Goddesses of Storytelling

Blatant Promotion

2012-01-20T11:02:00.002-05:00

My latest in the Virtual Seduction series releases on Valentine's Day. Hope this blurb will whet your appetite and you'll join Jynx and Kemen as they try to save three galaxies and fall in love.

February 14, 3000: The destruction of the universe is at hand, unless their burning passion can grow into trust... and love.

Traveling through space to a secret rendezvous point, Venusian Princess Jynx can't help but dream of the sexy prince she has been ordered to negotiate a treaty with and to marry. The Triangulum Prince Kemen is fascinated by the beautiful princess, but he is keeping a secret that threatens their galaxies' existence.

Their negotiations with each other and with the third galaxy believed to be a threat don't seem to be going anywhere, but Jynx and Kemen's passion builds to peaks of ecstasy in dreams and in person. But their shared nightmares portend complete annihilation.

Even with destruction looming, on the most romantic day in the universe, what can a man give a woman who has everything?

Research! Because someone must...go to France!

2012-01-17T00:04:00.011-05:00

From collection at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX

I am planning a new book. And the research delights me.
I've done all the "book learning" about it and sat in far too many dusty libraries. At Walter Reed Army Medical Center. At the National Archives in Washington. At Carlysle Barracks in Carlysle, PA. I've also gone to The Imperial War Museum in London and gathered invaluable experience.
In all these wonderful places, I've read letters and reports. I've looked at old old photos. Catalogued them.
Learned about medical practices during wartime.
And now I am prepping for my last bit of research.
A FIELD TRIP!
To France!
So excited I cannot stand myself.
But yes, I am going to France for 3 weeks to take pictures, visit battlefields and learn the terrain. Literally.
I have lists, cross referenced with facts, ready to be woven into an accurately portrayed novel.
In the 1980s, I wrote this book and allllllllmost published it. Made a lot of people happy, astonished and interested. So much so that these people remember this book VIVIDLY.
Now, after more than sixty published novels and novellas, I am a much better writer and this time, when I finish this book, I know there will be an audience for it.
"War Horse" tells me so. "Downton Abbey" does, too. I am certain there will be more pointing to the fact that the public will now see the first World War as a subject that bears honest scrutiny and that it should be studied for what it tells us about ourselves, good and bad.
And what of my novel?
The time period? 1917-1918.
The place? America and in France with the AEF, American Expeditionary Forces.
The subject my friends cannot forget? A woman's view of World War I.

Well, this blog is pretty well finished...

2012-01-15T02:53:00.000-05:00

It's time to mosey on into the sunset...this blog, that is.

When nearly thirty authors dwindle down to three or so, it's time to disband a co-op blog, I think. So goodbye, my friends.

Take care, and if any of you decide to continue here, good luck.

Fran Lee

Hope your Christmas was wonderful!

2011-12-26T00:01:00.056-05:00

Uncertainly Yours

is now available over at Ellora's Cave!

Visit my book page for the blurb and the excerpt. Since this is a PG-13 blog, I don't want to shock any readers. LOL!

The New Year is coming quickly and I have made my resolutions...submit at least one book every two months...get my lazy fanny busy. I have been so buried in other things, I have neglected my writing. Time to get busy.

I am wondering, dear friends, why we are continuing this blog. Only 35 posts have been left here in the entire year 2011. So sad! No one bothers to come over and comment or read other author's posts. I have read all of the comments that have been left, and have deleted many of them that have nothing to do with the post, but have been advertisements left as "comments" by companies wanting to promote their own products...which have absolutely nothing to do with romance. Sigh.

After this post, I am removing myself from membership on this blog group. I am sorry, but there is so little interest in it, and we get NO exposure from it (except an occasional spammer) it appears to be of no value anymore. Dee, Cerise, and those who have bothered to come and post, I salute you. Contact me if you are truly interested in continuing to post here.

Hugs, and Happy Holidays!

Fran Lee

http://www.franleeromance.com

Revisions Rock

2011-12-20T10:28:00.003-05:00

They do—at least according to Kelli Gwen, inspirational romance writer and Sacramento Valley Rose chapter member.

Today I stood at the beginning of that rocky path—massive revisions to a contracted manuscript that has been waiting for months. I wasn’t avoiding the task. My editor and I had agreed to leave it alone until after the holidays. She had a pile of manuscripts to edit. I had a couple of stories to write for another publisher, so the delay worked for both of us.

Truth is, I started the revisions several months ago. Truth is, I had to fight myself not to focus on them, throw myself into them wholeheartedly. Discipline—which I usually lack—kept me intent on where I needed to be—on those two other stories.

Now…A prologue is drafted and I’m actually feeling the same anticipation, the same joy as when I wrote the story the first time.

But first… Yep, that second story I wrote for another publisher needs revisions before I can send it off. Hopefully, I can keep my enthusiasm for that one as I have for the one still sitting here…waiting.

The wonderful cover is for my December 15, 2011 release from eXtasy Books. It has a holiday there if you want a hot holiday gift for your significant other. Drop by my website to read an excerpt: deebrice.com.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Dee Brice

Erotic Fantasies Where Nothing is Forbidden

Christmas Stories for .99

2011-12-14T05:24:00.000-05:00

Available on Kindle and Barnes and Noble for your holiday fun! Only .99

Blurb:
Nick has fought his attraction to Emily since the summer. Work and other commitments have kept him from pursuing a relationship. Christmas is upon them and Nick finds he has free time on his hands. He devices a little plan to get her sexy body prepared for what he hopes will be a night of passion she’ll never forget.

Someone is sending Emily erotic toys. The naughty notes attached are charging her dormant body to life with promises of red hot sex. She’s not sure who her secret Santa is, but if he’s truly following the Twelve Days of Christmas she’s about to find out.

Will Emily succumb to this Naughty St. Nick?

Excerpt:

Emily pattered over to the front door. She peered through the peephole.

"Hmmm, I swear I heard the doorbell." She threw opened the door against the bitter cold of the winter storm brewing outside. Shivering, she bent over the threshold and glanced in both directions. Her skin pebbled from the snowflakes landing on her bare arms.

"Strange, I know the doorbell rang." She was about to close the door when she noticed a small brown box, sitting off to the right.

Intrigued, she placed a sock covered foot into the icy snow and retrieved the box. She quickly slammed the door and hurried back to her blanket on the couch. She nestled under the red fuzzy blanket. Turning the box in her hands she looked for an addressee.

"Nothing." She couldn’t help but wonder if it were meant for her or if someone left it on her doorstep mistakenly. She shook the box. Something bounced around inside.
Unable to fight her curiosity any longer she tore open the package. There inside was a mistletoe-colored finger butt plug, with little white snowmen on it. Tingling sensations warmed her body straight down to her core. Thoughts of teasing the rim of her ass with the humming vibrator tantalized her.

She needed to know who sent it. Digging deeper into the box she searched for a card or anything cluing her in to who the sender was. She found a tiny note card that read:

On the first day of Christmas my true love gave me to, one butt plug a hummin’.

Emily thought she’d explode into orgasm right then and there. The idea of someone wanting to charge her ass to life enthralled her. Filled with an arousal that ran deep, Emily knew she had to pleasure herself.

Heat from the flames crackling in the fireplace warmed her chilled body, smoothing her skin. The television blared in the background, but Emily tuned it out. She’d been watching a movie about a money heist on a train or something crazy. It hadn’t held her attention. Turning the plug over in her hands, she found something that gripped her total attention. She couldn’t imagine who would send her something so erotic.

Settling into the pillow she closed her eyes and pictured the guy from Six A, as the bearer of her gift. His wavy blond hair and those piercing green eyes charged her body. She’d fantasized about him a few times. Oh who was she kidding she masturbated to the image of his shit eating grin too many times to count.

Emily longed to run her hand over his taunt abs. She wanted to trace a finger along the vee that disappeared below the trim of his pants to see if it went down to his cock, which she knew would be large and bulging. It seemed hard to believe she’d been drooling over him since summer.

After she witnessed his body in scant clothing she wanted a piece of him.

Blurb:

Meg Trainor has one wish for Christmas every year: Two men who will fulfill all her fantasies.

Santa's in a giving mood this year.

Brothers and co-owners of Turquoise Toys, Brad and Shane Griffin will give her a Christmas she'll never forget.

SPAMMERS...PLEASE NOTE...

2011-11-26T00:01:00.018-05:00

Please note...

This blog site is for the Goddesses of Storytelling, and it is mainly here to allow a group of authors to drop in a note about their latest book, book signings, or what-have-you.

I don't come over here as often as I should, but yesterday when I visited, I read the comments as I always do...and I was amazed at how many people "drop by" this blog to put advertisements for their own sites or products instead of "comments" about the author's post.

So, to those of you who have blatantly abused this blog by sticking advertisements for products, other websites, or what-have-you in the comments, you have been reported to Google for spamming.

I wonder how you would react if someone came over to your website and spammed your readers with ads and other garbage?

Please do not be that rude or inconsiderate in the future.

Your actions will be reported as spam.

Oh...and I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Just Because

2011-11-20T15:14:00.002-05:00

The calendar says it's November 20. It's cool here in northern California, but not cold thanks to the cloud cover. I think we're expecting more rain to match what we had last night.

My rose bushes are still blooming. Go figure.

Dee Brice

Erotic Fantasies Where Nothing is Forbidden.

Flash Fiction? Really?

2011-11-17T00:42:00.035-05:00

FF--really short shorts--seems to be the new IN type of read.
Intriguing concept, I thought when I first read about them, but then, I ask myself what is the difference between this and...say, a cover blurb? Or a well-written synopsis. (snorting here.)
I have to try one just to teach myself that it is possible and...drum roll, entertaining!
Having taught myself by Doing for decades in this biz, I imagine learning to write FF will be no different. But then, how to market these gems?
Write a bunch of them and turn them into a longer work to sell as an antho?
Use them as teasers to bring people in to your novellas and actually pay you for your golden words?
That concept, I like, except for one tiny (read, HUGE) problem. PIRATES.
Grinding teeth.
These criminals abound. I alternate between crash search and seize--and loading my Sig Sauer, running around the house yelling "Give me a pirate, matey!"

What's in your computer? Any FF? And what do you do with those stories that might gratify you and your bank account?

Passion

2011-10-21T12:35:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, October 15^th, my husband and I attended a memorial service for a dear friend. We met Boots Martin in 1973 through Stagedoor Comedy Playhouse, where I had the joy of working with her in many plays and replacing her in several others when she was busy doing other shows.

Everyone who spoke about Boots talked about her passion for theater. It didn’t matter how small or how large the role, Boots always brought her considerable arsenal of talent—her passion—with her.

Which made me think about why we writers keep writing—despite rejections, poor or nonexistent reviews and even when confronted by the terror of writer’s block. It’s our passion for the written word; the passion that demands we tell the story; the passion for the characters who compel us to tell about their successes and failures, their goodness and flaws, their hates and—above all—their loves. About their abiding passion for life and for each other.

Many years before I sold my first novel, Boots suffered through editing handwritten manuscripts, her edits also handwritten. Looking back, I wonder who had the harder time deciphering those scribblings. Boots kept reading and acting. I kept writing—all because we shared a passion for what we do, for what makes us who we are.

I miss you, Bootsie, more than words can say.

Love,

Dee

Ham and travel.

2011-10-17T00:09:00.015-05:00

Say what?
This pix of sooooo many hams?
The Boqueria off Las Ramblas in central Barcelona!
Jamon, anyone? Iberico ham, cured to a melt-in-your mouth savory delight.
Expensive? As you can see from the signs, ABsolutely!
One of the many delights of travel is getting to taste the delicacies of other countries.
And since I like to eat....
What did I partake of in happy, hot Barcelona?
Anchovies. Fresh. NOT like those we get in the bottle or can. Sweet, crisp, large and used in everything.
Clams. You could tell these tiny shell-dwellers had come from the sea just hundreds of feet away that morning.
Lobster! Succulent.
Paella. Savory broth with prawns and clams and sausage, then done to a fine point.
CHOCOLATE! So many chocolatierias in Barcelona mean you could re-name the city! The finest I tasted were right around the corner from the Picasso Museum, where a 5" diameter and 1/2" thick disk (NOT kidding!) of luscious stuff cost 2 Euro. oh. be. still. my. heart. And it came in white, dark and milk chocolate, with or without almonds, walnuts, chocolate chips. I salivate to tell you.
And for 2.4 Euro you had a similar selection of truffles, filled with alternative chocolate creams.
Just as yummy were the luscious caramels made by the monks atop Mount Serrat. Making candy, aside from their publishing business, is how the Benedictine monks support their more than 1000-year-old monastery compound. Pictures of those to come!
And in the meantime, if you look for a new goody to read, do try my latest, LADY STARLING'S STOCKINGS, 99 Cents in Kindle http://tinyurl.com/3orc36e , Smashwords

and AllRomanceebooks.com at http://tinyurl.com/3h2b4b3

EPIC Awards Finalist

2011-09-26T00:01:00.001-05:00

Woman on Fire

is one of the finalists for Contemporary Romance!

It is wonderful to be a finalist in this competition...was one last year, but didn't win...so many fabulous books were entered! At least this year I am not up against any of my friend in this category, but the competition is gonna be tough.

On another note, I will be flying to Akron Ohio for the third annual Romanticon convention. I Plan to party til I drop and enjoy every single minute! If you are coming to Romanticon, look me up. We can get together for lunch or gather in a pal's room and have a blast.

I'm taking my laptop with me, so I will be taking loads of photos and uploading them to my website.

Have a wonderful end of September!

Hugs!

Fran Lee
http://www.franleeromance.com

Musings

2011-09-19T17:05:00.003-05:00

Lots of interesting goings on in the Brice household.

DH and I attended the Erotic Authors Association’s first annual convention in Sin City (Las Vegas, NV). Met lots of other erotic authors and hooked up with Tina Haveman, Publisher of eXtasy Books (EB) and Kelli Collins, Editor-in-Chief at Ellora’s Cave (EC. Passed out trading cards to a lot of people, including three young women celebrating one’s upcoming wedding and another group who were attending a belly dancing convention. Fun people!

On the not so much fun side (although I didn’t experience it myself) other EAA attendees heard the usual derogatory remarks from people who neither read nor appreciate our efforts. Too bad these folks can’t take our mothers’ advice: If you can’t say something nice, keep your damn trap shut!

On a happier note, I have an EB novel—Her Virtual Ecstasy—that will release on October 1, 2011. Another EB novel—Her Virtual Frenzy—is under construction and the Muse is behaving like an angel (If I’m mixing my deities, sorry.) so I’m on target to make the December 15, 2011 release date. This one has a touch of holiday cheer I hope you’ll enjoy, Irisa, my heroine, is definitely enjoying all three lovers. His Virtual Gift is also under construction—targeted for release on Valentine’s Day, 2012.

And then I wrote—well, I have two other novels at EC. It Takes a Thief (formerly titled Emerald) is awaiting edits. Temptress of Time (once titled That Other Diane) needs massive rewrites, but Kelli’s busy with other authors, so I can get my other commitments out of the way before I tackle ToT. Whew!

DH has been bitten by the Muse. Has complete one ms he hopes to submit to EC—once he cleans up the punctuation issues I refuse to do for him. Cruel? Yes! But I already have a full plate. He’s also busy working on a second novel.

For my part, I’m glad he has something to keep him out of my hair—er, keep him occupied. In the meantime, I’m working my fingers to the bone and emptying ink pens at an alarming rate.

The above cover is for my October 1, 2011 release. Stop by my website for a blurb and excerpt. Linger for a look at what else is happening.

Dee Brice

Erotic Fantasies Where Nothing is Forbideen

History and the movies?

2011-09-17T00:01:00.006-05:00

As a professionally trained historian (with grad degree in the Old Stuff), I love to write historical fiction and read it.

Recently, a professor of American history gave a big slam on prime time TV to the new movie, THE HELP. Her critique was, IMHO, the one of the "More Knowledgeable Academician" telling the lowly world how inaccurate, improper and downright disgraceful the film was to have portrayed that time and place and characters with joy, humor or compassion. Her conclusion was that the film is a gross glossing over of the truth.

Now, first, I must tell you, I read this book months ago. Loved it for its humor, compassion and finely drawn characters. Most of all, I loved it for its portrayal of the times and the milieu. I lived through that time and I remember it well. And while I lived in a fully integrated city and went to public school in one, I also went to college with women (and men) from the Deep South. I know what my friends thought and how they lived. I listened to them as we watched riots and hosings, the aftermath of the murder of Medgar Evers and Dr. King. I visited the South with my friends, met their parents and siblings. And while I am not a professional historian of slavery in America, I can say all of the following with certitude:

1. No book, non-fiction or fiction, can portray the total truth of a period or a people.

2. One book, non-fiction or fiction, can explore only one angle, hopefully, well.

3. One author, especially a fiction author, does not aspire to write the definitive picture of a person, place or period. (If she does, she'll never finish that book.)

4. The author's job is to pick one premise, one theme and one or two morals of the story. If she's doing her job well, she's going to use the best of her talents to accomplish that limited goal.

5. This author chose to portray a group of white women and a group of black women whose intertwining relationships were representative of a culture and a period.

I think she accomplished her goal well.

If she didn't accomplish this TV historian's goal well, she didn't have to.

And clearly, since THE HELP continues to strike a chord in hundreds of thousands of people who have read and continue to read it--and smile and laugh and shake their heads and feel the pain of those characters--the author did her job.

That is the only thing she was supposed to do.

The only job any author of fiction has or should.

Been sooooo lazy...

2011-08-26T00:01:00.001-05:00

I have not been keeping my blogs up...

But I have been working...Hard Work, Hot Boss came out in print on August 4, 2011, and Uncertainly Yours is coming soon. It's been a long, hot dry spell for me over the past year. Health issues and lack of energy are partially to blame, but mostly, I have been too doggoned lazy. Been under loads and gobs of stress, and got caught by a gnarly case of shingles a couple of months back. Nobody ever explained that getting rid of the shingles is only half the work...you then have to go through a month or three of "post-herpetic pain" from the damaged nerves. Gah! Wouldn't you know?

Since the meds are far worse than the discomfort and pain, I opted to tough it out. Oooowwwww!

I am going to Romanticon though, so drop me an e-mail if you are going, too, and would enjoy getting together.

Hugs!

Fran Lee

http://www.franleeromance.com

2011-08-20T09:07:00.002-05:00

Sex is serious business. It’s enthralling, enthusiastic, invigorating and enervating. In addition to being fun, it’s funny. Which is what makes my erotic romances different from others’. Humor—even in my darkest erotic romance—is my “brand.” My author’s voice.

Some people upon meeting me express surprise that I write erotic romance. My response to that observation is this: I’m not so old I’ve forgotten the joys of making love. Nor am I so young that I’m embarrassed writing about those joys. In very explicit terms!

I’ve written short contemporary, romantic suspense, Regency and Victorian historicals. I never sold. Now I write erotic romances. My sixteenth book—Her Virtual Ecstasy—will release October 1, 2011. I think you can see why I write what I write. I have two more books—It Takes a Thief and Temptress of Time that are contracted, but don’t have release dates yet.

Why do I write what I write?

· Freedom of language: To ensure I avoid redundancy, I have an American Dictionary of Slang where I find lots of synonyms for sex parts. I also have a Dictionary of Euphemisms, which I don’t use much if at all.

· Freedom to fantasize: I remember being really angry at Erica Jung for revealing so many female fantasies in her novel Fear of Flying. Now I appreciate the freedom to imagine anything—and to write about it.

· Luck: In 2005 I ran in to Lynn LaFleur at the RWA conference in Reno, NV. She suggested I attend the “spotlight” on Ellora’s Cave Publishing. I won an anthology, loved every story in it, and wondered if I could write a story as funny and HOT as Charlotte Boyett Compo’s The Windsday Club. Inspired as I hadn’t been in a long time, I came home and wrote Passion’s Four Towers, which became my first sale ever.

· Freedom to explore new (for me) subgenres: I write Historical Fantasy because I can play fast and loose with historical details—except for certain words and making sure they were in use at the time. I really admire all you wonderful authors who write historically accurate and creative stories as well. I do try to stay accurate with clothes and weaponry, but the rest is out of my own imagination. I started writing Futuristic Fantasy because I needed something to occupy my time while I waited to hear about my historical fantasy. Both genres are a lot of fun to write. I probably will never write a paranormal, even though I read them a lot.

Since I first wrote this, I have written and sold a paranormal: Chosen. It’s available from eXtasy Books.

· Challenges: I love compound/complex sentences. Most e-publishers do not. Even commas are frowned on.

· Naming Creativity: I live with my Character Naming Sourcebook from The Writer’s Digest. I don’t even start writing until I’ve named all my major and most of my secondary characters. Naming is fun. For example, Passion’s Four Towers three brothers’ names are variations on the word “spear.”

Pesky little issues of self-publishing: Q & A

2011-08-17T00:02:00.018-05:00

While I dip my toe in the waters of self-publishing (and I write about them on my blog beginning 7.17.11 at http://cerisedeland.blogpsot.com ), I thought I would quickly list of few issues that occur to me as vital within the industry to note:
1. Like any other venture, have a GOAL. For this book, for this venture, which is going to cost you a lot of time and money, hope and aspiration, do have an idea of what you wish to accomplish.

Is it to increase your readership, assuming you are already published and have books out which new readers may now buy?
Is it to launch yourself into a new venture and learn a new business model?
Is it to establish yourself in a new medium with a low price point?

Only by having a clear goal can you have a sense of accomplishment and a feeling that your time and effort were well spent.
2. Understand that your sales may not come to you all at once within a few months of publication.
WHY?
Because digital life is long. Eternal, it would seem. PRINT life, as an author friend of mine often says, has the shelf life of celery.
Be patient. If you build it, readers will come.
3. How many will come?
Ah. That depends. On your promotion, your visibility and of course, on the quality of the work.
The visibility and promo, to some extent, you can control.
The quality and how it is received by others? Not so much.
WHY?
Because everyone has an opinion and they are entitled to it, and reviewers abound. The good. The Bad. The ugly. The unprincipled. What for one is a 5 star, is for another a 3 star. How can that be, you ask?
As a multi-pubbed author in print and in e-book, I can only repeat: everyone has an opinion. Those opinions can be as varied as flakes of snow.
You just have to put your big girl or boy pants on and live with it.
4. Promo!
Oh, boy. My only thought on this...at the moment...is do not spend yourself blind. Choose a few good places to promote and advertise and get the heck out of Dodge!
You can go nuts AND BROKE.
amen.
Want more of my journey and a blow-by-blow of what to do, how, when and how much to spend?
Go to my blog (addy above) and begin with post for 7.17.11 and all posted with "self-pub" in the blog labels.
Want to see how I did with this book? Buy link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005DA0200/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=cerdel-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B005DA0200
Ciao! Happy new ventures!

Why?

2011-07-19T12:15:00.002-05:00

Why are some stories so easy to write while others aren’t?

My latest WIP (His Virtual Diva)—soon to be my latest release from eXtasy Books—was very difficult to finish. Truth is, had I not had a deadline, I might have put it aside for another year or two. I blamed my Muse, whom I’d allowed to take a vacation around Thanksgiving. Problem was she hadn’t returned by mid-February. Yikes!

She finally deigned to come back, but I caught her daydreaming about the next story and the next. We had a very serious discussion, including her protests that my finishing was not her fault.

So what was?

The entire time I was working on another book—Temptress of Time—I was excited about His Virtual Diva. Couldn’t wait to finish Temptress of Time I could write His Virtual Diva. I was so anxious to start this story that I used it for an online class, figuring I’d get a head start and complete the story in no time.

Wrong!

Which got me to thinking. Having cleared my decks, metaphorically speaking—HVD submitted—I moved on to my next story. Wrote four chapters in as many weeks and am feeling darn proud of myself.

Some of you may consider a chapter a week (4-5,000 words per) slow. For me it’s fairly fast—especially since I can’t compose on my computer. I handwrite each chapter, input it and do some self-editing before handing the chapter off to my critique partners.

So anyway, why was HVD so difficult to write while Flames and Desire is appearing on the page as if my pen is enchanted?

I’m a pantser—which means I usually don’t have a clue about how the story will evolve. Of course I have a basic premise and know—because I write romance—that I’ll end with a Happily Ever After. In fact, I’ve had the idea for Flames and Desire kicking around the back of my mind for several years. Why didn’t I start it sooner is a story unto itself.

Because of that online class, His Virtual Diva was pretty much plotted which—I’m thinking now—took away some of the wonderful surprises I, as a pantser, love. Not that plots can’t change as the characters grow—they can and do. It’s just that neither my mind nor my Muse works that way.

So I’ve decided to leave plotting to the plotters. My Muse and I will continue to fly by the seat of our pants. Right now she’s telling me to hurry up and finish Flames and Desire. She has more stories for me to transcribe on her behalf. Like she’s the storyteller and I’m just a secretary!

I keep telling her that with storytelling—like making love—half the fun lies in the journey. She’s sulking a bit, but not too much. I’m hoping she’ll get over her snit pretty quick so we can get on with Flames and Desire and start my next Virtual Seductions series book and…

So many stories, so little time.

So here's a blurb and an excerpt from His Virtual Diva.

His Virtual Diva Blurb

Aloof composer-conductor Lamont Johansson (LJ) knows he’s grasping at straws trying to introduce opera to the Andromeda System. He’s certainly taking enormous financial risks. When the brilliant, erratic diva Daphne Basini arrives on Al Sufi—two weeks late—he finds he’s attracted to her and is amazed that her voice is the voice he’s been searching for all his life. Suddenly there is more at stake than a successful opera season. He’s risking his heart as well.

Deanna Basini’s arrival on Al Sufi is not at all what she expected. She’s supposed to hook up with her sister, Daphne, but Daphne has decamped again without notifying the opera company that hired her. And again, Deanna is forced to masquerade as her more famous, impetuous and sexually adventurous sister in order to save Daphne’s flagging career. Deanna’s resentment fades under LJ’s critical demands and encouragement. She finds her desire for him intensifying alongside the guilt she feels for deceiving him.

Daphne hasn’t been delayed by normal circumstances. Venus has taken over her body and is leading her through a whirlwind of sensual pleasures. When Daphne gains the upper hand and finally arrives on Al Sufi, she discovers she might not rescue her career, but with Venus’ help, she might push LJ and Deanna together.

Their passion for music brings Deanna and LJ together. Will deception drive them apart?

His Virtual Diva Excerpt

The first gentle brush of his lips sent melodies drifting through Deanna’s mind. Soon words followed. A kiss is just a kiss. But his were so much more. She could float forever in his kinds of kisses. So gentle. So playful. So…so very…

A sigh is just a sigh.

His sigh breathed need into her mouth. Hers soughed agreement as he turned her to face him. Her knees straddled his hips. Her mons pressed to his cock as they rubbed, eliciting sighs that grew more and more ragged. Yet he never changed the tempo. Even his tongue caressing hers maintained a sweetness she cherished. Persuasion…oh, yes. So much nicer than plundering. So much more in tune with his hands gliding under her sweatshirt. His fingertips plucked her furled nipples like a harpist playing slowly, building chords that tightened her entire body. She pulled off her sweatshirt, exposing her topless chest. She’d hoped for this, planned to make it easy to get naked.

“Your breasts…” As if unable to say another word, he cupped them both, then lapped each rigid nub. Flames arced between her nipples and her empty pussy. Her swollen clit throbbed, aching for his touch. Beyond conscious control, her hips rose and fell, settling when he unzipped his shorts and then freed his cock. With wiggles and grunts, they worked his shorts to his knees, sighing into each other’s mouth.

Against her lips he murmured, “Push your breasts together.”

She did, gasping as his tongue flicked each nipple in rapid succession. His clever fingers settled on her hips, but she could feel him toying with the narrow straps on her thong. His simultaneous continuing attention to her nipples made her laugh sound more like a moan. Multitasking was clearly in his lovemaking skill set.

“Do these clasps work?” he asked before sucking one peak into his mouth. Using his tongue, teeth and lips, he drove her speechless.

“Y-yesss,” she managed, arching her back as he transferred his attention to her other breast. She thought he said good, but was too intent on what his hands were doing to care.

She felt the clasps give, the slide of silk between her slick folds as he pulled off her thong, the heat of his body as he laid them both on the blanket. Panting, she wiggled her hips and, finally, had his cock almost where she wanted it.

“Not yet,” he murmured, bracing on his elbows. His silver gaze inched over her face as if memorizing every feature. His fingers followed with feathery touches along her brows, eyelids and nose. They tickled yet made her feel so cherished she sighed. Bypassing her lips, he traced her jaw and chin, the hollow in her throat, the shell of one ear. Every touch aroused her, yet left her boneless.

Sensing his unwillingness to hurry, she duplicated his patterns over his face. His bushy eyebrows felt silkier than they looked. The stubble on his cheeks and chin rasped in her palm, making her imagine whisker burns on her own face. Yet she hadn’t felt any scrapes because his kisses were so gentle. A bump in his nose had her kissing it as if it were a break she could heal with her lips.

Why?

2011-07-19T10:46:00.004-05:00

Why are some stories so easy to write while others aren’t?

She finally deigned to come back, but I caught her daydreaming about the next story and the next. We had a very serious discussion, including her protests that my finishing was not her fault.

So what was?

Wrong!

Which got me to thinking. Having cleared my decks, metaphorically speaking—HVD submitted—I moved on to my next story. Wrote four chapters in as many weeks and am feeling darn proud of myself.

So anyway, why was HVD so difficult to write while Flames and Desire is appearing on the page as if my pen is enchanted?

So many stories, so little time.

So much good news to share, too. His Virtual Diva release August 1, 2011 from eXtasy Books. Plus I sold two new books--Temptress of Time and It Takes a Thief to Ellora's Cave. No release dates yet, but I'll keep you posted.

Also, here's a blurb and an excerpt for His Virtual Diva.

TOMORROW Holt and DeLand ROCK IT OUT Party! Prizes, games!

2011-07-17T00:04:00.004-05:00

Come on over to http://www.cyberlaunchparty.blogspot.com for HOLT AND DELAND ROCK IT OUT!
This is our second party--and we have them each month on the 18th.
You do not want to miss the fun--and the prizes.
What are they?
A grand prize of a bag of goodies, including books!
Other prizes--all e-books!!!

Looky, Looky

2011-07-14T01:03:00.000-05:00

A brand new print book currently only available through Barnes and Noble.

You can check it out here: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cougarlicious-cerise-deland/1104199317?ean=9781419964800&itm=12&usri=amber%2bskyze

Trading Cards

2011-06-20T09:47:00.002-05:00

I have Romance Trading Cards. Check them out at my blog: deesdites.blogspot.com

If you'd like a set, please send me a SASE to: Dee Brice, Post-It, 7511 Watt Avenue, Suite 102, Box 121, North Highlands, CA 95660/

To be on the safe side, use two first class stamps.

I also have a new release--if I can just make the deadline! His Virtual Diva releases August 1, 2011 from eXtasy Books.

Have a wonderful day.

Dee Brice

Erotic Fantasies Where Nothing is Forbidden

Chasing Forever - Amber Skyze

2011-06-14T05:56:00.001-05:00

Blurb:

Jordyn has longed to make her relationship with best friend Diego more than platonic. Her body drips with need to know what it would feel like to have his lips kissing every inch of her skin. Desire to wrap her legs around his waist and plunge into deep waters with him fills her every dream.

Diego is one with the ocean. His passion is surfing and chasing that ultimate wave. He doesn’t have time for a relationship. Or does he?

A storm is brewing and when a tragedy occurs, Diego and Jordyn need to decide if they’re both chasing the same dreams.

An Excerpt From: CHASING FOREVER

Copyright © AMBER SKYZE, 2011

All Rights Reserved, Ellora's Cave Publishing, Inc.

Chapter One

Jordyn sat on the beach towel watching Diego riding out the waves. Her pulse raced. He knew he shouldn’t be out there. Hurricane Ivan was heading inland and the weatherman had warned of the dangerous undertow. She’d attempted to chase a few waves, but once she’d swum a few yards she knew it was a mistake. She’d quickly swum back to shore and waited while her best friend tried to prove he was smarter than the ocean.

The waters had turned mean and ugly over the last twenty minutes and the sky was an ominous gray. The hurricane was moving closer. A breeze came in off the water and a chill passed through her body. She’d unzipped her wet suit down to her waist, exposing her bikini top when she exited the water. She should cover up again in case the rains poured down.

She scanned the waters. Someone on a Jet Ski buzzed around, stopping every so often to take some pictures. She hoped he would keep away from the jagged rocks. The razor-sharp rocks were Jordyn’s bigger fear with Diego being out on the water. One wrong move and a wave could drag him under and throw him against the rocks, ending his life.

Jet skis were prohibited at any time on this part of the beach, but it didn’t stop them, especially on a day like today. They’d swarm around the surfers—in this case, just Diego—hoping to get a great shot of him nailing a thirty-foot wave.

Hopefully that’s all he catches.

She scanned the beach looking for any other fools. People with cameras hoping to click the ideal picture of the perfect storm peppered the sand.

“Dumbasses,” she muttered. What did that make her? She was on the beach too. Why had she allowed Diego to convince her this was a good idea?

“Because I’m a fool too.” She buried her foot in the sand and watched how the tiny particles glided between her toes. If she was smart she’d grab her board, jump in her Jeep and hightail it back to her place. Common sense flew out the window when it came to Diego, because she was head over heels in love with him.

Too bad he doesn’t feel the same. He loved her like a sister he’d said a few too many times, especially on drunken occasions.

If she’d had a nickel for all the times he’d said, “If you weren’t like a sister to me, I’d fuck you.”

How her pussy moistened with the thought. A few times she’d been tempted to sock him one and other times she’d wanted to tackle him and show him the woman inside waiting for him to fill that void deep within.

Instead she’d sat back and waited.

Wheels

2011-05-19T21:57:00.002-05:00

The cover is for the latest release in my Virtual Seductions series. It's available now from eXtasy Books.

Since I didn't post last month, I'm posting early this month.

If you haven’t seen True Lies or In the Line of Fire or visited the Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles, CA, you may be unaware that the entire hotel is round. Which means you can’t get from one side of the lobby to the other without going around the bar area or through the elevator access to the guest towers. If you’re directionally challenged like I am, you may spend a lot of time going in circles. I did and have the blisters on my toes to prove it!

The other quirky thing about the hotel is the elevators only stop on lower floors 1, 3 and 5. To reach 2, 4 and 6 you take the escalator up or down. And if you’re looking for a specific place to eat—like Subway on level 6—you have to know to turn right when you step off the escalator. If you turn left—like I did twice—you take a grand tour of all the shops and eateries on the entire floor as you circle around and end up pretty much where you started.

Aside from that, signage on these “common” levels isn’t terrific. Finding some of the workshop rooms require advance planning or meeting someone who’s looking for the same place you are.

On the plus, plus side—there are plenty of places to sit and visit—something I found lacking in Columbus, OH (RT last year). Food and drink in the hotel were both expensive, but there were plenty of on- and off-site places that were lots less expensive. Starbucks and McDonald’s were across the street.

I had the privilege of sharing in Desiree Holt’s celebration of her one-hundredth release (Downstroke) with several other friends (Allie, Samantha, Cheryl and Laura). This charming, go-get-‘em lady (Desiree) introduced me to more e-publishers than I knew existed. Her kindness allowed me to pitch in the organized chaos that is Club RT. I have to say that’s the strangest place I’ve ever pitched, but I was asked to submit—my manuscript, Sam and Lex and all you other BDSM/GL authors—so it worked out really well.

Spent a little time catching up with sister Siren Caitlyn Willows and met Siren Treva Harte. Treva was in her Loose Id persona and I was pitching so our time together was very businesslike. I think the networking/catching up opportunities at RT are worth the costs of going.

Two new things at the signings this year. Graphic Arts/Novels and Teen Day. Authors/Contributors were in a separate area of the ballrooms. Reaction from other authors regarding this division was mixed, but I kind of liked it. I didn’t have to hide my more risqué covers from the under 18ers.

Did I mention it was cold and windy? So windy that getting on and off the glass elevators became a leap of faith—for me, at least. The wind blew straight up the elevator shafts (up pants legs and skirts, too). I couldn’t see the elevator sway, but I sure could imagine it! I’m rather proud of myself for even riding in a glass elevator. As long as I could hold on to the railing I did fine. And it sure beat climbing up and down twenty-four flights of stairs!

Would I go back to the Bonaventure? You bet! But I’m already planning for RT in Chicago next year and sending my thanks that it isn’t in July!

Oh, you may be wondering why I call this Wheels? Blessed are they who go round in circles for they shall be known as…wheels!

Dee Brice

Erotic Fantasies Where Nothing is Forbidden

Contest to win books & bag of goodies!

2011-05-17T00:03:00.004-05:00

Come over to my blog today where you can post and win a big bag of goodies and books (mine and others'--all erotica!

Where? Here http://cerisedeland.blogspot.com

To celebrate my newest erotic Regency release, LADY VARNEY'S RISQUE BUSINESS over at www.resplendencepublishing.com, I am holding a very nice contest to win goodies. The takings include EC tote, EC playing cards, Wild Rose Press waterbottle, EC calendar, eye mask and more!

Rules?

There are rules:

1. Write and tell us all please why you prefer contemporaries or historicals as erotica to straight romance in contemp or historical period!

Also tell us the title of the book you have RECENTLY READ that you ADORE!

2. Post on my blog as a Comment: http://cerisedeland.blogspot.com

3. Do it today, Tuesday before 11:59 PM Eastern Daylight Savings Time!

4. Leave your email address so that I can notify you of the win!

I will pick a winner later on Tuesday 5.17.11, email you (and ask for your snail mail address)!

Ciao!

What reading fiction has done for my life and my profession

2011-04-17T00:01:00.002-05:00

As I gaze at my TBR pile, both on my reading table and in my electronic queue, I ponder what reading fiction has done for me--and as they say in the mystery world, whodunit.

I have a list.

Bet you do, too.

Here, for your dancing pleasure, is mine. Not that it is complete for my part. Not that it is comprehensive for your part, but then this space is limited and you do not wish me to be a gas bag!

Here we go.

1. Fiction has taught me, from an early age, too, that life is complex. Humans are intricate creatures full of inexplicable emotions and motivations.

I use this sense of wonder to build characters I can believe in.

I learned this while reading Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson and the Brontes. Jane Eyre got her backbone in the most time-honored way: she damn well earned it by sticking up for herself and not simply--simperingly--enduring!

2. Most humans have elements of the heroic in them. Even the villians. Especially them. After all, said an editor of mine once long ago, villains are the heroes of their own stories. Look at Sherlocke Holmes, very complex creature. Dracula. Phillipa Gregory's "heroine" of Wildacre. (Chills me, still.) I try to find the emotional reason and the logical reason to my characters' motivations. Especially those in my mystery series (under another name, dear reader). Picking out those finite bits of their operating structure is the most difficult thing I have to do. And I love it, I do. I confess.

3. I learned that history is an assembly of facts about how people lived their lives. Such reading has taught me to be in awe of them that they survived, and to value my own life. Plumbing. Gasoline in autos. Electricity. Air travel (really!). Newspapers, paper types and on-line. But more than feeling the history in fictional accounts, I have learned to appreciate the accurate depiction of facts. About then. And most especially about happenings now.

Thanks to reading history in fiction, I have come to value fact more than opinion. Where the fact is stated baldly, I thank people for the information. Where it comes with opinion attached, I take that with my grain of salt...and usually, like Julia Child sensing too much for the palate, I throw it over my shoulder.

4. Reading fiction has inspired me to revisit the history of the civil rights movement (The Help by Karen Stockett), to want to return to Japan where we once lived for a few glorious years (The Tale of Genji), to re-read about nurses in World War I in Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear. Reading fiction has also taught me a whole lot about forensics, how to kill people--all totally useful info if I wish to spend my life in jail OR writing mysteries. (I like the latter.)

5. I find too that all those years I went to the library, took my children there as well as to the bookstores, that they are now involved in writing in one form or another. Our daughter, who loves to read any ANY ANY fictional account of Anne Boleyn and Henry, now writes for a famous CEO. Our second son, aside from the day job, writes and produces his own films. (I am writing a script with him, too! MY first film script. urgle.) Our oldest son, who accidentally passed away over a year ago, was a published poet. This last of having literate, articulate children tickles me like none of the above even begin to.

Okay! Enuf said the walrus!

What has reading fiction done for you????

We need to know so that we can feel satisfied and damn pleased with ourselves for seeing what really matters here.

(And yes, that book cover is my latest. A Regency period erotic romance. It is not only what I do, but clearly who I am!)

Just Another Rainy Day

2011-04-14T05:29:00.002-05:00

http://www.jasminejade.com/p-9229-just-another-rainy-day.aspx

Blurb:
Tired of their ho-hum sex life, Jack decides to spice things up by planning a surprise for his wife. After sending the children off for an overnight with their aunt, Jack handcuffs Beth to their bed.
Beth awakes naked, blindfolded and at the mercy of her husband. The day starts off with being fed by Jack and quickly turns into hot and heavy sex. She soon learns that a slip of the tongue can lead to stinging ass cheeks.
This rainy day will be spent pushing their sexual limits. Whether in bed or out, Jack will leave Beth begging for more—until she says something unforgiveable.

Excerpt:

An Excerpt From: JUST ANOTHER RAINY DAY
Copyright © AMBER SKYZE, 2011
All Rights Reserved, Ellora's Cave Publishing, Inc.
Chapter One
“Rise and shine, sleepyhead.”
Beth opened her eyes to total darkness. She attempted to move, but found her arms were pulled above her head. Around her wrists was soft fur. She tugged and the rattling sound of chains filled her ears. She was restrained. Fear spread throughout her body and into her throat.
“Why am I handcuffed?” As she tried to sit up she realized she was also blindfolded. Never in their fifteen years of marriage had she woken to find herself trussed like a slave or prisoner.
The smell of bacon wafted closer, assaulting her nostrils.
“I’m going to fuck that pussy all day long.”
Beth moved her head to the left where Jack’s voice echoed through the room. She shivered. The thought of him fucking her all day sent chills down her spine, until reality came crashing back.
“What about the kids? Surely they’ll want Mom to cook them breakfast and drive them all over God’s creation.”
“All taken care of. I just sent them packing with Auntie. They’ll be home tomorrow bright and early.”
How long had she’d slept? She knew she was exhausted when she fell into bed the night before, but to sleep through the kids waking and Jack shackling her to the bed wasn’t like her.
“Did you spike my drink last night, Jack?”
A full belly laugh filled the room. “I’d hardly do something so sinister.”
He had a point. In all their marriage he’d never even spoken an ill word against her. Why should she accuse him of something so hideous?
“How did you manage to handcuff me to the bed?”
“You were snoring peacefully. I moved your arms without getting a peep out of you. You barely stirred.”
Beth racked her brains trying to remember any feeling of being moved around, but nothing came to mind.
“Clever, Jack, now uncuff me please.”
“No can do.”
“Huh? Please, Jack. My arms can only take so much of being stretched like this. I’d like you to release me, now.”
“Remember your prisoner fantasy?”
How could she forget? She’d told him about the fantasy eons ago. They’d been enjoying a glass of white wine on a cold winter’s night. They’d nestled all cozy in front of the fireplace. As they gazed into the glowing embers, she had shared her deepest darkest desires. Beth had told him how she wanted to feel as if she’d been kidnapped, taken away and tortured in every delicious way imaginable. Jack had listened quietly and nodded at the appropriate times. She’d explained that she pictured herself in the shower after a long day. A stranger would appear and pull her soaking wet from the streaming water. He’d carry her to her bedroom where he’d take what he wanted. He’d ignore her pleas for him to stop. He’d fuck her until they were both sated.
She’d thought he’d forgotten by now. Obviously he had been biding his time.
“Is this what is happening today? You’re living out my fantasy?” A slight shiver passed through her body. Jack had listened. He’d taken her seriously and decided to give her what she needed.
“We are and I’m in control. You will do as I say or suffer the consequences.”
Beth shook as a chill of delight filled her. Jack’s voice was deep and demanding. He was using his dominant tone.
“Got it.” A secret smile filled her soul.

Order!

2011-03-22T08:31:00.000-05:00

One of the things I find fascinating about living in an apartment is the assumption that most inhabitants eat a lot of take-out food. We must find twenty flyers tucked in our door knob or door knocker per week.

What exactly can we order?

Pizza. Pizza. Pizza. Southern Kitchen. Chinese. Pizza. Chinese. Pizza. And more pizza.

I'm waiting for someone to open a carryout restaurant with something other than pizza or fried food. Oh, I know most restaurants have a carryout capability, but most of them are not really set up for it. They dump the food in a carton designed for taking home your leftovers. By the time you get the food home and open it, the bread's soggy, the meat is cold...

No. I'm thinking more along the lines of a place that focuses on producing meals specifically for take-out. I recently ordered a hamburger at a restaurant for carryout. By the time I got home, it was cold. Very soggy. And the components had slid apart in the container so I had to peel it apart to put it back together. Ugh.

We don't order out very often. I mean, really? Pizza or Chinese? That's it. I discount the southern cooking place as everything is fried and my cholesterol really can't deal with that. There used to be a restaurant where I could order a salad, but they went out of business.

Perhaps it's just as well. Food cooked at home from scratch is healthier and you tend to not eat as much. But once in a while...

You just want to order out!

anny

Why Dee's Dites

2011-03-20T08:52:00.002-05:00

Several months ago I succumbed to the need to have my own blog. I chose to call it Dee’s Dites (deesdites.blogspot.com). The other day DH asked me why that particular name.

Aside from the alliteration, “dites” is French for “tell.” Who can forget—assuming, of course, you’re old enough to remember—the song Ditez Moi from South Pacific?

Anyway, I have a French maiden name and thought deesdites appropriate. In addition, in spite of warnings to show not tell, writers do tell. We tell stories. We tell about people who meet and fall in love. And, hopefully, readers remember what we’ve told them.

Over the next several weeks, I’m going to tell readers how each of my books came about. Check me out at: deesdites.blogspot.com.

Oh! Also check out Book 4 in my Sensuous Seasonings series. It’s called Model Misbehavior and will release April 1, 2011—and no, that’s no April Fools’ Day joke—from eXtasy Books.

Dee Brice

Erotic Fantasies Where Nothing is Forbidden

Those Regency men~ and the women who love them...

2011-03-17T00:05:00.004-05:00

Celebrating my 4 STANHOPE CHALLENGE novels (and 1 Free Read inside Lady Featherstone's Fervent Affair) and their success on 3 Best-Seller Lists for more than 8 months!!! THE BASTARD'S PASSIONATE PRIZE, 4th in the series, debuts March 30 at Resplendence Publishing! www.resplendencepublishing.com

Scroll down here to view the trailer for the series, too!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Spring is right around the corner...

2011-02-26T00:01:00.026-05:00

And I am sitting here staring at the book mark instead of writing...

Ah, well...I really have been making a greater effort to write, and I am 5,000 words into my latest wip. I am getting back into the swing, and hope to maintain the momentum indefinitely, since I desperately need the income. LOL!

I plan to submit one manuscript every month through this year, and if you all keep telling me to get my fanny in gear, I will do just that. It really helps!

Working my way through a massive writing slump has taught me a lot, and my dear author friends have really helped me to get myself in motion once again. Having a wonderful support network is great, and I highly recommend getting one if you don't already have one. :)

Struggling through these things alone is nigh onto impossible. So I will bed you all adieu so that I can get my latest wip finished to sub it by end of month.

Hugs!

Fran Lee

http://www.franleeromance.com

News

2011-02-20T12:38:00.002-05:00

Hi Everybody,

It's been so busy around my house I almost forgot to post. Anyway…

New releases coming out from eXtasy Books.

March 1, 2011--My Virtual Seductions series begun at Ellora's Cave continues at eXtasy Books with His Virtual Bride.

April 1, 2011--Sensuous Seasonings continues with Model Misbehavior.

May 1, 2011--More Virtual Seductions with Her Virtual Consort.

And check out my new website deebrice.com Have a few little clean ups to do, but I think it looks great!

Bad Cowboys, Sheriffs, Rangers... got 'em

2011-02-17T00:03:00.010-05:00

The allure of the American Cowboy endures in all our romantica books. Since coming to EC, TOTAL E and Resplendence, I have pubbed 5 cowboys-Sheriffs-Rangers and have a few conclusions about them.

First, I think these men are stronger characters in erotica--and more true to life! The rough, tough type of man we think of as a cowboy, is best personified by a man with a load of testosterone. Hence, a hot and heavy erotica fits best.

Secondly, because I LIVE in cowboy country--and have now for nearly 15 years--I know these boys! I have worked with them, played with them (at the local Chamber of Commerce and other local events.)

They are truly individuals. With a capital I.

They do not mess with details. This, of course, can get them in trouble. But they tend not to care. They let others work on that pesky little stuff for them. OKAY, then!

They do take care of their appearance. They are fit. Very. And need no gym membership to hone those delicious muscles. And as for attire, beard, etc? They are not particular but pull on those worn, comfortable jeans and plaid shirt to be out there on a horse. Chaps (yum,yum) if necessary. But at home with their women, at a dance hall to do a graceful (do not use that word, though, puleeez) Two Step, they dress. Knife-pressed, starched jeans. White, starched shirt. Damnest big silver buckle on their belt. Bigger than...well, any one else's, donchaknow. Boots. Knee high. Polished. Leather or Ostrich. Hand tooled. Cut to a fare thee well. Spurs. (Tingly, yet?)

They also know how to cook.

Well. Really, they know how to barbeque. Hottest, damn coals are best, thank you, ma'am.

What do they cook? Ribs. Beef, pork, baby backs. Fajitas, especially down here in south Texas, this is our specialty. They also do Mean Beans. MEAN. (Bring your constitution, please.) Brisket, they will smoke till it falls apart in your fingers. You get all gooey and you must lick yourself clean. Hmmm. Method? Madness?

What else can they do?

They know how to wield a bull whip.

A carving knife.

A lasso.

Biggest trucks I have ever seen.

They are not good with eloquence of the East Coast variety. But they do know how to speak their minds...and their hearts.

Happy reading about these men. I know they are unique, special and very very real.

Happ Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T06:11:00.003-05:00

This year Hallmark had a new slogan – Valentine’s Day is a day to say I love us.
I really liked this slogan. I could relate to it. I think that’s why it stuck in my mind. I’d rather celebrate us than just him. Without a spouse or significant other there is no US.
If you don’t have that someone special to spend it, then celebrate with a friend or family.
Every year I try to do something unique for him. Last year I tied little sayings to Lindt chocolates, so that every time he ate a piece he had a little reminder of me. :o) Goofy? Maybe, but I know it melted his heart.
Yesterday I ran out and bought him a heart-shaped chocolate chip cookie from the bakery. He loves the cookie pies. I wish I could tell you I did something unique, but life has been hectic and Valentine’s Day was here before I had a chance to think about it.
How about you? Do you say I Love You in little ways?
Happy Valentine’s Day!

Now in PRINT!

2011-01-26T00:00:00.079-05:00

Dictated by Fate

Resplendence Publishing

Out of Her Dreams

Ellora's Cave Publishing

Needing a Cougar

Coming Soon from Ellora's Cave Publishing

The Carnal Reunions Anthology

Seven great authors-seven great novellas

from Resplendence Publishing

I am primarily an e-book author, and it is great. But once in a while it is also great to see your pristine, glowing, beautiful book that you can hold in your hands and read without sitting at your computer. Yep, you guessed...I do not own an e-reader, and I probably won't until the prices drop a bit more. After all, the Kindle dropped from $400+ to under $200 in two years.

E-publishers use "print-to-order" publishers, so the price per book is about 50% higher than a regular mass produced paperback, but the books are gorgeous! They are larger, with excellent covers and fabulous quality. These (as most authors know) are called "trade paperbacks".

About the only thing that will convince a reader to purchase a larger, more expensive paperback book is if the author sits there and talks to them and autographs that beautiful book. It then becomes a collector's book, and gets put on the show-shelf. Then the reader reads the e-book so that her pristine, lovely book will not be damaged and dog-eared. :P

Trade paperbacks and print-to-order books are better for the environment than mass-produced print books because there are WAY fewer returns, and way fewer thrown out. Because the future of publishing lies in the electronic age, old fashioned hard back books will cost the earth, and be for collectors only in another ten years.

I love my collection of vintage hard back books from the 30's, 40's and 50's, plus my vintage romance paperbacks from the 60's through the 90's. But I can store all my e-books on one 4 gigabyte flash drive with a backup file on my computer...and my thousands of paper and ink books are all packed away in water-proof containers. I'm sure my kids will have a yard sale when I am gone, so drop on over to get some great collector books for under a buck!

I am giving away a print copy of Dictated by Fate tonight at my January chat over at LoveRomancesCafe at 8:00 pm Eastern. So drop on in.

Hugs!

Fran Lee

http://www.franleeromance.com

Re-Engaging the Muse

2011-01-20T07:44:00.008-05:00

About two weeks into the new year, I realized my muse had stopped working around the middle of December. Okay, nobody expects someone to work during the holidays but--geez!--a month off?

So I did what I almost always do when I start writing in the morning: I reread what I'd last written--thirty days or so earlier. Problem was I had only written a paragraph or less. Frantic, I sat with that mostly blank page and willed my pen to move. (Yep, I'm one of those people born with a pen in one hand and a notepad in the other who can't compose while typing to save her soul.)

Nothing happened. Nada. Zero. Zilch. My muse refused to return to work. Yikes! Was this the end of my writing career? Asking myself how I kept amused and sort of sane in the days before I became a published writer helped. What did I do? I read.

So I read a bunch of erotic romances--something I usually avoid when I'm trying to write one of my own. My desperation didn't "guilt" my muse into coming home. In fact, I had a mental image of her lying on a chaise, sipping pina coladas at some ten-star spa resort while I'm stuck in fog and rain.

Take a break, I told myself. Read something else. And I did. Meg Cabot's Insatiable; Carolyn Brown's I Love This Bar (which, since it's about cowboys, I didn't expect to like, but did); Jayne Anne Krentz's Running Hot; and Laura Moore's Night Swimming. But the book that topped my list of different, intrigueing, and KEEPER was Diana Peterfreund's Rampant in which virgins and unicorns star in a very unique way.

Well, I guess the muse is as fascinated by the written word as I am. She returned, refreshed and willing to work. Whew! I finished the chapter I'd started in December and began the next. Which leads me to a question: How do you re-engage your muse? I'd love to know, so please leave a comment!

CHOSEN is available now. Buy at http://tinyurl.com/4e4bxdz; SAVING RYAN'S PRIVATES is also available now. Buy at http://tinyurl.com/27mwe2f.

THEIR CONSUMMATE COURTESAN releases February 1, 2011.

Dee Brice

Erotic Fantasies Where Nothing is Forbidden

New Year and a Coming Soon

2011-01-04T08:57:00.005-05:00

It's the start of a new year a time to set new goals, make resolutions and assess the past year. I'd intended to do a whole post on this, but good news changed that. I just got a release date for Hunted Intensity. Before I post the blurb and excerpt, I will ask a question. Did you make any resolutions?

I set a goal for myself this year to focus more on my writing. I felt I got a little off track last year and fell behind on some of the aspects like promo. So I'm going to try to make it a priority. Without any more delay, here's Hunted Intensity

Blurb:

Stranded at a cabin on the mountain by a fierce storm, Tori Cha’Nesat doesn’t expect to meet a gorgeous but apparently intoxicated shifter. Tyson’s amorous attentions leave her wanting more, but she’s torn between giving in to the hot desire, and guilt over hungering to be with him when he doesn’t know her.

Tyson followed his mate’s scent to a cabin, but his instincts are almost completely in control. Something’s wrong, but he can’t focus beyond her. He wants to make love and bond with Tori until she realizes she belongs with him. As the drug’s effects begin to fade, he can think beyond the raging need. He needs to get her to safety before his enemies destroy their chance at happiness.

Excerpt

Tori added a couple of logs to the fire and stirred the soup in pot hanging in the huge rock fireplace. The cabin was stark and definitely bare. There weren’t even chairs or beds, only the essentials, supplies and a couple of pots for cooking. She took a seat on the cushions she’d placed on the bare plank floor in front of the fireplace and leaned back on her arms relaxing for a moment. She had a fire for warmth, a comfortably padded pallet for the night and soup to eat.

Now, she could rest while the storm rolled overhead. It was a relief and a much better option than having to stay out in the cold rain and eat whatever she could find in her bag or on the trail. That could have happened if the michkal had run off a little later in the trek around the mountain and through the forest to the valley.

Dozing slightly as the warmth of the fire filled the cabin, her eyes snapped wide in alarm as the door rattled against the bar holding it closed. Mirlu stood and walked to the door, but he didn’t growl or even seem alarmed. His head cocked to the side and his long, pointed ears swiveled. Must be the wind. She turned back to the fire. The door banged against the bar again, but this time, it did it three times in a row. That couldn’t be just the wind.

The fact that Mirlu wasn’t agitated reassured her. The canil was protective and if it was anything or anyone he considered a threat, he’d be all fangs and growls. She rose to her feet and walked over to the door. She cautiously slid the board free of one of the loops and pulled the door open a little to look outside. Even though Mirlu wasn’t worried, she wasn’t going to take chances. The plank would keep it from opening fully.

She looked out and at first didn’t see anything, but then she looked down. A sleek black form stood right in front of the door. A big feline paw with long, sharp claws raked at the door. A tiron. She blinked. She’d only seen the animal form of a Santir shapeshifter in a book, but she couldn’t mistake it. Looking back at Mirlu, she raised her brows. Not a threat? The animal was huge. He stood chest high, muscled and she’d bet those claws of his had left marks on the door. She’d never met one of them, but she knew there were a couple of groups in the area.

The tiron stumbled sideways as it raised its paw to scratch at the door again. It didn’t even seem to be aware that she had it partially open. Okay, something was wrong. Maybe it, he or she, was hurt. Now, that she wasn’t gaping in shock, she noticed that the tiron’s sides heaved with labored breaths. Where were the tiron’s friends? She knew shifters tended to stay in groups and seldom traveled alone. Wondering why the Santir was here during one of the worst storms to hit the area in years was going to have to wait. He was in trouble and obviously needed help.

She pushed the door closed far enough to remove the bar fully and then opened the door. Stepping to the side, she held open the door so the tiron could enter. The tiron’s eyes fixed on hers and it took a slow step forward. Its rounded head pressed into her stomach and even through the fabric of her shirt, she felt him take in a deep breath. A rolling purr rumbled through the beast as he turned and entered the cabin. The beast’s triangular ears swiveled and tipped back. He couldn’t seem to walk a straight line as he moved into the room.

She frowned as she followed after shutting and barring the cabin door. What had that been about? Who was this shifter? Mirlu seemed comfortable with him, but right now she was questioning the canil’s ability to know what was dangerous. That shifter was huge and the claws on those paws looked lethal.

The tiron plopped on his butt in the middle of the floor and watched her with deep green eyes. Tori raised an eyebrow. She’d expected the tiron to change into human form. From what she knew about them, they weren’t shy about nudity, but maybe he was being considerate of her.

Tori bit her lip. She had no idea if she’d be able to find any clothing to fit him among those on the shelf in the storage room. At least, she thought it was a he. After the way he’d pressed against her and the intense look in his eyes, she hoped it was a he. Without getting a little personal and much closer to him, she couldn’t be sure. Until he or she changed and there was proof, she’d just think of it as he. She didn’t even know what he really looked like or how tall he was. Shaking her head, she closed her eyes for a moment and took a calming breath as she ordered her thoughts. She was getting ahead of herself. The shifter needed to get warm and dry first and then they could see if there were some pants or something to fit him.

“I’ll go get a pallet and blankets for you. It’s wet and chilly out there. You look a little drenched,” Tori said hesitantly before she turned and headed toward the door to the storage area. She felt a little strange talking to a huge animal, but she knew he could or at least should be able to understand her.

She opened the door and stepped into the cool cave carved from the dark gray and black mountain stone. Shelves filled with dried food, blankets and other supplies lined the walls. She stacked blankets, thick padding as well as a towel on one of her arms. Taking a chance that they might fit, she added a pair of soft thick cloth pants to the pile. She turned to go back into the main cabin and stumbled to a stop. The tiron stood in the doorway. Deep green eyes locked on her. They burned with intensity as he watched her every move. She hadn’t seen such strong emotion blazing from anyone’s eyes before.

Her nerves stretched taut. She eased by the animal and glanced nervously back over her shoulder as she walked across the room. He followed her with a stumbling, weaving gait that worried her. She couldn’t think of anything other than time to help that.

Tori spread the padding near the fire and piled on a blanket or two. She put the towel and pants near the bedding and turned down the blankets as she stepped back. Her feet touched fur and she felt something brush against her thigh. She stiffened and stopped, managing not to trip over him. Looking back, she saw his head brushing against her thigh.

“Why don’t you change and dry off so you can get under the covers and warm up a little?” She moved to the side and half-turned to give him or her some privacy in case they were shy.

The tiron rose and paced a circle around her. His large heavy body pressed against her and she felt the dampness of his fur through her pants. His long tail hooked around her leg just before she turned her eyes firmly to the wall. She waited and waited, hoping that he’d say something once he was covered. She heard a light thud and that drew her eyes to the pallet.

He sat on the pallet without so much as a blanket pulled over his legs. Goddess above, the man was sexy. Long straight black hair hung over his wide shoulders. His rich, brown skin gleamed in the flickering firelight. Dark spots at his jaw and ribs were barely visible against the rich tone and noticeable only because she couldn’t take her gaze off him. His green eyes looked unfocused as if he was drunk or drugged. His long lashes lowered and rested against his cheeks drawing her attention to the high arch of his cheekbones. A smile curved his full lips.

“I found you.” The man’s words slurred together, but were clear enough that she had no problem understanding them.

Hope you had a fabulous Christmas!

2010-12-26T00:01:00.019-05:00

May the peace and blessings of the season remain in your hearts and spirits throughout the new year...

I am working hard on getting my fanny back into gear and writing again. My five month sabbatical must end soon, or I will starve in 2011! LOL! It is hard to get back into the saddle once you climb down for a "break", because those "breaks" don't seem to end.

I resolve to finish at least one book every month in 2011.

I resolve to get off my fat fanny and excercise more.

I resolve to keep my New Year Resolutions.

I resolve to make resolutions I can keep.

Hope your New Year is bright and Happy...

Hugs!

Fran Lee

Merry Christmas

2010-12-20T11:14:00.003-05:00

Don't have anything to say this month except to wish you and yours the best holidays ever!

Dee Brice

Erotic Fantasies Where Nothing is Forbidden

Two new releases in January--Great Dane 1/1/2011 Chosen 1/15/2011

Naughty St. Nick

2010-12-14T05:14:00.005-05:00

Today I'm sharing my latest release. A Christmas story to warm you on a cold winter's night.

Available now from - Aspen Mountain Press

Someone is sending Emily erotic toys. The naughty notes attached are charging her dormant body to life with promises of red hot sex. She’s not sure who her secret Santa is, but if he’s truly following the Twelve Days of Christmas she’s about to find out.

Will Emily succumb to this Naughty St. Nick?

Excerpt:

Emily pattered over to the front door. She peered through the peephole.

"Hmmm, I swear I heard the doorbell." She threw opened the door against the bitter cold of the winter storm brewing outside. Shivering, she bent over the threshold and glanced in both directions. Her skin pebbled from the snowflakes landing on her bare arms.

"Strange, I know the doorbell rang." She was about to close the door when she noticed a small brown box, sitting off to the right.

Intrigued, she placed a sock covered foot into the icy snow and retrieved the box. She quickly slammed the door and hurried back to her blanket on the couch. She nestled under the red fuzzy blanket. Turning the box in her hands she looked for an addressee.

"Nothing." She couldn’t help but wonder if it were meant for her or if someone left it on her doorstep mistakenly. She shook the box. Something bounced around inside. Unable to fight her curiosity any longer she tore open the package. There inside was a mistletoe-colored finger butt plug, with little white snowmen on it. Tingling sensations warmed her body straight down to her core. Thoughts of teasing the rim of her ass with the humming vibrator tantalized her.

She needed to know who sent it. Digging deeper into the box she searched for a card or anything cluing her in to who the sender was. She found a tiny note card that read:

On the first day of Christmas my true love gave me to, one butt plug a hummin’.

Emily thought she’d explode into orgasm right then and there. The idea of someone wanting to charge her ass to life enthralled her. Filled with an arousal that ran deep, Emily knew she had to pleasure herself.

Heat from the flames crackling in the fireplace warmed her chilled body, smoothing her skin. The television blared in the background, but Emily tuned it out. She’d been watching a movie about a money heist on a train or something crazy. It hadn’t held her attention. Turning the plug over in her hands, she found something that gripped her total attention. She couldn’t imagine who would send her something so erotic.

Settling into the pillow she closed her eyes and pictured the guy from Six A, as the bearer of her gift. His wavy blond hair and those piercing green eyes charged her body. She’d fantasized about him a few times. Oh who was she kidding she masturbated to the image of his shit eating grin too many times to count.

Emily longed to run her hand over his taunt abs. She wanted to trace a finger along the vee that disappeared below the trim of his pants to see if it went down to his cock, which she knew would be large and bulging. It seemed hard to believe she’d been drooling over him since summer.

After she witnessed his body in scant clothing she wanted a piece of him.

Happy Day-After-Thanksgiving!

2010-11-26T00:01:00.044-05:00

Romance is in the air...

And I am thankful that it is, because I am, after all, primarily a romance author. There are many things to be thankful for and I will give a few of them here.

I am thankful that I am still here to be blogging today.

I am thankful that I still have my natural teeth, small and silly-looking as they are.

I am thankful that I have food to eat.

I am thankful that I have family and friends.

I am thankful that I have the good sense to not bury my head too deeply in the sand when frightened.

I am thankful for the ability to write books that people enjoy.

I am thankful that I found two good, solid publishers to submit my work to.

I am thankful for the wonderful friends who help me through the hard spots.

I am thankful that the world still exists, and that in spite of animosity and frustration, nations still are working toward the betterment of all, to a degree.

I am thankful that there are good people in this world who feel that charity and hope are not just women's names.

I am thankful for all of the marvelous sights and sounds and fragrances and tastes.

I am thankful that I can still see, and hear, and small, and taste.

I am thankful that God is not just another old-fashioned swear word.

I am thankful that there are still people in this world that are kind enough to extend a helping hand when it is desperately needed.

I am thankful that there are still people in this world who are smart enough to accept a helping hand when it is offered.

I am thankful that people love to read romance.

And I am thankful that I am still young enough to grow a brain, and still old enough to use it.

May all the blessings of this world be with all of you, and may you have the good sense to see them when they present themselves.

After all...things are what you make of them. Life gives us the building materials, but we are the ones who must use them.

Bless you all. Thanks for being my friends.

Hugs,

Fran Lee

http://www.franleeromance.com

Giving Thanks

2010-11-19T20:14:00.000-05:00

“More like a transcript of a skinamax flik than a novel,” a reader posted about Courting Kel. Which may make you wonder why I’m thankful for the remark. Because…sales had been more than a little slow, but since then have soared until they almost match those of my first erotic romance Passion’s Four Towers. So I’m thankful for the snarky remark and the readers who bought the book in spite of—or maybe because of it. I’m equally thankful for Ashira Datya’s Happy Ever After review, which earned 4 ½ Tea Cups.

What else am I thankful for?

That my darling husband was in the hospital when he suffered congestive heart failure. He was exactly where he needed to be and got immediate, life-saving care. I’m also thankful that he doesn’t remember anything about being intubated for two whole days while his lungs were cleared of pneumonia and he could breathe on his own. I’m especially thankful to the nurses who treated him with patience, allowing him to maintain his dignity during his week-long stay. And the doctors were great, as well, explaining things to my husband—who didn’t retain much of what they said. And to me—who doesn’t remember the specifics, but does remember feeling reassured about his recovery. And for friends who made sure work schedules were met and items were delivered on time. And for those who offered to do whatever they could to help me get through it all.

And now that he’s home, I’m ever thankful for his occasional irritability that he isn’t yet back to full strength!

May this holiday and every day bless you with all the people who make you thankful!

Dee Brice
Erotic Fantasies Where Nothing is Forbidden

Regencies Rule! Why is that?

2010-11-17T00:05:00.004-05:00

Today the 3rd in my best-selling Regency series debuts at wwww.resplendencepublishing.com and I am tickled about it and the success of The Stanhope Challenge books.

MISS DARLING'S INDECENT OFFER was a joy to write.

Today I ponder with you the undying popularity of Regency romances.

WHY IS THAT?

I have heard so many explanations.

1. Jane Austen's enduring popularity.

2. A gracious era.

3. The last gracious era.

4. A time of peace after decades of war.

5. A lighthearted moment in time.

6. The dawn of the modern era.

7. The explosion of wealth among the English.

8. The dawn of the Second Empire, before the challenges of ruling those colonies became a burden.

What are your thoughts on the popularity of Regency romances?

Would love to hear them!

And do go read this newest, and tell me what you think.

The first 2 (LORD STANHOPE'S IMPROPER PROPOSAL and LADY FEATHERSTONE'S FERVENT AFFAIR) have hit the top ten list for months now at AllRomanceEbooks.com and at Fictionwise.com as well as at Resplendence, too.

Ciao, bella!

Gettin' Lucky - Cougar Challenge Series

2010-11-14T05:24:00.004-05:00

A story in the Cougar Challenge series.

Marcy Brown can’t get enough of Lucky, her massage therapist. Lucky’s fingers always linger dangerously close to…sensitive areas, and ignite a fire she can’t ignore. Marcy isn’t looking for a relationship, but a friend with benefits would be right up her alley. The women of her fave blog, Tempt the Cougar, swear by younger men, but Marcy doesn’t want to train someone. She wants a man who can give her orgasm after orgasm.

Lucky offers to be her secret lover and help her realize all her fantasies. With Lucky, Marcy discovers the thrill of sexual positions and taboos she’s been missing out on—up to and including sex with two gorgeous men at once.

All bets are off when this Cougar is challenged to get her growl on.

An Excerpt From: GETTIN’ LUCKY
Copyright © AMBER SKYZE, 2010
All Rights Reserved, Ellora's Cave Publishing, Inc.
Chapter One

“Isn’t he hot, sweetie?”
“Mom!” Marcy groaned.
“What? Is there something wrong with me thinking the young doctor is sexy?”
“Mother, please.” Not that there was anything wrong with her admiring the younger doctor. Shit Marcy fantasized about younger men, but she kept it under wraps. She didn’t speak the words out loud.
Marcy wished she could crawl under a rock and die. They were in the recovery room. Her mother had just undergone surgery for her broken wrist. It wasn’t like they were alone. The room was full of other people who had come from surgery too, along with their family members. Marcy looked around to see if anyone else was listening to her mother’s tirade. She couldn’t believe her mother was talking about how hot the doctor was in front of all these people. Christ, he was young enough to be her son, possibly grandson.
“Thank you,” the doctor said. “Now I want you to rest for the next few days. No using those fingers, either. You need to give your body time to recuperate.”
“Anything you say, Doctor.”
Marcy watched as her mother made googly eyes at the doctor.
“Do you make house calls?” she asked, reaching out with her good hand to touch him.
He chuckled.
“They don’t allow us to go to patients’ homes, but I’ll see you in a few days at my office. All right?”
“If you insist.”
“I’ll see you soon.” He patted her mother’s leg before rushing off to his next patient.
Marcy looked down at her mother.
“I can’t believe you just said those things to the doctor, Mother,” she whispered.
“It’s all right, Ms. Brown,” the nurse said. “There’s nothing to be ashamed of. Lots of women enjoy the company of younger men.”
Not my mother and certainly not me. Though she couldn’t deny the growing attraction she’d been feeling for Lucky. Lately every time he massaged her he came dangerously close to her pussy, stirring up tingling sensations she hadn’t felt in a very long time. Thankfully her vibrator gave her the relief she craved after leaving her weekly massages, because she couldn’t risk losing Lucky. Entering into anything sexual with him would cross too many boundaries for her. She might have to change massage therapists and that would be a pity.
“I appreciate your understanding, but that doctor could be her grandson.” She knew she was exaggerating, but seriously. Her mother was too old to be drooling over the doctor.
The nurse laughed.
Marcy didn’t find anything funny about her mother fawning over the young stud. Yes, he was cute, not her type, but nice-looking.
“Stop being so uptight, Marcy. Just because Dan wasn’t smart enough to stick around doesn’t mean you’re a dead fish. You can have a little fun if you know what I mean.” Her mother winked.
Marcy wanted to flee the recovery room.
“It’s the anesthesia.” The nurse patted her hand.
“Thanks.” Marcy looked at her name tag. “Elizabeth.”
“No problem. I have a few things to check on, but I’ll be back shortly. Don’t worry about your mother. Once the anesthesia wears off she’ll probably forget the things she said.”
God she prayed the nurse was right. She couldn’t have her mother talking like this.
“I appreciate your understanding.”
The nurse nodded before heading off. She returned an hour later.
“Here are your discharge papers,” Elizabeth said. “And here’s something just in case your mom is serious.”
Marcy took the business card.
“Tempt the Cougar? What’s this?”
In a hushed tone, Elizabeth explained. “It’s a blog where women who want to experience the thrill of younger men gather.”
“Oh no. My mother definitely doesn’t need this.” Marcy attempted to hand the card back to her.
“Take it. You never know.”
“I’m sorry, but I do know. This is not something my mother would be interested in.”
Elizabeth shrugged.
“Then keep it for yourself. You never know, you might find it interesting.” She rushed off before Marcy could object.

Desperate Measures Release and excerpt

2010-11-04T03:54:00.004-05:00

Blurb:

Raine’s caught in an impossible situation. She needs to get to another planet to help her friend. Forced to take a temporary position on a Feiral trade ship, she’s surrounded by trouble and shifters determined to build a clan. She has secrets to keep, but the gorgeous captain could be a problem. She has to distract him—and a few nights of hot sex might work.

Connal knows Raine is more than she appears. He looks forward to peeling away the layers of her deception as much as stripping the clothes from her beautiful body. The hunger between them deepens even as he struggles to get past her defenses before she leaves his ship.

When they’re thrown together again, Raine’s faced with a choice. Walk away from Connal and choose the life she knows, or take a chance and grab the passion and love that waits.

Excerpt: Here Raine finds out that even a game of handball can lead to trouble when dealing with a sneaky Feiral Captain
Connal stood there wearing a too-innocent smile on his face. Her eyes ran over his mussed hair. To get her mind off going over there and smoothing it back into place, she lowered her gaze to what he was wearing and nearly groaned. His skin-tight, sleeveless blue and yellow shirt emphasized the breadth of his chest and the muscles in his arms. The snug, black shorts at his hips left little to her imagination and ended just above the knee. He wasn’t making it easy to resist temptation.

“Would you mind a partner? I need to get some exercise too.” He stood in the doorway as if he really had doubts about her answer.

She was certain he knew she’d say yes. Raine fumed. She suspected the jerk knew she didn’t want to draw any attention to herself and was blatantly using that against her. She’d have loved to have an excuse, any excuse, to walk right out that door, but thinking about Krissa and the danger she was facing focused Raine’s thoughts. For Krissa, she’d endure these exchanges with the captain and try to get out of here without getting into deeper trouble.

“Sure.” She smiled and bounced the ball on the floor. If she was lucky, she could “accidentally” hit him a time or two with it.

He took a position behind and to the right of her. She smelled a light spicy scent, but couldn’t identify it. That didn’t surprise her. Her sense of smell as well as taste was a little off because of the drug she was using to mask her scent and prevent her from finding her mate while on this jaunt.

When he was set, she threw the ball as hard as she could. As it hit the wall, she dropped back. She saw Connal run forward. He caught the ball and threw it almost in the same motion. Mentally, she couldn’t help admire the lithe grace of his body, but she didn’t have time to think about it. She ran forward to take her turn.

She caught and lobbed the sphere at a sharp angle so that it hit the back wall and careened off the side wall. He cursed beneath his breath and dashed for it, catching it just before it hit the back wall again. She smiled and ran to get it when he hurled it. She lost track of time as they played, intent only on the game. He tossed the ball at a low, wicked angle and she ran for it. She was so intent on getting to the ball before it hit the back wall that she didn’t notice him in front of her until she hit his chest.

Air exploded from her and she grabbed his shirt. The world seemed to tilt and she realized they were falling only a breath before they hit the floor. Slamming against his chest again didn’t help her get her breath back. Her chest felt tight and she was acutely aware of her body pressing against his. His arms had locked around her, holding her tight to him, probably to prevent her from being hurt during the fall, but he hadn’t released her. She pushed against his chest, trying to put a little distance between them. It only pressed her hips more firmly against his. She was too damn aware of the way his cock pressed against her stomach and how hard that part of him felt. She wanted to grind against him and forget about all the reasons why she should keep her distance.

“Sorry about not moving out of your way.” He brushed a hand over her hair. “Are you all right?”

“I should probably be asking you that question. I ran into you and I don’t think you had much of a chance to shield yourself from that landing. Are you hurt?” She looked up at him. His lips were tilted up into a friendly smile and she didn’t see any sign of pain on his face.

His leg moved a little and one of her legs fell between his. She hadn’t thought it would be possible without removing a few clothes, but the situation became more intimate. Her pussy was pressed against his muscular leg and his hand slid down to her buttocks. His fingers molded over the curve and it was all she could do to stop herself from rocking her hips forward. She swallowed heavily. Damn, this had to stop now.

“I’m good. You didn’t hurt me. You feel wonderful.” He drew in a deep breath. “Although this wasn’t how I envisioned learning that.”

“Um, thanks. How about we get up, before this gets too… We have a game to finish.” She bit her lip. She hadn’t intended to say anything about it getting too involved or too hard to resist. It wouldn’t take a genius to figure out what she’d meant. The captain was far from dense. He’d know what she meant.

“I think you owe me a forfeit for nearly taking me out. You could have hurt me and I wouldn’t be able to complete my duties.” His lips straightened and he looked utterly serious.

“I could have just as easily been hurt and you were the one who didn’t get out of the way like you were supposed to.” She raised an eyebrow, trying to resist the urge to grin at the blatant flirting.

“According to some you should have been watching out for the other player as well as where the ball is going.” His hand tightened and the leg between her thighs lifted, pressing against her more firmly.

His muscled leg pressed too close to her aching clit. She longed to grind down on the thick column to get the pressure she needed, but forced herself to remain still. How in hell could he tempt her so much without really caressing her? If she stayed on top of him for too much longer, he wouldn’t be left in any doubt of her interest in him. Her juices would soak right through her shorts and probably through his.

“They’d be wrong, but let’s say I pay this forfeit. What would it be?” She tilted her head and waited for him to answer. She really expected him to ask her to join him for dinner. That was something that would allow him to get closer to her, but still not be too threatening.

“I want a kiss. If you kiss me, I’ll release you and we can go back to the game.” His eyes locked on her lips.

She had to fight hard not to slick her tongue over her lips. Damn, that was a step she hadn’t thought he’d take this quickly. But it was just a kiss, she reasoned. She could control it, keep it light and friendly. Maybe it would even dissuade his pursuit. If he thought there was no chemistry between them, he might back away from her and let one of the other men approach her. That could only work to the better for her. None of them drew her as much as he did. She couldn’t stop thinking about what it would feel like to fuck him anytime she was near him. That was supremely bad, because she needed to remember the mission and what was at stake at all times.

“Okay, a kiss, but once I kiss you, you have to let me go. I’m two points away from beating you.” She planted a hand on his chest. She pressed up enough to let him know that she was serious.

“One kiss and I’ll let you go.” He seemed smug now that he had her agreement.

She didn’t know if a kiss was all he wanted. Maybe he just wanted to see if they were compatible or to see if it was more than curiosity and surface attraction. She couldn’t control his reaction, but she could do her best to keep the kiss short and cool. And then get off him.

She took a deep breath. She brushed her lips lightly over his, determined to make it as impersonal as she possibly could. He didn’t make a move, leaving her to kiss him. She knew a buss on the lips wasn’t what he meant and he’d call her on it if she tried to keep it that short. She lapped at his lips until he opened them for her. His lack of reaction challenged her. She wanted him to at least respond to her before she pulled back from the kiss. She stroked her tongue against his. His hand laced through her hair. He tasted so good, she wanted to taste more and especially to see more. His tongue brushed against hers and he sucked at her tongue as if trying to draw her into him. The hand at her butt tightened, pulling her against him. The pressure of his thigh pushing against her pussy nearly made her moan. It felt too good. A low growl rumbled from him. She felt it through her entire body and it sent a thrill of excitement through her. She’d never had a shifter lover and the primal sounds of appreciation shot through her, inciting a deep need to respond.

She tore her mouth free from his. Her breath came in harsh pants. That hadn’t gone as planned. There had been nothing light or impersonal about that. Kissing had been a mistake. She’d thought to dissuade him from pursuing her, but she’d proven something entirely different to herself. She wasn’t going to be able to stay away from him even for the few days of the transit to Forunes. What in hell was she going to do? The pull to him became worse every time she saw him. It was the most intense attraction she’d ever felt to a man. She felt so out of control it scared her.

Had a fabulous time!

2010-10-26T00:00:00.011-05:00

Me and C J Hollenbach

Romanticon was a total blast!

Meeting so many of my online pals face-to-face was wonderful, and meeting a large number of the people I did interviews with on My Examiner.com column last year was loads of fun! Of course, I could have done without the nasty cold I came home with! Thank heavens it waited until I was on the way home.

Next year I will remember to take my trusty Airborne with me. I left it sitting on the cabinet when I packed up my herbals. Never again will I leave home without it!

I don't think I have ever stayed in a multi-level hotel/motel where they didn't have an elevator. I got more exercise climbing stairs ten times a day that I have gotten in the past two years since I retired and became a computer-potato. And the Cavemen were SO nice to me...offering to help me get up to my room when I was about to collapse. Such sweet boys! I wish I could have taken them home on the plane, but there is some silly law against kidnapping. Such a waste! Sigh.

It was wonderful fun signing print books at the Sunday book signing. But carrying home all the books I bought was the pits. They were about thirty pounds of heavy, heavy books! Ah, well...they were worth the trouble.

For those who were there with me, I want to tell you how great it was to meet and talk with you. For those who couldn't make it after trying so hard to get there, I wish you all the good luck in the world to make it there next year. You were sorely missed!

Fran Lee

Apheli Solution now available!

2010-10-22T07:24:00.000-05:00

When Danamara Higgins is attacked by a vampire, her life turns upside down. Vampire Bootcamp class seems to be the answer to her prayers. In her wildest dreams, she doesn’t consider meeting not just one, but two hunky vampires who take her—in the car, in the shower, in the living room, in the hot tub, in hand—as they teach her everything she’ll need to know about her new vampire life.

For centuries, Pierre has loved and pursued Julian with no success. After a hostile takeover of Julian’s financial assets, Pierre is positive Julian will have nowhere else to turn. Julian, though, chooses to teach the Vampire Bootcamp class rather than surrender to Pierre on unequal terms. When one of Julian’s students approaches him for help identifying her sire, Julian is stunned that she is his alpheli—an extremely rare mate whose blood will allow him to subsist on real food. What will that mean to his love-hate relationship with Pierre?

There are just one or two problems. Danamara is descended from Pierre’s bloodline. And she’s on someone’s hit list. Julian and Pierre find unexpected erotic rewards and eternal love when they join together in a brutal war to protect their alpheli’s life.

I'm so excited~~my first vampire novel is available today! I fell in love with Julian, Pierre and Danamara. Check it out at Resplendence Publishing.

anny

RomantiCon Two

2010-10-20T11:01:00.002-05:00

Sophomore… Can that sophomore year or book live up to its predecessor? Or can it surpass what came before? In the case of Ellora’s Cave, its sophomore RomantiCon was a resounding success.

Held in the same motel (only the name was changed) I enjoyed the same warm and helpful motel staff and yummy food. And while the service is still a little slow (I suspect due to shortages in both kitchen and wait staff) the cheerful attitudes more than compensated.

Raelene reprised her “Act it Out” workshop to the same hilarious responses as last year. New workshops included World Building (from both a plotter and a pantser’s points of view), the advisability of using and how to select a pen name, and a no-holds-barred “Family Feud” style contest. I wish all the workshops were taped—not only because of the great information—but also because of the workshops I missed. Especially the reader input sessions.

Oh well, oh dear. Maybe next year I’ll figure out a way to clone myself so I can attend them all. (Yeah, sure. That’s gonna happen along with losing weight and exercising!)

Glad rags reigned at EC’s tenth anniversary 1920s style party. Gotta love those Cavemen, their picture-perfect chests, and their jaunty fedoras. Not to mention gyrating hips and all those other moving parts. Ymmm-Ohhh!

Saturday night found me near and in tears when Jaid Black (EC’s founder) gave her heart-wrenching speech, including thanking us for making her dreams come true. We—authors and readers alike—owe her several enormous thanks for letting us write and read the stories that touch our hearts and arouse our senses. And how great was it to meet the cover models and author of the “book that started it all”—The Empress’ New Clothes? A great, HOT read.

Two semi sad semi happy events also occurred. Martha Punches told us that our donations allowed her family to give scholarships to some deserving folks. And Jaid told us about a family being destroyed by some horrible, thus far untreatable illness. Jaid made a generous donation to research into this devastating disease.

Forgive me, Jaid and Martha, I was crying so hard I don’t remember either organization’s name.

On a much happier note…the Sunday pizza party was a return to nonsense and fun. Lots of great pizza and bingo prizes, along with constant laughter every time Ruby Storm’s sister Sue moved. (Imagine a decorated giant phallus and dangling balls atop a Stetson. That’ll give you an idea.) I hope someone posted pictures, because my poor description can’t’ even begin to tell you how funny it was. Sue won the best hat award—not that there was ever any doubt of that!

And did I mention the gorgeous Cavemen? Rodney, Jason, and Angelo stayed after the others had gone, and filled the evening with lots of eye-candy as they called the bingo games, giving out prizes and hugs.

So there we are. Another successful conference—due in no small part to Jeannia and Val and the other EC folks who put their hearts and hard work into it. And Sue said, the only problem is how to make next year even better.

I can’t wait to find out!

Dee Brice

Erotic Fantasies Where Nothing is Forbidden

Those shower scenes!

2010-10-17T00:08:00.006-05:00

Showers. Floors. Chairs. Tables.

Places to make love abound!

Tell us your favorites.

These 3 to the left? Like poolside and angled against cars.

Some of my favorite love scenes have been against walls and on chaise longues.

I get a kick of trying to make them different each time and appropriate to the lovers and their challenges.

What are your favorite places in books or real life to make love?

And, yeah, you could throw in where you don't like.

Sandy beaches. Oh, gritty. Cement floors. Hard on elbows and knees.

Do go see how these 3 get on together October 20 over at EC. www.jasminejade.com/ps-8700-50-hat-trick.aspx

Ciao, bella!

RomantiCon 2010

2010-10-14T08:48:00.001-05:00

Prepping for the conference was intense and started about six months ago. I made lots of goodie bags and I’m happy to say that most of them were gone by the time I left on Sunday.
RomantiCon 2010 is over, but far from forgotten. The partying went on for four days straight and let me tell you I enjoyed every last moment. I got to spend some time with Cindy Spencer Pape and Anny Cook. These two women are incredible. I had so much fun getting to know them better. They made this shy author feel right at home.
All the women of the Cougar Challenge series did the same. Hugs were plentiful over the weekend. I also had a chance to meet a new author – Shoshanna Evers. I sat down next to her in a workshop and introduced myself. She immediately said, “Oh I’ve read your work.”
I blushed, surprised that someone read my stuff. I know there are people out there buying my books, but I’ve never had someone sit next to me and tell me.
Then there was this reader, Cindy, who came up to me at the booksigning who had a star next to my name. She just had to meet me. It was so exciting to think someone wanted to seek me out. :o)
While I was a newbie when it came to conferences, the fellow readers and authors made everyone feel right at home.
Then there were the Cavemen. Oh they are hot and so very friendly. They didn’t have that I’m too sexy for you complex. They were down to earth and ready to show everyone a good time. Angelo, who is on the cover of my Dante’s Desire book, was kind enough to autograph a cover flat for me. Speaking of when he walked in to the meet and greet the DH said, “I know him. He’s all over our house!”
He is…I just love my cover.
Overall it was an amazing time and I’m really looking forward to next year.
In other news – Book Three in the Freedom Fantasies series PLAY WITH ME comes out tomorrow. :o)

Optimism

2010-09-22T08:20:00.001-05:00

Some people are primarily pessimists, always seeing life through a dark glass. Others are optimists, always expecting the best outcome from every turn in the road. A little pessimism is good. It prevents the unwary from falling victim to scams and predators. But too much pessimism makes for a very negative life.

Optimists tend to be cheerful and calm. After all, they're expecting good things...right?

As with all things, too much of a good thing can be destructive or dangerous. When my son jumped off the six foot wall in front of our house, his unwavering faith that he would be all right didn't prevent him from breaking most of the bones in his feet. That's where a little bit of healthy pessimism would have come in handy.

With all things in life balance is the key.

anny

Blue Paradise

2010-09-22T08:19:00.000-05:00

Look what I have! The cover for book five of the Mystic Valley series, Blue Paradise. I don't have a release date yet, but I'll let you know as soon as I do. In the meantime, enjoy the eye-candy!

anny

GREAT NEWS!

2010-09-19T15:42:00.002-05:00

First, eXtasy Books, my second e-book publisher, is looking for submissions. Check them out at eXtasybooks.com. Click on the Shop Now to get to the guidelines (on the left side of the page.

You'll find my Saving Ryan's Privates in the New Releases block and Chosen on the Coming Soon pages. Chosen is targeted for release in February, 2011 but may be released sooner.

I can't tell you how excited I am to work with the folks at eXtasy Books. Their response time is incredible and the cover art is intriguing and whimsical.

On another note, please look at joining EPIC (Electronic Publishing Industry Coalition). They sponsor several competitions: E-Awards (formerly the Eppies) for e-books, the Ariana for cover art, and Young Voices for young authors looking to have their writing skills assessed.

GREAT NEWS!

2010-09-19T15:41:00.000-05:00

GREAT NEWS

2010-09-19T15:35:00.000-05:00

Today at EC, erotic thriller from Desiree Holt and Cerise DeLand!

2010-09-17T00:09:00.010-05:00

Award-winner Desiree Holt and I have penned a STEAMY thriller for you!
First in a series starring a team of female ops, UNTIL THE DAWN takes you on a big ride from Washington power circles to torrid Texas where the clues keep coming that someone near and dear is importing illegal arms. Maddie Sommers finds clues that lead her to the man responsible. Meanwhile, another man whom she had personally hired to help her with research is now discovering new facts about her...in her bed.
UNTIL THE DAWN, first in the Nemesis series at http://www.jasminejade.com/, debuts today.
Nemesis. Danger has new mistresses: Very special ops. By 2 award-winning authors of romantic suspense. You'll be thrilled.
(Buy link: www.jasminejade.com/ps-8497-50-until-the-dawn.aspx )

New Releases - Adrift and Spend The Night With Me

2010-09-14T08:15:00.005-05:00

I'm celebrating two new releases. One today Adrift from Loose Id and one tomorrow Spend The Night With Me from Ellora's Cave. Here is a taste of both new books:

This is my first book with Loose Id. I'm very excited about this book and enjoyed writing about a heroine who wasn't Barbie sized.

“I expect everyone to be there.” Mr. Carlton stood up and continued talking to the small group in the conference room. “My wife looks forward to this every year, so I don’t want to disappoint her. There will be boats at the dock to take people back and forth to Carlton Island.”
Kari cringed just thinking about getting into a boat and being escorted over to her boss’s island. The last thing she wanted to do over her weekend was spend it with him and fellow coworkers. Kari enjoyed the peace and serenity of her apartment. She didn’t have to make small talk except with Pepper, her cat.
Last year she’d been able to get out of the company picnic, but something told her this time she wouldn’t be so lucky.
“This is bullshit.”
Kari swiveled her chair to see who else felt like she did, but was brave enough to voice his opinion. She was met with the most amazing blue eyes.
Ben.
Her heart caught in her throat. Was he speaking to me?
Ben Eckhart hadn’t uttered a word to her in the three years he’d worked at Carlton Technologies. Kari had admired him from afar, knowing he’d never be interested in someone like her. She wasn’t a size 2 pinup model like Ben probably dated.
“Does he think we don’t have a life outside of work?”
He was talking to her.
Hanging out on her deck with a book wasn’t in the cards for her this weekend.
“Have you ever been?” he asked.
“Once. I’ve managed to escape all the other yearly get-togethers, but I don’t see that happening this weekend.”
“I heard people have gotten let go for not attending.”
She’d heard that too, but thankfully it hadn’t happened to her. With the economy in dire straits, she wasn’t risking it this year. “That’s what they say. I can’t afford to take any chances. I’ll be going.”
“Me too, I guess.”
Kari groaned inwardly. She didn’t want to spend the weekend lusting over Ben. At work she could cover up her scars, but on Carlton Island she’d be expected to dress more casually.
Maybe she could think of a way out of this.
“Spouses and significant others are more than welcome too,” Mr. Carlton continued.
Kari turned her attention back to her boss. Right about now, she wished she had someone in her life she could bring along to ease the pain of watching Ben. Fortunately he wasn’t aware of her feelings for him.
He leaned closer to her chair and whispered in her ear. “You bringing someone?” Heat from his breath trickled down her neck, straight to her core. Images of Ben wearing only swim trunks filled her mind. She pictured a hard, smooth chest and abs of steel she could run her fingers along.
“No,” she snapped.
“Sorry. I didn’t mean to offend you.”
She swiveled her chair slightly and glanced over her shoulder. His lips were close. Close enough that if she leaned just a little bit, she could graze them with her own. “I didn’t mean to snap. I’m just really frustrated about having to go this weekend. I’m going alone.”
“Hmmm. I guess I’ll see you there.”
“Guess so.”
Mr. Carlton ended the meeting. Kari gathered her notebook, pen, and coffee mug before heading back to her office. She wondered if Ben would be coming alone or if he would be bringing some lucky lady.
She prayed he came alone. He’d broken the ice by talking to her in the meeting. Maybe they could get to know each other better over the weekend.
As she sat in her chair, she realized she was fooling herself. Ben would never be interested in a size 12 disfigured woman. Even if he did show an interest, Kari couldn’t take her clothes off for him. Her scars were a reminder that she’d never have a love life again. It was bad enough that the memories of that horrible night still haunted her; visible scars stared back from the mirror. They screamed at her, taunting that she’d be lonely the rest of her life.

This will be available Sept 15th

It’s time to put these away. I need to move on. It’s time for closure.
Brooke stared at the pictures scattered all over the floor. They’d haunted her for over eighteen months. Memories of what she had lost. Memories of what she should’ve had. The one and only love of her life. Carl.
He’d been gone for a long time. She would never forget that dreadful day when her future mother-in-law had called with the news. Carl had been killed by a suicide bomber. He was only days away from coming home. Instead he’d returned in a body bag.
It was time for her to get back to the living. She needed companionship. She wanted to feel a man’s strong arms around her again. The need to feel safe and secure grew with each passing day. And if she was honest with herself, she needed sex. Down-and-dirty sex.
She’d been lonely for so long. She wanted to remember how it felt to have a man ravish her body.
Kim, one of her best friends, had been offering to set her up in a room over at Freedom Fantasies forever. Freedom Fantasies wasn’t just any old place. It was a Manor where women went to live out their fantasies.
Paige, her other best friend, had recently rekindled her marriage there. Maybe it was time she had some fun—even if for only one night.
Looking around the apartment she’d once shared with Carl, she realized how much of him was still there. Pictures were everywhere. On the entertainment center, the end tables, even in the kitchen. There were constant reminders of their life together. It wasn’t healthy for her to continue to obsess over him. He was gone and he was never coming back. It was time she realized the truth.
Quickly, she got off the floor and started collecting all the photos. She placed them in a big pile on her bed. From the closet in the spare room she retrieved an old empty box she’d kept for future storage. This was the perfect time to pack away Carl’s photos. It was time to let go.
She stacked the photos one by one neatly into the box. Once they were all safe, she tucked the box away in the closet. She didn’t want to forget Carl, she just wanted to move on.
His closet had been emptied because his family wanted some of his belongings. She’d kept a few shirts, which she occasionally wore around the house. She liked having his scent lingering. His dog tags hung around her neck as a constant reminder of what they could have had—what was taken away by a suicide bomber.
She removed the tags and brought them to the closet where she packed them away with all his pictures.
As she passed the mirror, she stopped. When had she started to look so old? At thirty she wasn’t old. She looked tired and worn-out. She examined her reflection more closely. Her blue eyes were cold and empty. Her blonde hair appeared lifeless. Had she really been presenting herself to the world looking like this?
She rushed into the bathroom and turned on the shower. After giving her hair a thorough shampooing and conditioning she blew it dry. Using her large round brush, she added volume. She added makeup to her drab complexion.
Upon inspection she liked what she saw. She looked more her age again. She didn’t look old and beaten. It was time to put on some sexy clothes and hop over to the Manor. While she wasn’t going to have Kim set her up, she was going to mingle in the bar area. Maybe she’d find someone who intrigued her all by herself. There was nothing Brooke despised more than being hooked up.
While she was there she’d pop in on her friend and see how she was doing.

Lisia's Journey

2010-09-04T07:30:00.001-05:00

I've been really forgetful about coming here to post, but this time I did notice that the 4th was coming up! So to make up for it, I thought I'd sneak in a gorgeous cover. I'd even go so far as to say drool worthy cover. That word certainly fits the guy on the cover. He's certainly a good representation of the hero in the Lisia's Journey.

And to further tempt and tease, here's a bit of the first meeting between Lisia and her hero Jarritt.

The hair on the back of her neck rose and uneasy feeling crawled up her spine. The feeling tore her thoughts away from the forest. Someone was watching her. She rolled her shoulders, unconsciously trying to lift the almost physical weight of someone’s stare. Cautiously, she looked around the group of people, but couldn’t see anyone even looking at her much less focusing on her with the intensity she felt.

Something moving across a faint gap in the bushes caught her eyes. The big dark feline shape continued moving. She saw it walk past a tree just in front of the first Aridi males. A big black Aridi in animal form stepped out in front of the group. A ruff of black hair surrounded the large round head, designating it as a male in the prime of his life. Dark brown eyes looked over the group, locking onto her.

The big male stalked forward powerful muscles moving beneath the sleek dark coat. He growled as he moved forward, snarling at one of the UDA soldiers who just happened to be in his way. His lips pulled back revealing dagger sharp teeth. The soldier hastily backed away.

Lisia frowned. She could feel his arousal and a strong wave of possessiveness pulsing over her. A strong clear feeling. Not the light brush of emotion an Aridi usually felt from another person. His scent hit her, musky with a spicy undertone and too appealing. Who was he? She was sure she hadn’t met him anywhere. She’d have remembered feeling this connection with someone.

He came closer until his muzzle pressed into her leg. He drew in a deep breath and rumbling purr rolled through his body. Lisia practically felt the jolt of arousal slam through him. His head moved and pressed against her crotch. Her mouth dropped open in shock. At first, she just stared down at him. Shaking her head, she pushed away the last of the surprise. She grabbed handfuls of the rough black hair on the sides of his head and held him. Stepping back, she looked down into the large rounded face.

“Get your face out of there. I don’t know you.” She frowned down at him, keeping her arms straight.

“For future reference, the Shi’an’s name is Jarritt E’sain,” Arik advised. “I’d say he wants to know you.”

“This is the Shi’an?” She glanced over at the man, but didn’t loosen her fingers from the thick mane she was holding.

The big Aridi was still trying to get close to her. Fortunately, he wasn’t using all of his strength. She knew he was letting her put some distance between them, but she was simply happy for the space. The combination of his emotions hitting her and her embarrassment over the position was a little overwhelming. That wasn’t a common greeting even among an exclusively Aridi group. She ran her eyes over the large animal. Just judging from his size and build in animal form he had to be tall and well muscled.

“Yes. Now do you have something to tell us?” Arik’s voice sounded annoyingly cheerful.

She took a deep breath and then licked her lips. The situation had just exploded in her face and she couldn’t think of a way out of it. She didn’t know if it could get any worse. If it could, she didn’t want to know about it. There was no denying the truth now. Not after big and furry had gotten personal.

Lisia's Journey releases 9/17/10

Coming soon from Ellora's Cave...

2010-08-26T00:01:00.009-05:00

Woman on Fire

Fran Lee

Coming soon from Ellora's Cave

September 3, 2010

Azrael Thunder Horse never thought he would ever see another Anglo woman who could possibly knock him for a loop after leaving Hollywood. Despite the instant shot of lust he feels when he first lays eyes on his new Native American Studies teacher, he is determined to get rid of her. After all…she misled him with that damn Indian name of hers! How could he know she was not NA? But the stubborn redhead has a thing or two to say about him firing her on the spot.

Cheyenne Red Wolf has never met a more maddening, arrogant…downright irritating man. He hates her on sight. Too bad he’s the hottest thing she has ever seen…and he’s her new boss. The man tried to fire her because she wasn’t a “real” Indian. Good thing he can’t stand her, because she sure as hell couldn’t say no to all that sexy, hardheaded, Lakota masculinity. He is the man from her dream…and no matter what he thinks of her, she has it bad for the man…

An Excerpt From: WOMAN ON FIRE

“Can I help you?” Her quickly pasted on smile was polite and pleasant. Probably a parent, checking out the new teacher. Damn. They didn’t build single males like him these days.

Night-dark eyes slid past her, wandered around the classroom slowly, and then returned to her. Eyes that would normally have set her pulse off like a shot, but these held a cold, aloof quality that let her know she was beneath his interest.

“Is Ms. Red Wolf still here?” The dark-chocolate voice held a quiet, tense note.

“I’m Cheyenne Red Wolf.” She repeated the polite smile. “How can I help you?”

The look of shock in those obsidian eyes made her bite back a grin. It wasn’t an unusual reaction to her definitely un-Indian looks attached to a very Indian name. But the desire to grin dissolved the instant those eyes turned angry.

“You are Cheyenne Red Wolf? Our new Native American Studies teacher?” Every word was clipped and reflected a fury that was barely held at bay.

She moved away from the bookshelf and resisted the urge to cross her arms defensively over her chest. The animosity rolling off that man was enough to choke her. It was only through sheer willpower that she didn’t cut and run. He took a step toward her and she had to crane her neck to meet his glare. She drew herself up to her tallest possible height which wasn’t much over five foot six in shoes and lifted her chin slightly in answer to his unspoken but clearly heard challenge. Damn! She wished now that she’d worn heels.

Forcing her voice to remain softly calm wasn’t easy. “I am. And you are…?” she coached gently, refusing to retreat as he invaded her personal space with all that hulking, broad-shouldered menace he exuded.

His eyes moved from the copper-penny red hair she’d dragged back into a bun before her first class, all the way down her fuzzy blue cardigan sweater and travel-wrinkled beige linen slacks to her vintage fifties penny loafers, then back with a disbelieving insolence that was as insulting as it was scary. Every nerve in her body screamed at her to take a few steps back and get a desk between them, but she’d be damned if she’d let him intimidate her.

She had no real reason to fear him, after all—it was broad daylight and they were in a school full of—empty classrooms. Oh, shit. As the realization hit her that regular classes had let out over half an hour ago, and most of the teachers were gone for the day, she inhaled slowly and wondered if maybe it might be wiser if she turned tail and sprinted for the still open door.

But her common sense returned after one panicky moment, and she frowned at her own silliness. What the hell was he gonna do? Attack her? He was understandably shocked to find a non-Native American woman teaching a class that should by all rights be taught by a Native American. There were a lot of Native Americans who resented what she did, simply because she was not one of them. Not really. And being one in spirit didn’t quite cut the mustard.

She made a point of glancing at her watch and lifted her eyes back to his face. “I really can’t take time to go over lesson plans right now. If you’ll just tell me which student is yours, I can give you a call tomorrow—”

“There’s been a mistake, Ms. Red Wolf.” The voice was low and controlled.

“A mistake?” She had to work damn hard to keep a tremor of anger out of her own voice.

Those almost-too-damn-sexy-to-be-real lips twisted into a sneer as he seemed to loom even closer in the suddenly airless classroom. “A big one.”

Her breath caught in her throat and she hated the fact that she was shaking under his glare. “If you have a problem with me teaching this class, you’ll need to take it up with Mr. Wyatt or Ms. Running Deer of the school board. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have someone waiting.” A lie was better than letting him think she had no backup here.

“He can keep on waiting.” The clipped statement startled her, but only because it was coupled with another forward movement of that intimidating body that had somehow moved so close she could feel the heat sizzling off him through her clothes.

This guy had absolutely no friggin’ concept of personal space.

She suddenly decided that retreat was entirely acceptable under such unfriendly fire. She took a quick step backward and felt the bite of a wooden desk on the soft flesh of her fanny. The startled gasp she gave seemed to make those nearly black eyes darken even more, and she blushed hotly to have let him know he frightened her. Her temper rose.

When under attack, counter attack, Frank had always said.

“Excuse me—whoever you are—but if you have a complaint about me teaching your child, like I said, take it up with the school board and the principal, who felt I was very well qualified—”

She gave a yelp of shock as a book that had been too close to the edge of the desk she was nearly sitting on fell to the floor with a resounding smack, and she jumped away from the desk automatically, coming into full frontal contact with her tormentor. And he didn’t miss a beat as he caught her around the waist with a pair of lean, strong hands and glared down at her.

His beautiful lip curled. “Just like a woman—trying to use any weapon at hand to avoid the consequences of her actions.” His voice was scathing and she blinked up at him, not getting his meaning.

“Weapon? Consequences? What the hell are you talking about?” she gasped and shoved at his hands without much success as she twisted to try to get free.

“Those weapons.” He hissed a breath inward through his teeth as her hips twisted against his. Her movements brought her generous chest tight against his. His rasping words instantly halted her movements as she realized what he was talking about and her eyes widened in horror, then narrowed in fury. Damn, but the man was blaming her for his own actions now.

“If you will take your hands off me, I will happily remove my weapons from your vicinity,” she hissed, her temper flaring at his insinuation that she was trying to use sex to escape whatever “consequences” he imagined were due her. It didn’t take a Rhodes Scholar to get his meaning and it didn’t take much imagination to realize their confrontation had produced a hard-on from hell on his part. It was jabbing against her belly quite insistently. It had already grown even larger and more dangerous in the several seconds they’d been plastered together.

For a moment, he didn’t respond, and in that tense moment she sensed that he was considering his next response with extreme care. Her incensed glare met his and she waited with lips compressed and indignant fury in her expression. Dark eyes warred with blue. It became a battle of wills as he remained tautly silent, staring down into her furious face without any change in his expression of angry disdain. His hands remained firmly clamped around her body, making it impossible to move away without a struggle, and she’d be damned if she was going to give him his jollies by wiggling and twisting against him to try to get loose again. His hands were long and powerful. The pads of his fingertips rested firmly on the upper swell of her buttocks. The sensations running rampant inside her traitorous pussy were indescribable.

After what felt like hours of silent, glaring antagonism so thick it could easily be cut with a knife, she irritably decided the only way she was going to get him to let go of her was to say something. She slowly drew a shaky breath and spoke in a low, careful tone like one might use when talking to a suicide jumper on a ledge. “How about you and me calling a truce? You take your hands off me, and we’ll both back away. Then maybe you can calmly tell me what the hell you are so damn bent out of shape over.”

Do you vote?

2010-08-23T10:08:00.002-05:00

Not too long ago, I was sent an e-mail detailing the trials women went through to earn the right to vote. If I could post the entire thing, I would, but I can't figure out how to do it so I'm going to post the highlights.

I'm sorry I don't know who wrote the original e-mail. All the headers and info was deleted. But I believe it's still important enough to pass on. If anyone knows who wrote this post, please let me know! I would like to credit it to the correct woman.

Read it. And then make sure you vote!

Last week, I went to a sparsely attended screening of HBO's new movie 'Iron Jawed Angels.' It is a graphic depiction of the battle these women waged so that I could pull the curtain at the polling booth and have my say. I am ashamed to say I needed the reminder.

All these years later, voter registration is still my passion. But the actual act of voting had become less personal for me, more rote. Frankly, voting often felt more like an obligation than a privilege. Sometimes it was inconvenient.

My friend Wendy, who is my age and studied women's history, saw the HBO movie, too. When she stopped by my desk to talk
about it, she looked angry. She was--with herself. 'One thought kept coming back to me as I watched that movie,' she said. 'What would those women think of the way I use, or don't use, my right to vote? All of us take it for granted now, not just younger women, but those of us who did seek to learn.' The right to vote, she said, had become valuable to her 'all over again.'

HBO released the movie on video and DVD . I wish all history, social studies and government teachers would include the movie in their curriculum I want it shown on Bunco night, too, and anywhere else women gather. I realize this isn't our usual idea of socializing, but we are not voting in the numbers that we should be, and I think a little shock therapy is in order.

It is jarring to watch Woodrow Wilson and his cronies try to persuade a psychiatrist to declare Alice Paul insane so that she could be permanently institutionalized. And it is inspiring to watch the doctor refuse. Alice Paul was strong, he said, and brave. That didn't make her crazy.

The doctor admonished the men: 'Courage in women is often mistaken for insanity.'

Please, if you are so inclined, pass this on to all the women you know. We need to get out and vote and use this right that was fought so hard for by these very courageous women. Whether you vote democratic, republican or independent party - remember to vote.

anny

RWA Orlando

2010-08-20T10:11:00.001-05:00

I always promise myself I’ll keep a journal when I attend conferences but…we all know where good intentions lead. So I won’t tell you about the two-hour flight extension due to mechanical difficulties. I arrived in Orlando, debarked into humidity so overwhelming I thought I’d gone blind. I thank the gods that nothing worse than my glasses fogging had happened. DH got us to the hotel and, after checking in and unpacking, we headed to the bar.

Wednesday, I registered then went in search of somebody who could tell me if I was signing at the Readers for Life event that night. (I wasn’t on the signing list on RWA’s website.) They had my books and promise I’d even have space and a nameplate. I had both! And a constant delivery of water during the entire two-hour event! Thanks to whoever thought to add that to the signing process, which raised over $55,000.00 for literacy! Way to go, RWA!

Ellora’s Cave sponsored a get-together for its authors following the signing. It gave us a chance to sit down with each other, snack on fruits and desserts and get yet another wonderful goodie from EC! They do treat us right.

Thursday the conference began in earnest with the fastest Annual General Meeting (AGM) in history! I think it lasted all of twelve minutes. No quorum, no new business. For those of you planning to attend future conferences, please attend the AGM or give your proxy to someone who is attending. Yes, the AGM is generally dry as dust, but it’s where individual members have a chance to voice our opinions. It’s a very important meeting.

Workshops began after lunch, following an inspiring keynote address from Nora Roberts. One-hundred-sixty-five published books and still counting. And a wonderful speaker, too!

Friday, more workshops, spotlights on publishers and—joy of joys!—book signings with free books and an opportunity for brief visits with some of my favorite authors. Another inspiring address by Jayne Ann Krentz.

Saturday was more of the same, with the entire event capped by the Rita and Golden Heart ceremony.

Complaints? I have a few.

The miserable humidity that comes with having the conference in July/August in locations known for it. Take a look at the schedule for the next few years: NYC, Atlanta and San Antonio. As a third generation Californian, I can only pray Anaheim will offer some respite. At least, the humidity may not knock us flat on our…

Of course, there’s that all-too-frequent need to house attendees in other hotels. I don’t know if it’s due to late registration or RWA having to compete with other conventions. As far as I know, all attendees were on the beautiful Epcot Resorts property and were within (melting) walking distance. I chose to stay at the Swan so I could avoid the elevator-use contention at the Dolphin—although I haven’t heard any complaints about the elevators there.

Beware of those at the Marriott Marquis, however. They’ve been known to get stuck just when you’re in a hurry to get someplace—like an editor or agent appointment!

Overall, I rate this conference well above average. Yes, I wish I’d had the opportunity to go to Nashville and stay at the Gaylord. I hope RWA will reschedule that location in the near future—and maybe during spring or fall, although I’m not holding my breath. But, considering all that happened, Orlando turned out just fine.

Meeting old friends, making new. Learning more about my craft and coming home with all those beautiful books. There really is a heaven!

Today is my birthday and as I reflect on what I wanted to be when I grew up

2010-08-17T00:01:00.000-05:00

Today is my umpti-smurgilicious Birthday! As I look in the mirror and get the reflection back of who I have become and recall what I wanted to become, I must say I am rather satisfied with the picture.
No, I am not going anywhere. I am DAMN healthy. Couldn't kill me with an axe, as my father used to say of my mother's superb health.
But birthdays do offer one pause to reflect.
So here is a list of what I have not yet accomplished, but wanted to:

no NYT list
no fortune
not really even 3 minutes of fame coming my way.

BUT, here's what I do have (and something tells me there is not enough space here to list all those things I really should):

lots of awards for my writing

many placements in Book Clubs

enough $$$ earned writing to send our kids through private high school and college

a legacy to them of loving books, the written word and great movies

a respect by them for art in all forms

a desire by them to be artists...while coping with the necessity to be corporate good boys and girls

my acquisition of so many friends who love books and the written word, whether they themselves are writers or not

my wonderful marriage of many decades to a man whose support I valued for my decision to NOT be an eternal corporate person
my love of what I do every day and an endless supply of ideas to

the ability to earn money at it

the joy of creating

the joy of being what I know I was meant to be when I came here...so many years ago!

And the cover at the top? My new release FOR HER HONOUR at http://www.total-e-bound.com/ , the second in the SWORDS OF PASSION series about 3 Crusaders who fight for their lives and their loves in the reign of King John of England. Scrumptious cover, yes?

Coming Tuesday August 17th

2010-08-14T10:07:00.001-05:00

I love this cover! I love this story. LOL
One day I was listening to a song and these lyrics caught my attention: "I get off on you getting off on me." Addison and Dante instantly appeared in my mind. I knew I had to write their story.
Here is a taste of this story available Tuesday August 17 from Ellora's Cave

Blurb:

Masturbating can be so much fun—especially when you have a one-man audience. Addison loves sex. More importantly, she loves her body and isn’t afraid to make it sing. Add a little voyeurism and it’s totally erotic.

Dante’s muse has stalled—until his sexy neighbor starts seducing him. Through her bedroom window, he watches as her hands caress her tantalizing skin. It’s like something out of a strip club, with his very own personal view. Thanks to this beauty, he’s drawing like wildfire. To thank Addison, Dante sends her an invitation for a single night together. That night may encourages them to draw a new future…together.

Excerpt:

By reading any further, you are stating that you are at least 18 years of age. If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary to exit this site.
An Excerpt From: DANTE’S DESIRE
Copyright © AMBER SKYZE, 2010
All Rights Reserved, Ellora's Cave Publishing, Inc.
Chapter One

Addison removed the clip from her dark mane and tossed it on the dresser. Her unruly hair tumbled around her shoulders. Fingertips massaged her scalp, releasing the day’s tension. Her feet screamed to be set free from the six-inch heels, but she couldn’t—not just yet. She needed to keep them on for a little while longer. For him.
In three long strides she stood in front of the window of her bedroom. A small light was on in his apartment. The moon, a sliver shy of full, illuminated the sky. Another day or two and it would be complete.
Pulling the tails of her crisp white blouse out of her skirt she unbuttoned the sleeves. Her hands moved to the top button and removed it from its hole. Slowly she continued down the shirt until her pink lace bra was fully exposed.
With ease she removed the shirt and threw it on the chair. She tapped her polished fingernail against her lip. What would she do tonight? She smiled a wicked grin. She was feeling bold.
She pictured him sitting there, his fingers wrapped around his hard cock—watching. She imagined his hand moving up and down the length of his shaft. With each article of clothing she removed she imagined him sucking in a deep breath and groaning in sexual frustration. He’d masturbate until she was finished and they’d both be satisfied.
There was no doubt he was watching. She felt his eyes on her body, begging to touch it. Most women would close the curtains and be freaked out by the idea of a man watching them every time they undressed, but not Addison. She loved the idea of being watched. She enjoyed the freedom to put on a show for him. He could look, but he couldn’t touch. That alone made the whole fantasy fun.
Addison unhooked the front clasp of her bra and flung it with the shirt. Her hands cupped her large breasts. An early bloomer, she was teased endlessly in high school. She’d hated her huge boobs as a teenager, but now she was happy with her bust.
The palms of her hands ran over her nipples, stirring them to life. She took them between her fingers and tugged until they were fully aroused. Pinching the hardened nubs she bit her lower lip from the sensations racing to the core of her pussy.
She needed an orgasm.
Soon.
Releasing her nipples, her hands floated down her stomach and around to the back of her black skirt. Unzipping the tight fabric she eased it over her hips and let it fall to the floor, where it pooled at her feet. Stepping away from the skirt she made sure she was still visible to her admirer.
She turned around, hooked her thong panties around her fingers and bent over. She dragged the panties down her legs, giving him a view of her puckered ass. Holding on to her ankles, she rotated her hips ever so slowly. She loved putting on a performance like a stripper, only hers was a one-man show.
What was he thinking? Was he wondering what it would be like to drive his stiff cock into her waiting ass? Or did he want to fill her hole with a butt plug so he could ram into her wet pussy?
She reached up to her pussy to find she was soaked. She slipped her finger inside. Pulling out she dragged her juices out coating her lips.
Ready.
Time to rock his world.

How important are reviews?

2010-07-26T00:01:00.001-05:00

I recently got a 5-heart review over at The Romance Studios for Nothing but Sex, plus a whole passel of great reviews from other sites, as well. I also got a 5-heart review on Jillian's Job at TRS. Oh, yeah...and a 5-heart review there on Her Own Set of Rules.

Some authors state that anything lower than a 4 or better rating is not worth showing or paying attention to. But doesn't anyone pay attention to the explanations of each rating on the review site? A good solid 3 or better means your book is GOOD. That it was worth reading, and the reviewer liked it. A 4 or better means your book is VERY GOOD. That the reviewer loves it. Would read it again for certain. Had trouble putting it down.

A 5 means you just walked on water, as far as the reviewer is concerned. Your book is a "must buy". Could not put it down even to go potty. Would fight a friend rather than lend it out.

But here is the catch...and pay big attention here...no two reviewers will feel the same about your book. For instance, my debut book, Out of Her Dreams, was reviewed by one of Joyfully Reviewed's review staff. The reviewer liked it very much, but had a couple of "buts" to toss in, meaning that it had a minor flaw or two as far as the reviewer was concerned. But all in all, the reviewer loved the book.

Joyfully Reviewed does not "rate" a book. You can only tell by the last line or two of the review whether you just walked on water, or sank in the creek. So I figured maybe a 4.5 at any other review site would have matched that one. A few months later, a second reviewer from Joyfully Reviewed did another review on OOHD. And the sweet lady raved about the book. Adored it. Said such complimentary things, I actually blushed. Now that one was a solid 5.

Now, I do believe that getting a great review is fabulous, but if you don't happen to get one, that does not mean your book sucks and should be instantly burned. I have read books that the reviewers hated, and absolutely loved them. I try not to pay much attention to reviews before I read a book, because I want to go in with an open mind. So when I got some not so dazzling reviews on a couple of my short novels after that, I tried very hard not to feel bad. None of the reviews was under a 3.5, so I felt like I had written a good, solid book. However, when I got 4's on those same books, I felt vindicated. Not every one likes every book you write.

It seems funny in retrospect, because the one book that I got a 3.5 first review on was my best seller ever. The book sold over 800 copies the day it was released. Not one of my 5 rated books ever did so well on the first day. So if you place a great deal of stock in reviews, and feel bad about a review, my advice to you is "don't burn the book". Just get out there and promote it, regardless. There are folks out there who will love it!

Fran Lee
http://www.franleeromance.com

Celebration Time!

2010-07-19T09:38:00.004-05:00

This month I have two wonderful reasons to celebrate! First, Kerrie's Quest for Passion--a medieval fantasy--is available in print. And Courting Kel--a futuristic fantasy releases July 28, 2010 in e-book. Both are available from Ellora's Cave.

Blurb: Kerrie's Quest for Passion

In Marchon’s stables the grooms claim Kerrie rode all her lovers to their early deaths. In the guardroom the knights avow she required her lovers to spear her so often their seed spilled like blood. And in the kitchens the cooks gossip Kerrie kept her lovers on the boil so long they expired from the heat.

You may have met her daughters in Passion’s Four Towers. Now meet the notorious queen herself in Kerrie’s Quest for Passion.

Blurb: Courting Kel

Abducted from her home world, Amazonian warrior Kel finds herself imprisoned on Ondrican, a sexual slave to its heir, Prince Aren. Being older than most Amazonians are when they take their first lovers, Kel is more than willing to discover pleasure in Aren’s embrace. But when he announces his taking her virginity has made them husband and wife, Kel vows to escape him and return home.

Aren has known for years that he must marry and produce a legitimate heir. He finds Kel’s untutored lovemaking a sensual delight, but her refusal to acknowledge their marriage stuns him and hurts his pride. Determined to win her warrior heart, he takes his reluctant bride to the country and weaves a spell of sensual pleasure around them both.

New covers, New Regency romanticas

2010-07-17T00:01:00.010-05:00

Celebrating and doing the Snoopy Dance over these covers to launch my quintet of Regencies over at Resplendence Publishing! http://www.resplendencepublishing.com/

Yes, FIVE of them!

THE STANHOPE CHALLENGE stars a family of siblings who understand the family curse will attack each of them.

The Curse?

Since Charles II took a Stanhope wife from her beloved husband and made her his mistress, no Stanhope has ever had a happy marriage.

Pity the three Stanhope brothers, their half sister...and to their shock, their bastard half-brother! Each of them can love, but none, they fear, can have a happy marriage!

You do want to come and see if they can change all that bad luck.

June 29, Lord Stanhope's Improper Proposal debuted.

Stay tuned for the date of the FREE READ about their sister, Lady Ramsey's Ribald Choices.

August 11, Lady Featherstone's Fervent Affair comes out.

November 17 sees the debut of Miss Darling's Indecent Offer and in February, The Bastard's Precious Prize.

Happy reading!

Coming Soon - Submit With Me

2010-07-14T03:07:00.001-05:00

I have a quickie coming on July 21st - Submit With Me

Here's a little taste. :0)

Blurb:

Rena is on a quest to get laid and she’s willing to go to any length to fulfill her need.

Marc has a thirst for a submissive. He longs to find someone he can bring to the edge of ecstasy and rein back in before an orgasm. He wants to tie, tease and torture his submissive, pushing the limits of sexual awareness.

When he offers Rena five hundred dollars to be his sub for the night, he gets more than he bargained for. This spitfire is about to show him a thing or two about submitting.

Excerpt:

By reading any further, you are stating that you are at least 18 years of age. If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary to exit this site.
An Excerpt From: SUBMIT WITH ME
Copyright © AMBER SKYZE, 2010
All Rights Reserved, Ellora's Cave Publishing, Inc.
Chapter One

Rena had one goal in mind—to get laid. Taking a long drag off the straw nestled in her fruity drink, she scanned the smoke-filled bar for a potential mark. Tonight she didn’t care about getting to know someone. No, tonight she only cared about filling the void in her aching pussy.
“Damn,” she cursed under her breath. Tables were full with happy couples, either enjoying drinks or dinner. Soft jazz played in the background. Normally, Rena enjoyed the lazy tempo, but not tonight. She was too busy looking for someone to fill her need. Her desire. Rena’s pussy ached to be fucked. Glancing around the haze she shook her head. Not one guy in the place looked eligible. She considered going to another bar, but decided against it. Not many bars offered rooms above them for the clients to rent by the hour. No, this was the place where she intended to find the man to make her pussy sing. Besides, the patrons were upper class and the bar had a reputation for only allowing in respectable people. Safe. That was the reason she was here and wouldn’t go any place else.
Staring into the mirror behind the bar she gave the room another scan. Still nothing. She couldn’t believe there wasn’t one man desirable enough to give her the relief she craved.
She emptied the contents of her drink. Maybe it was best if she called it a night. Obviously she wasn’t getting laid tonight.
As she stepped off the barstool Rena’s face came into contact with one broad chest. She glanced up to stare into the most exquisite blue eyes she’d ever seen.
“Leaving so soon?” his husky voice asked.
“Just going to powder my nose,” she lied.
“I didn’t think women did that any longer.”
“I’m not just any woman.” Rena winked. “I’m every man’s wish come true.” Leaving him standing there, mouth agape, she headed towards the bathroom.
He ordered her a new drink when she shimmied onto the stool.
“Thanks for the drink.” She didn’t bother to look at him, but she caught him watching her in the mirror.
“My pleasure.”
Rena couldn’t help herself, she smiled.
He was gorgeous, dressed in tight fitting denims and a painted-on black tee , muscles bulging from under the short sleeves.
“Come here often?” Lame. She hated pick-up lines, so why was she using one on him?
He laughed a hearty laugh.
“Actually the first time.”
Hmm. A first timer.
“So what brings you here tonight?”
“I’m looking for a little action.”
“What kind of action?” Maybe the same kind she was looking for? A “wham bam thank you ma’am” kinda night?
“Nothing you’d be interested in, I’m sure.”
“And what makes you so sure I’m not interested in your kind of action?” Insult dripped from her voice.
“Just a gut feeling.”
“Are you saying I’m too prim and proper for you?”
He shrugged indifferently.
“Try me, I’ll bet I surprise you.”
He shook his head no.
Are you fucking serious? He was turning her down? No fucking way. This was not the way she had planned this night. She was determined to get laid and Mister Muscles fit the bill.
“Let me guess, you’re looking to get laid—no strings attached?”
He didn’t flinch when she blurted out the statement.
Instead he stood, reached deep into his pocket and pulled out a wad of cash.
“You think you can handle my action?”
He slapped a hundred dollar bill on the bar.
“I’m offering you one hundred dollars to be my slut for the night.”
She almost choked on her drink.
“See I knew you wouldn’t be able to handle it.” He sat back down.
She laughed.
“What’s so funny?”
“That you think one hundred dollars is enough. Make it five and I’ll be Mary Fucking Poppins if you want.”

Back List Books...

2010-06-26T16:41:00.003-05:00

Back List Books...

When we write e-books, our books normally only get the spotlight for about 45 days...while they are on the "new releases" pages of our publisher's website. After that, they are relegated to what we fondly refer to as our "back list"...that dark and creepy place where they languish, unheeded, until some hardy soul goes spelunking into the publisher's website with perhaps an "author search", or decides to click on one of our back list books while buying our newest release.

Unlike paper and ink books, that can sit enticingly on a bookstore shelf with covers agleam and waiting for some reader to pick them up and take them to the checkout, e-books don't get placed on a store's book shelf where folks can browse and read the back cover. So it is entirely up to the author to make sure back list books are still visible and available after the polish wears of the new release page.

Take my first book from Resplendence Publishing, Dictated by Fate. Dictated is a full length novel (230 pages), and it has had several five-star/hearts reviews. You can find all the reviews on my website http://www.franleeromance.com by going to the links below the main image and clicking on the name of the book, then clicking on the "reviews" link on that page.

I am thinking that readers don't like paying for full length novels, even though they complain that other books are "painfully short...I wanted MORE!" LOL! Can't seem to please everyone. Longer e-books cost more. You can usually tell how long the novel is by glancing at the price. At Resplendence, short books cost between $3.00 and $4.50. Longer Books start at $5.00 and go to $7.50. Dictated is priced at $7.50. Those who have read it didn't mind the price at all. But price often deters fans who want a great read for a low price. Too bad they complain about how short the books are when they get one for the lower price. :)

So I am now promoting my back list books. I believe they deserve another round of limelight.

You can find my back lists at these URLs:

http://www.resplendencepublishing.com/145.html

http://www.jasminejade.com/m-554-fran-lee.aspx

I would love to introduce you to my back lists...before my next new release hits! :)

Fran Lee
http://www.franleeromance.com

Some Day My Prince Will Come

2010-06-23T17:04:00.002-05:00

There is a perfect mate out there for everyone. At least that's the basic premise of romance--except for ménages. In those cases, there's more than one perfect person, but they're all perfect for each other.

In the current market, the perfect mate might be a werewolf, a vampire, an animal shifter, or even a gargoyle. And the other half of the equation could be almost anything--even a human. A friend recently wrote a story where one of the characters is part of a tree, not a new concept, but different than the normal run of characters.

So what is the attraction? Why are we so fascinated by the notion of non-humans and multiple partners? Could it be that we live with the less than ideal, deal with the mundane and long to fulfill that long ago little girl dream that our prince indeed will come to rescue us?

While we're waiting, that romance about two handsome men who focus all their talents on pleasing one woman gives us something to daydream about. Or that fabulous dragon shifter will scoop us up and take us away to magical lands.

anny

Waiting

2010-06-20T09:06:00.002-05:00

When you’re letting that WIP age a little—just enough to give you fresh eyes and ideas when you get back to it—what do you do? Work on another manuscript? One so old it’s covered with dust bunnies? But it has all these really neat characters and all it needs are a few tweaks. Then you, or an astute critique partner, realize the first chapter is deadly dull. So you start over, incorporating scenes, partial scenes, a single line from previous versions and you end up—revising the whole thing based on a few fatal flaws.

Or do you bring up a brand new page on your computer, intending to work on those characters who wake you up in the middle of the night and demand you tell their stories? This new gang has the audacity to distract you from the WIP you’ve ripped apart to the point it’s unrecognizable.

Do you read in hope of distracting yourself? Or only for the pure pleasure of losing yourself in the magic of another author’s worlds? For example, in Paris Brandon’s hot shape-shifter jaguars of Assassin’s Kiss or Cindy Spencer Pape’s whimsical and sexy Djinni and the Geek? Or Shanna Abe’s The Time Weaver with its glorious drakons and lyrical narrative?

And how do you avoid feeling envy and wish you could write so beautifully? Truth is…you don’t.

You go back to the WIP, determined to make it better. You hold the memory of those perfect turns of phrase and words and find your own words—in your own unique voice—to apply to that new story begging to be told.

And you keep on writing.

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!

Dee

Escape with Cerise DeLand!

2010-06-17T00:01:00.004-05:00

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Need a vacation this summer? Escape with me to exotic, erotic destinations.
Like Venice, Paris, Jerusalem and Naples in CARRIED AWAY over at EC now! (www.jasminejade.com/m-560-cerise-deland.aspx
Or Mexico? Try LAID BARE. (Also EC.)
Tuscany float your boat? MIA DOLCE, from EC, too.
Paris, again? PARIS EXPOSE from Scarlet Rose, at www.thewilderroses.com
Like the Mile High Club? Try POWER POSITION over at Scarlet Rose. Here you fly to Dubai with a man you won't forget.
Next up? From me and EC?
Ah.
Provence. Eze. Paris. Totally French. Totally luscious. SWEPT AWAY. soon, ma cherie.
But June 29, the beginning of my Regency series at Resplendence, starting with Lord Stanhope's Improper Proposal.
See you soon. In many places....
Ciao, bella!

You Struck a Chord with Me

2010-06-14T03:32:00.004-05:00

This originally appeared on Raine Delights blog on June 6th.

Since a child I’ve connected to music on many different levels. I love all different types, but lean more towards Rock/Heavy Metal. I listen to music more than I watch television. My CD collection is large. :o)

Music plays a huge part in my writing too. I hear a song and picture a story. Not the full story, but a general theme. Sometimes it’s only the title that strikes an idea for a story, but normally it’s the lyrics.

Take for instance Dante’s Desire, coming from Ellora’s Cave on August 17th. I wrote this story after hearing the song I Get Off, by Halestorm. It’s about someone getting off watching another get off. I knew I had to write Dante’s Desire. The book starts with Addison, the heroine, performing sexual acts in her window for her sexy neighbor across the street.

Another book – Spend The Night With Me, coming from EC, release date TBD, is loosely attached to a song. The song Need You Now, by Lady Antebellum starts off talking about scattered pictures. The image struck a chord with me (no pun intended). This book starts with my heroine Brooke looking at pictures of her now deceased fiancé. After hearing this song, I changed part of the scene to her sitting on the floor with pictures scattered around her. She’s packing them away to move forward with her life.

Sometimes my heroes are musicians like Reed Walker in Body Shots. He’s a singer and guitar player. His band plays at the heroines bar. Reed signs a song he’d written for the heroine many years prior, weakening her defenses. (Available now)

Those are just a few examples of how I weave my love for music into my writing life. Is there anything that plays a big role in your life?

Here's a little taste of Body Shots:

Blurb:

Got Tequila?Sierra does and Reed isn’t afraid to use it. He’s determined to do shots on every inch of her skin, but Sierra has insecurities preventing him from exploring intimate areas. Her insecurities won't stop her from lavishing his body with the heady liquor.Ten years ago an accident tore Sierra Allen and Reed Walker apart. Now a chance encounter has them burning for each other. A bottle of liquor and a pool table has this duo ready to quench their thirsts with one night of Body Shots.Will one night be enough to fan the flames of desire?

Excerpt:

Reed Walker leaned his massive frame against the wall. His leg bent, his boot-clad foot tapped against the wall to the rhythm of the bass drum. He stuffed his hands in his pockets, as his eyes gazed upon the singer crooning the soft rock ballad. She was gorgeous by every standard of the word. Long flowing black hair, dark mysterious eyes, her arms sleeved in tattoos. Dressed only in black leather pants and a matching leather bra, her rock-hard stomach revealed she worshiped the gym but Reed wasn’t here for the singer. She wasn’t his type any longer. Another time, another place maybe. Not tonight. Tonight, he was here for the owner of the bar.
Looking to make some extra cash doing something they loved, Reed and his fellow band mates decided to reunite after a ten year hiatus. Reed having always been the businessman of the group took on the task of going around to different bars and clubs to see if they were interested in adding his band Foul Play to the line up.
When he walked into Crimson Nights he thought he was walking into a dream. Never in his wildest imagination had he thought he’d come face to face with the only true love of his life—Sierra Allen.
The look on her face when he walked up to the bar and asked to speak to the owner was one of shock. Like seeing a ghost. And that’s how he felt. Oh, she’d cut off most of her long red hair but she couldn’t deny the scar on her right cheek. It had faded some over the years and she tried covering it with her hand most of the time they spoke but he knew it was her. She told him her name was Laura but Reed knew better. Those haunting green eyes couldn’t be mistaken.
He went along with her charade, though it killed him deep inside. She had run away from him after the car accident without so much as an explanation. The weeks he spent by her side, holding her while she cried over what she felt was a deformed face. The painful recovery from the shards of glass that cut her, when the windshield shattered. He stood by her side, loving her, wishing he could take away her pain. Wishing it was him who suffered instead of her, only to have her up and vanish when she was released from the hospital.
Now she was pretending she didn’t know him. It didn’t make sense. He’d let her go a long time ago but this time he wasn’t going to leave without finding out why. It was the least she could do. She owed him an explanation.
She shocked him when she agreed to let his band play. He fully expected a flat-out “no”. Why would she want his band playing there if she was hiding her identity? Was it a ploy to make him believe she was this Laura she pretended to be? Or was she feeling the connection too? If it was to prove her charade, she was sadly mistaken. Reed wasn’t stupid enough to be fooled by a haircut or name change.
Reed would wait until the night was done and the bar empty before he confronted her but he would and when he did, Sierra had some explaining to do.

Chosen Destiny Releases!

2010-06-04T07:00:00.002-05:00

My blog day couldn't have been better this month. I have a release day, today! So I thought I'd share a little steamy excerpt with one of the heroes, Jaeson, and the heroine, Meagan. Enjoy!

Chosen Destiny
Available June 4 from Ellora's Cave
http://www.jasminejade.com/ps-8400-50-chosen-destiny.aspx

Blurb:

Meagan’s village is under attack and she’s been accused of being a spy. She has no choice but to try to take up the weapons of her ancestors, because she refuses to let her home fall to the Dark Sorcerer. Dealing with the two gorgeous men who come to aid her in the fight is another matter.

Samiel and Jaeson came to fight the Dark Sorcerer, but finding the woman whose magic matched theirs surprises them as does her reaction. She’s so focused on the battle that she barely seems to notice them. With kisses and sensual caresses, they turn her attention to the desire building between them.

Meagan’s tempted by their seductive touch, but defining her place in their life is difficult and time’s running out. The Dark Sorcerer has to be stopped before Meagan can discover if what the men offer is forever or a moment in time.

Chosen Destiny, a little unedited sexy preview

"Now that we've both relaxed a bit, we can talk. As for your comment about finding out that my scent's not a drug, I'll make sure you have ample opportunity. Were there any questions you have now that you didn't earlier today?" He sat on the bed.

Meagan watched him. He looked a lot more comfortable than she felt in the hard straight-backed wooden chair. The green blanket set off Jaeson's dark clothes. She just didn't believe he was as relaxed as he seemed to be. He hadn't suddenly come to the decision to give her all the time she needed. The man wanted her. She could see it in the way he watched her.

His entire attitude was that of a man on the hunt. She'd have to watch him and make sure she didn't let things get out of control. She was more than tempted to relax and let the attraction take the lead, but knew that he wouldn't consider it just sex. She wasn't willing to think about anything more. Two mates. Just thinking about it made her nervous. The thought was great as a fantasy, but the reality came with a lot of questions. And she knew only time and being close to them would give her the answers.

"Your questions or are you just going to stare at me for the night." He grinned and she could see the humor in his eyes.

Meagan felt the heat rush into her cheeks. She hadn't realized how much time had passed. Rising from her chair, she began to pace a bit. "I know that you two were telling me the truth earlier about a Tiria having two mates. I'm still not sure it's necessary and I can't see much to recommend it aside from having someone always near to help with the power levels."

"Was there a question in there that I missed?" Jaeson's tone was openly provoking.

She glared at him. He didn't seem at all worried about staying on her good side. She'd have loved to put him in his place but couldn't think of a way just yet. Walking around the bed, she tried to put her thoughts in order. The chaos in her mind was making her restless. She stopped when he was directly opposite her. He moved to the end of the bed so he could turn to see her without bringing his boots onto it

"You and Samiel how will it work? Won't someone get jealous? I'm not agreeing to anything. It's just something I wondered about." She titled her head and bit her lip. That was only one question of many.

"Samiel and I will each want time alone with you at times, that's natural just as we'll make time to be with each other. We might feel envy, want to be part of it because we know just how good it feels, but no real jealousy, because we all belong to each other." Jaeson smiled, his voice turning a little husky.

She gaped at him. They'd want to be with each other. She hadn't even thought about them having anything other than a friendly relationship with each other. She felt utterly stupid for a moment, but that feeling was pushed aside as her mind began supplying her with details. An image of the two men in each other's arms kissing flashed through her head. It was disconcerting and arousing at the same time. She hadn't even though that they might be lovers. She might just be the one who would be jealous. She'd never even thought about sharing a lover.

"You didn't realize that Samiel and I were lovers did you?" He smiled obviously enjoying her surprise.

"No, I didn't know. There wasn't anything about the relationship in the books. As far as I know, you two could have just met." She shrugged.

"We've been together for years." He brought his knee up and rested the ankle on his thigh. He was utterly relaxed and at ease.

"If we have sex, are you going to immediately assume that we're mated?" She sat on the bed across from him, one leg tucked under her.

"We are mates. Having sex or not having sex isn't going to make it any more or less true." He angled his body a bit more so that he was fully facing her.

She shook her head. That really wasn't what she'd meant. She had been thinking more about his attitude than his philosophy. Apparently, she was going to have to ask in another way if she wanted an answer.

"Are you going to be all possessive and expect to act like my mate if we have sex?" She sighed. "I'm not just going to jump into something permanent. To me, having sex will just be sex. Is it going to be more to you?"

"I'll undoubtedly be possessive. So much that you'll object to it? I don't know. You are my mate. I'm not going to pretend that you're a woman for only a night." His intent golden stare didn't waver from hers.

She didn't have any doubts that he was absolutely serious. She couldn't change his attitude, not even dent it. Running her fingers through her hair, she exhaled slowly. She suspected that even if they didn't have sex, he'd be possessive. So she'd have to deal with his attitude regardless.

"Have we dealt with all of your questions?" He raised an eyebrow and looked significantly at the bed.

"You may consider me your mate but I don't consider myself bound in anyway." She clenched a bit of the blanket in her hand. "I don't have any other questions at the moment, but there will probably be more later."

"Good. Then come over here. I wanted to kiss you when I walked into the library." He held out his hand.

She smiled. The man had a one track mind. She had to admit that she'd been thinking about having sex with him too. Her questions had managed to distract her a little. She still had doubts about having sex with him, but it wasn't going to stop her. She was going to take the chance. It would probably complicate things, but she knew the desire building between them wasn't going to disappear. It was too strong. She was enough of a realist to know that it was going to happen. Samiel and Jaeson wouldn't just ignore the attraction between them. She wanted to make the choice, not have it made for her. Also, she had to find out if the pull between them was entirely physical or some sort of binding spell wrought by the blades to keep them together.

She stood and walked around the bed and took his hand. He tugged her into his lap. The move caught her by surprise and she lost her balance. She braced her hands on his shoulders as she fell. He caught her and settled her across his thighs. She looked up and found his beautiful eyes locked with hers.

"As much as I would love to take this opportunity and make love with you, I don't want you to regret it." He drew his hand down her back. "Are you sure this is what you want?"

"I've made my choice. I want you. I suspect you knew before I was ready to admit it. I'm ready to have sex with you. I'm not ready to even talk about anything permanent. This is my home. I'm needed here." She lifted her chin. No matter what they thought, she would have a say in this.

He frowned. "You can't think that you can just walk away from us after this battle is finished. You belong with us."

"I'm not going to talk about that right now. We'll deal with it later. Now do you want me or should I go back to my research?" She pushed against his chest putting just a little distance between them.

"You're not going back to your research." His hands tightened on her hips. "Not tonight."

Her hands stroked over his chest to his shoulders relaxing against him. His scent swirled around her. It seemed to intensify with every breath she took. Her need rose to an even higher level. He leaned down and his lips brushed over her cheek. She turned her head and met his lips. Her mouth opened beneath his. She licked at his lips when he did nothing more than brush his mouth from side to side. He laughed softly. His tongue stoked into her mouth. She relaxed against him and let the hot sensation sweep through her, but she wasn't passive. Her tongue tangled with his. She wanted to draw him as deep into the kiss as she was. His groan and the tightening of his arms only spurred her to do more.

She hooked an arm around his neck running her fingers through his hair. The feel of it amazed her. It was so soft and she loved running her fingers through it. She couldn't help wondering what it would feel like running over her body as they made love. His hand slid down her back and under her shirt. She drew in a gasping breath. His hand was so warm and she wanted to feel more. She pushed back into his touch.

"I want to see you naked. Let's get you out of these clothes." He drew back and looked down at her shirt.

"Only if we get rid of your clothes too. I'm sure you'd be much more comfortable without them." Her eyes trailed down his chest and stopped at the close fitting pants. She traced her hand down his chest and to the hard ridge of flesh below his waist. She wanted to touch and explore just as much as he said he did.

He froze as her fingers slid up and down over his cock. His breath sounded raspy as he drew in a quick breath. She loved the quick intense reaction to her touch. Only the fabric of his pants separated her fingers from his cock. She wanted that barrier gone.

Her fingers moved up seeking buttons or laces. She found laces that fastened his pants, but the ends seemed to be knotted. She frowned as she looked down at the jumbled mess. It looked like it would be impossible to untie. How did he get out of them? His hands covered hers, pulling her fingers away from his pants.

For more excerpts, go to my website
www.rebeccaairies.net

I am outta here for the week!

2010-05-26T00:01:00.001-05:00

I am at my timeshare in Snowbird Utah today!

I absolutely love the mountains this time of year, and I have been lucky enough to have semi-inherited a fabulous two-level luxury condo suite at one of the most stunning winter and summer resorts in the USA...Snowbird.

This is one of the oldest time share setups in the USA (or so I am told). Iron Blosam Lodge was built in 1976-78 and the various units were sold before the building was halfway finished. Later, the Snowbird Corp built several other lodges and centers at Snowbird, and attempted to buy out the owners of the Iron Blosam, but the nice man who built the lodge put it in his will that when he died, the land and the buildings were to be ceded in perpetuity to the owners of the condos...unless the owners sold their timeshares to the Corporation.

My sister and BIL bought in when the first offer came out, and I bless them every year for being so wise! When my sister asked me if I wanted to buy it from them, I jumped. They let me purchase it from them for the amount they paid for it back in the mid seventies.

This is my week to rest, relax, and enjoy. I am within 20 miles of my home, so if I run out of stuff or need to do laundry, I can take an hour and make the trip back down and back up. Sooo handy! I did bring up my laptop, but only to keep me writing instead of totally vegging.

It's a wonderful restful getaway.

Do you have a special getaway place you love most? A place where you can recharge your batteries and kick back? Tell me about it.

Fran Lee
http://www.franleeromance.com

Serenity, Courage, Wisdom

2010-05-22T09:57:00.003-05:00

This column is a reprint from November 2007. Many of my friends are suffering discouragement, loss, and even tragedy. I was looking through some of my old posts for a specific quote (never found it!) but found this post instead. It spoke to me. Perhaps it will speak to those who need it. Blessings on your day.

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things i cannot change; the courage to change the things i can;and the wisdom to know the difference. The Serenity Prayer is the common name for an originally untitled prayer written by the theologian Reinhold Niebuhr in the 1930s or early 1940s. For more information about the Serenity Prayer... http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serenity_Prayer

A friend and I were talking about why I'm called the Zen Queen. She asked, "How can you be so calm?" I had to think about it for a while. I think it's because I took the Serenity Prayer as my general "motto" for life. Everyone has some tenet that they live by. It may be the Golden Rule or a quotation or a religious saying.

Many years ago when one of my children was involved in all sorts of dangerous behaviors, I attended Families Anonymous. In many respects it saved my life. At the beginning of each meeting we recited the Serenity Prayer. And I found it good.

There is a lot of old wisdom contained in this relatively short sentence. The sentence as printed at the beginning of this blog is the way it was originally written. Did you notice that the i's are lower case? That's one of the first things you learn in any of the anonymous programs... that it's not all about you. So. Small i's.

Serenity is a product of acceptance. There are certain things in life that we cannot change. I will never be five foot ten. I'll never be younger than I am right now. I know that you're thinking well that's just silly. Everyone knows you can't change things like that. What about bad judgment, hurtful words, or stupid choices? They're in the past. Things in the past are simply that--past. They cannot be changed. You can ask for forgiveness. You can make amends. But you can't change the past. "Grant me the serenity to accept the things i cannot change."

Courage is a little understood word today. We equate it with the military mostly or heroic deeds. But courage is really taking a leap of faith. It requires an immense leap of faith to make some changes. Changing a job. Changing a life style. Changing an address. Eating healthier. Going for a walk. Getting up an hour earlier. All of those require us to take a leap of faith that there is something better out there. Change is uncomfortable. Just ask anyone who's moved recently. We like our comfy little niches in life. Change requires us to move out of our comfort zones and try something new. "Courage to change the things i can."

Wisdom is mistaken for intelligence or education. Some of the wisest people I know are small children. They cut through the trappings of adulthood and go right for the heart of the matter. Unfortunately, as adults we don't gain wisdom without experience. Frequently the experiences are painful or bitter. It takes a while to understand the difference between "book learning" and "horse sense". With that hard won wisdom, we can determine whether the circumstances require change or acceptance. Sometimes it's best to simply accept the place we are in life. Other times we need to seize the courage to change. The wisdom we've accumulated helps us decide which choice to make. "The wisdom to know the difference."

I use these three short phrases to get through life. My child calls with an emergency. Not my emergency--but her emergency. The immediate visceral response is to leap in to save her. But wait. That would deprive her of hard won experience so that she can gain her own wisdom. So what exactly is required of me? Perhaps... all she really needs now is encouragement to follow the path of serenity, courage and wisdom.

Anny