Gabrielle Bisset

The Antagonist

2012-02-26T10:41:00.000-05:00

Recently, I read an article on writing protagonists and antagonists. I guess I believed all writers naturally would know this or they wouldn't be able to construct a well-written story, but it appears that the idea of the antagonist is confusing to some. This writer of this article claimed that George McFly was the antagonist to Marty McFly in the film Back To The Future.

Antagonist comes from the Greek and means "opponent" or "competitor". The antagonist is whoever or whatever works against the protagonist, the main character. In Back To The Future, George McFly is a secondary character, made so by the antagonist, which is the past or Biff, depending on whether or not you require a physical being to be in the role of antagonist. In reality, it's the past that works against Marty more so than anything else. Biff is the personification of that past.

George McFly, in the person of Marty's father, is ruled by other characters' actions. Biff makes him a nothing in their 1950s world. And it's only because Marty goes back to the past and changes it that George McFly doesn't end up as a greasy-haired, peanut brittle eating for dinner, low man on the corporate totem pole. George is inconsequential and buffeted by the changes others put upon him, for good and for bad, so he couldn't be the antagonist. The mistake in thinking George is the antagonist comes from not seeing the action from the characters' perspectives and instead seeing it from the audience's perspective, which is omnipotent. While it sounds nice to say that Marty does everything he can to change the past for his father, that's not true. Marty acts as he does because it's who he naturally is. That he changes the past and the future is a surprise to him, not a planned action.

This misunderstanding of who acts as the antagonist in Back To The Future is a good example of why I am often dubious of writers who claim they're very much about the "craft." The "craft" is bandied about online by published and unpublished writers all the time. They read books about it, write blog posts about how much they've learned from books, and then proceed to write a confusing or boring story because they took the wrong advice.

I learned about literary devices in undergraduate school as an English major, but I often find writers who haven't had any training at all and are relying on how-to books. While someone may find a nugget or two of information they can use, the real knowledge necessary to construct a well-written story is likely somewhere else. I guess it's natural for would-be authors to reach for a book to learn something. Sometimes, however, the book isn't enough. And sometimes it's written by someone who doesn't understand the idea any more than the apprentice writer does.

There are some who argue that readers don't pay attention to the deep things like who's the antagonist, so it's not really important to the writer. While readers may not analyze every story they read, they understand the conflict between the protagonist and antagonist and when it isn't done well, they know there's something missing in the story. It's incumbent upon the writer to create an antagonist who is meaningful and can stir emotions in readers. Without a solid antagonist, a story has little real conflict, and without that, the story's nothing.

Erotic Romance vs Erotica Redux

2012-02-24T09:01:00.001-05:00

I may have been hasty in my praise for the move to separate erotic romance and erotica at All Romance eBooks considering the move by Bookstrand to eliminate all indie pubbed erotica that didn't conform to the strict PayPal rules. (For a full rundown of the issue, Selena Kitt does a nice job.) What it seems like now is that all the third party sites are kowtowing to PayPal's idea of what's appropriate.

Censorship is never a good thing, no matter what the ultimate justification given is. While I don't read or write books that contain incest, pseudo-incest (stepfathers and uncles seem to be the favorite main characters here with barely legal young women), bestiality, or rape for titillation, I accept the fact that there is a market for it. Don't believe me? Visit the erotica section on Smashwords and Amazon and check out the titles. Yeah, there's a market for it.

So where's the line to be drawn? I don't know, but for me, I always prefer to err on the side of liberty. I may seem naive here, but is anyone forcing people to read these stories? At no point on my trips to Amazon, All Romance eBooks, or Bookstrand has any entity attempted to have me purchase anything that the powers that be claim crosses the line. And what about certain epubs that seem to focus on this type of book? (Always leery of the legal issues with my first publisher, I will leave the names out.) Bookstrand seems to be making it seem like only indie pubbed authors were publishing the "inappropriate" works, but a quick look tells a different story. Epubs have been dipping into this murky pool too.

But I don't care about those books or those publishers as much as I care about the idea that this is quickly becoming a case of censorship. No, it's not a First Amendment rights issue because it's not the government behind it, but it's censorship, nonetheless. We walk a very precarious line when we do this. What's next? Any sex that someone finds offensive? I find badly written sex in romance offensive. It makes me cringe when I have to read purple prose like "honeyed portal" and I want to throw my Kindle Fire at the wall. Should books that contain it be censored? (The answer is no. They should just be written by better authors who've had good sex once or twice in their lives.)

The ironic thing is I remember the publisher of my first novel telling me readers would hate my main character because he killed his first wife in the heat of passion and was put away for it. His behavior would offend them. As she spoke to me on the phone explaining why I had to change him to be nicer (I didn't), I clicked through the publisher's website and read a number of blurbs containing the issues being ruled as offensive today and thought, "This is fine, but Varek killing someone and paying for it with his freedom isn't?" I may never enjoy those types of books, but I wouldn't suggest they be eliminated. All I asked was the same for my story.

Just as I didn't allow her to censor my book, I don't believe we should censor these books that are now upsetting people. Unless we're talking about stories straight out of snuff porn, it's simply a matter of taste. Just don't read them. It's that simple. If the sex is not your flavor, then don't read it. But making it next to impossible for writers to sell erotica that makes you uncomfortable is the first step down a road that will inevitably turn on those who want to censor because at some point, your idea of what's appropriate will fall out of favor. It may not happen tomorrow or the next day, but it will.

First they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for the Communists, and I did not speak out because I was not a Communist.
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for me, and there was no one left to speak out for me.
--Martin Niemöller

Blood Avenged at Kindle Spice and Other Thoughts

2012-02-23T10:27:00.000-05:00

Blood Avenged is featured at Kindle Spice today, with Vasilije in all his glory there. He does spice up the place, doesn't he? ;) And here's another goody with the delicious vampire: the cover of his print book. I love it!! Talina has knocked that ball out of the park with this one, hasn't she?

On other fronts, there seems to have been some dust up at a paranormal blog I love in the last day or so. Unfortunately, an author disliked a review and voiced her opinion about it. I certainly understand the frustration of a review that isn't complimentary, but that kind of opinion needs to stay with friends over a decent amount of alcohol. I have days when I read a review of one of my books and think, "WTF? Did this person even read the book?" Basic errors about the plot or the main characters make me think they've skimmed, at best, and spelling and grammar errors in a review that criticizes my writing are infuriating, to say the least. But the reviewer never knows what I think. Only my friends and editor do, and after we've hashed out what we really think (usually over too much beer), it's done. I don't go back to reviewers who I believe don't do a good job. Period. There's no bitching and arguing. I just take them off the list.

The author who had a problem at this site yesterday should consider this method over the one she's chosen. Just my opinion.

I'm on a number of author loops and have seen a rise in the animosity toward reviewers in the past few months. I think the proliferation of book review blogs is actually hurting the better bloggers because there are some who just put up a blog and think they can attack at will. Authors are naturally lumping all the bloggers together, and the bad ones are affecting how authors see all bloggers. It's too bad for the ones who are thoughtful and careful with what the write, but I see it happening more and more.

Finally, I was at Dear Author's site the other day (about something with my first publisher) and saw a discussion about indie authors padding their Amazon reviews with those of friends, fellow writers, and even reviews written by themselves in fake names. I know of one author in particular who does this routinely, in addition to the one discussed at Dear Author. The reviews aren't from reviewers, bloggers, or strangers but fellow writers and the writer herself. Always 5 stars, they gush about how wonderful the book is, but I have to wonder why she feels the need to do this? If you're selling well, why act like this?

Indies who cheat the system don't help themselves or the indie movement at all. Cheating never pays off in the long run. (I sound like I'm talking to my students, but it's true.) What you know or don't know and what you're good at or aren't good at always comes to light in the end. Cheating just puts that day off a bit, but it's always going to come. And it makes people who are skeptical about indie publishing in the first place feel that their dislike of it is justified when they find out an indie has been gaming the system. Bad joujou for those authors.

I'm off to do the home school thing and then write later this afternoon. The details about the other Sons have been worked into Blood Betrayed and the end is ready. Hope everyone has a good one!

Erotic Romance vs Erotica

2012-02-21T08:52:00.000-05:00

All Romance eBooks sent out an email yesterday telling authors that they're creating a new category of erotic romance. I wholeheartedly cheer this on and hope Amazon sees this as a good step it should emulate. The difference between erotic romance and erotica is big enough that there needs to be separate categories.

For example, my novellas of the Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy are pretty steamy, especially compared to most of the historical offerings out there, but they're in no way erotica. However, for a long time I classified them in the erotica category at Amazon because I was concerned they were a little too hot for the average romance reader, especially your typical historical romance reader, who seems to be a bit more conservative than paranormal or contemporary readers. The problem with putting them in erotica is that they then must hang out with books with titles like Daddy's Little Whore and Doing My Stepbrother. (LOL I've tried to use titles that I've never seen before, but these may be in existence for all I know. It's a wild crowd over there.) Anyone who likes those titles wouldn't be satisfied with the story I insist on including, especially the history that makes its way into the stories.

I applaud All Romance eBooks' decision to differentiate between these two genres, and I encourage Amazon to do the same. This is a decision that has nothing to do with segregating one genre or the other and everything to do with providing customers with clear distinctions so they can purchase items more effectively.

Destiny Redeemed FREE at Amazon February 20 and 21!

2012-02-20T08:58:00.000-05:00

Destiny Redeemed is coming to the end of its time in Amazon's KDP Select program, so today and tomorrow it will have its last free days. Worldwide, readers can pick up a copy of one of my favorite books with one of my favorite heroes, Amon. For the blurb and excerpt, click HERE and follow the buy link to get your free copy today!

Winners!

2012-02-19T18:00:00.000-05:00

I just realized I forgot to post who the winners were for the two giveaway hops I did last week. Doh! Here are the lucky people who won:

JoAnna-signed paperback copy of The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy and swag pack

Samantha-$10 Amazon Gift Card

Chris-signed paperback copy of Blood Avenged
Mara and Amber-Blood Avenged swag packs

Thanks to everyone who came by and don't forget to check out future hops for more books, swag, gift cards, and other prizes!

Kindlegraph Made Even Easier and A Stop Over At Erotica For All

2012-02-17T08:19:00.000-05:00

Kindlegraph has made getting an autograph on your favorite Kindle books even easier. All you need to do to get a personal message from me on any of my books on your Kindle is click the widget on the top left sidebar. It will open a new page where you can request an autograph, and then the clever Kindlegraph people let me know of your request. Easy peasy!

I'm over at the terrific Erotica For All with Lucy Felthouse today talking about the dark hero and why I adore him. Stop over and say hi!

I hope everyone has a great weekend! I'm looking to possibly complete Blood Betrayed, so it could be an important weekend for me. Enjoy!

Midweek Ideas

2012-02-15T09:18:00.000-05:00

How is everyone doing out there on this fine Wednesday? It's a dreary day in the northeast, but February is half over, so spring is coming soon. :) I'm filled with all sorts of ideas this morning, so here goes.

My son is beginning to look into universities since he's in sophomore year and time's moving quickly. He's thinking of majoring in the sciences, maybe engineering. He's in pre-calc now and is enjoying it, but next year's physics will tell the tale. If he does as well in that as he's doing in math, then maybe engineering would be a good choice.

If it seems like I'm not overly excited, let me explain. I see students every day who want to be engineers or nurses or lawyers who have none of the skills necessary to be such things and none of the ability needed to learn the skills. This doesn't mean they're useless. It just means they've been lied to for the first twelve years of their education. What they needed was an honest assessment of their skills and abilities, and what they got was "You're super!" Unfortunately, by the time college rolls around, it's too late. The time to learn the basics and find out if you have the skills for a particular profession is in the twelve years before me.

I have tried to be honest with my son regarding his abilities. That he scored in the high 600s on the SAT math section in eighth grade is great, but to be an engineer from a good school, that needs to bump up into the highest echelons. And since I'm not paying for his college education until quite later, if ever, (actually, we have a deal--he graduates with higher than a 3.0 after 4 years of undergraduate work and I'll pay his student loans), he needs to plan for all contingencies and qualify for scholarships. All this is a lot to think about for a 16 year old who prefers to skateboard and play guitar to impress the girls.

Okay, now for something entirely different. I fell in love with the show Spartacus a while back. Let's be honest here. I fell in love with the actor who played Spartacus, Andy Whitfield (who was, incidentally, an engineer before he went into modeling and acting). He was taken from this world too young, and now they have a new Spartacus. I want to like him. I do. But it's just not the same. When Whitfield was Spartacus, I don't think I even noticed there were other men on that show. Well, that might exaggerating a tiny bit. ;) LOL Now, I don't even like the scenes with Spartacus. They've given him that love interest, and I don't think I've seen cooler love scenes ever. Not cool as in "Wow!" but cool as in "Do they even like each other?" or "Is there someone with a gun behind them?"

I've even taken to liking the bad guy more. A Roman! He does have great arms, though. LOL Seriously, in my mind, it's not as good with this Spartacus. No offense to him, but it's not working for me. Keep in mind that I've read that people are liking him. I just don't. :( I do have to admit that when Gannicus comes back on the scene, I may be back to liking the show, though. I'm keeping an open mind.

And just to keep the mind moving on this Wednesday, the ladies of Riverina Romantics have their XXX Hump Day Hotties post up, and if you're in need of some midweek inspiration, definitely check out their blog today. If those fine men aren't enough to get you to Friday, I don't know what will.

Have a great day!

Romance For The Ears and Soul

2012-02-13T08:59:00.001-05:00

Fellow historical romance author Natasha Blackthorne blogged about her favorite romance song today, and this made me think what my fav romance songs are. I have a few, so I thought I'd share them. They aren't necessarily sweet or sappy (I'm not either), but they speak to me when I think about what love is--powerful, sexy, thrilling, messy, sad, and something that can shake you to your core. If you've read my books, now you know why my characters are the way they are.

First up, the lady who brought down the house last night at the Grammys--Adele with Rolling In The Deep. Throat surgery? You'd never know. Her voice is so incredible. I can still remember the first time I heard this song. I thought, "Wow..." Then when she sang it last night, I was blown away.

Since I'm of a certain age, Bad Company's Feel Like Makin' Love is definitely on the list. I love how the music builds higher and higher as if the song mimics the movement of two people making love. Good stuff!

Next is U2 and Mary J. Blige with One. The original was great, but Mary takes this song into the stratosphere.

And last, but certainly not least, there's I Will Always Love You from the late Whitney Houston. I've never been a Kevin Costner fan (except for JFK), but I can watch this film over and over knowing I get to listen to this song. R.I.P Whitney.

With Love Valentines Day Blog Hop

2012-02-11T00:01:00.005-05:00

Welcome to the second giveaway hop I'm hosting for Valentine's Day. As a romance author, it's the perfect time of year to show readers how much I love them, so thanks for stopping in!

Here's what's up for grabs: One $10 Amazon gift card will go to one winner and a second winner will get a signed paperback copy of The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy and a swag pack of bookmarks and cover flats from all my books.

So what do you have to do? The only mandatory entry is that you must leave a comment with your email address below, but I'd love it if you did the other entries. The winners will be chosen by random.org after the giveaway ends at midnight on Valentine's Day and will be notified by email. The giveaway is open internationally, so everyone's welcome to enter.

Be sure to visit all the wonderful blogs that are participating at http://thebloghopspot.com/event-page/ and don't forget to stop over at the other giveaway hop I'm doing, the Vampires For Valentines Giveaway Hop where I'm giving away a signed paperback copy of Blood Avenged and two Blood Avenged swag packs! I hope you have a wonderful Valentine's Day full of love and romance (and great sex? ;) Good luck!

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Vampires For Valentines Giveaway Hop

2012-02-09T23:57:00.021-05:00

Welcome to my stop on the Vampires for Valentines Giveaway Hop! Thanks for stopping by! If there's one kind of paranormal hero I love, it's vampires. Bad ones, good ones, dark ones, and sexy ones, I love them all. Naturally, then, I couldn't pass up a giveaway hop dedicated to them on the most romantic day of the year.

I'm currently spending time with two delicious vampires from my Sons of Navarus series, Vasilije from Blood Avenged and Saint from Blood Betrayed. Vasilije is earthy and hedonistic, reveling in the pleasures of the flesh, while Saint is darker and tortured, but no less interested in those pleasures Vasilije loves to indulge in. A quick look will show you that both males have what it takes in the pleasure department. ;)

So what's up for grabs in this celebration of vampires for Valentine's Day? One winner will get a signed paperback copy of Blood Avenged, due out this month, and two winners will get Blood Avenged swag packs, including bookmarks from Blood Avenged, Blood Betrayed (the next book in the series due out in May), and Blood Spirit (the third book in the series due out this fall). Plus there will be surprise swag included from my other books too. :)

The only mandatory entry is that you must leave your email address in a comment below, but I'd love it if you'd do the other entries. And if you'd like, come find me on Facebook and follow here! The more the merrier, right? The giveaway is open internationally, and the winners will be chosen by random.org after the giveaway closes at midnight on February 16.

Be sure to hop around to all the blogs entered, and good luck!

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Two Great Reviews For Blood Avenged And Goodies For Readers

2012-02-08T08:29:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was quite a day for reviews here. Blood Avenged garnered two great ones. Night Owl Reviews gave it 4.5 stars and said, "A very well written and emotionally exhaustive paranormal romance book! I loved it! I love finishing a book and thinking, "Wow, I've got no more left"! Bisset is rapidly climbing up in the world of PNR and is a definite must-watch-for writer! I can't wait for the next book in her new Sons of Navarus series!"

And Just Erotic Romance Reviews gave it 5 stars and said, "When you put a great character like Vasilije in a beautifully written story like Blood Avenged you score an instant hit. I can't wait to read more from Ms. Bisset!"

Click on the links for the entire reviews. They're much longer than what I include here, especially the NOR one.

Also, you may have noticed above this post the big pink graphic. To show my appreciation for the wonderful readers out there, my novella Love's Master will be on sale for $.99 February 11-18 at both Amazon and Barnes and Noble. For a little sample of the story, click on the graphic at the top of the post.

Finally, don't forget the TWO Valentine's giveaway hops I'm doing. The Vampires for Valentines Day giveaway begins Friday, and the With Love giveaway begins Saturday. Don't miss them! There will be swag, giftcards, and even paperback books to win, so make sure to come by!

Lower Price For My Paperback Books

2012-02-07T09:40:00.000-05:00

Something has changed at Createspace that has allowed me to lower the price of both paperback versions of Destiny Redeemed and The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy. I'm thrilled because when I published them I'd wanted the price below $10 and couldn't do it because of Createspace's policies. Well, now that's all changed!

New today, Destiny Redeemed and The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy are both now $9.99 at Createspace and should be priced the same at Amazon within a few days. So if you're a fan of having the book in your hand when you read, you can find them at these locations.

Destiny Redeemed

Createspace
Amazon

The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy

Createspace
Amazon

Thanks to all the readers who have asked if my books are in print. While I love my Kindle, I still love the feel of a book in my hand like you do, and I'm so happy I can offer them for a lower price. And look for Blood Avenged in paperback coming soon!

First Sneak Peek at Blood Betrayed

2012-02-06T08:22:00.001-05:00

Over the weekend, amid all the hustle and bustle, I had to finally write the blurb for Blood Betrayed so it could appear on the bookmarks that are being made as I type this. With just a few chapters left in the story, I guess it was time.

It usually takes me a good long while to craft the blurb. I've been trying to keep them under 100 words, and if you've ever had to encapsulate a novel in such a tight space, you know it's a chore sometimes. I have to admit that the blurb for Saint's story came pretty easily, relatively speaking. For once, he didn't give me a hard time. :)

So, here's the blurb for Blood Betrayed so you can have a sneak peek at the story.

I am everything forbidden. I am vampire.

Haunted by betrayal, Saint hides in the human world, giving his heart to no one and finding the only solace from his past in the arms of human women. Now as the Archons begin their takeover of the vampire world, this Son of Navarus has been marked for death.

Summoned to defeat the Archons by the world that shunned him, Saint must face his past and Solenne, the woman he loved and lost a century ago, for only in accepting her will his body and soul finally find salvation.

Look for Blood Betrayed this May. And if you love swag, watch for pics of the bookmarks for the first three books in the Sons of Navarus series later this week. They're gorgeous! Thank you to Talina for the stunning designs.

Hunky Hero Giveaway Hop Sign Ups

2012-02-05T10:53:00.000-05:00

I wanted to give a shout out about the Hunky Hero Giveaway Hop sign ups going on right now over at Riverina Romantics. The great bloggers over there are hosting their first giveaway hop April 16-22. Here are the details:

All authors and book bloggers are welcome to sign up; however we do ask that you are followers of Riverina Romantics either by GFC or Facebook. We also ask that the giveaway is book related, either ebooks, paperbacks or even hunky hero swag. If you link up to this giveaway hop you are responsible for providing the prize(s), determining the winner(s) in a fair manner and for posting them to the winner(s).

So what are you waiting for? Head on over and sign up! I wonder if they're going to be showing hunks like they did a few Wednesdays ago during the XXX week? Hmmmmm....one can only wish. ;) I know I'll be giving away my hunks, including some really great swag with those yummy men from my Sons of Navarus books, so look for that in April.

Have a great one!

Author Tracey Kitts Guest Post

2012-02-04T08:30:00.007-05:00

I see no reason why Frankenstein can’t be sexy

Seriously. Why should Dracula and The Wolfman get to have all the fun? In Mary Shelley’s story, when Victor Frankenstein first looked at his creation he saw him as “beautiful.”

I’ve always thought he had the potential to be not only beautiful, but sexy. We already know he’s supposed to be tall and dark, the rest shouldn’t be a stretch. Ha. Ha.

I’d like everyone to know that my story Frank and The Werewolf Tamer has nothing to do with Mary Shelley’s version, or anyone else’s for that matter. This is my version of a classic creature, with a completely different background. The man in my story, Frank Eastwick isn’t your traditional sort of monster. To me, he isn’t a monster at all.

I can’t tell you all of his secrets in one post, or I’d give away the story. Maybe the best way to describe him is to share an excerpt. This is the first time the heroine of the story, Katherine, sees Frank.

Enjoy!

Frank and The Werewolf Tamer, excerpt:

It was late January and there was still a chill in the air, even in Florida. I’m not sure if it was the warmth coming from inside or fate that made me walk into the main arena that night. The air was filled with the scents of cotton candy and lots of liquor. Needless to say, Notte Oscura was for the twenty-one and over crowd.

I hadn’t taken in any of the attractions on my previous visits, so I had no idea what I was walking into, or why most of the women in the crowd reeked of sexual arousal. I heard the crackle of electricity, and then I saw him. He was well over six feet tall and stood directly in the center of the stage. He was stripped to the waist and though he man had many scars, they did not distract from his beauty. His head was down and mounds of long, black hair trailed over his chest. It looked like the beginning of a live S&M show. His arms were bound to what appeared to be enormous antennas, the way he was turned showed off the well sculpted muscles of his arms. It also revealed what looked like a completely metallic right elbow. He twitched slightly and lightning arched between the polls and from numerous other places around the stage. As the flashes of light and crackle of electricity came to a peak, he tossed back his hair and with a primal yell, broke free from his chains.

He smiled. The crowd went wild and in that instant, looking at that smile, I knew I was lost.

The lightning stopped and with a dramatic flair the tall man slipped into a cloak.

“My name is Frank, and I’ll be your host this evening. Welcome to Notte Oscura.”

The crowd cheered again and I took an involuntary step forward. Though he used his hair to cover the right side of his face, I could tell he had another scar there. I was trying to get a better look when someone pinched my ass. I can think of few things that piss me off more. I reached behind, using my superior speed to grab the pincher by the wrist. I was a bit surprised to feel fur, but that didn’t stop me. I twisted the arm with a violence born of the frustration of my night and locked his elbow in place, taking the werewolf to the floor with a pain-filled howl. This all happened just as Frank said, “Please allow me to introduce…” His words trailed off as the spotlight hit us. “Our new werewolf tamer!”

Frank began to clap and the crowd soon joined him.

“You’re hurting my arm,” the werewolf growled, though he was careful to keep his voice fairly low. Obviously, he didn’t want the crowd to hear.

“I should break it,” I said, pushing down harder to emphasize my words.

He yelped again, but I let him up. He ran onto the stage, snarling and growling on all-fours. With a gesture from Frank, I followed.

Purchase link: http://www.amazon.com/Frank-Werewolf-Tamer-ebook/dp/B006PU2JBW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1325023363&sr=8-1

You can find out more about me and my other books at www.traceyhkitts.com

Grab life by the fangs!

Blood Betrayed So Far...

2012-02-02T09:16:00.000-05:00

Thanks to a terrific schedule this semester, I've had far more time to devote to writing, which is fantastic. If the work gods smile on me, I'll have even more time for the fall. (More on that if it happens. Keep fingers crossed.) In addition to most nights, two days during the week I can devote to writing, and of course, all day Saturday is a given in that department.

Last night I wrote a scene between Vasilije and Saint, and I love how those two work off each other. Vasilije is so smooth and almost smug at times with Saint. There's almost a brother dynamic to their banter, and as easily as Vasilije's words come out of my pen, Saint's flow even nicer. Smooth is great, but I love writing a smart ass. :)

In addition, I've enjoyed creating Saint's relationship with Solenne. While my female leads are never tender flower types, none have ever been as strong as Solenne. I'm not a huge fan of super-tough heroines. They tend to get in the way of what the hero needs to do. I can't tell you how often I've wanted to throw a book across the room (or throw my Kindle across the room) because some female character is in the way of what the hero should be doing or adding to his problems by doing stupid things. So I've been very careful to make Solenne the kind of strong that complements Saint instead of hindering him.

Following up Vasilije has been a real challenge for me, but I think readers will enjoy Saint's darkness in Blood Betrayed. I do love me a tortured soul! And I get to introduce more focal points in the vampire world I'm creating. The Archons are far more involved in this story, and the prophecy the Sons need to figure out is beginning to be revealed to readers.

I'm still looking at a May release for Blood Betrayed. Depending on how the action flows now that things are coming together in the story, it may be an early May release, though. Then it's on to Blood Spirit, which I'm still planning to release in the fall, but I might sneak in a summertime novella before I jump into the third book in the Sons series. I'll have to see what I can fit in, but the trilogy of novellas I planned out a few months ago is still waiting.

Keep checking back for more on Saint and Blood Betrayed. I'll be posting snippets in the upcoming months as things draw to the end. And, of course, I'll be sure to give readers a sneak peak of the sexy side of the book!

Blood Avenged-Book Of The Day at IWriteHot.com

2012-01-30T08:30:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Monday! Blood Avenged is the Book of the Day at IWriteHot.com today, so I'd love it if you'd head on over and show it some love. And if you could post about it on FB and tweet about it to help other people know too, that would be great. :)

The main character, Vasilije, was a joy to write. Never have I had a character who was so completely hedonistic. Everything about him is sensual and earthy. When I was searching for images for the cover art, it took me forever to find just the right model. (I'm meticulous like that about my covers.) They all looked too nice, too sad, too cute.

Then I found him. In his original form, before Talina worked her super cover art mojo, he looked slightly different, mostly due to his surroundings. But the model himself was perfect. Open, sensual, dominant...he was Vasilije. Now as I write Blood Betrayed, anytime I write a scene with Vasilije, I think of the male on the cover. He is Vasilije now.

In other news, Rafflecopter has chosen the winners of the Shameless Giveaway Hop. June Manning won the $10 Amazon giftcard, and Terri won the copy of The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy. Congratulations to both winners! Keep an eye out for more giveaway hops coming up. A list of future hops is in the left sidebar, so be sure to check it out.

Have a great Monday!

Tuesday News-Lovin' The Villain

2012-01-24T10:02:00.000-05:00

I've grown to quickly love Tuesdays and Thursdays this semester since I have no classes or work on those days. After school with my son, I have the entire afternoon and evening each day to write and revise. I can't think of a better way to spend an afternoon. :)

Progress continues on Blood Betrayed, but I have to admit Saint is difficult to write sometimes. I think I was spoiled with Vasilije because his story came so easily. Hedonism is far easier than tortured soul. The thing is, though, that Saint's story has a lot of themes to explore, which makes it even more difficult to write him. In many ways, he reminds me of Amon because of his past continuing to haunt him, but whereas Amon was almost flippant about what he'd done, Saint is far more troubled and cognizant of his actions and the man they've made him into.

Amon is on my mind today because Laurie from Bitten By Paranormal Romance listed him as the best villain in her Top Picks from 2011. More than anything else, I appreciate this because I know from talking to her that he had an effect on her. As an author, there's no award or sale or review that can beat a simple line in an email saying that a character you created was so memorable that he or she stuck with a reader. Thanks, Laurie!

Regarding Vasilije and vampires in general, I'm over at Paranormal Freebies today talking about why I think we love the paranormal. Stop over and leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Blood Avenged.

I'm off to do some schooling and then a whole lot of writing of my tortured bad boy. Have a great Tuesday!

Researching The Romance

2012-01-22T11:15:00.000-05:00

I read a bunch of books in my genres over the holidays, and while some of them were pretty good, the main issue a few had was that they didn't do their research into the many facets of their story. It should go without saying that historical romances require research, but that doesn't seem to always be the case. And paranormals and contemporaries require some kind of research too.

Other countries' histories and cultures are far different than the United States'. Particularly, our social structure is quite fluid and has been for the most part of our history, so someone from the lower classes could conceivably be with someone from the upper classes, even in our earlier days. This is not the case of England in centuries past. A woman of the nobility would never be with someone who is employed as a house servant in any capacity, except for stolen, secret moments. A man who held no title would not be an appropriate suitor for a lady. This is a huge research mistake.

I admit historical gaffes may be easier for me to see because I have a background in the subject, but a mistake on that level makes me think amateur. For me, research is one of the most enjoyable parts of writing, but again, this may be because of my background. I spent a good portion of Saturday making sure my details were correct concerning the Battle of the Somme. And what is that doing in my erotic paranormal romance, Blood Betrayed? A lot and not much at all.

The main character, Saint, and his brother Teagan were made vampires by their sires Kir and Vasilije on the battlefield after the British attack on the German lines in the Battle of the Somme, which began on July 1, 1916. As is my habit, I researched everything from what the battlefield looked like, to the division the Irish brothers would have belonged to (the Ulster 36th Division), to the towns around the river. This takes time, and if you aren't interested in the First World War, it can get quite dreary. I'm a fan of that time period, so for me it was quite enthralling.

I won't include much of what I learned in my research, but it will flavor Saint's past and give readers more subtle clues to who he is. So readers won't get to know all that I know about the Battle of the Somme, but they will know how it felt for him to lie there for hours as he waited to die alongside his injured younger brother, who he'd promised his mother he'd look after. They'll get a sense of what it was like to listen to others dying around him and then be offered the chance for a new life by two strangers who appear out of the night air. In the end, the Battle of the Somme will be just one episode in a long life for Saint, but the scene's symbolic value will be quite important to understanding who he is and why he behaves as he does.

No matter what type of romance I write, research into the various facets of the characters' pasts, the locations of the setting, the clothes of the time, and especially the social mores are steps in the process that can't be missed. When they're missed or done incorrectly, the result is a story that strikes out when it could have hit it out of the park. (Sorry for the baseball reference, but I just heard it's 5 weeks until pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training! Happy, warmer days!)

Grab Some Shameless Goodies!

2012-01-20T00:01:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the Shameless Giveaway Hop! There's no blushing about sex or naughty parts here. Hosted by Jen at Red Hot Books, Brie at Romance Around The Corner, and Michelle at Michelle's Book Blog, this hop is to celebrate sexy. Here's a little something to get you in the mood. ;)

The inspiration for my current WIP, Blood Betrayed

Mmmmmmm......

I'm happy you stopped in because I'm giving away a $10 Amazon Gift Card to one lucky winner and a copy of The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy, including the first chapter of my newest erotic paranormal romance novel, Blood Avenged, to another lucky winner. Just fill in the Rafflecopter form, doing as many of the optional entries as you'd like. The only mandatory one is that you leave a comment with your email, but I'd love it if you'd do the others too.

There are so many other great blogs with terrific prizes too, so don't miss them. The hop will run through January 27, and the winners will be chosen randomly on January 28 and informed by email. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Cover Love x2

2012-01-19T10:00:00.001-05:00

Before I came down with whatever plague has been attacking me, the wonderful Talina Perkins and I had been quietly working on the covers for the next books in the Sons of Navarus series and today I get to unveil two of them. Yes, two! I'm feeling better already.

First up is Blood Betrayed. The main character of this book is a vampire named Saint. Nicknamed that by other vampires because he only sleeps with humans, Saint's real name is Declan and he's been an outcast since he was found guilty of betraying one of the most sacred laws of the vampire world involving the relationship between sire and vampire. Here's how his book begins:

I am everything forbidden.
I am a haunted creature.
I am darkness and shadow.
I am vampire.

Blood Betrayed is scheduled for release in late spring/early summer.

And next on the menu is Blood Spirit. This one focuses on Terek, a much older vampire than Saint or Vasilije. Turned in the 1300s by an Arab trader just before the Black Death ravaged Europe, Terek was a monk in his human life. As a vampire, he's shed his monk ways, but he's kept the mystical side he had as a human. And can you guess who that is on the cover?

Here's how his book begins:

I am everything you seek.
I am a whisper in your soul.
I am secrets and mysteries.
I am vampire.

Blood Spirit is scheduled for a fall release. And the answer to the question of who that is on the cover? Jimmy Thomas.

Thanks to Talina for having such a fantastic creative mind and making covers I love. And can I tell you how much fun it is to search for hot models for covers? Now that's a job I can dive into. ;) Now we have to work on the print cover for Blood Avenged, but then it's on to the next two Sons, Dante and Ramiel. I better get back to writing. No more sick time for me!

Have a great one!

Interview with The Queen

2012-01-13T10:05:00.000-05:00

I'm over at Queentutt's World of Escapism for an interview about Blood Avenged and all things writing with the fantastic Ronda who runs that yummy blog (her ratings are a must see!) Stop over for a chance to win a copy of Blood Avenged and to find out a little more about yours truly. And leave a comment or a question too. I'll be stopping over throughout the day. Before you go, read the excerpt of Blood Avenged for a better sense of what the story's about. (Not for at-work reading or around the kids.)

It's Friday the 13th, and I'm not exactly sure what that means to me, but some people have a fear of the 13th falling on a Friday. I think I have a bigger fear of that guy in the hockey mask! Aaack!

It's snowing here in Northeastern PA, a bad thing in my opinion since I don't like the snow, but that means I'll be in all weekend writing Blood Betrayed, so that's a good thing. It's a glass half-full thing, I guess. Not that I couldn't write just as well in 80 degree and sunny weather. As my daughter says, "Everyone's thinking it. I'm just saying it."

Have a great weekend, and for those of you in sunnier climates, I'm green with envy. :)

Author As Distributor

2012-01-12T08:23:00.000-05:00

This post was supposed to be about something else, but an email from Amazon this morning changed my mind. In that email, Amazon informed me that my book, Destiny Redeemed, is not exclusively for sale at Amazon, as I'd believed, but in fact is still for sale at Sony Ebooks. And the reason they're selling my book Vampire Dreams for $.99 when I changed the price to $1.99 at all the outlets I've uploaded to over a week ago is because Sony Ebooks and Apple Itunes are still selling it at $.99. One problem: I never uploaded anything to either Sony or Apple.

As an indie, I have many choices as to where my books can be purchased. Anyone who thinks that indies are limited to Amazon and Barnes and Noble is in for a big surprise. My books are there, 1 Place for Romance, All Romance eBooks, in addition to Smashwords, which if my book is approved for its premium catalog, it goes out to all sorts of places. It's rather impressive, actually. It's also quite unnerving to know that as the author and sole owner of the work, you have no idea where the hell it's actually selling.

Smashwords is a wonderful resource, but this isn't the first time I've gotten an uneasy vibe from using it. There's just something I don't trust about it, and today's email is why. I checked out the links Amazon sent and there the books are, one where it shouldn't be because it's supposed to be with Amazon exclusively, and the other for less than it should be priced. I took Destiny Redeemed down from Smashwords in mid-December, so why is it still for sale in one of its distribution channels? And I changed the price of Vampire Dreams a week ago. Why is it still the other price?

To be honest, I sell very little at Smashwords itself. I use it more as a place to store my books so I can offer a coupon when people win them in giveaways. However, it's the premium distribution channels that are more important. The problem is that they're so far away from the author who is also the distributor that it's difficult to keep on top of them. But isn't the whole damn point of Smashwords to make things easier? Isn't it supposed to make getting your book to those places easier for an indie? I think it might just be too easy.

But this issue brings home the idea every indie author must remember: As the distributor, you have the responsibility for everything regarding your book. So if you thought that writing, getting cover art, formatting, and uploading were it, here's another job you need to attend to. I still wouldn't have it any other way (unless NY is feeling free with some cash and ebook rights and wants to talk!), but it's a reality that must be handled.

I think it's time I added another resolution to 2012's list. In addition to being smart about marketing and more aggressive about selling, I think I need to add being more attentive to where my books are out there in ebook land. My gut tells me if I don't, I'll regret it.

Tuesday's Book News

2012-01-10T10:39:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I returned to my day job after a month off. Who knew talking for three hours could be so exhausting? LOL To be honest, my schedule this semester is only three hours every MWF afternoon, so I'm not exactly slaving here.

Today I'm over at Fangtastic Books talking about why even though there are some really great paranormal characters around, vampires aren't going to be leaving us any time soon. And Readaholics Anonymous has given Blood Avenged a fantastic review. Head on over there to check out all the wonderful things Dana said about it.

On the writing front, I've been so busy with getting ready for the new semester that I haven't done much in the past few days, but that should change this week. I'm currently in Chapter 5 of Blood Betrayed, and the scheduled release date is still soft but planned for late spring (May/early June).

My wonderful cover artist has been working on the covers for Blood Betrayed and the next book in the series, Blood Spirit. They should be ready to reveal to the world in the coming weeks. And I've begun the formatting of the print version of Blood Avenged. That is scheduled for release by April.

These Sons sure do know how to keep a girl busy, but I wouldn't have it any other way! Hope you're all having a great one today too!

Author Nicki J. Marcus Guest Post

2012-01-09T08:29:00.000-05:00

Dressing the Vampire: From Pantaloons to Punk

Thank you, Gabrielle, for having me over to your blog. I was ruminating on what to write about when it occurred to me that I should base my post on vampires since you and I both write stories featuring them. From there, I found myself thinking about the different ways vampires are portrayed, in particular with regards to costume.

Vampires have been a major part of popular culture for many years now and yet ideas about them can vary wildly. How should they look? What should they wear? Back in the days of Hammer Horror, it was all about Dracula and swirling capes, but in this decade people expect them to sparkle. To consider the exciting variety of vampiric vestiture, let me offer a handful of examples.

Dracula Films

Ah yes, the count. I think everyone would recognise the stereotypical Dracula-vampire: widow’s peak, pale skin and blood red lips, swirling cape and long finger nails. This is a man stuck in a time-warp. Dress yourself like this for a Halloween party and you identity will never be in question.

Interview with a Vampire Film

In the film version, based on the Anne Rice novel, Lestat and Louis offer us the best in frilly cuffs and cravats, bringing a sense of elegance to the table. You get the impression through the film and the books that these are vampires willing to move with the time; vampires who would follow the fashion trends of any century.

Saint-Germain Novels

How I love these books by Chelsea Quinn Yarbro. Her vampire hero is always immaculately attired. He wears the current fashions blended with items of clothing he has acquired from his travels around the world. Since he is thousands of years old, he’s had plenty of time to decide what he likes and build himself a decent wardrobe.

The Southern Vampire Mysteries/True Blood

Being set in the modern day, these vampires are real trend-setters. Having come ‘out of the coffin’, they have two faces: private and public. In public, at the many clubs and bars they own, they wear Goth get-ups intended to draw in punters. In private, they each have their own fashion preferences ranging from jeans to twinsets.

The Lost Boys Film

To be a vampire in this film, you need to get yourself a really bad 80’s haircut and plenty of denim and leather. The lads in this film favour an almost punk look, so stock up on the hair gel and get ready to groove to the 80’s beat.

The Twilight Saga

So, here we are. We’ve hit sparkle time. Twilight vampires don’t stand out much in the costume stakes (haha); although, they are always nicely dressed and turned out. Get them in the sun however and they’ll show you some serious bling!

So, it just goes to show you that not all vampires are made equal —at least not in the clothing department. When you are dressing your own vampires, consider what you are trying to achieve. Are you after classic horror appeal (Dracula)? Perhaps you’d prefer old-world refinement (Interview with the Vampire)? Are you vampires classy and moving with the times (True Blood)? Or are they just stuck in the 80’s (Lost Boys)? Clothing can say a great deal about a character, so it’s worth paying a bit of attention to it.

One thing is certain: Whether you want capes, cravats or Calvin Klein, there’s a vampire out there for you!

Nicki J Markus – Biography

Nicki J Markus was born in England in 1982, but she now lives in Adelaide, South Australia with her husband. She has loved both reading and writing from a young age and is also a keen linguist, having studied several foreign languages. She has completed a BA (hons) English with French from the University of Greenwich, London and a PGDip in Translation from the University of the West of England, Bristol. She is currently studying for diplomas in Editing and Publishing.

Nicki J Markus launched her writing career in 2010 and her fiction work has been accepted for e-book publication by both Wicked Nights Publishing and Silver Publishing. She has also done editing work for both these publishers.

In her spare time, Nicki J Markus also enjoys many other creative pursuits including music, theatre, photography, sketching and web-design. She also has a keen interest in history, folklore and mythology, pen-palling and travel.

http://www.nickijmarkus.com

http://www.facebook.com/NickiJMarkus

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4567057.Nicki_J_Markus

Day-Walker Blurb

When Darci spots a mysterious stranger at her latest concert, she is instantly smitten. Will is the perfect gentleman and seems to be everything she has been waiting for. But Will has a terrifying secret and soon Darci finds herself in grave peril. Will her love for him give her the strength she’ll need to prevail against overwhelming odds?

Will is drawn to Darci Madison from the moment she steps out onto the stage. He knows he shouldn’t approach her, knows his secret could put her in danger if he gets too close. But he also realizes that he cannot live without her. When his enemies learn of Darci’s existence and emerge from the shadows, Will must fight to save the woman he loves ... even though it may require the ultimate sacrifice.

For deep in the night, creatures are stirring in the darkness; creatures that long to infiltrate the light.

Friday Sweetness

2012-01-06T09:49:00.000-05:00

Hi all! It's my last Friday of vacation before I have to return to the day job, so I'm enjoying it for all it's worth. I'm over at author Tam Quijas' place talking about the mythology of my vampire world, and my vampire Vasilije is wrapping up the week at Riverina Romantics with an interview with the wonderful Megan. He swore he was on his best behavior, so check out if she's made it through the interview without coming under his spell.

In the spirit of loving the good things in life, here's the wonderful Ray Charles singing Georgia On My Mind. It doesn't get any better. Have a great one!

Thursday Roundup: A New Cover, A Trailer, and A Great Review

2012-01-05T10:31:00.000-05:00

It's almost the weekend, but there's still a little more to do before we get there. Today, I've got a new cover, a trailer post, and a fabulous review all for Blood Avenged. Let's get started with the new cover. The incredible Talina Perkins and I got together because I'm doing an ad campaign later this year, and she worked her magic to create the new cover for Blood Avenged. Take a look:

It's similar to the previous cover, but now it includes the Sons of Navarus series info. Yours truly searched out the graphic that looks like a weapon that flanks the sides of the info. It's meant to symbolize Hades, the Greek god of the Underworld, whose daughter plays an important part in the vampire world. One of his weapons was a two-pronged spear similar to the one on the cover. Next up: Blood Betrayed. Look for that cover coming soon!

And Blood Avenged's book trailer is in the spotlight over at Readaholics Anonymous today, so if you haven't checked it out, hop on over and take a look!

Last, but not least, Megan at Riverina Romantics has given Blood Avenged 4.5 out of 5 stars, calling it "yet another example of excellent writing by Gabrielle Bisset" and saying, "This book is grittier than Gabrielle's other works. I must say, she does gritty good." Thanks, Megan! Head over there to read her whole review.

And have a fantastic Thursday!

Interviews, Vampires, and Reviews, Oh My!

2012-01-03T10:03:00.000-05:00

Today begins a 4 day event for Blood Avenged over at Riverina Romantics. I'm there today with an interview, and through the rest of the week, there will be an interview with Vasilije, an exclusive excerpt from the book, and the event will end with a review. I'm giving away a copy of Blood Avenged, so be sure to enter when you stop over. Thanks to the wonderful ladies of Riverina Romantics for having me over again!

I'm in the middle of writing the follow-up book to Blood Avenged, Blood Betrayed. This is Declan's story, and even though I promised myself I'd take December off, he had other ideas. So instead of beginning it now, I'm four chapters in. If Declan, the muse, and I don't run into any snags along the way, Blood Betrayed should be out before summer rolls around.

And then there are reviews. The Pen and Muse reviewed Blood Avenged, giving it 4 stars, and Night Owl Reviews tackled Destiny Redeemed, giving it 4.75 out of 5 stars. Selling books is terrific, but reading that someone saw in your work what you hoped readers would is fantastic. It doesn't always happen. One day you're the Louisville slugger, and the next day you can be the ball. Reviews are merely one person's opinion and it's important to not put too much stock in them lest your head get all puffed up, but it's still nice to read that someone enjoyed your story you love so much.

Hope your Tuesday sees you as the Louisville slugger!

Destiny Redeemed and The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy Available In Paperback

2012-01-02T08:03:00.001-05:00

UPDATE: Just after I posted this Amazon listed both books for sale there too. So readers can find them at Amazon and Createspace.

Now that the holidays are over, I put my nose to the grindstone and finally approved the paperbacks for Destiny Redeemed and The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy. Both are available now at Createspace. So for all of you who have asked if my books would ever be available in paperback, this is for you. :)

Here are the links for both books:

Destiny Redeemed (348 pages) and at Amazon

The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy (324 pages) and at Amazon

And I've gotten inquiries about whether or not Blood Avenged will be in print any time soon. I hadn't planned on it, but I'm considering it now after being asked by so many people. I'll let readers know as soon as I decide what I plan to do.

Ring In The New Year With Amazing Books

2011-12-31T08:58:00.000-05:00

As we say goodbye to 2011 and begin 2012, I want to help spread the word about new authors and titles. Through New Year's Day, my blog will be open to fellow authors posting blurbs along with buy links to their books. It's a new kind of blog hop!

Just include the link to the book, the blurb, title, author name and genre, and the link to your "Ring in the New Year with these amazing ebooks!" post on your own blog so I can reciprocate and post my book on your blog too. Don't forget to tweet about your post using the hashtag #newyearsbookpromo

To get the ball rolling, here is some information on my books. I look forward to seeing other authors and their offerings in the comments section.

Blood Avenged

I am everything you desire. I am vampire.

Powerful and manipulative, Vasilije does as he pleases. A vampire beholden to no one, he takes what he desires, drinking deeply the pleasures this life has to offer.

When one of his own is staked, Vasilije must travel to New Orleans to exact his revenge. There he meets Sasa, a beautiful woman who arouses him like no other has for centuries. Vasilije’s need for vengeance is equaled only by his passion for her, but what he finds in his revenge is just the beginning...

Available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and All Romance eBooks

Destiny Redeemed

Sentenced to spend the rest of his three remaining lifetimes in Nil, Amon Kalins is freed with the help of his Sidhe servant, Gethen, but now he must accept his life is never to be his again as the Council won't rest until he's safely back imprisoned within Nil's cold walls. Broken and nearly dead from his time in prison, Amon is saved by an Aeveren healer named Althea Forester. As a healer, Thea has served her people for forty-five lifetimes, never having a destined one and always knowing each lifetime would ultimately end with her alone. But destiny hasn't forgotten her.

Drawn to the seductive Amon, Thea quickly becomes a pawn the Council uses to trap him. Taken prisoner by the sadistic leader of the rebel group, the Soren, Thea must survive the vicious world of the people hellbent on taking her destined one away forever, and Amon must risk everything dear to him to free her from those who would sacrifice her to claim the bigger prize and return him to Nil.

Available at Amazon

The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy

For the first time the Amazon bestsellers Vampire Dreams, Love's Master, and Masquerade can be found in one volume.

Take a trip back to Victorian England with three erotic stories of sex and love. A lonely vampire falls in love, but will his sire stand in his way of finally finding happiness? A young widow seeks a tutor to discipline her nephew but learns her true nature at the hands of a dominant lover. A strong-willed woman refuses to be married off and instead plans an indiscretion, but will she succumb to the charms of the man she thought was only her pawn? The repressed world of Queen Victoria has never been so sexy!

Available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and All Romance eBooks

To find out more about these books and my others, click on the book covers in the right sidebar to go to each book's page. There you can find excerpts and other goodies. Have a wonderful New Years!

Pay Nothing For SweetPea Delights: Easy Meal Ideas For Moms On The Go Through 12-31

2011-12-30T08:30:00.002-05:00

I'm thrilled to help spread the news that Talina Perkins is offering her new cookbook, SweetPea Delights: Easy Meal Ideas For Moms On The Go, for FREE at Amazon December 30 and 31. Here's the blurb:

We all love sharing easy and delicious meal ideas with our friends and family members. Sitting down to a warm and hearty meal each night is a blessing my family and I are always thankful for. But at times getting those meals whipped up is a lot harder when our schedules keep us so busy.

In SweetPea Delights: Easy Meal Ideas For Moms-On-The-Go I have pulled together over 90 delicious family recipes, to help you bring a warm and hearty meal to your table. You’ll find yummy Grab 'n' Go Breakfast Cookies to lighten up your morning. For warm and cozy lunch how about Quick & Spicy Chicken ‘n Rice and for dinner serve your family a fun What-The-Hay taco meal. You’ll even find recipes for easy and delicious snacks everyone will love!

Beyond the easy meal ideas, you’ll also find cooking tips and inspirations sprinkled within the pages to add flavor to your cooking experience.

So, let’s get started with SweetPea Delights: Easy meal Ideas For Moms-On-The-Go!
Don't miss out! Grab the FREE download at Amazon.

Click here to download printable recipe cards, tags and a

Cooking Utility Software from SweetPea Delights

***Note: downloads are close to the bottom of the page. New designs will be uploaded on the night of the 29th and further updates will occur regularly, check FB Fan Pages and blog for updates.

Destiny Redeemed, Erotic Paranormal Romance, Free on Amazon Through December 29!

2011-12-27T08:38:00.000-05:00

To say thank you to all the readers who have made 2011 so wonderful for me, including the many new readers who found me in the past few days, Destiny Redeemed is FREE today through December 29 on Amazon sites worldwide, so don't miss the chance to grab a copy!

Here's the blurb:

Monday Musings

2011-12-26T14:14:00.000-05:00

I'm exhausted from the holiday, but I wanted to post today since I have some blog stuff to clean up. First, I've been dealing with Triberr difficulties since 12-22, so I can't see anyone's posts to tweet. I think mine are still going through, but Triberr doesn't recognize me or my twitter account, so I'm out of luck until the tech dudes (and dudettes, if there are any there) clear the situation up. I want to thank all the fabulous people in my tribes for continuing to retweet my posts. I hope the problem gets cleared up soon so I can go back to doing the same for you. :)

Also, my books saw great sales between Christmas Eve and this morning, so I've decided to take advantage of Amazon Prime's opportunity to offer Destiny Redeemed for free beginning at 12 am Pacific time on December 27 (which means unless Amazon has decided it doesn't have to follow the time zones 3 am tomorrow morning on the east coast) and running for three days. I'll be posting more about this tomorrow, but keep an eye out for it later tonight.

And finally, the winner of the 12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop is Carol L. Congratulations to Carol! An email is on its way to her right now. Thanks to all who stopped by and entered. Check back again because I love doing giveaways, and there always seems to be a holiday to celebrate. :)

Hope everyone has a great Monday!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T08:30:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas to all! May your holiday be filled with love and laughter.

New Year's Blog Hop

2011-12-22T23:59:00.007-05:00

Another year over, and it's been a great one, hasn't it? And now we're moving into 2012, another exciting year. I'm never a big one for New Year's, especially the resolutions since they never hold up, but to celebrate the end of what's been a terrific year, I decided to join Tonya Kinzer's New Year's Blog Hop and give away the books that have made my year so great.

The giveaway is international, so as long as you have an email, you're in. All you have to do is leave a comment with your email for an entry. For an extra entry, follow my blog (if you do, let me know you did in your comment). That's it. Of course, if you choose to, I'd love to have you follow me on Twitter @gabriellebisset and on Facebook too.

So what are the prizes? First prize wins their choice of any two of my books and second prize wins their choice of one of my books. Look in the right sidebar for the lineup of books to choose from.

Have a wonderful holiday, and enjoy the blog hop, which runs from December 23 through midnight on January 1!

A Chat Today and A New Newspaper

2011-12-21T08:20:00.000-05:00

Today, I will join authors Natasha Blackthorne, Gale Stanley, and Karen Mercury for an all-day chat at Beth Wylde's Yahoo Group starting at 9am. The four of us are quite a diverse group, so it ought to offer something for everyone. I write erotic paranormal, primarily, with some erotic historicals thrown in. Natasha writes erotic historicals focused on late 18th and early 19th century America; Gale writes contemporary menage; and Karen writes historicals focused on the 19th century American west. There will be giveaways and lots of talking about erotic romance, in addition to anything else that pops into the conversation, so we hope you'll drop by.

Also, I've created a daily newspaper with Paper.li called Romance With A Little Spice Daily. You can see the headlines in the left sidebar widget, which will take you to the entire newspaper, if you click on it. It's created from my Twitter stream and is for adults since there can be some nudity involved (beware if you're reading it at work).

Check it out and subscribe! I'm friends with some very interesting Tweeps! You never know what's going to make the news. ;)

Have a great Wednesday and don't forget about the chat at Beth Wylde's!

Thanks For A Wonderful 2011!

2011-12-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

I decided to seek publication for one of my books last January. By April, I knew that the route I'd chosen for my first book was a mistake. I'm of the mindset that you live and learn, so since I knew I wanted to continue writing and wanted readers to have the chance to read my books, I turned to indie publishing.

When I published my first indie book on June 1 of this year, I never believed that in just over six months I would sell 15,000 books, but I hit that mark sometime overnight. When I reached 1000 sales in the first week of August, I was thrilled, but this has nearly made me speechless (you'd have to know me to understand that nearly is as close to speechless as I'll ever get LOL).

I have to be honest. When I began this indie publishing adventure, I had no definite sales goals. That's just who I am. I don't think small as much as not at all when it comes things like that. Don't get me wrong. I want to be able to do this for a living someday, hopefully soon, but I never thought about how many I hoped to sell. I just wrote what I loved and made sure it was solid and polished before I put each book out.

I sold 150 copies of Vampire Dreams in June, and for me, that was great. By the end of the summer, all three of the novellas in the Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy were on more than one Amazon Top 100 list and I thought, "Maybe I can sell 5000 books by next June 1." For the first time, I put a number on the whole thing, but it wasn't something I obsessed over. It was just a nice, round number, and I thought it would be a nice bar to reach. A good friend of mine told me that when I mentioned it to him, he secretly wasn't sure I could do it, but he certainly hoped it would happen. When I told him that I reached 15K, he smiled and said, "This might just be something." I think so too. :)

Thank you to all the readers out there who have been so supportive this year. To the bloggers who have been so wonderful in hosting me and reviewing my books, I can't thank you enough. And to my cover artists, Elaina Lee and Talina Perkins, you're the best. You make readers take that first look and give me the chance to convince them to buy my books.

So what's in store for future goals? I still don't know. All I know is that I'm going to continue to write what I love and make sure it's the best product it can be when I put it out there. I've begun the new series, The Sons of Navarus, with Blood Avenged and I'm aiming for the first book, if not the first two books, to be out in the next year. I hope you stick around. The fun has just begun. Bring on 2012!

Loving Those Vampires

2011-12-19T11:30:00.000-05:00

I'm over at the wonderful blog The Enchanted Book with a guest post about how I love writing about vampires. I keep reading that vampires are on their way out. As much as I hate to disagree, they're what sell for me. But even more than the fact that they sell books, I enjoy writing about vampires. To me, they're the sexiest paranormal creature, so I write what I love.

I broke my promise to myself this weekend and started writing the sequel to Blood Avenged. I fully intended to write it but not until after Christmas. However, the muse had other ideas and while I had the whole house to myself since my son was gone camping, I began Declan's story, Blood Betrayed. Between Friday and Sunday night, I got about 15 pages written, so it's a good start.

Who knows what this week will be like, but the story is simmering in my head, just waiting to get out. It's outlined and ready, so I could get some real work done on it even before January. Isn't it great when you love what you do?

Enjoy your Monday!

Winners of the Romancing Christmas Giveaway Hop

2011-12-18T12:59:00.000-05:00

Random.org has done its magic and these two lucky people are the winners of a $10 Amazon gift card each in the Romancing Christmas Giveaway Hop:

Leannz0r

AND

Michelle Bledsoe

Congratulations to both winners! I'll be sending an email to them momentarily, and if you weren't one of the winners, don't forget that I still have the 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway Hop going on until December 24, and the prize there is a $20 Amazon gift card and some super swag.

Words I Can Live By

2011-12-17T10:29:00.000-05:00

In an article yesterday about the death of Christopher Hitchens at age 62 from esophageal cancer, Rabbi Brad Hirschfield wrote in referring to Hitchens' passion, "Find the passion where you can and when you can, the rest is commentary, as long as your passion leads you to care and concern for others beyond yourself."

I won't go into a discussion about Hitchens, other than to say despite the fact that for me he was too liberal at times, the world was a better place for having him in it and an emptier place now that his voice is gone. But Rabbi Hirschfield's comment on passion resonated with me the instant my eyes flowed over the words on the screen.

"Find the passion where you can and when you can, the rest is commentary, as long as your passion leads you to care and concern for others beyond yourself."

Perfect words for this holiday season and words I can live by. Thank you, Rabbi, for your insightfulness, and thank you Christopher Hitchens for stirring the shit when others wished you'd be quiet.

Friday Fun and Three Fab Reviews For Blood Avenged

2011-12-16T09:33:00.001-05:00

It's Friday again, and it's the first Friday of my vacation, so I'm ready for a great day of relaxation. I watched Beauty and The Beast last night on television. I love those Disney cartoons, and that one is one of my favs. I'm a romantic at heart, and the idea of true love overcoming what someone's outside looks like to show the wonderful inside they possess gets me every time. And I love Belle's character for her willingness to see past what her eyes see to focus on how much good there is in the Beast. A very nice way to spend a night.

Blood Avenged has been out officially for two days, and the reviews have been fabulous! Monique at Romance Novel Junkies gave it 5 stars, saying, " This story was great for me...it is one of those stories that grips you with each chapter as the story develops. Vasilije’s character in ‘Blood Avenged’ was sensual, erotic, and dangerous."

Selena at The Enchanted Book gave it 5 books and raved, "I always go into a vampire romance hoping for the best. This time I got it. This one is a must-read for any vampire romance fan."

And Nookmom at Bitten By Paranormal Romance rated it a 5-An Alpha Howl and said, "This was my first novel by this author and I will definitely be reading more by her. Vasilijie is everything I look for in a vampire. He makes no excuses for his behavior. He is what he is and enjoys every minute of it."

As an author, it's so great when readers see in your characters and story what you saw. If you haven't checked out the excerpt yet, click HERE, but it's hot, so if you're at work or the kiddies are around, beware. ;)

I'm over at the fabulous Talina Perkins' site, Bookin' It Reviews today for her Christmas Book Bash. Stop over and leave a comment to say hi. Hope to see you there!

Today is the last day for the Romancing Christmas Giveaway Hop, so if you haven't entered yet, you have until midnight tonight.

Time to fly and get school with my son done before I head out for a little Christmas celebrating. Have a great one! And here's some Greg Lake with one of the best Christmas songs ever to begin your weekend. It's a little jaded, but for all of us who keep to the deeper meaning pushed aside by the commercialism of the season, it says something important. Enjoy! (It's better if you just listen and don't watch the video. It's a bit hokey. LOL)

Author Suzanne Rock Guest Post

2011-12-15T08:00:00.023-05:00

Top Five Romantic Movies
Hi everyone! I thought I'd take this opportunity to talk a little bit about something that is near and dear to my heart -- good movies. I'm a big movie addict, and some of my favorites are the ones that contain a healthy does of romance. So today, I thought that I'd offer you my top five favorite romantic movies.
1) Romancing the Stone
I think every romance novelist has seen this movie. Many point at it as the inspiration that got them writing romances. This movie has it all -- adventure, mystery, and of course, a heroine who writes romance novels. Who could ask for anything more?

2) Cassablanca
This is such a classic. who could forget Igrid Bergman's famous line "Play it, Sam. Play ‘As time Goes By’" Or Bogart's "Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, she walks into mine." There are so many good scenes, and the chemistry between Bergman and Bogart makes the screen sizzle. The movie is totally swoon-worthy.

3) Bridget Jones Diary
I think every woman can identify with Bridget, at least a little bit. And who doesn't fall in love with Collin Firth? Some of the scenes are hilarious, and the ending will leave you sighing and wishing you had a Colin of your own.

4) Sabrina/My Fair Lady
I don't know, there is something about the cantankerous Henry Higgins that I find endearing. I love the way Eliza makes his world crumble, and how she makes him see that he needs to stop observing life, and start living it. Whether it is musical (My Fair Lady) or the older movie version (Sabrina), this Pygmalian adaptation will always remain on my keeper shelf.

5) Pretty Woman
Who doesn’t want Richard Gere to come and sweep them off their feet? Many of the themes here are echoes of My Fair Lady (above) and it shows that the story is timeless. Love it!

So there you have it, my top five favorite romantic movies. Do you agree? Are there other movies that I left off the list that you enjoy? Tell me about it!

Whispers

Blurb:

Rose is skeptical when Lady Denville hires her to take care of some ghosts in her townhouse. She expects to find a nest of rats or branches scraping against a window. Instead she finds two sexy spirits intent on fulfilling her every sexual desire. They introduce her to a whole new world of pleasure — and a curse that may destroy them all.

Lionel and Jonathan have been trapped in the townhouse for decades, waiting. When Rose walks in, they know that she is the one with the power to save them. The key to their freedom lies within reach, and both men must put aside their differences if they ever hope to break the curse that binds them to the townhouse. As the men set out to seduce Rose and gain their freedom, their sexual desire turns into something more. Now they must be honest with the woman they love, or stay imprisoned in the spirit world forever.

Excerpt:

Rose stood at the top of the stairs and listened. The moans were louder now, and she could easily distinguish the two tones.She scanned the area around her, but it was too dark to see much beyond her hands.

She straightened her light green dress, chosen to match her eyes, and poked a wispy blonde curl back into her twist. If Lady Denville indeed had guests up here, then Rose had to make sure to look her best.

She picked up a candle off the nearby end table and lit it. The soft glow illuminated the hallway, which looked as if it hadn’t had a good dusting in ages. Thick velvet curtains had been pulled over the windows, blocking any light. It was so unlike Lady Denville to keep her upstairs closed up like this.

Besides the depressing atmosphere, nothing seemed out of the ordinary with the crimson carpet and dark wood walls. Rose took a deep breath, steeled her jaw, and stepped forward.

The noises filled the air, fanning her desire from a small spark into a large flame. They were smooth and melodic, almost blending with each other. Her body warmed, and she placed her hand to her cheek. Her husband wasn’t overly amorous, and it had been a long time since she had enjoyed the pleasures of the bedroom. The noises spoke to something feminine and primal deep inside her body. It awoke and rushed through her system, leaving her breathless.

The sensations felt…strange. She had not felt anything so strong before, not even with her own husband. What could be making her feel this way, and could it alleviate the ache forming between her legs? She inched forward a step, then two. With each small advance, her desire grew until she found it difficult to concentrate on the matter at hand. She paused as a name echoed off the walls.

“Jonathan.”

Her skin tingled with sexual awareness as the deep, commanding voice rippled through her body. Rose slid her fingers along the low-cut edge of her dress, then dipped them between her breasts. How did it get so warm in here?

And who was Jonathan?

She continued to the very end of the hall. It was darkest here, the heavy curtains in the windows blocking all light. She heard new noises now, like the shifting of furniture. They seemed to be coming from behind the large wooden door. A low glow shone through the cracks as the moans grew louder.

Heat traveled over her skin as she stared at the strange light. A light breeze blew over her skin, just like it had when she was downstairs moments ago. It did nothing to cool her rising temperature or the fluttering in her stomach.

The flame on the candle flickered, then extinguished. She fought back the sudden urge to shed her clothes as confusion filled her mind. She had to know what was behind the door, not just for Lady Denville’s sake, but for her own. Rose needed to find out what was making her feel like some animal in heat.

Rose felt the familiar ache low in her abdomen. She was desperate for something to ease the building pressure between her legs, but nothing suitable was available. She resisted the urge to rip off her clothes and touch herself, for she suspected such an act would do little to alleviate the growing ache. She craved something bigger and stronger to satisfy her. The whole situation felt barbaric and yet thrilling at the same time.

Rose moistened her lips and turned the knob…

~~~Suzanne Rock~~~

Love Immortalized, Destinies Fulfilled

Bio:

After over a decade in the scientific world, Suzanne needed a creative outlet. She tried scrap booking, cooking, crocheting, painting, and piano, none of which held her interest for very long. Then one of her friends suggested writing. Thrilled with the idea of creating her own worlds, she opened up her lap top and never looked back.

When Suzanne’s not writing, she can be found playing with her two daughters, testing her husband’s latest kitchen creations, or curled up with her favorite romance novel in her central Massachusetts home.

Website: www.SuzanneRock.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/suzanne.rock

Twitter: www.twitter.com/Suzanne_Rock

Linked In: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/suzanne-rock/39/832/9a4

Online Writing classes: http://suzannerock.com/?page_id=64

Books on Writing (with Em Petrova): http://smolderingheat.wordpress.com/

Free Reads: http://suzannerock.com/?page_id=626

Kyron Pack Series (werewolf): http://suzannerock.com/?page_id=100

Unholy Series (demons): http://suzannerock.com/?page_id=858

Immortal Ream Series (a little bit of everything paranormal): http://suzannerock.com/?page_id=139

Blood Avenged's Release Day

2011-12-14T08:20:00.001-05:00

Happy Wednesday everybody! I'm celebrating the official release of Blood Avenged today. True, Amazon has had it up since late Monday night and it's already begun selling, but I'd set December 14 as the official release day for my sixth and last release of 2011. Wow, it's been a busy year!

Anyone who's read Vampire Dreams (You say you haven't? Well, you can grab it for $.99!) remembers Vasilije. He made quite an impression on readers, who immediately began asking when he'd get his own story. I enjoyed him a great deal too, so in July I began working on what would become Blood Avenged. I still had to finish typing Masquerade, release it in late August, edit Destiny Redeemed in September and release it in October, but I knew I wanted to give Vasilije his time in the spotlight. After my trip to New Orleans around Halloween, I completed the story and then it was just a matter of editing.

But a strange thing happened on the way to the end of Blood Avenged--a series was born. What began as a novel about one character became a novel that would begin the Sons of Navarus series. That Vasilije sure knows how to inspire. :)

So Blood Avenged is Vasilije's story, but he'll be sticking around in the upcoming novels of the series since he's one of the Sons of Navarus. There are eight vampires in the Sons, a group chosen to protect the most ancient and revered of vampires, the Order of Macaria, and each of them will have a story. Readers get to meet all the fantastic Sons at the end of Blood Avenged, and there's a man for every taste. ;)

The books will continue to be erotic paranormal romance, but the non-romantic story will be strong in them too. All the books in the series will be novel length, and I hope to have the first one released before summer 2012. If the muse and I are working well together, I may even have the second of the Sons series out around this time next year.

Click HERE for a very hot excerpt from Blood Avenged to whet your appetite. The woman Vasilije meets when he travels to New Orleans to hunt down the killer of one of his vampires is named Sasa, and when they get together, the chemistry is potent.

Don't forget the two giveaways that are still going on. Click on both the graphics in the left sidebar so you can enter to win some much needed Amazon gift cards this holiday season because after we're done shopping for everyone else, we want to relax and do a little shopping for ourselves, right? Have a great Wednesday!

Oh My! This Is Erotic! Really?

2011-12-13T16:40:00.000-05:00

My son directed me to a 1 star rating for Vampire Dreams today. He's an idealistic 15 year old and was bothered by the review some woman named Mamie left that states this:

I missed the "erotica" in the category. I should have read more carefully before I purchased, but that was my mistake. The story was obviously meant to arouse rather than entertain.

To my son, and I have to agree with him, this is something Amazon shouldn't allow. She freely admits she didn't pay attention when she spent the $.99 to purchase the book and that what she got wasn't what she wanted because of her own mistake. Yet, she dings the book with a 1 star rating because of her screw up, not because it wasn't written well.

My friend told me yesterday that she doesn't believe Amazon UK has so many reviews as Amazon US because Brits are far more humble and don't naturally believe their opinion is of the utmost importance. I don't know enough British folks to say, but it does seem Americans are all about the opinions.

I explained to my son that not everyone is going to enjoy my work. I write erotic romances, and for Mamie, that doesn't work. She prefers Debbie Macomber romances. That's cool, but I'm with my son when he says that her mistake shouldn't negatively affect me.

However, the silver lining to this story is that I personally noted this part of her review: The story was obviously meant to arouse rather than entertain. Yes, Mamie, it's adult reading material. If it arouses the reader, then I've done what I set out to do in an erotic novella. And Mamie, those of us who read and write adult books are also entertained by them.

I can't imagine how she missed the erotic part considering right after the title are these words (First in The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy) and this is what she sees when she encounters Vampire Dreams' page on Amazon:

Product Description

Reviews:

WOW, what an amazing read! This is why I love vampire erotica stories. As much as you love a dangerous vampire, it's mainly about the sensuality and seduction of a vampire that makes you enjoy the read. I have never read anything by this author as she is new, but when an author can amaze you with their first release you know you can expect only more good reading material.

--Lady Raven

Beyond the sensuality is a well-written story. The author constructs a vampire world where there is a hierarchy that involves rules of who a vampire can sire. In this world, potential vampires must be vetted through one's sire, and Brandon has the difficult luck of having a sire in Vasilije who's selfish and cruel. The conflict that grows out of these rules is interesting and makes me want to read more about this world.

--Selena, The Enchanted Book

Homeless and without any family, Arden Stephens must live on the streets of mid 19th century London, never a safe place for a young woman. One night, as she is running for her life from an attacker, she is rescued by Brandon Ridley and offered a place in his home as his maid. Brandon is enchanted by Arden from the moment they meet, but just as she has secrets, so too does he. A vampire hundreds of years old, he yearns for the companionship she can give him. But for that he must make her one of his kind.

Nightly, he visits her in her sleep, preparing her for the night he will finally make her his own. For Arden, the wanton dreams she has about her handsome employer seduce her and each day when she wakes up, she finds herself more drawn to him. But love and desire aren't enough for Brandon to sire her. He must first obtain the approval of his maker, an ancient vampire named Vasilije who has thwarted his chance for happiness before.

But if Brandon can convince him, he may finally find the love he's been without for centuries.

Novella length: approx. 17,000 words
Erotic novella--Adults only

Look for the other novellas in the Trilogy, Love's Master and Masquerade, out now! And the one volume set of The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy is also available at $3.99, a savings of $1.00 on all three and includes the entire first chapter of Vasilije's story, Blood Avenged.

Product Details

Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 98 KB
Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B0053ZGVXW
Lending: Enabled
Average Customer Review: 3.7 out of 5 stars See all reviews (15 customer reviews)
Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,589 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store)
- #15 in Books > Romance > Vampires
- #37 in Books > Literature & Fiction > Erotica
- #39 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Fiction > Erotica

I guess Mamie missed all these things telling her exactly what it was since Amazon and I aren't trying to hide anything.

Lesson for authors in this? Write what you believe in and when it sells almost 10,000 copies in just a few months and sits in the top 50 of Vampire Romance Books and Erotica for 5 months running, don't worry about the Mamies of this world. I just hope she doesn't make the same mistake and read Blood Avenged. She won't make it back from that level of erotic romance. ;)

12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop

2011-12-13T00:01:00.016-05:00

Welcome to the 12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop hosted by Intoxicated by Books! It's almost time for the big day, and here at my blog I'm giving away some great stuff. One winner will receive a $20.00 Amazon gift card and some terrific swag (signed bookmarks and cover flats).

So here's the lowdown:

The giveaway is open internationally, so an email address puts you in the running.

You must leave a comment with your email so I can contact you when you win. (1 entry) While following my blog would be very nice, it's not a requirement.

For additional optional entries, you can do the following:

Friend me on Facebook (1 entry) https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002481284652&sk=info

Follow me on Twitter (1 entry) https://twitter.com/#!/gabriellebisset

Do me a favor and add up all your entries when you leave your comment and email addy. Thanks! The giveaway hop runs until midnight on December 24, so make sure to hop around to all the great blogs participating. The winner will be chosen by random.org right after Christmas. Have a wonderful holiday, and good luck!

Author Starla Kaye Guest Post

2011-12-12T08:30:00.001-05:00

I'm happy to welcome author Starla Kaye to the blog today. She's here talking about one of romance's favorite heroes, the cowboy.

Shhh, don’t tell anyone…Starla Kaye is in love with 7 cowboys

What can I say…I LOVE cowboys! Give me a tall, hard-bodied man in worn jeans, dusty boots, low-tipped hat and that lazy, confident ambling walk and I’m a goner. Add a deep, husky drawl and an easy-going temperament…or a quiet manner and a man of few words…or a personality a bit on the broody side...okay, I want all of them.

I’ve been writing stories about contemporary and historical cowboys for a long time. Actually, with this newest anthology of seven stories, I have had the pleasure of getting to know and love 31 cowboys. You would think cowboy romances are all I publish, but that’s not true. I have worked with and loved contemporary businessmen, a pirate, a futuristic space pilot/warrior, medieval knights, Scottish Highland warriors, and a shape-shifter wolf. Yet time and again I come back to write about more cowboys.

The men in Cowboys in Charge, my Christmas anthology, are all on the alpha side, all strong-willed, and all of them are in love with women who drive them nuts (or is it they drive the women nuts?).

In Snowed in with Her Cowboy, James wants Kelly to quit a job she doesn’t really like and start a family. Her family history makes her fear having children and her strong stubborn tendency won’t let her quit work. But how much can a man take, even when he loves his wife intensely?

In Too Much Red at Christmas Time, Trent loves his wife but the ranch has been struggling financially and Lizzie’s addiction to Christmas shopping is a serious problem. No matter how many times they talk about it and no matter how many times she promises to stick to their budget, the situation gets worse. What can he do to save his marriage…or can he?

In For the Love of his Cowgirl, Adam and Amber are so busy they seldom do more than fall into bed exhausted. Both miss the fun games they once played and the steamy sex. He doesn’t know what to do to fire up the flames of their love again. But can he give her up?

In Cowboys and Their Toys, Jason is not only a strong alpha male but also a Dom. Jennifer has eased into his preferred lifestyle without complaint…until he wants to take it up to 24/7. Can he back away from his desire to go more intense? Or can he give all of it up to save his marriage?

In Naughty, Naughty Cowgirl, Justin is a believer in being the head of his household with the use of domestic discipline when necessary. Nicci accepted it for five years and finally decided she was done with it. Rather than give him a chance to back off, she decides that it is best if they separate for a while. He is devastated but he loves her enough to let her go…for now. But has he made a mistake in letting her leave? Will it be the end of their marriage?

In All I Want for Christmas (Biggest Prize Ever), Ryan is a natural-born charmer and a top-rated, bad-ass bull rider. He has been in love with Krystal forever and always thought that when he was ready to settle down she would be there waiting for him. But his lover has finally given up on him, just when he is about to quit the rodeo. How can he convince her that she’s the only woman he’s ever wanted?

In A Special Gift for Her Cowboy, Joshua has let the stress of running his struggling ranch and his wife’s job to help out overpower the most important thing in his life: his marriage. They’ve become so independent and their love life almost non-existent. Can he prove to her that he will do anything to make things right again?

And be sure to leave a comment to be entered in her mini-blog tour contest. Stop over at all three blogs she's at today and leave a comment with your email address and you'll be entered to win a copy of the ebook Cowboys In Charge and a special Christmas gift. So after you leave a comment here, hop on over to these blogs and leave a comment to be in the running for the prizes!

Jessica Aspen http://jessicaaspen.com/

BVS Reader's Blog http://blackvelvetseductions.com/readers_blog/

The contest runs from 12-12-11 to 12-15-11 and the winner will be chosen randomly. Good luck!

BOOK INFO

Title: Cowboys in Charge

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Domestic Discipline

Length: 114 page anthology

Release Date: December 1, 2011

Publisher: Black Velvet Seductions

Amazon Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/Cowboys-in-Charge-ebook/dp/B006HCWU30/ref=sr_1_24?ie=UTF8&qid=1323090538&sr=8-24

All Romance Ebooks Buy Link: http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-cowboysincharge-648793-149.html

Publisher Buy Link: http://www.blackvelvetseductions.com/cowboys_in_charge.html

AUTHOR INFO

Web Site: Starla Kaye http://starlakaye.com/

Facebook: Starla Kaye https://www.facebook.com/StarlaKayeWriter

Twitter: Starla Kaye https://twitter.com/starla_kaye

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B002ZH8K3U

Romancing Christmas Giveaway Hop

2011-12-10T00:01:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the Romancing Christmas Giveaway Hop! As a erotic romance author, I love romance, so when Nat announced she was hosting a giveaway hop centered on romance for Christmas, I was all in. I read dozens of romances a year, and there are very few I don't enjoy in some way. I tend to be a paranormal romance girl myself, but it's not unusual to find me with an historical or contemporary. To me, there's nothing more enjoyable than the satisfying ending of a hero and heroine finally triumphing over obstacles to find love.

Since I know this time of year is about giving, and many readers are spending their romance book money on others, I thought I'd give two readers a chance to get some book bucks back. Here at my blog I'm giving away two Amazon giftcards each worth $10. The giveaway is open internationally, so if you have an email address, you can win.Just leave a comment with your email addy and you're in!

Good luck, and make sure you hop around to all the other fabulous blogs for a chance to win some great prizes. Happy holidays!

Blood Avenged Book Trailer

2011-12-09T08:18:00.000-05:00

After a great deal of wrangling with images and sound, the book trailer for Blood Avenged is finally complete. I have to give a big thanks to my son, Christiaan, whose original composition is the music for the trailer. A few months ago, I heard him fiddling around on the piano downstairs and asked him what he was playing. As he often does, he answered, "Nothing much. Just playin around."

I listened to him just play around for about two weeks before I decided what he was doing would be perfect for the book trailer for Blood Avenged since much of the book takes place in New Orleans. I'm very proud of him and am so thankful he was willing to play it over and over and over...and over again until we decided it was exactly what would work.

The music is sultry and seductive, just like the setting for the book and the main character, Vasilije. So without further ado, here is the book trailer for Blood Avenged, my newest paranormal romance due out next Wednesday, December 14.

The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy

2011-12-05T09:00:00.000-05:00

Another Monday is here, and we're one week closer to Christmas. I love the holidays, so this time of year is one of my favorites. This is my last week of work for the semester (big smile), but another reason I have to smile today is that the one volume book of The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy is up on Amazon. I just checked and there it was. :)

I put all three novellas--Vampire Dreams, Love's Master, and Masquerade--into one book because a number of readers had asked for it in print. That's coming later this month. But for now, the Trilogy is out in ebook and on sale for $3.99, which is a savings of $1.00 on the price of all three separately. In addition, as an added bonus, readers get the first chapter of Blood Avenged included. It's great for a holiday gift on that new ereader.

Blood Avenged and My New Project: the Sons of Navarus Series

2011-12-02T10:32:00.000-05:00

It's Friday, and I'm so looking forward to the weekend. Edits continue on Blood Avenged, and the book is on track for a December 14 release. The wonderful Talina Perkins is making me a banner that is going to be stunning (they always are), and the entire first chapter of the book is being included in the one volume book for The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy that's going on sale early next week. Looks to be another busy weekend. :)

On the day job front, next week is my last week of school until January, so I'm looking forward to another break. LOL The fall and winter breaks seem to be right on top of one another, but that's ok with me.

I plan to start writing the first book in the Sons of Navarus series that will begin at the end of Blood Avenged, so that will be terrific fun. I'm hoping to have at least the first book out in 2012, if not the second. The basic premise is that Vasilije isn't just an incredibly seductive and powerful vampire sire but also a member of an order of vampires that must protect their fellow vamps from the Archons, vampires who since ancient times have been chosen to act as the police and judges of the vampire world. Long ago, a prophecy said that the Archons would take over the vampire world, eliminating the most powerful of the vampires to ensure their power to rule is unchecked. The Sons of Navarus must act to end the takeover and protect their world. The first book is about Declan, one of the Sons and the brother of a vampire the Archons have already murdered. I have to admit I've already fallen in love with him as I've been sketching out his character. Unlike Vasilije, who's seductive and smooth, Declan is dark and brooding with a secretive past. I'm a sucker for brooding vampires. ;)

2011 has been a good year for me. I've released five books since June (to be honest, two of them were written, for the most part, in 2010) and the sixth will be released in just a little over a week. Sales have surpassed anything I could have imagined when I first put Vampire Dreams on Amazon that late May night, with almost 15,000 books sold since June 1. All I can say is thanks and I promise to keep them coming as I look forward to 2012 and this new series.

Unless 2012 means the end of the world. Then I'm not so pumped. LOL Here's to a wonderful weekend of holiday fun!

Author Talina Perkins Guest Post

2011-11-30T08:20:00.016-05:00

I'm thrilled to welcome Talina Perkins to my blog today. Her new cookbook, SweetPea Delights, is due out in early December, and it sounds delicious! So without further ado, here is Talina.

Gabrielle, thank you so much for having me over, I am so excited to be here today! You have such a warm and cozy den to spend some time in.

How many of you remember the first time you ever tried to cook a turkey? Did you get it perfect or did your efforts turn out less than the stellar feast you had planned when you set out on your adventure?

Well, I remember my first time and till this day I can’t look at a turkey without laughing. Seriously! Let me tell you a quick story of why I will never forget Christmas of ’93, the year of the exploding turkey.

It was five in the morning and I had a plan that would make my grandparents very proud to have a twelve year old granddaughter that could cook a turkey all alone. I eased from my bed and quietly disabled my grandmother’s alarm which was set to wake her at six. I had plenty of time to prepare the turkey before anyone was the wiser.

I ventured into the kitchen ready to create a masterpiece of a turkey. I collected all the ingredients from the cupboards including the six boxes of family sized stuffing and cooking wine that was often used in our home recipes.

In hindsight, I now realize my grandmother hadn’t intended to use all that stuffing for the turkey or wine. Anyway, back to the story.

I quickly set to work adding all the dry stuffing to the turkey then closing it up with cooking wire as I had seen done on TV. I moved on to bathing the over sized bird in not only half a bottle of wine but the entire bottle, all the way ‘till the very last drop. Yeah, I was a bit of an over achiever as a child.

Satisfied with my work I continued on in complete ignorant bliss. In to the oven went the bird and on to the couch I went to get some much deserved rest after such great work.

It was the piercing screech of horror followed by a very audible splat that woke me from my slumber and should have clued me in on what was to come. I quickly rushed to the kitchen to find the oven door swung open and stuffing blazing a trail across the kitchen, finally ending up on the opposite wall, splattered there as if had been intent on taking out someone. All the delicious wine dripped down my grandmother’s sunflower colored wallpaper. Offense number two, might I add.

I am having a hard time writing this through the tears of laughter even now.

There stood my grandmother shaking her head full of curlers and her famous wooden spoon in disgust. Not the exact response I had imagined upon her waking to find the turkey already cooking or should that be exploding.

Needless to say that day we had no turkey. While my excessive use of stuffing had reacted in an unexplainable explosive way with the wine, the bird had dried out within the five hours it had been cooking. Who knew I would be creating such a bomb! I narrowly escaped being grounded for life that day. As I am told, if it hadn’t been for my utterly stunned face that had made my sweet grandmother crack up it would have been doomsday for me instead of a not-so-much Turkey Day.

Fast forward to the present. When my ever so patient grandmother found out I currently have a cookbook set to release she couldn’t hold back from telling me the tale of the exploding turkey just one more time. She even asked me if I had prepped the intro with a how-to turkey bomb. Figuring not to many mothers would appreciate that, I nixed that idea and went with some recipes kids can really help with in the kitchen.

Below I have a couple of recipes to share with you from my SweetPea Delights: Easy Meal Ideas for Moms-On-the-Go that is out now in Kindle. I really hope you enjoy them!

Do you have any funny cooking stories to share? Come on don’t be shy! Let’s dish!

Creamy Chicken ‘N Rice Casserole
3/4 c. rice
2 cans cream of chicken soup
1 envelope dry Lipton Onion Soup Mix
2 c. water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Chicken pieces, about 2 lbs.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Mix rice, soups and water, leaving out the Lipton Onion Soup Mix. Pour into greased 13 x 9 pan. Place chicken pieces on top. Sprinkle with Lipton’s dry onion soup mix and cover with foil. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour or until the chicken is cooked through and rice is tender. Remove foil, sprinkle with cheddar cheese and return to oven until cheese is melted and lightly browned; about 10 minutes. This can be made the day before and refrigerated. Serves 4-6

Prep Time: 1 hr 10 min.

Sunshine Smoothie
My children love to make this right before movie time with a thick slice of pound cake and popcorn.

1 cup orange sherbet (or substitute frozen yogurt)
1 cup fresh strawberries, trimmed
1 1/3 cups pineapple chunks, fresh or canned in juice and drained
1 1/2 cups sparkling mineral water

Blend sherbet, strawberries and pineapple chunks in a food processor until smooth; add mineral water and blend until well mixed. Serves 4

Prep. Time: 10 min.

Buy link for Easy Meal Ideas For Moms On The Go:

Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Easy-Meal-Ideas-Moms--ebook/dp/B006FKZSVA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1322583378&sr=8-1

More About Talina:

Paranormal & Contemporary romance pre-pubbed author, A multi-Top Pick Reviewer for Night Owl Reviews and owner and author of Bookin' It Reviews. A place where you’ll find guest authors, giveaways, & video snippet readings of books she is currently reading or recommending. You’ll also get to hear her thoughts on authors' writing styles and plots. Stop by and discover a world just for readers at Bookin’ It Reviews! Talina Perkins is currently working on a shifter paranormal romance series while submitting to Harlequin Nocturne Cravings.

You can email her at talinaperkins@ymail.com any time or keep up with her going-on’s at the following links:

Twitter:@talinaperkins

Bookin' It Reviews
Follow me On Facebook!
Like My Author Fan Page on Facebook
Like My I Love Easy Recipes Facebook Fan Page
Book Swag Designs ~ Bookmarks, RTC, Cover Flats

Bon Appetite!

The State of American Education

2011-11-28T12:25:00.000-05:00

As some of you may know, I teach college history. I always teach an American history class, either to the Civil War or from the Civil War to present. I've done this since 1999, and I can tell you without equivocation that the students I'm seeing at the major university I teach at are less and less educated each year.

I gave an exam right before Thanksgiving and the majority of students failed. What was the subject of this exam? American history from the 1820s through the Mexican War in 1848. It contained questions on topics like manifest destiny, the Mexican War, and a map on the roads Americans took when they moved west. The question on manifest destiny should have been a giveaway, but the majority of the students got it wrong. Manifest destiny, for God's sake! How can a person who has graduated from an American high school not know what manifest destiny is? WTF? And the map? A total debacle. Thank God for GPS or they'd be perpetually lost. (Actually, things like GPS are part of the reason why students today are so intellectually backward. They don't have to think. Machines do it for them.)

However, two things stuck out on the exams. One was that more than a handful of my students wrote messages to me either explaining why they did poorly or wishing me a happy Thanksgiving. This is juvenile, but it's begun to happen more and more in my college classes. I can tell you that when I was in college, none of the people I knew would ever have done anything so childlike. I even had one student draw me a hand-traced turkey and ask if he could have extra credit for this. (Maybe if you were in 1st grade...)

But the other item, the one that made me shake my head and ask WTF? was this answer about the failure of the Mexicans to defeat the Americans in the Mexican War:

Mexican leader had under estimated the Amexican's they were Full of Dem self's and didn't plan stastic befure going to war.

Forget about the run on sentence for now. That's an epidemic in this country, and particularly in bloggerland, although the run on that shows up online is usually the comma splice. No, let's go with the bigger problems. This person doesn't know underestimated is a single word. They don't know we're called Americans. They have invented a new word (I have no idea what stastic means here.) They can't spell (before has no u). They have no idea what the job of an apostrophe is (another epidemic that is also found online). They are infected with the random capitalization disease that many students have. But worst of all is the fact that they think Dem self is the way to say themselves. That's pathetic.

Long gone are the days when someone saying they graduated from college meant something. That ceased to mean a thing over a decade ago. Now it simply means they paid their money. The student who wrote that answer won't be passing my class, but I can bet you sound money he will be passing other classes and move right on to graduation. He did in high school, and they were pleased to give him a diploma. I'm sad to report my university may just do the same thing.

Education in this country is a tragic mess. It would have been more useful if this student and many more had skipped high school and gone to work. At least there would be a chance they would have learned something.

Monday News

2011-11-28T08:47:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving holiday. I spent the week tiling my bathroom. Don't authors live exciting lives? But I did do some other things, such as get together with friends. I also finalized the print versions of both Destiny Redeemed and The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy one volume book. That reminds me. The one volume ebook of The Victorian Erotic Romance Trilogy is almost ready for uploading to the major outlets. In it, readers will find all three novellas of the Trilogy and the first chapter of Blood Avenged, which is due out on December 14. This is the cover for the one volume book.

All I have to do is finalize the first chapter of Blood Avenged and it will be all ready to go.

And Blood Avenged is in final edits as I write and will be ready to go for December 14. It's quite a bit hotter than my other books...well, other than Vampire Dreams. Vasilije and vampires just lend themselves to sexy stories.

Finally, almost all the books in the series that will begin from Blood Avenged have been plotted out. I'm chomping at the bit to get started, so once I'm done with the semester in the first week of December, I'll begin the first book, the currently untitled book about Declan (click on his name for a reminder of what he looks like). Mmmm....I'll begin giving readers a taste of his character and story in early 2012.

And last, but not least, I have winners from the Black Friday Book Bonanza Giveaway. The first prize winner is: TinaBuriedUnderBooks and the second prize winner is: Kathryn Merkel. The winners will be contacted some time later today. Thank you to everyone who came by and entered, and look for more giveaways in the near future!

Have a great Monday!

Author Ruth Casie Interview

2011-11-27T08:03:00.007-05:00

Hello, everyone. Let me welcome Ruth Casie to my blog today. Her new book, Knight of Runes, is getting great reviews, so let's hear what she has to say about her book and her writing. And don't miss out on the giveaway at the end of the interview. Take it away, Ruth!

1. Who are you and what do you write?

I’m Ruth A. Casie a seasoned professional with over twenty-five years of writing experience but not necessarily in writing romances. No, I’ve been writing communication and marketing documents for a large corporation. Over the past two years, encouraged by my friends and family, I gave way to my inner muse, let my creative juices flow, and began writing a series of historical time travel romance novels.

2. What’s your favorite place in the world to visit?

There are several places I truly enjoying visiting. I’ve enjoyed England ever since my first visit. I love the country side, castles, and cities. I’m steeped in history and my characters feel at home.

My favorite state-side place to visit is the Maine coast. I’m invigorated by the power of the ocean, and the rugged rock coast. There’s a bench under a big shade tree right at the water’s edge on Pemaquid Point – I could sit there all day.

3. Where do you write?

With our children grown and on their own I’ve conveniently taken over one of their rooms and turned it into a library. I’m surrounded by my resource materials and to-be-read piles. It’s a quiet cozy room that’s comfortable and all mine.

4. How long have you been published or is this your first sale?

Knight of Runes is my first book. I hope the first of many.

5. How long have you been writing?

I’ve been writing for over twenty-five years, but not romance. However, for years I’ve had people and voices racing around in my head. Sometimes, after I’ve read the last page of a book, I find it hard to put the book down. I want more. If there isn’t a sequel, I’d think one up. I don’t know when it began, maybe in high school or was it that creative writing class in college, I started to create characters and stories of my own, all still in my head mind you. The story played out in my ‘down time’ or when I relaxed at the end of the day. I kept my private world a secret from everyone.

Fast forward to 2009, my friend told me she was writing a romance novel. Dare I tell her my secret? Imaginary friends at my age! Would she think I was crazy? Would she think I was like James Thurber’s Walter Mitty with a romantic twist, spinning romantic daydreams? When I finally got up the nerve to tell her my big secret she burst with excitement. She was a daydreamer too. As I met other writers I found I was not so unique. Many have their muses (ah, so that’s what the voices are) sitting by their shoulder or at their keyboard when they write.

6. What comes first—characters or the plot?

I start with a basic story idea and then develop my characters. I consider myself a plotzer. I write out their goals, motivations and conflicts. I do a rough outline of the story to make certain I know where key points should go, more of a direction rather than a hard and fast roadmap. Sometimes the side trips I take are really worth it and my characters actually amaze me with how they develop the story. Then there are other times when they tell me there isn’t any way they would say or do what I’ve written. They can be like unruly children.

7. Who’s your favorite hero?

I must be a mercurial person. My favorite hero is the one I’m reading about at the time. But they all have something in common. They are all men who must surmount their own fears in order to help/save someone or something that they feel is more important than they are.

8. Who’s on your auto-buy list for authors?

I have a diversified list: Elizabeth Peters – she writes Egyptian adventure stories centered on Lady Amelia Peabody. Clive Cussler – he writes adventure stories centered on Dirk Pit. Diana Gabaldon – I love Clare and Jamie, besides, it’s a time travel. Jude Deveraux – anything historic. Eliza Knight – she writes historicals too. I also LOVE Tasha Alexander. She write Regency mysteries.

9. Time travel? What attracted you to writing a story with time travel elements?

The challenges of different attitudes across the centuries intrigued me. What skills would my heroine need? How would she interact with people? Would she be accepted? How would she deal with leadership? What skills would she need to acquire. Arik has his challenges in dealing with a woman who has very different attitudes about her place in his society. How would he deal with her? Working on these issues and bringing them out in a realistic way was both challenging and gratifying.

10. Do you write to music? Do you make soundtracks for you stories? If so, what was on the soundtrack for your latest release?

I’m less likely to write with music playing but I do use it to see something through my character’s eyes. I made a playlist of my heroine’s favorite songs. It’s as eclectic as she is and includes Santana, Eric Clapton, Andrea Bocelli, Linkin Park, Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake to name a few.

11. What’s your biggest dream?

My biggest author dream is to be a best-selling author and keynote speaker at the RWA conference. If I thought romance had a chance at the Pulitzers, I would dream that too!

12. If you were a millionaire would you still write?

Yes, I love the creative process. For me, writing is painting with words. Being a millionaire would just give me more time to so it.

About Knight of Runes

It’s the 21st century and time travel is still a Wellsian fantasy but not for Rebeka Tyler. While on an impromptu tour of Avebury, she takes a misstep at the standing stones, and finds herself in the same place but tossed back into the 17th century. When Lord Arik, a druid knight, finds Rebeka wandering his lands without protection, he swears to keep her safe. But Rebeka can take care of herself. When Arik sees her clash with a group of attackers using a strange fighting style he is intrigued.

Rebeka is desparate to return to her time. She poses as a scholar sent by the king to help find out what’s killing Arik’s land to get access to the library. But as she decodes the ancient runes that are the key to solving his mystery and sending her home, she finds herself drawn to the charismatic and powerful Arik.

As Arik and Rebeka fall in love, someone in Arik’s household schemes to keep them apart and a dark druid with a grudge prepares his revenge. To defeat him, Arik and Rebeka must combine their skills. Soon Rebeka will have to decide whether to return to the future or trust Arik with the secret of her time travel and her heart.

Win a free copy of Knight of Runes

Win a free copy of Knight of Runes (epub or pdf format) by leaving a comment with your email address on Ruth’s blog at www.RuthACasie.blogspot.com One person will be randomly selected on December 1.

Author Bio

Ruth A. Casie was born in Brooklyn, New York. For twenty-five years she’s been writing for corporate America. Encouraged by her family and friends this ballroom dancing, Sudoku playing, aspiring gourmet cook has given way to her inner muse. She’s let her creative juices flow and started writing a series of historical time travel romance stories. She hopes her stories become your favorite adventures.

To learn more about Ruth and her writing and browse her list of “extras” for readers and writers, visit her at her web site www.RuthACasie.com You can also follow her on her blog at http://www.RuthACasie.blogspot.com

Black Friday Book Bonanza Giveaway Hop

2011-11-25T00:01:00.005-05:00

Welcome to the Black Friday Book Bonanza Giveaway Hop sponsored by the wonderful bloggers at Book Savvy Babe, The Bawdy Book Blog, and Alive On The Shelves! Thanks Heather, Jenn, and Lisa for putting this all together. For those of you readers who've been out in the madness shopping, I hope you found what you were looking for and got a sweet deal on it.

So here's the lowdown on the giveaway here at my blog. First, it's open internationally, so as long as you have an email, you're good to go. There will be two winners. First prize will win any two of my books. The winner will be able to choose whichever two ebooks they'd like. Second prize will win one of my books, again the winner's choice of the ebook they like best.(For blurbs and excerpts for each book, click on the links in the left sidebar.)

Here's how to enter: The only mandatory entry is you must follow my blog and leave a comment with your email and the total number of any extra entries. For extra entries, you can do the following:

For 1 extra entry, you can follow me on Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/gabriellebisset

For 2 extra entries, you can join me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002481284652

For 3 extra entries, you can subscribe to my newsletter (Look for the pink box to the left)

Easy peasy. Please be a wonderful person and add up the entries in your comment below. And be sure to leave your email address so I can contact you when you win. :)

Enjoy your weekend and blog hopping! There are great prizes to be had at all 70+ blogs participating.

Author Jennifer Labelle Guest Post

2011-11-23T08:03:00.019-05:00

I'm happy to welcome to my blog today author Jennifer Labelle. She's here to talk about something everyone wishes they had at least once in their life--a second chance. Make sure to read the excerpt from her new book Second Chance Love at the end of the post too!

Second Chances,

Do over’s, we’ve all wished for them, right? The one moment to get a second chance to make whatever it is right, well today I’m going to talk about the “if only’s” we all seek time and again in light of one of my new releases Second Chance Love.

Blurb:

Goody, goody Teegan Hallowell was tired of being teased for following the rules. So, when her brother’s sexy friend shows an interest, she rebels, and learns all about the good kind of bad.

Now ten years later, Teegan returns home to escape a horrible mistake, but wonders if she’s made an even bigger one by returning. There was a reason she left Digby, when her dreams shattered and the man she loved betrayed her. So when she realizes she’s still in love with him, matters become complicated when he reveals her reason for leaving him was all in vain.

Liam Bates has every intention of loving Teegan again, but she’s had it rough and he needs to rebuild her trust. The spark is still there, and as they explore what once was, their love is tested when Teegan disappears, and Liam will stop at nothing until he finds her again.

This story came to me from a conversation I had with my sister. Our mother passed away when we were very young and we were reminiscing in memories in this particular conversation.

You see my mother’s main flaw seemed to be her taste in men. From my “Father” the sperm donor to the other man who ended it all for her and it got me thinking about my perfect guy, about the type of guy I wished she or anyone else deserved to have including myself.

It was then Liam was born. I guess you can say he’s one of the many heroes of my imagination. I actually took a lot of my husband’s character traits when he was created so I guess bad taste in men isn’t necessarily a hereditary trait and I lucked out. Anyway, I guess what I’m trying to say is that he was one of my many “if only’s.” The man my father should have been, the man she could have had, the man I’d like to think any woman would want, and now I’m sharing him with all of you.

So I truly hope you enjoy this amazing love story about one woman torn, one man ready to pick up the pieces and prove his love, and a second chance given to make it all right.

Is it possible to find the love of your life when you’re eighteen?

In Second Chance Love, Teegan Hallowell is about to find out.

Now available in both e-book and print, I hope you’ll get your copy today!

BUY LINK: http://store.secretcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=book_info&cPath=4&products_id=115

I’d like to thank everyone for stopping by to read this post while I guest blog on this site. If you’d like to learn more about me or my work I can be reached through my website: http://www.jenniferlabelle.com , I’m on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Jennifer-Labelle/168414043184292#!/

I’m on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/1JenniferLabell , you can follow my blog: http://labellebooks.blogspot.com , and I’m also on Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4649930.Jennifer_Labelle

Excerpt:

Jagged rocks aligned across the coastline. The moist salty air was refreshing, and the tide slowly rose against the Fundy Shore. It was good to be home again. Teegan sat on the fallen tree trunk, and tried to capture the beauty of the scenery with her sketch pad.

She hadn’t been there in years and the beauty of it still captivated her. This secluded patch of beach once belonged to Liam’s family and she wondered if it still did. Seeing Liam again brought so much back to her, that she just needed a place to unwind, and some of her most precious memories belonged right where she was.

Smiling, she turned up her iPod and sang along to the lyrics of Shinedown’s Breaking Inside, relating to the lyrics. Subconsciously, she ended up adding a boy and his father fishing right where she sat into the picture. Liam! Why can’t I seem to let you go? Sighing, she almost fell off the log and into the water. Her heart raced, and adrenaline pumped as she wondered who in the Lord’s name snuck up on her like that.

Large arms wrapped around her, pulling her close as his heat enveloped her senses. He was the one man in the entire world who could make her weak in the knees by just being in close proximity to her. The one man she was trying to avoid. Too afraid of her emotions. Oh Lord, he smells so good. Get it together, Teeg. You don’t even know him anymore.

“Liam?” She sounded breathless and winced turning away. She could not let him see how he affected her, could not risk losing her heart again. It hurt too much.

“Hasn’t anyone ever told you not to sneak up on someone like that? Geez, you just about gave me a heart attack not to mention an unwanted swim.” Placing a hand to her heart she turned to face him again only to have the urge to smother his smile with her lips. He was beautiful, and she missed the taste of him.

“It’s good to see you too.” He chuckled, “And there is no way I would have let you fall in. Hasn’t anyone ever told you that this is private property?”

She could tell by the glint in his eye he was only teasing, and she hated how easily he could make her smile. As if, she was eighteen all over again. “Ya, but you see, I used to know one of the owners of said property very well. I have many fond memories here, and I just had to see if it was as remarkable as I remembered it.”

“Well is it?” His face turned serious as he closed the distance between them.

With his closeness distracting her she whispered, “Is it what?”

Before she knew it his head was lowering and her breathing turned rapid. Be careful what you wish for. She could feel his breath against her and all she could think about was the taste of his lips on hers. Soft, plump, and delectable...

Best wishes,

~Author Jennifer Labelle~

http://www.jenniferlabelle.com

Monday Musings and Destiny Redeemed's Tour Continues

2011-11-21T12:07:00.000-05:00

It's Monday again, and since True Blood is on hiatus, there are no hot guys from my television watching to plaster pics of on Mondays. Grrr...they need to get moving on getting the hot men from True Blood back on my tv pronto!

I'm over at the fabulous Talina Perkins' Bookin' It Reviews today on Destiny Redeemed's tour celebrating Thea's birthday. Since Amon usually gets all the attention because much of the story is about him, I thought today I'd give Thea the chance for center stage, so she's over at Talina's with me doing an interview today. Check it out for some scoop on Thea's past.

And speaking of celebrating, to say thanks to the fabulous readers who love romance, Destiny Redeemed is on sale for just $.99 until November 30! Readers can get it at this fantastic price at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, All Romance eBooks, and Smashwords. Don't miss it!

But I do have something yummy for your eyes this Monday, after all. A search online for some visual inspiration for the hero in my next book led me to this delicious creature. You can trust me that every word I write in this new book will be tinged with the thought of this stunning man:

Everybody, this is James, but for me from now on, he's a vampire named Declan. Thanks to Socialite Life for the yummy beginning to the week.

Hope everyone has a great Monday!

Author Sara Trimble Guest Post

2011-11-21T08:30:00.000-05:00

Welcome to author Sara Trimble today. She's here to talk about how she keeps the ideas flowing and gives readers an excerpt of her new book, Heart Over Mind.

How to Break Through The Barrier

I interview a lot of authors through my column for Night Owl Reviews magazine. I always ask the same question for each person. How do you deal with writer's block. So far, they've all given the same answer. They never have this problem. So I sit there and scratch my head and wonder, 'Am I such a bad writer that only I suffer through such a brain freeze?' Then there's Facebook. Since I'm particpating in NaNoWriMo, I belong to two groups on there. As I read through the posts, I realize, 'Ha, I'm not crazy. Other people expereince the disease too.' Okay, so now what?

Knowing I'm not alone doesn't really help make me feel better. That doesn't get the words to flowing again so I can get my work done. It really makes me feel bad when I see authors that say they finish a book in one month. I wonder, 'How is that even possible!' Granted, I am still new to the writing world and I've only written five books to date, each of those with the exception of one took at least a year a piece! I shake my head in wonder. I tell myself I will be like those writers. I will do a full novel in just a month. If other people can do it, I know it's possible. I just have to be dedicated.

Well, to me, writing is one of the best things in the world. Besides being a mom, wife, and good friend, being a writer is my favorite thing. Yet, I can't find the time to write everyday as I'd like. There just ins't enough time in the day. I have three children, twenty-four seven. I have a household to maintain, a sixteen month to chase around, two children to drop off and pick up from school, food to make, dishes and clothes to do, animals to care for. Then there's the marketing and promoting I have to do for my self-published novel Heart Over Mind. It's amazing that I find time to sleep, let alone write.

When I am ready to set down and get to work, I find my mind blank. It's so busy trying to come up with a new story to work on, or ways to change stories I've already finished that it doens't want to focus on my current WIP. I bet you're all saying, 'You wait until later, don't you?' If so, then you're wrong. I force myself to write. My Muse rebels against the orders but after a few minutes of writing nonsense, it gives up the reins and allows the words to come free.

If I struggle for longer than ten minutes with getting the story down, I switch to something else, like a blog post or an email. Any sort of writing seems to make the Muse happy and I'm back to my novel in no time. Now, so far, I haven't managed to get a novel down in one month but my fingers are crossed. I doubt I'll win NaNo this year, but anything's possible. So everyone, wish me luck.

Have you ever heard of or experienced writer's block? What tips have you heard or done to survive with your insanity intact?

Excerpt from Heart Over Mind:

Nala nodded and began to chew on her lip as she scanned the median on both sides. Everything seemed still and quiet, like the world was holding its' breath in anticipation. Tall oak and maple trees bracketed both sides of the road, joining in the middle to form a canopy that blocked out most of the sunlight. The bright green leaves swayed, causing eerie shadows to dance along the pavement. Gabriel steered through the hills and curves, handling the large vehicle with expert ease. At the top of a rather steep hill, Nala noticed something amiss a few hundred feet ahead of them.

“Gabriel, look in the middle of the road.”

He did not need her outstretched finger to direct him. It would be near impossible not to see the nine, abnormally large deer standing directly in their path. Four of the animals had large antlers with spreads of at least six feet. As they drew closer, Gabriel tapped the brakes to keep from skidding. Nothing happened. Gabriel applied more pressure and then cursed when the Tahoe did not respond. He could not swerve off the side of the road. Hitting one of the wide tree trunks would be more dangerous than crashing into the animals.

“Nala, brace yourself. We're going to wreck.”

Sobbing a little, Nala reached out with her right hand and held onto the door handle. Her left hand curled around the armrest attached to her chair. Planting her feet firmly against the floorboard, she pushed her body as far back into the seat as she could get. Then, she clamped her eyes shut and waited. Gabriel gripped the wheel praying that the animals would move. He tried to think of a magickal spell to get them out of this but nothing came to mind. He heard Nala's sob and expected to see her panicking. Instead, she sat in her seat, quiet and braced for impact. He might not like how irresistible she was, but he did admire her courage. Damn it. We’re ten feet away. They have to move.

Just as they were about to careen into the horde, the foul smell of evil magick permeated the closed windows. Gabriel did not have time to analyze why the odor was present. By the Spirits, please let us make it out of this. As the SUV plowed into the animals, they dematerialized into a puff of mist. Gabriel tested the brakes. As his foot pressed the pedal, they began to slow down. Relieved, he held it down until they were at a stop. Then he looked over at Nala, still clenching her chair and door. Reaching out, he gently stroked her hand and pried it from the armrest.

“Nala, it's okay. We're fine.”

Scared to believe him, she cracked one eye open. Sighing, she looked around in confusion. “Where did they go?”

“I don't know. They just turned into smoke. I think it was an illusion. Something to frighten us.”

Sara Trimble is new to the world of publishing, though not to writing. She has one published novel, two in the final revisions and a stack of stories ready to work on. She's also venturing out of her comfort zone of Romance to work on a new suspense novel, she hopes to have done by December 1st. When she isn’t writing, Sara spends her time with her three children, wonderful fiance Justyn, spending time with friends, and just enjoying life. You can find her at her website http://www.sararimble.com, follow her blog at http://saratrimble.wordpress.com, Tweet her at http://www.facebook.com/saradtrimble, or Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/authorsaratrimble. She loves to hear from her readers so send her an email at saratrimble@saratrimble.com. If anyone is participating in NaNo, feel free to buddy her at youngmomx3. Don't forget to check out the new movie trailer for her debut paranormal romance, Heart Over Mind. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ws0EXm5tsI8

Thursday Thoughts: The Start Of A New Series

2011-11-17T10:05:00.000-05:00

The Destiny Redeemed book tour continues today at Urban Girl Reader with an excerpt and promo. Thanks to Sherri for joining the tour! Her blog is beautiful. :)

Blood Avenged is off to the betas and editor to get it ready for its December 14 release date, and I'd planned to take the month of December off from writing because I've been going nonstop literally since January. This year has seen Destiny Redeemed, Vampire Dreams, Love's Master, Masquerade, and Blood Avenged completed. Whew! That's 214,000 words from me this year, and that's not counting all those posts, guest posts, and interviews. (Those add up, trust me.) So the idea was to take off December to give myself a little break.

There's only one problem with that...

I've got an idea for a new series that's just dying to get out. Vasilije's story in Blood Avenged ended differently than I'd planned (quite a surprise for a plotter like me, I assure you), and it's looking like there's a new series there. I began fleshing it out already, and I've decided on some character names and some traits. I won't give too much away yet since it's all very early, but yes, the series is paranormal romance and it's beginning with Blood Avenged. Plans are pretty fluid now, but I'm hoping to get the first and possibly the second books out in 2012. They'll be novel length, set in the present, and feature powerful sires like Vasilije.

Look for more coming soon. For now I'm off to wrangle Amon for an interview with Nat from Reading Romances. ;)

A Cover Contest, Nil, and Platform 9 3/4

2011-11-16T09:05:00.000-05:00

How's everyone doing today? I'm feeling good, even though I have to go into work early. :( Destiny Redeemed's book tour continues today at Getting Naught Between The Stacks . I'm over there talking about Nil (that's where the Platform 9 3/4 figures in--check out the post to see what I mean) and the Aeveren way of life. Thanks to Nanny for being on the tour!

Also, Destiny Redeemed is a nominee in the November 2011 Book Cover Award over at Alternative-Read.com, so if you feel so inclined, I'd love it if you'd click over there and give it your vote.

I'm off to get ready for work, but I hope everyone has a great day! The tour is steady for the next few days, so I'll be here to shout out about it. :)

Author C.R. Moss Guest Post

2011-11-15T08:20:00.005-05:00

‘Tis the Season with C.R. Moss

     Hi all! I’m happy to be a guest blogger here today and talking about one of my favorite times of year.
     The air has grown crisp and cool, though here in Las Vegas it’s usually still warm enough that I can get away with wearing shorts for a little while longer. Certain trees are covered in glorious color. There are sections in some developments that are just beautiful to drive through. The stars and planets seem brighter in the night sky, while the harvest moon shines in brilliant orange. I remember how growing up in the Northeast there were the smells of apple cider, burning wood and leaves permeating the air, and calls of referees at football games could be heard in the distance. It’s beautiful here in Las Vegas during this time of year, too. The A/C can be turned off, the windows opened, the house aired out. Some people run their fireplaces so there’s still the scent of burning wood that reminds me of youth. And, I especially appreciate October and November’s lower temps because I can cool down from the heat of the summer.
     There’s a sense of magic surrounding this time of year as the nights grow longer. Could it be because we’re nearing the holiday season, and people are getting in a joyous mood, excited about vacations, family gatherings and gifts? Or is it because the veil between the corporeal and spirit worlds really did thin, and the ancient Gods, Goddesses, fae and other mystical, haunting creatures came closer to our realm?
Either way, this paranormal/horror/suspense/thriller & contemporary erotic romance writer loves autumn season – the sights, the smells, the cool after summer’s horrid heat and all the fun horror movies and ghost stories that abound on television and in the theaters. Plus Thanksgiving and the gift giving season is right around the corner. I love Samhain (pronounced "sow-en" & did you know it refers to the daylight portion of the holiday), though. It’s the Wiccan New Year (November 1st), my time for meditation and reflection. It’s a time to wrap up the old and prepare for the new in one’s life. It’s also a time to honor those who have passed. And this WNY has created a lot of changes that brought new energy into my life, reinvigorated projects, and I’m thrilled to remove myself from old, negative stuff that wasn’t serving my higher purpose and move on into a bright future. Keep an eye on my blog and website for the exciting stuff that will be happening!
     Going back to Samhain… Did you also know that Samhain was a precursor to Halloween, and that the traditions and rituals of this particular holiday were actually preserved in the western world by Christianity? As Christianity spread, it adopted the pagan folkways, rather than stamping them out, since it was a great way to convert the pagans to the new religion. The church moved All Saint’s Day (Hallows Day) from May 13 (Lemuria – a Roman holiday where celebrants placated the dead) to November 1 to take the focus off of Samhain. The church also made November 2 All Souls Day. So the night before All Hallows Day became known as All Hallows Evening and was eventually shortened to Halloween. Another aspect to the holiday and dark time of year… Death seems to make this holiday tick along with the belief in things that go bump in the night, witches, demons and the like. People used to be scared of the dark, the unknown, of things they didn’t understand. In this day and age, we’ve beat back the night with lights and now understand the human condition & our world and universe with science. Yet, people still like to be scared. Why? Because we like the chemical response our bodies go through and how it makes us feel. For a brief moment in time, we respond like our like ancestors did when they had to hunt for their own food and defend their lives. It boils down to the fight or flight response. We have to create ways now to feel that charge of adrenaline in response to such a stimulant. So we watch scary movies, go out and take risks…read thrillers. The last which is good for me since I like to read a scary story now and then, and I especially like to write them, too! And, more will be coming from me on the horror/suspense/thriller front so stay tuned!

Happy Reading!
C.R. Moss / Casey Moss

Follow C.R.:

Website: www.crmoss.net / www.caseymossbooks.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/crmoss
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/crmoss
Blog: http://crmoss.blogspot.com/
Come see me and other fabulous authors ~ 2 June 2012 - Arizona's 2nd Annual Romance Reader Event! http://arizonadreamin.wordpress.com/

Author Suzanne Rock Guest Post

2011-11-14T08:00:00.001-05:00

The Top Five Reasons Why You Should Buy Unholy Pursuits

Thank you so much Gabrielle for having me here today and giving me an opportunity to talk about my latest release, Unholy Pursuits. This is a story near and dear to my heart, and it was hard to end the story. So hard, that I’m now working on the sequel. J

I think that you’ll love this book, too. Here’s why. ;)

1) Aren't you curious to learn what an Iatros is?

For this book I created an entirely new type of paranormal creature. Want to know what special abilities it has or what it looks like? Then you'll have to read the book to find out. (I'm bad, aren't I? ;) )

2) Tortured alpha males

In Unholy Pursuits, a team of FBI agents go into hell to retrieve a relic that is believed to save humanity from the demons who want to destroy it. What they don't know is that it is a trap, and the dark magic that is released on them leaves them changed forever. Sound familiar? It should. These tortured alphas are similar to the heroes in Gena Showalter's Lord's of the Underworld series. My books are based on teh pandora's box mythology, however. I've created a new type of mythology, one that requires my characters to have a lot of sex. ;)

3) We all like a good capture/bondage fantasy.

In my story, my tortured alpha, Darien, captures Arianne and ties her up in order to extract information.The darkness inside of him has other plans, however, and soon his interrogation take on a more lusty turn.

4) The start of a whole new epic adventure

Unholy Pursuits is the first book in a planned paranormal series. A whole team of FBI agents went down into hell. They went through a lot down there and I hope to give each of them their own happy ending. :)

5) Did I mention the hot sex?

Unholy Pursuits not only has unique and intricate world building, but it also has scorching sex scenes. To read one, go here (http://suzannerock.com/?page_id=863). This is an erotic ROMANCE however, which means that there is a lot of passion and romance mixed in. Tension, emotion and heat with heart. Who could ask for anything more? ;)

So there you have it, my reasons why I think you’ll love Unholy Pursuits. Still not convinced? Well, here’s a short excerpt to whet your appetite. ;) In the comments, I’d love to hear about YOUR favorite book, and your reasons why it’s on your keeper shelf.

Enjoy! J

***

Unholy Pursuits

Buy from publisher: http://www.jasminejade.com/p-9638-unholy-pursuits.aspx

Buy from Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005VQSFE6/ref=as_li_tf_til?tag=suzrocaut-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=B005VQSFE6&adid=13PE28YKYMF5HX8ZDMZJ&&ref-refURL=http%3A%2F%2Fsuzannerock.com%2F%3Fpage_id%3D863

Buy from All Romance Ebooks: http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-unholypursuits-615627-144.html

Buy from Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/unholy-pursuits-suzanne-rock/1106674434?ean=9781419936746&itm=1&usri=suzanne%2brock

Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0tVxVJmTuc

Blurb:

Darien let his guard down once, and Arianne stole the demon stone from under his nose. Now he has to get it back, no matter what the cost. It doesn’t matter that the feisty redhead calms the voices in his head, or that her body tempts him beyond reason. Only the stone will ensure his survival. He decides to appeal to her feminine side and use gentle seduction to get it back. As he begins, something inside him changes, and the voices in his head compel him to use pain to heighten desire.

As Darien’s touch turns dark, Arianne’s lust escalates, and a connection forms between them. Yet despite her need, she can’t let the sexy FBI agent have what he wants. If placed in the wrong hands, the stone would release an unholy force intent on destroying everything she loves—including him.

Excerpt:

“Don’t worry, I’ll take care of everything.” Arianne ran her fingers over Darien’s chest. “Don’t think or over-analyze, just feel.” She bent down over his body. Her warm breath fanned out over his skin and her clean, floral scent filled his nose. He relaxed his muscles as her tongue and lips danced over his skin. She started at his collarbone and worked her way down, setting his chest on fire wherever she touched.

Then she flicked her tongue over his nipple. Darien sucked in his breath as pleasure tingled over his body and numbed his mind. Ari, his sweet Ari. There was no one like her. She could be both strong and gentle, both kind and hard. Her tongue felt like the finest silk against his skin. Nothing ever felt better.

She did it again, this time drawing lazy circles around his nipple before giving the tip a final flick. Pleasure rose up from a deep, dark place inside of him, threatening to burst out from his core.

He arched his back, pressing his hard, swollen cock closer to her wet heat. He could hear her breathing quicken, smell the scent of her arousal. Desire surged through his veins. He wanted to bury himself inside of her, to feel her muscles contract around his shaft. He moistened his lips and rolled his hips, moving himself up, back and forth through her slick folds.

“Mount me,” he ordered. “I want to feel inside of you.”

“Not yet.”

“Why?”

“Because I’m not done with you yet.”

“Are you sure?” He hooked his feet into the mattress and arched his hips up off the bed, taking her with him. Fuck, she felt so wet and hot. He needed to feel more, to have her inner walls grip his shaft as she shivered with ecstasy. He wanted to bury himself deep inside her and blank his mind in pleasure. If only he could remove those damn handcuffs.

Arianne groaned and slid her tongue once more over his sensitive nipple. He gasped and fell back onto the bed, his mission forgotten in a haze of pleasure. She then took his taut tip in her mouth, rolling the hard nub between her lips. The pressure felt fantastic and tingles of pleasure sparked out over his skin.

He groaned and wiggled beneath her, eager for more. She continued to lave and tease, creating a swirl of sensations running through his body. First she’d move in circles, coming close but never quite reaching his tip. Around and around she’d go, creating a madness inside him.

“Please.” He arched his back, pressing his sensitive nipple toward her mouth. She nipped it, creating a flash of pain that made his inner darkness hum with approval. He moistened his lips as his body heated and the air became charged with sexual energy.

She moved to the other nipple and continued the same, sweet torture. The circles were maddening. He both loved and hated the attention. He moved his hips beneath her as she worked, and was satisfied when she had to stop and groan her pleasure. She slid her wet pussy over his shaft, creating an urgency deep inside his core. He tightened his muscles and focused his mind on one single thought.

Mine.

He had to take her, had to consume her. Darien wanted to drag her body down next to his and join them in a fast and furious coupling. Yet she continued to circle his nipple with slow, steady movements, making him dizzy with anticipation. With each rotation she inched closer and closer and yet refused to place her tongue where he needed it.

The blindfold had slipped and he could peek out around the edges. Darien raised his head from the mattress and watched her. He could only see the top of her head and he watched it move from side to side as she first nipped, then licked his chest.

“Please,” he said again, his voice a mere whimper of emotion.

She chuckled and bit his sensitive tip, sending a blast of pain through his body. He bucked beneath her as his mind numbed and focused on the pain. His inner darkness sighed with satisfaction.

Then she moved back to his other nipple.

He closed his eyes and groaned, focusing on the sensations she was creating inside of him rather than his eyesight. Her hair felt so soft and smooth against his skin. He wanted to touch it, to let the strands flow through his fingers. He contented himself on the sliding of those silken strands over his chest, the feel of her tongue against her nipple. She was so focused on his pleasure, his comfort. The knowledge increased his desire and made him hot all over.

Mine. The voice in Darien’s head was captivated by her. It wanted to give her pain and pleasure, it wanted her to give those things to him. Only in her presence could Darien managed to keep the voice under control. There was significance in that, but at the moment, all rational thought seemed to be slipping from his mind.

He continued moving his hips back and forth until his shaft slipped deeper in between her folds. He groaned as her heat surrounded him and her wetness spread over his cock. He moistened his lips as she continued to tease and stroke his nipple. This woman was going to cause him to come apart at the seams.

Around and around her tongue moved in teasing motions, with each flick, each rotation, his inner darkness growled and his desire rose. In all of the times he had sex, he was the aggressor, but with Arianne… He loved the fact that she liked to switch roles, be both dominant and submissive, depending on the situation and need. Life with someone like her would never be dull, that was for sure.

With the blindfold on, his sensations heightened and the feel of her hot, wet tongue on him was magnified ten-fold. Every nerve ending tingled and a deep, dark need rumbled in his core. She felt good, so damn good, but he needed more. He wanted to give her pleasure, wanted to make her lose herself in pleasure.

His mind drifted back to the tree and how he had buried himself deep inside her core. She had been so tight, so wet. Never before had he felt anything so wonderful. It was as if he was finally arriving home after a long journey.

The next time she raked her teeth over his sensitive tip, she bit harder than before. Pain stabbed his chest, and the darkness within him purred with pleasure.

“Mother Earth—that feels incredible,” he said after he recovered.

“Good, because there’s more where that came from.” She did it again to the other side. She circled his nipple, the sweet torture making him come apart. Then pain lanced through his body and beat his deamhan into submission. He cried out with both pain and surprise, as she had bit harder than before. His inner darkness sighed with happiness, allowing him to relax deeper and to focus fully on her.

Then she ran her velvet tongue over the bite, soothing away his pain and increasing his need. Soon his mind blanked to everything but how her delectable mouth teased and her hot, wet pussy slid along his shaft. He groaned as his body bathed in the sensations she created, how good she made him feel.

If only it could be like this forever.

His heart beat quickened, thudding in his ears and causing his cock to jerk beneath her. He wanted to touch her, to hold her head to his skin. He pulled against his bindings, but they didn’t budge.

“I want to touch you,” he said.

“Soon.”

“Now.”

“Soon.” She bit him again, hard. Pain shot through his body as she sat down on his lap and pressed all of that sweet, wet heat against his shaft.

His deamhan roared in frustration. It stomped and paced through his mind and body, demanding release. Mine, take her.

Then he felt something cold, hard and metallic pinch his nipple.

What the—he cried out as pain blasted through his body. His deamhan roared with him, the noise almost deafening in his head. Then it fell silent.

When the pain finally passed, he found himself panting like an animal. His quick intake of breath echoed off the walls and filled the room.

“What was that?”

“Something I had in my bedroom.”

“In your bedroom? You use this?”

“Sometimes.” She flicked the metal object, sending a ripple of pain through his torso. “When I’m lonely.”

Fuck, she used this? The beautiful woman must love pain as much as he did. What did she do after she clamped her nipples? Did she flick the metal or did she play with her clit? Perhaps she’d be impatient and slide her fingers into her core.

Yes, that’s what she’d do. The thought of her alone in her room, clamping her nipple and sliding those long, delicate fingers into her pussy, was almost too much to bear.

Fuck.

“The queen assigned me to look after you and sometimes, after a long day of watching you from afar, I needed to find some release, to relax.” She ran her soft fingers down the middle of his chest. “I thought you might enjoy them as much as I did.”

“I do.” His throat felt dry and rough. When Ari pleasured herself, did she use one finger or two? Perhaps she’d use three or four. An image flashed through his mind of Ari sprawled out on her back, clamps on her nipples and fingers in her pussy as she strained for release, a release she couldn’t find on her own, a release only he could give her.

She flicked the metal once more, causing him to hiss. “Is the pain too much?” she asked.

“No, it’s perfect.” More than perfect. The pain appeased his deamhan, cleared his head and made him able to feel more like himself. Now that the initial shock had worn off, he felt better than he had in months, since before he entered the portal into hell.

“What are you planning to do to me?” he asked. God, he needed her, needed her bad.

“You’ll see.” She leaned over his body and ran her velvet tongue over his other nipple.

Again? He gasped and pressed his head back onto the pillow, the movement causing the clamp on his nipple to move and a burst of pain to slice through his body. The deamhan purred with delight as a mixture of pleasure and agony rolled through him. Sweat beaded on his brow, and dampened the blindfold. Sweet Mother Earth, he wasn’t sure if he was going to survive this.

***

Bio:

Suzanne RockWebsite: www.SuzanneRock.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/suzanne.rock

Twitter: www.twitter.com/suzanne_rock

Online Workshops: http://suzannerock.com/?page_id=64

Super Saturday

2011-11-12T08:38:00.000-05:00

Happy weekend everyone! I love the weekend, especially when I'm about to finish typing a book. Big smile for that one. So much has been going on that I haven't posted much, but I'm back today for a bit. It's been a busy week of trying to get Blood Avenged complete and to my editor and betas. I'm thinking early this week....yay!

In other news, Destiny Redeemed received two really terrific reviews this week, one from The Romance Reviews, where it received a 4 out of 5 stars, and another from Riverina Romantics, where it received 4.5 out of 5 hearts. Each review gushed about the world building, characters, and plot, in addition to the steamy romance, of course. :) I've been over at Riverina Romantics all this week with their Having Fun With Gabrielle Bisset event, so check out some of the other days too while you're there (the Wednesday Hump Day Hottie was my choice and I went with Alcide. Megan did a great job of finding the most delicious pictures...okay, now I'm drooling. Just go check it out.).

Finally, the Destiny Redeemed tour continues today at the Ramblings From This Chick blog. I'm there today talking about reincarnation in paranormal romance and for a little change, the excerpt is all about the heroine, Thea. Check it out! And don't forget the giveaway going on all month with the tour. I'm giving away seven copies of the book, so enter to win!

It's back to the typing for me today, but I'll be back next week with more tour dates and hopefully the news that Blood Avenged is complete and off to all those great people who do such a great job for my books. And I'm mulling over an idea for Thanksgiving to say "Thanks!" to all the great readers out there. Keep an eye out for that beginning November 21.

Have a great one!

Author Raine Delight Guest Post and Excerpt

2011-11-11T07:31:00.000-05:00

Please join me in welcoming Raine Delight and Damien and Rod Dracon from her Devon Falls Series, and be sure to read on for an excerpt too!

Raine’s Muse settles in his easy chair and sips from a mug of coffee. Tapping his foot, he waits for the two Dracon brothers to come for their interview. He mutters, “I swear those two are going to be turned into jackasses if they skip this interview.” He looks up and smiles at the way Damien and Rodrick look as glum as they walk through the door.

“Well, gentlemen, it’s about bloody time you got here. I swear if I didn’t promise Raine to be good, you would have been in deep trouble.” Muse says as he watches them settle in the two other chairs in the room. “Let’s get started shall we.”

Thank you two for sitting down with me to answer some questions. – Muse

Like either one of us had a chance. You threatened to edit us out of the series if we didn’t. Just hurry up so I can get back to Alicia. – Damien

Oh stuff it Damien. I swear you two have no reason to complain- Muse growls back before he settles comfortably in his chair. Setting up the recorder, he turns it on.

Q: You two are the heirs to the Dragon Inn that is located in Devon Falls. Who runs it now?

“Well we both do. I take care of the day to day stuff and Rod here takes care of paperwork, orders and every now and again helps out in the kitchen.” Damien leans toward Muse and stage whispers, “He makes a mean flan if I do say so myself”

“Oh great go ahead Damien and tell the world I can cook.” Rod sighs in disgust* “Yes, for the record I like to cook and enjoy baking some days. It relaxes me and if anyone tries to make anything of it, I am going to kick them in the head.” Rod says as he glares at his brother who is laughing softly at Rod’s discomfort.

Boys, play nice now. Raine doesn’t like it when you two fight. Muse says as he keeps recording their conversation. Now onto the next question, guys. *Takes a sip of his now cooling coffee and hopes that maybe he can convince Raine that he needs an assistant.*

Q: Why do you two have different shape shifting abilities?

A: Rod looks at the muse and says, “Blame the genes for god sake. It is tradition in our family to have different shifting abilities. It makes family gatherings quite interesting though.

Q: Rodrick can sense others magical abilities, what about Damien? What are his abilities?

A: Damien looks at the muse and answers, “Well I can shift into a dragon and Alicia thinks it’s “pretty”. Women! I swear I am to be big, tough and scary…..not pretty. That is such a girlie word though don’t tell her I said so. I happen to like having sex and her cooking is da bomb.

Rodrick bursts out laughing, “She thinks you look pretty…as in flower pretty? Oh geez….that is too hilarious. I can picture you in your dragon form and have her make flower crowns for you.” His laughter had Damien looking like he wanted to scorch Rod on the spot, smoke was curling from his nose.

Muse leans forward and taps both guys on the knee, “Knock it off Damien. If you start a fire in my living room, I am scorching your ass and Raine won’t be able to stop it either. She won’t like it if you destroy her leather chairs she just got the other day for me.”

Damien glares at Rod as his brother keeps laughing and then mutters “Well what was I to do, argue with the woman. Sheesh, I just got back in her good graces for Pete’s sake.”

Q: Has Alicia forgiven you,Damien, for leaving her or is she making you work for it still?

A: Damien sighs again while keeping an eye on Rod who is still snickering under his breath, “I have a long way to go before she trusts me fully again. We are making strides though and with her sister Jenna’s engagement, it helps that we keep the lines of communication open. I can’t talk for her but on my end, I try to make each day showing her that she means more to me than ever. I don’t do wooing very well so it is hard for me to show how much I am sorry for all the hurt I caused her. It isn’t just her forgiving me; I have to forgive myself as well.” Damien pauses and sighs as he tries to get his thoughts in order. “Every day is a godsend to me as I wake up beside her and see the love in her eyes. It shows me that forgiveness, even though I did her wrong in the past, is still an amazing thing to behold.”

Rod looks at Damien and makes a show of wiping a tear away from his eye as he plays an imaginary violin. “Dang, brother of mine, if I wasn’t depressed before, I am now. That was way too schmaltzy even for me.”

Muse leans over and smacks Rod on the leg, “Knock it off you idiot. I swear if you two don’t stop trying to push each others buttons here, I am going to kick your ass from here to Greenland. Are we clear?”

Both guys glare at Muse before nodding and muttering about overachiever muses and the evil things they do.

Q: Damien, Why did it take so long for you to come back after your grandfather died?

A: Damien looks at Muse, “Well I was just unsure of everything. I spent time with relatives *Rod mutters under his breath- and with sexy models* and wolf boy here kept missing me with his messages.

Damien slaps Rod in the back of the head. “I wouldn’t say that in front of Alicia, Rod. She will string you up and beat you if you even mention that; though if you do……I may have to sell tickets because that would be prime entertainment.”

Rod rubs his head and growls in his throat, “Hey, just stating a fact here. You did have several women there or so the gossip rags said and it looked as if they were awfully good looking Damien. You know I won’t say anything; just a tad envious is all. The women all look FINE to my eyes.” Rod then wiggles his eyebrows and leers at Damien comically.

“You know, you are such a player, Rod. I swear if it had two legs, tits and an ass, you would flirt with them no matter what.” Damien says as he tries not to give into the urge to beat his brother senseless. “Besides what Jaxon would do to you would be so much more fun to watch.” Damien watched as his brother’s eyes glared daggers at him. Snickering softly, he glanced at the muse who had the look of “Why Me” on his face.

“You know you can be such an ass, Damien. I swear if mother hadn’t ingrained some manners in us, I would beat you to a pulp by now.” Rod said as he shifted in his chair. The wolf inside him wanted to lunge at Damien but Rod kept a firm grasp on him.

Q: Rod, You never had a serious relationship with a woman, could it be because you had a thing for Jax?

Damien snorts in laughter, “Yep player all the way. He goes through women like they are going to die out tomorrow.”

“Shut the hell up, you jackass.” Rod said as he lunged at Damien.

“BOYS! Do I need to remind you that if you ruin the said new furniture, I am going to take your asses and staple them to the road?” Muse yelled as Damien jumped out of his chair, knocking it over to escape Rod’s fist.

“You and what army wolf boy” Damien growled as his eyes changed to a red, signaling the dragon’s desire to come play.

A loud bang hit the air and both Damien and Rod looked around finally spying Muse standing up with a determined annoyed look on his face.

“SIT…..YOUR…..ASSES….DOWN……NOW!”

Damien and Rod slowly with eyes left on Muse, they sat back down and fixed the chairs.

“If you two are done making complete and utter asses of yourselves, can we please finish this interview so I can kick your butts out and save the furniture from harm?”

Now where were we, oh yeah, Rod, your question.

Rod looks at the muse and blinks, “I swear god made that woman to be the bane of my existence. She is so aggravating and annoying, always ready with a quip or to make you wish you could throttle her. Why me she picks to torment is beyond me.” With grimace, he continues, “But she has a good heart and lately if everyone is telling me right *glares at Damien*, wolf decided that she was it for me and wooing her is dang hard work. I swear the natural charm I have is NOT working with her nor is she letting me call all the shots in our relationship.”

Damien snickers “Though to see him fall for her was a delight. The ladies man of Devon Falls found the one woman who is immune to his charms and seductions. It is great to see all those fireworks between them. I swear if we all bet who would survive between these two, I would put money on Jax. She is a force to be reckoned with when these two are together.”

Rod glares at Damien and just huffs in annoyance at his laughter.

Q: What first attracted you to your mates?

Damien answers “Alicia has a certain love of life about her. She loves to laugh and gives of a certain joy when you see her in the Dew Drop creating the desserts everyone loves here in Devon Falls. The way her eyes sparkled and that smile caught my eye then the rest fell in place for me.”

Rod looks at Damien and sighs, “You know I swear you gotten too romantic for my tastes Damien. With Jaxon, it wasn’t anything in particular. She isn’t what I had in mind as a mate *Damien snickers and says- yeah she isn’t blond with double D’s* and for some reason, she calms us, I mean both myself and the wolf inside me. She keeps me guessing at what is coming out of her mouth and she makes me laugh with her quips. “Rod thinks a bit and continues after clearing his throat, “She draws me like no other woman has and she is the one person I can actually see myself with in years down the road.” Blushing, Rod ducks his head as Damien hoots it up and slaps the chair. “Yeah he has it bad, Muse, don’t you think?”

Muse just watches these two and wonders what he ever did to Raine to put up with these two.

Q: Will Devon Falls always be your home or can you see moving in the future?

A: Both guys look at Muse like he was the one insane.

“Why would we leave? Devon Falls is great place and we have a future here, ties to the community and it is a place were all paranormals, regardless of what/who they are can come and enjoy in utter peace.” Rod says as he smiles softly. “This is home to us though we may go see the world, so to speak but we always come “Home”.

Damien nods his head in agreement, “Yeah, Devon Falls is home to us and we love it here. “

Muse smiles as both guys look so content after answering this.

“So neither of you want to go explore the world and see all the big cities?” Muse teases as he watches Damien and Rod relax in their chairs.

“I did explore a bit and the world is big, scary place, especially if you are a paranormal.” Damien shrugs, “I always felt like I was missing a part of me and when I came back home, it felt so right to be here in Devon Falls.”

Ok I have to ask this last question because the readers are anxious on it……..

Q: Is this the end to the series?

A: Damien and Rod both look at Muse….”Well you tell us. I know Raine has one more planned but after that I can’t say for sure but maybe 2 more books coming but don’t quote me on it.”

Muse smiles sagely, “Now why would I tell you if the series is ending or not.” Grinning widely, “With Jenna and Marc’s wedding coming up, will we hear the wedding bells ring for you two as well?”

Both guys look at muse and stand up in a panic”Oh hell no” both guys say at once. The panicked looks on their face made muse laugh loudly at the way these two tough guys looked like cornered rats.

Muse stands up and motions them to the door, “Relax guys, just teasing. I don’t know what is in store for you all but I can say this, Devon Falls is never, ever boring.”

As Damien and Rod walk out the door, they look back at the muse and you can see the collective relief on their faces as they realized that the torture was done.

Muse sat down with a sigh and clicked off the recorder. “Thank god that was done. Those two are so volatile half the time; it makes me want to smack them down with a stick.”

Looking at disgust at the cold coffee in his cup, he looks around his beloved living room and smiles wickedly, “Now onto the women of Devon Falls.”

Haunting Magic by Raine Delight

Series: Devon Falls 4

Secret Cravings Publishing

Available November 7^th, 2011

Buy at: http://tinyurl.com/Devon-Falls-4-Haunting-Magic

A wolf shifter finds that falling in love is not the only problem he has. Can he convince Jaxon that his love is true?

For wolf shifter Rod Dracon finding his destined mate just got harder for the woman his wolf wanted was none other than Jaxon Sinclair. A woman who would sneer and quip about his life but he couldn’t deny that she called to him on a primal level. Now the question is can this wolf shifter claim his mate before she walks away….forever.

Adult Sneak Peek:

He looked even better close up though she damn well wasn’t going to tell him that. He had a swelled head as it was, considering all the honeybees that swarmed all over him. She mentally gathered her defenses. If she didn’t know better, she would have thought she was in lust with Rodrick, impossible as seemed from the way they sniped at each other. Shaking her head slightly, she felt his gaze move to her and heard his startled breath as she walked up to the porch.

“Hey, Rod, slow night?” Jax asked. Her eyes drank in the way his muscles bunched under his t-shirt. She felt her stomach clench, though it could have been the anticipation of food that waited inside the dark mahogany doors. The way he was watching her had her nerves on edge. She didn’t know what the hell his problem was, but Jax was determined to get in and out with her order before Rod pushed her buttons. She just was not up to dealing with him tonight.

“Yeah, seems everyone is getting ready for the Halloween costume dance tomorrow. What are you up to tonight? Got a dinner date?” Rod growled at her, his eyes shining with a glow that almost made Jax take a step back before she caught herself. Shaking her head, she said, “What the hell is wrong with you tonight? I was going to have dinner with Grady, but he got short-staffed and had to cover tonight. I just wanted to see if I can grab a take out from your mom.” Jax marveled at how normal it was between them. Though she thought the hair on his arms bristled at the thought of her on a date, it probably was her imagination. Rod wasn’t interested in her, just the ones who wanted a good time and an easy lay.

“I am sure my mom would love to give you something since everyone knows you can burn water without even trying.” The smile that tugged at his lips had her eyes go wide then narrow in annoyance.

“What the hell would you know about cooking, you jackass? I bet you couldn’t make something if your life depended on it,” she sneered. Her hands closed into fists and she was tempted to smack him for being so damn annoying. If she didn’t know better, she would have thought there was a smile lingering on his smug face.

“Oh, are you challenging me, Jax? Can’t take the fact that I may actually know something you don’t? Want to take that to a test?” Rod leaned forward, stroked a finger down her nose, and said softly, “Afraid that maybe I can do something that will make you readjust your opinion of me?”

Jax was stunned by the clenching of her pussy as he traced his finger down her nose. If she didn’t know better, she could have sworn there was a flare of interest in his eyes; though it could have been that she was moon-mazed or something. Jax tried to still the weak-kneed response to him touching her as she tried to form an annoying response.

“You can boil water? Oh, my god!” Jax looked up at the darkening sky and then back at Rod. “Wow the sky hasn’t fallen yet. Did you pay off Heaven or something? Has Hell frozen over and no one told the Devil?”

The smile that played on her lips had him growling low in his throat. Jax didn’t know what to think when Rod yanked her to him and said, “You have a death wish don’t you Jax? You really don’t want me to show you that I can do that and so much more.” His voice was low and husky; Jax felt her bones turn to mush as he nipped her ear. He turned her on, no two ways about it and damn it, why him? He has to be the most annoying man on this planet yet he also was sexy as sin and damn it to hell and back, he made her want him with every inch of her being. Trying to shove away from him was like trying to hit a rock with an open palm. He was an immovable object and his eyes, she could have sworn, glowed faintly.

“Will you please let me go, you ass?” Jax tried to keep her voice strong and pissed off but dang it; he was making her stomach do flips every time he nipped her ear. “If you really want to prove to me you can cook, fine. I swear it is like your male ego got in a snit or something.” She huffed and blew her breath out when nothing else seemed to make him let go, though if she were honest with herself, she liked his hands on her body. Still, it wasn’t like she was going to tell this idiot that. No telling what else he would do with that information.

“Is it possible that I can go grab some food before I die of starvation? I swear if that was your goal tonight, Rod, you are not doing a very good job.” Jax said as she felt his hands glide down her arms then let go, the lack of his touch almost had her keening for more. This attraction she had for him was getting out of hand, especially since she and Rod rubbed against each other like oil and water.

Her treacherous body leaned into him before she caught herself and as she glared at him, she didn’t know what the hell was going on tonight but for some reason tonight he was determined to drive her insane.

“Go get your take out, Jax, but tomorrow, make no plans for the evening. I got something to prove and frankly, I am more than a pretty face, Jaxon. I think it’s time for you to see what else I can do besides be the resident “Lathario” as you so charmingly call me.”

“Fine,” She snapped at him, disgusted with her at the way her body aroused from the way his voice. “If it makes your fragile male ego happy to prove something, come on over and frankly it better be edible please. Nothing frou-frou or stuff that I cannot pronounce for god’s sake. I get home about six so come by after that.”

The next thing she knew, he leaned over, snatched her from her spot on the sidewalk and smiled as her eyes widened. “Jaxon, if I didn’t know better, I would say you are intrigued by me making dinner for you. If this keeps up, I think I am going to have to show you some of my other hidden talents.” Then before she could form a coherent thought and punch him, he leaned forward and laid his full wet lips on hers, teasing her with a light caress of his tongue and with light firm kisses until she was panting and flushed. Before she could form a sane thought or even think of pushing him away, she kissed him back, teasing him with hard kisses as her tongue dueled with his as her arms wrapped themselves around his waist. With one last reluctant kiss, he stepped back. His eyes glittered in the moonlight and Jax saw his arousal strain his jeans. “Now the deal is set, Sweets. I will be there around six-thirty so don’t be playing the ’I am late’ game, I will be waiting for you.” Then he sauntered away back into the Inn, leaving her body primed for something and ready to kill him.

Bio: Raine Delight loves to be pampered by her harem of men that exist solely for her pleasure. Wait…..that was in a movie she saw. Hey, she can dream. J Raine loves to fight with her muse, attack her manuscripts and find a way to silence the many voices in her head. Inspiration hits at odd times and for Raine, a blank word document page gives her many possibilities on story ideas. Living with her two kids, a significant other who supports her every move in writing and doesn’t seem to mind she gets up at 2 am to type away on the computer. With a love for Johnny Depp, movies and 80’s hair bands, Raine finds a way to bring all her chaotic thoughts into a story that tells her readers about love and romance.

Raine Delight is a pseudonym of a self professed book lover and after one too many TSTL characters, decided to see if she could write something a little better. Well many drafts later, Devon Falls series came to together. Check out my book pages to see what is going on with me. My muse is a male nut who likes to leave me to go sip mai tais on the beach and leave me foundering for words; though eventually he takes pity on me and gets my words flowing and characters start settling down.

Personal notes: I live with my own boytoy and two kids. I love Johnny Depp movies and enjoy hiking, reading and watching movies with my family.

My links:

Website: http://authorrainedelight.com

Raine’s Blog: http://authorrainedelight.wordpress.com

Author/Reader Loop: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Author_Raine_Delight

Email me: rainedelight@yahoo.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorRaine-Delight

Secret Cravings Publishing: www.secretcravingspublishing.com

Wednesday Treats

2011-11-09T08:50:00.000-05:00

It's Wednesday, and the weekend is in full view. I'm still in typing mode, with about 50% of Blood Avenged done. I've been typing my little fingers to the bone! I'm a little ahead of schedule, so that's great. Yay! Thankfully, it's an easy week at work and I can type more than grade papers or make up tests.

Today I'm at Dawn Roberto's blog, Dawn's Reading Nook, talking about my paranormal characters, so click on over there and take a look. In addition, the week of fun with me at Riverina Romantics continues with my choice for Hump Day Hottie. Can you say practically naked Alcide? Yeah, it's definitely worth a look. Megan outdid herself there.

Also, take a look at yesterday's review of Vampire Dreams there and the latest stop on Destiny Redeemed's book tour at Lisa's World of Books.

So what are you up to today?

A Week Long Event and Blood Avenged Complete!

2011-11-06T09:59:00.001-05:00

Megan from Riverina Romantics contacted me a month or so ago and asked if I wanted to do a week long event at her blog. I was so flattered! My first event at a blogger's place. :D Well, that week has come around. All this week, look for excerpts, reviews, and even giveaways over there of all things Gabrielle Bisset. Today is the Sunday Swag giveaway. Check it out for three prize packs of signed bookmarks and cover flats. Thanks to the ladies there for such a fantastic welcome! And isn't the graphic sweet?

In addition, Reading Between The Wines hosted Amon yesterday for a guest blog on the Destiny Redeemed book tour. He was over there talking about his bad boy ways, which it seems may not be in the past. Thanks to the bloggers there for participating in the book tour. And don't miss the giveaway of Destiny Redeemed there too!

Finally, I'm happy to report Blood Avenged is complete. Now it's typing time, which is a very unhappy thing. I'm about 20% complete with that task, and when I'm finished, off it goes to the editor. Depending on how quickly I type, it could be to her by Thanksgiving and released by early to mid-December. Here's a little blurb to whet your appetite:

I am everything you desire. I am vampire.

Powerful and manipulative, Vasilije does as he pleases. A vampire beholden to no one, he takes what he desires, drinking deeply the pleasures this life has to offer and reigning over his vampires as a strong and selfish protector, never forgetting the loss of his sire centuries before.

When one of his own is staked, Vasilije must travel to New Orleans to exact his revenge. There he meets Sasa, a beautiful woman who arouses him like no other has for centuries. Vasilije’s need for vengeance is equaled only by his passion for her. But when the past threatens to repeat itself, will he do what he couldn’t centuries ago?

Look for excerpts in the coming weeks. Happy Sunday everyone!

Friday Fun

2011-11-04T09:03:00.001-04:00

Another week has gone by already and it's time for some fun. Today I'm at C.R. Moss's blog with an interview, and Mad Moose Mama has a promo up for Destiny Redeemed's book tour. Check them out for some interesting stuff! And Ing over at As The Pages Turn has a wonderful review up for Masquerade and is hosting a giveaway, so check that out too!

Finally, it's time for another Weekend Dirty Dozen. This dozen comes from the first chapter of Destiny Redeemed. Amon is in Nil, as he's been for the past year, and this is where the reader first meets him. Enjoy!

Tiny trails of moisture trickled down the wall to the grey cement floor. The prisoner in cell 801 felt one touch his shoulder as it was stopped on its journey, and he shivered at the feel of it as it touched his tender skin. The dampness of his cell, the chill, reflected what the place had done to him. Underground, in the bowels of the Earth, he did little more than exist in this place, like a creature unwelcome in the light of the sun and home only in the cold darkness of Nil. Beneath him, the cold floor made the painful areas on his legs ache, and a dull throbbing throughout his body reminded him of the countless punishments in his time there.

The nighttime noises of Nil stabbed at him, and as they had every night for the past year, they become the terrifying soundtrack to the worst part of Amon’s time in Nil. The screams of the weak reverberated through his body, a reminder of the horrors he’d endured on so many nights there. Not that he needed to be reminded. The pain that ran over every square inch of his skin, tactile terrors chasing after one another in a constant game of sadistic tag, never let him forget what he’d suffered through and what lie ahead in his future.

His mind drifted back to the night just after he’d arrived when the guards not only looked the other way to allow the other inmates to perform their initiation ritual on him but also told them who he’d been before being sent to Nil, as if they’d needed any encouragement for their bloodlust. Nothing in forty-seven lifetimes had been as terrifying as the hungry look in the eyes of the men who pushed him down face first on the cold, damp concrete floor while the one with the knife loomed over him. He hadn’t seen his eyes, but he’d heard his hollow laugh right before the sound of the vicious click of the blade coming out of its home made him stiffen in sheer terror.

For another excerpt and where to buy Destiny Redeemed, click HERE

Don't forget to visit the other participants in the Weekend Dirty Dozen!

Celebrating And What's A Kardash?

2011-11-02T10:10:00.000-04:00

It's the middle of the workweek, so I can see the weekend from here. Love that! November has gotten off to a great start and today continues with the celebrating Destiny Redeemed's release. Selena over at The Enchanted Book has given the book 5 books out of 5 and ranked it a New Favorite of hers, so definitely check her post out. In addition, The Romance Reviews interview with me about the book is up now too, so click on over. Rho asked some great questions that allowed me to expand on the background of my characters. And while you're there, definitely check out TRR's Year End Splash event, going on all November. I'm one of many authors and publishers who are taking part, and there are hundreds of prizes up for grabs.

And in new time measurement news, 72 days is now being called a Kardash. I was thinking yesterday that while 30 days for NaNoWriMo doesn't work for me (I hand write and edit as I go along), I like the idea of writing a novel in a Kardash. Perhaps that's what I'll do after the holidays. How does this sound?

A Novel In A Kardash: January 3-March 14

I'm liking it. And don't feel bad for Kim now that her name has become synonymous with a relatively short period of time. She's still fine. LOL

Happy Wednesday everyone!

A New Month of Excitement

2011-11-01T09:07:00.000-04:00

Welcome to November! Can you believe the year is almost over? Where did it go? Today I have a couple really exciting things to announce. First, Destiny Redeemed's book tour begins today, so look for guest posts, interviews, and giveaways at the following blogs. Today, I'm at The Enchanted Book with a guest post about the background of the paranormal characters I write in Destiny Redeemed.

Nov 1 and 2 review and guest post
The Enchanted Book
http://theenchantedbook.blogspot.com

Nov 3 Guest Blog
Mad Moose Mama
http://www.madmoosemama.blogspot.com

Nov 5 guest blog
Reading Between the Wines
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub.blogspot.com/

Nov 5 Interview
For The Love of Reading!
http://niinas-reading-and-reviewing.blogspot.com/

Nov 5 Guest Blog
Lisa’s World of Books

Nov 12 guest blog
Ramblings From This Chick
http://ramblingsfromthischick.blogspot.com/

Nov 14 Interview
JeanzBookReadNReview
http://jeanzbookreadnreview.blogspot.com/
interview at
http://jeanzbookreadnreview.blogspot.com/p/to-z-author-surname-of-my-reviews.html

Nov 16 Guest Blog
Getting Naughty Between the Stacks
http://gnbstacks.blogspot.com

Nov 17 Blog Promo and Review
Urban Girl Reader –
http://www.urbangirlreader.com

Nov 18 review
Sapphyria's Book Reviews
http://saphsbookblog.blogspot.com/

Nov 19 Guest Blog
Cocktails and Books
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com

Nov 21 Guest Blog (review later)
Bookin' It Reviews
www.bookinitreviews.com

Nov 23 interview
Authors By Authors
http://authorsbyauthors.blogspot.com

Nov 24 review
Braintasia Books
http://www.braintasiabooks.com/

Nov 25 review
www.reviewsbymolly.com

Nov 26 Promo
YzhaBella's BookShelf
http://yzhabellasbookshelf.blogspot.com

Nov 28 review and character interview
Reading Romances
http://readingromances.wordpress.com/

Nov 30 guest blog
http://www.kaydeeroyal.blogspot.com

Also, I'm the Author of the Week at the blog of the same name, so click on the picture to check that out all this week.

Finally, I'm one of the featured interviews at The Romance Reviews for the month of November. TRR and I did an interview about Destiny Redeemed and the reviewer, Rho, asked some really great questions. I'll be linking to that later this week.

It's going to be a very busy month, it seems. And just wait until next month...

Happy Samhain!

2011-10-31T08:53:00.000-04:00

It's October 31, and to pagans of all varieties, it's the day the veil between the spirit world and the living world is the thinnest. Samhain is also the new year for wiccans, so enjoy the day, whatever you choose to celebrate! I'm just back from New Orleans, and all I can say is wow...I'm going with the plan of what happens in New Orleans stays in New Orleans. ;) I don't know if I have anything left in me to celebrate today, but I'm going to try.

I did get some fantastic research done for the settings that will appear in Blood Avenged, and I even got half a chapter written on the plane ride home. I'm multi-tasking, baby!

The Bewitching Trick or Treat Hop is still going on through today, so leave a comment and do as many extra entries as you'd like for a chance to win Destiny Redeemed, Vampire Dreams, and swag prizes.

While I was away, Authors Promoting Authors ran a Six of A Story interview with me about Vampire Dreams (perfect for Halloween if you like sexy instead of scary), and then it appeared in The Romance Book Club Daily and The Erotic Fantasy Gazette. Check both out for some interesting articles and info on romance and erotica books.

Tomorrow begins the month long book tour for Destiny Redeemed, and I can't wait. I'll be posting each day about where I am and what's new with the tour, so look for that. And I'm one of the featured interviews in November at The Romance Reviews, so keep an eye out for that and TRR's Year End Splash event happening all month. It should be great fun!

And last, but not least, this weekend was an important one for me because I reached my 10,000th sale sometime Sunday. I can't thank enough the readers and bloggers who have supported me this year. That I was able to reach this milestone in just five months since the release of my first book is just incredible to me as an indie author, and all I can say is thanks and stick around because I'm just getting started.

Have a wonderful day everyone!