Daryn Cross-Get Ready for the Ride

Be Mystified with Paramour by Margaret Etheridge

2012-02-15T00:03:00.000-08:00

Amazon

Camellia Stafford has never been alone in her room. For twenty years, she’s been engaged in a fierce power struggle with her bedroom’s previous tenant, Frank DeLuca, the ghost trapped in the light fixture above her bed.

Caustic and cranky, Frank has one soft spot—Cam. Over the years, their feelings for one another have evolved from grudging friendship to an enduring love that burns white-hot until Frank puts his feelings for Cam on ice.

When she suffers the loss of her beloved father, Cam returns home to say good-bye, and confront her feelings for Frank. She finds an unexpected shoulder to lean on in neighbor, Bradley Mitchum. Cam falls hard and fast for the handsome ad man’s charming smile and passionate nature, but Brad’s easy-going exterior masks a steely backbone tempered by adversity.

Two men: one living, one dead, and both vying for her love. Now Cam must determine if her heart is strong enough to choose which dream could lead to a love that will last a lifetime.

I'd give in 5 Stars!!

Fall in Love-All Over Again

2012-02-09T19:01:00.000-08:00

With Romantic Reads in Be Mine Valentine from Turquoise Morning Press--

Amazon

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

Another Great Read from Turquoise Morning Press-Purrfect Voyage

2012-02-02T00:43:00.000-08:00

Kitty Carter is used to getting into strange situations when she chases her cat, Arthur. But this latest escapade is just too much! When Arthur chases a mouse at the marina while she's doing research for her book, she follows him down the dock and onto a yacht. Not entirely her plan, since she falls down some stairs and hits her head, and wakes to find herself out to sea. And she and Arthur aren’t the only ones on board!

Buy Now!! Amazon

Try out this read!! Secrets by Jan Scarbrough

2012-01-20T18:26:00.000-08:00

A 2011 CAPA Nominee from The Romance Studio
With her daughter all grown up and married, single mom Kelly Baron can start her new life in North Carolina, responsible only for herself. But first she must help her mother by returning to the small Indiana town she fled years ago. Newly divorced lawyer, Rob Scott, seeks solace in his small-town roots. The last thing he’s looking for is a relationship—until he runs into Kelly, and the secret she’s been keeping from him for twenty-one years.

Reviews
“Ms. Scarbrough has a way of involving sensuality without going in-depth so that younger readers cannot enjoy the book.” ~The Romance Studio

“I thoroughly enjoyed this story and felt that I was watching it unfold in front of me as if I was another character in the story.” ~NOR Reviews

“With a story that rings so true, the reader will feel like they had heard it at the local beauty parlor. The craft of this author keeps this story novel.” ~The Romance Reviews

This Magic Moment Releases

2011-12-20T03:38:00.000-08:00

Zack Graham, CEO of Scrumbles Snack Cakes and Crandall Drake, CEO of Pretzelcious Pretzels are workaholics. Mike Kramer and Gretta Fishman, who work for each CEO respectively, are not. What’s worse, Mike and Gretta are lovers who can’t spend time with each other due to their boss’ OCD work habits. But they have a plan: ask Maxwell Magic, the magnanimous, magical, mystery matchmaker, to solve their problem by getting their two bosses to stop working and start loving in a match that lasts forever.

Zack and Crandall are in for a crazy ride, because Maxwell knows all and he will design a plan that is infallible; but, in the process they will have long-hidden secrets exposed and will be forced to sacrifice more than they thought possible to gain what they never though could come true.

But it can, because it’s magic-This Magic Moment!

Now available exclusively at Amazon

Ræliksen

2011-12-08T03:39:00.000-08:00

Here's a great read for the season from friend and fellow writer, Renee Voncent!

Mara, the daughter of an Irish clansman, was raised to believe the men of the North are heathens - murderous pagans without a moral bone in their bodies. Despite warnings of the Northmen's raids, and the growing threat of another incursion, Mara is continually drawn to her favorite place - the River Shannon.

Dægan Ræliksen, a wealthy chieftain from Norway's frozen fjords, secretly discovers Mara at the water's edge. He is charmed by her beauty and sensuous grace. As the days pass, his contentment with simply watching her grows thin. He can no longer deny his unabated desire for the young maiden. His search for a wife has ended.

However, Mara and Dægan come face-to-face in a time when Ireland is in turmoil - when every Irishman is being called up to fight against the Nordic foreigners. In these times of upheaval, how can Dægan make peace with Mara's father and acquire the woman he treasures? Furthermore, can Mara move past her fears and find the noble man within the savage?

Buy Link

Walk Right In Has Been Released!

2011-10-19T03:54:00.000-07:00

Now available at Amazon and All Romance Ebooks!

At Amazon

Happy Fathers's Day

2011-06-19T08:08:00.001-07:00

To father's everywhere.

New Cover!

2011-06-05T14:55:00.000-07:00

The Book of the Beginning series comes out in early 2012. I think I've already shown you my Honey Blood and the Collector cover, debuting from Turquoise Morning Press in February, 2012, but here it is again:

Now, drum roll, here is the cover for Book 2, Sign of the Green Comet:

What do you guys think?

How about Something Demented?

2011-05-25T13:47:00.000-07:00

My short story, A Terrible Thing to Waste came out in one of L&L Dreamspell's anthologies, Dreamspell Demented, Volume 1. Here are the cover and a trailer. The buy links are also included.

All Romance EBooks

Kindle

In the Mood for Something a Little Naughty?

2011-05-25T08:58:00.000-07:00

Try my wicked little witch in this short story. All sorts of things can become bewitched.

Frozen Assets makes appearances

2011-04-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

There have been quite a few Frozen Assets spottings during the past week, so I hope some of my readers will take the time to check out just where it's been. It's now on the headlines at www.theromancereviews.com and also on the front page of www.manicreaders.com. Last week, it made a debut with the book trailer at Kindle Author and again as an author being interviewed on Sunday at Kindle Author.

Frozen Assets Featured on Kindle Author

2011-04-05T13:47:00.000-07:00

Go check it out at http://kindle-author.blogspot.com
Frozen Assets is also on sale this month for $.99!

New Book Trailer for Frozen Assets

2011-03-26T15:36:00.000-07:00

New Indie Published Books Go Live!

2011-03-23T09:43:00.000-07:00

Finally, both Millicent and Frozen Assets have gone live! For now they're up at Smashwords. Frozen Assets is up on Amazon and Millicent will probably be there tomorrow. Here are the links as they stand now--please note I have included a coupon code for Millicent on Smashwords. Use it if you buy it there (all formats but Kindle/mobi/prc, and get the book for $1.00).

Smashwords
Coupon Code at Checkout (for it discounted to $1.00): RW33Q
Amazon Kindle

Amazon Kindle
Smashwords

Find out more about the new series at www.TheCashChroniclesSeries.com

Interview with Stormy Knight

2011-03-16T00:03:00.000-07:00

Stormy Knight is an author of erotic romance and erotica. Her newest work, Red Hot Lightning, a Dirty Bits short story, is available from Sapphire Nights Books. This is my first erotica author on the blog. She is a longtime friend who also writes as herself in another genre.

How did you come up with the title of your book?
Having sex during a thunderstorm has always excited me. I also heard a Mystic Moods song one time that had the thunder in the background while moans can be heard from two lovers in the throes of passion. Of course, it didn’t hurt something similar happened to me a long time ago, so, I can say there’s a kernel of truth in this story.

What is Red Hot Lightning about?
It’s about a woman who has had bad luck in relationships and now has gone a long time without sex. Spurred on by the relentless heat and spiraling tension, she decides to do something about it. She remembers a man has recently given her an invitation to visit, and she doesn’t think he wants her over for tea.

What made you decide to write erotica?
Can I say it was because I hadn’t done it? (grins) I’ve written all types of romance but not this one. I heard Sapphire Nights Books, www.sapphirenightsbooks.com, had an open call for submissions and thought, why not? I’m a male/female erotica kind of girl and don’t think I’ll never get too kinky with my writing, but I believe readers will find it extremely hot.

What are your current projects?
I just finished a novella, All for Lust, the first in what I hope will be a series of three(or maybe more, because I really want to bring back the man who is the love interest in book one). Here’s hoping my editor likes it.

I’ve also submitted another Dirty Bits short story.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Making sure there’s enough sex and it’s varied. I have had a very eventful “dating” life in my past, so I’m no angel. But, I’m still learning about all sorts of things I never tried. Who knew?

Do you have any advice for other writers?
Make sure you really know how to write and practice your craft a lot before you try to submit anything. Don’t think you can throw a lot of sex at the public without a story to hold it together. Did I mention your characters have to be well-developed?

Can you share a blurb with us (G-rated, please)?
Skye Miller is so tense, not even a full set of tennis can unwind her tight muscles—her tension heightened by a raging summer storm that grips the town. But a hot and sweaty set of tennis is not the physical exercise she craves, nor will the pounding rain erase her pain. Thank the sex gods above she remembers a possible remedy just up the street. And he’s already posed the invitation.

Available at:

Smashwords
AllRomance Ebooks
Amazon Kindle
Barnes & Noble Nook

Follow me at http://twitter.com/steamystormy
At my website: www.stormyknight.net
And my blog: http://steamystormyknight.Blogspot.com

Broken Hearts Blogfest

2011-03-13T16:11:00.000-07:00

Sorry folks, late today. Here is my post from It's Magic. It's now available in print and online at lost retailers. After you read and/or comment go on to the next blog in the hop by clicking the button in the right sidebar.:

There are many ways in which dogs are superior to their male owners. In previous chapters, I have touched on some of these traits.

Now we will discuss the most important way in which dogs excel: they cannot tell a lie.

A dog hates to admit the truth, especially when it might get him in trouble, but who doesn’t? The real difference between man and his dog is the dog can’t tell a lie.

His body language tells the truth. His tail tucks between his legs. His ears flatten to the sides of his head. His jaw droops. He refuses to look you in the eye, not wanting to see disapproval or disappointment there.

The dog is smart.

Men on the other hand, can be dishonest. They can and do look you in the eye and lie without a trace of remorse. They have become virtuosos of the falsehood.

Here are several of the ways they disguise their deceit:

1. Act like he doesn’t know anything about what happened. This is very effective when they’ve ruined something you own. Say, heaven forbid, you let them near the laundry and they shrink your angora sweater. A man’s response? “How was I supposed to know? It was in the bag next to the washer.” The fact the bag is marked ‘Dry-cleaning’ is not considered relevant.

2. Change the subject when you ask a question. To be fair, this isn’t lying, just not telling the truth. This is what I call “a dishonest omission.”

3. Take the offensive. When you aggressively pursue the truth, the man will turn on you, finding that one kink in your armor and attack. The hoped for result is making you feel guilty.

4. Some men swear they’re telling the truth, while you know they’re lying. These men could be caught naked in bed with a woman and would declare the bedmate was suffering from hypothermia, and he was doing his best to keep her alive. Should you point out that it’s ninety degrees outside, they will attack claiming you’re selfish and don’t care if the woman dies. These men should be avoided at all costs. You’ll never be sure when what they said is reality or well-crafted dishonesty.

After saving her manuscript, Kasey closed the document on her computer. No question about it, she could kick herself for allowing herself to have dreams of what could be fill her mind, and then have them smashed, dashed, and crushed, to bring an acidic bite back to her writing.

Thank God, the book was back on track. Rising from her chair, she ambled from her office and down the front hall. Now, if only she regained control of her life.
Without thinking, she headed for the one place that never disappointed her--the kitchen. With soup spoon in hand, she opened the freezer. Retrieving the half-gallon of Rocky Road ice cream, she prayed she’d left enough from last night’s binge to satisfy tonight’s depression.

Complementary or Opplementary

2011-03-11T00:03:00.000-08:00

Please welcome guest blogger, Kat Duncan, who graciously has joined us today to share a writing tip from her upcoming class at Savvy Authors.

A story needs people (characters). The story people need something to do (premise). Which comes first the premise or the people?

Well, my grandfather used to say, "If we had some tea, we could have tea and toast. If we had the toast."

I like to go opposite to the crowd. Most writers start with the premise. Let's try starting with people. We need at least one main character (protagonist). Two is good, since this is probably a romance novel. By the way three is not a crowd in romance. Three is either the antagonist (villain) or a ménage.

The story people have to interact. So you have to decide: are these people complementary or opplementary? Do they complement each other the way Jack Sprat and his wife did? (y'know the you eat fat and I eat lean folks). Complementary characters get along, share common goals and generally help each other.

Or are the characters opplementary? Opplementary people don't get along. They don't see eye to eye. Like Jack and the Giant (y'know the beanstalk guys). This applies to antagonists too. Just because a character is the villain, doesn't mean he can't get along with the protagonist. The scariest villains are characters the protagonist trusts - or thinks he trusts.

Once you decide whether the characters are complementary or opplementary, then you need a premise for them to tangle with. The premise puts the characters in a stressful situation. Stress is good. No stressful situation. No story. The stress can be mild or strong. You don't need to invent wild, mystical places (though it's great if you can) or have lots of shootouts, murders and disasters (though that's fine, too). Statistical analysis of the top ten stressors in life are:

1. Spouse’s death
2. Divorce
3. Marriage separation
4. Jail term
5. Death of a close relative
6. Injury or illness
7. Marriage
8. Fired from job
9. Marriage reconciliation
10. Retirement

So you can start there if you have no other ideas. Any character exposed to these stressors will react by changing behavior. Notice that these stressors are all external happenings. Mental stress goes with the premise, but it rarely works as the premise itself.

Your next job is to decide what is making the character behave that way (the way he's reacting to the stress). Is this the usual way the character behaves, or is it different? Think about who they are and what might make them react this way. For example how would your character react to being fired from a job? Would he be angry, relieved, fearful?

Next, have a look at what the character was expecting to happen versus what did happen. Again, complementary and opplementary can help you out here. If what they were expecting was opplementary, then it was unexpected and they don't like it. If what they were expecting was complementary, then it was unexpected and they do like it.

Notice the unexpected part. We don't want predictable things happening to characters.
Now you've got the proper ingredients for a story:

Complementary or opplementary people reacting to some kind of unexpected stressful situation.

Here are the four parts you need:
1. Complementary or opplementary characters
2. Reacting to
3. an unexpected
4. Stressful Situation

Thanks for stopping by. Share your comments here today and check out my year-long novel writing course that begins in May at Savvy Authors. You can also find me on the web at http://www.katduncan.net/writeabout

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Kat Duncan obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry and German from Regis College in Weston, MA. She is a Fulbright Scholar who spent a year in West Germany before the fall of the Berlin Wall. She recently obtained her Master's Degree in Special Education from Gordon College in Wenham, MA. She is a full-time tutor to students from elementary through college and beyond in reading, writing and math. An active member of the New England Chapter of RWA, and RWA-PRO, she has written a series of popular newsletter articles on grammar and style. She has presented a grammar and writing workshops for beginning writers both locally and online. With seven completed manuscripts and numerous short stories she uses a spreadsheet to keep track of her multiple submissions to agents and editors. Her debut book, a romantic suspense novella, titled Fifty-eight Faces, is due out January 12, 2011 from The Wild Rose Press.

Is Time Travel Sci-fi?

2011-03-04T08:37:00.000-08:00

Not too long ago, the owner of one of my listservs asked this question: is time travel classified as science fiction? There were mixed answers, but many proclaiming to be science fiction purists said "no." This, to me, makes no sense. I mean, even Mark Twain's A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court is considered a sci-fi fantasy. So why would so many proclaim it as not of the genre? This is my conclusion: time travel in fiction is more than sci-fi. It is cross-genre and anything that can't be easily classified as one thing is shunned as fitting at all.

I have a new book, make that old book totally re-edited and now a debut book at Black Opal Books. Craigs' Legacy was co-written with Linda Campbell under our pen name, Terry Campbell. It is the story of a modern day financial whiz who is pushed back through time by the ghost of a Confederate Colonel to save his life against three Union deserters. Is it possible? Not that we know of. Was techologically advanced equipment not yet known to man used? No,he pushed her back into an old wardrobe. But, did her body actually pass through a wormhole or cosmic string? Who knows? We may find out one day it can be done.

However, the story itself, though demonstrating how changes in our past can influence the present and the future, is a romance, is an historically-accurate account of times as they existed in 1864 Virginia, is a fantasy in that a woman can find her true love and hold on to it through time.

I am pleased it can be offered as a book that crosses four distinct genres.

Buy links:

Amazon

All Romance Ebooks

Interview with Author, Denise Verrico

2011-02-24T00:03:00.000-08:00

Denise Verrico is an author of urban fantasy. Her newest work Twilight of the Gods, Book Two of the Immortyl revolution is available from L&L Dreamspell.

How did you come up with the title?
It’s an allusion to the Norse idea of the Ragnorak. In Norse mythology, Loki is the “mischief maker” and is foretold to bring on the Ragnorak.

What is Twilight of the Gods about?
In book one, Cara Mia, vampires Mia Disantini and Kurt Eisen have done the unthinkable and rebelled against their elder, Brovik, who was funding research on vampire immortality. In addition, the lovers have stolen data that proves that Immortyls are mere biological mutations of human beings. In their culture, to even suggest this is punishable by death.
Mia and Kurt’s motivation is to find a cure for their condition, a rival elder, Gaius, is trying to harness the power of immortality for profit. Kurt builds a force among bands of cast-off teenaged and child vampires called sewer rats to battle Gaius. They give Kurt the nickname Loki. This soon inspires a worldwide revolutionary movement.

Meanwhile, Mia, his strong and independent partner, dislikes being shunted into the background in the “man’s world” of Immortyl politics. To add insult to injury for her, Kurt has formed a romantic attachment to Arturo, an Immortyl who saved his life. She is forced to make a difficult choice for the good of the revolution and her relationship to Kurt.

What books have most influenced your life most?
In my genre, I have to give credit to Anne Rice. I love her dark romanticism. I’m not against books like Twilight, but I do prefer a darker vampire. My next biggest influence would have to be historical fiction authors Mary Renault and Robert Graves. I love the accessible first person narratives in books like The Persian Boy and I Claudius. Court intrigue and politics fascinate me. I also loved Marion Zimmer Bradley’s The Mists of Avalon and Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
I’d have to say that my next book in the series, My Fearful Symmetry, owes a lot to Renault’s The Persian Boy. Renault’s book is told from the POV of Bogoas the companion to Alexander The Great. The tone of Renault’s writing is very conversational. I like that all of this history is happening around the characters, but that personal stories are so accessible.

I loved the idea of writing about a male courtesan, only mine is a vampire and he’s a temple artist in service to the Goddess Kali. His name is Cedric MacKinnon. He’s a nineteen-year-old Scot. Cedric is funny and irreverent; a modern teenager who wants more than anything to be a rock star, but life has dumped him at the bottom of the heap. A chance encounter with a mysterious Indian gentleman leads him to the chief elder’s court and lands him in the middle of a hotbed of political intrigue. I really wanted a character that sees Kurt’s revolution from the inside of the ruling class, but I didn’t want that POV entirely opposed to the idea. Cedric sees and experiences terrible things and does a lot of growing as a character. In a nutshell, the book is about a boy who becomes a vampire and fights to become a man.

What are your current projects?
I’m working on the fourth Immortyl Revolution novel, Ratopia, and a magic-based urban fantasy with a variety of paranormal characters.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
I find it hard to do things fast. I don’t know how some authors can get books done so quickly. The research and world building takes time, and I work a full time job. I come from the theatre and dialogue is easy for me. Usually, I write it first. The trick is in balancing how much narrative detail is needed against the dialogue arc of the scene. That’s where the art comes into the craft, and that is where those extra pairs of eyes from writer’s groups come in handy.

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Join a critique group if you haven’t. My groups help me so much. Also, strive to be original. Even though I like Anne Rice, I knew I wanted to write something very different. With the glut of vampire books out there, one of the most gratifying things I hear in reviews is that my books are very unique in the genre.

Blurb

Twilight of the Gods, Book Two of the Immortyl Revolution

Narrowly escaping the implosion of Genpath laboratories, vampires Mia Disantini and Kurt Eisen are on the run from Gaius Lupus their rival in the Forbidden Science. When Kurt is captured by their enemy and rescued with the aid of feral vampire kids known as sewer rats, Mia witnesses first hand the charismatic spell her lover casts over these would-be revolutionaries. Setting up base in Manhattan, Kurt builds his forces to face off with Gaius, while independent-minded Mia navigates the minefield of sewer rat politics, which she finds very much a man’s world. The lovers’ deep bond is put to the test by both the beautiful Arturo and Kurt’s followers, who see Mia as standing between them and their beloved “Loki.” Matters are further complicated when the chief elder, Kalidasa, arrives from India to investigate rumors of heresy and revolution. With the threat of war with Gaius drawing ever closer, Mia ands Kurt prepare to meet the biggest challenge of their lives.

Excerpt
Twilight of the Gods, Book Two of the Immortyl Revolution

Virginia 2001

“Mee-ya? Darling, it’s past nine.”

The kerosene lamp beside the old four-poster bed sputtered. My eyes opened on Kurt’s in the flickering light. Paul Newman in his prime on a really good day couldn’t compete with those big blues. “Hello, gorgeous.”

He chuckled and eased his slender body over mine, lips searching my throat for the landmarks, while something warm, hard, and smooth begged for entrance below.

“I dreamed about Ethan.”

He paused in his delicious pursuit to scowl. “Again?”

“I still chose you.”

A smile fluttered over his alarmingly pale mouth. “I must go out tonight to meet Carol.” He gestured to a plastic bag filled with red liquid sitting in a bath of warm water. “Only a pint left.”

“You take it. I had two last night.” I stroked the warmth poised to enter me. “Amazed you still manage. Better wait.” His lower lip pouted. “I’m not going anywhere.”

He pulled away sighing and sat up, stretching and running his fingers through tangled golden curls, a marble angel with a single blemish, inky and obscene on his left forearm, a vestige of his captivity long ago in Dachau. He lifted the plastic bag out of the basin and inserted a straw, drinking it down. The white linen napkin he used to wipe his mouth came away smeared with red. “I’ll take the bike.”

“I’d feel better if you took the car.”

Brushing damp hair back from my eyes, he kissed me. “The wind feels like freedom.” He pulled on a pair of jeans and a long-sleeved shirt. Despite the late August temperatures of Northern Virginia, it was necessary for him to conceal the tattoo. People might not take too kindly to what looked to be a boy in his late teens making an apparent mockery of others’ misery. Unfortunately for Kurt the misery was all too real and personal. I rolled over on the huge bed, sheets sticking to my skin. “We really need an air-conditioner.”

Kurt frowned as he buttoned his shirt. “We been through this—no electricity—no noise.”

“I’m tired of tepid baths. I’m dying for a hot shower. Jesus, even Ethan believed in hot running water.”

“Darling, no one must know we’re camping out here. I don’t like it, either. Hopefully, it won’t be much longer. Carol says she has a meeting with the Justice Department next week about a safe house.”

“Yeah, real safe—level four maximum security.”

“We simply won’t agree to it. We’ll figure out something.” He lifted my chin to kiss me.

His lips were chilly. He needed lots more than the pint he’d just consumed. “Back in half an hour.”

“Be careful. Take a gun.”

He patted a slight bulge under his shirt in the vicinity of his hip. “Don’t worry.”

Kurt left the room. Moments later, gravel crunched as he walked Ethan’s motorcycle down the long drive and through the gate to the road. The bike growled and then buzzed into the distance. I worried about Kurt out there where our enemies might be lying in wait. Where did he get off becoming so annoyingly male and protective on me? He wasn’t trained to fight. He was small and slight and against a bigger, stronger vampire he was no match. I was a better shot than he, and I’d already saved his life once.

The Rise of the Novella--cream to the top?

2011-02-18T07:18:00.000-08:00

The novella has been around for centuries, yet until recent years has been shunned by many print publishers as not quite good enough,mostly because of length. After all, the novella is really too short to publish in print by itself, and publishers didn't believe anyone would buy a collection from an unknown author. So, rarely would you see a bundled set of novellas which wasn't tied to already established and/or rising star authors the publisher was pushing, those who had a series that most likely would be associated with the shorter stories.

Then there was the whole discussion regarding length. What length was a novella? Did it have to be, as purists defined it, between 17,500 and 40,000 words? Or could it be, say 12,000 to 45,000 words? Where were the minimums and maximums?

Thankfully, as the digital age has expanded in its glory, these obstacles have been removed. Though print publishers still hold steadfast to their old model, digital and indie publishers are embracing the new shorter form of fiction. It doesn't matter the length of the story, really, for on an ereader one won't know where one page starts and another begins. Word count is only a nebulous indication of length.

Much more important, I believe, are the content and quality of the writing. One author, Cheryl Anne Gardner, on her shared blog, POD People (http://podpeep.blogspot.com/2009/06/thoughts-on-craft-cannegardner_11.html ) wrote about theme and thesis being critical to the novella, saying, Theme is the subject, and the thesis is the particular philosophy being argued with regard to the subject. Novellas tend to focus on a single suspenseful event, situation, or conflict. She goes on to mention that these should be expressed early in the novella, preferably in the first chapter.

In writing my recent work, Millicent, 13,000-words (short story or novella? You be the judge), the main character of this work and villainess in the first book of my science fiction series, The Cash Chronicles , is introduced as a seven-year old abused child who seeks security. Throughout the work you see the theme of security. However, the thesis unfolds as this: when does the need for secutiy cross over to the desire for power?

I feel fortunate to be able to publish such a work at this time and would love to hear about other folks' short works and their plans for digital publication.

Millicent will be released in mid-March as a digital work on Kindle and in other formats on Smashwords. The Cash Chronicles will debut with Frozen Assets, Book 1, in April.

Winner of the Drawing!

2011-02-16T10:09:00.000-08:00

I arbitrarily assigned numbers to all commenters and had a friend choose a number. And the winner of the drawing, drum roll please, is:

Karina!

Congratulations! I see you mentioned Craigs' Legacy as your book of choice. Please get in touch so I can make that happen. Send the e-mail to Daryn@DarynCross.com

To everyone else, thanks so much for commenting and being interested in my works and the other wonderful fiction titles. I hope you'll consider choosing one or more to read. Come back! This isn't my first and won't be my last drawing for a free download read.

Daryn aka Bobbye

Valentine's Day Blog Hop

2011-02-14T00:03:00.000-08:00

This is a Valentine's Day Blog Hop hosted by Good Choice Reading and Once Upon a Twilight. The purpose is for all you readers out there to have the opportunity to get some good reads you may not otherwise know about. Here are a couple for you to consider.

First choice is Paramour by Margaret Ethridge. It is her deput novel. Here is the cover and an excerpt from a review at BookingIt, www.BookingIt.net:

Paramour is that story prolific readers search for that only happens once every now and then. Ms. Ethridge made something completely magical and I feel thrilled and humbled to read something as great as this story. Frank, Cam and Brad’s story sang to me in such a way that I lost myself for awhile in the imaginary world and characters of Paramour. I laughed with them, I cried with them, and my stomach flip-flopped with them because I understood these characters in so much depth that I felt they were real.

Simply put: Paramour blows the roof off the house! I believe this new author is someone to watch. She’s going to make waves, especially if she can continually produce stories like Paramour.

Read. This. Book!

In the mood for romantic suspense? Get three books in one and enter for a chance to win a Kindle 3 Wi-Fi ereader and other goodies (more info at http://www.lldreamspell.com/Contests.htm) Specially priced now at AllRomance Ebooks.

I also included my two Valentine's releases. You may have a download of either one you wish if you enter the drawing by leaving a comment and win. Good luck!

www.BlackOpalBooks.com

www.TurquoiseMorningPress.com, on sale for a week (see coupons): http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs006/1102610362441/archive/1104512082161.html

Historical Romance Buffs, What About Sci-Fi?

2011-02-13T09:20:00.000-08:00

I have a lot of friends who read historical romance. So do I, though I have to say that most are time travels these days. Whether it be Timeless, that just came out from Alexandra Monir last month or The Time Traveler's Wife, a popular YA, or even one of mine, Craigs' Legacy, co-written with Linda Campbell as Terry Campbell (just out for Valentine's Day). All of these, like the traditional historical, give us a taste of something we yearn for, the glamour of an era gone by or the excitement of experiencing life as different than we know it. It got me to thinking.

Why do historical romance readers seldom seem to try reading a science fiction novel? Okay some do, like Moi and others who have eclectic tastes. But, I've heard many of my friends say, "Science fiction just isn't my cup of tea." Now, I've always been that way about vampire novels, just couldn't understand a woman getting excited about a man drawing her blood (I sure hate to give a sample at the doctor's office *big grins*). That beings said, I ran across a book just a week to ten days ago called Eden's Hell by Dawné Dominique and loved it. So my motto is "Never say never."

I am now in the process of writing a series of technically classified science fiction novels, all with some romance. The first is really a time travel and also a cyberpunk, in that the hero and heroine wake up from being cryogenically frozen in the year 2145 and the world of the future is a dystopian one with a lot of high technology. But the hero and heroine are from 1918. How they got there is part of the book. The way they speak and act is from a time gone by. The villainess, who was also cryoed and then cloned, is from the same time period as our travelers.

I thought to myself, wouldn't it be interesting if I did a long short story, bordering on short novella, a $.99 special on Kindle, and other formats,that showed how she got to be so vile? All of it would be historical, yet it shows the obvious:
Listen up historical readers! the future will be history one day.They're connected. What you love is the glamour of a different time. So, for crying out loud, try a science fiction novel. It may be what your future will look like.

An ebook slated for debut in late March by Daryn Cross.

New Blog Award--Thanks to Angelina Rain

2011-01-26T09:33:00.000-08:00

Angelina http://angelinarain.blogspot.com gave me this award almost two weeks ago--sorry for taking so long to post.

I am very proud--this is my second award for this site. I am supposed to say seven things about myself as a taggie and then pass the award along to fifteen bloggers whom I've recently discovered. So here goes:

1) I've won two *paying* awards for inspirational poetry.
2) I won a city-wide cooking contest and a team tennis title for the tri-state championship in the 70s.
2) I was selected as one of the top ten Discharge Planners in the country in the 80s.
3) I was nominated for Home Care Administrator of the Year in the National Association for Home Care in the 90s.
4) With Linda Campbell, writing as Terry Campbell, we were finalists in the Booksellers' Best Award in consecutive years in the 2000s.
5) I've been a solo finalist in two RWA-sponsored contests in the 2010s.
6) I will debut my first fiction book as Bobbye Terry this year.
7) I hope to win an award for one of my new novels soon.

Now on to choosing some great bloggers to receive this same Stylish Blogger Award:
1) Caroline at http://CarolineClemmons.Blogspot.com
2) Melinda at http://writingnotwhining.blogspot.com
3) Gail at http://tickettoanywhere.net
4) Beth at http://www.bethfishreads.com
5) http://www.thebookcellarx.com
6) http://theromancestudio.blogspot.com
7) http://turquoisemorningpressblog.blogspot.com
8) http://cymlowell.blogspot.com
9) http://wwwgeraldineevanscom.blogspot.com
10) Kati at http://klearsreviews.blogspot.com/
11) http://rabid-reads.blogspot.com
12) http://readingbud.blogspot.com
13) http://crazy-bookworm.blogspot.com
14) Yvonne at http://socratesbookreviews.blogspot.com
15) http://www.Sugarbeatsbooks.com

Great sites folks! Congrats one and all.

Angels: The Vampires of 2011

2011-01-19T10:13:00.000-08:00

I usually manage to hit a trend before it comes. Note, that when I originally wrote with Linda Campbell as Terry Campbell, romantic comedy wasn’t “in,” yet just a year after we released our books, all the editors were asking us, “Why didn’t you submit to us?” (this happened, honestly) Then we had a time-travel set in the civil war period. Two no-nos. Guess what? Time-travel is now on the upsurge. Yay! This time the book re-releases as a debut book from Black Opal Books on February 11th. Check out Craigs’ Legacy (book cover at the end of this blog).

But, right now, I want to talk about angels. We should have known they were going to be a trend. I mean, vampires are always in black—angels in white, right? So the pendulum swings…There is a twist. People seem drawn to the fallen angel, the one who wants redemption.

Daryn Cross has a book, Walk Right In, coming out from L&L Dreamspell in October and its sequel Walk Right Back, in January 2012. I mentioned this once before in an interview and everyone asked me about these books more than the one I was writing about. There is interest. As usual, my angels are a bit comedic and bungling. But the demons are menacing and the risks real. I do have a fallen angel as well who needs to redeem himself. He’s dropped in to a human’s body and they’re living quite a dual life.

Let me know what you see regarding the trend of angels. I know Nalini Singh has a series going on. Where else do you see this trend, and what do you think of it?

Craigs' Legacy debuting February 11, 2011, electronic formats--print to follow.

Terry Campbell backlist on Kindle

2011-01-09T08:52:00.000-08:00

Most of my current readers know I wrote for many years with a co-writer as Terry Campbell. Our backlist of romantic comedies is now available on Kindle for $2.99 each. Want to laugh? I think that's worth $2.99. Check them out. The best way to find them is at this link:
http://tinyurl.com/37wj3t2

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

The Best of 2010 Blogfest

2011-01-01T00:01:00.000-08:00

I decided to celebrate the accomplishments of 2010 a little differently. I hope you enjoy...
Daryn, aka Bobbye Terry and Terry Campbell

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

Just Received the Versatile Blogger Award

2010-12-20T14:04:00.000-08:00

I was recently honored with the Versatile Blogger Award, given to me by fellow writer, Rachel Firasek,www.rachelfirasek.com.

Here are the details of the Award as I know them:

Started with BLHMistress over at Book Lover’s Hideaway;
Then to The Creative Well;
Then to Sugar Beats Books;
Then to Julia Rachel Barrett;
Then to Claudia Alexander at Twillwoven.
Claudia awarded it to Rosalie Lario
She then awarded it to Rachel Firasek who awarded it to me.

As a 'taggie' I am supposed to do the following:
1) Share 7 things about myself.
2) Pass this award on to 15 other bloggers recently discovered.
3) Notifiy the recipients.
4) Link the blogger who gave this award.

So here we go:
Seven things about myself:
1) I am a former tennis champ in team tennis, tri-state division in Michelob Light team tennis.
2) I won the Lynchburg News & Advance cooking contest on year for the appetizer division (cream of broccoli soup).
3) I was President of the Lynchburg Business and Professional Women's Club.
4) I learned how to play chess when I was six.
5) I planned on being a Chemistry major in college after I graduated with the high school's science award.
6) I got five numbers out of six on the VIrginia State Lottery the year it started.
7) I was President of my church's Methodist Youth Fellowship.

I will now pass this award on.

Thanks again to Rachel.

Wish Upon a Star

2010-12-18T00:01:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time there was a cybernetic organism named Peter Pinocchio. Peter preferred the name cyborg, as he considered himself to be more than the typical cyborg and far more than a man that was electronically manufactured. However, Gina Geppetto, his maker, was fond of reminding him he was, after all, her creation. Peter dared to differ with her, for he was sure he was a creation of the universal mind of imagination, a powerful force far beyond only Gina’s capabilities. He did, after all, have powers greater than hers. He was sure he had only tapped a few. But she always could be expected to task him with mundane daily duties and never really allowed him to go beyond his basest talents.

Peter dreamed he could one day be all-human, but with his current super-human qualities. He knew what he wished was nothing but a dream, but his best friend, Jimminy Android convinced him it was possible. “When you wish upon a star your dreams come true,” he told Peter.

Maybe in another time and pace,” he said. “But not in what’s left of war-torn Nevada.”

“Even here,” Jimminy said. “Bob told me so.”

“Bob?”

He nodded. The fairy who assigned me to you.”

“I never knew you were assigned.”

He cocked his head sideways. “Do you really think I’d take care of you just because?”

Peter sighed in exasperation. Jimminy was forever pulling his leg. “So who is this Bob fairy person?”

He grinned. “He’s blue. Folks say he’s a Martian, but he claims he’s only been typecast and actually comes from Ceres. But he’s a fairy all right, as gay as they come. Still, he has the power to grant wishes.”

I nodded. “To each his own, Jimminy. I’m not into any kind of discrimination. After all, I’m considered substandard as a cyborg. I find it most devastating, as I am in love with Gina.”

Jimminy frowned. “Oh my, if you’re wishing for Gina, I’m not sure even Bob can grant your wish.”

A tall blue man with pointed ears walked around the corner. “My ears were burning. Were you talking about my granting a wish?”

Peter nodded. “Jimminy says you can make me a real man.”

Bob grinned. “So I can. But if I do, you need to prove you can be honest loyal and faithful.”

Peter patted his chest. “No problem. I am not programmed to lie or to stray from those who have been good to me.” He leaned forward. “Do you think I could make Gina fall in love with me?”

Bob’s eyebrow arched. “That’s a tall order. Let’s see how you do on the other part first.”

He waved his hand and Peter lurched as his electronic parts vanished and he stood before them, knowing he now had a beating heart instead of a mechanical valve system. Peter ran to the mirror and held his hand to his face. “I look similar, but there’s something about my skin. That must be blood flushing my cheeks.”

Bob nodded. “Other things flush also. You will feel stirrings you haven’t before.”

Peter cocked his head sideways. Whatever did he mean? “What do I need to do now to prove myself?”

Pointing, Bob smiled again. “Go to Pleasure Island of course. If you can remain honest loyal and faithful there, you can do it anywhere.”

“But Bob.” Jimminy trembled. “It is forbidden for anyone to go to Pleasure Island, for no one emerges who isn’t corrupt.”

Bob nodded. “So they say. That’s why it’s such a great test of Peter’s determination.”

After a week on Pleasure Island, Peter was exhausted. Jimminy had long since given up on him, for Peter had relished in all the island’s delights. He’d been amazed at how lavishly a real man could live. Just think, there was a never-ending buffet, wine and liquor and, most of all, women. Who’d have known the last item could be so enticing? It wasn’t disloyal of him to learn how to have sex, was it? After all, it would only make him a better lover for Gina. He had to admit, though, it was becoming more difficult with some, for something happened when he lied. He looked down at the crotch of his pants. If it got any longer he wouldn’t be able to zip it inside. He’d decided he had to tell the truth from here on out.

While in the middle of an all-night card game, Peter turned to see Jimminy standing next to him. Jimminy’s eyes looked frightened and distant. “Peter, Gina came looking for you, and a band of pirates in a hovercraft captured her. She’s being held captive on the Jolly Whale.”

Peter threw down his cards. “We have to get to her. Even if I have ruined my chances for ever making her fall in love with me, probably ruined them for staying a man if I go back, I must risk it. I cannot let her die.”

Early the next morning, just before the sun rose, Peter scaled the side of the Jolly Whale. He knocked the guard unconscious. Quickly he sneaked around front of the craft. There, tied to a pole, was his own sweet love, Gina, her long golden hair gleaming down her shoulders like the sun’s own rays. Her eyes widened as she saw him silently stride toward her. Taking a knife he had in his pocket, he sliced through her bindings. “I cannot believe how barbaric these men must be,” he whispered, “For them to use such old-fashioned methods in this day and age. Are you okay?”

She nodded. “Let’s get out of here.”

As they turned, a huge Gigantitron stood there in all of its glory, towering at least twelve feet over them. “You’re not going anywhere, mosquito,” the machine boomed.

“I will not let you harm her.” Peter placed his body between Gina and the Gigantitron.

The machine picked him up in its clawed hand and threw him in the lake’s deep water. Peter struggled, but the force of the fall had knocked all life out of him. As he sank below the murky depths, he closed his eyes and thanked Bob for at least allowing him to show Gina how much he loved her…

Thrashing with his arms to climb out of the darkness, Peter felt hands caressing his chest. “It’s okay, Peter. It’s okay.”

He opened his eyes to see Gina’s face swimming above his. “Where am I?”

Gina smiled and rubbed his forehead. “At the cottage. We placed you on your bed.”

His eyes focused. “It is my bed. But how?” He suddenly saw the faint outline of blue, Bob the fairy hovering above him.

“You deserved your wish Peter.” Bob vanished with a smile.

Gina kissed his lips. “Oh Peter, I’ve always loved you. When I made you I wished upon a star you could become a real man.”

Peter kissed her back. “I will always be true to you and we will be very happy.”

And they were. For Gina never complained about Peter’s previous small bout of lying.

THE END

Meet Gina Williams, "The Brat"

2010-12-15T07:25:00.000-08:00

I gave the low-slung silver sun that threatened rain on that early spring morning a cursory glance, and continued wiping down my kitchen when I was interrupted.

The sunlight caught the woman’s silvery-blonde hair making it glow. Her eyes shone, not with glee or fun, I realised with a jolt, but with anger and frustration.

“How much longer are you going to ignore me?” Her temper snapped and crackled round the room like a lightening bolt.

“Excuse me?”

O.K. I knew my characters often turned up expecting me to know all about them, but never had one been so aggressive on our first encounter. Didn’t she realise I could snuff out her chances of reaching a publisher?

Perhaps she did. After all if we worked well together she’d achieve her public acknowledgment and I’d bask in the joy of seeing my debut novel out there in print and ebook.

The woman stood there in my mind as clearly as though she stood in front of me. Her essence filled the room.

“I’m Gina Williams,” she said, and her smile challenged the reluctant spring sunlight.

I ignored her disclosure and followed my instinct. “I don’t believe Gina Williams is your full name,” I replied, and watched the heat rise up her neck and into her face. Not many thirty-something’s I knew still blushed so easily. “Why the intrigue?” I asked.

“All will be revealed.” Her smile turned feral, and I returned to wiping the kitchen surfaces.

“I have a secret,” she said, then paused. “A dark secret.”

Again I waited, but this time she remained silent.

“Most people have secrets,” I prompted. “What makes yours worthy of a full length novel?”

“It is a secret so dark that my life as it is now, and my future would be destroyed if someone unearthed it.”

“You are…” I studied her closely. “…in your mid thirties, I’d guess…”

“You don’t understand.” The ever present fury beneath her façade snapped. “Someone is stalking me.”

~~~~~

And so began my close association with Gina Williams, the heroine of my debut novel, The Brat, released on 1st October 2010 by the Wild Rose Press.

Sherry Gloag, author

Buy The Brat here = http://bit.ly/d5nVDC

And at Amazon = http://amzn.to/bclDhY

Website = www. sherrygloag.com/

Blog = http://bit.ly/bnuELA
Book Trailer = http://bit.ly/9O6j6C
Facebook = http://bit.ly/daeGN7
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thanks for visiting today, Sherry
Bobbye aka Daryn Cross

Crazy Holiday Blogfest!

2010-12-13T00:01:00.000-08:00

I'm glad you folks could drop by today! This is one of many blogs in today's blogfest. Click on the picture to the right to see who is participating and each name will lead you to a different blog.

Here's my excerpt from the latest WIP, This Magic Moment, the sequel to It's Magic. See the cover below my excerpt. NOTE: Maxwell Magic has his work cut out for him to turn the tide on this hero.

“It’s dead and the only way you can save it is resurrection.”

“But, for crying out loud, Zack! It’s Christmas Eve!”

“So what? We’ve got one month until the Super Bowl and our commercial’s flat.”

Zack Graham, strode toward the elevators. Staring at Mike Kramer, he wondered what was wrong with his cousin and VP of sales. The guy was acting like a green exec, not a man who’d weathered the worst on their way up the ladder.

Mike pulled to a stop beside him in front of the closed doors and glared at him. “It’s fixable.”

“Fixable?”

Mike stood there, his face twitching out of control. If Zack didn’t know better he’d have sworn the guy had a disorder. He shook his head in concern. Mike was coming unglued. Stress was something few people could handle like he could. The kid… Zack winced, silently correcting himself. The twenty-five-year-old man should be able to handle things better than this. He let out a deep breath as Mike finally nodded.

“Yeah, fixable.”

Zack whistled. “Get with the program. Right now it doesn’t have a pulse. And if we don’t figure out how to resuscitate it, more than a million’s flushed down the toilet.”

“What do you want to do?” Mike threw his arms out wide in that over-exaggerated gesture he made.

“Get downstairs to marketing, now, and kick some ass.”

The doors of the elevators opened. At the sight of the full elevator, Zack started to count. At three, he waved it on. He couldn’t help being claustrophobic. Too many bodies made his skin crawl. Lord knew when an almost empty one would show up.

“Why not let the marketing department work on it by itself?”

Cringing at Mike’s desperate tone, Zack turned and fixed on him with a laser-sharp gaze. “You can’t trust anything to get done unless you stay on top of it, especially in this season of good cheer and idle carelessness.”

Commenters will be entered for a chance at a free download of It's Magic.

Remembering Ted

2010-12-01T11:42:00.000-08:00

He was made in the mold of a bad boy hero with the insides of a marshmellow.

After almost a week since Ted’s death, I’m ready to emerge and pay tribute to my husband, cross-posting this on both my blogs. Please bear with me for this, dear readers and then we’ll be on with all things about books, reading and life in general.

Before beginning, I want to again thank the writing community to which I belong for their support and words of condolence. I discovered many have been in similar circumstances as I have and emerged refreshed and recharged. Your comfort has meant the world to me.

Now on to Ted…

I met my husband in 1979 at a small store on Rivermont Avenue called “The Cavalier.” My cousin introduced us. Ted wore a white hat with a feather sticking out of it, and his first words to me were, “Just call me Robin Hood.” I wasn’t sure his head was tied on real tight, but we soon fell into a very passionate and romantic relationship that lasted that whole summer. Near the end of it, he told me on the first day it rained he was taking a bus across country with his bike (big bike enthusiast, biked nine miles to and from work everyday, while climbing electric poles during the day at work). He said he missed California and was going back there but would call me. He did as he said he would and called me a few times cross-country, but then I heard nothing.

Fast forward four years to 1983. One day he showed up again, evidenced by leaving a dozen steamed crabs in a plastic bag around the doorknob of my apartment front door. He called and asked me out that evening for a welcome home party. We started seeing each other again. Then, on Labor Day weekend, we went to the Blue Ridge Parkway to find his brother who was camping out with his wife and newborn son. Ted was sure his brother would never camp in a regular campground (which he had) and insisted on going up a dirt path straight up a mountain to find him at dark.

On the way down, he moved too close to the left side of the road and we went over the sheer side in his truck, rolling two and a half times, with me praying the whole way, until we ended up propped on one side against an oak tree. The truck’s roll bar and the seat belts saved our lives. We emerged laughing in shock that neither of us was injured. A car must have seen us in the distance because it came up as we climbed out and crawled up the hill. We went down the road on the mountain as far as their campsite, where they were staying with a group of a dozen or so people associated with a truck body corporation from Virginia Beach. They offered to let us stay with them. And so we did that weekend until we could get a tow to haul out the truck.

Amazingly, we drove the truck back to Lynchburg. Once back home, he asked if he could stay at my apartment because he couldn’t face his mother since he’s wrecked the truck. He never left.

We lived together for four years, much to my parents’ chagrin and against my faith, but I loved him. During the period, he’d gotten seriously injured, life threatening, and had to go on Medicaid. If we’d married he’d have lost it and his medical bills were almost a million dollars. Once he was through with most of the surgeries, we were married.

Ted never knew a stranger and was generous to a fault. If he thought someone was in a terrible situation, he'd be there to help with is time, his elbow-grease and his money. Even if he didn't have much money, he'd give away his last dime, sure there would be more where that came from. He loved to hunt and fish, tell jokes, pull your leg and exaggerate any story. He made you laugh because of his effervescence.

Ted stayed a happy-go-lucky free spirit until the day he died, although in the last few years, health issues made him less active and more depressed. He never went a day without telling me, "I love you" and complementing me on the way I looked each morning. Although he was unconventional, we had the same values and we loved each other deeply. I will miss him forever, and his memory and the times we shared will replay always in my heart.

Interview with Amanda Ashley

2010-11-30T00:01:00.000-08:00

Amanda Ashley is an author of paranormal romance. Her newest work, EVERLASTING DESIRE, is available in bookstores, on Amazon and Kindle and from Zebra Books.

What is the name of your latest book? And how did you come up with the title?

Everlasting Desire is my latest book. It is a sequel to Everlasting Kiss. Since my hero is a vampire, Everlasting Desire seemed a fitting title, since when a vampire loves you, he can love you forever.

What is Everlasting Desire about?

My hero, Rhys, is the Master of the West Coast vampires. When an ancient vampire decides he would like to add the West Coast to his territory, he goes on a killing spree from the East Coast to the West. It is up to Rhys to protect the vampires in his territory. A new woman in his life adds an unwanted complication, but one he can’t ignore. Rhys was a secondary character in the previous book, Everlasting Kiss. I loved him so much, I decided he needed a book of his own. Everlasting Desire was recently voted best romance by USA Book News

What books have most influenced your life most?

I suppose Anne Rice’s Vampire Chronicles, since hers were among the first vampire books I read.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

I don’t think I could pick just one. Many authors have influenced me over the years, from Rosemary Rogers, who wrote the first romance I ever read, to Nancy Gideon and Maggie Shayne.

What are your current projects?

I have two books coming out back-to-back in September and October of next year – Bound by Night and Bound by Blood.

The hero in the first book is not your usual vampire. And although the book is set in contemporary times, it has a historical feel to it, as my hero lives in an ancient castle in Romania. It is a story of love and hate and revenge, and I think one of my best.

My editor liked this book and this world so much, she asked for a sequel, which I am currently working on.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Hmmm, probably “the middle”. I can write beginnings and endings all day long, but filling up the middle is always a challenge!

Do you have any advice for other writers?

I assume you mean aspiring writers. My best advice has always been to write what you love to read. To join a critique group, if possible. To enter contests for the feedback they provide. And to never, never, ever give up. My first book was rejected 31 times before I sold it.

Here's a blurb on my latest release:

DESIRE BURNS FOREVER

The clientele at Shore's clothing store includes some of L.A.'s sexiest bachelors. But none of them affects Megan DeLacey as deeply as the dark-eyed stranger who strides into her boutique one evening - and keeps returning, night after night. Megan is drawn to Rhys Costain even as she fears him. Because his reason for being there is clear -he wants Megan, with an intensity that's both tempting and terrifying...

For almost five centuries, Rhys has lived alone, using women as it pleased him and never wanting more. As Master of the West Coast vampires, it's his duty to eliminate the ancient vampire who's draining humans on his turf, putting all of their kind at risk. But Megan's lush beauty and vibrant warmth is blinding him to a danger that will soon engulf them both - and tear him from the only woman who can satisfy his darkest hunger.

Thanks for the interview, Amanda! The books sound fascinating.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

May your belly be full, your company be merry and your troubles melt away as if they were never there.

Happy Thanksgiving to all my readers!

Dragons and Romance

2010-11-24T00:01:00.000-08:00

Today's blog is compliments of Amber Kallen. Thanks for joining us, Amber.

I love Dragons. Always have, always will.

I love the fact that dragon mythology can be found in many cultures through history, spread across the globe. The question always turns to How? How did so many different people who never communicated come up with the same legends if Dragons never existed?

The dragons I write about are a mixed breed of these different cultures, with a bit of my own style thrown in.

European in appearance -- four legs, wide wings, spiked tales and horny heads. Eastern in magicks and abilities. My dragons are different colors, which in turn, sometimes means different powers as well.

The idea of magic and shapeshifting began as demonic powers in Europe, natural abilities in Native American cultures.

Over time it has become so much more.

Today, the shapeshifter is hot. Romantic and alluring.

It’s allowed authors to take their stories to such a wonderfully high level, and it seems only the beginning.

Dragon lovers abound. So what better than to make dragon shapeshifters?

I enjoy both reading and writing about them. The grace, power and protectiveness of dragons is, for me, the perfect romance.

Blurb:

When Calla, a dragon shifter, heads to a sleepy mountain town to investigate their recent arson outbreak, she doesn't expect to come face to face with the dark dragon who killed her mother, or find her destined mate beneath the burning rays of the moon. Firefighter Scott O'Neil can't fight his attraction to her, even after he finds out what she is, and the shocking secret of his own past.

Excerpt:

The Other was here.

Lowering the truck window, Calla Dragos sniffed the chilly afternoon. Pine trees, asphalt. All overshadowed by the distinct stench of sulfur. Her stomach lurched, vileness rising to choke her. As she drove into the blink of a town, it grew stronger, overpowering all other senses.

Drawing closer to the Jasper Fire Department, she focused on keeping her clammy hands on the wheel, her concentration on the light traffic. Keeping her foot on the gas pedal, rather than slamming the brakes and fleeing.

How could he be here?

It was bad enough her job as an arson investigator brought her to this small, mountaintop town of Jasper, Arizona. Bad enough she’d left her family behind in the midst of yet another argument about her independence. The possibility of facing Eric brought tremors to her body.

Parking her cherry red pickup in front of the station, Calla shaded her eyes from the late afternoon sun and searched the colorful wood-front buildings. The stench faded.

Eric marked her, then fled. Like a coward. And he was a coward. She needed to remember that fact. Otherwise, the fear coiling in her heart would drive her batty.

After a couple deep breaths, she calmed the nausea a little. She could do this. She would do this. And if that bastard decided to show up, she’d face him with all her strength.

Calla stepped from the truck on shaky legs, smoothed her navy skirt and slipped on the matching jacket. Reaching across the seat, she grabbed her oversized black bag, which held a notebook, pens and her kit. After another soothing breath, filling her lungs with the crisp mountain air, she headed around the corner to the firemen’s entrance.

Giggles drew her attention to a group of teenage girls scantily dressed. And the man they huddled near.

In nothing but low-slung jeans, the top button carelessly undone, the man gave off the rugged air of a male underwear model with a sexy, take me to your bedroom now look. His blond hair, slightly too long for a clean-cut look, dripped water, from a recent shower maybe. Or a drenching with the hose. The scruff on his chin, a shade darker than his hair, enhanced the bad boy aura.

Gods, he was just like Petey. Playboy and chick magnet, an older version of her youngest brother.

“So can we have your autograph? Please?” one of the girls begged, her voice high. The other girls giggled some more.

“Certainly, ladies.” The man’s voice was as smoky and smooth as his gray eyes.

His gaze flicked to Calla. The intensity shooting from his eyes made her tense, caught like a rabbit in the headlights. His lips twitched. A flush spread up her cheeks. Calla stared at her feet, hurrying along the flower-bordered sidewalk. Before she reached the door, the teen girls filed past, happily waving calendars with mostly naked men.

Figured. A playboy, just like Petey. Which month was he?

Bare feet filled her view. She took in the long, jean-clad legs, the scruff of hair above the gaping waistband. A blond trail led up a golden, ripped abdomen and chest, to dark eyes. This close, flecks of green and blue mixing with the gray were visible.

His scent, suntan lotion and hay, punched into her, dissipating the last remains of the sulfur.

Her libido woke and started clamoring. She gritted her teeth. Not why she was here. And besides, she had no business being attracted to this man. This human.

“Howdy, ma’am.” He tipped an imaginary hat, a lusty smile twitching at his lips.

“Excuse me,” she replied, her voice steady and cool, the payoff from years of practice working around other untouchable hunks. “I need to see the fire chief.”

Something unreadable flashed in his gaze and the smirk disappeared. “What would a beautiful woman like you want with him?”

“Frankly, it’s none of your business.” Knowing the best way to turn him off, she put a hand to her hip, jutted her chin and raked her gaze over his long, lean form. Unfortunately, her normal barriers weren’t working. The only thing she wanted to do was reach out and touch his glistening tanned skin. Instead, she added in a sharp tone, “Let me guess. Mr. October.”

His face hardened, all amusement fleeing. The playboy took a step back as if she’d actually offended him. Then, his grin came back, along with a devil-may-care shrug. “Actually,” he drawled, “I’m December. I wanted a Santa hat on my lap, not a pumpkin.” Leaning closer, his minty breath a whisper on her cheek, he added, “Why? You need a calendar?”

Interview with Tabitha Blake

2010-11-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

Tabitha Blake is a paranormal romance, paranormal suspense and short story writer. She resides in the heart of the bustling city of Houston, Texas. Passion for the written word started at a young age and has molded her into the author she is today. Her most recent project is titled Soul Extraction, a paranormal suspense with romantic elements. She recently graduated from the Stratford Career Institute. Tabby is a member of two critique groups and works closely with her crit partners to hone her craft. She believes strongly in inspiring new authors to follow their dreams.

Most of my interviews are with published writers, Tabitha is not yet. However, with her determination, I’m sure she’ll join the ranks of the published soon. Her interview is below:

If you could describe yourself in only one word, what would it be? 

Determined. I was taught you fight for what you want. Nothing worth getting is going to be easy. You have to be strong and push through the tough times, and as writers there are going to be a lot of let downs.

Name the people that you feel supported you outside of family members. 

I would have to say it’s my crit partners. I have an amazing group of ladies I crit with. They have helped pull me through the tough times, and yes, there have been times I wanted to quit. But they picked me up and dusted me off. But I believe all writers go through tough times and feel it is easier to quit but then that determination I was talking about kicks in and I am up and running again. I have to say a good support system really helps in the dark times we all face as writers.

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated? 

I have loved writing since I was very young. I aced English. I was one of the weird kids that got all excited when we were given a book to read and do a report on. I would fly through the book in a couple of days and have my report done shortly after. I spent a lot of time in the library and read like crazy. I only wish I had some of the papers I wrote in High School but most of them were kept by my teachers to use as examples for other students. So my love for writing has been a pull for many years and now is an obsession. I find so much joy in creating my characters and their worlds.

What books have influenced your life most?

C.S. Lewis’ The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe I loved that book. The story was magical. It swept me away to another time and place. It is so vivid in my mind like I just read it yesterday. As a kid I was fascinated with his vibrant world and the characters just jumped off the pages. As a child I remember reading it over and over again. I guess it is every child’s dream to step out into a magical world like Narnia. I guess it would be the equivalent of the Harry Potter series now. I think all children love the world of magic.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

Well there are a couple that have really inspired me. I would have to say Gena Showalter and Larissa Ione. Their stories take you to worlds that are fascinating and magical. They create characters that jump from the pages and you find yourself wrapped up in their joys and sorrows. I need a character that grabs me and pulls me into the story, and these ladies do that with the utmost grace.

What are your writing goals?

I am three quarters of the way finished with the paranormal suspense I am currently writing. I hit a dry spell there for a while, but it blew over, and I completed two chapters in one day. So I am hoping to finish it by the first of the year. Then it is off to the hard part-- edits. I really dread edits but it’s part of the process.

What is your most rewarding experience during the writing process?

I think it’s getting to know my characters. I start off with a character chart and then as I write they turn from one and two-dimensional characters to three-dimensional characters. I also like to find pictures of what I think my characters look like. The joy of seeing your characters come to life is amazing. By the time I am done with my ms I feel as if my characters are close friends. I know what they like and don’t like. I know how they talk and how they react to different situations. The real thrill is when someone reads my ms and they get my characters and love them. That is the ultimate rush for me. I know I’ve written them well when others love and understand them.

How does your environment/upbringing color your writing?

Well I write very strong heroines and I think a lot of that reflects on how I was raised. My mother taught all three of her daughter to be strong and independent women. I don’t think it is in my spectrum of thought to write a weak woman. I believe women should be strong and able to stand on their own. I am married and depend on my hubby to an extent but I also know I could make it on my own. Which I think makes our marriage stronger.

Describe your ideal reader.

My ideal reader would have a strong love of the paranormal. They would enjoy seeing a strong alpha male brought to his knees by an equally strong heroine. It is amazing how love can change us. My stories are fast paced and full of action. So they would need to be comfortable with a story that starts in the middle of the actions and continues through the book. I want my readers to come away feeling they are sad it is over.

After hours of intense writing, how do you unwind?

That would depend on the time of day. If it were early evening I would probably turn on one of my favorite TV shows and veg out for a while. I love shows like Vampire Diaries, Supernatural, Hardcover Mysteries, Dangerous Women, CSI, Law and Order SVU. Those are just a few. The other thing I love to do is read. A good book relaxes all my stress away. I love to read anything paranormal. I love characters like vampires, werewolves, demons, and witches. They fascinate me. I read at least two books a week. Sometimes more.

What are your current projects?

My current project is a paranormal suspense called Soul Extraction. (Heroine) Lyric is a hardened FBI agent that is on the hunt for a sexual demon that is sucking the souls from unsuspecting women. Only she doesn’t know he is a demon yet. Then she meets (Hero) Craigen a fallen angel sent to find the demon she is searching for. Of course there is a battle of wills when Craigen tries to keep her safe. She is a very strong willed woman and he has met his match when it comes to defiance. But along the way the sexual tension spikes and they find themselves trying to fight the attraction to one another. Things really spiral out of control when (Demon) Nyx decides he wants Lyric. Craigen wants Lyric to hide out while he tracks Nyx but Lyric will have no part in that plan. With mummified bodies piling up she refuses to stand by and do nothing.

Where can folks learn more about your books and events?

I have s few places they can read more about me.

My Website:
http://www.tabithablakesnocturnalnights.com

My Blog:
http://tabithablake.blogspot.com

I also run my own crit group called Enchanting the Muse.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/enchantingthemusecritgroup

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I dread the editing process. I realize it is a necessary evil, but when I get bogged down with edits, I lose my excitement for the story. I thrive on writing the first draft and figuring out the story and the characters. With all the repetitiveness of edits I find myself sick of the story. You can only read your first chapter so many times before you want to scream. LOL!

Do you have any advice for other writers?

All I can say is this is a really tough business and you have to be strong to make it. But I also think if you are persistent and don’t give up you will get there. I look at it this way being a published writer is my dream. And no one can take your dreams from you unless you let them. Believe in yourself and your writing. Find others that write and understand the trials we go through as writers. They will be the rock for you when you get that bad review or a rejection.

Here are a few quotes I keep on the wall above my desk:

“A writer who never quits is called published.”
J.A. Conrath

“When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on.”
Thomas Jefferson

“Each rejection brings me closer to publication.”
Writer’s Relief

Thank you Bobbye for having me. I really enjoyed it.

Tabitha Blake

It’s great to have you, Tabitha!

Remember to be Thankful at Thanksgiving

2010-11-22T10:40:00.000-08:00

As Thanksgiving nears, we need to stop and reflect on all the things we’re thankful for. So here are my own personal thanks.

I am thankful for friends I can count on to brighten my day, a nice house to live in and a husband who loves me and tells me so during television commercials as he’s flipping the remote control. I’m even thankful for my dog who was a goat in a previous life and ultra thankful I got to her last night before she ate hubby’s box of Ex-Lax. I’m thankful for family members who will tell me how much they love my books and wait to get them for presents only to set them on the bookshelf telling people I wrote it but who never crack the binding. I am thankful to the postman who rarely loses my mail except when it’s a letter from an editor or my new contract. I am thankful for the countless agents I’ve contacted and the nice way they say no by sending me a form letter rejecting my manuscript. Those whose e-mails didn’t get to me after several months, never fear, I know you e-mailed me, but it was simply lost in cyberspace. And to those sending me rejections by mail, I appreciate the time it took for you to put that postcard in my SASE envelope, IF it got to me because it could be one my postman simply misplaced.

There are so many blessings around us all the time like those my friends ask me to send out to my twenty friends or I’ll be cursed. I know they only mean well. After all, my true wish will become reality in twenty-four hours if I do. I also appreciate all those who send me warnings so I can avoid being mugged, defrauded or have ten years of bad luck and who forward e-mails that will win me a new computer from Dell or an IPod if I forward it, even if they don’t check Snopes.com before they sent it. But most of all, dear friend, I appreciate your taking time to read this and if your post doesn’t show up, I understand you commented, but the website wouldn’t let your post go through.

May your Thanksgiving be filled with thanks and wellbeing! And remember: No matter what genre, I always write comedy.

2010-11-19T00:01:00.000-08:00

The Pressure to Find the Right Gift

If my photo on this blog looks familiar, that's because I'm Bobbye Terry writing as Daryn Cross, my fantasy pseudonym. If you started at the beginning of the Blog Hop, you know my current hubby's present was, well, less than what every woman wants. But, before I was engaged to my current husband, I was engaged once before. That fiance loved to be outside but wasn't quite as much of an outdoorsman as my husband. We fell into a routine after we got engaged where he'd come to my apartment for dinner and dessert and then we'd go out for awhile, or not. The or not wasn't what you'd normally think, at least not all the time.

First let me give you a little background. I was in my gourmet cooking phase. I still love to cook, but back then I was obsessed with Bon Appetit magazine, had a subscription and saved all the copies. Everytime I got one, I had a big cooking extravaganza on the weekend and my fiance was always there to try the new dishes. Later I decided it was because it saved him money on groceries. Anyway, more often than not, he'd fall asleep on my sofa afterwards watching television while I did the dishes. Now do you know why this relationship didn't last?

Christmas was coming, and I had gone all out for his gift. expecting (yes, always the romantic) something I'd really love.

Here's what I got:

(In case you don't reconize it, this is what a pressure cooker used to look like before modern technology took over.)

It's Magic debuts today

2010-11-18T07:40:00.001-08:00

This is very exciting for me--first book released after my former hiatus from writing. I'm back folks!I posted everything again including the e-book buy link from Amazon. Also available currently on AllRomance Ebooks. It will eventually be out in Nook and iPad.

Can true love exist between a man who believes a woman is capable of sticking a shive in his heart while making love and a woman who is convinced men think with only one head? Maxwell Magic, an eccentric mysterious matchmaker swears it can and he’s the man to provide the stimulus to make it happen. Kasey Bell, feminist writer, and Guy McLane, radio’s famous chauvinistic psychiatrist, are his targets. Even with carefully executed plans, the road to true love is strewn with mishaps, mirth and money-hungry nighttime talk show hosts. Will Kasey and Guy risk their reputations by exposing secrets buried beneath layers of shame and self-doubt for a desperately needed big money pay-off? Or, will they claim what has evaded them their entire lives—a love that lasts forever?

Excerpt:
As Kasey followed the stagehand, Guy grimaced. Damn. Why’d she have to have sea-green eyes and be a natural, sun-streaked blonde? He was a sucker for natural blondes, she appeared to be one. Unlike his ex, Helen, he suspected Kasey Bell’s blonde hair wasn’t found just on her head.
His gaze took in her tight ass and long legs. God, what legs Some men were turned-on by big breasts. Others by asses. Not him. He was a leg man through and through.
And Kasey had the best set he’d seen in years.
Her dress clung in all the right places and was designed to make a man forget his own name. Not that it had a chance with him.
Guy studied her the way a connoisseur would a fine wine. Vintage seventy-three. He took another long, slow perusal and shook his head. He was wrong. The body on this Cabernet Sauvignon came from a perfect year. More likely a seventy-eight or if he were lucky, a classic seventy-five.
He grinned as she smoothed the sides of her dress while continuing to cross the stage on her perfectly toned legs.
Definitely still corked. She hadn’t had a chance to breathe, yet. He inhaled sharply. There was no mistaking a good mellow grape when he saw one. And when squeezed just right, the grape was memorable. One to be savored, never gulped.
No question about it, Ms. Kasey Bell was premium sipping quality. First, he’d give her time to breathe. Then he’d taste her, a little at a time, a gentle swirl over the tongue, a teasing of the taste buds.
As he continued to examine her, Guy swallowed hard. From the way her dress moved and the lack of lines, she wore a thong and thigh-high hose. Her derriere was the perfect size for his hands to cup each cheek as he pulled her flush against him. He could feel her long legs wrapping around him. And then there were her delicate ankles. They were so slim his fingers could circle them.
The whole package was enough to bring a grown man to his knees. Especially one like him who’d been alone for last three years. God, help him. Because if he didn’t, Guy knew there was no way he’d maintain his cool while seated next to her on stage.
“Dr. McLane?”
Guy snapped to attention. Standing before him were two lanky young men. “Yes.”
“I’m Josh Bell. This is my younger brother Jacob.”
Guy thrust out his hand and greeted each boy. “I understand you want to take some photos.”
“Yes, sir,” Josh answered.
“You’re our hero.”
Jacob frowned at Josh’s sharp jab to his ribs and Guy laughed. “What does your mother think of that?” He grinned as the two boys looked at each other, shrugged, then turned back to him.
“She hates it,” they said together.
“Dr. McLane, you’ve got two minutes.”
“Thanks, Al.” He turned to the boys. “We’d better get those photos taken.”
Guy started to move, then grimaced, again. Damn. He hadn’t reacted to a female this rapidly since adolescence. Back then, much to his embarrassment, all it’d taken was a slight breeze to get a reaction out of him. And at thirty-eight, the last thing he wanted was to look like a coat rack in some kids’ photos. “Both of you stand here,” he said, positioning the boys in front of him.
As Al Mack took more than a dozen photos, Guy wondered what it was about Kasey Bell that rang his chimes. They’d never met, yet he’d swear he’d seen her before.
Ah, well, he’d remember eventually. He never forgot a pair of legs, especially ones as spectacular as Kasey’s.

BUY LINK: http://www.amazon.com/Its-Magic-ebook/dp/B004CRSPXQ/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1290090245&sr=1-4

More Great News

2010-11-18T06:10:00.000-08:00

My book, Craigs' Legacy, a time travel to the Civil War period co-written with Linda Campbell as Terry Campbell, will be re-released on February 11, 2011 as a debut book by new publisher, Black Opal Books. This book started it all, though not the first one to get published, and is one that has never had the proper opportunity to shine. Love it and hope you folks will too.

Another Contest to Share Good News!

2010-11-16T07:12:00.000-08:00

Linda Campbell and I, writing as Terry Campbell, just accepted a contract for our book,Slam Sisters of Serendipty, to be released by Eternal Press! This has been an exciting fall for me, and to celebrate I will give a $10.00 gift card to Amazon to the person selected from a drawing who submits to me at the address Daryn@DarynCross.com the right three answers to these questions:

1) In It's Magic, what is Santa's real name?
2) Where does Grace Martin(not Grace Temple)find the dead body?
3) What book did I contract last week?

These answers can be found on two of my websites and my mystery blog. Addresses are as follows:

www.DarynCross.com, www.TerryCampbell.com, and www.BobbyeTerry.Blogspot.com. Clue: for the first two, check the book trailers...

Good luck and happy hunting!

Coming Soon from L&L Dreamspell

2010-11-12T15:59:00.000-08:00

Short story in Dreamspell Romance Volume 1, to be released soon. Enjoy the trailer.

After deciding she’s had enough of trying to find true love and ending up with true misery, Grace Temple takes desperate measures. She’s ready to pin her hopes on baking a chocolate seduction cake and casting a goddess spell. Maybe this time she’ll get what she really wants: Mr. Wonderful

Santa Claus and Imagination

2010-11-11T08:30:00.000-08:00

When I was deciding on a blog post for today, I ran across a mother’s blog on the Internet. I won’t mention the name and only give sketchy details. Suffice to say she’s a former follower of a faith with strong religious convictions and is now an atheist living in another country. In this particular blog, the mother mentions she doesn’t believe in telling her children either Santa or God are real. She says that because she has told them Santa’s not real and her children still have active imaginations, it proves Santa isn’t necessary. I don’t know what she’d say about leaving them devoid of faith in a divine being.

It seems one of her sons has invented a new solar system with multiple giant Earths where a special breed of carnivorous plants live with high intelligence. They have a different numeric system that goes to nine and then has three numbers they have manufactured in their native tongue. He also has invented a heat miser and snow miser who control the weather and a train miser that sends trains around the world. Now, add to that the fact this kid also invented a Pirate Santa Claus with no eye patch who has a sister with a long white beard.

Well, I formed an entirely different conclusion to this woman’s suggestion that imagination exists without Santa. In my estimation, this child apparently is trying to come to grips with a world in which two important beliefs have been taken away from him. I believe Santa Claus exists to give a child a sense of wonder when he is young and that child, hopefully, can carry that same precious wonder on into his adult life, even after he knows the Santa character was just make-believe. For what Santa symbolizes is real. As for God, well, he may not be an all-knowing being living in the sky, but in my humble opinion, God is as real as that divine spark that lives inside us and makes us have lively imaginations just like that woman’s son.

Thankfully, the little boy has chosen his own path. Maybe he’ll grow up to be a great fantasy writer.

Check out my contest on my mystery blog

2010-11-09T13:48:00.000-08:00

www.BobbyeTerry.Blogspot.com--I'm giving away a copy of It's Magic as one of the prizes just for writing a small segment of a round robin short story. Contest ends tomorrow a.m. at 8 EST.

Now that's a Mystery

2010-11-08T10:25:00.000-08:00

I read an review the other day that said most fantasies don’t have a mystery in them, and I began to wonder about that. I’m not sure that’s true, because to me it seems most fantasies have the hero/heroine searching for something. If they don’t know what it is, isn’t that a mystery? Even in my romantic comedies, the main characters are searching for a fundamental truth.

But, I have noticed as I write more straight mystery novels and turn to higher adventure fantasies, that the two become inexplicably combined in my fantasies (maybe a touch of magic even shows up in my mysteries).

In an upcoming series that I have, strange things start to happen and even the earth angels involved can’t figure out how they’re occurring. For instance, what’s going on when a car appears to have driven by itself, no driver, or when lions suddenly appear in the back yard. What’s with the huge buzzard that keeps crashing into windshields? Then there’s the mysterious question of why the main character’s mother-in-law is being guarded by an archangel.

In my latest co-written work, It’s Magic, released this month, the hero and heroine are searching for a love that has evaded them their whole lives. More importantly, they are searching for that one thing that will make them truly happy in their own skin. At the beginning, neither person is filled with wonder but beaten down by everyday life. To make matters even more interesting, mysterious things begin to happen, like everyone seemingly knowing what they’re doing all the time. How? Snakes not indigenous to the US also show up in Virginia and suddenly all the condoms are missing in Chesterfield County. Who could be behind all the mysterious occurrences they are now experiencing?

Piqued your interest? It’s Magic is available any day now. The other series I mentioned will be out late next year. You can read more about it and others on my website, www.DarynCross.com . For now, just remember that if someone says there’s no mystery in fantasy, you can ask them if they know how it will end when they begin. Not that’s a mystery.

Happy Monday!

Short story tralier

2010-11-04T12:14:00.001-07:00

My short story, 6,000+ words, is in an e-anthology just released by L&L Dreamspell Halloween evening. The trailer is below. If you enjoy and would like to read, the buy link is below.

BUY LINKS:

12 Perfect Days
Dreamspell Haunts Volume 1 (ebook anthology)
http://www.lldreamspell.com/DreamspellHauntsVol1.htm
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-dreamspellhauntsvolume1-477920-140.html

Welcome Author Jaleta Clegg

2010-11-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

Jaleta Clegg is an author of science fiction adventure, comic fantasy, and silly horror. Her newest work Nexus Point, the Fall of the Altairan Empire Book 1 is available from Cyberwizard Productions.

How did you come up with your latest title?

Nexus Point is a starting point, a beginning. This book sets the stage for the rest of the series. The Fall of the Altairan Empire is space opera, a grand sweeping tale of galactic civilizations crumbling as told by those at the crux of the crisis. I wanted a title for the first book that hinted at where the series was headed.

What is Nexus Point about?

Nexus Point says it's book one, but don't let that fool you. The book is a complete story. It's told by Dace, the main character for the series. She's been out of the Patrol Academy for only a couple of months, following her dream of owning her own trading ship. But her crew betrays her, sabotaging her ship, and stranding her on a planet locked in a feudal level of technology. The natives of the planet want to kill her because she's a demon. Drug smugglers on the planet want her dead because they think she's working for the competition. The Patrol agent on the planet thinks she's working for the smugglers. Everywhere Dace turns, people want her dead. Ever hear the phrase, "Out of the frying pan, into the fire?" That's how Dace feels as she tries to find a way to get off the planet and back to real civilization. If you're looking for a fast-paced adventure story, Nexus Point never slows down.

What books have influenced your life most?

I read just about everything I can get my hands on. I've lost track of how many books I own. There are several authors that really stand out, though. Andre Norton will always be my favorite SF author. I discovered her books when I was still in grade school. Reading them again is like visiting with old friends. Other authors that have influenced me include Elizabeth Moon, Julie Czerneda, Madeline L'Engle, Isaac Asimov, and Larry Niven. There are many, many others I could list, but those are the ones that stick out. The Bible and The Book of Mormon are the only non-fiction books I'd list. I wouldn't be who I am without that influence.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

I've had the privilege of meeting many SF/F authors through my work at conventions. Most of them are wonderful, caring people. They take time to en-courage new authors, giving a few words of advice when asked. I can't say any of them have been a mentor for me, not personally, but their example and especially their writing, have inspired me to tell my own tales.

What are your current projects?

I'm currently in edits for Priestess of the Eggstone, book 2 in my series. Lots of fun and excitement going on for Dace, who's in trouble again. I've got stories in three different anthologies. "Omega Museum", a hard SF story about the museum of the last, in The Last Man Anthology from Sword & Saga Press just released. "Always a Bridesmaid", a silly zombie story, in Rotting Tales: A Zombie Anthology from Pill Hill Press is scheduled to release any day. "The Effect of Degraded Food Supplies on Indigenous Populations", a classic vam-pire story, is in "Fangs, Vol. 1", an ebook anthology from L&L Dreamspell Press, which is due out soon. I've got more stories in the works in various an-thologies and magazines. The complete list, and links, are on my website. http://www.jaletac.com Keeping track of all of them is proving harder than I anticipated.

I'm also putting together an anthology for my publisher, Cyberwizard Pro-ductions. Titled "Wandering Weeds: Tales of Rabid Vegetation", my co-editor and I are looking for stories about vicious, nasty, evil tumbleweeds. Details are on the blog: http://wanderingweeds.blogspot.com/

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Where do I start? No, really, I struggle with beginnings. When I start a book, I have to get to know the characters, the setting, the plot, everything. It's a very stressful social situation. My characters are real. Sometimes I have to wander for several pages before the characters start talking to me. Then I have to weave it into the story. Knowing where to jump into the action is more difficult than it seems. This is why editing and rewriting are so important. I've got several trusted friends that have no trouble telling me when I miss. I want that opening to grab you and drag you into the story, plus it's got to make you care about the characters. It's a difficult dance.

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Same as what I've heard from everyone else: Keep writing. Every day. Find something to write- a blog post, a poem, an essay, a chapter, a short descrip-tion, a story, whatever you can squeeze into every day. If you're too busy to write, you aren't a writer yet. I work a part-time job, run two businesses out of my home, sew costumes and quilts, and have eight kids of my own. I write as my escape. It keeps me sane to write my insane stories. Maybe that's why I do so many silly horror stories. And adventures. I crave the escape. If one thing isn't working, I've got a million other ideas to play with.

Second piece of advice: BACKUP! Save those files often. And back them up on a flash drive or somewhere else not on your computer at least once a week. Nothing is more frightening than realizing you've just lost months of work. Keep multiple backups of every piece you write. You won't regret it. You will regret NOT doing it.

Thanks for inviting me to your blog today. It was great visiting with you!

Nexus Point: The Fall of the Altairan Empire Book 1Purchase links all at http://www.nexuspoint.info

Excerpt:
I clawed my way through thickets and brambles. I dodged past barely seen trees. I splashed through streams and tore my feet on rocks. I was lost in the woods with animals that wanted to eat me. I ran until my side ached and I couldn't breathe.

I stumbled to a stop. Grasses waved in a light breeze. Mist rose from a stream, thin streamers of white that faded only a few feet above the ground. I dropped to my knees, trembling from fear. My stomach heaved. I retched up nothing.

The grass in front of me slowly parted. I stared into a wide face of evil green eyes and huge fangs. The animal snarled, showing more teeth. I didn't have the breath to run any longer. I scrabbled through the grass until I found a big rock. I staggered to my feet, hefting the rock in shaky arms.

"Go away," I said, my voice squeaking with fear. "You aren't going to eat me." I lifted the rock to my shoulder. My muscles protested.

The creature shot a look over its shoulder, then bounded away into the night.

I let out a slow breath. Something had just scared the creature. That something would be bigger and meaner. Fear shivered along my spine. I held the rock higher, ready to throw it at the new threat.

He came out of the mist like a primeval god in a really bad romance vid–dark hair, darker eyes, and a face stolen from my most secret fantasies. He wore a leather vest with no shirt, tight pants, and tall boots. He stopped on the other side of the stream, muscles flexing as he folded his bare arms across his chest.

I swallowed hard, wondering if he was just a dream. I shifted my feet on the stream bank. "What do you want?"

A Month of Thanks

2010-11-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

The holiday season is upon us and it is a time to give thanks for all we have received. Even if this has been a tough year, as it has for me(believe me), there are things to give thanks for. Always one's position is better than many others. I am fortunate and very thankful for my friends, family, my writing buddies online and those in my chapter and as personal friends. I am also thankful and very grateful to my aquiring editor at Crescent Moon Press,Heather Howland for accepting IT'S MAGIC, Shannyn Lennihan for editing it, my editor at L&L Dreamspell, Lisa René Smith and Linda Houle, co-owner of L&L Dreamspell and graphic artist extraordinaire. I am grateful I have food to eat and a home, a husband who loves me (and I him) and a Lab who makes us laugh even when she's stealing our socks. There are many more things for which I can give thanks.

Let us help give back to those who are less fortunate than we are. Romance in the Backseat is reaching out to give thanks during the month of November, so listen up. Here is a message from Terry Kate, owner of the website:

This November Romance in the Backseat is doing a giveaway that is a little different then others online. Visitors comment and NOMINATE someone in their life they would like to thank or who is in need this holiday. We are very excited to be giving away a book a day as well as some great larger giveaways. Food. Let's face it times are hard for many people we know. So we are putting together some Edible Thanks.

Go to www.romanceinthebackseat.com for more details.

New Short Stories out in E-anthologies!

2010-10-31T14:54:00.000-07:00

Linda Campbell and I, under our pseudonym, Terry Campbell, have two stories out today on All Romance Ebooks, released through L&L Dreamspell. They will be out in other formats soon, i.e., Kindle Nook, iPad. Check them out:

"Man in the Moon,"
Dreamspell Mystery Volume 1 (ebook anthology)
http://www.lldreamspell.com/DreamspellMysteryVol1.htm
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-dreamspellmysteryvolume1-477918-152.html

"12 Perfect Days,"
Dreamspell Haunts Volume 1 (ebook anthology)
http://www.lldreamspell.com/DreamspellHauntsVol1.htm
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-dreamspellhauntsvolume1-477920-140.html

Video trailers of both are up at www.TerryCampbell.com

Happy Halloween--------from some of Daryn Cross' Critters

2010-10-31T08:47:00.000-07:00

Character Overload

2010-10-29T10:32:00.000-07:00

I was hit yesterday with a severe case of character overload. If you’re a writer, I know this has happened to you. It may even happen to a reader if you read several books at the same time. How do you do that last thing, you ask? I don’t have a clue, but one of my friends says she does, so I doubt she’s alone. Anyway, my definition of character overload is a condition in which all the characters you have, whether in books being edited, in the work you’re currently writing or who are plotted and awaiting their opportunity for the turn of your pen (or computer keystroke), begin to war in your mind for dominance.

When this happens to me, I find myself balanced on a piece of threadlike wire, hopping from thought to thought and unable to settle down and make noticeable progress in one project, ANY project. Yesterday, Editor 1 sent me a proof to go over one last time in the middle of my doing front edits for Editor Number 2. Five minutes after Editor number 1 set me the proof, a potential Editor Number 3 sent me a note saying she loves my book and please send the whole manuscript. Then there’s the proposal I just sent off to a potential Agent Number 1 re: yet another work.

I doubt I’ll ever have Alzheimer’s because my mind gets a great work out. I may, however, end up with one heck of a case of multiple personality disorder. So, as a result of all this, it’s time to sit back and entertain you with a fractured harried married writer poem, Character Uprising.

CHARACTER UPRISING

My characters are not too pleased,
With whom I’ve written them to be,
They’ve been grumbling, and they might
Form a union, go on strike.

It seems my hero thinks I’ve goofed,
By showing he’s a bit aloof,
My heroine wants to have big breasts,
Now she has a small flat chest.

The other beings moan and wail,
They claim there’s not enough detail,
And all of them agree they’re not,
Happy with my crafted plot.

My hero says that he will fight,
Until I make him more a knight,
My heroine has clammed right up.
Until she’s curvy, she won’t budge.

And as for all the rest of them,
They’re plotting wildly, full of vim
And vigor, certain they can steal,
My story, make it seem quite real.

And there I sit and cannot write
Because they finally went on strike,
Crushed, I give up, let them tell
Me how to write them so they’ll sell.

The moral of this all you see,
Is let your story be set free,
Ask the people in your tale,
To write themselves, and you won’t fail.

New interview up!

2010-10-27T12:41:00.000-07:00

Come join me at:
http://blog.JulieALindsey.com

Learn about me, my characters and more!

How to Have Magic in Life Everyday

2010-10-26T07:42:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of the book, IT’S MAGIC, there’s a short prologue in which the mysterious magical matchmaker, Maxwell Magic, speaks to the reader explaining that adults no longer believe and dream like children. He goes on to speak about everyday magic, the simple pleasure of smelling the air after a summer rain, the tingle of excitement from a cool breeze off the ocean, the delight in tasting freshly fallen snow. How do you have magic in your life everyday? Here are my top ten suggestions:

10. Don’t anticipate, be spontaneous. If you plan too much it ruins the magic. Okay, so you’re a planner. At least write down my ten things and post them on your car dash. Then, in the middle of errands etc., just do one of the things on the list (uh, don’t do it while driving, okay?)

9. Have dessert first, or better yet, go to a restaurant and just order dessert (even if you’re on a diet, once will not hurt).

8. Take a disadvantaged person to the movies.

7. Buy a book in the bookstore for someone in line, or tell the person at the drive-through, you’re paying for a latte, burger, chicken dinner whatever for the next driver. Don’t do drive-through? Drive-through anyway and pay for whatever for the person behind you.

6. Walk through the grass barefoot.

5. Read a book from a genre you’ve never read before.

4. Go on a picnic lunch (Too cold? So? Dress warmly and have an insulated carrier—OR have the picnic lunch inside on the floor.

3. Meditate outside for twenty minutes (the quieter the place the better).

2. Go on a long walk or a bike ride.

1. Spend a night at home with someone special and no television or computer.

You’ll be surprised how much better you feel after you break from your routine and see life through a brand new set of filters. It is, after all, magic!

Happiness and Hope

2010-10-24T14:49:00.000-07:00

One day a few years ago when things weren’t going all that well, I wrote a poem and sent it in to an inspirational poetry contest and, to my surprise, it won first place and $100. I went on to publish it in a very thin book of poems, but afterwards, that poem appeared periodically on sites where people were in some kind of emotional distress. Years after, yet another poem I penned began to show up, once on an alcoholics anonymous site and again to go with a photograph by a beginning professional photographer. I began to think God does use us in mysterious ways. And so today, dear friends, I launch these out again for you and anyone who can use happiness and hope.

HAPPINESS

Happiness comes when you least expect,
It dances like ripples on life’s rejects,
It twinkles in fog on a crisp cool day,
It sparkles in the wink of a single sunray.

Happiness comes from deep inside,
You learn what’s important and follow your guide.
It comes with love that’s freely supplied,
It’s never confused as a product of pride.

Happiness grows when you give it away,
The more that you give, the more you can save.
Happiness comes when you simply give in,
To the power of the Savior living within.

HOPE
Based on Romans 8:24

Hope is the boat we sail,
Through trouble’s rough, high seas,
It saves us from the winds,
That threaten constantly.

It’s something we can’t see,
Still, we wish for that one thing.
It’s there, but we can’t feel
With hands the light it brings.

It’s what we’ll have for life,
Yet, never will we hold,
But through our times of strife,
Its power will be bold.

And hope’s great final gift,
To those who patiently
Do wait until its time,
Will be eternity.

Guest Blogs

2010-10-22T10:42:00.000-07:00

I have two separate blogs today on other blog sites, courtesy of Skhye Moncrief and Christine DePetrillo. Please come by, say hi and leave a comment!

Chris DePetrillo, www.APinchofRomance.Blogspot.com

Skhye Moncrief Jones, http://blog.skhyemoncrief.com

Daryn

I Have a New Cover!

2010-10-21T07:22:00.000-07:00

The publishers say this book, co-written by L.J. DeLeon and me, will be in electronic format prerelease in a few days. I'll let you know when and announce a special promotion.

Magical Critters

2010-10-18T11:02:00.000-07:00

Ah, there’s nothing like a pet. Advertising professionals will tell you puppies and kittens sell products, just like babies and small children. If that’s true, then perhaps many writers are losing a valuable opportunity by not including a pet in their novels.

I am an animal lover, so you’ll usually find a pet in mine unless the hero and heroine are in the middle of a dystopian world. I couldn’t stand to hurt a pet in the middle of battle and chaos. In my latest release IT’S MAGIC (from Crescent Moon Press and co-written with L.J.DeLeon, November 2010), the heroine has an aging Chocolate Labrador Retriever. Here’s an animal I know something about. My husband and I have owned three, all with very different personalities, but each one lovable, people pleasing gremlins who think they’re far smaller than they are and want to sleep on your lap. Murgatroid, the dog in IT’S MAGIC, is fairly easy-going except when someone invades his territory. He has a habit of s***ting in shoes if annoyed, as the hero finds out, to his discomfort.

In a true fantasy where the majority of the characters are magical, what types of pets should there be? In my Book of the Beginning series, yet to sell, the heroine of the first book, Honey Blood Draper, has a dragon, thankfully only a miniature breed, who will only mature to about one hundred plus pounds. Cinder is a comical feature on her own, as she trails after the heroine just like a dog will. But, beware if she sneezes, fire in the hole! In my second book, the heroine has a pigmy pterodactyl named Pee-wee. Protective just as Cinder is, Pee-wee makes a high pitched noise when warning his mistress and grows exponentially when he needs to protect her.

What animals are in my angel series, WALK RIGHT IN and WALK RIGHT BACK will be released in fourth quarter 2011 and January 2012, respectively by L&L Dreamspell? Well, in the second book, my heroine has a Siamese cat named Merle. Merle is a magical angel kitty who can speak and is a member of Ms. C’s (Ms. C is the Creator) Feline Intelligence Agency. She can disappear Cheshire Cat style, and the kitty-angels have a guardian angel protector, CATerine.

Authors are only limited by their imaginations by the pets they can make up in their fantasies. I’d love to hear about some critters you’ve read about or any you’ve invented as a writer. Please weigh in.

Bye for now,
Daryn

IT'S MAGIC Release November 2010

2010-10-16T07:40:00.000-07:00

Here's a description of the story line:
Can true love exist between a man who believes a woman is capable of sticking a shive in his heart while making love and a woman who is convinced men think with only one head? Maxwell Magic, an eccentric mysterious matchmaker swears it can and he’s the man to provide the stimulus to make it happen. Kasey Bell, feminist writer, and Guy McLane, radio’s famous chauvinistic psychiatrist, are his targets. Even with carefully executed plans, the road to true love is strewn with mishaps, mirth and money-hungry nighttime talk show hosts. Will Kasey and Guy risk their reputations by exposing secrets buried beneath layers of shame and self-doubt for a desperately needed big money pay-off? Or, will they claim what has evaded them their entire lives—a love that lasts forever?

Excerpt:
As Kasey followed the stagehand, Guy grimaced. Damn. Why’d she have to have sea-green eyes and be a natural, sun-streaked blonde? He was a sucker for natural blondes, she appeared to be one. Unlike his ex, Helen, he suspected Kasey Bell’s blonde hair wasn’t found just on her head.

His gaze took in her tight ass and long legs. God, what legs Some men were turned-on by big breasts. Others by asses. Not him. He was a leg man through and through. And Kasey had the best set he’d seen in years.

Her dress clung in all the right places and was designed to make a man forget his own name. Not that it had a chance with him.

Guy studied her the way a connoisseur would a fine wine. Vintage seventy-three. He took another long, slow perusal and shook his head. He was wrong. The body on this Cabernet Sauvignon came from a perfect year. More likely a seventy-eight or if he were lucky, a classic seventy-five.

He grinned as she smoothed the sides of her dress while continuing to cross the stage on her perfectly toned legs.

Definitely still corked. She hadn’t had a chance to breathe, yet. He inhaled sharply. There was no mistaking a good mellow grape when he saw one. And when squeezed just right, the grape was memorable. One to be savored, never gulped.

No question about it, Ms. Kasey Bell was premium sipping quality. First, he’d give her time to breathe. Then he’d taste her, a little at a time, a gentle swirl over the tongue, a teasing of the taste buds.

As he continued to examine her, Guy swallowed hard. From the way her dress moved and the lack of lines, she wore a thong and thigh-high hose. Her derriere was the perfect size for his hands to cup each cheek as he pulled her flush against him. He could feel her long legs wrapping around him. And then there were her delicate ankles. They were so slim his fingers could circle them.

The whole package was enough to bring a grown man to his knees. Especially one like him who’d been alone for last three years. God, help him. Because if he didn’t, Guy knew there was no way he’d maintain his cool while seated next to her on stage.

“Dr. McLane?”

Guy snapped to attention. Standing before him were two lanky young men. “Yes.”
“I’m Josh Bell. This is my younger brother Jacob.”

Guy thrust out his hand and greeted each boy. “I understand you want to take some photos.”

“Yes, sir,” Josh answered.

“You’re our hero.”

Jacob frowned at Josh’s sharp jab to his ribs and Guy laughed. “What does your mother think of that?” He grinned as the two boys looked at each other, shrugged, then turned back to him.

“She hates it,” they said together.

“Dr. McLane, you’ve got two minutes.”

“Thanks, Al.” He turned to the boys. “We’d better get those photos taken.”
Guy started to move, then grimaced, again. Damn. He hadn’t reacted to a female this rapidly since adolescence. Back then, much to his embarrassment, all it’d taken was a slight breeze to get a reaction out of him. And at thirty-eight, the last thing he wanted was to look like a coat rack in some kids’ photos. “Both of you stand here,” he said, positioning the boys in front of him.

As Al Mack took more than a dozen photos, Guy wondered what it was about Kasey Bell that rang his chimes. They’d never met, yet he’d swear he’d seen her before.
Ah, well, he’d remember eventually. He never forgot a pair of legs, especially ones as spectacular as Kasey’s.

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2010-10-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

Get Your 2010 Santa Claus Postmark - TriStateHomePage.com