Penny Dune

Redirecting

2010-05-18T09:16:00.000-07:00

Follow me HERE.
I just couldn't keep up with more than two blogs, and still be able to write.
HUGS to all my friends and fans.

Compulsive Contest Entrant

2010-04-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

Hi. My name is Penny Dune. And I'm a compulsive contest entrant.

Apparently, I need affirmation. I'm looking for someone else to tell me how good I'm doing.

Let's look at the facts here, ma'am. Contests are NOT the place for affirmation. Sure, they have the potential to do just that, but in reality, they are little more than a bunch of strangers reading your work and judging you based on a mere number of words. Sometimes as little as 25 of them.

I drafted an email to enter Miss Snark's First Victim's first 50 word crit round. Authoress is a lovely gal who has made a real name for herself in the writing blogosphere. She's got great connections and uses them well. She's consistent and active when poor sops like me can hardly get on their blog more than once a week. Anyhow, I like to patronize her blog. She deserves it.

On the other hand [back to the contest dicussion], do I really want to enter another contest? Am I wasting my time? What are my chances?

They seem so slim. Not because I think my writing sucks. No. But because 50 words is the blink of an eye. How the heck am I--or anyone else--supposed to crit 50 words? I can ask if the entry is catchy, but that hardly matters if the first sentence or two isn't followed by more... Right? Of course right.

So, it's a crap shoot, and maybe I'm just not up for gambling right now. I need to get to work instead. :D

Take care all you crazy readers out there.
Penny Dune

Summer Lovin'

2010-04-10T14:31:00.000-07:00

Finito!

Okay, I'm going to add an epilogue, it can't be helped, but otherwise, the story is completely written... and I love it.

I started this blog long ago when this story was just a babe. It has some maturing to do in the next couple of weeks, but it won't be long before I can send it off into the big bad world and see how it does.

EEEK!

Thanks for sticking with me.
With this one down, I'm sure it won't be long before I have another going.

That's the way of things around here. :P
Love you all!

What Easter means to Me

2010-04-02T19:12:00.000-07:00

I can't help but say a little about my church holiday. We celebrate new life, rebirth... All things SPRING.

It makes me thankful for all that I've been given.

Knowing there's Hope in such trying times is what puts a smile on my face everyday.

It's how I know someday I'll be published. Someday my husband will have a job again. Someday, peace will exist.

Pray for Peace.
~Penny Dune

A Day at the Races

2010-03-29T09:16:00.000-07:00

I'm going to New York in May, and my cousin is having a party at the Belmont Races. How exciting is that? Fun, fun, fun. I hope I win something. Maybe I should start keeping track of the horses right now. How does a person even do that?

Time for some serious research. ;-)

Also that same day, I'm taking a tour in Soho. A historical/food walking tour in NYC. YUM and FUN. I have a lot to look forward to. What about you?

What's on your plate this spring?
Tell me all about it.
Love,
Penny

Fillings

2010-03-25T09:11:00.000-07:00

Well, that's it.
I have my first tooth filling, ever.
Went to the dentist this morning. It was fine. Numbing agents are--for sure--the best things ever invented!!! Thank you science and inspiration.

What the worst thing you've ever had done in your mouth?
Be nice now... nothing sordid. *wink*

It's the beginning of a really GREAT weekend.
Enjoy it and read something fun.
~Penny

The Planning Committee

2010-03-16T08:13:00.000-07:00

I'm it. The family planning committee...

oh, wait, that's not right either. OMG, that's hilarious. *cough* I mean, I'm that too. But, oh, nevermind.

I'm supposed to plan monthly events for the fmaily to do. This isn't as easy as it sounds!! I haven't failed miserably, but I have failed.

When we lived outside Washington D.C. for a time, we did a museum day once. Another day we did a trip to Manassas. Did you know you could spend a good week in that area and not see everything?

It takes great effort. First, it has to be scheduled. As the kids get older, time becomes more precious. Do you find that too? It seems that whenever I have a free Saturday, I'd much rather spend it sitting on my driveway in the sunshine, just watching the kids play.

But I want to do better. I need to do better, so I'm looking for something to do in April. "April?!" you exclaim? Yes, May! Because March is just about gone. If I don't plan something for late April, I won't be planning anything until the end of June. That's how busy my schedule is... :P

So, tell me. What do you do with the family as extra curricular in your area? Doesn't have to be free to be a good example, either. I'm willing to pay a few dollars to satisfy the Family Committee Head--my hubby.
We've done the local Children's Museum and the local Nature Center/State Park.

I think I might need to plan a day trip. Get out of our immediate area. :)

An Anniversary

2010-03-13T09:26:00.000-08:00

My girl Bethanne has been married eleven years today!

Congratulations, you crazy lady!!!

Still Writing

2010-03-09T08:57:00.001-08:00

I am. I'm still writing.
Ugh! In case you're curious. I'm almost finished with this manuscript--Summer Lovin'.

Maybe a deadline would help?

Easter's a good date. Goal: submitt to publisher on Monday, April 5th. That means I have to have my first draft and revisions completed in less than 3 weeks. Okay. I'm a nut.

That's nuttier than thinking I would never get a cavity, which by the is no longer true. Regular check up with the dentist last week turned into my first cavity ever. You know that moment when you realize you aren't going to live forever? Most people figure this out in their twenties, or possibly earlier depending on life experience... Me? I thought I would live forever AND never get a cavity!

Oh, well.

...Maybe that is nuttier than the revisions in 3 weeks...

I hope this whole cavity thing isn't a sign of things to come. :P

My visits in blogland are less frequent, but don't think that means I don't think of you out there. have a great week.
~Penny

Favorite Things

2010-03-01T18:04:00.000-08:00

What's your favorite thing to do to pass the time?
I played Rummy with my daughter the other day. So much fun! When we got started, she decided Go-Fish was the game we were going to play. I looked at her, ten now, and thought, "no. It's time to play something else."

*big cry baby*

They grow up so fast!! I showed her how to play and now, there will be no going back. It's forward motion from here on out... Games, Books, Television, Make-up, Clothes, Talks.

I guess that's why part of me feels a little guilty about my coming trip to New York. She would looooooooove to go. She would DIE to go. And when I first talked to my girlfriend about making a trip, babygirl was there with us. So, I think when she finds out that the trip is BIG girls only, it will be a little heartbreaking for her. Especially since she'll have to stay home with ALL boys. :(

Well, I look forward to another trip a few years from now when I can take her with me. But, this time....
It's just for me. :D
And that's okay, too.
Have a great week, everyone.
Love,
Penny Dune

The Juggling Act

2010-02-26T07:48:00.000-08:00

I try not drone on about writing. I mean, yes, most of my visitors are writing friends, but they know me and know what I'm going through. If you aren't a writing friend, I definitely don't want to bore you with my very uninteresting life. I'd rather you think my life resembles my books! haha.

All that said, I had an idea for my next novella. Since I'm saving the last chapter or two from my Summer Lovin' story until I get that far in revisions, I guess my brain has decided I can let loose. Wow, the imagination is such a FUN creature. I can't wait to start writing this story. I'm outlining and have a heroine that I think is going to be one of my best yet. She has five brothers, one that is a hockey player for the North Carolina Hurricanes. No hero yet, but I'm getting some ideas... Once I figure out what puts the story in motion, I'll have a better idea of who he is and where he came from.

All this story planning has me extra excited. Connecting my Summer Lovin' story to at least one other "seasonal" story never occured to me. Believe me, it's occuring now! My new story has a working title of Winter Craze. I went with Ice Witch at first, but after the thought of integrating the stories crossed my mind... I knew I would have to create something better. Perhaps later, I'll think of a story for Fall and Spring!

Whoooot! I just love this career--the work, the creativity, the rush.
Have a great weekend.
With Love,
Penny

Favorite Vacations

2010-02-22T14:04:00.000-08:00

All time favorite vacations.
My current manuscript takes place in Mexico, during a vacation.

I was thinking about my own history of vacations. There are different chapters of my life that each has its own special trip or vacation. Overall, though. I've decided to define vacation. DH and I had a discussion on this very topic not too long ago. I claimed we've never been on an actual vacation in our 13 years together. You wanna know why?

1) visiting family is NOT vacation
2) family obligations [though loved and enjoyed] are NOT vacation
3) cub scout camping trips? NOT vacation :D
4) Day trips in our corner of the country are NOT vacation either

I don't remember one time that we've ever done anything that didn't include one or more of those disqualifiers. I would love to go to the Grand Canyon, just to see the Grand Canyon. Or sign up for a cattle drive--like City Slickers. Or rent a beach house on the coast for a week.

There are a few vacations I remember from being a kid. A trip to Mackinac Island. I remember fudge. Also, our family trips to Alpena and a week at a camp there right on Long Lake--we did that more than once. Then there was the trip to Disney World when I was a senior in high school. Middle of the winter, we didn't wait in line for ANY of the rides. :D Great fun!

My anniversary is coming up. DH and I are taking one night to get away. It will be our first 'official', pre-qualified vacation since our honeymoon.
How about you?
When was your most favorite vacation EVER?

Superior Scribler Award!

2010-02-18T08:37:00.000-08:00

I am so lucky today!

Debora Dennis, one of my lovely Passionate Critters, gave me an award.

This award originated from The Scholasatic Scribe, whose father suggested she sign up for the High School Journalism Program because she wasn't strong in math.

And as anyone who's been in the blogosphere more than a week knows, the award comes with a few rules. (1) I must confess to 10 things you might not know about me and (2) I must pass this award on to a few other lucky recipients. Got it? Let's go...

1. My real name is Bethanne, I've been Penny Dune, a pen name, for several months. If you know Bethanne, then you already know this, because she can't keep a secret worth a damn. :D

2. I'm part robot...not only do I come with a pump, I'm attached to a transmitter as well.

3. It's possible there's coffee running through my veins.

4. I've lived in seven different states--and plan on doing more. I love the idea of starting something new.

5. I have LOTS of freckles... and my hubby loves them. Thank goodness!

6. Next to coffee, ice cream and chocolate are my biggest weakness... actually. No. Nevermind. These are supposed to be things you don't know about me. We all know how I love men.

7. I'm a closet Chicago fan... it's a hard habit to break. Side note: my hubby HATES THEM! :D

8. I'm a religious person. What can I say? I love God.

9. I never finished college.

10. I can braille.

Wow, as usual, that is waaaay harder than it seems. [That's what she said!] Now I get to do the honors of passing this award to a few deserving bloggers. My hat's off to Kerri Sparling from Six Until Me (she knows me as Bethanne. As a matter of fact, I use know lightly). A fellow human robotic, she has amazing scribling abilities. I wouldn't be surprised to see her name on the NYT bestselling list someday. Also, fellow writer and PCer, Kate Karyus Quinn, she writes an urban fantasy I can't get enough of. :D

Thanks for stopping by!
Enjoy the weekend.
With love,
Penny Dune

How do you know?

2010-02-16T15:17:00.000-08:00

How do you know it's love?

I have to comtemplate this... Imperative to the romance novel is knowing the signs, knowing how your character will react to the knowledge that he or she has fallen.

Sometimes, I have to make it up--like when my villain has fallen for the heroine...and showing, acting on that love means killing for her.

Sometimes, I can imagine it--like when my hero's best friend--Sean, married for three years to his high school sweetheart, witnesses the birth of his first child and suddenly knows... with the clarity of a perfect four carat diamond that even though he married his sweetheart because she was pregnant with a child they eventually lost, he can't live without this woman. She's his life.

Knowing you're in love might mean fighting as passionately as you make love. It might mean quiet nights of pillow talk and cuddling, or fear so stark, running seems the only reasonable option.

But the ultimate know is in his Kiss.

...i'm laughing my butt off right now, because this just came to me in a flash...

Inspired, seriously, isn't it? :D

Valentine's Day

2010-02-13T09:08:00.000-08:00

Love is in the air... or so they say.

I know it's in the air at my house.

Though I love the holiday--commercial ridden as it is--I like to think that I celebrate Valentine's Day everyday. Through thick and thin, good times and bad, sickness and health.

Hey! That sounds familiar. I hope your commitment in life, whether through marriage or friendship or even obligation, is driven by Love.

I'm one month from being married for 11 years....
It's only gotten better.

Sorry this post is late. Hope your day was peaceful, smart and full of love.

Heroes -- The Series

2010-02-03T08:26:00.000-08:00

A Warrior

A warrior is a person experienced in or capable of engaging in combat or warfare, especially within the context of a tribal or clan-based society that recognizes a separate warrior class. According to the Random House Dictionary, the term warrior has two meanings. The first literal use refers to "a man engaged or experienced in warfare." The second figurative use refers to "a person who shows or has shown great vigor, courage, or aggressiveness, as in politics or athletics." <-- from wikipedia.

One thing I loved about the character Wind-in-his-hair--from Dances ~~like a wolf~~ with Wolves. [yes, I had to make fun, just a little. ;)]--he is youth makes his pride volatile. He is the first to stand against the newcomer. He is protective. Perhaps in every Warrior hero beats the heart of a protector, huh?

I like the second part of the wikipedia definition, showing great vigor [well, really what hero doesn't show great vigor? hmm?], courage or aggressiveness. A warrior for the cause. Again, protecting what's his, whether it be a tree hugger, a cancer survivor or women's rights.

I like the idea of a warrior hero. I like a good military intrigue. I love old historical westerns, too. When so many people today allow life to float on by, it's really nice to read a story with drive.

Wow, I'm finished! 10 hero types. 10 blog posts. There's satisfaction here. Thanks for sticking with me!

Heroes -- The Series

2010-01-31T14:13:00.000-08:00

Ick on the movie... not my cup of tea.

Well, oddly enough, I think this is my least favorite hero. Probably because most protectors I've read are too over the top. I don't mind an alpha with a protective streak, but the protector is too one track-minded. More like a father in some cases.

Again, I'm wracking my brain for a good example...

as usual, I'm thinking of lots of characters that aren't complete Protectors... There's a small part of most women that want to be cherished enough to have a man want to protect them. Too see the danger and think of them first.

I had a dream recently in which my hubby was getting ready to bathe in a creek. But before hand, he built a fire to warm up. It was cold--early spring, late fall or something. Well, the fire spread to an old fire truck that was nearby. The fire truck went up in flames. Our neighbor yelled at us to run! We both ran and while I struggled to get over this ledge, I watched my hubby's back, leaving me in the dust. Not even a hand up to help me get away.

Obviously, I have some protector issues... Hahahaha. Or perhaps, I'm just one of those gals that doesn't need protecting. ;)

Heroes -- The Series

2010-01-27T18:33:00.000-08:00

The Rogue... like Errol Flynn, mmhmm.

Charming, Dashing... Careless.

What is it that makes the rogue tie down?

What is it that makes him finally SEE the woman? Because you all know that the rogue is just another word for womanizer. Right? The man who goes from one woman to the next, never leaving an unsatisfied gal in his wake. They enjoy him and share him, knowing he is like a bird and can't be caged. [okay, i just threw up a little in my mouth]

So, why does the heroine win?

The heroine will not be charmed by the Rogue. She will not see a dashing gentleman. Nope. She most likely will not see him at all, which is what draws him to her in the first place. He will wonder about that one. And in wondering he will discover something deeper.

True Love and a mate worthy of his humility.

Don't look only to a Regency for your Rogue. He can be found in a contemporary, too!

If you'll pass on the Rogue, try the Tycoon--at Romance in Writing on FRIDAY!

Heroes -- The Series

2010-01-26T02:35:00.000-08:00

Though teen wolf isn't exactly first generation paranormal [don't forget Young Frankenstein!], it's pretty darn close. More importantly, it portrayed a shifter who didn't need to be overcome.

The biggest SHIFT in paranormal characters was when they went from villain to hero. Take vampires, for example. At first they were blooksucking, human-seeking, nefarious goons. Now most people love them and want to find out that their most recent conquest has just joined the Vampires Anonymous 12 step program... 12 steps to better blood the moral way. [you know, like a blood bank]

What makes the paranormal so appealing?
1) the unknown
2) the danger--uh, yeah, have you ever embraced a wolf?
3) the power

I've become a sucker for a Shifter. My introduction to them came from Christina Dodd's series, The Chosen Ones. So intense, so steamy! Dodd blends our known rituals with those of her shifter world so that I became a believer while reading...

And isn't the one of the best things about reading, anyway?
So, tell me. What's your favorite creature?
The shifter?
The vampire?
The Zombie?
The Fairy (what is a fairy guy, anyway?)?
Or, The Fly.... EW!!

Heroes -- The Series

2010-01-21T19:22:00.000-08:00

The Beta Hero -- The Nerd
Do you want to know who my favorite beta hero is? Ken Karmody, from Suzanne Brockmann's Out of Control. Do you know what Ken "Wildcard" is? He's a SEAL. Maybe it's the contrast that did it. He acted tough, but he was also horribly insecure. And he just isn't quite what you expect the heroine to connect with.

Taken from the Road to Romance webpage:
Beta heroes need to grow, change, learn. Nice doesn't equal perfect. An easygoing guy who's funny and sweet hides his feelings more effectively and feels pain more deeply than an alpha hero (who will, when angry or upset, stomp around, growl, and hit stuff). A beta hero hides his pain behind a smile, a joke, or a quiet reserve. A beta hero is more likely to walk away from a confrontation or do what he believes the heroine wants than to stand his ground and fight it out. This isn't wimp behavior because he's not afraid for himself, he's afraid for the person he cares about.

One of my all time favorite, video-tape-is-warped movies is While you were sleeping. And wouldn't you know? Those ladies at Road to Romance used Bill Pullman as an example for a Beta Hero. Mmmhmm. Lovely.

These gals really know what they're talking about!
The question is, do women want an Alpha or a Beta???
Don't forget that Bethanne is working on a post to kick off next week with another blog on all the heroes we love.

Catch a Falling Star...

2010-01-20T17:50:00.000-08:00

...and put it in your pocket. Never let it fade away.

In case you're wondering what you can do with a star.

I'm here to tell you, "save it for a rainy day."

This song reminds me of the great things I already have...

For love may come an' tap you on the shoulder, Some starless night.

Just in case you feel you wanna hold her, You'll have a pocketful of starlight.

Why do you think he needed starlight to hold her?

...and the things I have to look forward to...

for when your troubles start multiplying, An' they just might.

It's easy to forget them without trying, With just a pocketful of starlight.

I don't have to ask how starlight can help. Stars are wishes, dreams, hopes.

Having one in your pocket is like being richer than Midas.

So, don't forget. Catch a falling star and put it in your pocket.

Snobs

2010-01-17T13:20:00.001-08:00

I've been trying to figure out what makes a snob...
is a person who only uses expensive and high end stuff?
or can it be a person who only likes ONE type?

I have to ask because I think I'm a coffee snob.
The thing is, I like my Eight O'clock Coffee. I can't stand Starbucks... with a passion it does absolutely NOTHING for me. Last week I recieved a free sample of Gevalia, made in Switzerland, and I brewed it as the directions instructed, even cleaning my pot first. But, I didn't like it. It didn't seem smooth to me. The taste was rich yet unappealing...

So, am I a coffee snob?

The Sandwich Generation

2010-01-12T09:33:00.000-08:00

I read a blog today that talked about The Baby Boomers also being the Sandwich Generation. Described as Sandwiched between taking care of children and taking care of parents in their old age.

Okay. I'm not big on labels. So, my take is a little different than this gals. I didn't think this lady was that old, but if she's a baby boomer, she'd have been born in the forties. Making her... in her seventies, possibly in her sixties. My parents were born in the fifties. I would not call them baby boomers. I could be wrong. Maybe they are!! My parents ARE taking care of my grandmother.

What I'm trying to describe is the fact that we ALL, at some point, hold the likelihood of becoming Sandwiched. My uncle--definitely NOT a baby boomer--is hitting this stage. He was married later in life[thank goodness he probably won't read this! He's in his fifties? late forties, at least...I think, Sorry Uncle Doug! Not saying you're old.] and now has 3 young children. His mother is an awesomely spry, active--dare I say it?--impulsive woman. No one "takes" care of her!! Go Grandma! She went to Europe with her newly widowed sister this fall. They must have had sooooo much fun. Anyway, he helps her out, though.

What determines a Sandwiched individual?
1) Age of parents
2) Age of becoming parents
3) Age the kids move out--seriously, my neighbor has a son--26--who still lives at home... and he does shit for himself, the prick.

Anyhooo... I'm interested in this idea. Mostly because I most likely will never experience it. My parents are young, 57. They never took care of kids and parents. As well, my hubby and I started having kids at 22. By 50ish, our kids will mostly be independent and my parents--God-willing--will still be fit at 75ish. Isn't 50 the new 30? :D

I guess, in a nutshell, I feel bad for the people who wait until they are well into their thirties to have kids. They will be sandwiched! I can't wait until I'm 50...

Tiger of Talmare

2010-01-09T09:14:00.001-08:00

I can't help but do a little promo for one of my critique partners. Published with Shadowfire, she has an imagination that isn't of this world and a sense of humor that never fails to make me chuckle. If your idea of a good read includes new worlds and sexy men, this book is for you!!!

Tiger of Talmare

Melissa Stark will take on just about any job as long as the price is right. But this particular job she would gladly take on for free because Captain Zachary Knight has been a thorn in her side ever since she stole his starship ten years ago.

Back then he was a genuine hero and poster boy for the army's hybrid breeding program. Now things have changed. Zach has been accused of a massacre on the planet of Talmare and is being shipped home to stand trial. But certain influential people want to make sure Zach never reaches Earth and Mel and her crew on The Revenge have been hired to intercept him and return him to Talmare.

It should have been easy money. The problem is, Zach is impossible to resist and once Mel gets her hands on him she's doesn't want to let him go. Now those same people are also after Mel.

Shadowfire Press Frontiers of Love Scifi Erotic Romance Themed Novella
Genre: Scifi Erotic Romance
Heat Rating: Fire

Buy it HERE!

Biggest Loser

2010-01-05T17:00:00.000-08:00

Okay, here's my thought for the day...

I've been a fan of the Biggest Loser for several seasons.

But something happened during this past season and the season that starts tonight.

The show went from Inspirational to Gawking-worthy.

I mean, I'm uncomfortable watching it, because it seems to be less about normal people trying to get better, but about pulling viewers in with sensation.

I'm not saying these people aren't normal or worthy of being on the show. Not that at all. They want to be there. They are obese and [most likely] need to be there. Part of me still roots for them, the underdog. The other part of me says, "Shame on you NBC for making the show a circus!"

Okay, I've watched some of the intro...

The stories are dragging me in. These people have hope. That's good. They need it.

Well, I guess we all need it.

I'll be watching the season very carefully!

I don't want to see any circus side shows. I just want to see people working hard to lose weight and make a better life for themselves. :D

It's like a romance novel.

Have a great week.

Penny Dune

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T19:09:00.001-08:00

Today is January!!! You know what that means? I get to find another man for my month.

In all honesty, I would like to post a picture of my husband. He's handsome, but more than that, he's kind, loving, funny, protective...irritating, a good father and a great lover. *sigh* I just had to say that, because I don't want people to think of my Man of the Month as some tribute to a standard that is lacking or unobtainable. As an artist, I appreciate good-looking things. Men included. :D

Really though, the only thing that Man of the Month does for me is DATE me. It's not good when you don't recognize most of the men in a photo lineup and the ones that you do recognize are all in their late thirties, forties and fifties... or older. Eeek!

The first day of the rest of my life:

Entered a writing contest.

Exercised like a good girl.

Wrote.

Hung out with my man.

I did drink one too many yesterday...but it was more a lack of food that put me over rather than a problem with being over-served. :P I hate that. I didn't expect it because when we finally got to our friends house, I only had two glasses of wine. Not very much!

It was an appropriate end to a yucky year.

I look forward to this one.

On the Third day of Christmas

2009-12-27T10:40:00.000-08:00

My kids are FINALLY outside. The snow came down for two days straight and is still going strong today. Tomorrow the sun will be out, but for today, everyone is enjoying the soft, wet, fluffy mess. :)

This Christmas was bittersweet as we spent it with my widowed mother-in-law. It's so strange that my father-in-law isn't here. It's no wonder the holidays are hard on families. It's a time for giving extra love and sharing extra joy. Hopefully, being here made it easier on my husband's mother. She'll be flying herself back to the warmer south tomorrow morning.

Then....

it'll be TIME TO WORK!

Go through extra toys and toyboxes, find room for the new stuff. Find the stuff that no one even looks at anymore.
Finish my current WIP. Take a really big bite out of that story so that when the new year hits I can start subbing it through my crit group. I just love being excited about a story. :D
Oh, and exercise...see, I've put on a few holiday pounds...or are they fall pounds? No, more like 2009 pounds that 2010 wants nothing to do with. ;) haha.

Are you listening?

2009-12-23T14:39:00.001-08:00

I'm going out with my hubby tonight. :D

Need I say more? My mother-in-law is going to watch the kids for a couple of hours.

*sigh*

YAY!

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

2009-12-18T15:41:00.000-08:00

My kids are watching that great old movie starring a car who can race, swim and fly! I think watching movies growing up formed my sense of valor and romance at an early age. Happily Ever Afters were a way of life, not the exception. It takes but a spark in a child's mind for the flame of story telling to erupt into...well, there's no telling. Perhaps in one it might be through a painter's brush. For another, through ink in a pen. And still more bring that flame to the stage or the silver screen.

Stories bring life to life.

Tell me, what was your favorite movie? or book? or song? What makes you wish for a Happily Ever After?

Excerpt Monday

2009-12-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

Once a month, a bunch of authors get together and post excerpts from published books, contracted work or works in progress, and link to each other. You=2 0don’t have to be published to participate–just an writer with an excerpt you’d like to share. For more info on how to participate, head over to the Excerpt Monday site! or click on the banner above.

~*~*~

Nathan woke to heat. With a pounding head and groggy eyes, he shifted away from the source only to have the source follow him. Clammy hands on his abdomen and moisture from her skin against his thighs sent his body into early morning alert. Almost twenty years. You'd think he would be immune. He should be immune.

Stacy.

She'd curled into his side during the night and was wrapped around him.

5 a.m. Too fuckin' early, but too late to reclaim any sleep. Geez. He should have slept in the second bedroom. As was his practice lately, he slid out of bed and jumped into a cold shower that hardly relieved his arousal. Twenty-nine days was a long ass time.

But necessary if he wanted to ease back.

Dressed—armed—for the day in his blue and pink floral jams and his muscle t-shirt, he hit the kitchen for a quick meal. He made oatmeal, not because it was his favorite, but because it was supposed to lower cholesterol. He figured he better try to stay one step ahead of the grim reaper. Forty-four had snuck up on him like a damn snake and sunk its venomous teeth into his heart.
“Nate! For the love of God.” Stacy rushed to the stove.

He swung around to her and watched in horror as she reached for the pot of boiling oatmeal. Swift as he could, he snagged her around the waist.

“Ow!”

The sticky, thick liquid glooped down the side of the metal and hit the burner where it sizzled and burned. Shit.

“Put me down, you idiot.”

When he dropped her, she stumbled against the table, but he was already grabbing a towel and tossing the pot into the sink. “Did you touch it?” he asked, his heart pounding against his ribcage.

“No.” As she straightened her spine, his awareness that she was going to spew more needs all over him peaked—a result of eighteen years of marriage. “Nathan. I scheduled us to go deep sea diving today.”

“I ca—”

She lifted a hand, successfully succumbing his excuses. “Since you have work, I'll be going by myself.”

Stacy was typically a calm woman. Paired against his own temper, they'd made a good match, but it was times like this when he would give anything to see her fight. Sometime since yesterday afternoon, she'd lost her spark.

He bit his tongue on the urge to ask her about it.

Silence between them had never been awkward before. Now, he didn't think he could get out of there fast enough. He couldn't do this right now. Not when he had a team waiting on him in the Philippines, not when every encounter with her weakened the wall he'd built in order to protect her.

“Nothing?” She strode to the sink and turned on the water. “You have nothing to say. Great, just great. You're unbelievable, you know that?”

Nathan froze. There was no winning in answering, but she expected something. “I have to work. I know this vacation is important to you—”

“To us!” She yelled, dropping the pot so that water sloshed from the sink and drenched her sleeves. “Us. I didn't plan this getaway on my own a year ago. You were there too. We decided to come down here while the kids were in Germany.

“But here I am, by myself even after the sun goes down. And alone when I wake up, too. And you! What do you do? Nothing!” She turned to him, sending poisonous darts with her cold blue eyes as her voice rose. “I need more than you are giving.”

Nathan's shock meter shot through the roof as Stacy grabbed her breasts, squeezed them as if offering them to him. “I want sex, damn it, and you can't even find it in you to roll over and wish me goodnight.”

~*~*~

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Holiday Traditions

2009-12-10T11:24:00.000-08:00

Christmas Trees and stockings. Cookies and milk.

I can't help but write at least one little blog about this great season.

Bringing family together--let's be realistic--can certainly TRY a person.

Maybe Uncle Reggie's drinking gets out of control.

Maybe Sally brings home a total loser and expects everyone to welcome him with open arms.

Perhaps, little Ted is sick this year or Grandma just passed away last month.

I've been getting to know Stacy Gerard over the last few weeks. She was telling me about her and Nathan's first Christmas ever.

Let's face it, Penny, she said. Blending two lives is never easy!

He wanted to go camping! Was I game? Not really. I like camping enough, as a matter of fact, I enjoy it. But this was Christmas. I wanted a tree that I could decorate, stocking to stuff. My parents to visit and a nice meal.

Things went in my favor that year. There were still hearts in his eyes, I guess... maybe he was just blinded by lust! :D [her infectious laugh filled the phone line] But next year, his vision was clearer, and we did end up camping.

You know what? It was fun, and it was for us... no one else. A new tradition that we could share with the kids who came that year. Don't get me wrong, we don't camp every year. At first we went back and forth. Then as life got busier and Nathan was traveling more for work, we just did it when we could.

We bring one bag of presents to share and cook the family meal over an open fire. Some coffee and a good dose of Bailey's keep us toasty warm through the night and into the next day. If the weather is good, we pull out our hiking boots and find a place to picnic on Christmas day.

It's been a while since we've done that... I think three years ago.

I'm hoping for another trip this year. It would be the perfect end to an otherwise, surprising and unsettling year.

I wished her a Merry Christmas as our conversation ended.

She is right about new traditions and family.

Maybe it's time for me to start something new, too!

Fast Forward

2009-12-07T06:33:00.000-08:00

Have you woken up next to the same person so many times, you don't even have to touch them to know if they want you?

Falling in love is exciting and thrilling. Every new experience opens your eyes, and heightens your awareness of that person. Long looks, holding hands, gentle kisses...

Tentative touches, beating hearts and a passion that could last a lifetime.

Fast Forward

When the long looks have become secrets that make you laugh and holding hands includes a little one. Gentle kisses are stolen, then savored until next time.

Touches are familiar and desire comes quickly.

~~~~~~~~~~

Fast Forward

Knowing someone so well, there absence leaves an indelible mark. The short temper no longer leads to loving and the uncertainty eats at your stomach.

Love no longer taken or returned petrifies to stone.

The Sledgehammer

One word: LOVE

When the thought of never being with your lover again sets your soul to running. Running back to the safety of a love given and needed. Relief, a tidal wave crashing against the shores of a broken heart. Forgiveness washing away the stain of imperfection.

John Gerard

2009-12-03T09:16:00.000-08:00

John. You've been in Germany for the past few weeks. What is your favorite part of being in Europe?

J: My Grandparents have a summer home in the mountains. I love coming here because of the history.

History, huh? You're a little young for someone interested in history. What's your favorite era?

J: *smiling* It's a toss up between the Victorian--I always wanted to be a pirate when I was a kid--and of course, World War II. My father, his father and my great grandfather all served in the Army. Here, I get to really jump in, you know? It's not just the museums and memorials. It's real life. The pubs, the people, libraries, churches--

A living history, John?

J: Yes!

Do you think you'll follow in their footsteps? Join the military?

J: Hmm. I don't know. It's hard, you know? My dad, he works alot, even now after being retired for the last five years. He's gone alot. It's hard on my mom.

You have two siblings, right?

J: Julia and Josiah, trouble and terror--respectively. *grin*

Do you travel with them often?

J: This is our first time without my mom. I guess Mom and Dad needed a break. *snort* Like we don't know what that means, right?

They get along, your mom and dad?

J: Yeah. I've seen them argue, hard. My mom, she's the quiet one and my dad really knows how to let lose, but they've never not worked it out...

You worried about them this time?

J: *pause* Nah. Whatever it is, they'll work it out. They have to...

Tell me what you do for fun. I wanted to change the subject, just to ease the moment.

J: I love soccor. I spent a lot of time abroad as a kid and soccor just stuck with me. I've been working out four times a week while we're here--running, mostly. One thing about Germany, and Europe: there's no Gold's Gym on every other corner. Well, I like to lift when I'm home, but aside from my studying, I just keep busy. And Dad puts me to work.

He's a real slave driver?

J: He's old school, right? We live in the mountains, and staying warm in the winter means swinging an axe for wood. *grin*

When we're interrupted by Josiah, I put my pen aside to greet him.

josiah: I hate to swing an axe.
J: That's cuz you're lazy doofus.

The interview wraps up quickly, and I smile at the brothers who obviously have a great affection for each other even if it does mean taking a ribbing. As my thoughts swing back to the man who should have loved me forever, my heart breaks a little at the thought of tearing these boys' home.

I'm just about to leave when the daughter stops me with a suspicious narrowing of her eyes, and she asks me when they can expect to see an article in the American magazine I work for.

Soon, I tell her before I drive away...

And the consequences will threaten everything you know.

New Releases!

2009-12-02T09:12:00.000-08:00

"The Scroll Thief: a Tale of Ithian" by R. F. Long

Love is the wiliest thief of all.

A Tale of Ithian

Malachy and his sister rely on his talents as a thief to survive the dangerous streets of Klathport, former capital of the once-great kingdom of Ithian. Stealing a few papers should have been a simple job. Instead, it nearly costs their lives and throws them into an improbable alliance with a shape-shifting official, a desert tribeswoman, and a healer of enchanting beauty.

Cerys is far more than a simple healer—and the roots of her mission go deeper into the past than anyone can know. She needs Malachy’s skills to recover a stolen scroll, one that can be used to rewrite history and, in the wrong hands, release the dark powers of the Demon Realm.

Her mission was supposed to atone for a dreadful, long-ago act. Instead, it unleashes a chain of events which sees them pursued through city and desert by the fearsome Dune Witch and a killer known only as His Lordship. Romance, tragedy, and adventure blend in a tale of a magical land on the brink of war, and five unlikely allies who, by putting their lives—and their hearts—on the line, have the opportunity to finally set things right.

But at a terrible cost.

Warning: Contains scenes of graphic violence and torture, captivating magic and beauty, two dashing heroes, three gutsy heroines, several love stories and a heartbreaking sacrifice.

BUY IT HERE!
Read an excerpt HERE.

Isn't it gorgeous!!! The Tickle My Fantasy anthology is out in print today!!

Go ahead. Try to resist the magic. We dare you!

Carolina Wolf by Sela Carsen (psst! This is me!)
Debra knows that the teensy amount of witchcraft in her veins isn’t worth getting excited about. Yet someone—or something—thinks it’s worth attacking her. Rescuing her seals Maddox’s fate, but only if he can protect her from a rogue of his kind. A werewolf with a nasty streak…and a preference for raw meat.

The Ghost Shrink, the Accidental Gigolo and the Poltergeist Accountant by Vivi Andrews
Lucy is doomed. Not to death. To nightly visits from recently deceased Casanovas without the bodies to scratch her itch. Then a living fantasy arrives on her doorstep. Is her dry spell at an end? Not hardly. Jake has been sent to prevent her from getting laid until a particular horny phantom—and key witness in his investigation—pays her a visit.

ParaMatch.com by MK Mancos
Even though she lives without a paranormalady, Lucille has managed to carve a niche for herself with a paranormal matchmaking service. Enter Jager, deposed king of the Titans and successful paratrader. She can match anyone, except him. She doesn’t know that he’s out to negotiate the deal of a lifetime—a future with her.

Witches Anonymous by Misty Evans
Amy is done with Devil-worshipping. After swearing an oath never to use magic again, she’s in the market for a normal guy to complement her new lifestyle. And Adam looks like perfect hero material. Lucifer, however, isn’t about to be nice about letting her go…

Warning: This book contains hunky werewolves, smart-A** women and men who think that’s sexy, magic, angels, medieval legends, inter-species romance, disco music and flatulent Boxers. (The dogs, not the underwear.)

Read An Excerpt Online

Tiger, too?

2009-11-30T18:21:00.000-08:00

Is infidelity the new rage? WTF? People wonder why romance is so popular, but maybe it's because they are tired of seeing men [and women] act like a bunch of shitheads.

I mean, if you get married and have kids... you need to honor something, don't you?
Jiminy Cricket.

So, I got to thinking. Have you ever read a book that featured a cheater? I can narrow that down, have you ever read a ROMANCE novel that featured a cheater.

How did that cheater redeem him/herself? Was it the hero or heroine?
Bottom line.
Do you think redemption is possible?

Holiday Boobs

2009-11-28T18:59:00.000-08:00

I have the pleasure of living next door to a cop. A rookie, as a matter of fact. Lucky me, I get to hear all his stories... like the woman he arrested who wanted to friend him on facebook or the kid who swiped a DS from someone at the library than ran, only to be unfortunate enough to cross headquarter's parking lot at the shift change.

And today, some dumb shit ran on a misdemeanor. My neighbor ran him down, hurdling fences on the way. Phew! Nice job, Officer. Turns out, this guy was arrested a couple of years ago for using a machete on his girlfriend's dog because....

the woman loved the dog more than him

...and he got 2 years probation. Not this time, buddy! Sheesh. It's just make-you-shiver scary what's out there. Doesn't it?

I swear, holidays bring out the crazies, don't they?

The New Direction

2009-11-27T13:38:00.001-08:00

What do you do when life throws you curves?
Do you run and hide? Is it easy to ignore the pain or the hurt?

When Stacy finally hits bottom she is on a much needed vacation with her husband. But she isn't about to run. Using whatever antics at her disposal, she commits to taking a new direction in life. What she doesn't realize is that her husband has also decided to take a new direction...and it's leading them towards shuffle board and bridge nights.

She doesn't just want her life back, she wants long days in the sun followed by passionate nights in bed. Unfortunately, convincing her military trained husband that they still got it is harder than she anticipated.