A Cross-Genre Journey by Michelle Picard

AUTHOR MICHELLE PICARD
Ever since I was a young girl and my fifth grade teacher read the class Peter S. Beagle’s novel THE LAST UNICORN, I have been fascinated with all things magical, mysterious and otherworldly. I wrote my first tragic fantasy novella in middle school, recruiting art-minded friends to draw pictures of the fantastical universes I created.

Taking the road frequently traveled (not quite as romantic as the less traveled variety), and getting a BA in political science and a Masters in social work, I settled in New England. Along the way I collected a husband, two sons and two cats.

Finally, I grabbed the proverbial bull by its spiky protrusions and pursued my passion. I now write fantasy and urban fantasy, and admit to a fascination with gateways and portals, which seem to crop up in any story I write.

A CROSS-GENRE JOURNEY

Only after typing those titillating words, “The End” did I wonder if I might have a problem marketing my very first completed manuscript, RULING EDEN. I’d been reading a heck of a lot of urban fantasy when I started writing, and was in love with that first person kick-ass heroine voice, as well as long spanning series’ arcs. But I’d also been reading classic fantasy, with complex, slow-paced political machinations factoring into the plot. On top of that I loved romance and the relationship element in these books. Why pretend the romance subplot was anything but the most interesting, and was made that much more fascinating set within fantastical world building. I wanted it all. So I wrote it all--a first person, sarcastic earth-modern female point of view character, thrust into a unique, complex parallel realm, with loads of political intrigue, a series arc built into the story arc of the first book, a huge fantasy-typical cast of characters, and a romance plot that shared equal time with the fantasy plot. A fifty-fifty split. The book was long. Long like traditional fantasy is often long. Okay, not Lord of the Rings length, but long enough.

The next problem became how to market this. I made up my own category and called it “contemporary fantasy” because, really, there was no urban setting, but the mysterious realm of Eden’s Court is considered a part of modern earth, albeit a magical realm attached to it like some floating balloon tethered to a railing. I debated if this first book of my planned series had a happily ever after. I admit the initial ending did not have the hero and heroine together in a relationship by the final page. But I hated for all of those romance readers to turn their backs on a wonderful, sexy, exciting romance plot between my hero and heroine if I couldn’t pull out a happily ever after card. The hero was resisting a committed relationship, so I found a way to supply him with his cathartic moment leading him to embrace the heroine at the end of this book instead of pushing it off to the next installment. They hadn’t solved all their problems together as a couple, but enough to say they were together. I’d dare the wrath of romance readers the next book down the line where a less than perfect accord exists between the two, closer to a mid-series urban fantasy ending.

So here I sat with this unique novel, which, despite its large cast and complex micro and macro plots, had a pretty fast clipped plot, and didn’t know what direction to go with it. I was sure a market existed for the book, but I never felt completely comfortable when I pitched it to an editor or agent just as a romance fantasy or just as a fantasy. Not to mention it was too long for most everyone’s guidelines.

But even among the few years I’ve been writing for serious publication (I began in spring of 2005) cross-genre blends have taken off. I adore the sci-fi, futuristic romance blends and find even a wider variation of more substantial romance plots in the urban fantasies today. So, happily, after almost giving up on finding the right home for my longish romantic, contemporary, urban-like fantasy, I hit pay dirt. Crescent Moon Press. I pitched the manuscript at the New England Chapter Romance Writers of America conference last spring, assuming that if nothing came of the pitch this time I was done and the manuscript would be relegated to the cyber box under my bed to collect virtual dust bunnies. I’d gone on to write two other unrelated stories and would focus on those.

RULING EDEN finally found its happily ever after. The editor at Crescent Moon Press fell in love with my first baby and offered me a contract. I felt vindicated. All of the loving attention I’d put into this story over the years (I cut my critique group and writing craft teeth on this one) would result in a published novel. What did I take from this experience? The no brainer is to write the book of your heart and worry about finding it a home later. The second is that the launch and rapid propagation of e-publishers and their willingness to take risks on unique blends of stories has further whetted the reading public’s appetite for the same. I see more room even in traditional New York publishing for stories with blurred genre definitions. The progress is slow, but it exists. Of course this still leaves New York with marketing dilemmas. Paranormal romances and urban fantasies are commonly mislabeled in one direction or another, disappointing fans that are loyal to a particular genre.

To find out what my own cross-genre blend is like, please check out my novel, RULING EDEN at Crescent Moon Press

Most importantly, I’d love to hear about your personal take on cross-genre stories and about any of your sagas on the path to publication of one of these sweethearts. 

website:  http://www.michellepicard.com

blog:        http://www.michellepicardsblog.wordpress.com
Buy now URL: http://crescentmoonpress.com/books/RulingEden.html

A Child's Introduction to Tea by Michele Pollard Patrick

Item# ISBN: 0-8059-4479-6

$12.00

Buy Now

I love this little book!

Turning the pages and viewing the simple illustrations brought back so many memories of my own tea parties as a child, and those I used to have with my daughter and granddaughters.

This much-forgotten social pastime, as presented through the pages of 'A Child's Introduction to Tea by Michele Pollard Patrick', is so enjoyable that once sampled, I'm afraid you'll become addicted. That stands true for both children and adults.

A tea party is the perfect venue for deepening friendships, inducing giggles from little girls, and improving the social graces of those little gentlemen-in-the-rough.

And as a practical note, after reading 'A Child's Introduction to Tea', you'll finally know what to call all those fancy implements setting on a well-laid tea table.

I received a complimentary copy of A Child's Introduction to Tea as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit dorrancebookstore.com to learn how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.

Who's Who - Sandra Kay

Who I am:  Like most of you, I am many things.  And, I am different things to different people.  I am a wife of 37 years to my wonderful husband, Bob.  I am a mother of 2 daughters and a stepson.  I am a grandmother to 7--a girl and 6 boys.  And most recently, I am a great-grandma to Dimitry, a beautiful little boy.  In addition, I am a published author with The Wild Rose Press.

What I like:  Family gatherings; friends; most foods; church; travel; reality TV (Love Dancing With The Stars and So You Think You Can Dance); singing (Can't carry a tune!); reading; and writing

What I Don't Like:  Sushi (Although, I'll admit to not having tasted it!); rudeness; deceit; arrogance

Where is Home / or / Where I'd like to Call Home:  Home is Anaheim Hills in Southern California.  I like it here, so can't think of anywhere else I'd want to call home.  A little less traffic would be nice, though! 

What is my passion, hobbies, occupation, etc.:  My family always comes first on my list of passions.  Then, of course, my writing.  My hobby is word games of any kind; crosswords, scrabble, etc.  My "addiction" at the present time is Hatchlings on Facebook.  I know--a complete waste of time!!  I am a retired office manager of a large insurance company.
 
If I could run a charity, it would be for:  Abused and abandoned children

If I could change one thing about the world I live in, it would be:  Less hatred and inhumanity!

For our blog readers, answer this if you can:

What is it with the phenomenon that causes problems to hit you all at one time? 

I mean, really, one problem a year would be plenty.  I just don't understand this strange phenomenon of everything piling on you at once, but it seems to happen to everyone at one time or another.   

For me, 2009 has been a very stressful year.  It's been one thing after another; from illness in the family to financial fears in the shrinking economy.  That fear has come true for so many people.  I personally know of six men, who have lost their jobs due to cutbacks.  Scary times!

The illness I spoke of is scary, too.  My daughter has been diagnosed with Chiari Malformation, and Trigeminal Neuralgia as secondary.  I don't know about you, but I'd never heard of either one of these conditions before.  Chiari Malformation is a rare, normally congenital, condition where the skull is too small for the brain.  The "tonsils" that extend from the bottom of the brain are forced down into the spinal column.  Some people can have it without ever experiencing symptoms.  Trigeminal Neuralgia, known to be the "most painful affliction known to man," is caused by pressure on the trigeminal nerve that comes directly from the brain stem.  I'm trying to get her insurance company to approve a referral to the Mayo Clinic in Arizona for treatment.  Not an easy task! 

The other issues are things I really can't do anything about, although I'd like to.  I feel like I'm the hub, and all these problems are spinning around me like spokes on a wheel.  I don't want to be the hub anymore!  lol  I know the Lord doesn't give us more than we can handle, but I hope He knows when I've had enough!  :) 

Unfortunately, my writing schedule has suffered because of the stresses.  It's just hard to write a romantic scene when your mind is on a dozen other things.  But, you know, 2010 is closing in, so I just keep reminding myself that "next year will be better."  It's got to be!

What are your thoughts? 
 
10. Tag someone who you'd like to see in the Who's Who Spot.  Beth Trissel

 
http://www.sandrakayauthor.com
http://www.sandrakayauthor.blogspot.com
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/heart-of-stone-p-983.html

Susan Palmquist Interviews Susan Vaughan

If you’re a fan of Silhouette Intimate Moments and/or romantic suspense, this month’s author probably needs no introduction. It’s Susan Vaughan who decided early in her career to merge together her two favorite genres, romance and mystery. Last year The Wild Rose Press released her first full length romantic suspense novel called Primal Obsession. It won the More Than Magic contest in the romantic suspense category. And The Romance Studio called it an ‘intensely romantic thriller…a great read’. In this interview she shares insights about herself, her writing and what it takes to create edge of your seat romantic suspense. You can find out more about Susan at her Web site www.susanvaughan.com her blog at http://plotsandthoughts.blogspot.com

 Susan Palmquist (SP)-You suffered from occasional bouts of insomnia and you’d write down notes for your books. It’s something I’ve heard lots of writers say they do and many keep notebooks by their beds, even by the shower. Do you still wake up and make notes about characters and plot lines?

Susan Vaughan (SV)-First, let me thank you for interviewing me. You’ve asked some intriguing questions. As for making notes in the middle of the night, I do and it’s usually some breakthrough on a problem scene. I’ve read that if you pose whatever writing question you have before you go to sleep, your brain will work on it while you sleep. Sometimes that happens and I have an answer by morning. But these days, I can’t wake up my husband to scribble on a pad. I have a pad that lights the page whenever I pull out the attached pen, but even that wakes him up. I suppose I should be glad he’s alert in case of an emergency. So these days I take my lighted pad to the bathroom and scribble away there, where the little light won’t bother him. On the nights I can’t go to sleep, the pad won’t do it, so I trundle down to my office and fire up the computer.

SP-Your first attempt at writing was a gothic mystery. Did you grow up reading those books and how did that come about?

SV-Love those gothics. My mother loved mysteries and once I’d read all the Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden stories, I graduated to the mysteries she read. Once I discovered Mary Stewart’s and Phyllis Whitney’s gothics, I was hooked and wanted to write my own.

SP-Why did you choose to write romantic suspense? And what do you like most about writing it?

SV-Romantic suspense is the marriage of my two favorite genres, mystery and romance. What’s not to love? I enjoy the intricate plotting and tension of the suspense aspect and the dangerous situation that throws the hero and heroine together. Interweaving that with the internal conflicts the characters have to work through is the kind of challenge I relish. And it’s different with every book. I have the best job!

SP-You’re a world traveler. You attended the Sorbonne, saw Europe on the back of a motorcycle, sailed in the Caribbean…any of these sites or trips find their way into your books. Maybe an experience set off an idea for a book?

SV-I’ve definitely used my travel in my books and am planning to do more of both. The Caribbean found its way into Breaking All the Rules. Of course I still had a lot of research to do for that, as for any book, but I had the experience of the feel and smell and warmth of the sea and the location. My first trip to the Mayan Riviera part of Mexico was research for a book that’s not yet published. My fascination with the Maya led to a plot and characters but I needed the jungle experience and to see the ruins. I was even allowed to visit a Mayan village where the people still live in thatched huts and cook on open fires. Keep your fingers crossed my agent sells that book soon.

SP-You now live on the coast of Maine and used it as the setting for Primal Obsession. Any more plans to use Maine as your setting?

SV-Two of my Silhouette Intimate Moments books were set in Maine before I widened my horizons. I’ve finished another, shorter book set on a peninsula rather like the one where I live. That one, too, is awaiting publication. I’m in the middle of a story with a Maine connection but it’s set in several places in the U.S. as well as Maine.

SP-You have five Silhouette Intimate Moment books under your belt. Any plans to write for what’s now Silhouette Romantic Suspense?

SV-SRS and I have parted ways. The line has dropped from 80,000 words to 60,000, way shorter than the stories I have to tell. What I want to write and what they require just don’t mesh anymore.

SP-How does writing category romance compare to say writing Primal Obsession?

SV-Because of the short length, category romance has to be much leaner, with maybe only one subplot and sometimes none, only the central romance, which has to move quickly. In a full-length novel, such as Primal Obsession, I have room to go more in depth with the characters and to have other subplots that feed into the central plot. I have time to let the romance develop at a more normal pace and to build the tension and the relationship as well as the conflicts. I enjoy being able to have more points of view than the protagonists and maybe the villain. In Primal Obsession, for instance, the heroine’s brother and some of the other characters have their own scenes and plot trajectories.

SP-Tell us more about your WIP, Ring of Truth?

SV-Here’s the blurb I wrote for my query letter. “A former jewel thief’s only chance for redemption is to convince a sexy security agent with her own agenda to join in beating an international gang to a cache of legendary jewels.” The hero is the son of a jewel thief who sucked him into his last job and whose death has left the hero with the burden of FBI harassment. His only way to a normal life is to find and return the stolen jewels. He needs the help of the daughter of the insurance investigator who died failing to retrieve the jewels, but an international smuggling organization is their competition for the jewels. I’m having great fun with this story.

SP-What do you think makes a great romantic suspense novel?

SV-Great question! And hard to answer, because there are so many kinds of suspense novels. There are ones that are heavy on police procedure and have dark, gritty themes, such as the books written by Karen Rose, Lisa Gardner, and Kylie Brant. There are sexy ones with more of an adventurous tone, such as those written by Roxanne St. Claire and Karen Robards. Karen Robards can also write gritty and humorous, one of the reasons I love her books. What makes a romantic suspense novel great is, I believe, what makes a romance great—powerful, personal conflict, both internal and external. The authors I’ve named all provide that. I don’t mean to slight other romantic suspense novelists. If I named all the excellent ones, I’d have to make an alphabetized list.

SP-You’ve won many accolades and awards for your books. Any tips you can offer about penning the perfect romantic suspense novel.

SV-I wish! Thank you for the compliment. I just named above one of the ingredients in an RS novel—powerful, personal conflict and a strong external conflict, or plot. The internal conflicts of the hero and heroine need to be interwoven with the external conflict so the romantic conflict and development are inextricably tied to the plot events. Otherwise you have two parallel stories, not a true romantic suspense. The external plot, the suspense plot, should have personal meaning to the hero and/or heroine, so it too has emotional resonance. The characters’ motivations need to be deeply emotional and personal to make the goal and conflict strong enough to draw a reader in and keep her turning the pages. And of course, suspense. The tension must rise, the stakes must escalate, and the danger must be personal. Lastly, you need a satisfying ending, with all threads neatly tied up. It’s a lot to juggle, which is why it’s so difficult to write a good, let alone great, romantic suspense novel. Whew, I’m exhausted thinking about it. LOL.

SP-Looks like you attend lots of writer’s conferences and events like CSI training. Any resources you always use when you’re writing?

SV-My fave writing craft books are the following: Creating Character Emotions by Ann Hood; GMC: Goal, Motivation & Conflict by Debra Dixon; and Roget’s Super Thesaurus. Resources I use for the action parts of my books vary from book to book. I’ve used the SAS Survival Handbook by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman, You Got Nothing Coming by Bill Mason, a master jewel thief, and The Anatomy of Motive by John Douglas.

SP-What romantic suspense authors do you like to read and why?

SV- I’ve just named some of them above. I love the way Karen Rose writes police procedure without overloading the reader with detail. She also writes strong emotion, nail-biting tension, and a great romance. Lisa Gardner is the master of strong emotional writing with a gritty plot. Karen Robards imbues her tense suspense with humor and sexy romance. I always love Kylie Brant’s category books for Silhouette and adore her new full-length RS series for the deep psychological drama and strong romance. Rocki St. Claire’s books are more what I hope my books are like—sexy romance and adventure but not police procedure. As you see, I enjoy a variety of styles, but what they all have in common is excellent writing.

SP-Feel free to share anything else with both readers and writers

SV-For readers, I’d like to offer the suggestion to read widely. I don’t read just romantic suspense. I read mysteries, best-sellers, nonfiction, and it makes my life and my writing richer. For aspiring writers, I advise you to learn your craft and never stop learning, to finish the book and then write another book, and not to give up.

Susan Palmquist is a freelance writer and author. Her fourth novel, Sleeping With Fairies will be published by Lyrical Press on December 21^st. Find out more about Susan and her work at www.susanpalmquist.com

Who's Who - Shelley Dayton

1. Who I am: Shelley Dayton. Mystery writer. Curious, funny,
and a wee bit macabre.
2. What I like: Gentleness. Thick canopies of eucalyptus and
redwood trees. An abundance of spare time. Pickles.
3. What I Don't Like: Disharmony. Dishonesty. Ants, aphids,
and skunks.
4. Where is Home / or / Where I'd like to Call Home: Home is
where my family is! Here in sorta sunny California.
5. What is my passion, hobbies, occupation, etc.: There’s
nothing more relaxing than crocheting a simple baby blanket.
This has two benefits: one, it is very calming. Two, the
blankets can then be donated to Project Linus for needy or
ill children. Win-win!
6. If I could run a charity, it would be for: Destitute
children. Have you ever seen footage of children who have to
dig through dumps to find things to sell? Cutting their
feet, getting infections. It’s heartbreaking.
7. If I could change one thing about the world I live in, it
would be: A complete end to lying and deception. Remember
Liar Liar with Jim Carey? Like that, across the world. There
would be total meltdown for a while, but we'd adjust.
8. For our blog readers, answer this if you can: What do you think will be the power source of the future?
9. Tag someone who you'd like to see in the Who's Who Spot.
Dana Mentink, you’re it!

Shelley Dayton

Off the clock, into the jungle!
Learn why Vicky, Rita, and Lynette yearn for the 'burbs.
Why Rita Hates Monkeys is available now at
www.eternalpress.ca!
Visit me at www.shelleydayton.com

Five Steps For Dealing With Writer's Block by Dana Rongione

There is nothing as intimidating as the blinking cursor on a blank page. It is incessant, demanding that you type something. . . anything. Yet, no matter how often it blinks, the words just won't come. The story is there. Your thoughts are in order, but the delivery is elusive. And so, the cursor blinks on.

Writer's block, despite what many say, is not just a frame of mind or an excuse to avoid writing. It is a plague that infects writers of all age, race, and stature. While there are no "cures" for writer's block, here are a few ideas that may help to release the flow of words.


Copy something - Sometimes just seeing words on the page will spark the muse. Take a few minutes to copy (by hand) or type definitions from the dictionary, an excerpt from the latest book you're reading, Bible verses, etc. It doesn't matter what you copy. Just get your mind and fingers engaged in the process. Pretty soon, you'll discover that you have some words of your own to contribute.


Keep a journal - Journaling is an excellent way to express your emotions, record your thoughts, keep track of writing ideas, or whatever else you can think of. Journaling is your private writing. You don't have to worry about spelling, grammar, or format. It is a time where you can simply allow your thoughts to run freely. Doing this daily helps keep you in the frame of mind for writing, plus it is an excellent stress reliever.


Talk about what you're writing - Whether it's to a friend or a family member, talking about your writing can often spark new ideas or angles that you hadn't thought of previously. If no one is around during your "hour of need," log on to some writing forums or chat rooms. Not only will you be likely to come up with some new thoughts, but some of the people you're talking with may have some interesting contributions as well.


Do writing prompts and exercises - When you're completely stuck on a project, sometimes the best thing to do is to walk away from it and write something else. Writing prompts are great. They set up a scene or situation, and then leave you to your writing. Sometimes the prompt will offer suggestions that you can use in your current project, but if not, it will still get your writing juices flowing, allowing you to soar over the bump of writer's block. Many writing websites offer free prompts and exercises.


Read - Have you ever been reading something completely unrelated to your writing when - BAM! -- a great concept came to you? That happens to me a lot. Somehow, getting my mind off of my writing allows my thoughts to become more clear and productive. It's strange, I know, but it works. When you're in the dark abyss of writer's block, turn to your favorite book and read for a while. Either you'll come up with something new, or you will have calmed yourself enough that the blinking cursor is no longer the terrifying monster it was thirty minutes ago.


There will be times when the words just won't come. Don't panic. Take some time to walk away. Do some stretches. Take a few deep breaths. Then, try some of the advice above. Whatever you do, don't give up! The words are there within you. It may just take a little time to get them out.

Bio:  Dana Rongione is a full-time Christian freelance writer and writing coach living in Greenville, SC.  Her work can be found in various online and offline magazines such as Devozine, Giggles and Grace, and Teachers of Vision.  Her devotional book, The Deadly Darts of the Devil, is currently available at Amazon.com.   Her blog, A Word Fitly Spoken, offers encouragement to Christians through inspirational stories and zany anecdotes while her blog, Learn Write Now, offers advice and instruction to writers everywhere.
 

It Happened One Night by Lisa Dale

It Happened One Night by Lisa Dale  

Lana Biel longs to leave her family’s Vermont wildflower farm so she can travel and see the world. And her sister Karin wants nothing more than to put down roots and conceive the child she and her husband just can’t seem to have. When a lighthearted fling with a mountain biker leaves Lana expecting, she finds herself tumbling headlong into motherhood while her sister Karin can only look on. 

For help, Lana turns to Eli Ward, a professional meteorite hunter and her best friend for the last ten years. But Eli’s keeping secrets that could turn their friendship on its head. As the Vermont seasons change and the flowers in the wildflower meadows begin to fade, Lana must make some meaningful decisions about her family, her friendships, her love life, and her dreams

My Thoughts

Complicated family relationships entangled with an even more complicated love interest kept me reading to see how Lana would resolve her mostly self-imposed problems.  This book is definitely character driven, and while romance is not the focal issue, it’s an important part of the whole.

While beta males are not my favorite, Eli proves his manly worth by his unswerving devotion to Lana.  Lana, on the other hand, sometimes infuriated me with her torturous treatment of Eli. I must confess that I didn’t like Lana’s character much in the beginning, but as the author drew me through this story with skill and feeling, I began to understand the reasons for Lana’s character. In the end, I still wanted to choke her, but more out of concern than dislike.

Added to this mix is the strong supporting cast of other characters that make this a strong family drama. I wouldn’t consider this a light read. It will give you plenty of points for reflection.

Favorite Quote

He let his hand fall, the ring along with it, and he leaned forward to kiss her shoulder. “You don’t have to tell me yes or no.”

“You mean, ever?”

“For as long as you love me, the invitation stands.”

Between the Pages Review

Rating: 3.5/5

* I thank Hatchett Book Group for providing me with this review copy.

The New Hoover Dam Bypass Photos

The New Hoover Dam Bypass Will Make You Ooooh and Aaaah!

Enthusiasm by Jane Toombs

Title: ENTHUSIASM    Jane Toombs


Have you ever considered how important enthusiasm is for authors? I hadn’t, just assumed it was something we all had for writing our stories. For starts, let me tell you I’ve always been considered a midlist author and have never had a problem with that.

For years I went happily along my way, starting out with the old type a-kiss-or-two gothics, writing for different NY publishers, my agent finding them for me. I approached writing each new book eagerly. Of course this didn’t last. Fads in books come and go. Gothic went down the tubes and historical romances climbed. I had to switch genres. When I did, I found no publisher was happy with a lot of paranormal in such books. Unfortunately I’ve always been drawn to that genre, but now I began encountering editors who were following publisher guidelines. A touch of paranormal was allowed, but not a lot. All these editors were capable, but adhered to their particular publisher’s view of what sells and what doesn’t, which meant I had to.

I’ve never regarded editors as enemies, but as helpers who wanted my books to be as perfect as possible. We had the same goal in mind. But at many publishers the editors also had to consider their publishers’ views on what readers want. Sure, they still helped me, but they worked for the publisher, not me. I understood this and tried to acquiesce. But it grew more and more difficult. Certain romances could not contain as much as a hint of paranormal. So I had to rewrite, eliminating any possible paranormal reference.

This my sound odd to those writing and reading today, but for some lines, it’s still that way. Since this was an era before paranormal romances became popular, I had little choice. When I found no one cared if I wrote paranormal elements into suspense, I once again was happy. Plus I did a bit of horror. But that’s not really what I wanted to write because I always want to put at least a hint of an HEA, so, essentially, I had to tailor what I wanted to write. Gradually, over the years, book by book, my enthusiasm eroded away.

I found, though, that if I wasn’t writing I made everyone around me miserable. Then I discovered the epublishers What a difference! I could put whatever I wanted to in my stories and no editor complained. Plus the editors were as good at NY ones at finding weak spots in mss, and were death on typos. Best of all—I could do everything that had to be done online, How convenient. My enthusiasm returned in force. No, I’m not making as much money, but I am making some. To me, the important thing is being happy while I’m writing.

One of my epubs is Crescent Moon Press , where I have my UNDERWORLD SERIES. This is not Satan’s realm, but a strange, uncanny land. My first novella, “Unwise” is available now and the second, “Unwanted,” will be up soon. Fantasy, of course, and paranormal. Yay!

The Birth of a Hummingbird. 24 days from birth to flight...
http://ping.fm/1V1sE

To Desire A Devil by Elizabeth Hoyt

           Blurb: Reynaud St. Aubyn has spent the last seven years in hellish captivity. Now half mad with fever he bursts into his ancestral home and demands his due. Can this wild-looking man truly be the last earl's heir, thought murdered by Indians years ago?

Beatrice Corning, the niece of the present earl, is a proper English miss. But she has a secret: No real man has ever excited her more than the handsome youth in the portrait in her uncle's home. Suddenly, that very man is here, in the flesh-and luring her into his bed.

Only Beatrice can see past Reynaud's savagery to the noble man inside. For his part, Reynaud is drawn to this lovely lady, even as he is suspicious of her loyalty to her uncle. But can Beatrice's love tame a man who will stop at nothing to regain his title-even if it means sacrificing her innocence?

My Summary:

When a wild looking man staggers into Beatrice’s boring political tea party, then collapses at her feet, it sets her life into a tailspin. Could this savage, dangerous, and hateful stranger be the same man whose portrait she’d mooned over for years?

At the age of twenty-four, Beatrice has given up hope of finding the one man in London Society who can love her for herself, see the woman she is inside, and who will love her as passionately as she desires to be loved.

Reynaud St. Aubyn, Viscount Hope, returns to his London home a shattered, war-ravaged, and hardened man. He wants only one thing, to regain his home and his title; and that doesn’t include pleasing London society or the interfering Beatrice Corning.

My Thoughts:

What an infuriating and totally desirable hero Elizabeth Hoyt has created in Reynaud St. Aubyn. I must confess that alpha males are my favorites, and Reynaud did not disappoint. He’s a tortured soul that draws Beatrice like a moth to the flame. A spirited heroine, she may be, but no match for Reynaud when he determines that she belongs to him.

A Favorite Quote:

“You asked me if I loved you, I do. I love you more than life itself. Nothing matters in this world but that you live. Can you do that for me? Can you live?”

Thands to Hatchett Books for providing me with a copy of this book for review!

Steve Jobs: 7 Lessons from a Marketing Genius By Carmine Gallo

Steve Jobs: 7 Lessons from a Marketing Genius
By Carmine Gallo,

Author of The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs: How to Be Insanely Great in Front of Any Audience

Apple CEO Steve Jobs is considered one of the greatest marketers in corporate history. For more than three decades, he has delivered legendary keynote presentations, raised product launches to an art form and successfully communicated the benefits of Apple products to millions of customers. Whether you're in sales, marketing, advertising or public relations, Steve Jobs has something to teach you about telling your brand story.
Plan in analog. Steve Jobs may have made a name for himself in the digital world, but he prepares presentations in the old world of pen and paper. He brainstorms, sketches and draws on whiteboards. Before a new iPhone, iPod or MacBook is introduced, the Apple team decides on the exact messages (aka, benefits) to communicate. Those messages are consistent across all marketing platforms: presentations, Web sites, advertisements, press releases, and even the banners than are unfurled after Jobs' keynote.
Create Twitter-friendly headlines. Can you describe your product or service in 140 characters? Steve Jobs offers a headline, or description, for every product. Each headline can easily fit in a Twitter post. For example, when he introduced the MacBook Air in January, 2008, he said that it is simply, "The world's thinnest notebook." You could visit the Apple Web site for more information, but if that's all you knew, it would tell you a lot. If your product description cannot fit in a Twitter post, keep refining.
Introduce the antagonist. In every classic story, the hero fights the villain. The same holds true for a Steve Jobs presentation. In 1984, the villain was IBM, "Big Blue." Before he introduced the famous 1984 ad to a group of Apple salespeople, he created a dramatic story around it. "IBM wants it all," he said. Apple would be the only company to stand in its way. It was very dramatic and the crowd went nuts. Branding expert, Martin Lindstrom, has said that great brands and religions have something in common: the idea of vanquishing a shared enemy. Creating a villain allows the audience to rally around the hero -- you, your ideas and your product.