An Honourable Rogue

Carol Townend/ An Honourable Rogue/ Harlequin Historical/ 13-978-0-373-30538-4/ paperback /Wessex Weddings

Rozenn is a widow and as such she has her own home and freedom, but she is ambitious. When the countess tries to insist that she return to live under her care at the castle, Rose, as she was born, makes up her mind to travel to England and marry a knight. Her brother has sent word and she is keen for the match, despite something in her heart that draws her to the minstrel Ben. Ben is a careless, charming rogue and Rose is determined to resist him, even though as they journey to England she becomes more and more attracted to him. She begins to suspect that Ben is more than he seems, but what is he hiding from her? What will happen when Rose finally realises that Sir Richard never asked for her?

This is a charming medieval romp and thoroughly enjoyable. The taste and flavour of the period is there to help the story become absorbing, and the characters are likeable. I enjoyed this book and give it 4.5 red roses. Anne

Wicked Pleasures

Tambra Kenddall/Wicked Pleasures/Red Rose Publishing/ebook/30 pages

Honey Jordan was angry with Brock Ryan, because he hadn't finished their house and they couldn't marry until it was ready. And Honey has to leave her home because her father is bringing home a new bride! Honey's late grandmother has promised her treasure when she marries, but it might turn out to be something other than she thoughts!

A fun sexy read! I give this story 4 red roses, Morna

36 Exposures

Linda Mooney/36 Exposures/Amazon shorts/35pages

Jolee almost falls when stepping on a film cannister. She picks it up and slips it into her pocket. After a presentation, which did not go well, she decides to have the film developed in the hope of discovering who it belongs to. She is in for a big surprise!

This is an enjoyable fun story where dreams come true! 4 red roses, Morna

Her Smile

Raven Starr/Her Smile/ Red Rose Publishing/ebook/75pages
Mark is sitting in a bar feeling alone and dissatisfied with his life when he sees Kylie. Her smile immediately attracts and he asks her to go for a walk with him. Kylie's ability to see beauty in everything and her pleasure in walking barefoot make Mark forget his sterile life as a rock star. When Kylie leaves without saying goodbye, Mark has to make changes before he can truly begin to live.

This is an enjoyable book, well written and romantic. I give this tender love story 4.5 red roses, Morna

Edmund Bertram's Diary

Amanda Grange/Edmund Bertram's Diary/ Robert Hale
ISBN978-0-7090-8464-8 £18.99/ 222 pages

The retelling of one of Jane Austen's classic stories in diary form sees Edmund Bertram telling his story as never before. At the beginning we explore the relationship between Edmund and Tom in a new light, and the arrival of Fanny at Mansfield Park is an event of very little importance in a young man's life. Edmund is more concerned with his future; the necessity of deciding upon a career occupies his thoughts far more than the new arrival. However, his careless kindness at the beginning gradually becomes something more as we watch the friendship develop and then see Edmund struggle with first love. We experience his pain and disappointment when he realises that the women he believes he loves has feet of clay, and we see his thoughts as he slowly comes to the realisation that he truly loves Fanny.

Grange captures the flavour and period extremely well, giving those of us who cannot get enough of this type of novel a story that is both cleverly told and enjoyable. Some readers who might not venture into the original novels will find this easier to read and perhaps be tempted to read Austen as well as watch the films. Altogether a delightful piece of work! Five red roses, Linda

Wind Song

Rita Karnopp/Wind Song/Eternal Press/276 pages/ebook

Leota is called the Woman of the People. She listens to the voices of the spirits, the ancestors of her People, and she tries to warn the chiefs against making a treaty with the White Man. However, it is a white man who helps her when she has been attacked by her enemies, and against her better judgement, Leota is drawn to the man Marsh. In allowing herself to care for him, Leota risks being denied by her People. Even though Marsh and his nephew Tanner help the Blackfoot tribe to which Leota belongs, they are not at first truly accepted. After many trials and some tragedy, the three set out for the white man's territory. Leota is determined to learn the ways of the white man and teach her people, but they are strange to her and her love for Spirit Dancer, as Marsh has been named, is almost destroyed before they reach a peaceful place.

This is the story of the way the native American Indian was betrayed by the white man and their own love of cheap whiskey. It is sad to know that a proud, spiritual race was brought low by the neglect and broken promises of people who had given their word. Karnopp writes with sensitivity and hope and a real understanding of what happened. Some of her writing is lyrical in its beauty and it touches the soul. I loved this book and give it five red roses. Anne

A Rational Romance

A Rational Romance by Melinda Hammond

Robert Hale Publishers

224 Pages

December 2007

978-0709084488

4.5 Stars



Melinda Hammond’s latest Regency, A Rational Romance, is superb storytelling at its absolute best! Rich in period detail, intrigue and romance, it’s the perfect book to curl up with on a cold winter’s night!



In 1803, the seventh marquis of Ullenwood, Elliot Malvern is one of the most eligible men in society. He’s rich, extremely good looking and a card player with Lady luck on his side. However, not even Elliot could foresee winning a lady’s hand during a game of cards!



After the death of her parents, Miss Rosamond Beaumarsh had been living with her grandfather and acting as his housekeeper whilst he squandered every single penny on booze and gambling. Now, that he is dead, she is determined to make it on her own and become an independent woman, but Elliot is determined to take responsibility of his new ward and proposes a marriage of convenience.



Rosamond has sworn never to marry. And besides, the Marquis could never find a plain girl like her attractive especially when he has a gorgeous mistress to satisfy his every need.



But Rosamond hasn’t counted on falling in love with her marquis. But does he feel the same?



A Rational Romance is one of the year’s best historical romances! Melinda Hammond is an outstanding writer of romantic fiction who touches the heart and recreates history meticulously.



*

Valerie

Valerie by Joan Smith

Robert Hale Publishers

224 Pages

December 2007

9780709079224

4.5 Stars



If you like Regency romances, you’ll love Joan Smith’s Valerie! Witty, romantic and wonderfully written, this is one historical romance that deserves a place on your keeper shelf!

Valerie is delighted when her Aunt Loo asks her to accompany her to spend a few weeks at her estate called Troy Fenners. But little does Valerie know that her brief sojourn in the country is going to be anything but peaceful – especially when Valerie finds out that her Aunt Loo is a Gothic romance novelist who wants to cast her as the heroine of her next book!

Before long, Valerie finds herself vaulting over stiles on horseback, scaling walls and climbing up trees and ladders all in the name of research! But that’s nothing compared to having to take part in seances and ghost hunting!



Valerie begins to wonder just what she has let herself into and the mystery deepens when her distant cousins Welland and Pierre Sinclair arrive! Why is Pierre blackmailing her aunt for a thousand pounds? And what about Welland? Is he a man to be trusted?



If you haven’t read Joan Smith’s wonderful Regency romances, then you are missing out on a marvellous treat! Written in the first person, Valerie is a cross between Georgette Heyer’s wonderful Regencies and Victoria Holt’s chilling Gothics and once you start reading it, you will not want to put it down.

*

Edmund Bertram's Diary

Amanda Grange/Edmund Bertram's Diary/ Robert Hale
ISBN978-0-7090-8464-8 £18.99/ 222 pages

The retelling of one of Jane Austen's classic stories in diary form sees Edmund Bertram telling his story as never before. At the beginning we explore the relationship between Edmund and Tom in a new light, and the arrival of Fanny at Mansfield Park is an event of very little importance in a young man's life. Edmund is more concerned with his future; the necessity of deciding upon a career occupies his thoughts far more than the new arrival. However, his careless kindness at the beginning gradually becomes something more as we watch the friendship develop and then see Edmund struggle with first love. We experience his pain and disappointment when he realises that the women he believes he loves has feet of clay, and we see his thoughts as he slowly comes to the realisation that he truly loves Fanny.

Grange captures the flavour and period extremely well, giving those of us who cannot get enough of this type of novel a story that is both cleverly told and enjoyable. Some readers who might not venture into the original novels will find this easier to read and perhaps be tempted to read Austen as well as watch the films. Altogether a delightful piece of work! Five red roses, Linda

Courting Lord Dorney

Courting Lord Dorney
By
MARINA OLIVER. Hale Books.

ISBN978-0-7090-8422-8.



For those of us who love the Regency Era this book is a pure pleasure to read. The flavour is true Regency, the story line shows a little of the darker side of those times but not enough to upset or disgust us just enough to make a good story with some twists included.
Rosabella Traherne is the main character; she has been left a fortune by her wealthy Nabob uncle. Bella has many ideas for the use of her fortune and not included in them, is to marry a fortune hunter and leave her fortune in her husbands hands as would have been expected in Regency times. She is a very forward thinking young lady who wishes to help the many underprivileged children, especially in her beloved fells area where she was brought up, even stray dogs find a place in her heart.
Bella was disgusted with the young men she had met in Harrogate, she knew they were all fortune hunters who would not have given her a second look had she not possessed a large fortune. She is determined to try to find someone who would love her for herself even if she had little or no money. To this end she persuades her cousin Jane, Lady Hodder, whose husband is away, to accompany her to Bath where she intended to be plain Miss Collins.
Lord Dorney shies away from young ladies with fortunes and all match making Mamas. His brother had a disastrous marriage to an heiress and Lord Dorney has no plans to follow his mistake, in fact he keeps clear of most young ladies when ever possible. That is until he meets Miss Collins in Bath and witnesses some of her unusual behaviour when she encounters any form of cruelty taking place.
Obviously of gentile birth she intrigues him and he intentionally develops her acquaintance becoming very attentive, making the gossiping ladies of Bath predict a romance. Unfortunately a very undesirable young man recognises Bella, as he had met her in Harrogate. He makes himself very disagreeable and threatens to expose her unless she agrees to ………….?
This author is new to me, although very well known, but I shall certainly be reading many more of her Regency Romances.
Do read this delightful book and find out all of the twists and turns it is full of, I really enjoyed it and I am happy to award this book 5 red roses. AS

Christmas Awards Results

It is with great pleasure that Red Roses For Authors/Reviews announces the results of its Christmas Awards.

The winner of the short story/novella is SLOANE TAYLOR FOR FRENCH TART


The winner of the main award is DESIREE HOLT FOR CUPID'S SHAFT


Many congratulations to the winners!

The lucky voter was Barbara Scott.
Red Roses For authors will be in touch with the winners soon.

Halo In Her Pocket

Halo in her Pocket by Morgan Q. O’ReillyDark Eden Press/Ebook





Set against the backdrop of Anchorage, Alaska during the long summer days.



Devyn breaks up with her boyfriend after she catches him cheating on her. Ginger, Devyn’s best friend has decided to take it upon herself to get Devyn back in the game. They have been invited to a party that will be the first step of Devyn coming back from her unfaithful boyfriend. There are going to be a couple of t-shirt contests so they make a last minute stop at a store to get some fun shirts for the party. After trying on a shirt Devyn leaves the dressing room to literally falls into the arms of a very sexy man.



Shane can’t believe his luck when this beautiful woman falls into his arms. They start talking and soon realize that they are all going to the same party. Ginger sees an opportunity to play matchmaker and takes it. Soon Devyn finds herself heading to the party alone with Shane. Sparks are really flying between these two as they talk and get to know each other.



Loosing her self-esteem due to her last boyfriend she wants to be sure. Before arriving at the party Devyn wants to get a few issues out in the open. Devyn is afraid that she is being set up with Shane either by Ginger or as a joke. Shane tells her this is no set up but very real. She warns him that her last two boyfriends will be there and there might be some problems. They decide to just go and have fun.





The chemistry between these two is so hot I don’t think there will be any snow in Alaska this winter. This is a great book with a lot of laughs that just keep coming. It is a perfect blend of hot, sizzling romance and comedy.





I give this one 5 red roses.

A Bribe Against The Innocent

MC Halliday/ A Bribe Against The Innocent/ Dark Eden Press/ebook/155pages

Inspector Octavia Cambridge is ordered to investigate two unusual murders, which happened several years apart. Octavia has a hard time keeping her mind on the job while the gorgeous DCS Richmond is with her, but once on the way to Devon with her sergeant her thoughts settle to the task ahead. However, Richmond joins her on the case and proves to be good at his work. She visits the obnoxious Robert Norwood, who denies all knowledge of either murder and promptly blackmails his brother Graham. What isn't Octavia being told and can she trust her instincts? Abuse, pain and despair lie at the heart of the mystery, which is multi-threaded. Can Octavia unravel this complicated case and solve these dark crimes?

This is a strong story with a good mystery, interesting characters and a believable plot. At the end it is left open for more stories to come and the relationship between Richmond and Cambridge to develop. I look forward to reading more from this author. Five red roses, Anne

The Other Half of Your Heart

Janis Susan May
The Other Half of Your Heart

Red Rose Publishing

ISBN: 978-1-60435-003-2

Romantic Suspense

113 Pages

$4.99

4 red roses



If you like your romances sprinkled with plenty of nail-biting intrigue, then Janis Susan May’s The Other Half of your Heart is the ideal book for you!



Cara Waters thinks that she is one of the luckiest women in the world. She has been swept off her feet by a hunky former football player and has been taken to Mexico by him. But all her romantic ideals are shattered when she spots her fellow co-worker Dave Burkhart.



Back home, Dave keeps stalking Cara and she’s not best pleased to find him following her – and she’s absolutely petrified when Dave abducts her and accuses her of being a criminal. But Cara’s nightmare is not over yet, for there are real criminals on the look out for them – and they won’t stop until they get what they want.



Teeming with plenty of danger, passion and excitement, The Other Half of Your Heart is a fast-paced tale of romantic intrigue written by a talented writer whose star is on the rise! JB

Stolen By the Sheikh

Stolen by the Sheikh by Marianne LaCroix

Red Rose Publishing

Desert Rose Line

ISBN: 978-1-60435-019-7

Novella

48 Pages

$2.99

4 red roses



Get swept away by Marianne LaCroix’s gorgeous Sheikh in this sensuous romantic tale that taps into every woman’s secret fantasy!



Lady Christine Langtry is in Morocco when she is suddenly taken as a captive by a desert lord with a dangerous glint in his eye. Christine fears the desert lord and begs him to return to Casablanca and to take her back to normality. But Sheikh Zafar bin Hassan shows no sign of relinquishing her. If anything, he is keen to seduce her and make her his.



But just when Christine begins to succumb to his tempting kisses and his skilful seduction, she gets the shock of her life for she learns that her dead husband has traded her away – and now the Sheikh can do whatever he wants with her.


This is a steamy erotic romance that is not for the fainthearted! Ms. LaCroix has written a passionate romantic tale that will keep you warm on a cold winter’s night. Although it’s a short story, Stolen by the Sheikh is sure to delight and tantalize fans of erotic romance everywhere! JB 4.5

I Came Upstairs

MC Halliday/ I Came Upstairs/Dark Eden Press/ebook/182 pages


Born Mabel Gray, she rose to become Marisa Montague, courtesan of London society, sought after by titled men. Close to succumbing to a mean death in the slums, Mabel is rescued by Mr Robert Vickers. He sees in her an opportunity to make money, but he cannot guess at the heights she will eventually scale. Her natural sexuality, keen mind and beauty take her way beyond him. Encouraged by the tender love making of Lord Morley and her success on the stage, Marisa leaves Mr Vickers to live in a hotel. It is there that she is approached by Lady Morley, who asks her to teach her how to attract her husband's attentions. Marisa enjoys this interlude, as she enjoys all the further sexual encounters in the book. Mae, as she soon becomes, goes from one lover to the next, showered with honours and rich gifts. She is betrayed by friends and loved by many, but will know pain and heartbreak as well as triumph.

This exciting story in the style of Moll Flanders is a good, meaty read that will keep readers enthralled to the end. The sexual adventures of this lady are many and amusing. MC Halliday writes what Defoe would not have dared in his day and the result is a sensual story of erotic adventures. This book deserves to be a success! Five red roses, Anne

www.darkednepress.com

Keep voting! Christmas Awards

I just want to remind visitors to this blog that our reviewers read well over two hundred books since we began in March 2007. It was hard to choose a shortlist from those authors and some good books may have been missed out. Those that made it lingered in our minds and therefore all of them are exceptional.

The voting is going well. Keep voting for your favourite authors and books. You can vote as often as you like.

After All these Years

After All These Years by Gwen Masters/Forbidden Publications/ebook





One day while waiting for her train Marilyn hears a man talking to her. At first she thinks he is crazy, but soon realizes he isn’t. The man brings back the past with the force of a speeding train. He tells her his name is William and that he once knew her husband. Suddenly the 20 years since her husband’s death doesn’t seem that long ago.



Not sure if she can really trust him, Marilyn decides to take a chance and see what William has to say. The more she talks to him the more she learns about her husband and ultimately about herself. William was afraid to contact her for fear of what would happen. The sparks fly as they get to know each other and talk more about Marilyn’s husband Bobby.



Talking to William turns out to be bittersweet. Marilyn has the chance to relive her life with Bobby but it also brings home the fact that for 20 years she has been alone and missing him everyday.







This is a wonderful and heartwarming story. It is very moving. This is one that once you start reading it you won’t want to put it down until the very last page. It also stays with you long after finishing the last word.





I give this one 5 red roses.

Christmas Awards!

Red Roses For Authors/Reviews

CHRISTMAS AWARDS 2007

We are pleased to announce our first awards. The reviewers have each chosen books they particularly liked from those they reviewed for the site. Now everyone can vote for their favourite by email. The winning authors will receive a small gift from Red Roses For Authors /Reviews to mark their win. One lucky voter will also receive a small gift from us. The emails will be put into a hat and drawn at the end of the time and the one chosen notified by email.

The name of the nominated authors are as follows for the main award:

Louise Allen For No Place For A Lady/ Harlequin Mills & Boon
Jen Black For the Dark Pool/ Cambridge Books
Nicola Cornick For The Lord of Scandal/ Mira Books
Desiree Holt For Cupid's Shaft/Valentine Vixens
Maddie James For The Curse/Resplendence Publishing
J Morgan For How Wicked Can She Go//Dark Eden Press
Elizabeth Rolls for A Compromised Lady/Harlequin Mills & Boon
Charlene Sands For Bodine's Bounty/ Harlequin Historical
Dee Shore For Male Cage/Red Rose Publishing
Katharine Swartz For Far Horizons/ Robert Hale
Kate Tremayne For The Loveday Loyalty /Headline

The names of the nominated authors for the short/novella award are:

Bonnie Clark For Jeremy/Dark Eden Press
Dee Dawning for Forbidden Passions/Dark Eden Press
Sara Freeze For The Earl's Enchantment/ Wild Rose Press
Melissa Glisson For The Ballet/Red Rose Publishing
Sloane Taylor For French Tart/Eternal Press
To vote for your favourite please send your email to

rosesauthor@yahoo.co.uk

Please put Christmas Awards and the name of the author at the head of your email, thank you. The entry for this award closes at midnight on 15th December.

Playing with the Gods

Playing with the Gods by Sarah Rainwater Tanner





Just when Amaryllis loses her job and thinks things are going all wrong, she gets a chance to start over again. As she gets to her new home she meets a gorgeous man that just happens to live next door. Things are definitely starting to look up for her. She first sees Priapus, her new neighbor when she looks up at her new place.



Just as things start to get very hot and fun things become very complicated very fast.



Be careful when playing with Greek Gods – you never know what they will do next.





This is a very hot book. It is also a lot of fun to read. You keep guessing as to what will happen next. This is worth getting. Be sure to have some ice cold water close by for this one. This is a fun take on the Greek Gods.





I give this one 4-1/2 red roses. Larena

Christmas Awards 2007

Red Roses For Authors/Reviews

CHRISTMAS AWARDS 2007

We are pleased to announce our first awards. The reviewers have each chosen books they particularly liked from those they reviewed for the site. Now everyone can vote for their favourite by email. The winning authors will receive a small gift from Red Roses For Authors /Reviews to mark their win. One lucky voter will also receive a small gift from us. The emails will be put into a hat and drawn at the end of the time and the one chosen notified by email.

The name of the nominated authors are as follows for the main award:

Louise Allen For No Place For A Lady/ Harlequin Mills & Boon
Jen Black For the Dark Pool/ Cambridge Books
Nicola Cornick For The Lord of Scandal/ Mira Books
Desiree Holt For Cupid's Shaft/Valentine Vixens
Maddie James For The Curse/Resplendence Publishing
J Morgan For How Wicked Can She Go//Dark Eden Press
Elizabeth Rolls for A Compromised Lady/Harlequin Mills & Boon
Charlene Sands For Bodine's Bounty/ Harlequin Historical
Dee Shore For Male Cage/Red Rose Publishing
Katharine Swartz For Far Horizons/ Robert Hale
Kate Tremayne For The Loveday Loyalty /Headline

The names of the nominated authors for the short/novella award are:

Bonnie Clark For Jeremy/Dark Eden Press
Dee Dawning for Forbidden Passions/Dark Eden Press
Sara Freeze For The Earl's Enchantment/ Wild Rose Press
Melissa Glisson For The Ballet/Red Rose Publishing
Sloane Taylor For French Tart/Eternal Press
To vote for your favourite please send your email to

rosesauthor@yahoo.co.uk

Please put Christmas Awards and the name of the author at the head of your email, thank you. The entry for this award closes at midnight on 15th December.

Awards!

Red Roses for Authors is pleased to announce that they will soon be holding their first CHRISTMAS AWARD. A list of authors nominated by their reviewers will be published here shortly and everyone will be able to vote for their favourite.

The author will be credited as being the best author to be review for 2007 here at Red Roses For Authors and will receive a gift from us. One lucky voter will also receive a small gift. Details will appear here soon!

Jeremy

Jeremy/Bonnie Clarke/Dark Eden Press/9pages

Jeremy thinks about having an affair with Alisha constantly. His fertile imagination conjures up a scenario that gives him exquisite pleasure. However, there is a sting in the end of this saucy tale.

This is a short story but the skill of this talented author and her powerful descriptions make it a must read. 4.5 red roses, Anne

Hundreds of Years To Reform A Rake

Laurie Brown/Hundreds of Years To Reform A Rake/Source Books/ISBN1-4022-1013-2/UK £3.99/ USA$8.99/paperback 391 pages

When Josie Drummond first met Deverell the ninth Earl of Waite he was a ghost. But a ghost with such a magnetic personality that he drew her back to the time of his life to help solve a mystery that would save the present generation from poverty. Josie researches ghosts and paranormal experiences, which is why she agrees to learn to live as a Regency lady. Deverell promises to bring her back, and though she doesn't really believe any of it will happen she agrees. Swept back in time, Josie comes face to face with the real earl and he is many times more physical and attractive than his ghost. Josie falls in love and she must make a choice between the man and the ghost.

In the beginning there is an awful lot of detail about the way the Regency ladies wore their clothes and behaved, which could have become tedious if it had not been rescued by quarrels between the ghost and Josie. However, once we got back to the past the drama and attraction between these two became riveting and utterly fascinating. This unusual story is beautifully plotted and the writing is excellent. This is a keeper for anyone's shelf. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will certainly read it again in the future. Five red roses. Anne

Interview with Secret St. James

Tell us a little about yourself: First I’d like to thank Linda for this opportunity and introduce myself. Thank you, Linda and I’m Secret St.James. Now little about myself, I’ve been married for almost twenty years to the same wonderful man. I have two wonderful boys ‘waits for the lighting strike’ I have several cats and one dog. We live in a small town in Michigan well about five minutes outside of town.
What do you write? I write: Paranormal / Fantasy other than that it depends on what my ‘voices’ characters tell me. *laughs*
Why do you write? I write because I enjoy it.
What are you writing now? I’m working on several books right now and yes paranormal / fantasy.
What kind of clothes do you like to wear? Jeans and a nice shirt and I’m happy.
Are you in love? Have you ever been? Yes and yes. With the same man for over twenty years now
Do you have a dream lover – and what does he look like? Don’t we all? And the lead singer from Skid Row, It’s the hair.
What kind of comfort food do you like best? Chocolate
What makes you laugh? Cry? My friend in Texas when she’s ranting about the stupid people that drive, I don’t
What do you do to amuse yourself when not working? I read
What is it in a man or woman that turns you on? The clean version please! You mean my husband is suppose to turn me on *laughs* that would depend on what he’s doing.
What do you hate about life? Life is too short to hate it.
What do you hope to achieve in life and when will you know that you have been a success? When one wakes up each morning should be achievement and success enough.
What are you going to write next? We’ll have to wait and see what the voices tell me*grins*

Taking it All in

Taking It All In by Dalton/Dark Eden press/ebook





This book as something for everyone. Each chapter is a different story which really makes for a great interesting read.



Starting with Anne and her boyfriend they decide to explore their relationship.



This book covers all the different types of relationships. From first love through a couple that has been married for years. Each couple finds a way to spice up their relationship and keep it fresh. It was like reading several books all in one book.





This one is worth reading because there is something for all readers. Each story is a stand alone. It is a very good book to read.





I give this one 4 red roses.

The Sanctified Wife

The Sanctified Wife/Dana Littlejohn/ebook/ Ameria Press/49 pages

Angela Dean married at eighteen to Robert. They have three wonderful sons, but life has become a routine and one that leaves Robert little time for his wife. Now that Angela's three sons have all grown up and left home she does not know what to do with herself. So she decides to join a bookclub and things start to happen - but is everything as it seems?

This is a sensual adventure with a good twist at the end. The writer has taken a conventional theme of the lonely wife and made it her own. I enjoyed this book. 4.5 red roses, Morna

Tamed By The Barbarian

June Francis/Tamed by the Barbarian/ Harlequin Mills & Boon/ISBN 978-0263-85195-3/paperback/296 pages

Cicely Milburn does not wish to marry and leave her family. However, when a rogue lawyer tries to take advantage of her father's death, she has to rely on Lord Rory Mac Killen. Cicely distrusts all men from north of the border, but there is no one else to help her. Can she learn to trust and love this bold stranger she calls a barbarian? A spirited historical romance you won't want to miss!

Francis has written an exciting adventure. Bold, passionate and reckless, cicely is a worthy heroine. This writer never fails to deliver whether the book is a romance or a saga. Five red roses. Anne Herries

Ask Adam

Ask Adam/Jess Dee/Samhain Publishing/ebook/174 pages

Lexi Tanner needs to see someone urgently, but the hotel receptionist tells her that Mr AJ Riley isn't available. As she is leaving the hotel she nearly tumbles down the stairs but is saved by a wall of solid muscle that turns out to be the sexiest man on two legs! When they next meet their mutual need leads to a night of fantastic sex. Lexi doesn't even ask who he is; she doesn't need to know, because this is just a casual fling. However, fate decrees otherwise and suddenly her projecy for charity is in danger - but so is her heart.

Can Lexi find happiness or has it all gone wrong for her and Adam? Adam is haunted by the past. Can he overcome his fears and believe in a new love?

This is a powerful sensul love story. The sex scenes explode off the page, but there is much more than just sex to this riveting tale. Written with style and flair, this book grabs you from the start and holds you to the end. Highly recommended! Five red roses, Anne

Beyond The Blue Hills

Beyond the Blue Hills by Katie Flynn
Publisher: Arrow Books


Tess and Tina Collins are two young sisters growing up in pre-war Liverpool. They live with their widowed mother, Laura, Laura’s sister, Millie and her seven children. Thanks to a chance meeting, not only is Laura offered the job of cook in a new café shortly to be opened, but also accommodation for her and the girls in the flat above the café. Life is finally starting to go well for Laura and her daughters, but then war breaks out and nothing is ever the same again. Tina is evacuated to a farm in Herefordshire and Tess joins the Land Army in Norfolk

Danny Brewster and his cousin, Phil Ryland, live in Herefordshire with their parents. The Brewsters and the Rylands both own farms and the boys are one day destined to take over from their fathers. Life is idyllic for Danny and his girlfriend Sophie, but Phil wants more. When war breaks out, both boys are eager to join the RAF, but they are torn between their country and the need to work the land. Danny eventually choses the RAF and Phil follows sometime later. After training, both boys meet up at an RAF station in Norfolk.

The lives of Tess, Tina, Danny and Phil become entwined in this tale of young love during the Second World War when people’s lives were turned upside down and nothing could be taken for granted. Tess worries for her boyfriend, Mike, serving abroad, Tina has to face responsibilities beyond her years and Phil commits the ultimate betrayal against Danny.

This is a very enjoyable, tender love story set against the heartbreak of war. I can highly recommend this book and its author, having also read A Long and Lonely Road, which is also well worth looking out for.

I award Beyond the Blue Hills four red roses. PS

Interview With Tara Greenbaum

Interview With Tara Greenbaum
Tell us a little about yourself

I live in Florida with my husband, two little boys, and two dachshunds. I used to be an elementary school teacher. Now I’m a stay-at-home-mom. I’m on the PTA board at my boy’s school. I write as much as possible while chauffeuring my boys to karate, soccer, basketball and cub scouts.

What do you write?
Contemporary romance


Why do you write?
I love the escape from reality

What are you writing now?
I’m writing a young adult

What kind of clothes do you like to wear?
Comfy clothes around the house. I try to be presentable at the school. :0)

Are you in love? Have you ever been?
I’ve been married for 11 ½ years and I still very much love the boy.

Do you have a dream lover – and what does he look like?
Oooooh yes! A hunky Navy SEAL.

What kind of comfort food do you like best?
Salty chips

What makes you laugh? Cry?
My kids make me laugh and . . . cry

What do you do to amuse yourself when not working?
I love to read and watch mindless TV

What is it in a man or woman that turns you on? The clean version please!
I love a guy to be a “guy” Flannel shirts, blue jeans, baseball hat. Masculinity turns me way on.

What do you hate about life?
Anything that brings you from a happy mood

What do you hope to achieve in life and when will you know that you have been a success?
I want to look back and say. . .WOW! What a ride. I will feel successful when my boys are happy, successful adults

What are you going to write next?
The sequal to my young adult :0)
http://taragreenbaum.com/

Just Wait

Just Wait by Rowan McBride/Dark Eden Press/ebook





Mark and Travis are twins with some unusually powers. Marks powers are stronger than Travis’. Travis isn’t sure just how strong Mark is. Bound by family tradition on just how much power they can use, Mark is breaking all the rules.



On their own for the first time in college they are learning just how far they can go. Mark is going to push the bounds as far as he can. He is going to see just how far his powers will reach.





This is an interesting book as it takes witchcraft and puts a spin on it. I really enjoyed this very different book. It is worth taking a look at.





I give this one 4 red roses.







Taking It All In by Dalton/ Dark Eden Press/ebook





This book as something for everyone. Each chapter is a different story which really makes for a great interesting read.



Starting with Anne and her boyfriend they decide to explore their relationship.



This book covers all the different types of relationships. From first love through a couple that has been married for years. Each couple finds a way to spice up their relationship and keep it fresh. It was like reading several books all in one book.





This one is worth reading because there is something for all readers. Each story is a stand alone. It is a very good book to read.





I give this one 4 red roses.

Taken by The Viking

Michelle Styles/Taken By the Viking/Harlequin Mills & Boon/ISBN 978-0-263-85200-4/paperback/292 pages

When the Vikings land on Lindisfarne in 793 they speak of trading but their claim for payment is not believed. A hot- head attacks them and this leads to terrible slaughter. Annis, niece of the Abbot is at the mercy of a fierce warrior when another Viking comes to her aid. He is then suddenly at the mercy of a man who should be a comrade. Through a lucky chance, Annis kills the beast man. She little understands what she has done or what fate has in store for her, because in Viking law a debt must be paid.

This is an exciting tale of adventure and love. Beautifully researched and written as always by this excellent author. I believe that this story is even better than her tales of Roman life. Five red roses, Anne

A Perfect Hero

The Perfect Hero by Aline deChevigny



Cassandra is a writer who is having problems with her hero. He just won’t do what he is supposed to do. He is not turning out to be a hero but a wimp. Just as Cassandra is about to give up on him, Nicolas comes along and turns her world upside down.





Nicolas walks into the coffee shop that Cassandra goes to every day. Nicolas takes one look at Cassandra and knows he has found the woman of his dreams. There just seems to be one problem, Cassandra. He gets the chance to prove they were meant to be together when she tells him he would make the perfect hero. Now if he can just get everyone to stay out of it things, it would be perfect.





This is a great book. I loved the way the sparks flew with Nicolas and Cassandra. It was fun to see Nicolas overcome the obstacles to get what he wanted.





I give this book 4-1/2 red roses.
Larena

Aline de Chevigny

Tell us a little about yourself
I’m a 34 year old, old maid…no wait, 21st century right. Ahem...I’, a 34 year old independent woman. Yup sounds much better **grin**
I plan to keep writing as long as there’s someone out there who wants to read my stories…or I run out of ideas.

What do you write?
I write Romance, more specifically HEA romances in all genres and sub genres. I’m very fond of mixing genres in story. Have even gone so far as to created a Romantic Thriller LOL.

If you like Happily Ever After, then you’ll love the road travelled to get there.
That’s my modo and I’m sticking to it. hehe

Why do you write?
I’ve been a story teller all my life, more of a bard in the past than a writer. I would make up stories and then tell them to my cousins while we visited my grandparents for the summer. Then I’d talk them into acting tem out hehehe. I guess this is the next logical step since I’m terrified of acting LOL.

That and it would be kind of hard to convince grown men to pretend to be damsels in distress so that I could rescue them. **big grin**

By writing I can share my stories with a wider audience and if they want to act them out…well…they can be my guest hehe

What are you writing now?
I always have 2-5 stories on the go hehe how did you think I got multiple submissions done LOL. At the moment I’m writing a Valentine’s story, boo4 of the Chronicles of the cursed series, finishing my Brava entry and in November joining NANO.
Oh right there’s Forbidden Island too LOL

You can check out my ongoing progress on my blog http://alinedechevigny.blogspot.com/ and cheer me on as I sweat with Sven.

What kind of clothes do you like to wear?
Comfy! Hehehe I’m no girly girl, getting me in a dress will require my funeral hehe Cause then I won’t have a choice.
I spend half my time in steel toed boots and PPE Equipment so when I get home I want comfy, loose clothing.

Are you in love? Have you ever been?
No I’m not in love. I thought I was once but it was a wrong number.
I know that one day I will be. The guy meant for me is just being stubborn at the moment. I believe in love at first sight, hopefully he will too.

Do you have a dream lover – and what does he look like?
Oh definitely, but I have no idea what he looks like, he’s always in shadow. But I know what he feels like. When I meet him I’ll know.

What kind of comfort food do you like best?
That’s easy homey foods.
Homemade meatball soup (My dad’s recipe)
Cabbage rolls (My mom’s recipe)
Scalloped potatoes (My recipe)
Roasted Pork, potatoes, carrots and sour dough bread (Grandma’s specialty)

What makes you laugh? Cry?
Ok Laugh first… um everything and anything LOL
A good joke, a bad joke, romantic comedies, bad horror movies LOL
My Nephews LOL

And crying...I’m such a suck LOL
Those Bell Canada telephone commercials
Movie previews to sad movies
Pride and Prejudice
Jane Eyre
Need I go on?

What do you do to amuse yourself when not working?
I like to watch movies, go out with my friends, pick on my friends, corrupt their kids. **evil grin**
Visit my family or stay home and read a good book…man I miss reading.
But mostly I write and chat with the readers on the loops oh and Sleep. Lots and lots of sleep.
I work a 2 week in and 2 week out rotation, so after my 180-290 ours in the 2 weeks on, I’m exhausted.

What is it in a man or woman that turns you on? The clean version please!
Men…. Ok first yummy.
It’s the eyes, then a good sense of humour. He seriously needs to be able to take a joke.
I like stubborn men with sarcastic wits LOL what can I say, I can be difficult at times so I need a man who won’t run away the 1st time we have a little fight. I mean seriously where the fun in that?
Loyalty, that is beyond sexy.

What do you hate about life?
People who are only out for themselves and will walk all over everyone just to get what they want.
That and people who steal form others, so they don’t have to work. That burns my ass.

What do you hope to achieve in life and when will you know that you have been a success?
A Nobel Prize.
I kid you not, I’ve wanted one since I was 6.
I’d been aiming for one in chemistry, but unless I get that job in research LOL, one in Literature will do. **big goofy grin**
Then I’ll know I did it.

What are you going to write next?
I seriously have no idea past NANO LOL
Probably that Faerie story fro RRP I promised Wendi LOL

Interview With Nancy Lindley-Gauthier

Tell us a little about yourself
I admire horses, and love to both ride and drive them. Over the years, I have come to admire many different breeds, and many of my works involve some detail of equine history.
My latest, coming soon from The Red Rose Press, is called 'Secret Fire.' It is the story of an heiress on an Arabian horse buying expedition, set back in the 1950s. I enjoyed the research into the desert countries where people searched, so long ago, for those beautiful horses.

What do you write?
I write both long and short works, most with some type of adventure as the main theme. I love to read, and tend to be quite eclectic about reading choice; it’s a specific storyline that will appeal to me. Among my favourites are mysteries and romances, and feel my own best works combine the two.


Why do you write?
I am motivated to write whenever I can't find exactly the story that I want to read. If I want to read about a personal quest, like someone attempting to sail around the world, and can't find that sort of story (that I am envisioning,) I start to write it.

What are you writing now?
I am working on a sequel to that historic romance 'Secret Fire,' tentatively titled, 'Forbidden Fire.' It follows the main character, Sybil, as she struggles to adjust to what is, in essence, a whole new world to her.


What kind of clothes do you like to wear?
I am afraid I am a t-shirt, jeans and flip-flops kind of girl.


Are you in love? Have you ever been?
I am about the luckiest person in the world: I am married to the love of my life, my wonderful Kent.


Do you have a dream lover – and what does he look like?
I have to admit, Kent in his wedding suit about blew me away. He is teddy-bear cute, with crystal-blue eyes, laugh lines, and an always-present smile.

What kind of comfort food do you like best?
Pie: blueberry pie. Rhubarb or pecan are good, apple will do, but there is nothing like blueberry.

What makes you laugh? Cry?
We have a lot of animals - one very opinionated cat, three dogs, and seven horses. We have two chickens, as well. You don't have to work very hard to find humor in all their activities.

What do you do to amuse yourself when not working?
I take my horses out for a carriage drive (not all at once, one or two at a time. I am very envious of those 'whips' that can handle the reins on four horses, or more!) I dream of sailing, but honestly only get out a couple times a year.

What is it in a man or woman that turns you on? The clean version please! Beautiful eyes are number one: a stunning voice can send shivers down my spine, though.

What do you hate about life?
I don't adapt well to changes; large or small. So, the hardest thing about life for me is coping with the unexpected.

What do you hope to achieve in life and when will you know that you have been a success?
Success, to me, is all about living a wonderful life, enjoying life and helping others to enjoy life. It isn't something that you do, complete, and stand back to admire, but rather, something that you try to do everyday.

What are you going to write next?
A funny, quirky romance series about two sisters growing up on the coast of Maine: their lives and loves. I am having a really wonderful time with the start of those, and hope to develop them into a full-length book. I call the manuscript "The Painter's Impressions."

Interview with Tambra Kendall

Tell us a little about yourself


What do you write? I write mostly paranormal romance: futuristic/fantasy, contemporary, historical. Currently, my erotic romance titles, from all of these subgenres is what I’m selling the most of. I write the erotic and really hot titles under the name Tambra Kendall, the other romances under Keelia Greer.


Why do you write? From the time I was twelve years old, I knew I wanted to be a writer. Specifically, a romance writer. You see, even then I had to have my happily ever after. Writing is also therapeutic for me. When I’m away from it for two weeks or more, it makes me physically ill. The need to create is very strong.


What are you writing now? A Celtic fantasy romance and futuristic romance novels, three novellas and a short sensual romance.


What kind of clothes do you like to wear? Full, flowing skirts make of lightweight cotton, camisole top and thong sandals.


Are you in love? Have you ever been? I have been in love, but I’m not right now.


Do you have a dream lover – and what does he look like? Country singer, Keith Urban or model, Chris Dougles.


What kind of comfort food do you like best? Dark chocolate


What makes you laugh? Cry? Laughter: Monty Python and the Flying Circus, Benny Hill, Wallace and Gromit. (I love Gromit and Sean the Sheep!)



What do you do to amuse yourself when not working? I watch the History Channel, I’m a watercolorist and like to do art crafts. And I sing. If it works with my schedule, I enter karaoke contests.


What is it in a man or woman that turns you on? The clean version please! A man who genuinely respects and enjoys a woman’s company. A man that’s honest and not afraid of work.

What do you hate about life? The unfairness of situations you can’t get out of, no matter how much you want change. People that are cruel to other people and animals, racism, war, poverty.

What do you hope to achieve in life and when will you know that you have been a success? I hope to write all the books I can. I’d like to bring some happiness into the world with the stories I create. Making a good living from the writing. Speaking at conferences, making bestsellers lists, having students attend the classes I teach. I teach online creative writing classes and occasionally for our local college.

Most of all, I think, having readers write or tell me that one of my books made their lives better or helped them through a difficult time.

What are you going to write next? I’m writing two paranormal romantic suspense novellas, a short that’s contracted with my publisher and the Celtic fantasy romance novel. I work on more than one project at a time.

Thank you for the lovely questions. I’ve added the places to reach me and the titles I have available.

tambrakendall@sbcglobal.net
keeliagreer@sbcglobal.net
www.tambrakendall.com
www.keeliagreer.com
www.myspace.com/tambrakendall
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/tambrakendall
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/keeliagreer
www.daughtersofcirce.com

TITLES under Tambra Kendall
Wicked Pleasures, a humorous erotic historical romance, from Red Rose Publishing
www.redrosepublishing.com

From Whiskey Creek Press Torrid www.whiskeycreekpresstorrid.com

Celtic Love Knots Volume 3, featuring my short erotic romance, Through a Magic Mist, an Irish time travel.

Summer Solstice Scorchers anthology featuring my contemporary vampire erotic romance, A Taste of the Forbidden.

TITLES under Keelia Greer
Available from Highland Press www.highlandpress.org

Blue Moon Magic anthology featuring In the Space of a Heartbeat, a futuristic vampire romance.

Holiday in the Heart featuring Ballou’s Christmas Wish, a contemporary romance with a matchmaking Westie.

For reviews and excerpts go to my websites.

Interview With Dana Littlejohn

Tell us a little about yourself: I am Dana Littlejohn, wife, mom, sister, god-mother, aunt, friend...I wear so many hats. I wouldn’t know where to start.

What do you write? I write sensual erotic romance. I blend of the two I think.

Why do you write? To release the people who live in my head.

What are you writing now? I just finished a voo/magic kind of romance called Cajun Magic.

What kind of clothes do you like to wear? I don’t really have a style, but I have been told I am unique, but don’t know if that was a compliment or not. LOL If I’m not leaving the house I take a hot shower and put on my over sized satin pajamas.

Are you in love? Have you ever been? Oh yes. My husband is literally my best friend and I love him dearly. He is my second husband and after being young and naïve in the first I do know I am truly in love this time.

Do you have a dream lover – and what does he look like? Although I appreciate the beauty in all men, tall, short, buffed, slim, dark, light, black, white, Spanish, (I like them all!) I will say I am partial to short,(under 5’6”) stocky men. I can snuggle in the neck of a man that size.

What kind of comfort food do you like best? I love ice cream. My favourite is Ben and Jerry’s Cherry Garcia.

What makes you laugh? Cry? I love comedies. I laugh at crazy stuff like spoof movies (Kung Fu Hustle is my favourite). I cry when other people cry. I connect with other people pain. I live in a house full of men and they call me a cry baby when I see people on TV cry and I cry with them. I don’t watch movies that will make me cry or scare me. I don’t like to be scared, I’d rather laugh.

What do you do to amuse yourself when not working? I always keep my creative side working. If I’m not writing I’m crocheting, colouring pictures for my office wall or making crafts for whatever holiday might be coming up.

What is it in a man or woman that turns you on? The clean version please! I like a confident man, an alpha male, someone who knows how to take control without over powering me.

What do you hate about life? I hate prejudice. We are all God’s children and the same underneath.

What do you hope to achieve in life and when will you know that you have been a success? I want to be a positive person to all that I come in contact with. When someone asks anyone if they know Dana Littlejohn I want the response to be “Yeah, I know her. She’s great! I just love her.” That’s when I know I’ve done what I’m supposed to do. I know everyone won’t do that and I’m not looking to be liked by everyone, I just want to be a positive person.

What are you going to write next? Now that I am done with Cajun Magic I am going to start Hadji’s Princess. It’s another magic thing, taking place in Egypt with a handsome prince, a beautiful princess and a beautiful but evil genie.

Interview With Stephanie Burke

Tell us a little about yourself

There is not much to tell, really. I am a dyslexic wife to a real life Viking descendent, which would explain his love of pillaging and claiming everything in the house as his own...like the TV and remote! LOL I have two Viking spawnlings, who worship their father like a deity and give me respect as the producer of food and punishments. LOL I have been writing for a number of years now and have written for several publishers, both successful and active as well for one or two who are now defunct. Whimper. I home school my eldest son, kids got an IQ of about 1 at twelve, and when I am not trying to cram for his next school day, I host a lot of writers panels at conferences and lecture when they flash enough money in my direction. *g* I am co-founder of the charity Write for Hope, started an anime convention, which I then lost to a bunch of upstart college students in Southern California, ARGH AND WHIMPER, and I mentor a few writers as well as paint my walls when I am feeling down. Got a lovely Japanese screen painting going up on my wall now... Hmm, this may mean that I am in the beginning stages of bi-polar syndrome...or need a vacation! LOL I am also, you guessed it, an avid anime fan and zombie enthusiasts.... Okay, I do charity zombie walks in full make up to raise awareness... okay, its just fun to put on the costume and take over the occasional town. I costume as well, and have won several awards and masquerades for my creations. I guess it’s safe to say that my family and I are not mundane. LOL


What do you write?

I try to write anything that peaks my interest. So far, I have crossed so many genre’s that even I get confused. Currently I have written erotica, romantica, romance, horror, sci-fi, paranormal, alternate histories, homoerotic, and fantasy stories published. In the works, however, I have several mysteries, steam punk, and a few cyber punk pieces in the works. I have an imagination that runs away from me at times.

Why do you write?

I write to make those damn voices in my head shut up! LOL No actually, I write because it is a release for me. Writing allows me to escape the real world where everything is out of my control and doesn’t have a happy ending, to create and explore a place where no matter what happens, love does help defeat the bad thing, even the enemies you can’t see are defeated, and where goodness wins...sometimes. Its great fun and it allows my mind to wonder and travel to places that only few can conceive of, then come back and share the tales. I think I am a natural story teller, and I love to share my stories with anyone who is willing to listen.

What are you writing now?

The question should be what am I not? LOL So far, I am writing two series for Red Rose publishing, continuing several series form other publishers, trying to get a post apocalyptic story to a totally sci-fi publisher, fighting off hordes of invading aliens with the help of a kitten in another universe, invading the minds of warped and insane vampires, creating super heroes, and playing with gargoyles. LOL But if we must get specific, I am now finishing or working on...here we go...

Dragon’s Weir- Red Rose Publishing
Dragon’s Clutch- Red Rose Publishing
Green-Changeling Press
Gray- Changeling Press
Space Opera 2, the second movement- Changeling Press
Green World- Loose-Id Press
The Coven- Loose-ID press
The Slayer 2-Blood Redemption- Ellora’s Cave
Lucavarian- Ellroa’s Cave
Harder – Final Sword Productions

There are more, but they are all in the works.

What kind of clothes do you like to wear?

Woo Hoo! I am a clothes horse! LOL I love Goth wear and Asian influenced clothing. Harajuku is a common word around here! LOL! And then there is my love of leather, which I can’t afford, so a lot of my characters get to indulge instead! LOL But best of all....shoes! I have dozens of pairs of shoes! Boots, and heels, clogs and platforms, I love most of them all! *g*
But most of the time, I am in sweats and t-shirts. Whimper! But who can teach science in the kitchen in a pair of five inch heels? So when the husband says, +let’s go shopping, I am pressed and primped within five minuets! So what if we are only going grocery shopping, I think the black velvet gown is perfect for squeezing melons! ROTFLMAO


Are you in love? Have you ever been?

Oh I am in love with the Viking. It prevents me from giving him an early Viking Burial on the sofa! LOL Seriously, I have been in love for a lot of years, and because of that, I know that I can rely on my Dennis to pep me up when I am felling down, to cheer me up when I want to cy, to make fun of me when I’ve had a bad day until it doesn’t seem all that important, and to just complete me. Everyone should try love. It feels really good.


Do you have a dream lover – and what does he look like?

Oh I have a dream lover. He’s rich and dark and....Okay, that was the chocolate fantasy! LOL Dram lover, I don’t think I have one. My desires and wants change so often that any dream lover I have would have to be a shape shifter! LOL So instead, I simply crate a host of men, some likable, some detestable, that I exploit for fun and profit! LOL My dreams seem to translate really well to my heroes that I create. And I dream of chocolates and decadent deserts! *g*

What kind of comfort food do you like best?

Lasagne and chocolate! What else is there? *g* Oh, that and some really good Oktoberfest beer! *G* I do have some German in my blood! *g*

What makes you laugh? Cry?

Hmm, laugh? I laugh a lot! Better to laugh tan to cry. But funny movies, anime, children’s laughter, puppies and ponies, pratfalls, and a really good dirty jokes...people who are overly PC... myself at times.... Its good to find the humour in any situation. Laugher extend you life, you know! *G*
As for crying, tragedy, heart ache, being unable to help the people I love and care about, fear for my children. Sigh, that is so depressing I must go and find a good dirty joke! LOL

What do you do to amuse yourself when not working?

Not Working? What is that? LOL I guess in the few moments I can spare, that I am not in the bathroom; I watch anime and read manga. *g* Or if I get a few hours, I will soak in the tub and read romances like I am a descendant princess. I think I was a princess in a past life! It would explain my longing for half naked harem boys serving my every whim! Oh! That would make a great book! LOL

What is it in a man or woman that turns you on? The clean version please!

Drats! Have to be clean! Hmm... well in that case.... I love long luxurious hair on a man! Long pretty hair that I can play in and run all over my naked.... Clean, she said! LOL I love hair, expressive eyes, and deep voices. I also love tall huge hunks of men that make me feel small and feminine...and safe. *g* Gee, I guess the romantic bug has got a good bite of my heart! *G* So tall, beautiful eyes, long hair, wonderful personality, and the ability to cook a seven course mean and clean up after himself! Hey, what do you know! I have a fantasy man after all! LOL

What do you hate about life?

Hmm, hard one. I guess I hate prejudice and injustice. I hate to see closed minded people persecuting others for their beliefs or lifestyles. I have seen far too much of that in my years. I unfortunately have to live with the facet that my children will have to see and live through this as well. And I guess I really hare humankinds ability to fear and hate anything that is different or something that they don’t understand. We need to learn from our experiences, not from tired old tales of people who knew no better back in their day. Another thing I hate to see the stronger hurting the weaker, the children who will endure abuse, the bullies that help lead up to a situation like Columbine, to see the voiceless get trampled and exploited by the louder and overbearing, no matter what their excuses are. It’s sad, wrong and a serious problem.

What do you hope to achieve in life and when will you know that you have been a success?

I hope to leave this world a little better than I found it! *g* I hope I can make my parents, my children, my husband and family proud of me. I hope to be able to continue to make a living doing what I love to do, and I hope that I can teach my children to see laughter and love where there is only hate and pain.
As for success, I guess I will never be satisfied with what I consider my successes. There is still so much out there to achieve and to explore! *G* I don’t; consider myself a success yet. Maybe one day when I put down my pen and declare that I have nothing more to say or share, and I can look back on my life and have no regrets or the dreaded “what if’s” then I can consider myself a success. But that day is a long way off and a long time in coming.

What are you going to write next?

What will I write next? Who knows! More fairies, vampires, aliens, interracial madness, good man on man love, bug people from Saturn, zombie love tales.... Who knows?! Maybe I’ll dream that answer and then I’ll get back with you. *g*

Stephanie Burke
AKA Flash
Theflashcat.net
Flamekeeper@yahoogroups.com
myspace.com/the_flash_cat

Lord of Scandal

Lord of Scandal/Nicola Cornick /HQN/ paperback/378 ISBN0373772114 $6.99 USA

Lord Ben Hawksmoor is a Regency celebrity, known for his wild deeds and his famous mistress. Women sigh over him and throw themselves at his feet, but Ben has only one thing on his mind and that is surviving in the debauched society, his birth has enabled him to enter, on what money he can win at the card tables. Ben has a title but no money. He has shown little interest in finding himself an heiress but that was before he met Miss Catherine Fenton.

At first Ben believes she is a cyprian and is intent on seducing her. She attracts him more than any other woman he knows, and when he discovers that she is also an heiress it look as if he has the answers to his problems. However, Catherine has a mind of her own and his troubles have only just started!

Dark, sultry and intriguing, this Regency book grips the reader from start to finish. This is international best selling author Nicola Cornick writing at a new level. Her legion of fans is going to be thrilled with this one! A bouquet of roses! Linda Sole

Siempre Mia

Cindy Jacks/Siempra Mia/Dark Eden Press/ebook/19pages
She is successful, rich enough and in control of her life - a modern woman. She takes lovers, keeping a special perfume for each, but Miguel wants more. Can she find the meaning of true emotion?

This is a short story about sexual affairs and learning to trust again. Well written and sensual. 4.5 red roses, Morna

Wish fulfillment

Wish Fulfillment/Penny Ash/Dark Eden Press/ebook/40 pages
Undercover agent Glenn Masterton is blinded in a raid on an apartment in Las Vegas. Lying in hospital, feeling bitter, he makes a chance remark about wishing he had a good fairy. When Twinkle turns up he is granted a wish, which is to regain his sight. However, he must repay the boon for his sight, and it works only when Twnkle is around. Twinkle is one naughty fairy and that is when the mayhem begins.

This is lots of fun. I enjoyed this naughty fairytale. Five red roses, Anne

The Perfect Hero

The Perfect Hero/Aline de Chevigny/Red Rose Publishing/ebook/62pages

Cassandra is an author in search of the perfect hero for her novel. Most of the men she meets are too nice, including Mike the owner of the cafe where she writes each day. However, Nick has his eye on her. She is a little suspicious and decides that he is perfect for her reasearch, and that is when the fun begins. Will it lead to happiness or heartbreak?

I enjoyed this short novel. It is bright, cheerful and fun as well as being sexy and romantic. I give this book 4.5 red roses. Morna

Interview with Kendra Mei Chailyn

Tell us a little about yourself
About myself...It’s always weird talking about yourself...lol...ok...I am a twenty four year old Jamaican living in Canada. I am also a university student so most of the time, between my writing and school along with a social life I barely even have time to breathe but I love it. I love acting, trying to sing along with a whole slew of other things that people wonder where I find time to do lol....I LOVE a good action movie where things blow up! And I love a good comedy. It’s funny, I’m not so much into the sappy romance movies...I don’t know why.

What do you write?
I write sensual, interracial romance. But I am looking to branch out!

Why do you write?
Why do I write? Simply? I write because I love it. I have been writing every since I was about ten (poems, songs etc). It seems that I have always been writing. It makes me smile to think that I can create something from nothing. I love it when people can pick up a copy of my work, read it and have a good day/night because of it. Writing keeps me sane, if I am having a bad day I sit down at my laptop and write. Other people go kickboxing or jogging or beat some one up (I don’t recommend by the way)...I write out my frustration.

What are you writing now?
Oh man..lets see now. I am working on my first Paranormal (wolf Shifter) for Red Rose Publishing. They are doing an anthology for Full Moon Farm. It’s a wonderful cause and since I have never written a paranormal before, this is proving to be a challenge but I say, bring it on! Lol...I am also working on the sequel to my first paper back novel “Destiny’s Cowboy” along with that I am researching Stonehenge for my Nanowrimo novel that I have titled “Stonehenge” that’s just a few of what I am working on...the list goes on lol!

What kind of clothes do you like to wear?
LOL! Kinda personal....lol...ok I’m a Tom Boy so I love a nice pair of baggy jeans, my university sweat shirt and a baseball cap. There’s this necklace of the Metallica “St Anger” fist that I wear on a regular basis. I love to be comfortable but when the time calls for it, I can get decked out with the best of ‘em.


Are you in love? Have you ever been?
Nope, I’m not in love though I just broke up with someone. Yes I have been in love. I dedicated one of my stories to him. Even though we no longer date, we are still close friends because we only broke up because of the distant thing so it wasn’t a drop-down butt-kicking sort of break up. He’s a wonderful guy and if the situation was different or ever becomes better I’d be right there again *blush*

Do you have a dream lover – and what does he look like?
Oh boy do I! Well, my dream lover is a mixture of Orlando Bloom, Michael Jai White, The Rock *growls* he has to be tender, loving, honest. Something like Mark from my story “A Sistah for Mark”

What kind of comfort food do you like best?
Chocolate! Anything that is chocolate! And some good old mommy’s cooking (Jamaican food) ok now I’m home-sick!

What makes you laugh? Cry?
What makes me laugh? Hrm....I am the biggest goof ball you’ll ever meet and my friends are crazy. If it’s a good joke I’ll laugh. Or if a friend does something stupid that is just out there. I love a good giggle too. I love the movie “Diary of a Mad Black Woman” for an example of some of my taste in comedy.

What makes me cry...Missing or abused children. That makes be cry and makes me angry. A sad movie, those commercials on television about starving children. Soldiers getting killed overseas, it breaks my heart.

What do you do to amuse yourself when not working?
I search through my author friend’s websites, MySpace, Facebook. Youtube (which I am addicted to). Bugging my mom and dad (I don’t live at home now because of out of town university so I call home often *grins*), I love American Justice and Cold Cases (the real Cold Cases).

What is it in a man or woman that turns you on? The clean version please!
Aww man! You’re no fun! Lol...Well the thing that turns me on in a man is if he’s independent. I am not clingy and I don’t want a man that is clingym who wants to know where I am every second of every day...it gets old. I love a man that can make me smile or just burst out laughing. And if he’s willing to sit down with me, cuddle and read a romance novel with me (yah right) then he’s got me!

What do you hate about life?
The truth? I hate how complicated it gets at times. But I guess without the complications there wouldn’t be so much good right?

What do you hope to achieve in life and when will you know that you have been a success?
I hope to one day write for Harlequin LOL big goals but hey, I was told to set my bar high. I want to eventually open my own publishing company and be able to travel where ever , whenever I want. But for the short term, I want to graduate with honours from university and find a good job to pay off my student loans and who knows, maybe find my happily ever after *Wink*

What are you going to write next?
Well, I am seriously thinking of writing an interracial series with really “Strange” culture mixes since I am OBSSESSED with cultures. But I shouldn’t even be thinking about a new story, my works in progress list is WAY too long! lol

Interview with Giselle Renarde

Tell us a little about yourself

I’m a Canadian city-dweller, but I would love to live in a forest bordering on a lake. Water is incredibly soothing. One day I’ll be a crazy cat lady, but I only have two kitties so far. My education is in communication theory, with special interest in sexuality and gender studies. I do volunteer work to help improve the lives of women and women-led families, but it’s a drop in the ocean. I want to do more for my community.

What do you write?

I write erotica. Straight, gay, lesbian, group... Actually, my story The Birthday Gift (Dark Eden Press) encompasses all of the above.


Why do you write?

Writing and art have been my primary creative outlets since I was very young. Just the other week, my mother showed me a box she kept of the little French books I wrote and illustrated in grade school. They’re too cute!
Now I write because I love to build characters, throw them into situations and see what the end up doing. It’s a weird and wonderful feeling when a story comes through you and not from you.

What are you writing now?

I’m just finishing up an erotic fairy tale. It’s the darkest work I’ve written to date. Deeply psychological and swimming with symbolism. I just love it!


What kind of clothes do you like to wear?

Depends on where I am. When I’m at home I wear frilly, sexy, feminine clothes. When I leave the house, I dress almost like a boy. Strange, right?


Are you in love? Have you ever been?

I’ve been head over heels for a beautiful man who should have resisted me but couldn’t. Maybe I’ll write a book about it some day.

Do you have a dream lover – and what does he look like?

I swoon for my fellow Canadian, Leonard Cohen. His smoky voice keeps me warm at night. That charmer Cary Grant is up there too. Oh, and I have a huge crush on Professor Snape from Harry Potter.
Ultimately, I’m a sucker for the baldies. I like a highly intelligent older man with an athletic physique and a voice to die for. Patrick Stewart comes to mind…

What kind of comfort food do you like best?

Any combination of cheese and chocolate is good. How about chocolate cheesecake? I’m a coffee addict with a tea habit on the side. Throw in some red wine, too. Oh, red wine and kettle chips. Yum yum!


What makes you laugh? Cry?

Storyteller Stuart McLean makes me laugh and cry on his radio show, The Vinyl Café. I’ve seen every episode of The Simpsons about forty times, but when I really want to laugh I’ll watch British comedies like Coupling. Hilarious!
Music makes me cry more than anything else. Particularly the “sail on silver girl” verse of Bridge over Troubled Waters. That gets me every time.

What do you do to amuse yourself when not working?

Everyone who knows me will tell you I’m a reader. There’s a little garden on my balcony that I try to keep alive. I also knit obsessively. Every day, I take my mp3 player for a walk through my local cemetery. It’s so peaceful there. I love to cook and bake as well.


What is it in a man or woman that turns you on? The clean version please!

The sexiest part of a man and a woman is the collarbone. There’s something very sensual about that shadow it creates. And a sharp mind makes anyone attractive, I find.

What do you hate about life?

I hate that we’ve been blessed with this beautiful planet and we seem to be doing everything we can to kill it. I’m a firm believer that every small effort helps, and that we can make a difference.

What do you hope to achieve in life and when will you know that you have been a success?

Oscar Wilde wrote, “something hidden away in my nature, like a treasure in a field, is Humility.” Living a simple and humble life is my greatest challenge, and would be my greatest achievement. When I’ve abandoned conceit, and when my life is devoted to helping others, I’ll be a success.

What are you going to write next?

I have more ideas than I can keep up with. There’s a historical romance percolating in the back of my mind. Foyle’s War has me itching to learn more about the roles women played in WWII.

Sacred Ground

Sacred Ground/Rita Karnopp/Eternal Press/ebook/126 pages

Brett Turner has mixed feelings towards his neighbour Willow Howling Moon. He blames her buffalo for his cows getting sick, but Willow insists that her herd doesn’t have brucellosis. Brett also dislikes the fact that his son likes to play with Willow’s son. As far as Willow is concerned, Sean is more welcome than his father. However, she admits he isn’t bad to look at, and despite his prejudice, Brett is physically drawn to the beautiful Indian woman. Whenever they meet they quarrel, but inevitably they are drawn together.

This book tells of dreams and legends; of the struggle to overcome fear and prejudice. Beautiful, tender and full of love, it tugs at the heartstrings. Five red roses, Anne

Interview With Rita Karnopp

Tell us a little about yourself


I have been writing for over fifteen years. Although I’m originally from Wisconsin, my husband and I have lived in Montana for the past thirty-two years. I’m drawn to the history of the Native American and I strive to bring alive the authenticity of a time past. When writing suspense or contemporary romance I enjoy bringing excitement and the enduring power of love to my stories. Watch for my upcoming releases: Sacred Ground in November 2007 and Wind Song, Dark Spirit, and Ransom Love, coming in 2008 from Eternal Press and also Whispering Sun with Uncial Press in 2008. When I’m not reading, writing or doing research, I enjoy making dream catchers, gold panning, crystal digging, rafting, fishing, canoeing, and spending time with my family. Please visit my website at www.ritaritr.com or my ‘myspace’ at www.myspace.com/ritakarnopp, www.eternapress.com and www.uncialpress.com.


What do you write? I love to write suspense, Indian historical romance. I also have a Native American ‘life goes full-circle’ type futuristic and a serial killer novel. Yikes… I haven’t settled down yet…and I would suspect I never will. I’m actually working on a ‘gypsy heroine during the holocaust.’


Why do you write? I write because I can’t stop the stories filling my head and demanding to be written!! It’s my passion! It’s my joy. It’s my dream.


What are you writing now? I’m actually working on rewrites and promoting! I have SACRED GROUND releasing in November 2007, and next year I have three books releasing with Eternal Press and one releasing with Uncial Press.


What kind of clothes do you like to wear? I love jeans and anything reflecting a Native American feel…feathers…beads…turquoise…I’m just a down to earth Montana girl. But I have to admit…I write in my silk Green Bay Packers lounging PJs with a matching tank top in the summer and flannel PJ sets in the winter with warm fuzzy socks! I never wear shoes unless I have to! But I do dress professional for my ‘daytime job’.


Are you in love? Have you ever been? I’m more in love now…than 34 years ago when I married my husband. He’s my best friend, my partner and my lover. He’s the best thing that has ever happened to me.

Do you have a dream lover – and what does he look like? I must admit my bald, soft kissing husband is my ‘dream lover’. If I were to pick someone other than hubby, I’d say Lou Diamond Phillips is a hunk as was Daniel Day-Lewis in THE LAST OF THE MOHICANS. My friends tease me they can’t believe I hadn’t married a Native American man!


What kind of comfort food do you like best? I’m a woman… chocolate covered cherries and a dry glass of Australian or South African chardonnay! My secret obsessions are Bottle Caps…but only the red ones! For a romantic night I like strawberries in champagne. If I’m going to be bad...or need something to crunch on while writing I like Doritos and a Pepsie, but I don’t do that often because of the calories and it’s not too good for me!


What makes you laugh? Cry? My children make me laugh as does my husband’s dry sense of humour. I love laughter. And I believe we should laugh no less than 30 times a day! I’m an extrovert and a woman with a positive attitude. I’d rather laugh than cry. Oh…cry? Well a ‘Kodak moment,’ a rose for no reason, a daughter or son getting married, writing an emotional scene in a book… need I say more?


What do you do to amuse yourself when not working? I work as an executive secretary, so when I’m not working I write! To unwind I love watching movies. I love to make dream catchers. I love to go crystal digging. I love floating the Missouri River on our raft…with hubby. I enjoy canoeing, fishing, camping. I love sitting around the camp fire with family…sharing stories and jokes.

What is it in a man or woman that turns you on? The clean version please!

I think it’s sexy when my husband surprises me with a deep kiss that makes me yearn for more. I find cooking with hubby a turn on. Watching a sexy, tender movie with lights down, candles lit and a glass of wine extremely a turn on!


What do you hate about life? I hate prejudices of any kind.

What do you hope to achieve in life and when will you know that you have been a success? My goal in life was to see my name on the cover of a book! I am a success already… the rest will be more than I’ve ever hoped for. I feel extremely blessed in life.


What are you going to write next? I have a drive that keeps pushing me to write TANGO OF DEATH (TANGO FUN TOYT) – a gypsy story during the holocaust.