Happy Hump Day!

Yummy! Man bum, can't wait...I'm so there!!

Monday Author Interview ~ Sara York!

Sara York joins us today and I am thrilled. She’s a fellow Total-E-Bound author and a friend.


I’m excited. Why don’t we get down to the interview? Where are you from?

I grew up in central Texas. Yes I owned a horse. He was a cutting champion who was too old to stay in the game and I was lucky enough to get him. He was very loving and sweet. One thing I do hate about central Texas is the snakes. At one point my horse was bit by a snake. He survived but he was never the same after that.

Snakes? Ew.
Yeah, not a huge fan of snakes. Let’s move to something less icky. Tell us your latest news?

I'm currently working on my Princess of Gemariah series. There are seven sisters who are full of passion and desires but they are allowed little contact with the outside world. Oh yeah, and it's set in a totally different universe with places like Melopa, the pleasure planet.

I'm also working on a few M/M and ménage books and my Sara Thacker thriller books.
You are the busy girl. *g* What is your favorite character you’ve written (published or not)? Why?

My favorite character is Jake from Working it Out. Jake lost his partner six months ago and he's heartbroken. When he meets Lance he's disturbed by his feelings for this new guy he doesn't even know. But there's something between them that keeps Jake from totally ignoring Lance. Jake learns to love Lance and still honor the memories of his longtime partner.


Sigh. I love me some mm romance. Do you see writing as a career?

Writing is my career. This past year I began spending about forty hours a week working on writing. The hours spent shows too. I've released multiple Sara Thacker books this year and Sara York books. I have about five stories waiting review at various publishers for anthologies or are included in anthologies later this year. It's been a very productive year and it looks like next year will be just as productive.

Productivity is great. Speaking of, who designed the covers?

I've started doing cover design for my books. Both Princess Slave and Runaway Princess are book covers I designed. I love designing covers and it gives me an outlet to work on when I feel my writing is blocked. I'm currently working on a design for Smooth Lies, a thriller. It involves a hot Army guy and a sexy scientist being chased through the forests and mountains of Virginia.


Sexy scientist. You have my attention.

She had your attention at mm. Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer? If so, what are they?

Writing is hard work. Anyone can put words on a paper, but crafting a story that is good takes time. Then once it's crafted you have to edit the story. When you think you're done editing, keep editing. Edits should be painful and make you think about every word in a sentence. Don't make the mistake of thinking that one or two pass throughs of your story is editing enough. Keep working at it because eventually it gets easier.

Now for some fun questions. What animal do you think makes the best pet and why?

I love dogs but then again I'm deathly allergic to cats. So for me, dogs won't kill me by just being near. Our pug is crazy though. He came to us after being beaten and starved. Now he is the most loving dog in the word, but very neurotic when he has toys. We've had to strip our house of his toys on more than one occasion because he will hurt himself when he plays unless he's monitored very carefully.

Aww. Rescue dogs are the best, even when they’re being ornery. What were you doing at midnight last night?

Sleeping. I'm an early to bed kind of girl. But that means I'm up early. If I do happen to stay up past midnight It's not very pretty for others around me. It's best if I just go to sleep early and let everyone else stay up late.

Oh, well you’re the opposite of us. Have you ever eaten a crayon?

No, crayon and glue eating was highly discouraged in the school system I grew up in. We had a couple of very old teachers. I have no idea how old they were, but they were older than most teachers and they would smack you with a ruler if you even thought about putting anything in your mouth. I remember one poor kid got smacked several times a week when the year began, by the end of the year he had a desperate look in his eyes but he no longer consumed glue.

Ouch. Poor kid. What is your favorite animal?

I love dolphins. They are so intelligent and beautiful. I would love to do one of those swim with dolphins experiences. Now that my kids are older we'll probably do that at some point during a vacation. I also love gorillas. They are very intelligent creatures.

I’m not a big gorilla fan. Too hairy.

You don’t like men that are hairy. She doesn’t.
Shrugs. Have you ever cried during a movie? If yes, which one and why?

Are you kidding me? I've cried during commercials. The last movie I cried during was the final Harry Potter. I've read all the books. I knew what happened in the end and yet I still cried. I also cried during 127 hours at the end and so many more.

Well, we’re not the only ones to cry. Do you like thunderstorms?

I love thunderstorms, though I don't like the tornados that go with them. When the sky turns dark and the clouds roll in it's so exciting. I love the crackle of electricity in the air as the lightning starts to flash. The rain lashes at the windows and obliterates your view of the houses across the street. It's the chaos of the storm that I like the best. We haven't had rain in about two months here, so the next thunderstorm that blows through I'll be sitting front and center watching the huge clouds build and roll in.

It is a spectator sport. Can you tie a cherry stem in a knot?

Well yes. It's just one of those useful tongue tricks that all girls should know.

Do you want to know more about Sara York and her new book, Working It Out? Read on for the blurb! Buy Link at bottom or click the cover.

Passion and lust brings them together, what they don't expect is to fall in love.
Jake Grant is a sexy personal trainer not looking for anyone after his long-time partner passes away. He's ready to throw away his dreams by selling the gym just to get away from the ghost of his past. But once he meets Lance everything changes.

Lance Abbott is an orthopaedic surgeon who specializing in sports medicine and is completely in the closet. He is convinced that if his clients found out he was gay they would all leave his practice and he would have to abandon the work he loves. When he meets Jake, a man who is totally out, all of Lance’s perceptions about being “out” are challenged.

Passions and lust drive Lance and Jake together. But they soon find out their relationship is deeper than the physical heat between them. Can what they have last without anyone finding out? Or should Lance give up his insecurities and embrace Jake fully?

Buy!

Sunday Book Video ~ The Lighthouse ~ Kat Holmes

When Rachel Westmont inherits a lighthouse from an aunt she didn’t even know she
had, she’s overjoyed. The news couldn’t have come at a better time. Newly divorced from a self-serving doctor, the change of scenery is just what she needs. So she packs up and leaves California for a little island off the coast of Maine.
Rachel falls in love with both Star Island and the beautiful lighthouse and cottage she’s inherited. But, odd things begin to happen right from the first day. Cold chills permeate the cottage and books fly off the shelves. And someone seems to be playing pranks on her.

But when the ante gets upped and someone tries to kill her, Rachel must turn to hunky local sheriff Craig Lewis for protection. Now bodies are turning up, people are getting hurt, and Rachel is starting to suspect her aunt didn’t die a natural death. Can Craig stop a killer from claiming Rachel as their next victim? A little help from a ghost may be in order.

http://kathluvr130.blogspot.com
www.authorkatholmes.webs.com
****************************

Want to see your book commercial here? Email us at menagerieauthors@gmail.com to find out how!

So...It's Friday and I'm Chatting!!

I wasn't sure what to Blog about today, but hey, I thought, yanno, sometimes the MA peeps don't mosey over to my blog, so this is over there, too. Read on!

Fire Woman got a release date: September 23rd. I am stoked. Yes, I am. And wow, do things happen fast. But it's so good. I mean, it's exciting to know I've got something that will be published and not just on my site.

I did have a story that was kicked back, but yanno...I was, yes, I was upset about it initially. It was one of those not the right fit, thanks but no thanks rejections. Now, although I was bummed, it wasn't because I was angry. Far from it. In fact, I'm going to sub to this press in the future. Absolutely. What I struggled with was the lack of comments. What do I fix? What do I improve upon? Was there any of the story that was good? Now, before you get up in arms, cuz like I said, I was irked at first, look at it this way: presses are taking the work. They are offering the chance. If they don't want to work...then they don't have to. And it's ok. Why? Because they want what's ready, NOW. So mine wasn't ready now. Doesn't mean I should hate the press or get really pissed. Nope. It means I need to up my game and make sure the next sub is even tighter. It's a challenge and I love a challenge.

Speaking of challenges, the one I got from my friend, the 10k in 14 days. I did it. I won. Doesn't mean the book will be accepted. Heck, it could find the same fate as the above book. Happens. But, ah, you see, I have this plan. What one doesn't like/want, might be exactly what another might want/like. Happens all the time. So as much as I'm chewing my nails down in anticipation and am more than a little down about the above book, I know that it's not the total end. Faith. I've got some.

I was given another challenge. I know, right, lots of challenges...do these people ever sleep? Apparently not. But that's beside the point. So I was given the second challenge. 7k by Sept 23rd. I don't want to say easy peasy, cuz if the story doesn't flow, that 7k can be darned hard. But again, I don't back down. (yes, Tom Petty is so playing in my head). And I'm working on a shorty short for the Encounters line at Changeling.

I'm busier than heck, but I love it.

Check out my chat on Whipped Cream this weekend. Should be a blast. I'm up with Mysti at 6 pm on Sunday...unless the hurricane takes Mysti away. Let's hope it doesn't. See ya then!

Happy Hump Day!

Ooh! Soapy fun!!!

Monday Author Interview ~ J.P. Bowie

Today we’d like to personally introduce a talented author and one of Megan’s favourites, JP Bowie.

Heck, yeah, man. I love the Vampire Series. We’re glad you’re here. So, JP, where are you from?


I was born in Aberdeen on the Northeast coast of Scotland - a bloody cold spot on the map. I moved to London when I was 19 and got involved with theatre work as a singer. My partner at the time was offered a dancing job in Las Vegas so we pulled up stakes and headed west where I have remained ever since living alternately between California and Nevada.


So you’re near Kealie. Road trip!! *g* Now, tell us your latest news.

Yes. Dish!

Currently I have 3 books in various stages of being edited and proofed and I have been doing some audio work for Audiolark which keeps me very busy. Audio work is fun to do though, as it lets me use some of my theatrical tendencies - you know, you can’t keep a good drama queen down!

Oh so now we very much have to go hunt those down. A good voice always brings the book to life—especially if there’s a brogue. What inspired you to write your first book?

My first book A Portrait of Phillip came about after I’d read about a coma patient who suddenly woke up after 10 years - I thought, Wow, that must be an amazing experience, so I wrote the story based on a young artist who was gay-bashed and in a coma for 3 years. I thought 10 years was a bit excessive for the storyline. When he wakes up he finds his lover had died in the bashing, then with the aid of a hunky PI he discovers that it wasn’t a gay-bashing at all, but a deliberate plot to silence his lover. That one story developed into a six consecutive stories, which I’m happy to say are getting a whole new lease of life as ebook releases through MLR Press.

Wow. Now that’s some research and heart string pulling stuff. Since you’re talking about realism, how much of your books is realistic?

I have written 8 vampire stories, so although they could be called unrealistic, for me, and from the emails I get from readers, for them too, the characters in the books feel very real. Paranormal stories are favourites of mine, apart from zombies. Can’t quite get past all that drool and pus - ugh. Not something I’d want to kiss. But vampires have a special allure, and I enjoy writing about them. The good thing about vampires is that you make anything of them you want, as long as you don’t take away the supernatural aura that must exist. The beautiful hypnotic eyes, the superhuman strength and the undeniable sensuality they exude. Plus I like their vulnerable side - their need to be protected from sunlight and silver tipped weapons. Realistic? Yeah!

What do you mean they aren’t real? I live with three vampires. *g* Love them all, so they are real to me, too.

You keep collecting new ones, too. What I want to know is, who is your favourite character?

I have three of four favourite characters actually. Jeff Stevens, the private investigator from the Portrait series, Marcus Verano, the master vampire from My Vampire and I series, and Nick Fallon, another private investigator from the Nick Fallon Investigation series. All these guys have strengths and frailties. They can charge in like the cavalry at the eleventh hour, but they can also make mistakes which for me makes them endearingly human - yes, even the vampire! I recently added another favourite - Sergeant Jack Caruthers, an Aussie soldier featured in one of my recent novels, Nowhere to Hide. Jack’s the kind of guy you definitely want at your back in moments of crisis - and it doesn’t hurt that he’s easy on the eye and a great kisser!

Le sigh. Love a good kisser, especially if he’s hot.

Oh good grief. Stop or go fan yourself. Back to the interview. How many books have you written and which is your favourite?

I think I’m going on 46 books with three of four waiting in the wings. Some of those like Cruising and Lunches in Laguna are part of anthologies for Total-e-bound but most are single releases. A Portrait of Phillip was my first book and for that reason probably it’s my favourite. My Vampire and I was my first vampire story and still remains my pick of the series. In a way, it’s hard to just say “that’s my favourite”, because usually when I finish writing a story I’m pleased with it - like With a Little Help From My Friends and Trip of a Lifetime. I love the characters in both of those books.

With a Little Help was a favourite until I got a chance to devour the Vampire series. Hey, I’m a fan. And since I’m a writer, do you have any advice for other writers?

For new writers waiting for their first release I share their excitement. For those awaiting news of their first submission, I know what that feeling of dread is like. For those who have had their work rejected, I say there’s nothing like stick-with-it-ness. It’s the old adage, if at first you don’t succeed, etc. For those who receive a lousy review for the work they created, sweated and cried over for weeks or months, sometimes even years, just say, “Sod it!” and move on. A review is only one person’s opinion after all. And for those writers who give other writers lousy reviews I say, “Sod you!”

Can I say I am in love? Seriously. He got it totally right. I haven’t gotten my first review, as my book isn’t out yet, but I’m working on the thick skin aspect.

Yanno, I’m grinning, too. We’ve both been on the poor end of reviews, even if it’s for our free reads and we certainly know the sting of rejection/revision. But let’s move onto the fun stuff. What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten?

I had a boyfriend who was determined to get me to like sushi. I never fancied it, but you know when you’re keen on someone you go along with it, so...in we went to this quite expensive sushi place, and I did all right until the eel...OMG...I can still remember the godawful texture. The expression on my face must have been a picture. I spat it out into my napkin and said, “Let’s go!” The boyfriend was not impressed.

I’ll be right back. I’m going to be sick. Eel? Sushi? Shudder.

She’s got a weak stomach. Shrugs. When you looked in the mirror this morning, what was the first thing you thought?

What happened?

Now, now. You look fine. We both love the thunder. Do you like thunderstorms?

Love thunderstorms - we get some big ones in the desert that are truly awesome. I stand outside - I know, not clever - and let the rain pour down on me. I’ve actually used thunderstorms a couple of times in books.

Isn’t that what thunderstorms are for? Well, that and nookie, but...

Hush, you. She’s incorrigible. Can you tie a cherry stem in a knot?

Can’t everyone?

Yeah, then throw in a race to see who can first. That’s an icebreaker. Last question: What is your favourite animal?

Scottish terriers - I’m dogless at the moment but plan on fixing that soon. I had two Scotties, Angus and Sheena and they were the best dogs I ever had. So full of personality - no other dog could swagger like Angus could!

Awwwwww. We love dogs, too. Thanks for stopping by and for those interested in his book, Nowhere To Hide, here’s the blurb and the linky. Thanks JP and you’re always welcome to come back. We’ve got lots of room on the couch.

An American doctor meets an Australian soldier in the wilderness of Darfur, and soon their passion burns hotter than the desert sun.


Doctor Mark Hamilton working for Doctors Who Care International and stationed at a refugee clinic in Darfur, never thought he'd meet and fall in love with someone like Sergeant Major Jack -Boomer- Caruthers in the middle of the strife torn territory-nor could he ever imagine being sold as a sex slave to an exiled Prince!

Fortunately for Mark, it's Jack to the rescue. The two men make a daring escape into the desert and are picked up by Jack's team, but Mark ignores Jack's warning not to return to the clinic, with dire results.

Once again made captive by the slave traders, Mark can only cling to the hope that Jack's love for him is strong enough to face the dangers he will encounter in the vast deserts of Somalia.

Sunday Book Video ~ Ever Fallen in Love ~ Wendi Zwaduk

Tucker lost the love of his life once, but this time, he’s not taking no for an answer.

Once a driver, always a driver...

Racing consumes Tucker Poston’s life. Until he sees her again...Megan Rodney. She’s the one person to come between him and his ride. She’s the only woman to understand him. The only woman he’s ever loved. Circumstances tore their love apart. Now he’s determined to show her the contents of his soul, even if it means losing his heart.

Being a driver doesn’t warm his lonely nights. Too bad she’s not interested.

Megan’s not about to fall for his smooth lines and slick image. She’s got a good life as a team owner for a stock car team. Still, memories of their love affair burn bright in her mind. What’s a girl to do when the man of her dreams, the man who pushed her away, wants a second chance at forever?

Reader Advisory: This book contains a little spanking, anal play, and domination shared between former lovers, but no one’s complaining. For good measure, there’s the sizzling use of a Camaro hood for outdoor pleasure.

www.wendizwaduk.com
www.wendizwaduk.blogspot.com
http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=1325

Fridays with Megan ~ News!!!!

So I have news!!! I sold Fire Woman my elemental I've been yakking about for what seems like ever, to Changeling Press. I am super stoked as I love the press, love the books, and the people are a riot.

So what is Fire Woman?


It's a short blurb, and unedited, so bear with me.

She’s everything he needs...if he can withstand the burn.
Atria Moline isn’t your average photographer. She controls fire. Sounds fun, being able to scorch whenever you like? Think again. She’s lonely and desperate for the touch of the man who can dance in her flame—if she doesn’t immolate him first.

Zac “Iceman” Frost controls the stage with his band Glow. He’s not about to back down from Atria’s challenge. He’s got secrets of his own and his sights set on her.

Can they find love in each other’s arms before a threat from her past destroys their future?

Happy Hump Day!

Time for another sammich!!! Yes!!!

Author Interview ~ W. Lynn Chantale

On our couch this week is the fantastic, W. Lynn Chantale. Now I have to admit I was thrilled when she agreed to be come by. *g* So why don’t we start the interview?

Sounds good. Welcome W. Lynn. So, what were you doing at midnight last night?

Normally I’m asleep, but last night I was working on my latest WIP, I can’t get that darn plot right.


I know the feeling. I get that way. Then again, I find the boys for some research... Speaking of research, have you ever cried during a movie? If yes, which one and why?

I’ve cried during several movies, but the one that sticks out the most for me is Pay It Forward. Spoiler Alert! If you’ve never seen this movie you may want to skip to the next question. The movie is about a boy who is given an assignment in changing the world. And everyday Trevor, played by Haley Joel Osmet watches another classmate being bullied. After Trevor has done all these good things, gotten his entire community involved in paying it forward (for every good deed, you have to choose three strangers and do something nice for them), he decides to finally stand up for his classmate and in doing so gets stabbed and dies. I bawled my eyes out.

OMG, I cried, too. Love that movie. The ending...holy cow...okay, now you’ve got me blubbering...

Then let’s talk something fun. Do you like thunderstorms?

Only when my hubby is around, he provides a wonderful distraction. ;-o

That is the best distraction. *g* Can you taste the difference between Pepsi and Coke? If so, which do you prefer?

Ahh the great Coke or Pepsi debate. Yes I can tell the difference. Pepsi has a sweeter, slightly mellower taste, while Coke is a little more citrusy with more of a kick. I prefer Coke.

And here I prefer a brisk Dr. Pepper. So, are you a morning person or a night person?

I am most definitely a morning person. There’s something about being the first one up and listening to the quiet of a new day. Did you know I have a woodpecker outside my window? It’s taken nearly a month for me to realize that the sound wasn’t a birdcall. Anywho, I hear the birds serenading in the morning and it’s easier to concentrate.

You’re brave. Get either of us up early and you’ll probably see something you don’t to see. No, not a morning person. How about another fun question. As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?


Believe it or not I wanted to own a restaurant. I can remember being 5 or 6, grabbing my mother’s cookbook, and making up menus. I was going to own a French restaurant so there was plenty of Brioche, Coq au Vin, Vichyssoise, and Chocolat Mousse to go around.

She mentioned food. Now I’m hungry.

Me, too. Better ask another question. When did you write your first book and how old were you?

I wrote my first book entitled His Sister’s Keeper, in high school, so maybe 13 or 14 years old. It was my first attempt at a category romance and I thought I did a pretty fair job of it too. The manuscript sits on my hard drive waiting for the day I decide to dust it off and give it one more revision.

Hey, nothing wrong with getting out the old stuff. Sometimes it is revisable. Since we’re on books, what was the hardest part of writing your book?

For this I have to pick one book, because each book is different. The hardest part of writing Seducing His Wife were the love scenes. I had a heck of time writing any of the love scenes from the heroine’s point of view, but when I wrote from the hero’s point of view the words flowed like silk.

Yanno, sometimes that’s what you have to do. I look for whoever has the most to lose. But whatever works. What is your favorite character you’ve written (published or not)? Why?

I love all of my characters, each hold a special place in my heart, but my favorite character, by far and she’s yet unpublished is Trisha. I live and speak through her. She’s done so many things I wish I had the courage to do. Being rich doesn’t hurt either. :-)

Rich can be good or bad. Does help when you want to buy shoes... Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

I’d have to say yes. I have a short story in which the heroine cut her finger, then needs surgery to repair the tendon and a nerve. That happened to me earlier this year. Do you know how hard it is to type with one hand? My word count improved after a week of one hand typing. Although I try not to use too many experience from those outside my immediate family, but I also use events from the news, television, or snippets of overheard conversations.

Where can we find you on the web?

http://wlynnchantale-decadentdecisions.blogspot.com/
wlynnchantale@gmail.com email
@wlynnchantale-Twitter
http://www.facebook.com/pages/W-Lynn-Chantale/215880978444988

Want to know more about Seducing His Wife? Blurb Time!!!!

Haunted by nightmares, Sheridan Sinclair just wants to get through one night without reliving the terrible accident that led to her miscarriage. And she longs for the arms of the man who betrayed her. Matthew Sinclair has always loved his wife, but when she refuses to speak to him after her accident, he's left to wonder what went wrong. When a stolen kiss ignites their forgotten passion, he'll use their love as a means to get her home and in his bed again. Will a husband’s plan of seduction be enough to heal a wife’s broken heart?

And here are the buy links!

http://whispershome.com/erotic/seducing-his-wife/

Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Seducing-His-Wife-ebook/dp/B005DOZYRC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1311349014&sr=8-3

Mobipocket http://www.mobipocket.com/en/eBooks/searchebooks.asp?Language=EN&searchType=All&lang=EN&searchStr=seducing+his+wife

All Romance e-books, http://tinyurl.com/AllRomance

Sunday Book Video ~ Working It Out ~ Sara York

Passion and lust brings them together, what they don't expect is to fall in love.

Jake Grant is a sexy personal trainer not looking for anyone after his long-time partner passes away. He's ready to throw away his dreams by selling the gym just to get away from the ghost of his past. But once he meets Lance everything changes.

Lance Abbott is an orthopaedic surgeon who specializing in sports medicine and is completely in the closet. He is convinced that if his clients found out he was gay they would all leave his practice and he would have to abandon the work he loves. When he meets Jake, a man who is totally out, all of Lance’s perceptions about being “out” are challenged.

Passions and lust drive Lance and Jake together. But they soon find out their relationship is deeper than the physical heat between them. Can what they have last without anyone finding out? Or should Lance give up his insecurities and embrace Jake fully?

Want to see your book commercial here? Email us at menagerieauthors@gmail.com to find out how!

Reading, Writing, Revisions, Rejections and Bad Reviews

So we all get them. The dreaded R's (and a W). Ok, so some aren't so dreaded. But I happened by Wendi's blog and she got me thinking about a few things.

I haven't had a rejection in a while, not to say one isn't coming. I never count ye olde chickens.

So let's say you have this wonderful story. You've written on it for a long time and made it past step A. Step B--you send to the crit partner. You never know when that wonderful isn't exactly polished enough. That can be a super pain. But, I'd rather have Kealie tell me the story isn't ready rather than step C.

What's step C? The submission process. That's where I am at now. I've got to out in submission land. I'm hoping they aren't lost or worst...in the slush pile to be rejected. But that brings me to the next point.

For every submission, a little rain must fall. Rejection will happen. The dreaded step D. I know, here I am sounding so confident. I'm not. I'm skeered to death that even though I have a book under contract, that I have worked my tail off on the book, that it still won't be up to par. What do I do with rejection? Honestly, after a chunk of Godiva chocolate (milk chocolate, thank you very much), and a little teary action, I give myself a month and revise. If it's a thank you very much, but no thank you, well, I still revise but I look at secondary publishers.

So now I'm at step E. The revision. Not everyone will love what you wrote. Some editors will look at it and say, there's too much work to be done and I don't want to do that. Others might say, this story has no promise. Then there will be some who say, yanno, this is something I totally want to work with. We all want those editors. So I set myself a month. If the editor likes what he/she sees, but it's not quite there and the offer to revise is offered, then I give myself that month to get it revised per editor's instructions. Is it painful? Sometimes. Is it hard? Can be. But if you don't at least try, then you'll never know.

So it's been revised and resubbed. Once again to step D. The waiting and the hoping.

But let's skip ahead. Say the book has been accepted, edited and released. Now we're at the review stage. My take? Reviews are opinions. What that reader thought of your work on that given day. The reader could be having a crummy day. Could be stressed. Could be just not really interested in reading. Could be that your work is just what he/she is looking for. As much as I find it hard to adhere to this sometimes...you gotta swallow ye olde pride and just smile. Was it Monty Python that said, "Always look on the bright side of life"?



It's true. You might not like what they have to say, but really, it's an opinion. You'll never make everyone happy. Think about it this way. Taylor Swift. It seems like this girl can't put a foot wrong. Then look at the reviews on Amazon for her latest CD. Yeah, she's got some serious haters. Some are really more reviewing her as a person (which is a whole 'nother ball of wax), but as much as it's loved, the CD is not loved. Or take the Stephanie Meyer series. Twilight isn't a favorite of mine. Not a book I could get into. Check out the reviews. Either it's loved or hated. Do you think she or Taylor actually sit up at night worrying about reviews? Probably not. Why? They have boat loads of cash to count. I'm sure they don't want to be hated. No one does. But reviews, like opinions and individuality are parts of life.

So, follow old Monty Python. Always look on the light side of life. :::Whistling::::

Happy Hump Day!

My favorite way to wash a vehicle...male bum!!!

Author Interview ~ Lisa Beth Darling!

Today on our couch is the wonderful author, Lisa Beth Darling. Welcome Lisa. Always fun to have people stop by and chat. Let’s get down to the nitty gritty, since we’re here for an interview!

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

I was given my first creative writing assignment in 4th grade and I was hooked. I was instantly transported to a tiny world of my own creation. I knew that this was what was I was going to do the rest of my life. After that, whenever someone asked me "What do you want to be when you grow up?" I always said "A writer."?

I think we all said that. Well, no, I said I wanted to be a lion tamer, but that’s another story. When did you write your first book and how old were you?

I wrote my first full-length novel in 7th grade, it was titled "Save Me From the Roses" and was a full-on horror story with several erotic/romantic elements. No, my style hasn't changed very much over the years but I have honed my craft and I think it's gotten a bit better.

I’m sure it has. Now, if you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

Stephen King. I fell head over heels in love with a little story called "'Salem's Lot" when I was in 6th grade, I actually have a first edition paperback that I would (almost) kill to have signed. He drew me in with the first word and he never let me go. Here we are 30 something years later.


That’s fantastic. I have a first printing of a lot of his books. Some are older than I am. Hee hee. Can you share a little of your current work with us?

"The Heart of War" is a dark erotic paranormal romance featuring Ares God of War and Alena MacLeod, a half-Fey half-human woman who washes up on the shore of his secluded Greek island. When first meet Ares he's what you'd expect him to be; arrogant, brash, brooding, intimidating and above all sexy as…well…a Greek God! Alena is on the run from her husband, Cernunnos whom she was forced to marry at a very young age. As she piques his curiosity and his interest, he falls in love with her and she with him. They face many battles from within and from without in the form of Ares' Divinely Dysfunctional Family, the Olympians as well as facing Cernunnos together. By the end of the story hopefully the reader comes away with a little different perspective on Ares, what he's all about and why he does some of the rather terrible things he does.

Oh! I love mythology. Then again, I’d love to see Gerard Butler gussied up as Ares. Wink. How did you come up with the title?

I didn't come up with the title, the Muse did, he thought it was funny. "The Heart of War", of course refers to Ares' heart but it's also a little play on words using Sun Tzu's "The Art of War" as a springboard.

Gotta love when the muse is in the house. Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Hummm, I try not to do messages--those are for fables but I guess I'd like them to come away feeling that things aren't always what they seem and history doesn't always tell us the truth about events. I'd like them to come away believing that love really does conquer all and, most of all, bad boys need love too!

Absolutely. What are your current projects?

The current project is "Child of War-A God is Born" it's the two-part sequel to "The Heart of War". "Child of War-A God is Born" will release in early October, 2011 with the second half "Child of War-Rising Son" releasing in December, 2011. The last novel in the series "Spoils of War" will come out sometime in 2012.


Busy lady! Now down to the fun stuff. Who designed the covers?

I did! I do all of my book covers. At first it was a royal pain but as I stuck with it and learned more and more about PhotoShop it's really quite fun now.

I envy you. I so want to learn PhotoShop, but I don’t have the time. What do you think makes a good story?

Unique couples in conflict. Stories about your average John and Jane Doe don't interest me especially if they aren't doing anything terribly interesting. Boy Meets Girl, Boy Gets Girl, They Live Happily Ever After….boring! Give me some meat to go with those potatoes and gravy something I can chew on, taste, and digest. I love stories that aren't afraid to be right up in your face about things and that push the envelope as far as it will go.

Time for the questions that can be fun or embarrassing. What animal do you think makes the best pet and why?

Cats, definitely cats. I love dogs, I really do love *other people's dogs* and they love me but I've had two and they're a lot of work and they're needy and they think they're human. Cats are aloof, independent, they come to you on their terms when they want to be pet or fed and then leave you alone. Plus you don't have to pick up poop.

I love cats, but man, you have to clean out the litter box. That sucks. But dogs are loyal. Cats like to flick their tails, show you their heiny and stroll away. Mine does anyway. Do you hate how you look in pictures? Why or why not?

Oh Gods no! I am almost always behind the camera and hardly ever in front of it. I don't consider myself very photogenic, too many freckles, my nose is too long, and oh my are those wrinkles around my eyes!
We all have those, hon, but hey, someone has to take the pics. Boxers, briefs, boxerbriefs…. Or commando? Why?

Commando, baby. Easier access.

You read my mind. When you looked in the mirror this morning, what was the first thing you thought?

I try not to look in the mirror, not even when I brush my teeth and I don't ever wear any make up so I don't have to deal with that catastrophe. Only for a few seconds every morning as I'm brushing my waist-length hair and putting it in a ponytail for the day do I sneak a peek at my own reflection. I figure if I look like crap someone will tell me.

Long hair. Man, that’s work. I had long hair once. Cut most of it off. Too hot.


And you have me to tell you if you look like crap.

Ditto, Kealie. Now, what were you doing at midnight last night?

Sleeping! I'm a 'Pooh-Bah' (short for Pooh Bear) and we really like to be safe and comfy warm, all snuggly in our beds by 10pm. If not, we get cranky.

Which is the opposite of the Wild Women who figure sleep is overrated. What is your heritage?

American. People laugh when I say that but it's true, I am the definition of 'American' here goes: I am….Irish, Scottish, English, German, Portugese, Native American, with a smattering of Dutch back there somewhere. See? American, that's me.

Makes sense. Have you ever cried during a movie? If yes, which one and why?

Oh my yes. The older I get, the more ye olde hormones act up and the more I can cry at the drop of a hat! I always tear up when 'Spock' dies in Star Trek II, I bawl my eyes out at the end of "Beaches" but I cry the most at the end of "The Shawshank Redemption", 'Red' and 'Andy' are my heroes.

See? I am not the only one. Red and Andy rock! Speaking of movies that have massive thunderstorms, do you like thunderstorms?

When I was a kid I hated them, you could find me UNDER my bed at the very first sound of thunder or lightning strike and I would hide there until it was over shaking and terrified. Now, as an adult, I find them amazingly exhilarating. I love to watch them and go out and dance in them. Let them power wash over me, fill me, and take away all of my cares as it reminds me that I too am a powerful creature with a wild side.

And now for the most exciting question...can you tie a cherry stem in a knot?

Why, yes, yes, I can!

Where can we find your work?

FaceBook-Personal Page http://www.facebook.com/lisabeth1
FaceBook-(brand new!) FanPage http://www.facebook.com/lbdarling
Twitter: lb_darling
Blog: http://lbdarling.wordpress.com
Website: http://www.moonsmusings.com/lbdarling

Now about the book, Heart of War!
The Heart of War by Lisa Beth Darling
ISBN:978-0615424682
Pages: 516
Publisher Moon Mistress Publishing USA
Dark Erotic Paranormal Romance

Inside the Heart of every Warrior breathes the Soul of a Hero--even within The Heart of War.
Meet Ares God of War, the greatest Warrior the world has ever known. He's moody, grumpy, dominant, ravenously sexual, and above all, built like a Greek God.
Suspected of killing his Daughter in-Law, Psyche, and long in exile from Olympus, the solitude of Ares' secluded Greek Isle is interrupted when Magdalena MacLeod a plucky little Fey washes up on his shore after believing she's been shipwrecked. It's not mere fate that has brought the unlikely couple together yet it may be what tears them apart.
Branded with a golden chastity belt bearing the mark of Cernunnos, Celtic God of the Forest and Death, Alena has been on the run from her husband the Great Horned God for 200 years.
When the Olympians discover her presence on Ares' island, they send Apollo to the island while Ares is away with orders to bring her to Olympus. With nowhere to run and strikes a bargain with the God of War--her virginity for his protection.
Ares sees a sweeter deal; her in his bed and himself back in his rightful place on Olympus among the Gods. If it means turning Alena over to Zeus afterward, well that's of no consequence to him...is it?
After Alena proves herself to the God of War in battle and in his bed, the Ares must choose between his Divinely Dysfunctional Family, his pride, and Alena.
Get lost in this sweeping dark saga of lust, rage, revenge, and redemption. Battle Ancient Gods while falling in love with Ares God of War and Alena MacLeod. They share a love that will rock the world from the heights of Olympus to the Celtic moors.

Amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com/Heart-War-Lisa-Beth-Darling/dp/0615424686/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1293629750&sr=1-4


Kindle
http://www.amazon.com/The-Heart-of-War-ebook/dp/B004DCB3CA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1299524573&sr=1-1

Nook
http://productsearch.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?store=book&ATH=Lisa+Beth+Darling

You can find out more about this novel by going to http://www.moonsmusings.com/lbdarling/heartofwar

Sunday Book Video ~ My Vampire and I ~ J.P. Bowie

When a vampire takes a mortal for a lover, the union can be more than a mortal man could ever hope for. Wrapped in his immortal lover's arms he can be taken to the
heights of ecstasy, loved as he has never been loved, feel his soul soar high as the stars.

Every kiss, every touch is like no other he has ever felt before, and even the danger such a liaison brings cannot deter his longing to spend eternity at his vampire's side – to be a part of his existence for all time, and to face any adversity thrown their way.

These are the vows the mortals must make in the series – My Vampire and I.


Want to see your book commercial here? Email us at menagerieauthors@gmail.com to find out how!

Challenges!!!

Well...it's Finally Friday...the gang's all here. :-)

Sort of.

Ok, so I thought I'd talk about my week. See, I got this idear that it would be pretty cool to try to push myself to meet a deadline. I know. Crazy. But, I wanted to meet this deadline. I saw the call for submission and I thought, hey! That's what I write! I can do that.

So..... I pushed myself. Irritated my CPs (Wendi wanted to throttle me more than once) and begged the boys to help me research (they didn't mind a bit and went along gleefully). And...I got it turned in. I don't know if it's good enough. CPs all seem to think it's engaging and sexy. You know I can't write something sweet and syrupy without lots of sex.

But I mentioned this to a friend who threw down the gauntlet. She said, oh, so you did that sub. Are you going to do this one?

Uh... I dunno.

You should do it. I challenge you.

You all know I cannot back down from a challenge. Ask Kealie. So...10k in 14 days. It's not quite the Mysti/Kealie challenge of 2010, but hey, I'm not gonna back down.



What deadlines are you up against? Let me know so we can sweat together.

Happy Hump Day!

Just couldn't wait a second longer...