Happy New Year!

Or Hogmanay as the case may be...

People say out with the old and in with the new, but I have a feeling tomorrow will be the same as today. But hey, the Mummers are on!

May 2010 be everything you work hard for and better than you think. And when in doubt, remember those closest to you-appreciate them, spend time with them, and remember the great times.

Auld Lang Syne:
Should auld acquaintance be forgot
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot
And auld lang syne?

Merry SeXmas!

Want more spicy Christmas stories? This anthology includes the ONE vampire story I've done. I have plans for a sequel but never managed to do more than say I had plans for a sequel. Maybe 2010!(Also available in print from Amazon.) Merry SeXmas Anthology:

Memorable:
Jozette Bellrose doesn’t remember how she ended up in the hospital. When a handsome stranger claiming to be her husband promises answers to her past, she willingly follows. Drawn to this familiar stranger, Jozette is caught in the secrets of her past, and his.

Nicholas has spent years trying to return to his beloved wife. The only thing he’s wanted, now that he has the chance to win her back, he doesn’t waste any time. But what will happen when she remembers the truth of their marriage?

Caught in a winter wonderland days before Christmas, can Nicholas overcome the hurt of the past? Or will he be the only one to remember their lives together?

Red Bow:

Jessica Oberon is a working mother of two. She and her husband, Kenneth, barely see each other any more between their high powered jobs and family. Twelve days before Christmas she receives her annual note from her lover. They only partake in these games during Christmas, and this one is no different. Thrilled, she plans to meet him wherever he instructs.

First is a hotel room, then the fitting room in Saks, then to Vermont for a night in a chalet. Jessica loves these adventures, and tries to hide it from her children. Christmas Eve is spent with her lover and Christmas Day with her family. Every Christmas Kenneth gives her a note tied with a red satin bow. It's a good thing they have their 12 days of Christmas tradition. Their roll playing is the perfect way to keep the spark alive in their marriage.

Four Calling Birds

This is my contribution to the 12 Days of Christmas series Ravenous put out last year. You can buy the stories you want individually, including my short Four Calling Birds, or you can buy them all in the anthology: The 12 Hot Days of Christmas.

Four Calling Birds:

Lark Summers, Paige Nightingale, Megan Cardinal-Walsh, and Eva Robin are four best friends with a mission. This Christmas, they’re going to seduce the men in their lives - no matter what.

Lark has had the hots for her hunky professor since day one. Now that her Ph.D. program is over, there’s nothing standing in her way…or so she hopes.

Paige finally admits that her gorgeous neighbor has potential. Though he’s spent months pursuing her, she’s resisted. With the encouragement of her friends, she’s going to see if his chivalry is all a façade, or if he really is a knight in shining armor.

Megan has barely seen her husband in months. With their high-powered busy jobs, time together consists of a brief morning kiss goodbye and text messages that they’ll be late. Tonight, however, she’s going to show him who’s boss.

Eva is swamped with work and school and hasn’t had time to breathe, let alone see her longtime boyfriend. When he arrives home tonight, the scene is set - but who will be more surprised at the end of the night?

Wicked Seductions: Wanton Woman

There are 3 published books in the Wicked Seduction Series with Ravenous: Complicated Courtship, Wanton Woman, and Starlet.

What's the Wicked Seduction Series? Strong women who get what-rather who-they want no matter the costs. They aren't necessarily outgoing women with no shame, but they are women who are confident enough in themselves to go through this, either for love or for gratification, but who stick with it for the long term.

Wanton Woman: England 1810

Lady Abigail Ash hated they way people looked at her. Very lonely, she didn't want the virtuous reputation she held and looked for the perfect gentleman. Jonathon, Earl of Braden, has always wanted her but believes she's only interested in marriage. He's surprised and intrigued when she proposes an arrangement to the mutual pleasure of them both. But will it be enough?

Mouth dry, fingers immobile in the act of disrobing, Braden stared. “Never have I seen a lovelier vision,” he admitted.

Abby smiled and stepped forward. “Until we tire of each other.”

“Perfect,” he nodded, hard for her. His cock ached to be buried in her, and Braden tore off his shirt, boots, and breeches. Abby stood there, watching him. Raking his eyes over her body, Braden watched her nipples tighten and her breathing increase.

Abby walked slowly to the bed, gaze firm on Braden, to lean against the bedpost. He approached her, his desire of her evident; and almost grinned when she looked down at his cock.

One hand flitted from the bed to her waist, an unconscious caress from hip to belly and up to her breasts. Capturing her hand, Braden smoothed it down her body.

“Lady Ash,” he began.

“Abby,” she gazed up at him with a heated stare. “My name is Abby.”

With a wantonness that drove all thought from his head, she cupped his hand in hers and pressed it to her breast.

Christmas Eve

I'm off today and don't plan on writing. Christmas Eve all-day celebration planned! I'm pretty excited.

I redid the blog a bit, got rid of the black background, tightened up the sidebar. Any further ideas for the blog? Visual or content wise. :)

Wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas! Good wishes , healthy and happiness to all!

Guest: Penny Watson

Today I'd like to welcome fellow The Wild Rose Press author, Penny Watson. Her first release, Sweet Inspiration is now available in e-book!

1. What gave you the idea to write about Santa's children?

I knew that I wanted to write about the "heir" to the Klaus dynasty, the eldest son of St. Nicholas. Once I started brainstorming the story, I began to wonder about the rest of the family. I really enjoy reading romance series with a group of "brothers", like JR Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood books, and the St. John brothers in Karen Hawkins' Talisman Ring Series. I love the camaraderie, good natured ribbing, and inherent conflicts with a group of alpha males! So, I decided Santa should have five hot, single sons, who help him run the North Pole. :)

2. Are you a Christmas all year round person or just get into the spirit around November/Thanksgiving?

Writing this book made me a Christmas-all-year-round person, whether I wanted to be or not! I am sort of embarrassed to admit that I squeal with delight when I see one of those awesome Christmas-themed shops, loaded with cool ornaments and decorations. Even if it's July. My husband groans when I ask "Honey, do you mind if we just pop in this shop for a moment?" Hee hee...

I'm with you. :) I'm a Christmas all the time person. Christmas music in April? OK! Charlie Brown's Christmas in September? I'm there. Bing Corsby? Burl Ives? Any time of the year.

3. What's your favorite Christmas song? Favorite Christmas movie?

My favorite traditional Christmas song is God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. My favorite modern Christmas song is Celine Dion's Christmas Eve. We have a really fun tradition in our family. On Christmas Eve, we turn off all the lights except the Christmas tree, play this song, and dance around the living room!

My favorite Christmas movie is Elf. It's brilliant. I like his four major food groups...candy, candy canes, candy corns and syrup. Love it!

Thanks, Isabel, for the fun interview. I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Thanks for stopping by, Penny. And for those interested in Sweet Inspiration, I can highly recommend it.

Here's an excerpt from Sweet Inspiration....

Nicholas carefully folded his coat over the back of a café chair and watched Lucy giggle with the children, as the puppy (lucky bastard) licked her face like an ice cream cone. He could barely contain his irritation.

First of all, a dog had no place in a dining establishment. What the hell was the woman thinking? Secondly, if a customer attempted a last-minute order change, Nicholas would firmly instruct him that all orders were final five days prior to the gathering. How could one efficiently run a kitchen without rules? Thirdly, and most importantly, Nicholas could smell gingerbread. Cookies. And they were burning. Lucy was oblivious. And her young assistant with the nose ring was leaning over the front counter watching the puppy, utterly clueless about the impending culinary disaster.

Nicholas tapped his foot impatiently, waiting for someone to remember the cookies. He knew by the scent that the cookies were browning, probably a bit too dark around the edges. Still waiting. Now the assistant was snuggling with the puppy, and an old man was regaling Lucy with some ridiculous story. Oh, the hell with it.

Nicholas marched into the kitchen, which was surprisingly clean, found a pair of oven mitts shaped like Laurel and Hardy, and removed the cookies from the oven. He found wire racks in a cupboard and lined them up on the counter. Although the cookies were a tad dark, they were still salvageable. Thanks to him. Using a spatula, he carefully transferred each gingerbread man to cool on the racks. He washed and dried his hands at the sink, and turned around to find Lucy and her nose-pierced assistant staring at him in disbelief.

Lucy stepped up to him, hands on her hips. “Just what do you think you’re doing in my kitchen? I don’t remember inviting you in here!” Lucy asked him incredulously.

“Yeah!” added the assistant. Clearly not the brightest bulb on the planet.

“Since you and your assistant were too busy to tend to the kitchen, and an entire order of gingerbread was about to go up in smoke, I thought I would lend a helping hand. No need to thank me.” Nicholas smiled and raised his left eyebrow in a manner his brother Sven insisted was infuriating.

“Thank you? Kandy and I are more than capable of looking after the kitchen. We do not need your help, Mr....?”

“Klaus. Nicholas Sebastian Klaus. Is your assistant really named Candy? How... charming.”

“It’s Kandy Kane, with a K, not a C. I’m a performance artist.” The young woman gave him a rather lukewarm smile.

“Fascinating.” Nicholas turned to Lucy, who looked ready to murder him. Good going, Nick, how are you supposed to seduce her now?

“I run my own kitchen up north. I assumed you wouldn’t mind a little help, since you were...momentarily distracted. Have I told you that your sugar cookies are divine? They are, truly. I was wondering if we could discuss the subtle flavor profile...”

Lucy crossed her arms, glaring at him. “Mr. Klaus, while I appreciate your concern for my cookies, I can assure you I do not need any more help in my kitchen. Why don’t you sit down with a cup of cocoa, and I’ll bring you some gingerbread cookies. Nice and dark, just the way I like them.” And then Miss Lucy Anne Brewster raised her right eyebrow in an utterly patronizing manner. Nicholas simply could not help himself. He raised his eyebrow right back. Two can play at this game.

A young man rushed into the kitchen, grabbed the performance artist and began to thrust his oddly pierced tongue into her mouth.

“Oh Kandy, can you ever forgive me? Let’s get married right now. Vegas, baby, what do you say? I want our bambino to have a daddy.” Nicholas noted that in addition to his creatively pierced face, tongue-boy also sported a nice assortment of tattoos, all of candy. Peppermints, butterscotch balls, M-and-Ms, and of course, candy canes.

“Ray, I missed you.” Miss Kane began thrusting her tongue right back at him.

Nicholas turned to Lucy. “Ray? That’s not too original.”

Lucy shrugged. “Ray, as in Ray-of-Sunshine. They’re both performance artists.” Then she turned to her assistant and tapped her on the shoulder.

“Kandy, you are forbidden to leave me right now. It’s the middle of our busiest season, and I need you. You and Ray can get married after the new year...”

“But I don’t want to wait, Miss Brewster. I love him!”

Ray licked the side of his girlfriend’s face, and both Nicholas and Lucy shuddered. “Yeah, and I got tickets for us to see Celine Dion, your favorite, honey.”

Lucy watched in disbelief as her assistant bundled up in a parka, plopped on a red Santa hat, and flew out the door with the gangly boy. Nicholas bit his tongue to keep from laughing. Served the woman right for hiring such a flake in the first place.

Leaning down close to Lucy’s ear, he whispered, “Need a new assistant? I just happen to know the perfect gentleman for the job.”

Check out Penny's site and her blog, and be sure to leave a comment here...I'll be giving away a Vice Versa purse to one random person. To be mailed AFTER Christmas. :)

Mere days and counting

Christmas is coming fast, and I think I actually have everything done. OK, I don't have any cookie baking done. And I'm not entirely wrapped. And my house is decorated but there are still things that could (but won't) go up.

But all in all, I declare myself finished! The wrapping can wait, I don't need all the presents for Christmas, anyway. We spread the holiday out in my family, less stress that way.

So even though tonight I'll be looking for a camera any place that I can stand the crowds, I still think I did pretty good this year.

Which brings me to what I'm grateful for from this weekend:
A snow day on Saturday so I could get wrapping done.
The 3,000 words I barely managed this weekend.
A job that closes for incliment weather.
A wood stove.
Online shopping!

What are you thankful for this holiday season?

Bitten by Books reveiws

This weekend I received 4 reviews from Bitten by Books. Three for my Druids series, Murder & Magick, Sex & Subterfuge, and Desert & Destiny, and one for Shadow State, my 1934 German werewolf story.


Shadow State first, because my wehrwölfes hold a special place in my heart. 5 Tombstones: My only complaint is that the story was so short; the people and surrounding periphery were intriguing, and I would have loved to get more of it all. I hope Ms. Roman has more of these stories in the works as I’m bound to gobble them up as well. Be prepared to devote all your time to completing this one - it was hard to put down!


Now onto my Druids series. Jennifer reviewed the first 3 so far. Here's what she has to say:

Murder & Magick 4.5 Tombstones
Love and responsibility battle in this beautiful, historical tale of suspense. This was well-written, and the characters are extremely well-developed; the author does a wonderful job of creating strong leads that are still capable of showing emotion for one another.







Sex & Subterfuge 3.5 Tombstones


Now I admit, this isn't my strongest story, but I'm still pleased with her review:
Overall, though, this isn’t a bad continuation of the series. I will definitely continue reading, and hope that the third book goes back to the intensity and quality of the first.








Desert & Destiny 4.5 Tombstones
These books just keep getting and better with each installment. It’s wonderful how the author continues to build upon the characters and situations from book to book, and the romance develops so naturally. Especially when considered how the foundations were purely physical, Ms. Roman does an excellent job of developing the passion into true romance.






About Temptations & Treachery she says: I look forward to reading the fourth in the series!

Wicked Seductions: Complicated Courtship

There are 3 published books in the Wicked Seduction Series with Ravenous: Complicated Courtship, Wanton Woman, and Starlet.

What's the Wicked Seduction Series? Strong women who get what-rather who-they want no matter the costs. They aren't necessarily outgoing women with no shame, but they are women who are confident enough in themselves to go through this, either for love or for gratification, but who stick with it for the long term.

Complicated Courtship 1774 Boston

Kirsten St. Clair wonders how to win back her fiancé's love. James Montgomery never meant to ignore Kirsten, but he's got smuggling charges hanging over his head and an unwanted British soldier eating him out of house and home. When Kirsten arrives intent on seduction, how can any red-blooded male resist?

Kirsten smoothed the front of her dress again. They waited in the parlor for James’ butler to retrieve him from whatever business took his time today. She’d sent a note round telling him of her visit, so she knew he was home. Hoped he would be and didn’t forget she was coming.

That was an insult she didn’t think her nerves could take.

It was bad enough she’d agreed to Margaret’s scheme. When her stepmother began telling her all the ways for a man and woman to be together, she thought. . . well she hadn’t been sure what to think.

Except she wanted to try those positions with James.

Which caused her to blush harder and hope he arrived soon.

Footsteps echoed on the floor and she turned, a smile already on her face.

1st anniversary

Today is Ravenous Romance's One Year Anniversary.


Meaning it's also the One Year Anniversary of me being published. They picked up the first of my Druids books, Murder & Magick at RWA in San Fransisco (and the other 3 on synopsis) and I have to say, for my first national conference, it was definitely worth the price of admission!

(Technically, The Wild Rose Press offered me a contract first in July for my Civil War story, In the Shadows, and I already knew I won the Got Wolf? Contest with their Black Rose line but that isn't the point.)

Actually seeing my book up on a site and for sale is today. I'm pretty psyched.

In one year, I've had 5 full-length novels published with them, all of which have received great reviews, and, hmm, let me count...maybe 12 short stories either in anthologies or as stand-alones. Wow. 12? Sheesh!

This last year has been crazy busy, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I've enjoyed writing for them, and they've been great in return. The whole Home Shopping Network deal was a fantastic bonus!!

Here's wishing Ravenous many more years and even greater sales! (What? They're my publisher, I want them to do good!)

Reviews and Thanksgiving

I ate too much yesterday. Even after promising myself I'd save room for turkey, stuffing mashed & sweet potatoes, corn, string beans, etc., etc., etc., I still overindulged in a wide variety of appetisers. Why so much? we ask the same question every year. It's not as if there isn't enough dinner to go around! So I ate too much, did nothing but eat pie and watch TV later, and crashed very early.


And no. I didn't get up this AM for Black Friday Shopping.


There's only so much abuse a body can take and mine was over it's limit with the eating. Any more and there would've been a revolt.


Then there were the lovely reviews I saw in my inbox! Whipped Cream Reviews gave Desert & Destiny 5 Cherries!

Holly said: Isabel Roman has once again taken us back in time to revisit her Druidic masters. The usual cast of characters is present: Raven and Malcolm, Lucien and Morgana, and Lady Isadore Harrington are all here. At the onset, Gareth is still bitter and resentful of Malcolm, Lord Preston for seducing and marrying Raven, and it colors many of his actions. But Arabelle realizes she cares for Gareth, and does all she can to win him over.

The location this time, Egypt of the late 1800’s, is one of contrasts.
There are luxurious hotels catering to the tourists and crumbling hovels that the native people live in almost next to each other. The characters are, as always, richly charismatic and superbly detailed. The women are strong and intelligent, and as willing to jump into the fray as the men are.

The action is fast and exciting, the mystery engaging, and the romance is searingly hot. For anyone who likes a bit of history with their romance, this one fills the bill quite nicely. Do Gareth and Arabelle get the happy ever after they deserve? Read Dark Desires of the Druids III: Desert and Destiny and find out.

And Manic Readers gave Sex & Subterfuge 4 Stars! Oh, yeah, I'm thrilled with both reviews, they made my entire week.

IvyD said: Morgana is as different from Raven as you can get. Older, widowed and very secure in both her magick and position as Master. She wields both effortlessly and plays the game well. The need for secrecy is just as strong in America as England. The politics haven’t changed much and people in power still want the magickers eradicated. It’s always fascinating when two strong willed independent people are as attracted to each other as Lucien and Morgana are. Will the very qualities they value, respect and admire bring them together or tear them apart? Not only do they have their own natures to deal with but the responsibilities they both shoulder are no small matter and literally, an ocean apart. The tension ratchets up when a dire threat against the American magickers and Morgana herself is discovered. How can it be nullified without sacrificing all that’s been established?

Dark Desires Of The Druids II: Sex And Subterfuge, the second installment of the Druids series is just as interesting a read as the first. There is danger, treachery, romance and passion aplenty. Takoda, Morgana’s self-appointed body guard is an intriguing character I’d like to learn more about. All in all, a worthy follow up to the Murder And Magick.

Stories, plots, overwhelming insanity

I've been remiss in a great many things this month. I haven't checked my normal blogs and miss these online gems not to mention my online friends! I haven't even updated MY blog (aside from Susan's interview) in who knows how long.

I have at lest 2 blogs on stuff I gleamed from the New Jersey Romance Writer's Conference, not to mention short hit and run ones on the Civil War, Russian research, WWI and its aftermath research, paranormal research, etc.

What have I been doing? Typing my fingers to the bone. Writing synopsi, plotting out a 5 books historical series, and adding 10,000 words to a story I considered finished which isn't the easiest thing I've ever done. I've had so many stops and starts with that it's sad, but I prevail.

All this means that I'm going to cut back on my online time, focus my energies on my writing, and hope for the best. We'll see how that goes.

Thank a Veteran

Today is Veteran's Day or Armistice Day around the world. It celebrates the end of World War I (or The Great War) on November 11, 1918 at 11am: the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. From The US Department of Veteran Affairs:

In November 1919, President Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day with the following words: "To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…"

Originally, celebrations were observed with parades and public meetings, and a brief suspension of business beginning at 11:00 a.m. Act 52 Stat. 351; 5 U. S. Code, Sec. 87a approved on May 13, 1938, made the November 11 a legal holiday—a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as "Armistice Day."

Armistice Day was primarily a day set aside to honor veterans of World War I, but in 1954, after World War II and after Americans fought in Korea, the 83rd Congress, at the urging of the veterans service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word "Armistice" and inserting in its place the word "Veterans." With the approval of this legislation (Public Law 380) on June 1, 1954, November 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

On October 8, 1954 President Dwight D. Eisenhower issued the first "Veterans Day Proclamation" which stated:

"In order to insure proper and widespread observance of this anniversary, all veterans, all veterans' organizations, and the entire citizenry will wish to join hands in the common purpose. Toward this end, I am designating the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs as Chairman of a Veterans Day National Committee, which shall include such other persons as the Chairman may select, and which will coordinate at the national level necessary planning for the observance. I am also requesting the heads of all departments and agencies of the Executive branch of the Government to assist the National Committee in every way possible."

So today, despite having off, no school, or just another day of your week, please remember those who fought, past and present, in our Armed Forces. They deserve our respect, our thanks, and our gratitude no matter what your politics are.

Winners!

We have 2 winners, one for my guest spot on Susan's blog, and one for her guest spot here.

The winner of Sweet Redemption and the deliciously troubled Jonathan is Mary Ricksen! Please contact Susan for your PDF of the story.

The winner of Shadow State, indeed the entire Taming of the Wolf anthology is Skye! Please send me your email!

Interview with a Vampire

Please welcome back Susan Macatee. Today we're talking---

Hello, Isabel. I'm sorry to interupt your introduction, but you're not talking to Susan today.

Oh. Well then...even better. (Sorry, Susan! *bumps her out the window*) Hello, Jonathan. Welcome to my blog. Let's talk.

First, let’s dispense with the formalities. What is your full name?
Captain Jonathan Hackett

Where are you from?
I was born in York, Pennsylvania in 1832.

Vampirism – that must be frightening. How did it happen?
Just recently, I was pinned down by Rebels on the battlefield at Fredericksburg. All of my troops who hadn’t escaped had been killed or died and I was left alone until a strange man came to my aid, or at least that’s what I thought. But he attacked me and shortly after, I began to
exhibit an aversion to daylight and a craving for blood. All attributes of a vampire.

Fascinating. Are you familiar with vampires? Or were you before this happened?
I’ve heard tales of such creatures, but always thought them to be myth. Although, demons certainly do exist in many forms, so why couldn’t bloodsucking beings, that shun daylight and corrupt the living be walking among us?

I understand that you left the church. Tell me about that.
Sighs. I fear I lost my faith and couldn’t live a lie. I left and, when the war broke out, I joined the Union army.

Do you think leaving the church and being bitten by a vampire are related in some way?
I’m sure my sin of breaking my lifelong vows caused God to turn his back on me and send this demonic creature to take my soul.

How can you make a life with Maddie Emory with impending vampirism looming over you?
I’ve decided I can’t and have to leave, because my cravings for her will doom her as well.

If you can’t break the curse, what will you do? Find other vampires, life alone on the streets or in the wilderness, or…?
I’ve decided the only place left for me would be to retreat to the wilderness away from civilization. I can’t bear the thought of harming or corrupting another human being.

Do you believe in destiny? That perhaps this was meant to be?
I can’t believe I was meant to suffer this fate. My only thought is that my sin of breaking my vows is what brought this creature to me.

How do you want this conflict to be resolved?
My hope is that by destroying the vampire, this curse can be reversed, but if not, I only wish for Maddie to live and find another man who can take care of her and love her. I want her to be happy, even if it must be without me. Shakes head.

I’d like to thank you, Isabel, for allowing me to tell my tale and bear
my soul today. I understand you write paranormal tales about werewolves. I don’t know much about them, except through legends, of course. Hopefully, I’ll never come across such a beast in my lifetime.

Jonathan! There you are. What are you doing here? Oh, hello, Isabel. Thank you for taking care of Jonathan, he hasn't been himself lately.

Not a problem, Susan, we've been getting to know each other better. *winks at Jonathan*

I hope you all enjoyed this look into Jonathan Hackett, my newest hero’s, life. Be sure to leave a comment today on this post to be entered in the drawing for a pdf copy of Sweet Redemption.

Guest: Susan Macatee

Today it's my great pleasure to welcome Susan Macatee today and tomorrow. Her newest story, Sweet Redemption, which comes out on Veteran's Day, 11-11-09. I've read this excerpt, as well as all Susan's other books, and I can't wait for this book! Plus, if you leave a comment or question (or both *G*) you'll be entered to win a copy of Sweet Redemption!

I’m delighted to be a guest on your blog today, Isabel! Here’s the blurb and an excerpt from my newest release.

Sweet Redemption
Vampire romance
Available November 11th from The Wild Rose Press

On a cold December night, Union infantry captain, Jonathan Hackett is pinned down on the Fredericksburg battlefield trying to escape Confederate fire. But a creature of the night, more dangerous than any enemy soldier, stalks him. Jon must fight for his life as well as his soul. Maddie Emery has lost everything dear to her. Her husband and parents had passed on and her brothers are off fighting in the Confederate Army. She’s alone, trying single-handedly to hold onto her family’s farm, when a Yankee soldier collapses across her stoop. Maddie and Jon form and bond of love and desire, but as Jon exhibits signs of becoming the creature he fears most, is their love enough to fight off the evil of a centuries old vampire bent on destroying them?

Excerpt:

Those knocks were not made by a wolf, but he suspected the wolf had something to do with Reverend Arnwolf. “Is the wolf his minion, or can he transform himself?” he said, under his breath.

“What?” Mrs. Emery moved close. Her scent invaded his thoughts. “Please, tell me what’s going on?”

Jon sighed. “When I said I was attacked by a wild dog, I lied.” He moved back to the settee and sat, his hands dangling between his knees.

She sat beside him, but held herself ramrod straight. “What or who attacked you?”

“I was pinned down on the battlefield. Spent the night in the freezing cold. All of my men had died. A man appeared. Claimed to be a minister from Austria.” Jon grimaced as he recalled Arnwolf’s blood-red eyes and the sharp pierce of his fangs as they entered Jon’s throat. “He offered to help me, but...instead he led me to an abandoned barn and attacked me.”

Mrs. Emery gasped. “You’re not saying this man—”

“He bit me on the throat.” Jon pushed his hand through his hair. “I don’t know exactly what he is, but he’s not human.”

“That’s who you believe was at the door?”

Jon nodded. “I don’t know how, but I now have a connection to him.” He fingered the bumps on his throat. “I know things about him I shouldn’t possibly know.”

Thanks again for having me, Isabel!

And tomorrow Isabel will be interviewing Jonathan Hackett! And all those who leave a comment on the interview post will be entered in a drawing to win a pdf copy of Sweet Redemption.

Win a copy of Kiss of Scandal!

I'm guest blogging at Unusual Historicals today. My newest release from Ravenous is Kiss of Scandal set in 1855 St. Petersburg. I loved researching this story, one because Russian history is a passion of mine, and two because the story itself relies heavily on setting. Could I have set this in London 1855? Sure, but it wouldn't have the same bite.

So join me, read the excerpt, read the interview, leave a comment!

Northern Roses and Southern Belles

Review! Long and Short Reviews gave the Civil War anthology 4.5 books!

Wild Plum said this about the anthology:

I think all of the authors did a great job with this anthology and so did the editors. I felt like I was involved in every story, I felt like I could smell the flowers and taste the crisp air. I felt the emotions the characters were feeling. It’s a great anthology that any historical fan will love.

About In the Shadows she said:

This was a different read for me from Isabel Roman. I have read a couple of her books and she’s more known for her erotic tales and her hot sex scenes. But this story was different. It was sensual but it was sweet and there was no sex. But Isabel Roman pulled it off. The characters were passionate and seemed like our next-door neighbors. The plot and the scenery were great. I felt like I was in the story, which seems to be common with this anthology. Isabel Roman did a great job. And I look forward to more sweet stories along with erotic stories from this author.

Northern Roses and Southern Belles is available from The Wild Rose Press in print and e-book. Also from Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Whipped Cream Romance

As I posted last week, Dark Desires of the Druids II: Sex and Subterfuge received a 4.5 cherry review from the Whipped Cream side of Long and Short Reviews. Today I found out that it's also Book of the Week!

Thanks Holly for the wonderful review, and thanks to those who voted for me.

I also appreciated the research that must have gone into this book to make everything so true to the time period. I respect the author’s time taken to get it right.

Up next, my Druids contest!

New review!

I suppose one day I'll be blasé about reviews, but not yet. Not for a while, either, I'm thinking! They give me a thrill that someone liked my books. That, while I love writing and won't stop, this person saw what I was trying to do with the story and got it. Makes it all worth while!

Dark Desires of the Druids II: Sex and Subterfuge received a 4.5 Cherry Review from Whipped Cream Romance!

Holly said: Isabel Roman has stepped up the action in this second book of her series. The characters are all well defined and multi-faceted. Morgana is a strong woman, but one who is willing to give all to those she cares deeply for....If you are looking for a story with intrigue, magick and lots of hot sex (I’ll never look at a dining room table quite the same again). Keep the fan on high and enjoy.

Taming of the Wolf, now available!

Today, my short story, Shadow State, is released in the Taming of the Wolf anthology from The Wild Rose Press. I'm over at Black Rose, but here's the blog I posted there:

Ancient runes, occult legends and dark gods bring to mind the supernatural, paranormal tales we've heard all our lives but how often does it bring to mind...Nazis?

However, the Nazis and Hitler particularly were fascinated by all things occult. Many people do not realize that most of the Nazi symbolism comes from ancient runic markings. The Nazis were obsessed with all things occult or Druid in origin; in fact Hitler based many of his most controversial policies on ancient occult teachings or theories.

For instance: he believed the Aryan race was descended from the Nordic gods which in turn was a race saved after the lost continent of Atlantis' residents took refuge in the Scandinavian countries. Hitler firmly believed that the Aryan race lost their innate supernatural powers (such as telepathy, superior strength, etc.) because of interbreeding with lesser races. This belief was the main reason behind his ethnic cleansing and eugenics policies.

It was shocking how rich the Nazi world and mythos was for the setting of a paranormal story. They were into absolutely everything and their views were skewed toward the belief of the supernatural, they believed themselves to be supernatural actually.

The Indiana Jones movies are not far off the mark as to the fervent pursuit the Nazi's engaged in when hunting religious artifacts, lost legends and the like. It is well documented that they went on a crusade for the Holy Grail and The Spear of Destiny. In fact, it is theorized that Hitler started WWII in order to acquire The Spear of Destiny.

In my short story, Shadow State, I took these facts and used them to create my fictitious world where wehrwölfes or wölfes lived hidden in German society until one fateful day when a group of SS officers capture a man after he changed into his wölfe form.

The story then follows Christoph, the clan leader and Elsa, a defacto pack leader, through their journey to rescue the captured wölfe and explore the feelings they have for each other. Strasser, the SS flunky, is single-minded in his intent to learn their secrets and to create more wölfes.

EXCERPT:

“Based on what you’ve told me regarding the subject’s reaction to the dogs you introduced, I can only assume he was raised around other rabid beasts. Tell me, Karl,” he reverted to the familiar now that the interview was over. “Where did you find the…man?”

With an uncharacteristic huff, Strasser leaned back in the chair. “We picked him up in Neukölln after he attacked a mob. The details are unclear, but I understand it took four men to bring him in.” He sat up and added, “Four men, even though the beast had taken two gunshot wounds.”

“Hmm,” Gerard said to cover his disgust at Erik’s treatment. “Neukölln, I would have said in one of the outer provinces.”

“I want you to set up a test,” Strasser stood. “I’m going to have a subject brought in from the prisons. If the beast bites him, we can create more of these unusual creatures.”

“You believe the legends of the wehrwölfe?” Gerard asked.

Strasser offered a smile that made him sick. “There’s one way to find out.”

Kiss of Scandal review!

4 steaming cups of coffee from Coffee Time Romance for Kiss of Scandal!

Kim says: This remarkable story paints a vivid picture of life in the Russian court with all its intrigues and dangers. The characters are well written and their emotions are brought to life. The action is fast paced and believable. You will enjoy this story.

October

It has a mysticism all its own. October is the month of true autumn, of eerie nights and haunted sightings. It's Halloween with all the connotations that go with that. I don't mind October, though it does get colder and I'm not a fan of the cold, it's also a time for fires and marshmallows and hot chocolate and new shoes. *G*

This October I'm going to have a contest the last 2 weeks of the month. It's something I've been working on since, oh, August. Time has flown, what can I say. Really flown. I have new release this month from The Wild Rose Press, Taming of the Wolf. It's been a long time coming but I'm thrilled with the story and the release.

But that's now what this contest is about, despite the werewolf aspect of that story.

No, this contest is for my Druids series. Each book is different in both tone and characters, dealing with a variety of themes such as duty, grief, forgiving , and taking chances. And each book deals with these themes in its own way.

I'm going to finalize everything on my end this week and then post what's what next week. Be on the lookout!

Murder & Magick
Sex & Subterfuge
Desert & Destiny
Temptations & Treachery

Over at Dayana Knights!

Morning! Today I'm guest blogging at Dayana Knight's fantastic blog for an Author Spotlight. Please stop by. ;) I'm talking about writing paranormals, my newest release from The Wild Rose Press, Shadow State, and why writing the dreaded synopsis is the worst!

Echo in the Bone and New Review

Manic Readers reviewed Murder and Magick, giving it 4 stars! IvyD had this to say:

The Dark Desires of the Druids I: Murder and Magick immediately captured me with its blend of history, romance, suspense and touch of paranormal. Raven is an appealing heroine. Still young, she retains some of the impetuousness of youth while also having quite a load on her shoulders.

Now I've finished Echo in the Bone by Diana Gabaldon. Have some mixed feelings about it, but overall am pleased. Since I literally finished it at 11:45 last night, I haven't written a review, but will. We'll see who agrees with me and who doesn't then. :)

New great reviews!

Two Home Shopping Network readers enjoyed my books!

Lizzee from MN had this to say about Dark Desires of the Druids I: Murder and Magick

I got the historical package and have found one or two new authors that I'd read again. I can't say I thought all of the books were great, but did enjoy Isabel Roman's Dark Druid

And Christinereader from NJ had this to say about Kiss of Scandal

I started with "Kiss of Scandal", since I don't remember reading a Russian historical. WOW! I could literally feel the weather, almost as a character in the story. I wanted to curl up under a blanket to get out of the cold Russian winter! And it was in the low 80s when I read the story!

She then went on to say she'd read Murder and Magick next. Pretty cool!

Where I'm at today

Blogging about upstairs maids at Slip into Something Victorian

At TWRP's Black Rose blog about 4 pm for my intro

Stop by and say hi! *G*

Oh, and NCIS last night. Damn, that was good! Anyone else watch that? Thoughts, observations, comments on the coming season?

Kiss of Scandal-now available from Ravenous Romance!

Echo in the Bone

I have the latest Diana Gabaldon book, An Echo in the Bone. All 800+ pages of it. Not her longest but certainly up there. No wonder it takes her 3 years to write a book! As I said before, I've read her since the first one, Outlander, was published. I started this already, and am disappointed it has so much of characters I don't care about!

But I won't add in spoilers here, I'll dutifully finish it (probably by tomorrow night lol) and then judge.

Alas, I'll have to take a break from reading for my 2 hours worth of NCIS. I'm so pathetically excited about the premier, it's sad. So one hour for NCIS then the series premiere of NCIS: Los Angeles. I'm not as excited about that, but will give it a chance. I enjoyed the 2 shows (Legend I and II) set during the NCIS season 6, but found the characters bleh.

I didn't care about any of them but Chris O'Donnell and LL Cool J. Cause, well, LL Cool J is just sexy and at least Chris O'Donnell can act! And there you have it. I hated the psychiatrist guy, so very stereotypical and instantly annoying, and I don't even know who the grunting gun-wielding chick who had 2 lines is.

BUT Linda Hunt is now on it, so there's hope.

Got Wolf?

In less than a month my short story, Shadow State, will be released in The Wild Rose Press's Got Wolf? anthology, Taming of the Wolf. I'm pretty excited about it, it's been a long time coming. The call went out for submissions for the contest in like February 2008, the deadline was August 2008, and the winners announced October 31, 2008. I remember that date specifically because it's Halloween. ;)

It was November 1, and I realized the announcement time had passed and I hadn't heard anything, so I frantically scoured TWRP site (nothing) and then the Internet. Found the announcement on Dayana Knight's blog. I'd won first place! OK, I admit, I skimmed the names, didn't see mine, looked again, STILL didn't see mine, and realized I hadn't won until I took a second to actually read the names. Oh, huh...I WON!

After all that, and working with the great editors over at the Black Rose line, it was a long time before the anthology was ready. Or I thought so, lol, but I'm sure probably not. And now the authors are gearing up for our marketing launch. We're all pretty excited. OK, really excited, Shadow State is a favorite story.

I'll be on the Black Rose's Blog introducing myself on Wednesday afternoon, be sure to stop by for a bit on how I researched my werewolf story!

Kiss of Scandal now available from Ravenous in e-book and from The Home Shopping Network in print!

Diana Gabaldon

Her newest book, An Echo in the Bone will be released next Tuesday, 9/22/09. I'm REALLY looking forward to it! I've read all her books, well her Outlander Series, from the first one when it was published back in the day...1991 I think. My favorites are the first 3, since they deal primarily with Jamie and Claire. I love Brianna but not so much Roger, and often skim over their story. But the Jamie and Claire parts are wonderful, and the first 3 (Outlander, Dragonfly in Amber, and Voyager) are the best in their evolving story.

Kiss of Scandal: Available in e-form from Raveous Romance and in print from Home Shopping Network!

Home Shopping Network

I spent a good portion of yesterday watching HSN and online at www.hsn.com. If you missed it, Ravenous Romance made their debut at 8 am, 4 pm, and 3 am selling their trade paperback books, 2 of mine included: Kiss of Scandal and Murder and Magick.

In the randomness that is my mind I bing-ed (as opposed to googled) them and found this article. I don't know why I liked the article, but I did. It's from 2002.

It started with 112 can openers

My favorite part:

Twenty-five years ago this month, in a little strip mall on Hercules Avenue
in Clearwater, Bob Circosta was doing a news talk show on WWQT-AM 1470.An
advertiser called the station. He was short on funds, so instead of money, he
offered up 112 Rival electric can openers. Olive green. (What? It was the '70s.)

"I couldn't believe it," Circosta recalled. "I said, "What?"'

Circosta, who was 27 at the time, wanted to be a news anchor at a major TV
network. Another Cronkite or Brinkley. Not a small appliance salesman.

He sold all 112 in about an hour.

Today: Night Owl Romance

I'm blogging about the difficulties in researching non-traditional historical places over at Night Owl Romance. Specifically Russia 1855 and the research troubles with Kiss of Scandal. Come join me! I'll be giving away a prize, too.

And speaking of Kiss of Scandal...today at 8am and 4 pm EST then again tomorrow at 3 am EST, I'll be one of the Ravenous authors in the Home Shopping Network! Kiss of Scandal and Dark Desires of the Druids I: Murder and Magick will be in the Historical package, and Kiss of Scandal will be in the mixed package. Come check us out!

EXCITING NEWS!!

I've been sitting on this news for a while, anxiously jumping up and down, dieing to tell someone!!! And suddenly, finally I've been given leave to do so. Tomorrow, Monday September 14 at 8 am and 4 pm, and Tuesday September 15 at 3 am, I'll be on the Home Shopping Network!

Needless to say, I was shocked. My publisher, Ravenous Romance, inked a distribution deal with HSN for their "Escape with Romance Collection", and included 2 of my stories, Kiss of Scandal and Murder and Magick.

That excited squeal during the day is just me and my fellow authors. I hope you'll be able to catch at least a bit of the time. I'm beyond excited.

4.25 Review!

Northern Roses and Southern Belles just received a 4.25 heart review from Night Owl Romance.

Knowing you or your lover may not live to see the next day tends to throw decorum out the window. These were all entertaining, informative stories that I enjoyed reading.

Read the entire review here.

So it's September

I feel like I should be in school. Damn, all that schooling really indoctrinated me to believe September was the end of summer and I should be ready for school! Have been trying to get out of that mindset for years now and yet with today being my city's official first day of school, it feels like nothing's changed. The weather sure hasn't.

So, with this horrible feeling like I should be sitting in a classroom, I'm going to post my September goals:

Blogging. Yup. Going to (really) be better at this. Not just here, but other places I blog, Slip into Something Victorian, Unusual Historicals, American Civil War: Beyond Scarlett & Rhett.

Finish my chapter breakdown to my untitled Switzerland 1797 story and begin it.

Write at least 2,000 words a day on this story.

Read some of my TBR pile without buying new stories. It's a weakness I'm sure all readers understand.

And if you're in the mood for Scandals throughout History, check out Unusual Historicals all month. It's our theme.

Guest Blogger: Keira from Love Romance Passion

The Perfect Romance Hero

Keira runs a book review blog for readers by readers on romance novels entitled Love Romance Passion. She’s been reading romance since she was a teenager and began blogging about romance so she could share her passion for her favorite genre. She loves reading paranormal, Regency, historical America, and highlander most of all and completely adores blind and wounded heroes.

Prompt: What do you look for in a romance hero?

I like this prompt! Let’s begin—10 qualities of a perfect romance hero:

1. My perfect romance hero would have to have a physical challenge. I have a big yen for blind heroes, with scarred and headache/migraine heroes coming close behind.

2. He’d have to be brooding, paranormal, or both. Since I’ve yet to hear of a blind vampire we’ll just stick with brooding. I’m a big softy for those dark and lonely souls with wounded hearts.

3. He’d have to be handy. I want a hero who can kill spiders, fight off bad guys, and build a house from the ground up with a Q-Tip. Nothing sexier than a guy who can be useful.

4. My hero must also be fiercely possessive. I love reading knuckle dragging heroes so long as they learn eventually to be secure in the steadfastness of the heroine’s affections.

5. He should also have a tender streak a mile wide. Hugs and healing touches are very much necessary to go with that scowl and teeth-gnashing. It’s a no brainer win-win.

6. Selflessness too. If he can desire her happiness and wellbeing over his own that just makes my heart flip over in its cavity.

7. I like a hero with diverse interests. There must be time for him to just be a guy and pal around with his buddies doing those things guys do: billiards, video games, watching sports, horseback riding, whatever. It’s all good to me.

8. Financial stable heroes win the day. While marauding pirates are great every now and then a hero who can provide for his heroine is definitely sexy. Maybe that’s why so many of the heroes are wealthy in romance?

9. Broad-shouldered, big hands, and tall. It’s what I like in a man in real life so let’s just transfer that straight to my perfect hero. Dark hair and blue eyes don’t hurt either!

10. Let’s not forget that he should be a skilled lover. Rainy days and lazy afternoons are best spent with a hero who’s great in the sack. Lots of cuddle time too!

Now it’s your turn to construct the perfect hero. Would you take points from my list or start from scratch?

Regencies

I'm doing an informal survey (7 questions) about Regencies and why they're so popular. If you'd like Regencies and want to participate, email me!

I've decided to call this The Lack of the Death of the Regency. Mostly because my most popular historical short story is my Regency one, Wanton Woman. Not Complicated Courtship set in Boston during the beginning of the American Revolution. Not Starlet set during the racy Prohibition. Regency.

Don't get me wrong, I love the era, but I want to know why. Why it's so popular, why the setting has endured, what draws people to it.

Behind, behind, behind!

I'm more organized than this, but the last week or so I feel very unorganized. I'm all spreadsheets, calendars, calendar reminders, color codes, you name it. Lately, I don't know what's going on, but none of that has happened.

I wanted to have a sort of scavenger hunt contest for my Druids series but never implemented it. My new plan for that is October, to coincide with my new release from The Wild Rose Press, Shadow State. (Werewolves, 1934 Germany, Got Wolf? anthology)

I'm also going to do something for Kiss of Scandal, but haven't refined what yet. Maybe not a scavenger hunt, possible a web hunt. I'll have to think more on that. Maybe something easier. :)

September already?

I'm not prepared. It was 56 degrees when I woke up this morning. Technically it's still summer, people! I want warmth! I want sun! I want to enjoy the beach as I haven't been able to do all summer!

I'll stop whining now. :) But 56 on September 1? Ridiculous.

I've switched my 1807 Regency story from England to 1797 Switzerland. There was a lot more going on in Switzerland during the pre-Napoleonic War years than I suspected. Not that I ever gave it much thought, but it's amazing what a miserable Saturday afternoon's research will yield! Technically not the Regency Era which is 1811-1820 but the Georgian Era 1714–1830. Note the coincide in dates. I'm willing to forgo that because of the fascinating time of 1797.

So the adventures of Lady Cassandra and Vicomte Hunter Lamont have been moved to Bern.

4 Cup Review!

Coffee Time Romance recently reviewed Dark Desires of the Druids IV: Temptations and Treachery and gave it 4 Cups of Coffee! You can read the entire review here, but this is what Delane had to say:

Passion, jealousy, greed, power and many more corruptible feelings are all present in this story. The bottom line of the story is that ultimate power corrupts and the author explored the idea that maybe no one person should hold the knowledge of such power. The storyline moves very well and drew me into the plot right away. Worth reading for someone who loves the mythical world of magic.

Thank you, Delane!

Upcoming events

I've been lax in updating my blog lately, but I wanted to update where I'll be in the coming days.

Tonight: 6:00 pm-10:00 pm Paranormal/Fantasy Authors Chat LRMC http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LoveRomancesCafe/

I'll talk about my Druids series, a new idea for a contemporary paranormal, and world building in general. Along with my fellow Ravenous authors. Come join us!

Tomorrow I'll be over at a dear friend of mine's blog, Nicole McCaffrey, for her Friday Friends.

September's going to be a busy month blogging wise as well, so check back!

Kiss of Scandal, now available from Ravenous Romance.

In the wreckage of a friend’s death, Countess Katria Markova finds her perfectly ordered life, irrevocably altered. Russian politics proves more dangerous than the front lines of war, and when her fiancé’s future is threatened by rumors of treason, their cat-and-mouse game ends. In its place, a political game, where their very lives are at stake, begins.

Count Nikolai Orlov will do anything to clear his brother’s name. Anything except put Katria in harm’s way. Attracted to her from the moment they met, he’s spent their time together breaking the wall that surrounds her heart. He wants the passionate woman beneath, wants to shatter her cool exterior.

With her life in danger, Nikolai’s only course of action is to exact revenge. From the snowy streets of St. Petersburg to the River Neva’s icy depths, they search for the answers to clear Nikolai. But in their search, will they lose each other?

Scandalous Victorians

I'm over at Slip into Something Victorian today talking about some of my research for my Russian set story, Kiss of Scandal now available from Ravenous. Join me!

Kiss of Scandal

Released today from Ravenous Romance, my 1855 Russian set historical, Kiss of Scandal!

Blurb: In the wreckage of a friend's death, Countess Katria Markova finds her perfectly ordered life, irrevocably altered. Russian politics proves more dangerous than the front lines of war, and when her fiancé’s future is threatened by rumors of treason, their cat-and-mouse game ends. In its place, a political game, where their very lives are at stake, begins.

Count Nikolai Orlov will do anything to clear his brother’s name. Anything except put Katria in harm’s way. Attracted to her from the moment they met, he’s spent their time together breaking the wall that surrounds her heart. He wants the passionate woman beneath, wants to shatter her cool exterior.

With her life in danger, Nikolai’s only course of action is to exact revenge. From the snowy streets of St. Petersburg to the River Neva’s icy depths, they search for the answers to clear Nikolai. But in their search, will they lose each other?

Excerpt:

The fingers of her left hand twitched in her skirt, the only telltale sign she was anything other than completely composed.

He wanted to shatter that composure, watch her passion consume her. Needed to do so. Wanted to taste that passion, feel her around him as he took her. His own control close to breaking, he smiled wickedly at her. The blue-green of her eyes darkened, deepened. She took a step closer, the break in her pretense widening.

Katria wasn’t as immune to him as she pretended.

In two quick steps, he crossed the room and had her in his arms. Before she could react, he kissed her. Beneath him, she opened. Her mouth was hot on his, greedy. Taking all he doled out. A small mewl of pleasure vibrated along his lips.

With a growl, he deepened the kiss. Backing her to the wall, uncaring of the voluminous skirts she wore, Nikolai lifted her. Felt her sigh, her fingers in his hair.

Surrender was so close he could taste it in the sweetness of her kiss.

“Nikolai.”

Breathing hard, he pressed his forehead to hers. He wanted to have her now. Kissing down the delicious length of her neck, he knew another crack chipped open through the wall surrounding her.