if there’s chips anywhere near me, I’m a goner.

Q So three things you love

A My husband Mark. My daughter Jennie. My son Tim.

Okay, I also love dark chocolate and dark beer and holding hands with my lover.

Q Three you don't

A Being cold. Isn’t it summer yet?

Getting up for work after only five hours of sleep. I just had to finish that scene, didn’t I?

House work when my characters are on their knees begging for attention. They are cute that way, though…

Q Three things you would like to happen in the next three years? Feel free to add to the three things you don't,

A Finding a publisher for my fantasy adventure novel.

That my husband finds a job he can be happy with.

Both my children close to graduating from college.

B. I don’t want the world to end in December. I have too many more books to write!

I don’t want either of my kids to drop out of school.

I don’t want to lose the joy I have in writing because its become a chore.

Q lastly the quick fire round...

Favorite Color- Red

Book of all time- The Return of the King, J.R.R. Tolkien

piece of music- Optimist, Zoe Keating http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4ZMkkunnCE

That's it painless eh?

It was great! I’m usually too busy for much introspection, but it was nice to pause and see where I am in the world.

Thanks for dropping by and giving us a peek into your life. Feel free to add any links to blogs websites etc so we can all find out what you are up to.

Feel free to contact me anytime!

Blog: http://diannehartsock.wordpress.com/

FB: http://www.facebook.com/diannehartsock

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/diannehartsock

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4850270.Dianne_Hartsock

and we have a winner

2012-01-23T11:35:00.000-08:00

Well, after Gray Reynard, my gorgeous hero of Taken Identity allowed himself to be interviewed on The Tardis Scribbles I promised a copy of Taken Identity to some lucky person who now follows my blog.

So, by the highly scientific method of asking my DH to pick a number, CONGRATULATIONS to Morticia Knight! If you contact me with an email address, I'll send a pdf winging to you.

And watch this space I feel a rant about ignorant air passengers coming on!

words my mother NEVER taught me... Watch my language

2012-01-13T02:30:00.000-08:00

Is it just me or do other writers have the same problem as me—writing words you'd never dream of saying.

Words your mother never spoke, words that would have got your mouth washed out with soap and water (Well a slap round the legs and no pocket money anyway!)

It's not that the are necessarily 'rude' either then or now, just not words you used in your life. Lets face it most kids were given a name for their 'er private parts' and some of them bear no resemblance/connection to what they are a euphemism for. In fact most of them don't I'd say. But it was felt it was less crude? nicer? to say posy, daffodil, belinda, and er cozy, rather than vagina and clitoris. Now its pussy, mound, clit, slit etc

Males don't fare any easier. J-T, John Thomas, pecker, cock, dick, peter, sword, staff; all used instead of penis. I wonder why?

Personally, I find it a lot easier to say and write penis and vagina, (or as Maureen Lipman once said in a glorious slip of the tongue, penis and geneva!) Although the more I write cock, the easier it gets. BUT can I say it out loud? no way!

As for swear words/profanites/ crudities (No NOT crudites crudity) arghh.

Part of the problem is that in times gone by (how quaint) words considered vulgar today, were considered perfectly normal. For instance cunt, the no no word of present times. Perfectly acceptable to use in 17 and 18 century, fuck was in everyday then as well. (Some of my works are regency erotica, so you see my problem?)

Other words considered to be a no-no to my parents were frig, shag etc...( I am MAKING myself write them lol)

Perhaps all these words that were used, then were not and now ARE ( confused? never mind not much more to read) will as the roundabout spins become not acceptable again. Who knows?

Meanwhile, I'll write them, peeking through my fingers, trying not to actually say them, and hope it all works. But I'll still look round guiltily as I do... sorry mum, they made me!

AHHHH today is ALEX day

2012-01-12T01:35:00.000-08:00

(sorry Kitty, I'm borrowing him again, and NO, no gymslip thank you. Serge plays havoc with sensitive skin.)
Now anyone who knows me, or reads my Fb/blog will know I <3 Sven from Doris O'Connor's Scandinavian Scandal (Noble romance) big time. he is MINE.
But, I have to admit after interviewing Alex Giovanni the other day, He runs a VERY close second. Maybe it's his story To Hot To Handle which came out today (Oh Yes I have my copy all ready to be read as a reward for finishing my edits–if I can wait that long) from Evenight publishing. Hot by title, Hot by nature, and er all over just HOT
So today is officially ALEX GIOVANNI day, and as the founder member of the Alex (and Sven) appreciation society, can I do a great big HIGH FIVE, and thank Doris for letting me er I mean us have oops no SHARE them.
Off to drool and think and sigh and wonder and er well.......

where I swoon, get all flustered and wish I was called Kitty. An interview with Alex Giovanni

2012-01-10T23:55:00.000-08:00

If I become incoherent during this interview, ignore me. But I have Alex Giiovanni with me today, and boy does he live up to the title of his story—To Hot To Handle

Hi Alex

(Tugs at school girl uniform I've borrowed from Kitty, I'm sure she's laughing her socks off. Oh she can't I'm wearing them) I'm so glad you could come and chat today. Make yourself at home. Coffee? Gluten free cupcake?

A. Ciao Raven ( he kisses my hand with a big grin) Coffee would be lovely, thank you and I brought some Italian pastry, gluten free of course, just for you.

(He runs an appreciative glance over my outfit) Did my mother send you that by any chance?

R. Actually I borrowed it off Kitty.

A. (chuckles and shakes his head) How come I'm not surprised.

R. Now if you're comfortable, how about telling us a little about yourself.

A Well, my name is Alex Giovanni, I'm a fire fighter and I'm married to the most amazing woman ever. She puts up with my snoring (he winks) and my interfering family. I'm the youngest of four siblings, and the only male. The Giovanni are well known round these parts… (he chuckles to himself)We're probably infamous.

R. Why infamous?

A. (bursts out laughing and taps his nose) Spoilers, my lovely Raven, spoilers. You will just have to read the book to find out.

(Oh believe me I'm going to, once I've stopped trembling enough to see the pages.)

R So life seems good now, but not that long ago?

A It was all very different. Kitty and I had some tough times. To be honest I don't really know how she put up with me and my family, especially Mamma. And if it wasn't for Kitty I wouldn't be sitting here, still doing the job I love. She pulled me through one of the darkest times in my life. Without her I'd have just given up. (He grows pensive and seems lost in thought, before he pulls out his wallet and shows me some pictures.)

As you can see, we have plenty of reason to celebrate now.

R You're a lucky man and Kitty is a very lucky woman. What do you think is the best thing about your relationship? Do you still role play?

(Oh if they don't just you wait Kitty, this get up was all your idea)

A (chokes on his sip of coffee and laughs) Well, that would be telling, now wouldn't it. Are you sure you're not related to my mother? Cause it was our anniversary last week and Mamma sent us another parcel from Ann Summers and (his grin turns wicked) I best stop there, Kitty would kill me.

R Okay, so er we won't go into that so deeply. Er now let's do silly things (Shoot he's now laughing at my choice of words. And that wink…. Calm yourself woman)

A Oh doing silly things is definitely my favorite pastime. Let's have some fun.

R If you could chose anyone in the world, who would be a good world leader and why?

A (bursts out laughing) My mother. No one would dare cross her. The entire Giovanni are under her thumb, with perhaps the exception of Kitty. Kitty's temper certainly matches Mamma's. Ask anyone, Stella Giovanni is a force to be reckoned with. She would organize world affairs in no time and still have time for her family.

R Who would you banish to a desert island by themselves? Oh and why? Er Irene not included

A I would banish Irene to the pits of hell. Why waste a perfectly good island on (he swears in Italian) a person, and I use that term loosely, like that. I wouldn't banish anyone. I like to keep my enemies close. The Giovanni have connections, let's just leave it at that. I'd keep the island for Kitty and I to play Tarzan. (he winks and smiles)

R right, I don't ever want to get on your bad side (not that I can see one from where I'm sitting) So maybe a silly question, but who wears the trousers in your house?

A I do, obviously. I prefer my women in skirts, easier access. (he chuckles to himself and throws his hands up.) Only joking. Kitty and I are a partnership. It's a give and take, unless you're talking in the bedroom… now that is another matter entirely.

(Now I didn't think I could get any hotter, but I swear you could fry eggs on my cheeks—FACE cheeks, don't be cheeky.. oh shoot wrong choice of words. And now Alex is looking at me quizically)

A You okay? You look er flustered. (He's laughing again.)

R Er yes, thanks I'm fine. So, now, Now short and snappy Favorite color?

A red, the colour of Kitty's hair.

R food?

A Pizza

R music?

A heavy rock

R and movie?

A It's a wonderful Life. Christmas is a special occasion and I grew up on that film. We still put it on every year. It was my Papa's favourite.

R Thanks Alex. Where do you see yourself in five years time?

A Still firefighting, professionally and personally (he chuckles) did I mention Kitty is a red head? She lives up to their reputation. Enjoying my growing family.

(I'm somewhat distracted I've no idea of what I've asked. To be so close to him….)

R anything else you'd like to add?

A Thanks for having me here today. It's been a blast. If you ever need a fire inspection, do look me up.

And here's an excerpt from Alex and Kitty's story, To Hot To Handle. Released on 12^th January

When firefighter Alex Giovanni returns to his old neighborhood to fulfill family obligations, he is reunited with the woman inhabiting his dreams. The sexy siren ran out on him after one explosive night many years ago. Hiding behind her sensible clothes she portrays the perfect image of Miss Prim and Proper and Alex vows to unlock the passionate woman he remembers. Mixing business with pleasure has never been so much fun.

Kitty Jenkins’ orderly life gets turned upside down when Alex walks into her school. Their passion filled night four years ago has left her with a secret that threatens to tear them apart. Giving into Alex is out of the question, regardless of how much her body craves his touch.

When secrets spill and disaster strikes, can their passion turn into love?

Excerpt

“Damn, Kitty, what difference does it make? This isn’t about my mother; this is between you and me, and there are so many better ways we could fill our time with right now.”

Like have you naked in my arms, screaming my name. Alex grimaced. Her eyes, which had moments before been full of sensual awareness, turned to green steel.

“Please, Kitty, I’m dying here.”

Kitty’s gaze dropped down to his all too obvious arousal, and he saw her swallow once before she hastily brought her gaze back up to his face.

“That’s really not my problem, Alex; it’s all yours. And you will have to take many a cold shower until you tell me what’s going on!”

“Oh will I?”

Damn you, Kitty, enough is enough. He crossed the distance between them in one long stride, pulled her flush against his body, and his mouth came down hard on her lips. Her shocked gasp gave him entry, and his tongue sought hers. He groaned when Kitty came alive in his arms. Their tongues twining together, he ground his hips into hers and marched her toward the nearest wall. Hell yes. This was what they needed. He was done with talking and analyzing and treading softly. He wanted her with a need so fierce it completely consumed him. Kitty’s hands clung onto his shoulders, her sighs echoing in his ears as his hand pulled her skirt up, and he found her slick folds.

“You’re so wet already.” His voice shook as his cock strained against his flies, and he slid two fingers into her pussy. Her walls contracted around them. “Jeez, Kitty, I need to be in you right now.”

”Mmm, what are you waiting for?” Kitty’s breathless reply shot straight to his cock, her feline eyes almost black with need as she fumbled with his zipper.

Kitty’s hands wrapped around his eager cock, and he sucked in his breath when she took the initiative and rolled the condom on him with firm strokes. His balls grew heavy, and he ground his teeth together with the effort it took to not spill there and then like an inexperienced teenager. He spun her around so that she faced the settee and used his thigh to spread her legs. His fingers pushed in deep, and his thumb found her clitoris. Kitty moaned, and a fresh wave of her cream coated his fingers.

“Bend forward for me, and grab the sofa.” She complied immediately and then tensed when he used one finger, slick with her juices to circle her anus.

“Alex, I’m not sure.”

He kissed her shoulder, whilst rubbing his cock along her slit repeatedly until her moans grew more urgent again. She grabbed the back of the settee and locked her arms, and their gazes fused when she looked at him over her shoulder. Her face flushed, her breathing as erratic as his, her eyes widened when he spread her ass cheeks and aligned his cock against the tight ring of muscle.

“Relax, baby, let me in.”

She took a deep breath as he pushed against her entrance, and he froze when Kitty winced. One hand on her hip he held himself perfectly still, giving her body a chance to adjust. He slid his other hand to her clit and circled the bud slowly, causing Kitty to relax, and he felt the muscles give as he slid past the ring and drove himself into her tight heat with a deep growl of satisfaction until he was seated to the hilt. Her throaty moans of pleasure edged him on, and every stroke into her tight ass tested his control. When she pushed back against him, matching his pace, he lost what little restraint he had left, pounding into her ass, his balls slapping against her pussy with every thrust. Her cries joined his grunts of pleasure, the pressure building for both of them until his own powerful climax robbed him of any coherent thought, barely aware of Kitty screaming his name, as her body, too, flew into ecstasy.

Once his heart rate slowed down enough for him to catch his breath, he became aware of Kitty shifting in his arms. His own muscles screamed at him, and his now softened cock slipped out of her ass. He gently turned her around, until she rested on the back of the sofa. A wash of affection welled up in him seeing Kitty try to tuck her skirt down. Her cheeks flamed when she caught sight of her ruined knickers, which he had torn and carelessly tossed on the floor earlier. He owed her a few of those now. He disposed of the condom, aware of her wary gaze resting on him, her arms once again wrapped around her middle, her teeth worrying her bottom lip.

“We must stop doing this.”

“Oh I agree that we really ought to try a bed for once.”

Buy link http://www.evernightpublishing.com/

(Now I'm going for a cold drink and a lie down in a darkened room. And oh to take this damned outfit off, although umm maybe not. When is DH home?)

THE LOVELY KARINA give us food for thought!

2012-01-10T01:25:00.000-08:00

Think Before You Tweet!
The internet is a wonderful, wonderful thing. After all, it's the reason so many of us are now published!
It also gives us a direct link to potential readers, enabling us to interact and gain interest in our work. And of course, we can promote our books from the comfort of our own living room J Blogs, websites, social networking sites – they are all part and parcel of being an author these days. At the click of a mouse we have immediate contact with the people who are buying our new releases.
But with these powers comes great responsibility…
We are less than two weeks into the New Year and already there have been some spectacular spats in the on-line readers/writers' community. Over on Goodreads there have been vitriolic rants from authors against reviewers who have given less than favourable opinions on their work. Unfortunately, the war of words seems to quickly descend into personal attacks and, as so often happens these days, news has spread to Twitter and Facebook. The professionally outraged on both sides of the community have banded together with their pitchforks at hand, ready to charge at those who, in the heat of the moment, didn't stop to think before they hit enter.
As an author I appreciate how devastating it would be to see your precious work torn apart on a review site when you've put your heart and soul into it. I'm also aware there are internet Trolls lurking, who seem to get a kick out of being nasty to people for no particular reason. Case in point would be one of my CPs who received a one star review of her debut novel before it had been released!
But we have to expect honest reviews too and take criticism on the chin. Not everyone is going to like what we write and we can't expect them to. What we can, and should, expect is professionalism from both authors and reviewers in these situations. By stepping over the line to venture into personal insults only damages the reputations of those involved.
Of course, I haven't been on either end of an argument like this and it's easy for me to wag a finger and say 'Don't do it!' But I hope with the fall-out we have seen recently, it will make us all think before we hit send on a potentially damaging comment. With my own baby, Daring to Love, now out there, I am bracing myself for whatever people have to say about it. In any event, I'm sure I will have my ever-supportive CPs to haul me back from the brink of professional suicide if I ever feel the urge!

AND oh we will!

Karina Buchanan Daring to Love is out now from Breathless Press

monday morning memories

2012-01-08T22:14:00.000-08:00

I woke up early in a reminiscent mood, no idea why.

And started to think of Monday's long gone by.

(That wasn't supposed to rhyme by the way, but darn it now I'm singing it to myself!—To the tune of "Just my imagination, running away with me"—A new career if the writing goes down the pan?)

Back to Mondays :-

When I was at primary school, it was the day I got to meet up with all my friends again. The day to remember to take my dinner money in. (School dinners were fairly mundane, but as my friends ate them, so did I.) The day to be glad to be out of the house because in those days (or the olden days as my lovely children would say,) it was washing day.

By the time I got to senior school, Monday was always the 'Oh no, SCHOOL again day.' The day when I realised I hadn't finished my homework/couldn't find my gym kit/had lost my school dickie bow (I kid you not, the girls wore dickie bows)/really didn't want to see Joe Bloggs again. OR alternatively DID want to see Joe Bloggs again. (It sort of depended on what Joe Bloggs looked like/acted like, and how old I/he was)

Then it was work. Now Mondays, depending on the job, took on a whole new meaning. In some jobs, it was the groan, new week, five days at work syndrome. (and damn I haven't ironed a shirt/blouse/skirt) In others, (like retail) it made no difference, as I might have worked the weekend. In fact a Monday could give you the TGIF feeling only it was a TGIM feeling instead!

So children arrive. And they go to school. And then I got the 'Oh no It's monday feeling,' tied in with the TGIM feeling; depending on how the weekend had gone, and how much lack of homework/loss ofgym kit/moaning about a boy/girl/teacher I'd heard. (and how much arguing at high volume there had been.) And of course the "where's my blouse/shirt/skirt/tie/schoolbag" shouts!

Then children move away. And it's up to me and DH to have whichever Monday morning feeling we feel is appropriate for that week. And it depends on which jobs and was there a blouse/shirt/skirt ironed etc to fix which feeling I got.

Now I'm not working outwith (posh word—for a Monday eh?) home at the moment, which means I have the luxury of only having half a Monday morning feeling. DH does work Monday to Friday, (unless he's away, but that's another story) so I suppose now it's the okay, alone again rub hands together, I can do what I want feeling tempered with the I really enjoyed our weekend together, 'sigh' it seems a long while until the next one!

And it gives me time to ramble on about a whole load of nothing!

Although I think I know why I started to think of my schooldays and the dreaded dickie bow. But you'll need to read my interview on Wednesday with Alex Giovanni from Doris O'Connor's To Hot To Handle to find out why!

weekend dirty dozen Warning EROTICA

2012-01-06T00:01:00.000-08:00

how fortuitous (I sound like my heroine here) i have a book out today from where I have taken this extract. To Please A Lady, from www.breathlesspress.com, amazon arc etc etc

You are fully cognizant with what is being asked of you. However, do you wish me to be specific?”

“Oh, if it so pleases you, my lords, do so with my blessing.” She wanted to see how they would phrase their request.

Simply and crudely.

“Should it please you, Hermione, it would please us for all three to fuck together, in a myriad of ways, discovering all we can do for each other. What say you?” Berry regarded her with a laughing eye.

“Why?” had been her reply.

“For we all wish it. The delights will be many-fold, from partici-pating to regarding. All guaranteed to make our cocks hard with de-sire, and your cunt wet with anticipation.”

and to read all the other dirty dozens go to http://weekenddirtydozen.blogspot.com/

Happy Reading

Now here is one hot cover

2012-01-04T11:18:00.000-08:00

and one HOT hero. I saw this and drooled. now don't get me wrong, I fall in love with all my hero's but Gray here and Raig in The Price To Pay more than tickle my tastebuds. (and other places I better not mention on here :) )

TAKEN IDENTITY is released by Noble Romance on Jan 16th, and I'm rather pleased with it. It was my first contemporary, and I wasn't sure I could really write in this era. I had it rejected because I was told I had too many main-ish characters. (hero and heroine and three secondary? ) Oh well... but as usual my conscience nipper aka Doris O'Connor persuaded me to give it another go and woo hoo Noble took it AND were VERY complimentary. I had very little to do to it. So again it reinforces that old saying you can't please all of the people...

And I really am VERY pleased with all of it.

so here's your sneak preview...

Jules was flipping rapidly through the pages of one of her diaries as he spoke. "As a matter of great interest, how did you find me all of a sudden? I mean if you’ve been hunting Julia Frayne since she left Gray, why has it taken you this long? I’m on Google." And how up yourself do you sound now, Jules, she thought, annoyed.

Gray looked somewhat embarrassed. "Yes, well, er, oh shit. We haven’t been looking that long. I mean for God’s sake, how do you admit the woman you thought was madly in love with you has made a right idiot of you, left you, and taken the family jewels.

Jules and Sean burst out laughing.

"What?" Gray must have realized what he said because he colored faintly. "Yeah, well, the way I felt when I found out, you probably could have said she had. Put me off women for a long time, I can tell you. With one memorable fiasco, I am not going to mention. Talk about being taken for a ride twice. However, I have learned my lesson, well. No more, never again."

"Ahh, bless. Build a bridge," Jules replied. "Hell where do I start?"

"Pardon?" Back to the lava freezing then.

"Pardon what?" if he could be short and shirty, then so could she. Probably better and more able to keep it up for longer. Not for nothing had she learned to hold her own against her brother. However, she'd be magnanimous.

"I'm sorry, what are you asking my pardon for?"

"Build a bridge."

"Oh that." Jules laughed. "Build a bridge. Get over it. Stop feeling sorry for yourself. It’s happened. End of. If anyone should be feeling sorry, it’s me. There’s someone out there using me as them. Getting up to God knows what. Now that is something to worry about. OK your jewels—all of them—are precious, but presumably, one lot is insured, and the other lot is now in full working order?"

She could see Gray was trying hard not to laugh.

"Perhaps you’d like to try them out?"

AND don't forget To Please A Lady is out this Friday 6th. Happy times!

a giveaway!

2012-01-01T23:16:00.000-08:00

I got up this morning to a very welcome email. It's my zip file with my multi-formats of to Please A Lady, which is to be published this friday Jan 6th. AND a reminder I have some to give away. So Let's do it.

One lucky person (Well let's hope they think so) who comments here on this post will win a copy.
To Please A Lady, will be my second Regency Novella to be published, And I hope that anyone who is gracious enough to but/read it will get as much enjoyment from it as I did when I wrote it.

It's great fun, letting your imagination run riot, to create a scenario, meet your characters, and then see where they take you. (which I guess means I'm a pantster) I always start off knowing where I think we're going. It doesn't always end up there!

So meet my heroine Hermione—and her hero's! that's right, both of them. Berry and Ran. All strong willed, all very determined to get what they want and in the way they want it. Do their ideals coincide?

Here's an excerpt to whet your appetite, and don't forget to win you need to comment. I'll pick winner on release day!

“I chose to join you both, to have an input in your decision, by helping to show you the delights and excitements available an you choose to accept us both together. For two months now you have, I believe enjoyed us both, separately?”

She nodded, no need to prevaricate, they both knew that was true

“Therefore,” Berry continued smoothly, “when Ran put his suggestion to me, I acquiesced immediately. For to experience we two together will I feel be, the pinnacle of all excitements offered.”

“You may feel so, I do not know so, and did not choose to know so as yet. If ever. I confess I am gravely disappointed.” More so because she would now not be impaled on his long hard cock, but that information she was not going to impart.

Berry’s eyes hardened, the look she noted in the eyes of Ran. Ah, they were going to push for an ultimatum? So be it.

“As are we, My Love. Our apologies if we have advocated for your decision earlier than you wished. But we feel that you have made your choice, else why ask to meet with us on the morrow. Am I right?”

Hermione nodded, and took a deep breath. Here was the time to make known the resolution that would herewith shape her life.

“May you now inform us of your decision? Are we to be three together, not three apart?”

oh what a year... and a bit

2011-12-31T08:35:00.000-08:00

And really the title says it all.

Oh what a year and a bit I've had.

This time last year and a bit ago, I was off work, with a dodgy shoulder and arm, which meant I couldn't lift and carry much. And I was bored rigid.

This time this year, I'm still off work, with a dodgy shoulder and arm, which means I can't lift and carry much. But no way am I bored rigid. I don't have the time.

So those 14 or so months ago, I was playing on the net and saw a competition to write a romance novel. Submit a first chapter. so I did. It was abysmal. But I joined the newbies facebook group, and found some great friends.

I duly (and luckily) went on holiday to get back to be told I was in a newly formed crit group—Up and Coming Writers. The best thing that could have happened!

We wrote a book together, and I really must re-read it, (The brilliant Awakening by Doris O'Connor came from it) and it really gave us all the push to write and write and write.

I made a decision. I would be published before my big '0' birthday in December, and I would write as I could, not as I thought I should. And with the encouragement, nagging, pushing, shoving, and shouting from UCW, I did and I sent off Wallflowers Don't Wilt. The lovely Jackie at Breathless Press saw its potential, and it was released in the autumn.

It seems to be a long while ago now, but I haven't been slacking, and am in the lucky position of have 5 books out in the first half of 2012 and three shorts in antho's. Lucky or what?

Truly, I feel blessed. This is my dream, and I've realized it! And I still am realizing it. Yes, It's been hard at times, yes I've had to persevere and yes I've had negative responses from people very close to me. But I know I can't please all of the people all of the time.

LIkewise with reviews, I know what I write isn't for every one, Too risque, too tame, too short, too long, there will always be something that doesn't suit someone. (Be it an editor or a reader.) My skin has got a lot thicker I can tell you. Perhaps the only thing that does annoy me is getting negative comments from someone I know hasn't read my books. how do you KNOW you don't like it?

Thank's to all of you who have been with me on this incredible journey, please join me in 2012 as well.
I hope you all have had a good year and 2012 gets even better.

As the late, great, Dave Allen said, may your Gods go with you.

All the best Raven xxx

I love christmas..BUT... this is not a Christmas Blog

2011-12-23T11:03:00.000-08:00

I LOVE christmas. Definitely, irrevocably, deeply.

But this is not about Christmas.

It's about baths!

Yup baths, those ceramic, porcelain or plastic, longish thin or not so thinnish troughs you can, if you so desire, wallow in.

To me if you need to get clean—you shower.

If you need to wallow, ponder, plot or dream, you have a bath.

It's the preparation. Which potion, lotion, or bubbles. Which CD, or ipod track to put on. Which book to read, by which candlelight. And which dream to follow.........

Then the long, slow, sink into much too hot water, to lie, and wallow, and sip, and sigh, and wonder. should I do this? or that?

I think this started when my children were little. The bath was the only place to get peace. MY time, my relax, and my dream-time. Then as they got older, my time to plot. I confess some of my best ideas happen in the bath. Not just about my writing, about clothes, holidays, even what to cook for dinner.

But I confess, yes it's those ohh yes, wow, must remember this, moments for whatever I'm wrIting on—or hadn't even known I was going to be writing on, that are the best.

I always say, I have no idea where my ideas come from. Strictly that is still true. I don't know WHERE they come from, just that a long, hot, lingering bath seems to release the best things in my mind. (not the wine, honestly)

SO, as a little teaser, here's one of my 'in the bath moments'. Taken from To Please A Lady, From Breathless Press on Jan 6th. Happy Reading ...

Her maid dismissed, Hermione removed the long plain nightrail she had been so recently helped into, and slipped her arms into a sheer silk covering. Or, non covering she thought, amused as tying the first of the silken ribbons that held its two sides together, she caught sight of her image in the mirror. Rosy nipples showed through the material, their darkened surrounds providing a guide to their presence. Lower, the shadow of dark curls hid her pussy, or was it that they showed the way to where it waited, impatient to feel the hard, usually impatient cocks that it welcomed? Oh the joy of having no pretense, being able to be honest and open about her enjoyment of the act of lovemaking, these last months had been so satisfying; those to come promised to be even more so. Tying the lowest set of ribbons, barely inches below those curls, Hermione could not control her compunction to sooth the throbbing concealed within. Her hand slipped beneath the ribbons, and touched. She closed her eyes to feel with her senses. Ah that first swirl through her curls and then, the sheer pleasure of touching her now wet lips, finding her fingers coated with the evidence of her desire. The intensity of her feelings shot through her like lightening and she gasped. Not from her arousal, however.

Dark velvet covered her eyes.

As she caught her breath, soft hands feathered across her nape as the covering was fastened. Then her hair was pushed to one side, and she experienced the press of lips, kissing where the ribbons from the knot of velvet brushed her back.

"My Love, you started without me? For shame. How shall I punish you?"

Her breath quickened. Her punishment had started! Knowing what those elegant hands were capable of, and unable to see how they explored and excited her to ever more passion was punishment enough. As her tormentor well knew.

"You were late My Lord, the play started on time, alas without your attendance."

A soft laugh greeted her remark. "Ah Mione-mine. I would be lost without you in my life. Shall I begin act two?"

Oh if it so pleases you, and three, four and five. However, never would she allow her eagerness to show.

"As you wish my Lord. Does it please you to leave me so hampered, that I cannot observe?"

She could almost hear his pondering, before... "Ah, I think so. Perchance you imagine and feel my Love."

She pouted although her heart thundered and her arousal increased with thoughts of further intimacies to be experienced. A taut male clothed body was tight up against her back, a rock hard cock pressed tight against her rear. Hermione had to curb her impatience to wriggle ever closer to that exciting appendage. She knew her control would excite him even further. As it did. She held her hands loosely by her sides, not moving them behind her to touch and caress as she desired to do with ever increasing intent.

"Ah Mione-mine." It was a growl of frustration. "You so do arouse me to such a degree I fear I may not be able to hold back to give you the satisfaction you deserve."

"Say you so, My Lord? That is something I cannot believe, your control is legendary, your stamina ever more so. I cannot believe you have ever come without intending to." She felt his frustration and rejoiced.

A sudden hard slap on her rear added to her jubilation. The sting, the soothing hand that followed, the way it swept aside the silk covering of her gown, before elegant fingers traced around her anus, made her draw breath. She heard the soft sibilated, "Ah, yes." As she was spun around full circle, hands caressing as they spun her, her nipples, her breasts, her pussy, all fondled as they were skimmed and swept over. She could feel the brush of fingers on her sensitized skin as the ties across her front were loosened. Regardless, her arse was caressed, her silks slithering gently over her sensitized body.

A thought drifted into her mind, took hold and made her act. How could one man’s hands be in so many places at once? Impossible! Firmly she took hold of the two hands at her ties, and held fast, still feeling those that were softly stroking her arse. How dare she be used so.

Guest Author Renee Vickers

2011-12-18T17:48:00.000-08:00

Please join me in welcoming Renee Vickers to my blog today.

Every writer has their own methods and techniques for their craft. Authors of old scribed on parchment, more recent word crafters banged their ideas out on typewriters and scribbled in notebooks. The progress of modern technology has provided writers with more options than ever before at our fingertips. And with all of these options it could take days months or years to find just the right mix. So I’d like to talk today about some of the things that have worked for me.

Back in my day (wow, I sound like I’m old, don’t I) the PC was new, slow and difficult to get. So when I first began writing I used a lined notebook like everyone else. This was fine for me when I was writing as a whimsical hobby, but was totally insufficient when I got the notion to be serious about this craft. Yeah, I still tote a notebook around when I go off the grid or when I’m away from my computer, but just to jot down ideas and thoughts and not to write a story. (Napkins, paper towels, and yes toilet paper has been known to be kidnapped at the hands of my muse before when nothing else was available.)

Jotting notes aside, I utilize several programs to keep me happy and somewhat sane. Here’s a rundown:

Microsoft OneNote (http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/onenote/) from Microsoft Office. Here is a digital notebook to drool over. I’ve tried other programs, both free and paid, but this one works the best for me. It’s set up like a note book, with sections and tabs to keep everything all neat and organized, but it goes even further than just that. Not only am I able to write down story notes, scenes, character sketches, and ramblings, but I can pull all of my internet research in by pasting it and it notes the website and date where it was pulled, and it allows me to pull in pictures that I can use for my stories. And because it’s a MS Office program I can pull in tables and graphs and a bevy of other compatible features available through MS Office. As a side note, my pops, who’s a techno-geek and knows about programs well before I do, went wild for this when I showed him. It says a lot to me when he’s impressed. This program is included in the Microsoft Office 2007 suite and later but you can also purchase it individually.

Microsoft Word, of course, but that’s a given.

Write or Die (http://writeordie.com/labels/write-or-die.html) by Dr. Wicked is a great program for those of us who have a nasty affliction of editing while writing. When they say it “puts the prod in productivity” they’re not kidding. This program has various settings to kick your butt in high gear to get your numbers up. Anything from a gentle reminder should you go too long thinking about what to say (or being distracted by whatnots) to Kamekazi mode which comes out and does everything but bitch slaps you for slacking. This program is very inexpensive at $10 for the desktop version, and even offers a free online version.

The last one that I want to talk about is AutoCrit (http://www.autocrit.com/index.php) which is an editing tool that, though I’ve only been recently introduced to it, I don’t know how I lived without it before. This program is one that I think every writer should consider. It allows you to paste up to 8,000 words at a time. Once you put in what you’d like it analyzes your work for things like repetition and redundancy, word usage, cliché’s, and many, many others. Seriously worth every penny if you ask me.

These are just my favorites. I’ve tried out lots of programs, especially free and inexpensive ones, to find the ones that work for me. What are your favorite programs or software? What gets you working well and keeps you on track?

Raven, thank you so much for hosting me today!

You're most welcome Renee :-)

I’d like to leave you and your readers an excerpt on my debut release Sly’s Surrender

Jake had been waiting on his barstool for an hour already and had started to lose patience with his date. Oh, he knew she’d come eventually, she always did. Even with knowing Sly’s usual M.O., he never failed to show up on time, because he knew the one time he decided to be late would be the one time she’d be on time. He sighed and checked his watch again. How much longer would he have to wait?

He called Tony over with a hasty jerk of his hand. The bartender rolled his eyes and shook his head. Tony was a man in his mid-fifties with gray hair—what was left of it. He wore a white dress shirt under a black vest. The only thing he was missing was the black armband reminiscent of the style at the turn of the twentieth century. Sly told him once that Tony had been tending bar there for thirty years, which could explain his gruff attitude. Jake never had any problems with the old man but thought he had a funny way of treating paying customers. After a minute or two, Tony begrudgingly set a fresh glass of soda on a clean little napkin and sternly eyed his teetotaler.

“Hope she’s worth it, boy,” he said with a grunt and a little too much emphasis on boy, as far as Jake was concerned. Jake watched the back of the bartender’s shiny head as he turned to tend to his more lucrative patrons.

He sighed again and glanced at the door. Still no Sly. Yeah, she was worth it, but it didn’t mean he had to enjoy complying with all her demands. Abstaining from drink was one of them. He had to admit that her reasoning was sound; how could she be in control if he was drunk? And, of course, waiting for her late ass all the time was another.

The more Jake thought about her controlling nature, the more agitated he grew. Why the hell did he subject himself to this . . . this . . . her control? It’s not right that she makes me jump through all of these ridiculous hoops, he thought as he glanced at Tony, who, simultaneously, gave him another disgusted look and shook his head. Jake’s blood boiled. That’s it, Jake thought, I’m not going to take this anymore.

“Hey, sexy.” Sly’s smooth voice purred behind Jake, just as her fingertip caressed from his chin to his jaw in one long motion, ending up just behind his ear. Shivers ant-marched down Jake’s body. In that instant, Jake knew. This is why. All the anger, indignation, and embarrassment fled his mind as she wrapped an arm over his shoulder and down his chest. As her hot breath caressed his neck, her honeyed voice flooded his mind. “I hope you haven’t been waiting too long.”

It took everything he had not to swallow, to show no outward reaction to what she was doing to him with these miniscule teases. This was just another game to her. She’d make him wait until he’d be ready to walk out, until he was so mad he couldn’t stand it, and then she’d show up, making him switch gears. Just like that. He shot a quick glance at Tony, who watched this dance out of the corner of his eyes, pretending like he was too busy toweling off a pristine glass to notice.

When Sly’s tongue flicked Jake’s thick, silver-hoop earring, he lost what small shred of control he had, albeit for a fraction of a second. He could feel her smile as her cheek rested against his neck. A prickling flash of anger growled in some dark recess of his mind.

She moved to half-lean, half-sit on the vacant stool next to him, and he had to strangle a threatening gasp. If he hadn’t, his body would have given away just how badly he wanted her. This was a high-stakes game, and so far, the house was winning.

Sly wore a tight black corset. Though no doubt made of the finest and most sturdy materials, the bone-rib garment threatened to break under the flood pressure of her ample bosom. It must have been a custom piece because it slithered down her slim waist with precision. No department wares could hope to cope with a curvy form such as hers. He noticed the striking color contrast as the thick, black material lay against her flawless, smooth, ivory-colored skin.

As his sight drew down, he soaked in just how short her layered black and burgundy diaphanous skirt was. She couldn’t sit down without flashing her all to the world. Jake gulped, carelessly abandoning any desire to restrain himself. Seeing his reaction, Sly barked a throaty laugh. He refused to look up until he saw his favorite pair of strappy, black, four-inch stiletto heels. When he came up for breath he found her glossy crimson-colored lips snaking a Cheshire pattern across her gleaming teeth and humor glistening in her hazel eyes. Oh, how she loves this game.

Buy Link: https://www.nobleromance.com/Books/364/Sly%27s-Surrender

Blog: http://museampoule.wordpress.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muse.ampoule

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/MuSeAmpouLe

self promotion, or over promotion?

2011-12-13T07:33:00.000-08:00

A while ago I read an article about self promotion. Now for the life of me I can't remember who wrote it or where it was. but the author was posing the question when does self promotion became over promotion, irritating and ultimately self-defeating?

It set me wondering. I am not the world's best at promoting my books, I know that. Perhaps I'm too laid back, and don't 'blow my own trumpet enough'? Or have I got it just right? i've no idea.

However, thinking about that article, can you over promote? Do you wonder as the author did, that if someone goes on and on about their work, they either doubt themselves, or it's not good enough to stand up on it's own merit?

Or is it the other side of the coin, the author is so proud they want everyone to know about their work, and are making sure they do?

How do you feel? Do you groan and think oh no not again when, a post, blog or tweet is about the same book, over and over again? Make you not want to go there? Or is it the opposite and it encourages you to go and find the book, buy it and read it?

I suspect there's no right or wrong answer here. It's all down to personal preference.

So?????

my offering...This Weekend's Dirty Dozen

2011-12-09T02:47:00.000-08:00

From Wallflower's don't Wilt...

"So now," Bella finished. "We...er...?"

"Fuck?"

"Exactly." Bella giggled. "I found it most amusing when Ivo thought nothing of how we make each other feel."

She was excited and apprehensive regarding the rest of the day, and knew Serena felt the same. At that moment, though, nothing worried her except being held by Serena, mouths fusing, tongues meeting, feeling their hands on each other's bodies, using fingers to explore, entering and dancing.

Serena lifted her head. "Undress for me, Bel. Take your night rail off, show yourself to me. Let me feast my eyes one more time before we are able to do so together, in our own home."

Arabella nodded, pulling the thin shift over her head. Her breasts stood proud, their dark, dusky tips alert, begging for attention. Serena licked and tweaked each in turn.

"Oh, so good, my love."

NINE FOR THE WEEK. with Xandra James

2011-12-04T21:05:00.000-08:00

The (nearly) Naughty Nine with Xandra James

So today, we welcome Xandra to nine for he week. And start the week with a paranormal twist!

Hi Xandra, Welcome to Raven's Nine for the Weekend. Glad you could drop by.

Q We'll get this one over first, tell us a little bit about yourself.

A Hi Raven, thanks for having me here today! A bit about me, okay… I'm 33, married with cats, and have boxes and boxes of books that I hope one day to get bookshelves for (the boxes are normal, right?). I dislike celery and beef hula-hoop crisps intensely and will try every excuse under the moon to get out of doing the housework… just ask my long suffering hubby! I write paranormal romance and urban fantasy, and my first ever release – a novella called Reluctant Revenge -- is out with Pink Petal Books on December 1^st

Q Thanks, now we can probe a bit more. What are you writing at the moment? Going to share any of it with us? (I know that's really two questions, but hey we will call it a and b)

A Well I've just finished writing a paranormal short story that had me pulling my hair out. I love writing novellas but this was my first foray into short stories and it was like giving me a huge box of chocolates and then telling me I could only eat three. It was hard. Thankfully, my muse (okay, it was the coffee) helped me get through it and I finished the first draft a few days ago.

The draft is pretty rough and it'll make me cringe if I share so I'll wet your appetite with a short excerpt from my upcoming release, Reluctant Revenge. I told you it was out soon, right? December 1^st… ;)

The cracking of his neck was the only sound he made in the darkness as he reined in his natural impulses and took another deep breath, calm spreading slow and easy through his mind but not his body. No, his body was on high alert and waiting.

Minutes ticked by as he watched the door, his patience at an all time low. The creature he was waiting for finally walked back out thirty minutes later and moved across to the small undercover smoking pit. Alone, the Strix lit a cigarette and inhaled deeply. A habit most creatures relished, given their life expectancy and moon healing abilities. Jeremiah – the self professed lady killer Strix – stood silently, unaware he was being watched.

This would be Nash’s only opportunity. Time had run out for this little punk and he was sick of looking at Jeremiah's pretty face.

He stepped out of the shadows, keeping his head bent low but his eyes sharp, Jeremiah his constant target. As a trained Enforcer he would use any advantage he had, and right now the hybrid blood running through his veins helped him to stealthily approach and subdue.

The cigarette was left to burn on the ground, the only sign someone had been there as Nash retreated back to his hiding place with his prey.

Shadow covered him once more with the wriggling Strix silently choking under the strain of his hold. The Strix was no match for Nash's unusual hybrid blood, his strength and power over-powering the young creature.

Nash watched the club door and the close vicinity. No one had seen him and no one was looking for the person in his arms. Part one of his mission was complete.

Jeremiah strained against the hold as he was lowered to the ground, Nash’s bicep squeezed at its throat. The fight was leaving the creature as it used its remaining energy on scraping and scratching at his arm with its extended nails, but Nash didn’t release his hold until the body sagged some more. Dropping it the last few feet to ground, Nash kicked him, then followed him down with a knee resting on his chest, hand at his throat.

"You picked up the wrong woman this time my friend." Nash pulled the sharpened stake out of the messenger bag tucked around his neck and shoulder and held it against Strix flesh. Its eyes widened as realisation finally struck. He obviously wasn’t the quickest flesh-eater in town.

"I was under instructions. I have no interest … you can have her--"

The stake smashed down into Jeremiah’s chest with a mortal wound six inches deep. Nash wasn’t sure whether his lightning quick reaction was more that the Strix's breath had stunk to high hell or the fact that he’d been so quick to give the woman away. He hoped it was the latter.

Oh wow, on my to buy list! So…

Q How long have you been writing?

A Forever. I've always loved books – especially romance books, and I've always 'known' I was going to be a writer, even though it took me until I was 25 to actually finish writing a story! I am the Queen of first chapters it seems and my poor laptop and notebooks are full of them. I actually started writing fiction 'seriously' a little over a year ago. I think time finally caught up with me and I realized it was now or never so I entered New Voices 2010 (the mills & boon competition) and didn't place at all in it. I did meet some of the nicest writers ever though and I guess the rest is history. J

Q What is your favorite genre? To write or read.

A I'll read most romance genre's but I love a fun contemporary author like Janet Evanovich, a quick Mills & Boon read in most any of their lines but mostly I adore reading paranormals full of humour and hot heroes. Kerrelyn Sparks is a must buy author for me.

I love writing paranormal romance most of all I think at the moment. I relish being able to make a character just a little bit weird and wonderful but still make them bow down to that very human emotion of falling in love.

Q Where do you prefer to write? What do you wear? And eat? (OK, I know this is cheating as well, but we need all the gen in our naughty nine)

A I would love to say I have a lovely office, full of books and top of line technology. In reality I usually write on my old laptop, sitting in my lounge, trying to balance my coffee and usually a cat or two. Most often I'll wear a t-shirt and shorts or track-suit bottoms as I don't like to feel restricted. Of course, when I have visitors, I have to actually do my make-up and hair so they don't think I'm a complete slob. And I'm not a big eater when I write. The most important thing to me is having a constant supply of coffee. When I'm in the writing zone, I'll very often forget about everything, including my lovely hot drink…

Q So three things you love

A My family, my books and sweet things J

Q Three you don't

A My family, no wait… okay, err. Bullies, arrogance and spiders.

Q Three things you would like to happen in the next three years? Feel free to add to the three things you don't,

A To keep getting published and to actually improve as a writer, to win the lottery (I can hope, right?) and to be happy and healthy surrounded by those I love. What I don't want to happen, well, the opposite of those things I've just said! Lol.

That's it painless eh? Thanks for dropping by and giving us a peek into your life. Feel free to add any links to blogs websites etc so we can all find out what you are up to.

You can find me on Twitter @xandrajames, Facebook and at my website www.xandrajames.com or at www.thebookbordello.com (where I love to promote fantastic romance books and their authors!).

on life and chocolate

2011-12-02T08:21:00.000-08:00

It's cold. It's been sleeting and raining, I've shut the curtains on the dark, and I've been editing (sort of)
I'm in the lucky position of having one M/S at the proofers. To Please A Lady, to be released by Breathless Press on January 6th
Her'e a wee tease:-

Her tea cup raised to her lips she was about to take her first sip, when Berry, the leader it seemed in all things, Her tea cup raised to her lips she was about to take her first sip, when Berry, the leader it seemed in all things, enquired in a conversational tone, "My, love, what know you of ménages? Where more than two persons indulge and delight in all things arousing together?"

Her reply had been to spray tea across the dainty table, and require her back patted to stop her choking cough!

Eyes streaming she had eventually composed herself well enough to regard both men, with wary eyes.

"Elucidate." She had managed briefly. She had watched as they looked at each other, before back to her. Again it was Berry, the man in grey who spoke.

"We have a capacity of love here, between we three, that is much greater than it’s sum." Hermione was not conversant with the meaning of his statement, therefore waited, one eyebrow raised for him to continue. His shoulders under their form fitting dark grey jacket moved slightly.

"As you know, Ran and I are committed to each other, and will continue to be so. Equally each of us is committed to you, and will also continue to be so. Unless we are mistaken that commitment for you is equaled by a commitment from you?"

"Foresooth, my Lord," She had spoken in a mocking tone, somewhat perturbed by his admissions. "I fear you talk in riddles."

Ran had laughed. "You fear no such thing my Lady, you are fully cognizant with what is being asked of you. However to be specific?"

"Oh" Hermione had purred. "If it so pleases you my Lords, do so with my blessing." She had waited to see how they would phrase their request.

Simply and crudely.

"An it please you Hermione, it would please us for all three to fuck together, in a myriad of ways, discovering all we can do for each other an we do it. What say you?"
To see what she says you'll need to buy the book.

Regarding chocolate? Well I'm editing my next Regency Erotica.
ALMOST ENTENTE CORDIALE is due our in March, also from Breathless Press, and to edit you need chocolate. Also an hourly dose of a certain friends new, very hot story is also guaranteed to spur me on.
Although I'd forgotten just how hot AEC is. I maybe didn't need to light the fire lol.
And to cap it all I have two contemporary novels due out in the new year. So, on a roll and enjoying it!
Back to get more chocolate! and check for my next red hot installment!

NINE FOR THE WEEK. with JACKIE MOORE

2011-11-27T23:10:00.000-08:00

Hi Jackie ( waves)

The (nearly) Naughty Nine with Jackie Moore so today, we welcome Jackie to Nine for the Week,

This weeks naughty nine, have an editorial twist.

Welcome Jackie to Raven's Nine for the Week. Glad you could drop by.

Q We'll get this one over first, tell us a little bit about yourself.

A I’m an educator by day, and an erotica editor by night for Breathless Press.

Q Thanks, now we can probe a bit more. What are you writing at the moment? Going to share any of it with us? (I know thats really two questions, but hey we will call it a and b)

A I do a little writing on the side, but lately, my editor plate runneth over. *cough delicately* But you know that, don’t you, Raven? Oh, wait, and there’s a Part B. I’m currently working on a sci-fi piece that will eventually…er, um, hopefully!...be a trilogy.

Q How long have you been writing?

A I fancy I was writing in utero…

Q What is your favorite genre? To write or read.

A I love me some sex, so the hotter, the better. I typically enjoy paranormal/sci-fi with the historical thrown in there to change up the pace.

Q Where do you prefer to write? What do you wear? And eat? (OK, I know this is cheating as well, but we need all the gen in our naughty nine)

A Honestly, I tend to write more when it’s cold outside, and by turn, drink TONS of Lady Grey tea (splash of milk, spoon of sugar, steeped strong). And I’m usually writing in my notebook while snuggled up on my couch. What do I wear? Well, now, I’m not sure your audience is ready for that little tidbit!! ;) Unless there are some single men out there…God, that was shameless!

Q So three things you love

A history, science, and the word “indicative”.

Q Three you don't

A People who drive EXACTLY the speed limit, people who don’t hold open the door for the person walking in behind them, and my ex. :D Does that count, or is that pretty much a given?

Q Three things you would like to happen in the next three years? Feel free to add to the three things you don't,

A I would like to have my trilogy outlined and ready for submission; I would like my son to love school as much as I did when I first started; and cornily, my own happily-ever-after…for real this time. As for the things that I don’t want to happen: homelessness, joblessness, and heaps of parent-teacher conferences.

That's it painless eh? Well because it is you, we have a little extra- what do you like about editing?

What’s not to love about editing? I love the opportunity to be able to help an author realize his/her dream! Being in at the ground level, from the very beginning, excites me, creates a strong bond between me and the writer. Take you, for instance, Raven. I’ve easily found a great friend and a UK grandmum for my son! It’s all about creating a family, and that’s what being an editor allows me to do. I love you! <3

Thanks for dropping by and giving us a peek into your life. Feel free to add any links to blogs websites etc so we can all find out what you are up to.

www.facebook.com/Editor.Jackie.Moore

The treats are coming fast and (not) furious this week. Here's the Lovely Doris O'Connor...

2011-11-23T03:15:00.000-08:00

So I've allowed (ha that's a laugh, no one allows Doris to do anything she is the boss) Doris to hijack my blog today...

Release Central

Ever had a week so exciting you felt you might literally explode with it all. Well, I just had one of those weeks. Last Wednesday saw the release of my Debut novel Lure of the Blood.

Blurb: Marnie’s decision to finance her law degree by pole dancing awakens her latent sexuality and the mysterious stranger lurking in the shadows sends her libido into overdrive. Attacked on her way home, she wakes up the next morning covered in bruises and with no recollection of what happened. The newspapers are full of a suspected animal attack and Marnie finds herself in her very own twilight zone.

Realising her sexy lurker is a vampire is bad enough, but her boss is the alpha wolf of a pack of shifters? Torn between her attraction to both men and surrounded by danger, she has a decision to make, that will change her life forever.

Available from http://www.evernightpublishing.com/lure-of-the-blood-by-doris-oconnor/

The excitement levels reached fever pitch when I made it into the Top 100 bestselling Kindle Erotica books on Amazon UK and stayed there for a dizzying 48 hours. Let me once again thank everyone who bought it and the great feedback I received so far.

However, it also started a new obsession —constant checking of amazon sales rank.

*rolls eyes at herself*

I think this writing lark may just turn me completely neurotic!

*grin*

No sooner had I recovered from that very exciting couple of days, Saturday saw me signing a contract for my story Saving Hope, part of the anthology Blood Bar Chronicles with my lovely Critique group.

So yet more hopping around in excitement for yours truly.

*grin*

And then Monday say the release of my sexy Swede Sven in Scandinavian Scandal.

Blurb: Sven Larsson, international movie star, is out to repair his scandalous reputation. The last thing he needs is an enticing bundle of curves falling into his arms. However, the instant sexual chemistry he has with Sylvia is hard to ignore . . . .

Sylvia, a young widow and mother of three, knows Sven is everything she doesn’t need in a man. Can she risk giving in to temptation? With the paparazzi breathing down their necks and both of them scarred emotionally by their past demons, will Sven and Sylvia manage to heal each other?

Available from https://www.nobleromance.com/Books/363/Scandanavian-Scandal

I am slowly coming back down from the ceiling, mainly due to the cold, I caught off the baby.

Streaming eyes and nose is such an attractive look, not to mention the thumping headache, and sore throat, which apparently means that all the kids have to play up even more than usual.

So, if you’re thinking that I’m basking in glory, then think again, lol. Nothing quite like having children to keep you firmly grounded in reality! And with that I will sign off, the baby’s nappy needs changing, but before I go, have a little hot excerpt from Scandinavian Scandal, because I know Raven is rather fond of him…

Half an hour later, she was searching for the man in her garden, squinting in the sun, wondering why on earth Mrs. Robinson was hanging over the fence with a big grin on her face.

"Pssst Sylvia, there you are."

She rolled her eyes at her neighbour's hushed whispers. What now? And where in the world was Sven? She got her answer when she stepped off her decking and rounded the corner, following Jo's excited gesticulations. Her stomach dropped to her boots, all the air leaving her lungs in one big whoosh.

Now, wasn't that a sight for sore eyes?

A sentiment clearly echoed by Mrs. Robinson, whose theatrical whispers Sylvia could barely hear over the pounding of her own heart. Pure need consumed into her, and she had to remind herself to breathe.

"I am definitely making him the hero in my next book, look at those abs and those itty bitty shorts. Doesn't leave much to the imagination, you lucky thing you. Oh, be still my beating heart. This was so worth climbing up this ladder."

Sylvia could only agree. Stripped to the waist, bare feet digging into the grass, Sven's face was a study in concentration as his big body moved in the graceful martial art of Kata. The fine sheen of perspiration only served to emphasize the play of muscles on his torso as he worked his body in the strict discipline, his breath whooshing in and out in controlled grunts.

She bit her lip to stop herself from moaning. Jo's excited chatter did not register at all, as she watched him move in slow circles, straightening in and out of tight squats, his arms moving in the intricate dance the martial art required. With one last slow exhale, he straightened his long frame and opening his eyes looked straight at her with a toe curling lazy smile that had her biting down harder on her lip, as her whole body went up in flames.

* * * * *

Damn, she looked hot. Grabbing his T-shirt off the floor, he used it to wipe the sweat off his brow and tucked it into the waistband of his shorts to hide his body's immediate reaction to seeing Sylvia watching him.

He had known the minute she had entered the garden, the slight breeze sending her scent towards him, his body recognising and reacting to his mate on a purely subliminal basis. Walking slowly towards her, he was glad for the cover of the tee as the hot ache of desire shot through him. The sun was behind her, making her little sun dress transparent, and he let his gaze travel over the curve of her hips, down her long, slender legs to the bare toes curled into the grass. Back up over the slight indent of her waist, he let his eyes rest on the swell of her rapidly moving breasts, her nipples puckering under his gaze before he skimmed her face, finally settling on the plump bottom lip she was biting down on hard enough to draw blood.

"Hej."

"Hi."

The need in that breathy voice zoomed straight to his cock and not caring about her now sighing neighbour, he pulled her flush against him. Her desire soaked eyes widened further. He noticed with a smile of pure male satisfaction, as he lifted her slightly to grind his raging erection into her core. Taking her lip between his teeth, he caught her moan of surrender in his mouth and deepened the kiss. Damn, he'd missed her responsiveness, the way her body moulded into his as though they were made for each other and the way she made him forget everything but this immediate need to possess, to brand, to make her his. Lifting his head slightly, he scanned her flushed face, his gut clenching at the trust he saw in her eyes, as they fluttered open, before her eyes darted sideways and he groaned at her immediate withdrawal.

Forcing himself to let her go, he turned towards the fence where her neighbour was still dangling at a precarious angle.

"Show is over Mrs. R, haven't you got a book to write?"

"Ohh, yes, Sven dear, and boy have I got a plot line and scenes in my mind. Your buns are to die for, might even encourage me to take up, er, baking . . . ."

Sylvia's embarrassed laugh into his shoulder had him rolling his own eyes at the woman, who gave his body one last bold appraisal before she had the good grace to make herself scarce.

"I dread to think what she'll put in that book."

"Hmm, I'll have to make sure to read it, vackra. Now where were we?"

He sucked his breath in when her hands ran over his chest, her eyes connecting with his. He had been so goddamned worried about her when she had collapsed at the school, her breathing too shallow and laboured and her whole body on fire. She had been too pale and listless, and hearing from that useless doc that it was just a touch of flu had almost sent him over the edge. It had been Timmy's worried little voice asking what was wrong with Mummy that had gotten through the red mist of his anger, and he had done his best to reassure Hard Head that mummy would be just fine. She had to be, she was too damned important to the little man. Sitting up with her, watching her thrash about, coaxing her to eat sips of his mother's recipe chicken brew, his relief had been immeasurable when her fever had finally broken, and he hadn't dared to examine his own feelings too closely.

He still didn't, what he felt for the woman trembling with need in his arms was too complicated and too scary to think about. Grabbing her cute arse with a growl, he simply picked her up and carried her inside. Her legs going round his waist had his own knees trembling, and they crashed through the kitchen and into the hallway before he dropped her on the stairs with a muffled curse.

"Jeez baby, I need to taste you now. I can't wait."

She smiled in answer and shifted herself higher up the stairs. She pulled her dress up, so that her pussy was right in front of his face and opened her thighs wide. The sweet smell of her arousal in the air was his complete undoing. Yanking the elastic of her knickers down, she helped him by lifting her bum and kicking the scrap of material away. Her soft moans urged him on as he clamped his hands on her thighs to spread her wide and he buried his face in her drenched folds.

She grabbed his hair holding him there her hips arching into his face, as he tasted her sweet essence. He lapped her up, making her whimper as her pussy clenched around him. The ache in his own cock became unbearable as he suckled her engorged clit into submission.

"Sven, please . . . I"

Her words barely recognisable, she pulled on his hair and he lifted his head to see her passion filled eyes look down on him. Her hips bucked again, when he pushed two fingers into her drenched core.

"So wet, baby, so ready, come for me."

"No, please, Sven I need you inside me . . . please . . . oh god, I'm so close . . . Sven."

He watched her as she came apart noisily, her breath coming in short gasps, her whole body shaking, her pussy clenching round his fingers, a rosy flush spreading all across her body.

"You're so beautiful, I can't get enough of you. Mine all mine," and bunching her dress up further he let his lips trail over her tummy. His teeth grazed the stud in her bellybutton, pulling slightly and he smiled at her gasp of surprise. His hands travelled further up bunching that dress higher until he could bare her breasts. He took one pert nipple in-between his teeth and suckled the tip until she was writhing under him again.

"Sven, please I want your cock inside me now."

Releasing that nipple with a pop, he groaned his frustration into her soft flesh as his shorts went sticky with the release of precum. Fuck it, he was not going to shoot his load in his shorts at her whispered words. The rip of foil brought his head up in surprise. She pushed him off her until their roles were reversed and it was his arse resting on the stairs. She rolled the condom onto his cock with trembling hands.

His hands went in her hair, and affection welled up at the impish smile she gave him, throwing the empty wrapper over her shoulder.

"The dress has pockets; you're not the only one who comes prepared Mister."

His answering laugh made her smile deepen.

"I do love a practical woman." The sensation of her sliding her wet folds over him made any conscious thought leave his body.

"Hell, baby, you'll be the death of me."

Sensation overwhelmed him as she began to move. Her internal muscles gripped and stroked him. Her soft moans mingled with his harsh groans, their movements growing ever more urgent. With one final thrust he spilled himself deep inside her, before flipping her over. Catching her gasp of surprise in his mouth, his thumb found her clit. With a few quick flips he sent her too over that sweet edge. Her startled eyes connected with his and his heart soared at what he saw in their depths.