It pays to have clever friends.
And one of mine, Jinxie, had an awesome blog post the other day that I just had to share: Ten reasons why showerheads are better than men. Um, er, not that I'd know or anything.
An Interview with Dariel Raye
I 'met' Dariel Raye on one of the Wild Rose Press loops a few weeks ago and since I've been corresponding with her via email, I've learned not only is she a talented writer, she a very kind person.
So sit down and grab a cup of coffee--but not in that order ; ). You're in for a treat.
Tell me about when and how you started writing professionally.
Is there a point before Stephen King and Anne Rice-ism at which any writer feels “professional?” The summer my divorce was final, I took some time from work and set a few progressive goals: first, start writing again; second, actually finish the story; and third, publish it. After that, I read everything I could get about publishing.
Did you always want to write, or was your decision more of an epiphany?
I started writing when I was a child, so it was always a part of me. Actually publishing something I’d written was the epiphany part.
Where do you get inspiration for your characters/stories? Give examples from some of your stories.
Everywhere. Vashti’s Star was inspired by a dream, Raven’s Shelter was inspired by reading about the Got Wolf? Contest on The Wild Rose Press site, Aidan’s Will was inspired by a Black History event and a subsequent dream, and Jordan’s Wings was inspired in Bible study, to name a few.
Inspiration is everywhere. You just need to let your imagination go. Experts say we often build characters to fulfill our fantasies/desires. What characteristics do you desire in your main characters (hero/heroine)? Give examples from some of your stories.
The most important characteristics to me are loyalty and strength, even when the character is unaware of his/her own strength. I’ve noticed that my heroines are often “Steel magnolias” in that they appear to be fragile, but when love and crisis meet, strength emerges. In Vashti’s Star, Vashti often appears to be unstable to the reader, yet her steadfast love for Mark reveals loyalty and unexpected strength. My heroes have to be loyal, strong, and responsible, even when they don’t appear that way initially. Even when Raven in Taming of the Wolf – “Raven’s Shelter,” is in the clutches of his enemies, he’s more concerned about Karen than himself.
Those are some important characteristics. What do you find most fulfilling about writing?
Hearing or reading positive comments from readers.
What about the most challenging?
Dealing with the business aspects.
I’m sure you could write a book about this, but writing is a journey. What advice would you give to those just embarking on the journey?
You don’t have to be a literary genius, but please do brush up on your grammar. Remember – everything changes. There are resources for writers now that just a few years ago, we never would have dreamed. Take advantage of them (www, E-publishing, contests and conferences, etc.). Read everything you can about the publishing process, get started on a story or two while you’re still reading, keep reading while you’re writing, and plan to learn more about style and marketing as you go.
Good advice. What are some of your most cherished resources?
Harcourt, Brace, Jovanovich’s English Grammar and Composition is still one of the best, concise references in existence. I also have a book appropriately called Writing Clinic, by Kelly Nickell. In addition to reviewing the elements of fiction and non-fiction works, the author offers examples of query letters, synopses, and proposals.
Writing Clinic sounds good. I'll have to check it out. I'd have to add my favorite to your list: Eat, Shoots & Leaves by Lynne Truss. Any helpful hints on balancing self, work, family, and writing?
I haven’t found it, and perhaps it doesn’t exist for everyone. I always seem to be running to catch up, but for the most part, I enjoy everything I do. Unless it’s an absolute necessity, I say “no.” I guess that’s my hint: prioritize and focus your efforts on what matters most to you.
I think you're right. I have so many balls in the air, I know I'm going to drop a few now and then, I just try not to drop the same one two times in a row. What do you do to re-energize, restore, and recover?
Study the Bible (with reference books and all), visit my Mom and just hang-out, dote on my dogs, play and sing, dance, move from place to place while reading an entire novel (exciting, huh?), watch two movies back to back (this is really living, folks), prepare my favorite comfort foods (spaghetti or oysters).
Two movies back to back is a luxury. Tell me about your WIPs.
Jordan’s Wings is a novella about the descendants of disinherited fallen angels and the human women they fall in love with; Aidan’s Will is a full-length piece about the reincarnation of a former slave and her rescuer, a Native American who lost his life for her; Gabriel’s Keep, another full-length novel is also about a special angel who is on a frightening mission; and Dayspring is a futuristic full-length/possible series about a race of shifters and the human women destined to save the Earth from destruction.
They all sound wonderful, Dariel. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer all these questions.
You can find out more about Dariel by visiting her website and her story, Raven's Shelter is a part of the Taming of the Wolf anthology. Available now at the Wild Rose Press.
So sit down and grab a cup of coffee--but not in that order ; ). You're in for a treat.
Tell me about when and how you started writing professionally.
Is there a point before Stephen King and Anne Rice-ism at which any writer feels “professional?” The summer my divorce was final, I took some time from work and set a few progressive goals: first, start writing again; second, actually finish the story; and third, publish it. After that, I read everything I could get about publishing.
Did you always want to write, or was your decision more of an epiphany?
I started writing when I was a child, so it was always a part of me. Actually publishing something I’d written was the epiphany part.
Where do you get inspiration for your characters/stories? Give examples from some of your stories.
Everywhere. Vashti’s Star was inspired by a dream, Raven’s Shelter was inspired by reading about the Got Wolf? Contest on The Wild Rose Press site, Aidan’s Will was inspired by a Black History event and a subsequent dream, and Jordan’s Wings was inspired in Bible study, to name a few.
Inspiration is everywhere. You just need to let your imagination go. Experts say we often build characters to fulfill our fantasies/desires. What characteristics do you desire in your main characters (hero/heroine)? Give examples from some of your stories.
The most important characteristics to me are loyalty and strength, even when the character is unaware of his/her own strength. I’ve noticed that my heroines are often “Steel magnolias” in that they appear to be fragile, but when love and crisis meet, strength emerges. In Vashti’s Star, Vashti often appears to be unstable to the reader, yet her steadfast love for Mark reveals loyalty and unexpected strength. My heroes have to be loyal, strong, and responsible, even when they don’t appear that way initially. Even when Raven in Taming of the Wolf – “Raven’s Shelter,” is in the clutches of his enemies, he’s more concerned about Karen than himself.
Those are some important characteristics. What do you find most fulfilling about writing?
Hearing or reading positive comments from readers.
What about the most challenging?
Dealing with the business aspects.
I’m sure you could write a book about this, but writing is a journey. What advice would you give to those just embarking on the journey?
You don’t have to be a literary genius, but please do brush up on your grammar. Remember – everything changes. There are resources for writers now that just a few years ago, we never would have dreamed. Take advantage of them (www, E-publishing, contests and conferences, etc.). Read everything you can about the publishing process, get started on a story or two while you’re still reading, keep reading while you’re writing, and plan to learn more about style and marketing as you go.
Good advice. What are some of your most cherished resources?
Harcourt, Brace, Jovanovich’s English Grammar and Composition is still one of the best, concise references in existence. I also have a book appropriately called Writing Clinic, by Kelly Nickell. In addition to reviewing the elements of fiction and non-fiction works, the author offers examples of query letters, synopses, and proposals.
Writing Clinic sounds good. I'll have to check it out. I'd have to add my favorite to your list: Eat, Shoots & Leaves by Lynne Truss. Any helpful hints on balancing self, work, family, and writing?
I haven’t found it, and perhaps it doesn’t exist for everyone. I always seem to be running to catch up, but for the most part, I enjoy everything I do. Unless it’s an absolute necessity, I say “no.” I guess that’s my hint: prioritize and focus your efforts on what matters most to you.
I think you're right. I have so many balls in the air, I know I'm going to drop a few now and then, I just try not to drop the same one two times in a row. What do you do to re-energize, restore, and recover?
Study the Bible (with reference books and all), visit my Mom and just hang-out, dote on my dogs, play and sing, dance, move from place to place while reading an entire novel (exciting, huh?), watch two movies back to back (this is really living, folks), prepare my favorite comfort foods (spaghetti or oysters).
Two movies back to back is a luxury. Tell me about your WIPs.
Jordan’s Wings is a novella about the descendants of disinherited fallen angels and the human women they fall in love with; Aidan’s Will is a full-length piece about the reincarnation of a former slave and her rescuer, a Native American who lost his life for her; Gabriel’s Keep, another full-length novel is also about a special angel who is on a frightening mission; and Dayspring is a futuristic full-length/possible series about a race of shifters and the human women destined to save the Earth from destruction.
They all sound wonderful, Dariel. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer all these questions.
You can find out more about Dariel by visiting her website and her story, Raven's Shelter is a part of the Taming of the Wolf anthology. Available now at the Wild Rose Press.
My cover for AFTER HOURS
Today is Monday Pick-me up and I thought what better hunk to pick you up than the one on my new cover for AFTER HOURS~
Isn't he yummy?
Isn't he yummy?
A really good post.
Recently, I was talking with a good friend of mine about my publicity campaign for FIRST DATE. I mentioned that I was going to write a regular blog for today. After a pause, in which I could almost hear the wheels spinning in her head, she told me I should write a good blog, a really good blog. A blog that would draw readers and potential buyers to FIRST DATE.
Um, yeah.
Seriously folks? This friend is the bomb! She’s taken on the hat of virtual assistant (she printed me out a schedule so I wouldn’t forget where I was blogging during the week) in addition to the web-mistress garb she wears on a regular basis. Don’t laugh. The leather and that whip? Hot!
I can almost hear her telling me to stop going off on a tangent and get back to the blog, the really good blog. *tee hee*
So I’m going to write about pressure. (She’s going to kill me)
As a writer, you work your butt off to get published. It’s hard. In fact, it’s my personal opinion that most writers have a few screws loose because we love this. The constant rejection, the edits after edits after edits are all made worth it by a single “Wow! I loved it.”
However, the goal isn’t just the writing, or the publishing, it’s the selling. After you’ve found a publisher and it goes into production, you start wondering who is going to buy it. And, for me, here is where the pressure begins to mount. Some of us are natural-born salespeople. I am not.
I will be perfectly honest with you and say I was overwhelmed (blogs, reviews, interviews. Did I post that? Should I post that? Did I say too much? Too little? More revisions? Ack) but I was hanging in there until it came time to make the trailer.
By the way, hanging in there is subjective. My house is here somewhere under the clutter. And those bills? I’m not sure the vendors think that a looming deadline is a good excuse for not paying them.
*crack*
Did you hear that? I must be off on a tangent again.
Oh yes, the trailer. In attempting to make the trailer, I lost it. Bulging-eyeballs-ripping-hair-out lost it.
Voice in my head: “But you see, all your favorite books have trailers. It’s the thing to do, an excellent marketing tool, you want to sell your book don’t you? Well, don’t you? You better get on the ball!” And yes, the voice in my head talks in run-on sentences.
I couldn’t find the right music or the right pictures and quite frankly, I was getting frustrated. I couldn’t concentrate on the galley because I was so stressed about everything else I had to do. For me, the trailer was the straw that broke the publicity train. (Yeah, I know. I mixed it. I am not editing. So there.)
So what did I do? I gave myself permission to not have a trailer. Will I sell fewer books because of it? I don’t know. But this is my first publishing experience ever and I wanted to enjoy it. Letting myself off the hook regarding the trailer made all the difference in the world.
And you know what else I’m going to do? Tonight, I’m shutting off that inner voice that says I should be blogging or reading and commenting on them, and I’m watching a movie. Yeah, a movie. 17 Again. I haven’t watched a movie in over a month.
You might have all your ducks in a row and not have a problem with any part of the process. You might think the trailer part of it is a piece of cake and something else stumbles you. It might not even be promotion; it could be the editing process, submissions, queries.
I’d just remind you, whatever stage you’re in, don’t forget you. It’s true that pressure makes diamonds, but it also makes for a stressed-out person. (And, hello? I don’t know about you, but I’m not coal) It’s hard work, no doubt about it but if you’re not enjoying yourself, find out why and be sure to take some time out for you now and then.
Um, yeah.
Seriously folks? This friend is the bomb! She’s taken on the hat of virtual assistant (she printed me out a schedule so I wouldn’t forget where I was blogging during the week) in addition to the web-mistress garb she wears on a regular basis. Don’t laugh. The leather and that whip? Hot!
I can almost hear her telling me to stop going off on a tangent and get back to the blog, the really good blog. *tee hee*
So I’m going to write about pressure. (She’s going to kill me)
As a writer, you work your butt off to get published. It’s hard. In fact, it’s my personal opinion that most writers have a few screws loose because we love this. The constant rejection, the edits after edits after edits are all made worth it by a single “Wow! I loved it.”
However, the goal isn’t just the writing, or the publishing, it’s the selling. After you’ve found a publisher and it goes into production, you start wondering who is going to buy it. And, for me, here is where the pressure begins to mount. Some of us are natural-born salespeople. I am not.
I will be perfectly honest with you and say I was overwhelmed (blogs, reviews, interviews. Did I post that? Should I post that? Did I say too much? Too little? More revisions? Ack) but I was hanging in there until it came time to make the trailer.
By the way, hanging in there is subjective. My house is here somewhere under the clutter. And those bills? I’m not sure the vendors think that a looming deadline is a good excuse for not paying them.
*crack*
Did you hear that? I must be off on a tangent again.
Oh yes, the trailer. In attempting to make the trailer, I lost it. Bulging-eyeballs-ripping-hair-out lost it.
Voice in my head: “But you see, all your favorite books have trailers. It’s the thing to do, an excellent marketing tool, you want to sell your book don’t you? Well, don’t you? You better get on the ball!” And yes, the voice in my head talks in run-on sentences.
I couldn’t find the right music or the right pictures and quite frankly, I was getting frustrated. I couldn’t concentrate on the galley because I was so stressed about everything else I had to do. For me, the trailer was the straw that broke the publicity train. (Yeah, I know. I mixed it. I am not editing. So there.)
So what did I do? I gave myself permission to not have a trailer. Will I sell fewer books because of it? I don’t know. But this is my first publishing experience ever and I wanted to enjoy it. Letting myself off the hook regarding the trailer made all the difference in the world.
And you know what else I’m going to do? Tonight, I’m shutting off that inner voice that says I should be blogging or reading and commenting on them, and I’m watching a movie. Yeah, a movie. 17 Again. I haven’t watched a movie in over a month.
You might have all your ducks in a row and not have a problem with any part of the process. You might think the trailer part of it is a piece of cake and something else stumbles you. It might not even be promotion; it could be the editing process, submissions, queries.
I’d just remind you, whatever stage you’re in, don’t forget you. It’s true that pressure makes diamonds, but it also makes for a stressed-out person. (And, hello? I don’t know about you, but I’m not coal) It’s hard work, no doubt about it but if you’re not enjoying yourself, find out why and be sure to take some time out for you now and then.
Witty Wednesday
A few days ago, I was googling my book (I can be obsessive like that) I didn't find First Date but I did find this! From Mingle2 an online dating place:
9 Reasons Not to Date a Tyrannosaurus Rex
This site is full of funny! You'll also see why you shouldn't date a unicorn and the 8 phases of dating.
9 Reasons Not to Date a Tyrannosaurus Rex
This site is full of funny! You'll also see why you shouldn't date a unicorn and the 8 phases of dating.
Book Review: MIDNIGHT TREAT by Becca Simone
I downloaded Midnight Treat by Becca Simone a few days after it was released but didn't have the opportunity to read it until last night. I am so glad I did.
This book isn’t hot, it’s steaming… Seriously. Well-written, with splashes of humor, excellent characterization and a plot executed so well, I couldn’t put it down. I didn’t mention the HEA. Consider yourself warned. You will swoon.
Becca, you have a new fan. : ) There is a reason why it's #1 on the Wilder Rose Site.
Midnight Treat is a treat any time of the day! Highly, highly recommended.
Here is an excerpt:
Zorro hooked his hands under the frame and tugged upward. She gasped. He was coming inside! He swung his leg quietly over the windowsill, his foot touching carpet.
“You told me you were on the fifth floor,” he said as he swung his other leg inside and unfolded to his full height. His voice was deep and raspy. His white teeth flashed in the dim light as he grinned.
Oh. My. God. Zorro was in her apartment.
“I, ah—” He must have seen her through the window and thought she was the other Marie. Again. Her insides fluttered with possibilities.
Tell him! He stalked toward the bed like a wild animal hunting its prey. He eased the sword from its sheath and leaned over her, holding it above her face. She, Cassie Snow, was smack dab in the middle of another couple’s naughty fantasy. Her eyes widened and need pulsed between her legs. Tell him he’s in the wrong apartment!
“You said you like to be scared,” he growled, right before he clamped a hand over her mouth and pressed the back of her head into the pillow.
He held the long silver blade in front of her eyes. “Make a sound and you’re dead. Understand?”
She nodded and immediately stilled. She knew she should tell him he had the wrong girl. But she was always the wrong girl. Was it so horrible that she wanted to be the right girl for a change? Was it so wrong that she wished, just for one night, to be someone else? Someone who acted out naughty role-playing?
You can learn more about Becca on her website.
Midnight Treat is available at the Wilder Rose Press.
And the winners are...
Drum roll, please.
With the help of my DD, the winners are:
The $5 Starbucks gift certificate goes to: Helen Hardt
The winner of the Tickle N Taste body powder is: Crystal Posey
And finally the winner of the free download of First Date is: Cari Quinn
Congratulations to all of you and thank you everyone for playing!
Helen and Crystal, please email me your address! Cari, let me know the email you want me to send First Date to!
With the help of my DD, the winners are:
The $5 Starbucks gift certificate goes to: Helen Hardt
The winner of the Tickle N Taste body powder is: Crystal Posey
And finally the winner of the free download of First Date is: Cari Quinn
Congratulations to all of you and thank you everyone for playing!
Helen and Crystal, please email me your address! Cari, let me know the email you want me to send First Date to!
New Contest
You glance at the clock wondering if the minute hand is broken and suddenly there it is, the doorbell rings. Instantly your hands are clammy and you feel a bit queasy. Did you wear the right outfit? Does your make-up still look okay? You take a deep breath, close your eyes and open the door.
There he is, still as drop dead gorgeous, holding a bouquet of daisies and sporting a goofy grin. Your heart melts, he remembered your favorite flower.
“Are you ready?"
And boy are you ever.
Okay, I’ve never had a first date like this one…
I have had some pretty awful ones. One year, this guy asked me out for Valentines.
He was the lead singer of a band that played in my garage.. Hawt, I know, right? : ) I'd known him in highschool, okay I had a major crush on him but so did half the other girls in school. I was so excited. I mean the guy everyone lusted over in highschool was going out with me! Well, he came to the door with a single rose and a huge smile... the rose was fake... and he didn't know it was fake. He was quite surprised when I didn't put it in a vase... Yeah, I pretty much knew right then and there that it would also be the last date.
In my Rosette, First Date, Bret spends a part of the book wondering how he is going to ask Jill on a First Date. He, uh, never quite gets around to it.
So tell me about your First Date. It can be your first date ever or the first date with your significant other. Good, bad or neutral.
On Monday, October 19th, I’ll pick 3 winners! One commenter will win a copy of First Date, another lucky commenter will win a jar of Tickle and Taste body powder and another will win a $5 gift card to Starbucks. Good luck!!!
And the winner is...
Kaily Hart! Yay! Congratulations. Kaily, please email me Lynne @ lynneroberts.net where you want me to send the download of First Date!
Thank you every one for participating. There were interesting, sweet, funny and kinda gross stories of first kisses. : ) You all rock.
Without further ado, your Witty Wednesday:
Thank you every one for participating. There were interesting, sweet, funny and kinda gross stories of first kisses. : ) You all rock.
Without further ado, your Witty Wednesday:
An Interview
I feel so grown-up ; )
Today, I'm over at Romance by Catherine.
Catherine Bybee is a fellow TWRP author and a vivacious, giving person who has generously offered to interview me.
If you've read KILT WORTHY then you're aware of her talent!
Any commenter, here or on Catherine's blog, will be entered in the First Kiss Contest and eligible to win a copy of FIRST DATE.
Winners will be announced Wednesday, Oct. 14th (tomorrow)
Today, I'm over at Romance by Catherine.
Catherine Bybee is a fellow TWRP author and a vivacious, giving person who has generously offered to interview me.
If you've read KILT WORTHY then you're aware of her talent!
Any commenter, here or on Catherine's blog, will be entered in the First Kiss Contest and eligible to win a copy of FIRST DATE.
Winners will be announced Wednesday, Oct. 14th (tomorrow)
Popping the Publishing Cherry New Contest! First Kiss
There can only be one first time.
You stare into his eyes and suddenly you know its coming. Your heart speeds and time slows. Your gaze darts to his lips; soft and full, you imagine them on yours and a thrill of pleasure warms your body before you return your gaze to his eyes.
I think good or bad...
everyone remembers his or her first kiss. The tension: will he won’t he? Are my lips chapped? Breath okay? Will his breath be okay?
LOL It’s as nerve-wracking as it is thrilling.
Even if it’s not your first kiss ever, the first kiss between two people is special, in a sweaty palms, heart racing kind of way.
Today, I’m going to ask you to share your first kiss. It can be the first kiss you ever experienced or the first kiss with your current significant other. If you want to share your favorite fictional first kiss, or just say hi, that’s fine too. One lucky commenter between now and Wednesday, Oct 14, will win an electronic copy of FIRST DATE.
Me first?
I was fifteen and beginning to believe I’d be sweet sixteen and never been kissed when it finally happened. I was kind of going out with a senior. Tall, blond and charming, I was hooked. We were talking after school. A friend of his came to pick him up on a motorcycle. He got on the back and he leaned down to give me a hug. Out of the blue he kissed me right before he drove away.
LOL Not terribly romantic, I know. So now it's your turn. ; )
You stare into his eyes and suddenly you know its coming. Your heart speeds and time slows. Your gaze darts to his lips; soft and full, you imagine them on yours and a thrill of pleasure warms your body before you return your gaze to his eyes.
I think good or bad...
everyone remembers his or her first kiss. The tension: will he won’t he? Are my lips chapped? Breath okay? Will his breath be okay?
LOL It’s as nerve-wracking as it is thrilling.
Even if it’s not your first kiss ever, the first kiss between two people is special, in a sweaty palms, heart racing kind of way.
Today, I’m going to ask you to share your first kiss. It can be the first kiss you ever experienced or the first kiss with your current significant other. If you want to share your favorite fictional first kiss, or just say hi, that’s fine too. One lucky commenter between now and Wednesday, Oct 14, will win an electronic copy of FIRST DATE.
Me first?
I was fifteen and beginning to believe I’d be sweet sixteen and never been kissed when it finally happened. I was kind of going out with a senior. Tall, blond and charming, I was hooked. We were talking after school. A friend of his came to pick him up on a motorcycle. He got on the back and he leaned down to give me a hug. Out of the blue he kissed me right before he drove away.
LOL Not terribly romantic, I know. So now it's your turn. ; )
Contest Announcement
A huge thank you to all of you who made my debut so fun but it's not over yet! 
To celebrate my debut release, First Date, I'm hosting a contest starting tomorrow.
10/12/09. On 10/14/09, I will randomly select the name of one lucky commentator to win a free download of First Date.
I hope to see you there!
~ Lynne
To celebrate my debut release, First Date, I'm hosting a contest starting tomorrow.
10/12/09. On 10/14/09, I will randomly select the name of one lucky commentator to win a free download of First Date.
I hope to see you there!
~ Lynne
Releasing Today! FIRST DATE by Lynne Roberts (that's me)
POP! POP! POP!
Do you know what that sound is? It's the champagne being uncorked! What did you think I was going to say? ; )
Yes. Today is the day! *happy dance*
Come on in! The champagne is flowing! The chocolate bar is over there. Cool fountain, huh? Did you really think there wouldn't be chocolate at my very first release party? I mean next to coffee, it's my favorite addiction. ; ) In my opinion, chocolate should always flow as freely as champagne.If you'd rather have a cup of coffee, please help yourself. Plenty of food, too! You really should try the cherries dipped in chocolate or whipped cream. The mini cherry cheesecake is also divine.
Around here somewhere, oh, there he is.
Let's not forget while we're here. : )
The Real Estate market is about to heat up.When Bret Jacob walks into Jill’s real estate office, she attempts to maintain a professional demeanor, but memories of accidental voyeurism in high school, years of what-if’s, and Bret’s drop-dead sexy grin only serve to ignite her fantasies.
Bret needs a farm for his growing landscape business. When he sees Jill Daniels’ picture in a real estate ad, he can’t believe his eyes: The shy girl from high school has blossomed into a desirable woman. Ten years ago, she didn’t stir his blood and drive away all rational thought; now, he’s fighting the urge to take her in his arms long enough to ask her on a first date.
Today, talented writer and all around wonderful person, Cari Quinn, has me on her blog. I'm going to be talking about the joys and pitfalls of being a first time published author. There is only one first time. Please join me there.
Below is an excerpt of First Date!
Tiffany lowered her voice to a breathy growl, “Is he about six-foot, dark blond hair and...” She sucked air through her teeth, “has a wicked, sexy grin?”
That sounded about right. “Yes.” A flush of heat spread over her body, warming her skin and tightening her nipples into small aching nubs.
“He’s here and, darlin’, that one is yummy. If you don’t go for it, I will.”
Jill shot Tiffany the dirtiest look she could manage. “This is a real estate office, not a bar.”
Her friend only laughed. “All the better. Well, go on. He looks like he might have just what you need.”
Oh, I know he does. Jill stood and smoothed down her skirt, thanking God for Victoria’s Secret and lined bras, then stepped out from behind the partition.
Bret stood inside the door, and she drank him in. His white button-down shirt opened at the neck, accentuating his square jaw and doing nothing to disguise his well-muscled chest. Faded denim wrapped long powerful legs, and she forced her gaze not to linger on the pronounced bulge between them, her mouth filling with saliva at the thought of what lie beneath the denim like a present waiting to be unwrapped. He was tall, muscular and comfortable in his own skin. She’d bet he’d never had an awkward moment in his life. If anything, he looked better than he had in high school.
She blinked, breaking the spell and walked forward, extending her hand. “Good morning.” Her voice quivered a little. “I’m Jill Daniels.”
His hand enfolded hers, his fingers warm and slightly calloused. The contact pebbled her skin, sending shivers rippling over her body.
“I remember you.”
Deep and seductive, his voice caressed her body like a physical touch, sending a jolt of pure need straight to her core. He remembers me? Bret released her hand and Jill rubbed a thumb over her now-tingling palm, her skin awake and yearning for those roughened hands to touch more.
Bret’s brilliant gray-blue eyes were now creased at the corners and golden highlights lightened his sandy brown hair as though he spent a lot of time outdoors.
The slow, sexy smile hadn’t changed. If anything, it had gained potency.
“I’m Bret Jacobs,” he added.
She reminded herself to smile. “I remember you, too.”
“Well, good, I was afraid...” He left the thought unfinished.
Did he honestly think anyone would forget him? And was that a blush? Did he remember the party too? He couldn’t. The image of Bret she occasionally used for her late-night showers filled her mind and a shockwave of desire stole her breath. Oh, God, she should have brought a change of underwear.
Bret smiled and Jill’s heart dropped into her stomach.
“So, are you ready?” he asked.
More than you’ll ever know. “Yes.”
Thank you so much for coming! Don't forget to check out my first ever guest blog over at Cari's blog and next week's contest. I'll be giving away all kinds of goodies!
Release Day Eve
Well, tomorrow my first book comes out. Before it even hits the cyber shelves, there are some people I want to thank.
You know, no writer works alone, and I’ve been lucky to have some pretty wonderful people help me get FIRST DATE into publishable form.
In more or less chronological order:
Thank you:
Jennifer. I loved your blog; I loved your stories and not only did you inspire me to try my hand at it, you took the time to read what I had written. I’m not sure you realize how much your encouragement meant to me but this book, and this moment in my life, would not exist without you.
Carlos. I know it’s not exactly what you imagined me writing, but thanks for being there and editing each draft as I found my way in this new world of erotic romance.
Jessica. It’s not every daughter that can read her mother’s erotic work. Thanks for being my first fan and my friend.
Crystal. Your enthusiasm is catchy and makes me feel like a writer. You have gone a long way to making this easier and way more fun for me.
Jason. Sometimes “wood” is the best comment a girl could ask for. Thank you for the male perspective. Muchly appreciated.
Wookiesgirl. You make me smile! Your appreciation for my work gives me confidence.
Jinx. The fact that you keep reminding me that you haven’t read FIRST DATE, and want to, has erased a misgiving or two. So have you read it yet? ; )
Werecat. Girl, you rock. Your edits are spot on and your joie de vivre is something I completely admire.
Lori. I’m just going to get out there on the limb and say you kick ass. I know the saying goes, ‘you had me at hello’ but I'm glad I hooked you right before ‘the end’ ; ) I am so grateful that you found something in my work worth pursuing. I couldn’t have chosen a better editor to guide me through my first time.
Last but not least: You! Yes, you! The one reading this blog. Thank you so much for being there. You are the why of all of this. I sincerely hope you enjoy FIRST DATE, and if you do, that you'll let me know.
THANK YOU
~Lynne
You know, no writer works alone, and I’ve been lucky to have some pretty wonderful people help me get FIRST DATE into publishable form.
In more or less chronological order:
Thank you:
Jennifer. I loved your blog; I loved your stories and not only did you inspire me to try my hand at it, you took the time to read what I had written. I’m not sure you realize how much your encouragement meant to me but this book, and this moment in my life, would not exist without you.
Carlos. I know it’s not exactly what you imagined me writing, but thanks for being there and editing each draft as I found my way in this new world of erotic romance.
Jessica. It’s not every daughter that can read her mother’s erotic work. Thanks for being my first fan and my friend.
Crystal. Your enthusiasm is catchy and makes me feel like a writer. You have gone a long way to making this easier and way more fun for me.
Jason. Sometimes “wood” is the best comment a girl could ask for. Thank you for the male perspective. Muchly appreciated.
Wookiesgirl. You make me smile! Your appreciation for my work gives me confidence.
Jinx. The fact that you keep reminding me that you haven’t read FIRST DATE, and want to, has erased a misgiving or two. So have you read it yet? ; )
Werecat. Girl, you rock. Your edits are spot on and your joie de vivre is something I completely admire.
Lori. I’m just going to get out there on the limb and say you kick ass. I know the saying goes, ‘you had me at hello’ but I'm glad I hooked you right before ‘the end’ ; ) I am so grateful that you found something in my work worth pursuing. I couldn’t have chosen a better editor to guide me through my first time.
Last but not least: You! Yes, you! The one reading this blog. Thank you so much for being there. You are the why of all of this. I sincerely hope you enjoy FIRST DATE, and if you do, that you'll let me know.
THANK YOU
~Lynne
Witty Wednesday
And don't forget:
Yes, 2 days and counting until October 9th, release day for First Date!
And one more thing. : )
Helen Hardt's Black Rose, Blood Wolf, also releases this Friday. Helen is a talented writer! Be sure to check it out!
*update* Click on Helen's name for the link to her blog. For some reason the link is staying the same color as the the text -- at least on my computer)
All in a Day's Work.
I don’t know about you, but when I tell people that I’m a writer, I get one of two reactions. Either they tell me they have a book they’ve always wanted to write, or they nod their head sagely. What does that mean? I don't know. I stopped trying to figure it out.
I have to pick up my preschooler at 10:45 every day. I drop her off at 8:00; I have that much time to write and so I do. The other day, I am heading at breakneck speed toward the inevitable hot and heavy between my hero and my heroine (and can I say it’s about time, the tension has been thick in the air for the last several chapters) when I remember, out of the blue, library books are due and I haven’t found the missing library book yet. My fingers pause mid-sentence; I glance at the clock, back to the words on the screen, back to the clock and sigh. There is just not enough time. My poor characters, it's damn close to coitus interruptus. I mean they've been waiting for this moment and they. are. so. close.
‘I’m sorry, characters’, I plead, ‘a library fine is a library fine. Can you, um, hold position until I get back?’
‘Tease’, they growled, voices still ragged from shared passion. They might have said something else but I saved and diminished the document before further guilt could be heaped upon my head.
So now I have something new to tell those people who ask what it’s like to be a mother and a erotic romance writer: The distance between your hero’s lips finding the heroine’s breast to looking frantically for the Saggy Baggy Elephant is surprisingly short.
I have to pick up my preschooler at 10:45 every day. I drop her off at 8:00; I have that much time to write and so I do. The other day, I am heading at breakneck speed toward the inevitable hot and heavy between my hero and my heroine (and can I say it’s about time, the tension has been thick in the air for the last several chapters) when I remember, out of the blue, library books are due and I haven’t found the missing library book yet. My fingers pause mid-sentence; I glance at the clock, back to the words on the screen, back to the clock and sigh. There is just not enough time. My poor characters, it's damn close to coitus interruptus. I mean they've been waiting for this moment and they. are. so. close.
‘I’m sorry, characters’, I plead, ‘a library fine is a library fine. Can you, um, hold position until I get back?’
‘Tease’, they growled, voices still ragged from shared passion. They might have said something else but I saved and diminished the document before further guilt could be heaped upon my head.
So now I have something new to tell those people who ask what it’s like to be a mother and a erotic romance writer: The distance between your hero’s lips finding the heroine’s breast to looking frantically for the Saggy Baggy Elephant is surprisingly short.
Contest Announcement
There can only be one first time and I'd like for you to be there!
Hey, I almost forgot! Your Monday pick me up. FIRST DATE is so hot, you might just need this guy. ; )
Hey, I almost forgot! Your Monday pick me up. FIRST DATE is so hot, you might just need this guy. ; )
I have a release date!
Happy October everyone! The temperature is finally cooling down. I even saw some leaves drifting from the trees yesterday. Yes, folks, it's fall and this fall, my first ever book is being released! YAY!
October 9, 2009, The Wilder Rose Press will release FIRST DATE and you are invited to join me as I pop my publishing cherry!
The Real Estate market is about to heat up.
When Brett Jacob walks into Jill’s real estate office, she attempts to maintain a professional demeanor, but memories of accidental voyeurism in high school, years of what-if’s, and Bret’s drop-dead sexy grin only serve to ignite her fantasies.
Bret needs a farm for his growing landscape business. When he sees Jill Daniels’ picture in a real estate ad, he can’t believe his eyes: The shy girl from high school has blossomed into a desirable woman. Ten years ago, she didn’t stir his blood and drive away all rational thought; now, he’s fighting the urge to take her in his arms long enough to ask her on a first date.
Excerpt
Tiffany lowered her voice to a breathy growl, “Is he about six-foot, dark blond hair and...” She sucked air through her teeth, “has a wicked, sexy grin?”
That sounded about right. “Yes.” A flush of heat spread over her body, warming her skin and tightening her nipples into small aching nubs.
“He’s here and, darlin’, that one is yummy. If you don’t go for it, I will.”
Jill shot Tiffany the dirtiest look she could manage. “This is a real estate office, not a bar.”
Her friend only laughed. “All the better. Well, go on. He looks like he might have just what you need.”
Oh, I know he does. Jill stood and smoothed down her skirt, thanking God for Victoria’s Secret and lined bras, then stepped out from behind the partition.
Bret stood inside the door, and she drank him in. His white button-down shirt opened at the neck, accentuating his square jaw and doing nothing to disguise his well-muscled chest. Faded denim wrapped long powerful legs, and she forced her gaze not to linger on the pronounced bulge between them, her mouth filling with saliva at the thought of what lie beneath the denim like a present waiting to be unwrapped. He was tall, muscular and comfortable in his own skin. She’d bet he’d never had an awkward moment in his life. If anything, he looked better than he had in high school.
She blinked, breaking the spell and walked forward, extending her hand. “Good morning.” Her voice quivered a little. “I’m Jill Daniels.”
His hand enfolded hers, his fingers warm and slightly calloused. The contact pebbled her skin, sending shivers rippling over her body.
“I remember you.”
Deep and seductive, his voice caressed her body like a physical touch, sending a jolt of pure need straight to her core. He remembers me? Bret released her hand and Jill rubbed a thumb over her now-tingling palm, her skin awake and yearning for those roughened hands to touch more.
Bret’s brilliant gray-blue eyes were now creased at the corners and golden highlights lightened his sandy brown hair as though he spent a lot of time outdoors.
The slow, sexy smile hadn’t changed. If anything, it had gained potency.
“I’m Bret Jacobs,” he added.
She reminded herself to smile. “I remember you, too.”
“Well, good, I was afraid...” He left the thought unfinished.
Did he honestly think anyone would forget him? And was that a blush? Did he remember the party too? He couldn’t. The image of Bret she occasionally used for her late-night showers filled her mind and a shockwave of desire stole her breath. Oh, God, she should have brought a change of underwear.
Bret smiled and Jill’s heart dropped into her stomach.
“So, are you ready?” he asked.
More than you’ll ever know. “Yes.”
Please join me all this month. We're going to pop the publishing cherry with style.-- ; )
I'll be having several contests and, I hope, a whole lot of celebrating.
October 9, 2009, The Wilder Rose Press will release FIRST DATE and you are invited to join me as I pop my publishing cherry!
The Real Estate market is about to heat up.When Brett Jacob walks into Jill’s real estate office, she attempts to maintain a professional demeanor, but memories of accidental voyeurism in high school, years of what-if’s, and Bret’s drop-dead sexy grin only serve to ignite her fantasies.
Bret needs a farm for his growing landscape business. When he sees Jill Daniels’ picture in a real estate ad, he can’t believe his eyes: The shy girl from high school has blossomed into a desirable woman. Ten years ago, she didn’t stir his blood and drive away all rational thought; now, he’s fighting the urge to take her in his arms long enough to ask her on a first date.
Excerpt
Tiffany lowered her voice to a breathy growl, “Is he about six-foot, dark blond hair and...” She sucked air through her teeth, “has a wicked, sexy grin?”
That sounded about right. “Yes.” A flush of heat spread over her body, warming her skin and tightening her nipples into small aching nubs.
“He’s here and, darlin’, that one is yummy. If you don’t go for it, I will.”
Jill shot Tiffany the dirtiest look she could manage. “This is a real estate office, not a bar.”
Her friend only laughed. “All the better. Well, go on. He looks like he might have just what you need.”
Oh, I know he does. Jill stood and smoothed down her skirt, thanking God for Victoria’s Secret and lined bras, then stepped out from behind the partition.
Bret stood inside the door, and she drank him in. His white button-down shirt opened at the neck, accentuating his square jaw and doing nothing to disguise his well-muscled chest. Faded denim wrapped long powerful legs, and she forced her gaze not to linger on the pronounced bulge between them, her mouth filling with saliva at the thought of what lie beneath the denim like a present waiting to be unwrapped. He was tall, muscular and comfortable in his own skin. She’d bet he’d never had an awkward moment in his life. If anything, he looked better than he had in high school.
She blinked, breaking the spell and walked forward, extending her hand. “Good morning.” Her voice quivered a little. “I’m Jill Daniels.”
His hand enfolded hers, his fingers warm and slightly calloused. The contact pebbled her skin, sending shivers rippling over her body.
“I remember you.”
Deep and seductive, his voice caressed her body like a physical touch, sending a jolt of pure need straight to her core. He remembers me? Bret released her hand and Jill rubbed a thumb over her now-tingling palm, her skin awake and yearning for those roughened hands to touch more.
Bret’s brilliant gray-blue eyes were now creased at the corners and golden highlights lightened his sandy brown hair as though he spent a lot of time outdoors.
The slow, sexy smile hadn’t changed. If anything, it had gained potency.
“I’m Bret Jacobs,” he added.
She reminded herself to smile. “I remember you, too.”
“Well, good, I was afraid...” He left the thought unfinished.
Did he honestly think anyone would forget him? And was that a blush? Did he remember the party too? He couldn’t. The image of Bret she occasionally used for her late-night showers filled her mind and a shockwave of desire stole her breath. Oh, God, she should have brought a change of underwear.
Bret smiled and Jill’s heart dropped into her stomach.
“So, are you ready?” he asked.
More than you’ll ever know. “Yes.”
Please join me all this month. We're going to pop the publishing cherry with style.-- ; )
I'll be having several contests and, I hope, a whole lot of celebrating.
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