2008 Gaylactic Spectrum Awards - Leigh Ellwood title shortlisted

Gaylactic Spectrum Awards
PO Box 73602
Washington, DC 20056-3602
info@spectrumawards.org
http://www.spectrumawards.org/

For Immediate Release
January 29, 2009
Contact: Rob Gates


Washington DC: -- The Gaylactic Spectrum Awards Foundation is pleased to announce the winners of the 2008 Gaylactic Spectrum Awards. The Gaylactic Spectrum Awards were created in 1999 by The Gaylactic Network, the premiere organization for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) fans of science fiction, fantasy, and horror (SF/F/H), to honor works in SF/F/H that deal positively with gay characters, themes and issues. The independent Gaylactic Spectrum Awards Foundation was created in 2002 to manage and further the mission of the awards, which is to educate and raise awareness of GLBT content in SF/F/H. Nominations for the Gaylactic Spectrum Awards are open to everyone. Winners and a short list of recommended works in each category are selected by a jury. The 2008 Awards were presented in three categories – Best Novel, Best Short Fiction, and Best Other Work - for works originally appearing in calendar year 2007.

The novel selected by the judges as the best science fiction, fantasy or horror novel with significant positive GLBT content from 2007 was Wicked Gentlemen, by Ginn Hale, published by new independent publisher Blind Eye Books. This atmospheric novel combined unique fantasy elements with theology and mystery and incorporated complex emotional and relationship content between its two main characters. This was author Ginn Hale’s first novel, and the first title published by Blind Eye.

The work chosen as the winner in the short fiction category was Ever So Much More Than Twenty by Joshua Lewis from the anthology So Fey, available from Prime Books. This story of a man’s realization that middle age does not preclude the magic of love from one’s life was rich and sweet. Much like the Best Novel winner, this was the author’s first published story.

Other novels recommended on the judges’ short list were Daughters of the North, by Sarah Hall (Harper Perennial); Ha’Penny, by Jo Walton (Tor); Hero, by Perry Moore (Hyperion); Hex, by Darieck Scott (Carroll & Graf); Ink, by Hal Duncan (Del Rey); Lady Knight, by LJ Baker (Bold Strokes Books); Spaceman Blues, by Brian Francis Slattery (Tor); Vintage, by Steve Berman (Lethe Press); and three novels by Elizabeth Bear – a first for the awards – Dust (Ace), New Amsterdam (Subterranean Press/Far Territories), and Whiskey & Water (Roc). Short Fiction short list titles include three additional titles from the So Fey anthology – A Bird of Ice by Craig Gidney, Charming: A Tale of True Love by Cassandra Clare and Ruby deBrazier, and The Coat of Stars by Holly Black; four titles from the anthology Alleys and Doorways from Torquere Press – The Reflection of Love by Julia Talbot, Side Effects by M. Decker, The Steel Anniversary by Valerie Lewis, and Were by JoSelle Vanderhooft; Bittersweet, by Steve Berman (Endicott Studios); Dancing on the Head of a Pin by Kiernan Kelly (Torquere); Dividing the Sustain by James Patrick Kelly from the anthology New Space Opera (Eos); The Healing by Leigh Ellwood (Phaze); Medusa’s Touch by Catherine Lundoff from the anthology Crave: Tales of Lust, Love and Longing (Lethe Press); and Prime Suspect by K S Augustin (Total-E-Bound). These recommended works show remarkable variety in content, tone, publishing house size, author experience, and genre.

In the Best Other Work category – for works that do not fit in either of the two other categories - the judges identified the following recommended works: the comic book series 52 by Greg Rucka, Grant Morrison and others (DC Comics), the comic book series Buffy Season 8 by Joss Whedon and others (Dark Horse) and the comic book series Y The Last Man by Brian Vaughn, Pia Guerra and others (Vertigo/DC); the television show Torchwood (BBC) and the special episode of the television series Battlestar Galactica, Razor (Universal/Sci-Fi Channel); the films Socket (Dark Blue Films) and Stardust (Paramount); and the anthologies So Fey: Queer Faery Fiction edited by Steve Berman (Prime Books) and Alleys and Doorways edited by Meredith Schwartz (Torquere Press).

The 2008 Gaylactic Spectrum Awards were presented at Gaylaxicon 2008 in Washington DC on October 11, 2008 at a banquet celebrating ten years of award winners. Winners in the Best Novel and Best Short Fiction category receive physical awards and a cash prize. The 2009 Awards will be presented at Gaylaxicon 2009 in Minneapolis MN in October 2009.

For more information about the Gaylactic Spectrum Awards, including a complete listing of all nominated works from 2008, a handout listing winners and short list recommendations with brief descriptions, or to nominate works for the 2009 Gaylactic Spectrum Awards, you can visit the website at http://www.spectrumawards.org/ or send email to info@spectrumawards.org.

Gaylactic Spectrum Awards
PO Box 73602
Washington, DC 20056-3602
www.spectrumawards.org

Curious about the Chocolate Social?

A Valentine's Chocolate Social w/15 authors on Saturday, February 7 from 2-6:00pm at Borders, 1600 South East Road, Farmington, CT 06032

There will be door prizes, a meet and greet, Q&A, readings, games and snacks [including lots of chocolate goodies :-)].

The 15 authors are:

Stella Price

Jessica Andersen

Marie Force

Cat Johnson

Tilly Greene

Allie Boniface

Annette Blair

Isabelle Santiago

Emily Bryan

Denise Eagan

Toni Andrews

Donna Michaels

Leigh Ellwood

Kristan Higgins

Kathryn Smith

Shall be a great time - hope to see you there!

Tilly Greene
WARNING! Red hot romances ahead!
www.tillygreene.com

Anastasia's Style by N.J. Walters

It’s amazing what a woman can do with a good set of pearls and the right attitude.

Anastasia Style, owner of Hassle-free Holidays, is having anything but a hassle-free Valentine’s Day. Her normally reliable car has a flat and she has a delivery to make for a last minute, lucrative client. And if that wasn’t enough to make a woman crazy, she still has to make it to her lawyer’s office in time to sign her divorce papers.

She just has to set the stage for her client’s romantic evening and then she’s off to her lawyer’s office to officially end her marriage to Mason Style. Except her client has other ideas about how Anastasia will be spending her evening, and he has no intention of ever letting her go.

Anastasia’s Style is available from Ellora’s Cave Publishing.

Metamorphose by J.J. Massa

`

Cool cover by B. Maxwell

The Romance Studio and TRSBlue are my favorite stops when I’m checking out reviews and seeing what’s hot. When I first began to write, I didn’t even realize there were review sites. I started out at Amazon.com and then discovered Fictionwise. .

Now, I have books that show up here. Cool, huh?

Of course, I haven’t been writing that much lately. :/

Still, I wanted to talk about Metamorphose today. It’s available at Linden Bay Romance.

The “universe” is set in is a place called Porta, California which happens to also be a mystical fault—sort of like a convergence of ley lines that acts as a gateway or magical magnet. The American branch of The International Worlds Museum can be found there. I based it loosely on the British Museum, just so you know.

The International Worlds Museum has a branch wherever there is a place like Porta, but is staffed by talented people trained in London, where the first such museum was established centuries ago. Most, though not all, of the staff have supernatural abilities of some kind. I love that because it opens so many possibilities. Nothing is impossible when magic is involved. In this story, people can travel between worlds—though it’s no easy feat. The entire premise of The International Worlds Museum is that almost anything is possible and that pretty much everyone is extraordinary, no matter how ordinary they seem.

I hope you get the idea—if I go on and on about it, I might just confuse myself. LOL A little about the characters…

Leena is in her mid-twenties. She’s from Chicago and kind of lost touch with her working-class family. Nothing nefarious, just life and growing up. Her parents are normal, very normal. The just weren’t nearly as exciting as college or rich English friends…

Rand is from the hard part of London. The rough neighborhoods. But he’s taught himself, though he never lost touch with his parents and how hard it was to be different when being different wasn’t a good thing. He liked being a part of the museum and moving to America. He was a natural when it came to running his department and teaching his interns how to control themselves. Though he never married, he was more than satisfied with his lot in life, much like his boss, Paul Stoddard. Well, he was satisfied except for one thing…or one person, that is.

Wynn is a work in progress. A very well put together work in progress. He’s young, fit, smart, and getting tougher every day. He’s got a twin sister he’s crazy about, an new nephew that he has every intention of raising as his own, and two people he’s fallen hard for. That’s one too many for most people…he’s not sure if it’s more than he can handle.

Those three, along with almost everyone they know and work with, have supernatural talents and have been exposed to a much wider world than most people. It keeps life interesting, to say the least.

Some of these folks were based on my daughter and her friends and co-workers. (She works at a coffee shop.) It’s kind of fun to include them. It makes it all personal, really. I’d tell you which one she is, but that would spoil the whole thing.

Click on the title there for the link for Metamorphose at Linden Bay Romance (well, either link will do) The first excerpt, along with the summary, can be found there. I’m going to put a little extra excerpt here—something steamy. After that, I’ll post a little excerpt from the next in line: Epoch. Epoch will have two couples—one m/f and one m/m—besides that, it’s got some different –ish things going on there. You’ll see.

But that’s the best part of writing this kind of story—it can be completely “out there” and still, it’s magic. You gotta love that.

`
Metamorphose excerpt--ADULT:

`
Rand leaned down and brushed his lips over Wynn’s. “I love you, Wynn. Have done since the minute you walked out of the museum and left me with a very fine bottle of Scotch…possibly before.”


Wynn’s eyes filled with tears as he looked from one to the other. “I don’t know what to say,” he rasped.



“Don’t say anything,” Leena slid up on the bed beside his hip taking his hand. “Let Rand do his hocus pocus and then we’ll try to get you out of here. How’s that?”

Don’t mind if I do…


Rand leaned over him, finding acquiescence in his eyes. Without another word, he laced his fingers with Wynn’s, carefully avoiding the IV lines. Leaning down, he touched foreheads, cupping the back of Wynn’s head with his free hand.


Dimly aware of Leena sitting on the bed beside Wynn and holding his other hand, Rand tilted his chin forward covering the other man’s mouth with his own. A nip at his lower lip and Wynn opened, giving Rand full access to taste and explore. A hazy current seemed to blanket the three, drawing heat, urgency, electricity to the surface.


At first, Leena seemed nervous, unsure. As the crackling energy wound around them, Rand began to feel the three way connection build. Leena’s small hand found its way to Rand’s shoulder, rubbing him gently as she held onto Wynn.


Wynn was kissing him back hungrily, need in every panting breath. Rand’s hand slid down the thin hospital gown covering Wynn’s chest, meeting Leena as together they pushed the sheet to his knees. Though her movements were slightly unsure, the young woman was committed, actively a part of their shaky triad.



Pulling the flimsy gown up out of the way, Rand stroked along one toned thigh and over Wynn’s flat abdomen. At twenty-eight Wynn was firm and muscled, a banquet for the eyes. Since living in Los Angeles, Wynn had gained a light tan. Coupled with jet black hair and eyes the color of a vibrant lapis, Wynn was a beautiful man. Rand had always thought that, even when his hair was short, slicked back, his dress code was prim and they had argued the better part of every day.

Still holding Wynn’s left hand, Rand slid his free hand around and pulled the tie on the annoying gown, tugging the thing away without looking up. He kissed and nibbled his way down Wynn’s neck to his clavicle, nipping and biting as he went. Wynn tugged at his hand, without releasing him, the long fingers found the button at Rand’s waist and yanked, taking some of the pressure off of his own rigid erection.

`
A choked gasp told him that Leena had found Wynn’s hardened cock. She reached out, taking
Rand’s left hand and pulled it down until both their hands wrapped around the throbbing flesh. Heat and energy surged around and through them as Wynn arched under their grip.

`
Leena mouthed her way up Wynn’s body, stopping at a tight, flat nipple. She sucked and nipped, her gaze colliding with Rand and then flicking away, down to the hot cock they held. Rand groaned, leaning in, his tongue running up the large vein underneath. Wynn moaned and shifted, bucking slightly into the wet heat.
`

Still holding Leena’s hand underneath his, Rand sucked Wynn’s throbbing length into his mouth and swallowed around it. Twisting and arching, Wynn lost control, filling Rand’s mouth with his salty release.
`

One look combined with Wynn’s even breathing told him that the younger man had passed out.

--------------------------------------------
Okay, now a short excerpt from Epoch. This isn’t adult…it just is what it is. :)

`

`

“You don’t have to follow me around you know. I know where I’m going.” Denis was more than a little disgruntled, not to mention embarrassed. The last thing he needed was Paul Stoddard’s drone tagging along behind him.
`

“Look, Mr. Stoddard told me to go with you and then bring you back. That’s what I’m going to do,” the other man replied with a long-suffering sigh.

`
Denis stopped in the middle of the deserted corridor and whirled to face William. “Bugger off,” Denis growled. “I don’t need an escort or a babysitter.”
`

The younger man stared at him for long minutes and Denis was certain that he intended to argue. Finally, William turned and walked away.
`

Denis expelled a relieved breath, pivoting toward the hall that would lead him down to Receiving. He was so absorbed in his thoughts that he didn’t notice the tall, pleasant looking man until he was nearly on top of him.

`

“Now, now, that wasn’t very nice,” the other man purred. While he couldn’t tell how old the newcomer was, Denis knew himself to be younger.
`

“That’s as it should be then,” Denis stated, attempting to move around the other man.
`

“Rough morning?” The stranger tilted his head just a little. A slight smile curled his lips as he extended a hand to shake. “Allow me to introduce myself—Madoc White.”
`

Ah, yes, Madoc White. Some kind of super-sorcerer or something.

`
“Denis Anderson.” He shook the other man’s hand briefly.
`

“Yes, I’ve heard your name from Paul, haven’t I?” Madoc mused. “You do freelance work—right?”

`
Denis studied Madoc closely. He was tall, slim, fit looking, but dark. It wasn’t hard to imagine this man menacing and dangerous. For now, he seemed amused by Denis and somewhat jovial.
`

Denis felt sure that he didn’t need the attentions of Madoc White. He preferred to keep a low profile. He wasn’t a friendly person by anyone’s standards and had no intention of turning over a new leaf today.
`

“I have no idea where you might have heard my name but yes, I do some freelance work for Mr. Stoddard.” Now go away… patience had never been a strong suit and Denis had other things on his mind. Yes, he’d sent Stoddard’s little sycophant on his merry way, but the old man would still be expecting him in short order.
`

“Receiving is right through there,” Madoc helpfully provided, a casual sweep of his arm indicating a marked door.
`

Denis refrained from rolling his eyes, but only just. With a sharp nod, he made his way through the door, pulling it closed sharply behind him. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Anyway, that’s just a bit of the story. I think it’s actually going to be pretty long. We’ll see how it goes.

`
Stop by my site if you get time- http://www.jjmassa.com/ or check out what Cosmo has to say (http://cosmosweblog.blogspot.com/)

It's Never Too Early to Celebrate Valentine's Day

The TRS Goddesses smiled down on me and gave me another blog spot this month, since February is already filled. No wonder. I’m sure we’ll be reading lots of posts about romantic trysts and scorching-hot Valentines! It’s not even February yet, but since the stores are already overflowing with sentimental cards and heart-shaped candy, I thought I might as well jump in with a Valentine’s tale of my own.

Valentine’s Day is, hands down, my absolute favorite holiday. Every year, I look forward to it more than Christmas or my birthday. (No kidding!) I’ve never had a bad Valentine's Day. I know, I consider myself lucky. That is not to say that every single year, I've had the love of my life sweep me off my feet and romance me with candy and flowers and Tiffany jewelry. LoL In fact, I can remember one particular Valentine's Day that really should have been the absolute worst for me.

I was 20-year-old college student... young and optimistic and a hopeless romantic. (Hmm, that still describes me, except for the young part. ;-)) My boyfriend of two years or so had just graduated Northern Arizona University and moved away. He decided it'd be better if we didn't consider ourselves dating--but we could be “friends.” (Yeah, whatever!) Of course, my heart was broken. I mean torn to shreds and scattered to the wind bro-ken. With Valentine's Day looming on the horizon, I could barely keep from crying at work or when I was out with my friends. I’m even ashamed to admit that I skipped class numerous times to huddle in my mother’s office, crying my little broken heart out. Being the saint that she is, my mother put up with my crying jags. Repeatedly.

When Valentine’s Day rolled around, a really cute guy who frequented the deli I worked at asked me out for dinner. I knew I should have been overjoyed by the invitation and accepted it with a renewed sense of hope at the chance to heal my shredded heart, especially with such a nice guy. But… I turned him down. As romantic as it might be to tell my future children, "Your dad and I had our first date on Valentine's Day," my heart just wasn't in it and I decided to stay home.

Around six-thirty, as I was sitting on the sofa in my apartment, my roommate having already left for his romantic evening (which I knew I'd be hearing later through the thin walls... ugh), there was a knock on my door. When I opened it, there stood my dad.

With a heart-shaped box of candy and an invitation to dinner and a movie.

I don't have to tell you the waterworks that ensued. I mean, how sweet is that?? Of course, I couldn't turn him down, no matter how miserable I was. My mom was waiting in the car and the three of us had a wonderful dinner at my favorite restaurant, and then it was off to the movies. A real tear-jerker--Always, starring Richard Dreyfus and Holly Hunter. I sobbed (as quietly as possible) through the entire movie, but it was one of those good kind of cries. And the next day, I felt... cleansed. Optimistic and hopelessly romantic all over again.

Dad's never had to rescue me on Valentine's Day since then, thank God, but he's still my hero!

I hope you all have a wonderful, beautiful Valentine's Day filled with love--from everyone in your life!

All my best,

Calista

CONTESTS!!! Check 'em out here -- www.calistafox.com
www.calistafox.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/calistafox

I hated the first romance novel I ever read.

Hated it. I don’t remember the author or title. I was fifteen and found this old Mills and Boon in a pile of stuff that came, I think, from my grandmother’s house. It was from a time when romance novels were written entirely in the heroine’s point of view, and as a person she was largely subservient to the hero. She sprained her ankle and basically waited around tearfully for the hero to decide she was worthy of his love. The book confused me—why would anyone want to read this? And it made me angry—women aren’t like that! I wouldn’t marry that guy if he was the last man on earth! I swore I’d never read another book of its type again.

Fortunately, I found another book about a year later that had a more modern take. I admit, I picked it up because the couple on the cover were in a passionate clinch (this was before I knew I should be embarrassed to be seen reading a clinch cover romance novel :)) and I was curious to see if the book would teach me something. Did it ever. It taught me that not all romance novels are equal or alike. It taught me that I loved getting into the hero’s viewpoint, that the heroine could have a cool job (in this case photographer) and that she could make decisions about her own life and body without a man’s permission or approval. And it taught me that sex could be enjoyable (high school health education classes hadn’t left me with a positive impression), and that a woman wouldn’t necessarily go to hell, get pregnant or contract a venereal disease if she did it before she was married, as long as she was discriminating and knew what to do with a condom.

Some people might say that this was dangerous knowledge in a sixteen year old’s possession, but I disagree. I was well beyond sixteen before I ever had sex, so romance novels certainly didn’t make me promiscuous. If anything, they made me more discerning because I wanted a guy who loved me like a romance novel hero. I wanted what Aretha wanted, R-E-S-P-E-C-T baby. It wasn’t until years later that it occurred to me I could try and write a romance novel, but once I did I was hooked. And these days I want the same thing I wanted all those years ago—respect. Respect for my chosen profession, respect for the effort I put into my writing, and above all respect for romance as a genre. That last seems to be the most difficult thing of all to attain, as derogatory comments and attitudes remain rampant amongst the general population. Unfortunately, there are still people who pick up their first romance novel, find it lacking for whatever reason, and dismiss the entire genre as poorly written trash. Imagine if I had done that? I shudder to think.

So even though I hated my first ever romance novel, I’m here before you today at the brand new TRS Blue blog a published author of romance fiction. Erotic romance fiction, which is NOT porn, but that my friends, is a soapbox argument for another day.

Do you remember your first time? When did you decide romance was the love of your life?

Feel free to visit me anytime at my website or blog to find out all about me and my available books. Leave comments, drop me an email, don’t be shy. Have a great day and keep reading!

Sami
Sugar and spice and all things nice...
Chasing Sunset Available Now from Samhain Publishing

You don't screw with the Muse!

Hello everybody!

Since this is my first time blogging at TRS Blue, I thought I would tell you a little bit about how I came to write these saucy stories. Not too much info, mind you. A girl has to have some secrets.

Anyway, there I was a historical/paranormal romance author minding my own business, when, after I'd sold my first mass market contract and then been honored with two 4 star RT reviews and a double RITA nomination, I found myself without a new contract and slogging through a sub-genre that had practically disappeared over night. What I noticed right away was that my former publisher was still buying books like crazy, but they had turned almost totally to erotic romance and pure erotic women's fiction.

I was shocked! Not because I doubted the these spicy stories would fail at the marketplace. I've been around, like on the internet and stuff. I'd known erotic literature was out there. I'd heard whispers about it for awhile. Truth be told, I'm not one of those folks who object to hot love scenes, long steamy passages, or books with more than half naked men on their covers. To each, her own, said I. One of my friends, who also debut with my former publisher, has written several erotic stories that are just awesome. So, hey, it's pretty cool, if you ask me.

But, me become an erotic romance author?
Never!

Or, so I thought.

Turns out, my muse had other ideas, spiteful witch that she is.

Let my introduce you to Thelma, my muse.

She's really what you would consider a 'broad.' She looks like a 1960's version of Lucielle Ball, right down to her died red roots, bless her heart. She has a voice like Thelma Ritter and usually perches herself on my desk while she chain smokes Lucky cigarettes. (Anyone younger than 40 can look up these things in Wikepedia, btw)

Oh, and she's very opinionated. She laughs like two hens cackling and when she's excited her voice goes up an octave and she sounds like fingernails screeching across a chalkboard.

Anyway, one day I was lamenting on how everyone else was selling and I wasn't. I mean, hey, it's not fair! (Unlike everything else in life, like death, taxes, me spending 48 hours in labor with my children, ect...)

Thelma got tired of my bitching all the time.

"Why are you so upset?" she asked. "If you want to sell like the erotica authors, then write a damn erotica!"

Of course, I argued (whined) that I didn't think I could. I mean, I'd written love scenes, sure. But, a whole story?' I didn't have the first clue how to write erotica!

But, Thelma wouldn't let it rest. She fussed at me, nagged at me, literally bugged me daily about writing erotic fiction.
When I complained the loudest, she told me the very wisest thing I had ever heard.

"Look inside yourself, dearie. The story is there. You just have to open yourself up to it."

And I did just that. A couple of weeks later I completed the first draft of "Ride A Cowboy," which soon developed into a series. The fourth installment, Roped And Tied, is due to be released from Cobblestone Press, www.cobblestone-press.com, on 2/27/2009.

It's the story of a down on his luck cowboy, Wade MacReynolds, who needs to contract water rights from his neighbor, the hard hearted brothel madam, Lily Barnett. He needs to keep his cattle alive long enough to get them to auction. Convicted of a bank robbery he didn't commit, he faces 18 years in prison if he can't pay restitution for his alleged crime.

But Lily has been hurt badly and is tired of being used by men, so her terms are wildly different. She agrees to give Wade the water he needs if he will pleasure her in bed one night a week. Her intentions to control their tryst backfires and Lily finds herself in lust and love with the strong willed cowboy.

As I write this, I'm working on Wade and Lily's 5th and final story, Branded. Fear not, though, because ever since I had it in my mind to finish this series, Thelma has been hard at work pestering me to write about Lily's best friend, the older and far wiser Marie, and her trysts with a certain New Orleans riverboat gambler. Oh, also about Lily's brothel girl, the terribly scarred young prostitute Sadie, and her late night visits with Wade's long time friend, Gus.

I have to admit, I've learned a few surprising things about myself. First, as a writer you have to leave yourself open to try new things in order to discover just what you're really capable of. And second, you don't screw with the muse. She'll get you every time.

Happy Reading!
Pam

P.S. Leave a comment and tell us about your muse, too!

Cheers!
Pam

Let's Talk About the Kilt!

The kilt can be traced back to the late 16th Century, maybe even earlier, and was worn in the Highlands. Then a dark period fell across the northern portion of Scotland with the Act against the Highland Dress of 1746, and further measures taken in 1747. These measures were meant to force Highlanders into setting aside what separated them from the rest of the kingdom, namely their kilts. This didn’t last long. In 1782, these laws were overturned and the kilt could be worn again. Only times had changed, the kilt began to evolve and continues to be altered for the current generation.

Despite the interesting history of the kilt and how it doesn’t mind moving with the times, I know you all just want to know one thing: what do they wear underneath?

The short answer is nothing was worn beneath the tartan. In the past, this was easier to deal with than it is today. The most detailed accounts of this interesting phenomenon is found in historical reports from the battlefield where Scottish soldiers were known to throw off their plaids and fight naked. For men of the military, tradition states that unless they were going someplace where dancing would be involved or on parade where high winds took place in view of women and children, they go without.

Could it be this is where the term “going commando” comes from? In Scotland, the military states that it isn’t a rule or dictate, but more of a desire to follow a cultural tradition when a soldier chooses to wear no underwear. They call the practice to “go regimental” or “military practice”. Hmmm, looks like they are one and the same to me.

More civilians are wearing kilts to various functions. For them, it’s more of a common sense thing. Taking a walk along a loch, they probably won’t wear anything. Dancing at a wedding, where they leap and jump around, maybe they won’t as they are with family and friends. However, going to the bank during a howling gale, most likely will add some briefs or boxers.

Next time you ask a man who is wearing a kilt, what he’s wearing beneath, you have a better idea of what the true answer is. If you’re looking to put the question out there to a few people, then go out and enjoy National Tartan Day. In the US, the next on is on April 6, 2009.










Hamish Buchanan, after a tragic birth, is considered the son of Scotland, except he has a secret. All he has to do is trust Grace Strachan and the life he wants will be his. Except, for him, this is something easier said than done. Highland Heat is a shape-shifter erotic romance with a bit of bondage involved and is now available from Ellora’s Cave.

Enjoy!

Tilly Greene
WARNING! Red hot romances ahead!
www.tillygreene.com

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Tilly Greene’s Hot Thoughts Blog

Logan turned her into his embrace, this time bringing Libby’s arms up so that they wrapped around his neck and they were flush against each other. Her small sound of satisfaction could barely be heard above the music filtering through the room. Only she didn’t care who heard her.

Before she knew it his hands smoothed down her back until they came to rest upon the curve of her hips. Her nipples became taught against him, aching with tingling pleasure. They moved against each other as one. Logan’s breath stirred her hair at her temple; her nose was against his neck. She closed her eyes, savoring the moment between them, wishing for more.

“You smell nice.” Libby nuzzled her nose into the warmth of his flesh, just beneath the curve of his ear. Something wild surged through her, prompting her into sinking her teeth into his flesh in a tender love bite. “Don’t taste bad either.”

A shudder racked Logan’s body, followed by a growl. His hands smoothed over Libby’s bottom, bringing her up against him roughly. He put his mouth on the side of her neck.

Shivering uncontrollably, Libby tried to control the racing of her heart, but the moment she came up against Logan’s hard body she was lost. Her senses exploded into a kaleidoscope of tingling sensation when she felt his mouth on her, then his teeth, and finally his lips and tongue as he focused on a spot just beneath her ear. She tried to speak but the words wouldn’t come.

“This feels damn good,” he surprised her by saying in a slightly gruff voice. “It’s been a long time since I’ve been able to feel anything other than pain.”

Libby pulled back slightly, meeting his eyes. “I’ve seen your scars, Logan; it’s obvious you were hurt very badly. Yet I have a feeling they’re nothing compared to what you’re suffering inside.”

She watched his eyes flare briefly before masking it with reluctant resignation. “Maybe someday I’ll answer the questions simmering in your eyes, but right now I just want to enjoy this moment. Is that too much to ask?”

“You’re running, Logan.”

“I’ve been accused of that before.”

Libby could tell by his tone that he didn’t like her observation. “Sooner or later your past is going to catch up with you, and then what? You can’t continue dodging—”

“Libby…”

“It’s not healthy. A therapist might help you. I had to see one once, after witnessing a horrible car accident. I was ten and my parents thought I was traumatized. I probably was but you… Oh!” Without warning Logan took her by the hand, pulling her off the dance floor. “Where are we going?”

“Someplace private,” was his brisk reply. He fairly dragged her toward the exit. Seconds later he pushed the door open and they stepped out into the warm darkness. “Where’s your car?”

They paused briefly just outside the door. Her car? The parking lot had been full when she arrived, forcing her to park at the back beneath a flickering light. Libby’s eyes automatically glanced in that direction and suddenly Logan was pulling her behind him after obviously spotting it too.

“What are you doing?” she asked in a breathless tone, trying to keep up with his long strides.

“Nothing, yet,” he responded, not breaking stride until they reached her car.

Before Libby could catch her breath Logan halted and turned until he was leaning against it. He pulled her sharply against him. Her head snapped back and her mouth opened with surprise. “What…” She couldn’t think of anything else to say at the moment, totally enthralled with the wolfish gleam reflected in his eyes beneath the lamp post.


print and ebook offered at Whiskey Creek Press Torrid
Tory Richards
Romance with an Attitude

Some Like It Hot… And Some Like It HOTTER!

Clearly, I’m the latter. ;-) Give me something a little wild and wicked, and I’m all over it! Hence my excitement when I couldn’t quite figure out what I wanted the cover of my latest Ellora’s Cave release to look like. Devil’s Kitchen is a steamy vampire story, but it’s also about a very strong, independent woman. So kudos to the EC cover artists who captured the heart and fiery spirit of the story! (On sale now at www.ellorascave.com)

Here’s a little bit about the book:

Heiress Kristina Hartland thinks she’s about to suffer a fate worse than death when her father attempts to marry her off to her childhood nemesis. But Kristina knows nothing of the real troubles that await her…

Using every seductive means of persuasion, she hopes to convince her sexy bodyguard/secret lover, Roman D’Angelo, to rescue her from the terrible fate. Roman will do everything in his power to keep Kristina out of another man’s arms—and bed. But he’s a renegade vampire who defected from his brother’s coven over two hundred years ago. And his past has finally caught up with him, putting Kristina’s life in grave danger.

In order to save her, Roman must reveal his dark nature to Kristina. And risk losing her heart in the process…

***********

I’ve got a few contests going on that you can you check out on my website. I hope you’ll stop by! www.calistafox.com. In addition, members of my newsletter are automatically entered into random contests—you can be a winner, too, if you’re a subscriber! Sign up on my website!

Truth, Dare, or Handcuffs or Threeway Available Now at www.loose-id.com

My latest release is now available at Loose ID. It is a menage m/f/m (no m/m scenes), mixed in with a little suspense. It's two stories in one. I hope the readers enjoy my latest. :-)

Truth, Dare or Threeway
Nicholas, half owner of Faso Security, sets a plan in motion to bring himself closer to his human resources manager, Vanessa. He traps himself in the elevator, along with his partner, Benito, and Vanessa, and suggests a game. It's his plan to get Vanessa to reveal the truth of her feelings and Nicholas will do anything to win Vanessa's heart.

Benito, half owner of Faso Security and best friend to Nicholas, shares his love for Vanessa. He only wants to woo her, give her time to get used to the both of them before making their move. But Nicholas isn't as patient as he and he hatches a plan that will shed all of their inhibitions, paving the way for their threesome affair.

Being stuck in the elevator with two gorgeous men isn't a good thing. With the air conditioning out, the phone not working, and her bosses half naked, Vanessa agrees to play a game of Truth or Dare. The stakes are high as clothes are shed, and a three-way as hot as a furnace reveals the ultimate truth.

Truth, Dare, or Handcuffs
A proposition that went wrong. That's how Kane Strong would describe the night he'd made a threesome proposal to his lover of ten months, Rain Forester. That same night, she packed up her clothes and left without one word. Now that she's back in his life and needs his protection, Kane isn't going to let her go so easily.

Her departure tore them apart. For ten months, Rain lost herself in the only man she's ever loved. Until his partner, Costas Montero, started spending more time at their place. The way he watched her when Kane wasn't around unnerved her. But it wasn't until Kane suggested a ménage that she left. Now both reenter her life to protect her from a stalker, and she's forced to confront her feelings head on.

Costas's last assignment is done, and he's sent to team up with Kane on a mission that has his insides twisted into knots. He lost Rain before he ever got the chance to get close. And being around her without touching her would drive him insane. But he'd do anything to protect her, even if it meant watching her with his partner instead of having her for himself.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse, ménage (m/f/m, no homoerotic content).

To read an excerpt, CLICK HERE

And for another excerpt CLICK HERE

I also have an exciting contest going on right now.

January and February contest: For a $20 gift certificate from Loose ID, send your name and a valid email address to jadejamesprizes@yahoo.com
One entry per person, and one winner will be chosen by February 27!

And TRS is giving away a free copy of my latest release at their Book A Day Give Away. So head on over there for more information.

Thanks for viewing. And any comments are always welcome at msjadejames@yahoo.com

Fiction for the Indecisive

I was scanning the blog's entries for the past couple of weeks, and right now, because the blog is new, we're first-timers here. Everyone has introduced themselves in various ways, and today I'd like to introduce a different first -- the first interactive romance from Red Sage Publishing.

Have you ever read a book and wished something different had happened? Have you ever wanted to tell the heroine what she should do, which man she should choose?

Well now, with my latest release from Red Sage Publishing, you can!

Megan's Choice is an erotic romance novella with a twist--not that kind of twist, either, although it's plenty hot. It's structured like those choose your own adventure novels from the 80's. At the end of each scene, the reader gets to decide which path the heroine, Starship Pilot Megan Malone, will follow.

Here's the official blurb:

Megan's Choice by Ellie Marvel


Ebook release: January 2009


Ebook ISBN: 9781603102780


From: Red Sage Publishing



Megan Malone, the quadrant’s fastest zip ship pilot, is overworked, overtired and craves the surf, sun and sex of a paradise planet vacation. When her employer receives an urgent commission from the government requesting Megan’s services on a diplomatic mission, she’s all set to refuse--especially when she finds out her domineering ex-lover Yusef Gunnen will be part of that mission.

But what Megan doesn’t know is that she’s no longer calling her own shots. You, dear reader, are calling the shots. And what you decide Megan will do at the end of each episode will change her life forever.

Right now I'm hosting a contest on my website where the winner will win not only a free download of Megan's Choice but a handmade gnome charm, guaranteed to fend off evil spirits. What do gnomes have to do with starship captains, erotic adventures, and diplomatic missions?

Absolutely nothing! But I gave visitors to my blog the choice of a gnome charm and a crocheted robot to supplement the download, and they picked the gnome. Go figure!



If you're interested in branching fiction novels, you can read some excerpts from Megan's Choice at my site. You can also visit the website www.gamebooks.org, which has a ton of information. Here's a link to their list of "romance" gamebooks, though most aren't new releases like Megan's Choice is: http://www.gamebooks.org/show_category.php?id=32

And since this is TRS Blue, here's a link to their "erotic" list: http://www.gamebooks.org/show_category.php?id=93 It's quite a bit shorter than the romance list, but that's because most of these books were written for children, not adults.

Megan's Choice is definitely for adults. I really think the electronic format lends itself to interactive fiction. I hope you'll give it a try and let me know if you agree!

Jody W. w/a Ellie Marvel
Megan's Choice -- Choose Your Adventure!
http://www.elliemarvel.com * http://blog.jodywallace.com

Celebrate Sexual Freedom: Read or Write an Erotic Story

Happy Inauguration Day, U.S. residents! An election season is always full of excitement, anxiety, and reminders of the freedoms. I’m usually a little out of touch with the world but I can’t fail to notice the election season energy around me. I live in the Washington, D.C. region so I’m sure you can imagine how…freedom-vibey it is around here.

Maybe I’m a little strange—maybe it’s cabin fever as the winter really settles in—but all this celebration going on? Makes me want to throw a party for sexual liberation.

Could you imagine? Goodie bags stuffed with miniature vibrators and sexy silky undies, exotically rich chocolate, sensually fragrant candles, miniature journals waiting for your deep dark fantasies. Or even better, a book for you to enjoy.

I love that I can write sex. Sweet sex, flowery sex, dirty, kinky, angry, paranormal sex…anything I want, anything my imagination can create. It’s wonderful to own the right of creation; even better, the right to enjoyment.

I’m a newbie here at TRS Blue, but I knew the moment I stumbled across this blog that I had to be part of it. Every day here is a celebration of pleasure, every reader and writer indulging desires. I indulge mine through writing and reading and sometimes I wear a smug little smile, gloating because I get both sides of the fun. If you’ve never written a naughty scene, I urge you to try it: put yourself in the moment and liberate a fantasy of your own. You might discover something new about yourself, something new to celebrate.

When the heroine of my newest release, Jesse’s Hands, takes a journey of similar intent, she uncovers a part of herself she never knew existed. Maybe her story will inspire you to find your own.

My next scheduled day here at TRS Blue isn't until the last week of February but I hope you'll visit me elsewhere between now and then...maybe come tell me all about the freedoms you've been celebrating.

Best,
Emily Ryan-Davis
http://www.emilyryandavis.com

Free At Last!

I'm very pleased to have my blog day scheduled on the holiday celebrating the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As an author with titles featuring alternative and interracial romance, I can identify somewhat with "the dream" for equality of all races and creeds, with the hope that nobody will be judged by the color of his/her skin, religious beliefs, or sexual orientation.

In the spirit of this day, I'd like to share a few words of wisdom, a nifty video, and invite you all to come to Phaze Books to experience the latest Coming Together anthologies. Coming Together: At Last features two volumes, with an introduction by NYT bestselling author L.A. Banks, and interracial romance and erotica by Bridget Midway, Aliyah Burke, Saskia Walker, Andrea Jackson, Jolie du Pre, Sacchi Green, J.M. Jeffries, Alessia Brio and Will Belegon, and many more.

Coming Together: At Last

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.' I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at a table of brotherhood...

Let freedom ring. And when this happens, and when we allow freedom ring—when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children—black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics—will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual: "Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!" - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Hephaestus Lays Down the Law by Tilly Greene is OUT!

Being one of the powerful twelve Olympians, God of the Forge and Master of Fire, meant his life was pretty good, but Hephaestus knew it could be better.

Work was going well, unfortunately his wife was cheating on him, and he can't take it any longer. Known as an even tempered god didn't mean he couldn't start a war.

This particular skirmish is personal, between he and wife. If he wins, then he keeps everything, including his heart intact, but if he loses, then he'll walk away from Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, for good.

Could he really walk away from the most beautiful woman to ever exist?

"Hephaestus Lays Down the Law" is now available at All Romance eBook [ARe].

Newbie First Post - Handle with care

I'm Kayelle Allen, and have five books with Liquid Silver Books, two with Shadowfire Press, and on 2/17/09, I'll release the first of a trilogy with Loose Id, Surrender Love.

However, I've been a featured author with TRS since April 2004 and plan them into my advertising budget every year. Orange, who holds the terrific chats here, has become one of my dearest friends. Holly has been a lifesaver for me with deadlines and the issues all authors face. She's marvelous and TRS wouldn't be the same without her. Tina is the Guru and Goddess of TRS, and I bow before her in humble awe. How she manages to do all she does and still have a personal life is beyond me. I could take lessons. In fact, I wish she'd give some! ^_^ In fact, everyone here has been exemplary! Stephen, you are incredible and have saved my behind many times. Finding a site with fees I can afford, so many options to promote, and such an amazing staff was a pleasant surprise. TRS Blue or regular TRS knocks my socks off!

So who am I? If you're a regular reader here, you haven't seen my name posted before. Fortunately, TRS had a great sale at the end of the year to give Featured Authors a chance to buy into more options than ever before, and one of those was blogging once a month. So you'll see Kayelle Allen around the 16th of every month. There are two where I'm on the 18th or 17th, but otherwise, this date will be mine. I'll give you a better intro in just a second.

Those readers who know me - here's news I've been dying to tell you. I saw the first draft of the cover last night for Surrender Love! It's by the incomparable Anne Cain, who allowed me to use her name in the book Alitus, Tales of the Chosen. In it, Wulf and Alitus meet secretly in Anne's gallery, Yutai Art. You can visit her Tarthian Empire gallery by clicking on the name. BTW, if you felt sorry for Luc at the end of Jawk, or conversely, you were pissed off with him, (lol) you'll be glad to know scores are settled in Surrender Love.


Okay, for those new to me, Surrender Love (out 2/17/09 from Loose Id) continues the story started way back in 2004 with At the Mercy of Her Pleasure, with the young thief Senth Antonello. That book led to a continuation about the hero's brother, Khyff, in For Women Only. Next came a trilogy called Tales of the Chosen. In the background of all the books, manipulating players and public alike, are the immortal Sempervians. The immortal Luc Saint-Cyr was Senth's adoptive father, who also taught him the exalted trade of being a thief. In the Tarthian Empire, thieves have a union (the Guild) and rankings are earned by studying with others more advanced. They, in turn, gain points for mentoring the newbies. No thief level fifteen or above can be arrested if they're working under contract. Union thieves who are arrested have union-paid lawyers, as well as better food, private cells, and are not housed with the general population. Luc Saint-Cyr's students have been hassled a few times, but none have ever been arrested.

When Luc felt comfortable turning over training of his youngest Deshai, the progidy, Senth, to the Guild (years before his story is told in Mercy), Luc retired and went into business. His first business was For Women Only - a protection service for female celebrities. Later, Luc hired Senth's brother Khyff to work for him there and trained him personally in everything from table manners to running the day-to-day business of managing a tour for a rock group. Eventually, Luc purchased other businesses, and since he was immortal and had actually set up many companies during previous lives, he was able to absorb them with little difficulty. In less than ten years, he was the most influential businessman in the Tarthian Empire, and hands down, the richest. He was also close friends with another Sempervian, the Conqueror, Empress Rheyn Destoiya.

Each book reveals another piece of the secrets all the Sempervians hold, and in Surrender Love, the deepest, innermost secret Luc has hidden for 3,400 years is finally revealed.

Each book can be read on its own - but reading them all gives a much larger picture of a comprehensive plot that will cover many books. Jump in anywhere, purchase the next book that interests you, and go on from there.

I must tell you about the two books I have at Shadowfire Press. Each is a standalone. The Last Vhalgenn is a reprint from A Time To... the Best of the Lorelei Signal Vol. 1 My short story, The Last Vhalgenn, was one of the stories in the volume. The book was a 2008 EPPIE Finalist in Fantasy, and came from Wolfsinger Publications. The other book at Shadowfire Press is a Christmas Anthology which I shared with Sultry Summers. The book is called Naughty is Nice, and had a gorgeous picture of a blond elf in front of a Christmas tree. Barechested, the elf is dangling a pretty Christmas ornament on one finger, and in his other hand, he holds a giant candy cane, which he's licking.

Wulf, Tales of the Chosen, and At the Mercy of Her Pleasure are also available on Amazon.

To read excerpts of all my books, see covers, and find puchase links, visit my book page on http://kayelleallen.com

I also invite you to join Romance Lives Forever, my yahoo group. This is where news is blasted first, I have guest authors, impromptu contests, and general chaos reigns. *_* Come over and join us by clicking the name.

See you all next month!

Excerpt from Carolina Valdez - Gay Best Seller - Hole in One

“I understand it’s an old Spanish custom to bring a gift. My compliments.” Greg handed him a tall, brown sack.

River smiled as he withdrew a bottle of Shiraz. “Gracias, amigo. You may visit me anytime.”

Greg watched strong fingers uncork the wine bottle with practiced skill and decant the dark ruby, almost purple liquid into a glass without disturbing any sediment there might be. He handed the glass to Greg, who swirled the wine and sniffed its bouquet before tasting it. “Hmm. I think the vintner who sold me this was right. What do you think?” He offered him the goblet.

River accepted the glass and repeated the ritual.

When he drank, Greg noticed he placed his mouth where Greg’s had been, and he watched the dark wine touch lips meant for kissing.

“Perfecto.” Rio handed the glass back and poured one for himself.

Greg lifted his glass. “Salud.”

“Salud.”

Greg started to bring his glass to his mouth, but River interrupted him by pulling Greg’s hand through River’s arm so when they drank their arms were entwined. As they sipped, their gazes met like a bride and groom at their wedding reception. The gesture sent Greg’s blood swimming. When River set his glass on the counter top, Greg put his beside it and stepped toward him.

The kiss was inevitable. Greg just hadn’t known how soon it would happen. He’d thought sometime after dinner, but now he wasn’t going to wait any longer to act on his longing to be with this man. Time was too short and not to be wasted any longer. Who knew how long they would be together this time?

River didn’t back away. He leaned in. Their lips met, pressed and slid, sharing the full-bodied taste of the wine. Greg didn’t know which of them opened first, but soon their tongues had invaded to explore and delight in the warm moisture inside. The intensity of the kiss heightened into deep pressure and a frantic tangling of their tongues.

“Take off your shirt,” he murmured against lips puffy from their kisses.

A trembling River yanked his shirt up and over his head. He reached for Greg’s and almost ripped it off.

Greg wrapped his arms around River’s neck, and River slid his around Greg’s waist and pulled him close. Greg inhaled the masculine scent and paused to enjoy the tingling that began where their nipples touched, but the soft brush of fine dark hairs across his chest sent flaring, churning need through to his core. “I want to touch you so bad I can taste it. I don’t want to share you tonight. I want you all to myself.” Greg rubbed his swollen cock against River’s and heard a responsive groan from deep in his throat.

“Then touch me.” River took Greg’s hand and slid it inside the front of his workout pants until Greg reached the warm, satin skin of his cock and closed his hand around it. He felt the tie on his shorts loosen and the slow slide of those and his briefs over his hips and thighs. Releasing River and breaking the kiss, he stepped out of his thongs and free of the shorts.

River stood with his eyes closed as Greg tugged River’s pants and boxers all the way down and off his bare feet. Greg stood and looked at the solid, magnificent man before him, his swollen cock jutting out, with juices dripping from the slit in a head the color of the Shiraz.

With a groan, River reached for him, and Greg stepped into him, his right leg between River’s legs where it would trap his balls, just as his were trapped by River’s. Their wet cocks, primed for love, were hard against the other’s hips. Hands behind Greg’s head, River captured his mouth again and plundered it while Greg clamped his hands on his lover’s butt and locked them tight together as they rubbed harder and harder, taking fierce, hungry pleasure in each other’s bodies.

Shutting out everything else, he focused on River’s velvety skin, on River’s tongue inside his mouth and the feel of his bones as Greg rubbed against them with all his strength. Chest against chest, bare thigh against bare thigh, caught up in a sensual world of sex and pleasure, he unleashed his passion and took all, gave all to his hot Latin lover as desire set his blood boiling and then drowned him in a tsunami of heat and feeling...

Carolina Valdez

Searing passion and the sweetly delicious ecstasies of love

BUY HOLE IN ONE
WEB SITE
MYSPACE

Research Equals Vitality

If you're writing historical novels, research's importance is a given. In my experience, no matter what I'm writing, research sparks my story to life.

As I mulled over ideas for my romantic thriller Silk Stealth: Shadow Warrior, which was to involve rock and roll in some way, I stumbled on a television special on the incredible Burj al-Arab (Tower of the Arab) Hotel in the United Arab Emirates' city of Dubai. I'd found the destination for Stealth, my American rock band! You can see the Burj in the lower right corner of the cover below. It's designed to resemble the billowing sail of a dhow, an Arabian ship.

I realized Stealth would travel to Dubai to participate in a benefit to provide a cardiac transplant center for children. That came out of my experience as a student nurse, when the first heart-lung machine on the West Coast arrived in the medical center where I was training.


As I checked out books on Islamic Dubai and rented a DVD about it, I discovered it's considered the second wealthiest city in the world. Great fodder for romance! Delving into the history and culture of the UAE and its cities, I found Moslem Internet sites extremely helpful.

In contrast, Hole In One, a gay sports story, required an easier kind of research. I've played golf and watched tournaments on TV, still, some details sent me to the rule book or to the phone to speak with someone at a PGA West course. The disqualification of a male entrant in this southern California story was based on an actual episode with a woman golfer competing in Canada. In my novella, it eliminated the major threat to my main characters. If I hadn't known about the Canadian event from TV news, I'd never have thought of it for my story, but here was another detail that sent me to the rule book and the telephone.

Since I'd decided Rio "River" Vargas would be from a restaurant-owning family in Madrid, Spain, there was the challenge to find out about its foods. Spain's attitude toward gays was another issue I needed to resolve.

For me as a writer, whether I'm penning fact or fiction, it's the research that broadens and enriches not just my work, but my life.



AVAILABLE NOW FROM AMBER QUILL/ALLURE


During the days, they were fierce nineteen-year-old rivals in a collegiate golf competition, but at night, their passion sizzled under the sheets. When Team USA won, Rio “River” Vargas returned to his native Spain, and Greg Thorenson headed back to his home in the United States. When Rio didn’t respond to a letter he sent, Greg wasn’t sure if his silence was because Greg had beaten him for the win or because their affair had only been a four night fling.

Now, professionals at the height of their game, they meet again as competitors in a major tournament in the California desert, where the prize of thousands of dollars is at stake. It’s been six silent years since those wild, hot nights as young men. Maybe for Rio that earlier passion had been an experiment, an aberration of who he really is and of whatever Greg may have meant to him. But to Greg, that earlier passion had been something deeper…he had fallen in love.

Upon seeing Rio again, Greg is torn between ignoring the past or re-igniting the banked embers of emotion to see where they’ll lead. But can he risk it? If Greg opens himself to love, and also wins this tournament, Rio may very well walk out of his life a second time…

Carolina Valdez

Searing passion and the sweetly delicious ecstasies of love

BUY HOLE IN ONE
SHADOW WARRIOR EXCERPT
WEB SITE
MYSPACE

A Day In the Life...

I had so wanted to make a great impression here on the TRS Blue blog. I have wracked my brain for the last couple of days trying to come up with something fun and interesting, have bugged my friends for an unmistakably cool blog topic, but, when it all came down to it, here and now, all I've got is...I'm sick. It's just a winter cold and it's just starting out, but, that's neither here nor there. I'm sick; cold all the time (which has nothing to do with the temp outside being 30something), tired (which has nothing to do with 5:30am rise and shine time), and the stuffed up head (which in and of itself is truly annoying).

So, I'm sick. And guess what? The writing doesn't care that I'm sick. The writing, the things that must be done sits there and waits, rather impatiently I might add for me to drag myself out of bed or off the couch, fill up on chicken soup and oranges, and write. If I don't, it will dog me in my sleep until I do. (It is a little more forgiving with migraines, but not much.) Writing is my friend, my lover, my slave driver, and my demon master. But, I wouldn't have it any other way. Not really.

I need to write. It's something I've always done and now that I've had a taste of what it's like to be published, of seeing what I've created put out there for everyone to see...it's like a huge rush of confidence and fear all rolled up into one. It's potent and it's breathtaking and I love it, need it.

And so, despite being sick today, and not having a cool post (like the one about running a motel...that was way cool, far and above so...)I will write. I have a story to turn in tomorrow and goals to meet for turning in other stories by the end of the month. I have edits looming and more stories to turn in for the rest of the year.

I love it. There are days that I hate it and love it at the same time. I would rather be curled up in bed still, watching sappy movies and napping, but reader comments like the one that said 'WOW' and the other one that said 'I've fallen hard for your style of writing'...they keep me sitting upright in the chair while the writing brandishes my favorite flogger and we get to work...

Thank you, TRS Blue for having me.

~lissa

I Resolve...

As a general rule, I don’t make New Years resolutions. At least not loud enough for anyone to hear them.

Of course, every year I decide to lose weight, get in shape, organize my hard drive…you know, the same things I resolve to do every year. To me, making a resolution is passive. It’s like wishing really hard for something to happen. It’s setting myself up for failure.

Instead, I prefer to set goals.

I like setting goals, it sort of like a challenge to yourself…a contest. And if you don’t meet your goal, well, you can roll it over to the next week. After all, it’s a goal, not a solemn resolution.

Setting goals gives you a map to follow. When you accomplish your short term goal, you are walking towards the success of your mid-term goal, and your mid-term goals carry you along even further. At the end of that road is your long-term goal, whether it’s writing a book or getting a contract or losing weight.

So you want to write a book. Today, your goal is to write one thousand words. This week, your goal is to finish a chapter. This month your goal is to get past chapter three.

Every goal met is a small victory that leads to the next. But you can’t complete your journey without taking your first step. It takes a lot of courage to put that long-range goal in writing, but that is indeed the first

Best of luck in your goals for 2009, whatever they may be!

Look for two new releases in January!

• IMPERATIVE: SAVING YOU Releases at Changeling Press January 15: http://www.changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=1065

• SOUL KEEPER: Coming soon to www.newconceptspublishing.com

www.belindamcbride.com

www.belindam.blogspot.com

Their First Time...

“Can you take it rough?”

His comment inflamed Maggie. She made an attempt to respond, but the only sound that came out was a pitiful whimper. She wanted him to kiss her, wanted to feel that firm, masculine mouth on hers as he devoured her lips. But she sensed he was using every ounce of strength he possessed to hold on to his control. There was no disguising the state of arousal he was in. Could she push him over the edge?

Did she want to? The answer was yes. She spread her thighs and arched the lower half of her body against his, shocked at her boldness. They’d only met the day before and she wasn’t in the habit of sleeping around. Yet that didn’t lesson the fierce desire coursing through her. She watched the pupils in his eyes dilate. He thrust back, his erection slicing between Maggie’s thighs and over the swelling bud of her arousal. She cried out, bit down on her bottom lip and clenched her thighs together, entrapping him.

He lowered his face and Maggie was certain he was going to kiss her. She caught her breath, meeting him half way. As soon as Matt’s mouth touched hers he seemed to lose control. Growling low in his throat, his passion forced her deeper into the bed. The stubble on his face heightened the pleasure of his rough kiss, and Maggie opened her mouth eagerly to his thrusting tongue.

Ohmigod! Fire replaced the blood in her veins. She was aware of nothing, yet aware of everything at the same time. Her hands began to roam over Matt’s hard muscles with growing ardor, encouraging him to do whatever he wanted. She felt her heart pounding out of control, very attuned to where his hands were slowly roaming. Her breasts swelled in his palms, aching with pleasure. His thumbs flicked over her nipples, causing Maggie’s hips to twist out of control. Her body was demanding he make love to her. And she thought she was going to get her wish when his caresses glided over her body with mounting aggression.

Oh! Before Maggie could brace herself his hands closed over her hips and he began to pull her sharply against his erection. He felt huge and hot sliding over her wet crotch, the friction causing her desire to build to an unbearable level. His mouth left hers to travel down her throat and over her shoulders, leaving a trail of wet heat against her flesh. Moaning with desire, Maggie arched her back when Matt’s mouth burned a searing path down to her breasts, suckling her taut nipples through the material of her thin nightgown. Suddenly it seemed like his hands and mouth were everywhere at once. Demanding, satisfying, hungry for more.

All at once he jerked back. “I want to feel your hand on my cock, Maggie.”

His rough comment set her blood on fire. She worked her hand between them until reaching her prize. Her hand enclosed the satin encased steel, and her eyes widened, meeting his. She’d only guessed at his size before. Oh my! She soon discovered by running her hand up and down his torrid flesh that Matt didn’t lack in length, either.

He lost control for a moment, closing his eyes and groaning deep, thrusting into her hand. A shudder racked his body as Maggie tightened her grasp. She couldn’t remember a time feeling so hot and hungry. And the flesh pulsing in her hand would more than fill the need in her. Then she pulled him close and ran the tip of his dripping penis over her wet mound. His eyes bolted open.

“Damn!” His hand moved beneath her short gown to her thong, tearing the fragile silk away from her body with an easy tug.

Her breath caught, and before Maggie was able to recuperate Matt moved abruptly to his side, dragging her with him. He pulled her close to his body, arranging their position so that his penis was nestled between her thighs. He thrust gently, as though enjoying the friction, but didn’t enter her like Maggie yearned for him to do. Moaning with hunger, she arched her buttocks into him, silently encouraging him to take her. She couldn’t bear the teasing any longer.

“Oh, God…please!”

“Tell me what you want.” He mouthed the words against her neck, his warm breath sending a rivet of pleasure through her. “Tell me where you want me.”

Didn’t he know? Couldn’t he tell? She’d never had to vocalize during love making before. “Make love to me, Matt. It’s been so long…” Maggie let her words trail off, moving suggestively. She could feel his hot flesh at the very gates of her womanhood, teasing her mercilessly with long strokes of pleasure. “Please!” She felt her orgasm building and gasped for air.

Matt shuddered behind her. He moved, and Maggie wasn’t aware of what he was doing until she felt his hand against her backside, moving downward. The next thing she was aware of he was guiding his flesh to the opening between her legs...


Tory Richards
Buy it here
Romance with an Attitude Blog

Review by Dark Angels Reviews 4 Pixies!
...Tory Richards weaves a compelling tale of love lost and found
between a woman who has every reason to fear men and their emotions
and a man whose heart has been too terribly burnt.

Want to experience Highland Heat?

How do you know when to trust someone with a secret held for a lifetime?

Title: HIGHLAND HEAT
Author: Tilly Greene
Author URL: www.tillygreene.com
Genre: Shape-Shifter Erotic Romance – Bondage
Release Date: Now Available
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Publisher URL: Ellora’s Cave


Blurb

On the surface, Hamish Buchanan has it all and because of the horror surrounding his birth, he possesses the love and respect of the entire Scottish nation. But underneath, where few are allowed, lurks a secret. Although well hidden, the furtiveness needed to keep others from discovering it, also keeps him from committing fully to another.

One night, he discovers there's a part of him that thinks he's hunting something, or someone. Unable to shake the odd feeling, Hamish doesn't put it all together until he sees Grace Strachan, only then does he begin to understand what’s going on. He's in season and she is his mate.

Establishing trust with another has never been easy, but Hamish must find a way with Grace or risk losing her forever, and that simply isn’t an option.


Scorching Excerpt

“We aren’t compatible,” she said without thinking.

“I think we are.” There was no hesitation about him or his belief in his claim. The complete assurance he possessed that they’d be together turned her on even further.

“Hamish.”

“Shhh, trust me, everything will be fine.” His tongue reached out and traced the slightly parted seam between her lips.

She wanted to believe him, but couldn’t.

“How do you know? I might like, well, something different.”

Different, that was putting it mildly. Hamish Buchanan was well known throughout Scotland and the world. His reputation was impeccable, never a bad word mentioned about him personally or professionally. The tabloids painted him as a gentleman, a gentle attentive lover, who had a problem with commitment. She never heard or read so much as a hint that he was into playing sex games like the ones she enjoyed. That kind of information would be worth a pretty penny to a woman who felt jilted and had been left behind.

The man was powerful and controlling, the side of him that attracted her most, and she seriously doubted he’d ever pushed it to the limits while in the bedroom.

When he paused in his sweet seduction and looked at her with confusion on his face, Grace could have kicked herself. Did it really matter if they had a delicious bout of vanilla sex? He had her quivering with need since last night. Honestly, at this point in time, she wanted him any way she could get him.

She blinked, ready to tell him it didn’t matter, when a naughty grin graced his face. He appeared even more confident than he had before. It was as if he knew he had the means to ease her needs.

“Listen to what I have to say, then be truthful and tell me if my needs don’t meet with yours.”

Was this man ever not entirely sure about something? All she could manage in return was a small nod and waited to hear what he had to say. Thankfully, he didn’t need any more input from her to continue his sweet seduction of her mind and body.

“I want you in my bedroom, stripped of everything except for a pair of these high heels you’re wearing and sheer black stockings. After that, I’ll strap you onto a spreader bar, something to keep your stance wide and ready. This way I can see, touch and play with your delicious wet pussy. And trust me, you’ll be dripping. Your arms are secured to another rod for me to position you for our pleasure.”

She groaned, wanting what he offered without any further delay. Did he read minds? How was it possible that he knew what she liked?

“Maybe this bar will hold you bent in half, placing you in the perfect position to suck on my cock with your beautiful mouth. Or so I can fuck you from behind. It could be your arms are stretched far above your head—”

“Stop!” Grace called out with a rasping voice. “Please, Hamish, stop talking.”

Copyright © 2009 Tilly Greene


Link to ebook at Ellora’s Cave


By the way, Hamish Buchanan himself is opening up about his secret on the Wild on Books Blog [http://blog.wildonbooks.com/] and will be interviewed by Alyssa Brooks[http://www.alyssabrooks.com/] on January 13th in her Slip Between the Sheets column. If it's Scotland you want to know more about then in January's Lady Jaided, Ellora's Cave eZine [http://www.ladyjaided.com/feature2.html], how the Scots celebrate New Years is featured and the kilt will be the focus of a TRS Blue Blog [http://trsblue.blogspot.com/] article on January 26.


Tilly Greene
WARNING! Red hot romances ahead!
www.tillygreene.com

Is it Hot Enough for Ya?

“You might like it slow and easy, Logan, but I like it fast and hard,” she whispered into his ear after breaking the kiss. “I like it hot.” Her teeth teased his earlobe. “Show me what you’ve got, fireman.” She reached between their bodies and caressed his lust-filled balls.

He met her demand without further coaxing, moving his hips in a rhythm as old as time. He started out slow and teasing, until the pleasure became too much for him and forced him to pick up speed. Libby matched his urgency with her own lusty needs. Her sounds of satisfaction and encouragement filled the room as her roaming hands found all the pleasure points that added to the thrill of the moment.

Reaching forward, Logan took her jutting breasts in his hands. Libby’s back arched and she dropped her palms on the tabletop behind her, offering him the gift of her sweat flesh without shyness. Her breathless sigh of pleasure echoed his satisfied growl. As he kneaded the twin mounds at his leisure, she wrapped her legs around his waist without warning, forcing him deeper. Keeping him where he wanted to be.

Where she wanted him.

Their eyes met, and there was no denying the inner fire burning in Libby’s meant she was climbing higher, nearing the pinnacle of ultimate fulfillment. Her lovely face was flushed with color, her mouth parted as little puffs of air escaped. All at once she reached for him. Logan didn’t know what her intentions were but he took matters into his own hands, kissing her with rough ardor.

He became lost in the kaleidoscope of sensations exploding through his body. He was aware of her soft breasts and hard nipples, crushed against his chest. Aware of his pounding heart and the blood running like a river of hot lava through his veins. Everywhere he touched Libby, everywhere she touched him, produced ecstasy of gigantic proportions. He’d never felt anything like it and he didn’t want it to end.

She returned his hard kiss, meeting the thrust of his hips with a thrust of her own. Her hands kept busy, roaming over Logan wherever she could reach him.

“Velvet over steel,” she murmured against his lips. The muscles in Logan’s arms flexed when she ran her palms over them. Next she moved on to trace his back with her nails, before clenching her fingers into his buttocks. “Everywhere!”

Logan tore his mouth from hers and zeroed in on her collarbone. She gasped and twisted her neck to one side so his lips could smooth a trail up to the back of her ear. She trembled violently when he gave a gentle tug, and then repaid him by running her hands along the backs of his thighs and between his legs until her fingertips were teasing his balls. Heart pounding out of control, Logan jerked back, taking his cock in his hand. With precise movement he guided the tip over the nub of her desire, rubbing it back and forth vigorously until Libby was twitching and gasping with pleasure. He watched her pupils dilate a second just as her climax hit her.

“Logan!”

Her cry of excitement released his own and he lost control, releasing the tidal wave of rapture that had been steadily building since that first kiss. Taking Libby by the hips, Logan pulled her over his shaft and held her tightly as a hard climax racked his body. He grunted low and claimed her lips, stealing her breath away as they succumbed to sweet ecstasy.

"IT'S ALL IN THE JEANS" by Tory Richards
ebook and print by www.whiskeycreekpresstorrid.com
www.toryrichards.com

New Beginnnings

New Beginnings
By
N.J. Walters

The holiday lights have all gone dark and the decorations have been taken down and packed away for another year. We’re into the long, bleak winter months now. But there is also hope and promise in the air. It’s a new year. A time for new beginnings.

I think that many of us reflect on our lives as January settles in. What do we want? What would we change if we could? Why can’t we change it?

It might be something as simple as being brave enough to get a new hairstyle or it could be as huge as wanting an new job. Or it could be something even more drastic—like wanting an entirely new life. Some folks are actually able to find the courage it takes to make huge, life-altering changes. I admire them for that.

That theme is a huge part of my Tapestries series. In this fantasy/ménage a trois series, a magical tapestry appears when a woman is at a crossroads in her life and transports her to the Medieval-like world of Javara and into the arms of two, or more, warriors who want to claim her as their own. In their world, women are scarce and brothers must compete for the right to claim her. Only one of them can marry her, but both of them will do whatever it takes to get her to stay. The catch? She has only three days to decide. And there’s no changing her mind once the decision is made.

What kind of woman could make this kind of choice? Maybe she’s fed up with her empty and lonely life? This other life offers a chance at having a family of her own. All she has to do in order to get it is to trust two men she’s just met and leave everything familiar behind. It would also mean living in an alternate world that is violent and primitive—no movies, no mall, no computers, no chocolate… You get the point.

That’s the choice that faces Christina Beaumont when she impulsively buys an expensive tapestry she can’t really afford. Christina’s Tapestry examines her journey and ultimately her choices. You’d think it would be an easy decision to make. On one hand you have a mundane office job, an apartment and no family. On the other, two handsome warriors who want to make you happy, a chance at love and a family, and a place to belong. But, as most of us know, it’s never quite that simple.

In Bakra Bride, the heroine Jane Smith is at a crossroads as well. Her life unravels when she witnesses a murder and loses her career as a high-powered executive, her upscale apartment and her boyfriend. To say Jane has put in a few hard months is an understatement. It’s finally behind her now and things are starting to go her way when she buys a tapestry at a thrift shop. Javara is definitely not the urban life she’s used to. Nor are the two warrior brothers who want to claim her.

Again, choices and not clear cut ones.

The next book in the series—Threads of Destiny, which releases from Ellora’s Cave on January 14—plucks a woman from the future and sends her to Javara. Kathryn Piedmont is a certified genius, a misfit and a scientist, fighting to save two genetically enhanced super soldiers from termination when Marc Garen, the man of her fantasies, appears and magically transports them all to safety. Now three men share Kathryn’s bed, all bent on satisfying her every desire. But Marc is resolved to make her his alone. He has three days to convince her…before the tapestry returns.

Who knows what will happen with Kathryn? Like the other women in the series, she’ll have choices to make. She has ties and loyalties to her home and time. Will she succumb to them or will she release her fears and take a chance on love?

As the song says: It’s a new day, it’s a new dawn, it’s a new life. This is a brand new year. Nothing is set in stone. What changes will you make? What chances will you take?

Something to think about.

Emotional~Sensual~Satisfying Reads!
http://www.njwalters.com
http://www.njwalters.blogspot.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/awakeningdesires/ (newsletter group)