Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Yay! A new release to send off 2009


I'm so so so excited. Whoo hooo! Settler's Mine 5: The Man is available.

Blurb: Colton returns to Settler’s Mine searching for his mate who he’d abandoned years before. He’d been on his way earlier, but once he and Larkin mated, they couldn’t keep their hands to themselves and it delayed his trip.

Michipi has made a new life for herself at Settler’s Mine and doesn’t want to trust Colton again, no matter how sincere he seems. Especially with his new mate receiving all the perks of the heartstone glow that she never got.

While Michipi enjoys being the subject of being two men’s desires and what they have to offer, however good they both are she can’t get past Colton’s past betrayal and denies the future of their mating. When an old enemy resurfaces to make an attempt on Colton's life, Michipi is forced to realize that she needs both men in her life. But has the knowledge come too late, and at too high a cost?

To read an excerpt!

May the muse have The Man
Mechele

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Kittens and plotting


All things are possible toys to a kitten. The crinkly paper flowers come wrapped in. The flowers. The leaves. The vase.

Yes, we've had a couple of accidents already this morning. I'm going to lunch with friends, so bought a hostess gift (flowers) along with my potluck offering (fruit). Within 10 minutes of turning my back, the grapes had become soccer balls and the flowers were spilled on the floor. No vase breakage, thank goodness. The Paw of Destruction (a.k.a. Pandora the kitten) just looked at me like I was insane to yell at her. "Toys! Shiny, noisy toys! And small round objects just MADE for play!"

I believe that animals do know right from wrong in the sense that they know what displeases us humans. But kittens don't care yet what pleases or displeases us. Unlike puppies, who are social, kittens really don't care what their humans think. The only time it matters is when what the humans wants coincide with what the kitten wants. Then it's important.

I'm reminded of this while I write, too (yes, you knew this would come around to writing, didn't you?) I've been making good progress on my current W.I.P. but lately I got a bit bogged down (my current W.I.P is the prequel to the book shown here). I was trying to move the characters around on the stage, making sure they got to Point A by a certain time in the plot. It just didn't feel right. They felt wooden, recalcitrant, like they were resisting. Sort of like a kitten when ...

Yep. I was trying to impose my idea of what was correct behavior on the characters I created. And what I thought was right (for the plot) was totally out of character for the character.

Scrap that chapter (oh, I'll save it for later cannibalism) and back to the drawing board. Like kittens, I have to let my characters grow and develop. Maybe at some point our ideas will intersect.

Until then...oops. I hear a noise. I think I may need to clean up some more flower spillage.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

New Release TODAY!




Sweet Charity, book 3 in the Project Alpha trilogy, is now available from Ellora’s Cave Publishing.



BLURB:

Third in the Project Alpha series

Earth 2133

Adrian is an Alpha—a genetically enhanced assassin—thought dead by the people who created him. Living outside the Gate, a high tech shield that protects the enclosed city from the contaminated and lawless land outside, he is the leader of the Resistance, living only to bring down the Gate and the people who sought to kill him.

Charity Caruthers is the daughter of one of the most powerful and brutal men in the inner city—the General. She risks everything sneaking outside the Gate to get a message to Adrian.

Passion explodes, ripping apart the foundations of both their lives. Charity begins to understand true sexual desire as Adrian teaches her the passion to be found in dark fantasies. Loyalties are tested and trust pushed to the limits as the final confrontation is at hand. Some will die. Some will live. And Adrian and Charity’s fragile relationship could be the final casualty in this war of retribution and freedom.

Project Alpha: Futuristic assassins on a deadly course with love. Books 1 and 2—Embracing Silence and Have Mercy—are now available.

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Are authors allowed to write from their imaginations any more?

I’ve had a few fan emails recently that made this a very interesting question.

The first one was a few months ago from a woman who said she enjoyed both my erotic and non erotic books and thought my F/F scenes were very authentic, but wanted to ensure I was a lesbian for her to continue reading my books. I thanked her for her kind comments, but told her I was happily married to a man. She told me (sadly, she assured me) that she couldn’t continue reading my books since I was heterosexual. Then just a few days ago I had an email from someone on Facebook asking me to confirm if I was a Christian, because she couldn’t in good conscience continue to read my paranormal erotic romances (which she said she truly enjoyed) if I wasn’t a Christian. I answered her nicely saying that I really appreciated her kind comments about my work, but that I hoped my fans enjoyed my work for my characters, worlds and stories and that I didn’t feel my spiritual beliefs entered into the equation. She answered back saying that if I were truly a Christian that I would’ve proudly stated it and promptly unfriended me. I won’t even get into the sad irony of that particular argument :) which would be an entirely different blog...

Neither of these are the norm within my fan mail, gladly, but I thought they were both rather interesting. Both readers clearly stated that they enjoyed my books, which to me speaks for itself. After all, when I read a book, I read it for enjoyment.

Have we really reached a point where personal affiliations and life color the actual writing to that extent? I’ve read some Stephen King, but I truly hope that within his personal life he doesn’t go around murdering people in macabre circumstances, and I can’t imagine sending him a “fan” mail saying as much. I think I could understand if I was being outspoken about something that they found personally offensive – fair enough for them to choose with their consumer dollars where not to spend their money. After all, that’s the beauty of consumerism. But both of these situations left me a bit puzzled and bemused since that’s not the case. Now let me state, I’m not ashamed in any way of my personal choices or state of being. I just feel that if people enjoy my writing, those things don’t matter or come into play. I’m a good person and am tolerant of others and their views, and I suppose, naively I expect the same in return from others.

Am I being shortsighted? Is this the new face of being within the industry?

I’d love to hear your thoughts...

Tina/Cassie
www.tinagerow.com
www.cassieryan.com

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Holiday Entertaining!

Holiday Entertaining!
By
N. J. Walters

This is the time of year when we entertain the most. And, if we’re not careful, it can also be the most stressful time of year. It doesn’t have to be that way.

Host a Christmas cookie swap with friends, family, or the girls at the office. A lot of women are doing this nowadays. You make a bunch of your favorite kind of cookie, save some for yourself and take the rest to the cookies swap. Be sure to decide beforehand how many cookies every person should bring. It will vary depending on how many people take part. If there are six of you, you would probably want to bring at least three dozen each so everyone gets a half-dozen of each kind. You might want to bring a few extra to “sample” as you all divide the cookies. This way you get a few hours out with friends and a bunch of different cookies to take home for the holidays, which you don’t have to bake yourself. It’s a win/win situation.

How about that formal Christmas party you always throw? You know the one I’m talking about. You stress, you shop, you worry about your table displays. That’s fine if you truly enjoy doing it, but if you find it more work than pleasure, how about throwing a different kind of party this year.

You could have a skating or sledding party. You don’t need kids to act like one yourself. Or, if you choose, you can have people bring their kids. Make huge pots of soup and chili for when you’re all ready to come inside. They’re quick to reheat and let you enjoy time with your friends and family instead of spending all of it in the kitchen. Put out loaves of thick, crusty bread or rolls a few plates of those cookies you got at the cookie swap and you’re all set.

Another great idea is a potluck dinner. Invite friends and family to share their favorites with you and others. It’s a great way to try out new foods. You could have a theme if you wanted or you could simply have folks go with tried and true. Maybe you could even print off recipe cards on your computer and put them by each dish so if someone likes a particular one they can recreate it at home.

If you’d like a more formal party for adults only, have a buffet. Help yourself out by going to the grocery store and buying pre-made finger foods. These days, you can find everything there from the most basic to the more exotic. Put out some fruit and cheese platters and let people mingle and enjoy.

Have a quiet dinner for a few close friends or family. Pick a meal you’re comfortable making. This is NOT the time to try out new recipes. It’s not hard to make the table festive. A few candles, some red napkins and a pinecone or two and your set. It doesn’t have to be elaborate to be nice.

Above all else, have fun. The people you invite over want to spend time with you. And if they’re more concerned with what your house looks like or what you made or didn’t make, then they shouldn’t be on the guest list.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to one and all. Hope you all have fun entertaining!

Looking for a holiday read? Try Jessamyn’s Christmas Gift, a White Hot Holiday Quickie available now from Ellora’s Cave.


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

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

December Newsletter and New Contest!

Good morning and welcome to December!

It's that time of the month again. The December issue of Awakening Desires—the Newsletter of Romance Author N.J. Walters—is now availalbe. If you're not receiving it, then you’re missing out on all the latest news, author interviews, excerpts and tons more!

Be sure to check out the this month’s author interview with Katherine Kingston.

As well, each month, some lucky newsletter subscriber wins a prize. All you have to do to be eligible to win next month is to go to Awakening Desires Newsletter to join. While you’re there, you can check out back issues of the newsletter.


SWEET CHARITY SNEAK PEEK CONTEST!

To celebrate the release of Sweet Charity --the final book in the Project Alpha trilogy--from Ellora's Cave on December 16th, I'm giving away a download copy. Go to my website and click on the "contests" page for details on how you can enter for a chance to win.

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Ah, the drama, the excitement, the kerfluffle!

Kerfuffle has become one of my favorite words lately because it just sums up the nonsense swirling around RWA, Harlequin, Harlequin Ho (their "Horizon" brand) and publishing in general.

Brief summary: Harlequin decided to create a vanity 'arm' (HarHo), RWA & other professional writing organizations slapped 'em for it, Har is now whining and authors are in angst.

I think this fuss has perhaps finally driven home some of the realities of the marketplace -- publishing is a losing business. Publishing can't continue under the old consignment model. It's a lose-lose for all involved. Har came up with a new model for one of its branches, one that will probably make money hand over fist. Gee, I wonder if they'll do whatever they have to do to keep it and satisfy the professional groups?

I agree with RWA that authors should be making money. I disagree about the 'an advance means you're a professional' but I am glad they took a stand on this. It proved they are willing to follow their own rules, something that frankly, I wasn't sure they'd do.

What does this mean for authors? Not sure yet. How abour readers? They probably won't notice -- HarHo books will not be shelved, so unless they're sought out, they can't be found.

I think the most profound impact will be on the hidebound organizations such as MWA, SFWA, and RWA. This has to make them rethink some of their core values because I firmly believe other publishing houses are going to take this route at some point.

Interesting times ahead....

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Want to Win a Print Book?

Photobucket


By The Book is now available in print. To celebrate, I’m giving away two PRINT copies. To find out how to enter for a chance to win, go to my website and click on the “contest” page for details.


BLURB:


Amanda Barrington has moved to Jamesville to start a new life, but someone in this quiet town is trying to kill her.


Former soldier, Jonah Sutter, has returned home to help his sister pick up the pieces of her life. Sparks fly when he and Amanda meet.


He takes on the job of fixing the wiring in her house and ends up protecting her from her stalker. When Amanda is attacked again, all bets are off. And Jonah is no longer playing By The Book.


Drawing takes place on November 30th!

Monday, November 9, 2009

A newlywed phase

I'm in the creating process of a new Settler's Mine story. The hero is someone I've met before. But didn't delve too into his character when last we met. Now, I get to disover everything about him.

The heroine is new to me. I'm still trying to discover what makes her tick.

It's definitely the honeymoon phase. I'm talking gently to them. LOL.

Mechele Armstrong
www.mechelearmstrong.com

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Have Mercy Needs Your Vote!


Have Mercy is up for Book of the Month at Dark Diva Reviews. Readers have one week to vote for their favorite book. Please stop by Dark Diva Reviews and vote! You can vote until November 7th.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Catch the Surge


Bloodlines 6: Surge released late yesterday. Yay! I'm so excited to get to share Roc and Cheyenne with everyone. Roc is super sexy.


This story does standalone. I consider those who have read the previous books to get "extras" because characters from the previous books do appear in Surge.



Blurb: Sexy dreams haunt the vampire Cheyenne as she struggles with her schizophrenia. Her call awakens the man from her dreaming. Only he’s not a man. He's Marroc. The first vampire ever made who took to ground a thousand years ago where he's simmered, feeding on souls and dreaming of Cheyenne, dreaming of taking her for his own.


When she releases him with her call, Roc goes to find Cheyenne, sure she is “the one” to help him defeat his enemy. She recognizes him from her dreams, and after a wild bout of sex, he discovers that her orgasms give him a surge of power. Orgasms with Roc also have a benefit for Cheyenne: they make her sane.


When one of her friends is taken by Roc's enemy, both Roc and Cheyenne will stop at nothing to get her back. The surge of sex gives them both what they've longed for. But can they have enough sex to survive the fight, and keep them together in the end?


To read an excerpt.


Mechele Armstrong aka Lany of Melany Logen
Where Sensuality and Wonder collide
The future's never been so sexy
http://www.melanylogen.com

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Beyond busy ...

Every time I'm scheduled to post here, I'm either out of town or going out of town. Yep, I'm leaving town in a few minutes to go to see my Mom, who's in the hospital. It's pneumonia and she's 90, so this is a non-trivial illness.

I've been getting my affairs in order (so to speak) so I can stay with her as long as needed. Got ample clothing packed, bags of Stuff to work on, 2 computers, chargers ... it looks like a trek across the country not a 4-hour jaunt to a civilized place (yes, Iowa is civilized, no matter what those Left Coasters think!)

Along with all of this are deadlines at the Paycheck Job. I have an exceptional boss, and she's told me just 'go, do whatever you need to do, check in when you.' Thank you, Lord, for good bosses. That being said, I still put in a few extra hours to wrap up some things so others on my project won't be behind the 8-ball because I'm gone.

I've had 5 books release this year, and I'm trying to be a good soldier and do promo for those. Tricky when you're juggling so much else, but I dip in now and then and promo. Not enough, but it'll have to do.

And I had edits for a book which were, thankfully, amazingly light. Done in an hour and out the door. I have a request from an agent for more info about me, my marketing strategy, my books, my sell-through -- all good and all stuff I can put together while sitting in the hospital room with the drone of machines beeping nearby.

As I did all these chores this week, I thought about the old Need vs. Want vs. Should triangle we often find ourselves trapped in. As I did things, I thought, "I should do this, then that'll be finished and I can get on the road" or "I need to get that done so..." or "I want to check that, if I do...."

I finally realized that when Need, Want, and Should all come together it's the right thing to do.

I need to be with Mom. I want to be with her. And I should be with her.

So I'm on the road again...

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

New Books!

Photobucket
Alexandra’s Legacy is now available in e-book from Samhain Publishing.


The truth will set her free…or get her killed.

Alexandra Riley’s day starts out like any other in her normal, predictable world. Then a tall, dark stranger bursts into her father’s garage and shatters the illusion. In one shocking moment, she discovers why she’s been feeling hot, restless—she’s the half-breed daughter of a legendary werewolf and is a much-sought-after prize.

Joshua Striker, enforcer in charge of protecting the alphas of the Wolf Creek pack, has come to take Alex home. Nothing more, nothing less. From the first moment he sees her, she becomes the one thing he can’t afford—a distraction from his duty. A weakness he doesn’t want—but can’t resist needing.

If only keeping her safe was as simple as fending off males on the hunt for a mate. Through city streets to the mountains of North Carolina, Alex and Joshua have to evade those who don’t want their pure bloodlines tainted with human DNA, as well as bounty hunters who think the only good werewolf is a dead one.

What Joshua and Alex can’t outrun is the passion that flares between them—or the choice Alex must eventually face. Whether to claim her inner wolf, or forfeit her chance to claim Joshua as her own.


AND

Out today in PRINT:

Trick or Treat is now available from Amazon.com and Simon and Schuster.

X
This Halloween anthology contains four stories: Unmasking Kelly by me, NJ Walters, Sinderella by Jan Springer, Stolen Goddess by Tawny Taylor and Wolf in Cheap Clothing by Charlene Teglia. Be sure to check it out.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Have Mercy is Available today!



HAVE MERCY is available today from Ellora's Cave Publishing. This is book 2 in the futuristic/erotic Project Alpha trilogy.

BLURB:

Second in the Project Alpha series.

Earth 2133

Logan is an Alpha—a genetically enhanced assassin—who has escaped from the lab that created him. He is now outside the Gate, a high-tech shield that protects the enclosed city from the contaminated and lawless land outside. Shot while evading security forces sent to eliminate him, Logan’s only goal is survival.

Mercy Dockins is a healer. Her world is shaken to its foundations when a stranger is brought to her near death. As she heals him, her body and soul respond to him, overwhelming her with sexual desire. With little more than a look and a touch, passion flares out of control, consuming them both.

But this stranger is dangerous to not only her well-being, but also to the safety of everyone she loves. And he has brought the security forces right to her door.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Kindle Download, Apps and Guest Blog...oh, my!

It's been a very busy week for me and it's only Wednesday! Lots of exciting things going on.


From September 28th until October 12 my Samhain book, Discovering Dani , is available as a free kindle giveaway on Amazon.com. This is the first book in the Jamesville series. If you haven't had a chance to read it, you can do so now...for FREE!



Blurb:

Book 1 of Jamesville.

Dani O'Rourke has had the responsibility of raising her two brothers, Patrick and Shamus, since the death of their parents. As sole owner and operator of O'Rourke Cleaning Services, she is no stranger too hard work, but she is a beginner when it comes to men.

Burke is a very rich and successful businessman whose brush with death has made him question his priorities. He-s traveled to Jamesville for peace and quiet while he plans the rest of his life.

Their lives collide when Burke accuses her of breaking into his cabin to steal from him. Their attraction to each other is immediate, and after a series of misunderstandings he finds himself caught up in the lives of Dani and her brothers.

But can this gentle, giving woman get a man as hard and cynical as Burke to believe in the power of love? Or will Burke leave town without ever discovering the wonders of life with Dani?

If that wasn't exciting enough...Discovering Dani is an app!

You can read it on your cell phone. How cool is that!

I'm also guest blogging over at the Samhain Blog today. If you get a chance, drop by and check it out!

If you'd like a chance to win a free e-book, check out my latest contest, October Extravaganza, on my Website!

Friday, September 25, 2009

Books to Movies: Does it matter?

Hi all,

I've been talking to some friends of mine about what I would like to see if my book, Carinian's Seeker Vampire Council of Ethics Book 1, was made into a movie. The topic of race came up.

The Vampire Council of Ethics series is a multicultural series. And when I say multicultural, I mean REALLY. In fact, the whole series is a nice mix of folks from various backgrounds, races and just about everything. The main couple is of different races. The secondary cast is multi-racial, and even the bad guys get into the mix a bit. In the end, there's Black, White, East Indian, Japanese, Native American, African, etc.

So here is the question that sent me to the blogs to get your advice:

If the books were made into a TV series or movie (like True Blood) would it matter to you if the main couple in Carinian's Seeker (white male, black female) was switched around to black male, white female?

The thought from the film maker chicklet was that it is more socially acceptable to see a white female with a black male than the other way around and that swapping the races might attract a larger audience.

But that made me think of the recent Star Trek movie. I mean Spock and Uhura had a seriously hot thing going on. Now how many of us saw that coming? Not me! But did I think it was cool and that the characters made it work? Sure did!

Personally, I like movies that stick as close to the book as possible, but the other argument is that if the acting is done well, will people really care if the races were switched?

What do you think?

TJ

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Sadness

I found out last night that Patrick Swayze passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer. I remember when he came out about his diagnosis, thinking it wasn't good. He had one of the evil cancers that's not had a good survival rate.

I was a Swayze fan. After Dirty Dancing and Ghost, he had quite a few fans. "Nobody puts Baby in a corner." An immortal line that will live on.

It's been a very terrible year for celebrities. Farrah Fawcett. Michael Jackson. Billy Mays. Walter Cronkite. Bea Arthur. Many more :>(

I'm glad no one stuck Swayze in a corner and his movies will live on. Not to mention his spirit. It would have been very easy for him to give up. Instead, he took a role on a TV show and went to work each day. He lobbied for cancer research. He turned the last bit of his life into something positive. All of us can only hope to do the same.

Godspeed, Patrick Swayze. You will be missed.

Mechele Armstrong
www.mechelearmstrong.com

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

October Extravaganza Contest!



I know it's only September, but I'm already getting ready for October. I have TWO new releases due out in October. Have Mercy, book 2 in the Project Alpha series, is due out from Ellora’s Cave Publishing on October 7th. Alexandra's Legacy, the first book in my new werewolf series, is due out from Samhain Publishing on October 13th.









To celebrate, I'm giving away a download copy of both books. Go to my website and click on the "contests" page for details on how to enter.

Saturday, August 15, 2009

a learning plateau

I'm at a conference this weekend and it's proving to be a good learning experience, not because of what I'm learning from the presenters but because of what I'm learning about me and conferences.

I need to re-think why I'm coming to them and what I want from them. I'm a published author and my needs are different than a lot of the people here. I haven't really thought seriously about that in a few months, but it came home to me last night when I looked at the schedule and realized I wasn't sure which sessions might be of use... if any? I'm not sure.

It is fun to be in a different place & be among people who care about writing, but many folks herehaven't written a ms yet so there's a real variety of questions in the workshops. And somehow I got scheduled into a pitch session which I didn't plan on -- with an agent. I have nothing prepared so I'll just chat with her and see how it goes. Not a big deal...
All in all, an unusual weekend. I have to admit, it's making me rethink what cons I'll attend in the future. I need to take a serious look at my career plans and decide where they fit. All part of my learning process for publishing.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

5 Book Review for Past Promises

My latest Samhain Publishing release, Past Promises, just received a 5 Book Review from Long and Short Reviews.


Here's a snippet of what reviewer, Holly, had to say:

"N. J. Walters writes her Jamesville stories with heart and passion. Reading this book, you feel the pain Linda feels when her family will not accept her as she is. You feel the desire and passion she feels when she finds that Levi wants her, and the indecision of whether to get involved with a man who may move on at any time... This is the first of the Jamesville books I have read, but I am going to get the rest soon, because I want to visit this place and meet the people there."

Thank you Holly and Long and Short Reviews!

I dream of a Another Night, Another Dream


It's a reality. It's released! Yippeeee.
The Blurb:
Cassie thought she'd convinced her friends not to throw her some lame birthday party, but when her 25th rolls around, boy was she wrong. Not only is there a birthday party, but there's a stripper, and a bitchy little tramp who insults Cassie's plus-sized curves at her own party. Pissed off beyond belief, Cassie storms out, only to get trapped in a stairwell.
The stripper, Aden, and the bodyguard, Leo, follow her out to check on her, but just their luck, they get trapped in with her. Aden can't believe his luck at being stuck with the gorgeous birthday girl and the Hotty McHotass he's been looking at all night. Hotty McHotass takes the whole thing pretty stoically, just like he does everything else—but you can't judge a book by its cover.
To distract Cassie from a claustrophic panic attack, the boys start up a game of Truth or Dare. Cassie reveals her secret fantasy to have a threesome, and one by one, hearts, souls, and bodies are laid bare. It's a fantasy come true, and so much more, but when the game's over, will it turn out to be just another night, another dream?
Mechele Armstrong aka Lany of Melany Logen
Where Sensuality and Wonder collide
The future's never been so sexy
http://www.melanylogen.com

Monday, August 10, 2009

Dream Dream Dream Dreaammm

This summer, the family and I went to Hershey, PA. It was sort of a dream of mine to go back. I went when I was a kid with my family.

Hopefully, next summer I maybe going to Savannah with the kids (and the youngest's Brownie Troop). It's another dream to go back there. Love Savannah, with all the Spanish Moss and Tybee Island.

Now, if I can just get back to Niagara Falls, a few of my dream destinations will be achieved. I'd still love to go to the Bahamas and Scotland.

Where do you dream of going?

Mechele Armstrong aka Lany of Melany Logen
Where Sensuality and Wonder collide
http://www.mechelearmstrong.com
http://www.collector-series.com
The future's never been so sexy
http://www.melanylogen.com

Sunday, August 9, 2009

Celebrating Milestones

Yesterday I emailed off my finished manuscript of Sleeping With Shadows to my agent.

I’ve spent the past four months of my life slaving over that book--living it, dreaming it, constantly thinking about it, scribbling ideas on receipts, napkins or even my hand when I wasn’t home near my computer. And at ten am yesterday I finished my final read through, had tears in my eyes when I read the Happily Ever After ending (yeah, I’m squishy about the HEA’s, what can I say??) and gave a big happy sigh as I closed the file, and emailed it off to Paige, so she can shop it around.

Then as I closed my laptop I realized I had no writing goal for the day, my brain hadn’t yet become too ensnared in the upcoming next book, and I wanted to celebrate and enjoy my accomplishment! There is nothing like that feeling of exhilaration that goes through you when you reach a milestone—no matter what type. A few weeks ago when I sold the two book deal to Berkley I was also doing the big happy dance. Granted, that one was a little more intense happy dance, but the aftermath of feelings are pretty much the same.

Although I’ll admit, I choose carefully who I ask to help me celebrate my milestones, because there are those who tend to suck the joy out of it for me or downplay it until the celebration seems selfish of me to have, or just an everyday thing not worthy of celebration. Obviously it’s much more fun to spend it with the people who are truly happy for and with me and want to celebrate as much as I do! I think it’s important to have that celebration and take time out to appreciate the accomplishment and all the blood, sweat, tears and effort spent—no matter how big or small the milestone. Wouldn’t it be a terrific world if we celebrated even the small ones? Hmmm...I think I may have to start having mini celebrations for finishing chapters now! Mwaahaaahaaa!

Anyway, I was able to do a mini celebration yesterday and today I’m doing the “not a damn thing” method of relaxing :) Because tomorrow I get to start on Jane Doe Succubus, which is the first book of the two book deal I sold to Berkley. That story has been noodling in the back of my head for a while—ever since I wrote the proposal (which is only a synopsis and one chapter), but it took a back seat while I was ensnared in Sleeping With Shadows. Now it can come out to play and become my new “obsession” for the next few months :) Ahh, the life of a writer.

A milestone that is no less important, but got lost during my deadline frenzy is the release of Trio of Seduction, the third book in my Seduction Series written as Cassie Ryan. Here’s an excerpt if you’d like to take a look – Excerpt. Or if you’d just like to hop on over and buy it, here’s that link too – Buy. :)

So here’s my questions to all of you. How do you celebrate your milestones, writing or otherwise? Is there anyone in your life that tends to suck the joy out of your accomplishments? If so, how do you handle that? Is it important for you to take time off in between projects? And here’s the fun one – what WAS your accomplishment, so we can celebrate with you! :)

Raising cyber Butterscotch Martinis to all, and might even find some real ones sometime today! :)

Tina/Cassie

Saturday, July 18, 2009

Our dreams tell us what to do ...

I decided to run for a national office (RWA, not 'real' politics), and last night I dreamed about being at a board meeting and talking to people there. I didn't really see the faces in my dream, but I remember thinking, "gee, if these are the Real Published People, then I'm okay, because I can understand what they're saying and I feel good being here' or feelings to that effect.

There was a bit of stress in the dream: I was supposed to fill out some forms or something, and I did but wasn't sure I did them right (I think this was crossover from entering an online contest earlier and waiting to see if my entry was received).

Anyway, I woke this morning and decided that maybe my dream was saying "go for it". I can still back out before 'officially' filing my papers. Or maybe it's saying I need to sleep on it some more. I'll let it percolate in the back of my brain for a few days and see if other thoughts come to me in dreamland. I've got a bunch of back-to-back travel planned from now until the end of August, so I won't have much time to contemplate, agonize, or reconsider. I'll decide, move ahead, and not look back.

Hmm. Not a bad plan ....

Monday, July 13, 2009

To every thing there is a season

And my brain right now wants to be on summer vacation.

LOL I just finished three stories back to back. Fun stories that I enjoyed writing. But I'm feeling a little...needing of a break. A refilling of the well as it were. I plan to write a few fun things. Read. Bascially refill myself.

I know it won't last long. Characters are already talking. I have a sequel to write to one of the three stories. Not to mention other tales are lurking around my head. I have a story I'd really like to patch up and submit.

But for now, I'm going to enjoy this season.

Mechele Armstrong aka Lany of Melany Logen
http://www.mechelearmstrong.com
http://www.melanylogen.com

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Amethyst Dreams Out Today!


Today is a very special day. My 30th Ellora's Cave book, Amethyst Dreams, is being released today!
*
This menage a trois/time-travel is a sequel to Amethyst Moon, but can be read as a stand alone book.
*
BLURB:

Dr. Augustine Mitchell has made her career researching a lost civilization. She owes her success to her colleague and friend, Olivia Fifield, who mysteriously disappeared four years earlier, leaving her with a set of notes, a vague letter and a silver and amethyst necklace.

Decisions and dreams plague her waking and sleeping hours. At a crossroads in her life, Augustine sets off on an archeological dig. The discovery of a secret room sets off a chain of events that land her in the world of T’ar Tal and in the arms of two sexy men—Rorik and Kirce.

Augustine is shocked when the men from her dreams are suddenly real. There is no denying the sexual chemistry that sparks between her and her two lovers, but there are seemingly insurmountable problems as well. Their destinies are entwined, but only Augustine can decide their fate.
*
Buy today from Ellora’s Cave

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

July Newsletter Now Available!

If you’re not already receiving Awakening Desires—the Newsletter of Romance Author N.J. Walters—then you’re missing out on all the latest news, author interviews, excerpts and tons more! You’re also missing out on a chance to win every month!

The July 2009 issue is now available!


Check out the this month’s author interview with Kate Hill.


As well, each month, some lucky newsletter subscriber wins a prize. All you have to do to be eligible to win next month is to go to Awakening Desires Newsletter to join and read back issues.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Coming July 3

Phantom Affair
by Katherine Kingston
Release date: July 3, 2009
ISBN: 9781419923067

Note: Part of the proceeds from this book is being donated to the family of Lara Anne Punches, whose life ended tragically and too early.

Blurb: Robert is the best lover Kelly has ever had—handsome, thoughtful, engaging and a thrilling sexual dominant. Too bad he’s a ghost who can’t actually touch her. When Robert suggests that a risky sexual adventure that could offer him a second chance at corporeal life, Kelly agrees to it. He’s open about the dangers of the process, but success carries its own peril. Reality cannot possibly live up to fantasy, can it?

Excerpt:Chapter One

One of the few drawbacks to having a ghost for a lover was the lack of a martini waiting for her when she got home after a rough trip into the city. Oh, and the back rubs lacked a certain heft. Still, Robert managed to make her feel amazingly wonderful for someone whose spirit was willing but the flesh nonexistent.

Kelly Scranton could fix the martini herself. And unlike most of the men she’d dated, Robert was always willing to listen to her gripes, and he generally commiserated. In fact he seemed to crave her tales of woe from the trenches of the architectural world, or any other world. Being limited to the house made him hungry for any and all information from outside, which was why she generally left either the television or a radio going even when she wasn’t there.

Her nineteenth-century mansion on the Virginia side of the Chesapeake Bay coast was almost two hour’s drive from D.C., so Kelly generally spent a couple of days in town at a time, meeting with clients and other business contacts before returning home where she could do much of the drawing in peace and conduct the rest of her business via phone.

That particular Thursday she’d been gone for three days, working on a large collaborative project. By the time she got back at eight in the evening, she was beat. She’d had dinner before she left the city but she headed for the kitchen right after dumping her briefcase and stepping out of her pumps. That martini was calling her name.

Robert was too, materializing beside her while she got out the bottles and filled the shaker with ice. It no longer startled her. His form was never fully solid, which made it hard to get a perfect idea what he looked like. She could tell he had a lean, handsome face with strong jaw and cheekbones and sensual lips, but it was especially hard to see his eye and hair color. Both seemed to be light. Otherwise, he’d been a tall man in life, but thin. He looked to be in his mid-twenties, which made sense since he thought he’d been about twenty-five when he died. He didn’t like to talk about it, but he had one time admitted that he’d been hanged in 1706. He wouldn’t discuss the reason. Nothing she’d learned of him in the three years since she’d bought the house—and his company along with it—suggested he was a bad or violent man, so his fate mystified her.
He must have some way to change his clothes, or maybe just his appearance, since his dress didn’t reflect a man who’d lived in the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries. He usually appeared to be wearing a polo shirt and slacks.
“Rough trip?” he asked, staring at her as she measured out the vermouth. “Took longer than usual and you look beat.”

“Busy. Lots of negotiations, a zillion details to hammer out. And I had to wear heels for three solid days.”

“Poor baby.” An intriguing hint of British accent underlay the slang he’d picked up from the TV. “Go put your feet up and I’ll rub them while you tell me about it.”

That was an offer she never refused.

Kelly finished putting together the double martini and took it to the living room. She settled into the reclining end of the leather sofa with a sigh of relief, letting the quiet, homey atmosphere she’d created sink into her tired bones. A puff of warm air surrounded each of her feet after she raised the footrest. The air began to move around, pressing against her flesh.

She had no idea how he did that. Another of the drawbacks of a ghostly lover was his inability to touch her, but Robert had figured out how to use puffs of compressed air to substitute for it. He admitted it had taken him years of practice to learn and master the technique. Kelly refused to ask how many women had gotten similar attentions from him. He admitted there’d been a couple, though he claimed he first developed the method to use for turning the pages of books.

“Tell me what’s happened the last few days,” Robert said, his half-visible form kneeling beside the chair. It appeared his hands were around her feet, though he couldn’t truly touch her. Still, the air shifted around her toes, stroking them gently but firmly.

“Damn, that feels good.” Kelly settled deeper into the chair. The air pressed and rubbed in a way that air shouldn’t be able to do, but she wasn’t arguing. “This project is turning out to be a bear,” she told him. He kept “rubbing” her feet while she poured out all that had happened in the past couple of days, venting all the aggravations and irritations. Getting it out always made her feel lighter.

Because she had a lot to get off her chest, it took a while to notice something different. “You’re very quiet,” she said to Robert. Normally, he responded enthusiastically to her tales, asking thoughtful questions, demanding details and reassuring her where he felt it was needed. “Is something wrong?”

“No, not wrong. I have something to discuss with you but not right now. A little later.”

She stared at him for a moment but could read little in the shadowy face. He never had worn his emotions openly. “All right.”

“We have other things to do first.”

The stroking moved up from her feet, along her calves and onto her thighs, pushing below her skirt. It didn’t feel exactly like a human touch but it was close enough for each brush of air on sensitive skin to send those prickly tingles running along her nerves and rousing desire for more. She imagined Robert’s fingers doing that march along her skin and got even hotter.

“Take off your blouse and the bra for me,” he said. He turned one part of his limitation into a virtue, by ordering her to do the things he couldn’t. She’d read about it, but until now she’d never understood on a personal level how sexy it would be to take off her clothes at the command of a dominant man. Even if said dominant wasn’t entirely solid.

As soon as she’d shed the shirt and bra and settled back down, another set of air puffs began circling her breasts. Add to the ghost lover’s pro list that he wasn’t apparently limited to two hands’ worth of air. There were still swirly bits running up and down her legs as well.

Sunday, June 21, 2009

A fun event NOT sponsored by RWA

I had a book signing on Saturday in a flower shop.

I grew up in a small town with no bookstore so the flower shop stocks my books. Because I'm with a small press (I don't call them an e-pub) I'm able to work with my publisher to get the books in unusual locations like gift shops, etc.

I sold a few dozen books, had press interviews with local papers and had a great time.

If I followed RWA guidelines I'd be poorer financially and in terms of experience. Thank heavens I started ignoring them years ago!

Monday, June 8, 2009

Inspiring

I can remember this episode of Roseanne. It made me want to write.



It's a poem I remember to this day. What inspires you?


Mechele Armstrong aka Lany of Melany Logen
Where Sensuality and Wonder collide
http://www.mechelearmstrong.com
http://www.collector-series.com
The future's never been so sexy
http://www.melanylogen.com

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Coming Friday: Kyle's Bargain

Kyle's Bargain
Ellora's Cave
Available May 22, 2009


Meg Travis is desperate to save a shopping center.
Kyle Harrison’s future depends on razing and rebuilding it.
Meg tries to talk him out of it.
Kyle’s not impressed.
Meg tries blackmail and offers to sleep with him to get his attention.
Kyle offers a bargain—two hours of his time for a night of hers, in his bed.
She agrees—as long he won’t press charges.
He agrees—as long as she submits to his punishment instead.
She accepts.
He listens.
She takes his punishment and ignites in bed.
Sparks fly. Heat blazes. Irritation turns to respect.
They want more of each other.
Meg has a disabled sister who depends on her.
Kyle has mortgaged his future for the shopping center.
Her ex-fiancee couldn’t handle her commitment to her sister.
His late wife manipulated him.
She has submissive leanings.
Kyle likes dominating women and does threesomes.
Meg is shocked but intrigued.
Love blossoms.
They work on a solution to the shopping center problem.
They struggle for compromises on the other issues.
Their baggage still threatens any long-term relationship.

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Got Time For A Quickie?

Tempting Tori by N. J. Walters is now available!



Tempting Tori

Standing in the barn, looking out over his ranch, J.T. Courage knows there is nowhere else on earth he’d rather be. He has his brothers, a successful horse business and a new home on the land that’s belonged to his family for generations. The only thing missing is someone to share it all with. And he has just the woman in mind.

Victoria Abrams is leaving the man she loves. She can no longer pretend he will one day see her as more than a friend or housekeeper. But J.T. is not about to let the sexy woman who has tempted him for months with her lush body and beautiful face slip away without a fight.


Purchase Tempting Tori from Ellora’s Cave at http://www.jasminejade.com/pm-7046-172-tempting-tori.aspx
Or
http://www.ellorascave.com/productpage.asp?ISBN=9781419919381


Emotional~Sensual~Satisfying Reads!
http://www.njwalters.com

Monday, May 11, 2009

Joie de vivre

I went to an amusement park yesterday with the kidlets and the hubby.

My youngest was tall enough to ride another coaster. She's hoping to be tall enough by the end of summer to ride the last two coasters there. We rode two of the ones she can ride multiple times and one once.

The oldest rode her first coaster and was so proud of herself.

It reminds me how much joy children find in just living. As an adult, I sometimes get so wrapped up in the job, in the routine, etc that I forget how much joy there can be in living. I forget to stomp in puddles. To stop and smell a pretty flower. To pat the cat. To rub the dog's belly. Catch snowflakes on your tongue.

I hate having to be reminded (and not just my kids remind me) but I love it when I am. It helps to take pleasure in the simple things.

Mechele Armstrong aka Lany of Melany Logen
Where Sensuality and Wonder collide
http://www.mechelearmstrong.com
http://www.collector-series.com
The future's never been so sexy
http://www.melanylogen.com

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Endless Chase by N.J. Walters Available Today!


ENDLESS CHASE is available today from Ellora's Cave Publishing!

http://www.jasminejade.com/p-7233-endless-chase.aspx or
http://www.ellorascave.com/productpage.asp?ISBN=9781419919954


Endless Chase
NJ Walters

Book 5 of Dalakis Passion

Katya Markova has spent the last year of her life searching for the person responsible for the brutal murder of her parents. Her quest has taken her around the world and into the dark world of blood cults and murderers, finally bringing her to Transylvania and the Dalakis family.

Chase Deveraux is at a crossroads in his life. His sister and most of his extended family are vampires, but he is not. He’s come to Dalakis Castle to spend time with his family and make some important decisions about his uncertain future.

Vengeance is at hand for Katya, and nothing will make her stray from her chosen path—nothing, that is, but Chase. From their first chance meeting, the emotional and sexual connection between them is explosive. But Katya is enmeshed in a world of lies and deceptions, which now includes Chase and his family. Love, vengeance and honor are tested, and sides must be taken as the entire Dalakis family is now in jeopardy.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Past Promises by N. J. Walters



PAST PROMISES is now available from Samhain Publishing! You can check out this book, or any other of my books, at my author's page at Samhain Publishing.

This is part of the Jamesville series, but can be read as a stand alone book.

BLURB: PAST PROMISES

Sometimes the only way to leave the past behind is to ignore the voice of reason—and leap.

Jamesville, Book 7

For Linda Fletcher, the sign in front of her new business says it all. Past Promises Antiques is her declaration of independence from her powerful and manipulative family—and a vow to herself that her future will be different.

She never considered herself the no-strings-affair type, but the chemistry between her and her newly hired handyman is too intense to ignore. Moving to Jamesville was a bold step, so what’s the harm in taking one more—into his arms?

Levi Mann’s shadowed past keeps his bags packed light and his feet on the move. But one look at Linda, and he finds himself willing to hang around—just long enough to figure out what it is that triggers their explosive passion.

Monday, April 13, 2009

Glitch or not, it's troubling

Tina/Cassie posted below about the whole Amazon debacle. It's a mess.

It has definitely ignited the online world.

Every September/October, I try to do a lot of postings on Banned Books Week. It's a cause I believe in strongly.

One of the things that has been pointed out on numerous blogs is the incongruity of the appliance of the adult policy (which may or may not be Amazon's policy, they now say, "glitch" in response to why the books have been desearch engined and deranked).

Violent books such as the Dexter series and others weren't affected. Now, I enjoy the Dexter series both in book and on TV. But there's a lot of murder and mayhem happening in these books. Is sex really that much more objectionable than violence? The books that were affected, are they really more offensive than a serial killer torturing his victims?

Not to me.

And therein lies the problem of censorship. Everyone has things they find offensive. Where do we draw the line? My line is here. Your line is over there. Her line is way over there. Whose line do we take?

I sincerely hope that this Amazon thing is a glitch and they get it fixed posthaste. But I also hope that people will continue to talk about censorhip and book banning and realize that it does still happen. And it's no more objectionable when done by Amazon than it is when done at a public library or a school library.

Mechele Armstrong aka Lany of Melany Logen
http://www.mechelearmstrong.com
http://www.melanylogen.com

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Amazon Censorship? Or purely bad business decision?

If you follow any writing community blogs including twitter, facebook or anywhere else you run into authors, you've probably heard about the new Amazon kerfuffle.

If you haven't, sit back and let me fill you in.

A few days ago book rankings started disappearing from books here and there on Amazon. A few would return, and then more would disappear. Searches by author name and/or book title wouldn't always return results, and things were generally very wonky. A few people began questioning Amazon and after some very vague answers from some poor customer service reps who had no idea what was happening, finally someone who had an Amazon.com advantage account received a reply:

(The following is reposted from Mark Probst's Live Journal Blog - http://markprobst.livejournal.com/15293.html)

In consideration of our entire customer base, we exclude "adult" material from appearing in some searches and best seller lists. Since these lists are generated using sales ranks, adult materials must also be excluded from that feature.

Hence, if you have further questions, kindly write back to us.

Best regards,

Ashlyn D

Member Services

Amazon.com Advantage


So, basically Amazon has decided to protect all of us from ourselves? We can no longer be trusted to decide what we search on and what we look at? Huh? Not to mention that if I search for a particular author - they may not show up in my search results if Amazon deems them "adult" and therefore inappropriate for me to see even though I'm a consenting adult well over the age of consent?? Again, I say, Huh??

Amazingly, the list of what books are affected certainly aren't consistent across the board, in fact, someone pointed out that Penthouse and Playboy still had a rank when they looked earlier today. And I've read some Jackie Collins books that equal some of the erotic romances that have been stripped of rank, but Jackie still retains hers. Selective rank and search removal? Or just poor implementation of a poorly thought out policy?

Not to mention that from a business perspective, if readers can't search and find the books they are looking for, they will go elsewhere to buy. Not that Amazon has ever done huge sales numbers for individual authors (contrary to popular belief, most authors don't make most of their sales through Amazon), but you would think as a reseller that they would want people to be able to easily find their products and purchase them.

AND, if all of these "offensive" adult books are appearing on the best sellers lists so they can offend all of us (supposedly) then who is buying them to get them to appear there?? Hmmm, maybe the buying customers who will now take their business elsewhere? (Guess Amazon didn't think of that...oops!)

I know several authors, myself included are going to remove all links from our websites that go to Amazon.com until they reverse this really useless policy. If they don't want to help customers find our books, then we'll be glad to "help" them with the effectiveness of their own policy.

If any of you would like to let Amazon.com know how you feel about their new policy, this is their email addy: connect-help@amazon.com
Other ways to get in touch with them: http://clicheideas.com/amazon.htm

Or write to their CEO:
Jeffrey Bezos. The address is 1200 12th Avenue South, Seattle, Washington 98144-2734, United States Phone: 206-266-1000 Fax: 206-622-2405

Well, I'm off to remove some links and then sit down to write a very detailed letter of my own to Amazon.

It will be interesting to see how this one plays out...

Tina/Cassie

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

New Covers!



I've gotten two fantastic new covers in the past week:

The first is for KYLE'S BARGAIN, a forthcoming release from Ellora's Cave.

Blurb: In a desperate attempt to save the small strip shopping center that houses her own bookstore and a few other small retailers, Meg Travis tries to blackmail developer Kyle Harrison into going with her to talk to the people his project is about to displace. He offers her a bargain. He’ll give her two hours of his time if she’ll agree to spend a night with him in his bed, and he won’t press charges if she’ll accept the punishment he proposes. He refuses to tell her what that penalty would be. Both honor their promises, but neither is prepared for the attraction that blazes between them in the process, turning duty into joy and punishment into pleasure.

Read the first chapter here: http://www.katherinekingston.com/Kyle.html.




The second is for WALPURGIS NIGHT, which was originally released as part of the EQUINOX 1 anthology and will be re-released by Ellora's Cave as a stand-alone novella.



Blurb: In 10th-century England, Norse invaders have begun to settle down and intermingle with the Anglo-Saxon residents. On Walpurgis Night it's expected that all adults will do their part to ensure the fertility of the land by indulging in sexual activity. Healer Fianna has been warned she must choose a partner for the night, but she doesn't like any of the candidates available in her town. When forced to make a decision, she selects Henrik, a visiting Norseman who’s come to watch the festivities.


They have a sizzling night together, but then he departs. Later, when Henrik's brother is wounded, he forces her to come and treat him. Fianna's not sure she can save the gravely injured man, but agrees to try. The situation forces her into close proximity with Henrik, and neither can resist the sexual attraction and growing love between them. But Henrik has long planned to leave the area as soon as his brother is healed and able to take over Henrik's responsibilities.

New Release Wednesday



My latest romantic suspense book is out with Resplendence. As with most of mine, it features an older hero (50s) and heroine (50) and a great cover. Okay, not all of mine feature great covers, but this one is. It's got all of the elements: the stalker, the frozen lake, the pine trees ....

Yea! It's here!

Here's a blurb to whet the appetite:

Have you ever made a mistake in love? Did that mistake almost kill you?

M.C. ('Mac') Shefflington thought she finally escaped Tom Donaldson and her terrible past. She started to relax at her new home in Minnesota when the hang-up calls and tailgating started again, the same things that Tom used to do. Mac knows he's come back into her life.

Retired Sheriff Harry Mortonson is willing to help her because that might alleviate the guilt he feels about his own past and a woman he didn’t help, years ago. But when he meets Mac, he gets far more than he bargained for, including falling in love with her and protecting her from the crazy man who's stalking her.

In the end, it's up to Mac to lure Tom into a trap on one of Minnesota's frozen lakes where she, Harry, and Tom have one final confrontation. If she can succeed, she’ll save Harry and they’ll have a chance for a new life together. But if she fails, Tom wins and Mac will have to live her past—again.

--------------------

I think you'll like Harry (a retired sheriff with a dog named Law and a cat named Order) and Mac (the woman who won't buy snow boots because she's afraid it'll jinx her hiding out in Minnesota). And like all my books, one of the animals helps save the day, this time a gerbil.

Yep. A gerbil. You have to read the book to find out how!

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

April Newsletter Now Available!

If you’re not already receiving Awakening Desires—the Newsletter of Romance Author N.J. Walters—then you’re missing out on all the latest news, author interviews, excerpts and tons more! You’re also missing out on a chance to win every month!

The April 2009 issue is now available!

Check out the this month’s author interview with the talented J. C. Wilder.

As well, each month, some lucky newsletter subscriber wins a prize. All you have to do to be eligible to win next month is to go to Awakening Desires Newsletter to join and read back issues.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Ellora's Cavemen Anthology Sale!



Ellora’s Cavemen: Jewels of the Nile IV


BIG SALE!

The ebooks (all 20 – Tales From the Temple, Legendary Tails, Dreams of the Oasis, Seasons of Seduction, and Jewels of the Nile) are on sale at Ellora's Cave for $6.99 each (regular price $9.99).

That's 20 books, each with 6 quickies, for a total of 120 Quickies at $1.165 per story (in groups of six). That's a great deal! If you haven't checked out the Ellora's Cavemen Anthologies, now is the time to do so.



Ellora’s Cavemen: Seasons of Seduction III











Ellora’s Cavemen: Legendary Tails IV







Ellora’s Cavemen: Dreams of the Oasis IV

Saturday, March 21, 2009

Spring cleaning (no, not that kind)



I've been updating a new Itouch calendar app, transferring info from my Palm to it. What a pain -- no easy way to do it, so I'm doing it manually. This is a Good Thing, though (as Martha Stewart would say), because I'm weeding out as I do so.


But boy, does it bring back some memories! A concert here and there, a death, a funeral, a wedding ... all are noted in my auxiliary brain, my PDA. I've used a PDA for almost 10 years now, since before they were really small, and I have a ton of info on it. I've waded through old appointments and am now on "Milestones".


One thing this has done is make me appreciate a publisher who releases ebooks and print books on the same day. The amount of 'double promo' I had to do for books is amazing -- every month I'd have a book 'release' because I have 3 publishers. No wonder it felt like all I do was promo-promo-promo! My schedule has gotten so much less hectic since then.


So I highly recommend spring cleaning -- it can give you a new perspective on things you're taking for granted. Of course, CLOSET spring cleaning .... now that can give you an unpleasant perspective as you realize some of those summer clothes don't fit.


Off to the gym!




Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Tempting Tori by N.J. Walters is Now Available

Tempting Tori by N.J. Walters is now available from Ellora's Cave Publishing!



BLURB:

Standing in the barn, looking out over his ranch, J.T. Courage knows there is nowhere else on earth he’d rather be. He has his brothers, a successful horse business and a new home on the land that’s belonged to his family for generations. The only thing missing is someone to share it all with. And he has just the woman in mind.

Victoria Abrams is leaving the man she loves. She can no longer pretend he will one day see her as more than a friend or housekeeper. But J.T. is not about to let the sexy woman who has tempted him for months with her lush body and beautiful face slip away without a fight.


Purchase Tempting Tori from Ellora’s Cave at http://www.jasminejade.com/pm-7046-172-tempting-tori.aspx or http://www.ellorascave.com/productpage.asp?ISBN=9781419919381

Emotional~Sensual~Satisfying Reads!
http://www.njwalters.com

Monday, March 9, 2009

Heroes

I'm watching the TV show Heroes right now. The first season of Heroes was fantastic in my book. They had me watching every week. Save the Cheerleader, Save the World.

Last season was ehhhhh. I didn't get into it as much as I did the first season.

They have been trying to come back the second part of this season.

The reason it worked for me and why it's starting to again is because of characters. Strong characterization can suck me in anytime.

I've seen characters take on new life. I've seen characters who could have been totally unsympathetic become, if not heroic, interesting to watch. Dexter anyone? Sylar from Heroes? Heck, Clooney's original character from ER was a drunk.

A lot of that is the actor who portrays them.

As authors we don't have that advantage of actors to bring our characters to life. But we can do that. With writing. Quirks. Characteristics. Actions that speak more than words. Careful consideration. Fabulous dialogue. All those things can make the character pop from the page.

An author's toolbox is full. And here's hoping I use it on this next story. I hope to stretch myself.

Mechele Armstrong aka Lany of Melany Logen
http://www.mechelearmstrong.com
http://www.melanylogen.com

Saturday, February 21, 2009

And more purdy covers ....


Yeah, I know -- mine don't have nekkid people. But I still love it! Here's where it's available in download. And here's where it's available in print.

The cover has all the elements of the book: the sandy beach, the rope used to kill the male model, the glass of wine (from the bottle that almost killed the heroine), the feral cat found on the beach.

When I put in a cover request, I always say "no people, especially no naked people." I don't write R-rated books. Mine are what I call "sexy cozy" mysteries, or, as my tag line says, "Mystery with a touch of romance; romance with a touch of gray."

This book is the second in my Fatal Writers' Conference series and takes place at ClueCon, a fictional mystery conference I created. It's loosely based on a combination of RT and Sleuthfest -- and I mean LOOSE. ClueCon is all about the Clue board game, so the writing awards are the Miss Scarlett (best erotic mystery), the Professor Plum, etc.

I had such a blast devising this conference and all that goes with it, not to mention having a blast killing off a publisher, an author and a few other folks. You see, that's why I like to write mysteries. I get to do in anybody who annoys me.

My list is long and I plan to keep writing for a long, long time....

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

New release and new cover goodness


*points left* See my new cover. Isn't it lovely?

I adore April Martinez. She's such a fantastic artist.


I'm really excited about I HEART THAT CITY: Body Shots, which is a part of a multi-author series and released yesterday from Loose Id.


Blurb:


Joe and Daphne go to I Heart That City every Thursday night to celebrate being together one more week. They almost lost their marriage and themselves to a former lover, who only wanted Daphne.


When Amos sees the happy couple, he knows he must capture them on film. Only he really wants to capture them for himself. Inviting them to let him take pictures only makes his longing more intense. And he's not the only one feeling the sexual spark. Joe and Daphne find themselves attracted to the man who seems to find both of them desirable.

One problem: they've taken a break from threesomes. When they decide to try and see where things go, passions explode with body shots on camera, and on Daphne and Joe with tequila. But Daphne's past has her in its sights and it could ruin everything.



Mechele Armstrong aka Lany of Melany Logen

Valentine's Read!


If you're in the mood for love this Valentine's Day, check out my Ellora's Cave Quickie, Anastasia’s Style.


BLURB:

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

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

Monday, February 9, 2009

Friday the 13th

No, not the horror movie :).

My kidlets realized that this Friday is Friday the 13th. They both went "Ahhhhhh! It's unlucky."

Now it started me thinking. Where does this come from?

Neither of them is old enough to know or have seen the horror movie of the same name.

I will say, I'm a superstitious person. I knock on wood, think things come in threes, blah blah. The hubby laughs at me.

But I can't remember ever having bad luck on a Friday the 13th or being particularly upset about it coming.

I started researching Friday the 13th to see if I could find the origin of the thinking and there is some dissension as to when the idea started that it's bad luck and also why. Some says it's a recent thing. Others credit the arrest of the Knights Templar on a Friday the 13th. Others say oral tradition had 12 as complete, while 13 was irregular, and Friday was bad luck. So blend the two, and you have the start of a superstition. Others credit the Norse.

Honestly, I've had more bad luck on Valentine's Day than any other day *blinks*I can think of. Someone is usually sick (stomach flu on year, ear infections one year and more) or gets terribly hurt (the youngest kidlet fractured both wrists on Feb 14th when she was 4).

What do you all think of Friday the 13th? Myth or reality? Why? And do you have another bad luck day?

Mechele Armstrong aka Lany of Melany Logen
http://www.mechelearmstrong.com/
http://www.melanylogen.com/

Sunday, February 8, 2009

Book Signing at the Glendale Chocolate Affaire

This will be my third day out at the annual Glendale Chocolate Affaire in Glendale, Arizona.

For those of you who have never heard of the Chocolate Affaire - you're missing out! It's a huge annual event with crafts, bands, horse drawn carriage rides, tours of the Ceretta Chocolate Factory, chocolate covered everything (cream puffs, key lime pie, cheesecake, twinkies, cookies, marshmallows, rice crispy treats, bananas, strawberries etc, etc, etc) not to mention fudge, enough other food to compete with any fair, home made rootbeer and much more. But, of course, my favorite part is that we are also billed as the Southwest's largest gathering of romance writers. (Sounds like migrating geese, doesn't it? lol)

Anyway, I've been signing all weekend along with tons of other authors and I give a workshop today on Plotting: The Right Way, The Wrong Way & What Works For You and then more signing! :)

If you're anywhere near the Glendale area, come on out and say hi!

Tina

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Join me!

There is a great romance website (http://www.ireadromance.com/) and they are starting up their own chat list and guess what...they will talk about BOOKS. What a concept, a romance list actually talks about books.

No drive by author promos, no random promotional companies spamming you with ads...

The grand opening is Friday and I will be one of the featured authors! So stop on by because I'll be posting exclusive excerpts from Educating Jane Porter and Rites of Spring, the second installment in the Coven series.

(http://groups.yahoo.com/group/i_read_romance/)

Monday, January 26, 2009

Welcome to Winter!

The pretty lights and sparkles of December have given way to the seeming unending darkness of January. In many parts of the world, the cold, bleak winter has settled in now that the holidays are behind us. I know it’s cold and snowy where I live.

Now, that’s great if you’re an outdoor enthusiast. There’s skiing, skating, hitting the trails on your snowmobile and a host of other snow-related activities to participate in. I, however, am not a winter person. I much prefer the sunny, hot days of summer, which is ironic considering I live in a place where there is definitely more winter than summer. This is the time of year I tend to make like a bear and hibernate.

Now it’s not all bad. I do like to go out for walks on those crisp, cold winter days when the wind is not blowing a gale. This is also the time of year I like to stockpile my writing so when it gets warmer I can take some time off. From January to May, I like to write two or three books, depending on length. Summer is an easy time to write as well because of the long days and hours of sunshine. Personally, I find autumn the hardest season of all to get any work done. And you can forget getting anything done during the month of December. You’d think I’d learn, but each year I tell myself I’ll get so much writing done before the holidays hit and wind up disappointed.

Oh well, it’s a new year and winter is a good time to curl up inside and get some good writing done. It’s also a great time to curl up with one of the many books in my TBR pile and enjoy. After all, you can’t work all the time and there are plenty of long, cold nights ahead that are perfect for curling up with a cup of tea, a blanket and a good book.

The wind is howling and rattling the windowpanes, the snow is whipping up outside, and summer is but a distant memory. But I’m nice and toasty inside. All in all, it’s not so bad.

Welcome to Winter.

Emotional~Sensual~Satisfying Reads!
http://www.njwalters.com
http://www.njwalters.blogspot.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/awakeningdesires/ (newsletter group)
THREAD OF DESTINY—Ellora’s Cave
BY THE BOOK—Samhain Publishing